In Episode 366 of the Energetic Radio Podcast, hosts Dale Sidebottom and Paul Campbell welcome Craig Randall, a global educator, consultant, and pizza enthusiast, to the show. Craig has served as a teacher and principal around the world, in Asia, the Middle East, South America, and beyond, bringing unique cultural and leadership insights to the field of education.

The conversation kicks off with Craig sharing his signature pizza recipe (think Mediterranean flavours on a pesto base!) before diving deep into a topic central to his professional mission: building trust in schools and beyond.

Craig unpacks the philosophy behind his work, “Trust-Based Observations,” a groundbreaking system designed to shift teacher observations and feedback from deficit-based to strengths-based, ultimately fostering an environment where trust and genuine growth flourish. He highlights practical strategies for building trust, such as focusing on strengths, asking meaningful questions, conducting observations in a teacher’s own classroom, and delaying feedback until a trusting relationship is built.

Key topics and takeaways include:

The Power of Trust: Why trust is hard to build and easy to lose; essential habits for leaders and coaches.
Trust-Based Observations in Action: How unannounced, strengths-based observations, combined with reflective conversations, lower vulnerability and inspire risk-taking and innovation among teachers.
Transferable Wisdom: How the same principles can transform parenting, sports coaching, and business relationships anywhere trust and growth are essential.
Lessons from Global Education: Craig’s reflections on teaching and leading in international schools, the impact of cultural context, and why global experiences shaped him and his family.
Personal Insights: Craig’s own relationship with trust, how he’s built it, where he’s been burnt, and why empathy and forgiveness matter.
Advice for Educators: Why leading with kindness, building relationships, and prioritising play aren’t just nice; they’re necessary for learning and innovation.

From inspiring metaphors (think “trust marbles in a jar”) to transformative, practical steps, this episode is packed with insights for educators, coaches, parents, and leaders at every level.

Resources & Links:

Find Craig Randall and learn more about Trust-Based Observations at trustbase.com