Beat Teacher Burnout!

Hosted by Rowena Hicks

Business Education

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Jun 2026

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Burnout is NOT OK! Every episode of The Beat Teacher Burnout Podcast is filled with the motivation and strategies you need plus deeply personal stories, relatable topics and research-backed advice to help you become the best version of you to overcome the overwhelm and burnout in order to thrive!

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June 5, 2026Episode 8829 min

EP : 88 Kindness Leads to Burnout

In this episode of Beat Teacher Burnout, I sit down with Lisa Lea-Weston from Talking Heads Supervision to explore the connection between leadership, wellbeing, and burnout.Together, we discuss what supervision really is and why it offers something different from coaching. We explore how having a dedicated space to reflect can help leaders process the emotional weight they carry and ultimately support the children and young people they serve more effectively.A major theme throughout the conversation is burnout and the shame that often surrounds it. We talk openly about how many leaders continue pushing through exhaustion because they care deeply about their work, their teams, and the people they support.We also explore the reality that we do not leave our personal lives at the school gate. Life events, stress, loss, illness, and emotional challenges all impact how we show up at work, and pretending otherwise can come at a significant cost.Another important focus is workplace culture. We discuss the kinds of environments that allow people to thrive, where honest conversations are encouraged, support is available, and people feel able to ask for what they need. We also explore how creativity, collaboration, and innovation flourish when people are trusted to learn from mistakes rather than fear them.Throughout the episode, we reflect on the importance of self-awareness, recognising the early signs of stress, and understanding why those who care the most are often the people most vulnerable to burnout.Finally, we share practical ways to reconnect with ourselves during difficult periods, including the role of nature, gratitude, connection, and finding moments of joy in everyday life.Overall, this is a compassionate and thought-provoking conversation about leadership, wellbeing, empathy, and creating healthier ways of working.What You'll Hear in This EpisodeWhat supervision is and how it differs from coachingWhy leader wellbeing impacts children and young peopleThe connection between empathy, caring, and burnoutWhy shame often prevents people from seeking supportHow healthy workplace cultures support wellbeingWhy creativity thrives when people feel trustedHow to recognise the early signs of burnoutPractical ways to resource yourself during challenging timesKey MessageBurnout doesn't happen because people don't care.Often, it happens because they care deeply and continue giving long after their own resources have been depleted.When we create space for honest reflection, recognise the signs of overwhelm, and allow ourselves to seek support, we are better able to care for ourselves, our teams, and the people who rely on us every day.Connect with Lisa Lea-Weston:Website: talkingheadssupervision.co.ukInstagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/talkingheadsoak⁠Facebook:⁠ www.facebook.com/TalkingHeadsOakLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/talkingheadssupervisionFollow Rowena:Instagram: www.instagram.com/rowenaphicksFacebook: www.facebook.com/people/Teach-Flourish-Thrive-Beat-Teacher-Burnout/61552987182926LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rowenaphicks Website: www.rowenahicks.com—Subscribe to the Beat Teacher Burnout Podcast 🎧New episodes drop fortnightly to help you reduce stress, prevent burnout, and lead with clarity and energy.Listen here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571—Looking for Rowena’s books?Explore all books here: www.rowenahicks.com/booksBuy on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D2JJGG3T?ref=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_4SZ8663Z8DRGAT03NZA8&ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_4SZ8663Z8DRGAT03NZA8&language=en-GB&skipTwisterOG=2—If you’re ready for gentle, practical support that fits into real school life, explore my courses here:👉www.rowenahicks.com/courses

May 22, 2026Episode 8732 min

EP : 87 Why Most Wellbeing Strategies Fail (And What This Trust Did Instead)

In this episode of Beat Teacher Burnout, we explore what it truly looks like to create a school culture where not only children, but staff, leaders, and families are all able to thrive.Leaders from the Stour Academy Trust share the intentional changes they’ve made over time to build environments where people feel supported, trusted, and able to do their jobs well without becoming overwhelmed. What stands out throughout the conversation is that this culture wasn’t created overnight. It has been shaped through years of listening, reflection, collaboration, and a willingness to challenge “the way things have always been done.”A major theme running through the episode is belonging. Not as a buzzword or a one-off initiative, but as something embedded into the everyday experience of staff, children, and families. The conversation also explores the importance of psychological safety and the impact it has on both wellbeing and performance.Another key focus is workload. Rather than relying on surface-level wellbeing gestures, the trust has looked closely at systems, policies, and routines to remove unnecessary pressure wherever possible. We also discuss the power of collaboration without competition. Schools across the trust work together, sharing expertise, resources, and responsibilities so that staff feel supported rather than stretched. One standout idea is the “9 to 3 approach” prioritising being fully present for children and staff during the school day, while streamlining behind-the-scenes tasks to reduce cognitive overload.Overall, this conversation offers a practical and hopeful look at what’s possible when schools prioritise trust, belonging, collaboration, and sustainable ways of working.What You’ll Hear in This Episode:Why belonging is central to a thriving school cultureHow psychological safety improves wellbeing and performanceThe difference between token wellbeing and real structural changeHow reducing small tasks can significantly lower workloadWhy collaboration across schools creates stronger support systemsHow technology and AI can help reduce cognitive load and pressureKey MessageThriving schools don’t happen by chance.They are built through intentional culture, honest conversations, and the courage to rethink what isn’t working.When leaders truly listen, reduce unnecessary pressure, and create space for people to feel safe and valued, something shifts…Not just in staff wellbeing, but in the experience of every child in the school.Connect with The Stour Academy Trust :Website: https://thestouracademytrust.org.uk/Facebook- www.facebook.com/thestouracademytrust/Instagram: www.instagram.com/thestouracademytrustYoutube: www.youtube.com/@TheStourAcademyTrustLinkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/the-stour-academy-trust/Follow Rowena:Instagram: www.instagram.com/rowenaphicks/Facebook: www.facebook.com/people/Teach-Flourish-Thrive-Beat-Teacher-Burnout/61552987182926/LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/rowenaphicksWebsite: www.rowenahicks.com—Subscribe to the Beat Teacher Burnout Podcast 🎧New episodes drop fortnightly to help you reduce stress, prevent burnout, and lead with clarity and energy.Listen here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571—Looking for Rowena’s books?Explore all books here:www.rowenahicks.com/booksBuy on Amazon:https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D2JJGG3T?ref=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_4SZ8663Z8DRGAT03NZA8&ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_4SZ8663Z8DRGAT03NZA8&language=en-GB&skipTwisterOG=2—If you’re ready for gentle, practical support that fits into real school life, explore my courses here:👉www.rowenahicks.com/courses

May 8, 2026Episode 8627 min

EP : 86 How Burnout Silently Creeps Up On School Leadership

In this episode of Beat Teacher Burnout, I’m joined by Paul Collin, a former head teacher with over 25 years in education, for a really honest conversation about something many of us experience but don’t always name…running on adrenaline.We explore what it means to show up every day in schools, even when we’re carrying stress behind the scenes. As teachers and leaders,we often feel we have to keep going, keep performing, and keep supporting everyone else, no matter how we’re actually feeling.One idea that really stands out in this episode is what we describe as quiet erosion. We talk about the image of the White Cliffs of Dover, slowly wearing away over time. And in many ways, that’s what burnout can look like. It doesn’t always happen all at once. It builds gradually, through constant pressure, unspoken stress, and the expectation to always be “on.”We also reflect on how different school cultures shape our experience. We’ve both seen environments where pressure feels relentless, where expectations are compressed and people feel constantly stretched. But we’ve also seen what happens when trust builds, when people feel heard, and when the culture begins to shift in a more supportive direction.Paul shares what leadership really feels like behind the scenes: the unpredictability, the constant decision-making, and those moments where adrenaline takes over just to get through the day. And while that can help us cope in the moment, we also recognise the longer-term impact it can have.We spend time talking about something many of us wrestle with: are we good enough? When our days are filled with challenges, complaints, and things going wrong, it’s easy to measure ourselves against those moments rather than the difference we’re actually making.Importantly, we also talk about how we begin to step back before things reach a breaking point. For us, that starts with noticing. It’s about grounding ourselves, creating moments of pause, and finding people we trust to talk things through with.At its core, this episode is about recognising that burnout isn’t always obvious. Sometimes it’s quiet, gradual and easy to ignore…until it catches up with us.What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeWhy we often rely on adrenaline to get through the school dayHow different school cultures shape our experience of stressWhat “quiet erosion” of burnout looks like over timeThe hidden emotional load we carry as teachers and leadersWhy so many of us question whether we’re “good enough”How constant pressure and unpredictability impact usKey MessageBurnout doesn’t always come from not caring.Often, it comes from caring deeply, for a long time, without enough space to pause.When we give ourselves permission to step back, to talk and to reflect, we begin to protect not just our wellbeing, but our ability to keep doing the work that matters to us.Connect with Paul CollinWebsite : develop2teach.com/insights-with-paulInstagram : @develop2teachLinkedIn: Paul CollinFollow Rowena:Instagram: www.instagram.com/rowenaphicksFacebook: www.facebook.com/people/Teach-Flourish-Thrive-Beat-Teacher-Burnout/61552987182926LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rowenaphicksWebsite: www.rowenahicks.com—Subscribe to the Beat Teacher Burnout Podcast 🎧New episodes drop fortnightly to help you reduce stress, prevent burnout, and lead with clarity and energy.Listen here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571—Looking for Rowena’s books?Explore all books here:www.rowenahicks.com/booksBuy on Amazon:https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D2JJGG3T?ref=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_4SZ8663Z8DRGAT03NZA8&ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_4SZ8663Z8DRGAT03NZA8&language=en-GB&skipTwisterOG=2—If you’re ready for gentle, practical support that fits into real school life, explore my courses here:👉www.rowenahicks.com/courses

April 24, 2026Episode 8529 min

EP : 85 When Passion Meets Burnout: Finding Your Way Back with Becky Dawson

In this episode of Beat Teacher Burnout, I’m joined by Becky Dawson, National Wellbeing Lead at Twinkl, for an honest conversation about how a passion for teaching can slowly turn into overwhelm.Becky shares her journey from classroom teaching into the demanding role of SENCO, a position that is both deeply meaningful and incredibly heavy. Supporting students, staff and families all at once, often without time to reflect, can quietly build into burnout.What stands out is a tension many educators feel: loving the work and seeing the impact, yet carrying pressure that becomes unsustainable. Becky describes this period as both the best and the hardest of her career, a time of growth, but also where burnout became unavoidable.Together, we explore why this happens. Not just because the job is demanding, but because of the culture around it, constant doing, high expectations, and little space to pause. Becky highlights the importance of reflection, not as an extra task, but as part of everyday practice. Even small moments to acknowledge what’s been hard can make a real difference.We also discuss how burnout affects confidence, and how the things that go wrong often linger more than the wins. Sometimes, it’s not about doing more, but recognising that the system itself asks too much.Becky shares simple, realistic ways to protect your wellbeing, building connections, creating space to reflect, setting boundaries, and even keeping a “to-da list” to recognise what you’ve already achieved.At its core, this episode is about reclaiming balance. Passion doesn’t have to lead to burnout, but without support, boundaries and reflection, it often does. And the most important reminder: you’re not failing, you’re navigating a system that often asks too much.What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeWhy roles like SENCO can feel both rewarding and overwhelmingHow burnout builds slowly, even when you love your jobThe impact of constant pressure on confidence and self-beliefWhy reflection is missing in many school culturesHow connection and shared experiences reduce isolationThe importance of recognising what you’ve done, not just what’s leftWhy boundaries are essential (and what happens without them)How to spot when passion is starting to fadeKey MessageBurnout doesn’t happen because you don’t care.It often happens because you care too much, for too long, without the support you need.When we create space to reflect, connect with others,and set clear boundaries around our time and energy,we give ourselves a chance to keep doing the work we love,without losing ourselves in the process.Connect with Becky Dawson:Website : www.beckydawsonccf.comInstagram : www.instagram.com/becsdawsonFollow Rowena:Instagram: www.instagram.com/rowenaphicksFacebook: www.facebook.com/people/Teach-Flourish-Thrive-Beat-Teacher-Burnout/61552987182926LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rowenaphicksWebsite: www.rowenahicks.com—Subscribe to the Beat Teacher Burnout Podcast 🎧New episodes drop fortnightly to help you reduce stress, prevent burnout, and lead with clarity and energy.Listen here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571—Looking for Rowena’s books?Explore all books here:www.rowenahicks.com/booksBuy on Amazon:https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D2JJGG3T?ref=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_4SZ8663Z8DRGAT03NZA8&ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_4SZ8663Z8DRGAT03NZA8&language=en-GB&skipTwisterOG=2—If you’re ready for gentle, practical support that fits into real school life, explore my courses here:👉www.rowenahicks.com/courses

April 10, 2026Episode 8426 min

EP : 84 How to Prevent Teacher Burnout | Simple Daily Habits for Better Wellbeing

In this episode of Beat Teacher Burnout, I’m joined by Sue Lee and Tessa Hawes to explore what it really means to look after ourselves in high pressure environments.This conversation goes beyond stress. It’s about the responsibility we often overlook, caring for ourselves in the middle of busy, demanding lives. When we constantly give without refilling our energy, it takes its toll. Sue shares honest reflections from years in leadership, balancing career, family and constant pressure. Her story shows how easy it is to slip into urgency, where you keep going but slowly lose connection with yourself. Managing yourself isn’t an extra, it’s essential to leading and supporting others well. Tessa shares a powerful turning point that made her rethink how she was living and working. After years of juggling a fast paced career and motherhood, she realised something needed to change. She began building simple daily practices that helped her regain calm, clarity and control. Her message is clear, wellbeing starts with small, consistent actions. We explore how habits like journaling, gratitude and mindful mornings create meaningful, long term change. It’s not about perfect routines, but simple practices that fit real lives.A key theme is culture and connection. Having people who notice when you’re not okay, who encourage you to slow down and stay on track, makes a difference. We also reflect on how difficult it can be to recognise our own strengths. Without that awareness, it’s harder to sustain motivation, confidence and purpose. At its heart, this episode reminds us that wellbeing isn’t separate from our work, it’s what allows us to do it well. You cannot pour from an empty cup. But when you refill it, even in small ways, the impact goes far beyond you.What You’ll Hear in This Episode How personal wellbeing influences leadership, performance and team culture Why constant busyness disconnects us from ourselves How small, consistent habits create lasting change What it means to prioritise yourself without guilt The importance of a supportive network Why many professionals struggle to recognise their strengths How mindset, language and reflection shape daily experience Why simple practices like journaling and gratitude are powerfulKey MessageWellbeing is not something we add in when we have time. It is something we build into the way we live and work every day.Through small, intentional actions, honest reflection and supportive relationships, we can create a way of working that feels sustainable, not exhausting.Because when we take care of ourselves, we show up better for everyone else.Connect with Morton Michel:Website : www.mortonmichel.comInstagram : www.instagram.com/mortonmichelinsuranceLinkedin : www.linkedin.com/company/morton-michel-insuranceConnect with minime mindfulness:Website : minimemindfulness.co.ukFacebook : www.facebook.com/minimemindfulnessInstagram : www.instagram.com/minimemindfulnessLinkedin : www.linkedin.com/company/minimemindfulnessFollow Rowena:Instagram: www.instagram.com/rowenaphicksFacebook: www.facebook.com/people/Teach-Flourish-Thrive-Beat-Teacher-Burnout/61552987182926LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/rowenaphicksWebsite:www.rowenahicks.com—Subscribe to the Beat Teacher Burnout Podcast 🎧New episodes drop fortnightly to help you reduce stress, prevent burnout, and lead with clarity and energy.Listen here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571—Looking for Rowena’s books?Explore all books here:www.rowenahicks.com/booksBuy on Amazon:https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D2JJGG3T?ref=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_4SZ8663Z8DRGAT03NZA8&ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_4SZ8663Z8DRGAT03NZA8&language=en-GB&skipTwisterOG=2—If you’re ready for gentle, practical support that fits into real school life, explore my courses here:👉www.rowenahicks.com/courses

March 27, 2026Episode 8327 min

EP : 83 Creating a school Culture Where Staff Truly Belong, Thrive and Stay

In this episode of Beat Teacher Burnout, I’m joined by four members of the central team from Manor Hall Academy Trust to explore what it takes to build a thriving school culture.I speak with Philip Harrison (CEO), alongside Kate, Kelly and Laura, as they share honest reflections and practical examples of how their trust has created an environment where staff feel valued, heard and supported. At the heart of the conversation is a simple belief: when people feel they belong, they can learn, grow and flourish.We challenge the idea that positive school cultures happen by chance, highlighting that connection, trust and psychological safety require deliberate, consistent leadership. Their shared values that everyone belongs, learns and grows are not just words, but lived experiences shaping decisions, relationships and everyday practice.A clear theme is putting people before processes. From welcoming others warmly to encouraging openness and peer support, the focus stays on treating staff as human beings first. We also explore how leaders who model balance, vulnerability and authenticity help shift away from cultures of overwork and silent pressure.While recognising accountability pressures and workload, we discuss how leadership choices and systems can actively protect wellbeing. A strong focus is placed on prevention, investing in relationships and creating safe spaces for honest conversations.Ultimately, this episode shows that culture is built in everyday moments and reinforces a simple truth: when staff thrive, pupils thrive too.What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeHow clear, shared values can shape decisions and build a genuine sense of belongingWays to intentionally develop psychological safety through consistent leadership and open dialogueWhy small human moments such as warmth, humour and connection transform the workplaceHow leaders can model healthy work life balance and challenge cultures that glorify overworkThe importance of a proactive approach to wellbeing, focusing on prevention over crisisHow cross-team networks create safe spaces for conversation, shared experience and supportWhat trust-led leadership looks like when autonomy and outcomes are prioritisedHow to navigate external pressures by reframing accountability and reducing stressThe role of storytelling and recognising individuality in strengthening connectionKey MessageThriving school cultures do not happen by accident.They are built through deliberate choices, consistent actions and a deep commitment to seeing people as human beings.When we create environments rooted in trust, belonging and psychological safety, staff are more likely to stay and flourish.And when staff flourish, the impact on pupils is profound.Because sustainable education systems are built on people.Connect with Manor Hall Trust:Website : https://manorhall.academyFacebook : www.facebook.com/people/Manor-Hall-Academy-Trust/61553427158973/Instagram : www.instagram.com/manorhall.academy.trustLinkedin : www.linkedin.com/company/manor-hall-academy-trust/Follow Rowena:Instagram: www.instagram.com/rowenaphicksFacebook: www.facebook.com/people/Teach-Flourish-Thrive-Beat-Teacher-Burnout/61552987182926LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/rowenaphicksWebsite: www.rowenahicks.comSubscribe to the Beat Teacher Burnout Podcast 🎧New episodes drop fortnightly to help you reduce stress, prevent burnout and lead with clarity and energy.Listen here: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571Looking for Rowena’s books?Explore all books here: www.rowenahicks.com/booksBuy on Amazon: www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D2JJGG3T?ref=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_4SZ8663Z8DRGAT03NZA8&ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_4SZ8663Z8DRGAT03NZA8&language=en-GB&skipTwisterOG=2If you’re ready for gentle, practical support that fits into real school life, explore my courses here:👉 www.rowenahicks.com/courses

March 13, 2026Episode 8227 min

EP : 82 When Compassionate School Leadership Leads to Burnout

In this honest and reflective episode of Beat Teacher Burnout, I’m joined by education leader, coach and author Sarah Hussey to explore the hidden cost of caring deeply in school leadership.Sarah shares her journey in education, from beginning her career in the 1990s to becoming a headteacher committed to building a school culture based on compassion, trust and belonging. But alongside the passion for her work came growing pressure that many school leaders will recognise.The increasing demands of leadership, accountability systems and the emotional responsibility of supporting staff, pupils and families gradually began to take their toll. What started as exhaustion and rising stress eventually led to serious cardiac health events that forced Sarah to step away from the role she loved.This conversation isn’t about blaming education. Instead, it explores the human cost that can arise when compassionate leaders carry too much responsibility for too long.We talk openly about the emotional impact of leaving leadership due to burnout, the feelings of guilt and shame many educators experience, and the loss of identity that can follow when a role that once defined you suddenly ends.But this episode is also about hope.Sarah now supports teachers and school leaders to recognise the warning signs earlier, protect their wellbeing and continue leading with compassion without sacrificing their health.If you’re a teacher or school leader who cares deeply about your work and sometimes feels the weight of that responsibility, this conversation is for you.Because compassionate leadership is powerful but without boundaries, it can become unsustainable.What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeWhy burnout in education often develops slowly over timeThe impact of accountability and inspection pressures on leadersHow prolonged stress can affect physical healthWhy many educators feel shame when burnout forces them to step awayWhat compassion fatigue looks like in caring professionsThe importance of boundaries in school leadershipHow communication expectations changed after the pandemicWhy small moments of appreciation can transform school cultureThe importance of redefining what “good enough” leadership really meansKey MessageBurnout doesn’t happen because you are weak.It often happens because you cared deeply, gave generously and carried responsibility for too long without the support and recovery leadership requires.Compassion is one of the greatest strengths a leader can have.But sustainable leadership means extending that compassion to yourself as well.Connect with Sarah Hussey:Website: www.possibilitiesandperspectives.co.ukInstagram: www.instagram.com/possibilitiesandperspectiveFollow Rowena:Instagram: www.instagram.com/rowenaphicks/Facebook: www.facebook.com/people/Teach-Flourish-Thrive-Beat-Teacher-Burnout/61552987182926/LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/rowenaphicks/Website: www.rowenahicks.com/—Subscribe to the Beat Teacher Burnout Podcast 🎧New episodes drop fortnightly to help you reduce stress, prevent burnout, and lead with clarity and energy.Listen here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571Youtube: www.youtube.com/@AuthorRowenaHicks/—Looking for Rowena’s books?Explore all books here:www.rowenahicks.com/booksBuy on Amazon: www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D2JJGG3T?ref=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_4SZ8663Z8DRGAT03NZA8&ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_4SZ8663Z8DRGAT03NZA8&language=en-GB&skipTwisterOG=2—If you’re ready for gentle, practical support that fits into real school life, explore my courses here:👉www.rowenahicks.com/courses

February 27, 2026Episode 8129 min

EP : 81 Burnout Isn’t an Explosion. It’s an Erosion.

In this practical and thought-provoking episode of Beat Teacher Burnout, I’m joined by wellbeing consultant, author and former international principal Helen Kelly to explore one of the most significant yet overlooked drivers of burnout in education: the inability to properly switch off.We move beyond surface-level wellbeing advice and examine the neuroscience, psychology and leadership impact of psychological detachment from work.Helen shares findings from her survey of more than 500 school leaders, and the data is sobering. Only 14% regularly switch off in the evenings. Nearly half ruminate about work outside working hours. Many struggle to relax and feel guilty prioritising their own needs.Together, we explore why switching off is not indulgent or optional. It is essential for physical health, emotional regulation, sound decision-making, creativity and school culture. When leaders cannot switch off, the impact cascades.Helen introduces her PAUSE model, offering practical, research-informed micro-repairs that are small, realistic and sustainable.This episode is for teachers and leaders who lie awake replaying conversations, check emails before they’re fully awake, and want to feel energised rather than depleted.What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeWhy switching off regulates your hormonal stress response and strengthens resilienceHow emotional contagion means your mood influences your whole school communityWhy burnout is an erosion, not an explosionThe structural barriers within education that make switching off more difficultWhy micro-breaks of even 40 seconds make a measurable differenceHow beginning your day with non-work thoughts protects your mindsetPractical ways to create clearer boundaries around digital communicationWhy rumination keeps your nervous system activatedTechniques to interrupt overthinking, including structured task lists and intentional self-talkThe difference between family support and professional coachingWhy leadership effectiveness improves when wellbeing is safeguardedThe PAUSE ModelP – Protect Time Build micro-breaks into your day. Small resets reduce the need for longer recovery later.A – Anchor Your Day Create intentional start- and end-of-day rituals to strengthen work-home boundaries.U – Unplug Reduce constant accessibility and set clear expectations around digital communication.S – Still the Mind Use practical tools to reduce rumination and calm cognitive overload.E – Emotional Support Access coaching, supervision or professional support. Leaders need support too.Key MessageSwitching off isn’t selfish. It’s strategic.Burnout isn’t prevented by one long holiday, but by small, consistent repairs.Sustainable leadership isn’t endurance, it’s intentional recovery.If you want clarity and energy, it starts with learning how to truly detach.Pause. Reset. Protect the human as well as the leader.Connect with Helen Kelly:LinkedIn: Dr. Helen KellyFollow Rowena:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/rowenaphicksFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Teach-Flourish-Thrive-Beat-Teacher-Burnout/61552987182926LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rowena-hicks444Website: https://www.rowenahicks.comSubscribe to the Beat Teacher Burnout Podcast 🎧New episodes drop fortnightly to help you reduce stress, prevent burnout, and lead with clarity and energy.Listen here:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571—Looking for Rowena’s books?Explore all books here:https://www.rowenahicks.com/booksBuy on Amazon:https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D2JJGG3T?ref=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_4SZ8663Z8DRGAT03NZA8&ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_4SZ8663Z8DRGAT03NZA8&language=en-GB&skipTwisterOG=2—If you’re ready for gentle, practical support that fits into real school life, explore my courses here:👉https://www.rowenahicks.com/courses

February 13, 2026Episode 8019 min

EP : 80 Why So Many Capable Leaders Feel Trapped

In this honest and deeply reassuring episode of Beat Teacher Burnout, I’m joined by Greg Bookman, an education recruiter with over 20 years’ experience and a rare, people-first approach to leadership recruitment and retention.Rather than focusing on roles, hierarchies or career ladders, this conversation centres on well-being, identity and humanity in education. Greg shares what he sees behind the scenes when leaders and teachers reach breaking point and why so many capable, committed people are quietly considering leaving the profession altogether.We talk about burnout not as a weakness, but as a signal, one that often appears when people have lost sight of who they are, what they value and where they truly belong. Greg brings a compassionate and hopeful perspective, reminding us that education is not broken everywhere and that there are schools and trusts where people can thrive without sacrificing their health.This episode speaks directly to leaders and educators who feel exhausted, disillusioned or stuck, especially those questioning whether they can keep going, but still care deeply about the work they do.What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeWhy treating educators as people, not job titles, is key to retentionHow post-COVID shifts have changed what leaders need from workWhat burnout really does to confidence, identity and self-beliefWhat to say to yourself when you’re on survival mode and ready to quitHow school culture and values impact well-being more than workload aloneWhy appreciation and shared effort matter more than moneyThe fear and grief that often sit underneath thoughts of leaving educationHow reconnecting with your “why” can restore clarity and confidenceWhy reflection and self-awareness are protections against burnoutThe danger of suppressing your values in order to fit a roleHow finding the right school can change everything without leaving educationWhy staying silent and doing nothing is often the most damaging choiceKey MessageYou are not broken.Burnout is not the end.And leaving education is not the only option.Many educators burn out not because they don’t care enough, but because they care too much in environments that no longer allow them to be themselves. Confidence can be rebuilt. Purpose can be rediscovered. And with the right support, reflection and relationships, it is possible to find a role and a culture where you can thrive again.This episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and remember who you are beneath the pressure. To seek connection rather than isolation. And to believe that staying in education well is possible.Connect with Greg BookmanLinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/greg-bookmanWould you like to talk about coaching options? 1:1 sessions or group? Book a call here: https://calendly.com/rowenaphicks/30minFollow me on:1. Instagram: @rowenaphicks2. Facebook: Rowena Hicks3. Linked In: Rowena HicksEmail me: authorrowenahicks@gmail.com Visit my website for Books, Journals, Free Community and lots of other interesting stuff: www.rowenahicks.com

January 30, 2026Episode 7935 min

EP : 79 The Weight Leaders Carry and Why It Matters

In this thoughtful and deeply human episode of Beat Teacher Burnout, I’m joined by Dame Alison Peacock former headteacher and founding CEO of the Chartered College of Teaching to explore the realities of school leadership that are rarely spoken about openly.Alison describes headship as “both impossible and delightful,” a phrase that captures the tension so many leaders live with every day. Together, we reflect on the unpredictability of leadership, the emotional load leaders carry and the pressure created by inspection, accountability and constant readiness.This conversation moves beyond systems and structures and centres on people. We talk honestly about isolation in leadership, the myth of the heroic leader and how cultures of trust, collaboration and creativity are not optional extras; they are protective factors against burnout.Alison shares powerful reflections from her own headship, including leading a school in special measures, and how shifting from control to emancipating teachers rebuilt agency, energy and collective purpose.This episode is for school leaders, teachers and anyone in education who is holding responsibility alongside care and wondering how to do that without losing themselves in the process.What You’ll Hear in This EpisodeWhy school leadership feels both deeply rewarding and relentlessly demandingThe impact of constant unpredictability and emotional readiness on leadersHow inspection and accountability quietly shape leadership behaviourWhy anchoring leadership to a nobler purpose changes everythingThe hidden isolation many leaders experience and why it mattersWhy leadership is not about being the hero, but enabling othersWhat “emancipating teachers” looks like in practiceHow burnout begins with feeling unseen, unheard and disconnectedWhy valuing staff wellbeing is essential, not “soft” leadershipHow creativity protects against burnout and restores professional trustWhy school culture is shaped in small, everyday momentsWhat sustainable leadership really requires beyond enduranceKey MessageLeadership is not meant to be carried alone.Burnout is not a personal failure.Endurance is not the same as sustainability.When leadership is rooted in humanity, creativity and shared purpose, it becomes possible to protect both people and outcomes. The tension between heavy and hopeful, impossible and delightful, is not a sign that something is wrong, it is the reality of leading well.This episode is an invitation to lead with intention, connection and courage and to remember that how we lead matters just as much as what we lead.Connect with Dame Alison Peacock:LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/dame-alison-peacock-dl-dlitt-7b996b24 Would you like to talk about coaching options? 1:1 sessions or group? Book a call here: https://calendly.com/rowenaphicks/30minFollow me on:1. Instagram: @rowenaphicks2. Facebook: Rowena Hicks3. Linked In: Rowena HicksEmail me: authorrowenahicks@gmail.com Visit my website for Books, Journals, Free Community and lots of other interesting stuff: www.rowenahicks.com