Beat Teacher Burnout!

Hosted by Rowena Hicks

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Aug 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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August 14, 2026Episode 9326 min

How Nursery Leaders Can Prevent Burnout, Wellbeing & Leadership

Burnout in early years leadership rarely comes from one big problem. It can build through staff shortages, recruitment pressures, increasing responsibilities, Ofsted expectations and the constant pressure to support your team while keeping a nursery running. In this episode of Beat Teacher Burnout , I’m joined by Tracey Hughes , a regional manager with extensive experience in early years leadership, who currently oversees 15 nursery settings. Tracey shares her journey from nursery nurse to regional manager and offers an honest insight into the challenges facing nursery leaders today. We explore staff shortages, team wellbeing, workplace culture and why leaders need support too. Tracey explains how sharing resources, developing an in-house agency and creating a strong culture can help teams manage pressure and maintain morale. We also explore the importance of reflective leadership and coaching , including why room leaders need the right support and training to become confident leaders themselves. Most importantly, this conversation highlights why effective leadership isn't about doing everything yourself. It's about creating a culture where people feel supported, valued and able to ask for help. In this episode, we discuss: The biggest challenges facing nursery and early years leaders Staff shortages, wellbeing and building a supportive workplace culture Reflective leadership, coaching and developing confident room leaders Why asking for help is a strength, not a weakness If you work in early years, nursery leadership or education and you're feeling stretched or overwhelmed, this episode offers practical insights into leading well while protecting your team's wellbeing. If you found this episode helpful, follow Beat Teacher Burnout for more honest conversations about educator wellbeing, leadership and preventing burnout. ____ Connect with Tracy Hughes: Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/tracy-hughes Email: tracyhughes2000@aol.com ✨ Get your The 40 day challenge Journal here: Build the habits, mindset and energy to become your best self : https://amzn.to/3Ptd8jQ ✨ Follow Rowena: 👉Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rowenaphicks 👉Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Teach-Flourish-Thrive-Beat-Teacher-Burnout/61552987182926 👉LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rowenaphicks 👉Website: https://www.rowenahicks.com — Subscribe to the Beat Teacher Burnout Podcast 🎧 New episodes drop bi weekly to help you reduce stress, prevent burnout, and lead with clarity and energy. Listen here on: 👉Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1 👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571 👉Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorRowenaHicks/ — Looking for Rowena’s books? Explore all books here: 👉 https://www.rowenahicks.com/books Buy on Amazon: 👉The Burnout-Busting Teachers' Journal: https://amzn.to/3Ar6piV 👉 Teach, Flourish, Thrive: Break Free From Burnout : https://amzn.eu/d/0NCDubg Not sure where to start, book a consultation call with Rowena here: https://calendar.app.google/y1D862D8SFpDHAz67

July 31, 2026Episode 9228 min

Why Teachers Burn Out | Guilt, Stress & Learning to Thrive

Burnout rarely happens overnight. For many teachers, school leaders and early years professionals, it builds quietly through relentless pressure, impossible expectations and the belief that caring more means doing more. In this episode of Beat Teacher Burnout , I’m joined by Dr Jane Todd , former teacher, school leader, lecturer and nursery owner, for an honest conversation about the hidden emotional cost of working in education. Jane shares her personal journey from thriving in leadership to experiencing burnout and physical collapse. Together, we explore why so many educators struggle to switch off, why guilt makes setting boundaries feel impossible and how perfectionism can slowly erode wellbeing, confidence and relationships. This isn't a conversation about doing less. It's about creating a more sustainable way of working, so you can continue making a difference without sacrificing your wellbeing. Whether you're a teacher, nursery practitioner, school leader or anyone working in education, this episode will help you recognise the warning signs of burnout and remind you that looking after yourself isn't selfish. It's one of the most important things you can do. In this episode, we discuss: Why burnout develops gradually and the warning signs to look out for How guilt, perfectionism and people pleasing keep educators trapped Practical ways to set healthy boundaries and protect your wellbeing What it takes to build a sustainable, fulfilling career in education If this episode resonates with you, please follow, rate and share Beat Teacher Burnout . Every review helps more educators discover practical conversations that support wellbeing, prevent burnout and help people thrive in education. ____ Connect with Jane Todd: Website: janetodd.co.uk Instagram: www.instagram.com/early_years_jane Facebook: www.facebook.com/jane.todd.165 Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/dr-jane-todd ✨ Get your The 40 day challenge Journal here: Build the habits, mindset and energy to become your best self : https://amzn.to/3Ptd8jQ ✨ Follow Rowena: 👉Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rowenaphicks 👉Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Teach-Flourish-Thrive-Beat-Teacher-Burnout/61552987182926 👉LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rowenaphicks 👉Website: https://www.rowenahicks.com — Subscribe to the Beat Teacher Burnout Podcast 🎧 New episodes drop bi weekly to help you reduce stress, prevent burnout, and lead with clarity and energy. Listen here on: 👉Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1 👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571 👉Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorRowenaHicks/ — Looking for Rowena’s books? Explore all books here: 👉 https://www.rowenahicks.com/books Buy on Amazon: 👉The Burnout-Busting Teachers' Journal: https://amzn.to/3Ar6piV 👉 Teach, Flourish, Thrive: Break Free From Burnout : https://amzn.eu/d/0NCDubg Not sure where to start, book a consultation call with Rowena here: https://calendar.app.google/y1D862D8SFpDHAz67

July 17, 2026Episode 9126 min

Burnout, Boundaries & Being Present with Angelica Celinska

What if burnout doesn't begin when you feel exhausted? What if it starts much earlier, when being constantly busy becomes your normal? In this episode of Beat Teacher Burnout , I sit down with Angelica Celinska to explore why so many educators, school leaders and early years professionals find it difficult to slow down, switch off and truly look after themselves. Together, we talk about the hidden signs of burnout, the pressure to always keep going and why putting yourself last can quietly become a habit. Angelica shares her own experiences and practical insights into creating healthier boundaries, becoming more present and recognising that caring for yourself isn't selfish - it's essential. This is an honest conversation about what it really means to thrive in education, not just survive. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, carrying the weight of leadership or simply wondering why it's become so hard to switch off, I hope this episode reminds you that your wellbeing matters too. In this episode, we explore: Why burnout often develops gradually rather than all at once The hidden emotional load carried by educators How boundaries protect both your wellbeing and your effectiveness Why being present is one of the greatest gifts we can give ourselves and others Practical reflections to help you protect your energy without losing your passion If this conversation resonates with you, I'd love you to follow the podcast, leave a review and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. Together, we can help create a healthier, more sustainable future for everyone working in education. ____ Connect with Angelica Celinska: Website: thevoiceofearlychildhood.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/thevoiceofearlychildhood Spotify: ⁠ open.spotify.com/show/2kXHzjEqapUCAjOHQinh7m Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/the-voice-of-early-childhood www.linkedin.com/in/angelicacelinska Youtube: www.youtube.com/@TheVoiceofEarlyChildhood ✨ Get your The 40 day challenge Journal here: Build the habits, mindset and energy to become your best self : https://amzn.to/3Ptd8jQ ✨ Follow Rowena: 👉Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rowenaphicks 👉Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Teach-Flourish-Thrive-Beat-Teacher-Burnout/61552987182926 👉LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rowenaphicks 👉Website: https://www.rowenahicks.com — Subscribe to the Beat Teacher Burnout Podcast 🎧 New episodes drop bi weekly to help you reduce stress, prevent burnout, and lead with clarity and energy. Listen here on: 👉Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1 👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571 👉Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorRowenaHicks/ — Looking for Rowena’s books? Explore all books here: 👉 https://www.rowenahicks.com/books Buy on Amazon: 👉The Burnout-Busting Teachers' Journal: https://amzn.to/3Ar6piV 👉 Teach, Flourish, Thrive: Break Free From Burnout : https://amzn.eu/d/0NCDubg Not sure where to start, book a consultation call with Rowena here: https://calendar.app.google/y1D862D8SFpDHAz67

July 3, 2026Episode 9027 min

What if the environment around you is affecting your wellbeing more than you realise?

In this episode of Beat Teacher Burnout , educator, Montessori specialist and spaces expert Lucy Gibson shares why stress isn't always about workload. Sometimes it's the pace we live at, the spaces we spend time in and the expectations we place on ourselves that quietly drain our energy. Lucy reflects on her journey from Brazil to the UK and explains how embracing change, slowing down and creating calm, intentional environments can transform the way we live and work. Together, we explore why resilience isn't about constantly pushing through, but about recognising what helps us thrive. Whether you're a teacher, school leader, nursery practitioner, parent or simply feeling overwhelmed by the demands of everyday life, this conversation is full of practical ideas to help you create more balance, protect your wellbeing and reconnect with what matters most. In this episode, we explore : Why your environment plays such an important role in wellbeing Building resilience through periods of uncertainty and change The benefits of slowing down in a fast-paced world How nature can support mental wellbeing Creating calmer spaces for ourselves and the children we support Living with greater purpose, gratitude and balance If you enjoyed this episode, please follow Beat Teacher Burnout , leave a review and share it with someone who could benefit from the conversation. Your support helps more educators and professionals discover practical ways to reduce stress, prevent burnout and thrive both at work and beyond. ____ Connect with Lucy Gibson: Website: positivelysimple.org. Instagram: www.instagram.com/positivelysimple.uk Spotify: ⁠ open.spotify.com/show/0EH7FtkOvrUqLnenA2uwNn Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/positivelysimple Youtube: www.youtube.com/@Institute_Montessori_Training ✨ Get your The 40 day challenge Journal here: Build the habits, mindset and energy to become your best self : h ttps://amzn.to/3Ptd8jQ ✨ Follow Rowena: 👉Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rowenaphicks 👉Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Teach-Flourish-Thrive-Beat-Teacher-Burnout/61552987182926 👉LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rowenaphicks 👉Website: https://www.rowenahicks.com — Subscribe to the Beat Teacher Burnout Podcast 🎧 New episodes drop bi weekly to help you reduce stress, prevent burnout, and lead with clarity and energy. Listen here on: 👉Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1 👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571 👉Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorRowenaHicks/ — Looking for Rowena’s books? Explore all books here: 👉 https://www.rowenahicks.com/books Buy on Amazon: The Burnout-Busting Teachers' Journal: 👉 https://amzn.to/3Ar6piV Teach, Flourish, Thrive: Break Free From Burnout : 👉 https://amzn.eu/d/0NCDubg Not sure where to start, book a consultation call with Rowena here: https://calendar.app.google/y1D862D8SFpDHAz67

June 19, 2026Episode 8929 min

Teacher Burnout: What Ross McGill Wishes Every Educator Knew

What happens when one of education's most respected voices admits that he nearly burned out? In this episode of Beat Teacher Burnout, I sit down with Ross McGill, founder of Teacher Toolkit, to explore the reality of teaching in a profession that asks so much of the people within it. Ross shares the personal experiences that shaped his career, from working unsustainable hours and navigating redundancy to reflecting on the pressures that many educators now see as simply "part of the job". Together, we discuss why stress has become normalised in education, what happens when work begins to consume every part of life, and why so many dedicated professionals struggle to recognise the difference they're making. This is an honest conversation about workload, wellbeing, resilience and the challenge of sustaining a career in education without sacrificing yourself along the way. Whether you're a teacher, school leader, SENCO, nursery practitioner or anyone supporting children and young people, you'll find practical insights, reassurance and a powerful reminder that looking after yourself isn't separate from your work, it's part of it. In this episode, we explore : The hidden cost of teacher burnout Why workload isn't the whole story The pressure of accountability and inspections Creating healthier boundaries between work and home Recognising your impact when you're feeling overwhelmed What schools can do to better support staff wellbeing How to build a sustainable career in education If this conversation resonates with you, follow Beat Teacher Burnout and share this episode with a colleague who needs to hear it. Because education needs great teachers. Great teachers need support. Connect with Ross Morrison McGill : Website: www.teachertoolkit.co.uk Instagram: ⁠ www.instagram.com/teachertoolkit Facebook: ⁠ www.facebook.com/TeacherToolkit Linkedin: uk.linkedin.com/company/teachertoolkitofficial Youtube: www.youtube.com/@TeacherToolkit ✨ Get your The 40 day challenge Journal here: Build the habits, mindset and energy to become your best self : https://amzn.to/3Ptd8jQ ✨ Follow Rowena: 👉Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rowenaphicks 👉Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Teach-Flourish-Thrive-Beat-Teacher-Burnout/61552987182926 👉LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rowenaphicks 👉Website: https://www.rowenahicks.com — Subscribe to the Beat Teacher Burnout Podcast 🎧 New episodes drop bi weekly to help you reduce stress, prevent burnout, and lead with clarity and energy. Listen here on: 👉Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1 👉 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571 👉Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@AuthorRowenaHicks/ — Looking for Rowena’s books? Explore all books here: 👉 https://www.rowenahicks.com/books Buy on Amazon: 👉The Burnout-Busting Teachers' Journal: https://amzn.to/3Ar6piV 👉 Teach, Flourish, Thrive: Break Free From Burnout : https://amzn.eu/d/0NCDubg Not sure where to start, book a consultation call with Rowena here: https://calendar.app.google/y1D862D8SFpDHAz67

June 5, 2026Episode 8829 min

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 Episode What supervision is and how it differs from coaching Why leader wellbeing impacts children and young people The connection between empathy, caring, and burnout Why shame often prevents people from seeking support How healthy workplace cultures support wellbeing Why creativity thrives when people feel trusted How to recognise the early signs of burnout Practical ways to resource yourself during challenging times Key Message Burnout 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.uk Instagram: ⁠ www.instagram.com/talkingheadsoak⁠ Facebook:⁠ www.facebook.com/TalkingHeadsOak Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/talkingheadssupervision Follow Rowena: Instagram: www.instagram.com/rowenaphicks Facebook: www.facebook.com/people/Teach-Flourish-Thrive-Beat-Teacher-Burnout/61552987182926 LinkedIn: 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/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571 — Looking for Rowena’s books?Explore all books here: www.rowenahicks.com/books Buy 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

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 culture How psychological safety improves wellbeing and performance The difference between token wellbeing and real structural change How reducing small tasks can significantly lower workload Why collaboration across schools creates stronger support systems How technology and AI can help reduce cognitive load and pressure Key Message Thriving 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/thestouracademytrust Youtube: www.youtube.com/@TheStourAcademyTrust Linkedin: 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/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/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571 — Looking for Rowena’s books?Explore all books here: www.rowenahicks.com/books Buy 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

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 Episode Why we often rely on adrenaline to get through the school day How different school cultures shape our experience of stress What “quiet erosion” of burnout looks like over time The hidden emotional load we carry as teachers and leaders Why so many of us question whether we’re “good enough” How constant pressure and unpredictability impact us Key Message Burnout 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 Collin Website : develop2teach.com/insights-with-paul Instagram : @develop2teach LinkedIn: Paul Collin Follow Rowena: Instagram: www.instagram.com/rowenaphicks Facebook: www.facebook.com/people/Teach-Flourish-Thrive-Beat-Teacher-Burnout/61552987182926 LinkedIn: 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/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571 — Looking for Rowena’s books?Explore all books here: www.rowenahicks.com/books Buy 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

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 Episode Why roles like SENCO can feel both rewarding and overwhelming How burnout builds slowly, even when you love your job The impact of constant pressure on confidence and self-belief Why reflection is missing in many school cultures How connection and shared experiences reduce isolation The importance of recognising what you’ve done, not just what’s left Why boundaries are essential (and what happens without them) How to spot when passion is starting to fade Key Message Burnout 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.com Instagram : www.instagram.com/becsdawson Follow Rowena: Instagram: www.instagram.com/rowenaphicks Facebook: www.facebook.com/people/Teach-Flourish-Thrive-Beat-Teacher-Burnout/61552987182926 LinkedIn: 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/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571 — Looking for Rowena’s books?Explore all books here: www.rowenahicks.com/books Buy 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

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 powerful Key Message Wellbeing 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.com Instagram : www.instagram.com/mortonmichelinsurance Linkedin : www.linkedin.com/company/morton-michel-insurance Connect with minime mindfulness: Website : minimemindfulness.co.uk Facebook : www.facebook.com/minimemindfulness Instagram : www.instagram.com/minimemindfulness Linkedin : www.linkedin.com/company/minimemindfulness Follow 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/2unYCtcA81Qi5coaLZ22H1 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beat-teacher-burnout/id1731803571 — Looking for Rowena’s books?Explore all books here: www.rowenahicks.com/books Buy 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