This week’s episode is a powerful one. We sit down with Sarah Cowen, a former drama teacher who never planned to teach—until she fell in love with the profession. But after 18 years, she faced the realisation that her boundaries, well-being, and identity had been eroded over time.

Sarah’s story is one of deep reflection, empowerment, and transition. 

Now working as Head of Domestic Abuse Services, she shares:

✨ How she went from ‘accidental teacher’ to Mary Poppins of education, parachuting into struggling departments and making them thrive.

✨ The toxic relationship parallels between teaching and her work in domestic abuse advocacy.

✨ The exact moment she decided to leave—triggered by the now-famous Pit Pony video.

⏳ Why she once fantasised about being hospitalised for six months just to escape work.

This conversation is raw, honest, and so relatable for anyone who has ever normalised the unacceptable in teaching.

With thanks to Natalie Watkins of Pure Coaching Academy for sponsorship of this episode.  Find out more here: https://purecoachingacademy.com

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If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:

• Education Support
• The Samaritans
• Mind
• Andy's Man Club

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Thanks for listening 🙏

Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital R...