Care Without Burnout

In this episode, Donna interviews Jo Hall, a former NHS occupational therapist with over 33 years of experience. Jo shares her journey from clinical practice to senior leadership roles, including her time in commissioning for an Integrated Care Board (ICB). She discusses the challenges she faced after a life-changing breast cancer diagnosis and how it shifted her perspective on life and work.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Jo Hall's journey from a clinical role as an occupational therapist to a leadership position in commissioning highlights the diverse career paths available within public service. Her transition into running her own business demonstrates the potential for growth and change after a long career in the NHS.

Throughout her career, Jo emphasises the significance of effective communication and building rapport with patients and colleagues. These skills are essential not only in healthcare but also in organisational development and business.

Jo discusses the importance of being non-judgmental in her work, particularly when dealing with older adults. Respecting individuals' choices and understanding their unique perspectives is crucial in providing effective care and support.

After facing redundancy, Jo initially experienced feelings of rejection but ultimately recognised it as an opportunity to pursue her passion for coaching and business development. This shift in mindset illustrates the importance of embracing change and taking risks for personal and professional growth.

Jo's business, "Let's Get On With It," reflects her values of making a positive impact and helping others. She encourages individuals to align their careers with their personal values to find fulfilment and joy in their work.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think it was more by chance being asked and having people seeing an opportunity. I was always interested in bringing the junior people along."

"You think, 'I'll do that when I'm older,' and then something like that happens and suddenly you think, 'Well, I might not ever be older.'"

"I just couldn't find myself, I couldn't get back to being who I was. So I just really struggled and I have to say my mental health just went down the pan."

"It's almost that feeling of you've had this security for 30-something years, and now you're going into a world where you haven't got that security."

"I just think you should, even if it's talking to someone you've not spoken to for a long time or just going out and doing that nice thing that you want to do."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles. Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode, Donna speaks with Sam, a former public servant who transitioned from a career in teaching to becoming a successful business owner. Sam shares her incredible journey, starting from her time as a high school teacher in the mid-90s, her move to primary school, and the challenges she faced within the education system. She discusses how her background in karate instilled confidence and discipline, which proved invaluable in her teaching career and her subsequent entrepreneurial ventures. Sam reveals the pivotal moment that led her to leave the public sector and how she stumbled upon a unique business opportunity that allowed her to create a thriving swim school.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Sam transitioned from a public servant career as a school teacher to running her own successful business.

Sam's background as a national karate champion instilled in her a high level of discipline and confidence, which she effectively applied to both her teaching and her business endeavours.

Sam discusses the frustrations she experienced in the public education system, including a lack of recognition for hard work and a rigid structure that didn't allow for flexibility in teaching methods.

Beyond just a swim school, Sam has built a community at Ogden's Otters, offering various programs for different age groups, including classes for moms and babies, and a holiday club for children.

BEST MOMENTS

“I was the teacher that sorted everything out, but not being the teacher that was rewarded for it financially.”

"Primary school children a lot of them, they tend to still want to have a go, they'll get up and even though they can't do it straight away, they'll still get up and have a try. I'm not going to give up."

"You have to be [a] good [teacher] because these are little people who are going to be our future. So I needed to know that I was good at my job to make sure that I was doing right by our children's future.”

"You can work 20% harder in water than you can on land. It's a lot harder to move in water. It's great for when you're older because you've got no impact on your joints."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles. Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode, Donna interviews Naomi Morgan, a former psychology teacher turned coach, to discuss her transformative journey from the classroom to coaching. Naomi shares her experiences in education, the burnout she faced, and her decision to leave teaching behind to pursue a career in positive psychology and coaching. She reflects on the pressures within the education system, particularly the impact of aspirational grading on students' mental health, and emphasises the importance of building self-confidence and resilience.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

After 15 years as a psychology teacher, a significant career shift was made to coaching, driven by burnout and a desire for a better work-life balance. This transition involved retraining in positive psychology and coaching psychology.

During a challenging period in a teaching career, initiatives were taken to improve staff morale and connection within the school, highlighting the importance of community and support in high-pressure environments.

A core passion was identified in building students' self-confidence and resilience, particularly for those struggling academically. This focus on mental well-being was a driving force in the teaching career and continues to influence coaching practices.

The journey into coaching involved significant personal development, including overcoming self-doubt and building self-worth. This process was essential for successfully launching a coaching business and helping clients achieve their goals.

The coaching practice has evolved to focus on empowering women, addressing issues of self-confidence, self-worth, and undercharging. The aim is to help women recognise their value and potential, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in the world.

BEST MOMENTS

"I just thought, I don't want to be part of a system that does this to children, because I genuinely don't agree with it."

"I think all coaches can do this, but the more we can support people to see, to hold a mirror up to them so that they can see themselves more clearly and confidently."

"It's about being savvy like that. If there are aspects that are draining you like tech and admin, and you can get support on that."

"At some point your health is more important than the job, and you just push yourself. You're going to figure it out."

"Teaching's a tough job, it really is, and I know we get a bad rep as having all these holidays."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles. Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Today, Donna interviews Simon Woodward, a multi-award-winning executive director with a remarkable journey from a working-class background in Barnsley to a successful career in supply chain and procurement. Simon shares insights from his childhood, his decision to join the RAF, and the diverse roles he undertook during his military service, including intelligence work during the Gulf War.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The journey from military to civilian life can be enhanced by pursuing further education and qualifications. This commitment to learning can open doors to new opportunities and help overcome barriers in the job market.

Skills gained in the military, such as leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving, are highly transferable to civilian roles, particularly in logistics and supply chain management. These skills can lead to significant career advancements.

The ability to adapt to different environments and roles is crucial. Transitioning from military operations to civilian projects requires flexibility and a willingness to learn new systems and processes.

Understanding what is important in life, such as family and personal well-being, can guide career decisions. Acknowledging when it's time to move on from a role that no longer aligns with personal values or circumstances is essential for long-term satisfaction.

Engaging in projects that have a positive impact, such as working with the NHS during the pandemic or supporting the Ukrainian Ministry of Defence, can provide a sense of purpose and fulfilment in one's career.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think a couple of times I considered it, I just found it really distracting. If I was distracted in any way, then that could prove lethal for the person that was on my left or on my right."

"I wanted to join something that I felt that would give me the scope to do anything I wanted in the RAF, but also give me something that when I left. I'd have something to translate into City Street."

"I looked at what he does, what qualifications he's got, how he got there, and how I could replicate some of that to get myself."

"I wanted to succeed at that career. I just wanted to do a good job and be the best I could be at it."

"You can achieve anything you want to. You know, I'm a working class lad from a backstreet terrace house in Barnsley, and I've done everything I've done because I've had that drive."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles. Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode, Donna interviews Beck House, a former police officer whose journey through mental health challenges and recovery is both harrowing and inspiring. Beck shares her early passion for public service, her experiences in the police force, and the traumatic events that led to a mental health crisis, including a prescribed drug-induced psychotic episode. She candidly discusses the inadequate support she received during her struggles and the impact of her experiences on her mental well-being. After a difficult recovery process, Beck found her purpose in helping others by founding a community interest company, SIS (Strength in Struggles), which offers alternative therapeutic options and peer support for those facing mental health challenges.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

From a young age, there was a strong desire to help people, which led to a career in policing. This journey included studying health and social care, criminology, and psychology before joining the police force.

A significant personal loss and relationship breakdown triggered a mental health crisis, leading to suicidal ideations and a breakdown that resulted in being sectioned and experiencing traumatic treatment in a psychiatric unit.

The initial treatment involved antidepressants that worsened anxiety and led to a drug-induced psychotic episode. This experience highlighted the complexities and potential negative effects of psychiatric medications.

After a difficult recovery process, including accessing better mental health support, there was a shift towards helping others. This included writing a book about personal experiences and founding a community interest company focused on mental health support and alternative therapies.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was the last one to speak to her on the phone. And although I'd dealt with a lot of death in the police by this point, this was my own first significant personal bereavement."

"I was terrified to step a foot out of place. It wasn't long before the other patients found out that I was a serving police officer."

"I was sat there on the cell floor thinking, what, what has my life come to? Like, how have I ended up?"

"I was literally carried out by my arms and legs to the police van."

"I still think there's a place and a need for medication and I'd never discourage people from taking it."

GUEST LINKS

https://www.instagram.com/s.i.s_strengthinstruggles

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-house-1917462b0

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles. Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Donna interviews Dan Holder, the founder of Arc Atomic Rambo Coaching, a company dedicated to helping individuals remove alcohol from their lives and improve their mental health. Dan shares his journey from serving in the Royal Marine Reserves to experiencing complex PTSD after a demanding tour in Afghanistan. He discusses the challenges he faced with alcohol as a coping mechanism and how he ultimately transformed his life through positive psychology and resilience training.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The coaching business emphasises building a community for veterans and others dealing with mental health issues, providing a space for individuals to share experiences and seek help.

The journey through PTSD involved various forms of therapy, including EMDR, which helped transform traumatic memories into manageable ones, leading to personal growth and resilience.

Alcohol was initially used to numb the effects of PTSD, but recognising its detrimental impact led to a commitment to sobriety, which became a catalyst for achieving personal goals, such as completing an Ironman.

The coaching approach is based on three pillars: Awareness, Resilience, and Commitment (ARK), which helps clients understand their situations, build resilience, and maintain accountability for their goals.

Plans are in place to establish a community interest company to provide structured support for veterans and others in need, ensuring that help reaches those who require it, beyond just financial assistance.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think if you want to deal with PTSD, quit drinking first, because then you're actually full front going on to sort out PTSD."

"Why do people always ask you the worst thing you've ever seen or done? Why not ask about the best thing you've ever done?"

"I always knew drink was an issue back then. It took me a long period of time to stop."

"I just reframed PTSD. To me, that's like post-traumatic growth. I've become a way better person because I suffered with PTSD."

"The alcohol-free movement is massive now. You can still be sociable, you can go out and do all of that side of things."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles. Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode, Donna interviews Laura Haining, who shares her extensive experience in public service, particularly in her current role as a social prescriber within GP practices. Laura discusses the importance of addressing social issues that impact health and well-being, such as social isolation and housing concerns, and how her work helps patients connect with community resources.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Social prescribing involves supporting patients with non-medical issues that impact their health and well-being, such as social isolation, housing, and access to community services. This holistic approach helps individuals build connections and improve their overall quality of life.

Engaging individuals with lived experience in service design and delivery is crucial. Their insights can inform better support systems and ensure that services meet the actual needs of those they aim to help.

A diverse background in various public service roles, including mental health support and homelessness prevention, has equipped individuals with essential skills in communication, crisis management, and person-centered care.

Maintaining emotional well-being is vital in emotionally demanding roles. Engaging in personal self-care practices, such as exercise and having support systems in place, helps professionals manage the emotional toll of their work.

Coaching focuses on helping individuals discover their own solutions and empowering them to take charge of their lives. This approach aligns with the philosophy of not being a "fixer" but rather facilitating personal growth and self-discovery.

BEST MOMENTS

"We can make referrals into other public services like primary care mental health or we can liaise with GPs if somebody needs more clinical input through the community mental health teams."

"The nature of our role as well is that people build that relationship with you. It's quite reassuring for people because that approach works for people with kind of social needs."

"When you unpick it, it can often be social needs that are being unmet as well."

"There's a lot of research now around kindness. Doing good deeds is really, really good for your own well-being because when you give, you often get a lot more back."

"I always think of that one, that you're not a fixer. You're there to help people to uncover their own answers."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles. Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode of Life After Public Service, Donna speaks with Leanne Webster, a former local government employee who found her calling supporting mums and babies through life’s toughest moments.

Leanne shares her journey—from growing up in a labour family in Dundee to facing postnatal depression and trauma—and how those experiences inspired her mission to help women heal from birth trauma and bond with their children. She also reveals her three-step process for recovery and why recognising the impact of trauma is vital for both mums and families.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

A New Calling: From local government to supporting mums and babies through birth trauma.

Personal Purpose: Leanne’s struggles with postnatal depression shaped her empathetic approach.

Trauma Isn’t Always Obvious: Even less extreme experiences can leave lasting effects.

Why Support Matters: The workplace once lacked mental health awareness—change is crucial.

A Path to Recovery: Leanne’s three-step process helps mums heal and reconnect with their children.

BEST MOMENTS

"I work only with the perinatal period… supporting mums to unpack trauma and bond with their babies."

"I felt like everything was crumbling down around me."

"I had to reach breaking point before someone saw me as a person."

"Everything I’ve gone through has brought me to helping other women."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades. 

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles.  Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media.

https://www.disruptivemedia.co.uk

Today, Donna sits down with Martin Price, a former civil servant who spent 20 years in the Foreign Office, now known as the FCDO. Martin shares his unique journey from a civil engineering apprenticeship to a fulfilling career in public service, where he travelled to 64 countries, installing IT and security systems in embassies worldwide. He reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his life, including the loss of his mother and the impact of his divorce, which prompted him to transition into entrepreneurship.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The journey from a civil servant in the Foreign Office to becoming an entrepreneur showcases the importance of adaptability and seizing opportunities, even when faced with personal challenges.

Effective communication skills are crucial in both public service and business. The ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures enhances professional relationships and fosters collaboration.

Early experiences in network marketing and mentorship shaped a strong foundation for influencing others. Sharing knowledge and experiences can inspire friends and family to pursue their own entrepreneurial ventures.

Travelling to various countries and experiencing different cultures has provided valuable insights into human behaviour and communication styles, emphasising the need for cultural sensitivity in global interactions.

Despite achieving financial stability, maintaining a balance between work and personal life remains a challenge. The importance of nurturing deeper relationships and connections is recognised, especially after personal losses.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was actually in the Foreign Office, and now it's called FCDO. I did 20 years as a civil servant, man and boy."

"I think sometimes you have to take that risk. You have to understand that it's worth taking."

"The world has never been more connected from a technology perspective, and yet as humans, we're so much more disconnected."

"I always wanted to do something. So for me to then fall into a great grounding is a great foundation for anybody that wants to go into business."

"I think it's got the most legs and I think it all hinges actually on communication skills."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles. Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

In this episode, Donna speaks with Louise Ramage, a former teacher turned well-being and neurodiversity coach. Louise shares her journey from working in a challenging inner-city school in London for 17 years to transitioning into coaching, driven by her desire to make a meaningful difference in people's lives. They discuss the complexities of teaching in diverse environments, the pressures of balancing work and family life, and the importance of setting boundaries to prevent burnout.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Gaining life experience before entering teaching can provide valuable perspectives and skills that enhance the ability to connect with students and manage classroom dynamics effectively.

A strong motivation for pursuing a career in teaching is the desire to make a positive impact on students' lives, particularly in challenging environments where support is crucial.

It's essential to be aware of the signs of burnout, such as increased stress and emotional fatigue, and to seek help early to prevent reaching a critical point where recovery becomes more difficult.

Establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life is vital for maintaining well-being, especially in demanding roles like teaching or coaching, where the desire to help others can lead to overcommitment.

Transitioning to coaching can provide an opportunity to continue making a difference in people's lives, particularly for those facing challenges like anxiety or neurodiversity, while also allowing for personal growth and fulfilment.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think my biggest draw was about making a difference. I really felt, for me, I could make a difference."

"29 out of 30 of them at age 11 put their hand up, that was the norm because they thought it was better to do that to protect themselves."

"I think it's essential that you put your boundaries in place from the beginning."

"If we can identify things aren't right early on, we're not gonna get to that complete point of burnout."

ABOUT THE HOST

Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.

She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles. Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.

https://www.facebook.com/share/1FjUrwC7qS

https://www.lifeafterpublicservice.co.uk/

Email: [email protected]

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donna-bentley-carr

This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/