School leaders are pulled in every direction — staff, pupils, parents, governors, inspectors. The pressure to say “yes” to everything can feel overwhelming, but the cost is often burnout and blurred priorities. In this episode, we explore the art of saying no: how leaders can set boundaries with confidence, protect their time, and focus on what truly matters for their school community.

* Why saying “yes” to everything undermines leadership

* The hidden power of a well-placed “no”

* Practical strategies for setting boundaries without guilt

* How protecting your time protects your school

* Stories of leaders who found freedom in saying less, not more

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit paulurry68.substack.com/subscribe