PiXL Pearls

It’s often acknowledged that starting is the hardest part, but by surrendering to feeling stuck at this step, perhaps many of us are doing a disservice to the innovative ideas waiting to emerge. 

In the final episode of the PiXL Pearls series, “The Hard Yards”, Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) reflects on the inspiring relationship between Tchaikovsky and his benefactor, Nadezhda Von Meck. For 13 years, her financial support gave him the freedom to focus on composing the operas and symphonies that cemented him as a legend. Their bond was felt more than merely a financial help – it gave Tchaikovsky a safe space to share his creative process and thoughts on mastering his craft, a relationship built solely through letters.

Through exploring Tchaikovsky's belief in working through creative blocks, Rachel draws attention to the discipline of self-mastery and the importance of finding trusted people to share your struggles with. Whether you're feeling stuck, doubting your abilities, or just waiting for inspiration to strike, there’s a powerful leadership lesson here: sometimes you have to start before you feel ready, be patient with the process, and surround yourself with people who get it.

This episode is packed with actionable insights for leaders who want to navigate challenges with both creativity and discipline. Tune in for practical takeaways on confidence, perseverance, and the power of finding a supportive sounding board.

What are you waiting for inspiration for and do you just need to sit down and start?

Check out the PiXL website: https://www.pixl.org.uk/ for free downloads

Read Rachel's new book:  Time to Think 2: The Things that stop us and how to deal with them

Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub.

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

Subscribe on Spotify

The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system.

Series 2, 3, 4 and 5 are presented by Rachel Johnson, CEO of PiXL, and Series 1 was presented by Founder-Director Sir John Rowling.

They both draw on literature, life, and experience in leadership to explore different elements of what it is to be a good leader and how we can become even better leaders, both in and out of schools.

Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.

PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production.

For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/

Inspired by Ernest Hemingway's bullfighting analogy “Querencia”, this episode delves into the ways that finding your safe space can empower you to face challenges head-on and the secret weapon to transforming them into triumphs.

Whether you're a teacher, leader, or simply someone looking to navigate life's storms, discover practical strategies to build resilience, overcome obstacles, and ignite your school's full potential. Let's discover how to turn challenges into opportunities for growth and unleash our inner bison for maximum impact in “Querencia”.

Join Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) through an exploration of one of the mightiest animals – the indomitable bison, in this the penultimate episode of the 6th series of the PiXL Pearls podcast.

Check out the PiXL website: https://www.pixl.org.uk/ for free downloads

Read Rachel's new book:  Time to Think 2: The Things that stop us and how to deal with them

Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub.

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

Subscribe on Spotify

The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system.

Series 2, 3, 4 and 5 are presented by Rachel Johnson, CEO of PiXL, and Series 1 was presented by Founder-Director Sir John Rowling.

They both draw on literature, life, and experience in leadership to explore different elements of what it is to be a good leader and how we can become even better leaders, both in and out of schools.

Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.

PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production.

For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/

Structure is crucial to build a strong leadership foundation, but at times, inflexibility can be a cause of collapse.

In this episode, Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) unpacks LEGO’s dramatic rise, near-fall, and ultimate comeback.

Their obsession with quality made them legends, but by the late '90s, that same rigidity nearly sank them.

When they finally pivoted, they went too far, sacrificing core values for risky innovation.

Yet, LEGO’s story didn’t end in disaster, largely attributed to an embracing of balancing paradoxes—innovation with discipline, creativity with control.

Join Rachel as she outlines the dangers of overplaying strengths, the importance of a bifocal perspective that keeps one eye on the present and one on the future, and the power of embracing both/and thinking.

Tune in to “Inflexibility” to find that sweet spot where flexibility meets consistency, and where you can lead with both humility and confidence.

Check out the PiXL website: https://www.pixl.org.uk/ for free downloads

Read Rachel's new book:  Time to Think 2: The Things that stop us and how to deal with them

Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub.

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

Subscribe on Spotify

The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system.

Series 2, 3, 4 and 5 are presented by Rachel Johnson, CEO of PiXL, and Series 1 was presented by Founder-Director Sir John Rowling.

They both draw on literature, life, and experience in leadership to explore different elements of what it is to be a good leader and how we can become even better leaders, both in and out of schools.

Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.

PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production.

For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/

Effective collaboration is a capstone of effective leadership for all involved, yet it is a skill that many find hard to master – both within and outside the schooling environment.  In this episode of the PiXL Pearls podcast, Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) dives into the high-stakes collaboration that created the legendary Blackadder. Ben Elton and Richard Curtis wrote separately, swapping scripts and ruthlessly editing each other’s work.

But when their sharp wit collided with Stephen Fry and Rowan Atkinson in rehearsals, creative sparks—and tensions—ignited, leading to the series' dramatic end. Rachel also explores how PIXAR’s 'Brain Trust' turned similar tension into storytelling magic.

This episode is packed with leadership lessons—from embracing diverse perspectives to setting clear boundaries in collaboration, and knowing when to step back without stifling creativity.

Check out the PiXL website: https://www.pixl.org.uk/ for free downloads

Read Rachel's new book:  Time to Think 2: The Things that stop us and how to deal with them

Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub.

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

Subscribe on Spotify

The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system.

Series 2, 3, 4 and 5 are presented by Rachel Johnson, CEO of PiXL, and Series 1 was presented by Founder-Director Sir John Rowling.

They both draw on literature, life, and experience in leadership to explore different elements of what it is to be a good leader and how we can become even better leaders, both in and out of schools.

Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.

PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production.

For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/

Sadness is often considered to be a dreary topic, but it's vital to our humanity, and especially so in roles as educators and school leaders. Defined as a natural response to emotional pain, sadness can actually enhance our attention to detail, perseverance, generosity, and gratitude.

In this episode of the PiXL Pearls podcast, Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) explores the unexpected power of sadness through the lens of a remarkable event: the 1914 Christmas Truce during WWI.

Soldiers, enemies just moments before, came together in a profound display of humanity, driven by their shared sadness. Joy was born in the midst of profound sadness, and hope was found where there had been hopelessness.

Uncover how embracing sadness can drive meaningful change, foster deep connections, and encourage gratitude in your school and community. Learn how to handle collective sadness, support struggling colleagues and students, and cultivate an attitude of kindness and appreciation.

Check out the PiXL website: https://www.pixl.org.uk/ for free downloads

Read Rachel's new book:  Time to Think 2: The Things that stop us and how to deal with them

Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub.

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

Subscribe on Spotify

The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system.

Series 2, 3, 4 and 5 are presented by Rachel Johnson, CEO of PiXL, and Series 1 was presented by Founder-Director Sir John Rowling.

They both draw on literature, life, and experience in leadership to explore different elements of what it is to be a good leader and how we can become even better leaders, both in and out of schools.

Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.

PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production.

For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/

Thoughtful planning is imperative for successful leadership, yet, in the fast-paced school environment, many leaders find themselves acting now and thinking later – and subsequently rushing to put out the fires that arise from such snap decisions.

Knowing when to go fast and when to go slow is a key tenant of effective and efficient leadership, but it remains a constant struggle for many.

Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) dives into the story of the Pentagon, illustrating the devastating effects of rushed decisions.

This project experienced many interruptions, and the building that stands today as the HQ of the United States Department of Defense is in an entirely different place than what was initially planned – there’s much to learn from how a lack of planning and thoughtful consideration led to delays and setbacks. Using lessons on leadership from Bent Flyvbjerg and Dan Gardner, authors of ‘How Big Things Get Done’, learn the pitfalls of acting too fast, and find out how you can escape the ‘break-fix’ cycle. Tune in for essential lessons on how slowing down and making well-considered choices can lead to smoother and better outcomes for you, your staff, and your pupils.

Check out the PiXL website: https://www.pixl.org.uk/ for free downloads

Read Rachel's new book:  Time to Think 2: The Things that stop us and how to deal with them

Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub.

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

Subscribe on Spotify

The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system.

Series 2, 3, 4 and 5 are presented by Rachel Johnson, CEO of PiXL, and Series 1 was presented by Founder-Director Sir John Rowling.

They both draw on literature, life, and experience in leadership to explore different elements of what it is to be a good leader and how we can become even better leaders, both in and out of schools.

Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.

PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production.

For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/

In the second episode of PiXL Pearls Series 6, Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) takes us on a transformative leadership journey inspired by the metamorphosis of a caterpillar into a butterfly. Discover the hidden lessons in this natural process and how they apply to leadership and personal growth.

Explore practical strategies to navigate change, avoid ego depletion, and overcome decision fatigue. Learn how to maintain your MOJO—your positive spirit—and avoid the pitfalls of NOJO, or "no joy." Rachel shares insights on how to replenish your energy and stay motivated during times of transformation.

Join us for an enlightening episode that blends nature's wisdom with actionable leadership advice, helping you embrace change and emerge stronger, ready to soar to new heights.

Check out the PiXL website: https://www.pixl.org.uk/ for free downloads

Read Rachel's new book:  Time to Think 2: The Things that stop us and how to deal with them

Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub.

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

Subscribe on Spotify

The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system.

Series 2, 3, 4 and 5 are presented by Rachel Johnson, CEO of PiXL, and Series 1 was presented by Founder-Director Sir John Rowling.

They both draw on literature, life, and experience in leadership to explore different elements of what it is to be a good leader and how we can become even better leaders, both in and out of schools.

Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.

PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production.

For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/

We kick off PiXL Pearls Series 6 with an enchanting episode that dives into the story behind Disney's beloved song "A Spoonful of Sugar."

Join Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) as she reveals how the Sherman Brothers turned a simple idea from Robert Sherman's son into a timeless hit that embodies the magic of making tough tasks enjoyable.

Uncover the secret to Walt Disney's favourite song from Mary Poppins and learn how a spoonful of fun can make a world of difference in your leadership journey, with practical tips to boost your motivation and transform your daily routine!

Tune in to an insightful start to Series 6, where a bit of Disney magic meets powerful leadership strategies, making even the hardest tasks feel a little sweeter.

Check out the PiXL website: https://www.pixl.org.uk/ for free downloads

Read Rachel's new book:  Time to Think 2: The Things that stop us and how to deal with them

Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub.

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

 Subscribe on Spotify

The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system.

Series 2, 3, 4 and 5 are presented by Rachel Johnson, CEO of PiXL, and Series 1 was presented by Founder-Director Sir John Rowling.

They both draw on literature, life, and experience in leadership to explore different elements of what it is to be a good leader and how we can become even better leaders, both in and out of schools.

Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.

PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production.

For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/

PiXL Pearls is back for series 6, brimming with inspiring stories to fuel your leadership journey.

Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) explores invaluable lessons for leaders, drawing inspiration from Mary Poppins' wisdom to Pixar and LEGO’s success stories.

Discover how to tackle invisible challenges, embrace the power of slowing down, and understand the importance of sadness and pauses in leadership.

Learn about the pitfalls of inflexibility and the significance of togetherness, while finding your 'Querencia'—your happy place.

Unleash your inner Tchaikovsky with doses of inspiration, empowering you to lead with heart.

Experience bite-sized reflections on leadership, one captivating story at a time.

The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system.

Series 2, 3, 4 and 5 are presented by Rachel Johnson, CEO of PiXL, and Series 1 was presented by Founder-Director Sir John Rowling.

They both draw on literature, life, and experience in leadership to explore different elements of what it is to be a good leader and how we can become even better leaders, both in and out of schools.

Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically.

PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production.

For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/

Thank you for listening to Pearls.

Thousands of you have. More people are finding them every day.

Do rate and review so even more people will find us.

We're here to tell you about an exciting new podcast out the week beginning the 4th March, called "How Do You Teach?"

There are 12 episodes (6 for English released on Mondays and 6 for Science released on Tuesdays) all on one stream.

We talk about the trickiest issues in our subjects and how to help students overcome them.

Full of great discussion and top tips, download them wherever you get your podcasts!

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts here

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