PiXL Pearls

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

Subscribe on Spotify here

Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) wraps up this series with a look at fear; how it manifests in leadership, and how it can hinder our development. From Rugby star Eddie Jones, to revered author and poet Maya Angelou, to highly decorated composer and musician Leonard Bernstein, there's lots to learn from how these iconic figures faced their fears and how it has propelled them in their respective fields to a high stature. For one final time in this series, join us as Rachel uncovers some strategies for challenging what we find scary, finding humour in adversity, and rising above its grip so that we're unstuck from the immobilisation of fear.

What is it that you fear that your mind may be embellishing?

With each episode we will be releasing a supporting resource. The aim of the resource is to ensure that you have a 25-minute window to give yourself time to think. Click here to access these resources.

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

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

Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub.

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

Subscribe on Spotify

PiXL Pearls are short reflections on life and leadership, in schools. They are here to inspire, encourage, motivate, and challenge.

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.

You'll be familiar with Coco Chanel, her work and her legacy. But what do you know about her upbringing? Join PiXL CEO, Rachel Johnson, as she explores the surprising losses Coco Chanel endured and how she used them to transform her life.

Discover the seven forms of loss you may not have realised you've experienced and learn to apply four 'R's to avoid staying stuck where you are.

What have you lost recently? And more importantly, how can you apply the lessons from Coco's life to transform your situation in your school?

With each episode we will be releasing a supporting resource. The aim of the resource is to ensure that you have a 25-minute window to give yourself time to think. Click here to access these resources.

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

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

Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub.

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

Subscribe on Spotify

PiXL Pearls are short reflections on life and leadership, in schools. They are here to inspire, encourage, motivate, and challenge.

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.

How is your emotional bank account today?

Delve into the extraordinary journey of Jacinda Ardern, former Prime Minister of New Zealand. From navigating crises to her heartfelt resignation, Ardern's story epitomises resilience and authenticity. Join us as we explore her highs, lows, and the courage to lead and leave on her terms, challenging perceptions of leadership as she candidly shares her emotional journey. Tune in to 'Emotionally Overdrawn' for an engaging reflection on leadership and take time to think about how you can fill up your tank.

With each episode we will be releasing a supporting resource. The aim of the resource is to ensure that you have a 25-minute window to give yourself time to think. Click here to access these resources.

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

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

Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub.

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

Subscribe on Spotify

PiXL Pearls are short reflections on life and leadership, in schools. They are here to inspire, encourage, motivate, and challenge.

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.

PiXL CEO, Rachel Johnson, explores the synergy of realism and optimism through the captivating and inspiring stories of Franklin Roosevelt and Michael J Fox– Roosevelt, overcoming polio, and Fox, battling Parkinson's, exemplifying resilience fortified by their optimism. We delve into psychologist Martin Seligman's insights, distinguishing between pessimism and optimism. Find out how navigating clashes between optimism and reality, mindful language use, and maintaining a balance between realistic assessments and hopeful envisioning can help you avoid the pitfalls of losing hope within your leadership. Tune in for engaging insights and a pragmatic approach to embracing optimism!

With each episode we will be releasing a supporting resource. The aim of the resource is to ensure that you have a 25-minute window to give yourself time to think. Click here to access these resources.

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

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

Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub.

Subscribe on Apple Podcasts

Subscribe on Spotify

PiXL Pearls are short reflections on life and leadership, in schools. They are here to inspire, encourage, motivate, and challenge.

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.