I interview Xiaoxiao Mulhall, current president of Network Kildare (part of Network Ireland) and founder of Sinoventures, about inclusive growth through global connections and building deeper member relationships. Xiaoxiao explains Network Kildare’s role as a women’s network supporting business owners, employees, and aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting guided networking, joint events with other branches, and plans to increase visibility via PR, LinkedIn, Instagram, and personal branding. 

Drawing on her experience helping Irish and European businesses enter the Chinese market, she discusses fear, research, cultural understanding, protecting brand and regulatory alignment, and taking calculated risks. She shares leadership insights: confidence follows action, authenticity in public speaking, preparation, delegation, and prioritisation, and emphasises that women and teachers are already leaders. 

She previews a Chinese New Year event and explains how to join via NetworkIreland.ie or [email protected].

Timestamps

• 00:48 What Network Kildare Does
• 01:41 Theme Inclusive Global Growth
• 04:05 Going International Without Fear
• 09:02 Confidence Follows Action
• 10:48 Why She Said Yes to Becoming VP
• 12:02 Personal Branding and LinkedIn
• 15:58 Time Management and Delegation
• 19:48 Recognising Everyday Leadership
• 22:09 Public Speaking and Authenticity
• 24:37 Interviews and Asking Why
• 28:44 Member Research and Inclusion Events
• 31:52 Chinese New Year Celebration
• 34:11 Closing Advice and How to Join

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In this episode of the Growth and Educational Leadership Podcast, I interview teacher and HSCL liaison officer Cathal Twaddle about his career milestones, psychology studies, and leadership learning shaped by sport. Cathal describes an early prison service role and how a manager linked team sport to resilience and teamwork, which became a lens for his teaching and leadership. 

He discusses “two roads” moments influenced by his parents’ limited educational opportunities and his father’s dementia, emphasising reflection and ambition. 

Cathal defines high performance as consistently doing simple, logical tasks, applying this to teaching and student voice. He explains inclusion as broader than additional needs, and outlines HSCL work supporting families, including homelessness, by building trust through visibility, clear communication, and demystifying attendance processes. 

He also shares interview strategies, networking, transferable teacher skills, and reverse-engineering leadership goals.

TIMESTAMPS

• 01:04 Prison Service Beginnings
• 02:47 Sport Mindset and Two Roads
• 06:34 From Coaching to Teaching
• 10:03 High Performance Basics
• 12:14 Student Voice Made Simple
• 15:29 Inclusion Beyond SEN
• 17:41 HSCL Role and Homelessness
• 20:09 Building Trust With Parents
• 23:52 Interview Lessons From Sport
• 27:24 Career Advice and Reflection
• 31:41 Networking and Transferable Skills
• 33:57 Reverse Engineering Leadership Goals
• 36:38 Final Thanks and Wrap Up

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In this week's episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I speak with Andrea Byrne, who shares her journey from a secondary school teacher to becoming an online fitness coach and gym owner. 

Andrea discusses the challenges and rewards of her career change, the importance of community in her gym, and the transition from using Instagram as a teacher to leveraging it for her fitness business.

Useful Links:

The Andrea Byrne Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1jbCWAicOiJUYB0pAfKxug?si=d3a3c8c3e2d0403b

Anú Gym: https://www.instagram.com/_anufitness/

Andrea Byrne Online Coach: https://www.instagram.com/andreabyrnecoaching/

• 00:00 Welcome to the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast
• 00:06 Reconnecting with Andrea Byrne
• 00:47 From Teacher to Fitness Coach
• 01:50 Reflecting on Teaching Career
• 02:42 The Decision to Leave Teaching
• 05:00 Starting a New Business
• 06:45 Building a Gym from Scratch
• 11:14 Creating a Community-Focused Gym
• 16:19 Balancing Fitness and Life
• 17:21 Seeking Business Advice and Support
• 19:04 Challenges of Transitioning from Teaching to Business
• 20:30 Balancing Teaching and Business Responsibilities
• 23:33 Building and Growing a Gym Business
• 26:46 Navigating Social Media and Personal Branding
• 30:31 Community and Client Relationships
• 32:32 Promoting the Gym and Future Plans
• 35:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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In this episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I welcome Sean McWeeny, a math educator and juggling enthusiast. 

Sean shares his innovative approach to making math enjoyable and accessible through his unique workshops that combine juggling and quadratic equations. 

He discusses the importance of embracing mistakes, developing a growth mindset, and fostering intrinsic motivation in both students and teachers. 

Sean also delves into the significance of empathy and compassion in education and coaching, and offers insights into effective leadership strategies in schools.

TIMESTAMPS

• 00:16 Introducing Sean McWeeny: Passion for Maths and Juggling
• 01:23 Revolutionising Maths Education Through Juggling
• 02:21 Encouraging Mistakes and Redefining Success
• 04:13 Finding Joy and Engagement in Learning
• 08:38 The Importance of Skills Over Knowledge
• 23:03 The Role of Compassion and Empathy in Education
• 24:10 The Importance of Compassion and Empathy
• 24:50 Heart-Centred Leadership
• 25:19 Embracing Mistakes in Teaching
• 25:55 The Influence of Jerry Duffy
• 26:36 Effective Communication with Students
• 27:36 Praise in Public, Reprimand in Private
• 28:34 Soft Skills in Leadership
• 30:45 The Chimp Paradox and Leadership
• 31:56 Lessons from Pat McCormick
• 34:47 Coaching Mindset in Teaching
• 36:06 Motivating Through Fun vs. Fear
• 40:58 Intrinsic and Extrinsic Motivation
• 43:15 Wrapping Up and Final Thoughts

Follow Seán on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/mrmathweeney/

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In this episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, Vicky Shilling, a former coach and expert in self-belief and self-confidence, joins me to discuss how educators and leaders can build self-confidence and tackle self-doubt. 

Vicky highlights her journey from the classical music sector to helping entrepreneurs and professionals in diverse fields develop self-trust and handle setbacks with compassion.

The conversation covers practical methods for restructuring beliefs, handling rejection, and applying these insights to educational leadership roles.

TIMESTAMPS

• 00:00 Welcome and Introduction
• 00:33 Vicki Schilling's Journey
• 01:30 Building Self-Belief and Confidence
• 02:46 Understanding the Inner Critic
• 06:14 Reframing Negative Beliefs
• 09:01 Applying Self-Belief in Education
• 12:06 Handling Conflict and Self-Doubt
• 18:16 Tips for Teachers to Build Self-Worth
• 19:16 Exploring Emotional Awareness
• 19:59 The Power of Journaling and Reflection
• 20:24 Creating Rituals for Self-Reflection
• 21:00 Utilising Movement for Mental Clarity
• 21:33 Voice Notes and Digital Journaling
• 21:57 Retraining Your Brain for Positivity
• 24:56 The Ripple Effect of Leadership
• 27:25 Facing Fears and Embracing Success
• 28:21 Balancing Leadership and Personal Well-being
• 30:44 The Role of AI in Coaching
• 33:23 Final Thoughts and Opportunities

FURTHER RESOURCES

The Belief Biography Vicky mentioned is here: 

https://www.canva.com/design/DAGJFvmclmM/q-A1aQ8DfAGO_g3khWGiow/view?utm_content=DAGJFvmclmM&utm_campaign=designshare&utm_medium=link&utm_source=publishsharelink&mode=preview

The Self-Trust Lab Assistant is here: https://subscribepage.io/lab-assistant 

Ways to work with Vicky are here: https://vickyshilling.com/who-do-i-coach

INSTAGRAM

Follow Vicky on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/vicky.shilling/

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In this episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I interview Debbie O'Neil, the principal of Scoil Eoin, a special school in Crumlin.  Debbie shares her journey from aspiring journalist to educational leader, discusses the challenges facing special education, particularly in light of government policies on inclusion, and advocates for the importance of tailored educational environments for children with mild general learning disabilities. 

She also emphasises the importance of community, warmth, and understanding in fostering a supportive educational setting.

TIMESTAMPS

• 00:53 Debbie O'Neil's Journey to Leadership
• 02:14 Challenges and Changes in Special Education
• 03:51 The Debate on Inclusion
• 06:02 Leadership and Staff Wellbeing
• 11:23 Hiring for Empathy and Respect
• 15:42 The Future of Special Education
• 25:07 Student Transformation and Achievements
• 25:57 Restorative Practices in Education
• 27:05 Challenges in Post-Primary Education
• 27:45 Advocacy for Special Education
• 32:56 Teacher Burnout and Self-Doubt
• 36:15 The Importance of Inclusion
• 44:36 Open Invitation to Experience Special Schools
• 47:28 Conclusion and Final Thought

Contact Debbie at [email protected]. 

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In this episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I interview Ben Henry, founder of Novera Coaching, who shares his journey from 15 years in education to becoming a career coach. We discuss the importance of clarity, building confidence, and the lasting satisfaction of helping clients navigate career transitions, particularly for teachers considering a change. We also touch upon effective coaching strategies, the significance of understanding one's strengths and weaknesses, and how to handle fear of failure in career pursuits.

• 00:06 Meet Ben Henry: From Education to Coaching
• 01:42 The Journey to Career Coaching
• 02:22 Inside a Coaching Session
• 02:57 Teacher Responses and Career Transitions
• 03:41 Building a Coaching Business
• 05:39 The Bold Move Series: Inspiring Career Changes
• 06:37 Navigating Career Transitions and Identity
• 08:37 Understanding Motivations and Strengths
• 09:34 Success Stories and Overcoming Uncertainty
• 11:39 Building Confidence for Career Advancement
• 17:11 Stepping into Leadership Roles
• 20:25 Bringing Coaching Mindset into the Classroom
• 20:34 Empowering Students Through Attention
• 21:48 Addressing Behavioural Issues with Attention
• 22:25 Incorporating Coaching in Modern Teaching
• 22:48 Inclusion in Professional Environments
• 24:12 Creating Safe Spaces for Identity Expression
• 25:16 Neurodiversity and Acceptance in Classrooms
• 26:12 Overcoming Fear of Failure
• 27:59 Setting Goals and Transitioning Careers
• 29:32 Entrepreneurship in Education
• 31:22 Structuring Your Day as an Entrepreneur
• 32:37 Uncovering Blind Spots in Coaching
• 37:30 Psychometric Tests and Coaching
• 38:47 Conclusion and Contact Information

Connect with Novera Coaching on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/noveracoaching/

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 "Muscle doesn't know age. It only knows effort." In this enlightening episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I host Darina Dunne, an Irish advocate for physical activity and pharmaceutical professional. We discuss the critical role of movement in public health, her journey from pharmacology to physical fitness advocacy, the importance of strength training, and the need for paradigm shifts in public health policies. Darina also shares personal insights on confidence, aging, and the transformative power of volunteerism and physical fitness.

• 00:00 Welcome to the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast
• 00:13 Introducing Darina Dunn: Advocate for Physical Activity
• 00:58 Darina's Professional Journey and Passion for Movement
• 01:48 Challenges in Promoting Physical Activity
• 03:14 The Importance of Strength Training
• 06:32 Advocacy and Policy Change in Europe
• 15:41 Practical Tips for Incorporating Exercise
• 20:16 Mindset and Confidence
• 21:53 Embracing Midlife Creativity
• 23:47 Holistic Life and Sustainable Leadership
• 25:58 Reframing Aging and Career Opportunities
• 33:57 The Importance of Physical Activity
• 35:21 The Role of Education and Life Skills
• 36:35 The Impact of AI and Technology
• 37:29 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Learn more about Darina and her advocacy here: 

Connect with Darina here: https://www.instagram.com/darina.dunne/

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This episode focuses on how teachers can avoid feeling overlooked, particularly those with significant experience. The discussion includes the importance of self-reflection, skill development, positive affirmation, and aligning oneself with future leadership roles. 

I also touch on dealing with online criticism and I recognise the trauma and challenges educators face.

TIMESTAMPS

• 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Update
• 00:45 Addressing Teacher Overlook and Job Applications
• 02:54 Personal Challenges and Overcoming Criticism
• 06:56 Understanding and Addressing Trauma in Education
• 09:22 Strategies to Avoid Being Overlooked
• 20:16 Final Thoughts

INCREDIBLE FREE TOOL TO HELP YOU
Here's a link to The Secret Career Stories Freebie which will help you to create your interview and leadership stories and give you the framework to communicate them clearly: https://www.orladempseycoaching.ie/page/391400

WEBSITE
www.orladempseycoaching.ie

RELEVANT INFORMATION
Trauma Informed Care Trainings: https://qualitymatters.ie/trauma-informed-care-in-ireland/

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In this episode of the Growth in Educational Leadership Podcast, I speak with Lisa Kirwan, a lecturer in pediatric nursing at Trinity College and a PhD student. Lisa shares her recent struggles with securing childcare for her four-year-old daughter and the advocacy work she has undertaken to raise awareness about the lack of childcare resources. We delve into the importance of community support, the role of empathy and communication in education, and the significance of networking and leadership development.

• 00:06 Meet Lisa Kerwin: Lecturer, Mom, and Advocate
• 00:43 The Childcare Crisis: A Personal Story
• 01:40 Advocacy and Community Action
• 03:17 The Importance of Reliable Childcare
• 04:33 Challenges and Realities of Childcare
• 12:05 Leadership and Advocacy in Education
• 27:11 The Role of Communication and Empathy in Education
• 28:36 Transition from Rote Learning to Critical Thinking
• 29:20 Case Studies and Problem-Based Learning
• 30:16 The Importance of Reflection in Education
• 31:53 Challenges and Adaptability in Teaching
• 33:24 Networking and Professional Growth
• 36:26 Balancing Personal and Professional Life
• 38:45 The Role of Reflection and Mentorship
• 41:24 The Power of Networking and Collaboration
• 45:50 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

INCREDIBLE FREE TOOL TO HELP YOU
Here's a link to my 14-day email leadership challenge: https://www.orladempseycoaching.ie/page/646882

WEBSITE
www.orladempseycoaching.ie

RELEVANT INFORMATION
Contact Lisa here: https://www.tcd.ie/nursing-midwifery/staff/academic-staff/kirwanl4/

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