In this conversation, Bria Bloom discusses her journey from being an unschooled child to becoming a passionate advocate for self-directed education. She explains the principles of self-directed education, addresses common misconceptions, and emphasizes the importance of structure and community in this educational approach. Bria also shares insights on cultural differences in education, the challenges of measuring success in self-directed learning, and practical steps educators can take to incorporate these principles into traditional school settings. The conversation concludes with reflections on the importance of finding supportive communities and the complexities of parenting in the context of education.

Takeaways

• Bria Bloom is a passionate advocate for self-directed education.
• Self-directed education centers on the autonomy and agency of young people.
• Education is the sum of everything a person learns.
• Self-directed education derives from self-chosen activities and life experiences.
• There are many misconceptions about self-directed education.
• Structure in self-directed education can vary greatly by family and child.
• Cultural perspectives on education differ significantly around the world.
• Measuring success in self-directed education is complex and multifaceted.
• Unschooling can lead to surprising outcomes in socialization and learning.
• Finding supportive communities is crucial for parents and educators.

Host

Kevin Fullbrook is an international school leader with 25+ years of global education experience across Australia, China, and the Middle East. As host of The Leadership Passport Podcast, Kevin dives into the stories, strategies, and insights of education leaders from around the world. With a passion for inclusive leadership, student agency, and sustainable school cultures, he brings thoughtful conversations and practical takeaways for educators, aspiring leaders, and anyone interested in the future of learning.

Connect with him on Instagram (@kevin.fullbrook) and LinkedIn (Kevin Fullbrook)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-fullbrook-33034b8b/

https://www.instagram.com/kevin.fullbrook/

In this conversation, Kelly Smith, founder and CEO of Prenda, discusses his journey in education, focusing on the concept of micro schools. He shares his passion for learning and how it led him to create a student-centered learning environment that fosters agency and ownership among students. Kelly addresses common misconceptions about micro schools, the challenges of scaling this model, and the potential impact on traditional education systems. He emphasizes the importance of supportive relationships between educators and students and encourages educators to innovate within their existing systems.

Takeaways

• Kelly's obsession with learning began in childhood.
• Micro schools are student-centered and promote agency.
• Misconceptions about micro schools often equate them to homeschooling.
• Creating a safe environment is crucial for student success.
• Scaling micro schools faces challenges of inertia and fear.
• Surprising support comes from educators and administrators.
• Micro schools can influence traditional education positively.
• Educators can innovate within their current systems.
• Students from micro schools develop a sense of ownership.
• The goal is to empower learners to create meaningful lives.

Host

Kevin Fullbrook is an international school leader with 25+ years of global education experience across Australia, China, and the Middle East. As host of The Leadership Passport Podcast, Kevin dives into the stories, strategies, and insights of education leaders from around the world. With a passion for inclusive leadership, student agency, and sustainable school cultures, he brings thoughtful conversations and practical takeaways for educators, aspiring leaders, and anyone interested in the future of learning.

Connect with him on Instagram (@kevin.fullbrook) and LinkedIn (Kevin Fullbrook)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-fullbrook-33034b8b/

https://www.instagram.com/kevin.fullbrook/

In this conversation, Kevin Fullbrook speaks with Jen Buchanan, the principal of Think Global School, an innovative international school that operates on a unique model of global immersion. Jen shares her extensive experience in education, the challenges and triumphs of leading a school that travels to different countries each term, and the importance of deep learning over educational tourism. The discussion covers the school's curriculum, the leadership skills required in such a dynamic environment, and the essential qualities sought in educators. Jen also reflects on the skills students develop through this immersive experience and the lessons traditional schools can learn from outlier models like Think Global School.

Takeaways

• Think Global School is a unique international traveling boarding school.
• The curriculum is based on place-based learning and global immersion.
• Students must be adaptable and resilient to thrive in this model.
• Deep learning is prioritized over educational tourism.
• Leadership in a global context requires flexibility and trust in educators.
• Building a strong culture is essential for success in a mobile school.
• Parents must be engaged and informed about the school's innovative approach.
• Choosing locations involves careful consideration of safety and learning opportunities.
• Students develop skills in adaptability, ethical understanding, and independence.
• Outlier educational models challenge traditional assumptions about learning.

Host

Kevin Fullbrook is an international school leader with 25+ years of global education experience across Australia, China, and the Middle East. As host of The Leadership Passport Podcast, Kevin dives into the stories, strategies, and insights of education leaders from around the world. With a passion for inclusive leadership, student agency, and sustainable school cultures, he brings thoughtful conversations and practical takeaways for educators, aspiring leaders, and anyone interested in the future of learning.

Connect with him on Instagram (@kevin.fullbrook) and LinkedIn (Kevin Fullbrook)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-fullbrook-33034b8b/

https://www.instagram.com/kevin.fullbrook/

In this conversation, Brett Lee, a former police officer and current internet safety educator, shares his journey from law enforcement to educating children and parents about online safety. He emphasizes the importance of education in preventing child exploitation and discusses effective strategies for communicating risks to children. Brett highlights the need for schools to implement strong policies regarding technology use and the role of parents in guiding their children through the online world. He also addresses recent government regulations on social media and their potential impact on child safety.

Guest

ISE (Internet Safe Education) creator, Brett Lee, worked as a Queensland Police Officer for 22 years, 16 of those as a Detective predominantly in the field of Child Exploitation. In his last five years of service, he was a specialist in the field of undercover internet child exploitation investigations. Brett has been personally involved in the online investigation, arrest and prosecution of numerous offenders, whose medium for preying on children is the internet. Brett has delivered training to members of law enforcement agencies including New South Wales Police, South Australian Police, West Australian Police and Australian Customs. Within his own police service he was involved in the training of plain clothes police through Detective Training and Sexual Crimes courses in Online Child Exploitation investigations. Further to Brett's experience, he has completed the FBI Advanced Internet Investigations Course and has worked with the FBI Innocent Images Unit, Maryland USA, the Department of Homeland Security Cyber Crimes Centre, Virginia USA and the San Jose Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, California USA. He has also attended and spoken at conferences around Australia and the world.

Takeaways

• Education is crucial in preventing child exploitation.
• Children often lack awareness of online dangers.
• Parents should trust their instincts regarding online interactions.
• Effective communication is key to understanding children's online experiences.
• Schools need to enforce clear technology policies.
• Personal devices can pose significant risks in schools.
• Parents should set rules and boundaries for technology use at home.
• Engaging parents in education about online safety is essential.
• Government regulations can help protect children online.
• The online world is a hidden space that requires vigilance. 

Host

Kevin Fullbrook is an international school leader with 25+ years of global education experience across Australia, China, and the Middle East. As host of The Leadership Passport Podcast, Kevin dives into the stories, strategies, and insights of education leaders from around the world. With a passion for inclusive leadership, student agency, and sustainable school cultures, he brings thoughtful conversations and practical takeaways for educators, aspiring leaders, and anyone interested in the future of learning.

Connect with him on Instagram (@kevin.fullbrook) and LinkedIn (Kevin Fullbrook)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-fullbrook-33034b8b/

https://www.instagram.com/kevin.fullbrook/

In this conversation, Kevin Fullbrook speaks with Celeste Bolin and Louie DePhillips about One Stone, an innovative educational nonprofit in Boise, Idaho. They discuss the importance of student agency, passion-driven learning, and real-world applications in education. The conversation highlights the unique governance structure at One Stone, where students have a significant voice in decision-making. Celeste and Louie share insights on the challenges of adult control in education, the need for collaboration between students and adults, and practical steps traditional schools can take to empower students. They conclude with reflections on defining success in education and the importance of taking risks and embracing imperfection.

Guests

Louie DePhillips - One Stone Student and Board Member

Louie DePhillips is in his third year as a student at One Stone, with plans to graduate in 2026. In his free time, he enjoys exploring and pushing the boundaries of science and technology, currently focusing on hydrogen engines—a project he has dedicated over a year of research and development to. Alongside his engineering pursuits, Louie enjoys playing music, spending time outdoors, and climbing. Passionate about design, he has been using Blender, an open-source 3D modeling software, for about five years, integrating it into many of his projects. Louie has served on One Stone’s Board of Directors for the past two years as a member of the Development Committee.

Celeste Bolin, PhD - Executive Director, One Stone

Dr. Celeste Bolin is Executive Director of One Stone, a student-driven nonprofit in Boise, Idaho, that includes the Lab School, an innovative high school centered on agency, hands-on learning, and personal growth. Previously, she served as director of the Lab School for five years, helping to shape its learner-centered design and culture. Celeste holds a BS in Chemistry from Whitman College and a PhD in Neurotoxicology from the University of Montana, followed by postdoctoral fellowships at the Curie Institute in Paris and Boise State University. Her scientific career includes peer-reviewed publications, international presentations, and grant-funded research. Now in her ninth year as a leader at One Stone, she drives the organization’s Growth Framework—a skills-based model focused on adaptability, leadership, and real-world problem-solving—and leads R&D efforts to continuously improve student-driven learning environments.

Takeaways

• Students lack voice in traditional education systems.
• Passion-driven learning is central to One Stone's approach.
• Real-world applications enhance student engagement.
• Student leadership is integral to One Stone's governance.
• Adults must shift their mindset to empower students.
• Collaboration between students and adults is key.
• Success is defined by personal growth and resilience.
• Traditional schools can start by asking for student feedback.
• Students can lead change by stepping into leadership roles.
• Education should focus on real-world experiences.

Host

Kevin Fullbrook is an international school leader with 25+ years of global education experience across Australia, China, and the Middle East. As host of The Leadership Passport Podcast, Kevin dives into the stories, strategies, and insights of education leaders from around the world. With a passion for inclusive leadership, student agency, and sustainable school cultures, he brings thoughtful conversations and practical takeaways for educators, aspiring leaders, and anyone interested in the future of learning.

Connect with him on Instagram (@kevin.fullbrook) and LinkedIn (Kevin Fullbrook)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-fullbrook-33034b8b/

https://www.instagram.com/kevin.fullbrook/

In this conversation, Lainie Liberti discusses her work with Project World School, focusing on self-directed learning for teens and young adults. She emphasizes the importance of experiential education, community building, and the role of consensus in facilitating deep conversations among participants. Lainie shares her journey from a traditional career to creating immersive learning experiences around the world, highlighting the significance of understanding adolescent development and providing tools for empowerment. The discussion also touches on the importance of relationships, creativity, and the need for a slower, more reflective approach to life.

Where to find this guest:

Transformative Mentoring for Teens

Mentoring & Courses designed to transform teens lives (and yours).  

https://transformativementoringforteens.com/

The Partnership Parent Movement

Children need connection, not coercion. Together, we will change the world, one family at a time.

https://partnershipparent.com/

Project World School

Inspiring Temporary Learning Communities for Teens & Young Adults

Check out the 2020 Schedule Now!

https://ProjectWorldSchool.com

Project World School Family Summit

Biannual community gatherings for worldschooling families interested in travel, education and wellness.

https://worldschoolfamilysummit.com

We Are Worldschoolers 

Gain access to exclusive supportive community, articles, interviews, worldschooling Master Classes and mini-courses, live monthly calls, resource lists, and list your worldschooling product or service in our Worldschooler’s Marketplace!

https://weareworldschoolers.org/

Virtual Worldschooling SummitOver 50 speakers sharing 40 hours worldschooling wisdom to help get you and your family worldschooling, transforming the world into your classroom. https://worldschoolingsummit.com

Watch our TEDx talk - Making The World Our Classroom

https://youtu.be/bH-kQJ10WWo

Takeaways

• Lainie Liberti co-founded Project World School to serve self-directed learners.
• Experiential learning is at the core of their educational approach.
• Consensus is used to empower every individual in the community.
• Conflicts are seen as opportunities for growth and understanding.
• Traveling provides a unique way to learn about different cultures.
• Teens need to be seen, heard, and understood for their development.
• Tools for mental health are essential for empowering teens.
• Healthy relationships are crucial for personal growth.
• Creativity and play are fundamental to problem-solving.
• Slowing down is necessary for self-reflection and understanding.

Chapters

00:00 Exploring Alternative Education for Teens

04:51 Facilitating Deep Conversations with Teens

13:47 The Journey to Project World School

19:52 Understanding Adolescent Development

29:01 Creating Safe Spaces for Teens

37:05 The Importance of Slowing Down

Host

Kevin Fullbrook is an international school leader with 25+ years of global education experience across Australia, China, and the Middle East. As host of The Leadership Passport Podcast, Kevin dives into the stories, strategies, and insights of education leaders from around the world. With a passion for inclusive leadership, student agency, and sustainable school cultures, he brings thoughtful conversations and practical takeaways for educators, aspiring leaders, and anyone interested in the future of learning.

Connect with him on Instagram (@kevin.fullbrook) and LinkedIn (Kevin Fullbrook)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-fullbrook-33034b8b/

https://www.instagram.com/kevin.fullbrook/

In this conversation, Sean Bellamy, a long-time educator and co-founder of Sands School, shares insights into the unique educational philosophy and practices of the school. He discusses the importance of democratic education, student choice, and the relational environment that fosters learning. The conversation explores the daily life of students at Sands School, how conflicts are resolved, and the types of students who thrive in this alternative setting. Sean also reflects on the experiences of former students and offers advice for traditional educators looking to implement more student-centered practices.

Takeaways

Sands School was founded on the principles of democratic education and student involvement.

The school emphasizes the importance of listening to students and creating a relational environment.

Students at Sands School have the freedom to choose their learning paths, which fosters engagement.

Conflict resolution is handled through a school council that includes student participation.

Non-negotiable rules exist to maintain safety and respect within the school community.

The school caters to a diverse range of students, including those who feel invisible in larger institutions.

Former students reflect positively on their experiences, often citing personal growth and happiness.

Transitioning to traditional schools can be challenging for some students from Sands School.

Teachers are encouraged to create a gravitational field of care and interest to engage students.

Personal capital, cultural capital, and informational capital are essential for effective teaching.

Host

Kevin Fullbrook is an international school leader with 25+ years of global education experience across Australia, China, and the Middle East. As host of The Leadership Passport Podcast, Kevin dives into the stories, strategies, and insights of education leaders from around the world. With a passion for inclusive leadership, student agency, and sustainable school cultures, he brings thoughtful conversations and practical takeaways for educators, aspiring leaders, and anyone interested in the future of learning.

Connect with him on Instagram (@kevin.fullbrook) and LinkedIn (Kevin Fullbrook)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-fullbrook-33034b8b/

https://www.instagram.com/kevin.fullbrook/

In this conversation, Dr. Megan Khairallah shares her extensive experience in education leadership, particularly in international schools. She discusses the profound impact of COVID-19 on educational practices and leadership, emphasizing the importance of inclusion and student agency. Dr. Corella also addresses the role of accreditation in fostering school improvement and the challenges of balancing research with the demands of school leadership. Through personal anecdotes, she highlights crisis management experiences and the lessons learned from mistakes. Additionally, she offers valuable advice for aspiring leaders and reflects on emerging trends in education, particularly the influence of AI.

Guest Bio

Megan is an experienced educator, leader, and researcher with over 30 years in the field of education. She runs her own consultancy, supporting schools in accreditation, strategic planning, and leadership development. She holds a doctorate in Education from Teachers College, Columbia University (USA) and an Executive MBA from the University of Balamand.

She began her career as a middle and high school language teacher before becoming Professor and Chair of the Department of Education at the University of Balamand. From 2021 to 2024, she was Secondary School Principal at the International College, Beirut, leading the school through the post-COVID transition and national crises while overseeing four academic programs and advancing multiple accreditation processes. She is now an Adjunct Professor at the University of Balamand.

Takeaways

• Dr. Khairallah's journey in education is shaped by her experiences as a third culture kid.
• COVID-19 prompted a shift in her career towards school leadership.
• Inclusion in education encompasses social-emotional well-being, not just academics.
• Accreditation provides a framework for schools to reflect and improve.
• Balancing research and leadership is challenging but essential for growth.
• Crisis management requires strong communication and trust within the team.
• Mistakes in leadership are opportunities for reflection and growth.
• Documentation of experiences aids in strategic planning and reflection.
• Aspiring leaders should not wait for titles to demonstrate leadership.
• Planning for career transitions is crucial for long-term fulfillment.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Megan Khairallah

02:57 The Impact of COVID on Education Leadership

06:03 Understanding Accreditation in International Schools

08:53 Balancing Research and Leadership

12:10 Crisis Management in Education

15:05 Learning from Mistakes in Leadership

17:54 Advice for Aspiring School Leaders

20:51 Emerging Trends in Education

23:37 Key Leadership Habits and Mindsets

26:55 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

Host

Kevin Fullbrook is an international school leader with 25+ years of global education experience across Australia, China, and the Middle East. As host of The Leadership Passport Podcast, Kevin dives into the stories, strategies, and insights of education leaders from around the world. With a passion for inclusive leadership, student agency, and sustainable school cultures, he brings thoughtful conversations and practical takeaways for educators, aspiring leaders, and anyone interested in the future of learning.

Connect with him on Instagram (@kevin.fullbrook) and LinkedIn (Kevin Fullbrook)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-fullbrook-33034b8b/

https://www.instagram.com/kevin.fullbrook/

In this episode of the Leadership Passport, Dr. Sudha Govindswamy shares her journey from a childhood desire to make a difference to becoming an influential leader in international education. She discusses her experiences across various cultures, the importance of listening in leadership, and the challenges of aligning diverse stakeholder perspectives. Sudha emphasizes the need for empowered communities in education and reflects on her personal growth and the continuous journey of learning. She concludes with practical advice for leaders, highlighting the significance of self-care and the power of words.

Guest Bio

As one of the four Associate Directors in School Support & Evaluation at the Council of International Schools (CIS), Sudha oversees and supports schools regionally in  Middle East, Africa and India. A strong believer in school improvement through internationally benchmarked standards, Sudha served as a CIS Affiliated Consultant (2015). In this capacity, she supported school improvement initiatives in international schools across 10 countries including the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Bangkok, India, Egypt, and the United States. In 2018, Sudha joined CIS as a full-time School Support & Evaluation Officer and in this period continued to expand her work in supporting schools in east and west Africa as well, and in 2021, took on the role of Associate Director. Sudha holds a Masters degree in Business Administration and Finance, from the University of Kerala, India, and PGCE from the University of Sunderland. Having found her passion in education, she completed her doctorate in education at the University of Bath, UK.

Takeaways

• Dr. Sudha Govindswamy oversees school support in international education.
• Her early life experiences shaped her leadership style.
• Empowering others brings joy and fulfillment.
• International education is about belonging and identity.
• Listening before leading is crucial for effective leadership.
• Misalignment of stakeholder perspectives can create challenges.
• The future of education requires building empowered communities.
• Open-ended dialogue fosters innovation and collaboration.
• Self-care is essential for effective leadership.
• Words have power; mindful communication is key.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Sudha Govindswamy

02:55 Early Life and Leadership Inspirations

05:58 Journey into International Education

08:48 Aha Moments in Cultural Engagement

11:52 Navigating Leadership Challenges

14:56 Future of International Education

17:53 Practical Leadership Insights

20:37 Final Thoughts and Advice

Host

Kevin Fullbrook is an international school leader with 25+ years of global education experience across Australia, China, and the Middle East. As host of The Leadership Passport Podcast, Kevin dives into the stories, strategies, and insights of education leaders from around the world. With a passion for inclusive leadership, student agency, and sustainable school cultures, he brings thoughtful conversations and practical takeaways for educators, aspiring leaders, and anyone interested in the future of learning.

Connect with him on Instagram (@kevin.fullbrook) and LinkedIn (Kevin Fullbrook)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-fullbrook-33034b8b/

https://www.instagram.com/kevin.fullbrook/

In this conversation, Janecke Aarnaes, Head of School at the International School of Bologna, shares her journey into education, emphasizing the importance of cultural curiosity and understanding in shaping her leadership philosophy. She discusses the role of education in empowering students to become global citizens and the significance of nurturing confidence and responsibility in young learners. Janecke highlights the need for authentic leadership in times of change and her vision for redesigning education to better serve diverse student needs. Ultimately, she expresses hope for the future, driven by the potential of young learners to impact the world positively.

Guest Bio

Janecke Aarnaes is an accomplished international educator with 30 years of experience in school leadership and development. She has held founding head positions for pioneering start-ups and led both large (1200+) and small (-100) schools across Norway, Belgium, the United Arab Emirates, and Italy. Currently, she serves as the Head of School at the International School of Bologna, a 3 programme IB World School.

Her commitment to education is further demonstrated by her extensive service on various boards and commissions, such as the ECIS Board (2015-2021) and the Dubai Future Council on Education.  She is presently an appointed member of the NEASC Commission on International Education, serves on the Advisory Board to Evolution International School in Egypt and holds the Vice Chair/Treasurer role at the Association of IB World Schools in Italy.

Takeaways

• Janecke stumbled into education, finding her passion unexpectedly.
• Cultural curiosity is essential for navigating international education.
• Cultural differences exist beyond language barriers.
• Empowering students involves instilling confidence in their voices.
• Students thrive in environments where they can express themselves freely.
• Authenticity and vulnerability are crucial for effective leadership.
• Education should foster both thinkers and doers.
• Redesigning education requires flexibility to meet diverse needs.
• Every child should feel they matter in the educational system.
• Hope for the future lies in the potential of young learners.

Chapters

00:00 Journey into Education: A Serendipitous Path

02:46 Cultural Awareness and Leadership Philosophy

05:42 Language and Cultural Nuances in Education

09:01 Instilling Confidence and Responsibility in Students

11:43 Authentic Leadership in Times of Change

14:38 Redesigning Education: A Vision for the Future

21:51 Hope for the Future of Education

Host

Kevin Fullbrook is an international school leader with 25+ years of global education experience across Australia, China, and the Middle East. As host of The Leadership Passport Podcast, Kevin dives into the stories, strategies, and insights of education leaders from around the world. With a passion for inclusive leadership, student agency, and sustainable school cultures, he brings thoughtful conversations and practical takeaways for educators, aspiring leaders, and anyone interested in the future of learning.

Connect with him on Instagram (@kevin.fullbrook) and LinkedIn (Kevin Fullbrook)

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-fullbrook-33034b8b/

https://www.instagram.com/kevin.fullbrook/