After 25 years in education working with the most vulnerable children, Rena Johnson finally won Best School Leader of the Year at Future Ed Awards—but Ziggy literally had to drag her to the ceremony. In this brutally honest 2nd anniversary episode, the hosts break down why networking makes educators uncomfortable, the imposter syndrome that keeps great teachers invisible, and the events that transformed their careers.

Key Takeaways:

• Why talent alone doesn't guarantee career progression in education
• The fear of judgment that keeps educators from networking
• How imposter syndrome affects even the most experienced professionals
• Why networking in education doesn't feel transactional (when done right)
• The power of being in rooms where you can simply be yourself
• Only 2% of people on LinkedIn actually publish content—why visibility matters
• Your absence has a cost, and your presence creates opportunities

Top Events to Attend in 2026:

• REN Dinner (Racial Equity Networking) - Ann Palmer - End of year, warm & welcoming
• Future Ed Awards - November/December - Top tier, dress to impress
• Aspiring Heads Conference - October, Saturday event - Accessible & inspiring
• Step Up Network CPD - Saturdays - Discover what's possible beyond traditional teaching roles
• Black Educators Event - Birmingham/Manchester
• Black Men Teach events & retreat

Hosts: Rena Johnson & Ziggy Moore

Special Shout Outs:Tracy Marquis, Stafford Scott, David Hermit, Yasmina Bibi, Sayo Hom, Janai Joseph, Dominique, Olivia, Kamoy Walker, Denise Henry, Albert, Jono, Nadine & Ethan Bernard, Ben Hobbis, Viv Amoon, Courtney Brown, Patricia Lamour

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About The SLT Podcast:Hosted by Rena Johnson (Deputy Head, Designated Teacher, SENDco & DSL) and Ziggy Moore (Assistant Headteacher & Founder of Moore Education), the SLT Podcast is a bi-weekly series featuring powerful conversations with leaders doing impactful work in education and youth development. Celebrating 2 years of consistent, authentic conversations.

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