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Educators are no strangers to overwhelming workloads. From endless lesson planning and admin to keeping up with emails and data collection, the job can often feel never-ending. Add to that the constant stream of headlines about teacher burnout, and it’s no wonder many staff feel stuck in a cycle of stress and exhaustion. But what if we could shift the narrative and the day-to-day reality by using new tools in smarter, more intentional ways?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one of the most talked-about innovations right now. Much of the conversation has centered on how students might use (or misuse) AI, but there’s an equally important question we need to ask: how can AI help teachers and leaders manage their workload, reclaim time, and support staff wellbeing?
In this episode, I am joined by Amy Green, thriving strategist, speaker, educator, author and founder of The Wellness Strategy. Amy shares her practical insights on how schools can embrace AI thoughtfully to lighten the load, improve collaboration and create space for genuine wellbeing practices to flourish.
In this episode, we cover:
About Amy:
Amy Green is a thriving strategist, speaker, author and educator who is reshaping the way we think about working and living well. After experiencing chronic stress and professional burnout firsthand, Amy committed to rethinking how schools and workplaces approach wellbeing. Through her organisation, The Wellness Strategy, she helps leaders and teams embrace innovative, sustainable practices that cultivate resilience, productivity, and engagement.
Drawing on her background in teaching, leadership, coaching, and positive psychology, Amy equips individuals and organisations to redesign their work in ways that allow people to truly flourish. With both lived experience and deep expertise, she brings a powerful mix of insight, compassion, and strategy to her mission of creating environments where educators and teams can thrive.
Links and Resources:
Explore our Well-Led Schools Partnership Program
https://www.thewellnessstrategy.com.au/books-and-resources
Thank you so much for listening. I’m so honoured that you’re here and would be so grateful if you could leave me a review on Apple Podcasts or on your preferred podcast app, so that we can inspire and educate even more people together.
Connect with Amy via:
Her website: www.thewellnessstrategy.com.au
Instagram: @amy_._green
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/amygreen/
Connect with me via:
My website: adriennehornby.com.au
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adrienne-hornby-a4126a205/
Email: [email protected]
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When was the last time your school really paused to consider what it means for staff to thrive, not just survive?
Many wellbeing initiatives in schools focus on quick fixes, such as morning teams, yoga sessions, or casual “wellbeing weeks,” which offer temporary boosts but don’t create lasting change.
In this episode, I sit down with Andrew Oberthur, retired primary school principal and educational consultant, to explore a more sustainable approach: shifting from individualised wellbeing strategies to strategies for wellbeing - cultural practices and systems that genuinely support staff, reduce stress and foster collaboration. Andrew shares insights from his decades of experience leading schools and his work helping leaders design environments where teachers and staff can flourish.
In this episode, we cover:
Whether you’re a school leader, administrator, or teacher seeking practical ways to build a more supportive and sustainable school environment, this conversation provides actionable insights that extend far beyond the usual morale boosters.
About Andrew:
Andrew Oberthur is an experienced educator and consultant with over 37 years of teaching and leadership experience in Brisbane primary schools, including 24 years as a principal. Now retired from school leadership, he shares his expertise to help teachers and school leaders sustain their wellbeing, manage workloads and thrive in the profession long-term.
Andrew is the author of three books, a regular contributor to Teachers Matter magazine in New Zealand, and a sought-after presenter on building effective teams, applying the 6 Team Conditions framework, and fostering strong school-parent relationships. He is passionate about creating cultures of trust, collaboration and inquiry, with a particular interest in inclusive education for children with diverse learning needs.
Through this work, Andrew equips schools with practical strategies for wellbeing, promotes positive professional relationships and champions the importance of parents and teachers working together to maximise children’s learning and development.
Links and Resources:
Explore our Staff Wellbeing Survey packages
Read Andrew’s article that inspired today’s conversation:
Well-Being Strategies V Strategies for Well-Being
Thank you so much for listening. I’m so honoured that you’re here and would be so grateful if you could leave me a review on Apple Podcasts or on your preferred podcast app, so that we can inspire and educate even more people together.
Connect with Andrew via:
His website: https://creativecollaborativesolutions.au/
On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-oberthur-910196162/
Email: [email protected]
Connect with me via:
My website: adriennehornby.com.au
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adrienne-hornby-a4126a205/
Email: [email protected]
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the Well-Led Schools Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Tim Sharp, also known as “Dr. Happy”, to explore how positive psychology can transform the way schools approach staff wellbeing. Together, we unpack what truly drives happiness and resilience at work, from small daily habits to creating cultures of laughter, connection and psychological safety. Tim also shares how leaders can strike a balance between optimism and honesty, helping their teams feel supported even through challenges.
In this episode, we cover:
About Tim
Dr. Tim Sharp, fondly known as Dr. Happy, is one of Australia’s leading voices in positive psychology, mental health and wellbeing. With three degrees in psychology, including a PhD, Tim has built an extraordinary career spanning clinical practice, academia, executive coaching, and corporate consulting. He is the founder and Chief Happiness Officer of The Happiness Institute, Australia’s first organisation dedicated solely to enhancing happiness in individuals, schools and workplaces.
As a best-selling author, keynote speaker, and podcaster, Tim has worked with everyone from schools and small teams to global organisations like Twitter, Coles, and Telstra. His books and Audible audiobooks, including Habits for Happiness at Work, provide practical tools for building resilience, positive culture and lasting wellbeing. With warmth, humour, and research-backed strategies, Tim helps people understand that happiness is not just about feeling good, but also doing good.
Links and Resources:
Explore our Well-Led Schools Partnership program
Thank you so much for listening. I’m so honoured that you’re here and would be so grateful if you could leave me a review on Apple Podcasts or on your preferred podcast app, so that we can inspire and educate even more people together.
Connect with Tim via:
His website: https://drhappy.com.au/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drtimsharp/
Connect with me via:
My website: adriennehornby.com.au
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adrienne-hornby-a4126a205/
Email: [email protected]
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode, I unpack the latest research, national survey data and emerging trends shaping the state of teacher wellbeing in 2025. Drawing on insights from thousands of educators across more than 60 Australian schools, I explore what’s really impacting teacher wellbeing.
You’ll learn why teachers are calling for more than resilience training and system reform; they’re asking for shifts in how schools operate on a day-to-day basis. From leadership practices to staff communication, professional support to school culture, I break down the patterns we can’t ignore, and the actions schools can take right now to build environments where staff and students thrive.
In this episode, I cover:
Links and Resources:
Read the full State of Teacher Wellbeing article
Download the PDF report
Explore our Staff Wellbeing Surveys
Thank you so much for listening. I’m so honoured that you’re here and would be so grateful if you could leave me a review on Apple Podcasts or on your preferred podcast app, so that we can inspire and educate even more people together.
Connect with me via:
My website: adriennehornby.com.au
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adrienne-hornby-a4126a205/
Email: [email protected]
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Have you ever felt awkward accepting a compliment or unsure how to show genuine appreciation to someone on your team without it feeling forced? In busy school environments, appreciation often gets reduced to coffee carts and morning teas. While well-intentioned, these gestures don’t always land in the way we hope. Many educators still walk away feeling unseen, undervalued, or even uncomfortable with recognition. So what gives?
In this episode, I chat with Daniela Falecki, an international speaker, coach, and founder of Teacher Wellbeing, to unpack what she calls The Appreciation Paradox. Drawing on decades of experience in education and the fields of Positive and Coaching Psychology, Daniela shares why meaningful appreciation is a wellbeing essential, not a fluffy extra. Together, we explore how schools can move beyond performative gestures to create a culture where staff feel truly seen, valued and motivated to keep showing up with heart.
In this episode, we cover:
About Daniela
Daniela Falecki, founder of Teacher Wellbeing, is an international speaker, author, and the “keep-it-real” teacher, known for her high-energy, engaging presentations that leave audiences laughing and thinking. With over 25 years of experience in Australian schools and a background in Positive Psychology and Coaching Psychology, Daniela empowers educators globally to enhance their wellbeing. She holds a Master’s in Education (Leadership) and has lectured at the University of Sydney, where she was named Lecturer of the Year in 2014. A licensed Mental Toughness practitioner and Executive Coach, Daniela is committed to supporting educators in thriving both personally and professionally.
Links and Resources:
Explore the Well-Led Schools Partnership Program
Free resources, publications and podcasts
www.teacher-wellbeing.com.au/resources
- Download a free eBook, “Foundations of Teacher Wellbeing”
- Join the newsletter list for fortnightly insights
Shop for card games and books
https://ppj18g-cz.myshopify.com/
Connect with Daniela via:
Her website: www.teacher-wellbeing.com.au/
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/daniela-falecki-76690325/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/teacherwellbeing/
Facebook: www.facebook.com/teacherwellbeing/
Connect with me via:
My website: adriennehornby.com.au
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adrienne-hornby-a4126a205/
Email: [email protected]
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Many schools face a common challenge: how to cultivate staff wellbeing and build a thriving culture amid fragmented efforts and wellbeing initiatives that often fall short or don’t last. Leaders want teams that feel connected, supported and energised, because when staff wellbeing flourishes, students benefit too, and the whole school community thrives. Yet, creating this kind of cohesive, sustainable wellbeing culture is far from straightforward.
In this episode, we welcome back David Kolpak, Principal at Trinity College North School and Visible Wellbeing Facilitator, with Professor Lee Waters. With over 30 years of education experience, David is a passionate advocate for whole-school wellbeing rooted in positive psychology and tailored to each school’s unique context. Drawing on his new book Thriving Together and years of national and international speaking, David shares powerful insights on building resilient teams, fostering growth mindsets, and embedding wellbeing in everyday school life. Together, we explore practical strategies and mindsets that help schools move beyond short-term fixes toward thriving communities.
In this episode, we cover:
About David
David Kolpak (MEd, BEd, BTeach) is the Principal of Trinity College North in Adelaide (EY–10), a role he has held for six years. With over 30 years of experience in education and leadership, David is a respected advocate for Positive Education and whole-school wellbeing. He has led the design and delivery of Positive Education programs spanning early years to Year 10, embedding positive psychology principles across curriculum and school culture.
David is an experienced national and international speaker, having presented at conferences such as the Positive Education Schools Association, the Positive Schools Conference, and the International Positive Psychology Association World Congress. A Visible Wellbeing Facilitator with Professor Lea Waters, David recently published his book Thriving Together, offering schools a practical blueprint for fostering flourishing learning communities through wellbeing and entrepreneurial mindsets. He is passionate about empowering students and staff to co-create positive environments that sustain wellbeing and growth.
Links and Resources:
Explore the Well-Led Schools Partnership Program
Listen to S1. Ep.10 with David Kolpak: Adopting a Positive and Nurturing Approach to Improving Staff Wellbeing with David Kolpak
Read David’s new book: Thriving Together: A Blueprint for Flourishing Staff and Students
Thank you so much for listening. I’m so honoured that you’re here and would be so grateful if you could leave me a review on Apple Podcasts or on your preferred podcast app, that way we can inspire and educate even more people together.
Connect with David via:
His website: www.davidkolpak.com.au/
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/david-kolpak-4932a6119/?originalSubdomain=au
Connect with me via:
My website: adriennehornby.com.au
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adrienne-hornby-a4126a205/
Email: [email protected]
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When a school team feels “a bit off”, it’s tempting to think it’s a people problem, but often, it’s a structure problem. How teams are set up, supported and expected to function plays a far greater role in their success than we might assume. Without clarity around roles, norms and purpose, even teams made up of good people can struggle to function at their best.
In this episode, I chat with Dr. Pete Stebbings, workplace psychologist and director of the High Performance Schools Program. Drawing on years of school-based leadership development, Pete shares practical strategies for building high-performing teams that thrive on clarity, trust and structure.
In this episode, we cover:
About Pete:
Dr. Pete Stebbins, PhD, is a Workplace Psychologist and executive coach, focusing on school leadership development and school improvement. He is the author of the best-selling books: ‘Leading Flourishing Schools’ and ‘iTeams: Why High Performance Teams Fit In AND Stand Out!’. Pete has many years of research and professional practice behind him and is the director of the High Performance Schools Program. His work in this space has reached 16 Countries, impacting more than 600 Schools, and over 5,500 School Leaders and their staff. Pete’s professional passions are developing high-performance teams and building high-capacity school culture.
Links and Resources:
Explore the Well-Led Schools Partnership Program
Articles Mentioned in the Episode:
Thank you so much for listening. I’m so honoured that you’re here and would be so grateful if you could leave me a review on Apple Podcasts or on your preferred podcast app, that way we can inspire and educate even more people together.
Connect with Pete via:
His websites: www.hptschools.com/ and www.drpetestebbins.com/
Email: [email protected]
Connect with me via:
My website: adriennehornby.com.au
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adrienne-hornby-a4126a205/
Email: [email protected]
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Educators across the country are burning out, feeling undervalued, and walking away from the profession in increasing numbers. While the headlines often focus on pay or staffing gaps, many of us working in schools know that the issues run far deeper. The loss of trust in teachers, unrealistic expectations, and a disconnect between policy and practice are all contributing to a school culture that feels increasingly unsustainable.
In this episode of the Well-Led Schools podcast, we’re joined by Brad Gaynor, an experienced education leader, coach, and passionate advocate for system-wide change.
With decades of frontline and leadership experience, Brad brings clarity, compassion, and practical wisdom to this complex conversation. Together, we unpack what’s really behind the teacher crisis and explore what needs to shift, both in mindset and in action, to rebuild trust, restore wellbeing and retain our best educators.
In this episode, we cover:
About Brad:
Brad is a respected education leader, budding author, and advocate for sustainable change in Australian schools.
With over 35 years of experience as a teacher, principal and education leader, Brad brings a grounded, frontline perspective to the complex realities facing today’s educators.
Brad currently supports schools and leaders in strategic improvement, leadership development, and school culture enhancement. Brad is passionate about building high-performing teams, leading change, and promoting leadership wellbeing. His strong background in policy, curriculum development, and reform has shaped his advocacy for practical, sustainable solutions in education.
Links and Resources:
Explore the Well-Led Schools Partnership Program
Articles Mentioned in the Episode:
Thank you so much for listening. I’m so honoured that you’re here and would be so grateful if you could leave me a review on Apple Podcasts or on your preferred podcast app, that way we can inspire and educate even more people together.
Connect with Brad via:
His website: bradgaynor.com.au
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brad-gaynor-92b68b53
On Instagram: @brad_coaching
Email: [email protected]
Connect with me via:
My website: adriennehornby.com.au
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adrienne-hornby-a4126a205/
Email: [email protected]
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Difficult conversations are a part of every educator’s world, whether it's addressing performance concerns, navigating team dynamics, or holding a student’s wellbeing at the center of a tough decision. But let’s be honest: many of us dread them. They’re uncomfortable, emotionally charged, and often feel easier to avoid. The problem is that avoiding these conversations can come at a high cost to trust, morale, and ultimately, the school's culture.
In this episode, I’m joined by leadership and culture expert Shane Michael Hatton, who has spent the past decade helping leaders across the globe communicate more effectively and build healthier, more connected teams. Shane shares practical insights and mindset shifts to help school leaders approach difficult conversations with more clarity, courage and compassion. Whether you’re a principal, middle leader, or classroom teacher, you’ll come away from this episode feeling more equipped to lean into the conversations that matter most.
In this episode, we explore:
About Shane:
Shane Michael Hatton is a globally recognised author, speaker, and leadership expert with over a decade of experience in helping leaders and teams thrive. Combining a strong foundation in business and psychology, Shane equips leaders to communicate with impact, build trust, and create high-performing team cultures. He’s the author of two books, including the bestselling Let’s Talk Culture – The Conversations You Need to Create the Team You Want, and the host of the podcast Phone Calls With Clever People.
Shane’s insights have been featured in renowned publications, including Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and The Australian. As an executive coach and facilitator, he’s worked with organisations across the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors, both in Australia and internationally. Today, Shane is on a mission to elevate how leaders think and talk about culture — one courageous conversation at a time.
Links and Resources:
Well-Led Schools Partnership Program
Watch Shane’s video series: Nine Leadership Shifts
https://shanemhatton.com/firsttimeleader/
Thank you so much for listening. I’m so honoured that you’re here and would be so grateful if you could leave me a review on Apple Podcasts or on your preferred podcast app, that way we can inspire and educate even more people together.
Connect with Shane via:
His website: shanehattonspeaks.com
Instagram: instagram.com/shanemhatton
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shanemhatton
Listen to his podcast: Phone Calls With Clever People Podcast
Connect with me via:
My website: adriennehornby.com.au
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/adrienne-hornby-a4126a205/
Email: [email protected]
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ever feel like your to-do list is never-ending, your inbox is overflowing, and no matter how hard you try to get ahead, you’re always playing catch-up? You’re not alone. As leaders and educators, we’re constantly juggling lesson planning, meetings, emails, student needs, and—oh yeah—our own lives. The weight of it all can feel overwhelming, and finding a sense of balance can seem impossible.
In this episode of the Well-Led Schools Podcast, I sit down with Michelle Gauthier, a life coach who specialises in helping high-achievers transform overwhelm into calm. Michelle knows firsthand what it’s like to live life on overdrive, and she’s made it her mission to help others create a more intentional and less stressful way of living.
Together, we unpack the root causes of overwhelm, how to shift our mindset, and—most importantly—practical strategies that will help you regain control of your time, energy and wellbeing. If you’re looking for realistic, actionable ways to manage stress and create a sense of calm (even in the busiest seasons), this episode is for you.
In this episode, we cover:
About Michelle:
Michelle Gauthier is a life coach dedicated to helping high achievers move from overwhelm to calm. After spending over 20 years in corporate America leading businesses through simplification and efficiency strategies, she took a leap into life coaching and never looked back. Since 2017, she’s helped hundreds of women reduce stress, create clarity, and build more intentional lives. She’s also the host of Overwhelmed Working Woman, where she shares practical tools to help busy professionals find balance—without guilt.
When she’s not coaching, Michelle is a single mom to two teenagers and a dog mom to Pippi. She’s an adventurer at heart. She believes in the power of less is more and is on a mission to help people create lives that feel calmer, more organised and full of joy.
Links and Resources:
Explore our Staff Wellbeing Survey Packages: https://adriennehornby.com.au/staff-survey/
Thank you so much for listening. I’m so honoured that you’re here and would be so grateful if you could leave me a review on Apple Podcasts or on your preferred podcast app, that way we can inspire and educate even more people together.
Connect with Michelle via:
Her Website: www.michellegauthier.com
On Instagram: @michellegauthiercoaching
Listen to her podcast: Overwhelmed Working Woman
Episode 51: Create Productivity Without Overwhelm This Week With The "Calendar Clean-Out Method"
Check out her free resources:
Discover the root causes of your overwhelm with this free quiz
Stop Feeling Overwhelmed Guide
Fresh Start Morning Worksheet and Mini Course
Connect with me via:
My website: adriennehornby.com.au
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/adrienne-hornby-a4126a205/
Email: [email protected]
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From the publisher's feed
As the rates of professional stress and burnout increase for school leaders, teachers and staff, the solution lies in how we lead our schools and prioritise workplace wellbeing to become "Well-Led"…
Join experienced Wellbeing Consultant, Strategist, Speaker and School Leader Adrienne Hornby for a host of inspiring conversations with experts and forward thinkers. Covering all things teacher wellbeing, school leadership and culture building - you'll walk away with ideas and recommendations on ways to evolve your leadership, create a mentally healthy workplace and ultimately influence the lives and learning of our students.