Stepping into [ed]Leadership

Rachel McCall and Toni Maddock
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A podcast for leaders at every stage in their educational leadership journey. We explore the motivations and stories of how people entered into leadership, what their roles entail and their contributions to the current educational landscape. We shine a light on middle leadership and how this first step into formal leadership can be supported to grow our future generations of school leaders.

  1. The Heart of Community - Emma Grave 1/3 - Stepping into [ed]Leadership

    1D AGO

    The Heart of Community - Emma Grave 1/3 - Stepping into [ed]Leadership

    Emma Grave – The Heart of Community In this first episode of a three‑part series, we chat with Emma Grave as she prepares to step into her first principalship at Scots PGC in regional Queensland later this year. Emma’s career has taken her from Ballarat, to 15 years at Geelong Grammar, to Deputy roles at Seymour College and now Scotch College Adelaide, with experience as Head of House, curriculum leader and Head of Boarding along the way. We discuss how a simple family mantra – 'be the best at whatever you are doing' – has shaped her work ethic, her belief that relationships sit at the heart of schools, and being a calm, reliable presence in complex moments. Emma shares on the boarding experience, describing it as both the hardest and most rewarding job in education, and the best preparation for the “productive chaos” of principalship. We also go inside the principal recruitment process: being assessed from the first phone call, doing the homework on culture and finances, crafting a board presentation and learning to speak as the principal now, not one day’ Emma talks candidly about claiming her ambition early, holding firmer boundaries to protect her family and wellbeing, and embracing a ‘professional escape to the country’ – sharing her excitement about living on campus, and immersing herself in a tight‑knit rural community. Across the episode, Emma shows us what it looks like to pursue principalship with humility, courage and a deep commitment to the life of a school community. We are so excited to follow Emma on this journey and grateful for her openness and honesty about her professional journey. Credits: Podcast theme music composed by Julian Ferraretto Logo Design by Meredith Baker Photography by Carmen Roberts

    1h 5m
  2. Understanding people - Being the Head collaboration - Stepping into [ed]Leadership

    FEB 22

    Understanding people - Being the Head collaboration - Stepping into [ed]Leadership

    Being the head - Understanding people In this special collaborative episode of Stepping into [ed]Leadership, we join forces with the UK-based Being The Head podcast to explore what it really means to lead with humanity first and outcomes second. Drawing on Jane and Jacquie’s rich experience as head teachers, we dive into the emotional labour of leadership, the invisible work of holding communities together, and the moral purpose that keeps leaders anchored in helping students be fit and ready for the next stage of their lives. Across the conversation, we unpack the complex pressures facing school leaders in the UK: post‑COVID attendance, recruitment and retention, the five‑year exodus from teaching, and the weight of accountability frameworks such as OFSTED. Jane and Jacquie speak candidly about emotional accountability, the tragic consequences of unrelenting pressure, and how school improvement can and should be more collaborative, with leaders feeling supported rather than judged. We also explore the deeply human side of headship. Jane and Jacquie share practical wisdom on emotional intelligence, listening over doing, training people to have difficult conversations, and why leadership is really very little about authority and much more about influence and connection. Throughout the episode, we return to wellbeing, boundaries and modelling a sustainable life: “eating the frogs for breakfast,” protecting time for exercise, and creating safe spaces for principals to offload through mentoring, supervision and deep reflective conversations. Ultimately, this is a hopeful conversation about reimagining leadership so that no one leads alone, leadership is valued for its humanity, and impact is found not just in big metrics but in the quiet wins - watching people grow, flourish and discover their own influence. Credits: Podcast theme music composed by Julian Ferraretto Logo Design by Meredith Baker Photography by Carmen Roberts

    1h 9m
  3. People Come First - Dr Adrian Camm - Stepping into [ed]Leadership

    FEB 8

    People Come First - Dr Adrian Camm - Stepping into [ed]Leadership

    In our first episode for Season 3 of Stepping into [ed]Leadership, we sit down with Dr Adrian Camm, Principal of Westbourne Grammar and 2025 Educator Principal of the Year.  In a far reaching conversation, Adrian shares what it really means to lead with the conviction that people come first, drawing on his leadership journey and the experiences, and opportunities that have shaped his approach. He talks about having a clear plan, working hard for the next step, and being courageous enough to “just do it,” even when it means being comfortable with being uncomfortable. A strong theme throughout our conversation is intentional leadership: building and communicating a vision where people feel seen, valued and heard, and where student and community voice are central to strategy and decision-making. Adrian shares what distributed leadership looks like in practice, the importance of trust and decision-making at the right level, and how seeking mentoring and feedback can become a springboard for genuine growth. We discuss actionable ways leaders can build skills in areas such as change management, difficult conversations, financial governance and strategic thinking, and how adopting a coaching approach can be transformative when it comes to leadership. We also delve into sustaining energy and hope in the work: finding the good, staying curious about ideas beyond education (including AI), and creating cultures where everyone learns together. We reflect on what great leadership looks like today: democratic, decisive, self-aware and deeply authentic. Throughout our conversation, Adrian returns to a powerful throughline: innovation and impact emerge when leaders prioritise self-care, communicate clearly and consistently, and keep people and their growth at the centre of every decision. We know you will get a lot out of this conversation and feel inspired to take you next intentional steps! You can hear more from Adrian on his podcast with Teagan Collins;  The Principal’s Perspective https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-principals-perspective/id1814253683 Credits: Podcast theme music composed by Julian Ferraretto Logo Design by Meredith Baker Photography by Carmen Roberts

    1h 9m
  4. Stepping into [ed]Leadership with Jamie Clark

    11/02/2025

    Stepping into [ed]Leadership with Jamie Clark

    Keep the why, change the how In this episode, we’re joined by Jamie Clark, Head of Professional Growth at Mercedes College in Perth and author of the popular OnePagers series. An English teacher at heart, Jamie shares his deep commitment to teaching and learning, reflecting on his journey from classroom practice in the UK to leading professional growth initiatives grounded in research, trust, and psychological safety. He speaks about starting small, whether through 15-minute professional learning sessions or informal coaching, and how those moments can spark meaningful, sustained development across a school. Jamie unpacks his philosophy of “pedagogy first, technology second,” sharing insights into overcoming barriers like time pressure and cognitive overload. He delves into the importance of narrowing the toolkit, creating a shared language, and building coaching relationships that uplift teachers through partnership, feedback, and reflection. He emphasises vulnerability, clarity, and the relational groundwork needed for real change to take hold. We also explore Jamie’s much-loved OnePagers; concise visual summaries that provide access to research-based strategies and help teachers connect theory to classroom practice. By reducing cognitive load for teachers, they’ve become a cornerstone for growth conversations and professional learning communities. Jamie closes by reflecting on leadership, sustaining change, and leaving a lasting legacy built on curiosity, generosity, and a deep desire to help others thrive. Credits: Podcast theme music composed by Julian Ferraretto Logo Design by Meredith Baker Photography by Carmen Roberts

    1h 6m
  5. Stepping into [ed]Leadership with Kerri Proctor

    10/19/2025

    Stepping into [ed]Leadership with Kerri Proctor

    Professional nourishment In this episode, Kerri Proctor shares her journey from classroom teacher to middle leader and now executive, reflecting on the power of professional dialogue. She highlights the unique learning that comes from collaboration and leading with humility, emphasizing that culture and community always come before strategy. We discuss the challenges and gifts of middle leadership, including the ever-present imposter syndrome, the balance of operational and strategic responsibilities, and the profound impact middle leaders have as stewards and connectors in a school. Kerri opens up about the steep learning curve that comes with stepping into higher leadership, from trusting her intuition and building strong relationships to navigating time management, policy, and wellbeing. We explore the critical role of learning communities, personalised professional growth, and creating an environment where all staff feel seen, heard, and respected. Kerri advocates for a culture of reflection, invitational feedback, and finding what nourishes each teacher, reminding us that real growth is a journey for both new and experienced educators. Our conversation also delves into Kerri’s transformative cultural immersion trip to Arnhem Land, where she learned the power of slowing down, listening deeply, and leading with curiosity. She reveals how these experiences align with her approach to leadership; focusing on trust, values, and bringing out the best in every member of the school community. Kerri encourages educators to say yes to new opportunities, celebrate each person’s unique contribution, and always ask, “Is this best for our students and our community?” Credits: Podcast theme music composed by Julian Ferraretto Logo Design by Meredith Baker Photography by Carmen Roberts

    49 min
  6. Stepping into [ed]Leadership with Mathew D'Aloisio

    10/05/2025

    Stepping into [ed]Leadership with Mathew D'Aloisio

    Leading leaders In our conversation with Senior Middle Leader Mathew D’Aloisio, we explore how understanding self, shapes leadership and influence. With much of his career in leadership roles, Mathew sees this work as a calling centred on creating lightbulb moments for both students and colleagues. He reflects on moving in and out of formal roles, navigating imposter syndrome, and asking the key question: why do people want to follow me? We discuss how teaching and leading identities intertwine, and how relational approaches can extend impact well beyond the classroom.   We also explore the power of intentionality in leadership growth. Mathew shares the deliberate steps he has taken such as shadowing leaders, acting in roles, and engaging in professional learning. He speaks about courage, safe spaces to declare aspirations, and how even rejection can fuel growth and imagination. Through his focus on appreciation and differentiation for both students and teachers, Mathew shows how leadership is about elevating others as much as developing ourselves.   Our discussion also turns to the personal side of leadership, including the need for balance, boundaries, and the practices that sustain him like reading, cooking, and connection. Mathew reflects on being a “bridge” between teaching and leading, and we discuss how trust, intentionality and connectedness create the conditions for leadership that is relational, empowering, and deeply human.   Join us for an inspiring deep dive into the value of understanding self and ways to expand your impact.   Credits: Podcast theme music composed by Julian Ferraretto Logo Design by Meredith Baker Photography by Carmen Roberts

    1 hr
  7. Stepping into [ed]Leadership with Ramya Deepak Kumar

    09/21/2025

    Stepping into [ed]Leadership with Ramya Deepak Kumar

    Experimenting with Success In this inspiring episode, Ramya Deepak Kumar shares her journey from research science to the classroom, bringing her thirst for learning and passion for education into every role. She reflects on the steep learning curve of teaching all subjects in a primary school class, the value of high expectations, and how visible learning empowers students to take ownership of their growth. Ramya demonstrates the importance of making learning engaging and accessible for every child through a range of strategies we discuss in our conversation. Ramya discusses the impact of modelling curiosity, vulnerability, and self-regulation, both for students and colleagues. She emphasises how reflection and metacognitive questioning help students, parents, and teachers build capacity together, extending growth into the home-school partnership. Her leadership journey is rooted in thinking beyond her own classroom, to a wider circle of influence, showing how empowering those around us can lead to greater collective success. Throughout our conversation, Ramya shares valuable practical advice for aspiring leaders: seek out professional learning, be proactive in doubling your learning each year, and never be afraid to experiment with what works for your students. Her message is clear - growth, legacy, and lifelong learning should remain at the centre of our purpose, and equity must underpin our vision for the future of education. Credits: Podcast theme music composed by Julian Ferraretto Logo Design by Meredith Baker Photography by Carmen Roberts

    1h 13m
  8. Stepping into [ed]Leadership with Steven Trotter

    09/07/2025

    Stepping into [ed]Leadership with Steven Trotter

    Reflecting on self Our conversation with Principal Steven Trotter explores his journey of self-reflection, leadership, and adaptability in education. He shares insights from his story of origin, emphasizing how each new role required him to become a different kind of leader and how understanding both self and the needs of others is at the heart of effective leadership. His perspective on building trust, making thoughtful decisions, and embracing the power of pausing, highlighting that even mistakes become opportunities for growth when our intentions are grounded in care for the community and those we serve, are powerful lessons. Steve also walks us through his SKIM model from his popular book, the Art of Skimming Stones. Our chat explores practical strategies that foster responsive and innovative leadership experiences. We also hear about Kelpie Camp, which teaches student leaders about relationship building and the importance of clear communication. We discuss the human element of leadership, including the challenges posed by unpredictability, embedding values and beliefs, and the importance of reducing cognitive load for teachers to help them thrive. This episode offers actionable steps and deeply human insights for all educational leaders. Steve reminds us that leading in complex school environments demands versatility, compassion, and a genuine privilege in serving others, encouraging us to reflect, respond, and choose optimism in our work every day. We left the conversation feeling uplifted and inspired – we know you will too! Credits: Podcast theme music composed by Julian Ferraretto Logo Design by Meredith Baker Photography by Carmen Roberts

    1h 13m
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About

A podcast for leaders at every stage in their educational leadership journey. We explore the motivations and stories of how people entered into leadership, what their roles entail and their contributions to the current educational landscape. We shine a light on middle leadership and how this first step into formal leadership can be supported to grow our future generations of school leaders.

Information

  • Creator
    Rachel McCall and Toni Maddock
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2024 Stepping into [ed]Leadership Rachel McCall and Toni Maddock
  • Show Website
    Stepping into [ed]Leadership

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