The School Run

The School Run with Jane & Liv

The School Run Podcast is co- hosted by mum (Jane) and daughter (Liv) we focus on topics which you weren't taught at school e.g. personal development, effective communication, relationships, health, well-being & so many more. We offer insights from two generations, helping you to build your dream life. Each episode provides practical advice and tasks to implement immediately, encouraging growth and self-improvement. The aim is to inspire you to become the best version of yourself, dream big and bet on yourself. Liv was 15 years old when she started the podcast with her mum in 2023.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    E171: Finding purpose through pain and lived experience

    In this heartfelt episode of The School Run Podcast, Jane is joined by Lynsey Clarke— wife, mum of two, chartered surveyor, and now trainee naturopathic nutritionist, naturopath and homeopath. Lynsey shares how she followed the traditional path from school to university and into a secure professional career, only to realise later in life that security and success do not always equal passion or purpose. This conversation explores grief, motherhood, career change, confidence, and the courage it takes to question the path you thought you were supposed to follow. Lynsey speaks openly about losing her dad to suicide, navigating life on the “hamster wheel”, and how her son Hugo’s health journey led her to explore natural health, nutrition, naturopathy and homeopathy. Together, Jane and Lynsey discuss: * Why school often prepares us to work for someone else, but not necessarily to follow our own path * The pressure children feel to perform academically * Why every child has something amazing to share * The importance of trusting your instincts as a parent * How lived experience can become purpose * Why confidence often comes from pushing outside your comfort zone * The power of questioning systems while still seeking support * How it is never too late to change direction This episode is honest, emotional and deeply thought-provoking — a reminder that sometimes the hardest chapters of our lives lead us towards the work we are truly meant to do. Please note: Lynsey shares her personal lived experience and views in this episode. This conversation is not intended as medical advice. Always seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional when making decisions about health, treatment or medication. Podcasts for us are all about learning and sharing, of course free to listen to. We have some small costs to cover so if you would like to buy us a virtual cup of tea /coffee when we are planning them out please click here https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theschoolrun \ Get In Touch: Of course, you can always get in touch with us (publicly or privately) on our socials @‌theschoolrun_official / @‌mrsjanejames on Instagram, or search and follow Jane James on Facebook. We'd love to hear your story - please get in touch with us directly at jane@littlevoices.org.uk Links: For information on Jane’s company Little Voices head to http://www.littlevoices.org.uk⁠⁠ @littlevoiceslimited You will often hear references to The Olive Jar to find out more follow @theolivejarcourse www.theolivejar.online ‌ Disclaimer: All views expressed in this podcast are of the participants themselves. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk. We are just a mum and daughter, sharing their thoughts and chatting with guests that we really respect and sharing our personal stories and insights. Please seek professional advice if you need it. This episode is edited by Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

    1hr 6min
  2. 4 MAY

    E170: Liv’s back with her real life learnings

    What if the most important lessons in life… were never taught in school? In this very special episode of The School Run Podcast, we do something we’ve never done before in over three and a half years—no guest, no interview… just a real, raw and honest life update. Jane hands the mic over to Liv—co-founder of the podcast—who shares what life has really been like since stepping away from the show and into the world of work. After navigating a challenging A-Level experience and feeling uncertain about her next steps, Liv opens up about how she found her path through a degree apprenticeship—and what she’s learned just four months into corporate life. From fear of picking up the phone… to making 100 calls a week. From tears in the bathroom at her first networking event… to building real confidence. From self-doubt… to discovering her voice in a whole new way. This episode is full of the lessons young people (and adults!) are rarely taught: * Why doing the thing that scares you changes everything * The power of persistence (even when no one replies!) * How confidence is built—not something you’re born with * Why relationships matter more than job titles * And how life experience often teaches us more than qualifications ever could Liv also reflects on how The School Run Podcast and Little Voices helped shape the skills that opened doors for her—and why she knows this isn’t the end of her podcast journey… just the beginning of a new chapter. Whether you’re a parent, a young person finding your way, or someone navigating change—this episode will remind you that there is no one path… only your path. And you’re allowed to grow into it. Podcasts for us are all about learning and sharing, of course free to listen to. We have some small costs to cover so if you would like to buy us a virtual cup of tea /coffee when we are planning them out please click here https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theschoolrun \ Get In Touch: Of course, you can always get in touch with us (publicly or privately) on our socials @‌theschoolrun_official / @‌mrsjanejames on Instagram, or search and follow Jane James on Facebook. We'd love to hear your story - please get in touch with us directly at jane@littlevoices.org.uk Links: For information on Jane’s company Little Voices head to http://www.littlevoices.org.uk⁠⁠ @littlevoiceslimited You will often hear references to The Olive Jar to find out more follow @theolivejarcourse www.theolivejar.online ‌ Disclaimer: All views expressed in this podcast are of the participants themselves. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk. We are just a mum and daughter, sharing their thoughts and chatting with guests that we really respect and sharing our personal stories and insights. Please seek professional advice if you need it. This episode is edited by Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

    18 min
  3. 27 APR

    E169: When the Student Becomes the Teacher: The Sarah Dover Story

    In this episode of The School Run, Jane is joined by the multi-talented Sarah Dover, professional singer, teacher, and performer whose journey from a 10-year-old history-making chorister to a "weddings and events extraordinaire" is nothing short of inspiring. Jane and Sarah share a unique bond; not only did Sarah teach for Little Voices, but they both trained under the same renowned vocal coach, Jane Irwin. Sarah opens up about the highs of performing, the physical and mental battle of undergoing major spinal surgery at 16, and why she is passionate about protecting the creative spark in every child. In This Episode, we Discuss: • Breaking History: Sarah’s experience as one of the first girl choristers at Durham Cathedral in 800 years. • Resilience through Recovery: The terrifying moment Sarah lost her voice due to major spinal surgery & how she fought to get it back for Chetham’s School of Music. • The "Squiggly" Career: Transitioning from the high-pressure world of opera to building a flourishing wedding and events business. • The Creative Classroom: Why music teachers are the gatekeepers of personality in a rigid education system. • Confidence as a Tool: What it means to "sound like enough" and why you should never listen to the people who say "you can't." Connect with Sarah Dover: • Instagram: @sarahdovermusic Support The School Run: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider buying us a virtual coffee! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theschoolrun Podcasts for us are all about learning and sharing, of course free to listen to. We have some small costs to cover so if you would like to buy us a virtual cup of tea /coffee when we are planning them out please click here https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theschoolrun \ Get In Touch: Of course, you can always get in touch with us (publicly or privately) on our socials @‌theschoolrun_official / @‌mrsjanejames on Instagram, or search and follow Jane James on Facebook. We'd love to hear your story - please get in touch with us directly at jane@littlevoices.org.uk Links: For information on Jane’s company Little Voices head to http://www.littlevoices.org.uk⁠⁠ @littlevoiceslimited You will often hear references to The Olive Jar to find out more follow @theolivejarcourse www.theolivejar.online ‌ Disclaimer: All views expressed in this podcast are of the participants themselves. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk. We are just a mum and daughter, sharing their thoughts and chatting with guests that we really respect and sharing our personal stories and insights. Please seek professional advice if you need it. This episode is edited by Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

    58 min
  4. 20 APR

    E168: Why Your Childhood Passions Are the Compass for Your Future - Jaynee Pooley

    What do you wish school had taught you about understanding yourself? In this episode of The School Run, Jane is joined by Jayne Marie Pooley (Jaynee), a marketing expert of 30 years now Creative Therapist and Little Voices Principal. Jaynee shares her incredible journey from being inspired by J.R.R. Tolkien’s son to navigating a terrifying family health crisis that led her back to her true passion: the arts. We dive deep into why "joining the dots" of your life matters, the power of listening to build resilience in children, and how to find your "Ikigai” In This Episode, We Discuss: ​ The Squiggly Career: How Jaynee transitioned from high-level marketing for tech giants like Microsoft to running her own Little Voices franchise.​ Creativity as Healing: The moving story of how singing and drawing helped Jaynee’s daughter recover from a sudden illness.​ Neurodiversity in Education: Why rigid curriculums often miss a child’s true potential and the importance of creative problem-solving.​ Finding Your Tribe: Jaynee’s experience joining the Little Voices network and why she felt like she was "coming home."​ The Power of a "No-Connectivity" School Run: A beautiful memory of a simple walk home that changed everything. Connect with Jaynee: ​ Website: www.littlevoices.org.uk/cotswolds​ Social Media: littlevoicescotswolds​ Email: cotswolds@littlevoices.org.uk Podcasts for us are all about learning and sharing, of course free to listen to. We have some small costs to cover so if you would like to buy us a virtual cup of tea /coffee when we are planning them out please click here https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theschoolrun \ Get In Touch: Of course, you can always get in touch with us (publicly or privately) on our socials \@‌theschoolrun_official / \@‌mrsjanejames on Instagram, or search and follow Jane James on Facebook. We'd love to hear your story - please get in touch with us directly at jane@littlevoices.org.uk Links: For information on Jane’s company Little Voices head to http://www.littlevoices.org.uk⁠⁠ @littlevoiceslimited You will often hear references to The Olive Jar to find out more follow @theolivejarcourse www.theolivejar.online ‌ Disclaimer: All views expressed in this podcast are of the participants themselves. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk. We are just a mum and daughter, sharing their thoughts and chatting with guests that we really respect and sharing our personal stories and insights. Please seek professional advice if you need it. This episode is edited by Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

    55 min
  5. 13 APR

    E167: Early Warning Signs & Everyday Champions: Why Safeguarding is Everyone’s Business

    What does it mean to be a "Child Champion"? In this week’s episode of The School Run, Jane is joined by the world-renowned safeguarding consultant, Ann-Marie Christian. From her early days as a foster sister to her 30-year career as a registered social worker and international consultant, Ann-Marie shares her deeply personal journey of advocacy. Together, they discuss the evolution of child protection, the "affluent neglect" often overlooked in wealthy communities, and how we can empower our children to listen to their "early warning signs. In this episode, we discuss: ​ The Origins of Passion: How a childhood encounter with a neighbour in distress and growing up in a fostering household shaped Ann-Marie’s career.​ The Evolution of Safeguarding: Moving from "welfare" to a proactive culture of empowerment and the impact of the #MeToo movement.​ Listening to the Body: How to teach children to recognise their "early warning signs"—from racing hearts to tummy aches.​ Affluent Neglect: Breaking the myth that safeguarding issues only happen in disadvantaged areas.​ Legacy & Inspiration: A tribute to Ann-Marie’s 93-year-old mother, the original "magic" welfare officer.Connect with Ann-Marie Christian: ​ Website: https://annmariechristian.com/​ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ann-marie-christian-frsa ​ Specialism: International Safeguarding, DSL Training, and Cultural Competence.Brought to you by Little Voices: Nurturing confidence and big futures through drama and singing. Podcasts for us are all about learning and sharing, of course free to listen to. We have some small costs to cover so if you would like to buy us a virtual cup of tea /coffee when we are planning them out please click here https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theschoolrun \ Get In Touch: Of course, you can always get in touch with us (publicly or privately) on our socials @‌theschoolrun_official / @‌mrsjanejames on Instagram, or search and follow Jane James on Facebook. We'd love to hear your story - please get in touch with us directly at jane@littlevoices.org.uk Links: For information on Jane’s company Little Voices head to http://www.littlevoices.org.uk⁠⁠ @littlevoiceslimited You will often hear references to The Olive Jar to find out more follow @theolivejarcourse www.theolivejar.online ‌ Disclaimer: All views expressed in this podcast are of the participants themselves. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk. We are just a mum and daughter, sharing their thoughts and chatting with guests that we really respect and sharing our personal stories and insights. Please seek professional advice if you need it. This episode is edited by Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

    1hr 1min
  6. 6 APR

    E166: There’s a Genius in Every Child: Rethinking Education, Confidence & Life Skills - Aatif Hassan

    There’s a Genius in Every Child: Rethinking Education, Confidence & Life Skills with Aatif Hassan, Dukes Education What if the child who struggles in school today is actually sitting on their greatest strength? In this powerful episode of The School Run, Jane sits down with education leader and founder of Dukes Education, Aatif, to explore what education gets right… and what it’s still missing. From being expelled at 13 to building a global education group, this is a story of resilience, belief, and the power of the right teacher at the right time. Together, Jane and Aatif dive into: ​Why ADHD and dyslexia can be superpowers​The life-changing impact of one great teacher​What a truly great school feels like​Why confidence is the foundation of everything​The missing pieces in education:👉 emotional literacy 👉 financial literacy 👉 digital wisdom ​How the military shaped leadership, resilience and decision-making​Why failure might be the most important thing we teach children​The importance of human connection in an AI-driven world You’ll also hear: ​Why children should have a voice in shaping education​The concept of a “bounce quotient” (and why it matters more than IQ)​What Aatif would say to his younger self​And the one simple habit every child should build early: reading @dukes_education Linkedin ………. dukes-education Dukes Education is the largest premium education group in the UK and one of the fastest-growing families of schools in Europe. Dukes Education was founded by Aatif Hassan in 2015 to give young people an outstanding start in life. The Dukes family now has 63 education brands and over 80 settings, across 11 countries, supporting more than 24,000 pupils and nearly 5,000 staff. Dukes also operates a number of leading summer short courses, university and medical school consultancies, immersive career experience providers, and one-to-one student support offerings, creating a cradle-to-career suite of services. 💬 Jane’s Reflection: “This episode reminded me that every child has something incredible to share we just need to create the space for it to be seen.” 🎧 Whether you’re a parent, educator, or someone passionate about helping young people thrive, this conversation will leave you thinking differently about what success really looks like. Podcasts for us are all about learning and sharing, of course free to listen to. We have some small costs to cover so if you would like to buy us a virtual cup of tea /coffee when we are planning them out please click here https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theschoolrun \ Get In Touch: Of course, you can always get in touch with us (publicly or privately) on our socials @‌theschoolrun_official / @‌mrsjanejames on Instagram, or search and follow Jane James on Facebook. We'd love to hear your story - please get in touch with us directly at jane@littlevoices.org.uk Links: For information on Jane’s company Little Voices head to http://www.littlevoices.org.uk⁠⁠ @littlevoiceslimited You will often hear references to The Olive Jar to find out more follow @theolivejarcourse www.theolivejar.online ‌ Disclaimer: All views expressed in this podcast are of the participants themselves. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk. We are just a mum and daughter, sharing their thoughts and chatting with guests that we really respect and sharing our personal stories and insights. Please seek professional advice if you need it. This episode is edited by Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

    46 min
  7. 30 MAR

    E165: Cultivating Confidence: Unlocking Your Potential with Sam Sloan

    What if the life you really want is waiting on the other side of courage? In this episode of The School Run with Jane – Little Voices, Big Stories, Jane is joined by leadership coach and aviation specialist Sam Sloan, Director of 123 People Development and Resilient Pilot. Sam has spent over two decades developing people, leaders and teams: first through a successful career in retail leadership and now through coaching, leadership development and aviation training. But beneath all of that work lies a powerful question: How much of your potential have you actually activated? This conversation explores confidence, curiosity, courage and the mindset shifts that help people move forward in their lives and careers. Sam also shares the story behind her newest project Cultivating Confidence, a Bravery Boot Camp, designed to help women reconnect with dreams, ambitions and possibilities they may have put on hold. Together, Jane and Sam discuss: ✨ What confidence really means ✨ Why curiosity is the key to great leadership ✨ The power of coaching conversations ✨ Why we aren’t taught how to ask good questions at school ✨ How Sam combined leadership development with aviation training ✨ The courage it takes to start your own business ✨ What holds people back from activating their potential ✨ The difference between mentoring and coaching ✨ Why it’s never too late to change direction ✨ How to recognise the signs of your natural strengths Sam also reflects on the mentors and leaders who shaped her path, and the simple yet powerful mindset that drives her forward: “What else is possible?” This episode is for anyone who has ever wondered if they are capable of more. Because sometimes the only thing standing between you and your next chapter is the courage to ask a better question. ⸻ About Sam Sloan Sam Sloan is the Director of 123 People Development, specialising in leadership and coaching. She also serves as Director of Learning and Development at Resilient Pilot, supporting pilots and aviation professionals through coaching and development programmes. Sam combines her passion for leadership, human potential and aviation to create powerful development programmes that help individuals and organisations unlock performance and confidence. She is also co-creator of Cultivating Confidence – a Bravery Boot Camp, helping women rediscover purpose, courage and possibility. Samantha Sloan on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-sloan-123pd Little Voices www.littlevoices.org.uk Support the podcast www.buymeacoffee.com/theschoolrun Podcasts for us are all about learning and sharing, of course free to listen to. We have some small costs to cover so if you would like to buy us a virtual cup of tea /coffee when we are planning them out please click here https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theschoolrun Get In Touch: Of course, you can always get in touch with us (publicly or privately) on our socials \@‌theschoolrun_official / \@‌mrsjanejames on Instagram, or search and follow Jane James on Facebook. We'd love to hear your story - please get in touch with us directly at jane@littlevoices.org.uk Links: For information on Jane’s company Little Voices head to http://www.littlevoices.org.uk⁠⁠ @littlevoiceslimited You will often hear references to The Olive Jar to find out more follow @theolivejarcourse www.theolivejar.online ‌ Disclaimer: All views expressed in this podcast are of the participants themselves. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk. We are just a mum and daughter, sharing their thoughts and chatting with guests that we really respect and sharing our personal stories and insights. Please seek professional advice if you need it. This episode is edited by Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

    54 min
  8. 23 MAR

    E164: Connections that count: Music, Confidence and the Ripple Effect with Susan Bisatt

    What do music, drama, confidence, education and lifelong learning all have in common? Connection. In this episode of The School Run with Jane – Little Voices, Big Stories, Jane is joined by the wonderful Susan Bisatt — highly respected soprano, educator, vocal specialist, former Principal of Little Voices Stockport, and recently retired lecturer in Primary Music at Manchester Metropolitan University. Susan has spent decades working at the highest level in both music and education, shaping lives through performance, teaching and leadership. From growing up in York with access to the arts, to training at conservatoire, performing professionally, working in education outreach, teaching future teachers, and leading within Little Voices, Susan reflects on the many threads that have connected her career and the ripple effect those connections create. This is a thoughtful, uplifting conversation about the power of the arts, the importance of safe and creative spaces for children, and why music and drama are about so much more than performance. This episode is full of warmth, wisdom and a beautiful reminder that when children feel safe, seen and supported, they flourish. About Susan Bisatt Susan is a highly respected soprano, educator and vocal specialist. She recently retired from her role as Lecturer in Primary Music at Manchester Metropolitan University, where she helped shape the next generation of teachers. She also spent more than 10 years as Principal of Little Voices Stockport, helping hundreds of children grow in confidence through music and drama. Susan continues to champion the value of the arts and is also part of Impropera, an improvising operatic ensemble bringing creativity and musical brilliance together in a completely unique way. Links mentioned in this episode: • Little Voices: littlevoices.org.uk • Impropera • Cultural Learning Alliance: culturallearningalliance.org.uk • Buy Me a Coffee: www.buymeacoffee.com/theschoolrun Connect with us: • Podcast Instagram: @theschoolrun_official • Little Voices: @littlevoiceslimited If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, leave a review, and share it with someone who would love it too. Your support helps us keep these conversations going. Podcasts for us are all about learning and sharing, of course free to listen to. We have some small costs to cover so if you would like to buy us a virtual cup of tea /coffee when we are planning them out please click here https://www.buymeacoffee.com/theschoolrun \ Get In Touch: Of course, you can always get in touch with us (publicly or privately) on our socials \@‌theschoolrun_official / \@‌mrsjanejames on Instagram, or search and follow Jane James on Facebook. We'd love to hear your story - please get in touch with us directly at jane@littlevoices.org.uk Links: For information on Jane’s company Little Voices head to http://www.littlevoices.org.uk⁠⁠ @littlevoiceslimited You will often hear references to The Olive Jar to find out more follow @theolivejarcourse www.theolivejar.online ‌ Disclaimer: All views expressed in this podcast are of the participants themselves. The information, opinions, and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only and any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk. We are just a mum and daughter, sharing their thoughts and chatting with guests that we really respect and sharing our personal stories and insights. Please seek professional advice if you need it. This episode is edited by Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

    59 min

About

The School Run Podcast is co- hosted by mum (Jane) and daughter (Liv) we focus on topics which you weren't taught at school e.g. personal development, effective communication, relationships, health, well-being & so many more. We offer insights from two generations, helping you to build your dream life. Each episode provides practical advice and tasks to implement immediately, encouraging growth and self-improvement. The aim is to inspire you to become the best version of yourself, dream big and bet on yourself. Liv was 15 years old when she started the podcast with her mum in 2023.

You Might Also Like