dare to be more

MLC School

Welcome to "dare to be more," the podcast that explores the transformative power of girls' education. In each episode, we tap into the deep expertise and forward-thinking perspectives of the educators, leaders, and professionals who shape the learning environment at MLC School in Burwood. Through thoughtful conversations, we uncover the philosophies, innovations, and practices that empower girls to thrive—academically, creatively, and personally. Whether you're an educator, a parent, a student, a past student, or simply passionate about the future of girls education, join us as we celebrate the ideas and people that inspire our girls to ‘dare to be more’.

  1. Digital Learning and Wellbeing | dare to be more podcast with Marianna Carlino

    May 20

    Digital Learning and Wellbeing | dare to be more podcast with Marianna Carlino

    In this forward-thinking episode of "Dare to Be More," host Anthony Perl speaks with Marianna Carlino, Director of e-Learning at MLC School, about how technology is woven into every aspect of school life — and how MLC is leading the way in preparing girls to use it responsibly, creatively, and confidently. Marianna covers everything from touch typing in Year 2 to AI ethics in Year 12, and shares how MLC's triangular approach — connecting students, staff, and parents — ensures everyone is on the same page when it comes to digital citizenship. Featured Guest: Marianna Carlino, Director of e-Learning at MLC School In This Episode, You'll Discover: How MLC integrates technology from Pre-K through to Year 12 in age-appropriate waysWhy MLC is one of the first independent schools in NSW to hold a full Microsoft Copilot licenceHow the school teaches AI ethics, academic integrity, and responsible use of technologyPractical strategies for parents to set healthy device boundaries at homeThe importance of balancing screen time with human connection and social interaction Key Topics Discussed: Technology integration across all year levels and facultiesAI in education — opportunities, ethics, and academic integrityCyber safety, digital footprint, and online reputationSocial media, the new age restrictions, and their impact on studentsThe school-home partnership in managing device useMitigating teacher burnout through smart use of technology About MLC School: MLC School is a leading independent girls' school in Sydney, committed to empowering young women through academic excellence, character development, and innovative education. Our mission is to inspire girls to dare to be more. Connect With Us: Website: mlcsyd.nsw.edu.auInstagram: @mlcsydneyFacebook: @MLCSchoolSydneyLinkedIn: MLC School Co-host: Anthony Perl Produced by: 'Podcasts Done for You' Hashtags: #DigitalLearning #CyberSafety #MLCSchool #AIinEducation #GirlsEducation #DigitalCitizenship #DareToBeMore

    22 min
  2. Inspiring Journeys of Alumnae Award Winners | dare to be more podcast with Ani Satchcroft

    May 6

    Inspiring Journeys of Alumnae Award Winners | dare to be more podcast with Ani Satchcroft

    In this inspiring episode of "Dare to Be More," host Anthony Perl speaks with Ani Satchcroft, a distinguished MLC alumnae who graduated in 1998 and has gone on to build a remarkable career in global finance. Now Co-Head of Asia Pacific at Macquarie Asset Management, Ani reflects on how her MLC education — particularly her involvement in debating, public speaking, and Tournament of Minds — laid the foundation for everything that followed. Ani's story is a powerful testament to the lasting impact of a girls' school education, and her message for current students is both clear and compelling: if you work hard and apply yourself, nothing should be impossible. Featured Guest: Ani Satchcroft, MLC Alumnae (Class of 1998), Co-Head of Asia Pacific, Macquarie Asset Management In This Episode, You'll Discover: How MLC's emphasis on communication, debating, and public speaking shaped Ani's career in global financeWhy attending a girls' school meant that gender was never a barrier to ambitionHow Ani navigated a male-dominated industry with the confidence instilled at MLCWhat it's like to send her own daughter to MLC — and what she hopes she'll gainAni's definition of "dare to be more": not having a ceiling on your potential Key Topics Discussed: The value of extracurricular activities — debating, public speaking, Tournament of MindsHow a girls' school education builds confidence and removes gender-based limitationsCareer journey across the UK, Dubai, Paris, Boston, and SydneyThe importance of adaptability, open learning, and international experienceSending her daughter to MLC — and the sense of community that bringsWhat dare to be more means: feeling empowered to change the world About MLC School: MLC School is a leading independent girls' school in Sydney, committed to empowering young women through academic excellence, character development, and innovative education. Our mission is to inspire girls to dare to be more. Connect With Us: Website: mlcsyd.nsw.edu.auInstagram: @mlcsydneyFacebook: @MLCSchoolSydneyLinkedIn: MLC School Hashtags: #MLCAlumnae #WomenInFinance #DareToBeMore #GirlsSchoolEducation #WomenLeaders #MLCSchool #EmpoweringGirls

    18 min
  3. Preparing for Pre-Kindergarten | dare to be more podcast with Natalie Hird and Daniel Sandral

    Apr 22

    Preparing for Pre-Kindergarten | dare to be more podcast with Natalie Hird and Daniel Sandral

    In this episode of 'dare to be more', host Anthony Perl speaks with Daniel Sandral, Head of Junior School, and Natalie Hird, Deputy Head of Junior School for Operations, about preparing young girls for the important milestone of starting Pre-Kindergarten at MLC School. Daniel emphasises that the early years of learning are absolutely foundational for schooling right through to Year 12 and beyond, explaining how his role ensures every girl in Pre-K has the very best learning environment possible. He describes how MLC School reaches out to families about two years before girls commence, creating opportunities to get to know parents and their daughters whilst discussing what to expect and how to prepare. Natalie explains the significant advantages of having Pre-Kindergarten on the School campus, particularly for preparing girls for Kindergarten. She describes how girls become familiar with the spaces, routines, teachers, and even the Kindergarten classrooms themselves, making the transition much smoother for both students and parents. The conversation addresses common parent concerns about preparation, with Daniel reassuring families that it's not a competition and every child is different. He shares practical advice including ensuring girls can toilet themselves, carry their own bags, and open lunchboxes, whilst emphasising that the best preparation is simply doing what parents already do well - taking children to playgrounds, letting them play in sandpits and baths, and most importantly, reading books together. Natalie discusses the importance of early learning centre experience, noting that girls who have attended childcare or preschool generally find the transition easier, particularly around separation from parents. She emphasises the value of oral language development through everyday activities like cooking, gardening, and shopping, alongside fine motor skill development and social-emotional growth through play dates. Daniel shares insights about siblings' influence, explaining that whilst girls with older siblings may be more familiar with the School, every child's experience is unique and MLC School's strong orientation program ensures all girls have opportunities to visit and spend time at the School before commencing. The episode addresses parent preparation, with Natalie emphasising the importance of consistent routines, particularly around drop-off and pick-up, and resisting the urge to return for 'one more goodbye'. She acknowledges that the first day can be more challenging for parents than children. Daniel discusses supporting families where English is not the first language, explaining how all children come with rich language foundations and how MLC School's unique language program supports girls in becoming proficient English speakers whilst encouraging families to maintain their cultural languages at home. The conversation concludes with reflections on 'dare to be more' - Natalie describing the joy of watching girls who started in Pre-K now thriving in upper primary, having truly lived the School's philosophy, whilst Daniel shares a touching story about a Pre-K student who challenged him about the lack of a swing in the new playground, demonstrating how even the youngest students embody the spirit of respectfully challenging themselves and others to be more. About MLC School: MLC School is a leading independent girls' school in Sydney, committed to empowering young women through academic excellence, character development, and innovative education. Our mission is to inspire girls to dare to be more. Connect With Us: Website: mlcsyd.nsw.edu.auInstagram: @mlcsydneyFacebook: @MLCSchoolSydneyLinkedIn: MLC School Co-host: Anthony Perl Produced by: 'Podcasts Done for You'

    21 min
  4. Perfectionism in Girls | dare to be more podcast with Anna Michalopoulos

    Apr 9

    Perfectionism in Girls | dare to be more podcast with Anna Michalopoulos

    In this episode of "Dare to Be More," host Anthony Perl speaks with Anna Michalopoulos, Head of Counselling and Student Health Services at MLC School, about the growing issue of perfectionism in girls. Anna draws on 22 years of experience as a psychologist to explain what perfectionism really looks like — from a five-year-old rubbing holes in her page to a teenager who can't start an assignment for fear of getting it wrong. Featured Guest: Anna Michalopoulos, Head of Counselling and Student Health Services at MLC School In This Episode, You'll Discover: How perfectionism shows up differently at different ages — from early primary through to Year 12The difference between healthy striving for excellence and debilitating perfectionismWhy perfectionism can be both a personality trait and a symptom of an underlying mental health conditionPractical strategies schools and parents can use together to support girlsWhy daring to make mistakes is at the heart of real learning and growth Key Topics Discussed: Signs and symptoms of perfectionism in girlsThe link between perfectionism, anxiety, and fear of failureHow MLC School's counselling team works collaboratively with students, parents, and teachersThe importance of reducing stigma around seeking mental health supportBalancing academic expectations with emotional wellbeing About MLC School: MLC School is a leading independent girls' school in Sydney, committed to empowering young women through academic excellence, character development, and innovative education. Our mission is to inspire girls to dare to be more. Connect With Us: Website: mlcsyd.nsw.edu.auInstagram: @mlcsydneyFacebook: @MLCSchoolSydneyLinkedIn: MLC School Co-host: Anthony Perl Produced by: 'Podcasts Done for You'Hashtags: #Perfectionism #GirlsWellbeing #MLCSchool #StudentMentalHealth #ParentingGirls #GrowthMindset #DareToBeMore

    17 min
  5. Building Character Through Debating | dare to be more podcast with Amelia Tchan

    Mar 26

    Building Character Through Debating | dare to be more podcast with Amelia Tchan

    In this episode of "Dare to Be More," we explore the transformative power of debating with Amelia Tchan, the 2026 Debating Captain at MLC School. Amelia shares how debating has shaped her ability to think critically, see multiple perspectives, and lead with confidence. From accidentally joining the team in year 7 to becoming captain, Amelia's journey demonstrates how co-curricular activities build essential life skills. Featured Guest: Amelia Tchan, 2026 Debating Captain at MLC School In This Episode, You'll Discover: How debating teaches you to see issues from multiple perspectivesThe importance of teamwork and collaboration in building strong argumentsWhy "show don't tell" is the most effective leadership approachHow to balance academic excellence with co-curricular passionsThe confidence that comes from an all-girls education environment Key Topics Discussed: The journey from accidental debater to debating captainBuilding character through challenging experiencesLearning to argue positions you don't initially agree withThe difference between co-ed and all-girls debating stylesLeadership as representation and making activities accessibleBalancing multiple passions: law, physics, and even astronaut dreams About MLC School: MLC School is a leading independent girls' school in Sydney, committed to empowering young women through academic excellence, character development, and innovative education. Our mission is to inspire girls to dare to be more. Connect With Us: Website: mlcsyd.nsw.edu.auInstagram: @mlcsydneyFacebook: @MLCSchoolSydneyLinkedIn: MLC School Co-host: Anthony Perl Produced by: 'Podcasts Done for You' Hashtags: #Debating #CriticalThinking #PublicSpeaking #MLCSchool #GirlsEducation #CharacterBuilding #StudentLeadership

    19 min
  6. Developing Leadership with the 2026 School Captain | dare to be more podcast with Anisha Sivagurunathan, 2026 School Captain

    Mar 12

    Developing Leadership with the 2026 School Captain | dare to be more podcast with Anisha Sivagurunathan, 2026 School Captain

    In this episode of "Dare to Be More," we sit down with Anisha Sivagurunathan, the 2026 School Captain at MLC School, to explore her inspiring journey from a shy pre-kindergarten student to a confident leader. Anisha shares the experiences, setbacks, and lessons that shaped her leadership abilities and what it means to represent and serve the MLC community. Featured Guest: Anisha Sivagurunathan, 2026 School Captain at MLC School In This Episode, You'll Discover: How leadership skills are developed through sport, drama, and co-curricular activitiesThe importance of resilience when facing setbacks and disappointmentsWhat it means to be a "culture keeper" and lead by exampleHow listening is one of the most important leadership qualitiesThe power of teamwork and collaboration in effective leadership Key Topics Discussed: The journey from pre-K to school captainOvercoming disappointment and building resilienceLeadership opportunities at MLC School across all year levelsBalancing school captain responsibilities with HSC studiesThe empowering environment of an all-girls schoolMaya Angelou's quote: "People will never forget how you made them feel" About MLC School: MLC School is a leading independent girls' school in Sydney, committed to empowering young women through academic excellence, character development, and innovative education. Our mission is to inspire girls to dare to be more. Connect With Us: Website: mlcsyd.nsw.edu.auInstagram: @mlcsydneyFacebook: @MLCSchoolSydneyLinkedIn: MLC School Co-host: Anthony Perl Produced by: 'Podcasts Done for You' Hashtags: #Leadership #StudentLeadership #GirlsEducation #MLCSchool #SchoolCaptain #Empowerment #YouthLeadership

    20 min
  7. Developing Leadership | dare to be more podcast with Fiona Pow & Andrew Taylor

    Feb 26

    Developing Leadership | dare to be more podcast with Fiona Pow & Andrew Taylor

    In this episode of 'dare to be more', host Anthony Perl speaks with Fiona Pow, Head of Students, and Andrew Taylor, Deputy Head of Senior School Wellbeing, about how MLC School develops confident, capable leaders who are prepared to step up and make a difference. Fiona and Andrew challenge traditional notions of leadership, explaining that it's not just about badges and elected positions - it's about any student who steps outside their comfort zone, does the right thing at a difficult moment, or starts a new initiative. They emphasise that leadership opportunities exist for every student, just as they do for staff throughout the School. The conversation explores the extensive range of leadership opportunities at MLC School, from the Cadet program starting in Year 8 and the Middle Years Leaders program, to the SRC, co-curricular activities, and the powerful Sonycamp experience where Year 11 students serve as companions for children with disabilities. Fiona and Andrew describe how leadership happens in both formal and informal settings - in classrooms, on sports teams, and through the Big Sisters program where Year 11 and 12 students mentor younger girls. They discuss how MLC School teaches leadership through structured programs like the International Coalition of Girls Schools' 'Lean in Leadership' curriculum in Year 8, where students learn about values-driven leadership and aligning behaviours with values. The episode explores the comprehensive training that Year 12 captains receive, including vision planning and goal setting with external organisations. Fiona shares inspiring stories of students who have taken initiative - from creating a midwifery club that sparked passion in others, to graduates who have gone on to leadership roles at university and beyond. She discusses how the School supports students in balancing leadership responsibilities with academic demands through weekly team meetings, staff mentoring, and a strong culture of peer support. Andrew reflects on the unique advantage of an all-girls environment, where students don't need to compete for space at the table because they are the hosts. He explains how seeing strong women in leadership throughout the School gives girls something to aspire to, and how learning to advocate for themselves prepares them for the realities of leadership beyond school. The conversation concludes with both educators reflecting on what 'dare to be more' means in the context of leadership - Fiona describing it as having the drive and initiative to step up and do something more, whilst Andrew emphasises the importance of risk-taking, stepping outside comfort zones, and not being afraid to fail as essential elements of developing resilience and growth. About MLC School: MLC School is a leading independent girls' school in Sydney, committed to empowering young women through academic excellence, character development, and innovative education. Our mission is to inspire girls to dare to be more. Connect With Us: Website: mlcsyd.nsw.edu.auInstagram: @mlcsydneyFacebook: @MLCSchoolSydneyLinkedIn: MLC School Co-host: Anthony Perl Produced by: 'Podcasts Done for You'

    19 min

  8. Feb 12

    Navigating Friendships in the Junior School | dare to be more podcast with Joanne Sharpe and Anna Michalopoulos

    In this episode of 'Dare to Be More', host Anthony Perl speaks with Joanne Sharpe, Deputy Head of Junior School – Wellbeing, and Anna Michalopoulos, Head of Counselling and Student Health, about the crucial role friendships play in girls' development throughout the Junior School years. The episode addresses the positive impact of strong friendships on resilience, academic performance, and self-esteem, whilst also exploring challenges such as possessiveness in middle primary years, the transition when friendship groups change, and supporting girls who prefer just one or two close friends versus those who thrive with larger groups. The conversation explores the role parents and siblings play in friendships, the importance of play dates and connections outside school, and practical tips for parents, including being a 'coach on the side', modelling positive social skills, and role-playing difficult conversations. Anna and Joanne also discuss the transition from Junior School to Senior School, where the cohort doubles in Year 7 and friendship dynamics shift significantly. About MLC School: MLC School is a leading independent girls' school in Sydney, committed to empowering young women through academic excellence, character development, and innovative education. Our mission is to inspire girls to dare to be more. Connect With Us: Website: mlcsyd.nsw.edu.auInstagram: @mlcsydneyFacebook: @MLCSchoolSydneyLinkedIn: MLC School Co-host: Anthony Perl Produced by: 'Podcasts Done for You'

    22 min
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About

Welcome to "dare to be more," the podcast that explores the transformative power of girls' education. In each episode, we tap into the deep expertise and forward-thinking perspectives of the educators, leaders, and professionals who shape the learning environment at MLC School in Burwood. Through thoughtful conversations, we uncover the philosophies, innovations, and practices that empower girls to thrive—academically, creatively, and personally. Whether you're an educator, a parent, a student, a past student, or simply passionate about the future of girls education, join us as we celebrate the ideas and people that inspire our girls to ‘dare to be more’.

Information

  • Creator
    MLC School
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 MLC School
  • Show Website
    dare to be more

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