Leading Voices in Education

Sundeep Chohan and Kristi Blakeway

"Leading Voices in Education" is a Surrey Schools podcast that brings together educators, principals, and vice-principals to explore key topics in leadership and education. Focused on creating compassionate systems, promoting diversity, and driving inclusive practices, this podcast provides valuable insights and discussions for those shaping the future of education. Tune in for thoughtful conversations aimed at fostering leadership that truly supports and uplifts all students and communities.

  1. Jun 2

    S2E32: Brandon Laur (The White Hatter) – Navigating the Digital World with Confidence and Care

    In this episode of Leading Voices in Education, we welcome Brandon Laur of The White Hatter, one of Canada's leading voices in digital literacy, online safety, and youth online behaviour. As technology becomes an increasingly important part of children's lives, many parents and educators are left wondering how to help young people navigate the digital world safely while maintaining trust, independence, and healthy relationships. Brandon brings years of experience working directly with students, families, and schools to share practical, research-informed insights about online safety, social media, digital citizenship, and the realities young people face online today. Together, we explore common misconceptions about youth and technology, the role of parents and educators in supporting digital wellbeing, online grooming and exploitation, social media use, monitoring versus trust, and how strong relationships remain the most important protective factor for young people. Throughout the conversation, Brandon offers reassuring and actionable advice for families and educators, emphasizing that online safety is not about fear, it is about connection, communication, and helping young people develop the skills they need to thrive in an increasingly connected world. Whether you're a parent, teacher, school leader, or caregiver, this episode provides valuable guidance for supporting children and youth with confidence, care, and compassion in the digital age.

    37 min

  2. May 26

    S2E31: Margaret Wheatley – Restoring Sanity Through Community and Courage

    In this episode of Leading Voices in Education, we are honored to welcome Margaret Wheatley — internationally respected leadership thinker, educator, and author of Restoring Sanity, Leadership and the New Science, and Turning to One Another. Together, we explore what it means to lead, teach, and remain fully human in a world that often feels increasingly chaotic and disconnected. Margaret speaks candidly about the pressures educators are facing today, the importance of community, and why schools can become “islands of sanity” for both students and adults. This conversation dives into themes of compassion, creativity, generosity, mindfulness, and the human spirit. Margaret challenges us to move beyond fear and self-protection and instead create conditions where people can thrive, connect, and find meaning together. From the power of stillness and reflection to the importance of service and relationships, this episode is a powerful reminder that education is ultimately about humanity. Whether you are a teacher, school leader, parent, or simply someone searching for hope and grounding in uncertain times, this conversation offers wisdom, encouragement, and practical insight for staying centered while supporting others.

    33 min

  3. May 19

    S2E30: Dr. Deborah MacNamara - Nourishment, Belonging and Emotional Care

    Dr. Deborah MacNamara shares insights on the deep connection between nourishment, relationships, and child development. Discover how understanding attachment and creating relational spaces can transform parenting, education, and food practices.

    45 min

  4. May 12

    S2E29: Nicholas Ferroni - Compassion, Connection and the Heart of Teaching

    In this discussion, Nicholas Ferroni shares his journey as a passionate educator, emphasizing the importance of building relationships, fostering empathy, and maintaining well-being in teaching. Discover practical strategies for new teachers, the power of positive communication, and the irreplaceable human element in education.

    36 min

  5. May 5

    S2E28: Surrey SEL Teachers - Creating Conditions for Students to Flourish

    In this conversation, social emotional learning advocates Sarah Dekerf and Jennifer Boudreau share their journeys from classroom teachers to leaders in social emotional learning (SEL) within Surrey Schools. They discuss the importance of building relationships, defining SEL, and the resources available for educators. The conversation also highlights exemplary practices in schools, strategies for teachers on call (TOCs), and the significance of self-care for educators.

    40 min

  6. Apr 28

    S2E27: Dr. Dan Siegel - From Me to MWe: Rethinking Mind, Brain and Relationships in the Classroom

    In this conversation, Dr. Dan Siegel discusses the intersection of neuroscience, mindfulness, and education. He introduces the Wheel of Awareness, a tool designed to enhance mindfulness and emotional intelligence in both educators and students. The discussion delves into the importance of integration in mental health, the dynamics of the upstairs and downstairs brain, and practical strategies for teachers to connect with their students. Dr. Siegel emphasizes the concept of Mindsight, which encompasses insight into one's own mental processes, empathy for others, and the integration of self with the relational world. He concludes with personal practices that promote well-being, highlighting the significance of connection in fostering a healthy mind.

    51 min

  7. Apr 21

    S2E26: Dr. Sabre Cherkowski - Flourishing in Education

    In this episode of Leading Voices in Education, we sit down with Dr. Sabre Cherkowski to explore what it truly means for educators and school communities to move from simply surviving to genuinely flourishing. Grounded in her research on teacher well-being and positive organizational practices, Sabre invites us to rethink how we approach well-being in schools—not as something extra to add on, but as something already present that we can notice, nurture, and grow. She introduces the idea that flourishing is not about ignoring challenges, but about holding space for both struggle and possibility at the same time. Through practical examples and powerful stories, we explore how small, intentional shifts—like pausing to notice moments of connection, sharing stories of success, or creating space for reflection—can transform school culture. Sabre emphasizes that well-being is deeply relational, shaped by how we show up for one another, and built through everyday interactions that foster belonging, trust, and care. This conversation is a reminder that flourishing isn’t a destination—it’s something we cultivate together, one small step at a time.

    36 min

  8. Apr 14

    S2E25: Dr. Brad Johnson - Leading Through Relational Intelligence

    In this engaging conversation, Dr. Brad Johnson shares his insights on effective leadership in education, emphasizing the importance of relational intelligence, trust-building, and the need for a supportive school culture. He discusses the challenges faced by new leaders, the significance of storytelling in professional development, and the necessity of shifting from a survival mindset to one that fosters thriving educational environments. Dr. Johnson also introduces the concept of EduFables, a narrative-driven approach to professional learning, and highlights the critical role of appreciation and recognition in enhancing staff engagement and combating burnout.

    34 min
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About

"Leading Voices in Education" is a Surrey Schools podcast that brings together educators, principals, and vice-principals to explore key topics in leadership and education. Focused on creating compassionate systems, promoting diversity, and driving inclusive practices, this podcast provides valuable insights and discussions for those shaping the future of education. Tune in for thoughtful conversations aimed at fostering leadership that truly supports and uplifts all students and communities.

Information

  • Creator
    Sundeep Chohan and Kristi Blakeway
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Sundeep Chohan and Kristi Blakeway
  • Show Website
    Leading Voices in Education

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