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In this imperfectly perfect episode of the Flourishing Education podcast, I interviewed Dr Siân Jones & Dr Clare Uytman about their work in disability and ableism in education. The conversation focused on their research at Queen Margaret University's Toy Box Diversity Lab, where they work to promote anti-ableism and positive disability representation in education. Dr Jones explained the difference between the medical and social models of disability, emphasising the importance of identity-first language and challenging ableist norms. Dr. Uytman shared her journey from a health psychologist studying amputation adjustment to becoming an ally in disability studies. Together, we explored their research on children's attitudes toward disability and the development of resources to help teachers move from a deficit-based understanding of disability to an inclusive approach. Dr Jones and Dr Uytman highlighted the need for curriculum redesign to properly address disability in education and stressed the importance of celebrating disabled joy rather than just meeting basic needs. The conversation concluded with a discussion of their freely available resources for teachers and recommendations for listeners to critically examine disability representation in their environments.You can read and access the full transcript here

I am deLIGHTed to start in September with this amazing imperfectly perfect conversation with a fellow PhD student and a philosophy candidate from the Netherlands: ⁠Teun van Son⁠ We talked about his research and perspectives on education and environmental philosophy. Teun shared his journey into academia, his interest in ecofeminism and post-humanism, and how these frameworks inform his thinking about dualisms, relationships, and intimacy. He discussed the connections between environmental care, Eros, and the importance of engaging with the world in a way that honors the sacredness of life and allows for natural flow, rather than control. The conversation also touched on the challenges and inequalities within academia, the concept of unpaid labour, and the need to question societal norms around relationships and intimacy. Together we explored themes of trust, discomfort, and the importance of staying with the trouble, as well as the shift from allyship to being a principled accomplice in social justice work. Our dialogue emphasized the value of embracing discomfort, questioning dominant narratives, and fostering genuine relationships. And so much more... If you enjoy a deep philosophical conversation, then this episode is definitely for you!

Today I am deLIGHTed to share another imperfectly perfect conversation with 3 guests - Ratna, May Ling and Heidi who are all part of a group of people who hold Freedom to Learn and currently support and coordinate the network. I invited them to discuss the upcoming Freedom to Learn Forum which is happening between 13-17 August 2026, The Beeches, Sheffield, S33 0DA. This forum is a dynamic and fun space to imagine, create, play, and rest, woven together over four days through our relationships with each other and the land that hosts us. If like me, you have been 'unschooling' and 'deschooling' or if you are just starting and you are in search of a community you can meet in person and online, then I invite you to listen to this beautiful and rich conversation. Education can't happen with me, you, us alone. It's in relationship with our surroundings, with our environment, with people. What if you could join a space, a kind of place where you can be yourself? That's the invitation: What if you could come and really be yourself? What sort of magic could happen?Curious? Take a listen and find out more... Thank you Ratna, May Ling and Heidi for your time, energy and beautiful shares as part of this imperfectly perfect conversation.

Today I am deLIGHTed to share a new episode for the Flourishing Education podcast. In this new imperfectly perfect conversation with Dr Harriet Bergman, we discussed Harriët's journey from being active in climate and student movements in the Netherlands to becoming a philosopher, trainer, and activist based in Amsterdam. Harriët also explained how her work combines academia with training social movements, drawing from her experiences in competitive debating and climate activism. Together we explored further: key philosophical concepts including epistemology, white supremacy, and white ignorance, with Harriët sharing how these ideas help make visible the invisible systems that shape our understanding. The conversation touched on the importance of sitting with discomfort as part of growth, the distinction between individual and systemic responsibility, and the concept of "climate obstruction" in addressing environmental challenges. We also addressed how emotions like anger are perceived differently based on identity, particularly how women's anger is often dismissed or misinterpreted. The conversation concluded with reflections on activism, with Harriët defining it as "the rent you pay for living on this planet" and emphasising that activism can take many forms, from large-scale protests to smaller actions like hosting a podcast. If you are interested in all aspects of activism, this episode is most definitely for you.

Today, I am really excited to be sharing this new imperfectly perfect conversation for the Flourishing Education podcast. It's an extra special conversation as today I have the privilege of holding the space for one of my AWE-some PhD supervisors Dr Lucy Kelly Together we discussed: Lucy's research on educator well-being and perfectionism in education. Lucy shared her 13-year career at the University of Bristol, where she teaches PGCE English courses and leads research on reflective practice as a tool for educator well-being. We also explored: How reflective journaling can help educators manage the fast-paced demands of teaching by providing space for catharsis, celebrating achievements, and gaining perspective on challenging situations. Lucy explained that well-being is dynamic and holistic, encompassing physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects, and emphasised that small daily practices can significantly impact overall well-being. We also addressed how perfectionism presents unique challenges in education, particularly given the endless to-do lists and multiple accountability systems, and Lucy shared her work on flipping the narrative around perfectionism to recognise both challenges and benefits. The conversation concluded with Lucy inviting you, the listener, to experiment with creative journaling practices to better understand your own well-being needs.MORE INFORMATION: Lucy's book "Re-imagining the Diary: Reflective practice as a positive tool for educators" Lucy's blog can be found here More information on the project Reimagining the Diary

Today I am deLIGHTed to share this imperfectly perfect conversation with Dr Jordan Maynard, focusing on her research with Gypsy Roma Traveller communities in education. In this episode: Jordan described her decade-long journey working with these communities, explaining the problematic nature of the GRT umbrella term and the diverse groups it encompasses, including Roma who were forcibly nomadic and Irish Travellers who choose nomadism. She detailed how her research aimed to create "relational stopping places": safe spaces where young people could express their cultural identities and challenge deficit narratives about their communities. Jordan shared specific examples from her 7-month study where young people organised an art exhibition to raise money for homeless charities and hosted their own Christmas party, demonstrating how they grew in confidence when given agency to determine their own activities. The conversation explored themes of : Structural racism, Cultural humility, and The importance of questioning Western educational frameworks that often view these communities through a deficit lens. Jordan emphasised that the research created an ongoing legacy through Learning Partnership West, which continues to replicate the approach across multiple settings. Thank you so much, Jordan for your time and your insights. I enJOYed every minute of it. Unfortunately, her thesis is not available online yet but you can reach out to Jordan via LinkedIn if you would like to get access: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-maynard-3b7b20270

This podcast episode featured a conversation with Zifi Tung, a 26-year-old PhD student at the University of Bath researching teenage play and break/lunchtime activities in secondary schools. In this imperfectly perfect conversation, Zify shared her journey from growing up in international schools in Hong Kong and Beijing to her current research, which began as an exploration of play but evolved to examine how teenagers spend their free time in schools and how school policies impact their choices. The discussion revealed significant findings about gender differences in school spaces, with boys dominating sports areas while girls felt they had "nowhere to go and nothing to do," highlighting ongoing gender stereotypes and spatial barriers in educational environments. Together, we also discussed how the traditional Victorian-era schooling system needs reform to better address modern realities, including the impact of technology and changing societal needs, while emphasising the importance of listening to teenage voices and incorporating more hands-on, cooperative learning approaches to improve well-being and social skills.If you are interested in teenagers and well-being, this episode is for you! You can reach out Zifi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zifi-tung/

Today I am deLIGHTed to share this episode with Dr Maddi Popoola, an Educational Psychologist, Author, podcaster, cofounder of NottAlone In this imperfectly perfect conversation with Maddi, we focus on reimagining education and the concept of belonging in schools. Maddi shared her educational journey from working in 'challenging' UK schools to teaching in Shanghai, where she experienced inquiry-based learning approaches that empowered students. Together we discussed - how current education systems often stifle student motivation and autonomy, particularly through outdated curricula and hyper-individualised approaches that lack community. - Maddi explained self-determination theory's three core constructs of autonomy, competence, and relatedness, and how these are missing in many educational settings. We also explored: - how schools could become more inclusive communities where all students feel seen, heard, and valued, rather than just focusing on behavioural management. Our deep conversation highlighted the tension between systemic changes needed and practical local implementations, with Maddi planning a project to measure and enhance belonging in local schools. Thanks so much, Maddi for your time and insight. I loved every minute of our dialogue and really admire your work. Anybody interested in belonging in school - this conversation is definitely for you! Maddi's website can be found here: https://mp-psychology.co.uk/

In this episode, I speak with Dr Ifeoma Samuel, a Researcher in adolescent mental health, educational leadership, and training, as well as a Professional Tutor. During this imperfectly perfect conversation, we discussed education, mental health, and nurturing young people. Dr Samuel shared her journey from Veterinarian to Educator, emphasising her work with adolescent mental health and her approach to teaching as a form of service. We explored more specifically:🌱 nature as a metaphor for education, 💞 the importance of teachers as "gardeners" rather than just deliverers of content, and 💬 the need for qualitative approaches to understanding student well-being. The discussion highlighted challenges in modern education, including:- hyper-individualism, - a lack of strong role models, - and the importance of kindness and emotional connection in classrooms. We concluded by discussing the concepts of honouring our sacredness and self-worth in education, with Dr Samuel sharing the power of a single kind word to create positive change and encouraging both parents and teachers to see their work as sacred and life-affirming.Thank you, Dr Samuel for this BEAUTY-full dialogue. If you are passionate about education and young people, this episode is for you!

In this episode, I have an imperfectly perfect conversation with Dr Penny Rabiger, a racial literacy educator and researcher, where we talk about her work in antiracism. Penny shared her background, including her experiences teaching in Israel and her PhD research on anti-racist efforts in schools. We also discussed the importance of understanding racism as a permanent system and the need for ongoing anti-racist work. The conversation explored concepts like white fragility, unlearning, and the role of theory in anti-racist practice. Penny emphasised the need for education and dialogue in addressing racism, while acknowledging the embodied and emotional challenges of this work. We also touched on the intersection of anti-Semitism and the culture created by white supremacy. The episode concluded with a discussion of the book "Solidarity with Children" by Madeleine Lane McKinley, which Penny recommended for further exploration.Specific momentsBeginning: Journey to racial literacy advocacy09'24: Career journey and racial awareness16'13: antiracism leadership in education 20'37: antiracism in education and support27'25: Understanding and combating racism32'21: Addressing racism and building alliances37'30: Unlearning racism and white supremacyYou can connect with Penny throughLinkedInHer website: tenpencemore

Today, I am deLIGHTed to share this new imperfectly perfect episode of the Flourishing Education podcast. I interviewed Kathryn Lovewell, a mindful self-compassion teacher and author, about her journey with self-compassion and how it has transformed her life. Kathryn shared her background as a former secondary school educator and her transition to teaching self-compassion, which she describes as the missing link to well-being. Together, we discussed the three key elements of self-compassion: mindfulness, common humanity, and self-kindness, as well as the importance of recognising both the tender and fierce aspects of self-compassion. Kathryn emphasised the need to teach children self-compassion early in life to prevent suffering later in life. The conversation explored how self-compassion can help individuals navigate challenges, including personal struggles and caring for loved ones. We also truly connected on the topic of Euro-patriarchy, Catholic Guilt and their impact on self-perception. The episode concluded with Kathryn encouraging listeners to seek out resources and practitioners to learn self-compassion, and she offered her contact information for further connection, which can be found here: Website LinkedIn: Detail of topics: 04:16 - Mindful self compassion overview 14:23 - Journey to self-appreciation 26:36 - Overcoming catholic guilt through meditation 42:22 - Embracing self-compassion and balance 50:08 - Self compassion and authenticity journey 58:59 - Booster and Crusher and their voices 01:06 - Self compassion and personal growth I hope you enJOY it as much as I did. Thank YOU, Kathryn for your generous sharing and your bright light!

In this new episode, I am delighted to shine a light on and to invite once more Dr Salil Gupta, a retired paediatrician, who shared his journey from practising OBGYN in India to focusing on maternal and infant health in the US, and discussed the importance of including spirituality in mental health education. Together, we explored: the relationship between spirituality and mental health, particularly among young people. Our personal spiritual journeys and perspectives on religion. how ancient spiritual concepts align with modern scientific theories, emphasising the need to integrate spiritual and mental health education into traditional educational systems.You can check out the sites he mentions: https://mightychampions.org/ https://mymhe.org/

In this meeting, I have the utter privilege of holding the space to shine a light on Dr. Zachery Spire and his AWE-some work. ⁠ Dr Zachery Spire⁠ is Research Specialist focusing on Community Engagement at Origon State University (OSU). His background and research are mixed-methods research into student and staff engagement. He is a specialist in the study of social determinants of university access, participation, recruitment and retention. His cross-national studies focus on housing for young people in city contexts. Together, we explored the relational aspects of education and the university's role as a social institution, discussing concepts like liminal spaces and the importance of dialogue in learning environments. We also examined how technology and the Socratic method are transforming educational spaces, while emphasising the value of being present and creating safe spaces for learning and personal growth. This imperfectly perfect conversation concluded with discussions about social inequalities in education and the importance of fostering community and collaboration rather than competition in academic settings. If you are passionate about social change, liminal spaces, flourishing and spaces for curiosity, and being, then this episode is for you! Thank you, Zach! I loved every second of this BEAUTY-full encounter with you. Thanks for all the meandering! You can connect with him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vczachs/ And through his page at Oregon State University (OSU): https://extension.oregonstate.edu/people/zachery-spire You can also watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/iUjBWfwamFQ

Today I am deLIGHTed to share my latest imperfectly perfect, perfectly imperfect conversation with Sophie Smith-Tong who is Founder of Mindfulness for learning. Primary Teacher. EYFS specialist. Mental Health and Wellbeing Lead. We had a FABulous discussion about her journey into education, why she set up Mindfulness for learning after becoming a Mental Health and Wellbeing Lead. We also talk about her new book which is about to come out entitled Teacher Autonomy:Where Has It Gone And Why We Need It Back which you can order here. And so much more! If you are extremely interested in these themes, I invite you to grab a cuppa and to take a listen. I am sure you will enJOY it. I know I did! And don't hesitate to leave us a comment to tell us what resonated with you the most and why.

I am delighted to share this imperfectly perfect, perfectly imperfect conversation with Lara Dzabolova Lara is a second-year PhD student at the University ofBristol. Together, we discussed her research on climate change, politics, and universities, emphasising the value of intentional slowness in academic research. We also explored the unique challenges and opportunities of pursuing a PhD, including the balance between productivity and deep reflection, as well as the concept of being a "pracademic" and the importance of connecting theory with practice. The conversation concluded with discussions about the purpose and value of education, highlighting the role of universities in addressing systemic issues and the importance of self-exploration through academic research and activism. Our key themes were: Climate Activism in Academic ResearchPhD Balance: Practice and ResearchBalancing Theory and Academic PracticeEducation's Purpose Beyond Academia.Education as Lifelong Learning ExperienceExploring Agency and Colonial ConstructsAnd so much more! Thank you so much for this amazing conversation, Lara. I enJOYed every minute of it and I have no doubt that you will too! The link to Gesturing Towards Decolonial Futures mentioned by Lara can be found here