Beat Teacher Burnout!

In this podcast, we welcome Shannon Swales, to explore the impact of burnout on teachers and leaders. Shannon shares her personal journey of experiencing severe burnout in 2021 after years as a registered psychologist in Australia. She discusses the shame and stigma surrounding mental illness and burnout, particularly for those in caring professions like teaching. Shannon emphasizes the emotional...

In this podcast, we dive into the psychology of avoidance and procrastination, exploring how these tendencies can impact our stress levels and productivity. We share personal stories, such as the experience of delaying a seemingly simple task and the relief felt once it was completed. By examining different approaches to tackling tasks—whether it's doing them immediately or saving them for later—w...

In this insightful session, participants explored the common struggles of feeling "not good enough" and how this mindset can impact personal and professional growth. The discussion emphasized that even highly successful individuals grapple with self-doubt and highlighted the importance of changing our internal dialogue. Instead of labeling oneself as an "idiot" or "not good enough," the focus shif...

In this episode, we dive into the challenges of dealing with setbacks and stress, particularly for educators who often face overwhelming workloads and lack of recognition. I share a story about a SENCO (Special Educational Needs Coordinator) who went above and beyond for a student, only to face frustration and exhaustion when her efforts weren't acknowledged by the local authority. This experience...

In this episode, I delve into the often-overlooked topic of parental burnout, highlighting its prevalence and the profound impact it has on individuals. I share personal experiences and startling statistics, such as the finding that 82% of UK parents have encountered signs of burnout.  Through my own journey as a parent and educator, I discuss the immense pressures of managing work, parenting...

In this episode, we dive into the alarming statistics surrounding teacher burnout, stress, and sickness. I share insights on how 75% of school staff feel stressed, which is nearly the same as the average across other professions in the UK. We explore the link between stress and productivity, emphasizing the need for self-care and practical strategies to manage stress and boost productivity. I also...

In this podcast, we delve into the multifaceted issue of burnout and its recurrence. We explore whether it's possible to experience burnout more than once and, if so, how to prevent it in ourselves and those around us. I share my personal story, highlighting the immense stress I'm currently facing due to a demanding workload, recent divorce, moving houses, and taking care of aging parents. Through...

In this podcast, we discuss how to return to school or work after experiencing burnout. Whether you're coming back after two weeks or two months, this session aims to provide strategies, tips, and personal stories to offer you hope and guidance. Instead of viewing burnout as a failure, consider it a learning opportunity. I experienced a six-month burnout period, initially misunderstood as chronic...

In this episode, I delved into the realities of teacher overwhelm and shared some strategies that can be implemented right away. Teacher overwhelm can feel like drowning in a sea of responsibilities, leaving us drained, guilty, and physically unwell. I've experienced burnout twice, with my body reacting to the stress both times. The first time, it was severe back pain that put me on morphine, and...

In this podcast, I delved into the concept of realizing our full potential and living our best versions of ourselves. I shared a personal story about a time when I was juggling work and home life, and made a mistake with my children that made me question whether I was truly living up to my best self. I highlighted the importance of valuing oneself and recognizing the impact we have just by being w...

In this podcast, I shared my personal journey of vulnerability, courage, and the link between them. I reflected on my recent challenges, including undergoing surgery and facing obstacles in moving house, which forced me to rely on others and confront my own vulnerability. I emphasized the importance of reaching out for help, even though it was difficult and uncomfortable, as it built trust and dee...

In this episode, I delve into the relentless pressure experienced by educators to continually strive for more. Drawing from my own journey as a former workaholic teacher, I encourage fellow educators to acknowledge the delicate balance between outer appearances and inner vulnerability. Through the metaphor of a tough exterior and a soft interior, I prompt teachers to embrace their sensitivity whil...

In this episode, I open up about my own journey through tough times, like going through a divorce and dealing with the emotional rollercoaster it brings. I share moments when I felt overwhelmed, stuck in grief, and struggling to balance my personal life with my responsibilities as a teacher.  Through my experiences, I shine a light on the common challenges teachers face when dealing with pers...

In this episode, I'm getting real about the tough stuff teachers deal with. Let's be honest, teaching can be seriously overwhelming. Ever felt like your creativity just vanished overnight? Yeah, I've been there too. But here's the thing, I've learned that it's okay to admit when we're not okay. It took me a while to open up, fearing I'd be seen as weak or burdening others. But when I finally share...

In this episode, I explore the challenges teachers face in managing their workload while maintaining productivity and well-being. I delve into the realities of school life, where teachers often find themselves overwhelmed by marking, data management, administrative tasks, planning, and behavior management.  I discuss how poor boundaries between work and home life can lead to a feeling of bein...

In this episode, I want to dive into the struggles that many teachers, including myself, face on a daily basis. From feeling like we're not good enough to battling burnout and lacking confidence, these challenges are all too familiar to educators like me. I've spent years worrying about whether I'll measure up, constantly feeling the pressure to prove myself in a profession that demands so much. I...

I'm Rowena Hicks, and I've been a teacher and leader for over 30 years. I want to share my personal journey with burnout and the shame that often comes with it. My aim now is to support teachers, leaders, and school staff in overcoming burnout and thriving, and I'm doing that through my podcast. I highlight the passion and dedication that teachers bring to their work, but I also address the common...