The Positive Education Podcast With Ash Manuel

In this episode with Robert we dive into:  his 46 years as a principal and 51 years in education, exploring the biggest lessons he’s learned about leadership, wellbeing, and the future of schools. He also shares what he’s most proud of and the legacy he hopes to leave. Key topics include: Early Influences  – How Robert’s childhood shaped his path into education. Leadership Lessons  – Insights from...

In this episode with Lisa we dive into: the story behind Rainbow Hollow and its mission to support neurodiverse young people. Lisa shares insights on fostering inclusivity, managing trauma, and practical ways educators can create safe, supportive spaces for all students. Key topics include: The Story Behind Rainbow Hollow – Lisa’s journey and what inspired her to create an inclusive space for all....

In this episode with Alycia we dive into:  her journey as an educator and her passion for creating health and well-being resources for teachers and students. Alycia shares practical strategies for fostering gratitude, resilience, and kindness in schools, along with insights into work-life balance, self-care, and her ‘Relax and Restore’ workshop for stress management. Key topics include: Inspiratio...

In this episode with Christine we dive into: the significant impact professional sports organisations can have on schools and student wellbeing. Christine shares insights into the JackJumpers’ initiatives designed to foster resilience, teamwork, and mental health among students. Key topics include: How the JackJumpers connect with schools across Tasmania. Specific initiatives promoting values like...

In this episode with Sameer we dive into how Shiv Nadar School integrates well-being and positive education into its innovative curriculum, creating a lasting impact on students and staff. Sameer shares insights into: Curriculum Innovation and Well-being : The school’s approach to embedding positive education principles and the resulting benefits for the school community. Fostering a Nurturing Env...

In this episode with Rodney we dive into: Inspiration for School Branding and Character Design Rodney shares his journey into school branding and why he’s passionate about creating characters that reflect school values. Examples of School Characters in Action Rodney describes specific characters he’s designed and how they help students understand and connect with their school’s values. Benefits of...

In this episode with Bec we dive into: What led to Bec’s passion for Positive Education. Her own vision for Positive Education in classrooms and across schools. Practical strategies for the classroom.  The challenges of implementing Positive Education and how to overcome the challenges. Bec’s vision for Positive Education in the next 5 – 10 years. PLUS MUCH MORE   More About Bec Bec is a passionat...

In this episode with Michelle we dive into: The inspiration behind starting i.am.me and focusing on ADHD advocacy. Personal stories highlighting the challenges of living with ADHD. Common misconceptions about ADHD and how to address them. Strategies to empower students with ADHD. Characteristics of ADHD. The role of parents in supporting their children with ADHD and collaborating with educators. P...

In this episode with Gavin we dive into: Gavin’s journey to the International School system (Anglo-Chinese School – ASC, Singapore) Things to consider when looking at joining the International School system Challenges and key learnings from transitioning to an international educational environment. Managing cultural diversity and promoting inclusivity (ASC has representation from 30 Nationalities)...

In this episode with David we dive into: How David thinks about positive education across the whole school How to approach wellbeing coming into a new school Importance of regular audits Difference between Positive Education and Wellbeing Flipping from how to why Challenges of wellbeing across a whole school and how to overcome those challenges The benefits David has witnessed of having a dedicate...

I n this episode with Chris we dive into: Successful start – what is it, how it works and the benefits  Seaview Downs Primary School’s whole school wellbeing approach Whole school wellbeing is a marathon, not a sprint How the school goes about training teachers and the importance of teacher training The importance of thoughtful and common language The schools Interoception / wellbeing room and its...

I n this episode with Casey we dive into: The role professional sports as an industry can play in the mental health space, i.e. school programs, out in the community, etc Using a huge brand to do good The influence of role models The Crows Foundation Vision: Strong community connection building a better future for children and youth in South Australia – what this looks like PLUS MUCH MORE More Cas...

In this is episode with Mona we dive into: How Mona and her team implement wellbeing into the curriculum through 40 assets The World’s Biggest Gratitude lesson and its lasting impact The power of showing gratitude Tips for teachers on how to include gratitude into the classroom and across the school Al Ansar’s wellbeing theme days Is learning from other schools under utilised? The parent “Happines...

In this episode with Peter we dive into: How Peter looks after his own wellbeing within a hectic lifestyle His decision-making process when faced with a tough decision and how he weighs up different factors and perspectives Preventative Vs Reactive approaches to mental wellbeing Empathetic leadership How he handles and thinks about criticism  How he and his wife Annabel think about parenting PLUS...

In this episode with Aimee we dive into: How Aimee went from being a teacher and a school leader to starting the Well-nest Aimee’s philosophy / approach to wellbeing in schools Self-awareness and taking responsibility for our own wellbeing is #1 3 actionable wellbeing tips for an individual educator  Steps to implementing wellbeing across the whole-school  PLUS MUCH MORE More About Aimee Parkinson...

I n this episode with John we dive into: How John started a school that he wanted to see How to use the Metaverse in project based learning The benefits of learning in the Metaverse How you can get started with using the Metaverse in project based learning Why removing exams can enhance wellbeing PLUS MUCH MORE More About John  Kelly John Kelly is the proud owner and general director of a boutique...

In this episode with Jarrad we dive into: The importance of genuinely caring for your employees Banter Vs Bullying How to be an empathetic leader The importance of creating a culture where young people want to be PLUS MUCH MORE More About Jarrad Tait Jarrad is the visionary founder and co-director of Adelaide Hills Lawns & Gardens (AHLG), a leading landscaping and garden maintenance company re...

In this episode with Kelly we dive into: How to get started with your book idea Self-Publish or Publisher? The benefits of writing a book The role of a book writing coach What is the Expert Author Community and to join? PLUS MUCH MORE More About Kelly Irving Kelly Irving is a best-selling book coach, editor, and creator of  the Expert Author Community  – a global coaching experience that has launc...

In this episode with Dale and Ash we dive into: 6 super simple ways to implement wellbeing in the classroom + in your own life.  PLUS MUCH MORE   More About Dale Sidebottom Dale Sidebottom has been referred to as the energiser bunny of the teaching world. With his love of play, fun fitness, energy and passion for getting people moving, Dale is the created of Jugar Life, Energetic Education, Learni...

In this episode with Mandi we dive into: The power of technology in education. How to combine STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) and wellbeing practice. What is design thinking and how it connects with wellbeing. How best to prepare today’s students for the future. PLUS MUCH MORE More About Mandi Dimitriadis Mandi is an experienced and qualified classroom teacher who recognises the pow...

In this episode with Shane we dive into: The challenges that principals encounter that staff and parents may not realise. Advice for young principals on ways to support staff. Setting up a support network system for teachers and for school leaders. Tips for principal wellbeing and how he handled stress / challenges.  Wellbeing prevention strategies for principals. PLUS MUCH MORE More About Shane B...

In this conversation with Val you’ll be inspired to take action on your BIG idea. This is a heart warming and motivating episode. In this episode with Val we dive into: – What Val’s motivation was to start a school that focused on social and emotional learning and trauma-informed care – The process of actually starting a school – How students came to be at Ryan Banks Academy – How she came to be o...

The purpose of this short episode is to talk about the upcoming 4th Annual World’s Biggest Gratitude Lesson event. In this episode with Ash we dive into: – What is the World’s Biggest Gratitude Event? – The purpose behind the event – What to expect from the event – When the event is happening and how to register – bigclass.growingwithgratitude.com.au – Thursday September 14 More About Ash Manuel A...

In this chat with Sam and Sam you’ll learn about AFL MAX’s Breakthrough camp, Australia’s first Mental Health overnight camp for kids. You’ll also learn about what AFL MAX is and what it offers. This is a brilliant chat with a couple young men, who are driven to make a difference. In this episode with Sam and Sam we dive into: – The impact the camp aims to have on young people. – What is AFL MAX?...

This chat with Kevin is super interesting. Kevin is principal of Everton primary school in rural Victoria, a school with 7 students. Everton is a town of approximately 200 people and is located 272km north east of Melbourne. The closest town being Wangaratta. I wanted to talk to Kevin about what life is like at a tiny rural school. I think you’ll find it fascinating. In this episode with Kevin we...