VIBE: Beyond the Small Talk - podcast cover

VIBE: Beyond the Small Talk

Alice Beveridge and Andrew Howiewww.treeof.com
Welcome to VIBE: Beyond the Small Talk, a podcast for middle leaders and educators hosted by Alice Beveridge and Andrew Howie. On our show, we delve deeper than the surface level small talk and explore the important topics of wellbeing and self-care in the education sector. We understand the challenges and demands that come with being a middle leader or educator, and our goal is to provide you with practical tips, strategies, and resources to help you prioritise your own wellbeing while still excelling in your role.
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Episodes

Loving, Kind, Awesome...What else?

In this episode, Andrew shares his favourite quote with Alice. They then discuss what they believe are the three essential ingredients for living, and working, in a beautiful place! In this episode Alice also references this video about burnout - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SX9_YBMISD8 Follow: Alice on x Andrew on X Tree of Knowledge on X...

May 13, 202426 min

‘Is It Urgent?’ – How to Productively Manage Your Time

Andrew and Alice return with an episode, which focuses on using our time productively. This episode specifically looks into the extra moments that many staff will have at the moment, due to senior pupils being on study leave. How can you best ensure that you make use of this time, whilst looking after yourself. Links Alice on X Andrew on X Tree of Knowledge on X Covey Time Management Matrix...

Apr 23, 202436 min

The Impact of Menstrual Cycles and Menopause on Leadership: In conversation with Dr Natalie Brown

Andrew is away this week, but Alice has found a great substitute! In this episode, Alice sits down with Dr Natalie Brown to look at issues that impact females in the workplace. Dr Brown's research around the menstrual cycle, hormones and the way we react, provides an amazing insight into performance in the workplace. This episode is not to be missed by all involved in education. You can find Dr Natalie Brown on Instagram here...

Feb 20, 202435 min

Leading Change in Teaching and Learning with Colin Meikle, HT of Craigmount High School

In this episode Alice and Andrew sit down with Colin Meikle, the Headteacher of Craigmount High School in Edinburgh. The discussion centres on leading change in schools, with a particular focus on learning and teaching. Colin's experiences as a leader gives a unique insight into managing change, and ensuring it is sustained. Follow Craigmount on Twitter https://twitter.com/CraigmountHS Alice can be found on twitter @Alice_Beveridge Andrew is @theandrewhowie...

Feb 05, 202448 min

The Best Ways to Promote Wellbeing With Staff

In this episode Andrew discusses his upcoming trip to the BETT awards in London. Alice explains the origins of our online platform Treehouse. And together they look at when wellbeing interventions can be of most use with staff in schools. @Alice_beveridge @theandrewhowie @tree_of

Jan 22, 202427 min

The Importance of Rest (and how to get it) - In conversation with Dr Saundra Dalton-Smith

Dr Saundra Dalton-Smith, TEDtalk sensation, took time out of her busy day to sit down and talk to Alice and Andrew about the importance of rest. She also explains why rest is not as simple as taking a nap, in fact, there are 7 different types of rest that we need to ensure we can face the day and thrive, not just survive. Dr Dalton-Smith also shares her insights on educators and how best to ensure they are ready for the term ahead. Dr Dalton-Smith on Twitter Sacred Rest on Amazon Take the Rest Q...

Jan 15, 202431 min

2024 - Liked, Lacked, Learned and Longed For

Welcome back to this first podcast in a while! Alice and Andrew have been on a short break, as life and work has been very busy - but now we are back to discus what is going on in education. @alice_beveridge @theandrewhowie @tree_of

Jan 11, 202429 min

Please Don't Go - We Need YOU!

In this episode, Alice and Andrew reflect on their week, and the increasing number of teachers thinking about leaving the profession. This leads to them coming up with a plan to take some action(inspired by some reading in a sauna!)

Oct 16, 202322 minSeason 2Ep. 8

Toxic Bosses - HELP!

In this episode, Alice speaks about toxic workplaces, with a particular focus on leaders. She shares with us tips on what you can do if your workplace is not one in which you are able to thrive. X @Alice_beveridge @AndrewH_TOK @tree_of

Oct 09, 202330 minSeason 2Ep. 6

Regaining Your Motivation

In this episode, Andrew and Alice discuss what we can do when lose our mojo. Andrew speaks of recent challenges that have impacted his motivation and Alice offers a listening ear, as well as some tips to regain that motivation. X @Tree_of @Alice_Beveridge @AndrewH_TOK

Oct 02, 202338 minSeason 2Ep. 5

How Do We Strike the Right Work Life Balance

As middle leaders, the pressure is often on to model commitment, best practice and lead teams. But there is also the demand to look after those around you, and yourself. Focussing on the idea of Purpose, first discussed in last wee's episode, Andrew and Alice debate the difficulty of getting it right for everyone. For more information about our presenters, and to get updates on their work, follow us on Twitter @Alice_Beveridge @AndrewH_TOK and @Tree_of...

Sep 11, 202334 minSeason 2Ep. 4

Drive - Why a Star Wars Party Brought Motivation

Fresh from her son's 7th birthday party, Alice shares her thoughts on why(for the first time), her husband wanted to take over the planning. Linking this to the work of Dan H Pink, we discuss the things that motivate us. This episode will hopefully allow listeners to think about themselves and the areas in their life where they really can thrive.

Sep 04, 202347 minSeason 2Ep. 3

The Power of Being Different - In Conversation with Stephen Bullock

In this episode, Stephen Bullock, a Senior Education Officer at Education Scotland, shares his thoughts on difference in education, and we we should celebrate it. This discussion will allow you to think about your own superpowers and why being yourself, allows those around you to thrive. Find Stephen on X @Creatwittity

Aug 28, 20231 hr 9 minSeason 2Ep. 2

Advocating Racial Literacy and Teaching as a BME Educator

This episode is a must listen for everyone involved in Scottish Education. Mr Arnault Kasa joins us to speak about his experiences growing up, and how these have impacted his journey into teaching. Reflecting on his practice, he shares tips about what has worked for his classroom, as well as discussing the wider issues within schools. Arnault also discusses the impact that Education Scotland's Building Racial Literacy course has had and the importance of further embedding these practices across ...

Aug 21, 20231 hr 4 minSeason 2Ep. 2

Welcome Back - Summer 2023

Summer is almost over and the new term is about to begin. In this episode Andrew and Alice catch up with each other, and discuss how leaders, at all levels, can set the tone for the year ahead.

Aug 14, 202326 minSeason 2Ep. 1

A Review of the Year - Our PRD

Andrew and Alice sit down to discuss season 1 of VIBE: Beyond the Small Talk! What were the highs, the lows, and the areas for development. For more information about our presenters, and to get updates on their work, follow us on Twitter @Alice_Beveridge @AndrewH_TOK and @Tree_of

Jun 20, 202328 minSeason 1Ep. 13

In Need of Some Rest (But Which Kind?)

As we approach the summer holidays, Andrew and Alice discuss the complications of the last few weeks of term. It is always a busy time in school, and teachers are often undertaking additional tasks in these weeks. So, in this weeks podcast, Alice shares the seven kinds of rest we need, in the hope that when we get some time, we choose the type we need! For more information about our presenters, and to get updates on their work, follow us on Twitter @Alice_Beveridge @AndrewH_TOK and @Tree_of...

Jun 12, 202349 minSeason 1Ep. 12

Creative Coffee, and a story about a fence.

This week, Andrew and Alice reflect upon the monthly Tree of Knowledge Creative Coffee session. They discuss how inspiration can often come from the strangest of places - including Andrew's front garden! For more information about our presenters, and to get updates on their work, follow us on Twitter @Alice_Beveridge @AndrewH_TOK and @Tree_of

Jun 05, 202334 minSeason 1Ep. 11

An Ideal Inservice

Andrew and Alice discuss what they think are the key components to the perfect inservice -to allow staff bonding and collegiate working. Have a listen, and then get planning for August!! For more information about our presenters, and to get updates on their work, follow us on Twitter @Alice_Beveridge @AndrewH_TOK and @Tree_of

May 29, 202343 minSeason 1Ep. 10

Understanding Anxiety and its Impact on Schools - In Conversation with Sahir Permall and Jonathan Wood

In this episode we are joined by Sahir Permall and Jonathan Wood from Place2Be - Sahir is the Director for Scotland and Jonathan is the Area Manager for Scotland East. The episode focuses on the work on Place2be, as well as the interventions and supports that they offer to all educators and establishments across the country. Sahir and Jonathan also share with us their observations about anxiety and mental wellbeing in schools, as well as their hopes for the future. For further information on Pla...

May 22, 202344 minSeason 1Ep. 9

Challenging Hidden Patriarchal Ideals in the Workplace: In Conversation with Maxine Hughes

In this episode, we'll be discussing the challenges faced by women in the workplace and how to challenge hidden patriarchal ideals. Our guest today is Maxine Hughes, a seasoned professional and advocate for women in leadership. Maxine, a Depute Head, shares with us the progress she has made as an individual, as well as discussing the journey towards equality that her school is on. For more information, and to get updates on our work, follow us on Twitter @Alice_Beveridge @AndrewH_TOK and @Tree_o...

May 15, 20231 hr 10 minSeason 1Ep. 8

From Crisis to Strategy

In this episode, Alice and Andrew discuss the journey from crisis mode leadership, to strategic planning. Looking at the crisis in leadership and education that the pandemic presented in recent years, they start to discuss what leadership looks like in these situations. But then the focus moves on to how schools and businesses can start moving back towards a more strategic, long-term, approach. In the discussion we share some of the potential hazards, give tips on the journey, and also discuss h...

May 09, 202352 min

Relationships and Recognition - In Conversation with Gerard Curley

This week, Alice and Andrew interview Gerard Curley, a Primary Head Teacher, with over 19 years experience in teaching and educational leadership and management. In 2020, Gerard's work was recognised when he received the Silver Award at the Pearson National Teaching Awards, for Head Teacher of the Year in a Primary School. In this week's discussion, Gerard will focus on the key role that relationships and recognition play when building strong staff teams, and school communities. Gerard also expl...

May 01, 20231 hrSeason 1Ep. 7

How to be Imperfect - In Conversation with Steve Munby

This week, Alice and Andrew interview Steve Munby, a world-leading authority on leadership and the author of Imperfect Leadership, and Imperfect Leadership in Action (with Marie-Claire Bretherton). This enlightening discussion delves into Steve's inspiration for writing about Imperfect Leadership, as well as discussing what this looks like in practice. He also shares examples of how to embrace imperfection to allow you to support and empower your team. A great listen for all involved in educatio...

Apr 24, 202354 minSeason 1Ep. 6

VIBE - Back Next Week

After a short break, Vibe: Beyond the Small Talk will return next week! AND we cannot wait for you to hear the next episode as we have managed to secure an AMAZING guest! See you on the 24th.

Apr 17, 202356 sec

Difficult Conversations

Nobody enjoys Difficult Conversations in the workplace - or do they? Alice shares a range of tips and advice on how leaders can go about managing these conversations in a way that allows relationships to be maintained, and maybe even strengthened, through direct discussions and honesty. If Difficult Conversations are a part of your role, then this is a key episode for you. For more information, and to get updates on our work, follow us on Twitter @Alice_Beveridge and @AndrewH_TOK...

Mar 27, 202350 minSeason 1Ep. 5

Imposter or Imperfect: Part 2

In the second part of this discussion, Alice and Andrew discuss the work of Steve Munby and his view of Imperfect Leadership. Relating this to leadership, they question whether the idea of being imperfect, may help us cope with the imposter syndrome we often feel. Reference Imperfect Leadership by Steve Munby For more information, and to get updates on our work, follow us on Twitter @Alice_Beveridge and @AndrewH_TOK

Mar 20, 202338 minSeason 1Ep. 4

Imposter or Imperfect: Part 1

In the first of this two part episode, Alice and Andrew look at Imposter Syndrome and the impact it can have on leaders. Looking at the work of Dr Valerie Young, Alice shares 5 different kinds of imposter syndrome, how to identify them in yourself and what steps you can take to overcome it. References Upstream by Dan Heath Dr Valerie Sound TEDTalk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h7v-GG3SEWQ Alice's Imposter Syndrome Blog: https://drive.google.com/file/d/13VpzJr8aL2b_KCWwAF0mCiY2lrmIYBdK/view...

Mar 13, 202349 minSeason 1Ep. 3

What's Your Style?

In episode 2 of VIBE: Beyond the Small Talk, Alice and Andrew begin by reflecting upon the VIA Signature Strength assessment, and Alice's top 5 strengths. This leads into a discussion of leadership styles, focusing on the work of Ken Blanchard and John MacBeath. Finally, they discuss how you can identify the style that feels right for you using Alice's top tips. Find us on Twitter at @alice_beveridge , @AndrewH_TOK and @Tree_of References: VIA Signature Strength Test: https://www.viacharacter.or...

Mar 06, 202349 minSeason 1Ep. 2

Positive Leaders

In this episode, Alice and Andrew discuss Positive Psychology and the impact it can have in educational establishments. Focusing on leaders at all levels, Alice shares some top tips about how you can add positivity to your practice immediately. If you wish to take the Character Strength test referenced in this episode, you can do so here: https://www.viacharacter.org/account/register

Feb 10, 202347 minSeason 1Ep. 1
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