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She Leads Because She Can

She Leads Because She Can

By: Sue Aspinall and Caz Jude
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About this listen

We believe that there is a need to provide support for female school leaders, who want to thrive and grow within international school settings.


In this series of fortnightly podcasts, we share our own lived experiences and the hard-hitting realities which have shaped us as successful leaders within the sector.


Each podcast forms a topical conversation which is experienced-based; sharing truths, sound council and suggested solutions.


We aim to be a source of courage, confidence and practical solutions to keep others ' leading because they can'.

© 2025 She Leads Because She Can
Episodes
  • #9 Male allyship in action
    Jun 26 2025

    In this episode of She Leads Because She Can, we explore practical ways that male colleagues can actively contribute to creating more inclusive and equitable workplace environments for women, particularly in educational settings.

    Strategies for Allies

    • Show Up: Being present and engaged in conversations about gender equity
    • Speak Up: Using their voice to amplify women's perspectives and challenge inequitable situations
    • Ensure Voice Amplification: Taking concrete steps to make sure women's contributions are heard and recognized

    Real-World Examples

    We share personal anecdotes demonstrating effective male allyship, highlighting instances where male colleagues:

    • Demonstrated willingness to learn about gender equity issues
    • Stepped outside their comfort zones to support female colleagues
    • Took action even when uncertain about the "perfect" approach
    • Showed commitment to ongoing education and growth

    The Learning Journey

    The episode emphasises that effective allyship requires:

    • Continuous Learning: Ongoing commitment to understanding gender equity challenges
    • Comfort with Discomfort: Willingness to engage with difficult conversations and situations
    • Action Over Perfection: Taking steps to help even when unsure of the ideal approach
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    23 mins
  • #8 When it's time to move on: navigating transitions with grace
    Jun 12 2025

    In this week's episode of She Leads Because She Can, join us for an intimate conversation about one the most challenging yet inevitable aspects of educational leadership: knowing when and how to leave. In this candid episode, we explore the complex decision-making process behind stepping away from a school community you've helped shape and lead.

    What You'll Discover:

    • The pivotal life moments and circumstances that signal it's time for a leadership transition
    • How to recognize when organisational changes within your school indicate a need for fresh leadership
    • The delicate art of timing your departure to maintain professional integrity while serving your community's best interests
    • Strategic approaches to ensuring a seamless succession process, from robust recruitment to comprehensive leadership induction

    We Share Real Insights On:

    • Reading the signs that indicate your leadership chapter is coming to a natural close
    • Preparing your school community, staff, and yourself for the emotional journey of leadership transition
    • The critical importance of celebrating tenure and creating meaningful rituals of appreciation for departing staff
    • How to leave a lasting positive legacy while gracefully passing on the stewardship

    This episode offers both practical wisdom and emotional intelligence for educational leaders contemplating their next chapter, ensuring that when the time comes to move on, you do so with dignity, purpose, and the respect of those you've served.


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    38 mins
  • #7 Authentic Leadership: Staying True to Yourself as a School Leader
    May 29 2025

    In this week's episode of She Leads Because She Can, we dive deep into the cornerstone of effective educational leadership: authentic self-awareness. Join us as we explore why understanding and embracing your true self is not just beneficial—it's essential for sustainable school leadership.


    What You'll Discover

    The Foundation of Authentic Leadership We examine why knowing your core values, unique strengths, and inherent worth creates an unshakeable foundation for navigating the complexities of educational leadership. When you're grounded in self-awareness, you can lead with confidence through constant change and development within your school context.

    Overcoming Barriers to Authenticity Together, we unpack the common obstacles that can pull leaders away from their authentic selves—from external pressures and expectations to inner doubts. We share honest insights about the challenges we've faced and how we've learned to stay true to our principles even in difficult moments.

    Proven Strategies from the Field Drawing from our combined years of leadership experience, we offer practical advice and time-tested strategies that have guided us through various career challenges. These aren't theoretical concepts—they're real-world approaches that have helped us maintain authenticity while driving meaningful change.


    Take Action: Your Leadership North Star

    The episode concludes with two powerful, actionable activities designed specifically for busy school leaders. These focused exercises will help you:

    • Clarify your core values and leadership purpose
    • Identify what truly motivates and energizes you as an educator
    • Create your personal "north star" to guide decision-making and maintain momentum

    Whether you're a new leader finding your footing or a seasoned school leader looking to reconnect with your authentic self, this episode provides the tools and inspiration to lead with greater confidence and impact.

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    49 mins
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