Leading Voices in Education

S2E32: Brandon Laur (The White Hatter) – Navigating the Digital World with Confidence and Care

In this episode of Leading Voices in Education, we welcome Brandon Laur of The White Hatter, one of Canada's leading voices in digital literacy, online safety, and youth online behaviour. As technology becomes an increasingly important part of children's lives, many parents and educators are left wondering how to help young people navigate the digital world safely while maintaining trust, independence, and healthy relationships. Brandon brings years of experience working directly with students, families, and schools to share practical, research-informed insights about online safety, social media, digital citizenship, and the realities young people face online today. Together, we explore common misconceptions about youth and technology, the role of parents and educators in supporting digital wellbeing, online grooming and exploitation, social media use, monitoring versus trust, and how strong relationships remain the most important protective factor for young people. Throughout the conversation, Brandon offers reassuring and actionable advice for families and educators, emphasizing that online safety is not about fear, it is about connection, communication, and helping young people develop the skills they need to thrive in an increasingly connected world. Whether you're a parent, teacher, school leader, or caregiver, this episode provides valuable guidance for supporting children and youth with confidence, care, and compassion in the digital age.

S2E31: Margaret Wheatley – Restoring Sanity Through Community and Courage

In this episode of Leading Voices in Education, we are honored to welcome Margaret Wheatley — internationally respected leadership thinker, educator, and author of Restoring Sanity, Leadership and the New Science, and Turning to One Another. Together, we explore what it means to lead, teach, and remain fully human in a world that often feels increasingly chaotic and disconnected. Margaret speaks candidly about the pressures educators are facing today, the importance of community, and why schools can become “islands of sanity” for both students and adults. This conversation dives into themes of compassion, creativity, generosity, mindfulness, and the human spirit. Margaret challenges us to move beyond fear and self-protection and instead create conditions where people can thrive, connect, and find meaning together. From the power of stillness and reflection to the importance of service and relationships, this episode is a powerful reminder that education is ultimately about humanity. Whether you are a teacher, school leader, parent, or simply someone searching for hope and grounding in uncertain times, this conversation offers wisdom, encouragement, and practical insight for staying centered while supporting others.

S2E30: Dr. Deborah MacNamara - Nourishment, Belonging and Emotional Care

Dr. Deborah MacNamara shares insights on the deep connection between nourishment, relationships, and child development. Discover how understanding attachment and creating relational spaces can transform parenting, education, and food practices.

S2E29: Nicholas Ferroni - Compassion, Connection and the Heart of Teaching

In this discussion, Nicholas Ferroni shares his journey as a passionate educator, emphasizing the importance of building relationships, fostering empathy, and maintaining well-being in teaching. Discover practical strategies for new teachers, the power of positive communication, and the irreplaceable human element in education.

S2E28: Surrey SEL Teachers - Creating Conditions for Students to Flourish

In this conversation, social emotional learning advocates Sarah Dekerf and Jennifer Boudreau share their journeys from classroom teachers to leaders in social emotional learning (SEL) within Surrey Schools. They discuss the importance of building relationships, defining SEL, and the resources available for educators. The conversation also highlights exemplary practices in schools, strategies for teachers on call (TOCs), and the significance of self-care for educators.