Trailblazing Schools with Trudy Graham

Two in Three Teachers, One Big Gap: AI and Special Education Needs

Trudy Graham — Tue, 03 Nov 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode of Trailblazing Schools, Trudy argues that AI is underused in supporting students with special education needs, even as schools face growing needs and shortages of teacher aides and specialists. Trudy shares real examples from past podcast guests and schools she has worked with, showing how educators can use large language models to create individualised learning materials and support plans while protecting privacy and mitigating errors.

Trudy emphasises that educators retain professional judgment and keep control of final outputs: AI can structure and draft, while skilled adults who know the student guide the work. She argues that AI creates the possibility of making best practices around individualised learning materials actually feasible despite staff shortages. Trudy offers listeners a practical action to take this week to build capability in using AI to cater for a student whose learning needs are not currently addressed.

Resources:

Take the Leading Middle Leaders Scorecard at scorecard.trudigraham.com.au

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

Get your copy of AI in Action: Field Notes from School Leaders. It's free, practical, and designed to prompt your own next step. Download today at trailblazingschools.com/fieldnotes

If this conversation resonated and you're exploring how to strengthen leadership in your school network or system, visit trudygraham.com.au/connect to explore working together.

Credits

The Trailblazing Schools Podcast is hosted by Trudy Graham - https://www.trudygraham.com.au/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Trudy Graham acknowledges the traditional custodians of the land on which she lives and is recording today, the Darumbal people, and pay my respect to elders past and present, for they hold a deep and continuing connection to the land, sea, and sky.

Chapters

00:00 Why AI’s greatest potential may be special education

03:01 Rising student needs meet shortages of support staff

05:14 Matt’s train-based reading activities at Fisher Road

09:31 Personalised fluency materials at Glen Apple

11:33 Using AI to support plans and teacher aides

12:30 What makes individualised resources scalable

14:01 Why support work around the student matters

15:20 Risks, privacy, and keeping educators in control

16:26 A practical first experiment for teachers

17:20 Start small, build capability, and change the ranking

AI in special education, AI in schools, large language models, disability education, personalized learning, teacher aides, Australian education

From Web Developer to School Leader to AI Tool Builder, with Phil Warburton from Lesson Kit

Trudy Graham — Tue, 27 Oct 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode of Trailblazing Schools, educator and former web developer Phil Warburton joins Trudy to discuss how AI can reduce the repetitive planning burden in small schools while preserving hands-on, human-centered teaching. He shares a bit about path through rural school leadership and curriculum-planning early AI experiments led him to build Lesson Kit, an AI-supported planning portal shaped by his own teaching practice. Phil explains its curriculum alignment to both Australian Curriculum and to state-specific syllabuses and policies, current availability, as well as what it can do for teachers. Trudy and Phil discuss his development roadmap for Lesson Kit, including what additions to expect in 2027 and 2028. Phil invites educators to try the portal and share feedback through its community forum. Discover how AI can transform teaching practices and empower educators to create more engaging, efficient classrooms.

Explore Lesson Kit at https://lessonkit.com.au/

Resources:

Take the Leading Middle Leaders Scorecard at scorecard.trudigraham.com.au

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Phil Warburton and AI in Education

02:09 The Core Message: Building a Culture of Navigating the Unknown

04:13 The Potential of AI for Educational Efficiency

07:03 Phil's Career Journey and Recent Projects

13:41 The Development of Lesson Kit: From Concept to Reality

17:55 How Lesson Kit Supports Authentic, Hands-On Learning

22:38 Adapting Lesson Kit for Different Curriculum Systems

24:42 The Impact of AI on Teacher Planning and Confidence

28:29 Upcoming Releases and How to Access Lesson Kit

29:40 Reflections on Innovation and Personal Growth

33:22 Phil's Personal Life and Future Plans

35:26 Book and Film Recommendations and Personal Joys

AI in education, teacher workload, lesson planning, Lesson Kit, educational leadership, small schools, curriculum planning, Australian curriculum

From Compliance to Care: Creating Conditions for Staff Wellbeing, with Daniela Falecki

Trudy Graham — Tue, 20 Oct 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode of Trailblazing Schools, Trudy interviews Daniela Falecki from Teacher Wellbeing. Daniela shares insights on balancing compliance and care in education, the evolution of teacher wellbeing, and practical strategies for school leaders to foster a supportive environment amidst rapid technological change. Trudy and Daniela discuss her journey from teacher stress to wellbeing advocate, why COVID-19 was such a catalyse for wellbeing conversations in schools and workplaces the world over, and the power of wellbeing intelligence. Daniela gives listeners an overview of her CARE framework that helps manage cognitive fatigue, and explains why mastering conversations is one of the most impactful skills leaders can develop. Daniela also shares several resources and suggestions for books and sources of inspiration for teachers and leaders on their own professional wellbeing journey.

Connect with Daniela and find the resources mentioned at her website https://www.teacher-wellbeing.com.au/

Resources:

Take the Leading Middle Leaders Scorecard at scorecard.trudigraham.com.au

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Daniela Falecki and the podcast theme

01:17 Daniela's AI-generated introduction and her background

04:04 Leadership in uncharted territory: balancing compliance and care

05:50 The tension between compliance and human in schools

07:14 The importance of wellbeing and emotional intelligence

08:26 Daniela's journey from teacher stress to wellbeing advocate

12:12 COVID-19 as a catalyst for wellbeing conversations

13:33 Moving from trivial to transformative wellbeing strategies

22:34 Supporting leaders' wellbeing through the care framework

23:29 Managing cognitive fatigue with the care framework

33:54 Small steps for school leaders: mastering conversations

37:41 Creating conditions for wellbeing: leadership responsibilities

40:17 Book recommendations and sources of inspiration

41:36 What brings Daniela joy and her secret to resilience

teacher wellbeing, educational leadership, compliance and care, AI in education, teacher stress, leadership strategies, wellbeing intelligence, school culture, change management, teacher resilience

Why Distributed Leadership Fails When Only One Person Trains

Trudy Graham — Tue, 13 Oct 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode of Trailblazing Schools, Trudy shares her innovative leadership programs designed to empower school principals and middle leaders, especially in remote and rural settings. She explores the importance of distributed leadership and how to implement it, the role of peer coaching in leadership development and the challenges of school leadership in remote and rural areas. Trudy also discusses strategies for empowering middle leaders and the impact of leadership programs that involve the whole leadership team.

Resources:

Take the Leading Middle Leaders Scorecard at scorecard.trudigraham.com.au

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 The importance of distributed leadership and stepping back

02:21 Trudy's background and experience in school leadership

04:48 The origins of the online leaders' learning circle

07:39 Leadership programs for middle to large schools and sector diversity

09:08 The development of the Trailblazing Schools program for 2027

10:20 The format and benefits of online leadership development

11:13 The power of diverse sector perspectives in leadership coaching

12:08 Integrating AI into leadership development and strategic planning

12:51 Encouraging principals to invest in their middle leaders

13:10 Practical next steps for school leaders to enhance leadership skills

school leadership, peer coaching, distributed leadership, online leadership programs, school improvement, middle leaders, remote schools, leadership development, educational leadership, school management

Curriculum Writing and Teacher Agency in the Age of AI, with Nick Rose

Trudy Graham — Tue, 06 Oct 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode of Trailblazing Schools, Trudy speaks with Nick Rose, founder of Curriculum Writers Association of Australia and co-founder of Curriculum Makers. Nick shares insights on the role of AI in education, curriculum development, and the importance of teacher agency in the digital age. Nick and Trudy discuss the power of collaboration in curriculum writing, the impact of technology on educational practices as well as the challenge of authenticity in AI-generated content. Discover how discernment and human judgment will shape the future of schooling and why Nick believes AI will never replace humans.

Find out more about The Curriculum Writers Association of Australia (CWAA) at https://www.cwaa.com.au/

Find out more about Curriculum Makers at https://www.curriculummakers.com/

Resources:

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

02:02 AI's portrayal of Nick Rose

03:50 Core message: Amplifying teacher agency with AI

05:13 The human in the driver's seat metaphor

06:08 Nick's work in curriculum and education

07:16 The founding of Curriculum Writers Association of Australia

08:33 Navigating the open curriculum market in Australia

11:26 The core idea: collaboration in curriculum development

13:50 Impact of AI on curriculum writing and discernment

16:16 Shifts in curriculum writing due to AI and technology

19:10 Understanding 'curriculum aligned' and 'human in the loop'

20:33 The importance of discernment in content creation

22:29 The process of developing ideas with AI

23:17 AI's knowledge of personal details and context

23:49 Resources for educators and career paths in curriculum

25:28 Nick's secret about Melbourne's diversity

26:48 Nick's recommended book: The Escape Artist

28:38 What brings Nick joy and comfort at week's end

AI in education, curriculum development, teacher agency, collaboration, edtech, educational innovation, curriculum design, AI tools, teacher training, future of schooling

Building Strategic Capacity in your School Leadership Team

Trudy Graham — Tue, 15 Sep 2026 14:15:00 GMT

This episode of Trailblazing Schools explores how school leadership teams can shift from reactive operational responses to strategic leadership that drives school improvement. Trudy shares how 360-degree feedback helps assess team capabilities, and the power of reflecting team practice for collaborative problem solving. She explores the systemic pattern of reactive leadership in schools and gives an ‘ambulance driver’ analogy for reactive leadership. This episode offers practical insights and tools for building a proactive, strategic team capable of lasting impact.

Resources:

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: The gap in school leadership

01:30 Leadership teams' operational strength vs. strategic weakness

02:17 The challenge of leading with a team in schools

03:10 The systemic pattern of reactive leadership in schools

07:00 Case study: A principal's journey from operational to strategic leadership

09:16 Concrete shifts: From crisis response to strategic planning

11:24 Key insights: The ambulance driver analogy and team patterns

13:09 Practical exercise: Mapping response vs. strategic work

14:27 Building sustained strategic capacity in leadership teams

15:10 Conclusion: Closing the gap for effective school leadership

school leadership, strategic leadership, team building, education management, school improvement, leadership development

_____

The Unique Challenges of Solo or Small School Principals

Trudy Graham — Tue, 08 Sep 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode of Trailblazing Schools, Trudy explores the challenges faced by solo school leaders, focusing on overcoming overwhelm, guilt, and structural gaps. It offers practical insights and solutions to help small school principals invest in their own development and lighten their load. She also shares real stories of principals overcoming overwhelm and finding support through the Leaders Learning Circle.

Resources:

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: Why support matters for solo leaders

02:29 The role of structural gaps in solo leadership

04:37 Stories of Nita and Tanya: Different hurdles, same solution

09:24 Key insights: When you need support most

10:44 Guilt as a barrier to professional growth

11:12 The structural missing piece in small school leadership

12:01 Reevaluating the true cost of support versus doing nothing

13:02 Myth busting: Time, guilt, and effectiveness

14:20 Practical steps: Assessing your support needs

16:01 A call to action for small school principals

school leadership, solo principals, professional development, overwhelm, guilt, support systems, leadership circles, small school challenges

From AI skeptic to creating personalised learning experiences at speed, with Matt Tonkin

Trudy Graham — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode of Trailblazing Schools, Trudy speaks with Matt Tonkin about how AI is transforming his approach to teaching and leadership in a special school setting. Discover practical ways to leverage AI for personalised learning, time-saving, and supporting students with diverse needs.

Resources:

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Matt and his work in special education

04:11 Using AI to create personalized stories and activities for students

05:54 The impact of AI on student engagement and learning

08:01 Leadership challenges and mental health in schools

10:00 The role of gender and role modeling in education

12:04 Using AI to support staff and streamline tasks

13:55 Adapting leadership style in response to pressures

15:58 The mental health toll of working in special education

18:00 The influence of stress and health on staff and parents

20:00 Matt’s journey from skepticism to AI advocate

21:48 Practical examples of AI in daily school tasks

23:57 Creating SMART goals and support resources with AI

25:58 Engaging students with AI-generated activities

28:02 The quick and personalized resource creation process

30:04 Student engagement and confidence building through AI

31:56 Time savings in report writing and planning

34:10 Supporting ESL teachers and reducing workload

35:56 Getting started with AI in schools and leadership

38:05 Matt’s personal insights and secret spots in his area

38:58 Books, films, and active relaxation strategies

AI in education, special education, leadership, personalized learning, time-saving tools, teaching with AI, mental health in schools, innovative leadership

Common Questions about AI for Educators

Trudy Graham — Tue, 25 Aug 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode of Trailblazing Schools, Trudy Graham explores the nuances of choosing and using AI tools in education, emphasising the importance of context, cost, and critical questioning to maximise benefits and avoid pitfalls. She explores some criteria for choosing AI tools in education, the importance of existing AI familiarity and cost-benefit analysis of paid AI models. Trudy gives some examples of ways to prompt for more balanced and honest answers, and explains why regularly asking the AI to offer counter-arguments and uncover blind spots makes for better decision making.

Resources:

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: Why AI choices matter in education

01:24 Common questions about AI for educators

02:35 The importance of context and access in choosing AI tools

04:18 Why your current AI tool is your best asset

07:31 Is paying for AI worth it? The value of subscriptions

11:23 How to prompt AI for balanced, honest answers

14:36 Customizing AI responses and settings for better outcomes

15:51 Practical next steps: Challenging AI before decision-making

AI in education, AI tools, decision-making, productivity, critical thinking, AI investment, prompt engineering, leadership, technology in teaching

5 Ways to Use AI as a School Leader (beyond writing and editing)

Trudy Graham — Tue, 18 Aug 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode of Trailblazing Schools, Trudy Graham explores how large language models/AI can support educators and leaders in various roles beyond simple editing or writing. Trudy focuses on 5 main roles, including data analysis, research, coaching, training, and consulting. She shares practical ways to leverage AI to enhance productivity and decision-making in schools, including a helpful prompt (see below) that you can get started with this week.

Prompt: “You are an [occupation] with high-level expertise in [a particular task]. What information do you need from me to create [output]?”

Example. “You are a workplace health and safety consultant with high-level expertise in education environments. What information do you need from me to complete a risk assessment?”

Resources:

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to AI roles in education

02:02 The challenge of wearing multiple hats in school leadership

03:15 AI as a productivity and thinking partner

04:13 Starting with AI for author and editor tasks

07:48 Using AI as a data analyst and researcher

10:44 AI as a coach for leadership development

13:11 AI as a trainer for skill development

14:31 AI as a consultant with reverse prompting

16:30 Practical steps to start using AI roles today

AI in education, large language models, data analysis, research, coaching, training, consulting, educational leadership

Getting out of the weeds and into the work that actually matters

Trudy Graham — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode of Trailblazing Schools, Trudy Graham explores how school leaders can shift from operational chaos to strategic focus, emphasising the role of team dynamics and time management over technology like AI. Trudy shares a case study of client Lisa, who was struggling with the operational workload of school leadership. Though AI played a part in the transformation she achieved, it was not the key itself. Trudy explains that leadership transformation is more about structures, processes and team than it is about personality or technology. She leaves listeners with a practical action step to apply to the next team meeting on your calendar.

Resources:

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: Why leadership is more than AI

02:06 The common pattern of operational overload in schools

03:57 Research insights on middle leadership and workload

05:30 Lisa's story: from operational chaos to strategy

06:58 Tools and practices that foster strategic team meetings

08:17 The real role of AI in leadership transformation

09:56 Structural changes over personality in strategic leadership

10:48 Action step: shifting your meetings to strategic focus

11:53 Conclusion: Leadership is about the structures, not just the tools

school leadership, strategic planning, operational workload, team dynamics, AI in education, leadership transformation

The Leadership Coach You Already Have

Trudy Graham — Tue, 04 Aug 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode of Trailblazing Schools, Trudy Graham explores how AI can serve as a powerful leadership coach by analysing your own interactions and patterns, revealing strengths, progress, and hidden gaps in leadership development. Trudy shares the exact prompt she used for over a year as part of a routine for personal development and professional growth. If you’re already regularly using AI, your conversation history is a leadership diary and AI can provide honest feedback and quick pattern analysis without emotional bias. Finally, Trudy leaves the listener with a practical activity as well as a philosophical question to help you reframe your AI use and become more self-aware.

Prompt: “Analysing all my engagements with you over the last seven days. What have been my strengths? Where have I made progress? And what are the gaps I may not be aware of?”

Resources:

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 The leadership feedback dilemma

01:30 AI as a leadership coach

02:28 The power of AI analysis

04:26 AI revealing your paper trail

08:28 Insights from AI analysis

10:48 Using AI for development, not just efficiency

12:01 Practical steps for leadership growth

AI leadership coaching, self-awareness, leadership development, AI tools, personal growth, leadership patterns, professional development, AI analysis, leadership insights, self-reflection

Uncovering Bias in AI

Trudy Graham — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode of Trailblazing Schools, Trudy explores the biases inherent in AI and large language models, drawing parallels with historical biases in publishing and education. She emphasises the importance of understanding these biases to use AI responsibly and ethically.

Trudy discusses the impact of bias on marginalised communities, strategies for recognising and mitigating bias and the importance of diverse training data to reduce bias in AI. Finally, she highlights the role of education in addressing bias and leaves the listener with some practical questions to reflect on.

Resources:

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: Bias in AI and Education

01:56 Historical Bias in Data and Publishing

03:55 Representation Bias and Its Consequences

05:00 Publication Bias and Its Impact on Knowledge

06:07 Naming AI to Foster Critical Thinking

07:07 Bias Beyond Representation: What's Not Seen

08:04 Historical Power and Marginalized Voices

09:02 The Matilda Effect and Gender Bias

10:00 Bias in Publishing and Its Legacy

10:58 Practical Steps to Recognize Bias in AI

12:09 Encouraging Curiosity and Critical Inquiry

12:57 Closing Thoughts: The Role of Education and Inquiry

AI bias, large language models, representation, historical bias, education, ethical AI, diversity in publishing, bias in training data

Leading Across Generations, with Dr. Joe Azzopardi

Trudy Graham — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode of Trailblazing Schools, Trudy Graham interviews Dr. Joe Azzopardi. Joe shares insights on intergenerational relationship dynamics, leadership in diverse environments, and navigating uncharted territory with purpose and curiosity.

Trudy and Joe discuss the role of empathy and understanding in teams, the importance of diversity of thought and perspective, and building resilient and inclusive communities.

Discover how diversity, empathy, and data-informed decisions can transform organisations and communities.

Connect with Dr. Joe Azzopardi via his website https://www.unitethegenerations.org/
or on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjoeazzopardi/

Resources:

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Joe Azzopardi and his expertise

01:07 Joe discusses intergenerational dynamics and relationships

04:09 Joe shares his background in teaching and education

08:55 Core message: Leading into uncharted territory with purpose

11:50 Joe’s personal journey and overcoming challenges

14:39 What drew Joe to intergenerational work

18:30 Creating the world’s first intergenerational assessment tool

23:39 The value of diversity of thought and perspective

24:52 Aha moments in Joe’s intergenerational research

27:52 The importance of multi-generational communities

31:38 Core idea: We are better together with empathy

34:28 Leadership in a diverse, technological world

41:47 Practical steps for school leaders: Data and assessment

44:26 Connecting with Joe: Website and resources

45:04 Joe’s favourite book series for unwinding

47:58 Joy and comfort: Family time and switching off

intergenerational relationships, leadership, diversity, empathy, data-driven, innovation, change, education, community, AI

Risks of relying on AI for Cultural Knowledge

Trudy Graham — Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode, Trudy begins by acknowledging the traditional custodians of the land where she lives and records, and explores the limitations of AI in handling cultural knowledge. Although timely with recent NAIDOC week activities, it’s important all year round that educators and school leaders are aware of the limitations when it comes to AI and cultural education. Trudy emphasises the importance of local knowledge and elder involvement in indigenous cultural education. She shares personal insights and practical steps for educators to responsibly incorporate AI tools as well as how to be aware of their limitations and edges.

Resources:

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Acknowledgement of Land

00:32 Personal Connection to Indigenous Art and Community

01:29 The Significance of Cultural Impact and Mentorship

02:13 The Timing of the Conversation: AI and Cultural Content

03:22 Background on NADOC Week and Its Significance

04:20 Risks of Using AI for Cultural Content

05:45 Assessing Online Cultural Knowledge of the Drumble People

06:43 The Limitations of AI-Trained Data on Indigenous Cultures

07:55 Experiments with AI on Local Cultural Tools

09:32 Fluency vs. Accuracy in AI Responses

10:41 Risks of Local and Hyper-Local Cultural Knowledge

11:29 The Importance of Cultural Authority and Fact-Checking

12:02 Knowing AI’s Strengths and Weaknesses in Cultural Content

12:37 Content Responsibility and Community Trust

13:06 Practical Steps for Educators: Engaging Cultural Authorities

14:23 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

AI in education, cultural knowledge, Indigenous communities, responsible AI, NADOC week, community engagement, educational content, cultural protocols, local knowledge, ethical AI

Using technology to support the human work of inclusive education, with Caroline White

Trudy Graham — Tue, 23 Jun 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode, Caroline White, relieving Principal at Sir Eric Woodward School in NSW, shares her insights on the complexities of school leadership and how AI can be used to support inclusive education. Caroline and Trudy discuss balancing multiple roles as a school principal and how AI can reduce cognitive load and administrative stress. Caroline shares how Sir Eric Woodward School is using technology to support inclusive learning environments, increase accessibility of communication tools for students, and foster collaboration and shared learning amongst educators.

Connect with Caroline via the school website https://sirericwoo-s.schools.nsw.gov.au/

Resources:

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Caroline White and Her Role

03:42 Leading into Uncharted Territory

06:49 The Unique Context of Sir Eric Woodward School

09:39 Complexities of School Leadership

12:38 The Role of AI in Education

16:21 Professional Learning and AI Implementation

19:01 Impact of AI on Teaching and Learning

22:00 Creating a Culture of Shared Learning

24:58 Advice for Principals on AI Integration

27:37 Final Thoughts and Personal Reflections

AI in education, inclusive education, school leadership, professional development, educational technology

My Greatest Fear about AI in Education

Trudy Graham — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode, Trudy explores the impact of AI on workload and productivity, highlighting the paradoxes and challenges that come with technological advancements in education and work. Trudy begins by mentioning the usual fears people share about AI, and outlines her own fears around AI causing an unintentional increase in workload for educators and school leaders.

Trudy explores the research about AI and work intensification, explaining the way it can blur boundaries between work and non-work, and lead to inefficient multitasking and attention switching. This episode is a powerful reminder to reflect on how AI is changing your work habits and workload.

Resources:

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Understanding the Fear of AI in Education

04:30 The Workload Paradox: AI's Double-Edged Sword

08:46 Task Expansion and Blurred Boundaries

12:53 The Human Bottleneck: Follow-Through Challenges

AI, workload, productivity paradox, education, work habits, generative AI, work intensification, boundaries, multitasking

The Question Effect for Less Stress and More Impact in Leadership, with Paul McGregor

Trudy Graham — Tue, 09 Jun 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this insightful interview, Paul McGregor shares the power of asking better questions, leading with curiosity, and thinking long-term about legacy and impact. Trudy and Paul discuss the origin of the word ‘trailblazing’ and its metaphorical meaning, the role of curiosity and silence in effective communication, as well as the impact of leadership experiences on personal growth. They discuss the influence of technology and AI on leadership and work, and the need for discernment around adoption. Paul and Trudy finish discussing practical strategies for leaders to reduce stress, foster deeper understanding, and create meaningful change in their organisations, and one very impactful visioning question: “What would a good ancestor do?’

Connect with Paul via his website https://paulmcgregor.co.nz

Resources:

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Paul McGregor and His Work

06:01 The Importance of Trailblazing and Asking Questions

11:00 Personal Leadership Journey and Lessons Learned

15:45 The Power of Deeper Questions in Leadership

20:46 Shifting from Answers to Questions in Leadership

22:35 The Power of Questions and Visioning for Future Generations

28:03 Transforming Leadership Through Curiosity and Empowerment

31:06 Discernment in Leadership Amidst Technological Advancements

35:33 Taking Action: Small Steps for Big Impact in Leadership

37:19 Finding Joy and Comfort in Leadership Challenges

leadership, questions, curiosity, education, legacy, impact, stress reduction, leadership development, future thinking

The Three Phases of AI Adoption in Schools

Trudy Graham — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode, Trudy explores how AI is transforming education through three distinct phases, from staff productivity to student learning multiplier. She shares the pathway from getting started and experimenting with the tools individually, through leveraging AI as a thinking partner to reduce workload and reclaim wellbeing, and finally to the ways AI can be used in to increase student engagement and impact academic achievement. Trudy shares real-world examples from small schools implementing AI, and explains why it makes sense that small schools are where the innovation is happening first. Trudy finishes the episode with some practical steps for teachers and leaders to leverage AI in their own life and work.

Resources:

Find out more about the Trailblazing Schools Partnership here: https://www.trudygraham.com.au/trailblazing-schools/

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 The Impact of AI on Education

04:56 Phases of AI Integration in Schools

10:07 The Learning Multiplier Effect of AI

14:07 Moving Towards Phase Three

AI in education, school leadership, personalized learning, educational technology, small schools, professional development, learning multiplier, curriculum differentiation

AI Tools for Leadership in Complex School Environments, with Tim Prerau-Lorking, Cromehurst School

Trudy Graham — Tue, 26 May 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode, Tim Prerau-Lorking from Cromehurst School shares insights on leading a School for Specific Purposes (SSP) , the role of AI in education, and building strong community connections. Tim shares the impact AI tools have had on his leadership, his staff’s workload and learnings he’s had about how to navigate complex school environments effectively. Trudy and Tim discuss the importance of clear communication, the power of collaboration between teaching staff and leadership team, and the wellbeing benefits of AI tools giving time back.

Get in touch with Tim here https://cromehurst-s.schools.nsw.gov.au/

Resources:

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tim’s school context

05:48 The Role of AI in Leadership

10:46 Navigating Complex Challenges in Education

20:13 Leveraging Technology for Clarity and Efficiency

22:48 Advice for New Leaders

25:46 Personal Insights and Reflections

Educational Leadership, AI in Schools, Inclusive Education, School Management, Leadership Strategies, Educational Technology

Punctuating the Day for Better Wellbeing, with Dr Jodi Richardson

Trudy Graham — Tue, 19 May 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this insightful interview, Dr. Jodi Richardson shares her journey through anxiety, her work in education, and practical strategies for supporting mental health in schools. Discover how leadership, understanding stress, and embracing technology can transform school environments into safe, thriving spaces.

Get in touch with Dr Jodi at https://drjodirichardson.com/

Resources:

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jodi Richardson

02:35 Journey Through Anxiety and Education

05:36 The Importance of Wellbeing in Schools

08:17 Leadership and Psychological Safety

11:29 Supporting Staff and Students

15:46 Practical Strategies for Managing Anxiety

16:55 The Role of AI in Education

19:41 Finding Hope and Empowerment

22:30 Punctuating the Day for Better Wellbeing

25:20 Embracing Technology in Education

27:25 Personal Reflections and Recommendations

keywords

mental health, education leadership, anxiety, wellbeing, school culture, stress management, AI in education, teacher support, student wellbeing, leadership strategies

The 10-Minute Reflective Pause

Trudy Graham — Tue, 12 May 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode, discover a simple 10-minute activity to help leaders pause, reflect, and recognise their progress at the end of any period. Trudy explains how this practice boosts motivation, enhances self-awareness, and shifts focus from what’s left to do to what has been achieved. By sharing two powerful examples from Principals in the Leaders Learning Circle, she demonstrates the impact of shifting mindset from 'more to do' to 'what has been achieved’, and also explains the research on motivation and measuring progress. Trudy finishes this episode by sharing the practical steps and reflection questions to implement this 10-Minute End-of-Week or End-of-Term Activity.

Resources:

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 The Importance of Reflection in Leadership

10:19 Understanding Progress: The Gap vs. The Gain

12:06 Structured Reflection: A Practical Approach

13:51 Next Steps: Implementing Reflection in Your Routine

leadership, reflection, progress, motivation, self-awareness, time management, leadership tips, school leadership, productivity, mental health

AI for Principal Work-Life Balance, with Yvonne Watt from Glen Aplin

Trudy Graham — Tue, 05 May 2026 14:30:00 GMT

In this engaging interview, Yvonne Watt, principal of Glen Aplin State School in QLD, shares her innovative use of AI to enhance leadership, improve work-life balance, and community engagement in a small rural school. Trudy and Yvonne discuss the challenges of being a teaching principal and the use cases Yvonne and her team have found to use AI to reduce workload and support teaching and learning. Yvonne shares practical AI applications, leadership insights, and how to balance technology with human connection.

Links:

Michael Franti - I know I'm Not Alone (Documentary)

Resources:

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Yvonne Watt and Glen Aplin State School

03:47 Leadership Philosophy and Community Engagement

06:54 The Context of Glen Aplin State School

09:39 Challenges of a Teaching Principal

12:27 Embracing AI in Leadership

15:54 AI's Impact on Work-Life Balance

18:39 Innovative Uses of AI in Education

21:30 Integrating Curriculum with School Musical

24:28 Student-Centred Learning and Engagement

26:43 Feedback and Community Involvement

29:40 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

AI in education, rural school leadership, teaching innovation, community engagement, educational technology, school leadership, AI tools for teachers

AI as a Thinking Partner for School Leaders

Trudy Graham — Tue, 28 Apr 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode of Trailblazing Schools, Trudy Graham explores how AI can serve as a thinking partner for school leaders, reducing cognitive load and freeing up time for leadership. Trudy begins with her story of how she began to explore AI and understand the benefits for teachers and school leaders, and why it’s not a replacement for judgment. She highlights the difference between leadership, and the administration of leadership, noting that using AI for planning, communication, and documentation saves hours and reduces stress but doesn’t replace the human work. Trudy shares real-world examples of AI in action, practical steps for implementation, and some advice to get started.

Resources:

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 The Cognitive Load of Leadership

03:33 AI as a Thinking Partner for School Leaders

06:12 Real-World Applications of AI in Education

09:34 Practical Steps to Integrate AI into Leadership

12:19 Overcoming Challenges and Misconceptions about AI

AI in education, school leadership, cognitive load, strategic planning, AI tools, leadership efficiency, AI case studies, educational technology

Leadership Shouldn't Be Lonely

Trudy Graham — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode of Trailblazing Schools, Trudy explores the loneliness faced by small school principals, the systemic gaps that contribute to it, and practical ways to build supportive professional relationships. Trudy explains that leadership loneliness is common but not inevitable, and offers insights into overcoming isolation and fostering meaningful connections. She shares a personal story about her experience of small school leadership, seeking support and connection across long distances, and finishes with a simple action leaders can take to strengthen professional support networks this week.

Resources:

Find out more about the Leaders Learning Circle here https://www.trudygraham.com.au/leaders-learning-circle/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Leadership Loneliness

03:00 The Unique Challenges of Small School Principals

05:57 Building Support Networks in Isolation

09:34 Takeaways from Trudy’s story of Leading in Isolation

13:11 Next steps finding support in your leadership

small school leadership, principal support, professional relationships, educational leadership, systemic challenges, leadership loneliness, community building, leadership development

Leading with Heart at Warwick Farm Primary School, with Karen Mulder

Trudy Graham — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this interview, Trudy Graham speaks with primary school principal Karen Mulder from Warwick Farm in Sydney. Karen shares her journey of leading a diverse school, fostering collaboration with the neighbouring school, and how AI is transforming her leadership and teaching practices. Discover tips for integrating AI as a creative partner in education, encouraging staff to engage with innovation, and maintaining a student-centered approach amidst the challenges of leadership.

Connect with Karen via the school website - https://warwickfarmps.schools.nsw.edu.au/

Resources:

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context Setting

02:56 AI in Education: Embracing Change

06:01 Understanding Warwick Farm School's Unique Environment

10:11 Challenges of Leadership in Education

13:04 Adapting Leadership Styles to Pressures

16:01 Leveraging AI for Efficiency

20:06 Creative Uses of AI in the Classroom

23:51 Encouraging AI Adoption Among Staff

26:02 Final Thoughts and Advice for Educators

education, AI in schools, school leadership, diversity, innovation, professional development, student success

Overcoming Overwhelm in School Leadership (Part 2)

Trudy Graham — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode, Trudy Graham explores how school leaders can manage overwhelm through three key types of thinking: shared, augmented, and solution-focused thinking. This episode follows up from the previous episode about the architecture of overwhelm and shares what the research in this area tells us about how to manage, including leveraging social capital and AI tools, to enhance decision-making and reduce stress. Trudy finishes with some practical strategies and a few powerful coaching questions to help school leaders begin to overcome overwhelm today.

Resources:

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Overwhelm in Leadership

02:46 The Architecture of Overwhelm

05:50 The Importance of Shared Thinking

12:11 Augmented Thinking and AI in Leadership

19:14 Solution-Focused Thinking for Effective Leadership

27:09 Integrating the Three Keys to Manage Pressure

school leadership, overwhelm management, shared thinking, augmented thinking, AI in education, solution-focused leadership, social capital, decision-making, leadership strategies

The Five Layers of Overwhelm in School Leadership (Part 1)

Trudy Graham — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode, Trudy Graham unpacks the architecture of overwhelm and the complex system dynamics that result in school leaders to feel overwhelmed. Rather than simple time management tips, Trudy explains the five layers of overwhelm, including volume, complexity, stakes, constraints and human limits. She explores why school leadership has become increasingly complex and adaptive, the impact of emotional and cognitive load on decision-making and wellbeing, and shares some practical steps to identify pressure points.

Resources:

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

The Power of Curiosity and Kindness in Leading Complex Schools, with Ruth Rogers from Karonga School

Trudy Graham — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:15:00 GMT

From Art Galleries to AI: Trudy explores school leadership insights with Ruth Rogers, principal of Karonga School in Sydney.

In this episode, Ruth shares her real-world experiences of integrating AI into her leadership practices, balancing emotional complexity, and fostering community connections

Resources:

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Harnessing Joy and Connection in Leadership, with Simi Rayat

Trudy Graham — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this episode, Trudy Graham and Simi Rayat explore how emotional capacity, joy and intentional leadership states are essential for navigating uncharted territory in both education and business. Simi shares practical tools including her Five Qs Formula and the Joy Index, to help leaders build resilience, regulate emotions, and foster thriving cultures. Trudy and Simi discuss how AI can support but not replace human leadership qualities, the irreplaceable need for human connection in a tech-accelerated world.

Links:

Connect with Simi on LinkedIn or Instagram

Resources:

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Simi Rayett and Her Work

07:03 The Role of Joy in Leadership

12:53 The JOI Index: Measuring Leadership State

19:02 Practical Steps for Day-to-Day Leadership

24:52 Navigating Technology and Leadership

31:05 Closing Thoughts and Personal Reflections

Three Accelerators That Unlock Your AI Potential

Trudy Graham — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 15:00:00 GMT

In this conversation, Trudy Graham discusses the common plateau that leaders and educators reach when using AI, emphasising that the issue lies not in technology but in practice. She introduces three accelerators for building AI capability: application in personal and professional contexts, experimentation through play, and collaboration with others. Each accelerator is explored as Trudy highlights the importance of personal use, the benefits of playful experimentation, and the power of sharing insights within a community to enhance learning and fluency with AI.

Resources:

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 The AI Plateau: Understanding the Limitations

01:26 Accelerators of AI Capability: The Trio

04:26 The Power of Experimentation and Play

06:49 Collaboration: Learning Together for Greater Fluency

AI capability, experimentation, collaboration, personal application, learning, leadership, fluency, cognitive flexibility, adult learning theory, social learning theory

Empowering Educators with AI Competencies

Trudy Graham — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In this conversation, Trudy Graham discusses the complexities and fears surrounding the integration of AI in education. She introduces her AI competencies model, which outlines the essential skills educators need to effectively utilise AI tools. The conversation emphasises the importance of understanding AI models, crafting effective prompts, and evaluating AI responses to enhance educational outcomes.

Resources:

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Understanding the Fear of AI

02:09 Introducing the AI Competencies Model

06:22 Crafting Effective Prompts for AI

08:03 Evaluating AI Responses

AI, education, competencies, prompts, evaluation, fear of AI, large language models, educators, technology, professional judgment

Grounded Leadership in a High Tech World, with Katrina Bourke

Trudy Graham — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 14:45:00 GMT

In this episode of the Trailblazing Schools podcast, Trudy Graham and Katrina Bourke discuss the challenges and emotional landscape of school leadership. They explore the concept of 'grounded leadership,' emphasising the importance of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and the ability to navigate uncertainty. Katrina shares personal stories and practical strategies for leaders to stay steady amidst the chaos, highlighting the significance of connection and vulnerability in leadership. The conversation also touches on the impact of technology in education and the need for leaders to slow down and be discerning in their decision-making.

Connect with Katrina at https://katrinabourke.com/

Resources:

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Trailblazing Leadership

04:30 The Essence of Trailblazing

07:06 Emotional Intelligence in Leadership

11:52 Grounded Leadership Framework

15:07 Navigating Technology in Leadership

18:09 Practical Steps for Grounded Leadership

21:50 Finding Joy and Comfort in Leadership

24:50 Closing Thoughts and Resources

leadership, emotional intelligence, grounded leadership, school leaders, technology in education, trailblazing, coaching, self-awareness, vulnerability, practical strategies

Leading with AI: Insights from Ocean Road Primary School with Dean Finlay and Shane Liackman

Trudy Graham — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 14:30:00 GMT

In this episode of the Trailblazing Schools podcast, Trudy Graham speaks with Dean Finlay and Shane Liackman from Ocean Road Primary School about their innovative journey into AI in education. They discuss the context of their school, and how they are building a culture of shared learning and collaboration. The conversation highlights the development of AI policies, practical applications of AI in leadership, and the transformative impact of AI on teaching and learning. Dean and Shane share their insights on overcoming challenges, embracing opportunities, and the positive changes AI has brought to their school community.

Resources:

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ocean Road Primary School's AI Journey

04:25 Core Messages on Leadership and Trailblazing

07:10 Understanding the School Context and AI Implementation

09:39 Building a Culture of Shared Learning

12:25 Developing AI Policies and Guidelines

15:43 Practical Applications of AI in Leadership

18:34 Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Opportunities

21:18 Reflections on Leadership Pre and Post AI

24:34 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Trailblazing Leadership in Education

Trudy Graham — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 14:15:00 GMT

In the inaugural episode of the Trailblazing Schools podcast, Trudy Graham discusses the complexities of educational leadership in today's rapidly changing environment. She emphasises the challenges faced by school leaders, including increased demands for personalised learning, teacher shortages, and the emotional toll on staff and students. The podcast aims to explore the role of AI in supporting educational leaders and teachers, focusing on human connection and practical strategies. Trudy also shares her vision for building a community among school leaders and the importance of courage and clarity in trailblazing leadership.

Resources:

Get your copy of AI in Action: Field Notes from School Leaders. It's free, practical, and designed to prompt your own next step. Download today at trailblazingschools.com/fieldnotes

If this conversation resonated and you're exploring how to strengthen leadership in your school network or system, visit trudygraham.com.au/connect to explore working together.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Leadership Challenges in Education

02:15 The Role of AI in Educational Leadership

05:29 Building Community and Practical Strategies

08:30 Defining Trailblazing Leadership

12:15 AI as a Thinking Partner in Education

13:46 Closing Reflections and Personal Insights

Credits
Trailblazing Schools is hosted by Trudy Graham - https://www.trudygraham.com.au/

This podcast is edited and produced by Ellen Ronalds Keene from PERK Digital - https://perkdigital.com.au/

The theme music is Dusty Road by Indiebox

educational leadership, AI in education, school improvement, community building, trailblazing leadership, mental health in schools, teacher shortage, practical strategies, leadership challenges, Australian education

Welcome to Trailblazing Schools

Trudy Graham — Mon, 09 Feb 2026 04:15:39 GMT

Hit + FOLLOW in your podcast app now so you don't miss when Trailblazing Schools launches.

Leading a school today can feel like navigating uncharted territory. The pace is faster, expectations are stacking, and decisions feel more complex than ever.

Welcome to Trailblazing Schools with Trudy Graham—a podcast for school leaders who are leading in the middle of complexity, not at the edge of it.

This podcast is about what it really looks like to lead well in complex times: when there's no clear map, when expectations keep rising, and when you're trying to hold onto what matters most. You'll hear honest conversations with principals and education leaders who are navigating fast-moving change, making thoughtful decisions, and learning in real time.

We talk about courage as steady decision-making under pressure, confidence as trust in your judgement, and clarity as knowing what matters enough to take the next step.

If you're a school leader who wants to protect what's important in education while still being willing to explore new possibilities, follow Trailblazing Schools in your podcast app. New episodes are coming soon.

CONTACT DETAILS:

This podcast is proudly brought to you by Trudy Graham
https://www.trudygraham.com.au

Follow Trudy Graham on LinkedIn

CREDITS:

Host: Trudy Graham. Get in touch via email trudy@trudygraham.com.au

Producer: Ellen Ronalds Keene hello@perkdigital.com.au

Audio editing and post-production: Ellen Ronalds Keene at https://perkdigital.com.au