In this insightful episode of the 'We Lead Well' podcast, I talked  with Yasmin Arif, a former teacher and school leader turned coach, recounting her journey from burnout to empowering school leaders. The episode takes a deep dive into the challenges faced by school leaders and how effective coaching can be instrumental in overcoming them. It underscores the need for transitioning from mere instructive approaches towards empowering a thinking environment within schools focusing on the  work of author Nancy Klein in promoting effective thinking environments in schools. As the episode progresses, it lays emphasis on the pivotal role of senior leadership in establishing a coaching culture within schools. It highlights how coaching can boost staff retention rates and foster autonomy, all while battling the pervasive issue of learned helplessness in high-stakes academic settings. Importantly, the episode also navigates the potential of coaching in facilitating difficult conversations, conflict management, and personal accountability. The episode concludes with the exploration of effective, cost-friendly coaching solutions, including apprenticeships. It dismisses some of the stigmas about apprenticeships, painting them as practical, academically rigorous approaches to training. This conversation will support leaders seeking to improve their culture, staff wellbeing, and overall satisfaction in their schools. www.weleadwell.co.uk @WeLeadWellPodc1 [email protected] www.headteacherchat.com www.progressivemasculinity.com www.schoolsuk.com