In this episode, Donna interviews Naomi Morgan, a former psychology teacher turned coach, to discuss her transformative journey from the classroom to coaching. Naomi shares her experiences in education, the burnout she faced, and her decision to leave teaching behind to pursue a career in positive psychology and coaching. She reflects on the pressures within the education system, particularly the impact of aspirational grading on students' mental health, and emphasises the importance of building self-confidence and resilience.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
After 15 years as a psychology teacher, a significant career shift was made to coaching, driven by burnout and a desire for a better work-life balance. This transition involved retraining in positive psychology and coaching psychology.
During a challenging period in a teaching career, initiatives were taken to improve staff morale and connection within the school, highlighting the importance of community and support in high-pressure environments.
A core passion was identified in building students' self-confidence and resilience, particularly for those struggling academically. This focus on mental well-being was a driving force in the teaching career and continues to influence coaching practices.
The journey into coaching involved significant personal development, including overcoming self-doubt and building self-worth. This process was essential for successfully launching a coaching business and helping clients achieve their goals.
The coaching practice has evolved to focus on empowering women, addressing issues of self-confidence, self-worth, and undercharging. The aim is to help women recognise their value and potential, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in the world.
BEST MOMENTS
"I just thought, I don't want to be part of a system that does this to children, because I genuinely don't agree with it."
"I think all coaches can do this, but the more we can support people to see, to hold a mirror up to them so that they can see themselves more clearly and confidently."
"It's about being savvy like that. If there are aspects that are draining you like tech and admin, and you can get support on that."
"At some point your health is more important than the job, and you just push yourself. You're going to figure it out."
"Teaching's a tough job, it really is, and I know we get a bad rep as having all these holidays."
ABOUT THE HOST
Donna is a Registered Nurse who has worked in the NHS for three decades.
She brings you real-life stories from people in front-line public service roles. Some of the stories discuss war, terrorism, suicide, abuse, COVID, death, and vicarious moral injury, which may be triggering for some listeners. Alongside these are stories of joy, hope, empathy, and humanity, highlighting the positive impact individuals have made. Many of her guests have navigated career changes, found work-life balance, or transitioned into new roles, including charity work or entrepreneurship. If you have a story to share that could inspire others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch. Inviting individuals from fire, police and probation services, healthcare, military, teaching, social services, local government, and civil service.
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This podcast features real-life stories from frontline public service workers, covering tough topics such as war, trauma and loss, and may be triggering to some listeners. Guests also share their tales of everyday heroism, inspiring joy, hope, empathy and humanity. If you have a story to share that could encourage others seeking change or additional income, please get in touch.
This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/
UK