Episode Description

In this episode of the Women Emerging Podcast, host Julia Middleton delves into the complex and emotional terrain of leading through trauma with two extraordinary school leaders, Elsa and Erin. Their experiences reveal the unique challenges women face when navigating crises in educational settings.

Elsa, a headteacher in Jakarta, recounts the profound trauma her school and colleagues endured—an experience marked not only by distress but by a deep sense of injustice. For Elsa, leadership in such circumstances meant more than guiding a school through a crisis; it required resilience, advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to fairness. Her reflections offer profound insights into the emotional and ethical burdens of leadership in times of turmoil.

Erin, leading a school in a different part of the world, shares her own encounters with trauma in educational leadership. Her story underscores the importance of emotional intelligence, community support, and the delicate balance between strength and vulnerability. Through her experiences, Erin highlights the necessity of fostering safe spaces for both students and educators to heal and move forward.

Together, Elsa and Erin’s narratives illuminate the vital role of leadership in moments of adversity. Their stories serve as a testament to the power of empathy, courage, and the determination to rebuild in the face of profound challenges.

This episode is an essential listen for anyone seeking to understand the intersection of leadership and trauma, offering invaluable lessons for educators, leaders, and those striving to support communities in crisis.

About the Guests