Memories, motivation and life lessons from those at the front of the classroom - stories from across 20 years of Conversations.

Teachers share stories from their life’s work.

Facing up to challenging students, sitting alongside a young person in turmoil, making lifesaving decisions for an entire school, and the simple joy of seeing knowledge take root.

We celebrate the dedication found in schools across the country by featuring some extraordinary principals and teachers.

Content warning:

Sergio Rosato’s story (from 8-25 minutes) deals with bushfire survival.

Brendan James Murray’s story contains a mention of self-harm that is not explicit (55-56 mins).

Listen to the full episodes from featured guests Manisha Gazula, Sergio Rosato, Lynne Hinton, Eddie Woo, Sarah Donnelly and Brendan James Murray.

This episode of Conversations was produced by Stefanie Collett, Pam O'Brien, Jenna Koda, Nicola Harrison and Meggie Morris. Story editing by Michelle Ransom-Hughes. The Executive Producer was Carmel Rooney. Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski presented this interview.

To binge even more great episodes of the Conversations podcast with Richard Fidler and Sarah Kanowski go the ABC listen app (Australia) or wherever you get your podcasts.

There you’ll find hundreds of the best thought-provoking interviews with authors, writers, artists, politicians, psychologists, musicians, and celebrities.

Questions & Ethics: Should Christians bake wedding cakes for weddings about which they disagree?