The School of Wellbeing with Meg Durham Kel Innis: Clear Conversations & Moving From Avoiding To Approaching | Episode 158
“Conversations are messy, and that's okay." - Kel Innis
In this episode of the School of Wellbeing podcast, Meg Durham sits down with primary school principal Kel Innis for an honest and practical conversation about the moments in school life that many of us try to avoid. Together they explore the reality of important conversations, the emotions that arise and the skills that help us approach these moments with more care and confidence.
You will hear them unpack the timing of conversations, the role of emotional intelligence and the importance of pausing before responding. Kel shares how she prepares herself for important conversations, how she stays steady in the moment and why following up afterwards is essential for building trust. This episode will support you to strengthen your communication, build connection and create a school culture where staff, students and families feel seen, heard and respected.
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Chapter Markers:
- 01:30 The tension of conversations we cannot avoid
- 05:45 Kel’s early leadership experiences and what has changed
- 11:10 Planned and spontaneous conversations
- 16:00 Balancing care and professionalism
- 22:30 Emotional intelligence in challenging moments
- 28:55 The role of transparency in leadership
- 34:40 Moving from avoidance to approaching
- 41:05 Repairing after missteps
- 47:20 Creating a culture of clear and compassionate communication
- 52:10 Final reflections
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Deliberate Actions:
- Identify one conversation you have been avoiding and write down why it matters.
- Prepare yourself by choosing the right time, place and purpose for the conversation.
- Pause before responding so you can stay steady and speak with clarity.
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Episode 158 Shownotes - Click here.
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** The School of Wellbeing is one of Australia's best health and wellbeing podcasts for teachers, educators and school leaders! **