What do the words rizz, authentic, and hallucinate say about society in 2023? And how can we, as leaders and educators, navigate the tension between appearance and reality these words reveal?

In this Pearls episode, Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) explores how the "word of the year" trend—starting with Merriam-Webster in 2003—gives us a window into our collective mindset. From the roaring 1920s’ bees knees to today’s rizz (short for charisma), these words reflect shifts in culture, priorities, and values.

Explore key lessons for educators and leaders about over-valuing charisma, the importance of knowing what you stand for and the need to check the facts presented to us – let’s use a messy present to lead into a better future. Packed with thought-provoking insights, reflective questions, and practical takeaways, this episode challenges you to consider the words you use, the ones you live by and how they shape the way you lead.

Tune in for a jargon-free take on language, leadership, and staying grounded in the messy reality of progress!

Following lots of requests we are now releasing the transcript for each Pearls episode in series 7 –  download them here

If you enjoyed PiXl Pearls...

Check out the PiXL website: https://www.pixl.org.uk/ for free downloads

Read Rachel's two books: 

Time to Think: The Things that stop us and how to deal with them

Time to Think 2: The Things that stop our teams and what to do about them

Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub.

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The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system.

Series 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 are presented by Rachel Johnson, CEO of PiXL, and Series 1 was presented by Founder-Director Sir John Rowling.

They both draw on literature, life, and experience in leadership to explore different elements of what it is to be a good leader and how we can become even better leaders, both in and out of schools.

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PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production.

For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/