How to Build Influential Middle Leaders | A Conversation with Liz Benson

This episode is supported by the University of Warwick's Centre for Teacher Education. Click here to learn more.

In this episode, we unpack the nuanced role of middle leaders with Liz Benson. Liz, a visionary in the field with over two decades of experience, discusses the evolution of middle leadership, its complexities, and the need to celebrate its unique significance. Tune in to discover actionable strategies for bolstering middle leaders, learn about the five dimensions of Trust from Griffith University's research, and recognise the potency of advocacy and influence within your team.

Episode Overview

- Liz Benson's insights on middle leadership and the launch of her new book.

- Understanding Middle Leadership Contexts — Liz emphasizes the crucial role of middle leaders and the senior leadership's responsibility to nurture them.

- Practical Development Steps for Middle Leaders — On-the-job learning and the benefit of mutual accountability.

- Cultural Transformation Through Conversations — The value of coaching and fostering a solid research foundation.

- Networking and Professional Growth — Liz advocates for middle leaders extending their influence beyond their own schools.

- Middle Leadership Agency — Shane and Liz talk about empowering middle leaders to enhance recruitment and retention of quality educators.

- Trust and Influence — Exploring the specific skills needed by middle leaders and the research backing their importance.

- Amplifying Middle Leaders — Liz discusses her efforts in elevating middle leader voices through multiple platforms.

- A reflection on the importance of middle leadership and the shift in how their roles are perceived and valued.

Resources

- Liz Benson's Book, "Middle Leadership in Schools"

- Griffith University Research on the Five Dimensions of Trust

Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on X (@leaningshane), and LinkedIn. My website is shaneleaning.com.

About the host

Shane Leaning is a passionate organisational development coach with over 14 years of international teaching and leadership experience. His approach to coaching and professional development is all about approachability and attentiveness to the unique strengths and contexts of schools and educators. Shane believes that empowerment fosters growth and success for both educators and students alike.

Thank you for tuning in, and if you found this episode useful, please share. You can find me on LinkedIn and Bluesky.

Shane Leaning, an organisational coach based in Shanghai, supports international schools globally. Passionate about empowering educators, he is currently co-authoring 'Change Starts Here.' Shane has extensive experience in the UK and Asia and is a recognised voice in international education leadership. Learn more at shaneleaning.com.

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