PiXL Pearls

Discover the unsung heroes known as 'flak catchers' who absorb chaos to protect their teams. Explore how Pixar's early leadership navigated challenges and built a culture around these vital roles. Learn why recognizing and supporting these individuals is crucial for organizational success. Reflect on how to empower those who shield others from conflict and distraction, ensuring a productive and harmonious environment. This insightful discussion encourages a reevaluation of leadership dynamics as we prepare for the new year.

Explore the surprising science of compassion and its transformative effects on well-being in both personal and educational settings. Discover how kindness reduces anxiety, improves recovery, and even boosts mental health. Uncover the powerful role compassion plays in schools, helping students and staff navigate silent struggles. Learn practical strategies for fostering a culture of empathy, proving that kindness is not just an extra but a vital element for success. When challenges arise, compassion might be the most important gift we can provide.

Dive into the emotional nuances of our relationship with time. Explore the contrast between measured moments and those filled with meaning. Discover how literature, like Miss Havisham’s still clocks, illustrates our inner struggles with time. Rachel encourages a thoughtful reflection on the urgency of everyday demands versus the power of presence. It's a profound invitation to pause and prioritize what truly matters in life and leadership.

In Series 8 of the PiXL Pearls Podcast, we dive into eight powerful human stories designed to inspire, motivate and challenge both the people of today and the leaders of tomorrow. This series explores the real and raw moments behind leadership — from empathy and compassion to time management, handling complaints, and navigating polarised thinking. You’ll hear Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) explore a range of stories, from the world successful enterprises like Lush to elite sport, each offering honest reflections and practical insights to support your own leadership journey. Whether you’re just starting out or have been leading for years, this is a series that speaks to the heart of what it means to lead well in today’s world. Real stories. Real people. Timeless lessons. Tune in and take a pearl of wisdom with you!   If you enjoyed PiXL Pearls...   Check out the PiXL website: https://www.pixl.org.uk/ for free downloads   Read Rachel's three books:   Time to Think 1: 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 Box Clever: Quadrants to change the way we live and lead   Listen to the PiXL Leadership Bookclub. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify   The PiXL network spans thousands of schools across key stages 1-5. We collaborate, share best practice, and equip leaders throughout the educational system. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically. PiXL Podcasts are We Are In Beta productions. For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/  

Explore the intriguing concept of the 'hollow Easter bunny' effect, where leaders may appear substantial but lack true depth. Dive into the history of chocolate bunnies, paired with the seven deceptive 'poser tricks' that undermine team trust. Discover how empty promises can hinder progress and the importance of authentic leadership. Rachel encourages a shift from superficial gestures to genuine impact, inspiring listeners to cultivate real influence and integrity in education and beyond.

What does your writing reveal about you? In this thought-provoking episode of PiXL Pearls, Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) explores the fascinating world of forensic linguistics—the science of analyzing language to uncover hidden truths. Discover how the FBI used linguistic clues to catch the infamous Unabomber and why the way we write can expose more than we realise. From emails to everyday communication, learn how your linguistic footprint shapes perceptions, builds trust, and influences leadership. Tune in for eye-opening insights into the power of words and how to use them wisely.   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. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify   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. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically. PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production. For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/

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. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify   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. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically. PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production. For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/

Why do we cherish things we put effort into? The concept known as the IKEA Effect reveals that personal investment boosts our perceived value of creations. This discussion dives into how this affects education and leadership, emphasizing the importance of ownership and engagement. Discover how collaboration can enhance commitment and when our love for our work might cloud our judgment. With practical tips at hand, learn to inspire confidence and teamwork while avoiding the trap of overvaluing just the effort.

Explore the hidden challenges of giftedness through the lens of Disney's Encanto. Discover how the pressures faced by characters like Luisa and Bruno reflect real struggles in schools. Delve into the role of behavioral drivers and the importance of a supportive culture that values well-being. Learn strategies to foster genuine belonging and ensure that every individual is recognized for who they are, not just their accomplishments. This discussion emphasizes the value of authentic communication and the need to appreciate the complexities of each person.

In this festive yet timeless episode of the PiXL Pearls Podcast, Rachel Johnson (PiXL CEO) dives into the leadership lessons hidden within Charles Dickens' classic, A Christmas Carol. Explore the transformative power of purpose and habit formation as we follow Scrooge’s journey from miserly isolation to generosity and connection. Discover practical insights on how changing your perspective and forming small, consistent habits can lead to meaningful change in your personal and professional life. Whether it’s Christmas or not, this episode offers powerful reflections to inspire leaders at every level.   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. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Subscribe on Spotify   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. Subscribe now to download every episode directly to your phone automatically. PiXL Pearls is a We Are In Beta production. For more information visit: https://www.pixl.org.uk/