In this episode I interview Viv Grant, a former head teacher, an executive coach, and the author of the book Learning to Walk in the Dark. Grant discusses her journey through cancer and the loss of her mother, emphasizing the importance of stillness, vulnerability, and inner work in navigating life’s challenges. She also shares her vision for a more humane educational system that prioritizes the well-being of school leaders.
Key Takeaways:
Embrace the darkness: Difficult times are an inevitable part of life. Instead of avoiding them, learn to walk in the dark and embrace them as opportunities for growth.
Cultivate stillness: In the midst of life’s challenges, find moments of stillness to connect with your inner self and access your inner wisdom.
Embrace vulnerability: True strength lies in embracing vulnerability and allowing yourself to be seen and supported.
Episode Highlights:
02:41 The essence of Grant’s book Learning to Walk in the Dark
09:40 The role of artwork in Grant’s healing
18:09 Grant’s experience as one of the few Black women to turn around a failing primary school
25:37 The biggest challenges facing school leaders today
29:58 Grant’s vision for school leaders
35:50 Racial literacy coaching and what grounded, confident, anti-racist leadership looks like
40:41 The importance of inner work
About the Guest:
Viv Grant is an Executive Coach, author, and public speaker known for her deep insights into leadership, vulnerability, and resilience. She is the Director of Integrity Coaching, London’s leading provider of coaching services for Headteachers and Senior School Leaders.
Integrity Coaching: https://www.integritycoaching.co.uk/
Connect with Megan:
Instagram: @HigherLove_withMegan
Website: www.higher-love.com
Podcast Music:
Good For You by THBD https://soundcloud.com/thbdsultan
Creative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported— CC BY 3.0
Free Download / Stream: http://bit.ly/2PgU6Mu
Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/-K_YSjqKgvQ.
This episode was written and recorded by Megan Cooper and produced by Lucy Lucraft (lucylucraft.co.uk)
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