A Solution-Focused Approach to Leadership
Subscribe on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Find on Your Podcast Player
Struggling with staff meetings that spiral into problem talk? This episode explores solution-focused communication and how school leaders can transform their school culture by changing the questions they ask. Vicky Essebag and Tara Gretton share practical strategies for shifting from deficit-based conversations to hope-filled dialogue that actually moves your team forward. You'll discover why asking "what's wanted?" instead of "what's wrong?" creates the conditions for real change in your school community.
We dive deep into how solution-focused approaches can help school leaders build stronger relationships with staff, students, and parents. Learn about the power of noticing small wins, creating fresh starts each day, and why those quick corridor conversations matter more than you think. Whether you're dealing with challenging parent meetings, staff frustrations, or student behaviour concerns, this conversation offers a different way forward that focuses on strengths, capabilities, and collective vision rather than endless troubleshooting.
Resources & Links Mentioned:
Solution-Focused Brief Therapy Association (SFBTA) - North American organization offering professional learning opportunities
SF in Organizations (SFIO) - Resources and examples of solution-focused practice in education
Journal of Solution Focused Practices - Latest research and conversations about solution-focused approaches
Vicky Essebag:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/vickyessebag
Website: relationspaces.com
Tara Gretton:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tara-gretton-b3088b18
Website: solutionrevolution.co.uk
Thank you for tuning in, and as always, if you found this episode useful, please share your experience. You can find me online on LinkedIn and Bluesky. My email address is shane@shaneleaning.com.
