Explore every episode of the podcast The Pit Pony Podcast - Life After Teaching
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 078 - Sarah Grocutt - Classroom to Freelance Email Marketing Strategist | 28 Oct 2025 | 01:09:21 | |
After twelve years teaching in specialist and alternative education, Sarah Grocutt reached breaking point. What began as a career full of creativity, compassion, and purpose turned into exhaustion, fear, and guilt as she tried to balance motherhood with an unforgiving system. In this candid conversation, Sarah opens up about her powerful decision to walk away from the classroom after an unsafe and unsustainable experience in a new provision. She shares what it took to rebuild her identity, rediscover confidence, and create a new life as an email strategist and copywriter. Sharon Cawley and Sarah Dunwood explore motherhood, guilt, flexibility, and leadership in education – and what real support for teachers could look like. This is an episode about courage, clarity, and the moment you finally choose yourself. Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 077 - Lisa Mead - Classroom to Online Tutor | 21 Oct 2025 | 01:11:57 | |
After twenty years in primary education, Lisa Mead found herself completely burnt out. The workload, the pressure, the impossible expectations - it all came to a head one morning when she simply couldn’t face going back into the classroom. In this powerful and relatable episode, Lisa opens up about: Now an online tutor, Lisa has rebuilt her career on her own terms - finding joy, flexibility and freedom in the process. Her story is one so many will recognise, and her honesty will stay with you long after you’ve listened. 💬 “It’s like someone opened the jar - and I realised the whole world was waiting for me.” Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 076 - Paula Smith - Classroom to Transformational Coach and Trainer | 14 Oct 2025 | 01:22:39 | |
After three decades in education, rising to the ranks of headteacher and executive head, Paula Smith found herself at breaking point. In this deeply moving and powerful conversation, Paula opens up about her career, the moment that changed everything on the M25, and how she rebuilt her life from burnout to transformation. Now a Transformational Coach and Trainer, Paula shares how she turned pain into purpose, discovered the importance of choosing herself, and now helps others break free from fear, shame, and self-limiting beliefs. This episode is a story of courage, faith, and rebirth - a reminder that it’s never too late to rewrite your own ending. Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 074 - Clare Gregg - Classroom to Entrepreneur and Advocate | 30 Sep 2025 | 01:04:24 | |
In this powerful episode, we sit down with Clare Gregg, whose journey into teaching was anything but ordinary. Statistically, Clare should never have made it into the classroom. As a child, she was a school refuser, on the child protection register, and at 18 found herself homeless and pregnant. Yet against all odds, she fought her way into education, inspired by the teachers who believed in her. Clare went on to teach Religious Education, working in challenging schools, comprehensives, and even a pupil referral unit. Along the way, she navigated personal health struggles, raising a family, and the crushing realities of leadership that left her unsupported and, ultimately, broken by the system. Today, Clare has rebuilt her life as a mortgage advisor, business owner, and activist. She shares her story with honesty and humour, opening up about complex PTSD, breakdown, resilience, and why she still believes in the power of education even after stepping away. Clare’s story is one of survival, transformation, and the fight to create a new identity beyond teaching. With thanks to our episode sponsor (Click to visit): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 073 - Nick Smart - Breaking the Silence on Settlement Agreements in Education | 23 Sep 2025 | 01:16:08 | |
Nick Smart: Silenced by Support and the Fight for Change Welcome to Season 2 of The Pit Pony Podcast. We begin with an episode that steps beyond individual exit stories and into the heart of a growing campaign. Our guest is Nick Smart, a primary teacher who entered the profession at 42 and is now, at 58, exiting the classroom. But Nick’s story is not just about his own departure - it’s about shining a light on the thousands of teachers who have been forced out under the guise of “support plans.” In this powerful conversation, Nick explains why informal support plans have become a death knell for so many careers, how settlement agreements and non-disclosure clauses keep teachers silent, and why he decided to contact his MP to raise the issue nationally. Together with Sarah Dunwood, Nick has helped produce Silenced by Support, a report containing over 100 anonymous testimonies and data from thousands of educators. It is a campaign that shows the scale of the problem and demands urgent change. This is more than one story. It’s a call to action. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 072 - Pit Pony Revisited: The Summer Series - Amy Meade | 16 Sep 2025 | 01:12:14 | |
In our FINAL Summer Re-Issue episode, we revisit the story of Amy Meade, who spent 14 years in education, moving from secondary English to primary leadership and eventually deputy and acting headship. Amy loved teaching and wasn’t working in a toxic school, but even after a successful Ofsted she realised the treadmill never stopped. Delaying medical treatment, putting family second, and even looking forward to surgery just to rest, Amy reached her epiphany moment: school could not come before her health and her loved ones. She resigned with nothing to go to, pushed through hundreds of applications, and eventually found a new career in learning and development. Amy now thrives as a Learning & Development Manager, using the same training and organisational skills honed in the classroom to make a difference in the corporate world. Her story is about people-pleasing, resilience, and the courage to believe that life outside the classroom can be healthier, more flexible and deeply fulfilling. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 071 - Pit Pony Revisited: The Summer Series - Gareth Isaac | 09 Sep 2025 | 01:05:44 | |
In this deeply reflective reissue, we revisit the story of Gareth Isaac, who entered teaching through the Teach First route in 2014. Within just a few years he was experiencing disassociation, exhaustion and a sense of living outside his own body. Gareth opens up about how perfectionism and people-pleasing pushed him to burnout, the eerie experience of teaching on autopilot, and the moment he confided in a colleague who urged him to see a doctor. Signed off for stress, anxiety and depression, Gareth’s time in the classroom ended far sooner than he ever expected. What followed was a difficult period of recovery, therapy and rebuilding. In this conversation he shares how mindfulness became a lifeline, why therapy was transformative, and how he now teaches mindfulness to others while running men’s mental health groups. His story is one of honesty, vulnerability and learning to live in the present moment. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 070 - Pit Pony Revisited: The Summer Series - Katie Stone | 02 Sep 2025 | 01:07:30 | |
In this powerful reissue from our archive, we revisit the story of Katie Stone, a teacher who resisted the profession for years before finally entering via the TA route and discovering a love for the classroom. From her PGCE at Manchester Met to seven years in teaching, Katie describes how the joy of working with children was eroded by pressure, exhaustion and an informal “support plan” that left her anxious, confused and eventually signed off with work-related stress. Pregnant at the time and coping with grief after losing a child, the relentless scrutiny pushed her into panic attacks and left her unable to continue. Katie opens up about the guilt of stepping away, the impact on her young family, and how she slowly rebuilt her confidence. Today she runs a thriving virtual assistant agency, supporting education businesses with the very organisational and communication skills that once went unrecognised in school. Her story is a reminder that teaching skills are transferable, resilience can be rebuilt, and there is life - and success - beyond the classroom. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Conexus Tuition Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 069 - Pit Pony Revisited: The Summer Series - Paul Lennon | 26 Aug 2025 | 01:27:08 | |
In this powerful Summer Re-Issue, we revisit the story of Paul Lennon, a teacher whose career spanned 28 years and took him across the globe. From Japan, Italy, Malawi, Moscow and Senegal to his final role in Warsaw, Paul built a life around travel, education and family. But after decades of success and fulfilment, his last school brought him face to face with one of the most toxic leadership cultures we have ever heard described on the podcast. Shouted at in meetings, undermined at every turn and caught in a destructive clash of egos, Paul’s confidence and mental health began to unravel. He speaks openly about the panic attack that stopped him at the school gate, the therapy that helped him rebuild, and how he has since found a new chapter of purpose working with the NHS in the UK. Paul’s story is one of resilience, clarity and proof that there is life after teaching — even when the exit is forced by circumstances beyond your control. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 068 - Pit Pony Revisited: The Summer Series - Sarah Cowen | 19 Aug 2025 | 01:11:45 | |
In this powerful reissue from our archive, we revisit the story of Sarah Cowen, a teacher whose journey through education reveals the toll of relentless pressure, systemic failures and the struggle to protect her own wellbeing. Sarah speaks openly about her early passion for teaching, the moments of joy with her students, and the devastating impact of burnout and anxiety. She describes the reality of trying to hold everything together while her mental health unraveled, and the difficult choice to step away from a profession she once loved. Now carving out a life beyond the classroom, Sarah’s story is one of honesty, bravery and resilience. It is a reminder that leaving teaching is not the end of your story, but the beginning of a new one. If you are feeling overwhelmed, disillusioned, or at a crossroads in education, this episode will speak directly to you. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Conexus Tuition Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 067 - Pit Pony Revisited: The Summer Series - Grant Decker | 12 Aug 2025 | 01:11:06 | |
In this powerful reissue from our archive, we revisit the story of Grant Decker, an educator whose career took him from the classroom to unexpected new horizons. Grant speaks candidly about his early years in teaching, the highs of inspiring students, and the increasing pressures that began to chip away at his health and sense of purpose. He shares the moments that forced him to pause, reassess, and ultimately step away from the profession he had once imagined would be his life’s work. From navigating burnout to rediscovering his own identity outside of teaching, Grant’s journey is an honest exploration of resilience, self-awareness, and the courage to start again. If you have ever felt the weight of the job pressing too heavily on your shoulders, or wondered what comes next beyond the classroom, this is one to listen to. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Conexus Tuition Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 066 - Pit Pony Revisited: The Summer Series - Hannah Jones | 05 Aug 2025 | 01:19:56 | |
In this powerful reissue from our archive, we revisit the story of Hannah Jones, a history teacher who walked away from education after enduring one of the most dehumanising experiences we have ever heard. From her early passion for teaching to a brutal relocation that left her physically unwell, mentally exhausted and teaching in a condemned classroom, Hannah’s story is one of survival, clarity and courage. She shares what it was like to raise a disabled child in a system with no empathy, how her mental health deteriorated and the moment she walked out never to return. Now Head of Prison Education for England and Wales, Hannah’s story is a testament to what is possible on the other side of teaching. This is one of our most impactful episodes. If you are in the thick of it, this one is for you. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Mark Rickard - Author: Teach, Survive, Repeat Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 065 - Pit Pony Revisited: The Summer Series - James Terry | 29 Jul 2025 | 01:06:09 | |
As part of our Summer 2025 Rewind Series, we are revisiting one of the most heartfelt and compelling conversations we have ever shared. In this reissue, we are joined by James Terry, a former RE teacher who knew from a young age that teaching was his calling. After six joyful years in the classroom, James took a promotion and relocated to a new school. Within four terms, everything changed. He describes the slow unravelling that followed. A creeping sense of disconnection. Burnout. Anxiety. Physical symptoms that went unacknowledged. Eventually, the painful decision to walk away from the career he had once loved. But this is not a story of failure. It is a story of transformation. From a short-lived plan to become a bus driver, to years of supply teaching, and finally retraining as a civil celebrant, James found a new way to make a lasting impact. Today, he supports hundreds of families through the most important and emotional moments of their lives, bringing presence, compassion and deep humanity to everything he does. This revisited episode is for anyone seeking clarity, courage or simply the reassurance that purpose can be rediscovered in the most unexpected places. Originally aired: November 2024 | Reissued: Summer 2025 With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Mark Rickard - Author: Teach, Survive, Repeat Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 064 - Pit Pony Kat Philippou-Curtis Part 2 - With Special Guest Cathy Tyson | 22 Jul 2025 | 00:58:39 | |
Kat’s Story, Part 2: Swallow - A Film That Could Change Everything In this gripping second half of our conversation with Kat Philippou-Curtis, we’re joined by the legendary Cathy Tyson, who brings Kat’s story to life in the upcoming film Swallow. Together, we explore how a teacher who refused to be gagged transformed personal trauma into a powerful work of art. We talk about non-disclosure agreements, toxic leadership, cultural discrimination, and the quiet scandal of teachers forced out and silenced. Cathy shares her experience stepping into the role, and how the story struck a deep chord with her own values and background. This episode is not just about one film. It’s about the thousands of stories hidden behind closed doors. It’s about truth, courage, and the potential for a Me Too moment in education. If you've ever said, “Someone should make a film about this”… you're going to want to listen. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Mark Rickard - Author: Teach, Survive, Repeat Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 063 - Pit Pony Kat Philippou-Curtis - Classroom To Film Maker Part 1 | 15 Jul 2025 | 00:40:31 | |
In this gripping and harrowing episode, we sit down with Kat Philippou-Curtis, a drama specialist, film writer and filmmaker, as she shares the shocking truth behind her exit from further education. Kat was a passionate and dedicated lecturer, loved by many of her students and deeply committed to unlocking creativity through the arts. But what started as a dream job quickly unravelled into a nightmare of bullying, systemic malpractice, safeguarding failures and false allegations. Kat speaks candidly about being ostracised, manipulated and ultimately suspended - following an act of basic human compassion. She was later accused of misconduct and subjected to a biased investigation that stripped away her reputation, mental health and trust in the system. But that was just the beginning. This is a raw, brave and unfiltered account of what can happen when power is abused and whistleblowers are silenced. It’s also a testament to resilience, truth-telling and the power of storytelling - as Kat turns her lived experience into a powerful independent film called Swallow. Part 2 continues with the extraordinary story behind the making of the film - and a very special guest joins us. Connect with Kat: Trigger warning - This episode includes discussion of bullying, discrimination, safeguarding failures, and mental health struggles. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Mark Rickard - Author: Teach, Survive, Repeat Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 062 - Pit Pony Jay Dehaan - Classroom to Curriculum Innovation Manager - Part 2 | 08 Jul 2025 | 00:53:13 | |
In Part 2 of Jay Dehaan’s story, we hear what happened after he made it into the classroom. Jay shares the emotional toll of leadership, the grief of losing a loved one, and the quiet realisation that the system he fought to be part of no longer fit the life he wanted. From pushing for curriculum change to missing out on time with his own children, Jay found himself questioning everything. We talk about the rigid structures of education, the barriers to meaningful change, and how discovering the Life After Teaching group helped him take the leap into further education. Now working as a Curriculum Innovation Manager for a remote apprenticeship provider, Jay is more present for his family and finally doing work that feels right. This is a powerful reflection on identity, resilience, and the courage to choose a new path. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Mark Rickard - Author: Teach, Survive, Repeat Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 061 - Pit Pony Jay Dehaan - Classroom to Curriculum Innovation Manager - Part 1 | 01 Jul 2025 | 00:54:16 | |
Jay Dehaan didn’t grow up wanting to be a teacher. In fact, he hated school. He left education with no qualifications, spent five years in a wheelchair as a child due to Perthes disease, and was told by Citizens Advice that his family would be better off if he signed on. But somehow, against the odds, Jay found his way into the classroom. In this episode, Jay shares his early life with brutal honesty. We talk about growing up in chaos, being excluded by the very system he would later work in, and the life-changing moment his partner Sarah enrolled him on a college course without asking. This is a story of trauma, tenacity, and the long, winding road into teaching. Jay is real, warm, and unfiltered. We loved this conversation, and we know you will too. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Mark Rickard - Author: Teach, Survive, Repeat Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 060 - Gareth Dale - Classroom to Childrens Author / Private Tutor Part 2 | 24 Jun 2025 | 00:49:48 | |
In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Gareth Dale continues his story - from barely holding it together in the classroom to discovering his voice as a children’s author and private tutor. We talk about what happens after the funeral, the long shadow of trauma, and how Mr Dale - the teacher persona - became both a mask and a means of survival. Gareth shares how he began to write feverishly at night, eventually turning his grief into a series of children’s books that now connect with pupils across the UK. We explore identity loss, the rigid expectations of the education system, and the moment Gareth realised that stepping away wasn’t failure - it was freedom. There are revelations here about purpose, healing, and what it means to truly live after tragedy. ⚠️ Content warning: this episode contains themes of child loss, separation, and emotional trauma. This one stays with you. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 059 - Gareth Dale - Classroom to Childrens Author / Private Tutor Part 1 | 17 Jun 2025 | 00:58:58 | |
In this deeply personal episode, we sit down with Gareth Dale - a teacher from 2005 to 2023 - to explore a story of love, loss, and the emotional toll of showing up in school when life is falling apart behind the scenes. Gareth takes us through his early teaching journey, the formative years in tough inner-city schools, and the moment his life changed forever with the birth - and tragic loss - of his newborn daughter, Clara. He opens up about the trauma, the masking, the shock that followed, and the moment writing a school Christmas play helped him find meaning again. We talk about grief that doesn’t follow rules, the safe spaces school can offer (and sometimes can’t), and the emotional weight teachers carry - especially when life outside the classroom shatters. This is a story about identity, survival, and how creativity became a lifeline. ⚠️ Content warning: this episode discusses baby loss and grief. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 058 - Pit Pony Giselle Wild - Classroom to Safeguarding Young Lives | 10 Jun 2025 | 01:13:45 | |
After 17 years in the classroom, Giselle Wild left teaching at Christmas 2024. In this episode, she reflects on a career built on creativity, care and connection - and the unraveling that began after the traumatic birth of her son. From art rooms to leadership roles, Giselle gave everything to her students. But delayed PTSD, sleepless years, and a system that demanded more than she could give eventually led to a complete breakdown. Now working for the Breck Foundation, Giselle supports young people to stay safe online - bringing her deep empathy and experience into a new role that values her in ways the classroom no longer could. This conversation is about identity, invisible trauma, and what happens when a system you love starts to erode the person you are. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 056 - Pit Pony Emma Harper - Classroom to CEO / Marketing Mentor - Part 1 | 03 Jun 2025 | 00:42:40 | |
Emma Harper Part 1: From Promise to Breaking Point Emma Harper was a dedicated secondary maths teacher from 2011 to 2023. In this episode, she shares the first half of her powerful story, covering three very different schools, early career promise, and a series of personal and professional challenges that pushed her to the edge. We talk about international teaching experiences, burnout, student behaviour, toxic leadership, and the silent, slow build-up of trauma. Emma opens up about multiple breakdowns, the culture shifts that blindsided her, and how teaching ultimately became the background to deep emotional pain, including the loss of her mother during the COVID-19 pandemic. This is a raw and honest conversation about what happens when passion meets pressure, and what it takes to keep going when everything is falling apart. Emmas links : http://www.facebook.com/makeyourmarketingcount https://www.coreplustuition.com/ http://linkedin.com/emma-harper-coreplustuition https://www.facebook.com/CorePlusTuition/ With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 057 - Pit Pony Emma Harper - Classroom to CEO / Marketing Mentor - Part 2 | 03 Jun 2025 | 00:46:16 | |
Emma Harper Part 2: Finding Freedom After the Fall In the second half of Emma Harper’s story, we follow her journey out of the classroom for good. After a final crisis point left her broken and exhausted, Emma made the decision to leave teaching in December 2023. What followed was not just survival, but transformation. Emma shares how tutoring became a vital part of her healing, how she built Core Plus Tuition, and why creating a safe space for both students and tutors has become her mission. We also explore how her business grew, leading to the launch of Make Your Marketing Count, her second venture supporting service-based business owners. This episode also includes a powerful epilogue, where we reflect on adult safeguarding in schools, systemic failure, and the push for meaningful change at a national level. Honest, heartfelt, and fuelled by purpose, Emma’s story is a must-listen for anyone who has ever questioned what teaching is costing them. Emmas links : http://www.facebook.com/makeyourmarketingcount https://www.coreplustuition.com/ http://linkedin.com/emma-harper-coreplustuition https://www.facebook.com/CorePlusTuition/ With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 055 - Pit Pony Jeanette Thompson-Wessen - Classroom to ADHD Nutritionist - Part 2 | 27 May 2025 | 00:59:17 | |
In Part 2 of our conversation with Jeannette Thompson-Wessen, the story turns even darker. After being shouted at while pregnant, ignored during risk assessments, and breaking down in front of students, Jeannette was left utterly broken. She describes a period of severe depression, suicidal thoughts, and the moment a school chose to send a parental complaint - on the very day she’d shared her mental health crisis. But this episode is also about survival and the long road to recovery. Jeannette opens up about rebuilding her life, her family’s support, and the power of leaving a toxic environment. She’s now a health and safety ISO consultant and ADHD nutritionist, helping others live healthier lives - because she refused to stay somewhere that made her unwell. Trigger Warning: Mental health, suicidal thoughts, pregnancy discrimination. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 054 - Pit Pony Jeanette Thompson-Wessen - Classroom to ADHD Nutritionist - Part 1 | 27 May 2025 | 00:45:44 | |
In this powerful first part of our conversation with Jeannette Thompson-Wessen, we hear how a passionate, dedicated food technology teacher went from being earmarked for leadership to being bullied, ignored and broken. After returning from maternity leave, the praise disappeared, the support vanished, and the treatment became so toxic it pushed her to the brink. Jeannette shares her early love of teaching, her impact on students in a deprived area, and how it all began to unravel – from sudden hostility to being shouted at while heavily pregnant. This episode is a raw and unfiltered look at what happens when good teachers are treated appallingly by the very systems that should protect them. Trigger Warning: Mental health, bullying, pregnancy discrimination. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 052 - Pit Pony David Myers - Classroom to Student Support Officer at Durham University - Part 1 | 20 May 2025 | 01:08:10 | |
Former maths teacher David Myers joins us for a gripping two-part conversation about his journey in and out of the classroom - and everything in between. In this first episode, we follow David from the early days of creative teaching and academic passion, through a toxic shift in school culture, the loss of professional autonomy, and the impact of long COVID on his well-being. From being told that “90% of teaching is marking” to experiencing mandated scripts, meaningless targets, and metacognition gone mad, David opens up about the moments that pushed him out of the profession he once loved. What shines through is his deep care for students, his passion for real learning, and his refusal to accept factory-model education. There’s resilience here, humour, and insight - and for any teacher questioning what comes next, David’s honesty will hit home. This is a story about burnout, boundaries, and finally saying “enough.” With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 053 - Pit Pony David Myers - Classroom to Student Support Officer at Durham University - Part 2 | 20 May 2025 | 00:56:01 | |
In Part 2 of our conversation with David Myers, we pick up at the point he finally walks away from teaching - and follow what happens next. From exploring tutoring, supply work and student support roles, to landing a new job at Durham University (in the castle, no less), David reflects on rebuilding his confidence, recovering from burnout, and rediscovering joy in his work. He shares what true leadership and professionalism really look like, and how one compassionate team changed everything. We also get that Sliding Doors moment – a beautiful story involving a formal dinner, Dumbledore vibes, and an Instagram post that stopped him in his tracks. This is an episode about healing, reclaiming your spark, and what it looks like when someone finally feels seen, safe and valued at work. 💛 It’s also about hope - and what’s possible on the other side of teaching. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 051 - Sliding Doors Stories - Part 8 | 16 May 2025 | 00:07:54 | |
In todays bonus episode of The Pit Pony Podcast, we bring you another trio of powerful Sliding Doors moments – those life-defining experiences shared by our guests since leaving the classroom. 🎙️ Rachael Daniel reflects on an event, that reminded her not all schools are toxic, and some can still feel like home. 🎙️ Kitty White shares how the simple act of walking through the woods in the morning – free from a timetable – helped her reconnect with nature, memory, and peace after personal loss. 🎙️ Rob Newland describes the sheer joy of walking his excitable spaniel in the Cornish countryside at lunchtime – something unimaginable during his teaching years. Each story is a gentle reminder that life on the other side of teaching can be calm, beautiful and yours to shape. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 050 - What do I do if I think I'm being bullied | 13 May 2025 | 00:50:40 | |
In this vital episode of The Pit Pony Podcast, Sharon and Sarah discuss one of the most common - and distressing - questions that surfaces in the Life After Teaching community: What do I do if I think I’m being bullied? Drawing on hundreds of real teacher experiences, they unpack the early warning signs, the subtle shifts in communication and behaviour, and the emotional toll that workplace bullying can take. You’ll learn:
This episode is both compassionate and fiercely practical. If something doesn’t feel right at work - or hasn’t for a while - this one’s for you. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 049 - Sliding Doors Stories - Part 7 | 09 May 2025 | 00:09:52 | |
In this special Sliding Doors bonus episode, we bring you three more powerful and deeply personal reflections from teachers who’ve exited the classroom and discovered unexpected joy, freedom, and purpose on the other side. 🎙 Hollie Jones shares the life-saving impact of leaving teaching - how being able to drop everything for her son’s emergency surgery reminded her what true flexibility looks like.
These stories are tender, raw, and often emotional - perfect reminders of why listening to your gut and stepping into a new chapter might just be the most powerful decision you'll ever make. Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 048 - Know Your Rights | 06 May 2025 | 00:49:36 | |
This week’s Pit Pony Podcast is a bit different - it’s just Sharon and Sarah, no guest, but lots of honesty, insight and real talk. We’re kicking off a three-part mini-series by tackling one of the biggest foundations of protecting yourself at work: knowing your rights. From understanding the Burgundy Book and STPCD (NB Sarah had a little moment and forgot that the ‘S’ stands for ‘School’!), to decoding part-time contracts, directed hours, capability procedures, and those "informal support plans" (spoiler: they're not really a thing) - we’re arming you with the knowledge you need. We also get a bit feisty about the dangers of assuming your school will always do the right thing - and how knowing your legal rights can empower you in tough situations. This is a must-listen if you're still in teaching, navigating challenges, or planning your exit. Subscribe and hit the bell so you don't miss it - and if you found this helpful, leave a comment or share it with a teacher who needs to hear it. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 047 - Sliding Doors Stories - Part 6 | 02 May 2025 | 00:09:52 | |
In this sixth edition of our beloved Sliding Doors Stories, we bring you three powerful moments from guests who, after leaving the classroom, found clarity, connection and joy in unexpected places. ✨ Katie Stone shares how her relationship with her daughter transformed – and how a trip to New Zealand gave her children a once-in-a-lifetime experience (and a new dream for Archie!). 💖 Sarah Cowan reflects on how one spontaneous weekend with her niece became a treasured memory – something she never could have said yes to while teaching. 🌱 Ruth O’Neill shows us how the relationships she’s now able to build with families go beyond teaching – into deep, meaningful connections, lasting impact, and even holidays in North Wales. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 046 - Sliding Doors - Sharon’s Story | 29 Apr 2025 | 00:33:44 | |
In this special episode of The Pit Pony Podcast, we’re turning the spotlight inward. For the first time, co-host Sharon Cawley shares her own powerful and deeply personal sliding doors story. More than just about leaving teaching, it’s about the moment Sharon reclaimed control of her life and showed what’s possible when we choose presence over pressure. Sharon reflects on how life outside of the classroom gave her the time, space and freedom to show up when it mattered most. Today, Sharon and Sarah explore the power of gratitude, glimmers, and choosing to live consciously after life-altering decisions. This episode is raw, reflective, and a beautiful reminder of why our small daily choices shape our biggest transformations. 🎧 For anyone at a crossroads - this one’s for you. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 045 - Pit Pony Ilana King - Classroom to Educational Consultant | 22 Apr 2025 | 01:09:40 | |
In this episode, we’re joined by the unstoppable Ilana King - educational consultant, entrance exam specialist, home educator, and all-round powerhouse. Ilana’s journey is far from typical. After just two years in the classroom, she knew it wasn’t the right fit - and rather than settle, she built something new. Literally. She created her own nursery from the ground up (on land she negotiated with a secondary school), ran it successfully, then sold it and pivoted again. She home educated her three children for 20 years and now sits at the heart of the tuition community, supporting families through 7+, 8+, and 11+ entrance exams and training other tutors to do the same. This episode is a masterclass in self-belief, values-led decisions, and building a career on your own terms. Whether you’re still in the classroom or already planning your escape, Ilana’s story will show you what’s possible when you refuse to be boxed in. Highlights include:
Ilana didn’t just leave teaching - she rewrote the script. You can find Ilana here: Website: Become An Entrance Exam Tutor Linkeding: https://linkedin.com/in/educationpathfinder Instagram @ilana_trainsentranceexamtutors With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 044 - Pit Pony Pete Scholes - Classroom to Driving Instructor & Author | 15 Apr 2025 | 00:43:57 | |
This week, we’re joined by the brilliant and unassuming Peter Scholes – a man who gave 21 years to the classroom before stepping away when shifting leadership turned a once-thriving school culture into something unrecognisable. In this heartfelt episode, Pete shares how the sudden departure of a beloved headteacher triggered a school-wide unraveling, leading to mass staff turnover, a loss of trust, and ultimately, his own departure. Now a successful driving instructor and published author, Pete talks openly about depression, rediscovering confidence, and the transferable skills that still shape his life today. ✨ It’s a powerful reminder that when one door closes, others truly do open – sometimes with a pen in one hand and car keys in the other. 📚 Links to Pete’s books can be found here
Don’t miss this one. With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 043 - Pit Pony Rob Newlands - Classroom to Financial Planner - Part 2 | 08 Apr 2025 | 01:29:35 | |
In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Rob Newlands takes us through the devastating fallout of his time in headship - and the turning point that changed everything. After months of isolation, impossible expectations, and systemic failure, Rob faced a brutal mocksted that delivered the final blow. What followed was a silent breakdown behind closed doors, a desperate call to his GP, and the realisation that he had to leave the profession to survive. Rob shares the raw truth about what it feels like to hit rock bottom - the shame, the self-doubt, and the guilt so many teachers carry when they can no longer keep going. But this is also a story of recovery, purpose, and the surprising path he found on the other side of education. This episode is a lifeline for anyone who’s been made to feel they’re “not enough,” despite giving everything they had. If you've ever questioned your worth, your resilience, or your ability to start again - Rob’s story is for you. Useful links : Facebook: Rob Newlands- Financial Planner | Falmouth Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robnewlands.dswm/ Dean Stevens Wealth Management: https://www.deanstevenswm.co.uk/ With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 042 - Pit Pony Rob Newlands - Classroom to Financial Planner - Part 1 | 08 Apr 2025 | 00:51:54 | |
In the first of this two-part special, we meet Rob Newlands, a former headteacher who climbed the leadership ladder quickly - only to face a stark and painful reality at the top. At just 30 years old, Rob stepped into a headship in Cornwall, full of energy, purpose, and a belief that he could make a difference. But what awaited him was far from the job he signed up for. From day one, Rob was met with missing policies, no induction, and the expectation to lead full-time while also teaching full-time… and that was just the start. In Part 1, Rob walks us through the impossible conditions he faced - covering everything from safeguarding and site maintenance to the challenges of running a school with rising SEND needs and no structural support. His story is a raw and powerful account of what happens when passionate leaders are left to sink or swim with no safety net. This episode shines a light on systemic failings, the mental toll of unsupported leadership, and the unravelling that can occur when cries for help go unanswered. Rob’s honesty and humility make this an unforgettable listen. Rob's links : Facebook: Rob Newlands- Financial Planner | Falmouth Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robnewlands.dswm/ Dean Stevens Wealth Management: https://www.deanstevenswm.co.uk/ With thanks to our episode sponsors (Click to visit their websites): Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 041 - Pit Pony Kitty White - Classroom to Holiday Cottages Business Manager | 01 Apr 2025 | 00:55:49 | |
Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? Kitty White never imagined she’d leave teaching - she was in it for life. But after years of battling anxiety, disillusionment, and a crushing sense of being lost, she made a brave leap out of the classroom and into something completely different. In this powerful episode, Kitty reflects on the emotional toll teaching took on her, how she slowly rebuilt herself, and how she found new purpose (and peace) as the Business Development Manager of Cozy Holiday Cottages in the Yorkshire Dales. Her story is full of raw honesty, gentle humour, and hope - and reminds us that it’s never too late to choose yourself. Useful links : Website - https://cozyholidaycottages.co.uk/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/cozyholidaycottages/ - - - - - - 💚 This episode is proudly sponsored by the National Teaching and Advisory Service (NTAS) a brilliant organisation supporting children and young people not in mainstream education through one-to-one teaching. If you’re a teacher looking for a more flexible, meaningful way to use your skills outside the classroom, NTAS are always looking for passionate professionals to join them. Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 040 - Pit Pony Rachael Daniel - Classroom to Development Officer | 25 Mar 2025 | 01:10:51 | |
What happens when a dedicated teacher realises that the career she once loved is no longer the right fit? In this episode, we sit down with Rachael Daniel, who made the bold decision to step away from teaching and carve out a new path. Rachael takes us through the highs and lows of her transition - from the moment she knew she had to leave, to the doubts that nearly held her back, and the surprising opportunities that opened up once she took the leap. She shares how she navigated financial fears, rediscovered her confidence, and built a career that aligns with her values and passions. Expect raw honesty, practical advice, and plenty of inspiration for anyone considering a major career shift. If you’re feeling stuck in a job that no longer serves you, Rachael’s story might just be the nudge you need. 🎧 Listen now and get ready to rethink what’s possible. A big shout-out to our sponsor, Full of Beans! Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 039 - Pit Pony Grant Decker - Classroom to Record Store Owner | 18 Mar 2025 | 01:10:40 | |
This week on The Pit Pony Podcast, we sit down with the incredible Grant Decker – a former teacher whose love for music led him to open his own record shop. After years in the classroom, supporting students with complex needs, Grant realised it was time for a change. In this episode, he shares his inspiring journey from education to entrepreneurship, the challenges of balancing work and family, and how he built a thriving business from his passion for vinyl. Thinking about your own exit strategy? Grant’s story is proof that it can be done! Useful links : https://linktr.ee/vinylshakedownrecords https://www.facebook.com/vinylshakedown https://www.instagram.com/vinylshakedown _ _ _ _ _ _ _ P.S. Big shoutout to our sponsors, the National Teaching & Advisory Service (NT&AS), who do incredible work supporting children who aren't in mainstream education. They provide one-to-one teaching, working with young people who need that extra bit of care, whether they're in foster care, have additional needs, or just need help getting back on track. If you're a teacher looking for a change but still want to make a difference, they are always on the lookout for passionate educators. Check out ntas.org.uk and see how you can get involved! Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 038 - Pit Pony Paul Lennon - Classroom to NHS Health Adviser | 11 Mar 2025 | 01:25:29 | |
In this episode of the Pit Pony Podcast, we sit down with Paul Lennon, a former teacher with 28 years of experience in secondary schools across the UK and around the world. Paul started his career as a PE teacher, eventually working his way up to head of department, assistant principal, and IB Diploma Coordinator. But his journey took an unexpected and deeply challenging turn when he found himself in a toxic school environment that left him battling anxiety, self-doubt, and ultimately a panic attack that forced him to walk away. Paul shares:
· The power struggles and bullying culture that made his final school unbearable · The moment he physically couldn’t enter the building—and the turning point that followed · How leaving education led him to a new career in the NHS, where he’s found professional fulfilment and purpose This is an eye-opening conversation about resilience, leadership, and what happens when great teachers are pushed out by toxic cultures. If you’ve ever felt trapped in a job that no longer aligns with your values, Paul’s story will resonate deeply. 🎧 Listen now and discover how he rebuilt his life after teaching. Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 037 - Pit Pony Hollie Jones - Classroom to Neurodivergent Educator - Part 2 | 04 Mar 2025 | 01:34:22 | |
In this second part to Hollie Jones’ story, we dive deeper into her legal battle for workplace justice, the emotional toll of discrimination, and the life-changing shift that followed. After an appalling "well-being" call that questioned her ADHD diagnosis, Hollie knew she was facing more than ignorance - she was up against systemic failure. With unwavering determination, she documented every step, stood her ground, and ultimately forced those in power to reckon with their treatment of neurodivergent staff. In this episode, Hollie shares:
Hollie's is a story of demanding change, knowing your worth, and proving that neurodivergent professionals belong in every workplace. Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 036 - Pit Pony Hollie Jones - Classroom to Neurodivergent Educator - Part 1 | 04 Mar 2025 | 01:03:33 | |
In this powerful two-part episode, we sit down with Hollie Jones, a former teacher turned neurodiversity practitioner, whose journey out of the classroom is one of resilience, advocacy, and hard-won justice. Hollie always believed teaching was her lifelong career - until she faced systemic barriers, discrimination, and a lack of understanding about neurodivergent needs in the workplace. What started as a request for simple, reasonable adjustments quickly spiralled into a legal battle for her rights. In this first part of her story, Hollie opens up about:
Hollie's journey is one about standing up, speaking out, and setting a precedent for others facing similar challenges. Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 035 - Pit Pony Ruth O'Neill - Classroom to SEND Consultant and Tutor | 25 Feb 2025 | 01:02:46 | |
In today's episode of The Pit Pony Podcast, we sit down with Ruth O’Neill, an educator who spent over 20 years in the classroom before stepping into a new role as a SEND consultant and English tutor. Ruth’s journey took her from teaching in the UK to classrooms in Cairo and Costa Rica, before returning home to take on a challenging SENCO role. Over time, the pressures of the role, increasing workload, and systemic challenges pushed her to breaking point. Ruth opens up about the realities of working in SEND, the emotional and professional toll of the job, and how she ultimately found a new, fulfilling way to use her expertise outside of traditional education. Now, she supports families navigating the SEND system, helps children access the right support, and provides English tuition—all on her own terms. If you’ve ever wondered what life after teaching could look like, or if you’re a SENCO questioning your next steps, this episode is for you. Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
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| 034 - Pit Pony Sarah Cowen - Classroom to Head of Domestic Abuse Services | 18 Feb 2025 | 01:11:03 | |
This week’s episode is a powerful one. We sit down with Sarah Cowen, a former drama teacher who never planned to teach—until she fell in love with the profession. But after 18 years, she faced the realisation that her boundaries, well-being, and identity had been eroded over time. Sarah’s story is one of deep reflection, empowerment, and transition. Now working as Head of Domestic Abuse Services, she shares: ✨ How she went from ‘accidental teacher’ to Mary Poppins of education, parachuting into struggling departments and making them thrive.
✨ The exact moment she decided to leave—triggered by the now-famous Pit Pony video. ⏳ Why she once fantasised about being hospitalised for six months just to escape work. This conversation is raw, honest, and so relatable for anyone who has ever normalised the unacceptable in teaching. With thanks to Natalie Watkins of Pure Coaching Academy for sponsorship of this episode. Find out more here: https://purecoachingacademy.com Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 033 - Sliding Doors Stories - Part 5 | 14 Feb 2025 | 00:08:18 | |
Welcome to another Sliding Doors Stories bonus episode, where we celebrate the incredible transformations our guests have experienced since leaving the classroom. In this episode, we hear from: ✨ Leanne Herring – from teacher to voice artist & content creator. ✨ Mark Thompson – from teacher to TV & film chaperone. ✨ Amy MacDonald – from teacher to forest school leader & content creator. Each of these stories is a powerful reminder that life after teaching can be filled with joy, fulfillment, and unexpected opportunities. ☕ Support the podcast! If you love these stories, help keep them coming by buying us a coffee. Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 032 - Pit Pony Katie Stone - Classroom to Virtual Assistant Agency Owner | 11 Feb 2025 | 01:06:20 | |
Today, we sit down with Katie Stone, a former primary school teacher who left the classroom after facing work-related stress and the pressures of an informal support plan. Katie opens up about the emotional toll of teaching, the challenges of leaving, and how she found a new path that gave her both freedom and fulfilment. Now the owner of a successful virtual assistant agency, Katie shares how she turned her organisational skills, multitasking abilities, and work ethic - honed in teaching - into a thriving business supporting education professionals. From dealing with rejection sensitivity to embracing entrepreneurship, this is a powerful story about resilience, reinvention, and reclaiming control over your career and life. We also discuss the controversial role of "support plans" in education, their impact on teachers, and why so many educators are forced to exit instead of being truly supported. 🎙️ Listen now and discover how Katie built a career on her own terms—one that allows her to attend school nativities, travel the world, and support her family while doing work she loves. 📌 Resources & Links: 🔗 Visit Katie's Website Here With thanks to Natalie Watkins of Pure Coaching Academy for sponsorship of this episode. Find out more here: https://purecoachingacademy.com Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 031 - Sliding Doors Stories - Part 4 | 07 Feb 2025 | 00:07:02 | |
We’re back with another special bonus episode of The Pit Pony Podcast - Sliding Doors Stories, Part 4! In this episode, we revisit those powerful moments when our guests reflect on the incredible experiences they’ve had since leaving the classroom. This week, we hear from: 🎨 Jane Lloyd – From classroom teacher to artist, embracing a life filled with creativity, fresh air, and even a pet sheep!
As always, if you love what we do, make sure to subscribe, share, and leave a review! If you've been enjoying the podcast, laughing with us, and feeling inspired by the incredible stories we share, we’d love your support! We've set up a Buy Me a Coffee link, so if you're loving what we do and want to help us keep the episodes coming, you can now make a small donation. See you on the other side. Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 030 - Pit Pony Amy MacDonald - From Classroom to Forest School Leader and Curriculum Writer | 04 Feb 2025 | 01:08:05 | |
This week, we welcome Amy MacDonald, a former primary school teacher who transformed her love for teaching outdoors into a fulfilling new career. Amy’s journey is one of resilience, self-discovery, and inspiration, showing us that life after teaching can be rich with opportunities. In this episode, Amy shares: Amy’s story will inspire anyone considering a new chapter or looking to align their work with their passions. As always, thank you for being part of our amazing Pit Pony community. Your support helps us share these transformative stories every week. Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 029 - Sliding Doors Stories - Part 3 | 31 Jan 2025 | 00:19:37 | |
We’re thrilled to bring you another Sliding Doors Stories bonus episode! This special collection features incredible moments from our guests that truly capture the magic of life after teaching. In this episode, we revisit the inspiring reflections of: ✨ Rae Dillon – From classroom teacher to copywriter. Celebrating her dream wedding in Bora Bora - something teaching would never have allowed.
Sharing an emotional and deeply personal story about resilience, family, and how leaving teaching saved her future.
Taking control of his success, enjoying financial freedom, a dream trip, and making memories. Thank you for being part of our Pit Pony community - we couldn’t do this without you! Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||
| 028 - Pit Pony Mark Thompson - Classroom to TV & Film Chaperone | 28 Jan 2025 | 00:39:43 | |
Mark Thompson is a former computing and business studies teacher with over 18 years of experience in education. Loving the Pit Pony Podcast? We’d be so grateful for your support! We’ve set up a Buy Me a Coffee page where you can make a small donation to help keep the podcast running. https://buymeacoffee.com/thepitponyclub Voice Message Us: https://www.speakpipe.com/pitponypodcast Contribute to our 'Silenced by Support' Campaign - complete the questionnaire, read the report, sign up to the mailing list. If you've been affected by any of the issues raised in our podcast there are organisations who can help:
Thanks for listening 🙏 | |||