Adam Voigt: School Culture & The Daily Interactions That Matter | Episode 157
“Culture is shaped by the behaviours we encourage and the ones we tolerate.” – Adam Voigt
In this episode, Meg chats with education leader and founder of Real Schools, Adam Voigt, for a practical and honest conversation about what school culture really is and how it’s created.
Together, they explore the daily interactions, expectations and relationships that influence the way a school feels and functions.
This is a grounded and hopeful conversation for educators and leaders who want to strengthen connection, trust and wellbeing in their school community.
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Chapter Markers
- 01:20 What school culture really means
- 06:45 Relationships as the first cultural indicator
- 12:10 The impact of COVID on engagement and respect
- 18:30 What has changed in schools over the last decade
- 23:40 Reflection as adjustment, not judgment
- 28:55 Positive reinforcement vs control-based models
- 35:20 Restorative Practice 2.0
- 41:10 Low-energy, high-return cultural shifts
- 47:00 The role of staff wellbeing
- 52:20 Final reflections
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Deliberate Actions
- Notice the everyday interactions as you walk through your school. These moments reveal the true culture more than any document or policy.
- Acknowledge positive behaviour from students and colleagues. Small moments of thanks build trust and reinforce what matters.
- Reflect for adjustment, not judgment. Ask yourself: “What’s one small shift I can make to support a healthier culture here?”
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Episode 157 Shownotes - Click here.
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Adam Voigt LinkedIn | Website | Books
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Meg Durham - Website | LinkedIn | Instagram
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