In this episode of Learning Conversations, Lyndal Tait speaks with executive and business coach Kathryn Martens about the experiences of neurodivergent adults working in schools. Drawing on her professional expertise and her own experience of late diagnosis, Kathryn explores masking, overwhelm and burnout, and the small changes that can make workplaces more inclusive not just for neurodivergent, but for everyone. The conversation also celebrates the strengths neurodivergent people can bring to schools, including innovative thinking, seeing both the big picture and fine detail, and direct, authentic communication.

Kathryn Martens

Kathryn is an executive and business coach and the founding director of Release Leadership, a company that provides coaching, leadership development consultancy, andprofessional supervision. Kathryn has a background in clinical education, entrepreneurship, and senior management. She brings a well-rounded perspective shaped by lived experience along with her work across a diverse range of industries and leadership roles. She is a specialist in developing neurodivergent leaders, an executive and business coach, leadership development consultant, and professional supervisor. She seeks to create environments where diverse leaders can thrive.

Resources: https://www.releaseleadership.au/

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In this episode of Learning Conversations, Dr Andrew Martin—registered psychologist and Professor of Educational Psychology—explores the well-documented “motivation dip” that often emerges in Years 8 and 9. He unpacks the developmental, social, and academic factors contributing to this decline in engagement and explains why maintaining strong academic structure, while intentionally supporting students’ social, emotional, and extracurricular needs, is critical during this stage.

Dr Martin introduces his Motivation and Engagement Wheel, a practical framework grounded in key educational psychology theories that helps teachers translate research into classroom-ready strategies. Throughout the conversation, he emphasises the powerful link between academic motivation and social-emotional wellbeing, advocating for integrated approaches that strengthen both learning and belonging.

The discussion also highlights the role of schools in fostering community, addressing mental health, and equipping staff through targeted counselling programs and professional learning. Dr Martin outlines the principles of autonomy-supportive teaching—balancing clear structure with meaningful student agency—to enhance engagement and resilience.

Looking ahead, the episode explores the impact of generative AI on student learning, including the importance of “load reduction instruction” to ensure deep understanding in an AI-enabled world. Ultimately, this conversation centres on a shared goal: developing confident, creative young people who embrace challenge, view mistakes as opportunities for growth, and remain meaningfully engaged in their learning journey.

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Blake Johnston is a three-time world record-holding endurance athlete and mental health advocate. In 2023, Blake captured global attention by surfing non-stop for over 40 hours, catching 707 waves, and raising vital awareness for mental health. He went on to lead the World’s Biggest Paddleout, with 1,027 participants linking arms to celebrate connection and community, and most recently set another world-first by surfing over 4,000 waves at URBNSURF.

Blake is also a published author, with his debut book Swellbeing set for release on September 30, 2025, where he shares his story and the practical tools that help people not only survive life’s challenges but thrive.

In this conversation Blake shares the importance of wellbeing and resilience, particularly in the context of R U OK Day. He speaks about overcoming adversity, including his father's suicide, and emphasises the role of daily habits and community in mental health. He highlights the significance of curiosity, vulnerability, and empathy in fostering resilience.

Inaburra Insight is a podcast produced by Inaburra School. This recording was made on the land of the Dharawal people who we acknowledge as the traditional custodians. We pay our respects to their elders past and present. On this land, beliefs, knowledge and culture have been shared across many generations and it continues to be a place of teaching and learning.

** Content Warning **

This podcast talks about suicide and may be triggering for some individuals. Listener discretion is advised. If you or someone you know is struggling, please contact one of the services below for support.

Lifeline Australia

R U OK

Beyond Blue

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