In this episode of Lead Her Higher, host Emily MacLean sits down with Kath Murdoch, internationally respected educator, author, and advocate for inquiry-based education.

Kath reflects on her journey from classroom teacher to global thought collaborator in education, while challenging traditional definitions of leadership. She shares why she does not see leadership as a title or destination, but as a way of being, grounded in curiosity, vulnerability, collaboration, and a deep commitment to learning.

Together, they explore how inquiry shapes not only student engagement but also leadership practice and professional growth. Kath speaks candidly about navigating uncertainty, leading through influence rather than authority, and the responsibility experienced educators have to lift others along the way.

Key Takeaways:

• Leadership is not positional - influence can exist without formal authority.
• Inquiry is not just a teaching strategy; it is a stance toward learning and leadership.
• Curiosity and vulnerability are essential for building trust and strong school cultures.
• Women in leadership often lead through collaboration, relationships, and relational trust.
• Professional learning must mirror the inquiry we want to see in classrooms.
• Listening deeply is one of the most powerful and most challenging leadership skills.
• Experienced educators have a responsibility to nurture and elevate emerging leaders.

This episode is a powerful reminder that leadership lives in classrooms, in staff rooms, and in everyday acts of integrity and care. Whether you are a teacher, school leader, or educational changemaker, this conversation will leave you inspired to lead with courage, cultivate curiosity, and always keep learning.

Listen now to Kath’s journey and be inspired to Lead Her Higher.

Keywords: leadership, education, women in leadership, student-centred, teaching, curriculum, self-care, collaboration, inquiry, professional learning, curiosity, influence

In this episode of Lead Her Higher, Emily MacLean sits down with Tanya De Hoog, Junior School Principal at Southridge School, to explore an unexpected leadership journey shaped by courage, mentorship, and deep commitment to student-centred learning.

Tanya reflects on stepping into leadership early, developing her voice, and leading with what she calls “soft, elegant armour”, balancing empathy, decisiveness, and authenticity. From curriculum passion to navigating crisis, mentorship, and finding joy outside of work, this conversation offers an honest look at the human side of school leadership and the power of imagining possibilities for ourselves and others.

Key takeaways:

• Leadership journeys are often unexpected - growth happens when you say yes before you feel ready.
• Confidence with adults often develops later than confidence with students - mentorship matters.
• Trust is built through transparency, especially during moments of uncertainty or crisis.
• Collaboration strengthens decisions, but clarity and decisiveness are still essential.
• Compassionate leadership focuses on listening, presence, and honouring teachers’ agency.
• Mentorship, both giving and receiving, is critical in developing women leaders.
• Personal well-being fuels sustainable leadership - joy, hobbies, and boundaries matter.
• Leaders don’t have to do everything perfectly. Permission to pause is powerful.
• Leading higher begins with self-awareness and imagining possibilities for yourself and others.

Listen now to Tanya’s journey and be inspired to Lead Her Higher.

Keywords: leadership, education, junior school, women in leadership, student-centred, mentorship, confidence, teaching, curriculum, self-care

In this episode, Lead Her Higher host Emily MacLean is joined by Rachel Marks, Deputy Principal at Lauremont School in Richmond Hill, Canada, for a powerful conversation about leadership transitions, courage, and impact.

Rachel shares her journey from leading the Junior School with deep relational presence to stepping into a broader, system-level leadership role as Deputy Principal. Her insights remind us that while transitions can be challenging, they also provide opportunities for growth and collaboration. Her reflections speak directly to a question many women in education grapple with: When is the right time to take the leap, even when the timing doesn’t feel perfect? Rachel illustrates the power of embracing change and supporting others in their leadership aspirations. By fostering connections and encouraging courageous conversations, we can create a more inclusive environment for women in leadership roles.

This episode explores:
• Letting go of certainty and redefining leadership identity
• Balancing heart-centered leadership with strategic decision-making
• The role of mentorship and sponsorship in lifting women into leadership
• Why women belong in rooms where decisions are made

Rachel co-founded Uplift/LiftUp, an annual Women in Leadership event hosted at Lauremont School,in partnership with CIS Ontario. The next event is March 4, 2026. In addition, she leads the Women in Leadership Model of the CAIS Leadership Institute, for leaders across independent schools in Canada.

Keywords: leadership, women in leadership, mentorship, professional growth, educational leadership, career transition, empathy, strategic planning, community building, personal development