Phosphorescent Leaders – Absorbing the Work and Emitting the Voice 

-written by Todd McElroy, Esperance Chapter Chair

Dressed in a hot pink jacket and sporting a trendy mohawk, Kristen Douglas, with 28 years of experience in education and health systems and a passionate advocate for mental health, wowed the crowd with her infectious energy and humour as she tackled one of the most pressing topics facing educational leaders today: unpacking the balance between personal and professional well-being in the face of psychological challenges. 

Kristen delivered a high impact, energising presentation that resonated deeply with the audience. From an engaging crash course in brain neuroscience to practical, real-world strategies for maintaining balance and avoiding burnout, she delivered both substance and inspiration in spades. 

Her 12-Step Plan offered clear, actionable strategies that leaders could begin implementing immediately: 

• Create space for reflective practice – Get up on the balcony and out of the weeds to see the bigger picture. 

• Pulse check your staff and teams regularly. 

• Inject joy, humour, and moments of lightness into your team culture. 

• Celebrate achievements – big or small. 

• Continuously review your practice – What to STOP, START, and KEEP doing. 

• Be a leader who listens. 

• Reflect personally – What do you need to do your job well between now and December? 

• Ask what your school community needs in Term 3 and 4. 

• Engage with the Headspace National Guidelines for Primary Schools. 

• Join the National Pilot Reflective Practice program for Australian school leaders. 

• Connect with your local Be You Regional Team Member. 

• Become your own Batman. 

That last point, “Become your own Batman “perfectly encapsulated Kristen’s message: Own your power, take control of your well-being, and show up as the hero your community needs. 

With her signature blend of science, humour, lived experience, and storytelling, Kristen created a space not just for learning, but for reflection, connection, and laughter. While the information may not have been entirely new, it offered a much-needed opportunity to top up our leadership toolkits a toolkit designed to help navigate the increasing intensity and emotional challenges of the education sector. 

And just when the energy couldn’t go any higher, she led the crowd in a rousing rendition of Sweet Caroline, perfectly setting the theme for the Gala Dinner. Kristen shone bright like a diamond (a hot pink one, of course). 

Walking away from Kristen’s session, I felt not only more knowledgeable but also more conscious of my stressors and better equipped with practical strategies to reflect on and maintain my mental health and well-being. It’s not just about surviving leadership; it’s about thriving through it.