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.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Lyndal Tait hosts a conversation with Andrew McDonald Brown, an executive coach with over 35 years experience in education, about the importance of trust in leadership. Brown emphasises the role of coaching in enhancing leadership and team effectiveness, citing his experience in the Middle East and China. He discusses the impact of trust on team performance, referencing research by Patrick Lencioni and Harvard Business Review, which shows that high trust leads to increased engagement and productivity. Brown also explores the anatomy of trust, referencing Brene Brown and Daniel Goldman, and suggests strategies for building trust, such as authenticity, reliability, and empathy.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.