In this episode of the Pit Pony Podcast, we sit down with Paul Lennon, a former teacher with 28 years of experience in secondary schools across the UK and around the world. Paul started his career as a PE teacher, eventually working his way up to head of department, assistant principal, and IB Diploma Coordinator.

But his journey took an unexpected and deeply challenging turn when he found himself in a toxic school environment that left him battling anxiety, self-doubt, and ultimately a panic attack that forced him to walk away.

Paul shares:

· His fascinating globetrotting teaching career, from Japan to Africa to Russia and beyond

· The power struggles and bullying culture that made his final school unbearable

· The moment he physically couldn’t enter the building—and the turning point that followed

· How leaving education led him to a new career in the NHS, where he’s found professional fulfilment and purpose

This is an eye-opening conversation about resilience, leadership, and what happens when great teachers are pushed out by toxic cultures. If you’ve ever felt trapped in a job that no longer aligns with your values, Paul’s story will resonate deeply.

🎧 Listen now and discover how he rebuilt his life after teaching.

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Edited with finesse by our Podcast Super Producer, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real