S2:E6: Stacie Skehan – Listening, Leading, and Learning in Remote Communities

In this episode of Conversations with Courageous Educators, Luke George speaks with Stacie Skehan—a leader whose superpower is curiosity, and whose strength lies in listening deeply to understand, not just to respond.

Stacie takes us on a powerful journey from her first teaching role in the tiny outback community of Warnkurna to leading as principal at Wananami Remote Community School. Her story is one of humility, cultural integration, and co-creating education with community at the centre. 

She shares how the Trust Triangle shaped her leadership and why sustainable school success comes from empathy, authentic relationships, and a willingness to lead with the community—not just for it. Stacie reminds us that true impact in education isn’t about quick fixes—it’s about legacies that last long after the leader has moved on. 

If you’re passionate about inclusive leadership, Indigenous education, or building trust in tough environments—this conversation is a must.

To watch the full episode on YouTube, follow this link: https://youtu.be/5edmzrkZLgQ

Click here to take the free 2-minute Mental Fitness Quiz: https://luke-gyrykiho.scoreapp.com/

For more information about how By George can help your school please check out our website at www.by-george.com.au

Chapters

• 0:06 Stacie's Early Teaching Experience in Remote Australia
• 0:06 Introduction and Guest Welcome
• 5:40 Challenges and Rewards of Remote Teaching
• 6:50 Transition to Principalship
• 8:03 Journey to the New School
• 16:05 Building a School Community
• 20:05 Setting High Standards for Kids
• 21:00 Challenges in Literacy and Numeracy
• 21:20 Reviving Lost Culture
• 22:00 Building Trust and Vision
• 24:03 The Trust Triangle
• 27:00 Empathy and Listening
• 29:08 Language Program Breakthrough
• 33:13 Sustaining Community-Driven Success
• 42:40 Advice for Young Educators
• 43:20 Finding Balance and Downtime
• 44:04 Final Thoughts on Education