Fay starts by sharing stories of her early life, highlighting the challenges she faced growing up and how basketball became a powerful force in her life. More than just a game, basketball offered Fay an outlet, a purpose, and the skills that would shape her future. As she explains, sports weren’t merely an activity but a lifeline that helped her navigate the struggles of youth. Through basketball, she learned discipline, resilience, and the value of teamwork—qualities she would later pass on to students in her professional life.
Following her passion, Fay initially pursued a path in sports but ultimately found her calling in education. She devoted over 30 years to working in Special Educational Needs and Mental Health (SEMH) schools, primarily helping young people facing significant behavioral and emotional challenges. Fay worked in various roles throughout her career, including as a behavior manager. This role, while challenging, allowed her to combine her passion for sports with her desire to make a difference in the lives of students. She leveraged her background in basketball to connect with students, many of whom benefited from having a supportive figure who believed in their potential.
In the podcast, Fay dives into her philosophy on behavior management, emphasizing the importance of understanding each student as an individual. Rather than simply enforcing rules, Fay believes in building trust and using empathy to understand the root causes of a child’s behavior. She explains that, to her, every challenging behavior is a form of communication. By listening closely, teachers and staff can address underlying issues, making a real impact on a student’s future. Her approach is rooted in patience and compassion, making her a respected and beloved figure in the SEMH community.
Fay’s career took an unexpected turn when she appeared on the BBC show Traitors, a hit series that brought her into the national spotlight. Through her time on the show, Fay became known for her genuine personality, strategic mindset, and ability to connect with others—qualities she honed over years in education. Her experience on Traitors not only made her famous but also allowed her to advocate for the values she holds dear, like resilience, teamwork, and trust.
During her conversation with Cameron, Fay also underscores the importance of sports in building essential life skills. She speaks passionately about how sports foster discipline, teamwork, and perseverance—traits that are crucial not only on the court but also in the classroom and beyond. She hopes to inspire others to see sports as a tool for personal growth, especially for young people who may need structure and support in their lives.
This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in education, youth development, or Fay’s unique path. Her story reminds us that a fulfilling life often includes unexpected turns, and that the skills we gain along the way—whether on a basketball court, in a classroom, or on a television set—can empower us to make a lasting impact on those around us.
