Shared stories, diverse settings: a podcast analysis of stakeholder experiences in rural, remote, and international professional experience

This study explores the experiences and perspectives of individuals involved in rural, remote, and international professional experience, with a particular focus on the support provided to pre-service teachers. Drawing on data generated through a series of in-depth podcast interviews, the research foregrounds the relational and contextual dimensions of teacher preparation across rural, remote, and international settings. Rural and remote communities face ongoing challenges in attracting and retaining teachers; therefore, this study explored the vital role that partnerships and supportive networks play in preparing pre-service teachers to succeed in these and other unfamiliar professional experience contexts. Through thematic analysis, the research identified key enablers such as strong mentorship, community integration, and professional identity development. By drawing on perspectives across professional roles through podcasting—an emerging qualitative method—this work aims to emphasise the transformative potential of a shared commitment to nurturing well-supported educators in these essential communities.