Welcome Laura Beltran! Laura is Principal of St. Joseph's Catholic High School in Windsor, Ontario. With 31 years of experience in education, Laura shares her journey from aspiring pediatrician to passionate educator. She discusses the importance of equity, inclusion, and student well-being, as well as her leadership in unique programs like Hockey for Youth and the Benevolence Café. Laura also reflects on the impact of international service trips, experiential learning, and the power of building meaningful relationships with students. Her commitment to creating a culture of kindness and belonging shines through every story.

Guest Bio: Laura Beltran, Principal of St. Joseph’s Catholic High School in Windsor, Ontario, has dedicated 31 years to education with the Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board. Committed to equity, inclusion, and student well-being, she fosters a school culture of kindness and belonging. Beyond academics, she leads initiatives like Hockey4Youth and her Benevolence Café, ensuring students feel valued, supported, and empowered.

Social Media:

• Facebook: @Laura Tillie
• Instagram: @fadtballcoachlaura

Thanks for listening to the show! It means so much to us that you listened to our podcast! If you would like to continue the conversation, please email me at allen@drallenlycka.com.

This show is built on “The Secrets to Living A Fantastic Life.” Get your copy by visiting: https://secretsbook.now.site/home

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✅ This Podcast is not only available at Webtalkradio.com but all the major social podcast platforms. Additionally, you can watch it on AppleTV, Roku and Amazon Firestick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors app or visit www.expertsandauthors.tv and click “The Elite Educator”

Leave a review: We appreciate your feedback, as every little bit helps us produce even better shows. We want to bring value to your day, and have you join us time and again. Ratings and reviews from our listeners not only help us improve, but also help others find us in their podcast app. If you have a minute, an honest review on iTunes or your favorite app goes a long way! Thank you!

Rhae-Ann Holoien—Superintendent of Battle River School Division—shares powerful insights from her 30+ years in education. From growing up in a family of educators to leading division-wide transformation, Rhae-Ann reveals how she builds inclusive school cultures, prioritizes well-being, and leads with authenticity. Whether you're a teacher, leader, or education advocate, you'll gain practical strategies and renewed inspiration to help students and staff thrive

Guest Bio: Rhae-Ann has over 30 years of experience as an educator and is in her second year as superintendent in the Battle River School Division. She is passionate about fostering educational excellence, supporting staff and students, and ensuring all students have access to high-quality learning opportunities. In addition to her professional role, Rhae-Ann is a dedicated mom, wife, daughter, sister, and grandma.

Social Media: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhae-ann-holoien-79222045/

Battle River School Division handles:

• Facebook: @battleriver31
• Instagram: @battleriverschooldivision
• Twitter: @battlerriver31

Thanks for listening to the show! It means so much to us that you listened to our podcast! If you would like to continue the conversation, please email me at allen@drallenlycka.com.

This show is built on “The Secrets to Living A Fantastic Life.” Get your copy by visiting: https://secretsbook.now.site/home

Dr. Allen Lycka’s Social Media Links

• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/drallenlycka
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Subscribe to the show. We would be honored to have you subscribe to the show, just use the podcast app on your mobile device.

Leave a review. We appreciate your feedback, as every little bit helps us produce even better shows. We want to bring value to your day, and have you join us time and again. Ratings and reviews from our listeners not only help us improve, but also help others find us in their podcast app. If you have a minute, an honest review on iTunes or your favorite app goes a long way! Thank you!

Dr. Lycka is joined by Paul Turner, a veteran Language and Literature teacher whose journey into education began with an unexpected pivot from law enforcement. With nearly three decades of classroom experience, Paul shares his love for experiential learning, the value of cultural immersion, and the impact of international student trips. His story is a powerful reminder of how resilience and curiosity shape not just students—but the educators who guide them.

Guest Bio: Paul Turner is a seasoned Language and Literature teacher at Upper Canada College with 28 years of experience, focusing on foundational skill-building for Year 8 and 9 students. A champion of experiential education, Paul has organized transformative student trips to places like Mexico and Costa Rica, blending travel with cultural and community service learning. Deeply committed to student engagement inside and outside the classroom, Paul continues to find purpose and passion in teaching—with no signs of slowing down.

Social Media: Contacted Paul at: pturner@ucc.on.ca

Thanks for listening to the show! It means so much to us that you listened to our podcast! If you would like to continue the conversation, please email me at allen@drallenlycka.com.

This show is built on “The Secrets to Living A Fantastic Life.” Get your copy by visiting: https://secretsbook.now.site/home

Dr. Allen Lycka’s Social Media Links

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Subscribe to the show. We would be honored to have you subscribe to the show, just use the podcast app on your mobile device.

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Leave a review - We appreciate your feedback, as every little bit helps us produce even better shows. We want to bring value to your day, and have you join us time and again. Ratings and reviews from our listeners not only help us improve, but also help others find us in their podcast app. If you have a minute, an honest review on iTunes or your favorite app goes a long way! Thank you!

We’re bringing back one of our most beloved episodes of The Elite Educator! Join Dr. Al as he reconnects with Bryan Burns, principal of Matthew Halton High School in Pincher Creek, Alberta—a place close to both their hearts. From growing up in Ontario to leading with purpose in Southern Alberta, Bryan shares his journey with warmth, humor, and, yes, a few standout sock choices.

In this encore, you'll hear how Bryan’s authentic leadership style has shaped school culture, strengthened community ties, and turned everyday moments—like hallway chats and hat days—into powerful tools for connection. He also shares how launching a Hockey Academy helped re-engage students and build pride in the school. It’s a refreshing reminder that showing up, being real, and believing in every student can transform a school—sailor’s hat optional.

Perfect for: Educators, school leaders, and anyone who believes culture and connection are key to student success.

Guest Bio: Bryan Burns is the Principal of Matthew Halton High School in Pincher Creek, Alberta. Now in his second year as Principal, he previously served as Assistant Principal for three years and has been part of the school community for a decade. Bryan spent eight years as the Learning Support Teacher, taught Social Studies, and founded Halton's Hockey Academy, which he continues to lead. Passionate about creating a positive, engaging school culture, he's active in the halls, classrooms, and intramural sports. He currently coaches cross country and has a history of coaching multiple school sports. Outside school, Bryan enjoys time with his wife and young daughter and occasionally hosts Trivia Nights.

Contact: burnsb@Lrsd.ab.ca

Thanks for listening to the show! It means so much to us that you listened to our podcast! If you would like to continue the conversation, please email me at allen@drallenlycka.com.

This show is built on “The Secrets to Living A Fantastic Life.” Get your copy by visiting: https://secretsbook.now.site/home

Dr. Allen Lycka’s Social Media Links

• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/drallenlycka
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• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allenlycka/

We would be honored to have you subscribe to the show, just use the podcast app on your mobile device or visit webtalkradio.com.

✅ This Podcast is not only available at Webtalkradio.com but all the major social podcast platforms. Additionally, you can watch it on AppleTV, Roku and Amazon Firestick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors app or visit www.expertsandauthors.tv and click “The Elite Educator”

Leave a review: We appreciate your feedback, as every little bit helps us produce even better shows. We want to bring value to your day, and have you join us time and again. Ratings and reviews from our listeners not only help us improve, but also help others find us in their podcast app. If you have a minute, an honest review on iTunes or your favorite app goes a long way! Thank you!

Discover how fun, collaboration, and high expectations can coexist in the modern classroom—and why every child deserves a champion. Dr. Lycka sits down with veteran educator and Principal of County Central High School, Philip Knafla, to explore the power of relationships, resilience, and relevance in education.

They discuss how creating a student-centered culture, launching programs like automotive tech and rock band, and leading with both transparency and empathy can redefine what school feels like—especially in rural settings. Philip also reveals how a “short memory” and a love for both math and drama have helped him teach with joy and lead with grace.

Guest Bio: Philip Knafla has been teaching for 25 years in a variety of settings - from larger public schools to smaller alternative programs - and has had the opportunity to work with students from K-12. Currently the Principal at County Central High School in Vulcan, Alberta, Philip is a student-oriented leader who is passionate about taking care of the people in the building, creating unique opportunities for students, and striving for fun, collaborative, hard-working days.

Social Media:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-knafla-2209

Thanks for listening to the show! It means so much to us that you listened to our podcast! If you would like to continue the conversation, please email me at allen@drallenlycka.com.

This show is built on “The Secrets to Living A Fantastic Life.” Get your copy by visiting: https://secretsbook.now.site/home

Dr. Allen Lycka’s Social Media Links

• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/drallenlycka
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_allen_lycka/
• X: https://X.com/drallenlycka
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• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allenlycka/

We would be honored to have you subscribe to the show, just use the podcast app on your mobile device or visit webtalkradio.com.

✅ This Podcast is not only available at Webtalkradio.com but all the major social podcast platforms. Additionally, you can watch it on AppleTV, Roku and Amazon Firestick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors app or visit www.expertsandauthors.tv and click “The Elite Educator”

Leave a review: We appreciate your feedback, as every little bit helps us produce even better shows. We want to bring value to your day, and have you join us time and again. Ratings and reviews from our listeners not only help us improve, but also help others find us in their podcast app. If you have a minute, an honest review on iTunes or your favorite app goes a long way! Thank you!

In this episode of The Elite Educator, Dr. Jamie Valenzuela-Mumau shares his inspiring journey from driving a middle school bus to leading innovative education reform. With over 30 years of experience, he now heads Coherent Educational Solutions and the My Future Capacity platform—tools that help students align their strengths and interests with meaningful career paths. Hear how student voice, culturally responsive teaching, and AI-powered tools are reshaping education and empowering learners at every level.

Guest Bio: Dr. Jamie Valenzuela-Mumau is an education leader and equity advocate helping schools implement best practices that support lifelong learning and student success.

Social Media:

• Website: https://www.coherented.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjamievm/
• E-mail: Jamie@coherented.com

Thanks for listening to the show! It means so much to us that you listened to our podcast! If you would like to continue the conversation, please email me at allen@drallenlycka.com.

This show is built on “The Secrets to Living A Fantastic Life.” Get your copy by visiting: https://secretsbook.now.site/home

Dr. Allen Lycka’s Social Media Links

• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/drallenlycka
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_allen_lycka/
• X: https://X.com/drallenlycka
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• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allenlycka/

We would be honored to have you subscribe to the show, just use the podcast app on your mobile device or visit webtalkradio.com.

✅ This Podcast is not only available at Webtalkradio.com but all the major social podcast platforms. Additionally, you can watch it on AppleTV, Roku and Amazon Firestick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors app or visit www.expertsandauthors.tv and click “The Elite Educator”

Leave a review: We appreciate your feedback, as every little bit helps us produce even better shows. We want to bring value to your day, and have you join us time and again. Ratings and reviews from our listeners not only help us improve, but also help others find us in their podcast app. If you have a minute, an honest review on iTunes or your favorite app goes a long way! Thank you!

In this encore episode of The Elite Educator, we revisit one of our most compelling conversations with veteran English teacher Jennifer Turner—a force in the classroom and a fearless advocate for authentic learning. With over two decades of experience at Port Credit Secondary School, her own alma mater, Jennifer brings unapologetic passion, wit, and wisdom to the mic.

As Head of the Languages Department, Jennifer unpacks how she makes Shakespeare feel real, why she welcomes tough conversations in literature, and how she’s navigating the rise of AI in education without losing sight of critical thinking and creativity. Whether she’s directing classroom dramatics or mentoring seniors through their final year, Jennifer proves that teaching with heart is anything but old-fashioned.

Guest Bio: Jennifer Turner began her career in Brampton, Ontario, and for the past 20 years has taught at Port Credit Secondary School in Mississauga, where she leads the Languages Department. Passionate about Shakespeare (especially King Lear), she weaves drama into her teaching to help students connect deeply with texts. When she’s not in the classroom, you’ll find her at the cottage with her family—reading, walking, swimming, and soaking up nature.

🎧 Tune in and get re-inspired by this timeless episode.
📚 Because great teaching never goes out of style.

Thanks for listening to the show! It means so much to us that you listened to our podcast! If you would like to continue the conversation, please email me at allen@drallenlycka.com.

This show is built on “The Secrets to Living A Fantastic Life.” Get your copy by visiting: https://secretsbook.now.site/home

Dr. Allen Lycka’s Social Media Links

• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/drallenlycka
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_allen_lycka/
• X: https://X.com/drallenlycka
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrAllenLycka/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allenlycka/

We would be honored to have you subscribe to the show, just use the podcast app on your mobile device or visit webtalkradio.com.

✅ This Podcast is not only available at Webtalkradio.com but all the major social podcast platforms. Additionally, you can watch it on AppleTV, Roku and Amazon Firestick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors app or visit www.expertsandauthors.tv and click “The Elite Educator”

Leave a review: We appreciate your feedback, as every little bit helps us produce even better shows. We want to bring value to your day, and have you join us time and again. Ratings and reviews from our listeners not only help us improve, but also help others find us in their podcast app. If you have a minute, an honest review on iTunes or your favorite app goes a long way! Thank you!

In this powerful encore conversation, Stacy Hovey returns to share her people-first approach to educational leadership. With honesty and heart, she joins Dr. Lycka to unpack the real issues facing today’s educators—from burnout and overwhelming class sizes to the often-overlooked impact of being truly heard. Full of wisdom, authenticity, and actionable insight, this episode offers a renewed sense of hope and purpose for anyone committed to transforming education from the inside out.

Guest Bio: Stacy Hovey is a Vice-Principal at Holy Trinity Catholic High School and a recipient of the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers from the Governor General of Canada. With a career spanning teaching, curriculum development, and university instruction, she is dedicated to fostering student growth and creating a supportive environment for both students and staff. Stacy believes that by taking excellent care of educators, schools can better nurture students into the best versions of themselves.

Social Media:

X: @sthovey

Thanks for listening to the show! It means so much to us that you listened to our podcast! If you would like to continue the conversation, please email me at allen@drallenlycka.com.

This show is built on “The Secrets to Living A Fantastic Life.” Get your copy by visiting: https://secretsbook.now.site/home

Dr. Allen Lycka’s Social Media Links

• Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/drallenlycka
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr_allen_lycka/
• X: https://X.com/drallenlycka
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DrAllenLycka/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allenlycka/

We would be honored to have you subscribe to the show, just use the podcast app on your mobile device or visit webtalkradio.com.

✅ This Podcast is not only available at Webtalkradio.com but all the major social podcast platforms. Additionally, you can watch it on AppleTV, Roku and Amazon Firestick streaming devices. Download the Experts and Authors app or visit www.expertsandauthors.tv and click “The Elite Educator”

Leave a review: We appreciate your feedback, as every little bit helps us produce even better shows. We want to bring value to your day, and have you join us time and again. Ratings and reviews from our listeners not only help us improve, but also help others find us in their podcast app. If you have a minute, an honest review on iTunes or your favorite app goes a long way! Thank you!