In this encore episode, 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

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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 revisiting a listener favorite in this encore presentation of The Elite Educator. In this inspiring first episode, 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

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

Subscribe to the show

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• Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-elite-educator-podcast/id1807369099
• WebTalkRadio.net - https://webtalkradio.net/internet-talk-radio/category/podcasts/education-and-family/elite-educator-podcast/For
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• On AppleTV ROKU & Amazon Firestick devices, download the free Experts and Authors App and search for 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 heartfelt and humorous episode of The Elite Educator, Dr. Al welcomes Bryan Burns, principal of Matthew Halton High School in Pincher Creek, Alberta—a town that holds deep roots for both of them. From humble beginnings in Ontario to becoming a cornerstone of his Southern Alberta school community, Bryan shares the twists, turns, and sock patterns that shaped his journey.

They discuss the importance of school culture, community connection, and the powerful impact of small, intentional actions—from intramurals to hallway chats, quirky socks to hat day. Bryan also shares how launching the school’s first Hockey Academy helped bring out the best in his students, turning attendance issues into opportunities. This episode is a celebration of leadership through authenticity, how every student has something to offer, and the power of showing up—whether you're wearing a sailor's hat or coaching the fourth line.

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
• 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!

Dr. Jamie Valenzuela-Mumau joins us to share his transformative journey from middle school bus driver to educational leader and innovator. With over 30 years in education, Dr. Valenzuela-Mumau now leads Coherent Educational Solutions and the My Future Capacity platform—tools designed to help students discover careers aligned with their strengths, interests, and identities. Learn how culturally responsive teaching, student voice, and AI-powered tools are reshaping the future of education, one empowered learner at a time.

Guest Bio: Dr. Jamie Valenzuela-Mumau is on a journey to transform your classroom and empower every student! With over 30 years of experience and a deep commitment to educational equity, he partners with educators to implement best practices that empower students to become lifelong learners. Jamie's educational leadership expertise and proven track record in providing effective solutions make him a sought-after consultant and partner.

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
• 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!

Jennifer Turner has spent over two decades shaping young minds at her alma mater, Port Credit Secondary School. As Head of the Languages Department, Jennifer shares her powerful insights on making Shakespeare relatable, navigating the rise of AI in education, and encouraging students to think critically and authentically. From classroom theatrics to tough conversations on literature, Jennifer offers a passionate, no-nonsense take on what it truly means to teach with heart in today’s world.

Guest Bio: Jennifer Turner is a veteran secondary school English teacher. While she began her career in Brampton, Ontario, she has spent the past twenty years at her own Alma mater, Port Credit Secondary School in Mississauga Ontario, and has been the head of the Languages department there for over 12 years. Although she has taught all grades, she mostly specializes in teaching grade 12 students. She loves to teach Shakespeare, (King Lear is her favourite play) and often incorporates her love for drama when doing so. Outside of school, she loves travelling or spending time at her cottage with her family and this usually means going for long walks, swimming, and reading a good book on the dock.

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!

Stacy Hovey brings heart, purpose, and people-first leadership to the frontlines of education. In this episode, she joins Dr. Lycka to explore the real challenges educators face today—burnout, growing class sizes, and the power of truly listening. Packed with insight and authenticity, this conversation offers a fresh, hopeful perspective and practical tools for anyone passionate about 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!

Join Dr’s Allen Lycka and David Kelly, principal of Nixa High School, for a look at Davids 20-year journey in secondary education, insights on building strong school culture, achieving excellence and preparing students for real-world success. A must-listen for educators and change-makers.

Guest Bio: Dr. David Kelly has spent 20 years in secondary education, currently serving as Principal of Nixa High School in Missouri. Under his leadership, the school earned a Missouri Gold Star and National Blue Ribbon distinction. A dedicated mentor to new administrators, he is passionate about developing teachers and fostering a school climate where students maximize their potential.

Social Media:

• X: X - @David_Kelly10
• Website: www.Nixapublicschools.net

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!