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011: (Encore) A Journey of Passion and Learning with Paul Turner

The Elite Educator Podcast

Release Date: 06/10/2025

021: (Encore) A Journey of Passion and Learning with Paul Turner show art 021: (Encore) A Journey of Passion and Learning with Paul Turner

The Elite Educator Podcast

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...

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020: (Encore) Leadership, Laughter and Crazy Socks with Bryan Burns show art 020: (Encore) Leadership, Laughter and Crazy Socks with Bryan Burns

The Elite Educator Podcast

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...

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019: (Encore) Building School Culture, One Relationship at a Time with Philip Knafla show art 019: (Encore) Building School Culture, One Relationship at a Time with Philip Knafla

The Elite Educator Podcast

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...

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018: (Encore) Empowering Learners: From Bus Driver to Visionary Educator with Dr. Jamie Valenzuela-Mumau show art 018: (Encore) Empowering Learners: From Bus Driver to Visionary Educator with Dr. Jamie Valenzuela-Mumau

The Elite Educator Podcast

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...

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017: (Encore) Teaching with Heart: Jennifer Turner on Shakespeare, AI, and Empowering Young Minds show art 017: (Encore) Teaching with Heart: Jennifer Turner on Shakespeare, AI, and Empowering Young Minds

The Elite Educator Podcast

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...

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016: Leading with Heart, Listening with Purpose with Stacy Hovey show art 016: Leading with Heart, Listening with Purpose with Stacy Hovey

The Elite Educator Podcast

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...

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015: (Encore) From Good to Great, Building School Culture with Dr. David Kelly show art 015: (Encore) From Good to Great, Building School Culture with Dr. David Kelly

The Elite Educator Podcast

Join Dr. Allen Lycka and Dr. David Kelly, Principal of Nixa High School, for this insightful encore conversation exploring Dr. Kelly’s 20-year journey in secondary education. Discover his proven strategies for building a strong school culture, mentoring educators, and preparing students for success beyond the classroom. This episode is a must-listen for educators, leaders, and anyone committed to making a lasting impact on the next generation.   Guest Bio: Dr. David Kelly has dedicated two decades to secondary education and currently serves as Principal of Nixa High School in Missouri....

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014: (Encore) From Rock Bands to the Principal’s Office with Martina Fazzano show art 014: (Encore) From Rock Bands to the Principal’s Office with Martina Fazzano

The Elite Educator Podcast

We’re excited to bring back Martina Fazzano, principal of St. Elizabeth Catholic High School. In this encore presentation, you’ll hear about Martina’s inspiring journey from the music industry to educational leadership. It’s amazing how real-world experience can empower students and enrich learning. Listen as she shares her commitment to championing student voice, modernizing the curriculum, and integrating Indigenous history into the classroom—all while ensuring that learning remains meaningful, memorable, and fun.   Guest Bio:  Martina Fasano has been an educator since...

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013: (Encore) Leading with Heart: Laura Beltran’s Journey in Education show art 013: (Encore) Leading with Heart: Laura Beltran’s Journey in Education

The Elite Educator Podcast

Join us for an encore presentation of one of our most inspiring episodes! Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Laura Beltran, Principal of St. Joseph's Catholic High School in Windsor, Ontario. With over 31 years of experience, Laura shares her remarkable journey from aspiring pediatrician to passionate educator. Discover her insights on equity, inclusion, and student well-being, and learn about her leadership in innovative programs such as Hockey for Youth and the Benevolence Café. Laura also reflects on the transformative impact of international service trips, experiential learning, and the importance...

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012: (Encore) Empowering Futures Through Education with Rhae-Ann Holoien show art 012: (Encore) Empowering Futures Through Education with Rhae-Ann Holoien

The Elite Educator Podcast

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...

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More Episodes

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: [email protected]

 

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