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!

Tune in to meet Martina Fazzano, principal of St. Elizabeth Catholic High School, whose journey from the music industry to education leadership bridges real-world learning with student empowerment. In this edition of The Elite Educator, Martina shares how she champions student voice, modernizes curriculum, and brings Indigenous history into the classroom—while keeping learning meaningful, memorable, and fun.

Guest Bio: Martina Fasano has been an educator since 2003, serving as a teacher, department head, vice-principal, and now principal of St. Elizabeth. Passionate about student engagement and curriculum development, she has contributed to various educational committees, including those focused on Indigenous history, student leadership, and digital learning tools. Beyond education, her experience in the music industry has helped her bridge classroom learning with real-world opportunities.IO:

Social Media:

• @msmartinafasano
• @saintelizabethchs
• https://seh.ycdsb.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
• 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/

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!

Today’s conversation will inspire you to think bigger, lead with heart, and create a school culture where everyone thrives! As the Superintendent of the Battle River School Division Rhae-Ann Holoien has over 30 years experience in education. Tune in to hear her incredible journey—from growing up in a family of educators to becoming a leader driving meaningful change in her division.

You’ll hear firsthand how she champions inclusive learning environments, prioritizes student well-being, and builds authentic relationships that make a real impact in schools. If you’re an educator, leader, or simply someone passionate about shaping the future of education, you’ll walk away with valuable insights into innovative programs, practical leadership strategies, and ways you can support both students and staff in reaching their full potential.

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
• 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/

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!