In this episode of Educators of Today, host Ziyaan Virji speaks with Luc Renaud, Principal of École Catholique Secondaire Père-René-de-Galinée in Cambridge, Ontario. Luc shares his journey from growing up in a supportive family to becoming an influential leader in education, known for his servant leadership and passion for strength-based education. Luc discusses how he uses connection and purpose to empower students and educators alike. From his viral moment playing hallway volleyball with a student to leading international missions to Guatemala, Peru, and Nicaragua, Luc’s approach highlights the importance of building relationships, fostering inclusivity, and inspiring action. This episode explores the evolving role of education, the challenges of today’s world, and the hope and optimism Luc brings to his leadership. His insights offer valuable lessons for educators, leaders, and anyone invested in creating meaningful change. Tune in now to hear Luc’s inspiring story and learn how he’s shaping the future of education, one student at a time. Read more about Luc here: ----- Educators of Today with Ziyaan Virji is a podcast that dives into the stories of principals, superintendents, and educators shaping the future of learning. Each episode explores the challenges and innovations in education, from mental health and student agency to leadership and school culture. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or advocate for education, this podcast offers actionable insights and inspiration to create lasting impact. Hosted by Ziyaan Virji, a 23-year-old award-winning keynote speaker and changemaker, the show combines his global perspective with the expertise of leading educators. Ziyaan has delivered 200+ talks in 7 countries, including TEDx, the United Nations, and the Global Education and Skills Forum, inspiring over half a million people worldwide. Subscribe for weekly episodes and visit https://www.ziyaanvirji.com/ to book Ziyaan for speaking engagements that inspire schools to foster student leadership, mental health, and impactful education.

In this episode of Educators of Today, Ziyaan sits down with Josh Windsor, Principal at Eastwood Collegiate in Kitchener, Ontario. With nearly 25 years of experience in education—and a fascinating journey from marketing to coaching to leadership—Josh shares how his personal struggles and professional experiences have shaped his mission to transform education. Discover: - How Josh’s challenging upbringing taught him resilience and compassion. - The life-changing advice from a teacher and coach that sparked his journey into education. - Why coaching plays a central role in his approach to teaching and leadership. - His take on the evolving role of technology in learning and its impact on student well-being. - Powerful advice for new educators entering the field. Josh’s story is one of grit, growth, and a deep belief in the power of mentorship. Don’t miss this episode filled with insights that will leave you inspired to rethink what’s possible in education. -------- Educators of Today with Ziyaan Virji is a podcast that dives into the stories of principals, superintendents, and educators shaping the future of learning. Each episode explores the challenges and innovations in education, from mental health and student agency to leadership and school culture. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or advocate for education, this podcast offers actionable insights and inspiration to create lasting impact. Hosted by Ziyaan Virji, a 23-year-old award-winning keynote speaker and changemaker, the show combines his global perspective with the expertise of leading educators. Ziyaan has delivered 200+ talks in 7 countries, including TEDx, the United Nations, and the Global Education and Skills Forum, inspiring over half a million people worldwide. Subscribe for weekly episodes and visit https://www.ziyaanvirji.com/ to book Ziyaan for speaking engagements that inspire schools to foster student leadership, mental health, and impactful education.

In this episode of Educators of Today, host Ziyaan Virji sits down with Michael Bowman, principal of Applewood Heights Secondary School in Mississauga, Ontario, to explore his transformative 30-year journey in education. Michael shares how his own challenging start as a student shaped his passion for teaching and leadership. He reflects on the profound influence of his high school teachers, his transition from aspiring lawyer to educator, and his mission to nurture the potential in every student—especially those who feel overlooked. The conversation dives into Michael’s leadership philosophy, from celebrating student character and contributions beyond academics to fostering connections that create a sense of belonging. Michael also shares powerful lessons on trust, servant leadership, and the art of meaningful conversations in today’s polarized world. Tune in to discover how Michael Bowman is redefining what it means to lead with compassion, build trust, and empower the next generation of changemakers.

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Educators of Today with Ziyaan Virji is a podcast that dives into the stories of principals, superintendents, and educators shaping the future of learning. Each episode explores the challenges and innovations in education, from mental health and student agency to leadership and school culture.

Whether you're an educator, administrator, or advocate for education, this podcast offers actionable insights and inspiration to create lasting impact.

Hosted by Ziyaan Virji, a 23-year-old award-winning keynote speaker and changemaker, the show combines his global perspective with the expertise of leading educators.

Ziyaan has delivered 200+ talks in 7 countries, including TEDx, the United Nations, and the Global Education and Skills Forum, inspiring over half a million people worldwide.

Subscribe for weekly episodes and visit https://www.ziyaanvirji.com/ to book Ziyaan for speaking engagements that inspire schools to foster student leadership, mental health, and impactful education.