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!

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. Under his leadership, the school has earned both Missouri Gold Star and National Blue Ribbon honors. A passionate mentor to new administrators, Dr. Kelly is committed to developing teachers and cultivating an environment where every student can thrive.

Social Media:

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!

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 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/

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 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 of building meaningful relationships with students. Her unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of kindness and belonging shines throughout this memorable conversation.

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

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 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

• 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!

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
• 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.

• 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
• ExpertsAndAuthors.tv - https://expertsandauthors.tv/show-category-videos/?category_id=9ffa9ef6-da53-4481-86a3-b24f4ee60260
• 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
• 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!

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!