What happens when fun, collaboration, and high expectations all thrive in the same classroom? In this inspiring episode, Dr. Lycka sits down with veteran educator and Principal of County Central High School, Philip Knafla, to explore how every child can be seen, supported, and championed.

Together, they dive into the power of relationships, resilience, and relevance — the pillars that transform schools into places where students truly want to learn. From launching innovative programs like automotive tech and rock band, to fostering a culture of empathy and transparency, Philip shares how he’s redefining what school can feel like — especially in rural communities.

With over 25 years of experience across diverse educational settings, Philip brings humor, heart, and wisdom to the conversation. He reflects on why maintaining a “short memory”, balancing math and drama, and leading with joy and grace have been keys to his success both in the classroom and beyond.

Guest Bio: Philip Knafla has spent 25 years teaching across K–12 in both large public schools and small alternative programs. Now the Principal of County Central High School in Vulcan, Alberta, he’s a passionate, student-centered leader dedicated to creating opportunities that inspire curiosity, collaboration, and hard work — all while keeping learning fun.

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!

From middle school bus driver to educational leader, Dr. Jamie Valenzuela-Mumau shares how culturally responsive teaching, student voice, and AI-powered tools can reshape learning. Now leading Coherent Educational Solutions and the My Future Capacity platform, he’s helping students discover careers aligned with their strengths and passions—one empowered learner at a time.

Guest Bio - With over 30 years in education, Dr. Jamie Valenzuela-Mumau is a leader in equity-driven practices and innovative solutions. As founder of Coherent Educational Solutions, he partners with schools to empower lifelong learners through best practices, leadership, and technology.

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!

Veteran English teacher and Head of Languages at Port Credit Secondary School, Jennifer Turner, joins us to share how she makes Shakespeare come alive, guides students through the challenges of AI in education, and fosters authentic critical thinking. With over 20 years in the classroom, Jennifer offers a passionate, practical perspective on teaching with heart in today’s world.

Guest Bio - Jennifer Turner has taught English for more than two decades at her alma mater, Port Credit Secondary School, where she has led the Languages Department for 12 years. Specializing in senior English, she brings Shakespeare to life—King Lear being her favorite—through drama and creativity. Outside the classroom, Jennifer enjoys traveling, relaxing at her family cottage, swimming, long walks, and reading by the water.

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!