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 for connection. He also shares how launching a Hockey Academy helped re-engage students and build pride in the school. It’s a refreshing reminder that showing up, being real, and believing in every student can transform a school—sailor’s hat optional.

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!

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 advocate helping schools implement best practices that support lifelong learning and student success.

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!