In this episode, Dean chats with Paul McKenzie, a Superintendent from Powell River, BC. They explore how to harness the natural curiosity and energy in children, and discuss transformative ideas like the 'school within a school' concept. Paul shares stories about his impactful journey in education—from a high school English teacher to a superintendent. He talks about the influence of sports on his leadership and gives valuable advice to aspiring leaders. They also touch on the importance of patience, inclusivity, and listening in leadership roles. Enjoy their deep dive into educational innovation and leadership lessons.

00:00 Introduction: Harnessing Hope
01:15 Meeting Paul McKenzie
03:33 Paul McKenzie's Leadership Journey
04:28 The Role of Sports in Leadership
07:15 Innovative Educational Approaches
24:18 Challenges and Lessons in Leadership
29:01 Advice for Aspiring Leaders
34:10 Personal Reflections and Gratitude
41:52 Closing Remarks and Acknowledgements

 In today's episode, we're chatting with Sandra Herbst, the superintendent of River East Transcona School Division in Winnipeg, Manitoba. We cover a lot of ground—from the powerful role of love in public education, to the nuances of Manitoba's educational system, and some thought-provoking questions about the ownership of learning and assessment. Plus, Sandra shares personal insights about her journey and the things she's proud of in her current role. Don't miss this insightful conversation! 

00:00 The Heart of Teaching: Love in Public Education
00:44 Introducing Sandra Herbst: A Leader in Education
02:37 Mountains and Leadership: Navigating Challenges
05:59 The Role of Senior Leaders in Education
08:09 Personalization in Education: Meeting Learners' Needs
11:50 Building Relationships Through Leadership
20:02 The Manitoba Education Experience
25:20 Sandra Herbst's Journey: From Local Leader to National Influence
30:07 Practicing What You Preach: Engaging in the Field
30:33 The Role of Writing in Leadership
31:03 Reflective Writing and Staff Engagement
33:18 Visibility and Influence in Leadership
35:58 Professional Growth and Transparency
39:24 Influence and Leadership in Education
42:11 Pride in River East Transcona School Division
47:30 Gratitude and Personal Influences
49:41 Personal Interests and Recommendations
52:50 Conclusion and Future Conversations

In this episode, join me as I sit down with Dustin Swanson, the Superintendent of Prairie South in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. We dive into the importance of listening to diverse viewpoints, focusing on classroom support, and making tough budgetary decisions. Dustin also shares insights on professional development, the unique mix of rural and urban dynamics in Prairie South, and the evolution of community relationships. If you're curious about educational leadership, community building, and some inside tips on Moose Jaw's hidden gems, this episode is for you! 

00:00 Introduction and Importance of Opposing Viewpoints
00:22 Resource Allocation and Classroom Support
01:09 Interview with Dustin Swanson: Background and Connection
02:57 Pride in Prairie South School Division
05:36 Challenges and Evolution in Leadership
11:14 Balancing Priorities and Decision Making
19:05 Encouraging Future Leaders
27:11 Personal Reflections and Gratitude
30:49 Recommendations and Closing Remarks

Join us for a lighthearted and insightful conversation about leadership in education, using the popular TV show 'Ted Lasso' as a foundation. Hosts Ryan Kelley and Steven Perchard discuss how they drew inspiration from the show to build a positive leadership model within Newfoundland schools. Learn about the unique context and structure of the Newfoundland education system, the challenges they've faced, and their ongoing initiatives for fostering a culture of optimism and cooperation. Whether you're an educator, leader, or just a fan of 'Ted Lasso,' you'll find valuable takeaways from this engaging discussion.

00:00 Introduction to Ted Lasso and Leadership
00:38 Canadian Leadership Show: Achievements and Guests
01:02 Newfoundland School System Overview
02:32 Conversation with Steven and Ryan
04:06 History of Newfoundland Education
14:08 Ted Lasso's Influence on Leadership
18:17 Positive Leadership and Overcoming Challenges
30:30 Embracing Chaos in Education
31:33 Leadership Challenges in Education
32:18 Prioritizing Instructional Conversations
34:14 Curiosity Over Judgment
35:56 Pride in School Culture
39:31 Advice for Aspiring Leaders
43:52 Gratitude and Mentorship
47:37 Fun and Relaxation
51:01 Exploring Newfoundland
53:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

A Chat with Dr. Souhail Soujah Join us for a casual and insightful conversation with Dr. Souhail Soujah the superintendent of South Slave educational division in Fort Smith, Northwest Territories. We delve into his transition from big city life to a leadership role in northern Canada, his dedication to indigenous education, and the unique challenges of maintaining quality education in remote areas. Dr. Soujah shares stories of community, resilience, and the importance of local talent in shaping the future. Perfect for educators, leaders, and anyone interested in educational development in indigenous and northern communities.
00:00 Introduction to Community Connections
01:04 Interview with Dr. Souhail Soujah
02:29 Award Recognition and Reflections
05:14 Journey to the North
07:56 Challenges and Rewards of Northern Living
11:16 Leadership and Educational Success
16:29 Human Resources and Teacher Retention
22:36 Community Loyalty and Graduate Success
24:37 Student Concerns: Housing and Jobs
25:21 Building Infrastructure for Post-Secondary Education
25:39 AI and Indigenous Communities
26:51 Balancing Technology and Tradition
27:30 Challenges and Opportunities with AI
35:09 Leadership and Education
38:29 Gratitude and Acknowledgements
40:50 Personal Interests and Recommendations
43:49 Exploring South Slave: A Perfect Day
45:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Join us as we chat with Michael Furdyk, co-founder of TakingITGlobal, about leveraging technology to tackle social issues. Michael shares his journey from meeting tech giants like Bill Gates and Google founders to focusing on non-profits and educational initiatives. Learn about his first tech ventures, the impact of social innovation, and the importance of investing in youth to create future leaders. Don't miss his insights on attending global summits and using AI to drive positive change!

00:00 Meeting Tech Giants and Their Social Impact
01:23 Introducing Michael Furdyk: A Remarkable Journey
03:54 Global Conferences and Youth Representation
06:57 Canada's Role in Global Tech and Education
16:45 The Evolution of TakingITGlobal
20:48 Early Inspirations and Technological Beginnings
27:37 Challenges and Resilience in the Nonprofit Sector
30:11 Overcoming Rejection and Building Resilience
32:04 Highlight Reel: Key Moments in 25 Years
33:49 Empowering Youth Through Technology
38:06 Advice for Aspiring Young Leaders
39:31 The Importance of Conferences and Networking
41:03 Lowering Barriers to Entrepreneurship
43:51 Integrating Technology in Education
50:33 Gratitude and Influential Figures
52:34 Personal Interests and Recommendations
56:58 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode I talk with Noah Pearmain, a student at the School of Finance and Management in Frankfurt, as he shares his journey and unique perspective on using AI in education. Noah discusses how AI has transformed his study habits, helped him overcome challenges in subjects like math, and even assisted him in navigating life in a foreign country. He also explores the varying acceptance and integration of AI by different professors. This episode offers a deep dive into the practical applications of AI in a post-secondary context and provides valuable insights for educators and students alike. 00:00 Introduction to AI in Education 00:50 The Role of Student Voice in AI Adoption 01:38 Introducing Noah Pearmain 03:39 Noah's Early Encounters with AI 04:11 AI as a Learning Resource 07:54 AI in University Projects 12:56 AI's Impact on Personal and Academic Life 21:14 Navigating AI's Ethical and Social Implications 23:36 The Role of AI in Reducing Anxiety and Stress 24:16 Concerns About AI and Younger Generations 25:08 Biases and Guardrails in AI 26:35 AI in Education and Critical Thinking 29:53 Using AI to Enhance Personal Skills 32:03 Advice for High School Teachers on AI 36:54 Navigating AI in Post-Secondary Education 40:36 Quickfire Questions and Personal Insights

Join us for a discussion with Stacy Lair, Director of Northeast School Division and President of LEADS in Saskatchewan. Stacy shares her journey transitioning from an industrial arts teacher to a leadership role, her insights on authentic leadership, and the importance of staying curious. We also delve into how she balances professional and personal life, the unique structures and operations of educational organizations in Saskatchewan, and the need to slow down to allow thoughtful decision-making. Whether you're an educational leader or aspiring to be one, this episode is packed with valuable insights! 00:00 The Power of Listening in Leadership 01:07 Introducing Stacy Lair: A Unique Leadership Journey 02:44 Understanding LEADS and Its Role 08:00 Challenges and Strategies in Modern Educational Leadership 13:08 Balancing Authenticity and Leadership 18:37 From Industrial Arts to Educational Leadership 31:47 The Importance of Inclusive Decision-Making 32:44 Pride in the Northeast School Division 37:09 Leadership Challenges and Growth 40:18 Encouraging Future Leaders 44:41 Gratitude and Mentorship 48:33 Personal Interests and Recommendations 52:21 Exploring Melfort and Surrounding Areas 54:32 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In  this first episode of season 4 of The CanadianEd Leadership Show, we kick off  with Dr. Soroush Sabbaghan, Gen AI leader in residence at the University of Calgary. Dr. Sabbaghan discusses the role of ChatGPT in education, its benefits, and the necessary precautions. The conversation explores the implications of generative AI for both K-12 and higher education, touching on ethical concerns, appropriate usage, and long-term impact. We also delve into Dr. Sabaan's personal journey and experiences that led him to this unique role. Tune in for an insightful discussion on how generative AI can enhance learning and elevate education.

00:00 The Debate on Citing Chat GPT
00:47 Introduction to Dr. Sabbaghan
02:17 Dr. Sabbaghans Journey into Generative AI
03:23 Early Predictions and Realizations
05:25 The Impact and Concerns of Generative AI
07:17 Addressing Misuse and Academic Integrity
09:24 The Role of Self-Regulation in Education
17:18 The Importance of Relationships in Education
23:17 The Gen AI Expert in Residence Role
25:52 Generative AI in K-12 Education
28:11 AI-Powered Lesson Planners for K-12
29:41 Hyper-Personalized Educational Tools
30:48 Addressing Hallucinations in AI Models
32:51 Fears and Concerns About AI in Education
37:05 Using AI to Enhance Learning
38:23 Hopes for the Future of AI in Education
41:17 Personal Reflections and Gratitude
43:40 Professional Growth and Leisure Activities
47:40 Living in Calgary: Hidden Gems
48:43 Final Thoughts and Future Connections

In this episode, we sit down with Darren McKee, Executive Director of the Saskatchewan School Boards Association. We dive into Darren's personal journey, the state of Indigenous representation in government, and his work in Indigenous education. Darren shares his experiences growing up, the challenges he faced, and the milestones he achieved, like introducing teaching treaties in Saskatchewan classrooms. We also explore the role of technology in education, particularly its impact on Indigenous communities. Darren offers insights on AI's potential in the classroom and its broader societal implications. Join us for a rich conversation on leadership, education, and the future of learning in Saskatchewan and beyond.

00:00 Introduction and Initial Insights
01:25 Personal Journey and Indigenous Education
03:38 Conversation with Darren McKee
03:56 Darren's Career Path
06:22 Challenges in Leadership
13:36 Generational Improvements in Indigenous Education
27:34 The Role of Technology in Education
28:44 First Nations Technology Renaissance
29:20 Innovations in Connectivity
30:07 Challenges and Responsibilities of AI
31:33 Saskatchewan's Digital Future
33:22 AI in Education
39:49 Reflections on Indigenous Education
42:12 Personal Influences and Cultural Identity
46:25 Leisure and Local Recommendations
49:39 Final Thoughts and Appreciation

In this episode, the discussion focuses on the challenges of balancing the creation of wellbeing conditions with the core business of teaching literacy, numeracy, and overall learning. The importance of integrating both aspects is highlighted, rather than viewing them as mutually exclusive. The conversation features insights into effective leadership, particularly in educational settings, and emphasizes the significance of laughter, a playful spirit, and thoughtful interaction with teams. Camille Williams-Taylor, Director of Education at Durham District School Board in Ontario, shares her journey, including the challenges faced as a black woman in educational leadership. She discusses personal experiences from Manitoba to Ontario, time management strategies, and the integration of personal life with professional responsibilities. Camille's thoughtful approach to leadership, focus on student wellbeing, and emphasis on creating welcoming spaces are key takeaways from this engaging conversation.

00:00 Introduction and Competing Priorities in Education
01:38 Guest Introduction: Camille Williams Taylor
03:33 Balancing Leadership and Personal Life
04:54 Time Management Strategies
06:27 Modeling Work-Life Balance
09:16 Sketch Noting and Visual Learning
13:29 Journey from Manitoba to Ontario
18:09 Identity and Representation in Education
24:23 Influence and Impact of Educators
28:55 Modernizing School Spaces for Kids
30:55 The Role of Carpenters in Special Education
32:55 Leadership Challenges and Competing Priorities
34:03 Balancing Wellbeing and Education
37:24 Pathways to Leadership in Education
44:59 The Importance of Student Voice
46:36 Personal Recommendations and Reflections

In this episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Steve Boots, Saskatchewan's own internet social studies teacher. Steve shares how his most viewed video wasn’t about politics, but about the surprising connection between Boney M and Milli Vanilli. He discusses his transition from being a traditional classroom teacher to an online content creator, his viral moments, and his thoughts on the evolving landscape of education. Steve also opens up about the challenges of teaching during Covid, the joy and stress of the profession, and his inspiration from popular figures like John Stewart and Stephen Colbert. Whether you're an educator, a student, or just curious about the world of social media influencers, this conversation with Steve Boots is packed with insights, humor, and candid reflections. Enjoy!


00:00 Introduction and Most Viewed Video
01:14 Meet Steve Boots: Canada's Internet Social Studies Teacher
02:52 Steve's Journey into Content Creation
04:08 Balancing Teaching and Content Creation
06:46 Navigating Social Media as an Educator
25:15 The Impact of COVID on Teaching
30:11 Exploring Job Satisfaction and Compensation
31:02 Shared Responsibility in Education
33:10 Industrial vs. Cultivating Education Models
36:25 Personal Stories of Educational Leadership
40:41 Advice for Aspiring Teachers
45:57 Role Models and Community in Content Creation
51:32 Guilty Pleasures and Local Recommendations
55:35 Conclusion and Future Plans

Join us in this enlightening episode as we delve into the power of recognition and mentorship in education with Noa Daniel, a teacher at York Region School Board, Ontario. Noa discusses the importance of celebrating educators, fostering mentorship opportunities for pre-service and seasoned teachers, and her innovative 'Building Outside the Blocks' pedagogical approach. We also explore her extensive contributions as an author, podcaster, and advocate for educational growth. Noa's passion and commitment to supporting teachers and students alike shine through as she reflects on her journey and shares valuable insights.

00:00 Introduction to Recognition and Mentorship
00:42 Meet Noa Daniel: A Multifaceted Educator
03:06 Noah's Mentorship Journey
04:57 Building Outside the Blocks: A Unique Pedagogical Approach
07:04 Challenges and Successes in Mentorship
12:25 The Importance of Recognition in Education
17:28 Noa's Creative Ventures: Books and Podcasts
29:35 Advice for Aspiring Educators
31:01 Personal Growth and Guilty Pleasures
33:12 Final Thoughts and Local Recommendations

In this episode, Dean engages in a deep and thought-provoking conversation with Tania Sterling, a longtime public educator and advocate for Indigenous communities and cultures. They discuss Tania's journey from education into the corporate world and back, focusing on her passion for creating better learning opportunities for Indigenous students. Tania shares invaluable insights from her diverse experiences, emphasizing the importance of relationship-building, cultural sensitivity, and authentic leadership. The episode also touches on the complexities of public education, the challenges of effective community engagement, and the ongoing efforts to elevate Indigenous voices within educational frameworks. Don't miss this enlightening dialogue about leadership, education, and making a meaningful impact in communities.

00:00 The Importance of Authenticity in Meetings
01:48 Meeting Tania Sterling: A Journey Through Education
03:42 Passion for Indigenous Communities and Cultures
07:04 Challenges and Progress in Indigenous Education
19:46 Corporate and Public Education: A Balancing Act
33:51 Reflections on Leadership and Community Engagement
37:31 Gratitude and Personal Reflections
40:19 Woodbridge Gems and Final Thoughts

In this episode, we sit down with Todd Manuel, Superintendent of Schools of Okanagan Skaha in Penticton, British Columbia. Todd shares his unique insights into leading through the complex process of school closures, focusing on the importance of empathetic and transparent leadership. Reflecting on his career transition from a teacher in Coquitlam to his current role, Todd discusses how the district managed a significant reconfiguration due to declining enrollment. He emphasizes the essential role of community engagement, the support from the board, and the collaborative efforts of educators to navigate these changes. Additionally, Todd touches on the district's focus on indigenous education, professional learning, and fostering a resilient, welcoming school culture. This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in educational leadership and community building.

00:00 Introduction and Community Support
01:15 Meet Todd Manuel: A Leader in Education
03:03 Todd's Journey to Superintendent
03:44 The Penticton School District and Community
06:21 Embracing Indigenous Culture and Education
12:19 Leadership Challenges: School Closures
15:58 Supporting Teachers and Students Through Change
19:20 Building Trust and Vulnerability in Leadership
22:35 Encouraging Future Leaders
25:44 Personal Reflections and Recommendations
34:27 Conclusion and Gratitude

In this inspiring episode, we explore the impact of the Connected North program with co-founder Jennifer Corriero. Jennifer shares how Connected North delivers live, interactive virtual field trips to over 200 partner schools in Northern Remote, First Nations, Inuit, and Metis communities, significantly increasing student engagement and motivation. The discussion highlights powerful stories of individual impact, the importance of cultural inclusion in education, and the challenges of sustaining a nonprofit organization in the education sector. Jennifer also reflects on her journey as a social entrepreneur and provides valuable advice for emerging professionals. Discover how education can be a tool for healing and growth through innovative and inclusive approaches.

00:00 Introduction and the Importance of Education
01:26 Guest Introduction: Jennifer Corriero
03:23 Connected North and Taking It Global
04:23 Impact Stories and Program Success
08:46 Personal Reflections and Influences
13:45 Challenges and Opportunities in Education
14:35 Cultural Understanding and Community Impact
20:50 Highlights and Success Stories
25:42 The Unique Value of Virtual Field Trips
26:44 Leadership Challenges and Solutions
28:46 Fundraising and Resource Management
29:26 Handling Feedback and Maintaining Quality
31:55 Advice for Emerging Professionals
40:44 Balancing Work and Personal Life
43:25 Exploring Toronto's Hidden Gems
44:28 Final Thoughts and Achievements

In this  episode, we explore the novel approaches of West Vancouver and Ottawa Catholic School Boards in integrating generative AI into educational systems. Dean and the guests, Chris Kennedy (Superintendent, West Vancouver) and Tom D'Amico (Director of Education, Ottawa Catholic), discuss their AI journeys, collaborations, and the significant changes in teaching methodologies. They delve into the challenges and successes of AI-driven learning, share actionable insights and resources for educators, and emphasize the importance of balancing AI with traditional learning and physical literacy. Whether you're an educator, administrator, or AI enthusiast, this discussion offers valuable perspectives on the future of AI in education.

00:00 Introduction and Reflections on AI Implementation
01:10 Generative AI in Canadian School Boards
02:18 Insights from Tom D'Amico and Chris Kennedy
06:24 AI Tools and Certification Programs
08:24 Teacher and Student Use of AI Tools
18:08 Addressing Plagiarism and AI Literacy
23:17 Success Stories and Impact of AI in Education
26:36 AI in Education: Overcoming Language Barriers
27:13 Feedback on AI Translation Tools
28:30 Indigenous Perspectives on AI
30:26 Future Directions for AI in Education
33:48 Balancing AI and Physical Literacy
40:39 Reflections and Lessons Learned
43:06 Networking and Resources for AI in Education

In this episode, we sit down with Mistene Clapp, a dedicated educator and vice principal at Limestone District School Board, to discuss her journey in education. Mistene shares stories about her early experiences as a classroom teacher, the importance of valuing all staff members, and her strategies for building a compassionate and inclusive school community. She emphasizes the significance of using AI tools in education and explains the process of transitioning from a teacher to a principal. Tune in to hear Mistene's insights on leadership, relationship-building, and the evolving role of technology in the classroom.

00:00 Building a Respectful School Culture
01:39 Early Career and Technology Adoption
03:34 Path to Leadership in Limestone School Board
06:27 Roles and Responsibilities of a Vice Principal
12:06 Memorable Moments as a Classroom Teacher
17:37 The Importance of Building Relationships
22:25 Fostering Kindness and Inclusivity
25:28 Introduction to AI in Education
25:42 Personal Journey with AI
25:51 Daily Uses of AI
26:45 AI in Education
28:34 Addressing Resistance to AI
31:02 Concerns About AI
33:05 Leadership Challenges
36:08 System Perspective in Education
39:41 Mentorship and Gratitude
41:36 Fun and Guilty Pleasures
46:03 Local Recommendations

In this engaging episode, we explore the inception and development of a podcast initiative for the Surrey school district. Sundeep, a principal, shares her vision of using podcasts for professional learning and how it became a reality through collaboration with Linda Reeve and Kristi. They discuss the logistics, challenges, and joys of creating educational content for busy educators. Along the way, Sundeep and Kristi reflect on their personal leadership journeys and the importance of mentorship in their careers. They also highlight their favorite podcasts, influential leaders, and the future goals for their own podcast. Tune in for insights on leadership, education, and the power of audio as a learning tool.

00:00 Introduction and Busy Life of a Principal
00:31 The Birth of the Podcast Idea
00:56 Christie's Involvement and Initial Reactions
04:10 Reflecting on the Origin Stories
04:26 The First Ignite Talk and Its Impact
05:15 The Journey of Podcasting Together
08:50 Challenges and Learning in Podcast Production
16:57 Professional Learning and Leadership Development
22:07 Podcasting Influences and Inspirations
27:11 The Unusual Task of Guest Booking
27:51 Highlighting Memorable Guests
28:35 The Impactful Interview with Chief Robert Joseph
30:35 The Personal Joy of Podcasting
32:02 Encouraging Leadership in Education
33:21 Advice for Aspiring Principals
40:37 Gratitude in Education
43:53 Personal Recommendations and Closing Thoughts

In this episode, we delve into the inspiring career of Tyrone Dowling, the Director of Education for the Waterloo Catholic School Board in Ontario. Dowling shares his experiences and challenges as one of the few Black educational leaders in the region. He emphasizes the importance of representation in education and discusses his efforts to increase diversity among teachers. The conversation covers his unexpected path into education, insights on leadership, and the future of teaching amidst technological advancements such as AI. Dowling also touches on his upcoming retirement and his passion for golf. Join us for an in-depth discussion on educational leadership, diversity, and the enduring impact of a dedicated educator.

00:00 Inspiring the Next Generation
01:18 Introducing Today's Guest: Tyrone Dowling
03:45 Tyrone's Journey to Retirement
06:26 Reflecting on Leadership and Future Plans
17:01 The Evolution of Black Educators in Ontario
26:12 Inspiring the Next Generation of Educators
26:52 Proud Moments and Achievements in the District
27:43 Innovative Initiatives and Programs
33:03 Challenges and Leadership Lessons
39:06 Empowering Teachers and Staff
41:02 Advice for Aspiring Leaders
44:06 Gratitude and Reflections
47:33 Personal Interests and Future Plans
53:40 Final Thoughts and Farewell