13 MAY. 2024 · Educational Leadership in the Far North: A Conversation with Superintendent Devin Roberts This episode features an in-depth conversation with Devin Roberts, Superintendent of the Beaufort Delta Divisional Education Council in the Northwest Territories, Canada. The discussion covers the integration of land and indigenous learning into the curriculum, the importance of inquiry-based learning, and Devin's personal journey from Nova Scotia to becoming an educator in the Arctic. Also highlighted are the unique challenges and opportunities of teaching in the North, such as climate change and fostering a deep connection with the land and culture. Devin shares insights into the significance of community and elder involvement in education, the transformative power of inquiry-based learning, and the importance of leadership in embracing change and fostering collaboration. 00:00 Exploring Indigenous Education in the North 01:00 A Personal Journey into Northern Education 02:43 The Path to Becoming a Superintendent in Inuvik 08:25 Life and Education in the Beaufort Delta Region 09:13 The Power of Community and Overcoming Misconceptions 10:53 Fostering a Connection to the Land Through Education 16:14 Addressing Climate Change Through Local Perspectives 18:42 Embracing Inquiry-Based Learning Across the District 27:18 The Challenges and Rewards of Leadership in Education 29:39 Embracing Inquiry in Education: Strategies and Impact 30:02 Engaging Resistors and Empowering Teachers 30:35 The Power of Inquiry-Based Learning and Community Engagement 33:01 Fostering a Culture of Curiosity and Openness in Leadership 34:40 Advice for Aspiring Educational Leaders 35:55 Promoting Psychological Safety and Encouraging Questions 38:46 The Joy of Education: Fostering Positivity and Collaboration 42:47 Personal Insights: Gratitude, Reading Habits, and Escapism

6 MAY. 2024 · Transforming Education: Steve Brown's Leadership Journey This conversation delves into Steve Brown's transformative leadership across different industries and his significant impact on education through his work at Nelson Education. Beginning his career managing a golf club, Steve's journey took him through various sectors, including the automotive and media industries, before finding a passion for education. He shares insights on leadership principles applicable across professions and discusses the digital shift in education with Nelson's development of Edwin, a comprehensive educational platform. The conversation covers Steve's approach to leadership, the importance of adapting and embracing change, and how his strategies have fostered educational growth and innovation. Steve's reflections on leadership challenges and his advice for aspiring leaders underscore the importance of vision, perseverance, and the ability to navigate discomfort and uncertainty. The conversation also addresses the role of external perspectives in education, highlighting Steve's outsider view as a catalyst for change and improvement in the sector. 00:00 The Ripple Effect of Educational Success 01:04 Introducing Steve Brown: From Diverse Industries to Education Leadership 02:11 Steve Brown's Unique Career Journey and Insights into Leadership 06:39 Transforming Nelson Education: Embracing Digital Innovation 08:33 Leadership Across Industries: Skills That Transcend Boundaries 11:00 The Challenge of Change in Education: A CEO's Perspective 15:26 Building Bridges in Education: The Outsider's Advantage 18:12 The Continuous Evolution of Learning with Edwin 20:47 Embracing Outsider Perspectives for Educational Innovation 22:56 Listening, Learning, and Leading: Steve's Approach to Education 27:49 Revolutionizing Education with Edwin 28:45 The Impact of Edwin on Student Success 29:34 Falling in Love with Education 32:03 Leadership and Overcoming Challenges 39:00 Advice for Aspiring Leaders 42:10 Gratitude and Acknowledgments 44:21 Personal Insights and Recommendations 48:50 Discovering Toronto's Hidden Gems

29 ABR. 2024 · Insights Into School Boards and Education Leadership: A Conversation with Carolyn Broady This podcast episode features an enlightening conversation with Carolyn Brody, vice president of the Canadian School Board Association and the current chair of West Vancouver Schools. The discussion opens with the importance of curiosity, open-mindedness, and the unique role of school trustees and boards in the education system. Carolyn shares her journey to becoming a trustee, emphasizing the significance of understanding the community's needs and the responsibilities that come with the position. The conversation also delves into governance models, the challenges and shifts in education over the years, notably around digital citizenship and social media's impact. Additionally, Carolyn discusses the pursuit of equity and progress in education, including initiatives for indigenous education and supporting vulnerable students. The episode touches on the implications of eliminating school boards and the unique position of Manitoba in allowing school boards taxation rights. Carolyn reflects on leadership challenges, particularly during COVID-19, emphasizing the singular focus on student welfare. The podcast wraps up with personal insights, book recommendations, and hidden gems in Vancouver for visitors. Overall, it offers a comprehensive look into the complexities of educational governance and leadership from a seasoned trustee's perspective. 00:00 The Role and Challenges of School Trustees 00:52 The Impact of School Boards on Education Success 01:16 A Deep Dive with Carolyn Brody: Insights from a School Trustee Veteran 01:55 The Journey of a School Trustee: Carolyn Brody's Story 06:44 Governance and the Role of School Boards Across Canada 10:40 The Evolution of Education: Challenges and Achievements 14:15 Exploring the Future of Education and Leadership 23:09 Personal Reflections and Advice for Aspiring Trustees 28:53 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude in Education

22 ABR. 2024 · Celebrating 50 Episodes: A Journey Through Canadian Educational Leadership In the 50th episode of the Canadian Ed Leadership Podcast, the host celebrates the milestone by embarking on a virtual tour across Canada, highlighting the diversity and innovation in educational leadership across the provinces and territories. Starting from Prince Edward Island and moving westward to British Columbia, with a detour to the Northwest Territories, the episode showcases leaders who are addressing seminal issues, fostering team-building, navigating system disruptions, tackling recruitment and retention challenges, and promoting wellness in schools. The podcast aims to connect educational leaders across Canada, sharing insights on leadership, the integration of technology in education, and the importance of joy, love, and well-being in the educational environment. The episode encourages networking among educators and provides a platform for sharing innovative practices and solutions to common challenges faced by educational institutions. 00:00 Celebrating 50 Episodes: A Journey Through Canadian Education Leadership 02:33 Starting in the East: PEI's Leadership Insights 04:54 Navigating Change in Nova Scotia's Education System 07:54 Addressing Recruitment and Retention in New Brunswick 11:20 Exploring Quebec's Unique Educational Landscape 12:53 Innovative Leadership in Ontario's Education System 16:27 Embracing Joy and Love in Manitoba's Schools 20:13 Generative AI and Future Technologies in Saskatchewan 22:21 Wellness and Wellbeing: Alberta's Approach 25:37 Visionary Education in the Northwest Territories 29:13 British Columbia: Collaboration and Leadership Fun 34:25 Wrapping Up: Reflections and Connections

15 ABR. 2024 · Transforming Education: The Success Story of New Frontier School Board This podcast features a conversation with Mike Helm, Director General of the New Frontier School Board in Quebec, highlighting innovative approaches to education and student support post-graduation. With a focus on adult vocational education, the board operates under a philosophy of lifelong learning, serving a diverse student population up to age 70. Through personalized learning experiences and a strong emphasis on vocational training and re-engagement strategies, the board successfully addresses absenteeism and prepares students for the workforce, resulting in impressive job placement rates. The discussion also touches on leadership in education, the importance of coaching and mentoring, and the integration of indigenous perspectives and histories into the learning experience. 00:00 Transforming Lives Through Vocational Education 02:00 The Importance of Post-Graduation Support 02:25 A Deep Dive into New Frontier School Board's Unique Approach 03:53 Challenges and Opportunities of an English School Board in Quebec 06:29 Innovative Adult Vocational Education Programs 09:33 Success Stories and the Impact of Vocational Training 12:29 Addressing Absenteeism and Student Engagement 14:10 Beyond Graduation: Measuring Success in Education 20:01 Leadership Insights and Challenges 30:32 Personal Reflections and Recommendations 37:44 Exploring the New Frontiers Region: A Hidden Gem 39:52 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

8 ABR. 2024 · Transforming Education in Northern Alberta: A Conversation with Mike McMann This episode features a deep dive into the educational innovations and leadership of Mike McMann, Superintendent of Fort Vermilion School Division in Northern Alberta. McMann discusses how his division is revolutionizing education by creating career pathways for students from kindergarten through high school. This initiative aims to align education with real-world job opportunities, enabling students to gain post-secondary credits and job experience while still in school. The discussion also explores the unique challenges and advantages of living and educating in the North, underscoring the importance of community, family, and tailored education systems that respect local needs and potential. The conversation reflects on leadership challenges, the power of human connections, and the drive to provide meaningful opportunities for students to succeed in their careers and lives. 00:00 Unlocking Student Potential: A New Approach to Education 01:26 A Deep Dive into Career Pathways with Mike McMahon 03:54 Exploring the Unique Lifestyle and Values of Northern Alberta 04:46 Mike McMahon's Journey to Fort Vermilion and Insights on Northern Living 11:27 Revolutionizing Education: The Collegiate Model in Fort Vermilion 19:23 Building Strong Community and Industry Partnerships for Education 22:32 Wellness Initiatives and Their Impact on Education 24:34 The Power of Mental Health Support in the Workplace 25:56 Creating a Supportive Environment for Staff 27:04 The Importance of Therapy and Vulnerability 28:40 Community Support and Cultural Practices 29:54 Leadership Challenges and Personal Growth 35:04 Advice for Aspiring Leaders 38:37 Gratitude in Education and Personal Foundations 40:57 Exploring New Perspectives on Mental Health and Education 43:55 Personal Reflections and Closing Thoughts

1 ABR. 2024 · In this insightful conversation, the speaker engages with Steve Gallagher, the Regional Executive Director of Halifax Regional Centre for Education (HRCE), exploring the nuances of educational leadership and the journey from teaching to administration. Steve shares his views on the important qualities of a leader, emphasizing the crucial role of relationships and trust in both teaching and leadership. He reflects on his personal career trajectory, highlighting the rapid shifts in his roles within the education sector and discussing the changing landscape of education in Nova Scotia, including addressing teacher shortages, the impact of technology on learning, and the importance of strategizing for the region's growing student population. The dialogue also covers the reformation of professional development for educators and the evolving expectations on teachers' time and compensation. Through Steve's experiences and perspectives, insights are offered into the challenges and opportunities present in current educational leadership, underscoring the importance of adaptation, strategic planning, and the value of bringing communities together for the betterment of the educational system. 00:00 Reflecting on Teaching and Leadership 01:28 Introducing Steve Gallagher: A Journey in Education Leadership 04:24 The Path from Classroom to Leadership 13:28 Navigating Growth and Change in Nova Scotia's Education System 17:17 The Role of MLAs in Education and Parental Involvement 22:45 Pride in the Halifax Regional Centre for Education Team 24:58 Transforming Educational Leadership: A Journey of Change 26:48 Reimagining School Administration and Instructional Leadership 28:22 Fostering Instructional Leadership: The Impact of School Learning Communities 29:09 The Evolution of Instructional Leadership in Schools 31:50 Addressing the Teacher Shortage: Innovative Recruitment and Development Strategies 34:54 Redefining Professional Development and Compensation for Teachers 38:43 Exploring Leadership Challenges and Solutions in Education 41:10 Personal Reflections and Gratitude in Education 44:34 Engaging in Personal Interests: Reading, Podcasts, and Hidden Gems

24 MAR. 2024 · Generational Change in Indigenous Education: A Conversation with Brad Baker This detailed conversation with Brad Baker, a respected leader in supporting Indigenous learning in British Columbia, covers the journey of generational change in Canadian education regarding Indigenous perspectives and reconciliation. Baker reflects on the progress and challenges in incorporating Indigenous history and knowledge into the curriculum, the importance of equity in education, and the role of educators in understanding and teaching Indigenous worldviews. He shares personal experiences to highlight the shifts in societal attitudes and educational practices over the years, emphasizing the slow but necessary pace of change towards better representation and understanding of Indigenous cultures within the Canadian education system. The episode also briefly touches on Baker's background, his achievements, and his advice for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous educators to foster a more inclusive and equitable educational environment. 00:00 The Journey of Generational Change in Canadian Education 01:21 Introducing Brad Baker: A Beacon of Indigenous Learning 03:45 Golf as a Metaphor for Continuous Improvement 04:29 Brad Baker's Career Journey: From Classroom to Ministry 07:51 The Evolution of Indigenous Education in Canada 22:04 Challenges and Triumphs in Indigenous Leadership 38:26 Rapid Fire Round: Reading, Watching, and Hidden Gems

18 MAR. 2024 · This episode  features a detailed discussion on leadership in education, highlighting the complex balance between fulfilling legal obligations to staff and moral obligations to students. Ted Franson, a newly retired Superintendent and CEO formerly of Pembina Trails in Manitoba, shares his insights on the pressures and challenges of educational leadership through anecdotes from his career. Emphasizing the importance of support systems, resilience, and maintaining a student-focused approach, Ted also touches upon his own transition into retirement and the refreshing perspectives it offers. The conversation further explores mentorship, the value of self-awareness, and the critical role of supportive communities in fostering effective leadership. Ted's dedication to education and his reflections on a 40-year career offer invaluable lessons on leadership, community, and the enduring impact of passionate educators. 00:00 Navigating Leadership Challenges in Education 01:59 Reflections on Retirement and Leadership with Ted Franson 04:01 The Joy of Teaching and Memorable Moments 13:46 The Importance of Resilience and Support in Leadership 19:28 Fostering Leadership and Building a Supportive Community 23:19 Ted Franson's Personal Highlights and Influences 28:12 Embracing Retirement: Reading, Streaming, and Life in Morden, Manitoba

11 MAR. 2024 · Matt Henderson, Superintendent/CEO of Winnipeg School Division envisions people from all over the world coming to see how the best school divsion in the world operates. He knows he's not there yet, but that's his mission. Using words like "love", "joy" and "rigor" Matt talks about using these tenets to bring justice and opportunity for all students. This conversation is inspiring and thoughtful and worth your time. 01:32 The Journey of Matt Henderson 03:22 The Vision for Winnipeg School Division 06:52 The Importance of Love, Joy, and Rigor in Education 15:57 The Path to Leadership 20:31 The Challenges and Triumphs of Leadership 26:38 The Power of Reading and Thinking Together 29:14 The Importance of Balance and Connection 30:40 Advice for Aspiring Leaders 35:24 Gratitude and Acknowledgement 41:33 Personal Interests and Hobbies 44:40 Conclusion: The Future of Winnipeg School Division