The Podclass

In this episode, we explore how educators, students, and leaders can contribute to the collective well-being of their broader communities. Joining us are Eric Decorby and Rob McDougall, co-leaders of November Project Canada, to share how accessible, community-based movement can transform relationships and social connection. Together, we unpack the magic of intergenerational connections, the dynami...

What if, instead of rush-hour traffic, your day started with fresh air, laughter, and a genuine sense of connection? In this episode, we explore how reimagining our commutes and embracing active transportation can impact personal and collective well-being. Joining us are Jenn Mireau, our Ever Active active travel specialist, and Kellen Westman, president and founder of the Bike Bus Alberta Society...

Start the year off right by learning how to help your students develop positive social connections in your class. Dr. Liz Baker and Dr. Deinera Exner-Cortens are researchers from the University of Calgary and PREVNet and have studied extensively how teachers can help prevent bullying and teen dating violence. They discuss both the fundamental reasons behind social aggression amongst peers as well...

In need of a little infusion of hope? Dr. Kate Storey shares her work on LINKing together people and organizations to support healthy school communities across Canada. This conversation dives into how we can work together to enact Canada’s National Healthy School Standards and how we can empower teachers to use these national standards to advocate for “higher-level support,” meaning time, resource...

In recent years, youth physical activity levels have seen a decline. For girls, the numbers are particularly jarring, with only 8% meeting daily requirements for physical activity. Armed with the latest data from the Canadian Health Measures Survey, we are diving deep into the barriers women and girls face in sport. Joining us are Lindsay Wright and Tara Chisholm from the InMotion Network, who are...

Dr Kelly-Ann Allen is an associate professor and educational and developmental psychologist at Monash University whose internationally recognized research focuses on the science of belonging in schools. A former school psychologist, she translates research into practical strategies that help students feel connected, supported, and able to thrive. She is the author of several books, including the a...

In this encouraging conversation, Dr. Jacqueline Leighton helps us explore what truly strengthens wellbeing in schools: relationships grounded in respect, trust, and authentic connection. Drawing on decades of research in the psychology of learning and relationships, she highlights why seeking understanding, rather than persuasion, is essential in our interactions with students, families, and coll...

Kathryn Schneider | INTEGRATED CONCUSSION RESEARCH PROGRAM | University of Calgary Concussion Resources | Sport Injury Prevention Research Centre | SIPRC | University of Calgary Best practices in Concussion in Sport: Updates from the Amsterdam International Consensus Statement - The Sport Information Resource Centre SIPRC – SHRED injuries | University of Calgary Concussion Awareness Training Tool...

In this conversation, we learn how a school-wide initiative focused on encouraging students to try things on their own led to improved well-being, less discipline issues, and a culture of support and celebration. Principal Geoffrey Bishop shares how the Fort McMurray Christian school took up a program called Let Grow in their specific school context and how students, teachers and parents were impa...

Rusveer Jones is a proud mom and a military wife. She packs lunches before sunrise and knows the weight of an empty fridge. She is a fierce advocate who’s lived with food insecurity, felt hunger’s sting, and seen how hunger dims a child’s eyes. She recently worked with Brown Bagging for Calgary’s Kids as the Family Engagement Support Coordinator, and is now studying Social & Behavioural Scienc...

In this episode of The Podclass , we welcome Kai Williamson (they/them), a Health and Wellness Consultant with Ever Active Schools. With a background in education and a deep commitment to fostering inclusive, relational spaces, Kai guides us to look through a lens of well-being and belonging. This conversation centers on student well-being while we unpack the impact of gender legislation in Albert...

The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation:  https://nctr.ca/ Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada: Calls to Action  https://ehprnh2mwo3.exactdn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Calls_to_Action_English2.pdf Fanon, F. (1968).  The wretched of the earth . Grove Press. Wilson, Waziyatawin, A. & Yellow Bird, Michael. (Eds.) (2005). For Indigenous eyes only: A decoloniza...

In this highlights episode of The Podclass, host Sarah Balla takes us on a reflective walk through the past year of episodes, shining a light on the most meaningful moments and impactful takeaways that resonated with educators. Listening to this 27-minute episode is an effective way to gather inspiration and discover what sparks your interest. This rewind is more than just a recap;...

In this episode of  The Podclass , host Sarah Balla is joined by educator Chris Reinhart to name the thing we’re all feeling: June is a lot. From the moment the final calendar page flips, it’s a sprint of field trips, assemblies, report cards, and emotional goodbyes. Sound familiar? You're not alone. This 30-minute episode is your permission slip to breathe. Sarah and Chris dive into the beau...

In this episode of The Podclass, host Elizabeth Tingle sits down with Dr. Shannon Kell, PhD and Faculty of Education at Mount Royal University, to explore the power of purposeful breaks. Dr. Kell shares insights into why rest isn't a luxury, it is a necessity for sustainable wellbeing. From pre-service teachers to seasoned educators, we discuss how everyone benefits from intentional paus...

In this episode of The Podclass , host Elizabeth Tingle welcomes Sarah Balla—educator, well-being advocate, and the newest co-host of the podcast. Together, they explore Sarah’s journey through the many pathways of education, from classroom teacher to consultant, and how her personal and professional experiences have shaped a deeper understanding of well-being. The conversation touches on the impo...

In this episode of The Podclass, we're diving into the fascinating world of rhythm, regulation, and physical literacy with Janna Tait, Physical Literacy Education Coordinator for Yukon schools. Janna takes us on a journey through how rhythm isn’t just about music or movement—it’s a powerful tool for learning and regulation. She explains how rhythmic activities help regulate emotions, improve focus...

In this episode of The Podclass, host Elizabeth Tingle delves into the role of humor in the classroom with Dr. Kim Lenters, Canada Research Chair (Tier II) in Language and Literacy Education at the University of Calgary, and teacher Jason Avramenko. They explore how humor can boost student learning and enhance teacher well-being. The discussion covers the benefits of humor, including improved rete...

In this episode of  The Podclass , host Elizabeth Tingle explores how AI can transform education with guests Dr. Sarah Eaton, Michelle Baragar, and Chris Gonzalez. They discuss how AI can streamline administrative tasks—like lesson planning, newsletters, and quizzes—giving teachers more time to focus on meaningful interactions with students. The conversation highlights the importance of ethic...

In this episode of The Podclass, Dr. Jerome Cranston (he/him), a race-conscious scholar-educator, discusses racial equity in K-12 Canadian schools. With a Ph. D. from the University of Manitoba and decades of experience, Dr. Cranston focuses on uncovering and addressing systemic racism in education to foster equity and racial justice. He has led numerous initiatives, including the development of a...

In this episode of The Podclass, Dr. Sunaina Sharma, Lecturer and Practicum Advisor at Brock University, discusses the evolving relationship between digital technology, student engagement, and classroom well-being. She advocates for a thoughtful integration of technology to foster critical thinking, collaboration, and autonomy, moving away from blanket cell phone bans. Dr. Sharma emphasizes co-cre...

In this episode of  The Podclass , host Jamie Anderson dives into an eye-opening conversation with Cassandra Anastásio and Monica Arnold about body image, weight bias, and the pervasive influence of diet culture in educational spaces. Together, they unpack the critical need to foster weight-neutral, inclusive environments within classrooms and schools, aiming to promote students' mental and e...

In this episode, we explore the crucial role of hope in enhancing school health and well-being. Host Elizabeth Tingle and guests Chelsea Hobbs, Natalie Kuhn, and Amy Badger discuss how hope can empower students and teachers. They share personal well-being practices like "hope walks" and creative activities and explain how they integrate hope into their classrooms to build resilience. The conversat...

In this episode of The Podclass, we delve into the crucial need to integrate digital wellness into school curricula while nurturing healthy screen habits. Joining us are Cason Machacek and Sydnie Erlendson, Digital Well-being experts from the Lethbridge School Division, alongside Andrea Halwas Larsen, a Counseling Therapist from Juno House in Calgary. Together, they share insightful strategies for...

In this episode of The Podclass, Health and Wellness Consultants from Ever Active Schools, Tracey Coutts and Shauna Shaker, emphasize the significance of promoting active transportation within school communities. They underscore the importance of establishing safe and accessible routes, engaging parents and the community, and customizing travel plans to suit each school's specific needs. Additiona...