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PODCAST · education

The Podclass

by Ever Active

Bringing together the worlds of health, education and well-being to support and inspire school communities.

Publisher-supplied feed metadata · PodParley refreshed Oct 16, 2026 · Source feed

Episodes

  1. The Joyful Commute: Connection, Community, and the Power of Bike Bus with Jenn Mireau & Kellen Westman

    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...

  2. Supporting Positive Social Connections with Dr. Liz Baker & Dr. Deinera Exner-Cortens

    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...

  3. LINKing Hope to Action: Using National Standards to Drive Systems Change with Dr. Kate Storey

    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...

  4. Women & Girls InMotion: Reimagining Sport

    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...

  5. Building Belonging in Schools with Dr. Kelly-Ann Allen

    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...

  6. Respect Before Persuasion with Dr. Jacqueline Leighton

    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...

  7. The Impact of Concussions in School with Dr. Kathryn Schneider

    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...

  8. Letting Go to Let Grow with Geoffrey Bishop & Andrea Keith

    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...

  9. Conversations on Food Insecurity with Rusveer Jones

    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...

  10. Unpacking Gender Legislation in Alberta with Kai Williamson

    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...

  11. Re-Imagining Education Through Reconciliation & Decolonization with Kevin Lamoureux

    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…

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  12. The Highlights: Our Favourite Moments from this Past Year

    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...

  13. Surviving June: Freezies, Field Trips & Connection in The Chaos with Chris Reinhart

    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…

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  14. The Power of Purposeful Breaks: Exploring the Need For Breaks with Dr. Shannon Kell

    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...

  15. Pathways to Well-being: Introducing Our New Co-Host Sarah Balla

    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...

  16. Regulating Through Rhythm: The Power of Physical Literacy with Janna Tait

    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...

  17. Leveraging AI for Teacher Well-Being with Dr. Sarah Eaton, Michelle Baragar and Chris Gonsalvez

    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…

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  18. Laughing to Learn: Exploring Classroom Humour with Dr. Kim Lenters and Jason Avramenko

    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…

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  19. A Systems Approach to Racial Equity in K-12 Canadian Schools with Jerome Cranston Ph.D.

    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…

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  20. Student Engagement and Digital Technology with Dr. Sunaina Sharma

    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...

  21. Weight-Neutral Classrooms: Rethinking Body Image in Schools with Cassandra Anastásio and Monica Arnold

    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…

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  22. Harnessing Hope: Building Resilience in Schools

    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...

  23. Navigating Digital Well-being in Schools

    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...

  24. Active School Travel with Tracey Coutts and Shauna M. Shaker

    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...

  25. All Gender Physical Health and Education with Andrea Barrow

    Today on The Podclass, we're switching things up with an episode from our friends at Physical Education and Health Canada (PHE). Their podcast, launched in January, spotlights guests and topics relevant to phys ed and health. We're featuring their latest episode: "All Gender Physical Education…

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  26. The Role of Trustrees in School Well-being with Kristina Larkin

    In this episode of The Podclass, we delve into the pivotal role of school trustees in fostering well-being within educational environments. Kristina Larkin, a trustee with the Lethbridge school division, highlights trustees' responsibilities in Alberta's education system, from advocating for...

  27. Dance, Embodied Movement and Anti-Oppressive Practice to Support Well-being

    In this podcast episode, titled "Dance, Embodied Movement, and Anti-Oppressive Practice with Dr. Towani Duchscher," Dr. Duchscher shares her expertise on integrating dance into anti-oppressive practices, discussing self-care, the transformative power of movement, the intersection of education and...

  28. Social Emotional Learning with Dr. Kimberley Schonert-Reichl

    In this episode of The Podclass, Dr. Kimberley Schonert-Reichl, Director of the Human Early Learning Partnership at UBC's School of Population and Public Health, delves into the fundamental importance of Social-Emotional Learning (SEL). She defines its core competencies and emphasizes its pivotal...

  29. Exploring Alcohol Conversations in School: Use, Prevention, and Harm Reduction with Karen Matson and Greg Paterson

    In this episode, experts Greg Paterson and Karen Matson explore the intricate landscape of addressing alcohol use in school settings. Greg, drawing from education, psychology, and addiction services, joins forces with Karen, an advocate in mental health promotion and prevention. Infographic for...

  30. Nurturing Student Passions with Jason Kupery

    In this episode, we dive into the world of education and the importance of helping students find their passions and navigate their paths to success. Our guest, Jason Kupery, the Director of Learning at Palliser School Division shares his journey as an educator and how he's working to create...

  31. Teacher Well-being and System-level Support with Nancy Luyckfassel

    Elizabeth and Jamie speak with Nancy Luyckfassel, Professional Development Coordinator at the Alberta Teachers Association, about teacher well-being. They look at the ways that systems and institutions can support teachers, through avenues like professional development, issues advocacy, and more....

  32. Supporting Students in Crisis with Tom Wong

    Jamie speaks with Tom Wong, a learning leader for the Unique Pathways program with the Calgary Board of Education, about the best ways to support students in acute crises. They dive into ways that relationships with students, parents, and other teachers are integral to creating environments where...

  33. Weight-Neutral Approaches to Physical Activity with Natalie Costa and Sarah Balla

    Elizabeth speaks with Natalie Costa from Alberta Health Services and Sarah Balla from Elk Island Catholic Schools about taking a weight-neutral approach to physical education classes. They cover a host of topics from fitness testing to nutrition, school sports to swim classes, and more.…

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  34. Lesson Planning with Well-being in Mind with Dr. Michelle Kilborn

    Elizabeth talks with Dr. Michelle Kilborn, assistant professor of teaching from the University of Calgary, about ways to build lesson plans where well-being is embedded. They discuss ideas that contribute positively to students' and collective classroom well-being, including active, dynamic and...

  35. Gender Equity in the Classroom with Daley Laing

    Jamie is joined by Daley Laing from the ARC Foundation to discuss ways to make classrooms equitable for all genders. They dive into the SOGI 123 framework, as well as look at concrete strategies for creating inclusive class environments. Additional resources: The ARC Foundation SOGI 123 Website...

  36. Implementing the New Physical Education and Wellness Curriculum with Adam Pratt

    Elizabeth is joined by Adam Pratt, an elementary school teacher and health and wellness consultant with Ever Active Schools, to discuss the new Alberta physical education and wellness curriculum. They discuss ideas and methods for implementing any curriculum, and ideas for cross-curricular...

  37. Outdoor Education with Court Rustemeyer

    Jamie chats with GEOEC president and junior high teacher Court Rustemeyer about the long-lasting impacts of outdoor education, and how getting outside doesn't just benefit students, but teachers as well! Starting small at the beginning of the school year can set the stage for a successful year in...

  38. GSAs with Lauren Alston

    Jamie talks with Lauren Alston, PhD candidate and former provincial GSA coordinator, about Gay-Straight Alliances (GSA's) and how they benefit school communities as a whole, contribute to student leadership skills, and how teachers can support GSA's in their own school communities. Resources:...

  39. Shaping the Future of Well-being in Schools

    Jamie guides us through conversations about how well-being can be brought to life, set against the backdrop of Shaping the Future - an annual conference that focuses on wellness in school and community settings. Hear from a number of Ever Active Schools team members, teachers, health promoters…

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  40. Culture, Spirituality and Mental Well-being with Dr. Karlee Fellner - Part 2

    Note: This episode is the second part of Jamie's conversation with Dr. Karlee Fellner. We strongly recommend listening to part 1 of this conversation first as some of the ideas discussed are linked to the earlier conversation (listen to part 1 here). Jamie continues his conversation with Dr.…

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  41. Culture, Spirituality and Mental Well-being with Dr. Karlee Fellner - Part 1

    Jamie is joined by Dr. Karlee Fellner, founder and CEO of maskihkiy wellness and associate professor at the University of Calgary, to talk about the intersections of culture, spirituality and overall well-being. They delve into personal wellness as part of collective wellness, including the…

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  42. Teaching Sexual Health with Confidence with Jocelyn Graham and Kaitlyn Hill

    Jamie is joined by Jocelyn Graham and Kaitlyn Hill, health promotion facilitators with Alberta Health Services, to dive into sexual health education. Jocelyn and Kaitlyn share a variety of strategies and resources that any teacher can use in their classroom to provide evidence-based, inclusive...

  43. Learning to Love Substitute Teaching with Dr. Jodi Harding-Kuriger

    Elizabeth discusses substitute teaching with Dr. Jodi Harding-Kuriger, a teacher of 16 years and passionate health & physical education proponent. They explore the benefits of substitute teaching, and Jodi provides tried and true strategies for substitute teachers as they venture into new...

  44. Energize Your Classroom with Andrea, Chesa and Scott from Ever Active Schools

    Andrea Dion, Chesa Peter, and Scott Bailey from Ever Active Schools join Elizabeth to discuss ways to bring physical activity into your classroom, regardless of the subject. They look at the importance and benefits of daily physical activity, how to tie activity to cross-curricular outcomes, and...

  45. Teaching is 'Heart' Work: Centring Well-being and Managing Stresses with Dr. Kendrick and Dr. Kapoyannis

    Dr. Astrid Kendrick and Dr. Theodora Kapoyannis from Werklund School of Education at the University of Calgary join Elizabeth to discuss the role of emotional labour in education, teaching as relational work, and self-care in the presence of collective well-being. Additional resources: Compassion...

  46. Substance Use from a School Health Perspective with Cindy Andrew

    Jamie talks with Cindy Andrew, a health promotion consultant with organizations including the Centre for Addictions Research of British Columbia and the Psychology Foundation of Canada. Cindy shares her expertise in ways to promote healthy behaviours and curb problematic substance use in students...

  47. Bringing a CSH Initiative to Life with Rebecca St. Louis

    Former B.Ed. student Rebecca St. Louis shares how an assignment in the EDUC 551 course at the University of Calgary informed a successful school-wide initiative to promote kindness during her field experience. She also shares advice on making the most of her last semester and applying for…

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  48. Inclusive Physical Activity with Dr. Jen Leo and Katrina Maximchuk

    Jamie talks with Dr. Jen Leo, director at The Steadward Centre for Personal & Physical Achievement, and Katrina Maximchuk, executive director at Paralympic Sports Association, about making physical activity and education accessible for all students. They share stories, practical strategies,...

  49. Reimagining School Sport with Dr. Doug Gleddie, Dr. Lauren Sulz, and Jonathan Mauro

    Jamie is joined by Dr. Doug Gleddie, Dr. Lauren Sulz and Jonathan Mauro to discuss all things school sports. They look at the ways school sports are part of a healthy school community, what benefits they provide to students who participate, and how school sports can be reimagined so more students...

  50. Mental Health and Substance Use with Members of the Youth Addictions and Mental Health Provincial Advisory Council

    Content warning: discussions of suicidal ideation and abuse Jamie talks with Alberta Health Services Youth Addiction and Mental Health Provincial Advisory Council (YAMH PAC) members Katelyn, Nik, and Heather about their experiences on the council and lived experiences with mental health and...

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Bringing together the worlds of health, education and well-being to support and inspire school communities.

HOSTED BY

Ever Active

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does The Podclass have?

The Podclass currently has 72 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is The Podclass about?

Bringing together the worlds of health, education and well-being to support and inspire school communities.

How often does The Podclass release new episodes?

The Podclass has 72 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to The Podclass?

You can listen to The Podclass on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts The Podclass?

The Podclass is created and hosted by Ever Active.
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