Professional Development With Mr. Drover

Dr. Poppy Gibson is a senior lecturer in education, researcher, and all-around strong voice when it comes to rethinking how we teach and learn. In this episode, we dive deep into what it really means to build authentic relationships with students, why every learner is like a brick wall (in the best way), and how educators can navigate the chaos with purpose. We talk ADHD, imposter syndrome, parenthood, and the mental gymnastics of being a teacher in 2025. Poppy also breaks down her groundbreaking "Future Diversity" project, which is all about giving neurodivergent teens a real voice in shaping their futures — through art, journaling, TikTok-style videos, and more. It’s insightful and full of the kind of energy you only get from people who truly give a damn. Let's dive in!

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In this episode of Professional Development, I sit down with Mitch Catacutan, a teacher currently teaching middle school in WInnipeg, Manitoba. I had to the pleasure of having Mitch as my first mentor-teacher back in University. Coincidently, I was also Mitch's first (and last) student -teacher. We discuss our experiences in education, focusing on mentorship, teaching strategies, and the importance of building relationships with students. We reflect on our growth as educators, the challenges of navigating difficult conversations, and the differences between teaching middle school and high school. We also discuss our excitement for upcoming Marvel releases and .the conversation wraps up with thoughts on Star Wars storytelling. Enjoy!

Today, I’m joined by Steve Boots, a veteran educator, content creator based in Saskatchewan. Steve brings over 17 years of classroom experience and a passion for making Canadian politics and current events accessible, engaging, and often hilarious.In this episode, We explore the morale crisis in education, the complexities of teacher certification across provinces, and the economic implications of education funding. Our conversation also touches on broader societal themes, including the impact of upbringing on perspectives, cognitive dissonance in conservative circles, and the influence of figures like Jordan Peterson on public discourse. We delve into economic concepts such as carbon tax and Universal Basic Income (UBI), emphasizing the need for compassion and understanding in economic discussions.Rounding out the discussion, we explore topics like socialism, governance, conspiracy theories, and addiction, highlighting the importance of community, the need to expand our perspectives, and the value of redirecting energy toward empathy and growth.If you enjoy this episode, be sure to follow, subscribe, and leave a review. it really helps the podcast grow!Now, let’s dive in!

In this episode of Professional Development, I sit down with Cassandra Masters, a multi-talented educator with a background in music and karate. We explore Cassandra’s journey from a band and choir specialist to a generalist teacher aspiring to move into educational leadership. Cassandra discusses how her karate training shaped her approach to structure and discipline in the classroom and reflects on how teaching multiple subjects has broadened her perspective as a future leader.We also discuss the unique challenges of teaching in a small-town school, balancing diverse teaching

assignments, and pursuing a master’s degree in educational leadership. Alongside her teaching journey, Cassandra shares her experiences fostering older animals — a passion she and her husband developed after seeing how difficult it is for elderly pets to find homes. With a dedicated room in their home, they provide a safe space for senior pets to live out their remaining years in comfort.If you enjoy this episode, be sure to follow, subscribe, and leave a review—it really helps the podcast grow!

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Intrigued by Damian's game-changing ideas? Find 'Rebooting Assessment' and his other influential works like 'Talk About Assessment' on Amazon: https://shorturl.at/sBwHT

Welcome back! Today, I'm honored to introduce our guest, Damian Cooper, a highly respected independent education consultant with a career spanning several decades. Damian specializes in helping schools and districts worldwide enhance their instructional and assessment practices.  

Damian's expertise is sought after both nationally and internationally, and he's a frequent speaker at major educational events. Beyond his consulting work, he's a prolific author, with notable publications including 'Talk About Assessment,' 'Redefining Fair,' and, most recently, 'Rebooting Assessment'.  

His work emphasizes a shift towards more balanced assessment, meaningful assessment, and effective assessment strategies that truly support student learning. Damian's insights challenge traditional approaches and provide educators with practical, research-based tools to improve their practice. I'm incredibly excited to dive into a conversation with him today about 'Rebooting Assessment' and its impact on my own teaching.

In this episode of Professional Development, we continue the discussion with Neil Sandham— We explore how Indigenous perspectives can be meaningfully integrated into classrooms—not just by adding content, but by shifting the very way we think about science, inquiry, and knowledge itself. Neil reflects on his time teaching in Morley, Alberta, and challenges the performative nature of some current FNMI initiatives in education.Our conversation expands into how forensic science creates the perfect sandbox for inquiry-based learning, why passion is critical to avoiding burnout, and how teachers can bring more of themselves into the classroom without losing sight of student needs.From capillary density in distance runners to Spider-Man lore and why meaningful work matters more than workload, this episode moves through education, science, comics, and personal growth—all woven together with humor, honesty, and a deep love for teaching.This episode is a must-listen for educators, students, and anyone who believes that real learning can—and should—go beyond ticking boxes.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on education, innovation, and finding purpose in a noisy world.

In this episode of Professional Development, I sit down with Neil Sandham—an experienced educator, shop teacher turned science specialist, and a thoughtful voice in Alberta’s education landscape—for a wide-ranging conversation on what’s really happening in schools today.Neil shares his personal journey from earning an English degree to teaching science for over three decades, and how he’s adapted through shifts in curriculum, technology, and student needs. We talk about the evolving role of teachers post-COVID, why knowledge gaps are growing, and how education must meet students where they are—without judgment.This episode explores the breakdown in trust between parents and schools, the importance of collaboration, and the toll modern life takes on students, teachers, and families alike. We also dive deep into space exploration, including the Artemis missions, and how innovations meant for the Moon and Mars are already helping us here on Earth.This episode is a must-listen for educators, parents, students, and anyone invested in the future of teaching, learning, and human potential.🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on education, innovation, and making sense of a rapidly changing world.

In this episode of Professional Development, I sit down with Timothy Cho, a North Korean escapee, human rights advocate, and Christian activist, to explore his extraordinary journey—from surviving political prison camps in North Korea to building a new life in the United Kingdom.

Timothy shares raw, first-hand accounts of escaping twice from North Korea, surviving Chinese detention, and the emotional toll of trauma, displacement, and rebuilding from scratch. He reflects on how his faith developed through suffering, the power of forgiveness, and the responsibility that comes with living in a free, democratic society.

This conversation delves into the dangers of propaganda and dictatorship, the importance of global dialogue, and the ongoing fight for human rights around the world—including in North Korea, Ukraine, and China. Timothy and I also explore the role of empathy in education, mental health, and what it really means to be free.

This episode is a must-listen for educators, students, faith leaders, activists, and anyone passionate about democracy, global justice, or resilience in the face of adversity.

🔔 Subscribe for more conversations on education, advocacy, and global citizenship.
🎧 Also available on YouTube!

In this episode of Professional Development, I sit down with Jordan Lawson, a dedicated teacher based in southern Alberta. We explore Jordan’s unique journey into education—from an early interest in dentistry to discovering a true passion for teaching. Jordan reflects on the impact of early academic experiences, the importance of resilience, and how building strong relationships with students shapes a positive classroom culture.

We also dive into the realities of balancing personal life with teaching, the dynamics of coaching diverse teams, and navigating challenges like outcome-based reporting. Throughout our conversation, Jordan emphasizes the value of student ownership, the power of engagement, and the deeper motivations that drive educators to support their students beyond the curriculum.

If you enjoy this episode, be sure to follow, subscribe, and leave a review—it really helps the podcast grow!

In this episode of Professional Development, I sit down with Marc Geller, known for his captivating portrayal of Kier Eagan in Apple TV+'s hit series, Severance. We explore Marc's journey as an actor, from his early experiences in theater and navigating the challenges of auditions to his work on the critically acclaimed Severance. Marc shares insights into bringing the enigmatic Kier to life, working with Ben Stiller and Dan Erickson, and the unique experience of voice acting for a character with such a strong presence.   Beyond Severance, we discuss the craft of acting and the power of storytelling, and even take a detour into our shared appreciation for horror movies!   If you enjoy this episode, be sure to follow, subscribe, and leave a review—it really helps the podcast grow!