Episodi

  • Uncover the shocking truth about human and sex trafficking in Canada with survivor Kaitlin Bick who courageously shares her journey from vulnerability to victimization and ultimately to becoming an advocate for others. Kaitlin's raw and honest account of her childhood insecurities, substance abuse, and exploitation provides a deeply personal perspective on the complex factors that can lead to the crimes that were inflicted on her humanity and how hard it is to return your life to some form of normality.

    Expert Insights

    Carly Kalish, Executive Director of Victim Services Toronto.

    Jennifer Price from Women's College Hospital

    Why Listen?

    Gain a rare survivors’ perspective on human and sexual trafficking

    Understand how traffickers’ prey

    Learn to recognize warning signs in your community

    Be inspired by one woman's journey from victim to hero

    This isn't just Kaitlin's story – it's an important story for all.

    Thanks to Kelly Grier and HART: Human Anti-Trafficking Response Team for sponsoring this episode. To find out more about the work they are doing, https://harthelps.com

    To find out more about Victim's Services Toronto, https://www.victimservicestoronto.com

    To find out more about Women's College Hospital, https://www.womenscollegehospital.ca

  • Reinventing Healthcare, Four Women at a Time. In this powerful episode, I chat with Amy Louis-Bayliss, MD MSCP, and Lindsay Stollery Jephcott, two of four visionary women—three doctors and an entrepreneur—who unite to transform women’s healthcare.

    Rather than rushing to build a business, they began by aligning their values and purpose, grounding their venture in a commitment to make a real impact.

    Through Lume Women + Health, they tackle a crucial, often overlooked need: personalized healthcare for women. They address menopause, sexual health, and overall wellness with a unique, preventive approach.

    At the same time, the episode examines the broader healthcare system’s challenges and the toll on patients and front-line workers alike. It explores the idea that a fusion of private-sector innovation and a shared vision for accessible care could bring scalable, lasting change. This conversation offers an inspiring blend of entrepreneurial grit, health advocacy, and lessons in building purpose-driven partnerships.

    And their approach could change healthcare for the better across our country.

    To learn more about Lume Women + Health: https://lumewomenshealth.com

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  • I sit down with the remarkable Debbie Travis, a woman who has spent her life pursuing her dreams, taking bold leaps, and transforming television. Debbie is an entrepreneur extraordinaire. We learn about her humble beginnings to becoming a successful model, a world-renowned and beloved television personality, author, speaker, and today running a Villa in Tuscany.

    Debbie’s unapologetic honesty shines through as she discusses her challenges and how she turned them into opportunities. Whether you're looking for inspiration, laughter, or ideas on approaching life, you will love hearing Debbie's story as much as I loved interviewing her.

    To learn more about Debbie and to buy her new book,

    Laugh More: Stories from an Unexpected Life: https://debbietravis.com

  • In this episode of Chatter that Matters, I take on one of the toughest challenges facing us today, and many would argue one of our biggest problems to solve: affordable housing. First, you’ll meet Calum MacKay, a young man and a captivating storyteller who takes us on his journey of turning the impossible into reality. Living in Vancouver, where home prices are sky-high, Calum and his wife faced the harsh truth that even with their combined incomes, they couldn’t afford to rent, let alone buy a home for their soon-to-be expanded family. But Calum didn’t give up. With a blend of creativity, resilience, and sheer determination, he made homeownership happen in a way that seems almost miraculous. His story isn’t just about luck—it’s about finding innovative solutions in the face of overwhelming odds.

    But Calum’s experience is just one side of the story. We then dive into the broader conversation with two experts who offer insights on how we can tackle the housing affordability crisis on a larger scale.

    Brad Bradford, a dynamic and forward-thinking city councillor from Toronto, joins us to discuss the political and bureaucratic shifts needed to support housing development. He highlights the importance of breaking down barriers and creating a “culture of yes” where innovative housing solutions can thrive.

    Next, Leah Robinson, Vice President at RBC, shares how the bank is stepping up to help homeowners find new ways to afford and optimize their living spaces. Her comments are not a sales pitch but sage and honest advice on how to create multi-generational living and income-generating spaces like laneway homes and rental suites; as she says, this isn't the faint of heart, but with the right collaboration banks, municipalities, and builders you can find and fund your way.

    Why You Should Listen:

    This episode will inspire you to make the impossible possible and offer actionable insights and ideas for approaching any problem, including owning your own home.

    To find out more about funding your impossible dream:

    https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/mortgages/building-your-own-house.html?utm_source=vanity&utm_medium=marketing&utm_campaign=mtg_constructionmortgage

  • Sitting down with extraordinary entrepreneur and thought leader Chip Conley was an absolute joy. In his twenties, he founded Joie de Vivre Hospitality. After facing near death, he sold his business and helped mentor the founders of Airbnb to realize their success.

    A best-selling author, sought-after speaker, and visionary. Chip now leads an extraordinary movement to redefine how we approach aging through the Modern Elder Academy.

    Some of the key takeaways:

    A Deep Dive into Curiosity: Chip shares the power of staying curious at every stage of life and how curiosity can fuel personal and professional growth.

    Wisdom for Entrepreneurs: Chip reveals vital lessons learned from building and leading successful businesses while staying true to a sense of joy and purpose.

    Relevance for Modern Leaders: For anyone in leadership roles or aspiring to be, Chip’s journey from leading by ego to mentoring with soul offers valuable insights on cultivating wisdom and influence across generations.

    Emotional Intelligence: Understand how emotional intelligence grows with age and why it matters more than ever in today’s rapidly changing world.

    Midlife: Instead of a crisis, we should consider it a chrysalis, awakening our purpose and passion.

    Emotions: They are contagious.

    Journey: The first part of your life is about building your resume, and the second is about building your eulogy.

    To learn more about Chip, the Modern Elder Academy and to purchase his books, https://chipconley.com

  • We live in troubling times where the dangerous echoes of history pound onto Canada's streets. Chants calling for the eradication of an entire population are not just words—they are a chilling reminder of humanity’s darkest chapters. My show this week confronts the reality of the genocide, both past and present, and explores how hate-filled rhetoric, left unchecked, can lead to unimaginable atrocities.

    I want to understand more about genocide and why it is even possible. Why are some humans, and sadly some in power, wired that way? My guest today is Amra Sabic-El-Rayess. She is a Muslim and a survivor of the Bosnian genocide. Amra endured unimaginable horrors, losing loved ones and witnessing the brutality of ethnic cleansing. Despite this, she emerged not with hate but with a mission to combat intolerance and violence.

    Amra made her way to America with no money nor any command of English. Today, Amra holds a Ph.D. from Columbia University, where she focuses on education, conflict, and social justice. She specializes in the role of education in preventing violence and fostering social cohesion.

    If applied in every home and classroom, what Amra has to say could save the human race and create a world of love, not hate.

    To my Jewish friends, Shanah Tovah. You deserve peace and prosperity. This is your time, and I hope everyone's time for reflection, repentance, and renewal.

    To purchase Amra's books or to learn more: https://www.sabicelrayess.org

  • "Aging is a design problem, not a disease. Our current societal infrastructure isn't just outdated; it limits the possibilities for fulfilling, extended lives." – Dr. Joe Coughlin.

    Are you ready to rethink your approach to aging and retirement?

    In this life-opening episode of Chatter That Matters, I sit down with Dr. Joe F. Coughlin, founder and director of the MIT AgeLab. We dive deep into the transformative insights from Dr. Coughlin's pioneering work on aging. From the importance of planning for a 100-year life to the crucial role of women in shaping aging dynamics, Dr. Coughlin challenges traditional views and highlights the vast opportunities that come with extended adulthood. He also underscores the critical need for well-designed technology and innovative approaches to retirement.

    Dr. Joe Coughlin is a visionary who doesn't fill boardrooms; he fills stadiums. He is a senior contributor to Forbes and The Wall Street Journal. He has served on advisory boards for numerous global firms and was appointed to the White House advisory committee on aging.

    Joe will challenge your thinking about growing older and living longer. Dr. Coughlin shares how technological advancements, shifting societal norms, and new ideas can help us all live longer, healthier, and more fulfilling lives.

    We'll explore his groundbreaking insights on the longevity dividend and why old age, as we know it, is outdated. Whether navigating your aging journey or supporting loved ones through theirs, this conversation will inspire you to rethink what's possible in the years ahead.

    Leanne Kaufmann, President and CEO of Royal Trust, returns to the show to share what RBC Wealth is doing. RBC Wealth partners with organizations like the MIT Age Lab, the Cleveland Clinic, the National Institute on Aging, the Women’s Brain Insitute, Elder Caring and the Women’s Age Lab to help clients understand and navigate the vital intersection of longevity, technology, and proactive retirement planning.

    To buy Dr. Coughlin's books. https://www.amazon.com/Books-Joseph-F-Coughlin/s?rh=n%3A283155%2Cp_27%3AJoseph+F.+Coughlin

    Follow him on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjoecoughlin

  • Have you ever wondered what it was like to raise BeyoncĂ© as a father and be her manager? Or how Destiny's Child came to be one of the best-selling girl groups of all time. The role brands like L’OrĂ©al and Pepsi played in BeyoncĂ©'s early success as a solo artist.

    Mathew Knowles, the father of Beyoncé and Solange, joins Chatter that Matters to share his remarkable journey from a Father of Beyoncé and Solange to a Music Industry Manager, then a Mogul to a Civil Rights Crusader, a Survivor of Male Breast Cancer, and Keynote Speaker.

    Mathew Knowles will deliver a keynote at the After Breast Cancer Gala on September 29, 2024, from 12 to 6 pm, at the Bellvu Manor in Vaughan, Ontario. Tickets can be purchased here: https://www.afterbreastcancer.ca/pink-diamond-gala-2024

    10 Moments That Matter:

    1. [02:09] Matthew Knowles discusses being a child when schools were being desegregated
    2. [05:09] The classroom incident that taught Knowles the importance of being prepared
    3. [08:30] How Knowles got his job at Xerox through a chance encounter
    4. [11:05] Beyoncé as a young child
    5. [13:19] Sharing Destiny's Child's successes and failures and why both matter
    6. [15:06] The decision to transition from corporate America to music management
    7. [16:46] Navigating the challenges of being both a parent and manager
    8. [18:41] Practicing failure as part of artist development for Destiny's Child
    9. [19:18] Approaching the music industry from a worldwide perspective
    10. [20:48] Knowles' battle with male breast cancer

    To learn more about Mathew Knowles, https://www.mathewknowles.com/

  • Today, we delve into the remarkable journey of Dr. Shahana Alibhai, a distinguished family physician and mental health advocate who focuses on youth from equity-deserving neighbourhoods. Shahana grew up in a family that had 72 hours to flee Uganda during the expulsion of Asian minorities under Idi Amin. She witnessed her parents' resilience, adaptability, and optimism in the face of extreme hardship. Her parents taught her the value of education, gratitude, and giving back.


    Shahana discusses her struggles with her mental health, including OCD, eating disorders, excessive exercise, the pressures of academic achievement, and the profound impact of cultural and familial expectations. Her story is a testament to the importance of addressing mental health.


    We also discuss her book Feel Better, endorsed by Mel Robbins. It is an insightful exploration of emotional health, offering practical tools to help individuals understand and manage their emotions. Dr. Shahana Alibhai provides a compassionate guide for navigating mental health challenges. You will learn about your Emotional Palette and practical strategies for integrating your physical, emotional, and mental health.


    Whether you're dealing with your challenges or supporting others through theirs, this episode offers valuable insights into the importance of self-awareness, community support, and proactive mental health care.

    To learn more about Dr. Alibhai, book her as a speaker, or purchase her book: https://drshahana.com]


    Moments That Matter


    1. [00:00:21] - Dr. Alibhai discusses the courage required to seek help and the connection it fosters.
    2.[00:00:57] - Dr. Alibhai opens up about her mental health challenges.
    3. [00:02:11] - A deeper look into how Dr. Alibhai defines her professional identity beyond her credentials.
    4. [00:06:24] - The impactful story of Dr. Alibhai's parents' escape from Uganda and its influence on her values.
    5. [00:10:38] - Dr. Alibhai speaks about the importance of self-acknowledgment and understanding one's worth.
    6. [00:14:27] - Discussion on the critical role of education in Dr. Alibhai's family values.
    7. [00:19:14] - The collaboration with Adrienne Gostick and the personal significance behind her book, *Feeling Better*.
    8. [00:22:07] - Dr. Alibhai explains the clues each emotion provides and the importance of curiosity.
    9. [00:27:28] - Introduction of the Optimal Health Pyramid and its components for a balanced life.
    10. [00:36:15] - The concept of "joy stretching" and recognizing the small moments of joy in everyday life.

  • As the Paralympics light up Paris this week, with athletes from over 170 countries showcasing their incredible talents, I felt compelled to do a special show to honor their achievements. My journey led me to the inspiring story of Danielle Campo—someone who has never let her disability define her. Diagnosed with muscular dystrophy and once told she'd never walk, Danielle not only defied their predictions but went on to become a world record holder and an eight-time Paralympic medalist in swimming.

    In 2021, Danielle faced an even bigger battle. This time, it wasn't in the pool but in a hospital bed, fighting against life-threatening sepsis. With just a ten percent chance of survival, she was even given her last rites. But just as she's done her entire life, Danielle fought back, turning pain into purpose.

    Her story is one of faith, hope, and unmatched resilience. I weave Joel Dembe, a fellow Paralympian and celebrated keynote speaker, into the show. Joel provides context on Danielle's achievements and her will to survive and even offers her ideas on how to share her story on the conference stage.

    To book Danielle Campo for a speaking engagement: https://www.daniellecampo.com

  • As the world eagerly anticipates the premiere of the new documentary on The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), I am thrilled to bring you an exclusive interview with Jake Gold, one of the world's music mavens, Canadian Idol Judge, and the legendary manager who played a pivotal role in shaping The Hip's iconic career. Jake Gold managed The Tragically Hip during their rise to fame, offering unparalleled insights into the band's journey, their chemistry, the genius of Gord Downie, and the music that moved the world.

    Jake shares stories from the heart—what it was like to see the raw, untamed talent of Gord Downie and the band for the first time, how they crafted their unique sound, and the challenges they faced along the way. As we delve into their legacy and the deeply emotional moments surrounding Gord Downie's passing, Jake provides a behind-the-scenes look at how the band’s music continues to resonate across generations.

    Jake shares what he and others are doing to preserve their legacy, including this upcoming documentary.

    Mark Thomas from RBC joins me to discuss their plans with TIFF. Spoiler alert: They include RBC House, RBC Red Carpet Gallery, Elton John: Never Too Late and Antonio Bocelli's documentary 'Because I Believe, and so much more.

    The Tiff Premier is Thursday Sept 5, 2024

    You can also watch it on Amazon Prime: September 20, 2024

  • In this heartfelt episode, I interview Jan Stewart, a mental health advocate, and author of Hold on Tight: A Parent's Journey Raising Children with Mental Illness. Jan shares her deeply personal journey of raising two neurodivergent children, Andrew and Ainsley, and the challenges her family has faced. From early signs of their children’s struggles to navigating a complex healthcare system, Jan's story is one of resilience, love, and relentless advocacy. Despite the immense challenges, Jan finds strength in her family, community, and mission to help others facing similar situations. This episode is a powerful testament to the strength of parents who dedicate their lives to supporting their children through adversity.

    To buy Jan Stewart's book: https://www.amazon.ca/Hold-Tight-Parents-Journey-Children/dp/1988025974

  • Ever wondered what it was like to live at Paul McCartney's place, or the band dynamics within the members of Rolling Stones? Find out in our exclusive Chatter That Matters episode where Prince Stash shares the 1960s counterculture and his time playing music and hanging out with members of the Beatles, The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, and many more.

    A wonderful storyteller, Prince Stash, transports us to an era of radical change, creativity, and rebellion. His stories are not just memories but lessons in resilience, the pursuit of freedom, and the power of personal transformation.

    Listeners will be drawn into a world where the boundaries between art, music, and culture collide and coincide.

    (And this is only Part One)

  • How many of the world's creative thinkers - our songwriters, poets, comedians, and artists began life escaping from the reality of their life? One that I know is my guest this week. Aaron Starkman is one of the top 100 Creative Minds in Advertising, and the Chief Creative Officer of Rethink, a Canadian Agency that is recognized as the best in the world.

    Aaron shares his journey from a challenging childhood to rising to the top while offering insights into the creative process and why processing it matters to one's life and livelihood.

    Highlights of This Episode:

    Uncovering the Creative Process: Explore the unique strategies that have propelled Rethink to the top of the advertising world.

    From Trauma to Triumph: Learn how Aaron’s early experiences shaped his resilience and fostered his creativity.

    Mental Health and Personal Growth: Aaron’s candid story about overcoming anxiety and what he had to do to find peace and clarity.

    The Power of Insights: Discover the importance of seeing what others might overlook.

    Setting the Conditions for Success: Understand how a process-driven approach leads to remarkable outcomes.

  • One of my favourite quotes is by Steve Jobs, who once said, "We're here to put a dent in the universe." I celebrate those who choose to do so, who overcome circumstances to chase their dreams and change their world and ours for the better. I'm thrilled to introduce my guest for today's episode: Jon Cornish.

    Jon Cornish is a dynamic and multifaceted individual. As a former College and CFL star, he established himself as one of the most outstanding athletes in Canadian football history. Beyond his athletic prowess, Jon is deeply committed to community engagement and social impact. He and his wife co-founded the Calgary Black Chambers, an organization dedicated to supporting and empowering Black youth through mentorship, networking, and scholarship opportunities. As a financial advisor with RBC Dominion Securities, Jon helps his clients navigate the complexities of life and money matters. His mantra is 'Let’s achieve your dreams, together'.

    There are many insights for you to take away on your day today.

    Highlights

    1. [00:00:03] The Power of Impact - I open the show reflecting on how words, particularly "impact," shape" our world and introduce Jon Cornish as a prime example of a person whose life embodies this concept.

    2. [00:01:17] Jon recounts his illustrious career in the CFL, emphasizing resilience and his impact on the field and within his team.

    3. [00:02:05] Leadership as Chancellor: Jon discusses his role as the youngest Chancellor at the University of Calgary, focusing on how he leverages his position to create meaningful change in the academic community.

    4. [00:03:02] Founding Calgary Black Chambers: Jon shares the vision and mission behind the Calgary Black Chambers, an organization he founded to support and mentor Black students and professionals.

    5. [00:06:13] Early Life Influences: This section provides insights into Jon's childhood and his mother's role in inspiring Jon to do more and be more.

    6. [00:09:27] Identity and Intersectionality: Jon discusses his experiences with identity and race and how these challenges shaped his character and mission to positively impact others.

    7. [00:17:00] Financial Advisory Role: Jon talks about his work as a financial advisor, transitioning from sports. He focuses on helping clients align their finances with their dreams and aspirations, ensuring their financial plans have a lasting impact.

    8. [00:22:13] Community Engagement: Jon's work, including his efforts at Alberta's Children's Hospital and Habitat for Humanity, highlights his commitment to giving back and impacting beyond his professional life.

    9. [00:27:10] Mentorship and Empowerment: Stories of how Jon mentors young individuals, helping them achieve their goals and impact the world.

    10. [00:34:55] Future Aspirations: Jon reflects on his goals and plans to continue making a significant impact through his various roles and initiatives.

    And, of course, my three takeaways.



  • Dr. Brian Goldman is a veteran ER physician and an award-winning medical reporter for CBC Television's The Health Show and The National. He's known across Canada as CBC Radio One's "House Doctor." Brian has a proven knack for making sense of medical baffelgab. He has two top-rated shows, White Coat Black Art and The Dose.

    On Chatter that Matters, Dr. Goldman shares his journey from a young medical resident to seasoned physician, and how, including the loss of his sister to dementia, he learned that medicine is as much about human connection as it is about clinical expertise. He also offers his thoughts on what need to happen to care for our health care.

    Leanne Kaufman then joins the show to discuss the exciting work RBC Wealth Management is doing to support healthy ageing.

  • 'Heaven is the Feeling One Leaves on Earth.'

    Abandoned at Birth. Join me this week on Chatter that Matters for the heart-wrenching and uplifting story of Janet Sherlund, author of Abandoned at Birth: Searching for the Arms That Once Held Me. Janet discusses the profound effects of adoption on her identity and self-esteem, sharing her lifelong quest to reconnect with her birth parents and uncover who she is.

    I cried when Janet discovered her adoption details, celebrated her life-changing reunion with her birth father and was sickened by the coldness of her birth mother. I also learned about the critical importance of understanding one's biological roots.

    As the episode unfolds, Janet's courage, resilience, and the complexities of love and family will move you. Ending on hope and positivity, this conversation celebrates the bonds that tie us together and the enduring power of understanding where we come from.

    This compelling episode will open your heart and touch your soul.

    1. My opening

    2. [00:01:23]: Janet describes the compulsion to reconnect with her birth mother.

    3. [00:01:41]: Janet Sherlund discusses why she wrote her memoir.

    4. [00:02:55]: Janet reads the prologue of her book, describing her drive to the adoption agency and her emotions.

    5. [00:04:38]: Janet learns important facts from her adoption file.

    6. [00:12:39]: Tony and Janet discuss her complicated relationship with her adoptive mother, Audrey.

    7. [00:21:28]: Janet talks about the importance of biological roots and the strengths she discovered through her DNA.

    8. [00:26:42]: The profound impact of meeting her birth father, Larry, and the unconditional love she experienced.

    9. [00:31:07]: Janet explains her ongoing desire to connect with her birth mother and the rejection she felt when the meeting finally happened.

    [00:43:22]: Reflections on the lessons from Janet's story, her adoptive and birth parents, and the powerful message about love and identity.

    My three takeaways.

    To connect with Janet and to buy her book, Abandonedatbirthbook.com

  • To build excitement for the Paris Olympics episode, I sit down with the inspirational Avalon Wasteneys, a Canadian Olympic Gold Medallist and a powerhouse in the rowing world. Avalon shares her journey from being raised in a family of world-renowned athletes to what it took to be part of a team that won Olympic Gold.

    From her early days as a competitive cross-country skier to putting her oar into the water, Avalon's lane is powered by resilience, passion, and unwavering self-belief.

    Avalon shares how she navigated ADHD, anxiety, and severe health issues like mono and chronic bronchitis to chase her dream.

    My favourite quote from Avalon is:

    'My 'why' isn't about being the best in the world but discovering what's possible and becoming the best version of myself.'

    You will also hear from another Canadian phenom, Sam Effah, a two-time Canadian 100m Champion – turned brand marketer at RBC. Sam discusses what RBC is doing with the RBC Training Ground to help Canadian athletes pursue their dreams.

    It's a fantastic episode to share with your entire family.

    To learn more about RBC Training Ground, click here: https://www.rbctrainingground.ca.

  • Emma Beehler - Her Beautiful Autistic Mind. In today's episode of Chatter that Matters, we challenge perceptions about neurodiversity. Society often views neurodiverse individuals through a lens of limitation versus exploration.

    We overlook the extraordinary contributions of neurodiverse minds to our world. From scientific breakthroughs to artistic masterpieces, many of our advancements have been through their unique lens onto our world.

    Joining me are Emma Beehler, a remarkable young woman who is exceptional in math and music and a world-renowned competitive cheerleader, and her parents, Brian and Natalie. Emma offers profound insights into how she views the world and how the world views her.

    Listening to Emma, you'll discover how we can all learn and grow from her insights, why she is a crusader for positive change, and why we value her beautiful autistic mind.

  • Canada. It’s Time. On our country's birthday, I break my show format to discuss what we need to do as a nation to pursue our future. This future is not a distant dream but a reality we must actively shape, marked by purpose, passion, pursuit, and laddering to prosperity and peace.

    I begin the show with my take on Canada and why we need to create a magnetic culture to attract the best and the brightest to stay in Canada and come to Canada to shift from a passive, reactive and negative mindset to one brimming with ambition and destiny.

    Next, we hear from two outstanding Canadians who offer their unique perspectives: John Ruffolo, a leading figure as the founder of Maverick Private Equity and a catalyst for positive change in shaping Canada's new economy, and John Stackhouse, who heads RBC's Economics and Thought Leadership group, influencing the organization's work on economic, technological, and social issues.

    Each offers powerful and profound thoughts on creating the opportunities and standard of living that we need, want and deserve.

    This episode is a must-listen for anyone deeply invested in Canada and its future—and the future of all democracies. It is not only easy to listen to, but it also discusses, shares, and explores a wealth of topics.

    Happy Birthday, Canada. It's time to unwrap our future.