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I first met Sim Seera in the green room of a Canadian television station. She has such positive energy. We were both early for our appearances, so we used the time to talk and get to know each other. I liked her immediately, and when she told me her story, I knew I had to share it on Chatter That Matters. This show has additional notes. Instead of taping this interview from my home studio, we chose a unique setting in front of a packed house at the Convenience Industry Council of Canada's annual summit. It was an unexpected twist that added a new dimension to our conversation.
This is Sim's story of tragedy and heartache, the people she met along the way who helped her get to where she is today.
Sim says in the podcast,
"When the student is ready, the teacher will appear."
Her resilience in the face of such adversity is truly inspiring.
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This week on Chatter that Matters, we explore the profound impact of our surroundings on our health, emotions, and overall well-being. World-renowned architect and thought leader Tye Farrow joins me to discuss how our spaces can elevate our lives, offering more than shelter.
Tye shares insights from his groundbreaking book, Constructing Health, in which he integrates neuroscience with architecture to advocate for salutogenic design—a transformative approach that fosters well-being. From the inspiration of his architect father to his work on major global projects, like a revolutionary cancer centre in Israel, Tye takes us on a journey through his career, highlighting how thoughtful design can be more than a place to be; it can be a place to be healthy, creative and connected.
Tye shares how we can construct health through specific, measurable design qualities and characteristics to enhance human performance in our cities, homes, and places of learning and healing. This includes intergenerational housing that fosters community.
Leah Robinson from RBC joins the show to talk about how financial institutions must, too, march towards a future to provide innovative solutions to homeowners.
To purchase Tye Farrow's best-selling book Constructing Health: https://www.amazon.ca/Constructing-Health-Built-Environment-Enhances/dp/1487557221
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Have you ever watched a movie that lingered in your thoughts long after the credits rolled? That’s exactly how I felt after sitting down with Mitchell Cohen. Many share this sentiment as Mitchell is a true Renaissance man—a thinker, doer, musician, and composer. His mesmerizing cadence makes every moment spent listening to him an absolute delight.
Mitchell has devoted much of his life to addressing one of Canada’s most pressing challenges: affordable housing.
Mitchell's influence is immense as the CEO of The Daniels Corporation, one of the country’s leading builders and developers. His focus isn’t just on constructing buildings; it’s on creating thriving communities. Take Regent Park in Toronto—once a neighbourhood many avoided, it’s now a city's crown jewel. Mitchell’s vision and dedication have transformed it into a place where people want to live, work, and connect, and the project is now a model for city planners worldwide.
I encourage you to share Mitchell’s story with young adults. It’s an inspiring reminder of the power of purpose—how aligning your passions with a meaningful pursuit can shape your life and leave a lasting legacy for others.
To purchase Mitchell Cohen's book Rhythms of Change - Reflections on the Regent Park Revitalization: https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/rhythms-of-change-reflections-on-the-regent-park-revitalization/9781774585054.html
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One of our great behavioural scientists, the bestselling author of Behave, dives to the depths of the science and the philosophy of decision-making to mount a devastating case against free will, an argument with profound consequences. After listening, ask yourself, what side are you on?
Are we indeed the masters of our fate, or is free will nothing more than an illusion? In this week’s episode, I sit down with renowned neuroscientist and Stanford professor Dr. Robert Sapolsky to explore the provocative ideas from his groundbreaking book, Determined: A Science of Life Without Free Will.
Sapolsky argues that our choices—from our morning coffee to major life decisions—are entirely shaped by biology and environment, leaving no room for free will. We dive into the science behind human behaviour, the randomness of life, and the implications of viewing ourselves as “biological machines.”
This thought-provoking conversation challenges everything we think we know about accountability, morality, and transformation. Can we truly change? How do we raise children in a world without free will? And could letting go of the notion of free will make the world a more compassionate place?
From personal anecdotes about Sapolsky’s early questioning of faith and free will to his fascinating insights into human biology and culture, this episode will leave you questioning whether you are truly in control—or just along for the ride.
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Imagine being Suzanne Heywood, a seven-year-old girl who must abandon all she knows: friends, school, home and surroundings because her parent's dream is to spend three years sailing across the globe, retracing the route of Captain James Cook. Three years turned into a decade and a living nightmare aboard the Wavewalker-A 70-foot sailboat boat, often shared with strangers to help fund the trip.
The family encounters violent storms and life-threatening injuries, and for Suzanne emotional abandonment, and isolation even within her family. Yet, amidst the chaos, she found solace and determination in education, meticulously crafting her lifeline to escape-a true and powerful story of trauma to triumph, resilience and reclamation.
To purchase Suzanne'e book, https://www.amazon.com/Wavewalker-Memoir-Breaking-Suzanne-Heywood-ebook/dp/B0BZK87N22
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This is the extraordinary true story of Tier One Special Forces soldier, adventurer, and world-record breaker Dean Stott. In a gripping retelling of his story, Dean shares insight into his esteemed military career in the British Army, where he conducted deployments to hostile environments, worked within counterterrorism operations in some of the most dangerous places in the world, and survived a horrific parachute accident.
Stott discloses how he continued to fuel his journey of excellence by starting a high-risk security company and becoming the first man to cycle the Pan American Highway in under one hundred days, and raising over a million dollars to support his friend Prince Harry's efforts with mental health awareness charities.
Dean Stott offers an inspiring reminder that we all have the capability to use our inner voices, drive, and instincts to become relentless in our pursuits in life.
A fantastic episode to share with 16+ as Dean’s lessons resonate with all:
You can’t control the uncontrollable—but you can choose how you react to life’s challenges.
Failure is just experience—as long as you learn and grow, there’s no such thing as losing.
Actions speak louder than words—if you believe in something, let your actions be the proof.
To buy Dean's book, Relentless, https://www.amazon.com/Relentless-Special-Operations-Record-Breaker/dp/1665725176
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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"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
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Have you ever wondered what it was like to raise Beyoncé 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’Oréal and Pepsi played in Beyoncé'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 cancerTo learn more about Mathew Knowles, https://www.mathewknowles.com/
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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
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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
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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
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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)
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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.
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