What happens when your career no longer feels safe or aligned? In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, I sit down with a nonprofit leader-turned-consultant, Esther Saehyun Lee, founder of Elevate Philanthropy Consulting who shares what led her to walk away from the traditional 9-to-5 and start her own business rooted in justice, equity, authenticity, and community.

We explore the terrifying and liberating shift to entrepreneurship and the risks embedded in both institutional work and self-employment. Esther opens up about the harm she experienced in previous roles and how that shaped her decision to start her consultancy firm. We also reflect on the power of community and mentorship—and how it's possible to build a profitable, successful business without compromising your values.

From building a business that centers community, to navigating the industrial complex of the nonprofit sector, to staying creative through rest and nature—this episode is a masterclass in disrupting the status quo and staying grounded while doing it. We also dive into:

• Why being your authentic self at work is non-negotiable
• The myth of overnight success and the realities of starting your own business
• Community-centric fundraising and justice-forward leadership
• What it means to be a disruptor in systems not built for you

Whether you’re thinking about striking out on your own or simply dreaming of work that reflects your values—this one’s for you. It’s raw, real, and a reminder that you don’t have to do it alone.

Esther Essay can be read here:

In this thought-provoking episode of #FEMPIRE, we dive deep into the current political climate, examining the rapid shifts happening in both Canada and the U.S. and how they're affecting the nonprofit and fundraising sectors. Our guest, Esther Saehyun Lee, shares her candid perspective that, for her, fundraising isn’t just about money—it needs to be rooted in justice and equity.

Esther dives into the real risks and fears many face when speaking out against these systems, especially in industries where power and wealth are concentrated. She challenges the idea that those advocating for justice are fearless, reminding us that true courage lies in acting despite fear. Esther also reflects on a pivotal moment in her career when she decided to call out systemic racism in a nonprofit organization, offering a powerful example of how speaking your truth can be liberating.

We explore the intersection of activism and fundraising, discussing the tension between serving marginalized communities and navigating institutions that often uphold the very systems of oppression that harm them. Esther’s story is a testament to the resilience and courage it takes to challenge the status quo and push for real change.

Tune in for a raw, insightful, and ultimately hopeful exploration of finding courage, demanding accountability, and reimagining the nonprofit sector's role in the fight for a more equitable world.

This week on #FEMPIRE, I’m joined by Rita Rahmati, an absolute force in government relations and communications. From early days writing for the Western Gazette to leading national advocacy for Canada's building trades unions, she's been at the heart of policy and influence across multiple sectors. Now, as the Director of Communications and Public Affairs at the Canadian Institute of Steel Construction, she's tackling industry advocacy head-on, especially in the face of U.S. tariff uncertainty.

In this episode, we dive into the highs, lows, and complexities of government relations while tackling the unique barriers women face at work—especially in the trades. From workplace discrimination to childcare struggles and even access to proper gear, we’re not holding back.

But it's not just about the challenges! Hear the incredible story of how a dedicated, multi-year campaign secured the Skilled Labour Mobility Tax Deduction – a policy win that brought all major political parties on board to support tradespeople. It’s proof that strategic advocacy and perseverance can pay off, big time!

Beyond the policy talk, we dive into invaluable career advice (hint: network like your career depends on it!), overcoming imposter syndrome, the unique pressures faced by women and daughters of immigrants aiming high, and why feminism, at its core, is about choice. Get ready for an engaging conversation filled with practical wisdom, personal insights, and maybe even a Taylor Swift reference!

In this episode, Alexandra Biron takes us through her journey from a family rooted in community and volunteerism to a career in Corporate Purpose & Sustainability. She shares how the field has evolved to encompass Indigenous reconciliation, and environmental sustainability, highlighting the competitive advantage and talent attraction benefits of purpose-driven work.

Alexandra and Julia dive into key challenges in corporate responsibility, including the need for transparency, impact measurement, and ensuring commitments translate into meaningful action rather than just a PR exercise. They explore how organizations can create inclusive spaces for Indigenous Peoples, the importance of reconciliation strategies, and how businesses can lead with education, intention, and Indigenous leadership.

They also discuss mental health in the workplace, the role of social media in corporate accountability, and the need for broader representation of Indigenous and Black histories in Canadian content. Alexandra shares her work with Indigenous organizations and offers insights on meaningful community engagement.

The episode wraps up with a heartfelt discussion on passion, storytelling, and the power of learning from diverse experiences. Alexandra and Julia reflect on the impact of sharing stories, shifting perspectives, and leading with heart in the journey toward meaningful change.

In this episode, we sit down with Jesse Clarke, a seasoned government funding expert with over 20 years of experience transforming the relationship between charities, nonprofits, and government. From her early days as a federal civil servant to raising over $100 million in government grants for renowned organizations like Right To Play, Pathways to Education, and Save the Children, Jesse brings invaluable insights into the world of government relations and funding strategies.

As the founder of JN Clarke Consulting, a proudly feminist and LGBTQ+ owned firm based in Toronto, Jesse has helped over 40 nonprofit organizations across Canada unlock the power of government partnerships. She shares her journey, her vision for advancing equity and progressive values in the nonprofit sector, and actionable advice for organizations looking to navigate government systems effectively.

In this episode of #FEMPIRE, we’re joined by Allison Venditti, founder of Moms at Work, a game-changing community on a mission to reshape workplace equality for mothers. Allison shares the inspiring story of how she grew Moms at Work from a small Facebook group of 400 followers to a powerhouse community of over 30,000 advocates pushing for real policy change. We dive into the motherhood penalty vs. the fatherhood bonus, pay equity, and explore how feminist nepotism can reshape workplace culture. Allison also discusses her journey behind building a company by women, for women, and how they’re driving the conversation toward more inclusive workplaces and policies. Get ready for a conversation packed with passion, purpose, and powerful insights on how we can create workplaces that work for moms.

In this episode, Julia and Emelia dive into the essential topics of financial literacy, real estate, and investing, offering listeners a window into long-term wealth-building. Uncover the effects of inflation on your finances, the advantages of home ownership, and the importance of understanding your risk tolerance when investing. With a spotlight on actionable strategies, they discuss financial management tools, from savvy budgeting and early saving to the wisdom of seeking professional advice. Emelia underscores the role of social media in making financial discussions more accessible, encouraging listeners to take control of their finances and pursue investment opportunities. The episode wraps up with a discussion on unlocking wealth and future planning, emphasizing the critical importance of making informed investment decisions. Armed with the right knowledge, you hold the power to achieve financial freedom and transform your financial destiny. Don’t miss this opportunity to transform your financial destiny—tune in now!

Welcome to #FEMPIRE the podcast that dives into the fascinating lives of women working in politics, policy, and public affairs. Today’s guest is Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs at Hill & Knowlton, Katherine Feenan.

 From the halls of Parliament Hill to the global stage of policy and elections, join us as we explore Katie’s leadership at the Public Policy Forum, her international work at the National Democratic Institute, and her journey to motherhood. So sit back, relax as we unwrap the tapestry of Katie’s impressive career. 

Welcome to #FEMPIRE the podcast that explores the inspiring stories, challenges, and triumphs of remarkable women who have defied stereotypes and shattered glass ceilings. Join us as we sit down with fearless women leading in politics, corporate boardrooms, STEM, and non-profit organizations. These trailblazers share their unique experiences, insights, and strategies for success. 

#FEMPIRE is your guide to understanding the vital role women play in shaping policy, driving innovation, and leading change. We’ll explore the lessons learned from their battles, the insights gained from their victories, and the importance of empowering the next generation of female leaders. Subscribe now and become part of a community dedicated to amplifying women’s voices in policy and leadership.

Accomplished writer, advocate, and global bridge-builder Mina Sharif takes listeners on a powerful journey in this deeply moving conversation about identity, storytelling, and challenging dominant narratives.

Her new book, Your War, Our Lives: Short Stories of the Afghan Experience, wasn’t born from a publishing plan but from a deeply personal desire to preserve memories and offer counter-narratives to the conflict-driven images of Afghanistan so often portrayed in Western media.

“What I saw missing was what everyday life in Afghanistan looks and feels like,” Sharif shares, explaining how her writing began as cathartic journaling reflecting on her 14 years of living in Kabul. 

After the fall of Afghanistan in 2021, she was invited to speak at countless events — but instead of being asked about her lived experiences, she was met with geopolitical questions rooted in stereotypes. Frustrated, she made it her mission to use storytelling, writing, and art as tools to move beyond the black-and-white narrative of Afghanistan, highlighting its nuance and complexity through lived experiences and everyday stories — not just politics or headlines.

Sharif reflects on how returning to her homeland in 2005 profoundly shaped her understanding of belonging. With disarming honesty, she realized that “avoidance isn’t an option” when it comes to cultural identity — but you do have the autonomy to choose how you explore and engage with it. 

In this episode, we explore the idea of coexistence and Sharif’s experience of “straddling two worlds” — feeling “so Canadian” in Afghanistan, then returning to find herself changed by her years abroad. She offers powerful insights for anyone navigating dual identities: “Maybe it doesn’t mean that I’m without a home,” she reflects. “Maybe it means I have more than one.”

Sharif is also the founder of Sisters 4 Sisters, a nationwide mentorship program for Afghan women and girls that grew out of grassroots community action. 

A prominent voice in the Afghan diaspora, she uses her platform to bridge cultural gaps and deepen understanding of Afghan life. She co-authored The Diaspora Journal, writes The Hyphenated Blog, and has been featured across major publications, TV, podcasts, and radio. Her work continues to shape conversations on conflict-affected communities, women’s rights, and uplifting marginalized voices.

For Mina Sharif, advocacy starts with storytelling. She believes emotional connection leaves a deeper, lasting impact than facts alone — and that everyone’s story deserves to be told.

Listen now to learn why she calls community collaboration “a cheat code” for finding your voice.

Learn more about Mina Sharif and her work here:

https://minasharif.com/ 

https://minasharif.com/your-war-our-lives 

Original illustrations by ArtLords: https://artlords.co/ 

Dr. Daniela Vaca brings an international and revolutionary perspective to plastic surgery, transforming it from a misunderstood field often associated with vanity into a pathway for genuine empowerment and healing. 

Drawing on her clinical research at Harvard Medical School, her experience treating burn victims and breast cancer survivors in Colombia, and her specialized microsurgery training at Toronto General Hospital in Canada, she shows how plastic surgery can be both a medical necessity and a personal choice—each equally valid when approached with care and intention.

Dr. Daniela Vaca is redefining plastic surgery by rejecting the “quick fix” mindset. Early in her career, she saw patients return for repeat liposuction because nothing had changed at the root — their habits, health, and mindset. Determined to make a real, lasting impact, she blended her passion for health, fitness, and wellness into her practice.

Through the Thrive Club wellness program, co-founded with her brother Juan Sebastián, Dr. Vaca creates personalized plans for patients before and after surgery — from nutrition and fitness to mindset coaching. Her philosophy is clear: surgery is just one part of a larger transformation. Sustainable and long term results come when patients commit to changing how they live, not just how they look.

The conversation delves into the artistry of plastic surgery, where Dr. Daniela Vaca balances patients’ aesthetic goals with medical safety while honoring each patient's unique body structure. She passionately debunks common misconceptions, particularly the false dichotomy between acceptance and enhancement. "If you're working on yourself, going to therapy, have good relationships...but don't like something about yourself, why not get that change?" she asks, challenging the notion that seeking physical enhancement automatically signals insecurity or superficiality.

Looking toward the future, Dr. Daniela Vaca shares exciting technological developments in the field—from AI-assisted surgical planning to advanced tissue engineering and improved breast implant technology that reduces inflammation. These innovations promise to make plastic surgery safer and more personalized while maintaining natural-looking results.

Whether you're considering plastic surgery or simply curious about this often-misunderstood field, this conversation offers invaluable insights into how female surgeons are redefining beauty standards and patient care. 

Learn more about Dr. Daniela Vaca and her work here:

https://www.danielavacamd.com/en/about

https://www.thriveclub.info/en 

https://www.facebook.com/p/Dra-Daniela-Vaca-Grisales-100088033115275/ 

https://www.youtube.com/@Danielavacagrisales 

The nonprofit world has a problem. Behind the mission statements about doing good lurks a troubling reality for many Black professionals—a world where they're expected to leave their authentic selves at the door just to survive.

Nneka Allen, founder of the Empathy Agency Inc. and co-author and editor of Collecting Courage, joins us for a conversation that cuts straight to the heart of racism in supposedly progressive spaces. When George Floyd's murder sparked widespread outrage, many Black people weren't shocked—they were watching white communities finally wake up to what they'd always known. As Allen eloquently explains, "If we reacted to every instance of racial violence we witnessed or experienced, we would be unwell." This powerful observation reveals how Black professionals develop survival mechanisms to function in a society where racial violence is commonplace, while also highlighting the severe mental health toll this constant vigilance exacts.

Allen also addresses the backlash against "wokeness" with startling clarity. "What's the opposite of woke?" she asks. "Blissful ignorance. Being asleep at the wheel." In exploring how organizations claim to be inclusive while maintaining white power structures, Allen challenges institutions that are "happy to have a Black caucus" but unwilling to fundamentally shift their culture. True change, she argues, requires more than diversity initiatives—it demands a redistribution of power.

Perhaps most moving is Allen's personal journey of rediscovering love for her Blackness while working and engaging with primary documents at a museum preserving the Underground Railroad history in Amherstburg, Ontario. Standing in spaces where her ancestors hid while seeking freedom, she experienced a profound connection that continues to fuel her activism today. "I feel like I must match their courage," she reflects, reminding us that understanding and embracing our history can be a powerful catalyst for creating change. 

This episode is more than a wake-up call—it’s a testament to the power of storytelling, truth-telling, and reclaiming identity. Through personal reflection, ancestral history, and unflinching honesty, Nneka reminds us that the path to justice isn’t just about systems—it’s about spirit. And when we ground ourselves in where we come from, we begin to imagine where we can go.

Nneka Allen opens our conversation with a profound declaration: she's a "reluctant entrepreneur" whose path to founding the Empathy Agency Inc emerged from confronting the very real inequities Black people face within the charitable sector. As a proud descendant of African survivors of the Transatlantic Slave Trade, her perspective comes from personal history and professional experience spanning over two decades.

What makes this episode particularly compelling is Nneka’s ability to express complex ideas about race with clarity, conviction, and unfiltered truth—especially when she says, “Black women are ground zero in times of crisis, and when white people feel pain, Black people pay the price.” She introduces the concept of “brave spaces” rather than “safe spaces” for conversations about racism, explaining that these dialogues are inherently uncomfortable and risky—but necessary for growth. She also shares the intention behind her bi-weekly Afro-centric gathering, Exhale for Black Women, where Black women can come together without navigating white judgment or expectations, particularly as employment conditions become increasingly precarious.

Perhaps most revealing is Nneka's challenge to Canada's carefully cultivated international image. While many Canadians pride themselves on multiculturalism and distance themselves from America's racial problems, Nneka methodically dismantles this narrative in our conversation and in her co-authored book, Collecting Courage. She explains how Canada's 200-year history of slavery has been effectively erased through marketing campaigns. Unlike America's current attempts to suppress a documented history through attacks on critical race theory, Canada faces a different challenge—profound ignorance about its own racist past.

The power of storytelling emerges as a central theme throughout our conversation. Collecting Courage features first-person accounts from Black fundraisers across North America, documenting experiences that challenge the presumed moral superiority of charitable organizations. As she powerfully states, "First-person narratives are the stuff of history"—and control over these narratives shapes public understanding.

Does empathy have limits when confronting systemic racism? Can conflict actually strengthen relationships? How do we recognize when "respect" and "professionalism" are being weaponized to silence necessary conversations? These questions and more await in this thought-provoking episode.

Listen now and join us for part two, where we'll explore activism in the social media age and hear Nneka's moving story of walking in her ancestors' footsteps.

Follow Nneka's work:

Website: https://www.theempathyagency.ca/meet-the-founder

Bsky: https://bsky.app/profile/nnekaallen.bsky.social

Substack: https://substack.com/@nnekaallen

Ellen Kushnick pulls back the curtain on Canadian politics with rare candor, sharing insights from her years as a strategic powerhouse on Parliament Hill. From the adrenaline rush of managing swing riding campaigns to the delicate art of crafting policy that truly serves communities, her stories reveal how meaningful political change actually happens.

The conversation takes us through Ellen's most powerful career moments, including her work developing mental health strategies for first responders and advocating for First Nations communities. Human connections, Ellen argues, are what ultimately create effective policy.

As both a mother and political staffer, Ellen navigated the demanding 24/7 world of politics while raising young children. She describes the pivotal moment when her daughter's teacher didn't recognize her at school pickup, prompting her to reevaluate her priorities and seek a career that offered a better work life balance. This balance became central to her work with Moms at Work, where she now advocates and has conversations with others about creating workplaces that support women's career advancements while acknowledging family responsibilities.

Ellen offers a nuanced perspective on how technology and social media have transformed Canadian politics—democratizing voices while simultaneously creating echo chambers that prevent meaningful dialogue. For those considering careers in politics or policy, her advice is refreshingly direct: jump in and learn by doing, as the hands-on experience reveals strengths you might not even know you have.

Ready to hear more perspectives from women navigating the world of politics and policy? Subscribe to #Fempire for conversations that go beyond the headlines to reveal the human stories behind political change.

Hunger doesn't discriminate, but our systems often do. In 2024, Statistics Canada reported that 10 million Canadians — including 2.5 million children — lived in households that couldn’t reliably afford food. That’s families skipping meals, parents making impossible choices, and children going to school hungry in one of the world's wealthiest nations.

And while food insecurity touches every province, it cuts even deeper in the territories. In Nunavut, nearly half the population struggles with access to food. In the Northwest Territories and Yukon, it's more than 1 in 5. These numbers don’t just tell us who’s missing meals — they tell us who’s being left behind economically.

Because food insecurity isn't just about food. It’s a red flag for deeper financial distress — households choosing between rent, medication, heat, or a week of groceries. It’s a symptom of poverty — and a signal for policy failure.

Jasmine Ramze Rezaee, Director of Policy and Community Action for Community Food Centres Canada, joins us to challenge conventional wisdom about hunger and food insecurity in Canada. With passion and precision, she dismantles the myth that food insecurity is simply about food. "Food insecurity is not a food problem," she explains, "it's an income problem." This critical distinction shapes everything about how we should respond to this growing crisis.

The conversation takes us beyond emergency food relief to examine the structural forces creating hunger: stagnant wages, skyrocketing living costs, and inadequate social support systems that effectively "legislate poverty." We explore how traditional approaches like food banks, while necessary, cannot solve the underlying issues alone. Instead, Ramsey-Razai presents a compelling case for policy solutions like a new Groceries and Essentials Benefit, $150 per adult, $50 per child, that would provide direct financial support to 9 million struggling Canadians.

Perhaps most powerful is her framing of food security as fundamental to democracy itself. "Rising inequality, rising poverty, and rising food insecurity does and will undermine democracy," she warns. By connecting hunger to our broader social contract, she reveals how addressing food insecurity isn't just about feeding people – it's about the kind of society we want to build.

Whether you're concerned about poverty, inequality, or the future of our democratic institutions, this episode offers both sobering insights and practical pathways forward. Listen now to understand why hunger persists in Canada and what meaningful solutions might look like.

Check out Jasmine Ramze Rezaee and Community Food Centres Canada’s policy recommendations here:

https://act.beyondhunger.ca/page/66634/action/1 

What good are human rights if you’re always hungry? We need a new benefit for groceries and essentials: https://www.thestar.com/opinion/contributors/what-good-are-human-rights-if-youre-always-hungry-we-need-a-new-benefit-for/article_0c7c92e8-b3fc-11ef-b2ca-0f7c0e42a2db.html 

Food insecurity sources: 

https://proof.utoronto.ca/food-insecurity/ 

What does it really take to advocate for over 100 municipalities across Eastern Ontario while breaking barriers as a woman in government relations? Meredith Staveley-Watson opens up about her journey from volunteer to becoming Director of Government Relations and Policy at the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus (EOWC). 

Meredith, affectionately known as "Municipal Meredith" during her Masters of Public Administration at Queen’s University, reveals why she chose to focus on local government when others pursued federal or provincial paths. Her passion for municipal work stems from its direct impact on communities and the incredible diversity of issues – from infrastructure and finance to social services and even cemetery management. This conversation pulls back the curtain on what government relations and municipal governance actually entails. 

The financial challenges facing municipalities take center stage as Meredith highlights a fundamental imbalance in our governance structure—one that dates back over a century to the original division of power and funding. Local governments are responsible for the majority of public infrastructure and social programs, yet they receive the smallest share of tax dollars—and unlike other levels of government, they’re not allowed to run deficits.

This burden hits rural communities the hardest, where fewer residents must maintain the same kilometers of road as densely populated urban areas. Meredith’s advocacy at the EOWC—alongside other municipalities—for a “new financial framework” presents a compelling vision for sustainable, long-term funding for local governance and services. 

Perhaps most powerful is Meredith’s discussion of women’s leadership in municipal politics. In 2025, for the first time, all heads of Ontario’s municipal organizations are women—many of whom are championing initiatives like "Elect Respect" to create safer, more inclusive spaces for women in elected office and public service.

We also dive into the power of mentorship and networking, the importance of asking for what you want, how volunteering where you're passionate can open doors, and why visualizing your success—right down to the power suit—is a crucial ingredient in the recipe for achieving it.

Like what you heard? Check out these resources: 

About the Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus: Homepage - EOWC

Eastern Ontario Wardens’ Caucus Advocacy: EOWC Communications - EOWC

Elect Respect: Elect Respect — A Pledge to Restore Civility in the Public Square

AMCTO Mentorship Program: Mentorship Program | AMCTO (Mentorship open until August 8 for 2025-2026 cohort)

Ontario’s Municipal Leadership Shines on International Women’s Day 2025: Ontario’s Municipal Leadership Shines on International Women’s Day - EOWC

Federation of Canadian Municipalities: Stronger Together | Federation of Canadian Municipalities

Association of Municipalities of Ontario: Home | AMO

What if your hands in the dirt could change your relationship with the Earth? Environmental scientist, Destiny Allen-Green invites us to reconnect with nature through a revolutionary approach to gardening that transforms how we view our place in the natural world.

Destiny Allen-Green is a proud Black Afro-Métis daughter of The Underground Railroad and the First Peoples of Turtle Island. She is an environmental scientist by trade and a farmer by experience, but maybe not in the traditional way you might be picturing.

Just as Destiny’s ancestors tended to the lands of Turtle Island for generations carrying their Indigenous wisdom across oceans, she too seeks to be in a deep and respectful relationship with the land. With farming roots that stretch across both sides of her family, Destiny proudly identifies as a small-scale, unconventional farmer. Her mission is to help others discover the joys of “everyday farming” as a powerful way to connect with the land, with themselves, and with our shared stories.

Destiny shares her journey from a child fascinated with soil, to pursuing a Masters degree in Land and Water Systems, to co-founding F.A.R.M.E.R.S (Future Agrarians Reciprocity Movement for Earth, Relationships, and Story), a branch of The Empathy Agency Inc.

F.A.R.M.E.R.S was founded by Destiny and her fellow environmental scientist and friend, Maia Somers, with a vision to reclaim and challenge traditional ideas of what farming looks like and who gets to participate. Together, they’ve created programs that help people, regardless of space or experience, develop personalized approaches to gardening and farming that transform how we connect to the natural world.

At the heart of this conversation lies a powerful idea: when we stop viewing the land as a commodity and start recognizing our deep interdependence with natural systems, our behavior naturally shifts toward greater care and responsibility. Expressions of environmental stewardship, when practiced collectively, can generate profound, lasting impact.

Destiny challenges the notion that you need acres of land, years of experience, or complicated crops to be considered a farmer. Instead, she invites us to see growing food as a gift, one that can nourish both our bodies and the environment, no matter where or how we begin.

Destiny’s approach to environmental justice includes universal access to gardening and farming, and helps us rediscover our place in "one collective story" of environmental stewardship.

For those feeling overwhelmed by climate challenges, Destiny offers this perspective: "Don't focus on the scale of the problem, but on what you can contribute to the solution." This practical wisdom reminds us that hope lies in wielding whatever power we have, however small it might seem.

Ready to get your hands in the dirt? Check out F.A.R.M.E.R.S to begin your own journey of reconnection with the natural world.

Learn more about F.A.R.M.E.R.S here: 

Website: https://www.theempathyagency.ca/farmers

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/t.e.a_f.a.r.m.e.r.s?igsh=eWM2ZzVpcHdrMXdl&utm_source=qr

Substack: https://teafarmers.substack.com

Blog 1: https://teafarmers.substack.com/p/seeds-of-justice-answering-change?r=5b3048

Blog 2: https://teafarmers.substack.com/p/join-us-in-the-garden?r=5b3048

What if your hands in the dirt could change your relationship with the Earth? Environmental scientist, Destiny Allen-Green invites us to reconnect with nature through a revolutionary approach to gardening that transforms how we view our place in the natural world.

Destiny Allen-Green is a proud Black Afro-Métis daughter of The Underground Railroad and the First Peoples of Turtle Island. She is an environmental scientist by trade and a farmer by experience, but maybe not in the traditional way you might be picturing.

Just as Destiny’s ancestors tended to the lands of Turtle Island for generations carrying their Indigenous wisdom across oceans, she too seeks to be in a deep and respectful relationship with the land. With farming roots that stretch across both sides of her family, Destiny proudly identifies as a small-scale, unconventional farmer. Her mission is to help others discover the joys of “everyday farming” as a powerful way to connect with the land, with themselves, and with our shared stories.

Destiny shares her journey from a child fascinated with soil, to pursuing a Masters degree in Land and Water Systems, to co-founding F.A.R.M.E.R.S (Future Agrarians Reciprocity Movement for Earth, Relationships, and Story), a branch of The Empathy Agency Inc.

F.A.R.M.E.R.S was founded by Destiny and her fellow environmental scientist and friend, Maia Somers, with a vision to reclaim and challenge traditional ideas of what farming looks like and who gets to participate. Together, they’ve created programs that help people, regardless of space or experience, develop personalized approaches to gardening and farming that transform how we connect to the natural world.

At the heart of this conversation lies a powerful idea: when we stop viewing the land as a commodity and start recognizing our deep interdependence with natural systems, our behavior naturally shifts toward greater care and responsibility. Expressions of environmental stewardship, when practiced collectively, can generate profound, lasting impact.

Destiny challenges the notion that you need acres of land, years of experience, or complicated crops to be considered a farmer. Instead, she invites us to see growing food as a gift, one that can nourish both our bodies and the environment, no matter where or how we begin.

Destiny’s approach to environmental justice includes universal access to gardening and farming, and helps us rediscover our place in "one collective story" of environmental stewardship.

For those feeling overwhelmed by climate challenges, Destiny offers this perspective: "Don't focus on the scale of the problem, but on what you can contribute to the solution." This practical wisdom reminds us that hope lies in wielding whatever power we have, however small it might seem.

Ready to get your hands in the dirt? Check out F.A.R.M.E.R.S to begin your own journey of reconnection with the natural world.

Learn more about F.A.R.M.E.R.S here: 

Website: https://www.theempathyagency.ca/farmers

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/t.e.a_f.a.r.m.e.r.s?igsh=eWM2ZzVpcHdrMXdl&utm_source=qr

Substack: https://teafarmers.substack.com

Blog 1: https://teafarmers.substack.com/p/seeds-of-justice-answering-change?r=5b3048

Blog 2: https://teafarmers.substack.com/p/join-us-in-the-garden?r=5b3048

The road to entrepreneurial success is rarely straight, especially when you're navigating industries that haven't traditionally welcomed women behind the wheel. In this episode of #FEMPIRE, I sit down with Jessi Kessel and Farah Mohammed, the innovative leaders behind Beepzz – a groundbreaking automotive recruitment and talent platform challenging industry norms.

Jessie, co-founder of Beepzz, shares how her two-decade journey through various automotive roles led to identifying a crucial gap in specialized recruitment. Born during the pandemic when businesses needed to adapt quickly, Beepzz emerged as more than just a staffing agency – it's a comprehensive community platform connecting professionals across the automotive ecosystem with a remarkable 94% placement success rate. 

As Director of Partnerships and Media Relations at Beepzz, Farah’s story is just as compelling—driven by a persistent “itch” for something more, even with the comfort of a secure 15-year government career. Her bold leap into entrepreneurship is a powerful reminder that trusting your instincts, even when fear is present, can lead to the most fulfilling and impactful paths.

What makes this conversation particularly valuable is their practical wisdom about entrepreneurship's realities. From testing business concepts before full launch to understanding when to wear multiple hats versus when to hire, they offer candid insights about building something meaningful. Both women emphasize becoming "a person of value" with transferable skills that transcend economic uncertainties – a philosophy that's helped them navigate industry shifts from digitization to potential tariff and trade war disruptions.

Perhaps most powerfully, they dismantle the myth that automotive careers are limited to mechanics or sales. The industry offers diverse opportunities across marketing, communications, HR, finance, and technology – with growing demand for women's perspectives and leadership. 

Whether you're considering entrepreneurship, exploring career changes, or simply need inspiration to follow that persistent "itch" for something more, this episode proves that with research, resilience, and the right network, you can build something revolutionary in even the most unexpected industries. As Jessi reminds us, "nobody wins alone" – it's the relationships we build along the way that ultimately elevate us to success.

Check out BEEPZZ here: https://www.beepzz.ca/

Welcome back to #FEMPIRE. Today’s guest is a powerhouse in the nonprofit world—shaking things up with bold ideas, lived experience, and a strategic vision for change. Maria Rio is the founder of Further Together, a fundraising consulting firm she launched in 2023. But her story doesn’t start there.

Maria came to Canada as a refugee, and her early experiences with charitable services sparked a lifelong commitment to equity, community, and transformative nonprofit work. From her first days as a face-to-face fundraiser back in 2011 to leading development and communications at small and mid-sized nonprofits, Maria has seen it all—and she’s not afraid to challenge the status quo.

Throughout her fundraising roles, Maria encountered persistent roadblocks to implementing equity-driven approaches: boards fixated on exclusive galas, leaders resistant to strong social stances, and organizations benefiting from her social justice expertise while rejecting anything deemed "too political." 

What makes Maria’s approach truly transformative is her deep understanding of both nonprofit leadership and donor behavior. Through thoughtful, tailored fundraising strategies, she empowers donors and board members with knowledge—inviting them into conversations about wealth hoarding, white supremacy, and systemic inequity. Rather than encouraging performative giving, Maria helps stakeholders understand the why behind their generosity, shifting the focus from simply “throwing money at a problem” to fostering informed, values-driven impact.

Perhaps most powerfully, Maria challenges the entire food bank model, questioning arrangements that benefit grocery corporations through tax receipts and waste disposal while sometimes providing unsuitable products to vulnerable communities. "If I wouldn't feed it to myself," she explains, "we're not going to hand it out." This dignity-centered perspective informs everything from her storytelling techniques to her social media strategy recommendations.

As political divisiveness threatens vulnerable communities, Maria calls on nonprofits to speak boldly rather than retreat to "safer" charitable approaches. Her definition of success centers on operationalizing values – piloting a four-day workweek, providing free educational resources, and creating spaces for authentic conversation about challenging topics. 

Connect with Maria and explore her Community-Centric Fundraising approach at Further Together, where old nonprofit playbooks are being rewritten with knowledge, justice and equity at their core.

Quick heads up: This episode contains discussions of workplace harassment, bullying, and sexual harassment, including personal accounts. Listener discretion is advised. Please take care while listening.

Have you ever wondered why workplace harassment persists despite all the policies, training, and public commitments to change? The answer lies in power dynamics and how organizations respond when harm occurs.

Liz LeClair, founder of Uprising Consulting, joins #Fempire to unpack the critical issues surrounding power, accountability, and the misuse of non-disclosure agreements to silence victims of abuse. Together, we explore the concept of "boundary-spanning roles" – positions like fundraisers, nurses, and servers where employees serve as conduits between organizations and the public. What's striking is how harassment statistics remain nearly identical across these sectors, pointing to a universal problem with power imbalances.

While we may never eliminate these power dynamics inherently embedded in institutions and job roles, organizations can transform how they respond when incidents occur. Currently, most institutions fail at this crucial moment – fighting survivors rather than supporting them, forcing NDAs that tie financial compensation to silence, and refusing to offer genuine apologies or meaningful accountability.

Prince Edward Island made history by passing legislation restricting the misuse of NDAs in workplace harassment cases, but four years later, no other Canadian province has followed suit. Why? Because we continue prioritizing institutional protection over survivor justice. Liz believes that leaders lack training in humility and restorative practices, focusing instead on defending reputations and minimizing liability – often at tremendous personal cost to those harmed.

For survivors navigating these broken systems, community building emerges as a powerful path forward. Finding others who understand your experience provides validation that institutions often fail to offer. 

Listen now for an unfiltered conversation about power, accountability, and creating workplaces where justice and supporting victims isn't just a policy, but a lived reality.

Quick heads up: This episode contains discussions of workplace harassment, bullying, and sexual harassment, including personal accounts. Listener discretion is advised. Please take care while listening.

What does it really mean to speak truth to power—and what do you risk when you do? For Liz LeClair, founder of Uprising Consulting, the cost was becoming “unhireable” in Halifax, Nova Scotia. After coming forward and speaking out about the sexual harassment she experienced in her workplace, she found herself sidelined by the very organizations that once praised her courage for speaking out. 

In this episode, Liz shares her deeply personal story—one that lays bare how institutions often protect power over people. Instead of staying silent, she made the courageous decision to speak out, report the harassment, and pursue legal action because the institution she turned to refused to act. In doing so, she carved out a new path, creating a business and a space where she could speak freely and work alongside people who know her values and stand with her.

Through her consulting practice, Liz is committed to shifting power, championing equity and justice, and supporting underserved communities through community-centric fundraising—helping them access the tools and resources they need to advance their causes. She also serves on the board of the African American Development Officers Network (AADO) as its only Canadian member.

Most powerfully, Liz sheds light on the weaponization of non-disclosure agreements (NDAs), originally designed to protect intellectual property but now routinely used to silence victims of harassment, discrimination, and assault. 

This episode exposes the "halo effect" surrounding nonprofit organizations—the dangerous assumption that because they do good work, they're incapable of causing harm. Liz challenges the culture of "niceness" that pervades female-dominated workplaces and reveals how second-wave white feminism often replicates, rather than dismantles patriarchal power structures.

Liz shares that while speaking out carries real costs, it also brings unexpected gifts: clarity about who truly shares your values, freedom to speak your truth, and the opportunity to create spaces where others can do the same.

Yes, there’s fear in speaking out. There’s pain in institutional betrayal. But there’s also liberation in choosing integrity over quiet complicity. This isn’t just a conversation. It’s a call to action.

This episode is part one of a two-part series, so be sure to tune in to Part 2, where Liz and I continue our conversation on the misuse of non-disclosure agreements in workplace harassment and sexual assault cases. We explore the power of speaking up, what advocacy and feminism look like today, and how some governments are beginning to address NDAs—though there's still a long way to go.

Join us for this thought-provoking exploration of courage, truth-telling, and creating change when systems fail us.

Check out Liz LeClair's work:

Website: https://www.uprisingconsulting.ca/

Substack: https://uprisingphilanthropy.substack.com/