Life By Design – Details, episodes & analysis

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Life By Design

Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe

Education

Health & Fitness

Frequency: 1 episode/6d. Total Eps: 81

Welcome to Life by Design with Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe. This podcast is a space for real conversations about well-being, resilience, performance, leadership, and everyday life – and how the small choices you make each day shape the quality of your life. Living a big, beautiful life isn’t reserved for a select few; it’s built in the ordinary moments, the routines that ground us, the acts of self-care that restore us, and the intentional decisions that align us with what matters most. Each week, we take big ideas and turn them into practical habits, tools, and practices you can actually use. Those everyday choices are what allow you to be steady, capable, and even extraordinary when life calls on you. If you’re ready to be intentional about how you show up, what you prioritize, and the life you’re building over time, you’re in the right place. Together, we’ll explore what it truly takes to live well and be well by design. We’re so glad you’re here.

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It’s Never Too Late to Build a Comeback with Brad Jensen

Season 2 · Episode 70

Wednesday, January 21, 2026 • Duration 51:05

In this week’s episode, marking the start of Season 2, Dr. Robyne is joined by fitness and nutrition coach, business owner, and podcast host Brad Jensen, also known as The Sober Bodybuilder, for a grounded conversation at the intersection of physical wellness, mental health, and human resilience.

Brad shares openly about his decade-long struggle with addiction, how hitting rock bottom became a turning point, and the role fitness played in his recovery and sustained sobriety as he rebuilt his life from the ground up.

Together, they explore the dangers of wellness misinformation, the deeper reasons we pursue health and well-being, and why beginning the day with simple rituals that nourish the mind, body, and spirit can help us show up more fully for ourselves and for the people who are counting on us.

Filled with honest reflections and moments of levity, this episode is a reminder that transformation is possible. Whether you’re starting over for the first time or the thirtieth, hope, joy, and purpose can be rebuilt, one intentional day at a time.

Listener note: This episode includes discussion of addiction, substance use, and recovery. Some listeners may find this content sensitive.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• That personal comebacks are possible

• It’s never too late to start fresh or build something meaningful

• Why humor is a powerful part of resilience

• What it can look like to support a loved one navigating addiction and recovery

• Why fulfillment and happiness cannot be found solely through external achievements

• The risks of health trends and misinformation on social media

• Real, rooted reasons to pursue fitness and well-being

• How morning rituals that nourish the mind, body, and spirit help you show up better for yourself and those counting on you

***

Pre-order your copy of I Hope So (releasing February 10, 2026) by visiting https://drrobyne.ca/hope/

Additional Resources:

• Brad’s Podcast: The Brad Jensen Show

• Past episode mentioned: Leadership and Resilience from the Inside Out with Mark Divine

• Dublin City University study on social media health and wellness trends

Get in Touch with Brad:

• Website: https://becomenextlevel.com/coaches/brad/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoberbodybuilder/

Get in Touch with Dr. Robyne:

• Watch episodes on YouTube

• Get Dr. Robyne's book: Calm Within The Storm

• Get Dr. Robyne’s book: Stress Wisely

• Pre-order Dr. Robyne’s book: I Hope So

• Join Dr. Robyne’s Stress Wisely Labs

• Follow Dr. Robyne on Instagram

• Follow Dr. Robyne's LinkedIn

• Visit Drrobyne.ca

• Sign up to receive new episodes to your inbox every week

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Why Self-Leadership Starts with Knowing and Living Your Values with Heather Younger

Episode 69

Wednesday, January 14, 2026 • Duration 44:12

In this week’s episode, Dr. Robyne is joined by workplace culture expert, founder and CEO of Employee Fanatix, author, and keynote speaker Heather R. Younger for an uplifting conversation about leadership, hope, and well-being.

Together, they explore the importance of aligning actions with core values, holding yourself accountable with compassion, and moving from "waiting for permission” to becoming your own green light. They unpack the hidden costs of social comparison and how reframing comparison into celebration can invite learning, connection, and collaboration. Their conversation also highlights the power of intentionally choosing hope as a steadying force in uncertain times, creating space for possibility, growth, and purposeful action.

Through real-world stories and actionable insights, this episode offers encouragement and practical ways to cultivate strength, steadiness, and unshakable leadership, so you can show up for yourself and for others at your best.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why self-leadership is the root of caring leadership

• How knowing and living by your values creates alignment

• Why waiting for permission or “a green light” from others can keep us from living and leading fully

• The importance of developing practical self-care routines that enable sustainable performance and leadership

• The distinction between hope and optimism, and why hope is the remedy the world needs right now

• The importance of collaboration and community in personal and professional growth

• Simple mindset shifts and strategies for managing overwhelm, reframing social comparison, and showing up authentically for yourself and those around you

***

Pre-order your copy of I Hope So (releasing February 10, 2026) by visiting https://drrobyne.ca/hope/

What Really Makes a Leader Worth Following with Stephen Shedletzky

Episode 60

Wednesday, November 12, 2025 • Duration 36:04

What does it really mean to be a leader? This week on Resiliency Redefined, Dr. Robyne is joined by Stephen “Shed” Shedletzky—speaker, leadership coach, and author of Speak-Up Culture—for a thought-provoking conversation about what defines leadership in today’s world.

Shed, known for helping leaders build trusting, purpose-driven workplaces where it’s safe and worth it for people to speak up, shares how leadership is less about titles and more about tangible, observable behaviors that inspire genuine followership and foster healthy cultures.

Together, they explore three essential leadership behaviors, the impact of stress, uncertainty, and challenge on leadership, and how real change begins when leaders and teams define and live the behaviors they value most.

Whether you’re leading a small team or navigating a complex organization, this episode is packed with fresh perspectives, candid reflections on the challenges and opportunities of leadership today, and real-world strategies you can put into practice right away.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

A fresh, actionable definition of leadership
Why leadership is about behavior and not all about titles, seniority, or charisma
Three essential behaviors for leaders: decisiveness, compassion, and confidence
Why psychological safety and a speak-up culture aren’t just “nice-to-haves,” but critical for healthier, thriving organizations
How stress, uncertainty, and challenge reveal a leader’s true character
Practical ways teams and organizations can redefine leadership
The pitfalls of promoting high performers into leadership without evaluating for behaviors that truly matter
How to design hiring and onboarding experiences that uncover real-world behaviors and qualities, not just rehearsed answers
What it means to create healthy, not just “strong,” cultures where values are defined, lived, and reinforced at every level

Additional Resources:

by Stephen Shedletzky

Protecting Your Peace and Reimagining Success with Natalie Tysdal

Episode 59

Wednesday, November 5, 2025 • Duration 35:11

In today’s episode, Dr. Robyne welcomes journalist, podcast host, and women’s health advocate Natalie Tysdal for a meaningful conversation about reinvention, fulfillment, and well-being in our fast-paced, technology-driven world.

Natalie shares the courageous story behind leaving a 28-year television news career to create a life rooted in purpose, service, and personal peace. Together, she and Dr. Robyne explore what it takes to reimagine your path when the world says, “You’ve made it,” but your heart says, “I’m not happy.”

They also explore the toll of relentless busyness, the impact of social media and news consumption on our well-being, and practical ways to reclaim your peace—whether that means setting healthy boundaries so you can stay informed without feeling overwhelmed or giving yourself permission to slow down and recover.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in a routine or wondered how to protect your well-being in a world overloaded with information, this episode offers timely, practical wisdom for restoring balance, mindfully engaging with technology, and reconnecting with what matters.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why it’s never too late to reimagine your career and take a leap of faith, even after decades of success in a single field
The importance of self-awareness, honest self-reflection, and support systems in building resiliency and navigating change
Key questions to ask yourself when making major life and career decisions
The hidden costs of constant busyness on your physical, mental, and emotional health
The impact relentless news and digital stimulation can have on your well-being, and how to set boundaries with media and technology
Ways to encourage healthy digital habits and intentional media consumption in teens and children
How intentional breaks, the use of timers, and hands-on activities can jumpstart your recovery and invite presence back into your day
Insights on finding a gentler, more sustainable pace of life and prioritizing what matters most

Additional Resources:

Lessons in Parenting, Performance, and Personal Growth with Alan Stein Jr.

Episode 58

Wednesday, October 29, 2025 • Duration 43:17

This week on Resiliency Redefined, Dr. Robyne sits down with acclaimed performance coach, speaker, and author Alan Stein Jr. for a deeply energizing conversation that’s equal parts practical and inspiring.

Drawing on decades of experience helping athletes and professionals unlock their potential on the court, in the boardroom, and at home, Alan shares how the same habits that drive world-class performance can also lead to deeper fulfillment, joy, and inner peace. His approachable wisdom and self-reflection as a human, a coach, and a parent shine through as he speaks candidly about his own growth journey and what it means to live in alignment.

Together, they explore the value of emotional regulation, why discipline is the true engine behind lasting change, the importance of aligning your daily choices with the person you aspire to become, and what it looks like to model ownership, consistency, and compassion for your children.

Whether you’re focused on meaningful improvement, raising resilient kids, or simply in need of a motivation boost, this episode will empower you to show up with clarity, kindness, and discipline—and keep moving in the right direction.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How high performance insights apply beyond elite sports to everyday life, and why anyone can adopt them
The importance of using emotions as information, not directives
The distinction between motivation and discipline
How aligning daily choices with your long-term goals sets you up for success and self-satisfaction
The power of letting go of self-judgment and comparison, accepting your current starting point, and focusing on small steps forward
Ways to reset, reflect, and intentionally design the future you want, starting today
Parenting insights for raising resilient, self-directed kids, including modeling behavior and emphasizing process over results
Why unconditional love and open, honest communication are crucial in building trust and autonomy with children and teens
Fun insights like Alan’s favorite sports movies and thoughts on basketball’s evolution

Small Practices Rooted in Self-Love with Syd Vaughan

Episode 57

Wednesday, October 22, 2025 • Duration 34:38

In this episode, Dr. Robyne welcomes Syd Vaughan, massage therapist, personal trainer, breathwork facilitator, and a powerhouse in the health and wellness space. Together, they unpack the real hurdles people face when trying to feel better physically, emotionally, and mentally, whether that’s repairing a fractured relationship with movement, cutting through social media myths, or learning to trust their own bodies and inner wisdom again.

Syd and Dr. Robyne explore how sustainable change begins with small, intentional choices and why true healing grows from self-love rather than self-criticism. With Syd’s practical wisdom about fascia, somatic awareness, and nervous system regulation, this conversation offers hope to anyone ready to rebuild safety, strength, and compassion within themselves.

You’ll come away with simple, practical ways to restore connection with your body, calm your nervous system, and build habits grounded in kindness and care.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why feeling better starts with a conscious decision and a curious mindset
How a fractured relationship with movement or self-care can gently be repaired through small, loving habits
The role of kindness and self-compassion in creating real, lasting wellness changes
Strategies for navigating misinformation in the wellness industry
Ways to reconnect with your body and regulate your nervous system
What fascia is, why it matters, and how it’s connected to emotional and physical well-being
How unprocessed emotions can linger in the body
Why movement and breathwork are essential tools for release and healing
The power of holding space for others without fixing, and the value of genuine connection

***

Next Stress Wisely Lab: October 27th, 2025

Join Dr. Robyne for a 90-minute, research-backed experience designed to help you simplify your days, strengthen your boundaries, and start showing up for your life in a healthier, more sustainable way.

There’s a spot waiting for you.

Honoring Yourself and Leading Authentically with Zach Arend

Episode 56

Wednesday, October 15, 2025 • Duration 35:09

This week on Resiliency Redefined, Dr. Robyne is joined by Zach Arend—a former two-time saddle bronc riding champion turned leadership coach and keynote speaker—for a conversation on the real work of learning to lead ourselves first, so we can lead others well.

Drawing from his journey from the rodeo arena to the boardroom, Zach shares a modern approach to self-leadership built on awareness, ownership, and trust. He reveals the hidden traps many high-achievers fall into, what it means to honor both our “inner rider” and “inner horse,” and how reclaiming personal responsibility can spark meaningful change for ourselves and our teams.

Packed with grounded insights and thought-provoking questions like “What are you tolerating?”, this conversation will inspire anyone passionate about growth, building resilient teams, and finding greater fulfillment in work and life.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How to transform adversity into purpose and renewed confidence
Why career advancement without self-leadership can leave even high-performers feeling lost, depleted, or resentful
How self-awareness opens the door to growth
The four modes of the “bridled leader trap” that keep us stuck, and how to break free
Practical ways to honor yourself (balancing intuition and intentional direction) and shift from reaction to ownership
Crucial questions to prompt honest self-reflection and reveal hidden drains on our energy, agency, and team culture
How redefining responsibility through curiosity and self-compassion can change how you lead, work, and live
Why honoring ourselves is foundational to sustainable, authentic leadership

***

Next Stress Wisely Lab: October 27th, 2025

There’s a spot waiting for you.

Choosing Hope Even When It’s Hard

Episode 55

Wednesday, October 8, 2025 • Duration 31:33

In this special episode of Resiliency Redefined, Dr. Robyne shares the heart behind her upcoming book, I Hope So: How to Choose Hope Even When It’s Hard. She reflects on how hope has been a quiet through line in her own life and in the lives of many others—a force that makes showing up possible, even when the world feels heavy. She explains that hope isn’t just wishful thinking but an evidence-based strategy for navigating uncertainty, adversity, and everyday life.

Choosing to live hope-filled is an active practice that builds resilience, fuels healing, and opens us up to the possibility of better days ahead. This episode offers a glimpse into the book and invites us to see hope as a strategy we can all cultivate—for ourselves, our families, and our communities.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How hope became the focus for Dr. Robyne’s upcoming book
The vital role hope plays in everyday resiliency
How hope shows up as the through line in people’s comeback stories and resilience journeys
A glimpse into the origins of hope and the ways it has shaped us
The surprising connection between hope and our physiology
The difference between optimism and hope
How cultivating hope practices can fuel energy, courage, and perseverance, even in hard seasons
The importance of setting healthy boundaries with news consumption
Why it’s okay to “get your hopes up” and how doing so opens new possibilities

***

Pre-order your copy of I Hope So (releasing February 10, 2026) by visiting https://drrobyne.ca/hope/

***

Next Stress Wisely Lab: October 27th, 2025

There’s a spot waiting for you.

Having the Money Conversations That Matter with Mel Abraham

Episode 54

Wednesday, October 1, 2025 • Duration 35:23

Money permeates every part of our lives, and yet it’s often the hardest thing to talk about. In this episode of Resiliency Redefined, Dr. Robyne sits down with CPA, bestselling author, entrepreneur, speaker, and podcast host Mel Abraham for a profoundly honest and empowering conversation about building true financial resiliency rooted in meaningful values and intentional choices.

Together, Dr. Robyne and Mel unpack why money is often the most avoided topic, how this avoidance can silently undermine our well-being and relationships, and what it really takes to start feeling in control, no matter where we are on our financial journey. Mel shares insights into the essential behaviors, habits, and open conversations that can help individuals, couples, and families transform money from a source of stress into a tool for creating the life they envision.

Packed with practical tools, mindset shifts, and heartfelt encouragement, this episode will leave you with clarity, hope, and a renewed sense of agency around your financial future.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

How open conversations around money can strengthen relationships and reduce financial anxiety
Where most couples get stuck with money conversations and how starting with life vision and shared values can transform the way we approach them
Why waiting for the “right time” or “enough money” to get strategic is a trap
The compounding power of small financial choices made consistently over time
Simple, actionable tools (like the four buckets system) to help anyone of any age start building financial resilience
Ways to help young people with financial literacy, see past social media “get rich quick” myths, and stay focused on sustainable wealth
The importance of aligning financial decisions with what matters most so your money becomes a tool for freedom, not a source of fear

***

Next Stress Wisely Lab: October 27th, 2025

Living More Sustainably with Michelle Li

Episode 53

Wednesday, September 24, 2025 • Duration 32:34

How can small choices add up to create meaningful change for our planet and for our own well-being? In this episode, Dr. Robyne welcomes Michelle Li—a renowned Climate Champion, thought leader, keynote speaker, and founder of Clever Carbon—for an eye-opening conversation about practical sustainability and climate optimism.

Michelle shares how her international experiences transformed her understanding of sustainability and why knowing the environmental impact of our everyday actions can help us make more informed choices. They dive into how small, approachable changes like rethinking what we eat, how we shop, and where our waste goes can collectively make a meaningful difference.

At a time when conversations about climate often feel heavy or overwhelming, this conversation offers a refreshing dose of hope, showing us that even in uncertain times, knowledge and simple daily actions can empower us to move forward with confidence.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

The ripple effect of everyday choices and small lifestyle changes—both for your health and the health of the planet
How information and data (like knowing your carbon footprint) empower change without pressure and guilt
Surprising facts about emissions from everyday items
What makes food choices such a powerful lever for climate impact (and why you don’t need to be perfect)
Practical ways to reduce plastic and food waste, and why composting matters more than you might think
How staying informed and data-driven creates resilience and hope in the face of climate anxiety and environmental doom-and-gloom
How collective efforts in sustainability can lead to a brighter future

Additional Resources:

Clever Carbon
Climate Week NYC – September 21-28, 2025
Toronto Climate Week – October 1-3, 2025
Unboxed Market

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Life By Design – Details, episodes & analysis

Podcast details

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