Many of us lately, for a few months now, haven’t been sitting in rush hour traffic and juggling work, errands, carpools and extracurricular activities. Stress levels, aside from the fact we are living through and coming out of a world pandemic, will likely set back in- and maybe we will find we return to the craziness with a new perspective and focus. I know my focus and perspective on life changed a few years ago leaving the world of television behind in search of personal growth and new challenges. My guest today experienced something very similar. Traci Shepheard was enjoying an incredibly successful 20 plus year career in the corporate world. Mingling with celebrities, jetting off to new destinations, travelling, running the show and keeping up with every mover and shaker in her industry. - And then her mission changed, and it really slowed down, down to the point, where breath, a simple breath became her focus. Traci created Meditation Works Mindstream, Canada’s first mobile meditation studio with the mission of sharing the benefits of meditation with Canadians, positively disrupting their day. Traci’s concept gained national exposure when she pulled up to hospital driveways in her iconic Airstream bus during Covid and gave the staff a much-needed reprieve from the craziness inside. 

You can find more information at https://meditationworks.com/

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For many of us- life is still somewhat on pause and for others things only got busier. However, for many professional athletes- life came to an uncomfortable and scary standstill.

Such has been the case for RedBlacks running back Brendan Gillanders. Hand him a hockey stick- and he can shoot, a pair of running shoes and he will spring from the blocks, throw him the football and he’ll run into the endzone- and then celebrate while playing on his guitar- essentially he’s what my friends and I used to call “The Man Of All Seasons”. 

But- that’s not the reason why Brendan Gillanders is joining us on the podcast- this homegrown talent and former Ottawa U Gee Gee’s player and Kinesiology major, is a fan favourite with the CFL's RedBlack. With a season on hold, a life on hold, Brendan is going back to his roots and his education helping others stay on track with their health and wellness goals and giving young athletes an added advantage for their own uncertain futures. We are talking nutrition, fitness and recovery, staying top of mind, on top of your game even when the finish line is not quite known. Our chat goes far beyond athletes and can resonate with even the couch potato :)

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How does living longer while feeling better sound to you?

Ever heard of "Mammal Longevity Research, Carbon Nano-Materials and Nano Antioxidants? Don't worry- neither had I. 

I've brought in the mad scientist himself, Chris Burress, the Founder of SES Research and "My Vital C" to help us understand some ground breaking research that is having a huge impact on the health and wellness scene.

In 1991 Chris’s company became the first company to deliver carbon nanomaterials, much of it was based on Nobel Prize-winning chemistry and research by NASA, proven to significantly increase the lifespan of mammals. With that being said- The supplement ESS60 was born.

We dig deeper into the research, understand the impact of free radicals and learn how the olive oil based C60 is proving to help with sleep, pain, the nervous system, the ageing process and so much more. 

With his incredible background in sport, engineering, oils and gases and even comedy- Chris is quite the guest. He is also the co-host of The SEO Podcast, the most popular internet marketing podcast on iTunes since 2009.

Chris also mentions in the podcast a few free audiobooks- the link is attached to listen with no email required.

https://www.myvitalc.com/livingyourlife/

Also, a coupon code has been set-up,and you can receive a $15 discount on your first order by using the code: livingyourlife

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This week we have one crazy roller coaster ride with mountaineer, entrepreneur, philanthropist and former runaway Shawn Dawson.Shawn became the 8th person in history to climb all seven summits of the world in under two years. He talks about his time on Everest, his passion for climbing, his experience with near death events and his desire to help others through his climbs. His story of transformation from a troublesome, jail bound, runaway kid to being awarded one of the city's "Amazing People Recipients" gives everyone a sense of purpose and the belief that one can always change for the better.

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Cookbook author and nutritionist Shirley Plant is in the hot seat this week. For anyone who deals with food allergies and food intolerance – this podcast is a must! Shirley takes us through the painful and frustrating timeline that people go through in figuring out what ails them. We discuss how life situations, crisis, loss, depression and our environment affect our systems and our health. For any parent looking for tips on foods to help their ADHD kids, look no further! Shirley explains how she has been able to help children and family shift their dynamics through food. She also discusses the process behind writing her two cookbooks and the inspiration behind them. Shirley's story of discovery is quite fascinating, and I hope you enjoy our discussion as much as I did.

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This week, we sit down with Dr. Yousuf Siddiqui, a naturopathic doctor with NutriChem. We hit on a number of different topics, but we focused on digestion which he believes is the foundation of health. We discuss men’s and women’s sexual health along with the exploding world of IV therapy. IV Therapy is quickly becoming a sought after service especially when dealing with adrenal fatigue, IBS, immune function, the list goes on.

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We switch gears this week and sit down with CEO and Founder of Epic Fitness and Lifestyle Stephanie Karlovits. What I love about this podcast is that we hit on so many storylines that connect with people. Climbing our own mountains, business start ups, exercise, movement, functional movement, goal setting, burnouts, the list goes on. We go through some of her favorite exercises, get a few tips on new gadgets and get the real scoop on what “functional movement” really is.

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My podcast this week is with my dear friend Séan McCann. Séan talks candidly about growing up in Newfoundland, the abuse he suffered by a priest as a teenager, the creation of Great Big Sea, his downfall with alcohol and the day he hit rock bottom. From there Séan takes us through the journey of his recovery, of facing his truth and the difficult reality of one needing to “put in the work” when it comes to living one’s truth. We talk about mental health, music as therapy and how his guitar “Old Brown” has been by his side through it all. I realized as well, through a little research that I knew more Great Big Sea songs than I thought and that hearing him play his own songs, with deep meaning, can be incredibly therapeutic. I hope you enjoy the podcast as much as I did. We all battle our own demons, but Séan puts you in a head space to want to find your peace.

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I was incredibly entertained this week while chatting with, chef, sommelier and entrepreneur, Stephen Beckta. My thinking behind bringing him in as a guest was to talk about the relationship we have with food, the food experience, the changing food industry and of course tips from a chef and sommelier. What I found, was that this award-winning restauranteur has an incredibly compelling and entertaining story. He takes us on quite the journey around the world, stopping at a few destinations, following love, women, heartbreak, wine and food. A little luck, a ton of critical failures and the passion to have his own restaurant “family” is what landed him where he is – ranked amongst Canada’s best!

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This week, I speak with Daphne Ballard and boxing coach Scott Whitteker. Scott co-founded the Heart & Crown Presents Fight for the Cure. The event is Ottawa’s only white collar charity boxing gala. All proceeds from the night support the Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation’s unique cancer coaching, clinical trials and ground-breaking cancer research programs. This year, marks a new era as women are stepping into the ring for the first time. Two women, in their 40’s, best friends, mothers and former teammates are going head to head. They have never boxed before nor even considered this as a bucket list item. This story becomes about stepping out of one’s comfort zone and finding the courage to try something different. While Lisa Langevin couldn’t join us for the podcast, her best friend and now boxing rival Daphne Ballard did. We dive into the training and transformation of these “every day people” into courageous boxers and hope to inspire some of you to try something different.

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This week’s podcast is with trainer, speaker, athlete and founder of Greco Fitness, Tony Greco. Tony has just launched his book Strong Mind, Lean Body. Despite having known Tony for almost two decades, I learned a lot about him in this podcast and how his background shaped who he would become and gave him the drive to achieve his goals. We talk about the evolution of the way people train and workout and how he shaped the incredibly popular “lean and fit” classes. His “celebrity trainer” title has given him access to new clients but the foundation has always remained the same. The way we eat, what we consume, how we train and the way we live will always shape how we look and feel.

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This week on the podcast, we chat with Exec Health President Sanjay Shah. Sanjay was incredibly honest and forthcoming in what works with our system and where we can improve. He praises many aspects of what the Canadian government is able to provide. With that being said, he gives us an interesting perspective on how to take certain aspects into your own hands. I learned far more in this podcast than I expected too and hope you are able to ask yourself some of the same questions I asked myself when we were done.

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This week we talk personal safety with former Canadian Spy Adam Nesrallah. He no longer works with our government agency, but has some interesting viewpoints on how we need to look after our own personal safety – from walking home at night, to creating better passwords and explaining why we are all susceptible to fraud in this digital age. I’ll be honest – some of his suggestions will have you wanting to toss him over a bridge (like switching to a flip phone) but other safety tips are great reminders for anyone. Go easy on him, he really can hurt you with his pinky finger!

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At the forefront- is Unconditional love- if you’ve ever questioned it, or wondered how deep it goes, you will hear it unfold in it's truest form from my guest Amanda Jette Knox.

Some of you may be familiar with her writing from her popular blog "The Maven of Mayhem", an award winning writer she has been featured in "O" The Oprah Magazine, The Globe And Mail, Buzzfeed, US Weekly, The Today Show and many others, but its her best selling book "Love Lives Here; A Story of Thriving In a Transgender Family" that tops all of it.

Had you met Amanda out with her family 8 years ago you may have simply recognized a family of five, mother, father and three sons. Fast forward to the present day, living a much happier, authentic life, is Amanda, her wife Zoe, their eldest son Aerik, their daughter Alexis and their youngest son Jackson. Throughtout the podcast I hope to cover the journey from point A to point B- the courage it took to maneuvere the obstacles and come out the other side as LGBQT advocates/ slash activists and proof that loves conquers all.

For more information about Amanda https://www.amandajetteknox.com/

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This week I chat with Naturopathic Doctor and the founder of “Self Love Mom” Dr. Kristy Lewis. While the title of “Self Love Mom” does come into play, this is really meant for anyone who has dealt with or is dealing with burnout, exhaustion and trying to be everywhere and pleasing everyone at all times. Something has got to give and it’s about giving ourselves permission to let some things fall through the cracks. She has some great recommendations for those currently struggling and tips on when to realize you are in trouble.

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Description: My podcast this Thursday is with world renown conductor Alexander Shelley. Alex’s podcast was an inspiring conversation and I learned so much about the world of classical music. I have always felt a deep kinship with musicians, who like athletes, train and practice for hours (to the point of exhaustion) looking to become the best. It requires a deep dedication to the craft and a passion to live it. Very few make it to the top. Alexander and I talk about his unique childhood in London, why he chose conducting over playing, how music transforms us and why there is a purpose to every note on the page. Our main focus is on preparation and how it becomes the critical factor for success, not just in music or athletics but in life. His podcast comes full circle as about 6 months ago I had his wife Zoe on my podcast. Zoe spoke about her amazing experience through the casting, training, and finally shooting of Wonder Woman. At the time, she had just announced she was pregnant with their first child. As timing would have it, Alexander and I met last week to tape his podcast. The podcast was underscored by the anticipation their baby boy would arrive within the next two weeks. Their son, Sasha arrived two days later. Congrats to both Zoe and Alex! I can’t wait to meet him!

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This week, we chat with Money Coach, Judith Cane about our relationship with money. If you are looking for investment advice for your portfolio or the next big stock to invest in – you won’t find it in the podcast, but what you will find is an honest discussion about how money influences our decisions and our relationships. Judith offers some great advice on how to start teaching our children about the concept of earning, saving and giving money. She explains why not understanding these concepts early affects our decisions later in life, our habits and our downfalls. She describes the work she does with her clients and why real cash is still the key to success. I definitely have shifted my mindset after our conversation!

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On May 9th, enjoying a backyard BBQ with friends at the home of NHL player and Ottawa Senator, Cody Ceci, the unimaginable occurred and a freak accident had 24 year old Hana Engel going up in flames. Doctors and family were unsure if she would survive. She woke up from her coma four weeks after the accident to a new nightmare. While this podcast touches on the moment Hana went up in flames, we focus on her process, her treatment and her recovery. Hana shares her experience of being in her coma and how her background in yoga helped ease her way through the rehab. She is incredibly brave, vulnerable and honest in our talk... I am in awe of the talent and passion of doctors, medical advancements and technology. I hope you enjoy listening to Hana as much as I did and can take something from her messages. I definitely did.

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This week’s podcast with Pat Woodcock has a bit of everything. We talk about Pat’s path to the NFL and the one that eventually led back home to the CFL. He describes the change in training, attitude, nutrition and outlook as he got older. We talk about the transition out of the game and into his role as a coach and trainer. We’ve got plenty of sports stories in the first half of the podcast, and tons of tips and suggestions for your own health adjustments in the second part.

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This week on the podcast, I had a wake-up call. We talk hormones with Dr. Tanya Manikkham, a naturopathic doctor with Nutrichem. Our health can be attributed to a number of factors and I got quite lesson about the effects of hormones – whether a lack of them or too many of them in our bodies. Menopause of course became a big theme but we discuss overall symptoms of hormone imbalance and how it is way more common then we think (when we aren’t going through menopause). Dr. Manikkham has some great advice, tips and concerns she shares. This podcast isn’t just for women, as men are affected just as much as they age.

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This week we bring you on quite the journey with Sarah Roberts. The author of the 28 Day Kick The Sugar Habit has beaten more than her sugar habit. The author of Sarah Talks Food is incredibly open about her life as an alcoholic, finding sobriety and realizing each and every one of us has our own vice to battle. Outspoken with some great tools and tips for those who suffer, she made for a very interesting, emotional and educational chat.

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This week, my guest is former Canadian and World Cup Freestyle skiing champion Elisa Kurylowitz. Her story is quite fascinating – from her quick rise on the freestyle circuit, to traveling the world representing Canada, and to failing to qualify her Olympic Year. Her life spun into an incredibly dark hole after missing the Olympic Games, from which it took her a few years to dig out. Her story is about wins and losses, losing oneself(especially to food and booze) and having the courage to crawl her way back into a new life with a new outlook. I really enjoyed our chat and her honesty.

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My guest this week is Natasha Villeneuve from Natural Food Pantry. She has been a wonderful new friend on this journey of mine and I have truly enjoyed my time with her since becoming an ambassador for the company. Our podcast focuses on everything from nutrition to supplements, what really works and what doesn't, as well as the focus on education. I love the tidbits of kitchen tips she throws in and little suggestions to make the day a little easier. Natasha, a holistic nutritionist herself also shares her own story of how food and food intolerance changed her life and her calling.

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This week, my guest is Veronique Levesque from Molly Maid. How often should you be changing that kitchen cloth and wooden cutting board? Have you ever thrown your pillows in the washing machine? Veronique and I discuss how we care for our homes extends into our overall health. Plus of course we have some tricks of the trade which include a variety of ways dryer sheets can come in handy!

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Kent MacLeod's “Biology Of The Brain- How Your Gut Microbiome Affects Your Brain” is officially on the market.

Kent, the founder and CEO of Nutrichem Compounding Pharmacy and Clinic is an international thought leader and award-winning pharmacist. He has over 35 years of clinical experience delivering patient-centered health care and is globally recognized as a hormone health and nutrition expert. He lectures on the guts microbiome, hormones, mental health, Down Syndrome, pediatrics, pain management, as well as pharmacology.

 In The Biology of the Brain, Kent breaks down why modern medicine is killing people instead of healing them. Instead of leaving the problem as it stands, he provides clear, actionable steps to not only heal your microbiome, but to restore your brain health and get your life back. And we aren’t talking about a bloated stomach or stomach pains, the microbiome affects every single aspect of our health (from disease, to chronic inflammation and obesity) and especially our mental health (from depression to anxiety, stress management, and sleep disorders.

For more information on the book click here. 

All Disease Starts In The Gut- that’s quote from Hippocrates-the father of medicine…and this is where we are going today…

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This week's episode is an eye-opening discussion with pediatrician Dr. Paul. The Medical Officer of Health and Chief Executive Officer for Eastern Ontario is a frequent guest on CTV Morning Live. His four-and-a-half-page condensed resume is beyond impressive, but his passion for initiating programs that make a difference in his patients' lives is his biggest gift to medicine. For anyone looking to understand the fundamentals of health, why the formative years are so crucial and the importance of communication – this is a great listen.

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This week, the stakes are high as REDBLACKS head coach Rick Campbell volunteers himself in the hot seat. Today's podcast is just hours before the team kicks off their home opener at TD Place. If you are looking for a roster rundown, game strategy, quarterback controversy or game plan for the year – you might be disappointed. While football is the underlying storyline, Coach Campbell is opens up about growing up moving from one city to the next, following wherever his father was coaching the game. He talks about the continuous mind games his profession demands and why the most talented player isn’t always top choice. We talk about his perspective on health, fitness and nutrition outside of the game as well as the changes required of the players still in it. I should have charged a $250.00 therapy fee, instead I’m hoping we can get in session number two over time. Best of luck with the upcoming season Coach!

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My guest in the hot seat this week is Mia St. Aubin. Mia is the founder of Parliament Hill Bootcamp (now to be known as Move Camp). She was amazing, talking candidly about her own personal struggles to find her place in the fitness industry, her beliefs and how she views her role in meeting her clients needs. There is much more to her strikingly beautiful physique then meets the eye and a hidden pain that needed to be overcome.

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My guest this week, is former NFLer, CFLer, comedian, podcaster and firefighter Mark Hatfield. I was a guest on Mark’s podcast, The Hatfield Trip, just days after I left CTV Morning Live. The experience of being in a podcast setting on his show helped solidify my desire to create my own. It had been on my wish list of things I wanted to do, and so it was quite amazing to have the roles reversed. His is the ultimate story of perseverance and never giving up on a dream – no matter how far-fetched it may seem. It’s quite an emotional journey of how this non “all-star” fulfilled a promise of making it to the big league.

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This week's episode is with David Segal, the co-founder of David’s Tea and Mad Radish. Our conversation was unique and encompassed both the health and wellness side of the marketplace – but also goes deeper into the life of an entrepreneur, the growth of a business and what it takes to succeed. He has some fun stories, some great analytical suggestions and some wonderful guidance for anyone thinking about launching a business or concept.

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This week, my guest is etiquette expert Julie Blais Comeau. As the world was engulfed in the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle this past weekend, it seemed fitting that this would be an ideal time to reflect on the social graces and customs, not only of royalty, but in our everyday lives. How we interact and communicate in social settings and in business dealings is an integral part of our success. It can make or break future employment, a romantic encounter and even our everyday friendships. How we are treated and how we treat others goes beyond our parent’s instructions in the school playground. We are connected more with our devices now, than we are with the people sitting across from us. Julie helps us understand the history of why it’s still important to follow some of the guidelines and helps us ensure we are putting our best foot forward.

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Podcasting is a new craft for me and I am learning something new every time I’m behind the microphone. I was a sponge soaking in the information from bestselling author Jody Mitic. The soldier, turned amputee, turned reality TV star, turned politician has quite the story to tell. He was awesome, but I should have had a shorter leash. I must warn you that we hit on topics I didn’t expect, got off topic more than once and used language unbecoming for TV. It’s in need of a part two and three!

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This week, I figured it would be quite fitting with Mother’s Day around the corner to have my mom Agnes Laing on the show. This show however, is not all about mothers and Mother's Day. My mom is a trailblazer when it comes to amateur sport and business. She has built one of the largest gymnastics facilities in the country and has touched the lives of thousands of children in the city. She has kids coming to classes whose grandparents she coached. It’s quite remarkable to see and hear the impact she has had on individuals, many of whom have gone on to excel in other sports, but more importantly with life in general. She has seen the shift over the last 45 years of the role sport plays in the lives of families. She talks about the role of a “coach” and the relationship between coach and athlete and the investment they make with one another. We also hit on what its like for coaches and athletes when they are related and trying to find balance in their home lives and on the sports stage (my mom was my coach…and therapy was needed).

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On this week's show, Nutritionist Rachel Caven joins me in studio. I will warn you, she bares all and the first five minutes of the podcast went to places I never expected. There is an enormous amount of information to take with you–especially the real reason why an apple should taste sweet to you!

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My guest today is Olympic curler Lisa Weagle. Lisa is a member of Team Homan, who were a top medal contender at this years Winter Olympic Games. It wasn’t the outcome these World Champions would have liked. We talk about the experience and the pressure going in as a medal favorite. We also hit on her love of curling and how mental and physical training became critical when she returned to the sport she loves.

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"If It Doesn't Challenge You , It Won't Change You"

The one opportunity many of us have right now is to get outside and go for a walk or a run, even a bike ride and feel the wind, the sun and the fresh air. It really becomes a sense of freedom from the forced qurantine and life within our four walls.

Let's Get You Moving: Ian Fraser- President of Run Ottawa and Race Director of Tamarack Race Weekend- the weekend has now gone virtual- but with some amazing new opportunities...

We’ve got some great stories about Ian’s athletic journey but also some great insight into how many of you can take the opportunity over the next few months to get out and run- or walk- maybe even run further than you thought, faster than you thought. I love his tips and insight into the activity as well as how to get started- especially if your starting point is the couch. He talks about runnings influence on mental health- despression, anxiety and so much more. This is about becoming a participant, not a competitor and probably what inspired me to head out for my run this past weekend. Its a great story with lots of takeaways- even if you don't plan on lacing up the shoes.

Ian Fraser is a former Canadian elite ironman competitor, cyclist, runner, restauranteur, and entrepreneur. Last fall Ian took over as President of Run Ottawa as well as Race Director for the Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend. For those in the Ottawa area and cylcing community you may be familiar with Cyclelogic-that’s Ian’s baby- although he happily closed the doors this past fall.

For more on getting involved: http://www.runottawa.ca

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In my newest podcast with Dr. Nathalie Beauchamp we discuss her new book Hack Your Health Habits. The book, which will be hitting shelves in the coming months is enormous, with 12 different sections and 60 plus chapters. Dr Beauchamp asks of her readers “Is it really possible to be at an ideal weight, have tons of energy and feel great?" Optimal health is reached when we ask the right questions, seek knowledge and take responsibility for our own health. There are misconceptions discussed within the health industry and through the media. Pain, inflammation, illness become factors in peoples daily lives and it does't need to be like this....We try and tackle as much of the book as time allows....

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Connie Beaulieu, the founder of CU Fit Personal training and the Activate Health Expo was my guest. Connie is actually one of the people responsible for the certification of the trainers here in Canada, a job she takes quite seriously. In our time together, we discuss the regulations or (lack thereof) of the Canadian Fitness Industry. We also tackle the changes and shifts in power with the popularity of social media. What I really wanted to ask was what are the expectations one should put on the trainer they hire? If you are thinking of hiring a trainer, want to get more out of your workouts or have the aspirations to get involved in the fitness industry- then this is a must listen.

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I think in total I dressed up as Wonder Woman three times for CTV Morning Live. Twice for our Halloween shows and another for Comic Con. I have no desire to take on the role again but I will admit to being a huge fan of the movie. With that being said, I was totally taken back when I found out that Zoe Shelley, the wife of NAC Music Director Alexander Shelley, was involved in the filming. Being in a blockbuster movie had never been on Zoe’s wish list, nor had she ever envisioned herself sword fighting with her new best friends. The former cellist and IT employee took her own leap of faith that landed her an experience of a lifetime. I hope you enjoy her company as much as I did. It really is quite the thrill ride and you will love her accent!

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What I found interesting when Mayor Jim Watson came by the Extension Marketing studios for our podcast was that he joked that he was nervous. I had no political questions on the agenda, no platforms to cover, no election promises to check off and no request for an update on the LRT. I figured this was an easy home run for my former colleague. I loved him even more for saying that he was nervous, though, because he knew the focus was on wellness, balanced lifestyle, health and fitness and he didn’t want to fail miserably. Granted, he isn’t lacing up the sneakers to go for a daily run, adding protein to his balanced diet (I’m being sarcastic there) or managing 8 hours of sleep a night (he has sleep apnea). In fact, he gets an ‘F’ on all aspects. But while he hasn’t always given himself the best chance for his own health, he has made an impact for other peoples lives. We chat about a Smoke Free Ontario, athlete funding, access to recreation and the list goes on.

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No word of a lie, Korey has taught me to cook. Every single time I interviewed her on CTV Morning Live I was inspired. I left with new ideas, information and options. Her passion for food and cooking is well described in this podcast with emphasis on food intolerances, allergies and the food industry itself. You will also learn that the only things you really need in the kitchen are carrots, celery, onion and a really good knife...They are the base of everything.

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While I could have made this podcast about Chris, hockey and his life in the NHL, I really felt that what makes this story so complete and well-rounded is the partnership between him and Erin. We focus on the shifts in life and responsibility as the family grew, the game of hockey itself and how it changed over Chris’s career and how Erin adapted to every new challenge they faced. It’s about family, health, wellness and nutrition. It’s also about adapting, nurturing and adjusting to life when there are new challenges and obstacles every day. I hope you enjoy them as much as our family does.

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Have you ever asked yourself how you ended up using one medication, only to start needing another to counter balance the side effects? Are you concerned that you've lost track of why you started down this road in the first place? Did a sleeping pill or a pain killer find its way into your life and now you can't seem to break its hold? In my podcast with NutriChem founder and CEO Kent MacLeod we talk about health solutions which differ from the mainstream and which challenge our indoctrinated thought process. Apologies for the quality of the audio at the beginning of the podcast! We ran into some technical difficulties.

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Sleep! It’s a topic of conversation anyone can get into! Whether you celebrate getting a good night’s sleep, or whether you need to vent that you in fact did not, we all have our reasons; head is spinning, babies crying, kids having nightmares, needing to pee and the list goes on. Some of the issues are temporary and we simply plow through them, others however are more serious and can have long term health effects. In this podcast, Sleep Efficiency founder Andrew Holmes hits on the importance of what he calls health hygiene.

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As we make our way from A-Z and cover the story of Tocsa's transition from obese to fitness cover girl, all in her 40’s, you realize her journey is a love story.

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Episode 1 by Living Your Life with Lianne Laing.

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Mindfulness, Meditation, Mindfulness Meditation How does one even approach the subject of mindfulness- is there an actual beginning , middle and end? Is everyone’s path or experience the same? What is the outcome we should be expecting?  We’re going through an unprecedented time that's impacting, our life, our health, freedoms, work, finances etc. It’s a profound time of uncertainty, anxiety and a collective fear. It's been a year since I started meditating and I trully believe it is what's helping me stay so grounded during the world pandemic. I am able to come back to the present moment and enjoy its gifts and teachings - something I would have missed a year ago. I really hope you listen with an open mind to this podcast and realize how it can benefit your life, even if just a little. Joining us is Jennifer Innes, The founder of Ottawa Meditation & Wellness- Jennifer is a UMass and UCSD trained mindfulness, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction and Mindful Self-Compassion teacher. Jenn, who is actual a former spy (no joke) shares some incredible insight into how our brains really work, the benefits of the practice, the myths, tricks, tips she helps uncover and so much more. We dive into the process of sitting and being with our pain or suffering rather than skimming over it, as well as the more uplifting and joyful side of being more present in our daily lives. There is lots to take from our chat including a meditation at the end. 

Jenn mentions a number of resources, books, teachers, courses and meditations in our chat which see says can be found on her "resources" page of her website: http://www.omwellness.ca

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Do you trust your intuition? How connected are you with your mind, body, soul?

We focus on the subject of energy today- released just in time for the New Moon this Wednesday night. Trust me, I really did need to figure out the timing and release of this one.

Energy healing is a holistic practice that activates the body's subtle energy systems to remove blocks. By breaking these energetic blocks, the body's inherent ability to heal itself is stimulated. There are many ways people approach energy healing; acupuncture, reiki, even massage have the energy component to it.

The New Moon, is a time for new beginnings and for those tapped into and ready to accept the energy of a new moon; which bring fresh perspectives, improved clarity, a sense of renewal and rebirth. We are going through a major shift in the world right now, pivoting, changing evolving in so many aspects of our life.

Jessica Keats is an International energy healer, specializing in awakening who a person trully is and helping remove what's in their way from becoming their true self. Jessica is renowned for healing limiting beliefs, fears and past traumas so her clients improve physically and emotionally while reaching new heights professionally.

Its a fun conversation, be open minded and maybe take what you need from this, or simply reflect on the possibility of being in tune with one's every flow- the good and the bad. 

Jessica by the way is also the President of the Women's Business Network here in Ottawa.

For more on Jessica : www.jessicakeats.com

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In the midst of these incredibly challenging times there is a wonderful opportunity for you to return to your own personal health and well being. To reset, adjust and optimize your health- despite certain roadblocks you might think are in front of you- there are solutions. ( Also, no judgement whatsoever, if just getting through the days is an accomplishent- that takes courage too).

Peak performance and mindset coach Ben Pakulski is the founder of Ben Pakulski Fitness International, a former Mr. Canada,former Mr. Olympia competitor, professional body builder and Host of The Muscle Intelligence Podcast and it's brands. He has helped a 100 thousand men and woman change their body and their life with his transformation methods. I met Ben when I was hosting CTV Morning Live. He is solid rock, a mountain of a man made of nothing but muscle, with a heart of gold and a mind that will intrigue you. This married father of 3 is not here to “Pump You Up” but rather help you bio hack your life with focus on nutrition, sleep, hormones, mindfuleness, strength and the list goes on. I'm excited for him to give you his perspective on the 6 pillars of health. He is a deep thinker, a spiritual person and you appreciate the work and time he has put into understanding the human mind body connection. He also has some great stories from his own podcast with his world reknown guests and health experts.

For more on Ben, his podcast, products and programs check out: 

www.benpakulski.com or www.muscleintelligencepodcast.com

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We are due for a laugh- a chance to see things a little differently, maybe add a little humour to help us feel alive again. Laughter is great medicine.

Canadian talent Gerry Dee is at the mic.

This award winning stand up comedian was the star and co-creator of the CBC sitcom Mr. Dee for 8 successful seasons. He is an accomplished writer with a national bestselling book called “Teaching- It's Harder Than It Looks” and the host of family fued Canada. His accolades run deep, from Just For Laughs festivals to the Comedy Network and so much more. 

This former high school teacher and married father of 3 was on a very successful stand up tour when COVID hit bringing him back home and into isolation. Its really tough to be put on the spot and told to "be funny" ( trust me- its happened to me on so many occasions when I host event- and it takes talent- one that I dont have). Gerry talks about his path into the entertainment industry, parenting, goal setting, courage, roadblocks, teaching, schoolwork, sports, kids and sports and the list goes on. He was so much fun to talk with and I hope you can simply sit back and relax with this one. 

For more on Gerry's work and his tour: https://gerrydee.com/

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