The Shit Stick of Life – Details, episodes & analysis

Welcome to the Shit Stick of Life Podcast! Eventually, we all get hit with the so-called “shit stick” of life. Sometimes, the circumstances bring us to our knees, causing us to question not only how—but if—we can keep going. The Shit Stick of Life is a podcast about people who have used the proverbial shit stick of life to pole vault into vibrant, fulfilling, and meaningful next chapters. It’s about how we come back; from failure to betrayal, and move through tragedy and loss. Each episode will feature honest, inspiring conversations about resilience. Together, we’ll document the journey from surviving to thriving with a much-needed dose of humour. We HAVE to laugh along this journey.  Podcast host and re-visionary Kortney Wilson knows a thing or two about reinventing herself. She's been an actress (ironically, on the soap opera One Life to Live), a signed recording artist, a reality television star, an author, a real estate agent, a house flipper, a home designer, a style influencer, and the host of multiple shows on HGTV. When her "perfect" marriage of 20 years ended, surfacing decades of secrets and betrayals, the shock and devastation shook her to her core. She called EVERY aspect of her life into question. On The Shit Stick of Life Podcast, Kortney shares her story and goes deep in conversation with her heroes, artists, authors, activists, and others--who have transformed their lives and reinvented themselves in the face of extraordinary setbacks. New episodes drop every other Thursday in 2025. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After shaking off some nerves about her first episode, host Kortney Wilson tells listeners why she feels ready to share her story after a number of personal challenges. She reflects back on her journey from a young aspiring singer moving from Canada to Nashville with big dreams, to navigating the complexities of life as a public figure, including marriage, motherhood, and the challenges of divorce. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity, resilience, and the healing power of sharing one's story in calling her to launch this podcast. Through her candid reflections, she hopes to inspire others who have faced their own 'shit sticks' in life, encouraging them to embrace their struggles and find strength in vulnerability. Connect with Kortney: https://www.shitstickoflife.com/ https://www.instagram.com/shitstickoflifepodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@allthingskortney Watch this Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/oWVGGdpolMQ Canadian Resources: https://988.ca/ https://cmha.ca/find-help/if-you-are-in-crisis/ https://suicideprevention.ca/ https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/mental-health-services/mental-health-get-help.html American Resources: https://988lifeline.org/ https://mhanational.org/suicide-prevention https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Kortney Wilson speaks with Fartumo Kusow, a mother who bravely shares her harrowing journey of fleeing war-torn Somalia, raising her children in Canada, and ultimately facing the tragic loss of her daughter to intimate partner violence. They discuss the signs of abuse, and the emotional turmoil of a mother trying to protect her child from a manipulative partner. Through her advocacy, Fartumo aims to raise awareness about intimate partner violence and the importance of support systems for those affected. She reflects on the unbreakable bond of motherhood, the challenges of navigating the police investigation, and the struggle to find closure. Fartumo emphasizes the importance of speaking out against intimate partner violence and the need for systemic change to protect vulnerable individuals. Through her advocacy work, she aims to honor her daughter's memory and help others facing similar struggles. More about Fartumo Kusow: Born in Somalia, Fartumo Kusow immigrated to Canada in 1991 at the start of the Somali civil war. Her first novel in English, Tale of a Boon’s Wife, was published in 2017 to critical acclaim. Her upcoming novel Winter of My Spring will be published in 2026. Fartumo is the founder of the Sahra Bulle Foundation, established in honor of her daughter, to educate and raise awareness against gender-based violence. She also organizes the annual #IamSahraBulle Conference in collaboration with the University of Windsor, providing a platform to inspire change and advocacy. In addition to her writing, Fartumo leads workshops and gives presentations for unions, schools, and workplaces, focusing on topics like gender equity, violence prevention, and community healing. She is also a podcaster, hosting My Mother: The Person and the Patient, a heartfelt exploration of caregiving for her mother with Alzheimer’s, and Break the Silence, Build a Future, inspired by her daughter's tragic murder in an act of gender-based violence. Fartumo earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature and a Bachelor of Education from the University of Windsor. She now teaches English literature and lives in Windsor, Ontario, as a proud mother of five adult children. Find out more about Fartumo and her work: https://www.instagram.com/fartumokusow/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvrcmHf0KeGHhU1aZVWX9Lw https://www.uwindsor.ca/vp-people-equity-inclusion/465/iamsahrabulle-conference Connect with Kortney: https://www.shitstickoflife.com/ https://www.instagram.com/shitstickoflifepodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@allthingskortney Watch this Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/PICD8glTuSg Canadian Resources: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/health-promotion/stop-family-violence/services.html https://www.sheltersafe.ca/ https://www.casw-acts.ca/en/resources/family-and-intimate-partner-violence https://www.awhl.org/donate American Resources: https://www.thehotline.org/ https://victimconnect.org/resources/national-hotlines/ https://www.justice.gov/ovw/domestic-violence Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Kortney Wilson invites two of her best friends for a heartfelt conversation about the importance of friendship in navigating life’s challenges, especially without the support of her parents and siblings. Calling them her chosen family, Ashley Boyd and Melodie Madden-Adams share personal stories and insights on how friendships evolve over time, the significance of honesty and boundaries, and the complexities of making friends as adults. The discussion also touches on the dynamics of male friendships, and friendships that bring up jealousy or envy in others. They reflect on how their experiences have changed from their 20s to their 40s, discussing how motherhood has influenced their relationships. Of course, they share personal anecdotes that illustrate the joy and laughter that come from strong friendships. More About Ashley Boyd: Ashley is a native Texan who began her education at Baylor University, where she graduated with a bachelor of arts in Communications and Journalism. She entered the non-profit world right out of college and soon after went back to graduate school for her master of arts in Biblical Leadership. After working with various populations such as college students, refugees, and homeless families, she once again went back to school to earn her master of education in Human Development Counseling at Vanderbilt University. After graduation, Ashley worked as a therapist at the YMCA counseling center before going into private practice in 2012. She has also worked as an adjunct professor at Vanderbilt University supervising students and new counselors as they work with clients for the first time. Ashley has been married to Blake for 25 years and has two amazing sons who are in high school and college. www.ashleyboydcounseling.com More About Melodie Madden Adams: Mel hails from Little Rock, Arkansas, but has called Nashville home for the past 20 years. She has spent years as an performer and when not on stage, she is a costume designer, college professor, curve model, make-up artist and Mama. At her core she is a creative and friends jokingly call her "their swiss army knife". Connect with Mel at melodiemaddenadams.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Kortney Wilson interviews Justin McIntosh, an artist manager known for his work with Reba McIntyre and Kristin Chenoweth. Justin shares his humble beginnings from growing up on a farm in West Tennessee to becoming a key player in the Nashville music scene. He discusses his early passion for music, the challenges he faced, and the pivotal moments that led him to work with some of the biggest names in country music. He shares his story of falling in love while disconnecting from his family and the grief he still feels. Justin and Kortney also discuss the importance of support from friends, society’s changing views of LGBTQ+ acceptance, and his excitement about becoming a parent. More About Justin McIntosh: Justin McIntosh is an artist manager based in Nashville, TN. His clients include the legendary Country music icon Reba McEntire and Emmy and Tony award winning singer and actress Kristin Chenoweth. A 2005 graduate of Belmont University, Justin is celebrating his 20th year working in the entertainment industry. Prior to starting his own management firm, Justin was employed by Big Machine Label Group and Starstruck Entertainment working with artists including Taylor Swift, Kelly Clarkson and Blake Shelton. He is a member of the Country Music Association, Academy of Country Music and the Recording Academy. Justin is also a current member of the Leadership Music class of 2025. He has also served on the boards of the Nashville Film Festival, The Theater Bug and Pull-Tight Players in Franklin, TN. Outside of work, Justin enjoys cooking, traveling with husband, watching his backyard birds and working out at OrangeTheory. Connect with Justin on Instagram @jtmc1224. https://musicrow.com/2025/01/justin-mcintosh-signs-kristin-chenoweth-launches-jtmc-entertainment/ Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/M_5M1hKx4fY  Connect with Kortney: https://www.shitstickoflife.com/ https://www.instagram.com/shitstickoflifepodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@allthingskortney Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Kortney Wilson hosts her first ‘Ask Me Anything’ episode with the help of producer Sarah, answering audience questions and sharing insights on personal growth, coping with anxiety, and setting boundaries. She reflects on her journey post-divorce, her thoughts on family dynamics, labels in shaping identity, balancing multiple careers, and authenticity in social media. Kortney and Sarah also discuss the challenges of letting go of people-pleasing tendencies, navigating complex relationships, and embracing aging with grace. Kortney talks about finally finding joy in simple things and shares her aspirations for the future. Connect with Kortney: https://www.shitstickoflife.com/ https://www.instagram.com/shitstickoflifepodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@allthingskortney Watch this Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/EJztQQcCfZY Leave Kortney a voicenote! https://www.shitstickoflife.com/voicemail/ Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to the Ask Me Anything Episode (01:18) Turning Points and Personal Growth (06:15) Coping with Anxiety and Finding Balance (09:50) Letting Go of People-Pleasing (12:43) Navigating Relationships and Friendships (13:02) Goals and Aspirations for the Future (16:08) Embracing Aging and Self-Acceptance (18:33) Finding Joy in Simple Things (19:49) Reflections on Past TV Shows and Relationships (22:36) Family Dynamics and Personal Connections (27:00) Navigating Trust and Healing (28:01) Breaking Generational Patterns (28:58) The Impact of Labels on Identity (33:03) Balancing Multiple Careers (36:02) The Role of Authenticity in Social Media (37:05) Morning Routines for Success (38:54) Embracing Canadian Culture Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Disclaimer: This episode briefly touches on mushrooms and microdosing. It is in not meant to be taken as professional or medical advice. Ahead of Mother’s Day, host Kortney Wilson welcomes back popular guests, friends and mothers, Mel and Ashley. They explore motherhood from a variety of angles, from how relationships and family dynamics change over time, to intimacy, dating later in life, and the complexities of step-parenting. They reflect on the lessons learned from their mothers, discussing different parenting styles and the importance of open communication. They also answer some audience questions together! Links from this conversation: https://michaelpollan.com/books/how-to-change-your-mind/https://www.netflix.com/ca/title/80229847 Chapters (00:00) Introduction and Welcome Back (02:05) Navigating Online Drama and Bullying (04:00) Motherhood Reflections and Lessons (10:10) Body Image and Self-Perception After Motherhood (13:03) Scheduling Intimacy in Relationships (17:56) Dating and Relationships in Your 50s (21:50) Parenting Dynamics and Step-Parenting (29:51) The Evolution of Motherhood and Parenting Styles (32:09) Open Conversations with Teenagers (35:15) Regrets and Life Choices (39:15) Exploring Plant Medicine and Microdosing Connect with Kortney: ⁠https://www.shitstickoflife.com/⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/shitstickoflifepodcast⁠ ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@allthingskortney⁠ Watch this Episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyIp6IQjgepxjIL9a3sgYXaEcCwT65XDH Leave Kortney a voicenote! ⁠https://www.shitstickoflife.com/voicemail/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Kortney Wilson welcomes Maryam Monsef to the studio in Toronto for a conversation about coming to Canada as an Afghan refugee and becoming a Canadian politician. From being born in Iran to becoming the first and only Afghan woman in Canadian Parliament (for now, April 17th, 2025), Maryam shares her journey. She discusses her family's struggles, including her father's death and her mother's resilience. Maryam recounts her political career, including her first mayoral campaign and her election to Parliament. She highlights her efforts during the pandemic to support women and children, despite facing backlash. Post-election, she founded Onward, a company that helps leaders navigate challenges, especially emphasizing the importance of women's voices. More About Maryam Monsef: Maryam Monsef, Founder and CEO of ONWARD, is a sought-after international speaker, facilitator, and strategic advisor. She has dedicated her life to women’s empowerment and equity. She is a dynamic speaker who designs her keynotes and workshops to uplift women and provide them with a toolkit to thrive in their personal and professional lives. Balancing her role as a dedicated mother with her professional commitments, Maryam draws daily inspiration from working moms everywhere. She held various social and economic development files in government. She was President of the Queen’s Privy Council and helped establish and lead Canada’s first full Department focused on Women and Gender Equality. In 2018 and 2019, she was named one of the Top 20 global influencers on gender equality, alongside notable figures such as Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Michelle Obama, and Malala Yousafzai. Through her business and volunteer work, she strives to foster a world where women and their families are thriving. https://www.instagram.com/maryammonsef https://www.maryammonsef.com/ Connect with Kortney: https://www.shitstickoflife.com/ https://www.instagram.com/shitstickoflifepodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@allthingskortney Watch this Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5igdAY7E7Xk Leave Kortney a voicenote! https://www.shitstickoflife.com/voicemail/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Kortney Wilson recorded with a live audience in Toronto with special guest, award-winning artist Lindsay Ell. The two television personalities and musicians share their journeys from Canada to Nashville, reflecting on both the milestones and the challenges they have faced in the spotlight. Kortney speaks to Lindsay about overcoming her eating disorder, body image, hosting Canada’s Got Talent, and her latest EP was born out of radical self-love. They also take some questions from an intimate audience at the Academy inside Universal Music Canada headquarters. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OU05aCogJCs Connect with Kortney: https://www.shitstickoflife.com/ https://www.instagram.com/shitstickoflifepodcast https://www.tiktok.com/@allthingskortney Watch this Episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/EJztQQcCfZY Leave Kortney a voicenote! https://www.shitstickoflife.com/voicemail/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode Disclaimer: This episode touches on the loss of a child following pregnancy and may be triggering for some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. Host Kortney Wilson interviews Toronto Media Personality Caitlin Green, a former radio host and lifelong pop culture and reality tv enthusiast. Caitlin shared her initial reluctance to have children, and the unexpected pregnancy of her son Sam. Sam was born at full term but passed away six hours later due to a fetal-maternal hemorrhage. Caitlin and her husband created a foundation to support Mount Sinai Hospital, raising $42,000. They now have a healthy son, Will, and continue to honour Sam's memory through various tributes and discussions with their family. Find out more about Caitlin Green and her support of Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto: https://www.instagram.com/caitlingreeen/ https://secure.supportsinai.ca/site/Donation2?df_id=5382&mfc_pref=T&5382.donation Connect with Kortney: ⁠⁠https://www.shitstickoflife.com/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/shitstickoflifepodcast⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@allthingskortney⁠⁠ Watch this Episode on YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyIp6IQjgepxjIL9a3sgYXaEcCwT65XDH⁠ Leave Kortney a voicenote! ⁠⁠https://www.shitstickoflife.com/voicemail/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices