Fall is here - and it’s giving balance, reflection, and a much needed reset. This week, i'm leaning into it. I share my own guide to slowing down, navigating Thanksgiving, and learning to live in the present. This episode is a reminder that growth often happens in the quiet moments - when we finally pause long enough to appreciate where we are.
From decluttering your space, to road-tripping down the California coast, this is your sign to reset, slow down, and appreciate how far you’ve come. I also discuss my commitment to mental health awareness, and the exciting things on the horizon for the podcast. Happy thanksgiving turkeys, soak up this time how you need!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Hey ya'll! In this week's episode, we sat down with Julianna Laine, singer-songwriter, surfer, model, and graphic designer in Tofino. Julianna shares her journey from a small-town upbringing to pursuing her dreams in music and surfing. She reflects on the influence of her family, the challenges of fitting in during high school, and the transformative experience of moving to Australia. We get into how she's made her dreams come true from co-writing with John Vincent III, shooting for Roxy, and how to take up space - at work and in the lineup.
Julianna discusses her university experience, the impact of social media on her career, and the importance of community among women in the industry. She also shares insights on personal growth, relationships, finding a partner who believes in her biggest dreams, and the power of manifestation, encouraging listeners to trust themselves and pursue their passions!
If you’ve ever felt underestimated, landlocked, or in need of a change, this one’s your nudge to go do that thing!
takeaways
Thanks to our sponsors!
Links:
Follow Julianna Laine: @juliannalaine
Listen to Julianna on Spotify: Julianna Laine
Follow Marnie: @marniebreed
Follow Giddy Up Pod: @gidddyyyup
Check Her Stickers: Wavy Baby Design
Chapters:
(04:39) Intro to Julianna
(13:00) Moving to Aus & Learning to Surf
(19:15) Elevating her Music Journey
(31:43) Personal Relationships & Dating
(41:52) Round Up Q&A
In this ep, Marnie opens up about what’s really been going on behind the scenes and dives into the themes of energy and capacity. Through the lens of family dynamics and her own personal journey, she explores the importance of recognizing your needs, setting boundaries, and creating space for repair in relationships.
She also shares reflections on navigating emotional safety and the way our environments shape our well-being. At its core, this conversation is about paying attention to what drains you, what restores you, and learning how to manage both in a way that supports real growth.
takeaways
Follow Giddy Up Pod: @gidddyyyup
Follow Marnie: @marniebreed
Thanks to our sponsors:
chapters
(00:00) Welcome to Giddy Up: Embracing Vulnerability
(04:45) Navigating Emotional Drain and Family Dynamics
(13:30) Understanding Energy and Capacity
(22:47) Importance of Setting Boundaries
(27:29) Repairing Relationships: The Path to Healing
(33:55) Closing Thoughts & Advice
In this deeply honest and wide-ranging conversation, Dre Turner joins us to unpack what it means to live through loss, rewrite your story, and come out the other side still standing. Adopted as a baby and raised in Ottawa, Dre shares her early experiences navigating identity, trauma, and belonging, including a reunion with her birth mother many years later. We dive into the impact of her mother’s long battle with brain cancer, and the heartbreaking but empowering experience of supporting her through MAID (medical assistance in dying).
Dre reflects on the dark and challenging moments of caregiving, and how it ultimately deepened her understanding of what it means to show up for someone you love. We also explore the loving marriage she shared with her ex-husband . before deciding to seperate ways just shy of their four-year anniversary, Dre speaks candidly about how they consciously uncoupled with grace, respect, and enduring affection. Their marriage was full of adventure, and even as they grew apart, they managed to stay close.
We cover it all, from early bullying and identity exploration to sexual fluidity, agency life in Toronto, moving west, finding healing in nature, and the ongoing journey of learning who you are after everything changes. Dre is in a season of reinvention, one that’s equal parts grief and lightness, solitude and community, and full permission to become someone entirely new. This episode is for anyone who’s lost something, let go of someone, or is learning to feel more at home in their own story.
Themes We Explore:
Chapters:
Chapters
(00:00) Intro to Dre's Journey
(08:55) Navigating Adoption and Identity
(17:13) Career Path and Creative Evolution
(30:43) Amicable Divorce: Maintaining Friendship
(42:30) Exploring Her Sexuality
(44:33) Caring for a Dying Parent with Cancer
(53:08) Finding Meaning in Grief and Loss
(54:35) The Process of MAID
(01:04:50) The Grief Tour of Two Big Losses
(01:14:45) Reconnecting with Birth Family
(01:21:25) Rebuilding Life and Finding Joy
(01:27:41) Fun Round Up Questions
Thank You to Our Sponsors:
Links:
Dre's Instagram: @dreturner
Dre's Newsletter: Words by Dre
Follow Spritz: @spritzsessions
Spritz Website: Here
Follow Marnie: @marniebreed
#16 This week's guest, Julie Smith, shares her profound journey from a strict conservative Christian upbringing to becoming a doula and prenatal educator. She discusses her experiences with adoption, trauma, substance abuse, teaching, as well as her journey towards recovery and self-discovery. Julie emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces for open communication, and reflects on her experiences as a teacher and mother. The conversation touches on themes of identity, shame, and the complexities of intimacy and sexual health within the context of her upbringing.
Julie explores the complexities of intimacy, parenting, and personal growth through the lens of motherhood, disability, and trauma recovery. Sharing her journey from unexpected pregnancy to raising a child with health challenges, we delve into the role of doulas in childbirth, the sacredness of the birthing experience, and the impact of aging on identity. Julie reflects on the lessons learned from her children and the transformative power of overcoming adversity, navigating life's challenges, the importance of living in the present, and embracing emotions during difficult times.
We also reflect on the evolution of marriage, the significance of self-discovery, and the need for supportive communities, especially among women. Julie emphasizes the importance of doing inner child work, creating safe spaces for dialogue, and the beauty of chosen family connections. As she embraces her 50s, she expresses excitement for new beginnings and the importance of supporting one another in motherhood and personal growth.
This episode is for women everywhere, I am so inspired by this episode and hope you are too :)
Chapters
(08:30) Introduction to Julie & Growing Up
(19:20) Teenage Struggle to Substance Abuse
(33:25) Navigating Virginity, Intimacy, & Pregnancy!
(42:30) Positive Lessons & Gifts of Julie's Family
(53:10) The Role of a Doula and Advocacy in Childbirth
(101:42) Near Death Brain Injury - Snowboarding in BC
(1:15:00) Rapid Fire Round Up Questions :)
(1:26:39) Exploring Her Biological Lineage
(1:32:33) Wrap Up & What's Next For Julie
Links:
Julie's Instagram: @juliekennedysmith
Julie's Link Page: Julie Doula & Birth
Follow Marnie: @marniebreed
Stay at The Shoreline
Thank You to Our Sponsors:
#15 WE'RE BACK! 2025 let's get it. By it, I mean a healthy lifestyle, self confidence, and time well spent with your community. Improving your life starts with implementing consistent habits & setting goals for your future. This year, I'm challenging myself to discipline, financial planning, and showing up for my health. DO IT WITH ME! In this episode, you'll hear tips including my approach to 75 Soft, a structured way of cultivating stronger habits with fitness, diet, and mental health. I get candid about my childhood trauma to give you some of the dirty details of what got me here, and why sharing what is happening to you is so important. I talk about the exciting things on the horizon with Giddy Up, and highlight how tracking spending and setting up smart savings can lead to a more secure future.
Whether dealing with heartbreak, career shifts, or personal growth, I invite everyone to join me in navigating life's ups and downs with authenticity and determination to try to show up for ourselves!
Thanks to our sponsors:
Bryan Pudney. If you’re interested in Tofino Living, contact Brian at bpudney@rennie.com or shoot him a text at +1 778 558 2414.
Picot Collective is a west coast staple for daily home essentials that I love. Use my code GIDDYUP10 for 10% off your purchase!
Wet your whistle with Water Water Water by Tofino Brewing.
Links from today's episode:
Budgeting & Money Dashboard I Use
Deck the halls and your to-do list as we wrap up 2024 with our last ep, surprise we're filming live!! In this heartfelt episode, Marnie shares her personal reflections on the complexities of the holiday season. She discusses the emotional challenges many face during this time, including feelings of loneliness, grief, and the pressure to meet family expectations. There are tips and treats highlighting the importance of setting boundaries, creating new traditions, and prioritizing taking time for yourself.
Grad your eggnog while Marnie addresses the impact of consumerism on the holiday spirit and encourages listeners to embrace their own unique ways of celebrating. Ultimately, this episode is here for anyone who needs it, serving as a reminder that the holidays do not have to conform to societal norms and that it's okay to navigate them in a way that feels right for you!
Thank you to our sponsors!
Marnie heads to Squamish to meet Sleestak—a gifted tattoo artist, muralist, skateboarder, and influencer making waves in the Sea to Sky region. Sleestak shares personal insights into the role of family and friends in fostering creativity and resilience. He talks about the challenges of his tattoo apprenticeship, balancing personal life with the support of his partner, Laura, and the importance of their relationship in navigating life’s complexities together.
The episode delves into how ADHD shapes Sleestak’s approach to art and routine, as well as the significance of staying active and maintaining mental and physical health. He reflects on breaking stereotypes as a tattooed artist, his struggles with self-criticism, and his journey toward personal growth.
Listeners will hear candid stories about overcoming imposter syndrome, dealing with a panic attack during an influencer trip to Whistler, and the uncertainties of being a creative entrepreneur. Sleestak also highlights how relocating to Squamish transformed his lifestyle, offering him a renewed sense of balance and community.
From the importance of optimism and hard work to the evolving nature of success, Sleestak offers an honest, inspiring perspective on creativity, persistence, and staying true to oneself. This episode is packed with valuable lessons, heartfelt moments, and a fresh take on what it means to live a fulfilling, authentic life.
Chapters
(11:06) Early Life and Skateboarding Journey
(26:11) Sponsors, Brand Deals & Social Media
(34:18) Sleestak's Tattoo Stories
(45:40) Meeting Laura :)
(56:50) Sleestak's Drive & Family History
(102:40) Imposter Syndrome & Mental Health
(1:20:00) Fun Round Up Questions!
Scott's Instagram: @x.sleestak.x
Grateful Tattoo Squamish Instagram: @gratefultattoosquamish
Grateful Gift Shop Website: Link to Shop
Follow Marnie: @marniebreed
Thanks to our sponsors:
HAPPY HALLOWEEN cow people!! Marnie is back with a solo episode where she reflects on her life as she turns 30, sharing insights and lessons learned from her 20s.
Marnie discusses the ways her early & mid twenties have shaped the importance of self discovery, prioritizing mental health, developing new experiences, building confidence, and the value of surrounding oneself with supportive relationships.
She also highlights the pressures and expectations surrounding career, personal growth, friendships, and the societal norms of marriage and family at this stage in life. Marnie shares examples of what she's learned and overcome in her twenties when it comes to career and following a certain path. She discusses the areas she's focusing on for her long term health, the importance of supportive and authentic friends, and why she is not racing to get married despite what society suggests.
Marnie encourages listeners to embrace their thirties as a time for growth and exploration, rather than succumbing to societal pressures. Thirty is the new twenty five, YEEHAW!
Follow Marnie: @marniebreed
Thanks to our sponsors:
In this extended episode, we sit down with an incredibly talented and well spoken lady, Andi Wardrop. Andi shares her story of growing up with an alcoholic mother and the challenges she faced advocating for her mom's health. The episode covers themes of joy, the impact of addiction on family dynamics, the struggle to protect her mom with addiction, and the importance of compassion. We also dive into her own career trajectory with videography in Whistler, what pushed her to move out west, and how riding pow in the backcountry made her realize that she was meant to move to Vancouver Island.
That’s not all… we discuss her sister's severe biking accident in Ucluelet and challenges she faced during that period, her experience with grief and how it has shaped her perspective on life & her love for Ukee and the supportive community she has found there. Andi also shares how getting her dog, Nova, during her recovery brought joy and healing to her sister Emma.
Marnie asks Andi questions and advice on her relationship with alcohol and the stigma towards medication. Andi emphasizes the importance of self-care, navigating anxiety, and the lessons she learned from her past relationship. She shares her plans for the future and the importance of being present and enjoying life.
To contact Andi, you can reach her via: andiwardrop@gmail.com
Follow Andi: @andiwardrop
Thanks to our sponsors:
Resources From Andi
Podcasts:
Videos:
Books & Links:
Follow the Podcast on Insta: @giddyyyuppodcast
Follow Marnie: @marniebreed
If you like the show, tell a friend about it! You can text, email or send this link to a friend: Giddy Up With Marnie
To send me your questions/stories: email me: marniebreed@gmail.com
To check out our GU MERCH: https://giddyuppodcast.com/shop
Chapters:
(00:00) Intro
(20:00) Discovering Her Mom's an Alcoholic
(41:50) Hitting Rock Bottom
(56:00) Passion for Photography & Videos
(1:18:00) Diving into Grief
(1:33:00) Pemberton Backcountry
(1:40:10) Andi's Sisters' Accident
(2:01:00) Sad & Depressed Girl Summer
(2:13:00) Advice for Others
(2:24:00) Closing Comments & Outro
The tide has turned this week! Marnie is joined by friend Ryan Ell for an amusing episode of Giddy Up, sharing his wild experiences travelling as a surf photographer, including his recent trips to Australia and Hawaii. Ryan shares how he got into surf photography and the highlights of witnessing the worlds' greatest surf athletes. The two discuss the mentors & friends who have helped him along the way, including Ryan Miller and Jeremy Koreski. Ryan also discusses the importance of staying true to your style and exploring different subjects in photography.
Ryan opens up about his introverted nature and how he navigates relationships. He reflects on the impact of his parents' divorce, his love for sports, particularly rugby and golf, and how they provide an outlet for stress and anxiety. Marnie gets his perspective on men's mental health and they talk about his next adventures this year to follow for the WSL tour!
Links from Episode:
Chapters:
(00:00) Giddy Up Recap & Episode Intro
(05:36) Ryan's Recent Trip to Australia
(09:39) Getting into the Big Leagues of Surf Photography
(28:28) Highlights & Challenges on the WSL Tour
(34:09) Navigating Relationships as an Introvert
(41:40) Finding Mental and Physical Outlet in Sports
(48:02) The Importance of Men's Mental Wellbeing
We are obsessed with this week's guest, Dominique Juric, Founder of Natural Freedom! We discuss her life and inspiring journey on the west coast in Whistler. Dom reflects on a life-altering relationship throughout her early twenties, combined with an introspective period brought by COVID-19, which propelled her to break free and embark on a path of self-discovery and empowerment. Dom shares the origin story and evolution of her brand, Natural Freedom, a consciously free project and community designed to encourage people to engage with the outdoors through inclusive and educational events.
Marnie and Dom talk about the difficulties that Dom faced in her childhood, how those experiences shaped her work ethic, and passion for expressing herself. We chat about balancing the act of side hustles & passion projects, the work Dom's put in to cultivate a supportive community, falling in love again, and the exciting new chapter for her living in Tofino.
Key Takeaways:
Leaving a Traumatic Relationship: Dominique discusses the struggles and transformative moments that led to her leaving her past relationship.
Family Dynamics and Resilience: The impact of Dominique's upbringing between her parents divorce.
Finding Purpose Through Natural Freedom: How Natural Freedom was born and helped her focus on the community she's surrounded by.
Managing the Events and Project: The path that led to launching the brand and how Dom learned from each event and her supportive friends.
New Beginnings in Tofino: Dominique's move to Tofino from Whistler and her plans for the future of Natural Freedom.
Timestamps:
(0:15) Dominique's Journey from Ontario to Whistler and Beyond
(1:47) Navigating a Relationship After a Traumatic Brain Injury
(17:10) Living in Whistler: Integrating, Jobs, and Side Hustles
(21:02) Finding Purpose Through Natural Freedom
(26:19) Empowering Women Through Community Events and Personal Growth
(49:26) Navigating Childhood Trauma and Family Dynamics
(1:01:01) Exploring Self-Identity and Family Connections
(1:11:20) Dream Events, New Beginnings, and Natural Freedom Ventures
Natural Freedom Instagram: @byNaturalFreedom
Natural Freedom Events and Merch: Natural Freedom
Dom's Instagram: @DominiqueJuric
Prepare to be floored by this week's guest.. Liz McInnes joins Marnie for a wild ride into her life, including growing up with a schizophrenic mom, navigating Crohn's disease, and trying to find her way without a dad. But have no fear, because Grandma was here. Liz discusses the challenges she faced by her family dynamics, the importance of self-care and boundaries, and the positive relationships that have entered her life (mainly dogs & Frazer of course). She also discusses the tough decision to amputate her dog's leg due to bone cancer last year.
We dive into how she started her own business, Bad Dog, the cutest pup store in Tofino, and the joys that came with working her way there. Liz shares her perspective on mental health, anxiety medication, and the importance of listening to your body. She also touches on the dog culture in Tofino & the intricacies that come with it.
This episode is one of resilience, and finding your place in the world. I find Liz's story incredibly relatable, and am so grateful to have gotten to know her so much better through Giddy Up!
In this video episode, Marnie gets to delve into the remarkable life of Bryanna Bradley. A pioneering female surf and lifestyle photographer based in Tofino. Bryanna discusses the intensities of working in the photojournalism industry in Ontario that eventually led her to becoming one of the first female surf photographers on the West Coast of Canada and Hawaii. Bryanna opens up about her experience managing an eating disorder throughout her life, and her recovery process managing it throughout COVID.
Buckle up for hot topics, as Bryanna's life took a dramatic turn after a surfing accident in Mexico in 2022. Leading her to reevaluate her goals and embark on a transformative hike along the Continental Divide Trail (CDT) last year. Facing daunting obstacles like heavy snowfall and allergic reactions, Bryanna's resilience and the support of friends propelled her forward. We dive into wild stories on trail from near death experiences, dealing with post-trail depression after her hike and finding her equilibrium. Her story, marked by a commitment to pushing herself, offers insights into self-discovery and authenticity.
Join Marnie as she explores the intersection of adventure, resilience, and personal growth with this inspiring woman!
Chapters:
(00:00) Introduction and Giggles
(09:36) Traveling and Finding Her Passion
(27:00) Brands and Favorite Surfers
(34:50) Traumatic Surfboard Accident
(52:10) The Continental Divide Trail (CDT)
(59:40) Hiking the CDT & Highlights Along the Trail
(01:09:34) Full Body Allergic Reaction and Food Restrictions
(01:30:00) Post-Trail Depression and Finding Equilibrium
(01:33:00) Rapid Fire Questions for Bryanna
Join Marnie for a solo episode discussing the topic of change, and how it can lead to personal development. She emphasizes the benefits of change, which have allowed her to explore new opportunities, become adaptable, and develop resilience. Marnie shares her own experience with change, including leaving her corporate job and starting a new pursuit. She encourages everyone to embrace change and take risks in order to create a life that aligns with your passions and values. If change is on your brain, then this episode is for you!
Our first video episode is wildy goofy and riveting, we'd expect nothing less from Lilly Woodbury! As the Regional Manager of Surfrider Foundation Canada (& Sexy Stoked Pacific Rim Surf Bums), Lilly's environmental activist roots are shaped by her formative years in Tofino and her parents' eco-conscious ethos. We delve into her unconventional upbringing in Tofino, navigating world issues, and personal challenges with resilience and grace. Lilly opens up about her unwavering support for her parents through tough times, recounting her father's valiant fight against cancer and her mother's inspiring triumph over the disease.
We then explore the significance of self-care and equilibrium in our chill, yet incredibly un-chill, lives. Lilly imparts wisdom on overcoming self-doubt and cherishing moments of solace in nature. She emphasizes the importance of seeking out positive news, and taking action to make a difference. Brimming with personal anecdotes, including a thrilling and scary car crash at her father's celebration of life.
This episode is a testament to Lil's and my friendship, her resilience, passion, and the impact of familial and environmental influences. Yeehaw!
In this episode, Marnie shares her personal story, focusing on her childhood and the impact of her parents' divorce. She discusses the challenges she faced growing up in a tumultuous environment and the effects it had on her mental health. Marnie also opens up about her mother's struggle with schizophrenia/psychosis and the difficulties they both endured. Despite the hardships, Marnie emphasizes the importance of seeking help and finding support in order to overcome adversity.
Takeaways:
≋ Childhood experiences shape who we become as adults.
≋ Living in a chaotic environment can have a significant impact on mental health.
≋ Stigma surrounding mental illness can prevent individuals from seeking help.
≋ Support systems and healthy relationships are crucial for coping with challenges.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Personal Story
04:03 Childhood and Family Dynamics
26:47 Mom's Mental Health Decline
41:30 Recovery and Reflection
Links:
Marnie dives into her life facing the scary circumstances of mental trauma that equips her with a desire to get behind the mic.. be prepared to be shocked by what you don't know about this surfer gal. Plus, she talks about the specifics of facing stigma, and growing up in a society that doesn't like to get real.
Links discussed from this episode:
2017 SickBoy Episode - Something's Wrong with Mom