Welcome back to The Rebuild podcast! After a break that felt like "forever," hosts Carmen Turner and Beth Borody catch up on significant global and personal events. They reflect on the idea that life is a constant rebuild, a perspective they are becoming more comfortable with, accepting that rebuilding doesn't have a set end point. The episode touches on navigating the current global and Canadian turmoil, drawing parallels to the uncertainty felt during the initial COVID-19 lockdown and recent political shifts. Beth notes their generation is accustomed to this volatility, having experienced over five economic recessions. Amidst the challenges, they emphasize the importance of focusing on what they can control within their communities and lives, seeking positives, and finding opportunities.
Key topics discussed include:
Navigating Turmoil & Life as a Constant Rebuild: The hosts acknowledge the significant global shifts, including the political atmosphere mirroring the US election and recent Canadian political events. They discuss the feeling of continuous change and the need to focus on controllable actions within one's community amidst uncertainty. Finding positives, seeking opportunities, and maintaining joy are crucial for building resilience.
Beth's Champs for Charity Boxing Journey: Beth shares her experience training intensely for 16 weeks for a legitimate boxing match as part of a charity event for McMaster Children's Hospital. She discovered a love for boxing as a way to quiet her mind. Despite feeling prepared and performing strongly, the fight outcome wasn't what she hoped for, and she sustained a significant injury. Beth applies the concept of "output versus outcome" from a previous guest, Ben Sporer, expressing pride in her preparation and performance (output) regardless of the result. She is grateful for her remote work situation which allows her to continue working while healing, and appreciates her support network. The event raised $700,000 for the hospital.
Carmen's Sustainability Community Initiative: Carmen discusses creating a community for women in the sustainability, ESG, and impact fields, who often feel lonely and prone to burnout from constantly making the business case and influencing others. Inspired by connecting in nature and resilient fungi networks, she sought a simple, non-traditional way to connect women. She launched a boat sauna excursion idea, which resonated strongly, selling out in two days and generating a waitlist. This simple approach to "setting the table" for connection has proven highly effective.
The Vital Role of Community: Throughout the episode, both hosts highlight the increasing need for community, especially among women, during challenging times. They see their respective communities (Feminina and the new sustainability group) as crucial spaces for support, connection, and empowerment, where people come together during hardships.