In this episode, Tanya Eklund shares her inspiring journey to becoming a published children’s book author with her debut story, I’m More Than Just a Warthog.
Written from the heart, Tanya’s book explores the important themes of bullying, belonging, and the power of kindness. Through a heartfelt and relatable story, she encourages young readers to embrace who they are and to lead with compassion and courage—even in the face of adversity.
I’m More Than Just a Warthog invites meaningful conversations between children, parents, and educators about empathy, inclusion, and standing up for what’s right.
This project wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible partnership and guidance of Denise Summers, whose support helped bring Tanya’s vision to life in the most meaningful way.
Tanya’s inspiring debut is available now on Amazon.
Ray Epstein is a survivor, student activist, and legislative advocate reshaping how institutions respond to sexual violence. After experiencing abuse at 13 and being silenced by her school, she turned her pain into purpose—founding Student Activists Against Sexual Assault (SAASA) at Temple University, now over 500 members strong. She co-authored Pennsylvania’s Every Voice Bill, written by student survivors for student survivors, and has secured nearly $400,000 to fund prevention initiatives, including a groundbreaking partnership with Uber Social Impact. Through testimony, keynote speeches, and national publications, Ray continues to ensure no survivor ever feels unheard, disbelieved, or alone.
Jewel Waara is a Calgary-based advocate and recent graduate in Addiction Studies, passionately using her voice to raise awareness about MRKH syndrome — a rare congenital condition she was diagnosed with at the age of 17.
Born without a uterus, vaginal canal, and one kidney, Jewel has transformed her personal journey through grief, identity, and resilience into a mission of empowerment. Drawing from her lived experience and her work in community support, she is breaking the silence around invisible diagnoses, infertility, and mental health.
Jewel's advocacy reminds others that they are not alone — and that their stories matter.
Jenn Harper is the founder and CEO of Cheekbone Beauty, an Indigenous-owned and sustainability-driven cosmetics brand that’s changing the face of beauty—literally. A proud Anishinaabe woman from Northwest Angle #33 First Nation, Jenn is known for weaving Indigenous wisdom, sustainability, and bold innovation into every aspect of her business. Since her groundbreaking appearance on CBC’s Dragon’s Den in 2019, she has become a powerful voice for Indigenous youth and representation in beauty. From launching the first Indigenous Innovation Lab to formulating clean products that honour both people and the planet, Jenn’s mission is clear: to inspire future generations by showing what’s possible when you lead with purpose and identity.
Violeta Rangel is a resilient force of nature, a woman who’s turned adversity into purpose. From experiencing poverty and homelessness in Mexico as a child to rebuilding her life as a single mother across three countries, her journey is one of reinvention, courage, and unwavering determination. After leaving behind a life she built in Amsterdam, Violeta started over in Canada with her two-year-old and no safety net — just hope and grit. Today, she empowers women to rise above their circumstances, believe in their inner strength, and boldly rewrite their stories.
Vicki Tyler is a fearless leader, entrepreneur, and advocate for bold living. Surviving two near-death experiences, she defied the odds—transforming from a backpacker to President of Flight Centre USA and later building a thriving real estate development company in LA. Drawing from corporate leadership, behavioral science, and her own resilience, she created the .045% Mindset, a powerful framework to help ambitious women break self-doubt and take fearless action. Passionate about impact, Vicki has led initiatives from building homes in Mexico to empowering women in surf communities. She believes life is short, connections matter, and bold goals are meant to be chased.
oumana Moallem is the devoted mother of Mariam, who lives with a chronic case of Sickle Cell Disease. As her primary caregiver, Joumana has dedicated her life to ensuring her daughter’s health and happiness while navigating the daily challenges of this complex illness. Together, Joumana and her daughter are passionate about raising awareness of Sickle Cell Disease. By sharing their journey, Mariam hopes to inspire others with her resilience, while Joumana highlights the strength and sacrifices of caregiving. Their story is a powerful reminder of the importance of advocacy and love in overcoming life’s obstacles.
After 30 years as a Wall Street analyst, Ellen Silverman traded finance for real estate, bringing her sharp analytical skills and passion for people to the competitive NYC market. For the past eight years, she has helped buyers, sellers, and renters navigate Manhattan’s fast-paced landscape with a strategic yet personal approach. Ellen understands that real estate is more than transactions—it’s about life’s biggest decisions. Whether negotiating a multimillion-dollar deal or guiding first-time buyers, she makes the process seamless and rewarding. A true New Yorker, she finds energy in the city’s hidden gems, Central Park strolls, and the thrill of helping clients find their perfect home.
Holly Carroll is a #1 Best-Selling Author, Luxury Realtor, and Mentor dedicated to empowering women to unlock their full potential. As Managing Director of The Agency Muskoka, she’s built a thriving real estate career fueled by confidence, resilience, and personal transformation. A former Miss Canada, Holly leverages her platform to champion philanthropy and mentorship, helping others overcome self-sabotage and step into their power. She’s the founder of Women Empower Women Co. and Finding The Beauty Within, which helps young women build self-worth and confidence. Her book, Closing Deals in Heels, reveals the untold story of her rise in real estate, sharing powerful insights on overcoming limiting beliefs and embracing vulnerability. Holly’s mission is to inspire others to discover their true calling, embrace their highest selves, and shine brightly for all to see.
Karen Gosbee is a courageous advocate, author, and survivor who turned her personal tragedy into a powerful mission to raise awareness around domestic abuse, mental health, and addiction. Once trapped in a seemingly perfect life with a successful husband, Karen's world shattered when she realized the psychological and emotional abuse she had endured. After the tragic suicide of her husband, she found her voice and began sharing her story to help others break free from the silence of abuse.
Through her book, My Perfect Nightmare, and her advocacy work, Karen is leading the charge for systemic change, gender equity, and better support for survivors of abuse. Today, Karen is not only healing but empowering others, using her lived experience to spark a broader conversation on the importance of mental health, personal growth, and resilience.
In 1997, a routine skydive turned into a nightmare for Carol Murray when her parachute malfunctioned, sending her plummeting to the ground at 55 mph. Miraculously, she survived—but with life-altering injuries, including multiple fractures, a punctured lung, and years of gruelling rehabilitation. Despite enduring over 25 surgeries and chronic pain, Carol refused to let tragedy define her. A professional fundraiser and adventurer at heart, she continues to embrace life—though skydiving is off the table. Her story is one of survival, resilience, and the power of the human spirit to rise after the fall.
Linda Faye Campbell McLean is a storyteller, podcast host, and author of Route 1-75: Memoir & Musings from My 75-Year Road Trip. Through her memoir and My 75-Year Road Trip podcast, she shares raw, honest, and often humorous reflections on resilience, loss, love, and the power of sisterhood.
A trailblazer in her community, Linda was the first female Rotary President in her Valley, a longtime volunteer, and the founder of the Comox Valley Women’s Business Network. From surviving breast cancer to navigating profound grief and unexpected detours, she inspires women to embrace their strength, share their stories, and step boldly into new chapters—no matter their age.
Hope Zvara is the CEO and founder of Mother Trucker Yoga and Road Relief Wellness, transforming truck driver health with simple, effective solutions. A trailblazer in a male-dominated industry, she has been featured in Forbes, PBS, and the Emmy-nominated StartUp.
After overcoming addiction and the loss of her first daughter, Hope turned pain into purpose, proving that small changes create a lasting impact. A sought-after speaker and SiriusXM guest, she is on a mission to help others reclaim their health and claim their space at the table.
Lori-Anne Toone, born and raised in Paradise, Newfoundland, is a dynamic force blending education, fitness, and family life. With degrees in Sociology, History, and Public Relations, she transitioned from corporate communications in Alberta's oil and gas industry to teaching at SAIT. A proud mom of two daughters, Lori-Anne has embraced life on and off the stage, competing in Mrs. Globe pageants and record-breaking bodybuilding competitions, including earning 10 awards at the CPA Alberta Summer Naturals in 2024. Now, as the founder of LAFit, she empowers women navigating perimenopause and menopause with personalized fitness and wellness coaching, inspiring others to thrive through life’s transitions.
Renee Exelbert is a two-time breast and skin cancer survivor, psychologist, personal trainer, and author of Chemo Muscles: Lessons Learned From Being a Psycho-Oncologist and Cancer Survivor. She empowers others to transform adversity into strength through the mind-body connection, blending positive thinking, exercise, and visualization. Passionate about resilience, Renee helps individuals overcome trauma, achieve their goals, and optimize their health—proving that with the right mindset, anything is possible.
Lola Reid Allin is a trailblazing commercial pilot, author, and advocate for women in aviation. Her journey from a bullied wife to soaring the skies is a testament to resilience and self-empowerment. Breaking free from an abusive marriage, Lola pursued her passion for flying in the 1980s, a time when women made up only 4% of commercial pilots. Defying societal norms, she became a symbol of courage and determination in a male-dominated industry. Through her memoir, HIGHWAY to the SKY, and her work with organizations like the Northern Lights Aero Foundation and the Ninety-Nines, Lola inspires women to challenge barriers, embrace their potential, and navigate life’s turbulence with confidence. Her story is not just about flying but about rising above adversity and leading others to their own skies.
Today, we’re honoured to share the incredible story of Cait Alexander. Cait’s journey is one of resilience and transformation after surviving a life-threatening attack by her ex-partner in 2021.
Despite the legal system’s failure to bring her attacker to justice, Cait channelled her pain into purpose, founding End Violence Everywhere (EVE) to advocate for survivors of intimate partner violence. Cait opens up about how her relationship spiralled into danger, the gaps in the system that left her vulnerable, and how she’s now leading initiatives to foster healing and change.
From rebuilding her life to launching impactful programs, Cait’s story is a testament to the power of strength and advocacy. Join us as we explore her journey, her mission, and the steps we can all take to support survivors and create a safer world.
Dr. Fidaa Wishah’s journey from a refugee camp in Gaza to a pediatric radiologist at Stanford’s Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital is a testament to resilience and hope. A top medical student at Jordan University of Science and Technology, she now blends cutting-edge expertise with deep empathy, shaped by her experiences in war-torn Gaza. A proud wife, mother of two, and marathon runner, Dr. Wishah finds strength in every step—whether in life, work or on the track. Her story inspires others to persevere, dream boldly, and heal through the union of science and humanity.
Di Katz-Shachar is a Master Fitness Trainer, entrepreneur, author, and speaker with nearly 20 years of experience transforming lives through holistic wellness. As the founder of Bodyholic and author of Rip It Up. For Good: Your Guide to the Best Shape of Your Life... Minus the Stress, she inspires individuals to achieve their fitness goals while finding balance and peace.
Living in Israel, Di balances life as a CEO, mother, and wife amidst the challenges of a turbulent region, drawing strength from community and resilience. Her journey is a testament to overcoming adversity, spreading a message of wellness for the mind, body, and soul, and finding light even in dark times.
Karina Gould is redefining leadership in Canada. As the first cabinet minister to give birth while in office, she broke barriers, setting a powerful example for women balancing careers and motherhood. Serving as the Member of Parliament for Burlington, Ontario, Karina has championed affordable childcare, gender equality, and inclusive communities, creating transformative opportunities for families across Canada. A mother, trailblazer, and advocate, Karina’s journey reflects resilience and a deep commitment to building a future where everyone has the chance to thrive.