In this episode, Michael Dargie connects with leadership coach, author, and former VP of Boston Pizza, Laura Darrell. From her new home in Mexico City, Laura shares the story of how she and her husband upended their successful corporate careers in Canada, packed up their lives—and their pets—and moved south to rediscover joy, purpose, and a better way of living.
What began as a break from the grind turned into a lifestyle. Along the way, Laura wrote a book titled The Great Resignation: How a Culture of Coaching and Appreciation Can Help You Win the War for Talent. Originally self-published, it caught the attention of Morgan James Publishing in New York and is now set for official release across North America.
Laura dives into her views on leadership, the fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic on work culture, and the values that guided her and her husband’s radical life shift. She offers insight into how Mexico has transformed their lives—from affordable, high-quality healthcare and vibrant community life to language immersion and daily trips to the tianguis (local market).
She’s not just adapting—she’s thriving, and she’s bringing a fresh, human-centred approach to leadership into the spotlight. Whether you’re stuck in a career that doesn’t align with your values or just fantasizing about a slower, richer life, Laura’s story is a testament to the power of saying yes to what truly matters.
“You just have to believe it’s possible.” – Laura Darrell
“Leadership is my jam.” – Laura Darrell
“The job of the leader is to bring people together.” – Laura Darrell
“You never know until you put it out there.” – Michael Dargie
“We all went through this bizarro time… did that really happen?” – Laura Darrell
Leaving Corporate Life | Laura and her husband retire early and move to Mexico City
Book Deal Surprise | Self-published book gets picked up by a New York publisher
COVID Reflection | Rediscovering each other and rethinking priorities during lockdown
The Big Move | Selling everything, flying to Mexico with pets and suitcases
Publisher Says “As Is” | Laura’s book required almost no edits
Living Like Locals | Immersing in Mexican culture and working toward citizenship
Learning Spanish | Committing daily to language learning
Tianguis Life | Buying fresh produce in street markets every week
Healthcare Wins | Private healthcare with door-to-door service for under $2,000/year
Medical Miracles | Laura’s mom gets an accurate diagnosis in under 5 hours for $800
Culture Shock | “People are friends here”—on community, connection, and joy
Eastern Europe Vibes | Laura shares her family roots and love for Eastern Europe
Leadership Advice | Get clear on your values to lead with integrity
Rebels in Waiting | Shift your mindset—don’t let the old tapes stop you
The Great Resignation on Amazon (https://www.amazon.ca/Great-Resignation-Coaching-Appreciative-Leadership/dp/1636983618)
Laura's Website (https://lauradarrellleadership.com)
Laura on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauradarrellleadership?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app)
Hosted by: Michael Dargie
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