Shows
Take Back My BrainHealing Addiction from Within: Mark Manderson on Recovery & the “Core Lie”Mark Manderson, leader of Pacific Shores Recovery, shares his personal journey with trauma and addiction. Discover his holistic approach to recovery, confronting the “core lie,” reshaping the brain, and creating safety for lasting transformation.----In this episode of Take Back My Brain, Laurie Hammer talks with Mark Manderson, leader of Pacific Shores Recovery, about viewing addiction not as a moral failure but as an invitation to heal. Mark shares his personal story, the importance of addressing the “core lie,” and his holistic approach to recovery that combines clinical care, safety, and family involvement.Listen...
2025-12-1235 min
Succession StoriesThe Sockfluencers: Spreading Happiness, John and Mark X. Cronin - The Entrepreneur Gene"We're in the business of making people happy!" John and Mark X. Cronin are father-son co-founders of John's Crazy Socks. Host Laurie Barkman talks with John and Mark about the inspiring story of their unique business model, inclusion, and commitment to spreading happiness. Over half of their employees have differing abilities. The discussion covers innovative approaches to customer satisfaction, success metrics, notable initiatives like the Unity Sock, and their role as advocates for people with disabilities. The episode also touches on their engaging community activities such as the weekly dance party and custom sock designs. Mark and J...
2025-10-0542 min
Fascinating WomenRoberta Nickel -Navygirl -Caregiver -Wiccan -Belly DancerSend us a textRoberta Nickel shares insights with Mark about her 18-plus years in the Canadian Navy, as the only woman in her unit. Her time as her mom’s caregiver led to her discovering a love of belly dancing. Into the mix was embracing the Society for Creative Anachronism, a medieval live events group, which was interestingly paired with her entry as a practising Wiccan. She relates dancing for her commanding officer on his 40th birthday. There is the unique experience of guiding a blind friend through every ride at the Calgary Stampede.
2025-09-2844 min
Lead From the HeartLaurie Santos: Yale’s Star Professor Brings the Science of Happiness & Well-Being to Work
Laurie Santos is one of the world’s leading voices on the science of happiness and well-being. She’s a psychology professor at Yale University, where her course Psychology and the Good Life became the most popular class in Yale’s 300-year history. So many students enrolled that the university had to move it to a concert hall to accommodate the crowds. Building on that success, Laurie created the online version—The Science of Well-Being—which has now been taken by millions worldwide, making her one of the most influential teachers on happiness anywhere.
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2025-09-2638 min
The Sipping Point: Wine, Food & More!Uncorking Australia: Mark Davidson on the Myths, Makers & Modern WinesWant to go to Tuscany with Laurie in October of 2026? email laurie@thewinecoach.com for a brochure and join us for an info session on 9/28 to find out more REGISTER HERE SummaryLaurie Forster sits down with Mark Davidson, one of the world’s leading experts on Australian wine, to bust common myths and dive into the country’s rich and evolving wine scene. Its not all Shiraz these days and Laurie introduces you to 2 of her favorite wines from down under. Mark reveals the diversity and complexity of Austr...
2025-08-2731 min
Fascinating WomenJackie Rainforth- Force Of Nature -Disruptor -Boundary PusherSend us a textJackie Rainforth is full of fresh insights and joy. She discusses her life, emphasizing her belief in living life to the fullest and her tendency to push boundaries. She is a disruptor and encourages it. She shares a story about defying her father's wishes to marry at 14, leading to a brief marriage and subsequent divorce. Jackie highlights her inspirations, particularly people who face fear and adversity. She values honesty, loyalty, transparency, and integrity. Jackie recounts her near-death diving experience and how it changed her life, making her more assertive. She also discusses the...
2025-07-1147 min
Fascinating WomenErin McDonald -Curious -Adventurous -Museum -CompassionSend us a textIn this episode, Erin shares her insights with Mark on how art mirrors society, the hidden influence of women’s history, and the importance of staying curious rather than judgmental. With heartfelt stories about her pioneering grandmothers, she illustrates the power of taking risks and finding true purpose. Erin’s thoughtful reflections on self-doubt, incremental progress, and the need for meaningful connection offer a refreshing perspective in a world often driven by surface-level interactions. Erin McDonald is a visionary leader, cultural strategist, and captivating speaker based in Ed...
2025-04-0945 min
Fascinating WomenKrista Rabipoux -Mom -Big Thinker -Creative Disruptor -StratigistSend us a textMark’s chat with Krista where the values of authenticity and resilience has gotten her, how her curiosity from a young age shifted society’s momentum from fear and seriousness to lightness. She explains what being a big thinker is and how she got there. Krista shares how her value of lifelong learning gave her continuous personal growth. Krista gets into her parenting style, part of which is letting her daughters make mistakes while freely exploring things. Branching into what their impact on the world might be. She shares her s...
2025-03-2644 min
Fascinating WomenHolly Singer: Biz Woman -Resilient -Intutive -Millinial -InnovatorSend us a textMark’s chat with Holly reveals a dynamic woman whose big blended family, with all its drama, has shaped her into an inspiring, resilient, and intuitive leader. The universe shifted from a nursing to a bold candle business. Her rallying cry is progress over perfection. Holly talks about experimenting with a four-day workweek and then moving it company-wide. She found that even short meditations for her busy mind changed her profoundly. She has learned to trust her instincts and act decisively. Yet, people call her lucky. (Hint: It's not that that is w...
2025-03-1249 min
Stark Reflections on Writing and PublishingThe Visible Author Method of Marketing with Laurie CooperMark interviews Laurie Cooper, an award-winning speaker, and an author coach and marketing expert, who helps fiction authors go from struggling, feeling invisible and not knowing what to do next, to finding and connecting with their ideal readers. Prior to the interview, Mark shares a word about this episode's sponsor. Learn more about Toronto Indie Author Conference 2025 here. In their conversation, Mark and Laurie talk about: The round-about way that Laurie got into the role of becoming a marketing coach for authors Starting off as a virtual assistant...
2025-02-2143 min
Fascinating WomenCatherine Brownlee -Introvert -Distruptor -Entrepreneur -VolunteerSend us a textCatherine Brownlee discusses her journey from a young introvert to a successful, extroverted professional. Influenced by her father's wisdom and mentorship, she entered the oil and gas industry through volunteering. Catherine emphasizes the importance of authenticity, networking, and constant learning. She shares her beliefs in optimism, human goodness, and the search for love. Catherine's pivotal moments include her father's accident, her sister's death, and her father's guidance posthumously. She advocates for disruption, health through diet and exercise, and the significance of deep, meaningful connections.CATHERINE BROWNLEE Bio
2025-02-1246 min
Fascinating WomenRose of Tralee - Katie Dooley- International Irish event -West Canada ChapterSend us a textThe Rose of Tralee - shared by Katie Dooley the Western Canadian Chair. Any Irish blood in your veins? Even if it is a small %, you can enter. Katie tells us about the event, from firsthand experience. It starts with a wild March weekend with the winner going to Ireland. It is a pretty big deal. Take a listen. Let anyone with some Irish blood knowAbout The Rose of Tralee, As one of the Center Coordinators for the Western Canada Rose of Tra...
2025-02-0632 min
Fascinating WomenJane Duncan -Dancer - Transitions -Educator -IndependanceSend us a textJane Duncan, a 67-year-old dancer and educator, shares insights on her life and careers. She always knew she was a dancer, starting when she was 11. For her, dance was a healing and power source. While she cherished it, always seeing herself as a dancer, she changed careers, got degrees and flourished. She shares her mentors and how they changed her life. She now volunteers with an organization that accredits fire organizations. All her life lessons she lays out. Jane Duncan: Dancer, Educator, Contributor As is the case for...
2025-01-3045 minTake Back My BrainEP 96: Can You Forgive Without Forgetting: Mark Arens on Finding Freedom Through ForgivenessIn this episode, I’m thrilled to sit down with Mark Arens, founder of Little Big Things and author of Cure the Cancer of Unforgiveness. We explore the transformative power of forgiveness—what it truly means, the challenges it brings, and how it can free us from the weight of the past.
Mark shares practical strategie, including how to overcome barriers to forgiveness and the differences between forgiving, forgetting, and reconciling. This conversation is very impactful and I know you’ll gain so much from it.
Tune in and take the first step toward healing and a m...
2024-12-2739 min
Fascinating WomenHenriette van Ittersum - Immigrant -Traveler -Volunteer -ArtSend us a textHenriette shares how being an introvert made immigrating from Holland at 35 with young children a bigger challenge than for most. She had language issues and job difficulties. Her family stepped away from religion, to the disapproval of her Holland family. She talks about how naive they were about Canada. The evolution of beliefs, personal growth and resilience. Her passion for cars. Her unique volunteer work helping new mothers care for twins and triplets. It is a unique and diverse conversation with many insights on an immigrant’s view of Canada and belonging.
2024-12-1846 min
Fascinating WomenKatie Dooley- Irish Rose- Biz owner- World TravelerSend us a textKatie shares some personal insights with Mark. She tells about life advice a babysitter gave her 10-year-old self that still guides her. How a dancing instructor became a role model for a designer. Her love and advice on travelling as a single woman. Katie shares the power of being nice, giving back, and working hard. The personality traits she cherishes and those she wishes she had. Katie even talked about a plan for an extensive, well-designed obituary. This chat is funny and unexpected at times but always insightful. Katie Dooley Bio
2024-12-0447 min
Fascinating WomenJennifer Keable - Burnout- Mom - Entrepreneur- CoachSend us a textMark chats with Jennifer Keable, a heart-led entrepreneur passionate about redefining success and a work-life balance that avoids burnout. Jennifer shares her journey from corporate burnout to being life-centred in her most exciting new version of her. Jennifer shares her terror and the power of saying no to reclaim control of her time and energy. Mark explores how her daily breath work and meditation opened her emotional awareness. They chat about her core beliefs and how they have served her and matched her mentors. Mark and Jennifer get...
2024-11-2045 min
Fascinating WomenLaura Watson - International Business Coach- Ballroom Dancer- Communicator- ParentSend us a textIn this episode of Fascinating Women, Mark chats with Laura Watson, a business coach, competitive ballroom dancer, and expert communicato. She shares her journey of personal growth, driven by her desire to serve and lead others. She reflects on the guiding beliefs that shape her life, including the importance of service and walking her talk, even in difficult conversations. Laura reveals how ballroom dancing and a nude portrait session with Mark stretched her comfort zone. In dancing she rose to world champion trophy holder. She also discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship...
2024-10-0148 min
Fascinating WomenLara Jickles: Wild Child -Mom -Biz Owner -Fitness TrainerSend us a textIn this captivating episode of *Fascinating Women*, Mark Laurie sits down with his long-time friend, Lara Jickles, for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation. Lara opens up about the profound experiences that have shaped her, including the tragic loss of her baby sister and how it fueled her rebellious spirit. From her adventures as an international nude model and high-wire suspension worker to her current role as a personal trainer and district manager for Arbonne, Lara's journey is anything but ordinary. She shares her insights on the importance of self-acceptance, a positive m...
2024-08-1444 min
Fascinating WomenJennifer Strukoff - Yoga Master -Mom - AutisticChild -PhilosphySend us a textJennifer discusses personal growth, inspiration, and mindfulness. Shes shared experiences on embracing challenges, taking risks, and overcoming imposter syndrome. Jennifer emphasizes the value of education and healing, going deeply into her yoga philosophy and Buddhist teachings. She discusses navigating the gray area of life and business, with a focus on self-confidence and mindfulness. Jennifer talks about her challenges of modelling and the importance of breathwork in finding meaning and fulfillment.Jennifer works as a Registered Massage Therapist and Lymphatic Drainage Therapist in Calgary, Chestermere and Langdon. She can offer cupping at...
2024-08-0747 min
Fascinating WomenMichelle Bylow- Entrepreneur -artist -Philosopher -Advocate for ArtistsSend us a textMichelle shares her approaches to overcoming fear and cultivating discipline in pursuit of goals. She emphasized the importance of purpose, self-improvement, and embracing uncertainty. Michelle relates her experience transitioning from athlete to entrepreneur, highlighting the value of creative outlets and community involvement. We discuss the challenges of being an artist and entrepreneur. Michelle talks openly about her hardest lesson, her first (and only) business failure. Throughout the conversation, she emphasized the importance of empathy, kindness, and discipline in creative pursuits and personal livesMichelle BioI'm a highly motivated...
2024-07-3143 min
The Awake Space with Laurie Rivers PodcastRadical Acts Of Healing with Mark JonesIn S4 Ep 28 of the popular talk show, The Awake Space Astrology Podcast host Laurie Rivers kickstarts your week with strategies for dealing with the volatile energy of the Mars-Uranus conjunction forming until it perfects on the 15th of July 2024.
Mark Jones is Laurie's special guest, Jones is an astrologer and a therapeutic ally who promotes the ideals of the astrologer holding a sacred space in the client's healing journey. This is part one of a deep and intimate conversation about the importance of astrology in the development of the theories of the great psychologists Carl Jung...
2024-07-081h 13
Fascinating WomenKeziah Arsenault- Fire master -Reiki Master- Shamanic healer- PassionateSend us a textKeziah Arsenault's journey is one of resilience, transformation, and fire—literally. In this captivating episode of the Fascinating Women podcast, Keziah shares how she evolved from a controlled upbringing to embracing her true passions. With a background in biological sciences, psychology, and veterinary medicine, she discovered her love for fire performance and became a prominent figure in the field. Keziah talks about the importance of pursuing one's passions, breaking free from societal expectations, and continuously seeking new experiences. Her story is a testament to the power of adaptability and following your intuition. Don't mi...
2024-07-0244 min
Fascinating WomenDr Sandra Schur - Clairvoyant- Aura Field Reader- Chiropractor- Entrepreneur- Happyness creatorSend us a textMark chats with Dr. Sandra Shur. She talks about discovering her ability to read aura fields and how she went from a Chiropractor to an entrepreneur and then aura fields. She lays out the struggles, the forces that shaped her and how she came to embrace her gifts. She gets into challenges and high points. Why she likes it so much Sandra Schur bioDr. Sandra Schur, an auric field consultant, offers a unique approach to her clients. She uses her skill of reading the...
2024-06-2740 min
Beyond Wealth: Success UnscriptedNude and Boudoir Photographer Mark LaurieWelcome back to "Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted with Matt Calnan"! In this episode, we have the pleasure of chatting with Mark Laurie, a renowned nude and boudoir photographer and the owner of Inner Spirit Photography. With over 45 years of experience, Mark shares his journey from real estate to photography and his passion for empowering women through his art. He discusses the evolution of his career, the challenges he faced, and the unique approaches he uses in his studio to create a safe and empowering environment for his clients.
Mark also opens up about his creative process, the...
2024-06-1934 min
Fascinating WomenClaudia Martens -Trainer-Speaker -Confidence Builder -FocusedSend us a textWelcome to another episode of "Fascinating Women" with Mark Laurie. In this engaging conversation, Mark sits down with Claudia Martens, a dynamic public speaker and mentor with a rich background in empowering voices. Claudia shares her journey from a second-generation Chinese-Canadian navigating early life challenges in Calgary, to becoming a powerful advocate for confident public speaking. She dives into the importance of making purposeful choices, the impact of meaningful actions, and how her mentors have shaped her path. Whether you're looking for inspiration, practical advice, or a fresh perspective, this episode offers valuable...
2024-05-2951 min
Fascinating WomenNiki Middleton - Actor-Model-Spokeswoman-Entrepreneur-IndigenousSend us a textNiki is a woman who arrived the hard way. She does not back down; she goes forward with her rules. Niki sees challenges rather than failure. Her version of success is not money-based but goal-based. She constantly goes against the grain, succeeding in places most said she should not even try. Her resume is international, and she is recognized for a variety of accomplishments. She is an indigenous woman but refuses to use her heritage for leverage. Everything she has earned she earned on her own merits. Niki bio N...
2024-05-1542 min
Fascinating WomenLuann Horobin - Mind Shift- Life Transitions - EmpowermentSend us a textIn this riveting episode of "Fascinating Women," Mark Laurie invites Luann Horobin, a seasoned expert in personal and career transformation, to share her journey of resilience and empowerment. With her roots in Alberta, Luann's spontaneous plunge into the stock market and her transformative experiences in healthcare and personal life shine a light on the power of embracing change. Luann details how unexpected life shifts, including a career upheaval and becoming a single mom, propelled her to redefine her professional path. Her stories underscore the importance of a positive mindset, the strength f...
2024-05-0848 min
Fascinating WomenPhoenix Starchild - Resilience - Divine Awakening - Authentic Healer - Personal TruthSend us a textEmbark on a riveting journey with Phoenix Starchild, a woman whose resilience shines through a tapestry of life trials and profound transformations. From a secluded, small-town upbringing to a life marked by trials and revelations, Phoenix's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the pursuit of truth. Discover her courageous transition from facing personal turmoil to seeking and embracing divine interventions, leading her toward healing and self-discovery. Through her exploration of love over fear and her dedication to helping others, Phoenix embodies a message of hope and empowerment. Her evolution...
2024-03-2047 min
The Rising LeaderEmpowering Leadership: A Deep Dive into The Rising Leader Handbook with Laurie ArronToday, I'm honored to have Laurie Arron join me for an in-depth exploration of leadership development and emotional resilience. We delve into the philosophies detailed in my book, "Rising Leader Handbook," and discuss how these strategies can be implemented daily. Laurie shares her insights and experiences, reinforcing the idea that empowering yourself with the right tools and mindset is critical to becoming a competent and successful leader.Laurie Arron is an executive coach with over 27 years of experience at AT&T and a former Chief of Staff to senior executives. Laurie brings her deep...
2024-02-2841 min
Fascinating WomenDana Macintosh -Bold -Fearless -Kindness -The Retired viewSend us a textIn this captivating episode of "Fascinating Women" with host Mark Laurie, we journey through the life of Dana McIntosh, a woman whose story is as diverse as it is inspiring. Born in Winnipeg and raised in England, Dana's life took a turn when she visited Calgary during the 1988 Winter Olympics. Years later, remembering how she fell in love with the city, she made a bold move, leaving her life in London to start anew in Canada. Dana shares her experiences of working in the high-octane world of advertising in London during the 80...
2024-01-3144 min
Fascinating WomenWendy Winder - Optimist - Life balance - Creative - Marketer- EntrepreneurSend us a textJoin us on "Fascinating Women with Mark Laurie" as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Wendy Winder, a beacon of positivity and a master of marketing strategy. Wendy shares her life's guiding principles, including the power of positivity, the importance of giving generously, the pursuit of continuous learning, and the joy of collaboration. Discover how her mentors shaped her journey, the influence of her family, and her approach to overcoming challenges with a growth mindset.Wendy's journey from corporate roles to entrepreneurship is a story of resilience, adaptability, and the...
2024-01-2449 min
Fascinating WomenCharmaine Muzyka -Entrepreneur -Designer -Creator -Innovator -TrailblazerSend us a textDiscover the captivating journey of Charmaine Muzyka on this week's episode of "Fascinating Women with Mark Laurie." Charmaine, an embodiment of creativity and resilience, shares her inspiring story from childhood challenges to becoming a successful entrepreneur and designer. Raised by a single mother and influenced by entrepreneurial parents, she navigated through life with a blend of independence and creativity. From her early experiences on a Saskatchewan acreage to her adventures in art and design, Charmaine's story is a beacon of inspiration for women everywhere. Her insights into balancing personal life with a thriving...
2024-01-1746 min
Fascinating WomenAngela Bain - Single Mom - Personal Trainer - YogaSend us a textThis episode is sponsored by http://InnerSpiritPhoto.com Create your story with them.Angela shares her story. From a journey as young hairdresser to a fitness expert embodies resilience and transformation. Angela shares her experiences of personal challenges, including motherhood at a young age, a bold move to California, and overcoming profound personal losses. Tune in to be inspired by her journey of self-discovery and perseverance."Angela Bain BioAngela Bain's life story is a remarkable tale of resilience and transformation. Starting as a young hairdresser, she pivoted t...
2024-01-1045 minThe Rising LeaderMaximizing the Impact of a Chief of Staff: Insights from a Top Executive Coach with Laurie Arron In this week's episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Laurie Aron, the founder of Aron Coaching LLC and author of the book "Who Has Your Back? A Leader's Guide to Getting the Support You Need from the Chief of Staff You Deserve." We delved into the vital role of a chief of staff and how they can be a trusted advisor to CEOs. Laurie shared valuable insights on the qualities of a successful chief of staff, the importance of being a candid truth-teller, and their impact on a leader's effectiveness. ...
2024-01-1032 min
Fascinating WomenMaggie Lam- Risk taker - Single mom - ImmigrantSend us a textIn this engaging episode of "Fascinating Women," host Mark Laurie sits down with Maggie Lam, a woman of diverse experiences and profound insights; Maggie is a risk taker in spite of her parents teaching her compliance. Originally from Hong Kong, Maggie shares her journey of moving to Canada, embracing new challenges, and navigating life as a solo parent. Her story is a tapestry of resilience, adventure, and personal growth, offering listeners a unique perspective on embracing change and overcoming obstacles. She talks about her business failures and successes and challenges of be...
2024-01-0346 min