Chatter that Matters

Today, we delve into the remarkable journey of Dr. Shahana Alibhai, a distinguished family physician and mental health advocate who focuses on youth from equity-deserving neighbourhoods. Shahana grew up in a family that had 72 hours to flee Uganda during the expulsion of Asian minorities under Idi Amin. She witnessed her parents' resilience, adaptability, and optimism in the face of extreme hardship. Her parents taught her the value of education, gratitude, and giving back.

Shahana discusses her struggles with her mental health, including OCD, eating disorders, excessive exercise, the pressures of academic achievement, and the profound impact of cultural and familial expectations. Her story is a testament to the importance of addressing mental health.

We also discuss her book Feel Better, endorsed by Mel Robbins. It is an insightful exploration of emotional health, offering practical tools to help individuals understand and manage their emotions. Dr. Shahana Alibhai provides a compassionate guide for navigating mental health challenges. You will learn about your Emotional Palette and practical strategies for integrating your physical, emotional, and mental health.

Whether you're dealing with your challenges or supporting others through theirs, this episode offers valuable insights into the importance of self-awareness, community support, and proactive mental health care.

To learn more about Dr. Alibhai, book her as a speaker, or purchase her book: https://drshahana.com]

Moments That Matter

1. [00:00:21] - Dr. Alibhai discusses the courage required to seek help and the connection it fosters. 2.[00:00:57] - Dr. Alibhai opens up about her mental health challenges. 3. [00:02:11] - A deeper look into how Dr. Alibhai defines her professional identity beyond her credentials. 4. [00:06:24] - The impactful story of Dr. Alibhai's parents' escape from Uganda and its influence on her values. 5. [00:10:38] - Dr. Alibhai speaks about the importance of self-acknowledgment and understanding one's worth. 6. [00:14:27] - Discussion on the critical role of education in Dr. Alibhai's family values. 7. [00:19:14] - The collaboration with Adrienne Gostick and the personal significance behind her book, *Feeling Better*. 8. [00:22:07] - Dr. Alibhai explains the clues each emotion provides and the importance of curiosity. 9. [00:27:28] - Introduction of the Optimal Health Pyramid and its components for a balanced life. 10. [00:36:15] - The concept of "joy stretching" and recognizing the small moments of joy in everyday life.

As the Paralympics light up Paris this week, with athletes from over 170 countries showcasing their incredible talents, I felt compelled to do a special show to honor their achievements. My journey led me to the inspiring story of Danielle Campo—someone who has never let her disability define her. Diagnosed with muscular dystrophy and once told she'd never walk, Danielle not only defied their predictions but went on to become a world record holder and an eight-time Paralympic medalist in swimming.

In 2021, Danielle faced an even bigger battle. This time, it wasn't in the pool but in a hospital bed, fighting against life-threatening sepsis. With just a ten percent chance of survival, she was even given her last rites. But just as she's done her entire life, Danielle fought back, turning pain into purpose.

Her story is one of faith, hope, and unmatched resilience. I weave Joel Dembe, a fellow Paralympian and celebrated keynote speaker, into the show. Joel provides context on Danielle's achievements and her will to survive and even offers her ideas on how to share her story on the conference stage.

To book Danielle Campo for a speaking engagement: https://www.daniellecampo.com

As the world eagerly anticipates the premiere of the new documentary on The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), I am thrilled to bring you an exclusive interview with Jake Gold, one of the world's music mavens, Canadian Idol Judge, and the legendary manager who played a pivotal role in shaping The Hip's iconic career. Jake Gold managed The Tragically Hip during their rise to fame, offering unparalleled insights into the band's journey, their chemistry, the genius of Gord Downie, and the music that moved the world.

Jake shares stories from the heart—what it was like to see the raw, untamed talent of Gord Downie and the band for the first time, how they crafted their unique sound, and the challenges they faced along the way. As we delve into their legacy and the deeply emotional moments surrounding Gord Downie's passing, Jake provides a behind-the-scenes look at how the band's music continues to resonate across generations.

Jake shares what he and others are doing to preserve their legacy, including this upcoming documentary.

Mark Thomas from RBC joins me to discuss their plans with TIFF. Spoiler alert: They include RBC House, RBC Red Carpet Gallery, Elton John: Never Too Late and Antonio Bocelli's documentary 'Because I Believe, and so much more.

The Tiff Premier is Thursday Sept 5, 2024

You can also watch it on Amazon Prime: September 20, 2024

In this heartfelt episode, I interview Jan Stewart, a mental health advocate, and author of Hold on Tight: A Parent's Journey Raising Children with Mental Illness. Jan shares her deeply personal journey of raising two neurodivergent children, Andrew and Ainsley, and the challenges her family has faced. From early signs of their children's struggles to navigating a complex healthcare system, Jan's story is one of resilience, love, and relentless advocacy. Despite the immense challenges, Jan finds strength in her family, community, and mission to help others facing similar situations. This episode is a powerful testament to the strength of parents who dedicate their lives to supporting their children through adversity.

To buy Jan Stewart's book: https://www.amazon.ca/Hold-Tight-Parents-Journey-Children/dp/1988025974

Ever wondered what it was like to live at Paul McCartney's place, or the band dynamics within the members of Rolling Stones? Find out in our exclusive Chatter That Matters episode where Prince Stash shares the 1960s counterculture and his time playing music and hanging out with members of the Beatles, The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, and many more.

A wonderful storyteller, Prince Stash, transports us to an era of radical change, creativity, and rebellion. His stories are not just memories but lessons in resilience, the pursuit of freedom, and the power of personal transformation.

Listeners will be drawn into a world where the boundaries between art, music, and culture collide and coincide.

(And this is only Part One)

How many of the world's creative thinkers - our songwriters, poets, comedians, and artists began life escaping from the reality of their life? One that I know is my guest this week. Aaron Starkman is one of the top 100 Creative Minds in Advertising, and the Chief Creative Officer of Rethink, a Canadian Agency that is recognized as the best in the world.

Aaron shares his journey from a challenging childhood to rising to the top while offering insights into the creative process and why processing it matters to one's life and livelihood.

Highlights of This Episode:

Uncovering the Creative Process: Explore the unique strategies that have propelled Rethink to the top of the advertising world.

From Trauma to Triumph: Learn how Aaron's early experiences shaped his resilience and fostered his creativity.

Mental Health and Personal Growth: Aaron's candid story about overcoming anxiety and what he had to do to find peace and clarity.

The Power of Insights: Discover the importance of seeing what others might overlook.

Setting the Conditions for Success: Understand how a process-driven approach leads to remarkable outcomes.

One of my favourite quotes is by Steve Jobs, who once said, "We're here to put a dent in the universe." I celebrate those who choose to do so, who overcome circumstances to chase their dreams and change their world and ours for the better. I'm thrilled to introduce my guest for today's episode: Jon Cornish.

Jon Cornish is a dynamic and multifaceted individual. As a former College and CFL star, he established himself as one of the most outstanding athletes in Canadian football history. Beyond his athletic prowess, Jon is deeply committed to community engagement and social impact. He and his wife co-founded the Calgary Black Chambers, an organization dedicated to supporting and empowering Black youth through mentorship, networking, and scholarship opportunities. As a financial advisor with RBC Dominion Securities, Jon helps his clients navigate the complexities of life and money matters. His mantra is 'Let's achieve your dreams, together'.

There are many insights for you to take away on your day today.

Highlights

1. [00:00:03] The Power of Impact - I open the show reflecting on how words, particularly "impact," shape" our world and introduce Jon Cornish as a prime example of a person whose life embodies this concept. 2. [00:01:17] Jon recounts his illustrious career in the CFL, emphasizing resilience and his impact on the field and within his team.

3. [00:02:05] Leadership as Chancellor: Jon discusses his role as the youngest Chancellor at the University of Calgary, focusing on how he leverages his position to create meaningful change in the academic community.

4. [00:03:02] Founding Calgary Black Chambers: Jon shares the vision and mission behind the Calgary Black Chambers, an organization he founded to support and mentor Black students and professionals.

5. [00:06:13] Early Life Influences: This section provides insights into Jon's childhood and his mother's role in inspiring Jon to do more and be more.

6. [00:09:27] Identity and Intersectionality: Jon discusses his experiences with identity and race and how these challenges shaped his character and mission to positively impact others.

7. [00:17:00] Financial Advisory Role: Jon talks about his work as a financial advisor, transitioning from sports. He focuses on helping clients align their finances with their dreams and aspirations, ensuring their financial plans have a lasting impact.

8. [00:22:13] Community Engagement: Jon's work, including his efforts at Alberta's Children's Hospital and Habitat for Humanity, highlights his commitment to giving back and impacting beyond his professional life.

9. [00:27:10] Mentorship and Empowerment: Stories of how Jon mentors young individuals, helping them achieve their goals and impact the world.

10. [00:34:55] Future Aspirations: Jon reflects on his goals and plans to continue making a significant impact through his various roles and initiatives.

And, of course, my three takeaways.

Dr. Brian Goldman is a veteran ER physician and an award-winning medical reporter for CBC Television's The Health Show and The National. He's known across Canada as CBC Radio One's "House Doctor." Brian has a proven knack for making sense of medical baffelgab. He has two top-rated shows, White Coat Black Art and The Dose.

On Chatter that Matters, Dr. Goldman shares his journey from a young medical resident to seasoned physician, and how, including the loss of his sister to dementia, he learned that medicine is as much about human connection as it is about clinical expertise. He also offers his thoughts on what need to happen to care for our health care.

Leanne Kaufman then joins the show to discuss the exciting work RBC Wealth Management is doing to support healthy ageing.

'Heaven is the Feeling One Leaves on Earth.'

Abandoned at Birth. Join me this week on Chatter that Matters for the heart-wrenching and uplifting story of Janet Sherlund, author of Abandoned at Birth: Searching for the Arms That Once Held Me. Janet discusses the profound effects of adoption on her identity and self-esteem, sharing her lifelong quest to reconnect with her birth parents and uncover who she is.

I cried when Janet discovered her adoption details, celebrated her life-changing reunion with her birth father and was sickened by the coldness of her birth mother. I also learned about the critical importance of understanding one's biological roots.

As the episode unfolds, Janet's courage, resilience, and the complexities of love and family will move you. Ending on hope and positivity, this conversation celebrates the bonds that tie us together and the enduring power of understanding where we come from.

This compelling episode will open your heart and touch your soul.

1. My opening

2. [00:01:23]: Janet describes the compulsion to reconnect with her birth mother.

3. [00:01:41]: Janet Sherlund discusses why she wrote her memoir.

4. [00:02:55]: Janet reads the prologue of her book, describing her drive to the adoption agency and her emotions.

5. [00:04:38]: Janet learns important facts from her adoption file.

6. [00:12:39]: Tony and Janet discuss her complicated relationship with her adoptive mother, Audrey.

7. [00:21:28]: Janet talks about the importance of biological roots and the strengths she discovered through her DNA.

8. [00:26:42]: The profound impact of meeting her birth father, Larry, and the unconditional love she experienced.

9. [00:31:07]: Janet explains her ongoing desire to connect with her birth mother and the rejection she felt when the meeting finally happened.

[00:43:22]: Reflections on the lessons from Janet's story, her adoptive and birth parents, and the powerful message about love and identity.

My three takeaways.

To connect with Janet and to buy her book, Abandonedatbirthbook.com

To build excitement for the Paris Olympics episode, I sit down with the inspirational Avalon Wasteneys, a Canadian Olympic Gold Medallist and a powerhouse in the rowing world. Avalon shares her journey from being raised in a family of world-renowned athletes to what it took to be part of a team that won Olympic Gold.

From her early days as a competitive cross-country skier to putting her oar into the water, Avalon's lane is powered by resilience, passion, and unwavering self-belief.

Avalon shares how she navigated ADHD, anxiety, and severe health issues like mono and chronic bronchitis to chase her dream.

My favourite quote from Avalon is:

'My 'why' isn't about being the best in the world but discovering what's possible and becoming the best version of myself.'

You will also hear from another Canadian phenom, Sam Effah, a two-time Canadian 100m Champion – turned brand marketer at RBC. Sam discusses what RBC is doing with the RBC Training Ground to help Canadian athletes pursue their dreams.

It's a fantastic episode to share with your entire family.

To learn more about RBC Training Ground, click here: https://www.rbctrainingground.ca.