Discover Fresh Perspectives

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Welcome to Discover Fresh Perspectives. In this episode, David Gouthro sits down with guest Jim Moller, a Certified Human Resource Professional (CHRP) with nearly two decades of experience in HR and labour relations. Together, they explore the subtle ways organizations—and individuals—quietly collapse long before they fail outright.

Jim shares insights from his books and research on workplace toxicity, the normalization of dysfunction, and the challenges leaders face in recognizing and addressing early warning signs. The conversation delves into the importance of curiosity and courage in leadership, the pitfalls of ignoring ambiguous problems, and practical steps managers can take to foster psychological safety, encourage open dialogue, and prevent systemic breakdowns.

Whether you're a leader, an HR professional, or anyone interested in organizational health, this episode offers actionable advice and fresh perspectives on creating resilient, people-centred workplaces.

A Bit About Jim Moller, CHRP

Jim Moller is someone who understands the quiet struggles that can happen behind the scenes, both within organizations and in our personal lives. To the outside world, Jim might appear highly successful—always bringing projects to completion and constantly supporting others. However, he knows firsthand how easy it is to put self-care on hold, always promising to address his own needs after the next deadline or after helping someone else.

But as those moments are continuously postponed, self-trust can erode, and self-care is neglected. Jim recognizes that, just like individuals, organizations often miss early warning signs of trouble because those signs are often ambiguous. He draws from these experiences to remind others—and himself—of the importance of acting before small issues become bigger problems, encouraging both leaders and individuals to listen more closely to their own needs and to subtle signals around them.

Jim's LinkedIn Profile

Jim's Website

Jim's Books:

1. BeMoreHuman: Leadership Lessons in the Work of Being Human

A leadership book about restoring the human experience of work by showing that people remember presence, humility, intention, trust, clarity, and emotional steadiness more than title, authority, or technical competence.

Sequence: Presence → Humility → Intention, moving from how leaders show up, to how they own impact, to how they create safer, clearer, more aligned cultures.

2. Be More Human: The Inner Work of Becoming

A deeper inner life book about recognizing the hidden patterns that shaped you, returning to what is true, and building a life that feels congruent rather than merely functional.

Sequence: See → Return → Build, moving from self recognition, to reconnection, to constructing a life truth can actually live inside.

3. Be More Human: The Courage to Believe

A personal restoration book for people who have lost certainty, carried too much, questioned the life they built, and need to rebuild faith without pretending everything is fine.

Sequence: When Certainty Breaks → What We Believe Beneath the Surface → Relearning Faith → Becoming Again, moving from collapse of certainty to renewed self trust and inner return.

4. The Invisible Order

A systems and stewardship book arguing that every organization operates through both a visible formal system and an invisible emotional, relational, and somatic order that determines whether people can speak, trust, align, and work without bracing.

Sequence: Architecture of Absence → Mechanics of Silence → Internal Governance → Navigational Return → Building Sustainable Truth, moving from drift recognition to restored congruence and stewardship.

5. The Quiet Collapse

An organizational failure book showing that breakdown rarely begins with a dramatic event, but with small signals that are tolerated, delayed, normalized, and only understood after consequences appear.

Sequence: Signal → Tolerance → Silence → Delay → Normalization → Event → Reaction → Hindsight, giving leaders a practical early warning model for catching failure before it becomes public.

Each stage represents a structural shift:

6. NO STATE. NO MOVEMENT.

A hard systems doctrine book about governability, arguing that collapse begins when systems continue moving after the state conditions required to legitimize that movement can no longer be verified.

Sequence: Recognition → Laws of Movement → Continuation Engine → Operational Reconstruction → System Autopsies → Machine Continuation → Operational Deployment, moving from structural recognition to enforceable interruption architecture.

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You can connect with David Gouthro at:

• Website:https://davidgouthro.com/  (where you can also subscribe to my Blog)
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgouthro/

NOTE: If you wish to join in the podcast fun, please click here to book your own episode with me: https://calendly.com/gouthro/podcast-pals!

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Welcome to another episode of Discover Fresh Perspectives. Today, David Gouthro sits down with Louise Lydon, a dedicated occupational therapist with over 25 years of experience in arthritis and ergonomics.

Their conversation explores the often misunderstood role of occupational therapy, the vital distinction from physiotherapy, and how OTs empower individuals to regain independence and self-management after illness, injury, or with chronic conditions.

From adaptive aids and prevention strategies to the challenges of accessing OT services and navigating health misinformation online, Louise Lydon shares valuable insights and practical advice for anyone looking to improve their quality of life.

Whether you’re curious about healthy aging, preparing for surgery, or simply want to know how to advocate for better health care, this episode will give you fresh perspectives on how small changes—and the right support—can make a big difference.

A Bit About Louise Lydon

Louise Lydon has always embraced her role as an occupational therapist, even if it meant having to explain what exactly she does. In her province, where occupational therapy isn’t widely understood, Louise often found that people confused her work with that of a physiotherapist. Her mother, doing her best to clarify, would tell others, “She’s like a physio, but she’s not.”

For Louise, the heart of her profession lies in problem solving; she simply describes occupational therapists as “professional problem solvers.” Through her career, Louise has dedicated herself to making everyday life easier for her clients, bringing a creative and resourceful approach to each new challenge she faces.

Louise's Website

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You can connect with David Gouthro at:

• Website:https://davidgouthro.com/  (where you can also subscribe to my Blog)
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgouthro/

NOTE: If you wish to join in the podcast fun, please click here to book your own episode with me: https://calendly.com/gouthro/podcast-pals!

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Welcome back to Discover Fresh Perspectives. Today, host David Gouthro sits down with special guest Liz Doyle Harmer for a compelling conversation about the often-overlooked art of self leadership. Drawing on wisdom from classic resources like Stephen Covey and real-world experiences as a coach, facilitator, and parent of four, Liz Doyle Harmer explores what it means to lead oneself in today's distraction-filled culture.

Together, they discuss the key differences between self-leadership and traditional leadership, the impact of inner critics, and how self compassion and high personal standards can shape both our own lives and the ways we influence others. Whether you're a parent, a team leader, or simply someone striving for personal growth, this episode offers actionable insights on creating an authentic vision for your life, increasing self-awareness, and building daily habits that empower you to lead yourself—and, ultimately, others—more effectively.

A Bit About Liz Doyle Harmer

Liz Doyle Harmer is a passionate advocate for self-leadership, emphasizing its critical importance in today's often distracting culture. Reflecting on Stephen Covey's timeless classic, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, Liz points to the enduring value of the first three habits, all centred on leading oneself.

She believes that, despite society's increasing distractions and temptations to focus elsewhere, the foundational skills of self-leadership remain as relevant and challenging now as they were decades ago. Through her work and insights, Liz inspires others to cultivate meaningful practices that bring direction and fulfillment to their lives.

Liz Doyle Harmer's LinkedIn Profile

Liz Doyle Harmers Website

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You can connect with David Gouthro at:

• Website:https://davidgouthro.com/  (where you can also subscribe to my Blog)
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgouthro/

NOTE: If you wish to join in the podcast fun, please click here to book your own episode with me: https://calendly.com/gouthro/podcast-pals!

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Welcome to another episode of Discover Fresh Perspectives! This week, David Gouthro sits down with guest Phil Solman for a dynamic and heartfelt dive into the world of music, memory, creativity, and community. Phil shares stories from his early musical awakenings in Coventry, UK, his fascination with the influential yet often overlooked band Sparks, and how music shaped his personal and creative journey.

The conversation explores the deeper impacts of music—its political power, its influence on our senses, and its evolving role amid technological shifts like social media and AI. They also discuss the changing landscape for musicians, the resurgence of analog formats like vinyl, and the collaborative spirit behind new platforms such as subvert.fm.

Alongside these insights, Phil reveals his passion for fostering community as a manager at local farmers markets. Tune in for a wide-ranging, uplifting exchange about the meaning, memories, and social dimensions of the music we love.

A Bit About Phil

Phil Solman grew up as a self-described "geeky boy with fuzzy hair and glasses" in Coventry, a post-industrial city in the UK. Although music was present in his life, it didn’t hold a special allure—until one Thursday night, when he tuned in to the popular TV show Top of the Pops.

On that evening, an unusual band called Sparks took the stage and completely transformed Phil’s relationship with music. While Sparks might be an obscure name to some, that performance left an indelible mark on young Phil, igniting a deep and lasting passion for music that would help shape his life and interests.

Subvert FM [Phil's profile page on the music platform owned by its community]

Link to a free song: Dear America (A Breakup Song)

Phil's LinkedIn Page

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You can connect with David Gouthro at:

• Website:https://davidgouthro.com/  (where you can also subscribe to my Blog)
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgouthro/

NOTE: If you wish to join in the podcast fun, please click here to book your own episode with me: https://calendly.com/gouthro/podcast-pals!

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Welcome to another episode of Discover Fresh Perspectives! Today, David Gouthro is joined by image consultant Katherine Lazaruk for a deep dive into the world of personal style, image, and the powerful relationship we have with our closets. With over 17 years of experience, Katherine goes beyond fashion trends and surface-level advice, helping clients align their outward appearance with their true selves and personal aspirations.

In this conversation, Katherine explains her unique, transformative approach—rooted in character, congruence, and choice—and shares how image work can be a profound act of self-care and self-expression. Whether through group coaching or bespoke, individualized programs, she empowers people to discover their signature style, overcome challenges around confidence and visibility, and even navigate major life transitions.

Tune in as David and Katherine explore common myths about image, practical scenarios, and actionable insights—from overcoming closet frustration to tips for thrifting with purpose. It's an inspiring discussion that challenges the notion of image as superficial, revealing how it can fuel our growth, visibility, and success.

A Bit About Katherine

Katherine Lazaruk believes that great style starts from within. Unlike traditional personal shoppers or stylists, she begins by exploring who her clients are, what they want in life, and the goals they wish to achieve.

Katherine takes into account their environment, industry, and lifestyle, guiding them to make clothing choices that support their ambitions. Her comprehensive approach ensures that each outfit is a true reflection of her clients’ unique personalities and helps them feel empowered in every aspect of their lives.

Katherine's Website

Katherine's LinkedIn Page

Katherine's YouTube Channel

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You can connect with David Gouthro at:

• Website:https://davidgouthro.com/  (where you can also subscribe to my Blog)
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgouthro/

NOTE: If you wish to join in the podcast fun, please click here to book your own episode with me: https://calendly.com/gouthro/podcast-pals!

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Welcome back to Discover Fresh Perspectives. In this episode, host David Gouthro sits down with Carrie Sackett, known as America's loneliness coach. Together, they delve into what loneliness really means, how it's different from simply being alone, and why our modern culture has cultivated such widespread feelings of disconnection.

Carrie shares her expertise in life and relationship coaching, blending insights from her group work, practical tools for tackling loneliness, and stories from her own experience. Whether it’s building community, developing “relational muscles,” or finding courage to reach out, this episode offers actionable advice for anyone looking to feel more connected in a lonely world. Stay tuned for a thought-provoking conversation packed with fresh perspectives on human connection.

A Bit About Carrie

Carrie Sackett is a thoughtful observer of modern life, keenly interested in the roots of loneliness in contemporary society. Drawing on research and cultural commentary, she explores how factors like the Covid pandemic, increased reliance on technology, the erosion of community organizations, and families living far apart all contribute to rising isolation.

But Carrie looks deeper than surface explanations, highlighting the Western—particularly Anglo—cultural assumption that individuals are solely responsible for their own loneliness. She questions the notion that feeling isolated is a personal failing to be solved alone, instead inviting her audience to reconsider the structures, expectations, and narratives that shape our sense of connection and belonging.

Carrie's Website

Carrie's LinkedIn Profile

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You can connect with David Gouthro at:

• Website:https://davidgouthro.com/  (where you can also subscribe to my Blog)
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgouthro/

NOTE: If you wish to join in the podcast fun, please click here to book your own episode with me: https://calendly.com/gouthro/podcast-pals!

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to Discover Fresh Perspectives! I’m David Gouthro and in today’s episode I’m joined by Kathy Jourdain, a seasoned consultant and facilitator from Nova Scotia with over 25 years of experience helping individuals and organizations better understand themselves and each other.

Together, we dive deep into the concept of “worldview”—those invisible lenses that shape how we perceive, communicate, and react to the world around us. Kathy unravels what a worldview truly is, how it is formed through our upbringing, relationships, and environment, and describes a practical six-point framework for examining and even shifting our perspectives.

Through real-life examples, brain science, and insights from years of facilitating transformative conversations, we’ll learn how understanding our own and others’ worldviews can foster awareness, bridge divides, and create more meaningful connections at work and in our communities.

So whether you’re looking to enhance your self-awareness, navigate tough conversations, or simply want to see the world with fresh eyes, this episode is for you. Let’s begin our journey into the fascinating landscape of worldviews!

A Bit About Kathy Jourdain

Kathy Jourdain is a thoughtful facilitator and educator who explores how our unique worldviews shape the way we experience life. Alongside her US-based partner, Kathy began her journey by helping people reflect on the powerful, often unconscious lenses through which we see and relate to the world.

She believes worldviews influence how we communicate, build relationships, and handle conflict, often in ways we don't even realize. Through her work, Kathy encourages individuals to step back, ask deep questions about their own perspectives, and discover how understanding worldviews can lead to greater awareness and connection.

Looking for More Information?

• a link to Kathy's info website: https://worldviewintelligence.com/
• a link to the e-learning platform: https://www.worldviewprograms.com/
• a report on the New Geography of Work: https://www.worldviewprograms.com/the-new-geography-of-work
• areport on the Human Side of AI Adoption: https://www.worldviewprograms.com/human-side-of-AI-adoption
• a few video links:
  • Brief intro to worldviews and Worldview Intelligence
  • Intro to Worldview Intelligence for All: https://youtu.be/sE72J3mw6Mk
  • Adaptability and intuitiveness of the 6 dimensions framework - https://youtu.be/T8N9epSTTEU
  • origins of the 6 dimensions framework: https://youtu.be/125Us3fvtTk
• Kathy's linked in profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathyjourdain/
• a link to the student platform - Riipon https://www.riipen.com/

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You can connect with David Gouthro at:

• Website:https://davidgouthro.com/  (where you can also subscribe to my Blog)
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgouthro/

NOTE: If you wish to join in the podcast fun, please click here to book your own episode with me: https://calendly.com/gouthro/podcast-pals!

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Welcome to another episode of Discover Fresh Perspectives. This week, David Gouthro sits down with Dr. Ken Haycock, an experienced board chair and governance expert, to explore the essential–and often misunderstood–role of governance in not-for-profit organizations.

Drawing on his extensive experience leading boards in education, the arts, and community sectors, Ken shares insights into what makes a board truly effective, why community impact should be at the heart of board service, and how responsibilities differ between not-for-profit and for-profit boards.

Together, they unpack key myths about governance, discuss common pitfalls like unclear board roles and dysfunctional dynamics, and reveal practical strategies for building high-performing, community-focused boards.

Whether you’re a seasoned board member, considering joining a not-for-profit board, or simply curious about the engine that drives social impact, this conversation offers candid advice, real-life stories, and actionable takeaways to help boards fulfill their mission and serve their communities more effectively.

A Bit About Dr. Haycock

Ken Haycock is the author of "Governance is Leadership," a popular Substack newsletter followed by hundreds of engaged readers each week. Drawing on his extensive experience as a school board chair, municipal council member, arts board leader, and chief officer, Ken shares practical insights to inform, inspire, and occasionally challenge his audience.

Through his writing, he highlights the transformative potential of boards in community development, emphasizing the importance of clear roles and strong relationships between boards and their executive leaders.

Contact/Resources Information

Ken's LinkedIn

Ken's Substack

Ken's Website

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You can connect with David Gouthro at:

• Website:https://davidgouthro.com/  (where you can also subscribe to my Blog)
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgouthro/

NOTE: If you wish to join in the podcast fun, please click here to book your own episode with me: https://calendly.com/gouthro/podcast-pals!

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Discover Fresh Perspectives, we sit down with Linh Huynh, whose journey from war-torn Vietnam to small-town Alberta exemplifies resilience, curiosity, and the courage to carve your own path.

As the seventh of eight children in a family that survived conflict, perilous migration, and stark adversity, Linh shares how her upbringing shaped an insatiable drive for adventure and self-discovery—whether that meant being the first in her lineage to earn a university degree or setting audacious goals like running marathons at both the North and South Poles.

In a conversation full of warmth, wisdom, and humour, Linh reveals her approach to manifesting dreams, overcoming naysayers, and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible—from extreme running challenges to writing a memoir and beyond. Get ready to be inspired by a story of grit, gratitude, and relentless curiosity.

A Bit About Linh

Linh Huynh’s story begins with a moment of bold decision: when faced with uncertainty, Linh’s parents chose to leave everything behind, boarding naval ships bound from Saigon. There, in makeshift refugee camps, they started their lives anew. Young and ambitious, they found odd jobs, working tirelessly to support their growing family. Linh’s mother had her first child soon after their arrival, and by 1955, she welcomed her eighth. Through perseverance and resilience, Linh’s family survived and thrived, laying the foundation for future generations.

Linh's Website at Sparking Wonder Creations

Linh's LinkedIn

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You can connect with David Gouthro at:

• Website:https://davidgouthro.com/  (where you can also subscribe to my Blog)
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgouthro/

NOTE: If you wish to join in the podcast fun, please click here to book your own episode with me: https://calendly.com/gouthro/podcast-pals!

Send us Fan Mail

Welcome to another episode of Discover Fresh Perspectives! I'm your host, David Gouthro, and today we’re diving into the transformative power of laughter with our special guest, Marla Simlett. As a therapist, speaker, and self-proclaimed comedy enthusiast, Marla Simlett shares how humour isn't just a way to lighten the mood—it’s a powerful tool for healing, personal growth, and connection.

From her journey into stand-up comedy to weaving laughter into therapy sessions, Marla Simlett brings a fresh take on why cultivating joy matters now more than ever. We’ll talk about laughter’s surprising benefits, the courage it takes to lead with humour, and practical ways you can bring more giggles—internal and external—into your everyday life.

Get ready for insight, inspiration, and maybe even your own full-bodied laugh as we explore how laughter can help us all learn, grow, and thrive.

A Bit About Marla

Marla Simlett has always loved to laugh and to make others laugh—a passion that began in childhood, when she dreamed of being a comedian. Though she originally doubted comedy could be a solid career, laughter remained an important part of her life.

About five years ago, Marla decided to give stand-up comedy a try, performing on stage and approaching humour more intentionally. As a therapist by profession, she also discovered the power of infusing laughter into her sessions, using humour to help clients open up, lighten the mood, and break down defences.

Today, Marla continues to blend her love for comedy with her commitment to mental health, creating a unique and joyful approach to healing.

Marla's Contact Info and More . . .!

marlasimlett.com

[email protected]

LinkedIn

Instagram

YouTube

Laughter Revolution Podcast

Subscribe to Laughter Revolution Digest

Links to things Marla mentioned:

Humor, Seriously

Laughie Prescription

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You can connect with David Gouthro at:

• Website:https://davidgouthro.com/  (where you can also subscribe to my Blog)
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgouthro/

NOTE: If you wish to join in the podcast fun, please click here to book your own episode with me: https://calendly.com/gouthro/podcast-pals!