Discover Fresh Perspectives

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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!

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Welcome back to Discover Fresh Perspectives, where host David Gouthro reconnects with special returning guest, Alison Abbott. Nearly two years after her first appearance—and 117 episodes later—Alison joins us to share what’s transpired since navigating a challenging job market, the ongoing evolution of AI in the marketing world, and the undeniable power of relationships and networking. 

Together, they discuss lessons learned from career transitions, the role of human connection in an increasingly digital workplace, and Alison’s insights on sustaining momentum through both setbacks and new opportunities. 

Whether you’re seeking inspiration for your own career journey or eager to hear fresh thoughts on the future of work, this episode promises candid reflections and practical advice from both host and guest.

Alison Abbott

Alison Abbott’s journey took a turn after eight months of unemployment. Around month nine, a casual coffee chat with a networking connection led her to a role at a small marketing agency. There, Alison spent nearly a year and eight months, immersing herself in the dynamic world of marketing. 

Her time at the agency challenged her to expand her skills and think creatively, marking a period of significant growth both professionally and personally.

Alison'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!

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Welcome to another episode of Discover Fresh Perspectives! Today, host David Gouthro sits down with guest Merike Kolga for a unique and insightful conversation. In this episode, Merike introduces the metaphor of a farmer’s market to illustrate the journey of professional development. She shares how the abundance of choices—whether in self-improvement, career growth, or simply picking out resources—can feel both exciting and overwhelming.

Together, David Gouthro and Merike Kolga explore practical ways to navigate those choices, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection, setting clear intentions, and even seeking input from mentors or accountability partners. From overcoming inertia and “hamster wheels” to finding joy in experimentation, this episode is packed with relatable stories and actionable advice. Whether you’re feeling stuck or just browsing for your next new idea, tune in for fresh perspectives on how to get started, make meaningful choices, and embrace discovery in your own professional journey.

A Bit About Merike

Merike Kolga is a passionate supporter of farmers markets, seeing them as vibrant places of discovery and social connection. For Merike, each visit is an opportunity to explore unique, carefully crafted products ranging from fresh produce to skincare goods and candles. 

She enjoys not just browsing the offerings, but also engaging with the vendors, taking the time to learn about their stories and creations. For Merike, markets aren't just about shopping—they're a lively, social experience where community and creativity come together.

For More Info

Merike's LinkedIn Profile

Merike'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 to this week's episode of Discover Fresh Perspectives! Today, host David Gouthro sits down with accomplished storyteller and executive coach Susan Luke Evans. In this conversation, Susan shares her journey into the world of storytelling, revealing how a client’s insightful observation led her to recognize the transformative power of sharing personal experiences. From family roots steeped in story—from her mother’s radio days to her father’s sermons—to her own adventures teaching in remote Alaskan villages, Susan explains why stories resonate with people and how they foster connection and engagement.

Tune in as David Gouthro and Susan Luke Evans explore the impact of storytelling in professional settings, its universal appeal across cultures and generations, and practical tips for anyone looking to become a more effective communicator. Whether you’re a leader, educator, or simply someone looking to share authentically, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable advice to help you harness the power of stories for greater influence and connection.

A Bit About Susan

Susan Luke Evans discovered her talent for storytelling unexpectedly while working in management training. Her journey into professional storytelling began when a client asked her to help an executive team bridge communication gaps caused by cultural differences between their new CEO from Western Australia—who spoke quickly and used unfamiliar colloquialisms—and their Southern U.S. staff, who preferred a slower pace.

Though Susan had never formally taught storytelling, her client pointed out that she always used stories in her teaching, engaging everyone who listened. Inspired by their confidence, Susan began teaching executives how to craft and share stories to engage and connect with their teams, launching a new chapter in her career as a storytelling expert.

More About Susan

Susan'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!

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Welcome back to another episode of Discover Fresh Perspectives! This week, host David Gouthro sits down with leadership and people strategy expert Rachel Platt for an honest conversation about a challenge we can all relate to: how to make work "not suck"! Drawing on her experience working with organizations and leadership teams, Rachel delves into the signs of a workplace culture that’s faltering—think high turnover, disengaged employees, and unclear expectations—and explores practical, budget-friendly ways to create meaningful change.

From empowering managers and ditching the “ping pong table culture” myth, to fostering genuine curiosity and learning from mistakes (without blame), this episode is packed with real-life examples, actionable insights, and a dose of humour. Whether you’re a leader searching for ways to engage your team, or you simply want your workplace to feel more energizing and less draining, David Gouthro and Rachel Platt offer candor, clarity, and a few fresh perspectives that might just change the way you think about work.

A Bit About Rachel

Rachel Platt is a dedicated consultant specializing in leadership and team dynamics. Throughout her career, Rachel has worked closely with leadership teams who often feel challenged by lack of engagement and initiative among employees—likening the experience to “pulling teeth” and reading minds.

She’s also deeply empathetic to the employee perspective, observing how rising expectations and stagnating compensation can leave individuals drained and unfulfilled at work. Her insightful approach bridges the gap between organizational leaders and their teams, helping workplaces become more connected, effective, and motivating environments for everyone.

For More Info

Rachel's Website: PLATTinum Consulting

Rachel'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!

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Welcome to Discover Fresh Perspectives! In today’s episode, host David Gouthro sits down with renowned technology expert and speaker, Terry Brock, to explore the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence. From demystifying what AI truly is and discussing its transformative potential, to tackling common myths and concerns, this conversation dives deep into how AI is changing every aspect of our lives and work.

You'll hear real-world examples—from saving lives in medicine to revolutionizing research—and learn why embracing change and continuous learning is crucial in this AI-driven era. Whether you’re a skeptic, enthusiast, or just curious about where technology is heading, Terry brings clarity, humour, and actionable advice for engaging with AI in practical, responsible ways. Don't miss out on this wide-ranging exploration about the opportunities and challenges of our tech-powered future!

A Bit About Terry!

Terry Brock has always been fascinated by technology and its power to transform lives. Throughout his career, he has explored how innovations, like artificial intelligence, can help us accomplish tasks faster and more efficiently than ever before.

Terry recognizes that AI brings tremendous benefits—from automating activities to unlocking new possibilities—and believes it can change our world for the better if we approach it thoughtfully.

Yet, he also acknowledges the need to address potential challenges that come with any new technology. By championing responsible and positive use, Terry aims to guide others toward making the most of AI’s promise in an ever-changing world.

Please check out Terry's Website or his LinkedIn to learn more!

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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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This week on Discover Fresh Perspectives, host David Gouthro welcomes guest Suzanne Simpson, an educator with deep experience supporting kids in crisis. Drawing from her many years as a French immersion teacher and her time teaching on a psychiatric unit, Suzanne shares her passion for helping youth who struggle with issues like anxiety, depression, and trauma. She offers powerful stories and research-backed insights into what kids truly need most from adults—highlighting the transformative impact of support, understanding, care, and authentic connection.

Whether working with students facing debilitating mental health challenges or those simply struggling with self-worth, Suzanne explains how building a sense of belonging and success can change a young person’s life trajectory. She also tackles the tough realities of parenting, the importance of taking responsibility without shame, and why real healing for kids in crisis often begins long before clinical intervention. If you care about youth mental health, this episode delivers practical wisdom, heartfelt encouragement, and a fresh perspective on what it really means to see and support young people through their hardest times.

A Bit About Suzanne

Suzanne Simpson has always been passionate about supporting children in crisis. After spending 20 years teaching French immersion—a highly regarded and competitive program in Canada—Suzanne discovered her true calling by reaching out to students who struggled with learning disorders, low self-worth, and mental health challenges, even within this elite environment.

Her work began by recognizing and advocating for those kids who needed extra support, sparking a lifelong commitment to helping children overcome adversity and thrive.

For More Info

Suzanne's Website

Suzanne'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!

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On this episode of Discover Fresh Perspectives, host David Gouthro sits down with consultant Dan Olivieri for a candid conversation about tackling complex community issues—like housing affordability, homelessness, and social service inequity—in bold and collaborative ways. Drawing on nearly two decades of experience in human performance, organizational effectiveness, and local government, Dan shares his approach to bringing the right people to the table and creating environments where true dialogue, trust, and change can happen.

In this episode, you’ll hear practical insights about moving beyond ego to address the real needs of communities, the critical role of relationship-building among diverse stakeholders, and why telling the human stories behind nonprofit work can transform both community impact and funding. Whether you’re looking to spark meaningful collaboration or just want to think differently about the problems facing modern cities, this conversation is packed with strategies, anecdotes, and inspiration for making a difference—together.

A Bit About Dan

Dan Olivieri is dedicated to tackling the complex social challenges that affect communities on a large scale. Recognizing that these issues require innovative thinking and collaboration, Dan’s work centres on bringing diverse voices together and setting egos aside to focus on the heart of the problem. 

Through fostering open dialogue and creative approaches, Dan strives to honour the complexity of these challenges while ultimately driving towards clear, effective solutions.

For More Info

Dan's Website

Dan'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!

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Welcome to another episode of Discover Fresh Perspectives! This week, David Gouthro sits down with Lana Starchuck, a seasoned skydiver who brings more than just adrenaline to the conversation. With nearly 1,100 jumps under her belt and a unique approach to team formation skydiving, Lana shares insight-packed analogies between life on the ground and life in the sky. Together, they explore how principles like trust, awareness, confidence, and embracing failure are essential not just for successful skydives, but for navigating organizational change, personal growth, and everyday challenges.

In this episode, you’ll hear what it takes to coordinate hundreds of skydivers, why fear can be a springboard for opportunity, and how “Plan B” in skydiving relates to risk management in life and work. Lana also previews her upcoming book and leaves you with practical questions to turn avoidance into action. If you’ve ever wondered what parachute mishaps can teach you about leadership, resilience, or making bold moves, this conversation is sure to lift you up with fresh perspectives and actionable advice. Tune in to get inspired by sky-high wisdom—no jumpsuit required!

A Bit About Lana

Lana Starchuck began her journey in competitive skydiving in 2007, quickly immersing herself in the sport’s vibrant community. Starting out at lower levels, she eventually became part of two, four-person teams and has competed nationally at both indoor and outdoor skydiving events. She also participated in a 250-person skydive attempt at Skydive Chicago in 2025. 

In these disciplines, adult athletes—many with families and careers—form intricate shapes in the sky, gripping each other’s arms and legs to create set patterns that correspond to letters and numbers. 

Lana’s passion for teamwork and her commitment to the sport have seen her soar to great heights, literally and figuratively, as she continues to embrace the challenge and camaraderie of competitive skydiving.

For More Info

Lana's Website

Signature Keynote

Lana'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!

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Welcome back to Discover Fresh Perspectives, where we dive deep into ideas that challenge the status quo and spark new ways of thinking. In this episode, host David Gouthro welcomes brand strategist Nader Safinya for a thought-provoking conversation about the real meaning of "walking the talk" in organizations.

Together, they explore the concept of "culture branding"—a unique approach pioneered by Nader that aligns a company's lived behaviours with its public image. Drawing from his own career journey, including struggles searching for meaningful work during the pandemic, Nader shares personal stories that highlight where and why disconnects happen between what companies promise and what they deliver, both for customers and employees.

Listeners will hear fresh insights on why values often fall short when they’re just words on a wall, how truly integrated branding goes far beyond logos and colour schemes, and practical strategies for instilling integrity and human-centred values into the DNA of any organization. Whether you’re part of a small business or a Fortune 500 company, get ready to rethink the power of brand as an “emotional contract” that shapes experiences inside and out.

Stay tuned to discover why self-reflection—and asking, “Would I work for myself?”—could be the most vital leadership question you ever consider.

A Bit About Nader

After finding himself unable to secure work in 2018, Nader Safinya took matters into his own hands and launched his own business in New York. Drawing inspiration from his experiences, especially during the challenges of COVID-19, Nader developed a unique program called "Culture Branding."

His approach focuses on aligning a company's public image with its internal reality, ensuring that its communications truly reflect its operations. Through Culture Branding, Nader helps organizations walk the talk, so that what their market expects is genuinely what they deliver.

For More Information

Nader's Website: Blackribbit

Nader'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!