In this episode of DRVN, Ema Peter shares how her early years in communist Bulgaria, surrounded by artists and filmmakers, instilled a relentless drive to create beauty and tell powerful stories, a pursuit that ultimately helped her break free of all limits.

From developing film in their kitchen as a child with her father to photographing some of the most iconic architecture in the world, Ema’s journey is rooted in resilience, courage, and the unwavering pursuit of light —both literal and metaphorical.

Ema reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped her career: from photojournalism in Paris to breaking into the Canadian creative industry as an immigrant woman. She opens up about rejection, risk-taking, and redefining fear as a tool for growth. With humor, depth, and passion, Ema offers powerful lessons on trusting your instincts, honoring your vision, and staying committed to your craft, especially when the odds are against you.

This episode is a masterclass in creative leadership, personal grit, and choosing to be the main character in your own life. Whether you’re a photographer, entrepreneur, or simply someone seeking inspiration, Ema’s story will remind you that doing the work, and doing it your way, will always set you apart.

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WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT:

[00:00] Introduction

[01:45] Ema’s Journey from TV Journalism to Photography

[05:30] Why She Left Bulgaria and Started Over in Canada

[08:20] The Moment She Knew Architectural Photography Was Her Path

[12:10] Chasing the Light: Discipline, Timing, and Vision

[16:45] Navigating Creative Integrity in a Commercial World

[21:00] The Role of Intuition and Energy in Her Work

[24:30] Advice for Women Breaking Into Competitive Industries

[29:00] Defining Success on Her Own Terms

[33:15] What Keeps Her Inspired After 20+ Years in the Field

[36:00] Legacy, Mentorship, and What She Hopes to Leave Behind

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LEARN MORE:

Follow Anne Riesling: Instagram l LinkedIn

Visit DRVN - The Podcast & Agency: Instagram l Website

Follow Ema Peter: Instagram l LinkedIn

Visit Ema Peter Photography: Website

In today’s episode, you’ll discover Dr. Sarah Harbottle’s expert approach to balancing hormones, improving metabolism, and feeling your best during perimenopause and beyond. Dr. Harbottle will walk you through personalized wellness strategies that go beyond just managing symptoms—she’ll show you how to thrive during this transformative time in your life.

Joining Anne today is Dr. Sarah Harbottle, ND, a naturopathic doctor specializing in hormone health and metabolism. With her holistic approach to wellness, Dr. Harbottle combines natural treatments with practical lifestyle changes to help women regain control over their health.

In this episode, you will learn:

• The top strategies for balancing hormones and boosting metabolism during perimenopause.
• How to create a personalized wellness plan that supports your unique health needs.
• The surprising connection between stress, sleep, and hormone regulation.
• The foods and supplements that can support your hormones and energy levels.
• How to manage emotional health alongside physical wellness during life’s transitions.
• Practical tips for improving sleep, digestion, and cognition naturally.
• Why self-compassion is key to achieving long-term health goals and sustaining energy.

Dr. Harbottle’s insights will give you the tools to feel empowered in your wellness journey, ensuring that you not only manage perimenopause but also embrace it with confidence and vitality.

In this episode of DRVN, John Fong takes us through his unconventional path from a 20-year career in finance to launching his own fractional CFO business, F28 Studio. Born in Hong Kong and raised in Vancouver, John reflects on his immigrant roots, the pivotal role of community in his upbringing, and how those early experiences shaped his leadership style.

From the mining industry to tech startups and even the psychedelics space, John shares how he navigated major career transitions, embracing risk and reinvention along the way. He opens up about personal loss, the impact of midlife reflection, and how stepping back from the traditional corporate grind allowed him to align his work with what truly matters: family, purpose, and helping businesses grow with a people-first approach.

In this episode of DRVN, Dr. Lori Brotto and Cally Wesson expose the critical gaps in women’s healthcare and the urgent need for change. Dr. Brotto, a leading researcher in women’s sexual health, and Wesson, a driving force in healthcare advocacy, bring a powerful combination of expertise and passion to this conversation.

They share their groundbreaking work in research and philanthropy, highlighting how they are changing the landscape of women’s health for future generations. They shed light on the overlooked realities of menopause, maternal health, and sexual health, revealing how decades of underfunding have left women without the care and research they deserve. More importantly, they discuss the transformative power of community support and philanthropy in reshaping the future of women’s healthcare.

This episode is a must-listen for women's health advocates, healthcare professionals, or anyone who is interested in learning more about the incredible work at BC Women's Health Foundation.

In this episode of DRVN, Dr. Genieve Burley opens up about the power of manifestation, the importance of boundaries, and how authentic connections can shape a meaningful life. As a chiropractor, wellness advocate, and philanthropist, Dr. Burley shares her journey of integrating personal truth with professional impact. 

Through candid reflections, she highlights the transformative role of community, the balance required to sustain friendships while honoring personal limits, and the profound ways we can create change through intentional action. 

This episode offers powerful insights into the intersection of wellness, authenticity, and the collective strength of community, making it a must-listen for anyone striving to live with purpose and impact.

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FOLLOW FOR MORE

Follow Dr. Genieve Burley on Instagram

Visit Be Chiropractic Wellness

Follow DRVN on Instagram l LinkedIn

Follow Anne Riesling on Instagram l LinkedIn

Visit DRVN.AGENCY to learn more about the agency and podcast.

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WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT

00:00 - Introduction: Anne introduces Dr. Genieve Burley and shares her admiration for her work.

02:30 - Early Life and Influences: How Genieve’s upbringing and personal challenges shaped her path.

05:15 - The Power of Movement: Discussing Genieve’s passion for physical and mental health through movement.

09:45 - Manifestation and Mindset: Genieve explains how she uses manifestation to set and achieve her goals.

13:20 - Speaking Your Truth: Why authenticity and expressing your voice are essential for personal growth.

17:00 - Setting Boundaries: Genieve shares her approach to creating and maintaining healthy boundaries.

21:30 - Philanthropy and Community Impact: Exploring how Genieve channels her energy into giving back and supporting others.

26:15 - Friendship and Support Networks: The importance of fulfilling friendships and building meaningful connections.

30:00 - Advice for Listeners: Genieve’s practical tips for living a balanced and intentional life.

33:45 - Closing Thoughts: Reflections on the episode’s key themes and parting wisdom.

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HOST LOOK

Top: Velvet

Jeans: Citizens of Humanity

Shoes: Ilse Jacobsen

Jewelry: Alexis Bittar

In this episode of DRVN, Sara Nathanson shares how her early years in sports taught her leadership values that now guide her approach to creating a people-first culture at Aritzia. From driven athlete to empowered leader, Sara Nathanson’s journey to Vice President of Talent Acquisition at Aritzia is all about determination, teamwork, and leading with purpose. 

Sara reflects on her career path, sharing stories of both challenges and triumphs that shaped her leadership philosophy. She provides listeners with actionable strategies for creating inclusive workplaces and emphasizes the critical role of relationships in driving success. This episode offers rich insights into leadership, team dynamics, and the art of cultivating a positive organizational culture, making it a must-listen for those looking to inspire and lead effectively.

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Follow Sara Nathanson on LinkedIn

Visit ARITIZIA.COM

Follow DRVN - The Agency & Podcast on Instagram & LinkedIn

Follow Anne Riesling on Instagram & LinkedIn

Visit DRVN.AGENCY

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WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT

00:00 - Introduction: Anne’s admiration for Sarah

03:00 - Building Confidence: Family and sports influences

04:00 - Family Influence: How Sarah’s upbringing instilled resilience

08:15 - Starting Out at Aritzia: Sarah’s career progression

11:20 - Career Milestones at Aritzia: From part-time role to VP

15:30 - A People-First Approach: Why genuine connection matters

18:30 - Empowering Others: Building an inclusive culture at Aritzia

20:45 - Work-Life Balance: Reflections on family and motherhood

25:10 - Personal Life & Balance: Juggling career and motherhood

27:00 - Advice for Career Pivoting: Navigating professional growth

29:45 - Tips for Career Transitions: How to make a pivot confidently

32:15 - Embracing Authenticity: Sarah’s thoughts on self-worth

36:00 - Final Reflection: Finding value in one’s unique path

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MENTIONED

People:

• Brian Hill – Founder of Aritzia, discussed as part of Aritzia’s history and Sarah’s professional journey.
• Jennifer Wong – CEO of Aritzia, mentioned as a significant influence and supporter in Sarah’s career.
• Pippa Morgan – Head of Retail at Aritzia, referenced as a mentor who values team input and collaboration.
• Jeanette Gichan – Sarah’s former colleague at Aritzia who helped her get her first job at the company.
• Sarah’s Family Members – Frequent mentions of Sarah’s husband, son (Freddie), three older brothers, younger sister, and parents, who were all influential in her upbringing and character development.

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HOST LOOK

Top: FRAME

Jeans: Denim Forum (ARITZIA)

Shoes: Ilse Jacobsen

In this episode of DRVN, Joel Hansen shares his incredible journey of building community through authentic storytelling online and empowering young entrepreneurs through his work as Head of Marketing at LOI Venture. Joel opens up about the early years of his career, sharing how embracing vulnerability and discomfort helped him carve out a unique space in the industry as a leader in marketing. What began with cold messages on LinkedIn and Instagram quickly turned into coffee chats, runs, and eventually full-fledged job opportunities. His tenacity in pursuing his dreams and his fearless approach to networking have allowed Joel to connect with some of the most influential leaders in Canada.

Joel dives into the art of storytelling on social media, offering actionable tips for balancing authenticity with digital growth. He shares the power of personal branding and how it creates opportunities to build deep connections with communities, both online and offline. This episode is filled with valuable insights on entrepreneurship, digital storytelling, and community building, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to grow their online presence with purpose and impact.

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FOLLOW Joel Hansen on Instagram, LinkedIn, X

SUBSCRIBE to the Stay Curious Newsletter

VISIT Joel Hansen’s Website

FOLLOW LOI Venture on Instagram, Linkedin

VISIT LOI Venture Website 

PITCH LOI Venture 

SUBSCRIBE to The League Newsletter

FOLLOW LOI Startup Accelerator on Instagram, LinkedIn

Follow DRVN - The Agency & Podcast on Instagram & LinkedIn

Follow Anne Riesling on Instagram & LinkedIn

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WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT

00:00 – Introduction

03:00 – Joel’s Early Career and Digital Marketing Journey

08:30 – The Art of Storytelling in Branding

13:15 – Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in the Digital Space

13:45 – Joel’s Role at LOI Venture and Supporting Young Entrepreneurs

17:00 – How to Build and Scale a Personal Brand

21:45 – The Role of Community in Digital Success

26:30 – Authenticity and Maintaining it While Scaling

31:00 – Content Creation Hacks for Growing an Online Presence

32:15 – Digital Storytelling in the Age of Constant Change

36:00 – Future of Digital Storytelling and Joel’s Next Projects

39:00 – Conclusion and Final Thoughts

MENTIONED 

Books:

Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller: This book was referenced as an influential guide on how to clarify your message and connect with audiences using the power of storytelling.

Start with Why by Simon Sinek: Joel referenced this book, emphasizing the importance of understanding the "why" behind your brand to create a lasting impact and attract an engaged community.

The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari by Robin Sharma: Anne referenced this book as a current read.

People: 

1. Ryan Holmes – Founder of Hootsuite, Cofounder of LOI Venture 
2. Manny Padda – Entrepreneur, investor, and Cofounder of LOI Venture 
3. Brent Bushnell – Entrepreneur and founder of Two Bit Circus
4. Jordan Harbinger – Host of The Jordan Harbinger Show
5. Andrew Chen – General Partner at Andreessen Horowitz and author of The Cold Start Problem
6. Chris Goward – Founder of WiderFunnel 
7. Shaun Neff – Entrepreneur and founder of Neff Headwear
8. Hayden Cashin – Founder of Growth Secrets 
9. Steph Smith - Growth Marketer, Podcast Host

Podcasts:

My First Million Podcast

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

Diary of a CEO Podcast

The Skinny Confidential Podcast

In this episode of DRVN - The Podcast, Kiara LeBlanc, co-founder and CEO of Lifted Movement, takes us through her inspiring journey of redefining fitness for the modern home. After experiencing a life-changing ski accident that led to knee surgery, Kiara reevaluated what wellness truly meant.

Alongside her mother, Kate Ross LeBlanc, she created Lifted Movement—a brand dedicated to merging aesthetically pleasing design with functional fitness equipment. Kiara discusses how their mission is to eliminate movement procrastination by making fitness a seamless part of daily life.

This episode highlights Kiara's insights on entrepreneurship, resilience, and the importance of accessibility in wellness. She also shares her vision for the future of Lifted Movement, including exciting educational initiatives aimed at empowering individuals to embrace movement in their everyday routines.

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Follow Kiara LeBlanc on Instagram & LinkedIn

Visit Lifted Movement Website

Follow Lifted Movement on Instagram

Follow Anne Riesling on Instagram & LinkedIn

Follow DRVN on Instagram & LinkedIn

Visit DRVN Website

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WHAT WE TALKED ABOUT

0:00 – Introduction and Welcome

2:30 – Finding Your Voice in a Family Business

6:00 – Kiara’s Wellness and Movement Journey

13:00 – The Inspiration Behind Lifted Movement

20:00 – The Shift to Functional Fitness

25:00 – Working with Family at Saje

30:00 – Entrepreneurship and Risk Management

36:00 – Product Development for Lifted Movement

45:00 – Vision for the Future of Lifted

50:00 – Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

MENTIONED 

People:

Kate LeBlanc – Kiara’s mother and co-founder of Lifted Movement, also a co-founder of Saje Natural Wellness.

Behnad Honarbakhsh – Global thought leader in rehabilitation, injury prevention, and performance enhancement, collaborating with Lifted Movement for educational content.

Jean-Pierre LeBlanc – Co-founder of Saje Natural Wellness, mentioned in relation to his passion for the brand and his work ethic.

Books:

Zero to One by Peter Thiel – Kiara references this book in the context of entrepreneurship and business strategy, noting its focus on identifying secrets that great businesses possess.

Built to Move by Kelly Starrett and Juliet Starrett – Kiara mentioned this book in the context of movement, discussing the idea of limiting sitting time to less than six hours a day.

CONCEPTS/IDEAS REFERENCED

Top Grading – A system Kiara references during her time working at Saje, used to evaluate employee performance based on culture and proficiency.

Functional Movement – The core concept behind Lifted Movement, focusing on movement that supports real-life activities and physical health.

Peppermint Halo – A popular product from Saje Natural Wellness, which Kiara’s father was particularly passionate about.

Movement Cart – Part of Lifted Movement’s collection, inspired by the design of a bar cart, allowing users to store their fitness equipment in a stylish and accessible way.

In this episode of DRVN, Marie Khouri, a renowned sculptor, shares her incredible journey from Egypt to Canada and how her life's challenges have shaped her as an artist. She discusses her experiences growing up in Lebanon during the war, losing her father, and how immigrating to Canada changed her life. Marie delves into her diverse career path, which includes working as an interpreter and in finance before finding her true passion in sculpture. Through her work, she has expressed her deepest emotions, using art as a form of therapy and self-discovery. The conversation explores how sculpting became an outlet for processing loss, resilience, and the power of vulnerability in creative expression. Marie also highlights the art scene in Vancouver, the importance of public art, and her ongoing projects, including her upcoming exhibition in Egypt at the foot of the pyramids.

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Follow Marie: https://www.instagram.com/marie.khouri/

Marie Khouri Website: https://www.mariekhouri.com

Follow Anne: https://www.instagram.com/itsanneries/

Follow DRVN - The Agency & Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/drvn.agency/

DRVN Website: https://www.drvn.agency

Watch episode on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@drvn.agency?si=deZOoaUWTBJAHHvi

Welcome to DRVN, a podcast of elevating stories to inspire lives. Hosted by Anne Riesling, globally recognized athlete, entrepreneur, and founder of DRVN - The Agency. This is a space dedicated to diving deep into the stories that have shaped us into who we are today. 

In a refreshing, story-telling format, Anne creates an open environment by sharing the relatable moments she deals with as a multifaceted woman, and invites her guests to do the same. Together they try to work through life’s challenges to provide solutions, explanations, and the reassurance that comes with building a community of driven humans.

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Follow Anne Riesling on Instagram and LinkedIn

Visit DRVN.AGENCY and follow DRVN on Instagram