I'm honoured to welcome Toronto-based GP, Dr. Steph Godard, MD to the podcast today! I've known Dr. Steph for over 20 years and have been fortunate to witness her hard work and perseverance on the road to realizing her childhood dream of becoming a doctor. We have had many beautiful conversations throughout the years, especially after my diagnosis with MS, that have exemplified the type of doctor she is; open-minded,  understanding and empathetic. Our conversation on today's episode only magnified those observations especially around her approaches to creating a collaborative relationship with her patients. 

One of my biggest goals for 2021 is to expand the guests I invite to be on this podcast beyond those who think exactly as I do. I want to hold space for an open-hearted discussion in which people from different belief systems and backgrounds can find common ground.

And we did just that! 

Me, a 'woo-woo', spiritual, hippie soul who errs on the side of natural healing, and Dr. Steph, a medical professional with a more structured scientific approach to health - found common ground on so many things. I can honestly say I learned so much and Dr. Steph opened my mind to new ways of thinking - and that's what it's all about, baby!

We chatted about:

• How the doctor-patient relationship has evolved over the years
• Ways to be more collaborative - from both the patient & doctor's perspective
• Dr. Google vs. being an informed advocate for our own health
• Practising medicine during a pandemic
• How the privatization of Pharma in Canada weakens trust
• The vaccine - facts and founded fears (and especially  not allowing our opinions it to divide us)
• BMI as an indicator for health (hint: it's not) 

DISCLAIMER: This episode is a candid conversation between myself and Dr. Steph Godard. Nothing shared by Dr. Steph in this interview is intended to act as medical recommendations. Please seek information specific to your individual health situation from your health care professional.