In this eye-opening episode of Forks, we sit down with Hannah Varto, a nurse practitioner and forensic expert dedicated to supporting survivors of violence. From her journey into forensic nursing to launching Canada’s first clinic dedicated to post-violence medical care, Hannah shares her insights on the intersection of healthcare, justice, and advocacy.

We also discuss the state of sexual health education, including the impact of Sue Johanson, the legendary host of Sunday Night Sex Show, on Hannah’s career and passion for open, judgment-free conversations about sexual health. Plus, we dive into the role of forensic nursing in trauma recovery and her groundbreaking research on brain injuries caused by violence. And don’t miss an introduction to Levi, the therapy dog offering comfort to survivors.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

✔️ The importance of trauma-informed healthcare

✔️ The need for better sexual health education in schools

✔️ The legacy of Sue Johanson in promoting open conversations about sex

✔️ Challenges in the legal system for survivors of violence

✔️ How forensic nursing bridges the gap between healthcare and justice

✔️ A revolutionary study on biomarkers for brain injuries in survivors

💡 A must-listen for anyone interested in healthcare, advocacy, or the fight for justice.

Follow Forks

• Website (apply to be on the show!) - forkspod.com/contact
• Instagram - @forkspod
• Facebook - The Forks Podcast
• LinkedIn - linkedin.com/company/forkspod

Copyright

All content, including audio, transcripts, and other materials, is owned by the podcast creators (Alexis Hood and Amie Plourde) and cannot be reproduced or redistributed without permission.

Disclaimer

The Forks podcast, available at forkspod.com, is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts. The content provided is not a substitute for professional advice, and the hosts are not liable for any actions taken based on podcast discussions.

By participating as a guest, individuals consent to the recording and sharing of their stories. Listener privacy is respected in line with our privacy policy, and any data collected will be handled in accordance with applicable laws such as GDPR and CCPA.

For full terms and policies, please visit forkspod.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the key to having a good day—or a bad one—was entirely within your control? In this episode, we welcome back Frank, an addictions counsellor and expert in human behaviour, to explore the power of automatic negative thoughts (ANTs) and how they shape our reality.

🔹 Key Takeaways:

•💭 60,000 Thoughts a Day – Why 95% of them are negative and how to rewire your brain for positivity.

•⚡ The Power of Thought Observation – How simply watching your thoughts can transform your mindset.

•🧠 Neuroplasticity in Action – How changing your thinking creates new brain chemistry.

•🙌 The Role of Gratitude & Faith – Why small daily habits, like appreciating a hot shower, can shift your outlook.

•⏳ Mindfulness & Living in the Present – The secret to reducing stress and improving emotional resilience.

🎧 Must-Listen Clip:

“If you want to have a good day, you will. If you want to have a bad day, you will. It’s all about what you feed your mind—your thoughts create your reality.”

Hit play and take control of your day! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a 5-star review!

📌 Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for more insights and updates.

📌 Follow Forks

• Website (apply to be on the show!) - forkspod.com/contact
• Instagram - @forkspod
• Facebook - The Forks Podcast
• LinkedIn - linkedin.com/company/forkspod

Copyright

All content, including audio, transcripts, and other materials, is owned by the podcast creators (Alexis Hood and Amie Plourde) and cannot be reproduced or redistributed without permission.

Disclaimer

The Forks podcast, available at forkspod.com, is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts. The content provided is not a substitute for professional advice, and the hosts are not liable for any actions taken based on podcast discussions.

By participating as a guest, individuals consent to the recording and sharing of their stories. Listener privacy is respected in line with our privacy policy, and any data collected will be handled in accordance with applicable laws such as GDPR and CCPA.

For full terms and policies, please visit forkspod.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎧 In this episode of Forks, Alexis and Amie dive into what they see as hot and not in their world. From celebrity comebacks and self-care trends to bizarre corporate habits and low-stakes cults (yes, really), this conversation is packed with humour, opinions, and a touch of chaos.

🔥 What’s Hot?

•Jeremiah Brent on Queer Eye – Why Alexis is obsessed.

•Paris Hilton & Nicole Richie’s return – Nostalgia overload!

•LED face masks – Skincare revolution or social media scam?

•Spinning & ice baths – Cult vibes, but make it wellness.

•Volunteering with kids – Teaching gratitude in a world of excess.

🚫 What’s Not?

•“Speed humps” vs. “speed bumps” – major ick.

•Corporate men & their inspirational entrance music.

•Acoustic guitars at parties – Barbie called it first.

•Ticketmaster’s monopoly – The concert ticket struggle is real.

•Porch pirates – The worst kind of thieves.

Expect unfiltered thoughts, unexpected tangents, and a few questionable revenge fantasies.

💬 What are your hots & nots? Join the conversation on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn! Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a 5-star review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ to help spread the Forks energy.

#Podcast #ForksPodcast #PopCulture #Trends2024 #SelfCare #Skincare #Spinning #ColdPlunge #Volunteering #Nostalgia #QueerEye #WellnessTrends

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Forks, we explore Alexis’ journey from job loss to career clarity and why losing your job might actually be the best thing to happen. Discover why job loss can be a blessing in disguise and learn practical tips for navigating unemployment—like mastering networking without feeling awkward and nailing interviews by staying true to yourself. Plus, we share valuable advice for employers on creating more respectful and thoughtful offboarding experiences. Whether you’re job hunting, hiring, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode offers actionable insights and a fresh perspective to guide your next steps.

Follow Forks

• Website (apply to be on the show!) - forkspod.com/contact
• Instagram - @forkspod
• Facebook - The Forks Podcast
• LinkedIn - linkedin.com/company/forkspod

Copyright

All content, including audio, transcripts, and other materials, is owned by the podcast creators (Alexis Hood and Amie Plourde) and cannot be reproduced or redistributed without permission.

Disclaimer

The Forks podcast, available at forkspod.com, is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts. The content provided is not a substitute for professional advice, and the hosts are not liable for any actions taken based on podcast discussions.

By participating as a guest, individuals consent to the recording and sharing of their stories. Listener privacy is respected in line with our privacy policy, and any data collected will be handled in accordance with applicable laws such as GDPR and CCPA.

For full terms and policies, please visit forkspod.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Alexis and Amie are joined by Adenike Charles, founder of Just2Sweat, a fitness and wellness brand that combines exercise, mindset, and faith to inspire transformative change. With her expertise in kinesiology, personal training, and life coaching, Nike shares her inspiring journey from corporate leadership to becoming a full-time entrepreneur.

Discover Nike’s insights on building healthy habits, overcoming obstacles, and achieving balance through a holistic approach to fitness and faith. Whether you’re seeking practical fitness tips, mindset strategies, or a boost of motivation, this conversation will leave you empowered and ready to take the next step toward your goals.

#FitnessAndFaith #MindsetMatters #HolisticWellness

Follow Forks

• Website (apply to be on the show!) - forkspod.com/contact
• Instagram - @forkspod
• Facebook - The Forks Podcast
• LinkedIn - linkedin.com/company/forkspod

Copyright

All content, including audio, transcripts, and other materials, is owned by the podcast creators (Alexis Hood and Amie Plourde) and cannot be reproduced or redistributed without permission.

Disclaimer

The Forks podcast, available at forkspod.com, is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts. The content provided is not a substitute for professional advice, and the hosts are not liable for any actions taken based on podcast discussions.

By participating as a guest, individuals consent to the recording and sharing of their stories. Listener privacy is respected in line with our privacy policy, and any data collected will be handled in accordance with applicable laws such as GDPR and CCPA.

For full terms and policies, please visit forkspod.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we take a moment to reflect on the incredible wisdom and insights shared by our guests since we launched the podcast in October 2024. From navigating life’s transitions to redefining resilience, embracing gratitude, and challenging societal norms, we’ve learned so much from these conversations. We talk about the lessons that have stuck with us—like forgiving ourselves to heal, living below our means for financial freedom, and understanding the power of community in building resilience. This is our chance to celebrate the journeys of our amazing guests and share how their stories have impacted us personally. Join us as we look back on the moments that have shaped us and inspired this podcast.

Follow Forks

• Website (apply to be on the show!) - forkspod.com/contact
• Instagram - @forkspod
• Facebook - The Forks Podcast
• LinkedIn - linkedin.com/company/forkspod

Copyright

All content, including audio, transcripts, and other materials, is owned by the podcast creators (Alexis Hood and Amie Plourde) and cannot be reproduced or redistributed without permission.

Disclaimer

The Forks podcast, available at forkspod.com, is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts. The content provided is not a substitute for professional advice, and the hosts are not liable for any actions taken based on podcast discussions.

By participating as a guest, individuals consent to the recording and sharing of their stories. Listener privacy is respected in line with our privacy policy, and any data collected will be handled in accordance with applicable laws such as GDPR and CCPA.

For full terms and policies, please visit forkspod.com.

#ForksPodcast #PodcastReflection #LifeLessons #Resilience #Gratitude #PersonalGrowth

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when a seasoned child and family expert finds herself unable to help her own child in crisis? That’s the reality Jessica Diamond, mother of three and founder of The Help Hub, faced when her family was met with a fragmented and under-resourced mental health system. Despite her decades of experience as a social worker and advocate for children, Jessica discovered just how isolating and overwhelming it can be to navigate a system that doesn’t meet families’ needs.

In this episode, Jessica shares her deeply personal journey from professional to parent in crisis, the fork in the road that inspired her to create The Help Hub, and her mission to provide compassionate, coordinated care for families. Whether you’re a parent, an advocate, or simply someone who wants to understand the challenges facing children’s mental health today, this episode is a must-listen.

Learn more about The Help Hub at thehelphub.ca

Follow Forks

• Website (apply to be on the show!) - forkspod.com/contact
• Instagram - @forkspod
• Facebook - The Forks Podcast
• LinkedIn - linkedin.com/company/forkspod

Copyright

All content, including audio, transcripts, and other materials, is owned by the podcast creators (Alexis Hood and Amie Plourde) and cannot be reproduced or redistributed without permission.

Disclaimer

The Forks podcast, available at forkspod.com, is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts. The content provided is not a substitute for professional advice, and the hosts are not liable for any actions taken based on podcast discussions.

By participating as a guest, individuals consent to the recording and sharing of their stories. Listener privacy is respected in line with our privacy policy, and any data collected will be handled in accordance with applicable laws such as GDPR and CCPA.

For full terms and policies, please visit forkspod.com.

#Podcast #Parenting #MentalHealth #CareerChange #Inspiration #OntarioMentalHealth #ParentingTips #ParentingSupport #ChildWelfare #SocialWork #Neurodiverse #ParentalBurnout #Resilience #SelfCare #Compassion #ParentingJourney #MentalHealthAwareness #PositiveParenting #ConsciousParenting #FamilySupport

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to lead with humility, foster equity, and inspire transformative change? Nadine Sookermany, CEO of the Ontario HIV Treatment Network, joins us to share her extraordinary journey of advocacy, leadership, and perseverance. From her early work championing women’s health to addressing systemic inequities in housing, HIV care, and harm reduction, Nadine’s path has been anything but linear.

In this episode, Nadine reflects on the lessons learned at critical crossroads in her career, the values that guide her leadership, and the importance of listening and collaboration in creating meaningful impact. Through candid stories of challenges and triumphs, she reveals the power of empathy and resilience in tackling complex social issues while building an executive career rooted in purpose.

For more information on the Ontario HIV Treatment Network visit: https://www.ohtn.on.ca/.

Follow Forks

• Website (apply to be on the show!) - forkspod.com/contact
• Instagram - @forkspod
• Facebook - The Forks Podcast
• LinkedIn - linkedin.com/company/forkspod

Copyright

All content, including audio, transcripts, and other materials, is owned by the podcast creators (Alexis Hood and Amie Plourde) and cannot be reproduced or redistributed without permission.

Disclaimer

The Forks podcast, available at forkspod.com, is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts. The content provided is not a substitute for professional advice, and the hosts are not liable for any actions taken based on podcast discussions.

By participating as a guest, individuals consent to the recording and sharing of their stories. Listener privacy is respected in line with our privacy policy, and any data collected will be handled in accordance with applicable laws such as GDPR and CCPA.

For full terms and policies, please visit forkspod.com.

#Leadership #HIVAwareness #SocialJustice #HealthEquity #WomenInLeadership #ForksPodcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Co-parenting expert and author Charlotte Schwartz, whose book Your Place or Mine? offers an empowering guide for navigating co-parenting after separation, opens up about her transformative journey in this episode of Forks.

Charlotte shares how she lost her long-standing role as a senior legal clerk at a prestigious downtown law firm—a job she loved—while raising a child with disabilities and navigating co-parenting after divorce.

Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about redefining success, overcoming challenges, and finding strength at one of her life’s most pivotal forks in the road.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Identity and Career: The emotional aftermath of job loss and redefining self-worth beyond professional roles.
• Parenting and Co-Parenting: Insights into navigating co-parenting with flexibility, respect, and prioritizing children’s emotional well-being.
• Advocacy and Change: How Charlotte uses her personal and professional experiences to create systemic awareness and guide others through complex family dynamics.

🎧 Listen now to hear Charlotte’s inspiring story and hopefully get some insight into navigating your own forks in the road.

“Resilience isn’t a personality trait—it’s the byproduct of being carried through a stressful or traumatic time and feeling safe during it.” - Charlotte Schwartz

Charlotte’s book, Your Place or Mine?, published by Dundurn Press, is available on Amazon and at local bookstores.

#ParentingWithPurpose #CoParenting #DisabilityAdvocacy #RedefiningSuccess #PodcastEpisode #ForksPodcast

Follow Forks

• Website (apply to be on the show!) - forkspod.com/contact
• Instagram - @forkspod
• Facebook - The Forks Podcast
• LinkedIn - linkedin.com/company/forkspod

Copyright

All content, including audio, transcripts, and other materials, is owned by the podcast creators (Alexis Hood and Amie Plourde) and cannot be reproduced or redistributed without permission.

Disclaimer

The Forks podcast, available at forkspod.com, is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions guests express are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts. The content provided is not a substitute for professional advice, and the hosts are not liable for any actions taken based on podcast discussions.

By participating as a guest, individuals consent to the recording and sharing of their stories. Listener privacy is respected in line with our privacy policy, and any data collected will be handled in accordance with applicable laws such as GDPR and CCPA.

For full terms and policies, please visit forkspod.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Forks, we talk with Nelson Soh—a renowned financial literacy expert, bestselling author, and TEDx speaker—who shares his journey from a CPA focused on career success to championing financial literacy, economic empowerment and living a life true to one's values. With years of experience working for companies like KPMG, Cathay Pacific, and CPA Canada, Nelson seemed to have deep financial expertise. However, in a vulnerable TEDx talk, he admitted that he also struggled with personal money management and realized that he lacked the necessary mindset to live a fulfilling life.

This “fork in the road” led him to reimagine his approach to money and inspire others to “win the game of money.” In this episode, we dive into:

•Uncovering Financial Blind Spots: How Nelson’s realization that expertise doesn’t guarantee financial security sparked his mission to help others.

•Mindset for Financial Freedom: The power of aligning finances with personal values to achieve a life of purpose.

•Balancing Saving and Living: Strategies for achieving financial goals today without sacrificing tomorrow.

•Navigating Social Media’s Spending Influence: How to make authentic financial choices in a world driven by social media.

•Empowering Future Generations: Nelson’s vision for teaching financial literacy in schools to help young people take charge of their financial futures.

🎧 Tune in for inspiring insights on building financial confidence, living authentically, and mastering your finances!

#FinancialLiteracyExpert #MasteringTheGameOfMoney #MoneyMindset #FinancialFreedom #PersonalFinance #LiveYourValues #MoneyManagement #ForksPodcast #NelsonSoh #Inspiration

Follow Forks

• Website (apply to be on the show!) - forkspod.com/contact
• Instagram - @forkspod
• Facebook - The Forks Podcast
• LinkedIn - linkedin.com/company/forkspod

Copyright

All content, including audio, transcripts, and other materials, is owned by the podcast creators (Alexis Hood and Amie Plourde) and cannot be reproduced or redistributed without permission.

Disclaimer

The Forks podcast, available at forkspod.com, is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the hosts. The content provided is not a substitute for professional advice, and the hosts are not liable for any actions taken based on podcast discussions.

By participating as a guest, individuals consent to the recording and sharing of their stories. Listener privacy is respected in line with our privacy policy, and any data collected will be handled in accordance with applicable laws such as GDPR and CCPA.

For full terms and policies, please visit forkspod.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.