Maverick Makers Podcast

Host Michelle Daides welcomes Clare Kumar, a performance strategist, inclusivity advocate, to the Maverick Makers Podcast. Proudly neuroatypical, Clare has dedicated her career to helping organizations unlock human potential by fostering accessible and inclusive work environments. As the Canadian Regional Director for the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program, Clare is a champion for neurodiversity and non-visible challenges, advocating for environments that empower everyone to contribute their best.

Clare shares her insights on co-creating the future of work with "compassion-infused compromise," a philosophy that blends high performance with inclusivity. In this conversation, Clare delves into the practices that enable inclusive productivity, supporting diverse needs while cultivating an environment where all individuals can thrive.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

-Clare’s journey as a neuroatypical inclusivity advocate and productivity expert

-How accessible and inclusive spaces unlock human potential in organizations

-Practical tips for fostering productivity while respecting neurodiversity

This episode is a must-listen for leaders, teams, and anyone interested in building workspaces that elevate both performance and well-being.

Learn more about Clare and Happy Space!

Get to know Michelle!

Connect with Host Michelle Daides on LinkedIn.

Dive into the world of content with Maverick Makers Content Creation Collective.

Ready for another episode of the Maverick Makers Podcast? Michelle Daides chats with Jolene Brewster, the dynamic entrepreneur behind Jolene’s Tea House in Banff, Alberta. Once crowned Rodeo Queen and Calgary Stampede Queen in 2000, Jolene has seamlessly blended her Wild West roots with her passion for quality tea. Her tea house on historic Bear Street offers over 60 varieties of organic, hand-blended teas, each crafted to capture the essence of the Canadian Rockies.

Jolene shares the story of her journey from Alberta cowgirl to a successful businesswoman. In this inspiring conversation, Jolene talks about the grit, tradition, and community spirit that fuel her work—and how her tea house has become a beloved local treasure.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

Whether you’re a tea enthusiast or a lover of all things Alberta, this episode is filled with stories and inspiration from one of the province’s most vibrant entrepreneurs.

Learn more about Jolene and her Tea House

Get to know Michelle!

Connect with Host Michelle Daides on LinkedIn.

Dive into the world of content with Maverick Makers Content Creation Collective.

In this powerful episode of Maverick Makers, host Michelle Daides is joined by Mary Zamil, a dedicated registered psychotherapist and founder of Mind Multitudes. Mary brings a deeply personal and empathetic approach to mental health, having navigated her own journey with anxiety. Rather than letting it control her life, she embarked on a profound exploration of mind-body practices—embracing mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and breathwork—to cultivate resilience and well-being.

Through her practice, Mind Multitudes, Mary integrates psychotherapy with holistic approaches that nurture not only the mind but also the body and soul. In this episode, Mary shares her story of personal transformation and how it has shaped her ability to guide others through their own mental health challenges with compassion and insight.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

-The transformative power of mindfulness, meditation, yoga, and breathwork

-Insights into the integration of psychotherapy with holistic wellness through Mind Multitudes

-Mary’s philosophy on cultivating presence, resilience, and overall well-being

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking a more integrated approach to mental health, blending professional expertise with personal insight for a truly transformative experience.

Learn more about Mary Zamil and Mind Multitudes

Get to know Michelle!

Connect with Host Michelle Daides on LinkedIn.

Dive into the world of content with Maverick Makers Content Creation Collective.

Bring on the Fire....on this episode, Michelle Daides welcomes culinary maverick Chef Matt Basile, who has spent his career redefining what it means to innovate in the food industry. From founding Toronto’s iconic food truck brand Fidel Gastro’s to launching the hit gastropub Lisa Marie, Matt is no stranger to shaking up the culinary scene. Now, as co-founder of Alchemy Grills, he’s bringing that same disruptive energy to the world of barbecue and live-fire cooking.

Matt shares his journey of transforming Fidel Gastro’s from a simple sandwich pop-up into a globally recognized brand, as well as his experience running Lisa Marie, one of Canada’s top-rated brunch spots. In this episode, he talks about his passion for doing things differently, from his TV show Rebel Without a Kitchen to co-founding Alchemy Grills, the first barbecue that allows users to smoke and grill simultaneously.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

Whether you’re passionate about food or curious about the business of culinary innovation, this episode is packed with delicious inspiration!

Learn more about Alchemy Grills!

Get to know Michelle!

Connect with Host Michelle Daides on LinkedIn.

Dive into the world of content with Maverick Makers Content Creation Collective.

In this episode of Maverick Makers, Michelle Daides welcomes Alanna McGinn, sleep expert and founder of Good Night Sleep Site, to explore the vital role sleep plays in our lives. As the creator of the Messy Middle Sleep Solution, Alanna has made it her mission to help people overcome their sleep struggles, whether they’re individuals, families, or even large corporations.

With her vast expertise, Alanna shares practical advice on how to get quality rest, improve stress management, and wake up feeling refreshed every day. As the host of the This Girl Loves Sleep podcast and a sought-after expert featured in Forbes, Maclean’s, and on Cityline, Alanna reveals key insights into the science of sleep and how her strategies can transform your nights—and your life.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

Don’t miss this deep dive into how mastering your sleep can unlock a healthier, more energized version of yourself!

Want to learn more and work with Alanna McGinn?

Sleep Programs - https://alannamcginn.com/sleep-programs/

Free 5 Day Email Sleep Course - https://goodnightsleepsite.click/optin1723767023125

Get to know Michelle!

Connect with Host Michelle Daides on LinkedIn.

Dive into the world of content with Maverick Makers Content Creation Collective.

In this episode of Maverick Makers, Michelle Daides sits down with renowned entertainment photographer George Pimentel, whose career spans over 30 years. From TIFF and Cannes to the Oscars, Golden Globes, and the Met Gala, George has documented some of the most iconic moments in celebrity culture. His journey began in 1993 when he snapped his first celebrity photo of Robert De Niro at the Toronto Film Festival, using his trusty Hasselblad camera.

With a unique style and passion for capturing stars in their natural element, George has built a reputation for his ability to gain the trust of his subjects without intruding on their personal space. He believes in showcasing celebrities as they truly are, offering an authentic glimpse behind the glamour.

George also was a pivotal character in Michelle Daides’ documentary Behind The Red Carpet (Netflix US and UK), further deepening his insights into life behind the scenes in the entertainment world.

Learn more about George!

Connect with Host Michelle Daides on LinkedIn.

Dive into the world of content with Maverick Makers Content Creation Collective.

In this special milestone episode of Maverick Makers, host Michelle Daides takes a look back at the past 30 episodes to highlight some of the most powerful insights and moments of inspiration from her incredible guests. Throughout the show, Michelle pulls out the gems and wisdom shared by some of the world’s most successful Mavericks, including marketing legend Tony Chapman, media personality and entrepreneur Erica Ehm, investor and mentor Mike Fata, financial commentator Pattie Lovett-Reid, and influencer Casie Stewart.

Whether you’re seeking advice on finding balance, pushing through challenges, or staying true to your dreams without worrying about what others think, this episode is packed with practical and motivating advice. Each of these guests shares their unique take on what it means to navigate life, success, and the pursuit of your passions—even when you’re not at your best.

If you’re ready to take your journey to the next level and want to hear from those who’ve walked the path before you, this episode is for you.

In this compelling episode of Maverick Makers, Michelle Daides welcomes the extraordinary Elvira V. Hopper, a woman who turned her life around in her late 40s to embrace her true calling. Elvira shares her powerful 'Crap Magnet to Miracle Magnet' story, detailing how a blessed mental breakdown led her to leave behind an award-winning six-figure career in Big Pharma—what she calls the 'Golden Handcuffs'—and step into her 'Authentic Act 2.'

Elvira’s journey is nothing short of miraculous. After breaking free from the chains of generational trauma, she reinvented herself as an award-winning professional jazz artist at the age of 51, performing on world-class stages for celebrities, including Oprah Winfrey's partner, Stedman Graham. Elvira’s story is a testament to the belief that it’s never too late to pursue your dreams.

Not only is she a celebrated musician, but Elvira is also a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, life coach, and an internationally sought-after inspirational speaker, represented by one of the oldest global speaker's bureaus. She embodies the mantra, "It's Never Too Late & You Are Never Too Old!"

Join us as Elvira shares the unique WAY that was gifted to her at rock bottom, her insights on overcoming life’s challenges, and how she inspires others to live authentically and fearlessly at any age.

In this episode of Maverick Makers, host Michelle Daides sits down with one of Canada's most legendary artist managers, Jake Gold. With an illustrious career that spans decades, Jake shares insights from his journey in the music industry, from founding The Management Trust in 1981 to playing a pivotal role in shaping iconic Canadian bands like The Tragically Hip and The Pursuit of Happiness.

Known for his keen eye for talent, Jake discusses his time as a judge on the hit national TV show Canadian Idol and how that experience impacted his perspective on artist development. Recently inducted into the Canadian Music Industry Hall of Fame in 2024, Jake takes us behind the scenes of managing not only legendary acts but also up-and-coming artists like Pop R&B sensation Ethan Surman.

Tune in to hear Jake’s reflections on preserving musical legacies and staying relevant in an ever-evolving industry. Whether you're an aspiring artist, a seasoned professional, or just a music lover, this episode offers unparalleled wisdom from a true maverick of the music world.

This episode features a joyful and juicy conversation with Maverick Julie Cole. She is a recovered lawyer, mom of six, and co-founder of Mabel’s Labels Inc. She is an award-winning entrepreneur, best-selling author, and a sought-after speaker and emcee. Julie is no stranger to the media, having appeared on NBC’s The Today Show, HLN’s Raising America, Breakfast Television, The Marilyn Denis Show, and CP24, among many others. Her articles have been featured in The Huffington Post, Today’s Parent, The Globe and Mail, Profit Magazine, Working Mother Magazine, and numerous other publications.

When she’s not juggling her busy family and professional life, Julie is an engaged community member serving on boards and volunteering. She is passionate about women’s issues, mentoring young entrepreneurs, and social justice. Her dedication to these causes underscores her commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

You don't want to miss this episode!