Motivation Local

In this deep and insightful conversation, Sharon Allan reflects on her decades-long journey in Medicine Hat as a teacher, instructor, and researcher. Sharon and Corey explore how place shapes professional and personal identity, focusing on transitional or "borderland" spaces in life — from students becoming teachers to newcomers adapting to communities. Sharon draws from her research on the construction of professional identity, particularly in new teachers, and expands the metaphor to community life in Medicine Hat.

Together, they reflect on the importance of reflection, connection, and generosity as key elements of identity formation, whether in professional roles or civic life. They also touch on evolving cultural dynamics, the role of values in shaping identity, and the need to create inclusive "tents" big enough to welcome all community members. Sharon leaves listeners with thoughtful perspectives on how rootedness, reciprocity, and ongoing dialogue are essential for thriving both individually and collectively.

Timestamps

00:00:00 — Introduction00:02:00 — Sharon’s background as a long-time Medicine Hat resident, teacher, and PhD researcher into professional identity.

00:03:30 — Sharon discusses moving from K-12 teaching to post-secondary and beginning her research on identity.

00:06:00 — Observing students navigating professionalism and questioning how identity forms in teaching.

00:08:30 — Sharon introduces the metaphor of "borderlands" inspired by geography to describe transitional spaces in teacher identity formation.

00:13:30 — Reflecting on how students navigate these in-between spaces in internships and teacher education.

00:19:00 — Sharon shares the challenges faced by student teachers and the importance of reflection and guidance during transitions.

00:22:00 — Applying the borderlands concept to parenting, retirement, and other personal life transitions.

00:25:20 — The role of involvement and contribution in professional and community settings to solidify identity.

00:27:00 — Mentoring programs and welcoming environments as critical supports for new teachers and residents.

00:29:00 — Exploring how communities, especially newcomers, navigate cultural integration and identity formation.

00:31:00 — Sharon shares thoughts on culture not as a static box but as dynamic and reciprocal.

00:33:00 — Reflecting on the relationship between community values and how identity is formed and expressed.

00:35:00 — Recalling past collaborative initiatives in education and the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping shared values.

00:38:00 — Sharon identifies the ongoing challenge of creating spaces for meaningful, cross-cultural conversations.

00:41:00 — Sharon reflects on research by Coopersmith and Brokenleg, discussing the role of giving and virtue in self-esteem and identity.

00:43:00 — Corey introduces Adler’s philosophy about relationships and virtue as foundational for esteem and community.

00:46:00 — Sharon brings in Vygotsky’s idea of social learning through peers and applies it to community identity.

00:48:00 — Sharon encourages seeing Medicine Hat through an appreciative lens rather than focusing on what’s missing.

00:51:00 — Sharon and Corey reflect on Medicine Hat’s unique size, diversity, and summertime beauty.

00:54:00 — How individuals and communities can work together to plant roots and make new members feel welcome.

00:56:00 — Sharon shares her plans for travel, staying engaged in work, and continuing to contribute.

00:57:00 — Corey credits Sharon’s influence on his own learning journey and podcasting approach, tying back to early teaching experiences.

00:59:00 — Sharon offers a closing reflection on how identity is forged through community, generosity, and shared experience.

In this episode of Motivation Local, host Corey sits down with Dianne Wilkins, a born-and-raised Hatter whose journey has taken her from Medicine Hat to Mobile, Stockholm, Manhattan, Palm Springs, Calgary, and beyond. A former CEO of global digital agency Critical Mass and a Harvard Advanced Leadership Fellow, Di shares her reflections on place, leadership, identity, and resilience. From her early ambitions to "get out" of Medicine Hat, to her eventual pride in her roots while thriving on global stages, she offers a rich and thoughtful conversation. She also explores how community confidence, grit, and personal connection — formed at places like Connaught Golf Club and Swirls — fuelled her leadership path. Throughout, she speaks candidly about transition, the challenges of post-career life, and the power of mentorship, particularly for women in leadership.Timestamps:00:00 – 01:26 Corey introduces the season's theme01:26 – 02:09 Land acknowledgment and context-setting 02:09 – 02:54 Introduction of guest Dianne Wilkins: global CEO, Harvard Fellow, and Medicine Hat native.02:54 – 04:14 Starting with Dianne’s recent transitions: stepping down as CEO, moving into consulting, investing, and chair work.04:14 – 05:06 Explaining the Nama Fund: investing in female-led companies and proving the value of female leadership.05:06 – 06:13 Harvard Advanced Leadership Fellowship experience — a life-changing return to education.06:13 – 07:01 Staying connected to Harvard through board work and ongoing leadership contributions.07:01 – 08:10 Dianne’s thoughts on redefining retirement as “post-achievement” — choosing passion over proving value.08:10 – 09:13 The shift from a team environment to solo projects and the impact on motivation.09:13 – 10:37 Reflections on identity: moving from constant collaboration to self-driven work and solitude.10:37 – 12:00 Exploring how living in diverse places like Alabama, Stockholm, Manhattan, and Palm Springs shaped Dianne’s identity.12:00 – 13:25 Medicine Hat’s impact: ambition, drive, and a desire for more, forged from small-town roots.13:25 – 16:14 Contrast between Medicine Hat upbringing and thriving in New York City's corporate world.16:14 – 17:53 Dianne’s knack for building lifelong friend groups at every stage — from high school to Harvard.17:53 – 19:00 Early examples of leadership tendencies — from neighbourhood lemonade stands to professional leadership.19:00 – 22:10 The importance of decision-making as a core leadership skill, developed over time through career experiences.22:10 – 24:01 First memories of Medicine Hat — the Stampede Parade and cowboy culture.24:01 – 25:25 Nostalgia for local landmarks: Riverside Waterslide, Swirls, and golf culture at Connaught.25:25 – 27:02 Recreating the joy of teenage summers — evening golf games and community connections.27:02 – 28:06 Exchange trip memories — a pivotal experience spending time in Quebec during high school.28:06 – 30:00 Confidence built through a tight-knit community and early leadership experiences in Medicine Hat.30:00 – 31:03 How hometown experiences shaped Dianne’s leadership and commitment to mentoring women.31:03 – 33:08 The importance of building networks, mentorship, and supporting female leadership through Norma Fund and other initiatives.33:08 – 36:20 Personal board of directors concept — the power of having diverse, trusted voices in life and leadership.36:20 – 39:04 Female leaders Dianne admires — spotlight on Lisa Su, CEO of AMD, and her remarkable leadership story.39:04 – 41:13 Stories about Dianne’s childhood home — including a freezing bedroom that might have forged resilience!41:13 – 44:07 Advice for communities like Medicine Hat: building identity through core values and clear vision, not structures.44:07 – 47:02 Potential future guests for the podcast: Trevor Linden and Jim Horsman.47:02 – 48:01 Closing remarks, gratitude, and a reflection on new things learned during the conversation.

In Episode 4 of Motivation Local, host Corey Sadlemyer sits down with Darrell Willier, First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Coordinator for Medicine Hat Public School Division. Originally from Sucker Creek First Nation near High Prairie, Alberta, Darrell shares his journey to Medicine Hat, driven by a desire to be closer to his children and grandchildren.Darrell reflects on the profound impact of place on identity and community-building. He talks candidly about his role supporting Indigenous students, the evolution of cultural pride, and how access to supports, visibility, and education have empowered students and families to embrace their heritage.From teepees at community events to turkey vultures at Police Point Park, Darrell’s experiences are a reminder that community is both built and felt—through shared stories, inclusive education, and a deep appreciation of place.⏱️ Detailed Timestamps00:00–01:13 – Intro to Motivation Local & the season’s focus on Medicine Hat 01:13–02:12 – Meet the guest: Darrell Willier, his role and background 02:12–03:39 – Darrell’s origin story: from Sucker Creek First Nation to Medicine Hat 03:40–05:05 – Why he and his wife chose Medicine Hat: to be near family 05:06–06:19 – Cost of living and climate differences from northern Alberta 06:20–08:15 – Local work-life balance perks: sports tournaments, less travel 08:16–09:50 – Transitioning to a new city and community; positive reception 09:51–11:08 – School division differences: no reserves nearby, all students in city 11:09–12:08 – Why Indigenous student declarations increased significantly 12:09–13:39 – Hosting guest speakers & inspiring pride through storytelling 13:40–14:33 – Focus on helping students plan post-secondary pathways 14:34–15:04 – Observations on where Indigenous families in Medicine Hat are from 15:05–15:45 – Meeting a student from Labrador: the rarity of Inuit students 15:46–17:21 – The effect of place on identity and how newcomers shape communities 17:22–18:26 – The importance of connection and belonging in schools 18:27–19:05 – Tipi Days & community-wide cultural learning experiences 19:06–20:10 – Pride in cultural events and how they impact all students 20:11–21:00 – Graduation rates, educational attainment, and future opportunity 21:01–22:10 – Truth before reconciliation: the need for shared effort 22:11–23:14 – Cultural respect, asking questions, and learning with humility 23:15–24:03 – Advice to those beginning their reconciliation journey 24:04–25:14 – Strengths of Medicine Hat: welcome, beauty, cleanliness 25:15–26:58 – Local life: biking, walking trails, Police Point Park love 26:59–28:26 – Encounters with turkey vultures and local cactus discoveries 28:27–30:42 – What could Medicine Hat work on? Darrell reflects on its many positives 30:43–32:04 – Community involvement outside work: youth work, presentations 32:05–34:39 – Basketball coaching & golf: injury setbacks and recovery lessons 34:40–36:07 – Who’s next? Darrell recommends Courtney Legacy and her mom, Julie 36:08–37:04 – Wrap-up, thanks, and outro credits

In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Corey sits down with Ryan Oscar, a passionate advocate for recovery and resilience, and a founding member of Our Collective Journey. Ryan opens up about his path to Medicine Hat, shaped by adversity, addiction, a transformative cross-country bike ride, and ultimately—purpose. He discusses his experience in the oil patch, recovery, launching Our Collective Journey, and building community-based supports that meet people where they are.Ryan reflects on Medicine Hat as more than a place—it’s where he found acceptance, meaning, and love. From hot air balloons to recovery coaching in schools, Ryan is helping reframe conversations about mental health, addiction, and community resilience. This episode is a testament to the power of honesty, storytelling, and place-based identity.00:00 – 00:01:10 Intro to the podcast and season theme Importance of lived experience and community narrative 00:01:10 – 00:01:47 Podcast is separate from Corey’s role in education but intersects with the community00:01:47 – 00:02:14 Guest Introduction: Ryan Oscar Recovery coach and director with Our Collective Journey Host of *From Darkness to Life* podcast00:02:14 – 00:02:56 Double-duty podcaster: Ryan records his podcast before guesting on this one Excitement about sharing both his personal journey and community insights00:02:56 – 00:04:05 Arrival in Medicine Hat (2015) Originally from Swift Current, SK 00:04:05 – 00:06:21 Cross-Canada bike ride (Summer 2015) Joined ride to raise awareness for *recovery* (not addiction) 00:06:21 – 00:08:23 Return to Medicine Hat College Enrolled in Addictions Counselling during bike trip from a tent in New Brunswick 00:08:23 – 00:09:31 Early memories of Medicine Hat A city once associated with drinking now becomes a space for transformation00:09:31 – 00:11:03 Practicums and corrections work in Regina Work in a corrections-based substance treatment unit 00:11:03 – 00:13:00Founding Our Collective Journey (OCJ) Launched in response to local suicides in 2020 00:13:00 – 00:14:18 Community Response Support came from individuals, families, and spouses 00:14:18 – 00:16:34 “When you’re ready to tell the truth…” The power of honesty in recovery 00:16:34 – 00:19:00 Recovery Coaching → Resilience Coaching Working in schools not due to addiction crisis, but emotional disconnection 00:19:00 – 00:20:26Brain Story + Parenting Dramatic impact on parenting approach with his toddler 00:20:26 – 00:23:12 Hockey, Masculinity & Identity Toxic masculinity in hockey culture: pain, pressure, and silence Alcohol as a fast-pass to social acceptance 00:23:12 – 00:26:11 Finding Purpose in Medicine Hat Support groups became lifelines 00:26:11 – 00:28:12 How Medicine Hat Shaped His Identity Welcomed at every turn—from school to job interviews 00:28:12 – 00:29:46Collaboration in Medicine Hat Agencies in MH are collaborative, unlike turf-guarding seen in larger cities 00:29:46 – 00:33:20 Rise Up Balloon Festival Born out of COVID and mental health needs 00:33:20 – 00:37:01 Festival as a Mental Health Platform Using the balloon as a metaphor: “How do we rise together?”00:37:01 – 00:40:00 The Vulnerability of Sharing Importance of readiness before telling your story 00:40:00 – 00:42:29 What’s Next for Medicine Hat? Moving from crisis response to *resilience building* 00:42:29 – 00:45:56 The Resilience Scale Explained Visual model: Red Boxes (adversity) vs Green Boxes (support) 00:45:56 – 00:47:04What’s Next for Ryan? **00:47:04 – 00:48:07** 📢 Where to Find Ryan + OCJ - Website: [ourcollectivejourney.ca](https://www.ourcollectivejourney.ca) - Podcast: *From Darkness to Life* - Social media: Facebook, Instagram00:48:07 – 00:49:01 Who best represents Medicine Hat? Ryan’s nomination: Willie Tallon 00:49:01 – 00:49:41 Credits & Closing

In this heartfelt and powerful episode, Chasity Cairns shares her personal and professional journey — from growing up Métis and Ojibwe in Manitoba to helping shape Indigenous cultural and community support in Medicine Hat, Alberta. Through candid reflections, Chasity discusses family legacy, identity, reconciliation, and the importance of creating safe, culturally-grounded spaces. As she prepares to leave Medicine Hat for a provincial leadership role, she offers an inspiring call to continue the work of truth, healing, and change.Timestamps00:00 – 01:10 IntroductionCorey introduces the podcast and its focus on community and identity, with a special focus on Medicine Hat. 01:11 – 02:24 Chasity is welcomed. Discussion on how Corey and Chasity’s paths have crossed through community initiatives.02:25 – 04:06 Chasity’s RootsChasity describes her upbringing in Manitoba, her Métis and Ojibwe heritage, and how those dual identities influenced her work.04:07 – 07:46 A Baseball Legacy & CBC DocumentaryChasity recounts her family’s baseball team, their success across North America, and a CBC documentary that followed them one summer.07:47 – 09:48 Big Families, First Cousins, and Intergenerational ShiftsChasity reflects on growing up with a huge extended family 09:49 – 11:07 First Impressions of Medicine HatMoving to Medicine Hat and wondering, “Where are all the Indigenous people?” 11:08 – 12:33 A Hidden Métis PopulationChasity discusses the invisibility of many Indigenous people in the city and the historical absence of nearby reserves.12:34 – 14:14 Changing Identities & Systems of SupportHow reconciliation efforts have empowered more people to identify as Indigenous 14:15 – 18:13 Community Disparities and the Drive to Make ChangeA deeply personal reflection on why she left her community for Medicine Hat.18:14 – 21:28 From Children’s Services to Social WorkChasity details her path through education and what led her to advocate for culturally-rooted social programs.21:29 – 24:22 Building Programs from the Ground UpCreating parenting and children’s programming at Miywasin Friendship Centre.24:23 – 27:27 Loss, Covid, and the Emotional Toll of Frontline WorkChasity shares the heartbreak of losing clients to addiction and violence during the pandemic27:28 – 31:18 Building Indigenous Spaces at the CollegeFrom crafting circles to convocation ceremonies.31:19 – 35:00 “Where Are You From?” – The Importance of Home CultureChasity longs for the vibrant cultural life of her upbringing, like jigging and kitchen parties35:01 – 38:29 Residential Schools, Cultural Recovery, and HealingExploring generational trauma and how reconnecting with ceremony has helped her family and community heal.38:30 – 42:07 The Truth Before ReconciliationWhy understanding and “sitting in the truth” is essential before progress can be made.42:08 – 46:02 Chasity shares why learning protocol and connecting with specific Nations matters more than broad labels.46:03 – 50:06 From parenting to addiction recovery, culturally-based programs are essential tools of healing and empowerment.50:07 – 53:19 Chasity explains her next steps.53:20 – 57:36Why Indigenous representation at decision-making tables is crucial57:37 – 01:03:57Chasity calls on the community to continue reconciliation, decolonization, and to create spaces where Indigenous culture thrives.01:03:58 – 01:05:06 Cultural Teachings Are Lifelong LearningShe reflects on how much there is to learn01:05:07 – 01:09:07 Chasity suggests connecting with a variety of Indigenous voices in the community01:09:08 – 01:11:20Chasity reflects on her time in Medicine Hat, her impact, and her gratitude for the community01:11:21 – 01:14:02 Closing RemarksLinks:https://www.mhc.ab.ca/campus-services/diversity-and-inclusion/indigenous-engagementhttp://miywasincentre.net/https://www.metishousing.ca/mtis-housing-home-page/https://motivationlocal.com/

In this episode, Medicine Hat podcaster Corey Sadlemyer welcomes Trevor Moore to the show. Trevor shares his experiences as a golf professional, a magician and as an entertainer. Together they explore his more recent work as a personal coach and key note speaker importantly how he works through mental health challenges to lead a life of purpose. Trevor's background and involvement in Medicine Hat allow him to provide unique insights into how the community has impacted him.00:00 – 00:01:10 | IntroCorey introduces Motivation Local—a podcast exploring the intersection of place and identity, with a specific focus on Medicine Hat.00:01:11 – 00:02:09 | Introducing Trevor MooreTrevor Moore is described as a beloved “Hatter” known for his work as a golf coach, entertainer, magician, emcee, and more recently, a mindset coach and speaker.00:02:10 – 00:04:00 | Shared History at the Golf CourseCorey and Trevor reflect on their shared past at the local golf course and the people and moments that shaped their youth.00:04:00 – 00:06:00 | How Trevor’s Family Came to Medicine HatTrevor recounts the unique story of how his family ended up in Medicine Hat “by accident—but kind of by design” due to mortgage chaos in the 1980s.00:06:01 – 00:08:00 | Vernon Memories & Culture ShockThough he left Vernon, BC, in kindergarten, Trevor shares how the mountains, trees, and “peanut pool” left a lasting imprint. The prairie landscape of Brooks and Medicine Hat was a stark contrast.00:08:01 – 00:10:00 | Bear Phobias, Golfing in the Mountains & A Flag-Eating BearFrom childhood bear phobias to hilarious stories of mistaken bear encounters on golf courses, including one unforgettable moment in Waterton.00:10:01 – 00:12:08 | Early Memories of Medicine HatTrevor recalls summers at Crestwood Pool, tobogganing at Kin Coulee, and how Medicine Hat came to feel like home through the everyday magic of childhood.00:12:09 – 00:15:00 | Leaving Medicine Hat? Not Really.Trevor reflects on how, unlike many, he never truly felt the urge to leave Medicine Hat and why he thinks many eventually come back.00:15:01 – 00:18:30 | A Winding Career Path: Golf Pro to Magician to Mindset CoachTrevor walks through his journey—from PGA golf professional to comedy magician to his current career as a keynote speaker and personal development coach.00:18:31 – 00:21:05 | The Entrepreneurial SparkWhere did his entrepreneurial drive come from? Trevor credits his wife’s perspective and encouragement to “do it differently.”00:21:06 – 00:24:50 | Coaching & Communication as Core SkillsHow Trevor discovered his true talents were less about golf and more about communication, connection, and helping people build confidence.00:24:51 – 00:29:00 | Mental Health & VulnerabilityTrevor opens up about living with OCD, anxiety, depression, chronic pain—and later, a late-in-life autism diagnosis. He shares how these experiences fuel his work today.00:29:01 – 00:36:00 | Mental Health in Community ContextsTrevor and Corey reflect on Medicine Hat’s mental health challenges, COVID’s impact, and the need to normalize care just like we do for physical health.00:36:01 – 00:43:00 | Keys to Resilience & Mental ClarityWhy clarity, perspective, and “realism” (not just optimism) matter in moments of mental strain. Trevor shares stories and analogies to help listeners reframe struggle.00:43:01 – 00:48:00 | What Advice Would You Give to Medicine Hat?Trevor challenges listeners to stop calling it “The Forgotten Corner” and instead embrace it as “The Hidden Corner.” Celebrate what the city has—volunteers, rec life, arts, and above all, people.00:48:01 – 00:51:00 | What’s Next for Trevor?Trevor looks to expand his coaching and speaking work and dreams of writing a book to help more people navigate mental health with honesty and humour.00:51:01 – 00:54:00 | Outro & RecommendationsTrevor recommends a future guest who can talk about the literal and figurative building blocks of Medicine Hat.