SPEAKEASY with Kendra Fisher

Kendra Fisher invites Michael Spivak, co-founder of Coldture, to explore the transformative power of cold plunges and saunas, delving into their profound effects on both physical and mental well-being.

The conversation unfolds as they discuss personal experiences with cold therapy, revealing how such practices can foster resilience and emotional healing. Michael shares his journey from a hockey player to a breathwork instructor, emphasizing that the roots of his passion for cold plunging stem from a desire to understand and process his inner self. The dialogue captures the essence of how embracing discomfort can lead to significant personal growth, urging listeners to consider how they might integrate similar practices into their own lives.

As the discussion progresses, Michael highlights the evolution of Coldture, from its inception to its current status as a leader in cold plunge manufacturing. He recounts the skepticism he faced from friends and family when he first introduced the idea of a high-end cold plunge, illustrating the common entrepreneurial journey filled with doubt and determination. The pair also touch on the broader wellness community's shift towards embracing contrast therapies, noting how these modalities have gained visibility and acceptance over recent years. Kendra and Michael's chemistry enhances the conversation, making it not just informative but also relatable, as they share laughs and insights about their personal connections to hockey and the wellness industry.

The episode culminates in a rich discussion about the importance of integrity in business and personal practice. Kendra emphasizes the need for authenticity, particularly when promoting wellness products, and Michael echoes this sentiment, asserting that true success in entrepreneurship comes from a genuine belief in one's mission. Michael's commitment to fostering a community around wellness and his reflections on the challenges of leadership provide listeners with valuable lessons on collaboration, accountability, and the importance of seeking help from others. This conversation serves as a motivating reminder that personal wellness practices, such as cold plunging and saunas, can be gateways to deeper self-awareness and community connection, encouraging listeners to explore their own paths to resilience and health.

Takeaways:

• Cold plunging and sauna use can significantly benefit both physical and mental health.
• Michael Spivak’s entrepreneurial journey highlights the importance of perseverance and belief in one's vision.
• Integrating wellness practices like cold plunging into daily life can foster community connection.
• The journey of entrepreneurship involves learning to delegate and empower others effectively.
• Understanding one's personal healing journey is essential for benefiting from wellness modalities.
• Creating a safe and supportive environment for wellness can enhance personal growth and resilience.

For more info check out coldture.com.

Kendra’s conversation with Luke Zarato is a compelling exploration of sobriety, personal identity, and the journey toward self-acceptance. As an alcohol-free life coach and marathon runner, Luke brings a unique perspective to the discussion, sharing his experiences of navigating a life steeped in alcohol culture from a young age.

The episode takes listeners through Luke's transformation from a party-centric lifestyle to one of sobriety, emphasizing the denial and struggles he faced along the way. In a particularly poignant moment, he recounts a pivotal therapy session that catalyzed his commitment to sobriety and sparked a new identity that he proudly embraces today.

Luke speaks candidly about how building connections with others has been a cornerstone of his recovery. He discusses the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in these relationships, illustrating how sharing one’s story can empower both the individual and those around them. As he embraces his role in life coaching, Luke reinforces the message that it’s not just about helping others but also about continuing to reflect on his own journey and growth. This exploration of mutual support highlights the healing power of community, especially in the context of mental health and addiction. Ultimately, this conversation is a heartfelt reminder of the importance of connection, self-acceptance, and the small steps that lead to significant transformations.

Going into the vault with a conversation from November of 2022 with current member of the PWHL's Montreal Victoire and Team Canada, Erin Ambrose.

We dive into mental health, hockey, identity and Hockey Canada. 

Kurtis Gabriel, former NHL enforcer, joins Kendra to discuss the profound challenges of transitioning from professional sports to life afterward, particularly in the context of his recent diagnosis of bipolar disorder. The conversation delves into the emotional complexities athletes face when their identities are tied to their sport, highlighting the duality of experiencing euphoria and despair.

Kurtis shares his journey of grappling with loss, both in terms of his career and the death of his father, and how this shaped his understanding of mental health. Throughout the dialogue, they explore the importance of finding purpose beyond athletics and the need for open conversations about mental health. The episode emphasizes the value of connection, empathy, and the journey of self-discovery as essential elements in navigating life's ups and downs.

Takeaways:

• The journey of transitioning from professional sports to everyday life can be surprisingly challenging and disorienting.
• Living with bipolar disorder brings unique struggles, especially in high-pressure environments like professional sports.
• Finding purpose after retirement means exploring new passions rather than simply replacing old ones.
• Grief can be a testament to love, reminding us of the deep connections we have.
• The importance of open conversations about mental health cannot be overstated in fostering understanding and support.
• Practicing mindfulness and being present can help individuals navigate life's challenges more effectively.

Mitch Gourley joins Kendra to discuss the critical intersection of physical fitness and mental wellness within the firefighting community. They emphasize the importance of being in both the best physical and mental states to effectively respond to emergencies, as well as the necessity of addressing mental health proactively rather than reactively.

Mitch shares his personal journey from focusing on aesthetics in fitness to prioritizing mobility and mental resilience, highlighting how experiences from both his career and personal life have shaped his approach. The conversation also delves into the significance of processing emotions and experiences rather than compartmentalizing them, advocating for a holistic view of wellness that encompasses both physical and mental health.

Together, they challenge the stigma surrounding mental fitness in first responders and encourage listeners to embrace their struggles as a pathway to growth and understanding.

Takeaways:

• The importance of mental fitness in high-stress jobs like firefighting cannot be overstated.
• Building resilience before entering the firefighting profession is crucial for long-term success.
• Understand that trauma can come from both work-related experiences and personal life events.
• Practicing acceptance and mindfulness can lead to better emotional management over time.
• Exercise and physical fitness are vital tools for maintaining mental health and wellness.
• Compartmentalization may be necessary during emergencies, but emotional processing is essential afterward.

Connect with Mitch at everydayheroesfitness and on Instagram. Connect with Kendra on Instagram.

Coach Chippy shares his journey of self-discovery and healing, emphasizing the importance of letting go of anxiety about the future and regrets from the past to live in the present moment. As he transitions from creating crypto content to becoming a beloved figure in the hockey community, he reflects on the pressures of maintaining relevance in the digital age and the mental toll it can take.

Through his comedic videos and player impersonations, Chippy aims to spread joy and laughter, acknowledging the deeper purpose behind his content. He discusses the significance of community connection and the role of personal growth in his creative process. This conversation dives into the challenges of authenticity and the journey of finding one's voice while navigating the complexities of mental health and self-acceptance.

Takeaways:

• Letting go of past anxieties and future worries allows for creativity to flourish.
• The journey of self-discovery often involves embracing vulnerability and being present.
• Finding your unique style and flow can lead to personal and creative growth.
• Forgiveness of oneself and others is crucial for healing and moving forward.
• Engaging in community and personal connections can enhance mental well-being and happiness.
• Prioritizing mental health involves taking breaks and managing expectations in the creative process.

Check out Coach Chippy on TikTok and YouTube and connect with Kendra on Instagram.

Kendra Fisher welcomes listeners to "Speakeasy" for Part 1 of an insightful conversation with Coach Chippy, a well-known figure in the hockey world. The episode delves into Coach Chippy's journey, from his early days playing hockey and navigating school life to confronting mental health challenges during university.

Despite the pressures of academics and sports, he struggled with anxiety and depression, leading him to explore holistic approaches such as meditation and self-awareness. These experiences prompted a transformative journey of self-discovery, helping him reshape his life and career.

As the conversation unfolds, Coach Chippy shares how his newfound understanding of consciousness and energy paved the way for his success as a content creator and influencer in the hockey community.

Check out Part 2 of the conversation next week.

Takeaways:

• The podcast explores the journey of Coach Chippy, a hockey content creator, from his early days in hockey to becoming a beloved figure in the hockey community.
• Kendra Fisher and Coach Chippy discuss the challenges of navigating mental health, identity, and personal growth during university years.
• Coach Chippy shares his experiences with anxiety and depression, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and mental health support.
• The conversation touches on the pressures of academic success and the impact it can have on one's mental well-being.
• Coach Chippy emphasizes the role of creativity, self-discovery, and mindfulness in overcoming personal challenges and finding purpose.
• The episode underscores the importance of open conversations about mental health and personal struggles, encouraging listeners to seek support and share their own stories.

Check out Coach Chippy on TikTok and YouTube and connect with Kendra on Instagram.

During the pandemic, in effort to stay connected, some friends and I sat down for some candid chats, this is one of them! Join Brady and I as we discuss mental health, addictions, hockey and recovery.

During the pandemic, in effort to stay connected, some friends and I sat down for some candid chats, this is one of them! Join Corey and I as we discuss everything from his newest diagnosis, to which one of us your want in your next charity foursome on the golf course. Amazing things come from vulnerability, I am reminded of this every time Corey and I find time to get together.

There are so many responses to dealing with darkness; ways that we manage grief, tragedy and challenges. Join John and I as we discuss what happens when we get intentional with coping. Most don’t believe they can can access certain tools to cope; which is why this is one of my favourite discussions to date. What if you could learn how to get out of your own way? John has such an incredible ability to explain how this could be made possible, and during a time of year when so many are struggling, it feels like a perfect time to learn how to laugh through pain.