In this engaging conversation, Sarah and Simonne invite a special guest, Salima Jadavji, to share and explore her concept of 'mental beauty,' emphasizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being. 

They discuss cultural differences in attitudes towards self-care, the generational shift in perspectives on work and mental health, and the significance of language in shaping our understanding of these concepts. If you are curious about how to cultivate more compassion and acceptance, and how to create safe spaces for open conversations about mental health, you will love this episode.

Quote of the Week: “Mental beauty isn’t about becoming a better version of yourself. It’s about embracing wholeness.” Salima Jadavji

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

0:00 Do you need mental beauty?

01:48 Understanding Mental Beauty

05:28 Cultural Context and Mental Beauty

10:06 Generational Perspectives on Mental Health

15:34 The Shift Towards Self-Compassion

19:56 Creating Safe Spaces for Conversations

24:08 Integrating Mind, Body, and Emotions

30:25 Redefining Work and Self-Care

35:30 The Importance of Language in Mental Beauty

40:13 Key Takeaways and Reflections

47:47 See you next time

Join Sarah, Simonne & Salima to hear them talk about how:

Mental beauty is an invitation to explore one's inner world with curiosity and compassion, and to realize how aligned and intertwined it is with our physical, spiritual, and a more ‘whole-self’ perspective. Like most conversations, Sarah and Simonne are curious about the generational component and build on past episodes that show how intergenerational integration is possible through embracing mental beauty. With Simonne still studying overseas, currently in Finland, of course, the conversation with Salima naturally navigated to cultural differences and similarities in how mental beauty is perceived and practiced, too. 

If you are curious about a fresh perspective on how mental beauty offers an enlightened view of well-being, self-care, and mental health, and how it provides a guilt-free lens for living a fulfilling life, you will love this episode.

If you would like to learn about this live and in person with Salima and Sarah, join them at Salima’s inaugural “Dare To Re-Treat” event on May 31, 2026, just outside Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Did you like this episode? Then you’ll likely also like this one, which asks the question… Is Your Self-Care Non-Negotiable?

Listen to learn how integrating your mind, body, and emotions leads to holistic well-being.

Greatness Together Podcast Links:

Do You Show Yourself Love?

Greatness Magnified
Subscribe to The Greatness Together Podcast

Can we just take a minute to celebrate that this is our 50th podcast?  

In the 50th episode of the Greatness Together podcast, Sarah and her husband Mark discuss the secrets to a joyful marriage, sharing insights on humour, teamwork, communication, and the importance of maintaining a healthy relationship - with themselves and each other. They reflect on their experiences as parents and partners, emphasizing the need for open dialogue and shared responsibilities. With a lot of wacky and a bit of wisdom, they highlight the significance of self-love and understanding in fostering a strong bond. Their marriage is not perfect, they're quick to point out, but that's actually what they feel all the more proud of.

Quote of the Week:  "We work well as a team, and it cannot be lopsided; it has to be 50/50. And you have to give it your all…all the time" Mark McVanel

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

• Can Communication Help Build a Stronger Marriage? 0:00
• The Secrets of Marriage Podcast Recap: 2:00
• Humour in Marriage and Parenting: 5:00
• The Importance of Teamwork in Marriage: 10:00
• Practices for Maintaining a Healthy Marriage: 15:00
• Communication and Planning in Relationships: 20:00
• What We Love About Each Other: 25:00
• See you next time: 34:22

Join Sarah & Mark to hear them talk about how:

Teamwork is essential for a successful relationship, and that humour is a must-have in marriage and parenting. They discuss how open communication helps resolve conflicts and that practicing self-love is crucial to loving others. 

They remind us that regular check-ins can strengthen relationships and that shared responsibilities create balance in marriage.  They talk about how it's okay to fight and reveal their favourite book about this - "The Principles Secrets for Making Marriage Work" - because healthy conflict is a sign of a sustainable marriage. Add in a little laughter to diffuse tense situations, and decades can fly by, still best friends as well as spouses.

Did you like this episode? Then you'll probably also like this one, from the last time Mark was a guest: "How Do You Make a Marriage Last?" 

Sarah & Mark together are sweet, poignant and funny! This is definitely one you won't want to miss!

Greatness Together Podcast Links:

Growing Together Without Losing Yourself
Greatness Magnified
Subscribe to The Greatness Together Podcast

In this heart-to-heart chat, Simonne and Sarah dive deep into the fascinating (and sometimes frustrating!) cultural cadence of how we do life. We're talking about the huge gap between the non-stop, hustle-hard North American pace and the soul-soothing, savour-the-moment Mediterranean flow.

They're peeling back the layers on the true cost of speed, specifically how that relentless 'go-go-go' stress taxes our health, our joy, and our sustainable well-being. It's not just about getting things done; it's about whether we're burning out while doing it!

Quote of the Week: 

"Pace is something you choose. That means you can slow it down." Simonne McVanel

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

• 00:00 Cultural Differences in Lifestyle and Pace
• 04:57 Pros and Cons of Fast vs. Slow Living
• 10:00 The Impact of Lifestyle on Health
• 15:18 Mindfulness and Slowing Down
• 20:06 Stress and Its Effects on the Body
• 24:36 Strategies for a Slower, Healthier Life
• 29:50 Embracing Gratitude and Intentional Living
• 38.18 See you next time!

This conversation is a powerful invitation to embrace intentionality and presence. It emphasizes the vital need to tap the brakes, bring mindfulness to our daily rituals, and really show up for the moments that matter. They share tangible, recognition-infused strategies for crafting a slower, healthier, and more gratitude-rich life—one where we deliberately choose well-being over the mindless pursuit of efficiency.

It's a rallying cry for making every day count, not by packing more in, but by being present for the blessings that are already there. While studying in Europe in a program filled with students from around the world, Simonne's seeing the cultural influence on pace: our beliefs about goals, schedules, and priorities vary by country, and she's realized that North Americans might have an overly intense, not always fast-paced cadence. As she's tried on different 'paces' for size, she's realizing that slower isn't just better; for her, it's safer, happier, and satisfying.

Did you like this episode? Then you'll probably also like this one on Can SLOWER Help You Unlock a Healthier Life? 

Greatness Together Podcast Links:

The Problem with Busy
Greatness Magnified
Subscribe to The Greatness Together Podcast  

On this episode of The Greatness Together Podcast, Sarah & Simonne take a look at the critical role of public speaking across various careers, highlighting that even those who may not think they need it will find it essential in certain roles. It discusses how public speaking skills are necessary for effective communication and leadership, regardless of the profession.

In this dynamic conversation, they dive deep into the critical, non-negotiable role that public speaking plays across all professional domains. Forget those old excuses like, "I'm just an engineer," or "I only work with data." We're here to tell you that the microphone is always on!

Quote of the Week: 

"Never underestimate how confident you can be by simply being prepared." Simonne McVanel

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

• How Can I Conquer My Fear of Public Speaking? 0:00
• Why do we fear public speaking? 0:30
• Label yourself with positivity: 3:00
• Ditch the negativity bias. 6:30           
• When public speaking might be necessary: 9:00
• The importance of preparation: 11:30
• Mindset and self-perception: 16:00
• Next time: How Can We Slow Down?: 18:16

Join Sarah & Simonne to hear them talk about how:

We explore why everyone—yes, everyone—will encounter a moment where these skills aren't just nice to have, but absolutely essential. Whether you're pitching an idea to your boss, leading a critical team meeting, facilitating a difficult conversation, or stepping up into a genuine leadership role, your ability to communicate clearly, confidently, and compellingly is the difference between being heard and being ignored.

This episode is a powerful reminder that public speaking is, in essence, elevated communication and the foundation of effective leadership. Tune in to discover why mastering this skill is the ultimate way to own your impact and unlock your true professional greatness, no matter your title!

Greatness Together Podcast Links:

EP1: Should we become procrastinators?

EP9: Is it better to be introverted or extroverted?

Greatness Magnified

Subscribe to The Greatness Together Podcast

On this episode of the Greatness Together Podcast, Sarah is diving headfirst into an acronym that's a total game-changer for your well-being. It's time to talk about the power of going a little SLOWER!

This isn't just a catchy word, friends; it's a luscious roadmap to a healthier, happier you. We're dissecting the six core ingredients you absolutely need to fuel your greatness—and they spell out SLOWER. Massive appreciation to speaker colleague Barry Green for this delicious acronym that will benefit us all for life!

Quote of the Week:

"Sometimes we need to slow down to handle the pace of work and modern life." Sarah McVanel

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

• 00:00 Can SLOWER help you unlock a healthier life?
• 01:00 Introduction to SLOWER: A New Perspective
• 02:20 The Importance of Sleep
• 03:42 Laughter: The Essential Ingredient
• 04:11 Oxygen: Breathing Life into Your Day
• 06:01 Hydration: The Power of Water
• 07:57 Exercise: Finding Your Joy in Movement
• 10:17 Real Food: Nourishing Your Body
• 14:14 See you next time… 

Join Sarah to hear her talk about how:

I'm peeling back the curtain on my own messy, imperfect journey with these elements—sharing some personal anecdotes and the little, practical tips you can use today to start integrating SLOWER into your daily rhythm.

It's all about making your well-being non-negotiable and finding the sheer, simple joy in prioritizing yourself. Because you can't pour from an empty cup, and your greatness deserves to be full!

Ready to slow down to speed up your health? Let's dive in!

Did you like this episode? You'll probably also like this one on: Is Sleep the Missing Ingredient to Your Greatness? 

Greatness Together Podcast Links:

• EP 22: Is Your People Pleasing a Problem? 
• EP 45: Could Discomfort Be Your Biggest Teacher?
• Greatness Magnified
• Subscribe to The Greatness Together Podcast

On this episode of the Greatness Together Podcast, Sarah is diving headfirst into an acronym that's a total game-changer for your well-being. It's time to talk about the power of going a little SLOWER!

This isn't just a catchy word, friends; it's a luscious roadmap to a healthier, happier you. We're dissecting the six core ingredients you absolutely need to fuel your greatness—and they spell out SLOWER. Massive appreciation to speaker colleague Barry Green for this delicious acronym that will benefit us all for life!

Quote of the Week:

"Sometimes we need to slow down to handle the pace of work and modern life." Sarah McVanel

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

• 00:00 Can SLOWER help you unlock a healthier life?
• 01:00 Introduction to SLOWER: A New Perspective
• 02:20 The Importance of Sleep
• 03:42 Laughter: The Essential Ingredient
• 04:11 Oxygen: Breathing Life into Your Day
• 06:01 Hydration: The Power of Water
• 07:57 Exercise: Finding Your Joy in Movement
• 10:17 Real Food: Nourishing Your Body
• 14:14 See you next time… 

Join Sarah to hear her talk about how:

I'm peeling back the curtain on my own messy, imperfect journey with these elements—sharing some personal anecdotes and the little, practical tips you can use today to start integrating SLOWER into your daily rhythm.

It's all about making your well-being non-negotiable and finding the sheer, simple joy in prioritizing yourself. Because you can't pour from an empty cup, and your greatness deserves to be full!

Ready to slow down to speed up your health? Let's dive in!

Did you like this episode? You'll probably also like this one on: Is Sleep the Missing Ingredient to Your Greatness? 

Greatness Together Podcast Links:

• EP 22: Is Your People Pleasing a Problem? 
• EP 45: Could Discomfort Be Your Biggest Teacher?
• Greatness Magnified
• Subscribe to The Greatness Together Podcast

In this conversation, Sarah and Simonne discuss the critical role of sleep in productivity, mental health, and overall well-being. They explore the consequences of sleep deprivation, the importance of understanding individual sleep patterns, and strategies for better sleep management. The discussion emphasizes the importance of prioritizing sleep for students and young adults, as it has a profound impact on both academic performance and emotional well-being.

Quote of the Week: 
"You can't outthink a tired brain." Sarah McVanel

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

• 00:00 The Importance of Sleep
• 02:45 Understanding Sleep Quality
• 06:25 Circadian Rhythms and Productivity
• 08:51 The Impact of Sleep on Health
• 11:49 Sleep and Academic Performance
• 14:28 Managing Sleep Anxiety
• 17:35 Building a Sleep Bank
• 20:15 Should you Sacrifice Sleep for Work?
• 22:54 …see you next time

Join Sarah & Simonne to hear about how:

• Many people sacrifice sleep for productivity, but it's detrimental.
• Sleep deprivation can lead to serious health issues.
• Quality of sleep is as important as quantity.
• Different individuals have unique circadian rhythms.
• Sleep is essential for memory retention and cognitive function.
• Students often underestimate the importance of sleep for exams.
• Sleep deprivation can mimic the effects of intoxication.
• Managing sleep can improve overall well-being and mood.
• Understanding sleep patterns can help in scheduling tasks.
• Prioritizing sleep can lead to better academic and social outcomes.
  
  

Did you like this episode? You'll probably also like this one on: Is Your Self-Care Non-Negotiable? 

Greatness Together Podcast Links:

EP11: The Problem with Busy
EP 25: Do You Show Yourself Love?
Greatness Magnified
Subscribe to The Greatness Together Podcast

In this conversation, Sarah and Simonne discuss the critical role of sleep in productivity, mental health, and overall well-being. They explore the consequences of sleep deprivation, the importance of understanding individual sleep patterns, and strategies for better sleep management. The discussion emphasizes the importance of prioritizing sleep for students and young adults, as it has a profound impact on both academic performance and emotional well-being.

Quote of the Week: "You can't outthink a tired brain." Sarah McVanel

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

• 00:00 The Importance of Sleep
• 02:45 Understanding Sleep Quality
• 06:25 Circadian Rhythms and Productivity
• 08:51 The Impact of Sleep on Health
• 11:49 Sleep and Academic Performance
• 14:28 Managing Sleep Anxiety
• 17:35 Building a Sleep Bank
• 20:15 Should you Sacrifice Sleep for Work?
• 22:54 …see you next time

Join Sarah & Simonne to hear about how:

• Many people sacrifice sleep for productivity, but it's detrimental.
• Sleep deprivation can lead to serious health issues.
• Quality of sleep is as important as quantity.
• Different individuals have unique circadian rhythms.
• Sleep is essential for memory retention and cognitive function.
• Students often underestimate the importance of sleep for exams.
• Sleep deprivation can mimic the effects of intoxication.
• Managing sleep can improve overall well-being and mood.
• Understanding sleep patterns can help in scheduling tasks.
• Prioritizing sleep can lead to better academic and social outcomes.

Did you like this episode? You'll probably also like this one on: Is Your Self-Care Non-Negotiable? 

Greatness Together Podcast Links:

EP11: The Problem with BusyEP 25: Do You Show Yourself Love? Greatness Magnified Subscribe to The Greatness Together Podcast

In this episode of the Greatness Together Podcast, Sarah and Simonne explore the theme of stepping outside one's comfort zone, discussing the importance of new experiences, the role of support systems, and the psychological aspects of change. They delve into the benefits of discomfort, the concept of sunk cost, and how personal growth often requires taking risks. The discussion highlights that while change can be daunting, it also presents an opportunity for growth and learning.

Quote of the Week: 

"What do you want? What if you weren't doubtful? What if what you want is worth the discomfort to get there?" Sarah McVanel

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

• 00:00 Stepping Outside Comfort Zones
• 02:38 The Importance of Change and Novelty
• 06:14 Understanding Neurotransmitters and Neuromodulators
• 09:16 Learning and Growth Through Experience
• 12:17 The Role of Commitment in Managing Discomfort
• 15:55 Reflections on Regret and Life Choices
• 17:33 Building Resilience Through Discomfort
• 21:16 The Power of Support Networks
• 23:25 Embracing Change and Reversibility
• 26:34 See you next time…

Join Sarah & Simonne to hear about how:

• ·  Stepping outside your comfort zone is essential for growth.
• ·  New experiences can be overwhelming, but are often rewarding.
• ·  Support systems play a crucial role in taking risks.
• ·  Understanding neurotransmitters can enhance learning experiences.
• ·  Sunk cost theory explains why we stick with commitments.
• ·  You don't have to compare your journey to others.
• ·  Embracing discomfort can lead to personal development.
• ·  Change is a necessary part of life and learning.
• ·  You can always change your mind if something doesn't work out.
• ·  Finding joy in discomfort can lead to unexpected rewards.

Did you like this episode? You'll probably also like this one on "Why Is It So Hard to Accept a Compliment?"

Greatness Together Podcast Links:

Why Is It So Hard to Accept a Compliment?
Greatness Magnified
Subscribe to The Greatness Together Podcast

In this episode of the Greatness Together Podcast, Sarah and Simonne explore the theme of stepping outside one's comfort zone, discussing the importance of new experiences, the role of support systems, and the psychological aspects of change. They delve into the benefits of discomfort, the concept of sunk cost, and how personal growth often requires taking risks. The discussion highlights that while change can be daunting, it also presents an opportunity for growth and learning.

Quote of the Week: 

"What do you want? What if you weren't doubtful? What if what you want is worth the discomfort to get there?" Sarah McVanel

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

• 00:00 Stepping Outside Comfort Zones
• 02:38 The Importance of Change and Novelty
• 06:14 Understanding Neurotransmitters and Neuromodulators
• 09:16 Learning and Growth Through Experience
• 12:17 The Role of Commitment in Managing Discomfort
• 15:55 Reflections on Regret and Life Choices
• 17:33 Building Resilience Through Discomfort
• 21:16 The Power of Support Networks
• 23:25 Embracing Change and Reversibility
• 26:34 See you next time…

Join Sarah & Simonne to hear about how:

• ·  Stepping outside your comfort zone is essential for growth.
• ·  New experiences can be overwhelming, but are often rewarding.
• ·  Support systems play a crucial role in taking risks.
• ·  Understanding neurotransmitters can enhance learning experiences.
• ·  Sunk cost theory explains why we stick with commitments.
• ·  You don't have to compare your journey to others.
• ·  Embracing discomfort can lead to personal development.
• ·  Change is a necessary part of life and learning.
• ·  You can always change your mind if something doesn't work out.
• ·  Finding joy in discomfort can lead to unexpected rewards.

Did you like this episode? You'll probably also like this one on "Why Is It So Hard to Accept a Compliment?"

Greatness Together Podcast Links:

Why Is It So Hard to Accept a Compliment? Greatness Magnified Subscribe to The Greatness Together Podcast