It's the first pod of 2026 and what better way to start a new year than a conversation with Florence Maheu; Canadian slalom kayaker, Olympian, and just the loveliest human with a refreshing perspective on life.

Recently retired from an 18 year career as a professional athlete, Flo takes us behind the scenes and tells us how she first discovered (and fell in love with) kayaking and walks us through the realities of her rigorous training and travel schedule and how, during those demanding years, she also managed to grow up,  attend university, meet a partner, and attempt to stay connected with her family and friends. 

We also talk about her experience at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics (which were actually held in 2021 because of COVID) and how she made the decision to retire, drawing parallels between her previous career and her current one at the Ottawa Police Service.

@the_otherside_pod