In this episode of Workplaces That Work, I’m joined by Jackie Knough, Executive Director of Our Kids Count, a nonprofit in Thunder Bay doing incredible work for children and families.

We talk about what it means to truly lead with heart, how to build trust across a team, and the power of asking for help. From flexible schedules to creating new growth opportunities, this conversation is full of practical insight, honesty, and inspiration for anyone in a leadership role—or hoping to be.

Key Takeaways:

Redefining Retention – It's not just about pay. Creating a workplace people want to stay in takes flexibility, care, and opportunities for real growth.

No One-Size-Fits-All – When leaders take time to understand what each person needs, they can create roles that fit—and build a culture where people feel seen and supported.

Transparency Builds Trust – Being open about challenges, funding, and decision-making helps everyone feel included and more connected to the bigger picture.

Asking for Help Is a Strength – Great leaders don’t do it alone. Reaching out, building partnerships, and leaning on others can unlock more support than expected.

Collaboration Is the Cornerstone – Amazing things happen when people work together. Community partnerships, shared events, and collective energy lead to real impact.

Leadership Is a Work in Progress – You don’t have to have it all figured out. Being open to learning, feedback, and a little vulnerability makes for better leadership—and better teams.

Events Mentioned:

• Duck Race – May 31 at Fort William Historical Park

• For the Love of Pizza – Every Tuesday in May

• Golf Tournament – July 17

• Ribfest – August at the waterfront

• Mega Bike – September 18–19

• Haunted Harbor Family Day – October 11

Get the details and tickets at ourkidscount.ca!

Let’s Connect!

I’d love to hear what you think of this episode. Got a question or topic you’d love to hear on the podcast? Email me at [email protected].

Find me on socials:LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Want to help your team thrive by creating a workplace where people feel valued, confident, and connected? Let’s chat about how I can support you.

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review—it truly helps others find the show.

And as always—let’s keep creating workplaces that work.

In this episode of Workplaces That Work, I’m joined by the vibrant and thoughtful Jenn Barrow—hairstylist, HR grad, new author, and mom of two—whose first book Tigers and Teddy Bears is sparking heartfelt conversations about identity, emotion, and permission to be our full selves.

Jenn and I met serendipitously at an International Women’s Day event, and from the moment we started talking, it was clear we had a lot to say—and a lot in common. This episode is all about shaking off labels, embracing the full spectrum of who we are, and realizing… there’s no one way to live, work, parent, or lead.

Key Takeaways:

You Don’t Have to Choose—You Can Be Both
We all carry both strength and softness. Being a “tiger” and a “teddy bear” isn’t a contradiction—it’s what makes us whole. There’s power in embracing the full range of who we are.

There’s No One Way to Work
Fulfillment doesn’t come from following a traditional path. Whether it’s a 9-to-5, shift work, creative gig, or something totally unconventional—your way of working is valid.

Break the Labels
We’ve all been handed limiting labels—based on gender, role, personality, or expectations. It’s time to push back and create space for people to show up as their full, layered selves.

The Power of the “Good Kind of Uncomfortable”
Growth doesn’t happen in the comfort zone. The good kind of uncomfortable is the kind that challenges us to learn, reflect, and stretch into new possibilities—even when it’s scary.

You Be You
There’s no one way to live, feel, or lead. The more permission we give ourselves (and others) to be who we truly are, the more honest, inclusive, and connected our lives—and workplaces—become.

Resources Mentioned:

Tigers and Teddy Bears by Jennifer Barrow – Available on Amazon, Indigo, Barnes & Noble, and local vendors listed on Jenn’s websiteMerch and apparel with a message coming soon!

Let’s Connect!

If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you!

Have a topic or guest idea? Reach out anytime: [email protected]

Follow me on socials:LinkedIn | Instagram | Facebook

Want to help your team thrive by creating a workplace where people feel valued, confident, and connected? Let’s chat about how I can support you.

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and review—it truly helps others find the show.

Thanks for tuning in. And remember—there’s no one way to be, but there is a way that’s right for you. 🐯🧸✨

Be part of the impact.

I’m joining Podcasthon: Podcasters United for Impact this week to shine a light on a cause that truly matters. In this episode, I sat down with Linda Bruins, Executive Director of Evergreen: A United Neighbourhood, a grassroots organization making a real difference in Thunder Bay’s Simpson-Ogden community.

Evergreen is more than a safe space for youth—it’s a second home where they find support, respect, and belonging. Linda shares how consistency, trust, and the power of community help young people navigate challenges, build resilience, and create a better future. This one is full of heart and hope.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Showing Up – Sometimes, the biggest impact comes from simply being there.

• Respect Over Everything – Kids at Evergreen learn life skills through everyday interactions—sharing meals, taking turns, and supporting each other.

• Breaking the Cycle – Young people are stepping up to be the change they want to see, supporting their peers in ways that will ripple into the future.

• Safe Spaces Matter – Evergreen provides a place where kids can just be kids, without fear or judgment.

• How You Can Help – Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word, small efforts can create big change.

Resources Mentioned

Evergreen: A United NeighbourhoodPodcasthonRocking Spring Fundraiser Event – March 29th

Connect with Linda on LinkedIn

If you have any thoughts you'd like to share about this episode, or an idea for a future episode topic, email me at: ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.

Find me on the socials:

⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠

Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with ⁠⁠⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠⁠⁠?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Let’s chat⁠⁠.⁠⁠

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.

Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!

I may be kicking off 2025 a month late, but it is with a bang! This episode of Workplaces That Work features an incredible chat with Mykel Dixon—award-winning speaker, author of Everyday Creative, master facilitator, pro jazz musician, and expert in creativity and workplace culture.

If you’ve ever felt stuck in the grind, unsure how to bring more meaning (and fun) into your work, this one’s for you. We dive into why we get caught up in the shoulds of work and life, how to quiet the noise, and why tuning into yourself is the key to success.

Key Takeaways

Mykel Dixon’s Website

If you have any thoughts you'd like to share about this episode, or an idea for a future episode topic, email me at: ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.

Find me on the socials:

⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠

Want to make work actually better? Let’s chat about how I can help your team thrive: Deanne Gagnon Dynamics.

If you liked this episode, click follow, leave a review, or send it to a friend—it helps more like-hearted people find the show.

Until next time, let’s keep making work a place where people actually want to be! 🎧✨

In this episode of the Workplaces That Work podcast, I’m joined by Prina Shah, culture expert and author of Making Work Meaningful: How to Create a Culture that Leaves a Legacy. We delve into the journey from simply working towards a successful career to creating a fulfilling, purpose-driven legacy at work. Prina shares her insights into understanding one's role in shaping workplace culture and the power of self-reflection in making an impact.

Key Takeaways

Resources Mentioned

Making Work Meaningful ⁠by Prina Shah

Dr. Wayne Dyer⁠

⁠S1: Episode 9: From the C-Suite to the Front Line: Bridging the Gap with Prina Shah⁠

To learn more about Prina and her work, follow her on ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ and ⁠⁠Instagram⁠.

I’d love to hear from you about any topics or questions you'd like to see covered in future episodes at⁠⁠ ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠⁠.

Find me on the socials:

⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠

Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠?⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Let’s chat⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.

Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!

Got a haunting in your workplace? 👻 In today’s episode of Workplaces That Work, we’re uncovering the Top Five Workplace Hauntings—the eerie challenges that linger in offices everywhere. But don’t worry; I’ll walk you through how to banish each one and bring your team back to life. 🧙‍♀️💼

Here’s what we’re diving into:

👻 The Phantom of Apathy – Ever feel like no one’s engaged? Let’s bring back energy and real purpose to our work!🌫️ The Shadow of Negativity – Time to lift that dark cloud and start building a culture of gratitude and positivity.🧟‍♀️ The Martyr’s Wail – Watch out for burnout! We’ll talk about healthy boundaries to keep things balanced.🧱 The Wall of Isolation – Break through with simple check-ins and real connections.🕸️ The Curse of Complacency – Keep things fresh with curiosity and a love for learning.

Tune in for tips on banishing these workplace ghosts and keeping your team culture strong, connected, and thriving. ✨ Let’s start lifting those workplace curses together! 🎧👻

Resources Mentioned

Start with Why by Simon Sinek

Workplaces that Work Episode - Mindset Matters: How Personal Wellness Shapes Your Work Environment with Krysta Olson

Think Again by Adam Grant

My Monthly Newsletter

Find me on the socials:

⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠

Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with ⁠⁠⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠⁠⁠?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Let’s chat⁠⁠.⁠⁠

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.

Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!

In this episode of the Workplaces That Work podcast, I’m joined by health and wellness coach Krysta Olson. We explore how personal life directly impacts the work environment and the importance of self-awareness in managing both. Krysta shares her journey, from personal training to wellness coaching, and how being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis shifted her focus to mindset and well-being. We dive into the connection between personal growth and professional success, emphasizing the value of mindfulness and balance in the workplace.

Key Takeaways  

Resources Mentioned:

Strengths Profile 

Emotional Culture Deck 

Jordan Peterson’s Personality Test 

To learn more about Krysta and get in touch with her:  

www.krystaolson.com

Instagram

Email Krysta at: [email protected]

I’d love to hear from you about any topics or questions you'd like to see covered in future episodes at⁠ ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.

Find me on the socials:

⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠

Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with ⁠⁠⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠⁠⁠?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Let’s chat⁠⁠.⁠⁠

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.

Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!

Reconciliation: How to Build Trust & Genuine Relationships with Sandi Boucher

This episode is released in honour of Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30th. I’m grateful to Sandi Boucher for sharing her wisdom and insights, and for being part of this important conversation.

In this episode of the "Workplaces That Work" podcast, Sandi Boucher and I come together to share our personal journeys in reconciliation and discuss the importance of building trust and creating safe spaces for open conversations about Indigenous engagement. From understanding cultural expectations to embracing humility, we dive deep into what it means to foster genuine relationships with Indigenous communities and how non-Indigenous individuals and organizations can make a meaningful impact.

Key Takeaways

To learn more about Truth and Reconciliation, connect with Sandi:

Facebook 

LinkedIn

YouTube:  

Instagram

https://mishkwe.ca/

I’d love to hear from you about any topics or questions you'd like to see covered in future episodes at⁠ ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.

Find me on the socials:

⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠

Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with ⁠⁠⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠⁠⁠?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Let’s chat⁠⁠.⁠⁠

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.

Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!

In this welcome back episode of the Workplaces That Work podcast, I’m talking about teamwork and collaboration - and the mind-bending concept of treating others how we’d like to be treated! I’m touching on the “That’s not my job" mentality and impact it has on teams, and the need for genuine human connection and empathy to create stronger, more unified teams.

Key Takeaways

Get ready to rethink your contribution to workplace culture and leave complacency behind! 🌟

Special AnnouncementOn September 30th, I’ll be speaking with powerhouse author and keynote speaker Sandi Boucher about Truth and Reconciliation. You won’t want to miss it!

I’d love to hear from you about any topics or questions you'd like to see covered in future episodes at⁠ ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.

Find me on the socials:

⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠

Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with ⁠⁠⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠⁠⁠?⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Let’s chat⁠⁠.⁠⁠

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.

Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!

In this episode, I’m chatting with Dr. Tonya Robertson from Focused Training Solutions, getting into all things onboarding and training. We're talking about how tailoring the new employee journey can make a huge difference, keeping people on your team with smart onboarding, and diving into Tonya's GROW framework designed to solve employer problems. 

Key Takeaways:

Effective Onboarding Sets a Positive Tone: A welcoming onboarding process is crucial for setting the right impression and integrating new hires into the team.

Customized Learning Paths Are Essential: Tailor onboarding experiences to meet individual employee needs, ensuring a more successful and engaging introduction to the company.

Measure Success from the Start: Define what success looks like early on to streamline the onboarding process and avoid the cost of fixing mistakes later.

Communication and Transparency Retain Talent: Open dialogues and a commitment to improvement can help keep employees engaged, even when initial onboarding processes falter.

The GROW Framework Empowers Employers: Starting with a clear goal and understanding the resources needed can lead to improved onboarding experiences and organizational clarity.

Small Businesses Can Overcome Onboarding Challenges: Utilizing free resources, personalizing training materials, and making every new hire feel valued can help small businesses navigate the limitations of budget and time.

Tune in for insightful discussions and practical advice on making your workplace more efficient and engaging for everyone.

Resources mentioned:

Focused Training Solutions

Follow Focused Training Solutions on LinkedIn

Follow Dr. Tonya Robertson on LinkedIn

I’d love to hear from you about any topics or questions you'd like to see covered in future episodes at ⁠[email protected]⁠⁠.

Find me on the socials:

⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠

⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠

Want to learn more about how you can improve your workplace culture with ⁠⁠Deanne Gagnon Dynamics⁠⁠?⁠⁠ Let’s chat.⁠⁠

If you enjoyed this episode, please follow and leave a rating or review. Your support means the world and your feedback is greatly appreciated.

Tune in next time for more insights and inspiration on how to create a thriving workplace!