Rethinking 'BPA Free': Nita Tandon on Conscious Consumerism and Sustainable Innovation Join me on YouMeWe Amplified podcast for a deep dive into conscious consumerism and sustainable innovation with my inspiring guest, Nita Tandon, CEO and founder of Dalcini Inc. Discover the truth behind 'BPA Free' labels, the impact of plastics on our health, and how we can demand better for ourselves and our communities. Learn about Nita's journey from a career in health sciences to creating award-winning stainless steel housewares. Get ready to rethink convenience, challenge authority, and make a conscious contribution to society. It's time to make waves for a healthier, sustainable future!  
02:22 The Catalyst for Change: From Plastics to Stainless Steel
06:10 The Problem with Plastics and the Benefits of Stainless Steel
08:36 Health Impacts of Chemical Exposure  
13:59 Ensuring Product Purity and Safety  
16:20 Advocacy and Raising Awareness  
17:31 Starting the Business and Educating Families  
19:40 Simplicity and Sustainability in Everyday Life  
21:29 Impact of Food Packaging on the Environment  
23:10 Advantages of Stainless Steel Containers  
27:47 Advocacy for Women in Business 29:14
The Power of Representation in Media  
30:12 Challenging Traditional Business Paradigms  
31:23 Embracing Conscious Leadership  
31:52 Journey to B Corp Certification  
34:37 Impact of Awards and Media Exposure  
39:19 Navigating Supply Chain Challenges
41:39 Creating Inclusive Work Environments
46:51 Rapid Fire Insights  
53:19 Final Words of Wisdom

Join me, Suzanne F. Stevens, on the YouMeWe Amplified Podcast as we sit down with Jennifer Buchanan, the founder of JB Music Therapy. In this episode, you will uncover the profound impact of music therapy on mental health, emotional well-being, and social connections. Learn about Jennifer's inspiring journey over 33 years, from the early challenges to achieving significant breakthroughs in hospitals, schools, and communities.

You'll discover practical insights on how music therapy aids in learning for children, supports mental health, and benefits the elderly, particularly those in long-term care. Jennifer also shares her innovative vision for the future, including the creation of a scholarship for music therapy students. Plus, get motivated by her advice on collaboration, entrepreneurial spirit, and making a conscious contribution to society.

Don't miss this powerful conversation that will empower and inspire you to make a social impact through the healing power of music.      

00:00 Introduction to YouMeWe Amplified Podcast
00:37 Meet Jennifer Buchanan of JB Music Therapy
02:01 The Beginnings of JB Music Therapy
05:04 Music Therapy for Children
09:05 Music Therapy and Mental Health
15:13 Music Therapy in Acute Medical Settings
18:52 Music Therapy for the Elderly
25:07 Inclusion Through Music Therapy
29:45 The Power of Music and Memory
32:01 The Impact of Music Therapy
33:55 Pioneering a Profession
35:29 Reflecting on Personal and Professional Growth
40:21 The Importance of Contribution
47:14 Rapid Fire Questions
53:44 Final Thoughts and Words of Wisdom

Welcome to the YouMeWe Amplified Podcast! I'm Suzanne F. Stevens, your host and the Wave•Maker at YouMeWe Social Impact Group. Join me in an inspiring conversation with Rebecca Scherbino, Executive Director of The Raw Carrot, a not-for-profit social enterprise that provides employment and dignity to individuals with disabilities and mental illnesses through the creation of gourmet soups. Rebecca shares how a personal relationship and experiences in the charity sector and Africa shaped her mission. We dive into the challenges and opportunities of creating a supportive work environment, the evolution of The Raw Carrot, and how balancing social outcomes with income generation can lead to sustainability. Tune in for compelling advice on operating like a business, the social franchise model, impact measurement, and leadership in social enterprise. Whether you're a seasoned leader or an aspiring entrepreneur, get ready to be inspired and empowered to make a significant social impact!  

00:00 Introduction to YouMeWe Amplified Podcast
00:35 Meet Rebecca Scherbino and The Raw Carrot
01:52 The Catalyst Behind The Raw Carrot
02:11 Amanda's Story and Early Challenges
04:33 From Side Hustle to Full-Time Passion
05:40 The Social Enterprise Model
09:52 Balancing Social Impact and Sustainability
12:48 Funding and Financial Strategies
16:46 Advice for Aspiring Social Entrepreneurs
19:57 The Social Franchise Advantage
21:07 Sharing Hard-Earned Knowledge
22:16 Economies of Scale
22:37 Challenges and Assumptions
25:18 Measuring Impact
27:00 Leadership and Support
28:44 Advantages of Hiring Unemployable
30:36 Sustaining Social Impact
33:21 Rapid Fire Questions
41:00 Final Words of Wisdom  

🌊 I'm Suzanne F. Stevens, your Wave-Maker at the YouMeWe Social Impact Group, empowering a WE Culture by cultivating conscious leadership.   I amplify the voices and impact of sheSocial•IMPACT Leaders through coaching, training, speaking, events, and on the YouMeWe Amplified Podcast. Elevate your leadership, amplify your authentic voice, and accelerate your sustainable social impact with YouMeWe.  

Ready to ride your next leadership wave? 💬 DM me 'YouMeWe' for your free conscious leadership assessment, and let’s unlock your full potential together.

Empowering Foster Youth: The Vision of Elev8 Villages In this episode of YouMeWe Amplified Podcast, Suzanne F. Stevens interviews Melissa Kay, the founder of Elev8 Villages. Melissa shares her journey from mentoring at-risk youth to creating sustainable tiny home villages for emancipated foster youth. Delve into the systemic challenges faced by foster children and explore the innovative solutions Elev8 Villages offers, including providing safe housing, wraparound services, and empowering job opportunities. Discover how Melissa's unwavering dedication and pragmatic approach aim to transform lives and reshape communities, ensuring that every youth has a voice and a choice.  

00:00 Introduction to YouMeWe Amplified Podcast
00:50 Meet Melissa Kay: Founder of Elev8 Villages
01:02 The Foster Care Crisis in the U.S.
01:45 Melissa's Journey into Foster Care Advocacy
03:37 Challenges Faced by Foster Youth
10:12 Elev8 Villages: A Solution for Emancipated Foster Youth
11:10 Building a Supportive Community
13:27 The Tiny Home Movement and Its Impact
17:34 Future Plans and Expansion
18:16 Funding and Resources for Elev8 Villages
27:20 A Vision of Clarity 29:08 Building Tiny Homes 30:02 Funding the Dream
30:38 Coaching and Contributions 32:33 Sustainable Business Models
34:39 Community and Dignity 36:44 Avoiding Pitfalls 45:20 Rapid Fire Questions
52:49 Final Words of Wisdom

Equal Visibility for Women: A Conversation with Bobbie Carlton  

In this enlightening episode of YouMeWe Amplified Podcast, I sit down with Bobbie Carlton, the inspiring founder of Innovation Women, a platform that provides equal visibility opportunities for women speakers. We dive deep into the systemic challenges women face in securing speaking engagements and emphasize the importance of public speaking for career advancement.   Bobbie, also the founder of Carleton PR and Marketing and Lioness Magazine, shares her insights on building a supportive community for women speakers and the necessity of sustainable business models to promote gender equity on stage. This episode is a powerful call to action for women entrepreneurs and leaders to assert their presence and expertise across all industries. Enjoy the conversation and get ready to be inspired!  

To read/listen/watch and learn more about Bobbie Carlton visit: https://podcast.youmewe.ca/bobbie-carlton-innovation-women-speaker/  
 
00:00 Introduction to YouMeWe Amplified Podcast
02:33 Meet Bobbie Carlton: Founder of Innovation Women
03:41 The Catalyst Behind Innovation Women
05:34 Systemic Challenges for Women Speakers
07:55 Types of Speakers and Their Roles
14:27 Building a Supportive Community for Women Speakers
25:43 The Disconnect in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
29:50 The Power of Visibility in Public Speaking
31:24 Breaking Stereotypes in Speaking Engagements
34:52 Categories of Speakers and Compensation Models
38:36 Measuring the Impact of Innovation Women
40:54 The Structure and Benefits of Carleton PR Marketing
46:11 Sustainability and Future Vision for Innovation Women
50:43 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts

Breaking Barriers: Emily Purry on Disability Inclusion and Accessibility.
A YouMeWe Amplified Podcast Original hosted by Suzanne F. Stevens, CSP
 
Visit site: https://podcast.youmewe.ca/emily-purry-purry-consulting/ 
 
Subscribe to the YouMeWe Amplified Podcast and receive notifications in your inbox. https://podcast.youmewe.ca/
 

In this episode of the You Me We Amplified podcast, host Suzanne F. Stevens introduces Emily Purry, the force behind Purry Consulting. Emily, legally blind and an advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA), shares her journey and insights on integrating disability practices into businesses. The discussion covers various aspects of DEIA, including digital accessibility, disability strategies, and the importance of inclusive environments. Emily also highlights the profound benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities and the significant gap in disability awareness within organizations. Additionally, the episode touches on the challenges and progress in disability advocacy, emphasizing the need for continuous education and systemic changes to foster true inclusion.
 
00:00 Introduction to the YouMeWe Amplified Podcast
03:03 Emily's Personal and Professional Background
03:59 Challenges and Triumphs in the Workplace
08:26 Emily's Athletic Pursuits and Overcoming Obstacles
10:24 Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA)
29:02 The Importance of Inclusive Practices in Organizations
40:22 The Power of Kindness and Curiosity
42:00 Impact of the Pandemic on Disability Employment
44:34 Loyalty and Work Ethics of Employees with Disabilities
47:18 Challenges and Innovations in Accessibility
53:22 Understanding Autism and Social Expectations
59:06 The Journey of Starting a Nonprofit
01:07:27 Lightning Round: Quick Insights and Advice
01:14:35 Final Thoughts and Words of Wisdom --------
 
🌊 Hey, I’m Suzanne, the YouMeWe Wave-Maker!
🍻 Pint-raiser and staunch advocate for women's empowerment.

🔥 I'm all about empowering a 'WE' culture through igniting conscious leadership, empowering influential communications, and accelerating sustainable social solutions.
📢 What I love most? Amplifying the voices, businesses, and social impacts of IMPACT Leaders through our YouMeWe Amplified Podcast and Community.

🌟 Looking to elevate and expand your impact?
🛎️ Hit that follow button!
🏷️ And keep tabs on #youmeweevolution for your dose of inspiration.

💬 Are you a fellow IMPACTpreneur or Conscious Leader? DM me and say hi. Let’s make waves together! 🤗

Breaking Barriers: Emily Purry on Disability Inclusion and Accessibility.
A YouMeWe Amplified Podcast Original hosted by Suzanne F. Stevens, CSP
 
Visit site: https://podcast.youmewe.ca/emily-purry-purry-consulting/ 
 
Subscribe to the YouMeWe Amplified Podcast and receive notifications in your inbox. https://podcast.youmewe.ca/
 

In this episode of the You Me We Amplified podcast, host Suzanne F. Stevens introduces Emily Purry, the force behind Purry Consulting. Emily, legally blind and an advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA), shares her journey and insights on integrating disability practices into businesses. The discussion covers various aspects of DEIA, including digital accessibility, disability strategies, and the importance of inclusive environments. Emily also highlights the profound benefits of hiring individuals with disabilities and the significant gap in disability awareness within organizations. Additionally, the episode touches on the challenges and progress in disability advocacy, emphasizing the need for continuous education and systemic changes to foster true inclusion.
 
00:00 Introduction to the YouMeWe Amplified Podcast
03:03 Emily's Personal and Professional Background
03:59 Challenges and Triumphs in the Workplace
08:26 Emily's Athletic Pursuits and Overcoming Obstacles
10:24 Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA)
29:02 The Importance of Inclusive Practices in Organizations
40:22 The Power of Kindness and Curiosity
42:00 Impact of the Pandemic on Disability Employment
44:34 Loyalty and Work Ethics of Employees with Disabilities
47:18 Challenges and Innovations in Accessibility
53:22 Understanding Autism and Social Expectations
59:06 The Journey of Starting a Nonprofit
01:07:27 Lightning Round: Quick Insights and Advice
01:14:35 Final Thoughts and Words of Wisdom --------
 
🌊 Hey, I’m Suzanne, the YouMeWe Wave-Maker!
🍻 Pint-raiser and staunch advocate for women's empowerment.

🔥 I'm all about empowering a 'WE' culture through igniting conscious leadership, empowering influential communications, and accelerating sustainable social solutions.
📢 What I love most? Amplifying the voices, businesses, and social impacts of IMPACT Leaders through our YouMeWe Amplified Podcast and Community.

🌟 Looking to elevate and expand your impact?
🛎️ Hit that follow button!
🏷️ And keep tabs on #youmeweevolution for your dose of inspiration.

💬 Are you a fellow IMPACTpreneur or Conscious Leader? DM me and say hi. Let’s make waves together! 🤗

In this episode of YouMeWe Amplified Podcast, host Suzanne F. Stevens interviews Jacey Shnarr, the founder of Butterfly Ethical Gifting. They discuss the inception of the business during the pandemic, its mission to elevate workplace engagement through ethical gifts, and its focus on supporting small, diverse, and eco-friendly businesses. Jacey shares her journey from working in the corporate world to becoming a full-time entrepreneur and the social impact of her business, including donating 2% of revenue to charities and working towards the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The podcast explores the challenges and rewards of running a socially responsible business, with advice for entrepreneurs on making a social impact, the importance of ethical sourcing, and the role of technology in modern gifting. The conversation also delves into Jacey's personal involvement with mentorship programs and how Butterfly Ethical Gifting advocates for environmental and social responsibilities through its operations.  
00:00 Introduction to YouMeWe Amplified Podcast
00:27 The Birth of Butterfly Ethical Gifting
04:03 Journey from Corporate to Entrepreneurship
06:44 The Essence and Impact of Ethical Gifting
08:24 Empowering Small Businesses and Ethical Practices
11:38 Leveraging Technology for Ethical Gifting
14:39 The Ripple Effect of Social Contributions
21:20 Engaging with Small Businesses for a Greater Impact
31:01 Sustaining Social Impact and Future Initiatives
40:54 Final Thoughts and Advice on Social Contribution

Empowering African Women by Hiring Virtual Assistance: The Dada Dunia Journey  


This episode of the YouMeWe Amplified Podcast features an interview with Jayne Akinyi, the founder and CEO of Dada Dunia, a company that connects virtual assistants in Africa with socially responsible businesses in Canada.  

Born from Jayne's personal struggles as an immigrant in Canada and her desire to help African women gain access to better opportunities, Dada Dunia not only provides virtual assistance services but also focuses on the personal and professional development of its employees, offering training, mentoring, and workshops focused on emotional intelligence and confidence building.  

The podcast explores Jayne's journey from Kenya to Canada, her motivations for starting Dada Dunia, the challenges of building a business that bridges two very different worlds, and the impact Dada Dunia is having on both the virtual assistants it employs and the businesses it serves.  

00:00 Introduction to Jayne Akinyi and Dada Dunia
02:14 The Essence of Dada Dunia: Connecting Africa and Canada
04:01 Jayne's Journey: From Kenya to Canada and Beyond
06:07 The Vision and Impact of Dada Dunia
09:56 Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Diversity
12:07 Empowering African Women Through Virtual Assistance
19:37 Navigating Time Zones and Client Expectations
24:51 Education and Empowerment: Beyond Degrees
30:45 Empowering Women Beyond Traditional Roles
31:40 The Vision and Impact of Dada Dunia
31:46 Feminism and Voting Rights: A Global Perspective
31:46 Dada Dunia's Pricing Model and Ethical Practices
32:45 Creating a Thriving Wage and Support System
35:21 Building a Community and Sisterhood at Dada Dunia
37:25 The Journey and Growth of Dada Dunia
37:59 Fostering Stability and Growth for Virtual Assistants
40:28 Partnering for Social Impact with Canadian Companies
42:25 The Story of Finding a Business Partner
45:22 Transformative Stories of Dada Dunia Assistants
48:44 Rapid Fire Questions: Insights and Advice
57:22 Final Thoughts on Making a Conscious Contribution

Tackling Human Trafficking with Sandy Biback on YouMeWe Amplified Podcast.
 
This episode of the YouMeWe Amplified Podcast features Suzanne F. Stevens hosting Sandy Biback, Founder of Meeting Professionals Against Human Trafficking (MPAHT). Sandy shares her journey from a retired meeting planner to an advocate against human trafficking, prompted by her travels in Vietnam and Cambodia. The podcast delves into various forms of modern slavery, including sex trafficking and indentured labor, stressing that human trafficking is not just an international issue but occurs locally, even in Canada.

Sandy discusses the vulnerabilities that traffickers exploit, from social media to street kids, emphasizing the need for awareness, education, and better protection measures at home and in the hotel industry. The conversation also explores the efforts of MPAHT to educate and mobilize the hospitality and meeting planning industry against human trafficking, highlighting collaborative efforts with Ottawa Tourism and other organizations to make a greater impact. Sandy's call to action involves raising awareness, being vigilant, and advocating against human trafficking in one's community.  

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and the Fight Against Human Trafficking
01:41 Meet Sandy Biback: A Crusader Against Human Trafficking
03:33 The Catalyst for Change: Sandy's Journey to Combat Human Trafficking
06:57 Understanding the Complex World of Modern Slavery
09:00 The Harsh Realities of Sex Trafficking and Its Victims
18:53 The Role of Meeting Professionals Against Human Trafficking (MPAHT)
26:12 Expanding the Fight: Education, Awareness, and Supply Chain Ethics
31:52 Measuring Social Impact: Personal Stories and Strategies
32:37 Recognizing and Reporting Suspicious Activities
38:24 Expanding Awareness: Strategies and Challenges
45:57 Building a Volunteer Network: Engagement and Sustainability
50:47 Rapid Fire Round: Insights and Inspirations
55:24 Closing Thoughts: Making Your Contribution Count