Marion Thénault - Fly Like an Eagle
Chatter that Matters
For my International Women’s Day episode, I chose Marion Thénault—a Canadian who flies like an eagle on the global stage. After realizing that gymnastics wouldn’t take her to the Olympics, Marion felt lost. On a promise to her Mom, she went to RBC Training Ground, where her trampoline skills caught the attention of a scout. She was asked if she had ever tried those flips on skis. As it turned out, she had only been on skis a handful of times. Marion leaped into Freestyle Aerial Skiing, and in short order became a World Cup champion and Olympic Medallist. Her biggest...
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Mike Power - I Felt Less Than
Chatter that Matters
We all judge books by their covers—but what happens when the cover tells one story, and the pages inside reveal another? This week on Chatter That Matters, I sit down with Mike Power, a testament to resilience. Mike appeared to have it all together: a top strategist, a two-time Boston Marathon runner, and a sharp conversationalist with wicked humour. But beneath that polished exterior was a battle with addiction, a journey to rock bottom, and a burning desire for reinvention. Mike shares his deeply personal story of losing control to alcohol and drugs, facing a devastating cancer...
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Matthew Galati - A Split Second
Chatter that Matters
A split second is all it took to change Dr. Matthew Galati’s life forever. A promising second-year medical student with a passion for soccer, music, and a strong social network, Matthew had everything going for him—until a freak encounter with black ice led to a horrific car accident and a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Rushed to the hospital and placed on life support, he spent three days in a coma, emerging into a world where his ability to think, speak, and move had been shattered.]Doctors warned his family that recovery was unlikely and that returning to medical school appeared...
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Melissa Osorio - Hidden Memories
Chatter that Matters
Many of us carry dark memories—moments so painful and profound that we tuck them away in the deepest corners of our minds. We convince ourselves they’re forgotten, but are they? What if you possessed the key to unlock them? Would you shine a light to illuminate your past, hoping that by doing so, you might finally understand who you are, why your life unfolded the way it did, and what you can change? Or would you keep them hidden in the shadows? This week, I’m pleased to welcome Melissa Osorio, author of Hidden Memories, to Chatter that Matters. Hidden Memories is a powerful story about...
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George M. Johnson - Unapologetically Me
Chatter that Matters
Imagine stepping into a world where your very existence is questioned—where just being yourself is a battle. Now imagine finding the strength, the voice, and the courage to not only survive but to stand up, speak out, and inspire a generation. This week on Chatter that Matters, my guest is George M. Johnson. We dive into the remarkable journey of an award-winning author, journalist, and activist who turned childhood trauma into a global conversation. All Boys Aren’t Blue isn’t just a book—it’s a lifeline, a revolution, and a powerful act of defiance against those who seek...
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Canada. It's Time for Extraordinary
Chatter that Matters
This is a special four-minute edition of Chatter That Matters. Canada's economy and sovereignty are under threat—not from weapons but from tariffs. This isn’t the moment for political grandstanding, showboating, posturing, or scoring points. It's time for extraordinary. RBC sponsors my podcast, and this weekend, I had the honour of reading a note from their President and CEO, David McKay, that was sent to all of their employees. RBC didn't ask me to do this, and they are not compensating me. I am reading his letter to you, hoping you will listen to his words, and intent. This is the kind...
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Rob Cribb - Truth Seeker
Chatter that Matters
In this week's Chatter that Matters titled "Truth Seeker," we delve into the vital and fascinating realm of investigative journalism through the perspective of Robert Cribb. Rob has received both national and international reporting awards for his investigations into offshore tax evasion, child exploitation, human trafficking, dangerous doctors, environmental hazards, and public safety. He was part of the international reporting team that produced the Pulitzer Prize-winning Panama Papers investigation in 2017. Can democracy survive without reporters like Rob, who are...
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Canada - Reclaim the Canadian Dream
Chatter that Matters
Canada, it’s time to reclaim the Canadian Dream. In this special episode of Chatter That Matters, I bring together three of Canada's brightest: , , and . Recorded live at 's 40th anniversary, weeks before 's resignation, Donald Trump's inauguration, and upcoming free trade negotiations, this nonpartisan conversation dives deep into the urgent need for Canada to go after a prosperity agenda that makes us economically strong, and socially conscious. I kick off the episode by reminiscing about Canada's Centennial year and our country's prowess, then contrasting it with today's...
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Harrison Haynes - Breaking the Silence
Chatter that Matters
"It’s so easy to become vulnerable online. Your face and name aren’t involved; you can hide behind a user name, an avatar." I begin this powerful and profoundly moving episode of Chatter That Matters by sharing a personal story of narrowly escaping a predator during my youth, setting the stage for a meaningful conversation about online safety. I then invite my guest, Harrison Haynes, a brave young advocate who recounts his harrowing experience of being manipulated by an online predator as a teenager. He reveals the emotional toll, the subtle manipulative tactics used, and how...
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Jill Nykoliation - Leave Room for Magic
Chatter that Matters
This episode will inspire, enlighten and educate. I sit down with Jill Nykoliation, a visionary leader in marketing and branding. Jill shares her journey from learning about branding at the family dinner table to becoming a trailblazer. She discusses her time at Queen's University, her rapid ascent at Kraft, and her bold decision to venture into advertising. Jill's 'Tall Grass' philosophy, which she developed through her experiences, encourages embracing the unknown and pushing boundaries. It's about not being afraid to stand out, even if it means being the tallest in the field. She...
info_outlineI kick off the first Chatter That Matters episode of the new year by sharing my belief in the cosmic choreography of life—how meeting the right people at the right time is shaped by a blend of timing, fate, and intention. This belief perfectly sets the stage for my guest, Jennifer Laidlaw, whose presence and impact are extraordinary.
From her roots on a farm to becoming a champion with horses, Jennifer’s story could fill volumes. Yet, what truly sets her apart is her role as a catalyst for change—a gift that radiates beyond individuals to uplift entire communities and causes.
As we step into 2025, Jennifer brings invaluable wisdom to this conversation. She speaks about the transformative power of rest, curiosity, and maintaining a resilient mind in achieving success and overcoming life’s challenges. Jennifer also opens up about her health struggles, sharing profound lessons on the importance of truly listening—to ourselves and others.
Thank you for tuning in, subscribing, and sharing Chatter That Matters. To RBC, I send the biggest hugs for making this podcast and our focus on positivity and possibility not just a vision but a reality.
Happy New Year, everyone!
Key Takeaways:
- Cosmic Choreography: Life's timing, fate, and intention are crucial in meeting the right people and opportunities.
- Clear Intentions: Sincere and clear intentions can attract positive people and opportunities.
- Jennifer Laidlaw's Journey: From farm life to horse champion and transformative figure, Jennifer's story is about growth and impact.
- Importance of Rest and Curiosity: Rest and curiosity are essential for achieving success and overcoming resistance.
- Powerful State of Mind: A strong mindset is crucial for personal and professional growth.
- Listening to Oneself and Others: Personal health challenges can teach valuable lessons about self-awareness and empathy.
- Supporting Innovative Thinkers: It's essential to support those who think outside the box.
- Pursuing Passions: Focusing on what excites and inspires us can lead to significant changes.