I Am Unbreakable® Magazine

Hey Rockstars!

As I reflect on this incredible journey over the past year, my heart is filled with gratitude, love and excitement. This magazine has ignited a powerful movement that serves as a pathway for women to step boldly into their purpose and pursue their dreams passionately with unshakeable Rockstar Confidence™.

YES YOU CAN™ and GIRLS CAN DO ANYTHING™ have resonated with countless women committed to uplifting and powering up their frontrow sisters globally.

Over the past year, I have shared the inspiring stories of remarkable women—leaders, disruptors, and innovators—who have faced obstacles and emerged stronger. Their journeys remind us that while struggle is a part of our story, it does not define us. It’s essential to recognize that stumbling is part of the process; what matters is our ability to rise, fuelled by the dreams we hold dear.

As we look ahead, our mission remains clear: to elevate women's voices, uncover unique narratives, and create a ripple effect of positive change. We are here to amplify the message that every woman has the right to be authentic, to chase her dreams, and to never give up.

Together, we can continue to forge a path toward a more inclusive and equitable world.

Join me in celebrating this incredible journey and the vibrant I Am Unbreakable® community we’ve built. Let’s honour our victories, learn from our setbacks, and power up one another to become the fearless leaders we are destined to be.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to many more years of inspiring change, impact and unbreakable strength!

Remember, my three favourite words…YES YOU CAN! Adrianne xo

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NOTE FROM THE FOUNDER 2

TABLE OF

Contents 02 Founders Message 05 Rockstar Trailblazers 08 Elevating Change Makers Celebrating visionaries: Spotlight on the trailblazers. Unforgettable stories of changemakers who are reshaping industries, fostering innovation, and driving positive change in our society and beyond.

34 Fearless Entrepreneurs

Unleashing the power: Meet the fearless entrepreneurs and discover the inspiring stories of individuals who embrace challenges, defy the odds, and redifine resilience in the world of entrepreneurship.

52 Things We Love

Explore the things we love - our contributors' favourite products.

A curated collection of must-have items handpicked by our talented contributors, showcasing a diverse range of products they adore and recommend.

54 Self-Care: Mind & Body

Embracing balance: Self-care stories and expert-recommended practices aimed at nurturing wellbeing, fostering mindfulness, and promoting self-care for both the mind and body, so you can live your best life.

RONDA CARNEGIE

BETTY HINES

Resilience isn’t about pushing through at all costs. It’s about recognizing that our feelings— no matter how raw—don’t define us.

Women often battle the guilt of self-care and self-help. We can’t pour from an empty cup! You need to ensure your cup is full if not somewhat full.

RENEE LINDO

MIKE FATA

What would be possible if you showed up for yourself? If you understood how to dress your changing body in a way that made you feel confident?

Passion is the driving force behind every entrepreneur. It's the fire in your belly that propels you forward, even when the going gets tough.

Rockstar Trailblazers

The Power Of Rockstar Collaboration

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cannot believe it has been a year since I Am Unbreakable® came to life. Over this period, I have met many incredible Rockstar people dedicated to the transformative movement for women, forging connections and fostering collaboration.

The purpose is to drive positive change for all women and create an everlasting positive impact on society.

Leading a powerful movement with a persistent call to action of - YES YOU CAN™, and GIRLS CAN DO ANYTHING™, that encourages women to believe in themselves and use their super-power. We advocate for the unwavering pursuit of dreams, equity, inclusion, passion and purpose. I love sharing the journeys of women who have tapped into their superpowers and persevered with grit and resilience in the face of obstacles.

“The struggle is part of the story.

But it’s not the whole story. It is where Rockstar Confidence™ begins."

“It’s time to speak out so that today and tomorrow, female leaders know it is okay to fail, struggle, and face rejection while following their dreams. It is very okay to persevere, work hard and never give up on you!”

There is so much to be learned from each person’s journey, and I am so thankful for every collaboration and contribution. I want to recognize a few catalysts of change with whom I have had the incredible honour of chatting with over the last year.

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Ronda Carnegie is the remarkable co-founder of Project Dandelion.

Project Dandelion is a movement of women building a future where everyone is safe from a changing climate. Dandelions are women who are part of the movement. Dandelions embody the qualities of dandelions: they are resilient, relentless and find any opening on any path.

Project Dandelion believes every issue is a climate issue that disproportionately impacts women and girls. Women are active change-makers and climate leaders. Wow! What an incredible global vision and mission!

Jenn Harper's Cheekbone Beauty is a powerful embodiment of Indigenous beauty, cultural pride, and sustainable practices, and is rooted in her Ojibwe heritage.

Her brand represents her journey of growth, resilience, and the transformative power of turning adversity into strength. Through Cheekbone Beauty, Harper celebrates Indigenous beauty and the profound connection between culture, nature, and personal empowerment.

Shelley Zalis, is a thought leader, entrepreneur and gender equity advocate. Shelley is the founder and CEO of The Female Quotient, a company that advocates for gender equality in the workplace, and #SeeHer, a global movement to eliminate gender bias in media and advertising.

Super Connector, Betty Hines, shares her journey from C-suite executive to successful impact market by providing women with tools and connection for

alternatives to “corporate life”.

She empowers women to scale their businesses, have lifestyle choices and support fulfillment in their journeys.

Raman Chohan, founder of The Metier and Forteh empowers people with choices. In her journey, she has pivoted from corporate life to amping her personal power as an entrepreneur. Her first business is in search and now, her new brainchild is about to be launched, a platform for fractional opportunities. This shifts the discussion from full time employment with one organization to that of greater power for the person (more time or several gigs with different scopes, creating wider breadth of knowledge) and for the organization, by having access to brilliant minds in a flexible capacity.

Dr. Cindy Gordon, thought leader, disruptor and founder and CEO of SalesChoice. Her vision of SalesChoice is to leverage artificial intelligence and cognitive sciences to end revenue uncertainty and grow with a human advantage. She has shone the path of this disruption over a decade ago!

These remarkable Rockstar women have created a road for others to travel and provided an example of creativity, resilience, opportunity, impact and hope for us all.

You are all Rockstars! Continue to shine bright because the light you share with others creates a pathway of hope for our front-row sisters!

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Crafting A Purpose Driven Life RONDA CARNEGIE

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’ve always been driven by curiosity. As a child, I constantly asked “Why?”—whether it was about my grandfather hanging plastic lemons on his trees (to help the real ones grow, he’d say!) or bigger, more complex questions about the world around me. That curiosity guided me through my career, from the dynamic world of fashion buying into the influential realm of magazine publishing with Harper’s Bazaar and and Condé Nast.

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One thing has remained constant throughout my journey: my belief in the power of ideas. At The New Yorker, where I honed my appreciation for deeply insightful narratives, I became even more captivated by the transformative power of storytelling—how it connects, inspires, and drives change.

the potential to spark change, educate, and unite people across the globe. My time at TED— from its early days as a single conference to its expansion into a global media brand—taught me one essential truth: when ideas are simplified and shared in ways that move people, they can shift entire paradigms.

The TED Years and Beyond With TEDTalks, I witnessed firsthand the incredible power of ideas. A simple, heartfelt talk has

After eight intense years at TED, I sought a new challenge. I wanted to channel my passion for leadership into addressing

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the world’s most urgent issues.

This led me to the Rockefeller Foundation’s Bellagio Program, where I dove deep into how leadership can tackle global challenges. It was there, listening and learning from extraordinary women leaders, that I saw the clear connection between the climate and nature crisis interconnected to gender, health, food and many justices. I realized that the climate and nature crisis isn’t just a policy issue—it’s a human issue, and one of the most urgent challenges of our time.

Project Dandelion: A Badge for Change Takes Root This is where the story of Project Dandelion begins. The dandelion is a powerful symbol of women’s leadership—spreading seeds far and wide, often in places you least expect, sprouting resilience and boldness even in the cracks of sidewalks. That’s the essence of Project Dandelion: a women-led climate movement where women are not just seen as those most impacted by climate change, but as the leaders and changemakers driving the solutions we need.

With a global cohort of women, we are building momentum for a climate-safe world. Project Dandelion is about collective action. We are on the cusp of an incredible transformation but we are not moving fast enough.

We are elevating women’s voices and placing hope and action at the center, we are changing the conversation and creating space for new possibilities and growth.

Storytelling is one of our most powerful tools for this. When we share stories of resilience, hope, and possibility, we invite others to see themselves as part of the solution. We create a narrative that says, “You are not powerless.

You can make a difference.”

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Lessons Learned Throughout my career, I’ve learned valuable lessons. I’ve discovered that curiosity is a superpower. I’ve learned the importance of nurturing your network—surrounding yourself with people who not only support your vision but challenge you to think bigger. Most importantly, I’ve learned to stay true to my purpose, even when it meant navigating uncomfortable changes.

To me, resilience isn’t about pushing through at all costs.

It’s about recognizing that our feelings—no matter how raw—don’t define us. It’s about understanding that we have the power to shape the world we want to live in and embracing a type of power grounded in collaboration, empathy, and reciprocity. Let’s embrace hope, take action, and build a brighter future for generations to come.

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Rediscovery Through Pickleball DR. JEN WELTER

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n today's world, finding personal happiness and maintaining boundaries can feel impossible, particularly for women juggling multiple roles. For me, the journey to rediscovering myself and reclaiming my joy started unexpectedly on a pickleball court.

During a heart-to-heart with a friend, I realized how much my life had changed. The vibrant energy I exuded wasn't from a new beauty routine, but from prioritizing myself. Years of constantly putting others first led me to burnout, a feeling I know many women experience.

sports. But this is just one part of my journey. I'm excited for the unknown adventures ahead. My legacy will be a combination of tenacity, personal evolution, and empowering women in all facets of life.

"I Am Unbreakable" is more than a mantra; it's a belief in our resilience. It's about bouncing back from life's challenges, knowing we may bend but won't

break. Being open about my struggles doesn't diminish my strength. True empowerment comes from recognizing and sharing our humanity, especially during difficult times.

My story is a reminder to find joy amidst life's chaos. Embrace the unexpected, prioritize yourself, and live a more vibrant, purposeful life.

Transitioning from a professional athlete to a coach was challenging. The thrill of personal accomplishment was replaced with the quieter satisfaction of helping others succeed. While rewarding, something was missing. That void was filled when my parents gifted me pickleball lessons. This sport opened a new chapter in my life, one focused on connection and pure enjoyment.

Pickleball taught me the power of healthy boundaries. Setting aside dedicated time for play made me more present, focused, and happier. These lessons apply beyond the court, to our professional and personal lives. Learning to say "no" and scheduling time for ourselves leads to increased effectiveness and well-being. Remember, investing in your passions makes you a happier, smarter you.

Women often unconsciously set themselves up for exhaustion by being perpetually available.

I've learned that scattering our availability can diminish our impact. Instead, I strive for full presence, knowing some things can wait. Reflecting on my legacy, I'm immensely proud of the progress made for women in

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A Super Connector's Journey: From Corporate Executive To Empowering Others BETTY HINES

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uccessful business connectors are often called super connectors. These are the few individuals who have the gift of bringing people together (connection) in a way that spurs on professional growth and powerful collaborations. I am driven by the belief that women deserve far more opportunities than normally available, and that must change.

As such, I morphed my journey from a corporate path to one of entrepreneurship and meaningful impact.

My career path has taken me on an interesting journey, from that of a successful C-suite executive in the corporate world to an entrepreneur, consultant, and now a champion for women in business.

I evolved my journey to provide women tools and connections for alternatives to “corporate life”.

I empower women to scale their businesses, have lifestyle choices and support fulfillment in their journeys. My time in corporate America saw me rise to the C-suite at the expense of my personal

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freedom and my family.

While I spent time leading a business within a large organization, with a keen eye on the P&L (profit and loss statement), spending countless hours to fuel my success and the demands of the organization, like many wildly successful executives, the weight of long hours and constant relocation started to gnaw at me. I came to the realization that if I could invest the effort and energy I spent on the companies I worked for, and used the knowledge and experience I had, I had the makings of an enterprise I could call my own. With this seed planted in my mind, my beloved and I continued to work feverishly on the corporate track and when available, we worked on our future business plan.

Fast forward a few years, my husband and I started a fresh new path. With my husband as CEO, and four other business partners, we plunged into entrepreneurship, securing a staggering $10 million in capital in 1999 to launch our business. Like many stories of

success, there were no straight paths to the top. We faced our business being spun off after external factors like 9/11 and the Enron scandal, which rippled through their industry. In due course, I found myself leading and creating a multimillion-dollar women's organization in Maryland.

I created a platform to connect and elevate women professionals.

My story highlights that the road to entrepreneurship can be a rocky and tumultuous route filled with highs and lows, but with self belief it makes the journey better. My keys to success? The necessity of connecting and collaborating with others, learning to communicate effectively, and having the courage to take leaps of faith. My success is bolstered by my five pillars of success: Collaborate, Communicate, Connect, Cultivate, and Courage.

Without a doubt, one of the most impactful lessons I learned is the need for self-care. As my corporate life required repeated relocations,

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this tested my personal limits, and the well-being of me and my family had to be prioritized. This tipping point is where many women find themselves reassessing their trajectories, forging paths grounded in balance between professional aspirations and personal happiness.

Women often battle the guilt of self-care and self-help. We can’t pour from an empty cup! You need to ensure your cup is full if not somewhat full. With great consideration and discussion with my family, and as always my husband as my biggest cheerleader, I decided to dedicate my efforts and chose the path of entrepreneurship. While the entrepreneurship landscape is equally demanding, it comes with a promise of personal autonomy, choices and fulfillment.

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Today's ecosystem for professional women is rich with resources.

There are podcasts, supportive groups, and mentorship circles.

These resources were scarce during my earlier years. Now modern platforms provide women with insights and advice that can help them navigate their own entrepreneurial voyages.

With all these advancements, why do women continue to feel isolated and hesitant to network or connect? I recognize that it can be lonely at the top, and it doesn't have to be! If you master the art of connection and collaboration, you can overcome hurdles of seclusion.

The most transcendent piece of my journey is my need to focus on purpose. Knowing one's purpose frames a roadmap to success that is significant and impactful.

It's not only the financial wins, it’s the legacy created … the lasting impression left on the world by contributing something meaningful.

I am a natural nurturer, collaborator, and mentor. In these qualities lie my power of personal transformation. I shifted from a life of strict corporate confines to an entrepreneurial life filled with meaningful connection, success and the joy of elevating others. My journey illustrates resilience and self-belief to invest in myself. This serves as a reminder that with the right support and strength, you too can reach new heights and new successes.

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Demystifying AI: The Skills You Need To Thrive DR. CINDY GORDON

dynamics. Other extremists view AI as the eventual demise of humans.

Stanford’s recent AI Index research has already shown that AI is outperforming humans on almost every skill. Hence, there is a need for concern in putting in legislation more rapidly to protect citizens and ensure humans are safe and remain in control.

So why should everyone learn AI Fundamentals?

There are many strategic reasons, but here are three to think about:

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o one can escape the reality that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is fusing into everything we do as humans. From the simplicity of purchasing your Amazon order to watching a Netflix movie, the levers behind the scenes in the eCommerce engines are being supported by powerful AI algorithms to predict the next best book to purchase or movie for you to watch. It does not stop here, AI is analyzing your loan applications to determine “best profile fit” for a loan approval, evaluating your medical history to identify health risks, monitoring your home for security, or even dispensing food at the right time for your family pet.

The AI market is huge, and AI investments are staggering.

According to Statista, the AI global market grew beyond 184 billion USD in 2024, a considerable jump of nearly 50 billion USD compared to 2023. This tsunami-like growth is expected to continue with the market racing past 826 billion USD by 2030.

Every industry is advancing rapidly using AI to increase revenues or reduce operating costs. AI is viewed by some as the biggest evolution to fuel change and modernize work, home, and community

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AI is like a new nutrient you are now eating daily. You need to know if it’s good for you to eat or not. Getting involved in this conversation is important to ensure your views are included, otherwise your diet will be controlled by others.

AI has many flavors given the diverse methods that can solve different use cases. If you don’t know what ingredients are going into the different AI models, you are putting your organizations at risk.

Today, less than 5% of AI models are sustained and there is tremendous risk in failing with AI due to its high operating costs. To get AI right, you must pick the right AI use case and have the right skilled experts to manage your AI journey. #AIDirectionMatters AI is going to shape all jobs, no matter the type. AI will also eliminate many routine jobs, estimated at 30-50%. 20-30% of professional roles will also be augmented with AI. The bottom line is, if you don’t upskill your knowledge in AI, your future value will be reduced. The worst case, your skills will no longer be needed compared to someone who has invested the time to learn what AI can or can not do.

How can I get started?

Every university or college has AI introductory courses available.

Check out your local educational institutions for what is available. AI certifications are available from the

United States AI Institute where I teach executives on AI strategic transformation.

There are many books that explain the impact AI will have on everything. I recommend Ray Kurzweil’s newest book, “Singularity is Nearer - When we Merge with AI”. This book provides the clarity of how deep the AI change impact is.

Additionally, visit the SalesChoice AI Predictive Learning Center where we have many videos, podcasts, and white papers to help educate leaders. Also, my last book, the AI Dilemma is an excellent foundational book as it covers many industrial impacts of AI. There is also a series on AI Fundamentals that I wrote and it is available on my Forbes AI Thought leadership channel.

To guide your career and your organizations forward, look at AI akin to what we had to learn to use our cell phones. It has been 50 years since the first cell phone was invented. Now everyone uses a cell phone, and we don’t question too much of its value, although cell phone addiction is a growing concern, especially with parents.

With AI, like many other transformative technologies, we need to appreciate there will always be the good, the bad and the ugly.

Hopefully, as we incorporate AI, we build a world where there is more good than bad. To ensure this happens, we each have a role to play in shaping our new world.

Its starts with taking a leadership action to learn AI fundamentals, and ensure humanity is advancing trusted and ethical AI practices.

If you don’t invest to learn, your career potential will be compromised. Also, if you don’t learn, you won’t be able to guide your family into the new world where singularity is no longer a question of if but a question of when. Being prepared is always a wise strategy.

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Weathering The Storm The Power of Resilience SIOBHAN CALDERBANK

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n life, storms are inevitable.

We’ve all heard the saying, “No pain, no gain” and while it might be overused, there’s a reason it has stood the test of time. Anything that is worth achieving will come with some sort of sacrifice — whether it’s time, money, or resources. The key is not to avoid the storm, but to learn how to dance in the rain.

Let’s start with Reframe. When life throws curveballs, it’s easy to see them as obstacles.

What if you looked at them as opportunities instead? That failed project or job loss may be a lesson in disguise, preparing you for something even bigger and better. Reframing your mindset allows you to see the silver linings in each storm cloud.

Imagine birthing an idea. It’s a miracle, isn’t it? From a tiny seed of thought, something extraordinary emerges. Like any miracle, it doesn’t come without its labor pains. For those of you who are mothers, you can probably relate to the pain of giving birth. There are moments when you question yourself, your purpose, and whether you should just give up. Giving up is not an option and that’s when resilience comes in.

Next, Refocus. We live in a world filled with distractions. It is all too easy to lose sight of our goals. Remember the acronym FOCUS: Follow One Course Until Successful. When the storm hits, don’t get lost in the chaos.

Refocus your attention on your goals and keep moving forward, even if it’s just one step at a time.

Equally important, is not being too rigid and allowing yourself to change and adapt as needed.

Resilience is like a palm tree in a hurricane. It bends, but it doesn’t break. It’s focused and flexible, adapting to the winds and staying firmly rooted. The key to resilience lies in three simple actions: Reframe, Refocus, and Rise Up.

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Finally, let’s talk about what it means to Rise Up. During a storm, naysayers may try to put you down and say, “You’re not good enough! You don’t have what it takes! You can’t withstand the storm!” Why not whisper back …

“I am the storm!” This reminds

you that you are stronger than you think. Believe in yourself, know your strength and rise up.

You have the power to control your thoughts, actions, and therefore, your outcomes. You can manifest everything you’ve ever wanted. All you need is the courage to step forward into the storm and dare to chase your wildest dreams. Remember, the storm is not your home and doesn’t define you. Some storms may cause destruction, and other storms will transform your landscape and lead you to something greater.

The next time you find yourself in the eye of the storm, don’t just weather it—become it and dance in the rain. Reframe your challenges, Refocus your efforts, and Rise Up against adversity.

To embody resilience, believe that nothing can stop you, not because you’re merely stronger than the storm, but because you ARE the power that drives the storm forward. You are unbreakable, and your destiny awaits!

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Own Your Luck ROSE MARIE GAGE

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s luck something that happens to us, or is it something we create? To me, luck is not chance; it's a force we influence and shape. Like many things in life, there are tools or hacks that support your odds of success.

Here are a few you can use:

risks, step outside your comfort zone, and learn from your mistakes. By adopting this mindset, you open yourself up to new experiences and opportunities that can lead to unexpected breakthroughs and greater “lucky” breaks.

An Abundance Mindset Making your own luck starts with cultivating a mindset of abundance. You shift or reinforce your perspective to one of possibility or limitless options.

When we see opportunities or abundance, it opens the path to learning, doing, experiencing and course corrections. An abundance mindset reframes setbacks from failure to being a part of success’ journey or stepping stones. It also aids you in seeing rejection as redirection, knowing something better is coming your way.

Me? I am wired as an optimist.

I see the world with a glass half full or full mentality. Part is my nature, and the other part is giving myself permission to try, grow, succeed or fail. At General Electric (GE), we used the term, “fail fast and often”. While I don’t aspire to the “often” part, failure is part of life’s education and is key to building resilience.

Embodying an abundance mindset means you seek ways to improve yourself, expand your skills and try new things. You aren’t afraid to take calculated

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As a passionate learner, I enjoy growth by learning and doing.

Added knowledge or experiences are elements that enhance our ability to create and grow.

They allow us the opportunity to question and create current mindset conclusions, like explorers thinking the world was flat, then realizing it was round.

Build Strong Connections Knowledge and skills are essential. Couple them with the power of relationships and you are golden. Did you know that 85% of jobs are filled within our networks? Think of that opportunity! If you build a strong network of diverse individuals, you create opportunities you could never have achieved otherwise.

As I take stock of my eclectic and fun career, the last 25 years of opportunities came from people who I worked with, went to school with or were part of an association to which we were devoted. An insider or person with direct experience in working with you can alert you to an opening that only an insider may know. These people can speak to our personality, fit, and potentially open the door of opportunity. In the absence of these relationships, where would I be? … not very far.

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It's not only about career opportunities; it can be to innovate, collaborate, partner and grow. We never know where our relationships will take us. Be open to discussions and opportunities, the world is filled with them.

Given that time is at a premium, it's crucial to cultivate meaningful connections with mentors, sponsors, peers, collaborators, partners and mentees. Make yourself seen and heard. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, support a cause you are enthusiastic about and actively participate in online communities. Reach out to people you admire and ask for informational interviews or coffee chats for the purpose of learning and true connection.

The golden rule of connection and relationships is about being open with your time and expertise. Offer support to others when you can share knowledge or opportunities to those in need.

I’m known as a “connector” of people, ideas and opportunities.

I spend a lot of my time connecting, learning people’s needs and opportunities. When possible, I’ll connect others to an idea or a person who can somehow assist them or benefit from the connection. This ability to assist fosters a closer connection between me and the person needing the connection.

It also creates a tie to the other individual in the equation. The result is win, win, win!

Take Calculated Risks Luck often favours the bold.

Taking calculated risks is an essential part of making your own luck. This isn’t being reckless or impulsive. It’s about evaluating opportunities, weighing the potential rewards against the risks, and acting.

Staying in our comfort zones limits growth and potential.

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It’s important to take stock of where we can push boundaries, whether it's applying for a stretch assignment, starting a side hustle, speaking up in a meeting or setting necessary boundaries so we have more time for self-care and restoration. Taking calculated risks can lead to unexpected rewards and may create openings to new possibilities.

Be Prepared and Proactive Luck is often disguised as opportunity pairing up with preparation. Being ready to seize the moment when an opportunity presents itself is critical. This means honing your

skills, staying connected, and having focus.

"I believe luck is preparation meeting opportunity. If you hadn't been prepared when the opportunity came along, you wouldn't have been 'lucky.’” ~ Oprah Winfrey Focus is critical. It empowers you to spend time on your desires or strengths. Being proactive and taking ownership of your career or ambitions is important. Don't wait for someone to tap you for a promotion, a new project, or give you permission to try that side hustle. Actively seek out

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challenges and demonstrate your capabilities. By being prepared and proactive, you position yourself to take advantage of “lucky” breaks when they come.

Remember, no one will take as much care of your career or business as you would.

Making your own luck is about success, whether individual, partner, family, team, community or otherwise. It is about your success and contributing to the success of others. By giving back to others and mentoring the next generation, you create a ripple effect for generations to come.

Early in my career, a General Manager asked for my ideas on where we could enhance our brand or save money. We were both grabbing coffee, and this chance encounter was VERY rare.

I stepped into it and shared my ideas. We parted ways and bingo, a week later my boss told me I had a big project to oversee for the General Manager. This yielded huge savings to the company and changed our method of communicating our products and pricing. It placed me in a lane of leadership with game changing ways. Totally worth the quick conversation and all that came after it.

Be careful about what you wish for, it may come true! My coffee chat was one of many in my life.

Be open, share your thoughts and walk through that door of opportunity when it opens. Take the bet on yourself and go for it.

Cultivate Resilience The path to success is rarely a straight line. Setbacks, failures, and disappointments are inevitable. How you respond to challenges determines your ability to make your own luck.

Cultivating resilience is key to bouncing back from setbacks and persevering when adversity pushes back. When you encounter obstacles, learn from them. That said, resilience isn’t about being invincible; it's about being strong enough to get back up, learn from your experiences, and keep moving whether forward or in a different direction.

By developing resilience, you can turn setbacks into opportunities

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As women, we have a responsibility to lift others as we climb, if we are truly going to see equality at all levels. Regrettably, the current pace for global gender parity for Corporate Chairs and CEOs is expected to be 2073 and 2111. That’s almost 50 and 90 years from now - not acceptable!

We need to be the change we wish to see.

Share your knowledge and expertise, offer guidance and support, and create opportunities for others to thrive. By paying it forward while giving back, you contribute to a more inclusive and supportive workplace and create a network of allies who can help you make your own luck in the future.

and create your own luck, even in difficult times.

I acknowledge I have grown to be resilient. I have lost my parents from preventable diseases. I’ve divorced. I’ve been fired. I’ve stood up to bullies. I’ve walked away gracefully when I needed a change, or my worth wasn’t recognized. I’ve carried a full load for myself and my loved ones.

I was given crappy roles and did the best I could and found something better. With rejection, I allocate a set amount of time to grieve, then I pick myself up and start new. Resilience is within our control, and we can shape it for our benefit, to learn and to grow.

Pay It Forward While Giving Back

Making your own luck is not about relying on chance or hope.

It's building strong relationships, taking calculated risks, being prepared and proactive, cultivating resilience, and giving back to others. You can create your own opportunities and achieve your goals. Remember, luck is not something that happens to you; it's something you make.

We ALL have the power to break barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create a more equitable and inclusive world. By making our own luck, we pave the way for our own success and inspire and empower others to do the same.

Go out there, take charge of your destiny, and MAKE YOUR OWN LUCK! The world is waiting for your light to shine brightly for you and others along your journey.

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Connection Is A Powerful Force DR. DEBORAH ROSATI

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onnection is a powerful force. Over the course of my 35-year career as an entrepreneur and corporate director, I’ve discovered that authentically connecting with others can make a considerable impact. The key to growing your network? Connecting with others intentionally, with the long view in mind.

engagement, or something else, here are some factors to consider before reaching out to a contact for a meeting:

Once you have built those connections, you can employ this powerful force to meet your goals. To leverage your network effectively, I suggest starting with three ideas:

Be a connector. In his book “Tipping Point”, Malcolm Gladwell writes that there are three types of people: mavens, connectors, and salespeople. He defines connectors as those who know how to make change happen through people. They love meeting new people, learning new ideas, and helping others.

Communicate with gravitas.

Whenever you talk to someone, you are connecting. That’s why it’s essential to speak with gravitas. In her book “Gravitas: Communicate with Confidence, Influence and Authority”, Caroline Goyder suggests the formula: knowledge + purpose + passion (– anxiety) = gravitas.

Be clear and direct in your ask.

Be authentic in your approach and always ask how you can help them.

Be passionate and persuasive.

Be purposeful.

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To become a connector, be generous with your network.

Introduce people you meet with other leaders and influencers you know, and do it freely, without any expectations.

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Being a connector helps others in your network succeed and it will undoubtedly benefit you in the long run. Remember, reciprocity is key. Give more to others than you ask of them.

When you think about connection, taking the long view is vital. Don’t expect conversations to benefit you right away. Instead, remain generous, authentic, and open with the people you meet. If you are dedicated to connecting with and supporting others, the network you build will eventually help you get where you want to go.

Communicate with gravitas by staying grounded in yourself and what you know. Openly listen to those around you without planning what you’ll say next. If that sounds simple, it is. However, just like all things, it takes time and practice.

The next time you converse with someone, practice grounding yourself and speaking confidently.

You may be surprised by how this simple change enables you to connect with others more deeply.

Set your intention. Frame your approach to connection around your goals. If you’re not sure where to start, I suggest taking some time to consider what you’re looking for in the next chapter of life. From there, you can determine how your network can elevate you.

Whether you are searching for a board appointment, a new executive role, a speaking

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It Starts With Grit SHERRI STEVENS

W

hat do you think of when you hear the word "grit"?

Me? I think about bold women like Rosa Parks whose refusal to give up her seat on a bus helped spark a civil rights movement that shattered the chains of segregation; like Marie Curie who redefined her field and became the first woman to win a Nobel Prize; like Amelia Earhart who shattered aviation records and showed the world that the sky was never the limit.

Here’s the thing we don’t talk about enough: none of these women were born famous. They didn’t run massive corporations.

They were just like you and me, fuelled by big dreams, deep passion, bold ambition, and most importantly, immeasurable grit.

Like them, every one of us has an important legend to forge. It’s a legend not built not on the amount of money we earn, the number of people we influence, or the status of our titles … rather on the ways we

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courageously show up and touch the lives of those around us.

We can become bold legends within our own family, in our community of friends, in our work, or even on a global scale.

We all have the capacity to change the trajectory of someone’s life for the better. Think about the teacher who saw potential in a struggling student, or a friend who gave someone the strength to keep going just by listening. Even small acts of grit can achieve profound impact.

We all can provide a map for the challenges we’ve overcome. Grit isn't just about surviving the climbs up mountains big and small. It's also the courage to make the path forward easier to follow. When we share our struggles, we light the way for those who come after.

We all have the power to persist when things get tough. Legends aren’t forged on easy paths. They’re

created when we boldly march forward when all seems impossible.

Every obstacle becomes a milestone on a greater journey. By refusing to quit, we prove that our spirit can't be broken.

Being a legend comes down to grit: the way we face our fears, persevere through our struggles, and root ourselves in resilience when others challenge our convictions or judge our actions.

The harder the battle, the harder we fight, and with every victory, we rise stronger.

As Maya Angelou wisely said, “People will forget what you said.

People will forget what you did.

But people will never forget how you made them feel.” So, I ask you: how do you want to make people feel? What do you want to be known for? How do you want to write your legend? And what will your next bold step be?

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The Kamala Effect NANCY GRIFFIN

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ecently, I read the statement: “the longer you live, the more you become who you were always intended to be”!

This is me, for sure, as I now ponder the future and reflect on the past!

When I look back at my high school yearbook, I see that I wanted to be a sociologist … How did I know then what that was, and who was my influencer at that time?

cause of human behaviour and to recognize the patterns of human behaviour. It also seeks to predict the future behaviour of people.

Although sociologists usually do not make decisions on how society can be changed or people treated, sociologists provide valuable research data that can be used by authorities who do make such decisions.

What is a Tipping Point?

Sociology is one of several disciplines referred to as a social science. As the term implies, social sciences address the social world. The natural sciences on the other hand, are the intellectual and academic disciplines designed to explain and predict the events in the natural environment.

From the best-selling author, Malcolm Gladwell, the tipping point is that magic moment when an idea, trend, or social behaviour crosses a threshold, tips, and spreads like wildfire.

That time has finally arrived with The Kamala Effect! Hillary Clinton significantly cracked the glass ceiling and Kamala Harris is going through it! It is an hourglass moment in every way possible.

Sociology and a Tipping Point – now what?

As a scientific discipline, sociology seeks to explain why something happens, attempts to generalize what can be applied to a broader group or situation, and predicts what will happen based on the knowledge received. Sociology specifically seeks to explain the

Let’s bring these two things together and have an idea of what in the world is going on right now for women’s advancement to the penultimate role of power and leadership: POTUS … all women, all ages and all stages! This pent-up demand

What is a sociologist?

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and much needed momentum, for women’s equal power and leadership, has been sizzling and slowly progressing for over 3 centuries!

Where are we at now with feminism waves in 2024, and beyond? What can we now expect?

To build vigorous varieties of feminism going forward, we need to let emerging generations of feminists know that they are not living in an isolated moment, with the onerous job of starting afresh.

Rather, they have the momentum created by generations, upon generations, upon generations of women, on which to now build.

Permission and opportunity have arrived!

Hence my focus on Women’s Worth & Wellness – Leadership and Power for every young and old woman at every age and stage. This is THE huge tipping point moment! I could not be happier!

Throughout my career, over the last 60 years, I have experienced so much disappointment, pertaining to women’s leadership

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My focus going forward is to be an enabler, cheerleader, coach, influencer, towards other women and for other women, young and old, every chance I get to help them achieve their ‘penultimate’ – so they will be very prepared, positive and ready, like Kamala, when their opportunity arrives, which it will!

A large part of the Women, Worth & Wellness brand and focus is legacy planning and philanthropy.

Women are inheriting and stewarding incredible wealth, more than ever before, and that reality will only grow to much higher levels. This gives women power and confidence to make their money make a difference in this world e.g. McKenzie Scott and Melinda French Gates – the way men’s power with their money has made a difference in the past!

Women’s philanthropic parity!

At the end of the day, my legacy will be who I helped, connected, introduced, championed and what they achieved because of my actions of connecting and influencing them in their worlds and possibilities, positively! I will always step up, care and lead to the best of my ability to make that difference – it is my MO – which I love! and advancement opportunities, especially my own. I could not be happier to see this incredible moment in time as Kamala Harris ascends to the penultimate role of POTUS. This gives more women, at every age and stage, the courage and determination to ascend to their ideal powerful leadership role. Part of how this momentum has been building and has come about started last summer with the movie “Barbie” with all the $$$ it made. Add Taylor Swift’s global The Eras Tour of 2024, and all the money and power it is generating by this fabulous and very talented woman. Layer in all those

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amazing women athletes, who won incredible accolades and performed amazing feats at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, France, the first time the Olympics were gender parity for athlete participation. The world is now a women's oyster – and it is about time!

I turned 75 on June the 30th, even though I still feel like I am 42, but Father Time always wins the day, as we know. I must be realistic about who I am, what I want now, and how I can positively impact everything I care about, i.e. advancing women’s leadership at their every age and stage.

My goal is to influence and create, to a great extent, many “Joyful Warriors like Kamala”!

This moment in time is an hourglass tipping point with Kamala leading the way. We are all watching and being motivated because of her trending powerful reality to becoming POTUS which motivates me, us and influences our own reality to reach higher.

I am very happy to be alive to watch this new world unfold – and to see the difference women can truly make with their new confidence, power and leadership – aka The Kamala Effect!

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The Unbreakable Spirit Of The Female Entrepreneur MIKE FATA

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reating something from nothing is the magic of entrepreneurship. It’s more than just a business idea; it’s about bringing your unique vision to life. There's an undeniable thrill in taking on the world and forging your own path. Let's be real, the journey is far from a smooth ride.

For women, entrepreneurship provides some unique opportunities such as closing the gender pay gap by setting your salary and benefits and removing the glass ceiling from your workplace as you set the tone and the culture.

Passion: The Fuel and the Flame Passion is the driving force behind every entrepreneur. It's the fire in your belly that propels you forward, even when the going gets tough. Like any intense emotion, passion has its peaks and valleys.

As in love, your relationship with your business will experience exhilarating highs and gutwrenching lows. One day you're riding the wave of success; the next, you're facing a storm of challenges. It's like navigating a turbulent sea – both wildly unpredictable and exhilarating.

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Facing the Storms I recently spoke with the amazing woman founder behind Nuts For Cheese, a rising star in the plant-based food industry. She shared that amidst her success, there are moments of doubt and fear. When profits aren't where you want them, or that big deal falls through, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. The secret: those walls you see might just be illusions!

In those moments of struggle, you're often at your most focused, creative, and resourceful self.

You're fighting for your dream, digging deep to find solutions.

You might not see it then, but you're building the resilience and strength that will propel you forward.

The Myth of the Overnight Success No business is built overnight. It takes grit, determination, time, and a whole lot of hard work.

Those who dismiss successful entrepreneurs as "lucky" fail to see the countless hours, setbacks, and sacrifices that paved the way to their “overnight success”.

How do you navigate the inevitable ups and downs?

• Embrace Your Passion: Passion is your fuel. Let it guide you through the storms and celebrate the sunshine.

• Focus on Effort: You can't control every outcome, but you can control your dedication, hard work and perspective.

• Love the Lows: Challenges are opportunities for growth and selfdiscovery. Embrace them.

• Build Your Support System: Surround yourself with people who believe in you and your vision. Eliminate or minimize the naysayers.

• Trust Yourself: You are stronger than you know. Believe in your ability to overcome any obstacle.

Celebrate Every Step: Entrepreneurship is a journey, not a destination. Find joy in the process, the lessons learned, and the person you have become.

Remember, as women leaders and changemakers, you have the power to break barriers, eliminate a glass ceiling, redefine your success and be a role model for future generations. You are

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Resilient Trailblazers DENYSE NADON

Innovation from Tradition: Using resilience to innovate by blending Indigenous practices with contemporary business models, especially in sectors like ecotourism, beauty and fashion, and food sovereignty.

Financial Creativity: Finding alternative funding sources, such as community investment, crowdfunding, and partnerships, to overcome the lack of traditional financial support.

K

8e Kakina, I am Kokokoo Ik8e (Screech Owl) from the Muk8a (Bear) Clan. I am the granddaughter of the Apitipi Anicinapek Nation matriarchs, Mary Black and Mary Nadon, and the daughter of a residential school warrior, Shirley Nadon, and an entrepreneurial father and avid hunter, James Nadon.

My name is Denyse Nadon, Founder & President of Tribalure Cosmetics & Skincare. Tribalure is more than a beauty brand; it is a cultural movement that weaves together Indigenous traditions, stories, wisdom, and a holistic perspective to redefine beauty standards.

Being an Indigenous woman in business, and specifically in the beauty industry, is a testament to the power of resilience. Despite facing centuries of systemic barriers— including marginalization, economic exclusion, and cultural suppression—I have overcome these challenges with strength, determination, perseverance, and creativity. Resilience is about representing yourself or your brand and about honoring your Ancestors. I believe it is our sacred responsibility to walk with the same resilience and determination our Ancestors did before us.

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For me, the power of resilience means the ability to navigate and transcend historical, cultural, and systemic obstacles while building a business that reflects my values and empowers my family, community, and Nation. It embodies strength, adaptability, and the determination to thrive, despite limited access to capital, social exclusion, and the ongoing impacts of colonization.

Key Aspects of Resilience for Indigenous Women Entrepreneurs: Cultural Preservation: Balancing traditional knowledge, practices, and values with modern business demands to ensure that my businesses reflect and protect our sacred heritage and knowledge.

Overcoming Systemic Barriers: Breaking through obstacles like gender discrimination, economic exclusion, and limited access to resources, often through creative, community-centered solutions.

Empowerment of Community: Building businesses not just for personal success but for the well-being of our families, communities, and Nations, by reinvesting in social, economic, and environmental causes.

Role Modeling: Inspiring future generations of Indigenous women and girls by demonstrating entrepreneurship as a path to personal sovereignty, economic sovereignty, and cultural resilience.

For me, resilience isn’t just about surviving challenges—it’s about thriving while uplifting my family, community, and Nation. It is about reclaiming our narratives and paving the way for future leaders.

Inspiring Future Generations Perhaps the most powerful aspect of being an Indigenous woman in business is my role as a model for future generations. My journey and success serve as a beacon of hope and possibility for young Indigenous women and girls aspiring to break through the barriers of poverty, discrimination, and historical trauma.

By sharing my story, I hope to inspire others to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams. Resilience is not just a response to hardship; it is a proactive force for change.

I strive to show that it is possible to succeed in business while staying true to my Algonquin culture and Nation, offering a powerful counter-narrative to the idea that traditional practices and modern entrepreneurship are incompatible.

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We Are Powerful RAMAN CHOHAN

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t might sound a bit like being a superhero, but for me, being powerful is about reaching my personal and professional goals by staying true to myself. It took a lot of self-reflection and going through tough times to come to this realization. When I started choosing positivity, everything began to change for the better.

This power is something I build from within, no matter the situation. If it’s negative, I position it as a learning; it’s happening for a reason.

Goals, purpose, and inner knowing/ intuition help to achieve where we want to be. Here are a few key elements I use daily: My talent or strength of helping others makes me happy and energized. This is my purpose.

I am and entrepreneur, my own boss, aligning with people who share my values, making a difference in my own way, and creating impacts that matter.

I desire and thrive in many environments. I don’t want to be tied to one corporation as it doesn’t appeal to my needs and cannot keep me happy. ●

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As an entrepreneur, I have created flexibility for me and my family.

To keep positive energy flowing, I create boundaries to tackle even the most difficult demands.

I continuously self-reflect and look for opportunities that align to where I want to be because the only constant in life is change and evolution.

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and naturally draws the right people to me.

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What are you wanting to achieve?

Are you using your power to make them come true?

For me, it’s important to reflect on who I am and what keeps me in a good place. I focus on my goals and surround myself with people who share my values. When I connect with those who understand me, I’m not shy about sharing my ambitions. Having people with shared values can accelerate your ideas, refine your thoughts, derisk your strategy, connect you to additional resources and so much more.

Supporting others is a priority for me. As a recruiter and being in the business of people, I help organizations find the right person or support someone in landing their next exceptional gig. This keeps me in my positive energy.

Often the connections I make lead to trusted, future relationships and reinforce opportunities flowing back in many ways. Like many things in life, we forge deeper relationships by creating and reinforcing trust. When I can help someone pivot from a challenging place to one of opportunity, it makes the impact that I want to make.

I strive to act with purpose, and not just for money. When I’m happy and aligned with my purpose, the money follows, as do other opportunities (financial or otherwise).

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Embracing what works for me allows me to make the right decisions, boosts my confidence,

Embrace what is working.

Let go of what isn’t working.

Continue to live within your purpose.

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Embracing Indigenous Roots JENN HARPER

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y journey with Cheekbone Beauty started as a vision and a dream to create a cosmetics brand that celebrates Indigenous beauty while honoring our deep connection to sustainability. Cheekbone Beauty reflects my Ojibwe heritage and a tribute to the wisdom of our ancestors, who were the original guardians of the Earth.

Cheekbone Beauty is far more than the lipstick and eyeshadow. It's a testament to personal growth, cultural pride, and the power of resilience. From envisioning the company to overcoming life’s hurdles, including the devastating loss of my brother, my story is about transformation and finding strength even in the darkest moments.

iconic brands that have become global staples. Every aspect of Cheekbone Beauty is infused with Indigenous heritage, from the products to the packaging, and the colors we use. Each shade and stroke tells a story and shares a history deserving to be celebrated.

Lessons from Life

Representation Matters

Growing up with a single mother in a small town, I learned that happiness doesn't come from possessions or achievements, it comes from being present and whole in the moment. My early life was unstructured and free from the pressures of education. This unique experience shaped my entrepreneurial journey, giving me a different perspective than those who followed a more traditional path.

For me, Cheekbone Beauty is about creating a space where Indigenous people see themselves reflected and valued. It's offering products that anyone can use, just like those

While I pursued higher education and worked in the food industry, my struggles with addiction and my path to sobriety were a catalyst for my entrepreneurial spirit. And it

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was the profound pain of losing my brother to suicide that truly ignited the fire within me. Cheekbone Beauty became my way to provide hope to Indigenous youth and communities, to transform my grief into something positive.

Forgiveness and Gratitude I've learned a lot about the burden of expectations and the freedom that comes from forgiving and letting go of resentment.

My journey hasn't been easy – navigating addiction, complex family dynamics, and the long road to recovery. It's through gratitude and staying grounded in my Indigenous heritage that I continue to move forward.

Cheekbone Beauty is my way of making a difference. It's a story of resilience, hope, and the power of dreams. My voice is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can create something beautiful, meaningful, sustainable and impactful.

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From Solo To Solidarity KADINE COOPER

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mbarking on the journey from a stable corporate career to the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship can be both exhilarating and daunting. As someone who has walked this path, I can confirm the profound impact of community on my success and resilience. The shift from corporate to entrepreneurship is not just a change in job title; it’s a transformation in mindset, lifestyle, and often, identity.

Leaving behind the structured environment of a corporate job comes with its challenges. The steady paycheck, defined roles, and clear career progression paths are replaced by uncertainty, financial risks, and the need to wear multiple hats. For many aspiring entrepreneurs, the initial excitement is often accompanied by fear—fear of failure, fear of the unknown, and fear of not being enough.

I vividly remember my first few months as an entrepreneur. The freedom to create and innovate was liberating. But the lack of a supportive corporate structure was terrifying. I was no longer responsible for my tasks only; I was responsible for the entire business. It was during this period that the importance of community became strikingly

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clear.

The early stages of entrepreneurship are filled with highs and lows. There are moments of triumph when a new client is secured, and there are moments of doubt and setbacks.

It’s easy to feel isolated, especially when working long hours and facing challenges that few others around you understand.

This is where building a community becomes essential. I made a conscious decision to seek out and surround myself with like-minded individuals on similar journeys. I started attending networking events, joining online entrepreneur groups, and seeking out mentors who had successfully transitioned from corporate to entrepreneurship.

These connections were critical as they provided practical advice and helped me realize that I wasn’t alone in my struggles.

As I established my business, I realized the power of having a core group of people who believed in my vision and supported me. This community included fellow entrepreneurs, mentors, advisors, and loyal clients. They became my sounding board, offering feedback, encouragement, and sometimes, tough love. One of the most significant benefits

of building a community is the opportunity for collaboration.

Entrepreneurship can sometimes feel like a solo journey, but it doesn’t have to be. By collaborating with others, you can leverage their strengths and expertise, leading to innovative solutions and new opportunities.

My business began to thrive when I partnered with other entrepreneurs for joint ventures, co-hosting events, and sharing resources.

Sustaining yourself as an entrepreneur requires more than just a solid business plan; it requires emotional and mental resilience. The entrepreneurial journey is a marathon, not a sprint, and having a supportive community can make all the difference. Your community provides a sense of belonging, reduces isolation, and helps you stay focused on your goals.

Transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship is bold, brave and a bit of a “cray cray move”. It’s a journey filled with challenges and with immense growth opportunities. The key is to remember you are not alone.

Surround yourself with those who uplift and inspire you, and you will find the strength to overcome any obstacle and achieve your entrepreneurial dreams.

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Leap Of Faith NANCY DEWAR

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n the very small town where I grew up, I was given the opportunity to achieve at a very young age. I knew that I wanted a big life. I wanted to explore and be on stage doing something that others would admire. At the age of 7, I was a competitive figure skater that would get up at 5:00 am to go to the arena and practice before school, only to return after school for a few more hours of practice.

Hard work and achievement were highly valued in my family. I wanted to lead, learn and grow. Much of this desire came from watching my mother’s resilience grow after my father died when I was 9. It was instilled in me at a tender young age to take care of myself and that individual worth is determined by demonstrating your value to others.

These aspirations or goals were both good and bad. It is good to be motivated to achieve, however perfectionism and the constant anxiety to achieve can be a crutch and a heavy burden to carry.

After university, I found work that reinforced my need to achieve. I worked in sales and marketing, where the variety of work and the goal-oriented nature of making targets met my personal criteria.

Working for many marketing and manufacturing organizations as a sales leader allowed me to thrive in fast-paced and exciting environments … until I realized something was missing. I was successful in sales and achieving targets, but I needed more… more collaboration, motivation and teambased leadership in supporting and empowering my team to thrive.

Watching my team get promoted one by one, teaching them how to improve processes or aspects of the role and seeing them thrive fueled me. I made a huge decision for a big shift. With two young children and the support of my partner, I went back to school to reroute my path and obtain my Master of Education.

This pivot gave me the knowledge to teach and coach instead of sales.

This was a tough time of change …

I worked full time as a sales leader

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and worked on my Masters part time. This amazing journey took five years with a lot of home support.

This support was critical, and I was with the right partner to support my dreams and goals (and I, his).

My heart knew I had to make this transformation without a clear path of knowing where it would lead.

Sometimes you need to take a leap of faith from your inner knowing, and the support of the right people to do it and do it well.

The world collaborates with you when you follow your heart.

Upon completing my Masters, my professor connected me to a college that needed a sales and marketing professor. This was my dream job, or so I thought at the time! So, I took a big leap, left the corporate world and taught for 3 years. In this period, I realized teaching met some of my needs, but it wasn’t enough … I missed the fast paced, ever-changing world of corporate life. Next step, becoming an entrepreneur and having the flex to teach part time while providing learning and development facilitation for my corporate friends.

To clarify, the corporate world was not easy. After the arrival of my second child, I was the Director of Sales for a company. Ideally, this was my dream job … but the

commute and time away from my two kids was far too much for me. At this point, I was torn. I knew I wanted a career, but as a family unit we were struggling with two big careers and two young children.

This was a time to step back, reflect, and decide how we will manage financially. How will we stay fulfilled professionally while prioritizing being awesome parents and raising two little boys into fine men. This is a struggle for most mothers who work outside the home. The best advice I can give is to find what is working at each point in time.

Initially, I stayed home for a few months, until I found a role where I could work from home. At this point of my journey, a work from home role was hard to find.

As the years progressed, we found what worked for us in each phase of our lives. There was always the effort of balancing fulfillment alongside financial stability and the goal of having a wonderful family.

Now I am an Executive Coach that helps women leaders find the balance needed to grow while being great moms and leaders. I have written two books, one on how to be a great coach in business and the other to help people find their passions called “One Wild and Precious Life”. I have a podcast where I feature women leaders and their journeys to where they are. I also run live leadership events to inspire women to continue to grow, learn and live a fulfilled life. I’ve completed a Ted talk on relearning to trust your instincts. All this is now under my company brand, Inspiring You. The moral of the story: listen to your inner knowing. Take the leap to shift the route of your journey while honoring your other important life roles, whether being a partner, mother, family member, community member, and so on. Learn that things change and adapt so that what is important to you can be supported. By doing so, you can lead a fulfilling life on your terms.

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Self-Belief, Self-Made SHEBA ZAIDI & GENEVIVE SAVUNDRANAYAGAM

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n the world of entrepreneurship, where uncertainty is the only certainty, and every venture is a leap of faith, believing in ourselves and our mission has been our North Star. We’ve come to understand this through our own life journey which has tested our resilience, determination and unwavering conviction that we not only shape our destinies, but we can leave the world a better place.

From the beginning, we both recognized the intrinsic value of believing in ourselves. Born from immigrant backgrounds, we inherited a legacy of resilience and determination from our parents – traits that would become the bedrock of our entrepreneurial spirits.

As a child, I (Sheba) knew that my upbringing in Canada and the Middle East taught me to navigate

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diverse cultural landscapes with empathy and grace. At an early age I had to learn to navigate vastly different worlds – the extremely liberal and Western education I was receiving at my international school, with the conservative environment at home. My ability to dance between these different cultures allowed me to not only develop deep empathy and awareness but also build a resilience that is required to grapple with big identity questions. From a young age, I was quickly forced to figure out what I believed in and what I stood for.

Similarly, my own (Genevive) experience of growing up amidst the turmoil of civil unrest in Sri Lanka instilled within me a profound sense of inner strength.

Growing up, I was witness to extremely

traumatic events and was confronted with stressful situations on a daily basis. I was fortunate to be surrounded by family members who were the epitome of resilience.

They always remained calm under pressure and taught me the strength that comes from going inward to find peace and cope with external life challenges.

Reflecting back, we both recognize how important these foundational years were for us in building our resiliency – not only in life, but in business. It was these unique life experiences and skills that made us realize we could be a power team. After decades of corporate communications experience and building our first successful wine tour business together in 2016, we gained the confidence we needed to leave our careers behind and begin our journey into full time entrepreneurship.

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The catalyst for wanting to launch our mindfulness business, Mahara, came about after seeing high achievers all around us struggle with stress and anxiety but unable to find tools to manage their mental health effectively. We knew how mindfulness practices benefited our lives and saw an opportunity to share what worked for us with others. We were also at a crossroads in our careers and wanted to move into something more mission driven, where we could give back to the world. In 2020, we left our careers behind, never imagining a pandemic would hit just weeks later. And it’s been a whirlwind ever since! We launched Mahara and our first product, The Human Being Journal as a direct response to the pandemic, a time when people were hungry for tools to help manage mental health, provide perspective and live their best lives.

When it comes to living your best life, we are often asked what the critical traits are for building

unwavering confidence, and we often say, resilience and positivity.

Resilient people function effectively under pressure, dealing with tough situations fairly, decisively and calmly. They react to stressful situations in a positive and healthy manner and are productive when there are deadlines and pressures.

They are also receptive to criticism and use it as a tool to learn and improve. We are also extremely positive people, even during the most challenging situations. Like everyone, we have our bad days and have had everything happen to us as founders – lost shipments, supply chain delays, competitor copycats, damaged product, warehouse issues – but no matter what we quickly bounce back and have an optimistic outlook. We credit this to our years of mindfulness practices – including meditating, journaling and breathwork. By increasing our awareness and learning to be present, we find we are able to see situations more objectively and not allow them to have a lasting hold on us.

Secondly, we believe positivity is energy, and we live by the idea that you are responsible for the energy you bring into a room. This was inspired by a story we read about Jill Bolte Taylor, a brain scientist, in her book “My Stroke of Insight.” She talks about experiencing a massive stroke in the left hemisphere of her brain. As she observed her mind deteriorate to the point that she could not walk, talk, read, or write, one thing she didn’t lose touch with was her intuitive and kinesthetic right brain. She said as she lay in her hospital bed – seemingly lifeless – the energy of the people around her played an important role in her recovery. Taylor says she could feel the energy of the people who walked in her room and could even tell which nurses made her feel safe. The nurses who would make a connection with her, simply by making eye contact or touching her foot, made all the difference.

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As opposed to someone who just came in, dealt with the machinery and ignored that there was a person in the bed. Taylor’s story is a reminder to us all that the energy we exude – including positivity – has a ripple effect that impacts everyone around you.

To end, the quote we both live by, and is also included in our journal is, “You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough” by Mae West. This quote embodies what it means to embrace every moment and live life to the fullest. If there's one thing that failure, success and entrepreneurship has taught us, it's that our time is limited, and you have to make it count. And we know that ultimately, it’s not about the businesses we build or the success we achieve – it’s about the journey itself, and the unwavering conviction that with resilience, selfbelief, and touch of optimism, all your dreams are possible.

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The Zen of Leading TRISHA BROUK

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he meeting room is buzzing with nervous energy. A major client is threatening to pull their account, and tensions are high. A top employee just called in sick and there is major construction going on outside the window. As the Founder and CEO, all eyes are on you, expecting a solution, a miracle, a way out of this impending disaster.

Instead of diving headfirst into crisis mode or panic, you pause, take a deep breath, ground yourself, and let your mind settle.

In that moment of stillness, you model the shift. The weight of the situation didn't disappear, but it became manageable. A sense of calm washes over you, and with it comes clarity. You know that with detachment, impermanence and oneness, you can and will drive the solution that will have the perfect outcome.

That's the power of tapping into our Buddha nature. You can transform our modern leadership approach by tapping into your Buddha nature.

Why Zen, you ask? Well, it's because life, both in and out of the workplace, can feel like a never-ending rollercoaster.

There are exhilarating highs, gutwrenching lows, and everything in between. When we lead from a place of constant reaction and stress, we miss out on so much joy, fulfillment, and ultimately, success.

I'm not going to pretend to be some kind of Zen master. Far from it! I've made tons of mistakes, stumbled through challenges, and many times lost my cool, humbly asking for a do-over. Along the way, I've learned invaluable lessons from Buddhist philosophies that have completely changed how I lead and live.

Buddha nature is our innate potential for wisdom, compassion, and well-being. It's like a little seed within us, waiting to be nurtured

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to bloom. How do we tap into this wellspring of inner peace and power?

beyond. We lead with a sense of purpose that transcends individual gain.

First, there's the concept of detachment. It's not about being cold or aloof; it's about not getting swept away by every emotion or setback. It's finding that calm center within, where we can observe situations clearly and make decisions from a place of wisdom, not panic. It helps us respond instead of react.

This all might sound a bit lofty, but trust me, these principles have real-world applications. When we lead with our Buddha nature, we create a more positive, productive, and fulfilling work environment.

We build stronger relationships, communicate more effectively, and navigate challenges with grace.

And with love.

Then, there's impermanence, the understanding that everything changes. Nothing will ever stay the same. No matter how hard we hold on, grip and wish. This can be tough to accept, especially when things are going well, but it's a crucial reality. When we embrace impermanence, we learn to appreciate the good times more deeply and weather the storms with greater resilience. We become more adaptable leaders, ready for whatever life throws our way.

What can you take away? Start small. Take a few minutes each day to simply breathe and be present. Observe your thoughts and emotions without judgment.

When faced with a difficult decision, pause and reflect on your values. Remember, you have within you the capacity for wisdom, compassion, and unshakeable peace.

Finally, there's oneness, the interconnectedness of all beings.

When we recognize our shared humanity, our compassion and empathy expand. We become more attuned to the needs of others, both in the workplace and

The Zen of Leading isn't about perfection; it's about progress.

It's about striving to be the best version of yourself, for your sake and the sake of those you lead. As we journey together, remember, you are not alone. We're all in this beautiful, messy, impermanent dance called life. Let's embrace it with open hearts and minds.

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24 Hard Cooler Tall enough to chill most bottles of wine and keep the essentials fresh while you take the scenic route. | $350 yeti.ca

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Better Together DR. MONICA VERMANI

A

s human beings, we are social animals. We’re hardwired to connect with others. Our ancestors survived in large part due to their social connections that enabled resource sharing, companionship, and safety. In the modern world, our social connections continue to matter. We thrive through our relationships with others. Robust social networks are a strong predictor of long-term health.

Loneliness is a desire to feel connected to others, with negative feelings that arise out of a lack of connection. When we are not lacking in or yearning for stronger or more meaningful connections with other people, we can happily spend time alone. When we lack strong social connections, we suffer in many ways.

While the social restrictions at the height of the pandemic are long gone, its after-effects continue to play out in our daily lives. Many of us find ourselves filled with anxiety and dread at the prospect of a casual get-together with a friend or family member. We regularly cancel plans at the last minute and often feel relieved when a group outing or social gathering is canceled. We also opt to withdraw from our social networks at other points in our lives. For example, we tend to isolate ourselves when we are struggling with depression or anxiety. We often isolate ourselves when we are in the midst of a relationship breakdown, or when we are struggling with feelings of low self-esteem or self-worth.

Before long, isolation can become a habit with serious negative consequences. The habit of social isolation can be a tough one to break. We can lose confidence in our social skills and weaken our relationships with friends and family members. Over time, these patterns and habits can leave us feeling disconnected, lonely, and very much alone in the world.

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If such feelings sound familiar, you are not alone. Social isolation and loneliness are a growing global concern. In his announcement of the establishment of a World Health Organization commission to foster greater social connections, DirectorGeneral Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus cites some of the many consequences of social isolation. “People without enough strong social connections are at higher risk of stroke, anxiety, dementia, depression, suicide, and more.” Further, in 2023, US Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy, in a New York Times essay, shared his struggles with feelings of social disconnection and raised awareness of loneliness as an urgent health concern.

Our connections with others matter more than we may know.

The Harvard Study of Adult Development, the 85-year-old and longest-running study on what makes us happy, has identified the number one key to health

and happiness. It is not career success, wealth, healthy habits, or social status. It is our relationships and connections with others that determine our happiness, health, and well-being.

We may take our first breath into the world on our own, but throughout our lives, we are surrounded by family, friends, neighbors, schoolmates, teachers, the people in our communities, our workplaces, mentors, and society at large. Through our connections we share our burdens, celebrate successes, find the strength to face our challenges, and process our losses. We find solace in times of trouble, and we learn and grow through sharing our experiences, our fears, and our strengths.

It is through our connections that we find happiness, health, meaning, and are able to face life’s challenges. We can live life at our highest and best through connection.

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How Not To Be Alone Eight strategies to help build and grow strong social connections and break patterns of social isolation that lead to loneliness: Acknowledge your feelings of loneliness and patterns that lead to social isolation. What we acknowledge, we deal with. The first step to change is always awareness. Reflect on how your choices and habits have led to losing touch with people who bring you joy, and who you care about. Make a list of small changes you can start to reconnect with friends and family members.

Treat yourself with kindness and compassion as you begin to change your habits. Course correcting and making changes to safe and comfortable routines can be challenging. Habitual self-isolation may be a challenge.

Be on the lookout for negative self-talk, and self-beliefs about being not good enough or worthy of spending time with others.

Challenge any self-limiting beliefs and fears of reengaging with others.

Take it easy. There’s no need to make overly ambitious plans.

Simply calling a friend to join you for a walk in a park, or meeting for a chat at a café, is a great way to ease yourself back into reconnecting.

Set an intention to create positive memories. Resist the urge to cancel plans at the last minute.

Getting out and enjoying the company of a friend or family member will create a positive memory. Over time, accumulating positive memories of social interactions will build confidence and create — or rebuild — positive routines and habits.

Depersonalize setbacks and rejection. You may experience rejection or disinterest when attempting to connect or

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reconnect with someone. If so, try not to take rejections personally.

The person you are attempting to connect with may be struggling with patterns of isolation.

Invest in your relationships.

Relationships require time, attention, and energy. Prioritize spending time with people you care about. Show up for them when they are in crisis. Engage in meaningful conversations.

Resist taking your relationships for granted or putting them on your list of things to do.

Make new connections. At any age or stage in life, we can make new connections with like-minded

people. Sign up for a class or lecture series. Joining a gym or walking group, allowing yourself to indulge in learning a skill or activity you’ve always wanted to explore, or getting involved in a community activity are great ways of making new and meaningful connections with like-minded people who share your interests, concerns, or passions.

If you are struggling with feelings of disconnection and loneliness, seek help. A family doctor can connect you with the support to help manage your symptoms and learn sound skills and strategies that support healing and growth.

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Confidence to Create SUZIE YORKE

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his is all about “BODY!” I often get asked about my workout routine and how I manage to find the time while juggling the demands of being a mom, launching a new brand (FourX Better Chocolates®), lots of innovation, many speaking and podcast engagements and my two fur-babies, Charlie Bear and Queen Victoria.

It all started when I was 18 and suddenly put on 15 pounds I was super sporty all my life and “tiny”. Then, when I started taking the birth control pill, within a few weeks, I gained 15 pounds. Back then, we knew nothing about nutrition. That was the catalyst of my nearly 40-year journey of exercise and nutrition.

When I started my first job out of university, I wanted to get in shape as those 15 lbs were a lot on my small frame. I ate low-fat and dialed up exercise. There was a gym at the office and my goal was 3 workouts per week. I started to run and liked it. I set my sights on my first marathon, NYC 1992. Loved it!

That summer, I did a little triathlon in Peterborough, Ontario. Loved it. I met a group called “Roads Scholars”, 100+ likeminded peeps in GTA that loved endurance events.

My 20’s: working out and racing becomes lifestyle. That’s when my life changed entirely. Working out became part of my lifestyle. I was doing 1, 2 and even 3 workouts a day, to train for an event, at the end of the summer. With “Roads Scholars” we worked hard, worked out hard, compared notes, had goals and vacations planned around our Lifestyle of these endurance events.

My 30’s. A nine-year hiatus.

Then we were all moving along with life. I had kids, became a single mom, and my career was taking off. I wound up having a 9-year hiatus from the Lifestyle of working out daily. My 40’s were around the corner…

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My 40’s. Faster than ever!

Turning 40 made me realize I needed a GOAL. I set my sights on the Boston Marathon. I raced the Toronto marathon, did well, and qualified for Boston. My 8-year-old daughter was there to cheer me on at the finish line! I then raced seven more Ironman events. It was a juggling feat, but it became my life, my lifestyle, my kid’s lifestyle … our vacations and weekends. As a single mom, it kept me out of trouble on those no-kid weekends.

My 50’s. Mind-Body-Soul connection. When I turned 50, I decided to become an entrepreneur. From my kitchen table, I launched “Suzie’s Good Fats™” which became “Love Good Fats”. My long bike rides were no longer. I started practicing hot yoga.

Loved it. A whole new set of demands … Lifestyle evolved to Mind-Body-Soul. I’ve always found a way to make time for exercise.

Every single day. I find the “body” part of Mind-Body-Soul very energizing. It is the reward that offsets a demanding career and the single-mom-long-commutesexecutive-job craziness of my life in my 20's and 40's.

In between all my Mind i.e. “brain work”, I take breaks for my Body.

I’m addicted to my daily injection of dopamine, and so I weave in both all day long.

It's incredible how nurturing my Body soothes my Mind/Work. Each bike ride, run or workout has netted out a solution for work, without exception, nearly over 40 years.

Whether you exercise, workout or train because you feel you must, want, or it’s part of your lifestyle, it’s all good. And it can ebb and flow over time. What doesn’t change is that it is fabulous for your body, your mind, your soul, your health and your life.

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How Health & Wellness Helps Fuel My Creativity PAUL FITZGERALD, PH.D.

I

have learned firsthand the power of health and wellness.

sweets and my body is better off for my smart decisions.

Now I must admit, there was a time in my mid-to-late 30s where I let myself slip; that is, I put on some extra pounds. From about age 35 to 40 I was “burning the candle” at both ends: working 18-hour days, eating out all the time, and exercised very little. I weighed about 215 pounds – a jump up from about 175 pounds when I played hockey and tennis and marched in many parades ripping out lots of sharp notes on the trumpet. Even in college and university I maintained a slim look.

I fell into some bad habits and not looking after myself was taking a toll on my body and my productivity. However, I embraced new habits and the rest is history.

Then I saw my doctor. The news wasn’t good … my blood pressure was sky high and so was my cholesterol. He gave me two choices: go on some pills or change my lifestyle. I remember looking at him and saying: “It’s time for me to change; it’s time I make health and wellness top of mind… no pills, doc!”

With this, I started walking, cooking healthier dishes and eating more fruit and vegetables.

I also cut back on alcohol and

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My health and wellness journey started off slowly. My favorite exercise is walking, so I got into the routine of walking 3,000 to 5,000 steps a day. Sure enough, I got addicted to my walking routine and for the last 14 years I have been doing 15,000 to 20,000 steps each day. That’s not bad for being 54!

I have bananas and oranges in the morning, not a donut or white toast with butter. I have salads for lunch and light dinners, not pizza and poutine. And most nights I have water or tea, not a can of beer or half-a-bottle-of-wine.

My health and wellness journey has also greatly impacted my creativity for writing on every level. Writing stories, columns, and even music, has long been my passion. On my treks each day

I write headlines and titles and lead-ins in my head. Thanks to technology, I record my thoughts on my smartphone and then transcribe the files when back at my home office. And yes, I even record myself singing when I get some kicking-riffs going through my head.

Following a healthier lifestyle has helped me grow my company: I feel more energetic and organized. My vision is razor sharp. My confidence too has skyrocketed: I feel good, l look good, and that goes a long way in meetings and in boardrooms.

I tell everyone – family, friends and peers – to walk each and every day and to eat healthier as it all helps with longevity.

Exercising and eating better has made me stronger, more creative and more focused.

Once you get into walking and eating healthier dishes, you will be hooked.

Get walking, start eating right, and don’t look back!

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The Power Of Surrender CHANTAL MCNEILY

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recently attended a U.K. conference hosted by Elizabeth Gilbert, the author of “Eat Pray Love”. One assignment was to choose a word to guide us through 2024. My word was “surrender”.

When I was younger, I analyzed every decision. From insignificant decisions like what to wear or what to eat, to the big life decisions. I performed an intricate game of mental gymnastics, analyzing every permutation and combination of potential outcomes ad nauseam, before moving forward.

It was exhausting.

There was a constant fear of making the “wrong” decision.

Looking back, I realize that over analyzing gave me a false sense of control. Every decision was viewed through a narrow lens; black or white, right or wrong? Right for who? I was so worried about the opinions of others; I spent a lifetime silencing my own inner knowing, intuition and desires.

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Over the last few years, I have strengthened my self-trust and listened to my inner voice, letting go of the self-limiting belief that a decision is either “right” or “wrong”. I have embraced that decisions can be a spectrum in the multitude shades of grey. It is all a matter of perspective.

Surrendering is often misunderstood as giving up or resigning to fate. In a deeper sense, it’s about letting go of the need to control every aspect of your life. The power of surrender lies in trusting the process, releasing resistance, and allowing life to flow naturally. Being open to opportunities and being confident to know you will be “ok” regardless of the outcome.

To surrender is to accept that some things may be beyond our control and to be open to the magic of self-trust. When you stop micromanaging your life, you free yourself from unnecessary stress and anxiety. This creates space for peace and clarity. By no means have I mastered the art of

surrender. I believe it is a lifelong journey.

Here are a few tips that have helped me along the way: Embrace Uncertainty Life is full of unknowns. By surrendering, you learn to live with uncertainty, knowing that it’s part of the journey. This trust helps you navigate challenges with grace and resilience. The journey will not always be easy and with time you will build your inner confidence and trust you will be “ok” regardless of the outcome.

Releasing Resistance Surrender involves accepting your current reality without resistance.

This doesn’t mean you give up on your goals but rather that you accept where you are right now and trust the journey.

Flow with Life Resistance creates friction and blocks progress. When you surrender, you align yourself with the natural flow of life, allowing things to unfold effortlessly.

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At the end of the conference, we were asked to write a poem with our key takeaways. Here is mine:

The Art of Designing Affluence Something interesting is happening Stay balanced Life is not a mystery to be solved but a mystery to be lived within If you don’t know what direction to take, chase the feeling calm, free, alive, excited

Be Open to New Possibilities Surrender opens you up to opportunities and outcomes that you might not have considered. It allows you to be more flexible and adaptable to change. The most life changing opportunities that I have experienced in both my personal and professional life, have come for the moments I surrendered to the flow of life versus trying to control it.

striving for what could be. True freedom comes from living in harmony with life’s flow, rather than constantly struggling against it. By letting go of the need to control everything and trusting in the process, you open yourself up to greater peace, joy, and possibilities.

The definition of magic is the thing that wants to happen next Be patient and trust the journey

Let Go of Attachments By releasing your attachment to specific outcomes, you free yourself to explore alternative paths that might be even more fulfilling than what you originally envisioned. A friend of mine, and world-famous Tarot creator, explained it to me like this; when you are manifesting your dreams, chase the feeling you want to feel and release your attachment to a specific person, place or thing.

Sometimes the Universe gives us what we want but in the way we envisioned it.

Surrender brings you into the present moment, where you can find peace regardless of external circumstances. It’s about being fully present and content with what is, without constantly

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Authentic Resilience CHRIS MCMARTIN

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esilience is often portrayed as the ability to withstand hardship, to bounce back from adversity. True, authentic resilience goes deeper. It’s about showing up as your full, unapologetic self in the face of doubt, criticism, and setbacks.

It’s about pushing through when others try to convince you that you’re not enough or sometimes (often in my case) that you are too much. Authentic resilience isn’t just about surviving - it’s about thriving on your own terms with integrity.

We live in a world where people try to define your worth, often in ways that diminish your true potential.

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They may tell you that you’re too much or too little, that your goals are unrealistic, or that you don’t have what it takes. As a young girl I took ballet, like many young girls, and of course like many I had a dream that one day I would be a ballerina on the stage. I, like many, was not built like a ballerina. I've always been on the bigger side; I always had a little bit of extra weight, and I was very tall for my age. I loved music and I loved to dance. When I was just six years old, a classically trained ballet teacher told my mom after one of my ballet classes, that I would never be a ballerina (obviously); I just didn't have the body for

it (at six years old!). My mom being the amazing, supportive parent she was, did not share this information until much later in life and continued to encourage me to do what I loved. Not only did I continue to take dance classes for most of my life, I became a dance teacher and a dance coach. I got to enjoy the beauty, community and family of dance well into my 30s.

Much of my character that makes me who I am today is from these years of working with amazing dance teachers, fellow dancers and professionals. I would not have met some of the most impactful people in my life had I (and my mom) not been resilient.

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"It’s about showing up every day, even when it feels like the odds are stacked against you."

told that it was unattainable however I always found out the exact steps I needed to take, the gaps I needed to fill, and with my network and support from true leadership, I was always able to achieve my goals.

The journey to resilience is not easy, but it is essential. It requires courage, self-awareness, and an unwavering commitment to yourself. It’s about understanding

that resilience isn’t just about enduring, it’s about growing, learning, and becoming stronger through the process.

In a world that often tries to dim our light, let’s choose to shine even brighter and help others around us shine. Let’s choose resilience—not just as a response to adversity, but as a way of life.

One of the most significant challenges women face is the constant pressure to conform to others’ expectations. Whether it’s our careers, relationships, or personal lives, the narrative often pushes us to shrink ourselves, to be more palatable, more agreeable, more “acceptable.”

Resilience requires us to resist this urge to conform. It demands we stand tall, rooted in our values and beliefs, even when the world tries to knock us down or change us.

Resilience is also about persistence. It’s about showing up every day, even when it feels like the odds are stacked against you. It’s about continuing to pursue your goals, even when the path is unclear, and the journey is long. This persistence isn’t about ignoring the challenges or pretending they don’t exist, it’s about acknowledging them, facing them head-on, and refusing to let them deter you.

There have been several times along my professional career when I set a goal for a particular role or department that I wanted to be part of. Sometimes I was

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Mindful Resilience: My Journey to Emotional Fitness BRIAN COONES

I

’ve been where many of you might find yourselves today, caught in a cycle of stress, anxiety, and a sense of living a life that doesn’t feel like my own.

There was a time when I thought the key to happiness was external validation, the thrill of a party, or the escape into altered states. But the emptiness remained no matter how much I chased these fleeting moments. It took a near-death experience and the birth of my first child to wake me up. I realized then that I had to embark on an inward journey that would become the cornerstone of my life: developing emotional fitness.

Emotional fitness, much like physical fitness, requires dedication and consistent practice. It’s about thriving, not just surviving, in the face of life’s challenges. For me, this began with a commitment to mindfulness and meditation. I joined the Mindfulness Center and dove deep into practices that helped me face my shadows, the parts of myself I had long avoided. Mindfulness meditation taught me to observe my thoughts without judgment, recognize the triggers that pulled

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me into negative emotional states and respond rather than react.

With practice, mindfulness becomes a way of recognizing patterns and programs that control our lives when we are not aware of them. We all are triggered from time to time, and with mindfulness practice, we may notice this.

However, this doesn’t necessarily help us create resilience, selfregulate, and overcome negative emotions when we do become triggered.

One of the most powerful tools I’ve incorporated into my life to train emotional fitness is deliberate cold exposure. At first, the idea of submerging myself into cold water was daunting. But each plunge taught me something invaluable: how to manage my stress response. The cold is a teacher, pushing you out of your comfort zone, forcing you to confront your fears, and teaching you to breathe through discomfort.

These moments in the cold have translated into my everyday life, helping me remain calm and centered, even amidst chaos.

Another cornerstone of my journey has been gratitude. It’s easy to overlook the power of appreciation.

Writing down a few things I’m grateful for each day has rewired my brain. Gratitude shifts your focus from what’s missing in your life to what you have. It’s a simple practice, yet it’s profoundly transformative. Over time, I survived and thrived, with a deeper appreciation for the little moments of joy and connection.

One thing I want you to take away from my journey is this: resilience isn’t something you’re born with; it’s something you cultivate.

Whether through meditation, cold exposure, or gratitude, these practices are tools to rewire your brain and build emotional fitness.

They’ve helped me rewrite my story and can help you rewrite yours.

We all have a story, and we are not bound to the chapters written in our past. You have the power to be the author of your life. So, ask yourself: Are you ready to rewrite your story?

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Unbreakable Style RENEE LINDO

"

I

feel like I woke up with a new body". "This body is not my own".

I hear this from clients frequently.

Imagine waking up one morning, looking in the mirror, and not recognizing the person staring back at you. Your favorite clothes don’t fit, and everything in your closet feels wrong. Sound familiar?

For many women navigating the physical and emotional changes of menopause, this is an all-toocommon experience. What if I told you that your personal style could be your secret weapon to reclaiming your confidence and thriving through this season of life?

a statement, and a reflection of who we are. In our personal and professional lives, the way we present ourselves sends a message before we speak. It’s how we communicate confidence, competence, and individuality. As professional women, navigating the unique challenges of perimenopause and menopause, style becomes a more potent and powerful tool to help achieve our goals and thrive during this transformative phase of life.

Remember, menopause is not the end. It’s a new beginning.

Our style is the packaging of our personal brand. Just as a welldesigned package can elevate a product, the right wardrobe can elevate our presence. When we dress in a way that aligns with who we are and how we want to be perceived, we communicate selfassuredness and intention. This is especially critical in the workplace, where first impressions matter, and they can shape opportunities and outcomes.

Here’s the thing, your style is more than just clothing; it's a language,

Beyond the external impact, our style profoundly affects our internal

Your wardrobe isn’t just about clothes … it’s a powerful tool to achieve your goals, both personally and professionally.

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state. Research shows that what we wear can influence our mood, mindset, and overall confidence.

Think about it … when you feel well-put-together, don’t you feel empowered, ready to tackle the day, and resilient in the face of challenges? This becomes more essential as we navigate the physical and emotional shifts that come with menopause.

But let’s be real … menopause can be challenging. And every woman experiences perimenopause and menopause differently. Clothes that once fit perfectly now feel tight, uncomfortable, or simply unflattering. Suddenly, your closet seems like a minefield of frustration. Nothing there is your vibe any longer, and there’s hardly anything that makes you feel good.

It’s easy to start feeling crummy and disconnected from the person you once were.

Before you get down on yourself, I encourage you to think about this... menopause is a normal part of aging, AND you can look and feel good… it is not the end. Both things can be true!

Instead of viewing it as a limitation, let's normalize thriving through it.

Yes, menopause brings changes:

weight gain, weight redistribution, and new body proportions can make getting dressed feel different, even daunting. These new elements are an opportunity to rediscover and reinvent your style. It’s a chance to curate a wardrobe that fits, flatters, uplifts, and supports you in feeling your best.

What would be possible if you showed up for yourself? If you understood how to dress your changing body in a way that made you feel confident? What would you make yourself available for if you felt empowered by your style rather than defeated by it?

Would you say “yes” more often? ● ● ● ●

●

Yes to date nights Yes to new opportunities Yes to networking events Yes to putting yourself out there Yes to throwing your hat in the ring

When your style aligns with the woman you are now, and tells the story you want to tell, your energy shifts and you expand what you’re available for.

So, what can you do to start reclaiming your style?

Create a new Style story. Your “Style Story” is the framework I developed and take clients through to get clarity and feel confident with their style.

S - Style clarity- think about how you want to move through the world, which words resonate with you and what’s your personal style T - Tailor your closet- Edit your closet to ensure what’s in your closet fits you now, you love, and you feel amazing in O - Own your body- Understand how to dress your changing body, by accentuating your assets and balancing your proportions R - Refresh your wardrobe- add pieces that speak to the woman you are now Y - Your sauce- add accessories and colours that allow your personality to shine Your style is an important component of your Menopause Thrive Kit. Dressing for your current body, embracing comfort without sacrificing style, and using clothing to boost your confidence are all ways to feel more in control during this time.

You are unbreakable.

By embracing this season of life with intention, you can use your wardrobe as a tool to achieve your goals, express your unique identity, and remind yourself every day that you are powerful, capable, and thriving.

IAMUNBREAKABLE.COM

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