What is YOUR next step?
Understanding the Menace of Online Catfishing
Life comes with many changes - some expected, some unexpected, some positive, some challenging, but you don’t have to navigate them alone. There are people who care & want to help. I'm here to connect you with them!
What is YOUR next life change?
Hi! I’m Deena Kordt, creator & host of the Life Changes Channel podcast. Join me here to meet people who can help you, as well as hear other people’s stories that will give you hope
You will hear from our team of experts & professionals how to navigate life's changes with more ease and less drama
Do you have questions or a suggestion for a topic you want to know more about? Let me know!
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with Deena Kordt
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This spring I’ve been in front of several audiences speaking about fostering compassionate communities
Why is this so important? Don’t we have bigger things to worry about?
Good questions And I don’t have all the answers, but I strongly believe that the cure for many things our communities are struggling with starts with compassion.
We’ve heard plenty of suggestions and gotten encouragement in the ‘kindness matters’ movement ‘Be Kind’ is the seed of compassion It opens an awareness in us that sees others around us as people we can affect positively with a kind action
That’s a great place to start It’s also easy to do for strangers as well as family, friends and colleagues because a kindness is easily extended even without words
So what is different about compassion and why have I been preaching about it so much?
Compassion is defined as an emotional response to empathy or sympathy and creates a desire to help.
Empathy is our feeling of awareness toward other people's emotions and an attempt to understand how they feel.
In other words, compassion is kindness rooted in an appreciation of other human beings as real people who also suffer and looking for ways to act caringly.
Compassion is when you relate to someone’s situation, and you want to help them It goes beyond kindness It’s deeper and lasts longer It’s more involved and seeks to find solutions that are genuinely supportive
That’s why I think compassion is the cure we need in our communities. To see others through a lens of kindness, and connecting to them with compassion and curiosityseeking to learn how we can best help them - without judgement
Yes, we all have our own problems and challenges to work out, but when we reach out to others with compassion, we also discover the unique gifts, skills and connections others have to offer us. Together we reach our goals and solutions faster and better while building strong bonds of community at the same time.
I think compassion is the best medicine for our world Let me know if you agree!
If you are considering or going through divorce or separation or other major life changes, please attend — we can help!
If you are a service provider interested in building connections with those navigating these difficult transitions, or with other providers, we welcome you!
It is our mission to create a trusted, safe, and supportive environment where you can gain information from our featured experts to help you manage these changes in your life easier, efficiently, and with more satisfactory outcomes.
Experts, you will not only meet people seeking services like yours, but you will also get to know others working in these areas to build strong networks that will support your clients through education and encouragement.
Where & When?
Our groups meet online via zoom once every 2 weeks.
Check the events page on our website or find us on Eventbrite.
Everyone is welcome. Limited spots. Claim your free ticket before they’re gone.
Tuesdays @ 12:00 noon (MST) x 1 hour max., every four weeks
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Zoom meeting with a keynote speaker (~ 20 min presentation)
Live Q & A
We look forward to connecting with you!
Fear Less
Trusting Yourself
Rebuilding Confidence After Abuse
Are You Prepared For Your Divorce
Between Divorce & Real Estate
Tips from a Family Law Lawyer
Having a baby can be such an exciting time in someone’s life But with that excitement can come uncertainty For example, maybe you realized you need a bigger house to accommodate your growing family and are wondering how being on, or going on, maternity/parental leave will affect what you qualify for on a mortgage to purchase the perfect family home
I want you to stay excited so am here to give you some insight into how maternity/parental leave affects qualifying for a mortgage, starting with how banks and lenders look at parental leave.
The good news is that banks and lenders will let us use your return-to-work income provided you have a letter confirming your return-to-work date and income at that time But let’s break that down a little further as there are a few key things that determine what a lender uses for income:
- The first thing is how far away your return-to-work date is, meaning if you are at the start of your leave or are taking 18 months, what a lender uses for income can look different than if you are going back in say 6 months This is where a mortgage broker comes in as we work with numerous banks and lenders, and it is our job to know who allows what on something like maternity leave and the income they will use If you are 11 months away from returning to work, it is my job to know if there is a lender who will use your full income.
- The second thing is how you are paid, for example are you salary, hourly, or commission? Or do you work overtime? Do you receive bonuses? What a lender uses for income could depend on how you are paid.
- The other details in your application With any mortgage application, we need to take a look at credit, income versus debt, employment/income, and how much down payment there is and where it is coming from
Let me end with saying every situation is different and the best way to know how parental/maternity leave could affect you buying a new home, is to speak to a mortgage broker We are here to look at your individual situation and advise on what your mortgage options are based on your details
If you would like to set up a time to discuss your situation, please reach out!
In today’s digital world, catfishing has become a prevalent yet seldom discussed issue It’s a form of deceit that thousands fall victim to, yet it often remains shrouded in silence and shame My personal experience with catfishing serves as a stark reminder of this hidden epidemic
In 2012, loneliness and a desire for companionship led me to an online dating site It was there that I encountered "Martin Silva," a figure who appeared as a charming soldier stationed in Afghanistan. Little did I know, this encounter would spiral into a manipulative web of deceit that would cost me over $500,000.
As a successful individual, with a beautiful home and a thriving business, I never imagined I could fall prey to such a scam Yet, the profound sense of loneliness and the human need to be desired and loved can blur the lines of reality My interaction with this imposter, far from being a genuine connection, turned into a relentless and sophisticated form of brainwashing
The catfisher’s tactics are cunningly designed to isolate victims from their support systems, creating a false world where the only bright future seems to be with them The promises, the crafted emergencies, and the constant communication are all tools to maintain control and exploit vulnerabilities I was led to believe in a future that would never materialize, holding on to the false hope that with "Martin," happiness was just
The financial loss was substantial, but the emotional and psychological impact was even more profound I was alienated from everything important in my life, succumbing to a scam that I, like many others, believed I was too smart to fall for This experience led me down a path of isolation, turning more and more to wine to numb the pain and humiliation
By sharing my story in "Hell in High Heels" and through this article, I aim to shed light on the reality of catfishing. It's a cautionary tale that transcends financial loss, impacting emotional well-being and trust. This scam can happen to anyone, regardless of their intelligence or success.
As we move into the future, let's break the silence rrounding catfishing Awareness and open nversations are crucial in preventing others from during similar fates Remember, in the digital world, t everything is as it seems, and the cost of deception n be much more than financial – it can be the very sence of our trust and well-being
arm regards, net Folk thor & Entreprene
Summer always reminds me of my childhood, carefree days of eating homemade popsicles, running through the sprinkler on a hot day, slushies, the coconutty smell of suntan lotion, the sound of power boats, and children laughing
Joy, sheer joy.
Have you lost your joy? Are you excited for the coming summer, or does it feel like more of the same old humdrum, boring work life?
How do we get so off track in our careers? Why does our work feel like the dead of winter instead of the joy of summer? Something to be excited about Something to look forward to
Too often, we job search when we need employment versus doing intentional career planning and decision making We take the first job offered to us We go to work with a friend because it’s easy They’re willing to hire us There’s no risk We give up what we like to do and settle for what’s available
In career development, we talk a lot about passion What’s your passion? It’s a very hard question for people to answer, and most of the time they don’t know It’s ok not to know Most people don’t have a driving passion But they do have preferences, and preferences are easy to identify Do you like working inside or outside? Or both? Do you like sales or engineering? Do you want to work in health care or construction?
When I work with clients, we identify the work they like to do and figure out how they can do more of it. When we do that, they find work that energizes them and recharges them.
Stop going through life on autopilot If the joy has been sucked out of your life, its time to embrace a summer mentality and find that joy again Take a course in something you love Update your skills in areas you’ve long neglected Learn about how the world of work is changing and how you can set yourself up to move into areas that interest and inspire you
Start small Find an activity or hobby that brings you joy and add it into your life Now start doing this same activity with your career Soon it will feel like summer all year long
Ann Nakaska ann nakaska@shaw ca
At Anam Rural Youth Association, we’re dedicated to providing innovative support services tailored to marginalized and at-risk youth and young adults aged 13-25in theruralcommunities of CentralAlberta.
Our mobile, trauma-integrated, crisis intervention, psychological first aid approach service is designed to empower individuals tonavigate life's challenges.
WhatSetsUsApart:
- Support for those who don’t fit traditional models: Our services are specifically designed for individuals who may not find traditional therapy settings suitable or effective. We understand that generational trauma and negative previous experiences with traditional servicescancreate barriers toseeking help.
That’s why we offer an informal, casual environment, free from constraints of traditional therapy, catering to those whom conventional approaches are not the rightfit.
- Personalized, Non-Clinical Approach: We prioritize providing personalized support in a non-clinical setting. Our unique blend of introspective education and motivational interviewing empowers individuals to explore their challenges and strengths in a supportive environment.
How We Can Help:
- Tailored support for unique needs: We offer personalized support tailored to the unique needs and experiences of each client, whether they’re facing challenges related to trauma, mental health or personal development
- Community Outreach and Education: In addition to our direct support services, we’re dedicated to raising awareness about mental health issues and providing education and resources to communities, schools and organizations.
- Mobile Support: As a mobile service, we travel to our clients, ensuring that support is accessible and convenient for those in rural communities
For further information and to reach out, please visit our website at www anamruralyouth com
If you would like to partner, support in granting opportunities, or donate, contact Louise
Email: louise@anamruralyouth com
phone: 403.318.7690 or visit: anamruralyouth.com
Alberta has the highest rate of police-reported intimate partner violence in the nation, according to Statistics Canada, with 535 incidents per 100,000 population in urban areas This is a stark reminder that many survivors of abuse need greater hands-on help to escape gender-based violence situations Shelter Movers has recently arrived in Calgary and Edmonton to help meet this need
Since its establishment in 2016, ShelterMovers has opened 9 Canadian chapters and has completed over 6500 moves. The two Alberta chapters, which opened in September of 2023,havecompletedover20movesinjustfourmonths
When asked about the impact of Shelter Movers’ arrival in Alberta, the Honourable Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth said, “Shelter Movers’ expansion to Edmonton and Calgary is such an essential service because we know that one of the most dangerous times in the life of someone experiencing domestic violence is when they are trying to leave home I’m truly inspired by how their incredible team, who are mostly volunteers, work day in and day out to make sure that survivors of gender-based violence can move safely and quickly I’d like to ask Canadians to consider volunteering for Shelter Movers to strengthenyourowncommunitiesandimprovethequality
Shelter Movers provides free moving and storage services for referred clients, something no other Canadian charity offers The step-by-step process is done with dignity, high levels of security, and in strict confidence Planning and financing a move can be a daunting task during the best of times, but Shelter Movers believes fleeing an abuser should be safe and easy
Fleeing domestic violence takes courage and resources. Shelter Movers works with local women’s shelters, security services, vehicle rental companies, and storage companies to relocate survivors and their belongings. In the absence ofShelterMovers,survivorsrisklosingeverythingtheyown, or worse, staying in an abusive situation due to lack of support. To continue to provide this service to survivors at no cost, Shelter Movers is looking for more Albertans who have time to assist with moves, as well as businesses to partnerwith.
Harnessing the power of community through a variety of volunteer roles both in person and remote, Shelter Movers has opportunities to suit any preference and ability. Everyone has a role to play in ending gender-based violence.Ifvolunteeringisn’tpossible,considerdonating.
oflifeofallCanadians.
The cost of the program is less than the was consuming!
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I was self conscious; I had no confiden ate large meals. I hated shopping for clo In the past year, with hypnosis, I am hal my goal!
I have eliminated 50 lbs and 33 inches. dropped from a size 22 or 2 XL down to 16! I am more consistent with fitness ac and I can walk more with out being exhau
Daily I focus on having 10,000 steps, track of my food, I consistently eat less binge eating. It is now fun to shop for clo
Hypnosis helps me daily. I control m cravings by being more aware and moving my body to change my mind and I have some water!
In spite of a series of negative life events I was able to continue to be successful. I still walked 10K steps and ate sensibly.
With Hypnosis I am more confident. I am better at being clam and being able to relax so that I can sleep.
This program has changed my thinking. My friends compliment me and family asks what I am doing to succeed…hypnosis!
It took me a month to finally call for the Free Screening. The screening was friendly and full of information.
The cost of the program was much less than the amount of food I was consuming and the cost of bigger clothes!” ~Kelly
I SEE YOU!
You had have dreams (that STILL MATTER BTW)
Let's dig them up. Dust them off. Shine them up & MAKE THEM HAPPEN!
Don't you dare give up GF. There's a reason you’re reading this magazine! You don't have to do this alone - I'm here to show you easy steps to powerful manifesting! Inside these books you'll find:
simple steps to help you make sh*t happen in your life
tons of stories to encourage & inspire you journaling prompts (& pages) to find your pump up your manifesting power!
Ready?! LET'S GO!
Life changes - sometimes suddenly and sometimes as expected, yet it can still throw you off balance. You feel lost, disoriented & adrift, thinking that by now you should have all your life stuff figured out and be well on your way to success and contentment.
How do you handle those curves, speed bumps and walls that inevitably show up? Are anger, shame, guilt, and resentment overwhelming you? Ya, I've been there too.
Hi, my name is Deena Kordt, and as an author, blogger & women's empowerment coach, I'd love to help you explore what is possible for you when life is changing & you don't want to give up on a brighter future. Let's connect!
U.Glow GRL
DeenaKordt.com
DON'T GIVE UP ON WHAT YOU WANT MOST. I CAN HELP YOU MAKE SH*T HAPPEN!
How? I'll help you reconnect with parts of your heart & mind that HAVEN'T forgotten there is MORE abundance available for you - all the stuff that dreams are made of. Find the inspiration & support to create more in your life.
You can find my books on Amazon, in Chapters & local stores. And hey - I believe in you!
Shock and pain came crashing over me – crushing me.
I was desperately gasping for air, struggling to breathe –doubled over, as if I’d been kicked hard in the chest
Grief was ripping me open from somewhere deep inside
There was no breath to release the heart-wrenching sobs that were choking me – my throat tight, my brain terrified, as I stumbled up the stairs to escape what I’d just seen, knowing it couldn’t be left behind
I’ll never forget that day. It marked the beginning of my journey to freedom.
What did I see?
A picture
Not just any picture It was one I hadn’t known existed I was well aware of the subject matter, but was totally unprepared to have that image so graphically displayed amongst literally thousands of random photos
When my elderly, world-traveling Aunt passed away, I had taken on the task of sorting through her massive photo collection, the majority of which were from trips she’d taken throughout her life I could appreciate & admire her adventures, but most of these held no sentiment for us, and she had no children or spouse to leave them to. With due diligence, I was glancing at each one as I sorted through the stacks and albums, unknown to me that one envelope held that fateful image – the one that would be a catalyst for major changes in my life.
As I turned the photo over, my initial reaction was confusion Within a split second, I realized what this was, what I was seeing in full color, what this scene had meant for our family, what I had not expected to ever have to see, what I had thought was behind me There, in my hands, was a picture of the accident scene where one of my brothers had died almost 8 years before
The extremely strong reaction I had to seeing that image shook me to the core I could not understand or explain why it was so swift and so debilitating At this point, our family had lost 2 of my 3 brothers The other had died 17 years before My brain was telling my body that it had completely overreacted That with so much time past, I should be well and over it all But, apparently, I wasn’t
So, for the first time in my life (despite accusations of what this stigma would communicate to others), I sought help for my mental health I knew the reaction I’d experienced seeing that photo had been physical, but the trigger was psychological. This couldn’t be ignored. It had been horrible, and I wanted to heal it. I needed professional support to do that.
The therapist I saw for a handful of visits was perfectly suited to me in many ways, including having also lost a younger brother in an accident As I described my reaction to the picture, she agreed that there was much grief for me to work through but asked what was going on in my life that may have delayed this for so long That inquiry was the beginning of my discovery that I was living in an abusive situation - the state of hypervigilant survival mode I lived every day was not normal, or healthy, and had left no room to deal with these losses
I’ve since learned that the narcissistic abuse I was living in, with the crazy-making & other forms of psychological power-over, had me questioning my perception of reality and my own identity I felt like I didn’t even know who I was anymore. I needed to figure that out before I could start dealing with the grief of losing someone else. I had lost myself. I needed to reconnect with who I was. One of the first exercises the therapist had me do was what I want to share with you now. Ten words that will change your life.
She asked me to write out the first 10 words (adjectives) that came to my mind that described me I wasn’t to spend time thinking about it or go back & make any changes – just write the first 10 words I thought of Then, I was to request that a few others in my life do the same for me: a family member, a close friend, and a co-worker
I’ll admit, at first I was afraid to tackle this assignment, already feeling disconnected from myself, it was uncomfortable to think of how to describe myself. Being a bit of an overachiever (& rebel lol), I had every intention of going back & making edits to my list, but I was surprised when I read back through it, that there wasn’t anything I wanted to change. I received the other lists from the requests I’d made and brought all of these, including mine, to the next therapy session.
The therapist read each list out loud, asking if there was anything that resonated with me, and if anything made me uncomfortable or that I didn’t agree with Interestingly enough, all the lists were practically identical Only a couple of words from other’s lists needed some closer examination and she suggested I ask them for clarification of what they’d meant Once I did that, I was further reassured those adjectives genuinely fit me
I Can Not fully describe here the massive relief that flooded over me to see those lists. The 10 words that changed my life. To have confirmation that I was not lost, but rather I’d lost touch with myself. My core was intact. Others saw it. I could see it now too - if I’d pause & allow myself to notice. Such immense relief! From there, I was able to start a healing process, with more awareness, with compassion for myself, and strength in knowing who I was.
This knowledge gave me courage to do the hard parts, to work towards accepting my worth, my authentic self who fits the description of those lists
If there’s one thing I could tell you about life, my first piece of advice is to “Always Follow Your Instincts”, but next to that, I’d highly recommend – in fact, I challenge you! to do this 10 Words exercise Do the full-meal deal – ask at least 3 other people to do this for you as well Offer to do it for them too Until you’ve experienced it, you won’t understand the power in it Please trust me on this This is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself and others. Teach it to the kids in your life. They can grasp this concept at a fairly young age. The list doesn’t have to be limited to 10 – use less, use more – the important thing is to do it.
And please, please feel free to share with me what happens for you when you do
Here’s the first word I’m offering to you to get you started – resilient
“Why?” you ask Why can I say that about you when I may not even know you personally? Because, my dear strong beautiful friend, because you are here today, reading this, after all you’ve been through, and you’re looking for ways to make your life even better! I admire you so much for that I appreciate you to infinity for allowing me to be a part of that You are seen
Now it’s time to see yourself – it’ll be so worth it!
xo Deena
Funding provided by
Is life going in a new direction?
Are your personal needs, family life, income needs, work schedule or availability changing?
The Branch Out Workshop series can help you reimagine how you work. These workshops explore non-traditional work as a strategy to establish a new work-life balance. Learn about different ways to work and begin your new path with confidence and realistic strategies.
The workshops are offered virtually and are free.
For more details, go to purposefulcareers.ca
Check out podcast episode #64 Non-Traditional Careers with Gail Kastning on the Life Changes Channel
Founded in 2006, Painting Experts has since expanded to include a dedicated team of 7 professionals offering full RESIDENTIAL REPAINT services.
Voted Best Painting Company for 4 consecutive years in 2020, 2021, 2022, & 2023.
We are excited to continue serving the Red Deer and Central Alberta community with dedication and excellence, taking pride in what we do and how we do it
Everything starts with me and ends with me
Ph: 587-806-5998
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