The Eloquent Entrepreneur: Conversations with Everyday Changemakers

In this Christmas episode of The Eloquent Entrepreneur, Linda Mackey sits down with author and “Angel Lady” Wendy S. Burton—founder of World Tree Technologies and writer of Amy and the Angels—to talk about signs, intuition, and what it can look like to be guided through life’s hardest moments. Wendy shares the $5 gas-station story that changed everything, plus a simple way to “meet” your angel and ask for a sign (yes, there’s an Amazon comparison). If you’ve ever had a moment that felt like more than a coincidence, this conversation will leave you feeling steadier—and a little more open to what might be walking beside you.TAKEAWAYS-Everyday change makers can make real change one step at a time.-Angels can provide guidance and support in our lives.-Personal stories of angelic encounters can inspire others.-Belief in angels can bring comfort and faith.-Asking for signs from angels can lead to profound experiences.-Vulnerability allows for deeper connections and healing.-Sharing stories can empower others to share their own.-Daily practices can help individuals connect with their angels.-Wendy's journey from tree lady to angel lady reflects her personal growth.-The vision for the future includes inspiring others through storytelling.CHAPTERS00:00 Empowering Everyday Change Makers01:33 Wendy S. Burton: A Journey of Reinvention04:00 The Role of Angels in Our Lives07:51 Personal Stories of Angelic Encounters11:50 The Impact of Sharing Stories15:43 The Power of Belief and Faith19:33 Connecting with Your Angels23:51 The Legacy of World Tree Technologies27:41 Winging It: The New Podcast31:38 Asking for Signs and Guidance35:47 The Importance of Vulnerability39:26 Daily Practices to Connect with Angels43:31 The Transition from Tree Lady to Angel Lady47:23 The Vision for the Future51:45 Making a Difference in the WorldVISIT OUR WEBSITEhttps://www.eloquententrepreneur.com/FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/eloquententrepreneurCREDITSGuest: Wendy S. BurtonWebsite: https://www.wendysburton.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wendy.s.burton/Host: Linda MackieLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindamackiecreative/PRODUCTIONKeenliiWebsite: https://www.keenlii.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keenliico/Producer: Barry KeeganLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrykeegan/SUBSCRIBE AND SUPPORTIf this episode resonated with you, please subscribe and leave a review on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube. Your feedback helps bring more thoughtful conversations into the world.ABOUT THE ELOQUENT ENTREPRENEURThe Eloquent Entrepreneur is a podcast where I chat with my clients and changemakers alike—from across Canada and beyond—about the work they do, the stories that have shaped them, and the impact they’re making. All to inspire and motivate others to do the same.Because making a difference just starts with showing up, and these conversations remind us just how empowering that can be.Whether you're a founder, creative, coach or community builder, you'll hear honest, personal stories from everyday people who are making a lasting impact—on their own terms.

In this month’s episode of The Eloquent Entrepreneur, Linda sits down with Mike Reilly—financial advisor, founder of Gaining Altitude Financial, and committed community builder. Mike shares how his early experiences with money shaped his approach today, why financial literacy matters more than ever, and how his Financial Flight Plan helps people find clarity and confidence at every stage of life.They also talk about their new Rotary project to bring an outdoor pool to Victoria’s West Shore—proof that meaningful change often starts with one small question and a willingness to act. Tune in for a grounded, practical conversation about money, community, and the everyday steps that move us forward.TAKEAWAYS-Every day change makers can make meaningful change one step at a time.-Financial literacy is crucial for personal and community growth.-80% of Canadians do not receive financial advice.-Financial planning should focus on life goals, not just investments.-Women often have a more realistic view of financial risks.-The financial industry needs more young professionals.-Wealth transfer requires careful planning to avoid tax inefficiencies.-Community involvement can enhance personal and professional life.-Action leads to motivation, not the other way around.-Successful entrepreneurs do what others are unwilling to do.CHAPTERS00:00 Empowering Everyday Change Makers01:20 What Mike Does Today04:30 Why Financial Conversations Matter06:58 The Path to Becoming a Financial Advisor11:20 Estate Planning and Probate Awareness15:06 Rebuilding Life Through Financial Clarity17:14 The Financial Flight Plan20:18 Long-Term Wins With Clients23:30 Community Work and Giving Back30:21 Action Before Motivation42:17 Starting the Outdoor Pool Project53:36 The Value of Visual Branding58:53 Looking Ahead and Personal LegacyVISIT OUR WEBSITEhttps://www.eloquententrepreneur.com/FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/eloquententrepreneurCREDITSGuest: Mike ReillyWebsite: https://www.mikereilly.ca/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-reilly-1b3bb78/Host: Linda MackieLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindamackiecreative/SHOWInstagram https://www.instagram.com/theeloquententrepreneur/PRODUCTIONKeenliiWebsite: https://www.keenlii.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keenliico/Producer: Barry KeeganLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrykeegan/SUBSCRIBE AND SUPPORTIf this episode resonated with you, please subscribe and leave a review on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube. Your feedback helps bring more thoughtful conversations into the world.ABOUT THE ELOQUENT ENTREPRENEURThe Eloquent Entrepreneur is a podcast where I chat with my clients and changemakers alike—from across Canada and beyond—about the work they do, the stories that have shaped them, and the impact they’re making. All to inspire and motivate others to do the same.Because making a difference just starts with showing up, and these conversations remind us just how empowering that can be.Whether you're a founder, creative, coach or community builder, you'll hear honest, personal stories from everyday people who are making a lasting impact—on their own terms.

In the latest episode of Eloquent Entrepreneur, host Linda Mackie sits down with Jill Lawrence—website designer, mindfulness and meditation teacher, and co-founder of the Cowichan Women’s Business Network (CWBN). They dig into how entrepreneurship can be a vehicle for personal growth, why boundaries matter, and how daily mindfulness supports clearer decisions. Jill shares the story behind CWBN’s fast start, the role of co-regulation and intuition in client work, and her path from nervous networker to confident speaker (including a 400-person DisruptHR talk). You’ll also hear simple, practical advice on balancing creativity with strategy and taking tiny steps that actually move ideas forward.TAKEAWAYS-Entrepreneurship can double as inner work—clarity grows when you set and keep boundaries.-Daily mindfulness, even a short morning sit, steadies the day and sharpens choices.-Co-regulation with clients helps unlock better ideas and calmer collaboration.-Creativity and strategy aren’t opposites—thoughtful web design can be both art and structure.-CWBN shows what happens when women gather to learn, collaborate, and give back.-Inclusive community building takes intention—diversity and belonging must be designed in.-Public speaking confidence is built by practice—start small, then stretch.-Progress loves micro-commitments: pick one small action by a specific date and do it.VISIT OUR WEBSITEhttps://www.eloquententrepreneur.com/FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIAInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/eloquententrepreneurCREDITSGuest: Jill LawrenceWebsite: https://www.jillianlawrence.com/CWBN: https://www.cwbn.ca/Host: Linda MackieLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindamackiecreative/PRODUCTIONKeenliiWebsite: https://www.keenlii.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keenliico/Producer: Barry KeeganLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barrykeegan/SUBSCRIBE AND SUPPORTIf this episode resonated with you, please subscribe and leave a review on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube. Your feedback helps bring more thoughtful conversations into the world.ABOUT THE ELOQUENT ENTREPRENEURThe Eloquent Entrepreneur is a podcast where I chat with my clients and changemakers alike—from across Canada and beyond—about the work they do, the stories that have shaped them, and the impact they’re making. All to inspire and motivate others to do the same.Because making a difference just starts with showing up, and these conversations remind us just how empowering that can be.Whether you're a founder, creative, coach, or community builder, you'll hear honest, personal stories from everyday people who are making a lasting impact—on their own terms.

In the latest episode of Eloquent Entrepreneur, host Linda Mackie interviews Diane Lloyd, a leadership coach focused on empowering women, particularly those in midlife. They discuss the importance of authentic leadership, the challenges women face during midlife transitions, and the power of vulnerability in personal and professional growth. Diane shares her journey into coaching and the significance of continuous learning as an entrepreneur. The conversation emphasizes the need for women to embrace their strengths and support one another in leadership roles.TAKEAWAYS-Diane Lloyd emphasizes the need for authentic, human-centered leadership.-Women over 40 possess immense potential and should be supported in leadership roles.-Midlife transitions can lead to a loss of confidence, which needs to be addressed.-Vulnerability is a strength that fosters connection and courage.-Continuous learning is essential for success as an entrepreneur.-Diane's journey into coaching was inspired by her own experiences and challenges.-The importance of self-care and health in maintaining mental clarity is crucial.-Diane aims to build a community of women supporting each other in leadership.VISIT  Website: eloquententrepreneur.com  Instagram: instagram.com/eloquententrepreneur  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindamackiecreative  CREDITS Guest: Diane LloydWebsite: http://www.dianelloyd.comHost: Linda Mackie  Website: https://www.lindamackie.ca/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindamackiecreative/Production: Keenlii – keenlii.com  Producer: Barry Keegan – linkedin.com/in/barrykeegan  SUBSCRIBE & SUPPORT  If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe and leave a review on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube. Your feedback helps bring more thoughtful conversations into the world.ABOUT THE SHOW  The Eloquent Entrepreneur is a podcast where I chat with my clients and changemakers alike—from across Canada and beyond—about the work they do, the stories that have shaped them, and the impact they’re making. Because making a difference just starts with showing up—and these conversations remind us just how empowering that can be.

In this episode of The Eloquent Entrepreneur podcast, I sit down with Shelley Essery—founder of The Empowered Estate and author of The Executor’s Survival Guide. We talk about why executor planning is more than just paperwork, how she helps families preserve love and legacy, and the community she’s building to make these conversations easier.KEY TAKEAWAYS  - Why proactive planning matters for every family- How her binder and workshops help executors and loved ones- Real stories of transformation from her clients- How to start the conversation—even if your family is resistantVISIT  Website: eloquententrepreneur.com  Instagram: instagram.com/eloquententrepreneur  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindamackiecreative  CREDITS Guest: Shelley EsseryInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_empowered_estate/Website: https://theempoweredestate.caHost: Linda Mackie  Website: https://www.lindamackie.ca/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindamackiecreative/Production: Keenlii – keenlii.com  Producer: Barry Keegan – linkedin.com/in/barrykeegan  SUBSCRIBE & SUPPORT  If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe and leave a review on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube. Your feedback helps bring more thoughtful conversations into the world.ABOUT THE SHOW  The Eloquent Entrepreneur is a podcast where I chat with my clients and changemakers alike—from across Canada and beyond—about the work they do, the stories that have shaped them, and the impact they’re making. Because making a difference just starts with showing up—and these conversations remind us just how empowering that can be.

In this episode of The Eloquent Entrepreneur, I sit down with Julie Marrast, author and TEDx speaker, to explore the real story behind her work, purpose, and the impact she’s making.We talk about emotional healing, parenting with intention, the courage to feel, and how Julie built her path forward, guided by self-awareness, creativity, and deep personal growth. This episode is filled with honest stories, practical tools, and a quiet kind of hope.If you’re feeling overwhelmed, navigating family dynamics, or searching for a deeper connection with yourself, this one’s for you.Listen now and learn more about Julie’s work: parentingthroughfeeling.comKEY TAKEAWAYSEmotional release is a natural, powerful way to process stress and traumaParenting with connection starts by feeling your own emotions firstYou don’t need a perfect “village”—you can build support from the ground upSelf-doubt is part of the process, especially for creatives and caregiversHealing family patterns often starts with one person deciding to do things differentlyThe courage to feel is what unlocks clarity, creativity, and connectionVISIT  Website: eloquententrepreneur.com  Instagram: instagram.com/eloquententrepreneur  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindamackiecreative CREDITS Guest: Julie MarrastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/parentingthroughfeeling/Website: https://www.parentingthroughfeeling.com/Host: Linda Mackie  Website: www.lindamackie.caLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindamackiecreative/Production: Keenlii – keenlii.com  Producer: Barry Keegan – linkedin.com/in/barrykeegan  SUBSCRIBE & SUPPORT  If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe and leave a review on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube. Your feedback helps bring more thoughtful conversations into the world.ABOUT THE SHOW  The Eloquent Entrepreneur is a podcast where I chat with my clients and changemakers alike—from across Canada and beyond—about the work they do, the stories that have shaped them, and the impact they’re making. Because making a difference just starts with showing up—and these conversations remind us just how empowering that can be.

In this episode of The Eloquent Entrepreneur, I sit down with Peter Eastwood, a creative visionary, photographer, and lifelong mentor, to explore the real story behind his work, purpose, and the impact he’s making.We talk about finding unexpected family, rebuilding in the wake of crisis, the long game of giving back, and how Peter built his path forward—guided by instinct, care, and deep personal connection. This episode is filled with meaningful moments, gentle wisdom, and the kind of clarity that comes from a life fully lived.If you’re building something of your own, working with others in a meaningful way, or just needing a little reminder of what’s possible when people show up with purpose—this one’s for you.Listen now and learn more about the Sri Lankan eco lodge project: petereastwood.caQUOTE HIGHLIGHT "We met Wagisha in 2009, and I’ve grown to love him like a son," said Peter. "Now, Philip and I are surrogate grandparents to his children."TAKEAWAYS - Purpose isn’t something you plan—it’s something you live. - One small connection can shape your future. - Showing up with care is more powerful than you think.- Education is crucial for empowering future generations.- Community projects can have lasting impact.- Personal challenges can inspire greater empathy.- Staying connected to the world is essential for growth.- Every small contribution can lead to significant change. CHAPTERS00:00 Empowering Everyday Change Makers02:25 The Sri Lankan Project: A Journey of Connection12:10 Resilience and Rebuilding After the Tsunami19:53 A Life of Diverse Experiences and Lessons Learned30:15 The Uganda Project: Building Community and Hope32:33 The Impact of Special Needs Initiatives in Uganda35:05 Transformative Experiences Through Photography38:24 Long-Term Community Development and Education42:49 Overcoming Challenges and Staying Inspired50:10 The Importance of Education for Future Generations54:04 A Glimpse into Sri Lanka's Natural BeautyPETER'S GOFUNDMEgofundme.com/f/us-rebuild-a-lodge-for-a-sustainable-future-in-sri-lankaVISIT Website: eloquententrepreneur.com Instagram: instagram.com/eloquententrepreneur CREDITS Host: Linda MackieWebsite: www.lindamackie.caLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindamackiecreative Production: Keenlii – keenlii.com Producer: Barry Keegan – linkedin.com/in/barrykeegan SUBSCRIBE & SUPPORT If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe and leave a review on Spotify, Apple, or YouTube. Your feedback helps bring more thoughtful conversations into the world.ABOUT THE SHOW The Eloquent Entrepreneur is a podcast where I chat with my clients and changemakers alike—from across Canada and beyond—about the work they do, the stories that have shaped them, and the impact they’re making. Because making a difference just starts with showing up—and these conversations remind us just how empowering that can be.

Special Guest Shannon MacFarlane is most certainly my kindred spirit with a shared passion for animals and creating space for people to feel safe and loved. A compassionate human, mother, grief enthusiast, artist, and photographer, Shannon specializes in grief photography and painting where she documents the stories of families experiencing long-term medical treatment, hospice, end-of-life care, and death care - for both humans and non-human family members alike. Shannon shares her own personal journey of loss and getting to her happy place of witnessing and documenting these not-so-happy histories in people's lives that perhaps others daren't go.  Her impact is deep and far-reaching in the healing process and it was such a pleasure to chat with her.  Visit Shannon at Slobbered Lens

As a Fractional Chief Growth Officer, diverse entrepreneur, and man of many talents, Trevor Turnbull serves awe.some business leaders (and their teams) to drive scalable growth and believes his purpose is to support conscious, creative seekers to share their stories with the intent on inspiring others to share theirs!  His 15+ years of experience in digital marketing has set him up with over 10,000 hours of knowledge to help amplify the voices of people who want to be part of the much-needed positive change in the world.  He's empowered over 26,000 people with his online client acquisition training, coaching and mentoring and has shared his personal story in various publications including Forbes, Entrepreneur, Time, Money and Business Insider.   In our conversation, Trevor shares his inspiring story and wisdom of what it means to get comfortable with the uncomfortable, to embrace and even love the ups and downs of growth, and to make the conscious choice to see the greatest version of himself and everyone so that we can best tap into the unlimited possibilities that are truly in alignment with our why for our greatest impact. Visit Trevor at Trevor Turnbull Trevor's Story Video Article in Entrepreneur Magazine

Having written web copy for the Canadian Space Agency, speeches for Cabinet Ministers, and countless business owners, families, and individuals, Shannon has a great talent and passion for telling human stories with impact. Shannon shares her story of how this work became her mission to help people express themselves through the written word - from personal biographies to websites to special occasion speech writing.  By marrying her love of writing with that of client service, she provides her clients with meaningful messages to amplify their voice for milestone moments -  wedding vows, toasts, retirement celebrations or a loving goodbye for a celebration of life. Shannon's innate wisdom and empathy in her creative process and the writing itself often help bring a sense of inner peace, letting go from a loss or painful experience, accomplishment, joy, and virtually everything in between for her clients. A great quote for the ages and what sums up her mission - 'Sometimes we have to find our voice first before we realize we have something to say...that's how we change the world.' Visit Shannon at Centrepiece Writing Studio

Dr. Kim Foster is an MD turned business coach helping health and wellness professionals build successful coaching businesses and then, in turn, go out into the world and spread the 'Wellness Revolution" for the greatest impact. Kim is a shining example of what an everyday changemaker is all about, turning her passion and talent into a successful business that makes an impact on her clients and the world. In our conversation, we learn about how she made the transition from a practicing doctor to a successful business coach and what it took for her to bring her vision to life in a methodical and systematic way. Her simple yet powerful advice to 'just start' is the reason her vision has come to fruition and inspires her every day to keep growing a business that is not only rewarding and meaningful and creates freedom and abundance for her and her family, but that actually makes a tangible difference. Visit Kim at Dr. Kim Foster

Carmel Ecker is a single parent on a mission to empower other single parents to live a life without limits. On the show, we talk about her journey from writer, reporter, graphic designer and the path that lead her to her new passion as a coach and someone who lives by example. You'll be inspired as you learn about both challenges and triumphs Carmel has experienced as a single parent, navigating the world of being both a mom and an entrepreneur that has brought her to a place of fulfillment and joy in the everyday. Carmel is a true testament to having it all if you so choose and is an incredible teacher in helping you get there! Visit Carmel at Speak Now Coaching

Colleen Wynia is a “Reset Your Vibe” Vision Coach, Spiritual Intuitive and Holistic Health Educator guiding women and heart-centered men in business through navigating life after loss, weathering life’s storms, and ever-changing landscape. She helps her clients transform their lives through 1:1 private consultations drawing from Massage & Energy Bodywork, Transformational Coaching & Breathwork, Grief Counsel, Spiritual Guidance & Spirit Communication with Loved Ones, Grief & Loss counsel, Breathwork, Nutritional Wellness. Colleen also shares about her 5 Point Star System as part of her upcoming program called Crystallize Your Vision designed for entrepreneurs and creative visionaries to revitalize your life’s purpose and better navigate life’s storms by tapping into your intuitive brilliance and magnetically attract more vibrant health, love, money & magic. As a client of hers, I can attest to her amazing healing hands and spiritual intuition, and wisdom! Visit Colleen at Colleen Wynia

Sandy Dow and I talk about the ways you can care for your nervous system and your soul and better manage the effects of stress and anxiety. Sandy walks me through a simple exercise to help ease anxiety for more calm and peace that you can practice anytime, anywhere. Sandy is a trauma-informed coach, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, author of the book Thriving in Chaos, and creator of her proven coaching method The Dow Effect. Her over forty years of experience in health care, addiction, youth mentorship, and performance coaching for artists and entrepreneurs providing guidance and education to people around the world couldn't be as important and as relevant as it is now as we all strive to transition through the stress and anxiety of the pandemic and our ever-changing world. Visit Sandy at Sandy Dow

Lesia D. Kohut is a spiritual practitioner and self-proclaimed 'soul excavator' supporting her clients through the mindful, compassionate, and loving work of digging through and unearthing limiting beliefs, revealing Life’s most valuable treasure in the process - the Infinite Power, Creativity, and Resilience of one's True Self! We chat in-depth about Lesia's unique journey into quantum physics and how our thoughts, feelings, and beliefs create our reality and more! Visit Lesia at Lesia Kohut

For Ame-Lia Tamburrini of Hum Consulting, all things are connected, and we humans are no exception. Ame-Lia shares her personal journey of how she came to find her voice and purpose in inspiring and facilitating meaningful dialogue for the purpose of increasing our sense of interconnection with each other and the world in order to create more harmony, unity, and momentum in our communities. Not an episode you want to miss! You will come away with a yearning to create and nurture more meaningful and harmonious conversations and connections and to find and use your voice for positive change. Visit Ame-Lia at HUM Consulting

Tyler Hoffman, owner of OnPoint Employee Benefits is a true inspiration on how businesses can seamlessly give back to their communities without breaking the bank. Having grown up in the small town of Qualicum Beach, BC, and having the entire community support him as he pursued a career as a professional Baseball Umpire, he always felt a connection to community programs. That's why 2% of their net profits are invested back into community programs and organizations focused on conservation, sustainability, and youth development. So when businesses partner with him, they really are partnering with the community. OnPoint is also pending B Corporation status, which is a rare and certified seal of approval of a company making an impact. Visit Tyler at On Point Benefits Learn about B Corporation

A woman who walks her talk, Pamela Thompson is a #1 Best Selling Author, International Speaker, Global Health & Management Consultant and Facilitator and Leader in the realm of Feminine Leadership. Pamela shares how we as everyday changemakers can take small steps to make an impact in what you're passionate about and join the growing wave of 'wavemakers' in making our world a better place. Visit Pamela at Pamela Thompson Female Wave of Change (FWOC) Canada

Laureen Nowlan-Card is a Transformational Life Coach and Founder and Host at Women Leading Change Podcast. Laureen specializes in empowering women to lead for change and thrive in all areas of their life, especially after trauma and to reflect back to them how magnificent and powerful they actually are and can be. Visit Laureen at Laureen Nowlan-Card

Yvonne Hogenes is a serial entrepreneur whose passion is empowering and liberating women of all shapes and sizes through her bra and undergarment businesses. I guess it's not hard to believe that the first undergarment companies were originally run by men and only a few sizes (and shapes) existed! Listen to Yvonne and how she talks about how her passion ignited and what she has been able to create and provide for women in the modern age as well as her other philanthropic ventures. Yvonne is Owner-Operator at Firma Energywear, Owner-Operator at TAB Custom-Fitted Bras, and Owner-Operator at Malary's Fashion Network and I'm so happy to share our talk with you! Visit Yvonne at Firma Energy Wear