Exception Seekers

In this episode of Exception Seekers, Jacklyn Frias shares an honest and deeply personal conversation about the transition into motherhood, identity shifts, and her experience with postpartum depression.Before becoming a mom, Jacklyn describes a structured, confident life rooted in routine, fitness, and a clear sense of self. But after the birth of her first child, she found herself navigating an unexpected and isolating struggle with postpartum depression, one that challenged both her personal identity and professional beliefs as a therapist and trainer.Through her journey, Jacklyn reflects on the limitations of “prescribed paths” to health and happiness, and how lived experience reshaped her perspective on empathy, support, and what it truly means to meet people where they are.A major turning point came through practicing self-compassion, not as a checklist item, but as a deeply felt, embodied experience of validating her own emotions. She shares how this simple but powerful shift became a cornerstone of her healing.The conversation also explores the ongoing process of redefining identity in motherhood, the often-unspoken grief that accompanies major life transitions, and the pressure many women feel to appear “okay” while silently struggling.Jacklyn now brings this lived experience into her work, fostering spaces rooted in authenticity, compassion, and real human connection—reminding others that they are not alone.Important MessagesLived experience changes how we show up for others: What once felt like “just do it” advice evolved into deeper empathy. Understanding someone’s reality requires more than logic - it requires context and compassion.Postpartum depression can be invisible: Even as a therapist, Jacklyn didn’t immediately recognize it in herself. Many people mask their struggles while appearing “fine” on the outside and often what we need most is to feel seen and understood - not fixed or redirected.Self-compassion is a skill, not a slogan: True self-compassion goes beyond “being nice to yourself;” it’s about deeply acknowledging your reality the way you would for someone you love. Reframing how we speak to ourselves, by imagining how we’d support a friend, can be a powerful starting point.Identity shifts in motherhood are complex and ongoing: Becoming a parent isn’t just an addition to life; it’s a transformation that often involves grief, growth, and redefinition. From changes in identity to unmet expectations, there is a continuous process of grieving versions of life that no longer exist

In this episode, we sit down with Emily Beauchamp, a full-spectrum doula and founder of Growing Together Doula Services. Emily shares how her own experiences with pregnancy, postpartum struggles, and breastfeeding challenges led her to pursue a career supporting families through the entire perinatal journey.We explore what a full-spectrum doula actually does, from fertility and pregnancy to birth, postpartum, and grief and loss. Emily explains how doulas help bridge important gaps in care, like providing education, emotional support, and practical guidance that many parents don’t receive within the healthcare system.The conversation also dives into maternal mental health, the realities of postpartum life, and why the idea of “it takes a village” is more important than ever. Emily highlights how small acts of support, like bringing a meal or simply showing up, can dramatically impact a parent’s wellbeing and the health of families and communities.This episode is an honest and compassionate look at the transition into parenthood, the invisible work of caregiving, and how we can all play a role in supporting new parents.Important Messages“You don’t know what you don’t know:” Many parents aren’t aware of the questions to ask during pregnancy and birth. Doulas help provide education about options, resources, and decision-making. Seeking support is actually a powerful way to build the support system families need.The biggest gap is often postpartum support: While much focus is placed on birth, the postpartum period can be the most challenging and long-lasting stage, yet many families feel unprepared and unsupported. Modern families often lack the intergenerational and community support that historically helped new parents. Small acts of support matter: Simple things, like bringing food, helping with errands, offering practical help, can significantly improve maternal mental health, relationships, parenting, and the emotional well-being of other children in the home.

In this episode, Colleen sits down with Jarvis Strong, Executive Director of the Escarpment Corridor Alliance, to explore the winding path that led him to a meaningful career in conservation leadership.Jarvis shares how his journey was anything but linear, moving through multiple roles and periods of uncertainty before finding work that truly aligns with his values. He reflects on the power of mentorship, the impact of someone believing in you at a pivotal moment, and how building strong relationships has shaped both his personal growth and professional direction.The conversation highlights the importance of connection, not just in career development, but in cultivating confidence, belonging, and self-worth. Jarvis speaks candidly about early struggles with self-esteem, the turning points that shifted his trajectory, and why finding work that “ticks the boxes” in its purpose, impact, and sustainability matters more than chasing titles or retirement countdowns.For young people (and the adults who support them), this episode is a reminder that careers don’t have to follow a straight line, mentorship can be life-changing, and believing in someone might be the spark that changes everything.Important MessagesBelief can be transformative: Some of life’s most powerful learning happens outside the classroom, and when someone chooses to believe in you, it can shift your entire sense of self-worth and direction.Meaningful work looks different for everyone: Career paths are rarely linear, and sometimes we need to meander to find something that aligns with our values. Growth often comes through experimentation and risk.Relationships are foundational: Learning how to connect with people from different backgrounds builds resilience and belonging, and folks who have worked at camp are particularly skilled at this – those “camp skills” really transfer further than you think. Camp leadership, youth work, and community involvement build valuable lifelong competencies.

In this episode, Colleen is joined by Amanda Lamb (Pine River Institute) for a deep, thoughtful conversation about anxiety, emotional regulation, and resilience through a developmental lens.Rather than treating anxiety as something to eliminate or “fix,” this conversation reframes anxiety as a capacity that develops over time, shaped by relationships, expectations, culture, and lived experience. Using clear developmental analogies, the discussion explores how children and adolescents learn to manage anxiety, and why so many young people (and adults) are struggling right now.The episode also offers practical, compassionate guidance for parents, educators, and professionals supporting anxious youth, with a strong emphasis on attunement, co-regulation, and building distress tolerance instead of avoidance.Important MessagesConsidering anxiety on a developmental framework: Much like motor skills, anxiety regulation develops in stages; these stages are both sequential and flexible, and regression under stress is normal. Many young people haven’t “failed” to regulate anxiety, they may simply not have learned the skill yet.Early development begins with adults and transitional objects: Infants rely entirely on caregivers to regulate distress, while toddlers begin managing anxiety with external supports like stuffies, blankets, and soothers.School-age children and adolescence begin to self-regulate: School introduces opportunities to build distress tolerance and social regulation without caregivers or transitional objects. Increased screen time and reduced in-person interaction interfere with this process, and many adolescents lack consistent co-regulating relationships outside their families.Supporting anxious teens: We need to rethink age-based expectations (age is “just a number;” support should be based on developmental capacity, not chronological age). We need to see a young person accurately, not through grades, age, or expectations.We can build capacity through responsibility: Chores are a powerful, evidence-based tool for building resilience that introduce manageable, tolerable discomfort; repetition builds confidence and distress tolerance.

This podcast episode features an in-depth conversation with Alhan Rahimi, a translator, interpreter, author, and educator, who shares about her personal and professional journey across languages, cultures, and countries. Alhan shares how her passion for languages led her from translation into interpreting, higher education in England, and eventually into community-building through YouTube, courses, and children’s books.She discusses the realities of interpreting work—especially the differences between consecutive and conference interpreting—and the isolation that can come with freelance language work. To address gaps in interpreter education (particularly Arabic–English), she began creating real-life interpreting content online and is now developing formal courses to support interpreters at different stages of their careers.Beyond her professional life, the conversation explores multilingual parenting, cultural identity, and the emotional importance of language as a connection to ancestry, family, and heritage. Alhan reflects on raising children across cultures, preserving Persian language and culture, and navigating identity while living in Canada.The episode also delves into mindset, risk-taking, and confidence. Alhan reflects on her academically driven upbringing, the impact of her parents’ trust, and a pivotal year where she pushed herself, leading to national academic recognition and a full scholarship. She connects these experiences to her current philosophy: when an idea appears, it’s worth acting on it, trusting that effort is never wasted.Important MessagesLanguage is more than communication: Language is a bridge between generations, cultures, and identities. It’s important to maintain because losing a heritage language can mean losing deep family connections.Gaps create opportunities: A lack of Arabic–English interpreting resources motivated Alhan to create real-world examples and educational content. Sharing imperfect, authentic practice helps learners more than polished theory alone.Community reduces isolation: Freelance interpreters often work alone, and so Alhan has worked to develop community spaces that provide colleagues to continue their learning beyond formal education.Effort builds confidence: Past experiences of doing hard things become internal proof that future challenges are manageable. Effort is never wasted, even when outcomes are unexpected.

In this episode of Exception Seekers, Colleen talks with Kim Hopkins, Executive Director at Lives in the Balance, about the Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) model developed by Dr. Ross Greene. Kim explains how CPS offers a compassionate, trauma-informed, and neurodiversity-affirming approach to supporting children who struggle to meet expectations—especially in schools and homes.Kim highlights the importance of collaboration instead of control, emphasizing that traditional punitive or reward-based methods often increase stress and disconnection. In contrast, if we can focus on understanding a child’s perspective, identifying unmet needs, and working together to develop mutually satisfactory solutions, we will see more success. The conversation touches on why kids “do well if they can,” and how language and mindset shape outcomes for both adults and children.Kim also shares a deeply personal story about how witnessing and experiencing the harm of restraint-based practices motivated her to advocate for safer, more humane, and effective approaches. She discusses the ongoing global expansion of CPS, new initiatives such as a parent platform, and Dr. Greene’s forthcoming book The Kids Who Are Not Okay, which focuses on transforming educational systems to better support vulnerable students.Important Messages“Kids do well if they can:” When children struggle, it’s not due to a lack of will but a lack of skill. The goal is to identify what’s getting in their way, not to punish them.Trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming: CPS respects that people think differently and may access skills differently. It’s not about “fixing” a child, it’s about supporting their functioning and happiness.Schools need alternatives: Teachers often rely on outdated training; small introductions to CPS concepts (like “find your sympathetic ear”) can open minds to new approaches.Resources mentionedLives in the BalanceCollaborative & Proactive Solutions

This episode is a heartfelt dive into the world of youth mental health, relationships, and the brain. Dr. Jean Clinton shares about how love, connection, and understanding can shape young minds, way more than we often realize. We talk about practical ways to support kids and teens, from connecting before correcting, to being mindful of relationships and context in teaching and counselling.Dr. Clinton highlights the importance of relationships, connection and context; it’s not just about behaviour intervention, it’s about listening, empathy, and building meaningful relationships that truly help kids thrive. Important MessagesConnect before you correct: Kids respond better when they feel understood and supported first, rather than immediately “fixed.”Love builds brains: Relationships and emotional safety are just as important for development as academics or therapy techniques.Context matters: Kids’ behaviours make more sense when you consider their relationships, environment, and past experiences.Collaborative dialogue is powerful: Sharing experiences and learning together benefits both adults and children.Practical, small steps count: Simple, consistent acts of connection make a huge difference over time.

This podcast episode features a deep, reflective conversation with Carmen Theobald of Horse Sense North, focusing on the creation and impact of their equine-assisted programs for first responders and public safety personnel. Carmen shares how horses provide a grounded, non-judgmental presence that helps people reconnect with safety, embodiment, and authentic emotion. The discussion touches on the unique design of their five-day intensive program, the importance of community and relational safety, and the program’s growing support—including full funding for OPP members and emerging pathways for others.Carmen also opens up about her own personal journey: leaving Montreal at 18, following a nontraditional path, struggling to trust her instincts, and finding profound meaning in her relationship with horses. She describes surviving a traumatic event in a classroom, the way that proximity to death reshaped her sense of purpose, and how this informs both her life and her work. The episode closes with a reflection on courage, strength, vulnerability, and living in alignment with one’s deeper truth.Important MessagesHorses offer a unique pathway to regulation and healing: Horses respond to people as they truly are - not their uniforms, roles, or titles. Their presence helps individuals feel safe, seen, and connected, often without needing to revisit traumatic content.Community across roles matters” Bringing together different first responders fosters understanding “beyond the uniform;” their shared humanity becomes clearer when hierarchy and labels fade.Carmen’s personal story informs her work: A life-altering event involving hiding from danger taught her a profound acceptance of mortality. This experience fuels her dedication to living fully and helping others do the same. Her unusual life path guided largely “by the horses,” required courage and trust in unconventional choices.The heart of the work is strength + vulnerability: Carmen emphasizes the paradox of holding both simultaneously, and how horses model this balance every day, inviting humans to do the same.

In this chat with Kelly Mahler, a leading expert on interoception, we dive into what interoception really means and why it’s such a game-changer. Kelly explains how interoception is about tuning into the signals inside our bodies — like hunger, thirst, heart rate, and emotions — and how understanding these can totally change the way we relate to ourselves and others.We hear about how this awareness is especially powerful for kids and families, helping them move away from traditional compliance-based approaches that can feel controlling or punitive. Instead, Kelly champions a gentler, collaborative way where kids learn to recognize what their bodies need to manage challenges and build resilience.The conversation also touches on some of the resistance people face when trying to shift away from old methods, but Kelly reminds us that it’s not about chaos — structure and expectations are still super important, just balanced with empathy and curiosity about what’s really going on beneath the surface.One exciting highlight is Kelly’s upcoming kids’ book series on interoception, co-written with her daughter, that invites kids to explore their body signals through experiments and stories, making the science of interoception accessible and engaging.Overall, the interview leaves us with a fresh perspective on how paying attention to our internal experiences can lead to healthier relationships, better emotional regulation, and a more compassionate approach to parenting and teaching.Key TakeawaysInteroception = Internal body awareness: It’s the sense of what’s happening inside your body — hunger, temperature, emotions, and more. Interoception-based approaches promote safe, collaborative boundaries, so instead of blaming kids for difficult behavior, by asking “What’s going on inside your body?” we can help open a door to understanding and support.Moving beyond compliance: Traditional “follow the rules” approaches can miss what kids really need; listening to their body signals helps build resilience and cooperation. Structure still matters, it’s not about “no rules,” but about flexible expectations that respect a child’s bodily experiences.

This episode features a reflective and deeply engaging conversation with Olivia Scobie. The conversation explores systemic issues in mental health care, particularly related to parenting and perinatal support. Olivia shares insights from her academic research, professional practice, and personal experience, including how her work with incarcerated mothers, her sociological background, and her own journey as a parent shaped her approach to perinatal mental health.The discussion emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed, community-based care, the power of choice in mental health services, the intergenerational nature of healing, and the societal pressures modern parents face. The episode also highlights creative programming like book clubs and listening circles that foster connection, reflection, and peer support.Important MessagesRethinking mental health access: Funding is a major barrier to high-quality, accessible mental health care. Olivia argues that people should have choice (in therapist, modality, frequency, and location of care) rather than being funneled into rigid systems like "6 sessions of CBT". Current policies do not reflect the diverse mental health needs of families and communities.Community-based supports work: Programs like book clubs and listening circles create space for shared learning and reflection. These supports empower both professionals and community members and help build local capacity for perinatal mental health.Parenting under pressure: Across diverse populations, including incarcerated mothers, the internal struggle around being a “good mom” is a common theme. Guilt, shame, and societal expectations are pervasive, regardless of background or circumstance.Intergenerational healing happens in steps: Transformation doesn’t need to be completed in one generation. Healing is a relay where each generation picks up a piece (like from anxiety, food policing, or body image issues) and moves the needle forward. This mindset offers compassion and perspective, especially for parents trying to do better with limited models or resources.

In this episode of Exception Seekers, Jesse shares insights into the start-up of his casting company, highlighting the importance of unconditional support and how it enables risk-taking and growth. The discussion explores themes of privilege, resilience, community connection, and the value of creating safe “landing spaces” for people to experiment and develop. Jesse emphasizes the human side of the industry and the importance of authentic conversations that foster understanding, connection, and support, to deepen representation on the screen.Important MessagesCreating spaces for authentic expression: Jesse emphasizes the responsibility of casting directors to create opportunities for people to share their feelings and experiences, which helps build resilience, community, and representation.Human connection over industry: Despite being about casting and the arts, the core of Jesse Griffiths Casting is about human connection, community, and how people get to where they are through relationships and shared experiences.Starting small: When Jesse began his casting company, the practical needs were simple (like a laptop or a logo) - beginnings often don’t require huge resources, but rather the right support and encouragement. Jesse underscores how having a solid support system—financial or emotional—provides a crucial landing space that allows people to take risks and pursue their passions without the fear of complete failure.Privilege awareness: Jesse shares his strong awareness that not everyone has the same safety net, and this privilege should not be taken for granted. He furthers this perspective to include the responsibility of casting directors to carefully consider the projects they take part in, and their role in shaping on-screen representation.Resources MentionedJesse Griffiths Casting (JGC) - Do Better Jesse Griffiths (he/him) After over a decade as a film, TV, and theatre actor, Jesse pivoted to a career in casting, founding Jesse Griffiths Casting (JGC). His focus is championing inclusion and diversity in the casting process.Dedicated to nurturing the next generation of artists, Jesse has taught at colleges and universities across Canada as well as countless other private institutions. He leads a monthly workshop for Toronto’s BIPOC community and serves as a mentor at the Canadian Film Centre’s Actors Conservatory.Jesse is a member of the Casting Society of America (CSA) the Casting Directors Society of Canada (CDC) and sits on the professional advisory committees for Seneca College, George Brown College, and Toronto Metropolitan University. He serves on the boards of the CDC, the Toronto Gay Hockey Association (TGHA), and Buddies in Bad Times Theatre—the world’s longest-running queer theatre.A proud recipient of the ACTRA Toronto Sandi Ross Award, Jesse holds a BFA in Theatre Performance from Toronto Metropolitan University.

In this thoughtful conversation, Brendan Madden, a passionate leader in outdoor education and risk management, reflects on his career journey, current work, and evolving perspectives on environmental stewardship, community resilience, and youth engagement. Brendan discusses the transformative power of nature-based experiences—both for mental health and for building stronger communities in the face of climate change and societal disconnection.Brendan shares insights from his involvement in wilderness programs, youth climate action initiatives, and his master’s research on emergency preparedness. He emphasizes the need for proactive, community-led approaches to disaster response and speaks to the emotional and psychological benefits of being meaningfully engaged during crises. The discussion also touches on Indigenous worldviews, the importance of volunteering, and the quiet but powerful impact of mentors.With warmth and humility, Brendan describes his own growth, the value of listening to your intuition when systems feel “off,” and how small steps can lead to meaningful change. Important MessagesNature as a healing force: Outdoor experiences provide grounding and mental clarity, especially for young people navigating climate anxiety. Reconnecting with nature supports not only personal well-being but also helps reestablish community bonds fractured by events like the pandemic.Mental health and climate action are deeply linked: Youth experiencing climate grief need spaces to process complex emotions. Programs that combine nature exposure, peer connection, and creative action are powerful tools for building resilience.Preparedness over panic: Brendan highlights the importance of building local, volunteer-led emergency response teams. He cites successful models like Nova Scotia’s disaster volunteer network and his involvement with his local emergency services group. These networks provide both practical response capacity and mental health benefits through agency and connection.Mentors don’t have to be Dumbledore: Brendan shares how meaningful mentorship sometimes comes in fleeting but profound interactions. Role models aren’t always formal—they might just be people living bravely in their own skin.Learning from Indigenous worldviews: Indigenous perspectives frame land as a place of safety and connection, not as something to be “conquered.” This shift in mindset—toward reverence and relationality—has transformed Brendan’s approach to outdoor education.Change takes time—and a bit of politics: Enacting change isn’t always about big gestures. It’s about consistent small steps, reading the room, and learning how to bring others along with you. Speaking your truth matters but so does knowing how and when to speak it.Resources mentionedWilderness Climate Action LabConnect with BrendanBrendan Madden (MA candidate)Brendan is embarking on a new career in disaster and emergency management. He was active in outdoor adventure education for many years and held leadership positions at Outward Bound Canada and the National Outdoor Leadership School (NOLS-USA). He is an internationally recognized thought leader in outdoor safety and risk management and is a member of the steering committee of the Wilderness Risk Management Conference. Brendan is a founding member of the Wilderness Climate Action Lab, a volunteer organization dedicated to strengthening the resilience of outdoor programs to climate change. Brendan is finishing an MA in Disaster and Emergency Management at Royal Roads University, with a thesis focus on wildfire evacuation communication for outdoor adventure groups.

In this podcast with Jalynn Bosley, founder and director of ALIVE Outdoors, we explore the evolution and impact of ALIVE’s outdoor experiential education programs, particularly how they foster resilience, personal growth, and mental wellness in youth through outdoor experiences.Jalynn reflects on her personal journey, and how her upbringing, travel, and willingness to follow her inner compass led her to forge a nontraditional path. Jalynn and Colleen dive into deeper topics like the importance of discomfort in personal development, the risks of over-parenting, and how today’s youth can be supported in building self-reliance and inner strength.Important Messages“Discomfort means growth is happening:” Jalynn emphasizes that discomfort is a necessary catalyst for growth, not something to avoid or rescue others from. She shares the importance of experiencing struggles, challenges, and even failures help build confidence and resilience.“We have to stop pathologizing normal life struggles. Not every challenge is trauma:” Jalynn shares her observations that well-intentioned parenting or educational approaches that shield young people from struggle may be doing more harm than good. When adults intervene Nature as a Teacher: Jalynn believes that the outdoors offers a transformative environment for learning, far beyond academics.Experiences like being cold, wet, tired, or just outside one’s comfort zone can teach self-reliance, adaptability, and confidence.Global Learning, Local Integrity: Though ALIVE has grown and sees over 6,000 students a year, Jalynn and her team are intentional about maintaining small, meaningful, high-quality experiences.Jalynn is mindful that scaling impact doesn’t mean compromising depth of connection or nuance.Listening to Your Inner Compass: Jalynn shares how following her intuition and values, even when the path wasn’t clearly marked, was central to her leadership and vision for ALIVE Outdoors. This trust I have in myself was built early, through personal experiences, travel, and reflection.“We need to build young people who can nest in a gale:” Inspired by a Margaret Mead story, Jalynn uses the metaphor of “nesting in a gale” to describe building emotional and psychological strength to withstand life’s inevitable storms.ResourcesJalynn Bosley (BEd)Jalynn believes that time in nature, guided by strong role models can keep people anchored in the real world, and help maintain balance in today’s digital era. She likes that the smoke of a campfire is embedded into most of her clothes, and even after 25 years, she still finds great joy, purpose, and reward in the work she does through ALIVE Outdoors. She is a caring listener and someone who works diligently to nurture relationships that are rooted in honesty. When she is not leading programs with students, she actively consults with schools on program development, risk management and scope and sequence planning both nationally and internationally. Jalynn has worked as an educator, facilitator, and wilderness guide for the past 30 years. She is a Certified Positive Psychology Practitioner, deeply committed to empowering young people to live with authenticity, confidence, and mindfulness, ideally guiding them toward a grounded, intentional life aligned with their core values.• ALIVE Outdoors: learn more about Jalynn and the ALIVE Outdoors program.

In this episode of Exception Seekers, Alena Luciani, varsity athlete, strength and conditioning coach, and entrepreneur, shares her journey of celebrating sport and finding confidence in her industry. From her early experiences in sport to the evolution of her approach, Alena emphasizes the importance of relatable communication and building genuine connections. She reflects on how she shifted from trying to sound “smart” to focusing on effective coaching that resonates with individuals at all levels. Through her work with Training 2XL, Alena creates a space where people feel empowered to grow, make mistakes, and be part of a supportive community. She also delves into the importance of nonverbal communication, and the need for coaches to prioritize clear, accessible instruction over technical jargon. This episode is a celebration of the transformative power of connection, both within the gym and beyond.Important MessagesTrue wisdom lies in simplifying complex ideas: True wisdom is not just about understanding complex ideas but being able to share them in a way that everyone can grasp, regardless of their experience level. Alena emphasizes that being able to break down complex concepts into simple, relatable language is key to effective coaching, communication, and connection. Confidence comes from embracing your strengths: During her time at Ohio University, Alena learned to embrace her natural strengths, like clear communication and intuitive coaching. Rather than focusing solely on academic knowledge, she realized that utilizing her strengths helped her become more effective as a coach, building trust and confidence with athletes.The community and culture you build is just as important as the program: Training 2XL is more than just about fitness — it’s a space for growth, support, and connection. Alena emphasizes that people aren’t just coming back for the programs; they’re coming for the culture and sense of belonging.Authentic communication is key: The power of authentic and clear communication is an essential foundation to connection. Alena’s willingness to be vulnerable and open with others

In this episode of Exception Seekers, Shane reflects on his personal and professional journey as an Indigenous leader, rooted in both lived experience and cultural teachings. From the loss of his brother to his time as Chief, Shane’s path has been guided by a deep commitment to healing and service. He contrasts Western clinical models with culturally grounded approaches like Feather Carriers, which emphasize community responsibility, ceremony, and Indigenous knowledge systems. For Shane, leadership is not about power or ego, but about humility, authenticity, and staying true to traditional values.A central theme throughout our conversation is the importance of uplifting youth—not just in words, but through real opportunities for leadership and voice. Shane emphasizes that young people bring unique and valuable perspectives that must be acknowledged and supported. He draws hope from his culture, daily spiritual practices, and the strength of his community, envisioning a future where youth are genuinely held up and where healing is achieved through reconnection with identity, land, and ceremony.Important MessagesIndigenous wisdom offers a powerful path to healing: Community-based, relational, and spiritual approaches—like those of Feather Carriers—resonate more deeply for many Indigenous people than Western clinical systems alone.Youth deserve more than lip service: True youth empowerment goes beyond words. It involves giving space for leadership, listening to their lived realities, and ensuring they see themselves reflected in the community’s direction.Grief can be a catalyst for transformation: Shane’s story illustrates how personal loss—especially the tragic death of a loved one—can shape a life's mission. His brother’s passing became a source of drive and purpose in suicide prevention and mental health advocacy.Humility is strength: Leadership doesn’t require self-promotion. Shane demonstrates how actions, humility, authenticity, and relationality are at the heart of Indigenous leadership.Cultural reconnection is a source of hope: Shane grounds his hope in ceremony, ancestral teachings, and daily practices, which help him stay centered through the challenges of community work and personal healing.

In this episode of Exception Seekers, Clarissa Kennedy, a passionate advocate for harm reduction and neurodivergence, shares her unique journey of personal and professional transformation. Through her work in addiction, especially in the realm of food addiction, Clarissa explores how neurodivergence can influence behaviors like disordered eating, impulsivity, and addiction. She reflects on her own experiences growing up with a different lens on the world and how she now embraces this difference to help others. Clarissa also discusses the importance of compassion and understanding for individuals who struggle with food addiction, and how breaking down the shame and stigma around these issues can lead to greater healing and personal growth.Throughout the episode, Clarissa emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, setting boundaries, and refusing to accept that limitations define who you are.Important MessagesShifting away from traditional approaches: Clarissa highlights that traditional methods in addiction treatment often don’t serve everyone, particularly those who don’t fit the mold. Her approach is to smash stigma and offer new, more inclusive solutions. Her work is a blend of harm reduction and individualized care, including psychedelic-assisted therapy, which she believes offers innovative solutions for recovery.The role of personal experience in healing: Drawing on her experiences with food addiction, Clarissa acknowledges the complex relationship many people have with food, noting that no two recovery stories are alike. She also emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries to protect oneself from triggering behaviors, using the metaphor of keeping food that acts as a bully out of the house to protect peace of mind.The power of belief in people and possibilities: Clarissa believes in the power of possibility and self-belief. She encourages others to believe in themselves and to understand that anything is possible, even when faced with challenges or overwhelming circumstances. Her entrepreneurial spirit and focus on individual potential is reflected in her work with clients, helping them find their own paths to healing without shame or judgment.Neurodiversity in the context of food addiction: Neurodivergent individuals, particularly those with ADD, have a dopamine deficiency, which makes them more vulnerable to addictive behaviors — especially with ultra-processed foods that provide dopamine spikes. Impulsivity, linked to a lack of GABA in the brain, can lead to difficulties with moderation, and this behavior can manifest in addiction-like patterns when it comes to food.The need for continued research: Clarissa encourages more research into the connection between neurodiversity, dopamine, and addiction — especially around how certain foods may affect neurodivergent individuals differently than the general population. This research can lead to more effective interventions and a greater understanding of how to treat food-related addiction in neurodivergent individuals.Resources Mentioned:Food Junkies Podcast – A podcast that discusses food addiction, including episodes with experts like Dr. Roberto Olivardia, who focuses on ADHD and eating disorders.Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy – Clarissa's current work and interest in exploring alternative, research-backed therapies to support addiction recovery.

This episode revolves around the theme of reconnecting with nature, the challenges of modern life, and how nature-based experiences, like camping, can foster personal growth, relaxation, and connection.Anne and Colleen underscore the value of nature in promoting mental well-being, the importance of flexibility and presence in our experiences, and how even small, accessible outdoor activities can provide significant moments of growth and relaxation. It’s a reminder to be adaptable, enjoy the journey, and embrace nature as a way to recharge and reset in an increasingly fast-paced world.Important MessagesNature as a learning experience: Camping and outdoor trips offer valuable lessons in adaptability, flexibility, and presence. Small moments of discomfort, such as dealing with unexpected wildlife, can become fond memories and learning opportunities.Progressive engagement with nature: Nature experiences don’t have to be extreme right away. Starting with smaller activities like car camping can be an accessible way for people (especially families) to gradually build up their comfort and skills with outdoor experiences.The importance of presence: Success in outdoor experiences isn’t about achieving a specific outcome but about being present and tuning into the needs of the moment is emphasized. Pushing too hard for a set goal can cause more stress, and the real value comes from adapting to the situation.Outdoor experiences offer the opportunity to disconnect from the speed and demands of everyday life.The joy in the simple moments: The small, often unexpected moments can become the highlights of outdoor trips, which help to emphasize the importance of embracing spontaneity and the unpredictable nature of life.

This episode, with Diana Clements, touches on several important themes around education, the role of nature, the impact of technology, and child development. Diana reflects on her personal journey, her commitment to nature-based learning, and her insights as a teacher and parent. She talks about how she has always questioned societal norms, particularly around technology and the need for outdoor learning. Diana's main focus is on the importance of children engaging with nature, as it provides them not only with physical and emotional benefits but also with life skills that can be carried into adulthood.Diana highlights her experiences with Forest Schools, emphasizing how outdoor environments encourage children to take risks and develop resilience. She also discusses the challenges she faced in transitioning from a traditional educational setting to one that prioritizes outdoor learning, especially considering the initial fears around safety.A significant part of the conversation explores Diana’s shift in perspective from believing the planet needs us to protect it, to understanding that we, as humans, need nature to thrive. She acknowledges the challenges faced by parents and teachers in navigating the complexities of modern technology, particularly the pressure to keep children safe online while also providing opportunities for growth and exploration.Important MessagesThe role of nature in child development: Diana believes nature plays a crucial role in children's physical and emotional health. Outdoor experiences help children develop resilience, decision-making skills, and independence. Nature-based learning allows children to engage in full-body, immersive experiences that are vital for their growth. Diana believes the best way to protect the environment is to help children love it. This deep connection with nature fosters a desire to protect it for future generations. As a teacher and advocate for outdoor education, Diana feels that helping children appreciate and care for the world around them is crucial for their long-term well-being.“As Safe as Necessary” vs. “As Safe as Possible”: A central philosophy discussed is the importance of balancing safety with opportunity for growth. Diana shares her initial fear of children getting hurt during outdoor play but later embraced the idea that children need to be exposed to small risks in order to develop resilience. The concept of "as safe as necessary" allows for this balance, whereas "as safe as possible" can hinder a child’s ability to learn from experiences and take risks.The need for outdoor education: Diana’s Forest School is designed to create environments where children can engage with nature freely. She emphasizes that in order to foster a sense of love and protection for the planet, children need to first experience it and develop a connection to it. Outdoor education, according to Diana, also nurtures social and emotional skills.The impact of technology in the classroom: Diana expresses concerns about the overuse of screens and technology in the classroom, especially when it comes to young children. She believes that the increased reliance on screens reduces opportunities for meaningful interaction and engagement with the physical world. This resonates with her concerns about how society's focus on technology might be limiting healthy childhood development.Resources mentioned: Unplugged Canada (https://unpluggedcanada.com/)Outside Play (https://www.outsideplay.org) The Anxious Generation, by Jonathan Haidt

In this episode, Anne and Colleen talk about the value of summer camp, particularly in shaping leadership skills, personal growth, and providing unique opportunities for young people to gain responsibility and experience. They reflect on their own experiences working at camp and the lessons they learned that continue to influence them in their personal and professional lives. The conversation touches on the development of soft skills, the importance of connection, and how camp fosters a unique sense of community. Anne and Colleen also discuss the transition from the "magic" of camp to other work environments, highlighting the contrast between the high level of responsibility and the strong sense of mission at camp compared to more traditional workplaces.This episode highlights the profound impact that summer camp can have on both the staff and the campers. It’s not just about the skills learned but about building connections, growing as individuals, and experiencing a sense of belonging and purpose. For parents, camp is a safe space for their children to develop independence while still being supported in a nurturing environment. The lessons and growth from camp remain with individuals for years to come.Important MessagesConnection over skill: The central philosophy of camp work is to "teach the camper, not the skill." Building a personal connection with campers and staff is emphasized as crucial for creating a positive impact and fostering learning.The magic of camp: The sense of community and mission-driven environment in camps creates a unique "magic" that isn't often found in other workplaces. Camp helps young people shape their values by understanding the "why" behind their actions and the work they do, fostering a deep sense of purpose that can be carried into other areas of life and work.Leadership and responsibility at camp: Working at camp, especially as a young person, provides unique leadership opportunities, such as giving and receiving feedback, planning programs, and managing responsibility. These experiences are invaluable in preparing individuals for future careers.Personal growth and development: Both staff and campers have the opportunity to develop valuable life skills, such as self-awareness, leadership, teamwork, and resilience, in a supportive and nurturing environment. These experiences go beyond hard skills and can influence personal and professional growth. The importance of camp for parents and caregivers: Camp provides parents with an opportunity to practice "letting go" and allows children to learn independence, make mistakes, and grow outside of the home environment. It also gives parents peace of mind, knowing their children are in a safe and nurturing space.Financial Resources for CampKids in Camp: https://kidsincamp.com/Amici Children’s Camp Charity: https://www.amicicharity.org/Ontario Camps Association: https://ontariocampsassociation.ca/

In this episode of Exception Seekers, therapist and educator Jake Ernst shares his insights on relational therapy, and the need for a societal shift that recognizes the critical importance of human connection. Jake encourages us to reframe how we approach mental health, especially with children, so that we can look past the idea of individual skill sets and consider mental health as a system of relationships to be nurtured. This episode touches on the impact of social media, recognizing passive versus active technology use, the myth of self-regulation, and all things in between, Jake’s humility, curiosity, and emphasis on relational context stand out as deeply humanizing and hopeful, as he shares ideas on how to build connection with young people.  Important MessagesCo-Regulation as a Foundation: Jake emphasizes that co-regulation is a prerequisite for self-regulation. Children (and adults) need safe, emotionally attuned relationships before they can regulate themselves. This idea challenges models that expect individuals, especially young kids, to "self-regulate" in isolation.Mattering matters: of the three entry points into helping kids co-regulate, Jake highlights that “mattering”- having a meaningful significance in someone's life - is important and very often missed. Jake shares ideas on how adults can help young people feel like they matter. Healing Requires a Shift from 'Fixing' to Relating: the conversation critiques cultural and therapeutic models that promote "fix the child" or "learn to regulate" approaches without acknowledging the relational, systemic, and social environments that shape those needs. Jake stresses the importance of relational health over rigid behaviour correction.Not all Screens are Created Equal: Jake shares his interest in investigating social media and technology on human development and its impact on our ability to connect with others in real life.We’re All Performing Something: Jake shares that he realized early in life that people are often "performing" roles, and liberation came from releasing himself from that pressure. It allowed him to simply be, rather than perform what he thought he should be.Resources Mentioned:Clinical Practice: Straight Up Health (https://www.straightuphealth.ca/)Podcast: This Isn’t Therapy (https://open.spotify.com/show/0gvAhpRsaI8lDip7B1Jpi9)Social Media: @mswjake