Living Your Life with Lianne Laing

This week we have one crazy roller coaster ride with mountaineer, entrepreneur, philanthropist and former runaway Shawn Dawson.Shawn became the 8th person in history to climb all seven summits of the world in under two years. He talks about his time on Everest, his passion for climbing, his experience with near death events and his desire to help others through his climbs. His story of transformation from a troublesome, jail bound, runaway kid to being awarded one of the city's "Amazing People Recipients" gives everyone a sense of purpose and the belief that one can always change for the better. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cookbook author and nutritionist Shirley Plant is in the hot seat this week. For anyone who deals with food allergies and food intolerance – this podcast is a must! Shirley takes us through the painful and frustrating timeline that people go through in figuring out what ails them. We discuss how life situations, crisis, loss, depression and our environment affect our systems and our health. For any parent looking for tips on foods to help their ADHD kids, look no further! Shirley explains how she has been able to help children and family shift their dynamics through food. She also discusses the process behind writing her two cookbooks and the inspiration behind them. Shirley's story of discovery is quite fascinating, and I hope you enjoy our discussion as much as I did. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, we sit down with Dr. Yousuf Siddiqui, a naturopathic doctor with NutriChem. We hit on a number of different topics, but we focused on digestion which he believes is the foundation of health. We discuss men’s and women’s sexual health along with the exploding world of IV therapy. IV Therapy is quickly becoming a sought after service especially when dealing with adrenal fatigue, IBS, immune function, the list goes on. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We switch gears this week and sit down with CEO and Founder of Epic Fitness and Lifestyle Stephanie Karlovits. What I love about this podcast is that we hit on so many storylines that connect with people. Climbing our own mountains, business start ups, exercise, movement, functional movement, goal setting, burnouts, the list goes on. We go through some of her favorite exercises, get a few tips on new gadgets and get the real scoop on what “functional movement” really is.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

My podcast this week is with my dear friend Séan McCann. Séan talks candidly about growing up in Newfoundland, the abuse he suffered by a priest as a teenager, the creation of Great Big Sea, his downfall with alcohol and the day he hit rock bottom. From there Séan takes us through the journey of his recovery, of facing his truth and the difficult reality of one needing to “put in the work” when it comes to living one’s truth. We talk about mental health, music as therapy and how his guitar “Old Brown” has been by his side through it all. I realized as well, through a little research that I knew more Great Big Sea songs than I thought and that hearing him play his own songs, with deep meaning, can be incredibly therapeutic. I hope you enjoy the podcast as much as I did. We all battle our own demons, but Séan puts you in a head space to want to find your peace. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

I was incredibly entertained this week while chatting with, chef, sommelier and entrepreneur, Stephen Beckta. My thinking behind bringing him in as a guest was to talk about the relationship we have with food, the food experience, the changing food industry and of course tips from a chef and sommelier. What I found, was that this award-winning restauranteur has an incredibly compelling and entertaining story. He takes us on quite the journey around the world, stopping at a few destinations, following love, women, heartbreak, wine and food. A little luck, a ton of critical failures and the passion to have his own restaurant “family” is what landed him where he is – ranked amongst Canada’s best! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, I speak with Daphne Ballard and boxing coach Scott Whitteker. Scott co-founded the Heart & Crown Presents Fight for the Cure. The event is Ottawa’s only white collar charity boxing gala. All proceeds from the night support the Ottawa Regional Cancer Foundation’s unique cancer coaching, clinical trials and ground-breaking cancer research programs. This year, marks a new era as women are stepping into the ring for the first time. Two women, in their 40’s, best friends, mothers and former teammates are going head to head. They have never boxed before nor even considered this as a bucket list item. This story becomes about stepping out of one’s comfort zone and finding the courage to try something different. While Lisa Langevin couldn’t join us for the podcast, her best friend and now boxing rival Daphne Ballard did. We dive into the training and transformation of these “every day people” into courageous boxers and hope to inspire some of you to try something different. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week’s podcast is with trainer, speaker, athlete and founder of Greco Fitness, Tony Greco. Tony has just launched his book Strong Mind, Lean Body. Despite having known Tony for almost two decades, I learned a lot about him in this podcast and how his background shaped who he would become and gave him the drive to achieve his goals. We talk about the evolution of the way people train and workout and how he shaped the incredibly popular “lean and fit” classes. His “celebrity trainer” title has given him access to new clients but the foundation has always remained the same. The way we eat, what we consume, how we train and the way we live will always shape how we look and feel. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on the podcast, we chat with Exec Health President Sanjay Shah. Sanjay was incredibly honest and forthcoming in what works with our system and where we can improve. He praises many aspects of what the Canadian government is able to provide. With that being said, he gives us an interesting perspective on how to take certain aspects into your own hands. I learned far more in this podcast than I expected too and hope you are able to ask yourself some of the same questions I asked myself when we were done.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we talk personal safety with former Canadian Spy Adam Nesrallah. He no longer works with our government agency, but has some interesting viewpoints on how we need to look after our own personal safety – from walking home at night, to creating better passwords and explaining why we are all susceptible to fraud in this digital age. I’ll be honest – some of his suggestions will have you wanting to toss him over a bridge (like switching to a flip phone) but other safety tips are great reminders for anyone. Go easy on him, he really can hurt you with his pinky finger! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week I chat with Naturopathic Doctor and the founder of “Self Love Mom” Dr. Kristy Lewis. While the title of “Self Love Mom” does come into play, this is really meant for anyone who has dealt with or is dealing with burnout, exhaustion and trying to be everywhere and pleasing everyone at all times. Something has got to give and it’s about giving ourselves permission to let some things fall through the cracks. She has some great recommendations for those currently struggling and tips on when to realize you are in trouble. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Description: My podcast this Thursday is with world renown conductor Alexander Shelley. Alex’s podcast was an inspiring conversation and I learned so much about the world of classical music. I have always felt a deep kinship with musicians, who like athletes, train and practice for hours (to the point of exhaustion) looking to become the best. It requires a deep dedication to the craft and a passion to live it. Very few make it to the top. Alexander and I talk about his unique childhood in London, why he chose conducting over playing, how music transforms us and why there is a purpose to every note on the page. Our main focus is on preparation and how it becomes the critical factor for success, not just in music or athletics but in life. His podcast comes full circle as about 6 months ago I had his wife Zoe on my podcast. Zoe spoke about her amazing experience through the casting, training, and finally shooting of Wonder Woman. At the time, she had just announced she was pregnant with their first child. As timing would have it, Alexander and I met last week to tape his podcast. The podcast was underscored by the anticipation their baby boy would arrive within the next two weeks. Their son, Sasha arrived two days later. Congrats to both Zoe and Alex! I can’t wait to meet him! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, we chat with Money Coach, Judith Cane about our relationship with money. If you are looking for investment advice for your portfolio or the next big stock to invest in – you won’t find it in the podcast, but what you will find is an honest discussion about how money influences our decisions and our relationships. Judith offers some great advice on how to start teaching our children about the concept of earning, saving and giving money. She explains why not understanding these concepts early affects our decisions later in life, our habits and our downfalls. She describes the work she does with her clients and why real cash is still the key to success. I definitely have shifted my mindset after our conversation! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On May 9th, enjoying a backyard BBQ with friends at the home of NHL player and Ottawa Senator, Cody Ceci, the unimaginable occurred and a freak accident had 24 year old Hana Engel going up in flames. Doctors and family were unsure if she would survive. She woke up from her coma four weeks after the accident to a new nightmare. While this podcast touches on the moment Hana went up in flames, we focus on her process, her treatment and her recovery. Hana shares her experience of being in her coma and how her background in yoga helped ease her way through the rehab. She is incredibly brave, vulnerable and honest in our talk... I am in awe of the talent and passion of doctors, medical advancements and technology. I hope you enjoy listening to Hana as much as I did and can take something from her messages. I definitely did. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week’s podcast with Pat Woodcock has a bit of everything. We talk about Pat’s path to the NFL and the one that eventually led back home to the CFL. He describes the change in training, attitude, nutrition and outlook as he got older. We talk about the transition out of the game and into his role as a coach and trainer. We’ve got plenty of sports stories in the first half of the podcast, and tons of tips and suggestions for your own health adjustments in the second part. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week on the podcast, I had a wake-up call. We talk hormones with Dr. Tanya Manikkham, a naturopathic doctor with Nutrichem. Our health can be attributed to a number of factors and I got quite lesson about the effects of hormones – whether a lack of them or too many of them in our bodies. Menopause of course became a big theme but we discuss overall symptoms of hormone imbalance and how it is way more common then we think (when we aren’t going through menopause). Dr. Manikkham has some great advice, tips and concerns she shares. This podcast isn’t just for women, as men are affected just as much as they age.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week we bring you on quite the journey with Sarah Roberts. The author of the 28 Day Kick The Sugar Habit has beaten more than her sugar habit. The author of Sarah Talks Food is incredibly open about her life as an alcoholic, finding sobriety and realizing each and every one of us has our own vice to battle. Outspoken with some great tools and tips for those who suffer, she made for a very interesting, emotional and educational chat. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, my guest is former Canadian and World Cup Freestyle skiing champion Elisa Kurylowitz. Her story is quite fascinating – from her quick rise on the freestyle circuit, to traveling the world representing Canada, and to failing to qualify her Olympic Year. Her life spun into an incredibly dark hole after missing the Olympic Games, from which it took her a few years to dig out. Her story is about wins and losses, losing oneself(especially to food and booze) and having the courage to crawl her way back into a new life with a new outlook. I really enjoyed our chat and her honesty. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

My guest this week is Natasha Villeneuve from Natural Food Pantry. She has been a wonderful new friend on this journey of mine and I have truly enjoyed my time with her since becoming an ambassador for the company. Our podcast focuses on everything from nutrition to supplements, what really works and what doesn't, as well as the focus on education. I love the tidbits of kitchen tips she throws in and little suggestions to make the day a little easier. Natasha, a holistic nutritionist herself also shares her own story of how food and food intolerance changed her life and her calling. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, my guest is Veronique Levesque from Molly Maid. How often should you be changing that kitchen cloth and wooden cutting board? Have you ever thrown your pillows in the washing machine? Veronique and I discuss how we care for our homes extends into our overall health. Plus of course we have some tricks of the trade which include a variety of ways dryer sheets can come in handy! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week's episode is an eye-opening discussion with pediatrician Dr. Paul. The Medical Officer of Health and Chief Executive Officer for Eastern Ontario is a frequent guest on CTV Morning Live. His four-and-a-half-page condensed resume is beyond impressive, but his passion for initiating programs that make a difference in his patients' lives is his biggest gift to medicine. For anyone looking to understand the fundamentals of health, why the formative years are so crucial and the importance of communication – this is a great listen. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, the stakes are high as REDBLACKS head coach Rick Campbell volunteers himself in the hot seat. Today's podcast is just hours before the team kicks off their home opener at TD Place. If you are looking for a roster rundown, game strategy, quarterback controversy or game plan for the year – you might be disappointed. While football is the underlying storyline, Coach Campbell is opens up about growing up moving from one city to the next, following wherever his father was coaching the game. He talks about the continuous mind games his profession demands and why the most talented player isn’t always top choice. We talk about his perspective on health, fitness and nutrition outside of the game as well as the changes required of the players still in it. I should have charged a $250.00 therapy fee, instead I’m hoping we can get in session number two over time. Best of luck with the upcoming season Coach! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

My guest in the hot seat this week is Mia St. Aubin. Mia is the founder of Parliament Hill Bootcamp (now to be known as Move Camp). She was amazing, talking candidly about her own personal struggles to find her place in the fitness industry, her beliefs and how she views her role in meeting her clients needs. There is much more to her strikingly beautiful physique then meets the eye and a hidden pain that needed to be overcome. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

My guest this week, is former NFLer, CFLer, comedian, podcaster and firefighter Mark Hatfield. I was a guest on Mark’s podcast, The Hatfield Trip, just days after I left CTV Morning Live. The experience of being in a podcast setting on his show helped solidify my desire to create my own. It had been on my wish list of things I wanted to do, and so it was quite amazing to have the roles reversed. His is the ultimate story of perseverance and never giving up on a dream – no matter how far-fetched it may seem. It’s quite an emotional journey of how this non “all-star” fulfilled a promise of making it to the big league. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week's episode is with David Segal, the co-founder of David’s Tea and Mad Radish. Our conversation was unique and encompassed both the health and wellness side of the marketplace – but also goes deeper into the life of an entrepreneur, the growth of a business and what it takes to succeed. He has some fun stories, some great analytical suggestions and some wonderful guidance for anyone thinking about launching a business or concept. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, my guest is etiquette expert Julie Blais Comeau. As the world was engulfed in the royal wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle this past weekend, it seemed fitting that this would be an ideal time to reflect on the social graces and customs, not only of royalty, but in our everyday lives. How we interact and communicate in social settings and in business dealings is an integral part of our success. It can make or break future employment, a romantic encounter and even our everyday friendships. How we are treated and how we treat others goes beyond our parent’s instructions in the school playground. We are connected more with our devices now, than we are with the people sitting across from us. Julie helps us understand the history of why it’s still important to follow some of the guidelines and helps us ensure we are putting our best foot forward.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Podcasting is a new craft for me and I am learning something new every time I’m behind the microphone. I was a sponge soaking in the information from bestselling author Jody Mitic. The soldier, turned amputee, turned reality TV star, turned politician has quite the story to tell. He was awesome, but I should have had a shorter leash. I must warn you that we hit on topics I didn’t expect, got off topic more than once and used language unbecoming for TV. It’s in need of a part two and three! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, I figured it would be quite fitting with Mother’s Day around the corner to have my mom Agnes Laing on the show. This show however, is not all about mothers and Mother's Day. My mom is a trailblazer when it comes to amateur sport and business. She has built one of the largest gymnastics facilities in the country and has touched the lives of thousands of children in the city. She has kids coming to classes whose grandparents she coached. It’s quite remarkable to see and hear the impact she has had on individuals, many of whom have gone on to excel in other sports, but more importantly with life in general. She has seen the shift over the last 45 years of the role sport plays in the lives of families. She talks about the role of a “coach” and the relationship between coach and athlete and the investment they make with one another. We also hit on what its like for coaches and athletes when they are related and trying to find balance in their home lives and on the sports stage (my mom was my coach…and therapy was needed). See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On this week's show, Nutritionist Rachel Caven joins me in studio. I will warn you, she bares all and the first five minutes of the podcast went to places I never expected. There is an enormous amount of information to take with you–especially the real reason why an apple should taste sweet to you! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

My guest today is Olympic curler Lisa Weagle. Lisa is a member of Team Homan, who were a top medal contender at this years Winter Olympic Games. It wasn’t the outcome these World Champions would have liked. We talk about the experience and the pressure going in as a medal favorite. We also hit on her love of curling and how mental and physical training became critical when she returned to the sport she loves. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In my newest podcast with Dr. Nathalie Beauchamp we discuss her new book Hack Your Health Habits. The book, which will be hitting shelves in the coming months is enormous, with 12 different sections and 60 plus chapters. Dr Beauchamp asks of her readers “Is it really possible to be at an ideal weight, have tons of energy and feel great?" Optimal health is reached when we ask the right questions, seek knowledge and take responsibility for our own health. There are misconceptions discussed within the health industry and through the media. Pain, inflammation, illness become factors in peoples daily lives and it does't need to be like this....We try and tackle as much of the book as time allows.... See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Connie Beaulieu, the founder of CU Fit Personal training and the Activate Health Expo was my guest. Connie is actually one of the people responsible for the certification of the trainers here in Canada, a job she takes quite seriously. In our time together, we discuss the regulations or (lack thereof) of the Canadian Fitness Industry. We also tackle the changes and shifts in power with the popularity of social media. What I really wanted to ask was what are the expectations one should put on the trainer they hire? If you are thinking of hiring a trainer, want to get more out of your workouts or have the aspirations to get involved in the fitness industry- then this is a must listen.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

I think in total I dressed up as Wonder Woman three times for CTV Morning Live. Twice for our Halloween shows and another for Comic Con. I have no desire to take on the role again but I will admit to being a huge fan of the movie. With that being said, I was totally taken back when I found out that Zoe Shelley, the wife of NAC Music Director Alexander Shelley, was involved in the filming. Being in a blockbuster movie had never been on Zoe’s wish list, nor had she ever envisioned herself sword fighting with her new best friends. The former cellist and IT employee took her own leap of faith that landed her an experience of a lifetime. I hope you enjoy her company as much as I did. It really is quite the thrill ride and you will love her accent! See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What I found interesting when Mayor Jim Watson came by the Extension Marketing studios for our podcast was that he joked that he was nervous. I had no political questions on the agenda, no platforms to cover, no election promises to check off and no request for an update on the LRT. I figured this was an easy home run for my former colleague. I loved him even more for saying that he was nervous, though, because he knew the focus was on wellness, balanced lifestyle, health and fitness and he didn’t want to fail miserably. Granted, he isn’t lacing up the sneakers to go for a daily run, adding protein to his balanced diet (I’m being sarcastic there) or managing 8 hours of sleep a night (he has sleep apnea). In fact, he gets an ‘F’ on all aspects. But while he hasn’t always given himself the best chance for his own health, he has made an impact for other peoples lives. We chat about a Smoke Free Ontario, athlete funding, access to recreation and the list goes on. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

No word of a lie, Korey has taught me to cook. Every single time I interviewed her on CTV Morning Live I was inspired. I left with new ideas, information and options. Her passion for food and cooking is well described in this podcast with emphasis on food intolerances, allergies and the food industry itself. You will also learn that the only things you really need in the kitchen are carrots, celery, onion and a really good knife...They are the base of everything.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

While I could have made this podcast about Chris, hockey and his life in the NHL, I really felt that what makes this story so complete and well-rounded is the partnership between him and Erin. We focus on the shifts in life and responsibility as the family grew, the game of hockey itself and how it changed over Chris’s career and how Erin adapted to every new challenge they faced. It’s about family, health, wellness and nutrition. It’s also about adapting, nurturing and adjusting to life when there are new challenges and obstacles every day. I hope you enjoy them as much as our family does. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Have you ever asked yourself how you ended up using one medication, only to start needing another to counter balance the side effects? Are you concerned that you've lost track of why you started down this road in the first place? Did a sleeping pill or a pain killer find its way into your life and now you can't seem to break its hold? In my podcast with NutriChem founder and CEO Kent MacLeod we talk about health solutions which differ from the mainstream and which challenge our indoctrinated thought process. Apologies for the quality of the audio at the beginning of the podcast! We ran into some technical difficulties. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sleep! It’s a topic of conversation anyone can get into! Whether you celebrate getting a good night’s sleep, or whether you need to vent that you in fact did not, we all have our reasons; head is spinning, babies crying, kids having nightmares, needing to pee and the list goes on. Some of the issues are temporary and we simply plow through them, others however are more serious and can have long term health effects. In this podcast, Sleep Efficiency founder Andrew Holmes hits on the importance of what he calls health hygiene. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As we make our way from A-Z and cover the story of Tocsa's transition from obese to fitness cover girl, all in her 40’s, you realize her journey is a love story. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Episode 1 by Living Your Life with Lianne Laing.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.