Epic Exchanges

It's time for the final installment of our 4-part “Choosing Ourselves” series and we're welcoming guest Dawn Smith with “Embracing the Labels” Dawn Smith describes herself as a Misfit, a Coach, an Artist, a Mom, and a Disruptor. She has a background originally in the social justice and nonprofit arts world before transitioning into counseling and coaching. Dawn is divorced, single, and super-duper passionate about disrupting outdated relationship myths... (while making time to squeeze in making churro donuts and multimedia paintings) Exchange Quotes: “The road to freedom is not through feeling good; it is through feeling true to yourself.” – Deepak Chopra “It's the fabric of who you are and how you look at the world.” - Dawn Smith “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson Exchange Links: Find Dawn at www.relationshipcoachdawn.com We are @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram Get the weekly story prompt at www.kellysniderauthor.com

It's week 3 of our 4-part “Choosing Ourselves” series and we're welcoming guest Cheri Paragi with “Paying Attention” Cheri Paragi is from Minnesota and the owner of GemMe Wands. She is married to her second husband and has two young adult daughters with special needs and medical complexities. Cheri is a firm believer in “paying it” forward both personally and professionally. In her quest to find herself again, she has come to realize that listening to her intuition, the universe and trust are key elements to her personal and professional success.  Exchange Quotes: "Advice from an owl: stay focused, be "whoo" you are, trust in a wise friend, live off the land, glide through the dark times, be observant, life's a hoot!" Ilan Shamir  "The Universe gives us all the details we need when we pause long enough to see the greatness in everything." - Laurie Wondra  Exchange Links: Find Cheri at www.gemmewands.com We are @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram Get the weekly story prompt at www.kellysniderauthor.com  

This week we highlight the second guest of our “Choosing Ourselves” series, Annette Moreau. Annette Moreau is a woman who knows what it feels like to lose herself to ALL THE STUFF OF LIFE. As a mother of two sons with significant medical challenges, she spent years overwhelmed, emotionally drained, unhappy and searching for peace. Through deep healing, personal growth, and spiritual connection, she found her way back to herself. Now, she lives with a renewed sense of purpose, joy, and clarity. She knows how to confidently feel more happiness and be in control of her life so she can always get what she wants— and she's passionate about sharing her story and knowledge, through her coaching business, to inspire others to do the same.  Exchange Quotes: "You will never be able to escape your heart. So, it's better to listen to what it has to say" – Paulo Coelho.  "You had the power all along, my dear" – Glinda the Good Witch, Wizard of Oz Exchange Links: Find Annette at www.annettemoreau.com We are @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram Get the weekly story prompt at www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week kicks off the first in our “Choosing Ourselves” series with guest Wendy Macdowall. Wendy Macdowall, mom to three sons and a bonus daughter, is a relationship coach, dv survivor, and book dragon. Wendy keeps her book hoard in Michigan where she lives with her husband Rob, two cats, and an elderly poodle. Wendy loves to go on travel adventures, to literary destinations (she has visited a LOT of castles) and more recently to visit her adorable granddaughters (she has two).  Exchange Quotes: “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” – Aristotle  “Every life is a matter of choices and the choices you make, make you.” – John Maxwell Exchange Links: Find Wendy at www.therelationshipnerd.com We are @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram Get the weekly story prompt at www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week, we welcome Dana Lee Harris to the podcast. Dana Harris was born in California, and grew up in both Hawaii and Vancouver, BC. She developed an interest in the hospitality business very early and gained front-of-house experience as a server while taking sales, marketing, business, and event management courses. Her father's hobby wine import business gave her a great introduction to the field of beverage sales, and she worked briefly with his company before it was sold to an agency that she worked with for 13 years. Subsequently, she became the Regional Manager for Robert Mondavi in 2002 and then started her own marketing, PR and events business in 2006 along with being the executive Director of the BC Hospitality Foundation for 3 years. She gives back as a volunteer on many levels... as a fitness instructor, a member of Les Dames d'Escoffier, a board member with the BC Hospitality Foundation and on several hospitality-related committees. She has been married To Dean for over 24 years and is a new grandmother of Charlie, who was named after her father. She loves to golf, workout, entertain and be entertained.  Exchange Quotes: “No matter our circumstances, no matter our challenges or trials, there is something in each day to embrace and cherish. There is something in each day that can bring gratitude and joy if only we will see and appreciate it.” – Dieter F. Uchtdorf “Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping,” – Fred Rogers “Giving thanks, expressing our gratitude to others, and giving back in even the smallest of ways all add a true richness to our lives.” – Kathy Davis Exchange Links: Join the Epic Exchanges Story Circle We are @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week, we welcome Pearl Chiarenza to the podcast.  Pearl Chiarenza is best known for helping women authentically put themselves first without guilt. Professionally, she is known as a transformational life coach, author, and speaker that helps women become the SHERO of their life. She loves empowering women to put on their "SHERO Cape" and assume the superpower of positive mindset despite any challenges life throws your way. Pearl has been married to Chuck for 35 years and is a mom of two boys Matt (forever 25) and Nate 23.  Exchange Quotes: “When you engage in people pleasing you are out of integrity with yourself, your goals, your dreams, and your life's mission.” – Eileen Anglin “Don't be afraid of losing people but be afraid of losing yourself trying to make everyone happy.” – Naguib Mahfouz Exchange Links: Take Pearl's quiz at https://pearlssurvey.com/pqquiz Head to Pearl's website: https://www.wsliving.com Connect with Pearl on Social Media @pearlchiarenza We are @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week, we welcome Derrick McManus to the podcast.  Derrick McManus was a police officer in Australia for 42 years. Many of those years were spent as part of the Special Task And Rescue, or STAR team. Similar to SWAT or Seal team, these officers were the ones called in the more difficult situations. On one of these tasks, he was shot 14 times with an automatic rifle, was close to death, but 2 years later returned to full his full duties on the team. After retiring six years ago, Derrick now works as a motivational speaker and workshop leader, talking and teaching about human durability. Exchange Quotes: “I know of no more encouraging fact than the unquestionable ability of man to elevate his life through conscious endeavour.” – Henry David Thoreau “Trauma is a fact of life. It does not, however, have to be a life sentence.” = Peter A. Levine Exchange Links: Find Derrick on his website at www.derrickmcmanus.com Connect with Derrick on social media @derrickmcmanus Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week, we welcome Pete Partin to the podcast. Pete Partin is a motivational speaker, author, and artist who overcame extreme childhood abuse, bullying, trauma, and a stroke that forced him to learn how to speak again. Pete's goal is to share his light and his story of hope and resilience with others to show how anyone can overcome challenges, pain, or trauma.  Exchange Quotes: “Survival can be summed up in three words – never give up. That's the heart of it really. Just keep trying.” – Bear Grylls “You may encounter many defeats, but you must not be defeated. In fact, it may be necessary to encounter the defeats so you can know who you are, what you can rise from, how you can still come out of it.” – Maya Angelou Exchange Links: Follow Pete on Facebook - @PositivelyPete, TikTok @positively_pete and LinkedIn @petepartin Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week, we welcome Julie DeLucca-Collins to the podcast. Growing up in El Salvador before moving to the United States, Julie DeLucca-Collins struggled with feelings that she could not, and would not, ever belong, before intentionally seeking to uplevel her confidence. In her TEDx speech, Julie talks about constant feelings of being "too much" or "too little" for certain groups of people, struggling to find somewhere she belongs. Her journey to finding belonging and self-confidence is an important story for anyone struggling to find where they belong in the world. Julie is the Host of the Casa DeConfidence Podcast, aTEDx Speaker, and the CEO of Go Confidently Services. Exchange Quotes: “Go confidently in the direction of your dreams. Live the life you imagined.” – Henry David Thoreau “Go confidently with your dreams and a whole new world of possibilities will open up to you.” – Mackenzie Glanville  Exchange Links: Find Julie on her website at www.wrgoconfidentlycoaching.com You can also follow Julie on Facebook - @jdelucca, Instagram @julie_deluccacollins, and TikTok @juliedcbusinesscoach Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram

This week, we welcome Dr. Leticia Wright to the podcast. Dr. Letitia Wright is the Executive Producer and Host of Wright Place TV which has run on cable for over 22 years. A Former Chiropractor, Dr. Wright transitioned into the Media World. Wright Place TV is in its 23rd season with a bandwidth spanning over 6.5 million homes throughout Southern California and beyond. In addition to her media work, she is a Top 100 Crowdfunding Expert in the United States, focusing on putting funding and money into the hands of women and minority owned businesses. Exchange Quotes: “A pivot is a change in strategy without a change in vision.” – Eric Ries “Pivoting does not mean changing your goal but rather changing your strategy to realize that goal.” – Steve Pemberton Exchange Links: Find Leticia on her website at www.wrightplacetv.com You can also follow Dr. Wright on Facebook - @DrLWright, LinkedIn @drleticiawright, and TikTok @yourcrowdfundingexpert Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

As Canada celebrated Thanksgiving this past weekend, we are not entering what we like to call the Season of Gratitude, that takes us through US Thanksgiving and into the December holiday season. Practicing gratitude is way more than just being thankful. It changes how we show up in the world, it helps us find healing, and then gives us even more to be grateful for.  Exchange Quotes: "If you can take your worst day and find something to turn it into your best day, then you find grace and gratitude. And life is always a gift." - Tony Robbins "Being thankful changes your perspective. The discipline of gratefulness has the ability to redeem even the most awful day." - Robyn Tidrick in "The Strength to Shift" Exchange Links: Follow our Season of Gratitude on Facebook and Instagram @EpicExchanges Get your copy of The Strength to Shift or Your Story Your Strength on Amazon today. www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week, we welcome Debbie Crouch to the podcast. Debbie Crouch is an inspiring artist and the founder of Art for Wellness CIC, where she uses creativity as a tool for personal growth and healing. Overcoming challenges such as a difficult childhood, neurological disorders, and a mental breakdown, she rediscovered her passion for art as a form of self-expression and therapy. Today, she empowers others to embrace their creativity and inner voice on their path to wellness and self-love. Exchange Quotes: "You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream." — C.S. Lewis "You can't use up creativity. The more you use, the more you have." — Maya Angelou  Exchange Links: Find Debbie on FB @artforwellness and IG @art.for.wellness.cic Listen to Debbie's podcast Create Your Best Life on Podbean. Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week, we bring you Lauren Burns and her incredible story. Lauren was kidnapped at the age of seven by her biological father and taken to Jordan. In 1992, NBC produced a made-for-television movie about her kidnapping and rescue. Lauren's journey of forgiveness and healing is an empowering story. She is the host of the Redeemed Podcast on Spotify, YouTube and Apple Podcasts. Her goal is to share her story to encourage others to forgive and live a redeemed life. Lauren is a full time Physical Therapist, wife and mother of two boys. Exchange Quotes: “To forgive is not to excuse what the other person did. It's to prevent their behaviour from destroying your heart.” – Unknown “Gratitude and forgiveness are deeply intertwined. Forgiveness liberates us from dwelling over past hurts, so we can spend more time seeing the good around us and allow ourselves to feel grateful.” – Nancy Davis Kho  Exchange Links: Lauren's website:  https://laurenburns.net/ Find her on Facebook @LaurenBredeemed Listen to more of her story and journey on her podcast Redeemed. Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week, we introduce you to Bobbie “The Awesome” Malatesta. Bobbie Malatesta is the creator of 3-21 No Kiddin' Nonalcoholic Beverage Store & Sober Social Club. Bobbie's mission is to create Recovery Playgrounds, to encourage adults to “play” again, remove the stigma around addiction and live life to the fullest. Bobbie is a podcaster, author and entrepreneur and is building the best nonalcoholic drink membership box and online community centered around living our best lives while supporting diversity and women! Exchange Quotes: “Follow your passion, be prepared to work hard and sacrifice, and, above all, don't let anyone limit your dreams.” – Donovan Bailey “Find your passion, whatever it may be. Become it, and let it become you, and you will find great things happen for you, to you, and because of you.” – T. Alan Armstrong Exchange Links: Bobbie's website: https://321nokiddin.com/ Find her on your favourite social media platform Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Kelly Mariah, another one of the authors in our new collaborative book, The Strength to Shift, available now from your favourite book seller! Kelly Mariah is a certified coach, speaker and trainer with the Maxwell Leadership Team. She believes that intentional personal growth, a positive support system, and finding purpose in your pain are vital keys to success when facing adversity. In her free time, Kelly loves to laugh, dance, climb mountains, and enjoy life with her family and friends. Exchange Quotes: “Healing is layers. Healing is time. Healing is excruciating. Once you think it's done, it's not.” – Mary DeMuth “When you start to see healing as unfolding layers of unexpected strength and richly revealed insights…it starts to feel like the sweetest secret…” – Lysa Terkeurst Exchange Links: Kelly's Website: www.kellymariah.com Follow Kelly on Facebook @kellymariah2 Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week, learn about Canadian hero, Terry Fox, who inspired an entire country with his Marathon of Hope as the 44th Annual Terry Fox Run happens on September 15th! Exchange Quotes: “I just wish people would realize that anything's possible if you try; dreams are made possible if you try.” – Terry Fox “I want to try the impossible to show it can be done.” – Terry Fox Exchange Links: Find out more at www.terryfox.org and even buy one of this year's shirts! Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Peggy Meyer, another one of the authors in our upcoming new collaborative book, The Strength to Shift (releasing on September 9, 2024) Peggy Meyer is a farmer's wife, mother of six and lifelong learner who is passionate about the topics of personal growth and mindset. As a mental health therapist for nearly 25 years, she focused on improving the lives of others. Now she interviews others and shares her knowledge on her podcast, Positive Solutions 4 Life. This bi-weekly show is centered around transforming the mind and body from the inside out.   Exchange Quotes: “Listen to your heart, listen to your inner voice of wisdom, listen to your dreams. You know what is right for you.” – Cheryl Hamada “Listen to your inner voice. Trust your intuition. It's important to have the courage to trust yourself.” – Dawn Ostroff Exchange Links: Peggy's Website: https://positivesolutions4life.com/ Follow Peggy on YouTube & IG: @positivesolutions4life Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is 2016 and 2024 Canadian Paralympian, Nathan Clement Nathan Clement has been an athlete his whole life. After a stroke caused by chicken pox at the age of 2 that caused him to lose mobility on one side of his body, Nathan entered sports as a way to help him regain some control over his left side. With parents and siblings who were all athletes, it was only natural that he would be drawn to competition himself. Nathan has competed on the world stage in two para sports, swimming and cycling, and is the 2023 Parapan American Games and World Champion in cycling. He has also studied broadcast and online journalism and is a writer and editor for Evergreen Productions. Exchange Quotes: “Challenge yourself, go for it whatever ‘it' may be; we are much more powerful and capable than we will ever know.” – Amy Purdy “By doing what you love, you inspire and awaken the hearts of others.” – Satsuki Shibuya Exchange Links: Follow Nathan on Instagram @nathanclement11 Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Tami Goulet, another one of the authors in our upcoming new collaborative book, The Strength to Shift (releasing on September 9, 2024) Tami Goulet, the Soulful Business Alchemist behind Speak Your Soul Magicks, leverages over 25 years of corporate experience and 5+ years as a solopreneur to empower entrepreneurs. Combining personalized coaching, practical strategies, and a touch of magic, she helps clients strengthen and streamline their business foundations to achieve sustainable success.  Exchange Quotes: "When you know yourself, you are empowered. When you accept yourself, you are invincible." —Tina Lifford “You have survived 100% of your bad days so far.” - Anonymous Exchange Links: Tami's Website: https://speakyoursoulmagicks.com Follow Tami on FB & IG: @speakyoursoulmagicks_tami Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Robyn Tidrick, one of the authors in our upcoming new collaborative book, The Strength to Shift (releasing on September 9, 2024) Robyn Tidrick received her Bachelor of arts in psychology from the University of Washington and lived more of her life in Washington state. After a decade of being a stay-at-home mom, Robyn took on the role of children's ministry director at their local church and spent an additional ten years working and volunteering for the International Network of Children's Ministry. She also assisted her husband with their family business in Pasco, Washington.  Recently retired, Robyn and her husband have relocated to a quiet neighbourhood on the Costa del Sol in Spain where they are enjoying the sunshine together as they work on their bucket list. Exchange Quotes: “Don't wait for things to get easier, simpler, better. Life will always be complicated. Learn to be happy right now. Otherwise, you will run out of time.” - Unknown “If you can't fly then run, if you can't run then walk, if you can't walk then crawl, but whatever you do you have to keep moving forward.” – Martin Luther King Jr. Exchange Links: Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com  

This week, we talk about who is our inspiration as Kelly shares her first memory of being inspired by someone else, Canadian Olympian, Silken Laumann. Kelly Snider's journey began at the age of three when she was rescued from a house fire that took the lives of both of her parents. Diving into her own story and finding deeper understanding and healing, Kelly recognized the power in the fact that everyone has a story that can positively impact others. She strives to collect and preserve these stories through creating events, writing books, interviewing guests on her podcast and facilitating life-changing story workshops.  Kelly is the best-selling author of the books “Your Story Your Strength” and “The Gift In Your Story”. Exchange Quotes: “The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another. We should raise each other up. Make sure you're very courageous; be strong, be extremely kind, and above all, be humble.” – Serena Williams “As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.” – Nelson Mandela Exchange Links: Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Danielle Reedy Danielle Reedy (she/her) is an Olympian, Speaker, Coach, Author, and Podcast Host. From Canada to Australia, she pursued her impossible dream of joining the Australian National Synchronised Swimming Team and competing in the Olympics, achieving that goal at the Rio Olympic Games in 2016. After five years on the team, including three World Championships, Danielle made history as part of Australia's First Mixed Duet in 2019 before retiring. Now, she passionately guides individuals worldwide through her podcast, programs, retreats and coaching, helping them liberate their body, mind, and soul to live a life they love.  Exchange Quotes: “Choose the great adventure of being brave and afraid. At the exact same time.” – Brené Brown “Life is meant to be experienced. Put yourself out there. Do things you've never done. Live a life where at the end you will have no regrets.” – Anonymous Exchange Links: Danielle's website: www.daniellekettlewell.com Follow Danielle on TikTok and Instagram @thedaniellereedy Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Deece Casillas Deece Casillas is an internationally touring Latino comedian who has performed across America, Canada, Mexico, Costa Rica, Belize, and the Bahamas. He has been featured on LMAO TV, Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Tubi, Roku Comedy Channel, has recorded two albums: The Northwest Comedy Mixtape Vol. 1 + 2, was voted Northwest's Best Comic five consecutive years in a row (2019-2023), and recently released his special: "Not Your Cup of Tea".  Exchange Quotes: “Always remember you are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.” – Christopher Robin in Winnie-the-Pooh “Always bet on yourself, no matter what the odds are. It means more to be in the race than to watch the victory laps from the stands.” – Pete Wentz Exchange Links: Deece's website: www.deececasillas.com Follow Deece on Instagram @deece.comedy Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Melissa Armstrong Melissa Armstrong has faced a lifetime of trauma and abuse, struggling with mental health issues from a young age. At 18, she experienced the devastating accident and subsequent death of her brother, adding to her existing struggles with anxiety, PTSD, and depression. Despite her hardships, Melissa has shown incredible resilience and strength in overcoming her challenges and now owns her own business as a Trauma-informed Functional Health Coach, helping other women overcome trauma to heal their mind, body, and spirit! Exchange Quotes: “Trauma is not what happens to you, trauma is what happens inside of you as a result of what happens to you.” – Gabor Mate “The past does not have to be your prison. You have a voice in your destiny. You have a say in your life. You have a choice in the path you take.” – Max Lucado Exchange Links: Melissa's website: http://www.holistichealthbymelissa.com/ Follow Melissa on Instagram @holistichealthbymelissa Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Nikki O'Dea Nikki O'Dea is a health coach and RN. She loves helping women build healthy habits that are enjoyable and fit their busy life. She's the creator and lead coach of the Keep It Off Academy, a 13-week fat loss program for women to lose weight without restrictive diets. Exchange Quotes: “I failed over and over and over again in my life and that is why I succeed.” – Michael Jordan “Your body holds deep wisdom. Trust in it. Learn from it. Nourish it. Watch your life transform and be healthy.” – Belle Bleue Exchange Links: Nikki's Free 4 day Simplified Fat Loss Kickstart Program: www.keepitoffcoaching.com/kickstart Join Nikki's Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/simplifiedfatloss Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week's guest is Danielle La Rose. Danielle La Rose is a Body Confidence Coach & Wellness Strategist, Pretty POWERful Girl Mentor, and Motivational Fitness Instructor. Leaning on her education with a Master's Degree in Sociology with a focus in women's health, and combining it with her own wellness journey, Danielle strives to inspire & motivate women around the world to question beauty standards and get OUT of their body thoughts and INTO living their best, most confident lives!  Exchange Quotes: “Loving your body isn't thinking your body looks good, it's knowing your body is good regardless of how it looks.” – Lindsay Kite “I am ready to release the stories in my head and forgive myself for believing everything my inner critic has ever said.” - Unknown Exchange Links: www.daniellenicolelarose.com www.75healthy.com Follow Danielle on Facebook @CoachDanielleNicole and on TikTok @daniellenicolelarose Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com  

This week our guest is Christy Holt Christy Holt is a self-proclaimed Happiness Hussy, adventure guide, podcast host of Create Your Happy and international best-selling author of Unstuck For Women, Run For Your Life and others. Christy is on a mission to spread happiness around the planet, one beautiful soul at a time. Christy uses her signature CREATE method to adventure alongside of her heart-led clients to support and love them as they discover and unlearn. Christy's mentorship helps her clients to create a life they love full of loving and healthy relationships that make them truly happy! Exchange Quotes: “To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance.” – Oscar Wilde “How you love yourself is how you teach others to love you.” – Rupi Kaur Exchange Links: www.coachchristyholt.com Follow Christy on FB and IG @coachchristyholt and listen to her podcast, Create Your Happy Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Shelley Blechar Chef Shelley has had a successful personal chef business for over 15 years, and when she's not cooking for her clients, she helps passionate cooks start their own personal chef business so they can get paid to do what they love, cook, without spending tens of thousands of dollars on culinary school or sacrificing their family life to someone else's culinary dream. Exchange Quotes: "The only real stumbling block is fear of failure. In cooking, you've got to have a what-the-hell attitude." - Julia Child “When faced with a decision, choose the path that feeds your soul.” – Dorothy Mendoza Row Exchange Links: https://chefshelley.co Follow Chef Shelley on YouTube @ChefShelleyB Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Wendy Cole Knowing from childhood she was a girl, Wendy yielded to familial and societal expectations to fit in. At age 67, Wendy changed her life with her transition. Beginning in January 2015 she focused internally: accepting who she really was, confronting fears, doubts, and anxieties that held her back for decades. She took the leap of faith to find freedom and joy in being herself. By July 2015, six months later, Wendy was living as a woman. She had her long-awaited surgery at NYU Medical in 2017. Wendy knows by focusing inwardly to find freedom and joy will benefit the rest of your life.   Exchange Quotes: “The easiest thing to be in the world is you. The most difficult thing to be is what other people want you to be. Don't let them put you in that position.” – Leo Buscaglia “Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken.” – Oscar Wilde Exchange Links: Wendy's websites: https://MeetWendyCole.com and https://wendycolegtm.net Find Wendy on FB ( https://www.facebook.com/wendycolegtm) and IG @wcole212 Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Laticia Brice Laticia is a black woman in tech who is not afraid to take risks or break from tradition, whether it's leaving a successful career behind to go after her dreams, taking over a European River Tour, or diving into the Mediterranean. She created the Digital Growth HUB membership to give overwhelmed entrepreneurs a clear road map that keeps them focused and on task so they can make real progress and create a successful business. Exchange Quotes: “Whether you think you can or think you can't, you're right” - Henry Ford “Everything is Figureoutable”  – Marie Forleo Exchange Links: https:// ww.laticiabrice.com/achieve-your-business-goals/ https://www.instagram.com/laticiabriceconsulting/ Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Carmen Leal Carmen Leal is a storyteller and the author of multiple books, articles, devotionals, and human-interest stories. Carmen relocated from Hawaii to Oshkosh, yes, there is a story behind the move, and has become an awesome dog mom.  Carmen and her husband have become reluctant gardeners and know a crazy amount about Wisconsin weeds. She is the mother of two sons, two incredible grandsons, and Coconut, the best imperfectly perfect rescue dog in the world.   Exchange Quotes: “I have found that when you are deeply troubled, there are things you get from the silent devoted companionship of a dog that you can get from no other source.” – Doris Day “Be the person your dog thinks you are.” — C.J. Frick Exchange Links: Carmen on Facebook: www.facebook.com/rescuemoredogs   Website: www.carmenleal.com Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

Today we feature another children's book author and welcome Vie Portland to Epic Exchanges Vie Portland is a confidence coach, an author, a motivational speaker, and a social entrepreneur. Her aim in life is to leave the world a kinder, happier, more confident, place than when she joined, and her children's books are part of that.  Exchange Quotes: “Somewhere, inside all of us, is the power to change the world.” – Roald Dahl “It's who we are and what we do that matters; the rest is just fancy packaging.” – Vie Portland Exchange Links: www.vieness.co.uk @VieNessCIC on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn Epic Exchanges on Facebook @epicexchanges on Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Emily Kady Emily Kady is a Spiritual Medium and Intuitive Channeler who understands the pressures of overachievement all too well. Despite her many accomplishments, including owning two 7-figure businesses by the age of 37, she found herself suffocating under the weight of others' expectations, as she was just striving to fit in. This led to a devastating burnout, leaving her drained and disillusioned, searching for purpose and fulfillment in life.   In 2015, a near-death experience shook her to the core, awakening her to the preciousness of life, and igniting a fierce desire to uncover her life purpose and live it authentically, free from the confines of others' expectations. Exchange Quotes: “Surrendering to who you really are and why you are here may very well change the world.” – Maria Flynn “Authenticity is the daily practice of letting go of who we think we're supposed to be and embracing who we are.” – Brené Brown  Exchange Links: Emily on FB and IG: https://www.facebook.com/EmilyKadySpiritualMedium  https://www.instagram.com/emily_kady_spiritual_medium/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6lOJeVKrMvqSO8zE-fpbLQ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@emily_kadee Website: emilykady.com Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Jason Clawson Jason Clawson is a therapist with over 16 years' experience, specializing in trauma, grief, addiction, and mental health. In 2018, his wife's battle with stage 4 Colon Cancer turned his world upside down. After her passing, Jason grappled with depression and isolation but found healing through love, support and giving back. Now, as the Co- founder of Hope Kit, he spreads hope worldwide to others who are facing some of the most challenging times in life. Exchange Quotes: “There is no shame in asking for help. It is one of the most courageous things you'll ever do and will lead to greater connection with those around you.” – Laura Lane “Healing is the art of reclaiming joy from sorrow.” – Jason Clawson Exchange Links: https://hopekit.com/ Find The Hope Kit on Facebook and Instagram Connect with Jason on LinkedIn Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Bill Lee-Emery In August 2022, Bill was diagnosed with throat cancer. Having previously enjoyed a healthy life this was a shock to the system. But Bill had an advantage over many of the other cancer patients he saw in the waiting rooms waiting for treatment. He had 40 years of working with mindset principles and emotional resilience. His journey was not going to be typical. Exchange Quotes: “Pain is inevitable, but suffering is optional.” -  Buddha  “There is nothing either good or bad, but thinking makes it so.” - William Shakespeare in Hamlet Exchange Links: Find Bill Lee-Emery on LinkedIn – website coming soon Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Julie Letizia After battling what western medicine called ‘an incurable disease', Julie started looking for healthier alternatives to the way she and her fellow university students were fueling their bodies to handle the heavy workloads and demands of post-secondary education. This led to the idea and creation of Benny, a good-for-you energy drink company based in Vancouver, BC Canada. Formerly a student athlete, she's now on a mission to offer nourishing options to help fuel your current and future self. Exchange Quotes: “Only those who will risk going too far can possibly find out how far one can go.” – T.S. Eliot “These things will be hard to do, but you can do hard things.” – Glennon Doyle Melton Exchange Links: https://drinkbenny.com/ Find drinkbenny on Instagram and LinkedIn Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Karen Laos Karen is a Communication Expert and Confidence Cultivator who leverages 25 years in the boardroom and speaking on some of the world's most coveted stages to help her clients transform missed opportunities into wins. She is fiercely committed to her mission of eradicating self-doubt in 10 million women by giving them practical strategies to ask for what they want in the boardroom and beyond. She guides corporations and individuals to generate consistent results with her proven formula, The Confidence Cocktail. Exchange Quotes: Every wall is a door.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson “Communication – the human connection – is the key to personal and career success.” – Paul J. Meyer Exchange Links: https://karenlaos.com Find Karen on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube and Twitter Follow @epicexchanges on Facebook and Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

Today we feature another children's book author and welcome Angela Smith to Epic Exchanges Angela Smith is a New Zealand author who writes books on self-esteem and resiliency for 3 – 8-year-olds. These books are used in classrooms around the world and help children learn about healthy boundaries, resiliency, and how to stop bullying. Alongside her children's books, Angela writes wellness books for the teen-adult audience, introducing the reader to self-love and greater self-belief.  Exchange Quotes: “Sometimes the only closure we need is to understand that we deserve better.” – Angela Smith “The hardest challenge is to be yourself in a world where everyone is trying to make you be somebody else.” – E. E. Cummings Exchange Links: www.truepotential.co.nz Angela on Instagram Epic Exchanges on Facebook @epicexchanges on Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com    

This week our guest is Vera from Flexibility with Vera Vera is a Toronto-based personal trainer and flexibility coach who is working to create a space in the fitness industry beyond weight loss, diet culture, and fatphobia. Their platform, Flexibility with Vera, aims to help people worldwide discover body-neutral movement.  Exchange Quotes: "Take your time and your talent and figure out what you have to contribute to this world, and get over what the hell your butt looks like in those jeans" — America Ferrara “Since I don't look like every other girl, it takes a while to be okay with that. To be different. But different is good.” – Serena Williams Exchange Links: www.flexibilitywithvera.com @flexwithvera on Instagram and TikTok Flexibility With Vera on Facebook and YouTube Epic Exchanges on Facebook @epicexchanges on Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

Today we welcome Kristin Ormiston back to Epic Exchanges Kristin resides in Smithers, BC where she is a musician, best-selling author, and so much more! She has lived, taught, and played music all over the world, from Australia to Japan to Pender Island, British Columbia and more. The inspiration for Kristin's music comes from the people she surrounds herself with and reflects the 70s radio classics that she grew up listening to. Kristin's most recent release is “The Way Down Songbook” a book designed for children that incorporates images, words and music in an interactive way. Exchange Quotes: “Music is one way for young people to connect with themselves, but, it's also a bridge for connecting with others. Through music, we can introduce children to the richness and diversity of the human family and to the myriad rhythms of life.” – Daniel A Carp “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.” - Plato Exchange Links: Mrs. Kristin on Apple Music and Spotify Kristin on Facebook www.ormistonpress.ca Epic Exchanges on Facebook @epicexchanges on Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

Today we feature another children's book author and welcome Shari Lillico to Epic Exchanges  Shari is a Best Selling Author, speaker, coach, and intuitive healer who has become a beacon of inspiration for those who have felt the need to hide their true selves. From her own experience of being a daydreaming child to becoming free of societal expectations her message is clear: You can find and do what you love, and you can do it your way by being you. Exchange Quotes: “Today you are You, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is Youer than You.” – Dr. Seuss “To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.” —Ralph Waldo Emerson   Exchange Links: www.sharilillico.com Shari on Facebook Epic Exchanges on Facebook @epicexchanges on Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Kelly Neff, a certified coach, speaker, trainer, and DISC Behavioral Consultant with the Maxwell Leadership Team. She is also a certified Enneagram - Motions of the Soul Practitioner. Kelly believes that consistent personal growth and a positive support system are two vital keys to success. She believes these two keys, in addition to her faith, have been the foundation that has helped her survive, revive, and even thrive after tragically losing her oldest son to suicide and her husband to cancer. Exchange Quotes: “Redemption is not living as though it didn't happen, it's living differently because it did happen.” - Randy Creamer “When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves.” – Victor Frankl “If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change.” – Wayne Dyer Exchange Links: www.kellyneffspeaks.com @kellyneffspeaks on Facebook and Instagram Epic Exchanges on Facebook @epicexchanges on Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

At the end of August, I was one of the featured speakers at the Purposeful You online summit. My topic was that we have one life to live today. And my presentation was, as expected, about how important our stories are – but even more crucial, is that we never know just how much time we have to capture those stories – our own, those of our grandparents and parents and other significant mentors in our lives, and those of our families. Here is that presentation. Exchange Quotes: “After nourishment, shelter and companionship, stories are the thing we need most in the world.” – Philip Pullman “Through the art of storytelling, we can preserve our heritage, educate future generations, and inspire change.” – Philipp Humm Exchange Links: Epic Exchanges on Facebook @epicexchanges on Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com  

This week our guest is Jennifer McFarland Jennifer has been a TFT Tapping practitioner for 10 years and is also an international speaker, author of “The Monarch & The Manager”. She works with women with ADHD and shows them how to vanquish the fear, shame, and loss that comes from inconsistent actions. Exchange Quotes: “You have been criticizing yourself for years and it hasn't worked. Try approving of yourself and see what happens.” - Louise Hay “Ask yourself what is really important, then have the courage to build your life around your answer.” – Unknown Exchange Links: www.monarchdawn.com Jennifer McFarland on LinkedIn Epic Exchanges on Facebook @epicexchanges on Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

Today we feature another children's book author and welcome Shahin Najak to Epic Exchanges Shahin Najak is a Certified Mindfulness Meditation Coach for parents, teachers and caregivers. Her passion lies in supporting adults and children, particularly parents and teenagers, in bringing back joy and connection and building better relationships using mindfulness skills proven to increase self-esteem and self-acceptance. She is the author of the mindfulness book for children, “Ariya Makes Friends with RAIN”, which includes a parents' guide on using the acronym RAIN to work through our big feelings as adults and guide our children through their big feelings.  Exchange Quotes: “You are the sky. Everything else is just the weather.” – Pema Chodron “We use mindfulness to observe the way we cling to pleasant experiences and push away unpleasant ones.” ― Sharon Salzberg   Exchange Links: www.mindful-changes.com Shahin and Mindful Changes on Instagram and Facebook Epic Exchanges on Facebook @epicexchanges on Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week our guest is Markku Kostamo Markku Kostamo currently serves as Director of Development with Sanctuary Mental Health. Markku has served in the non-profit sector for over twenty years and is passionate about seeing organizations grow and develop in executing their mission and impact. Exchange Quotes: “Sometimes it takes an overwhelming breakdown to have an undeniable breakthrough.” – Nicky James “And like a tree, we grow from the ground up. Leaves will fall, and branches will break, but even in those moments, it still provides beauty to this world. So do not give up on all that you are and all that you could be for where you are and what you feel at this moment. Our strength and beauty still exist even when we cannot see them” – Hannah Blum Exchange Links: www.kaci.io www.sanctuary mentalhealth.org Markku Kostamo on Instagram and LinkedIn Epic Exchanges on Facebook @epicexchanges on Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

Today I'm happy to welcome Rosemary Holbrook. Rosemary is a yoga teacher, recovering addict, entrepreneur, researcher, adventurer, and experience collector. She is studying to be a yoga therapist and is a certified Vedic astrologer. When she's not immersing herself in the work of helping others heal from trauma and cultivate resilience in their lives, relationships or businesses, she can probably be found snuggling with her partner or two children, playing in the woods somewhere in the Appalachian Mountains of western North Carolina. Exchange Quotes: “Be not the slave of your own past. Plunge into the sublime seas, dive deep and swim far, so you shall come back with self-respect, with new power, with an advanced experience.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson “I have never let my schooling interfere with my education.” – Mark Twain Exchange Links: www.yogiscopes.com Yogiscopes on Facebook Follow Rosemary on Insight Timer Epic Exchanges on Facebook @epicexchanges on Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

Today I'm happy to welcome Mark Nendick. Mark is a certified personal trainer and a nutrition and lifestyle coach who lives in Merritt, British Columbia. In 2010, overweight and riddled with anxiety, Mark knew there had to be a better way to live and feel, and this is where his own health and wellness journey began. Today, he, through his company PFN Coaching, supports others to achieve their lifestyle goals and find their own path to wellness.   Exchange Quotes: “I don't stop when I'm tired, I stop when I'm done.” – David Goggins “It's never too late to be what you might have been.” – George Eliot Exchange Links: www.marknendick.com https://linktr.ee/mark_nendick Epic Exchanges on Facebook @epicexchanges on Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

This week we introduce a new feature to Epic Exchanges.  Once a month we will be welcoming a children's book author to share their book and story with us. To kick things off, we are joined by Allison Parry, author of “Emmie the Empath and the Kintsugi Vase”   Exchange Quotes: “The planet does not need more successful people, but it does desperately need more peacemakers, healers, restorers, storytellers and lovers of every kind.” – David Orr “Be yourself. Everyone else is already taken.” – Oscar Wilde Exchange Links: www.empathmom.ca @empathmom_  on Instagram Epic Exchanges on Facebook @epicexchanges on Instagram and YouTube www.kellysniderauthor.com

With today's episode, we relaunch the podcast after more than a year on hiatus while I completed and released my book, "Your Story Your Strength."  With this relaunch, we will be featuring more guests sharing their own stories of overcoming, achievement, triumph and more. Today's guest is Brielle Cotterman, TEDx speaker, publicity expert and celebrity-maker and a survivor of domestic violence and attempted murder and an advocate for a world where intimate partner abuse is not tolerated and survivors are met with empathy.  Exchange Quotes: “There are only two ways to get people to do what you want; manipulate them or inspire them. – Brielle Cotterman “Our stories don't have to be filled with drama and trauma in order to be impactful.” – Brielle Cotterman Exchange Links: www.briellecotterman.com @briellecotterman on Facebook and Instagram Epic Exchanges on Facebook @epicexchanges on Instagram www.kellysniderauthor.com

We've met today's guest, Julie Allen, before when she shared her battle with eating disorders and learning to love and accept herself every day just as she is.  All about self-worth.  So it seems only natural that she is here this week to wrap up our month's focus, by taking things a little further to discuss how our bigger choices are a reflection of our values and worth.  Exchange Quotes: “Will this leave us bitter or better?  Grieve and then decide.” – Amanda Gorman “I raise up my voice – not so that I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard…We cannot all succeed when half of us are held back. – Malala Yousafzai Exchange Links: www.maryrose.boutique @maryrose.boutique Epic Exchanges on Facebook @epicexchanges on Instagram