Life Out Loud Podcast

First off, I want to say, THANK YOU to everyone who has supported the Life Out Loud Podcast over the year. We have made it to the season finale, with some special guests, my family, the SMITH Family! In this episode, we chat about our recent episode on Family Feud Canada (Season 4, Episode 55) and share some "behind the scenes" funny moments during our adventures on Family Feud. Tune in to listen (and laugh) more! 

Caitlyn Hamblin is back in the studio for our follow-up conversation to discuss the launch of her new passion project, Cait Collabs, a project of hers to connect brands and generate collaborations between big-picture creative women. Tune into our discussion to hear more about the exciting projects she has lined up and what she has planned for a collab with me! If you're interested in learning more about Cait Collabs or potential collaboration, connect with Caitlyn on Instagram at cait_collabs.

From an Engineer to engineering love, Jean-eva Dickie, founder of Book of Love Canada joins me in the studio this week to talk about her successful business in matchmaking, but also the importance of nurturing a culture of dating that values self-love, growth and authenticity. In this episode, Jean-eva and I share a few beautiful and raw moments about love, the power of loneliness, vulnerability and some of the nuances in uncoupling and coupling. To learn more about Jean-eva's work, check out Book of Love Canada and her podcast, the Book of Love Podcast. 

This week's life lesson is so much about vulnerability. I've been thinking a lot about the stages of change and growth that I've been living out loud. Growing when people are watching has been one of the most ambitious yet beautiful ways to experience the fullness of growth through intimate connection with others and, more profoundly, with myself. Tune in to hear more.

Our wounds are a part of who we are, and from my experiences, they can teach us a lot about ourselves and how to nurture ourselves in ways that guide our lives in purposeful and meaningful ways. It's been a journey peeling back the layers of my wounds, but it's unlocked a realization that healing happens when we can love all of the painful, shameful and ugly parts of ourselves. Are you willing to make a choice to find wisdom from your wounds? Tune in to hear more! 

I am falling in love. You heard right - I am falling deeply in love with myself. Despite some of life's complexities and my current personal situation, I am uncovering a kind of self-love that enhances resilience and perseverance. In this episode, I've provided some helpful guiding questions around self-love and discovery — which I hope will also benefit you on your journey.

I am joined in the studio this week by Nicholas Hickens-Morrison — a healthcare professional, author and advocate of Afro-Caribbean descent, originally from Guyana. Nicholas has undertaken various healthcare and research-related initiatives locally and internationally, centring on supporting the needs of vulnerable and marginalized populations. Tune in as our conversation highlights the value of vulnerability in research and the importance of utilizing qualitative methods in research. To learn more about the Racial Stress Study: brainwaves@msvu.ca or connect with Nicholas directly at Nicholas.hickens@msvu.ca.

I am joined in the studio this week by Nicholas Hickens-Morrison — a healthcare professional, author and advocate of Afro-Caribbean descent, originally from Guyana. Nicholas has undertaken various healthcare and research-related initiatives locally and internationally, centring on supporting the needs of vulnerable and marginalized populations. Tune in as our conversation highlights the value of vulnerability in research and the importance of utilizing qualitative methods in research. To learn more about the Racial Stress Study: brainwaves@msvu.ca or connect with Nicholas directly at Nicholas.hickens@msvu.ca.

Many people spend years or a lifetime not understanding the depth of their emotions, but getting curious about them is a way for us to be mindful of our feelings so that when we reveal them, we can consciously heal them — which is fundamental in shaping our lives and experiences. Tune in to hear more about how I'm processing the waves of emotions and using them on my journey of personal growth.

This week's life lesson is brought to you by, my emotional life. It's been a week of stretching and leaning into my faith — which nurtures my spirit of gratitude. What are the seeds that have been planted in your life that have help you cultivate a spirit of gratitude? Tune in to hear more. 

This week on the show, I am joined by Lucinda Underwood - Managing Director of Kickstart Coaching & Consulting, a boutique consulting firm based in Halifax specializing in marketing strategy and sales management. Lucinda shares her experience and expertise around leadership, burnout and the trending topic of “Quiet Quitting." We discuss some interesting ideas around corporate culture and the need to shake up how we work. Tune in to hear more.

I'm back from a much-needed break over the summer. And now that summer has ended, I'm feeling the seasonal shift of Fall and the spiralling in of energy. What are the shifts in your life teaching you? Tune in as I share how I'm learning to cultivate the courage to facilitate growth during some of life's difficult transitions.

Have you ever thought about the process of growth? In this episode, I talk about the growing pains or sometimes psychological pain we experience during seasons change and being stretched. This summer break is about going into the cocoon and being present for my next growing season. 

Caitlyn Hamblin joins me in the studio this week to talk about the value of self-care within service to others, and how our engagement with others help strengthen ourselves. Caitlyn is an Executive Assistant in Business Development and Marketing — and through her passion for community connection and personal growth, Caitlyn shares with us ways of managing self-care while at the same time, taking care of others. Connect with Caitlyn at @cait_collabs

I'm trying to be something I've never seen before — and to grow up for this season in my life, I have to be stretched. I need to be uncomfortable, disciplined and committed to the process of change I'm facing. What are your actions and presence saying about who you want to become? And what is being exposed in your life that might reveal the vision of who you want to be? Tune in to hear more.

I'm learning a lot about the ebbs and flows in my life — navigating some really complex emotions. It's been a hard couple of months for me, and the word, “Ebb and Flow” keep cycling in my mind. Despite the significant changes I'm experiencing in my life, I know that the waves will not overtake me but are there to teach me some important lessons. Tune in to hear more. 

Multiple awards winner and the self-taught, passionate designer and Creative Director of MichNat Fashion House, Funmi Odeniyi, graced us with her presence in the studio to share her journey from being an Accountant to a successful and afro-centric fashion designer. Her story of "following your passion" reminds us that the path to success is not always linear but a beautiful journey of self-discovery and living life with purpose. Connect with Funmi through their website at MichNat Fashion House or on Instagram at @michnatfashion

Mental health and housing advocate, Aaron Goodwin, joins us in the studio this week to talk about his experiences living with Bipolar Disorder and the value of support networks. This conversation was a reminder of how far I've come on my own journey with mental illness, and my gratitude for those who have helped me along the way. To connect with Aaron on Instagram @omg_fine

My voice coach, Elise Besler joins us in the studio this week. Elise is a veteran Voice and Authenticity Coach, ECMA Nominated Singer-Songwriter, Ocean Lover and Dog Mama to a sweet senior Lab Mix rescue pooch named Ellie. In this episode, Elise teaches us about our voice-body connection and how we can show up safely in authentic expression. Connect with Elise at www.thevocalwarrior.com, elise@thevocalwarrior.com or on Instagram @thevocalwarrior

This week on the show, we are joined by a special guest and successful career strategist, Jen Warrington. Jen shares with us some incredible insight on how to use your skills and experiences to create a career you love. Connect with Jen at www.jenwarrington.com and www.thefusiongroup.ca , and email at jen@thefusiongroup.ca Or follow Jen on the following platforms: Instagram at @jen_warrington LinkedIn @jenwarrington Facebook: @jenwarringtoncareerstrategist 

The top-of-mind topic this week is one of our "misunderstood emotion" — Regret, and I've been thinking a lot about it lately. I learned a lot about my feelings about regret and the power to use those experiences of regret to learn and grow. Thanks to Brene Brown and Dan Pink's interview on The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward, I'm shifting my mindset around what regret means in my life.

Artist and Fashion Stylist, and Founder of the social media brand, "Shopping Soulmate" joins us in the studio to talk about her journey in finding her purpose again as she shares her experiences as her multi-faceted self. Connect with Emily on Instagram at @emily.shoppingsoulmate, on TikTok @emilyshoppingsoulmate and Twitter @shoppingsoulmat 

Writer, Producer and Director in tv and film, Amy Grace is here as our first guest this season on the podcast! Amy has graced us with her presence this week in the studio and has shared some beautiful sentiments with us on holding space, discovering our path and understanding the many things that shape our journey, through our childhood experiences and creativity. To connect further with Amy, check her out on Instagram at @byamygrace or at www.byamygrace.com

It's been 2 whole years since I started the Life Out Loud Podcast, and I am celebrating by honouring a part of me for which I have not often given credit - my fear! I started this podcast "doing it scared" and I can honestly say, I have no regrets! Tune in as I share my experience in building a "Courage Over Comfort" practice. Join the conversation on Instagram at @_martina.official_. And check out my latest article on Courage at SHEcorporated

I've been thinking a lot about the many parts of ourselves, and I find myself on this journey of navigating ways in which we can authentically integrate the many parts of who we are, and how giving ourselves permission for self-exploration can bring about freedom in our self-expression. Have a comment or feedback about this topic? I'd love to hear from you! The Life Out Loud Podcast has a new Instagram account - join the conversation at @_martina.official_ 

I'm back from a 4-month hiatus from the show, and it feels great to be back in the studio again! Thanks for being here! Tune in to hear about what I've been up to, and what I am looking forward to in Season 3. The Life Out Loud Podcast has a new Instagram account - join the conversation at @_martina.official_ 

Life Out Loud is back folks! We'll be returning to regular scheduled weekly episodes this Monday, May 2nd. In the meantime, here's a little update on what's new and don't forget to check out Burger Bash happening in Halifax right now! There's over 130 restaurants participating with meat and vegan options, check it out!

We have made it — episode 60 and the end of season of 2! Wow, what an incredible journey this has been so far! I'm learning so much along the way, and most recently, I'm learning about the cycle of my habits. Tune in to find out why now is the time for me to take a break, recalibrate and build new and healthier habits for 2022. Thank YOU for listening and supporting the Life Out Loud Podcast. See you in 2022!

Back by popular demand - my parents, Bobby and Darlene have returned to the studio to share with us their beautiful love and light! Their reflection of the last year, and how they are finding joy, peace and hope for the future, is a reminder for us to lean into gratitude through all seasons of our lives.

Meagan is back, and we had the opportunity to sit down together and reflect on the last weekend's Rise Up Shine Bright event. What a phenomenal and powerful day we all got to share! Tune in as we reflect and recap some of the messages shared by the speakers, and find out what's next from "your hype girl," Meg Cole. Connect with Meg online at Rise Up Shine Bright and follow her on Instagram @riseup.shinebright 

Breakdown to Breakthrough — this was the topic of my most recent keynote. Tune in as I share the practice run of my presentation of using darkness to find our light.

TV host, account executive, amateur photographer and free spirit, Kiersten Hackett joined me in the studio this week to talk about elements of feeling to fruition. We chatted about the meaning of having a soul tribe; the value of spirituality on our journey and the importance of turning inward and navigating experiences to facilitate growth in our lives. This episode is filled with lots of ideas to consider as we open ourselves to living life within our highest potential. Connect with Kiersten on Instagram at @kierstenarvan & @kierstenhackettphoto

This week's episode on the Life Out Loud Podcast is inspired by the beautiful changes in nature. I've been ready for a change for some time and feel more strongly about nurturing this time in my life so that I can cultivate the seeds of change. What will you sow in your life, that has the potential to produce a beautiful harvest in your future? Tune in to hear more!

Meagan Cole, aka, “Your Hype Girl,” joins me in the studio this week to spread some light, love, and beautiful energy into your soul! From personal development, finding your worth to self-care practices, Meagan shares with us some insightful words of wisdom for our journey in life. And stay tuned to the end, we have some exciting news to share regarding an upcoming event! Connect with Meagan on socials: IG: riseup.shinebright FB: Rise Up Shine Bright Website: riseupshinebright.ca

I've been learning that in order to grow forward in my purpose, I've had to be inconvenienced in life — and to grow forward requires us to confront the inconveniences in our lives instead of avoiding them. In 2019 when I committed to living a “life on purpose,” I didn't fully understand that I would also have to commit to being inconvenienced along the way. Our purpose in life was not designed to come easy, but it's a beautiful discovery when we allow the inconveniences to be a part of the journey.

Lettuce celebrate Thanksgiving, burgers; and all that we have in life! It's Thanksgiving Day (Oct 11), and I'm hoping that we find time to lean into gratitude. When was the last time you reflected on that which you are grateful for? Also this week, the 2021 Halifax Burger Week begins, on Oct 14. Nova Scotia, Canada, is experiencing a food crisis — 1 in 6 households in Nova Scotia is food insecure. Halifax Burger Week is a popular fundraiser to help support Feed Nova Scotia in response to the food crisis in the region. To check out and map out your burger week lineup, visit their website at burgerweek.co. And to donate funds or other resources to Feed Nova Scotia, visit their website at feednovascotia.ca 

From growing up as an only child; to his experience in the Military — the mental and emotional dark places and to then finding his light and passion as an artist — model, actor and musician, Ben DeViller joins me in the studio to share some incredible life insights he's learned on his journey thus far. There's so much more we need to chat about that we will have to record a second part soon. Connect with Ben at: bendeviller@gmail.com | Twitter: @bendeviller | TikTok: @bendeviller | Instagram: @ben_solimodels

We have made it halfway to 100 episodes! And we're celebrating this milestone days before International Podcast Day! September 30th is International Podcast Day — a day to celebrate the podcast community and the art and power of podcasts. Podcasts have provided me with incredible insights and connections with others —and I am feeling so grateful to be a part of the podcast community. Tune in to learn more about the benefits of podcasts and how you can celebrate with us! 

I'm back from summer break! It has been an eventful summer, to say the least, and now I find myself getting curious about what I truly want for my life and work that will minimize feeling overwhelmed and overworked. It's a continuous journey and exploration but as we descend into the Fall season, I've decided to "choose change" in an attempt to better manage a healthy work/life integration.  

It's time for a break! I've decided to be intentional about taking time away over the summer from my Life Out Loud business activities, including the podcast. I'm pausing on purpose, to rediscover other areas of creative work that bring me joy and meaning — and I'm using this time to rest, refocus and recharge, so that I can finish out this season strong! While I'm away, why not get caught up on other episodes you may have missed in the past. And I'll see you back here, for another episode on the Life Out Loud Podcast on Monday, September 20th. Have a great summer!

Let Me Overthink About It Podcast host, Sam Madore, joins in me studio to talk address mental health experiences such as burnout, guilt and the importance of balance and taking breaks. Sam is also a published author with three children's books that address mental health topics such as bullying, anxiety and grief. Connect with Sam at www.thesammadore.ca or @sammadore on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter — and by email at sam@thesammadore.ca

Mental Health Advocate and UpTalk Podcast Host, Sean Conohan, joins me in the studio to share his story as a Paramedic and Volunteer FireFighter — and his experience with Post-Traumatic Stress Diisorder (PTSD). Sean brings a wealth of knowledge and wisdom to the conversation — from understanding the effects of trauma to incorporating wellness practices that encourage Post-Traumatic Growth. Connect with Sean on social media at @uptalkpodcast or uptalkpodcast@gmail.com. Stream UpTalk Podcast wherever you download podcasts!  Sensitive content: Episode mentions suicide and traumatic experiences.

Rebekah Streeter, Founder and Creative Director of Voda Retreats joins me in the studio, in advance of International Self-Care Day, to have a conversation about self-care practices and the meaningful and curated experiences with Voda Retreats. These experiences help promote a healthy lifestyle, healthy communities and personal wellness. Connect with Rebekah, at Hello@vodaretretas.com, or at vodaretreats.com and on Instagram at @vodaretreats 

Raslaxx is a multi-talented Artist, DJ, Model & Producer originally from Kingston, Jamaica, who is steadily growing his roots in Nova Scotia. Raslaxx is making an impact in several sectors of the entertainment/media industry and is broadening the horizon for his music to be heard. Tune in as we talk about his journey and how mental health has played a significant part in his career as an artist. Follow Raslaxx on Instagram at @raslaxx and stream his music on Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/raslaxx or download Raslaxx's music on whichever music streaming platforms you use.

This week on the show, I have a conversation with Co-Founder/CEO of The Atlantic Scholarship Organization, Solitha Shortte, along with Legacy Ambassador, Olivia Martin and Marcy Martin — Director of ASO's Legacy Ambassadors and Volunteers, to talk about their charitable initiatives of empowering young leaders through education. ASO is changing the narrative by providing financial and supportive resources to marginalized young leaders in Atlantic Canada. To support this organization, visit atlanticscholarship.com and check them out on Instagram at @atlscholarship.

This week on the show, we turned the podcast studio into a music studio — and sat down with the talented group, BYC (Beyond Your Cosmos), featuring Swaezi, Divine Soul, and Sam Was Here. The group opens up about how music has impacted their mental health, their perspectives in life, and how they live life. And a side note, Swaezi and Divine Should have a special familial connection. Tune in to learn more!  Check out the group on Instagram at: SWA3Zi: @swaezi_byc DiViNe $ouL: divinesoul_byc sam was hereL: samwasheremusic   

One of the strategies I am learning when dealing with challenging situations is how to take care and show myself kindness in the process. In this episode, I'm leaning into understanding self-judgment and exploring ways of nurturing and responding with self-compassion when faced with difficult circumstances Thank you to my life coach, Mischaela Richter for guiding me through this process and lending perspectives that help move me into a healthy sense of self. To learn more about the work she is doing, you can visit her website at https://www.mischaelarichter.com 

Dr. Diana Hill is a clinical psychologist, fellow podcaster, and expert in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) — a cutting-edge, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that helps people develop psychological flexibility. Diana's new book, which she co-authored with Dr. Debbie Sorensen is Act Daily Journal, breaks psychological flexibility into an 8-week program, to help as we rebuild and re-enter our lives.   I am honoured to have had the opportunity to chat with Dr. Diana Hill in this episode. We discuss the many layers of healthy striving in life and getting clear on living in a way that is aligned with our values  — among other growth facilitating topics.    Want to connect with Dr. Diana Hill? Website: https://drdianahill.com Facebook:  @drdianahill Instagram: @drdianahill Twitter: @drdianahill

This week on the show, I got to catch up with Thomas Pederson from the Speak For Change Podcast. I love chatting with Thomas because of his enthusiasm for living a meaningful life. In this episode, we talk about living a life aligned with our values; being and doing; and we ended with a great conversation around change. To connect with Thomas, you can email speakforchangepodcast@gmail.com or on Instagram @speakforchangepodcast. You can also download his podcast, Speak For Change with Thomas Sage Pederson, wherever you download podcasts. 

The #TAKECAREHSC campaign is a response to a common parting statement we often say or receive from others —“take care.” In this episode, my guest and Art Therapist, Gabriella Rizkallah, presents ways of reframing the language around taking care and provides us with practical approaches to creating self-care in our day-to-day lives.    To connect with Gabriella, you can find her on social platforms at @nsarttherapy and www.nsarttherapy.com    For more information on the #TakeCareHSC campaign, visit the Halifax Shopping Centre on Instagram at @shophsc

We're back with another coaching cast. In this coaching session, I uncovered a blind spot in my life — the value of being. I'm in the process of learning how to active my inner observer and learning how to surrender to control so that I can focus on being present — in my mind, body and spirit.