The Calgary Sessions podcast sits down with artists, athletes and entrepreneurs to chat about their roots and where they are today. A laid back show with no real script to follow which allows for random stories and usually a few laughs.
Drezus is a Plains Cree hip hop artist and storyteller whose work is rooted in identity, resilience and culture. We talked about what it was like growing up feeling different, carrying anger, and not really knowing where to put it.Hip hop became the place where he figured out how to speak. Not just through music, but through understanding who he was. He's honest about masculinity, fear, ceremony and the work of healing. Nothing polished. Just the reality of shifting from reacting to life to taking responsibility for it.We also get into what it means to carry your roots publicly, how culture shapes confidence, and how success eventually turns into service. It's less about music and more about what happens when you stop hiding who you are.Connect with Drezus:WebsiteTikTokYouTubeConnect with Jeff HumphreysWebsiteInstagramTikTokLinkedInPodcast Location & Production:Off Set Studios
In this episode of The Calgary Sessions, I sit down with Rob McLeod, also known as Frisbee Rob.Rob didn't find his path early. He didn't discover frisbee until after high school, and long before it became his work, teaching and helping others were already part of who he was. We talk about what it's like to grow into something over time, without a clear plan or early certainty.Rob also opens up about losing his mom at 18, and how that kind of loss doesn't always show up as a dramatic turning point. Sometimes it quietly shapes how deeply someone commits to their work, and how they define success for themselves.We spend time on failure too. Not as a lesson, but as a reality. Rob shares what it means to attempt something again and again without immediate results, and how repetition, patience, and self-awareness matter more than talent or recognition.This conversation also touches on the gap between visibility and value. World records and attention don't always translate into stability, and Rob reflects honestly on what it takes to build something that lasts. At its core, this episode is about starting later than expected, questioning your own motivations, and choosing to play the long game.Connect with ”Frisbee Rob” McLeod:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInYouTubeConnect with Jeff HumphreysWebsiteInstagramTikTokLinkedInPodcast Location & Production:Off Set Studios
Templ Brewing co-founder Dane Thorogood shares the hard reset that changed how he shows up at work and at home.His path runs through high-performance sport, family business, and addiction, then into the day-to-day habits that keep him grounded.On the business side, we talk about learning sales through reps, building a scrappy system with people you trust, and growing in the non-alcoholic space without losing the basics.Connect with Dane Thorogood:WebsiteConnect with Jeff HumphreysWebsiteInstagramTikTokLinkedInPodcast Location & Production:Off Set Studios
Felipe Alberto Paredes-Canevari performs Peruvian musica criolla and works in civil litigation.This conversation is about standards. The kind that come from taking the work seriously, whether you are carrying someone's legal problem or stepping on stage with a tradition that has real history behind it. Felipe talks about identity as something shaped by lineage and lived experience, not a story you invent on demand.We get into what clarity actually costs, why preparation is a form of respect, and why “balance” is not the word when two serious crafts are involved. It is a grounded look at craft, responsibility, and what it means to stay honest when the room is paying attention.Connect with our guest, Felipe Alberto:YouTubeInstagramConnect with Jeff HumphreysWebsiteInstagramTikTokLinkedInPodcast Location & Production:Off Set Studios
In this episode of The Calgary Sessions, I sit down with Mike Peace.Mike talks about growing up after immigrating as a kid, experiencing trauma early, and leaving school sooner than expected. He shares how restaurant work led him into tattoo shops, what it was like to learn the craft by watching rather than being taught, and how tattooing has changed over the years.We talk about opening and running a shop, the emotional weight that comes with client-facing work, and the kind of conversations that happen in a tattoo chair. Mike also speaks openly about alcohol addiction, choosing sobriety, and why cycling became a necessary replacement structure in his life. Movement, routine, and showing up consistently play a big role in how he manages his mental health.There's also time spent on community within tattoo culture, working alongside his son, and what it looks like to build a steady life without chasing anything bigger than what's in front of you.Connect with our guest, Mike Peace:WebsiteInstagramConnect with Jeff HumphreysWebsiteInstagramTikTokLinkedInPodcast Location & Production:Off Set Studios
Some businesses grow fast and disappear. Others last through exits, downturns, and restarts.In this episode, Shawn Freeman talks about why relationships are the real structure holding a business together. Not as a value statement, but as something tested through building companies, selling one, stepping away, and starting again.The conversation moves through how trust compounds quietly over time, why repeated friction is often a warning rather than a challenge, and how founders learn to make decisions without forcing outcomes. Shawn shares how confidence, energy, and alignment show up in very practical ways, even for leaders who think analytically.Rather than focusing on tactics or growth strategies, this episode sits with how people think once they've seen businesses succeed and fail up close. It's a reflection on why people follow people, why impact outlasts metrics, and why the businesses that endure are usually built on relationships long before they are built on plans.Connect with our guest, Shawn Freeman:WebsiteLinkedInConnect with Jeff HumphreysWebsiteInstagramTikTokLinkedInPodcast Location & Production:Off Set Studios
Fear shows up quietly. It shapes how we make decisions, how we measure progress, and how long we stay in situations that no longer feel right.In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Laura Hambley Lovett, an organizational psychologist, researcher, and author, to talk about what happens when logic, effort, and planning stop being enough on their own.We explore why life can start to feel like a constant gap, where the horizon keeps moving and progress never quite feels satisfying. Why comparison, noise, and fear distort how we see ourselves and our work. And why intentionally looking back at what you've already built is often the missing piece for clarity and fulfillment.Dr. Laura also shares how trust, intention, and timing play a role in moving forward when certainty isn't available. Not as blind optimism, but as a grounded way of taking the next step with purpose, support, and self-awareness. We talk about fear and risk, entrepreneurship and mindset, and the difference between pushing harder and aligning your energy with work that actually adds value.The conversation also moves into leadership and systems. Why toxic workplaces often persist through avoidance and silence. What compassionate leadership actually looks like in practice. And why honest, difficult conversations are essential for healthy teams and long-term trust.This is a thoughtful, practical conversation about navigating uncertainty, making grounded decisions without guarantees, and learning how to move forward when fear tries to keep you still.Connect with our guest, Dr. Laura:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInConnect with Jeff HumphreysWebsiteInstagramTikTokLinkedInPodcast Location & Production:Off Set Studios
Life doesn't usually offer clarity when you need it.In this episode, reflects on what it means to keep moving forward through uncertainty. From early responsibility and family instability to becoming a husband, father, and leader while still figuring things out, his story unfolds without clean timelines or clear answers.Michael is a Canadian speaker, author, and founder whose work has grown out of lived experience rather than strategy. This conversation explores presence without control, responsibility before readiness, and how meaning often shows up later than the moments that shape us. It's a grounded look at continuing on, not because you're certain, but because life keeps going.Connect with our guest, Michael Chiasson:WebsiteInstagramLinkedInFollow Jeff HumphreysWebsiteInstagramTikTokLinkedInPodcast Location & Production:Off Set Studios
Cassie Hawrysh has lived most of her life in high pressure environments. She grew up around adults, learned responsibility early, and carried that into sport where effort and expectations shaped almost everything she did. When she became one of the top skeleton athletes in the world, the drive that pushed her forwardalso became the thing she had to untangle.This episode looks at what happens when hard work does not lead to the outcome you imagined, and how a person rebuilds when they have to let go of the identity they carried for years. Cassie talks about the pull of ambition, the weight of almost moments, and the slow process of figuring out who she was outside of performance.It is a grounded conversation about pressure, transition, and the reality of starting again in your thirties.Cassie's story is shaped by effort, honesty, and the long path toward a lifethat finally feels like her own.Connect with our guest, Cassie Hawrysh:InstagramWebsite
Some people grow up fast because life demands it. Teika did. She carried responsibility early and learned to pay attention young. That awareness shaped how she understood people, how she stayed steady in difficult moments, and howshe found confidence in structure and discipline long before tattooing entered her life.This episode gets into the experiences that shaped her thinking. The pressure of growing up early. The instinct to read a room because you have to. The discipline built through martial arts. The years spent apprenticing while raising a kid. And how tattooing eventually became the place where all of those traits made sense together.Tattooing is her craft, but the story runs wider. It connects with anyone who has had to grow up early, carry more than people realized, or build their identity through steady work and honest self-understanding.Connect with our guest, Teika Hudson:InstagramWebsiteFollow Jeff HumphreysWebsiteInstagramTikTokLinkedInPodcast Location & Production:Off Set Studios
Success rarely comes from a straight line. Nic Beique built Helcim into one of Canada's most respected fintech companies, but the road that shaped him was full oftiming, luck, perseverance, and the kind of complicated lessons that make you who you are.In this episode, Nic talks openly about the parts of growth people don't see. The doubt that shows up at every level. The moments where confidence fades. The long stretches where you question your path. And the unexpected breaks that only appear after you keep going longer than you thought you could.This conversation is for anyone trying to build something real.Founders, creators, young professionals, and people figuring out the next step in their careers. If you're navigating uncertainty, wrestling with imposter thoughts, or trying to trust your path, Nic's story gives you something to hold on to.Simple, honest insight from someone who has lived every turn of the journey.Connect with our guest, Nic Beique:WebsiteLinkedinFollow Jeff HumphreysWebsiteInstagramTikTokLinkedInPodcast Location & Production:Off Set Studios
What if you don't need a "5-year plan" to be successful?We're all pressured to find our one "passion" and follow a perfect, linear path. But what if that's not how the most interesting careers are built?Laura Naaykens is a former NCAA athlete who, after an injury, found herself in a complete identity crisis. She didn't have a grand plan; she just started... figuring it out. Her journey is a playbook for "accidental" success, showing how she pivoted from sports to "accidentally" founding a data science firm, not by following a passion, but by saying "yes" to problems she didn't know how to solve and then getting good at them.It's a conversation about the power of self-awareness, why competence is more valuable than passion, and how to build a life on your own terms.Connect with our guest,Laura Naaykens:WebsiteLinkedinInstagramFollow Jeff HumphreysWebsiteInstagramTikTokLinkedInPodcast Location & Production:Off Set Studios
Manifestation isn't just "thinking positive." It can be a practical, daily tool, as simple as a specific morning routine—from a cold plunge to how you write in a journal—that you use to run your life and business.These insights come from Brent Boucher, a Calgary entrepreneur whose story is a perfect example of what I call "grey thinking". He built his business from a place of deep personal struggle and uses these tools to navigate the real-world emotional "peaks and valleys" of running a company.This is just one part of a much larger conversation. Hear Brent Boucher's full story on The Calgary Sessions podcast (Episode 178).Listen to the full episodeAppleSpotifyConnect with our guest, Brent Boucher:WebsiteFollow Jeff HumphreysWebsiteInstagramTikTokLinkedInPodcast Location & Production:Off Set Studios
How do you build a life when your childhood is defined by instability?Brent Boucher is a Calgary entrepreneur who built a successful motorcycle shop and finance company from scratch. But his journey started in a place of deep trauma, navigating family mental health crises and leaving school in Grade 11 just to pay the bills.In this conversation, Brent shares the unconventional origin story of his career (which involves a stolen dirt bike) and his core philosophy: you have to seek discomfort to perform at your best. This is a raw conversation about prioritizing grit over talent and building a life by "feeling the end picture" rather than following a rigid plan.Follow The Calgary Sessions podcast for more stories like this.Connect with our guest, Brent Boucher:WebsiteFollow Jeff HumphreysWebsiteInstagramTikTokLinkedInPodcast Location & Production:Off Set Studios
Dr. Matt Brown had his entire life planned: pro football, then medical school. He details the "helmet to helmet" hit that ended his career and the "messy" mental health transition that followed.He discusses the stigma that kept him from seeking help and the pivotal moment he sat on the field and asked, "Who am I without football?"—and heard "deafening... silence."Ep177 Guest: Dr. Matt Brown, Mental Performance CoachHost: Jeff HumphreysWhere to Connect:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@jeffhumphreysInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jeffhumphreysWebsite: https://www.jeffhumphreys.ca
What happens when the one thing that defines you is gone?Dr. Matt Brown had his entire life planned: play pro football, then become a surgeon. But a single helmet-to-helmet hit ended his career, broke his neck, and shattered his identity. In the darkness that followed, he felt "gutted like a fish" and asked himself a question that would change his life: "Who is Matt Brown without football?". The answer was "nobody".That devastating moment was the genesis of his new purpose. Today, Dr. Brown is the mental performance shepherd for Calgary's top athletes, including the Flames and Stampeders.This conversation is a masterclass in the unseen "hardware" and "software" of elite performance. We discuss:• The "Hot Take": Why he believes true competitiveness is a "hardwired" personality trait, not a learned skill . • The Proof: The childhood story that shows how his innate drive got him sent to the principal's office . • The Playbook: How to properly "wield" your competitive drive so it doesn't get you into trouble. • The Non-Negotiable: The scientific reason exercise is "every bit as effective" as antidepressants for mental health . • The Secret: What are "Energy Givers," and why is he scouting for them just as much as talent?Whether you're an athlete, a parent, or a business leader, this episode will challenge your perspective on the drive to win.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caMatt Brown - https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-brown-phdPodcast Location - https://www.offsetstudios.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
What does it take to lose the business you built from scratch and then come back to create an even bigger success? This week, we sit down with Hailey Seidel, the founder of Calgary's luxury pet hotel, The Petropolitan, for a masterclass in resilience, branding, and grit.For 20 years, Hailey has been a force in the pet care industry, but her path was anything but straight. Her journey started by accident when she launched a simple dog walking business to solve a personal need. That small venture quickly exploded, leading her to take a massive risk at age 25: signing a lease on a 20,000-square-foot facility. But just as her business thrived, her personal life entered a period of turmoil that ultimately resulted in her being forced to sell the company she poured her life into. Instead of walking away, Hailey channeled that experience into a new vision, identifying a gap in the market for high-end pet care and building The Petropolitan from the ground up.In this episode, you will learn:• How to turn a personal problem into a viable business idea without a formal plan.• The mindset required to take massive risks, like when Hailey leased a giant warehouse as a 25-year-old entrepreneur.• The unfiltered story of navigating the sale of a business during a difficult personal separation and how to pivot from rock bottom.• Why finding and dominating a niche—like creating "The Fairmont for Dogs"—is a powerful strategy for standing out in a crowded market.• Hailey's "Choose Your Own Adventure" philosophy for embracing wrong turns and building a career on your own terms.This is a raw and honest conversation about the un-glamorous reality of entrepreneurship and what it truly means to have "Calgary Grit".How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caHailey Seidel - https://www.thepetropolitan.caPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
What if the key to unlocking your highest potential wasn't about pushing harder, but about becoming more authentic? My guest this week, Kayti Simonson, shares her profound journey from a high-achieving lawyer and athlete running on adrenaline to a resilient competitor guided by energy and intuition.Kayti is a Calgary-based lawyer and three-time HYROX world championship competitor who seemed to have it all figured out. But after hitting a "brick wall" of burnout , she was forced to confront the emotional suppression that had fueled her success for years. In this raw and honest conversation, Kayti opens up about the messy work of feeling your emotions, why she believes "balance is a myth" for high-performers , and how learning to stop lying to herself became the catalyst for profound change.In this episode, you will learn about:• Kayti's foundational roots in Calgary and the mountains that ground her.• The "Pick Your Hard" philosophy and why she believes luck has nothing to do with success.• The myth of balance and the true cost of high achievement in athletics and law.• Hitting the "brick wall": The story of Kayti's burnout and the decision to finally face her emotions .• The journey from a self-described "control freak" to learning the power of surrender.• Her belief that authenticity is directly linked to the energy you put out into the world.This conversation is a powerful reminder that sometimes, the biggest breakthroughs come after the biggest breakdowns.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caKayti Simonson - https://www.instagram.com/kaytisimonsonPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
I've always been fascinated by the moments that change everything. Not the big goals we set, but the unexpected turns that truly define us. My guest this week, Cari Din, calls these powerful moments "interruptions".Cari is an Olympic silver medalist in artistic swimming and an award-winning Kinesiology professor. She was incredibly open about her journey, from the intense focus of being an elite athlete to the disorienting identity crisis that hit after leaving the pool for good. She described her life going from a single, straight arrow to "hundreds of tiny arrows that had no direction".In our conversation, we chatted about:• The mindset of a "quiet competitor" and the joy of outworking the competition.• What happens when your entire identity disappears overnight.• Building a "Bank of Trust" to become a more effective leader.• Why parenting is harder than winning an Olympic medal.• How to find a new purpose when you feel completely lost.This is an honest look at resilience, reinvention, and what it truly means to build a life on your own terms. It's a conversation that will stick with you.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caCari Din - https://profiles.ucalgary.ca/cari-dinPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
What if the biggest risks lead to the most meaningful rewards? My guest this week, Christine Goudie, is the definition of that question. As the Co-founder and CEO of Granville Biomedical, she has forged a unique path driven by a desire to use her design skills for good, starting with a one-way ticket out of Newfoundland with just $250 in her pocket.In our chat, Christine took me through her incredible journey through multiple cities, schools, and startups, all in pursuit of a career with purpose. We explored the pivotal moments that shaped her mission to serve overlooked communities—from a bar conversation that sparked a passion for designing innovative wheelchair seating to co-founding a company that tackles taboos in women's health. Her story is a powerful lesson in the relentless, unsexy grind of building something that matters and the mental shift required to turn fear into fuel.In this episode, we cover:• Leaving home with only $250 and no safety net. • Her "pie-eating contest" analogy for the entrepreneurial grind. • The pivotal pub chat that changed her entire career path. • Tackling taboos in women's health with Granville Biomedical. • Shifting from a fear of failure to asking, "But what if it works out?". If you're looking for a dose of real, unfiltered inspiration to chase your own thing, this episode is for you.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caChristine Goudie - https://www.granvillebiomedical.caPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
What does it mean to shape ideas for a living?In this episode, Shelley reflects on what it takes to shape meaningful ideas, how to trust your gut in creative decisions, and what it feels like to stay curious over time. Her stories reveal how culture takes shape through consistent and thoughtful choices.A few themes that run through the episode:• Creating space for conversations that matter• Making decisions under pressure and scrutiny• Trusting instinct without needing validation• Why live storytelling still resonates• How Calgary shapes and challenges creative people• What curiosity looks like later in lifeA thoughtful look at creative leadership, culture, and staying engaged with the world around you.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caShelley Youngblut - www.instagram.com/youngblutshelleyPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
Jamie Parker didn't plan to become an entrepreneur. He worked a lot of jobs, spent time on wildfire crews, and started roasting coffee in a garage before anything looked like a business.That business became Canadian Heritage Roasting Company.This episode isn't about overnight success. It's about figuring things out by doing the work, staying committed when there's no clear payoff, and navigating personal challenges along the way.We talked about building something from scratch, learning without a roadmap, and the quiet moments that shape what comes next.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caJamie Parker - https://canadianheritageroastingco.comPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
Marco Carducci is still in the game, competing at a high level, leading on and off the field, and figuring it out as he goes. In this episode, Marco reflects on what it took to make it in pro soccer, what nearly pulled him away from it, and how he's found a healthier way to thrive without losing himself in the process.He opens up about growing up in Calgary, the pressures of early success, the identity trap many athletes face, and the quiet moments that helped him reset. From youth academies to the Canadian Premier League, Marco's story is one of early sacrifice, personal growth, and learning how to play the long game in sport and in life.Whether you're an athlete, a parent, or someone navigating high-performance environments, there's something in this story for you.We talk about:• How identity affects performance and longevity• Lessons from burnout, pressure, and purpose|• The rise of soccer in Calgary and across Canada• The balance between chasing wins and building impact• What it means to lead while still learningIt's a grounded look at what it takes to keep showing up, stay connected, and build something that lasts.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caMarco Carducci - https://www.instagram.com/mcarducci96Podcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
Trent McClellan didn't step on stage until he was 30. No plan, no roadmap. Just a feeling he couldn't ignore.We talked about what it took to go from a full-time day job to late-night open mics, touring small towns across Alberta, and eventually landing on 22 Minutes. Trent shared the less visible side of his career. The mental discipline. The self-doubt. The pressure to define success without tying your identity to it.This episode touches on creative risk, purpose, men's mental health, and what it means to trust yourself when there's nothing to prove it will work.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caTrent McClellan - https://trentscomedy.comPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
Crystal was chasing the Olympics when she was diagnosed with MS. What came next was unexpected, but the way she handled it shaped everything that followed.In this episode, we talked about competing at a high level, what it's like to face a sudden diagnosis, and why Crystal started rethinking the healthcare system from the inside. We also got into the early days of the Branch Out Foundation and the mindset shift that helped her turn a personal challenge into something bigger.This one's about resilience, curiosity, and what happens when you follow your instincts, even when the path isn't clear.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caCrystal Phillips - https://branchoutfoundation.comPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
Dr. Karen MacNeill and I talk about what it really takes to perform under pressure. Whether you're an athlete, leader, or just someone trying to keep it together in tough moments.She shares honest stories about setbacks, the mindset shift from fear to freedom, and how mental fitness makes the difference when it counts. We talk about resilience, finding balance, and why clarity and purpose matter more than ever.This one's for anyone curious about high-pressure performance, real leadership, and navigating the twists and turns of personal growth.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caDr. Karen MacNeill - https://macneillperformance.comPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
Ross has done a lot in his life: firefighter, nurse, musician, speaker, and now the host of a TV show. What really stood out was how all those parts of his story came together.We talked about service, identity, and the tension between being who you are and who you're expected to be. Ross shared what it's like to discover his Métis roots later in life, the lessons that come from frontline work, and how music gave him space to finally be himself.If you've ever tried to balance different sides of who you are, or felt like you didn't fit into just one box, this one hits home.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caRoss MEMPHIS Pambrun - https://rosspambrun.caPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
I sat down with Nicole Robertson, a journalist and founder of Muskwa Productions, to talk about where her voice comes from and how she's used it to tell hard stories for nearly 30 years.With Cree and Scottish roots, she spoke about growing up between cultures and the early experiences that shaped her sense of identity. We talked about the loss of her childhood friend Neil Stonechild, her early reporting on residential school survivors, and why she built a media company to ensure Indigenous stories are told by the people living them. She also shared how grounding practices, time in nature, and ceremony help her stay connected to the work.The episode explores journalism, identity, responsibility, and the long path to telling stories that matter.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caNicole Robertson - https://muskwaproductions.comPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
In this episode, I sit down with Emma Harding, a voice coach and artist development expert who grew up backstage in the British rock scene and later built a creative life in Calgary.We get into what it really means to unlock your true voice, how healing your past can change your performance, and why community matters more than chasing perfection.We also talk about ADHD, imposter syndrome, and the impact of neuroscience and trauma on creativity.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caEmma Harding - https://www.rockitvocalstudios.comPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
Daniel Plenzik built a steady career as an electrical engineer before deciding to leave it behind. What started as a personal passion for winemaking turned into a full-on commitment to craft spirits, leading to a Calgary distillery that quietly produced the best brandy in the world.We talked about what it really takes to step away from security, how long-term thinking shapes every decision, and why building something meaningful often means doing it the hard way.This one's about passion, patience, and choosing to build something most people won't notice until much later.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caDaniel Plenzik - https://bridgelanddistillery.comPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
Tom has built a life around work ethic, stability, and solving big problems. But in recent years, he started asking harder questions about what he actually wanted—and whether the safe path was still the right one.In this episode, we talk about what it means to walk away from structure, how creativity shows up in business, and why being second-in-command can be a strength. Tom opens up about the cost of doing things you're good at but don't love, the pull to make art later in life, and the tension between building stability and chasing truth.We also get into imposter syndrome, abstract art in Calgary, and how AI might shape the future of leadership.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caTom McCaffery - https://tworiver.caPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
Dan Allard helped start Cold Garden, one of Calgary's most recognizable breweries.In this episode, we talk about how it came together, what drove the decisions behind it, and why building something a little different felt important. It's a look at business, identity, and what it means to create something that reflects your values.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caDan Allard -https://coldgarden.caPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
I didn't know Scott before this episode, but his story left a mark. He built Crescent Point from scratch, led for 18 years, and eventually stepped away. We talked about the pressure of being a young CEO, the impact of government policy on Calgary's energy sector, and the moments where everything could've gone sideways.What stood out most was how much of his leadership style came from unlikely places—NHL locker rooms, family dinner tables, and quiet conversations with mentors. He built a culture where trust wasn't just a word, and he's still applying those lessons today as an entrepreneur, mentor, and now a published author.This one covers a lot: leadership, letting go, risk, reinvention, writing, and why culture really does matter. Especially when it's built on friendship.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caScott Saxberg - https://scottsaxberg.comPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
Most careers follow a straight path. Kathy Macdonald's didn't.She started as a fitness instructor, then became a police officer, then a cybercrime expert and keynote speaker. At every turn, she faced setbacks—like failing the police fitness test twice—but kept pushing forward.We talk about reinvention, resilience, and how small decisions lead to unexpected careers. Kathy shares how policing shaped her, why public speaking became her next challenge, and why most people hesitate before taking life-changing opportunities.This conversation was about adapting, pushing through failure, and recognizing the moments that shape us.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caKathy Macdonald - https://kathymacdonald.caPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
Kate Ryan's path wasn't typical. Growing up in a turbulent home, she learned early how to adapt and figure things out on her own. At 16, she left, chasing something bigger than the life she knew. That decision took her across the world, where she discovered circus arts, built a career, and eventually founded her own entertainment company.We get into what it takes to carve out a creative career from nothing—the struggle, the setbacks, and the relentless work behind the highlight reel. Kate shares what it was like navigating the gig economy, competing in an industry that prioritizes hustle over stability, and learning to balance passion with sustainability.A conversation about resilience, trust, and the mindset it takes to build a life on your own terms.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caKate Ryan- https://www.kateryancircus.comPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
In Episode 157 of The Calgary Sessions, I sit down with Calgary-based artist Amy Dryer for a real conversation about the creative process, self-doubt, and building a career in art. We talk about the early experiences that shaped her, the discipline she carried over from sports, and the persistence needed to carve out space in a competitive industry.Amy shares what it's like to balance creativity with the realities of making a living, and how she found confidence in her work over time.This episode is an honest look at the ups and downs of being an artist and what it takes to keep going.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caAmy Dryer - http://www.fragmentsofsoul.comPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
In this episode of The Calgary Sessions, I sit down with Alex Kingcott, a prominent figure in Calgary's arts and public relations scene. Alex shares her journey from a theatre enthusiast to the founder of a leading PR agency, offering insights into the unexpected paths that passion can lead us down.We chat about her experiences transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship, the challenges of promoting live events in an evolving media landscape, and the importance of community in business growth. Alex also reflects on overcoming imposter syndrome and the significance of strategic storytelling in the arts.This conversation sheds light on the intersection of arts and business in Calgary, providing valuable perspectives for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, public relations, and the vibrant arts community.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caAlex Kingcott - https://shareworthy.caPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
In this episode, I sat down with Musap 'Moose' Abde to talk about the realities of struggle, resilience, and finding purpose when life doesn't go as planned. His story isn't a straight line—it's filled with setbacks, tough decisions, and moments that could've gone either way.We talked about what it's like growing up between cultures, facing failure head-on, and why the hardest experiences often teach the most valuable lessons.Moose shared how he navigated everything from family challenges to starting over more than once, and how those experiences shaped his mindset around success. This isn't a story about overnight change—it's about the small, often uncomfortable steps it takes to figure out who you are and what really matters.How To Connect:Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.caMoose -https://siys.caPodcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.caPodcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
Tim Hunter spent 16 seasons in the NHL, most of them with the Calgary Flames, where he made his mark as an enforcer. In this episode, we talk about what it takes to play that role, the shift from player to coach, and the lessons that stick long after the game ends. Tim shares stories from his time protecting teammates like Theo Fleury, what he learned about leadership in the locker room, and how discipline and work ethic shaped his career. We also get into what makes a team culture work and why some players succeed while others fade out. It's an inside look at the game from a guy who's lived it at every level. How To Connect: Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.ca Podcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.ca Podcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
Duff Gibson shares his unique journey to Olympic gold—one built on lessons learned from failure, persistence, and self-awareness. We talk about how his path through multiple sports shaped his mindset, the importance of finding the right fit, and the powerful role of mental fitness. We also dive into his thoughts on youth sports today—why early specialization is a problem, how fun drives true growth, and what parents and coaches get wrong. From balancing life as a firefighter, coach, and athlete to creating meaningful change in how we approach sport, Duff's story offers lessons that go far beyond the podium. How To Connect: Jeff Humphreys - https://www.jeffhumphreys.ca Duff Gibson - https://www.darkhorseathletic.ca Podcast Location - https://www.modelmilk.ca Podcast Production - https://www.shortlinecreative.com
In this episode, I sit down with Brian Keating, a lifelong naturalist and explorer, to talk about what decades of adventures in nature can teach us about life. From birdwatching as a curious kid to leading conservation efforts at the Calgary Zoo, Brian shares fascinating stories and lessons learned along the way. We discuss the transformative power of connecting with nature, the mental clarity it provides, and why protecting intact ecosystems is more urgent than ever. Brian reflects on his experiences in the Arctic, the Rockies, and beyond, offering a unique perspective on the beauty and challenges of the wild. This conversation explores themes of personal growth, finding purpose, and how small moments—like watching a bird in your backyard—can lead to a lifetime of discovery. How To Connect: Jeff Humphreys - www.jeffhumphreys.ca Brian Keating - www.goingwild.org Podcast Location - www.modelmilk.ca Podcast Production - www.shortlinecreative.com
In this episode of The Calgary Sessions, I sit down with Alvin Law, a Hall of Fame speaker whose story challenges assumptions and reshapes perspectives. Born without arms due to thalidomide, Alvin shares how he turned what many saw as a limitation into a life filled with creativity, impact, and connection. We explore his upbringing in rural Saskatchewan, where community and his foster parents instilled a mindset of independence and possibility. Alvin reflects on his journey as a musician, his passion for jazz, and the mentors who helped him thrive in unexpected ways. He talks about the pivotal role of humor, the realities of navigating a world not built for him, and his thoughts on how face-to-face interactions shape genuine human connection. Alvin's story isn't about overcoming—it's about creating a life that fits you, on your own terms. Whether it's his perspective on the history of thalidomide, his shift from radio to public speaking, or his take on staying curious and present, this conversation offers honest insights into what it means to live fully. How To Connect: Jeff Humphreys - www.jeffhumphreys.ca Alvin Law - www.alvinlaw.com Podcast Location - www.modelmilk.ca Podcast Production - www.shortlinecreative.com
DJ Kav has been a name in Calgary's music scene for decades. In this episode, we explore his journey from sneaking time on his brother's turntables to becoming a mainstay in clubs, radio, and festivals. Kav shares how the music industry has changed, the lessons learned from old-school DJing, and the challenges of staying true to himself in a world of constant shifts. We get into what it means to make a living doing what you love, balancing creative passions with life's responsibilities, and navigating the highs and lows of a career that's as unpredictable as it is rewarding. From the revival of old-school jams to the evolution of DJ culture, this conversation dives deep into the realities behind the music. If you're curious about the intersection of passion, persistence, and adaptability in the music world, this episode is for you. How To Connect: Jeff Humphreys - www.jeffhumphreys.ca DJ Kav - www.djkav.com Podcast Location - www.modelmilk.ca Podcast Production - www.shortlinecreative.com
How do food, family, and intuition shape the life you choose to live? Roni Zaide is a food storyteller. Her journey begins in small-town Israel, where family meals and childhood experiments in the kitchen sparked her love of cooking. From there, life took her across the globe — to Philadelphia, Mexico, Calgary, and places in between — following her gut and finding her own path. In this episode, we talk about how food became her love language, why intuition is worth trusting, and the experiences that shaped her as a storyteller. Roni shares how growing up in a home full of food and stories influenced her life, what traveling taught her about people and herself, and how trusting her gut helped her navigate both challenges and opportunities. It's a conversation about family, food, travel, and the lessons you learn when you decide to live life on your terms. How To Connect: Jeff Humphreys - www.jeffhumphreys.ca Roni Zaide - www.roniskitchen.com Podcast Location - www.modelmilk.ca Podcast Production - www.shortlinecreative.com
What does it take to bridge the gap between technology, leadership, and lessons learned in unexpected places? Mark Little grew up in Calgary with a love for technology and curiosity. Early lessons from the restaurant industry shaped his approach to leadership, guiding him through roles as CEO of Suncor and now as Co-Founder of Joston. In this episode, we talk about how those early experiences laid the foundation for his success, the lessons he learned managing risk and complexity, and why connecting people across silos creates real opportunities. We also touch on Calgary's growth, the role of curiosity in problem-solving, and the power of diverse perspectives in driving change. How To Connect: Jeff Humphreys - www.jeffhumphreys.ca Mark Little - www.jotson.com Podcast Location - www.modelmilk.ca Podcast Production - www.shortlinecreative.com
What does it mean to see the world through an artist's eyes? Sheila Kernan is a Calgary-based artist whose journey has been shaped by a creative upbringing, a love for experimentation, and a deep connection to the imperfect beauty of life. In this episode, we explore Sheila's path from her inventive childhood to her career as a professional artist. We talk about how her mother's resourcefulness influenced her creative spirit, the power of mentors who pushed her to embrace her potential, and the impact of travel on her artistic perspective. Sheila also shares her thoughts on failure, learning through mistakes, and why imperfections often make the most meaningful art. This is a conversation about creativity, exploration, and finding inspiration in the everyday. How To Connect: Jeff Humphreys - www.jeffhumphreys.ca Sheila Kernan - www.sheilakernan.com Podcast Location - www.modelmilk.ca Podcast Production - www.shortlinecreative.com
How do relationships shape our careers and the communities we call home? In this episode, I sit down with Eric Francis, a well-known sports columnist and analyst with Sportsnet. We talk about his journey from the Calgary Sun to Sportsnet, how his love for sports turned into a career, and the big moments that shaped his path—like covering the Olympics and Tiger Woods during his prime. Eric also shares why Calgary feels like a city of opportunity to him, the unique sense of community here, and how he's giving back through the Eric Francis Pizza Pigout, an annual event supporting KidSport Calgary. It's a fun mix of stories, insights, and reflections on sports, media, and the power of connection. How To Connect: Jeff Humphreys - www.jeffhumphreys.ca Eric Francis - x.com/ericfrancis Podcast Location - www.modelmilk.ca Podcast Production - www.shortlinecreative
How does a lifelong love for sports lead to a meaningful career in medicine? Ian Auld is a sports medicine physician, founder of Group 23 Sports Medicine, and Medical Director for the Calgary Flames. Growing up in a family that valued sports and discipline, Ian's path evolved from playing sports to building a practice where he could combine his passion for sports with a purpose-driven approach to medicine. In this chat, Ian shares what it means to build confidence from within, how family values shaped his career, and the importance of mental strength for high-performing athletes. He also talks about raising his own kids with lessons on hard work, self-discipline, and finding balance in a world that often demands extremes. This episode shows how purpose isn't something you find by chance—it's something you build through the choices you make. How To Connect: Jeff Humphreys - www.jeffhumphreys.ca Ian Auld - www.group23.ca/specialists Podcast Location - www.modelmilk.ca Podcast Production - www.shortlinecreative.com
Why do we often push ourselves to fit into black-and-white thinking, even when life is full of grey areas? Sandra Wigg is an author, coach, and lifelong learner who believes in the power of ‘grey thinking'—seeing beyond absolutes and letting go of the pressure to always have things figured out. Her journey from a science-driven career in geology to coaching and writing is shaped by years of learning to trust herself, especially when facing life's toughest challenges. In our chat, Sandra and I dig into topics like the role of external validation and how it holds us back, why high achievers often burn out, and what it really means to build confidence from within. We talk about the lessons Sandra took from her work with high-performance athletes and how she uses them now to help others find purpose, peace, and perspective. This episode explores how shifting from ‘right or wrong' to a more balanced view can open up possibilities in our lives. How To Connect: Jeff Humphreys - www.jeffhumphreys.ca Sandra Wigg - www.sandrawigg.com Podcast Location - www.modelmilk.ca Podcast Production - www.shortlinecreative.com
What does it mean to lead by being real and staying curious? Christine Dagenais is the founder and CEO of Bright Wire Leadership. In this episode, we talk about how she went from a corporate career to building her own business, all while keeping people and purpose at the center. Christine shares how early family influences and her love of travel shaped her approach to leadership, bringing together values like authenticity and adventure. We chat about what makes strong leadership today—things like building trust, listening well, and showing up as your true self. Christine's perspective sheds light on the power of ‘soft skills' that aren't so soft when it comes to real impact. We explore how personal values drive her work and why staying grounded in who you are is key to leading well. This conversation offers a look at leadership that feels relatable and real, especially for anyone interested in bringing more meaning into their work. How To Connect: Jeff Humphreys -www.jeffhumphreys.ca Christine Dagenais - www.christinedagenais.com Podcast Location - www.modelmilk.ca Podcast Production - www.shortlinecreative.com
What drives a champion's mindset—raw skill or relentless determination? In this episode, I sit down with Lisa 'Longball' Vlooswyk, an 8-time Canadian Long Drive Champion who transformed setbacks into stepping stones. Starting in gymnastics, Lisa later found her calling in golf, teaching herself the sport and breaking barriers along the way. We get into her path of resilience, the role of family values, and the challenges of navigating a male-dominated sport. Lisa shares insights on the power of self-belief, embracing new challenges, and pushing past limitations. This one's for those intrigued by grit, ambition, and the mindset of a true competitor. How To Connect: Jeff Humphreys - www.jeffhumphreys.ca Lisa 'Longball' Vlooswyk - www.lisalongball.com Podcast Location - www.modelmilk.ca Podcast Production - www.shortlinecreative.com
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