When Kathy Wagner’s son, Tristan, began experimenting with drugs at the age of 14, she told herself it was just a phase. But by the time he was 15, she had to face the gravity of Tristan’s addiction. Kathy opens up about the early signs that her son was at risk, the grief of losing him to an accidental fentanyl overdose, and how she began healing while writing her book, Here With You: A Memoir of Love, Family, and Addiction.

After working with people from all walks of life, psychotherapist Katherine Morgan Schafler realized something – from addiction recovery houses to Wall Street boardrooms, perfectionism was everywhere. She began to wonder: What if it were actually a healthy part of being human? The author of The Perfectionist’s Guide to Losing Control discusses the five different types of perfectionists and how to cultivate healthy perfectionism to live with less guilt and more happiness.

From her first period at the age of 11, author Charlene Carr was plunged into a cycle of pain. But it was only many years later, when she was struggling to conceive, that she finally received a diagnosis of endometriosis – a condition in which uterine cells grow in other areas of the body. She discusses how her life has been shaped by the disease, what she wants other women to know about their health, and how she turned her painful experiences into a source of inspiration for her bestselling novels.

We welcome back Psychiatrist and TELUS Chief Neuroscience Officer, Dr. Diane McIntosh, to help us explore the complicated world of burnout. Dr. McIntosh speaks openly about her personal experience with burnout and shares how we can identify and then break out of a harmful cycle.

Adriana Barton, best-selling author of Wired for Music, spent 17 years of her life as a cellist, entrenched in the demanding world of elite classical music, before leaving it for a career in health and science journalism. She shares how she rediscovered her passion for music, what she learned about its remarkable effects on our emotional and psychological health, and how we can all use our inherent musicality to live happier, healthier lives.

As an award-winning journalist, Angela Sterritt is passionate about shedding light on racism and discrimination faced by Indigenous peoples and helping give voice to the underrepresented. She talks about the challenges of trauma-informed reporting, her mixed Gitxsan and settler heritage, and how she’s exploring the topic of Indigenous identity through her new podcast, Land Back.

Roee Ben-Eli loves being a nurse – but thinks health practitioners are going through a tough time right now as we continue to wade through the pandemic. The Director of Strategic Programs at TELUS Virtual Healthcare discusses how new technologies can transform the patient and care experience, why we need to integrate new ideas and models into patient care, and what you can do to help relieve pressure on one of our greatest professions.

Lise Birikundavyi, the first Black woman to head a venture capital fund backed by an institutional investor in Canada, shares how to help build successful entrepreneur-led businesses, deliver returns to investors and increase diversity in the venture capital ecosystem.

Dr. Aubrey Fine often calls on some special assistants skilled in supporting mental health and well-being: animals. The leading expert in human-animal interactions shares his journey from dog-phobic child to dog-loving adult, the science of why spending time with animals is good for you, and how just a few minutes of watching critters on-screen can bring some calm to your life.

Trauma doesn’t just live in the mind, it’s also stored in the body. That’s the message shared by clinical psychologist Dr. Arielle Schwartz, creator of Resilience-Informed therapy, who shares her wisdom about releasing the pain of the past to enjoy a more joyful and resilient future.

Spending time in nature doesn’t just feel good – it’s also good for you, says Vancouver-based physician Dr. Melissa Lem. The founder and director of PaRx, a nature prescription initiative with the BC Parks Foundation, discusses the physical, emotional and mental health benefits of spending time in nature and why you might just leave your next check-up with a prescription for the outdoors.

Clinical psychologist Dr. Miriam Kirmayer is passionate about helping people build stronger, healthier social connections. One of the only licenced clinical psychologists to specialize in friendship therapy, she shares her insights on how to combat loneliness, why not everyone needs a BFF, and how conflict can actually strengthen a friendship.

Tara McGuire, author of Holden, After and Before, experienced every parent’s nightmare when her 21-year-old son, Holden, died of an overdose in 2015. She shares how she wrestled with guilt, how she keeps her son’s memory alive – and how she transformed her grief into meaning.

President and CEO of the Forest Products Association of Canada, Derek Nighbor, shares how sustainable forest management practices are leading to big gains for our economy, our communities and the planet. He discusses exciting developments in carbon-capture building materials, how sustainable forest management is supporting Indigenous reconciliation – and what really goes into the price of a 2x4.

Canadian Premier League soccer goalkeeper Marco Carducci is an elite athlete – but despite being the picture of health he was diagnosed with testicular cancer earlier this year at the young age of 25. Now that he’s successfully completed treatment, he’s passionate about encouraging other young men to recognize the signs of cancer and to seek out medical help early. He joins us to talk about his health journey, his newfound passion for health advocacy, and what the experience of this past year has taught him about life – on and off the soccer pitch.

Clinical child psychologist and best-selling author of Raising Human Beings, Dr. Ross Greene, returns to share insights on supporting our kids in a post-pandemic world. He talks about creating the evidence-based Collaboration & Proactive Solutions (CPS) model of care, what’s behind an increase in behavioural challenges in schools – and why caregivers need to replace fear and punishment with collaboration and compassion.

Psychotherapist, grief expert and bestselling author of Every Family Has a Story, Julia Samuel, says healthy grieving can lead to growth. The UK’s leading grief expert, who remains close to Prince William and Prince Harry, shares how families can support one another through loss, how to speak with children about death, and why allowing yourself to experience the pain of grief can connect you to greater healing, joy and love.

Clinical counselor Kelly McDaniel, author of Mother Hunger, discusses why secure maternal attachment in childhood is critical to emotional health and well-being in adulthood. She shares how societal pressures and patriarchal attitudes have hindered women’s natural mothering instincts, how “mother hunger” can affect women’s adult relationships, and how to break the cycle of trauma to enjoy greater health and well-being.

Award-winning writer, digital entrepreneur and therapist Erin Falconer, author of How To Break Up With Your Friends, shares insights and tips on how to nurture healthy, supportive friendships – and how to set healthy boundaries. The founder of PickTheBrain.com discusses the importance of building authentic connections with people, how to show up as a better friend, and how to recognize when it’s time to say goodbye.

Science journalist and author Catherine Price thinks it’s time you had more fun – for your own good. The author of The Power of Fun and How to Break Up With Your Phone explains how experiencing moments of playfulness, connection and flow can lead to a happier, healthier and more productive life. She shares the benefits of fun, and gives some tips about how adults and children alike can get more of it by setting healthy boundaries with technology.

Since September 16, Iran has been engulfed in waves of women-led protests, sparked by the death of 22-year old Mahsa Amini after she was arrested by the country’s morality police for improperly wearing a hijab. Canadian-raised Jasmin Ramsey, Deputy Director of the New York City-based Center for Human Rights in Iran, takes us through the country’s turbulent history, shares stories of the brave Iranian women and men who are fighting for freedom, and calls on the international community to support this unprecedented movement against oppression.

Clayton Thomas-Müller found healing in his Cree heritage, and now he’s working to heal the earth. The best-selling author of Life in the City of Dirty Water, and award-winning director of the documentary of the same name, is an internationally recognized activist for Indigenous rights and the environment. He shares his journey through intergenerational trauma, his transition from fighting gang life to fighting for human rights – and how Indigenous knowledge can help us all address climate change.

Radiologist and patient advocate Dr. Paula Gordon is on a mission. The former Director of the Breast Program at BC Women’s Hospital is a tireless champion for improving breast cancer screening for women across Canada. In this eye-opening discussion that every woman needs to hear, she explains why early screening and detection is critical, why all women should perform breast self-exams – and how patients hold the power to change the current system.

World-renowned physician and author Dr. Gabor Maté has devoted his life to helping others heal – from illness, addiction, childhood trauma, and more. Now, in his new book, The Myth of Normal, he reveals why it’s time for Western society to heal itself from toxic cultural stresses. He shares his insights into why loneliness, inequity and chronic stress have taken a physical toll on our bodies and minds, and how we can find our way to health and healing by reconnecting with our natural human instincts.

On the outside, Dr. Shefali Tsabary looks like she has it all: a full family life, and a thriving career as a renowned psychologist and bestselling author. But she had a radical awakening when she realized she had been living her life in response to external pressures and validation. She shares her journey to living a more authentic life, her insights on conscious parenting, and dissects the messaging and narratives that hold women back from living fully and freely.

When his nine-year-old daughter started displaying symptoms of anxiety during the pandemic, Dr. Matthew Chow’s work in child and adolescent psychiatry took on a whole new level of urgency. In this frank discussion, the former president of Doctors of BC opens up about his family’s mental health journey, his passion for supporting young people and his optimism about the resiliency and open mindedness of the next generation.

Getting ready for a job interview is full of stress, but for a young adult with ADHD, says our guest Dr. Elisabeth Hall, the anxiety can be compounded by the challenges of misplacing items on the way out the door – and then missing the bus. Dr. Hall, a psychiatrist and founding medical director of the Vancouver Coastal Health Adult ADHD Clinic, shares insights on recognizing and supporting kids and adults with ADHD, what to do if you’re concerned – and how to find help if you need it.

With a background in the arts and sciences, and steeped in the traditions of both Anishinaabe and European cultures, Dr. Lisa Richardson brings a unique perspective to her role as a clinician-educator and associate Dean of Inclusion & Diversity at the University of Toronto. A tireless advocate for equal access to health care, she explores how traditional teachings and artistic principles can provide a more holistic perspective of the patient experience.

When it launched in March 2020, the RepresentAsian Project quickly attracted attention as a voice for the frustrations and joys of being Asian in North America. Its founder, journalist and therapist Madelyn Chung, a second-generation Chinese Canadian, discusses why she felt moved to create the online platform, the emotional and psychological impacts of anti-Asian racism – and why now, more than ever, we need to celebrate the diversity and pride of the Asian diaspora.

Medical device engineer Derek Sham was shocked that no one was properly addressing the pelvic floor disorder his grandmother experienced. As she went through failed treatments and surgeries, he vowed to prevent more women suffering the same fate. With his company Cosm, Sham is using data-driven diagnostics to create personalized prosthetics for pelvic floor disorders. He discusses the high prevalence of the issue, his grandmother’s legacy, and why we must address the stigma around gynecological health.

In her book, Kiss the Red Stairs, Marsha Lederman wrestles with the dark history of the Holocaust that haunted her childhood, uncovering details about her parents’ survival and the ways their trauma lives on in her own life. In this week’s episode, Lederman discusses the miracle of her own existence, the real impacts of intergenerational trauma, and why the memory of the Holocaust must be kept alive.

In 2015, award-winning photographer, activist and entrepreneur Maayan Ziv had a eureka moment after confronting stairs at a restaurant. Maayan, who has muscular dystrophy, was forced to navigate her wheelchair through a back alley filled with garbage bins to join her group. That experience inspired her to create Access Now, a popular app for finding and rating accessibility in cities around the world. She shares her journey from artist to entrepreneur, and why accessibility matters for everyone.

At the age of 8, Lex Gillette received devastating news: he was going blind. Over the course of a few months, he lost all of his sight – but not his vision. Thanks to the support of his mother and grandmother, he not only defied expectations, but surpassed them. The athlete, author and motivational speaker discusses his path to becoming one of the world’s most decorated Paralympians, and shares his powerful message for how everyone can soar to great heights.

Chenny’s picked a big challenge for herself…creating a more equitable healthcare system. In this episode, Tamara joins CEO of Gotcare, Chenny in a conversation about how virtual healthcare providers are transforming how home care is delivered. It isn’t just systems that need to change but the culture that surrounds them. Learn how Gotcare utilizes patent-pending technology to enable increased patient access, reduce the cost of delivery, pay frontline workers.

The classic image of the sleepy teen who can barely get out of bed isn’t just a tired cliché. It also captures a very real and urgent problem in our society, say sleep consultants and psychotherapists Heather Turgeon and Julie Wright. The bestselling authors of The Happy Sleeper and Generation Sleepless join Tamara to discuss the hidden epidemic of sleeplessness among high schoolers, why that’s a concern, and what needs to change so we can all enjoy the health benefits of a good night’s sleep.

Faced with a lack of diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry, award-winning Canadian TV director and screenwriter Nathalie Younglai decided to do something about it. The founder of BIPOC TV and Film shares her journey from harpist to creator, the changes that need to happen in the screen industry, and the small steps we can each take to help push for an entertainment industry that reflects us all.

Alvin Law has an enviable career as one of Canada’s most sought-after inspirational speakers and bestselling author, and enjoys a loving family life. But in 1960, when he was born without arms as a result of the infamous morning sickness medication thalidomide, many viewed his future success as impossible. He sits down with Tamara to share his passion for challenging labels, discuss his incredible life story from abandoned infant to two-time Hall of Famer – and show off his amazing drumming skills.

For author Melissa Febos, memoir isn’t just personal – it’s political, powerful and transformative. The associate professor at the University of Iowa and bestselling author of four books, including Girlhood and Body Work, sits down with Tamara for an intimate discussion about confronting societal taboos; sparking necessary conversations about women’s bodies and sexuality; and why sharing shame and trauma can build, and heal, community.

Over the past decade, award-winning reporter Brandi Morin has been sharing stories from the frontlines of Indigenous issues, helping to spark change and Reconciliation. The self-described justice journalist and author of Our Voice of Fire sits down with Tamara to share her journey from teenage runaway to renowned reporter, her traumatic experience as a survivor of gender-based violence and why the work of healing is essential for us all.

Since its creation in 1876, the Indian Act in Canada has shaped, controlled, and constrained the lives and opportunities of Indigenous Peoples and is at the root of systemic racism in this country. Today, Bob Joseph, the bestselling author of 21 Things You May Not Know About the Indian Act, joins Tamara in a discussion about understanding the Act and its far-reaching effects while exploring ways to dismantle it for good.

From catastrophic flooding and deadly wildfires to life-threatening heat domes and crop failures, the effects of climate change are being felt around the globe. And, as Dr. Britt Wray, author of Generation Dread, tells Tamara, it’s taking a toll on our mental health. In this week’s discussion, the postdoctoral fellow at Stanford University and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine shares insights on shedding the doom and overcoming eco-anxiety – and why our planet’s future depends on it.

Born and raised in Haida Gwaii, Terri-Lynn Williams-Davidson is many things: a member of the Raven Clan from the Haida Nation, an award-winning singer, a prominent environmental lawyer and an activist. But, as she explains to Tamara, she simply calls herself an advocate for the earth and culture. She shares how she brings her unique perspective to her wide-ranging work, from her musical collaborations with rock star Bill Henderson to her historic legal victories for Indigenous People’s rights.

An unexpected conversation about standing up against violence can lead to more awareness. On today’s episode, Tamara meets David Stevenson, the CEO of the Moose Hide Campaign. The program started 10 years ago as a way for men to symbolize their support for ending violence against Indigenous women, by pinning a piece of moose hide to their clothes. Since then, David and his team are working with leaders and Canadians to build safer neighbourhoods and contribute meaningful actions toward Reconciliation.

When Jessica Moorhouse graduated in the midst of a recession armed with a BFA in Film Studies, she realized she was in dire need of money management skills. Fast-forward 13 years, and today she’s an accredited financial counsellor, recognized millennial money expert and host of the hugely popular More Money Podcast. She sits down with Tamara to share her essential tips for money health, and discuss how her journey from arts kid to personal finance guru shows how anyone can achieve financial literacy.

Zakia Karmal doesn’t fit the stereotype that most people associate with substance addiction. Young and raised in a loving and successful family, she nevertheless found herself battling a cocaine and alcohol addiction that spiraled out of control. Now celebrating a year of sobriety, Zakia sits down with Tamara to talk about her journey to rock bottom, finding the strength to ask for help – and why she’s passionate about speaking out against addiction and stigma.

Neuroscientist Dr. Olav Krigolson first joined Tamara in 2020, a couple of months into the pandemic. Some things have changed since then: We’ve got vaccines, lockdowns have eased and mask mandates are ending. But for many Canadians, the anxiety hasn’t waned. In this insightful chat, Dr. Krigolson explains why this time of transition can feel scary, how the past two years could continue to affect our mental health in the coming years – and shares three things you can do to keep your brain healthy.

As a celebrity tribute artist, Jaylene Tyme has made a name embodying iconic performers such as Barbra Streisand, Dolly Parton and Marilyn Monroe. But, as she tells Tamara, her proudest achievement has been playing herself. She shares her journey to living her truth, from her early years as a child of the Sixties Scoop, through a battle with drug and alcohol addiction, to reigning queen of the Vancouver drag scene – and ultimately, to claiming her identity as a proud, Indigenous, Two-Spirit trans woman.

Award-winning Canadian actor and doctor Evan Adams joins Tamara to explore his early career accomplishments and health advocacy work. He shares his inspiring journey growing up on the Sunshine Coast of B.C., breaking into film, and eventually becoming a leader in public health. Dr. Adams’ determination to make healthcare spaces safe for Indigenous people led to the creation of the first-ever Aboriginal Health Physician Advisor role for the BC Ministry of Health. Today, he continues to pave the path for improving the health and wellbeing of all Canadians.

Jim Stickley has stolen credit cards, hacked Social Security numbers, robbed banks and created fake ATMs. But he’s no criminal. As a cyber security expert, he’s been hired to test the security of everything from government agencies to tourist resorts. As he tells Tamara, there are some dark places out there on the web and plenty of traps to fall into. In this eye-opening chat, he shares valuable tips on how to protect yourself, your family and your identity from the clutches of cybercriminals.

If there’s one thing that gets Wildlife Conservation Society Canada’s Peter Soroye buzzing, it’s bees. The Ottawa-based conservation biologist and advocate studies how pollinators are affected by climate change, and the critically important role they can play in our ecosystems. He joins Tamara to discuss why pollinators are so important to humans, the small but meaningful actions we can each take to help them thrive – and his particular fondness for bumblebees, aka “the teddy bears of the skies.”

Sara Wachter-Boettcher’s career started in content strategy and consulting on inclusive and ethical design in tech, but she became concerned by the workplace frustrations people shared with her. In 2020, she founded leadership development company Active Voice to help build more inclusive, equitable workplaces. The author of Technically Wrong sits down with Tamara for a wide-ranging discussion about the post-pandemic future of work, setting healthy boundaries – and the power of acknowledging our feelings.

Any caregiver of a child with a learning difference, like dyslexia or ADHD, knows the challenges of trying to meet their needs. As Rachel Forbes, Executive Director of the Learning Disabilities Society (LDS) tells Tamara, getting a timely diagnosis and support can be out of reach for many. In this week’s discussion, you’ll learn about what learning differences are and how to recognize them, and discover the network of support available through LDS. Plus, you’ll meet an adorable robot called QT.

For the past 12 years, Iceland has ranked at the top of the World Economic Forum’s Global Gender Gap Report. This week, the country’s Canadian-born first lady, writer Eliza Reid, speaks to Tamara about her surprising journey from Ottawa hobby farm to sharing a life with the president of Iceland, how she’s redefined the role of a First Lady, and why she was moved to capture the stories of Iceland’s extraordinary women in her book, Secrets of the Sprakkar.

Joanne Lee Molinaro – aka The Korean Vegan – has captivated her 4 million online fans with her unique recipe of personal storytelling, plant-based recipes and cultural pride. The former corporate lawyer–turned–bestselling cookbook author sits down with Tamara for a wide ranging discussion about life as an Asian American, navigating prejudice and disordered eating, and finding TikTok stardom through Korean cuisine.

Eternity Martis was unprepared for the level of racism, gender-based violence and anger she encountered as a mixed-race Black woman on a predominantly white campus. In her memoir, They Said This Would Be Fun, the award-winning Toronto-based journalist and author confronts her experiences, tying them to the systemic issues plaguing students today. She joins Tamara for a frank discussion about race, identity, anger and the worrying growth of white supremacy.

Parents have many concerns around COVID’s effects on the mental health of youth. But child and adolescent Psychiatrist and Suicidologist Dr. Tyler Black notes the situation isn’t all bad (or good). The UBC professor and former medical director of emergency psychiatry at BC Children’s Hospital shares his insights, informed by 12 years of clinical practice, along with urgent calls for systemic change to make mental health care accessible for everyone who needs it. Need help? Call Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868.

From fast fashion to fast food, it’s easy to get caught up in a cycle of consumption. This week, Tamara talks to Tara McKenna, author of Don’t Be Trashy and founder of the Zero Waste Collective, for tips and inspiration on living with less waste and more purpose. By embracing quality over quantity, curation over clutter, McKenna shares how we can all make small, meaningful changes that not only benefit our planet, but bring us more joy.

Even before COVID-19, older adults in Canada faced higher rates of depression, isolation and loneliness. This week, Tamara speaks with Dr. Joy Masuhara, an LGBTQ+ trailblazer and family physician with Vancouver Coastal Health, who has devoted her long career to caring for elders. They discuss Dr. Masuhara’s work as an advocate and healthcare provider for racialized seniors, the critical role of community care, and the steps we can all take to improve the lives of seniors in our communities.

There’s the perfectly Instagrammable version of motherhood, and then there’s the reality of what that drive to be perfect does to a woman’s mental health. In this episode, Tamara engages Amanda D. Watson, bestselling author and lecturer, in a frank discussion about the unrelenting pressures of motherhood and how to address them with honesty and a feeling of community.

As the World Juniors approaches, the mental well-being of elite athletes is in the spotlight. In this episode, Corey Hirsch, Olympic Silver Medalist and former NHL goalie, tells his mental illness story, and joins Dr. Diane McIntosh, psychiatrist, author and TELUS’ Chief Neuroscience Officer, for a spirited discussion with Tamara. Together, they highlight the courage and resilience of people who experience mental illness, offer ways to find support, and share how we can all prioritize our well-being.

Governor General award-winning Winnipeg author and sought-after speaker, David A. Robertson has published over 25 books, including many children’s stories. David talks to Tamara about his Norway House Cree Nation identity, which he learned about later in life, and he delves into how writing about the love, culture, and resilience of Indigenous people is one of the many ways he honours his family’s history and connects with people from all backgrounds.

Marc Brackett is a research psychologist, Founding Director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and Professor in the Child Study Center at Yale University. He’s also the best-selling author of Permission to Feel, which describes his evidence-based approach to social and emotional learning. Marc breaks down what it means to ask “how are you today?” and how we can begin to answer truthfully as we learn to explore, understand and regulate our own emotions.

When Ashley Bristowe was told her son, Alexander, would never walk or speak as a result of a rare genetic disorder, her life changed forever. Ashley’s memoir, My Own Blood, chronicles her years as Alexander’s caregiver and advocate, in a Canadian system that often disregards disabilities. Today, Alexander has subverted expectations and regularly attends school and loves to swim. And the University of Alberta now includes Ashley’s book in their curriculum; an important step toward change.

Writer and Director Michael Mankowski and producer Charmaine Hammond created the animated short film Back Home Again to show the world how a community could come together and rebuild after a devastating wildfire. The film, set in Fort McMurray in Northern Alberta, has an all-star voice cast and a universally hopeful message, and Michael and Charmaine aim to use it to build mental health awareness. They share their 5-year journey with Tamara and their messages of community, vulnerability and recovery.

Amy Chan is an author, speaker, entrepreneur, mental health advocate and the Founder of Renew Breakup Bootcamp, the world’s first and only breakup bootcamp. After leaving the corporate world, Amy’s company grew to success and has been featured across national media including Good Morning America, Vogue and the front page of The New York Times. In this episode, she shares how to create resilience after a breakup and stay open to new relationships, even when you’re in emotional pain.

Fabrice Grover is a non-profit specialist who has worked in the communications industry through some of the most vital global initiatives, such as the UN Climate Change Conference and World Humanitarian Day. He is instrumental in developing Innovations for Learning in Canada, the world's largest virtual reading program for children. In this episode, he explores the significance of developing early literacy programs in under-resourced communities and truly how fundamental it is for our future generations.

Schuyler is the first openly transgender athlete to compete in any sport on an NCAA Division 1 men’s team. In this episode, he explores his historic choice to transition, showing all of us how to honour our authentic selves. His advocacy has since evolved into rallying for inclusion, body acceptance and mental health awareness. His novel, Obie Is Man Enough, navigates through the life of a young trans athlete who dives headfirst into facing his scariest challenges with resolve, humour and grace.

Social entrepreneur Suzanne Stevens calls for purpose and giving back to become more embedded in our businesses and our culture. In this episode, Suzanne dives into her initiative YouMeWe, and showcases the plethora of opportunities for social change and how to truly connect our actions to what we care about. She urges us to view giving as a long-term commitment, but to keep it simple - whether as a customer, entrepreneur or large business - and look for ways to contribute meaningfully.

Nick North was assigned female at birth, had four children and came out as a transgender man in his 30s. In this episode, Nick explores themes of traditional masculinity, femininity, and assigned gender roles and encourages parents to create a safe space for their children to question everything. His documentary, Just Another Beautiful Family, showcases his transition and gives an honest depiction of what’s possible for ourselves and those we love when the right support and tools are in place.

In 2016, Judge Marion Buller was appointed the Chief Commissioner of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. The inquiry looked into the systemic violence against Indigenous women, girls and two-spirited people, and it was the first of its kind in Canada. Judge Buller describes her experience of hearing over 2,300 people sharing their truths and says some stories will stay with her forever. The report also made calls for justice that all Canadians can work on together.

RoseAnne Archibald made history by becoming the first woman to serve as National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations. She shares her perspective on the upcoming National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and says it gives non-Indigenous Canadians a day to reflect on why we have this new statutory holiday. She asks allies to pressure the government to implement the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and shares her vision of a healed Canada 100 years from now.

Rebekah Taussig wrote Sitting Pretty, a memoir about having a body that looks and moves differently in the world. She recognized that disabled lives are almost always portrayed as tragic or triumphant when actually the experience of having a disability is quite ordinary. She challenges some of the attitudes people have toward disabilities, many under the guise of empathy, and posits that ultimately we all live in bodies that age, are vulnerable to sickness and move in and out of disabled states constantly.

Andrea Paquette founded the Stigma-Free Society in 2010 after being hospitalized for bipolar disorder and losing her home. She was hoping to address the significant stigma around mental illness, and created customized workshops, mental health toolkits and presentations to support people too embarrassed or ashamed to speak up about their experiences. Andrea believes that the more we remove judgement and encourage people to share their stories, the more educated and understanding we’ll all become.

Dr. Dominik Nowak joins us again to talk about how “social prescribing” can complement medical treatment and help provide better health outcomes for everyone. Social prescribing addresses issues like loneliness, poverty, and job insecurity and ties them into formal recommendations from health professionals for mental and physical support resources. You get a more holistic approach to your health, and your community benefits from greater overall wellbeing.

The son of a residential school survivor, artist and master carver Carey Newman has spent the past decade working on The Witness Blanket, an art installation created with artifacts gathered from Indigenous communities across the country that have been affected by Canada’s dark legacy of the residential school system. In this episode, he speaks about his process of creating the piece, the profound impact of bearing witness to the stories of survivors, and why we need truth before we can achieve reconciliation.

When hockey player Kori Cheverie became Assistant Coach of the Ryerson Rams in 2016, she made sports history as the first woman to hold that role with a men's university-level hockey program. Kori shares her trailblazing experience, the differences between coaching women’s and men’s teams, and why professional sports could benefit from more diversity.

Tackling misinformation has long been a passion for health policy expert and bestselling author Timothy Caulfield, and the COVID-19 pandemic is providing ample opportunity to further his research. In this episode, Timothy discusses the importance of fact-checking medical advice from celebrities, why we should avoid social media influencers who are peddling miracle cures, and how we all can make informed decisions when it comes to our health.

For the past 20 years, Saleema Noon has been a driving force in helping kids and their parents navigate the topic of sexual education, something that has changed dramatically since the introduction of the internet. Saleema speaks on the different ways to teach consent, body science and sexual health, and takes a look at some of the questions being asked at all ages in the classroom.

When storyteller, activist and self-proclaimed “road dog” Ivan Coyote found their travel plans put on hold due to COVID-19, they began writing replies to the stack of letters fans had sent them, unaware that this heartfelt correspondence would become the core concept of their new book, Care of. In this episode, Ivan speaks to Tamara about how storytelling and conversation can spark powerful connections with others and even show us the potential for our own future.

If you’ve ever googled your own symptoms you know first hand that the internet is a minefield of shady advice, influencers selling miracle cures and sites that are adamantly against modern medicine. Luckily Dr. Jen Gunter, affectionately known as “Twitter's Resident Gynecologist” is on our show this week to educate listeners on the right way to research and advocate for their health, as well as delving into why we need to normalize the conversation about menopause.

Cheekbone Beauty founder Jenn Harper didn’t just decide to start a sustainable, cruelty-free beauty brand that gives back to the Indigenous community: it came to her in a dream. Now she’s helping Indigenous youth feel beautiful in their skin, and her products are on the shelves of some of Canada’s largest beauty retailers. She joined Tamara to talk about being an Indigenous business woman, honouring her family, and why representation in every industry matters.

When most of us hear the words virtual reality we think of futuristic technology and bulky headgear. But artist and technologist Amelia Winger-Bearskin sees VR as a way to connect to a fully sensory form of story-telling, and a tool to help amplify marginalized and remote voices. She spoke to Tamara about how equitable access to innovative technology can help create a friendlier, more just future for everyone.

Few writers can boast a publishing schedule like Dene storyteller Richard Van Camp, who published twenty six books in as many years, including novels, children’s literature, and graphic fiction. But Richard has a not-so-secret method for developing stories: he listens. He spoke with Tamara about how the people in his family and community are bursting with stories he couldn’t wait to tell, and how he treats each one they share with him as a gift.

For LGBTQ2+ individuals facing persecution and state-sponsored violence around the world, Rainbow Railroad can provide a pathway to a better life. They partner with local and international organizations to relocate and support queer people whose lives are in danger. Managing Director WInnie Luk spoke to Tamara about the role of the media in bringing attention to the cause, the challenges connecting globally during the pandemic, and how we all can help.

You might know author Eden Robinson from the feature film adaptation of her novel Monkey Beach, or from the binge-worthy CBC series based on her Trickster trilogy. But the Eden that Tamara spoke to was someone painfully and hilariously honest about the messy inner world of a writer. From using writing to weather the pandemic to taking comfort in the storytelling traditions of her Haisla and Heiltsuk family, Eden makes the case for following your muse.

When Dr. Daniel Kalla isn’t leading the emergency department at Vancouver’s St. Paul’s Hospital, he pens best-selling thrillers that take us behind the curtain of global medicine. His new novel, Lost Immunity, arrives at just the right time, capturing the trials and tribulations of a public health officer tasked with defeating a terrifying new pandemic. Sound familiar? Dr. Kalla speaks with Tamara about how he uses fiction to exorcise our medical anxieties and fears.

We’re over a year into the COVID-19 pandemic, and we’re all missing our friends. Journalist and author Kayleen Schaefer has written two books about the power of female friendship, and she joins Tamara to talk about how women can support each other at home and in the workplace, the role sexism plays in keeping women apart, and how we can all nurture profound (but not perfect) relationships with the people who matter most.

Some days it feels impossible to fit everything into 24 hours, but award-winning novelist, journalist and mother Karma Brown believes most of us can find one hour that’s just for us. She joins Tamara to discuss her latest book, The 4% Fix, her path to becoming an author and how simple things, like setting your alarm a little earlier, can get you closer to achieving your goals.

It’s our second Mother’s Day in a pandemic and moms are struggling more than ever to balance parenting and work responsibilities. Two TELUS leaders have taken the initiative to create the Mama Bear program, a community that uplifts, empowers, and celebrates the challenges and capabilities of working mothers. Kate Evans and Angelica Victoria are using the virtual tools we’ve all been using for over a year to create an inclusive, positive space for mothers to share, without judgement or sugar coating.

A lot has happened since Tamara last spoke to Dr. Michael Osterholm, infectious disease expert, in July of 2020. Since then, he’s become part of President Biden’s transition team, advising him and his cabinet on the pandemic and the COVID-19 vaccine rollout. He joins us again to discuss the variants cropping up across the globe, the vaccination efforts in the US and Canada, and the challenges we all face in preparing for life after the pandemic.

Jen Bennett from Google joins Tamara in a special Earth Day episode to discuss how leading industries around the globe are digging into new environmental goals, why this is linked to addressing social inequality, and how there’s never been more opportunities for business owners, and really, all of us, to make intentional, sustainable choices about the future of our planet.

Sarah Wilson, author of “This One Wild and Precious Life: A Hopeful Path Forward in a Fractured World”, spent the past year watching as wildfires, the #MeToo movement, and a global pandemic rocked her home country of Australia. She saw the need for a new path forward, and joins Tamara to discuss the urgency of climate change, finding strength and human connection in rage, and the science behind how hiking in nature calms anxiety.

Dr. Silke Appel-Cresswell leads the BC Brain Wellness Program in Vancouver and studies how diet, exercise and social connection might prevent chronic brain disorders. It won’t be shocking to hear her describe an ideal diet full of fruits, vegetables and healthy fats, but what may be common sense is still hard for many of us to adopt. Tamara talks to the doctor about how preventative measures could lead to all of us living longer, potentially disease-free lives.

Wes Hall has worked hard to go from the mailroom to the boardroom in corporate Canada, but in the aftermath of George Floyd’s murder, he knew he had to use his status and connections as a Black leader to help make a bigger change in this country. So he created the BlackNorth Initiative, to bring Canadian executives together and pledge to end systemic racism. Hall has a powerful message to share about why it’s our responsibility to fix the broken system we have inherited.

For many of us, the past year has been marked by a constant barrage of uncertainty, stress and fear -- and now, even with several different vaccines approved for use in Canada, some people are still feeling hesitant to get vaccinated. In this episode, returning guest Dr. Diane McIntosh, TELUS’ Chief Neuroscience Officer, breaks down the root of these fears, and what we can do to make the best decision for ourselves, our families and our communities.

Dr. Yona Lunsky has dedicated her career to understanding the mental health needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Recognizing the unique requirements of this community, and how the healthcare system has become significantly more difficult to navigate in the midst of the pandemic, she speaks to the ableism that is deeply rooted in our society, and why we need to include those with developmental disabilities in our plans for the COVID-19 vaccine rollout.

Farah Mohamed founded G(irls)20 to amplify the voices of young women from G20 countries, and encourage a new generation of leaders through education, entrepreneurship and global experiences. Farah speaks about how the pandemic has disproportionately affected women around the world - at home and at work - and the hope she still has that girls and women are finding new ways to lead through this crisis and beyond.

One of our favourite guests - Dr. Diane McIntosh - returns to answer the question: what is depression? Dr. McIntosh is a Psychiatrist, bestselling author and TELUS’ Chief Neuroscience Officer, and she says that even though depression and anxiety can show up in numerous ways, there are common symptoms to look for. She also debunks some of the myths around mental health.

Rosemary Sadlier is an author, educator and past president of the Ontario Black History Society, where she was instrumental in establishing Black History Month in Canada. She has been a fierce advocate for reforming the education system to include the history of African Canadians and speaks out on systemic racism and the erasure of Black history. Rosemary talks about how Black History Month was never created to be the only time we talk about Black history and why it needs to be a yearlong conversation.

Koa Beck is the former editor-in-chief of Jezebel and author of the new book White Feminism, a discussion about race, empowerment and inclusion. In 2013, Koa wrote an essay that went viral on the phenomenon of “passing” and getting more credibility if seen as a white, straight person. In her recent book, she describes ‘white feminism’ as a specific approach to achieving gender equality that views men as the comparison for equality instead of breaking down race, sexuality and income barriers.

Deborah Flint joined the Greater Toronto Airports Authority as President and CEO only six weeks before the pandemic hit. She says the aviation industry has never experienced anything like this, and its future depends on health and technology innovation. Toronto Pearson has brought in new protocols to make it one of the healthiest airports in North America, and Deborah says a strong aviation sector is pivotal to Canadians, not just for personal travel, but for our economy and to compete in the world market.