Inflection Time with Silken Laumann

Leanne Taylor is a seasoned leader, social innovator, and fierce advocate for equity and athlete well-being. In this conversation, Leanne opens up to Silken about the moments that shaped her—from working with elite athletes at the Canadian Olympic Committee to leading systemic change in sport and beyond. Her story is one of courage, conscience, and claiming her space. With humour, heart, and honesty, Leanne reflects on the cost of speaking up, the joy of aligning with your values, and why owning your voice is one of the greatest acts of leadership. 

Dawn Smyth is the NBA's Associate VP & Head of International Youth Development, overseeing programs that impact more than 60 million young people around the world. In this conversation, Dawn reflects on her path from sidelined athlete to global leader—how a career-ending injury helped her discover a new kind of influence off the court. She speaks with honesty about the barriers she faced as a woman in sport and what it's taken to not only break them down, but to stay soft, bold, and strategic while doing it.  Try Good Life Fitness Today https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass Thank you for joining us on Inflection Time.  We hope you enjoyed the episode.  We'd love for you to follow, subscribe to, and share our podcast on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.  Find show highlights on my Instagram @silkenlaumann Inflection Time is developed and produced by Silken Laumann in partnership with Archer & Co and sponsored by Good Life Fitness and Ventum Financial. A special thank you to: Our incredible in-kind sponsors: Carter Wiley and Tall Boy Water. Executive Producers and Directors: Michelle Archer and Phil Kluba   Producer: Christine Bays Creative Development by Sarah Carter.  

Dan Hill is the Grammy and Juno award winning singer-songwriter behind "Sometimes When We Touch," one of the most iconic ballads in music history. In this episode, Dan opens up about identity, race, family, grief, vulnerability, and what it means to be a man who feels deeply in a world that often doesn't reward that. He reflects on music not just as art but as a lifeline, a mirror, and a way to stay soft in a world that can harden us. 

Julian LeBlanc is an actor, entrepreneur, and founder of LeBlanc School of Acting. In this conversation, he opens up about following intuition, healing through storytelling, and why confetti (yes, really) might be the best metaphor for celebrating each other. His journey is one of freedom, vulnerability, and redefining success. 

Sharon Hampson and Bram Morrison—two-thirds of the iconic Sharon, Lois & Bram trio joined Silken for a moving conversation about legacy, joy, and the lifelong impact of connecting with children. From the roots of the Canadian folk scene to becoming household names through The Elephant Show and Skinnamarink TV, they've inspired generations with love and music. Together, they reflect on the power of showing up with authenticity and how being nose-to-nose with kids changed their lives too. 

Amanda Lindhout is a journalist, humanitarian, and author whose life was forever changed after being held hostage for 460 days in Somalia. In this conversation, Amanda reflects not on survival alone, but on what comes after - how healing unfolds slowly, quietly, and with intention. She shares the practices that ground her today and how she has transformed trauma into purpose through service, storytelling, and connection. Try Good Life Fitness Today https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass Thank you for joining us on Inflection Time.  We hope you enjoyed the episode.  We'd love for you to follow, subscribe to, and share our podcast on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.  Find show highlights on my Instagram @silkenlaumann Inflection Time is developed and produced by Silken Laumann in partnership with Archer & Co and sponsored by Good Life Fitness and Ventum Financial. A special thank you to: Our incredible in-kind sponsors: Carter Wiley and Tall Boy Water. Executive Producers and Directors: Michelle Archer and Phil Kluba   Producer: Christine Bays Creative Development by  Sarah Carter.

Taylor Elgersma is a football player whose journey from Laurier Football standout to signing with the Green Bay Packers, to being released from Green Bay, embodies belief, persistence, and trust in the process. In this episode, Taylor reflects on the discipline it takes to train like a pro, how he leads with humility, and why he doesn't chase outcomes; he builds systems that support them. Try Good Life Fitness Today https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass Thank you for joining us on Inflection Time.  We hope you enjoyed the episode.  We'd love for you to follow, subscribe to, and share our podcast on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.  Find show highlights on my Instagram @silkenlaumann Inflection Time is developed and produced by Silken Laumann in partnership with Archer & Co and sponsored by Good Life Fitness and Ventum Financial. A special thank you to: Our incredible in-kind sponsors: Carter Wiley and Tall Boy Water. Executive Producers and Directors: Michelle Archer and Phil Kluba   Producer: Christine Bays Creative Development by  Sarah Carter.

In this episode of Inflection Time, host Silken Laumann sits down with Stephan Moccio — Grammy- and Oscar-nominated composer, producer, and pianist whose work has shaped global hits for artists like Celine Dion, The Weeknd, and beyond. After decades at the highest levels of the music industry, Stephan opens up about the quieter inflection points that reshaped his life: creative burnout, perfectionism, and the moment he chose to step away from noise, commerce, and constant output — returning instead to the piano, simplicity, and emotional truth. try Good Life Fitness Today https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass  Thank you for joining us on Inflection Time.  We hope you enjoyed the episode.  We'd love for you to follow, subscribe to, and share our podcast on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.   Find show highlights on my Instagram @silkenlaumann  Inflection Time is developed and produced by Silken Laumann in partnership with Archer & Co and sponsored by Good Life Fitness and Ventum Financial.  A special thank you to:  Our incredible in-kind sponsors: Carter Wiley and Tall Boy Water Executive Producers and Directors: Michelle Archer and Phil Kluba   Producer: Christine Bays  Creative Development by  Sarah Carter.  

In this deeply personal Season 2 premiere of Inflection Time, host Silken Laumann sits down with a guest she knows better than anyone: her husband, David "Patch" Patchell-Evans, the founder and owner of GoodLife Fitness. Patch opens up about the inflection points that shaped his life, from a devastating motorcycle accident in his youth that led him to discover the healing power of exercise, to the risk of buying his first failing club while still a student. Together, Silken and Patch explore the realities of living with chronic pain, the "farm boy" work ethic that built a fitness empire, and the profound life lessons learned parenting their daughter, Kilee, who has autism. Try Good Life Fitness Today https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass Thank you for joining us on Inflection Time. We hope you enjoyed the episode. We'd love for you to follow, subscribe to, and share our podcast on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube. Find show highlights on my Instagram @silkenlaumann Inflection Time is developed and produced by Silken Laumann in partnership with Archer & Co and sponsored by Good Life Fitness and Ventum Financial. A special thank you to: Our incredible in-kind sponsors: Carter Wiley and Tall Boy Water. Executive Producers and Directors: Michelle Archer and Phil Kluba Producer: Christine Bays Creative Development by Sarah Carter.

In this episode, we sit down with Madison Tevlin—an actress, digital creator, and trailblazing advocate who challenges stereotypes and reshapes the conversation around Down syndrome. Madison shares her remarkable journey, from a viral music cover to her recent award-winning role in the "Down Syndrome is the Least Interesting Thing About Me" campaign. She opens up about her Hollywood experiences, including working with Woody Harrelson in Champions and her passion for shifting perceptions about disability. With resilience and humor, Madison discusses her personal and professional journey and what it means to be a voice for inclusion. Tune in for an inspiring glimpse into her mission to encourage others to "assume that I can." Sponsored by GoodLife Fitness and Tall Boy Waterhttps://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass (https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass) Madison Tevlin's cover photo by ANGELEA Inflection Time Credits: Director and Executive Producer: Michelle Archer Director and Producer: Phil Kluba Creative Director: Sarah Carter Communications Director: Christine Bays Production Assistants: Olivia Cobden and Hope Rutledge Inflection Time was created by Archer & Co, Akrenim, and Silken Laumann

In this episode, we talk with Lacy Hartselle, actress, mental health advocate, and podcast host, This is Temporary. Lacy opens up about her journey with bipolar disorder, the influence of labels on mental health, and how she learned to embrace her sensitivity as a strength. We discuss her passion for challenging the stigmas of mental illness and her experiences navigating a creative career while honoring her own mental health needs. Lacy's insights on balancing vulnerability with resilience offer listeners a powerful reminder that, as she believes, "This is temporary." This episode dives deep into her inspiring journey, leaving listeners with a message of compassion and hope.  Sponsored by GoodLife Fitness and Tall Boy Water https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass (https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass) Director and Executive Producer: Michelle Archer Director and Producer: Phil Kluba Creative Director: Sarah Carter Communications Director: Christine Bays Production Assistants: Olivia Cobden and Hope Rutledge Inflection Time was created by Archer & Co, Akrenim, and Silken Laumann

In this episode, Silken Laumann speaks with Michael Landsberg, a charismatic Canadian sports community icon and former Off the Record host. Michael is also one of Canada's most vocal mental health advocates and the founder of the #SickNotWeak movement, dedicated to breaking the stigma around mental illness and building supportive communities.  Michael opens up about his battle with depression and anxiety, a journey that led him from hiding his struggles to becoming a powerful voice for mental health advocacy. Silken and Michael explore the profound impact of sharing personal stories, the misconceptions surrounding mental illness, and the healing power of candid conversations. This episode is a deeply personal and insightful exploration of mental health, resilience, and how we can all contribute to ending the stigma.  Sponsored by GoodLife Fitness and Tall Boy Water https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass (https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass) Director and Executive Producer: Michelle Archer Director and Producer: Phil Kluba Creative Director: Sarah Carter Communications Director: Christine Bays Production Assistants: Olivia Cobden and Hope Rutledge Inflection Time was created by Archer & Co, Akrenim, and Silken Laumann

In this episode, we welcome Tyler Smith, a Humboldt Broncos survivor, mental health advocate, and winner of The Amazing Race. Tyler shares his profound journey from surviving the Humboldt bus tragedy to embracing a mission of mental health awareness. Through candid reflections, he discusses the challenges of processing trauma, the importance of allowing oneself to feel and express emotions, and the courage it takes to speak up. Tyler sheds light on how cultural attitudes towards vulnerability are evolving, offering a hopeful and optimistic outlook for the future. His insights on resilience, connection, and the importance of destigmatizing mental health offer inspiration and guidance for anyone seeking strength and hope in the face of adversity. Sponsored by GoodLife Fitness and Tall Boy Water https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass (https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass) Director and Executive Producer: Michelle Archer Director and Producer: Phil Kluba Creative Director: Sarah Carter Communications Director: Christine Bays Production Assistants: Olivia Cobden and Hope Rutledge Inflection Time was created by Archer & Co, Akrenim, and Silken Laumann

In this episode, Silken Laumann speaks with the dynamic Bif Naked, an iconic musician, performer, and activist. Bif, known for her resilience, has survived breast cancer, kidney failure, and heart surgery while breaking barriers in the music industry for over 25 years.   In their conversation, Bif shares deeply personal insights into her battles with illness and how they shaped her advocacy work. They touch on her cancer journey, mental health, and dedication to helping others through their own struggles. Together, they discuss Bif's passion for art and activism and the profound impact of living authentically and purposefully while facing life's greatest challenges head-on. This episode is a powerful exploration of resilience, strength, and the unwavering determination to turn adversity into empowerment and growth.  Sponsored by GoodLife Fitness and Talll Boy Water  https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass (https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass)  Director and Executive Producer: Michelle Archer  Director and Producer: Phil Kluba Creative Director: Sarah Carter Communications Director: Christine Bays Production Assistants: Olivia Cobden and Hope Rutledge Inflection Time was created by Archer & Co, Akrenim, and Silken Laumann 

In this episode, Silken Laumann sits down with Chef Joe Friday, an acclaimed culinary innovator whose career spans the globe. Born in North Carolina and raised in Okinawa, Japan, Chef Joe has worked in some of the world's finest kitchens, including The French Laundry and Nobu. He has also been a part of opening Toronto's Luma and co-founded the popular poke restaurant Calii Love. As the founder of The Chef Collective, Joe is passionate about showcasing chefs and creating opportunities for them to shine. During their conversation, Chef Joe shares his journey from baseball dreams to culinary stardom, how he channels his competitive spirit into his craft, and the importance of community and mentorship in the kitchen. Together, they discuss how food is not just sustenance but a tool for connection and expression. This episode delves into the art of resilience, competition, and the love for cooking that has shaped Chef Joe's extraordinary career. Sponsored by GoodLife Fitness and Talll Boy Water https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass (https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass) Director and Executive Producer: Michelle Archer  Director and Producer: Phil Kluba Creative Director: Sarah Carter Communications Director: Christine Bays Production Assistants: Olivia Cobden and Hope Rutledge Inflection Time was created by Archer & Co, Akrenim, and Silken Laumann

In this episode, Silken Laumann speaks with one of Canada's most iconic athletes, Hayley Wickenheiser, the longest-serving member of Canada's National Women's Hockey Team. Wickenheiser competed in the first five Olympic Games that featured women's hockey, winning four gold and one silver medals, making her one of Canada's most decorated Olympians. Beyond the ice, she has broken new ground in men's professional leagues and currently serves as Assistant General Manager for the Toronto Maple Leafs. Hayley shares her relentless drive, the challenges of navigating male-dominated sports, and the delicate balance between her career as a four-time Olympic gold medalist and her journey into medicine. Together, they discuss the intensity and resilience it takes to break barriers and excel in sports and life, sharing personal stories that reveal the grit behind their remarkable achievements. Sponsored by GoodLife Fitness and Talll Boy Water https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass (https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass) Director and Executive Producer: Michelle Archer Director and Producer: Phil Kluba Creative Director: Sarah Carter Communications Director: Christine Bays Production Assistants: Olivia Cobden and Hope Rutledge Inflection Time was created by Archer& Co, Akrenim, and Silken Laumann

In this episode of Inflection Time, Silken Laumann speaks with Colin Mochrie about the unpredictable world of improv comedy. Colin reflects on his path from shy beginnings to becoming a household name through Whose Line Is It Anyway?. They discuss the crucial importance of staying present on stage, the challenges of public recognition, and the personal transformations Colin has experienced along the way. Join them for a candid and humorous conversation about creativity, resilience, and embracing vulnerability both in life and on stage. Mochrie is an award-winning improv comedian and writer who has worked at Second City, starred in various TV shows, and toured with the National Touring Company.  Mochrie worked at Second City in Toronto before joining the British and American versions of Whose Line Is It Anyway? He had a recurring role on The Drew Carey Show (1995) as Eugene Anderson. He starred in various stage productions including The Brady Bunch while touring with the National Touring Company. He also writes as well as stars in the Canadian comedy series Supertown Challenge (1998), as well as the sitcom Blackfly (2001). Mochrie's work has been recognized with numerous awards, including two Canadian Comedy Awards, a Gemini Award, and a Writers Guild of Canada award. He was named Canadian Comedy Person of the Year at the 2013 Canadian Comedy Awards. Sponsored by GoodLife Fitness and Tall Boy Water https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass (https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass) Director and Executive Producer: Michelle Archer Director and Producer: Phil Kluba Creative Director: Sarah Carter Communications Director: Christine Bays Production Assistants: Olivia Cobden and Hope Rutledge Inflection Time was created by Archer& Co, Akrenim, and Silken Laumann

In this episode of Inflection Time, Silken Laumann chats with Erica about her early rise to fame as a young television host on MuchMusic, navigating the pressures of live broadcasting, and how she embraced reinvention through different stages of life. They dive into Erica's passion for music, her love of community, and the invaluable lessons she learned from balancing career ambitions with motherhood. Tune in for an honest, heartfelt conversation about resilience, growth, and staying true to your passions. Erica Ehm BIo: Erica Ehm, is a Canadian writer, actor, songwriter, entrepreneur and TV host. She is best known as a pioneering video jockey (VJ) at the Canadian cable television station MuchMusic.Ehm left MuchMusic in 1994, after ten years, to concentrate on her songwriting career. Since then, she has returned periodically to television, hosting or appearing in shows including Yummy Mummy and ROBOCOP. She has written various stage musicals, songs, and launched a record label. She has won three Canadian Country Music Awards, three SOCAN Awards and Junos. Ehm  founded YummyMummyClub.ca, a way to connect brands, social creators, and moms. Ehm authored She Should Talk: Conversations with Exceptional Women about Life, Dreams and Success, as well as a children's book, The Mischievous Mom at the Art Gallery. Ehm launched Ehm & Co., a digital agency specializing in marketing to Canadian women. Ehm continues to bring leadership expertise to her speaking, moderating, and hosting events.  Sponsored by GoodLife Fitness and Tall Boy Water https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass (https://try.goodlifefitness.com/7-day-pass) Director and Executive Producer: Michelle Archer  Director and Producer: Phil Kluba Creative Director: Sarah Carter Communications Director: Christine Bays  Production Assistants: Olivia Cobden and Hope Rutledge Inflection Time created by Archer& Co, Akrenim and Silken Laumann