Not So Average

In this episode of Not So Avg, Isaac Bignell, owner of Say Cheese Fromagerie in Calgary’s Crossroads Market, shares how a simple cheese counter turned into a full community experience. From wheel openings and curated dinners to his tabloid-style print project The Daily Rind, Isaac has built more than a shop. He has created a gathering place where food, storytelling, and connection come together.This conversation goes well beyond cheese. Isaac walks through the history of cheesemaking, tracing it back to Bedouin travel and early rennet discovery, while exploring the traditions and regions that continue to define the craft today.🧀 What You’ll Hear in This Episode: 🌍 The global regions shaping great cheese today, from Quebec’s Eastern Townships to Italy, France, Switzerland, and Spain 🐑 A rare cheese called Rebel Historico, produced through nomadic valley herding and field production 🤝 Why building relationships with cheesemakers and experts matters more than chasing trends 🏡 How Say Cheese Fromagerie became a hub for community through events, storytelling, and shared meals 💡 Isaac’s perspective on leadership, mentorship, and what success actually looks likeFor Isaac, success is not measured by scale. It is measured by happiness, treating people well, and building something that gives back, including raising more than $5,000 for food insecurity through his work in the community.Show Notes:Say Cheese FromagerieWebsite - https://saycheeseyyc.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/saycheeseyyc/🎧 Listen now and discover how craft, curiosity, and community can turn something simple into something truly Not So Avg.#NotSoAvg #IsaacBignell #SayCheeseFromagerie #CheeseCulture #CalgaryFoodScene #CraftFood #CommunityDriven #FoodStories #SmallBusinessLeadership #CrossroadsMarket

In this episode of Not So Avg, Nick Thompson pulls back the curtain on the realities of entrepreneurship. The parts people rarely talk about. An entrepreneur, coach, and author, Nick shares the story behind building and scaling a Canadian branded merchandise company through mergers and acquisitions, growing it into a culture-driven organization recognized for developing its people.But the journey did not follow a straight line. After a U.S. merger and major structural changes to leadership and governance, the culture that once defined the company began to unravel. What followed were lawsuits, personal hardship, and ultimately Nick losing both his role and ownership in the company he helped build.💡 What You’ll Hear in This Episode: 📈 The strategy behind merging five companies and acquiring twenty more 🏗 Why building people, not just profits, was the foundation of their culture ⚠️ How leadership changes and aggressive cost-cutting can dismantle a company culture 🧠 Nick’s battle with depression and the role community played in his recovery 🤝 The difference between mentoring and coaching in leadership development 🎯 Why true success comes from the positive impact you have on othersNick’s story is a powerful reminder that entrepreneurship is not just about the wins. It is about resilience, humility, and the people who help you rebuild when everything falls apart.🎧 Listen now and hear the unfiltered truth behind building, losing, and starting again.Show Notes:Die with Zero - Bill Perkinshttps://www.amazon.ca/Die-Zero-Getting-Your-Money/dp/0358099765Fractional remote staffinghttps://astrateams.com/nickthompsonbooks.comNick Thompson’s LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/astrateams/#NotSoAvg #NickThompson #Entrepreneurship #Leadership #StartupLessons #Resilience #BusinessCulture #Mentorship #ExecutiveCoaching #CalgaryEntrepreneurs

In this episode of Not So Avg, Kealen Bailey takes us through a career path that’s anything but traditional. Starting as an interior designer and competitive equestrian, evolving into a Muay Thai fighter, and now leading the charge at Rumble Boxing as VP of Training & Development, while also growing PRML as a managing partner.This episode dives into how Kealen has become a culture architect. Building powerful, people-first environments that blend discipline, fun, and purpose.🏋️‍♀️ What You’ll Hear in This Episode: 🔄 How reinvention shaped her personal and professional journey 🥊 The foundations of Rumble Boxing’s dynamic team culture🌍 Scaling with intention and keeping community at the core⚡ What it means to lead through connection, energy, and example 💬 Her honest take on persistence, pressure, and personal growthWhether you're building a team, a brand, or yourself, Kealen's story reminds us that Not So Avg success is rooted in authenticity, adaptability, and showing up with heart.🎧 Tune in and find out what happens when intensity meets intention.Show Notes:Kealen Bailey Instagram - kealanbRumble Boxing Instagram - rumbleboxinghttps://rumbleboxing.com/PRML Instagram - prml_socialhttps://www.prmlsocial.com/

In this episode of Not So Avg, Danijel Slisko opens up about what it really looks like to build, fail, and build again. Sharing the highs, lows, and hard-won lessons from founding six companies across multiple industries.Raised in an entrepreneurial household, Danijel reflects on how his father’s influence shaped his mindset early on, from financial literacy to calculated risk-taking. But this episode goes beyond business. It’s a conversation about resilience, relationships, and following what feels natural.💬 What You’ll Hear in This Episode: 💡 The early ventures that sparked Danijel’s entrepreneurial path 📉 Knowing when to let go in business 💬 Why resilience is the real currency of entrepreneurship 🏡 The role family, friendships, and community play in staying grounded 👨‍👧 The values he’s now passing onDanijel’s journey reminds us that success isn’t a single destination, it’s the compounding result of experience, support, and staying in the game when things get hard.Show Notes:Where to find Danijel:Personal Site - https://danijelslisko.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/danijel-sli%C5%A1ko-1639a61b/Referenced in this Episode:The REAL Secret to Success video  https://youtu.be/M7dUIXEzPfgStrategies for Life Success – John Spence’s Workbook https://johnspence.mybigcommerce.com/strategies-for-life-success-workbook-pdf/🎧 Listen now and get inspired by the long view of what it means to build a Not So Avg life.

In this solo episode of Not So Avg, we get real about something too many of us face but rarely talk about—burnout. Recognized by the World Health Organization as an occupational phenomenon, burnout is no longer just a buzzword. It’s a reality for healthcare workers, tech professionals, creatives, and especially young people navigating high-pressure careers.Drawing from my own experience in the tech world and beyond, we open up about what burnout looked and felt like —and how it nearly broke everything that was built. More importantly, we shares the six strategies that helped me pull back, reset, and rebuild:🛑 Set boundaries that protect your energy 😴 Make rest non-negotiable 💪 Return to the basics of physical and mental health 📦 Reframe how you think about productivity 🤝 Strengthen your social circles 🎯 Reconnect with your whyThis is not a glorified story of hustle—it’s a real conversation about the cost of ignoring your limits, and how to start doing things differently.🎧 Listen now if you’ve been running on empty and need a new way forward.

From varsity basketball courts to building brands across North America, Cameo Hanlon has never been afraid to go full tilt into her next chapter. In this episode of Not So Avg, she shares how the same mindset that fueled her in sport - resilience, discipline, and a healthy dose of stubbornness became the foundation for her life in entrepreneurship.She takes us behind the scenes of Best Marketing Co., her creative agency built from scratch, and the creation of Bender Extender, a hangover supplement brand with personality. But this conversation is about more than business. It’s about the real work of choosing your own path, navigating the tension between ambition and lifestyle, and figuring it out one decision at a time.What you’ll hear isn’t a polished highlight reel, it’s an honest reflection on: 🧠 The mindset shift from athlete to entrepreneur 🥴 What no one tells you about launching a supplement brand 🌵 Starting over in Arizona and finding rhythm across borders 📉 What to do when the plan changes 💬 The gap between what people see online and what’s really going onIf you’ve ever chased big goals, hit walls, or questioned if you’re doing it right, this one’s for you.🎧 Tune in now and hear what it really takes to build bold when no one hands you the playbook.

In this episode of Not So Avg, Jordana Armstrong unpacks what it really means to drive social innovation—and why it’s critical for solving global challenges like climate change, inequality, and migration.With experience spanning from Innovate Calgary to advisory roles in Maryland and D.C., Jordana brings a sharp, purpose-driven perspective on how community-led, integrated solutions can fuel real, lasting change.💡 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🌍 Why social innovation is the key to sustainable impact🏗️ How startup ecosystems and universities can better support changemakers🤝 The importance of diverse voices in economic development🔑 Jordana’s approach to leadership, mentorship, and defining success📈 The realities of navigating innovation across sectors and system.This conversation is packed with insight for anyone building with purpose, leading with intention, or trying to create impact beyond the bottom line.🎧 Listen now and explore what it means to innovate with heart and vision

In this episode of Not So Avg, master chocolatier Bernard Callebaut shares the highs, lows, and lessons from a lifetime in the chocolate industry. With family roots in chocolate dating back to 1911 in Belgium, Bernard built a thriving business in Calgary, only to lose it and rebuild not once, but twice.Through hardship and reinvention, Bernard’s story is a powerful example of resilience, craftsmanship, and passion.🍫 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 🌱 What makes high-quality chocolate. From cocoa bean to final product. 🤝 The importance of ethical sourcing, organic ingredients, and fair-trade practices. 🔥 How to bounce back from major business losses and start again. 🏗 The role of community, values, and reinvention in long-term success.💡 Why curiosity and continuous learning fuel lasting creativity.Now at the helm of Master Chocolat, Bernard is still pushing boundaries with handcrafted, small-batch chocolate rooted in quality and care. His journey proves that even after setbacks, it’s possible to rebuild something meaningful. Maybe even sweeter than before.🎧 Listen now and discover what it takes to stay Not So Avg in business and life.Where to find Bernard Callebaut:https://www.masterchocolat.com/

In this episode of Not So Avg, Nicholas Beique, founder of Helcim, shares the journey behind one of Calgary’s standout FinTech companies. Built with the mission to level the playing field for small businesses, Helcim is redefining what it means to compete with giants by giving business owners access to powerful, transparent payments technology.From coding websites as a teen to leading a company that’s reshaping commerce, Nicholas opens up about the real challenges and lessons that come with building something meaningful.What You’ll Learn in This Episode: 🚀 The early days of Helcim and how it grew from idea to impact 🌎 Why Nicholas believes Canada can be a global tech leader by 2050 🏗 How to scale a company while protecting its culture and core values 💰 Thoughts on venture capital, sustainable growth, and staying mission-aligned ⚖️ The balance between ambition, leadership, and personal lifeThis is a conversation for builders, dreamers, and anyone bold enough to believe that small businesses deserve big opportunities.🎧 Listen now and get inspired by the vision behind Helcim.Books Referenced:No Rules - Reed HastingsPowerful - Patty McCordThe Innovator's Dilemma - Clayton M. ChristensenThe Four Burners Theory:https://jamesclear.com/four-burners-theoryThe Innovator’s Dilemma:https://duartem.medium.com/summary-of-the-innovators-dilemma-b2118bca8354

In this milestone episode of Not So Avg, we reflect on the biggest lessons from the first 20 episodes of the show. What started as a way to highlight the uncommon paths to success has turned into a powerful archive of real stories from everyday people doing extraordinary things.From Olympians and CEOs to pilots, mentors, and creatives, this episode unpacks the most impactful themes that have emerged so far: 🔥 Redefining success on your own terms 💡 The power of passion and reinvention 🤝 Why community, reflection, and purpose matter ⚖️ Finding intentional balance and leading through serviceThis episode shares insights from past guests like Ray DePaul, Haley Daniels, Michael Sydoryk, and Mandy Balak, all of whom embody what it means to live a Not So Avg life.This episode is both a look back and a launchpad for what’s ahead. More bold stories, more unconventional journeys, and more reminders that success is never one-size-fits-all.🎧 Tune in and hear what these 20 voices have taught us so far.

In this episode of Not So Avg., we sit down with Michael Sydoryk, a self-taught wildlife painter who left chiropractic school to follow a creative path rooted in purpose and passion. We explore how Michael turned uncertainty into opportunity, building a career that blends fine art, wildlife conservation, and personal storytelling. He opens up about the realities of navigating commissions, staying authentic on social media, and redefining success on his own terms (something that is constantly evolving). From collaborations with the Calgary Zoo to painting pieces that tell more than just a visual story, Michael shares what it means to work with intention and trust the unknown. This one is for anyone wrestling with what it means to live a life that actually feels like yours. Where to find Michael Sydoryk:Instagram - wildform.artWebsite - https://sydorykfineart.com/

In this episode of Not So Avg., I sit down with Chef Mike Pigot, a force in Canada’s culinary scene and someone who has built his career on passion, precision, and people.We dive into his journey from discovering a love for food early on to becoming a leader in local establishments and operations that span across the country. Mike shares how mentoring, teamwork, and leadership has shaped his path, and opens up about the burnout and breakthroughs that come with the territory.From creating Pigot’s Burgers, Pasta La Mano, and Calgary’s hottest go-to spot, Pat and Betty’s, Mike offers an honest look at what it takes to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure industry, all while staying grounded in purpose.Whether you're in the food world or just curious about what drives a creative leader, this episode is full of real talk, life lessons, and plenty of flavour.Where to find Chef Pigot on Instagram: @chefpigot @patandbettys @pastalamano@pigotsburgerclub

This one’s for the dreamers building bold things with real heart.In this episode of Not So Avg., I sit down with Alexandra Sangster, founder of The Sarjesa Group and Owner of BUZZD Nutrition, who started a purpose-driven company while still in university. From day one, Alexandra has been focused on more than profit. She’s reshaping the future of manufacturing in Alberta, building supply chains that empower women, and selling goods that make a difference.We get into it all. The entrepreneurial highs and lows, focus on causes close to home, and the importance of community and mentorship when you're building something bigger than yourself.Alexandra shares what it really looks like to lead with values, build through adversity, and never let go of the mission. Even when things get tough.If you're building something meaningful or just looking for that push to start, this one’s for you.🎧 Show Notes:Get the tea here: https://sarjesa.com/BUZZD Nutrition: https://www.buzzdnutrition.com/Trico Foundation: https://tricofoundation.ca/Trico Mindset Videos: https://tricofoundation.ca/you/

This week on Not So Avg., we sit down with Ray DePaul, a tech veteran turned educator who’s helped shape the future of entrepreneurship at Mount Royal University. From his early days at BlackBerry to selling a company to Intel, Ray’s path proves that the most Not So Avg. journeys are built on risk, reflection, and reinvention.🔥 What You'll Learn: 📱 Career-defining moments in tech and what they taught him 🎓 Why MBAs still matter—especially if you're not from a business background 💡 The value of mentorship, honest reflection, and knowing when to pivot ⚙️ Ray’s take on AI, partnerships, and building innovation into your life and work ⚖️ How he balances success with purpose and presenceThis episode is packed with real stories and practical advice for anyone building something bold, especially those just starting out.Show Notes:Lenny’s Podcast - https://www.lennysnewsletter.com/podcastText to app coding - https://lovable.dev/🎧 Listen now and tap into the wisdom of someone who’s been through it all.

In this episode of Not So Avg., we dive deep into a topic that affects everyone—stress and anxiety. These challenges show up in different ways for each of us, but one thing is universal: learning how to manage them can change everything.💡 Key Takeaways from the Episode: 🧠 Understanding stress & anxiety – How they’re connected and why they impact every part of life. ⚡ Personal struggles & real talk – The power of open conversations and setting boundaries. 🤝 Creating space for men’s mental health – Why vulnerability is strength. 🛠 Practical tools for managing stress – Breathing techniques, movement, and meditation to reset your mind.Stress is inevitable—but suffering through it alone doesn’t have to be. This episode is packed with real, actionable ways to stay grounded, take control, and build resilience.Great Resources That Helped MeModern Wisdom with Chris Williamson – Episode: How To Beat Stress, Feel Better & Live Longer (feat. Dr. Robert Sapolsky)📺 Watch hereOn Purpose with Jay Shetty – Episode: If You Struggle With Stress & Anxiety, This Will Change Your Life (feat. Mel Robbins)📺 Watch here

Mandy Balak doesn’t just build businesses—she builds movements. From founding Date Night & Branded Magazine, to creating The Well, The Gathering Summit and Rise Women’s Conference, Mandy has carved out a Not So Avg. path rooted in branding, community, and personal growth.This episode dives into:🔥 Why authenticity is the ultimate business strategy🤝 How meaningful connections fuel personal & professional success💡 The power of intentional living & staying aligned with your purpose🙅‍♀️ Mandy’s “If it’s not a F*ck Yes, it’s a No” philosophy on decision-making.Mandy’s journey proves that success isn’t just about scaling a business—it’s about building something that truly aligns with who you are. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creative, or someone striving for a life that feels Not So Avg., this episode will challenge you to think differently about success.🔗 Where to find Mandy:💼 LinkedIn: Mandy Balak🌎 More about Mandy:🎤 The Gathering Summit: The Gathering Festival📝 Take Time to Grow! Get the free Integration Day prompts: Subscribe here

Josh Russell, one of Canada’s most respected 5th-degree black belts in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, shares his journey defined by passion, perseverance, and relentless discipline.This isn't a Joe Rogan podcast. From being inspired by 80s movies and Bruce Lee to training at the legendary Gracie Bara Academy in Brazil, Josh’s path to success is anything but average in martial arts.This episode dives into:🥋 From White Belt to Black Belt: Lessons in Discipline & Consistency🇧🇷 Training with the Gracies & the Reality of Learning BJJ in Brazil👨‍👦 Fatherhood & Mentorship: Teaching Confidence Through Martial Arts🌊 His Passion for Free Diving & the Thrill of Catching a 300lb Black Marlin🔥 Why Pursuing Passion & Mentoring Others is the Ultimate SuccessJosh’s journey shows that greatness isn’t just about talent—it’s about the courage to pursue your own path, no matter how unconventional. Whether you’re an athlete, a mentor, or someone striving to live a Not So Avg. life, this episode will leave you inspired to keep pushing forward.Tune in now and get inspired by the power of discipline and passion.🥋 JR Academy - https://www.jracademy.co/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jra_bjj_yyc/?hl=en

In this episode of Not So Avg., we sit down with Haley Daniels, an Olympic canoe slalom athlete turned corporate, to dive into a story of grit, advocacy, and reinvention.Haley’s journey is anything but average. From overcoming trouble as a youth, to competing on the world’s biggest stage, she fought not just for herself but for gender equality in sports—paving the way for women’s canoe slalom to be included in the Olympics.This episode covers: 🚣‍♀️ The fight to get women’s canoe slalom into the Olympics 🧠 The mental & physical habits that built an Olympian mindset 💼 Her transition from elite sports to the corporate world ⚖️ Navigating an identity shift after retirement 💰 Her role in corporate sponsorships for the Banff Centre 👊 Why she’s still pushing for equality in sports todayThis conversation is filled with real talk, resilience, and game-changing lessons—for athletes, leaders, and anyone chasing a Not So Avg. path.Hit play now and get inspired by a story of breaking barriers. 🎧🔥Other Mentions:Calm App Insight Timer Waking Up AppWaking Up by Sam Harris - Book Canmore Women's Enduro

"Not So Avg." Podcast: Innovating Education with Lisa DavisIn this episode ofNot So Avg., hostAlistair Shipley sits down withLisa Davis, founder of theSTEM Innovation Academy, to explore how education can be transformed when we stop playing by the usual rules.Lisa’s journey is anything but average—bringing an entrepreneurial mindset fromcommercial real estate into the world of education, she’s redefining how students engage withscience, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Through innovative teaching and real-world challenges, she’s proving that learning isn’t just about textbooks—it’s about preparing for the future.This episode dives into:🚀Why traditional education is overdue for disruption🧠How AI, ethics, and diversity are shaping STEM fields🏗️Building an academy that bridges school with real-world innovation💡The underestimated power of great teachers in shaping the futureLisa’sNot So Avg. approach to education is inspiring, practical, and exactly what we need in a world evolving at breakneck speed. If you’re ready to rethink what educationshould be, this episode is a must-listen.Hit play now and step into the future of learning. 🎧✨

In this special 10th episode of Not So Avg., host Alistair Shipley takes a moment to reflect on his journey—both in podcasting and his unconventional career path. This episode is different. It’s a look behind the mic, exploring the experiences, people, and lessons that have shaped him. Alistair shares: 🔹 The ethos of Not So Avg.—why everyone has something extraordinary to offer. 🔹 The friendships and mentors (like Jay & Ray DePaul) that pushed him past episode 10. 🔹 His winding career path—from carpentry to culinary arts, business school to startups, and eventually, the solar industry. 🔹 Wild stories from San Francisco, including working with an interactive fitting room mirror startup and Calgary robotics company Attabotics. 🔹 Why relationships, persistence, and storytelling have been the keys to every opportunity. This episode is a deep dive into the power of authenticity, consistency, and community—the very things that make Not So Avg. what it is today. Alistair wraps up with gratitude for the listeners and a renewed commitment to keep bringing beyond average stories to the world. Hit play and get inspired by the journey so far.

In this episode of Not So Avg., host Alistair Shipley sits down with Aislinn Grant, founder of the branding agency Grant., to unpack her Not So Avg. journey from managing stores at Lush to diving into the world of robotics and ultimately building her own creative powerhouse. Aislinn shares raw insights on:🔥 Navigating imposter syndrome and stepping into leadership with confidence.🎨 How creativity, authenticity, and decisive action fuel great branding.💡 The power of genuine connections in both business and life.⚖️ Balancing family, career, and self without burning out.🚀 Why her mantra is “Do less, but better.” This episode is packed with wisdom, humor, and straight-up real talk about the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship. Whether you're a creative, a founder, or just someone chasing a Not So Avg. path, Aislinn’s story will leave you inspired to own your journey. Hit play now and get ready to think differently about success. Grant https://www.wearegrant.com

In this episode of Not So Avg., host Alistair Shipley sits down with Grant Lahring, co-founder of Goodlawyer, to explore his extraordinary journey from working internationally with Uber to making waves in the startup world with ventures like Deepwater Farms and, ultimately, Goodlawyer. Grant shares candid insights about: - The Not So Avg. challenges and triumphs of building startups. - How self-awareness has shaped his leadership style and personal growth. - His take on the overhyped world of business books and his preference for real, actionable insights. - Staying active on LinkedIn to foster genuine connections and share valuable lessons. - Balancing health, relationships, and ambition while managing the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship. Packed with raw honesty, practical wisdom, and thought-provoking stories, this episode is a must-listen for anyone striving to lead a Not So Avg. life. Whether you're navigating your own startup dreams or seeking inspiration for personal and professional growth, Grant's story will leave you ready to take on your next big challenge. Hit play now and discover what makes Grant Lahring and his journey with Goodlawyer truly beyond average. Links: Goodlawyer Grant Lahring

In this heartfelt episode of Not So Avg, host Alistair Shipley sits down with Calgary tech leader David Cree for an emotional and inspiring conversation about purpose, resilience, and the profound impact of personal experiences. Alistair and David reflect on their shared history in the tech industry, the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, and the pivotal moments that shaped their careers. David shares deeply personal stories, including his work with CMNGD Linens, a social enterprise focused on creating employment opportunities for those experiencing homelessness. He opens up about the challenges and triumphs of running a business with a mission to restore dignity and hope. This episode goes beyond the professional, diving into the power of community, the importance of meaningful work, and how life’s impactful moments drive us toward greater purpose. A must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration at the intersection of business, compassion, and resilience.

In this episode of Not So Average, host Alistair Shipley sits down with his close friend, David Chytracek—a dedicated teacher, family man, and true example of how ordinary roles shape extraordinary lives. Together, they dive into the essential role of teachers, unpacking the challenges, rewards, and personal stories that define David’s journey in education. From navigating work-life balance to fostering resilience in the classroom, this heartfelt conversation explores the power of recognizing everyday moments that matter. Through personal anecdotes and thoughtful reflections, Alistair and David highlight the importance of happiness, appreciation, and redefining success on your own terms. Tune in to hear how one teacher’s story proves that extraordinary lessons often come from the most relatable places. Book Recommendation: You're Not Listening - Kate Murphy

Alistair Shipley, host of the 'Not So Average' podcast, delivers a bonus episode reflecting on personal and professional milestones achieved in 2024. He discusses the creation of his podcast, the purchase of his first home, the loss of a pet and a family member, and his new role as an executive at a solar company. Alistair shares his journey dealing with stress, the importance of meditation, journaling, seeking mentors, and improving sleep hygiene. He also emphasizes the value of listening skills and maintaining meaningful connections with friends and family. The episode concludes with recommended books, memorable quotes, and an optimistic outlook for 2025. Book Recommendations: You’re Not Listening - Kate Murphy - https://amzn.to/4iRzZiW How to Make a Few Billion Dollars - Brad Jacobs - https://amzn.to/40aWEzG Trust - Hernan Diaz - https://amzn.to/3DqRoPh Bonus Book Recommendation: The Daily Stoic (Boxed Set) - Ryan Holiday - https://amzn.to/4gTme1q Mental & Physical Health Recommendations Ashwagandha - https://amzn.to/3DysNbq Vitamin D - https://amzn.to/408KLKt  Parasite Cleanse with Cellcore - https://cellcore.com/en-ca/products/para-kit

On the final 2024 episode of Not So Average, we sit down with Jennifer Aubin, a trailblazer in Calgary’s tech and startup scene with over 25 years of experience in people and culture. Jennifer’s career spans impressive milestones, from her early days at the University of Calgary’s Olympic Oval to co-founding her own HR SaaS venture and serving as Chief People and Culture Officer at Attabotics during a period of rapid growth and innovation. Jennifer opens up about navigating the high-stakes pressures of venture capital-backed startups, balancing an ambitious career with personal life as an ultra-runner and mother of two, and why she prefers the term "people and culture" over "HR." She offers insights on fostering a thriving workplace culture, surrounding yourself with supportive people, and the power of celebrating small wins. The episode concludes with Jennifer reflecting on her current journey, exploring new opportunities, and sharing her thoughtful approach to deciding what’s next. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a professional navigating career transitions, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation will leave you empowered to embrace adaptability and growth in your own journey.

In this episode of the Not So Average podcast, host Alistair Shipley sits down with Zac Hartley, a Mount Royal University alumnus and multi-faceted entrepreneur. Zac shares his journey from early entrepreneurial stumbles to landing a spot on Dragons' Den with his company Burgundy Oak, and even running for Calgary’s mayor. Now, Zac focuses on finance education through his social media platforms and Skillshare courses, where he breaks down complex financial topics to make them accessible. From mining cryptocurrency profitably to understanding First-Time Home Savings Accounts, Zac has built a reputation for his straightforward, actionable advice. In this conversation, Zac discusses: The value of authenticity over perfection when building content. The lessons learned running a 3D printing business from home. Balancing a fulfilling lifestyle instead of chasing the "next big thing." Managing online trolls and staying focused on personal goals. Practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs to get started. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a finance enthusiast, or someone navigating their own path to success, Zac’s insights will inspire and empower you to take action. 📌 Follow Zac Hartley YouTube: Zac Hartley Website: zachartley.ca Instagram: @zaac_ Skillshare Courses: Zac's Skillshare Profile Tune in now to hear Zac’s story and learn from his experiences!

In this episode of Not So Avg, we sit down with entrepreneur Derek Rucki to explore his journey from top junior golfer to successful business founder. Derek shares his experiences launching TLink Golf and Inspired Go, highlighting the resilience needed to navigate challenges like the closure of TLink Golf. We discuss the power of personal habits, routines, and genuine human connections in achieving balance and growth in life and business. Derek also offers insights into scaling Inspired Go across Canada and the U.S., emphasizing the importance of customer engagement and adapting to obstacles. ✨ First-time Inspired Go salad delivery users: Use promo code NOTSOAVERAGE ✨

Welcome to 'Not So Average', the podcast that celebrates the extraordinary stories of everyday people. Here, we believe that success doesn’t have to come from fame or fortune to be inspiring. In each episode, we engage in candid conversations with community shakers, like pilot and content creator Evan Luft, who joins us for our very first episode. 🎙️✈️ Evan’s journey is a perfect example of finding purpose in passion—he’s turned his love for flying into a career that inspires others while navigating the challenges of aviation. We highlight relatable journeys, practical insights, and the human side of success—setbacks, pivots, and resilience included. Evan shares how he found peace in the clouds, overcame obstacles, and connected with others through his unique story. By redefining what success looks like, 'Not So Avg' empowers you to embrace your unique potential and take your next step, no matter where you are in your journey. Whether you’re a dreamer, a go-getter, an everyday achiever, a lifelong learner, or someone who loves community stories, this podcast is for you. We offer authentic, motivating content that speaks to your aspirations. Join us as we find inspiration in relatable, real-world stories and uncover the extraordinary in the everyday. Subscribe and don’t miss any of our next video releases. ----------------------------------------- Where to find Evan Luft: YouTube  @EvanLuft  Instagram @evan_lufty

Hi, I’m Alistair—a world traveler, entrepreneur, and someone who’s never been afraid to take the road less traveled. From diving into tech in San Francisco to working with bison, running restaurants, and now helping lead one of Canada’s largest residential solar companies, I’ve learned that success isn’t a straight line. It’s about finding purpose in the unexpected and growth in the challenges. Through Not So Average, I’ll explore the lives of people you might already know or see in your everyday life—neighbors, coworkers, and friends who’ve taken unexpected paths to achieve something remarkable. These aren’t celebrities or untouchable figures—they’re relatable individuals whose stories prove that extraordinary success often starts in the most ordinary places. Their journeys will inspire and remind us all that we’re capable of so much more than we think. Our first episode is coming soon, so hit follow and join me as we uncover the twists and turns that define success. Don’t miss out—because your journey might be more "not so average" than you think.