Renegade Conversations

As a child Shelly Elsliger lost her voice to a bully. As an adult, she awoke that silence to become an advocate and powerful force against bullying on LinkedIn. She has become an agent of change focused on diversity, equity and inclusion. Join guest Shelly and I (Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations) for this vulnerable, positive, renegade conversation. And wait until you see her fabulous red heels! Welcome to Renegade Conversations! This is Season Four, Episode 24. Shelly Elsliger is an engaging, globally-recognized LinkedIn Trainer and President of Linked-Express. She coaches executives, leaders, diverse departments, job seekers, and corporate teams, inspiring them to maximize their professional branding potential and social influence online. Shelly is a certified coach, author, and member of the International Coach Federation (ICF) and Career Professionals of Canada (CPC). Shelly is recognized as a Woman You Need to Know by the National Women Speakers Association, a Woman of Achievement, a Forbes Writer, a Woman of Inspiration recipient, on the global list of LinkedIn Training Experts, and trusted speaker for LinkedIn Canada. Shelly started a campaign on LinkedIn called #decidetobekind. Her signature workshop is LinkedIn in High Heels: Empowering Women to rise high on LinkedIn and find their voice while understanding how to power through barriers that may present themselves, imposter syndrome, and the onslaught of bullies who you may pass along the way. Shelly is drinking Zevia Cream Soda - https://www.zevia.com/products/cream-soda mixed with Fizz from Arbonne https://www.arbonne.com/ca/en/shop-all/nutrition/energyfizz/c/energyfizz. RESOURCES SHARED IN THIS EPISODE: Shelly's favourite renegade is Jane Goodall. - https://janegoodall.ca/ LinkedIn in High Heels - https://linkedexpress.ca/linkedin-in-high-heels/ #decidetobekind - https://linkedexpress.ca/decide-to-be-kind/ Due out in January 2025 - Shelly's new book: From Connection to Protection - Combatting Bullying on LinkedIn will be available on her website. CONNECT WITH US: GUEST: Shelly Elsliger LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/selsliger/ Website - https://linkedexpress.ca/ SPONSOR: Wearable Art by Meryl Cook Wearable Art link - https://www.legaleriste.com/en/meryl.cook Meryl Cook, HOST AND CREATOR of Renegade Conversations: Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube -  @merylcookartist  EDITOR: Hamza Latif

My next guest is Lil MacPherson, a woman who has done many things, all with a common thread of improving the earth and the food we eat. And she has even run for political office, not once but twice. She is a successful entrepreneur and sought after advocate and speaker. Welcome to Renegade Conversations! This is Season Four, Episode 23. Join Lil and I (host Meryl Cook) for this energetic and heart felt conversation about being a renegade, food security, saving the planet and more. Lil shares many resources you are going to want to follow up on! Lil MacPherson was born and raised in Nova Scotia. She is the founder and co-owner of The Wooden Monkey restaurants, located in Halifax and Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. Serving food with a conscience is the restaurant's mission and many awards have recognized this statement. Lil is a trained presenter for Al Gore's Climate Change Project and has attended United Nations Climate Change Conferences in Copenhagen, Cancun and Paris.  She has traveled the world, from the Slow Food International Conference in Italy to a Chalice sponsor site in Africa but her passion remains on local issues concerning food sustainability and supporting Nova Scotia farmers. Lil has been sharing her message from elementary schools to universities, private and government sponsored conferences. She often says that the people she focuses her attention on most are the people that eat food. She has also dabbled in politics and ran for Mayor and the Federal Green party. Her focus now is back to the soil. https://thedirtgang.ca/  is one of our new projects. One of her favourite things to do is retreat to her mountain hide-a-way and hop on her tractor. Lil is drinking Chaga tea. She describes Chaga as the king of mushrooms with many health benefits. Lil harvests the Chaga on her own farm in the country. She chops it up and boils it for three days and then drinks it. She says she even gives it to her dog because of its health benefits. Resources mentioned in this episode: Liz has two favourite renegades. The first is Mother Theresa, a person who Lil says had no money but had so much power in the world. The second is Ray Anderson, a man who became a green entrepreneur and ran a profitable company. His book Confessions of a Radical Industrialist: Profits, People, Purpose - Doing Business by Respecting the Earth. is a book Lil thinks everyone should read. Kiss the Ground documentary Lil's latest project - The Dirt Gang Connect with us: Guest: Lil MacPherson Email Facebook Sponsor: Meryl Cook Wearable Art Wearable Art link Host & Creator of Renegade Conversations: Meryl Cook Website EmailInstagramYouTube Editor: Hamza Latif

My next guest is bringing a breath of fresh air and her whole unapologetic self to everything she does. And we have the most amazing wild woman connection. I can’t wait for you to meet her. Welcome to Season Four, Episode 22 of Renegade Conversations. Sophie Bretag is the CEO and Founder of Metta Leaders. She blends her extensive HR and Emotional Intelligence expertise with Happiness Coaching, Positive Psychology, Meditation, and Forest Bathing Therapy. She offers practical solutions to transform workplace wellbeing and happiness. Currently writing her first book on kind leadership, Sophie has been featured in CEO Global, SmartCompany, Body and Soul, Rise of Happiness and Wellbeing Magazines. She has also spoken on multiple podcasts, discussing leadership, kindness, and leading from the heart. Sophie is drinking a glass of rain water with fresh mint and lemon from her garden. She and her husband made the decision to cut out alcohol from their diet about three years ago. Now she keeps it simple, and that's the way she likes it! RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Sophie's favourite renegade is ⁠Holly Ransom⁠. CONNECT WITH US: GUEST: SOPHIE BRETAG LinkedIn Website SPONSOR: WEARABLE ART CLOTHING BY MERYL COOK Wearable Art link HOST & CREATOR OF RENEGADE CONVERSATIONS: MERYL COOK Website EmailInstagramYouTube EDITOR: Hamza Latif

The first word that comes to mind when I think of today's guest is brave. Liz LeClair is a fundraising professional who has spoken out about sexual harassment in the fundraising and non-profit sectors, at great personal cost to herself. Welcome to Season Four, Episode 21 of Renegade Conversations! In 2019, Liz published an op-ed with the Canadian Broadcasting Company (CBC) about her experience being sexually harassed and assaulted by high-net worth donors.  This advocacy work has evolved to include advocating for a more just and equitable sector. She continues to advocate for safe workplaces for fundraisers and nonprofit employees and is a volunteer with the Can’t Buy My Silence Campaign to ban the misuse of non-disclosure agreement globally. Liz is proud to call herself a fundraiser and a feminist. Please join Liz and I (host Meryl Cook) for an insightful, heartfelt and enlightened renegade conversation. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Liz's favourite renegades are Dr. Julie Macfarlane and Zelda Perkins, co-founders in Can't buy my silence Can't buy my silence, a global campaign committed to end the misuse of NDAs (non-disclosure agreements) to buy victim's silence. Sexual harassment runs rampant in non-profits — and it's time for our #MeToo moment  CONNECT WITH US: GUEST: LIZ LECLAIR Twitter/X LinkedIn SPONSOR: LEGALMYBIZ, OWNER CORINNE BOUDREAU Website LinkedIn MERYL COOK, HOST & CREATOR OF RENEGADE CONVERSATIONS: Website EmailInstagramYouTube EDITOR: Hamza Latif

My next guest is an artist, anti-capitalist business consultant and social justice educator. Welcome to Season Four, Episode 20 of Renegade Conversations. Join Bear Hebert and I (host Meryl Cook) for this very insightful conversation. I hadn't known very much about anti-capitalist business before my friend ⁠Anita Kirkbride⁠ (who is an anti-hero social media consultant) suggested I should connect with Bear. And I'm so glad I did! If you've ever struggled with how to align your personal values with corporate culture, or being in business you will want to tune in to this episode. And wait until you hear what Bear has to say about how being a renegade connects with having a sense of purpose that goes beyond and enhances their sense of personal wellbeing! Bear Hebert (they/them) is an artist, anti-capitalist business consultant and social justice educator. They spent most of their life in south Louisiana, and for the past 2 years, they've called Brooklyn home. Bear has been self-employed since 2014, and now they help fellow tiny business owners build thriving livelihoods while sidestepping the traps of capitalism. Bear is drinking a lilac syrup with soda water. The lilac syrup was made from fresh lilac blossoms that were surplus from an order in their partner's flower business. They immersed the blossoms in hot water, strained them and added sugar to make a syrup. Bear says the syrup is stable for about six months. Sounds delicious! RESOURCES SHARED IN THIS EPISODE: Bear's favourite Renegade is ⁠Alexis Pauline Gumbs⁠ ⁠Survival is a Promise. The Eternal Life of Audre Lorde⁠ by Alexis Pauline Gumbs ⁠UndoingPatriarchy.com⁠⁠ CONNECT WITH US: GUEST: BEAR HEBERT ⁠Website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠⁠ SPONSOR: MARY JANE COPPS, THE PHONE LADY ⁠Website⁠ HOST & CREATOR OF RENEGADE CONVERSATIONS: MERYL COOK ⁠Website ⁠⁠Email⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠YouTube⁠ Editor: Hamza Latif

I must admit to being somewhat starstruck by this next guest. Dr. Julie Macfarlane is an advocate for access to justice and for survivors of sexual violence. She has written seven books, including Going Public, a vulnerable account of her fight back from an early history of sexual violence. Join Julie and I for this stellar conversation, where she talks about not quite understanding why speaking up isn't totally normal and why doesn't everybody (especially those with privilege) do it. In this conversation in which she describes herself as a relentless optimist, Julie shares some of the struggles she has had with trying to change the legal system from within. Welcome to Renegade Conversations! This is the first episode of Season Four. I can’t believe it’s one year since I started Renegade Conversations. We are still having so much fun and meeting the most amazing women. Dr. Julie Macfarlane has worked in universities around the world for 40 years. She is Emerita Distinguished University Professor of Law and a Member of the Order of Canada for her advocacy on access to justice and on behalf of survivors of sexual violence. Julie is Co-Founder with Zelda Perkins of Can’t Buy My Silence, campaigning to make the misuse of non-disclosure agreements illegal. Her books include The New Lawyer  (2nd ed, UBC Press 2017),  Islamic Divorce in North America (OUP 2012), and her description of her personal fight back from an early history of sexual violence in Going Public (Between the Lines Press, 2020). Julie was previously the Founder and Director of the National Self-Represented Litigants Project. Julie’s work has been recognized with a number of honours, including the Order of Canada (2020), named as one of Canada’s 25 Most Influential Lawyers (2017), the David Mundell Medal for Legal Writing (2016), the Scholar of the Year Award from the Institute for Social Policy Understanding (www.ispu.org) (2012), and the first-ever Canadian recipient of the International Academy of Mediators Award of Excellence (2005). RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Going Public A Survivor's Journey from Grief to Action by Julie Macfarlane Can't Buy My Silence campaign Dr. Macfarlane will be visiting Nova Scotia as part of the Can't Buy My Silence campaign. There are several public events the week of September 23, 2024. Here's the link to register. Julie's favourite renegade - Ruth Bader Ginsburg CONNECT WITH US: GUEST: JULIE MACFARLANE Websites - ⁠https://profjuliemac.com/⁠⁠ https://www.cantbuymysilence.com/⁠  SPONSOR: MARY JANE COPPS, THE PHONE LADY Website HOST & CREATOR OF RENEGADE CONVERSATIONS: MERYL COOK Website EmailInstagramYouTube Editor: Hamza Latif

Are you taking a road trip this summer? Be sure to download this and other episodes of Renegade Conversations - The Summer Road Trip Edition to listen to on the road, at the beach, or even on your back deck! When my guest today interviewed for her current position as President and Vice-Chancellor of Mount Saint Vincent University, it was one of the first times she didn’t feel disadvantaged by being openly part of the queer community. Join host Meryl Cook and guest Dr. Joël Dickinson for this straightforward, warm and engaging renegade conversation. Welcome to Season Three, Episode 18 of Renegade Conversations. Dr. Joël Dickinson was appointed President and Vice-Chancellor of Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU) on July 1, 2022. Before joining MSVU, Dr. Dickinson was Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Laurentian University and held the positions of Acting Associate Vice-President of Teaching and Learning (2020-2021), and Chair of the university’s Department of Psychology. She held a leadership role with the Laurentian University Sexuality and Gender Diversity Committee and was a long-standing member of the Presidential Advisory Committee for the Status of Women. She also served as an ex officio member of the Laurentian University Native Education Council, through which she has had the honour of learning from the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek First Nations People. Born and raised in New Brunswick, the traditional unceded territory of the Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet) and Mi’kmaq Peoples, she continues to learn the history, traditions, and ways of knowing of these and other cultures as they contribute to the extended community and to her personal growth. Resources mentioned in this episode: My Favourite Murder podcast, hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark - https://www.myfavoritemurder.com/ Connect with us: Guest: Joël Dickinson LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-dickinson-0ab3baa4/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086115843329 - Msvu Pres Joël Dickinson Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/presd_msvu/ Sponsor: Mary Jane Copps Website https://thephonelady.com/ Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - / merylcook YouTube - ‪@merylcookartist‬ Editor Hamza Latif

Are you taking a road trip this summer? Be sure to download this and other episodes of Renegade Conversations - The Summer Road Trip Edition to listen to on the road, at the beach, or even on your back deck! My guest today is Dr. Kristin Williams, a polemical feminist whose specialty is uncovering neglected historical female figures. I had to look up the meaning of the word polemical, which means expressing a strongly critical attack on or controversial opinion about someone or something. I loved learning how Kristin expresses her controversial opinions as a feminist scholar in a school of business and management. Kristin S. Williams, Ph.D. is the Director of the FC Manning School of Business at Acadia University, one of the oldest and most respected liberal arts universities in Canada. She is an Associate Professor in Management at Acadia University and holds a Visiting Scholar appointment at the University of Eastern Finland (Innovation Management). Dr. Williams is also the Founder, Managing Director and Principal Researcher at Prudentia Institute: Youth Knowledge Exchange; home to the award-winning Student Research Lab. She is co-editor in chief at the journal of Culture and Organization and a member of the editorial advisory board at the Journal of Management History. Dr. Williams has received several academic awards, and she is a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal. Welcome to Season Three, Episode 17 of Renegade Conversations! Resources mentioned in this episode: ⁠Historical Female Management Theorists⁠ by Kristin Williams  ⁠https://bookstore.emerald.com/historical-female-management-theorists.html⁠ She also has two open access articles about two of the women mentioned in this conversation: Viola Desmond ⁠https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14759551.2020.1833207⁠ Elizabeth Gaskell ⁠https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gwao.13089⁠ Connect with us: Guest: Kristin Williams ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-s-williams-ph-d-a3200573/ Sponsor: Mary Jane Copps ⁠Website⁠⁠ https://thephonelady.com/ Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations: ⁠Website ⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Email⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠YouTube⁠⁠ Editor Hamza Latif 

My guest today is funny, engaging and calls it as she sees it. She has overcome many challenges, which she shares in a practical, no holds barred way. Hold onto your seats and get ready to be inspired. Welcome to Renegade Conversations. Season Three, Episode 16. Debbie Adams has been challenging assumptions for more than 4 decades. She was one of the first cohorts of women to become a mechanic in the Canadian Army. Vision loss interrupted her career and Debbie decided to go to university graduating at the age of 45 with distinction. She is a sought-after speaker and the published author of four books including Law of Attraction for the Skeptic and Money Mindset. Debbie enjoys sharing the message that success begins in the mind with a focus on money mindset and first-generation success. She likes to ask "What do you need to unlearn today"? Resources mentioned in this episode: Law of Attraction for the Skeptic by Debbie Adams Connect with us: Guest Debbie Adams LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbieadamspeoplecan/ Sponsor Mary Jane Copps Website https://thephonelady.com/ Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - / merylcook YouTube - ‪@merylcookartist‬ Editor Hamza Latif Please share this video with kindred spirits!

Join Corinne and I for a lively discussion of how she has always been a quiet renegade, the impact of  'soul sucking' situations, and how Corinne stepped away from a promising but not fulfilling law career to carve her own path as an entrepreneur that serves small businesses. Season Three, Episode 15. My guest today is a lawyer who has transformed the way she practices law, a hockey player, and a member of a band called ‘The Mother Pluckers.” Corinne Boudreau is the daughter of a teacher and a lawyer. This probably explains a lot about her desire to share and explain the legal stuff. Being a business lawyer since 2002 has given Corinne the perspective and experience to boil things down to the essentials. Resources mentioned in this episode Corinne's Online Legal Template Store - https://www.legalmybiz.ca/store Menna Riley's free ebook The Ultimate Girlfriend's Guide to Networking - https://bit.ly/networkingebook2024 Connect with us: Guest: Corinne Boudreau Website - https://www.legalmybiz.ca/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/corinne-boudreau-9b7b144 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/legalguidecorinne/ Sponsor: Menna Riley, The Networking Queen Website - https://mennariley.com/ Meryl Cook, Host and Creator of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube -  @merylcookartist  Editor Hamza Latif Please share this video with kindred spirits!

My guest today is an indigenous chef, restauranteur, unstoppable entrepreneur and remarkable woman. Jenna White's philosophy is simple yet profound: food brings people to the table and creates a doorway to experience the vibrant diversity of cultures. I love that Jenna says you can make life work for you and "you have the ability to turn adversity into opportunity". Join us for this renegade conversation as we explore the surprising life events that led Jenna on her journey to becoming a renegade. Season Three, Episode 14 of Renegade Conversations. Please share widely! Resources mentioned in this episode: With Grace and Grit, Volume 2 - Indigenous Women in Business CONNECT WITH US! GUEST: Jenna White Website - https://nutfreedessertery.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenna-white-374ba7196/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nutfreedessertery/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nutfreedessertery/ SPONSOR: Helping Nature Heal Website - https://helpingnatureheal.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/helpingnaturehealinc/ Meryl Cook, HOST AND CREATOR of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube - @merylcookartist Editor Hamza Latif

Join Dr. Mayann Francis and I as we talk about barriers broken, her strategic mindset and the many firsts she accomplished in her distinguished career. Season Two, Episode 13 of Renegade Conversations. My guest today was the first African Nova Scotian and second woman to be appointed as the Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia.  She is the second African Canadian to be appointed Lieutenant Governor in Canada. I have admired the Honourable Dr. Mayann Francis from afar for many years. Her accomplishments are many, including many honorary degrees, service at Dalhousie University as the first Distinguished Public Service Fellow in the Faculty of Management, School of Public Administration, and more recently author of two children’s books published by Nimbus. It was a real honour to have Dr. Francis as a guest on this episode of Renegade Conversations. For links to the drinks shared by Dr. Francis in this episode, go to https://merylcook.ca/renegade-conversation-with-dr-mayann-francis/ Resources mentioned in this episode: Books by Dr. Mayann Francis: One Summer in Whitney Pier, Nimbus Publishing, 2015. Mayann Francis, An Honourable Life, Nimbus Publishing, 2019. Mayann's Train Ride, Nimbus Publishing, 2022. Connect with us: GUEST: Dr. Mayann Francis SPONSOR: The IWK Foundation Website - https://iwkfoundation.org/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/iwkfoundation/ Meryl Cook, HOST AND CREATOR of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube -  @merylcookartist  Editor Hamza Latif

Join guest Cynthia Kinnunen and host and creator Meryl Cook for this wide ranging and insightful conversation about women in midlife, and the role of music in forming a new identity and sense of purpose at this life stage. Discover how Cynthia's life is like a birch tree and hear her advice for women wanting to embrace more of their inner wild selves. Cynthia Kinnunen is passionate about the role that music can play throughout our lives. She is a music educator and community musician. Cynthia is also presently pursuing her PhD in Music (Community Music concentration) with research interests in midlife musicking (women in particular), social music-making, and musical identity. Season Two, Episode 12 of Renegade Conversations. GUEST Cynthia Kinnunen Website - https://www.cynthiakmusic.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cynthiakmusic8/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/CynthiaKMusic SPONSOR Creating Space - https://merylcook.ca/CREATING-SPACE/ Meryl Cook, HOST AND CREATOR of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF8wm7oItblklDgzB1xA0rA Editor Hamza Latif

Juanita Peters is an actor, film and stage director, playwright and more. And host Meryl Cook admits to having a bit of a fan girl crush on her for being one of the directors of the award-winning series Diggstown. Join host Meryl Cook and guest Juanita Peters for this fearless and fun renegade conversation. Learn what Juanita has to say about being a creator and the advice she has for other women wanting to access more of their inner wild selves. Season Two, Episode 11. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Africville Museum: https://africvillemuseum.org/ CONNECT WITH US: GUEST: Juanita Peters LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juanita-peters-a1997618/ SPONSOR: The IWK Foundation Website - https://iwkfoundation.org/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/iwkfoundation/ Meryl Cook, HOST AND CREATOR of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - / merylcook YouTube - / @merylcookartist EDITOR Hamza Latif

Join host Meryl Cook and Rosmarie Lohnes as we delve into topics such as what led Rosmarie to taking the word landscaping out of her business title, her experiences of being a female expert in a male dominated industry and how stepping into the role of a renegade was "like a string pulling me into the universe". Season Two, Episode 10 of Renegade Conversations. Rosmarie Lohnes is an Ecological Landscape Designer, Speaker, Consultant and Educator and she is trying to flip the landscaping world upside down! One of North America’s leading experts in protecting priceless coastal properties from erosion, Rosmarie is the founder and CEO of Helping Nature Heal, an award-winning landscape design company that has been recognized globally for its work in preventing shoreline erosion and preserving coastal ecosystems. Rosmarie pioneered the Shoreline Erosion Management system, which has helped dozens of homeowners protect their properties from coastal erosion. CONNECT WITH US: GUEST Rosmarie Lohnes Website - https://helpingnatureheal.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/helpingnaturehealinc/ SPONSOR Creating Space, Free weekly journaling sketching/writing tips - https://merylcook.ca/creating-space/ Meryl Cook, HOST & CREATOR OF RENEGADE CONVERSATIONS Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF8wm7oItblklDgzB1xA0rA EDITOR Hamza Latif

Tia Upshaw is an author, serial entrepreneur, mentor, motivational speaker and more. We recently sat down to have a Renegade Conversation that was heart warming, inspiring, fun and authentic. Tia Upshaw is a dynamic force, blending roles as a devoted mother, accomplished author, and serial entrepreneur. Balancing the demands of raising three children, Tia says she draws inspiration from their experiences to fuel her drive for positive change. As an author of three books in the past three years, Tia empowers readers with her insightful and thought-provoking works. Her entrepreneurial spirit is characterized by relentless drive and innovation. She has birthed several successful ventures and contributed significantly to community growth. Recognized for leadership, Tia has been nominated for prestigious awards like Business Leader of the Year and RBC Woman of Influence. As the Professional in Residence at the Saint Mary's University Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, she mentors aspiring entrepreneurs, shaping the future of business leaders. Tia's commitment extends to her ground-breaking organization, 'Blk Women in Excellence NS & BC,' fostering a supportive community for Black women. Join Tia and Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations for this Season Two, Episode 9. Learn Tia's advice for aspiring renegade women, what kind of a kid she was in grade two, and what question she had for Meryl at the end of the conversation. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Blk Women in Excellence NS & BC - https://www.bwiecanada.com/ The Way to Success: The process of starting or growing a business as a Black woman entrepreneur. by Tia Upshaw. - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/152128303-the-way-to-success Urban Dreams Unleashed by Tia Upshaw. - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/198634739-urban-dreams-unleashed My Journey, My Success: A story about resilience and empowerment  by Tia Upshaw. - https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/205363092-my-journey-my-success Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, Saint Mary's University - https://arthurlirvingentrepreneurshipcentre.ca/ CONNECT WITH US: GUEST Tia Upshaw LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiaupshaw/ SPONSOR The Cultured Coconut - https://theculturedcoconut.com/ Meryl Cook, HOST & CREATOR OF RENEGADE CONVERSATIONS Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF8wm7oItblklDgzB1xA0rA EDITOR Hamza Latif

Maddie Kertay is the BadAss Quilter, outspoken advocate for making the quilting space a diverse and welcoming space for all.  When she is not caring for critical care neonatal kittens, or rebuilding old houses herself you can find her online or at local shows and trade events fostering community for liberal quilters, sewists and crafts people.  Maddie is the mother of 6, grandmother of 1, owner of a VERY spicy vocabulary and married to a very understanding husband. Join host Meryl Cook and guest Maddie Kertay for this meeting of kindred spirits, and get ready to want to become a BadAss Quilter yourself! Discover why Maddie thinks all girls should have the art of placating and a box of matches in their toolkit. Season Two, Episode 8. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: The BadAss Quilters Shop - https://badassquiltersshop.bigcartel.com/ The BadAss Quilter Community at Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/BadAssQuiltersCommunity CONNECT WITH US: GUEST: Maddie Kertay, aka the BadAss Quilter Instagram (DMs welcome) - https://www.instagram.com/the_badass_quilter/ SPONSOR: The Cultured Coconut - https://theculturedcoconut.com/ Meryl Cook, HOST AND CREATOR of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF8wm7oItblklDgzB1xA0rA Editor Hamza Latif

Join host Meryl Cook and guest Nancy Regan for this rollicking Renegade Conversation, filled with heart felt stories and moments of synchronicity and joy. You'll be glad you did! Podcast hosting, MCing, and Presentation Coaching. She recently released her first book From Showing Off to Showing Up, an open and vulnerable account of her experience with Impostor Syndrome and perfectionism, and her journey to a life of authenticity. Resources mentioned in this episode: From Showing Off to Showing Up: An Impostor’s Journey from Perfect to Present by Nancy Regan - https://www.nancyregan.ca/book From Showing Off to Showing Up - audio version on Audible in Canada - https://www.audible.ca/pd/From-Showing-Off-to-Showing-Up-Audiobook/B0CQ33M4PV . Also available on Audible in the US, and Kobo. Coming soon to Indigo, Google play and other platforms including libraries. Dying in Style - Audrey Parker in the Soul Booth - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1nfFZUTYy3Y Brene Brown The power of vulnerability TED talk - https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability?language=en Brene Brown Listening to shame TED TALK - https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_listening_to_shame?language=en Connect with us: Nancy Regan Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/novascotianancy/ Website - https://www.nancyregan.ca/ Sponsor - The Cultured Coconut Website - https://theculturedcoconut.com/ Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube - @merylcookartist Editor Hamza Latif

When my guest today interviewed for her current position as President and Vice-Chancellor of Mount Saint Vincent University, it was one of the first times she didn’t feel disadvantaged by being openly part of the queer community. Join host Meryl Cook and guest Dr. Joël Dickinson for this straightforward, warm and engaging renegade conversation. Welcome to Season Three, Episode 18 of Renegade Conversations. Dr. Joël Dickinson was appointed President and Vice-Chancellor of Mount Saint Vincent University (MSVU) on July 1, 2022. Before joining MSVU, Dr. Dickinson was Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Laurentian University and held the positions of Acting Associate Vice-President of Teaching and Learning (2020-2021), and Chair of the university’s Department of Psychology. She held a leadership role with the Laurentian University Sexuality and Gender Diversity Committee and was a long-standing member of the Presidential Advisory Committee for the Status of Women. She also served as an ex officio member of the Laurentian University Native Education Council, through which she has had the honour of learning from the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek First Nations People. Born and raised in New Brunswick, the traditional unceded territory of the Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet) and Mi’kmaq Peoples, she continues to learn the history, traditions, and ways of knowing of these and other cultures as they contribute to the extended community and to her personal growth. Resources mentioned in this episode: My Favourite Murder podcast, hosted by Karen Kilgariff and Georgia Hardstark - https://www.myfavoritemurder.com/ Connect with us: Guest: Joël Dickinson LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-dickinson-0ab3baa4/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086115843329 - Msvu Pres Joël Dickinson Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/presd_msvu/ Sponsor: Mary Jane Copps Website https://thephonelady.com/ Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - / merylcook YouTube - ‪@merylcookartist‬ Editor Hamza Latif

Jenn Salib Huber is a trail blazer! Her social media posts often begin with "Now this may be an unpopular opinion ...". She's not afraid to speak out, to question the status quo and to be a leader and innovator. Join host Meryl Cook and guest Jenn Salib Huber for this Renegade Conversation about body positivity in midlife and beyond, and ditching the diet culture and more. You won't be disappointed. Dr. Jenn Salib Huber is a Canadian Registered Dietitian, Naturopathic Doctor, and Intuitive Eating Counselor and she's on a mission to help women manage menopause without diets and food rules. She helps women navigate the physical and emotional changes that happen in perimenopause and menopause, including their search for food freedom and body confidence. Working from a health at every size approach, she teaches women to become intuitive eaters and build body confidence at any stage of midlife. In addition to her 1:1 and group programs, she's the host of 'The Midlife Feast' podcast and community that helps women "un-diet" their lives after 40 so they can nourish a relationship with food that helps them discover the magic of midlife! Thanks for watching! I hope this episode has left you feeling inspired. Does the thought of getting in touch with your inner wild self or becoming a renegade make you smile? Are you ready to make a change, reinvent yourself, make time for self-care? If so, follow this link - https://merylcook.ca/renegade-conversations-creativity-gift/ - to get your free gift, a copy of my One Loop at a Time Creativity Workbook sampler. It’s a great way to get started on your journey! Resources mentioned in this episode: Jenn's January 2024 Non-Diet Resolution Challenge (FREE) - https://www.menopausenutritionist.ca/nondietresolution Creating Space, an online membership to help you make space for self care and creativity in a supportive, like minded community - https://merylcook.ca/creating-space/ Connect with us:  Jenn Salib Huber - guest Email - [email protected] Website - https://www.menopausenutritionist.ca/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/menopause.nutritionist/ Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/  Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube -  @merylcookartist  Editor Hamza Latif

April DeConick is an award-winning textile artist and professor of the study of religion at Rice University (Houston, Texas).  After decades of writing about mysticism and gnosticism, she has found that words often are inadequate to communicate the deepest aspects of reality. She has turned to art to communicate what cannot be said in words, what must be experienced and felt first-hand about who we are, where we are from, and where we are going. April's abstract art is filled with bold colours. She combines innovative methods to produce striking and thought provoking work. And her glasses are fabulous! Join April and I for this meeting of kindred, renegade spirits! Resources mentioned in this episode: Form to Freedom - Weaving for Fibre sculpture with Harriet Goodall - https://youtu.be/7ArVNeFXZZA Le Galeriste - Wearable Art - https://www.legaleriste.com/en/ - Made in Montreal where April has her line of wearable art clothing produced. Creating Space, - https://merylcook.ca/creating-space/ - an online membership to help you make space for self care and creativity in a supportive, like minded community. Connect with us:  Guest - April DeConick Email - [email protected] Website - https://www.aprildeconick.art/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/aprildeconickart/ Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube -  @merylcookartist  Editor Hamza Latif

My guest today is Dr. Kristin Williams, a polemical feminist whose specialty is uncovering neglected historical female figures. I had to look up the meaning of the word polemical, which means expressing a strongly critical attack on or controversial opinion about someone or something. I loved learning how Kristin expresses her controversial opinions as a feminist scholar in a school of business and management. Kristin S. Williams, Ph.D. is the Director of the FC Manning School of Business at Acadia University, one of the oldest and most respected liberal arts universities in Canada. She is an Associate Professor in Management at Acadia University and holds a Visiting Scholar appointment at the University of Eastern Finland (Innovation Management). Dr. Williams is also the Founder, Managing Director and Principal Researcher at Prudentia Institute: Youth Knowledge Exchange; home to the award-winning Student Research Lab. She is co-editor in chief at the journal of Culture and Organization and a member of the editorial advisory board at the Journal of Management History. Dr. Williams has received several academic awards, and she is a recipient of the Queen Elizabeth II's Platinum Jubilee Medal. Welcome to Season Three, Episode 17 of Renegade Conversations! Resources mentioned in this episode: Historical Female Management Theorists by Kristin Williams  https://bookstore.emerald.com/historical-female-management-theorists.html She also has two open access articles about two of the women mentioned in this conversation: Viola Desmond https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/14759551.2020.1833207 Elizabeth Gaskell https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/gwao.13089 Connect with us: Guest: Kristin Williams ⁠LinkedIn⁠ - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristin-s-williams-ph-d-a3200573/ Sponsor: Mary Jane Copps Website⁠ https://thephonelady.com/ Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations: Website  ⁠⁠Email ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ YouTube⁠ Editor Hamza Latif 

Jennifer Gillivan, CEO of the IWK Foundation, is a delight. In this wide ranging and truly insightful conversation, Jennifer shares her perspective on midlife and beyond women (we are just getting started), her passion for improving the health of women through better, unbiased research, how to be a renegade and more. Her advice to midlife women and beyond? "This is our best time (like uncorking a fine wine), so don't retire. Instead rewire, change, reimagine. The world needs us." About our guest: Jennifer Gillivan is President and CEO of the IWK Foundation. The Foundation is the primary fundraising and outreach partner of IWK Health, which provides critical and specialized care to women, children, youth, and families throughout the Maritimes. Jennifer is very passionate about the rights of women and children in our society. Additionally, Jennifer was instrumental in the creation of Canada’s Children’s Hospital Foundations (CCHF), a national organization dedicated to improving healthcare for Canadian children. Jennifer continues to be a national advocate for better healthcare for children across Canada. Jennifer continues to be passionate about improving research for women’s health care in Canada and is working towards changing the system for all women through more focused research.  Jennifer has an extensive background in philanthropy, partnerships, public speaking, strategy, marketing, and leadership. Born and educated in Dublin, Ireland, Jennifer immigrated to Canada in 1982.  Jennifer has received many awards, including her most recent (2023) award from Warerstone Human Capital for Most Admired CEO in Non-profit, Social Sector in Canada. Resources mentioned in this episode: – Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men by Caroline Criado Perez - Embracing your authentic self: Jennifer Gillivan at TEDx, MSVU Women Connect with us:  Jennifer Gillivan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-gillivan-icd-d-a8330619/ Email: [email protected] Website: https://iwkfoundation.org/ Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations Website: https://merylcook.ca/ Email: [email protected] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube: @merylcookartist Editor Hamza Latif

Stephanie didn't think she was a Renegade initially, but when it comes to speaking out and going for what you want and know is right, she fits the bill. She tells the story of her harrowing escape with her family from Laos at the age of four and her career as a specialist in Asian peace and conflict studies. Find out why Stephanie says all refugees are renegades in this inspiring and eye opening conversation. About our guest: - Dr. Stephanie Phetsamay Stobbe is an Associate Professor in Conflict Resolutions Studies, a program of Canadian Mennonite University located at the University of Winnipeg, and in the Redekop School of Business. - She is a leading expert on Southeast Asian dispute resolution processes and has conducted conflict resolution and peacebuilding workshops around the world, including in Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand, with political leaders, NGOs, and civil societies. - She is the Curator of the Hearts of Freedom - Stories of Southeast Asian Refugees museum exhibition that is travelling across Canada. - Resources mentioned in this episode: - Hearts of Freedom - Stories of Southeast Asian Refugees project https://heartsoffreedom.org/ - The Midlife Feast Community 20% off the first month with code RENEGADE - https://www.menopausenutritionist.ca/... - Stephanie's drink recipe: https://merylcook.ca/renegade-conversations/ - Connect with us: - My guest is Dr. Stephanie P. Stobbe. - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010062812437 - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-stobbe-16482b11/ - - Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations - Website: https://merylcook.ca/ - Email: [email protected] - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ - - Jenn Salib Huber, the Menopause Nutritionist and our sponsor - Website: https://www.menopausenutritionist.ca/ -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/menopause.nutritionist/ - - Editing Hamza Latif

Welcome to Renegade Conversations. Season Three, Episode 16. My guest today is funny, engaging and calls it as she sees it. She has overcome many challenges, which she shares in a practical, no holds barred way. Hold onto your seats and get ready to be inspired. Debbie Adams has been challenging assumptions for more than 4 decades. She was one of the first cohorts of women to become a mechanic in the Canadian Army. Vision loss interrupted her career and Debbie decided to go to university graduating at the age of 45 with distinction. She is a sought-after speaker and the published author of four books including Law of Attraction for the Skeptic and Money Mindset.Debbie enjoys sharing the message that success begins in the mind with a focus on money mindset and first-generation success. She likes to ask "What do you need to unlearn today"? Resources mentioned in this episode: Law of Attraction for the Skeptic by Debbie Adams Connect with us: Guest Debbie Adams LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbieadamspeoplecan/ Sponsor Mary Jane Copps Website https://thephonelady.com/ Host and creator of Renegade Conversations, Meryl Cook Website EmailInstagramYouTube Editor Hamza Latif

-You may not recognize her face or her name, but when you hear the voice of my next guest, chances are you will say "Oh yes! I recognize her voice. I love her!" - In this sometimes hilarious, sometimes poignant conversation Martha Chaves shares how she singlehandedly de-colonized the Canadian stand-up comedy community, her experiences of being an "other", her early introduction to Carole King's music and how to use your voice to speak truth to power. Fasten your seatbelts and prepare for a fascinating conversation! About our guest: -Martha Chaves is a Latina-Canadian award-winning stand-up comedian, actor, and comedy writer. Known for her smart, sassy, and provocative humour, she's a favourite headliner at clubs, festivals, fundraisers, corporate functions and keynote speaking engagements. - With numerous appearances in prestigious comedy events like Just For Laughs, the Winnipeg Festival, and We Are Funny That Way Festival, Martha has proven her ability to captivate audiences across the board. She has been showcased in two national comedy specials, "Something About Martha" on CTV and the Comedy Network, and "Comics!" on the CBC. - In addition to her stand-up success, Martha has also written and starred in several one-person shows, including "Staying Alive" at the Soulo Theatre Festival, "Times of Trouble" at the Aluna Theatre's Caminos Festival and "The Two Diaries" at the Solocom Festival at the People's Improv Theatre in NYC. - Martha can be heard on CBC radio's "The Debaters" and "Laugh Out Loud". She's a regular on the hit CBC show, "Because News". She's the voice of "Vero" in the educational cartoon Rosie's Rules. - Her album "Chunky Salsa" is available on all major platforms and played on Sirius XM. - Resources mentioned in this episode: - The Midlife Feast Community 20% off the first month with code RENEGADE - https://www.menopausenutritionist.ca/... - Martha's drink recipe: https://merylcook.ca/renegade-convers... - Connect with us: - Martha Chaves on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/comedianmarthachaves/ - - Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations - Website: https://merylcook.ca/ - Email: [email protected] - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ - - Jenn Salib Huber, the Menopause Nutritionist and our sponsor https://www.menopausenutritionist.ca/, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/menopause.n... - - Editing Hamza Latif

Lisa shares tips on how to connect with your inner wild woman, tells us what kind of a kid she was in grade two, reveals several super exciting projects she has on the go AND admits she has always been a maverick! About our guest: -Lisa LaFlamme has been at the forefront of journalism for over 30 years tackling some of the biggest issues of our time, traveling the globe, delivering breaking news and bringing it back home to Canadians. The internationally respected journalist has interviewed major newsmakers, Prime Ministers, Presidents and Princes while always keeping the spotlight on the injustices that plague the world’s most oppressed. The veteran journalist is the recipient of 12 Canadian Screen Awards, consecutive RTDNA awards a Lifetime Achievement Award for broadcasting and journalism and in 2023, The Gordon Sinclair Award for her “exceptional body of work in broadcast journalism.” Recently she was awarded an honorary doctorate from Toronto Metropolitan University (2023). She has previously been awarded honorary doctorates from University of Windsor (2018), University of Ottawa (2014), and Wilfrid Laurier University (2006). A passionate advocate of democracy in journalism, LaFlamme volunteers for Journalists for Human Rights (JHR) and has traveled with the organization to the Democratic Republic of Congo to mentor young journalists in Goma, in the heart of the conflict zone. She serves as honorary co-chair of the annual JHR Night for Rights and in 2022 was awarded the JHR award for Human Rights Reporting. - Resources mentioned in this episode: - Greenland Girls School for Teen Moms - https://greenlandempowermenthub.org/ - The Midlife Feast Community 20% off the first month with code RENEGADE - https://www.menopausenutritionist.ca/themidlifefeastcommunity - Lisa's drink recipe: https://merylcook.ca/renegade-conversations/ - Connect with us: - Lisa LaFlamme on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lisamlaflamme/ - - Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations - Website: https://merylcook.ca/ - Email: [email protected] - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ - - Jenn Salib Huber, the Menopause Nutritionist and our sponsor https://www.menopausenutritionist.ca/, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/menopause.nutritionist/ - - Editing Hamza Latif

My guest today is a lawyer who has transformed the way she practices law, a hockey player, and a member of a band called ‘The Mother Pluckers.” Corinne Boudreau is the daughter of a teacher and a lawyer. This probably explains a lot about her desire to share and explain the legal stuff. Being a business lawyer since 2002 has given Corinne the perspective and experience to boil things down to the essentials. Join Corinne and I for a lively discussion of how she has always been a quiet renegade, the impact of  'soul sucking' situations, and how Corinne stepped away from a promising but not fulfilling law career to carve her own path as an entrepreneur that serves small businesses. Season Three, Episode 15. Resources mentioned in this episode Corinne's Online Legal Template Store - https://www.legalmybiz.ca/store Menna Riley's free ebook The Ultimate Girlfriend's Guide to Networking - https://bit.ly/networkingebook2024 Connect with us: Guest: Corinne Boudreau Website - https://www.legalmybiz.ca/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/corinne-boudreau-9b7b144 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/legalguidecorinne/ Sponsor: Menna Riley, The Networking Queen Website - https://mennariley.com/ Meryl Cook, Host and Creator of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube -  @merylcookartist  Editor Hamza Latif

Welcome to Season Three of Renegade Conversations! My guest today is an indigenous chef, restauranteur, unstoppable entrepreneur and remarkable woman. Jenna White’s philosophy is simple yet profound: food brings people to the table and creates a doorway to experience the vibrant diversity of cultures. I love that Jenna says you can make life work for you and “you have the ability to turn adversity into opportunity”. Join us for this renegade conversation as we explore the surprising life events that led Jenna on her journey to becoming a renegade. Season Three, Episode 14 of Renegade Conversations.Resources mentioned in this episode: With Grace and Grit, Volume 2 – Indigenous Women in Business Connect with us! Guest: Jenna White Website LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Sponsor: Helping Nature Heal Website Instagram Meryl Cook, Host and Creator of Renegade Conversations Website Email Instagram YouTube Editor Hamza Latif

My guest today was the first African Nova Scotian and second woman to be appointed as the Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia.  She is the second African Canadian to be appointed Lieutenant Governor in Canada. I have admired the Honourable Dr. Mayann Francis from afar for many years. Her accomplishments are many, including many honorary degrees, service at Dalhousie University as the first Distinguished Public Service Fellow in the Faculty of Management, School of Public Administration, and more recently author of two children’s books published by Nimbus. It was a real honour to have Dr. Francis as a guest on this episode of Renegade Conversations. Join Dr. Mayann Francis and I as we talk about barriers broken, her strategic mindset and the many firsts she accomplished in her distinguished career. Season Two, Episode 13 of Renegade Conversations. For links to the drinks shared by Dr. Francis in this episode, go to https://merylcook.ca/renegade-convers... Resources mentioned in this episode: Books by Dr. Mayann Francis: One Summer in Whitney Pier, Nimbus Publishing, 2015. Mayann Francis, An Honourable Life, Nimbus Publishing, 2019. Mayann's Train Ride, Nimbus Publishing, 2022. Connect with us: GUEST: Dr. Mayann Francis SPONSOR: The IWK Foundation Website - https://iwkfoundation.org/ Instagram -   / iwkfoundation   Meryl Cook, HOST AND CREATOR of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram -   / merylcook   YouTube - @merylcookartist Editor Hamza Latif

Join guest Cynthia Kinnunen and host and creator Meryl Cook for this wide ranging and insightful conversation about women in midlife, and the role of music in forming a new identity and sense of purpose at this life stage. Discover how Cynthia's life is like a birch tree and hear her advice for women wanting to embrace more of their inner wild selves. Cynthia Kinnunen is passionate about the role that music can play throughout our lives. She is a music educator and community musician. Cynthia is also presently pursuing her PhD in Music (Community Music concentration) with research interests in midlife musicking (women in particular), social music-making, and musical identity. Season Two, Episode 12 of Renegade Conversations. GUEST Cynthia Kinnunen Website - https://www.cynthiakmusic.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cynthiakmusic8/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/CynthiaKMusic SPONSOR Creating Space - https://merylcook.ca/CREATING-SPACE/ Meryl Cook, HOST AND CREATOR of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF8wm7oItblklDgzB1xA0rA Editor Hamza Latif

Juanita Peters is an actor, film and stage director, playwright and more. And host Meryl Cook admits to having a bit of a fan girl crush on her for being one of the directors of the award-winning series Diggstown. Join host Meryl Cook and guest Juanita Peters for this fearless and fun renegade conversation. Learn what Juanita has to say about being a creator and the advice she has for other women wanting to access more of their inner wild selves. Season Two, Episode 11. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Africville Museum: https://africvillemuseum.org/ CONNECT WITH US: GUEST: Juanita Peters LinkedIn:   / juanita-peters-a1997618   SPONSOR: The IWK Foundation Website - https://iwkfoundation.org/ Instagram -   / iwkfoundation   Meryl Cook, HOST AND CREATOR of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - / merylcook YouTube - / @merylcookartist EDITOR Hamza Latif

Rosmarie Lohnes is an Ecological Landscape Designer, Speaker, Consultant and Educator and she is trying to flip the landscaping world upside down! One of North America’s leading experts in protecting priceless coastal properties from erosion, Rosmarie is the founder and CEO of Helping Nature Heal, an award-winning landscape design company that has been recognized globally for its work in preventing shoreline erosion and preserving coastal ecosystems. Rosmarie pioneered the Shoreline Erosion Management system, which has helped dozens of homeowners protect their properties from coastal erosion. Join host Meryl Cook and Rosmarie Lohnes as we delve into topics such as what led Rosmarie to taking the word landscaping out of her business title, her experiences of being a female expert in a male dominated industry and how stepping into the role of a renegade was "like a string pulling me into the universe". Season Two, Episode 10 of Renegade Conversations. CONNECT WITH US: GUEST Rosmarie Lohnes Website - https://helpingnatureheal.com/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/helpingnatu... SPONSOR Creating Space, Free weekly journaling sketching/writing tips - https://merylcook.ca/creating-space/ Meryl Cook, HOST & CREATOR OF RENEGADE CONVERSATIONS Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF8w... EDITOR Hamza Latif

Tia Upshaw is an author, serial entrepreneur, mentor, motivational speaker and more. We recently sat down to have a Renegade Conversation that was heart warming, inspiring, fun and authentic. Tia Upshaw is a dynamic force, blending roles as a devoted mother, accomplished author, and serial entrepreneur. Balancing the demands of raising three children, Tia says she draws inspiration from their experiences to fuel her drive for positive change. As an author of three books in the past three years, Tia empowers readers with her insightful and thought-provoking works. Her entrepreneurial spirit is characterized by relentless drive and innovation. She has birthed several successful ventures and contributed significantly to community growth. Recognized for leadership, Tia has been nominated for prestigious awards like Business Leader of the Year and RBC Woman of Influence. As the Professional in Residence at the Saint Mary's University Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, she mentors aspiring entrepreneurs, shaping the future of business leaders. Tia's commitment extends to her ground-breaking organization, 'Blk Women in Excellence NS & BC,' fostering a supportive community for Black women. Join Tia and Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations for this Season Two, Episode 9. Learn Tia's advice for aspiring renegade women, what kind of a kid she was in grade two, and what question she had for Meryl at the end of the conversation. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Blk Women in Excellence NS & BC - https://www.bwiecanada.com/ The Way to Success: The process of starting or growing a business as a Black woman entrepreneur. by Tia Upshaw. -   / the-way-to-success   Urban Dreams Unleashed by Tia Upshaw. -   / urban-dreams-unleashed   My Journey, My Success: A story about resilience and empowerment  by Tia Upshaw. -   / my-journey-my-success   Arthur L. Irving Entrepreneurship Centre, Saint Mary's University - https://arthurlirvingentrepreneurship... CONNECT WITH US: GUEST Tia Upshaw LinkedIn -   / tiaupshaw   SPONSOR The Cultured Coconut - https://theculturedcoconut.com/ Meryl Cook, HOST & CREATOR OF RENEGADE CONVERSATIONS Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram -   / merylcook   YouTube -    / @merylcookartist   EDITOR Hamza Latif

Maddie Kertay is the BadAss Quilter, outspoken advocate for making the quilting space a diverse and welcoming space for all.  When she is not caring for critical care neonatal kittens, or rebuilding old houses herself you can find her online or at local shows and trade events fostering community for liberal quilters, sewists and crafts people.  Maddie is the mother of 6, grandmother of 1, owner of a VERY spicy vocabulary and married to a very understanding husband. Join host Meryl Cook and guest Maddie Kertay for this meeting of kindred spirits, and get ready to want to become a BadAss Quilter yourself! Discover why Maddie thinks all girls should have the art of placating and a box of matches in their toolkit. Season Two, Episode 8. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: The BadAss Quilters Shop - https://badassquiltersshop.bigcartel.... The BadAss Quilter Community at Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/BadAssQuilter... CONNECT WITH US: GUEST: Maddie Kertay, aka the BadAss Quilter Instagram (DMs welcome) - https://www.instagram.com/the_badass_... SPONSOR: The Cultured Coconut - https://theculturedcoconut.com/ Meryl Cook, HOST AND CREATOR of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF8w... Editor Hamza Latif

Nancy Regan is a professional communicator whose dynamic career includes TV and Podcast hosting, MCing, and Presentation Coaching. She recently released her first book From Showing Off to Showing Up, an open and vulnerable account of her experience with Impostor Syndrome and perfectionism, and her journey to a life of authenticity. Join host Meryl Cook and guest Nancy Regan for this rollicking Renegade Conversation, filled with heart felt stories and moments of synchronicity and joy. You'll be glad you did! Resources mentioned in this episode: From Showing Off to Showing Up: An Impostor’s Journey from Perfect to Present by Nancy Regan - https://www.nancyregan.ca/book From Showing Off to Showing Up - audio version on Audible in Canada - https://www.audible.ca/pd/From-Showing-Off-to-Showing-Up-Audiobook/B0CQ33M4PV . Also available on Audible in the US, and Kobo. Coming soon to Indigo, Google play and other platforms including libraries. Dying in Style - Audrey Parker in the Soul Booth - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1nfFZUTYy3Y Brene Brown The power of vulnerability TED talk - https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability?language=en Brene Brown Listening to shame TED TALK - https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_listening_to_shame?language=en Connect with us: Nancy Regan Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/novascotianancy/ Website - https://www.nancyregan.ca/ Sponsor - The Cultured Coconut Website - https://theculturedcoconut.com/ Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube - @merylcookartist Editor Hamza Latif Thanks for watching! I hope this episode has left you feeling inspired. Does the thought of getting in touch with your inner wild self or becoming a renegade make you smile? Are you ready to make a change, reinvent yourself, make time for self-care? If so, follow this link - https://merylcook.ca/renegade-conversations-creativity-gift/ - to get your free gift, a copy of my One Loop at a Time Creativity Workbook sampler. It’s a great way to get started on your journey!

Jenn Salib Huber is a trail blazer! Her social media posts often begin with "Now this may be an unpopular opinion ...". She's not afraid to speak out, to question the status quo and to be a leader and innovator. Join host Meryl Cook and guest Jenn Salib Huber for this Renegade Conversation about body positivity in midlife and beyond, and ditching the diet culture and more. You won't be disappointed. Dr. Jenn Salib Huber is a Canadian Registered Dietitian, Naturopathic Doctor, and Intuitive Eating Counselor and she's on a mission to help women manage menopause without diets and food rules. She helps women navigate the physical and emotional changes that happen in perimenopause and menopause, including their search for food freedom and body confidence. Working from a health at every size approach, she teaches women to become intuitive eaters and build body confidence at any stage of midlife. In addition to her 1:1 and group programs, she's the host of 'The Midlife Feast' podcast and community that helps women "un-diet" their lives after 40 so they can nourish a relationship with food that helps them discover the magic of midlife! Resources mentioned in this episode: Jenn's January 2024 Non-Diet Resolution Challenge (FREE) - https://www.menopausenutritionist.ca/... Creating Space, an online membership to help you make space for self care and creativity in a supportive, like minded community - https://merylcook.ca/creating-space/ Connect with us:  Jenn Salib Huber - guest Email - [email protected] Website - https://www.menopausenutritionist.ca/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/menopause.n... Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/  Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube - @merylcookartist Editor Hamza Latif

April DeConick is an award-winning textile artist and professor of the study of religion at Rice University (Houston, Texas).  After decades of writing about mysticism and gnosticism, she has found that words often are inadequate to communicate the deepest aspects of reality. She has turned to art to communicate what cannot be said in words, what must be experienced and felt first-hand about who we are, where we are from, and where we are going. April's abstract art is filled with bold colours. She combines innovative methods to produce striking and thought provoking work. And her glasses are fabulous! Join April and I for this meeting of kindred, renegade spirits! Resources mentioned in this episode: Form to Freedom - Weaving for Fibre sculpture with Harriet Goodall - https://youtu.be/7ArVNeFXZZA Le Galeriste - Wearable Art - https://www.legaleriste.com/en/ - Made in Montreal where April has her line of wearable art clothing produced. Creating Space, - https://merylcook.ca/creating-space/ - an online membership to help you make space for self care and creativity in a supportive, like minded community. Connect with us:  Guest - April DeConick Email - [email protected] Website - https://www.aprildeconick.art/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/aprildeconi... Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations Website - https://merylcook.ca/ Email - [email protected] Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ YouTube - @merylcookartist Editor Hamza Latif

Jennifer Gillivan is a delight. In this wide-ranging and truly insightful conversation, Jennifer shares her perspective on midlife and beyond women (we are just getting started), her passion for improving the health of women through better, unbiased research, how to be a renegade and more. Her advice to midlife women and beyond? "This is our best time (like uncorking a fine wine), so don't retire. Instead, rewire, change, reimagine. The world needs us." Jennifer Gillivan is President and CEO of the IWK Foundation. The Foundation is the primary fundraising and outreach partner of IWK Health, which provides critical and specialized care to women, children, youth, and families throughout the Maritimes. Jennifer is very passionate about the rights of women and children in our society. Additionally, Jennifer was instrumental in the creation of Canada’s Children’s Hospital Foundations (CCHF), a national organization dedicated to improving healthcare for Canadian children. Jennifer continues to be a national advocate for better healthcare for children across Canada. Jennifer continues to be passionate about improving research for women’s health care in Canada and is working towards changing the system for all women through more focused research.  Jennifer has an extensive background in philanthropy, partnerships, public speaking, strategy, marketing, and leadership. Born and educated in Dublin, Ireland, Jennifer immigrated to Canada in 1982.  Jennifer has received many awards, including her most recent (2023) award from Warerstone Human Capital for Most Admired CEO in Non-profit, Social Sector in Canada. Jennifer's drink: Jennifer is drinking Barry's Tea from The Great British Shop. Resources mentioned in this episode:  – Invisible Women: Data Bias in a World Designed for Men by Caroline Criado Perez - Embracing your authentic self: Jennifer Gillivan at TEDx, MSVU Women Connect with us:  Jennifer Gillivan LinkedIn Email Website Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations Website EmailInstagramYouTube Editor Hamza Latif

Stephanie didn't think she was a Renegade initially, but when it comes to speaking out and going for what you want and know is right, she fits the bill. She tells the story of her harrowing escape with her family from Laos at the age of four and her career as a specialist in Asian peace and conflict studies. Find out why Stephanie says all refugees are renegades in this inspiring and eye opening conversation. - Thanks for watching! I hope this episode has left you feeling inspired. Does the thought of getting in touch with your inner wild self or becoming a renegade make you smile? Are you ready to make a change, reinvent yourself, make time for self care? If so, follow this link to get your free gift, a copy of my One Loop at a Time Creativity Workbook sampler. It's a great way to get started on your journey! https://merylcook.ca/renegade-conversations-creativity-gift/ - About our guest: - Dr. Stephanie Phetsamay Stobbe is an Associate Professor in Conflict Resolutions Studies, a program of Canadian Mennonite University located at the University of Winnipeg, and in the Redekop School of Business. - She is a leading expert on Southeast Asian dispute resolution processes and has conducted conflict resolution and peacebuilding workshops around the world, including in Laos, Myanmar, and Thailand, with political leaders, NGOs, and civil societies. - She is the Curator of the Hearts of Freedom - Stories of Southeast Asian Refugees museum exhibition that is travelling across Canada. - Resources mentioned in this episode: - Hearts of Freedom - Stories of Southeast Asian Refugees project https://heartsoffreedom.org/ - The Midlife Feast Community 20% off the first month with code RENEGADE - https://www.menopausenutritionist.ca/... - Stephanie's drink recipe: https://merylcook.ca/renegade-conversations/ - Connect with us: - My guest is Dr. Stephanie P. Stobbe. - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100010062812437 - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-stobbe-16482b11/ - - Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations - Website: https://merylcook.ca/ - Email: [email protected] - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ - - Jenn Salib Huber, the Menopause Nutritionist and our sponsor - Website: https://www.menopausenutritionist.ca/ -Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/menopause.nutritionist/ - - Editing Hamza Latif

-You may not recognize her face or her name, but when you hear the voice of my next guest, chances are you will say "Oh yes! I recognize her voice. I love her!" - In this sometimes hilarious, sometimes poignant conversation Martha Chaves shares how she singlehandedly de-colonized the Canadian stand-up comedy community, her experiences of being an "other", her early introduction to Carole King's music and how to use your voice to speak truth to power. Fasten your seatbelts and prepare for a fascinating conversation! - Thanks for watching! I hope this episode has left you feeling inspired. Does the thought of getting in touch with your inner wild self or becoming a renegade make you smile? Are you ready to make a change, reinvent yourself, make time for self care? If so, follow this link to get your free gift, a copy of my One Loop at a Time Creativity Workbook sampler. It's a great way to get started on your journey! https://merylcook.ca/renegade-convers... - About our guest: -Martha Chaves is a Latina-Canadian award-winning stand-up comedian, actor, and comedy writer. Known for her smart, sassy, and provocative humour, she's a favourite headliner at clubs, festivals, fundraisers, corporate functions and keynote speaking engagements. - With numerous appearances in prestigious comedy events like Just For Laughs, the Winnipeg Festival, and We Are Funny That Way Festival, Martha has proven her ability to captivate audiences across the board. She has been showcased in two national comedy specials, "Something About Martha" on CTV and the Comedy Network, and "Comics!" on the CBC. - In addition to her stand-up success, Martha has also written and starred in several one-person shows, including "Staying Alive" at the Soulo Theatre Festival, "Times of Trouble" at the Aluna Theatre's Caminos Festival and "The Two Diaries" at the Solocom Festival at the People's Improv Theatre in NYC. - Martha can be heard on CBC radio's "The Debaters" and "Laugh Out Loud". She's a regular on the hit CBC show, "Because News". She's the voice of "Vero" in the educational cartoon Rosie's Rules. - Her album "Chunky Salsa" is available on all major platforms and played on Sirius XM. - Resources mentioned in this episode: - The Midlife Feast Community 20% off the first month with code RENEGADE - https://www.menopausenutritionist.ca/... - Martha's drink recipe: https://merylcook.ca/renegade-convers... - Connect with us: - Martha Chaves on Instagram   / comedianmarthachaves   - - Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations - Website: https://merylcook.ca/ - Email: [email protected] - Instagram:   / merylcook   - - Jenn Salib Huber, the Menopause Nutritionist and our sponsor https://www.menopausenutritionist.ca/, Instagram   / menopause.n.  . - - Editing Hamza Latif

Lisa shares tips on how to connect with your inner wild woman, tells us what kind of a kid she was in grade two, reveals several super exciting projects she has on the go AND admits she has always been a maverick! - Thanks for watching! I hope this episode has left you feeling inspired. Does the thought of getting in touch with your inner wild self or becoming a renegade make you smile? Are you ready to make a change, reinvent yourself, make time for self care? If so, follow this link to get your free gift, a copy of my One Loop at a Time Creativity Workbook sampler. It's a great way to get started on your journey! https://merylcook.ca/renegade-convers... - About our guest: -Lisa LaFlamme has been at the forefront of journalism for over 30 years tackling some of the biggest issues of our time, traveling the globe, delivering breaking news and bringing it back home to Canadians. The internationally respected journalist has interviewed major newsmakers, Prime Ministers, Presidents and Princes while always keeping the spotlight on the injustices that plague the world’s most oppressed. The veteran journalist is the recipient of 12 Canadian Screen Awards, consecutive RTDNA awards a Lifetime Achievement Award for broadcasting and journalism and in 2023, The Gordon Sinclair Award for her “exceptional body of work in broadcast journalism.” Recently she was awarded an honorary doctorate from Toronto Metropolitan University (2023). She has previously been awarded honorary doctorates from University of Windsor (2018), University of Ottawa (2014), and Wilfrid Laurier University (2006). A passionate advocate of democracy in journalism, LaFlamme volunteers for Journalists for Human Rights (JHR) and has traveled with the organization to the Democratic Republic of Congo to mentor young journalists in Goma, in the heart of the conflict zone. She serves as honorary co-chair of the annual JHR Night for Rights and in 2022 was awarded the JHR award for Human Rights Reporting. - Resources mentioned in this episode: - Greenland Girls School for Teen Moms - https://greenlandempowermenthub.org/ - The Midlife Feast Community 20% off the first month with code RENEGADE - https://www.menopausenutritionist.ca/... - Lisa's drink recipe: https://merylcook.ca/renegade-convers... - Connect with us: - Lisa LaFlamme on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/lisamlaflamme/ - - Meryl Cook, host and creator of Renegade Conversations - Website: https://merylcook.ca/ - Email: [email protected] - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/merylcook/ - - Jenn Salib Huber, the Menopause Nutritionist and our sponsor https://www.menopausenutritionist.ca/, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/menopause.n... - - Editing Hamza Latif