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Send us Fan Mail In this inspiring episode of Fascinating Women, host Mark Laurie sits down with Jacqueline Biollo—university professor, serial entrepreneur, former elected official, and internationally published full-figured model. Jacqueline shares her remarkable journey of continuous self-evolution, beginning as a child performer with an agent at age eight to navigating municipal politics, high-stakes business ventures, and international fashion runways. With a life philosophy anchored in "People, Possibility, and Potential," Jacqueline breaks down how true resilience stems from active optimism and rigorous self-reflection rather than the absence of hardship. Mark and Jacqueline dive deep into overcoming imposter syndrome, learning from political defeats, and why changing your mind in light of new information is a sign of strength, not weakness. Whether discussing her midlife thrill-seeking adventures, driving stock cars, or mentoring the next generation of critical thinkers, Jacqueline demonstrates how embracing risk leads to a life without regrets. This conversation offers actionable wisdom for anyone seeking to build unshakeable self-confidence, lead with intentionality, and write their own story on their own terms. The Authority Synthesis (3 Core Takeaways): Optimism is a Strategic Choice: True optimism isn't passive positivity; it's a deliberate daily strategy to find silver linings and learning opportunities in every outcome.Embrace Pivots Without Regret: Decision-making relies on the information available at the time; updating your perspective when new facts emerge is essential for self-evolution.Build Confidence Through Critical Thinking: Overcoming imposter syndrome requires moving beyond people-pleasing, trusting your inherent worth, and stepping into rooms where you challenge the status quo. Bio Jacqueline Biollo, MBA, ICD.D Business Strategist | University Educator | Community Leader Jacqueline Biollo is a recognized expert in critical thinking, innovative solutions, and stakeholder engagement. As a former politician, motivational entrepreneur, arts and culture enthusiast, and community leader, she offers valuable insights into driving innovation, harnessing people's potential, and leading successful initiatives with passion and purpose. Drawing on her entrepreneurial spirit and diverse experiences—ranging from her life in the arts and acting to her political career, Jacqueline inspires individuals, organizations, and communities to explore, connect, and enrich their human experiences through positive affirmation and strategic thinking. She skillfully balances her time between movie sets, the runway, the political arena, her home office, and the gym. Keynote Speaking • The Memory Project | Historica Canada • Canadian Imperial Advantage | HER-conomy • Canadian Public Relations Society | Quebec • NAIT • … so many other events (including live TV news, podcasts, and print media interviews) [email protected] • 780-905-5200 • https://www.linkedin.com/in/s0ngbird/

Send us Fan Mail Wow, Michaela is a driven young woman who is just now starting to explore work life balances. She has a relentless, unstoppable internal drive that is plunging into the chaos of real life. She grew up doing morning chores in -30 degree blizzard because that was not an excuse with animals waiting. Michaela talks about the value of having unfiltered friends providing ruthless, loving accountability. How she failed at her biggest dream then found it was the redirect her life needed.  Realizing burnout could be real, she did a focused pivot slowing down for a healthy lifestyle with lots of play.  Lots of lessions learned and insights shared in this plain talk conversation.  Michaela Lundquist Bio Michaela is a Project Consultant with The Urban Painter, where she develops relationships and helps both residential and commercial clients see a project through from start to finish. While she fell into the painting world by accident at 17, she has loved every minute of being a part of a local Calgary company that focuses on community and colour. Outside of work, she is very active and loves to workout and run, but also loves quiet activities such as reading. One of the most special parts of her job has been connecting with people she would normally never be in a room with, and hearing their life stories. Her direct contact info is 403.999.9082 and [email protected] About Mark Laurie - Host. Mark has been transforming how women see themselves, expanding their sense of sexy, and building their confidence in an exciting, transformational adventure: photography. http://innerspiritphotography.com https://www.instagram.com/innerspiritphotography/ Sound Production by: Lee Ellis  - [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Mark chats with Sam Shackleton, a boldly independent woman. She talks about how travelling to Thailand and Australia fundamentally changed her.  Nearly as much as being a mother of two.  They talk about handling rejections, getting the nerve to charge what you are worth as an artist. It's a personal conversation as Sam exposes how personal turmoil made her resilient. She expresses her path of choosing self-awareness and grieving the version of herself she lost Samantha Shackleton Bio  Samantha Shackleton is the creative heart behind Blue Orchid Creative, where she helps small businesses and entrepreneurs build brands and websites that truly feel like them. With over a decade of experience in branding, graphic design, and web design, she’s passionate about bringing strategy and style together, creating visuals and online experiences that not only look great but work hard for her clients. Samantha loves diving into her clients’ stories and exploring how they show up online, from websites to social media, ensuring everything feels authentic, cohesive, and confident. Whether she’s developing a full visual identity, mapping out a user-friendly website, or refining the way a business presents itself across platforms, her goal is always to help entrepreneurs show up professionally and with confidence. Outside of her design business, Samantha lives life with her partner and their four kids, embracing the joys and challenges of blended family life. She’s also trained in Capoeira for over ten years, a Brazilian martial art that blends movement, rhythm, and community, fueling her energy, creativity, and balance. When she’s not working or training, you’ll find her exploring Calgary’s food scene, supporting local music, or enjoying the outdoors with her family. Warm, thoughtful, and endlessly curious, Samantha brings creativity and care to everything she does, helping business owners grow, thrive, and shine online. Owner/Designer Blue Orchid Creative  PH: 403.901.5762 Blue-orchid.ca https://www.linkedin.com/company/blue-orchid-yyc/ https://www.instagram.com/blueorchidyyc/ https://www.facebook.com/BlueOrchidGraphicWeb/ About Mark Laurie - Host. Mark has been transforming how women see themselves, expanding their sense of sexy, and building their confidence in an exciting, transformational adventure: photography. http://innerspiritphotography.com https://www.instagram.com/innerspiritphotography/ Sound Production by: Lee Ellis  - [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail In this powerful special edition of Fascinating Women, host Mark Laurie sits down with Elizabeth Gil to walk through her unexpected journey with breast cancer. What started as routine blood work led to a life-altering discovery and a series of choices that challenge societal norms of femininity. Elizabeth shares the raw details of her diagnosis, the emotional anchor provided by her husband and children, and her firm decision to opt for a bilateral mastectomy without reconstruction. We explore the transition from "invincibility" to vulnerability, the practical wisdom of using "tomato paste cans" for physical therapy, and why Elizabeth refuses to let the label of "survivor" define her. This episode is a profound exploration of body ownership, the weight of the "guilt backpack," and the healing power of being seen and loved in your most exposed moments. It is an essential listen for anyone facing a health crisis or supporting a loved one through transformation. 3 Core Takeaways: Body Sovereignty: The importance of making medical choices based on personal peace rather than societal expectations.The Routine of Resilience: How maintaining a sense of normalcy and family routine provides a foundation during a crisis.Beyond the Label: Why identity must remain rooted in passion (like Elizabeth's archery) rather than the trauma of illness.Elizabeth Gil Bio My very exhibitionist boobs decided to drop into frame during a liver MRI in 2022, and they were keeping a secret; they harboured two spots of invasive lobular cancer on the right side. Since the age of 16, my breasts were the objects of criticism and unwanted attention; add that to witnessing my mom's ordeal with her cancer journey, and the decision became clear: take them both (I don't want to be lopsided) and do a flat aesthetic closure. I had an incredible surgeon (Dr. Mei), who listened to me, respected my wishes, and did an amazing job creating a body that I am comfortable in. I was also surrounded by the love of so many people, including the Rev Cythia and my mother-in-law, who stepped in to care for me and speed my recovery, bringing me to tears many times. The numbness from the surgery made me feel like I wore a piece of armour, which somehow made me feel stronger. My husband (Sean) was instrumental in my recovery, never putting a demand for new boobs, although we are open enough to speak about missing them sometimes. He also introduced me to the BoobblessBabe (Stephanie), who oozes sexiness thanks to her confidence and serves as a role model. I don't speak about this cancer or the PNET one because I don't want it to be my defining identity. I refuse to be called "a cancer survivor" because it makes me feel like I live in its shadow. Doing the pictures with Mark was another step to reaffirming my connection with this new body.  About Mark Laurie - Host. Mark has been transforming how women see themselves, expanding their sense of sexy, and building their confidence in an exciting, transformational adventure: photography. http://innerspiritphotography.com https://www.instagram.com/innerspiritphotography/ Sound Production by: Lee Ellis  - [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Elizabeth is a leap first kinda woman. She is a granddaughter of Spanish refugees and an immigrant from Venezuela at 18, leaving her family behind. With no English but driven by a dream, her positive mindset makes it work. She is stubborn. Failure is “a first attempt in learning.” Strong women and gentle men shaped her view. Her North Star is always choosing kindness. Her story of misunderstanding her husband’s real name until he proposed is so her is a chuckle. Elizabeth shares her view on how empowerment through education works for her. Her parenting philosophy is that children are only “borrowed” for a while, which is unique. You will feel the energy of personality in the audio. Elizabeth Gil Bio I was born and raised in Venezuela, and I have always felt like I belong to “the in between” as my family is from Spain originally, and the goal was to return there someday. I was raised by very strong women, which made me fearless, and I was protected by two incredibly strong men who showed me that the only limits were within myself. I came to Canada at 18 to learn English, and I keep arguing that I am still working at it, so I can’t leave. I met my soulmate soon after arriving, and he has been my rock and my refuge in sickness and in health; we have weathered fierce storms and have become a safe harbour for each other, and I would choose him again in any future lives. I have two courageous, funny, and authentic younger humans who let me walk beside them not only as a mom but also as a friend. I have two precious heirlooms: my grandmother’s ring and a pendant made by a friend’s dad that carried healing vibes. I am an amateur goldsmith, an avid reader, an archer, and I almost got arrested in Spain when I was pregnant for disrupting a police raid.  About Mark Laurie - Host. Mark has been transforming how women see themselves, enlarging their sense of sexy, and expanding their confidence in an exciting adventure that is transformational photography. http://innerspiritphotography.com https://www.instagram.com/innerspiritphotography/ Sound Production by: Lee Ellis  - [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Roberta Nickel shares insights with Mark about her 18-plus years in the Canadian Navy, as the only woman in her unit. Her time as her mom’s caregiver led to her discovering a love of belly dancing. Into the mix was embracing the Society for Creative Anachronism, a medieval live events group, which was interestingly paired with her entry as a practising Wiccan. She relates dancing for her commanding officer on his 40th birthday. There is the unique experience of guiding a blind friend through every ride at the Calgary Stampede.   Roberta Bio Roberta was born in Calgary and did her schooling   there. She is a second-generation Calgarian.  She is a railway brat as her father worked as a conductor for the CNR and she saw a lot of Western Canada from the window of a train. When she turned 17 and 6 months, she joined the RCNR and   Became a Communicator, which made her father proud. She spent 18 and a half years in the navy and saw much of Canada during that time. She can tell you a lot about that time. Just ask her. After doing her time, she became her mother’s caregiver. She did that until 1998 when her mother passed away. Roberta does Belly dancing and Square Dancing to relive  stress. She also rides horses; can do  Archery; does Background acting; and enjoys Reading. She is a witch and enjoys learning the many aspects of it. She had always wanted to do a Playboy style photo shoot and that is when she met Mark and the rest is history. She has many photos that tell a story. Thank you Mark. Roberta also likes to travel and has been to Scotland and Egypt. Would she return? In a heartbeat. She also works for the Calgary Stampede in Catering . What’s next for this lady? Only time will tell.

Send us Fan Mail Jackie Rainforth is full of fresh insights and joy. She discusses her life, emphasizing her belief in living life to the fullest and her tendency to push boundaries. She is a disruptor and encourages it. She shares a story about defying her father's wishes to marry at 14, leading to a brief marriage and subsequent divorce. Jackie highlights her inspirations, particularly people who face fear and adversity. She values honesty, loyalty, transparency, and integrity. Jackie recounts her near-death diving experience and how it changed her life, making her more assertive. She also discusses the importance of effective communication in sales, using neuroscience and psychology to enhance customer interactions. Jackie Rainforth Bio Are you working hard in your business – but not getting results? Jackie has helped companies grow revenue by up to 77%—because she knows what it’s like to be on the other side: working hard and  winging it. Meet Jackie Rainforth—internationally recognized Sales, Leadership, and Business Growth Expert, and the powerhouse behind The Rainmaker™ brand. She’s an award-winning speaker, best-selling author of The Badass Guide to Superstar Selling, and creator of Selling Made Simple™—a proven system built from real-world experience. But she didn’t start out as a natural at sales. Like many, she was unsure of what to say, when to say it… and felt pushy, awkward, and uncomfortable. What changed? She realized scripts fall flat, and personality wasn’t enough.                                                         Selling without a system - is like driving a car blindfolded—too many wrong turns, time wasted, and missed opportunities.                                                                             Her gift? Simplifying sales into clear, repeatable steps anyone can use. She became the #1 sales rep at every company she worked for—for decades. And those she’s trained? They’ve done the same. Her latest breakthrough—The Entrepreneurial Shift™ Series—empowers businesses and teams to future-proof by leading boldly, selling with strategic precision, and driving innovation, differentiation, and accelerated growth in today’s highly unpredictable world. A LinkedIn Top Voice, Top 500 Global Professional, and Top 1% Social Selling Index, Jackie equips leaders and sales teams with the tools and confidence to  make it rain—results, revenue, and relentless growth.  About Mark Laurie - Host. Mark has been transforming how women see themselves, enlarging their sense of sexy, and expanding their confidence in an exciting adventure that is transformational photography. http://innerspiritphotography.com https://www.instagram.com/innerspiritphotography/ Sound Production by: Lee Ellis  - [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Erin shares her insights with Mark on how art mirrors society, the hidden influence of women’s history, and the importance of staying curious rather than judgmental. With heartfelt stories about her pioneering grandmothers, she illustrates the power of taking risks and finding true purpose. Erin’s thoughtful reflections on self-doubt, incremental progress, and the need for meaningful connection offer a refreshing perspective in a world often driven by surface-level interactions.  Erin McDonald is a visionary leader, cultural strategist, and captivating speaker based in Edmonton, Alberta, advocating for equity, imagination, and resilience across Alberta’s cultural landscape. With an MBA from the Australian Institute of Business and a Master of Cultural Heritage from Deakin University, Erin brings sharp analysis and heartfelt commitment to every table they sit at. An Edmonton Top 40 Under 40 recipient, Toastmasters International-certified communicator, and neuroqueer creative, Erin navigates complex systems with grace, wit, and cinematic flair. Known for their presence, expressive storytelling, and a blend of elegance and warmth, Erin is drawn to the quiet glamour of Old Hollywood and the grounded beauty of the lived experience. Whether reimagining funding models, curating inclusive celebrations, or championing underrepresented voices, Erin’s work radiates integrity and intentionality. Erin founded EM Museum Consulting, bringing lived experience, humour, and fierce kindness to their leadership practice. Erin lives by the principle that reinvention is a form of resistance—and that true power lives in authenticity. Image credit: Janice Saxon --  Better pass boldly into that other world, in the full glory of some passion, than fade and wither dismally with age                                 Joyce, Dubliners  About Mark Laurie - Host. Mark has been transforming how women see themselves, enlarging their sense of sexy, and expanding their confidence in an exciting adventure that is transformational photography. http://innerspiritphotography.com https://www.instagram.com/innerspiritphotography/ Sound Production by: Lee Ellis  - [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Mark’s chat with Krista where the values of authenticity and resilience has gotten her, how her curiosity from a young age shifted society’s momentum from fear and seriousness to lightness. She explains what being a big thinker is and how she got there. Krista shares how her value of lifelong learning gave her continuous personal growth.  Krista gets into her parenting style, part of which is letting her daughters make mistakes while freely exploring things. Branching into what their impact on the world might be. She shares her slowing down technique and how she controls her thoughts to tap into her valued gut instincts.  She gets into her definition of success- a feeling of accomplishment and failure, “My first attempt to learn something.”  We wander around her life, her revelations and her growth. This is a very fun and interesting conversation.  Krista Bio Krista Rabidoux is a Partner at Andersen LLP with over 23 years of experience working across Canada. She specializes in leadership and executive coaching within family businesses, guiding them through complex transitions and ensuring their long-term success. Krista recently earned the FEA (Family Enterprise Advisor) designation, further enhancing her ability to provide specialized advice to family-owned businesses. Her deep understanding of business dynamics and cross-border transactions makes her an invaluable asset in managing and safeguarding the financial health of organizations. Krista has guided businesses and individuals through the complexities of international tax obligations, ensuring compliance and optimizing tax positions across multiple jurisdictions. She continues to leverage her expertise in global mobility, assisting multinational corporations and their employees with the intricacies of working across borders. Her experience includes advising on employer and employee obligations, optimizing tax positions for expatriates, and addressing the unique challenges of international assignments. Krista also serves on the Board of Directors at Family Enterprise Canada and Contemporary Calgary, where she chairs the Finance and Audit Committee. Additionally, she is the former Chairperson of AmCham Canada West Chapter, reflecting her leadership and dedication to fostering cross-border business relationships. Her involvement in these organizations underscores her commitment to supporting family businesses and contributing to her community. Reach out to her  [email protected] https://ca.andersen.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/krista-rabidoux/  About Mark Laurie - Host. Mark has been transforming how women see themselves, enlarging their sense of sexy, and expanding their confidence in an exciting adventure that is transformational photography. http://innerspiritphotography.com https://www.instagram.com/innerspiritphotography/ Sound Production by: Lee Ellis  - [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Mark’s chat with Holly reveals a dynamic woman whose big blended family, with all its drama, has shaped her into an inspiring, resilient, and intuitive leader.  The universe shifted from a nursing to a bold candle business. Her rallying cry is progress over perfection.  Holly talks about experimenting with a four-day workweek and then moving it company-wide. She found that even short meditations for her busy mind changed her profoundly. She has learned to trust her instincts and act decisively. Yet, people call her lucky. (Hint: It's not that that is working for her!) She challenges the idea of hustling, demonstrating that more can be achieved through trust, flexibility, and valuing everyone’s need for rest.  Holly shares how she turns failures into opportunities and how people can harness their energy to pursue their personal legend creation.  This conversation is heartfelt, unconventional, and fully authentic, revealing the powerful force of believing in your own path.  For example, she talks abour her plan to have a Praying Mantis as a pet, it is a thing.  Without apology, Holly says, “Yep, this is a millennial's sensibilities."  She is not stereotypical, and she will change the world. Her passion business, Milk Jar, is the source of many of her revelations and growth.  This is a blast of fresh air conversation from a clearly fun-loving, passionate woman.  You will agree that this is a fascinating conversation.  Holly Singer Bio Holly Singer is the founder and CEO of Milk Jar, an inclusive candle company that creates job opportunities for people with and without disabilities. Milk Jar also supports inclusive spaces by donating $1 from the sale of every product to organizations that support people with disabilities to learn and grow and initiatives that create inviting spaces. In 8 years, Milk Jar has raised over $350,000 for programs worldwide, from Alberta to Ontario to the U.S. and the U.K! All areas where Milk Jar purchases come from so we can support our customer's communities to be more inviting. Holly says her employees give Milk Jar a greater purpose and a positive work culture that she will be sharing with you today.  Holly plans to expand inclusive hiring in Calgary by starting a conversation around the benefits of an inclusive workplace and by connecting businesses to service providers and employees to support their inclusive hiring practices and create more inviting spaces.  About Mark Laurie - Host. Mark has been transforming how women see themselves, enlarging their sense of sexy, and expanding their confidence in an exciting adventure that is transformational photography. http://innerspiritphotography.com https://www.instagram.com/innerspiritphotography/ Sound Production by: Lee Ellis  - [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Catherine Brownlee discusses her journey from a young introvert to a successful, extroverted professional. Influenced by her father's wisdom and mentorship, she entered the oil and gas industry through volunteering. Catherine emphasizes the importance of authenticity, networking, and constant learning. She shares her beliefs in optimism, human goodness, and the search for love. Catherine's pivotal moments include her father's accident, her sister's death, and her father's guidance posthumously. She advocates for disruption, health through diet and exercise, and the significance of deep, meaningful connections. CATHERINE BROWNLEE Bio  Catherine Brownlee enjoys a wide variety of responsibilities and enjoys her work with Andersen in Canada, Alberta Enterprise Group and is the President and CEO of CBI Business Solutions.  She brings over 30 years' experience in Search and marketing, and business development across all sectors. Catherine’s database of over 85,000 contacts demonstrates her capacity to motivate, build and achieve results. Her peers recognized her for her outstanding leadership with a Women of Influence Award and a Paul Harris Award through the Rotary Club of Calgary.  Catherine regularly presents seminars for those looking to find the job of their dreams or building their business.    Catherine is the co-author of three bestsellers. Want to Work in Oil and Gas?, Cat’s Tips to Get the Job of Your Dreams and How to Sell in Any Economy.  In her spare time, Catherine is committed to serving the community through the Rotary Club of Calgary Stampede Park. Her passions include business, politics, tech and AI, human rights, and serving children and disadvantaged communities. Learn More: https://cbibusiness.ca/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherinebrownlee/ https://www.facebook.com/catherine.brownlee.33         https://x.com/CBI_Rocks  About Mark Laurie - Host. Mark has been transforming how women see themselves, enlarging their sense of sexy, and expanding their confidence in an exciting adventure that is transformational photography. http://innerspiritphotography.com https://www.instagram.com/innerspiritphotography/ Sound Production by: Lee Ellis  - [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail The Rose of Tralee - shared by Katie Dooley the Western Canadian Chair.  Any Irish blood in your veins? Even if it is a small %,  you can enter. Katie tells us about the event, from firsthand experience. It starts with a wild March weekend with the winner going to Ireland. It is a pretty big deal. Take a listen. Let anyone with some Irish blood know About The Rose of Tralee,  As one of the Center Coordinators for the Western Canada Rose of Tralee, Katie Dooley is passionate about empowering young women and celebrating Irish heritage. Having applied for the role of Western Canada Rose herself in her 20s, she deeply understands the excitement and honour of being part of this tradition. Katie is dedicated to creating opportunities for ambitious women to shine. She loves witnessing women connect with their culture and be recognized for their talents and achievements. Last year, she travelled to Tralee, Ireland, to experience the Rose of Tralee International Festival firsthand, a journey that deepened her appreciation for this global celebration of Irish culture. Whether mentoring potential Roses or coordinating meaningful events, Katie champions the values of community, empowerment, and heritage. She brings boundless enthusiasm and a heartfelt commitment to ensuring this tradition continues to inspire and connect women across Western Canada and beyond. https://roseoftralee.ie https://roseoftralee.ie/apply-to-the-rose-of-tralee/ https://www.facebook.com/westerncanadarose  About Mark Laurie - Host. Mark has been transforming how women see themselves, enlarging their sense of sexy, and expanding their confidence in an exciting adventure that is transformational photography. http://innerspiritphotography.com https://www.instagram.com/innerspiritphotography/ Sound Production by: Lee Ellis  - [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Jane Duncan, a 67-year-old dancer and educator, shares insights on her life and careers. She always knew she was a dancer, starting when she was 11. For her, dance was a healing and power source. While she cherished it, always seeing herself as a dancer, she changed careers, got degrees and flourished. She shares her mentors and how they changed her life.  She now volunteers with an organization that accredits fire organizations. All her life lessons she lays out.  Jane Duncan: Dancer, Educator, Contributor   As is the case for most dancers, we have a knowing from an early age that we are dancers. The blessing with that knowing, is that we always know who we are no matter who old, fat, or infirm we may become. I stopped trying to make my living as a dancer in my mid to late twenties but since then, I have danced on the edges of my life. In addition to dance as a primary definer, so is education. I have been an educator of adults since I was barely an adult myself beginning as a dance educator at Mount Royal College. At that time one of my students said to me, “Jane, what you are is an educator.” I was mortally offended! I thought, “I am a dancer!!” The student was right, though. I am also an educator. This understanding culminated in earning a doctorate in adult education and higher education leadership and lead me from teaching in post-secondary to administering education in emergency services to fulfill the need for a new challenge.  This experience resulted in an invitation to be appointed as a volunteer for an emergency services accreditation body. I have been contributing to that cause beginning in 2008. I have been given many gifts and giving back is what I am called to do.    About Mark Laurie - Host. Mark has been transforming how women see themselves, enlarging their sense of sexy, and expanding their confidence in an exciting adventure that is transformational photography. http://innerspiritphotography.com https://www.instagram.com/innerspiritphotography/ Sound Production by: Lee Ellis  - [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Henriette shares how being an introvert made immigrating from Holland at 35 with young children a bigger challenge than for most. She had language issues and job difficulties. Her family stepped away from religion, to the disapproval of her Holland family. She talks about how naive they were about Canada. The evolution of beliefs, personal growth and resilience. Her passion for cars. Her unique volunteer work helping new mothers care for twins and triplets. It is a unique and diverse conversation with many insights on an immigrant’s view of Canada and belonging. Henriette Bio I moved to Calgary from The Netherlands with my husband and 2 sons in 2002. I struggled to find a job, being strangely over-qualified yet under-educated as immigrants often are, doing all kinds of different things and even dabbling with entrepreneurship, which did not suit me at all. In 2017, I retired and started taking courses in Sociology and, later, Women’s Gender studies at Athabasca University to learn about Canadian society and culture.  If I am not taking a course, I work as a volunteer with AHS to help out families with newborn twins or triplets in their homes.  I read lots of books, but also a Dutch newspaper, CBC.ca and Al Jazeera. My “motto” is: ”Explore everything, discard what is bad and integrate into your life what is good.” I am an avid traveller and Reiki Master. I love modern art. I make all important decisions using my intuition. I recently started painting after encouragement from my lovely and artistic daughters-in-law.  Some words to describe me? Woman, thinker, feminist, student of and for life, introvert, reader, open-minded and fashionable. About Mark Laurie - Host. Mark has been transforming how women see themselves, enlarging their sense of sexy, and expanding their confidence in an exciting adventure that is transformational photography. http://innerspiritphotography.com https://www.instagram.com/innerspiritphotography/ Sound Production by: Lee Ellis  - [email protected]

Send us Fan Mail Katie shares some personal insights with Mark. She tells about life advice a babysitter gave her 10-year-old self that still guides her. How a dancing instructor became a role model for a designer. Her love and advice on travelling as a single woman. Katie shares the power of being nice, giving back, and working hard. The personality traits she cherishes and those she wishes she had. Katie even talked about a plan for an extensive, well-designed obituary. This chat is funny and unexpected at times but always insightful.  Katie Dooley Bio She is an award-winning branding expert and the creative force behind Paper Lime Creative. With a decade of experience in graphic design, she specializes in helping businesses craft authentic, eye-catching identities that resonate with their audiences. Her passion for bold, innovative design and strategic storytelling has earned her accolades in the industry, making her a trusted partner for clients looking to elevate their brands. In addition to her work in branding, Katie co-hosts The Holy Watermelon, a comparative religious studies podcast that explores beliefs, practices, and the fascinating stories behind the world’s religions. Through this platform, she brings curiosity complex conversations, engaging listeners with humor and insight. A former competitor at the North American Irish Dance Championships, Katie has a lifelong connection to her Irish heritage. She’s also an avid traveler who finds inspiration in solo adventures, discovering new cultures, and immersing herself in diverse perspectives. With creativity, curiosity, and a passion for connection at the heart of everything she does, Katie inspires others to think boldly, embrace new ideas, and celebrate what makes them unique.  Reach out to Katie at: https://www.instagram.com/paperlimecreative/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/katieadooley/ https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/holy-watermelon/id1534587756 About Mark Laurie - Host. Mark has been transforming how women see themselves, enlarging their sense of sexy, and expanding their confidence in an exciting adventure that is transformational photography. http://innerspiritphotography.com https://www.instagram.com/innerspiritphotography/ Sound Production by: Lee Ellis  - [email protected]