ChangeMaker Leader Podcast

The Brave Move That Changes Everything: Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone to Unlock Your Purpose

What if the thing you have been searching for is not ahead of you, but already inside you, waiting to be seen?

In this episode of the ChangeMaker Leader Podcast, host Leigh Mitchell sits down with Jill Valentine, founder of Ugo Impact and creator of the Ugo Triple Change Effect Model, for a conversation about purpose, identity, and what it really means to do brave things before you know where they will lead.

About This Episode

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Fifteen years ago, Leigh Mitchell was building a business that required her to stand in front of rooms full of people, and she could barely get through a sentence without wanting to disappear. She studied the speakers she admired. She tried to become them. It was a disaster.

In this episode, Leigh gets personal about her journey from stage fright to keynote stages, university classrooms, and boardrooms. She breaks down the four decisions that changed how she shows up every time she speaks, and none of them have anything to do with faking confidence.

In...

Searches for "feel overwhelmed," "stress relief," and "burnout from life" are all at all-time highs in 2026 — and if you're feeling it too, you're not alone. This video gives you a science-backed, 20-minute nervous system reset routine you can do twice a day to regulate stress, reduce cortisol, and reclaim your calm.

This routine integrates vestibular (balance/inner ear), visual (gaze/tracking), and limbic (emotional regulation) techniques — the same tools used in trauma therapy and nervous system rehabilitation.

⏱ IN THIS VIDEO — YOUR 20-MINUTE ROUTINE:

Why your nervous system needs a daily reset

Phase 1...

What actually happens when ambitious women stop scrolling 

and start showing up?

In this episode, Leigh Mitchell sits down with Kim and Linda 

of My Creative Break for a conversation about the magic that 

unfolds when driven women gather in person — the spark, the 

stories, and the sisterhood that no DM can replicate.

"The most powerful thing we ever did was create a space where women felt safe enough to be ambitious out loud."

If you've been craving connection that goes deeper than a LinkedIn commen...

Dr. Jim is a Generation-0 immigrant and lifelong revenue leader who now runs a GTM consultancy for stage-zero founders. He integrates sales, marketing, and partnerships into a single buyer-aligned motion to create frictionless, loyalty-building experiences.

We dig into why the old “more activity = more revenue” playbook falls flat in the attention economy — and how AI can actually help you become more human, not more spammy. From ditching funnels for buyer-journey “rivers” to embedding a content layer that educates and inspires, this episode is a masterclass in modern go-to-market, leadership, and values-driven brand building.

Critical...

On the ChangeMaker Leader Podcast, we are speaking live with the author of Drink: The Intimate Relationship Between Women and Alcohol, a book named one of the year's top 10 by the Washington Post. Part memoir, part journalistic exploration, the book exposes the “pinking” of the alcohol industry.

Together, we will explore: How writing memoirs, personal essays, or even short reflections can help you process big life transitions, grief, burnout, or change your relationship with alcohol.

Ann Dowsett Johnson is an award-winning journalist, bestselling author, and psychotherapist. For more than 25 years, she worked at M...

Discover how Kaliyha De Sousa went from volunteering at Regeneration Toronto, a thrift store supporting homeless individuals and newcomers to Canada, to leading major iPhone campaigns at OMD. In this impactful episode, our ChangeMaker Kaliyha, who is an OMD Supervisor, shares her unconventional path into media planning, including how she grew the nonprofit's TikTok account to 30K followers, leveraged a data analytics internship with an Australian beauty and fashion startup while in university, and landed her dream job with one strategic LinkedIn message.

What makes this episode extra special is that Kaliyha is a student I taught...

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Patrick McCaully of PointMan! News Creation and Rachel Ott of Varger Girl Design—a husband-and-wife duo who've successfully built thriving businesses while sharing both a workspace and a marriage for over 25 years.

In this masterclass on business, creativity, and life, Rachel and Patrick share their journey from having zero business experience to becoming award-winning entrepreneurs. They open up about the early challenges—from quitting steady jobs to navigating financial stress—and the major world events (9/11, SARS, power outages) that tested their resolve.

In this episode, you'll discover:

How do you stand out in one of the most competitive job markets in recent memory? What are hiring managers really looking for? And how can you break into your industry when everything seems stacked against new grads?

In this special episode for post-grad marketing students and emerging professionals, we’re joined by Courtney Sebu, HR executive and founder of Shastra Inc., to discuss how to navigate the early stages of your career with clarity, confidence, and strategy. With over two decades of experience in recruiting and leadership consulting, Courtney doesn’t hold back — offering honest, tactical advice on...

What does it take to close Canada’s gender gap in leadership? In this episode, we sit down with Julie Savard-Shaw, Executive Director of The Prosperity Project, to explore the transformative power of the Rosie Mentorship Program — a free, bilingual, and virtual initiative designed to support mid-career women on their path to leadership.

Julie shares her personal journey, the inspiration behind Rosie, and the real barriers that women in Canada still face in the workforce — from bias and burnout to the lack of accessible childcare. We also discuss why mentorship is a two-way street, the critical role of workpla...

Podcast Description:

In this episode, we sit down with Rebecca, founder of Detour Co., a natural skincare brand born from a personal need for clean, effective products. After relocating to Muskoka, Rebecca transformed her passion into a thriving business, guided by authentic customer feedback and a deep connection to community. She shares how she transitioned from crafting products at home to opening a studio space, her transparent pricing strategies, and her refreshing marketing approach that emphasizes human connection over trends. If you’re curious about building a meaningful brand that resonates with real people, this con...

AI is Changing Media & Careers, Are You Ready?

In a world where AI is disrupting every industry, CBC News hired its first-ever AI Advisor — and it wasn’t a Silicon Valley technologist. It is CBC's Rignam Wangkhang, who is leading CBC into the AI era.

In this episode, Rignam shares how he carved out a role that didn’t even exist a year ago, the cultural challenges of introducing AI inside a legacy media organization, and why the future of journalism depends on adaptability, not coding skills. We’ll break down the AI tools every professional...

This episode will explore Khadija Natali inspiring journey from a small farming community in #India is becoming a voice for international students and young women. We'll unpack how setbacks, rather than roadblocks, have been catalysts for her personal growth, perspective shifts, and purposeful advocacy.

Tired of AI that makes you sound like a robot? This fast-paced, no-fluff livestream is your sneak peek into how to actually use AI to write with clarity, confidence, and alignment. You’ll get practical tips, real prompt examples, and a taste of what’s coming in our May 29 masterclass with AI strategist Susan Diaz.

In just 30 minutes, you’ll learn:

How to avoid the most common AI prompt mistakes

Easy tweaks to make AI write in your voice (not a tech bro’s)

3 plug-and-play prompts for emails, follow-u...

🎧 Podcast Episode: The Power of Vulnerability on Stage and Screen

What happens when the thing you once feared most becomes your greatest strength?

In today’s episode, we explore the power of vulnerability as both a personal tool and a public force. Our guest has spent a lifetime navigating the challenges of a stutter, only to transform that journey into a platform for global impact—through comedy, public speaking, and now, the documentary film Words Left Unspoken. As the film finds new audiences through ChangeMaker Co’s powerful community screening initiative, we sit down to talk abou...

In this powerful episode of The Changemaker Collective, Leigh Mitchell sits down with Brandon B. Happy—artist, activist, and founder of the Cultured Collective—for a heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation on reclaiming identity, healing through service, and the radical power of imagination.

Brandon shares his deeply personal journey from generational trauma, addiction, and homelessness to launching a global movement that started with a single community fridge. Through music, storytelling, and grassroots activism, Brandon and his family have transformed their pain into purpose—offering emotional wealth, not just material support, to communities across the world.

Together, Leigh...

Struggling to hear back from job applications? Tired of being ghosted after interviews? In this high-energy and insight-packed episode, Izzy Piyale-Sheard joins us to drop serious knowledge on how to stand out in today’s crowded job market — with a little help from AI. As a job search strategist and brand builder, Izzy shares practical, no-fluff advice on how to use AI tools to tailor resumes, write compelling cover letters, and research roles like a pro. But it doesn’t stop there — we also dive into building a personal brand that actually gets noticed, networking in a way that feels hu...

In this episode, we sit down with John Castillo to explore the mindset shifts and strategies that drive success in business. From overcoming imposter syndrome to embracing collaboration over competition, John shares his insights on building a powerful personal brand, seizing B2B and subcontractor business opportunities, and thriving in the creator economy. Whether you're an entrepreneur, freelancer, or industry leader, this conversation is packed with actionable takeaways to help you stand out, scale, and succeed in today’s competitive landscape.

How do you break into a marketing career in today’s competitive job market? In this episode, Jared Kligerman answers your biggest questions about launching a successful marketing career. From landing your first role to standing out in applications, Jared shares insider tips, industry insights, and practical advice to help you navigate the journey. Whether you’re a student, a career switcher, or just getting started, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways to set you up for success.

In this episode, we’re joined again by Saeed Zeinali, a visionary entrepreneur who reshaped the mental health industry through groundbreaking med tech innovations. Saeed shares his journey of creating a startup that challenges traditional approaches to mental healthcare, blending technology and compassion to address an urgent global need.

But that’s not all—Saeed also weighs in on the evolving landscape of international trade. From the complex dynamics of Canada-U.S. tariff wars to their ripple effects on businesses and consumers, Saeed offers a unique perspective as both an innovator and a thought leader navigating this challe...

Kick off the new year with purpose and clarity in this inspiring podcast episode! We dive deep into the art of goal setting tailored for changemakers like you. Whether you're striving for personal growth, launching a meaningful project, or aiming to create a lasting impact in your community, this conversation is packed with actionable insights to help you succeed.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

In this episode, we’re joined by YouTube advertising guru Aleric Heck to uncover the secrets behind creating high-engagement ads on one of the world’s most competitive platforms. As the founder of AdOutreach, Aleric shares his proven strategies for helping brands capture attention, drive clicks, and engage viewers through YouTube ads. We’ll also dive into how his company leverages AI to personalize ad targeting, the essential skills he looks for in entry-level talent, and his advice for navigating digital marketing’s evolving landscape. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned advertiser, Aleric’s insights will help you maximize y...

We're diving into a topic at the heart of every modern entrepreneur’s journey: the delicate balance between technological advancement and authentic brand identity. Joining us is Ronsley Vaz, a renowned entrepreneur, author of Amplify AI, and founder of Amplify. With his unique blend of expertise in AI and storytelling, Ronsley will share how businesses can harness the power of AI to scale without compromising their brand's authenticity. Whether you're a creator, entrepreneur, or brand strategist, this episode will offer practical tips on how to amplify your impact through responsible AI.

Ronsley is a computer scientist, software en...

Cheekbone Beauty is the first Indigenous cosmetics company in Canada. The business has created unique, high-quality, and cruelty-free beauty products. Their products are sold in stores across North America, including Sephora and JCPenney. Explore locations here.

Save 20% off sitewide products, and excludes bundles, gift cards, and Perfectly Imperfect product. Use Code CHANGEMAKER20 to save now. 

In this engaging conversation, Jenn Harper, CEO of Cheekbone Beauty will share her insights on:

In this episode, we sit down with Mathew Georghiou, a trailblazer in the field of educational gamification and the CEO of MediaSpark. Mathew has spent decades designing educational games, simulations, and tools that have impacted millions globally. His projects, like GoVenture and businessXP, provide innovative ways to learn business and entrepreneurial skills through immersive, game-based learning experiences. We’ll explore how gamification is reshaping traditional education models, making learning more engaging and effective. Additionally, we'll discuss Mathew's vision for the future of entrepreneurship education and the power of simulations in preparing individuals for real-world business challenges.

In this episode of Empower Hour for Changemakers, we sit down with Christina Esposito, a leadership expert and mentorship advocate, to explore how mentorship can fuel both career and business success. Christina shares practical strategies for building meaningful mentor relationships, fostering growth, and leveraging professional networks to unlock new opportunities. Whether you're scaling your business or advancing your career, this episode offers valuable insights to help you excel. Tune in and discover how mentorship can be the key to your next breakthrough!

If you're inspired by this conversation and want to support women entrepreneurs, consider joining or...

In this episode of The Empower Hour for ChangeMakers, we sit down with Saeed Zeinali, a trailblazing entrepreneur who has disrupted the online mental health space and is is now helping startup founders thrive. Saeed shares his journey from launching innovative mental health solutions to mentoring emerging entrepreneurs, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of building businesses with purpose. Tune in as we explore his unique approach to disruption, the importance of mental health for founders, and how he’s empowering the next generation of leaders.

If you're inspired by this conversation and wa...

In this episode, we'll be exploring the inspiring story of Julie Cole, co-founder of Mabel’s Labels, a business that grew from a basement startup to a multimillion-dollar acquisition. Julie, a mom of six and a recovered lawyer, has mastered the art of balancing family life with business growth. We’ll dive into the challenges she faced in building her company, her experience in selling the business for $12 million, and her passion for empowering women entrepreneurs. We’ll also discuss the importance of mentorship, social justice, and her role as a public speaker and media personality.

Join our Ch...

Today, we’re exploring the highs and lows of being a digital nomad with Natasha Mitchell, a seasoned business strategist and coach who has spent over a decade helping small business owners design efficient, lifestyle-friendly businesses. Natasha, who splits her time between Canada and Australia, will share her personal experiences and insights on what it truly takes to live and work on the go.

Our Expert ChangeMaker Natasha Mitchell

Natasha is...

In this episode of Empower Hour for ChangeMakers, we dive deep into the journey of personal transformation and mental wellness with two leading voices in the field: Coach Che Marville and experts from Wisemindly. Discover practical techniques to boost your mental clarity, build resilience, and find balance in a world that never stops moving. From empowering personal stories to innovative tools for mental health, this episode offers invaluable insights for change-makers striving to cultivate inner peace and outer impact. Tune in to learn how to tap into your full potential and foster well-being for yourself and your community.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of personal transformation with David Cohen, co-author of Live Life Swift. David, a seasoned entrepreneur, coach, and author, brings over two decades of experience working with business owners and startups. He has helped thousands discover their potential through his innovative SWIFT method—Social, Work, Inner, Financial, and Taking Care Of...—a system designed to create incremental, sustainable changes in key areas of life. Join us as David shares insights on how to reignite passion, purpose, and peace through small, impactful steps. Whether you feel stuck or simply looking to level up...

It is possible to have comfortable conversations about race. If you want to TRANSFORM your ability to connect through difference and create the change without division you need to learn more about this program.

Watch this Episode and Follow Our YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/live/_rN6AMnI0Tk?si=A-rEuUJXPQtnjI5M

I graduated from this program in 2024 and now it is your turn. Register here https://lnkd.in/gARiZBQF

A course for socially responsible people who want to learn about anti-racism, diversity, equity and inclusion, by having real conversations so they...

Lindsay’s journey from the world of opera to becoming a powerful advocate for women’s empowerment and alcohol-free living is nothing short of remarkable. This event is tailored specifically for professional women who are looking to redefine their relationship with alcohol and thrive in both their personal and professional lives.

In this session, Lindsay will share her story of transformation, insights into her innovative approaches to personal development, and how she’s helping tens of thousands of women not just quit drinking but excel without alcohol. We’ll discuss the importance of community, coaching, and connection in overc...

In this episode of the Changemaker series, we sit down with Andrew Jenkins, a digital strategist with over two decades of experience in social media and content marketing. As the founder of Volterra, Andrew has helped countless businesses maximize their ROI and enhance user engagement through innovative strategies. We dive into Andrew's expert insights on crafting content that resonates, building lasting relationships with audiences, and using the latest tools and metrics to measure success. Whether you're a seasoned marketer or just starting out, this episode will provide you with practical tips and actionable strategies to elevate your content marketing...

In this episode of the Empower Hour for Changemakers, we're thrilled to welcome Ignacio Chehade, Vice President of Business Development at A.M.A. Toronto, International Consultant, and Fractional CMO. Ignacio brings a wealth of knowledge on the critical importance of being brand-driven, especially for startups, professionals, and marketers.

Join us as we dive deep into how a strong, well-defined brand can accelerate growth, build trust, and differentiate your business in a competitive market. Ignacio shares actionable strategies and insights that will help you transform your brand into a powerful tool for success, whether you're launching a...

Join us as we dive into B2B marketing with Jennifer Kelly, the visionary behind New Initiatives Marketing Inc. Discover how Jennifer's role as a fractional CMO empowers businesses to achieve their marketing goals with innovative strategies and expert leadership. Learn practical insights and success stories that can transform your marketing approach.

About Our ChangeMaker:

Jen Kelly leads New Initiatives Marketing Inc. (NIM). A marketing company serving growing Canadian and American B2B companies in the technical services, industrial (electrical/oil & gas) and non-food manufacturing sectors. They offer Fractional...

Welcome to “Get the AI Advantage in Your Marketing,” an empowering session featuring Susan Diaz. Unveil the secrets of AI and transform your marketing strategy with cutting-edge techniques tailored for ambitious, modern entrepreneurs. This exclusive program, “The AI Advantage,” will introduce you to:

Dive into a world where technology meets creativity, and transform your mar...

The period of planning, launching and growing a business is a wonderful time in your life.

You get to put into motion the ideas in your head. You get to see it all come together. You get to make it all happen – on your time, using your energy and using your wits.

It will be a time full of excitement, fear and uncertainty all mixed together. Breathe it all in and just keep going, because you’ve made a monumental decision that will forever alter your life – for the better!

Here’s why your cho...

Join Anita Heidema, a seasoned Rich Life & Business Strategist, as she guides heart-centred female entrepreneurs and executives through the transformative process of redefining their personal and professional lives for scale, simplicity, and success. With over two decades of experience, Anita has crafted the RichLifeBiz system, aiding thousands globally to hone their unique visions and establish effective strategies for success at any life stage. As a best-selling author and a voice in media outlets like ABC, FOX, and CP24, Anita brings a wealth of knowledge and inspirational insights to this session. Whether you're tuning into her "Ah Ha Moments for...

Petals of Power: How Rachel Kelly Navigated the Art of Pivoting into Event Floristry 

This week, we sit down with Rachel Kelly to explore the concept of pivoting in life and business. From her unique approach to floral design to her adventurous spirit on the road, Rachel demonstrates the power of embracing new paths and opportunities. Rachel’s journey from running the Make Lemonade CoWorking Studio to becoming an event florist is a testament to resilience, creativity, and optimism. Her story includes taking stock of what talents and assets she already had including her est...