Why Confidence Comes Before Success: A Conversation with Newton Vanriel

Why Confidence Comes Before Success: A Conversation with Newton Vanriel

What if the confidence you've been waiting for isn't something you earn someday—but something you choose today? Sometimes the biggest breakthrough isn't changing who you are. It's finally believing you're already enough. SIGNATURE QUOTE "You are good enough now. Not good enough when you're sixty... good enough now." WHY THIS QUOTE MATTERS It's a simple statement, but it challenges one of the biggest lies many of us believe—that confidence comes after achievement. Newton reminds us that confidence is the starting point, not the finish line. EPISODE DESCRIPTION Award-winning children's author, speaker, and fundraising leader Newton Vanriel has spent his career helping people believe in something bigger than themselves. Whether he's inspiring generosity, writing stories that help children see themselves, or encouraging others to take a chance on their dreams, one message keeps showing up: confidence changes everything. In this conversation, we explore why the stories we tell ourselves matter, how failure can become one of our greatest teachers, and why living with purpose often begins by helping someone else discover theirs. If you've ever questioned whether you're ready, wondered if your voice matters, or needed a reminder that growth starts before success arrives, this conversation is for you. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL HEAR ABOUT * Why confidence is the foundation of achievement—not the reward. * How storytelling can inspire change in individuals, families, and communities. * Why failure is an essential part of building resilience and self-belief. * The inspiration behind Newton's award-winning Soul Sisters book series. * How purpose becomes more meaningful when it creates opportunities for others. GUEST BIO Newton Vanriel is an award-winning children's author, speaker, and fundraising leader with more than two decades of experience helping organizations and communities create meaningful impact. Through his Soul Sisters book series, he is inspiring children to embrace confidence, resilience, diversity, and belonging while encouraging readers of all ages to recognize their own potential. GUEST LINKS 🌐 Soul Sisters: https://www.soulsistersbook.ca 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/newtonvanriel LISTEN ON MAJOR PLATFORMS 🎧 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/2jVR6V7X2kRiCCDXE0FTyl?si=IR3TsfEWR3WA6BzfBRnVXQ [https://open.spotify.com/show/2jVR6V7X2kRiCCDXE0FTyl?si=IR3TsfEWR3WA6BzfBRnVXQ] 🍎 Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-audacious-living-podcast/id1547447345 [https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-audacious-living-podcast/id1547447345] 📦 Amazon Music → https://music.amazon.ca/podcasts/9f7902bb-dec8-4bd9-918d-d1fef21b7c67/the-audacious-living-podcast?ref=dm_sh_pGv57yQvAmAQVp2IIaXoDwtFt [https://music.amazon.ca/podcasts/9f7902bb-dec8-4bd9-918d-d1fef21b7c67/the-audacious-living-podcast?ref=dm_sh_pGv57yQvAmAQVp2IIaXoDwtFt] CALL TO ACTION Enjoying the show? Share this episode with someone who needs to hear this. ⭐ Leave a review: 👉 https://ratethispodcast.com/audacious [https://ratethispodcast.com/audacious]

Reinvention Has No Expiration Date with Lisa-Gay Tremblay

What if the thing you've been putting off isn't behind you... but still waiting for you? Some dreams don't expire with age—they simply wait for the moment you're ready to say yes. > "I still have something to say. I am still relevant. I am still here." WHY THIS QUOTE MATTERS In one sentence, Lisa-Gay Tremblay reminds us that purpose isn't determined by age. It's determined by the courage to keep showing up and sharing what only you can. EPISODE DESCRIPTION When comedian Lisa-Gay Tremblay decided to return to the stage at 67, she wasn't trying to prove anyone wrong—she was simply answering a calling she knew wasn't finished. Her new comedy album, Unretired, is more than a title; it's a declaration that reinvention is always possible. In this conversation, Lisa-Gay shares the lessons she's learned over four decades in comedy, the reality of navigating ageism, and why comparing yourself to others is one of the quickest ways to lose your joy. Along the way, we laugh about husbands, social media, Canadian stereotypes, and even the occasional goldfish mishap, proving that some of life's deepest lessons arrive with a smile. If you've ever wondered whether you've missed your moment, this conversation is a reminder that your next chapter doesn't need permission—it just needs your commitment. IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL HEAR ABOUT: * Why confidence often follows action—not the other way around. * How Lisa-Gay planned her comeback before doubt could talk her out of it. * The freedom that comes from no longer comparing yourself to others. * What four decades in comedy taught her about authenticity and resilience. * Why living your life makes you better at your craft. * The powerful mindset behind the words: "I'm still here." GUEST BIO Lisa-Gay Tremblay is an award-winning Canadian comedian, writer, and performer with more than 40 years in stand-up comedy. A trailblazer for women in Canadian comedy, she was one of the country's first female headliners and continues to inspire audiences through humor, authenticity, and her fearless approach to reinvention. Her latest comedy album, Unretired, celebrates the idea that it's never too late to begin again. GUEST LINKS 🌐 Website: https://lisagaytremblay.com [https://lisagaytremblay.com] 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1funmum 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LisaGayTremblay LISTEN ON MAJOR PLATFORMS 🎧 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/2jVR6V7X2kRiCCDXE0FTyl?si=IR3TsfEWR3WA6BzfBRnVXQ [https://open.spotify.com/show/2jVR6V7X2kRiCCDXE0FTyl?si=IR3TsfEWR3WA6BzfBRnVXQ] 🍎 Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-audacious-living-podcast/id1547447345 [https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-audacious-living-podcast/id1547447345] 📦 Amazon Music → https://music.amazon.ca/podcasts/9f7902bb-dec8-4bd9-918d-d1fef21b7c67/the-audacious-living-podcast?ref=dm_sh_pGv57yQvAmAQVp2IIaXoDwtFt [https://music.amazon.ca/podcasts/9f7902bb-dec8-4bd9-918d-d1fef21b7c67/the-audacious-living-podcast?ref=dm_sh_pGv57yQvAmAQVp2IIaXoDwtFt] CALL TO ACTION Enjoying the show? Share this episode with someone who needs to hear this. ⭐ Leave a review: 👉 https://ratethispodcast.com/audacious [https://ratethispodcast.com/audacious]

What Horses Can Teach Us About Leadership, Communication & Living with Intention | Maria Alessandri

Sometimes the greatest lessons about leadership don't come from a boardroom. Sometimes they come from a place you'd never expect. "At the end of the day, it's not about the horse, it's about me." WHY THIS QUOTE MATTERS That one sentence captures the heart of this conversation. The more we focus on changing ourselves instead of trying to control everyone else, the more authentic, connected, and effective we become—in our work, our families, and our everyday lives. EPISODE DESCRIPTION When I invited Maria Alessandri onto the podcast, I expected to learn about horses. What I didn't expect was a conversation that would challenge the way I think about leadership, communication, parenting, and relationships. Maria has spent years learning from horses, but the real lesson isn't about horsemanship—it's about human nature. Through thoughtful stories and practical insights, she reveals how our energy, intentions, and presence shape every interaction we have. Along the way, we laugh, reflect, and uncover a few truths that are surprisingly difficult to ignore. Whether you're leading a team, raising children, building stronger relationships, or simply trying to become a better version of yourself, you'll leave this conversation with a new perspective—and perhaps a few moments where you'll catch yourself thinking, "Yep... that's me." IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL HEAR ABOUT: * Why self-awareness is the foundation of great leadership. * How "releasing pressure" can strengthen your relationships at home and at work. * The surprising communication lesson behind "Ask Like You Mean It." * Why healthy boundaries begin with "Block. Don't Punch." * How authenticity builds trust faster than perfection ever could. * Why the same leadership skills apply in the barn, the backyard, and the boardroom. GUEST BIO Maria Alessandri is the founder of Horse & People Project, an author, speaker, and leadership facilitator who helps individuals discover powerful life lessons through the wisdom of horses. Drawing from years of experience in natural horsemanship and leadership development, she teaches practical strategies that strengthen communication, relationships, emotional intelligence, and personal growth. GUEST LINKS 🌐 Website: https://horseandpeopleproject.com [https://horseandpeopleproject.com] 📘 Book: Ask Like You Mean It 🐴 Horse & People Project: https://horseandpeopleproject.com [https://horseandpeopleproject.com] LISTEN ON MAJOR PLATFORMS 🎧 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/2jVR6V7X2kRiCCDXE0FTyl?si=IR3TsfEWR3WA6BzfBRnVXQ [https://open.spotify.com/show/2jVR6V7X2kRiCCDXE0FTyl?si=IR3TsfEWR3WA6BzfBRnVXQ] 🍎 Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-audacious-living-podcast/id1547447345 [https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-audacious-living-podcast/id1547447345] 📦 Amazon Music → https://music.amazon.ca/podcasts/9f7902bb-dec8-4bd9-918d-d1fef21b7c67/the-audacious-living-podcast?ref=dm_sh_pGv57yQvAmAQVp2IIaXoDwtFt [https://music.amazon.ca/podcasts/9f7902bb-dec8-4bd9-918d-d1fef21b7c67/the-audacious-living-podcast?ref=dm_sh_pGv57yQvAmAQVp2IIaXoDwtFt] CALL TO ACTION Enjoying the show? Share this episode with someone who needs to hear this. ⭐ Leave a review: 👉 https://ratethispodcast.com/audacious [https://ratethispodcast.com/audacious]

The Audacious Power of Becoming Conscious with Rafael McMaster

What if the biggest thing standing between you and the life you want isn't your circumstances—but your level of awareness? Sometimes the most audacious decision we can make is to pause long enough to notice the stories we've been living by. Signature Quote "You're not your thoughts. You're the one observing your thoughts." Why This Quote Matters That simple shift changes everything. Once we realize we can observe our thoughts instead of automatically believing them, we create space to respond with intention instead of reacting on autopilot. Episode Description In this thought-provoking conversation, Audley Stephenson sits down with Rafael McMaster to explore what it truly means to become conscious. From leaving behind a successful career that no longer aligned with his purpose to helping young people develop emotional awareness through creativity, Rafael shares how one moment of clarity can completely change the direction of a life. Together, they unpack the difference between living on autopilot and living with intention, why awareness is the foundation for personal growth, and how questioning our thoughts can lead to greater peace, purpose, and freedom. If you've ever felt like something was missing—even while doing all the "right" things—this conversation offers a refreshing perspective that just might help you see your life differently. In This Episode, You'll Hear About: * Why self-awareness is the first step toward lasting transformation. * How to recognize the thoughts that quietly shape your decisions. * What it means to move from reacting to responding with intention. * Why purpose often begins when you're willing to question old patterns. * How creativity, gratitude, and service can deepen your connection to yourself and others. Guest Bio Rafael McMaster is a creative leader, artist, photographer, and the founder of Indivisible Arts. Through his work, he helps young people develop emotional resilience, self-awareness, and conscious living by combining creativity with practical life tools that inspire lasting personal growth. Guest Link: Website: https://www.indivisiblearts.org Learn more about Rafael and the work of Indivisible Arts through his official website and community initiatives. Listen on Major Platforms 🎧 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/2jVR6V7X2kRiCCDXE0FTyl?si=IR3TsfEWR3WA6BzfBRnVXQ 🍎 Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-audacious-living-podcast/id1547447345 📦 Amazon Music → https://music.amazon.ca/podcasts/9f7902bb-dec8-4bd9-918d-d1fef21b7c67/the-audacious-living-podcast?ref=dm_sh_pGv57yQvAmAQVp2IIaXoDwtFt Call To Action Enjoying the show? Share this episode with someone who needs to hear this. ⭐ Leave a review: 👉 https://ratethispodcast.com/audacious

The Power of Simplicity: Why Complexity Keeps You Stuck with Mark Struczewski

EPISODE DESCRIPTION Sometimes the thing keeping us stuck isn't a lack of information. It's everything we've added on top of it. SIGNATURE QUOTE "Complexity is the gateway to procrastination." WHY THIS QUOTE MATTERS That one sentence captures the heart of this entire conversation. We often assume that more tools, more systems, and more preparation will move us forward, when in reality, complexity can quietly become a hiding place. In this episode, I sit down with productivity coach and speaker Mark Struczewski—also known as Mister Productivity—for a conversation that goes far beyond productivity hacks and time management. We talk about distractions, attention, overthinking, and why taking simple, intentional action often matters more than finding the perfect system. Along the way, Mark offers practical insights that challenge the way many of us approach our work, our focus, and even our daily lives. If you've been feeling overwhelmed, mentally cluttered, or like your brain has too many tabs open at once, this conversation might be exactly what you need right now. Because sometimes the breakthrough isn't hidden in something complicated. Sometimes it's found in simplifying what already matters. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL HEAR ABOUT: • Why complexity often leads to procrastination and inaction • How notifications and distractions quietly steal your attention • Why waiting until you feel ready can keep you stuck • The importance of finding a productivity rhythm that works for you • Simple strategies to become more intentional with your focus • Why protecting your attention may be one of the greatest forms of self-care GUEST BIO Mark Struczewski, also known as Mister Productivity, is a productivity coach, speaker, and host of The Mister Productivity Podcast. He helps individuals and organizations simplify their approach to productivity, eliminate distractions, and focus on what truly matters. Through practical strategies and thoughtful insights, Mark encourages people to stop overcomplicating success and start taking intentional action. GUEST LINKS Website: https://misterproductivity.com [https://misterproductivity.com] Podcast: https://misterproductivity.com/podcast [https://misterproductivity.com/podcast] Free Productivity Resources: https://misterproductivity.com [https://misterproductivity.com] LISTEN ON MAJOR PLATFORMS 🎧 Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/2jVR6V7X2kRiCCDXE0FTyl?si=IR3TsfEWR3WA6BzfBRnVXQ [https://open.spotify.com/show/2jVR6V7X2kRiCCDXE0FTyl?si=IR3TsfEWR3WA6BzfBRnVXQ] 🍎 Apple Podcasts → https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-audacious-living-podcast/id1547447345 [https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-audacious-living-podcast/id1547447345] 📦 Amazon Music → https://music.amazon.ca/podcasts/9f7902bb-dec8-4bd9-918d-d1fef21b7c67/the-audacious-living-podcast?ref=dm_sh_pGv57yQvAmAQVp2IIaXoDwtFt [https://music.amazon.ca/podcasts/9f7902bb-dec8-4bd9-918d-d1fef21b7c67/the-audacious-living-podcast?ref=dm_sh_pGv57yQvAmAQVp2IIaXoDwtFt] Enjoying the show? Share this episode with someone who needs to hear this. ⭐ Leave a review: 👉 https://ratethispodcast.com/audacious [https://ratethispodcast.com/audacious]