Chatter that Matters

Dr. Brian Goldman is a veteran ER physician and an award-winning medical reporter for CBC Television's The Health Show and The National. He's known across Canada as CBC Radio One's "House Doctor." Brian has a proven knack for making sense of medical baffelgab. He has two top-rated shows, White Coat Black Art and The Dose. On Chatter that Matters, Dr. Goldman shares his journey from a young medical resident to seasoned physician, and how, including the loss of his sister to dementia, he learned that medicine is as much about human connection as it is about clinical expertise. He also offers his thoughts on what need to happen to care for our health care. Leanne Kaufman then joins the show to discuss the exciting work RBC Wealth Management is doing to support healthy ageing.

'Heaven is the Feeling One Leaves on Earth.' Abandoned at Birth. Join me this week on Chatter that Matters for the heart-wrenching and uplifting story of Janet Sherlund, author of Abandoned at Birth: Searching for the Arms That Once Held Me. Janet discusses the profound effects of adoption on her identity and self-esteem, sharing her lifelong quest to reconnect with her birth parents and uncover who she is. I cried when Janet discovered her adoption details, celebrated her life-changing reunion with her birth father and was sickened by the coldness of her birth mother. I also learned about the critical importance of understanding one's biological roots. As the episode unfolds, Janet's courage, resilience, and the complexities of love and family will move you. Ending on hope and positivity, this conversation celebrates the bonds that tie us together and the enduring power of understanding where we come from. This compelling episode will open your heart and touch your soul. 1. My opening 2. [00:01:23]: Janet describes the compulsion to reconnect with her birth mother. 3. [00:01:41]: Janet Sherlund discusses why she wrote her memoir. 4. [00:02:55]: Janet reads the prologue of her book, describing her drive to the adoption agency and her emotions. 5. [00:04:38]: Janet learns important facts from her adoption file. 6. [00:12:39]: Tony and Janet discuss her complicated relationship with her adoptive mother, Audrey. 7. [00:21:28]: Janet talks about the importance of biological roots and the strengths she discovered through her DNA. 8. [00:26:42]: The profound impact of meeting her birth father, Larry, and the unconditional love she experienced. 9. [00:31:07]: Janet explains her ongoing desire to connect with her birth mother and the rejection she felt when the meeting finally happened. [00:43:22]: Reflections on the lessons from Janet's story, her adoptive and birth parents, and the powerful message about love and identity. My three takeaways. To connect with Janet and to buy her book, Abandonedatbirthbook.com

To build excitement for the Paris Olympics episode, I sit down with the inspirational Avalon Wasteneys, a Canadian Olympic Gold Medallist and a powerhouse in the rowing world. Avalon shares her journey from being raised in a family of world-renowned athletes to what it took to be part of a team that won Olympic Gold. From her early days as a competitive cross-country skier to putting her oar into the water, Avalon's lane is powered by resilience, passion, and unwavering self-belief. Avalon shares how she navigated ADHD, anxiety, and severe health issues like mono and chronic bronchitis to chase her dream. My favourite quote from Avalon is: 'My 'why' isn't about being the best in the world but discovering what's possible and becoming the best version of myself.' You will also hear from another Canadian phenom, Sam Effah, a two-time Canadian 100m Champion – turned brand marketer at RBC. Sam discusses what RBC is doing with the RBC Training Ground to help Canadian athletes pursue their dreams. It's a fantastic episode to share with your entire family. To learn more about RBC Training Ground, click here: https://www.rbctrainingground.ca.

Emma Beehler - Her Beautiful Autistic Mind. In today's episode of Chatter that Matters, we challenge perceptions about neurodiversity. Society often views neurodiverse individuals through a lens of limitation versus exploration. We overlook the extraordinary contributions of neurodiverse minds to our world. From scientific breakthroughs to artistic masterpieces, many of our advancements have been through their unique lens onto our world. Joining me are Emma Beehler, a remarkable young woman who is exceptional in math and music and a world-renowned competitive cheerleader, and her parents, Brian and Natalie. Emma offers profound insights into how she views the world and how the world views her. Listening to Emma, you'll discover how we can all learn and grow from her insights, why she is a crusader for positive change, and why we value her beautiful autistic mind.

Canada. It’s Time. On our country's birthday, I break my show format to discuss what we need to do as a nation to pursue our future. This future is not a distant dream but a reality we must actively shape, marked by purpose, passion, pursuit, and laddering to prosperity and peace. I begin the show with my take on Canada and why we need to create a magnetic culture to attract the best and the brightest to stay in Canada and come to Canada to shift from a passive, reactive and negative mindset to one brimming with ambition and destiny. Next, we hear from two outstanding Canadians who offer their unique perspectives: John Ruffolo, a leading figure as the founder of Maverick Private Equity and a catalyst for positive change in shaping Canada's new economy, and John Stackhouse, who heads RBC's Economics and Thought Leadership group, influencing the organization's work on economic, technological, and social issues. Each offers powerful and profound thoughts on creating the opportunities and standard of living that we need, want and deserve. This episode is a must-listen for anyone deeply invested in Canada and its future—and the future of all democracies. It is not only easy to listen to, but it also discusses, shares, and explores a wealth of topics. Happy Birthday, Canada. It's time to unwrap our future.

You will soon hear why I found Derek Blais an exceptional guest. He has the spirit of youth but with the presence and insights of an elder. Derek's journey embodies the spirit of Chatter that Matters by sharing how he overcame circumstances to chase his dreams but change his world and ours for the better. Derek speaks candidly about his struggles and triumphs, including the pivotal moment of embracing his Indigenous identity and the profound impact of a life-threatening and then-changing motorcycle accident. I begin the interview by sharing Derek's mantra - "Be yourself. Everyone else is taken," setting the tone for exploring authenticity, truth and reconciliation. Derek's mother is a victim of the sixties scoop, where Indigenous babies and children were taken from their parents and communities and placed in primarily white and middle-class homes. Derek's Father is Canadian, and Derek draws upon the tales of his two peoples to help shape who he is, why he matters and how through storytelling he can bring about positive change. Derek's international award-winning and groundbreaking project, Missing Matoaka, challenges the romanticized Disney portrayal of Pocahontas by telling the true story, a tale of tragedy and heartbreak, while also calling for justice in the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Today, at LifeLong Crush a boutique advertising agency, Derek is a creative leader who works with his team to tackle many societal and brand issues. It is a fantastic tale of two peoples, with many lessons to be discovered and learned, all wrapped within his brilliant creative mind. To learn more about LIFELONG CRUSH - https://www.lifelongcrush.com

How do I follow up on last week's interview with Malcolm Gladwell? Joining me today is best-selling author and world-renowned speaker Joe Roberts. Joe shares his moving and incredible journey from homelessness and addiction to becoming an entrepreneur, CEO, and, today, an influential advocate for youth. Joe lives to inspire change and offers actionable steps for overcoming challenges, fostering resilience, and reclaiming dreams. Andrea Barrack from RBC returns to the show to discuss their Purpose Framework and why investing $2 billion across three key pillars matters to you, to me, and to RBC.

Malcolm Gladwell is an outlier in his own right, as a journalist, author and public speaker. His unique perspective and engaging writing style have made him a prominent sociology and popular culture voice. He has five New York Times bestsellers — The Tipping Point, Blink, Outliers, What the Dog Saw, and David and Goliath. In addition to his best-selling books, Malcolm co-founded Pushkin Industries and hosted the hit podcast Revisionist History. Malcolm shares his journey and offers many insights and lessons on what it takes to stand for and stand out in today's world. I then bring back an interview with Alan Depencier, CMO from RBC, which is even more relevant today. Malcolm Gladwell is part of a series titled Legends Journey: Lessons in Leadership, which I am co-producing with the Toronto Chapter of the American Marketing Association. We celebrate the journeys of those who have been inducted into Canada's Marketing Hall of Legends. In my CTM library or the AMA's YouTube Channel, you can find our interviews with Joe Mimran, Angus Reid, Jeanne Beker, Miles Nadal, Arlene Dickinson, and Frank Palmer.

This week's episode features Nick Taylor, who captivated the golf world and all of Canada with his thrilling 72-foot playoff eagle putt, making him the first Canadian in 69 years to win the RBC Canadian Open. Nick takes us on a journey from his childhood dreams of being a professional golfer to being ranked the top amateur in the world. Nick then shares his experiences on the PGA Tour before reflecting on the exhilarating moments of that day when it all came together. Mark Zecchino, from the PGA Tour Golf and one of the world's great golf commentators, shares his firsthand experience of witnessing Nick's incredible performance. We include Mark's call on Nick's historic putt, which was heard around the world. Mark Soder, RBC's Director of Brand Marketing, illuminates golf's profound role in Canadian culture and economy and then talks about RBC Community Jr. Golf, an initiative led by RBC in partnership with Golf Canada that is building greater diversity and equity in golf by providing affordable access for youth from equity-deserving communities across Canada. 0:01 Tony Chapman and Nick Taylor. 4:04 Nick Taylor - My Journey 10:36 Nick Taylor - It Takes a Team 15:50 Nick Taylor - Mind Over Matter 22:18 RBC 2023 Canadian Open - History is Made 30:12 - Mark Zecchino talks about RBC, Golf Canada, Nick Taylor's Day 38:45 - Nick Taylor why he was ready to make destiny a matter of choice 52:21 - Nick Taylor describing Day Four and Playoff - Iconic 72-Foot Eagle Playoff Putt 56:00 - Tony’s Three Key Takeaways 58:00 - Mark Soder - Talking about Golf, It's Importance and RBC Community Jr. Golf

This is a true-life Ted Lasso story, taped in front of a live audience at the Canadian Federation of Independent Grocers Conference. I love every word of what Jay DeMerit has to say about life, sports, ego, and leadership. Jay's journey extends beyond athletic supremacy to becoming a role model for youth, an entrepreneur, and a sought-after keynote speaker. Jay DeMerit shares his journey from being overlooked in the MLS Draft to making his way to England and then playing his way to Premier League stardom. Jay also earned a place on America's World Cup Team, playing every minute in the South African World Cup and becoming the Vancouver Whitecaps' Captain. Jay emphasized the significance of perseverance and self-actualization. Discover how DeMerit's unique approach to leadership and focus on holistic development helped shape his career and inspire future generations. Gain insights into the pressures of youth sports and the importance of dreaming big while taking small steps. I close the show talking to Sam Effah, one of the fastest Canadian Sprinters ever, and who today is one of the stewards of RBC's Training Ground, on what it takes to dream and do. To learn about Jay DeMerit's entrepreneurial venture: RiseXShine https://www.risexshine.com To book Jay as a speaker: https://speakerscanada.com To learn more about RBC Training Ground: https://www.rbctrainingground.ca

Frank Palmer is a character of immense character. Frank is a true icon, creative genius, thought leader, visionary and entrepreneur. Frank is being featured as part of The Legends Journey, Lessons in Leadership series. A collaboration between Chatter that Matters and the American Marketing Association's Toronto Chapter. In this series, we interview inductees from Canada's Marketing Hall of Legends. To date, I have chatted with Arlene Dickinson, Joe Mimran, Angus Reid, Miles Nadal, Jeanne Beker and, coming soon, Malcolm Gladwell. In this episode, Frank Palmer shares invaluable insights from his 50-year career. From practical jokes to profound business and brand strategies, Frank's stories encapsulate the essence of a life rich with creativity, daring and extraordinary entrepreneurial prowess. Frank talks about personal integrity in business, the art of maintaining top talent, and the evolution of advertising in the face of emerging technologies like AI. Wherever you are in your career, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and frankness on surviving and thriving in our fast-paced world. 00:00 - Introduction to Frank Palmer 05:20 - Lessons from business and maintaining integrity 15:45 - Strategies for retaining top talent 25:30 - The role of humour: Pranks and workplace culture 35:10 - Overcoming industry challenges and client relationships 45:50 - The impact of COVID-19 on the advertising world 55:15 - Frank Palmer's views on AI in creativity 1:05:00 - Reflections on mentorship and the future of advertising 1:15:00 - Closing thoughts and Frank's offer to chat again

Sometimes, the most gripping tales are not those of fiction. They're not from a bookshelf or a TV screen. They're real-life stories that unfold around us. Stories that remind us of the power of the human spirit. Today on Chatter That Matters, we share the indomitable spirit of Stacey Curtis, who survived a plane crash, cancer that roared through her body and where she was given only a few years to live. I wish I could bottle Stacey's outlook on life and her positivity. Here are two quotes from the show. The first was about the plane crash and what it was like to be one of the survivors, alongside her partner Marissa and her dog Emma. "In that moment, everything changed, yet we found the strength we never knew we had," The second quote after discussing losing her brother and dealing with horrific cancer. "Despite everything, I've found reasons to laugh and live fully every single day," To add important context to why some refuse to surrender, I invited Amy Deacon, the founder and CEO of Toronto Wellness Counselling, to return to the show. I also ask her about those who have near death experiences, change their approach, even appreciation for life.

Did you ever dream of building something with your best friend? Discover the inspiring story of April Brown and Sarah Sklash, who quit their jobs and purchased a roadside motel in Prince Edward County. With hard work, dedication, and little experience, they transformed the dingy motel into a beautiful space reflecting life's sunshine and simple pleasures. Their entrepreneurial adventures caught the attention of Netflix, which produced Motel Makeover, a show about their next motel venture in Sauble Beach. Today, The June Motel boasts three locations, including their latest project, the June in Beaver Valley, a cosy 8 room outpost, nestled in nature. This story is about following your heart and taking risks, believing in yourself and your vision, and on your terms. Join us as we learn how "The June" came to be, the inspiration behind its iconic pink doors, and why chasing dreams matters. I am thrilled to introduce a new sponsor for Chatter that Matters. Mark Rolnick, EVP, Head of GreenShield Administration, then joins the show to talk about why small businesses matter and why they have launched GreenShield for Small Business to help small business owners promote employee well-being. A flexible benefit solution makes it easier to attract top talent so that small business owners spend more time doing what they do best - building a healthy business. To book a stay at the June Motel. https://thejunemotel.com To find out more about GreenShield for Small Business. Greenshield.ca/chatterthatmatters

Today, I welcome Jeanne Beker, a global icon and an inductee into the Marketing Hall of Legends. Jeanne is also a dear friend and a trailblazer who has found success as a world-renowned fashion journalist, entrepreneur, author, keynote speaker, and, above all, a wonderful mom. At age 72, Jeanne continues to fashion her destiny with passion, creativity and talent. In this candid 'chat to me about anything' session, Jeanne shares many beautiful stories, life lessons we can all benefit from, and how, instead of burying the news she had breast cancer, she used her platform to raise awareness and to help raise much-needed funds to tackle the disease. Here is to the one and only Jeanne Beker. To pre-order Jeanne's new book, Heart on My Sleeve. https://www.jeannebeker.com The Leader's Journey: Lessons in Leadership is a collaboration between Chatter that Matters and the American Marketing Association Toronto Chapter. I interviewed legends who had been inducted into the Marketing Hall of Legends. A big shout out to Miles Nadal for making all this possible. To find out more about the Marketing Hall of Legends, https://ama-toronto.com/awards/legends-journey/

This will define our country in the future: dreamers and doers who are taking on our most significant problems and then exporting their ideas and technology around the world. For my Earths Day Show, I chatted with Phil De Luna. At age 32, he is among the most brilliant people I have ever interviewed. Phil has a great personality, radiates passion, and has a powerful connection to the human race. Phil makes me feel optimistic about science's role in battling climate change. I know you will enjoy his story, which also reflects the tapestry of Canada. A family of newcomers who came to Canada to improve their circumstances and a son who honours their sacrifice by making a positive dent in one of humanity's biggest problems. Phil offers his five-step plan for saving our planet. He also discusses the carbon tax and offers ideas for better serving our planet and the Canadian economy. I also included an interview with John Stackhouse, SVP of RBC. John is a nationally bestselling author and one of Canada's leading voices on innovation and economic disruption. He talks about the RBC Climate Action Institute. To learn more about Phil De Luna's company, Deep Sky: https://www.deepskyclimate.com To learn more about the RBC Climate Action Institute: https://www.rbc.com/climate-action-institute/index.html

'I’m not making records; I’m making history. Today, my man Tony and I made history with this interview." Maestro Fresh Wes. Maestro Fresh We is credited as the "Godfather of Canadian Hip Hop, " his debut album, Symphony in Effect, was a certified platinum album. In 2023, Maestro Fresh Wes became the first hip-hop artist inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. His song Let Your Backbone Slide" is the first rap song inducted into the Canadian Songwriters' Hall of Fame. What did Drake have to say about Maestro Fresh Wes and his influence on him and Canadian music? What advice did Chuck D of Public Enemy offer? You'll have to listen to find out. ‘Fresh’ is part of Wes Williams' stage name, and Fresh is how I would describe his perspective and attitude. This story has so many beats. You will take away so much from how Wes approaches life and career. I consider this essential listening for young people as they must diversify and stay relevant throughout their careers. Stay tuned to the show's end when Mark Beckles, the Vice President of Social Impact and Innovation, returns to Chatter that Matters to discuss First Up by RBC X Music and RBC Future Launch. This is a testament to the role organizations can play in helping Canadian youth find and pursue their path in life. To connect with Maestro Fresh Wes: http://maestrofreshwes.net First Up with RBCX Music: https://www.rbc.com/dms/enterprise/music/first-up.html RBC Future Launch: https://www.rbc.com/en/future-launch/

On my watch, we went from slides to video, from film to digital, a handful of channels to thousands, tens of millions of websites, analog to wireless, and a stolen milk carton container for our albums to three million songs in my pocket.The most critical change was that humans went from being captive consumers of content to nomadic, with an appetite to create, validate, and yield power. And tomorrow, on my watch - AI. I am working with three different programs and am mesmerized by how they can expand my creative capacity. These three lessons guided me through so much change, and each time made me a better marketer, successful at winning business, gave me the confidence to take risks as an entrepreneur, and, I hope, a better leader and person. These lessons are universal and easy to learn and apply. They will allow you to harness AI to your advantage versus being crushed in the coming wake. If you have six minutes, you can hear them here. If you like them, share them with others. They will make us a better human race by focusing on what matters most to the people who matter most to you. Pura Vida

"I moved 17 times in my first 18 years, faced abuse and adversity, but it fueled my drive to prove others wrong and achieve success against all odds." Shane Howard is an extraordinary storyteller who shares his inspirational and transformative journey, overcoming a tumultuous upbringing to becoming a mentor and global connector. Shane is a testament to the resilience and drive that can emerge from the "School of Hard Knocks." Shane's insights offer hope and inspiration to those grappling with their place in this world, or choosing not to toe societies perceived perfect line. To find out more about RBC’s Future Launch: https://www.rbc.com/en/future-launch/

Healing is Believing. I have been sharing inspiring human journeys for four years, but none like Tracy L Clark. For most of her life, Tracy has dealt with trauma. Debilitating illnesses, several near-death experiences, being kidnapped at gunpoint, an abusive relationship and then being a single mom caring for her children when illness once again threatened her life. Listen to the first few minutes of the episode; it is riveting. Tracy reads from her book, God, Where Are You, It's Me. After hearing what she has to say about the life she had to endure, you will understand the title. What flows from there is a stream of positivity and possibility that will light up your day, even your path in life. Like a phoenix rising from its ashes, Tracy transformed her life, fighting against medical diagnoses and insurance companies refusing treatment. Tracy chose not to heal but to survive and thrive. This choice shaped Tracy's character today—resilient, strong, and fiercely determined. From her trauma came transformation, transcendence, and, with every heartbeat, an opportunity for her to reclaim her health and her rebirth as an entrepreneur and now a healer. Tracy has been featured on ABC, FOX, NBC, and CBS. Her work is so profound and efficacious that the International Association of Top Professionals (IAOTP) crowned her the Top Energy Healer of the Year in 2024. Shelagh McGrogan, the Director of Content for RBC, first offers her thoughts on Tracy's journey and then answers my question about the difference between branding a person, versus a product or service. To connect with Tracy: https://www.tracylclark.com/

I occasionally break the format and post a Chatter That Matters podcast on a Monday about something important to all of us. The goal is to challenge the status quo with innovative ideas to improve our lives and livelihoods. In today's episode, I want to discuss the growing unaffordability crisis and the problems that manifest when individuals and many others do not have enough. They cannot afford necessities—food, shelter, and transportation. If this continues, it will undermine much of what we know and value in society. Our elected officials must prioritize affordability, but there are vastly opposing views on how to do so. In this four-minute podcast, I'll share my thoughts on the issue, ask you four essential questions to consider, and then offer my recommendation. If you agree, could you share so that our whispers can become a roar?