What does it take to reinvent yourself—again and again—while remaining grounded in gratitude and generosity? In this inspiring episode recorded in front of a live audience, I sit down with the one and only Canadian icon and my dear friend, Arlene Dickinson, the beloved “matriarch of Dragon’s Den."

We explore the extraordinary journey that shaped her into one of the country’s most respected business leaders and advocates. From overcoming tough odds—being a single mother of four with no post-secondary education—to earning her place in a male-dominated industry, Arlene’s honest reflections on imposter syndrome, self-reliance, and reinvention are both practical and moving.

But this conversation isn’t just about business. We discuss life, media, and breaking stereotypes surrounding age, relationships, and relevance, reminding us all of the power of authenticity, generosity, and not being afraid to stand alone.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or just someone looking for support (not a handout), Arlene’s lessons on curiosity, empathy, and nation-building will stay with you long after the episode ends.

A big thank you to RBC and RBC Wealth for supporting and sharing these stories of positivity and possibility.

I try not to play favourites, but this week’s guest may be the most extraordinary human I’ve ever interviewed. Diane Dupuy is the founder of Famous PEOPLE Players, a Black Light theatre company where the performers are individuals with physical and developmental disabilities. On stage, they become invisible, allowing life-sized puppets to dance, dazzle, and delight the audience. Offstage, they find purpose, dignity, and a chance to be part of something magical.

In this profoundly moving episode, Diane shares how she turned her childhood trauma, learning challenges, and rejection by society into a purpose-driven life. Famous PEOPLE Players is her ever-burning flame of inclusion, artistry, and belief in human potential.

From being discovered by Liberace—who invited the troupe to open for him in Las Vegas—to receiving support from Paul Newman, Senator Ted Kennedy, and even a standing ovation from Phil Collins, Diane’s journey is one of sheer will and unstoppable passion. No funding? She finds a way. Border blocks? She calls the White House. Criticism? She answers with applause.

But today, this company which has changed so many lives is fighting to keep its lights on. With no government funding, they rely solely on ticket sales, donations, and sponsorships.

If this episode moves you—and it will—share it. And if you can, support the show that refuses to stop, because for Diane Dupuy and her PLAYERS, the show must go on.

And please stay to hear what Andrea Barrack, from RBC, has to say about the role that organizations can play in creating a better world.

Visit famouspeopleplayers.com. Help keep the curtain up.

RBC: Purpose Framework: https://www.rbc.com/our-impact/_assets-custom/pdf/esg-report-2023-en-placemat.pdf

What happens when a lifelong dream clashes with a tough new reality? This episode follows the compelling journey of Dapo Bankole, who left everything behind in Nigeria to create a brighter future for his family in Canada.

But what awaited him wasn’t a red carpet—it was a steep climb of survival jobs, diminishing savings, and the gradual loss of self-worth.

Through honest storytelling and deep reflection, Dapo shares how mentorship, microloans, and community support not only rebuilt his life but also inspired him to build bridges for others. His transformation from a struggling newcomer to founder of The Immigrant Life serves as a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we stop wasting talent and start investing in human potential.

Joining the conversation is Andrea Barrack, Senior Vice President of Sustainability and Impact at RBC, who explains why RBC is supporting Windmill Microlending—a groundbreaking organization helping thousands of skilled newcomers reclaim their careers, dignity, and dreams.

A beautiful story of dreaming, doing and doing for others awaits.