Mckayla Paranych is a devoted single mom, resilient spirit, and woman of faith who is finding strength in life’s struggles. In a world that often feels chaotic and overwhelming, Mckayla shares how she carves out moments of peace, joy, and growth through nature, movement, and a deepening connection to her faith. Her story is one of transformation, courage, and choosing hope even when it felt impossible.

Getting Outside

For Mckayla, being outside isn’t just about fresh air—it’s a lifeline. As a single mom, she finds clarity and peace in nature’s stillness. Whether it’s hiking in the mountains when life feels heavy or taking her son to the park for free play, the outdoors gives her room to breathe and reset. She shares that even when she’s drained, being outside—even for a picnic or a moment in the backyard—is essential for her mental health. With her energetic dog and curious son, outdoor time becomes a built-in source of therapy, joy, and balance.

Movement

Physical movement is another pillar in Mckayla’s life—one that builds her confidence and serves as a reminder of her strength. From the challenges of running to the simple act of staying active, movement helps her cope with stress and affirm her worth. Her relationship with her body has shifted dramatically since becoming a mother, moving from disordered eating to treating her body with love and care for both her and her son. Her advice to other single moms: start small, stay consistent, and know that movement doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be yours.

Faith

Mckayla’s faith journey is deeply personal and powerful. From suicidal thoughts and shame to overwhelming gratitude and trust, she opens up about how God met her in her darkest moment—during an unexpected pregnancy—and began to rebuild her from the inside out. Though she once questioned her faith and turned away, becoming a mom was a turning point that reminded her of God’s unconditional love. Now, daily spiritual practices like prayer, scripture, podcasts, and community support keep her grounded when life gets hard, reminding her she’s never alone.

Mckayla’s story is a reminder that healing and strength often come from the simplest things—getting outside, moving your body, and leaning into your faith. Her journey as a single mother, once marked by pain and uncertainty, is now filled with intention, resilience, and love. Whether you're a mom, a believer, or just someone trying to find your way, Mckayla’s wisdom offers hope: no matter how low you feel, there is always a way to rise.

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1. What's the meaning of life?

2. What's one moment in your life that changed you forever?

3. Do you believe everything happens for a reason?

Kayleigh Staigh is a Ukrainian dancer, dedicated childcare worker, and resilient individual living with chronic illness. Her story is one of culture, strength, and support. From the joy of traditional Ukrainian dance to the invisible battles of chronic health conditions, Kayleigh has navigated life with a unique blend of grace and grit. In this conversation, we’ll explore the deep roots of cultural identity, the realities of physical and mental health, and the importance of having a strong support system through it all.

For Kayleigh, Ukrainian dance has been more than performance—it’s been a lifelong connection to her heritage and a source of strength and belonging. From the age of four, guided by renowned choreographer Zhenia Bahri, she immersed herself in a community that celebrated resilience, commitment, and joy. Dance allowed her to feel part of a larger story—one of regional diversity and shared cultural pride. Even after having to step away due to illness, Kayleigh found other ways to stay connected, like learning traditional recipes and studying the Ukrainian language. Though the pause in her dance career was heartbreaking—especially after reaching the ensemble level—her creativity and cultural roots continue to guide her healing.

Kayleigh’s journey through chronic illness has been long and filled with frustration, misdiagnoses, and the pain of not being believed. Yet throughout it all, she remained grounded thanks to the unwavering belief of her parents and the quiet presence of close friends who supported her without needing explanations. She sheds light on the often-misunderstood reality of invisible illnesses, where a person can appear fine while enduring immense internal battles. On difficult days, Kayleigh practices self-compassion—recognizing the strength it takes just to get through—and reminding herself that resting is not weakness, but a vital act of care. Her story encourages others to listen more deeply and offer support without assumptions.

Support, for Kayleigh, is about consistency, understanding, and presence—especially when life becomes inconvenient. Chronic illness has shown her who truly shows up: friends, family, her boyfriend, and compassionate professionals who make space for her needs without judgment. Whether it’s a doctor who believes her, a friend who continues to invite her out even if she can’t come, or a biology teacher who extended kindness and flexibility, these gestures leave lasting impacts. Kayleigh emphasizes that maintaining relationships with limited energy is a two-way effort, and open communication makes all the difference. Real support, she reminds us, isn’t about fixing—it’s about staying.

Kayleigh Staigh’s story is a powerful reminder that behind every smile or “I’m fine” could be someone carrying far more than we realize. Her experiences weave together culture, health, and human connection into a narrative of perseverance and depth. Whether through the rhythm of dance, the quiet strength of self-compassion, or the care of a supportive community, Kayleigh’s journey inspires us to honor our roots, believe in unseen struggles, and never underestimate the impact of simply showing up.

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Caden Skelton is a misunderstood soul whose life has been shaped by pain, perseverance, and purpose. Having battled suicidal thoughts since childhood and been constantly misunderstood by society, Caden has turned his struggle into strength. Now a local icon in Sherwood Park, he’s known for dancing with a helmet on—a symbol of both protection and identity. Through this unique and expressive art form, Caden brings light to others, especially children and strangers who find joy, hope, and even healing through his presence. Today, we dive deeper into his journey and explore how dancing, mental health, and skateboarding have become pillars of his identity and resilience.

For Caden, dancing isn’t just movement—it’s an extension of his soul. What began on a longboard after a head injury evolved into a public act of freedom, defiance, and self-expression. The helmet he wears isn't just a safety measure; it’s a statement—a marker of who he is and what he represents. Each performance is layered with emotion: a fight against stigma, a message to his younger self, and an open invitation for others to embrace their individuality. Despite facing hostility, Caden continues to dance for the smiles of children and the lives he's touched, including those he's unknowingly pulled back from the edge of despair. His dance is not for applause—it’s for connection, survival, and purpose.

Caden's mental health journey is deeply personal and painfully real. Having attempted suicide as early as grade 3, his strength today is built on the wisdom of his grandfather and a relentless refusal to give up. Being in the public eye while battling his own inner storms isn’t easy, but Caden copes by staying true to himself, setting firm boundaries, and supporting those who share his values. He challenges society to look deeper—to understand that people carry unseen pain, layered beneath diagnoses and misunderstandings. He advocates for compassion and awareness, reminding us all that beneath the surface, there is always more to a person than what we see.

To Caden, skateboarding—especially longboarding—is liberation. It’s his form of flight, a break from the gravity of life's burdens. It brings peace, focus, and a sense of control that helps him combat anger, anxiety, and depression. More than a hobby, it’s been a tool for self-growth and a way to build genuine human connection. From teaching others to ride to advocating for a community skate space in Sherwood Park, Caden uses skateboarding not only as personal therapy but as a force for building bridges. For him, every fall is a lesson, and every ride is a reminder to keep moving forward.

Caden Skelton’s story is one of raw humanity, courage, and transformation. From dancing with a helmet to skating through emotional chaos, he has turned his pain into purpose and his struggles into service. Whether through movement, conversation, or community-building, Caden is a living testament that being different isn’t a weakness—it’s a gift. His life reminds us that behind every outlier is a powerful story worth hearing, and behind every act of self-expression lies a truth that could save a life.

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We hit the streets at the Alberta Legislature in Edmonton to find out how everyday Edmontonians really feel about the current state of Canada. From heartfelt pride to honest concerns, we asked candid questions and got real, unfiltered answers.

Join us for a mix of surprising takes, wise reflections, and raw patriotism as we gauge the pulse of the people. This is not just another Canada Day video—it's a window into the minds of Canadians today.

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Dr. Yvonne Wong is a Psychology Professor at the University of Alberta with a rich academic background in Behavioural Neuroscience, having completed her Ph.D. at Western University and her M.Sc. at the Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience. Despite graduating into the uncertainty of the 2008 recession, she carved out her niche in education—a field she’s always considered a safe haven. Living with both autism and ADHD (AuDHD), Dr. Wong has navigated significant mental health challenges throughout her life, and now uses that lived experience to better connect with and advocate for her students. She’s not just a teacher of psychology—she lives it, breathes it, and continues to grow with it. Whether she’s lecturing on neuropsychology, serving on union council, or engaging in aerial arts and crochet to nourish her well-being, Dr. Wong embodies what it means to be both intellectually rigorous and deeply human. Please welcome, Dr. Yvonne Wong.

As a professor who has taught through different academic eras—before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic—Dr. Wong has observed a significant shift in how mental health is perceived and addressed within university settings. She notes that while past generations, particularly within certain cultural contexts, experienced stigma and shame around discussing mental illness, today's university environments are becoming more supportive and inclusive. Institutions like the University of Alberta now provide resources and accommodations for students. Dr. Wong emphasizes the importance of reducing stigma, both by recognizing that conditions like anxiety and depression are not character flaws but treatable illnesses, and by modeling openness and empathy in the classroom. Drawing from personal and family experiences, she shares how mental health tools—whether it’s medication, therapy, or mindful lifestyle choices—have improved her life and relationships. Her holistic view reminds us that while accommodations matter, it’s also essential to use them as a springboard to grow, contribute, and perform—proving that people with mental health struggles still have immense value to offer.

References

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Gonzalez, O., & Frazier, T. W. (2020). Intellectual functioning and its relationship to anxiety in children with and without autism spectrum disorder. Autism, 24(1), 52–62. https://doi.org/10.1177/1362361320953253

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Zimbardo, P. (2008, February). The psychology of evil [Video]. TED Conferences. https://www.ted.com/talks/philip_zimbardo_the_psychology_of_evil

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Alexa Wall, the Holistic Babe — a certified holistic nutrition consultant and devoted follower of Jesus who blends faith, wellness, and simplicity into every part of her lifestyle. Through her content and coaching, she helps people navigate the noisy world of health advice with grounded, spiritually rooted wisdom. Alexa believes that true health isn’t about perfection, but about living with purpose — aligning your habits with your values and showing up as your best self for God, for others, and for your own well-being.

Alexa’s faith is the foundation of everything she does, including how she approaches health and nutrition. She reminds us that while wellness can easily become self-centered, faith calls us to shift our focus outward — asking how we can better serve others and honor God with our choices. She filters everything through a simple lens: “Did God make this?” and if the answer is no, she doesn’t want it in her body. Whether it’s giving up things she depends on like sugar or caffeine, or taking time throughout the day to pray — even while doing everyday things like driving or washing dishes — Alexa prioritizes spiritual grounding over worldly perfection.

To Alexa, living a healthy lifestyle goes far beyond food and exercise. It’s about managing stress, staying honest about your motivations, and building habits that are both meaningful and sustainable. She emphasizes starting small — not with a complete overhaul, but with simple swaps and slow changes. Health, in her eyes, is not about becoming obsessed with routines but about tuning into your body, embracing flexibility, and knowing when to rest. Her 80/20 approach allows room for grace, especially when life gets hectic or hormones are at play — particularly important advice for women navigating their unique rhythms.

With so much contradictory information out there, Alexa’s approach to nutrition is refreshingly simple: stick to whole foods and avoid processed ingredients. She helps clients find what works for them instead of prescribing one-size-fits-all plans. For busy individuals, she recommends prepping versatile ingredients like chicken or veggies that can be repurposed throughout the week, and emphasizes that meal prep doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s all about mindset — choosing to invest in “future you,” using shortcuts like frozen pre-chopped produce, and giving yourself permission to make things easier without guilt.

Alexa’s message is clear: true health is a holistic, grace-filled journey that honors both the body and the spirit. By anchoring her lifestyle in faith, simplifying her routines, and staying present to her purpose, she shows us that wellness doesn’t have to be overwhelming. It can be joyful, intentional, and deeply personal — a way to live in alignment with both God and the rhythms of everyday life.

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Ireland Parsons returns with a heart full of stories, lessons, and dreams after spending a transformative year abroad. Her time immersed in different cultures has not only reshaped her worldview but also helped her navigate personal growth in ways she never expected. Now preparing for an exciting move to Italy to pursue her passion for fashion, Ireland joins us today to reflect on her journey—how traveling alone challenged her, what she learned about relationships and comparison in her 20s, and the evolving mindset that is guiding her into adulthood.

Traveling abroad opened Ireland’s eyes to the diversity of life’s rhythms—from the vibrant, sometimes overwhelming streets of Athens to the poised quiet of Austria. Navigating these contrasts brought moments of awe, but also challenges like safety concerns and loneliness. Yet through it all, Ireland discovered resilience and strength she didn’t know she had. Confronting her anxiety and pushing herself out of her comfort zone, she found confidence through connection, meaningful friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the comforts and relationships she had taken for granted back home. Her love for Italy, sparked by a teenage visit, now calls her back—not just as a tourist but as a student of fashion, ready to absorb its artistry and elegance where it lives and breathes.

Being away from home taught Ireland hard but valuable lessons about who truly shows up when distance is involved. While time zones and busy lives sometimes strained communication, it became clear which connections were rooted in love and mutual care. Simultaneously, she has faced the quiet struggle of comparison—seeing peers move through traditional milestones while she took a different path. Through conscious mental reframing and the wisdom of thinkers like Mel Robbins, Ireland began to understand that everyone’s path is uniquely timed. Comparison became a tool for empathy rather than self-judgment, and she’s learned to build relationships that are authentic, mutually fulfilling, and supportive of personal growth during this unpredictable phase of life.

Ireland’s twenties have brought a conscious shift in how she views herself and the world. No longer seeing struggles as setbacks, she now embraces them as essential parts of the story that shape her. This growth mindset has helped her let go of people and situations that no longer align, and embrace gratitude even in uncertainty. Daily affirmations, being present, and reminding herself that “everything happens for a reason” help her stay grounded. More than anything, she has begun defining happiness on her own terms—choosing joy, solitude, self-investment, and connection over societal expectations. She now sees her life as a gift, one she gets to shape moment by moment.

Ireland’s journey reminds us that stepping away from the familiar can often lead us back to who we truly are. Through travel, relationships, and a constantly evolving mindset, she’s finding her way—not by following a map, but by trusting the process and staying curious about the road ahead. As she prepares for her next chapter in Italy, she carries with her not only dreams of fashion but the confidence of someone who has learned how to build a life that feels like her own.

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