What happens when you suddenly become the "sole architect" of your space? Simonne knows. In this episode, she gets vulnerable and shares the honest reality of living alone for the first time. Did we mention it’s an ocean away?
We’re diving deep into her personal journey, navigating "the independence curve" and the unexpected lessons she learned as she figured out how to manage her entire world solo.

We’re leaving the “have a bubble bath” clichés of self-care behind in favour of an honest look at the importance of mental clarity through intentional routines, task anagement, and good planning, creating the foundation for true well-being that enables sustained independence.

Quote of the Week:

"Daily routines have become my favourite self-care practice." Simonne McVanel

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

Do you practice self-care in your routine? 0:00

Navigating Independence: A New Chapter 1:00

The Importance of Organization and Self-Care 3:00

Completing Tasks for Mental Clarity 6:00

Daily Care: A Path to Easier Living 9:00

See you next time 12:54

We dive deep into how tiny, seemingly insignificant everyday decisions can help us live with empowered independence. Simonne walks us through her recently curated how-tos of organization, connecting the dots between tackling small tasks and crushing daily decision fatigue. Living on her own with no roommate, an ocean away, provided a crash course where crashing and burning wasn’t an option. So, in this episode, the strategies we discuss aren’t just theory. They are reframing daily care as a fundamental form of self-respect. We look at simple habits, like prepping for tomorrow tonight to banish that frantic morning chaos, and how they fundamentally shift your energy.

You'll get clear, practical steps for setting up routines that truly streamline your day, making your independent life less stressful and much more intentional. As you know, in our intergenerational podcast, we compare and contrast our lived experiences, and in this episode, we’re figuring out how to best unlock the often-overlooked power of completing tasks for mental clarity and how it leads to a smoother, more productive, and calmer life.

Did you like this episode?
Then you’ll probably also like this one, “Is Your Self-Care Non-Negotiable?”

Consider reflecting on your own self-care practices or sharing your experiences with us to build a supportive community around personal growth and independence.

Greatness Together Podcast Links:

Do you show yourself love?

Do you need Mental Beauty?

Greatness Magnified

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Get ready to be inspired by Simonne’s incredible journey as an international student in Finland, a place where happiness isn’t just a buzzword—it’s woven into the very fabric of society! We’re diving into the heart of Finnish culture, where a simple "hello" has its own regional flair and even the bus drivers share a friendly wave, reminding us that everyone’s contribution is deeply valued. From a work culture rooted in true equality to a lifestyle that honours movement through biking, walking, and the sacred "Right to Roam" in nature, there is so much we can learn about putting people first. Simonne highlights how accessible resources and a deep respect for the environment create a life of balance, proving that when we step into a new culture, we don’t just learn about them, we gain a profound sense of gratitude and a fresh perspective on our own lives.

Quote of the Week: Equality is such a deep social norm in Finland that you see it everywhere you look. Simonne McVanel

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

00:00 What makes Finland so happy?

01:00 Introduction and Finnish Greetings

06:01 Work Culture and Equality in Finland

11:45 Social Norms and Community Connection

18:07 Health and Lifestyle in Finland

23:58 Nature and Accessibility in Finnish Society

30:00 Reflections on Cultural Differences

33:50 See you next time

Join Sarah and Simonne to hear them talk about how:

In this heart-centred conversation, Simonne and Sarah dive deep into the beautiful cultural tapestry of Finland, from the way the Finns greet one another to the secret sauce behind their world-renowned societal happiness. Simonne, living and going to school in Finland this semester, shares interesting observations she’s had and how, upon investigation, inquiry, and her courses on Finnish society, she's learned about the deep social norms that form the foundation for happiness.

In their conversational, informal way, Simonne and Sarah explore a variety of aspects of Finnish life, from seamless transportation to greetings to a nature-friendly lifestyle to a work culture, and how all of these and more illuminate the widespread values of respect that elevate shared humanity.

Simonne gets real about what she wants to bring back with her to North America, and what is uniquely Nordic and why.

If you’re curious about what makes some countries deeply happy and others with as much wealth yet are less so, you will love this episode.

Did you like this episode? Then you’ll probably also like this one that asks the question… Should All Young People Travel?

Greatness Together Podcast Links:

Could Discomfort be Your Biggest Teacher?

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In this engaging conversation, Sarah and Simonne invite a special guest, Salima Jadavji, to share and explore her concept of 'mental beauty,' emphasizing the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

They discuss cultural differences in attitudes towards self-care, the generational shift in perspectives on work and mental health, and the significance of language in shaping our understanding of these concepts. If you are curious about how to cultivate more compassion and acceptance, and how to create safe spaces for open conversations about mental health, you will love this episode.

Quote of the Week: “Mental beauty isn’t about becoming a better version of yourself. It’s about embracing wholeness.” Salima Jadavji

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

0:00 Do you need mental beauty?

01:48 Understanding Mental Beauty

05:28 Cultural Context and Mental Beauty

10:06 Generational Perspectives on Mental Health

15:34 The Shift Towards Self-Compassion

19:56 Creating Safe Spaces for Conversations

24:08 Integrating Mind, Body, and Emotions

30:25 Redefining Work and Self-Care

35:30 The Importance of Language in Mental Beauty

40:13 Key Takeaways and Reflections

47:47 See you next time

Join Sarah, Simonne & Salima to hear them talk about how:

Mental beauty is an invitation to explore one's inner world with curiosity and compassion, and to realize how aligned and intertwined it is with our physical, spiritual, and a more ‘whole-self’ perspective. Like most conversations, Sarah and Simonne are curious about the generational component and build on past episodes that show how intergenerational integration is possible through embracing mental beauty. With Simonne still studying overseas, currently in Finland, of course, the conversation with Salima naturally navigated to cultural differences and similarities in how mental beauty is perceived and practiced, too.

If you are curious about a fresh perspective on how mental beauty offers an enlightened view of well-being, self-care, and mental health, and how it provides a guilt-free lens for living a fulfilling life, you will love this episode.

If you would like to learn about this live and in person with Salima and Sarah, join them at Salima’s inaugural “Dare To Re-Treat” event on May 31, 2026, just outside Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Did you like this episode? Then you’ll likely also like this one, which asks the question… Is Your Self-Care Non-Negotiable?

Listen to learn how integrating your mind, body, and emotions leads to holistic well-being.

Greatness Together Podcast Links:

Do You Show Yourself Love?

Greatness Magnified
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This episode comes with a warning: listening to it will lead to cravings for travel and culture. Get ready to start saving!

Quote: "I went to a Rotary Camp where a bunch of people who were doing their exchange all came together with their partners. I met so many people through that and I now have a house in so many countries. " Simonne McVanel

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

• Should all young people travel? 0:00
• Where in the world is Simonne? 1:00
• Leaving home at 16… 5:00
• Learning to travel alone. 11:00
• Getting out of your comfort zone. 18:00
• Making friends all around the world. 22:00
• Experiences abroad. 26:30
• The value of travelling young. 30:00
• Next time: How to Attract Friends. 40:45

Coming to you from 15,000km away, with Sarah in Canada and Simonne in Australia, they dive into the value of travel while Simonne is on a work term in beautiful Byron Bay, Australia.

Let's turn the show notes over to Simonne:

Join us as we explore the many benefits of travel through my eyes. Over the last few years, I have independently traveled to three countries on three different continents. Travel has allowed me to gain perspective on things like world issues, independence, and saving money.

I have made so many new friends, and don't we all need more friends? It is much easier to spark new friendships while travelling, and now I have global connections (we will dive into this more next episode). Travelling often revolves around lots of socializing, which I experienced in a big way when I went on my first student exchange when I was 16 in Argentina in 2021; I left being a more introverted, shy girl to a talkative, confident and expressive woman.

I highly encourage all young people to take any opportunity they have to go on an exchange with open arms and curiosity. Encourage your kids to consider it, and maybe, like my mom, push a little so we get out of our comfort zone and quickly gain a lot of maturity.

Whether you're a student or not, this episode is for you; it's a reminder that travelling allows you to see your circumstances with new eyes, consider different views, deepen wisdom and fuel your thirst for understanding. It's incredible how a flight across an ocean can open doors you never knew existed and improve your way of living; you probably don't even need to go that far to experience this benefit.

Take a step out of your comfort zone and travel somewhere totally new; learn about culture, traditions, languages, and more from people there. I have never regretted anything to do with travel, even being a bit broke (which I definitely am now…learn all about my adventures in this episode)!

I hope you enjoy this special episode of our podcast, where we give you a window into our lives and philosophy.

Links:

Rotary International: https://www.rotary.org/en
Student Exchange: https://www.rotary.org/en/our-programs/youth-exchanges
Duolingo: https://www.duolingo.com/
Greatness Magnified: https://greatnessmagnified.com/
Subscribe to The Greatness Together Podcast: https://greatnessmagnified.activehosted.com/f/82

Can we just take a minute to celebrate that this is our 50th podcast?

In the 50th episode of the Greatness Together podcast, Sarah and her husband Mark discuss the secrets to a joyful marriage, sharing insights on humour, teamwork, communication, and the importance of maintaining a healthy relationship - with themselves and each other. They reflect on their experiences as parents and partners, emphasizing the need for open dialogue and shared responsibilities. With a lot of wacky and a bit of wisdom, they highlight the significance of self-love and understanding in fostering a strong bond. Their marriage is not perfect, they're quick to point out, but that's actually what they feel all the more proud of.

Quote of the Week: "We work well as a team, and it cannot be lopsided; it has to be 50/50. And you have to give it your all…all the time" Mark McVanel

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

• Can Communication Help Build a Stronger Marriage? 0:00
• The Secrets of Marriage Podcast Recap: 2:00
• Humour in Marriage and Parenting: 5:00
• The Importance of Teamwork in Marriage: 10:00
• Practices for Maintaining a Healthy Marriage: 15:00
• Communication and Planning in Relationships: 20:00
• What We Love About Each Other: 25:00
• See you next time: 34:22

Join Sarah & Mark to hear them talk about how:

Teamwork is essential for a successful relationship, and that humour is a must-have in marriage and parenting. They discuss how open communication helps resolve conflicts and that practicing self-love is crucial to loving others.

They remind us that regular check-ins can strengthen relationships and that shared responsibilities create balance in marriage. They talk about how it's okay to fight and reveal their favourite book about this - "The Principles Secrets for Making Marriage Work" - because healthy conflict is a sign of a sustainable marriage. Add in a little laughter to diffuse tense situations, and decades can fly by, still best friends as well as spouses.

Did you like this episode? Then you'll probably also like this one, from the last time Mark was a guest: "How Do You Make a Marriage Last?"

Sarah & Mark together are sweet, poignant and funny! This is definitely one you won't want to miss!

Greatness Together Podcast Links:

Growing Together Without Losing Yourself
Greatness Magnified
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In this heart-to-heart chat, Simonne and Sarah dive deep into the fascinating (and sometimes frustrating!) cultural cadence of how we do life. We're talking about the huge gap between the non-stop, hustle-hard North American pace and the soul-soothing, savour-the-moment Mediterranean flow.

They're peeling back the layers on the true cost of speed, specifically how that relentless 'go-go-go' stress taxes our health, our joy, and our sustainable well-being. It's not just about getting things done; it's about whether we're burning out while doing it!

Quote of the Week:

"Pace is something you choose. That means you can slow it down." Simonne McVanel

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

• 00:00 Cultural Differences in Lifestyle and Pace
• 04:57 Pros and Cons of Fast vs. Slow Living
• 10:00 The Impact of Lifestyle on Health
• 15:18 Mindfulness and Slowing Down
• 20:06 Stress and Its Effects on the Body
• 24:36 Strategies for a Slower, Healthier Life
• 29:50 Embracing Gratitude and Intentional Living
• 38.18 See you next time!

This conversation is a powerful invitation to embrace intentionality and presence. It emphasizes the vital need to tap the brakes, bring mindfulness to our daily rituals, and really show up for the moments that matter. They share tangible, recognition-infused strategies for crafting a slower, healthier, and more gratitude-rich life—one where we deliberately choose well-being over the mindless pursuit of efficiency.

It's a rallying cry for making every day count, not by packing more in, but by being present for the blessings that are already there. While studying in Europe in a program filled with students from around the world, Simonne's seeing the cultural influence on pace: our beliefs about goals, schedules, and priorities vary by country, and she's realized that North Americans might have an overly intense, not always fast-paced cadence. As she's tried on different 'paces' for size, she's realizing that slower isn't just better; for her, it's safer, happier, and satisfying.

Did you like this episode? Then you'll probably also like this one on Can SLOWER Help You Unlock a Healthier Life?

Greatness Together Podcast Links:

The Problem with Busy
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On this episode of The Greatness Together Podcast, Sarah & Simonne take a look at the critical role of public speaking across various careers, highlighting that even those who may not think they need it will find it essential in certain roles. It discusses how public speaking skills are necessary for effective communication and leadership, regardless of the profession.

In this dynamic conversation, they dive deep into the critical, non-negotiable role that public speaking plays across all professional domains. Forget those old excuses like, "I'm just an engineer," or "I only work with data." We're here to tell you that the microphone is always on!

Quote of the Week:

"Never underestimate how confident you can be by simply being prepared." Simonne McVanel

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

• How Can I Conquer My Fear of Public Speaking? 0:00
• Why do we fear public speaking? 0:30
• Label yourself with positivity: 3:00
• Ditch the negativity bias. 6:30
• When public speaking might be necessary: 9:00
• The importance of preparation: 11:30
• Mindset and self-perception: 16:00
• Next time: How Can We Slow Down?: 18:16

Join Sarah & Simonne to hear them talk about how:

We explore why everyone—yes, everyone—will encounter a moment where these skills aren't just nice to have, but absolutely essential. Whether you're pitching an idea to your boss, leading a critical team meeting, facilitating a difficult conversation, or stepping up into a genuine leadership role, your ability to communicate clearly, confidently, and compellingly is the difference between being heard and being ignored.

This episode is a powerful reminder that public speaking is, in essence, elevated communication and the foundation of effective leadership. Tune in to discover why mastering this skill is the ultimate way to own your impact and unlock your true professional greatness, no matter your title!

Greatness Together Podcast Links:

EP1: Should we become procrastinators?

EP9: Is it better to be introverted or extroverted?

Greatness Magnified

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On this episode of the Greatness Together Podcast, Sarah is diving headfirst into an acronym that's a total game-changer for your well-being. It's time to talk about the power of going a little SLOWER!

This isn't just a catchy word, friends; it's a luscious roadmap to a healthier, happier you. We're dissecting the six core ingredients you absolutely need to fuel your greatness—and they spell out SLOWER. Massive appreciation to speaker colleague Barry Green for this delicious acronym that will benefit us all for life!

Quote of the Week:

"Sometimes we need to slow down to handle the pace of work and modern life." Sarah McVanel

Greatness Together Podcast Highlights:

• 00:00 Can SLOWER help you unlock a healthier life?
• 01:00 Introduction to SLOWER: A New Perspective
• 02:20 The Importance of Sleep
• 03:42 Laughter: The Essential Ingredient
• 04:11 Oxygen: Breathing Life into Your Day
• 06:01 Hydration: The Power of Water
• 07:57 Exercise: Finding Your Joy in Movement
• 10:17 Real Food: Nourishing Your Body
• 14:14 See you next time…

Join Sarah to hear her talk about how:

I'm peeling back the curtain on my own messy, imperfect journey with these elements—sharing some personal anecdotes and the little, practical tips you can use today to start integrating SLOWER into your daily rhythm.

It's all about making your well-being non-negotiable and finding the sheer, simple joy in prioritizing yourself. Because you can't pour from an empty cup, and your greatness deserves to be full!

Ready to slow down to speed up your health? Let's dive in!

Did you like this episode? You'll probably also like this one on: Is Sleep the Missing Ingredient to Your Greatness?

Greatness Together Podcast Links:

• EP 22: Is Your People Pleasing a Problem?
• EP 45: Could Discomfort Be Your Biggest Teacher?
• Greatness Magnified
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