Episodes

  • From Ashes to Earth: Turning Cremation Into Living Soil | Amanda Kelly

    From Ashes to Earth: Turning Cremation Into Living Soil | Amanda Kelly
    Mar 10 2026
    What if cremation ashes don’t actually help plants grow?

    In fact, they can kill them. In this episode of YouMeWe Amplified, host Suzanne F. Stevens sits down with Amanda Kelly, co-founder of Awake, to explore one of the most surprising innovations in sustainable deathcare: transforming cremation ashes into life-giving soil.

    The idea didn’t start as a business. It started with grief. After unexpectedly becoming the caretaker of multiple urns belonging to loved ones, Amanda began asking questions about cremation, soil, and what really happens when ashes are returned to the earth. What she discovered changed everything.

    Today, Awake’s patented Ashes to Earth process helps families create living memorials—turning cremated remains into balanced soil capable of nurturing trees, gardens, and ecosystems. But this conversation goes far beyond science. It’s about grief, legacy, entrepreneurship, and the courage to build a mission-driven social enterprise in one of the most emotionally sensitive industries. Because sometimes the most powerful contribution we make… is the life we give back to the earth.
    🌱 In this episode, you’ll discover:
    • Why cremation ashes can damage soil and plants
    • The science behind Awake’s Ashes to Earth process
    • How grief sparked a groundbreaking green innovation
    • The rise of sustainable funerals and eco memorials
    • What it takes to build a mission-driven company in deathcare
    • How families are creating living legacies
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    53 mins
  • Beer, Business & Built-In Impact: How Endswell’s Soda Bros Is Changing Community Giving

    Beer, Business & Built-In Impact: How Endswell’s Soda Bros Is Changing Community Giving
    Feb 19 2026
    What if social impact wasn’t added on… but built in? In this episode of YouMeWe Amplified, Suzanne F. Stevens sits down with Dana Kaluzny, co-owner of Endswell Beer in Collingwood, to explore how purpose can live inside the business model — not just the marketing. From launching Soda Bros, a youth-led social enterprise created with her sons (where 50% of profits support local community organizations), to designing a brewery culture rooted in belonging and sustainability, Dana shares what it looks like to lead with intention. In this conversation, we cover: • Baking social impact into your business plan
    • Raising entrepreneurial kids who understand profit and generosity
    • Setting boundaries when impact meets capacity
    • Working with your partner — navigating strengths, tension, and communication
    • Building a flat team culture through ownership and humility This is a conversation about beer, yes —
    but more importantly, about leadership, community, and designing business to “end well.” If you're building something in your town and wondering how it can matter more, this episode is for you. Subscribe for more conversations on conscious leadership and community impact.

    Let’s make waves.

    Watch • Read • Listen https://podcast.youmewe.ca/dana-kaluzny-endswell-beer/
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    44 mins
  • How One Real Estate Career Became a Force for Good

    How One Real Estate Career Became a Force for Good
    Feb 2 2026
    Building Communities and Empowering Women: Marcia Hubbs' Inspiring Journey Join Suzanne F. Stevens on the You Me We Amplified podcast as she speaks with Marcia Hubbs, a trusted real estate professional and community champion with over 40 years of experience. Discover Marcia's unwavering commitment to supporting women and children escaping violence through the Royal LePage Shelter Foundation and her local shelter, My Friend's House. Learn about Marcia's collaborative effort in creating the awareness song 'A Hand Up' and her various community-driven initiatives, including innovative client gifts and youth engagement on her property.

    Explore the significant impact of integrating social purpose into professional life and the profound difference it can make.
    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Host
    00:58 Meet Marcia Hubbs: Real Estate Professional and Community Champion
    02:45 Marcia's Journey into Real Estate
    03:57 Extending Real Estate to Social Impact
    05:18 Personal Connection to Shelter Foundation
    08:25 Innovative Client Gifts for Charity
    11:19 Community Contributions and Personal Stories
    20:10 Queen M and the Power of Music for Social Causes
    26:48 Challenges and Future Goals for Shelters
    28:00 Integrating Community Giving in Real Estate
    28:33 National Campaign for Social Impact
    29:28 Marketing Social Impact for Women Entrepreneurs
    31:39 Community Support and Acts of Kindness
    37:10 Sustaining Energy and Passion
    41:23 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights
    51:02 Final Thoughts and Contact Information
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    53 mins
  • Redefining Youth Education with Real-World Skills | Jessica Flynn, Founder, The You Power Project

    Redefining Youth Education with Real-World Skills | Jessica Flynn, Founder, The You Power Project
    Jan 22 2026
    Empowering the Future: Redefining Youth Education with Real-World Skills | Jessica Flynn



    What if education actually prepared young people to lead, create, and make an impact—starting now?

    In this episode of YouMeWe Amplified, Suzanne F. Stevens sits down with education disruptor Jessica Flynn to challenge what we think school is supposed to look like—and what youth truly need to thrive.

    Jessica is the founder of The Flynn Collaboration, The You Power Project, and the Academy of South Georgian Bay. Her award-winning work sits at the intersection of education, entrepreneurship, mindset, and social impact, empowering young people to learn, lead, and live with purpose.

    In this conversation, Jessica shares her journey from traditional teaching to building bold, future-focused education models that have empowered over a thousand students worldwide to recognize their value, develop real-world skills, and step into leadership with confidence.

    ✨ In this episode, we explore:
    • Why mindset, entrepreneurship, and social impact must be core to modern education
    • How the You Power Project equips youth with agency, confidence, and purpose
    • What inspired the creation of an alternative high school designed for changemakers
    • The critical role of community collaboration in youth development
    • Practical insights for educators, parents, and social impact leaders rethinking education
    This episode is a must-watch for anyone passionate about youth empowerment, alternative education, leadership development, conscious leadership, and creating sustainable social impact. 🎧 Watch, read, or listen to the full interview:

    👉 https://podcast.youmewe.ca/jessica-flynn/ If you believe education should unlock potential—not mute it, this conversation will resonate.
    Let’s make waves 🌊
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    48 mins
  • Are you eating plastics_ The truth about your food—and how to stop it_

    Are you eating plastics_ The truth about your food—and how to stop it_
    Dec 19 2024
    Rethinking 'BPA Free': Nita Tandon on Conscious Consumerism and Sustainable Innovation Join me on YouMeWe Amplified podcast for a deep dive into conscious consumerism and sustainable innovation with my inspiring guest, Nita Tandon, CEO and founder of Dalcini Inc. Discover the truth behind 'BPA Free' labels, the impact of plastics on our health, and how we can demand better for ourselves and our communities. Learn about Nita's journey from a career in health sciences to creating award-winning stainless steel housewares. Get ready to rethink convenience, challenge authority, and make a conscious contribution to society. It's time to make waves for a healthier, sustainable future!
    02:22 The Catalyst for Change: From Plastics to Stainless Steel
    06:10 The Problem with Plastics and the Benefits of Stainless Steel
    08:36 Health Impacts of Chemical Exposure
    13:59 Ensuring Product Purity and Safety
    16:20 Advocacy and Raising Awareness
    17:31 Starting the Business and Educating Families
    19:40 Simplicity and Sustainability in Everyday Life
    21:29 Impact of Food Packaging on the Environment
    23:10 Advantages of Stainless Steel Containers
    27:47 Advocacy for Women in Business 29:14
    The Power of Representation in Media
    30:12 Challenging Traditional Business Paradigms
    31:23 Embracing Conscious Leadership
    31:52 Journey to B Corp Certification
    34:37 Impact of Awards and Media Exposure
    39:19 Navigating Supply Chain Challenges
    41:39 Creating Inclusive Work Environments
    46:51 Rapid Fire Insights
    53:19 Final Words of Wisdom
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    54 mins
  • Sound Waves of Impact: Jennifer Buchanan, founder of JB Music Therapy's Musical Mission

    Sound Waves of Impact: Jennifer Buchanan, founder of JB Music Therapy's Musical Mission
    Oct 31 2024
    Join me, Suzanne F. Stevens, on the YouMeWe Amplified Podcast as we sit down with Jennifer Buchanan, the founder of JB Music Therapy. In this episode, you will uncover the profound impact of music therapy on mental health, emotional well-being, and social connections. Learn about Jennifer's inspiring journey over 33 years, from the early challenges to achieving significant breakthroughs in hospitals, schools, and communities.

    You'll discover practical insights on how music therapy aids in learning for children, supports mental health, and benefits the elderly, particularly those in long-term care. Jennifer also shares her innovative vision for the future, including the creation of a scholarship for music therapy students. Plus, get motivated by her advice on collaboration, entrepreneurial spirit, and making a conscious contribution to society.

    Don't miss this powerful conversation that will empower and inspire you to make a social impact through the healing power of music.

    00:00 Introduction to YouMeWe Amplified Podcast
    00:37 Meet Jennifer Buchanan of JB Music Therapy
    02:01 The Beginnings of JB Music Therapy
    05:04 Music Therapy for Children
    09:05 Music Therapy and Mental Health
    15:13 Music Therapy in Acute Medical Settings
    18:52 Music Therapy for the Elderly
    25:07 Inclusion Through Music Therapy
    29:45 The Power of Music and Memory
    32:01 The Impact of Music Therapy
    33:55 Pioneering a Profession
    35:29 Reflecting on Personal and Professional Growth
    40:21 The Importance of Contribution
    47:14 Rapid Fire Questions
    53:44 Final Thoughts and Words of Wisdom
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    56 mins
  • Dignity and Opportunity: Empowering the ‘Unemployable’ through The Raw Carrot

    Dignity and Opportunity: Empowering the ‘Unemployable’ through The Raw Carrot
    Oct 18 2024
    Welcome to the YouMeWe Amplified Podcast! I'm Suzanne F. Stevens, your host and the Wave•Maker at YouMeWe Social Impact Group. Join me in an inspiring conversation with Rebecca Scherbino, Executive Director of The Raw Carrot, a not-for-profit social enterprise that provides employment and dignity to individuals with disabilities and mental illnesses through the creation of gourmet soups. Rebecca shares how a personal relationship and experiences in the charity sector and Africa shaped her mission. We dive into the challenges and opportunities of creating a supportive work environment, the evolution of The Raw Carrot, and how balancing social outcomes with income generation can lead to sustainability. Tune in for compelling advice on operating like a business, the social franchise model, impact measurement, and leadership in social enterprise. Whether you're a seasoned leader or an aspiring entrepreneur, get ready to be inspired and empowered to make a significant social impact!

    00:00 Introduction to YouMeWe Amplified Podcast
    00:35 Meet Rebecca Scherbino and The Raw Carrot
    01:52 The Catalyst Behind The Raw Carrot
    02:11 Amanda's Story and Early Challenges
    04:33 From Side Hustle to Full-Time Passion
    05:40 The Social Enterprise Model
    09:52 Balancing Social Impact and Sustainability
    12:48 Funding and Financial Strategies
    16:46 Advice for Aspiring Social Entrepreneurs
    19:57 The Social Franchise Advantage
    21:07 Sharing Hard-Earned Knowledge
    22:16 Economies of Scale
    22:37 Challenges and Assumptions
    25:18 Measuring Impact
    27:00 Leadership and Support
    28:44 Advantages of Hiring Unemployable
    30:36 Sustaining Social Impact
    33:21 Rapid Fire Questions
    41:00 Final Words of Wisdom

    🌊 I'm Suzanne F. Stevens, your Wave-Maker at the YouMeWe Social Impact Group, empowering a WE Culture by cultivating conscious leadership. I amplify the voices and impact of sheSocial•IMPACT Leaders through coaching, training, speaking, events, and on the YouMeWe Amplified Podcast. Elevate your leadership, amplify your authentic voice, and accelerate your sustainable social impact with YouMeWe.

    Ready to ride your next leadership wave? 💬 DM me 'YouMeWe' for your free conscious leadership assessment, and let’s unlock your full potential together.
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    42 mins
  • Melissa Kaye - Elev8 Villages - Empowering emancipated foster youth.

    Melissa Kaye - Elev8 Villages - Empowering emancipated foster youth.
    Oct 1 2024
    Empowering Foster Youth: The Vision of Elev8 Villages In this episode of YouMeWe Amplified Podcast, Suzanne F. Stevens interviews Melissa Kay, the founder of Elev8 Villages. Melissa shares her journey from mentoring at-risk youth to creating sustainable tiny home villages for emancipated foster youth. Delve into the systemic challenges faced by foster children and explore the innovative solutions Elev8 Villages offers, including providing safe housing, wraparound services, and empowering job opportunities. Discover how Melissa's unwavering dedication and pragmatic approach aim to transform lives and reshape communities, ensuring that every youth has a voice and a choice.

    00:00 Introduction to YouMeWe Amplified Podcast
    00:50 Meet Melissa Kay: Founder of Elev8 Villages
    01:02 The Foster Care Crisis in the U.S.
    01:45 Melissa's Journey into Foster Care Advocacy
    03:37 Challenges Faced by Foster Youth
    10:12 Elev8 Villages: A Solution for Emancipated Foster Youth
    11:10 Building a Supportive Community
    13:27 The Tiny Home Movement and Its Impact
    17:34 Future Plans and Expansion
    18:16 Funding and Resources for Elev8 Villages
    27:20 A Vision of Clarity 29:08 Building Tiny Homes 30:02 Funding the Dream
    30:38 Coaching and Contributions 32:33 Sustainable Business Models
    34:39 Community and Dignity 36:44 Avoiding Pitfalls 45:20 Rapid Fire Questions
    52:49 Final Words of Wisdom
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    54 mins