Life By Design

Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe
  • 4.9 (41)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Life by Design with Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe. This podcast is a space for real conversations about well-being, resilience, performance, leadership, and everyday life – and how the small choices you make each day shape the quality of your life. Living a big, beautiful life isn’t reserved for a select few; it’s built in the ordinary moments, the routines that ground us, the acts of self-care that restore us, and the intentional decisions that align us with what matters most. Each week, we take big ideas and turn them into practical habits, tools, and practices you can actually use. Those everyday choices are what allow you to be steady, capable, and even extraordinary when life calls on you. If you’re ready to be intentional about how you show up, what you prioritize, and the life you’re building over time, you’re in the right place. Together, we’ll explore what it truly takes to live well and be well by design. We’re so glad you’re here.

  1. The One Thing Holding You Back the Most with Dr. Andy Galpin

    2D AGO

    The One Thing Holding You Back the Most with Dr. Andy Galpin

    On this episode of Life by Design, Dr. Robyne is joined by human performance scientist Dr. Andy Galpin for an insightful and actionable conversation about managing well-being and pursuing health goals, especially when navigating stressful, demanding seasons.  From deciding your priorities ahead of time and identifying your biggest anchor to understanding the power of prioritizing one thing or going all in, Dr. Andy shares practical wisdom and real-world examples to help you focus on what truly moves the needle and confidently let go of what is no longer serving you. They also explore when tools like wearables are helpful versus when they add more noise than value, along with practical advice for parents, coaches, and those supporting young athletes during peak season.  Whether you’re feeling under-resourced, overwhelmed by information, or unsure where to start improving your well-being, this conversation is a reminder that clarity reduces friction, and that doing one thing well, consistently, can create meaningful change over time. Additional Resources:  Dr. Andy’s Podcast – Perform with Dr. Andy Galpin Dr. Andy’s Newsletter – The Catalyst Everything You Want Is on the Other Side of Hard by Ken Rideout The ONE Thing by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan  Connect with Dr. Andy:  Website: https://www.andygalpin.com/  Instagram: @drandygalpin  LinkedIn: Andy Galpin  YouTube: @drandygalpin  Connect with Dr. Robyne:  Website: https://drrobyne.ca/  Instagram: @dr_robynehd  LinkedIn: drrobynehd  YouTube: @dr_robynehd  Newsletter: https://drrobyne.ca/newsletter/  Disclaimer

    44 min
  2. How to Shift Your State and Transform Your Reality with Ian Lopatin

    MAR 25

    How to Shift Your State and Transform Your Reality with Ian Lopatin

    In this week’s episode, Dr. Robyne welcomes Ian Lopatin, co-founder of Spiritual Gangster and Of Course Sanctuary, and a noted entrepreneur in the spirituality space. Ian shares his non-linear journey from lawyer to yoga instructor to building movements rooted in community, positivity, and joy. Together, they explore how ancient wisdom and modern science intersect, and how our energy, mindset, and daily practices shape the way we experience our lives. Ian offers practical strategies for shifting out of low-energy states, moving beyond stress and scarcity, and cultivating abundance and connection. You’ll hear reflections on why success alone doesn’t guarantee fulfillment, the importance of infusing goals with emotion, why true wellness is deeply tied to connection, and how cultivating hope can open doors for transformation in ourselves and those around us. If you’ve felt weighed down by negative energy or disconnected from possibility, this conversation will leave you feeling energized, empowered, and ready to step into a more expansive way of living. Listener note: This episode includes mention of drugs, alcohol, and suicide. Some listeners may find this content sensitive. In this episode, you’ll learn: • The science and ancient wisdom behind practices that help regulate emotional states and foster connection to the self and others • How to shift your mindset from lack to abundance, even in challenging times • Ways to increase your energetic frequency each day, using practices like meditation, journaling, and breathwork • The connection between your personal state of being and thinking and the reality you experience • Why hope, connection, and belief are fundamental to creating meaningful change Additional Resources: • Spiritual Gangster • Of Course Sanctuary • Dr. Joe Dispenza Get in Touch with Dr. Robyne: • Watch episodes on YouTube • Get Dr. Robyne's book: Calm Within The Storm • Get Dr. Robyne’s book: Stress Wisely • Get Dr. Robyne’s book: I Hope So • Join Dr. Robyne’s Stress Wisely Labs • Follow Dr. Robyne on Instagram • Follow Dr. Robyne's LinkedIn • Visit Drrobyne.ca • Sign up to receive new episodes to your inbox every week Disclaimer

    36 min
  3. Empowered Choices in Motherhood, Mental Health, and Self-Care with Ariana Joy Christie

    MAR 18

    Empowered Choices in Motherhood, Mental Health, and Self-Care with Ariana Joy Christie

    In this episode, Dr. Robyne is joined by Ariana Joy Christie, podcast host, content creator, and mom of three known for her honest reflections on motherhood, wellness, and showing up for yourself in every season of life. Together, Dr. Robyne and Ariana explore the power of changing course, embracing growth, and finding joy in the everyday, whether that looks like pivoting careers, stepping into new passions, or making wellness practices non-negotiable. Through stories of vulnerability and reckoning, they offer practical wisdom for trusting your intuition, finding agency when life feels overwhelming, and letting go of guilt around self-care, especially for women balancing work, family, and their own dreams. If you’re ready to break old rules, give yourself permission to choose joy, and model resilience for your loved ones, you'll find inspiration and actionable ideas to help you navigate any season and show up as your most resourced self. Listener note: This episode includes discussion of depression and mental health. If you’re struggling, please reach out to a trusted person or mental health support resource in your area. In this episode, you’ll learn: • The freedom and power that comes from allowing yourself to change your mind and embrace new paths • The importance of respecting yourself and making time for your own needs, especially as a caregiver and parent • Practical reframes for releasing guilt and rewriting outdated self-care “rules” • How movement, community, and respecting your body can spark joy and support mental wellness • Why modeling well-being for your kids lays the foundation for their own resilience • How to navigate criticism and online “noise” with self-compassion and grace • Small, practical ways to pour into yourself so that you can give more to the people and projects you care about Additional Resources: • Ariana’s podcast co-hosted with Renee Reina: Friend Of • Ariana’s podcast: Your Cup of Joy with Ariana Joy Christie • Dr. Robyne on Your Cup of Joy with Ariana Joy Christie • Dr. Robyne’s Psychology Today Post: 3 Ways Women Can Reclaim Their Wellness • Dr. Robyne’s Psychology Today Post: Small Ways to Care for Yourself When Life Is a Lot Get in Touch with Ariana: • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arianajoychristie/ • TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@arianachristie Get in Touch with Dr. Robyne: • Watch episodes on YouTube • Get Dr. Robyne's book: Calm Within The Storm • Get Dr. Robyne’s book: Stress Wisely • Get Dr. Robyne’s book: I Hope So • Join Dr. Robyne’s Stress Wisely Labs • Follow Dr. Robyne on Instagram • Follow Dr. Robyne's LinkedIn • Visit Drrobyne.ca • Sign up to receive new episodes to your inbox every week Disclaimer

    39 min
  4. Unlocking Growth Through Mentorship, Mindset, and Digital Skills with Kareem Perez

    MAR 11

    Unlocking Growth Through Mentorship, Mindset, and Digital Skills with Kareem Perez

    In today’s episode, Dr. Robyne sits down with digital marketing thought leader, educator, and future workforce trainer Kareem Perez for a conversation about the transformative impact of mentorship, mindset, and digital skills in our ever-changing world. Kareem opens up about his journey founding The Tech Effect and how his unique approach to bridging the gap between untapped talent and opportunity in both corporate and entrepreneurial spaces goes beyond just teaching technical digital skills to also addressing mindset and overcoming the hidden blockers to growth. Together, they explore the differences between mentorship and coaching, and how clarity, courage, and a supportive network can help you step into your potential while staying connected to your core values. You’ll also hear insights on building confidence, taking healthy risks, and the importance of “sending the elevator back down” to support those coming up behind you. If you’re seeking clarity on your next steps, curious about leveraging technology for good, or simply looking for permission to craft your career and life by design, this episode is filled with actionable insights and wholehearted encouragement. In this episode, you’ll learn: • The difference between mentorship, coaching, and sponsorship • Strategies for making the most of mentoring relationships • Why transferable digital skills are essential in a changing job market • How to build confidence, overcome fear, and take intentional risks • The value of sharing your story and “sending the elevator back down” to help others • How to align your work with your core values to protect your well-being • How technology opens doors for creativity and connection *** Feeling stretched thin or stuck in constant output mode? Join Dr. Robyne’s Day in Quarters workshop and learn how to design your days with intention, so you can show up fully at work, at home, and in life. March 18 & 19 | Two live 55-minute sessions. Save your spot: https://drrobyne.ca/day-in-quarters-workshop/ Additional Resources: • The Tech Effect Academy: The Mentorship Mastermind • Give and Take by Adam Grant • Radical Candor by Kim Scott Get in Touch with Kareem: • Website: https://thetecheffect.ca/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kareemperez/ Get in Touch with Dr. Robyne: • Watch episodes on YouTube • Get Dr. Robyne's book: Calm Within The Storm • Get Dr. Robyne’s book: Stress Wisely • Get Dr. Robyne’s book: I Hope So • Join Dr. Robyne’s Stress Wisely Labs • Follow Dr. Robyne on Instagram • Follow Dr. Robyne's LinkedIn • Visit Drrobyne.ca • Sign up to receive new episodes to your inbox every week Disclaimer

    32 min
  5. The Win-Win Advantage of Strategic Giving and Asking with Mo Bunnell

    MAR 4

    The Win-Win Advantage of Strategic Giving and Asking with Mo Bunnell

    This week on Life by Design, Dr. Robyne sits down with bestselling author, business development expert, and founder of Bunnell Idea Group, Mo Bunnell, for a thoughtful conversation about how to grow your business and career by building genuine relationships rooted in generosity and trust. Mo shares the research behind why strategic givers often outperform their peers and why the most meaningful growth comes from serving others in intentional and sustainable ways. Together, they explore what it really means to give without strings attached while still being thoughtful about your time, energy, and boundaries. You will hear practical insights and phrases you can use right away to offer value upfront, make confident asks, and nurture connections that evolve over time. Plus, how three relationship-deepening actions per week can spark momentum, broaden your positive influence, and bring new opportunities your way. If you’ve ever struggled with the discomfort of selling or simply want a more relationship-centered approach to life and work, this conversation will transform the way you think about giving, asking, and building a path that serves both others and yourself. In this episode, you’ll learn: • The difference between traditional sales and a relationship-driven, service-focused approach to building business • How operating from a place of abundance and strategic giving can break through scarcity mindsets and foster authentic, valuable connections • Why the person who makes the most offers of helpfulness is going to win the most business almost every time • How the highest performers know how to say yes (and no) and size their contributions thoughtfully • Phrases and conversation starters you can use immediately to build momentum, suggest next steps, and move relationships forward • Why focusing on three meaningful actions each week can transform your business and life *** Feeling stretched thin or stuck in constant output mode? Join Dr. Robyne’s Day in Quarters workshop and learn how to design your days with intention, so you can show up fully at work, at home, and in life. March 18 & 19 | Two live 55-minute sessions. Save your spot: https://drrobyne.ca/day-in-quarters-workshop/ Additional Resources: • Give to Grow: Invest in Relationships to Build Your Business and Your Career by Mo Bunnell • The Snowball System: How to Win More Business and Turn Clients into Raving Fans by Mo Bunnell • Free Give to Grow Supplemental Resources: givetogrow.info • Mo’s Podcast: Real Relationships Real Revenue • Give and Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success by Adam Grant Get in Touch with Mo: • Website: https://bunnellideagroup.com/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mobunnell/ Get in Touch with Dr. Robyne: • Watch episodes on YouTube • Get Dr. Robyne's book: Calm Within The Storm • Get Dr. Robyne’s book: Stress Wisely • Get Dr. Robyne’s book: I Hope So • Join Dr. Robyne’s Stress Wisely Labs • Follow Dr. Robyne on Instagram • Follow Dr. Robyne's LinkedIn • Visit Drrobyne.ca • Sign up to receive new episodes to your inbox every week Disclaimer

    37 min
  6. Reclaiming Agency Over Your Mind and Body with Courtney Townley

    FEB 25

    Reclaiming Agency Over Your Mind and Body with Courtney Townley

    In this episode of Life by Design, Dr. Robyne welcomes health and self-leadership coach, author, speaker, and podcast host Courtney Townley for a refreshingly honest conversation about the noise and pressure that often surround modern wellness culture. Together, they explore why chasing one-size-fits-all solutions and holding ourselves to unrealistic standards so often leaves us feeling frustrated, disconnected, and farther from true well-being. This conversation offers a more human way forward: one rooted in authentic self-awareness, radical responsibility, and compassionate curiosity. From the power of “Isn’t that interesting?” as an antidote to self-judgment to the importance of setting healthy boundaries (even when it feels uncomfortable), they share practical insights and small, accessible practices for tuning in, soothing your nervous system, and honoring what you need. If you’re ready to reclaim your sense of agency, experiment with supportive practices, and explore what genuinely feels nourishing for you, this conversation will meet you exactly where you are. In this episode, you’ll learn: • The importance of self-leadership skills in navigating health and life changes (not just following “cookie-cutter” protocols) • How emotional well-being is linked to physical health • Two major pillars of resilience: removing unnecessary stress and leaning into purposeful, growth-building stress • How curiosity can interrupt self-judgment, build emotional capacity, and spark growth • Ways to consciously shift your inner narrative • Why boundaries are an act of respect for yourself, and practical strategies for setting them • The critical difference between being a “dictator” to your body versus being in relationship with it • Tips for experimenting with body-based practices so you can find what genuinely supports your regulation and well-being *** Dr. Robyne’s new book, I Hope So, is now available! Order your copy today by visiting: https://drrobyne.ca/hope/ Additional Resources: • The Consistency Code: A Midlife Woman’s Guide to Deep Health and Happiness by Courtney Townley • Courtney’s Podcast: Grace & Grit • The Courage to Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga • Sir Ken Robinson’s TED Talk: Do schools kill creativity? Get in Touch with Courtney: • Website: https://graceandgrit.com/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gracegrit/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtney-townley-a470a236 Get in Touch with Dr. Robyne: • Watch episodes on YouTube • Get Dr. Robyne's book: Calm Within The Storm • Get Dr. Robyne’s book: Stress Wisely • Get Dr. Robyne’s book: I Hope So • Join Dr. Robyne’s Stress Wisely Labs • Follow Dr. Robyne on Instagram • Follow Dr. Robyne's LinkedIn • Visit Drrobyne.ca • Sign up to receive new episodes to your inbox every week Disclaimer

    40 min
  7. How to Make Learning Feel Good: Strategies for Students and Supporters with Dr. Deena Kara Shaffer

    FEB 20

    How to Make Learning Feel Good: Strategies for Students and Supporters with Dr. Deena Kara Shaffer

    Today on Life by Design, Dr. Robyne is joined by the insightful Dr. Deena Kara Shaffer, a passionate global learning strategist, educator, and author dedicated to making learning more efficient and enjoyable for students of all ages. Together, they unpack the real challenges of learning within rigid educational systems and discuss how holistic learning strategies can empower students to find ease, confidence, and even joy in their educational journeys. Dr. Deena shares why “learning how to learn” is the missing skill, how technology and AI can be harnessed ethically to enhance study habits, and why rest, connection, and self-compassion are non-negotiable for sustainable achievement. Throughout the conversation, you’ll hear practical tools and thoughtful guidance for students, supporters, and educators, including what tends to get in the way of learning and what we can begin doing differently to foster true resilience and well-being. If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on how to support your children, your students, or even yourself, this episode will leave you feeling seen, encouraged, and equipped to bring more compassion, clarity, and relief into the learning process. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How holistic learning strategies and building a personalized toolbox can transform the education experience for learners of all ages • Why learning can and should feel good, and how that’s possible even within rigid educational systems • Insights into why tests and timed assessments are still used • How using free AI tools and the Awakened Learning Method can support students’ study practices • Effective ways parents and educators can support learners without added pressure • Practical ways to foster confidence, curiosity, and self-advocacy in any learning environment *** Dr. Robyne’s new book, I Hope So, is now available! Order your copy today by visiting: https://drrobyne.ca/hope/ Additional Resources: • Feel Good Learning: On how to prioritise, focus, study, and learn everything better by Deena Kara Shaffer, PhD • Raising Well Learners: Helping parents support students from stress to success by Deena Kara Shaffer, PhD • Free Resources for Learners – Awakened Learning • Low-Cost Resources for Learners – Awakened Learning • All-Welcome Skill-Build – “The Essentials”: Giving students, parents, and educators practical, holistic learning strategies • Awakened Learning newsletter – Get free resources and learning strategies straight to your inbox • Free AI tools mentioned to support learning/studying: ChatGPT, Perplexity, Magic ToDo, NotebookLM Get in Touch with Dr. Deena: • Website: http://www.awakenedlearning.ca/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awakenedlearning/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deenakarashaffer/ Get in Touch with Dr. Robyne: • Watch episodes on YouTube • Get Dr. Robyne's book: Calm Within The Storm • Get Dr. Robyne’s book: Stress Wisely • Get Dr. Robyne’s book: I Hope So • Join Dr. Robyne’s Stress Wisely Labs • Follow Dr. Robyne on Instagram • Follow Dr. Robyne's LinkedIn • Visit Drrobyne.ca • Sign up to receive new episodes to your inbox every week Disclaimer

    44 min
  8. Doing the Hard Thing Today to Avoid the Harder Thing Tomorrow with Rory Vaden

    FEB 18

    Doing the Hard Thing Today to Avoid the Harder Thing Tomorrow with Rory Vaden

    In today’s episode, Dr. Robyne welcomes author, personal branding strategist, and entrepreneur Rory Vaden for a practical and inspiring conversation about what it really takes to create lasting change, both for ourselves and for the people we serve. Together, they explore why the highest performers don’t chase shortcuts but instead commit to doing the difficult, meaningful work others often avoid. Rory shares his “take the stairs” philosophy, reminding us that real progress comes from consistently choosing long-term results over immediate comfort. You’ll hear why enjoyment isn’t a requirement for meaningful action, how the “pain paradox” reveals that tough choices today often create an easier future, and why unglamorous, boring habits can radically transform your life. They also discuss why hope isn’t just a soft skill but a tactical advantage, and how shifting your thinking from “Is it possible?” to “How could it be possible?” unlocks new pathways and opportunities. If you’re ready to redefine your habits, design your future with intention, or find the courage to share your story, this episode is your invitation to think long-term, commit to the work, embrace the messy middle, and trust that every setback is preparing you for something greater. Listener note: This conversation includes mention of suicide. If this topic feels sensitive for you, please take care while listening. In this episode, you’ll learn: • The four levels of influence and how understanding them can multiply your impact • Why the highest performers aren’t chasing shortcuts • The “pain paradox” and how embracing tough moments now leads to easier, more fulfilled living later • How hope is both a strategy and a superpower for leadership, personal growth, and resilience • Tactical mindset shifts to help you ask better questions and unlock new possibilities • Why you’re most powerfully positioned to serve the person you once were • What it truly means to unlearn limitation, reprogram your thinking, and step into identities you once thought impossible *** Dr. Robyne’s new book, I Hope So, is now available! Order your copy today by visiting: https://drrobyne.ca/hope/ Additional Resources: • Take the Stairs: 7 Steps to Achieving True Success by Rory Vaden • Procrastinate on Purpose: 5 Permissions to Multiply Your Time by Rory Vaden • Wealthy and Well-Known: Build Your Personal Brand and Turn Your Reputation into Revenue by Rory & AJ Vaden • Rory’s podcast with his wife AJ: Wealthy and Well-Known Podcast • TEDx Talk: How to Multiply Your Time | Rory Vaden • Have a calling on your heart and interested in learning more about how to turn your passion into a business? - Request a free brand call with Brand Builders Group by visiting www.freebrandcall.com/lifebydesign Get in Touch with Rory: • Website: https://roryvaden.com/ • Website (Brand Builders Group): https://brandbuildersgroup.com/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roryvaden/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roryvaden • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RoryVadenYT/videos Get in Touch with Dr. Robyne: • Watch episodes on YouTube • Get Dr. Robyne's book: Calm Within The Storm • Get Dr. Robyne’s book: Stress Wisely • Get Dr. Robyne’s book: I Hope So • Join Dr. Robyne’s Stress Wisely Labs • Follow Dr. Robyne on Instagram • Follow Dr. Robyne's LinkedIn • Visit Drrobyne.ca • Sign up to receive new episodes to your inbox every week Disclaimer

    48 min
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4.9
out of 5
41 Ratings

About

Welcome to Life by Design with Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe. This podcast is a space for real conversations about well-being, resilience, performance, leadership, and everyday life – and how the small choices you make each day shape the quality of your life. Living a big, beautiful life isn’t reserved for a select few; it’s built in the ordinary moments, the routines that ground us, the acts of self-care that restore us, and the intentional decisions that align us with what matters most. Each week, we take big ideas and turn them into practical habits, tools, and practices you can actually use. Those everyday choices are what allow you to be steady, capable, and even extraordinary when life calls on you. If you’re ready to be intentional about how you show up, what you prioritize, and the life you’re building over time, you’re in the right place. Together, we’ll explore what it truly takes to live well and be well by design. We’re so glad you’re here.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    83
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe
  • Show Website
    Life By Design

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