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

    9 HRS AGO

    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: a...

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

    2D AGO

    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): a href="https://brandbuildersgroup.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    48 min
  3. Soft Eyes and Heroic Hope: What the World Needs Right Now with Dr. James Rouse

    FEB 11

    Soft Eyes and Heroic Hope: What the World Needs Right Now with Dr. James Rouse

    How do we protect hope and keep our hearts open when the world feels heavy and uncertain? In this week’s episode of Life by Design, Dr. Robyne is joined by Dr. James Rouse, a high-performance coach, author, speaker, and functional medicine doctor, for a heart-opening conversation about hope and purposeful living in challenging times. Together, they explore the science and soul behind hope as a collective remedy, the importance of giving ourselves permission to embrace possibility, and practical strategies for giving cortisol a job and channeling stress into meaningful action. From the transformative practice of “soft eyes” – seeing ourselves and others with compassion – to riding the natural rhythms of our day, Dr. James shares actionable insights to help us find strength, joy, and openness, especially when we’re tempted to turn inward or shrink in the face of adversity. This conversation is a call to stand audaciously in hope, to care deeply, and to become a disruptive force for good, no matter how dark or loud the world becomes. Whether you’re searching for a dose of hope or practical self-care, you’re invited into a field beyond right and wrong, where you can meet yourself and others with love, openness, and the courage to co-create big, bright futures. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How embracing hope, even in times of adversity and uncertainty, is a science-backed remedy for personal and collective resilience • What it means to protect hope, and why humanity needs this heroic activity now more than ever • How to give cortisol a job and finish the stress cycle through high noticing, intentional practices, and meaning-making • The power of “soft eyes” as a daily practice for self-compassion, trust, and agency • Why giving yourself permission to care, stay open, and love deeply transforms personal relationships and leadership • The importance of showing up with authenticity, audacious hope, and collaborative spirit, even when the world asks us to turn down our light *** Dr. Robyne’s new book, I Hope So, is now available! Order your copy today by visiting: https://drrobyne.ca/hope/ Additional Resources: • Dr. James’s Podcast with wife Dr. Debra Rouse: Love & Life Elevated • Books by Dr. James Rouse • Dr. James’s Free Resources Get in Touch with Dr. James: • Website: https://www.drjamesrouse.com/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjamesrouse/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjamesrouse/ Get in Touch with Dr. Robyne: • Watch episodes on YouTube • a...

    41 min
  4. Finding Your People and Building an Authentic Community with Stu McLaren

    FEB 6

    Finding Your People and Building an Authentic Community with Stu McLaren

    Today on Life by Design, Dr. Robyne sits down with entrepreneur, author, and membership expert Stu McLaren for an energizing conversation about the power and potential of building authentic communities. Stu shares the origins of his passion for helping entrepreneurs create sustainable, engaged membership communities, along with the experiences that shaped his approach. From releasing guilt around money and reframing it as a vehicle for generosity and impact, to offering a clear framework for evaluating membership market potential and attracting your people, Stu brings grounded insights and real-world examples for anyone looking to grow their work with intention. You’ll hear reflections on the power of asking for help, the role of community in personal and professional resiliency and success, and why serving even one person well can spark momentum and meaningful transformation. This episode is an invitation to lead with purpose, build spaces where people feel they belong, and remember that the good we put into the world expands when we step up, serve, and aren’t afraid to ask. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why memberships are more than just transactions, and how they become part of your identity • How defining community values shapes engagement and long-term retention • Insights on overcoming money guilt and reframing profit as a pathway for generosity and impact • Three key indicators to know if your idea is membership-worthy • How to navigate resistance and setbacks, and why the courage to ask unlocks support and possibility • Why qualitative data, such as personal stories and case studies, can be just as powerful as big numbers when building trust with your audience • Insights on managing boundaries, prioritizing family, and aligning your work with your core values *** Pre-order your copy of I Hope So (releasing February 10, 2026) by visiting https://drrobyne.ca/hope/ Additional Resources: • Predictable Profits by Stu McLaren • Stu’s Podcast: Marketing Your Business • Stu’s Nonprofit: Village Impact • Stu on The ONE Thing Podcast with Jay Papasan Get in Touch with Stu: • Website: http://membership.io/ • Website: http://stu.me/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stumclaren/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stumclaren/ Get in Touch with Dr. Robyne: • Watch episodes on YouTube • a...

    47 min
  5. Pouring from the Overflow with Raia ‘Coach’ Carey

    FEB 4

    Pouring from the Overflow with Raia ‘Coach’ Carey

    In today’s episode, Dr. Robyne welcomes Coach Carey, a keynote speaker, life coach, and EDI consultant who thoughtfully weaves lived experience, professional expertise, and deep compassion into everything she shares. Together, they explore the evolving understanding of resilience and what it means to cultivate self-awareness in a noisy, distracted world. Rather than pushing through at all costs, this conversation reframes resilience as knowing when to rest, reflect, and set boundaries that honor your energy. Coach Carey shares her transformative “giving from the overflow” philosophy, encouraging us to nurture ourselves first so we can genuinely support others. She also shares practical tools, like her four-question self-inventory, to help you notice patterns, identify what energizes and drains you, and intentionally create more space for what fuels your well-being. They also speak openly about their lived experiences with ADHD, offering thoughtful insights into attention, distraction, and the importance of finding what truly works for you. This episode is your permission slip to rediscover joy through playful restoration, honor your limits without apology, and approach growth with compassion and curiosity. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why giving from your overflow is more sustainable than pouring from a full cup • How honest self-inventory questions can help you track patterns, boost self-awareness, and make meaningful change • The importance of choosing what you consume (including social media, entertainment, and even conversations) to protect your well-being • Strategies for refueling your energy • Why aligning your tasks with your energy (and giving yourself compassion on low days) can transform productivity • Practical ways to manage ADHD, distractions, and information overwhelm • Why showing up authentically is its own superpower *** Pre-order your copy of I Hope So (releasing February 10, 2026) by visiting https://drrobyne.ca/hope/ Get in Touch with Coach Carey: • Website: www.careycoach.com • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coach.carey/ • LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/coachcarey Get in Touch with Dr. Robyne: • Watch episodes on YouTube • Get Dr. Robyne's book: a...

    40 min
  6. Small Shifts That Transform How You Communicate with Debra Roberts

    JAN 30

    Small Shifts That Transform How You Communicate with Debra Roberts

    In this insightful episode of Life by Design, Dr. Robyne is joined by licensed clinical social worker, author, and business consultant Debra Roberts for a meaningful conversation about communication and the small, intentional shifts that can strengthen relationships at home, at work, and everywhere in between. They explore how our upbringing shapes the way we express ourselves, the common traps we fall into during difficult conversations, and how a few practical strategies can help us build personal agency and ask for what we need with greater clarity and confidence. They also discuss concrete, compassionate ways to raise awareness, both in ourselves and others, without confrontation or blame, and offer real-life examples of how subtle changes in language and approach can lead to better outcomes. This episode is filled with accessible, real-world insights you can put into practice right away, whether you’re working to voice your needs more clearly, set healthier boundaries, or bring more kindness and understanding into your everyday conversations. In this episode, you’ll learn: • How foundational communication skills are often missing from early education, and how this impacts our relationships • The role of assumptions and narratives in how we approach conversations • Simple but powerful practices for building self-awareness and personal agency, even in moments of stress or conflict • Strategies to gently raise others’ self-awareness and strengthen conversations without triggering defensiveness • The transformative impact of intentionally choosing when (and how) to engage in difficult conversations • Why the way we speak matters as much as, if not more than, the message itself • Why changing your communication patterns can prompt positive changes in those around you and help build healthy relationships, both personally and professionally *** Pre-order your copy of I Hope So (releasing February 10, 2026) by visiting https://drrobyne.ca/hope/ Additional Resources: • The Relationship Protocol: How to Talk, Defuse and Build Healthier Relationships by Debra Roberts, LCSW • Get 10% off Debra’s program My Communication Tools by visiting mycommunicationtools.com and using coupon code MCT10RHD at checkout Get in Touch with Debra: • Website: https://www.therelationshipprotocol.com/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/debraroberts_lcsw/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-roberts-99b620b3/ Get in Touch with Dr. Robyne: • Watch episodes on YouTube • a...

    35 min
  7. The 10-Year Rule for Building Success That Lasts with Scott Clary

    JAN 28

    The 10-Year Rule for Building Success That Lasts with Scott Clary

    In this episode of Life by Design, Dr. Robyne sits down with entrepreneur, podcast host, and creator Scott D. Clary for a conversation about the realities of success and what it really takes to build something meaningful over time. Together, they explore the mindset behind the “10-year rule,” a long-term approach that reshapes not only how we pursue goals, but how we navigate discomfort, setbacks, and seasons of imbalance. They discuss the power of designing supportive environments and systems that make consistent action easier, as well as the role of an inner circle that both challenges and champions your growth. Plus, why being willing to start imperfectly, put in the reps, and keep iterating is the key to progress. Whether you’re building a business, creating content, or developing any habit, this episode offers practical insight into the real “price of entry” for starting something new, and steady encouragement to keep going, especially on the hard days. In this episode, you’ll learn: • Scott’s approach to content creation and communicating ideas in ways that resonate • The “10-year rule,” and how committing long-term transforms your mindset, expectations, and approach to setbacks • The difference between motivation and discipline, and how to design your life for follow-through • Why having a trusted circle that challenges and champions you is critical to leveling up both personally and professionally • Why there may be seasons where you have to prioritize building over balance • The power of adapting, iterating, and learning as you go, and how to leverage real feedback and data to sharpen your edge • Why we’re living in the golden age of entrepreneurship, opportunity, and creativity *** Pre-order your copy of I Hope So (releasing February 10, 2026) by visiting https://drrobyne.ca/hope/ Additional Resources: • Scott’s Podcast: Success Story with Scott D. Clary • If you liked this episode, you might also enjoy: How to Be a Long-Term Thinker in a Short-Term World with Dorie Clark Get in Touch with Scott: • Website: https://www.scottdclary.com/ • Instagram: https://instagram.com/scottdclary • LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/scottdclary • YouTube: https://youtube.com/c/scottdclary Get in Touch with Dr. Robyne: • Watch episodes on YouTube • a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Calm-Within-Storm-Everyday-Resiliency/dp/1989603874/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1SPL0CD8Q6YL8&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.PJz3Th_dcbmRujuTcsF8mnZrs4OQwf04hH77fWJCcnqbWB5FcXnatevgIxqFLsvk_QzeH5qiu9yVEFwaZ4qSxawyxIs3WARt1gHcl8-L9D_ty3cC3sBM83et6ndB3va7mX7eTUnk7hAZJrANN4HsMTrWk7yknNrGAZpRdVXeWdQihQvMemb6cCxe9JLq7eW4XJItZM_qRCS5atMTw6Mcqj6O_sXOpYgXJsla7JKF_5uxQKjxhuthDMHTP0Sn3fGvZ79aQDfWYoisWlClzFdxvY7p1HwiowtTRU2-cXyP7wA.bnoQrElhlT0XHqxyvuDc5gHAyiyFll5GciLHT7zRjBg&dib_tag=se&keywords=calm+within+the+storm+book&qid=1732547954&sprefix=calm+within%2Caps%2C150&sr=8-1" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    48 min
  8. It’s Never Too Late to Build a Comeback with Brad Jensen

    JAN 21

    It’s Never Too Late to Build a Comeback with Brad Jensen

    In this week’s episode, marking the start of Season 2, Dr. Robyne is joined by fitness and nutrition coach, business owner, and podcast host Brad Jensen, also known as The Sober Bodybuilder, for a grounded conversation at the intersection of physical wellness, mental health, and human resilience. Brad shares openly about his decade-long struggle with addiction, how hitting rock bottom became a turning point, and the role fitness played in his recovery and sustained sobriety as he rebuilt his life from the ground up. Together, they explore the dangers of wellness misinformation, the deeper reasons we pursue health and well-being, and why beginning the day with simple rituals that nourish the mind, body, and spirit can help us show up more fully for ourselves and for the people who are counting on us. Filled with honest reflections and moments of levity, this episode is a reminder that transformation is possible. Whether you’re starting over for the first time or the thirtieth, hope, joy, and purpose can be rebuilt, one intentional day at a time. Listener note: This episode includes discussion of addiction, substance use, and recovery. Some listeners may find this content sensitive. In this episode, you’ll learn: • That personal comebacks are possible • It’s never too late to start fresh or build something meaningful • Why humor is a powerful part of resilience • What it can look like to support a loved one navigating addiction and recovery • Why fulfillment and happiness cannot be found solely through external achievements • The risks of health trends and misinformation on social media • Real, rooted reasons to pursue fitness and well-being • How morning rituals that nourish the mind, body, and spirit help you show up better for yourself and those counting on you *** Pre-order your copy of I Hope So (releasing February 10, 2026) by visiting https://drrobyne.ca/hope/ Additional Resources: • Brad’s Podcast: The Brad Jensen Show • Past episode mentioned: Leadership and Resilience from the Inside Out with Mark Divine • Dublin City University study on social media health and wellness trends Get in Touch with Brad: • Website: https://becomenextlevel.com/coaches/brad/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoberbodybuilder/ Get in Touch with Dr. Robyne: • Watch episodes on YouTube • a...

    51 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
    77
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2024-2026 Robyne HD Inc. All Rights Reserved.
  • Show Website
    Life By Design

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