The People Teaching People Podcast Tiana Fech

In this episode of The People Teaching People Podcast, I’m joined by Jelena Bajic, the Dean of the Faculty of Business, Environment, Technology, and Continuing Education at NorQuest College in Edmonton, Alberta. Jelena shares her journey from Yugoslavia to South Africa, the UK, Saudi Arabia, and ultimately Canada, highlighting her passion for high employee engagement, motivation, and professional development. 

Jelena discusses her belief in community-driven impact, her experience at various educational institutions, and her role at NorQuest College. She offers insights into organizational transformation, interdisciplinary learning, and the future of education. Jelena also touches on the importance of mentorship, continuous learning, and embracing change. 

Jelena believes in community-driven impact that elevates individuals and the collective. She has a special interest in high employee engagement and motivation during organizational transformations. Her experiences have taught her that prioritizing staff learning and professional development always pays dividends through increased innovation, engagement and productivity, driving greater team and organizational impact.

Over the past 20+ years Jelena has worked with highly skilled individuals in South Africa, the UK, Saudi Arabia and Canada in various capacities, from Energy Advisory as an Advisor at Tetra Consulting in the UK to Research Operations as the Managing Director at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology.

Today, Jelena is the Dean of the Faculty of Business, Environment, Technology and Continuing Education at NorQuest College in Edmonton, Alberta. NorQuest’s purpose - At NorQuest, we transform lives. And when we do that, we transform communities, we transform the world, we transform the future. – is so strongly aligned to Jelena’s view of the role and impact of education.

As an Energy Futures Lab Fellow, Jelena continues to explore the intricate interplay between business, technology and environmental disciplines which is undeniably shaping our communities and economy today and will continue to do so into the future. Some of this work is also shaping priorities in her portfolio at NorQuest College with regard to skill and competency development for learners, as well as workforce development.

Jelena is passionate about empowering others to act and engages in many working groups, events and committees. Beyond her work-related commitments, Jelena is also the President of a childcare society, a SHE Leads Mentor and an avid supporter of the Edmonton culinary and arts scenes.

Jelena earned a PhD in Environmental Biology from the University of Cape Town, South Africa. She is trained in Business Management, Change Management and Strategic Communication. 

 

Listen in as we talk about:

04:09 Jelena's story

13:03 NorQuest College in Edmonton, Alberta #WeAreWhoWeInclude

17:49 Strategic direction and faculty development with educational change

22:35 Interdisciplinary opportunities and the future of education

24:30 Educational change and personal development

27:20 The multifaceted approach to the energy transition 

31:04 Embracing diverse learning styles

33:57 Decolonizing curriculum and anti-racism efforts

35:34 The importance of curiosity and unlearning

38:09 Collaborative problem solving and diverse perspectives

40:16 Audiobooks: A new way to read

42:53 Hockey and community spirit

46:03 Jelena’s favourite teacher

48:09 Jelena’s pride in teamwork and engaging with mentors

51:35 Jelena’s words of wisdom

 

Connect with Jelena:



LinkedIn: Jelena Bajic



 

Learn more about NorQuest College:



Website: https://www.norquest.ca/

LinkedIn: NorQuest College

Instagram: @norquestcollege

Facebook: @NorQuestCollege

YouTube: @NorQuestCollegeVideos

In this episode of The People Teaching People Podcast, I’m joined by Mariya Stokes, a talented and community-focused country music artist from Stavely, Alberta. Mariya shares her journey from growing up in a musical family to becoming Country Music Alberta's two-time Horizon Female Artist of the Year. She discusses her songwriting process, the importance of community support, and the mentors who have influenced her career. Mariya also talks about the challenges and joys of being an independent artist, her passion for vintage fashion, and the excitement surrounding the release of her debut full-length album. 

I am above and beyond thrilled to have Mariya Stokes joining me as my guest on my 100th PODCAST EPISODE!

Mariya and I connected at a Mamas for Mamas Calgary event back in September of 2022 where I had the opportunity to see her perform and to sit beside her at dinner and have an amazing conversation. Mariya is not only incredibly talented but also heart-centred in her approach to music and in her connections and interactions with her community. 

If Kacey Musgraves and Lake Street Dive had a country-soul love child, the result would be Mariya Stokes. Known for her distinct retro style and quirky sense of humor, Country Music Alberta's two-time Horizon Female Artist of the Year is on the cusp of releasing her debut full-length album. Her single, "You Want Me," dropped in February 2024 and her single “One of Em'', was released in May 2024! Growing up in Stavely, Alberta, Mariya’s music reflects her roots: honest country lyrics seamlessly blended with pop-influenced melodies. Additionally, Mariya was a top-eight semifinalist in SiriusXMs Top of the Country in partnership with the Canadian Country Music Association in 2024. And - she is looking forward to performing on the main stage this summer at Country Thunder Alberta!

 

Listen in as we talk about:

03:00 Mariya’s story

05:16 Family and musical influences

07:03 Mariya’s songwriting process

09:19 The power of collaboration

12:09 Advice for aspiring musicians

14:14 Navigating the business of music

17:12 Mariya’s “pinch me” moments

20:48 Mariya’s upcoming projects and shows

23:07 Giving back to the community

24:54 Songwriting as personal expression

29:26 Mariya’s personal style and vintage fashion

32:33 The role of personal style in branding

37:28 Music and mentorship

42:30 What Mariya is most proud of

43:56 Mariya answers some rapid-fire questions

46:39 Mariya’s final thoughts and words of wisdom

 

Connect with Mariya:



Website: https://www.mariyastokes.com/

Instagram: @mariyastokes 

Facebook: @mariyastokes 

TikTok: @mariyastokes 



 

Connect with Tiana:



Website: https://tianafech.com

LinkedIn: Tiana Fech

Instagram: @tianafech 

Facebook: @tianafech 

Book: Online Course Creation 101: A step-by-step guide to creating your first online course 



Today’s episode is produced by VOLT Productions, a full-service podcast production agency helping creators and entrepreneurs launch, grow and monetize their shows. You can learn more about the agency’s founder Simona, their work and their team by going to www.voltproductions.co. 

 

FAMILY AND MUSICAL INFLUENCES

Mariya shares that music was a significant part of her upbringing, heavily influenced by her family's musical background. Her father was a drummer and singer in a family band, and her grandfather was a skilled keyboard player. On the other side of her family, her grandfather played bass in a rock band in the 60s and even opened for the Beach Boys. Growing up surrounded by music, Mariya found it accessible and was encouraged by her community in Stavely, where many local musicians supported her journey, including neighbors who taught her guitar and provided a welcoming space to pract...

In this episode of The People Teaching People Podcast, Jolie Viguers, a seasoned CPA and financial coach, joins me to discuss a range of topics including money, finances, financial coaching, community, curiosity, and values. 

Jolie shares her journey from becoming an accountant to founding Well Bean Coaching, her own financial coaching business, emphasizing the importance of understanding one's money stories and deep values. She talks about her approach to financial coaching, which focuses on empowering clients by aligning their financial plans with their life's goals and values. Jolie also delves into the nuances between financial coaching and financial advising, her target clientele, and how she tailors her coaching techniques to individual needs. Additionally, Jolie discusses her popular online community, the Canadian Ladies Money Club, and shares insights on addressing common financial questions like whether to pay off debt or invest. Throughout the conversation, Jolie emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, compassionate curiosity, and maintaining alignment with personal values.

Jolie is a CPA and Financial Coach with a passion to make her clients more confident with their money.  She works with women to understand their money stories and deep values, in order to achieve alignment with their spending and investing. Resolving the stress and frustration of debt and cash flow struggles and transforming that into sustainable plans makes for a big impact!  Jolie has worked as an accountant for 20+ years, and is active in the Financial Independence community. She is also the leader at "Canadian Ladies Money Club" on Facebook, with a mission to normalize the conversations about money.

 

Listen in as we talk about:

02:57 Becoming a financial coach

05:24 The role of a financial coach

08:54 Who benefits from financial coaching?

11:20 Personalizing financial coaching: drifters vs. strugglers

13:40 The path to financial independence

18:35 Teaching and learning as a financial coach

23:14 The emotional aspect of financial coaching

27:58 Couples and money: navigating different values

30:13 The Canadian Ladies Money Club

32:56 Celebrating financial wins in a supportive community

34:05 The power of community in financial learning

37:29 Navigating the debate: paying off debt vs. investing

43:45 Influential educators and the Trauma of Money course

48:04 Staying true to values in financial decisions

52:45 Jolie answers some rapid-fire questions

56:00 Jolie’s words of wisdom 

 

Connect with Jolie:



Website: https://www.wellbeancoaching.com/

Instagram: @wellbeancoaching

Facebook: @wellbeancoaching



Facebook Group: Canadian Ladies Money Club







 

Connect with Tiana:



Website: https://tianafech.com

LinkedIn: Tiana Fech

Instagram: @tianafech 

Facebook: @tianafech 

Book: Online Course Creation 101: A step-by-step guide to creating your first online course 



Today’s episode is produced by VOLT Productions, a full-service podcast production agency helping creators and entrepreneurs launch, grow and monetize their shows. You can learn more about the agency’s founder Simona, their work and their team by going to www.voltproductions.co. 

 

PERSONALIZING FINANCIAL COACHING: DRIFTERS VS. STRUGGLERS

Jolie’s financial coaching methodology centers around empowering her clients by guiding them to articulate their life aspirations and then strategically aligning their finances to achieve those objectives. This comprehensive approach encompasses not only educating clients on fundamental financial concepts such as math, account management, investments, budgets, and compound interest but also delving into the psychological aspects and mindset associated with money matters.

In this episode of The People Teaching People Podcast, Dr. Andrew Dutcher, a renowned child and adolescent psychiatrist, keynote speaker, and author of 'Big-Hearted Parenting (Even When It Seems Impossible)', discusses his journey from speed skating to becoming a medical professional dedicated to preventing Indigenous children's entry into the child welfare system in Canada. 

Andrew shares insights from his book and his work, emphasizing the importance of building strong, healthy relationships between parents and children to foster resilience and positive growth. He offers practical advice for parents to improve communication, manage emotions, and create a nurturing home environment, highlighting the role of teaching and learning in effective parenting and mental health support.

Dr. Andrew Durcher believes in keeping families together. He empowers parents by equipping them with the tools and resources to improve relationships and create a healthy home environment. Andrew is a sought-after keynote speaker, educator and storyteller. He has expanded his repertoire from writing medical histories and prescriptions to writing books. He published his first book, Big-Hearted Parenting (Even When It Seems Impossible), in 2023. 

Andrew got his medical degree from Dalhousie University and received his specialized training as a child and adolescent psychiatrist through the University of Calgary. Andrew dedicates much of his time to working with Indigenous youth and children in the child welfare system in both Alberta and New Brunswick. Andrew is a Wolastoqey member of the Tobique First Nation in New Brunswick. He now calls Calgary home. Andrew has been featured as a mental health expert in several stories covered by CTV News. His mission is to prevent any more Indigenous children from being taken into the child welfare system in Canada. When he's not working, he's on the hunt for good eats with his wife and exploring nature and other cool places with his three kids. 

 

Listen in as we talk about:

02:50 Becoming a child and youth psychiatrist 

09:12 Teaching as a child and youth psychiatrist

11:00 The importance of having a learner’s’ mind and heart

12:26 The difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist

14:19 Big-hearted parenting

16:38 The wisdom in our yelling as parents=

19:36 How to yell less as parents

22:55 Building stronger connections with our children

27:31 How to become a big-hearted champion

28:55 Helping our children listen - a little bit better

31:30 How to best support our children

33:34 Andrew’s favourite teacher

35:31 Andrew answers some rapid-fire questions

38:12 Andrew’s words of wisdom - relationships and stories are everything

 

Connect with Dr. Andrew Dutcher:



Website: https://drandrewdutcher.com/

Instagram: @drandrewdutcher 

LinkedIn: Dr. Andrew Dutcher

TikTok: @drandrewdutcher

Book: Big-Hearted Parenting (Even When It Seems Impossible)



 

Connect with Tiana:



Website: https://tianafech.com

LinkedIn: Tiana Fech

Instagram: @tianafech 

Facebook: @tianafech 

Book: Online Course Creation 101: A step-by-step guide to creating your first online course 



Today’s episode is produced by VOLT Productions, a full-service podcast production agency helping creators and entrepreneurs launch, grow and monetize their shows. You can learn more about the agency’s founder Simona, their work and their team by going to www.voltproductions.co. 

 



THE IMPORTANCE OF HAVING A LEARNER’S MIND AND HEART

“I need to have a learner's mind and a learner's heart when it comes to working with young people, because they're the experts in themselves.”

In his role as a child and youth psychiatrist, Dr. Andrew Dutcher emphasizes the significance of engaging with his young patients to co...

In this episode of The People Teaching People Podcast, we are joined by Noreen Music, an extraordinary speaker, the author of The Unexpected Entrepreneur, and the owner and driving force behind Organize My Space Calgary. 

Noreen's passion is helping people find lasting freedom in their homes and businesses through her transformational organizing services and productivity strategies. Her mission is to support her clients in removing any barriers or blocks to create a stress-free and calm state of flow in all parts of their lives. Out of this state comes abundance, time freedom, deep satisfaction, and greater success.

 

Listen in as we talk about:

02:13 Has Noreen always been organized? 

03:37 Becoming a professional organizer and an unexpected entrepreneur

08:57 Teaching and learning as a professional organizer

12:15 Noreen’s top productivity tips

19:39 "Where do I even start?" when it comes to organization

23:36 The “why” for being more productive and organized 

29:03 Lessons learned through writing a book 

32:34 How to teach kids to be more organized

35:23 Noreen’s favourite home organization products 

38:46 Noreen’s favourite teacher

41:58 What Noreen is most proud of

43:35 Noreen answers some rapid-fire questions

46:48 Noreen’s words of wisdom

 

Connect with Noreen:



Website: https://organizemyspacecalgary.com/

Instagram: @organizemyspacecalgary

Facebook: @organizemyspacecalgary 

LinkedIn:



Noreen Music

Organize My Space Calgary





Book: The Unexpected Entrepreneur: Now You’re Here, Making a Difference While Making a Living



 

Connect with Tiana:



Website: https://tianafech.com

LinkedIn: Tiana Fech

Instagram: @tianafech 

Facebook: @tianafech 

Book: Online Course Creation 101: A step-by-step guide to creating your first online course 



Today’s episode is produced by VOLT Productions, a full-service podcast production agency helping creators and entrepreneurs launch, grow and monetize their shows. You can learn more about the agency’s founder Simona, their work and their team by going to www.voltproductions.co. 

 



NOREEN’S TOP PRODUCTIVITY TIPS

“Productivity isn’t necessarily about doing more but about doing more of the right things at the right time in the right way.”

Noreen emphasizes the significance of managing one's email effectively, describing it as a top productivity tip. She likens the electronic email inbox to the old-fashioned paper inboxes, where physical mail required immediate sorting and action. By treating emails in the same manner—deciding quickly whether to respond, delegate, file, or discard—she argues that individuals can drastically reduce the clutter and inefficiency that typically bogs down their workflow. Noreen notes that this approach is crucial across all levels of professional life, where emails tend to pile up and create a drag on productivity, wasting significant amounts of time each day.

Further, Noreen discusses how the overwhelming volume of emails is a common challenge, yet not a badge of honor. She stresses the importance of maintaining a manageable inbox not only for personal organization but also for maintaining one's credibility and efficiency in the workplace. According to her, effectively managing one's email can have a ripple effect, improving overall productivity and professional standing.

 



“WHERE DO I EVEN START?” WHEN IT COMES TO ORGANIZATION

“Contrary to popular belief, being organized is not a personality trait and not being organized is not a personality trait.”

Noreen discusses the common challenge of feeling overwhelmed when beginning to organize, emphasizing the importance of starting small. She advises choosing the area that causes daily frustration,

In this episode of The People Teaching People Podcast, we are joined by Meg Wilcox. 

Meg loves a great story. Her earliest audio memories are from when she was only 4 or 5 years old, listening to CBC Radio in her dad's art studio. While he painted big sweeping landscapes, she would divide her page into frames to make her own comic strip-like stories -- one frame just wasn't enough!

In hindsight, it probably isn't too surprising that Meg ended up a journalist. She spent many years travelling the country as a radio host, producer and reporter with the CBC, CKUA, and the Banff Centre. Now, she teaches audio storytelling, podcasting, and media freelance in the Journalism and Digital Media program at Mount Royal University in Calgary. She is also co-director of the Community Podcast Initiative -- a place to encourage and explore storytelling and community connection while amplifying and supporting voices that are under-represented and misrepresented in traditional media.

Meg is an award-winning podcaster, and in 2020 she was one of Avenue Magazine's Top 40 under 40. Her first book is called The New Journalist's Guide to Freelancing, and it's out now via Broadview Press.

 

Listen in as we talk about:

3:51 Meg’s journey in becoming a journalist

8:49 Key learning experiences as a journalist

11:05 The importance of being curious

14:17 Creating a safe space for learning

15:54 Developing and teaching a podcasting course

21:19 Meg’s PhD studies with the University of Glasgow

26:22 Meg’s collaboration with Inside Out Theatre

29:44 The role of podcasting in education now and in the future

38:17 Indigenous voices, knowledge, and expertise in podcasting 

46:10 The Community Podcast Initiative

49:42 Meg’s book: The New Journalist’s Guide to Freelancing

55:28 Meg’s words of wisdom 

 

Connect with Meg:



Websites: 



Meg Wilcox: http://www.megwilcox.com/

The Community Podcast Initiative: https://thepodcaststudio.ca/





Instagram:



@meghw

@communitypodyyc





Twitter: @meghw

Book: The New Journalist’s Guide to Freelancing: Building Your Career in the New Media Landscape 

Podcast: Community Podcast Initiative (CPI) Podcast



 

Connect with Tiana:



Website: https://tianafech.com

LinkedIn: Tiana Fech

Instagram: @tianafech 

Facebook: @tianafech 

Book: Online Course Creation 101: A step-by-step guide to creating your first online course 



Today’s episode is produced by VOLT Productions, a full-service podcast production agency helping creators and entrepreneurs launch, grow and monetize their shows. You can learn more about the agency’s founder Simona, their work and their team by going to www.voltproductions.co. 

 

KEY LEARNING EXPERIENCES AS A JOURNALIST

“Journalists have to be curious. Without curiosity and wanting to look at things from other people’s points of view, you can’t translate that to an audience.”

Meg emphasizes the paramount importance of expertise, facts, and context within the realms of journalism, particularly in an era burgeoning with misinformation and disinformation. She highlights the shift in journalism towards acknowledging not just academic experts but also individuals with lived experiences, underlining the richness this diversity brings to understanding stories. Engaging with a broad spectrum of experts, Meg underscores the continuous learning and enriching encounters that journalism facilitates as well as the expertise required in crafting informed narratives.

Furthermore, Meg reflects on the unique allure of live radio broadcasts, stressing the irreplaceable experience of real-time conversations and the organic, compelling nature of such interactions. She underscores the significance of collaboration and the human element i...