Happily Ever Understood

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May 2026

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About the show

Imagine this world an even better place if we aim to understand its people's stories. Seeking to understand favors curiosity, patience, open-mindedness, and empathy. There is an absence of judgment and a desire to see things from others’ points of view, to see their reasons, and feel what they feel. The more we seek understanding, the better we can craft our work. The better our work, the more likely we are to positively impact this world. Understanding is also a way to access knowledge, and knowledge is power. If you want to build a better place, start with listening. That is not all! Because if you listen well and try to understand all sides, you will find that you have so much more than your own story. Because in this world of ours that is so small and so fragile, we are bound together by stories. In such a world, curiosity, patience, open-mindedness, and empathy would be highly valued qualities. People would recognize the power of understanding and would actively strive to cultivate these qualities within themselves and their communities. By embracing the richness of diverse stories, this world would become a more harmonious and inclusive place, where every individual's experiences and perspectives are acknowledged and respected.

Listen to episodes

59 recent

May 5, 202649 min

Breaking the Silence with Kristopher Marks: Season 4 Episode 1

We recognize Mental Health Awareness Month and uplift those living with mental health challenges. As Mental Health Awareness Week begins, we chat with Kristopher Marks, founder of VĪV Mental Health, for a powerful and honest conversation. Kristopher shares his personal journey, from childhood trauma and the breakdown of his family, to navigating his young adult years without support. He opens up about what it took to finally seek help and how those experiences now shape the work he does to support others. Behind every story is a deeper truth—and that healing often begins when we choose to speak about it.

October 1, 202528 min

Crafting Truth and Reconciliation - Season 3 Episode 10

For our National Day for Truth and Reconciliation episode, we sit down with Erin June (she/her/they/them), a 2Spirit Coast Salish artist and educator living with MS on Treaty 6 Territory. Erin’s work is deeply rooted in tradition and connection to the land, with many of her crafts featuring natural materials such as feathers, hide, fur, and wood—often harvested by her own hands. In this conversation, Erin reflects on the meaning of reconciliation, sharing both personal insights and cultural wisdom that challenge us to look deeper at our responsibilities in this ongoing journey.

June 28, 202530 min

Darrendipitous - Season 3 Episode 9

To celebrate Pride Month, we listen to Darren Dyland who shares his powerful journey of self-discovery—from growing up in a small town where he conformed to societal expectations by getting engaged to a woman and becoming a father. After moving to the city and facing challenges with mental health and addiction, Darren found his true path—not just as a gay man, but as a human seeking belonging beyond labels. Today, he empowers others through Healthy Aligned Living (HAL), offering trauma-informed wellness, mentorship, and education programs for youth and underserved communities. Darren’s story is one of resilience, authenticity, and purpose.

June 20, 202536 min

She Rises - Empowering Indigenous Women: Season 3, Episode 8

In honour of National Indigenous History Month, we chat with Natasha Delany—Executive Director of Indigenous Project Events and owner of Delany Enterprises, a business coaching program dedicated to empowering Indigenous women on their path to success. A proud member of Samson Cree Nation, Natasha holds a Bachelor of Business Management from NAIT and an MBA from University Canada West.In this powerful episode, Natasha shares her deeply personal journey—from the traumatic loss of her biological mother and time in foster care, to overcoming addiction and surviving domestic abuse. Her path led her to a place of healing and self-discovery, where she embraced her identity as an Indigenous woman and stepped into her role as a mentor, leader, and advocate. Tune in to hear how Natasha transforms pain into power, and how she’s helping others do the same.https://www.indigenousprojectevents.com/https://thenatashadelany.com/home/

May 26, 202539 min

Living Loud - Mental Health with Chronic Illness: Season 3 Episode 7

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and in this episode, we sit down with Ocean Harris as she shares her journey of being diagnosed with a brain injury and becoming chronically ill. She opens up about the impact this has had on her mental health and offers valuable insights on how to support the chronically ill people in your life, helping foster greater understanding and empathy.

April 23, 202530 min

When Sight Fades Purpose Shines - Season 3 Episode 6

In the latest Happily Ever Understood episode, we meet Aarzoo Makhani, an intern with CNIB’s Come to Work Program, who opens up about navigating life with sight loss and building a path toward independence and purpose. Born in India and now starting fresh in Canada, Aarzoo brings a background in psychology and a deep understanding of resilience. She speaks candidly about societal barriers, self-doubt, and the strength it takes to challenge expectations. Through CNIB’s Come To Work program, she found mentorship, belonging, and the confidence to pursue meaningful work. Aarzoo’s story proves that challenges can shape—not define—us. Her journey highlights the impact of empathy, inclusivity, and the importance of creating spaces where everyone has the chance to thrive.

March 24, 202533 min

From Survival to Sweet Success - Season 3 Episode 5

iListen proudly honors Women's History Month by celebrating the strength and resilience of women like Janet Letendre, the heart behind Gramma Bear’s Cakery. Janet’s journey is one of survival, courage, and transformation.Having grown up with significant trauma before making the brave decision to break free and reclaim her life. She discovered her true passion in baking—a craft that not only provided her with healing but also a path to independence.Through Gramma Bear’s Cakery, Janet has turned her love for baking into a thriving business, creating delicious treats that bring joy to others. Her talents have also taken her to national television, where she showcased her skills on The Food Network's Holiday Baking Championship and The Big Bake: Holiday Season 2. Competing on these prestigious platforms not only validated her expertise but also served as an inspiration to others who dream of turning their passions into a new beginning.This Women’s History Month, iListen celebrates Janet and all women who have overcome adversity to create a brighter future.*Note: Portions of this audio version have been edited to respect some of our listeners. Every effort has been made to ensure the speaker’s story remain authentic.

February 25, 202532 min

Black to the Future with Sherol Leslie - Season 3 Episode 4

iListen honors Black History Month by sharing Sherol Leslie's powerful journey. Her autoimmune condition didn’t just test her—it transformed her. It deepened her commitment to showing up for others, creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and celebrated. Whether building community or organizing fashion shows that amplify marginalized voices, Sherol turns adversity into empowerment. Her mission is not just to thrive but to uplift others, ensuring they do too.

November 23, 202431 min

All Things Accessibility With Diana Dimmock - Season 3 Episode 3

Stepping out of the month-long break for a short moment for iListen to support an entrepreneur making a meaningful impact in her community through advocacy for accessibility. Accessibility 4 Every Body, founded by Diana Dimmock and based in Sherwood Park, Alberta, is a size-inclusive consulting firm dedicated to educating, advocating, and fostering inclusivity for individuals of all body sizes and abilities. The firm is committed to challenging the marginalization of people in larger bodies and creating a world where everyone is valued and included.

September 30, 202427 min

The Orange Book of Cora - Season 3 Episode 2

Join us as we sit down with Cora Gladue, founder of Gladue Collections, to discuss her journey of rediscovering her Indigenous roots and how it has shaped her path as an entrepreneur.In honor of Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30, Cora shares her powerful story of reconnecting with her culture and how it inspired the creation of her fashion brand, Gladue Collections. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about identity, resilience, and the importance of honoring Truth and Reconciliation in both life and business.