In this joint episode of "My Most Authentic Life" and the "Commitment to Growth" podcast, hosts Fede Vargas and Mariana Jimenez discuss their personal journeys and challenges with authenticity, mental health, and the immigrant experience. They delve into the pressures of fitting in versus belonging and share their practices for self-care and finding balance. The conversation highlights the importance of honoring one's evolving authentic self and the cultural dualities faced by immigrants. They also explore how these themes intersect with Mental Health Awareness Month, offering insights and practical advice for listeners. The episode underscores the significance of reflecting on one's journey and embracing the messy first drafts of life.00:00 Welcome to My Most Authentic Life00:30 Special Joint Episode: Exploring Mental Health, Authenticity, and the Immigrant Experience01:21 The Art of Self-Care and Authentic Expression04:03 Navigating Identity: The Immigrant Child Experience08:18 Embracing Our Authentic Selves: Personal Stories of Growth18:32 The Power of Movies in Personal Growth27:10 Mental Health Awareness: Reflecting and Nourishing the Soul28:53 Wrapping Up: The Continuous Journey of Self-Discovery Distributed by: Genuina Media

In this episode of "My Most Authentic Life," host Fede Vargas connects with guest Samuel Robertson, exploring the transformative journey of embracing one’s true self. Explore the profound impact of authenticity on mental health and relationships through Samuel’s compelling personal story.- Samuel shares his difficult experiences as a child immigrant in Canada, facing severe bullying and identity challenges.- Discover how embracing his identity and finding a community played a crucial role in Samuel’s mental health recovery and personal growth.- Learn the significance of mental health awareness and the increased support and resources available today.- Samuel discusses key books and cultural insights that influenced his journey toward self-acceptance and activism.- The episode uncovers the difference between fitting in and truly belonging, emphasizing the importance of authentic relationships.Tune in to hear a story of resilience, transformation, and the continuous pursuit of authenticity.Episode Chapters:00:00 Struggles with Fitting In04:50 Evolving Support Systems09:33 Fascinating autobiography of Malcolm X by Alex Haley10:46 Humility and Awareness 14:07 Struggle for belonging opens up for community17:17 Belonging: finding acceptance in diverse communities19:43 Honoring mental health by being authentic self  Distributed by: Genuina Media

Fede shares the nine words that have profoundly transformed his journey. Tune in as he explores how these principles can foster meaningful change and a more fulfilling existence.  5 Key Topics:- How embracing diversity can lead to personal growth and societal improvement.- The life-altering impact of coaching and the power of mentorship.- The significance of creativity and how collaboration boosts creative pursuits.- The importance of bridging generational gaps, particularly between Gen X and millennials, to shape a better future.- Fede's personal testament to the benefits of volunteering, meditation, and embracing activism to enhance health and well-being.Chapter Markers:00:24 Nine Words That Changed My Life00:53 Five Key Takeaways for Personal Growth01:36 A Transformative Journey Begins02:44 The Power of Nine Simple Words04:43 Exploring the Nine Life-Changing Concepts11:53 Recap and Reflections12:38 Conclusion: Your Personal JourneyConnect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media

Toronto-based writer Hope Thompson opens up about repression, desire, and authenticity in storytelling. Hope's work navigates the tension between repression and desire, influenced by her upbringing and interest in crime fiction and mystery. Topics discussed in this episode:00:24 Unpacking Repression and Authenticity 05:52 Personal Insights and Breakthroughs08:59 Authenticity and Personal Growth10:46 Challenges and Evolution of a Writer's Voice17:05 The Power of Collaboration in Creative Work18:48 Investigating Identity and Closetedness23:46 The Second Act Reversal: A Life and Storytelling ConceptConnect with Hope:http://www.hopethompson.net/bio.htmlHope Thompson Bio:Hope is a Toronto-based writer who works in theatre, film and television. As a genre-writer, she turns her queer eye to crime, horror, camp and comedy. Recent career standouts include the publication of her crime story “Stage Diary, 1953” (Cold Canadian Crime: Crime Writers of Canada’s 2022 Anthology) and two seasons writing on the CBC hit comedy series, Baroness Von Sketch Show. Connect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media

The story begins with a significant event that led Blake to confront his problems with alcohol abuse. Through the lens of Blake's experience, the episode unpacks themes of shame, the importance of rigorous honesty, and the pursuit of spiritual sobriety versus mere abstinence. This episode aims to destigmatize conversations about addiction, emphasize the importance of personal liberation, and inspire others on their paths.Topics discussed in this episode:01:36 The Turning Point: A Night to Remember05:40 The Power of Shame in Recovery09:38 Understanding Sobriety: Dry vs. Spiritual15:00 The Steps to Making Amends18:11 Coping Skills and Handling Triggers23:05 Finding Thrills in Sobriety27:10 Reflecting on the Journey and Rapid Fire Round28:51 Closing Thoughts and GratitudeConnect with Blake:https://www.blakepfeil.com/allamericanruins.htmlConnect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media

Mitchell Posthumus shares his candid story of navigating panic disorders and transforming his life. He discusses openly the impact of panic disorders on his social life, the physical and mental transformation he underwent, and the role of fear in personal growth. He emphasizes the significance of accepting struggles and seeking the right information. Tune in to discover how he conquered fear and found empowerment.Episode Chapters:01:15 Mitchell's Struggles and Unhealthy Lifestyle01:34 The Impact of Panic Disorder on Mitchell's Life02:38 Mitchell's Unhealthy Lifestyle and Its Consequences04:42 The Turning Point: Realization and Decision to Change06:17 Mitchell's Physical and Mental Transformation Journey09:12 The Importance of Setting Boundaries and Routines17:44 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Challenges20:30 Advice for Personal Transformation and Mental Health Awareness24:35 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsEpisode Resources:https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/panic-disorderhttps://cmha.ca/brochure/anxiety-disorders/Connect with Mitchell:https://www.instagram.com/mitchellposthumus_/Connect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media

In this episode, Fede welcomes guest Jordan Carroll to discuss intentional career transitions. Jordan elaborates on his journey from serving as a career coach to ultimately co-founding a new business. Drawing from personal experiences, Jordan shares seven valuable lessons he learned during his drastic career pivot. Tune in to hear the exact steps, process, and experiments he executed to facilitate the biggest career transition of his life.Discussed in this Episode:02:40 Recognizing the Signs of a Needed Change04:58 Knowing the Why Behind Your Desire06:22 Access and Navigate Your Network09:22 Passions are Data Points12:05 Listen for Questions14:22 Nurturing the Vessel19:46 Support Systems21:44 Decide from Your Heart, Not Your Mind24:50 The Outcome: A Successful Career TransitionEpisode Resources: Check out the Running Experiment: The exact steps, process, and experiments Jordan executed to facilitate the biggest career transition of his life.https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/7155650512682389504/ Connect with Jordan:https://theremotejobcoach.com/abouthttps://www.instagram.com/jspensir/?hl=enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanscarroll/Connect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media

In this episode, host Fede Vargas interviews Rachel Covert, a former fashion industry professional, who faced a life-altering health diagnosis at age 29, forcing her to rethink her work-life balance. Covert shares her journey of aligning her life with personal values following the pivotal moment that changed her life trajectory. She discusses the importance of embracing discomfort, putting finances in order and sticking to long-term plans, even when they feel uncomfortable. Despite struggling with the transition, Covert emphasizes the importance of family, time and health. She further stresses the significance of devising a detailed action plan when contemplating significant changes in life.Discussed in this episode:00:00 Introduction and Rachel's Life-Changing Diagnosis01:06 Aligning Life with Personal Values02:24 The Pivotal Moment: A Health Crisis05:31 The Aftermath: Career Pivots and Financial Independence06:42 The Power of Support Systems08:40 Aligning Values in a New Life Chapter11:07 Embracing Discomfort and Change15:08 The Importance of Financial Stability17:17 The Power of Persistence19:01 The Value of Health, Time, and Relationships20:27 Embracing Change in an Era of Uncertainty21:59 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Aspirations24:09 Final Thoughts and AdviceConnect with Rachel:https://www.instagram.com/rachel_talksmoney/https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-covert/Connect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media

Join us for this in-depth discussion with Erick Galindo, an award-winning writer, creator, director and storyteller from Compton. Fede and Erick discuss the complex concept of 'home', exploring its meaning in relation to cultural identity, heritage, and personal evolution. Galindo explores his journey of identifying as a misfit and how he uses his personal experiences to tell stories about other misfits. The discussion takes a closer look at the lives of immigrants using the backdrop of Eric's podcast 'Out of the Shadows', underlining the importance of reclaiming their stories. They deep dive into themes like assimilation, immigration history and how individuals can survive and create impact through their work.00:00 Introduction: The Concept of Home00:16 Meet Eric Galindo: Storyteller and Misfit01:44 The Year 1986: A Turning Point for Immigrants04:01 Exploring the Meaning of Home07:18 The Impact of Displacement and Building on Shaky Foundations12:32 Coming Out of the Shadows: Reclaiming Our Stories22:38 Growing Up in Compton: A Journey of Survival and Transformation26:43 Finding Authenticity: Joy, Positivity, and Kindness34:48 Conclusion: The Power of StorytellingChapter HighlightsConnect with Erick: https://www.thisfoo.com/Connect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media

Join us in this empowering conversation with Susan Salzman, you'll learn how to reinvent your life with purpose. Whether you're seeking personal growth or professional development, this episode is a resource for wisdom and inspiration. Tune in and be motivated to embark on your own path of transformation.Episode Chapters:01:37 The Power and Necessity of Reinvention03:09 Pivoting with Purpose05:01 Life Beyond Ambition07:36 Building a Global Lifestyle Brand10:45 Gaining Confidence and Stepping into Authenticity16:08 Overcoming Significant Losses20:30 The Five Stage Framework26:37 Closing Thoughts and Rapid Fire RoundConnect with Susan:https://www.susansalzman.com/Connect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media

In this episode, Fede welcomes Ken Honda to the show, Japan’s Zen guru and international best-selling author of “Happy Money,” surpassing 8 million books sold. Ken introduces his unique concept of happy money, reshaping our understanding of financial relationships and inspiring peace of mind. He highlights the power of gratitude and appreciation in financial health. Listen to learn how to build an abundant life.Highlights from this Episode:01:15 The Concept of Happy Money03:27 Understanding Your Worth vs Your Earnings05:22 The Energy of Money: Giving and Receiving07:29 The Japanese Art of Making Peace with Money10:18 Finding the Happy Medium with Money12:53 The Impact of Lifestyle Inflation14:54 The Power of Gratitude Towards Money17:14 The Importance of Invisible Assets23:27 The Power of Trusting LifeConnect with Ken:https://kenhonda.com/Connect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media

Join us in this deeply inspiring episode with Kyle Buchanan, speaker, host of the feelgoodery podcast, and resident contributor on Canada’s "The Morning Show." Kyle shares his transformative journey from battling anxiety, body image, and self-doubt to becoming a beacon of positivity and self-love. Dive into this candid conversation about overcoming and flourishing, packed with relatable stories, practical wisdom, and empowering insights. Perfect for anyone seeking inspiration to embrace their true self.Topics Covered in this Episode:00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:17 Meet Kyle Buchanan: A Journey of Self-Acceptance00:35 Host's Background and Mission01:32 Kyle's Philosophy: Feel Good, Do Good02:41 Kyle's Struggles: Anxiety, Body Image, and Self-Doubt04:01 Kyle's Journey to Self-Discovery and Acceptance05:50 Kyle's Childhood and Coping Mechanisms07:35 Kyle's Struggles with Bullying09:58 Kyle's Transition into Acting10:51 Kyle's Struggles with Identity and Sexuality16:57 Kyle's Journey into Wellness and Nutrition20:24 Kyle's Return to the Camera: Being Himself25:04 Kyle's Current Work and Projects29:11 Advice for Embracing Change and Authenticity31:34 Advice to Younger Self32:39 Conclusion and FarewellKyle Bio: Kyle Buchanan is a speaker, host of the feelgoodery podcast and a Resident Contributor on Canada's "The Morning Show". A fan of the messy and embarrassing parts of adulthood, Kyle is known for his honesty, humour and nuance in approaching his work. By using his education in nutrition, and his background in entertainment, Kyle bridges both worlds in the content he produces, and aims to provide insightful yet tangible information that helps us all feel good. Because quite frankly, when we feel good, we actually have the gumption to do good - for ourselves, and for others.  He also has his own private practice with a focus on digestive and mental health, working with clients worldwide. For more information, check out www.kylebuchanan.ca. Connect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media

As we prepare to launch new episodes on January 10th, we’re revisiting some of host Fede Vargas’ favourite episodes from the archives. In this episode, we revisit the milestone 50th episode of the podcast, a pivotal moment where Fede taps into the theme of 'starting anew' – a topic especially resonant as we step into the new year. This episode is not just a reflection but an exploration of six profound reasons why embracing the challenges of reinvention can lead to transformative experiences. Fede interweaves his own experiences with valuable insights from past guests, bringing the narrative to life with impactful quotes and memorable anecdotes. Tune in to find inspiration in the art of beginning again.Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:24 The Beauty of Starting Over00:51 Celebrating the 50th Episode00:57 The Power of Starting Over02:35 The Journey of Transformation03:16 Gratitude and Celebration04:43 Six Reasons Why Starting Over is Beautiful05:23 Owning Your Story08:02 Unearthing Your Superpower10:24 Adversity Reveals Authenticity13:37 Truth in Alignment15:58 Starting Over is Good for Your Health18:00 Our Collective Transformation18:22 Conclusion and FarewellConnect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media

As we prepare to launch new episodes in January, we’re revisiting some of host Fede Vargas’  favourite episodes from the archives. In this episode, Fede, interviews Helen Jurado, a self-made sales professional in the media and entertainment industry. Their conversation lends insight into Helen's life, shaped by the lives of her mother and grandmother. These strong Latina women taught her resilience, fearlessness, and the importance of education, which enabled her to become the first in her family to graduate college. Her upbringing instilled a strong work ethic and taught her to be humble, self-aware, and self-sufficient. A key thread in their conversation sees Helen highlight the importance of staying true to oneself, of building supportive communities, and how empowerement can stem from adversity. She underscores the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month and giving visibility to Latino stories.Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction and Welcome Back00:17 Celebrating Latino Stories: A Tribute to Helen Jurado00:52 Getting to Know Helen Jurado: The Early Years02:42 The Power of Strong Women: Helen's Influences02:58 Lessons from Helen's Grandmother07:18 Helen's Mother: The Original Salesperson09:23 Helen's Early Sales Career11:27 The Importance of Self-Awareness and Resilience26:24 Helen's Four Pillars: Education, Protection, Avoiding Pregnancy, and College33:11 The Impact of Sharing Latino Stories33:33 Conclusion: The Power of Kindness and ListeningConnect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media

As we prepare to launch new episodes in January, we’re revisiting some of host Fede Vargas’  favourite episodes from the archives. In this episode, Fede interviews Kara Whipkey, an experiential marketing director who turned to ice bath cold therapy as a part of her mental health journey. Whipkey shares how mental health issues not only affect one's emotions, but daily habits and ways of coping. When the live events industry halted due to COVID-19, Whipkey lost her job, forcing her out of her comfort zone and onto a plane to Mexico. She discovered ice baths and breathwork and found it one of the most effective methods to address her mental state. Her transformative journey aligns with the episode's theme of cultivating mental health awareness, living one's most authentic life, and the importance of fulfilling promises to oneself for personal growth and self-worth. A recurring message is the call to normalize and destigmatize conversations about mental health and self-care routines.Connect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media

How do you measure success? In this year-end episode, host Fede Vargas reflects on his concept of success. Drawing from his life experiences, Fede illustrates how success can take various forms, with it differing at each stage of life. Incorporating guest insights,  the theme of embracing change and adaptability is discussed. Listener feedback is also considered, with an emphasis on internal peace and joy as significant markers of success.00:00 Introduction: A New Perspective on Success01:00 Welcome Back: Reflecting on the Year02:30 Podcast Support: How You Can Help04:06 Defining Success: A Personal Journey06:51 Guest Perspective: Embracing Change and Adaptability09:59 Listener Feedback: Measuring Success Across the Globe12:18 Conclusion: Wrapping Up the Year and Looking AheadConnect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media

How can mindfulness and engaging slowly enhance our lives? In this episode, Fede connects with Marilyn Ball, the host of the iHeart Radio show and global podcast, Speaking of Travel. They explore the concept of engaging slowly and the importance of mindfulness in various aspects of life, including travel. Marilyn shares her unique life journey, from her early years in Asheville, North Carolina to her present-day role as an audio journalist. She talks about lifestyle reinvention, mindfulness and engaging life slowly for deeper connections.  Marilyn takes us through the history of Asheville, its growth, community development, and its recognition as a wellness destination. She discusses her mindful approach to living, including applying it during travels, and the importance of building relationships and acknowledging our shared humanity. Chapters:00:07 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:59 The Importance of Mindfulness and Engaging Slowly04:27 Applying Mindfulness in Travel09:22 The Birth of 'Speaking of Travel'11:11 The Journey of Reinvention15:54 The Importance of Community and Relationship Building19:54 The History of Asheville, North Carolina26:05 Asheville as a Wellness Destination28:21 The Power of Community in AshevilleConnect with Marilyn:https://speakingoftravel.net https://www.instagram.com/speakingoftravelConnect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media

What does it take to trek the famous Camino de Santiago? Retirees and long time friends, Doug Bardoff and Mike Lee found out.  They discuss their adventure as they made their way along this historic 800Km/500 mile path that takes you from France through Northern Spain. The story includes anecdotes of their preparation, challenges they faced such as the physical exertion and harsh terrain, and the concept of spiritual, mental, and physical challenges. They also touch upon the importance of community and camaraderie, as well as the lasting impact of their journey. Show Chapters:00:00 Getting to Know the Guests00:00 The Motivation Behind the Adventure02:02 Preparation and Training for the Journey05:11 The Start of the Adventure06:43 Challenges and Surprises Along the Way11:23 The Importance of Community on the Journey16:04 Overcoming Personal Challenges17:33 The Challenges of the Journey18:19 Preparation and Training for the Trek18:53 The Daily Routine on the Camino19:11 Dealing with Dehydration and Health Issues19:43 Interactions with Fellow Travellers21:36 The Spiritual Aspect of the Journey28:55 Experiencing the Local Culture and History30:02 Reconnecting with Family Roots31:26 Advice for Future TravellersConnect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media

In this episode, Fede hosts media personality Dramos to discuss his journey of self-discovery and embracing authenticity. Dramos shares his experiences as an American-born Latino youth, navigating his identity in the world. He shares his struggle with authenticity, the importance of finding a sense of community. The conversation focuses on the concept of living authentically, the challenge of embracing the pivot, and the concept of 'good trouble'. Dramos discusses the importance of being unapologetic when living an authentic life, leading with purpose over a paycheck, activism, and the intricacies of conscious living. Dramos also provides insights into his upcoming book, 'Just Be', which blends journal entries and photography, encapsulating his perspective on presence in a chaotic world.Connect with Dramos:Website: https://www.dramos.com/Connect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media

Sam Thompson is a commercially minded, creative consultant focused on transformational growth and new business streams. He reflects on his journey from sales to fatherhood, and how the pandemic gifted him a beautiful family.  Sam discusses the value of being passionate about your work. He recalls his father’s view that everyone sells something, knowingly or unknowingly, and the key is aligning this process with what one loves most. For Sam, success transcends career achievements and is synonymous with a comfortable life, time with loved ones, and following your passion.Sam Thompson Short Bio:Sam is a commercially minded, creative consultant focused on transformational growth and new business streams. He is an expert in content financing and distribution, OTT & FAST strategy.Connect with Sam:https://www.linkedin.com/in/thompsoncsamuel/Connect with Fede:Website: https://www.mymostauthenticlife.comInstagram: @mymostauthenticlifehttps://www.instagram.com/mymostauthenticlife/Fede Vargas: https://linktr.ee/fedevargas Distributed by: Genuina Media