Ani Akpanusoh is a creative force in Edmonton whose world blends photography, directing, research, and a genuine love for sports. His approach to storytelling is grounded in emotion, observation, and lived experience, making his work feel both visually striking and deeply human. Whether he’s behind the lens, watching a game, or studying the world with a researcher’s curiosity, Ani brings a thoughtful, intentional perspective to everything he creates.
Ani’s passion for narrative-driven visuals comes from his belief that a single frame can communicate emotion more powerfully than words ever could. He approaches storytelling by paying close attention to colour, environment, message, and fashion, using aesthetic beauty as a gateway to deeper emotional truth. In his process, visuals become a bridge between what the audience sees and what they feel. He also embraces flexibility as shown in his University of Alberta basketball project, where a planned dual-perspective idea evolved into a tighter, more authentic player-focused narrative. That experience taught him that letting a story change can transform a good idea into a compelling one.
Ani’s love for sports and people comes from seeing how both worlds demand discipline, focus, and balance. He believes athletes and creatives share the same need for consistency and self-awareness, you always know when you’ve slipped, and that pushes you to improve. When he captures sports, he isn’t after the highlight reel; he’s after the human heartbeat underneath it. He looks for the quiet moments, the subtle interactions, and the energy that connects players, coaches, and fans. To him, sports reveal character, unity, and the raw emotion that inspires many of his visual stories. the parts of humanity that remind us why we show up for each other.
Ani’s creative process begins with small sparks from everyday life gestures, feelings, moments that linger. Music and film heavily influence his tone and rhythm, while mood boards and research help shape his direction. Over time, he’s grown from drawing inspiration primarily from art to drawing it from experiences and the way he moves through the world. He believes every creative should sharpen both technical and interpersonal skills: mastering light, camera work, and editing, while also learning to listen, collaborate, and communicate ideas clearly. His GB Cuts experiments taught him the value of documenting progress and creating with whatever tools you have. And when burnout hits, Ani grounds himself in rest, conversation, new experiences, and hobbies like ultimate frisbee and the gym, giving himself the space to return refreshed and inspired.
In conclusion, Ani Akpanusoh’s journey is shaped by emotion, curiosity, community, and a deep respect for the stories that unfold around us. His work proves that creativity thrives when you stay flexible, disciplined, and connected to the people and moments that move you. Through visuals, sports, and thoughtful processes, Ani continues to craft stories that make us feel something real and remind us why creativity matters.
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Episode 26- Long Term Candid Interviews(LTCI)
Today I asked University students about philosophy. I asked them:
1- What's the meaning of life?
2- Are you happy or content?
3- Is full fulfillment attainable?
There were a great deal of amazing answers from all walks of life amongst the students. Some say there is no meaning. Some say it is in the connections we make and more!
I think life is amazing and everyone can find meaning even if that meaning is having no meaning. At the end of the day if you add value to this world then why does it matter how you go about your own philosophy?
Remember you are never alone and you are loved.
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Today's topic is philosophy, specifically about death and purpose.
I asked people:
1- What would you do if you had one week to live?
2-Why people act like they live forever ?
3- Do you tell your loved ones you love them enough?
There were many beautiful answers from all walks of life. We all live our lives differently and there is so much meaning.
Death comes to all of us, so we must make the best out of it. At the end of it all what really matters? We get so caught up in the little things that we forget about family and friends.
I believe the meaning of life is the connections we make. Tell your family and friends how much you love them right now.
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I went on the Royal Caribbean cruise vacation and asked Americans how they can afford such a luxurious vacation.
I asked:
1- What do you do for a living?
2-How much do you make per year?
3- How can you afford a cruise?
There were different people from different backgrounds. There were some heavy hitters, very hard working individuals. A lot of them are enjoying the fruits of their labour.
I am incredibly thankful for the walks of life that agreed to be apart of the interview. Such a beautiful experience. I hope you can all afford a cruise vacation one of these days.
God Bless!
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Jackie Ainsworth is a fashion designer, model, stylist, and director based in Edmonton whose creativity and purpose come from a place of authenticity and heart. His journey in the fashion world is not just about style or aesthetics, it’s about connection, self-expression, and staying true to who you are. Jackie’s story reflects how passion, kindness, and love for one’s craft can turn challenges into opportunities and transform simple beginnings into something powerful.
Helping people, no matter what situation you’re in, is one of Jackie’s core values. Even when life feels difficult, he finds strength in supporting others and celebrating their success. For him, seeing someone else win, especially when he’s had a hand in their growth, brings genuine happiness and motivation. He’s helped friends break into the creative and modeling industries, and their accomplishments have, in turn, inspired and created opportunities for him. Jackie believes that kindness and collaboration will always go further than competition, and that true success is shared, not taken.
When it comes to the art of fashion, Jackie treats it as an emotional language. one that allows him to express who he is and how he sees the world. He creates from passion rather than pressure, focusing on designs that reflect his individuality and vision. Instead of chasing trends or pleasing others, he designs what feels authentic to him. Whether through stitching, fit, or styling, Jackie’s process is about transforming simplicity into something meaningful. He believes that clothes are an extension of personality — that confidence and self-expression bring life to fashion, not the other way around.
For Jackie, doing things simply because you love them is the purest form of creativity. His private sketches and drawings remind him why he started creating in the first place. not for attention, but for peace of mind and fulfillment. When things get hard or passion starts to fade, he grounds himself by remembering that his dreams belong to him alone. His advice to others is to stop waiting for the “perfect moment” and start now. Life is short, and pursuing what you love is the best investment you can make in yourself.
In the end, Jackie’s journey is about faith, faith in yourself, your craft, and the people you uplift along the way. He reminds us that success isn’t about recognition, but about purpose and passion. By leading with love, creativity, and courage, Jackie shows that taking a leap of faith in what you love doesn’t just shape your future. It defines who you truly are.
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I asked people at the University of Alberta what they wanted in a partner. These are the questions:
1- What do you look for in a partner?
2- Where would you to find this partner?
3- How do you know you like someone?
Dating is tough out there. With the abundance in choices, it has left GenZ suffering in relationships.
I hope that we can all better ourselves every day to be there for our future relationships.
There were so many beautiful people today with amazing responses. I hope you guys enjoy!
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Alex Wyner is a driven entrepreneur who started in solar sales before launching his own window cleaning and exterior services business. In just a few months, he built a team, expanded services across Alberta, and generated over $80,000 in revenue. His story is all about hustle, risk-taking, and turning ambition into tangible results. Alex represents the kind of person who takes lessons from every challenge and channels them into growth, proving that discipline and adaptability can build something remarkable from the ground up.
In sales, Alex believes that the difference between a good and great salesperson comes down to connection and adaptability. Through his experience in solar sales, he learned that real selling isn’t about memorizing scripts, it’s about reading people and making them feel understood. He discovered that authenticity is the most powerful sales tool, and that rejection is simply feedback. Every “no” became a stepping stone toward mastering tone, timing, and trust. By learning to listen more than he spoke, Alex turned door-to-door interactions into opportunities for genuine connection, setting the foundation for how he later approached customers and clients in his own business.
When it comes to discipline, Alex credits his success to consistency, structure, and vision. He knows that results take time, so he focuses on the process, hitting daily targets, tracking progress, and refining his approach. Each morning starts with identifying his top priorities, and every evening ends with reflection on what moved him closer to his goals. He sees discipline not as motivation, but as momentum built one decision at a time. By maintaining routines like gym training, brand updates, and goal check-ins, Alex ensures that his energy and focus never drift too far from his long-term vision.
Building a brand, for Alex, meant creating something that looked and felt premium from the very beginning. He treated Scrubby Dubby like more than just a window-cleaning service. it was an identity. From polished visuals and matching uniforms to digital marketing campaigns and strong customer communication, Alex built trust through presentation and care. He combined modern advertising with hands-on service, sending follow-ups and before-and-after photos to every client. That attention to detail helped his company stand out and generate repeat business, turning first-time customers into long-term supporters.
In conclusion, Alex Wyner’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when confidence meets consistency. From knocking doors in solar sales to leading a thriving Alberta-based brand, he’s shown that success doesn’t come from luck but from discipline, empathy, and long-term vision. His story reminds us that building something meaningful starts with connecting deeply, working relentlessly, and believing that every small action compounds into lasting results.
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Today I went to the River Edge Ultra to ask Ultra Marathoners why they do this to themselves. I asked them:
1. What's the farthest distance you have ran and what are you running today?
2. Why do you to this to yourself?
3. What do you tell yourself amidst the pain?
Running an ultra marathon can be extremely painful, yet these people go above and beyond their limits.
It proves that anything is possible and we are all capable of so much more than we think.
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Kayla Zhang is a prominent individual in Lolita Fashion. Many have seen her in public and are captivated by her bravery and authenticity. She wears what is true to her and that happens to be Lolita Fashion. Her elegance and confidence in expressing herself through her style have made her a recognizable figure, not just for her outfits but for the message she embodies, staying true to oneself regardless of social expectations. In this conversation, we explore how Kayla integrates Lolita fashion into her daily life, embraces it as part of her identity, and helps others discover confidence through creativity and community.
Kayla’s decision to wear alternative fashion daily stems from a deep sense of self-expression and authenticity. What began as a love for Lolita fashion on special occasions evolved into a personal commitment to live in alignment with who she truly is. She adapts her wardrobe to all occasions and seasons, sheer blouses and hoop skirts in the summer, fleece-lined tights and heeled boots in the winter, and Lolita-adjacent styles for work or lounge wear. Though she has encountered stereotypical assumptions about her appearance, she remains confident, knowing her wardrobe reflects her truest self. Each morning, simply looking at her closet reminds her that she made the right choice to live unapologetically.
For Kayla, being a Lifestyle Lolita is about much more than fashion, it’s a philosophy and a way of being. Every detail of her world, from how she decorates her room to how she spends her time, reflects the aesthetic and spirit of Lolita culture. She participates in tea parties and photoshoots, connecting with others who share the same appreciation for creativity, modesty, and self-expression. Kayla also highlights Lolita fashion’s feminist roots, emphasizing how it challenges the sexualization of women and redefines femininity on one’s own terms. To her, Lolita fashion is not just pretty clothing. it’s a quiet form of resistance against conformity and a celebration of individuality.
Kayla believes that fashion and identity are deeply intertwined. Her love for pink and ornate coordination harks back to her childhood, a time when she freely expressed femininity without fear of judgment. As she grew older, she briefly distanced herself from that softness, feeling pressured to tone it down to be taken seriously. Reconnecting with Lolita fashion allowed her to reclaim that part of herself unapologetically. Now, she embraces the idea that anyone who judges based on appearance alone is not worth impressing. Through rituals like outfit coordination, following brand releases, and staying active in the Lolita community, she stays grounded and inspired, even during busy or stressful times.
When it comes to helping newcomers, Kayla encourages patience, curiosity, and courage. She reminds beginners that people are often kinder than they expect, and over time, the fear of standing out fades into empowerment. Standing out, she emphasizes, is the point, it’s an act of self-celebration. She advises newcomers to start with Lolita-adjacent pieces, research trusted brands, and avoid replicas. Most importantly, she believes the community can grow stronger by creating accessible guides to the culture’s terminology, brands, and etiquette so everyone can feel welcomed and informed.
In conclusion, Kayla Zhang’s approach to Lolita fashion is a testament to authenticity, courage, and creativity. Her journey reflects more than a love for aesthetic, It's about reclaiming identity, rejecting conformity, and inspiring others to do the same. Through her daily commitment to living authentically, she reminds us that true beauty lies in self-acceptance and the confidence to stand out in a world that often asks us to blend in.
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I went to the Alberta Legislature in Edmonton to speak directly with teachers, the ones on the front lines of our education system. I wanted to understand what they’ve been going through over the past few years: the growing class sizes, the lack of resources, and the emotional toll of trying to give 100% in a system that often gives them so little in return.
Many of these teachers aren’t just fighting for better working conditions, they’re fighting for their students’ futures. They care deeply about every child who walks into their classroom, and they continue to show up, even when it feels impossible.
Education isn’t just about textbooks and tests, it’s about shaping hearts, minds, and futures. When we fail our teachers, we fail our kids. And when we fail our kids, we fail our future. It’s time to listen. It’s time to act.
I believe there’s hope. I believe that when we start prioritizing teachers, giving them the support, respect, and resources they need, the ripple effect will change everything for the better. The kids are our future, and they deserve the very best we can give.
Long Term Candid Interviews Ep.21
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Andrew Knack brings to the mayoral race a record of 12 years on Edmonton’s city council and a campaign rooted in putting “everyday Edmontonians” first. He positions his platform around three key priorities: affordability, safety and smart growth, arguing that Edmonton is at a moment where growth must deliver benefits rather than burdens. As you explore his plans for housing, affordability and safety, you’ll be probing how he translates that broad vision into concrete strategies.
Regarding safety, Knack frames the issues of homelessness, mental health and addictions as root causes of public-safety problems that go beyond policing alone, he sees a role for the city in partnership with the province and federal government to address these underlying issues, not simply enforcement. At the same time, he emphasises a balanced approach that combines enforcement, better emergency services and community-based prevention initiatives (such as lighting, neighbourhood programs and violence-prevention) rather than relying entirely on more police. He also stresses that safety must be felt everywhere across Edmonton including suburban and lower-income areas not just in the downtown core or affluent neighbourhoods.
When it comes to housing, Knack emphasises that Edmonton’s rapid growth demands proactive responses he points to infill, transit-oriented development and a willingness to use city assets and partnerships rather than leave housing supply to market forces alone. On displacement he acknowledges the risk in neighbourhoods undergoing redevelopment and signals that protecting long-time residents means combining incentives for developers with protections for current occupants and the use of city-owned land to ensure affordability. While he has not laid out a fully detailed three-point blueprint in his publicly available materials, his emphasis is on mixed-use, transit-linked development and safeguarding community amenities so that affordable housing isn’t isolated but embedded within sustainable neighbourhoods.
On affordability, Knack argues that rising costs in property taxes, utilities and services must be tackled through disciplined budgeting, rather than reflexive tax increases. He commits to protecting core services while looking for waste, procurement reform and better contract oversight as levers to keep cost pressures down. He also links infrastructure and amenity investment, such as transit, parks and rec centres with cost risk for existing residents, and signals he wants to ensure that growth-driven investments do not inadvertently drive up rents or living costs for those already in the city.
In sum, Knack’s candidacy is built on the promise of independent leadership focused on delivering for “everyday Edmontonians” rather than big developers or partisan interests. His focus areas: housing, affordability and safety are interconnected: more affordable housing reduces cost pressures; disciplined budgeting frees up capacity for services; and stronger communities help improve safety outcomes. The interview will test how detailed his proposed actions are and how he plans to move from vision to delivery. His success in the mayoral race will hinge not only on his ideas, but on how convincingly he articulates the “how” behind them.
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Long Term Candid Interviews(LTCI) 20
Today I asked students at the University of Alberta:
1. What program are you & How much does your degree cost?
2. What do you plan to do to pay for your degree?
3. What are you most excited and scared of for your financial future?
There were people from different programs who had high hopes and fears.
Finance is a massive part of why we go to post-secondary. Is it really worth it?
Find out in today's episode!! Much love.
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Othaeron Ross is a University of Alberta student and local creative whose work reflects a deep connection between imagination, art, and community. From childhood, his curiosity and playful spirit drove him to explore different creative avenues, whether through storytelling, visual art, or digital expression. Over time, creativity became not just a passion but a way to reconnect with the freedom and authenticity of his younger self. Through art, he expresses ideas and emotions that transcend words, strengthening his connection to both himself and others while contributing to Edmonton’s growing creative community.
For Othaeron, the creative arts are more than personal expression they are a bridge that unites people. He believes challenges and creative blocks are natural parts of the process, opportunities to step back, reflect, and rebuild stronger ideas. Collaboration fuels his passion; seeing videographers, actors, and producers in Edmonton come together reminds him of the power of art to create unity. To him, creativity thrives when people take risks, stay curious, and uplift one another. That shared energy builds communities that are not only vibrant but unstoppable.
Balancing life as a student, creator, and worker requires discipline and adaptability. Othaeron maintains balance by sticking to routines that give structure to his days, making time for school, the gym, and creative projects. Yet even with structure, life can feel overwhelming. He acknowledges that managing priorities is an ongoing process, especially as he approaches graduation and faces new responsibilities. For him, balance isn’t about splitting time equally; it’s about putting energy where it matters most. True balance means prioritizing growth, purpose, and the things that move you closer to your goals.
When it comes to chasing dreams, Othaeron’s mission is simple yet profound to leave a lasting impression through art that stands the test of time. Inspired by the introspection of Kendrick Lamar’s lyrics, he aims to create something immortal, something that tells his story long after he’s gone. His motivation comes from his friends—fellow dreamers whose dedication pushes him to work harder. He believes that surrounding yourself with passionate people keeps your fire alive. His advice to others is to start with what you have, believe in your own vision, and remember that no dream is too small when it’s your own. Whether using a makeshift tripod or collaborating with peers, what matters most is the courage to begin and the persistence to keep going.
In essence, Othaeron Ross reminds us that creativity, balance, and dreams are deeply intertwined. Through his journey, he shows that fulfillment doesn’t come from perfection but from persistence, the willingness to create, to adjust, and to keep striving toward something meaningful. His story is a testament to the power of imagination and community, proving that when passion meets purpose, even the smallest efforts can leave an enduring legacy.
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Long Term Candid Interviews 19
Today I went to a Filipino event in Edmonton and asked Filipinos:
1. What does culture mean to them?
2. How do you stay connected your culture?
3. What is one thing you are proud of being Filipino?
As a Filipino myself, it is very tough to maintain culture identity in Canada. However, events like these and interacting with other Filipinos helps me stay connected to my roots and uplift Filipino values.
I hope you guys find this video helpful and gain some knowledge about Filipinos.
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Kyle Kasawski is the MLA for Sherwood Park and serves as Alberta’s Shadow Minister for Municipal Affairs. With a deep commitment to community collaboration and civic engagement, he brings experience from both the public and private sectors into his political work. His passion for education, transparency, and local connection defines his approach to leadership, always seeking to strengthen trust between citizens, schools, and local governments through meaningful dialogue and accountability.
When discussing Sherwood Park and community life, Kyle highlights the region’s unique balance between rural and urban cooperation. He emphasizes the power of collaboration among nonprofits, local organizations, and residents to keep Sherwood Park vibrant and inclusive. Through programs in sports and recreation, he believes people can connect on a human level, quoting Plato: “You can learn more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation.” For Kyle, these shared spaces and activities build the empathy and trust that sustain a healthy community.
On investing in K–12 education, Kyle stresses that the future depends on how we invest in young citizens today. He believes a well-funded education system leads to more productive, resilient, and innovative individuals. Addressing disparities between private and public funding, he points out the need to make education accessible and supportive for all, whether through tutoring, mental health supports, or safe community spaces. Kyle also underlines the importance of nurturing service-mindedness and social connection in schools, reminding us that “we are social animals” who thrive through relationships and shared learning.
In the realm of municipal affairs and elections, Kyle acknowledges the challenges of maintaining transparency and trust. He insists that democracy only functions when citizens believe in the integrity of their local systems. To combat corruption, he advocates for stronger guardrails on gifts to elected officials, expanded powers for the Ethics Commissioner, and increased authority for the Auditor General to investigate misconduct. For Kyle, these reforms are essential to ensuring that public institutions remain accountable and credible.
In conclusion, Kyle Kasawski’s vision for Alberta centers on collaboration, integrity, and education. Whether he’s discussing Sherwood Park’s evolving identity, the value of investing in youth, or the need for transparent governance, his message remains consistent: a strong, informed, and connected community is the foundation for a thriving future.
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Long Term Candid Interviews(LTCI) 18
Today I had a chance to interview some of the mayor candidates in Edmonton after their debate.
I asked them:
1. What motivates them to run for mayor?
2. Why should people vote for them?
3. How to make Public Transit safer for us?
4. Words of Encouragement for the next generation?
Do not forget to vote on October 20th.
Exercise your right to vote!
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Michael Janz is a progressive politician and current Edmonton City Councillor for the Whyte Ave, U of A, and Southgate area called Ward papastew (phonetic: Papa Stay Oh), elected in 2021. He’s known for his lifelong advocacy for students, public education, affordable housing, and equitable city policies, often aligning with the values of the New Democratic Party. With nearly two decades of public service experience from the University of Alberta Students’ Union President to School Trustee to City Councillor. Michael brings a deep understanding of community-building and social change. His work centers on ensuring that Edmonton becomes not just a functional city, but a compassionate one where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
When speaking about his philosophy and approach to public service, Michael emphasizes his upbringing rooted in social justice and faith, which shaped his belief that meaningful change happens from the bottom up, not the top down. His career reflects a consistent drive to improve every community he’s part of, whether that’s residence life at the U of A, neighbourhood associations, or city hall. For Michael, progressive politics means being bold in the face of compromise, knowing that “the fight is the point.” His experiences working in education, youth programs, and libraries have also reinforced one of his guiding principles: that there’s no such thing as “other people’s children” and that collective health: social, physical, and emotional is always public health.
In discussing municipal elections, housing, and affordability, Michael underscores how city politics affect our everyday lives more than many realize. Decisions made at city hall determine how affordable our housing and transportation costs are two of the biggest expenses in life. He believes that by creating more housing choices in more areas and improving public transit, the city can reduce financial stress on students and working families. Michael also highlights the importance of cooperative housing, renter protections, and the understanding that stability begins with a roof over your head. Without secure housing, every other problem, from education to health, only worsens.
Finally, when it comes to loving your city through transit, parks, and student life, Michael champions the idea that Edmonton should be a place where people not only live but feel connected. Reliable and safe public transit is critical, especially for students who depend on it daily. He believes investment in green spaces, parks, dog runs, river valley trails, and small functional community hubs fosters not only recreation but belonging. Programs like student leisure access passes reflect his vision of inclusivity and mental well-being, allowing young people to engage with the city’s cultural, artistic, and natural spaces. For Michael, loving your city means feeling proud of where you live and ensuring that everyone, regardless of income, can share in that pride.
In conclusion, Michael Janz’s work and worldview reflect a deep belief in collective care, courage in policymaking, and the power of community-driven progress. Through his efforts in education, housing, and civic life, he continues to remind Edmontonians that building a city worth loving takes both heart and action and that lasting change always begins at the local level.
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Long Term Candid Interviews #17
Today I went to Whyte Ave in Edmonton to ask about Religion.
1. Do you Believe in God or not? Why?
2. Do you have hope for the future?
3. What do you think happens after we die?
There were many interesting answers revolving around faith, religion and more.
At the end of the day it doesn't matter what you believe in. As long as you are a good person and provide value to the world then do what makes you a better person.
For me, I operate better as Christian so that is the path that I take, but I do not judge anyone else that doesn't believe or believes in a different religion.
There are many ways to empower your mind, body and soul!
God Bless!
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I went to the University of Alberta to ask students these three questions about mental health:
1- How do you manage your mental health?
2- How would you define student like balance?
3- What's one piece advice you would give to new students?
There were many wonderful answers from all backgrounds and programs. It's super dope to see students with different strategies on how to go about calming themselves down and regulating their nervous system.
I am incredibly thankful to listen to these beautiful people. Much love!
It's important to keep our mental health in check because what's the point of it all if we are not fulfilled?
Find out in this episode on how you can optimize your mental health
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Today I asked people basic finance questions in Edmonton:
1- What do you do for a living?
2- How much do you make per year?
3- Can you afford your lifestyle?
Many people are struggling, it seems. GenZ which were the majority of the people that participated in the interviews have to live with their parents because it's too expensive to live alone.
It is still very cool for people to go out and still have fun and let loose despite the tumultuous times.
I pray that Canadians can afford basic living necessities and prosper in the future. I am immensely hopeful! Also money ain't everything haha
There are some that are doing amazing, affording more than their basic necessities. Find out in this episode!
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