Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Former National Level Speed Skater, Nutrition Consultant, Leadership Coach, Founder of the Branch Out Neurological Foundation, and Health Lead and Head of Experience at Thin Air Labs, Crystal Phillips joins the guys today to discuss how the abrupt halt of her elite speed skating career due to a multiple sclerosis diagnosis ultimately led to her highly successful career in neurotherapy and venture capital. Crystal shares why she passionate about helping other people heal from neurological disorders through an entirely new field of neuroscience research focused on non-pharmaceutical approaches to treatment. Crystal’s work has earned her the wide acclaim, including being named one of 18 Canadian change makers by CBC Canada to celebrate Canada’s 150th, she made the Top 30 Under 30 by Explore Magazine in 2012 and Top 40 Under 40 by Avenue Calgary Magazine in 2016.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Hafiz introduces Crystal, who just got back from a trip to Africa!
[2:43] Crystal’s upbringing as a speed skater in a country town outside of Alberta.
[3:47] The positive influence that speed skating continues to have on Crystal’s life. “It’s always a part of me.”
[5:15] How overcoming multiple sclerosis led her to working with Branch Out, including raising over three million dollars to help fund neurological research.
[9:59] The community that helped Crystal get back on her feet and keep going through her illness. “I’m a sponge for inspiration.”
[13:35] Success stories from her start-up ventures as a part of Branch Out.
[15:33] Crystal’s criteria for making big decisions on what companies to invest in. “It’s all about the founder and the team.”
[17:36] Crystal’s holistic, three-point approach to her wellness regimen.
[22:20] What brings Crystal joy.
[23:59] How she manages to keep herself accountable.
[25:09] Crystal’s process for dealing with failure.
[26:35] The advice that Crystal may (or may not) give her younger self. “I also myself as a younger self.” And why she would highlight values to a younger person who is looking for guidance.
[32:01] Crystal shares the five values that guide her life.
[33:46] Why Crystal feels that her purpose is to find and promote other people’s strengths.
[37:25] The game changing advice that Crystal’s speed skating coach gave to her.
[42:49] How you can support Crystal and Branch Out!
Connect with Crystal and support her work:
Branch Out Neurological Foundation: https://www.branchoutfoundation.com/
Thin Air Labs: https://www.thinairlabs.ca/
LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/crystal-phillips-7296b932
IG: https://www.instagram.com/crystalpatches/?hl=en
Twitter: https://twitter.com/crystalpatches?lang=en
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies