We're on a mission to level-up our lives, in all ways. This lifestyle podcast is how we learn.
We discover topics that are totally new to us, diving deeper on stuff we like, and finding inspiration from people on unique paths (while trying to befriend all our guests!).
We share those conversations with you, bringing joy, inspiration, and new discoveries every Thursday.
Hosted by Ashley Kielbratowski & Sarah Murphy. Learn more at rivalandqueen.com.
The Chocolate Chip Cookie Challenge is back in 2023!
Guest judges, Andy Hay and Quake Matthews join us to find the best cookie in Halifax. We taste a whopping 21 cookies this year. In a huge upset - we have a new #1.
Find out who ranks 1, 2, and 3.
Show notes:
Connect with Andy Hay at Andy's East Coast Kitchen: @andyseastcoastkitchen_
theeastcoastkitchen.com
Connect with Quake Matthews: @quakematthews
Listen to Quake's new EP with Young Buck: Learn As I Go
Chat with us & connect @rivalandqueen
Thank you to all our cookie contestants!
Who said cookies?? It’s been a hot minute but we are back! We have lots to catch you up on.
This week we fast-forwarded to prepping for the holidays and Sarah’s ultimate Christmas trip. And of course how we are doing fall fashion, why we buy and use certain products, AND we are planning the legendary cookie-tasting episode. Stay tuned for more and our special guests!
Follow Sarah’s new podcast, Reconnect & Awaken
Living Libations Skincare
Connect with us and chat on Instagram @rivalandqueen
Hello, summertime, and hello thong bikinis! Yes, that’s right, we weigh in on Gen-Zers' rediscovering things that we Millennials already consider in style or popular, like thong bikinis. Or are we just old?
Summer also has us thinking about our long locks of hair and proper hair hydration. We spontaneously dive into our own hair issues. According to astrology, this is also meant to be the “summer of love” and let me tell you, we are already feeling the summer love vibes!
Thank you for listening. Subscribe & follow us on all social media channels @rivalandqueen.
We’ve got a proper besties catch-up! We’ve been missing you and wanted to hop back on the mic for a fun episode.
We’ve got:
Keep connected with us on social: @rivalandqueen
We love you!
Ash & Sarah
It’s hard to believe but it’s our final episode of 2022. This week we reflect on the last year and look forward to 2023! We share what’s been going on the last few months and share our life updates. It wouldn’t be a December R&Q episode without talking about our holiday excitement and gift guide must haves!
See you in 2023, Happy Holidays!
Love Ash & Sarah
Get our gift guide at https://www.instagram.com/rivalandqueen/
Our last episode of season 3! We're signing off for summer break so we can soak up all the sunshine and beach days.
More weddings & dresses
Is Sarah going to Europe?
Our monthly faves and more!
We'll be back in September.
Notes:
Annabelle Skinny Brow Liner
The Cure Skincare Body Serum
More at rivalandqueen.com
Ash & Sarah are back for another Thursday episode! This week's episode is about:
Notes:
Dating terms you need to know by Refinery 29
Plus, a bonus shout-out to the Halifax Wanderers. We love them - check out their upcoming home games.
More at rivalandqueen.com
Contest winner Lana MacKinnon-Haliburton joins us for popcorn & LÜVO’s!
Lana is a long-time fan of the podcast and we dive right into her personal icks when it comes to fashion and life in general.
We also talk about nip slip problems, crocs, reality tv, her MEME QUEEN status, and also the new IG notes feature.
So many polls coming from this episode.
Connect with Lana: @lanamachali
Thank you to LUVO Wines for sponsoring this episode. Get your LUVO at luvolife.ca.
More at rivalandqueen.com
This week Sarah’s energy is high and she’s ready for summer fun so we dive into our summer bucket list, adult creativity, teenage heartthrobs, and who we would be if we were a villain.
Don't forget to sign up for our golf tournament on July 15th in support of Adsum House for Women and Children
www.rivalandqueen.com/golf
Connect with us: @rivalandqueen
This week we're talking about women's health, our bodies and about abortion. We get into Roe v. Wade being overturned, access to abortion in Canada, and the gaps in our own healthcare experiences and the emotional stress tied to that.
We also cover:
Notes:
More at rivalandqueen.com
Thanks to LUVO wines for sponsoring this episode. Get your LUVO at luvolife.ca
This week we are sharing some ick stories from our listeners and what makes us feel the dreaded ick too. Also wedding and summer fashion and our June faves! * Links & Luau Women's Charity Golf Tournament July 15th * Nominate R&Q for The Best of Halifax * Half Baked Harvest Tahini Chocolate Chip Cookie
More at rivalandqueen.com
This week we're joined by Bangs, an all-star spin instructor, creative director at R Studios, life coach & so much more.
New-ish to the east coast, she stands out with her confidence, high-energy, unreal style & famous social media rants that we LOVE.
We talk about:
Connect with Bangs:
@bangsandabun on Instagram
Join her newsletter: themurmuration.substack.com
Her coaching mybigboldjuicylife.com
Ride with her at rstudios.co
More at rivalandqueen.com
This week we get to know each other a little better and re-introduce ourselves. Ash & Sarah each answer 30 questions and a fun little rapid-fire.
Now we're left wondering what are karaoke duet should be?
Connect with us on Instagram & TikTok @rivalandqueen.
More are https://www.rivalandqueen.com/
This week we share some details on the new format for Rival & Queen. * We discovered lubricated tampons & talk other period products * The ULTIMATE life hack for candles that's changed our lives * Should we ship beer to the US for Chex Mix? * The revival of the Toothy Moose
Notes:
wearemarlow.com
albenlanecandleco.com
More at rivalandqueen.com
We're back for a second all talk to catch up on so many fun topics! * Ash lost her tooth! * Our laissez-faire/forgetful travel styles * Ash's birthday weekend in Montreal * Best place to meet men * Monthly faves!
Thanks to LUVO wines for sponsoring this episode. Get your LUVO at luvolife.ca
More at rivalandqueen.com
We were so happy to welcome back Connie McInnes to the podcast. Connie is the creator of R Studios, a group of fitness studios that are revolutionizing why you move. We talk about: * The growth of R Studios from 1 to 6 spaces * Rest, the newest R Studios space * Personal growth and how Connie learns and pushes herself * Joining a running group to push her limits * Authenticity and sharing the true journey
Connie also shares some big news at the end of this episode! Connect with Connie:
@theconniemae
@rstudiosns
rstudios.co
Ashley has been Nominated for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada’s (LLSC’s) Women of the Year Award.
Help Ashley raise money or donate here!
This week we've teamed up with Pop Pod Weekly hosts, Anna & Bekah to dive into our favourite pop culture moments!
Listen to Pop Pod Weekly every Monday wherever you get your podcasts!
Connect on TikTok and Instagram: @poppodweekly
More at rivalandqueen.com
We are back with another All Talk episode!
This week Ash & Sarah dive into:
And more fun topics!
Connect with us on Instagram: @rivalandqueen
More at rivalandqueen.com
Sarah Kikuchi was introduced to Ashley during her efforts to raise money for Man & Woman of the Year which is an intense 10-week fundraising competition taking place in cities across Canada for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada (LLSC). Sarah’s story and perspective is eye-opening. She is someone who at a very young age has had to undergo a lot of personal, emotional, and physical trauma after being diagnosed with cancer in her 20’s, ending her marriage during her treatments, and ultimately realizing what she needs and wants in her life. Sarah is now healthy, well, and very pregnant!
Follow her: @sarahmkikuchi
To support Ashley and the LLSC fundraiser visit: https://secure.llscanada.org/site/TR/MWOY/Atlantic?px=1247962&pg=personal&fr_id=1310
Thank you to LUVO wines for sponsoring this episode. LUVO's Piquette + Peach & Piquette + Berry are now available! Get yours in liquor stores across Nova Scotia or online at luvolife.ca. More at rivalandqueen.com
This week we're joined by Duane Jones, the designer and founder of Art Pays Me, a lifestyle clothing brand and podcast.
We talk about:
Connect with Duane & Art Pays Me:
@artpaysme
artpaysme.com
Check out Halifax Burger Bash April 28-May 7 burgerbash.ca
LUVO wines new Piquette + Peach & Piquette + Berry are now available. Get yours at luvolife.ca
More at rivalandqueen.com
We are back from Spring Break!
This week we get to know Lauryn and Madi, the podcasters behind The Weekend Roundup - part of the BNV Media family. Every Sunday they break down their best stories from the weekend - think dating, sex lives & funny encounters.
We chat about:
Listen to The Weekend Roundup!
Check out Halifax Burger Bash April 28-May 7 burgerbash.ca
LUVO wines new Piquette + Peach & Piquette + Berry are now available. Get yours at luvolife.ca
More at rivalandqueen.com
ALL TALK MARCH! This month we dive into:
Ashley has been Nominated for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada's Woman of the Year Award.
Help Ashley raise money! Support her here
Have a mystical, magical March! We’re on Spring Break until April 16th. SEE YOU THEN!
More at rivalandqueen.com
Thanks to Paradigm Orthodontics for sponsoring this episode. Book your consult: paradigmsmile.com
This week we're joined by Ceilidh Sutherland, Katie Tower, and Natalie Rosen, the creators behind Fawn - soon to be Halifax's newest restaurant.
We chat about:
Fawn opens Spring 2022 in Halifax.
Learn more about their membership program fawnresto@gmail.com
Connect:
fieldguidehfx.com
@fieldguidehfx
@fawnresto
More at rivalandqueen.com
Thank you to LUVO Wines for sponsoring this episode. LUVO is our FAVE wine in a can. Get your LUVO at luvolife.ca.
This week we have Max Emerson Taylor joining us. He’s one half of Murray + Taylor Digital. Max got started in the digital media through TikTok, as he quickly rose to TikTok fame. We talk about:
Connect with Max:
@maxemersontaylor on TikTok, Instagram
murraytaylordigital.ca/
More at rivalandqueen.com
This week we're joined by Dr. Meredith Ralston to talk about women's sexual empowerment and the unfinished sexual revolution. Meredith is a professor from Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax. We get into: * Sexual double-standards * How women police themselves to protect their image * Sex education and its focus on abstinence * The unfinished sexual revolution * The rise of women’s pleasure and orgasm equality
This episode times perfectly for International Women's Day next week!
Connect:
@MeredithRalston on Twitter
http://www.meredithralston.com/
Get her book: Slut-Shaming, Whorephobia, and the Unfinished Sexual Revolution
Notes:
International Women's Day episode:
74. The Power of Our Voices - Empowering Female Podcasters
The Goop Lab Episode: The Pleasure is Ours
This month's All Talk is extra fun. We get into our take on the Kanye, Pete, Kim situation (one of us is poorly informed); a round of questions from some of our listeners; our monthly faves & some dating advice; and guacamole talk. Notes:
JE Matchmaking
Bar Sofia Restaurant in Halifax
The Cure Skincare, Boosting Mist
More at rivalandqueen.com
Ryan Williams, the founder of Unbound Media, is our guest this week. We recorded this episode after a fun day of taking photos & seeing Ryan in his element. This episode is all about the drive and vision Ryan brings to his new business. We cover: * Growing from Ryan Williams Photography to creating a business bigger than himself * Being unbound * Doing work you care about * The energy Ryan brings to his work and his clients * Our photoshoot experience * His growth mindset, habits, and lessons learned
Connect with Ryan: Online at unboundmedia.co Instagram at @unboundmedia.co @iamryanwilliams Notes: JE Matchmaking by Jean-eva Dickie Astrology reading by Sacred Starlight Connect with Ryan Online at unboundmedia.co
Instagram at @unboundmedia.co
@iamryanwilliams
This week we're joined by Johanna Galipeau (also known as Joey), the owner behind Sweet Pea Boutique - Halifax's sweetest dress shop.
Celebrating 15 years of Sweet Pea, we look back on the personal experiences behind Joey's business. We talk about dropping out of university, opening Sweet Pea at the age of 19, periods of growth & downsizing, and the honest experience of navigating divorce alongside her business.
This is a beautiful episode about being true to your personal desires, and designing a life and business around that.
Connect with Joey:
Shop online at sweetpeahalifax.com
@sweetpeahalifax
More at rivalandqueen.com
Our Astrology episode with Rebekah is 77. Sacred Starlight: Astrology with Rebekah
The episode everyone has been waiting for - who will be crowned the BEST chocolate chip cookie in Halifax? Listen to find out! We've brought in two special tasters to help us with this challenge: Nicole Cameron and Quake Matthews. Together we taste 12 cookies back to back to find the best of the best! This episode has it all; cookies, to convoys, to spirit animals. Enjoy the cookie commentary!
Here are the cookie contestants:
Luke's Small Baked Goods
Envie
Steve-O-Reno's
Jane's Next Door
Bliss Caffeine Bar
Local Jo
East Coast Bakery
Tea Time Treats
The Mellow Mug
Dilly Dally
Rousseau
Weird Harbour
Thanks to LUVO Wines for sponsoring this episode. LUVO is our fave wine in a can! Get yours at luvolife.ca
Connect with us: rivalandqueen.com
@rivalandqueen
Sylvia Beirnes and Jonathan Torrens are the duo behind Canadian Content Studios (CCS), the creators of the show Who Do You Think I Am? airing on CBC, Vollies airing on Bell, and the Your Two Cents Podcast.
They started CCS because they wanted to change how content is made and make sure the projects they really cared about came to life. In this episode, we talk about how Sylvia & Jonathan met, the TV industry and how projects are made, and about bringing the fun (and snacks) into their everyday work.
Ps. We definitely have big Street Cents & Jonovision nostalgia moments in this episode!
Connect with Sylvia & Jonathan:
canadiancontentstudios.com
@canadiancontentstudios
@sylviabeirnes
@torrensjonathan on Twitter
Thank you to Paradigm Orthodontics for sponsoring this episode! Visit paradigmsmile.com to learn more about Invisalign options. Mention Rival & Queen for a free consult.
More at rivalandqueen.com
It’s our January All Talk Edition! Okay, we have so much to talk about. We both spent time isolating (sadly apart) with Covid and are now ready to get back to normal life.
We recap what TV shows, movies, books and things we did during our time at home, what foods we have been eating and talk about our famous cookie tasting episode coming up!
Like every All Talk, we cover our favourite song, product and food.
More at rivalandqueen.com
It’s our January All Talk Edition! Okay, we have so much to talk about. We both spent time isolating (sadly apart) with Covid and are now ready to get back to normal life.
We recap what TV shows, movies, books and things we did during our time at home, what foods we have been eating and talk about our famous cookie tasting episode coming up!
Like every All Talk, we cover our favourite song, product and food.
More at rivalandqueen.com
We had the most fun recording this week's episode with Allie Beckwith! Allie is an entrepreneur, artist, photographer, and house-flipper based in Saint John, NB.
We learn all about how her crew neck company Beck&Boyd started - from Frenchy’s to accidental business gone wild. We talk about how she became an entrepreneur, why sharing the process of creation led to more sales of her artwork, how she structures her day for the ultimate creative flow, and we go deep on the art and science of napping.
JOIN IN ON THE FUN.
Connect with Allie:
@beckandboyd
@alliebeckwith
https://alliebeckwith.com/
Thanks to Paradigm Orthodontics for sponsoring this ep. Learn more about Paradigm and if Invisalign could be a fit for you at paradigmsmile.com.
Mention Rival & Queen for a free consultation!
More at rivalandqueen.com
Our favorite All Talk of the year... the holiday edition in Ashley's house! We're on a holiday high this episode:
Have a wonderful holiday & happy new year! We'll be back on January 13, 2022.
Thanks to Couryah for sponsoring this episode. They've got on-demand delivery of groceries, restaurants & more.
For free delivery in Halifax, use promo code: RIVAL couryah.com
Connect: @rivalandqueen on Instagram
More at rivalandqueen.com
This week we have Solitha Shortte, the creator behind Soli Productions, joining us.
Solitha is a model and model coach, turned agent, and production manager. We learn all about her journey to Canada from Saint Vincent, how she became an agent and grew her business from there. We talk about beauty standards, what she's doing to break that mold, and her scholarship program, Atlantic Scholarship.
Diversity is the soul of Soli Productions. Solitha started her business to support models that didn't fit the stereotypical model look, but had tons of talent. She represents a diverse group of models, from every ethnicity and background.
Connect with Solitha:
@soliinc.productions
@ahtilos_model on Instagram
https://soliproductions.com/
http://www.atlanticscholarship.com/
Thanks to Couryah for sponsoring this episode. Couryah is an on-demand delivery platform in Halifax - groceries, restaurants, drug stores, and more delivered to your door! Use code RIVAL for free delivery. couryah.com More at rivalandqueen.com
Jodi Guthro is living a songwriter's dream right now. A song she co-wrote with her brother and Walker Hayes has been climbing the Billboard 100 chart.U Gurl with Walker Hayes was at #24 when we recorded this!
We talk to Jodi about her experiences as a singer and songwriter, being in a very musical family, her love of songwriting, and how she’s always getting pulled back into the industry. We also get into the very first song she wrote at 8 years old, finding her muse and all things Kacey Musgraves, Christmas & Tim Biebs!
Connect with Jodi: @jodi.guthro
Listen to Jodi on Spotify
More at rivalandqueen.com
Thank to LUVO Wines for sponsoring this episode. Get your LUVO at luvolife.ca
It’s November All Talk!
This week we have a craving to hit the movies to see Spencer, Princess Diana’s story and House of Gucci. We talk about Ash’s Invisalign journey she is about to start, we also get into how we met, our careers and answer a few questions from our listeners!
With the holidays just around the corner, we teamed up with The Halifax Shopping Centre to bring you our favourite things to shop this holiday season at HSC.
Download the GetintheLoop App and visit the mall 6 times between now and December 31st and scan the QR code located near the gift guides to receive a FREE $20 gift card!
Local holiday decor: https://thornbloom.com/
Paradigm Orthodontics: https://paradigmsmile.com/
The Halifax Shopping Centre: https://halifaxshoppingcentre.com/promotions
R&Q Ask Us Anything https://www.rivalandqueen.com/askusanything
This week we’ve got two of the brothers behind Dormie Workshop in the studio, Todd & Jeff Bishop. Dormie creates premium leather golf headcovers, and are known for their incredible designs.
The guys share their story from golf pros to entrepreneurs, how Dormie started in a woman’s living room and has grown into a recognized brand that collaborates with groups like the PGA, the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Raptors, and some of the top golfers in the world. Plus, we get lots of stories from the green.
Connect:
@dormieworkshop on Instagram
dormieworkshop.com
The Samurai Headcover
Thanks to LUVO Wines for sponsoring this episode! Get your LUVO at luvolife.ca.
Thanks for listening! More at rivalandqueen.com
Tracy Bell is a reporter turned entrepreneur after experiencing a family health scare that got her and her husband focused on the power of antioxidants. Millennia TEA is the world's first un-dried tea. It's 100% organic, washed, and flash-frozen to ensure the tea remains in its fullest, most beneficial form. In this episode we covered: * How Millennia TEA began * What it’s like working in the tea business and the tea mafia * How antioxidants work, and the benefits of them * Why Millennia TEA is different than other teas
Learn more: https://millenniatea.com/ Connect with Millennia TEA on Instagram: @millennia_tea More at rivalandqueen.com If you like this episode, please leave a review & subscribe!
We were already Wanderers fans, but now we're even BIGGER fans and have favourite players.
In this episode, we have a blast getting to know 2 of the Wanderers, Stefan Karajovanovic and Cory Bent.
We dive into:
Good luck to the team in their last home game this season!
Connect with The Wanderers:
@hfxwanderersfc
hfxwanderersfc.canpl.ca
Stef: @stefkarajo39
Cory: @corylb.jpg
More at rivalandqueen.com
We are FIRED up today. We're fresh off a girls' weekend with lots to talk about like our fall getaway, trying rum & cokes, and Halloween. We go into our favorite Halloween movies, apple bobbing, costume ideas and new monthly faves.
Check out the upcoming Rise Up, Shine Up event we're attending on November 13. Details here!
Thanks to Luvo Wines for sponsoring this episode! Get your Luvo at luvolife.ca
This week we’re joined by Tareq Hadhad, founder of Peace by Chocolate. Born and raised in Damascus, Syria his family was forced to flee their home country to escape the war.
Tareq shares his family’s story, and how they eventually made their way to Antigonish, NS. He talks about their experience of going from prosperity to starting over with nothing. Throughout the journey, his family's values, commitment to community, and determination to spread happiness have empowered them to create an incredible company and become leaders here in Canada.
In just 6 years, Peace By Chocolate has grown from a 1 product company to having 160 products, multiple locations, a book, a movie, and the Hadhad's are now a family of Canadians.
Happy Birthday Tareq & congratulations to your mother on receiving her Canadian Citizenship!
Connect with Peace by Chocolate:
@peacebychocolate
peacebychocolate.ca
Resources:
Sometimes, we gotta keep it real and bring on one of our pals!
This week Chris Cunningham joins us and we get into some behind-the-scenes of podcasting, exploring new interests, and he gives us tips on curating the ultimate weekly podcast schedule (plus, all his favourite shows!). We also talk about how he actually took the time to reassess his life during COVID & the changes that stuck for him.
Connect with Chris: @cunninghamchris on Instagram Thanks to Halifax Burger Week for sponsoring this episode. Burger week is BACK Oct 14-23, 2021. Plan your Burger adventures at Burgerweek.co or through the GetintheLoop app.
TAG YOUR BURGERS @thecoasthalifax
Chris' Podcast Recommendations:
This week we're joined by Self-Care Coach, Livia Boerger. Livia shares her journey from working in the fashion industry in NYC, where she was dealing with burnout, to becoming an entrepreneur with self-care at the center of her lifestyle. We talk about: * How to make self-care simple & approachable throughout your day * Connecting your values to self-care * Different ideas that help stop burnout * Being intentional with your time, building a calendar that supports you * Asking the question: Is this worth my attention, energy & time?
Connect with Livia: @madewithlemonsco on Instagram madewithlemons.co Get her free Phone Detox guide that helps build better boundaries with your phone and reduce screen time. Thanks to Halifax Burger Week for sponsoring this episode! Burger week is BACK Oct 14-23, 2021. Plan your Burger adventures at Burgerweek.co or through the GetintheLoop app. TAG YOUR BURGERS @thecoasthalifax
We're back with our first All Talk episode of season 3!
We talk about:
Follow along with us through Instagram @rivalandqueen
More at rivalandqueen.com
EPISODE 100! We are celebrating this week by bringing back one of our favourite guests from Season 1, Vicky Mina. Vicky is the creator behind Vicky Mina Makeup line and a makeup artist in Halifax. We talk about: * How she changed her business over the past 2 years & navigated the pandemic * Reconnecting to the thing that made you fall in love with your work * Aging beautifully, and celebrating aging
Connect with Vicky:
@vickyminamakeup
vickymina.com You can listen to Vicky’s original episode:
Ep. 10
Ep. 11 More at rivalandqueen.com
Haley Hillesland and Jen Corcoran are two of the creators behind Grueter Golf. They are on a mission to get people out golfing no matter what!
We have recently gotten into golf, and have been loving it but it does come with a lot of stereotypes and some intimidation concerns so we are demystifying what it means to be a “golfer.”
This episode will leave you wanting to give golf a go if you haven’t already. We talk about what Grueter means, how they started, golf-style, what to wear, and what’s next for the GG community!
Learn more: www.gruetergolf.com/
Connect: @gruetergolf
References:
Golf Boys
Big thank you to Luvo Wines for sponsoring this episode! You can get your Luvo at luvolife.ca
We are so excited to be back for Season 3, and are jumping right back into it, talking fall fashion, our favorite rom coms, and the idea of showering outdoors.
Our first guest this season is Amber Balcaen, a racecar driver from Winnipeg, who is the only Canadian female in the top 5 series in NASCAR. Amber competes in the NASCAR ARCA series.
We get to know Amber & talk about:
Connect with Amber:
@amberbalcae10
amberbalcaenracing.com
Show Notes:
The pany podcast! We welcome back our producer, Marc Boudreau to recap season 2.
We look back at the last 48 episodes, what we learned, the connections we made, highlights, our favourites, and more. We talk about our Instagram Live show - Waking Up with Rival & Queen, go through our August favorites, and what we’d LOVE to see happen in season 3.
Big thanks to our community for all your support. We LOVE you!
Come see us at our Live Show in Halifax, August 19 on the Halifax waterfront. Enjoy the rest of your summer!
We’ll be back September 9th.
Connect with us on Instagram @rivalandqueen, more at rivalandqueen.com
The pany podcast! We welcome back our producer, Marc Boudreau to recap season 2.
We look back at the last 48 episodes, what we learned, the connections we made, highlights, our favourites, and more. We talk about our Instagram Live show - Waking Up with Rival & Queen, go through our August favorites, and what we’d LOVE to see happen in season 3.
Big thanks to our community for all your support. We LOVE you!
Come see us at our Live Show in Halifax, August 19 on the Halifax waterfront. Enjoy the rest of your summer!
We’ll be back September 9th.
Connect with us on Instagram @rivalandqueen, more at rivalandqueen.com
This week we welcome east-coast hip hop artist, Quake Matthews.
We talk about Quake's journey into music and becoming an artist, the ups and downs he's experienced, and how he bounces back from the lows. He shares a lot of personal stories, his creative process, and the inspiration behind his newest album, The Myth X.
We also share the details about our Links & Luau Charity Golf Tournament and our very first LIVE show - August 19th on the Halifax waterfront.
Connect with Quake:
Quakematthews.com
@quakematthews
Check out his latest album: The Myth X
More at rivalandqueen.com
Big thank you to Luvo Wines for sponsoring this episode! You can get your Luvo at luvolife.ca
What does it take to create some of our favorite women-led businesses? Well, we sat down with two Halifax locals, Meg Cole and Rebekah Streeter, who have followed their passion to create their own unique careers.
Get to know the women behind Rise Up Shine Bright, and Voda Retreats. They share with us why they created these businesses, the experiences they hope to create for others, and the lessons they've picked up by stepping into entrepreneurship.
Follow:
@riseup.shinebright
@vodaretreats
Connect with them:
www.riseupshinebright.ca
www.vodaretreats.com
More at rivalandqueen.com
This week we are joined by Natalie Vansier, the founder of Tour de Soul. Natalie shares how developing a morning routine that brought spirituality into her life changed her path, and her career.
We learn about our North Node, which in astrology is what your soul came to learn in this lifetime. We also explore how to interpret and work with our dreams, and the staples of a powerful morning routine.
Connect with Natalie:
@tour_de_soul
https://www.tourdesoul.org/
More at rivalandqueen.com
Summer is here! In this All Talk episode we plan Sarah's birthday and create a countdown checklist for her to wrap up 32. We cover our July favourites, the LUVO patio party, and re-live the songs that give us the most nostalgia.
We share all the details on our golf tournament: Links & Luau in support of Adsum for Women & Children. It's coming up on August 6. Register at rivalandqueen.com/golf!
More at rivalandqueen.com
Follow along with us on Instagram @rivalandqueen
Thank you to the Nova Scotia Association of Realtors for sponsoring this episode. Learn more at realtor.ca.
This week we’re welcoming Nitasha Goel, the creator of The Cure Skincare. We learn all about how The Cure started as a retail shop for natural skin care products in Toronto, to becoming its own natural skincare brand based out of Hubbards, NS.
Nitasha shares how she ended up on the east coast, what surprised her about building a business in Nova Scotia, the distance she goes to source high-quality ingredients, and she shares plenty of skincare tips!
Connect with Nitasha & Shop The Cure at:
@thecureskincare.ca on Instagram
thecureskincare.ca
More at rivalandqueen.com
This week we have the Head Winemaker of Devonian Coast Wineries, Gina Haverstock, joining us to talk all about how wine is made.
Gina oversees winemaking at Jost, Gaspereau, and Mercator Vineyards; as well as for LUVO Wines (our fave wine in a can!).
We learn all about her unusual path to becoming a winemaker; key differences between red, white & rose; what makes Nova Scotia wines unique, her favorite wines; and lots of fun Q&A! Plus, we finally get her to divulge her favorite kind of LUVO.
Connect with Devonian Coast Wineries:
@devoniancoast
@jostvineyards
@mercatorwine
@gaspereauvineyards
@luvo.life
Big thank you to Luvo Wines for sponsoring this episode! You can get your Luvo at luvolife.ca
Learn more at rivalandqueen.com
This week we have Realtor Chris Peters on to talk about the HOT housing market in Nova Scotia & teach us how to buy a home.
We get to know Chris, how he became a realtor, and why he loves his work. We talk about realtors as investment specialists, how they add value in the home buying process, and we get into the Buyer Homework! Chris tells us the 3 things we have to do to get ready to buy a new home.
Connect with Chris:
@chrispetersrealty.halifax on Instagram
@cpetersrealty on Twitter
Notes:
We’re riding with Spinco this summer!
Sprout Therapy Juice Cleanse - Froyde is our fave!
Big thank you to the Nova Scotia Association of Realtors for sponsoring this episode. Learn how a Nova Scotia Realtor can help you navigate the market and find your perfect fit at realtor.ca
This week we have our newest friend, Brett Ruskin, Video Journalist with CBC News Network.
We first met Brett at a virtual Rival & Queen wine tasting and immediately hit it off! We knew we had to have him on to learn all about what a day as a video journalist is like.
We also get into why he pursued journalism, his funniest headlines, some of the bigger events he’s covered in his career, and the importance of caring for mental health.
Connect with Brett:
Twitter: @brett_cbc
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brettruskin/
All Talk June Edition! We are so excited about warmer weather and summer events, golf, and much more!
This week, we talk about Sarah’s big move, COVID coming out fashion, our fave things this month, and of course, we are planning Sarah’s birthday!
Connect with us on Instagram @rivalandqueen
See all our monthly faves at rivalandqueen.com
This week we have Wendy Sparks, the host & creator of Court-Side Moms Podcast.
We talk to Wendy about why she created her podcast, and the role mothers often play behind the scenes of top-performing athletes.
We dive into her son, Khem Birch’s, journey to the NBA, she shares the ups and downs of watching your child go for their lifelong dream, and how incredible it’s been to connect with other parents who share the same experience.
Connect:
@wenssparks73
@courtsidemoms
Listen to Court-Side Moms: https://www.tidalleague.com/show/court-side-moms/
Resources:
The Budget Dermatologist
Cerave
La Roche Posay
More at rivalandqueen.com
This week we have actor Steve Lund joining us. We learn all about his journey from playing hockey to becoming an actor.
We talk about following your heart, why he chose to pursue acting and the friends and family that supported him along the way.
We also get into his experience playing Jake on Schitt’s Creek, what working with Dan Levy and Catherine O’Hara was like, his best and worst on-screen smooches, and his first feature-length film, Wildhood. We dive real deep into things like astrology and Steve’s new approach to what’s next.
Connect with Steve on Instagram: @leven_stund
Notes:
More at rivalandqueen.com
Jasmine Parent (also known as @JasmineLosingIt on Instagram), and her partner, Jeremy Crawley have collectively lost over 200 lbs. since they decided to embark on a healthier journey together in 2017. Jasmine shares the moment she knew she wanted to make a change in her life and how this time it would be different than her past attempts. We also talk about how her life has changed completely since she started sharing her weightloss journey publicly through social media. Jasmine now feels free in her body. She shares how we can all change our mindset around our bodies and weight loss, and that self-compassion is a key part of our wellbeing. Connect with Jasmine: * @jasminelosingit * iamworthywellness.com * Workout with Jasmine on the Freeplay App
Learn more at rivalandqueen.com
This week we are joined by Masterchef Canada finalist, Andy Hay! Andy shares his journey from working at a software company to showing up on our TV screens at home.
We talk about how his previous career gave him skills to stand out as a chef online; how 100 Days of the Quarantine Kitchen made Andy our favorite person to cook with on Instagram; our best and worst meals; his vision for Andy’s East Coast Kitchen; how his family is making it work during covid; and what happens behind the scenes on reality TV.
Andy competes in the final episode of Masterchef Canada All-Star edition this week. Our fingers are crossed for him! Connect with Andy:
@andyseastcoastkitchen_
theeastcoastkitchen.com
More at rivalandqueen.com
It’s May and we are back for another Rival & Queen All Talk Edition!
We recap our fave things this month, how owning a Tesla can become problematic, Sarah’s energy session which leads her to a nightmare, Ashley's top-notch organizing skills, homemade pasta, and our wine tasting event!
R&Q Virtual Wine Tasting Event is coming up Saturday, May 8.
Get BYOB tickets! rivalandqueen.com/events
More at rivalandqueen.com
Jolene d’Entremont helps people access and release stored emotions through breathwork, yoga, and somatic coaching.
We were lucky enough to experience a private breathwork session with Jolene, we get candid about our own experiences and how they were very different.
Jolene also explains how breathwork can enable layers of healing and the benefits of this practice. This episode is all about discovering the power of the breath!
Connect with Jolene:
@yogaon.ca
www.yogaon.ca
Learn more at rivalandqueen.com
This week we took a hilarious walk down memory lane with our siblings, Greg Sampon (Ashley’s big brother) and Jennifer Murphy (Sarah’s little sister).
Greg and Jennifer tell some stories from growing up, what it’s like to be related to us and how our relationships have grown over the years. If you want to learn even more about the gals from Rival & Queen, this is the episode for you!
Connect with Greg & Jennifer:
@gsampsonsports on Instagram & Twitter
@jennifermurphybeauty
jennifermurphybeauty.com
Notes:
Shout out to Luvo Wine for sponsoring this episode! Get your Luvo at luvolife.ca
More at rivalandqueen.com
Carla Saunders is a lawyer & the digital creator behind @callhercarla, a place for fashion inspiration, celebrating beauty, wise words and so much creativity!
In this episode, we talk about Carla's realization that she can be both a creative and a lawyer, and how she is finally owning both of those identities. We explore the boxes we put ourselves in, how too often we think of career vs. passion instead of nurturing both and learning to lean into our creative callings.
Connect with Carla:@callhercarla
Resources:
This week we welcome celebrity hairstylist, Chris Greene. Chris shares his journey from starting out as a hairstylist in Halifax, NS to working at MèCHE Salon, one of the busiest salons in Beverly Hills & having plenty of celebrity clients. Chris shares the ups and downs of his journey, and so many lessons, like the importance of putting yourself out there, going after what you want (and being creative about it), and sharing your dreams with others. Plus, he tells us what it's like working at such a bustling salon, with plenty of celebrities popping in! Chris' tenacity is a great reminder to us all to go after what we want, and how fun it can be. Connect with Chris @chrisgreenehair
Learn more at rivalandqueen.com
We are super excited about all the fun things going on! Spring has sprung, and we are soaking in all the adventures. In this episode we re-live our visit to House of Moda for a private shopping night; our weekend away at The Black Shack in Liverpool, and the launch of Sarah's new project: Reconnect & Awaken: a community for your Soul Journey. We also talk about small delights, what we're enjoying right now, our upcoming girls' night with Voda Retreats, and our favorite travel memories. As we do in every all talk, we recap our monthly favorites: experience, product, food, and songs! More at rivalandqueen.com
Rebekah Muir is an astrologer, energy healer, and singer who has done astrology readings for both Ashley and Sarah.
This week we learn what astrology is beyond horoscopes. Rebekah introduces astrology as a language of energy that can be used to better understand ourselves. We dive into the misconceptions and skepticism around astrology, how you can begin exploring astrology, and how to work with it as a tool in your life.
Connect with Rebekah:sacredstarlight.com
@sacred_starlight
Resources:
Ozlem Manness is a jewelry designer and the creator of the House of Moda. Ozlem shares her journey growing her business out of a love for creating unique pieces to opening House of Moda's flagship store.
Countless celebrities have worn House of Moda like Beyoncé, Lisa Rinna, Keisha Chante, and Alicia Silverstone, just to name a few.
Ozlem tells us exactly how she got Beyoncé to wear her earrings, and how it helped her launch her business. We also talk about her style inspiration and business advice. Plus, we’ve got 2 rounds of Queenie Grams for you!
Connect with @houseofmoda
Shop at houseofmoda.ca
Resources:
@acenayman
@chiaraferragnibrand
Thanks to Luvo Wines for sponsoring this episode. Get your Luvo at luvolife.ca.
This week we have Fantanesh Attomsa, the owner of Blue Nile Massage Therapy on to talk all about chakras. Fanny is a Registered Massage Therapist and Doula who works with reiki and other forms of energy healing.
Fanny introduces us to chakras and the energy system in our body. We learn about all 7 chakras, how they connect to our body and our life, and how we can work with each of our chakra centers to keep them balanced. We also explore tuning into our own bodies and noticing our energy.
Connect with Fanny:@bluenile.massage.therapy
Blue Nile Massage Therapy: bluenilemassagetherapy.com
Learn more at rivalandqueen.com
In celebration of International Women's Day, we have a special collaborative episode with Martina Kelades from the Life Out Loud Podcast!
We have brought together the women podcasters from BNV Media to celebrate women’s voices in a show that encourages, inspires, and empowers.
We talk about everything from women’s health and wellbeing, celebrating femininity to building community, and more. Learn about each of these women, their podcast & the unique message they have to share.
Here's the all-star lineup:
Big thank you to our episode sponsors:
Learn more & connect with us at rivalandqueen.com and @rivalandqueen.
This week caught up with hockey player Steve Dixon. Steve plays with the Cardiff Devils in the Elite Ice Hockey League in the UK.
We learn about his career in hockey over the past 20 years, from playing in the Quebec Major Junior League to Pro in the US, and then overseas in Russia and throughout Europe.
He talks about being home in Halifax during COVID and what’s next for him. The best part of this episode though, are some of the stories he shares like his Russian modeling career, giving Paul Bissonnette the nickname Biz Nasty, and growing up in Cape Breton.
Connect with Steve at @sjdixon18 on Instragram.
Big shout out to Plumbers Golf for sponsoring this episode. Get your Plumbers gear at plumbersgolf.com
We're back with another monthly update! Catch up on our latest outings & antics, all of our favourite things this month, and a special episode coming up for International Women's Day.
We're recapping:
Resources:
Mariah Pelley-Smith is a multi-passionate entrepreneur, working in web design, intuitive business strategy, reiki, and more. She is also a deeply devoted Kundalini Student and Practitioner. This week Mariah introduces us to Kundalini, the yoga that merges the esoteric and scientific. We talk about how creativity is the new currency and how Kundalini yoga can help us unlock our greatest potential by leveling up our consciousness and helping us latch on to what serves us. We cover the benefits of Kundalini (like how it helps us prepare for success) and Mariah shares some of her favorite meditations and mantras with us! Connect with Mariah:
@mariah.pelleysmith
@reiki.mariah
@Mariah.kundaliniyoga
mariahpelleysmith.com Learn more at rivalandqueen.com
Kayla Short is an award-winning blogger, columnist, and TV personality and she can be found right here in Halifax!
Before building her own business, she was a teacher, which gave her the confidence to do what she does now. Kayla documents her love for fashion, style, travel, and beauty.
This week she gives us a look at the business behind blogging, how to create a career in a field that doesn’t yet exist, and shares where she’s focusing her energy next.
Plus, Kayla updates us on the hottest trends with the Gen Z’s, like what emoji’s are in, Tik Tok, and the latest fashion.
Connect with Kayla at shortpresents.com and @shortpresents.
Big shout out to Luvo Wines for sponsoring this episode! Get your Luvo at luvolife.ca.
More at rivalandqueen.com
This week we turned the tables and interviewed High Button Sports founder, Justin Belanger. Justin hosts a popular podcast, The High Button Podcast where he focuses on interviewing athletes, artists, and entrepreneurs. We talked to him about the path that led him to build his sports media broadcasting company, the learning curve of starting a podcast, his interview with Nathan McKinnon and what almost went wrong, and what the future holds for High Button Sports. Find the High Button Podcast anywhere you listen to podcasts. This episode is dedicated to Justin's girlfriend, Sarah. Connect with High Button Sports: www.highbuttonsports.ca Follow @highbuttonsports on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and YouTube -- Watch Sarah on the LIVE podcast with The Book of Love tonight at 8 pm AST. Learn more at rivalandqueen.com
We are honored to welcome back Verena Rigz. We first talked to Verena in early 2020, in episode 24, and a lot changed since then.
This past year Verena experienced a range of emotions and intensity. She faced the COVID crisis head-on as a clinician, got married, and was deeply engaged as the Black Lives Matter movement exploded.
This week we explore how she took care of herself this past year, the importance of setting boundaries, and what it was like for Verena as a Sudanese Egyptian woman in 2020. She shares her most recent poem, a part of her self-care and healing: Rain.
Connect with Verena & listen to her poem on IGTV @verenarizg
Our first all talk edition of 2021! A new year and a new us.
This week we dive into how we are feeling for the year ahead, dry January, Sarah’s new project that is launching, our dream vacations, and of course our favorite things this month.
Also, we just launched our first R&Q Merch! A limited number of R&Q toques in our signature bright purple toque. YES! Get your own: rivalandqueen.com/shop
Connect with us on Instagram @rivalandqueen
Resources: Get updates on Sarah's new project - http://tinyletter.com/sarahmurphy
Comedians Justine Williamson and Greg Vardy are the creators, writers and producers of the cheeky Cape Breton duo, Tracy & Martina.
This week we wanted to bring you straight laughs, and these huns don’t disappoint. Tracy & Martina share their resolutions for 2021, update us on their dating lives, and give us makeup tips to step up our looks.
Plus, we get the inside scoop on their new book coming out in Fall 2021 and all the Cape Breton gossip. Grab a rum & coke and saddle up for this one!
Connect with Tracy & Martina:
Facebook.com/tracyandmartina
@itstracyhun
@yourgirlmartina
Link to videos & more at rivalandqueen.com
Thanks to Luvo Wines for sponsoring this episode. Grab your Luvo at luvolife.ca.
Mireka Starr shares her incredible journey of becoming an artist, but there was once a time when she considered herself a ‘non-artistic’ person.
In this episode, she shares how a mentor in LA helped her discover painting and her gift for self-expression. Through art, she found confidence as a gay woman, an outlet for healing, and her life’s passion.
Connect on Instagram @mirekastarr
Online gallery: saatchiart.com/mirekastarr
Learn more: rivalandqueen.com
We'll be back next Thursday on January 7, 2021. Until then, we wish everyone in the R&Q community a Happy New Year!
Tell us how you rang in the year: @rivalandqueen
The holiday season is here! This week Ash & Sarah recap December and talk about all the festive things like the first R&Q food drive, their top-rated holiday gifts, their hopes for 2021 (as always, Thomas Rhett comes up), and how they prepare for the new year. Plus they share all their December favourites and a bit of silliness.
Links to all their faves and more at rivalandqueen.com.
R&Q will be back on January 7!
Brooke Rivers, Trinity Foxx, and Racheal, the stars of Haus of Rivers join us this week to teach us all about drag!
PSA: you must check out our YouTube channel to see how fabulous they look.
We go there with the ladies! From how they each started in drag, to how they transform from head to toe. We learn how drag has changed their lives, why they love it, and how they get ready for a show.
We also get into the drag queen community in Halifax/the east coast and hear all about the glow-up of Brooke, Trinity, and Racheal... with a few funny moments along the way.
BROOKE RIVERS FOR CANADA'S DRAG RACE SEASON 2!
Connect with @hausofrivers on Instagram / on Facebook
Join their virtual show Slay Bells Ball on December 18th
Thanks to our episode sponsor, Luvo. luvolife.ca
More at rivalandqueen.com
This week we're joined by Grace McNutt and Linnea Swiminer, hosts of the Canadian history podcast, Minute Women. They know how to make history a ton of fun. We learn about the Minute Women, share our favorite Canadian Heritage Moments and each swap Canadian history tidbits: * Newfoundland changes from left to right * George Orton, a Canadian Olympian * Santa's a Canadian * Alexander Graham Bell invents the telephone
Connect:
@minutewomenpodcast Listen to the Minute Women Podcast minutewomenpodcast.ca Learn more at rivalandqueen.com
Matchmaker, matchmaker make me a match!
We spoke with matchmaker Jean-eva Dickie from J-E Matchmaking to understand how she coaches people to find their perfect match.
We dive into compatibility, how to use dating apps, dos and don’ts on dates, the 3 things that make a match, our blocks to love, and a bunch of listener questions!
Learn about working with Jean-eva & her resources for love: jematchmaking.com
@jematchmaking
Check out her podcast The Book of Love
Learn more at rivalandqueen.com
NEW LAUNCH // It’s the Rival & Queen All Talk Edition with your hosts Ashley & Sarah.
We are bringing you all the catch-up goodness from the past month, like what’s going on in our lives from concerts to drag shows to making wine and of course funny stories, dating and more!
Join us for this 30 minute R&Q All Talk!
More at rivalandqueen.com
This week we learn about plant medicines and explore the benefits of microdosing.
We spoke with author and psychedelic advocate Laura Dawn who founded AYA Visionary. She introduces us to different plant medicines, how you can work with them, the experience, and how to anchor your visions into reality for lasting change.
Laura weaves together Eastern philosophy with the latest research in the fields of neuroscience, psychedelic studies, and quantum physics to teach you how to become the visionary of your life.
Laura has a free microdosing course for beginners
Connect:
livefreelaurad.com
@livefreelaurad
Learn more at rivalandqueen.com
This week we brought Kerri Houweling back to answer our most burning skincare questions!
Kerri is the owner of Vibe Salon & Medi-Spa, and is a Master Clinical Esthetician.
Kerri breaks down the different clinical skincare treatments, their benefits, downtime & what age to start. We cover IPL, Photorejuvenation, Jessner Peel, Microneedling, Dermaplaning, Facials, and more. Kerri gave Sarah a Photorejuvenation session and Ashley a Microneedling session - hear what we thought & watch our full experience on our YouTube Vlog. Learn more vibesalonspa.com
@vibesalonmedispa
@kerri_vibemedispa
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWdG--gLvHjGD2EpieRuCNw?view_as=subscriber
More at rivalandqueen.com
Thanks to Luvo Wines for sponsoring this episode. Get your Luvo: luvolife.ca
This week we have two ambitious Mompreneurs who built an entire business during the Pandemic. Eager to assist local businesses and makers during harder times, Priya and Thanh dreamt up blushco.
We learn about the very first blushco. Box, what an entrepreneur’s day looks like, how they balance each other as partners, and how they, as Moms make work fit around their life, not the other way around.
blushco. Boxes are launching this November, sign up and be first to know at blushco.ca
Learn more: @blushco.ca / @blushco.branding
More at rivalandqueen.com
Victoria Jane spent years in Silicon Valley achieving all the success she thought she wanted, but then found herself exhausted, burnt out, and with her health declining. Her life felt out of alignment and hard in many ways.
She discovered Human Design through her journey of self healing, and began learning about her own unique design and how she could start living more in flow.
Victoria shares what Human Design is, how to start learning about your own design, and she introduces the 5 types in HD: Manifestors, Generators, Manifesting Generators, Projectors, and Reflectors.
Connect: @victoriajane.hd
victoriajane.co
Resources: Get your Human Design Chart
More at rivalandqueen.com
Catie Fenn is an Ex-Lawyer, turned Soul Guide and Coach. While practicing law she felt out of alignment despite reaching her vision of "success". She shares how she began following her intuitive nudges, which led her to recreate her career and entire life.
Catie teaches us how to recognize our own intuition, how to use it in our day-to-day, and what’s on the other side of living more intuitively. We also dive into reconnecting with who you are, bringing feminine energy into our work, and journaling and meditation methods.
Connect with @catiefenn
Learn about workshops, courses, and future retreats at catiefenn.com
Notes: The Surrender Experiment
@GregSampsonsports
More at rivalandqueen.com
This week we discuss the power of writing with spoken word poet, Kanaar Bell.
Kanaar treats writing as his superpower to heal and connect with his soul. He shares how he channels his emotions through his writing, his writing routine & practices, emotional learning, and the power of getting to know yourself. We also learn about his new podcast and what happens at spoken word competition.
Connect: @kanaarbell
Let Your SOULTALK!
Resources:
CASEL https://casel.org/
Siera Bearchell is a mom, wife, creator, law graduate and she also happens to be Miss Universe Canada 2016. This title led her to the world stage in the Philippines at the Miss Universe competition, but Siera almost didn’t go.
Although she placed in the top 9, she faced a ton of body shaming and negativity. Siera turned this experience around and built a platform as a body-positive activist who is recognized internationally. This week we dive into her journey and learn all about pageants.
Connect with @sierabearchell
Subscribe to her youtube
Shout out to our sponsor Luvo wines! luvolife.ca
Learn more at rivalandqueen.com
Quentrel Provo is the founder of Stop the Violence, an award-winning activist, and recently named one of the Most Influential People of African Descent Under 40 by the United Nations.
Quentrel's mission to stop youth violence began in 2012 when he lost his best friend and cousin, Kaylin Diggs, to a senseless act of violence. Since that day, he has made it his mission to educate and mentor others to stop violence and instead spread more love in the world. He shares how a 300-person memorial walk in 2012 has turned into a movement through empowering families and youth.
Connect:
@mr_stop_the_violence
Stop the Violence, Spread Love
Learn more at rivalandqueen.com/blog
Experienced Reiki master Ali Lizzi knows how to channel universal life force energy for physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well being.
Ali walks us through the basics, starting with what Reiki is, how it works, what a typical session looks like, and how we can feel our own energy. Ali also has a unique ability to see people's auras, which she brings to life in aura portraits. She teaches us how we can start seeing auras too.
Connect with:
@ali.lizzi
@youraurabyali
@blissandbalance.healing
Amethyst heating pad
Learn more at rivalandqueen.com/blog
Top Chef Canada runner up Chef Stephanie Ogilvie joins us this week to share her story of how she fell in love with being in the kitchen from a young age, what foraging is and we dive into her Top Chef journey. We also get tips on how to improve our own cooking skills and how we can all start foraging and preserving.
Steph has recently fulfilled her lifelong dream of opening her own restaurant, Hop Scotch Dinner Club in Halifax, where you can expect to experience maritime ingredients and flavours that are locally sourced.
Connect with Stephanie:
@stepho_21
@hopscotchdinnerclub
Welcome back to Season 2 of Rival & Queen!
What stories have you been telling yourself? This week we talk with Victoria Brown, Mindset Coach and SoulCycle instructor.
Victoria talks about the impact stories have on our lives. She dives into why it’s important to consciously look at your own stories and how to re-write them to empower yourself to live a purpose driven life.
Victoria’s new program Very Best Self is built on the philosophy that we can become stronger versions of who we already are, together. You can learn more and sign up via Instagram @victoriabrown @verybestself
rivalandqueen.com
Watch R&Q on Youtube
That's a wrap for Season 1! Listen along as we chat with our producer Marc Boudreau, and recap some of our favorite moments over the past year. See you all on September 3 for Season 2!
Send us your guest requests rivalandqueen@gmail.com
Follow: @bnv.media & @marcboudy
Subscribe to our YouTube channel to see unedited episodes!
Visit rivalandqueen.com for more goodness.
Curious about meditation? Well this is the podcast for you. Join us in a discussion with Founders of Flo Meditation, Autumn Grant and Jonathan Dododza. They introduce us to mindfulness meditation, guide us through practical steps in getting started with a meditation practice, how to structure your own practice, the importance of creating an environment to meditate in, and how to keep yourself accountable.
Flo Meditation believes in creating community unity through meditation.
Follow: @flomeditation (their guided meditations are on IGTV!)
Visit: flomeditation.ca to join a meditation session
Supported by: Bend Beauty Anti-Aging Formula
It all started with a goal to get 10k Instagram followers. Now, Caley Dimmock is the owner and creator of Dimik Creative Group, specializing in marketing, photography, and digital advertising.
Caley shares her entrepreneurial journey, what led her to start her own agency, and how she uses fear as a growth mechanism. Bonus, we finally learn what an Instagram influencer is!
Get Caley’s free Freelancer Guide: https://caleydimmock.com/freelancerguide
Connect: @cjdimmock
caleydimmock.com
Learn more about our guests at rivalandqueen.com
Martina Kelades is the founder of Life Out Loud and the Life Out Loud Podcast, a mental health consulting and creative company. In the episode, Martina shares her story experiencing burnout, facing fears, discovering her vulnerability, and gaining the courage to live out loud. Martina aims to continue conversations related to mental health and wellness and make it a normal part of our day-to-day.
Connect with Martina:
@lady_kelady
@lifeoutloud_ns
lifeoutloud.ca
Anna Townsend has been involved in the fitness industry for many years. She is an experienced health & fitness coach, and recently opened her own fitness studio, The Fitness Room just 2 years ago.
Anna is all about creating the best version of yourself through self-love, nourishing your body with wholesome food, rethinking self-image, and the importance of listening to your body. She strongly believes that working out is more about self-care than counting calories and pant size.
Follow:
@annatownsendfit
@thefitnessroomhfx
The pandemic has created a very unique job market for job seekers and anyone looking to make a career change. Career designer and matchmaker, Jen Warrington shares her take on finding your next career path and how to navigate this process virtually. She covers how to improve your online profiles, networking remotely, interview tips and how to negotiate with confidence.
Connect with Jen on LinkedIn: Jen Warrington
Instagram: @jen__stagram
Her new digital course is coming soon. You can follow her Instagram for launch details.
Taylor Crosby is a women's hockey player who most recently played for St. Cloud University, in Minnesota, and she also happens to be the younger sister of Sidney Crosby.
Taylor shares her journey through hockey, shines a light on what being a female athlete means, her hopes for the future of female sports, and how she applies the values and skills that sports gave her which help her in other aspects of her life.
Alex Livingston is a professional poker player, born and raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia. He splits his time between the east coast of Canada and Las Vegas, Nevada. Just last year, Alex placed 3rd in the World Series of Poker Main Event, which was a huge accomplishment in the poker player's career. Alex tells us what led him down this unique career path, introduces us to different types of poker, and shares lots of hilarious stories along the way.
Follow: @rumnchess
This week we are re-releasing excerpts from our conversations with Tyler Simmonds and Verena Rizg.
Tyler and Verena talk openly about their experiences with racism, how we make people feel, the importance of empathy and compassion, and how to have meaningful conversations that can create real change. In support of the Black Lives Matter movement, we thought it was more important than ever to revisit this conversation.
Verena Rizg
Tyler Simmonds
Resources
This week Danielle Soppa, co-founder of Pure Private Wealth is teaching all about managing money! Danielle gets us thinking about mindset around money and feeling empowered about our finances. She teaches us how to rethink traditional budgeting, manage our finances in 30 minutes a week, redistribute our money to things that actually matter to us, and more.
Follow:
@deesopp
@pureprivatewealth
Resources:
21-day Abundance program with Deepak
Rich Dad, Poor Dad
The Compound Effect
In this bonus episode we're celebrating Ashley's birthday with the two people who probably know her best; her brother, Greg Sampson and her husband, Jeff Kielbratowski.
This is a fun episode where we get to learn more about Ashley & cap it off with lots of birthday blessings!
Taye Landry shares her very personal journey and a project near and dear to her heart called HER. The HER movement is intended to empower us all to step into who we are called, created and intended to be. Taye is taking things online with her virtual event May 24th to inspire and encourage anyone who needs it. We cover the power of words, bullying, building a movement & more.
Follow: @tayelandry
Resources:
Mel Robbins, 5 second rule
This week it is all about mindset. Psychologist Tara Forgeron joins us to teach us about counseling and taking care of your mental health. She shares what to expect during a session, how to check in with yourself, and what proactive mental health means. She also gives us tips and apps we can use at home to support our mental health. Tara opened her private practice after completing a Master of Arts degree in Counselling Psychology from the University of Toronto. They focus on Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy approaches.
Learn more: taraforgeron.com
Follow: @taraforgeronpsychology
Resources:
Calm App
Headspace App
The Happiness Project, Author Gretchen Rubin
Stephanie Brown is a Physiotherapist working exclusively in Pelvic Floor Health, and a passionate advocate for women’s health.
Stephanie educates us on our pelvic floor and why it’s so important. We cover issues that may arise (like painful sex, postpartum recovery, accidental pee breaks, etc.), and how pelvic floor therapy can help. Stephanie also teaches us how to properly do Kegels and tips on developing a healthy pelvic floor.
Follow:
@stephaniebrownpfpt
@choicehealthcentre
This week we talked with Mike Barbour, builder of brands, man of fitness. Mike is passionate about building brands within the food industry like Rivalus, Goodstuff and Freshii. He's about to launch his next company Harvest, a farm-to-table eatery in Nova Scotia.
Mike takes us through his journey as an entrepreneur in the consumer packaged goods and food industry, he explains how products get on the shelves and how he's built a career that connects his passion for health & wellness and entrepreneurship.
Follow:
@mikebarbz
@orderharvest
Tyler Simmonds is a public speaker and filmmaker who speaks openly about his experience living with mental illness, reminding people that recovery is possible and emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, mindfulness, and achieving your “flow state” through creativity and meditation.
Tyler’s voice is heard louder than ever, he is very vocal about sharing his story and educating others on the topic of toxic masculinity and environmental racism, which we uncovered this week.
tylersimmonds.com
@tylersimmonds
@thestillnessiskey
This week we are talking all things green beauty with Gabrielle Dubois, the Green Belle herself. Gabrielle shares what got her started in becoming a green beauty enthusiast and she also tells us about her most loved green brands. And don't worry, if you want to know how to become more cautious about the products you are using, she shares some tips on how to make changes in your beauty routine.
Resources:
Think dirty app
ewg.org
Clearya plugin
Follow: @thegreenbelle
The Green Belle Podcast
Ever wake up in the night wondering why am I awake? Or wonder how much sleep you actually need? Join us with sleep consultant Christine Lawler, who is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Sleep consultant. She specializes in sleep consulting for babies and for adults. We learn all about why sleep matters, how to build sleep habits and more.
Connect:
@the.peaceful.sleeper
thepeacefulsleeper.com
Rebekah Higgs aka DIY Mom is a talented home improvement expert and has built a brand and business around her budget-friendly renos & DIY approach.
We get to know Rebekah and dive into how her DIY Mom brand came to life, where she pulls inspiration, how you can also create your own style at home, and tips for the creatively challenged and much more!
Follow: @diymom.ca
Jeremy and Nick teach us all about beer, how it's made, the different kinds, what you can pair with it to make a perfect match. We also learn the journey of 2 Crows Brewing, all about the craft beer industry and how Nick and Jeremy met. Cheers!
Follow: @2crowsbrewing and visit www.2crowsbrewing.com
PLEASE NOTE: 2 Crows Brewing does delivery orders. Please show your support for local businesses at this time while we're all inside!
We are die-hard pilates fans! This week we get Nicola Cameron to teach us all about our favorite workout. She shares her journey into fitness, what pilates is, where it came from & all the benefits.
Nicola is a pilates, barre & towers instructor at RStudios. Follow: @nicolanova
Bonus: pilates is great for at-home workouts. Follow @rstudiosns to catch Nicola's online classes 2x weekly.
It’s time to learn all about botox, fillers, topical skincare & medical skincare treatments.
Aundrea Trevors, Certified Aesthetic Nurse Specialist, and Kerri Houweling - Medical Skin Therapist teach us all about how to help our skin age gracefully. We cover Botox & Fillers 101 - what these treatments do & how they work; taking care of our skin at home, what products are crucial, and get their best tips and advice.
Follow:
@aundreanurseinc
@kerri_vibemedispa
@vibesalonmedispa
Harriette Schumacher is a Certified Executive Coach and Leadership Executive. She helps people level up their performance and take big leaps forward in their career path.
We talk to Harriette about career development and how important it is for each person to take charge of their own growth path. We cover changing leadership styles, career coaching, finding the resources to help you grow, and how to have FIERCE and effective conversations! Harriette's all about approaching life from a place of realness & helps her clients achieve that too.
Connect: @harrietteschumacher
harrietteschumacher.com
Lindsay Umlah & Sarah Cresswell are the creators behind Momgasm - the podcast about reclaiming sensuality & pleasure in motherhood. These women are on a mission to normalize to healthy conversations about sex.
This week we dive into the power of embodying our sensuality, accepting our body, tantra, monogamy & non-monogamy, how to start talking about sex and why pleasure is so important. This episode is extra fun!
Follow: @momgasmpodcast
Eager to dig deeper into neurology, preventative medicine and hormonal health Dr. Mallory Ryan achieved a doctorate degree in Naturopathic Medicine. Dr. Mal teaches us all about hormones and stress, and how our mindset can play a big role. We get into how hormones affect us physically - our sleep, skin, emotions, mindset and more, and how we can tweak things in our lifestyles and mindset to help our hormones and overall health.
Connect:
Dr.mallory
drmalloryryan.com
Verena Rizg is a woman of many talents: nurse practitioner, artist, and poet, with strong ties to her faith, family and community. Growing up in the Coptic Orthodox church has shaped the woman she is today.
We talk to Verena about how she brings her faith into her everyday life, the power of conversation, and how we each communicate, heal and love in unique ways. She shares with us the inspiration behind her poetry and tells the story of her poem: Intentional.
Follow @verenarizg
Resources:
Laura Davies is a registered holistic nutritional consultant, who works with moms & women to help them feel great and live their healthiest lives.
We talk to Laura about her work as a Nutrition & Mindset coach, how women’s bodies change after pregnancy, rethinking what healthy means, and how everyone can take small steps to create big change in their wellbeing. We cover mindfulness, gut health, postpartum & more.
Follow: @lauradavieshealth
This week we have Photographer, Writer and Food Stylist, Jess Emin on the podcast. We learn about how Jess turned a passion for cooking into this unique career, what goes behind a food photo, recipes & things she loves to cook, favourite Halifax food spots, and her new TV show.
If you’re looking for drool-worthy food photos, follow Jess on Instagram: @eatwithjessie
Join us while we get educated on anti-ageing skincare with Brooke Stephen of Bend Beauty. We uncover the secrets to good skincare from the inside out and learn all about Bend Beauty's natural approach to healthy, beautiful skin.
We get into how our skin changes in our 20s/30s/40s+, hormones, skincare routines, pro-ageing philosophies, and learn about Bend Beauty products and ingestible skincare.
Follow: @bendbeauty
Ben Edwards, the founder of El Dorado Hats of walks us through the secret trade of hatmaking and his process for creating handmade, one-of-a-kind pieces.
We get to know Ben, talk about the inspiration behind El Dorado Hats, his style icons, how he works with clients to design the perfect hat and his music.
Follow:
@eldoradohats
@benedwardsmusic
Ryan Williams is no stranger to the podcast scene. He’s the host of @whatyoumakeitpodcast, photographer, entrepreneur and family man. He joins us for a rapid-fire Q&A. We also learn how to take the perfect selfie, talk about creating a life you want, finding your voice, and dig into one of Ryan's guilty pleasures...The Bachelor!
Follow @iamryanwilliams
Reflecting and planning for the next year? We talk about how we refresh and reset for the new year and look back on the ups and downs of 2019. We love the natural check in the new year gives us. We're excited for the things Rival & Queen has ahead in 2020.
Happy Holidays from Rival & Queen. To celebrate the holidays we decided to bring on our dads, Bill Sampson and Tim Murphy.
We get to know our dads, talk about holiday traditions, relive their glory days and what they were up to in their 30s. Most importantly we ask their advice on life in our 30s.
We came, we saw, we conquered this challenge! We searched high and low, brought together an esteemed group of panelists and collectively agreed on which cookie truly deserved the title. Who knew cookie tasting could be so exhausting, what a sugar rush!
We visit 14 bake shops to test their cookies, swap best recipes & weigh-in. The BEST chocolate chip cookie of 2019 is…
Follow our guests Jess Emin @eatwithjessie / Nicole Cameron @nicolenova
This week we talk with Michele Giffin, owner of Oz Shoes.
Michele shares her story with us on how Oz came to life, bringing her idea to reality, all the while tying back to her philosophy on life. Her passion for all things shoes and fashion teaches us the real magic behind a great pair of shoes. We also cover what it’s like to work in retail, buying trips (heaven), and of course the ups, and downs of working on your own. If you don't know what a #shoefie is, Michele teaches us exactly what that means.
Visit Oz Shoes:
ozshoes.com
@welcome.to.oz
On this week's episode, Rival & Queen gets high. We've got the COO of Breathing Green Solutions, Joe Sanford, on to teach us all about cannabis. We learn about THC, CBD, Indica, Sativa... all of the words you've heard before but may not quite understand. Joe gives us a Cannabis 101 lesson, teaches us about the different characteristics of weed, the chemistry and growing methods, how to start exploring cannabis recreationally and we answer some fan questions.
We smoke Strawberry Sky by Skosha.
Connie McInnes, the creator of R Studios (@rstudiosns) has built a strong brand and fitness community with 3 locations in only 5 years. Connie’s rethinking what community fitness means and pushing the boundaries to create a place where everyone feels welcome in the community.
In this episode, Connie shares her story and shines a light on how she brought her vision to life. We go deep into her creative process, the need for isolation and creating space for yourself, the R Studios experience (yoga, pilates, HIIT and more), and personal growth.
Okay, we have had a few requests for us to shine more light on who we are and how we became Rival & Queen. In this episode, you will get to know more about us, Ashley Kielbratowski & Sarah Murphy, as we interview each other in a fun, rapid-fire Q&A! Startup / tech women by day, podcast hosts by night.
Connect with us on social:
@rivalandqueen
@ashleykiel
@sar.murph
Part 2 of our conversation with Vicky Mina and Jacquelyn LeRue.
This week we talk about chasing your calling. We cover Vicky's journey into becoming a makeup artist, Jacquelyn's path to becoming a hairstylist and salon owner, and how creatives can work together to elevate their industry. Bonus: Jacquelyn and Vicky also share their favourite hair and makeup products.
Connect with these ladies on Instagram:
@vickyminamakeup
@jacquelyn_theparlour
@theparlourhalifax
We discuss what it means to show up and feel powerful in your own skin. Vicky Mina and Jacqueline LeRue help women look and feel their best every day. Makeup artist & hairstylist turned dynamic duo, they are no strangers to supporting women in their community in so many ways. Both Moms of 3 and entrepreneurs, these fierce women know how to get shit done (and look great doing it).
Connect with these ladies on Instagram:
@vickyminamakeup
@jacquelyn_theparlour
@theparlourhalifax
This week we meet the ladies behind the Boos & Bourbon podcast, Kim Moser and Jen Taylor. Kim & Jen introduce us to bourbon and guide us through our very first tasting! In a very fitting Halloween episode, the also girls share their personal ghost stories and their spooky trip to Kentucky.
Find Kim & Jen: @boosandbourbon / listen in to the podcast
Bourbon recommendations: Angel's Envy, Weller Antique 107
Singer-songwriter Dave Sampson shines light on a topic we know nothing about, the music industry. Dave, a talented Cape Bretoner is paving his own way from here to Nashville. We learn about his new EP entitled All Types of Ways, what goes into creating an album, his songwriting process, and his first Gold-Record as a songwriter - with Snoop Dogg & Classified no less.
@dave.sampson
Listen to Dave's new EP - All Types of Ways
The stars, the sun, your rising moon - what does it all mean? This week we chat with astrology enthusiast Amanda McMillan. We cover everything from astrology in dating and its popularity in the queer community. The Toronto native also lays the smackdown on us about our East Coast-isms.
Show notes:
We love Ali MacKellar's unique approach to a stronger self & personal training. She gets to know her clients on a deeper level as she guides them through a personal and physical journey. Ali also leads a life of adventure, from biking to travelling, to exploring hidden gems in her hometown of Toronto - we cover it all.
@alimackellar_
Resources:
Strong Enough - Ali's 5-week Strength Course
Alex Hanssen @alhanssen (Olympian)
R Studios in Halifax
Total Kneads Massage Therapy
Book: The 4 Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin
Dismount Bike Shop (Toronto)
Norco Bicycles
This week we talk with two dynamo moms, Kara Kim and Nicole Turnbull, and learn about what it's like to be a mom in your 30s.
Mom truths and stories that will entertain moms and none moms alike. We love learning about the ups and downs first-hand from Nicole and Kara. Moms deserve all the credit for doing the hardest job in the world.
Guests:@karaellenkim / @nicky_t_
We talk to entrepreneur Sara Kelly and get her perspective on starting and growing multiple businesses. She has a lot of love for malas, crystals, the environment and finding inner peace.
Sara Kelly Designs / @sarakellydesigns
Conscious Goods Collective / @consciousgoodscollective
Book: Earth is Hiring by Peta Kelly
We dive deep into wine, literally. Jess is the Wine Director at Bar Kismet in Halifax. She brings us through a wine tasting and teaches us things to look for, gives ideas on what wines to try and shares her signature tasting techniques. We also learn more about Jess's journey through the hospitality business, the businesses she's started and her cool new gig.
Show Notes:
Wines Tasted:
Red: Forstreiter, Zvy-Gelt Zweigelt
Prince Charles’ wine-car: the Aston Martin Volante
This week we are joined by Pusha T Coady (AKA Colin Coady) to unpack how he keeps things even in his relationship, and what inspires him to create interesting artwork while being a full-time criminal lawyer.
Connect with Colin & see his art: @pushatcoady
On our debut episode of Rival & Queen, we are joined by our friend Katie Barnstead. Discussing how she navigated her most embarrassing moment with her dog Rory, dating in your 30s, and how much we love the Obama's! Be sure to subscribe! Stay updated on our latest banter.
Connect with Katie: @katiebarnst
Let us introduce the Rival & Queen podcast! Hosts Ashley & Sarah tell you what the podcast is all about in a quick snippet to kick it off.
Join these two Canadian women as they chat with friends and young professionals to learn all the things they ought to know in their 30s.
Connect with them @rivalandqueen