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In this episode of the Our Two Cents Podcast, Aja and Aaron sit down with Marae, a travel influencer, entrepreneur, and mother of two, who shares her inspiring journey from Cuba to becoming a full-time traveler. Now living in Spain, Marae has explored over 90 countries and brings a wealth of insight into what it means to raise a family on the road.

She opens up about the challenges and rewards of traveling with her two young daughters (ages 5 and 1), the importance of building community while living abroad, and how travel has shaped her family’s values. Marae also runs the popular Instagram account @bravefamilytravel, where she not only documents their adventures but teaches others how to monetize their own content and create freedom through social media.

This conversation explores the power of self-belief, the evolution of dreams and goals as a family, and why choosing experiences over possessions can lead to a more fulfilling life.

Follow our podcast & hosts on Instagram: @ourtwocentspod_ / @ajajanene_ / @aaron_pauls

And Youtube: @our.two.cents.podcasting

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to a Unique Lifestyle

06:02 The Spark of Adventure: Early Travels

12:00 Building a Business Around Travel

17:51 The Importance of Self-Belief and Identity

24:30 Embracing Change and Overcoming Fear

30:29 The Impact of Parenthood on Life Choices

39:58 Unique Travel Experiences and Cultural Insights

45:41 The Perspective Shift: Understanding Global Challenges

51:53 Traveling with Children: Lessons in Adaptability

Takeaways

• Social media can be a powerful tool for connection.
• Traveling can change your perspective on life.
• It's important to follow your dreams, regardless of societal norms.
• Traveling with children can teach them resilience and adaptability.
• Experiences are more valuable than material possessions.
• Overcoming doubts is crucial for personal growth.
• Travel can provide a broader perspective on different cultures.
• Building a community is essential for support during travels.
• Entrepreneurship requires self-belief and determination.
• Traveling can help clarify personal priorities and values.

In this inspiring conversation, we sit down with JC Chamberlain — entrepreneur, endurance athlete, and thought leader — to explore the mindset behind a life of resilience, self-mastery, and impact. JC opens up about how his early life experiences and family dynamics forged his competitive spirit and shaped his philosophy on personal growth. He introduces the concept of emotional wealth, a holistic approach to well-being that spans far beyond financial success.

With a career that spans billion-dollar commercial real estate management, global nonprofit leadership, and scaling multiple tech-driven companies in health and wellness, JC brings a rare blend of business acumen and human insight. We also dive into his athletic pursuits — from national championships in cycling and rowing to a miraculous recovery after surviving a 55 mph car collision while riding his bike. Whether you're an entrepreneur, parent, or high-performer in any field, this episode offers powerful reflections on navigating uncertainty, competing with your past self, and living a truly balanced life.

You can find JC at his website: https://antidotethebook.com

Follow our podcast/hosts on Instagram!

@ourtwocentspod_

@ajajanene_

@aaron_pauls

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to JC Chamberlain's Journey

01:25 Resilience and Overcoming Setbacks

07:25 The Role of Competition and Self-Improvement

19:46 Parenting and Empathy in Development

27:18 Reconnecting with Family and Personal Growth

33:00 Transitioning from Nuclear Energy to Business Ventures

36:43 Navigating Market Challenges and Innovations

40:09 Collaborating for Success: Lessons from the Veterinary Industry

46:40 The Power of Letting Go and Team Dynamics

49:07 The Journey of Recovery: Insights from a Life-Altering Accident

57:00 Building Emotional Wealth: The Framework for a Fulfilling Life

01:06:01 Long-Term Thinking: The Key to Life Satisfaction

Takeaways

• Success leaves clues that can guide us.
• Life is not going to go your way, prepare for it.
• Crashing is part of racing; it's about getting back up.
• Self-competition is more valuable than competing against others.
• Societal standards have shifted towards lower expectations.
• Reconnecting with family can lead to personal growth.
• Emotional wealth is crucial for a fulfilling life.
• We all have resources to draw upon in times of need.
• It's important to let go of past mistakes to move forward.
• Life is a marathon, not a sprint; patience is key.

In this heartfelt conversation, Aaron and Aja share their exciting news about expecting a third child. They discuss the reactions of their two older children, Baker and Luca, and how they approached sharing the news with them. The couple reflects on their experiences with pregnancy and birth, their preferences regarding the gender of their new baby, and the dynamics of parenting with a larger family. They express their excitement for the future and the unique experiences that come with welcoming a new child into their lives.

Follow along with us!

Instagram: @ourtwocentspod_ / @ajajanene_ / @aaron_pauls

Youtube: @our.two.cents.podcasting

Chapters

00:00 Exciting Family News

02:54 Sharing the News with Kids

05:56 Reactions from the Children

09:09 Anticipation of Pregnancy

11:57 Expectations of Birth

14:58 Gender Preferences and Family Dynamics

17:51 Reflections on Parenting

21:00 Looking Forward to the Future

24:00 Final Thoughts and Excitement

Takeaways

• They are expecting a third child in December.
• The couple wanted to tell their kids first before sharing the news.
• Baker showed some disappointment about the new baby.
• Luca has been surprisingly excited about the pregnancy.
• Aja loves pregnancy and enjoys giving birth.
• Aaron looks forward to the newborn experience.
• The couple reflects on the differences in parenting dynamics with a larger family.
• They discuss their preferences for the baby's gender.
• The couple feels they surprised some people with the news.
• They are excited to savor the moments of the new baby as it will be their last.

In this episode, Aaron and Aja discuss their parenting journey, reflecting on their initial expectations versus the reality of raising two children. They share insights on the challenges of maternity leave, the impact of COVID-19 on their family dynamics, and the ongoing debate about schooling for their kids. The couple emphasizes the importance of communication, trust, and adapting their parenting styles to meet the unique needs of each child. They conclude with a commitment to fostering an open and supportive environment for their children as they navigate the complexities of parenting.

Follow us!

Instagram: @ourtwocentspod_ / @ajajanene_ / @aaron_pauls

Youtube: @our.two.cents.podcasting

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Parenting Perspectives

10:12 The Maternity Leave Crisis

16:05 Shifting Priorities During COVID-19

32:39 Lessons from Competitive Golf

38:59 Parenting Styles and Authority

45:57 Setting High Standards for Kids

51:17 The Importance of Communication in Parenting

Takeaways

• Parenting expectations often differ from reality.
• Maternity leave can lead to unexpected challenges.
• COVID-19 shifted priorities for many families.
• Flexibility in parenting is crucial for family dynamics.
• Deciding on schooling involves weighing various factors.
• Communication is key in understanding children's needs.
• Every child is unique and requires different approaches.
• Building trust with children starts early in parenting.
• Parents should strive to be a safe space for their kids.
• Parenting styles evolve as children grow and develop.

In this episode, Aja and Aaron discuss the importance of mentorship in personal and professional growth. They share their experiences with mentors, the value of being open-minded, and how mentorship can come from various sources. The conversation highlights the significance of seeking guidance, the fulfillment of mentoring others, and the role of passion in attracting mentors. They also explore how books and podcasts can serve as valuable resources for learning and growth.

Follow Us!

Instagram: @ourtwocentspod_ / @ajajanene_ / @aaron_pauls

Youtube: @our.two.cents.podcasting

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Recent Guests

05:50 Personal Experiences with Mentors

12:01 The Role of Mentorship in Personal Growth

18:06 Finding Mentorship in Unconventional Ways

24:00 Books and Resources as Mentors

32:30 Empowering Through Mentorship

37:36 The Importance of Credibility in Mentorship

47:56 The Joy of Mentoring

Takeaways

• Mentorship can come from various sources, including parents and peers.
• Being a mentor is as valuable as being mentored.
• Open-mindedness is crucial for effective mentorship.
• Experience often outweighs formal credentials in mentorship.
• Books and podcasts can serve as valuable mentors.
• Mentoring others can be fulfilling and rewarding.
• Passion is key to attracting mentors.
• Mentorship is a two-way street; both parties learn.
• The journey of mentorship can lead to personal growth.
• Sharing experiences can help others navigate their paths.

In this conversation, Aaron and Aja discuss with Roger Friesen the intricacies of performance psychology, its evolution from sports psychology, and its application across various fields. Roger shares insights on managing emotions, the importance of focus, and the role of silence in communication. He emphasizes the significance of empowering others through guidance rather than simply providing answers. The discussion also touches on the characteristics of high performers and the unique experiences at the Olympics, highlighting the cultural exchange and personal growth that comes from such events.

Roger Friesen has been working as a mental training consultant for the past 20 years with many National level and Olympic teams and athletes. This has involved working with athletes in preparation for Olympic, Commonwealth and Pan Am Games as well as many world championships. Over the years, Roger’s work as a sport psychology consultant has also included work with those in the performing arts – musicians, actors and ballet. Roger also taught the sports psychology stream of courses he developed at the University of the Fraser Valley for over 2 decades.

Follow us!

Instagram: @ourtwocentspod_ / @ajajanene_ / @aaron_pauls / @rogerfriesen

Youtube: @our.two.cents.podcasting

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Performance Psychology

05:46 Managing Emotions in Sports

11:52 Task Focus vs. Outcome Focus

17:58 The Importance of Team Dynamics

39:35 The Power of Silence in Conversations

45:07 Empowering Through Guidance, Not Answers

50:13 Characteristics of High Performers

57:18 The Olympic Experience: Unity in Diversity

Takeaways

• Performance psychology includes mental and emotional training.
• Managing emotions is crucial for optimal performance.
• The pre-shot routine in sports starts before the action.
• Focus on tasks rather than outcomes to avoid choking.
• Silence can facilitate deeper conversations.
• Empowering others involves guiding them to find their own answers.
• High performers often share traits like discipline and passion.
• The mundanity of excellence is essential for success.
• The Olympics serve as a platform for cultural understanding.
• Traveling enhances appreciation for diverse cultures.

In this engaging conversation, Taylor Callens shares his unique experiences from competing on The Amazing Race Canada with his sister, the challenges they faced, and how it strengthened their bond. He discusses the behind-the-scenes aspects of the show, the cultural shocks encountered during their travels, and the lessons learned from the competition. Taylor also reflects on his career in policing, emphasizing the importance of mental health support for first responders and the value of open communication in resolving conflicts. The discussion highlights personal growth, teamwork, and the impact of life experiences on shaping one's perspective.

Follow us!

Instagram - @ourtwocentspod_ / @ajapauls_ / @aaron_pauls

Youtube - @our.two.cents.podcasting

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:11 The Amazing Race Canada Experience

07:41 Training and Preparation for the Race

11:30 Team Dynamics and Challenges

17:14 Cultural Experiences and Language Barriers

20:00 Adventures with Snakes and Wildlife

22:59 The Thrill of Competition

24:02 Final Challenges and Unexpected Twists

28:58 Behind the Scenes of Reality TV

34:07 Insights from Law Enforcement

36:30 Awareness and Desensitization in Law Enforcement

39:11 The Art of De-escalation

41:49 Communication as a Conflict Resolution Tool

45:27 Learning Through Experience

51:50 Coping Mechanisms for First Responders

Takeaways

• Taylor and his sister applied for The Amazing Race Canada on a whim.
• The application process involved a video submission and in-person interviews.
• Competing on the show was a unique experience that strengthened their bond as siblings.
• The challenges faced during the race tested their teamwork and communication skills.
• Cultural shocks were significant, especially during their time in Indonesia.
• The final challenge was intense and took place in Banff, Canada.
• Taylor's experience in policing has shaped his perspective on life and communication.
• Mental health support is crucial for first responders, and Taylor advocates for it.
• Confrontation doesn't have to be negative; open communication can resolve issues.
• Taylor emphasizes the importance of talking to people to understand their perspectives.

In this conversation, Aaron and Aja discuss various life hacks that have helped them navigate personal and professional challenges. They explore the importance of self-care, the impact of environment on personal growth, the significance of community, and the necessity of choosing the right partner. They also touch on the power of saying no, leveraging resources for efficiency, and integrating life with business to create a fulfilling lifestyle.

Follow along with us!

Instagram: @ourtwocentspod_ / @ajajanene_ / @aaron_pauls

Youtube: @our.two.cents.podcasting

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Life Hacks Overview

01:00 Self-Care and Daily Routines

05:59 Changing Your Environment for Growth

11:03 Finding Your Community

13:57 Choosing the Right Partner

19:59 Setting Boundaries and Saying No

25:11 Using Leverage in Life

26:01 Leveraging Efficiency for Success

38:21 Integrating Life and Business

44:49 Conclusion and Future Conversations

Takeaways

• Getting ready every day boosts self-confidence.
• Changing your environment can facilitate personal growth.
• Finding a supportive community is essential for expansion.
• Choosing the right partner significantly impacts your life.
• Learning to say no can lead to inner peace.
• Leveraging resources can save time and increase efficiency.
• Integrating life and business can enhance fulfillment.
• Self-care is crucial for maintaining mental health.
• Healthy relationships are a determinant of happiness.
• Efficiency allows for more effective use of time.