My Journey with Authentic Self-Compassion

As I reflect on the past year, I am filled with gratitude for the many blessings in my life.

A year ago around World Mental Health Day, Alberta teachers were on strike, leaving me concerned about the mental well-being of my colleagues, students, and parents. At the same time, I was navigating my own mental and emotional well-being while managing exhaustion from thyroid issues.

Driven by a passion to support those in need, I began brainstorming ways to make a difference, which ultimately sparked the idea for Authentic Self-Compassion. As a lifelong learner who loves reading and attending conferences, I set out to build an online health and wellness community. My goal was to host virtual keynote speakers and authors while supporting non-profit organizations. I envisioned an engaging Webinar space where participants could directly connect with our guests, keeping membership fees affordable to ensure these resources remain accessible to all. I also envisioned hosting a podcast where real, authentic people could share their stories, including their greatest challenges, triumphs, and tribulations.

To be completely honest, putting myself out there was intimidating! Self-doubt quickly began to set in. 

• What if people think this is a dumb idea? 

• What if no one signs up and becomes a member? 

• What if I can not find any keynote speakers and authors who would be interested in dedicating their time? 

I leaned heavily on my husband—my biggest supporter—as I navigated these uncertain feelings. To hold myself accountable and ensure everything was set up properly for incoming members, I decided to formally incorporate Authentic Self-Compassion as a business. Investing in legal fees felt like a necessary commitment to keep moving forward despite my apprehensions. 

Setting a January launch date, I reached out to Nicole Jones from Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre to propose a collaboration on a "Be Authentic" campaign. Believing deeply in CACAC's mission, I was eager to make my very first donation to their organization. I remember being nervous speaking with Nicole, first on the phone and then proposing my pitch in person. Nicole Jones saw my passion and wanted to help! 

From October to January, I immersed myself in research, making calls, sending emails, and connecting with potential guest speakers. I began by reviewing the self-help books that had made a meaningful impact on my life and reaching out directly to their authors. I was astounded to learn that everyone I spoke with wanted to support Authentic Self-Compassion!

I am forever grateful to my 2026 lineup of speakers: Deena Kordt, Dr. Jody Carrington, Janice Gallant, Darci Lang, Adrianne Vangool, Darren Lang, Jessica Janzen, Jodee Prouse, Dr. Robyne Hanley Dafoe, Shelly Prosko and Corliss Rassyle.

My deepest gratitude also goes out to everyone who joined us on the “Let’s Be Authentic” podcast to share their stories, vulnerability, and powerful messages of hope and resilience. Special thanks to Kurt Sacher from Sacher Solutions, Danica Martin, Nick Motycka, Lisa Ormann, Cody and Kianna Krebs, Christie Polson, and Chantal Thorburn!

Thank you to the Central Alberta Child Advocacy Centre, Canadian Mental Health Association Central Alberta, Dress For Success Red Deer, and the Red Deer Food Bank for collaborating with me on the “Be Authentic” campaigns!

Finally, I am deeply grateful to my family and friends, whose constant encouragement empowered me to pursue my passion and create a service dedicated to mental and emotional well-being. Thanks to that support, I am thrilled to share that our online community has grown to 67 members! Thank you for helping spread the word so even more people can experience the benefits of Authentic Self-Compassion.

In closing, I wanted to remind people to follow us on social media. You can view our videos on www.authenticselfcompassion and www.youtube.com/authenticity4u 

I am excited to tell you that I am working on our 2027 lineup of authors and keynote speakers for the "Be Authentic" Webinar Virtual Stage, alongside our "Let's Be Authentic" Podcast guests who will be sharing their inspiring, real-life stories! It is going to be epic!