Shannon

01/28/2025

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🔗 Click the link below to join us on Substack and be part of something extraordinary. Let’s inspire change together!

Your voice matters. Your story belongs. Let’s build this community together. 💛

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01/12/2025

At Women’s Shelters Canada, we’ve been following the news about Meta’s changes this week to third-party fact-checking and its hateful conduct policy. Online, women and gender-diverse people, particularly racialized, Indigenous, and 2SLGBTQ+ people, experience higher incidents of trolling and hate speech. Gender-based violence thrives on a foundation of misogyny. These changes embolden abusers to post their discriminatory and hateful thoughts. Women, gender-diverse people, and survivors are more likely to remove themselves from online spaces to keep themselves safe. We will continue to monitor these changes to Meta as they affect our work.

12/20/2024

Can you relate to this in your own life? How to Recognize a Narcissistic Apology: Breaking Down Manipulative Language

Let's break down this "apology" from Dennis Rodman. Recently in the news, Dennis Rodman issued a public apology to his estranged daughter Trinity Rodman after the U.S. Women’s National Soccer Team star opened up about their relationship on a podcast, saying her NBA father is “not a dad” and that his relationship with her is “by blood but nothing else.”

Breaking it down:

Sometimes, apologies don’t feel like apologies at all. They can leave you confused, guilty, or even more frustrated than before. These types of statements often come from individuals who may unintentionally (or intentionally) centre themselves in the conversation. Let’s break down a real-world example and learn how to spot the signs of a narcissistic apology so you can protect your emotional boundaries.

The Example:
"Sorry I wasn’t the Dad you wanted me to be, but either way, I still tried and I still try and never will stop. I will keep trying even when you’re being told as an adult not to respond to my phone calls. I always had one wish and it was I wish my kids would call me and come see me. Hopefully, one day I can get that. Pick up the phone, you have my number. You see me calling, I’m still here."

Why This Feels Off:
This apology may seem heartfelt at first glance, but a closer look reveals red flags of emotional manipulation. Instead of taking responsibility or validating the other person’s feelings, it focuses on the speaker's experience, using guilt and victimhood to demand attention. Here’s how:

1. False Accountability
"Sorry I wasn’t the Dad you wanted me to be, but either way, I still tried and I still try."
The speaker starts with an apology but quickly deflects by justifying their actions. This diminishes the sincerity of the statement, turning the focus from their shortcomings to how much effort they’ve put in.

What to Watch For:
Look for a quick pivot from acknowledging harm to self-praise or justification.

2. Victim Narrative
"I will keep trying even when you’re being told as an adult not to respond to my phone calls."
By blaming external forces (e.g., "someone told you not to respond"), the speaker avoids addressing why the recipient might not want to communicate. This reframing casts the speaker as the victim instead of acknowledging the recipient’s autonomy.

What to Watch For:
Statements that paint the speaker as powerless against "unfair" circumstances while ignoring their role in the conflict.

3. Guilt-Tripping
"I always had one wish, and it was I wish my kids would call me and come see me."
While it sounds like a simple wish, this phrasing shifts the emotional burden onto the recipient. The implication is that their lack of action is withholding the speaker’s happiness.

What to Watch For:
Statements that make you feel responsible for someone else’s emotional well-being, especially when tied to their "suffering."

4. Centre of Attention
"I’m still here, I’m still trying, pick up the phone."
Rather than focusing on how the recipient feels or why boundaries exist, the speaker repeatedly highlights their own efforts. This makes the apology feel more like a demand for recognition than an acknowledgment of harm.

What to Watch For:
Repetition of “I” and “me,” with little or no attention to your feelings.

5. Martyr Complex
"I actually flew in to watch you play… so I watched from my hotel balcony just to make everybody happy."
The speaker portrays themselves as self-sacrificing, using this example to elicit pity. Instead of addressing why their presence might have caused discomfort, they paint themselves as misunderstood or unfairly treated.

What to Watch For:
References to grand gestures, sacrifices, or “noble” efforts meant to guilt you into reconsidering their intentions.

6. Performative Love
"I love all my kids."
While love is important, repeatedly emphasising it in an apology can feel performative, as though the speaker is trying to bypass accountability. It suggests their love should outweigh any mistakes or hurt they’ve caused.

What to Watch For:
Statements that attempt to overshadow valid grievances with declarations of affection.

How to Respond:
If you receive a message like this, it’s important to hold your boundaries. An effective response might look like this:

Acknowledge their feelings but redirect the focus.

Example: "I appreciate your efforts, but I need us to address what caused this distance in the first place. Let’s have an honest conversation when you’re ready to listen."

➔Stay firm in your boundaries.
Example: "I’m not ready to reconnect right now, but I’ll reach out when I feel ready."

Key Takeaways:
A narcissistic apology often focuses more on the speaker’s emotions and struggles than on genuine accountability. Look for these signs:

➔Justification of actions rather than full acceptance of fault.
➔Shifting blame to external factors or others.
➔Emotional manipulation through guilt, pity, or demands for recognition.

Empower Yourself:
Recognising these patterns allows you to step back and protect your emotional well-being. Remember, a true apology:

➔Centres your feelings, not theirs.
➔Accepts responsibility without justification.
➔Focuses on actions to repair the relationship, not demands for recognition.

By learning to spot the difference, you can respond with clarity and maintain healthy boundaries.

11/29/2024

Celebrating Boldness: PWHL Season 2 is Here! 🏒

The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) is back for its second season, and it’s bigger and bolder than ever! With the campaign "Here’s to the Bold," the PWHL is spotlighting the incredible talent of its players, the passion of its fans, and the exciting energy that women’s hockey brings to the sport.

This season, fans of all ages can make a difference by supporting women’s hockey. Whether cheering live at the rink, tuning in from home, or spreading the word online, every voice helps grow the game and inspire future generations.

Can’t make it to a game in person? No worries! Here’s how to catch the action:

TSN: 57 regular-season games on TV, TSN.ca, TSN+, and the TSN app.
CBC: 17 Saturday afternoon games on CBC TV, CBC Gem, and cbcsports.ca.
Prime Video: 16 Tuesday night games, exclusively.
French coverage: 18 games on RDS, 6 games on Radio-Canada (ICI TÉLÉ and ICI TOU.TV), and 5 on Prime Video.
YouTube (US): Select games streaming online.
And don’t miss the playoffs! One semifinal series will air on TSN and RDS, the other on Prime Video, with the PWHL Finals exclusively on TSN and RDS.

Women’s hockey is about more than the game—it’s about breaking barriers, redefining possibilities, and uniting communities worldwide. So, grab your jerseys, tune in, and join the celebration of this incredible league.

Here’s to the bold. 🏆 Let’s make this season unforgettable!



Check out theirfull schedule ➡️ bit.ly/2425PWHLSchedule

10/23/2024

Well done players! Some incredible PWHL players here to represent us. Congratulations on this recognition by the incredible management and leaders. Go Canada Go!

Here;s part of their press release:

National Women’s Team roster unveiled for first leg of Rivalry Series
Team Canada to face United States starting Nov. 6 in San Jose, California
NR.072.24|October 23, 2024

2024-25 National Women’s Team

CALGARY, Alberta – Hockey Canada has announced the 25 players who will wear the Maple Leaf with Canada’s National Women’s Team for the first three games of the 2024-25 Rivalry Series, starting Nov. 6 in San Jose, California.

Three goaltenders, eight defence and 14 forwards were selected by general manager Gina Kingsbury (Rouyn-Noranda, QC/Toronto, PWHL), head coach Troy Ryan (Spryfield, NS/Toronto, PWHL) and Cherie Piper (Scarborough, ON), senior manager of player development and scouting. Assistant coaches Kori Cheverie (New Glasgow, NS/Montréal, PWHL), Caroline Ouellette (Montréal, QC/Concordia University, RSEQ) and Britni Smith (Port Perry, ON/Syracuse University, CHA), along with goaltending consultant Brad Kirkwood (Calgary, AB/Toronto, PWHL), also provided input.

“The 2025 IIHF Women’s World Championship is only six months away, and getting a look at our team and roster depth begins with these first three games,” said Kingsbury. “These teams know each other very well, but we still have an opportunity to build on what we worked on at September camp as we evaluate ourselves now and throughout the season.”

The roster includes 21 players who helped Canada win its 13th gold medal at the 2024 IIHF Women’s World Championship (Ambrose, Bell, Bourbonnais, Campbell, Clark, Desbiens, Fast, Fillier, J. Gosling, Jenner, Larocque, Maltais, Maschmeyer, Nurse, O’Neill, Poulin, Rattray, Serdachny, Shelton, Stacey, Turnbull).

Canada has won the Rivalry Series in back-to-back seasons, winning the final four games in 2023 and 2024 to secure victory in seven games. Since the start of the Rivalry Series during the 2018-19 season, Canada holds a 15-13 advantage over the Americans.

For more information on Hockey Canada and Canada’s National Women’s Team, please visit HockeyCanada.ca or follow along via social media on Facebook, X, Instagram and TikTok.

10/22/2024

Each time a woman stands up for herself, she stands up for all women.” – Maya Angelou

10/16/2024

Whether you’re striving for personal growth, empowering others, or making an impact in your community, this space is for you. ✨

Here, we believe in:
🔥 Breaking barriers and creating opportunities for everyone
🔥 Empowering women, advocating for diversity, and leading with purpose
🔥 Making our communities and businesses stronger through mentorship and meaningful action

As a social entrepreneur and a mentor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve seen first-hand the power of collective impact. Now, my mission is to inspire change globally and help others realize their potential—because we all deserve a world where diversity is celebrated and everyone’s voice matters.

Follow for stories, tips, and inspiration to create lasting change in your life, your business, and your community.

Together, let’s and build a better future!

🔔 Hit follow to join the movement of empowerment and inclusion.

10/15/2024

Join me on this journey of i
Let’s work together to create a world where diversity is celebrated and impact is felt!

"Inspiring change starts with the courage to dream and the commitment to act."

Every significant transformation in our lives or communities begins with a vision—an idea of what could be, rather than what is. It takes courage to dream beyond the boundaries set by societal norms, personal limitations, and past experiences. Dreams are the seeds of innovation; they challenge the status quo and envision a better future.

However, dreaming alone is not enough. Change requires a commitment to action, an unwavering determination to turn those dreams into reality. This means stepping outside of our comfort zones, taking risks, and confronting obstacles head-on. It involves making deliberate choices that align with our values and aspirations, whether it’s advocating for equity, supporting marginalized communities, or working towards personal growth.

When we blend courage with action, we empower ourselves and inspire others to do the same. Each step we take toward our dreams not only moves us closer to achieving our goals but also creates a ripple effect, encouraging those around us to pursue their own aspirations. By fostering a culture of courage and commitment, we can collectively drive the change we wish to see in the world.

Ultimately, inspiring change is a continuous journey, fueled by our dreams and sustained by our actions. Together, we can build a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive, and where our dreams of equity, inclusion, and empowerment become a shared reality.

10/07/2024

Kudos to VOLT Hockey Canada for their commitment to inclusive hockey. They were recently in Barrie and if follow their page see they have several various upcoming events. They also have a Sensory Backpack Program that supports children with sensory processing disabilities (available in some locations).

They're looking for players, volunteers, sponsors, ambassadors and more

Link below

VOLT Hockey Canada Variety Ontario is proud to present VOLT Hockey. This exciting accessible sport is the ultimate team opportunity for children with a disability. VOLT Hockey has a fresh...

09/27/2024

"If you change nothing, nothing will change" is a powerful reminder that growth and progress require action. If we stay in our comfort zone, repeating the same habits, patterns, or environments, we can't expect different results. Change takes courage, effort, and sometimes discomfort—but it's the only way to move forward and create the outcomes we truly want.

Whether it’s in your career, relationships, or personal development, doing the same thing over and over won't bring about new opportunities or success. Taking that first step to break the cycle is crucial for real transformation.

Be kind to you

09/25/2024

These adorable ones with the collaboration with Barbie and the PWHL. They've made some more sizes available. Now, these are youth but I got an XL. It's a little snug for "the girls" and around the neck, just sayin ;)

If you want to make a great gift for that little one in your life (or perhaps yourself), these are great quality and I love them too

https://ca.shop.thepwhl.com/products/pwhl-barbie-chasing-dreams-youth-hoodie

Dream big and stay warm with the PWHL x Barbie White Hoodie, showcasing the inspiring "Chasing Dreams" graphic on the front and the PWHL x Barbie logo on the sleeve. Crafted from a cotton/polyester heavy blend, this hoodie features a cozy, brushed interior and a classic fit, making it ideal for any....

09/25/2024

Another one of my most favourite shirts available done by an artist that represents diversity in hockey. These were done for International Women's Day and of course, Women Making History

Shop official merchandise from the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) and the Original Six teams. Replica jerseys, hoodies, and collectible items are available now and new items will be added to the merchandise collection throughout the season. Shipping available to Canada and the U.S.

09/25/2024

If I recall correctly, I think some friends said they wanted PWHL toques? They've restocked and now have 4 different styles online. You're lucky now because there's a designated Canadian site now and shouldn't be charged custom/duty fees. Here's the link below.

You're welcome. I've been dubbed the PWHL Merch Queen. I'm ok with that lol

Shop official merchandise from the Professional Women's Hockey League (PWHL) and the Original Six teams. Replica jerseys, hoodies, and collectible items are available now and new items will be added to the merchandise collection throughout the season. Shipping available to Canada and the U.S.

09/13/2024

Finding Strength in Difficult Times

Life has its way of challenging us when we least expect it, but it’s in those moments we often discover our true strength. When facing difficulties, we sometimes need to pause, reflect, and dig deep to keep going.

I know one thing for sure, this week has not been an easy one, at all, BUT the difference is having the right people around who support, were patient, giving, loving and kind.

Here's what we can do during those difficult times:

1️⃣ Focus on What You Can Control:
Life can feel overwhelming, but by focusing on the things we can change, we regain our power. Small, purposeful steps make a big difference. Don't be afraid to decompress and switch off for that moment of self care.

2️⃣ Lean on Your Community:
Never hesitate to reach out. Whether it's family, friends, or support groups—your community can lift us up when we feel low.

3️⃣ Self-Compassion:
Be kind to yourself. You’re doing the best you can, and giving yourself grace helps you get through the hardest days.

We all have the strength within us to rise above, but sometimes we need a little help finding it. Don't face your struggles alone—reach out, connect, and happens together.

Let’s start a conversation. How do you find strength during tough times? Let me know in the comments or DM if you need someone to talk to.

09/01/2024

Honestly, AI has made me nicer. I say this to my team and friends all the time. Of course, I always add my own tweaks (as in the case below). It takes my sarcastic reply that could come off via text or email as a smarta$$, condescending or rude from "not a chance would my clients accept that lowball offer $300k off the asking price when you haven't seen or analyzed the property or income" to:

"Thank you for your interest in my listing. While I appreciate your blind offer of $635,000, that’s a good entry-level starting point. Let’s discuss how agency and representation work, and explore a path forward that aligns with your investment goals while also reflecting the property’s true value.

Looking forward to discussing this further."

08/31/2024

She's 11. And the first ever to be given permission to play a Metallica song on AGT and owned it. Love her own spin and ouuuu those riffs. Enjoy

AGT Master of Puppets - Maya Neelakantan (Full Song)

How inspiring. What were we doing at 11? I think I was doing hopscotch when I wasn't training to dance lol