Trust Me I'm a Decorator

In this reflective episode, Tommy and Debbie discuss their 2024 highlights and experiences including both personal milestones and their most impactful conversations with their podcast guests. They explore themes of creativity, the significance of live experiences, and the healing power of art, travel, writing, design and gardening. Listen to any conversation from this year's podcast at www.thetrustmepod.com and revisit the specific conversations mentioned in this episode below: https://www.thetrustmepod.com/jeanne-beker/ https://www.thetrustmepod.com/frances-mayes-a-great-marriage/ https://www.thetrustmepod.com/chef-lynn-crawford/ https://www.thetrustmepod.com/anya-the-money-saving-gardener/ https://www.thetrustmepod.com/genevieve-gorder/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host Debbie Travis and Tommy Smythe are your personal travel advisors in this episode, detailing their favourite (and cost-effective) ways to enjoy the holiday season while travelling. They share their favourite holiday experiences in London and New York. You don't have to break the bank, but they will give you tips on everything from budget-friendly to luxury adventures. From The Plaza Hotel in New York to Kew Gardens' enchanting displays in London, this conversation is a delightful guide for anyone looking to celebrate the holidays in style. They highlight many iconic locations, dining options, and cultural events. They also share tips for public transit, music, and accomdations. Here's a list of their favourite travel spots mentioned. NEW YORK: St. Patrick’s Cathedral FAO Schwarz The Plaza Hotel The Mark Hotel The Carlyle Hotel - Bemelmans Bar LONDON: At Sloane Hotel Sloane Gardens London SW3 Colbert Bistro – Sloane Square Petersham Nurseries The Wolsey Restaurant Richmond Park Colbert Bistro Bond Street Regent Street Kew Gardens Battersea Power Station The Ham Yard Claridge's Selfridges Keep up with Debbie and Tommy: https://www.thetrustmepod.com/ https://www.instagram.com/thetrustmepod/ Chapters (00:00) Christmas Countdown: Anticipation and Excitement (01:08) Exploring London: A Christmas Wonderland (02:11) Hidden Gems: Unique Places to Visit (06:13) At Sloan: A Luxurious Hotel Experience (10:39) New York Christmas: The Ultimate Experience (12:32) Staying in Style: Iconic Hotels in NYC (15:03) Affordable Adventures: Exploring London on a Budget (19:30) Kew Gardens: A Magical Light Display (22:03) Richmond Park: Nature and Wildlife (24:47) Petersham Nurseries: A Hidden Culinary Gem (25:39) Battersea Power Station: A Revitalized Landmark (26:31) Exploring London's Battersea Power Station and Riverside Attractions (27:59) Dining in London: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites (30:15) The Woolsey: A Culinary Experience (33:15) Navigating London's Christmas Crowds and Shopping Hotspots (37:17) Cultural Experiences: The Albert Hall and Unique Events (40:39) Christmas in New York: The Rockettes and Iconic Shows (42:20) Public Transport and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hosts Debbie Travis and Tommy Smythe welcome their former colleague Kirstine Stewart for a conversation about leadership and personal reinvention. Kirstine discusses her transformative career in the media and the importance of women in leadership roles. Kirstine also highlights the need for flexibility and self-awareness in career choices, advocating for personal fulfillment over societal expectations. She introduces a new course based on her book to help individuals navigate their careers effectively, emphasizing the need for individuals to define success on their own terms. More About Kirstine Stewart: An inspirational and transformational executive leading change, Kirstine has spent her career at the intersection of media, technology and digital transformation, core drivers of innovation and business growth. Kirstine was responsible for driving Twitter’s initial entry into Canada, pre-IPO, and was promoted to the corporate leadership in NYC as VP Media NA. As the head of the TV, radio and digital for the Canadian Broadcasting Company (CBC), Kirstine pioneered the broadcaster’s foray into digital media, catapulting ratings while delivering $1.1 billion in total revenue. At Alliance Atlantis, a Canadian media company with a large portfolio of lifestyle channels, she delivered 20% growth year-over-year for four consecutive years, positioning the company as an M&A play in which it was sold for $2.3 billion. Recruited to lead international broadcast programming for the Hallmark Channel, encompassing 30 channels and 80 countries, she successfully increased the subscriber base while expanding into new markets, the business was acquired by Sparrowhawk Media for $240 million due to her efforts. In her last role, Kirstine headed the Future of Media, Entertainment and Sport for the World Economic Forum and was a member of the executive committee. She also serves as an advisor to the Forum’s Young Global Leaders initiative. Kirstine is the author of Our Turn, an award winning, best seller focused on leadership published by Penguin RandomHouse. Internationally recognized as an industry leader she has been named to the The Power 50: Canada's Most Powerful Business People by Canadian Business in 2016, Person of the Year by Playback Magazine for 2012, Woman of the Year by Canadian Women in Communications, Media Player of the Year by Marketing Magazine, Canada's Top 40 Under 40 Award in 2007, among others. Our Turn VIP is a course and community, inviting people to take control of their careers by building a playbook that guides them to leverage their unique strengths and not compromise to “fit in”. Like the book Our Turn was; it’s the anti Lean In, because it acknowledges we face challenges not of our making when trying to navigate our work. Find out more about Kirstine, her course and book: https://ourturn.vip/ Our listeners can get an extra 20% off Kirstine's course with the code TRUSTME20 LinkedIn.com/in/kirstinestewart14/ https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/240504/our-turn-by-kirstine-stewart/9780345814647 Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to Kirsten Stewart (02:48) Navigating Career Paths and Opportunities (05:54) The Evolution of Media and Audience Engagement (08:59) Understanding Audience Needs in Content Creation (11:53) The Role of Women in Media (15:03) Career Transitions and Personal Growth (17:55) The Importance of Mentorship and Community (21:07) Defining Success on Your Own Terms (23:48) Creating Your Own Opportunities (26:51) The Impact of Personal Branding (29:56) Launching 'Our Turn' and Future Aspirations Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Debbie Travis and Tommy Smythe are thrilled to welcome Fashion television icon Jeanne Beker to the show this week! She shares her journey through the fashion industry, her experiences as a journalist, and the personal stories that shaped her life. From her early days in media to her battle with cancer, Jeanne reflects on the lessons learned. The discussion previews her memoir, 'Heart on My Sleeve,' which intertwines fashion with personal anecdotes. More About Jeanne Beker: Jeanne Beker was the host of the hit show Fashion Television, which aired in over 130 countries for twenty-seven years and was one of the most successful shows in Canadian TV history. Prior to that, she hosted the groundbreaking show The NewMusic and was a founding member of MuchMusic. A seasoned newspaper and magazine columnist, Jeanne was editor-in-chief of FQ and SIR magazines from 2003 to 2009. Currently, she is a frequent keynote speaker and style editor for TSC, where she hosts her eponymous show Style Matters. Jeanne has received honorary doctorates from St. Mary’s University and OCAD University. She was named to the Order of Canada in 2013, inducted into the American Marketing Association’s Hall of Legends in 2015, and received a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2016. Jeanne lives in Toronto, Canada. Order Jeanne Beker's new memoir Heart on My Sleeve: Stories from a Life Well Worn Follow along with Jeanne Beker on her website: https://www.jeannebeker.com/ Follow Jeanne Beker on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejeannebeker/?hl=en Follow Debbie & Tommy's podcast: https://www.instagram.com/thetrustmepod/ Watch some of the interviews referenced in this episode: Andy Summers & The Bath Tub: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X4DPoVtsw5Q Iggy Pop Being Too Cool: https://www.dailymotion.com/video/xthwpp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Debbie and Tommy welcome the fabulous Frances Mayes back to the podcast! The international bestselling author behind the now-classic Under the Tuscan Sun is back with a new book, and her third novel, A Great Marriage. When a perfect wedding is called off just days before the big event, it sends two people—and their families—reeling, in this poignant novel from the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Under the Tuscan Sun and Women in Sunlight. Dara Willcox, in New York for a weekend, meets Austin Clarke at an art gallery. If love at first sight can happen, it happens to them. These two vivid, ambitious people are on different courses—he’s British, working temporarily in New York. She’s from North Carolina, set on law school. They don’t care. They will make their lives together happen. At their April engagement dinner at Dara’s family home, her mother, Lee, sets a beautiful table, and the family and close friends gather to celebrate. Rich, Dara’s father, raises a toast. Suddenly, Lee spills the wine, a brilliant red stain splashing onto the tablecloth and onto Austin. Days later, Austin hears unsettling news from London that wrecks their plans. Dara abruptly cancels the wedding. She refuses to reveal the reason, not even to her best friends or her parents or grandmother, disrupting their family tradition of openness. As everyone knows, Lee and Rich have a great marriage, and Charlotte, her grandmother, had a colossal one, to the late Senator Mann. Charlotte literally wrote the book on the subject: She’s the author of international bestsellers on what makes a good or possibly a great marriage. While Dara escapes to California and Indigo Island, South Carolina, Austin, back in London, faces a major tragedy, the consequences of which are life-altering. But it’s Lee, Dara’s mother, whose impulsive visit to London alters their fate. With her signature warmth, humor, and incisive style, beloved author Frances Mayes creates a multigenerational probe into the complexity of love and the great mystery ride of marriage. A novel of casual choices and fateful consequences, A Great Marriage introduces two unforgettable families and the arrival of a stranger who rearranges their futures. Her other international bestsellers include Bella Tuscany, Everyday in Tuscany, A Year in the World, Women in Sunlight, and Bringing Tuscany Home, among others. She has written six books of poetry and The Discovery of Poetry. Debbie and Tommy also discuss her most recent cookbook, Pasta Veloce: Irresistibly Fast Recipes from Under the Tuscan Sun. Her books have been translated into more than fifty languages! She and her husband divide their time between North Carolina and Tuscany. Get A Great Marriage, a new novel by Frances Mayes HERE. Find out more about Frances Mayes and her work HERE. Follow along on social media: https://www.instagram.com/thetrustmepod/ Leave us a voice message on our website: https://www.thetrustmepod.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Chef Lynn Crawford discusses her move to the country, her passion for gardening, and her upcoming book. She emphasizes the joy of growing and cooking with fresh ingredients and the importance of sharing food with family and friends. Tommy and Debbie ask her about creating new communities through food and the benefits of planting food to live off your land. They also touch on the challenges of being a chef and the decision to leave the restaurant industry. Listeners also get to hear about Chef Lynn's upcoming plant-based cookbook. Chapters (00:00) Living a Connected Life: Chef Lynn Crawford's Journey to the Country (09:20) The Joy of Gardening: Teaching Children About Food (18:06) Preserving the Harvest: Tips for Preserving Tomatoes (23:57) The Generosity of Cooking: Sharing Food with Others (24:44) Creating New Communities Through Food (25:40) The Benefits of Working from Home (27:23) The Next Chapter: Leaving the Restaurant Industry (31:06) Surrounding Oneself with the Best People (48:26) Chef Lynn's Upcoming Plant-Based Cookbook More about Chef Lynn Crawford: Acclaimed Food Network celebrity chef and bestselling author, Chef Lynn Crawford has over 25 years of culinary experience, including many years as executive chef for the Four Seasons Hotels in Toronto and New York. One of the highest profile chefs in the country and a genuine household name, she is continually sought after as a dynamic host, public speaker, brand ambassador, spokesperson and mentor. Chef Lynn has released three best-selling cookbooks “Pitchin’ In” (2012), “At Home with Lynn Crawford” (2013) and the award winning “Farm to Chef” (2017). Chef Lynn is the winner of the 2017 Gourmand World Cookbook Award, and recipient of the 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award by Canada’s 100 Best. Chef Lynn starred in Food Network’s hit series Pitchin’ In, which was nominated for Gemini Awards, both as a series and for her dynamic hosting, in 2010, 2011 and 2013. She can also be seen competing as an Iron Chef in Kitchen Stadium on Iron Chef Canada. Chef Lynn has appeared as a competitor on Top Chef Masters and Iron Chef America. Chef Lynn was a regular judge on Top Chef Canada and Chopped Canada, co-host of The Great Canadian Cookbook and Restaurant Makeover and is an Expert on the Marilyn Denis Show. Chef Lynn, a longtime supporter of the farm-to-table movement and sustainability, is also the Chef Ambassador for Egg Farmers of Canada. She is a dedicated philanthropist, giving back by participating in several charitable initiatives. Follow her adventures on Instagram and Twitter or visit her website: https://cheflynncrawford.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode, Tommy Smythe interviews his dear friend Debbie Travis to celebrate the cover reveal of her next book, 'Laugh More: Stories from An Unexpected Life'. The book is a collection of funny and poignant stories from Debbie's life, with each story sparking memories from different stages of her life. She includes tales of her grandmother, her experiences in Italy, and her adventures in Vietnam. The book aims to bring joy and laughter to readers and remind them to find humour in life's ups and downs. She emphasizes the need for laughter and positivity in today's world and hopes that her book will bring joy to readers. She also touches on the artist who helped bring the stories to life through illustration! Find out more and pre-order the book: https://debbietravis.com/laugh-more/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Debbie and Tommy recap their recent cruise in Eastern Europe, specifically Budapest and Vienna. They share funny and memorable experiences, such as Tommy's adventure in a Turkish bath and their visit to the magnificent library in Vienna. They detail their delightful trip with Scenic Cruises Debbie and Sarah recap their recent river cruise experience, highlighting the beautiful destinations, the exceptional service from the staff, and the wonderful people they met along the way. They discuss the magical Rose Garden in Vienna, the hilarious incident of Debbie hanging from a branch, and the devoted butlers who made their trip memorable. They also share their travel mishaps, including a glass door mishap and lost luggage. Despite the challenges, they emphasize the joys of travel and the importance of exploring new places. Chapters (00:00) Introduction and Setting the Scene (08:44) Sailing Down the Danube and Arriving in Vienna (13:48) A Hilarious Library Misadventure (22:09) Exploring Beautiful Destinations on a River Cruise (24:24) Exceptional Service and Devoted Butlers (26:18) Travel Mishaps: Glass Doors and Lost Luggage (39:06) The Joys of Meeting New People and Experiencing Different Cultures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Debbie Travis and Tommy Smythe take a trip down memory late in honour of the upcoming North American Mother's Day (Debbie gets to celebrate twice). They explore the different dynamics of motherhood and the challenges and joys that come with it. They also share personal stories and anecdotes about their mothers, highlighting the impact they had on their lives. The two discuss parenting, discipline, generational differences, and some funny memories the importance of forgiveness and understanding, and the deep bond between mothers and their children. The conversation also touches on the changing dynamics of communication and technology over the years. Send in a voicenote with your favourite memories of your mom! Head to https://www.thetrustmepod.com/ and click on the black bar on the right hand side of the page to leave a message! You can also send a voicenote DM in Instagram @thetrustmepod Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Debbie Travis and Tommy Smythe welcome multi-platinum, award-winning singer, songwriter, actor, author, and fellow podcaster Jann Arden to the podcast! They discuss her debut novel The Bittlemores and her creative process; Jann shares that it took her about 13 years to write the book, starting with a simple idea and gradually adding to it over time. She emphasizes the importance of storytelling and the enjoyment she finds in pursuing different creative endeavours. The conversation also touches on the editing process and the challenges of letting go of certain ideas. They touch on some themes covered in the book including teenage pregnancy, abandonment, alcoholism and animal cruelty. Jann also explains how her book also looks at making better choices regarding animal welfare and industrial farming. The hosts share funny and hateful experiences from the internet. They emphasize the need for joy, laughter, and manners in online interactions. The conversation covers various topics including poverty, the impact of COVID-19, the value of hard work, the importance of being authentic, the significance of home, and the joy of planting and nurturing. They also talk about the sacrifices and challenges of their careers and the misconception of fame. The conversation emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment and finding joy in simple things. Topics The 13-Year Journey of 'The Bittlemores' The Challenges and Importance of the Editing Process The Joy of Storytelling: Jan Arden's Approach to Writing Awareness and Better Choices for Animal Welfare Funny and Hurtful Experiences with Online Hate Living Life to the Fullest and Exploring the World The Impact of Poverty and COVID-19 The Value of Hard Work and Authenticity The Significance of Home Finding Joy in Simple Things The Satisfaction of Planting and Nurturing Find out more about Jann Arden's The Bittlemores: https://www.jannarden.com/jann-arden-releases-new-novel-the-bittlemores/ Listen to The Jann Arden Podcast: https://www.jannardenpod.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode, Debbie and Tommy reflect on how important women are to society, in history, and in their lives. They touch on the traditional roles of women in society and the power of female friendship. The conversation also talks about embracing differences and striving for equality. From Frances Mayes to Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Debbie and Tommy also reflect on the changing roles of women in society, including the impact of women in politics, and the importance of supportive partnerships. They also explore the power of reversing traditional gender roles and the significance of trust and support in relationships. The conversation highlights the need to celebrate women's achievements and share success stories. They also announce another 'Ask Us Anything' episode with a live audience! Send in your questions at www.thetrustmepod.com! Topics Introduction and the Influence of Women The Importance of Coping and Support Gender Roles and Community The Power of Female Friendship Sharing Stories and Finding Inspiration The Multitudes of Women and Men The Influence of Women Throughout History The Changing Roles of Women The Influence of Women Behind the Scenes The Impact of Women in Politics Women Who Inspire Supportive Partnerships Reversing Traditional Gender Roles The Importance of Trust and Support Finding Balance in Relationships The Power of Sharing Success Stories Celebrating Women's Achievements Recording with a Live Studio Audience Recommendation: Conversations from a Long Marriage Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Debbie and Tommy discuss their experiences and feelings about Valentine's Day. They share childhood memories, embarrassing moments, and romantic gestures. Debbie talks about falling in love with Hans. Tommy talks about that time he walked into a hotel room to find something he wished he didn't...and reminds us not to go back to our exes. Outside of unfortunate Valentine's Day experiences, they also discuss how to keep romance alive and their plans for Valentine's Day. Finally, Debbie shares her chocolate mousse recipe from her latest book, Joy. Debbie's chocolate mousse recipe ingredients: 4 cups of whipping cream or heavy cream, 3 cups of chopped dark chocolate, a little over one pound. Icing powder Edible flowers or fresh mint. Directions: Pour the cream into a large bowl and whip with a whisk or electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Place the chocolate in a microwave safe bowl and microwave for 30 second intervals, stirring after each until all the pieces have melted and the mixture is hot and smooth. Alternatively, you can place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl and set it over a pot of boiling water and stir regularly until melted and smooth. While the chocolate is still melted, quickly fold in the whipped cream using a spatula, mixing gently and gradually until the mousse is fluffy and soft. Using a piping bag or Ziploc bag with a little hole in the corner, pipe the mousse into individual serving dishes and refrigerate for at least three hours until the mousse is chilled and the texture firm. When ready to serve, dust each portion with a little icing sugar and decorate with a little flour or some mint. Feel free to add the Debbie Travis touch; Grand Marnier. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the first episode of 2024, Debbie Travis & Tommy Smythe welcome back their friend and Nutritional Therapist Jacky Brown. A long-time friend to Debbie, Jacky is a graduate of the London College of Naturopathic Medicine, a qualified Nutritional Therapist, Dip CNM, and registered with BANT (British Association of Nutritional Therapists) CNHC. Jacky shares her insights on healthy eating and dispels common misconceptions. The conversation covers the Mediterranean diet, the importance of eating plants, the benefits of beans and lentils, navigating conflicting information and trusted sources, the importance of fermented foods, and making things at home like kombucha and kefir. Jackie emphasizes the need for a varied and balanced diet and provides practical tips for incorporating healthy habits into daily life. Then, they share their New Year's resolutions and commitments to improving their health. They emphasize the importance of creating healthy habits, being mindful, and tracking progress. They also discuss the significance of movement, exercise, and improving sleep. They encourage trying new recipes and foods and emphasize the importance of enjoying food without suffering. In this episode, Debbie and Jacky reference the following resources: https://drwilliamli.com/ https://zoe.com/ Find Jacky Brown's Kombucha recipe: https://www.thetrustmepod.com/new-year-new-habits/ Making Kombucha is a trial-and-error process and with experience you can increase or decrease the sugar and the flavourings. For inspiration read ‘The Art of Fermentation’ by Sandor Katz or Fermenting Food, Step by Step by Adam Elabd. www.jackybnutrition.com Instagram @jackybrownnutrition Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices