164 episodes

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review! 

Unpacked Podcast Tara Linsley, Evan Dewald

    • Education
    • 4.7 • 13 Ratings

Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review! 

    Beyond the Mountains: Medical Miracles and Stories of Hope with Dr. Manno

    Beyond the Mountains: Medical Miracles and Stories of Hope with Dr. Manno

    Welcome to a special series on Unpacked, where we journey to the vibrant and resilient nation of Haiti. In this series, we have the privilege of hearing from inspiring individuals who have not only grown up in this beautiful country but have dedicated their lives to positively impacting their communities.

    Join us as we sit down with Elio, Jessica, and Dr. Manno, leaders born in Haiti (two still living there) each with a unique story and perspective on life in Haiti. They graciously share their personal experiences, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Haitian culture, and emphasizing the immense joy that persists even in the face of challenging circumstances, including economic and political unrest.

    This week on Unpacked we are chatting with Dr. Manno. Dr. Manno in Haiti, a physician at Sante 2000 in Haut Limbe, Haiti. Dr. Manno specializes in diabetic care and works with the Evangelical Covenant Church of Canada. In this episode, we discuss Dr. Manno’s life story, lessons and learnings along the way from growing up in Haiti to becoming a doctor. Dr. Manno is one of the wisest people, a good friend and has had a long-standing relationship with Evan for many years. Dr. Manno shares how he learned English, his journey to becoming a doctor and his mission to serve his community and dispel myths and misinformation about illness in Haiti. He calls this his life mission and ministry work. He asks deep questions about community and neighbourhood and challenges us to what we want to be remembered for. Don't miss this episode into the heart of Haiti and with our dear friend. 
    LINKS
    -Donate + Support Haiti
    -Evangelical Covenant Church of Canada
    -Petite Anse Feeding Project Video (featuring Jessica)
    -More on Haiti: Dr. Manno's Episode part 1 and part 2
    -Unpacked Series - Shoulder to Shoulder
    -Unpacked Series - Everyday Enneagram
    -Unpacked Series - Adoption
    Support the show
    Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a rev
    Support the show
    Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

    Instagram:@theunpackedpod
    Facebook: @theunpackedpod
    unpackedpod.ca

    Support the show

    *music by Bensound

    • 1 hr 17 min
    Beyond Mountains: Lessons in Resilience and Grief in Haiti with Elio Dortilus

    Beyond Mountains: Lessons in Resilience and Grief in Haiti with Elio Dortilus

    Welcome to a special series on Unpacked, where we journey to the vibrant and resilient nation of Haiti. In this series, we have the privilege of hearing from inspiring individuals who have not only grown up in this beautiful country but have dedicated their lives to positively impacting their communities.

    Join us as we sit down with Elio, Jessica, and Dr. Manno, leaders born in Haiti (two still living there) each with a unique story and perspective on life in Haiti. They graciously share their personal experiences, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Haitian culture, and emphasizing the immense joy that persists even in the face of challenging circumstances, including economic and political unrest.

    This week on Unpacked we are chatting with Elio Dortilus. Elio shares the story of losing his dad, a skilled carpenter and farmer, a man of wisdom and profound lessons. At  16, the passing of his father became a pivotal moment when quickly became the man of the house and sole provider. Struggling with depression and grief over the years he shares what it is like to deal with mental health in Haiti. Elio's pursuit of education took him from the streets of Haut Limbe to the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Juggling work to fund his studies and support his sister, Elio emerged as a testament to resilience and determination. In this episode we hear Elio's perspective as a husband, father, medical supplier, researcher, and community leader, Elio reflects on the enduring lessons his father imparted—friendship, work ethic, and unwavering family care.
    Also!! Get ready for some laughs as Elio spills the tea on his marriage and dishes out dating advice. The Unpacked Team met Elio several years ago as a teenager and drummer (as well as a translator) when travelling to Haiti with the Evangelical Covenant Church of Canada.

    LINKS
    -Donate + Support Haiti
    -Evangelical Covenant Church of Canada
    -Petite Anse Feeding Project Video (featuring Jessica)
    -More on Haiti: Dr. Manno's Episode part 1 and part 2
    -Unpacked Series - Shoulder to Shoulder
    -Unpacked Series - Everyday Enneagram
    -Unpacked Series - Adoption
    Support the show
    Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

    Instagram:@theunpackedpod
    Facebook: @theunpackedpod
    unpackedpod.ca

    Support the show

    *music by Bensound

    • 1 hr 13 min
    Beyond Mountains: Northern Haiti and Immigrating to Canada with Jessica Geffrard

    Beyond Mountains: Northern Haiti and Immigrating to Canada with Jessica Geffrard

    Welcome to a special series on Unpacked, where we journey to the vibrant and resilient nation of Haiti. In this series, we have the privilege of hearing from inspiring individuals who have not only grown up in this beautiful country but have dedicated their lives to positively impacting their communities.

    Join us as we sit down with Elio, Jessica, and Dr. Manno, leaders born in Haiti (two still living there) each with a unique story and perspective on life in Haiti. They graciously share their personal experiences, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Haitian culture, and emphasizing the immense joy that persists even in the face of challenging circumstances, including economic and political unrest.

    This week on Unpacked we are chatting with Jessica Geffrard, administrator, wife, mama and former leader of the Petite Anse Kids Feeding Project in Haut Limbe, Haiti. The Unpacked Team met Jessica several years ago when travelling to Haiti with the Evangelical Covenant Church of Canada.

    Jessica shares about her life growing up in Haiti as the daughter of a single parent and the oldest in her household she was responsible for taking care of her sibling and the household while her mom worked hard to ensure they had what they needed (education, clothes and food). Jessica shares what she hopes Canadians can learn about her culture and we discuss the immense joy of Haitians in the midst of really challenging situations including economic and political unrest.  Jessica is a passionate leader who worked tirelessly to empower the children in Petite Anse and continues to put that energy into everything she does.

    LINKS
    -Donate + Support Haiti
    -Evangelical Covenant Church of Canada
    -Petite Anse Feeding Project Video (featuring Jessica)
    -More on Haiti: Dr. Manno's Episode part 1 and part 2
    -Unpacked Series - Shoulder to Shoulder
    -Unpacked Series - Everyday Enneagram
    -Unpacked Series - Adoption
    Support the show
    Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

    Instagram:@theunpackedpod
    Facebook: @theunpackedpod
    unpackedpod.ca

    Support the show

    *music by Bensound

    • 1 hr 3 min
    Introducing Beyond the Mountains: A Haiti Series

    Introducing Beyond the Mountains: A Haiti Series

    Welcome to a special series on Unpacked, where we journey to the vibrant and resilient nation of Haiti. In this series, we have the privilege of hearing from inspiring individuals who have not only grown up in this beautiful country but have dedicated their lives to positively impacting their communities.

    Join us as we sit down with Elio, Jessica, and Dr. Manno, leaders born in Haiti (two still living there) each with a unique story and perspective on life in Haiti. They graciously share their personal experiences, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Haitian culture, and emphasizing the immense joy that persists even in the face of challenging circumstances, including economic and political unrest.

    These passionate leaders have devoted themselves to empowering others through education, advocating for children, and providing essential medical care. Together, they've worked tirelessly to build a better future for their communities and contribute to a broader vision for Haut Limbe and its surrounding areas.

    Through heartfelt conversations and powerful stories, this series aims to foster understanding and appreciation for the strength, resilience, and unwavering spirit of the Haitian people. You will be inspired and learn to reflect on how you too can contribute to change in your neighbourhoods and on a global level.

    LINKS
    -Donate + Support Haiti
    -Evangelical Covenant Church of Canada
    -Petite Anse Feeding Project Video (featuring Jessica)
    -More on Haiti: Dr. Manno's Episode part 1 and part 2
    -Unpacked Series - Shoulder to Shoulder
    -Unpacked Series - Everyday Enneagram
    -Unpacked Series - Adoption
    Support the show
    Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

    Instagram:@theunpackedpod
    Facebook: @theunpackedpod
    unpackedpod.ca

    Support the show

    *music by Bensound

    • 54 min
    Find your voice: Embracing Possibility and Creating a Life by Design with Karsta

    Find your voice: Embracing Possibility and Creating a Life by Design with Karsta

    This week on Unpacked, join us as we dive into an inspiring story of transformation with our guest, Karsta. Raised amidst a myriad of traumatic experiences that left her doubting her own worth and stifling her voice, Karsta shares her profound story of rebuilding from the ground up.

    In 2018, faced with a life that seemed to be unravelling, Karsta embarked on a courageous internal renovation project. Stripping away the layers of societal expectations and past wounds, she started rebuilding her life authentically, on her terms. Instead of remaining a victim to her past, Karsta confronted and healed, learning to listen to her own voice in crafting a vision for her future.

    Through Karsta's compelling narrative, discover the power of facing and healing your past, celebrating every small victory, and embracing a life designed by your own aspirations. Join us for a conversation that transcends the ordinary and inspires you to create a life that goes beyond "fine" – a life that's truly EPIC. Tune in for insights, wisdom, and actionable steps toward your own journey of transformation.

    LINKS
    -Visit Karsta Marie Coaching
    -Email: karsta@karstamarie.com
    -Follow Karsta on IG
    Support the show
    Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

    Instagram:@theunpackedpod
    Facebook: @theunpackedpod
    unpackedpod.ca

    Support the show

    *music by Bensound

    • 1 hr 8 min
    Laughing Through the Growth Ups and Downs with Evan and Tara

    Laughing Through the Growth Ups and Downs with Evan and Tara

    This week on Unpacked, join Evan and Tara for a  random, silly conversation on personal growth. Discover the importance of infusing fun into the process, as they share insights into funny stories that have helped to pay attention to growth and practices. 

    Evan and Tara provide practical tips on self-compassion, practices for growth and when it's time to take a rest. Hang out with us, pod friends, as this episode offers not only questions to ask your besties but also a glimpse into our current learning experiences. Follow us down any rabbit trails we encounter—it's a journey worth taking!

    Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!


    Links
    -Road Back to You by Ian Morgan Cron & Suzanne Stabile
    -The Complete Enneagram by Beatrice Chestnut
    -The Enneagram Journey Podcast with Suzanne Stabile
    -Typology Podcast with Ian Morgan Cron
    -Enneagram Test (Wagner Enneagram Style Scales)


    Support the show


    Support the show
    Unpacked is a podcast exploring life as messy people. It’s conversations with counsellors, leaders, and storytellers discussing the experiences of being human. We talk about the strength that comes from big messy failures and vulnerable moments so we can learn to live more authentically. Subscribe and leave us a review!

    Instagram:@theunpackedpod
    Facebook: @theunpackedpod
    unpackedpod.ca

    Support the show

    *music by Bensound

    • 1 hr 6 min

Customer Reviews

4.7 out of 5
13 Ratings

13 Ratings

_doremi101 ,

Diverse

It’s easy to throw out the word diversity. It’s much harder to fully embrace it and commit to being more inclusive. This podcast truly commits to highlighting voices and stories from all backgrounds! 1 hr might seem a bit long for some people but the topics are so engaging and it would be difficult to find many of these topics anywhere else!

@empowerwithem

Hopessoulmate ,

Love the messy life

This is such a great concept. Love listening to your show and how you make mess a reality and the norm

Listener 375 ,

Belonging - such a juicy episode!

Wow!! So many beautiful nuggets in the Belonging episode. I took notes on my phone, backing up and replaying to be sure I got things accurately written to refer back to. It was a fast-moving conversation (ha, the energy of two 7’s!!) and then Tara’s prophetic comment and the final minutes of that conversation just blew my mind. Absolutely gorgeous dialogue on belonging vs. being included. Thank you!

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