The Miles to Zen Podcast with Shannon Miles Halliday
Journeying through curiosity, creativity & connection.
Welcome to Miles to Zen, a podcast that celebrates life's delightful twists and turns, no matter where you are on your journey. I'm your host, Shannon Miles Halliday, a follower of curiosity, a mom, a wife, a former corporate executive, a creator and a connector. This show is your companion for navigating the beautifully messy adventure of life. Each episode invites you into heartfelt, inspiring, and expansive conversations, diving into topics like self trust, big moments and big decisions, navigating day jobs and finding purpose, and how can we thrive. You’ll feel uplifted and even enlightened each week as we share stories, and insights that spark your own ideas as well as conversations that offer completely new perspectives.
The Miles to Zen Podcast with Shannon Miles Halliday
With Intention and Impact: A Woman’s Journey to Academic Leadership, A Conversation with Agatha Ojimelukwe
In this inspiring episode of the Miles to Zen podcast, host Shannon sits down with Dr. Agatha Ojimelukwe, Dean of the School of Energy and Natural Resources at NAIT (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology). Agatha opens up about her bold pursuit of purpose and belonging—from her early days dreaming of uplifting others through education to carving out a thriving career in Canada against the odds.
Her path is one of resilience, courage, and thoughtful reinvention. Through candid stories about overcoming rejection, balancing family life, and building a career through the power of connection, Agatha offers lessons that resonate far beyond academia. As a woman in a prominent leadership role within the energy and education sectors, her presence alone challenges the status quo.
Whether you’re navigating change or seeking clarity on your own path, this conversation invites growth, inspiration, and a deeper sense of mindfulness.
- 00:00 Welcome & Introduction
- 00:47 Agatha’s Story Begins
- 01:52 Facing Rejection & Finding Opportunity
- 03:33 Presence & Positivity in Everyday Life
- 07:25 Juggling Career & Family
- 10:40 Discovering a Passion for Teaching
- 16:19 A Leap Toward a Brighter Future
- 18:16 Transitioning Back to Vancouver
- 20:01 Job Market Realities & Resilience
- 21:54 Landing the First Breakthrough
- 23:33 Power of Networking & Volunteering
- 27:22 Joining NAIT & Making an Impact
- 32:27 Courage, Fear & Pushing Forward
- 37:36 Closing Reflections & Wisdom
Tune in for a story that reminds us that success is a series of first steps, made over and over again. Enjoy!
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See you next week!