In this luminous second episode of Sage Advice, Dr. Deena Shaffer joins host Hamza Khan for an inspiring, soul-expanding conversation about purpose, learning, and the quiet rebellion of choosing joy. A bestselling author, TEDx speaker, and the visionary behind Awakened Learning, Dr. Shaffer has dedicated her life to transforming education into an act of compassion. But it was the profound loss of both her parents in her mid-20s that clarified her life’s mission: to reduce suffering through meaningful, inclusive learning experiences. In this episode, Deena shares the timeless wisdom she would pass on at the end of her life: 1) Go right when everyone goes left, 2) Live life as if everything is rigged in your favour, and 3) Move in the direction of aliveness. Together, Hamza and Deena unpack these vibrant truths, exploring what it means to design a beautiful business, practice ethical entrepreneurship, and align your work with your wonder. From learning strategies to legacy, this episode is a tender blueprint for anyone seeking to live—and lead—with curiosity, integrity, and joy. Because sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is choose what feels most alive.
To wrap up season one of The Bedtime Edit Podcast, host Alanna McGinn welcomes learning strategist Dr. Deena Kara Shaffer. They discuss the emotional and academic challenges students (and their parents) face while transitioning to university or college with a complete guide for first-year students and the Moms & Dads! They explore strategies for procrastination, time management, and effective studying, while also addressing the emotional landscape for parents as their children leave home. Dr. Schaefer provides practical tools and resources to help both students and parents navigate this significant life change, emphasizing the importance of connection, independence, supportive tools and self-care.
