I try not to play favourites, but this week’s guest may be the most extraordinary human I’ve ever interviewed. Diane Dupuy is the founder of Famous PEOPLE Players, a Black Light theatre company where the performers are individuals with physical and developmental disabilities. On stage, they become invisible, allowing life-sized puppets to dance, dazzle, and delight the audience. Offstage, they find purpose, dignity, and a chance to be part of something magical.

In this profoundly moving episode, Diane shares how she turned her childhood trauma, learning challenges, and rejection by society into a purpose-driven life. Famous PEOPLE Players is her ever-burning flame of inclusion, artistry, and belief in human potential.

From being discovered by Liberace—who invited the troupe to open for him in Las Vegas—to receiving support from Paul Newman, Senator Ted Kennedy, and even a standing ovation from Phil Collins, Diane’s journey is one of sheer will and unstoppable passion. No funding? She finds a way. Border blocks? She calls the White House. Criticism? She answers with applause.

But today, this company which has changed so many lives is fighting to keep its lights on. With no government funding, they rely solely on ticket sales, donations, and sponsorships.

If this episode moves you—and it will—share it. And if you can, support the show that refuses to stop, because for Diane Dupuy and her PLAYERS, the show must go on.

And please stay to hear what Andrea Barrack, from RBC, has to say about the role that organizations can play in creating a better world.

Visit famouspeopleplayers.com. Help keep the curtain up.

RBC: Purpose Framework: https://www.rbc.com/our-impact/_assets-custom/pdf/esg-report-2023-en-placemat.pdf

What happens when a lifelong dream clashes with a tough new reality? This episode follows the compelling journey of Dapo Bankole, who left everything behind in Nigeria to create a brighter future for his family in Canada.

But what awaited him wasn’t a red carpet—it was a steep climb of survival jobs, diminishing savings, and the gradual loss of self-worth.

Through honest storytelling and deep reflection, Dapo shares how mentorship, microloans, and community support not only rebuilt his life but also inspired him to build bridges for others. His transformation from a struggling newcomer to founder of The Immigrant Life serves as a powerful reminder of what’s possible when we stop wasting talent and start investing in human potential.

Joining the conversation is Andrea Barrack, Senior Vice President of Sustainability and Impact at RBC, who explains why RBC is supporting Windmill Microlending—a groundbreaking organization helping thousands of skilled newcomers reclaim their careers, dignity, and dreams.

A beautiful story of dreaming, doing and doing for others awaits.

From Hollywood Hits to Finding Happy: Peter Samuelson’s Mission to Lift Others

Peter Samuelson could have stayed in Hollywood, producing box-office hits like Revenge of the Nerds and The Return of the Pink Panther. Instead, he utilized his storytelling and leadership skills to rewrite the script of his life, founding seven nonprofits that empower society’s most overlooked individuals, including those in foster care.

In this inspiring episode, Peter reveals the decisive moments that shaped him, like a life-changing nudge from a 10th-grade teacher and his father’s unwavering belief in education. We explore his journey from film sets to social impact, from co-founding the Starlight Children’s Foundation with Emma Samms and STARBRIGHT World with Steven Spielberg, to building First Star, a program that sends 90% of foster teens to college.

Peter also shares the wisdom behind his new book, Finding Happy, a field guide for Gen Z and Millennials navigating life’s complexities. Packed with insight, humour, and “madcap adventures,” it’s a reminder that long-term happiness isn’t about fame or fortune—it’s about helping others.

If you’re looking for hope, purpose, and 'finding happy', don’t miss this conversation.

Andrea Barrack returns to the show to talk about the role organizations can play to support individuals and communities.