The Healing Power of Breath: A Conversation with Vanessa Scott

Listen in to Part 10 of the Bermuda Bankers Association Series on Frauds and Scams with special guests: Jason Smith, Head of the Bermuda Police Service Financial Crime Unit and Twynika Smith-Blakeney, HSBC Chief Compliance Officer.   Twynika Smith-Blakeney was appointed as the HSBC Bank Bermuda Limited’s Chief Compliance Officer on 1 August 2021. She joined the Bank in December 1999 and has over 25 years’ experience in the financial services industry, including various roles within the Bank’s Asset Management and Compliance departments. In September 2020, Twynika was appointed as the Interim Head of Regulatory Compliance and in December 2020, was appointed as the Interim Chief Compliance Officer where she provided leadership to the Compliance function. In her capacity as Chief Compliance Officer, Twynika is responsible for leading the Bank’s Compliance department to ensure that HSBC’s operations in Bermuda are effective in identifying, managing, and mitigating Regulatory Compliance and Financial Crime and Fraud risks.   With three decades of exemplary policing experience, Jason Smith serves as the Head of the Bermuda Police Service Financial Crime Unit, leading complex investigations involving money laundering, fraud, corruption, and emerging financial threats. A seasoned Senior Investigating Officer, he applies strategic oversight, rigorous investigative standards, and international best practices to safeguard Bermuda’s financial integrity. His leadership has strengthened cross-border partnerships, enhanced investigative capability, and guided high-profile financial-crime inquiries. Supported by numerous commendations, advanced investigative training, and a proven record of transformational leadership, he continues to drive innovation, uphold regulatory confidence, and protect the island’s global reputation as a trusted financial jurisdiction.   Sponsored by Bermuda Bankers Association www.bermudabankers.org

In this episode of the Best Health Podcast, intuitive energy therapist and breath work facilitator Vanessa Scott joins us to explore how something as simple as your breath can transform mental and physical health. From reducing stress and anxiety to boosting energy, focus, and resilience, Vanessa shares practical tools and insights to help you harness the power of breath work. Tune in to learn how mindful breathing can be a gateway to healing, balance, and better overall health.   Sponsor: Lindo's

In this episode of the Best Health podcast, Carrie sits down with Mike Doehla, founder of Stronger U, to debunk common nutrition myths and break down what sustainable fat loss really looks like. From mindless snacking and emotional eating to "villainized" food groups and diet culture nonsense, Mike shares refreshing, compassionate advice that anyone can apply. Tune in for real talk and practical tools for lasting health.   At 40, Mike Doehla officially retired after selling his nutrition coaching company, Stronger U. After becoming one of Americas fastest growing companies without paid marketing, hiring 100+ coaches, and helping people around the world lose more than a million pounds, he felt his job was done and it was time for change. Now, a married full-time dad of two girls, Mike shares his wisdom and experience with the industry to continue to improve the lives of others and help raise the bar.     Sponsor: Lindo's  

Listen in to Part 9 of the Bermuda Bankers Association Series on Building Generational Wealth, with guest Neville Grant the new CEO of the BBA.   Neville Grant is the CEO of the Bermuda Bankers Associations, Independent Non-Executive Director and the former Chief Executive Officer of Bermuda Commercial Bank. Neville’s nearly 30-year business career includes a number of senior roles in banking formally with HSBC, both locally and internationally, as well as the former General Manager of Bermuda Economic Development Corporation. Neville sits on a few boards and committees current and former including Fortitude Re (current), Bermuda Commercial Bank (former), Bermuda Economic Development Corporation (former), Proserve Bermuda (former) and the Centennial Bermuda Foundation – Economic Participation Committee (current). After spending time with his wife and two kids (17 & 15), Neville spends his time boating, fishing and travelling for enjoyment.   • Sponsored by Bermuda Bankers Association www.bermudabankers.org

Erica and Theresa from Vision Bermuda join us to discuss living well with vision loss. With an aging population and rising rates of diseases like diabetes and hypertension, vision impairment is an increasing concern. They share how Vision Bermuda empowers residents with tailored programs, highlights the importance of regular eye health care starting in childhood, and provides practical tips for adapting to vision changes while maintaining independence and wellbeing.   Erica Ingemann is the Executive Director of Vision Bermuda and a licensed speech language pathologist with a heart for service and a passion for helping others thrive. A dedicated advocate for accessibility and inclusion, she balances her professional life with being a very busy (and very proud) mommy. Erica is a self-proclaimed giver who finds joy in baking, reading, traveling (when the budget cooperates), and making people smile. She believes laughter is essential, rest is a myth, and happiness is contagious.   Theresa McMordie is passionate about helping people with vision loss live with confidence and independence.    At Vision Bermuda, she designs programs that not only teach practical skills but also bring joy, connection, and a sense of community. Known for her creative energy and down-to-earth approach, Theresa believes in making every interaction uplifting and meaningful. Outside of her work, she loves gig rowing on the beautiful Bermuda ocean, where the power of teamwork and the rhythm of the waves reflect the same values she brings into her life and work: support, resilience, and shared purpose.   Sponsor: Lindo's

Listen in to Part 8 of the series with the Bermuda Bankers Association: Insurance to Protect your Assets   Geoff Scott has over 30 years’ experience in the financial services industry, including leadership roles in risk management, business development and client relationship management. He assumed progressively senior positions as a commercial banker with leading Canadian banks and transitioned to Barbados in 2012 as the Chief Risk Officer at a leading Caribbean commercial bank, where he successfully led several change initiatives which strengthened the risk culture and alignment with business strategies. Subsequently, Geoff was Chief Executive Officer at Barbados’ leading composite insurance company.   Geoff is currently the Chief Executive Officer of the Bermuda Bankers Association, where he represents the banking industry with advocacy, education and communications aimed at a range of stakeholders.   Geoff is Chairman of the Board of Commissioners of the Turks and Caicos Islands Financial Services Commission, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of National Commercial Bank of Anguilla. Geoff is a Chartered Director accredited by the Caribbean Governance Training Institute.   Sponsored by Bermuda Bankers Association www.bermudabankers.org

Back-to-school is here, and packing healthy lunches doesn't have to be stressful! In this episode, Registered Dietitian Sarah from Island Nutrition shares real-life, practical tips to help you build nourishing, balanced lunchboxes without guilt, overwhelm, or breaking the bank. We unpack common myths, talk picky eating, and explore how food affects focus, learning, and behaviour-plus how to involve kids without mealtime turning into a battle.   Sarah is a highly experienced Registered Dietitian specializing in both paediatric and adult nutrition. With over a decade of clinical experience—including 10 years in the UK’s National Health Service and two years as the sole dietitian on the remote island of Saint Helena—she brings a deep understanding of diverse health conditions and the unique nutritional challenges of island living. At Island Nutrition, Sarah supports clients across a broad range of concerns, from early childhood nutrition to women’s health, diabetes, kidney disease, and more. Known for her compassionate, practical approach, Sarah thrives on helping people make realistic dietary changes that align with their lifestyle. She’s passionate about simplifying nutrition with engaging visual tools and personalized advice—even if that means scouring food labels in the supermarket. Outside of the clinic, Sarah is a mother to two daughters, an avid diver, and a devoted baker with a signature lemon drizzle cake.   Sponsor: Lindo's

In this episode, infant and early childhood mental health consultant Gwendolyn Creary sheds light on a powerful truth: mental health starts at birth. We explore how a parent’s emotional well-being impacts early childhood development, why parenting can feel so emotionally intense, and how we can better support caregivers. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed in parenting or wondered how to raise emotionally strong kids, this one’s for you.   Gwendolyn Creary is a licensed mental health counsellor with over 25 years of experience in early intervention, specializing in infant and early childhood development. She is the founder of Parent Guide, a private practice where she works as an Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant(IECMHC). In this role, Gwendolyn partners with parents, day-care providers, teachers, and other early childhood professionals to improve the social, emotional, and behavioural health of young children in homes, childcare, and early education settings. Her mission is to build the capacity of all caregivers to understand how their relationships and interactions influence child development—helping to prevent physical and mental health problems before they arise. A mother of two adult children and a proud grandmother to her 7-month-old grandson, Gwendolyn brings both professional expertise and personal insight to her deeply compassionate work with families.   Sponsor: Lindo's

About The Culture is a podcast that dives into the heart of what makes Bermuda, Bermuda. Each episode explores how time and generations have shaped our island’s culture and identity — from our unique traditions and ways of life to the influences of the wider world. We’ll be sharing historical facts, personal experiences, and honest opinions on everything from holidays and food to music, and growing up Bermudian. To keep things fun, every episode includes games, challenges, or trivia based on the topic — testing just how well you really know the Rock. Whether you’re a local  or just curious about island life, this is where Bermuda’s past and present come together with a twist of Gen Z energy. Brought to you by the RG Next Gen Interns, Shia Bean, Joaquin O’Conner, and Khyii Perinchief —We hope you to inform, challenge and entertain you!  "Live It, Learn It and Pass It On"   Sponsor: Brought to you by The Royal Gazette

Celebrating 75 years in business, the Kitson Group of Companies launches ALTURA – remote work and office solutions in the heart of Hamilton. Listen in to find out more… Scott Kitson is Director at the Kitson Group of Companies. Founded in 1947 by Scott’s grandfather, the Group’s diverse businesses include: Residential & Commercial Real Estate development and management Gorham’s - Bermuda’s largest hardware, lumber and home goods business Rosedon Hotel - Uniquely Bermudian boutique hotel and restaurants ALTURA – flexible workspaces in the heart of Hamilton As past president of charity Keep Bermuda Beautiful, Scott has a passion for our islands, especially regarding environmental stewardship and responsibility. Kitson’s has the largest privately installed base of Solar Photovoltaic and Solar Thermal Hot Water in Bermuda and is dedicated to promoting and implementing environmentally sustainable practice throughout their operations. Sponsored by Kitson Group of Companies, Altura