Today’s Notable Young Professional is TV host Michael Lagimodiere, who thrives in high-intensity work environments and sees himself building playgrounds in the British Virgin Islands while living with his family on a sailboat in five years. Sounds like the perfect work-life balance to us…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I host a TV show called Giver on TVO, where in three days with six kids I build custom-made, kid-inspired playgrounds. Giver airs Wednesdays at 6:30pm, repeated Saturdays at 2pm.
What was the inspiration for this career route?
It was a bit of fluke, but I’ve been a builder/designer for 20 years and I’m married to someone who works in the entertainment industry. I never imagined myself on camera, but the world works in mysterious ways. I love my job.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
I thrive in high-intensity work environments. We build amazing playgrounds in three days (honestly, it’s really three days). There are a lot of moving parts and I love the problem solving (and the pressure) while working in front of the camera. The kids inspire me every time. Most challenging is when it’s raining non-stop (Yep, we still build in three days).
Where do you see yourself in five years?
Building playgrounds in the British Virgin Islands while living with my family on a sailboat.
What is one major challenge that you’ve had to overcome in your career? How did you overcome it?
Appearing on television requires you to overcome a lot anxieties. My wife coached me on how to be my best self in front of the camera. It also helps that when you work under such tight timelines there’s no chance to second-guess yourself. You just do it.
What does success look like to you? Does Money = Happiness?
It helps if that money comes from doing what you love. I’ve worn the golden handcuffs in previous jobs. Money is not everything.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Giver: Season One, Episode One.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Say yes.
Where is your favourite place to wine/ dine in your city and why?
I recently had an incredible night with my wife starting at the south end of Ossington, having a cocktail and a dish at each restaurant up the length of the west side. Favourite of the night was Odd Seoul.
When you’re not working how do you love to spend your “Me” time?
Sailing on Lake Ontario. I own an old boat so the night usually starts with me taking the engine apart and putting it back together, but it usually ends with a great night on the lake.
Where is your favourite place to travel? Why?
Usually places where there is no electricity but the ingredients of a good margarita.
If you weren’t doing what you’re doing, what would you be doing?
Building boats.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
We have children all over the world. If you approach my wife on the street she will almost 100% sign up for another.
What to you is notable?
Being a parent. Raising girls who believe in themselves.
BlackBerry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
Android.
#LYNL | (Live Your Notable Life)
Want more updates on the most Notable things happening so you know before your colleagues do? Get our exclusive newsletter here and follow us on Twitter for all the latest.