About Louise

Ida Louise Ridout
Ida Louise Ridout

I have always embraced an optimistic mindset and chosen happiness, even when my life didn’t align with the dreams I once envisioned. This perspective has shaped my journey, allowing me to find joy and purpose in every season of life.

For much of my life, I’ve been deeply curious about the principles of active, healthy living. Long before the Blue Zones concept became widely known, I was exploring and practicing habits to create a long, healthy, happy, and fulfilling life—aiming to thrive well beyond the norms of longevity.

Education has also been a cornerstone of my journey. I earned a B.Sc. in Mathematics and an M.S. in Statistics, but my passion for helping others led me to pursue additional certifications as a counselor and life coach.

As a teacher and as a coach, I taught students—both young people and adults—not just academic skills but also the understanding that they hold the answers and strength within themselves to navigate challenges and thrive in any circumstances.

I was also a successful math and statistics instructor at MRU and SAIT. I helped students to be successful learning concepts that were challenging for them to learn, and taught them that they could reach success in any arena they chose. While successful in those endeavours, I always reminded my students that finding happiness in their lives, pursuing their passions and creating successful relationships was more important than any math skills they could learn.

 

Over the years, I’ve spoken to diverse audiences, including parents, adults, and young people, sharing principles for cultivating happiness, resilience, and purpose.

Today, I continue to inspire and empower others through workshops and motivational keynotes, helping individuals unlock their potential for lasting joy, vibrant health, and a meaningful life.

Staying Active: My Favorite Physical Activities

I love to walk briskly along the Bow River. I also love to climb and hike up to the highest peak of Nose Hill Park and the Douglas Fir Trail in Edworthy Park.
As well as riding my bike on pathways in Edworthy Park, I often ride around all of Confederation Park in Calgary. I’ve ridden the Kettle Valley Rail Trail in B.C. and down the Pacific Coast Highway from Portland to California.

I’m not a runner, but I did run — and survive! — in a 10K race for the good cause of supporting women’s shelters in Calgary.

I am an avid Scottish Country dancer. Almost any kind of dancing will give you a good cardio workout while you have fun!