Meet David Houle

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to David Houle. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

David , so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Imposter syndrome is a phenomenon that has affected me for many years and still does, but I understand how to manage it now and where it comes from. I employ several strategies to overcome this feeling of inadequacy and self-doubt.

Firstly, it is crucial to recognize that everyone makes mistakes and faces challenges along their path to success. Instead of internalizing failures, it is helpful to reframe setbacks as opportunities for growth. Additionally, I seek support from mentors or trusted individuals who can provide guidance and reassurance. It’s a new year, time to move forward with courage. Let’s do this!!!

I also found that sharing experiences with others who have faced similar feelings helped me realize that imposter syndrome is a shared experience rather than an isolated one. Building self-confidence through positive self-talk, acknowledging accomplishments, and celebrating achievements have gradually alleviated my imposter feelings. Positive affirmations are part of my daily routine, wildly when spiralling into negative and irrational thought loops. We’ve all been there, and the good news is that you are in control and ultimately can dismiss those negative patterns. I like to name mine and use humour to mock them.

Cultivating a growth mindset, embracing new challenges, and continually learning have also contributed to my overcoming imposter syndrome.

Ultimately, it is crucial to recognize your worth and value and focus on personal growth rather than comparing yourself to others. By adopting these strategies, I can manage my inner critic and navigate through imposter syndrome and thrive in my personal and professional endeavours.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am a multidisciplinary artist based in Montreal, Canada. In 2019, as a guest keyboard artist and dancer with Montreal’s atypical metal band Deadly Apples, I performed at the 25th Vans Warped Tour alongside Simple Plan, Good Charlotte and Blink 182. I also performed at the VIVO X El ROCK festival in Peru with Slipknot, The Strokes and Bullet for My Valentine and toured with Marylin Manson that same year.

My parents served in the Canadian Armed Forces, and after my mother died in 2003, I decided to start dancing full-time and later graduated from the School of Toronto Dance Theatre. In 2015, I worked alongside Cindy Lauper in the Tony A musical Kinky Boots in Toronto.

I am an independent Singer/Songwriter and was the lead character for two productions of Cirque Du Soleil and a dancer for the Canadian Opera Company. I am the choreographer for Billboard charting artist Dion Todd. Most recently, I headlined a show on the Las Vegas Strip.

However, my biggest accomplishment is my sobriety journey and my partnership with the Speakers Bureau of Canada. In work along side an amazing team there and deliver customized and tailored keynote speeches, presentations, workshops and training

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David Houle

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
1- be humble 2- be patient
3- let love in when you find it

I’ve learned through a terrible professional burnout chapter of my life that nothing is worth it if you can share it with someone meaningful. I’ve waited 35 years to find my person, and ultimately, putting energy and effort into our relationship has only strengthened all the other areas of my life.

Other advice: be mindful of whom you share your dreams with. The wrong energy can derail your clear vision. Work in silence, stay hungry and understand that consistency is the only way to achieve your goals.

What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was to allow me to try different sports and art forms as a child. It helped shape my work ethic and taught me discipline and teamwork. Art and dance are such a powerful and healthy ways to express yourself when you are a sensitive soul like me. I am grateful for their unconditional love and support. I would not have the carreer I have today if my father didn’t stand by my side during the ups and downs. He is my hero.

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Kyle Michael Kuhlman

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