Things I Wish I Knew About...

In this solo episode, Stacey gets real about what it’s actually like to start and run your own business. From humble beginnings as a nutrition consultant to cookbook author and content creator, she shares the hard-earned lessons learned over a decade of entrepreneurship.Tune in as Stacey breaks down her top 9 (okay, 10!) tips — from starting before you’re ready to celebrating the small wins. Expect honesty, laughs, and plenty of “I wish someone told me this sooner” moments.If you’ve ever dreamed of building something of your own (or are in the messy middle right now), this episode’s for you.You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

Marketing strategist Mallory Myers (Marketing by Mallory) joins Stacey Green to break down what actually works for small businesses—and what doesn’t. From ditching perfection and ads to building trust through authenticity, this episode is a practical, refreshing look at modern marketing.They talk about Mallory’s journey into marketing, why people buy from people, the biggest social-media myths, how to use trends without losing your voice, and simple, free ways to grow engagement.A must-listen for creatives and entrepreneurs who want marketing to feel clearer, easier, and more human.You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

This week on Things I Wish I Knew About… Stacey sits down with Joseph Tito — creator of ‘The Dad Diaries’ and founder of ‘Between the Covers’ — for a raw, funny, and deeply honest conversation.Joe shares his wild journey from international model and filmmaker to global TV producer, and finally to single dad of twin girls through surrogacy. They talk about grief, success, burnout, building a life that actually feels meaningful, and what it really takes to become a parent on your own.They also get into how ‘The Dad Diaries' was born, the dark side of influencer culture, and why Joe is now focused on creating spaces that amplify women’s voices around the world.An unforgettable conversation about identity, fatherhood, and choosing the life you actually want.About Joe:I’m a Canadian content creator and LGBTQ+ dad of twin girls whose work blends humor, honesty, and real-life parenting chaos. I share my life through The Dad Diaries, where I talk openly about fatherhood, family, and what it means to raise strong girls in today’s world. I also publish Between the Covers, a magazine I created as a legacy for my daughters to spotlight the brave, brilliant women I want them to grow up inspired by. At my core, I’m a storyteller who believes in showing up authentically and rewriting the rules of what family and creativity can look like.You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

From Sephora exec to viral creator, Gay Italian Nonna (Monica) shares the wildly honest story of quitting corporate life, coming out later in life, and choosing self-love—publicly. This episode covers creativity vs. cultural pressure, TikTok fame born from a nightmare neighbour, dating yourself, mental health, manifestation, and why your body always knows the truth first. Funny, raw, and deeply affirming—this one’s about choosing yourself and trusting the pivot.About Monica:Monica Bancheri—also known as Gay Italian Nonna—is a Toronto content creator, talk-show host, and community builder who blends bold Italian energy with heartfelt LGBTQ+ advocacy. As the host of unMASCed, Monica creates safe, hilarious, and authentic spaces for queer stories to shine. Her mission: visibility, belonging, and always showing up as your whole self.You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

In this episode of Things I Wish I Knew About…, Stacey chats with children’s book author Melanie Rose Fernandes about the unexpected path that led her to publishing ‘Ooey, Gooey, Chewy Bubblegum’.Melanie shares how a forgotten Grade 11 project, rediscovered years later, became a published children’s book—along with lessons on confidence, creativity, and putting yourself out there. They talk about marketing when you are the brand, representation in children’s books, visiting schools to inspire young writers, and why sometimes the biggest life shifts start with one small choice.A warm, inspiring conversation for writers, parents, and anyone navigating a non-linear creative journey.About Melanie:Hi, I'm Mel. I work in marketing and sales for a global food company and travel frequently to support customers across North America. Creativity has always been a big part of who I am, and I wrote my first children's book at 17. After years, I finally felt like it was time to share it with the world and now I'm combining my business background with my passion for storytelling to inspire young readers.You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

In this solo episode, Stacey Green discusses the concept of designing your life, emphasizing the importance of clarity in understanding one's desires, taking action without waiting for motivation, and making present-day decisions that align with future goals. She highlights the significance of consistency in achieving desired outcomes and encourages listeners to embrace the journey of personal growth and change.You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

Stacey chats with Lauren Frances Smith, founder of Lo & Co, the storytelling jewelry brand turning intention into art. Lauren shares how she built her business from a single handmade bracelet into a movement — featured in Chatelaine, Canadian Living, and loved by brands like Maybelline and The Body Shop.They dive into entrepreneurship, intuition, and the power of saying no so you can say yes to what really aligns.About Lauren:Lauren is the creative force and heart behind Lo & Co Jewelry, where she blends artisan craftsmanship, minimalist elegance, and soulful design. Inspired by everyday rituals and understated beauty, she handcrafts each piece with intention—turning fine metals and subtle accents into wearable statements.With a background in [art/design / metalsmithing / small business] (you can insert whichever fits), Lauren launched Lo & Co to bring jewelry that feels personal—and effortless—to wear. Her designs cater to those who want daily staples, not flash, and she’s committed to ethical sourcing, slow production, and giving back to her community.When she’s not behind her bench or sketching her next collection, Lauren can be found hunting for vintage beads, walking local trails, or sourcing inspiration in the quiet corners of city life.You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

Think meal planning is boring? Think again. In this solo episode, Stacey Green—cookbook author and chaos coordinator—shares her 8 no-BS tips to make dinner time easier, faster, and way less stressful. From freezer hacks to theme nights (hello, Taco Tuesday), Stacey’s got you covered with real-life strategies that actually work.Whether you’re feeding a family or just yourself, this episode will help you plan smarter, waste less, and maybe even enjoy cooking again.Listen now and take the chaos out of “what’s for dinner?”You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

This week, Stacey Green chats with poet Nicole Dalcourt, author of ‘What Remains.’ From childhood diaries to open mics and self-publishing, Nicole shares how writing helped her navigate illness, family struggles, empty-nesting, and grief.It’s real talk about loss, resilience, and finding your voice—even when it shakes.Grab What Remains on Amazon, Indigo, or Barnes & Noble.Follow Nicole on Instagram: @nicoledalcourtAbout Nicole Dalcourt:Nicole Dalcourt is an award-winning Canadian writer and poet living on the outskirts of Toronto, Ontario. Her debut poetry collection, What Remains, uses a confessional voice to explore themes of grief, heartbreak, rebirth and belonging. Dalcourt’s work has appeared in Writerly Magazine, The King City Mosaic and on Howl Radio and the Viewless Wings Podcast. When not writing, Nicole hosts and participates in open mics around the region and pursues her passion for teaching poetry skills through in-person and online workshops and is host of The Portal writing circle.You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

In this episode, Stacey Green and Sheetal Laar pull back the curtain on the world of real estate—from personal wins and lessons learned to must-know market trends. They break down the home-buying journey, demystify mortgages (fixed vs. variable), and unpack how interest rates really affect your bottom line.Get the inside scoop on why trust is everything in real estate deals, how emotions play a huge role in buying a home, and what you really need to know about closing costs and conditional offers. Whether you're buying, selling, or just curious about the market, this episode is packed with real talk and practical tips you won't want to miss.About Sheetal Laar:Sheetal Laar is a passionate REALTOR® with Real Estate Homeward, based in Toronto (Queen Street East), helping clients find homes they love — whether in condos, heritage houses, or tiny homes. Known as the “not your average realtor,” Sheetal blends a love for design, architecture, and sustainability into her real-estate work to bring out the beauty and potential of every space. She is deeply rooted in community and committed to green, responsible building practices, always looking for ways to make homes healthier, more efficient, and full of personality. Whether advising on condos with amazing amenities (yoga, indoor pools, terraces, bike rooms) or helping clients tackle the nuances of an older home or custom build, Sheetal’s approach is warm, honest, and detail-oriented.You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

In this heartfelt conversation, Maryam De Groef shares her profound journey of loss, love, and legacy following the traumatic death of her daughter Zeynah due to anaphylaxis. Maryam discusses the importance of organ donation, the impact of allergies, and the significance of raising awareness about these issues. She emphasizes the need for advocacy in organ donation and the importance of supporting families dealing with grief and sibling loss. Through her experiences, Maryam aims to inspire others to live fully and consider the life-saving potential of organ donation.About Maryam:Maryam De Groef is a grief educator, nervous system regulation facilitator, and integrative health coach whose work bridges personal loss and professional practice. After the sudden death of her 9-year-old daughter Zeynah in 2023 and her family’s decision to donate her organs, Maryam became a public voice in pediatric loss, compassionate care, and legacy. She leads somatic grief retreats, trauma-informed workshops, and is the founder of Refuge of the Heart and Restore & Rebalance. This September, she embarked on a PhD at Western University focusing on memory, legacy, and faith in pediatric organ donation.You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

In this deeply personal and candid episode of Things I Wish I Knew About, Stacey sits down with her sister Kelli to share their very different experiences undergoing preventative double mastectomies. With humor, honesty, and plenty of sisterly banter, they walk through everything from family history and early detection programs to the realities of surgery, recovery, and reconstruction.If you’ve ever wondered what preventative mastectomy and reconstruction really look like, this episode offers both a raw and reassuring perspective, with plenty of laughs along the way.DISCLAIMER:This episode shares Stacey and Kelli’s personal experiences and is not medical advice. Always consult your doctor for guidance on your own health.About Kelli Green: Kelli is Stacey's way older sister. They've known each other their whole lives. Kelli likes to design people's houses and tell them how to make them pretty. She's really good at it, far better than Stacey but it's probably because she's been alive so, so much longer. You can find her on instagram @ashandivyshouse You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

It’s back-to-school season, and Stacey teams up with returning guest (and teacher) Joanna Johnson to get real about what kids actually need to succeed this year.They dive into:Why “school is your job” is the mantra every student needs.Teaching kids to advocate for themselves (without parents doing it all).How failing forward builds grit and resilience.The truth about phones, friends, and accountabilityExpect honest advice, lots of laughs, and a few side tangents (hi, cucumbers and high jump fails). Perfect for parents, teachers, and anyone who loves the smell of fresh pencils in September.About Joanna Johnson:Joanna Johnson is an educator, school leader, and keynote speaker based in Toronto, Ontario. As the voice behind Unlearn16, she’s built a TikTok following of over 3 million, using sharp wit and respectful discourse to dismantle stereotypes and engage audiences in meaningful conversation. Recognized as one of TikTok’s 2024 LGBTQIA+ Visionary Voices, Joanna is equal parts curious, cheeky, and compassionate—always ready to turn judgment into understanding, one respectful dialogue at a timeYou can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

In this week’s episode, Stacey sits down with Shannon Loftus, veteran producer at Breakfast Television, for an inside look at the fast-paced world of TV production. From her early inspirations to landing her dream job, Shannon gets real about what it takes to break into — and thrive in — the entertainment industry.They dive into the power of internships, navigating rejection, and how the pandemic flipped production norms on their head. Shannon shares behind-the-scenes secrets about segment pitching, teamwork, and why resilience and authenticity are essential tools for any creative.Whether you're a media hopeful or just curious about what really happens behind the camera, this conversation is packed with insights, inspiration, and real talk about chasing your passion — even when the going gets tough.About Shannon:Shannon Loftus is a seasoned TV producer with over 20 years of experience in Canadian broadcasting. Her journey began as an intern at Fashion Television, fueled by a love of radio sparked during a childhood moment of grounding — when music became her lifeline. A standout student at Centennial College’s Radio and Television Broadcasting program, Shannon earned Best Student honors three years running (2003–2005) and was awarded the prestigious Citytv Scholarship in 2004.She launched her professional career at Cityline, where she spent 14 years shaping lifestyle television, before moving to Breakfast Television in 2019. Alongside her broadcast work, Shannon founded I Do Videos, a boutique wedding video business that captured love stories with cinematic flair. Her career is defined by creativity, connection, and a deep passion for storytelling — whether behind the scenes or behind the lens.Socials: @shantvgalYou can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

In this episode, Stacey sits down with community advocate Rosanna Araujo for a powerful conversation about food insecurity and its far-reaching effects—especially on children. Rosanna shares her personal path into advocacy work and offers a behind-the-scenes look at how food banks operate, the real-life challenges faced by those experiencing hunger, and why compassion and awareness matter. Together, they explore the critical role of volunteers, the impact of donations, and practical ways listeners can get involved to help fight food insecurity in their own communities.About Rosanna Araujo:Rosanna is a proud first-generation Canadian, born to immigrant parents from Ecuador. Deeply committed to the community, she actively volunteers with charities, non-profits, and at her children’s schools. Outside of her volunteer work, Rosanna is both an astrologer and a yoga teacher, blending mindfulness and spiritual insight into her everyday life. She also trains for endurance races by running the trails along the Humber River. Through every connection she makes, Rosanna strives to inspire hope, empathy, and compassion within her community.If you’re interested in learning more about the Centre For Spanish Speaking Peoples please visit: www.spanishservices.org or follow them on Instagram: @cssptorontoTo learn more about food insecurity in Ontario, visit feedontario.ca You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Rosanna’s astrology page: @red_like_marsSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

We're back with Season 2 of “Things I Wish I Knew About…” and kicking things off with a bang! This week, Stacey sits down with the hilarious and trailblazing Lynn Harris, founder of ‘Gold Comedy’ — the game-changing platform that's reshaping the comedy scene for women and non-binary creators.Together, they dive into the wild world of comedy today: how it's evolving, why representation matters more than ever, and how ‘Gold Comedy’ is building a powerhouse community that supports rising stars. Lynn dishes out insider tips for breaking into the industry, making the most of digital platforms, and owning your comedic voice. If you've ever dreamed of making people laugh and making a difference — this episode is for you.About Lynn Harris:Lynn Harris is a culture-shifting producer, award-winning journalist, and author/co-author of six books, whose comedy and campaigns for social justice and gender equity have changed laws and conversations from Capitol Hill to NASCAR. She is founder and CEO of GOLD Comedy—the comedy school, professional network, and content studio where women and non-binary creators grow their comedy careers, build powerful communities, and make funny stuff. Harris co-created Breakup Girl (acquired by Oxygen), one of the first multi-platform internet success stories, and served as the first VP of communications at global human rights group Breakthrough, where her blend of humor and advocacy powered some of the team’s most effective U.S. campaigns. She has also worked as a Tonya Harding lookalike, which is a long story.@lynnharris @goldcomedy www.goldcomedy.comYou can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

In this jaw-dropping episode, Stacey Green sits down with Sarah Black to unravel her unforgettable journey as an expat teacher in Dubai. What begins as a tale of adventure—leaving home, embracing a new culture, and exploring the UAE—soon takes a dramatic turn.Sarah opens up about the highs of expat life: building lifelong friendships, hopping between breathtaking destinations, and growing in confidence and perspective. But her story isn’t just about wanderlust—it’s also a powerful cautionary tale.From unexpected car trouble and cultural missteps to a shocking run-in with law enforcement that led to her arrest, Sarah doesn’t hold back. She shares what it was really like to be detained abroad—the conditions, the fear, and the resilience it took to get through it all.This gripping conversation explores the real risks of living overseas, the importance of cultural awareness, and how one moment can change everything. You won’t want to miss this raw and eye-opening episode about courage, consequences, and the true cost of stepping outside your comfort zone.About Sarah Black:Sarah is 41 year old cat loving, firefighter, residing in Hamilton, ON, with partner Karen Z. Music/ concert enthusiast, who enjoys collecting records and being tattooed by the amazing Luisa Pariselli at Dreamworx Inc., since 2015. Enjoys the simple things in life like: good coffee, being outdoors, solo stoves, working out and spending time with friends and family. Dedicated friend of the environment and animal advocate.You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

In this episode of Things I Wish I Knew About…, Stacey Green and Danielle Black share the story behind Francis + Meyer Candle Co., tracing its evolution from a pandemic-born idea to a successful business. They dive into the realities of entrepreneurship—addressing challenges, the power of marketing and networking, and the critical role of support systems.Danielle opens up about her personal journey, candidly reflecting on the setbacks and lessons learned along the way. She underscores the importance of resilience, community, and constant innovation. Offering practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, Danielle encourages listeners to stay curious, seek support, and trust in their own potential. The conversation ultimately highlights how passion, collaboration, and a long-term mindset are key to sustainable success in business.About Danielle Black:Meet Danielle, co-founder of Francis + Meyer, a female-owned candle company based in Ontario. What began in a tiny apartment during the pandemic has since blossomed into a brand rooted in peace, intention, and community. A creative at heart, Danielle is passionate about storytelling, small business, and crafting spaces that feel like home. When she’s not pouring candles, you’ll find her running markets, designing new brands, or chasing after her two beloved mini dachshunds, Auggie and Pepper.You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

In this fun and light-hearted episode of "Things I Wish I Knew About…”, Stacey sits down with astrologer Laurelle Fullan for a deep dive into the rich and complex world of astrology. Together, they explore astrology's global appeal and how it offers insight into personality, purpose, and personal growth.Laurelle shares her journey into astrology and breaks down the essentials—from the roles of the sun, moon, and rising signs to the meaning of birth charts, planetary placements, and houses. They unpack how retrogrades affect us, why elements matter, and how astrology can be a powerful tool for self-reflection.Listeners will gain clarity on key astrological concepts like conjunctions, Saturn’s transitions, and the mechanics of predictive astrology. Whether you're a curious beginner or a seasoned star-gazer, this conversation offers practical wisdom on using astrology to navigate relationships, life decisions, and inner transformation.About Laurelle Fullan:Laurelle is an astrologer, yoga and meditation teacher, and the founder of Wild Wandering Creations. Now based in Berlin, she offers astrology readings, courses, and monthly astrology forecasts that blend insight with practicality. With over six years of teaching experience, Laurelle approaches movement and meditation through a trauma-sensitive lens, creating space for self-inquiry and connection. Her work supports deep feelers in navigating life’s cycles with clarity and care.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewildwanderingco/  Website https://www.wildwanderingcreations.com/You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations

In this episode of Things I Wish I Knew About…, Stacey Green sits down with former Team Canada hockey player Kendra Fisher to talk about her powerful journey through mental health challenges and personal growth. Kendra opens up about her struggles with anxiety and trauma, the turning point that led her to therapy, and the non-linear path to healing.They explore practical tools for emotional resilience—like somatic therapy, nutrition, movement, and understanding the nervous system. Kendra shares how she shifted from just coping to actively creating new, healing experiences. This candid conversation dives into the importance of slowing down, embracing self-awareness, and building a life rooted in connection and control.About Kendra Fisher:As a past member of Team Canada’s hockey program, motivational speaker, and firefighter; Kendra shares her personal journey with mental illness and the isolation that cost her the dream of playing in the Olympics. Her ability to invite people into her recovery through vulnerability, authenticity and passion, leaves people understanding our inherent needs for connection and kindness.Follow Kendra:IG, TikTok: kfisher30 and www.kendrafisher.comYou can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/things-i-wish-i-knew-about/donations