Things I Wish I Knew About...

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 @boymamaof4

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 @boymamaof4

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 @boymamaof4

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 @boymamaof4

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 @boymamaof4

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_mars

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 @boymamaof4

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 @boymamaof4

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 @boymamaof4

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 @boymamaof4

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 @boymamaof4

In the inaugural episode of the TITS podcast, Stacey Green introduces the concept of recalibrating life through personal experiences and insights. She discusses the importance of mindset, the power of thoughts in shaping emotions, and how to pivot in challenging situations. The episode emphasizes the significance of self-awareness and the ability to change one's perspective to foster positivity and growth.You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4

In this episode, Stacey Green discusses the challenges of working from home while caring for sick children. She shares personal experiences and practical tips for managing work-life balance during these times. The conversation includes creative activities to keep children engaged and a special guest appearance by her son, River, who shares his thoughts on being home sick. The episode emphasizes the importance of grace and flexibility in parenting and working from home.You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4

In this engaging conversation, Stacey Green and Ashleigh Scott explore Ashleigh’s eclectic journey through the creative industry, from modeling to makeup artistry, and eventually to photography and food blogging. They discuss the serendipitous nature of their meeting, the impact of COVID-19 on career paths, and the importance of community and collaboration in the creative world. Ashleigh shares her experiences with baking, photography, and the challenges of monetizing her skills, culminating in her journey to create a cookbook. The conversation highlights the fluidity of career paths and the importance of following one's passion. Meanwhile, Stacey shares her journey of creating a cookbook, the challenges faced during the process, and the creative chaos of food photography. She reflects on the importance of collaboration, personal growth, and the lessons learned along the way. The discussion also touches on the nuances of food photography, the significance of embracing change, and the value of saying yes to new opportunities.About Ashleigh:I am a wife and mama of 2 lovely girls living in the Greater Toronto Area. After many years in the fashion industry as a curve model and makeup artist, I found myself on the other side of the camera when I discovered food photography and fell into the career of my dreams. What started as a hobby during lockdown quickly became the creative career I had been searching for. I love capturing the vibrance and beauty of food while finding unique ways to bring emotion and feeling to the images I create.Follow Ashleigh@ashleighscottcreativehttps://www.ashleighscott.ca/You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4

In this episode, Stacey Green and Kelly LaVallie discuss the intricate relationship between finances and divorce, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy, especially for women. They explore the emotional aspects of divorce, the necessity of financial awareness in marriage, and the benefits of having legal agreements like prenups. The conversation also highlights the significance of maintaining independence within a relationship and the need for open discussions about money to prevent imbalances and misunderstandings. Kelly shares her expertise in helping women navigate the financial complexities of divorce, providing practical advice on preparing for potential separation and understanding legal rights and responsibilities. Kelly shares insights on cultivating an abundance mindset and the significance of financial literacy for empowerment.About Kelly LaVallie:Kelly LaVallie, CPA, CA is a divorce accountant helping clients navigate the financial implications of marriage breakdown from understanding the family finances to negotiating and structuring the financial settlement. In her book, Untying the Knot, Kelly shows you how to manage your thoughts and feelings so you can untangle your finances with a clear head and calm heart.website: kellylavallie.com; TikTok: kelly_lavalliekelly@kellylavallie.com You can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4

In this hilarious interview between Stacey Green and tattoo artist Luisa (‘Lu’) Pariselli, the married couple delve into the world of tattooing, exploring the journey of becoming a tattoo artist, the intricacies of the tattoo process, and the therapeutic aspects of getting tattooed. They discuss the importance of thoughtful design, the emotional connections people have with their tattoos, and how the tattooing experience can serve as a form of therapy for many clients. The conversation is both informative and personal, providing insights into the art and culture of tattooing. In this engaging conversation, Lu delves into the intricacies of tattoo artistry, exploring the balance between client expectations and artistic integrity. She discusses the realities of tattoo longevity, the emotional and physical journey of getting tattooed, and the importance of trusting the artist's process. The dialogue emphasizes the transformative power of tattoos and the significance of investing in oneself, culminating in a heartfelt reminder that while tattoos may be permanent, life is fleeting.About Luisa Pariselli:Luisa (‘Lu’) Pariselli is a multidisciplinary artist and tattooist at Dreamworx Ink in Vaughan, Ontario. With formal training from the Ontario College of Art & Design in painting and drawing, Luisa brings a fine art sensibility to her tattoo work. She specializes in contemporary styles like trash polka and avant-garde designs, blending bold black lines with expressive color to create dynamic, movement-filled pieces. Luisa values collaboration with her clients, believing that the creative process is enhanced through shared ideas and feedback. Her approachable nature and commitment to originality have attracted clients from across Canada, the U.S., and Europe.Follow Lu at:@lupariselli @dreamworxinkContact: info@dreamworxink.comYou can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4

Show Notes:In this episode, Stacey Green sits down with Dr. Marie Hooper to unpack the often-overlooked complexities of children's mental health. Together, they explore common challenges parents face, including how to recognize signs of issues like ADHD and anxiety. Dr. Hooper offers practical strategies for creating supportive, emotionally safe environments where children can thrive. The conversation highlights the power of open communication, emotional regulation, and the importance of parents modeling healthy behavior. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how to better understand, validate, and support their children's mental well-being.About Marie Hooper:Dr. Marie Hooper (She/Her) is a clinical psychologist (supervised practice), educator, and founder of Flourish Health Services, a neuroaffirming clinic in Toronto. As a late-diagnosed autistic and ADHD clinician, Marie brings both lived experience and clinical expertise to her work with children, teens, and adults. She is a strong advocate for autistic girls, 2SLGBTQIA+ youth, and individuals with PDA, and is currently leading the creation of North America’s first school designed specifically for autistic girls. Marie is passionate about building inclusive spaces where neurodivergent individuals can thrive.Dr. Marie Hooper, C.Psych (Supervised Practice), Founder of Flourish Health ServicesFlourish Health Services: https://www.flourishhealthservices.ca/ Marie Hooper: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marie-hooper-56240352 Marie Hooper Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marie.flourish Flourish Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishhealthservices Flourish Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishhealthservicesYou can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.comVideo and audio production by: Rosanna Araujo @boymamaof4

In this entertaining and informative conversation, Stacey Green and Joanna (“Jo”) Johnson chat about the complexities of Canadian politics, discussing the upcoming federal election, the importance of political engagement, and the challenges of understanding political structures. They explore the roles of various political parties, the significance of leadership, and the impact of policies on society, particularly in relation to environmental issues and taxation. The discussion emphasizes the need for inspiration in political leadership and the importance of informed citizen participation in the democratic process. In this conversation, Jo discusses the importance of Quebec's role in Canadian energy policy, the complexities of national policy in a globalized world, and the implications of tax cuts versus social programs. She emphasizes the need for universal support systems, critiques the media's influence in politics, and explores housing policies and healthcare in Canada. The discussion highlights the interconnectedness of these issues and the necessity for a more informed and engaged electorate. In this conversation, together they discuss various pressing issues affecting Canada, including the housing market crisis, immigration challenges, infrastructure development, environmental regulations, tariffs, and the complexities of national debt. The conversation emphasizes the importance of voting and long-term thinking in addressing these issues, advocating for a more informed and engaged citizenry.Where to Find Joanna Johnson (Unlearn16):Email: 3pommes@gmail.comTikTok / Instagram / Bluesky / Substack: @Unlearn16YouTube: Unlearn16: Class is in SessionBonus Links:2025 Federal Election Party Platforms: CTV NewsPoilievre on Mandatory Treatment for Kids/Prisoners: CTV Politics ArticleYou can also follow Stacey Green (staceygreenliving):TikTok / Instagram: @staceygreenliving YouTube: @staceygreenlivingwww.staceygreenliving.com