This week’s guest is a serial entrepreneur, angel investor, and global advisor at the forefront of data and AI. She is the founder & CEO of Mantis Group, a consulting-led tech firm helping organizations unlock the power of artificial intelligence. Her entrepreneurial spark showed early at just 12 years old, she turned a Beanie Babies hustle into $20,000, foreshadowing a lifelong drive for innovation and growth. Today, that spirit extends beyond business, co-founding Superclub, a BIPOC networking community, and Filling the Gap, a Toronto-based nonprofit conference. Alongside sitting on three boards, she continues to invest in startups, advise businesses worldwide, and champion diversity and inclusion in every space she leads. Welcome, Janice Liu.Janice LiuThe Mantis Group InstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeMena MassoudAlex Maryuen
If you follow sports in Canada, you’ve seen this trailblazer redefine what it means to have a voice in the game. Born and raised in Toronto, she broke barriers as the first Black woman to ever host a flagship sports show in Canada: The Shift. And along the way, she’s built a reputation as a fearless storyteller, blending sports, culture, and identity in ways few have dared. But the journey hasn’t been easy—navigating a space that wasn’t always built for her, she’s faced her share of battles, criticism, and moments of doubt. What’s fuelled her rise is resilience, authenticity, and an unwavering commitment to representation. Today, she stands not just as a journalist, but as a cultural force, shaping conversations well beyond the court. Today’s guest is the incomparable… Kayla Grey.Kaya GreyInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeMena MassoudAlex Maryuen
If you grew up in the 2000's, the soundtrack to your youth likely included a few unforgettable songs from this artist who lit up MuchMusic and packed stadiums across Canada. Raised in Toronto’s Little Portugal, he transformed a childhood passion into national stardom, racking up Junos and shaping Canadian pop culture along the way. But behind the spotlight came quiet years, personal battles, and the kind of reflection that only real life can demand. Now, after time away, he’s in the midst of a powerful return: rooted in purpose and fuelled by passion with an exciting new single and tour on the horizon. Today’s guest is none other than… Shawn Desman.Shawn DesmanInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeMena MassoudAlex Maryuen
Today, we’re thrilled to welcome one of Canada’s rising stars in country music. With her authentic sound, she has captivated audiences across America, breaking barriers and carving a unique space as a talented voice in the country music scene. She has become a symbol of resilience, talent, and the power of embracing one's individuality. Welcome SACHA to the GROWTH UNTOLD Podcast!SACHAInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeMena MassoudAlex Maryuen
Today, we’re honoured to have two outstanding Canadian Olympic sprinters with us. Both have captivated the world with their speed, securing a spot in history with relay medals at international tournaments and most recently securing gold at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Both athletes epitomize excellence, resilience, and the unique journeys that have made them forces on and off the track. Welcome, Jerome Blake and Brendon Rodney, to the Growth Untold Podcast. Jerome BlakeBrendon RodneyInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeMena MassoudAlex Maryuen
Today we’re joined by the Chief Growth Officer at FreshBooks and an established leader in the tech industry. Her journey from working in fast-paced consumer goods to being a driving force behind Uber Eats’ launch in Canada, and now helping shape FreshBooks’ growth, is nothing short of inspiring. As the daughter of immigrant entrepreneurs, she brings a deep understanding of small business challenges and is passionate about supporting diverse voices in tech. Welcome, Faye Pang. Faye PangFreshBooksInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeMena MassoudAlex Maryuen
We’re back! Today we are thrilled to welcome a vibrant presence and familiar face in Canadian sports media on Sportsnet. With his unique blend of versatility, sharp insight, and engaging storytelling, he has become a trusted voice for sports fans across the country. Join us as we dive into his inspiring journey, advocacy for diversity, and how he continues to push the boundaries of representation in sports media. Welcome, Faizal Khamisa.Faizal KhamisaInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeMena MassoudAlex Maryuen
Today, we’re thrilled to feature a dynamic Canadian-Jamaican R&B artist whose soulful, authentic melodies are redefining the genre. With hits like Vibe for Me and Hello, she captivates listeners through heartfelt lyrics and Caribbean-inspired rhythms that celebrate her roots. From online sensation to 2024 Juno Award winner for R&B/Soul Recording of the Year, her journey continues to make waves across the industry. Join us as we dive into the path, passion, and creative ventures of the talented Aqyila.AqyilaInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeMena MassoudAlex Maryuen
In this episode, we are joined by an award-winning actor & comedian. Well known for his iconic role as Kimchee in Kim’s Convenience, he has also co-created and stars in the hit show Run the Burbs on CBC. With a career that spans improv, television, and film, he has become a powerful voice in Canada’s entertainment landscape. Join us as we dive into his journey, his advocacy for diversity, and how he continues to push the boundaries of representation in media. Welcome, Andrew Phung! Check out the links below!Andrew PhungInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeMena MassoudAlex Maryuen
After a 5-month hiatus, we're back folks! This week, we’re joined by an accomplished CEO who has redefined industries from retail and luxury fashion to sustainability. From driving growth at Indigo to transforming SSENSE into a global fashion powerhouse, and leading PANGAIA into a future where sustainability meets style, he is pushing boundaries in every way. We’ll explore his journey, insights, and the bold strategies shaping the next wave of retail. Get ready for an inspiring conversation with a true retail industry trailblazer: Krishna Nikhil.Check out the links below!Krishna NikhilInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeMena MassoudAlex Maryuen
Today, we are joined by a singer & songwriter from Toronto known for his unique blends of R&B and Soul. He embarked on his path after releasing his first single, "Nostalgia," which caught the attention of OVO Radio and garnered support from his friend and global artist Shawn Mendes.Since then, Jon's music has received praise and support from numerous industry giants like Billboard, MTV, and BBC, earning a Juno Award nomination for his debut album, accumulating millions of streams on Spotify. And with a full-length project on the horizon, Jon's ability to connect with listeners through his emotive songwriting promises an even greater impact on the music scene. Join us as we explore the journey of music with Toronto artist, JON VINYL! Check our the links below! JON VINYL'S new single: "CLOSURE" JON VINYLInstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeMena MassoudAlex Maryuen
In this episode, we sat down with a leader in the world of marketing. From her beginnings at Anheuser-Busch InBev to her adventures with HelloFresh and Homebase, she has worked across multiple industries with one common thread: an unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation.But our guest is more than just a marketer. According to her LinkedIn bio, she's an impatient meditation student, and when she's not strategizing campaigns, you might find her navigating the rapids as an overconfident kayaker, fearlessly tackling challenges head-on. Buckle up and get ready for an inspiring conversation with Growth Advisor and 2X CMO, Candy Lee!Follow our socials below!InstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeCandy LeeMena MassoudAlex Maryuen
In this episode we dive into the world of acting with a Canadian acting sensation. From the drama of Train 48, to the adventures of Mandalorion, to the laughs of Kim's Convenience, he has charmed audiences with his talent and infectious charisma. And with a knack for bringing characters to life, he has garnered numerous accolades, clinching the Canadian Screen Award for Best Actor in a Comedy Series not once, not twice, but four times for his impeccable portrayal of Mr. Kim. But Paul is more than just a seasoned Actor; he is also a master of versatility from his recent work in the much-anticipated Netflix adaptation of Avatar: The Last Airbender, proving that his talent knows no bounds.So sit back, relax, and get ready to embark on a rollercoaster ride of insights and a few laughs as we dive deep into the world of Paul Sun-Hyung Lee. Follow our socials below!InstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubePaul Sun-Hyung LeeMena MassoudAlex Maryuen
Today, we’re thrilled to welcome a retail titan who knows North America's leading brands inside and out. As the CEO of KIT+ACE, Co-Founder of UNITY Brands, and the mastermind behind Motive Brands Collective, he has over three decades of retail and marketing experience. Known for his transformative leadership, he has scaled businesses and earned top CEO rankings in the Global CEO Awards. Join us as we dive into the world of retail and entrepreneurship with one of Canada’s most celebrated business leaders: David Lui. Follow our socials below!InstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeDavid LuiMena MassoudAlex Maryuen
What's the point of attending a film festival if you can watch the film when it is released in theatres? Today, Jenn Frees, the Chief Business & Marketing Officer at the Toronto International Film Festival (aka TIFF), answers that question in the latest episode of Growth Untold. With a rich background spanning across non-profit and agency sectors, Jenn is looking to take TIFF, the largest public film festival in the world, to new heights. Follow our socials below!InstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeJenn FreesMena MassoudAlex Maryuen
Growth Untold listeners, in this episode we were joined by a global artist, producer, and songwriter. Originating from Lebanon, raised in Sharjah, and now based in Toronto/LA, he began his solo career in early 2000’s with the album 'Face Behind the Face,' earning a JUNO Award nomination. His international breakthrough came with the hit single "Africa," which topped the Billboard Charts at #1 in over 20 different countries. A SOCAN Award winner and a musical force to be reckoned with, our guest continues to shape the global music scene. Join us as we unravel the inspiring journey of artist, songwriter, and producer: Karl Wolf. Follow our socials below!InstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeKarl WolfMena MassoudAlex Maryuen
In this episode we sat down with someone whose talent knows NO bounds. Someone who has been capturing hearts with her singing since her teenage years! Her natural charisma burst onto the international stage when she was a co-host on BET, redefining her as not only a musical artist, but also a magnetic TV personality. A force in music, television, and business — welcome the incredibly talented Keshia Chanté to Growth Untold!Follow our socials below!InstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTube
Toronto Raptors fans and NBA fans will recognize our next guest. You may know him from sitting court side cheering on his beloved Raptors at just about every single home game, but everything that led him to taking that court side seat is an incredible journey that represents hard work, positivity, giving back and so much more. From escaping anti-Sikh riots in India to arriving in Canada and working tirelessly off to become one of the best top car salesmen in our country, our guest today, Nav Bhatia, embodies resilience and generosity in every aspect of his life. Sit back, relax, and prepare to be inspired as Nav shares his remarkable journey with us. Hope you folks enjoy!Follow our socials below!InstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTubeCheck out these links below to purchase Nav Bhatia's incredible bookAmazonIndigoKobo
Meet Julian Franklin & Jermain Franklin, two accomplished brothers who have made their mark on the sports & entertainment landscape. Julian, VP of Partnerships & Strategy at MLSE (Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment) is a seasoned and award-winning Sports Marketing Executive. From leading Marketing efforts at Kraft Heinz and agency Geometry Global, and even venturing into entrepreneurship with his own company, Franklin Management Group – Julian's journey is nothing short of inspiring.Our second guest, is Jermain Franklin, an award-winning journalist and seasoned anchor for TSN - one of Canada's largest sports news and information networks. With over 2 decades of experience under his belt, Jermain has covered some of Canada’s most beloved sports teams including the Toronto Maple Leafs, Calgary Flames, Toronto Blue Jays, Toronto Raptors, and more. Buckle up for an engaging conversation with two sports and entertainment pros! Hope you folks enjoy!Follow our socials below!InstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTube
In this episode we sat down with seasoned marketer, Sona Bajaria, who has navigated across the world of consumer goods, spirits, wines, and cosmetics. She’s made her mark across some of the world’s most renowned organizations including American Express and Avon to Unilever and Pernod Ricard. At Unilever she honed her skills as a marketer steering the grooming portfolio to new heights for global brands including Dove and Suave. Following this she joined Pernod Ricard to lead a portfolio of multiple spirits & wine brands as the VP of Marketing. In her most recent chapter, she took on the role of Chief Executive Officer at King St. Vodka, a brand co-founded by actress Kate Hudson. Hope you folks enjoy!Follow our socials below!InstagramLinkedInTikTokYouTube