How to make it in Toronto

In this success story on How to Make it in Toronto, we dive into the fascinating success story of Ozempic, the revolutionary drug developed by Novo Nordisk that has transformed the worlds of diabetes care and weight management.We explore how this once niche pharmaceutical innovation became a global health and business success, reshaping lives, sparking conversations about wellness, and turning into one of the most in-demand medications on the planet.You’ll learn how Ozempic was created, the science behind its effectiveness, the challenges Novo Nordisk faced, and how it became a cultural and commercial powerhouse across Canada and beyond. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, health professional, or someone interested in innovation and global impact—this episode offers valuable insight into how strategy, science, and timing can redefine success.

AI can transform your business—if you choose the right tool. In this episode of How to Make it in Toronto, I share 3 key tips every entrepreneur & professional should know before adopting AI.🎧 Tune in now!

In this episode of How to Make it in Toronto, host Karl sits down with Leandro Cartelli, CEO and Co-Founder of Lana Talent. With 15+ years of experience leading Talent Acquisition at global companies like Accenture, Boehringer Ingelheim, PedidosYa, and DeliveryHero, Leandro has built a career on connecting businesses with top talent.Now, through Lana Talent, he helps growing companies find the right people who not only perform but also align with culture and values.Leandro shares his unique approach to hiring — blending strategy, data, and a human touch — while breaking down what startups and scaling businesses need to know to attract, retain, and empower top-tier talent. If you’re building a team or preparing for growth, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.👉 Follow🔗 LinkedIn: Leandero Cartelli📸 Instagram: Lana Talent💻Connect: lanatalent.com

In this episode of How to Make It in Toronto, we sit down with Robin Nathaniel — TEDx speaker, author, award-winning media strategist, and founder of GPS, LLC. With accolades like the Telly Award Gold and the Midi Money Major Award, Robin has built a career working with global brands like vidIQ, DIESEL, NBC Universal, and Emmy, Tony, and Grammy-winning talent.We explore Robin's journey from media studies in New York to hosting major podcasts on the Bleav Network and 19 Media Group, and how he blends creativity with strategy to help creators thrive in today’s digital world. He also shares insights into AI’s role in content creation, personal branding, and what it really takes to build meaningful influence online.Whether you're a content creator, entrepreneur, or aspiring strategist — this is one conversation you don’t want to miss.Get a copy of Social Media Sync 📚Here’s what you’ll learn inside:→ How to build authentic digital connections→ How to create content that’s algorithm-proof→ How to show up like a human in the age of AI👉 Follow:🔗 LinkedIn: Robin Nathaniel📸 Instagram: robbinmarx▶️ YouTube: @LandTheTalk💻Connect: robbinmarx.substack.com

In this episode, we sit down with Al Zdenek — Founder and Executive Chair of Cake Club, a celebrated financial planning leader, and author of two acclaimed Forbes books. Al shares his remarkable journey from building and exiting a highly successful financial firm to overcoming bankruptcy and emerging stronger than ever.He breaks down practical strategies for wealth management, the essentials of sound financial planning, and his mission to help people live fully in the present while securing their future. Al’s decades of experience and genuine passion for helping others achieve financial freedom make this a must-listen conversation.If you’re ready to learn how to build, protect, and enjoy your wealth — and get inspired by a story of resilience and success — this episode is for you.👉 Follow Cakeclub™:🔗 LinkedIn📸 Instagram📘 Facebook▶️ YouTubeTune in now on all major platforms!

In this episode of How to Make it in Toronto, we sit down with John Long, the CEO of Thynk AI, to explore his incredible journey from the HVAC and Real Estate industry to leading one of the most forward-thinking AI platforms in tech.John shares how he made a career change, and what inspired him to launch Thynk AI — a company transforming how hotels and resorts leverage data and artificial intelligence.We dive deep into:His shift from HVAC entrepreneur to tech entrepreneurshipHow to simplify complex technology to solve real business problemsThe leadership lessons that helped him scale across industriesThe role of resilience, optimism, and family in long-term successWhether you're a founder, creative, or professional exploring new paths, John’s story will inspire you to think bigger and take bold steps toward your goals.🎧 Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and everywhere you stream podcasts.

In this episode of How to Make it in Toronto, we sit down with Steven Puri — a true renaissance entrepreneur whose journey takes us from software engineering at USC to winning an Academy Award for Independence Day, to overseeing Hollywood blockbusters like Die Hard, The Wolverine, and 24 at major studios like 20th Century FOX and DreamWorks.Steven shares the three core themes we focus on in this podcast:How he got startedHow he overcomes failure and keeps goingThe resources and mindsets that help him thriveWe dive into the creation of his first business, Centropolis Effects, a CGI powerhouse that helped shape modern film and was acquired for $15 million. But Steven’s journey didn’t stop there. After experiencing the highs of executive life in Hollywood, he returned to entrepreneurship — and faced failure head-on. In this episode, he unpacks what those failures taught him, how to take accountability, and the power of persistence.Today, Steven is the Founder and CEO of The Sukha Company, a platform that helps remote workers overcome procrastination and distraction, so they can stay focused, energized, and connected. He shares how Sukha is transforming the way we approach work — not just with tools, but with a supportive community.What you’ll learn in this episode:How to turn setbacks into stepping stonesWhat all successful people understand about failureThe habits and tools that high performers use to manage time and energyHow to lead teams with empathy and clarityThe essential entrepreneurial skills: knowing your customer, solving real problems, and listening deeplySteven also shares his go-to productivity tools (his calendar + Google Tasks), tips for building great companies, and leadership insights that every founder and creative should hear.🎧 This is truly one of our best episodes yet — packed with wisdom, actionable advice, and an inspiring story of reinvention. Whether you're building a business, pivoting careers, or just looking for a motivational reset, this episode is for you.Connect with Steven Puri:📧 Email: steven@thesukha.co🔗 LinkedIn: Steven PuriListen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.

In this episode of How to Make it in Toronto, we dive deep into the incredible success story of Jensen Huang, the visionary founder and CEO of NVIDIA — the tech giant powering the future of AI, machine learning, self-driving cars, and more.From washing dishes in a Kentucky boarding school to becoming one of the most influential leaders in tech, Huang’s journey is a masterclass in resilience, innovation, and long-term vision.🎧 In this episode, you’ll learn:How Jensen Huang got started and the early challenges he facedThe rise of NVIDIA and how it transformed the GPU industryWhy NVIDIA is at the center of the global AI revolutionThe mindset, leadership style, and strategic pivots that built a $2 trillion empireKey lessons and resources that every entrepreneur can learn fromIf you're a founder, creator, or business professional trying to navigate your own path — this story is a blueprint for thinking big, staying the course, and betting on the future.📱 Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.#NVIDIA #JensenHuang #AI #Entrepreneurship #TechLeadership #StartupStories #Innovation #Podcast

This is one of the most powerful and inspiring interviews I’ve ever done!  I sit down with Marc Reede—author, speaker, and President of Rave Speakers Bureau—as he shares the game-changing insights from his upcoming book, The Coffee Code (dropping April 16, 2025 ).Marc takes us on his journey from college to law school to building a thriving business, revealing the keys to success through networking, mentorship, and the art of storytelling. Whether you're a student, young professional, or entrepreneur striving to level up, this episode is packed with high-impact strategies to help you build meaningful relationships, inspire others, and stand out in any industry. What you’ll learn:✅ How to build authentic connections that open doors✅ Why mentors are crucial for your success (and how to find the right one!)✅ The power of storytelling to captivate, inspire, and influenceDon’t miss this episode—it’s filled with valuable wisdom, real-life lessons, and powerful takeaways you can apply today. Marc’s book, The Coffee Code, is available for pre-order now on Amazon and Barnes & Noble! 📚 Pick up a copy on Amazon: www.amazon.com/Coffee-Code-Meeting-Introduce-Opportunities-ebook🤝 Connect on LinkedIn: Marc Reede➕ Follow Marc on TikTok & IG: @mentormarcreede💻 Learn more about Marc's work; website: https://coffeecodebook.com/🎙️ Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms!♻️ Like , Subscribe & Share if you enjoy the content. Take it ease 🙏

In this episode of How to Make it in Toronto, I sit down with Howard Freedman, a renowned financial aid consultant and author of Making College Happen. With decades of experience, Howard has helped countless students and families navigate the complex world of financial aid, unlocking opportunities for a brighter future.We dive deep into:✅ How Howard built his financial aid consulting business and the challenges he’s overcome✅ The biggest mistakes students and parents make when applying for financial aid✅ Powerful resources that have helped him succeed in business and beyond✅ Insider strategies from his book Making College Happen (Available on Amazon)✅ An inspiring message for anyone striving to achieve their goalsHoward’s story is one of perseverance, knowledge, and impact. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a student planning for college, or someone looking for motivation, this episode is packed with valuable insights!📌 Learn more about Howard’s work at Financial Aid Consulting: https://www.financialaidconsulting.com/📚 Pick up a copy of Making College Happen Here: https://amzn.to/410qG9D✉️ Connect with Howard here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howard-freedman-3b2581123/🔗 Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share!

In this episode of How to Make it in Toronto, I sit down with Jasmin Dennis, a Health and Wellness expert with over 30 years of hands-on experience. Jasmin has been instrumental in building over 20 fitness facilities from the ground up—including three for former Heavyweight Champion Lennox Lewis, while also serving as a member of his boxing team.She shares her journey, the challenges she faced, and how she overcame them, offering valuable insights into personal training, health education, and the power of resilience in business and life. Now a Certified Herbalist, Jasmin continues to push the boundaries of wellness and fitness.We also dive into a crucial topic—how to overcome emotional burnout. Jasmin provides expert tips on managing stress, maintaining balance, and prioritizing your well-being, especially in high-performance environments.Tune in to hear her incredible story and gain practical advice on success, health, and wellness! 🎧💪📺 Watch now on YouTube & listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share!

In this inspiring episode of How to Make it in Toronto, we sit down with Coach Kevin Brewer—a military veteran turned mindset and weight loss coach. Coach Kevin shares his incredible journey from serving in the military to overcoming severe injuries and illness, ultimately transforming his life and pushing his limits through Spartan races.He dives deep into the power of a relentless, never-give-up mindset, offering insights on how to shift your perspective, rewire your thinking, and take control of your lifestyle. Whether you’re facing personal struggles, fitness challenges, or mindset roadblocks, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you break through barriers.Tune in for another insightful conversation that will leave you feeling motivated and ready to take on any challenge! 🎙️💪For more insights, follow Coach Kevin here: @coachkevinbrewer

In this episode of How to Make It in Toronto, we sit down with Suriel Arellano—an author, speaker, inventor, and executive mentor with over two decades of experience in digital transformation, AI leadership, and organizational development. We dive into Suriel’s journey to success, how he transitioned into executive coaching, and what it takes to be a great CEO in today’s rapidly evolving business world. Then, we explore the impact of AI on organizations and the future of work, uncovering key insights for leaders navigating digital transformation. Finally, we discuss his latest book, Leading in the Age of AI, and how businesses can adapt to the changing landscape. Tune in for an engaging and insightful conversation on business, leadership, and AI! 📖 Learn more about Suriel and his work at tec4digital.com 🎧 Available now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all streaming platforms!

In this episode of How to Make it in Toronto, I sit down with Thomas Beattie, Co-Founder and CEO of Eli Report. Eli Technologies Corp. is a Vancouver-based real estate technology company transforming the residential and commercial real estate industry with innovative software solutions. Eli Report, the company’s flagship product, is an AI-powered condo document review platform designed for real estate professionals. It streamlines the due diligence process by extracting critical building issues from years’ worth of documentation in just minutes, empowering realtors and prospective buyers with the insights they need. Thomas takes us through his inspiring journey, from investment banking to scaling and leading companies as a CEO. He shares valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, insights into building and growing a business, and how Eli Report is revolutionizing the real estate market with cutting-edge technology. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, real estate professional, or someone looking for inspiration, this episode is packed with actionable insights and innovative ideas. Don’t miss it! 🔗 Learn more about Eli Report Tune in now on YouTube, Spotify, or Apple Podcasts!

Meta is planning to reduce fact-checking and moderation on its platforms, all in the name of free speech and expression. Now, while this might sound great on the surface, there are some serious implications—both good and bad—that you need to know about. Let’s break it down. NEGATIVE CONSEQUENCES 1️⃣ More Disinformation – With less fact-checking, we could see a rise in misleading news, deepfakes, and conspiracy theories, making it harder than ever to separate truth from fiction. 2️⃣ Increase in Hate Speech & Toxic Content – X has already shown that when you dial back moderation, hate speech, harassment, and harmful content go up. This could create a more hostile online environment. 3️⃣ Brand Safety Risks – For businesses, influencers, and content creators, this lack of moderation might mean your ads or content could be placed next to controversial or offensive material, damaging your reputation. POSITIVE CONSEQUENCES 1️⃣ More Free Speech & Expression – Users will have fewer restrictions on what they can post, which means more diverse perspectives and less censorship from centralized fact-checkers. 2️⃣ More Engagement & Debate – With fewer content limitations, conversations might become more dynamic, allowing users to engage in open discussions—even on controversial topics. 3️⃣ Less Shadowbanning & Algorithmic Suppression – If you’ve ever felt like your content wasn’t reaching people because of hidden moderation rules, this change could mean a fairer playing field for creators. HOW TO MAKE SURE YOUR CONTENT REACHES THE RIGHT AUDIENCE & HAS A POSITIVE IMPACT 1️⃣ Verify Before You Share – With fact-checking being reduced, it’s on us to make sure what we post is accurate and credible. Always check multiple sources before spreading information. 2️⃣ Engage in Positive Conversations – With a potential rise in hate speech, stand out by leading meaningful discussions. Avoid toxic debates and focus on building a community around your content. 3️⃣ Adapt Your Strategy for Visibility – The algorithms may shift, so experiment with different types of content (video, carousels, text posts) to see what resonates best. Also, keep an eye on Meta’s updates to stay ahead of the changes. At the end of the day, these changes are coming, whether we like them or not. What matters is how we use these platforms to create impact, build brands, and share valuable ideas. What do you think? Will these changes make Meta better or worse? Let me know in the comments! And don’t forget to follow How to Make it in Toronto for more insights.

1. Create the Right Environment for Creativity - Step 1: Remove Distractions Designate a dedicated, clutter-free space where you can focus. Turn off notifications and minimize interruptions to let your mind roam freely. Insight: Creativity thrives when your mind has space to wander without being bombarded by outside stimuli. - Step 2: Incorporate Stimuli That Inspire You Surround yourself with things that spark curiosity—books, art, music, or even nature. These serve as catalysts for new ideas. Example: Steve Jobs often cited nature walks as critical to his creative process. - Step 3: Encourage Collaboration Invite diverse thinkers into brainstorming sessions. Different perspectives can ignite unique solutions. Actionable Tip: Organize “idea jam sessions” with your network. --- 2. Practice Divergent Thinking - Step 1: Ask Open-Ended Questions Shift your mindset from “What is?” to “What if?” or “How might we?” to explore untapped possibilities. Example: Instead of asking “How do I grow my business?” ask, “What unconventional ways can I connect with my audience?” - Step 2: Freewrite or Mind Map Dedicate time to write or visually map out ideas without judgment. Allow the ideas to flow without editing. Actionable Tip: Use apps like Miro or pen and paper for a digital detox brainstorming session. - Step 3: Explore Analogies and Metaphors Relating one idea to another can lead to breakthrough moments. Insight: Think of an unrelated field—how might a chef’s approach to creativity inform your content creation? --- 3. Cultivate a Growth-Oriented Mindset - Step 1: Embrace Failure as Feedback Understand that every idea doesn’t need to be perfect. Each misstep provides insights that refine your creative process. Example: Thomas Edison’s countless failed attempts at creating the lightbulb were stepping stones to success. - Step 2: Commit to Lifelong Learning Constantly expose yourself to new knowledge through books, courses, or conversations. The more inputs you have, the more connections your brain can make. Actionable Tip: Dedicate 20 minutes a day to learning something outside your field. - Step 3: Take Breaks and Recharge Creativity often emerges during periods of rest. Incorporate regular breaks into your workflow to avoid burnout. Example: Many great ideas come while showering or during a walk because the brain has time to process subconsciously. --- Podcast challenge: A practical challenge for our listeners: - “This week, dedicate 15 minutes a day to one of these techniques. Share your most creative idea with us on social media using #HTMITCreativity. We might feature your story in an upcoming episode!”

This week, we’re thrilled to sit down with Ryan Rigterink, CEO of Leaders Ops. Ryan brings a wealth of experience working with leaders across industries to tackle some of the biggest challenges in business today—recruitment, employee retention, reducing turnover, and fostering productivity. In this insightful episode, Ryan dives deep into: ✅ Strategies to attract top-tier talent.✅ Building and sustaining a culture of growth.✅ Boosting engagement and improving employee retention.✅ Practical tips for maximizing team performance and results. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, a business leader, or just starting your journey, Ryan’s expertise offers actionable insights to help you elevate your leadership game and achieve more with your team. Don't miss this knowledge-packed conversation—tune in now and transform the way you lead! 🌟 Available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms. Subscribe today!

Join us for an inspiring conversation with John Bromley, the visionary founder of Charitable Impact! In this episode, John shares his journey of building one of Canada’s leading philanthropic platforms, offering a deep dive into: 💡 How a Donor-Advised Fund works and its benefits 💪 His unique methodology for overcoming obstacles 🎉 What makes him most proud in his incredible career Get ready for an engaging and insightful episode filled with actionable advice, personal stories, and a lot of fun. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a leader changing how people think about giving back. 📲 Tune in now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube!

Success Story of Elon Musk We’re diving into the extraordinary story of Elon Musk—a name synonymous with innovation, resilience, and bold ambition. From his beginnings in South Africa to becoming the world’s richest man, Musk’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. We’ll explore how he built PayPal, Tesla, and SpaceX, the obstacles he faced along the way, and what makes him stand out as a visionary entrepreneur. But this episode isn’t just about Elon Musk’s achievements—it’s about the lessons you can learn from his journey For more information check out our YouTube channel 📺 The Tools Behind the Success Books: From The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy to physics textbooks, Musk’s love of reading has been a cornerstone of his self-education. Mentors: Collaborators like Peter Thiel and other Silicon Valley pioneers provided guidance and resources. Networks: Musk leveraged Silicon Valley’s vibrant ecosystem of investors, engineers, and innovators. Relentless Curiosity: Whether teaching himself coding as a child or mastering rocket science as an adult, Musk’s willingness to learn has been his greatest asset. Hopefully this provides some valuable insights. Share your thoughts below. Thanks for listening. Take it ease ✌🏾

Success Tip: Top 3 Things to Build a Personal Brand in a Digital World 1. Define Your Unique Value Proposition (UVP) 💯 Your personal brand starts with understanding what makes you unique and valuable. 2. Build an Authentic Online Presence 🙃 Your digital footprint should consistently showcase who you are and what you stand for. 3. Leverage Networking and Collaboration 🤝🏾 Personal branding isn’t just about broadcasting—it’s about building relationships. 3 Key Takeaways 💡 1. Define: Be clear about what you stand for and who you serve. 2. Present: Show up authentically and consistently online. 3. Connect: Build meaningful relationships that extend your reach and impact. What are some other benefits to building your personal brand? (Share in the comments below 👇🏾) For more information and videos like this, check out our YouTube channel and don’t forget to like and subscribe 📺 Take it ease ✌🏾