Sh*t My Dad Taught Me

Dave Hulshof is a commercial real estate expert with over 15 years’ experience in investment advisory and wealth management. As Co‑Founder of The Investments Group at Royal LePage Burloak, he co-leads one of Canada’s most active property investment teams—analyzing over 1,500 deals annually and facilitating more than $100 million in transactions in 2023 alone   Holding respected financial designations (CLU, CFP), Dave approaches real estate not just as a broker but as a strategic financial advisor—leveraging a vast network and sophisticated analysis to unlock hidden opportunities. Whether it’s off-market properties or complex valuations, his work helps clients build generational wealth through smart, data-driven investments.   Topics Discussed in This Episode – How Dave’s father saved their home from foreclosure – Lessons in resilience and how they shaped his parenting – Commercial multifamily strategy and CMHC financing – Co parenting, therapy, and mental health – Starting a finance podcast with his son – Fitness shows, jujitsu, and personal discipline   This episode was sponsored by Matthew Stevenson Insurance. Website: https://matthew-stevenson.ca/#work

Rick Campanelli is one of Canada’s most recognizable and loved media personalities—a broadcasting icon whose career began when he won MuchMusic’s “MuchTemp” contest in 1994, earning the nickname “Rick the Temp” before becoming “The Franchise” on Much. Over 12 years, he became a fixture on Canadian entertainment television with roles on ET Canada and Deal or No Deal Canada. Since then, he’s transitioned into radio and live TV reporting with CHFI and Breakfast Television Toronto, while remaining deeply rooted in philanthropy and community. Off-screen, Rick is equally devoted to family. A proud father of three, he has openly shared how taking paternal leave early in fatherhood changed his life, cementing his belief in hands-on parenting Topics Discussed in This Episode – Rick’s journey from MuchMusic to ET Canada – The importance of staying authentic in media – Lessons from decades in television and radio – How the industry has evolved and where it is heading – Most memorable celebrity encounters and interviews – Balancing public life with personal values This episode was sponsored by Matthew Stevenson Insurance. Website: https://matthew-stevenson.ca/#work

In this episode, we sit down with Antoine Vaillant, a bodybuilder, entrepreneur, and popular social media personality whose approach to life goes far beyond the gym. Antoine opens up about the mental side of fitness, what it means to push your limits, and how bodybuilding became both a passion and a path to personal growth.   He also shares the real challenges behind competition prep, his philosophy on suffering, and why many people get lost in the pursuit of validation. Whether you're into lifting, mindset, or simply understanding what drives people to become the best version of themselves, this episode offers something honest and real.   Topics Discussed in This Episode – Antoine’s journey through bodybuilding and competition – The mindset needed to build physical and mental strength – Learning from suffering and struggle – The trap of chasing validation through aesthetics – Daily routines and how they shape identity – Finding deeper meaning through fitness – How Antoine uses pain as a tool for growth   This episode was sponsored by Matthew Stevenson Insurance. Website: https://matthew-stevenson.ca/#work

In this episode, we sit down with Brian and Mikey Ehrenworth of Frameworth Sports Marketing, one of the most recognized names in the sports memorabilia world. From working with legends like Wayne Gretzky and Sidney Crosby to managing wild behind-the-scenes moments like recovering Rick Nash’s jerseys from a garbage dump. Brian and Mikey share what it takes to build trust and maintain excellence in the sports world. Their stories are a mix of grit, good timing, and genuine relationships. Whether it's traveling across the country to hang frames in a superstar’s home or coordinating one-of-a-kind memorabilia projects, they’ve built a business where passion meets precision. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to work behind the scenes with the biggest names in sports, this episode gives you a front-row seat. Topics Discussed in This Episode: – How Frameworth became a go-to brand for athletes like Sidney Crosby and Wayne Gretzky – The unbelievable story of Rick Nash’s missing jerseys – Building trust and relationships in the sports industry – Creating authentic memorabilia that fans love – Balancing family business dynamics with professional growth

A Bold, New Cancer Medicine that Big Pharma Doesn't Want People to Use | Lee Whitley | Ep.22 | In this episode, we sit down with Lee Whitley, the founder of Lee’s Oil, who has spent nearly a decade giving away plant-based medicine to people battling serious illnesses. Lee shares the story behind his cannabis-based formula that he claims has helped people with brain cancer, colon cancer, lupus, autism, and more. He tells us about the lives saved, including children, pets, and patients once told they had weeks to live. Lee says the proof is in the people—and he invites anyone to reach out and talk to them directly. In fact, he once turned down a $1.5 billion offer for his formula, refusing to hand over control to big pharmaceutical companies. His mission is to make healing accessible, not profitable. This episode offers a rare look into the mindset of someone who believes so deeply in what he’s doing, he’s willing to lose everything to keep doing it. Topics Discussed in This Episode: How Lee’s medicine is made using CBD and plant-based ingredients Why he turned down billions of dollars from pharmaceutical companies Stories of people who say they’ve healed using his formula The link between immune health and disease recovery Why he gives out medicine for free to those who can’t afford it

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Ira Price, an emergency physician and founder of Synergy Health Services. Ira shares his unconventional journey from dropping out of high school to enrolling in one of the top medical schools in the world. As someone who struggled with ADHD, he opens up about strategies that helped him finally understand how to learn and succeed.   Ira's story is a reminder that you can break the mold, take a different path, and still create something meaningful.   Topics Discussed in This Episode:   – Growing up with ADHD – Discovering Ritalin and how it changed his ability to learn – Leaving high school and finding his way into medicine – Psychedelics and the early moments of self-awareness – Starting Synergy Health Services and developing cannabis protocols – Being a father and learning through failure – Honest thoughts on modern medicine and what needs to change

In this episode, we sit down with Ray Lugo, who shares the story of a near-death experience that changed everything. What started as a relaxing day on the lake with family turned into a fight for survival when sudden waves and exhaustion pulled him under. After helping someone else get to safety, Ray found himself alone, out of energy, and sinking. He was convinced that he met his end. But instead of fear, he describes a moment of peace, clarity, and vivid reflection. After surviving the near death experience, it helped change Ray's approach on life. This conversation goes far beyond survival. It’s about letting go, reconnecting with purpose, and shifting how we see life itself.   Topics Discussed in This Episode: - The events leading up to Ray’s near-death experience - What it felt like to mentally prepare for death - Processing fear, stillness, and surrender - How the experience reshaped Ray’s perspective on life - The importance of breathing - What it means to live with intention after surviving

In this episode, we sit down with Zyad, the creative force behind Daddy Day Club, to talk about chasing dreams while showing up as a present parent. Z shares his journey from DJing Toronto nightclubs to working in data analytics all while building a brand focused on modern fatherhood. We dive into the reality of being a dad with big goals: the balance between family and ambition, his experiences launching startups, and how he’s reshaped what success looks like. Topics Discussed: The creation and mission behind Daddy Day Club Z’s journey being a DJ Struggles and lessons from failed startups Parenting, presence, and generational expectations Letting go of perfection and redefining success

In this episode, we sat down with Ron Foxcroft. He is a referee, entrepreneur, and the inventor of the world-famous Fox 40 pealess whistle. Ron shares the incredible journey of turning a refereeing frustration into a global product used by the NBA, NHL, NCAA, and even the military. But the story doesn’t stop there. Ron talks about officiating Olympic basketball, building Fluke Transport, and his experience meeting with the Queen of England. From cold calls and missed flights to entrepreneurial grit and family legacy, this episode is packed with life lessons, hilarious stories, and raw honesty from a man who never stopped betting on himself. Topics Discussed: - Inventing the Fox 40 and changing sports forever - Refereeing the 1976 Olympic gold medal basketball game - Building Fluke Transport and surviving in trucking - Meeting the Queen and the story behind a royal gift - Lessons on leadership, work ethic, and giving back

In this episode, we sit down with Bryan Hannon, founder of Trinity Sauna Inc., to hear the raw and powerful story behind his personal transformation. After battling substance abuse, going through a divorce, losing his job, and hitting rock bottom with a DUI arrest, Bryan rebuilt his life from the ground up. He shares how that breaking point led him to sobriety, fatherhood, and a new mission—creating a safe space for physical and emotional healing. From cold plunges to deep conversations, Trinity Sauna became more than a wellness facility—it became a community built on vulnerability, growth, and second chances. Topics Discussed in This Episode: The night Bryan hit rock bottom and how it changed everything How sobriety reshaped his purpose and relationship with his son Creating Trinity Sauna as a space for healing and mental health support The power of vulnerability and holding space for others How contrast therapy and cold exposure impact more than just the body Rebuilding life through fitness, fatherhood, and small daily actions Why men need to talk—and how Bryan is helping make that happen

Reginald Matthew Michael Wesley Adamantium Green Werner Lochner Grey, but you can call him Reggie. That’s not the name his parents gave him, it’s one he chose for himself. Even if it makes ID checks a bit more complicated, it’s all part of Reggie’s unique story. In this episode, Reggie shares his experiences living a nomadic lifestyle, creating content out of his trailer, and crossing paths with unforgettable people. He reflects on his early days in filmmaking before the tech boom, his encounters with the paranormal, and his journey through substance use. Now in a new chapter of life, Reggie talks about his addiction to learning, his search for purpose, and what it’s like to start a family later in life. Topics Discussed in This Episode: The story behind his name and how it causes trouble Filmmaking before all the new technology Living a nomadic lifestyle and van life content creation Paranormal and extraterrestrial experiences Substance use His recent found addiction to learning Starting a family at a later age

Probably our most educated guest yet. In this episode, we sit down with Moustafa Hassan, a licensed therapist and founder of EMClinic, to talk about personal transformation, purpose, and mental health. He has studied in the United States, Russia and the UK over the span of many years. In this conversation we talk about what it means to live with intention, how mental and physical health are connected, and why therapy can be one of the most powerful tools for lasting change. There is a heavy focus on therapy that helps people deal with childhood traumas. Topics Discussed in This Episode: What is the meaning of life Childhood trauma and unfinished business What is happiness 5 necessities a child needs from their parents The link between physical and emotional health. Links: http://www.emclinic.ca

In this episode, we sit down with Chris Sandre, Senior National Manager at the Mark Anthony Group, to talk about brand-building, sports, and fatherhood. Chris shares his journey from studying sports management at the University of Florida to helping lead many new product launches at the Mark Anthony Group, the group behind the creation of Mike Hard lemonade, White Claw and Mas+ by Messi.  Beyond his corporate achievements, Chris opens up about his love for sports—not just as a pastime, but as a powerful way to teach kids about discipline, teamwork, and life. From the field to the boardroom, this conversation dives into how sports shape character and how branding can influence culture. Topics Discussed in This Episode: Chris' experience studying sports management at the University of Florida Alcohol consumption behaviours between generations The story of White Claw’s launch in Canada Bringing Mas+ (Messi’s drink) to the Canadian market How sports are a great tool to teach kids about life The importance of sports and how they build core life memories

In this episode, we sit down with Matt Stevenson to talk about loss, healing, and fatherhood. Matt opens up about the death of his father by suicide—a moment that changed everything. He shares what it was like navigating grief, the guilt he carried, and how he eventually found a way forward through therapy and inner work. But this isn’t just a story about pain. It’s about resilience. Matt talks about the promises he’s made to himself, how he’s chosen to show up differently for his own kids, and the importance of being a present, supportive father. His story is raw, honest, and full of wisdom for anyone who’s ever faced loss and wanted to break the cycle. Topics Discussed in This Episode: How Matt became a narrator for the Toronto Blue Jays Reflections on fatherhood, divorce, and showing up for your kids Losing his father to suicide and learning to heal How Reiki, therapy, and mindset work helped him rebuild Stories from his days as a national canoe racing champion Matt’s journey into music, voice acting, and public speaking Lessons on wealth, legacy, and preparing your family for the future Building community through the Burlington Dads and charity events

Episode Description: In this episode, we sit down with Scott Fox, a longtime Canadian radio host and now the voice behind the hit podcast Scott Fox After 9. With over two decades in radio—most notably at Z103.5 and Energy 95.3—Scott shares how he transitioned from live FM broadcasts to building a national podcast audience. We explore Scott’s passion for news, politics, and current events, his thoughts on mental health and fatherhood, and how he balances his role as a step-parent. He also shares the journey to getting your own radio show and how he transitioned to having his own podcast show. Topics Discussed in This Episode: The evolution of Scott’s career from DJ to morning host Why he left FM radio to launch Scott Fox After 9 The importance of unbiased and thoroughly explained content in today’s media landscape The public's attitude on Canada's political situation Navigating mental health and vulnerability as a man and father Being a step-parent and supporting kids through modern challenges Behind the scenes with the Toronto Rock and local sports broadcasting

In this episode, we sat down with Dave Knight, a police officer, real estate investor, and financial strategist who is helping first responders build lasting wealth. As the founder of 911 Wealth Network and First Responders Wealth Network, Dave combines his first-hand experience in law enforcement with his deep knowledge of real estate investing and financial planning to help others secure their future. Dave has a hands-on approach to real estate investing, from single-family homes to duplex conversions and larger multi-unit properties. In this episode, we dive deep into how to force equity, smart investment strategies, and where he believes the market is headed—insights that are valuable for anyone looking to grow their portfolio. Topics Discussed in This Episode: How Dave balances a full-time police career with real estate investing The evolution of his investing strategy—from student rentals to multi-family development Why he shifted from conversions in Hamilton to ground-up builds in Barrie The importance of pivoting in changing market conditions The concept of the “missing middle” in housing and why it matters Mental health, mindset, and maintaining balance as a first responder Why investing in yourself is the first step for new real estate investors

Episode Description: Jim Germanakos is a man with many stories. His dad said that Jim had done more things by the age of 21 than he had done in his entire life. He has been a NYPD officer, 9/11 first responder, actor, and Super Bowl commercial star. He served as a police officer in New York during the 9/11 attacks. He shares a detail that was missed by many during that time. After years in law enforcement, Jim made the leap into acting, landing roles in major productions like Amazon’s hit series Reacher and appearing in various Super Bowl commercials.   Topics Discussed in This Episode:   The story of how he would drive from NYC to Burlington to see his wife. Serving as an NYPD officer during 9/11 How his experience differed from being a cop to being cast as a cop Dirty cops in Coney Island Making the most of every opportunity

In this episode of Shit My Dad Taught Me, we sit down with Richard Fast, the creator of the hit game MindTrap and a best-selling author. Richard shares how a $17 million loss from his failed video game venture led to one of the most successful games in history. He also dives into insights from his books, discussing misconceptions about obesity and how to approach difficult decisions. Topics Discussed in This Episode: - Navigating a failed video game venture and the aftermath - The story behind the creation of MindTrap - Why failure can be the best teacher in business and life - Insights from Richard’s books on obesity misconceptions - How to approach difficult decisions with confidence - What makes a product go from idea to bestseller - Lessons on staying resilient and adapting after failure

Episode 8: Ryan Gallagher on Addiction, Mental Health, and Resilience As An Endurance Athlete  In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Gallagher, a firefighter, mental health advocate, and endurance athlete, to discuss his journey through addiction recovery, overcoming grief, and building resilience. Ryan opens up about the loss of his father at 16, how it shaped his career, and his struggles with alcohol before becoming 558 days sober. He shares how running became a tool for mental clarity and how he's now using it to give back—by running 21 half-marathons in 21 days to raise $21,000 for youth mental health. Topics Discussed in This Episode: How losing his father led Ryan to firefighting The struggles of addiction and the path to sobriety The impact of mental health in first responder careers How running became a powerful tool for healing The importance of finding your support system and true friends Ryan’s 21-day running challenge for youth mental health

Episode 7: Andrew Irving on Childhood Alcohol Addiction and Overcoming the Challenges of a Rockstar Career Path. In this powerful episode of Shit My Dad Taught Me, musician Andrew Irving shares his raw and emotional journey through addiction, redemption, and self-discovery. As an adopted child, Andrew struggled with identity and belonging, which contributed to his early battles with drugs and alcohol. He opens up about the life-changing moment when his son gave him an ultimatum, how music became his saving grace, and the lessons he learned from his grandmother and father. From his early days in church performances to touring the world as a musician, Andrew reflects on the highs and lows of his career and the personal growth that shaped him. This episode is filled with deep insights, hard truths, and inspiring messages about resilience, family, and finding purpose. Topics Discussed in This Episode: How addiction nearly cost Andrew his family—and how he turned his life around The moment his son told him to stop drinking or lose him forever The lessons grandmother taught him about resilience and grace His journey from church performances to international music tours Why music became his purpose and how he uses it to help others The emotional struggles of being adopted and how it shaped his life The importance of leading with grace and pushing past self-doubt