How to make it in Toronto
How to make it in Toronto
Karl Shams
Your destination for insightful tips, strategies, and success stories in Toronto & around the world. Join us and obtain important nuggets of information that we can use as we chart our own path to success đź’ˇ Each episode will provide: - 3 Key takeaways that help you overcome obstacles, develop the right mindset as well as work ethic, and finally the skills required to be successful - People struggle with where to start. We'll share the best place/way to start your journey. - The best resources recommended by our guests as well as some sourced by us to help guide you on your path to success.
EP 9: Photography in the City
Capturing the City: Photography as Meditation with Kristopher Grunert In this episode of "How to Make It in Toronto," we sit down with the talented Kristopher Grunert, a world-renowned photographer and the CEO of We Are Journey. Join us as we delve into the fascinating world of photography and explore how it can be a powerful form of meditation. Kristopher shares his unique insights into the art of capturing moments and the cityscape of Toronto through his lens. As a seasoned photographer, he discusses the symbiotic relationship between photography and meditation, highlighting how the creative process can be a meditative practice in itself. Discover the secrets behind Kristopher's stunning visual storytelling and gain a deeper understanding of the thought processes and techniques he employs to create captivating images. We explore the intersection of mindfulness and photography, uncovering the ways in which the art form allows individuals to connect with their surroundings on a profound level. But it's not just about the craft. Kristopher opens up about his journey to success, providing valuable advice for aspiring photographers on what it takes to make it in the competitive world of visual arts. From building a personal brand to navigating the business side of photography, our conversation with Kristopher Grunert is a masterclass in creativity, resilience, and the entrepreneurial spirit. Whether you're an aspiring photographer, a creative soul, or simply curious about the intersection of art and mindfulness, this episode promises to be an inspiring and enlightening exploration of the city's heartbeat through the lens of one of its most distinguished visual storytellers. Join us on "How to Make It in Toronto" as we uncover the secrets of photography as meditation with Kristopher Grunert.
Jan 28, 2024
34 min
EP 3: Founders in the City
The Endy Story: On today's episode, we sit down with the former Creative Director of Endy the online Mattress company that sold to Sleep Country for $89 million dollars Ameet Nathwani. As an entrepreneur in the city of Toronto and more specifically a visible minority entrepreneur, I personally look for people who have similarities both physical and mental to me. With the hope of learning from their journey and using their experience or path and lessons learned to apply to my journey. I met Ameet, through our respective friend and Business partner Vibhu at talkAItive. I learned that Ameet had joined the team as our Creative Director. When I took the time to research Ameet, (LinkedIn search) I quickly learned that he played an integral role in one of the best and well known eCommerce success stories in Canada, the Endy story. A box mattress eCommerce business that sold to Sleep Country for $89M… $89M From mattresses, in a box, online? How??? Being an eCommerce company marketing, branding, and content creation; basically creative as a whole were essential to Endy’s success and here I sit next to the guy who brought that dream into a reality. I got the chance to work with Ameet on a day-to-day basis for about 4 months. In that time safe to say, I learned a lot. For one my writing skills improved tenfold. Quick story, Something I took from working with Ameet was how to approach each person you speak to on their level and speak in their language. Essentially, If you’re addressing a CEO don’t write an email that you would send to a marketing manager. Take the time to understand what’s important to them, to their team, and to their organization. Be clear and direct about your goal and outline exactly what outcome they can expect. Otherwise, you’re wasting their time as well as yours. It was lessons like this that led me to believe even know that Ameet would make the perfect guest. He always took the time to sit down with me and explain process, and strategy and clearly outline execution. Time I can never thank him enough for. So I thought the best thing I could do to return the favor is to pick his brain and share his amazing story with you. I’m sure you’ll hear some amazing insights as well. Ladies and Gentleman Ameet Nathwari. 👏👏
Jan 21, 2024
31 min
EP 8: Data Science in the City
Welcome to another compelling episode of "How to Make It in Toronto"! In today's installment, we have the privilege of sitting down with Ravi Bhanabhai, the esteemed former Chief Data Scientist at talkAItive and a seasoned Machine Learning Consultant. Join us as we delve into the fascinating journey of Ravi's career, exploring the pivotal moments that shaped his success and led him to the cutting-edge realm of artificial intelligence. In this exclusive interview, Ravi generously shares insights into his early professional experiences and the factors that propelled him to where he is today. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence, as Ravi demystifies its intricacies and sheds light on the profound impact it's poised to have on our society. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, aspiring data scientist, or simply curious about the future of AI, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Tune in to "How to Make It in Toronto" as we unravel the inspiring journey of Ravi Bhanabhai and explore the profound implications of artificial intelligence on our collective future.
Jan 14, 2024
40 min
EP 7: Building community in the City
In today's episode, we sit down with Cory Cash who is a successful Photographer and the creator of Black is the Rich podcast and media company that focuses on teaching financial literacy. To help educate the black community as well as support all communities in understanding the world of "finance". This episode is super important to us and close to the heart. In this conversation, both Cory and I are answering some tough questions about building within the black community. We are discussing what we think is a good place to start in regard to what we think needs to be done to change the mentality and grow as a community. 🖤I know you’re going to enjoy this one can’t wait for you guys to hear this. Special thanks to the homie @corycash.co and shout out @blackisthenewrich 🙏 I hope you all enjoy this one! Thanks for listening and we appreciate your support. Take it ease.
Nov 27, 2023
32 min
EP 6: Unlocking the secrets of Success in the City
In today's conversation, we sat down with Isomers Skincare CEO Manuela Marcheggianni. Yes, She’s back!!! 🙌 We’re so fortunate to sit down with Manuela again! In this episode, we learn more about her journey from her childhood to her meteoric rise to the top of the cosmetics industry 🔝 Manuela shares all kinds of insights from what it takes to run a business, as well as how to create content. 🚀 You’ll definitely want to listen to this interview, we had so much fun speaking today 🤩
Nov 13, 2023
1 hr 16 min
EP 5: Design in the City
In this week's episode of How to Make It in Toronto, we have the distinct pleasure of sitting down with a true visionary in the Toronto business scene, Jonathan Nodrick, the CEO of Rollout.ca. Rollout.ca is not only a major player in the Toronto business landscape but also a proud partner of our podcast, and for this special episode, we're recording right in the heart of their dynamic office space. Jonathan Nodrick takes us on a journey through his entrepreneurial adventures, sharing insights on what it takes to make it in the vibrant city of Toronto. We explore the challenges he's faced, the triumphs he's celebrated, and the strategies that have led Rollout.ca to its current position of prominence. Join us as we delve into Jonathan's experiences, discovering the secret sauce that has enabled Rollout.ca to thrive in this bustling metropolis. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a business enthusiast, or simply someone looking for inspiration, this episode is sure to offer valuable insights and lessons on how to navigate the diverse and ever-evolving Toronto business landscape. Tune in to gain an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the collaboration between Rollout.ca and How to Make It in Toronto. Discover what it truly means to build a successful business in this dynamic city and how partnerships like this one can help shape the future of entrepreneurship. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation with the CEO of Rollout.ca, Jonathan Nodrick, as we explore what it takes to make it big in Toronto!
Nov 5, 2023
38 min
EP 4: Art in the City
From looking up to Banksy to getting to work with him. On today's episode, I got to sit down with Geert Decock a a creative design specialist and street artist. 🎨This past weekend he painted a mural during an event hosted by @rollout as part of our partnership and mission to build a community of game changers. ⚡️Geert shared his amazing story and rose from being inspired by @banksy to getting the chance to work with him. 👨‍🎨This is a great opportunity to learn and be inspired. 💪We know you’ll enjoy the conversation as much as we did.
Sep 25, 2023
23 min
EP 2: Hair in the City
In today's conversation, I'm sitting down with Toronto Serial Entrepreneur Rock Da House. You may know him as the Dj who even made an appearance on the BET TV series "Rap City in the Basement" with Big Tigger. I've been going to his barbershop one of his several businesses for the past 11 years. Rock has the most amazing energy and an even better vibe. He has the charisma and drive that has led him to build several successful businesses. On today's show, he'll share some of his best entrepreneurial insights and lessons learned. This is an introduction to a truly inspirational leader and high-performing entrepreneur. I'm looking forward to having him back on the podcast and having many more great conversations. I hope you enjoy this as much as we did. Ladies and gentlemen Rock Da House. 👏👏
Aug 13, 2023
34 min
EP 1: She.E.O's in the City
On the first episode of How to make it in Toronto. I had the pleasure of sitting down and speaking with one of the most inspirational and influential leaders I've ever met. I sat down with Manuela Marchegianni CEO of Isomers skincare. A company that she started with the original goal of treating her own skin and turned into one of the top cosmetic brands not only in Toronto and Canada but also the world.How started? - A stolen blender VSHow it’s going? - A Canadian TV shopping powerhouse Ladies and Gentleman Manuela Marchegianni
Jul 9, 2023
33 min