Finding Your True North

Paul Gill

Finding Your True North” is a podcast dedicated to uncovering the guiding principles that fuel the success of entrepreneurs, business owners, and intrapreneurs. Through insightful conversations, we explore how leaders navigate challenges, align their work with their core values, and create lasting impact. Whether you're building a startup, leading innovation within a corporation, or scaling a business, this podcast will help you clarify your direction and stay true to your purpose.

  1. 2h ago

    Be True to Yourself: Integrity, Purpose & Empowering the Next Generation with Pleshette Boyer

    Hope Concert Series, community engagement, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, integrity, personal growth, music production, mentorship, true north, balancing family Summary In this episode of 'Finding Your True North', host Paul Gill interviews Pleshette Boyer, CEO of Hope Concert Series. They discuss Pleshette's journey in founding a nonprofit organization aimed at empowering youth in marginalized communities through music and mentorship. The conversation explores the challenges faced by today's youth, the importance of community engagement, and the guiding principles that drive Pleshette's work. She shares personal stories of defining moments that shaped her vision, the significance of integrity in her career, and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. The episode concludes with a glimpse into Pleshette's future plans, including her upcoming podcast. Takeaways Hope Concert Series focuses on empowering marginalized communities. Youth today are hungry for direction and positive leadership. Community engagement is crucial for youth development. Defining moments can shape one's vision and purpose. Integrity is essential in navigating career challenges. Entrepreneurs should stay true to themselves and their values. Always be a student of your craft and learn continuously. Balancing family and work requires structure and time management. Future plans include launching a podcast to share personal experiences. Every individual has a unique story that deserves to be heard. Empowering Communities Through Music Navigating Youth Challenges Today "Reach one, teach one." "Be true to yourself." "Kids need structure." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hope Concert Series 02:49 Understanding Today's Youth 05:34 Defining Moments and Community Impact 08:36 Guiding Principles and True North 11:45 Navigating Challenges with Integrity 14:41 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 17:23 Balancing Family and Career 20:32 Looking Ahead: New Ventures 23:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

  2. 4d ago

    Building a Future in Belize: Integrity, Entrepreneurship & Resilience with Hassan Tarraf

    Hassan Tarraf, Remax Belize, real estate, entrepreneurship, true north, integrity, mindset, challenges, personal growth, Belize Summary In this episode, Paul Gill interviews Hassan Tarraf, a real estate agent and investor at Remax Belize. They discuss Hassan's diverse background, his journey to Belize, and his vision for the future in real estate. Hassan emphasizes the importance of integrity, transparency, and continuous learning in his work. He shares insights on overcoming challenges, maintaining a positive mindset, and the significance of setting micro-goals. The conversation concludes with Hassan's thoughts on future aspirations and the importance of adaptability in life and business. Takeaways Hassan's diverse background shapes his approach to real estate. Moving to Belize was a strategic decision for Hassan's career. Education and understanding the market are key to success. Integrity and transparency are core values for Hassan. Little by little, progress leads to significant outcomes. Surrounding oneself with the right network is crucial. Taking action is essential for entrepreneurs. Recognizing the need for personal resets can prevent burnout. Finding joy in the journey is more important than constant happiness. The future is unwritten, and adaptability is vital. "Take action." "You need to constantly reset." "The next chapter is unwritten." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hassan Tarraf and His Journey 04:58 Vision and Purpose in Real Estate 09:37 Finding True North: Integrity and Morality 14:43 Mindset Shifts for Success 19:38 Overcoming Challenges and Personal Growth 23:54 Future Aspirations and Closing Thoughts

  3. Nov 6

    Be Kind to Your Mind: Resilience, Self-Care & Life Lessons with Dr. Jenn Pauldurai

    neurology, cognitive disorders, true north, self-care, trauma, resilience, health choices, personal growth, patient care, mindset Summary In this episode, Dr. Jennifer Pauldurai, a neurologist specializing in cognitive and behavioral disorders, shares her journey into medicine, influenced by her cultural background and personal experiences. She discusses the importance of understanding aging patients, the impact of life choices on health, and the lessons learned from overcoming challenges. Dr. Pauldurai emphasizes the significance of self-care, resilience, and the ability to learn from trauma, while also advocating for positive health choices. The conversation concludes with insights on balancing long-term goals with immediate demands and the importance of continuous learning. Takeaways Dr. Pauldurai's journey into neurology was influenced by her grandmother's life experiences. Cultural background plays a significant role in shaping one's approach to medicine. Working with aging patients provides valuable life lessons. Self-care is essential for maintaining mental and physical health. Positive experiences can have a lasting impact on health. Trauma can affect individuals differently based on their experiences. The brain has the ability to unlearn trauma over time. Making intentional choices can lead to better long-term health outcomes. Balancing short-term demands with long-term goals is a continuous process. Continuous learning is vital for personal and professional growth. Navigating Neurology: Insights from Dr. Jennifer Pauldurai The Power of Cultural Influence in Medicine "I like helping people that are aging." "Be kind to your mind." "Learn and remember." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dr. Jennifer Pauldurai 01:52 Journey into Neurology and Cultural Influences 05:11 Finding True North: Life Lessons from Patients 08:23 Overcoming Challenges and Staying Aligned 13:57 The Impact of Positive Choices on Health 16:31 Understanding Trauma and Its Effects 20:19 The Complexity of Human Resilience 22:11 Balancing Long-term Vision with Short-term Demands 25:34 Future Aspirations and Continuous Learning 27:30 Lightning Round: Quick Insights

  4. Nov 4

    Stand Up on the Inside: Love, Truth & Personal Growth with Pauline Sexton

    In this episode of Finding Your True North, host Paul Gill welcomes Pauline Sexton, consultant and author of four books, including Stand Up on the Inside, to explore self-discovery, personal growth, and the guiding principles that shape our lives. Pauline shares her journey from lifelong journaling to becoming a published author, reflecting on how grief, faith, and personal experiences influenced her writing. At the heart of her latest book are five foundational pillars: love, truth, wisdom, faith, and grace. Paul and Pauline explore the difference between knowledge and wisdom, the importance of understanding who we are, and how intentional decisions help us remain aligned with our purpose. Pauline also discusses overcoming distractions, recognizing our gifts, and embracing continuous personal growth. When asked to identify her True North, she points to two principles that have guided her throughout life: love and truth. Know yourself: Understanding your identity, values, and gifts is essential to living purposefully. Five foundational pillars: Love, truth, wisdom, faith, and grace provide a framework for personal growth. Knowledge versus wisdom: True wisdom comes from understanding and applying what we learn. Faith and forgiveness: Life's challenges can become opportunities for reflection and transformation. Focus and intentionality: Aligning everyday decisions with long-term goals requires self-awareness and discipline. Continuous growth: Becoming who we are meant to be is a lifelong process. "This book is not a how-to, it's a who." "Don't get in your own way." "What if you're the mountain?" "You gotta know yourself." 00:00 — Introduction to Pauline Sexton 01:03 — Pauline's Background and Personal Journey 03:15 — From Journaling to Becoming an Author 05:24 — Writing Through Grief 06:25 — Stand Up on the Inside 09:32 — The Five Foundational Pillars 10:08 — Knowledge, Understanding & Wisdom 13:15 — Discovering Your Identity 16:56 — Finding True North Through Love & Truth 18:46 — Challenges, Forgiveness & Faith 21:47 — Mindset & Spiritual Growth 23:59 — Balancing Long-Term Vision and Daily Demands 25:45 — Self-Assessment, Focus & Personal Gifts 28:48 — What's Next for Pauline? 31:51 — Lightning Round 35:22 — Connecting with Pauline Sexton Email: standupontheinside@gmail.com Books: Stand Up on the Inside and her other published works are available on Amazon. Hosted by Paul Gill, Finding Your True North explores the person behind the accomplishment—the principles, values, experiences, and defining moments that guide entrepreneurs, business leaders, and visionary thinkers. Visit: https://www.truenorthbyspringer.com Enjoyed this conversation? Follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who would benefit. Until next time, keep pursuing your True North. Key TakeawaysMemorable QuotesEpisode ChaptersConnect with Pauline SextonAbout Finding Your True North

  5. Nov 2

    Bringing Out the Best in Others: Emotional Intelligence, Resilience & Leadership with Dianna Samuelson

    emotional intelligence, coaching, resilience, perfectionism, entrepreneurship, leadership, personal development, true north, change management, AI Summary In this episode of 'Finding Your True North', host Paul Gill speaks with Dianna Samuelson, an emotional intelligence coach and founder of Breakaway Momentum. They discuss Dianna's journey into coaching, the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership, and how to overcome perfectionism and embrace resilience. Dianna shares her insights on navigating challenges, the significance of being present, and the power of adaptability in achieving long-term goals. The conversation concludes with practical advice for entrepreneurs and leaders, emphasizing the need for emotional intelligence in managing people and fostering growth. Takeaways Dianna Samuelson is an emotional intelligence coach focused on bringing out the best in people. Emotional intelligence is crucial for addressing people problems in organizations. Perfectionism can hinder progress and lead to burnout. Resilience is key to success in entrepreneurship and personal growth. It's important to be present in whatever task you are doing. People often give up on long-term goals due to unrealistic expectations. Updates and adaptability are essential for personal and professional growth. Coaching oneself is vital for managing competing priorities. Learning from everyone, even those you don't like, is valuable. Emotional intelligence is necessary for effective leadership and change management. Unlocking Emotional Intelligence for Success The Journey of an Emotional Intelligence Coach "Don't take your kids' lessons." "I give up for now." "You can always make an update." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Emotional Intelligence Coaching 02:37 The Journey to Breakaway Momentum 05:25 Overcoming Perfectionism 08:13 The Importance of Resilience 11:02 Navigating Challenges with True North 13:41 The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership 16:15 Balancing Long-term Vision with Short-term Demands 19:10 The Power of Updates and Adaptability 21:38 Advice for Entrepreneurs and Leaders 24:19 Lightning Round and Final Thoughts

  6. Jan 1

    Legacy, Leverage, and AI: Helping Small Businesses Win Faster with Édouard Vilver, Founder & CEO of Meriaky

    In this episode of Follow Your True North, host Paul Gill sits down with Édouard Vilver, a software engineer turned founder, to explore how purpose, legacy, and automation can transform both a life and a business. Édouard shares how COVID became the unexpected catalyst that pushed him from a stable career (including years at the National Bank of Canada) into entrepreneurship—after seeing friends and community businesses struggle without an online presence. What started as pro-bono help (websites, calendars, emails, basic systems) evolved into Meriaky, a company built to help solopreneurs and small businesses save time, scale faster, and create impact through automation and AI. At the heart of Édouard’s “True North” is one word: Legacy—a principle forged at his grandmother’s funeral, where he witnessed firsthand what it looks like to leave an imprint on hundreds of lives. This conversation is a deep reminder that building something meaningful requires both heart and strategy: passion, vision, and measurable execution. 🔑 Key Topics Covered Édouard’s journey: France → Montreal → founder life How COVID revealed a gap in small business infrastructure What Meriaky does: automation that frees up time and increases capacity Why “time is the entrepreneur’s most valuable asset” The moment Édouard realized he needed to become “selfish” with his growth Building confidence: communication, leadership, and personal development Advice for entrepreneurs: Passion + Vision + Scientist mindset (data + iteration) The real meaning of balance: daily tradeoffs and intentional sacrifices Leveraging partnerships and team-building to move faster Why legacy is built through consistent choices, not luck 📣 Call to Action If this episode encouraged you:✅ Subscribe to Follow Your True North⭐ Leave a review📤 Share it with an entrepreneur who needs clarity, systems, or inspiration Until next time—keep pursuing your True North.

  7. Jan 1

    Service as Strategy: Building Purpose-Driven Businesses That Protect Main Street

    In this episode of Finding Your True North, host Paul Gill sits down with Dean Jensen, CEO of SoFlo Acquisitions, for a powerful conversation on faith, service, entrepreneurship, and redefining private equity with conscience. Dean shares his personal journey—from growing up sailing through literal storms on the open ocean to navigating the figurative storms of business, family life, and leadership. At the heart of the conversation is a bold mission: protecting Main Street workers from destructive private equity practices by acquiring HVAC companies and transitioning them into employee-owned businesses through ESOPs. This episode explores what it truly means to lead with service, why passion should follow skill (not the other way around), how to manage chaos without losing clarity, and why success is built through consistency, discipline, and long-term vision—not overnight wins. If you’re an entrepreneur, investor, or leader searching for alignment between profit, purpose, and people, this conversation will challenge and inspire you. 🔑 Key Topics Covered What “True North” means for entrepreneurs and leaders Faith, family, and service as foundational principles Why traditional private equity often fails Main Street How ESOPs empower employees and preserve legacy Passion vs. skill: redefining career and business advice Delegation, leverage, and scaling without burnout The myth of work-life balance vs. real time management Staying calm under pressure and making decisions in crisis Why success requires mastering the “boring” daily work Raising capital with both returns and social conscience 📣 Call to Action If this episode resonated with you: ✅ Subscribe to Finding Your True North ⭐ Leave a review 📤 Share this episode with someone building a business—or a life—rooted in purpose Until next time, keep pursuing your True North.

  8. Jan 1

    Becoming the Dream: Harmony, Hustle, and the Power of Purpose with Rozbeh Sororian

    In this powerful episode of Finding Your True North, host Paul Gill sits down with Rozbeh Sororian, Director of Strategic Partnerships at MW Law and a wellness advocate guiding high-achievers toward lasting balance. Rozbeh shares his journey from software sales to private equity law—and how burnout and bold self-awareness shaped his personal philosophy of harmonizing hustle with health. You’ll learn why becoming the dream matters more than chasing it, how systems create sustainable success, and why spiritual grounding and physical wellness are non-negotiable for true leadership. Whether you're building your career or rebuilding your center, this conversation will inspire you to lead from alignment, not ego. Topics Covered: Merging high-performance with mindful living Building a life (and network) of value Daily practices to stay spiritually and physically aligned Communication and storytelling as entrepreneurial superpowers Navigating burnout and rediscovering purpose Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Roozbeh Sarurian 00:57 Roozbeh's Journey and Career Path 04:23 Defining True North: Spirituality and Health 08:34 Overcoming Burnout and Finding Balance 11:22 Advice for Entrepreneurs: Spirituality and Execution 15:58 Balancing Long-Term Vision with Short-Term Demands 20:18 Future Aspirations and Merging Wellness with Success 🎧 Listen now—and reconnect with the habits and heart behind your own True North.

About

Finding Your True North” is a podcast dedicated to uncovering the guiding principles that fuel the success of entrepreneurs, business owners, and intrapreneurs. Through insightful conversations, we explore how leaders navigate challenges, align their work with their core values, and create lasting impact. Whether you're building a startup, leading innovation within a corporation, or scaling a business, this podcast will help you clarify your direction and stay true to your purpose.