How to make it in Toronto

Karl Shams
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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 💡 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.

  1. AUG 17

    Building Teams That Thrive: Leandro Cartelli on Talent Acquisition & Culture Fit

    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

    57 min

  2. AUG 1

    TEDx Speaker Robin Nathaniel on Social Media Strategy, AI & Content Success

    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

    52 min

  3. JUL 13

    How to Build Wealth and Live Fully Now — With Al Zdenek of Cake Club

    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 ▶️ YouTube Tune in now on all major platforms!

    47 min

  4. JUN 22

    Simplifying AI for Business Growth with John Long, CEO of Thynk AI

    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.

    31 min

  5. MAY 11

    From Hollywood to Tech: Steven Puri on Overcoming Failure & Building The Sukha Company

    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 started How he overcomes failure and keeps going The resources and mindsets that help him thrive We 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 stones What all successful people understand about failure The habits and tools that high performers use to manage time and energy How to lead teams with empathy and clarity The essential entrepreneurial skills: knowing your customer, solving real problems, and listening deeply Steven 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 Puri Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.

    53 min

  6. APR 25

    How Jensen Huang Built NVIDIA: Vision, Resilience & the $2 Trillion AI Empire

    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 faced The rise of NVIDIA and how it transformed the GPU industry Why NVIDIA is at the center of the global AI revolution The mindset, leadership style, and strategic pivots that built a $2 trillion empire Key lessons and resources that every entrepreneur can learn from If 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

    7 min

  7. MAR 30

    Success Starts with Relationships: Networking, Mentorship & Storytelling with Marc Reede

    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 influence Don’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 🙏

    48 min

  8. MAR 24

    How to Make College Affordable: Expert Financial Aid Tips with Howard Freedman

    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 goals Howard’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!

    1h 1m
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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 💡 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.

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