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Business mentorship featuring entrepreneurs who are passionate about their buisness and participate in the ShareYourStories.online guest blog series. We are Keepin’ It Real as we share lightbulb moments and 3 words of advice. Our mission is to increase the visibility of each business, encourage collaboration and build connections in the community through storytelling. The primary purpose of this podcast is to introduce the person behind the logo - entrepreneurs and their great ideas. The views and opinions shared are those of the guests and their participation does not imply any endorsement of them, their products or services. ” We create a buzz about your biz”
Episodes
5 days ago
5 days ago
Business Mentorship;“CEO of Brave Healer Productions”
Keepin' It Real with Laura Di Franco
Season 6 Episode #234
Laura Di Franco is an Amazon bestselling author with three decades of expertise in holistic physical therapy, a third-degree black belt, with 50+ published books, she is a speaker and the publisher of Brave Healer Productions.
Let’s find out how Laura is creating space for others to write the words that will change their world.
Our guest joins us from Bethesda, Maryland.
“Laura Di Franco is the CEO of Brave Healer Productions an award-winning publisher for holistic health and wellness professionals with a mission to help the world experience what’s possible. She spent 30 years in holistic physical therapy, is a third-degree black belt, and has authored 14 books. Her company has published close to 100 Amazon bestselling books with a global community of over 3000 authors who are waking the world up to what’s possible for healing, one brave word at a time.”
A few of the tips Laura shared:
1. Your book is your legacy
2. A publisher is your business partner
3. Collaborate with your expertise
Read Laura's story and connect here...
Laura, thank you for joining us and sharing the mic.
Don’t miss an episode and subscribe to our YouTube channel Business Mentorship; Keepin It Real or if your on the move our podcast is found on iTunes, Spotify, IHeart Radio and Amazon Music.
We look forward to connecting with you next time for another edition of Keepin’ It Real.
“Funding for Entrepreneurs by Entrepreneurs”
"Together, We Are Making A Difference; One Story At A Time"
Friday Jul 04, 2025
Friday Jul 04, 2025
Business Mentorship; “Lifestyle Coach and Intuitive Healer”
Keepin' It Real with Shuang-Min Chang
Season 6 Episode #233
Shuang-Min Chang is a coach who has taken her leadership experience in corporate and combined it with 18 plus years as an expat in India, Italy & China and has created a system that encourages others to live with ease and flow.
Let’s find out how Shuang-Min has taken her life experience and created a coaching system that encourages others to live unapologetically.
Our guest joins us from Taiwan, Taiwan.
“My life journey is one of from City to The Country; from Fashion to Ocean; from get-going to flowing.
– 15 years+ in personal & spiritual awakening
– 18 years+ as an expat in India, Italy & China
– 20 years+ of retail & corporate leadership experiences
– An intuitive, an explorer of worlds, a thinker of life; a surfer, a reader, a writer of her own expression
– Recovered perfectionist, control freak, over-achiever
– Practitioner of universal love”
A few of the tips Shuang-Min shared:
1. Creativity and self-expression
2. Power of choice
3. Freedom = Empowerment
Read Shuang-Min's story and connect here...
Shuang-Min, thank you for joining us and sharing the mic.
Don’t miss an episode and subscribe to our YouTube channel Business Mentorship; Keepin It Real or if your on the move our podcast is found on iTunes, Spotify, IHeart Radio and Amazon Music.
We look forward to connecting with you next time for another edition of Keepin’ It Real.
“Funding for Entrepreneurs by Entrepreneurs”
"Together, We Are Making A Difference; One Story At A Time"
Friday Jun 27, 2025
Friday Jun 27, 2025
Business Mentorship; “Ancestral Eye Reading”
Keepin' It Real with Amy Gillespie Dougherty
Season 6 Episode #232
Amy Gillespie Dougherty is the founder of Irigenics specializing in ancestral eye reading, she is a writer, award winning author and TV Host.
Let’s find out how Amy is creating opportunities for individuals to not only learn about their family history but unlock their own human potential.
Our guest joins us from Richmond, Virginia
“Founder of Irigenics® Ancestral Eye Reading, Amy hosts “The Eyes Have It! Unlocking your Ancestral Code with Amy” on New Reality TV. She is the lead author of The Ancestors Within and Journals and created the My Eye Origin™ phone app. Amy has helped thousands understand their ancestral and epigenetic patterns, aiming to guide young adults toward a sense of life purpose and self-realization.”
A few of the tips Amy shared:
1. Your Family History
2. Serendipity
3. Connection between research, legacy and marketing
Read Amy's story and connect here...
Amy, thank you for joining us and sharing the mic.
Don’t miss an episode and subscribe to our YouTube channel Business Mentorship; Keepin It Real or if your on the move our podcast is found on iTunes, Spotify, IHeart Radio and Amazon Music.
We look forward to connecting with you next time for another edition of Keepin’ It Real.
“Funding for Entrepreneurs by Entrepreneurs”
"Together, We Are Making A Difference; One Story At A Time"
Friday Jun 20, 2025
Friday Jun 20, 2025
Business Mentorship; “MPT, Integrative Health and Nutritionist"
Keepin' It Real with Susan Brady
Season 6 Episode #231
Susan Brady, is a Doctor of Integrative Medicine, Physical Therapist, and Nutritionist, who is helping people regain movement and strength.
We find out how Susan is helping people heal from the inside out and why she created The BONES Method™
Our guest joins us from Hartfield, Virginia
“Susan Brady, Doctor of Integrative Medicine, Physical Therapist, and Nutritionist, is passionate about helping women build stronger bones naturally. Early in her career, she saw that traditional treatments often fell short, inspiring her to take a holistic approach to healing. Blending her expertise in physical therapy, integrative medicine, and nutrition, she empowers women with science-backed strategies to support bone strength and overall well-being. When she’s not helping others, Susan enjoys sailing, paddle boarding, and hiking, embracing the active lifestyle she encourages in her clients.”
A few of the tips Susan shared:
1. Movement is the key to your health
2. Create healthy routines
3. Fuel your body and feed your mind
Read Susan's story and connect here...
Susan, thank you for joining us and sharing the mic.
Don’t miss an episode and subscribe to our YouTube channel Business Mentorship; Keepin It Real or if your on the move our podcast is found on iTunes, Spotify, IHeart Radio and Amazon Music.
We look forward to connecting with you next time for another edition of Keepin’ It Real.
“Funding for Entrepreneurs by Entrepreneurs”
"Together, We Are Making A Difference; One Story At A Time"
Friday Jun 13, 2025
Friday Jun 13, 2025
Business Mentorship; “Personal Brand & Headshot Photographer”
Keepin' It Real with Jenn Grachow
Season 6 Episode #230
Jenn Grachow is a brand photographer, who shares one of the most empowering things about her business: helping camera-shy people—who have never liked a photo of themselves—see themselves in a new light.
Let’s find out how Jenn is using strategic imagery to help businesses grow.
Our guest joins us from Hamilton, Ontario:
“It’s So Much More Than Just a Photo! It’s about creating natural, approachable images that let you shine, helping you build a brand that stands out. Over the past 17 years, I’ve helped hundreds of business owners conquer their photo fears and show up confidently in front of the camera. With a B.A.A. in Photography, accreditation from the PPOC, and a passion for continuous learning in business, photography, and branding, I specialize in crafting personality-packed images that connect with your dream clients. So, how can I help you show up online with photos you’re excited to share?”
A few of the tips Jenn shared:
1. Photos require strategy in business
2. Branding is more than just pictures
3. Photos are how others “see you”
Read Jenn's story and connect here...
Jenn, thank you for joining us and sharing the mic.
Don’t miss an episode and subscribe to our YouTube channel Business Mentorship; Keepin It Real or if your on the move our podcast is found on iTunes, Spotify, IHeart Radio and Amazon Music.
We look forward to connecting with you next time for another edition of Keepin’ It Real.
“Funding for Entrepreneurs by Entrepreneurs”
"Together, We Are Making A Difference; One Story At A Time"
Friday Jun 06, 2025
Friday Jun 06, 2025
Business Mentorship; “Psychologist and Transformational Life Coach”
Keepin' It Real with Dr. Charleanea Arellano
Season 6 Episode #229
We meet a business owner who believes adversity as a springboard into greatness.
Let’s find out how Charleanea is helping others rewrite and celebrate being the author of their own story.
Our guest, with parental approval, joins us from Denver, Colorado
“I’m Dr. Charleanea Arellano, a clinical psychologist and transformational life coach based in Denver, Colorado, with over 30 years of experience. Her life work is inspired by the beautifully powerful resilience of the human spirit. Her heart has been deeply moved by stories of individuals who have not only overcome personal adversity but who have used this adversity courageously as a springboard into greatness. These stories of courage, hope, and strength have fueled her passion to help and support others reclaim their power and reach their highest potential.”
A few of the tips Dr Charleanea shared:
1. You’re already “great”
2. Be the author of your own story
3. Build your legacy
Read Dr. Charleanea's story and connect here...
Don’t miss an episode and subscribe to our YouTube channel Business Mentorship; Keepin It Real or if your on the move our podcast is found on iTunes, Spotify, IHeart Radio and Amazon Music.
Thank you for joining us…
We look forward to connecting with you next time for another edition of Keepin’ It Real.
“Funding for Entrepreneurs by Entrepreneurs”
"Together, We Are Making A Difference; One Story At A Time"
Friday May 30, 2025
Friday May 30, 2025
Business Mentorship; “International Award-Winning Child Author"
Keepin' It Real with Gabriella Dias
Season 6 Episode #228
This interview took place with the approval of Wendy Dias.
We meet a child author who at the age of 10 had already written a 9-book series. This year, Gaby was named “Girl of the Year” through Women Changing the World presented by the Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson.
Let’s find out what inspired Gaby to start writing.
Our guest, with parental approval, joins us from Sydney, Australia
“Gabriella Dias is an international award-winning child author, storyteller, and creative force behind the magical 9-book series ‘Light of Luna’. She wrote her first book at just eight years old, and by ten she had completed all nine of her fantasy novels. At 12 years Gabriella was named ‘Girl of the Year’ winner of the global 2025 Women Changing the World Awards, presented to her by the Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson.”
A few of the things Gaby shared:
1. Winning “Girl of the Year” presented by the Duchess of York
2. Spoiler alert: A new book series
3. Future: Screenplays and Musicals
Gaby’s mother, Wendy Dias joined us to discuss the business behind a child author:
1. Process taking shape
2. Finding the right partnerships
3. Watching the stories unfold
Read Gaby's story and connect here...
Special thanks to Wendy Dias for being not only a wonderful role model but creating a network of support for Gaby and joining us in our series.
Don’t miss an episode and subscribe to our YouTube channel Business Mentorship; Keepin It Real or if your on the move our podcast is found on iTunes, Spotify, IHeart Radio and Amazon Music.
Thank you for joining us…
We look forward to connecting with you next time for another edition of Keepin’ It Real.
“Funding for Entrepreneurs by Entrepreneurs”
"Together, We Are Making A Difference; One Story At A Time"
Friday May 23, 2025
Friday May 23, 2025
Business Mentorship; "Life Purpose Concierge”
Keepin' It Real with Kathy Baldwin
Season 6 Episode #227
We meet Kathy, a Life Purpose Concierge, coach, author and podcast host who’s book is called: “Unlearning the C.R.A.P. and Embracing Empowerment.”
Let’s find out out how this science geek is using an acronym to get our attention for positive change.
Our guest joins us from Kitchener, Ontario
“Kathy Baldwin, a renowned expert in Conditioned Responses and Automatic Programming (C.R.A.P.), empowers individuals to unlearn limiting patterns and embrace self-empowerment. With over 40 years of experience in quantum physics, biology, and psychology, Kathy’s journey of self-healing inspires others to align with their true potential. Her mission is to foster peace, passion, purpose, and prosperity.”
A few of the tips Kathy shared:
1. What is C.R.A.P?
2. You’re Already a Genius
3. A Way with Words
Read Kathy's story and connect here...
Don’t miss an episode and subscribe to our YouTube channel Business Mentorship; Keepin It Real or if your on the move our podcast is found on iTunes, Spotify, IHeart Radio and Amazon Music.
Thank you for joining us…
We look forward to connecting with you next time for another edition of Keepin’ It Real.
“Funding for Entrepreneurs by Entrepreneurs”
"Together, We Are Making A Difference; One Story At A Time"
Friday May 09, 2025
Friday May 09, 2025
Business Mentorship; “Growth Strategist’
Keepin' It Real with Heather Brekelmans
Season 6 Episode #226
We meet Heather Brekelmans who is the founder of 2 Steps Ahead a one stop marketing company that connects customers with clients through storytelling. She uses a tag line “Get Real” which introduces a business strategy with purpose.
Let’s find out out how Heather is bridging the gap between growth and opportunity for sustained success.
Our guest joins us from Zorra, Ontario
“Heather has both an ambitious mind and a genuine heart. Graduating from Brock University & Niagara College with a focus on leadership & horticulture gave her an excellent blend of backgrounds to launch 2 Steps Ahead Consulting. Heather enjoys bringing a fresh and genuine approach to marketing focused on clients’ success.”
A few of the tips Heather shared:
1. Be intentional with your objectives
2. Create a process that builds team confidence
3. Attitude is a key performance indicator
Read Heather's story and connect here...
Don’t miss an episode and subscribe to our YouTube channel Business Mentorship; Keepin It Real or if your on the move our podcast is found on iTunes, Spotify, IHeart Radio and Amazon Music.
Thank you for joining us…
We look forward to connecting with you next time for another edition of Keepin’ It Real.
“Funding for Entrepreneurs by Entrepreneurs”
"Together, We Are Making A Difference; One Story At A Time"
Friday May 02, 2025
Friday May 02, 2025
Special Edition
Business Mentorship; Panel Discussion,
Keepin' It Real "Awards and Recognition"
Season 6, Episode #225
Welcome to this special edition of Keepin’ It Real panel discussions featuring topics trending in business with small business owners who participate in our global community.
Our expert panel are all recent winners in the 2025 Global Women Changing The World Awards and Summit held in London England, trail blazers and change makers in their communities.
The summit was headed by Oprah Winfrey’s all-time favourite guest, Dr. Tererai Trent, who says, “These exceptional women are here to awaken hearts, give permission to recapture dreams, and inspire the women of the world to come together to forge a brighter path for all. The rising of women is the awakening of everybody.”
We discuss the topic of awards and recognition and the relevance for small business owners….
I’d like to introduce you to our panel:
Susan Crossman: Gold, Women in Literature
Brenda Andress: Silver, Women In Sport
Shelley Goldstein: Silver, Professional Services and
Honourable Mention, Thought Leader
Lynn McLaughlin: Silver, Women in Adult Eduction & Training
Elaine Uskoski: Silver, Therapy & Counselling and
myself Trish Tonaj Silver, Business of the Year
As the founder for shareyourstories.online: "We create opportunities for global business owners to be seen, heard, found and hired through three core pillars of visibility, collaboration and community. It was an honour to nominate and share the stage in recognition of these amazing women in business whose work positively contributes to their communities.”
Accepting support and recognition from others for a job well done is a great example of the humility and commitment we share as small business owners. Sharing our stories is how we support and learn from each other.
A few of the things we shared:
1) Accept the nomination!
2) Creating friendships beyond the screen
3) Be open to new possibilities
I’d like to thank our expert panel for sharing your stories and point of view. We appreciate your contributions as business owners and wish you continued success as you lead by example as both role models and mentors in our communities.
If you’d like to connect with one of our guests you’ll find their story and contact information below:
https://shareyourstories.online/sheis-sports-network-founder-president-brenda-andress/
https://shareyourstories.online/author-entrepreneur-susan-crossman/
https://shareyourstories.online/from-monologue-to-dialogue-have-conversations-that-convert/
https://shareyourstories.online/owner-lynn-mclaughlin-co/
https://shareyourstories.online/founder-guest-blog-host-trish-tonaj/
I’m Trish Tonaj, author, artist, founder and host for the series and if your interested in sharing your business story, visit our website at shareyourstories.online
“Together, We Are Making A Difference; One Story At A Time”
Don’t miss an episode and subscribe to our YouTube channel Business Mentorship; Keepin It Real or if your on the move our podcast is found on iTunes, Spotify, IHeart Radio and Amazon Music.
Thank you for joining us…
We look forward to connecting with you next time for another edition of Keepin’ It Real.
“Funding for Entrepreneurs by Entrepreneurs”