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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
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”
Friday Apr 18, 2025
Friday Apr 18, 2025
Business Mentorship; “Your Network is Your Net Worth”
Keepin It Real with Steve Ramona
Season 6 Episode #224
We meet a podcast host who is a super-connector, specializing in building partnerships through personalized introductions. “The Law of Increase” has become his personal mission as he networks with people around the world.
Let’s find out out how Steve’s podcast “Doing Business with a Servant’s Heart” has created an audience of over 40,000 people per episode and growing!
Our guest joins us from San Jose, California
“Steve Ramona, a unique super-connector, specializing in building partnerships through personalized introductions. These introductions are emails that include video explanations, adding a personal touch to each connection. Steve’s introductions have been incredibly successful, resulting in 25 million dollars in deals over the past 11 years. This track record speaks volumes about the value he brings to each connection.”
A few of the tips Steve shared:
1. Just “Ask”
2. Difference between Transactional and Transformational
3. Definition of “servitude”
ok 4. ABL
Read Steve'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”
Friday Apr 11, 2025
Friday Apr 11, 2025
Business Mentorship; “The Why that Lead to Entrepreneurship”
Keepin It Real with Heather Fontez
Season 6 Episode #223
We meet a business owner who has many years experience in the hospitality industry with a Masters in Mental Health Psychology.
Let’s find out out "why" Heather has taken her corporate experience and started a business with her husband in entertainment services.
Our guest joins us from Hamilton , Ontario
“Heather is an accomplished hospitality professional with global experience, including leading world-renowned restaurants like Planta Queen and Kelly’s Landing. With senior roles at a prestigious banquet center and as VP of a non-profit solutions company, she excels in event planning, project management, and client relations. Heather’s passion for creating meaningful experiences is backed by a Master’s in Mental Health Psychology. Outside work, she enjoys yoga, running, and exploring Ontario’s outdoors.”
A few of the tips Heather shared:
1. Participate in community based business groups
2. Create a trusted referral partner list
3. Be mindful of the journey
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”
Friday Apr 04, 2025
Friday Apr 04, 2025
Business Mentorship; ”Creating SheIs Sports Network”
Keepin It Real with Brenda Andress
Season 6 Episode #222
We meet a business owner who is an author, former Commissioner of the Canadian Women’s Hockey League, one of Canadas 100 Most Powerful Women and the founder of SheIS a Sports Network with an app that connects female athletes with fans fostering engagement, community and celebration.
Let’s find out out how Brenda has built bridges throughout sport to elevate the profile of female athletes while building a network that engages sports enthusiasts.
Our guest joins us from Toronto, Ontario
“Brenda Andress is a trailblazer in women’s sports, known for her strategic leadership as the founder and President of SheIS and SheIS Sports Network. As the former Commissioner of the CWHL, she shaped it into the premier women’s hockey league. Recognized with the YWCA Women of Distinction award and named one of Canada’s 100 Most Powerful Women, Brenda is an accomplished author and a dedicated mother and grandmother, continually elevating the visibility and impact of women in athletics.”
A few of the tips Brenda shared:
1. Watershed moments create opportunities
2. You have a right to be at the table
3. Don’t give up
Read Brenda'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”
Friday Mar 21, 2025
Friday Mar 21, 2025
Business Mentorship; “From Monologue to Dialogue: Have Conversations That Convert - Now Launching A Book”
Keepin It Real with Shelley Goldstein
Season 6 Episode #221
We meet a business owner who is a trainer, speaker, speaking coach and now author! Shelley has helped hundreds of people in over 40 countries across a variety of industries develop the skills necessary to be empowering, remarkable speakers and lead with impact.
Let's find out why Shelley decided “now was the time” to launch her book and what she’s doing differently as part of the launch.
Our guest will join us from Los Angelas, California
“Shelley trains global audiences how to powerfully command executive presence and master the art of effective speaking. With over 30 years of senior level management and entrepreneurship, she understands the demands of the evolving workplace—with its emphasis on communication skills and leadership influence—and has helped hundreds of people in over 40 countries across a variety of industries develop the skills necessary to be empowering, remarkable speakers and lead with impact.”
A few of the tips Shelley shared:
1. Speaking as a conversation
2. Include audio/video with print
3. Share your “x” factor, find your voice
Read Shelley'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”
Friday Mar 14, 2025
Friday Mar 14, 2025
Business Mentorship; "Author, Founder, Podcaster"
Keepin It Real with Tammy Cohen
Season 6 Episode #220
We find out how this award-winning author is providing the tools for families to use mobile devices, not as distractions but bridges to more profound, heartfelt relationships.
Our guest joins us from New York, New York:
"Tammy J. Cohen is a connector, author, and founder of Women Beyond the Table, a network empowering women to thrive professionally and personally. Through TC Brand Consulting, She helps businesses align their mission and brand. Tammy authored the award-winning Text Messages to My Sons, inspiring parents to connect deeply with their kids. Tammy is a podcast host and media contributor who resides in Manhattan with her husband and three sons. She received her BA from SUNY Albany and her Master of Business Administration from Zicklin School of Business/Baruch College."
A few of the tips Tammy shared:
1. Love and gratitude is the highest frequency
2. Positive messages create positive results
3. Find your community
Read Tammy'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”
Friday Mar 07, 2025
Friday Mar 07, 2025
Business Mentorship; “Gallery Owner, Artist and Entrepreneur”
Keepin' It Real with Taren White
Season 6 Episode #219
We meet a business owner who is a fourth generation entrepreneur, third generation artist as well as gallery owner and digital marketing expert.
Creativity, passion and innovation is how one would describe this small business owner.
Let's find out how Taren has created an on-line platform that introduces collectors to artists and combines education and business acumen.
Our guest joins us from Paris, Ontario
“Taren is a third-generation artist and fourth-generation entrepreneur, passionately sharing my creativity with the world. With over 20 years in marketing and digital design, I find myself incredibly blessed to have a gallery on the banks of the Grand River in Paris, Ontario. This serene space serves as both a showcase for my artwork and my office for freelance work. Whether it’s through my painting or through digital branding and website design, I am dedicated to bringing artistry to life. “
A few of the tips Taren shared:
1. Awareness creates opportunities
2. Buying art is both a visual and emotional process
3. New words of advice for changing times
Read Taren'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”
Friday Feb 14, 2025
Friday Feb 14, 2025
Business Mentorship; “Holistic Health Practitioner"
Keepin' It Real with Marian Egan
Season 6 Episode #218
We meet a business owner who is an international speaker, author, artist and a Global Award Winner as an Energy Frequency Expert with over 30 years experience empowering change through both in-person and
on-line courses.
Let's find out how Marian responded to the market and created on-line courses, uses an app and has sold over 500 books.
Our guest joins us from Kildare, Ireland
“As a healthcare practitioner, I specialize in helping professional practitioners, coaches, and entrepreneurs, who are facing their own health crises, take control of their health, increase their income, and increase their client base. My passion is teaching self-healing techniques and holistic well-being practices using effective solutions. My mission is to Empower People to Heal Themselves. The body has an innate intelligence to heal itself. I help facilitate that healing process using my Healing Card Decks and teach others to do the same.”
A few of the tips Marian shared:
1. Don’t quit, just keep going
2. Trust is a must
3. Innovation is a necessity
Read Marian'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”
Friday Feb 07, 2025
Friday Feb 07, 2025
Business Mentorship; Keepin' It Real “Turning Your Passion for Dogs into a Nationwide Training Success” with Ryan Wimpey
Season 6 Episode #217
We’ll meet a business owner who is the founder of Tip Top K9, and taken his passion for dogs and turned it into a dog training franchise.
Let's find out how Ryan has built his business by franchising into 19 locations and 11 states, and you’ve gotta love these stats: 91 trainers, over 32 thousand dogs trained and over 14 thousand Google reviews…
I'm sure you’ll agree - very impressive
Our guest joins us from Tulsa, Oklahoma
“I’m Ryan Wimpey, founder of Tip Top K9, a dog training franchise with 19 locations across 11 states. My passion for dogs started in high school and grew after years of working with my first dog, Curley. I developed the Tip Top Method, based on classical conditioning, to help dogs and their owners overcome behavioural challenges. With a focus on consistency, patience, and passion, I’ve turned my love for dogs into a thriving nationwide business.”
A few of the tips Ryan shared:
1. Create a linear workflow to replicate your great idea
2. Be consistent
3. Build your brand with referrals
Read Ryan'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”