Check the Pulse Podcast

In this episode, Kristina sits down with Mike Fresh—the founder of the wildly successful juice bar chain Fresh House—for his first-ever on-camera interview sharing the story behind the name and the brand. Known for his presence in the health and wellness space, this is the side of Mike that most people haven’t seen. What you do know is the success of his four thriving locations—what you don’t know is what it took to get there.Mike opens up about growing up in a troubled environment, the personal battles he faced, and the moment he decided to take full control of his life. This conversation goes beyond entrepreneurship—we dive into spirituality, healing, and the inner work required to truly transform. Mike shares his journey with ayahuasca and the profound role it’s played in unpacking past traumas and realigning with purpose.This is more than a business story—it’s a story of resilience, self-discovery, and rebuilding from the inside out. Whether you know Mike, love Fresh House, or you’re looking for a deeper sense of direction in your own life, this episode is filled with real talk, vulnerable moments, and life-changing insight from a man who chose to rewrite his narrative.Don’t miss the most raw and powerful conversation yet with the man behind one of the city’s most loved wellness brands.

In this episode, Kristina sits down with serial entrepreneur Mark Prata for one of the most raw, vulnerable, and powerful conversations yet. From once being a professional BMX and mountain biker to building a globally recognized tattoo studio in Toronto, Mark’s story is filled with success—but also with struggle. After selling his business, living a luxury lifestyle, and seemingly having it all, Mark faced one of the darkest periods of his life that ultimately led to a suicide attempt.This episode dives deep into the often-unspoken pressures of being a man, a father, and a provider—and what happens when the weight of it all becomes too much. Mark opens up about how hitting rock bottom forced him to begin a journey of real self-development, healing, and intentional living. Now in real estate with his wife, he shares how he rebuilt not just his career, but his life.We talk about burnout, mindset, fatherhood, and how to truly care for your mental and emotional health while still chasing your goals. Mark offers powerful insight, tools, and book recommendations to help others avoid the path he went down—and instead build a life rooted in purpose, peace, and presence.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a parent, or just someone trying to keep it all together, this conversation is a must-listen.

In this episode, Kristina sits down with Tyler McLay, Team Lead of the Tyler McLay Realty Group and founder of Rex Coaching, for a powerful conversation that goes far beyond real estate. While Tyler shares practical tips for realtors—like how to communicate effectively with clients, ask better questions, and lead with service over commission—this episode delivers insights that translate into any industry.Tyler opens up about his mission to put respect back into real estate, challenging the current perception of realtors and encouraging professionals to assert themselves through knowledge and authenticity rather than social media trends. He dives into what it really means to be a leader, how to communicate with intention, and why purpose-driven business always wins in the long run.This episode is packed with value for anyone building a business, leading a team, or working to improve how they show up in the world. Tyler’s delivery is clear, impactful, and rooted in real experience—making this a must-listen for those ready to elevate their mindset and their mission.

Socials:  ⁨@REXCoaching⁩   ⁨@tylermclayrealtygroup6700⁩ 

In this episode, Kristina sits down with breathwork facilitator Vincenzo Caputo, someone she considers not only a friend but one of the most genuinely good souls she’s ever met. This conversation dives deep into Vincenzo’s personal journey—from heartbreak and hitting rock bottom to discovering the life-changing power of breathwork and radical self-love

We explore how self-love isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation for everything. Vincenzo opens up about the moments that forced him to look inward and how, by finally prioritizing himself, he was able to change the way he sees the world, and in turn, how the world responded to him. He shares how breathwork became the tool that helped him heal, gain clarity, and connect back to his true self—and how conscious breathing can genuinely shift your entire life.

This episode isn’t just about healing; it’s about having the courage to bet on yourself, to take the leap toward something you love, and to do it not for money or recognition—but because it changes lives. If you’ve ever struggled with putting yourself first, questioned your worth, or needed a reminder of your inner power, this episode will speak directly to your heart.

Socials:

@liveyourjourney5d

In this episode, Kristina sits down with Ernesto Gaita—co-host of the Money Buys Happiness podcast and one of the most influential names in Toronto’s nightlife and media scenes—for what is easily one of the most insightful and raw conversations to date. Known for interviewing global powerhouses like Patrick Bet-David, David Grutman, and Donovan Bailey, Ernesto steps out from behind the mic to share his own story—one few have heard in full.

He opens up about what it truly took to become the biggest name in nightlife, why he walked away from it all, and how he’s now building a podcast and marketing empire while launching a media company that’s going head-to-head with giants like Barstool. But this episode goes far beyond business. Ernesto breaks down what it means to be a real leader—one who cares deeply about his team, leads with intention, and isn’t afraid to be the “bad guy” when necessary.

We talk about loyalty, sacrifice, and the mindset behind building something that lasts. He shares the hard lessons learned through travel, growth, and failure, and drops gems that every entrepreneur, creative, and leader needs to hear. If you think you know Ernesto, think again. This episode will show you a side of him that’s rarely seen—and once you hear it, you’ll understand exactly why he’s one of the most respected voices in the game.

In this episode, Kristina sits down with Karan to explore the journey that led him to where he is today in the real estate world. From navigating the uncertainty of an economic downturn to walking away from the traditional path, Karan shares the sacrifices he made and the risks he took to build a life that aligns with his values.

The conversation touches on the importance of staying authentic in a competitive industry and how sometimes taking two steps back is actually the step forward you need. Karan opens up about what makes him stand out in the real estate market, his unique outlook on life and business, and the mindset that has guided him through it all.

Whether you're in real estate, a corporate career, or simply at a crossroads in your life, this episode is a reminder that success doesn’t have one path. It’s about taking control, embracing discomfort, and creating a life that’s truly your own. Karan also shares valuable advice for new realtors entering the space and offers honest insight into what it really takes to thrive in today’s market.

In one of the most powerful episodes of Check the Pulse to date, Kristina sits down with author and speaker Sam Demma for a raw, emotional, and thought-provoking conversation that will shift the way you see yourself and others.

Together, they dive deep into judgment, bullying, empathy, and the weight we carry as humans—and how we can begin to release it. From the impact of our words, to the importance of living with positive intent and being of service, this conversation is a reminder that we are all connected—and that healing starts with awareness.

Sam shares personal stories, eye-opening insights, and practical wisdom that will inspire you to reflect on your actions, empty your backpack, and lead with more compassion in everyday life.

If you're looking for a conversation that will move your soul, open your heart, and make you think twice about how you show up in the world, this is the episode you must watch.

Sam IG:

@sam_demma

In this soul-filled episode, Kristina sits down with the radiant Rita Stranges, founder of the community brand Sondr, to explore what it truly means to create from the heart. Together, they dive into the power of authenticity, the magic of good energy, and the responsibility that comes with building a brand rooted in purpose.

This conversation flows through everything from friendships and nostalgia to brain science and the beauty of moving through life with love. Rita opens up about her journey, the intentionality behind her community, and how the energy you lead with becomes the energy your brand carries. If you’ve ever felt the pull to do something deeper, to take a risk, or to simply return to your inner self—this episode will feel like a warm hug and a powerful reminder all at once.

Tap in for a calm yet inspiring conversation that reminds us of the importance of alignment, self-awareness, and showing up for others by first showing up for yourself.

IG Handles:

@ritastranges

@realizesondr

In this episode, Kristina sits down with Matthew Campoli to dive deep into the world of spirituality, energy, and manifestation. Matt shares his insights on how success leaves clues and how alignment will always find its way into your life if you're open to it. We explore the power of manifestation and the importance of staying connected to your higher self in pursuit of your goals.

A major highlight of the conversation is when Matt opens up about the backstory of Toronto’s newest event, the Coffee Party. He takes us behind the scenes to explain the founder’s purpose behind creating this amazing event, designed to bring the city together. We discuss the vision, the impact, and what makes the Coffee Party such a unique experience.

If you're interested in learning how to manifest your dreams, align your life with your purpose, or get an inside look into one of Toronto's most exciting events, this episode is packed with inspiration and insights.

In this episode, Kristina sits down with Ricky to explore the world of content creation, influencer marketing, and the power of being authentic and true to yourself. We dive into how Ricky grew his social media following to over 800,000 combined followers, shooting your shot in life, and living on your terms. Ricky shares how being in tune with your emotions can be even more challenging than achieving physical goals, especially as a man.

We also cover the importance of consistency on social media, how to handle hate online, and discuss the effects of the climate in Canada on your overall health and longevity, with a focus on the benefits of living near the ocean or in sunnier climates. Additionally, we touch on Ricky’s newly released book, with Kristina even sharing an inspiring quote from it during the episode.

This conversation is packed with wisdom on personal growth, social media strategy, and the mental health side of content creation. If you’re looking to grow your online presence, stay authentic, or navigate the emotional challenges of being an influencer, this episode is full of valuable takeaways!

Handle:

@yourpalrick