Justin Hillier has built his career around relationships, leadership, and helping people make confident decisions. From starting in sales at just 17 years old to leading award-winning teams in banking and insurance, his journey has been shaped by a commitment to serving others and creating meaningful connections.

In this episode, Justin shares lessons learned from more than two decades of leadership experience across multiple industries, including banking, insurance, and mortgage lending. We discuss the importance of trust, communication, and putting people first, as well as how his experiences have helped him develop a holistic approach to helping clients navigate major financial decisions.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Justin reflects on the role family, community, coaching, and mentorship have played in shaping his perspective. As a husband, father of four, youth sports coach, and outdoor enthusiast, he brings a grounded and people-focused approach to both life and business.

Whether you're interested in leadership, sales, financial services, or building stronger relationships, this conversation offers practical insights on creating long-term success by focusing on what matters most: people.

You can learn more about Justin here!

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In this episode, we sit down with Polina Baum-Talmor, founder of Poli’s Creations, to explore the intersection of creativity, connection, and opportunity.

Polina shares how a passion for hand-drawn artwork evolved into a thriving creative business, where her original designs are transformed into wearable art, custom pieces, and unique creations for clients and events. Throughout our conversation, she reflects on the relationships and chance encounters that helped shape her entrepreneurial journey, and how meaningful connections continue to open unexpected doors.

We also dive into her professional career as a social scientist, researcher, and independent consultant. With more than 15 years of experience across a wide range of sectors, Polina brings a unique perspective on understanding people, culture, and lived experience. Together, we discuss the common threads between research and creativity, the value of curiosity, and why some of the most impactful opportunities begin with a simple conversation.

Whether you're an artist, entrepreneur, researcher, or someone looking to build stronger connections, this episode offers thoughtful insights on creativity, community, and the power of saying yes to new possibilities.

You can find out more about Polina and Poli’s Creations here!

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In this episode, we sit down with Jeremy Brake, an event and portrait photographer with more than a decade of experience helping businesses tell their stories through authentic, people-focused imagery. Jeremy has worked with business owners, artists, musicians, fashion events, and workshops, building a reputation for creating photographs that capture not just what organizations do, but who they are.

Our conversation explores Jeremy’s creative process, from preparing for a shoot to finding the moments that reveal genuine personality and connection. We also discuss the growing importance of professional photography in today’s business landscape, why authentic visuals build trust, and how strong imagery can help organizations communicate their value more effectively.

Whether you're a business owner looking to strengthen your brand, a creative professional interested in the art of storytelling, or simply curious about what goes into creating impactful photographs, this episode offers valuable insights into the power of visual communication and the people behind the lens.

You can learn more about Jeremy here!

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Nicole Edgson and Kirstene Reyes are redefining what it means to build a life and business with intention.

As the owners of Intentionally Tiny Custom Homes, Nicole and Kirstene combine skilled trades expertise, entrepreneurship, and a passion for community to create thoughtfully designed tiny homes that challenge traditional ideas of housing and living. In this conversation, we explore their journey into the trades, the realities of building and living tiny, and how their experiences in construction have shaped both their business and their outlook on life.

Nicole shares her path from leadership, finance, and sales into plumbing and carpentry, while Kirstene discusses her work as a Red Seal Carpenter instructor and advocate for expanding opportunities for women and youth in the trades. Together, they open up about entrepreneurship, mentorship, sustainability, and the importance of building spaces and communities with purpose.

From net-zero homes and zoning challenges to motorcycles, rescue volunteering, and the freedom that comes with intentional living, this episode is an inspiring look at craftsmanship, resilience, and creating a lifestyle that aligns with your values.

You can find out more about Intentionally Tiny Custom Homes here!

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Viktoria Yadvizhyna, Co-Founder and CEO of Hatka Homes, joins the podcast to discuss one of Nova Scotia’s most urgent challenges: housing. Drawing on more than 15 years of experience across Europe and North America in construction, design, and community-focused project delivery, Viktoria is helping reshape how attainable housing is built in Nova Scotia.

After immigrating to Canada and rebuilding her career from the ground up, Viktoria co-founded Hatka Homes alongside her family construction company, HATA Build Pro, with a mission to create practical, efficient, and high-quality homes that reflect the real needs of working families. From backyard homes and ADUs to compact primary residences and multigenerational living solutions, Hatka Homes is focused on building spaces that are faster to construct, easier to maintain, and designed around how people actually live.

In this conversation, Viktoria shares the deeply personal story behind Hatka Homes, why the housing crisis requires innovative and community-centred thinking, and how modular construction can help create more attainable pathways to homeownership. She also speaks about the importance of thoughtful design, immigrant entrepreneurship, women in construction leadership, and building homes that provide more than shelter — they provide stability, safety, and a sense of belonging.

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Marie-Aurore Frey is a Halifax-based finance professional, real estate investor, author, and community leader passionate about helping people build long-term wealth through real estate investing. Alongside her husband, she has built a growing rental portfolio while balancing full-time careers and raising three young children, giving her a practical and honest perspective on what it really takes to get started in real estate.

In this episode, Marie-Aurore shares the lessons learned from her own investing journey, the realities behind building wealth through rental properties, and the inspiration behind her recently published book focused on helping first-time investors take action with confidence. She also discusses the importance of financial literacy, overcoming fear around investing, and creating opportunities for more women to enter the world of real estate and finance.

Marie-Aurore is the lead for the Women’s Investors Network Canada – Halifax Chapter, and serves on the Steering Committee for the Women’s Infrastructure Network – Halifax Chapter, where she is committed to building strong communities through education, connection, and mentorship.

Whether you are curious about real estate investing, looking to improve your financial future, or seeking inspiration from someone building a business and family life at the same time, this conversation offers practical insight and encouragement for every stage of the journey.

You can learn more about Marie here!

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In this episode, we’re joined by Jenny Tyler, Fundraising Coordinator with Special Olympics Nova Scotia Sackville Bedford, whose work is rooted in care, inclusion, and community.

With more than 30 years of experience in early childhood education, disability supports, and advocacy, Jenny began her career in the UK as a qualified nursery nurse before leading a large daycare. After moving to Nova Scotia in 2006, she became a key part of the local support network, contributing to daycares, early intervention programs, and Autism Nova Scotia.

For the past 17 years, Jenny has been deeply involved with Special Olympics, starting as a coach and growing into a leader and fundraiser. Her work is personal, driven by her commitment to ensuring individuals like her son are not only included but truly celebrated.

Known for her creative problem solving and resilience, Jenny continued to give back even after a life changing accident in 2019. Her impact has been recognized through honors such as International Woman of the Year for Sackville, a Halifax Hero certificate, and recognition from the Nova Scotia House of Assembly.

In this conversation, Jenny shares her perspective on community, inclusion, and the power of showing up for others. It is a meaningful discussion about purpose, perseverance, and creating spaces where everyone can thrive.

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What happens when you turn passion into purpose and creativity into community?

In this episode, we sit down with Nikhila Shaju, a Halifax-based baker and entrepreneur who transformed her career from the airline industry into a thriving business rooted in creativity, culture, and connection. As the founder of Cakes for You in Timberlea, Nikhila has spent the past five years building a brand known for its stunning, Indian-inspired fusion cakes and personalized desserts that elevate every celebration.

Nikhila shares her journey of taking a leap into entrepreneurship, the challenges and rewards of running a home-based business, and how she blends cultural inspiration with modern design to create unforgettable experiences for her clients. Beyond baking, she’s deeply committed to supporting fellow small business owners and fostering a sense of community through her work.

We also explore what it takes to build a loyal customer base, the importance of quality and service, and how passion can be the foundation for long-term success.

If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a creative at heart, or someone who believes in the power of turning what you love into something meaningful, this conversation is for you.

You can find out more about Nikhila here!

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Sarah Williams brings a rare blend of strategic communications expertise and hands-on hospitality experience to the world of premium spirits. As Territory Sales Manager for Atlantic Canada at Sovereign Wine & Spirits, she leads the growth of a diverse portfolio of more than 25 brands, navigating a rapidly evolving market shaped by changing consumer preferences and the rise of non-alcoholic options.

Originally from Fredericton, Sarah’s career path has been anything but linear. After earning her Bachelor of Public Relations from Mount Saint Vincent University, she built a strong foundation in provincial government communications, managing complex public issues and high-pressure media environments. But her long-standing connection to hospitality, from brand ambassador roles to bartending, ultimately drew her back to an industry where she thrives.

In this episode, Sarah shares how she bridges the gap between storytelling and sales, why authenticity is her most powerful tool, and how she identifies opportunities others often overlook. We also explore the future of the beverage industry, the growing demand for mindful drinking options, and what it takes to build meaningful relationships in a people-first business.

Whether you’re in sales, communications, or simply curious about the stories behind the brands you enjoy, Sarah offers a fresh perspective on carving out a career that aligns with both passion and purpose.

You can find out more about Sarah here!

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In this episode, we’re joined by Matthew Cicanese: Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, National Geographic Explorer, and a leading voice in neurodiversity inclusion and accessible technology. Matthew brings a rare blend of global fieldwork, corporate training experience, and lived insight as a Deafblind and neurodivergent professional to help organizations rethink how they communicate, design, and innovate.

Having trained over 3,000 employees across 16 industries, Matthew shares practical, evidence-based strategies for building more inclusive teams, creating accessible systems, and adopting AI in an ethical, human-centered way. We dive into how accessibility drives better outcomes for everyone, why clear communication is a competitive advantage, and how organizations can turn intention into action.

Beyond the boardroom, Matthew is also an award-winning wildlife photographer whose stunning macro and wildlife imagery has been featured internationally. He reflects on how storytelling, exploration, and perspective shape both his art and his work with teams.

This conversation is packed with memorable stories and actionable takeaways; whether you're a leader, creator, or simply curious about building a more inclusive and innovative future.

You can find out more about Matt here!

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