Teeter Talks with Marissa Teeter

On this episode of Teeter Talks, I am truly honored to have a conversation with the exceptional Hanen Nanaa. A remarkable young social entrepreneur and war survivor from Syria, Hanen found refuge in Toronto in 2016. As the founder of the Books Art Music (BAM) Collective, she has created a vibrant community hub that empowers youth and marginalized groups through art and innovation. Currently studying Public Policy at York University, Hanen also serves as the Director of Strategy at the Syrian Canadian Foundation. Her advocacy focuses on gender equality and youth empowerment, and she has advised government officials on these critical issues. Additionally, she is a founding member of the Waard Ward Collective, a social enterprise that trains newcomers in floral design and community gardening.

Hanen's dedication to social justice exemplifies true leadership, earning her numerous accolades, including the Pam McConnell Award for Young Women in Leadership in 2023 and the Alterna Prize for Women’s Social Leaders in 2022. Recognized as a UN Women Woman of the Year in 2019, her inspiring journey continues to touch lives and foster change. Join us today as we dive into these topics: 

• Hanen’s experience growing up in Syria and the challenges of fleeing her country, emphasizing the importance of learning from one another’s stories.
• The story behind starting Book Art Music (BAM) and the Waard Ward, driven by Hanen’s lived experiences and a desire to empower others.
• Highlighting how community and volunteer work can inform policy, illustrating the value of grassroots involvement.
• Addressing misconceptions about refugees and women, viewing criticism as an opportunity for growth and understanding.
• Hanen’s path into politics, from her studies to her professional endeavors, and goal of bridging the gap between government and ethnic communities.
• Identifying a great leader as the ability to collaborate, uplift others, and lead by example, fostering a supportive community.

I can’t express enough how truly inspiring and incredible Hanen is. I hope you felt as moved and motivated by Hanen’s story as I did. If you enjoyed this episode, I’d be so grateful if you could take a moment to leave a rating and review. And don’t forget to check the links below to connect with Hanen—there’s so much more to explore! Thank you for being part of our community!

Hanen’s Links:
Instagram: Hanen Nanaa
LinkedIn: Hanen Nanaa
BAM Collective Instagram: Books Art Music Collective
BAM Collective LinkedIn: BAM Collective 
Waard Ward Collective: Waard Ward

Marissa's Links:
• Marissa's Website
• Marissa's Instagram
• Teeter Talks Instagram
• Marissa's LinkedIn

On this episode of Teeter Talks, I have the pleasure of chatting with Jim Estill, a visionary technology entrepreneur and philanthropist whose journey is a testament to innovation and giving back. Jim began his entrepreneurial career in the most unassuming way, selling computer hardware from the trunk of his car. What started as a quest to design circuit boards turned into a booming business that achieved over $2 billion in sales. With a System Design Engineering background, Jim has mentored over 150 tech startups, including BlackBerry, where he served on the board for 13 years. After a brief retirement, he took the reins of Danby Appliances, buying the company and leading it as CEO. Beyond his business achievements, Jim is deeply committed to philanthropy, having sponsored over 1,000 refugees and founded a furniture bank to assist those in need. His experience offers invaluable insights into entrepreneurship, leadership, and creating a positive impact, making him a true innovator and community leader. Join us today as we dive into these topics: 

• Jim’s commitment to supporting refugees through a business lens, showcasing the power of social responsibility and authenticity in making a difference.
• Examining how traits like drive, politeness, and timeliness have become competitive advantages.
• Jim’s inspiring journey from starting a business out of his trunk to achieving $2 billion in sales, exploring the roles of studying predecessors, luck, and timing influenced his success.
• The concept of great leaders as servant leaders, and how seeing more money as a tool to do more good shapes their impact.

What a truly enriching conversation with Jim Estill! I hope you gained as much insight from his journey and wisdom as I did. Don't forget to check out the links below to connect with Jim and support the podcast by leaving a rating and review if you enjoyed the episode!

Jim’s Links:
Website: Danby
Circle Homes: Circle Home Furniture Bank

Marissa's Links:
• Marissa's Website
• Marissa's Instagram
• Teeter Talks Instagram
• Marissa's LinkedIn

On this episode of Teeter Talks, I’m excited to chat with the phenomenal Vince Del Monte! Vince is a leading online fitness business coach and visionary behind The 7 Figure Mastermind and 6 Figure Coach 2.0. Renowned for his innovative strategies and exceptional leadership, Vince excels at transforming fitness coaches into top earners, helping entrepreneurs surpass their limits and achieve impressive growth. However, what truly captivated me about Vince is the genuine, unfiltered honesty of his journey. Join us today as we dive into these topics: 

• Exploring the role of connection in leadership and how navigating conflict can strengthen both personal and professional relationships.
• Vince's personal journey through his separation, revealing crucial insights about self-connection and personal growth.
• Rethinking success from multiple perspectives, understanding how a singular view can impact leadership and relationships.
• The importance of stabilizing and aligning your goals with your true desires before moving forward.

What an honest and real conversation with Vince Del Monte! I hope you found this episode as valuable as I did. Be sure to connect with Vince using the links below! Your support of this podcast means a lot, so be sure to leave a rating and review if you enjoy it!

Vince’s Links:
Website: vincedelmonte
Instagram: @vincedelmonte
Facebook: Group by Vince DelMonte
Charity Water: Charity Water

Marissa's Links:
• Marissa's Website
• Marissa's Instagram
• Teeter Talks Instagram
• Marissa's LinkedIn

On this episode of Teeter Talks, I am joined by the lovely Sydney Vaughan! Sydney is a Wellness Coach, Breathwork and Cold Exposure Facilitator, Registered Massage Therapist (RMT), Personal Trainer, and Mentor—basically, if it's wellness-related, Sydney's got it covered! With a passion for helping people connect with their true selves, Sydney blends her expertise across various disciplines to inspire lasting change. Her holistic mind-body approach to wellness is more than just a career; it's a lifestyle. Then when it comes to leadership, Sydney's approach is all about empowering others to find their own path to growth and resilience. Join us today as we dive into these topics:

• Exploring the human tendency to categorize others and the impact of first impressions with people who are different from us.
• Emphasizing the value of asking difficult questions to stay informed, and understanding that many of our biggest challenges arise from a lack of knowledge—conversations can be a powerful tool for gaining insight.
• Sydney’s journey of coming out as a lesbian, navigating family dynamics, discovering her sexuality at an early age, feeling out of place, and ultimately embracing her identity and living her truth.
• Viewing leadership as the ability to lead authentically by standing in your truth, fostering growth within a supportive community, and inspiring others through example.

It’s been such a joy having Sydney as my personal trainer and friend! Her vibrant energy is truly inspiring. If you enjoyed our conversation, be sure to show Sydney and this podcast some love by leaving a rating or review! Your support is greatly appreciated and truly valued.

Sydney’s Links:
Instagram: Syd Vaughan
Website: Sydney Vaughan

Marissa's Links:
• Marissa's Website
• Marissa's Instagram
• Teeter Talks Instagram
• Marissa's LinkedIn

On this episode of Teeter Talks, I am beyond excited to sit down and chat with my dear friend Ben Pakulski. Ben is an impressive guy, and you may know him as a former IFBB professional bodybuilder, who reached the pinnacle of his sport as one of the top 10 in the world. After years of pushing the limits of physical potential, Ben has shifted his focus to helping others do the same in their own lives both physically and mentally.  As the CEO of Muscle Intelligence and a devoted father, he’s dedicated to guiding executives, entrepreneurs, and athletes toward better health, vitality, and performance. Ben is passionate about fostering leadership, helping people align their body, mind, and soul to not only achieve personal success, but also to inspire and lead others on their journey to a fulfilling and balanced life. He also hosts his own podcast, Muscle Intelligence, where he hosts experts and fosters highly informative conversation around all things longevity, leadership and legacy.  Join us today as we dive into these leadership topics:

• How Ben transformed from a lonely and overweight kid into a confident bodybuilder, finding balance between personal ambition, doing what it takes to succeed and the pursuit of deep, meaningful relationships.
• Comparing the worlds of bodybuilding and business, discussing the sacrifices each demands and how perspectives shift as we grow.
• The rarity and value of honesty, stressing the importance of holding ourselves and others to high standards and being willing to call out shortcomings.
• Seeing a leader as someone who connects with people in meaningful ways and adapts their approach to show up effectively for different individuals.
• Exploring success as living in alignment with your values and how we should have values in business and in life. 

It was so much fun catching up with my friend Ben! If you enjoyed and found this conversation insightful, be sure to show Ben and this podcast your love and support. Your feedback is so valuable, so please leave a rating or review wherever you’re tuning in from!

Ben's Links:
Youtube: Ben Pakulski - Muscle Intelligence
Instagram: Ben Pakulski
LinkedIn: Ben Pakulski
Muscle Intelligence Website: Muscle Intelligence

Marissa's Links:
• Marissa's Website
• Marissa's Instagram
• Teeter Talks Instagram
• Marissa's LinkedIn

On this episode of Teeter Talks, I am accompanied by the wonderful Khalil Khamis! Born into a family renowned in the restaurant industry, Khalil's entrepreneurial journey began early. With a degree in Management Economics and Industry Finance, he co-founded Fresh Media Events Inc., orchestrating hundreds of successful events. As the CEO of Crafty Ramen and the youngest multi-unit franchisee in Harvey’s history, Khalil drives innovation, achieving top-ranking restaurants and leading initiatives in community philanthropy and corporate strategy. Khalil's leadership skills have set him apart, and you will find he is packed with wisdom and invaluable advice for all entrepreneurs. Join us today as we dive into these leadership topics:

• How Khalil achieved the number one Harvey's store in the country by focusing on "fast food, fast" and consumer trust.
• Balancing working in the business versus working on the business in entrepreneurship.
• Khalil's story of growing up in the restaurant business with refugee parents who dreamed of owning Harvey's franchises and the unique dynamics of a family-run business.
• Embracing changing dreams, the necessity of passion in entrepreneurship, and the willingness to ask questions and learn new skills.
• Leading businesses with a culture that accepts mistakes, but requires learning from them while cultivating a mindset of leading to work yourself out of the job so others can grow.

I hope this chat has left you both inspired and hungry—for success in leadership and entrepreneurship! Personally, I'm already plotting my next stop at Crafty Ramen - and Harvey's. Show Khalil and this podcast some love and support, and remember, your feedback is so valuable—drop a rating or review wherever you're tuning in from!

Khalil Links:
Crafty Ramen: Crafty Ramen
Harvey’s: Harvey's
LinkedIn: Khalil Khamis

Marissa's Links:
• Marissa's Website
• Marissa's Instagram
• Teeter Talks Instagram
• Marissa's LinkedIn

On this episode of Teeter Talks, I am delighted to welcome the radiant Julie Cole!  Julie is an impressive individual—she's a recovered lawyer, a devoted mother of six, and the Co-founder of Mabel’s Labels Inc. Her journey as an entrepreneur is not just successful but celebrated, with accolades as an award-winning author and a highly sought-after speaker and emcee. Julie has graced the screens of NBC’s The Today Show, Breakfast Television, and many others, captivating audiences with her insights. Her thought-provoking articles have been featured in prestigious publications such as The Huffington Post, Today’s Parent, and The Globe and Mail. Beyond her professional achievements, Julie is deeply committed to her community, generously serving on boards and volunteering her time. Julie’s boundless energy and unwavering dedication shine through in everything she does, making her an inspiring beacon of leadership and empowerment. Join us today as we dive into these topics:

• Exploring how business and family teach us that fairness isn't always equality, emphasizing the importance of recognizing individual differences.
• Balancing personal and family expectations while starting a business, highlighting the power of collaboration and building a supportive network.
• Discussing the challenges of being a "mompreneur," including managing public perception and gaining genuine recognition.
• Knowing when to persevere or pivot in business, with a focus on honest self-assessment and the courage to start fresh.
• Emphasizing the impact of giving back through Time, Treasure, and Talent to enrich both community and personal growth.
• Redefining leadership as creating more leaders, not just followers, by empowering others to explore and grow autonomously.

What a delightful and enriching chat! I hope you're leaving here feeling inspired. If our conversation struck a chord with you, be sure to show Julie and this podcast your love and support. Your feedback is so valuable, so please leave a rating or review wherever you’re tuning in from!
 
Julie’s Links:
Mabel's Labels Website: Mabel's Labels
Learn More About Julie
Instagram: Julie Cole

YWCA: YWCA
United Way: United Way Worldwide

Marissa's Links:
• Marissa's Website
• Marissa's Instagram
• Teeter Talks Instagram
• Marissa's LinkedIn

Welcome to this energizing episode of Teeter Talks! Today, I am excited to be joined by the incredible Phylicia George. She is remarkable (you’ll see)! There's so much to admire about Phylicia. She is a three-time Olympian, having competed in the 100m hurdles at two Summer Olympics and earning a bronze medal in Bobsleigh at the Winter Olympics. Beyond her athletic achievements, Phylicia is a passionate writer, artist, and inspirational speaker. Her remarkable strength and authenticity empower others, leading them to realize their full potential and gain new perspectives. Don't miss this chance to hear from such an accomplished and multifaceted force of nature. Join us today as we dive into these topics:

• Phylicia's early love for sports, exploring how her childhood experiences and significant milestones shaped her path to success.
• Navigating through failures and disappointments, how resilience in the face of challenges can lead to greatness.
• The importance of embracing new experiences and trusting your inner fire to discover your passions.  
• Motivation behind Phylicia's decision to join and compete in bobsleigh and being brave. 
• Seeing great leadership as having authority, the ability to instill confidence, and allowing someone to believe in themselves. 

It is not everyday I leave a conversation feeling fueled and excited to chase my dreams. If you too felt encouraged, be sure to show Phylicia and this podcast some love and support as well. Your feedback is so valuable, so please leave a rating or review wherever you’re tuning in from!

Phylicia’s Links:
Instagram: @phyliciageorge

CanFund:
Instagram : @canfund
Website: CAN Fund

Marissa's Links:
• Marissa's Website
• Marissa's Instagram
• Teeter Talks Instagram
• Marissa's LinkedIn

On this episode of Teeter Talks, I am thrilled to be accompanied by the inspiring Joshua Cassidy! Joshua is not just a Paralympic athlete; he's also an artist, motivational speaker, coach, and devoted father. With an impressive 31 Canadian championship titles in wheelchair racing across various distances, including marathons, he's left his mark on prestigious events like the Boston Marathon. Beyond the track, Josh spreads positivity through motivational talks and coaching, all while nurturing his artistic talents with a BAA in Illustration. Fueled by the belief in limitless potential, he's on a mission to uplift, lead and inspire others to chase their dreams. Join us today as we dive into these topics:

• Reflecting on childhood memories and Joshua's journey with neuroblastoma diagnosis as an infant, illuminating the transformative perspective it granted him.
• Discovering wheelchair racing in highschool and Josh’s journey in taking it to the next level.
• Recognizing the significance of self-awareness in leadership across all roles, fostering collaboration, and exemplifying authentic humanity in leadership.
• Discovering harmony in life and mastering the art of self-sufficiency while embracing the power of collaboration.
• Embracing the mindset driving record-breaking achievements like the Boston Marathon, prioritizing forward momentum and personal potential over external limitations.

Leaving this conversation, I feel encouraged and empowered, and I hope you do too. If Joshua's story resonated with you, don't miss out on following his journey as he strives for the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics! Your feedback is impactful, so please take a moment to leave a rating or review wherever you're tuning in from!

Joshua’s Links:
Website: Josh Cassidy
Instagram: @joshcassidy84

Kindred Foundation:
Instagram: Kindred Foundation
Website: Kindred Foundation

Marissa's Links:
• Marissa's Website
• Marissa's Instagram
• Teeter Talks Instagram
• Marissa's LinkedIn

Get ready for an inspiring episode of Teeter Talks, as I am joined by the amazing Kaillie Humphries! Kaillie is a renowned Olympic bobsledder with a career marked by numerous accolades, including three Olympic gold medals and a bronze. She has become a trailblazer in the sport, known for her incredible strength, speed, and leadership. While her athletic success is impressive, her story of having to leave team Canada for team USA is one marked by courage and is truly inspiring. This experience has led her to advocate for safety and for women in sport. An athlete, Olympian, leader, and soon to be mother, Kaillie can truly be summed up as a badass woman! Join us today as we dive into these topics:

• The issue of abuse in sports and Kaillie's personal journey- including her experiences with abusive coaches and the pivotal decision to switch from Team Canada to Team USA.
• Kaillie's thoughts on leadership and some of the identifying characteristics that come with being a leader.
• Advocating for young girls, safety in sports and the importance of standing up for yourself and teammates.
• Challenges with infertility, Kaillie’s journey with IVF and the parallels between the Olympic and IVF process. 

Like me, I hope this episode has left you feeling empowered and grateful.  If you enjoyed listening, be sure to show Kaillie and this podcast some love and support as well. Your feedback is so valuable, so please leave a rating or review wherever you’re tuning in from! 

Kaillie’s Links:
Instagram: (@kailliehumphries)

Marissa's Links:
• Marissa's Website
• Marissa's Instagram
• Teeter Talks Instagram
• Marissa's LinkedIn