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In this episode of Within Reach, Giuliana Pallotta sits down with Michael Peres — a serial entrepreneur, journalist, and founder of multiple tech startups — for a compelling conversation about forging your own path, overcoming adversity, and thriving by going against the grain. From growing up in an ultra-Orthodox community with ADHD and learning disabilities to building media companies and tech ventures, Michael shares how he turned disadvantage into a superpower. He offers a bold, transparent perspective on entrepreneurship, the power of exponential growth, and why the real risk lies in staying safe. Whether you’re building a business, pivoting careers, or simply seeking clarity, this conversation will remind you that greatness is always within reach — if you’re willing to embrace discomfort and bet on yourself.
Time Stamps:
00:00 – Intro & Giuliana’s Welcome
01:00 – Michael’s early life, ADHD, and growing up Orthodox
03:00 – Finding purpose through learning and self-discipline
05:00 – Computers as escape, freedom, and first business
07:00 – From being told "you're bad at math" to a degree in mathematics
09:30 – Overcoming disadvantages & redefining mindset
11:00 – The true entrepreneurial personality: intelligent stubbornness
13:00 – Oscillating between operations and deep R&D sprints
15:00 – The “survival cost” approach to quitting your job and pursuing passion
17:00 – Are you willing to give something up to get what you want?
18:00 – Giuliana and Michael bond over their humble beginnings
19:30 – Reflections on exponential growth vs. linear income
Resources & Mentions:
If you found value in today's episode, please subscribe, leave us a review, and share it with your friends. Have a question or topic you'd love us to explore? Reach out to us on social media.
Giuliana Pallotta, Broker
Coldwell Banker Ronan Realty, Brokerage
https://www.facebook.com/pallottaproperty
https://www.instagram.com/pallottaproperty/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/giuliana-pallotta-048412b9
And just a quick reminder, the content provided in this podcast is for entertainment purposes only. We are not offering professional, real estate, legal, or financial advice, and we recommend consulting with the appropriate experts before making any real estate decisions. Neither the host nor the guests or production company are liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.
What happens when your identity as an athlete comes to an end—but your competitive spirit and love for the game don’t? In this powerful episode, Giuliana Pallotta sits down with athlete, turned strength and conditioning coach turned entrepreneur Alena Luciani, founder of Training2XL, to explore the real story behind building a purpose-driven fitness brand.
From sudden personal loss to starting a business before she thought she was “ready,” Alena opens up about navigating grief, burnout, and growth—while serving athletes in both sport and life. You’ll hear how her background shaped her mission, how she scaled Training2XL with integrity, and why finding your niche isn’t about niching down—it’s about showing up fully as yourself.
Whether you’re pivoting careers, building a brand, or figuring out what’s next after sport, this episode will help you see what’s within reach—and inspire you to just start.
Timestamps:
0:00 – “No one will ever care about your business like you do”
1:00 – Welcome to Within Reach
2:00 – Alena’s athletic background and inspiration from her mom
4:00 – The moment that changed everything: losing her father
5:00 – Resigning from her full-time job to go all-in
6:30 – Letting go of limitations and betting on herself
8:00 – Defining her niche: athletes in sport and athletes in life
10:00 – How Training2XL evolved (and keeps evolving)
12:00 – Hiring professionals, staying legit, and staying organized
13:30 – Tools and systems she swears by
15:00 – The loneliness of entrepreneurship and trusting the right people
16:30 – What makes it all worth it: impact and passion
17:30 – How she’s navigating growth—and deciding who to hire next
18:30 – The gift of community, AI, and learning as you go
Notable Quotes:
Resources & Mentions:
Key Takeaways:
If you found value in today's episode, please subscribe, leave us a review, and share it with your friends. Have a question or topic you'd love us to explore? Reach out to us on social media.
Giuliana Pallotta, Broker
Coldwell Banker Ronan Realty, Brokerage
https://www.facebook.com/pallottaproperty
https://www.instagram.com/pallottaproperty/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/giuliana-pallotta-048412b9
And just a quick reminder, the content provided in this podcast is for entertainment purposes only. We are not offering professional, real estate, legal, or financial advice, and we recommend consulting with the appropriate experts before making any real estate decisions. Neither the host nor the guests or production company are liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.
In this eye-opening episode of Within Reach, Giuliana sits down with Andrea Callegari, a seasoned senior valuation consultant and accredited appraiser at Avison Young. From her early days in the family business to leading high-stakes commercial valuations today, Andrea offers a transparent and expert look at the real estate appraisal process. Whether you're an investor, property owner, or just curious about how real estate is valued, Andrea shares critical insights into the purpose, process, and power of credible appraisals. Discover how market trends, due diligence, and even meth lab explosions (!) can impact property value—and why experience and objectivity matter more than ever.
Timestamps
[00:00:00] Introduction to appraisals as powerful decision-making tools
[00:01:00] Meet Andrea Callegari – career journey & early start in appraisals
[00:04:00] Why appraisals are crucial for financing, buying, and selling
[00:06:00] Appraisals vs. Letters of Opinion: Key differences
[00:08:00] The importance of choosing a qualified appraiser
[00:10:00] Specialization by asset class and location expertise
[00:13:00] Residential vs. commercial appraisals
[00:16:00] Turnaround time: What to expect
[00:17:00] What appraisers need from clients to complete a report
[00:20:00] Addressing low-quality data and unreliable rent rolls
[00:21:00] Market trends and their effect on valuations
[00:24:00] Biggest challenge: Lack of reliable data in tertiary markets
[00:27:00] What buyers should look for in appraisal reports
[00:31:00] Crazy appraisal stories: Meth labs and missing properties
[00:34:00] When subjective judgment meets objective data
[00:36:00] Dream appraisal: Buckingham Palace
[00:38:00] Wrap-up and final thoughts
Notable Quotes
"Every report I prepare—whether residential or commercial—has to be ready to stand up in a court of law." — Andrea Callegari
"Valuation principles transcend borders, but local market knowledge still matters."
"If an appraiser doesn’t have expertise in that asset class, they shouldn’t be taking the assignment."
"Sometimes, people think their building is in great condition… and it’s really not."
"AI can’t replace physically visiting a property to verify it even exists!"
Key Takeaways
If you found value in today's episode, please subscribe, leave us a review, and share it with your friends. Have a question or topic you'd love us to explore? Reach out to us on social media.
Giuliana Pallotta, Broker
Coldwell Banker Ronan Realty, Brokerage
https://www.facebook.com/pallottaproperty
https://www.instagram.com/pallottaproperty/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/giuliana-pallotta-048412b9
And just a quick reminder, the content provided in this podcast is for entertainment purposes only. We are not offering professional, real estate, legal, or financial advice, and we recommend consulting with the appropriate experts before making any real estate decisions. Neither the host nor the guests or production company are liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.
In this episode of Within Reach, we sit down with Logan Weaver, Founder & CEO of Surmount AI, to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the investment landscape. Logan shares his journey from studying statistics and finance to developing a cutting-edge AI platform that simplifies investing for individuals and advisors alike.
We discuss:
✅ The difference between traditional investing, robo-advisors, and AI-driven portfolios
✅ How AI can help investors make smarter, emotion-free decisions
✅ The impact of machine learning on portfolio management and risk assessment
✅ Key principles for beginner investors to build long-term wealth
✅ The future of AI in finance and what’s next for Surmount AI
Whether you're an experienced investor or just getting started, this episode will provide you with valuable insights into how technology is reshaping the way we manage money.
🎧 Tune in now and take your investing strategy to the next level!
Timestamps:
[00:00] Introduction – The power of compounding and the importance of a nest egg
[01:00] Meet Logan Weaver: His journey from finance to AI-driven investing
[02:30] What is Surmount AI, and how is it different from traditional robo-advisors?
[04:00] The role of AI and machine learning in investment strategy development
[05:30] Why taking emotions out of investing leads to better financial outcomes
[07:00] How Surmount AI customizes investment portfolios for individuals
[09:00] Logan’s personal investment approach and how he bootstrapped Surmount AI
[10:30] The challenges of building an AI-driven financial platform
[12:00] Advice on filtering out financial misinformation
[14:00] Foundational investing principles for beginners
[15:30] AI’s growing influence on investing over the next 5-10 years
[17:00] The future of financial advising—Will AI replace human advisors?
[19:00] What’s next for Surmount AI, including mobile app and creator partnerships
[20:00] Logan’s final piece of advice: Start investing, stay disciplined, and let it compound
Notable Quote:
"The more you have, the more you let it compound, and the more you don't touch it—things really can grow quickly." – Logan Weaver
Resources Mentioned:
📌 Surmount AI Website – Learn more about Logan’s AI-powered investing platform
📌 Peter Lynch & Warren Buffett Investment Strategies – A great starting point for investors
📌 Kevin Davey’s Algorithmic Trading Book – The book that inspired Logan’s journey into algorithmic investing
📌 AI & Investing – Stay updated on how AI is evolving in the financial world
If you found value in today's episode, please subscribe, leave us a review, and share it with your friends. Have a question or topic you'd love us to explore? Reach out to us on social media.
Giuliana Pallotta, Broker
Coldwell Banker Ronan Realty, Brokerage
https://www.facebook.com/pallottaproperty
https://www.instagram.com/pallottaproperty/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/giuliana-pallotta-048412b9
And just a quick reminder, the content provided in this podcast is for entertainment purposes only. We are not offering professional, real estate, legal, or financial advice, and we recommend consulting with the appropriate experts before making any real estate decisions. Neither the host nor the guests or production company are liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.
In this episode of Within Reach, we sit down with Jonah Bonn, founder of First Bay Properties, to uncover the journey from a grassroots start to building a thriving commercial real estate business. Jonah shares insights on market trends, investment strategies, and the keys to successful property management. With a focus on multi-tenant industrial and retail assets, he explains how patience, planning, and problem-solving have been crucial in shaping his success. If you’re looking to break into commercial real estate or refine your investment approach, this episode is packed with valuable lessons.
Timestamps:
[00:00] Introduction to Within Reach
[01:00] Meet Jonah Bonn & First Bay Properties
[03:00] Jonah’s unconventional entry into real estate
[06:00] The first big investment & the leap into industrial assets
[08:30] Why Atlantic Canada? Spotting opportunities in secondary markets
[11:00] Challenges of multi-tenant property management
[14:00] The importance of having a long-term investment strategy
[17:00] Trends in industrial & retail real estate
[20:30] Leveraging technology for efficient property management
[23:00] Lessons from managing a private mortgage fund
[27:00] The importance of tenant relations & ethical business practices
[30:00] Jonah’s advice for aspiring real estate investors
[32:00] Closing thoughts & how to connect with Jonah
Key Takeaways:
Notable Quotes:
“Start with a plan, stay focused, and be patient. That’s how you turn real estate into a long-term success.” Jonah Bonn
If you found value in today's episode, please subscribe, leave us a review, and share it with your friends. Have a question or topic you'd love us to explore? Reach out to us on social media.
Giuliana Pallotta, Broker
Coldwell Banker Ronan Realty, Brokerage
https://www.facebook.com/pallottaproperty
https://www.instagram.com/pallottaproperty/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/giuliana-pallotta-048412b9
And just a quick reminder, the content provided in this podcast is for entertainment purposes only. We are not offering professional, real estate, legal, or financial advice, and we recommend consulting with the appropriate experts before making any real estate decisions. Neither the host nor the guests or production company are liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.
In this episode of Within Reach, Giuliana sits down with Nicole Bremner, a former financial services professional turned property developer, author, and podcast host. Nicole shares her remarkable journey from being Australia's youngest chartered financial planner to developing over 125 property projects. She discusses her transition through various international markets, her experience in property development, and her current focus on making financial advice accessible to everyone through her social enterprise, Prosperity Group.
Key Takeaways
Time Stamps
[00:00:00] - Episode introduction and opening quote about starting your investment journey
[00:01:00] - Introduction to Nicole Bremner and her background
[00:02:00] - Nicole's early career transition from dentistry to financial planning
[00:03:00] - Move to Europe and career adaptation
[00:04:00] - Cultural differences in work environments across countries
[00:07:00] - Entry into property development through first project
[00:09:00] - Scale of property development projects and achievements
[00:11:00] - Discussion of initial capital and funding strategies
[00:13:00] - Experience with crowdfunding and raising capital
[00:15:00] - Building personal brand through social media
[00:17:00] - Creation of Prosperity Group and shift in career focus
[00:21:00] - Approach to financial advice and coaching
[00:22:00] - Strategy for managing market uncertainty
[00:24:00] - Lessons learned from business partnerships [
00:26:00] - Time management and daily organization
[00:29:00] - Important mindset shifts for success
[00:31:00] - Future plans and projects
[00:33:00] - Closing advice for aspiring investors
Guest Information
Nicole Bremner is a property developer, author, and financial coach who has completed over 125 property projects in London. She is the founder of Prosperity Group, a social enterprise aimed at making quality financial advice accessible to everyone. Nicole hosts her own podcast and is currently working on a new book while continuing to advise and mentor others in property investment and financial planning.
https://www.nicolebremner.com/
If you found value in today's episode, please subscribe, leave us a review, and share it with your friends. Have a question or topic you'd love us to explore? Reach out to us on social media.
Giuliana Pallotta, Broker
Coldwell Banker Ronan Realty, Brokerage
https://www.facebook.com/pallottaproperty
https://www.instagram.com/pallottaproperty/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/giuliana-pallotta-048412b9
And just a quick reminder, the content provided in this podcast is for entertainment purposes only. We are not offering professional, real estate, legal, or financial advice, and we recommend consulting with the appropriate experts before making any real estate decisions. Neither the host nor the guests or production company are liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.
In this episode of Within Reach, host Juliana Pallotta interviews Pino Decina, president and founder of Falcon Ridge Management Limited and Abbey Ridge Mortgage Investment Corporation. With over 25 years of experience in financial and real estate sectors, Pino provides valuable insights into Mortgage Investment Corporations (MICs), their operation, benefits, and how they serve as an alternative investment vehicle in the Canadian real estate market.
Learn more: https://abbeyridgemic.ca/
Key Takeaways
· MICs provide an alternative fixed income investment opportunity with lower barriers to entry
Notable Timestamps
[00:00:00] Introduction to MICs and their basic structure
[00:03:00] Pino's background and journey in the financial space
[00:04:00] Detailed explanation of how MICs operate
[00:08:00] Discussion of diversification benefits
[00:11:00] Investment risk profiles and returns
[00:14:00] Redemption policies and investment timeframes
[00:21:00] Success stories and compound interest benefits
[00:25:00] Market conditions and economic impact on MICs
[00:29:00] The role of MICs in the Canadian marketplace
[00:31:00] Future opportunities and construction financing
Notable Quotes
"A mortgage investment corporation in its simplest form is an alternative fixed income investment... where investors can come together, pool their money, and purchase shares in the company."
"If you get a seven percent return on an asset... the investment should double every seven [years]."
"One in four to one in five Canadians hold mortgages outside of a mainstream bank."
"We stick to our knitting... we know that the market is ever changing, it always has been, always will be, and we'll continue to look for the right opportunities."
Guest Information
If you found value in today's episode, please subscribe, leave us a review, and share it with your friends. Have a question or topic you'd love us to explore? Reach out to us on social media.
Giuliana Pallotta, Broker
Coldwell Banker Ronan Realty, Brokerage
https://www.facebook.com/pallottaproperty
https://www.instagram.com/pallottaproperty/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/giuliana-pallotta-048412b9
And just a quick reminder, the content provided in this podcast is for entertainment purposes only. We are not offering professional, real estate, legal, or financial advice, and we recommend consulting with the appropriate experts before making any real estate decisions. Neither the host nor the guests or production company are liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.
In this episode, Evan Childs shares her remarkable journey from NCAA athlete to successful entrepreneur and investor. As founder of Novel Athletic Wear and several other ventures, she discusses how her athletic background shaped her business mindset. Evan reveals her approach to identifying market gaps, building authentic brands, and maintaining work-life balance while running multiple successful businesses. She emphasizes the importance of staying true to personal values in business partnerships and shares valuable insights on long-term investing. The conversation highlights how she transformed challenges into opportunities, particularly in the women's athletic wear market, while maintaining focus on family priorities and personal growth.
Evan Childs - Entrepreneur, founder of Novel Athletic Wear, investor, athlete, and mom
Website
Episode Timestamps
[00:00:00] Opening quote on self-belief and discipline
[00:02:00] Guest introduction and background
[00:03:00] NCAA athletics experience and entrepreneurial mindset
[00:06:00] Transition from fitness to business
[00:08:00] Development of Alpha Female program
[00:10:00] Origins of athletic wear business
[00:13:00] Evolution to Novel and market differentiation
[00:16:00] Brand partnerships and authenticity
[00:19:00] Investment journey and strategy
[00:24:00] Motivation and family priorities
[00:28:00] Future goals and business approach
[00:31:00] Final advice on achieving goals
Key Takeaways
Business Development
Investment Philosophy
Work-Life Balance
Success Principles
Notable Quotes
"I wish that I could bottle that up and give it to people because I truly believe we're all capable of doing it. It's just the decision that you have to make."
"Time in the market is more important than timing the market."
"If you don't start putting money away for your later life years, you're not going to be able to live the way you want."
If you found value in today's episode, please subscribe, leave us a review, and share it with your friends. Have a question or topic you'd love us to explore? Reach out to us on social media.
Giuliana Pallotta, Broker
Coldwell Banker Ronan Realty, Brokerage
https://www.facebook.com/pallottaproperty
https://www.instagram.com/pallottaproperty/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/giuliana-pallotta-048412b9
And just a quick reminder, the content provided in this podcast is for entertainment purposes only. We are not offering professional, real estate, legal, or financial advice, and we recommend consulting with the appropriate experts before making any real estate decisions. Neither the host nor the guests or production company are liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.
In this episode of 'Commercial Real Estate Within Reach,' host GIuliana Pallotta is joined by Marc Ronan, the owner and sales representative of Coldwell Banker Ronan Realty Brokerage. With over 45 years of experience in real estate, Marc shares his journey from a young entrepreneur to becoming the number one sales representative in Canada for Coldwell Banker. The discussion covers the differences between residential and commercial real estate, the importance of discipline, accountability, and continuous education in the industry, and valuable advice for new real estate investors. Marc emphasizes the role of trust, personal relationships, and community engagement in achieving long-term success. Learn how to navigate the current economy and make informed real estate decisions from one of the best in the business.
Www.marcronan.com
Instagram @marcronan_realestate
Time Stamps:
00:00 Work Hard, Play Hard, and Give Back
00:32 Welcome to Commercial Real Estate Within Reach
01:18 Meet Marc Ronan: A Real Estate Powerhouse
02:21 Marc's Journey into Real Estate
06:28 Residential vs. Commercial Real Estate
09:44 Advice for Aspiring Investors
11:58 The Importance of Professional Guidance
15:11 Current Economic Impact on Real Estate
16:27 Future Growth in Simcoe County
17:31 Marc's Favorite Part of the Job
19:19 Final Advice and Conclusion
20:52 Closing Remarks and Credits
This podcast is powered by Coldwell Banker Ronan Commercial
https://cbronancommercial.com/
If you found value in today's episode, please subscribe, leave us a review, and share it with your friends. Have a question or topic you'd love us to explore? Reach out to us on social media.
Giuliana Pallotta, Broker
Coldwell Banker Ronan Realty, Brokerage
https://www.facebook.com/pallottaproperty
https://www.instagram.com/pallottaproperty/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/giuliana-pallotta-048412b9
And just a quick reminder, the content provided in this podcast is for entertainment purposes only. We are not offering professional, real estate, legal, or financial advice, and we recommend consulting with the appropriate experts before making any real estate decisions. Neither the host nor the guests or production company are liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.
In this episode of 'Commercial Real Estate Within Reach,' host Giuliana Pallotta delves into the essential aspects of commercial real estate insurance with Trevor Cation, president of Moen Insurance Brokers. Highlights include the importance of understanding building valuations, the distinctions between commercial and residential insurance, and the strategic approach to managing risk through customized insurance solutions. Trevor shares his journey to becoming an insurance broker, practical advice for aspiring investors, and the significance of having industry experts on your side. The conversation also covers the role of mentorship in professional growth and the advantages of personalized advisory services in achieving investment success.
Get in touch with Trevor https://www.mowen.ca/
00:00 Introduction to Commercial Real Estate Within Reach
00:47 Why Real Estate Insurance Matters
01:01 Meet the Expert: Trevor Cation
02:27 Trevor's Journey in Insurance
08:27 Understanding Commercial Insurance
15:57 Advice for Real Estate Investors
23:00 Comparing Residential and Commercial Insurance
32:53 Mentorship and Career Growth
37:17 Final Thoughts and Farewell
If you found value in today's episode, please subscribe, leave us a review, and share it with your friends. Have a question or topic you'd love us to explore? Reach out to us on social media.
Giuliana Pallotta, Broker
Coldwell Banker Ronan Realty, Brokerage
https://www.facebook.com/pallottaproperty
https://www.instagram.com/pallottaproperty/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/giuliana-pallotta-048412b9
And just a quick reminder, the content provided in this podcast is for entertainment purposes only. We are not offering professional, real estate, legal, or financial advice, and we recommend consulting with the appropriate experts before making any real estate decisions. Neither the host nor the guests or production company are liable for any actions taken based on this podcast.
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