Fearless Entrepreneurs Podcast (Cindy Chang)

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

Join host Cindy Chang as she explores the inspiring stories of Canada's boldest business owners. Each episode dives into the stories of the person behind the businesses, exploring their motivations, challenges, and successes. Discover how these entrepreneurs leaned into fear and turned ideas into thriving businesses. Perfect for entrepreneurs, aspiring entrepreneurs, or anyone who loves inspiring Canadian-focused stories, this podcast gets to the heart of who they are and what drives them.

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[FOOD]
#01: In the inaugural episode of the Fearless Entrepreneurs Podcast, host Cindy Chang interviews Emily O'Brien about her incredible journey to starting Comeback Snacks, a gourmet popcorn company, FROM PRISON. Learn how a single youthful mistake led to a four-year prison sentence, and how Emily transformed her challenges into opportunities, building a thriving business and becoming an advocate for inmate reintegration programs. Discover her inspiring story of resilience, redemption, and entrepreneurial spirit.

Follow Emily on IG: @Emz.obrien + @ComeBackSnacks 

Come Back Snacks website + where to buy!

John Howard Society: Reform in Criminal Justice.

Look out for a Comeback Snacks Giveaway on Fearless Entrepreneur IG to kick off the podcast launch!

CHAPTERS:

00:38 Meet Emily O'Brien: Founder of Comeback Snacks

02:35 Emily's Early Life + Struggles

06:34 The Infamous Trip 

13:21 Life After Arrest: Coping and Reflection

17:21 Scaling Fair Chance Hiring

19:53 Starting a Business in Prison

24:25 Prison Life Reflections

27:33 Healing and Moving Forward

29:58 Get to Know Your CEO

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[BLOGGER/ AUTHOR] [TRAUMA]
#02: In this episode, host Cindy Chang interviews Anastasia Fusillo, founder of Busy Mama Co, a blogger and Instagram creator of a family adventures bible for parents in Ontario. Anastasia shares her journey from battling agoraphobia to turning her blog into a thriving business during the COVID-19 pandemic. She discusses her book, 'Ripped, Rippled, and Repaired,' which explores her struggles with childhood trauma and mental health. Anastasia provides valuable insights on leveraging social media for business, coping with anxiety, and the importance of facing fears for herself and as a parent. This episode offers personal anecdotes, practical advice, and inspiring moments for entrepreneurs and moms alike.

Follow Anastasia on IG: @BusyMamaCo, Linktree to events and her Blog.

Social Media Build Your Own Business Guide can be found here.

Her Book: Ripped, Rippled and Repaired is available on Amazon.

Look out for a Book Giveaway on Fearless Entrepreneur IG to kick off the podcast launch!

CHAPTERS:

00:57 Meet Anastasia: Blogger, Influencer, and Author

02:22 The Start of Busy Mama Co.

03:14 Navigating Agoraphobia and Motherhood

04:39 Turning a Passion into a Business

06:22 Social Media Strategies for Business Growth

07:21 Personal Struggles and Triumphs

10:44 Future Plans for Busy Mama Co.

15:24 Dealing with Childhood Trauma and Agoraphobia

29:51 Reflecting on Childhood Anxiety

31:11 Parenting with Anxiety

36:00 Understanding OCD and Intrusive Thoughts

38:51 Writing and Publishing a Book

44:01 Get to know your CEO

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[FINANCE] 
#03: In this episode of the Fearless Entrepreneurs Podcast, host Cindy Chang interviews Michelle Robertson, founder of Ms. Money and Math. Michelle, a CPA and financial planner, shares her bold journey from a six-figure executive position in corporate Canada to entrepreneurship. Emphasizing that money is a tool for freedom, she discusses her program '10 Weeks to Financial Fierceness,' which helps women master money management, mindset, and investing. Michelle's story inspires listeners to be bold, get comfortable with being uncomfortable, and pursue a life of autonomy and impact.

Follow Michelle on IG: @ms.moneyandmath

LinkedIn: Michelle Robertson 

Company Website: Ms. Money and Math

FREE GUIDE: Avoid These 10 Money Myths and Get Rich

Book a Clarity Call with Michelle HERE.

Michelle’s Book Recco: Who Not How by Dan Sullivan

CHAPTERS:

00:38 Meet Michelle Robertson of Ms. Money and Math

01:51 Michelle's Journey to Financial Empowerment

02:30 The Importance of Financial Education for Women

06:14 Starting Ms. Money and Math During a Pandemic

10:02 Challenges and Triumphs of Building a Business Abroad

14:45 Marketing and Scaling the Business

18:44 Key Investments for Business Growth

20:29 Funnel Audit and Sales Challenges

21:42 The Importance of Delegation

23:32 Mindset and Money Management

26:06 DIY Investments vs. Financial Advisors

33:22  Get to Know Your CEO

35:09 Conclusion and Resources

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[PODCAST PRODUCER] 
#04: In this special Launch Month bonus episode, host Cindy Chang talks with Jeremy Schreifels, an accomplished entrepreneur with a rich background in audio production, writing, voice activation, and executive coaching. Jeremy shares his inspiring journey from touring musician to business mentor, discussing how he scaled back to focus on family and ultimately founded Box 7 Media. Discover how Jeremy leverages podcasts to tie in his musical roots and help business owners tell their unique stories. Tune in for insights on balancing passion with family, overcoming challenges, and the power of authentic connections.

Follow Jeremy on IG: J_Schreifels + Box7.Media

LinkedIn: Jeremy Schreifels

Facebook: Jeremy Schreifels

X: Music by Jeremy

Company Website: Road to 99

Jeremy’s Book: Road to 99

Jeremy’s Recommendation for Podcast Equipment LINK

Look out for a Giveaway in August 2024 on Fearless Entrepreneur IG to kick off the podcast launch!

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Host Intro – Bonus Episode Exception

02:41 Jeremy's Journey in Music and Family Life

07:22 Balancing Entrepreneurship and Parenting

12:18 The Power of Storytelling and Podcasting

16:46 Box Seven Media: Empowering Entrepreneurs

22:52 Starting Your Own Podcast: Tips and Advice

26:59 Motivation and Overcoming Failure

34:08 Turning Passion into Profit

41:37 Upcoming Projects and Final Thoughts

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[ADVOCATE]
#05: In this episode, we meet Alison Venditti, founder of Moms at Work, Canada's largest network for working moms + moms to be. Alison shares her journey from an HR career to creating a supportive community for working mothers after being deemed “unemployable” due to a brain injury. She discusses the impact of COVID-19 on working moms, her advocacy for pay transparency, and the challenges of balancing entrepreneurial success with personal well-being. She also delves into legislation she helped pass, the importance of community building, and how part-time work can be a viable yet damaging solution for many women.

Follow Allison on IG: This is Moms at Work

LinkedIn: Allison Venditti + Moms at Work

Company Website + FREE Resources for women: https://thisismomsatwork.com/

Join The Collective (Doors opens in Oct 2024)

Private Facebook Group: Moms at Work Group (19K members)

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[PRODUCTS] [KIDS]
#06: In this episode, we meet Julie Cole, co-founder of Mabel's Labels, to uncover her inspiring journey from a lawyer to a successful entrepreneur and mother of six. Julie shares how a simple need for durable, customizable labels led to the creation of a booming business—all while juggling the demands of a growing family. From starting out in a basement to scaling Mabel’s Labels and eventually selling it to Avery, Julie opens up about the challenges, triumphs, and lessons learned along the way. With a focus on core values, communication, and resourcefulness, Julie’s story offers powerful insights for anyone looking to balance business and life. If you're in need of a dose of inspiration, this conversation is a must-listen.

Follow Julie on IG: @JulieColeInc + @Mabelslabels

Follow Julie on LinkedIn: Julie Cole

Mabel's Labels Website, Blog + Linktree!

Check out Julie’s Book: Like a Mother: Birthing Business, Babies and a Life Beyond Labels.

Look out for a Mabel's Labels X Fearless Entrepreneur IG for a HOT BACK TO SCHOOL GIVEAWAY!

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[CONSULTANT] [MARKETING]
#07: In this episode, we meet Barry MacDonald, a serial entrepreneur with an impressive career spanning multiple industries. Barry's journey started at 16, managing government contracts with NASA, and by 19, he was expanding franchises internationally. He co-founded 3D Light Effects, achieving global sales and major licensing deals with Disney and Marvel. Now, he leads Concept2Solution and Elevate Bluffs, both opportunities he pioneered for himself. Throughout his career, Barry has embraced challenges with a never-say-no mantra, providing value first, and shares his valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Follow Barry on IG: @Concept2Solution + Elevate Bluffs 

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[BABY] [OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST]
#08: In this episode, we meet Kaili Ets, an occupational therapist and known as “the holistic baby guru”. Kaili shares her journey from aspiring pediatrician to entrepreneur, while raising two children. Kaili has dedicated her career to helping new moms overcome feelings of guilt, trust their intuition, and understand the root causes of why their babies are not eating, sleeping, fussing. She shares her unique holistic approach, focusing on birth trauma, infant care, and empowering mothers to confidently embrace their natural instincts. 

About Kaili + her company website: Cranial OT

Follow Kaili on IG: @TheHolisticBabyGuru

Facebook: The Holistic Baby Guru

YouTube Channel for Baby Tips: The Holistic Baby Guru

Kaili’s Podcast: Mothering From Within

Kaili’s Book: Mothering from Within

Book a free consult with Kaili!

Free Resource: Which Sleep Chronotype is your Baby? 

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[TECH] [AI] [EOS]

#09: In this episode, we meet the dynamic, award-winning entrepreneur Joseph Apps, founder of Joe Apps Technology Support. From humble beginnings to leading a thriving tech company, Joe shares his incredible journey packed with real-life lessons. He opens up about overcoming massive challenges—like fires and floods—and how he built a trusted brand around teamwork and innovation. With AI and cybersecurity at the forefront of his strategy, Joe breaks down how he’s staying ahead in the rapidly evolving tech world. This inspiring conversation is full of actionable insights on resilience, growth, and the power of community for any aspiring entrepreneur!

Company Website: Joe Apps Technology Support

Follow Joe Apps on IG: @JoeAppsSupport + @ItsJoeApps

LinkedIn: Joseph Apps 

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[FOOD] [DESSERT] 
#10: In this episode of the Fearless Entrepreneurs Podcast, we meet Laila Jazar, founder of Laila Cheesecake Co. Laila shares how her business began with a pregnancy craving in 2017 and evolved into a successful handcrafted cheesecake business with a storefront in Burlington, Ontario, amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Laila discusses overcoming self-doubt, balancing high-quality ingredient costs, and how social media and community support played a critical role in her growth. Laila's journey showcases the power of adaptability, perseverance and positivity. She is pure sunshine in a jar.

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[FERTILITY] [GRIEF]

Trigger Warning: this episode contains content about stillbirth. It may not be suitable for all listeners and listener discretion is strongly advised.

#11: In this heartfelt bonus episode of the Fearless Entrepreneurs Podcast, host Cindy Chang sits down with Dianne Ryder, founder of Mala Bliss and The Daisy Collective. Dianne shares her poignant and transformative journey through the heartbreak of stillbirth and miscarriage, detailing how she turned her grief into a mission to support families facing fertility challenges. Partnering with Fertility Matters Canada, she not only donates a portion of her proceeds but also creates a safe space and community for other women to grieve together. Listen to Dianne's inspiring story of resilience, the importance of genuine support, and her commitment to collective healing by transforming trauma into purpose.

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[FERTILITY] [GRIEF] [DIVORCE] [RELIGION]

Trigger Warning: this episode contains content about stillbirth. It may not be suitable for all listeners and listener discretion is strongly advised.

#12: In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with Melissa Sulley, grief coach and founder of Josiah & Co. Melissa opens up about her personal journey through multiple pregnancy losses and how these experiences led her to become a pregnancy and infant loss doula and pregnancy loss coach. With a background in psychology, Melissa shares her insights into navigating grief, the emotional toll of trauma, and finding purpose through helping others heal.

Melissa also discusses the gaps in prenatal care, the importance of community support, and how she balances her professional mission with personal grief, especially post-divorce. Tune in for a raw and powerful conversation about resilience, vulnerability, and the strength found in honoring grief. 

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[FOOD] [GRIEF]

#13: In this episode, we meet Miki Talebi, the founder of Oome. With a Ph.D. in Psychology and experience in public policy, Miki's path to entrepreneurship began after reevaluating her career during her maternity leave and the sudden tragic loss of her father in 2020. Oome, inspired by her Japanese heritage and her father's love for smoked foods, has grown to be stocked in over 250 retailers across Canada. Miki shares her journey from being an academic to a business owner, the challenges faced, and the deep personal connections that fuel her brand.

Follow Miki on IG: @ThisIsOomé

LinkedIn: Miki Talebi + Oomé

Company Website: This is Oomé

Facebook: ThisIsOomé

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[PETS] [ENRICHMENTS]

#14: In this episode, we sit down with Smriti Pratishruti, the heart behind PawzNDogz and LuvMyFido. Smriti opens up about her journey from a steady corporate job to building a pet brand inspired by her late beloved dog, Princess. A premium pet brand specializing in high-quality, durable snuffle mats designed to enrich canine lives. She shares the ups and downs of creating high-quality snuffle mats, the hurdles of launching during the pandemic, being a new immigrant to Canada and the countless rejections she faced along the way. Through all the challenges, Smriti has gained global recognition, innovation awards and is in over 1,200 retailers globally today.

Company Website: DogzNPawz and LuvMyFido

Follow on IG: PawzNDogz and LuvMyFido

Facebook: PawzNDogz and LuvMyFido

TikTok: PawzNDogz 

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[TEA] 

#15: In this episode, we meet founder of Osobelle Tea Co. Osob shares her journey from Kenya to Canada, detailing how she transformed personal grief, including the loss of her husband, into a thriving sustainable tea business centered around healing, self-care, and community building. The episode delves into her entrepreneurial challenges, passion for local and sustainable practices, and her mission to foster community through tea. Osob also discusses balancing corporate life with her entrepreneurial dreams, the pivotal moments that led her to fully commit to her business, and the importance of sharing stories and culture through tea.

Follow Osob on IG: Osobelle Tea Co.

LinkedIn: Osob Adus  

Company Website: https://www.osobelletea.com/

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[Real Estate] [Music Producer] [Investor] [Serial Entrepreneur]

#16: In this episode of the Fearless Entrepreneurs Podcast, we meet Sean McRae, also known as Sean Frost, a dynamic and multi-faceted entrepreneur from Ottawa, Canada. Sean shares his journey from his humble beginnings, his early passion for music, to his ventures in real estate and beyond. Inspiring with his mantra 'Live Like They Dream', Sean dives into his experiences with building multiple businesses, overcoming obstacles, and balancing his entrepreneurial pursuits with being a dedicated father. The conversation explores Sean's unique approach to business, his commitment to helping others, and his thoughts on the importance of personal growth and accountability.

Follow Sean Frost on his website!

Follow Sean on IG: IAmSeanFrost 

Artists that he manages: Two Tiime + Polo G

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[FOOD] [CHEF] [SEASONFINALE]

#17: In this unforgettable season finale of the Fearless Entrepreneurs Podcast, host Cindy Chang welcomes Michael Hunter, the culinary trailblazer famously known as The Hunter Chef. From his humble beginnings growing up on a horse farm in Southern Ontario to becoming the mastermind behind Toronto’s renowned Antler Kitchen and Bar, Michael’s story is one of grit, innovation, and a deep connection to nature. He shares how his love for hunting and foraging shaped his unique culinary philosophy, the dramatic moments when vegan protests thrust him into the spotlight, and the resilience it took to steer his business through the pandemic. Hear Michael’s raw, unfiltered take on balancing passion, controversy, and success in the culinary landscape.

Restaurant Website: Antler Kitchen Bar 

Follow Michael on IG: Antler + The Hunter Chef

LinkedIn: Michael Hunter

Notable Links: 

The Hunter Chef Cookbook

Antler in Michelin Guide

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[ENTREPRENEUR] [RECRUITMENT]

Season 2 Premier, Episode 18!  We made it to Season 2, and in this special episode,  our host Cindy Chang, founder of Evolve Consulting Co., takes the hot seat as her business coach, Shelagh Cummins, leads the conversation. Join us as we unpack my journey from corporate professional to entrepreneur—building a side hustle that became her full-time passion.

We’ll explore the highs and hurdles of entrepreneurship, her mission to empower stay-at-home moms and small businesses, and the bold plans she has to disrupt the recruitment industry.

This episode is packed with inspiration, insights, and a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to lead fearlessly.

Evolve Consulting Co. Website

Follow Cindy on IG: @Evolve_Consulting_Co. Or @FearlessEntrepreneurs Podcast 

Special Guest + Co-Host: Shelagh Cummins (completely amazing business coach)

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[EATING DISORDER] [RECOVERY] [MENTAL HEALTH]

#19: In this episode of the Fearless Entrepreneurs Podcast, host Cindy Chang interviews Rebecca Rhectorik, co-founder of the Holistic ED Recovery Centre. With over a decade of experience in eating disorder recovery, Rebecca founded the center in 2024 to provide personalized, holistic care, addressing a 305% global rise in adolescent ED admissions.

Rebecca shares her own personal journey, from battling an eating disorder in grade 10 to transforming her struggles into a mission to help others heal. She emphasizes the importance of family support and mental wellness in achieving lasting recovery. Her story is one of resilience and compassion, inspiring hope and change for those affected by eating disorders.

There are lots of resources, please don't feel helpless or alone.

Holistic ED Recovery WEBSITE

Follow on IG: @holisticedrecovery

Follow on Facebook – The Holistic ED Recovery Center

Follow on LinkedIn: Rebecca Rhectorik

FREE RESOURCES:

Confidential Facebook group for Parents.

Blog of FREE Resources

Guide to WELLNESS – The Mindfulness Workbook

Book a FREE consultation with Rebecca

Hey, it's Cindy, send me a text, get in touch!

[FASHION] [MENSWEAR] [LUXURY]

[#20] In this episode of the Fearless Entrepreneurs Podcast, we meet Andrew Frank, the founder and CEO of Lingo Luxe Bespoke. Andrew shares how he built his luxury menswear brand from the ground up, emphasizing meticulous craftsmanship, personalized style, and ethical sourcing. He discusses his early influences, transition from a corporate career at Nike, and the challenges of entrepreneurship, including balancing family life as a father of three. Andrew also reflects on the importance of communication, the pitfalls of fast fashion, and his conscious choice to focus on sustainable and high-quality fabrics.

Company Website: Lingo Luxe Bespoke + Apium Apparel

Lingo Luxe Bespoke: 

IG: @lingoluxebespoke
FB: lingoluxebespoke
LinkedIn: Lingo Luxe Bespoke
 
Apium Apparel

IG: apiumapparel
FB: apiumapparel
LinkedIn: Apium Apparel

Book a FREE CONSULTATION with Andrew.

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