Episodes

  • From journalism to content creation: Kaitlin Narciso on the growth of Streets of Toronto and the evolving media landscape.
    Apr 11 2024

    In this episode, Kaitlin Narciso discusses her journey from journalism to content creation, the evolution of Streets of Toronto, and navigating the shift from traditional to digital media. The conversation also covers creator anxiety, content organization, and the intersection of journalism and content \creation. The future of Toronto, its comparison to other cities, and the impact of changing business landscapes are explored. Lastly, Kaitlin introduces Drop Creative Agency and her series "My Niagara".

    Key Points

    - Kaitlin, the guest on the podcast, emphasizes the importance of having a clear outline when telling a story, as it helps in maintaining the core message amidst an abundance of content.

    - Streets of Toronto, where Kaitlin works, is focusing on community engagement through events and has plans to launch their own beer in collaboration with a brewery and host a dumpling festival.

    - Kaitlin discusses the blurred lines between content creation and journalism, noting that individuals on platforms like TikTok who are dedicated to sharing news and facts can be considered journalists in their own right.

    Chapters

    0:00 Introduction of Kaitlin Narciso and discussion on her transition from journalism to content creation

    6:27 Balancing emotional and superficial content and the growth of Streets of Toronto

    16:30 Transition from traditional to digital media revenue streams and Instagram monetization

    24:19 Dealing with creator anxiety, organizing content, and tools for content editing

    29:04 The blurred line between content creation and journalism, and the role of traditional journalism

    35:09 Future plans for Toronto and its growth over the last decade

    41:52 Comparing Toronto to other cities and the convenience of its facilities

    45:32 Impact of disappearing businesses on routines and fast food preferences

    51:20 Introduction to Drop Creative Agency and hosting "My Niagara" series

    Show more Show less
    53 mins
  • Exploring arcana and arhome with Co-Founder Felicia Snyder
    Feb 21 2024

    In this episode, guest Felicia Snyder discusses her design-driven experiential hospitality business, arcana. She also delves into the creation of arhome, their modern prefabricated cabin. We discuss the impact of nature and wellness routines, arcana's team, and their team’s past success with Tokyo Smoke.

    Check out arcana's website

    Learn more about arhome

    Show more Show less
    37 mins
  • Get Inspired: Chloe Wilde - From Ph.D. to TV Star to Entrepreneur
    Jun 7 2023

    Join us for an inspiring episode as we delve into the life of Chloe "Doctor" Wilde, a remarkable woman who has managed to ignite a health revolution while simultaneously renovating a schoolhouse in the countryside and pursuing a successful career as a TV host. Chloe exudes charisma and inspiration while captivating us with her incredible journey.


    Discover the roots of her upbringing in a small town, her breakthrough into the media industry following her victory in the MuchMusic VJ Search, and the challenges she faced with her mental health during her academic pursuits. Through it all, Chloe has cultivated her experiences into a thriving lifestyle health and coaching brand known as Healthy is Hot!

    As our conversation unfolds, Nelson finds himself persuaded to embark on a cold plunge adventure, while Casie effortlessly delves into the topic of health, a subject she has been passionately exploring lately. With their unique blend of entertainment, Cast of Creators keeps us captivated throughout the episode.

    From the intriguing tales of renovating a schoolhouse in the countryside to Nelson's unexpected foray into Wayfair protection plans (typical Nelson!), this delightful episode offers a diverse range of content that caters to everyone's interests. Tune in and be inspired by Chloe's extraordinary journey and engaging discussions.

    "When you go in without a plan and then you're stuck in a corner you have no choice but to just sit and cry – or to get up and make a plan." ~ Chloe Wilde


    In This Episode:

    - Three months of renovations on a schoolhouse

    - Hacking the Airbnb algorithm

    - Growing up in a small town

    - Putting on a mask to deal with your mental health struggles

    - Becoming a VJ on a reality TV show

    - Chloe breaks through into media as a MuchMusic VJ

    - Unpacking the awesome 'Healthy is Hot'

    - The benefits of cold plunges & cold water therapy

    And so much more!


    Table of Contents:

    0:00 Introduction of Chloe Wilde and her journey into content creation

    1:18 The challenges and rewards of transforming a schoolhouse into a home

    4:12 Financial implications and planning of owning and operating an Airbnb

    10:37 Utilizing social media and promotional strategies to boost Airbnb bookings

    14:26 Chloe Wilde's journey from Quebec to Toronto and the transformation of Hudson

    17:39 Nelson B. Thall shares his experiences in Dubai and the thriving Airbnb business there

    21:04 Chloe Wilde's transition from studying neuroscience to the entertainment industry

    24:10 Chloe Wilde's struggle with mental health and the support system

    31:46 Beginning of Chloe Wilde's Healthy is Hot initiative

    39:03 Casie Stewart and Chloe Wilde discuss their experiences with cold dipping

    45:57 Chloe Wilde's closing remarks


    Connect with Chloe Wilde:

    - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thechloewilde/

    - Link Tree - https://linktr.ee/thechloewilde



    Cast of Creators

    - http://castofcreators.com

    - https://www.instagram.com/castofcreators/

    -

    Show more Show less
    46 mins
  • Healthy Eating for Busy Lifestyles with Zehra Allibhai
    May 17 2023

    Zehra Allibhai is a Fitness Coach, Kinesiologist, and owner of TheFitNest – an online space for women and families to connect and share ideas and inspiration on how to live the healthiest life possible.

    Zehra has been in the health and fitness industry for over 15 years, and her true passion lies in helping women feel strong and confident in their own skin. She saw an opportunity to introduce more flavor into the fitness industry (rather than just counting calories) with her healthy recipes that allow working moms and others with busy schedules to incorporate her meal ideas into their active lifestyles.

    TheFitNest has an online shop, fitness challenges, and in-depth blog articles in what is a wonderful expression of Zehra's relatable passion for wellness, community, motherhood, and more.

    Combining food and fitness in the right way is what this mouthwatering episode of Cast of Creators is all about. No need to count your calories here – Nelson, Casie, and Zehra will leave you salivating for healthy foods that you can integrate into your meal routine and fitness regime.


    (on her new book) "It's called Bismillah – Let's Eat. It's something that we say all the time, and as Muslims, you say Bismillah before you kinda start anything. It's like, 'I begin in the name of God,' and it's something I grew up doing, and it's something I do with my kids and my family. Anything you do, doing it with intention." ~ Zehra Allibhai



    In This Episode:


    - Zehra shares her passion for cooking – and her new book (Bismillah - Let's Eat)!

    - Appreciating East African food

    - Do Zehra's fitness clients become foodies thanks to her?

    - The value of fitness transformation

    - Zehra's family background and becoming a kinesiologist

    - Understanding a fitness client's 'Why?'

    - Skipping! So great!

    - What's the most amount of weight Zehra has ever helped a client lose?

    - Recipe testing ahead of Zehra's book being published!


    And so much more!


    Connect with Zehra Allibhai:

    - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/zallibhai/

    - TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@zallibhai

    - YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheFitNest

    - Website - https://thefitnest.ca/



    Cast of Creators

    http://castofcreators.com

    https://www.instagram.com/castofcreators/

    https://www.twitter.com/castofcreators/

    https://www.facebook.com/castofcreators/


    Hosts

    Nelson Instagram

    Show more Show less
    42 mins
  • Wine Tasting 101 with Sommelier Renée Sferrazza
    May 3 2023

    Renée Sferrazza is a true connoisseur of wine - a writer, host, and sommelier whose passion for grapes and the delicious nectar they produce is a lifelong dedication. As the founder of @WinebyRenee, one of the largest social media accounts in Canada dedicated to wine, Renée has established herself as a prominent figure in the industry.


    Renée's innovative concept of 'academic drinking' is at the forefront of today's episode of Cast of Creators, where the crew is privileged to learn a thing or two about vino. We discover that the Ontario red wine we're tasting is best enjoyed at room temperature, perfectly paired with duck or light meat, and of course, shared with good company.

    This content is a feast for the senses, from delightful "champagneskis" to the finest proseccos, exciting global travels to living in Italy, and heartfelt industry shoutouts to actual wine tastings. It is sure to tantalize your palate and leave you thirsting for more.



    "I like to do something called academic drinking. I'll walk you all through it right now." ~ Renée Sferrazza



    In This Episode:

    - Who are the Greek and Roman gods and goddesses of wine?

    - What are the different categories of wine experts?

    - What are the different levels of wine interest?

    - Why you don't need a wine aerator

    - What is academic drinking? 'Diving into the glass'

    - What would you pair a cabernet franc with?

    - Appreciating good terroir and its impact on wine taste

    - The difference between champagne and sparkling wine

    - How did Renée turn her wine enthusiasm into a career?

    - Why the wine industry is a tough business to work in

    - What happened when the pandemic hit?

    - Creating quality content: Wine by Renée

    - Does vacation wine actually taste better?

    - Can you get drunk at wine tastings?

    - How Renée makes notes on the wine she tastes

    - Food strategies for wine pairing


    And so much more!


    Resources:

    - Ontario Wine Tasted - 2019 Cabernet Franc Réserve du Domaine https://queylus.com


    Connect with Renée Sferrazza:

    - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wine.by.renee/

    - Website - https://reneesferrazza.com/

    - Links - https://www.liinks.co/wine.by.renee


    Connect with Kaye Parker:

    - TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kayeparkerofficial?lang=e

    - Instagram -

    Show more Show less
    55 mins
  • Stripping Away Shame with Jacqui Childs
    Apr 26 2023

    Get ready for the juiciest episode of Cast of Creators yet! Join guest host Kaye Parker as she teams up with Nelson and Casie to chat with the fascinating author, influencer, and entrepreneur, Jacqui Childs.


    Jacqui shares it all as she talks about her incredible life journey, from her early days running a daycare to modelling, and almost becoming the face of Cougar Life. She opens up about her marriage, relationships, and the hard-earned life truths that have helped her become the inspiring woman she is today.


    With authenticity at the forefront, Jacqui talks about the power of vulnerability and breaking free from shame. She shares how she manages to be smart, funny, and sexy all at once, and what it takes to stop worrying about ‘The Joneses’ and start living life on your own terms.

    In this episode, we dive into Jacqui's experience on OF and her recent bipolar diagnosis during COVID. You don’t want to miss a single moment of this steamy, thought-provoking conversation. Tune in now and discover how you can have it all!


    "What would I tell myself back then? Stop worrying about THEM. It doesn't matter. And never mind keeping up with the Joneses or trying to please the Joneses. You're past the Joneses." ~ Jacqui Childs


    In This Episode:

    - What's it like being on OF?

    - Do her online relationships get too heavy?

    - Why Jacqui couldn't celebrate her early success

    - Pole dancing, what a workout

    - The power of showing people how to get out of shame

    - Being all the things: smart, funny, and sexy

    - Jacqui on almost being the face of Cougar Life

    - Jacqui's husband and how he oversees her brand

    - Being diagnosed as bipolar during COVID



    Resources:

    - Casie’s Sunshine Girls pic - http://canadablogfriends.ca/tag/sunshine-girl/


    Connect with Jacqui Childs:

    - LinkTree - https://linktr.ee/jacquichilds



    Connect with Kaye Parker:

    - TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@kayeparkerofficial?lang=e

    - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kayeparkerofficial/?hl=en

    - Hvr - https://pubhvr.page.link/eLCc



    Cast of Creators

    http://castofcreators.com

    https://www.instagram.com/castofcreators/

    https://www.twitter.com/castofcreators/

    https://www.facebook.com/castofcreators/


    Hosts

    Nelson Instagram

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 26 mins
  • Live Art, Love, & Breathwork
    Apr 19 2023

    What happens when you get 45 people to breathe in unison? Allow Jessica Gorlicky to describe it for you! Jessica is a high-energy performance artist/live painter who has learned to use art as a therapeutic tool throughout her life.

    She's in the Hvr studio today with Nelson and Casie, sharing how she got into art as a child (thanks, Bob Ross!), how she came to enjoy it as a career, and how painting massive murals has afforded her the privilege of traveling the world.

    Listening to Jessica is goosebumps-giving stuff as she also reveals the pain of her divorce and how she used her 'Fuck I Love You' stencil graffiti campaign as a love gift – to heal herself and to put more beauty out into the world.


    This episode has sound baths and mismatched socks, joy, and some heartache. Please join us on an episode of Cast of Creators that leave you with a high vibe!



    "The amount of years and work and hours we have all fought to have access to what we want to provide for this world, that's a heavy topic right there. It's huge. We've hustled hard. We keep hustling. It doesn't stop." ~ Jessica Gorlicky


    In This Episode:

    - When did Jessica realize she could draw? Being inspired by Bob Ross

    - What do you know about life - and making life decisions - at 17?

    - How Casie used to choose her own outfits for school as a child

    - Why jazz is a wild beast and keeps the heart rate racing

    - Jessica's wellness routine of breathwork and sound baths (Twilight Tuesday)

    - How did Jessica get into live painting and performance art?

    - What happens when you get 45 people to breathe in unison?

    - Jessica's impressive world travels as a live painter

    - 'How do you know when you are ready to show all your work to the world?'

    - Jessica recalls her first sale

    - What is the largest piece Jessica has ever painted?

    - Understanding the message of 'Fuck I Love You'

    - How Jessica processed her divorce

    - Jessica's new home/studio/wellness retreat


    And so much more!


    Connect with Jessica:

    - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/jessgo333/?hl=en

    - Website - http://jessgo.com/

    - Store - https://jessgoboutique.com/

    - Fuck I Love You Movement - https://fuckiloveyoumovement.com/


    Cast of Creators

    - http://castofcreators.com

    - https://www.instagram.com/castofcreators/

    - https://www.twitter.com/castofcreators/

    -

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 2 mins
  • RAXX: Female Rapper on the Rise
    Apr 12 2023

    RAXX is a Toronto based rapper and songwriter who grew up in snowy Collingwood. She’s now blowing up in Toronto/LA with her authentic style and unique sound.

    RAXX joins Casie and Nelson in the Hvr studio and they’re freestyling as per usual about everything from Nelson’s dietary whims to Casie’s detective skills when it comes to outing a troll.


    In between, RAXX chats about producing music videos, making a great EPK (Electronic Press Kit), and how to make the most of TikTok and social media as you build your career.


    There’s also a sprinkling of AI and ChatGPT, transforming poetry into rap songs, and deep fake videos.


    RAXX is super relaxed with great energy and is beautifully engaging!


    “There’s always this image of what a female rapper is supposed to be, right? So I think it’s nice to be authentic to yourself, and really speak about things that we go through as women — because there needs to be a voice for that.” ~ RAXX


    In This Episode:

    - Growing up on the ski slopes of Collingwood

    - Starting as a SoundCloud rapper (not being taken too seriously)

    - Nelson’s ‘mod’ diet — is he a salad guy?

    - Where does RAXX find her inspiration?

    - Making sure your EPK (Electronic Press Kit) looks good

    - What does a rap battle involve?

    - Exposing your vulnerabilities as an artist

    - Detective Casie defeats the online trolls!

    - Why there’s more ego in the industry now thanks to TikTok

    - How Casie is embracing ChatGPT

    - Should you register your own OnlyFans handle?

    - RAXX’s upcoming shows and future plans


    And so much more!


    Connect with RAXX:

    - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/raxxofficialmusic/

    - TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@raxxofficialmusic

    - THIC CHIC - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BqN4IvXg4XA

    - Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/6U3kdHwj6YXCl9IqSLoOPf?si=iRhQVMk3RLKZXXtA0YEq1g



    Cast of Creators

    - http://castofcreators.com

    - https://www.instagram.com/castofcreators/

    - https://www.twitter.com/castofcreators/

    • https://www.facebook.com/castofcreators/


    Hosts

    - Nelson Instagram

    Show more Show less
    55 mins