How to make it in Toronto

Hosted by Karl Shams

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Latest episode

Jul 2026

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EN-CA

About the show

Your destination for insightful tips, strategies, and success stories in Toronto & around the world. Join us and obtain important nuggets of information that we can use as we chart our own path to success 💡 Each episode will provide: - 3 Key takeaways that help you overcome obstacles, develop the right mindset as well as work ethic, and finally the skills required to be successful - People struggle with where to start. We'll share the best place/way to start your journey. - The best resources recommended by our guests as well as some sourced by us to help guide you on your path to success.

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54 recent

October 24, 20261 hr 1 min

From Entry-Level to CEO: Lisa Somers on Scaling a $35M+ Business, Leadership & Building Income Streams

What does it really take to build a successful business, grow into a leadership role, and create more freedom over your time? In this episode of How to Make It in Toronto , Karl sits down with Lisa Somers, CEO of Marketplace SuperHeroes, to explore her journey from studying psychology to becoming a leader in online business and e-commerce. After joining her brother’s company in an entry-level role, Lisa learned by solving problems, developing new skills, and taking on greater responsibility as the business grew beyond $35 million in revenue. Lisa shares practical lessons on scaling a business, building high-performing remote teams, hiring the right people, and knowing when to invest in new growth opportunities. She also explains why perseverance, communication, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace discomfort can make a difference in your career. The conversation explores how Marketplace SuperHeroes approached live-stream selling on Whatnot as a new revenue opportunity, why entrepreneurs should validate ideas before chasing trends, and how AI is changing expectations in the workplace. Lisa also offers a refreshing perspective on success, explaining why having control over your time, maintaining your integrity, and building a fulfilling life matter just as much as financial milestones. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, business owner, ambitious professional, or someone looking to develop an additional income stream, this episode offers valuable insights you can apply to your own journey. IN THIS EPISODE: How Lisa went from an entry-level role to CEO without a business degree Why creating value and continuously learning can accelerate your career The realities of scaling a business beyond $35 million in revenue How to build and manage a remote international team Why hiring the right people and avoiding unnecessary complexity matter How to evaluate new business opportunities and avoid shiny-object syndrome The role of AI, communication, and adaptability in the modern workplace How to build success around freedom, integrity, and quality of life CONNECT WITH LISA & MARKETPLACE SUPERHEROES Website: https://marketplacesuperheroes.com/start Instagram: @itslisasomers Facebook: Search for Lisa Somers YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketplaceSuperHeroesofficial FREE RESOURCE: GO LIVE GET PAID Want to explore live-stream selling and learn how Marketplace SuperHeroes developed a new revenue stream through Whatnot? Check out their free Go Live Get Paid training and accompanying guide. Watch the free training: https://vimeo.com/1182911149?fl=ls&fe=ec Download the free guide: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1JdaKCq3m1Jx9JNalhUZUys1_pnxF9AAb/view?usp=drive_link Learn more about Marketplace SuperHeroes and its educational resources at https://marketplacesuperheroes.com/start If you enjoy the episode, subscribe to How to Make It in Toronto for more conversations about entrepreneurship, leadership, personal development, and building a successful career. We're in this together.

July 19, 20263 min

How Steven Bartlett Built a Global Empire | From University Dropout to One of the World's Biggest Podcasters

What does it really take to build a global business, become one of the world's most influential podcasters, and inspire millions of entrepreneurs? In this episode of How to Make It in Toronto , we explore the incredible journey of Steven Bartlett —entrepreneur, investor, bestselling author, and host of The Diary of a CEO . From dropping out of university to co-founding Social Chain, launching FlightStory, investing in groundbreaking companies, and building one of the world's most successful business podcasts, Steven's story is a masterclass in resilience, curiosity, and long-term thinking. In this episode you'll discover: • How Steven Bartlett got started in business • Why he chose entrepreneurship over university • How he built Social Chain into a global company • The challenges and failures he faced along the way • How he launched FlightStory and transformed Diary of a CEO into a worldwide phenomenon • The mindset, habits, books, mentors, and resources that helped him succeed • Actionable lessons every entrepreneur can apply to their own journey Whether you're building your first business, growing your personal brand, or searching for inspiration to take the next step, Steven Bartlett's journey proves that success isn't about having all the answers—it's about continuously learning, adapting, and taking action. 🎙 Subscribe to How to Make It in Toronto for more interviews, success stories, and practical strategies from world-class entrepreneurs, innovators, and industry leaders.

May 31, 202643 min

AI, College Planning & Financial Aid: What Every Student and Parent Needs to Know | Howard Freedman

Artificial Intelligence is transforming the future of education and careers faster than ever. So how should students and families prepare? In this episode of How to Make It , returning guest Howard Freedman , financial aid professional and college planning expert, shares powerful insights on how AI is reshaping a student’s academic path, career opportunities, and the college experience. Howard explains why it's never too early to start planning for college , how families can reduce financial stress , and what students can do today to build a strong foundation for the future. We also discuss practical strategies to help students manage the emotional pressure of college planning , navigate uncertainty, and make confident decisions about their education. Whether you're a student, parent, or young professional thinking about higher education, this conversation will give you the tools to plan smarter in a rapidly changing world. In this episode we cover: • How AI will impact future careers and college majors • Why early college planning can save families thousands • Hidden financial aid opportunities many families miss • How students can reduce college stress and pressure • The mindset students need to succeed in an AI-driven future 🎧 Subscribe to How to Make It for conversations with entrepreneurs, leaders, and experts sharing real strategies for success.

April 1, 202653 min

The #1 Mistake Founders Make in Marketing (And How to Fix It)

In today’s crowded digital world, attention is everywhere — but connection is rare . In this episode of How to Make it in Toronto , we sit down with John Elbing , Chief Storybuilder Officer and creator of the Storybuilding methodology, to break down how founders and entrepreneurs can build brands that actually connect, convert, and grow. With experience coaching over 150 startups and companies, John shares why most businesses get storytelling wrong — and how shifting your focus from your story to your customer’s story can completely transform your marketing. We dive into: The 3-step framework every customer goes through before buying Why niching down is the fastest way to grow The difference between attention vs. real engagement Common storytelling mistakes founders make How to create messaging that drives emotion, trust, and action If you’re an entrepreneur, content creator, or business professional looking to stand out in a competitive market, this episode will give you practical tools to refine your message and grow your brand. 🎯 Whether you're building a startup, scaling a business, or growing a personal brand — this conversation will change how you think about marketing. Connect with John: Website: standpoint.ch Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/elbing

March 22, 20261 hr 2 min

The Marketing Strategy That Landed Jerry Seinfeld | Institute of Wow Founder John Dwyer

How do you convince Jerry Seinfeld to headline a direct-response marketing campaign for a bank — and then use it to smash sales records? In this episode of How to Make It , we sit down with John Dwyer, founder of the Institute of Wow — a company known for highly creative customer attraction strategies that deliver measurable results. John breaks down: What Direct-Response Marketing really is The Problem/Solution formula that works across industries Why Incentive-Based Marketing outperforms discounting How he landed Jerry Seinfeld for a record-breaking campaign The biggest obstacles business owners face — and how to overcome them How to build confidence, resilience, and long-term success If you’re an entrepreneur, business owner, or marketing professional looking for practical strategies to increase sales and stand out in a crowded marketplace, this episode delivers powerful insights you can apply immediately. 🔗 Resources & Links Mentioned Vacation Promo (Incentive-Based Marketing): https://vacationsincentive.com/ Contest Leads Machine: https://contestleadsmachine.com/ Main Website: https://theinstituteofwow.com/ Jerry Seinfeld Case Study: https://theinstituteofwow.com/seinfield-and-jd/ Dreams Can Come True TV Show: https://theinstituteofwow.com/wow-tv-show/ Subscribe to How to Make It for more conversations with high performers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders sharing real strategies for success.

March 11, 202651 min

AI, College Planning & Financial Aid: What Every Student and Parent Needs to Know | Howard Freedman

February 10, 20261 min

The Future of Work: How to Stay Relevant and Lead in 2026 and Beyond

The future of work is changing faster than ever — and those who adapt early will lead. In this episode of How to Make it in Toronto , we break down what it takes to stay relevant and successful in 2026 and beyond. From working smarter with AI, to building attention through content, networking with intention, and creating habits that drive consistency and execution, this episode is a practical guide for entrepreneurs, professionals, creators, and ambitious individuals. You’ll learn: How to use AI as leverage instead of fearing it Why attention is the new resume How to network authentically in the modern era The habits that separate high performers from everyone else If you’re serious about building a future-proof career or business, this episode is for you.

January 8, 20264 min

New Year Goal Execution Framework for Entrepreneurs | Stop Setting Goals, Start Winning

Most people set New Year goals. Very few actually execute them. In this episode of How to Make it in Toronto , we break down a proven New Year Goal Execution Framework designed specifically for entrepreneurs, creators, and high performers who want real results—not just motivation. You’ll learn how to: Set fewer, smarter goals that actually move the needle Turn big ideas into daily and weekly execution Build systems that create consistency (even when motivation fades) Eliminate distractions, overwhelm, and burnout Use 90-day sprints to stay focused all year Think and act like a high-performing CEO of your own life and business Whether you’re building a business, growing your brand, or leveling up personally, this episode will help you start the year with clarity, structure, and confidence . Because success doesn’t come from knowing what to do— It comes from doing it consistently . 🎧 Tune in and start executing. For downloadable worksheet DM us on IG @how.tomake.it.in.toronto

December 10, 20253 min

The Rise of Aliko Dangote: How Africa’s Richest Man Built a Global Empire

In this episode of How to Make it in Toronto , we break down the extraordinary journey of Aliko Dangote — Africa’s richest man and one of the most influential industrialists in modern history . From starting with a small $3,000 loan to building Dangote Industries , a multi-billion-dollar empire spanning cement, sugar, flour, oil, and infrastructure, Dangote’s story is filled with powerful lessons for entrepreneurs worldwide. We explore: How Dangote’s early life in Kano shaped his entrepreneurial mindset The education and knowledge that helped him build generational success The strategic shift from trading to manufacturing that transformed African industry The biggest obstacles he faced — and how he overcame them What makes Dangote unique, resilient, and globally influential The key resources and decisions that fueled his rise to the top This episode gives entrepreneurs a real blueprint for success: how to think bigger, adapt faster, reinvest smarter, and build something that lasts. If you’re looking for motivation, clarity, and a masterclass in long-term success, this episode will inspire you to build your own empire — starting today.

November 27, 20253 min

Top 3 Habits of Entrepreneurs Who Change the World

Success isn’t built overnight — it’s built through habits. In this episode of How to Make It in Toronto , we break down the Top 3 Habits of Entrepreneurs Who Change the World and explore how small, powerful changes in your routine can transform your business, your mindset, and your life. You’ll learn: 🔥 Why ruthless clarity creates unstoppable direction 🔥 How consistency becomes a long-term competitive advantage 🔥 Why adaptability is the true superpower of high-performing entrepreneurs Whether you’re running a business, building a personal brand, or striving to level up in life, these habits will help you stay focused, improve your discipline, and execute your goals with confidence. Tune in, take notes, and start building the habits that shape world-class success.