Episode #183: Ivan Jordovic
Ivan Jordovic: From Serbia to San Diego, Helping Businesses Save Big on Taxes with WestPac Wealth Partners Ivan Jordovic’s journey from a small town in Serbia to living his dream life in San Diego is nothing short of inspiring. After surviving cancer, overcoming visa struggles, and building his first business from scratch, Ivan now helps successful businesses reduce tax liabilities and keep more of their hard-earned money as a financial advisor with WestPac Wealth Partners. His story is one of resilience, trust, and entrepreneurial grit. Key Takeaways from Ivan’s Episode: Resilience in adversity: From battling cancer in 2014 to losing loved ones, Ivan rebuilt his life with a stronger mindset and determination. Winning the American Dream: Ivan and his wife won the U.S. Diversity Visa Lottery in 2017, leading them to start fresh in the United States with their baby daughter. Building from nothing: Landing in California with just $500 left after essentials, Ivan immediately took on two jobs and later launched a successful event planning company. Transition to finance: Through connections, Ivan joined WestPac Wealth Partners, passing four challenging exams in six months while working full-time and raising a family. Helping businesses thrive: His specialty lies in advanced retirement plans and tax-saving strategies for profitable businesses, turning financial stress into lasting freedom. Ready to be the CEO of your life? Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mFxoJXbgeg8 Memorable Quote: “The only thing we can control in our lives is how we react to things.” – Ivan Jordovic Want to be a Guest on our Show? Apply Now Connect with Ivan Linkedin
Episode #182: Keith Fix – Founder & CEO of RetailAware
Tania Khazaal (Tanya the Herbalist), CEO of Your Life Tania Khazaal—better known as Tanya the Herbalist—is a coach, creator, and community builder helping people reclaim health, purpose, and agency. After witnessing her mother’s decline on pharmaceuticals, Tania dove into herbalism, rebuilt her own well-being, and transformed a tea side-hustle into a seven-figure, mission-driven brand. Today, through CEO of Your Life and her She’s Empowered community, she champions faith, emotional resilience, and practical daily habits that create lasting change. In this episode, Tania shares how she shifted from corporate life and basement tea packing to digital products, courses, and coaching—while keeping her compass set on faith, family, and service. Her framework centers on four pillars (inner world/spirituality, lifestyle & well-being, relationships, and vision/legacy) and a deceptively simple cadence: 18 minutes a day. Top Takeaways From crisis to calling: Her mother’s health battle sparked a deep dive into herbalism and holistic healing, leading to a purpose-led business. Product → platform: Moving from physical teas to ebooks, funnels, and courses unlocked scale and financial freedom. Four-pillar operating system: Inner world (faith), health, relationships, and vision—progress across all four creates durable happiness. Relationships matter: She spotlights estrangement as a “silent epidemic” and teaches emotional regulation over cut-off culture. 18 minutes a day: Small, daily commitments compound to ~100 hours/year—enough to change your health, business, and life. Ready to be the CEO of your life? Watch the full episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=42QHMV4EYW0 (search: “Clicks and Bricks Tanya the Herbalist”) Memorable Quote: “You can literally change your entire life in 10 years with 18 minutes a day.” Want to be a Guest on our Show? Apply Now Connect with Tania Linkedin Instagram Facebook
Episode #177: Time Doctor – Liam Martin
Liam Martin of Time Doctor: Optimizing Remote Work Through Data and Grit Liam Martin, co-founder of Time Doctor, joined Clicks & Bricks Podcast to share his raw, real, and inspiring entrepreneurial journey—from college dropout to building one of the world’s most powerful remote work platforms. Based in Montreal, Liam is a data-driven leader on a mission to transform how we work in the digital age—and he’s not afraid to question everything along the way. Here are five key takeaways from the episode: Entrepreneurship isn’t a choice—it’s a calling. Liam describes it as something you do because nothing else fits. After being fired from almost every job, he found his place creating his own systems instead of living in someone else’s. Time Doctor was born from solving his own problem. While running a virtual tutoring business, Liam couldn’t track how long tutors were actually working—so he built a tool to fix that. Today, that tool is used by teams in 43+ countries. Remote work has permanently changed the game. Before the pandemic, 4.5% of the U.S. workforce was remote. Now it’s over 30%—and Liam says the best talent expects that flexibility. AI isn’t coming—it’s here. Time Doctor uses machine learning to analyze thousands of work patterns and offer actionable productivity insights. The company boasts the world’s largest second-by-second work database. High performers deserve freedom. Liam urges leaders to give their top 10% the space to thrive—even if that means 10 smoke breaks a day. “Measure output, not process.” Ready to dive into the future of remote work, entrepreneurship, and AI? Watch the full episode now at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yzeIeE4p32w Memorable Quote: If you’re not passionate about solving the problem, you’ll probably quit before the breakthrough. Want to be a Guest on our Show? Apply Now Connect with Liam Facebook Linkedin Globe
Episode #173: Weatherskin – Brandon Carbol
Brandon Carbol of Weatherskin: Innovating the Building Envelope with Smart Coatings Brandon Carbol, founder of Weatherskin Coatings, joins the Clicks & Bricks Podcast to share how a construction injury became the catalyst for launching one of Canada’s most exciting eco-conscious product lines. From being a hands-on home builder to innovating building protection systems, Brandon proves that adversity can fuel ingenuity—and that sustainable construction can scale. 5 Key Takeaways from Brandon’s Episode: Turn Setbacks Into Strategy: After a back injury forced him off job sites, Brandon doubled down on his creativity and launched Weatherskin to solve real-world construction challenges. Solutions Over Products: Weatherskin isn’t just selling coatings—it’s delivering smart, energy-efficient building solutions that protect structures and the environment. Start Local, Think Global: Brandon’s search for the right chemist led him around the world—only to discover the perfect partner was in his own city. Build the Team That Builds the Dream: Brandon credits a strong company culture and inclusive mindset for helping Weatherskin survive growing pains and scale quickly. Manufacture Smarter: He encourages founders to outsource manufacturing unless your in-house process adds unique value—like Shelby Mustangs or hand-stitched leather goods. Watch the full interview now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RQq20I0a–E Memorable Quote: “I always say: hire smarter than myself. That’s how we move the business forward.” Want to be a Guest on our Show? Apply Now Connect with Brandon Linkedin Globe
Episode #164: Crystal Lily Creative – Crystal
Guest Profile: Crystal Whittaker of Crystal Lily Creative — Championing Authentic Inclusion Through Branding Crystal Whittaker is the founder of Crystal Lily Creative, an inclusive branding consultancy built from the ground up with heart, purpose, and a powerful mission. After leaving the rigidity of corporate America, Crystal followed her passion for storytelling and social equity—first through photography, and eventually through guiding values-driven brands to show up authentically and inclusively. Her work empowers coaches, creatives, and conscious companies to lead with intention and create spaces that truly welcome everyone. 5 Key Takeaways from Crystal’s Episode: From Burnout to Breakthrough: Crystal left her corporate career feeling disconnected and soul-sucked—pivoting to a photography business that eventually morphed into a purpose-led branding consultancy. Inclusion is More Than a Buzzword: She educates businesses on real, values-based inclusion—not just performative marketing—helping leaders infuse DEI into their brand DNA. Equity ≠ Equality: Crystal gives a powerful explanation of the difference between equity and equality in business, emphasizing fairness over sameness. Mental Health Matters: Crystal opens up about her battle with situational depression and how having a support system, therapy, and mindfulness practices helped her heal and thrive. Simple Steps to Inclusive Language: From using team-based language to sharing your pronouns, Crystal shares actionable ways leaders can foster belonging through everyday communication. Don’t miss this deeply human and eye-opening conversation with Crystal Whittaker on Episode 164 of Clicks & Bricks Podcast. Watch the full episode now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RqYeIAettZQ Memorable Quote: “You are not required to be productive in order to have value. Take care of yourself first and foremost.” Want to be a Guest on our Show? Apply Now Connect with Crystal Facebook Linkedin Globe Instagram
Episode #162: Mcnally Recruitment – Steve McNally
From World Traveler to Recruitment Trailblazer: Steve McNally of McNally Recruitment Steve McNally, founder of McNally Recruitment, joins us from Scotland with an inspiring story of resilience, reinvention, and entrepreneurial grit. After spending over a decade traveling the world and teaching English abroad, Steve returned to his roots in recruitment and launched his own firm—proving that when you invest your time and money into something, you’re in it for the long haul. With decades of experience in IT and energy recruitment across the UK and beyond, Steve shares his unconventional journey from global educator to business owner, offering candid insights into hiring, growing a business from scratch, and staying the course even when things get tough. 5 Takeaways from Episode 162: Leap of Faith: Steve turned down a comfortable job offer to launch McNally Recruitment from his couch—with full support from his wife. Start Lean, Think Big: He launched the business with minimal spending and scaled slowly, focusing on sustainability over flash. Listen Over Sell: In sales and recruitment, Steve believes success comes from listening—not talking. Gut Over Résumé: When hiring, trust your instinct. People can learn skills, but attitude and potential are harder to teach. Invested Means Committed: Putting your own money and energy into a business makes quitting much harder—and success that much sweeter. Watch the full episode now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NIGQLZj-u3A Memorable Quote: “If you’re really dead set and determined to do something, then just go ahead and do it.” Want to be a Guest on our Show? Apply Now Connect with Steve Linkedin Globe
Episode #157: Founder of Serotonin Creative – Casey Hogue
Guest Spotlight: Casey Hogue – Founder of Serotonin Creative Meet Casey Hogue, the visionary founder of Serotonin Creative, a branding and creative consultancy driven by empathy, authenticity, and purpose. After nearly five years as a creative director at E. & J. Gallo Winery, Casey made a bold leap—leaving behind the security of corporate life to build a company that aligned with his passion for impactful storytelling and doing good in the world. With a unique blend of art school creativity and scientific curiosity, Casey brings a refreshing perspective to the modern marketing landscape. His mission? Help brands tap into their core values, build tribes, and create meaningful connections that inspire action. Key Takeaways from the Episode: Creativity over everything: Analytics are essential, but creativity is timeless and irreplaceable. “We’ve been creative for over 120,000 years… I’m taking creativity every time.” Start with why: Like Apple, the most successful brands don’t lead with features—they lead with values and vision. Know your tribe: Great marketing speaks to someone—and just as importantly, not to everyone. Marketing is neuroscience: Serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin—understanding human emotion is the key to effective branding. Web3 is a renaissance: NFTs and smart contracts are changing the game for creators—Casey believes this era is the “digital art renaissance.” Ready to dive in?Watch the full episode of Clicks & Bricks Podcast Ep. 157 with Casey Hogue and explore the future of branding, creativity, and digital innovation:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rG0Wal5q1MU Memorable Quote: “Creativity and communication are just fundamental human things… if you understand them well and do them right, everything else falls into place.” Want to be a Guest on our Show? Apply Now Connect with Casey Linkedin Globe
Episode #154: Spaces Taylored – Adam Taylor
Adam Taylor of Spaces Taylored: Designing Workspaces That Inspire Success Adam Taylor, founder of Spaces Taylored, joined Clicks & Bricks Podcast to share how he launched a business in the middle of the pandemic—and turned adversity into opportunity. Based in Scotland, Adam took a bold leap from being furloughed to building a company that transforms workspaces for collaboration, wellness, and productivity. From running marathons during lockdown to generating over £200K in revenue in his first year, Adam’s story is a powerful reminder that the right mindset can turn any moment into a launching pad. Top 5 Takeaways from Episode 154: Start Before You’re Ready: Adam founded Spaces Taylored with no concrete plan, just a drive to make it work. Workspace Wellness Matters: He believes that a productive office is one that supports mental health and team collaboration. Hybrid Work is Here to Stay: Designing flexible, functional office spaces is key to attracting and retaining top talent. Design Flaws Are Costly: Underutilized space is the #1 office design mistake businesses make today. Mindset Over Circumstance: From rock bottom to business owner, Adam proved that persistence beats uncertainty. Watch the Full Interview:Hear Adam’s full journey, office design tips, and entrepreneurial insights on YouTube now:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RqYeIAettZQ Memorable Quote: “If you want it, anything’s achievable—you’ve just got to keep pushing yourself and reach for the stars.” Want to be a Guest on our Show? Apply Now Connect with Adam Linkedin Globe
Episode #153: Express Employment Professionals – Brent Pollington
Guest Spotlight: Brent Pollington – Express Employment Professionals Vancouver Meet Brent Pollington, the Franchise Leader Driving Vancouver’s Hiring Game ForwardBrent Pollington isn’t just another franchise owner—he’s a powerhouse in Vancouver’s recruiting space. As the owner of Express Employment Professionals Vancouver, Brent broke even and saw profits within just six months of launching his franchise. How? Relentless hustle, deep industry expertise, and a systemized approach to hiring that sets his team apart. In Episode 153 of Clicks & Bricks, Brent opens up about the realities of owning a franchise, the mindset shift it takes to move from employee to business owner, and the extensive process his team uses to match top talent with the right opportunities. If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or business leader struggling with hiring, this episode is a must-watch. 5 Key Takeaways from Brent’s Episode: Hard work beats hype: Brent reached profitability fast, but only through 100+ door pulls per week and aggressive local outreach. The three pillars of hiring success: Recruiting, onboarding/training, and employee accountability all play critical roles in long-term staff retention. Franchising isn’t automatic success: Opening a franchise gives you the tools—but you still have to make the phone ring. Don’t under-hire: Brent shares how running lean backfired—and why he now believes in over-hiring for stability. Hiring is about systems, not just resumes: Soft skills, motivation, and the ability to learn often trump experience if you have the right internal training structure. Want to learn how Brent made it happen?Watch the full episode on YouTube now:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yxam17MIUA0 Memorable Quote: “Opening your doors doesn’t mean business will come—you’ve got to go out and get it.” Want to be a Guest on our Show? Apply Now Connect with Brent Facebook Linkedin Youtube
Episode #150: Beautiesltd.com – Greg Shugar
Greg Shugar of Beau Ties Ltd.: From Attorney to E-Commerce Trailblazer Greg Shugar is no stranger to reinvention. After leaving a stable career as an attorney, Greg became a pioneer in online menswear with The Tie Bar in 2004—before most people even trusted buying clothes online. Now the owner of Beau Ties Ltd. of Vermont, Greg has led two e-commerce brands to incredible growth through scrappy resilience, market intuition, and a commitment to adapting with the times. In this episode of Clicks & Bricks, Greg shares the inspiring journey of building a $19M-a-year business from his basement, selling it at the peak, and later buying a competitor just before the pandemic—and still growing 500% despite the chaos. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vTpFAPRQ9_E Episode Takeaways: Still growing & adapting: From tote bags to scarves, he’s now exploring how to evolve a men’s brand into a lifestyle brand for women—without losing the original customer.Started from a tie-ruined morning: The idea for his first business came from a ruined tie and the realization that neckwear didn’t need to be expensive. Built with zero funding: Greg bootstrapped the business with a $50k home equity loan—never raised or borrowed another penny. Pivoted hard during the pandemic: When bow tie sales disappeared, he shifted to masks and scaled production using old tie designs. Rebuilt with purpose: Greg rehired furloughed staff with earnings from mask sales and expanded the product line to serve a new female customer base. Still growing & adapting: From tote bags to scarves, he’s now exploring how to evolve a men’s brand into a lifestyle brand for women—without losing the original customer. Watch Greg’s full entrepreneurial journey and get inspired to make your next pivot: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vTpFAPRQ9_E Memorable Quote: “The number one attribute of any entrepreneur is being resourceful.” Want to be a Guest on our Show? Apply Now Connect with Greg Linkedin Globe