Short, engaging, information-filled talks and interviews with Firecircle's founders, members and tourism industry guests to bring you the stuff you may not know that you don't know - foundational knowledge for tourism entrepreneurs - igniting your passion, sparking your ideas and supporting you every step of the way.
On this episode, I’m joined by Brendan Riley, owner and operator of Marmora Retreat in Marmora, Ontario. Originally from South Africa, Brendan has called Canada home for nearly two decades, spending much of his career in real estate and property development in the Toronto area. During a family vacation, Brendan stumbled upon a piece of land that instantly spoke to him. That moment sparked his journey into glamping—and ultimately the creation of Marmora Retreat. Today, the retreat features thoughtfully designed geodesic dome accommodations for guests seeking a unique, immersive escape into nature. Brendan is a Firecircle alumnus who used the Firecircle 5x5 Method to clarify his vision, strengthen his business plan, and successfully access funding to support the expansion of his retreat. In this conversation, he shares his experience with the Firecircle program and how having a clear, well-developed plan helped him turn an idea into a growing, sustainable business. You can experience the results of Brendan’s vision firsthand by booking a stay in one of Marmora Retreat’s Sky View or Boho Luxe glamping domes. Learn more at www.marmoraretreat.ca and follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/marmora.retreat/ If you have an idea you’re ready to bring to life, or you’re looking to expand or reimagine an existing business, Firecircle can help. Our comprehensive, easy-to-use digital business planning programs, one-to-one expert mentorship, and supportive community of fellow entrepreneurs are here to support you every step of the way. Learn more at www.thefirecircle.ca.
12 Dec 2025
Deliciously Messy with Lejla Pekaric
In this episode, I sit down with Lejla Pekaric, a business mentor on Firecircle’s Ignite team. Though Lejla began her career in accounting, her work has evolved into executive coaching, organizational systems development, and much more. She shares how that transition unfolded—and why she’s drawn to tackling big, complex challenges. Despite a busy professional life, Lejla has made space for public speaking, creative writing, and even launching a small farm that promotes healthy eating and helps people reconnect with where their food comes from. Lejla also highlights the importance of building a supportive team of professionals around your business long before you think you’ll need them. Connect with Lejla and explore her work at www.lejla.ca and www.kolibriconsulting.ca If you have tourism business dreams but feel overwhelmed by the journey, Firecircle is here to help with easy-to-use, step-by-step programs and one-to-one mentorship from our incredible team of mentors. Learn more at www.thefirecircle.ca.
17 Oct 2025
Building a Team with Pamela Joy Howse
On this episode, I sit down with Pamela Joy Howse, owner and operator of The Spa at Halcyon, near Nakusp, BC. Pamela describes herself as a natural helper—someone who truly loves taking care of people, and it shows in the spa’s wide range of multi-disciplinary treatments and services.
Over the years, Pamela has worked hard to build, retain, and motivate a talented team that helps her business shine. As a business owner, she’s equally committed to caring for her team as she is for her clients. In our conversation, Pamela shares how she nurtures both, and how she’s expanding her spa’s offerings to support wellness in body, mind, and spirit.
If you or someone you know would love to be pampered while pampering others, reach out to Pamela through her website to learn more about employment opportunities: https://thespaathalcyon.ca (https://thespaathalcyon.ca)
If you have a tourism business dream that you’d like to bring to life, you can get expert support by joining the Firecircle at www.thefirecircle.ca/memberships (http://www.thefirecircle.ca/memberships).
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