Real Connections: CAWEE Voices
Episode Summary In this conversation, host , The Pink Coach, sits down with of Heart of Networking to unpack what it actually takes to build a strong network that leads to real opportunities. They talk about moving away from transactional, awkward networking and toward a relationship first approach that feels natural, confident, and consistent. You will hear practical ways to start better conversations, follow up without feeling salesy, and become the person people remember and refer. Key Takeaways Relationships before referrals: The most effective networking is built on trust, consistency,...
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Episode Summary In this episode, sits down with , portrait photographer and owner of Your Eye On Photo (Scarborough, Ontario), to talk about what really goes into a great photoshoot—long before the camera clicks. Desiree shares why preparation matters, how styling and branding shape the final images, and practical posing tips that instantly make self-portraits and headshots feel more flattering and confident. Key Takeaways Preparation is everything: A pre-shoot consultation helps plan wardrobe, styling, and the overall goal of the session. Branding goes beyond logos: For...
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Episode 21: Demystifying Estate Planning with Andreea Vladescu Episode Summary Estate planning is one of those things many of us delay — until it becomes urgent. In this episode, speaks with , about the essentials: what a will does, what probate means, and how Canadians can plan ahead to reduce stress, costs, and confusion for their loved ones. Key Takeaways ● Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy or elderly. Any adult can benefit from a plan. ● A will is a must — especially with minor children. It lets you name an executor and choose a guardian. ● Probate can be costly and...
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Episode Summary Certified Professional Accountant breaks down the must-have features of small-business accounting software and how the right stack can save time, reduce errors, and keep you compliant. From invoicing and expense tracking to payroll, reporting, and cloud access, Andreea explains what to look for, what to avoid, and how to budget smartly (including hidden fees and scalability). She also compares leading platforms - QuickBooks Online, Xero, FreshBooks, and Wave - and shares practical guidance on onboarding your team, integrating tools (payments/CRM/inventory/tax), and...
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Episode Summary In this conversation, host sits down with Realtor to explore practical, non-traditional paths to homeownership - especially for people navigating major life changes. Drawing on a background in business, law, and executive roles in healthcare, Robyn shares why she and her business partner focus on clients in transition (divorce, bankruptcy/proposal, new-to-Canada, self-employed) and how programs like rent-to-own can bridge the gap when a conventional mortgage isn’t an option. She also makes the case for working with specialists who understand complex scenarios -...
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Episode Summary In this episode, host sits down with , also known as The Pink Coach, for a powerful conversation on building authentic connections and lasting confidence in business. Claudine shares her journey as a coach and entrepreneur, highlighting how mindset, self-awareness, and community support shape professional success. She discusses the importance of creating meaningful relationships rather than transactional ones, and how women in business can embrace their personal style and story to stand out while staying true to themselves. Tune in for practical advice on...
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Guest: , Founder & Chief Travel Designer at Host: , CDC Divorce Transition and Recovery Coach In this jet-setter's dream episode, travel designer and entrepreneur Leila Lavaee shares her expert strategies for seeing the world without draining your wallet. With journeys to over 80 countries under her belt, Leila helps clients travel with intention, meaning, and ease. 💼 Whether you’re booking a family getaway, romantic escape, or a business trip, this episode is full of real talk and practical tips you can use now. 🌍 Highlights include: Why flexibility is your...
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In this eye-opening episode, host Wendy Rovers, talks to about the real-world impact of ADHD on professionals, especially women navigating fast-paced work and life transitions. Joanna brings warmth, clarity, and deep expertise as she breaks down what ADHD actually is (hint: it’s not just about attention). A certified coach, she works with overwhelmed professionals to help them move past cycles of self-doubt, disorganization, and procrastination. 🧠 In this episode, we cover: What ADHD is (and isn't) Common myths and misconceptions How ADHD shows up as executive...
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In this episode, we hear from , Realtor, who’s on a mission to help more Ontarians move from renting to owning - with confidence. Together with her partner Cheryl, Robyn supports first-time homebuyers, newcomers, and families facing credit or financial challenges. Their not-so-secret weapon? Ownable - a rent-to-own model reimagined for today’s market. 💬 In this conversation: Why the term “rent to own” needed a rebrand Who qualifies for Ownable (there are 5 key buyer profiles!) How Ownable helps clients lock in a home and a price, even if they’re not mortgage-ready today...
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This week, host from Kaos Group sits down with , a Certified Financial Planner from Thunder Bay who specializes in helping independent women take charge of their money. Millie brings both warmth and wisdom to financial planning, making it feel like less of a chore and more of an empowering conversation. Topics covered: When to seek financial planning (hint: any “oh sh*t” moment counts) Big transitions: marriage, divorce, job change, death, empty nest Why insurance isn't for you - it's for those left behind The stages of planning: from cash flow to legacy The Living Plan Snapshot...
info_outlineIn this episode of the CAWEE podcast, host Vriti Panwar sits down with Francine Dick, financial and insurance advisor at Cartier Wealth Management with over 25 years of experience. Francine shares her inspiring journey of transitioning careers, from photography to financial services, while raising three children as a single mom.
Francine discusses her book Enjoy Your Latte: A Financial Advisor’s Simple Guide to Canadian Money Basics and Designing a Better Life and provides actionable tips to help women overcome their fear of money, take control of their finances, and make confident decisions. From creating a budget to balancing short-term enjoyment with long-term security, Francine’s insights are empowering and practical.
Timestamps:
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00:00 - Introduction to Francine Dick
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01:30 - Francine’s journey to financial advising
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03:00 - Addressing women’s fear and shame around money
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06:00 - Balancing present enjoyment with future planning
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08:30 - Budgeting tips for 2025
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10:00 - The importance of taking small, consistent steps
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11:15 - Fun rapid-fire questions with Francine
Key Takeaways:
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Overcome Money Shame: Small steps and knowledge can help women regain control and confidence over their finances.
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Budget and Track Spending: Use spreadsheets or apps to understand where your money goes and identify areas for improvement.
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Balance Now and Later: Prioritize enjoying life today while planning for future security by paying yourself first.
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Be Intentional: Making financial resolutions, doing your taxes, and setting goals can have a transformative impact.
Grab a copy of Francine’s book, Enjoy Your Latte: A Financial Advisor’s Simple Guide to Canadian Money Basics and Designing a Better Life, on Amazon!
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Credits:
Hosted by Vriti Panwar. Special thanks to Francine Dick for sharing her expertise and inspiring financial confidence among women.