Cseking In

Brian Stephenson and host Nikki Csek discuss a wide range of topics related to Stephenson's professional journey, from his background in law to starting Lake Point Capital with his business partner, Cooper Harrison.

Host Nikki Csek recently sat down with Matt Johnston, President of Lime Architecture Inc.Matt, an experienced architect with a unique design philosophy, is dedicated to sustainable and high-quality creations.With over two decades in architecture and influenced by his time in Germany, Matt seamlessly blends his artistic flair, love for the arts, and music into Lime's projects, creating a holistic design experience.

Meet Ashley Stone, a registered nurse, mom of four, and the creative mind behind The Village App.Surprisingly, her talent for solving problems and life's unexpected turns led her to create something really new.

In this episode of Cseking In, Nikki Csek sits down with Rachela Pollock, the host of the She Dares to Travel podcast and a commercial insurance broker at Acera Insurance.Rachela is also a co-founder of Boss Babe VIP, a vibrant networking and referral group in the Okanagan that brings together entrepreneurial-minded women to connect, support, and celebrate each other.

In a recent episode of Cseking In, host Nikki Csek had the pleasure of interviewing two professionals from TMG Search Canada – Emily Phair, the President, and Adrianna Stange, a Managing Consultant.TMG Search Canada distinguishes itself as a Global Talent Acquisition Firm with over 30 years of executive search experience.

In the latest episode of 'Cseking In,' host Nikki Csek sits down with the dynamic duo of wealth management, Karen Erickson and Kayla Caruana.Together, they have their own firm, called Karen & Kayla - IG Private Wealth Management.As a mother-daughter team of certified financial planning (CFP) professionals, Karen and Kayla bring a sophisticated and detailed approach to managing wealth.

In the latest episode of Cseking In, host Nikki Csek sat down with Danica Dutt, the President of Kelowna Woman in Business and a certified cash flow specialist and wealth advisor at Benewealth Strategies.The discussion revolved around Danica's journey in the finance field and her remarkable growth to the position of president within the Kelowna Woman in Business organization.

In a recent episode of "Cseking In," Nikki Csek sat down with Dom Rampone, a sales rep and marketing representative for West Manufacturer LTD.Dom's remarkable journey has seen him ascend to the position of Vice Chair for the Westbank First Nation Economic Development Board, a significant achievement in community leadership.

In a recent episode of 'Cseking In’, host Nikki Csek, had the delightful opportunity to engage in a heart-to-heart conversation with Amy Nicole Cohen, a prominent makeup artist and the founder behind Chic Studios.Their conversation unveiled the story behind the Chic Studios brand, leaving us with an inspiring look into Amy's journey.

'Let's Not Sugarcoat It' is a podcast that serves as a refreshing departure from the picture-perfect portrayals of motherhood often found on social media.It's a space where Alex and Bella, two candid and unfiltered moms, fearlessly tackle the tough questions and engage in lively conversations about the complexities of marriage, running a business, raising kids, and navigating the often elusive terrain of intimacy.

Guest Pamela Pearson discusses her career, philanthropic work, and the factors that have shaped her remarkable journey.Her core mission is to enhance the quality of business and life in her community and inspire others to give back.She has served as the Past President of the Kelowna Chamber of Commerce, received the 2023 Women of the Year award, and holds the position of Director of Operations at Sentes Automotive.

In this episode of Cseking In, Nikki Csek sat down with Suzanne Degner to discuss her journey and celebration of her one-year anniversary as the proud owner of Love It Dental, a thriving dental practice that has quickly become a beloved fixture in the community.

In this episode of Cseking In, Nikki Csek recently sat down with Carlee Wiebe, the general manager of Eternal Timber and Design. The two discussed Wiebe’s journey as an athlete and her current position managing the business alongside her husband Shawn.

Nikki Csek recently sat down with entrepreneur Krystina Rossworm to talk about her wine touring company, Beach Bums Tours. Which she describes as a combination of beach life, the Okanagan wine life and the essence of adventure.Rossworm has had an exciting journey leading to the success of her business today, making the leap from sales commissions to running and owning her wine touring company. ““ It’s important to create something that makes a difference,” Says Rossworm.Beach Bum Tours offers more than just a typical wine tour - it’s an adventurous experience that brings people together to enjoy “unique fun days.”

In this episode of Cseking In, Nikki Csek sat down with Shannon Christensen who discusses her experience as a mother which led to the creation of the first charity that began on social media to become a nationally registered organization. Christensen's love of helping others stemmed from her psychology degree and early career treating young violent offenders. Growing up, her mother often spoke about manifestation, with great emphasis on “believe it before you have it”.“All I did was work and be a mom to my kids and not have a sense of connection,” says Christensen..” As a younger mother, Christensen felt unsupported and strived to create a legacy to help other mothers who also felt the same way.Mamas for Mamas is a poverty relief agency with a strong emphasis on community. Christensen aims to break down the competitiveness among mothers and enhance kindness. 

In this episode of Cseking In, Nikki Csek reconnected and sat down with Al Hildebrandt to talk about his progress and continuous involvement within the community and the importance of making a difference to better the lives of others.Hildebrandt's diverse career journey, including being a banker, policeman and firefighter gave him deeper insights into working with different people.The Impact Tomorrow Foundation, a not-for-profit foundation led by Hildebrandt helps raise funds for multiple charities orientated around children's wellness, poverty and protection. He emphasizes the power of collaboration in propelling change. 

Nikki Csek recently sat down with local shutterbug Shawn Talbot to talk about all things photography and how he grew to become one of Canada’s most sought-after photographers.The fourth-generation Kelowna resident has always had a passion for film and photography and has plenty of advice to give aspiring photographers.

In this episode of Cseking in, we sat down with Julie Hoffman otherwise known as the Street Smart Diva, real estate investment coach, to learn about her experience within real estate investment.Despite Hoffman’s success today, her pathway within real estate hasn't been straightforward. Whilst she encountered several triumphs, she also faced major setbacks including surrendering to bankruptcy in 2007 following the recession. But how did her journey begin?

Meet the Kelowna-based best friends behind the innovative, industry-leading IoT software Linkbase!After meeting each other at UBCO and being inspired by one another’s entrepreneurial spirit, a collaboration between the two was inevitable.“We were friends for a little bit, and we always knew we were going to get into business together”.

One of the best parts of living in British Columbia is the wildlife. However, when you notice that the top of your building is starting to resemble swiss cheese because the woodpeckers have taken a liking to it, you need to find a solution.Today we sat down with Keith Elsenkrein, creator of EIFS Armour, to talk about what inspired the idea that finally beat the woodpeckers once and for all, and the story of what brought him to where he is today.

On this week's episode of Cseking In we sat down with the president and CEO of Ecora Engineering & Resource Group, Kelly Sherman, to hear about the journey that lead to him creating the company.Kelly explains that he was tired of seeing people not being treated properly by the company he was working for, from employees to clients, and that’s what pushed him to take a new direction.

In this episode of Cseking In, we sat down with Meghan Cortese, a woman who has built a substantial career as a Realtor since entering the commercial real estate market in her early twenties.Since entering the real estate industry, Meghan has gained a positive reputation for her knowledge and experience in the retail, office, and industrial industry all across Canada.

In this episode of Cseking In, we sat down with Angie Norman, president and partner of Westwood Fine Cabinetry, about her second-generation family business as it celebrates 50 years in operation.Started in 1972 by Angie’s father, Westwood Fine Cabinetry has become a highly-valued, community-oriented Okanagan company. Although Angie wasn’t initially interested in taking over, the business quickly became her pride and joy when she started working for her father after graduating from university with a science degree.

In this episode of Cseking In, we sat down with Derek Norman, president of Nortrans Freight Management to learn some of the ins and outs of the trucking industry and how he got his start as an entrepreneur.

In this episode of Cseking In, we sat down with Jennifer Turton-Molgat, president of The View Winery & Vineyards to talk about how her entrepreneurial journey took her from teaching grade school to making cider to running a highly successful winery.

In this episode, we sat down with Barry & Kevin Johnson, the fantastic father-son duo, to hear about their journey into real estate development. Their latest project, ARIVA, centres around health, community, and connection.

In this episode of Cseking In, Reese Tomlinson, one of the founding partners of RWT Growth Inc. shares his personal journey as a serial entrepreneur, leader, and lifelong learner.Having started his first company at the age of 17, Reese has years of experience with growing companies, managing deals, and empowering people. In 2013, he helped create RWT Growth Inc., a boutique full-service firm that was designed to advise and consult companies in areas of investment banking and mergers and acquisitions based out of Kelowna.

In this episode of Cseking In, Dr Shannon Snow of the Valeo Health Clinic shares his personal journey that led towards a revolutionary all in one practice.Upon arriving in the Okanagan, he assembled Kelowna's integrated health team, which is now known as the Valeo Health Clinic. Here, the team offers chiropractic, kinesiology, massage, naturopathic, shockwave, physiotherapy, and compression services all from their lone location in Kelowna's Landmark District.

In this episode of Cseking In, Lane Martin shares his entrepreneurial journey with immense detail. Join him as he narrates growing up in a self-employed home, becoming a teenage father, and developing into a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist.By pressing play, you're going to gain inspiration and tenacity while Lane and Nikki discuss the brand development and strategic planning of Modern PURAIR and then dive into an exciting conclusion towards the PUR KIDS Foundation - where 1% of Modern PURAIR® franchise system sales are donated to the PUR KIDS® Foundation.

In this episode of Cseking In, Shandi Schwartz, the owner of Strut Footwear & Apperal Inc., shares how she found her footing as a businesswoman.Throughout the discussion, the former teacher tells the tale of how following the advice she'd give to students, "leap and the net will appear," became the first step towards opening a business in the Misson Park Shopping Centre.

In this episode of Cseking In, Angie Lohr, President of H.O.P.E Outreach, a local organization that provides nighttime outreach for the women of Kelowna and Vernon who are homeless, living in addiction, exploited, and working in sex work, shares an intimate look into what this epidemic truly is.

Meet Blair Wilson, a retired Chartered Accountant who dared to turn a 20-acre apple orchard into one of the smoothest and superior craft vodka producers on the market - Rebel Vodka.Among his many roles and daring ventures, Blair is the founder and CEO of Forbidden Spirits Distilling Co., is also a former member of parliament and had a chain of pizza restaurants in Poland, as well.

From Kelowna's not-for-profit sector, Ester Pike of Kelowna Women's Shelter shares an enriching and powerfully personal story of how a non-profit saved her in a moment of crisis when her family became homeless after a natural disaster.Through guidance, perseverance, and a passion for volunteering, Ester learned compassion, life skills and a Master's Degree that put her on an admirable path towards serving others and supporting the community that took care of her when she faced unexpected adversity and challenges.We ask that you listen to Ester's story and hope that you share the same sense of appreciation as our host Nikki Csek does throughout this empowering episode of Cseking In.

In this episode of Cseking In, the brothers share stories such as how on take your kids to work day, Chris and Jason would join their father along Gastown and meet the tenants that he put in there. They also share a great story on the very moment they decided to branch out on their own and create their vision of what a Commercial Real Estate Company can be.These brothers are always propelling each other forwards and constantly encourage each other to be better. Through support and a little friendly competition, they have built a commercial real estate company that prides itself on putting people first and in this episode, share many of their insights and how to obtain, service and retain customers.

How do you go from living under a bridge to a successful CEO & mom?Jamela Van Steinburg has such an amazing story that will inspire so many to learn your what and find your how. Some of her first memories included living under the Lions Gate Bridge in Vancouver, to growing up off the grid in Beaverdell on a $1.00 down lots. Yes, lots for a $1.00 down.Jamela Van Steinburg owns multiple rental properties, is the CEO of her own development company VLS Developments, but lists MOM as her number one occupation.

New beginnings can be full of blessings.A real-life Brady Bunch brought together through tragedy, Treena Carson-Piva and Aaron Piva met in a support group as they were going through their individual family crisis.Treena, the Saskatchewan-born Rider’s fan ventured out to Vancouver to meet Aaron, the Vancouver-born-and-raised man and they started a new life together here in Kelowna as a family.They purchased the Real Property Management franchise in Kelowna and have put themselves in a place they never thought possible, both personally and professionally. You will have to listen to hear the story.

Steve and Diane Geddes arrived in Kelowna two years ago and purchased a Fibrenew franchise that specializes in repairing leather, plastic and vinyl, surfaces.Servicing from the Bennett Bridge to Salmon Arm, Steve and Diane Geddes are literally the furniture whisperers. They're breathing new life into family furniture that has an emotional attachment with the added benefit of keeping furniture out of landfills."If the bones are still good, we can fix the covering of well-worn furniture," said Steve Geddes.

This is the story of Bliss, the little village bakery that couldAt one point, everyone who has travelled through the Okanagan stops to appreciate the view. When Darcy Yeo, one of the two owners of Bliss Bakery arrived in Peachland with her husband, Barry, one of 18 Red Seal Master Bakers in the Province, they overlooked the water and knew this was it.The story below accentuates the Bliss Experience, battling MS, growing a business for 15 years with multiple locations and constantly feeding a 15-year-old sourdough, named Darwin.

When many children are playing games like house or dreaming of their future, Cassidy deVeer was learning how to build a home.At a young age, she was spending time on job sites and hanging out in hardware stores with her father, who previously owned the Windsor Plywood in Kelowna.Now, Cassidy is the first female President of the Canadian Home Builders Association and owner/operator of 3rd Generation Homes.Recently, this amazing woman joined the CEO and co-founder of the NowMedia Group, Nikki Csek, to humbly share the story of how she earned these titles while providing insight into how housing affordability is a huge issue and it's not getting better, it's only getting worse.Spectacular achievements and inspiration come naturally to the hard-working Cassidy deVeer and therefore, we hope you enjoy this episode of Cseking In.

Over 23 years, a lot of good has come from Straight from DeHart, a weekly column by Maxine Dehart.In this episode of Cseking In with Maxine DeHart, she shares many community stories including one grateful entrepreneur who told her "Mrs. DeHart, you gave me my start."To uncover the passion behind why Maxine DeHart is the pulse that keeps Kelowna's heart beating, listen to this episode of Cseking In.

At 27, Luke Menkes was in no rush to become the man he grew up to be. But that all changed when his dad told him he was diagnosed with terminal cancer and that he needed to take over the real estate business, which included a potential $30 million dollar project in the Cayman Islands.Just like that, it was time to grow up, move to the Caymans and finish what his dad started. But then a big one-two punch hit and they don't get any bigger than a hurricane that rips the roof off the development and the world financial crisis of 2008.

In this episode, Lucas Griffin, president of Secure-Rite Mobile Storage, shares a 15-year journey that includes humble beginnings and how his parents prolonged their one and only financial goal in life, to be mortgage-free, to invest in their son's vision.Listen to this inspiring story of entrepreneurship.

In this episode, you can hear the passion and hard work through the microphone of local business owner Andre Blanleil, of Andre's Electronic Experts.Andre began to gain experience working with electronics alongside his father who founded Andre's Electronics in the 1960s, a TV repair and service shop. As the business grew, so did Andre's goals and accomplishments. His vision to make Kelowna a better place led him into the role of the past City of Kelowna Councillor and was recently awarded Kelowna Chamber of Commerce, Business Leader of the year. Andre speaks highly of his employees who he treats like family and the level of customer service that makes Andre's Electronics a success even through a pandemic.Andre's passion for his family, the business and communities he operates in, and local sports is an amazing example of leadership for the places we call home.

In this edition of Cseking In, Nikki is joined by Ron Cannan, Former Canadian Member of Parliament to discuss volunteering, community, the Child Advocacy Centre of Kelowna and more.

In this episode, Steve Harvey, CEO and founder of Business Finders Canada, speaks about how he turned his business into a national franchise.

In this episode, we feature Mark West, founder of Epic Real Estate Solutions. Mark touches on the exciting redevelopments and affordable housing coming to life within our growing community.

In this episode, we feature Crispin Butterfield from Urban Theory Interior Design. She speaks about her love of interior design has transformed into her new passion for mentorship and connecting multiple disciplines in the creative arts.

In this episode, we hear from Dustin Serviss of Serviss Wealth Management as he takes us through what it takes to grow a business with peace of mind.

In this episode, the President of Parke Pacific Projects, Stewart Parke discusses how critical core values are in business.