The Keeping It Positive Podcast

Allison did absolutely amazing in this episode. Anyone who knows her knows she truly has a heart of gold. We had such a great conversation about her journey in music, chasing her dreams, going after what you want, connecting with people, and the power of having the right attitude. Her passion and authenticity shine through in everything she does. When you’re around her, you simply cannot help but laugh, smile, and feel good. She brings such a positive energy wherever she goes. She is the kind of person who leaves a lasting impression, like a good rash that never goes away, in the best possible way. 

This week’s guest, Guy Villeneuve, is another truly amazing human being. He is a wealth advisor and the owner of Villeneuve Financial Consulting. In this episode, we talk about a little bit of everything, growing up in Sudbury, his journey into the financial services world, his philosophy in business, and his experiences along the way. We also dive into some of the most rewarding parts of his career so far, the importance of giving back to the community, words of wisdom for the younger generation, fatherhood, influences, values, and what has shaped him into the person he is today. We also discuss the importance of taking risks and stepping outside of your comfort zone. Guy has a special energy about him, and it’s contagious in the best way.

This week’s guest is another truly amazing individual, Rick Mackenzie, Managing Partner in Group Benefits at Gold Leaf Financial Group. Rick and I have been good friends for a long time, and he is someone I look up to tremendously. He is one of the hardest-working people I know, someone who gives so much of his time and energy to our community, and above all, he is simply a remarkable human being with a heart for helping others. In this episode, we talk about a little bit of everything, from the early days of his career to his involvement with the Rotary Club and the important role that service plays in making a positive difference. We also dive into the value of building strong relationships, staying grounded in your values, and the experiences and lessons that have helped shape him into the person and leader he is today. There is so much wisdom in this conversation, and I truly believe anyone who listens will come away feeling inspired and motivated to be the best version of themselves.

To know this guy is to absolutely love him. Wherever he goes, his attitude, personality, and demeanor are contagious in the best way possible. He is the definition of an uplifting person. Will is, hands down, one of the best people you’ll ever meet. His smile, kindness, and generosity truly make the world a better place. People gravitate toward him because of the genuine way he carries himself. He has so much love to give, and it shows in everything he does, especially in his role as a CTV morning anchor in the Ottawa region. We first met when he moved to Sudbury and worked at the CTV office for many years. Our community quickly embraced him as one of our own because of his easygoing personality, positivity, and kindness. No matter where he is, he leaves a positive impact. In this episode, we cover a bit of everything, his early life growing up in Ottawa and how things have come full circle, his career in Sudbury and Kitchener, the experiences that shaped him along the way, and ultimately returning home to his dream job hosting morning television in Ottawa. This is someone who truly deserves all the success in the world. He’s the definition of success in regards to doing what you love every single day. He shows up with a smile, an attitude of gratitude, and a genuine love for life. I can’t wait for you to listen to this incredible episode. It was such an honour to reconnect with him. He’s the kind of person after you are finished talking with him, you feel so much better, like your heart is just a little more full.

 I truly can’t thank Sara enough for such an incredible experience. Being around her is extremely special. Her personality and character are so uplifting, and she brings such great energy wherever she goes. She has already accomplished so much in her life, which is both inspiring and incredibly impressive. In this episode, we talk about a little bit of everything. We start by discussing her experience growing up as a synchronized swimmer and what she learned from that chapter of her life. We also dive into her impressive career path, including working with multiple OHL teams such as the Sudbury Wolves and the London Knights, as well as her time with the Vancouver Canucks. She now works for the National Hockey League as a senior manager of in game communications. We also talk about her passions for volunteering, writing, and traveling. She is such an interesting person with so much to offer the world. Simply by being who she is, she makes the world a better place. She always strives to stay happy, positive, and easygoing. She is constantly challenging herself, putting herself in situations that help her grow and learn as much as possible. I feel incredibly grateful to have a friend like her, and I know that everyone who knows her feels the exact same way.

I can’t thank Bryan enough for taking the time, this was such an unbelievable conversation. His mindset, perspective, and attitude are absolutely incredible. Bryan is truly a shining light in this world and in our community. Everywhere he goes, he shows love for Sudbury and makes people feel appreciated. The way he carries himself, with humility, gratitude, and generosity, it is something special. When you turn on the radio in the morning on Pure Country with him and Josh, you’re greeted with positivity and nothing but uplifting energy. In this episode, we talk a lot about the radio industry, his experiences, doing play by play announcing with the Sudbury Wolves, his family life, his faith, being part of the special community of Sudbury Ontario, and so much more. This amazing human being truly has a heart of gold, and I’m so grateful to call him a friend.

Back at it this week with another great episode! Whoever knows Sarah loves Sarah. She’s a ball of amazing energy and a true example of positivity, she always sees the good in people and in every situation. In this episode, we talk about a little bit of everything: her career path, world traveling, motherhood, and the wisdom she’s learned along the way. She’s probably one of the funniest people I’ve ever met. Her personality is absolutely incredible in the best way possible.

Whoever knows Rob knows that when you talk with him, you’re talking to a pure soul. The way he carries himself, the way he treats people, and the way he makes people feel whenever he’s around, it’s so special. He’s such an amazing guy with an incredibly caring heart. Wherever he goes, he brings kindness and so much good. Whatever he does, he goes all in!

This week’s guest is usually the one doing the interviewing, but this time, the roles are reversed. He is the perfect example of putting yourself out there, connecting with anyone, and giving the greatest gift of all: your time. He treats everyone with genuine respect and spreads kindness wherever he goes. You can find him anywhere with a smile on his face, sharing joy simply by being who he is, and through his incredible talent as a writer and storyteller. His impact on the Sudbury community and beyond is truly special. I’m incredibly grateful to call him a dear friend.

JP absolutely crushed it. The perfect guest to start the new year! When you think of genuinely good hearted people who are truly making a positive impact in everything they do, JP is one of the first persons that comes to mind. I’m beyond grateful to call him a friend and a role model. His mindset is all about giving your best, believing in yourself, and knowing that anyone can make a difference. He shared so many powerful nuggets of wisdom that genuinely gave me goosebumps

This episode was absolutely amazing and so much fun to create. It was incredible to catch up with such an amazing human being. Kevin is a phenomenal producer, director, and actor, but even more impressive is the person he is. We first met when I was chosen to be featured on an AMI production, Mind Your Business, a series that highlights disabled entrepreneurs and how we overcome challenges. From that experience, I gravitated toward Kevin right away. He’s a true class act: personable, kind-hearted, and genuinely good to his core. He’s the perfect person for projects like this. We laughed nonstop. We talked for about half an hour before I even hit record, and I remember saying, “This is incredible, I should’ve been recording from the start.” His response? “I thought you were recording.” We honestly could’ve talked for hours. We covered a little bit of everything, his career, working with AMI, chasing down robbers trying to steal from us, his philosophy on life, and so much more. This conversation was an absolute blast. Kevin is the kind of guy you want in your corner, someone who fills your heart with laughter, love, and everything in between. Kevin is one of a kind, and I’m incredibly grateful to call him a friend.

Back at it this week with another extraordinary guest, Ryan Catton! In this episode, we dive into a bit of everything: his career journey and what led him to Ionic Mechatronics, his passion for coffee and becoming a co-owner of Old Rock Coffee, family, life, and so much more.

This week, we have another great guest on the podcast, they just keep coming. It was an absolute honour and privilege to have the opportunity to chat with the amazing Dania Johanson. We talked about a bit of everything: her university experience, her incredible career thus far, teaching the Championship Selling course at Laurentian University, and her perspective on what it takes to be successful in the sales industry or in any industry, for that matter.

Time flies when you’re having fun. We have an amazing guest joining us, the one and only Cole Dinsmore. I was so blessed to have had the opportunity to go to university with this incredible human being. I’m so excited to catch up with him and reminisce about our university days. I’m also looking forward to hearing about all of his success and talking about his journey throughout his career. Cole is now the Country Manager for Athletic Brewing in Canada, and I can’t wait to dive in and learn more about the non-alcoholic craft beer market and how Athletic Brewing is taking the industry by storm. We also talk about the sales industry, his advice on how to be successful, and how to stay positive through the ups and downs.

It’s an honour have this amazing individual as a guest on this weeks podcast. Mike has been a dear friend since my university days. I don’t think I would be where I am without him. He made my university experience so much more memorable. He always had my back, and helped me anyway he could. I am forever grateful for his friendship. I have so much love for him. It’s amazing to see all of the success, from climbing the corporate ladder and now being the director of sales for major accounts for ADP! He is also doing such an amazing job in his personal life, being a new father, and building an incredible life with his wife Britt!  in this episode, we dive into a little bit of everything, growing up in Peterborough Ontario, university life, his career thus far, the sales industry overall, and so much more. 

I’m incredibly honoured to have the opportunity to sit down with such an inspiring individual on this week’s podcast. Mike Commito is truly one of a kind, a man driven by passion, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to everything he takes on. His energy, heart, and dedication are contagious. In this episode, we dive into his remarkable journey, from his impactful work with Cambrian College, to his career as a talented author, his deep connection to the Sudbury community, and so much more.

I think anyone who knows this guy loves this guy, he’s the definition of a glue guy, so to speak. Wherever Al goes, you’ll find him with a smile and hear his contagious laugh from a mile away. He’s someone who genuinely cares about others, so selfless and kind-hearted. We talk about a little bit of everything, what shaped him into the person he is today, his hockey career, his profession, and so much more. He’s a class act in every single aspect!

I’m so grateful that these two amazing guys agreed to be guests on the podcast. Jeff and Scott are two people I look up to a tremendous amount. In this episode, we dive into Mine Rescue in general, their positions with Ontario Mine Rescue, and why the work is so important. One of the main reasons I wanted them on this podcast is because they are both tremendous individuals, people who care deeply about others, who uplift those around them, and who are always willing to put everyone else ahead of themselves. Beyond that, this episode also gives a great perspective on what Mine Rescue does and the positive impact it has, not only in our community and province, but around the world.

This week’s guest is another incredible human being: Jordan Pennington! We first met during our time at Laurentian University. I was giving a speech at the residence banquet when Jordan received an award for his outstanding initiative. In his first year, he brought back and created the university’s campus emergency response team to ensure that students living in residence would feel safe at any time of day or night. After graduating, Jordan chose a career dedicated to serving others, working as an ambulance communicator/dispatcher and volunteering as a firefighter. He is also a member of the Bimaajitoon Search and Rescue team. Jordan is the type of person who always puts others before himself, selfless, service minded, and consistently there for those in need. In our conversation, we dive into his love for the outdoors and explore the experiences that have shaped him into the incredible person he is today. 

This week’s guest is an extraordinary person and an ambitious business owner. I’ve had the privilege of building a friendship with this amazing guy in university as we took the same program. Ty has had an impressive career thus far, and he’s just getting started. From an outstanding academic background to working with the Edmonton Oilers, he has now gone on to run multiple businesses, including recreational hockey leagues and a successful private tour company in Alberta.  Please note that we had some technical difficulties uploading the podcast, it could not save properly, therefore some parts might sound a little different!

Wayne is someone I look up to a tremendous amount. His outlook on life, work ethic, and respect for everyone he meets are truly impeccable, and he is such an amazing human being. In this episode, we talk about a little bit of everything, his early stages in life, his journey in sports, coaching, and living a healthy, active lifestyle. We also dive into his second chance at life and how important it is to maintain a positive attitude and a great mindset. Wayne is the type of guy you just want to be around. He is a good-hearted human being who truly makes the world a better place simply by being who he is.

This is a human being I’ve looked up to a tremendous amount for so long, ever since we first met. Ben is wise beyond his years, and what he has been able to accomplish thus far, not only in his life but in his professional hockey career, has been nothing short of amazing. He recently became a Calder Cup champion as the Manager of Team Services and Communications with the AHL Abbotsford Canucks. His journey through sport is a true story of determination and hard work. From starting as a manager for the Laurentian hockey team, to founding their analytics department, to becoming an OHL scout, and eventually working his way up to the pros, Ben deserves every accolade and all the recognition. He is incredibly smart, so respectful toward others, and works tirelessly. He deserves all the success in the world, and so much more

We finally got him! This is someone I look up to a tremendous amount. His go all in mentality is truly inspiring. Jer was recently promoted to Head Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Ottawa Senators, a role he absolutely deserves, and then some. He is also the co-founder of Momentous Athletics, located in Carrying Place, Ontario. Last year, the Senators were one of the teams that played in Kraft Hockeyville, and luckily for me, they played in Sudbury. Even with his busy schedule, Jer took the time to come visit. That’s just who he is, someone who always makes time for others, keeps their best interests at heart, and makes people better simply by being himself. While Jeremy is outstanding at training athletes, what’s truly special about him is that he doesn’t just make them better at their sport, he helps them become better human beings. Sitting down with him for a little over an hour was a blast, as we reminisced about his journey, where he started, and where he’s headed next. The sky’s the limit for this guy, and I’ll always be rooting for him. 

it is hard to believe we have already hit this milestone. What an incredible journey it has been so far. Right from the start, Doug was someone I knew I wanted to have on the podcast and I am so glad we made it happen. Just being around him fills you with positivity, his presence radiates warmth, compassion, and kindness. When you are around him, your heart is so full, and you have the biggest smile on your face. In this episode, we cover a bit of everything. Doug shares insights from his nearly 30 year career as a police officer with the Guelph Police Service, his longtime role as a strength and conditioning coach for both the Guelph Storm and the University of Guelph football team, and his powerful personal journey with PTSD. We also talk about how he has turned his experiences into books to help others facing similar challenges. You will not want to miss this one. Doug's website: https://riseupandexcel.ca/  

You can’t help but smile and feel uplifted when you’re around this guy. I’m incredibly thankful and honoured to have Randy join us as a guest on the podcast. In this episode, we dive into a bit of everything; his experience growing up in sports, his educational journey and doctorate in human studies, his passion for sports psychology, and his career in health and safety. We also explore the importance of mental health, his perspective on fatherhood, coaching sports, and so much more! PLEASE NOTE THAT THE QUALITY OF THE RECORDING IS A LITTLE SCRATCHY, IT IS NOT THE BEST, BUT THE QUALITY OF THE GUEST IS THE VERY BEST!

On this week’s episode, episode number 18, we’re thrilled to sit down with Marty for an inspiring conversation! We dive into his passion for art and tattooing, how he took the leap to start his own business, his love for ghost hunting, what inspires him, what drives him, and so much more. Warning, there is explicit language in this episode!

It was so much fun catching up with Michael Kussmann and to have the opportunity to reminisce about our great experience attending university. He is such a special person and such a dear friend! We also discussed post Laurentian, working as a teacher, how he started a business in voice recording and audio production, being a new father, and so much more. Mikey has one of the biggest hearts and kindness souls around. This episode was another great one, I am forever grateful for his time.

This one was truly heartwarming and such a fun experience. I had the chance to chat with a dear friend and one of my biggest role models, Claus Souza. We first met at Laurentian University when Claus was one of my personal trainers while I was a student. From there, we built a friendship that will last a lifetime. Back in those early days, we would always talk about our dreams. He was actually one of the very first people I told about my vision to start a clothing brand. At the same time, he shared his own dream of one day working in the NBA and with elite athletes. Fast forward to today, Claus is living that dream as an NBA Champion, working as one of the health and conditioning coaches for the Denver Nuggets. In this episode, we talk about his incredible journey, growing up in Brazil, coming to Canada for school, moving to the United States for new opportunities, and everything in between. Claus is one of those people who carries himself with wisdom and humility and has a way of making everyone around him feel seen and heard. His heart of gold, his relentless work ethic, and his drive for success are nothing short of inspiring. I could not be prouder of him, not just for what he has accomplished on the court but for the beautiful life he is building off the court as well with his growing family and so much more.

This episode features another remarkable person: John Hillier, an uplifting member of our community, a proud husband, girl dad, business owner, and teacher. Everything he does, he does with a great work ethic and a smile on his face. He has such a big heart and an outgoing, amazing personality, a personality that truly shines throughout this episode.

This episode was so much fun to record, we laughed so much. We had a hard time starting because we were laughing hysterically. As Val says, she’s pretty hilarious. Haha! Whenever you’re around Val, you can’t help but have a warm heart and a smile on your face! She is a great friend and role model to so many people, including myself! Her perspective on life is absolutely beautiful.

This week’s guest is one of a kind. Andrew has such a great presence, whenever you’re around him, you can’t help but smile and have a good time. He’s incredibly personable and an all-around great guy. Whether it’s work, fishing, or anything in between, whatever he does, he gives it his all and does it with a great attitude. He’s wise beyond his years and the kind of person who’s destined for continued success

I’m super excited to have such a great friend featured in this week’s episode of Keeping It Positive. Joey is one of a kind. One of the many great outcomes of attending university was having the opportunity to meet this amazing guy and develop a lifelong friendship. He’s big in stature because he has an even bigger heart. Joey would do anything for anyone, and he’s always there to listen and lend a hand to those in need. Just a salt-of-the-earth kind of guy who makes the Laurentian University community, the Sudbury community, and the world a better place.

If you know him, you definitely look up to him. It was such a treat to have the opportunity to catch up with Chris! He has been a role model for me since the day I met him. He’s someone who radiates kindness, the kind of person you always want to have around. Chris is doing incredible things in his career as the Director of Social Media Partnerships at the National Hockey League. He’s also thriving in his personal life, living it to the fullest and recently becoming a proud father of twin girls. I couldn’t be happier for him, this guy deserves everything in the world and more. We had such a great conversation, reminiscing about the sports administration program and life in general. Thank you so much for taking the time, Acky!

We’ve got another amazing guest this week. Rob is the definition of perseverance. No matter how he feels, he shows up and gives his best very single day. Doctors say he’s a walking miracle; defying the odds day in and day out, making the most of every moment, and living life to the fullest. A man of many careers, Rob is truly one of the most interesting people around. His story is fascinating, and it was incredible to dig into the meat and potatoes of his journey. Living with stage four cancer, nothing holds him back. His perspective, attitude, and determination are truly exceptional and inspiring in every way.

Being around this guy is truly magical. Dan brings out the best in others, he makes people feel good, smile, and laugh like crazy. He has such an amazing soul and a tremendous heart. As a teacher, he always goes above and beyond. He coaches multiple sports and is always there for everyone; his students, coworkers, family, and loved ones. In this episode, we talked about so many great things and, of course, we laughed a ton. I look up to this guy in so many ways. He just lives life the right way. 

It was an absolute honour and privilege to welcome the incredibly talented Curtis Halladay to the podcast. Curtis is a remarkable individual whose drive, passion, and determination shine through in everything he does. Whether it’s through his work as a filmmaker or his journey as a former Paralympian, Curtis approaches every challenge with a relentless mindset and an unwavering commitment to excellence. His ability to persevere, no matter what life throws his way, is truly inspiring. Curtis embodies what it means to stay positive, push forward, and never give up. His story is powerful, his perspective is uplifting, and this episode is filled with wisdom worth hearing.

It was such an honour to have Holly Reilly as a guest. Even though it was out of her comfort zone, she absolutely crushed it. We talked about her path as a teacher, her passion for what she does, love for family, and so much more. The people that know Holly know that having her in your life makes your life that much better. She has such a caring heart, with such an outgoing, loving, fun personality! The world is definitely in a better place having her teaching the leaders of tomorrow, and having a positive impact on them. She definitely leads by example every step of the way.

Recording this episode was truly another incredible experience. From the very first time I met Reagan, I knew he was someone special, the kind of person whose energy, positivity, and character instantly stand out. In Episode 6, we dive deep into his journey, exploring his impressive hockey career both as a player and now as a coach, as well as his philosophy on leadership, player development, relationship-building, and his undeniable passion for the game. Reagan is a true example of someone who makes the most of every opportunity, embraces a “glass half full” mindset, and consistently approaches life with positivity and purpose. His story is inspiring, and the way he lives and leads is something we can all learn from. Thank you for taking the time to join me on the show, Reags, I appreciate you more than you know!

This weeks episode is another doozy! The camaraderie that these guys have, their friendship, the banter, it’s pure magic, and you can catch it every week on the @btbpodcast__ ! This collaboration was truly special, because these guys are truly special. The keeping it positive podcast is all about promoting individuals and putting them on a pedestal that they truly deserve to be on. Al, Tommy and Bobby Beats, are three individuals that are some of the best guys around, the hardest workers, and they are people that make you feel good whenever you are around them. They are extremely talented in so many ways and strive to be better each and every day. The community in which they have built is nothing short of extraordinary, highlighting so many amazing people, and so many things across northern Ontario! It was amazing to have this incredible trio on the pod. I can’t wait for everyone to listen!

Kevin Collins is the President and CEO of Easter Seals Ontario, where he leads with purpose, compassion, and a deep commitment to empowering children and youth with physical disabilities. With decades of experience in the nonprofit sector, Kevin is known for his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to creating inclusive opportunities and brighter futures for families across the province. Under his guidance, Easter Seals Ontario continues to grow as a trusted organization, delivering life-changing programs, services, and advocacy. Kevin is a respected leader who leads by example, bringing heart, integrity, and drive to everything he does. His career is a testament to the power of making a difference. Whether he’s engaging with donors, inspiring his team, or championing accessibility and inclusion, Kevin’s impact resonates far beyond the walls of the organization.

Mark is the definition of hard work and entrepreneurial spirit. A serial entrepreneur, he owns and operates Boss Supplements, The Food Truck (Sudbury and Chelmsford), and the Ironworks Gym. Mark is an example of someone who figures it all out and makes things happen, all while approaching every endeavor with a heart of gold.

JP Rains is a marketing and communications pro with a heart of gold. Born in Timmins ON, he holds a Sports Administration degree and an MBA from Laurentian University. He currently leads Laurentian’s Communications, Digital Strategy, and Translation teams, helping drive student recruitment and retention through media, social platforms, and digital marketing. JP also runs Rains Media, working as a consultant and always up for helping others. A 40 Under 40 award winner, he’s not just talented—he’s a kind, genuine person who truly cares about his work, his team, and his community.

Joey Slattery is your friendly neighborhood sports guy, passionate about building community and telling the stories that matter. Whether he’s on the sidelines, in the studio, or behind the mic, Joey brings energy, heart, and authenticity to everything he does. Currently a sideline reporter for the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL), Joey captures the excitement of the game while bringing fans closer to the action. As the host of Afternoons with Joey Slattery on Corus Entertainment, he keeps audiences engaged with insightful conversations, local stories, and a signature charm that makes every show feel like a chat with an old friend. With a wealth of experience in broadcasting, Joey has worn many hats—serving as a sports director, news anchor, and journalist at CTV News, as well as working for Bell Media. His journey in media started with an internship at Rogers Sportsnet, paving the way for a career that has taken him across platforms, from television to radio to hosting various podcasts. An alumnus of Laurentian University and Cambrian College, where he studied Communications, Joey’s love for storytelling has always been at the heart of his career. But beyond his professional accomplishments, what truly sets him apart is his infectious positivity. Known as one of the most uplifting, friendliest people around, Joey is the life of the party—the guy everyone loves to be around. Whether he’s covering the latest sports action or bringing communities together through meaningful conversations, Joey Slattery is a storyteller, a connector, and a true champion of the people.