エピソード

  • Saying Less to Artfully Be More
    2025/07/09

    The problem Mary Alice solves in one sentence:
    Does your website feel cluttered and confusing? Mary Alice helps turn it into a clear, lead-generating machine.

    🎁 Summary of the Presentation

    Join hosts Bernie Franzgrote and Wayne Pratt as they welcome Mary Alice Bell, founder of Digital Insite, to East Trade Winds. Mary Alice is an expert web strategist and WordPress specialist with a track record of simplifying websites for small businesses. In this episode, she reveals how minimalist design—particularly well-crafted landing pages—can dramatically improve your lead generation and conversion rates while lowering costs.

    🧠 Key Topics Covered

    • The power of minimalist web design 🌿
    • Why less content equals more impact
    • Cost-effective strategies for small businesses
    • Crafting focused, lead-generating landing pages
    • SEO tips for clarity and visibility
    • Real-world examples and success stories
    • How to measure the impact of simplification

    🌐 Guest Links & Resources

    • Mary Alice Bell (LinkedIn): www.linkedin.com/in/maryalicebell/
    • Digital Insite website: www.digitalinsite.ca
    • Watch the full presentation on YouTube: Saying Less to Artfully Be More
    • Listen on Simplecast: East Trade Winds Podcast – Episode

    Thanks to:

    • Bernie Franzgrote – Co-host, insights & introductions
    • Wayne Pratt – Co-host, event coordination
    • East Trade Winds for making this event possible

    📩 Connect With Us

    Got questions or want help simplifying your website? Reach out to us at info@kreativinsight.com– we’d love to help you say less and be more.

    📅 Don’t Miss the Next Event!

    Join us Tuesdays at 8–9 AM EST to hear future guest speakers.
    👉 Register here: East Trade Winds Weekly meeting

    ✅ Call to Action

    If you're a small or medium-sized business owner seeking a more effective, simpler online presence—and want to catch future expert talks—watch the full YouTube video, connect with Mary Alice Bell, and join our next East Trade Winds Tuesday event! Get practical, cost-effective tips to simplify your brand—and generate more leads.

    Disclaimer: Please note that the East Trade Winds podcast episodes are meant solely for educational and general informational purposes. The information and opinions contained within are not intended to be professional advice on any subject matter. The thoughts, views, and opinions expressed by the participants are their own beliefs and do not represent the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations.

    It is important to note that this podcast is not a replacement for consulting with certified experts in your area who possess knowledge of your unique situation. The hosts of the podcast, along with any participants or affiliated groups, do not take responsibility for any actions taken or not taken based on the information presented in this episode.

    It is highly recommended that individuals seek guidance from their advisors in fields such as accounting, law, or other pertinent areas prior to undertaking any actions or making decisions that may impact their financial, legal, or other aspects of life.

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    12 分
  • Unlock Peace with Strategic Coverage
    2025/07/09

    Problem Solved:
    Many business owners don’t fully understand what insurance they need — or why they need it — until it’s too late.

    In this episode of East Trade Winds, hosts Bernie Franzgrote and Wayne Pratt welcome Younes Taoudi, a trusted Commercial Insurance Broker at Gifford Carr Insurance Group (Younes on LinkedIn). With more than 17 years of experience, Younes helps Canadian businesses understand how the right insurance coverage brings peace of mind and long-term stability.

    This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs looking to protect their growing businesses in today’s fast-changing world.

    🔑 What You’ll Learn:

    • Why cyber insurance is now critical, even for small businesses
    • How business interruption coverage can save your company after a disaster
    • What professional liability insurance protects — and when you need it
    • The story behind Gifford Carr Insurance Group, and their client-first approach
    • How bilingual support from experienced brokers like Younes helps you navigate complex options
    • Key risks facing Canadian businesses today — and how to build smart protections

    🛠️ Guest Resources:

    • Younes Taoudi: LinkedIn
    • Gifford Carr Insurance Group: Website
    • 🎥 Watch on YouTube: Unlock Peace with Strategic Coverage

    🤝 Supporting Mentions:

    • Bernie Franzgrote – Co-host and connector at East Trade Winds
    • Wayne Pratt – Co-host and business strategist

    📩 Questions or Want to Speak with Us?

    Email: info@kreativinsight.com

    📅 Don't Miss the Next Event:

    Join our weekly East Trade Winds Tuesday business networking event! Meet great speakers and fellow entrepreneurs every Tuesday from 8–9 AM EST. 👉 Register Here

    📢 Call to Action (LinkedIn & YouTube CTA):

    Running a business in Canada? Learn how to stay protected and thrive with insurance strategies that work. 🎯

    📽️ Watch now: Unlock Peace with Strategic Coverage
    🤝 Connect with Younes on LinkedIn: Younes Taoudi
    📅 Join our next live event on Zoom: East Trade Winds Registration

    Disclaimer: Please note that the East Trade Winds podcast episodes are meant solely for educational and general informational purposes. The information and opinions contained within are not intended to be professional advice on any subject matter. The thoughts, views, and opinions expressed by the participants are their own beliefs and do not represent the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations.

    It is important to note that this podcast is not a replacement for consulting with certified experts in your area who possess knowledge of your unique situation. The hosts of the podcast, along with any participants or affiliated groups, do not take responsibility for any actions taken or not taken based on the information presented in this episode.

    It is highly recommended that individuals seek guidance from their advisors in fields such as accounting, law, or other pertinent areas prior to undertaking any actions or making decisions that may impact their financial, legal, or other aspects of life.

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    13 分
  • Revolutionize Your Finances: The Sweet Canadian Solution
    2025/06/27
    🛠️ Problem Jacqueline Solves in One SentenceMany Canadians overpay in mortgage interest and miss out on tax-saving investment opportunities.📖 Episode SummaryIn this episode of East Trade Winds, host Bernie Franzgrote and Wayne Pratt interview Jacqueline Richards of Capital Mortgages. As a seasoned Mortgage Agent and Certified Life Coach, Jacqueline blends financial strategy with wellness to teach listeners the Smith Maneuver. This Canadian technique converts non-deductible mortgage interest into tax-deductible investment interest, offering a transformative path for entrepreneurs, investors, and families alike. She guides us through aligning mortgage payments with investment growth, leveraging HELOCs, cutting tax bills, and embracing financial peace—all grounded in mindfulness.🔑 Key Topics CoveredWhat is the Smith Maneuver and why it worksUsing HELOCs to invest while paying your mortgageConverting non-deductible debt into deductible debtSteps to reduce your taxes and maximize returnsThe link between financial health and mindfulnessReal-life examples and best practices for Canadian entrepreneurs and families 🔗 Connect with Jacqueline Richards & Explore ResourcesJacqueline Richards – LinkedIn (Capital Mortgages)Visit Jacqueline’s website: jacquelinerichards.ca 🎧 Watch the Episode on YouTube: Revolutionize Your Finances: The Sweet Canadian Solution 🎙️ About Your HostsHosted by Bernie Franzgrote and Wayne Pratt, the East Trade Winds podcast brings together top thought leaders to support Canadian small- and medium-sized businesses. 🙌 ShoutoutsSpecial thanks to all the entrepreneurs, single-parent families, and real estate investors who shared their stories—and to the wellness community that supports mindful money management. 🚀 Call to ActionWatch the YouTube video for visual breakdowns: 🔗Connect with Jacqueline Richards for tailored mortgage and investment strategiesJoin us live at the next East Trade Winds Tuesday event (8–9 AM EST) to meet more guest speakers and grow your network:Register hereGot questions? Email us at 📧 info@kreativinsight.com 🖼️ Visual 3D Concepts for AI DesignMortgage ladder turning into upward-growth arrowsA house transforming into a bar graph of investmentsTree roots shaped like dollar signs under a cozy homeStacked coins morphing into a mindful person meditatingHELOC cable wrapping a home and dangling investment iconsCanadian maple leaf overlaying mortgage documents and chartsSilhouette balancing house and investment on a seesawPrism refracting mortgage payments into colorful growth beamsMindful yogi figure sitting on a house atop financial chartsBlueprint of a home fused with dollar-sign circuit lines 📬 Reach us at info@kreativinsight.com Disclaimer: Please note that the East Trade Winds podcast episodes are meant solely for educational and general informational purposes. The information and opinions contained within are not intended to be professional advice on any subject matter. The thoughts, views, and opinions expressed by the participants are their own beliefs and do not represent the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations.It is important to note that this podcast is not a replacement for consulting with certified experts in your area who possess knowledge of your unique situation. The hosts of the podcast, along with any participants or affiliated groups, do not take responsibility for any actions taken or not taken based on the information presented in this episode.It is highly recommended that individuals seek guidance from their advisors in fields such as accounting, law, or other pertinent areas prior to undertaking any actions or making decisions that may impact their financial, legal, or other aspects of life.
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    20 分
  • Coffee Coaching Secrets for Every Professional
    2025/06/20

    In this episode of East Trade Winds, host Bernie Franzgrote teams up with Wayne Pratt from Motive8U and Matt Hawksley, CEO of Leadogo, to unpack the simple yet powerful coaching method revealed in their shared book, Freshly Brewed Coaching. Together, they introduce a three-phase process—Diagnose, Prescribe, Thrive—that empowers professionals at any level to grow, succeed, and transform their teams.

    Summary of the Presentation

    • Diagnose: Learn practical ways to identify key challenges in your career or business.
    • Prescribe: Discover how to craft tailored coaching steps that lead to real change.
    • Thrive: See how consistent support and follow‑through create lasting impact for you and your team.

    Key Topics Covered

    • Why coaching shouldn’t be reserved for senior leaders
    • Three-phase coaching method explained
    • Tips for applying coaching in startups, solopreneur ventures, or growing teams
    • Real‑life examples from Matt and Wayne
    • How Freshly Brewed Coaching supports everyday coaching success

    Guest Links & Resources

    • Matt Hawksley (CEO, Leadogo) – Website – LinkedIn
    • Wayne Pratt (Founder, Motive8U) – Website – LinkedIn
    • Freshly Brewed Coaching book launch – Website

    Contact

    To connect or continue the discussion, email us at info@kreativinsight.com.

    📢 Call to Action

    ☕ Want to dive deeper?

    1. Watch the full video on YouTube: Coffee Coaching Secrets for Every Professional
    2. Join us next Tuesday, 8–9 AM EST, at the East Trade Winds Weekly event: register here → https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUlf-msrzktGdz-UTwX8Tv6CK5Lu3tacGI9
    3. Connect with Matt and Wayne on LinkedIn and explore Freshly Brewed Coaching to kickstart practical coaching in your team.

    Let’s grow together—one coffee chat at a time!

    Disclaimer: Please note that the East Trade Winds podcast episodes are meant solely for educational and general informational purposes. The information and opinions contained within are not intended to be professional advice on any subject matter. The thoughts, views, and opinions expressed by the participants are their own beliefs and do not represent the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations.

    It is important to note that this podcast is not a replacement for consulting with certified experts in your area who possess knowledge of your unique situation. The hosts of the podcast, along with any participants or affiliated groups, do not take responsibility for any actions taken or not taken based on the information presented in this episode.

    It is highly recommended that individuals seek guidance from their advisors in fields such as accounting, law, or other pertinent areas prior to undertaking any actions or making decisions that may impact their financial, legal, or other aspects of life.

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    7 分
  • Revolutionize Content Creation with Canva Mastery
    2025/06/20
    Creating on-brand, efficient, high-quality content can be slow, inconsistent, and frustrating.Join hosts Bernie Franzgrote and Wayne Pratt as they welcome Thea Newcomb, one of only 45 Canva Verified Experts globally. With over 11 years using Canva and 15 years training teams worldwide, Thea shares smart hacks to save time, craft consistent brand visuals, and elevate your content quality.She covers setting up your brand kit, leveraging Canva AI for social posts, designing a content calendar, and using shortcut keys to speed up your process. This episode is packed with quick wins and long-term strategies to supercharge your creative workflow. Plus, hear how East Trade Winds events connect you to this community of growth-minded professionals. ✅ Key Topics CoveredSetting up and using a Canva Brand KitHarnessing Canva AI for smarter visualsBuilding an easy content calendarCanva shortcuts and hotkeys for efficiencyReal-world Canva use cases for businessNetworking through East Trade Winds Tuesday 🔗 Guest Links & ResourcesThea Newcomb – Canva Expert – theanewcomb.co.uk/linksSubscribe to Thea’s newsletter – theanewcomb.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=...Slide presentation: bit.ly/canvawinsetwCanva Brand Kit guide: bit.ly/canbrankitCanva AI deep dive: bit.ly/newcanvaaiCanva Pro free trial: bit.ly/theacve 📞 Contact & ConnectFor inquiries or to collaborate, email us at info@kreativinsight.comWatch the full video on YouTube ➝ Revolutionize Content Creation with Canva Mastery 🎨 3D Visual Theme Concepts“Canva AI Spark”: 3D swirling light bulbs & brushes“Brand Kit Toolbox”: floating brand logos inside a toolkit“Content Calendar Grid”: colorful cubic calendar shapes“Shortcut Keys Burst”: keys popping in neon bursts“Effortless Workflow Tunnel”: smooth tunnel with design icons“Time-Saver Stopwatch”: 3D clock with Canva icons“Global Trainer’s Stage”: platform with globe & spotlight“Creative Content Rocket”: launching rocket made of posts“Visual Brand DNA Strand”: double helix of logo elements“East Trade Winds Hub”: hub connection nodes with wind swirls Call to ActionSmall and medium-sized businesses: Want to streamline your content production, stay on-brand, and save hours every week?👉 Watch Thea’s YouTube video 👉 Connect with her through the links above👉 Join our East Trade Winds Tuesday event (8‑9 AM EST) by registering here: Zoom RegistrationMeet top Canva experts and gain tools to grow your creative impact! Disclaimer: Please note that the East Trade Winds podcast episodes are meant solely for educational and general informational purposes. The information and opinions contained within are not intended to be professional advice on any subject matter. The thoughts, views, and opinions expressed by the participants are their own beliefs and do not represent the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations.It is important to note that this podcast is not a replacement for consulting with certified experts in your area who possess knowledge of your unique situation. The hosts of the podcast, along with any participants or affiliated groups, do not take responsibility for any actions taken or not taken based on the information presented in this episode.It is highly recommended that individuals seek guidance from their advisors in fields such as accounting, law, or other pertinent areas prior to undertaking any actions or making decisions that may impact their financial, legal, or other aspects of life.
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    8 分
  • Ignite Your Podcast Journey Today
    2025/06/12

    The problem Carl solves in one short sentence: Launching a podcast feels too hard—too much time, cost, tech, and content.


    Welcome to East Trade Winds with your hosts Bernie Franzgrote and Wayne Pratt. In this episode, we sit down with Carl Richards of Podcast Solutions Made Simple. With decades in radio and podcasting, Carl shares how entrepreneurs can start and grow podcasts that truly connect.

    He dives into the most common struggles—like lack of time, tight budgets, content creation stress, and tech overwhelm. But more importantly, Carl gives solutions. He introduces his Podcast Co-op model, where creators team up to produce professional-quality shows together—sharing the load, lowering the cost, and raising the bar.

    Carl also talks about why early planning is key and how collaboration leads to better podcasts. Whether you're podcast-curious or ready to scale, this episode is packed with tips you can use today.

    🎥 Watch the full interview on YouTube: https://youtu.be/riw-hS7yVng

    Key Topics Covered:

    1. Top podcasting challenges—and how to solve them
    2. The Podcast Co‑op model explained
    3. How to plan your podcast content from the start
    4. Why collaboration leads to better shows
    5. Simple tech tips for getting started fast

    Supporting Mention Honorees:

    • Bernie Franzgrote, co-host of East Trade Winds (LinkedIn)
    • Wayne Pratt, co-host of East Trade Winds (LinkedIn)

    Guest Links & Resources:

    • Carl RichardsPodcast Solutions Made Simple
    • Learn more about the Podcast Co-op approach to shared content creation

    👉 Call to Action:

    🗓️ Register for the East Trade Winds Online Event:
    https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUlf-msrzktGdz-UTwX8Tv6CK5Lu3tacGI9


    Have questions or need help launching your podcast? Reach out to us at info@kreativinsight.com .

    Disclaimer: Please note that the East Trade Winds podcast episodes are meant solely for educational and general informational purposes. The information and opinions contained within are not intended to be professional advice on any subject matter. The thoughts, views, and opinions expressed by the participants are their own beliefs and do not represent the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations.

    It is important to note that this podcast is not a replacement for consulting with certified experts in your area who possess knowledge of your unique situation. The hosts of the podcast, along with any participants or affiliated groups, do not take responsibility for any actions taken or not taken based on the information presented in this episode.

    It is highly recommended that individuals seek guidance from their advisors in fields such as accounting, law, or other pertinent areas prior to undertaking any actions or making decisions that may impact their financial, legal, or other aspects of life.

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    10 分
  • Revolutionize Your Sales Strategy
    2025/06/05

    How do you sell confidently without sounding pushy or salesy?

    In this episode of East Trade Winds, hosts Bernie Franzgrote and Wayne Pratt sit down with Mark Kempf, the mind behind the “Quoin Principle” and author of Unfurl Your Sales.

    With over 40 years of experience in insurance sales, Mark breaks down a slow-paced, respectful, and trust-first sales approach designed for today's buyers—especially suited for startups and solopreneurs who feel overwhelmed by high-pressure tactics.

    You’ll hear how:

    • The Quoin Principle can help you structure natural sales conversations.
    • To make testimonial letters your best sales tool—without sounding scripted.
    • Slower, intentional selling builds stronger client relationships and longer-term wins.

    Whether you’re just getting started or looking to reinvent your sales approach, Mark brings timeless strategies for building trust and closing sales with grace.

    🔗 Resources & Links:

    • Connect with Mark Kempf on LinkedIn: Mark Kempf
    • Get his book Unfurl Your Sales: Unfurl Your Sales
    • Watch this episode on YouTube: Revolutionize Your Sales Strategy

    📩 Got questions or want to connect? Email us at info@kreativinsight.com

    🎯 Ready to take action?

    • Watch the YouTube episode for deeper insight and practical examples.
    • Connect with Mark Kempf to start rethinking your sales today.
    • Join our next East Trade Winds Tuesday event (8–9 AM EST) for more conversations like this with top business leaders.
      ➡️ Register Here

    Disclaimer: Please note that the East Trade Winds podcast episodes are meant solely for educational and general informational purposes. The information and opinions contained within are not intended to be professional advice on any subject matter. The thoughts, views, and opinions expressed by the participants are their own beliefs and do not represent the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations.

    It is important to note that this podcast is not a replacement for consulting with certified experts in your area who possess knowledge of your unique situation. The hosts of the podcast, along with any participants or affiliated groups, do not take responsibility for any actions taken or not taken based on the information presented in this episode.

    It is highly recommended that individuals seek guidance from their advisors in fields such as accounting, law, or other pertinent areas prior to undertaking any actions or making decisions that may impact their financial, legal, or other aspects of life.

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    15 分
  • Delve Deep and Illuminate Client Needs
    2025/06/05

    Problem Solved: Traditional lead generation methods often fail to engage and convert ideal clients effectively.

    Summary:

    In this enlightening episode of the East Trade Winds podcast, hosts Bernie Franzgrote and Wayne Pratt welcome Catharine O'Leary, renowned as the "Quiz Queen" from SMART Quiz Solutions.
    With over 30 years of experience in market research and consumer insights for Fortune 100 companies, Catharine shares her expertise on transforming conversations into conversions using AI-powered quiz funnels.

    Catharine delves into the limitations of outdated lead generation tactics and introduces a more focused, client-intelligence approach.
    She emphasizes the importance of engaging with clients beyond the initial sale, leveraging AI tools to understand client needs deeply, and building strong, authentic relationships for sustained business growth.

    Key Topics Covered:

    • The shortcomings of traditional lead generation methods
    • The power of AI-driven quizzes in understanding client needs
    • The five Ps of business intelligence: Production, Prompting, Probing, Pattern Recognition, and Personalization
    • Case studies of successful brands like Nike, Amazon, Netflix, Airbnb, and Spotify implementing these principles

    Guest Links & Resources:

    • Website: catharineoleary.com
    • LinkedIn: Catharine O'Leary
    • Free Tool: joincianow.com – Answer 4 quick questions about your business and receive a 9-page Ideal Client Profile report packed with insights

    📩 Call to Action:

    Ready to attract your ideal clients and grow your business?
    Reach out to us at info@kreativinsight.com for more information and support.

    Disclaimer: Please note that the East Trade Winds podcast episodes are meant solely for educational and general informational purposes. The information and opinions contained within are not intended to be professional advice on any subject matter. The thoughts, views, and opinions expressed by the participants are their own beliefs and do not represent the views of the podcast hosts or any affiliated organizations.

    It is important to note that this podcast is not a replacement for consulting with certified experts in your area who possess knowledge of your unique situation. The hosts of the podcast, along with any participants or affiliated groups, do not take responsibility for any actions taken or not taken based on the information presented in this episode.

    It is highly recommended that individuals seek guidance from their advisors in fields such as accounting, law, or other pertinent areas prior to undertaking any actions or making decisions that may impact their financial, legal, or other aspects of life.

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    17 分