Dinesen Financial owner Vanessa Dinesen has been assisting individuals and small-to mid-sized companies in Peterborough and the Kawarthas for 10 years, with everything from tax preparation to data entry, accounting services to virtual assistant duties. (Photo courtesy of Dinesen Financial)
Vanessa Dinesen doesn’t mind her own business, figuratively speaking.
In fact, the owner of Dinesen Financial makes it her business to help business owners with the mundane tasks that compete for their attention on any given day, so their time is better spent focusing on the big picture, like strategy and growth.
For 10 years, the Peterborough-based financial services company has been assisting small-to mid-sized companies with keeping track of their fundamental financials, with everything from bookkeeping to personal tax returns to financial statements.
“Whether you have a year’s worth of records to sort through and calculate into financial statements, need help jump-starting your business, creating a budget, or you need a trustworthy bookkeeper to take over, I can be of service in all those areas,” says Vanessa.
Some businesses lack financial clarity and it’s important that the owners understand the details of managing their money wisely, she adds.
“I translate financial details into a language that is clear to my clients, no matter what stage of growth they are working on, so they can make informed business decisions.”
With a post-secondary education in Business Administration and Accounting, Vanessa Dinesen’s knowledge of financial topics is extensive, including payroll, budget planning as well as assisting new entrepreneurs in business set-up, teaching small business bookkeeping or setting up computerized business bookkeeping. (Photo courtesy of Emma-lee Art & Photography)
To make life even more manageable for business owners, Dinesen Financial recently expanded its services to include virtual assistant duties, working remotely to help clients with administrative tasks and technical and creative assistance.
For businesses, Vanessa can handle their online presence and office communications, conduct research, maintain customer relations, and keep them organized.
“Obviously bookkeeping and income tax services are a priority and take precedence over everything else, but I can help populate databases and manage events and social media business accounts as well.”
Vanessa considers her services a game changer for almost any business.
“If you’re spending more time supporting your business instead of growing it, you’re not making the best use of your efforts,” she adds.
With a head for numbers and a flair for enterprise, Vanessa, who was born and raised in Peterborough, says the road paved to entrepreneurism was a given for her.
The impetus to dabble in sales started she was 16-years-old, selling Avon products door-to-door in Peterborough, with her mom signing orders for her at the time because she wasn’t of legal age to sell. Door-to-door sales, she says, gave her ample business training, allowing her to both hone her powers of persuasion and, at times, overcome rejection.
Naturally after high school, she pursued an advanced diploma in Business Administration – Accounting at Fleming College, followed by an Honours Degree in Business Administration at Trent University. Vanessa says her studies allowed her “to be methodological, very organized and reliable.”
The journey that followed was employment in a corporate role that demanded much of her time while trying to start a new family.
As her brood grew over the years, the numbers-savvy mom realized that she was struggling to find a work-life balance and that she needed to reevaluate how she spent her time.
“Despite the opportunities, I realized the job simply wasn’t worth the endless demands,” says Vanessa. “I was missing out on spending quality time with my kids.”
Dinesen Financial is operated by Vanessa and her husband, Wayne Dinesen. Wayne works more on the technical side of things, including website development and updates and IT infrastructure. (Photo courtesy of Dinesen Financial)
So, she took a leap of faith and started her own business: Dinesen Financial. Vanessa’s husband, Wayne, also joined her working on the technical side of things, including website development and updates, and IT infrastructure.
A self-professed “student for life,” Vanessa continues to learn by keeping up-to-date on the latest trends and business practices in her industry through webinars with the Government of Canada and the Institute of Professional Bookkeepers Canada.
For many, raising a young family and running a business seems like a daunting task; however, Vanessa says, she and Wayne wouldn’t have it any other way.
Now with six kids in total, ranging from eight-months-old to 15-years-old, Vanessa admits that it can be tricky to make sure that both work and family life run smoothly, but says that she does her best to practice what she preaches.
“I’m learning how to live in the present. Regardless, at the end of the day, family is our top priority.”
Vanessa is also a huge supporter of local women in business.
“It’s important that we champion the ideas and amplify the voices of women in our community and support them in their business ventures,” Vanessa adds.
After attending a Mompreneurs conference in Toronto 2013, Vanessa realized there wasn’t anything like it in her hometown. Soon after, she started a Mompreneurs chapter in Peterborough, with the goal to support, educate and empower moms throughout their journey in entrepreneurship. She offered monthly educational workshops and an opportunity for Mompreneur members to grow their network and connect with other women in business.
In 2016, along with a few local businesswomen, Vanessa helped launch the Women Excelling in Business group. Until 2017, the group offered members a monthly podcast, webinars and articles based on business experts, along with monthly workshops and networking meetings. (Photo courtesy of Emma-lee Art & Photography)
In 2016, she launched the Women Excelling in Business group with fellow Women’s Business Network of Peterborough (WBN) members, Diane Wolf and Christine Teixeira. The women offered members a monthly podcast, webinars and articles based on business experts, along with monthly workshops and networking meetings. After a year, the group decided to discontinue as the trio’s own businesses were growing and needed their full attention.
In her spare time, Vanessa volunteers at her children’s school as treasurer for the parent council, and donates her time as local coordinator for the Peterborough Shoebox Project which collects and distributes gifts in the form of Shoeboxes to women in local shelters and outreach centres.
And although that adds to her plate, as she describes it, this helps her make meaningful contributions and connections in her community.
Ironically, for Vanessa, starting her own business means that she is now busier than ever.
Even though many Canadians have wrapped up filing for the fiscal year 2017 tax season, she says it’s not too early to start thinking about next year with tax preparation and filing.
“Tax season can be stressful, but I like to pride myself in that I can take that burden from my clients,” says Vanessa. “I want to help them make money and give them security. Ultimately their success equals my success.”
Brenda Cowan is the owner and operator of The Ear Depot, which has three locations in Peterborough, Bancroft, and Barry's Bay. Brenda and her team at The Ear Depot are primarily focused on understanding their clients' hearing health care needs. (Supplied photo)
Hearing loss is isolating and it can be terrifying but, in both mild and extreme cases, when Brenda Cowan uses her 30-plus years of experience to restore hearing to her clients at The Ear Depot, it is life changing.
“When people can hear again and when they can have a conversation again, it is so rewarding because you know that their life has been turned around,” Brenda says.
Sometimes there are tears and sometimes hugs and. according to Brenda, helping someone get to hear familiar sounds and voices again will never get old.
“It feels good when you know that someone is going to go back to enjoying life again,” she explains. “That’s what we do here.”
At The Ear Depot, the whole team believes that everyone deserves to hear clearly, and this simple philosophy is what they offer to their clients in Peterborough, Bancroft and Barry’s Bay.
It’s not about selling hearing aids — it’s about helping someone enjoy life again, but this can take time and whole lot of effort which is why a first appointment at The Ear Depot can take 90 minutes, involving lots of questions about the hearing loss, and also, about a client’s lifestyle.
“We’re cultivating relationships, and we’re also digging for clues,” Brenda says.
The Ear Depot team: Linda Goodman, Matt Paige, owner Brenda Cowan, Donna LeMaitre, Cindy Handke, and Brenda Telford. (Supplied photo)
Brenda puts a lot of emphasis on the culture that she and her team have built. Her team knows that they have only a few seconds to make someone feel relaxed and comfortable when they walk through the door. This ease and inevitably, this trust, is important to develop, especially when so many hearing aid providers are known for quick sales and expensive products.
Once her clients are relaxed and their consultations are done, she and her team get to work on testing hearing, checking for ear wax and figuring out what the best steps will be to get clients re-connected to their community through better hearing.
“Conversation made easy is our number one objective,” she explains.
Brenda is proud of her many years in the business and she’s proud that she trained before computers did most of the diagnostic work. Now Brenda makes sure that her team are up to speed with the latest technology, but that their skills are balanced with her old-school approach.
“These days it’s normal for a computer to tell us what to do but my staff are great at telling the computer what to do,” Brenda says. “That’s my training and all the troubleshooting is the science.”
If after extensive testing hearing aids are the way to make conversation easy, Brenda gets to work on product recommendations and then there’s the intricate process of tuning and testing the equipment.
“We do that in a room full of real life sound,” Brenda says.
From its three locations in Peterborough, Bancroft, and Barry’s Bay, The Ear Depot offers professional hearing testing, tinnitus solutions, earwax removal, and hearing aids. (Supplied photo)
And this just makes so much more sense than testing and training in a quiet environment because Brenda’s clients want to hear sounds again — not silence.
Family members are also invited into the sound room and no matter how long it takes, with tuning, testing and client coaching — Brenda does not stop until her clients are satisfied.
Even her clients with incurable tinnitus have life-changing experiences when they are fitted with new, finely tuned devices.
“We help people who are suffering, and they are amazed when they find out that there are products that can control the tinnitus and that there is masking (of the symptoms) without any amplification,” she explains. “This makes a huge difference when people have given up or are depressed and isolated because of their symptoms.”
Brenda wishes people would come to see her as soon as they notice even a small change in their ability to hear because when hearing loss occurs, conversation stops and that’s not something Brenda wants anyone to ever experience as long as she is able to share her skills, experience and passion for restoring hearing to clients across the region.
The Ear Depot is located at 236 Parkhill Road East in Peterborough (705-749-0707), 229 Hasting Street North in Bancroft (613-332-3754), and 12 Dunn Street in Barry’s Bay (613-756-9550). For more information, visit www.theeardepot.com or email info@theeardepot.com. You can also email Brenda Cowan at brenda@theeardepot.com and connect with The Ear Depot on Facebook and on Twitter.
Diane Wolf (right) with her daughter, entrepreneur Christine Teixeira, at a recent meeting of the Women's Business Network of Peterborough (WBN). Diane, a business consultant and a former business professor, is launching a psychotherapy practice in 2019. She and her daughter Christine are both on the 2018-19 WBN board of directors, a first for the organization. (Photo: WBN)
Perhaps you have heard the saying in business, “Pick one thing and be really good at it.” Diane Wolf’s experience shows that an alternate path exists for entrepreneurs.
Diane, a former business professor at Trent University and the owner of Diane Wolf Consulting, is set to launch her second business in Peterborough: a psychotherapy practice, which she plans to operate concurrently with her business consulting practice.
As a business mentor, Diane can teach you the practical steps for launching a business. She can recommend resources for website development, teach marketing skills and how to network, but perhaps most importantly, she will empower you to recognize and capitalize on your strengths.
“With my business consultation practice, I offer the practical skills you need to take your business or project idea to the next level,” Diane says.
“But I think people need more than just the practical. My goal is to also encourage, educate, and empower my clients. We are all really good at seeing what we don’t do well but many of us need help to recognize our strengths. I’m good at finding out what people are good at.”
And she took her own advice. Diane’s transition back to psychology began with her recognizing her own strengths. Diane has always been interested in psychology, even completing an Honours Bachelor of Science in Psychology before completing her Master of Business Administration.
Whether travelling as an international speaker, working as a translator, teaching business classes, leading professional development workshops, or offering private consultation services, Diane’s passion for psychology has always informed her work.
Early in her career, Diane left her hometown of Peterborough for Europe to work as a translator, where she met her husband of 40 years.
As a business administration professor at Trent University and then as a business consultant, Diane Wolf often functioned as a counsellor as well as a cheerleader for her students and clients. By returning to her first love, psychology, Diane can leverage her unique ability to blend mentorship and counselling. She is completing her masters degree in clinical counselling and will launch her psychotherapy practice upon registration as a psychotherapist with the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. (Supplied photo)
After returning to Peterborough, Diane worked for the school board, teaching German language classes and gaining experience with curriculum development.
She then travelled as an international speaker to the United Kingdom, the North Eastern United States, and all across Canada, teaching presentation skills and leadership skills for women.
Fittingly, when she decided to end her career as an international speaker, a position opened up at Trent University in the business department.
At Trent, Diane taught a variety of courses, including communications, business writing, marketing and management skills, interviewing skills, networking, and even some psychology.
This experience was invaluable to Diane. It was while teaching that she realized her passion for psychology was still strong, and she began to understand how her knowledge of psychology influenced what she was teaching and how she taught it.
“There were moments in my teaching career when students cried in my office and I offered advice and support,” recalls Diane. “That was me being a counsellor.”
These moments became an epiphany for Diane. From teaching she realized her own unique ability to blend mentorship and counselling.
“Those moments in my teaching career helped me realize where my strengths were and what I wanted to do,” she says.
Clients have commented on Diane’s ability to not only offer accurate advice on how to start or develop a business, but to also work with them on the underlying issues that may jeopardize their success.
“I’ve had clients say to me, ‘You’re more like my counsellor'” she says, “A big part of business coaching is telling people they can do something.”
All of this experience led Diane back to her first love: psychology. In April of 2019, Diane will graduate with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Counselling and begin developing her psychotherapy practice.
Diane Wolf (right) with members of the 2017-18 WBN board of directors during the end-of-season celebration in June 2018. Diane is serving on the 2018-19 WBN board as Member Communications Director. (Photo: WBN)
As a counsellor, Diane hopes to help clients work through feelings of grief, loss, depression, and anxiety, and she’ll also offer couples therapy. Diane’s unique and varied experience makes her capable of helping her clients overcome a wide range of obstacles.
Despite this new endeavor, Diane will still be offering business coaching, which she feels has only been enhanced by her second entry into entrepreneurship.
In either capacity, Diane describes herself as a cheerleader for her clients.
“I’ve had a number of clients call me that,” she says, noting she takes great pride in watching her students become better than her at something. “I stand behind my clients and I lift them up.”
Diane Wolf Consulting is located in Peterborough. For more information, contact Diane at 705-772-5654 or diane@dianewolf.com or visit dianewolfconsulting.com. You can also find Diane Wolf Consulting on Facebook.
The Women's Business of Network of Peterborough has made recruiting and retaining younger members a key strategy for the organization. Christine Teixeira, one of the most recent generation of WBN members, is pictured with her mother Diane Wolf. Both women are serving on the 2018-2019 board of directors, a first in the board's history. (Photo: WBN)
For the first time in the history of the Women’s Business of Network of Peterborough (WBN), a mother and daughter (Diane Wolf and Christine Teixeira) are both serving on the organization’s board of directors.
This represents a generational evolution of WBN, as younger women are increasingly joining their more seasoned peers to become part of the pre-eminent business organization for women in the Kawarthas.
This should come as no surprise, as Peterborough is brimming with an impressive talent pool of young females who are building their brands from the ground up, moving up the corporate ladder, and taking on leadership roles.
The Women’s Business of Network of Peterborough has made recruiting and retaining younger members, such as Paula Kehoe and Sana Virji, a key strategy for the organization. This includes ensuring more young businesswomen are part of the organization’s Board of Directors. (Photo: WBN)
Younger women have become a powerful force in today’s competitive business world, representing the best-educated and most ambitious generations of our time. According to Startup Canada — whose co-founder, Victoria Lennox, is the guest speaker at the April 2019 meeting of WBN — female entrepreneurs are growing the Canadian economy, contributing $148 billion annually and employing 1.5 million Canadians.
Keeping this growing female entrepreneurship trend in mind, WBN has made recruiting and retaining younger members a key focus area in their recent five-year strategic plan — a “life insurance policy” of sorts, explains Colleen Carruthers, WBN’s Strategic Planning Director.
“For WBN to be around in the future, a succession strategy is necessary to achieve the long-term goals and ambitions of the organization,” Colleen says.
“The younger generation is our next wave of membership, so it’s important for us to understand what their needs are, what they want out of a professional organization, and to offer programs and benefits with a clear return on investment for them.”
Last year, three younger woman were given seats on the organization’s board — “a first in the history of the board” according to Colleen, adding “it’s essential, as having a young perspective will benefit both the organization and its business model” — and this year the number has grown by one more. Grace Reynolds and Josée Kiss have been joined on this year’s board by Danielle McIver and Christine Teixeira.
At the May 2017 WBN meeting: Rosalea Terry of the Innovation Cluster, SimbiH2O founder Jane Zima, Ribbet co-founder and then WBN Program Director Sana Virji, Chimp Treats CEO and co-founder Brooke Hammer, and then WBN External Communications Director Paula Kehoe after a panel discussion featuring Jane, Sana, and Brooke. (Photo: WBN)
For 57 years, the WBN has been investing in high-impact programs that help advance women in business through education, mentorship, networking and access to growth opportunities. The group gives members a space where they can nurture relationships in a way that feels comfortable, a venue where they make the rules, and a private space that inspires them.
For younger members looking for support, they can find mentors and valuable business leads, hear advice from experts, and even make friends. In return, Colleen says, young businesswomen bring with them fresh ideas and viewpoints, a vibrancy and different experiences that their peers can also learn from.
So, who are some of these young women at the forefront of this surge? We’re proud to feature three WBN members who are leading the charge in Peterborough in their respective sectors, and hear in their own words how a WBN membership has benefitted them.
Dr. Sarah Wild, Chiropractor, Definitive Chiropractic and Wellness Centre
Joined WBN in 2013
Dr. Sarah Wild, Chiropractor, Definitive Chiropractic and Wellness Centre.
Since earning her Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy at the University of Alberta and chiropractic degree from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Dr. Sarah Wild has built her career around helping others to become pain free and to live a healthier life through chiropractic care and healthy living habits.
“I strive to empower and educate my patients to take an active role in their health and overall wellbeing, and I have a passion for treating active-minded patients who want to feel good, function well, and be healthy,” she says.
Sarah offers a holistic approach to chiropractic care for her patients — who range from infants to older adults — and has advanced training in the treatment of headaches and jaw pain, as well as pre- and post-natal and pediatric chiropractic.
She says she discovered the profession of chiropractic when she found relief for her chronic headaches, after many years of trying different medications and therapies.
“Having been a patient myself, I can attest to how life changing chiropractic treatment can be.”
Hailing from South Africa and having lived all over Canada, Sarah made Peterborough her home four years ago and started as an associate at Definitive Chiropractic and Wellness Centre. Her patients are certainly pleased with her care — she was recently named the Best Chiropractor in Peterborough in a readers’ poll conducted by the Peterborough Examiner.
When she’s not performing chiropractic care at her clinic, she can be found teaching fitness classes for moms and tots at CrossFit Ptbo, to help new mothers recover from childbirth and regain their strength, posture, and pre-baby body.
On joining WBN
“When I joined, I didn’t really know the Peterborough area. I really wanted to learn from other people in business, and was drawn to being part of a community of inspiring and strong women. It was relativity easy to go into a group like that and find common ground, whether it was about business or family.
“The WBN provides membership at a reasonable rate and it’s not a huge time commitment. In one meeting, you get a power pack of value. I learn something that can move my business forward or helps me with something that I’m going through personally. The monthly meetings are uplifting and a boost for me, setting me forward for the following month.”
Payoff
“I find the business payoff is making solid contacts in the community that I can tap into. For example, if I need a business advisor or a marketing professional, the first place I’m going to look is in the WBN member directory.”
Advice
“I always try to get my business colleagues and friends to come along to a meeting as my guest. If you’re new to town, just join. Where else can you surround yourself with powerful, inspiring local women, and learn from leaders in business every month for a very reasonable price?”
After 15 years of living in the nation’s capital articling and working with some of Ottawa’s well-respected law firms, Martha Sullivan decided to return to her family roots in Peterborough last spring.
Having opened her own practice in April in downtown Peterborough, Martha is a shining example of independence and drive. Now the lead lawyer at Sullivan Law Ptbo, Martha attended the University of Ottawa, where she earned her Bachelor of Laws in 2009; her call to the Bar was the following year.
Martha’s office specializes in real estate, family law and wills and estates. Ensuring that clients feel comfortable and confident throughout their legal matter is the foundation of her client-focused approach to practicing law.
“Getting to do what I am passionate about and serving the Peterborough community is a great privilege,” she says. “Practicing law is a business; however, being a safe-keeper of our client’s trust is great responsibility which I respect deeply.”
Martha’s experience and talents litigating, negotiating and finding creative solutions led to her being empanelled with both the Family Responsibility Office and the Office of the Children’s Lawyer. She’s currently in the process of completing her training to be a certified collaborative family lawyer and mediator.
On joining WBN
“I’ve always been passionate and enjoyed the law; however, the business side of practicing law is something I haven’t had as much experience with. So to have the opportunity to meet other people who have those strengths and talents and to be exposed to that is wonderful.”
Payoff
“Having a membership has helped me feel connected and supported in the business community. For me though, it’s about the bigger picture. Everyone goes to those meetings with enthusiasm about being in business. Sometimes, as small business owners, we get lost in the urgent and sometimes we forget to stop working in our business and start working on our business.
“The WBN meetings are a chance for me to take a step back and see the forest, and not just the trees.”
Advice
“A membership is really what you make of it; the opportunities are there for you to grab onto. It has to be a priority of course not to just go to the meetings, but to go with the right energy and enthusiasm to be able to take in the information that is presented and learn from it.”
For more information about Sullivan Law Ptbo, visit sullivanlawptbo.ca. You can also follow Sullivan Law Ptbo on Facebook or Twitter.
Emily Ferguson, Resource Development Manager, Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region
Joined WBN in 2012
Emily Ferguson, Resource Development Manager, Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region.
The first time Emily Ferguson had ever swung a hammer was six years ago when she was framing walls for Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build project. She was working alongside her Fleming Collage teammates — a group of dedicated volunteers taking part in a blitz build to transform a blank slab into a cozy home.
Today, as resource development manager with Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region, she spends most of her days overseeing the organization’s Women Build Program and Youth Program, ensuring volunteers are ready to their wield hammers on build sites — not just to build homes, but build hope and a community for a family.
“It’s a very empowering and fulfilling role that I hold near and dear to my heart,” she says.
Emily wears many hats in her role: she manages volunteers and community programs, cultivates new relationships with donors and partners, runs special events, and does several other jobs throughout their community.
The 2017 Women Build campaign launched in July to put a face to the fundraising teams and future home owners. In mid-September, hundreds of volunteers are expected to take part in the build. Ferguson says Women Build is helpful not just for families, but also for the women who volunteer and are passionate about Habitat’s mission.
“These women are community leaders, great fundraisers, compassionate and community-minded.”
On joining WBN
“My job is to get out in the community and meet people, as well as potential donors, partners and sponsors. WBN has made me a better networker and has taken me out of my comfort zone.”
Payoff
“The opportunity to have an exhibitor table has always been beneficial for Habitat. That is when I get to engage with women one-on-one. These days, it’s hard to pick up the phone and make cold calls or send emails and get a response. At the WBN, when you have that hour to do the networking and exhibitor table, you get to put a face to some of the names and then you make an initial connection.
“It’s the assumption that women come here to talk business and grow their own business networks, but I think what gets missed a lot is the charitable work and commitments that a lot of these women do in the community. A number of WBN members each year champion our cause, raise funds, come out on the build site and get their hands dirty to build homes. They are more than fundraisers for us; they are advocates.”
Advice
“It’s an opportunity for both professional and personal growth. I encourage friends who are thinking of stating their own business or doing small-scale professional things to go to a member meeting. It will help with your networking abilities and get your name out there. It might feel intimidating at first, but the group is very welcoming. Eventually you’ll find your place there.”
For more information about Habitat for Humanity Peterborough & Kawartha Region and the Women Build program, visit www.habitatpeterborough.ca. You can also follow them on Facebook and Twitter.
Sue Simmons, owner of Equinox Family Consulting Ltd., created her signature program "Lemons to Lemonade Better Behaviour Bootcamp" in 2017. The online group coaching program for moms of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) gives ASD moms the tools to manage difficult behaviour and to feel competent as parents. (Supplied graphic)
Special to kawarthaNOW.com
Sue Simmons is on a mission to give Autism Moms back their power!
“Moms of ASD children have been given the unspoken message that they’re unqualified to help their children; that they belong in the back seat of the bus. I’m out to change this,” says Sue.
Her journey began the day her five-year-old son was diagnosed with autism. For two years she and her husband (who would later be loosely diagnosed with Asperger’s) searched for answers. She sought support and involved her son in programs, but nothing helped.
“I felt so incompetent as a parent,” she says. “I was at my wits’ end, consumed with guilt and anxiety. It’s particularly hard for Moms, because they feel so powerless and desperately want to have a loving connection without having to walk on eggshells to prevent meltdowns. They want their child to have quality of life and sacrifice themselves in the process.”
After doing her research and discovering that autism didn’t have to be a life sentence — thanks to the fact that the brain can be shaped through experience — she turned for help to a Relationship Development Intervention (RDIÒ) consultant. This leading-edge program is based on neurodevelopment and child development and promises to give parents a second chance to build a loving, reciprocal relationship with their child with ASD. Even further, it gives parents and their ASD children the opportunity to enjoy real quality of life.
“I was able to build the connection with my son that I had only dreamed of,” Sue says. “It changed my life, not to mention my son’s.”
She said ‘Goodbye’ to her career in sales and marketing, and went to Houston, Texas to train with the psychologists who developed the evidence-based program. Since 2006, she’s been a Certified RDI Consultant, and guides her clients to reclaim their power, competence and the joy of connection through her business, Equinox Family Consulting Ltd.
Sue Simmons is a certified RDI® Consultant and a certified EFT Practitioner, two methodologies based on neuroplasticity — the ability to change the way our brain works throughout the course of our lives. (Supplied photo)
In 2012, Simmons added additional skills to her toolkit. She earned her Certified Professional Coach credential with the International Coach Academy, to get to the core of the personal pain experienced by Moms of children with ASD. Still, something was missing.
Simmons learned about the fastest-growing mind-body methodology in the world, which reduces stress and anxiety, and can shift negative thinking patterns, so people aren’t at the mercy of their circumstances. She knew all about stress. By that point in her life she not only had a son with autism but was faced with other serious challenges related to physical and mental health in her immediate and extended family.
The technique she discovered is in a leading-edge field “energy psychology” which is called Emotional Freedom Techniques, or EFT — also known as “tapping.” This gentle technique calms the “fight or flight” center of the brain, changing neural connections and reducing or eliminating its neural charge.
“Becoming Certified as an EFT Practitioner was life-altering for me,” she says. “It allowed me to manage my emotions and has freed me from being a slave to my thoughts and worries.”
The fact that tapping had yet to be considered mainstream by some western psychologists when Simmons embraced it is not lost on her, but her own personal experience reinforced its value, and now, the scientific world has uncovered clear evidence of its effectiveness and, of course, the mind-body connection.
“Both my autism work (RDI) and tapping were considered ‘woo woo’ until recently because they’re both focused on building new neural connections; now the concept of neuroplasticity is widely accepted and backed by mountains of research,” Sue says.
In 2017, Simmons set out to reach more people and created her signature program, Lemons to Lemonade Better Behaviour Bootcamp, an online group coaching program for ASD Moms (Moms of children with ASD).
“Prior to creating this program, I did extensive research. I discovered that regardless of whether a child had been in behaviour therapy or not, most Moms didn’t know where to begin to manage their child’s difficult behavior. I realized that if I could teach them these skills, this would open the door for them to build a more positive and loving connection with their child.
“The program gives Moms the tools to manage difficult behaviour, and to feel competent as parents. It’s an eight-week online program that Moms can do from the comfort of their own home. It’s wonderful because as they learn and grow they can connect with other Moms who share the same challenges. It’s so exciting to see them experience ‘aha’ moments and realizing that they have the power to make change in their own families!”
Her program helps Moms break through the shame and guilt they experience because they don’t know where to start. Throughout the eight weeks they learn critical skills to reduce the duration and frequency of meltdowns and shift negative patterns that have developed between child and parent. They learn to communicate in a way that reduces nagging and power struggles. Self-care is also a key component.
“In order to help our children, we need to learn to look after ourselves in a manageable way,” Sue explains. “Self-care isn’t a nice to do — it’s a ‘need to do’.”
“We can get back in the driver’s seat, and feel competent,” she adds.
This is exactly what she’s done, and with a laugh, she says, “Trust me, I’ve had my share of difficulty.”
“Once I saw how I could give Moms the skills to take back their power; to manage difficult behavior, feel competent as a parent and build a more loving connection with their child, it was a calling. How could I do anything else? It’s a great honor to do this work.”
Equinox Family Consulting Ltd. is located in Peterborough. For more information, call 705-875-4605, email simmons@bell.net or visit www.equinoxfamilyconsulting.com. You can also follow Equinox Family Consulting Ltd. on Facebook.
For more information about the Lemons to Lemonade Better Behaviour Bootcamp, visit www.lemonstolemonade.mom. Sue also also runs the Facebook group Lemons to Lemonade – ASD Mom’s Group, an online community for moms of ASD children to gain support and knowledge about what they can do to bring balance, calm, and control back to their household.
Whether you're a young entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, the Women's Business Network of Peterborough provides many opportunities for networking, business promotion and exposure, and professional growth, support and mentorship. (Photo: WBN)
The Women’s Business Network of Peterborough (WBN) is a resource for women to make valuable contacts, promote their business, and develop lasting relationships with other local women in business.
There are many ways to get involved. As with any networking group, the more you use the opportunities, the more you gain in exposure and connections.
Here are some of the opportunities WBN offers its members throughout the entire year:
Hosting a Business Spotlight, like this one at Tiny Greens Plant Cafe, is a fun and casual way to introduce fellow members to your business. (Photo: WBN)
Hosted at members’ places of business, the Spotlight event introduces fellow members to businesses in the Kawarthas, to raise awareness and gain new customers.
Upcoming Business Spotlight events in the fall of 2018 include: Camp Kawartha on Wednesday, September 19th, with more Business Spotlights to be announced soon.
At WBN meetings, members can book promotional booths in the networking area in advance of dinner. Booths can be booked for any month simply by visiting the WBN website. (Photo: WBN)
Members can showcase their products and services with an exhibitor table at meetings for $20. Tables are booked on a first-come, first-served basis for members only.
Advertise in WBN’s monthly newsletter
WBN’s monthly newsletter offers an inexpensive and effective way to promote your business.
A variety of advertising opportunities are available in the WBN e-newsletter and e-blasts sent to hundreds of businesses in our community.
Promote your business activities in free WBN newsletter announcements
Keep the membership informed about your business in the Member News and Community Events sections of the WBN newsletter.
The types of information you can share include notices, changes, additions, updates, new products and services, special events, fundraisers, member to member discounts, and celebrations.
Write a feature article for the WBN website blog and newsletter
By writing a feature article for the WBN website blog and newsletter, you can educate and inform the membership about your expertise in your industry.
Share how you and your business have grown from the podium
Going along with WBN’s 2018-19 theme “Better Together”, this is an opportunity at each member meeting to share with fellow members and guests how the WBN has helped you and your business grow.
The concept: from the podium, two members will have the opportunity to share who invited them to their first meeting or how they first heard about WBN, how long they have been a member, and what about WBN has made them or their business stronger or better, in five minutes, for $20.
Make connections
Attend the WBN monthly meeting with social hour and dinner
WBN meetings allow you to connect with different women each month at your dinner table. The WBN facilitator at the table will lead the discussion and ensure everyone has an opportunity to introduce themselves. (Photo: WBN)
Every month from September to June, WBN hosts a member meeting on a Wednesday night, usually at the Holiday Inn Waterfront in downtown Peterborough.
The evening begins with a networking hour at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. and an engaging and inspiring guest speaker at 7:30 p.m.
If you’re not a WBN member and want to experience a member meeting, you can attend as a guest.
Access to WBN’s full membership directory
As a WBN member, you have access to the complete membership list, including member contact information and headshots.
It’s a great way to become familiar with other members and to develop new networking and business opportunities.
Community involvement through charitable activities and donations
WBN is a proud supporter of YWCA Peterborough Haliburton’s Crossroads Shelter. Here Anne Arnold and Corinna Campbell of YWCA Peterborough Haliburton accept a $20,064.84 cheque from WBN Program Directors Sana Virji and Lori McKee, raised by members during WBN’s annual fundraising Holiday Gala and Auction. (Photo: WBN)
The WBN is a proud supporter of YWCA Peterborough Haliburton’s Crossroads Shelter, a temporary home where women and children can escape domestic violence and rebuild their lives. WBN has been supporting the Crossroads Shelter since 1983 and, every December, holds a fundraising Holiday Gala and Auction.
As well as WBN’s support of the Crossroads Shelter, many WBN members are involved in individual community and fundraising activities throughout the year.
Grow professionally
See top keynote speakers each month at member meetings
WBN member meetings feature high-calibre keynote speakers. Denise Donlon, best known for her time as VJ, producer, and vice-president and general manager of MuchMusic, was the keynote speaker at the inaugural 2017-18 meeting of WBN. There are also many opportunities throughout the year to learn, engage and promote at WBN trade shows and booths. (Photo: Meghan Moloney)
WBN hosts engaging, inspiring and educational keynote speakers at its member meetings every month from September to June.
Last year’s speakers included: Denise Donlon; Leslie Bradford-Scott; Laila Ghattas; Annual Member Tradeshow featuring Lori McKee; Colleen Carruthers and Gwyneth James; Brenda Halloran; Peterborough Business Excellence Awards panel featuring Catia Skinner, Jennifer Garland, Brenda Ibey, and Christine Watts; Faith Dickinson; Tessa Smith; and Susan McLennan.
Guest speakers for 2018-19 include: Tracey Ormond, Monika Carmichael, and Heather Doughty (September 5th); Jocasta Boone (October 3rd); Parmees Yazdanyar (November 7th); Colleen Carruthers (January 9th); Louisa Jewell (February 6th); and Victoria Lennox (April 3rd); with more speakers to be announced.
Attend Lunch Box Learning workshops at the Chamber of Commerce
The Greater Peterborough Chamber of Commerce hosts monthly Lunch Box Learning seminars in the Chamber’s boardroom. This noon-hour series is free for Chamber members and WBN members interested in professional development and connecting with fellow members.
You are invited to bring your lunch along with you, and have the opportunity to listen to a short presentation, followed by a Q&A session.
Christine Teixeira, owner of Accountability Financial, has transferred the problem-solving skills and attention to detail she acquired from her former engineering career into her successful bookkeeping business. (Supplied photo)
What do engineering and bookkeeping have in common? Quite a lot, as Christine Teixeira, owner of Accountability Financial, found out.
Shortly after high school, Christine left Peterborough to pursue a highly competitive engineering degree at the University of Waterloo. She then worked for 12 years in the environmental engineering field, including as a Senior Engineer at Cambium.
Despite her success, Christine found herself in a position many can relate to. She was struggling to find balance between two young children at home, involvement in the local community, and a busy professional life.
She decided to make a change by pursuing a life long goal: starting her own business.
Christine is now the proud owner of Accountability Financial, a Peterborough-based financial services company which provides bookkeeping and income tax preparation services to small and medium-sized businesses.
She credits her background as an engineer with providing her the skills that are crucial to bookkeeping.
“My engineering background has made me attentive to details and experienced with problem solving,” says Christine, emphasizing that this sets her apart from other bookkeepers.
Christine views her role as much more than data entry and financial tracking.
“My goal is to empower business owners,” she says.
She leans heavily on her engineering background to achieve this goal, noting that the ability to recognize issues and address them was key to her success as an engineer. She seeks to do the same with her financial services.
“I act as a trusted advisor for my clients. I pride myself on going that extra step and strive to be the first person my clients call because they know I can provide the correct information.”
In addition, Christine manages traditional tasks associated with bookkeeping. She keeps track of important deadlines for small business owners, such as HST, payroll, WSIB reporting, among others.
In the testimonial section on her website, clients describe Christine’s work as fast and efficient — with excellent attention to detail. Clients praise her ability to keep them organized, allowing them to focus on running their business.
Christine is also a certified ProAdvisor for QuickBooks, a widely-used accounting software for small business, and can act as a manager of QuickBooks accounts, or as a software consultant.
Christine recently participated in the Starter Company Plus program administered by the Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development Business Advisory Centre. The detailed business plan she created in the program secured her a grant that she used to help hire a staff person to meet the growing demands of her business. (Photo: Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development)
Recently, Christine participated in Starter Company Plus, a program funded by the Government of Ontario and administered by the Peterborough & the Kawarthas Economic Development Advisory Centre. The program is designed to provide business training for entrepreneurs.
The competition for this program was strong, with 50 applicants vying for only 15 spots.
Christine was one of seven entrepreneurs awarded a grant by a panel of judges based on her pitch of her detailed business plan, which she developed while in the program. The program helped Christine gain a clearer sense of direction to grow her business.
“I was at a point where I needed to either turn clients away or hire help,” Christine explains. “I now have a staff member working for me to meet the growing demand. I’m thrilled that my business has created employment within the local community.”
Christine has always had a passion for math and finance, which led her to complete a Small Business Accounting Certificate at Fleming College and launch Accountability Financial in 2015. She continues to learn by keeping up-to-date on the latest market trends in her field.
“One study I reviewed showed that 50% of small businesses fail in the first five years,” she says. “But, if small businesses have a bookkeeper, their chance of success in making it past the first five years is 85%.”
As Christine says, there is no reason not to use a bookkeeper, and she’s confident she’ll keep your business on track.
Christine’s involvement in the community extends beyond her ability to assist local businesses. She is also a member of the Women’s Business Network of Peterborough (WBN), a networking channel for women business owners.
This year will be her first year on the board and as Treasurer for WBN, a role she is looking forward to filling for the next two years.
“I was raised in Peterborough and have lived here pretty much my whole life,” says Christine. “It’s great to be involved with this amazing community.”
Accountability Financial is located at 117 Farrier Crescent in Peterborough. For more information on how Accountability Financial can help your business, visit accountabilityfinancial.ca, call 705-957-2835, or email christine@accountabilityfinancial.ca. You can also find Accountability Financial on Facebook and Twitter.
Shelley Barker (left) with co-worker Lisa Hunter of BDO First Call Debt Solutions, which has been helping Canadians find the best solution for their individual needs since 1958. (Supplied photo)
When you are feeling the crushing weight of financial stress, it’s important to understand that there are solutions that will help you leave your debt behind.
Shelley Barker is an Insolvency Administrator at BDO First Call Debt Solutions, and she can help you find the right solution to dig your way out of debt.
“People come in feeling hopeless about their financial situation and we give them hope,” Shelley explains. “What our team does each day is really rewarding.”
Certified through the Canadian Association of Insolvency and Restructuring Professionals (CAIRP), Shelley is a financial counsellor, and specializes in helping individuals reduce their debt, eliminate interest and create manageable budgets.
With 10 years of experience helping local people get their lives back on track, she’s always ready to help people make a plan for a debt-free future.
Shelley says she always liked math, numbers, and problem solving. After separating from her husband, she was forced to watch and track her own spending to stay afloat. She had to take a close look at credit cards, a mortgage and once she started plugging everything into an Excel spreadsheet — it started to make sense and she was ready to make a plan.
“That finally gave me a sense of control,” she says. “Anyone can be successful as long as you are aware and, as long as you keep track, you can budget and save money.”
And while Shelley loves teaching people how to move forward and be resilient, usually there are fires to put out first.
“Most people are already in crisis when they come to see us,” she says. “I wish people would come in earlier because I want people to know that debt does not need to be an emergency.”
When a person books a first free consultation, with BDO First Call Debt Solutions a team of debt help professionals, including a Licensed Insolvency Trustee will spend time asking detailed questions, explaining all available debt solutions and building a relationship. If a consumer proposal or bankruptcy is necessary, they guide people through the process, and provide budget advice and credit counselling to get them back on their feet again.
“We always rule out all other solutions before we recommend bankruptcy.,” Shelly admits. “But sometimes bankruptcy is the best option. And if it is, we can talk about the worries that you have, such as losing your car or your home.”
The BDO First Call Debt Solutions team works with individuals, helping them get through every stage of debt recovery, so that they can move forward with new tools, skills and abilities. “This does not have to be the end of the world,” she says calmly. “We will help you plan for the future and you can have credit again.”
You can find BDO First Call Debt Solutions at The Heritage Plaza (Unit 8, 550 Lansdowne St. W., Peterborough) or you can schedule a meeting with them by calling 705-742-7560. For more information, visit debtsolutions-peterborough.ca.
Mortgage broker Grace Reynolds at home with her Best Newcomer Agent award from the Mortgage Awards of Excellence in May 2018. Along with her award-winning work as a broker, Grace is also involved with supporting the local community and she is serving the second year of her term on the board of the Women's Business Network of Peterborough. (Photo: Amy Bowen / kawarthaNOW.com)
Grace Reynolds is a people person.
Originally from Edmonton, Alberta, Grace is the daughter of Vietnamese parents who immigrated to Canada as refugees. She’s the youngest of five girls and a proud first-generation Canadian who, since childhood, has always enjoyed helping people.
“Whether I was working in the service industry as I went to school, coaching younger girls in cheerleading, or volunteering on a fundraising committee, helping others has always been a priority of mine,” says Grace, a licensed mortgage broker who has been working in Peterborough for the last two years.
Grace started a Bachelor of Commerce at MacEwan University in Edmonton, later finishing her degree at Carleton University after relocating to Ontario. She also holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Algonquin College in Ottawa.
Three years ago, Grace moved to Peterborough to be closer to her husband’s family, and she saw it as the perfect time to start her own business. For Grace, becoming a licensed mortgage broker allowed her to blend her passion for helping people with her background in commerce.
One of Grace’s assets is her ability to relate to her clients.
“I understand the feeling of working hard for your money,” she says, having juggled three jobs at one point while she worked her way through school.
Grace credits her strong work ethic and people skills with helping her break into the Peterborough business scene. Despite the time it takes to build up a business, especially in a new city, Grace has seen a great deal of progress within the last two years.
Grace Reynolds (centre) with her Best Newcomer Agent award at the Mortgage Awards of Excellence in May 2018. Also pictured are two of the head team members from Verico Financial Group Inc., the top mortgage broker network in Canada, of which Grace is a member. (Supplied photo)
Grace was nominated for Best Newcomer Agent at the Canadian Mortgage Awards this year, and won the award for Best Newcomer Agent with less than two years in the industry at the Mortgage Awards of Excellence in May 2018. She was also recently recognized as one of Canada’s Mortgage Professionals Top Young Guns for 2018.
In addition to her award-winning work as a broker, Grace has also become passionately involved with the local community.
Grace is a proud member of both the Business Network International (BNI) group and the Women’s Business Network of Peterborough (WBN). She currently serves as Vice-President for the BNI and is going into her second year of being on the WBN board as Secretary.
Grace was also part of The Mombassadors, a group of 13 local women who came together to fundraise for a new fetal monitor for the Labour and Delivery Unit at the Peterborough Regional Health Centre. In mid-May of this year, the group hosted a Girl’s Night Out at Aria Nightclub in downtown Peterborough, surpassing their fundraising goal of $30,000.
Since moving to Peterborough three years ago, Grace Reynolds (third from right) has taken an active role in the community. She was one of 13 local women who formed The Mombassadors to raise funds for a new fetal monitor at the Peterborough Regional Health Centre. (Photo: PRHC Foundation)
“It was amazing to be part of this powerful group of women and to raise money for something that will help so many new mothers and babies,” says Grace. “I’ve enjoyed getting to know people in the Peterborough community and developing my business here.”
One need not spend a great deal of time with Grace to understand that her knowledge of the industry, combined with her genuine desire to help her clients, sets her apart from other mortgage brokers. She knows that when it comes to mortgages, one size does not fit all.
“Every situation is different and I get to know my clients on a human level,” she says. “Getting a mortgage is one of the biggest financial decisions in someone’s life. It’s where you spend your life savings, your future, where you raise a family.”
Grace prides herself on quality of service, not quantity.
“I try to help my clients plan for the future,” she explains. “My goal is to be there for them for life, rather than just a couple weeks or months.”
Grace Reynolds with Jason Kay, her mortgage broker partner and mentor at Northwood Mortgage Ltd. (Supplied photo)
Grace keeps up with the latest industry information, stressing that the industry is always changing.
“Mortgages are no longer simple. After the American economy crashed ten years ago, regulations have gotten tighter. Even from five years ago to now, it’s all very different.
“You want someone who is on your side and who will take the time to understand your financial state. My clients can trust that I stay up to date on the latest information.”
Grace’s clients include those with good credit, bad credit, and all the special cases in between.
As she says, in a changing industry it’s always a good idea to have a mortgage broker at your side.
In the 13 years she has worked as the Ontario Dog Trainer, Karen Laws has made life better for a long list of dogs and their owners. (Supplied photo)
Karen Laws has never met a dog she couldn’t help and, after 13 years of working as the Ontario Dog Trainer, she’s made life better for a long list of dogs and their people packs by teaching owners how to be relevant to their dogs.
With a calm, steady and warm voice, Karen explains the difference with her training technique.
“I teach how to connect and communicate with the dog — on their level,” she says.
And this is different than training that requires the dogs to connect at the human level; where the focus is on command and control. Karen turns all of this around with an approach that uses awareness of physical energy and an understanding of what the dog is trying to communicate.
“Dogs move each other by bumping, by moving through space with an awareness of other dogs,” Karen explains. “We teach how to own the space in a benevolent, dog-like way and we teach what the dog needs to learn to remain in a harmonious relationship with its owners, and in its home.”
All of this is great news for the long list of people who have reached out to Karen over the years, looking for help with what they consider to be “bad dogs.” But, as Karen emphasizes, once you start to repair the broken relationship between people and their dogs, life changes for the entire pack.
At her large rural property in Bethany, Karen offers a unique “boarding school” for dogs, where she completes initial training of dogs, with longer stays for dogs with serious behavioral issues. (Supplied photo)
Boarding school is where the change happens for many of the dogs that Karen works with. And while she loves working with new puppies, dogs of all ages are welcome to start the program that serves as the foundation of a lifelong relationship with dogs and their owners.
Boarding school is a bootcamp environment where the learning is continuous and by the end of a dog’s stay with Karen, they will be able to come when called, sit, stay, behave with strangers, with visitors and they will be a delight to walk.
Karen also offers specialized, longer-term boarding for dogs who have serious behavioral issues and, in every case, she’s willing to customize the experience.
Once the dogs are ready to return home, the training continues with videos, guidebooks, and the ability to always re-connect with Karen for a refresher.
Karen worked in the pet industry and trained retrievers for field trial competition for many years before transitioning into companion dog training. Her commitment to continuous learning with dogs and from others helped her use skills to offer behavioral support.
Karen admits to being naturally better with dogs than with people and she knows the efforts she puts in are making a big difference in the lives of frustrated pet owners.
“All dogs are trainable,” she says firmly. “I prepare you and your dogs for a lifestyle that will bring you together. I help to build a bond and then we simultaneously focus on providing consistent leadership while creating desired behaviour. Training time is all the time and you’re either training your dog or your dog is training you.”
Often, at the end of boarding, when the owners come to collect their dogs, there are tears. Especially from the owners who have told Karen she is their last hope.
“People just cry,” she says softly. “They can’t believe the change.”
This change is only the beginning for dogs and their families.
Karen admits to being naturally better with dogs than with people and she knows the efforts she puts in are making a big difference in the lives of frustrated pet owners. (Supplied photo)
Karen’s clients often board their dogs with her for a refresher and, because training time is all the time, she now offers a weekly drop-in program called “Dogs on Walkabout,” where she leads people and their pets through different locations like parks and stores so that everyone learns how to be calm and work as a pack. These sessions show owners how to turn parks into training grounds where active play can help to re-pattern a dog’s brain in a really positive way.
With thousands of hours of training experience, Karen says that owners should never expect a quick fix when dealing with difficult behaviours. It’s a long-term investment in a relationship that will deliver beautiful results.
“You can get good results on your own,” Karen says. “But you’ll get great results with a skilled trainer.”
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