Napkin Sketches

What turns a shopping mall, hotel lobby, or downtown plaza into a place people actually want to show up for? In this episode, Ashley sits down with Nick Iozzo — founder of Ancillary Agency and a 25-year veteran of Canadian commercial real estate — to unpack the creative, short-term side of the industry that most people never see. Nick spent 14 years at Rogers building out their retail real estate...

Ashley Gorrie and Tom Wright explore the dynamics of advisory relationships, the importance of balancing personal and professional life, and the role of sales in business. They delve into Tom's experiences with the UFC and how advocacy and leadership play crucial roles in building a brand. The discussion emphasizes the significance of relationships and community involvement in achieving success. t...

In this enlightening conversation, Ashley Gorrie and Jonathan Johnson (JJ) explore the evolution of marketing strategies in the digital age, focusing on the importance of data, the role of AI, and the dynamics of agency-brand relationships. JJ shares his career journey from graphic design to e-commerce, highlighting key insights on global marketing, brand consistency, and the necessity of adapting...

In this engaging conversation, Ashley Gorrie and Andrew Nichols explore Andrew's journey from his early days in sales to his pivotal roles at Crocs and BioSteel, and now at Warroad Hockey. They discuss the importance of strong partnerships, the challenges of scaling a business, and the unique role of a Chief Revenue Officer. Andrew shares valuable insights on brand growth, market dynamics, and...

On this episode of Napkin Sketches, Ash chats with Ralph Dunning about life as an entrepreneur, where passion and wellness intersect and how to find freedom in ourselves. Ralph is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in the fashion and sportswear industries. His career began in 1993 with the founding of Rip N Hammer , a brand focused on functional, high-quality clothing for the...

Join the Gorrie & TCHAI teams as they take us on an inspiring journey through the evolution of their multi-generational companies. Discover the secrets behind their triumphs, learn from their stumbles, and gain valuable insights from the critical lessons they've mastered along the way. Whether you're an entrepreneur or simply curious about building a lasting legacy, this episode is pac...