Heaps Estrin's Blog - Beyond The Blueprints Podcast

The Sandwich Generation

Features | The Sandwich Generation

Caught between caring simultaneously for aging parents and children or grandchildren, a growing group of Canadians is making up the so-called Sandwich Generation that’s straddling two generations in need. And the double-layered financial, physical and emotional pressures are spreading them too thin. 

Words by Alex Cyr

When Jane Allin retired in 2014 after a 30-year career in education—most recently as a high school principal in Toronto—she had grand plans for her golden years. She and her husband, Stephen, a retired entrepreneur who once helmed the largest garden furniture manufacturing company in North America, had mapped it all out: they would travel, get in shape and settle into a slower pace of life. And…

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Beyond the Blueprints | Episode 11 | Frank & Cameron Heaps

Episode 11: The Heaps Legacy – Beer, Business & the Family Bond

In this special family episode of Beyond the Blueprints, Cailey Heaps sits down with her dad, Frank Heaps, craft-beer pioneer behind Upper Canada Brewing, and her brother, Cameron Heaps, Steam Whistle co-founder and CEO of Voltari electric performance boats. They discuss risk and opportunity, growing up Heaps, and values like grit, kindness, and self-reliance. From Steam Whistle’s “do one thing really well” approach to Voltari’s high-performance electric boats, the conversation explores leadership, entrepreneurship, and building exceptional teams — with humour, heart, and unforgettable stories.

Stream this Episode or other interviews in our series. You can listen to "Beyond…

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Beyond the Blueprints | Episode 10 | Suzanne Cohon

Episode 10: Crossing Borders, Building Brands - Suzanne Cohon

In this episode of Beyond the Blueprints, Cailey Heaps chats with Suzanne Cohon, Principal at ASC Public Relations and a driving force behind Canada’s top brand campaigns. Suzanne shares her cross-border perspective, the realities of PR, and why understanding your audience and strong storytelling are essential—lessons that translate directly to real estate marketing and luxury branding. She also reflects on life as a founder, philanthropist, and mom, showing how clarity, intention, and narrative shape lasting value. A must-listen for anyone interested in business, branding, or the art of influence.

Stream this Episode or other interviews in our series. You can listen to "Beyond…

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Beyond the Blueprints | Episode 9 | Melody & Maggie Adhami

Episode 9: Sisters in Success - Melody & Maggie Adhami 

Innovation and leadership take centre stage in this episode of Beyond the Blueprints, as Cailey Heaps sits down with sisters Melody and Maggie Adhami. From Melody’s rise as the “Billion Dollar Woman” and “Queen of Apps” to Maggie’s vision behind ShopThing, the conversation explores what it takes to build, scale, and lead successful businesses. Together, they reflect on early influences, leadership philosophy, and the balance between ambition and personal life, offering insight that resonates far beyond the tech world.

Stream this Episode or other interviews in our series. You can listen to "Beyond The Blueprints" right here through our embedded player or choose from any of the…

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Beyond the Blueprints | Episode 8 | Tommy Smythe

Episode 8: A Portrait in Design, Good Manners, and Living Authentically - Tommy Smythe

In this episode of Beyond the Blueprints, Cailey Heaps, of Heaps Estrin Real Estate welcomes renowned Toronto interior designer and television personality Tommy Smythe for a heartfelt and illuminating conversation. 

For those who have long admired the wit, refinement, and unmistakable character behind Tommy Smythe's designs, this episode offers a rare opportunity to step behind the scenes. Together, Cailey and Tommy explore the experiences and influences that have shaped his distinctive approach to design and to life. Blending storytelling, expertise, and inspiration, this episode speaks to anyone who appreciates the intersection of design, craftsmanship, and…

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Beyond the Blueprints | Episode 7 | Zoe Pawlak

Ready to dive deep into a story of resilience and ambition?

Beyond the Blueprints brings you face-to-face with the experiences that shape some of today's most inspiring leaders and innovators. Through candid conversations, Cailey uncovers the pivotal moments, challenges, and triumphs that define the entrepreneurial journey.

In each episode, discover what fuels these individuals as they navigate the highs and lows of building something meaningful-one decision, one obstacle, and one breakthrough at a time. 

Because behind every success story lies the blueprint of the human experience that inspired it.

Episode 5: Art, Ambition, Authenticity, Zoe Pawlak

In this episode, Cailey speaks with Zoe Pawlak, celebrated artist and entrepreneur,…

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Beyond the Blueprints | Episode 6 | Mark Cohon

Ready to dive deep into a story of resilience and ambition?

Beyond the Blueprints brings you face-to-face with the experiences that shape some of today's most inspiring leaders and innovators. Through candid conversations, Cailey uncovers the pivotal moments, challenges, and triumphs that define the entrepreneurial journey.

In each episode, discover what fuels these individuals as they navigate the highs and lows of building something meaningful-one decision, one obstacle, and one breakthrough at a time. 

Because behind every success story lies the blueprint of the human experience that inspired it.

Episode 6: Visionary Leadership, Mark Cohon

In this episode, Cailey sits down with Mark Cohon, former CFL Commissioner and celebrated…

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Beyond the Blueprints | Episode 5 | Wes Hall

Ready to dive deep into a story of resilience and ambition?

Beyond the Blueprints brings you face-to-face with the experiences that shape some of today's most inspiring leaders and innovators. Through candid conversations, Cailey uncovers the pivotal moments, challenges, and triumphs that define the entrepreneurial journey.

In each episode, discover what fuels these individuals as they navigate the highs and lows of building something meaningful-one decision, one obstacle, and one breakthrough at a time. 

Because behind every success story lies the blueprint of the human experience that inspired it.

Episode 5: The King of Bay Street, Wes Hall

In this episode, Cailey speaks with Wes Hall, the celebrated "King of Bay Street" and Dragon's…

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Beyond the Blueprints | Episode 4 | Tania Bortolotto

Ready to dive deep into a story of resilience and ambition?

Beyond the Blueprints brings you face-to-face with the experiences that shape some of today's most inspiring leaders and innovators. Through candid conversations, Cailey uncovers the pivotal moments, challenges, and triumphs that define the entrepreneurial journey.

In each episode, discover what fuels these individuals as they navigate the highs and lows of building something meaningful-one decision, one obstacle, and one breakthrough at a time. 

Because behind every success story lies the blueprint of the human experience that inspired it.

Episode 4: Designing with Purpose, Tania Bortolotto

In this episode, Cailey sits down with Tania Bortolotto, founder of Bortolotto…

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Beyond the Blueprints | Episode 3 | Kristine Hubbard

Ready to dive deep into a story of resilience and ambition?

Beyond the Blueprints brings you face-to-face with the experiences that shape some of today's most inspiring leaders and innovators. Through candid conversations, Cailey uncovers the pivotal moments, challenges, and triumphs that define the entrepreneurial journey.

In each episode, discover what fuels these individuals as they navigate the highs and lows of building something meaningful-one decision, one obstacle, and one breakthrough at a time. 

Because behind every success story lies the blueprint of the human experience that inspired it.

Episode 3: Driving Success, Kristine Hubbard

In this episode, Cailey connects with Kristine Hubbard, powerhouse leader and the voice behind…

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