In an insightful conversation with Ashraf Amin, the forward-thinking leader of Toronto Talks, we delve into his aspirational goals for 2025. As digital landscapes shift and global trends shape the market, Amin articulates his strategic vision for navigating potential challenges and embracing innovations. From leveraging cutting-edge technologies to redefining industry benchmarks, Amin outlines the roadmap Toronto Talks is charting to maintain its competitive edge. His approach not only reflects a commitment to growth but also demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the dynamic interplay between local insights and global trends. Join us as we explore the milestones Amin plans to achieve by the year’s end and how these ambitions will propel Toronto Talks into the future.
Interviewee Name: Ashraf Amin
Company: Toronto Talks
The Interview
What inspired you to start your journey in this field, and how did it all begin?
Ashraf Amin : I’ve always had a foot in two worlds, business and the arts. For years, I ran a supply business here in Toronto. Before that, I was a recording artist. That mix gave me a deep respect for storytelling and what it means to connect with people in a real way.
In 2024, I started messing around with AI tools, partly out of curiosity, partly because the constant stream of news and trends felt overwhelming. I found myself having these surprisingly deep conversations with the tech. Then with friends. And that’s when it hit me: this could be something more.
That’s how Toronto Talks was born. I wanted to create a space where we could explore money, business, and technology, but without the noise or hype. Just thoughtful, grounded conversations. And yes, I co-host it with an AI called Sophie the Sage. Not as a gimmick, but because it adds a new layer to the conversation. At its heart, though, it’s a very human project.
What are your primary business goals for 2025?
Ashraf Amin : It’s an ambitious year, but here’s what I’m working toward:
Growing our audience in Canada, the U.S., the U.K., and beyond.
Publishing more episodes that go deeper, not just reporting on trends, but asking better questions.
Launching a few new formats, guest interviews, themed series, possibly live tapings.
Building meaningful partnerships with creators and brands who share our values.
Ultimately, I want Toronto Talks to become a go-to space for thoughtful conversations that cut through the noise.
How do you plan to navigate potential challenges in the coming year?
Ashraf Amin : I think the biggest challenge is cutting through the noise. There are so many podcasts out there, and attention spans are getting shorter. So rather than trying to outdo others on volume or hype, I’m focused on quality. Making each episode worth someone’s time.
I’m also trying not to get caught up in chasing every trend. This project is independent, and I want to keep it that way, flexible, focused, and driven by curiosity, not algorithms.
And I’ll be listening closely to feedback, to collaborators, and to what’s happening in the world. I don’t need to be the loudest voice. Just a clear and honest one.
What innovations or changes are you implementing to stay ahead in your industry?
Ashraf Amin : The co-hosting format with Sophie, the AI, is definitely one of the more unusual elements. But it’s not about novelty, it’s about perspective. Having an AI in the mix helps surface insights I might not think of on my own.
But really, staying ahead isn’t about the tech. It’s about being intentional with the content. I want the show to feel smart, but also real, unscripted, well-produced, and grounded in actual curiosity.
We also try to keep things fun and interactive. For example, our launch included a Bitcoin giveaway and a QR code scavenger hunt. It wasn’t just a promo, it was a way to invite people into the conversation.
How are global trends influencing your strategic planning for 2025?
Ashraf Amin : There’s a lot going on. AI is accelerating, crypto keeps evolving, and trust in mainstream media is shaky. Those aren’t just headlines; they’re changing how people live, work, and think.
Toronto Talks is built to explore those shifts. The show sits right at the intersection of money, business, and technology. So the plan is to keep diving into those areas, bringing in different voices, and asking questions that don’t always get airtime elsewhere.
It’s also about keeping a wider lens. I want the show to reflect not just Toronto or North America, but global perspectives, especially from people who aren’t usually in the spotlight.
What milestones do you aim to achieve by the end of the year?
Ashraf Amin : Here’s what I’m aiming for by the end of 2025:
Hit over 100,000 total listens and views.
Launch a special guest series focused on bold ideas and conversations that matter.
Host two live events, maybe one in Toronto, one online.
Build at least three partnerships that feel like a real creative fit.
Produce a mini-series (likely around digital freedom or the future of work).
Submit the show for recognition, not because we need trophies, but to open new doors.
More than anything, I want to keep growing this in a way that feels honest. No shortcuts. No fluff. Just thoughtful media made for people who care about where the world’s going.
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Leaders Perception magazine would like to thank Ashraf Amin and ” Toronto Talks” for the time dedicated to completing this interview and sharing their valuable insights with our readers!
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