What is your channel called and what is it about?

My Instagram channel is @ethanmacm, and my YouTube channel is @ethanmacmillann. I use both platforms as a way to express myself creatively and, more importantly, to inspire others. My content blends different parts of my life, including fashion, lifestyle, fitness, travel, and personal growth, with the goal of encouraging people to become the best version of themselves. A big part of my message is centred around fear and growth. After winning Fear Factor: House of Fear, I realized that fear never fully disappears — you just learn how to move through it. I want my content to inspire people to identify what scares them and face those fears head-on. Fear is your purest definition of yourself, and if you can learn to hone it, you’ll be unstoppable. I also love creating funny physical comedy skits that brighten people’s days and give them something to genuinely look forward to, while showing how even small everyday moments and interactions can make a positive impact on someone’s life. Whether it’s through challenges, skits, experiences, or everyday life, I hope people take away the idea that confidence, peace, creativity, and fulfillment come from pushing beyond your comfort zone, being scared, and doing it anyway.

When did you start it? What motivated you at the beginning?

I started this social media journey in March 2025. What motivated me to start was, honestly, the fact that I felt lost in the best and worst way possible. I was 19 years old, and like a lot of people my age, I had no idea who I truly was. I realized I didn’t want my life to simply become finding the least painful 9-5 job just to pay bills. I wanted to understand myself on a deeper level. I starved to learn what I was capable of, what my purpose was, and who I truly was underneath fear, insecurity, ego, and comfort. A huge motivation behind starting social media was documenting that journey publicly and making a real impact. I wanted to push myself mentally, physically, spiritually, and emotionally to a point where I could no longer hide from myself. I’ve always believed that pressure reveals character. When you’re uncomfortable, exhausted, uncertain, or scared, that’s when you discover who you really are. Social media became a way for me to explore that process in real time and hopefully inspire others to do the same in their own lives. Fear was honestly one of the biggest reasons I started. I realized fear controls so much of people’s lives — fear of failure, the unknown, judgment, pain, rejection, love, or not being enough. For me, posting online was uncomfortable at first, but that was exactly why I knew I needed to do it. I wanted to train myself to become comfortable being uncomfortable. I wanted to teach myself how to fail, how to get back up, and how to keep moving forward even when fear was present. A lot of my mindset came from this idea that life constantly gives you signs and opportunities to grow, but most people ignore them because they’re afraid. I felt like life kept pushing me toward taking risks and following my own path instead of living based on other people’s expectations. Starting social media was me finally listening to that feeling. At its core, my journey has always been about authenticity. I believe people are most fulfilled when they live in alignment with who they truly are instead of hiding behind ego, insecurity, or social pressure. I wanted my content to reflect that idea. Not perfection, but growth. Not pretending fear disappears, but learning how to move through it anyway. More than anything, I started because I wanted to discover who I truly was, and I hoped that by being vulnerable enough to share that journey, other people might feel inspired to face their own fears, take risks, and become more authentic versions of themselves too.

Who were you inspired by? Any influences?

Major inspirations of mine have been historical figures such as Carl Jung and Alan Watts, and big influences of mine have been Nick Bare and Ian Fonz.

How would you describe your audience?

I’d describe my audience as a community of aspirational men and women who are motivated by growth, confidence, creativity, and self-improvement. The majority of my audience ranges from 18–34 years old, being 75% male.

What is your creative process? Do you have people who work with you?

My creative process usually starts with inspiration I find in everyday life, whether I’m out in public, online, at home, through conversations with others, or simply from my own thoughts. Whenever an idea comes to mind, I immediately write it down in my notes app so I can revisit it later. I’m constantly jotting down concepts and observations for future content. When it comes to bringing those ideas to life, I often run them by my friends and family to get their reactions and feedback. While my social media journey has mostly been an individual effort, my friends frequently help with filming and content creation. I also currently work with a publicist who helps create new opportunities for growth and exposure. Moving forward, I’m looking to expand the collaborative side of my work even more.

How do you monetize your content? Do you also have another job?

Currently, I monetize my content by creating opportunities through my platform and online presence. One major example was being cast on Fear Factor: House of Fear, where I won the $200,000 grand prize. In the short term, I also work with brands through promotional partnerships, where companies send products in exchange for advertising and exposure on my platforms. As I continue to grow, I’m hoping to secure larger sponsorships, paid partnerships, and potentially become a brand ambassador for bigger companies by expanding the publicity and value I can offer. Long term, I see my platform developing into a more meaningful career focused on motivational public speaking for companies, with the goal of creating a lasting and positive impact on people’s lives. I currently work a part-time job with the University of Toronto as an emergency trades dispatcher. Additionally, I am a student at the University of Toronto St. George campus, studying a double major in Political Science and Environmental Studies.

What is your favourite piece of content you have created?

Personally, my favourite piece of content I have created so far is my full marathon journey YouTube video. Although YouTube has not been my main focus, it is something I am very proud of.

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

The best part about what I do is the freedom of action, expression, and creativity it gives me. At the end of the day, the path I take and the decisions I make are entirely up to me, and I’m able to work on my own terms and timeline. While it can be demanding and requires a lot of discipline and consistency, the work is something I’m genuinely passionate about. It fulfills me creatively and personally, and over time it has become more than just a hobby — it’s become an obsession in the best way possible. Overall, I get to do what I love every day. The hardest part is the pressure and uncertainty that can come with this type of career, especially not always having the security of a guaranteed paycheck. I’ve experienced life both as an employee and as an entrepreneur, and while both come with stress, they are stressful for different reasons. For me personally, I chose the path that brings me the most fulfillment and sense of purpose.

What are your future plans for your channel?

For the future, I will start to post on a more serious and consistent basis, niching my content into the importance of facing your fears and reaching your full potential. This involves creating video essays and individual podcast videos of my life and experience, putting my personal brand into something that others can take value from. In addition, I’d like to build a stronger community that aspirational people like myself can join, which may include personal lifestyle and self-practice guides, one-on-one programs, and an overall collaborative, healthy community of support.

Where can we follow you?

Instagram | YouTube | TikTok

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another Canadian content creator that you love?

@slushynoobz

The post My Digital Life: Content Creator Ethan MacMillan appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

This silly and funny lady marches to the beat of her own drum, especially when it comes to outdoor time. Zola prefers a leisurely stroll, making her the perfect companion for anyone who enjoys a relaxed, low-pressure routine. She is incredibly food-motivated and will proudly show off her excellent sitting skills in exchange for a tasty treat. While she appreciates having her own space initially, she has a wonderfully sweet side and warms up beautifully on her own terms. Once she feels comfortable, she loves to express her affection by leaning gently against your leg or even curling up right in a friendly lap for some gentle companionship.

Zola is ready to bring an abundance of personality, laughter, and quiet affection to a loving home. If you are looking for a special companion to share peaceful moments and plenty of treats, please reach out to meet this wonderful available pet today.

Zola

Breed: Mixed Breed, Medium (up to 44 lbs fully grown), Mix

Age: 7 years

Sex: Female

Size: M

Colour: Tan

Spayed/Neutered: Yes

For Toronto Humane Society’s complete adoption process, please click here to learn more about how you can make this companion, a forever friend!

About this column:

Each week we feature animals available for adoption from local shelters in the Toronto area with the hopes that our readers will assist in finding good homes for them. If you, or someone you know, has the resources to take care of one of these animals, please do get in touch with the appropriate shelter via the links provided.

The post Zola the dog is looking for a new home in the Toronto area appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

What is your business called and what does it do?

My business is called Tasty Tours Toronto, and we are the original and number one-rated food tour company in Toronto. Our tours celebrate the city through one-of-a-kind food experiences, and we focus on creating non-touristy tours that showcase the true tastes of Toronto, the kind of tours that locals bring their friends on. Each tour includes a guided walk around a Toronto neighbourhood with curated stops at various eateries for tastings of edible delights and interesting tidbits of food and Toronto history.

We are best known for our five-star rated, number one selling Kensington Market “Taste The World” Food Tour, and we also offer a Must-Do Toronto Food Tour that showcases hidden food gems in downtown Toronto alongside some the city’s most popular sights, the Grand Chocolate Flight which includes a helicopter tour over the city with a guided tasting from a chocolate expert, and our brand new Soccer & Spice Food Tour running in June and July that visits spots inspired by popular soccer nations to celebrate the World Cup coming to Toronto.

What made you want to do this work?

I’ve always had a love for entrepreneurship, starting from when I was selling homemade cookies to my neighbours in elementary school to raise funds for local charities. When I first graduated from university, I had some time on my hands in between jobs, and I thought I should seize the moment to start experimenting with entrepreneurship. I love eating, travelling and meeting new people, so starting a food tour felt like a natural fit!

What problem did you want to solve with the business?

At the time I started, there were no food tours in Toronto like the kind that was popular in the US and Europe. After taking them while travelling, I realized it was something fun and unique that Toronto was missing.

Who are your clientele/demographics?

Tourists, of course! We also get a lot of locals who are looking for something fun to do on the weekend or to celebrate a special occasion. For our private group tours, we are popular among companies looking for interactive team bonding events, as well as event organizers for conferences, and so on that are looking for a way to combine sightseeing and eating.

How does your business make money? How does it work?

People pay for a tour ticket, which includes an experienced tour guide and all food samples on the tour.

Where in the city can we find your profession?

Kensington Market is our special place. We are the first, longest running food tour in Kensington Market, which remains our most popular tour today. We are also the only company to offer a food tour in the downtown Toronto core!

What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.

“What makes you different from other food tours?”

Here’s our answer! We’re the first and longest-running Toronto food tour that’s still run by the founder, so there’s a lot of heart behind what we do. Our tours focus on hidden gems, cool local stories, and authentic flavours—not just trendy Instagram spots. Guests often say they walk away with full bellies but also a deeper appreciation for the city, its history, and its communities. If you want a tour that’s personal, engaging, and full of local flavour (in every sense), you’ll feel right at home with us.

What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?

It’s so hard to choose! It’s a toss-up between meeting new and interesting people on every tour and saying hi to the familiar faces of our store partners on each tour (some of whom we’ve spent over a decade working with!) It’s a joy to help local businesses thrive and to connect with the local and global community.

There isn’t really a worst part. Sometimes you meet unreasonable guests, but most people are lovely, so that more than outweighs the few bad apples!

What is your favourite joke about your own profession?

The classic one is how ‘hard’ it is to eat for a living!

Where can we follow you?

All of our tours are available to view on our website. And you can follow us for updates, photos and more on Instagram and Facebook.

PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?

Le Dolci, a fun culinary classroom – it is one of the pioneers of unique food experiences in Toronto. Plus, the owner, Lisa, is a creative and business powerhouse with a truly genuine soul.

The post Homegrown Business: Audrey Ooi of Tasty Tours Toronto appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

Mexican Potato Skins

Prep Time: 10 min
Total Time: 1 hr 30 min
Serving: 4

Ingredients:

• 2 medium russet potatoes
• 500 mL (2 cups) Armstrong Tex Mex Shredded Cheese
• 350 mL (1 1/2 cups) lean ground turkey
• 125 g mole paste
• 1 chicken bouillon cube
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 medium avocado
• 350 mL (1 1/2 cups) sour cream

Directions:

1. Pierce potatoes a few times with a sharp knife or the tines of a fork, rub with olive oil and bake in oven at 205°C (400°F) for about an hour, or until the potatoes are cooked through and give a little when pressed.
2. With the frying pan set to medium-high heat, add vegetable oil. Once oil is hot, add ground turkey and chicken bouillon cube. Add mole paste and stir well until meat is evenly coated.
3. Deglaze pan with cold water and let simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat and reserve filling.
4. Remove the potatoes from the oven and let cool enough to handle. Cut in half vertically. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the insides, reserving the scooped potatoes for another use, leaving about 1/4 of an inch of potato on the skin. Increase the heat of the oven to 232°C (450°F). Brush or rub olive oil all over the potato skins, outside and in. Sprinkle with salt. Place on a baking rack in a roasting pan (don’t use a cookie sheet, it will warp, use a roasting pan or broiler pan that can take the heat).
5. Cook for 10 minutes on one side, then flip the skins over and cook for another 10 minutes. Remove from oven and let cool enough to handle.
6. Arrange the potato skins skin-side down on the roasting pan or rack. Fill each potato half with 1/3 cup of Armstrong Tex Mex shredded cheese, then add 1/4 cup ground turkey, then layer another 1/3 cup of Armstrong Tex Mex shredded cheese on top.
7. Return to the oven. Broil for an additional 2 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly. Remove from oven.
8. Add a quarter of sliced avocado on each potato half. Then top each potato half with 1/3 cup of sour cream and serve immediately.

The post Recipe for Mexican Potato Skins from Armstrong Cheese appeared first on Toronto Guardian.

First, about Rogers Stadium where the BTS concerts being held…

Rogers Stadium is located outside the city core in the area known as Downsview. The concerts are on August 22 and 23. The stadium holds well over 50,500 people. Please DO NOT be confused with the downtown arenas – one has a very similar name. The concert venue relatively easy to get to via public transit (TTC) or GO Transit. But make sure you leave yourselves ample time to get there!

The last couple of concerts I arrived two hours in advance and spent time in merch lines as well as grabbing stadium food for dinner. There are options! If you want to experience next level food and service, then check into the American Express Lounge! Arrive early and enjoy access to the lounge ahead of the concert in style. Food is made by, and with, Liberty Oak View Entertainment aka LOVE, a local catering company. What is highly sought after are their exclusive themed items (and collectibles) on the menu that have been customized to match the vibe of the performer(s) of the night. For BTS, we’ve already learned about a glitter pink drink that will be served in a limited edition reusable cup! Yours to keep and a great souvenir from the night’s experience!

As someone who’s already been to 4 concerts at this venue, there have been a few tweaks this year to getting in and out of the Stadium. But highly recommend packing your patience. Wear comfortable shoes because walking in and out of the venue is a TREK. Hey, you’ll get your steps in! So, stay positive.

Uber and Lyft are both available at specific drop off/pick up points at the stadium as well, BUT be prepared for surge pricing especially after the concerts. The best, and quickest (and I say that lightly), way out is using the lesser known Wilson Station Shuttle Bus – located at Gate 3 and is a decent 10 minute walk. During the recent Bruno Mars concert, I was able to walk right onto the shuttle bus without waiting and it wasn’t packed. It went directly to Wilson Subway Station with very little traffic. For reference, last year it took me 1.5 hours to get home. This year, it took 45 minutes using this route door-to-door. So, yes, a significant difference! BTW, public transit is FREE after the concert when you leave.

Security is tight at Rogers Stadium, and they are serious about bag sizes as well as what you bring INTO the venue. Plastic water bottles must be empty on your way in — but don’t worry, there are TONS of water filling stations within.

Please be sure to check the Rogers Stadium website or app for all your questions answered.

WHERE TO STAY…

If you’re visiting the city for concert dates, the best spots are along the TTC Subway Line. There are lots of options. A great spot is the Kimpton Saint George, which is one block away from St. George Subway Station. It’s a boutique-y hotel in a busy area and is located in a relatively safe area just on the fringe of Yorkville. The subway ride to Downsview Park Station (closest to Rogers Stadium entrance) is about 20 minutes.

The Fairmont Royal York is located right at Union Station, making this a very appealing stay. With a fast and affordable train service (UP Express) to Toronto Pearson Airport and right on the public transit line, you’ll be saving more without having to necessarily grab taxis or ride shares.

The Montecassino Hotel and Event Venue is within walking distance to Rogers Stadium. While I haven’t stayed there personally, I have been to this venue for events. It’s clean. It’s close. But if you’re looking to explore more of downtown, then this isn’t the most convenient.

Uber also just launched the ability to book hotel stays across Canada right within the app. Through a partnership with Expedia, you can now search, book, and secure rides AND hotel stays all in one place. It’s a great way to see what’s available quickly. BTW, Canada is the second country in the world to have this added feature!

WHERE TO EAT…

Many are secretly hoping to bump into the stars while they are in the city. We’re pretty certain they WILL be out, as Toronto is known for having an abundance of excellent Korean restaurants and shops. Their management team has been very good at sourcing out some of the best restaurants in the city for their previous acts that have rolled into town. Our top recommendations (just in case they are reading this lol) are here, and there are many more! If you do see them out, just be respectful and let them have their space and time.

TAKJA Korean BBQ: Located downtown at 962 College Street (open 7 days a week)  is one of the best upscale Korean-style BBQs in the city.  The restaurant was recently named in Canada’s Best 50 Next Discovery alongside the honours of being on Canada’s 100 Best (#46), Michelin Guide Recommended, and Air Canada’s Best New Restaurants! It’s modern and inviting. Chef Jeff Kang and Edward Bang offer up next level cuts of meat that are of higher quality and dry aged. The side dishes are made with love. You may get addicted to their white kimchi as I did. Save room for the Bingsu.

Huh Ga Ne located on Finch Avenue uptown, is a popular 24 hour restaurant serving traditional Korean dishes.

Daldongnae is also a popular Korean BBQ chain. There are also locations around Yonge & Sheppard as well as Yonge & Finch.

H Mart & Galleria grocery stores are ideal spots to pick up fresh Korean snacks and prepared meals too if you’re looking to save some money. You might even want to pick up cans of Dongwan limited edition BTS Jin TUNA as souvenirs! Here is also a Kibo mini mart located inside Union Station. Here you can pick up freshly prepared meals and snacks on the go.

Chocolat de Kat has created a limited edition BTS box of locally made artisanal bonbon chocolates – one of my personal favourites! Each box includes 9 handcrafted  ($35) and absolutely delicious bonbons, each one inspired by the seven BTS members, plus two additional bonbons celebrating the mikrokosmos (aka the ARMY and the OT7). Every box also includes 1 of 7 collectible member-inspired fan art cards. Pre-orders are open now here. Makes for a great gift too!

DaanGo Cake Lab has announced a limited edition 9-piece set of handmade BT21-inspired macarons made by Baker Siu, MasterChef Canada Season 7 winner! The flavours RJ (White Peach), Chimmy (Mango), Cooky (Strawberry), Tata (Earl Grey), Koya (Biscoff), Mang (Salted Egg Yolk), Shooky (Vietnamese Coffee), Van (Black Sesame) and BT21 (Chocolate). A fun treat for gatherings and concert celebrations. Limited Quantities available.

WHERE TO NAMJOON…

The term was inspired by RM (whose full name is Kim Nam-joon). The word was coined by the BTS ARMY to describe the way RM spends his free time: slowing down, wandering through art galleries and museums, reading books, exploring nature, biking, taking thoughtful walks, and generally appreciating the small details of everyday life. Here’s where I would definitely recommend visiting while you’re here in Toronto…

Art Gallery of Ontario: Explore the new Impressionists exhibition for an incredible overview of Impressionism, illustrating the origins of the movement and its considerable impact on two successive generations of avant-garde painters. Drawn from the Dallas Museum of Art, the exhibition includes works by Claude Monet, Berthe Morisot, Vincent van Gogh, Camille Pissarro, Paul Gauguin, Henri Matisse, Piet Mondrian, Edvard Munch, and others.

Gardiner Museum: Holds an extensive collection of historical and contemporary ceramic works from around the world.  Aside from the exhibitions, there is a special workshop titled “Clayming Beloved Community” caught my attention. It’s happening on August 23 at 6 pm. This evening session, led by a Zen Buddhist practitioner and registered art therapist, guides guests on an exploration of simple physical practices with clay. Designed to bring you into the moment while deepening and expanding awareness that we are all connected. It asks, “Are you centred?”, “Are you open to energy of joy?”, and “Are you open to moving as one?” At the end of the workshop, clay will return to its original form — a sense of letting go of what was created and beginning anew.

401 Richmond Street West: is a hub for creativity. Here you can wander the floors and hallways and discover local artists in galleries and studios. Museum of Toronto (free)  exhibitionsfocuses on the city and what matters to us, locals.

Toronto Islands: Take a ferry or water taxi over to Wards Island or Centre Island for a day of relaxation. There you’ll have a sweeping view of the city’s skyline. Pack a picnic. Rent a bike and take a leisurely ride along the paths. Bring a beach towel to enjoy the shoreline at Hanlan’s Point (fyi, this is also a clothing optional beach).

CN Tower: because it’s iconic and it’s also celebrating 50 years, it’s a perfect view to take in and see the world from a Birds Eye view. It can be quite a moving experience if you consider its history and how it has helped shape Toronto in many ways.

ANY LOCAL TORONTO BTS ARMY MEET UPS?  

Absolutely! Tons are being planned throughout the city as we lead up to the concert dates. There are several “unofficial” fun events happening planned by fans! Be sure to read all the details and locations carefully.

Some we’ve already spotted include… BTS Dance Party (19+) presented by Bangtang Ball at TD Music Hall. The Swim Into The Sun K-pop Boat Party at Toronto’s Harbourfront hosted by Noodle Goose Games will include dinner as it cruises along the harbour playing all things BTS. Hanbingo Cafe (397 Spadina Ave) is constantly hosting K-pop fan events so watch their IG for updates!

Also, be sure to check out Toronto Korean Festival happening at Mel Lastman Square uptown August 21, 22, and 23. The three day outdoor celebration of all-things Korean features music, culture, beauty, and more. Several K-pop groups will be performing here throughout the event dates. Easy to get to via public transit. Full details here.

NIKE BTS Customization activations have been happening globally. “Nike by You” at the Nike Toronto Store (Eaton Centre) opens up August 15.  Be prepared to line up!

CF Eaton Centre is hosting the 2026 COMEBACK FAN ZONE (August 14-16 )with DIY workshops, giveaways, themed photo opps, fan wall, and live K-Pop Beats. See full schedule and details on their site. Noted!  A Lucky Charm: Norigae Workshop shines a spotlight on Korean art traditions. It’s just one of the special workshops in collaboration with BTS ARMY Toronto. They will also have a Hanbok photo opp.  Reserve your spot fast! It will very be popular!

Permission to Golf special day with Canada Park Golf and BTS ARMY Toronto. August 9. This isn’t your traditional golf. Join in for a unique BTS-themed experience, meet fellow ARMY, and enjoy a day of fun on the course. The ticket includes: equipment loaner, a Korean boxed meal, a water bottle, bingsu (Korean shaved ice), photo opps, a freebies trading zone, prizes at holes, and of course you’ll get to meet Cooky and Shooky!

Keep an eye on BTS ARMY TORONTO on IG for more announcements of fun stuff coming up! And be sure to thank them! This team is run by volunteers, and we’re pretty certain they’ve not slept for the past couple of months.

WePix Light Activation: There’s also a special light activation happening during the concerts that is being organized by fans. You’ll want to go on Facebook and search for Maple Army Project to learn more. Everyone is invited to participate, which will no doubt be a moving moment for the musicians.

AND FINALLY, SOME QUIRKY BUT USEFUL NOTES…

If you’re planning to make FREEBIES to give away, note Rogers Stadium has an odd rule about NO STICKERS once you’re inside the gates. The reason is they want to keep control of any potential vandalism from happening. We guess they don’t understand the true culture of BTS Army being very respectful.

There’s been a lot of chatter about using a clear bag to carry your things. If you’d rather be safe than sorry, follow their guidelines and sure (it may be another excuse to purchase a cute bag?). It’s recommended but not necessary. I’ve carried in a small crossbody bag to the past four concerts at this venue. I carried my iPhone, a credit card, keys, and lipstick. I also packed a small foldable nylon shopping tote just in case I was successful at the merch booth.

If you’re a die-hard BTS Fan you know how important it is to the group to connect with their fans. That’s why they strongly request that during the concert you put your phones away.  They’d rather see your face than your phones! I know this is really hard to do lol.

Reminder that if you are lucky to see BTS members “in the wild” at restaurants, art galleries, please give them space and try not to take candid photos. In other words, please don’t be a sasaeng (obsessive stalker). The group has worked really hard to give fans everything at their concerts in every city, but they do need time to reset and recover in order to do so. True BTS Army are quite protective of their energy and respect the guys and their personal time.

If you need any more reason to get excited, go rewatch the BTS Come Back Documentary and the Arirang LIVE Concert on Netflix Canada for the 100th time.

*Lead in Photo: BTS on Netflix Canada

The post The Ultimate BTS Visitors’ Guide to Toronto appeared first on Toronto Guardian.