Meet Edwina McKennon | AI Educator & Advisor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Edwina McKennon and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Edwina, what habits do you feel helped you succeed?
Reflecting on the journey that has led me to where I am today, I realize it’s been shaped by a collection of habits, each playing a pivotal role in my success. Perhaps the most distinctive among these is adopting the mindset of a fox. In the business landscape, being a fox has meant being adaptable, cunning, and strategic—qualities that have allowed me to navigate challenges and seize opportunities with agility and insight.

Reading has been another cornerstone habit. Books have not only been a source of endless knowledge and inspiration but also a gateway to understanding diverse perspectives and complex concepts. This habit has fueled my curiosity and kept me on a continuous path of learning and growth.

But my journey hasn’t been shaped by these habits alone. Continuous learning has been a constant theme, extending beyond books to include masterminds, courses, and seminars. This dedication to education has kept me at the cutting edge of my field, always prepared to embrace new trends and technologies.

Networking with purpose has also played a crucial role. By forging meaningful connections within and beyond my industry, I’ve opened doors to countless opportunities. These relationships have not only expanded my professional network but have also enriched my life with support and inspiration from a community of like-minded individuals.

Prioritizing self-care has been another key habit. Recognizing the intrinsic link between my well-being and my performance, I’ve made it a point to take care of my physical and mental health. Whether through exercise, meditation, or simply taking time to unwind, maintaining my well-being has been essential for sustaining my energy and focus.

Setting clear, actionable goals has helped me navigate my path with intention. This practice has kept me focused, allowing me to measure progress and celebrate milestones along the way. It’s a habit that has fueled my motivation and helped me maintain a clear vision of where I’m headed.

Lastly, embracing failure as a learning tool has been transformative. Viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth has allowed me to learn from my mistakes and emerge stronger. This positive attitude towards failure has been a powerful catalyst for personal and professional development.

What should our readers know about your business?
My journey from a top insurance broker to an AI educator and advisor encapsulates a profound evolution, driven by a passion for growth and innovation. Starting in the insurance sector, I honed my skills in sales, client relations, and built a significant book of business. This experience laid a solid foundation for my venture into the world of artificial intelligence, leading to the relaunch of my consulting firm. Now, we focus on sales, scalability, AI, and automation, assisting organizations of all sizes in navigating the complexities of digital transformation.

Transitioning from insurance to AI and technology consulting wasn’t straightforward. It demanded adaptability and a willingness to immerse myself in continuous learning and innovation. My unique journey is what distinguishes me in the field. I pride myself on making AI accessible to a diverse range of sectors, a commitment that has garnered me recognition, including being named a Woman of Distinction (finalist 202 and 2023).

The path here has been rich with lessons on resilience, the critical nature of lifelong learning, and the strength found in community. These lessons have been pivotal in overcoming the challenges of shifting industries and establishing a thriving consulting practice.

What I wish for the world to understand about my brand is its foundation on principles of innovation, inclusivity, and driving change. It’s a narrative of transformation, leveraging past successes to redefine the future, where technology like AI and automation plays a key role in enhancing business strategies and operations. My story is not just about personal achievement but about inspiring and leading a movement towards a more efficient, empowered, and technologically advanced future.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1: Elegant Beginnings – Start with brunch at Café Boulud in the Four Seasons Hotel, offering a refined atmosphere and a menu crafted by Chef Daniel Boulud.
– Explore the Royal Ontario Museum’s exclusive exhibits, followed by afternoon tea at the Shangri-La Hotel, blending a classic tradition with a touch of Asian flair.
– Dinner at TOCA, located in the Ritz-Carlton, where Italian cuisine meets the finest Canadian ingredients, accompanied by a selection from their renowned cheese cave.

Day 2: Art and Culinary Artistry
– Breakfast at the Ritz-Carlton’s DEQ Terrace & Lounge, enjoying the serene garden setting.
– A visit to the Art Gallery of Ontario, followed by lunch at AGO Bistro, where the menu is as artistic as the surroundings.
– Dinner at Canoe, perched atop the TD Bank Tower, offering breathtaking views and a menu that celebrates the diversity of Canada.

Day 3: Niagara Luxury
– A chauffeured drive to Niagara-on-the-Lake for private wine tastings at exclusive vineyards.
– Lunch at a vineyard restaurant, enjoying locally sourced ingredients and exquisite wine pairings.
– Return to Toronto for dinner at Alo, an intimate setting for a tasting menu that’s a gastronomic journey through contemporary French cuisine.

Day 4: Fashion and Fare
– Shopping at upscale boutiques in Yorkville, Toronto’s most prestigious shopping district.
– Lunch at Sassafraz, set in a Victorian townhouse in the heart of Yorkville, offering Canadian cuisine with a French twist.
– An evening at the opera or ballet at the Four Seasons Centre, followed by late-night drinks at the Bar at the Ritz-Carlton, where the cocktails are as sophisticated as the setting.

Day 5: Island Elegance
– A private helicopter tour of Toronto, including a fly-over of the Toronto Islands.
– Lunch at the exclusive Toronto Island Yacht Club, enjoying gourmet cuisine with a view of the city skyline.
– Dinner at Scaramouche, an iconic Toronto restaurant known for its panoramic city views and flawless French cuisine.

Day 6: Culinary Exploration
– Brunch at the chef’s table in Buca Yorkville, offering an intimate experience with a bespoke menu.
– A guided tour of the St. Lawrence Market, sampling gourmet treats and artisanal products.
– Dinner at Mrs. LikkleMore, where the upscale Caribbean cuisine is matched by the vibrant and chic atmosphere, offering a unique twist to the upscale dining experience.

Day 7: Iconic Toronto
– Breakfast in bed at the Ritz-Carlton, indulging in a luxurious start to the day.
– A leisurely day at the Spa My Blend by Clarins at the Ritz-Carlton, rejuvenating before the journey home.
– A farewell dinner at George Restaurant, where the tasting menus are personalized masterpieces, ensuring the week ends on a high note of culinary excellence.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely, diving into the essence of my journey, it’s clear that my path has been significantly shaped by the contributions and support of many. At the heart of my story is a constellation of influences that have guided, inspired, and propelled me forward.

Firstly, I must give a monumental shoutout to the book “Good to Great” by Jim Collins. This masterpiece didn’t just change my perspective on business; it revolutionized the way I approach life and leadership. Its principles have been a compass, guiding me towards striving for excellence in every endeavor.

My mother, with her unwavering resilience, love, and support, has been my rock. Her strength and grace under pressure have taught me the true meaning of perseverance. Her belief in me, even when the odds were stacked against us, has been the bedrock of my success.

Grant Cardone has also played a pivotal role in shaping my professional outlook. His teachings showed me that sales isn’t just a job—it’s a lifestyle. Embracing this mindset from a young age has been instrumental in my achievements and in how I approach business relationships and opportunities.

I cannot overlook the incredible impact of my sisters and our collective journey as part of the Millionaire Boss Ladies group. Together, we’ve created a powerhouse of motivation, accountability, and support, staying laser-focused on hitting our goals year after year. This sisterhood has been a cornerstone of my success, providing not just a network of support but a family of like-minded achievers.

Beyond these, I owe a debt of gratitude to the countless mentors and peers who’ve shared their wisdom and insights with me. Their collective guidance has been invaluable, helping me navigate the complexities of my industry.

Lastly, I’d like to acknowledge the communities and networks I’ve been a part of. These vibrant ecosystems of collaboration and support have not only fueled my growth but have also been a source of joy and inspiration.

Each of these influences, from the seminal book that shifted my mindset, to the personal heroes who’ve supported me, the sisterhood that has empowered me, and the communities that have embraced me, deserves recognition in my story. They’ve all contributed to the person I am today, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

Website: edwinamckennon.com

Instagram: @edwinamckennon

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwinamckennon/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@moveusforwardinc