In this exclusive interview with CanadianSME Small Business Magazine, Peter Maropakis, the founder of iToldYa!, discusses his innovative approach to reshaping online interactions. iToldYa! is a platform designed to foster respectful debates and help young people build confidence, critical thinking, and presentation skills. With a focus on creating a safe space for authentic conversations, Peter shares the inspiration behind his vision and the role of “social duelling” in promoting personal growth. He also highlights how small business owners and entrepreneurs can leverage the platform for networking, branding, and idea validation. As a leader committed to cultivating a positive and engaging online environment, Peter discusses the key elements that make iToldYa! a game-changer in the world of social media, and offers invaluable advice for aspiring tech entrepreneurs looking to disrupt traditional markets.
Peter Maropakis is the Canadian founder of iToldYa!, a platform built to help young people think critically, speak confidently, and engage with purpose. With over two decades of leadership and a passion for developing talent, Peter believes in the power of mentorship and is on a mission to make social media a place where respectful debate fuels personal growth.
iToldYa introduces a unique concept of “social duelling.” What inspired this innovative approach to social media, and how do you see it reshaping online interactions for small business owners and entrepreneurs?
My vision for iToldYa! cemented as I focussed my energy toward developing young professionals and new in career individuals -to help them be the best version of themselves at work. Seeing how existing social platforms foster the silence of opinions, both unpopular and popular. I realized the structure of social media was the significant driver of young people’s fear of having and sharing their own opinions. We need a safe place for young people to reshape social debate, practice their presentation skills and improve their ability to influence others in a respectful manner.
For small business owners It helps them test ideas, sharpen messaging, and get real-time feedback from a diverse audience. It also builds confidence on camera — a skill that’s more important than ever in the digital age.
This approach can reshape online interactions by creating space for courageous conversations, critical thinking, and authentic connection — without the toxicity that’s become too common online.
The platform emphasizes providing a safe environment for users to share opinions. In an era of online polarization, how does iToldYa maintain a balance between encouraging healthy debates and preventing harmful conflicts?
We’ve built the platform from the ground up with respectful disagreement at its core. Unlike traditional social media, where comments often devolve into toxic exchanges, our platform is structured to encourage focused, video-based responses to specific statements. This format promotes accountability and reduces anonymity-driven behavior.
FUN-ISHMENT is an intriguing aspect of your platform. How does this playful element enhance user engagement, and what lessons can other small businesses learn about integrating gamification into their products or services?
Our Fun-ishment feature is where entertainment meets accountability. On iToldYa, if you lose a debate — based on public voting — you may have to do a fun, lighthearted challenge on video. It could be something silly like singing in a funny voice or doing a harmless dare or ideally a charitable act. It adds stakes to the discussion, but in a way that’s positive and community-driven.
The Fun-ishment Increases User Engagement – People are more likely to participate when there’s an element of fun. It turns debating from something intimidating into something approachable and even humorous. It also promotes positive behavior – we keep the tone light, and encourage respectful competition. Reinforcing the fact that we can disagree, lose, and still laugh together.
The lesson for small business is this: gamification doesn’t need to be complex to be effective. It can add emotional investment and repeat interaction. Just make sure it aligns with your brand values. Our Fun-ishment aligns perfectly with our mission: creating a safe, engaging space for opinion-sharing and personal growth — without taking ourselves too seriously.
iToldYa aims to help users develop confidence and presentation skills. How do you envision small business owners and professionals leveraging your platform for personal branding and networking opportunities?
iToldYa is a stage for self-expression. Small business owners and professionals can use our platform to share their opinions, showcase their expertise, and build trust with an audience. It’s an opportunity to present your perspective on topics that matter in your industry — and do it with personality and confidence.
By posting thoughtful duels and engaging response videos, users can demonstrate clarity of thought, presence on camera, and the ability to communicate persuasively. Essential skills for personal branding. Your itoldya! profile is like a highlight reel for how you think and how you show up.
Networking happens naturally when others see your videos and connect over shared values or differing opinions. The dialogue is real, and the connections are meaningful — because people see the person behind the profession.
iToldYa’s mission is to be a place to sharpen your voice, build presence, and connect with others, while practicing the skills that make you a stronger leader, brand, or entrepreneur.
As we conclude, what advice would you offer to aspiring tech entrepreneurs and small business owners looking to disrupt traditional markets with innovative ideas like iToldYa?
Creating a disruptive company is exactly that… disruptive. Investors turn their nose up at your idea, adoption can take a long time, so patience and perseverance are key. If it was easy, it would have already been done. It’s your will and conviction that brings your project to life. Make sure you absolutely believe in the disruptor you plan to unleash onto humanity.
