A Riliey never gives up with Brendan Riliey
Fri Jan 30 2026
On this episode, I’m joined by Brendan Riley, owner and operator of Marmora Retreat in Marmora, Ontario. Originally from South Africa, Brendan has called Canada home for nearly two decades, spending much of his career in real estate and property development in the Toronto area. During a family vacation, Brendan stumbled upon a piece of land that instantly spoke to him. That moment sparked his journey into glamping—and ultimately the creation of Marmora Retreat. Today, the retreat features thoughtfully designed geodesic dome accommodations for guests seeking a unique, immersive escape into nature. Brendan is a Firecircle alumnus who used the Firecircle 5x5 Method to clarify his vision, strengthen his business plan, and successfully access funding to support the expansion of his retreat. In this conversation, he shares his experience with the Firecircle program and how having a clear, well-developed plan helped him turn an idea into a growing, sustainable business. You can experience the results of Brendan’s vision firsthand by booking a stay in one of Marmora Retreat’s Sky View or Boho Luxe glamping domes. Learn more at www.marmoraretreat.ca and follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/marmora.retreat/ If you have an idea you’re ready to bring to life, or you’re looking to expand or reimagine an existing business, Firecircle can help. Our comprehensive, easy-to-use digital business planning programs, one-to-one expert mentorship, and supportive community of fellow entrepreneurs are here to support you every step of the way. Learn more at www.thefirecircle.ca.
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On this episode, I’m joined by Brendan Riley, owner and operator of Marmora Retreat in Marmora, Ontario. Originally from South Africa, Brendan has called Canada home for nearly two decades, spending much of his career in real estate and property development in the Toronto area. During a family vacation, Brendan stumbled upon a piece of land that instantly spoke to him. That moment sparked his journey into glamping—and ultimately the creation of Marmora Retreat. Today, the retreat features thoughtfully designed geodesic dome accommodations for guests seeking a unique, immersive escape into nature. Brendan is a Firecircle alumnus who used the Firecircle 5x5 Method to clarify his vision, strengthen his business plan, and successfully access funding to support the expansion of his retreat. In this conversation, he shares his experience with the Firecircle program and how having a clear, well-developed plan helped him turn an idea into a growing, sustainable business. You can experience the results of Brendan’s vision firsthand by booking a stay in one of Marmora Retreat’s Sky View or Boho Luxe glamping domes. Learn more at www.marmoraretreat.ca and follow on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/marmora.retreat/ If you have an idea you’re ready to bring to life, or you’re looking to expand or reimagine an existing business, Firecircle can help. Our comprehensive, easy-to-use digital business planning programs, one-to-one expert mentorship, and supportive community of fellow entrepreneurs are here to support you every step of the way. Learn more at www.thefirecircle.ca.