In this episode, Tyler is joined by the Vice President of Schneider Electric, Hugo Lafontaine, for a candid conversation about why Canada’s innovation narrative often falls short in practice, and what it actually takes to lead digital transformation in legacy industries. Drawing on decades of experience in automation, energy management, and systems integration, Hugo explains how real change isn’t just about tech, it’s about people, adoption, and the long game. From Calgary’s growing clean energy ecosystem to the culture of conservatism that holds many sectors back, Hugo shares insights that are both pragmatic and optimistic. Whether you're a business leader, policy maker, or builder of the future, this conversation offers a grounded take on how we accelerate meaningful innovation.

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In this episode, Tyler is joined by Katrina German, Founder and CEO of Ethical Digital, to unpack the urgent need for more human-centered design and ethical standards in the digital world. Katrina shares why building responsible technology isn't just a nice-to-have—it’s a necessity for future generations. From algorithmic bias and AI safety to the hidden power of inclusive teams, Katrina explains how Ethical Digital works with organizations to embed values like transparency, consent, and representation into every stage of tech development. It’s a thought-provoking conversation that highlights how small shifts in approach can lead to massive ripple effects in how we live, work, and connect online.

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In this episode, Tyler is joined by the Co-Founder and CEO of Leeg Group, Bri Falls, for a candid and compelling conversation about the evolution of work. With deep experience in HR strategy and systems thinking, Bri challenges the way companies approach people operations from outdated tech stacks to reactive cultures. She explains how Leeg Group helps organizations rewire for the modern workforce by focusing on root cause analysis, trust-building, and culture-first strategy. Along the way, Bri shares how her own journey, through burnout, innovation, and curiosity, shaped a purpose-led company built for today’s complexity. Whether you're a founder, people leader, or just rethinking how you want to work, this episode offers sharp insight into what the future of work could look like, and how to lead with heart and systems thinking.

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In this episode, Tyler sits down with the Founder of Practical AI, Derek Crager, to explore how artificial intelligence can become a true ally in human learning and development. Derek shares how his latest product, Pocket Mentor, uses conversational AI to scale mentorship, support neurodiverse thinkers, and simplify complex workplace training. With career roots at Amazon and a passion for human-centric design, Derek breaks down how voice tech, storytelling, and adaptive interfaces are reshaping how we grow. This episode cuts through the hype to explore the real-world ways AI can foster connection, confidence, and capability, especially in the hands of thoughtful builders. Whether you're an L&D leader, startup founder, or simply curious about the future of education, this conversation will challenge how you think about tools, talent, and transformation.

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In this episode, Tyler sits down with author and leadership development expert Paul Moore to unpack the complexities of modern management. Drawing on his new book, Hitchhiking Through Management: Moore’s 10 Laws for Successful Leadership, Paul challenges conventional ideas about leadership, offering a brutally honest, deeply practical look at what it really takes to manage humans in today’s fast-changing work world. With decades of experience and a clear-eyed view of where most managers go wrong, Paul shares hard-earned wisdom about the tension between authority and authenticity, how to build real psychological safety, and why so many people regret taking on leadership roles. If you lead a team—or aspire to—this episode will challenge, reframe, and empower how you think about your work.

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In this episode, Tyler sits down with Andrew Bullied, Co-Founder and Sales Director of Annex Ale Project, for a deep dive into the beverage revolution happening in Calgary and beyond. While Annex made its name as a craft brewery, it’s their line of non-alcoholic sodas that’s becoming the brand’s breakout star. Andrew shares how Annex took the same experimental mindset behind their beers and applied it to sodas by creating unexpected flavours like Saskatoon Lemonade and Root Beer with personality. This episode is about building a brand that isn’t afraid to play, pivot, and push boundaries. From soda taps in the brewery to collaborations with local growers, Andrew explores what it takes to carve out space in a crowded market, stay agile without losing your soul, and why Annex’s biggest wins come from staying weird—and staying connected.

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In this episode, Tyler is joined by the CEO of CUPS Calgary AB, Elaine Wilson, for a conversation rooted in compassion, collaboration, and community impact. At the centre of it all is Red Express—a long-standing holiday initiative providing gifts and essentials to families navigating poverty, trauma, and housing instability. What began as a grassroots project has grown into a deep partnership with CUPS, whose integrated, trauma-informed programs support over 11,000 Calgarians every year. Together, Tyler and Elaine explore what it means to truly “show up” for community, at Christmas and all year round, and why the work of nonprofits like CUPS is essential to Calgary’s social fabric.

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In this episode, hear from Brian McLennan, co-founder and CEO of Link, a Calgary-based fintech reimagining how workplace savings are built, accessed, and delivered. Unlike most financial services startups, Link doesn’t chase consumer attention—it powers the infrastructure behind banks, credit unions, and employers, enabling smarter, more inclusive savings plans for Canadians across all sectors. Brian shares the story behind Link’s nearly decade-long journey, from its early ambitions to offer a full suite of financial tools to its strategic focus on one big problem: the inaccessibility of workplace retirement savings for millions of Canadians. The conversation covers the hidden economics of employer-matched contributions, the role of fintech in enabling policy goals, and why platforms—not products—may hold the key to equitable financial futures. This episode is essential listening for anyone building in fintech, leading teams, or thinking deeply about long-term impact.

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In this special episode, Tyler welcomes Josh Rainbow, founder of Future Summit, for an energizing conversation about the people, power, and purpose behind one of Canada’s most ambitious innovation events. With nearly a decade of event-building experience and a relentless drive to connect old-guard industry leaders with new-wave innovators, Josh shares the origin story and guiding ethos behind Future Summit 2025. This isn't your average tech conference—it's a curated, cross-sector experience designed to foster collaboration, inspire action, and spark the future from right here in Calgary. Whether you're an investor, policymaker, founder, or just someone curious about where Canada is headed, this conversation offers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build a world-class event—plus insights into the bigger story Calgary is telling about itself.

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In this episode, Tyler Chisholm sits down with Jeff Couillard and Pablo Romero, co-CEOs of The Ally Co, to explore what they call “leaderful teams”—environments where power is shared, trust is intentional, and leadership is a practice, not a title. Jeff and Pablo work with clients across sectors—from startups to global energy firms—to help organizations shift from hierarchical control to relational accountability. Their conversation with Tyler goes beyond theory, digging into the messy, human realities of organizational change. From the courage it takes to confront power dynamics, to the deep work of building psychological safety, they offer a roadmap for leaders ready to evolve. Whether you're a founder, manager, or change agent inside a complex system, this episode will help you rethink what leadership can be.

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In this episode, Tyler Chisholm sits down with Rob Ohlson, President of Maillot Homes, for a behind-the-scenes look at the art and business of building custom homes in Calgary. With 70 years of legacy and two decades of leadership under his belt, Rob brings a refreshing blend of humility, curiosity, and hard-earned perspective to the conversation. Together, they explore how design, technology, and market forces intersect in the city’s evolving housing landscape. From geothermal systems and solar panels to client psychology and political red tape, Rob offers stories and strategies that illuminate the full complexity of custom homebuilding. It’s a candid conversation about risk, stewardship, and why thoughtful simplicity often outperforms flash. Whether you're a homeowner, entrepreneur, or simply curious about the future of Calgary’s communities, this episode delivers insight from the ground up.

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In this episode, Tyler Chisholm welcomes Barry Po, CEO of Brilliant and a veteran of mCloud and HSBC, for a candid conversation on the true nature of digital transformation. With decades of experience at the intersection of technology and leadership, Barry brings a refreshingly human lens to a topic often dominated by hype. Together, they unpack why AI is less about flashy tools and more about strategic courage—why complexity kills innovation, and why organizations need to rethink how they implement change. For leaders in Western Canada and beyond, this is a powerful guide to building organizations where AI isn't just added on—it's woven in. Whether you're stuck in pilot purgatory or on the edge of a major transformation, Barry offers clear-eyed insights into how to move forward with purpose, pragmatism, and just enough boldness to make it work.

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In this episode, Tyler Chisholm sits down with Anthony D. Almeida, CEO and Chairman of The Unbankers, to explore why access to financing is becoming a strategic pain point for Canadian and American small and mid-sized companies. With over 25 years in corporate finance and deep operational know-how, Anthony shares how The Unbankers are stepping in to serve businesses too often ignored by major lenders. While they offer loans upwards of $100M, many traditional banks will prioritize larger deals which underscores UnBankers' role in filling such a crucial gap—especially for SMBs seeking sub-$10M loans. From acquisition financing to supporting companies in high-growth or turnaround situations, Anthony unpacks what it really means to be “finance-ready” and why planning for capital nine months in advance is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. If you’re scaling up, buying a competitor, or simply trying to keep pace with your success, this episode offers a fresh look at how relationship-based lending can help you bridge the funding gap and build the business you envision.

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Crystal Phillips returns to Collisions YYC in a new role that perfectly aligns with her lifelong mission: harnessing resources to create impact. As the newly appointed Senior Director at the Opportunity Calgary Investment Fund (OCIF), Crystal offers an insider’s look at how Calgary is strategically investing in its own future—across sectors like life sciences, agtech, aerospace, creative industries, and more. Crystal unpacks her journey from elite athlete to venture capitalist to economic development leader, exploring how OCIF is helping turn Calgary into one of the most dynamic innovation ecosystems in North America. If you're curious about how funding decisions are made, what it means to create a sector “hub,” or how emotional intelligence and imposter syndrome play out in high-impact leadership, this is a must-listen conversation.

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In this episode, mayoral candidate Jeff Davison returns for a candid conversation on the complex, often frustrating state of Calgary’s municipal landscape. Since his last appearance in August, the city has continued to face seismic shifts—from inflation and economic uncertainty to growing tensions around public safety, affordability, and civic trust. Jeff offers a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges council faces today and shares his renewed vision for a Calgary that is safer, more collaborative, and economically vibrant. This episode is a deep dive into the real mechanics of city governance: how policy is made, how bureaucracy can either serve or stall progress, and what it will take to rebuild public confidence. Whether you're a voter, business leader, or civic-minded citizen, Jeff’s reflections offer clarity on what’s broken—and how he believes it can be fixed.

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In a thought-provoking shift from his usual entrepreneur interviews, Tyler Chisholm reconnects with acclaimed Calgary author and journalist Marcello Di Cintio to explore a hidden, yet essential pillar of the Canadian economy: migrant labour. As editor of Tyler’s own book on curiosity, Marcello returns to Collisions YYC not just as a friend of the show, but as a storyteller amplifying overlooked voices. His latest work, Precarious: The Lives of Migrant Workers, cuts through the policy fog surrounding Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program to reveal the human stories at its core. For business owners struggling to find and retain labour, this episode is a sobering reminder that the very people filling those gaps are often treated as disposable. It’s a conversation about economics, ethics, and the courage of those who hold up entire industries from the shadows.

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In this episode, Christa Hill, CEO of Tacit Edge and co-founder of AI North, joins Tyler to unpack how AI can (and should) empower teams without replacing them. Drawing from her work across startups, post-secondaries, and enterprise training, Christa explores the urgent need for Canada to step up its AI literacy while challenging outdated assumptions about leadership, risk, and who gets to innovate. From "greenhouse thinking" to leveraging LLMs to build capacity, her approach is rooted in empathy, clarity, and practical impact. This episode offers a refreshing take on how to lead with purpose in a rapidly changing world.

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In this episode of Collisions YYC, Tyler Chisholm sits down with James McInnes, founder of Prompty, a Calgary startup tackling the broken state of networking. A single forgotten business card sparked the idea for Prompty—a platform designed to help people remember not just names, but the stories, places, and moments behind their connections.

James explores why traditional tools like LinkedIn fall short, and how friction-free tech can make networking more inclusive for everyone, from introverts to seasoned veterans. He also shares insights on memory science, the psychology of trust, and why authentic connection is more valuable than ever in today’s transactional business landscape. Listeners will walk away rethinking their approach to networking, with practical ideas for building stronger, more human relationships in every setting.

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