E500 – Deborah Yedlin, Brains, Business, and Belonging: Unpacking the Calgary Advantage
“It shouldn’t be easier to sell into the United States than it is within the country. But it is right now in many instances.”
Drawing on her deep roots in Calgary’s business and academic communities, Deborah shares how past downturns shaped the city’s resiliency and why this latest chapter of growth feels different. She recounts Calgary’s early efforts to diversify beyond energy, the emergence of key institutions like Creative Destruction Lab and Platform Calgary, and the entrepreneurial spirit that continues to power innovation here. But the discussion goes far beyond economics. Deborah unpacks the growing urgency around housing, transit, education, and downtown revitalization, painting a picture of a city that must balance ambition with inclusion. She challenges listeners to embrace long-term thinking—investing in generational projects, local companies, and collaborative efforts across sectors and provinces. If you care about Calgary’s future, this episode is a must-listen.