E448 – Current & Critical – Robert Price, The Future of Real Estate: AI and Customer-Centric Insights
In this episode, discover how Bōde Canada is revolutionizing real estate transactions with a tech-forward approach, leveraging AI and data insights. Robert reveals how Bode leverages AI and metadata to enhance data insights and streamline their platform, backed by a significant seed financing round comparable to a Series A. They delve into the cultural importance of customer centricity at Bode, emphasizing the monthly and quarterly reviews of customer feedback that guide their strategic decisions.
Read More
E447 – Current & Critical – Liz O'Connell, Navigating Emissions Management and Regulatory Challenges in Cleantech
In this episode, Liz O’Connell, CEO at Arolytics, gives a real-world look at business strategy and market navigation, particularly regulatory uncertainties and emissions management. Liz emphasizes the significance of being future-proof, prioritizing a "net 0" footprint, and the importance of measurement-based inventories to show reductions in emissions. The discussion also covers the differences in investment dynamics between the US and Alberta. Liz highlights Arolytics’ strategic alliances, including a lead investor from BDC and a Houston-based strategic investor with emission space connections.
Read More
E446 – Current & Critical – Bryan de Lottinville, Navigating Challenges and Triumphs: Building Benevity and Promoting Social Impact
In this episode, discover the journey from startup to success story at Benevity with Founder and Executive Chairperson Bryan de Lottinville. Bryan shares the story of how winning Nike as a client with a small, dedicated 11-person team allowed them to overcome scalability challenges rooted in tech debt. Bryan also candidly explores how, as the company grew, maintaining its strong, values-driven culture became more challenging.
Read More
E445 – Current & Critical – Demian Newman, Understanding Mandatory ESG Reporting and Its Impacts
In this episode, Demian Newman, CEO and Founder of GreenWorks ESG unravels the complexities and challenges companies face in ESG reporting and compliance. From the skepticism surrounding bold environmental claims to the need for standardized reporting and the role of technology in achieving accurate data, this episode covers it all. Demian shares his journey from oil and gas sales to leading an ESG-focused company, while highlighting the significance of transparency, accurate data, and the evolving landscape of mandatory ESG reporting.
Read More
E444 – Current & Critical – Will Zhang, AI and Data Transforming the Homebuilding Industry
In this episode, hear from returning guest Will Zhang, Co-Founder and CEO of OpenHouse.ai. He explains the critical importance of keeping a higher mission in focus as a leader, illustrated by some personal stories of navigating challenging trade-offs and the pivotal role of his team in re-aligning their decisions with their core mission. The conversation also extends to the complexities of team growth, hiring, and building customer success capabilities in the homebuilding industry.
Read More
E443 – Current & Critical – Alicia Quesnel, The Evolution of an Inclusive Western Canadian Energy Sector
In this episode, explore the expansive potential of the cleantech space and its critical role beyond energy with Managing Partner at Burnet, Duckworth & Palmer LLP, Alicia Quesnel. She unpacks key industry dynamics from energy security to policy-making challenges to the economic and environmental impacts of the oil sands. She brings unique insights into the global complexities of sourcing critical minerals in an approachable way.
Read More
E442 – Current & Critical – Marcie Jones, Navigating Risk Through Community in Western Canada's Unique Business Landscape
In this episode, hear from seasoned fractional growth leader, Marcie Jones, as she unpacks her wealth of experience across multiple domains. She explores the intricate relationship between hard work, diversity, and success in entrepreneurship and farming, emphasizing the invaluable lessons drawn from both arenas. Marcie discusses the pioneering spirit of farmers and how their innovative approaches resonate with today’s technological advancements.
Read More
E441 – Current & Critical – Luticia L. Miller, Embracing Change in Construction with Indigenous Collaboration and Leadership
In this episode, enjoy a deeply insightful conversation with Luticia Miller, Vice President of Project Development at First Nations Major Projects Coalition (FNMPC), President & Partner at Drive Modular Company, and a proud Cree-Métis woman. She unpacks the pressing challenges in the construction industry, from resistance to change due to fears and time constraints, to the ever-important human element in technology and safety. Luticia also shares invaluable perspectives on creating an inclusive workplace and the significance of First Nations' voices in project planning.
Read More
E440 – Current & Critical – Derek Hovinga, Shaping Startup Success: Insights on Inbound Marketing and Industry Trends
In this episode, quench your curiosity about content marketing with Inbound & Content Marketing Specialist, Derek Hovinga. Gain valuable insights into balancing creative content with technical optimization, understanding the non-linear customer journey, and the significance of staying top-of-mind through retargeting. The episode also touches on the importance of fostering innovation hubs and collaboration within the startup community. Derek shares his enthusiasm for tech conferences and his optimistic outlook on the evolving startup environment in Western Canada.
Read More
E439 – Current & Critical – Charles Osuji, Fostering Innovation and Diversity in the Legal Sector: A Journey of Growth and Mentorship
In this episode, get a legal education with Charles Osuji, the CEO and Managing Partner of Osuji & Smith Lawyers. Born from his remarkable journey from Nigeria to Calgary, Charles shares how embracing challenges and seizing opportunities have shaped his path and the growth of his firm. Learn how critical mentorship was in Charles's journey and how he now extends this by fostering a supportive environment for internationally trained lawyers through his 'Foot in the Door Initiative.'
Read More
E438 – Current & Critical – Michael Gaudet, Exploring the Power of Fractional CMOs in Competitive Marketing
In this engaging episode, host Tyler Chisholm sits down with Michael Gaudet, Principal at 80 20 CMO, to explore the impactful world of fractional CMOs and their role in driving business success. Michael delves into his strategic playbook for launching as a fractional CMO, highlighting the importance of a hyper-niche model and the delivery of targeted value to specific use cases. Gain an in-depth understanding of how fractional CMOs can offer critical marketing leadership without the burden of a full-time hire, particularly for scaling companies that have raised venture capital.
Read More
E437 – Current & Critical – Elliot D. Schneier, Insights on Scaling Startups, Market Trends and Mastering Remote Work
In this episode, hear from Elliot Schneier, the dynamic COO of Virtual Gurus. Join us as we explore Elliot’s profound journey from helping founders raise over $750 million at Fundable, to his current role at Virtual Gurus, where he’s at the forefront of innovative AI-powered virtual assistant technology. Elliot shares invaluable insights on the shifting landscape of venture capital, emphasizing the critical pivot towards seed and pre-seed funding. He also discusses the unique opportunities emerging in secondary cities like Calgary, the evolving role of remote work, and the exciting sectors driving entrepreneurship’s future.
Read More
E436 – Current & Critical – Jennifer Massig, Revolutionizing Engineering: Community-Focused Innovation and a New Workplace Culture
In this episode, discover an innovative approach to engineering and workplace culture with Jennifer Massig, CEO of MAGNA Engineering Services. Jennifer shares her inspiring journey from embracing engineering to innovating in community-based water treatment solutions, highlighting the power of listening and consensus in creating solutions that align with community values. Jennifer began her own business to ensure substantial flexibility as a single mom of two young girls, and that flexibility is baked into MAGNA’s culture, as it introduced a four-day workweek to provide a culture of care across its team.
Read More
E435 – Current & Critical – Jen Lussier, Fostering Community and Connections in Calgary’s Tech Industry
In this episode, get a detailed look at the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship in Calgary, particularly within the tech sector with Jen Lussier, COO of Platform Calgary. Jenn delivers a comprehensive run-down of the support structures available to entrepreneurs in Calgary, the importance of non-traditional business environments like mixed-use spaces, and the vision of creating a community-centric hub akin to a 'central library' for tech.
Read More
E434 – Current & Critical – Colleen Pound, How to Transform Professional Services with Data & Analytics
In this episode, explore the exciting world of entrepreneurship and innovation with Colleen Pound, CEO and Co-Founder of Proxure. Colleen unveils her latest venture, Proxure, which aims to revolutionize professional services procurement with cutting-edge data analytics, starting with the legal sector. From motivations to milestones, Colleen shares her path to becoming an entrepreneur, emphasizing the importance of addressing genuine client pain points and integrating customer feedback into product development.
Read More
E433 – Current & Critical – Aleia Robin, Branch Out Bike Tour 2024 – A Must-Attend Event
In this episode, discover how to pedal your way to progress, accelerating tech solutions for neurological disorders with Branch Out Neurological Foundation’s annual Bike Tour and Aleia Robin, Managing Director. The Branch Out Bike Tour is the Foundation’s largest annual fundraising event, which has contributed to the over $3.5M raised to date for neurological research.
Read More
E432 – Current & Critical – Kevin Crowe, Mission for Miles – 1,400 KM in the Yukon to Raise $ for a Great Cause
In this episode, discover why, after a life-altering battle with Trigeminal Neuralgia, also known as the suicide disease due to the excruciating pain it causes, ultra-marathon-participant and senior executive Kevin knew he could come back stronger than ever. His next ambitious project? A 1,400-kilometre-long trek through the Yukon, split between a summer paddleboarding down the Yukon River and a winter expedition on foot. Why take on this extreme event? To raise 37 flights for his charity, Give A Mile.
Read More
E431 – Current & Critical – Dan Balaban, Exposing the Realities: Navigating the Storm of Renewable Energy Politics
In this episode, explore the challenging dynamics of Alberta’s renewable energy sector with Dan Balaban, Co-Founder and CEO of Greengate Power. Dan emphasizes the importance of setting realistic goals, fostering collaboration over confrontation, and the coexistence of different energy forms to create a robust system. While navigating skepticism and embracing a history that teaches us never to take peace for granted, Dan suggests how business leaders can drive change and advocate for an inclusive, resilient energy future for all.
Read More
