In this episode, Brenda Beckedorf, CEO of Society 5.0, takes us on an eye-opening journey through the pulse of Alberta’s business landscape, where 4,000 startups are part of a 160,000-strong network of companies reshaping traditional industries like energy and construction. She unpacks AI and digital transformation’s pivotal role in this shift while confronting the reality that 22% of the workforce is set to retire in the next five years. With younger generations embracing a tech-forward lifestyle and remote work, she paints a vivid picture of a future where adaptability is key. Her call to action? Leaders must evolve—fast.
Read MoreIn this episode, get the lay of the investment landscape in Western Canada with returning guest and General Partner at Weave VC, Mark Mitchell. Mark highlights the importance of long-term relationships and ‘patient capital’ in the investment process through a story of why it took five years to complete his eighth investment and why this slow, thorough approach leads to outsized returns.
Read MoreIn this episode, the CEO of InceptionU, Margo Purcell, walks us through her meticulously crafted formula for tackling new challenges, inspired by a focus on creating opportunities to enable clients to become future-fit, emphasizing their ability to cope with and respond to change effectively. We tackle the nuts and bolts of complex decision-making, and how understanding the root problem is essential before implementing solutions. Margo sheds light on the pitfalls of default thinking and the crucial role of continuous learning in adapting to rapid technological changes.
Read MoreIn this episode, hear from clearmotive marketing’s new Director of Digital Marketing, Jake Surrey, as he shares critical insights on Google's antitrust trial, emphasizing the need for skepticism and quality expertise in navigating ad platforms. He shares his theories on why Google is corralling its advertisers into vague products, like performance max campaigns and tips on how small companies with small budgets can make a big impact online.
Read MoreIn this episode, explore the evolving landscape of AI and its implications for society, education, and ethical decision-making with Dr. Lauren J. Dwyer, Assistant Professor of Information Design at Mount Royal University. Lauren highlights fields where AI is making strides, including medical advancements, computer vision, language translation, self-driving vehicles, and climate change prediction, and the critical role of human decision-making alongside AI integration.
Read MoreIn this episode, Jake Stika, co-founder and executive director of Next Gen Men, offers a deep dive into the evolving conversations around gender and masculinity in today's society. Jake discusses the impact of figures like Joe Rogan and Andrew Tate, the role of the “Manosphere,” and the growing recognition of men’s issues among women. Through a candid and empathetic lens, Jake reveals how redefining masculinity can lead to more inclusive workplaces and healthier, more productive leaders. As the business world shifts towards diversity, equity, and inclusion, understanding these gender dynamics is crucial for fostering a culture of innovation and resilience.
Read MoreIn this episode, explore the future of fleet vehicles—specifically electric school buses—in Canada with Cedric Smith, Director of Transportation at Pollution Probe. Cedric kicks off the episode with a financial analysis comparing electric and diesel school buses, revealing that while electric buses have a higher initial cost, federal incentives make them more cost-effective over a 13-year period. Cedric emphasizes the importance of publicly shared research in aiding fleet operators to make informed decisions, particularly in cold Canadian climates.
Read MoreIn this episode, discover the four building blocks to successful digital transformation with Kamales Lardi, CEO of Lardi and Partner Consulting, keynote speaker and globally recognized digital transformation expert. Joining all the way from Zurich, Switzerland, Kamales will help you understand the challenges traditional companies face in adapting to change and the significance of purpose in driving sustainable success.
Read MoreIn 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 MoreIn 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 MoreIn 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 MoreIn 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 MoreIn 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 MoreIn 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 MoreIn 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 MoreIn 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 MoreIn 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 MoreIn 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.'
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