Canada’s Entrepreneur

Steeson Mathew is passionate about innovative ideas and is always looking to promote innovation. Steeson shares his journey from India to Canada, where he studied business management and civil technology. Steeson also shared his past experience working in parking lots while studying. And now as founder of Loop Parking he’s pioneering smart parking solutions for cities. Loop Parking, with its AI-driven ParkSense+ feature, offers drivers real-time parking availability, streamlining city life and reducing congestion. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Thomas J. Sandrin is a highly experienced marketing and branding professional in the luxury watch industry with over 15 years of expertise. Originally from Paris, he relocated to Canada almost two decades ago and established himself as the Canadian Brand Manager for Hamilton Watches, part of the Swatch Group, where he developed a strong reputation and a deep understanding of luxury brand requirements. Thomas further enhanced his skills by pursuing an MBA with the prestigious Australian Institute of Business. As the Founder and President of Northern Watch Services Inc. (NWS), Thomas empowers authorized jewellers and luxury brands to enhance their brand presence through various services, including e-commerce, social media support, and marketing consulting. His latest venture, WatchDNA.com, aims to connect jewellers with watch enthusiasts. This platform bridges the gap between watch enthusiasts, jewellers and brands, uniting those who share a passion for timepieces and the unique stories behind them. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Leigh Christie is a Vancouver-based engineer/entrepreneur with degrees from UBC & MIT. He invented the machine vision robotic heat spotlight, and The Mondo Spider; a 1,500lb walking machine. In 2009 Leigh co-founded MistyWest, a leading product engineering design firm focused on novel sensors, low-power wireless & edge AI. MistyWest recently created an inference/vision edge device called MistyVision. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Jennifer Layman has worked as a marketing consultant with businesses and entrepreneurial-minded organizations since 2006 and found they often face some common issues. This led her to publish my first book - Forward Thinking for Your Business - to reach a broader business audience. As a business owner, she understands the responsibilities of running a business and the time constraints that come with it. If marketing advice is going to be impactful, it needs to be succinct and easy to implement without a tremendous requirement of resources. Her book focuses on maximizing marketing opportunities that can help scale your business. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Raelene Bergen is a renowned leadership consultant, Founder, and CEO of Origin Leadership Consulting. Raelene is a passionate advocate for innovative problem-solving and creative thinking in leadership. Raelene is the author of the inspirational e-book, Your One Life: A Personal Account. She is a thought leader, motivational keynote speaker, a truly gifted consultant, and a parent of five with a Master’s degree in Leadership. With her wealth of experience in guiding leaders to think outside the box and navigate complex issues, Raelene has developed unique insights and practical strategies that resonate deeply with audiences. A successful entrepreneur and academic who has raised five kids, Raelene embodies resilience, time management, and the ability to juggle diverse responsibilities. Her personal life enriches her professional work, allowing her to connect with a broad audience on multiple levels. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Adeyinka Adedoja is the founder of WeivSync, based in Toronto, Canada. Her passion to create WeivSync is rooted in her passion for travel and the challenges she faced as an immigrant navigating a new country. Although she started with a background in finance and economics, working in roles at the Toronto Stock Exchange and as a business analyst in a SaaS company, it was only when she moved into product management that she truly felt energized. This role aligned perfectly with her love for problem-solving and innovation, setting the stage for the creation of WeivSync. My personal travel experiences, filled with language barriers, missed connections, and serendipitous moments, inspired WeivSync. I wanted to create something that makes solo travel smoother, safer, and more connected. WeivSync is like having a knowledgeable friend who’s always there to help, offering personalized itineraries, real-time translation, and 24/7 assistance. Traveling has given me countless stories, like getting lost in a foreign city and finding a hidden gem or a miscommunication turning into an adventure. My favorite quote, "We're on offense. All the time," reminds me to take initiative and create opportunities. I’m excited to share my journey and the creation of WeivSync on Canada Podcast. Whether you’re a seasoned solo traveler or dreaming of your first big adventure, I hope my stories inspire you to explore the world with more confidence and curiosity. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Craig Senyk is Board Chair at Mawer Investment Management. His true passion is social investment. He is passionate about supporting initiatives and organizations that lead to better outcomes for children, arts, culture and sport. At Mawer, the team responsible for community giving looks for organizations helping to alleviate poverty in the communities they work and live. The three underlying pillars of the Mawer strategy are: education, with an emphasis on financial literacy and empowerment; healthcare, with an emphasis on mental health; and, basic needs, such as food and shelter. Senyk believes that corporate and social entities are not separate entities. Senyk also has launched the Calgary Jamboree for Charity. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Matt Panousis, is the Co-Founder & COO at MARZ which stands for Monsters Aliens Robots Zombies. MARZ is an AI-enabled VFX company on a mission to help Hollywood studios push the boundaries, quality, and volume of TV. and has developed an AI platform called lipdub.ai. A lawyer by training and entrepreneur with a demonstrated history of success co-founding and scaling B2B technology start-ups including ACTO (venture-backed by Salesforce Ventures, Resolve Growth Partners and Panache Ventures) and currently Monsters Aliens Robots Zombies (venture-backed by Round13 Capital, Rhino Ventures, Harlo Equity Partners and John Cassaday) with a focus on company strategy, product, operations and growth. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Magdalena Czyz is a certified health coach and public speaker. She specializes in effortless weight loss, overcoming burnout, and showing people how to find freedom from their minds to ease anxiety and depression. She also runs corporate wellness and leadership workshops where she teaches employees how to manage stress better to boost performance and employee morale. She is also a dancer. She performs at corporate and private events with different props, from LED wings and fans to silk flags. She is passionate about bringing a sense of freedom to the crowd and encouraging others to express themselves through movement. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Max Braden, is the Founder and President of CPOS, from Ottawa, Ontario. CPOS is a technology company that powers small businesses with tools to compete effectively with big businesses. CPOS empowers small businesses with technology that removes friction from operating and growing their business. Max is a young and successful entrepreneur who's been running full force with the vision to help small businesses succeed for over 10 years now. His experience and drive are inspiring to the people around him, and we think he would have a positive impact on entrepreneurs anywhere who are facing similar challenges. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Amanda Burgener is the co-founder of Curbside Concerts, a Calgary-based company that delivers live music right to your door, or driveway, or anywhere! With a mandate for equality, safety, and mental health, Curbside Concerts has kept live music in neighbourhoods, and local musicians working throughout the pandemic and beyond. Now in its 4th year of business, Curbside has seen incredible growth, media attention, and even awards and nominations from YYC Music, Western Canadian Music Awards, Alberta Touring Arts Alliance, Canadian Live Music Association, and Music Cities. Most importantly, they have paid out over $750,000 to performing artists in Canada. With a background in the Arts (B.Music from the University of Calgary), live events, and local business management, Amanda combines creativity with a desire to uplift her community. As a citizen of the Métis Nation of Alberta, she is proud to foster inclusiveness and an Indigenous lens in her industry. Matt 'Masters' Burgener is a Calgary based country and western musician and a co-founder of Curbside Concerts. A veteran performer, playrite and storyteller, Matt’s 25 year, 7 album career has taken him across Canada and on ten international tours. For 5 years he led the house band at the King Eddy, he’s played numerous times at the Saddledome for the Calgary Flames and he’s a 17 year member of Barney Bentall’s Cariboo Express, helping raise over 5 million dollars for Canadian charities. Matt has a background in music business, working as a consultant, producer and advisor for different not-for-profits, the City of Calgary arts and culture department, the National Music Center, different music festivals and with CKUA Radio. Matt has a BA in History from the University of Calgary. He and Amanda and they have 3 young kids. Matt is a first generation Albertan living in Treaty 7 territory. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Purya Sarmadi is a healthcare professional with an accomplished background in healthcare technology. He is a health informatics and analytics professional that has become an entrepreneur. Purya is Co-Founder & CEO at MedMe Health where they are building the operating system for the pharmacies of the future, shifting today’s dispensaries to tomorrow’s community healthcare hubs. Pharmacies are in the community. 95% of North Americans live within 5 miles of a pharmacy. Primary care is in a crisis and chronic diseases are increasing. And so that's kind of why they started Medme. And today they are already Canada's leading clinical services platform for pharmacies. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

From drinks executive to diplomat, adventure travel outfitter to creator of Canada's largest chain of veterinary clinics, David Farran is a pioneer. David connects a love for agriculture, a deep understanding of craft artisanal spirits and a conviction that Alberta should be the home of 'best in class' distilled products. David's storied career gave him a special skill set to support the founding of Alberta's first craft distillery. David's awards and accolades include Ernst & Young's Entrepreneur of the Year, Canada's 50 Best Managed Companies, Alberta's 50 Most Influential People and many others. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Dr. Anmol Kapoor is an experienced Cardiologist, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, Humanitarian, Innovator, and founder of many successful healthcare ventures. His interests are in Artificial Intelligence, Genomics, Blockchain technologies. In medicine, his interests are in primary and secondary prevention of cardiac diseases, vascular medicine, epidemiology, heart failure, genomics, women's health and health initiatives in visible minorities. He completed medical school in Russia and gained technical knowledge in the management of information systems at the University of Lethbridge. Strong healthcare services professional with a Internal Medicine residency at the University of Alberta and completed Cardiology residency at the University of Manitoba. He mastered Carotid Ultrasounds at the Cleveland Clinic. He is an author, a public speaker and an International award winner for his work in the field of improving healthcare outcomes in vulnerable minorities and women. Dr. Anmol Kapoor also founded BioAro, a biotechnology company specializing in genomics, artificial intelligence and blockchain technologies. BioAro offers Whole Genome Sequencing, Microbiome testing, and software solutions. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Sir Darren Jacklin stands as a paragon of professional achievement and philanthropic dedication, with a career marked by significant accomplishments and a life dedicated to global impact. Over 25 years, he has personally trained executives and teams from 157 Fortune 500 companies, showcasing his unparalleled expertise in corporate training and personal development. A seasoned world traveler, Sir Darren has visited over 50 countries across four continents, enriching his global perspective and enhancing his ability to connect with diverse audiences. As a world-class speaker and corporate trainer, he has shared his knowledge with over 1 million people worldwide, directly impacting countless lives through his engaging and transformative educational sessions. His prowess and influence have been recognized at some of the highest levels of the financial world, having had the honor of ringing the Closing Bell at Nasdaq three times and the Opening Bell at the CBOE Exchange in Chicago for Vocodia Holdings Corp. (VHAI), further cementing his standing in the global business community. Beyond his professional endeavors, Sir Darren's commitment to philanthropy is profound. He is actively engaged in raising $100 million for Global Philanthropy Projects, channeled through his International LY2NK Foundation and Elevate 2 Educate (E2E) initiatives. His work aims to create sustainable, positive change across the globe, reflecting his dedication to leveraging his success for the greater good. Sir Darren's business acumen is also evident in his role as the first Independent Board of Directors Member of eXp World Holdings (Nasdaq: EXPI), a multi-billion dollar international real estate company. His decade-long service to the company is a testament to his strategic vision and leadership, contributing to the growth and success of over 85,000 licensed real estate agents and brokers in 24 countries. His advisory roles extend to multiple international boards across various sectors, including real estate, cyber security, artificial intelligence, and travel, where his insights and expertise continue to drive innovation and growth. As an investor and partner in multiple international companies, Sir Darren's entrepreneurial spirit and financial acumen have not only contributed to his status as a multimillionaire but have also inspired and facilitated numerous ventures across the globe. An acclaimed international author, his book "UNTIL I BECOME" has empowered and motivated a global audience, sharing his journey and the lessons learned along the way. His contributions to global philanthropy and entrepreneurship were formally recognized in 2022 when he was knighted by His Royal Highness of The Royal Order of Cappadocia from Spain, a prestigious acknowledgment of his efforts to make a tangible difference worldwide. Sir Darren's adventurous spirit and commitment to challenging himself are demonstrated by his successful summit of Mount Kilimanjaro in 2023 and his planned expedition to Mount Vinson in Antarctica in 2025 to raise funds for his philanthropic foundation. With over 7,000 written goals, Sir Darren Jacklin's life is a testament to the power of ambition, discipline, and the desire to leave a lasting impact on the world. His journey reflects a relentless pursuit of excellence, both personally and professionally, and a deep-rooted commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. "Get ready for an inspiring conversation with Sir Darren Jacklin, a man who embodies achievement and philanthropy. Over 25 years, he's trained executives from 157 Fortune 500 companies, traveled to over 50 countries and inspired over a million people through his speaking. He's even rung the Nasdaq Closing Bell three times! Sir Darren's dedication to global change shines through his International LY2NK Foundation, aiming to raise $100 million for philanthropy. As the first independent board member of eXp World Holdings, he's a leader in real estate and beyond. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

In this video interview, Juliette Nicolaÿ, Policy Analyst with the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, discusses the importance of the Temporary Foreign Worker program to the national economy. Juliette Nicolaÿ PRESS RELEASE TORONTO, June 12, 2024 /CNW/ – As Ottawa is looking to overhaul its Temporary Foreign Worker (TFW) program, most agri-businesses (59%) say they would be in favour of a multi-employer work permit as an option, to enable employers to share a foreign worker, finds new research by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB). However, the majority of agribusiness owners don’t support sectoral and/or regional work permits whether it’s under the current (59%) or a new program structure where a third party would recruit and dispatch a pool of foreign workers (50%), as they fear such permits could facilitate employee poaching and hinder retention. “While government is reviewing its TFW program, it needs to consider the practical needs of agri-businesses and the future of Canada’s food security,” said Juliette Nicolaÿ, CFIB’s policy analyst. “Farmers are already struggling with chronic staffing shortages and when they turn to foreign labour, it’s only as a last resort because they can’t find anyone locally. That’s concerning given Canada’s ageing population and a perceived lack of interest among Canadian workers in a career in agriculture.” CFIB data found that three in 10 agri-businesses hired foreign workers in 2023. The reliance on foreign workers is even more pronounced in certain regions, such as Quebec (51%), and sub-sectors characterized by labor intensive tasks, such as the fruits, vegetable and horticultural specialties (64%). According to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), among employers who hired TFWs, 92% said foreign workers helped them meet demand for their products or services, while 89% said that TFWs helped them stay in business. Myths surrounding TFWs There are many misconceptions around the program such as that TFWs aren’t paid sufficient wages or they’re mistreated by their employers. In fact, most (85%) TFWs are paid the same wage as Canadians, and only 3.5% are paid less. The federal government also conducts regular inspections to ensure health and safety of foreign workers, with 94% of employers inspected found to be compliant on 26 different criteria, according to ESDC. “While there may be isolated bad actors that should not be tolerated, agri-businesses highly value foreign workers, and they take time and effort to bring TFWs to Canada. They cover costs that go beyond wages like housing, transport, and health care. It is also common for farmers to have the same TFWs come back year after year. Some also sponsor foreign workers to become permanent residents,” said Francesca Basta, CFIB’s research analyst. To improve the TFW program’s efficiency, the federal government should consider: Reducing red tape associated with hiring TFWs, notably streamlining the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process Allowing for the sharing or transferring foreign workers as an option (e.g., multi-employer work permit) Indexing the housing deduction to inflation – it is currently $30, which does not reflect real housing prices Allowing employers to match the wages offered by another employer with an LMIA in the same area to strengthen retention and curtail poaching. Provisions under the Employer Compliance Regime currently limit this. Reimbursing the employer for the costs associated with the administration and enforcement of the compliance inspection, should the LMIA not be issued Introducing a mechanism to compensate initial costs covered by the employer whose employee has been poached and streamlining access to new TFWs. Read the full Harvesting a solution: Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) key to mitigating agricultural labour shortages report here. About CFIB The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) is Canada’s largest association of small and medium-sized businesses with 97,000 members across every industry and region. CFIB is dedicated to increasing business owners’ chances of success by driving policy change at all levels of government, providing expert advice and tools, and negotiating exclusive savings. Learn more at cfib.ca. Mario Toneguzzi Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Podcast. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 as one of the Top 10 Business Journalists in the World by PR News – the only Canadian to make the list. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024. About Us Canada’s Podcast is the number one podcast in Canada for entrepreneurs and business owners. Established in 2016, the podcast network has interviewed over 600 Canadian entrepreneurs from coast-to-coast. With hosts in each province, entrepreneurs have a local and national format to tell their stories, talk about their journey and provide inspirat

Dan Kelly, President of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, discusses the impact of the capital gains inclusion rate on small businesses. Check out this video interview. PRESS RELEASE Toronto, June 20, 2024 – Half of Canada’s small business owners will be hit by the new 66.7% inclusion rate hike coming into effect on June 25, warns the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB). Despite government’s claim that the rate would affect only a tiny share of the wealthiest Canadians, over half (55%) of small business owners say it will affect the eventual sale of their business, 45% say it will affect the investments they hold privately, and 41% say it will affect investments held within their incorporated businesses. “Even the federal budget admits that 307,000 Canadian corporations had net capital gains in 2022 alone. Like individual Canadians, companies often record capital gains as a one time or occasional event, not every year. The impact of the hike in the inclusion rate needs to be measured over the long term, not just in any one given year,” said Dan Kelly, CFIB president. While the federal government has proposed a welcome increase in the Lifetime Capital Gains Exemption, this will not help business owners who sell the assets, rather than the shares, of their company. In addition, business owners who hold investments within their corporations for the owner’s retirement or for reinvestment in the company will be hit by the 66.7% inclusion rate on any capital gain as corporations are ineligible for the $250,000 annual allowance at the 50% level. “With details of the changes in the inclusion rate only coming out in last week’s Ways and Means Motion, business owners were only given two weeks to make informed decisions, leaving virtually no time to change gears. And details of the proposed Canadian Entrepreneurs’ Incentive have yet to be published, leaving entrepreneurs largely in the dark on this potentially beneficial change,” Kelly added. CFIB continues to push the government to: 1. Scrap the planned increase in the general inclusion rate to 66.7%. If government is unwilling to abandon this plan, it should: Grandfather all existing capital gains using a V-Day (valuation day) as was done in 1971 Allow corporations to benefit from $250,000 each year at 50% inclusion like individuals Allow for 5-year income averaging to benefit from the $250,000 annual threshold for larger capital gains for irregular events, like selling a property 2. Expand the new Canadian Entrepreneurs’ Incentive to include all entrepreneurs: Include all sectors, including farmers and fishers selling assets Include non-founders to encourage people to invest in small firms Cut the 10-year implementation schedule in half Read CFIB’s letter for a full list of recommendations on the proposed capital gains changes. Mario Toneguzzi Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Podcast. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 as one of the Top 10 Business Journalists in the World by PR News – the only Canadian to make the list. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024. About Us Canada’s Podcast is the number one podcast in Canada for entrepreneurs and business owners. Established in 2016, the podcast network has interviewed over 600 Canadian entrepreneurs from coast-to-coast. With hosts in each province, entrepreneurs have a local and national format to tell their stories, talk about their journey and provide inspiration for anyone starting their entrepreneurial journey and well- established founders. The commitment to a grass roots approach has built a loyal audience on all our social channels and YouTube – 500,000+ lifetime YouTube views, 200,000 + audio downloads, 35,000 + average monthly social impressions, 10,000 + engaged social followers and 35,000 newsletter subscribers. Canada’s Podcast is proud to provide a local, national and international presence for Canadian entrepreneurs to build their brand and tell their story

In this video interview, Sandra Odendahl, Senior Vice President & Head of Sustainability, Diversity & Social Impact at BDC, discusses the challenges Indigenous and Black-led businesses continue to face in Canada and what BDC is doing to help the situation. PRESS RELEASE Montreal, June 19, 2024 – The faces of entrepreneurship are changing. Despite a two-decade decline in the overall entrepreneur population, the number of Indigenous and Black-led businesses is growing, counteracting this trend. To ensure these business creators can thrive, BDC has created a dedicated Inclusive Entrepreneurship team, is launching a $50 million financing and training program, and investing $200 million in Indigenous and Black-led businesses. “Too many underrepresented entrepreneurs continue to face the same barriers that existed a decade, or even a generation ago,” said Isabelle Hudon, President and CEO, BDC. “Despite a lot of positive strides, we just aren’t moving quickly enough. It’s clear a one-size-fits all approach does not work and, like the entrepreneurs we serve, we must innovate. The initiatives announced today are part of BDC’s efforts to drive greater economic impacts and increase productivity.” As a development bank, BDC takes on more risk to help entrepreneurs and grow the economy. The bank identifies market gaps, and partners with others to create solutions that address the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs and that mainstream lenders can use. Using this same innovative approach, BDC is aiming to propel more businesses with three key initiatives. The bank’s new Inclusive Entrepreneurship Team leads with an inclusion mindset and puts that intention at the centre of every client experience. They have increased accountability with measurable targets around business development, and entrepreneur training and are already testing regional programs with business centres to better serve entrepreneurs where they are. Recognizing the barriers are highest, and trust is lowest, among the smallest and earliest-stage businesses, their first act was creating a new $50M program that provides loans, plus training, for businesses that are majority-owned by women, Indigenous and Black entrepreneurs and have revenues under $3 million. Lastly, BDC Capital, BDC’s investment arm, is creating two new $100M platforms to support Indigenous and Black-led businesses. This will complement the $500M Thrive Platform for Women (launched in 2022) which includes Indigenous and Black women entrepreneurs. The team is currently working to hire key roles from the Black and Indigenous communities and collaborating with them to design and set objectives for the platforms. More details will come later this year. “A critical driver of creating intergenerational wealth for Black communities is equitable support for Black-owned businesses,” said Lise Birikundavyi, Managing Partner, BKR Capital. “With less than 0.5% of venture capital dollars in North America going towards Black entrepreneurs, there is a clear gap to fill. Since we started our fund focused on Black founders, we have seen an incredible amount of quality opportunities, and we believe it is great news to see an organization like BDC join forces to create a more diversified and robust venture capital industry.” These initiatives expand BDC’s long-standing support for diverse entrepreneurs. Last year, BDC increased its women and Indigenous clients by 11% and 22% respectively. To date, BDC has committed over $8B dollars to underserved business owners directly through programs like the Indigenous Entrepreneur Loan and Thrive Fund, and indirectly through partners like Futurpreneur, FACE, NACCA, BKR Capital, and Raven Capital. Hundreds of free education resources are also available at bdc.ca. BDC’s mission is to support Canadian entrepreneurs to build strong and resilient businesses and, in doing so, contribute to creating a more prosperous, competitive, and inclusive Canada. Its corporate values – United for Entrepreneurs, Powered by People, and Courageously Impactful – are the building blocks of BDC’s corporate DNA. These values connect what the organization stands for to how it delivers on its mandate and corporate strategy. Additional Quotes “Indigenous Peoples are among the fastest growing populations in Canada and represent the highest growing segment of entrepreneurs,” said Althea Wishloff (Gitxsan Nation, Fireweed Clan), General Partner, Raven Indigenous Capital Partners. “At Raven, we have learned that taking a platform approach, supporting, and mentoring founders, while providing equity and equity-like capital in a culturally sensitive way is of utmost importance. We look forward to the growth of the ecosystem, new businesses being born and new co-investors emerging.” “Women make up half our population and workforce, yet less than 20% are majority owners in Canadian businesses,” said Marwa Abdou, Senior Research Director, Canadian Chamber of Commerce. “Our most recent report

Phil Soper, president and chief executive officer, Royal LePage, discusses why renters still want to buy a home despite the costs. Video interview can be seen here. Phil Soper PRESS RELEASE TORONTO, June 20, 2024 /CNW/ – One third of Canadians live in rental accommodations, and that figure has been gradually increasing in recent years, as affordability challenges in the resale market persist. According to a recent Royal LePage survey, conducted by Hill & Knowlton, 27 per cent of Canadians who currently rent their home say they plan to purchase a property in the next two years. Among those aged 18 to 34, that figure jumps to 40 per cent. Meanwhile, 69 per cent of renters say they do not plan to buy a home in the near future. Among them, more than half (54%) do not feel their income will be sufficient to afford a property in the area where they wish to live (61% among respondents aged 18 to 34). “The rental sector is not immune to the significant affordability challenges stemming from Canada’s acute housing shortage. High mortgage rates have made it difficult for many to purchase a home, forcing some to move into, or remain longer than planned, in the rental market,” said Phil Soper, president and chief executive officer, Royal LePage. “Despite a short-lived decline in prices and demand for rental units during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the available supply of rental properties in most major markets remains ultra low.” Of renters who say they plan to buy within the next two years, half (50%) say they will have a down payment of less than 20 per cent. Twenty-six per cent say they will put 20 per cent down, while 15 per cent say they will have a down payment of more than 20 per cent. In Canada, mortgage insurance is required for homes purchased with less than 20 per cent down. When asked how they will come up with their down payment, 53 per cent of respondents said they will use savings accumulated over the years, while 46 per cent said they will take advantage of the First Home Savings Account (FHSA), and 29 said they will draw on their RRSPs using the Home Buyer’s Plan (HBP). Twenty-five per cent said they will use a financial gift from family or an inheritance. Respondents were able to select more than one answer. Forty-four per cent of renters planning to purchase in the next two years believe they will be able to afford a home in their current city of residence, while 37 per cent do not. Among those who don’t believe they can buy in their current location, 40 per cent say they will have to travel more than 50 kilometres to buy within their budget, while 21 per cent believe they will have to search for a property within a 31-50 kilometre radius and 18 per cent say they would need to look within a 16-30 kilometre radius. Only 9 per cent of respondents are confident they could buy within 15 kilometres of their current location. According to the Royal LePage 2024 Most Affordable Canadian Cities Report, 50 per cent of people living in the greater regions of Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver, say they would consider relocating to a more affordable city, if they were able to find a job or work remotely. Among renters in these regions, 60 per cent say they’d be willing to relocate, while 45 per cent of current homeowners say they would consider it. “We know that Canadians widely consider home ownership a worthwhile long-term investment and a quintessential part of the Canadian dream. So much so, that many are willing to relocate in order to make their home ownership dreams a reality. This is especially true for young Canadians and those who have remote work flexibility. I believe we will continue to see migration from southern Ontario and high-priced regions in B.C. to more affordable markets across the country in the future,” said Soper. Nearly a third of renters hoped to buy prior to signing their lease Before signing or renewing their current lease, 29 per cent of Canadian renters say they considered purchasing a property. Among them, 41 per cent say the lack of a sufficient down payment led to their decision to rent instead. “While a third of Canadian adults are currently renting, and there are families who are perfectly content doing so, the desire for home ownership remains strong among a large portion of this segment of the population. Our latest research reveals that a material number of renters wish to transition to home ownership. Understandably, the greatest barrier to entry is the ability to drum up the initial capital for a down payment,” continued Soper. When asked about the motivating factors behind their decision to continue renting rather than buy, approximately one third of respondents said they were waiting for interest rates (33%) and property prices (30%) to decrease. Twenty-two per cent said they are continuing to rent while saving for a down payment, and 20 per cent said they did not qualify for a mortgage. Respondents were able to select more than one answer. “Earlier this month

Sueling Ching, President & CEO, Ottawa Board of Trade, discusses a recent report in collaboration with the Canadian Urban Institute to revolutionize downtown Ottawa. The video interview can be seen here. PRESS RELEASE Ottawa – May 22nd, 2024, – Today, the Ottawa Board of Trade, in collaboration with the Canadian Urban Institute is thrilled to announce a landmark initiative that promises to revolutionize downtown Ottawa and the region. The Downtown Ottawa Action Agenda aims to reimagine and rejuvenate Downtown Ottawa, making it more diverse, resilient, and vibrant for generations and challenges to come. Under the plan, Downtown Ottawa will see the addition of 40,000 new residents and the creation of 50,000 jobs by 2034, transforming the cityscape into a bustling hub of activity and innovation. The plan proposes creating a joint $500 million fund to kick-start a series of catalytic projects, including significant enhancements to the public realms of Sparks Street and ByWard Market, and the establishment of a new Business Incubation District and an Arts/Culture Corridor. “This is more than a plan; it’s a renaissance for Ottawa’s downtown,” said Sueling Ching, President & CEO, Ottawa Board of Trade. “By fostering a live-work-play environment, we are not only boosting the local economy but also creating a culturally rich, inclusive, and accessible downtown for all to enjoy. And a Capital City all Canadians can be proud of.” The action plan was developed by the Canadian Urban Institute in partnership with the City of Ottawa, Ottawa Tourism, Invest Ottawa, BOMA Ottawa and the National Capital Commission. “Our collaborative approach ensures that the transformation of Downtown Ottawa not only meets the economic and cultural needs of today but paves the way for future generations,” said Brendan McGuinty, Board Chair, Ottawa Board of Trade. As Downtown Ottawa transforms, it will serve as a model of urban renewal, showcasing the power of strategic investment and community collaboration in building a thriving, dynamic city center. The Ottawa Board of Trade invites residents, businesses, and all stakeholders to join in this exciting journey to reshape our capital’s core. Top Five Immediate Actions: Prioritize Housing: Streamlining processes to increase downtown residency through higher density and use of public land. Invest in the Future: Establishing financial mechanisms for ongoing downtown investment. Address Homelessness, Addiction, and Mental Health: Implementing focused programs with multi-level government funding. Improve Regional Mobility: Enhancing transit options to make downtown more accessible. Position Downtown Nationally and Internationally: Marketing efforts to boost economic activity and enhance downtown’s image. “Downtown Ottawa’s revitalization is a blueprint for how cities can harness urban space to meet the challenges of the 21st century, “said Mary Rowe, President & CEO, Canadian Urban Institute. “By focusing on inclusivity, resilience, and vibrant public spaces, Ottawa is setting a standard for urban innovation.” “We’re taking a Team Ottawa approach to our downtown. By coming together as a community, we’re not just revitalizing our core, but also setting the stage for a dynamic and resilient future for all Ottawa residents,” said Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe. Background: The Ottawa Board of Trade is the voice of business and a key economic partner in the National Capital Region. Our mission is to cultivate a thriving world class business community. One that drives affordable, inclusive, and sustainable city building. We are champions of Ottawa as the best place to live, work, play, learn, visit, and invest. For information, visit www.ottawabot.ca. The Canadian Urban Institute is a national platform where policy makers, urban professionals, civic and business leaders, community activists and academics can learn, share, and collaborate with one another from coast to coast to coast. Through research, engagement, and storytelling, CUI’s mission is to support vibrant, equitable, livable, and resilient cities in Canada. For information, visit https://canurb.org/ Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Podcast. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 as one of the Top 10 Business Journalists in the World by PR News – the only Canadian to make the list. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024. About Us Canada’s Podcast is the number one podcast in Canada for entrepreneurs and business owners. Established in 2016, the podcast network has interviewed over 600 Canadian entrepreneurs from coast-to-coast. With hosts in each province, entrepreneurs have a local and national format to tell their stories, talk about their journey and provide inspiration for anyone starting their entrepreneurial journey and well- established founders. The commitment to a grass roots approach has built a loyal

Todd Sloane is the Principal/Creative Director of Tag Advertising, a full-service advertising agency that has been consistently producing creative work for over 32 years. Todd comes from the visual side of the world and has the strength to develop extraordinary concepts and focused creative strategies. Not only have Todd’s talents earned him the respect of clients and competitors alike, but his bold creativity and sound business sense won him the title of Western Canada’s Entrepreneur of the Year. Todd has worked with a wide variety of regional and national accounts, such as ATA, TacoTime Canada, Imax Theaters International, Toyota Canada, General Motors Canada, Canadian Tire Reit, and the United Way. He has his fingers on the pulse of the marketplace, which allows him to keep up with changes such as shorter product life cycles, environmental concerns, greater interest in consumer protection, the growth of services and not-for-profit marketing, and increased impact of technology across all sectors. Such insight has allowed Todd to build Tag into an agency that boasts a solid portfolio of award-winning creative that constantly exceeds clients’ objectives. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Amar Singh, the CEO and co-founder of Elevated Signals in Vancouver, began his entrepreneurial path at the LaunchPad tech accelerator where he met co-founders Benn and Hardeep. Their shared passion for cleantech and agtech led them to establish Elevated Signals, aiming to modernize manufacturing software for emerging sustainable industries. Amar brings a decade of experience managing multi-million dollar projects, including notable research facilities like the Biotron Experimental Climate Change Research Centre and the extraterrestrial Autonomous Robotic Greenhouse. His work is driven by a commitment to enhancing global health and societal well-being, focusing on food security and environmental sustainability. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Dave Wald is a native Calgarian having only lived for a few years in Vancouver when he was a kid. His love of adventuring and camping began during his family’s many trips in their 80’s station wagon and beat-up old tent trailer. Today, Dave has over 20 years of experience working in the outdoor recreation industry as a marketing professional. A memorable trip to Iceland in 2013 was the inspiration for Karma Campervans, the rental company he started in 2018 with his business partners. What started as five vans has grown to over 100 campervans built, locations across Canada, custom van projects, and a fantastic team passionate about creating amazing experiences for Karma Campervans Guests. Dave’s a family man who loves adventuring with his wife, two kids, and the family dog. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Ilya Goldman, has been in the internet marketing industry since 1996. He started his own web design and online marketing company in 2001 with a goal of bringing more businesses into the world wide web. He has worked on over a thousand web projects. His clients include huge organizations such as UBC Press, McGill Press, as well as very small companies with self-employed individuals. He is also certified by both Google and Microsoft. He has a wealth of knowledge on web design and online marketing through nearly 2 decades in this field. Whenever he works with clients he wants them to be aware of anything that would be helpful to them such as specific business grants for up to $15,000 and $2400 for digital presence. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Nadya Marwah is an Indian-Canadian photographer, film production professional, and founder of the Photo Poet Society, a mindful wedding photography company. She began her career journey in Mumbai, India, before relocating to Toronto, She left her hometown of Meerut, India at the age of 19 to pursue an education in Communication Design at MIT Institute of Design and later completed a post-graduate program in Film Production at the Vancouver Film School. The profound experience of deep meditation shifted her perspective on life. She is now a mindful visual creator, specializing in both photography and film. Alongside wedding and occasion photography, I have collaborated with musicians and film professionals, including three-time Juno-nominated musician Alysha Brilla and Canadian actor, director, and musician Steven McCarthy. Additionally, I have had the opportunity to work with businesses and not-for-profit organizations such as Compass Digital Ventures at SXSW in Austin, North Shore Restorative Justice Society (North Vancouver), Arvorei Communications Group (Vancouver), and Hawkeye Pictures (Toronto). Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

In this video interview, Beatrix Abdul Azeez, Policy Analyst with the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, discusses a new report outlining the consequences of a government mandated $20 per hour living wage. Beatrix Abdul Azeez PRESS RELEASE TORONTO, May 15, 2024 /CNW/ – Mandating a $20 per hour living wage in each province would cost the Canadian economy $44.9 billion in extra wages and put almost 600,000 small businesses at risk of becoming unprofitable, finds a new report by the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB). The report, entitled “Affordability, minimum wages, and living wages: Striking a balance for small businesses,” analyzes the impact of a $20/hour living wage, a proposal under consideration by several organizations. The report finds that governments need a new approach to address affordability challenges as traditional minimum wage and living wage policies fall short in addressing the root causes of the rising cost of living while simultaneously increasing costs on small businesses. “Minimum wage and living wage policies often miss the mark when it comes to truly supporting the most vulnerable workers. Governments are setting these wages with no anchor in economic reality, relying on subjective and unpredictable criteria,” said Beatrix Abdul Azeez, CFIB policy analyst. “Governments should shift away from relying on these blunt tools and instead adopt a new approach to ensure workers can cope with the rising cost of living, while also guaranteeing that small businesses aren’t unfairly burdened.” The cost of adopting a $20/hour living wage in each Canadian province Province Cost (millions) Small businesses at risk of unprofitability Newfoundland and Labrador $943 10,653 Prince Edward Island $332 3,100 Nova Scotia $1,933 14,048 New Brunswick $1,543 12,519 Québec $10,255 141,927 Ontario $16,741 200,387 Manitoba $2,748 23,485 Saskatchewan $1,823 18,432 Alberta $4,309 73,181 British Columbia $4,325 75,495 Canada $44,900 572,499 The unintended consequences of minimum wage increases Recent minimum wage hikes forced 60% of small businesses to raise wages for other workers and 59% of them to raise prices, contributing to current inflationary pressures. In addition, 31% of small businesses had to cut back on hiring young and unskilled workers, with 25% of them reducing overall employment. These findings underscore the need for a more nuanced approach to wage policies that consider the diverse impacts on both workers and businesses alike. “Canada’s cost of living crisis requires a more effective framework: making sure rent, food, and gas prices are affordable and stable while extending support to workers and small businesses through tax reductions,” added Jairo Yunis, CFIB’s director for BC and western economic policy. “This would go a long way in addressing Canada’s affordability shock.” CFIB recommends that governments: Alleviate the impact of rising minimum wages on small businesses by reducing other taxes and payroll costs (such as small business tax rate, CPP, EI, health/education payroll taxes, etc.) Establish a minimum wage setting process that is predictable, transparent, reflective of market conditions, and mindful of economic impacts. Link minimum wage adjustments to private sector wage growth or a predetermined percentage of the median wage. Address the root causes of the affordability crisis by enacting policies to increase the supply of housing, reduce energy taxes, and remove interprovincial and international trade barriers. Provide targeted fiscal support for vulnerable workers through reduced personal income tax rates, increased basic personal amounts, and expanded tax credits. Read the full report here. About CFIB The Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) is Canada’s largest association of small and medium-sized businesses with 97,000 members across every industry and region. CFIB is dedicated to increasing business owners’ chances of success by driving policy change at all levels of government, providing expert advice and tools, and negotiating exclusive savings. Mario Toneguzzi Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Podcast. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 as one of the Top 10 Business Journalists in the World by PR News – the only Canadian to make the list. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024. About Us Canada’s Podcast is the number one podcast in Canada for entrepreneurs and business owners. Established in 2016, the podcast network has interviewed over 600 Canadian entrepreneurs from coast-to-coast. With hosts in each province, entrepreneurs have a local and national format to tell their stories, talk about their journey and provide inspiration for anyone starting their entrepreneurial journey and well- established founders. The commitment to a grass roots approach has built a loyal audience on all our social channels and Y

n this video interview, Steve Mesler, Co-Founder of Classroom Champions, and Seth Rosenzweig, the organization’s new CEO, discuss what the organization does and the recent change in leadership. PRESS RELEASE Calgary, AB – Classroom Champions, a leading global charity empowering students socially, emotionally and academically through the mentorship and mindset of World Class Athlete Mentors, today announced a significant leadership transition. After over a year of planning, Steve Mesler, co-founder and Olympic gold medalist, will be stepping down from his role as CEO after 15 years and will take on a new position as Chair of the Board of Directors. Concurrently, Seth Rosenzweig, a seasoned nonprofit leader and former CEO of Team IMPACT, will assume the CEO role at Classroom Champions and guide the organization into the future. Mesler, a renowned U.S. Olympic bobsledder who broke the country’s 62-year draught when he won a gold medal in the four-man event at the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, co-founded Classroom Champions in 2009 with his sister Dr. Leigh Parise. Under his leadership, Classroom Champions has transformed the lives of hundreds of communities by connecting thousands of children with over 350 Olympic, Paralympic, NCAA, and professional Athlete Mentors who inspire and motivate them to achieve their goals in the classroom and beyond. Mesler has been instrumental in the organization’s development and growth, expanding its reach to serve millions of students across North America and around the globe through powerful partnerships such as NBC Olympics, the NHL, Airbnb, Canadian Tire’s Jumpstart charity, the Bualo Bills, Team Canada, Google, GoNoodle, and many more. Through his work building Classroom Champions over the past 15 years, Mesler has been recognized as a finalist for the International Champion for Peace, one of Sports Illustrated’s “Athletes Who Care,” and was recently awarded the Government of Canada’s second highest civilian award, the Meritorious Service Medal from the Governor General of Canada, for Classroom Champions’ contributions to educational opportunities for Canadian children. As Chair, Mesler will remain deeply involved and work with Rosenzweig to propel Classroom Champions into thousands more schools to reach millions more children. Reflecting on his transition, Mesler said, “Seeing Classroom Champions evolve into what it is today is both exciting and humbling. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved for so many children and look forward to continuing to support the organization’s mission in my new role as Chair of the Board of Directors. From the moment I met Seth, I recognized that his personal character, combined with his incredible experience building organizations leveraging athletes to help kids, meant that he could be the ideal leader to usher Classroom Champions into its next phase of growth and impact. I feel fortunate and excited he’ll be putting on the Classroom Champions jersey.” Seth Rosenzweig brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit leadership and a passion for youth empowerment to his new role as CEO of Classroom Champions. As the former CEO of Team IMPACT, Rosenzweig spearheaded the organization’s eorts to connect children facing serious and chronic illnesses with college athletic teams, fostering impactful relationships that provided crucial emotional support and inspiration. In his eight years stewarding Team IMPACT, Rosenzweig led the organization to unprecedented growth. Among Rosenzweig’s core objectives in the role is to expand Classroom Champions’ footprint across North America. Rosenzweig said, “I am honoured to join Classroom Champions as CEO and to work alongside such a dedicated team making a tangible dierence for students. I am deeply inspired by the organization’s mission to empower students through mentorship, and I am excited to begin advancing our impact and reach. I look forward to collaborating with our athlete mentors, educators, and partners to create positive change in the lives of even more deserving students.” As Classroom Champions embarks on this new chapter, the charity remains steadfast in its commitment to empowering students to become resilient, compassionate, and confident community leaders. About Classroom Champions Classroom Champions is a non-profit that has empowered over 5 million children to thrive socially, emotionally, and academically through the mentorship and mindsets of world-class athletes. Working with over 300 Olympic, Paralympic, NCAA student-athletes and professional athletes who volunteer as mentors, Classroom Champions has provided program and curriculum grants to underserved, rural, and Indigenous communities across the continent. Students participating in Classroom Champions see significant improvements in the classroom, teachers see improved engagement, and athlete mentors learn new skills to prepare for life after sport. Learn more at: www.classroomchampions.org. Mario Toneguzzi Mario Toneguzzi is Managin

Extreme athlete and motivational coach Andre Belibi Eloumou is going to tackle his toughest challenge yet, for a worthy cause that is very close to his heart. On May 24, the opening day of the 2024 Servus Calgary Marathon runners’ expo, Belibi will attempt to break the Guinness World Records title for the longest time for a man to be packed in ice. He is undertaking this mission to raise awareness and support for the millions of other people around the world, including his daughter Kira, with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The world record is four hours and two minutes. Andre is in the final stages of more than one-year of training and preparation for the world record attempt. Last Saturday (May 11), he undertook a test run being packed in ice for two hours outside The Fitness Guy Pete Estabrooks’ gym in Calgary’s historic Inglewood neighbourhood. Andre’s project is being generously supported by Run Calgary, Arctic Glacier Premium Ice, Spolumbo’s Fine Foods and Deli, The Home Depot, Ian Boyd – Central Calgary REAL Broker, Primextate Ltd., and a long list of other donors and supporters. Full Video can be seen here. Donations and sponsorships to the Ice Bath World Record for Autism project can be made on Audre’s GoFundMe page: https://gofund.me/21509e26 Tax-deductible donations to Autism Canada can be made through Andre’s Calgary Marathon charity fundraising page: https://raceroster.com/…/pledge/participant/24936493 For more information about Andre Belibi Coaching programs and services, visit: www.andrebelibicoaching.com Mario Toneguzzi Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Podcast. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 as one of the Top 10 Business Journalists in the World by PR News – the only Canadian to make the list. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024. About Us Canada’s Podcast is the number one podcast in Canada for entrepreneurs and business owners. Established in 2016, the podcast network has interviewed over 600 Canadian entrepreneurs from coast-to-coast. With hosts in each province, entrepreneurs have a local and national format to tell their stories, talk about their journey and provide inspiration for anyone starting their entrepreneurial journey and well- established founders. The commitment to a grass roots approach has built a loyal audience on all our social channels and YouTube – 500,000+ lifetime YouTube views, 200,000 + audio downloads, 35,000 + average monthly social impressions, 10,000 + engaged social followers and 35,000 newsletter subscribers. Canada’s Podcast is proud to provide a local, national and international presence for Canadian entrepreneurs to build their brand and tell their story AthletebusinessCanada's Number One Podcast for EntrepreneursentrepreneursentrepreneurshipIce Bathsmall business

In this video interview, Ryan Gubic, a Certified Financial Planner and Founder of MRG Wealth Management in Calgary, discusses the increasing financial stress Canadians are experiencing these days. PRESS RELEASE TORONTO, May 23, 2024 /CNW/ – From high grocery and gas prices to elevated inflation and housing costs, Canadians are grappling with money-related stressors that negatively impact their financial well-being. However, the 2024 Financial Stress Index, a national survey of 2,000+ Canadians conducted by Leger on behalf of FP Canada, shows that Canadians are prioritizing their financial health and feeling more hopeful about their financial futures than they did a year ago. FP Canada's 2024 Financial Stress Index finds money remains the leading source of stress for Canadians. (CNW Group/FP Canada) FP Canada’s 2024 Financial Stress Index finds money remains the leading source of stress for Canadians. (CNW Group/FP Canada) The survey reveals that while Canadians continue to grapple with financial worries, most are embracing strategies to reduce financial stress in the face of persistent economic pressures. While financial stress is on the rise, so is optimism, and the data speaks volumes: Canadians are recognizing the power of proactive financial management. The most striking revelation? Year-over-year findings continue to show that Canadians who work with a financial professional are less prone to money-related stress, more hopeful about their financial futures, and better positioned to navigate financial uncertainty with confidence. Financial Stress on the Rise as External Pressures Persist According to the 2024 Financial Stress Index, money remains the top source of stress for Canadians, with 44 per cent citing it as their primary concern. This number represents a steady increase from 2023 (40%), 2022 (38%) and 2021 (38%). External factors are a key piece of the puzzle, as Canadians cite elevated grocery prices (69%), inflation (60%) and housing-related costs (52%) as leading causes of financial stress. Amid widespread discussions about the impact of these pressing challenges, the data reaffirms the hurdles posed by the current economic environment. Financial stress continues to affect the mental health of Canadians. Nearly half (49%) have lost sleep over financial worries, and more than half (54%) report negative effects such as anxiety and depression (38%), disruptions in workplace productivity (16%) and strained personal relationships (16%). However, Canadians who work with a financial professional are less likely to lose sleep due to financial stress (42%) than those who do not (52%). “There’s no denying that persistent affordability concerns can cause significant financial strain, so it’s no surprise that Canadians are continuing to feel the impact of these difficult conditions,” says Meghan MacPherson, a QAFP® professional at Impact Financial Group Inc. “While thoughtful planning and proactive measures can help reduce financial stress caused by economic factors beyond our control, the Financial Stress Index shows that working with a financial professional can help Canadians create a sense of confidence and control in the face of uncertainty.” Impact of Financial Stress More Severe for Young Adults, Interest in Financial Planning Grows Younger generations are experiencing the highest levels of financial stress, with half (50%) of Canadians under the age of 35 citing money as a top stressor, compared to 42 per cent of those over 35. The survey also shows that financial stress weighs more heavily on the minds of younger Canadians, with nearly three-quarters (72%) stating that financial stress has had at least one negative impact on their lives, compared to less than half (48%) of Canadians over the age of 35. This cohort is also more likely (50%) to say they’ve experienced anxiety, depression, and mental health challenges due to financial stress than those over the age of 35 (34%). Although financial stress disproportionately affects the mental well-being of Canadians aged 18 to 34, 39 per cent recognize the value of creating a financial plan to mitigate stress compared to 22 per cent of those over 35. This trend may reflect a burgeoning curiosity about the advantages of financial planning among younger Canadians. Stress Less: The Power of Professional Financial Planning Support Data from the latest Financial Stress Index highlights Canadians’ eagerness to take control of their finances. However, navigating the intricacies of personal finances alone can pose challenges. Findings reveal that Canadians who don’t work with a financial professional are 33 per cent more likely to be stressed about money than those who do, and 23 per cent more likely to have lost sleep about financial worries. In contrast, those who work with a financial professional are more optimistic about their financial futures (56%) than those who don’t (48%). Working with a knowledgeable financial professional, such as a CFP® professi

Darby Lee Young, Founder and Principal Accessibility Strategist, Level Playing Field and a designated Rick Hansen Foundation (RHFAC) Professional. Darby’s ultimate goal has been to combine her lived experience with her professional life as an Accessibility Consultant. As a person born with mild cerebral palsy, Darby has been able to utilize this unique experience to her advantage, and her previous political appointments and competitive career as a para-alpine skier have provided her with an impactful perspective when approaching projects. Darby’s previous political appointments and achievements include serving on the City of Calgary’s Advisory Committee on Accessibility (ACA) from 2011-2015, serving as the co-chair for two years. Darby also represented the City of Calgary at the International Summit on Accessibility in 2014. From June 2017 to June 2020, Darby was a member of the Premier’s Council on the Status of Persons with Disabilities. Over the last five years, Darby has been honoured with numerous awards and achievements. In 2018 Darby was selected as one of Canada’s top 40 under 40. In February 2020, John Fluevog Shoes released the "Darby" Shoes. They are now available in multiple colours. In 2021 Darby was named one of the Top 25 Women of Influence 2021. Darby continues to break down barriers for persons with disabilities not only professionally but also personally in hopes that one day it truly makes a difference. LPF has allowed Darby to offer her expertise to a wider range of clients. By incorporating universal design features in new builds and conducting accessibility reviews on proposed and existing facilities, Darby’s work continues to make a significant difference for many people living with disabilities and puts her team at the forefront of accessibility consulting. Through this work LPF has successfully contributed to the removal of barriers at the municipal, provincial and national levels, ultimately establishing inclusive environments. In her spare time, Darby can be found at most sporting events, especially Hockey, Tennis and Chuckwagon Racing! She enjoys travelling and exploring new places for accessibility. Darby will always be seen on the sidelines cheering on her friends and family in all their adventures. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Tamara believes "Success is not final...and failure is not fatal". It’s the courage to continue that count. She is the owner of Mirror Image Vacation Rental Services. Born and raised in Kelowna BC in the beautiful Okanagan Valley. And In Kelowna it’s all about tourism. Whether it be world-class wineries, champagne powder at Big White ski resort, or sparkling lakes, she always knew tourism, and hospitality was something she was not only passionate about but was an area she could see herself getting into business. After 15+ years of scraping by as a waitress and bartender and never getting ahead, she applied for a part-time job with Kelowna Resort Accommodations (which is a large-scale property management company in Kelowna). And then started her own business from there. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

With two decades in capital markets, Kola Malcom brings deep financial experience to his chosen entrepreneurial career. Kola is an evidence-based mortgage planner with a relaxed. pragmatic approach focused on customizing mortgages. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Bryan Macaulay is a visual storyteller. Since his father opened Village Studio in 1977, Bryan has been providing timeless photography to Grimsby and the Niagara area. His experiences over the last 30 years in the business have been life-changing. His entrepreneurial resolve, drive, and creativity have allowed him to pivot the business which has kept it healthy. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Naomi Kunert, Founder of the Self Reconnection Method, is an accomplished and renowned transpersonal therapist and spiritual guide with over 25 years of experience in successfully empowering her clients to overcome physical, mental, emotional and spiritual trauma. The Self-Reconnection Method, is an integrative healing system, that activates a person’s inner healing mechanism, allowing for reconnection on all levels of self, enabling people to recover from chronic states of stress, disease & disconnection. Her approach unites practical and proven methods in the field of neuroscience with principles of quantum physics, blending with it the natural laws of healing practiced and preserved by Earth’s oldest ancestral cultures; a complementing synthesis of the ancient and modern integrative ways of healing. Naomi has a practice on Vancouver Island, Canada and facilitates workshops internationally and presents at clinicians’ seminars. She offers on-line or in-person one-to-one sessions and Self Reconnection Method workshops and classes. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

In this video interview, happiness expert Dr. Gillian Mandich discusses the state of happiness in today’s world. She is a scientist on a mission to help people live their happiest life. Mandich is a published researcher; two-time TEDx speaker; the founder of The International Happiness Institute of Health Science Research; and you can often find her in the media on shows such as The Social, Marilyn Denis, Breakfast Television, and The Morning Show. I use the latest evidence-based health information and science to help people live happy, healthy lives. My PhD is from Western University in Health Science, specializing in Health Promotion. I am a top-rated keynote speaker and I appear regularly as the resident Happiness Expert on The Social and Breakfast Television. I’ve also appeared on ABC7 New York, Global TV, CP24, CityLine, City News Toronto, Your Morning, CTV Toronto, Rogers TV, and CTV London. My academic work has been published in The Canadian Journal of Diabetes, The Journal of Sport and Exercise Psychology, The International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, The Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health, The Canadian Journal of Dietetic Practice and Research, and Health Science Inquiry. I’ve presented at academic conferences such as The World Diabetes Congress; International Society of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity; The 2nd, 3rd, and 4th National Obesity Summits; The Canadian Public Health Association; Canadian Diabetes Association; International Congress of Dietetics; and The Public Health in Action Symposium. My work has been published in The Huffington Post, Chatelaine, Oxygen Magazine, Clean Eating Magazine, MindBodyGreen, Inside Fitness, Sweat Equity, and STRONG Fitness Magazine. I work with brands including Reebok, CLIF Bar, and Clean Eating. I’ve been featured on QVC, HSN, Today’s Shopping Choice, Virgin Radio, The Gazette, The Ottawa Business Journal, Alive Magazine, and The London Free Press. I’ve spoken at events including The CanFitPro World Fitness Expo, The Green Living Show, Women In Wellness, The Total Mom Show, The Allied Beauty Association Revel In Beauty Show, The Archangel Show, Girl Power in Play Symposium, Women Who Influence, Health Hustlers, Pint of Science, and the Strong Women Summit. Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Podcast. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 as one of the Top 10 Business Journalists in the World by PR News – the only Canadian to make the list. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024. About Us Canada’s Podcast is the number one podcast in Canada for entrepreneurs and business owners. Established in 2016, the podcast network has interviewed over 600 Canadian entrepreneurs from coast-to-coast. With hosts in each province, entrepreneurs have a local and national format to tell their stories, talk about their journey and provide inspiration for anyone starting their entrepreneurial journey and well- established founders. The commitment to a grass roots approach has built a loyal audience on all our social channels and YouTube – 500,000+ lifetime YouTube views, 200,000 + audio downloads, 35,000 + average monthly social impressions, 10,000 + engaged social followers and 35,000 newsletter subscribers. Canada’s Podcast is proud to provide a local, national and international presence for Canadian entrepreneurs to build their brand and tell their story #business Canada's Number One Podcast for Entrepreneurs #entrepreneurs #entrepreneurship #Happiness #MentalHealth #smallbusiness

In this video interview, Marc Carnes, CEO of Alberta-based radio station CKUA, discusses the financial situation of the station and efforts to raise money to keep it alive. On April 17, Carnes addressed the CKUA community with an update about CKUA’s future. He talks about his recent message, how much money needs to be raised, fundraising efforts, the history of the station, the importance of the station to the music and arts and cultural community, its reach, and the importance of music in society. Here was his full message: I’m CKUA CEO Marc Carnes, and I’m addressing you today because CKUA needs your help. There’s no other way to say it: We must raise $3 million by September 30. Without it, CKUA’s cash reserves will be depleted, and we will be forced to shut down after 96 years of serving Albertan—and honourary Albertans—like you. This news may shock you, but if you’ve read any headlines lately, it’s no secret that the music, arts, and culture sectors have never fully recovered from the pandemic. It’s also no secret that the commercial broadcasting sector continues to struggle. Many of our independent, donor-supported public radio peers in the United States are in the same boat. This is not happening because of a lack of success. CKUA audiences have been growing and diversifying steadily over the past five years. Our fundraising revenues have been steady at a time when many charities and cultural organizations are struggling. Our advertising sales have been steady at a time when traditional media advertising has plummeted in recent years. In an economy where charitable dollars are tight and advertising-based traditional media is struggling, we are bucking the trend. This speaks to the value people place on our service and what it means to them. What’s more, we do all of this without the government footing the bill for us. But CKUA is not immune to the challenges faced by so many. Like many households and businesses, inflationary pressures have been increasingly difficult over the last 18 months. Borrowing rates have doubled. Utility costs have skyrocketed. Capital maintenance of our vast and complex technical systems has become more expensive than ever. This, coupled with ever-changing and new federal regulations, has been a lot for CKUA to absorb in a short time. As the owner of the Alberta Hotel, our broadcast centre, CKUA has also felt the effects of record-high, post-pandemic commercial real estate vacancies in downtown Edmonton. 18 months ago, every square foot of our building was spoken for. Last summer, the building was half empty, and revenues had almost completely disappeared after our main tenant became insolvent. Just 18 months ago, our budgets were balanced. Today, a perfect storm is threatening our future, a mere three and a half years before our centennial. Because of these factors, the sound of Alberta is at risk of going silent. When we saw CKUA’s new reality unfolding, we took immediate action. We cut and deferred as many expenses as possible while maintaining the operations our listeners generously support with charitable donations. We worked with real estate professionals and developed scenarios for how to fill Alberta Hotel with paying tenants, given the current market. We sought to collaborate with the provincial and federal governments for financial help. And we developed a plan to diversify our fundraising revenues through major gift and legacy giving leading up to our centennial in 2027. All of these measures take time. But time is not on our side. As a non-profit, CKUA has always been a lean, mean machine for the size of our 24/7 province-wide operation. That is even more true today. We’re doing more with less, and that’s thanks to our incredible team, whose dedication and persistence in the face of these challenges inspire me every day. What’s more, they are doing amazing, creative work that is being recognized and sought out by more people. They have every reason to be proud. As I am of them. We’ve also found some success in filling our building and are negotiating with several new tenants. But the high interest rate on our loan is still dogging us, and the revenue from these potential new tenants won’t come online for several months. Disappointingly, after a year of conversations, the provincial and federal governments have yet to step up. We continue our conversations with the provincial government, driving home our role in telling a piece of Alberta’s story around the globe. Since our humble beginnings in 1927 as Canada’s first public broadcaster, we have been there for Albertans. Today, we give a province-wide platform to our artists and our storytellers, filling the growing hole left by national media and the loss of local independents. As of yesterday, the federal and provincial government budgets have come and gone, and we have received no indication that financial help is coming. Despite hundreds of millions of dollars in new money for our national public broadcaster and

In this video interview, Don Kottick, President and CEO of Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, discusses a new report released by the company on the luxury real estate market in Canada. Don Kottick Kottick talks about sales activity, prices, inventory and what to expect from the market. PRESS RELEASE 2024 First Quarter Highlights Canada’s luxury real estate market eased into 2024 with modest sales gains and an increase in consumer engagement and pre-transactional activity as listings supply returned, often at prices adjusted to current market conditions. Single family home demand continued to lead the revitalization of luxury sales, reflecting a shift in high-end consumer preferences given the rising carrying costs and changing financial dynamics for luxury condominiums. Consumer sentiment and market dynamics evolved in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) in the first quarter of 2024, as seller and buyer expectations came into better alignment, setting the stage for improved sales activity. Luxury residential sales over $4 million rose 18% year-over-year across the GTA, in a market that remained balanced overall. Despite a discernible improvement in consumer engagement, first-quarter luxury sales over $4 million were down 17% year-over-year in Vancouver, as prospective home buyers and sellers strategically deferred transactional activity to spring. Montreal’s luxury market experienced a stronger than anticipated start to 2024, as residential sales over $1 million increased 53% year-over-year in the first quarter, while sales over $4 million were on par with activity in the first quarter of 2023. Calgary’s luxury market continued to eclipse national trends as positive net interprovincial migration and buoyant consumer sentiment spurred a 63% annual spike in first quarter sales over $1 million, with two transactions over $4 million compared to a quiet first quarter in this market segment in 2023. TORONTO, April 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Canada’s luxury real estate market eased into spring with modest sales gains across key metropolitan cities, as the dynamic between prospective home sellers and buyers improved, and pricing expectations continued to come into alignment. Despite strengthening consumer confidence and an increase in early-stage market engagement in the initial months of 2024, the expectation of additional property listings supply and potential interest rate declines prompted some buyers and sellers to defer transactions into the spring market. As a result, the country’s major metropolitan areas are expected to see a moderate improvement in sales activity across the luxury and conventional markets in the months ahead. According to Sotheby’s International Realty Canada’s Top-Tier Real Estate: Spring 2024 State of Luxury Report, consumer dynamics in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) evolved in the first quarter of 2024, setting the stage for measured sales gains and a balanced market this spring. As the price expectations of home sellers and prospective buyers came into better alignment, both pre-transactional and sales activity increased across the region’s luxury market. As a result, residential real estate sales over $4 million (condominiums, attached and single family homes) between January 1 – March 31 climbed 18% year-over-year from the first quarter of 2023. In these preliminary months of the year, there were no property sales over $10 million recorded on Multiple Listings Service (MLS), in contrast to the single property sold in the same period of 2024. Overall GTA residential sales over $1 million rose 11% year-over-year. Vancouver’s luxury residential real estate market experienced a notable increase in pre-transactional activity in the first quarter of 2024, as consumer and real estate industry confidence continued to strengthen within a market that remained in balance. However, a significant cohort of prospective purchasers continued to await a wider selection of property listings inventory in the spring market to follow. As a result, residential sales over $4 million were down 17% year-over-year in the first quarter of 2024, with none of these recorded over $10 million on MLS compared to four transactions in the first quarter of 2023. Overall, $1 million-plus residential sales were largely on par with previous year’s levels, with a marginal 1% year-over-year shortfall. Luxury sales activity in Montreal reflected a stronger-than-anticipated start to 2024, as residential sales over $1 million between January 1– March 31 increased 53% year-over-year within a market that maintained balanced conditions overall. Residential real estate sales over $4 million were on par with first-quarter 2023 levels at eight units sold. Record in-migration, a bold economy and soaring end-consumer and investor confidence in housing continued to strengthen Calgary’s luxury real estate market performance in the first quarter of 2024. Between January 1– March 31, residential sales over $1 million surged 63% year-ove

In this video interview, Donovan Bailey, Olympic gold medal sprinter, discusses his career, his thoughts about success and his message to young athletes. Bailey is in Calgary speaking Tuesday April 30 at the annual Champion Chats fundraiser for Classroom Champions. He’s also guest speaker Thursday May 30 at the Calgary Italian Sportsmen’s Dinner. HERE’S THE PUBLICIST MATERIAL FOR HIS BOOK A memoir of Olympic glory, the value of mentorship and the courage to champion your own excellence, from the long-reigning world’s fastest man, Canadian sprinting legend Donovan Bailey. From the lush fields of his boyhood in Jamaica, to the basketball courts of Oakville, where he came of age in one of Canada’s most thriving cultural mosaics, to his sprint toward double Olympic gold for Canada in Atlanta in 1996, Donovan Bailey got a long way on natural talent. But he also learned that in the bureaucratic world of Canadian sports, an athlete who didn’t come up in the system needed to take charge of his fate if he was going to become the world’s best. As he ascended from outsider to dominant athlete, others didn’t always understand the rigour at work behind Bailey’s confident demeanor. He’d learned from watching Muhammad Ali that a champion needed to act like a champion. But media grew fixated on the sprinter’s immodesty, the likes of which they never saw from Canadian athletes, especially track athletes in the wake of the Ben Johnson doping scandal at Seoul in 1988. Bailey was having none of it, and when he called out Canada’s subtle racism and contradicted the prevailing idea most Canadians had of their country, he left in his wake a media uproar and cracked wide open the nation’s moral complacency. In addition to his unforgettable 100-metre and 4×100 relay gold-medal sprints in Atlanta, Bailey’s track career was a litany of records and rare accomplishments, including his audacious 1997 race in Toronto’s SkyDome against American 200-metre Olympic champion Michael Johnson to determine who was really the world’s fastest man. There was no disputing the result. Bailey had been coached in success before he was seriously coached in athletics. Following the lead of his father, a machinist-turned-real estate investor, Bailey became a millionaire by the age of 21, an experience he continues to draw on as an entrepreneur and philanthropist. Frank about his dominance on the track and unapologetic for expecting as much of those around him as he expects of himself, Undisputed is an athlete’s story that refuses to settle for second best. Donovan Bailey PRESS RELEASE Calgary, AB – The annual Champion Chats fundraiser luncheon held April 30, 2024 at Hyatt Regency Calgary is now sold out. At over 55 tables of guests, this year’s Champion Chats will be the biggest ever and brings together over 450 of Calgary business leaders, Olympians and Paralympians, and community leaders to support the work of Classroom Champions, a non-profit dedicated to providing specialized programming for high-needs schools across Western Canada – and across North America – by partnering students and classrooms with athlete mentors. “This year’s event is the biggest one yet with dozens of CEOs joining us for this incredible afternoon meant to educate and inspire us while providing needed funds for programs close to home,” said Steve Mesler, President and CEO of Classroom Champions. “It’s clear that there is a lot of excitement about hearing from our stellar line-up of athletes who will speak about their own experiences achieving personal excellence.” The 2024 event panel includes: Donovan Bailey: Widely regarded as one of the greatest professional athletes of all time, Bailey won a gold medal for Canada in the men’s 100m at the 1996 Olympic Summer Games and set a world record with a time of 9.84 seconds. He works to uplift organizations that aspire to achieve greatness. In October 2023, he released his memoir, “Undisputed”. Luke Willson: As a Canadian former professional football player, Luke played tight end in the National Football League (NFL) and is one of the few Canadian athletes ever to win a Super Bowl. He spent his first five NFL seasons with the Seattle Seahawks where he was a fan favourite, winning Super Bowl XLVIII with the team. He retired from the NFL in 2021 and is an NFL analyst on TSN. Waneek Horn-Miller: As one of Canada’s few Indigenous Olympians, Waneek has used her unique experiences in life and sport combined with a passion for her culture to influence Indigenous and non-Indigenous leadership in sport and wellness. A Mohawk from the Kahnawake Mohawk Territory near Montreal, Waneek was behind the lines during the Oka crisis in 1990 when a Canadian soldier’s bayonet stabbed her. It was a near-death experience that marked a turning point in her life. Waneek is one of North America’s most inspiring female Indigenous speakers. Long-time panel moderator for Champion Chats, Tara Slone is back to host the panel and will lead the conversation about wha

Today, our guest is Trevor Van Heemert. After briefly attempting employment in his early 20s, Trevor resigned with no plan and bought a $150 bike trailer for scooping up merch from street-side free piles for consignment. That fateful purchase led to the offer to take over a struggling bicycle-based compost pickup operation in Victoria called Pedal to Petal. He brought it from decrepitude into a brief golden age, before the City brought its own taxpayer-funded compost trucks in to crush all the green waste operators out of business. Undiscouraged, Trevor launched his bucket website FiveGallonIdeas.com to showcase dozens of repurpose projects for the countless buckets in his now useless business inventory. Having established a pattern of redeeming struggling enterprises, Trevor was presented with an opportunity to buy an arcade manufacturer in Vancouver. After a grueling negotiation process, he and his business partner took possession of the 13-year-old salvage operation in April 2024. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Kim Tabac is a dynamic business executive with over 25 years of experience designing and executing people & culture strategies for leading organizations across various industries. Best known for building high-performing teams, designing game-changing employee engagement strategies, developing differentiated and irresistible employee experiences, delivering highly valued health & wellness programs, and driving the adoption of innovation and technology to disrupt traditional HR practices. This interview helps us understand the migration from corporate to entrepreneurial drive... it's quite refreshing. In Kim's words, "I think there is something that that is unique about somebody who is an entrepreneur. And those are people who aren't just gonna settle for what's available. They either have an idea or they have a solution. And they wanna make an impact. They wanna make a change. And they know that they can make that change. They can leave that change. It takes a whole bunch of confidence, obviously a lot of support, and a lot of resilience." Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Leor Rotchild is an author, speaker, and consultant with 20 years of sustainable business experience. Leor is the Senior Director at Upswing Solutions, a B Corp-certified boutique consulting firm where he supports government and private sector clients to decarbonize their supply chains, address human rights risks, and deeply integrate purpose and sustainability into their core strategies. Leor's background includes leading a national association called Canadian Business for Social Responsibility and co-founder of a sustainable events company called Do It Green. In his new book, entitled How We Gather Matters, Leor makes the case for better utilizing major events as a powerful platform for societal change and lays out a blueprint for a more purposeful, inclusive and sustainable approach to bringing people together. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Craig Perlmutter is the president of Arcadia Earth Toronto. His detail-oriented, hands-on leadership merged with enthusiasm toward the outdoors, entertainment, hospitality, education and outstanding customer service provides the exhibit’s first Canadian location with a perfect partner. Arcadia Earth Toronto combines Perlmutter's entrepreneurial passions and experiences into one remarkable venture. After graduating from the University of Pennsylvania as an Economics major, Perlmutter spent seven years in the promotions and marketing industry before owning and operating one of Canada’s top overnight summer camps in Algonquin Provincial Park for two decades. A visit to Arcadia Earth New York in 2020 led him to this incredible opportunity. Perlmutter's extensive outreach within the local community through business and volunteer positions, with his experience in promotions, marketing and events brings valuable knowledge to further our mission of growing a community with more environmentally conscious and sustainability-thinking citizens. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

In this video interview, Kelley Keehn, founder of Money Wise Workplaces, discusses why it’s important to spring clean your finances. Keehn talks about what people need to toss, what they need to keep and what they need to get as well as some strategies for people feeling the pain of rising costs these days. Keehn is a founder, author, speaker, and media personality with over 25 years of experience in personal finance education. She’s passionate about transforming financial stress into workplace success, helping individuals and organizations thrive. As the founder of Money Wise Workplaces, her team has created a comprehensive Canadian platform and live events that ease financial stress, boost loyalty and productivity, and support employees’ financial well-being. Its platform features 100+ video lessons, webinars, and financial experts, including her, who deliver engaging and practical advice on topics such as budgeting, saving, investing, debt, retirement, and more. She’s also a best-selling author of several books, including Talk Money to Me, Rich Girl, Broke Girl, and The Woman’s Guide to Money, which have received international recognition and praise. Keehn is a renowned speaker who has delivered keynote presentations and workshops to audiences across Canada and the world. She’s a media personality who has appeared on various TV and radio shows, podcasts, and magazines, sharing her insights and tips on financial literacy and empowerment. Keehn’s mission is to redefine workplace financial wellness, and to help employers and employees create a culture of financial confidence and abundance. Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Podcast. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 as one of the Top 10 Business Journalists in the World by PR News – the only Canadian to make the list. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024. About Us Canada’s Podcast is the number one podcast in Canada for entrepreneurs and business owners. Established in 2016, the podcast network has interviewed over 600 Canadian entrepreneurs from coast-to-coast. With hosts in each province, entrepreneurs have a local and national format to tell their stories, talk about their journey and provide inspiration for anyone starting their entrepreneurial journey and well- established founders. The commitment to a grass roots approach has built a loyal audience on all our social channels and YouTube – 500,000+ lifetime YouTube views, 200,000 + audio downloads, 35,000 + average monthly social impressions, 10,000 + engaged social followers and 35,000 newsletter subscribers. Canada’s Podcast is proud to provide a local, national and international presence for Canadian entrepreneurs to build their brand and tell their story. businessCanada's Number One Podcast for Entrepreneurs #entrepreneurs #entrepreneurship #Finances #Money #smallbusiness

Ashley Ehmann is the Co-Founder of TWIGZ Pretzels. Formally trained as a teacher, she enjoys the daily unique challenges that entrepreneurship brings. Ashley is passionate about building community, and is excited about using TWIGZ to empower others, and grow the brand into a household name across Canada. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

Meet Matt Dee, an unconventional serial entrepreneur propelled by innovation with a self-taught mastery in sales, marketing, and design. He's left an indelible mark, notably shaping the credit card payment system in the early 2000's that we still use today, thriving in diverse ventures from early car sales from his parents driveway to professional music. Currently, he's on the verge of launching a pioneering boat rental business alongside an adult card game concept, fueled by renewed determination. Despite recent setbacks, he finds solace in nature and draws strength from his close-knit circle. Matt Dee embodies resilience, showcasing the transformative power of passion and perseverance in the entrepreneurial journey. His story is a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that setbacks are merely stepping stones on the path to success, and true innovation springs from unwavering dedication and an unyielding spirit. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

In this video interview, Samantha Villiard, Regional Vice President, RE/MAX Canada, discusses the real estate company’s latest luxury home market report. Samantha Villiard FULL PRESS RELEASE TORONTO, April 2, 2024 /CNW/ — With the end of quantitative tightening in sight, luxury home-buying activity in most markets across the country are slowly shifting into high gear as buyers reap the benefits of softer housing values, according to a report released today by RE/MAX Canada. RE/MAX Canada’s 2024 Spotlight on Luxury Report examined luxury home-buying activity in 10 markets across the country in the first two months of the year and found that, despite a disconnect between buyers looking for deals and sellers’ price expectations, almost all regions reported a strong start to the year. Ninety per cent of markets experienced an increase in high-end sales, with more than two-thirds recording double-digit growth. Saskatoon led the country in terms of percentage increases, with a 57-per-cent uptick in luxury home sales, followed by Montreal at almost 56 per cent and Calgary at 52 per cent. Edmonton posted a 32-per-cent increase in luxury sales year-over-year, while Winnipeg, Halifax, Toronto and London reported increases of 19.4 per cent, 16.7 per cent, 14.4 per cent, and 9.4 per cent respectively. Only Ottawa saw a decline compared to year-ago levels, with sales down nearly eight per cent. “While figures remain off peak levels reported during Covid, the upswing in luxury sales signal a return to overall health in the country’s major centres,” according to RE/MAX Canada President Christopher Alexander. “The ripple effect is already underway, with stronger home-buying activity at lower price points pushing sales into the upper end. In some cities where inventory levels are particularly challenging at the lower end, multiple offers have returned with a vengeance. While that isn’t the case at the top end, pent-up demand does exist, and activity is gaining momentum.” Lower overall values, strong equity gains and downward trending interest rates are supporting demand for luxury product including freehold and condominium properties in markets across the country. While a disconnect is somewhat hampering activity in larger markets, with sellers holding out for Covid-era values and buyers seeking bargains, those serious about making moves are finding common ground. An ample supply of product exists in most markets, although some neighbourhoods are experiencing exceptionally low inventory levels at sought-after price points. An influx of fresh, new properties in the spring will renew buyer interest and activity, but chronic supply issues will likely persist at the entry level to luxury. “Equity continues to play a significant role in the marketplace, driving demand at the top end of the market,” explains Alexander. “Although overall gains have been elusive in recent years, a good percentage of buyers who purchased in 2018 and 2019 are well positioned to make their next moves. For example, in the Greater Toronto market, buyers who purchased homes at an average price in 2018 saw equity rise by almost 43 per cent by the end of 2023 ($787,842/$1,126,591). These buyers are coming to the table with a larger downstroke and reduced risk from a lending perspective.” Luxury home-buying activity is also undergoing change as a younger demographic moves into the upper end of the market. Demand is strongest for newer, well-appointed homes in traditional hot pockets. Turnkey properties are most coveted, although there are some buyers that are willing to renovate. The desire for more space and less congestion is once again an emerging trend, as acreage properties boasting large homes in suburban-rural or rural areas experience an upswing in popularity in London, Ottawa, Edmonton and Saskatoon. Building activity is also making a comeback, with new construction and infill on the rise in half of all markets examined. Some luxury buyers looking to expand their purchasing power are moving over into markets such as London (drawing buyers from the Greater Toronto Area), Halifax, Calgary, Edmonton and Saskatoon (drawing buyers from Ontario and British Columbia). However, activity among foreign buyers has fallen dramatically since the introduction of the Foreign Buyer Ban by the Federal Government in January 2023, which it extended through to early 2027. The impact has been palpable in the uber-luxe segment of major markets, such as Metro Vancouver and Toronto, as well as the condominium market in the City of Montreal. “While the idea of a Foreign Buyer Ban sounds good in principle, it makes less sense in practice,” says Alexander. “The ban was originally intended to make a greater number of properties available to Canadians and reduce upward pressure on housing values. The Bank of Canada’s 10 rate hikes were all that was needed to achieve that objective, all the while supply remains at historical lows.” Condominiums have been a popular option this y

Mark Freeland is the Founder and Distiller of Two Rivers Distillery. He graduated from the class of '99 from the University of Saskatchewan with a double major in History and Archaeology. Freeland spent 18 years in upper management/ executive positions in the fast-paced Calgary residential construction industry. He also has experienced 38 years as a part-time professional musician with the pinnacle of achievement being as a member of the Canadian recording act Zuckerbaby. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter

In today’s evolving technological landscape, businesses must adapt swiftly to harness new opportunities and remain relevant. In a special report, Mastercard explores tech trends poised to reshape commerce over the next three to five years. Darrell MacMullin Advances in three areas — artificial intelligence, computational power and data technology — are converging to propel these trends forward. As they spur innovation, technology will become more intuitive, interactive, immersive and embedded in our daily lives — with significant implications for finance, retail and other sectors. In this video interview, Darrell MacMullin, Senior Vice President, Product and Platform, for Mastercard, discusses the key findings from the report. The full report can be found here. Mario Toneguzzi Mario Toneguzzi is Managing Editor of Canada’s Podcast. He has more than 40 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist, and editor. He was named in 2021 as one of the Top 10 Business Journalists in the World by PR News – the only Canadian to make the list. He was also named by RETHINK to its global list of Top Retail Experts 2024. About Us Canada’s Podcast is the number one podcast in Canada for entrepreneurs and business owners. Established in 2016, the podcast network has interviewed over 600 Canadian entrepreneurs from coast-to-coast. With hosts in each province, entrepreneurs have a local and national format to tell their stories, talk about their journey and provide inspiration for anyone starting their entrepreneurial journey and well- established founders. The commitment to a grass roots approach has built a loyal audience on all our social channels and YouTube – 500,000+ lifetime YouTube views, 200,000 + audio downloads, 35,000 + average monthly social impressions, 10,000 + engaged social followers and 35,000 newsletter subscribers. Canada’s Podcast is proud to provide a local, national and international presence for Canadian entrepreneurs to build their brand and tell their story. #business #Canada's Number One Podcast for Entrepreneurs #entrepreneurs #entrepreneurship #innovation #smallbusiness #tech #technology

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Mick Lautt is an established entrepreneur, currently serving as the co-founder and CEO of SciMar Ltd. As CEO, Mick leads a family-driven business and a team of scientists, business development professionals, and investment relations specialists in developing and unveiling a new scientific approach for the prevention, detection, and treatment of type 2 diabetes. Under Mick’s leadership, SciMar has attracted over 100 investors and developed SciMar NuPa Test, a proprietary diagnostic test meal now in clinical trials. Entrepreneurs are the backbone of Canada’s economy. To support Canada’s businesses, subscribe to our YouTube channel and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and Twitter. Want to stay up-to-date on the latest #entrepreneur podcasts and news? Subscribe to our bi-weekly newsletter