Chatter that Matters

Is Destiny a matter of choice or chance? Mark Henick has his first mental health crisis in Grade 6 and by Grade 8 he tried suicide for the first time. By age 15 Mark's life was like a Yo-Yo bouncing out of psychiatric wards, with treatment often involving a cocktail of drugs. At Age 15 Mark's mental state was at a point where he felt he had only one choice and that was his Life or Death. He chose death and ended up on the wrong side of an overpass, perched on a few inches of concrete, looking down a tunnel that he hoped would end his pain. That night, by chance and he ended up one night feeling his only thing he had a choice in. Life and death. He chose death and found himself standing on the wrong side of an overpass to end his life. By chance, two people were there. One yelled 'JUMP YOU COWARD' and the other, a man in a light brown jacket, saved his life. That experience showed Mark he did have a choice. To live his life like the man who saved him versus the many. that baited him. Fast forward to today, and Mark is combining his personal experiences with his mental health, combined with his education and passion to help others and to be one of Canada's leading advocates on mental health. Mark's TED talk on his story is one of the most popular of all time. Mark Henick Links Web Site - https://markhenick.com Linked In - https://markhenick.com/socallednormal/?share=linkedin Instagram. https://www.instagram.com/markhenick/ Ted Talk - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1QoyTmeAYw Twitter - https://twitter.com/markhenick Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/markhenick Podcast - https://markhenick.com/socallednormal/ Tony Chapman's Links Chatter that Matters - https://chatterthatmatters.ca Twitter - @TonyChapman - https://twitter.com/tonychapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chatterthatmatters/ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcGvzmw9MFkUcGylrFA2xCQ

In LIFE MATTERS, Tony Chapman counters the firehose of negativity that is impacting our lives and careers, with positive stories of ordinary people, who despite their circumstances do extraordinary things. In doing so we learn life lessons that we can apply. What would you do if you were Orlando Bowen? Orlando was a professional CFL football player whose career, and almost life ended by being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Orlando was given a severe beating at the hands of bad cops. Instead of seeing himself as the victim, or becoming obsessed with revenge and redemption, Orlando used his experience to further his quest to empower the youth and to bridge the divides that divide society. Show Notes: In this podcast, we first cover the backstory of Orlando Bowen, and how his life had everything he desired. A wife, child and one on the way, a contract extension with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, and a life where his spare time was spent doing community service. All of this changed, and instantly when Orlando Bowen was severely beaten by two corrupt police officers. What Orlando does after his horrific experience is remarkable. This podcast Orlando Bowen - Gamechanger will leave you inspired and with valuable lessons in life. Gopal Bansal from RBC joins me at the end of the program to offer his ideas on how we can open our minds to more diversity and inclusion. Orlando Bowan Web http://www.orlandobowen.com YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGVPh0HYsgQcMm0QdpuZ9ng Twitter: https://twitter.com/orlandobowen Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/in/orlandobowen/ Tony Chapman Twitter - @TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chatterthatmatters/ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcGvzmw9MFkUcGylrFA2xCQ

Entrepreneurs are optimists by nature. They find opportunities everywhere and want to do it all. But even the most driven entrepreneurs need to have the discipline to prioritize and focus on what will drive their business forward. Fatima Zaidi has always been one to watch. She was born in Oman, with all the cultural norms and expectations of a Middle Eastern woman. Yet, regardless of circumstance, she took the plunge to build her own career and became the CEO and co-founder of Quill Inc., an imaginative podcast agency that gives people a credible and compelling voice. They even produced this episode of Chatter that Matters Presented by RBC. Fatima has many passions. She is an advocate for women in tech, a champion to bring more diversity into the workplace, a keynote speaker, and thought leader. But, can she do it all? Elizabeth Hughes, a venture and technology specialist at RBC offers her thoughts on capitalization. Entrepreneurial legend, Bruce Croxon, shares some powerful insights on entrepreneurship before shining his insight on Fatima and the potential of Quill. And for the first time in the series, Tony Chapman moves beyond parting thoughts and offers Fatima his own advice. Show Notes: 1:15 - Getting to know Fatima & Quill Learn where Fatima grew up, when she came to Canada, how she started her career in sales, and the origin story of Quill. 10.42 - Interview with Elizabeth Hughes from RBC's technology and venture practice Elizabeth discusses her advice for Fatima as she continues to grow Quill from a capital markets perspective. Specifically, she touches on podcasting's potential as a marketing medium and discusses her thoughts on Fatima's ability to bootstrap Quill through COVID. 13.38 - Interview with Bruce Croxon from Round13 Bruce chats with Tony about his entrepreneurial advice and comments on Fatima's business model, mentioning his kudos for creating a service based arm of the business that will fund Quill's technology products. 19.09 - Tony's message to Fatima For the first time, Tony gives his advice to Fatima as she continues to run Quill through the pandemic. 1) Focus on what matters, 2) clients are drawn to energy but buy on process, and 3) find the areas where you are intellectually stimulated and emotionally rewarded. This episode is brought to you by RBC. To support this show and get specialized support for your business, visit: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/advice/industry-expertise.html You can also check out RBC's Small Business Navigator here: www.rbc.com/smallbusinessnavigator Learn more about Fatima, Bruce, and Elizabeth below: Fatima, Zaidi, Co-founder and CEO of Quill: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fatima-zaidi-6a6b844b/ Quill Inc: quillit.io Bruce Croxon, Managing Partner, Round 13 Capital: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brucecroxon/ Elizabeth Hughes, Commercial Account Manager, RBC: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethallenhughes/ Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://chatterthatmatters.ca Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chatterthatmatters/ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcGvzmw9MFkUcGylrFA2xCQ

Paul Rivett-Carnac's parents met on a herbalist walk on Vancouver Island in the late 1970s. That walk led them to pursue a lifetime passion for healing rooted in nature. Together they moved to Ontario and St Francis Herb Farm was born. What began as a business selling herbs and tinctures to Naturopaths and Health Food Stores has grown into a family-owned business that is truly a farm, to having its own branded products on shelf and online. Today St Francis Herb Farm is now run and soon to be entirely owned by their son Paul, and his wife, Caitlin. Paul, who grew up playing on the farm, learning to drive tractors at age 12, now has ambitions to take this Canadian family business global, while providing purposeful jobs to Barry's Bay and a future for their children. To do so, Paul and Caitlin are investing in new infrastructure, exploring new channels to market, while still maintaining the roots of their business - certified organic and being in a constant conversation with nature. Attracting talent, customers, and capital is vital. Angela Donnelly, the founder of Corethentic, shares her thoughts on how Paul can grow his culture and his team. Es Rottschafer, a brilliant strategist and founder of Fieldmarshal, provides her insights and watch-outs for building brands in the crowded wellness space. Andrew Staniforth, Vice President CFS, from RBC who supports the agriculture segment, advises on how St Francis Herb Farm can capitalize on their growth. Presented by RBC. Deep Roots (01:17) Paul's parents started farming herbs and experimenting with herbal remedies while living on Vancouver Island, eventually moving to Ontario to start St Francis Farms when he was 6 years old. The herb business takes hold and they soon begin distributing herbs to health food stores across Canada. Making their own herbal-based products is the next evolution. Family business in transition (05:45) Paul and his wife Caitlin are on the process of taking the business over from Paul's parents, all the while ensuring they keeping their focus on quality and looking for opportunities to expand. Plans are afoot to expand their processing facility and increase their direct to consumer distribution. Growing up and growing out (03:42) As the business grows, so does the complexity and becoming a global leader will not be easy. Scaling the business, while maintaining its essence and continuing to focus on quality will be key. Paul needs to evolve his leadership and learn to trust more and continue to surround himself with great people. Advice for Paul (10:28) Angela Donnelly, Founder of Corethentic, highlight to Paul that trust is a critical capability for a leader, requiring a preparedness to be able to suspend your need to control an outcome. Es Rottschafer, Co-founder & Chief Strategy Officer, Fieldmarshal, suggests taking the time to understand the fundamentals of who you want to sell to and the values and perspectives they have around health. Andrew Staniforth, Vice President CFS, RBC acknowledges trade financing will be key to Paul's desires for global expansion. My closing thoughts (24:20) Connected to family, across generations, the community and nature will continue to be the foundation to Pauls' success. Paul's higher ambition is not his global ambitions but rather using nature to heal us all. Your health means the world to Paul! Links and References Paul Rivett-Carnac, President and CEO at St. Francis Herb Farm LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-rivett-carnac-1294b677/ Website - https://stfrancisherbfarm.com Es Rottschafer, Co-founder & Chief Strategy Officer, Fieldmarshal LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/esmerottschafer/ Angela Donnelly, Founder, Corethentic LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/angela-donnelly-corethentic/ Andrew Staniforth, Vice President CFS, RBC LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-staniforth-3748a362/ RBC Business page – https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/index.htm RBC Financial Relief page - https://www.rbc.com/covid-19/business.html RBC Agriculture Banking and Financial Solutions- rbc.com/agriculture RBC Small Business Navigator - www.rbc.com/smallbusinessnavigator Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://chatterthatmatters.ca Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chatterthatmatters/ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcGvzmw9MFkUcGylrFA2xCQ

If you believe that Canada can't compete in the design and creation of wonderful garments, then I encourage you to listen to this episode. And if you ever question the value of immigration, then I suggest you listen to it twice. For everyone else, get ready for some goosebumps, and some incredible advice from one of the worlds thought leaders on fashion, Jeanne Beker, as well as David Kincaid, a business and branding strategist who has guided the positioning of some of the world's top companies and Lori Darlington from RBC. Kathy Cheng emigrated from Hong Kong to Canada in the 1970s with her parents. To make ends meet, her Dad worked three jobs, sewing in a factory, delivering pizza at night, and waiting on tables, and her Mom wasn't far behind. There was no money for child care. Kathy was a latch-key kid who grew up watching her parents work. Over time Kathy's father and two siblings saved enough to start their own sewing shop, and within a decade, they employed 500 Canadians. Fast-forward to today, and Kathy is now the CEO, her Dad is her partner and they still sew everything in Canada. Is it easy? No, but it's never been easy for Kathy and her family. Is it possible to defy the odds and keep Canadians employed in designing and manufacturing in the garment trade? Absolutely if Canadians support theirs and others, Canadian Dreams. Presented by RBC. Coming to Canada (01:03) Having emigrated from China at the age of 4 with her parents, Kathy, learnt to be independent and resourceful, in a new country, learning a new language. After working multiple jobs Kathy's parents decide to open up their own business with 10 sewing machines and 5 staff. It's a small start but they grow quickly. From boom to almost bust (04:13) Their business grows to over 500 people, manufacturing for some of Canada's most iconic brands as well as expanding into the US. When China joined the World Trade Organization in 2001, competition increased putting pressure on their business and after the 2008 crash, things got worse. However, to her surprise, Kathy's father asks her to be his business partner. The revival (07:22) Together, they restructure the business around 40 people, focus on quality versus fast fashion and leverage the Made in Canada "label". The strategy pays off and the business flourishes once again, now they have their own brand, Redwood Classics. As the business continues to grow what should focus on? Our experts step in. Sound advice (11:15) Lori Darlington, VP, Small Business & Strategic Partnerships, RBC, compliments Kathy's focus and commitment to "Made in Canada" - it's a significant differentiator. David Kincaid, Founder & Managing Partner, Level5 Strategy, challenges Kathy to step up to that next level and declare her vision and answer that question: What business do I want my business to be? Jeanne Beker, Style Editor at TSC & Creative Director gives Kathy a big idea: team up with a local fashion school and invite students to design a garment, injection a little edge into the design. My closing thoughts (29:07) There is so much more inside of Kathy Cheng - that's her North Star. " …stop focusing on what you make and instead focus on the moments that fashion will be." Own the moment, as it's not about what you sell but instead, the feeling people experience when they wear your garmets, that's your quest. Links & References Kathy Cheng, President & Founder, Redwood Classics Apparel LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-cheng-2510a815/ Website - https://redwoodclassics.net Jeanne Beker, Style Editor at TSC , Author, Keynote Speaker, Host, Freelance Journalist, Creative Director LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanne-beker-109a501b/ David Kincaid, Founder & Managing Partner, Level5 Strategy LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-kincaid-125b851/ Lori Darlington, VP, Small Business & Strategic Partnerships, RBC LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-darlington/ RBC Business page – https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/index.htm RBC Financial Relief page - https://www.rbc.com/covid-19/business.html Support local businesses - https://www.rbcrewards.com/campaign/pointsforcanada RBC Small Business Navigator - www.rbc.com/smallbusinessnavigator Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://chatterthatmatters.ca Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chatterthatmatters/ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcGvzmw9MFkUcGylrFA2xCQ

Electrify your day by listening to the story of Connie Stacey who calls herself a Mad Scientist and for a good reason. Connie is an inventor with a brain, burning to solve some of the world's most pressing problems. In this episode, we look at her Grengine, a solar-powered generator that addresses energy poverty. One-seventh of the world lives without power, and cooks and heats with biomass fuels, which are horrible for their health and the planet. This episode is a powerful and telling tale of the challenges entrepreneurs face when marketing and selling their Canadian technology across the world, combined with Connie's charm and self-deprecating humour. To help Connie with her global quest, we have Mairead Lavery, Export Development Canada's passionate CEO. Also, Dan Sorotschynski, one of Canada's leading global marketers, shares his experiences on how to go global. Sid Paquette, who leads the Technology and Innovation practice for RBC offer his thoughts on how to think and be big. Presented by, RBC. Get ready to listen, laugh and learn with insights for all. A walk in the neighbourhood sparks an idea (00:46) Connie takes her twin boys for a stroll around the neighbourhood. Spotting an old and noising diesel generator she beings to wonder if there is a better solution. After chatting to friends about using batteries instead, there is still a problem - how does one recharge it? Connie's has an idea. What if you could swap batteries like Lego blocks…her journey to create Grengine begins From dreams to reality (04:13) Connie sees the challenge of power supply on a global scale, she wants to solve every poverty globally. Connie has dreamt big, but can she make her dreams a reality? With the support of her wife, she goes all in to create a battery system that doesn't need electricians or technicians. Underpinned by a triple bottom line, people plant, profit, she perseveres and builds Grengine. After winning a US Defense competition, her dreams become reality. Growing up (10:21) With support from Export Development Canada (EDC) and Alberta Innovates, Connie's business grows up and out but with growth, comes complexity. Connie wants to own 100% of her business but needs advice on how she can finance her growth without giving her business away. Going global and positioning her brand amongst many competitors is key for her continued success. Luckily, help is on the way. Advice to match Connies ambitions (13:48) Sid Paquette, Head, Venture Capital and Innovation, RBC - in order to grow and go global, Connie may have to reconsider her stance on 100% ownership. Her ambitions require specialized talent, and the level of talent acquired by offering equity. Dan Sorotschynski, Brand Marketing Executive, suggested Connie establish a clearer value proposition and continue to sustain the people component that is behind her brand. Mairead Lavery, President & CEO, Export Development Canada, reminds Connie not to forget her ambition and to surround her self with advisors to assist her as she grows. Here's to Connie (28:19) I would love Connie to follow in the footstep of other great Canadian companies, like Blackberry and Nortel and Bombardier and conquer the world. It is not an easy path you have chosen, but it yours. You have turned your dreams into reality and with your passion and the mind of a mad scientist, I eagerly look forward to following your journey as a passionate Canadian entrepreneur. Here's to Connie. Links and References Connie Stacey, Owner, Growing Greener Innovations LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/connie-stacey-a95973a1/ Website - https://grengine.com Mairead Lavery, President & CEO, Export Development Canada LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/maireadlavery/ Website - https://www.edc.ca Dan Sorotschynski, Brand Marketing Executive LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dsorotschynski/ Sid Paquette, Head, Venture Capital and Innovation, RBC LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sidpaquette/ RBC Business page – https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/index.html RBC Financial Relief page - https://www.rbc.com/covid-19/business.html Canada United - https://www.gocanadaunited.ca/ RBC Small Business Navigator - www.rbc.com/smallbusinessnavigator Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://chatterthatmatters.ca Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chatterthatmatters/ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcGvzmw9MFkUcGylrFA2xCQ

Patrice Mousseau, First Nations, single Mom, watching her eight-month-old daughter scratch her arms and legs until they were bloody. The only prescription the Doctor offered to help with her daughter's eczema was a steroid cream, something Patrice didn't want to do. So Patrice researched and identified five natural and organic ingredients that could help. Her research proved right and within two days her daughter was cured and as it turns out she wasn't the only beneficiary. Word of mouth, then a farmers market and fast forward to today and 800 stores sell Satya Organic Skin Cream. Patrice is just getting started. 20% of children suffer from eczema, and the numbers from adults aren't far beyond. How big can Patrice's business get? She is already doing deals in Hong Kong and the USA. Can Patrice manage her growth? To help answer that question three experts weigh in. Vicki Saunders, the founder of SheEO who is one of the most impressive individuals I have ever chatted with. When you learn about their approach to empowering women and capitalism you will have renewed faith in #radicalgenerosity and collective wisdom. Vicki offers so much in terms of what it takes to build a business. From RBC we have Devinder Gill who is swept up in Patrice's story, but also offers some sage advice on how to scale. Corby Fine, one of our thought leaders from Season One returns and puts his big digital brain to work on her business. He gets straight to the point to point Patrice in the right direction. Every small business owner, aspiring #entrepreneur, anyone dealing with the confines of a gig economy, or wanting to dream and do will benefit from this episode. A Mom doing what she can to keep her daughter from suffering. From farmer markets to800 retailers to knocking at the door of global markets. This is a true and telling tale of against all odds, but beating those odds with institution, insights, and the incredible SheEO platform to stand on. Chatter that Mattes is presented by RBC. A crockpot solution (01:10) Patrice's daughter, only 8 months old developed eczema. With no alternative treatments, except steroid cream, Patrice seeks for an alternative. Researching both traditional and academic sources, she decides to make her own treatment…in her crockpot! It worked. Patrice was onto something. Community matters (02:32) Growing up in a small town in Northwest Ontario, and being part of the Anishinaabe Nation, provided Patrice with a strong sense of community. This held her in good stead as she battled and overcame alcoholism, eventually finding her feet to establishing herself as a successful broadcast journalist at CBC and APTN However, Patrice it not fulfilled and moves on. From local to global (06:42) Making her first sale at a local farmers market, Patrice is ecstatic and gets her product certified organic and approved by Health Canada. Satya is launched. Getting her product onto the shelf was her next step. Starting with a "no" at the first local store she approached, Patrice's' eczema product is now in over 800 stores and has a partnership in Hong Kong. Satya's growth has relied mostly on word-of-mouth but it's now time to step this up a level or two. Patrice looks to our three experts for their advice. Advice to grow (10:06) Corby Fine, VP Digital at goeasy - Patrice needs to "dial-up" her communication on why the product matters, why her product is the best for the consumer. It's a great product, make sure your communications bring this the fore. Devinder Gill, Regional VP, RBC Business Financial Services - sometimes you have to look back to go forwards. Getting clarity on Patrice's global ambitions would be a great place to start. Vicki Saunders, CEO of SheEO - don't focus on too many things at once; focus on what's directly in front of you and remember to breathe. My closing thoughts - Patrice's North Star (25:40) In spite of her success, Patrice has never lost her North Star, always remaining true to her purpose. Caring about those who suffer from eczema and the planet, Patrice is striving to expand her business globally, never feeling disadvantaged by her circumstances. The DNA of a true entrepreneur. Links and References Patrice Mousseau, Owner, Satya Organic Skincare LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrice-mousseau-1109791a/ Website - https://satya.ca Vicki Saunders, CEO of SheEO LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vsaunders/ Corby Fine, VP Digital at goeasy LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/corbyfine/ Devinder Gill, Regional Vice President, RBC Business Financial Services LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/devinder-k-gill-82446323/ RBC Business page – https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/index.html RBC COVID-19 Financial Relief page - https://www.rbc.com/covid-19/business.html To get specialized support for your business, visit - https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/advice/industry-expertise.html Canada United - https://www.gocanadaunited.ca/ Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://chatterth

Joe Parenteau is one of the co-founders of Vancouver based startup Fable. They want to become a world-renowned direct to the consumer brand, that sells dinner plates and cutlery, and eventually other accessories for your home. Finding and acquiring customers is crucial, but it is both challenging and expensive in a crowded marketplace. Our three thought leaders have different opinions about Fable's prospects. Sunil Sharma, Managing Director of Techstars Toronto, likes the founders, their business plan, and the fact they are generating revenue. Lori Darlington, VP of RBC, is a fan of their brand and their accomplishments to date but encourages them to work closely with their financial institution, and advisors on a SWOT analysis and scenario planning. Joe Mimran, who created Club Monaco, and the Joe Fresh brand isn't so confident. He views the category as slow-moving, questions Fable's price point, and then offers them some incredible advice to create a brand that can be world-renowned. We include a bonus track featuring Joe Mimran's story. Presented by, RBC. From bookkeeping to dinnerware (01:28) Graduating as an account Joe Parenteau starts his career at an accounting firm that built software for bookkeeping. While working there Joe was inspired to create his own company. With a passion for interior design and the desire to be an entrepreneur, Joe cofounds Fable.co, a dinnerware company selling directly to consumers. Designed in Vancouver, made in Portugal (05:27) Unlike Amazon and Wayfair who merely curate dinnerware, Fable, design the dinnerware themselves and sources it from Portugal, using only ethical and sustainable craftsmanship. Joe and his partners' vision is to expand their product range, moving from the dinner table to other spaces across the home. Joe asks for advice (08:50) In order to fulfil this vision, Joe asks for the following advice: (1) What it takes to develop a brand? (2) The best way to grow Fable and raise capital to expand the business? Our three experts, Joe Mimran, Lori Darlington and Sunil Sharma share their advice. Our experts weigh in (10:40) Joe Mimran, President JM&A Inc, Founder Club Monaco and Joe Fresh, advises Joe to "pound away" at his story to build his brand and communicate why his products are different to thousands of others. Lori Darlington, VP, Small Business & Strategic Partnerships, RBC encourages Joe to perform a SWOT analysis with as many parties as possible. Sunil Sharma, Managing Director at Techstars Toronto, believes that as Joe's business is generating revenue, he should not be in a hurry to seek funding. How can fable be heard? My final thoughts (24:05) "Attention is the oxygen of almost all human endeavour" In this age of noise, many brands are starving for attention and only if you make your customer the hero will you be noticed. What you do, only matters if it matters to your customer and always seek for opportunities to surprise and delight them at every turn. Links and References Joe Parenteau, Co-founder, CEO at Fable LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jparenteau Website - https://fablehome.co Joe Mimran, President JM&A Inc, Founder Club Monaco and Joe Fresh https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-mimran-32902814/ Sunil Sharma, Managing Director at Techstars Toronto https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunilsharmats/ Lori Darlington, VP, Small Business & Strategic Partnerships, RBC https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-darlington/ RBC Business page – https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/index.html RBC Financial Relief page - https://www.rbc.com/covid-19/business.html Canada United - https://www.gocanadaunited.ca/ RBC Small Business navigator - www.rbc.com/smallbusinessnavigator Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://chatterthatmatters.ca Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chatterthatmatters/ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcGvzmw9MFkUcGylrFA2xCQ

Wonderkind brings unique & tailored gifts right to your door. They represent over one-hundred and twenty Made in Canada businesses, support communities, empower female entrepreneurs & spread kindness. One gift at a time. Now that's some kind of wonderful. Or is it? Is it possible that all of this good is complicating Wonderkind's offering and making it harder for the consumer to buy? Are the founders, Tara Cochrane and Shawna Pereira's burning desire to sustain woman enterprise, distracting them from building a sustainable business? I went to three experts to ask these questions and more, and all came back with exceptional advice, Arlene Dickinson, Dragon, Entrepreneur, Partner, and Mother who has mentored, guided, and invested in so many successful leaders and businesses. Jay Bhatti, co-Founder of Brand Project, one of the world's leading thinkers and doers on how entrepreneurs can develop and scale their ideas, and Nazine Virjee, VP of RBC. She focuses her wealth of experience partly on new ventures. A heartfelt story that beats with passion, emotion, and desire combined with insights and ideas that anyone can apply to make their dreams a reality. Presented by RBC. Books, Tara's best friends (01:45) Moving around a lot as a kid in a single-parent household, taught Tara resilience and that anything was possible. Books were her best friends. Feeding her curiosity and imagination and by immersing herself and learning other people stories, enabled her to better understand and connect with people as well as opened up a different way of thinking. A chance meeting leads to great things (04:31) While getting back her roots of writing, Tara Cochrane, meets Shawna Pereira at a fundraiser. They worked well together, shared the same values and had a passion for small business. The beginnings of a new partnership and a new business emerge with the idea of taking the power of storytelling - the stories of local businesses - and making it into a business platform. Curiosity and kindness come together (06:02) Tara and Shawna combine the concept of personalization and the sense of surprise to establish Wonderkind, delivering unique & tailored gifts right to your door…curiosity and kindness coming together. Showcasing businesses founded and cofounded by female entrepreneurs, they represent over one-hundred and twenty Made in Canada businesses, sharing kindness one gift at a time. But there could be too much for customers to wonder about. First-class advice from our experts (11:47) Naznine Naznine Virjee, VP Commercial Markets, Retail, RBC, doesn't start by looking at the numbers, rather she first wants to understand the business model and the customer problem Tara is solving. Additionally, Nazine, pints out that managing is very important, and if there is one thing the COVID pandemic has taught is how to manage risk. Jay Bhatti, Co-Founder & Partner, Brand Project, believes that Tara's core product offering and purpose have to mesh together very well in order to attract customers and talent. Arlene Dickinson, General Partner at District Ventures Capital, advises Tara to be clearer in her messaging on how Wonderkind's process works - simplicity is key. It's a wrap - Tony's final thoughts (26:41) It's important that Tara chooses from the many options Wonderkind offers and lock onto to what success looks like. Is it supporting woman entrepreneurs, gifting or supporting charities? Clarity of purpose and my you matter is going to be key. Links and References Tara Cochrane, Founder + Creative Director, Wonderkind https://www.linkedin.com/in/taracochrane/ Website - https://wonderkind.ca LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/wonderkindinc/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/wonderkind_inc Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/wonderkind.ca/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wonderkind_inc Arlene Dickinson, General Partner at District Ventures Capital Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/arlenedickinson/ Jay Bhatti, Co-Founder & Partner, Brand Project LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaybhatti/ Naznine Virjee, VP Commercial Markets, Retail, RBC LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/naznine-virjee-73695a7/ RBC Business page – https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/index.html RBC COVID-19 Financial Relief page - https://www.rbc.com/covid-19/business.html To get specialized support for your business, visit - https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/advice/industry-expertise.html Canada United - https://www.gocanadaunited.ca/ Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://chatterthatmatters.ca Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chatterthatmatters/ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcGvzmw9MFkUcGylrFA2xCQ

As a mother, Sheri Allain wondered why there wasn't more focus on STEM for children, especially girls and why her children's school had nights devoted to drama, music, arts and crafts, but not one on technology. So Sheri created CODEZILLA to provide hands-on coding classes, camps and parties, and lunch and after school programs for kids ages 4 - 14. And Sheri's business takes off as she isn't the only parent asking the questions. And then COVID-19 hits and hands-on becomes virtual? Sheri transforms her business only to find parents all over the world knocking at her door! Has the business become too big and complicated? Sheri asks our experts Bruce Croxon one of Canada's most successful entrepreneurs, Ken Wong one of Canada's leading business professors and Paul daSilva RBC's leading franchise expert for help. Should she sell, scale or franchise? After listening to her story and their advice what would you do? Presented by RBC. The perfect mix (01:22) Sheri's has both educator and entrepreneurial DNA flowing through her blood, her one grandfather was a Prairie school teacher and the other a successful businessman. With this and her desire to provide more STEM activities for school kids, Sheri continues the family legacy and starts her business, Codezilla, a business teaching kids to code. The beginning - Hello World (03:51) Hiring her first instructors in 2017, Codezilla immediately takes off - forty kids in four hours - first testing the idea and then quickly transitioning to charging for it once she realizes the demand is real. Initially reluctant to be the face of the brand, Sheri realizes that her opinion and points of view are valued by many and makes the switch to be front and centre. Codezilla is now in over 40 schools across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Offline to online - a rapid response (07:04) COVID-19 forces Codezilla to change their delivery model, what was once face to face has to become virtual. Sheri and team responded quickly and within two weeks changed the entire business to online learning, learning as the went and making changes to enhance the experience. Her business grew rapidly but she also has her own kids to look after. Now Sheri has some decisions to make: Sell, scale or franchise. Sell, scale or franchise? Our experts dial-in (10:49) Paul daSilva, National VP, Franchise Financing, RBC offers great advice on Sheri's franchising opportunities, key steps to take and where she can get assistance. Ken Wong, Distinguished Professor, Smith School of Business at Queens University, shoots straight and advises Sheri to chose what business she is in; and if she was to franchise she needs to standardize her people, process and props. Bruce Croxon, Managing Partner, Round 13 Capital, believes Sheri should rather scale her business and find a partner to help her do so. Tony's parting thoughts (25:21) Although Sheri has a tough choice to make, franchising is not for Sheri. With the DNA of entrepreneurship and teaching, she should scale the business instead and find a partner to compliment her, allowing her to run her business and achieve a balance between her business and family life. Links and References Sheri Allain, Founder, Codezilla - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheri-allain-6b49b01/ Website - https://codezillakids.com LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/codezillakids/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/codezillakids @codezillakids Twitter - https://twitter.com/CodezillaKids @CodezillaKids Bruce Croxon, Managing Partner, Round 13 Capital https://www.linkedin.com/in/brucecroxon/ Ken Wong, Distinguished Professor, Smith School of Business at Queens University https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-wong-4453892 Paul daSilva, National VP, Franchise Financing, RBC LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-dasilva-23642a2b/ RBC Business page – https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/index.html RBC COVID-19 Financial Relief page - https://www.rbc.com/covid-19/business.html To get specialized support for your business, visit - https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/advice/industry-expertise.html Canada United - https://www.gocanadaunited.ca/ Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://chatterthatmatters.ca Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chatterthatmatters/ Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcGvzmw9MFkUcGylrFA2xCQ

Thirty thought leaders step up with profound insights, compelling ideas, and much-needed and deserved inspiration to help small business owners get to where they need and deserve to go. In Series One, Small Business Matters personalized the stories of 10 small business owners so that we take their dreams and challenges personally. Why? Small business is the heart of our economy, and it is in our collective interest to keep them beating strong. In each episode, three thought leaders invested the time to learn their business and to offer their ideas. In this episode, I share some of their wisdom, thought leadership we can all benefit from. Presented by RBC. Mastering the basics (01:36) Dr Trung Ngo advises Paul Hemburrow in Ep2, that by mastering the basics, he can better navigate his challenges and increase his chances of success. Finding the silver lining (02:38) In Ep 4, Joe's O'Brien's whaleboat touring business battles to stay afloat during COVID-19, but Alexandra Blum and Ujwal Arkalgud offer inspiring advice on where his next opportunities lie, post COVID - if only he can hang in there. Touch and Taste (05:48) Kristi Knowles, Mother Raw (Ep 5)and Sheena Russell's businesses, Made with Local, (Ep 10) both rely on "touch and taste". Our experts, Andrew Black and Darrell Jones, share the importance of getting one's product into consumers hands and encouraging them to share their great experiences to build word of mouth. Value (06:42) When talking to Paul Hemburrow's, at Health Hub Solutions, David Kincaid defined value: "It's not what a product does, but what it enables." In Ep 7, Joe Jackman, believes that Jennifer Menard, needed to communicate her value, taking credit for it and finding the "tie-breaker". For Lisa Taylor, founder of Challenge Factory, Kelly Peters advised that she needed to clearly articulate what her customers were going to get - their results. Your point of difference and telling your story (10:30) In Ep 8, Chris Barrett, CEO of Operatic, identified a key point of difference Ernesto Gomezes needed to take advantage of. Duke Mackenzie, shared his advice on the power of personalized storytelling. Digital marketing & fly fishing (13:19) Chris Barrett and Sabrina Geremia, VP & Country Director at Google, Canada shared their advice on how digital marketing can power one's business. From understanding your customers intent to using online reviews to build trust and the need for your digital destinations to perform speedily. Narrow your focus (15:27) Eliminating redundancies, focussing on fewer opportunities and overall, narrowing one's focus was shared by many of our experts. Beverly Hammond and Caroline Paxton advised Lisa Taylor on where she could narrow her focus. Broaden your focus (16:48) Additionally, many of our experts shared advice on broadening one's focus. Increased revenue can be had by expanding one's opportunities. Corby Fine advised Traci Shepheard as such in Ep 1. In Ep 6 , Lisa Kimmel, CEO of Edelman, Canada and Latin America encouraged Carly Shuler, Co-Founder of Hoot Reading to expand from literacy to STEM. For Jennifer Menard, Stephen Shaw recommended she broaden her offering to include other services, such as security. Jeanne Beker recommended François Thériault, Co-Founder at Surmesur, expand his business into woman's wear. Nancy Rooney, VP of PepsiCo, guided Kristi Knowles on where she could expand her business and Bobby Sahni, Partner & Co-Founder, Ethnicity Matters provided Sheena Russell with ideas on expanding her product line to cater for ethnic communities. Not just a bank - RBC's depth of advice (20:38) Caroline Paxton, provided our entrepreneurs with advice on all things social media related. Laura Davey, on the importance of cash flow; Laura Darlington shared the role of scenario planning in ones business; Kellie Sauriol planning and knowing ones financial situation is key to engaging with your financial advisor; Jane Henderson, displayed her depth of knowledge of the food industry when advising Kristi Knowles; Eric Leblanc, shared advice on the importance of understanding what one is trying to achieve; Kiruba Sankar, on the advantage of being a certified supplier; Kellie Sauriol, the importance of budding credibility with your bank; Lolita Guerrera, compliments Francois on his quick pivot to save his business; Sid Paquette, advises Paul that being transparent allows financial advisors to truly understand his issues. Links and References RBC Business page – https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/index.html RBC COVID-19 Financial Relief page - https://www.rbc.com/covid-19/business.html To get specialized support for your business, visit https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/advice/industry-expertise.html Future Launch - https://www.rbc.com/dms/enterprise/futurelaunch/index.html Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://tonychapmanreactions.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/ Instagram - https://

Meet the Heroes of Small Business Matters Series One. Each week, during the darkest days of COVID-19, we produced a podcast featuring a small business owner, and three thought leaders who help them get to where they need and deserve to go. All made possible through the incredible support of RBC. We went remotely across Canada to explore many sectors of our economy. We talked to startups, established businesses, first-generation Canadians to family-owned companies that spanned decades. Every one of them inspired me with their resilience, resolve, and ability to reinvent. In this podcast, I revisit each one to pay tribute to these heroes and to share what I learned along the way. Small Business Matters series, presented by RBC. Traci Shepheard (01:41) Traci Shepheard's lifelong dream was to be an entrepreneur building a health and wellness business. She invested her savings and purchased an Airstream Trailer, retrofitting it to create a 'rock star' experience. MeditationWorks is launched. As she starts the ignition, her wheels fall off when COVID-19 stops everything in their tracks, especially a studio where people meditate inside a trailer, even one as beautiful as Traci's. Paul Hemburrow (04:14) Paul and his partner buy a profitable business that rents TV sets to patients in hospitals and then reinvents it to offer a suite of innovative tools that patients can access at their bedside while benefiting the hospital and healthcare. Health Hub Solutions finally get the breakthrough they need but COVID-19 arrives and no one is focused on the future, just surviving the day. Lisa Taylor (06:08) A powerful insight leads Lisa Taylor to reinvent the future of work. Many people were satisfied at work, but not fulfilled. Lisa left the security of a great job to launch the Challenge Factory, a research-based, process-driven consultancy that helps companies create productive cultures where people work with a higher purpose. She moves from the uncertainty of a startup to the complexities of leading a growing business, only to have today's economic uncertainty, turn her business upside down. Joe O'Brien (09:11) Joe O'Brien is a gifted entrepreneur operating his tourism business, O'Brien Boat Tours, from St John's Newfoundland. He captains his guests to the edge of the world, with whale watching, giant icebergs, and a wild bird sanctuary, mixed in with the songs and spirit of Newfoundland and Labrador. are on offer. Joe shares his story of growing up in a fishing village and having to reinvent when the Cod disappeared. COVID-19, requires Joe to reinvent once again. Kristi Knowles (11:01) Kristi knows that the company needs a rebrand if they are going to battle international food giants for market share. Mother Raw is born, and the legacy of the Founder, and her mission of 'Good on Good' is woven across every consumer, retailer, and employee touchpoint. Manufacturing in Canada and in 5000 locations, can Kristi finance this growth and get the attention she feels Mother Raw deserves? Carly Shuler (12:49) After a five-year stint with Sesame Streets Labs in New York, and getting her Masters in Education at Harvard, Carly returns to Canada and creates Hootreading.com. Why? Carly knows that kids who love to read will spend a lifetime loving to learn. Hootreading matches students with real teachers, and with Carly's proprietary technology and teaching methods, her business takes off. Her concern is that she might draw the attention of multinationals who will go after her market share with their deeper pockets. Jennifer Menard (14:29) Jennifer Menard's life has been about reinvention, regardless of her circumstance, openly sharing her life story growing up in a broken home, but persevering to become a successful entrepreneur. Finding her path through a mentor who employed her and then subsequently encouraged her to buy the business she helped build. Jennifer rebrands, brings in a partner and Staff Shop is born, staffing events across North America and the Caribbean. Her business is all is promising until COVID-19 cancels every event. Ernesto Gomez (17:12) Ernesto Gomez is a first-generation Canadian who fell in love with food watching and then helping his mother and grandmother prepare meals in their kitchen. Curiosity led him to explore Chinese and Italian food and travel the world, feeding his mind with possibilities. A chance meeting in Vancouver kick-starts Ernesto's latest venture - Nuba Restaurant. Armed with a war chest, they set their sites on a new location in Spain and then COVID-19 attacks in more ways than one. They have to shut down their restaurants, and Ernesto catches the virus. Francois Theriault (20:04) Surmesur, an innovative, personality led tech-enabled made-to-measure men's wear retail chain. Francois and his brother Vincent understand customer service better than most. Instead of selling a made to measure suit, they train their staff to sell into a moment that someone wants to own. They combine this insight, w

Sheena Russell is the co-founder of Made with Local, and her story will inspire anyone who wants to be their own boss, and act on their beliefs and values. Made with Local sources local ingredients and then works with social enterprises to employ people who have barriers to the mainstream workforce. When COVID hits, the government orders this 'high risk' segment of the population into isolation, leaving Sheena with a ton of orders to fill and no one there to help her. Sheena makes a trademark entrepreneurial move - she jumps in with her family to bake, make and ship products, and fast-tracks a new product that is perfect for these times. If that isn't enough to earn your admiration, Sheena is also a Certified B Corp, to reflect a new kind of business that balances purpose and profit. They are legally required to consider the impact of their decisions on their workers, customers, suppliers, community, and the environment. Sheena is part of a community of leaders, driving a global movement of people using business as a force for good. Sheena's challenge is to have her brands compete for attention in some of the world's most competitive food markets. To help her with her quest we invite Andrew Black, CEO of Brand Project, a venture capital firm, Bobby Sahni, from Ethnicity Matters to advise her on tapping into the multicultural market. Kellie Sauriol, from RBC, talks about how to ensure her growth ambitions are supported. Presented by RBC. Humble beginnings (01:24) After graduating from Dalhousie University, Sheena joins the City of Halifax teaching businesses how to recycle but needs a more creative outlet. In 2012, spotting an opportunity to produce healthy and tasty snacks, Sheena starts Made with Local. She starts selling her snacks at local farmers markets on the East Coast, building a strong following and in 2016 enters Sobeys Atlantic with her real food bars. Local ingredients, local partnerships (04:59) Using local ingredients is not enough, Sheena partners with a Nova Scotian social enterprise, the Flower Cart Group, using them to help make her products. With incredible support from SheEO mentors Made with Local expands further. Now with a presence in Sobeys Ontario, a private label partnership with FarmBoy and opportunities to expand their partnership with Loblaws, Sheena's grassroots approach has paid off. To boot, Made With Local achieves a B-Corp certification. Down, but not out (10:30) COVID-19 strikes! "Well, it hit us like a ton of bricks." With their production capacity completely shut down, and a large order pending, Sheena had to make alternate plans. It was all hands on deck, Sheena, her husband, and her director of sales roll up their sleeves and baked and packed. As if that was not enough, they were in the process of launching a new product. Expert advice (14:10) Andrew Black, Founder Managing Partner, Brand Project recommend Sheena continue to persevere in retail and do more sampling once COVID-19 allows her to do so. Bobby Sahni, Partner & Co-Founder, Ethnicity Matters, points out that: when catering to different ethnic communities dietary requirements, they are not all are homogeneous. Kellie Sauriol, Regional Vice President, Business Financial Services, RBC suggests focussing on working capital and cash flow constraints and using a forecast to do so. Capitalism has a conscience - Tony's closing thoughts (22:47) Sheena has proven that profit and purpose can go hand in hand. Sourcing local ingredients and partnering with social enterprise, not as charity, but as a fundamental part the business and culture. And inspire of growing the business in one on the most competitive provinces, Ontario, remained true to her values, values that matter to all of us. Links and References Sheena Russell, Founder, Made with Local LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheena-russell-0459b728/ Website - https://www.madewithlocal.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/madewithlocal @madewithlocal Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/madewithlocal @madewithlocal Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/madewithlocal/ @madewithlocal SheEO - https://sheeo.world Sobeys - https://corporate.sobeys.com Farm Boy - https://www.farmboy.ca B Corporation - https://bcorporation.net The Flower Cart Group - https://flowercart.ca Loblaws - https://www.loblaws.ca/about Andrew Black, Founder Managing Partner, Brand Project LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-black-2b3764/ Website - www.brandproject.com Bobby Sahni, Partner & Co-Founder, Ethnicity Matters LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobbysahni/ Website - https://ethnicitymatters.com Kellie Sauriol, Regional Vice President, Business Financial Services, RBC LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellie-sauriol-3a86a9158/ RBC Business page – https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/index.html RBC COVID-19 Financial Relief page - https://www.rbc.com/covid-19/business.html To get specialized support for your business, visit https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/advice/i

Jeanne Beker, one of the world's leading fashion authorities, Sabrina Geremia, Head of Google Canada, and Lolita Guerrera, VP of RBC Retail, are the experts in this episode. They offer powerful advice to co-founder Francois Theriault on how to reposition Surmesur, an innovative, personality led tech-enabled made-to-measure men's wear retail chain, to compete in a post COVID economy. Two of their ideas Francois acts upon immediately, a testament to the power of bringing entrepreneurs together with thought leaders to chart a profitable path forward. Francois and his brother Vincent understand customer service better than most. Instead of selling a made to measure suit, they train their staff to sell into a moment that someone wants to own. Walking down the aisle, presenting in a boardroom, looking sharp for that first date. They combine this insight, with a personality led shopping experience, and state of the art technology. The result is fabulous, fitted, and affordable made to measure fashion for men and a loyal customer base. Their skills as entrepreneurs lead them from one store in Quebec City to expansion across Canada and into the United States and Mexico. Then COVID-19 hits. Weddings are cancelled, presentations are now done from the neck up over Zoom, and stores are closed. In classic entrepreneurial fashion, the Theriault brothers start selling masks to generate much-needed cash flow to invest in the reinvention of their business. Small Business Matters series, presented by RBC. Francois finds inspiration in Asia (02:08) Realizing that a career in finance is not for him, Francois, shortly after graduating, spends a year travelling Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, India and China. Inspired by the suit shops in China and Thailand, where custom-fit suits are the fraction of a cost of those in Canada, Francois and his brother decide to go into business. A better way to buy suits - a perfect fit (03:01) The service experience gained while working in restaurants, combined with the idea of custom-fit suits, the Thériault brothers begin their entrepreneurial journey, not just selling suit but selling experiences. Getting to truly know their customers and building relationships, sets them on the road to success. With 10 stores across Canada, the United States and Mexico, they build a business founded on a culture of empowerment and with staff with personality. A new way of doing business (06:20) COVID-19 upends their business. Face-to-face relationships are no longer possible and their customer's requirements have changed too. From suits to sneakers, causal wear now dominates, but will this be a viable option for Surmesur? Realizing they need to reinvent themselves, for Francois, digital stands out as a key factor for success. Operating in a post COVID economy (14:18) Jeanne Beker http://www.jeannebeker.com/about/, Style Editor at TSC and Creative Director, believes Surmesur can broaden their appeal by offering tailored suits for woman. Sabrina Geremia, VP & Country Director at Google, Canada believes Francois "has the opportunity to treat his website as a flagship store" and Lolita Guerrera, VP, Commercial Markets, Retail, RBC, points out Surmesurs' resilience in pivoting from suits to masks. Tonys final thoughts (25:27) Francois has a burning desire to succeed and one word describes his life and his business: "transformation". Passionate about quality and to truly understand their customers moments that matter, Surmesur designs outfits that are both an expression and a vessel to take them there. "There's no doubt in my mind, you will continue to transform and not just as a business, but transforming the customer's employees that you feel so honoured to serve." Links and References François Thériault, Co-Founder at Surmesur - https://www.linkedin.com/in/francois-theriault-8280b227/ https://www.surmesur.com Jeanne Beker, Style Editor at TSC , Author, Keynote Speaker, Host, Freelance Journalist, Creative Director - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanne-beker-109a501b/ http://www.jeannebeker.com/about/ Sabrina Geremia, VP & Country Director at Google, Canada - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrina-geremia-028644/ https://about.google/ Digital Main Street - https://digitalmainstreet.ca ShopHERE program - https://digitalmainstreet.ca/shophere/ Helping Small Business - https://canada.googleblog.com/2020/05/helping-50000-canadian-small-businesses.html Lolita Guerrera, VP, Commercial Markets, Retail, RBC LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lolita-guerrera-mba-2885a014/ RBC Business page – https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/index.html RBC COVID-19 Financial Relief page - https://www.rbc.com/covid-19/business.html To get specialized support for your business, visit https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/advice/industry-expertise.html Future Launch - https://www.rbc.com/dms/enterprise/futurelaunch/index.html Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://tonychapmanreactions.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - ht

If you want to be swept away in a story about resilience, reinvention and catching dreams, this episode is for you. Then combine it with compelling advice from three experts, Robert Carter, Chris Barrett and Duke McKenzie on how to engage the head, heart and wallets of customers. It is appointment listening for anyone wanting a post-COVID comeback. Ernesto Gomez is a first-generation Canadian who fell in love with food watching and then helping his mother and grandmother prepare meals in their Mexico kitchen. Curiosity led him to explore Chinese and Italian food and when he was old enough, travel the world, feeding his mind with possibilities. Ernesto returns to Mexico and opens a restaurant and attends the school of hard knocks. After five years with his knapsack packed with experience, he goes off on another exploration and returns to Vancouver, where his family has immigrated. Bored and restless he wanders into Nuba restaurant and meets Victor and then, well, I won't spoil that part of the story. What Ernesto and Victor build in terms of restaurants, formats, culture and community is a case study in entrepreneurship. Armed with a war chest, they set their sights on a new location in Spain and then COVID-19 attacks in more ways than one. They have to shut down their restaurants, and Ernesto catches the virus. For anyone thinking this is a common flu pay attention to how Ernesto, strong and healthy has to fight for every breath and during that time, fight to keep their dream alive and jobs for his employees. Small Business Matters series, presented by RBC. Ernesto turns a passion into a career (1:06) Hunting deer with his father, cooking with his grandmother and his early passion for cooking supported by his mother, Ernesto "cooks from the heart". Receiving culinary training in Europe, Ernesto, turns his hobby into a career and learns the business in the school of hard knocks! However he needs more and enters a postgraduate program at Cornell. After graduating, Ernesto travels the world exploring the foods of Japan, France, Middle East and Spain, returning to Mexico to focus on stadium and arena food. Success in Vancouver (05:06) Following his parents to Vancouver, Canada, a chance meeting sets Ernesto on a path to success. He sells his business in Mexico, and together with his new-found partner, Victor, reinvigorates an existing restaurant, Nuba. From these humble beginnings, they go on to establish 2 different concepts and expand to create a 100 seater flagship restaurant and another focusing on kids. Off the back of this success, Ernesto, travels to Spain to open a new restaurant but returns to Vancouver with an unwelcome guest, the Coronavirus. Ernesto recovers from the Coronavirus and pivots the business (08:33) For 12 days Ernesto, is flat on his back, taken down by the Coronavirus and so has his business. To survive they cut salaries, cancel partner dividends, reduce working hours and lay off staff. But that's not enough. Popular delivery platforms are eating away at their meagre profits. Something has to change. With the money that would have been spent on their expansion into Spain, they decide to build their own, bespoke food delivery service but don't stop there. They also create their own meal kits. The path to growth - the experts plot a way forward for Ernesto (13:42) Customers are going to be wary about coming back to restaurants. Robert Carter, managing partner of Stratton Hunter Group suggests a strong focus on building trust from a sanitation standpoint. Duke McKenzie, CEO, re6l advises Ernesto to continue to tell his story, but much more frequently - he has all the right ingredients for authentic stories. Chris Barrett, CEO, Operatic Agency provides 3 key pieces of advice: knowing your audience, being visible to customers searching for food delivery and getting the story of "one location straight to your door service" out there - its a key differentiator. I am encouraged by Ernesto - Tony's final thoughts (25:00)Despite the devastating impact COVID-19 has had on the restaurant sector, I am encouraged having spoken to Ernesto. I am encouraged by his curiosity, his resilience and his determination to reinvent his business in the face of personal and professional adversity. Ernesto displays the fighting spirit this country needs and in Ernesto's case, fortune has truly favoured the bold. Links and References @ernestokut https://www.instagram.com/ernestokut/ Website - https://www.nuba.ca Instagram - @nubatown https://www.instagram.com/nubatown/ Twitter - @nubatown https://twitter.com/nubatown Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/nubatown Trip Advisor - https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Restaurant_Review-g154943-d2301939-Reviews-Nuba-Vancouver_British_Columbia.html Inside Vancouver - https://www.insidevancouver.ca/2019/10/31/vegan-meals-vancouver/ Chris Barrett, CEO at Operatic Agency - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisbarrett2/ Website - https://operaticagency.com Duke McKenzie, CEO at re6l - https:

Jennifer Menard's life has been about reinvention, regardless of her circumstance. She openly shares her life story growing up in a broken home but perseveres to become a successful entrepreneur. She found her path through a mentor who employed her and then subsequently encouraged her to buy the business she helped build. She rebrands, brings in a partner and Staff Shop is now staffing events across North America and even the Caribbean. Her business is guided by purpose and all is promising until COVID-19 cancels every event. Listen to how Jennifer responds by pivoting her business, earning the admiration and advice from Stephen Shaw who has produced for the Rolling Stones and Oprah Winfrey; Joe Jackman who has helped some of the worlds largest brands pivot and Kiruba Sankar, Global Leader, Global Procurement - Corporate Social Responsibility, RBC. Small Business Matters series, presented by RBC. A troubled start (01:04) Jennifer shares her story growing up in a troubled home. The chaos and trauma impacted her personally but by surrounding herself with the right people and the right resources, she managed to survive. Leaving home in northern Ontario at 18, Jennifer moves to Toronto, lands a job at MLSE and begins to rebuild her life. From strength to strength (03:51) Two years later Jennifer connects with Geoff Bagg and joins his company, The Bagg Group. Her path to entrepreneurship and success begins when Jennifer is given an opportunity to start a hospitality and event division at The Bagg Group, eventually buying the division to start Staff Shop. She builds a successful business, staffing events across North America. Making the pivot (07:45) Then COD-19 hits but Jennifer is not deterred. Although events are shut down, cutting off the lid blood of her business, she rapidly pivots to focus on staffing for essential services. Considering the future of Staff Shop, Jennifer has some fundamental questions she needs answered: how much does she pivot, how far, how fast and for how long? The experts weigh in (12:20) Joe Jackman: "Be really good at not only selling your proposition but executing it and getting credit for what makes you different." In order to grow her business, Stephen Shaw advises Jennifer to pinpoint growth industries and land a key client. Kiruba Sankar from RBC acknowledges Jennifer's certifications allows her access to opportunities, but those with the best method win Tony's closing thoughts (25:51) Tony believes clients will indeed pay a premium for Jennifers offer of full-time versus contract staff. Competing on price is a race to zero but competing with a premium offer is where you'll find a higher purpose, better employees and better clients. Links and References Jennifer Menard - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-menard-56276812/ Website - http://staffshop.ca Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/StaffShop.ca/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/staffshop.ca/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/staffshop/people/ Stephen Shaw, Principal, Round Room Live - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-shaw-98170019/ Website - https://roundroomlive.com Joe Jackman, Founder | CEO, Jackman - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-jackman/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearejackman/ Kiruba Sankar, Global Leader, Global Procurement - Corporate Social Responsibility, RBC LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sankarkiruba/ Supplier Diversity - https://www.rbc.com/sourcing/supplier_diversity.html RBC Business page – https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/index.html RBC COVID-19 Financial Relief page - https://www.rbc.com/covid-19/business.html Future Launch - https://www.rbc.com/dms/enterprise/futurelaunch/index.html Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://tonychapmanreactions.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chatterthatmatters/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Chatter-that-Matters-111890333544575

After a five-year stint with Sesame Streets Labs in New York, and getting her Masters in Education at Harvard, Carly Shuler returns to Canada. She creates Hootreading.com. Why? Carly knows that kids who love to read will spend a lifetime loving to learn. Hootreading.com matches students with real teachers, and with Carly's proprietary technology and teaching methods, her business takes off. Her concern is that she might draw the attention of multinationals who will go after her market share with their deeper pockets. John Ruffolo, Founder, OMERS Ventures and Co-Founder, Council of Canadian Innovators, Lisa Kimmel, Chair & CEO, Canada & Latin America, Edelman and Eric Leblanc, VP, Knowledge Based Industries, at RBC step in to help. Small Business Matters series, presented by RBC. Carly spots a gap in the market (01:14) While working at Spin Master Canada, Carly spots an opportunity. There is a gap between those that make the toys and those that truly understand learning and childhood development. After receiving a masters in technology in education, from Harvard, she lands a job at the Joan Ganz Cooney Center https://joanganzcooneycenter.org at Sesame Workshop. Return to Canada (03:33) Carly returns to Winnipeg, Canada and starts Hoot Reading. In true entrepreneurial fashion, Carly acknowledges she needs to make up for her weaknesses and appoints a co-founder to help scale the business. Setting out "to give every child the opportunity to have one on one reading practice with real classroom teachers" Hoot Reading makes it mark. The focus on literacy. Is paying off? (07:16) Tony explores Carlys' focus on literacy and the challenges facing Hoot Reading. With so much literacy content being free, communicating their value has been key to Hoot Readings' success. COVID-19 changed the demand for literacy services and Hoot Reading quickly adapts. However, maintaining its position in the market still remains a challenge. Defending Hoot Readings position - the experts make their points (12:36) Lisa Kimmel suggests Carly broaden her focus into STEM and with her credentials and unique experience, she has a great story to tell…but she needs to get it out there. John Ruffolo advises Carly that, customers will start to disappear over time, as such she needs to find ways in both direct and indirect channels, to continually add to her pipeline. Eric Leblanc, assisting companies "beyond the balance sheet" and seeking to understand the businesses plans and what they are trying to achieve, enable financial partners to provide complementary funding options to companies like Hoot Reading. Tony's advice on getting the attention Hoot Reading deserves (24:33) Our world is filled with noise and our attention is fleeting, breaking through this noise is key to getting attention for her brand. What Carly stands for, "Kids love to read, love to learn", needs to be woven across every touchpoint in order to breakthrough. Links and References Carly Shuler, CoFounder & CEO at Hoot Reading - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlyshuler/ Website - https://www.hootreading.com Facebook - @hootreading Twitter - https://twitter.com/hootreading Instagram: @hellohootreading @raisingandreading Lisa Kimmel, Chair & CEO, Canada & Latin America - Edelman - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lkimmel/ https://www.edelman.com John Ruffolo, Founder, OMERS Ventures and Co-Founder - Council of Canadian Innovators https://www.linkedin.com/in/joruffolo/ https://www.omersventures.com https://www.canadianinnovators.org Eric Leblanc, VP, Knowledge Based Industries, RBC LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-leblanc-758a332/ RBC Business page – https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/index.html RBC COVID-19 Financial Relief page - https://www.rbc.com/covid-19/business.html Future Launch - https://www.rbc.com/dms/enterprise/futurelaunch/index.html Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://tonychapmanreactions.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chatterthatmatters/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Chatter-that-Matters-111890333544575

Kristi knows that the company needs a rebrand if they are going to battle international food giants for market share. Mother Raw is born, and the legacy of the Founder, and her mission of 'Good on Good' is woven across every consumer, retailer, and employee touchpoint. Kristi chooses to manufacture in Canada. Mother Raw continues to innovate into a lineup of plant-based, organic salad dressings, and condiments. 80% of new products fail in the grocery store, but Kristi ignores the odds. In just over a year, Mother Raw is in 5000 locations, including Target in the USA and Walmart in Canada. Can Kristi finance this growth? Can she get the attention she feels Mother Raw deserves? Is Food Service a new opportunity? What role does Manufactured in Canada play? We ask Jane, Darryl and Nancy to weigh in. Small Business Matters series, presented by RBC. From corporate veteran to entrepreneur (01:20) After 25 years working for a multinational, a venture capital firm invites Kristi to work with the founder of Raw Foods. Then tragedy strikes. The founder, Michelle, passes away. Kristi bravely decides to rebrand but ensures that she still remains true the founders' wishes. Mother Raw is born (03:42) With a new name and 21 different organic plant-based products, their mission "put good on good" is the golden thread running through the entire business. Pursued with vigour and without compromise, Mother Raw is proving that plant-based foods are not a fad. Against the odds - taking on the international food giants (06:32) Kristi's inventive and tenacious leadership, combined with Mother Raw's compelling vision and the power of offering locally produced products, is paying dividends. Now in over 5000 retail locations, Mother Raw is challenging many of the entrenched international players. Kristi, ignored all the odds, zigged while others zagged and reinvented a dusty category. The experts share their advice (12:04) Daryl Jones, CEO of Save on Foods, believes product sampling is key and when getting your products on shelf, high quality, locally produced products will win over international products. Nancy Rooney, V.P. of marketing for PepsiCo, North America, encourages Kristi to expand through partnerships, aggregators and food trucks and that Mother Raws products are a perfect complement to increase basket size. Jane Henderson, VP, Commercial Banking, RBC, advises Kristi to finance her growth through debt versus giving away her hard-earned equity. Tonys closing thoughts (21:27) Kristi kept true to the founders' mission, "good on good", ensuring that her legacy is felt across the entire business. Keep building your company from the foundation up and continue to make the consumer your hero and your purpose. Finally, think of food service as a place for consumers to experience your brand and hold onto your hard-earned equity. Links and References Kristi Knowles - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristiknowles/ Website - https://motherraw.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/motherraw/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/motherraw Twitter - https://twitter.com/motherraw Nancy Rooney - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-rooney-769a581/ Pepsico - https://www.pepsico.com Darrell Jones - https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrell-jones-a17ba271 Save-On-Foods - http://saveonfoods.com Jane Henderson, VP, Commercial Banking, RBC LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-henderson-30080a11/ To get specialized support for your business, visit https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/advice/industry-expertise.html RBC Go Global support https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/international-trade/index.html RBC Global Connect rbc.com/globalconnect Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://tonychapmanreactions.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chatterthatmatters/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Chatter-that-Matters-111890333544575

Joe O'Brien is a gifted entrepreneur. His tourism operation, O'Brien Boat Tours, includes three boats, two restaurants, gift shops, and shuttle buses. His base is St John's Newfoundland, and he captains his guests to the edge of the world where they get so close to a whale that they can smell its breath. Giant icebergs, a wild bird sanctuary, mixed in with the songs and spirit of Newfoundland and Labrador. Joe shares his story of growing up in a fishing village and having to reinvent when the Cod disappeared. Joe's philosophy on how to create experiences for his guests and employees that last a lifetime is a masterclass for the service economy. This economic storm could capsize his business. Joe needs our help. We ask Ujwal Arkalgud, a cultural anthropologist, Alex Blum a talented tourism marketer, and Kellie Sauriol from RBC, who considers small business operators as heroes for their advice. They not only lift his spirit; they will lift his boats back into the water. Great insights for anyone building a career or brand in the tourism, hospitality, retail, and services space. Small Business Matters series, presented by RBC. Pivoting from Cod fishing to Whale watching (01:16) Joe O'Brien grows up in a fishing village 30 minutes from St John's Newfoundland, it is the only business his family knows, but in the 1980s, overfishing has ruined their livelihood. Joe considers a significant pivot when he looks at eco-tourism. But few are convinced. Thankfully Joe ignores the sceptic's and starts a boat tour business. He wants to take tourists to 'the edge of the universe, where whales, puffins, and icebergs. Joe learns the secret of the worlds great tourism operators (05:38) Joe realizes that he isn't in the tour boat business, he is in the business of creating memories that last a lifetime. To do so, he must master the local geography, weave in the unique culture of Newfoundland and Labrador, win over local businesses, and then hire and train employees that can do more than punch tickets; they must make every trip feel like the first and best. Joe builds a 5-star tour operator, wins countless awards, and puts smiles on the faces of thousands of customers while changing the work ethic of hundreds of employees. Joe now has three vessels, two gift shops, and restaurants, and shuttle buses. Instagram and Facebook are the perfect channels for guests to share coming so close to a whale, that they can smell its breath. Joe's boats are landlocked and his business might go underwater (10:18) Joe can have one of the most highly rated eco-tourism businesses in Canada, but COVID-19 and human isolation capsize his dream. Joe draws deep into his past when he pivoted from fishing to touring but is resilience enough? Joe knows he is not alone and always optimistic, he believes that we can work together and to start "…pulling on the rope together to make it go in the right direction." But he needs help - so we find him that help. The experts lift Joe's spirit (13:32) Ujwal Arkalgud, CEO of Motivbase is a brilliant cultural anthropologist who surprises Joe O'Brien with his thorough understanding of consumer behaviour, and why he knows Joe is well-positioned for the future if he can ride out the storm. Alexandra Blum, Founder of Silver Lining Marketing, one of Canada's top brand strategists and marketers in the tourism sector, gives Joe a playbook for engineering a post-COVID-19 comeback. Kellie Sauriol, from RBC, adds icing to Joe O'Brien's cake by stating that small business owners are her hero's and that his history stands tall. Tony wants to bottle Joe's resilience for all of Canada to consume (23:50) Some make things happen, while others watch and wonder what happens. Joe, you are and have always been someone to make things happen. Your resilience, entrepreneurial spirit, generosity, and constant pursuit to serve, and to create extraordinary experiences is something I wish we could bottle, and every Canadian could drink. Links and References Website - https://www.obriensboattours.com Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/obrienstours/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/obrienswhalebirdtours Twitter - https://twitter.com/obrienstours Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/obrienswhalebirdtour Newfoundland Labrador Tourism - https://www.newfoundlandlabrador.com Ujwal Arkalgud - https://www.linkedin.com/in/interpretivist/ Website - https://www.motivbase.com Alexandra Blum - https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandra-blum-a0bba8149/ Website - https://www.silverliningmarketing.ca Kellie Sauriol - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellie-sauriol-3a86a9158/ RBC Business page – https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/index.html RBC COVID-19 Financial Relief page - https://www.rbc.com/covid-19/business.html Future Launch - https://www.rbc.com/dms/enterprise/futurelaunch/index.html Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://tonychapmanreactions.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/

Lisa Taylor leads a team of a hundred people when she uncovers an insight that would change her course in life, and possibly the future of the Canadian economy. Many people were satisfied at work, but not fulfilled. Even successful people in their mid-career strides described their situation as "hanging in and hanging on". Lisa left the security of a great job to launch Challenge Factory, a research-based, process-driven consultancy. Their mission is to help companies create productive cultures where people work with a higher purpose. She moves from the uncertainty of a startup to the complexities of leading a growing business, only to have today's economic uncertainty, turn her business upside down. Calling upon our experts to help her navigate through these times, they come back with insights on branding, positioning, and building a more robust social presence that she, and you can apply, to grow any brand or business. Small Business Matters series, presented by RBC. Lisa uncovers an intriguing insight (01:56) While managing a team over a hundred professionals at Hewlett Packard, Lisa uncovers an insight that would form the foundation of her business, Challenge Factory. Many in her team, although successful, weren't satisfied. They were stuck. They loved what they did, but they were no longer challenged. Making the leap (04:42) A conversation with her father inspires Lisa to pursue her dream. Six years in the making and many conversations with her most respected and admired friends and colleagues, Lisa's new venture begins to take shape, eventually leaving the security of a corporate job to launch Challenge Factory. A square peg in a round hole (08:06) Founded on the discipline of career development, Lisa establishes a unique positioning for her business. Landing some significant clients, the business grows as does her presence in the industry - publishing a book (The Talent Revolution) and establishing herself as a thought leader on the future of work. Then COVID-19 strikes. The experts share their advice (15:35) Beverley Hammond (Broken Heart Love Affair), suggests Lisa narrows her focus and considers renaming her company; Kelly Peters (BEworks) encourages Lisa to convey to her clients the kind results they can expect. Finally, Caroline Paxton @RBC recommends focussing on only 2-3 social media channels for her marketing and Lori Darlington @RBC, advises Lisa to apply a scenario planning method to her business. Tony's final thoughts (25:34) There is no doubt Lisa is guided by a compelling higher purpose - hanging on and hanging in. "The more the world looks to Lisa for leadership on the future work, the more they'll look to the services you offer." And finally, Lisa should consider the rebranding advice from Beverley to sharpen her positioning, making her services "…easy to buy." Links and References Lisa Taylor - https://www.linkedin.com/in/authorlisataylor/ Website - www.challengefactory.ca Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/581098 Twitter - https://twitter.com/Challengfactory Beverley Hammond - https://www.linkedin.com/in/beverley-hammond-822a362/ Broken Heart Love Affair - http://www.brokenheartloveaffair.com Kelly Peters - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ikellypeters/ BeWorks - https://beworks.com Dan Ariely - http://danariely.com https://twitter.com/danariely Caroline Paxton - https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinedpaxton/ Lori Darlington - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-darlington/ Future Launch - https://www.rbc.com/dms/enterprise/futurelaunch/index.html RBC Business page – https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/index.html RBC COVID-19 Financial Relief page - https://www.rbc.com/covid-19/business.html Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://tonychapmanreactions.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/

Paul Hemburrow and his partner find the capital to purchase a profitable business that rents TV sets to patients in hospitals. The partners rebrand as HealthHubSolutions.ca and reinvent the entire company by turning the TV into a digital hub, offering a suite of tools for the patient that gives them access, connectivity, and control while making it easier for the hospital to provide better care. Paul spends over a year trying to convince hospitals they can be more than just renters of boxes, and finally has the client breakthrough needed to validate their offering. COVID-19 arrives, and any hope of selling the future is put on hold, as everyone in healthcare is consumed by surviving the day. HealthHub knows that putting the future of healthcare in the patient's hands is a win for everyone, but they are running out of time and money. We step in with expert advice. Small Business Matters series, presented by RBC. New partners, a new business (02:12) Pauls' attempts to pivot the existing business, fails. Seeking a new partner and an investment firm with an appreciation for his vision, the first step is taken to putting patients at the centre of healthcare - HeatlhHub solutions is born. Shifting gears (04:37) With the purchase of Hospitality Network under their belt, the team reorganizes and repositions a legacy business to move beyond renting TV's to one that uses digital technologies to create a compelling patient experience. However, the road to success is long and hard-fought. Breaking out (08:07) After a tough year of selling, HealthHub Solutions wins an innovative procurement RFP with Southlake Regional Healthcare Centre (https://southlake.ca). A corner is turned, establishing their solution as a reference point in the industry. COVID-19 hits, now what? (10:33) Managing cashflow, navigation the federal government support programs and the uncertainty of when this will all end weighs heavy on the business. However, "…managing the whole isolation component has quickly emerged as our new trend." The experts weigh in (14:46) "We really are all in this together." Laura Davy & Sid Paquette @RMB, encourages businesses to tell their story, be forthright and avoid any surprises. Strategy expert, David Kincaid, confirms Pauls' value proposition and Dr. Trung Ngo suggests mastering the basics, enabling Paul to navigate future challenges to increase his chances of success. Tony's final thoughts (24:17) Focussing on the narrative, understanding who you are and why you matter. By continuing to enable patients to connect, you can bring them certainty and control. "Nobody wants to walk into a hospital. Nobody wants to stay there. But if you can bring them connectivity, you can bring them certainty and control." Links and References Paul Hemburrow - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-hemburrow-4aa11932/ Health Hub Solutions - https://healthhubsolutions.ca/myhealthhub/ Trung Ngo - https://www.linkedin.com/in/trung-ngo-244a2530/ Novah Health - http://www.novahhealthcare.ca David Kincaid - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-kincaid-125b851/ Level5 Strategy - www.level5strategy.com Laura Davy - https://ca.linkedin.com/in/laura-davy-cpa-ca-b015401 Sid Paquette - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sidpaquette/ RBC Business page – https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/index.html RBC COVID-19 Financial Relief page - https://www.rbc.com/covid-19/business.html Future Launch - https://www.rbc.com/dms/enterprise/futurelaunch/index.html Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://tonychapmanreactions.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/

Traci Shepheard's lifelong dream was to be an entrepreneur building a health and wellness business. She had hundreds of ideas, but nothing caught her imagination more than a mobile meditation studio. She did her homework, received immediate acceptance with some of Canada's largest businesses, and invested her life savings, including the purchase and retrofitting of an Airstream Trailer to create a 'rock star' experience. MeditationWorks launched. As she starts the ignition, her wheels fall off when COVID-19 stops everything in their tracks, especially a studio where people meditate inside a trailer, even one as beautiful as Traci's. Listen to how Traci manages her stress, and how she reacts to the advice from some of Canada's leading thinkers. Insights, Ideas, and Inspiration for all. Small Business Matters series, presented by RBC. The journey to entrepreneurship (01:16) Traci shares her story of how MeditationWorks (https://meditationworks.com) came to be. Leaving a promising career she invests her life savings in a mobile mediation studio. From a stable career, Traci enters the uncertain world of an entrepreneur, forging ahead to build her dream business - a mobile mediation studio in an Airstream trailer (https://www.airstream.com). COVID-19 tests Traci's resolve (08:17) Having recently confirming plans to pilot her business with major Canadian corporations, COVID-19 hits, putting the brakes on Traci's dreams and business "…I felt like the entire jungle showed up in my head." Not to be dissuaded, Traci pivots and shifts gears to meet this challenge head-on. The experts share their advice (11:45) Denise Rossetto, hones in on Traci's brand and purpose - the rock star experience. Corby Fine provide valuable insights into how Traci can monetize her digital experience. Denise, from @RBC acknowledges Traci's passion and her proactivity in engaging with her partner businesses during a time of crisis and provides guidance as to where she can get additional support. Tony's final thoughts (20:35) Closing this episode, Tony shares his confidence in Traci's idea. An idea matched with great passion and her desire fulfil a higher purpose - to help the emotional and physical health and well-being of Canadians everywhere. Links and References MeditationWorks - https://meditationworks.com Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/traci-shepheard-33844342/ Instagram: @MeditationWorks Forty Four North - https://fortyfournorth.ca Airstream - https://www.airstream.com Denise Rossetto - https://www.linkedin.com/in/denise-rossetto-9a0a422b/ Brokenheartloveaffair - http://www.brokenheartloveaffair.com Corby Fine - http://www.linkedin.com/in/corbyfine Lori Darlington - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-darlington/ RBC Business page – https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/business/index.html RBC COVID-19 Financial Relief page - https://www.rbc.com/covid-19/business.html Future Launch - https://www.rbc.com/dms/enterprise/futurelaunch/index.html Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://tonychapmanreactions.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/

When Cirque de Soleil files for bankruptcy protection you realize how fast the sun has set on the event business. To find out what it will take to stage a comeback I chat with brothers David and Stephen Shaw , who are Canadian born, and have become global thought leaders in different segments of the event business. David Shaw is the Senior Vice President, International and Content at UFC. David talks about the importance of being first. Stephen Shaw is the co-founder of Round Room, his resume includes producing for the Rolling Stones, Oprah, Broadway Productions and major touring exhibits like Jurassic Park. Stephen talks about how the concept of immersive experiences will change because of COVID and through technology. In this exclusive I chat with the Shaw Brothers about their upbringing, I seek their insights into the world of entertainment and putting smiles on people's faces, and ideas on how Canada can stop the drain of talent like these two. What advice can you give parents to kind of bring up and raise the kids? (01:07) - Kids need to understand the value of the dollar and the value of hard work - Respect and not only respect for your contemporaries and your peers, but respect for people of all ages, races and ethnicities What is considered exceptional in the experience economy? (02:29) - Creating a balance between your audience, the content and accessibility - Incorporating experiences that appeal to your fans, both the hardcore and casual fans - Diversifying the content experience with traditional elements and immersive experiences - Accessibility is key, providing multiple customer journeys that appeal across all age groups and geographic markets How David scaled the UFC brand (03:30) - Be first is a key maxim that drives the brand forward. A decade ago UFC was one of the sports franchises to live stream live events, on Facebook. - Unable to secure favourable pay-per-view deals, they adopted social media to connect with their audience and disseminate information and to market their product. - They created a sports product that transcends language, it transcends borders and geography and it transcends ethnicity and religion. The role technology will play in the future of entertainment (04:50) - Technology enables the UFC to connect their product with a customer, wherever they are via whatever medium or platform they wish, be it satellite, cable, Facebook, etc - VR and AR has heightened the content experience and online ticketing has enabled greater accessibility How will the experience economy come back from the COVID pandemic? (06:27) - Until there is a vaccine it will be a long road to recovery - A slue of strict health and safety protocols and measure will be implemented - One needs to look to new revenue streams, particularly in digital media - Develop new sponsorship assets To watch, listen, and read more go to https://chatterthatmatters.ca and don't forget to subscribe to my Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcGvzmw9MFkUcGylrFA2xCQ/?sub_confirmation=1 Links and References Stephen Shaw, Founder, Round Room Live https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-shaw-98170019/ Website - https://roundroomlive.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/roundroomlive/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/round_room_live/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/RoundRoomLive @RoundRoomLive LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/round-room-live/ https://www.billboard.com/articles/business/8260897/entertainment-one-acquires-round-room-entertainment-exclusive David Shaw, SVP International and Content, UFC https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-shaw-47393228/ Website - https://www.ufc.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/UFCCanada/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/ufc_ca Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ufc/ https://mmajunkie.usatoday.com/2019/04/ufc-exec-david-shaw-respectfully-disagrees-with-khabib-nurmagomedovs-criticism-of-ufc-st-petersburg Follow Tony Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chatterthatmatters/ #ChatterThatMatters # ExperienceEconomy #UFC #Entrepreneur #Canada #CanadianEconomy #Technology #Content #DigitalMedia #Sports #Entertainment

In this episode, I chat with John Ruffolo, Founder, OMERS Ventures and Co-Founder - Council of Canadian Innovators. John Ruffolo name is synonymous with possibilities and the new economy. I first met John when I moderated a panel in support of our mutual friend Chitra Anand and her incredible book the Greenhouse Approach John was the CEO of OMERS Ventures. Today John is the co-founder and Vice-Chair of the Council of Canadian Innovators | Conseil Canadien des Innovateurs, on the Board of Communitech, Ontario Centres of Excellence The Next Big Thing and Vice-Chair of the David Suzuki Foundation. John's opinions are sought across the for-profit, and public sectors. I am a massive fan of John's brain, his passion for Canada, and the fact that he pulls no punches. He tells it like it is. In this ten minute chat, John and I talk about a Post-COVID economy and who will be the winners, education, innovation, and what will it take to set this incredible country Canada, up for future success. Will this finally be the time that Canada is defined by a new economy? (00:40) John believes that COVID's impact is doing two fundamental things to the Canadian economy One, it's exposing the vulnerabilities in our economy and how we interact with one, another Two, we see a rapid acceleration in the adoption of innovation and trends Status quo or back to the old days? (01:33) Flexibility is going to be absolutely critical, but the answer is it's somewhere in the middle John quotes, Satya Nadella, CEO at Microsoft, "don't exchange one dogma for another dogma" Could healthcare become a major part of the Canadian Economy? (02:30) John has no doubt it could, however, not with our current paradigm can we continue to afford our great health care system The digital delivery of the healthcare services is absolutely fundamental and it's been adopted already Not only are people in hi-density areas like Toronto, but also those in remote areas are now able to access high-quality care The role of small businesses in the gig economy (03:54) Small businesses are at the heart of the Canadian economy and if they collapse it creates a cascading effect and you will see a collapse in the demand for services, thus the advice was given to the government to focus on them as opposed to larger companies Small businesses play an increasingly critical role, as we transition more and more to a gig economy How can technology help entrepreneurs get to where they need to go (05:39) Technology is, unfortunately, a double-edged sword, that for every innovation we enjoy, there has been a continuing shift for the replacement of human labour with machine labour. The change has not happened quickly, however, with COVID, it has somewhat accelerated this shift The challenge will be moving from employee to entrepreneurship and having to retrain oneself Becoming tech-savvy will be fundamental and technology will play a key role in retraining to be so Key things entrepreneurs need to think about when entering into this gig economy (07:21) Opportunities can be found in the vulnerabilities COVID has in our food supply chain, our critical supply chain for manufacturing, delivery of education and health care. As consumers change their habits and behaviours, so to can entrepreneurs to take advantage of these changes. Links and References John Ruffolo - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joruffolo/ Chitra Anand - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chitraanand/ Greenhouse Approach - http://chitraanand.com/greenhouse-approach/ OMERS Ventures - https://www.linkedin.com/company/omers-ventures/ Council of Canadian Innovators | Conseil Canadien des Innovateurs - https://www.linkedin.com/company/council-of-canadian-innovators/ Ontario Centres of Excellence - https://www.linkedin.com/company/ontario-centres-of-excellence/ The Next Big Thing - https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-next-big-thing--/ Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://chatterthatmatters.ca Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chatterthatmatters/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Chatter-that-Matters-111890333544575 Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcGvzmw9MFkUcGylrFA2xCQ

The forces of change are rendering much of what we know of business obsolete. Automation, e-commerce, the Amazon effect, increasing bureaucracy and all of this combining with customers wanting more and less. Wanting more personalized solutions, more what matters to them but also want all this with less friction, less effort, and less cost. And then the Covid-19 shows up like a sledgehammer. So what do you do? You have two choices. You either make things happen, reinvent/reimagine your business or sit on the sidelines wondering what happened. In this episode, Tony Chapman interviews John Bezear, president of Powerhouse Retail Services (PRS), servicing the apparel and garment industry in Canada. John shares how he proactively adapted PRS and found opportunity despite the immense challenges. Finding your niche (03:35) Despite the ever-increasing growth of e-commerce and its ensuing impact on traditional retail, John shares what sets Powerhouse Retails Services' apart from their competition - passion, consistent execution, vigour and technology. The Pivot (05:39) After exceptional growth, Coronavirus now presents PRS with a significant challenge. However, responding swiftly and proactively, the business pivots to now store and ship medical supplies to frontline health care workers in Canada. Changing Priorities (09:29) A leader during these uncertain times faces many competing priorities. Tony and John explore these priorities and some of the tactics John and his team have employed. During these times it's crucial to inject a personal touch, act with honesty, transparency and to over-communicate. Proactivity - facing up to the reality (12:32) Controlling what is in your power and looking at the situation for what it is - not waiting for things to happen, but rather engaging with key stakeholders with a clear and responsible plan. Tony shares his experience of managing his advertising business during an extremely tough time. Lessons learnt (19:01) During this unprecedented time, lessons have been learnt that can be applied to how we run our businesses in future - John gives his perspective: hedging against risk, seeking to diversify but keeping to your core competencies, considering a balanced portfolio of clients, and as a leader being disciplined and proactive, keeping calm and communicating clearly. Closing (26:42) Tony Chapman shares his insights and learnings: - The importance of scenario planning during times of uncertainty, enabling one to adapt and course correct when required - Making your employees the heroes of the story and acting with humility - Staying calm, being in the moment and keeping focussed Links and References Powerhouse Retail Services - http://powerhouseretailservices.co Apollo 13 - https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0112384/?ref_=nv_sr_srsg_0 Levi - https://www.levi.com Tommy Hilfiger - https://global.tommy.com Calvin Klein - https://www.calvinklein.com Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://tonychapmanreactions.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/

The Coronavirus has presented Canadian businesses with unprecedented challenges. There is no compass for these uncharted waters. New approaches to customer, supplier and employee engagement require consideration and businesses underlying "operating systems" need to be updated and re-written. In this episode, Tony Chapman a luminary of Canada' Marketing Hall of Legends (2008) discusses these challenges with two fellow CMHOL Legend inductees, David Kincaid (2013) and Ken Wong (2006). Together they explore effective leadership through adversity and possible solutions Canadian businesses, in particular small businesses, need to consider as they manage through these uncertain times. Organizational culture during Coronavirus (03:18) During these unprecedented times, organizations are afforded an opportunity to step back and reappraise their cultures. David shares his points of view on culture as a driver for business transformation - "..culture acts as an enabler to creating competitive advantage." Recovery - big box vs small business (06:52) Ken believes price will be the key lever for large enterprises in their recovery strategies. However, small to medium businesses can't compete on this basis and need to find what's in their wheelhouse. During this time it will be clear which businesses have true relationships with their customers. CEO's challenges (09:21) CEO's are facing numerous challenges in this environment. Maintaining profit, managing costs, narrowing their focus on what matters most, and doing enough to preserve today so when the times come they can rebuild. Ken and David share their insights and advise to CEO's - take the time to plan & widen your focus. Advice for small/medium business (13:45) Truly understand what business you are in and identify what problem you will solve for your customers. Engaging with suppliers, key customers and local business associations to be part of the conversation is also key to addressing these challenges. David highlights the potential impact of e-commerce could have on small business. Advice to leaders (18:54) During these trying and uncertain times, what level of transparency is required from leaders? The panel provides their guidance highlighting the need to engage frontline staff - as they influence customer satisfaction - and engaging with team members at all levels to understand how things have changed and how this has impacted customers motivations. Getting your house in order (22:23) Creating a safe environment for consumers through rigours sanitation protocols and communicating this to your consumers is critical to establishing trust with your consumers. Communicate, communicate, communicate! Closing (25:21) Tony Chapman shares his insights and learnings: - Know what business you're actually in, where you add value and why you matter. - Understanding what lane you are in - focus on the things you can stand for - Communication and transparency is critical when you're dealing with customers, employees and suppliers - we're all in this together Links and References Ken Wong - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-wong-4453892 David Kincaid - https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-kincaid-125b851 CMHOL - https://www.amamarketinghalloflegends.ca AMA Toronto - https://www.ama-toronto.com/ Zellers - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zellers Galen Weston - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galen_Weston Loblaws - https://www.loblaws.ca Harvard Business Review - https://hbr.org Costco - https://www.costco.ca Tom Peters - https://tompeters.com Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://tonychapmanreactions.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/ About Canada's Marketing Hall of Legends (CMHOL) Founded in 2004, Canada's Marketing Hall of Legends honours Canadians who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of excellence in the field of marketing. The award, created to spotlight the stories, people and brands behind Canada's greatest marketing successes, recognizes a noteworthy body of work and a lifetime of achievements. Nominations for induction are held annually. An independent selection committee of top marketing professionals evaluates each year's list of nominees. Contact: Xzavier - [email protected] About AMA Toronto The Toronto Chapter of the American Marketing Association (AMA) is a not-for-profit community of volunteer marketers who have been creating opportunities for personal and business growth for more than 60 years in Canada. The AMA, with more than 20,000 members and 70 chapters across North America, is the largest marketing association in the world serving organizations and individuals who practice, teach and study marketing. To learn more about the Toronto chapter of the AMA visit AMA-Toronto.com

It's the decade of disruption. What we know and understand about education, healthcare, consumerism and capitalism, is being rendered obsolete by forces of change so numerous, swift and impactful, it's sometimes hard to keep up. Artificial intelligence, the platform economy, new digital business models, etc. How do we make sense of this all? In conversation with Corby Fine, I discuss the influences and implications that technology will have on humanity, exploring our future role as a society and individuals identifying some of the key technologies driving this change. Technology with purpose (2:20) Corby, a Ryerson University graduate with an MBA in technology management (Phoenix), shares his passion for technology and his journey from selling viagra to running a digital bank brand. Culture - it the cheapest thing to change (4:49) Cory shares his thoughts and experiences on culture underpinned by the idea that "culture is the cheapest thing to change." Listening to others opinions, being empowered to do what's right and not what's expedient, taking a long term view and focussing more on people than technology. The new-age businesses model (9:14) Exploring the challenges legacy businesses face in an age where the business model has fundamentally shifted. A more agile and responsive business model prevails, with those organizations adopting the new model benefiting not only from cost savings but also from simplifying the experience customers have with them. The platform economy (11:16) Data-driven applications and services, requiring less effort and reducing transactional friction is giving consumers unprecedented power. Customer loyalty is up for grabs and the question begs: who owns the customer? Cory and Tony discuss the risks and pitfalls of this new economy - immediate gratification, data predictive modelling and personalization. Fair exchange of value (15:18) When we part with our data, can there be a fair exchange of value between the individual and the enterprise? Cory explains how fair value can be achieved, as an individual and as an organization that builds products and experiences for customers. Data changes the face of democracy (17:18) Balancing the drive for innovation against the need to act responsibly. We learn more about Corbys guiding rules he applies to his and his teams' efforts in developing products, acting with empathy and compassion while still innovating. Advice to others & looking forward (21:32) In your career journey, seek diversity. Diversity of thought, experience, opportunity, jobs, function and bosses. Seek out your passions and figure out what can you do to learn about them - be inquisitive. Conversational interfaces are the next big technological transformation, inherent with ethical challenges and more practical implications for brands. Closing (28:03) Tony Chapman shares his insights and learnings: - Put the customer first. Understand their journey and how you can help them get to their destination - Create a culture where risk-taking is encouraged - Show some humanity, "use their name" Links and References Softbank - https://www.softbank.jp/en/ Uber - https://www.uber.com/ca/en/ Uber Eats - https://www.ubereats.com/ca Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://tonychapmanreactions.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/

Are we real with climate change? Are we separating fact from fiction, hearing arguments from both sides for a balanced opinion on climate change? Should the claims of climate catastrophe be believed and taxed? In this episode, I interview Tom Beakbane, a scientist by training, an entrepreneur by choice. Tom is a family man, loves the outdoors, and a leading brand strategist. Tom put his reputation on the line to create a platform called www.climaterealismcanada.ca to add his voice to a global roar that is challenging the narrative of climate catastrophists. Tom is putting forth an alternate point of view on climate change, which he is basing on climate science and what's required to address these challenges in Canada. His comments on carbon and carbon tax are worth the price of listening alone. From science to branding (3:19) Tom's journey from his studies in the UK to building a diverse career in Canada. Combining his science-based academic background with writing skills and his love for painting, Tom enters the world of packaged goods and brand communications. Tony and Tom's paths soon cross. https://climaterealismcanada.ca/climatescience_no/ To climate change (6:13) After one of his annual backcountry ski trips in the Rocky Mountains, Toms journey into the realm of climate change and climate science begins. A self-described "unlikely candidate", and initially dismissive, his interest increases as he realizes that the medias headlines were not representative of what real scientists were thinking. https://climaterealismcanada.ca/reality-not-propaganda/ Climate realism (13:18) With the launch of www.climaterealismcanada.ca, a stand is taken against Canadas' climate change propaganda. Tom realizes that Canada has no real plan to balance the needs for energy development, consumption and climate change. Taxing consumers and industries is not the answer - it certainly doesn't spur on innovation to develop alternate forms of energy. The truth about carbon dioxide (16:50) Tom explains how Al Gores documentary "An Inconvenient Truth" has influenced climate change science and how carbon dioxide was hijacked for convenience. There is no catastrophe - the forecasts were wrong - and we have many more environmental issues to deal with aside from carbon dioxide. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/An_Inconvenient_Truth https://climaterealismcanada.ca/reduce-pollution/ A climate catastrophe. Really? (25:02) We will not be burning up in 20-30yrs time says, Tom. There is no credible evidence or scientist that supports the climate catastrophe position. We need policies that are beneficial to both the environment and Canadians and we need to teach our kids not to be afraid of the future. https://climaterealismcanada.ca/no-climate-emergency/ Fossil fuel - changing the narrative (29:04) If we are going to replace fossil fuel, Canadians will need real and viable alternatives. We need adult conversations, not panic. Conversations not only about the science of climate change but also about the intersection of energy and environmental policy. https://climaterealismcanada.ca/policy/ How can you help? (31:58) - Be informed. Learn, question and understand the issues and science of climate change - Push back on the climate catastrophists - Don't be hypocritical Closing (33:50) Tony Chapman shares his insights and learnings: - Open your mind to other peoples opinions - Listen generously, be curious and form your own opinions - Have the courage of your conviction - Fight your way to the middle ground Links and References Climate Realism Canada - https://climaterealismcanada.ca/ Follow Climate Realism on Twitter - https://twitter.com/CanadaRealism Follow Climate Realism on Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Climate-Realism-Canada-111968553644836/ European Climate Realist Network - https://ecr.network An Inconvenient Truth https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/An_Inconvenient_Truth Al Gore - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Al_Gore Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) - https://www.ipcc.ch Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://tonychapmanreactions.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/

Hugh Evans -Changing Humanity, One Global Citizen at a time Hugh Evans has two life changing experiences as a teenager, and embarks on a quest to eradicate global poverty. On his journey he meets people like Bill Gates, Sumner Redstone, Oprah and hundred more people of influence and intellectual capacity. This is Hugh's story but not once does he make it about himself, or even Global Citizen the organization he leads. He makes it about human. It's inspiring and insightful, and if you have a chance, listen to it with your children. Impossible is always possible, and Hugh's advice of 'one day more' is one we can all benefit from.

Healthcare is at a crisis point. An aging population that is demanding more and less. More life and longevity, with less friction and wait times, and a time when the health sector is straining to do more with less. Add to this pressure new viruses, superbugs, and climate chain and the essential question is about sustainability. The only path forward is to reimagine and reinvent the sector. Can it be done? Paul Hemburrow, one of the founders of HealthHub thinks so if all parties are willing to make the patient the hero, and their quest to get healthy the focal point.

I first met Joe Jackman 25 years ago. He impressed me then like he continues to impress me now. He has led, from a strategic, creative and human viewpoint, the reinvention of some of the world's leading brands. He has passion, personality, persuasion and persona. In this podcast we talk about his extraordinary career and his new book, The Reinventionist Mindset, which I recommend to anyone who wants to roar into the 2020's.

A brand new decade should include a brand new you. In 3 months you can dramatically improve your mind and body to prevent disease, and slowing down your ageing process. You will look and feel much younger. You will improve your energy and sex drive and counter years of partying. No pills or magic bullets. In this podcast learn how you are a bitch to the food that strips you of minerals, inflames your body, compromises food absorption, and decreases your circulation. Learn the difference between deficiency, sufficiency and toxicity. Focus on just three things to let you race on a path to a much healthier you. And after listening to this podcast, my bet is you put aside your pencil to write New Year's resolutions and instead reach for a tape measure. The final segment in my conversation with the extraordinary Gunn Sikk. 30 minutes to improve your next 30 years. Please comment, share and let us know what you think.

In part two of my three-part podcast with Gunn Sikk on your health, we talk about the popular Netflix documentary, The Game Changers, presented by #JamesCameron, #ArnoldSchwarzenegger, #JackieChan, #LewisHamilton, #NovakDjokovic, and #ChrisPaul. The Game Changers showcases the significant performance advantages that happen when someone switches to a plant-based diet. I asked Gunn if he feels this movie is more fact or fiction and how he feels about a plant-based diet? His answers might surprise you. If you didn't tune in last week, let me state my personal belief that Gunn Sikk is one of the smartest people I have ever met. He has devoted his life to understanding the human body and why our health and ability to prevent disease, live to our fullest and slow down our internal aging clock is based in large part in what we consume. Gunn has a brain where he can combine his hypothesis with synthesis from thousands of studies that he has read to draw conclusions and to lay out a path that all can follow.

Gunn Sikk is one of the smartest people I have ever met. Articulate, passionate and consumed by the human body, our chemistry and our biology. Gunn agreed to do a three-part Chatter that Matters podcast with me. His advice is simple, there is no voodoo or superfood, just smart advice. It's worth your and your families time and health to listen. I ask Gunn questions like: Can you slow down your internal aging clock? Be the person that looks 20 years younger? Improve your brain, increase your energy and sex drive? Cure versus mask disease with medicine? Is our tap water healthy? Meat? Plant-based diets? Is the movie Game Changers fact or fiction? Gunn Sikk works with world-renowned individuals, leaders, celebrities and athletes. Gunn's belief is that we are mostly' We are what we eat'. Genetics only play a small part in how we live and how long we live. Episode one: click - https://lnkd.in/d3u6ZbR or subscribe to Chatter that Matters wherever you get your podcasts. Part 2 and 3, will arrive the following Tuesday's. Eat well. Be well. Listen Well, Share and Subscribe.

Will there ever be homes for the homeless? Will the marginalized always be outside the margins? Tough but essential questions as we are all one society. In today's podcast, I interview Rudy Ruttimann, Co-founder and Executive Director of Sketch Working Arts. SKETCH enables Toronto's homeless and marginalized youth, aged 16 to 29, to pursue art, music, dance, woodworking, digital media, leadership, culinary arts and so much more. SKETCH isn't a shelter; it's a place to learn practical skills that lead to self-sufficiency and build agency and self-worth. This podcast isn't about impossibilities; it's about possibilities: building self-esteem, confidence, and conviction. Being accountable and making your path in life a matter of choice, not chance. Rudy offers some extraordinary insights and lessons that not only apply to the marginalized but to all of us as individuals, as Parents, Leaders and, as Human Beings.

The Experience Economy is growing while the Materialistic is Stalling. How do you compete when what you offer - a service or experience, is less tangible than a product? This week on #ChatterthatMatter, Tony Chapman dives into the tourism sector to make his case for 'it's not what you offer but why you matter' The podcast travels back to the birth of tourism, to the present to provide insights and ideas that can apply to anyone in the services sector. If you like this you can also go to two other podcasts that show the path to differentiation. Are you Starving for Attention and Have you ever stepped inside someone else's shoes? Tourism represents 10% of the world GDP and 10% of the employment, so there is a lot to learn that can be applied to the services economy. How did this industry get so big? Why is it of such importance locally and globally? How do you attract the attention of customers and employees? How do personal experiences created through insights on what the customer values fuel your #marketing, #selling, #culture and overall #operations? Why does all of the above apply to anyone competing in the Experience economy?

Will a robot take away your job? What is the future of work? These are two of the essential questions that I ask Angela Donnelly, founder of Corethentic. I admire Angela immensely for her point of view on the future of work. Angela is a freshly minted Canadian, who immigrated from South Africa two years ago. Her knapsack is overflowing with experience working in human capital for leading financial services institutions and with Schuitema Group, a global consultancy dedicated to the enhancement and achievement of human excellence. I have interviewed Angela on the radio, seen her wow audiences from the stage and in workshops. She is articulate, passionate, positive, and practical. What she says in this podcast are worth everyone's ears as they involve both life and livelihood. Angela believes that this is the time to unleash the power, potential, and passion of human beings. However, it takes authentic leaders who give more than than they get, an environment conditioned to bring out excellence with individuals and teams, and an intent that achieves profit through a higher purpose. If you are a leader in business or life or have aspirations to be one if you are an employee who feels marginalized or an employee resource harnessed only for an outcome, you will get so much from the wisdom Angela shares. I am so impressed with her thinking I have invited Angela Donnelly to be a recurring guest.

Have you ever gone through, or are you contemplating a career transformation? Is this planned, or because of your circumstances, that changed abruptly? If so, this episode of Chatter that Matters is a must-listen. I interview a Canadian hero who is tackling two societal problems - hunger and waste. Jean-François Archambault left a promising career to pursue a higher purpose. To recover the tons of food wasted in hotels and restaurants to feed the homeless and people in need. His idea and the not for profit he founded, La Tablée des Chefs, has fed millions of people, taught food preparation and nutrition to people who have to make the most out of their food budget. Jean-François shares his story and what motivated him to pursue an entirely different path. His humility, insights, and passion will be an inspiration for anyone looking to or having to transform their life and livelihood. #notforprofit #tacklehunger #sustainability #foodwaste #MontrealCanadiens #LaTabléedesChefs #Quebec #nutrition #foodwaste #JeanFrançoisArchambault #chatterthatmatters #keynote #notforprofit #makethingshappen #hero

Great leaders are rare, but those who identify and define a new sector are often rarified. For example, Edison with Electricity, Ford in Automotive, Mary Kay with Beauty, Oprah with media, Jobs with consumer electronics, and Bezos with e-commerce made their unique mark but shared common traits. They have vision, curiosity, instinct, and they pursue their dreams with passion and persuasion. One of these individuals is Bruce Linton, the Founder and former CEO of Canopy Growth. Bruce witnesses how some countries were legalizing medical cannabis, and he listened carefully to the whispers of others who were looking at legalizing recreational marijuana. He determined that if this were to happen, it would be the opportunity of his lifetime and for Canada. His vision was to build, from scratch, the dominant global player in this space. To do so, Bruce Linton had to attract the capital and talent that could fuel his ambitions. His challenge to both was that cannabis had a stigma, whispers are not a guarantee, and in the USA, it is a Schedule 3 narcotic, with all the legal and banking implications that carry with it. We all know what Bruce Linton accomplished but what this episode of Chatter that Matter we focus on the individual, his mindset, his ability to make mission-critical decisions and to lead a company and a sector. We also learn the value he places on purpose and culture over profit, and why he embraces versus fears the path less trampled. And for anyone investing in this space, we also learn what Bruce is up to next.

Have you ever wondered how some people manage to do it all? In this week's episode of Chatter that Matters I interview Mary DePaoli, one of Canada's leading Executives. As an interviewer, I have an advantage as I have known and been in awe of this extraordinary human being for over a decade. Mary puts her family first, gives back to her community and humanity, and has a career that includes serving Lemon Chicken to Larry King, when working at #CNN as an intern, to today where she is the Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of #RBC, one of the world's leading banks. Learn how Mary DePaoli values people, invests in preparation, and prioritizes her time to not only manage to do it all but to matter too so many.

We all have a finite amount of time but many treat it as infinite. A resource that can be easily be surrendered even squandered until life passes you by. What if you knew how much time you had left. Would you value it differently? Of course you would. In this weeks podcast I share my thoughts on how you can get a better return on your time invested. The average life for someone in North America is 27,375 days. To find out how much time you have left if take your age and multiply it by 365. Then, subtract it from 27,375 days. As Aliza Licht stated, 'Life isn't a dress rehearsal'.

In this age of noise, where too much and too many are chasing a finite amount of time and money, you have to know how to sell. This podcast will teach you 'the' strategy for how to engage and persuade any audience. You can use it when interviewing for a job, raising capital, marketing or selling a product or service, leadership and even parenting. I know as I have successfully applied it in my career for over three decades.

In this episode of Chatter that Matters I return to my childhood. It's a cold night in Montreal, our only light is a streetlamp and our only prop is a ball hockey net. This was all I needed to transform Into the legendary Montreal Canadiens hockey player Guy Lafleur. With only seconds remaining on the clock, I would bear down on the Goalie, with the future of my teams Stanley Cup Run on my stick. I use this memory, and references to people like Tom Petty, to illustrate the power and potential of looking at problems and opportunities from the other person's point of view. Learn how this can become your advantage when collaborating, creating, engaging, and selling.

Competition will intensify and the next generation will need the mental fortitude to mange change. To make decisions. To learn how to pivot and find their way. In this 5 min episode of Chatter that Matters I ask whether we are doing too much for our children? Chauffeurs, personal assistants, their ATM machine and project coordinator. To make my point, I go back in time to my childhood and a year where going 'back to school' became an emotional roller coaster with no end in site. What I learned that year helped me deal with the many speed bumps and twists and turns called life. It was tough love but it toughened me. Give it a listen, share your stories as I might return to this in a future podcast. Thanks, Tony #podcast #chatterthatmatters #parent #helicopterparent #change #changemanagement #lessonsinlife #linkedin #linkedinbusiness #children #teaching #parenting #lifelessons #leadership #empowerment #podcasthost #keynote #commentator

Have you felt the vibrations? The tremors that are hitting every corner of our marketplace. In this episode of Chatter that Matters, Tony Chapman, takes you on a quest to uncover a new economy that is happening with such force it is rendering much of what we know about conventional capitalism and career building, obsolete. Players in this economy include Amazon, Alibaba, airbnb, Apple, Google, Facebook, Uber, Skip the Dishes, Facebook, Spotify and thousands more. They now have a combined market capitalization of $7.5 trillion dollars. Many ride an app like a Trojan Horse directly into your phone to connect you directly with the world you want to explore and buy. They harvest your data to enable them to focus on the two most compelling customer benefits that matter - more and less. More of what matters to you with less of what doesn't. However, with every cause there is an equal reaction and the platform economy is no exception. Tony shares his feelings on why much of what we take for granted and appreciate will become the exception versus the rule as the platform economy builds over the old. To learn more about the platform economy here is a link to Tony's keynote - From a Place to Buy to the Place to Be that he delivered at Store 2019 for the Retail Council of Canada. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIUuH0eSJIM&pbjreload=10 To read an article about how conventional retail, tourism and hospitality can counter the platform economy. Click here. https://www.retailcouncil.org/community/technology/mind-your-ps-but-own-your-bes-how-bricks-can-beat-back-clicks/ Retail Council of Canada - https://www.retailcouncil.org/ Platform Economy - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Platform_economy Platform Economy - https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/digital-mckinsey/our-insights/the-platform-play-how-to-operate-like-a-tech-company Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/

What does Boston Bib Lettuce, and a fixed price all you can eat buffet have to do with our upcoming elections? In this episode of Chatter that Matters, Tony looks at each parties campaign slogan and platform by comparing it to a buffet line, with endless promises, but many without substance. He challenges the Liberal parties slogan #ChooseForward and whether it is any different than the Conservatives #GetAhead. He calls them both Boston Bib Lettuce that lack differentiation, plate appeal or bite. He looks at each #JustinTrudeau, #AndrewScheer etc, persona. Tony then goes on a rant to describe how each party hopes to entice you but why this years food fight will shift from mass media to social media. He encourages us all to think about three things before voting, and to put collective ahead of self interests. Its the type of fresh thinking you get when someone isn't tethered to the purse strings of any party.

Our world is now within 'arm and voice' reach of desire. We can summon almost any product or service to our doorstep, and often within hours. The benefit is almost immediate gratification, but it can come with a huge price, a matter of life and death. Amazon and other ecommerce delivery drivers have been accused of running red lights and stops signs just to make up time. In some cases they've been blamed for injuries and even fatalities - when pedestrians get in their way. CBS News tells the story of two dramatic cases in Chicago - one involved serious injuries; the other resulted in the death of an 84 year old woman. In that case, criminal charges were brought against an Amazon delivery driver and ended with an acquittal. Should we be looking beyond self-gratification or is the value we place on convenience both priceless and potentially lifeless? Follow Tony Chapman Website - https://tonychapmanreactions.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/TonyChapman Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonychapmanreactions/

My very first podcast, complete with the signature drums that would power the next 212. In this five minute episode I share why Attention is the Oxygen of Marketing, and how to get the attention you deserve as a Leaders, Marketer, in Sales, or as a Mentor, Parent and Coach.