Between Two Dots: Recent Episodes
Between Two Dots
The title "Between Two Dots" is meant to describe the time between when we are born and when we perish. Our hope is to share insights and learnings from our guests, who we are inspired by and who are living life on their terms - with purpose and impact as their North Star. Hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong.
As the Co-Founder and CEO of Village Wellth, Robert Irwin is transforming business acquisition financing by empowering entrepreneurs and creating access to business ownership through innovation. With 17 years of experience in solving financial challenges, he's passionate about using technology to bring transparency and creativity to a traditionally closed industry. At Village Wealth, Robert leads a platform that supports buyers from deal discovery to closing, providing exclusive listings, tailored financings, and expert guidance. His mission is to streamline the acquisition process and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“Those solitude moments that people think are nothing are actually a lot of something.” – Robert Irwin
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Robert.
1:23 – Robert follows his adventurous spirit wherever it takes him.
7:42 – A walk through Whistler lit the path for Robert’s transition from ski bum to business owner.
15:22 – Robert learned an expensive lesson that launched his career in finance (and Hafiz inspired his journey without knowing it).
23:30 – Robert developed Village Wellth from the ashes of his previous business.
26:27 – What Village Wellth does, and how it thrives as a tech start-up.
32:28 – A message from our sponsors.
34:40 – Robert maintains a healthy work-life balance by prioritizing family time and getting outdoors.
39:26 – Robert's biggest learnings from his career.
47:13 – Robert's advice is to know what you want.
49:15 – How you can reach out to Robert and Village Wellth.
Connect with Robert and support his work:
www.villagewellth.com
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/robertirwin-villagewellth
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
David Schmeikal is a Creative Director, Creativity Coach, and Speaker on a mission to help more men unlock and embrace their creativity through life's inevitable transitions. He's here to remind you that not anyone can do what you can do, and not everyone sees the world like you see the world. Your point of view is needed more than you know, and the time to be unleashed into the world is now.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I wanted to embrace who I was as this curious person, and that commitment to personal development saved my marriage and enabled me to become a better father to my children” – David Schmeikal
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces David.
1:55 – David found himself when he came home to Calgary and started asking questions.
17:14 – David shed labels to find a new appreciation of himself, which helped him define his work.
31:28 – David decided his mission would be to help other people pursue their creative pursuits.
37:22 – A message from our sponsors.
39:44 – David’s advice to creative people looking for a way to put it all together.
46:24 – How David structures his creative consulting work with clients.
54:27 – How you can reach out to David.
Connect with David and support his work:
davidschmeikal.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/davidschmeikal
IG: @davidschmeikal
YT: www.youtube.com/c/DavidSchmeikal
X: @davidschmeikal
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Jana McDonald is an entrepreneurial CEO with a background in communications, negotiation, and corporate development. Her early career in the Oil and Gas industry stewarded her passion for integrating organizations from various sectors with the carbon markets. Beginning with carbon trading in early 2020, She identified the lack of carbon market integration for organizations within Canada. Since founding Guardyan Conservation, Jana has analyzed the feasibility of projects ranging from agriculture to transportation, to technology, renewable, solar, and land use, contributing to project financing, and executing on valuable off take agreements and end production, including power and carbon credits, in the ever evolving market which includes voluntary and compliant markets. She is a hands-on leader who continues to expand Guardyan's influence and client base throughout the development of highly integrated emissions reductions projects on a global scale.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I'm proud to be in this space because we do things differently here at Guardyan. I think that that does come down to the fact that we are female owned and led” – Jana McDonald
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Jana.
1:41 – Jana's life in Calgary in a big family with two strong-willed parents, and the tragedy that brought them closer.
4:37 – Two teachers who cared changed Jana's life for the better.
8:37 – Jana’s foray into the sales world led her to found Guardyan.
13:39 – Jana didn't believe she was a natural fit for entrepreneurship.
15:55 – How and why Jana founded Guardyan.
22:44 – A message from our sponsors.
25:09 – Jana's struggles as an entrepreneur have made her a better leader.
29:11 – Jana's wellness regime and family lessons.
34:10 – Jana is proud of her role in helping bring equality to the Oil and Gas industry.
40:15 – Jana’s fears and life purpose.
44:08 – How you can support Jana and Guardyan Conservation.
Connect with Jana and Guardyan Conservation, and support their work:
Jana LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/janamcdonald-janamcdonald
Guardyan Conservation: www.guardyanconservation.com
Guardyan Conservation LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/company/guardyan-conservation
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Musap “Moose” Abdel is a visionary leader, a two time entrepreneurial founder, and a community advocate. As the Founder and CEO of Struggle is Your Success, Moose has empowered over 200 plus BIPOC youth through empowering mentorship and entrepreneurship training. He is also the CEO of QA Enterprises, an AI startup developing cutting edge solutions through innovative app development. With a background in IT and a commitment to mental health advocacy, Moose is dedicated to making a positive impact on his community and inspiring the next generation of leaders. Most recently, Moose has been featured as an Innovator of the Week in Avenue Magazine.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“God gave me a second chance to do right. So I have a spiritual, emotional obligation to help my community” – Moose Abdel
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Moose.
1:53 – Moose persevered through his traumatic childhood to find his own freedom.
8:02 – A music industry opportunity presented new opportunities and challenges for Moose.
13:15 – A three-point shot and life-saving help from a friend led Moose to his calling.
18:40 – SIYS is an expression of Moose's emotional and spiritual obligation to help his community.
25:06 – A message from our sponsors.
27:27 – Moose’s advice is to calm your emotions.
34:57 – How you can reach out to Moose and Struggle Is Your Success.
Connect with Moose and support his work:
Struggle Is Your Success: siys.ca
QA Enterprises: qa-enterprises.com
SIYS LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/company/siys
Moose LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/musap-abdel
IG: @siyscanada
FB: ww.facebook.com/StruggleIsYourSuccess
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Christa Hill is the Co-Founder and CEO of Tacit Edge Product Leadership and the International Product Foundation. She is passionate about product management and driven by a unique problem solving perspective and a desire to improve the world as we propel into a digital age.
Christa co-authored the global award winning product management curriculum - the only diversity, equity, and inclusion based program of its kind. A proud member of the 2SLGBTQI+ community, she also serves as the Director of Innovation for WTAL Canada, a not for profit focused on equitable opportunities for women, and is the CPO of Nexxt.Ideas.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“There was a conscious decision in the business that if this hurts us, it's for the right reasons, and we will build the thing that we were meant to build no matter what” – Christa Hill
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Christa.
2:00 – Christa struggled through learning disabilities in school, ultimately finding her way in the world of startups..
10:07 – The birth of Christa’s daughter changed the course of her professional life.
16:12 – Christa started Tacit Edge to help businesses succeed.
31:49 – A message from our sponsors.
33:58 – Christa and her team built their company based on their vision and their bond.
46:12 – The challenges of being a gay, female, single mother entrepreneur in a male-dominated industry make Christa stronger.
52:04 – Christa’s advice.
53:33 – How you can reach out to Christa and Tacit Edge.
Connect with Christa and support her work:
Tacit Edge: www.tacit-edge.com
Tacit Edge LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/tacitedge
Christa Hill LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/christajhill
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@tacitedge
You Tube: www.youtube.com/@TacitEdge
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Ryan Smith is an alumni of the University of Guelph with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics, and he boasts a pretty diverse background.
Before venturing into the business world, he enjoyed a distinguished career as a professional rugby player. Serving as the former captain of the Canadian team, with experience spanning three rugby world cups, 51 international test matches, and professional stints in France and New Zealand, Ryan honed his leadership skills and tenacity on the global stage, culminating in his induction into the Canadian Rugby Hall of Fame.
Ryan transitioned from high performance sport into entrepreneurship easily, drawing from his experience on the pitch. He co-founded 360 Engineering and Environmental Consulting after successfully helping build and sell his first business. A unique oil field equipment business, strategic foresight, adept team building skills, and a visionary approach have been instrumental in propelling 360 forward, establishing it as a leading force in the environmental consulting sector.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“The thing that I lean heavily on is that the growth mindset always prevails” – Ryan Smith
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Ryan.
2:15 – The strong work ethic that Ryan learned growing up on a horse farm.
11:47 – Ryan left university to pursue a career in professional rugby. Canadian National Team accolades soon followed.
23:42 – Ryan took a huge leap after his rugby tenure to build a new entrepreneurial career.
33:10 – A message from our sponsors.
35:21 – How Ryan built the work that he loves with people he enjoys working with at 360 Environmental.
46:38 – The lessons, practices, and mindset that structure Ryan's life.
54:19 – How you can reach out to Ryan and 360 Engineering and Environmental Consulting.
Connect with Ryan and support his work:
360 Engineering and Environmental Consulting: 360eec.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ryanjsmith12
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Trinidadian, French Canadian, Priscilla Cherry is a free spirited, queer social artist, as well as a Peer Support Specialist with a passion for people and creative collaborations with equally uplifting energies.
Recognizing a representation gap in media and the mental health sector, Priscilla applies her lived experience navigating mental health concerns and combines it with her love of play, creativity, and emotional wellness. A programmer with CJSW 90.9 FM and CKUA 93.7 FM, the in-game host for the Calgary Surge basketball team, and a lead organizer and board member at large with TEDxYYC, Priscilla really is a force.
Most recently, Priscilla began living her childhood dream of hosting a live interactive talk show when in April 2023, The Oratory was born. Priscilla firmly believes in the art of hosting, the power of sharing our lived experiences and personal narratives, and that everyone has something to share that someone else can learn from, relate to, or at the very least, be curious about.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“In order for me to experience that joy, that big joy, it's because I have experienced big, big sadness too” – Priscilla Cherry
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Priscilla.
3:04 – Growing up the daughter of a single mom in little Pickering, Ontario.
07:39 – How Priscilla's storytelling career began at church as a child, and why she had no backup plan.
13:10 – The darkest moment in Priscilla's life opened the door to her purpose.
25:30 – Practicing meditation and spirituality for balance.
30:35 – How Priscilla chooses how and where to spend her time.
32:57 – A message from our sponsors.
35:10 – Priscilla took her dreams into her own hands and started her own talk show: The Oratory.
42:50 – Why Priscilla's biggest piece of advice is to slow down.
50:11 – How you can reach out to Priscilla and The Oratory.
Connect with Pricilla and support her work:
www.priscillacherry.com
theoratoryshow.com
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/priscilla-cherry
IG: @priscillathecherry
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Florent Thévenin is a professional communicator, leader, and entrepreneur, and he's produced multimedia projects globally since 2008. In 2017, Flo created thefutureeconomy.ca, which is a vast Canadian website of leader interviews on the future economy, and he built an influential national network in the process. Previously, for a decade, Flo also produced high profile investment profiles in Africa, Middle East, Southeast Asia, and eventually in Canada, where he also organized three high level conferences in Alberta.
Flo speaks four languages, has lived and worked in 12 countries, and three Canadian provinces, and he's also conducted over 1,500 top-level leader interviews across Canada and globally. Building on his vast digital marketing and thought leadership expertise, his affinity for creative content, advocacy, and technology, and his own influencer profile, Flo founded BlockFlo Digital and BlockChain North to help leaders and SMEs up their game online and ultimately grow their business.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“There are people in life that say from a very young age, “I want to be a doctor. I want to be an engineer. I want to be an astronaut. And there are people like me who have no clue” – Florent Thévenin
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Florent, and the friends catch up.
02:37 – Florent grew up with a passion for experiencing the world.
14:45 – How Flo leveraged his love for building relationships to start his own media company, BlockFlo.
22:59 – How Flo found his own niche within the Crypto space.
29:59 – The most challenging aspects of running a Crypto business and how to handle them.
34:55 – A message from our sponsors.
37:08 – Why Florent views his purpose to be to connect people.
39:03 – Flo's best advice, lessons, and health regimen.
46:01 – How you can reach out to Florent and his companies.
Connect with Florent and support his work:
blockchainnorth.ca
blockflo.ca
Flo LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/futurflo
BlockFlo LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/blockflo
IG: @thefuturflo
X: @BlockFloDigital
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Elise Roller is a musician and the Founder and CEO of Misfit Music, Inc. in Winnipeg, Canada. She was recognized as Women in Music Canada's Entrepreneur of the Year in 2023, and has received numerous nominations for her leadership in the music community.
Elise manages a diverse roster and supports independent artists through Misfit’s Artist Evolution program, offering mentorship and strategic planning to musicians across Canada. She also teaches music business workshops and serves on Music Manager Forum Canada's Board of Directors.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I think that my purpose ... is to validate and uplift others, and especially the underdogs” – Elise Roller
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Elise.
0:56 – How growing up in a musical and church-going family shaped Elise’s life.
5:05 – Elise's adventures in Europe led to her becoming a mother, pursuing music, and finding greater purpose.
15:08 – How professional musicians make money today.
19:28 – The myriad lessons that Elise learned from her career as a performer.
21:18 – How Elise transitioned into music management and built Misfit Management.
36:00 – A message from our sponsors.
38:19 – The most important challenges that Elise has faced in her career.
43:43 – Elises's advice, health regimen, and purpose in life.
53:08 – How you can reach out to Elise and Misfit Management.
Connect with Elise and Misfit Management, and support their work:
www.misfitmusicmgmt.com
IG: www.instagram.com/misfitmusicmgmt
FB: www.facebook.com/eliserollermusic
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/eliseroller
X: twitter.com/eliseroller
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Naim Ali is the CEO of SM2 Capital Partners, whose portfolio includes commercial real estate and operating businesses, including parking lots, car rental, hotels in the US and Alberta, and casinos. Naim is currently a Board Director for Fortress Insurance Company, and he enjoys attending his monthly TEC group and PAG advisory meetings, as well as traveling with his family.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“Humbleness matters. Asking tough questions, being courageous – it matters in life just as much as it matters at work.” – Naim Ali
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Naim.
4:28 – How Naim found his identity by stepping away from his family’s business to live in New York City.
14:48 – The harsh lessons that Naim learned from his years spent working in the ego-driven world of Wall Street.
19:29 – How Naim found his way home by re-entering the family business.
34:57 – How working with his family has helped Naim become a better person and businessman.
37:59 – A message from our sponsors.
40:12 – The community that Naim is thankful to be a part of.
48:13 – The practices that keep Naim happy and healthy.
55:05 – How you can connect with Naim.
Connect with Naim and support his work:
SM2 Capital Partners: www.sm2capital.com
SM2 Capital Partners Team Bios: sm2capital.com/Our-Team
SM2 Capital Partners LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/sm2capitalpartners
Naim Ali LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/naim-ali
Fortress Insurance Company (Naim sits on the Board as a Director): https://fortressinsurance.ca/
Family Enterprise Canada (Naim sits as Chair of the Board): https://familyenterprise.ca/
Calgary Public Library Foundation (Naim is the Board Director and Chair of Governance): https://libraryfoundation.ca/
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Stan Peake is a certified Executive Coach and a Managing Partner and Director of Leadership Development at FSQ Consulting, Inc. who has helped thousands of leaders unleash their potential. The eight-time entrepreneur and seven-time best-selling author is on a mission to help over one million leaders discover their potential, which is why he coaches, writes books, and speaks on stages across North America, including at Tedx.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“Adversity. It's coming for us ... That's the ultimate empowerment in the sense that no one's coming to save you” – Stan Peake
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Stan.
0:34 – Stan built resilience growing up as a small, skinny kid.
7:19 – How Stan built his Fitness Training career from the ground up.
18:17 – The moment during a hike of Mount Kilimanjaro that Stan realized he needed to become an entrepreneur.
35:36 – A message from our sponsors.
37:55 – How Stan strives to provide meaningful success coaching with his book, Fixing Leadership.
41:15 – How the greatest challenges in Stan’s life shaped him.
46:24 – Stan’s best advice, health regimen, and what he's proud of.
56:05 – How you can reach out to Stan.
Connect with Stan and support his work:
getsuccessfaster.com/stan-peake
IG: @coachpeake
X: @stanpeake
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/stanpeake
Stan’s books: www.amazon.com/Stan-Peake
Stan’s TedEX talk: Lasting Happiness is an Inside Job
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Ian Macdonald is helping emerging and high growth ventures connect, collide, and thrive. A business and innovation leader with KPMG Canada, based at Platform Calgary, he's helping build and support our growing tech ecosystem in Calgary and across the prairies.
With 13 years in community development across Western Canada and two years growing a tech startup himself across the prairies, he's passionate about building community, growing our economy and helping businesses prosper.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I think success drives passion. I think if you can have success in something and see those wins ... that can really drive your passion” – Ian Macdonald
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Ian.
1:49 – Ian’s upbringing as the son of a hardware entrepreneur in the Okanagan.
6:37 – How Ian’s worldview expanded when his parents divorced and he attended college.
19:47 – Ian found his passion for selling real estate after college.
26:28 – How listening to his gut landed Ian at his dream job at KPMG.
34:02 – A message from our sponsors.
36:15 – Ian’s philosophy of improving with self-assessment.
44:00 – Why Ian believes his purpose is to serve other people.
52:28 – How you can reach out to Ian and support the causes that he’s involved in.
Connect with Ian and support his work:
kpmg.com/ca
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ian-macdonald
www.platformcalgary.com
bigbrothersbigsisters.ca
creativedestructionlab.com/locations/calgary/
chamber.ca
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
As an executive leader, Lynette Tremblay questions and challenges the status quo, believing that there's always a better way of doing something if we're willing to be open, foster creativity, and encourage innovation. She has helped build organizations, brands, and ecosystems across three provinces and internationally. Now, as founder of Iconoclast Solutions, Co-Founder of Stay Spicy Inc., and Co-Host of the Demythifying Brand podcast, Lynette is leveraging her experience to help CEOs grow their companies, communities grow their economies, and leaders build their brands.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I was able to come out the other side [of domestic abuse] and ... my purpose was to kick down doors and help others through them” – Lynette Tremblay
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Lynette.
0:56 – Lynette was born spicy!
15:01 – Lynette found her passion in spite of a series of painful events.
33:24 – A message from our sponsors.
35:30 – The philosophy behind Stay Spicy, Inc. and the Demythifying Podcast.
46:37 – Lynette's biggest life lessons, health and wellness regime, and purpose.
48:68 – How you can reach out to Lynette.
Connect with Lynette and support her work:
lynettetremblay.com
Demythifying Brand Podcast: demythifyingbrand.ca
IG: @demythifybrand, @stayspicyinc
LinkedIn: demythifying-brand
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Elise Featherstone has worked for the past 16 years in various roles in the aviation industry, including currently serving as the Program Manager for Uniform for an entire airline, which includes the implementation and design of staff uniforms. Recently, Elise embarked on a 21-day adventure in the Colombian jungle as part of the Discovery Channel's Naked and Afraid series.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I'm just wildly accessible for adventure!” – Elise Featherstone
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Elise.
1:14 – Elise's upbringing as the daughter of a businesswoman and a mountain man.
7:47 – Elise's globetrekking lifestyle as an airline employee.
17:20 – How Elise and the airline industry navigated Covid.
26:35 – A message from our sponsors.
28:54 – Elise's life-affirming experience on Naked and Afraid.
49:07 – Elise’s fears, purpose, and wellness techniques.
53:45 – Connect with Elise and support Brown Bagging for Calgary’s Kids
Connect with Elise and support her work:
loveelise.ca
IG: @elise.feather
X: @E_featherstone
Brown Bagging for Calgary’s Kids: bb4ck.org
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Nawaz Damji is the Managing Partner at Equium Group, one of Alberta's largest property management firms specializing in condominium, commercial and residential management. Equium also co-invests in multifamily properties and private mortgages. Under his leadership, assets have grown to $4.8 billion, over 18 million square feet, constituting 7.5 percent of Calgary's condo market. With 18 years managing commercial portfolios exceeding $20 billion, Nawaz holds degrees in economics and finance from the University of Calgary. Actively engaged, he mentors and volunteers as Chairman of the Prairie's Economic Planning Board for the Ismaili community.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“One day the game will be over, but I’m going to play as hard as I can until that day comes” – Nawaz Damji
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Nawaz.
0:53 – Nawaz’s experience growing up in Toronto in a low-income family.
10:56 – How fear drove Nawaz to find his purpose when he was young.
22:09 – Nawaz’s mindset for pursuing success.
22:08 – The people in Nawaz's life you have helped him achieve his goals.
27:51 – A message from our sponsors.
30:08 – How Nawaz grew Equium.
38:47 – How Nawaz stays healthy with such a busy life.
55:01 – How you can reach out to Nawaz.
Connect with Nawaz and support his work:
www.equium.ca/team/nawaz-damji
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nawazdamji
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown:www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
To celebrate the show’s 100th episode, Gilbert Bong and Hafiz Mehta discuss and reflect candidly on the podcast and their personal lives. They discuss the importance of storytelling and the context of the 100th episode, as well as how the show has impacted them, their guests, and their community. We also reflect on the future and what the possibilities might be.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“It sometimes takes me by surprise when someone mentions the podcast ... that's a really cool moment for us to experience” – Gilbert Bong
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces the special 100th episode.
0:57 – How the podcast is helping Hafiz and Gilbert deal with the changes in their personal lives.
16:09 – How Gilbert is finding balance in his life.
22:54 – How Hafiz is approaching working with his family.
37:12 – The lessons that Hafiz and Gilbert have learned from their entrepreneurial endeavors.
61:05 –Gilbert and Hafiz briefly touch on what is coming up for the show in the near future.
Thank you for your support!
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
As the Co-Founder and CEO of Quickly Technologies Inc., Kyle Friedman is revolutionizing access to earned revenue for businesses, driving growth and efficiency. His diverse background spans the Service, Education, and Technology industries, and his commitment to social impact extends through his involvement in entrepreneurial organizations and support for Canadian non-profits, reflecting his passion for leveraging entrepreneurship and technology for positive change.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“You put it out there, you see what works and then you follow it ... It just might not be what you thought you were building” – Kyle Friedman
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Kyle.
1:30 – Kyle’s upbringing in a small fishing community in New Brunswick.
9:08 – Kyle started building his own businesses straight out of college.
14:12 – How Kyle started his highly successful painting business, Zoom Painting.
22:47 – A message from our sponsors
25:04 – Why Quickly has become so successful.
32:47 – Kyle’s willingness to jump into the unknown and find success comes from his self-work.
54:00 – How you can connect with Kyle and Quickly.
Connect with Kyle and support his work:
www.helloquickly.com
IG: @kylefriedman
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/kylemclaughlinfriedman
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Martina Sarro is a seasoned headhunter and a Senior Recruitment Consultant at Verve Recruitment Group, Her journey began in the Executive search realm at TEC Canada, igniting a passion for cultivating strong client bonds. Ethical and discerning, Martina prioritizes cultural alignment above and beyond resume qualifications, delivering long lasting placements. With a keen eye for talent, Martina has selected clients and candidate partnerships, ensuring mutual alignment and success. Her approach blends expertise with integrity, crafting placements that elevate companies and individuals.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“It really doesn't matter what you're doing ... as long as you're a good person, you're proud of the work that you do and carry yourself with integrity” – Martina Sarro
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Martina.
0:56 – How growing up in Italy shaped Martina’s outlook on life.
8:42 – The lessons in integrity that Martina’s father instilled in her from a young age.
19:16 – How Martina thrived in her career after school despite being a middling student.
25:38 – A message from our sponsors.
27:58 – Martina always stayed open to the lessons that her peers could teach.
40:43 – The lessons that Martina would like to pay forward.
47:02 – How you can reach out to Martina.
Connect with Martina and support her work:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/martina-sarro
www.ververecruitmentgroup.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Clark Lai is the founder and CEO of Motiv Innovation Group, an internationally recognized award-winning digital innovation and venture building company. He has led the strategic vision, execution, and expansion of various business units within Motiv, and under his leadership the company has helped its clients and partners increase shareholder value by over $2 billion. Clark is a serial entrepreneur and has started multiple companies in his career.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I believe business should be and must be used for good.” – Clark Lai
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Clark.
2:06 – What Clark learned from his Chinese immigrant engineer/University professor parents.
6:41 – Clark's first forays into entrepreneurship as a child.
12:48 – How being an immigrant shaped Clark’s outlook on life.
15:50 – Clark's wide-ranging entrepreneurial projects.
19:05 – Clark's process for developing a business venture.
25:18 – A message from our sponsors.
27:38 –The most painful and important lessons in Clark's career.
33:29 – How Clark runs Motiv.
39:30 – Why Clark gets so much satisfaction from cooking
45:22 – The lessons that Clark wants to pass on.
49:35 – How you can reach out to Clark and Motiv.
Connect with Clark and support his work:
motiv.digital
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/clarklai
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Joel Olandesca is the CEO and Co-Founder of SOS Charging Solutions and Simpl.AR, two industry award winning companies that are revolutionizing the event technology industry. Joel's mission is to demystify augmented and mixed reality and make it accessible and simple for everyone. As a firm believer in giving back to others, Joel’s work volunteering for causes that are close to his heart earned him the Volunteer of the Year Award. When he's not behind his desk, Joel is behind the decks as DJ ChargedUp.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“We found our community ... that's where we were supposed to be” – Joel Olandesca
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Joel.
1:08 – Joel's wild childhood with his globetrotting family.
7:21 – Uncle Joey from Full House inspired Joel’s career path.
12:51 – How being denied for a job led Joel to found SOS Solutions and simpleAR.
27:53 – How Joel and his companies navigated the challenges of Covid.
35:10 – How simpleAR seeks to help usher consumers into the world of augmented reality.
39:48 – A message from our sponsors.
42:07 – How Joel and his wife address the challenges of working together.
47:48 – The importance of community in Joels entrepreneurial journey.
52:03 – Joel's journey as a DJ.
60:12 – How you can reach out to Joel, SOS Charging Solutions, and simpleAR.
Connect with Joel and support his work:
soschargingsolutions.com
simplear.io
IG: @joelolandesca
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/joelolandesca
X: @joelolandesca
MixCloud: www.mixcloud.com/djchargedup
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Aditi is the founder and CEO of the Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Center, as well as the Co-Founder of Seeds of Growth and Grief Education, and the Board Co-Chair of Skipping Stones Foundation, a registered charity empowering trans- and gender-diverse youth and adults. Through her work, Aditi has supported thousands of families on their reproductive paths, and her fierce dedication to the intersectional restorative, social justice and equality for all has made her a trailblazer within the bereavement community.
In 2023, Aditi was given the Queen Elizabeth II Platinum Jubilee Medal in recognition for her outstanding service.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I wanted to be remembered as someone who gave a shit" – Aditi Loveridge
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Aditi.
1:43 – How being part of an Indian immigrant family shaped Aditi's life.
7:44 – Being a hairdresser ignited Aditi’s passion for social work.
14:31 – The life-changing experiences that led Aditi into pregnancy and infant loss support work.
31:44 – A message from our sponsors.
34:02 – How the Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Center works.
42:13 – Why Aditi believes life skills are just as important as academic skills.
50:18: – Ways that you can reach out to Aditi and the Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Center.
Connect with Aditi and support her work:
aditiloveridge.com
pilsc.org
IG:@aditiloveridge
X:@aditiloveridge
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/aditi-loveridge
e-book: https://seedsofgrowth.myflodesk.com/ebook
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Kim Titchener is the Founder of Bear Safety and More, and she's been working on educating the public, government, and industry on bear and wildlife safety for over 20 years. From tracking grizzly bears in Banff National Park to observing bear behavior on the Alaskan coastline from a kayak, Kim shares her expert insights into how to enjoy nature safely and with respect for the natural world, as well as how to follow your passions and find your niche in life.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“When people see that you're doing what you love, and you're authentic about what you love and what you do, they get excited and then they get inspired and then they want to make a difference, too" – Kim Thitchener
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Kim.
0:44 – How climate change is affecting the business of bear study.
3:18 – How growing up loving nature led Kim to bear study and conservation.
12:54 – How Kim's love of nature guided her through a heavy school course load.
16:20 – The wild daily life of a bear expert.
18:57 – What people need to know about bear safety before they go hiking.
24:24 – Kim's favorite part about her work.
27:18 – The forks in the road that have defined Kim's career.
37:22 – How Kim maintains balance in her life.
42:56 – Why Kim's most important piece of advice is to follow your passions.
48:10 – How KIm overcame shyness to become a great public speaker.
50:58 – Why Kim would like to be remembered for making a difference in science and conservation.
54:37 – How you can reach out to Kim and support her work.
Connect with Kim and support her work:
Bear Safety: bearsafety.com
Hey Bear training courses: heybear.com/pages/kim-titchener
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kim-titchener
IG:@bearsafetyandmore
Twitter: @bearconflicts
YouTube: @bearsafetyandmore
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Amish Morjaria is the Founder and CEO of Calgary-based marketing consulting firm Forward Level and lifestyle clothing brand Pluto Apparel whose successes garnered him a listing in Avenue Calgary’s 2019 Top 40 Under 40. Today, Amish speaks with Hafiz and Gilbert about tackling the challenges of entrepreneurship, how his work life helps him deal with tragedies he has experienced personally, and why his people-first approach works so well.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“We need good humans. And if we have good humans, the rest takes care of itself” – Amish Morjaria
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Amish.
0:56 – Being born-and-raised in a close Calgarian community.
13:02 – How Amish found his niche and formed Forward Apparel.
19:53 – The steps that Amish has taken (and still takes) to become a better leader.
36:23 – A message from our sponsors.
38:46 – Why losing someone he loves make Amish prioritize his health.
46:47 – How Amish is using Pluto Apparel to help the underdog.
52:28 – How you can reach out to Amish and support Pluto and Forward Level.
Connect with Amish and support his work:
forwardlevel.com
plutoapparel.ca
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/amishmorjaria
IG: @amishmarjoria
X:@amishmorjaria
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
As the President and CEO of United Way of Calgary and Area, Karen Young has dedicated her life to improving the lives of her fellow Calgarians. Whether through her 20-year tenure as Director of Community and Neighbourhood Services with The City of Calgary or her role on many Calgary community boards and committees, Karen’s tireless work social change earned her the 2020 Calgary Influential Women in Business Award in the Social Enterprise category. Today, Karen speaks with Gilbert about the spark that ignited her long career of doing communal good, as well as the challenges that she has overcome along the way.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“Usually, if you can lean into what’s important to yourself, you don’t have to worry about all the noise around you" – Karen Young
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Karen.
1:59 – Karen’s upbringing in Winnipeg.
9:02 – How Karen became a leader in Calgary community work.
14:40 – How Karen and United Way Calgary help improve Calgarians’ lives.
29:41 – Why the 2011 Alberta floods were the most important challenge that Karen has faced.
34:01 – The life lessons that Karen would give to her younger self.
42:53 – How Karen manages her physical and mental well-being.
48:06 – The opportunities for positive change that Calgary is facing right now.
51:16 – How you can reach out to Karen and United Way Calgary.
Connect with Karen and support her work:
calgaryunitedway.org
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/karen-young
X: @KarenYoungYYC
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Mohamed Youssef is a filmmaker, actor, producer, and CrossFit trainer who’s career and life have been defined by following his passions no matter where they take him. After taking a huge risk by leaving his native Cairo to study filmmaking in New York City, Mohamed found himself immersed in the world of film, earning spots working on Warner Brothers films starring Liam Neeson and Al Pacino. Now splitting time between his own production company and his work as a CrossFit trainer in Calgary, Mohamed shares his story of taking risks, building resilience, and knowing that it’s never too late to go for it.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“It’s never too late. If you feel like you’re not happy where you are in life ” – Mohamed Youssef
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Mohamed.
1:23 – How Mohamed stumbled into an acting class that sparked his passion.
11:25 – How the Egyptian Revolution changed Mohamed's life.
19:18 – The ups and downs of pursuing a dream in New York.
31:41 – The happiness that Mohamed has found following his intuition.
35:24 – A message from our sponsors
37:41 – How Mohamed battled through his rock bottom.
47:07 – Mohamed's advice to those who think it's too late to make a change.
48:33 – Mohamed's CrossFit journey.
55:44 – How you reach out to Mohammed and hire him to make videos!
Connect with Mohamed and support his work:
MadHouse Films: www.youtube.com/@MoYoussef LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mohamed-youssef
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Alex Putici believes in working together, whether it’s with his rapidly growing and successful coworking company Work Nicer, his family, or his community. Today, he speaks with Gilbert and Hafiz about the strange (and hilarious) journey through odd jobs in multiple countries that led him to found Work Nicer, and why everything he does is fueled by his fundamental belief that no one succeeds alone.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“Forget competition. We’re way better off working together than competing” – Alex Putici
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Alex.
3:25 – How growing up as a farm kid prepared Alex for leadership.
11:35 – Why Alex sees his ADHD as a superpower.
17:55 – Alex's wild experience as a door-to-door salesman in America.
28:14 – How Alex built Work Nicer with a people-first mindset.
34:54 – A message from our sponsors
37:18 – The huge risks that Alex has taken to make his business work.
51:46 – Why sleep is Alex's most important non-negotiable.
55:01 – How you can get in touch with Alex.
Connect with Alex and support his work:
www.putici.com
Linked In: www.linkedin.com/in/alexputici
IG: @alexputici
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Geoff Scoates’ hugely popular Social Run Club has become a staple of the Vancouver social exercise scene. Now in its third year, the club features themed running events that are accessible to any skill level and, most importantly, fun. Today, Geoff shares how his father’s inspiration, a journey across the world, and his passion for helping others enjoy running led him to start the run club in the first place.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“If you want to run consistently, have fun, and connect, that’s what I identified as why I am creating this” – Geoff Scoates
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Geoff.
2:46 – How Geoff’s father starting marathons in his 50s inspired Geoff.
6:32 – The health benefits of running as you get older.
9:32 – What Geoff learned traveling the world for five years.
16:46 – Geoff’s journey starting the Social Run Club.
29:48 – Why the Social Run Club supports beginners and fun running.
39:07 – What being a lululemon Ambassador means to Geoff.
42:58 – How you can reach out to Geoff and join Social Run Club.
Connect with Geoff and support his work:
www.socialrunclub.com
IG: @socialrunclub.yvr
IG: @geoffscoates
Linktree: linktr.ee/socialrunclub.yvr
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Co-Founder and Chief Growth Officer of Calgary-based tech advocacy firm Toast and Certified Change Practitioner April Hicke joins the show today to share her passion for helping women thrive in the tech industry, as well as how her tumultuous and triumphant young life prepared her for the challenges of entrepreneurship.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“It’s up to us to figure out how we’re going to take those problems and make a life out of them” – April Hicke
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – introduces April.
1:04 – How April’s rough homelife in rural Ontario shaped her mindset.
6:25 – The struggle April faced during her early forays into the workforce after school.
13:56 – What April learned about diversity working at PWC.
19:34 – What made April start forging her own path with entrepreneurship.
27:57 – A message from our sponsors.
30:15 – Why April is so passionate about Toast.
41:05 – The lessons that April has learned about diversity work and life as an entrepreneur.
51:33 – How you can support April, Toast, and women in tech.
Connect with April and support her work:
Toast: www.trytoast.ca
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, the Founder and CEO of StellarAlgo, Vince Ircandia, joins the show to discuss how he conquered his fears to build one of the world’s most successful sports tech businesses. He also delves into the painful circumstances of his early childhood, and why his father’s sterling example became crucial to his life story.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“The more I understand myself, the more I’m able to take the right risks at the right moment in order to achieve what I want” – Vince Ircandia
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Vince.
2:03 – How Vince’s family persevered through tragic circumstances.
6:46 – Vince’s wife and children push him to be a healthier person.
11:15 – The importance of tenacity in Vince's sport-driven school career.
29:30 – How Vince overcame his fears and founded StellarAlgo.
34:32 – A message from our sponsors.
36:53 – How StellarAlgo helps sports teams work directly with their fans.
47:49 – How Vince juggles the weight of responsibility.
56:36 – How you can reach out to Vince.
Connect with Vince and support his work:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/vincent-ircandia
email: vircandia@stellaralgo.com
StellarAlgo: stellaralgo.com
X: @vincentircandia
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown: www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, the President of community-centric home builder Trico Communities and President of Calgary restaurant Egg & Spoon, Patrick Chiu, joins the show to discuss his unique approach to helping his community thrive, as well as the responsibility and joy that he feels when honoring the legacy of his highly successful Chinese immigrant parents and passing it on to his children.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“We have a family saying: doing well by doing good ... We can do well in business, then we can do good for the community” – Patrick Chiu
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Patrick
2:17 – How being the son of Chinese immigrants shaped Patrick’s early life.
6:46 – The story of Trico Communities.
18:49 – How Patrick and Trico are tackling the housing crisis in Canada.
29:01 – Patrick highlights the Trico Charitable Foundation.
34:25 – A message from our sponsors.
36:48 – The biggest setbacks that have helped Patrick's career in the long run.
41:07 – What Patrick wants to be remembered for, and what he wants to pay forward.
54:30 – How you can reach out to Patrick.
Connect with Patrick and support his work:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/patrickwchiu
Trico Communities: tricocommunities.com
Egg & Spoon: eggandspoon.ca
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown:www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Bobbie Racette joins the show to share the wild journey that led her to founding one of the world’s most forward-thinking and successful remote talent agencies, Virtual Gurus, for which she won the University of Victoria’s Peter B. Gustavson School of Business 2023 Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year Award and the Indigenous Entrepreneur of the Year for 2022 from Pow Wow Pitch. She also discusses why she is so passionate about helping other people find work that they love, and the many adversities that shaped her career and life.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I'm thankful that I allowed myself to be uncomfortable, because I think that in order to be comfortable, you have to be uncomfortable” – Bobbie Racette
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Bobbie.
0:59 – How Bobbie's outlook on life was shaped by growing up with a rare skin disease.
4:13 – Bobbie's journey after dropping out of high school.
7:58 – How Bobbie pushes through adversity.
19:13 – The biggest learning experience in Bobbie's career.
25:22 – What it felt like to win Pow Wow Pitch's 2022 Indigenous Entrepreneur of the Year award.
34:27 – A message from our sponsors.
36:47 – How Bobbie makes her work environment a part of her wellness regime.
46:22 – How Bobbie handles fear.
50:41 – How you can support Bobbie and her work.
Connect with Bobbie and support her work:
Virtual Gurus: thevirtualgurus.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/bobbiejoracette
X: @Bobbie_Racette
IG: @beejes
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Krown:www.krown.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Inez Ashworth shares the story of her challenging, colorful, and passionate life which has led her to become a cultural innovator and trusted advocate as the Founder of Inclusive Concepts, Inc. and a diversity in the workplace consultant. She also shares why she is so driven to give back to the community of Calgary by leading and participating in community work, volunteering, and mentoring.
Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I always make time for people. You never know what people are going through” – Inez Ashworth
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Inez.
1:15 – Why Inez loves vibrant colors (and sloths).
3:06 – How being raised in a pub shaped Inez's incredibly unique childhood.
9:02 – Inez's arduous journey from childhood in Rochdale to adulthood in Calgary.
15:45 – How Inez's journey through the professional diversity space has evolved over the past ten years.
31:46 – Why Inez meets people where they're at when it comes to diversity.
41:25 – Why helping other people is what makes Inez the happiest.
45:19 – Inez's biggest fear as a diversity practitioner.
47:02 – How you can support Inez and her diversity work.
Connect with Inez and support her work:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/inez-ashworth
Inclusive Concepts, Inc.: inclusiveconcepts.ca
Leading With HEART Conference: inclusiveconcepts.ca/events/leading-with-heart
Email: info@inclusiveconcepts.ca
Canadian Center for Diversity and Inclusion: ccdi.ca/our-people/associates/inez-ashworth
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, CEO of Aldon Oils, Ltd. and CEO of Tribune Capital, Del Mondor joins the show to share the family values, successes, failures, and tough life lessons that led him to being named Saskatchewan Oilman of the Year for 2024 and one of Canada’s most successful energy industry entrepreneurs at the helm of his family office.
Between two dots – "Really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“What scares me is failure, but also, I relish failure. It’s the nourishment that I need for better things” – Del Mondor
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Del.
0:59 – Del's upbringing in Saskatchewan as part of a huge, sports-loving family.
4:52 – The influence of Del's father, the former owner of Aldon Oils.
9:08 – Del's transition from hockey standout to entrepreneur.
12:36 – How Del and his brother transformed the family business into a legacy asset.
16:07 – Why Del took a huge financial risk to buy his family's company, and how he climbed out of debt.
22:24 – A message from our sponsors.
23:13 – How Del successfully navigates the volatile Oil and Gas industry with Tribune Capital.
31:29 – What excites Del the most about “the game of business.”
33:32 – Why Del both fears and embraces failure.
41:43 – Why Del’s best bit of advice to young entrepreneurs is to relax.
48:26 – How you can support Del and his work.
Connect with Del and support his work:
Tribune Capital: www.tribunecapital.ca
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/del-mondor
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, one of Western Canada’s foremost authorities on the region’s energy industry and the President and CEO of Pine Cliff Energy Ltd., Phil Hodge, shares the story of his unconventional path from law school to investment banking to oil and gas entrepreneur, as well as why he is very optimistic about the future of energy in Canada.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“If you work really hard at what you’re doing, doors will open up. I really do believe that.” – Phil Hodge
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Phil.
3:15 – Phil’s small town upbringing in the town of Andrew, population: 500.
7:46 – The lessons that Phil has learned from his odd path to oil and gas industry CEO.
14:59 – How Phil followed through on the risky decision to leave the practice of law.
21:57 – Why saying yes to opportunities led to an even better corporate career for Phil.
26:47 – A message from our sponsors.
28:09 – How embracing impermanence has served Phil's life and career.
39:13 – Phil's outlook on the future of the energy industry in Western Canada.
43:37 – The career and life accomplishments that Phil is most proud of.
49:07 – How you can support Phil and his work.
Connect with Phil and support his work:
Pine Cliff Energy: www.pinecliffenergy.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/phil-hodge
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Marketing maven Christina Pilarski joins the program today to discuss her work as CEO and Founder of Calgary-based full-service PR, marketing and communications agency CIPR Communications, which has earned her a placement on the Entrepreneurs Herald’s Top 30 Entrepreneurs to Look Out For in 2022 list.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“What was that paper that you loved? What was that research that you took time on, that you understand? Great, there’s your passion!” – Christina Pilarski
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Christina.
2:02 – How growing up with the pressure of being an only child shaped Christina's entrepreneurial spirit.
8:32 – What sparked Christina's passion for communications.
12:57 – How Christina found success during her journey through the world of comms.
27:31 – A message from our sponsors.
28:55 – Why Christina took the plunge and started CIPR, and how she found her niche.
43:30 – Why introspection is so important to Christina's work and life.
50:15 – How you can support and connect with Christina and CIPR.
Connect with Christina and support her work:
CIPR Communications: www.ciprcommunications.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/cpilarski
IG:@twobabiesandabusiness
Two Babies and a Business Podcast: www.ciprcommunications.com/twobabiesandabusiness
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, real estate extraordinaire Justin Mayerchak joins the program to discuss his efforts as Co-Founder and Partner of The Mayerchak Group and Executive Vice President of Colliers International, the challenges and joys that come with working in a family business, and why there is no substitute for hard work.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“You can’t schedule innovation, you can’t create collision, you can’t build relationships … if you’re 100% remote" – Justin Mayerchak
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Justin.
2:51 – How Justin's active, sporty, and somewhat erratic childhood shaped his professional mindset.
6:48 – How Justin's lack of direction in school landed him at Colliers.
12:24 – Why the power of community has been critical to Justin's success.
16:31 – The importance of working with a team in a physical space.
19:38 – Justin's experience working with his father and his brother.
23:43 – Why the real estate that Colliers does is so unique.
26:35 – A message from our sponsors.
28:01 – Why Justin believes there is no substitute for hard work.
31:55 – Justin’s cure for imposter syndrome.
35:37 – Why culture and fit is the most important component to hiring a new employee.
39:32 – The accomplishments that Justin is most proud of.
42:07 – Justin's recipe for physical and mental wellness.
44:46 – Justin's purpose.
46:18 – How you can support Justin, Colliers, and Platform Calgary.
Connect with Justin and support his work:
Colliers International: www.collierscanada.com/en-ca
Mayerchak Group: www.linkedin.com/company/the-mayerchak-group-workplace-advisory-services
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/justin-mayerchak
X: @JustinMayerchak
Platform Calgary: www.platformcalgary.com
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos:www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Derek Hovinga discusses the unconventional journey that led him to found The Inbound Lab, one of Canada’s most forward-thinking B2B marketing companies, and why human connection and empathy drives everything he does. He also provides a goldmine of insight on how to create and publish better content!
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I think the lesson is just to build relationships ... if you’re just a good person and you do good things, it’ll work out" – Derek Hovinga
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – introduces Derek.
2:12 – How growing up in Calgary with Dutch and Indonesian parents has shaped Derek.
9:10 – The wide array of jobs that Derek took on after high school, and the valuable relationships he made along the way.
20:56 – The huge importance of mentors in Derek's life, even the ones he’s never met.
24:51 – Why Derek loves speaking with people on his podcast.
33:30 – Derek's tips for creating better content.
40:33 – A message from our sponsors.
42:00 – Derek's mental and physical wellness regimen, and what he enjoys about the Isma'ili community.
51:51 – How you can support Derek and Inbound, and work with them
54:21 – Something about Derek that most people don't know..
Connect with Derek and support his work:
The Inbound Lab: www.theinboundlab.ca
IG: @derek_hovinga
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/derek-hovinga
The Client’s Side Podcast: www.theinboundlab.ca/the-clients-side-podcast
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Lourdes Juan joins the show to share her journey as an entrepreneur and Urban Planner who has founded a diverse array of organizations including Hive Developments, Knead Technologies, Leftovers Foundation, Fresh Routes, and Soma Spa, as well as her deeply personal motivations for helping to better the lives of her fellow Calgarians.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I think supporting the founding community in general is really really helpful. So look up your local founders and see all the cool work that they’re doing in your city” – Lourdes Juan
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Lourdes.
2:53 – Lourdes's early life as a native Calgarian with a tight-knit family.
9:12 – The trials and tribulations of Lourdes's first entrepreneurial venture.
19:45 – How Fresh Routes is revolutionizing food delivery in Calgary.
32:23 – The passion that fuels Lourdes's work.
39:18 – A message from our sponsors
40:43 – How Lourdes finds focus in her work and life.
44:05 – Why watching dumb TV is Lourdes’s perfect downtime.
46:42 – What Lourdes is doing with her latest venture, Knead Tech.
54:48 – Lourdes’s advice to new entrepreneurs.
58:02 – How you can support Lourdes, her work, and the Calgary community.
Connect with Lourdes and support her work:
lourdesjuan.com
IG: @lourdesjuan
Twitter: @lourdesmjuan
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lourdesmercedesjuan
Watch Lourdes’s TEDx talk: www.youtube.com/watch?v=rQngaJngypg
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Jonah Chininga, Founder of community wallet app Woveo and member of the Canadian Lenders Association, joins the show to discuss his winding journey through entrepreneurship, and the personal motivation he brings to his work helping new immigrants to Canada build a strong financial foundation.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“Really, it's all about enjoying the journey, not the destination, and being part of the process ... Understand that things take time. Understand that it's a process” – Jonah Chininga
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Jonah.
0:41 – Jonah and his large family’s journey from Nigeria to Canada.
5:13 – Jonah's family and sporting endeavors growing up in Nigeria.
14:33 – How Jonah's entrepreneurial spirit blossomed after being frustrated working his first job in Canada.
19:26 – How Jonah's experience at the United Nations Youth Assembly sparked the idea for his first start-up, Woveo.
25:05 – Why and how Jonah and his team strive to make life easier for immigrants to Canada with Woveo.
29:43 – A message from our sponsors.
31:07 – How Woveo's psychology-based business model works.
35:03 – The lessons and people who have helped Jonah and the Woveo team find success.
39:29 – How Jonah keeps his mind and spirit healthy within the challenging world of entrepreneurship.
42:53 – Why the advice that Jonah would give his younger self is to enjoy the process.
50:27 – How you can support Jonah and Woveo.
Connect with Jonah and support his work:
Woveo: woveo.com
email: jonah@woveo.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jonah-chininga
Canadian Lenders Association: www.canadianlenders.org
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Public school teacher, Curator of TEDxCalgary, Founder of the Resourceful HumanProject and a former University of Calgary Senator, Rahim Sajan joins the show to discusshis passion for citizenship, entrepreneurship and Canada.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“Be kind to yourself... when situations are not under your control, be kind to yourself” – Rahim Sajan
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Rahim
1:46 – How Calgary welcomed Rahim when he migrated from Tanzania as a teen.
4:58 – How Rahim’s youth in Tanzania developed his community building mindset.
11:10 – How Rahim’s philosophy of education ties into his unique teaching situation.
17:06 – The importance of storytelling in education and life.
20:17 – Why Rahim loves working with the University of Calgary.
25:05 – A message from our sponsors.
26:56 – Rahim's education-based decision-making process.
32:36 – Rahim’s strategies for being kinder to yourself.
39:54 – How you can connect with Rahim and support TEDxCalgary and education in Calgary.
Connect with Rahim and support his work:
TedxCalgary: www.tedxcalgary.ca
Calgary Public Schools: www.cbe.ab.ca
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/rahimsajan
IG: @rmsajan
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Innovation Week: https://www.innovationweekyyc.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, the guys speak with actress, filmmaker, podcaster, and founder of Shirah Consults Bukky Abaniwonda (a.k.a. Bukky Wonda) about her impassioned, scrappy journey from growing up under restrictive social structures in Nigeria to creating her own success in the entrepreneurial world of Calgary.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“Even though I never accepted it, I was always quite ambitious. But I would never use that word as a child because it felt like a taboo as a woman to say that you were ambitious or driven” – Bukky Wonda
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Bukky.
1:57 – What Bukky learned growing up as a stubborn, curious girl in Nigeria.
4:10 – How Bukky navigated the strict gender roles that she experienced growing up.
6:50 – How her pursuit of schooling and re-finding her voice landed Bukky in Canada.
14:00 – How Bukky survived the struggle of moving to Calgary on her own with no job prospects.
26:23 – Bukky's conflicted relationship with entrepreneurship.
34:32 – A message from our sponsors.
36:20 – How Shirah strives to democratize access to immigration opportunities through technology, and how Bukky worked to build it.
46:05 – Does Bukky see herself doing anything other than Shirah?
47:38 – Why Bukky is forever grateful to Alberta Women Business Enterprise.
51:36 – How you can support Bukky’s work and get in touch.
Connect with Bukky and support her work:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/bukkywonda
Shirah Consults: www.shirah.co
www.threads.net/@bukkywonda
IG: @bukkywonda
Twitter: @bukkywonda
Bukky Wonda Podcast: open.spotify.com/show/5hmk2v7tW55IzwTSIWojvE
YT: Bukky Wonda
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Innovation Week: https://www.innovationweekyyc.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Mary Morrison joins the show today to discuss the curiosity, entrepreneurial spirit, and passion for making communities better that led her to make the ride sharing industry safer by co-founding Wilma.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“It's a privilege for me to have the stories that women will share with me of what their experiences have been” – Mary Morrison
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Mary.
1:20 – How growing up as a middle child in a large working class family taught Mary how to be flexible and embrace her curiosity.
8:53 – The exciting places that entrepreneurship has taken Mary to.
12:42 – The key to making a working from home experience successful.
16:19 – Why being a lifelong “science nerd” makes Mary a great entrepreneur.
20:04 – The harrowing near-kidnapping experience that led Mary and her partner to found Wilma.
25:46 – A message from our sponsors.
27:36 – How Wilma is making ride sharing safer for everyone.
35:35 – The improvements that Mary and Wilma are aiming to make in the Alberta community.
39:04 – How Mary has navigated the steep challenges that every startup faces.
47:01 – How Mary decides what to put her time and energy into.
49:01 – Mary's advice for founders to survive the work of a startup.
53:13 – How you can support Mary and her work, as well as yourself!
Connect with Mary and support her work:
Wilma: https://getwilma.app
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Innovation Week: https://www.innovationweekyyc.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Co-Founder and CEO of revolutionary property management software Propra, Al-Karim Khimji, joins the show to discuss how his people-first approach to entrepreneurship has guided his impactful career and life. Growing up in a hard-working family, Al-Karim learned the value of perseverance and community building by working at his parents’ motel throughout his youth. Now, with a growing team of like-minded people who he loves by his side, Al-Karim translates those experiences into developing a service for people like his parents to be able to do their jobs better. Listen in as Al-Karim shares his story, and how and why he does is part to improve the Calgary community.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“We have an openness to learning from folks – how do we surround ourselves with bright people who can complement our skills or identify the gaps or just tell us when we’re wrong” – Al-Karim Khimji
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Al-Karim.
1:47 – How being a Calgarian, born and raised, shaped Al-Karim's community-focused mindset.
6:44 – Al-Karim's work at his family motel as a child taught him perseverance..
9:00 – How he learned how to trust his gut in university.
12:01 – How Al-Karim found his way into consulting and private equity by working to improve communities in Egypt.
20:40 – How and why Al-Karim and his team are striving to automate residential property management with Propra.
28:09 – A message from our sponsors.
29:57 – How Al-Karim has evolved his business with Platform Calgary.
34:54 – The most important challenge that Al-Karim and Propra have faced so far.
42:03 – Not letting your ego get in the way is a hard lesson to learn when building a business.
47:48 – Why Al-Karim is most proud of his relationships, and what he believes his purpose to be.
50:59 – How you can support Al-Karim, Propra, and your local library.
Connect with Al-Karim and support his work:
Propra: www.propra.ca/posts/meet-ceo-al-karim-khimji
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/al-karimk/
Calgary Public Library: https://calgarylibrary.ca/
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Innovation Week: https://www.innovationweekyyc.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, the guys are joined by David Legg, PhD, who is a Professor of Health and Physical Education at Mount Royal University. As a tireless supporter of and advocate for athletes with a disability at the provincial, national, and international level, David has served as the President of the Canadian Paralympic Committee, a board member for the 2015 Pan Parapan American Games in Toronto, and a member of the International Paralympic Committee’s Sport Science Committee, and he is is the incoming President of the International Federation of Adapted Physical Activity. His work earned him an induction into the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame in 2022 as a Multisport/Paralympic Builder. In today’s conversation, David shares how his loving relationship with his parents, his upbringing as a community builder, and his passion for helping better the lives of others has resulted in his illustrious and – in his words – lucky career.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“We just want to help. We want people to enjoy, we want people to thrive, we want people to be successful” – David Legg
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces David.
1:08 – How David found himself in Munich working as a visiting professor.
7:30 – Why David loves teaching in a classroom so much.
9:22 – How David developed his passion for helping others by bonding with his father watching sports.
16:56 – What drives David to showcase his students' accomplishments in his "museum" of an office.
26:05 – Where David's drive to volunteer for the betterment of the Calgary community comes from.
33:38 – A message from our sponsors.
35:30 – How David stays in great shape (other than hiking mountains in Switzerland).
40:23 – Why taking a job as an administrator became the lowest point in David’s career and his most potent opportunity for learning.
48:33 – The community initiative that David is most proud of being a part of.
53:38 – David's purpose in life.
58:38 – How you can get in touch with David and support his work.
Connect with David and support his work:
email: dlegg@mtroyal.ca
Calgary Adapted Hub: www.calgaryadaptedhub.com
Mount Royal University: www.mtroyal.ca/ProgramsCourses/FacultiesSchoolsCentres/HealthCommunityEducation/Departments/HealthandPhysicalEducation/Faculty/dlegg
Twitter: twitter.com/davidfhlegg
David Legg: ca.linkedin.com/in/david-legg-5
International Federation of Adapted Physical Activity: ifapa.net/contact
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Innovation Week: https://www.innovationweekyyc.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Jade Alberts joins the program to discuss his work as the Founder of Peer Guidance - Purpose Before Profit and an Angel Investor in Cleantech, Life Science, Agtech, and Industry Agnostic Tech, as well as the host of the very popular entrepreneurship and business podcast Telling It Like It Is and a public speaker who strives to draw from his own experiences overcoming trauma and mental illness to empower others to do the same. Listen in to a discussion filled with earned wisdom, plain and honest truths, and the inspiring story of one of Calgary’s most successful entrepreneurial gurus.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I’m a big fan of being authentic, being yourself, and being honest ... People do business with people they trust and people they love” – Jade Alberts
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Jade, who shares why he is so passionate about sports.
3:42 – The intellectual awakening that Jade experienced when he attended Notre Dame.
8:25 – How Jade found his calling in sales and learned the value of being honest and straightforward.
16:18 – The story of how Jade became “The Weiner King” when he partnered with Nathan’s Hot Dogs.
20:35 – How Jade has been able to get involved in so many great exits.
28:03 – A message from our sponsors.
29:56 – Common trends that Jade has noticed with entrepreneurs' mindsets when going through growth phases.
34:29 – Why Jade started his podcast, and how it has become so successful.
72:21 – The painful experience that led to Jade embarking upon his speaking career in order to help other people cope with their traumas.
50:44 – Jade's wellness regimen.
53:06 – Why Jade believes his purpose is “sharing”.
54:25 – The lessons that Jade would like to pay forward.
57:00: – How you can connect with Jade.
Connect with Jade and support his work:
Telling It Like It Is podcast: youtube.com/channel/UCbKhV5FWGIPrHKrqOpIwRTA
IG:.instagram.com/jadealberts
Twitter: twitter.com/JadeAlberts LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/telling-it-like-it-is
Innovative Calgary: https://innovatecalgary.com/team/jade-alberts/#:~:text=Jade%20is%20an%20Angel%20Investor,Growth%2C%20Scaling%20%26%20Angel%20Investing.
Peer Guidance: www.peerguidance.ca
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Innovation Week: https://www.innovationweekyyc.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, the CEO and Managing Partner of Contemporary Office Interiors, the largest commercial interiors dealership in Canada, Rory Ellis, joins the program. After climbing the ranks in Calgary’s contract furniture industry, Rory accepted an offer to take over COI, and quickly found himself navigating the Canadian legacy brand through an energy crisis shortly followed by the 2020 pandemic. Now, with a team and a company that are stronger than ever, Rory sheds light on the community that has helped to make his work thrive, as well as the valuable lessons about leadership that he has learned along the way.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“Leadership is really centered around how you build the strongest team of people” – Rory Ellis
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Rory.
2:06 – How Rory's childhood in Toronto with two parents in the contract furniture business prepared him for his career path.
4:58 – Rory's family moved to Calgary to take part in its economic opportunities, which led to the biggest opportunity of his career.
11:09 – How Rory became CEO of COI.
18:57 – How COI was able to navigate the pandemic.
23:55 – A message from our sponsors
26:55 – How Rory's role and skill set has changed being the leader of a small organization versus a large one.
29:22 – The biggest lessons that Rory has learned in his business journey.
36:11 – How Rory strives to keep the three pillars of his life in balance.
40:13 – Why Rory doesn’t want COI to “grow to death.”
49:18 – What Rory believes with purpose to be.
51:28 – How you can get in touch with Rory and inquire about his work.
Connect with Rory and support his work:
Contemporary Office Interiors: coi.bz
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rory-ellis
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Innovation Week: https://www.innovationweekyyc.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, storyteller, law professional, yoga teacher, leader in the Canadian not-for-profit sector, and CEO of the Calgary Centre for Global Community & Humainologie, Salima Stanley-Bhanji, joins the show to discuss her hugely varied career full of initiatives to improve the lives of her fellow Canadians. As a believer in the power of storytelling to heal and empower, Salima has directed 30 short films for Humainologie, and she has provided editorial assistance to developing and published authors and is a speaker coach for TedxYYC. Her work has earned her a Calgary Influential Women in Business Award in 2021, and the distinction of being named by the Calgary Herald on their annual list of ‘Compelling Calgarians’ in 2022. Listen in as Salima shares how following her passions led her from Australia to Canada, and to become one of Calgary’s leading advocates for societal betterment.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“My role has been ... to live out the intention of the founder ... authentic to me so that I can use my power and my experience to do the work that I do” – Salima Stanley-Bhanji
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Salima
3:09 – How growing up the daughter of an immigrant father and experiencing racism in Australia shaped Salima’s worldview, and how she found her way to Canada.
14:09 – Salima's journey from law school to not-for-profits to Humainologie.
19:34 – The personal growth that has drawn Salima to work that helps improve the lives of others through storytelling.
25:33 – A message from our sponsors.
27:28 – What Humainologie does to create and foster healthy communities.
30:29 – How Salima's interest in filmmaking blossomed into a career, and how she is involved in the Calgary International Film Festival..
37:55 – Why in the world does Salima run half-marathons barefoot?
45:41 – Why Salima is a staunch supporter of alternative education.
53:01 – The lessons that Salima wants to pay forward to her daughter.
59:49 – How you can support Salima’s work and get involved in the events that Humainologie is putting on.
Connect with Salima and support her work:
www.salimastanleybhanji.com
IG: @salimastanleyb
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/salimastanleybhanji
www.humainologie.com
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Cheap Therapy: email hello@betweentwodots.com with the subject “Cheap Therapy”
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, the guys are joined by Sheila Taylor, the CEO of Parks Foundation, an organization dedicated to creating thriving communities and public spaces. With a lifelong passion for learning and active living, she has served as Community Association President, Chair, and Trustee of the Calgary Board of Education, and she is currently Board Chair of Sport Calgary and a Board Member of Alberta University of the Arts. Join Sheila as she shares with Hafiz and Gilbert the story of her life and career, and why she has always been so dedicated to improving all aspects of the city that she loves.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“A lot of folks come to me and ask how they can develop their career, and I always say two things. 1: volunteer... the second one is: be willing to say yes to things that you have no idea how to do” – Sheila Taylor
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Sheila.
0:56 – Sheila shares the story of the historical Parks Foundation building.
2:33 – How Sheila's sporty upbringing in Edmonton helped her develop confidence and her love for nature and community.
5:20 – How the untimely passing of Sheila’s father during her youth pushed her to pursue her goals.
7:50 – How a few simple words of encouragement from a teacher gave Sheila the confidence to go into business.
11:40 – Why a meandering post-university career path was crucial to Sheila finding her passion.
15:56 – The time that Sheila ran and performed at a stand-up comedy show without any experience in comedy.
21:02 – Why Sheila's advice to her younger self would be to stop being so hard on herself.
22:17 – A message from our sponsors.
24:10 – Why the Parks Foundation’s work always starts with the community.
30:04 – The feelings of satisfaction, joy, and gratitude that Sheila gets from helping develop the Calgary community.
33:07 – The major setbacks that proved to be blessings in disguise for Sheila.
37:05 – The things that make Sheila happy today.
38:21 – What Sheila's most important coaches and mentors have taught her along the way.
48:55 – The ways that Sheila believes we can help cultivate leadership skills.
51:39 – How you can support Sheila, Parks Foundation, and your community.
Connect with Sheila and support his work:
Parks Foundation Calgary: www.parksfdn.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sheila-taylor
Twitter: @SheilaTayloryyc
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Cheap Therapy: email hello@betweentwodots.com with the subject “Cheap Therapy”
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Dr. Terry Rock, the President and CEO of non-profit, member based tech incubator Platform Calgary, joins the show to share why he is so passionate about improving Calgary. After leaving a venture capital firm early on in his career, Terry developed his own business with the intention to build a front door for innovators which partners and collaborates with local businesses to help develop the careers of innovative entrepreneurs along every step of their journey. Now a fixture in the Calgary tech community, Terry shares how his upbringing shaped him, the mindset required for entrepreneurial success, the piece of advice that he always gives to young businesspeople, and more.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I remember someone telling me, ‘no one is in charge.’ Go and do the things that you really want to do... Take control of it. You can” – Terry Rock
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Terry.
0:35 – The artwork that inspires Terry's intention.
1:09 – The Canadian prairie roots that shaped him.
8:42 – How Terry's experience as a champion curler, and meeting a girl from Brazil, led to his career as a community leader.
15:56 – The life advice that constantly gives Terry hope for the future.
17:52 – How family and exploring his passions landed Terry in Calgary.
21:45 – Terry's journey from working at a venture capital firm to CEO of Platform Calgary.
25:55 – Why it was so important for Platform Calgary to build its physical facility as a “clubhouse for innovators”.
33:59 – A message from our sponsors.
35:57 – The key skills that Terry believes make a great entrepreneur.
40:27 – The two books that impacted Terry's mindset the most.
45:11 – Terry's purpose.
47:38 – Where Calgary is today in terms of technology and innovation, and the five areas in which it can improve.
56:43 – Why Terry's bike is so important to him.
61:33 – How you can support Terry and his work.
Connect with Terry and support his work:
Platform Calgary: platformcalgary.com
IG: @platformcalgary
Calgary International Film Festival: ciffcalgary.ca
Twitter: @Rockster
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Cheap Therapy: email hello@betweentwodots.com with the subject “Cheap Therapy”
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Mary Moran, the recently retired President and CEO of Calgary Economic Development, joins the show today to share the passion and entrepreneurial drive that led her to become one of the most influential people in shaping the image of Calgary. With a thirty-year career in branding and marketing, Mary and her team have won more than 200 industry awards, including their work branding the entire city of Calgary, and she continues to work toward bettering her local community through a wide variety of initiatives now in her retirement. Join Mary, Hafiz, and Gilbert today for a conversation about building a career of intention, perseverance, and changing the world for the better.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“I learned from great leaders that the only thing to do is move forward. And you will fail, but… you just gotta try!” – Mary Moran
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Mary.
3:12 – How Mary's upbringing in a competitive family in Ontario shaped her masculine leadership style.
6:16 – Why her unusual schooling experience taught Mary the value of learning in the workplace.
9:16 – How working for some of the best leaders in Canada brought Mary to Calgary.
11:35 – What Mary loves about Calgary, and why she dedicates so much time giving back to the Calgary community.
17:42 – How Mary developed the action-oriented mindset that has led to her success.
23:29 – What makes Mary excited about Calgary and its future.
27:36 – A message from our sponsors.
29:32 – The lessons that Mary learned from her high-stakes failure with the 2022 Winter Olympics.
36:18 – Mary's wellness regimen.
40:56 – Why critical decision-making is the lesson that Mary would like to pay forward.
43:16 – Why awards don't matter as much as doing the best job possible for Mary.
44:24 – How Mary has been successful in her transition into retirement.
48:17 – What Mary believes her purpose to be.
50:33 – How you can support Mary, her work, and the Calgary community.
Connect with Mary and support her work:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/mary-moran
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Cheap Therapy: email hello@betweentwodots.com with the subject “Cheap Therapy”
Today, the Chief Impact Officer of Calgary-based charitable donation management corporation Benevity, Sona Khosla joins the show to discuss just what exactly it is that a Chief Impact Officer does, as well as her incredible journey to becoming one. Ever since being surprised to find herself taking a job in the marketing world fresh out of school, Sona has been on a quest to use business as a force for good by reinventing capitalism and being, in Benevity’s COO’s words, “the conscience” of her company. Now an admired business and thought leader, she credits the upbringing that her truly unique immigrant parents gave her in Calgary for much of her success. Join Sona, Hafiz, and Gilbert for an amazing conversation about finding freedom, honoring others, and understanding the pitfalls of purpose.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I think because of the events of my mom’s death ... What I really want to do is live more of my truth – more of my purpose” – Sona Khosla
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Sona
3:24 – How growing up in Calgary as the daughter to Indian immigrant parents, one of whom became a spiritual healer overnight, shaped Sona into the woman she is today
6:10 – How Sona’s mother’s leukemia diagnosis and passing changed the trajectory of her career.
11:13 – Why Sona calls her father “the best mother that [she] could ever have”
14:00 – Her surprising and deeply “unintentional” path from school to marketing to Chief Impact Officer at Benevity Impact
22:22 – The real impact that Sona strives to have as Chief Impact Officer
30:03 – Benevity’s thoughtful approach to taking a public stand on important issues
32:44 – A message from our sponsors
34:54 – How Sona uses meditation and riding her bike to keep herself balanced
40:03 – We, as a culture, need to talk more about death
42:59 – Why Sona would tell her younger self to beware of the pitfalls of purpose
48:25 – Why simplifying, not striving for more, is the path to freedom
51:56 – The mental health crisis that pushed Sona to seek help
55:40 – The impact that she wants to have on the world
57:15 – How you can support and connect with Sona
Connect with Sona and support her work:
Benevity Impact Labs: benevity.com/impactlabs
LinkedIn: /www.linkedin.com/in/sonakhosla
Sona’s mother’s meditation: https://youtu.be/CGYvyLWVT3c
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Cheap Therapy: email hello@betweentwodots.com with the subject “Cheap Therapy”
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Jason Zaran joins the show today to share his passion for building businesses that provide healthy, convenient, and affordable food to the public. After cutting his teeth at the Heinz corporation, Jason decided to forge his own path in the food industry by starting his own health food restaurant, The Main Dish, which went on to become a staple of Canadian cuisine. Shortly after, Jason’s desire to develop a meal prep company that would provide fresh, clean ingredients to his local community resulted in the company that he runs now, Fit Kitchen. Listen in today for a discussion about what it takes to succeed in the ever-evolving food industry, and why sticking to your values is the best place to start.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I believe that, even though we weren’t making money early on, it was putting your best foot forward and sticking to your values. If we do the right things at the start, good things will happen - you don’t wait until you’re successful - you say, ‘These are my values and we’re going to stick with them” – Jason Zaran
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Jason.
2:57 – What Jason learned from his upbringing in Regina and Saskatchewan
6:35 – How Jason gained confidence (and a criminal record) in junior high school
11:44 – How his Uncle John's swagger ignited his passion for business.
16:08 – How being a door-to-door salesman laid the foundation for Jason's success.
17:52 – How Jason found success running his first restaurant, The Main Dish, in the highly turbulent restaurant industry.
25:01 – Why a cornerstone of Jason's business is always to be involved in the community.
27:17 – A message from our sponsors.
29:22 – The lessons that Jason learned when he formed Fit Kitchen with a goal to provide healthy meal prep options to the general public.
36:56 – The biggest game changers for Jason's career and life, and what makes him happy.
42:51 – How you can learn more about Fit Kitchen’s products and connect with Jason.
Connect with Jason and support his work:
fitkitchen.ca
IG: @jzaran
Twitter: @JasonZaran
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Cheap Therapy: email hello@betweentwodots.com with the subject “Cheap Therapy”
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Shawn Freeman joins the show to discuss his work as one of Calgary’s foremost tech experts. Shawn’s passion for using technology and business to improve the lives of people around the world guides him in all his endeavors. After leaving a large company in his early twenties, Shawn founded the renowned Calgary-based IT service provider TWT Group, Inc., which he later sold and became the Regional Vice President for Alberta for the IT firm Fully Managed. Join Shawn and Gilbert for a discussion about taking risks, developing trust, and passing on hard-earned wisdom for the good of the next generation.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I just kept leading people how I want to be led and treating them how I want to be treated, and we eventually built up a really awesome culture” – Shawn Freeman
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Shawn
1:07 – How Shawn's interest in computers sparked during his middle-class upbringing as a child of divorce
7:24 – How an age barrier led Shaw to start his own company
12:40 – Why developing people skills became vital for the health of his business
15:57 – What made Shawn decide to sell his business
18:03 – A message from our sponsors.
19:51 – How Shawn and his team developed their unique IT service
23:23 – Why IT services were needed more than ever during COVID
27:43 – The wisdom that Shawn has gained from taking business risks and one near-death experience
34:47 – The importance of coaching
39:02 – What’s coming up next for Shawn, how the tech industry in Calgary has changed, and how you can support the community
Connect with Shawn and support his work:
www.shawnfreeman.ca
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shawnafreeman
IG: @shawn_freeman
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Cheap Therapy: email hello@betweentwodots.com with the subject “Cheap Therapy”
Today, Dr. Miral Mehta shares her journey from 14-year-old entrepreneur growing up in Mumbai to award winning ophthalmologist, co-founder and CEO of Atom Health, and founder of Stellar Integrated Eye Care in Canada, as well as why she is so passionate about combining entrepreneurship and health care to make a difference in peoples’ lives. Dr. Mehta was also names Top 40 Under 40 in 2022 by Edify.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“Human beings matter. Human lives matter. And what you do for people, at the end of the day, that is all that matters” – Miral Mehta
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Miral
2:02 – The wisdom Miral learned from her parents, growing up in Mumbai, and moving to Canada
8:01 – Why Miral always wanted to become a physician, and what attracted her to Canada
11:48 – Miral’s healthy mindset for handling challenges
13:43 – How Miral's lifepath turned out much differently than she expected
18:03 – The unique work that she and her colleagues are doing at Stellar Eye Care
22:37 – A message from our sponsors
24:32 – The big "why" that keeps Miral going, and how she deals with burnout
30:52 – Why the advice that she would give her younger self is "be patient!"
33:30 – The skills that a physician needs to have
35:16 – The most game changing moments and people in Miral's life
44:32 – How you can support Miral and her work
Connect with Miral and support her work:
Stellar Eye Care: stellareyecare.ca
Atom Health: atomhealth.ca
Email: miral.mehta@stellareyecare.ca
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/dr-miral-mehta
Twitter: @miral_mehta
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Cheap Therapy: email hello@betweentwodots.com with the subject “Cheap Therapy”
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Senior Advisor at Deloitte and the former Minister of Jobs, Economy and Innovation and Minister of Justice and Solicitor General of Alberta, Doug Schweitzer, joins the show to discuss his journey from prospective professional baseball player to representative of the electoral district of Calgary-Elbow. He shares how the highs and lows of his young life prepared him for a career of public service, and how he strove to use his office to better the community of Calgary.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“Failing gave me that resilience and that confidence to go out and pursue something and, if it works, awesome; if it doesn’t work, well, not the end of the world” – Doug Schweitzer
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Doug.
2:10 – Doug's upbringing bouncing around Canada as an aspiring baseball player.
9:18 – What made him pursue a degree in law school.
12:11 – Doug's wild law school experience.
14:56 – How he landed in Calgary and found his way into politics.
19:55 – When Doug realized that he was willing and able to run for office.
24:21 – A message from our sponsors
26:16 – The impacts that Doug felt he has had in his career
37:37 – Doug's transition out of public life and into the private sector.
40:33 – Why failing in sport gave Doug the biggest lessons of his life.
44:54 – The routines that keep Doug centered.
47:20 – How you can support Doug’s work and the Calgary community.
Connect with Doug and support his work:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/doug-schweitzer
Twitter: @doug_schweitzer
Instagram: @dougschweitzer
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Cheap Therapy: email hello@betweentwodots.com with the subject “Cheap Therapy”
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, the President and Co-Owner of Calgary’s largest independent, locally-owned media company, RedPoint Media Group and Calgary’s foremost lifestyle and community magazine Avenue, Käthe Lemon, joins Hafiz. Beyond the requisite hard work and dedication craft, Käthe attributes her fast and unconventional rise from Avenue editor to Co-Owner of the magazine to her passion for bringing people together and finding like-minded Calgarians to partner with. Her work garnered her the Editor of the Year award in 2011 by the Alberta Publishers association, and her contributions have helped Avenue win multiple awards for excellence in writing, photography, and design. Join Käthe and Hafiz for a conversation about the ever-evolving media landscape, the work of building community, and finding success by letting go of control.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“Really, what we are looking for is to work with organizations that, like us, believe that connection to community improves peoples’ lives, and who want to do engaging storytelling that’s built on trust.” – Käthe Lemon
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Käthe.
2:21 – Käthe’s upbringing living all around Canada, and why she loves that she landed in Calgary.
9:20 – Her unconventional path to becoming a writer.
12:42 – How the magazine world has changed during Käthe's career, and why magazines are far from dead.
22:14 – How Käthe went from Associate Editor to Co-Owner of Avenue.
28:22 – A message from our sponsors.
30:15 – How and why Käthe strives to bring people together with Calgary community events.
36:39 – What keeps Käthe focused and even-keeled in a chaotic media environment.
45:44 – Life lessons that she wants to pay forward.
55:33 – How you can support Käthe and Avenue, and get involved in community events.
Connect with Käthe and support her work:
Subscribe to Avenue: avenuecalgary.com/shop
Sign up for the Avenue newsletter: avenuecalgary.com/newsletters
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kathelemon
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Cheap Therapy: emailhello@betweentwodots.comwith the subject “Cheap Therapy”
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Hafiz’s friend and mentor Cynthia Watson joins the show to share all the good she does as Chief Evolution Officer for the charity Vivo for Healthier Generations Society. With a wide range of experience in health care, social economics, and community well-being, Cynthia loves to develop and implement new ways to help people connect with each other and live healthier, happier lives. Join Cynthia, Gilbert, and Hafiz for a discussion about her journey to and through health care, the little things that we can do to help one another, and what it means to evolve.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“How you see the world is really how you change the world” – Cynthia Watson
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Cynthia.
2:11 – Cynthia’s upbringing in Geraldton.
4:50 – How a music therapy opportunity launched her career in health care.
7:52 – How Cynthia strives to help make life better for people in nursing homes.
13:02 – The moments of anxiety that have shaped her life for the better.
16:59 – Cynthia's strategies for dealing with fear and stress.
19:30 – The project that she is working on to bring silence and intention to people's lives.
23:27 – A message from our sponsors.
25:20 – What it means for Cynthia to be a Chief Evolution Officer.
33:19 – The gamechangers in her life.
36:51 – What Cynthia believes her purpose to be, and what makes her happy.
42:33 – Her wellness regimen.
45:31 – How you can support Cynthia and her work.
Connect with Cynthia and support his work:
email: cwatson@vivo.ca
IG: @vivoyourlife
Twitter: @vivoyourlife
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Cheap Therapy: email hello@betweentwodots.com with the subject “Cheap Therapy”
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Dan Go shares the details of his incredible journey from high school drop-out who was embarrassed of his body to Canada’s top body coach for entrepreneurs, politicians, and people at the peak of their potential. Jolted into action by the sudden loss of his mother, Dan made it his mission to help others take control of their lives like he did, and through his thoroughly researched, tested and science-based methods, Dan has been able to positively impact thousands of people in-person and over one million followers on social media. Join Dan, Hafiz, and Gilbert for a discussion about embracing life by honoring your body, the joys of doing the work, and holding onto what’s important.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“These emotions can completely overtake you and consume you… or these emotions can be used as fuel, as fire” – Dan Go
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Dan.
0:39 – How Covid prompted Dan’s move to Vancouver, BC.
3:06 – How he went from growing up embarrassed by his body to a professional personal trainer.
5:12 – How his mom passing away when he was twenty-four taught him to take control of his life.
11:32 – Dan's nuanced opinion on quick-fix weight loss drugs.
16:17 – How the concept of health changes over the different seasons of life.
20:20 – Dan's top two tips for what can you do today to make your body feel better today.
26:52 – A message from our sponsors.
28:45 – The role that science plays in Dan's fitness training practice.
31:11 – Why Dan works specifically with entrepreneurs.
35:43 – How he built his company and community.
42:12 – Dan’s non-obvious ways to educate yourself.
47:05 – Key lessons that Dan wants to pass onto the next generation.
53:51 – How he stays grounded as his notoriety grows.
58:40 – How you can support Dan and book a session.
Connect with Dan and support her work:
www.danfounder.com (will change to dango.co soon)
IG: @danfounder
YouTube: @danfounder
Twitter: @fitfounder
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Cheap Therapy: email hello@betweentwodots.com with the subject "Cheap Therapy"
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Farinaz Lari joins the show to share her journey from martial arts-obsessed Iranian girl to champion kickboxer to entrepreneur, activist, and model in Vancouver, BC. While struggling to be taken seriously in the patriarchal world of Iranian martial arts, Farinaz dedicated herself fully to kickboxing and rose to become the first Iranian woman to with WAKO World Kickboxing Championships, racking up an impressive list of accolades along the way. Soon after, she immigrated with her family to Canada in order to seek more opportunities, which led to her fighting for Team Canada and co-founding District Warrior Gym with her husband in 2016. Now, Farinaz and her gym have become a fixture not only in the Vancouver community, but in the Iranian community as well, as she works to help liberate women from the deep-seated cultural oppression that they are experiencing in her birthplace. Join Farinaz, Hafiz, and Gilbert for a discussion about pushing oneself, hard work, and the empowering affects of a strong community.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I felt important. I felt like I matter. So that brought the responsibility of wanting to be the best version of myself. And that created me, and that’s what I do with my students in my gym now… That’s what people want. When we’re lonely, we struggle, and we need to belong to a community” – Farinaz Lari
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Farinaz.
1:26 – Her experiences growing up in Iran.
5:20 – How martial arts movies inspired her to get into the sport.
12:10 – How she changed the system for other Iranian martial artists.
17:01 – Why she and her family moved to Canada.
22:04 – The reason for Farinaz’s dedication to community service.
27:30 – A message from our sponsors.
29:22 – How Farinaz and her husband started District Warrior Gym, and why it is thriving.
39:59 – How and why Farinaz is working tirelessly to support the liberation of women in Iran
47:04 – How she takes care of herself.
49:38 – The impact that she wants to have on the world.
54:14 – How you can support Farinaz and her work, and learn more about the situation in Iran.
Connect with Farinaz and support her work:
farinazlari.com
IG: @farinazlari
FB: facebook.com/FarinazLariathlete
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/farinaz-lari
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Cheap Therapy: for more information e-mail hello@betweentwodots.com with the subject line ' Cheap Therapy'
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Nic Beique joins the show to discuss his work as the Founder and CEO of Helcim, a payments company that makes it faster, easier, and more affordable for businesses to get paid. With a 15-year track record of establishing payment platforms for a wide variety of companies, Nic has been recognized for his contributions to the payment industry and tech economy in Calgary as the EY Entrepreneur of the Year Prairies Technology overall category winner in 2018 and as a member of the Avenue Calgary Top 40 Under 40 class of 2019. In this discussion, Nic shares the passion for community-building, coding, and bringing warmth to the banking industry that continues to drive his success.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“That’s the beauty of being a young entrepreneur: that innocence and that ignorance is the only reason that you take on something. And now we look at where we are and we’re so glad that we did it” – Nic Beique
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Nic.
1:04 – Nic’s humanitarian approach to banking, and how he found his way to Calgary and into the payments industry.
11:04 – How he started Helcim.
15:21 – The payment business explained.
23:02 – What it was like for Nic to enter into a business against established giants like Square.
30:10 – A message from our sponsors.
31:34 – Nic’s philosophy on branding, hiring, and embracing change.
42:55 – His strategies for self-improvement.
45:48 – What excites him in business and life.
50:54 – The impact that Nic wants to have on the world.
55:00: – How you can support Nic, his work, and the tech industry in Calgary.
Connect with Nic and support his work:
Helcim.com
LinkedIn: Nic Beique
Twitter: @Helcim
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Lloyed Lobo joins the show to discuss his community-driven work at Traction and Boast, two firms that he co-founded to connect and empower entrepreneurs and innovators from around the world. He shares how his journey as a refugee who witnessed first-hand the power of a tight-knit community during the Gulf War shaped his mindset and gave him the drive to not only succeed in business, but to help others do so, too. Lloyed’s work has been covered in Forbes, TechCrunch, Fox Business, and more, and he has been featured on more than forty podcasts. Join Lloyed, Hafiz, and Gilbert today for a conversation about the power of bringing people together.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“It’s neither the destination nor the journey. It’s the companions that matter the most” – Lloyed Lobo
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Lloyed.
1:36 – What Lloyed is up to on his sabbatical in Dubai, and why COVID inspired him to work out to Eye of the Tiger.
16:08 – Why the idea of “success” can be toxic.
19:28 – Lloyed’s experiences as a refugee.
23:04 – Why and how he started Boast.
32:00 – A message from our sponsors.
33:23 – The most valuable lessons that Lloyed has learned so far.
45:27 – What he’s doing, and what gets him excited.
52:51 – How you can connect with Lloyed and support his work.
Connect with Lloyed and support his work:
Traction: tractionconf.io
Boast: boast.ai
Twitter: @lloyedlobo
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, the guys are joined by Therapist, Author, Speaker, Coach, Podcaster, and Founder of Eunoia Zen Inc. Furkhan Dandia for a conversation about all that he does to support others. After experiencing a divorce and leaving the corporate world mid-career to pursue a Masters in Psychology, Furkhan decided dedicated his professional life to helping people, predominantly men, let go of shame, understand that it is okay to ask for help, and uncover their purpose. Join Furkhan, Hafiz, and Gilbert for a discussion about what it looks like to walk the path to better mental health, and how we can help others do the same.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“It’s just sticking with the process and believing in it. You’re not going to see results right away, but you really have to stick with it.” – Furkhan Dandia
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Furkhan.
1:16 – Furkhan’s busy life, how he grew up, and why he decided to become a therapist.
11:56 – How his diverse professional experience shapes his approach to therapy.
19:09 – Furkhan’s wellness regimen.
24:14 – A message from our sponsors.
25:36 – The platform that Furkhan is building, the counseling services that he is providing.
29:17 – Is there a great need for men to be encouraged to ask for help? What Furkhan has learned about himself by working to understand his trauma.
50:30 – The realization that changed Furkhan’s life.
54:48 – How you can support Furkhan’s work.
Connect with Furkhan and support his work:
IG: @eunoiazen
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/furkhan-dandia
EZ Conversations Podcast
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Joanna Shea joins the show to discuss her work as Managing Partner and CEO of The Negotiations Collective, a boutique negotiations consulting, training, and coaching firm. With over 19 years of negotiation experience that have included over $2 billion worth of acquisitions, divestitures, and contract negotiations, Joanna is one of Canada’s leading experts in field. Join Joanna, Hafiz, and Gilbert today for a discussion about the art, science, and ethics of negotiation, and how they can be applied to business and daily life.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“We help our clients get more. We teach them how to push to create more opportunity, more trust, more value” – Joanna Shea
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Joanna.
1:50 – Joanna’s upbringing in Edgemont and journey away from and back to Calgary.
6:22 – What negotiations is, and how Joanna got into it.
19:04 – The skill of negotiation in daily life and in business.
22:57 – How Joanna developed Negotiations Collective.
28:46 – There are no good guys or bad guys in negotiations.
33:09 – A message from our sponsors.
35:10 – Negotiation hacks.
39:40 – Why “the power of the we” is Joanna’s biggest gamechanger, and why should would tell her younger self to “fail more.”
49:28 – Joanna’s purpose in life.
57:23 – How you can connect with Joanna and Negotiations Collective
Connect with Joanna and support her work:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joanna-sheanc
Negotiations Collective: negotiationscollective.com
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Fit Kitchen: www.fitkitchenfood.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Canadian Football League Hall of Famer Jon Cornish joins the show to discuss their time playing running back for the Calgary Stampeders and their post-retirement career as an Investment Advisor at RBC Dominion Securities. In addition to his illustrious football career during which they won the Grey Cup twice and was awarded the Most Outstanding Player Award and the Lou Marsh Trophy, Jon became one of the youngest chancellors in North America when they were named the 15th Chancellor of the University of Calgary. They are also an active member in their community, and in 2020 they founded the Calgary Black Chambers, an organization of professional people who support post-college youth. Join the guys and Jon for a discussion about working hard, building confidence, paying goodness forward, and helping those around you be the best that they can be.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“I’m not about making myself the best. I’m trying to make everybody around me the best” – Jon Cornish
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Jon.
0:35 – The four video games that Jon plays.
4:51 – Growing up in Vancouver as one of the only minorities in his school, and how he found his way to Calgary.
13:52 – Looking back on the greatest achievements of his football career.
17:85 – How Jon was able to adjust to life after sport.
22:02 – How he strives to help the Calgary community.
26:51 – What he has learned about leadership and work during his careers.
29:49 – A message from our sponsors.
31:55 – The process that Jon went through to become a better leader.
35:39 – The advice that he would give his younger self.
41:20 – His current level of involvement in sports, and his Tai Chi and visualization practices.
52:23 – How he was selected as Chancellor of the University of Calgary.
57:42 – How Jon works through confidence issues, and what makes him happy today.
62:24 – How you can support Jon’s work.
Connect with Jon and support his work:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jon-cornish
Calgary Black Chambers: https://calgaryblackchambers.ca f
Twitter: @jonnycornish
IG: @cornycornish
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Fit Kitchen: www.fitkitchenfood.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Tyler Chisholm joins the show to discuss his work as the CEO of clearmotive marketing, the host of two podcasts, a motivational speaker, and an award-winning philanthropist. The through line between all these endeavors is Tyler’s dedication to elevating people and his community by listening, sharing, and most of all, being curious, and it’s this mindset that has helped him navigate his hugely varied career path. Join us today to find out how Tyler has been able to reinvent himself and his career time and time again in order to pursue his passions to learn about and help every single person he meets.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“You can choose how you feel. You can choose what happens in your life. Everything that’s happened is no one else – it’s all you” – Tyler Chisholm
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Tyler.
1:18 – Tyler’s upbringing on a farm outside of Southern Quebec.
6:24 – His experience as a commercial pilot and transitioning into physical fitness.
17:13 – How he met his wife and moved back to Canada from the US.
20:21 – How he has been able to reinvent himself and his career by tapping into his spirituality.
26:02 – What led him to founding clearmotive marketing.
30:00 – A message from our sponsors.
32:04 – Why he started his podcasts and the perseverance it took to grew them.
45:24 – Why working on staying present is a key facet of Tyler’s wellness regimen.
49:58 – Curiosity and the Tyler Chisholm brand.
61:45 – What makes him happy, and what he’s most proud of.
70:26 – How you can support Tyler’s work.
Connect with Tyler and support his work:
tylerchisholm.com
clearmotive marketing: clearmotive.ca
Collisions YYC podcast: collisionsyyc.com
They Just Get It podcast: theyjustgetit.ca
Twitter: @TylerChisholm
IG: @tylerchisholmyyc
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Fit Kitchen: www.fitkitchenfood.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
To commemorate today’s special 50th episode, Hafiz and Gilbert take some time to reflect on the past 12 months of doing the show together. Join them as they discuss some of their favorite moments of the show so far, what they have learned over the past year, why working on Between Two Dots has been so fulfilling for them, and more, including how they can better serve you, the audience, moving forward.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“It’s crazy to think that it’s been one year. And time’s going to pass anyways, so to anybody that’s listening, whatever you’re thinking about doing, just start!” – Hafiz Mitha
“Things happen through action, and you don’t have to have all the answers on day one” – Gilbert Bong
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces the episode.
1:04 – The feedback that the show had received.
6:10 – Some of the show’s most standout moments so far.
12:51 – Starting the podcast during the pandemic.
18:06 – Why interviewing guests has been so inspiring.
19:59 – What’s in store for the podcast going forward.
25:52 – A message from our sponsors.
27:55 – The show’s storytelling focus.
33:02 – The guys’ processes for getting into each episode.
36:27 – What they are most excited for in year two.
41:32 – How Hafiz and Gilbert have changed over the past year, and their advice for anyone wanting to start something.
Connect with Hafiz & Gilbert:
www.betweentwodots.com
email: hello@betweentwodots.com
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Fit Kitchen: www.fitkitchenfood.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, the guys are joined by the CEO of Alberta Women Entrepreneurs, Marcela Mandeville, to discuss the work that she is doing to build stronger communities and economies through women’s participation in entrepreneurship. With more twenty years of experience developing and implementing business strategies, as well as having grown up in diverse communities around the world, Marcela decided to bring her expertise to the Alberta community after a long and winding road through life and business. Join her, Gilbert, and Hafiz today for a discussion about the meaning of community, connecting the world through business, how everyone can help further the work of diversity inclusion, why she wants to put big problems in the hands of women, and more.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“One thing that I’ve learned from working with women for this many years is that women work to make the community better… That’s something we see over and over and over again.” - Marcela Mandeville
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Marcela.
2:08 – Marcela’s upbringing in Yellow Knife and Mexico City as the daughter of a First Nation father and Mexican immigrant mother.
11:49 – How her father’s culture has influenced her outlook on life.
15:02 – How her parents met.
18:57 – Marcela’s path to entrepreneurship.
23:02 – How AWE has changed since Marcela joined it in 2008.
28:46 – A message from our sponsors.
30:44 – How Marcela deals with burnout.
35:44 – Her wellness regime.
40:16 – Advice she would give her younger self.
42:54 – Where the work of diversity inclusion is heading, and what everyone can do to help.
55:36 – How you can support Marcela, AWE, and their work.
Connect with Marcela and support her work:
Alberta Women Entrepreneurs: awebusiness.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/marcelamandeville
Twitter: @MsBrightIdea, @AWEbusiness
IG: @awebusiness
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Fit Kitchen: www.fitkitchenfood.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, the President of Shane Home Group of Companies, Shane Wenzel, calls in from sunny Arizona to discuss his work, taking over and leading the Calgarian institution that his father built. After joining Shane Homes as a field laborer at young age, Shane continued climbing through the company ranks and eventually took over the company after his father stepped down, assuming a huge amount of responsibility in the process. Shane is also a social media creative, podcaster, speaker, father, and proud member of the LGBTQ community. Join him, Gilbert, and Hafiz today for a discussion about discovering oneself, handling pressure, and paying goodness forward.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“My mother and father always had a saying: ‘You cannot derive an income from the community without giving back to it.’” - Shane Wenzel
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Gilbert introduces Shane.
1:26 – Shane’s upbringing in Northwest Calgary as part of the family business.
5:36 – How he navigated a school, expectations, and his early forays into comic book drawing.
8:25 – The challenges that Shane Homes faced in its early days, and how he handled taking over.
13:24 – The entrepreneurial communities that Shane enjoys being a part of.
14:37 – Why becoming President of Shane Homes proved to be the biggest challenge of Shane’s life.
15:51 – Having the courage to be outspoken as a prominent business figure.
19:16 – Shane’s experience with coming out as gay later in life.
23:06 – A message from our sponsors
24:24 – What he has done in business and life that he is most proud of.
27:27 – What we can expect from Shane Home and Shane himself in the near future.
32:43 – How he keeps himself physically and mentally healthy with such a busy life.
37:56 – What Shane believes his purpose to be, and the ins-and-outs of working with family.
45:46 – How you can support Shane’s work.
Connect with Shane and support his work:
shanewenzel.com
shanehomesales.com
IG: @shanewenzel
Twitter: @ShaneWenzel
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/shane-wenzel
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Brett Colvin, the Co-Founder and CEO of Goodlawyer, one of Canada’s fastest growing small businesses and a new way for business owners to find affordable, high-quality legal help online. After cutting his teeth in corporate law for four years, Brett decided to use his knowledge, expertise, and entrepreneurial drive to start Goodlawyer in 2019. Now, the company has 25 employees, and it has been named “Small Business of the Year” by the Calgary Chamber. Join Brett, Hafiz, and Gilbert for a discussion about finding your true calling and pursuing it for the greater good.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“For any entrepreneurs listening right now: whoever your target is, narrow your focus. Whoever your target is, tighten it up” - Brett Colvin
Episode Highlights:
0:00 – Hafiz introduces Brett.
2 09 – Brett’s upbringing in Calgary, and his budding passion for business.
4:46 – Law school, and Brett’s first forays into running a business.
13:47 – How and why he transitioned from working at a big law firm to his own business
22:13 – A message from our sponsors.
23:35 – The evolution of Goodlawyer and the lessons that Brett learned about entrepreneurship.
30:32 – why the magic starts to happen when you can deliver to your peers.
32:17 – How it feels to be the face of Goodlawyer.
41:11 – The impact that Brett wants to have on the world.
42:45 – The non-negotiables in Brett’s wellness regime.
49:34 – How you can support Brett’s work.
Connect with Brett and support his work:
Goodlawyer: goodlawyer.ca
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/brettrcolvin
email: brett@goodlawyer.ca
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, the Founder and Chief Motivator of City Shred, Partner and Strategist of The Publicist Group, and self-proclaimed Life Athlete Cheryl Willberg joins the podcast to discuss the value of pushing oneself in all arenas of life. When she’s not leading her business ventures, Cheryl is conquering her huge athletic and personal goals, whether they be racing in grueling Ironman triathlons and half-marathons, competing in amateur boxing to overcome anxiety, or honing her ironclad mindset through a strict wellness regimen. Join Cheryl, Hafiz, and Mitha for a discussion about the transformative power of giving your all, surrounding yourself with positivity, and motivating others to do their best.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“I believe if you can give 100 on and off the turf, in your career, in your relationships, then that’s transferable in all areas of life” - Cheryl Willberg
Episode Highlights:
1:15 – Gilbert introduces Cheryl.
4:09 – Cheryl’s upbringing in a loving, supportive household in Barrie, Ontario.
10:27 – How serving at a restaurant became her gateway into the PR and fitness industries.
18:49 – Meeting her business partner in university, camaraderie with their team.
22:26 – The mindset that allows her to shoot for the stars every time she starts something.
27:01 – The importance of celebrating the wins, the mentors who inspire her.
33:28 – A message from our sponsors.
35:25 – Why having regular downtime is crucial for success.
40:53 – Why and how Cheryl started competing in Ironman triathlons.
63:32 – The gratitude that she feels for the people who help her succeed.
71:52 – How you can support Cheryl and her work.
Connect with Cheryl and support her work:
The Publicist Group
City Shred
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/cheryl-willberg
IG: prcheryl, @city_shred
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Fit Kitchen: www.fitkitchenfood.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Scott Berry joins the show to discuss his work as a wilderness guide and artist, the founder and owner of Original Path Guiding, and former business leader in the communications, energy, and non-profit sectors. After spending most of his professional life in office-bound settings, Scott decided to pursue his passion for the outdoors at the age of 55 by becoming a professional wilderness guide, coach, and nature therapist. He has never looked back. Join Scott, Hafiz, and Gilbert today for a discussion about the power of living with nature, having the courage to follow your dreams no matter your age or personal situation, and why cultivating gratitude can be the most important thing that we do in today’s world.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“It’s essential to my belief that if we really do want to achieve our dreams, there’s going to be a level of discomfort along the way. Typically, there’s going to be a shedding of something as we move onto something else that feeds our passion.” - Scott Berry
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Hafiz introduces Scott.
4:00 – Scott’s upbringing in middle class Calgary.
7:08 – His trajectory from university into the energy sector.
9:31 – Scott’s long and winding entrepreneurial journey to the outdoors.
19:12 – How his unique corporate experience informs his work as a wilderness guide, why he is so passionate about nature.
26:57 – The lonely path that Scott walked during his transition into living his best life.
35:16 – A message from our sponsors.
37:12 – Why the world today is in great need of compassion, and the power of nature to return us to gratitude.
50:28 – The importance of traveling off the trail when finding and following your passion.
57:55 – The lessons that Scott would like to pass on to others.
63:37 – Why he is most proud of his work with the youth.
67:57 – How you can develop compassion for the natural world.
Connect with Scott and support his work:
Original Path Guiding
Fairmont Banff Springs
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/scottcberry
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Fit Kitchen: www.fitkitchenfood.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Robert Price joins the podcast to discuss his quest to revolutionize real estate as the founder and CEO of Bōde Canada, an online real estate brokerage that aims to make selling real estate simple, transparent and more economical. Robert is also an advisor to one of Canada’s fastest growing tech companies, Cement. His work has garnered many accolades, including being included in Avenue Calgary’s Top 40 Under 40 of 2022. Join him, Hafiz, and Gilbert for conversation about the passion, dedication, and intention that goes into taking on an industry with a lot of baggage and disrupting it for the better.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“Time is your most valuable commodity, so if you’re going to spend 80 hours a week working on a company, make sure it has meaning to you, make sure it’s positively impacting humanity… Because anything short of that is a lot of time spent on something that doesn’t matter” - Robert Price
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Gilbert introduces Robert and wishes him a happy birthday.
4:34 – Robert’s upbringing as a native Calgarian with a tight-knit family.
8:02 – His transition into sports, university, and entrepreneurship.
17:55 – The hard lessons he learned about entrepreneurship from his farming family.
21:42 – Bōde’s mission to elevate Canadian consumers without diminishing real estate agents.
26:51 – How he found his way to Bōde.
35:15 – A message from our sponsors.
36:12 – The encouraging success of Bōde.
38:50 – Why the most important lesson that Robert has learned is to “elevate the customer.”
47:05 – The non-negotiables that keep him grounded.
49:24 – Why Bōde making it through the pandemic is what he’s most proud of.
54:42 – The people who he looks up to.
Connect with Robert and support his work:
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/robert-price-903652b
bode.ca
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Fit Kitchen: www.fitkitchenfood.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Jazzmin Jiwa joins the show to discuss her work as a multimedia journalist and documentary producer focusing on social justice, conflict, displacement and human trafficking in Africa, The Middle East, the United States and Europe. She has written for the BBC, Al Jazeera, TIME, Reuters, The Guardian, The New Humanitarian, and many more. As the daughter of displaced immigrants, Jazzmin created an independent text and audio project called Stories of Survival to tell unheard, first-person stories of refugees and survivors of war, genocide and sex assault. Join Jazzmin, Hafiz, and Gilbert as they discuss how she combined her entrepreneurial spirit with her passion for social justice to become one of the world’s most acclaimed journalists.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey”
“There’s so much inspiration that can come from hearing stories of survival, and hearing about the human spirit” - Jazzmin Jiwa
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Hafiz introduces Jazzmin as she calls in from New York.
6:57 – How Hafiz and Jazzmin know each other.
9:40 – Growing up in London as the daughter of immigrants displaced from Uganda.
14:29 – How she learned to embrace her identity and background after traveling abroad.
16:42 – Why being a shy kid watching news anchors on TV made her want to be a journalist.
23:43 – Why following her gut has resulted in Jazzmin’s amazing life experiences.
30:34 – How she keeps herself sane when covering such heavy topics.
35:53 – A message from our sponsors.
37:49 – How Jazzmin handles approaching extremely stressful or dangerous situations for her work.
41:23 – The accomplishment that she is most proud of.
46:16 – The parts of the job that scare her the most, and how she deals with them by leaning into the process.
53:09 – Lessons that she would like to pay forward.
59:44 – How you can support Jazzmin and her work.
Connect with Jazzmin and support her work:
jazzminjiwa.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jazzmin-jiwa
Twitter: @jazzminjiwa
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JazzminJiwa
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Fit Kitchen: www.fitkitchenfood.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Avnish Mehta joins the show to discuss his work as Principal of Stand and Command and a Beer Baron at Village Brewery. In the last fifteen years of his career, Avnish has traveled the world, built three successful companies, and either led or been an integral part of Canadian philanthropic organizations. Driven by his passion for equity and fairness for all, he is currently in the midst of raising capital to build mixed use real estate to help address affordability, food security, and food sustainability issues. Join Avnish, Hafiz, and Gilbert today for a conversation about embracing community, focusing our positive energies for the betterment of all, and disrupting negative paradigms.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“The willingness or desire to have unhappy outcomes for others don’t allow for you to be in a space where you can actually be positive for yourself.” - Avnish Mehta
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Hafiz introduces Avnish.
3:22 – Avnish’s formative community experiences growing up in Calgary.
8:10 – The influence of Avnish’s Singaporean and Indian immigrant parents.
13:33 – How school, early work experiences, and a hugely traumatic event informed his community-minded nature.
38:55 – a message from our sponsors
40:10 – How he started developing Stand and Command, and the intention behind the company.
48:31 – Why we can only help ourselves when we let go of negativity toward others.
59:07 – Avnish’s mindfulness meditation practice.
66:13 – Why disrupting the passing of inter-generational trauma is the impact that Avnish wants to leave.
73:26 – How you can support Avnish, your community, and yourself.
Connect with Avnish and support his work:
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/avnishmehtayyc
Stand and Command
Village Brewery
Twitter: @avnishpmehta
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Fit Kitchen: www.fitkitchenfood.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Dr. Jan Jaffer joins the show to discuss his work as the CEO and CVO of TREC Dental, and why he strives to create socially conscious, value based business in dentistry, health and management. Operating on the principles of teamwork, respect, exceptional dentistry, and continuous growth, Jan and his TREC team run 18 dental clinics in the Calgary area, and they regularly participate in philanthropic endeavors. Jan regularly volunteers with Kindness in Action and Dentistry for All, and he has been on fourteen overseas dental missions.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“It doesn’t matter what age you are, you have the ability to give back. You have the ability to help people.” - Jan Jaffer
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Gilbert introduces Jan
2:13 – Jan’s life growing up as the son of a dentist in Canada, how sports and school trips influenced his life
16:20 – how working with a team as an introvert has shaped Jan’s work
17:58 – the ins and outs of Jan’s dentistry, following his father’s footsteps, why he insists on equally shared equity with his business partners
29:55 – a message from our sponsors
31:13 – why Jan is so motivated to volunteer for philanthropic work
41:37 – Jan’s health and wellness regimen
47:48 – why moving away from home at 17 was the biggest challenge that turned into a blessing for Jan
51:51 – the most important lesson that Jan wants to pass on, and what he’s most proud of
55:58 – how you can support Jan’s work and philanthropies in Canada
Connect with Jan and support his work:
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/jan-jaffer-5ab70674
Instagram: @dr.trec, @trecdental
TREC Dental
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Founder and CEO of Included By Design Sean Crump to discuss his work as a universal design and disability inclusion industry expert. Having spent the last 16 years of his life in a wheelchair living as a quadriplegic, Sean brings his firsthand experience with the immense need and lack of inclusive environments and communities to his work to create equal opportunities for people with disabilities. Join Sean, Hafiz, and Gilbert as they discuss what it means to truly appreciate what you have, and how one can help others no matter their situation in life.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“For a long time I focused on the things I lost until I started meeting other quadriplegics who had lost more… Seeing how much worse it could be… you kind of gain appreciation for the smaller things. You gain patience.” - Sean Crump
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Hafiz introduces Sean
3:17 – Sean’s upbringing as a born and raised Calgarian, going to boarding school, and breaking his neck at the age of 19
8:16 – How he coped with his injury
14:06 – The surprising positives that came out of the injury
16:23 – How and why Sean launched Included By Design
24:31 – A message from our sponsors
26:26 – How Sean approaches solving problems with disability issues by using digital and physical tools in conjunction
41:13 – Why people providing guidance during Sean’s lowest moments have been his biggest game changers
42:55 – How Sean has adapted to being a role model, and how he maintains his wellness regimen
48:34 – The advice that Sean would give his younger self
50:05 – The role that Sean's brother and business partner plays in his life
53:00 – How you can support Sean and his work
Connect with Sean and support his work:
Included by Design: includedbydesign.com
IG: @includedbydesign
LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/IncludedbyDesign
Krooshl: www.krooshl.com/m/calgary
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Fit Kitchen: www.fitkitchenfood.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Property Manager and passionate community builder Alice Lam joins the show. In the past five years, she has started several not-for-profit organizations, including Vollyapp.com, the Calgary Community Fridge, and Good Neighbour Market, which raised nearly $90,000 and redistributed over 200,000 pieces of clothing and food to the community. This is all part of Alice’s lifelong project to let everybody know that Calgary is the most overlooked city in the world. Join us as Alice explains how a child of Chinese immigrants grew to become such an important and passionate part of the Calgarian community that she loves, as well as the ins and outs of the city’s not-for-profit system.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“I just want everyone to be jealous of Calgary!” - Alice Lam
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Gilbert introduces Alice
3:13 – Alice’s upbringing in Calgary, and globetrotting for school and work
5:28 – balancing work and life with such a full plate, how she got into not-for-profit work
14:04 – why the Historical Fire Hall activation presented a challenge that became a blessing
17:08 – how Alice’s property management background factors into her not-for-profit work
20:47 – how travel affects Alice’s perspective on Calgary and its needs
24:37 – a message from our sponsors
26:30 – the swell of interest that Calgarians have had in improving their community since the pandemic
30:32 – why Alice is driven to improve her community
35:06 – Alice wellness regime inside and outside of work
38:48 – how she works with volunteers when working with vulnerable clientele
42:21 – what she is most proud of in her career so far
45:42 – why staying out of her own way is the advice that Alice would give to her younger self
46:27 – what Alice would like to be known for after all is said and done, and what she’s working on now
54:33 – how you can support Alice’s work and help Calgary become a better place
Connect with Alice and support her work:
Alicelam.org
Vollyapp.com
Good Neighbour Market
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Fit Kitchen: www.fitkitchenfood.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Jay Brewster joins the show to discuss his work as Program Manager for Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging at Shaw Communications. As a cis-gender, queer, white man who has an invisible disability, Jay focuses his work on cultivating belonging and creating safe spaces where people can be their authentic selves, which he achieves by collaborating with Shaw’s business leaders, employee resource groups, and business partners. Jay shares how he has turned what many might perceive as weaknesses into strengths in order to become the successful person that he is today, as well as the obstacles that he has faced throughout his life just for being himself.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“It’s so powerful when somebody can come into work and not have to pretend to be something else.” - Jay Brewster
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Hafiz introduces Jay
5:39 – Jay's upbringing in and around Ontario, growing up with dyslexia, being gay in a heavily religious household
11:47 – working to creative inclusive work spaces at Shaw
16:40 – how he found his way into his role and coming out
27:15 – a message from our sponsors
29:11 – Jay’s message to others who are going through something similar
31:03 – why finding a supportive community was what helped Jay find his way
33:55 – how he brings his community-driven mindset to a large corporation
39:08 – is diversity inclusion in the workplace just lip service?
50:52 – the tenants of Jay’s wellness regime
55:02 – one accomplishment that he is proud of
56:49 – why Jay sees using his voice to amplify others’ as his purpose in life
58:24 – how you can support Jay, his work, and the movements that he is passionate about
Connect with Jay and support his work:
The Get Real Movement: thegetrealmovement.com
Pride at Work Canada: prideatwork.ca
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Fit Kitchen: www.fitkitchenfood.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Author Keynote Speaker, Coach, and Co-Founder of the Love for Lewiston Foundation Jessica Janzen joins the show to share her story of navigating huge personal tragedy to become a beacon of hope and positivity for people all around the world. After losing her infant son to Spinal Muscular Dystrophy (SMA), Jessica battled through years of deep pain and grief in order to find a way to start living her life again. Now, as a loving wife and mother of three who has found light at the end of a deep tunnel, she shares her insights and experiences with the world through her coaching, speeches, and workshops, and with her book Bring the Joy. In 2017, Jessica and her husband, Ronnie, co-founded the Love for Lewiston Foundation to raise money for those affected by SMA, and to date they have raise over $2 million. So join Jessica, Hafiz, and Gilbert for a discussion about the transformative power of hope.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“The only choice word I think there is to describe is it feels f*cked. But it also felt like a direct memo from God being like, ‘This is where you’re meant to play.’” - Jessica Janzen
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Gilbert introduces Jessica
5:30 – Jessica’s upbringing on a farm just outside of Winnipeg, always wanting to become a professional speaker, being diagnosed with ADHD
11:44 – being a wife, mother, and CEO with ADHD
16:56 – what brought Jessica to Calgary
18:44 – meeting her husband, and the birth and death of her son
27:14 – there’s no right way to deal with grief
30:49 – what makes Jessica feel fulfilled nowadays
38:18 – the role that faith plays in Jessica’s life, questioning God after losing her son
43:10 – the importance of journaling in Jessica’s life
44:56 – what Jessica is most proud of
47:36 – how she maintains a sense of order in such a busy life
51:38 – why showing up is the most important lesson that Jessica wants to pass on
54:18 – how you can support Jessica and her work, and where you can find her next book
Connect with Jessica and support her work:
jessicajanzen.ca
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jessicajanzen
IG: @thejessicajanzen
Love for Lewiston foundation: loveforlewiston.com
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Iridium: www.irsnavacord.com
Fit Kitchen: www.fitkitchenfood.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Trish Tutton joins the show to discuss the passion behind her work as a speaker and mindfulness teacher. After long stint in a stressful career and a shocking loss, Trish realized that while stress is unavoidable, it doesn’t have to dictate our lives. Now, she lives her dream of helping hard-working professionals around the world cope with their stresses through the power of mindfulness, all because she saw a need that she could fill.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“I kind of became an accidental entrepreneur because I essentially took a skill that I had and I saw a need for it and I though, ‘How can I solve this problem?’” - Trish Tutton
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Hafiz introduces Trish
2:51 – From Trish’s upbringing in Suburban Ontario to finding activism and love in Banff
10:06 – How she turned her passion for yoga into her career
15:29 – Her experience of self-actualization through entrepreneurship, and how she stays mentally well
23:07 – A message from our sponsors
25:00 – The advice that Trish would give her younger self
34:56 – The major loss that became a catalyst for positive change in Trish’s life
39:39 – The impact that she wants to have on the world, and the people who have impacted her the most
50:02 – What’s up next for Trish and her business
53:27 – How you can support Trish’s work and book her services
Connect with Trish and support her work:
www.trishtutton.com
appointments: calendly.com/callwithtrish/trish30?month=2023-02
IG: @trish_tutton
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Iridium: www.irsnavacord.com
Fit Kitchen: www.fitkitchenfood.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Rob Grupe joins the show to discuss his journey of determination and perseverance. After serving seven years in prison for a first-time drug offense, Rob turned his life around and founded a successful fitness training facility in Oklahoma. He and his wife recently sold the business and now work with clients online from all over the world, helping busy professionals over 40 achieve their fitness and mental health goals. Join Hafiz and Gilbert as Rob shares his inspiring story and proves that it's never too late to make a positive change in your life.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“If I can do it, if I can come out of prison and build everything that’s been built over the last ten years, then they can, too.” - Rob Grupe
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Gilbert introduces Rob and shares how they met
3:23 – Rob's experience as an overweight kid being bullied and finding fitness
8:42 – The escalation of Rob’s drug-selling operation, close calls in Mexico
19:47 – Becoming addicted to pain killers, getting arrested
28:54 – A message from our sponsors
30:55 – The escalation of Rob’s drug-selling operation, going to prison
35:54 – Rob’s life after prison
44:01 – Building his business with his wife
55:26 – The escalation of Rob’s drug-selling operation, going to prison
57:93 – The events and mentors that have positively shifted Rob’s mentality, lessons that he would like to pay forward
67:53 – How you can support Rob and his work
Connect with Rob and support his work:
https://linktr.ee/robgrupe
IG: @robgrupe
FB: facebook.com/coachrobgrupe/
Precision Lifestyle: https://www.precisionlifestyle.co
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Iridium: www.irsnavacord.com
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, entrepreneur and Co-Founder and General Manager of Banded Peak Brewing Matt Berard joins the show to discuss his life and career in the Calgary community. Matt’s colorful path has included pursuits in hockey, law, journalism, bioengineering, and, now, brewing. Having built Banded Peak along with his friends, he and his team’s tireless work at Banded Peak Brewing hit a major milestone in 2020 when the company was acquired by Labatt. As much as this hugely successful experience has taught him, the ups and downs in Matt’s personal life have provided him with many more lessons about entrepreneurship, relationships, and what’s really important. Join us as Matt shares his wisdom and insight into working with friends in the world of Canadian brewing.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“People are so important. I think finding the right people to surround yourself with is huge… If someone his genuinely happy about your good news, keep them around.” - Matt Berard
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Gilbert introduces Matt
3:23 – Matt’s experience growing up in Calgary playing hockey and finding his way into brewing while studying abroad
9:32 – Transitioning from law school and a dream of journalism into brewing
17:07 – Building his brewing company with his friends from the ground up, and being acquired by Labatt
31:19 – A message from our sponsor
33:21 – What the death of Matt's father taught him about life
40:53 – The dynamics of working with friends
44:57 – How Matt is approaching starting his next venture
48:32 – The non-negotiables in Matt's wellness regime
54:52 – The value of intentionality in Matt's life
58:12 – What Matt is most proud of in his career
60:45 – How you can support Matt and his work
Connect with Matt and support his work:
Banded Peak Brewing: https://www.bandedpeakbrewing.com
LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matthew-berard-75a742a2
Sponsors of this episode:
Iridium: www.irsnavacord.com
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, renowned Calgarian spin cyclist, entrepreneur, speaker, and philanthropist Andrew Obrecht joins the show to discuss his unique, community-driven career. After his university athletics career as a Defensive End for the University of Calgary, Andrew co-founded and co-owns YYC and YEG Spin Studio with the intention of motivating people to maintain a healthy mind and body, and to push themselves in the gym and in life. Andrew and his team also raise money for charities through various campaigns, and their giving total has reached over $850,000 to date. Join us as Andrew shares how he found himself leading a highly successful fitness platform, and why he wants to help his community through the power of spin.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“The thing about momentum is it’s almost impossible to start, but once you have it it’s almost impossible to stop.” - Andrew Obrecht
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Hafiz introduces Andrew
3:18 – Andrew's upbringing in Calgary as the son of two entrepreneurs, and being teased in school for his weight
10:08 – How he found his way to instructing spin cycling and starting his own studio
15:58 – How Andrew and his studio navigated (and continue to navigate) the pandemic
26:14 – A message from our sponsors
29:53 – The pillars of Andrew's community
34:16 – Why listening to his fellow spin cyclists has been the most game changing influence in his life
38:16 – How Andrew and his business partners created smart philanthropy opportunities for their community
48:28 – Working with his dad to develop Culinary Coworking
55:04 – Andrew’s wellness regime with such a full life
57:37 – Lessons that he would like to pay forward
19:35 – How you can support Andrew and his work
Connect with Andrew and support his work:
https://linktr.ee/andrewobrecht
IG: @andrew_obrecht
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Iridium: www.irsnavacord.com
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, fixture of Canadian government and business, Jessie Singh Chahal joins the show to discuss his wide-ranging career path, which has included leadership roles in government and politics, business development, retail banking, and yoga instruction. Most recently, Jessie served as the Prairies and Northern Desk to the Prime Minister of Canada, managing operations and outreach for the Prime Minister across the region. He worked in Prime Minister Trudeau’s Leader’s Office in 2015, guiding strategy development, operations, election readiness and outreach across Western Canada. His career has also seen him help numerous start-ups and established businesses in banking, high-tech, real-estate, and land development realize their full potential. Also, he expresses his passion for meditation by teaching Kundalini Yoga professionally. But as impressive as all this is, Jessie’s community and ancestry-minded reasons for everything that he does shed light on an inspiring deeper urge to nourish marginalized peoples. Join us as we learn about the life behind the hard-working, forward-thinking, and open-hearted Jessie Singh Chahal.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
“Expand your mind to the realm of possibilities that you yourself might not even know exists.” - Jessie Singh Chahal
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Introduction, Jessie’s upbringing as a first generation Canadian, developing meaningful relationships at university
12:46 – Why he's involved in so many spaces, how he stays organized
22:06 – Jessie’s passion for meditation and Kundalini Yoga
24:42 – Why he views the journey of existence as his biggest challenge
27:42 – A message from our sponsors
28:59 – The open mindset that Jessie has when it comes to community, building his intuition
36:12 – Why the advice that he would give his younger self would be to “think big.”
44:26 – The tenants of Jessie’s mindfulness-centric health regimen
48:32 – Why Jessie believes his purpose in life to be to connect to the divine universal creative energy, to be of service, and to help enrich people and communities who have been oppressed
56:24 – Why he is most proud of his ancestors and social network
59:08 – What he does for fun
62:03 – How you can support Jessie
Connect with Jessie and support his work:
https://singhconsulting.ca
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/consultsingh
IG: @consultsingh
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Today, storytelling and entrepreneur Gayathri Shukla joins the show to share her journey from engineer to Founder of Campfire Kinship, a social impact firm that provides immersive training and strategic advisory for teams to advance on their inclusion and diversity goals. After starting her engineering career at Fort Mac and spending 17 years primarily in high-level positions in the engineering and mining sector, Gayathri combined her passions for storytelling and inclusion in the workplace by leaving her job and forming her own company. She recently published the best-selling anthology Landed: Transformative Stories of Canadian Immigrant Women to illustrate the life-changing experience of immigration by sharing the personal stories of 37 women from 30 countries of origin. Gayathri also hosts the Hearth 2 Heart podcast, in which she helps her guests highlight their stories of purpose and belonging.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Introduction; Gayathri’s young life in Indian, Saudi Arabia, and Canada
6:12 – How Gayathri connects to her roots as an immigrant rather than someone whose parents immigrated.
9:34 – Why she decided to leave her career to pursue entrepreneurship
18:10 – Why effective storytelling is a “missing link” to a more inclusive and diverse work environment
21:25 – A message from our sponsors
23:25 – How Gayathri gets people involved in her business and cause
30:25 – Why the transition into entrepreneurship has been her greatest challenge and reward
33:37 – Why walking, cups of tea, and family are the foundations of Gayathri’s wellness regimen
38:43 – Gayathri’s organic process for developing, writing, publishing, and marketing her book
45:55 – Her intentional approach to appreciating the community that helps her succeed
49:24 – Gayathri’s advice to her younger self
53:13 – Why she is driven most by feeling like she make a positive impact on other peoples’ lives
55:17 – The quote that Gayathri bases much of her life on
56:21 – How you can support Gayathri
Connect with Gayathri and support her work:
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/gayathri-shukla
Campfire Kinship: campfirekinship.com
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Iridium: www.irsnavacord.com
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Gilbert’s good friend, Al Chu, joins the show to discuss his unconventional career path to becoming a renowned tattoo artist. After years of feeling unfulfilled in his first profession, drafting for the oil and gas industry, Al decided to leave the safety of the corporate and pursue his passion. Now, working out of Flipside Tattoo in Calgary, his art is highly sought after for its focus on traditional Japanese style. Al discusses what drove him to make that leap, the obstacles he overcame in the transition, and how he feels on the other side.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Introduction, what Al’s been working on lately
2:41 – His two big brothers being his biggest influences growing up, selling his art in junior high
7:13 – Deciding to leave the corporate world after seven years, hitting road bumps in his early art career
21:28 – Soliciting numerous tattoo shops for an apprenticeship before landing an opportunity
26:02 – A message from our sponsors
28:03 – Building a foundation for his career by working hard without pay during his apprenticeship
33:57 – Shoutout to Rio Pizza!
35:00 – The process of a tattoo artist apprenticeship, tattooing fruits before people
40:53 – How the flexibility of the tattoo artist’s schedule anchors Al’s wellness regimen
49:43 – Al’s advice to his younger self
51:12 – Why facing the finality of life became a gamechanger for Al
53:12 – Why Al doesn’t seek to have any specific impact on the world
56:48 – How you can support Al and Flipside Tattoo
Connect with Al and support his work:
IG: @alchutattoos
IG: @flipsidetattoos
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Iridium: www.irsnavacord.com
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Adrian Camara joins the program to discuss how he, through grit, determination, and learning to “love the taste of sh*t,” managed to parlay his frustrating experiences working at a large law firm into starting his own hugely successful start-up, Athennian. As a true entrepreneur with no filter, Adrian offers valuable, brutally honest, and quite often hilarious insights into what it takes to persevere in the unforgiving world of entrepreneurship.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Introduction, Adrian’s upbringing in Paris, Ontario, his law school experience, and moving to Ontario just before a recession
9:27 – What drove Adrian to start his own company
13:19 – The challenges of starting his company, and how he found the people who saw the value of his vision early on
23:32 – How Adrian used his arrogance to persist through the tough early days
23:39 – Using color theory to construct the right team for his business
25:25 – Why he believes “you have to love the taste of shit”
26:37 – A message from our sponsors
28:38 – How a moment that Adrian thought was going to be the end of the company turned out to be the best thing for it
31:44 – Why sleeping, telling the truth, and not drinking coffee are the cornerstones of Adrian’s wellness regimen
36:30 – Why, if he could, Adrian would tell his younger self, “If you want to know the truth, request cash.”
39:45 – Why trusting his own instincts has become Adrian’s biggest game-changer
43:57 – How the quarantine during Covid helped him find what brings him joy
49:11 – How you can support Adrian and Athenian
Connect with Adrian and support his work:
www.athennian.com
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Iridium: www.irsnavacord.com
Zelos: www.zelosglobal.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Gilbert’s dear friend Robyn James joins the show today to discuss her work guiding purpose-driven entrepreneurs to discover, express, and monetize their truest selves by aligning soul, brand, and business. She has been doing exactly that over her 10+ years as a brand consultant, marketer, and entrepreneur, and especially with her company Studio Co.Creative. Robyn shares with Gilbert and Hafiz how her upbringing, study of human design, and journey to find inner truth has guided her career, and why she wants to help other people uncover their inner Soulpreneur.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Gilbert introduces Robyn
1:42 – Robyn discusses the brand archetypes that she just gave a talk on
3:21 – Growing up as a creative kid, and having open-heart surgery at four years old
7:00 – How her frustration with perfectionism led to her desire to “unbox” herself
12:39 – The unique way that Robyn sees the world, and what human design can teach us about education
18:11 – How she handles pushing her comfort zone
21:21 – Why entrepreneurship is a powerful path for self-discovery
31:57 – a message from our sponsors
33:12 – How social media has been Robyn’s biggest gamechanger, and why “God is the ultimate brand strategist”
38:46 – Having to shift her network during the process of becoming her true self
43:07 – How Robyn has built her community based on deep connections
50:10 – Why “spiritual hygiene” is the pillar of her wellness regimen
51:55 – The surprising advice that Robyn would share with her younger self
53:42 – How you can support Robyn
Connect with Robyn and support her work:
https://robynjames.co/
https://studiococreative.com/
IG: @robynjames.co
LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/robynhounjet
Free Alignment Audit: https://robynjames.co/audit
discount code: twodots15
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Iridium: www.irsnavacord.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, the guys speak with Founder and Executive Director of Chic Geek, wife, and mother of twin girls Kylie Woods about her passion for technology, women’s rights, and creative spaces for belonging. As driven and constantly curious young entrepreneur, Kylie founded Chic Geek as a non-profit in 2013 with the goal of building gender diversity in technology by engaging, retaining and supporting intermediate women in tech. Kylie shares how experiencing otherness as a child led her down this path, how her efforts in Career Pathing for women have evolved over the past ten years, and what’s next for Chic Geek.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Hafiz introduces Kylie, who shares why she’s living with her parents at the moment.
4:29 – Growing up in Saskatoon as a Chinese kid with a huge imagination.
5:54 – Coping with feeling “not Chinese enough” and “too Chinese” at the same time, and how her relationship with her ethnicity has changed since founding Chic Geek.
9:30 – Strategies for battling Imposter Syndrome.
13:53 – The origins of Chic Geek.
18:18 – Branding for Chic Geek.
20:27 – Some of Kylie’s blessings in disguise.
27:44 – The community that keeps Kylie grounded.
31:10 – A message from our sponsors
36:59 – Kylie, Hafiz, and Mitha share their superpowers.
43:49 – The power of reflection in Kylie’s life.
47:22 – Kylie’s work-in-progress health and wellness regime.
50:35 – The lessons that Kylie wants to pass on.
54:41 – What Kylie’s proud of, and learning to celebrate accomplishments.
59:10 – How you can support Kylie, Chic Geek, and women in tech.
Connect with Kylie and support her work:
www.thechicgeek.ca
www.kyliewoods.co
Twitter: www.twitter.com/kywoods
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Iridium: www.irsnavacore.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Chef Devan Rajkumar brings his joyous energy to the show to discuss his life as a chef and television personality. As one of the world’s foremost Guyanese-Canadian chefs, Chef Dev brings his classical culinary training an passion for food to his work as a judge on Food Network Canada’s Fire Masters, and as the Food Expert on Cityline. With a focus on modernizing the craft, taste, and traditions of East and West Indian Cuisines, his work can be found on grocery store shelves in Canada and abroad in the form of his signature soups for Mema Foods International, as well as in pop-ups that he often hosts with his peers. Chef Dev discusses with Gilbert and Hafiz how he turned his love for cooking into a successful career, what the life of a TV personality is like, and why Hafiz needs to step up his cooking game.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Gilbert intros Devan.
4:18 – Why Hafiz’s mom loves Chef Dev, and why Chef Dev loves to connect with fans.
8:02 – Growing up as the son of hard-working Guyanese immigrants in Toronto.
11:57 – How being sent to boarding school taught him to be open and “don’t get caught.”
18:22 – The huge amount of work that led him to become Chef Dev.
23:13 – How his father’s strong public speaking abilities and business drive helped Chef Dev transition into becoming a public figure.
28:16 – Why reaching a breaking point with partying turned out to be a blessing in disguise for Chef Dev.
32:58 – A message from our sponsors.
34:13 – The huge importance that Chef Dev places on listening to his body when it comes to physical wellness.
41:03 – The value of “auditing your circle.”
44:07 – Why music is his greatest joy outside of food.
50:19 – How he balances being a public person with having a healthy social life.
52:56 – Why his relationship with his father and his sobriety are the two accomplishments that Chef Dev is most proud of.
60:28 – The impact that he hopes to leave on the world.
62:36 – How you can support and connect with Chef Dev, and where you can find his products.
Connect with Chef Dev and support his work:
www.chefdev.ca
Mema soups and sauces: www.mema.ca
IG: https://www.instagram.com/chefdevan/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/DevanRajkumar
YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdZSHWnMf6ZjfTgv0F9fsqQ
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@chefdevan
Email: stephanie@quellnow.com
Sponsors of this episode:
Bloom Benefits: www.bloombenefits.ca
Iridium: www.irsnavacore.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Hafiz sits down with Calgary advertising legend Jim Button to discuss his wide-ranging and community-minded career, as well as the huge challenges that he has overcome in his personal life. As the Co-Founder of Village Brewery, Jim gets to exercise his mantra of “doing good is good business” on a daily basis by selling great-tasting beer, setting up community events and fund raisers, and hiring the best talent in Canada. Jim’s so good at his job that he didn’t let a stage four terminal renal cell carcinoma diagnosis slow him down. In fact, he used his illness as an opportunity to open himself up to new ways of being, including adopting mindfulness meditations and other spiritual practices to combat the cancer and connect with life. Join Jim and Hafiz for a discussion about the universal effects of spreading goodness.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
0:57 – Hafiz intros Jim.
4:24 – Jim’s upbringing bouncing around Canada and early business career.
6:58 – Picking advertising over psychology and managing to incoroporate both into his career.
9:05 – Why Jim favored Calgary when he started out in advertising.
11:36 – Relationship with Big Rock Brewery, and what he did after his firing.
15:28 – Building Village Brewery up on the eve of the craft beer revolution with a community-minded approach.
18:58 – Having an affinity for community building all his life.
25:05 – The joy of Superjocks (including post-game beers)!
29:02 – Jim’s journey with cancer and his connection with spirituality.
35:45 – The work of practicing mindfulness meditation to battle his cancer. “I’ve had times where I can meditate the spasm away.”
51:15 – The importance of being intentional with trying to be better. “You have, inside you, the answers.”
59:40 – What Jim believes his purpose to be.
64:41 – How you can support Jim.
Connect with Jim and support his work:
Twitter: @jimbutton
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/jimbutton
IG: @villagebrewery
FB: www.facebook.com/villagebrewery/
Village Brewery: www.villagebrewery.com
Jim’s blog: www.gatherwithjim.com
Superjocks: www.gatherwithjim.com/blog/2016-5-4-superjocks-are-super
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today, the show struts its stuff as world-renowned fashion designer and entrepreneur Nina Kharey joins the program! As the Founder and Designer of luxury clothing line NONIE and eco-conscious scrub brand Folds, and having worked with high profile clients like Meghan Markle and Sophie Trudeau, Nina provides eye-opening insights into the fashion industry, as well as what it took for her work to survive and thrive during the pandemic. Join Hafiz and Gilbert today as they speak with Swarovski Canada Arts Emerging Designer of the Year award nominee and overall glowing personality Nina Kharey for a discussion about fashion, business, forgiveness, and “letting life do it’s thing.”
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Being born and raised in Calgary to two highly successful garment manufacturer parents.
[7:19] The traumatic event that gave Nina the courage to drop engineering for fashion and design.
[10:05] Recounting Nina’s meteoric journey in the clothing industry, and the huge “no”s along the way.
[16:29] How Nina was able to successfully reshape her business during the pandemic by focusing on healthcare workers.
[24:05] Nina shouts out the people and businesses who have helped her through the challenging times.
[28:56] Embracing the flow of life to stay happy and healthy.
[32:21] How an extremely difficult letter taught Nina to forgive her brother’s killer.
[36:12] Her mathematically intuitive process for making decisions.
[44:08] The simple things that makes Nina happy.
[48:18] Why she feels her purpose lives in services to others.
[49:44] Nina’s advice to struggling young people: “It’s in your hands.”
[51:40] How you can support Nina!
Connect with Nina and support her work:
Folds: www.foldswear.com
Nonie: www.noniewear.com
IG: @ninakharey
LinkedIn: ca.linkedin.com/in/nina-kharey-9453bb33
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today’s episode features a fun, enlightening, and surprisingly deep conversation about cookies. Erica Rankin was looking for a way to strike out on her own after a frustrating first foray into business, so, after a stint as a bodybuilder and a trip to Thailand, she pulled from one of her favorite past times and developed Bro Dough cookie dough, a “safer, healthier way to indulge in a childhood snack that you weren’t supposed to eat.” Since then, Erica’s business, reputation, and kitchen have grown impressively. Join Erica, Hafiz, and Gilbert as they discuss her unique entrepreneurial path, and what it takes to make it in the cookie business.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] From growing up on a farm in a loving household to navigating the rough waters of business.
[6:07] Erica’s decision to pursue entrepreneurship after learning about business-ownership first-hand in Thailand.
[8:58] Why she chose cookie dough for her first start-up.
[12:33] The painful processed of getting Bro Dough up and running from her home kitchen. “Gosh, I did all the things wrong at the beginning.”
[16:09] The people in Erica’s life who have helped her along her journey.
[18:42] Why Erica’s close circle changing was a challenge that proved to be a blessing in her life.
[23:25] Balancing being an “all or nothing person” with staying metnally and physically healthy.
[28:23] Why Arcade Syndicate has been a gamechanger for Erica.
[30:55] Why she doesn’t have any regrets, but would definitely do things differently if she could.
[32:52] Erica’s catalyst for wanting to connect with people after a period of self-isolation.
[37:31] Why Erica believes her purpose is to show people that anything is possible.
[42:07] A recent accomplishment with Bro Dough that she’s really proud of, and what’s in store for the business.
[46:19] How you can support Erica and Bro Dough.
Connect with Erica and support her work:
Grow With Erica: www.growwitherica.com
Bro Dough: www.brodough.ca
IG: @life0ferica
LinkedIn: www.ca.linkedin.com/in/ericabrodough
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. The guys are joined by Connor Curran and Dustin Paisley today to discuss how a fight with a washer machine led them to found “Canada’s most caring clothing company,” Local Laundry. Since 2015, Connor and Dustin have been on a mission to develop and provide garments for social good by producing Canadian-made clothing and collaborating with local socially- and environmentally-minded companies. They’ve done a pretty good job so far, having worked with local companies like the Calgary Flames, the CBC, and Shaw Communication, and raised over $70,000 for local charities in the process. Join Hafiz, Gilbert, Connor, and Dustin today for a conversation about vision, hustle, drive, and the importance of valuing one’s community.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Gilbert introduces Connor and Dustin.
[4:08] Dustin on being raised a proud Calgarian and learning how not to write himself off in university.
[7:55] The value of the network and experiential learning that Dustin gained at Mt. Royal University.
[11:44] Connor on the example set by his hard-working Irish immigrant parents set throughout his life.
[14:41] Connor and Dustin’s mission to donate over one million dollars to local charities by 2030.
[16:01] How Connor and Dustin met and how Local Laundry was founded.
[20:42] Persevering through the uneasy early days of launching their business.
[23:41] The importance of the close relationship that Local Laundry has with its customers and the Canadian entrepreneur community.
[31:08] How the challenge of COVID provided lessons that strengthened Local Laundry.
[36:59] Why opening their new warehouse has been a gamechanger.
[39:24] Becoming part of a global community as a result of embracing social media via their business.
[50:01] Sauna, sobriety, family – details on the wellness regimens that Dustin and Connor practice every day.
[56:47] Connor and Dustin on the impact that they want to have on the world.
[58:01] How you can support Local Laundry.
Connect with Connor and Dustin and support their work:
https://locallaundry.ca/
IG: @locallaundry
Twitter: @locallaundry
TikTok: locallaundry
YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSTG04j85DfTWGVIeUfrdUw
Proudly Made in Canada Podcast by Local Laundry: https://locallaundry.ca/pages/proudly-made-in-canada-by-local-laundry-podcast
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Former National Level Speed Skater, Nutrition Consultant, Leadership Coach, Founder of the Branch Out Neurological Foundation, and Health Lead and Head of Experience at Thin Air Labs, Crystal Phillips joins the guys today to discuss how the abrupt halt of her elite speed skating career due to a multiple sclerosis diagnosis ultimately led to her highly successful career in neurotherapy and venture capital. Crystal shares why she passionate about helping other people heal from neurological disorders through an entirely new field of neuroscience research focused on non-pharmaceutical approaches to treatment. Crystal’s work has earned her the wide acclaim, including being named one of 18 Canadian change makers by CBC Canada to celebrate Canada’s 150th, she made the Top 30 Under 30 by Explore Magazine in 2012 and Top 40 Under 40 by Avenue Calgary Magazine in 2016.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Hafiz introduces Crystal, who just got back from a trip to Africa!
[2:43] Crystal’s upbringing as a speed skater in a country town outside of Alberta.
[3:47] The positive influence that speed skating continues to have on Crystal’s life. “It’s always a part of me.”
[5:15] How overcoming multiple sclerosis led her to working with Branch Out, including raising over three million dollars to help fund neurological research.
[9:59] The community that helped Crystal get back on her feet and keep going through her illness. “I’m a sponge for inspiration.”
[13:35] Success stories from her start-up ventures as a part of Branch Out.
[15:33] Crystal’s criteria for making big decisions on what companies to invest in. “It’s all about the founder and the team.”
[17:36] Crystal’s holistic, three-point approach to her wellness regimen.
[22:20] What brings Crystal joy.
[23:59] How she manages to keep herself accountable.
[25:09] Crystal’s process for dealing with failure.
[26:35] The advice that Crystal may (or may not) give her younger self. “I also myself as a younger self.” And why she would highlight values to a younger person who is looking for guidance.
[32:01] Crystal shares the five values that guide her life.
[33:46] Why Crystal feels that her purpose is to find and promote other people’s strengths.
[37:25] The game changing advice that Crystal’s speed skating coach gave to her.
[42:49] How you can support Crystal and Branch Out!
Connect with Crystal and support her work:
Branch Out Neurological Foundation: https://www.branchoutfoundation.com/
Thin Air Labs: https://www.thinairlabs.ca/
LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/crystal-phillips-7296b932
IG: https://www.instagram.com/crystalpatches/?hl=en
Twitter: https://twitter.com/crystalpatches?lang=en
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today, Saawan Logan joins the show to discuss how a hike through the Canadian wilds sparked an idea to revolutionize the water industry. After immigrating to Canada by way of Fiji and Australia, and climbing the ranks in the Oil and Gas industry along the way, Saawan decided to carve her own path by founding North Water with the intention of bringing pure Canadian water to the world without the need for plastic water bottles. Saawan also speaks on the deep admiration that she has for her father, who continues to inspire her entrepreneurial drive. Join Saawan, Hafiz, and Gilbert for a conversation about immigration, family, the powerful effects of kindness, how and why North Water is on a mission to change the world one bottle at a time.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Gilbert introduces Saawan, who explains the mountain behind her.
[4:40] Growing up in Fiji with a highly motivational father.
[7:31] How hiking led to founding North Water, and why one’s early thirties are their formative years.
[11:45] Transition from oil and gas industry to owning her own business. “We have no history, and there’s something very exciting about that.”
[16:08] What forced Saawan to become “accidental entrepreneur” before she was 10 years old.
[19:28] Key gamechangers in Saawan’s life. “If you want to just be able to survive, you will do anything.”
[25:37] How Saawan’s family’s values shaped her driven mindset. “We are born to survive.”
[26:43] How meditation, nutrition, and working out every day make up her wellness regime.
[29:26] The changes she noticed in her community after her shift in industry.
[32:05] What living an intentional life means to Saawan.
[35:28] How Saawan deals with failure.
[40:25] Saawan’s advice to her younger self.
[41:38] What she is most proud of in her career so far.
[43:27] The strategy behind North Water “Drink out of the damn tap if it’s safe!”
[48:10] Saawan’s long list of role models. “If I wake up every day and want to live like somebody, I want to live like my dad has lived.”
[51:04] Why Saawan’s goal in life is to positively impact as many lives as she can.
[55:37] How you can support Saawan and North Water.
Connect with Saawan and support her work:
North Water: www.drinknorthwater.com
Saawan’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVdaEt7y5VGC7uPc-zW72fA
Other resources:
Phil Knight: Shoe Dog: https://www.amazon.com/Shoe-Dog-Phil-Knight/dp/1508211809
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Jared Sarbit joins the guys today to discuss his work as co-founder and CEO of Picture Perfect Cleaning, Calgary’s premier commercial janitorial services provider. He shares how with his company and his outlook on life he carries on the legacy of his wife’s father, who immigrated to Canada from Iraq and built a life for himself and his family in the janitorial industry. Join Jared, Hafiz, and Gilbert as they reflect on what it means to be an entrepreneur, and why community is the bedrock of success no matter what industry one is working in.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Hafiz introduces Jared, who details the big week that he’s had.
[2:55] Growing up as the “token Jewish kid” in Manitoba, and pursuing his entrepreneurial dreams.
[5:30] How his wife’s family’s story inspired him to build a janitorial company. “There are some very good people who are coming to this country.”
[8:50] Where his entrepreneurial drive came from. “I think it’s in my DNA.”
[10:22] Growing to love the janitorial business.
[13:48] Jared’s personal shame that has proved to be a blessing in his life. “I’m not good yet, but I certainly can ride now.”
[17:32] How Jared’s wife enlightened him to the importance of community.
[20:42] Why keeping it simple is Jared’s key to maintaining a positive outlook.
[23:46] Jared’s gut-based approach to decision-making.
[27:23] Why Michael Gerber’s The E-Myth Revisited was a gamechanger for Jared and his business.
[29:33] Jared shares the advice he would give his younger self, and what keeps him going during times of self-doubt now. “I’m experienced enough to now see the pattern.”
[34:19] “My primary purpose is to get my wife, my children, myself to Heaven.” Reflecting on purpose.
[36:41] How Picture Perfect Cleaning’s quick response to the pandemic inspires pride in Jared.
[40:20] How you can support Jared.
Connect with Jared and support his work:
www.pictureperfectcleaning.ca
www.michaelegerbercompanies.com/product/the-e-myth-revisited/
LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/jared-sarbit-9604a329
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today, mental health professional and social advocate Lana Bentley joins Hafiz and Gilbert to talk about her work as Director of Strategy at YW Calgary, Mount Royal University, and Alberta Health Services, as well as the pivotal moments in her life that led to her dedication to healthcare. Lana also details her extensive philanthropic and volunteer work, as well as her efforts to better her community by running for City Councilor Ward 6 in 2021. On top of all that, Lana tells us how and why she is preparing upcoming three-round boxing match that she is competing in for charity. Listen in as Hafiz and Gilbert find out what makes such a community-driven person tick.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Gilbert introduces Lana.
[2:35] “They were definitely pushing the margins!” Lana details her upbringing as a lifelong Calgarian with progressive minority activist parents.
[16:56] Lana shares a harrowing experience that proved to be a great blessing in her life. “When you’ve gone through a life and death experience yourself… you tend to look at things differently.”
[24:26] “Wellness, community, and connection: these things matter.” We learn how Lana’s health problems shaped her worldview, and how she turned her intentions into action.
[25:26] Lana highlights some of the most important parts of her physical and mental wellness regimen.
[35:07] Lana explains why her iPod and skiing are her can’t-live-with outs.
[39:05] We learn about the ins and outs of Lana’s unlikely and inspiring run for City Counsel in 2021.
[57:07] Lana tells us how we can help support the long list of community-building organizations that she is involved in (visit these links below).
Connect with Lana and support her work:
www.ywcalgary.ca
www.calgaryblackchambers.ca
www.youthcental.com
www.thesharpfoundation.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Today, Hafiz and Gilbert are joined by corporate leader, community advocate, international consultant, and one of Canada's most awarded social science graduate researchers, Jason Ribeiro. With a drive and passion for improving the lives of all Canadians, Jason serves on boards and committees within the Alberta Motor Association, Sport Calgary, Global Shapers Calgary, and Education matters, and he regularly represents Canada in international meetings. His current PhD research at the University of Calgary aims to assist organizational leaders in shaping, leading, and sustaining innovation efforts in cross-sector partnerships. It’s an impressive resume, but, as Jason says, all of his success stems from “a kid in his room by himself.” Join Jason, Hafiz, and Gilbert as they discuss the effort and intention that goes into Jason’s community enhancing work, and how he has battled his demons to pursue his purpose.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Hafiz introduces Jason, who explains why today is a very good day.
[3:23] Jason recounts his upbringing in Stoney Creek, Ontario as one of the only mixed race families in the neighborhood. “For me it was like fitting in almost nowhere.”
[9:15] “You’re forced to sort of reckon with ‘Who are you?’” Jason explores the effects that growing up in a tumultuous environment had and continue to have on him.
[13:08] Jason details how taking responsibility for his life and substance abuse problems while attending University impacted him deeply.
[16:18] Jason outlines the work he is doing now as a Researcher at the University of Calgary, and the support of his wife has always been crucial to his success.
[22:32] “We’ve seen the tragic cases of what happens when you get things too early.” We learn what challenges Jason has faced that have proven to be blessings in disguise.
[26:58] Jason details how he balances his time with such a busy and varied schedule.
[30:20] Jason highlights the people in his life who helped him turn his life around.
[36:04] “You don’t know the impact that you can have.” Jason discusses the responsibility of being a role model.
[40:43] Jason shares the three pillars of his wellness regimen.
[46:36] We hear about the small group of people who inspire Jason.
[50:40] “Growing how I grew up, this was so unattainable for me.” Jason share’s the accomplishment that he is most proud of.
[54:33] Jason speaks on what purpose means to him, and what his last moment in life will feel like if he serves his purpose well.
[60:26] Jason closes the episode by letting us know how we can support his work and each other. “Be kind.”
Connect with Jason and support his work:
Twitter: @jason_ribeiro
IG: @_jasonribeiro
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Maeghen Cotterill joins the guys in today’s episode to discuss her work as a martial arts competitor and instructor and entrepreneur. As a lifelong martial artist with Black Belts in multiple disciplines and 11 Gold Medals in Kickboxing and Sport Karate, Maeghan is no stranger to extremely hard work. She has dedicated her life to helping martial artists of all backgrounds to hone their skills and spirit and achieve their goals by owning and operating 5 Elements Martial Arts, the largest martial arts school in Canada, serving as the World Kickboxing and Karate Union Team Canada President, and coaching Team Canada athletes since 2005. In addition to her work in the gym, Maeghan serves as a Board Member for Pace Kids, Ambassador for Fast and Female, and Board Memeber for the fundraising gala committee for the Canadian Cancer Society. Her work and philanthropy efforts earned her the Agent of Change Award for Green Sparrow Care and a placing in Avenue Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40 in 2016.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Gilbert introduces Maeghen, and she tells us why the lyrics from Darius Rucker’s “If” are on the wall in her bedroom.
[4:55] Maeghen tells us how being a “gangly, uncoordinated kid” who was being bullied every morning at the bus stop led her to join a martial arts gym at eight years old.
[8:49] “Karate was the hardest thing I’d ever done. I wasn’t good at it.” Maeghen walks us through her journey through adolescence as a martial arts practitioner.
[16:02] Gilbert and Maeghen reflect on the benefits they have gained as adults from training in martial arts when they were kids.
[17:29] “It has been one of the most painful and rewarding things that I’ve done in my life.” Maeghen marvels at the challenges and triumphs that she faced when starting her own business (at nineteen years old!).
[20:55] We learn how in the world Maeghen manages to keep herself healthy in mind and body with such a challenging lifestyle. “One of my non-negotiables is remembering why I do what I do.”
[27:27] Maeghen shares what advice she would give to her younger self.
[30:18] We hear how pushing herself and helping others, especially female business owners, drives Maeghan every day.
[32:16] “I really want to pursue those things and find that balance so that I feel like a whole person.” Maeghen discusses how she balances being a mom and all of the professional and philanthopic projects that she is involved in.
[38:00] “Honestly, laughing with a friend for a night over a glass of Prosecco can cure a lot.” Maeghen shares how she deals with painful and challenging moments.
[42:31] Maeghen explores what she believes her purpose to be.
[50:00] We learn how Maeghen digging into her spirituality has developed a deeper perspective on herself and the world around her.
[55:00] “I look up to a lot of people!” Maeghen honors her role models.
[57:46] Maeghen lists the long list of wonderful projects that she is working on right now, and how you can support them
Connect with Meaghen and support her work:
WKU Canada and 5 Elements
www.5elementscalgary.com
www.wkucanada.com
IG: @wkucanada
IG: @5elementsMA
STAND
https://standasa.com/
IG: @stand.asa
PaceKIDS
https://pacekids.ca/
IG: @pacekids
Calgary Police Foundation
https://yycyouthfoundation.ca/
Fast & Female @fastandfemale
https://fastandfemale.com/
Trellis
www.growwithtrellis.ca
IG: @trellisyyc
Personal
IG: @ninjagirlmma
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today, the highly accomplished Dr. Lisa Belanger, PhD, EMBA, CSEP-CEP joins the show to discuss her work in behavior change and health behaviors. As the CEO of ConsciousWorks, host of the Work Less, Produce More podcast, founder and president of the Knight’s Cabin Cancer Retreat, and mother of two, Dr. Lisa is highly driven to empower people around the world to make positive health behavior changes. In this episode, she, Gilbert, and Hafiz discuss the ever-evolving science and culture of healthy living, and how they strive to cultivate healthier practices physically and mentally within their own lives.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Hafiz introduces Lisa
[2:16] Lisa shares how helping a friend through a challenging time led her to a career in behavior change.
[3:14] Lisa discusses why the goal of her podcast, Work Less, Produce More is to explore the science behind becoming more effective and efficient in work.
[6:14] “Every single opportunity is a learning environment… and if you can figure out work ethic in whatever you’re doing, I think that’s a really important note.” Lisa discusses cultural shifts in cultivating a healthy relationship with work.
[9:42] We learn what trials and tribulations Lisa has encountered along her journey that have proven to be blessings. “I’ve stopped labeling things good or bad. They’re just things that happened.”
[13:13] Lisa weighs the benefits of planning versus having blind faith.
[16:46] Lisa discusses the enormous role that self-confidence plays in doing and delivering good work, and how she built and continues to build her self-confident.
[22:25] Lisa shares how the passing of two of her closest friends has shaped her view of death and the value of life.
[29:30] Lisa offers her strategies for becoming more empathetic.
[34:35] “Community is everything.” We learn who Lisa has leaned on for support and companionship throughout her entrepreneurship journey.
[39:31] Lisa goes over her gameplan for starting a new project.
[42:47] Lisa shares her physical and mental wellness regimen.
[47:52] We learn why Lisa has experienced difficulty with having role models throughout her life.
[:] “How can we really learn to unwork?” Lisa highlights the projects that she is most excited about working on right now.
Connect with Lisa:
www.consciousworks.com
www.drlisabelanger.com
www.knightscabin.com
IG: @drlisabelanger
Twitter: @drlisabelanger
Work Less, Produce More Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/work-less-produce-more/id1545493389
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today’s guest is on a mission to connect people. As the president of RNDSQR, a Sessional Instructor at the Haskayne School of Business, a voting board member of D.Talks, a partner at NHBR Coffee and No Island Co-Work, Alkarim Devani works hard to create sustainable homes and communities in Calgary. On top of all that, Al is a longtime friend of Hafiz and Gilbert. The trio reflect on growing up in Calgary together, and how their mindsets and drive have led them to the impactful positions that they hold today.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Gilbert introduces Al.
[2:18] Al reflects on being born and raised in the hood of Calgary as the son of East African refugee parents, as well as how the city has changed in concerning ways since then.
[5:18] Al, Gilbert and Hafiz reminisce on growing up together.
[9:22] Al discusses his joyous and challenging experiences in high school and university.
[15:27] “I think [my mom] taught me at a really young age about the dynamics of being a positive person.” We learn how Al’s mother helped guide him to a healthy and passion-focused path.
[20:16] “If you can’t find a way to celebrate with the team that you’re with, nobody’s going to want to stick around.” Al shares his struggle to balance the chip on his shoulder that drives him with the need to cultivate positive energy.
[26:42] Al recalls an unsuccessful experience with a high-performing tech startup early in his career that proved to be a blessing. “It was a good ego kick.”
[34:01] Al shares how he keeps his mind and body healthy with such a work-intensive lifestyle.
[41:03] Al discusses the challenges and joys of working with his older brother.
[44:23] Al shares the resources that he pulls from to continue to learn how to be a better leader.
[47:05] “Nothing really hits home until you’ve learned something through experience.” We learn what advice Al would pass onto his younger self if he could.
[53:33] Al shares what he believes his purpose to be.
[61:33] Al closes the episode with a call to support immigrant families.
Connect with Al:
www.alkarimdevani.com
www.rndsqr.ca
Twitter: @devanialkarim
IG: @alkarimd
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. As a highly accomplished and decorated professional hockey player, today’s guest, Dampy Brar, knows the value of hard work, dedication, and, a supportive community. He shares with Hafiz and Gilbert how the examples that his Indian immigrant parents and others in his neighborhood set throughout his life, combined with his passion for excelling in Hockey, led him to becoming a stand-out player in the IHL, ECHL, and WCHL where he played in three All-Star Games. Now retired, Dampy tells us about his commitment to Apna Hockey, a South Asian based Hockey network that he founded to connect and mentor South Asian Hockey talent, which has garnered him the prestigious Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award. Join Hafiz, Gilbert, and Dampy for a conversation about what it means to pursue your passion while helping others pursue theirs.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Dampy describes the hard work and perseverance that it took for his parents to migrate from India to Canada.
[8:12] Dampy shares what life was like for him growing up in Sparwood, B.C., and how he developed his passion for hockey.
[10:06] “It did make you want to work harder and excel, too, to show them that we, as a community, can excel at these sports.” We learn how Dampy coped with being a minority in a typically caucasian sport, even in the face of blatant racism.
[20:16] “When they see a person like me who can speak the language and who understands the culture, it’s easier for the kids to listen and to get more love for the game.” Dampy discusses how his goal of giving more Southeast Asian children opportunities to play and learn about hockey led to him founding the Apna Hockey program.
[24:42] Dampy recounts how it felt to win the Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award, and his excitement over the new doors that the award is opening for Apna Hockey.
[31:34] We hear about the responsibility that Dampy feels to be a good role model.
[37:09] “When you have a responsibility, and wanting that responsibility, it doesn’t become work. It becomes a way of life.” Dampy describes how he stays focused on his goals with so many irons in the fire.
[40:39] “Just keep going.” Dampy shares the widsom that he would like to impart upon his son/younger self.
Connect with Dampy and Apna Hockey:
IG: @dampy.brar
Apna Hockey IG: @apnahockey
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today, the multi-talented Raj Sahota joins the show! Known to many around the world as Raj Singh, Raj is a professional wrestler on a mission to entertain the masses and use his platform to help troubled youth lead better lives. He also happens to be a childhood friend of Gilbert and Hafiz, and he explains how and why he has managed to be the same down-to-earth guy that they knew when they were kids, despite the glitz and glamour of his day job, as well as what drove him to fully pursue his childhood passion. Join us for this fun and enlightening discussion with the great Raj Sahota.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Gilbert introduces Raj, who strides in looking like Macho Man Randy Savage.
[2:11] Raj shares the ins and outs of working for Impact Wrestling.
[5:43] “I knew that I wasn’t going to be a school kind of guy. I was going to be a wrestler through and through.” We learn about Raj’s upbringing, and how he knew very early that he wanted to be pro wrestler.
[7:52] Raj tells us about his father, The Great Gama, one of the greatest pro wrestlers to ever do it, wo wrestled under the Stampede Wrestling promotion in Calgary.
[11:06] “No matter what it was that I did, I always put 100% belief in myself. But I also was realistic.” Raj shares the mindset that has made him successful in a professional where many others have failed.
[16:12] “You either win or you learn.” Raj details a series of career setbacks that he was able to turn into better opportunities for himself thanks to his mindset.
[20:35] We learn what Raj loves about the art and entertainment aspect of pro wrestling.
[26:07] “I remind myself every day that if I don’t get better, there’s someone else coming up who wants my spot.” Raj discusses the meticulous regimen he maintains to stay healthy physically and mentally.
[28:26] “How much time you got, buddy?” Raj reflects on the advice he would give his younger self.
[30:29] Raj discusses the work he is most proud of: the Royal Hockey League.
[34:02] We learn how seeing one of his biggest heroes failing served as a game changer for Raj’s life.
[36:14] “They need to know that they’re not alone.” Raj shares the impact that he wants to leave upon the world.
Connect with Raj:
IG: @truerajsingh
Twitter: @truerajsingh
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. The duo is joined today by President and CEO of RJS Capital, Inc., and Co-founder of Bloom Benefits Group, Ranny Shibley. The highly successful businessman discusses how growing up as the son of immigrant parents and an entrepreneurial father in the oil and gas industry helped give him the drive to develop his own business ventures. Now, as on of Avenue Magazine’s Top 40 Under 40, Oil and Gas Magazine’s Outstanding Businessman, the University of Calgary’s Upstanding Alumni; and a dedicated philanthropist with a wife and children of his own, Ranny shares valuable insights from his illustrious career.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[1:56] “Other parents would be calling my mom asking for her hummus recipe.” Ranny describes his unique upbringing as a fourth generation Calgarian with parents who were both born in Lebanon.
[4:37] “For the first time in my life people were judging me based on how I look.” Ranny shares how the attacks in America on September 11 were a pivotal moment in shaping his life.
[7:29] “I’m who I am because of my dad, I’m where I am because of my mom, and I’m what I am because of both of them.” We learn how Ranny extended his family’s entrepreneurial spirit by working with his father in the oil and gas industry, and then following his own personal drive.
[11:51] Ranny discusses his professional and personal relationship with his dad, and what he would like to pass onto his children.
[13:12] With so many irons in the fire, Ranny shares how he manages his time.
[17:43] “Always be flexible.” Ranny explains his outlook on continually being intentional.
[18:55] We learn why Ranny views his purpose as ever-evolving throughout his life.
[21:59] Ranny highlights his philanthropic organization Children’s Foundation of Alberta as the professional endeavor that he is most proud of.
[24:37] We learn what Ranny wants his impact on the world to be, and whether or not a political run could be in his future.
[26:39] “Nobody’s going to work harder for you than you.” Ranny shares the advice that he would give to his younger self if he could.
[29:45] We learn what Ranny did when he found himself unable to turn of his work-mode at all times, and how that helped him cultivate a more balanced lifestyle.
[33:11] Ranny highlights some of the people in his community who inspire him.
Connect with Ranny:
bloombenefits.ca
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today, one of Gilbert’s mentors Bill Roberts joins the show to discuss his prolific career of over forty years. Bill shares the winding road that led him to become CEO of Nobal technologies, including the valuable lessons he learned on his first job at McDonalds, as well as the valuable steps he took in operations and executive roles at technology, storage, engineering, construction, and development companies. Join us in this episode to learn what makes such a successful businessman tick.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Gilbert introduces Bill with a brief rundown of his illustrious career.
[1:49] We learn about Bill’s early life in Leduc, Victoria, Edmonton, and Calgary.
[3:29] Bill shares how meeting Ray Croc during his first job at McDonald’s prepared him for the rest of his professional life.
[8:36] “It felt like 4,000 below with a 400 mile an hour wind and I realized at that point I don’t think this is what I want to do.” Bill lists the huge variety of jobs that he has taken on before landing in what he now calls his “third retirement.”
[13:01] Bill reflects on the value of working manual labor before entering the operations side of business.
[15:10] “In the early days, I think I was probably a blend of arrogant and silly or stupid.” We learn how Bill dealt with Imposter Syndrome early in his entrepreneurial career.
[17:48] “A business doesn’t survive without the people.” Bill explains his views on the supreme importance of partnering with good people.
[20:29] Bill explores the (often tough) realities of working closely with family.
[24:13] We learn the one and only priority that Bill has in his wellness regimen.
[28:44] “At the end of the day, I would say that Bill’s journey has been one of trials and tribulations… and part of that journey is that I’m thankful… My hero would probably be my wife.” Bill reflects on what he believes his purpose in life to be.
[30:46] “I think it’s a bit of a give and take.” Bill speaks on (but does not give advice on!) having being in a relationship as an entrepreneur.
[34:08] “There was nothing that was going to stop us.” Bill shares the story of a setback that he experienced in his youth that proved to be a blessing later in his life.
[37:37:17] Bill again praises his wife, Helen, when explaining how he perseveres through setbacks.
[39:01] Bill explains the value of strong mentorship and coaching.
[43:14] “Appreciate just the basics.” Bill closes the episode by sharing what he wants to accomplish with the rest of his life.
Connect with Bill and learn more about Nobal Technologies:
www.nobal.ca
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today, Hafiz and Gilbert speak with registered Health and Nutrition Coach, mother of two, and lifelong Calgarian, Sam Wong. In a discussion about following one’s heart, Sam shares how she found her way into doing what she loves for a living after working in a vast array of industries. Now, as a passionate fitness professional, she strives to help make the world a healthier and happier place, one client at a time. Join her, Gilbert, and Hafiz today to find out how.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Hafiz introduces Sam with a rundown of her career highlights.
[1:39] Sam gives us an overview of her life as a born and raise Calgarian, and the twists and turns her career path has taken.
[3:11] “I think it just comes down to what is driving you in the moment based on what’s happening in your life.” Sam shares how maintaining an adaptable mindset has given her the confidence to reinvent herself throughout her career.
[9:57] We learn how major life changes motivated Sam to transition from working in technology to nutrition. “It’s not just me anymore!”
[16:04 9:57] “I just had this very strong vision.” Sam shares what drove her to develop her business in her own way no matter what, and trusting her niche to develop itself during the process.
[20:39] Sam delves into the challenges that she faced when starting her company. “Are people just going to think ‘Oh, what a cute little side job Sam has now!’?”
[25:01] Sam explains her fitness and nutrition non-negotiables.
[30:44] “Don’t think that you’re stuck in this.” Sam shares the advice that she would give to her younger self if she had the chance.
[35:47] We learn what brings Sam joy!
[39:40] Hafiz, Gilbert, and Sam discuss different ways to keep themselves accountable throughout the work week.
[41:58] “You’re being uprooted from the life that you have.” Sam reflects on an event in her life that felt difficult and challenging at the time, but ended becoming a positive pillar in her life.
[43:48] Hafiz asks Sam what impact she wishes to leave on the world.
Connect with Sam:
www.livewellwithsam.ca
IG: @livewellwithsam
Email: contact@livewellwithsam.ca
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today, Dr. Rick Hu joins Hafiz and Gilbert to discuss his life, upbringing, and inspirational professional path. Dr. Hu is an orthopedic and spinal surgeon and a clinical professor in the Department of Surgery of the Cummings School of Medicine. He has founded or co-founded a television production company, a multi-disciplinary health clinic, a medical software company, an orthopedic surgical education platform, and a health analytics company. Join Hafiz and Gilbert as they find out just how Dr. Hu can be that accomplished.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Rick reflects on how immigrating from Taiwan to Nova Scotia to Canada at a young age affected him and his parents, and what it was like starting University at age 15.
[2:52] “I always said I couldn’t keep a job, and that’s probably correct.” Rick shares how bouncing around after medical school helped him find his professional passions.
[7:00] “You have to maintain some optimism for the future.” We learn how Rick continues to motivate himself deep into an enormously successful career.
[8:34] Rick discusses his efforts to uncover what he really wants now at 60 years of age after a lifetime of acting in a way that he believes was expected of him.
[9:35] “Being the foreigner, the person outside the fold, I did think that it did leave the scabbing – never feeling that you’re necessarily good enough or meeting the expecations of others.” Rick reflects on his experiences with bullying and racism growing up as the only minority in small towns.
[13:29] “This is the immigrant story.” Rick dives deeper into his reflections on his journey.
[15:10] “Your love will always grow, but the days don’t.” Rick shares his discoveries about the value of connecting with other people at this stage in his life.
[17:07] We learn why Rick thinks that some of the unkowns in daily life are more challenging than challenges like career obstacles or, in his case, battling colon cancer.
[19:54] “He has to be challenged and be worthy of that challenge.” Rick discusses what he sees as his purpose in life.
[22:45] Rick shares how he developed his entrepreneurial spirit, and where it has led him.
[24:52] We learn why Rick believes delegation is key to great leadership.
[27:50] Rick discusses how the optimism of his granddaughter and young entrepreneurs help keep his outlook bright.
[30:12] “There’s a difference between happiness and satisfaction with your life.” Rick shares his advice for life, the value of doing hard things, and how desires change over the course of one’s life.
[37:00] We learn who Rick’s influences are, and how they have changed over the course of his career.
Learn more about the Calgary Health Foundation at https://www.calgaryhealthfoundation.ca/
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today, Gilbert and Hafiz are joined by James Seigel, who is the co-Founder of AtVenu, a highly experienced startup engineer and architect, problem-solver, devoted father and husband, and Hafiz’s friend and mentor. In their discussion, James shares how he has managed to overcome enormous obstacles throughout his life, and why he wants to motivate everyone to just be themselves.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Hafiz introduces James and his long list of professional accomplishments.
[3:33] James shares details of his childhood growing up in the backwoods of a “really really small town called Creighton Mine.”
[5:29] Things get professional as James discusses his staggering career path.
[8:33] “You’re biggest problem is not building the product – your biggest problem is finding the market for that product.” James shares what motivates him to solve seemingly unsolvable problems.
[10:53] “Be the same person everywhere.” We learn James’s non-negotiables to living authentically.
[14:23] James tells us the story of his brain tumor, and why he named it Alan.
[23:01] James discusses how going through his brain tumor experience strengthened his relationship with his wife.
[27:20] We learn why James only feels comfortable relying on himself and his family, and why that paid dividends during the pandemic.
[37:50] “We don’t live as a village anymore.” Looking at his life objectively, James reflects on what he feels his purpose in life is.
[49:54] James tells us about his work with The Brain Tumor Foundation.
Support The Brain Tumor Foundation: www.braintumorfoundation.org
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today, Gilbert and Hafiz speak with former soldier, elite athlete, senior executive in banking, insurance and retail, and all-around man of the world, Tony McGrath. They discuss Tony’s incredibly unconventional career trajectory, and how he and his wife built their consulting practice, which focuses on leadership mentoring and building corporate cultures based on kindness, empathy, and self-awareness. Tony also delves into his faith and motivations, as well as what he believes holds many people back from what they are supposed to be doing. Join Gilbert, Hafiz, and Tony for an inspirational conversation about family and finding purpose.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Gilbert introduces Tony, and Tony introduces one of his upcoming ventures that he’s excited about.
[4:47] “I very much trust Universe to look after me… My resume can be considered a little spotty .” Tony shares his incredible personal and professional backstory.
[12:37] “I remember my grandma saying to me ‘Never grow old regretting.’” Tony shares his outlook on trying new things.
[18:23] “Let’s take a step back.” Tony discusses the power of revisiting our dreams.
[24:33] “The only way that I could get through was to have faith in something that wasn’t me.” We learn what drove Tony to develop his unique sense faith.
[30:27] Tony shares his non-negotiables when it comes to his wellness routine. “I think the key to aging backwards is not having stress and worry.”
[35:43] We hear Tony’s strategies for constantly adapting in a changing world.
[43:32] “How can you not learn and change when you’re in the presence of a man like that?” We learn who Frank is and the profound impact he had on Tony’s life.
[47:07] Gilbert and Hafiz ask Tony what piece of advice he would share with his younger self.
[52:06] We learn about “F*ck Up Nights!”
Connect with Tony:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tonymcgrath
IG: @tonymmcgrath
Twitter: @TonyMcGrathYYC
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today, Gilbert and Hafiz are joined by Sarah Lerner, who, on top of being Director of Investor Relations for Thinkific, founder of Home In a Field, and a yoga teacher, is the mother of five children. Sarah discusses how the devastation of being laid off during the pandemic motivated her to take on all those challenges, and how she manages to balance it all while maintaining a healthy mindset every day.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] We meet Sarah and learn about how she went to school, learned how to become a yoga teacher, became a sound therapist, climbed the corporate ladder in Calgary, founded her own energy consciousness company, and had five children, all within a twelve-year period.
[7:29] Sarah discusses the challenges of changing corporate culture when it comes to diversity and inclusion.
[8:14] “It just awoke this desire in me to create something.” We learn how being laid off was a catalyst for Sarah to ignite her entrepreneurial drive.
[9:28] Sarah shares some of her non-negotiables to keeping her well-being in check.
[14:42] “When I was going into work and feeling like it was not allowing me to be myself, I brought that home.” We learn what motivated Sarah to leave the relative safety of her corporate job for something less certain but more fulfilling.
[24:13] “I can be all these things. It doesn’t have to be defined by one way that helps other people define me.” Sarah discusses how letting all aspects of her personality and interests converge has led her toward more opportunities for work that she enjoys.
[27:04] We learn about how Sarah’s daily writing practice helps her hone her vision of having a positive impact on the world.
[29:28] Sarah shares the pearls of wisdom that she hopes to pass on to her children.
Connect with Sarah:
Check out a yoga and sound therapy class at Yoga Santosha (yogasantosha.ca)
Home In a Field: homeinafield.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today, performance coach and military veteran Vince Fowler joins Hafiz and Gilbert for a discussion about confronting and processing trauma through therapy. Vince shares his life openly and honestly, recounting the events that have shaped him, and how, despite being diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, he is living his happiest days now thanks to his family and business, Vince Fowler Performance Coaching.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] We meet Vince as he tells us why he hates hair.
[4:45] “What’s worse than getting picked on for me was watching somebody else get picked on.” Vince details how his life growing up in the small cowboy town of Williams Lake, BC led to him finding his true family in the Marines.
[11:10] “It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done.” Vince recalls how a serendipitous event started him down the road of processing his childhood trauma and post-traumatic stress through therapy.
[19:38] “I knew I wasn’t looking for a job, I was looking for a life.” We learn how Vince found his way from the military into performance coaching.
[30:38] Vince shares how he deals with the pressure of coaching.
[34:30] “You’ve always got a choice… Choose your hard. ” Vince discusses how the choice that he was presented with when diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder continues to push him to do better.
[40:05] “Suffering is just the price of admission for living a meaningful life.” – Professor Susan David. Vince shares what he wishes to pass onto his clients and children to break the cycle of trauma.
[51:12] We learn some of Vince’s non-negotiables when it comes to his well-being.
Connect with Vince:
www.vincefowler.ca
IG: @vincefowler
linkedin: linkedin.com/in/vincefowler
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Hello and welcome to Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today, Gilbert and Hafiz speak with 20-year financial industry veteran Michael Siervo. We learn about how Michael’s internationally bestselling new book, “F*ck It! Let’s Pivot: And Entrepreneur’s Guide To Surviving and Thriving in Crisis” was his way of dealing with the huge pivots that he and his peers had to navigate during the pandemic. Join us for an inspiring discussion about striving for healthy success in business and life.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Hafiz introduces Michael by running down the highlights of his long list of accomplishments.
[3:15] Michael explains why he sees himself as “a kid who refused to grow up and has always been curious.”
[4:20] We learn about how Michael’s past and present love of martial arts informs his professional career and personal life.
[6:16] Michael invokes the name of the great Mike Tyson to help explain the intention behind “F*ck It! Let’s Pivot.”
[9:30] “One thing this pandemic has taught us is that there is one shared pain.” Michael discusses what he he gleaned from interviewing entrepreneurs for his book, and why he believes everyone should think entrepreneurially.
[15:56] “You can plan as much as you want in life… but life is going to hit you, and nothing’s fair.” Michael recounts two pivotal moments from his life that taught him lessons that still guide him.
[20:24] Michael, Gilbert, and Hafiz discuss their childhood role models, many of whom are superheroes, and one of whom is Mickey Mouse.
[28:53] We learn why learning to walk for a second time is one of Michael’s “cookie jar moments.”
[31:23] Michael closes out the show by sharing what his purpose is and how he goes about fulfilling it every day.
Connect:
www.michaelsiervo.com
F*ck It! Let’s Pivot: And Entrepreneur’s Guide To Surviving and Thriving in Crisis: https://www.amazon.ca/Ck-Lets-Pivot-Entrepreneurs-Surviving/dp/1663235112
Twitter: @michaelsiervo
IG: @ready.set.rise
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Hello and welcome two Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today, Gilbert interviews Hafiz to continue kicking off the podcast. Hafiz shares what motivates him in a career full of highs and lows, and how his family life and upbringing have influenced his community-centric approach. Hafiz shares how growing up and feeling like an outsider and being bullied in Calgary built his resilience, and how that has helped him in his adult life personally and professionally. Join us as we learn what makes entrepreneur, philanthropist, and consummate learner Hafiz Mitha tick.
“Between two dots – really, the value is in that line: the journey.”
Episode Highlights:
[0:28] “We were so lucky to have family always around.” Gilbert introduces Hafiz, and we learn about how growing up in a multigenerational home with parents who worked hard to survive shaped his worldview.
[7:10] Hafiz discusses looking up to both his parents for their strong work ethic.
[12:35] We learn how Hafiz learned to adapt in school as a child who could not speak English, and how his parents went the extra mile to help him succeed through ESL.
[14:55] “I just embraced it.” Hafiz recounts how being bullied in middle school motivated him to empower himself to take control of his image, though this led to some of his biggest regrets from his youth.
[20:03] Hafiz details how post-secondary school became an opportunity for him to start walking his own path instead of pursuing what his father wanted him to.
[25:57] “What I learned from Joy is really to be true to yourself.” We hear about how Hafiz’s first forays into entrepreneurship led to him founding his first company, Joy Media.
[30:43] “One of the things I learned is that the more you are happy with yourself and secure in your own skin, you can let things go pretty easily.” Hafiz discusses his departure from Joy media and seeing how it has grown and changed without him.
[33:07] “Take the time to figure out what makes you tick.” Hafiz talks about his current passion, Play City, and what he’s excited about pursuing now, including his recent TED Talk.
Connect:
Hafiz’s IG: @hafiz_mitha
Hafiz’s TED Talk: youtube.com/watch?v=v4DlvJbj7gg
PlayCity: www.playcityapp.com
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.
Hello and welcome to the inaugural episode of Between Two Dots, hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong. Today, we get to know Gilbert, as Hafiz interviews him about his work, life, and drive to keep becoming a better version of himself. We learn how the husband and father of two balances home life with his responsibilities as the Co-Founder and President of wealth management firm Zelos Capital, Ltd., and what he has learned from his entrepreneurial efforts.
Episode Highlights:
[0:57] Hafiz introduces Gilbert as the two discuss strategies for balancing a busy schedule.
[4:05] Hafiz and Gilbert discuss the importance of reflecting on and coping with childhood trauma.
[7:53] We hear what typical day as the President of Zelos is like for Gilbert.
[12:21] Gilbert shares his employment history, and how he came to start his own wealth management company.
[14:10] “You can’t really fool yourself.” Gilbert reflects on creating opportunities in times of chaos, and how taking the plunge into entrepreneurship helps you find your true self.
[18:34] Gilbert recounts the serendipitous turn of events that led to him finding Zelos’s co-founder.
[32:40] “Sleep is the foundation of health.” We learn how Gilbert manages to stay sane with such a demanding professional lifestyle, and what he would like to change to do better.
[40:70] “Everyone needs a support system.” Gilbert passes along a lesson he learned from his experience during the pandemic.
Zelos Capital Ltd.:
Website: www.zelosglobal.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Zelos-Capital-Ltd-109939147334712/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zelosglobal/?hl=en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zelos-capital-ltd./
Gilbert Bong:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/gilbertbong
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.