WRLA Podcast: Recent Episodes
WRLA Inc.
myth, and who these programs actually help.-Why the Provincial Nominee Program is far simpler than most employers assume, and how it can get a worker a permit faster than an LMIA.- The difference between NOC and NAICS codes, and why job duties matter more than job titles. - What's at stake for small businesses when even a minor clerical error can get a work permit application refused .If you care about workforce planning, immigration policy, or just keeping your business compliant and competitive, this conversation is worth your time. Enjoy the show! Links: Ivanna Didyk: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/ivanna-yana-didyk-7a0a861b Barbican Immigration: https://www.barbicanimmigration.ca Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Learn more at www.hilinetreated.com This episode is also brought to you by Sexton Group, your partner in building stronger business, together. Learn more at www.sextongroup.com
and why it's changing how customers find brands they'd never have considered before. - How AI-driven search is quietly disrupting traditional loyalty and points programs. - How to write content that gets picked up by AI agents, not just customers. - Why hyperlocal marketing beats national campaigns, and what retailers get wrong about matching content to a community's life stage. - The real difference between an AI prompt and an AI agent, explained through a simple driving analogy. - Why staff experience, not flyers or branding, is what actually builds customer loyalty. If you care about e-commerce, AI in marketing, customer loyalty, and what it really takes to build a retail brand people trust, this conversation is worth your time. Enjoy the show! Links: Chris Parsons: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisaparsons/ Retail Rewired: https://retailrewired.ca/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by DeckRite Canada Sundecks – a smarter product for your yard. Learn more at https://deckritecanada.com/ Learn more at hilinetreated.com Also brought to you by Falcon Equipment – Ready when you are. Visit www.falconequip.com or contact your nearest branch today.
D. In this episode, you'll learn: - Why building envelope design has grown more complex (and what that means for builders and architects). - How infrared imaging and air barrier testing reveal whether a building was put together the way it was designed. - What Canada’s tiered energy code system means for the path to net zero construction. - How modern construction methods like panelization and offsite fabrication are reshaping (not replacing) the materials used inside the wall. - Why there is a growing conversation around passive survivability and resilience (hint: extreme weather). If you care about building science, energy code compliance, construction innovation, and what it really takes to build a durable, efficient building, this conversation is worth your time. Enjoy the show! Links: Johns Manville: https://www.jm.com/ Dwight Stone: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwight-stone-mba-cdt-3bb6b070/ Jesus Perez Orozco: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesus-perez-orozco-75046713b JR Babineau: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrbabineau Johns Manville (LinkedIn): https://www.linkedin.com/company/johns-manville Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Learn more at hilinetreated.com Also brought to you by Burrows Lumber. Proudly serving Western Canada and Ontario—Trusted for generations! Learn more at burrowslumber.com
Dan White, CEO and co-founder of Gentian, and Haleigh Callison, founder and CEO of Takoda Consulting and team lead for Cedar Sales at Western Forest Products, join Across the Yard to explore how satellite imagery and AI are changing the way we understand and manage forests. From identifying tree species at scale to detecting pest infestations before they spread, this conversation is a crash course in where forestry data is headed and why it matters. In this episode, you'll learn how species-level data can support forestry decision-making, why hyperspectral imagery could help detect pest infestations like mountain pine beetle earlier than ever before, and how satellite and AI-driven tools are starting to complement (not replace) established methods like LiDAR. Dan and Haleigh also dig into how this kind of data can support wildfire risk mapping, help Indigenous communities protect culturally and medicinally important trees, and inform emerging biodiversity policy like the UK's biodiversity net gain model. Along the way, they tackle common misconceptions about the forestry industry and make the case for why sustainability isn't just good ecology: it's good economics. If you care about forestry innovation, biodiversity data, Indigenous partnership in resource management, and where AI can genuinely move an industry forward, this conversation is worth your time. Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Dan White: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/daniel-white-environment Gentian: https://gentian.io/ Haleigh Callison: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/haleighcallison Takoda Consulting: https://takodaconsulting.com/ Sponsor info:This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by Sexton Group, your partner in building stronger business, together. Learn more at www.sextongroup.comThis episode of Across the Yard is also brought to you by HELI Canada – Giving Canadian Business a Lift. Discover dependable material handling solutions at heliforklift.ca.
can quietly backfire on your business, and how independent retailers can compete with big box stores without competing on price. You'll also hear why frontline staff like warehouse and back-of-store workers can make or break the entire customer experience, and how technology should (and shouldn't) be used to keep the human element in the equation. If you care about customer loyalty, staff culture, competing with big box retailers, and building trust with your customers, this conversation is worth your time. Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Marc Gordon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcgordondotca/ Website: https://marcgordon.ca/Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by Falcon Equipment – Ready when you are. Visit www.falconequip.com or contact your nearest branch today. This episode is also brought to you by DeckRite Canada Sundecks – a smarter product for your yard. Learn more at deckritecanada.com
CEO of CAREERS: The Next Generation, and Claudio Quinteros, Regional Manager, to explore how paid, school-supported internships are bridging that gap. In this episode, they discuss:• CAREERS does and how it connects high school youth to industry-based work experience • Why so many students don't know what career paths exist beyond university, and how parents and teachers shape (and sometimes limit) those choices • How CAREERS builds a youth talent pipeline for employers • The real success stories from inside the building supply industry • Practical realities of bringing on an intern: what funding is available, how Workers' Compensation Board (WCB) coverage works • The most common mistakes employers make (hint: treating an intern like a first-year employee). If you care about workforce development, youth recruitment, succession planning, and building a stronger talent pipeline for the building supply industry, this conversation is worth your time. Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ CAREERS: https://www.careersnextgen.ca/ Stefan Rutkowski: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefan-rutkowski/ Claudio Quinteros: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claudio-quinteros-20544a54/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by Burrows Lumber. Proudly serving Western Canada and Ontario—Trusted for generations! Learn more at burrowslumber.com Also brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Learn more at hilinetreated.com
Building something new sounds exciting until the market shifts, regulations change, the plan stops working, and you have to start again. This one gets into what it actually takes to build a Canadian manufacturing business and keep it standing when everything around you changes. Jesse Watson and Ryan Cullen join Liz Kovach to share the story behind Quik-Therm's evolution, from identifying a gap in the market to navigating code changes, rethinking products, and continuously adapting to create solutions that worked for both performance and practicality. In this episode, they discuss: • How Quik-Therm started and the original idea that launched the business • The challenges of building and scaling a manufacturing company in Canada • What happened when changing building codes forced them to rethink their entire product strategy • Why innovation alone isn't enough, and how adoption became one of their biggest hurdles • The role building science, education, and industry relationships played in growth • Why working on the business is just as important as working in it And a lot more! From product pivots and market uncertainty to building a culture that embraces change, if you're building, leading, or figuring it out as you go, there's something in this one for you. Let's get into it. Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Jesse Watson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jesse-x-watson-rsw-c-e-t-4273b267 Ryan Cullen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-cullen-4a516292/ Quik-Therm Insulation: https://www.linkedin.com/company/quik-therm-insulation-solutions/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HELI Canada – Giving Canadian Business a Lift. Discover dependable material handling solutions at heliforklift.ca. Also brought to you by Regal Ideas. Inspiring homeowners, one deck at a time!
Every equipment decision your operation makes carries real cost. The shift to electric forklifts is one of the biggest ones you'll face, and making it without the right information can set you back. This episode gives you the full picture. Shaun Casement, Director of Business Development at HELI Canada, joins Liz to break down: - What the switch from propane to electric actually costs - Why lithium batteries are becoming the industry standard - The mistakes most businesses make when transitioning their fleet - How electric equipment is improving efficiency and cutting maintenance costs - Why operator training matters more than the technology itself - Where automation and autonomous forklifts are taking the industry next Drawing on more than 15 years of experience in transportation and material handling, Shaun doesn't sugarcoat it - he tells it straight. If you manage warehouse operations, oversee a fleet, or want to stay ahead of where material handling is heading, this conversation is worth your time. Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Shaun Casement: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-casement-133b28378/ Heli Canada: https://www.linkedin.com/company/heli-canada/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by Sexton Group, your partner in building stronger business, together. Learn more at www.sextongroup.com This episode is also brought to you by Falcon Equipment – Ready when you are. Visit www.falconequip.com or contact your nearest branch today.
Building Centre: https://www.facebook.com/leaderhardwareACE/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by DeckRite Canada Sundecks – a smarter product for your yard. Learn more at deckritecanada.com This episode is also brought to you by Burrows Lumber. Proudly serving Western Canada and Ontario—Trusted for generations! Learn more at burrowslumber.com
Marketing is louder, faster, and more measurable than ever, but does that actually make it better? This episode is about building a brand people feel something for, not just one that converts. In this episode, Stephen Bailey, Chief Marketing Officer at John Fluevog Shoes, sits down with Liz to unpack what it really takes to stand out in today’s crowded market. Drawing on more than 20 years with one of Canada’s most unconventional retail brands, Stephen shares why differentiation isn’t about having the best price or product, it’s about having the courage to be distinct. From embracing “weirdness” and creative risk-taking to resisting the pressure to chase every trend, this conversation dives into the balance between data and instinct, short-term results and long-term brand building. They also explore how retail has evolved, why emotional connection still drives real loyalty, and how partnerships, community, and a strong founder influence continue to shape a brand’s identity. If you care about building a brand that stands out, creating meaningful customer connections, and thinking differently about marketing in retail or distribution, this conversation is worth your time. Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Stephen Bailey: linkedin.com/in/baileystephen John Fluevog Shoes: https://www.fluevog.com/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by Burrows Lumber. Proudly serving Western Canada and Ontario—Trusted for generations! Learn more at burrowslumber.co Also brought to you by Regal Ideas. Inspiring homeowners, one deck at a time!
Form Gala’s Women of Influence award. In this episode, you’ll learn what goes behind the scenes of what goes on in a family-owned business when transitioning ownership. You’ll learn how these ladies got to learn their role and how to support the business, especially when Marissa and Kristie pursued their own degrees outside of the building material industry. The importance of communication between the family and the team, and how that leads them to the success of the proud on-going legacy of a third-generation business. Along with the process of transition on both ends of the ladder, from modernizing internal systems to picking up and keeping relationships with previous customers and builders. If you care about business succession planning, transitioning into family-owned businesses, creating a strong team, and modernizing your business, this conversation is worth your time. Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Melissa Jensen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-jensen-05501914a/ Marissa Wolfe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marissa-wolfe-b9257096/ Swift Current Building Supplies: https://www.linkedin.com/company/swift-current-building-supplies-1970-ltd/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HELI Canada – Giving Canadian Business a Lift. Discover dependable material handling solutions at heliforklift.ca.
If you’re running a retail yard or building centre, you don’t have time for trends that don’t translate to the bottom line. This episode is about a model that has quietly delivered for nearly 50 years.Rob Forbes built Exchange-A-Blade Tool Company on a straightforward idea: contractors bring in used blades, get credit, and leave with remanufactured ones on the spot. No waiting. No landfill. Just a system that keeps jobs moving and brings customers back through your doors.In this episode, you’ll hear how the exchange model creates repeat traffic and gives dealers a clear, simple answer to “what do we do with used blades?” You’ll learn why in-store service still matters in a world of automated ordering and drop shipping. Rob also shares what decades of housing cycles have taught him about staying steady when construction slows and demand shifts to DIY.We also dig into what sustainability looks like when it’s tied to performance and profitability. From robotic manufacturing to recycling carbide shavings down to the last particle, this is about running lean, competing with global brands, and doing it as a Canadian company.If you care about margin, loyalty, and building a business that holds up through the ups and downs, this conversation is worth your time.Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Rob Forbes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-forbes-08846b352EAB Tool Company: https://www.exchangeablade.com/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HELI Canada – Giving Canadian Business a Lift. Discover dependable material handling solutions at heliforklift.ca.
Operations Lead at Northmark Materials Ltd., to explore the growing role of reclaimed wood in the supply chain. They dive into the process of reclaimed wood, how advocacy can play a role, and how this wood can be more accessible at a local level. They discuss how wood can be salvaged, processed, and reintroduced into the market, the importance of industry advocacy, and how reclaimed materials can become more accessible at the local level. Jay also shares plans for expansion into Calgary and eventually across Canada, and highlights the many applications for reclaimed wood, including siding, flooring, and furnishings. Tune in for an insightful conversation on reducing lumber waste and giving quality materials a second life. Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Jay Sanderson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-sanderson-80a6651a7/ Northmark Materials: https://northmarkmaterials.com/ Northmark Material’s white paper on “Infrastructure for Circularity”: https://northmarkmaterials.com/infrastructure-for-circularity/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HiLine Treated Wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Learn more at hilinetreated.com
Form Gala. Together, they share their journey into the industry through their family roots, what life as a lumber trader really looks like, and how WOLF (Women of Lumber and Forestry) was founded to create stronger representation, connection, and opportunity for women in lumber. This conversation offers an insightful, behind-the-scenes look at the lumber side of the industry and the women helping shape its future. Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Kaitlyn Chimko: linkedin.com/in/kaitlyn-chimko-17674a12 Lauren Chimko: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenchimko/ Dakeryn Industries: https://dakeryn.com/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by Brandt. Whatever you need to succeed, Brandt delivers. Let us do the heavy lifting. Learn more at brandt.ca Also brought to you by HiLine Treated Wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Learn more at hilinetreated.com
Doors. Take the next step to grow your business at durabuiltwindows.com Also brought to you by HiLine Treated Wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Learn more at hilinetreated.com
Mandy’s PD Session at the 2026 Showcase: https://supplybuildshowcase.ca/pd-trade-secrets/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HiLine Treated Wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Learn more at hilinetreated.com Also brought to you by Brandt. Whatever you need to succeed, Brandt delivers. Let us do the heavy lifting. Learn more at brandt.ca
Coach and Consultant at Humance, to explore the latest shifts in leadership, with emotional intelligence taking center stage. They also dive into what accountability really means and navigating through tough conversations and challenging situations with clarity and confidence. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about growth, resilience, and the everyday behaviors that make leadership feel more human. Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Eileen Dooley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dooleyeileen/ Wahaj Awad: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wahaj-awad/ Humance: https://humance.ca/ Humance's PD Session at the 2026 Showcase: https://supplybuildshowcase.ca/pd-real-leadership/Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by Brandt. Whatever you need to succeed, Brandt delivers. Let us do the heavy lifting. Learn more at brandt.ca Also brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Learn more at hilinetreated.com
Doors. Take the next step to grow your business at durabuiltwindows.com Also brought to you by Brandt. Whatever you need to succeed, Brandt delivers. Let us do the heavy lifting. Learn more at brandt.ca
Welcome to Supply-Build Canada’s first-ever Golf Confessional — a special Thanksgiving episode packed with laughter, stories, and a few surprises from this year’s golf tournaments. Whether it’s a secret swing tip, an unexpected victory, or a bit of on-course drama, we’ve gathered the best (and worst) golf moments from members and guests across Western Canada. Expect a mix of humor, honesty, and a few tales of golf-gone-wrong — all in good fun and completely anonymous. Tune in for laughs, lessons, and maybe a little redemption for your own game.
In the building supply industry, travel comes with the territory. Whether you’re a sales associate visiting job sites or a manager attending conferences, you’re often on the move because this industry thrives on connection and relationships. But what happens when the unexpected strikes on the road? Lost baggage, flight delays, or a medical emergency abroad — travel insurance can save you more than just stress; it can save you thousands of dollars! In this episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with Karley Middleton, Benefits Consultant at HUB International, to unpack the ins and outs of travel coverage for industry professionals. They break down how different policies work, share real-world examples of when travel insurance makes all the difference, and discuss how to protect yourself, your family and your team from costly pitfalls. Who it’s for: Anyone who travels frequently — from business development managers, sales professionals and account reps visiting customers, to business owners, finance teams managing travel budgets, and HR professionals overseeing employee policies. If your work takes you on the road more than you’re at your desk, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to travel smarter, safer, and more cost-effectively — wherever work takes you.Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Karley Middleton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karley-middleton-a8553a36/ HUB International: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hub-international-canada/
No matter the size of your operation, manufacturers face significant risks. The impact of a serious loss can be greater than in almost any other industry—Are you confident your facility is properly insured? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with Alex Hawkins, Underwriting Director at Federated Insurance, to explore and break down the evolving risk landscape manufacturers face. They dive into growing threats of cyber security and the use of AI in social engineering attacks, to the increasing frequency of natural disasters. They explore how the insurance industry is adapting to these modern challenges. Alex also shares insights into emerging trends, including a shift toward a partnership-based model between insurers and businesses; one that goes beyond simply covering costs to actively supporting risk prevention and recovery. Tune in to learn how to better protect your business and prepare for the unexpected. Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Alex Hawkins: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexhhawkins/ Federated Insurance: https://www.linkedin.com/company/federated-insurance-company-of-canada/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by Durabuilt Windows & Doors. Take the next step to grow your business at durabuiltwindows.com Also brought to you by Brandt. Whatever you need to succeed, Brandt delivers. Let us do the heavy lifting. Learn more at brandt.ca
Leadership is a journey – are you ready to lead? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with Blake Wheeler, former captain of the Winnipeg Jets, and Cody Miller, Director of Novus Global Construction Services & Executive Coach. Together, they explore Blake’s leadership journey, the experiences that drive his "why," and how he’s now helping leaders in both sports and business thrive through his work with Novus Global. The business world can learn a lot from the world of sport. What if we approached our work with the same focus on physical and mental performance as professional athletes do – showing up as our best selves every day? Coaches play a vital role in helping us reach the next level. Just as we invest in wellness coaches or personal trainers, we should also consider investing in mental performance and leadership development. We hope today’s podcast will inspire you to approach your leadership as a “muscle” that needs to be trained and encourages you to take the next step in your leadership development! Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Blake Wheeler: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blake-wheeler-5a378b332/ Cody Miller: https://www.linkedin.com/in/codymiller12/ Novus Global: https://novus.global/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by Brandt. Whatever you need to succeed, Brandt delivers. Let us do the heavy lifting. Learn more at brandt.ca Also brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Learn more at hilinetreated.com
What is your communication style? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with Genny Sacco-Bak, An instructor at University of Winnipeg PACE and owner of Coffee with Genny B Media. Together, they explore the many “flavors” of communication: from body language and public speaking to crafting impactful introductions and learning self-awareness. Genny also shares her insights from her work at the University of Winnipeg’s PACE program and Toastmasters as a communication instructor, along with her journey with her own podcast, Coffee with Genny B. Offering practical tips and personal stories along the way. Tune in and discover your flavor of communication! Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Genny Sacco-Bak: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gennyb/ Genny’s Podcast, Coffee with Genny B: https://open.spotify.com/show/1JHUoFtG8rfM3kRozG3hmV Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Learn more at hilinetreated.com Also brought to you by Durabuilt Windows & Doors. Take the next step to grow your business at durabuiltwindows.com
Ever wondered how your leadership style stacks up and how you can make it even better? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with R.M. Caligiuri, CEO, Lecturer, and Keynote Speaker at Caligiuri Leadership, to explore his unique approach to developing Conscious Intelligence (CQ) in leaders. R.M. shares his journey from a career in marketing and sales to coaching leaders across businesses of all sizes. He opens up about the challenges he faces when building authentic connections and guiding leaders, especially in the fast-paced marketing world, and the power of patience in cultivating meaningful relationships. Tune in for insights on how to level up your leadership—starting with yourself. Enjoy the show!Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ R.M. Caligiuri: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rmcaligiuri/ R.M.’s Website: https://www.calileadership.com/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by Durabuilt Windows & Doors. Take the next step to grow your business at durabuiltwindows.com Also brought to you by Brandt. Whatever you need to succeed, Brandt delivers. Let us do the heavy lifting. Learn more at brandt.ca
What does it take to go from zero experience to leading a sales team? Season 4 of Across the Yard is back! In this week’s episode, Liz sits down with Eric Dalton, Director of Sales and Business Development at DFM West Distribution, to explore his sales journey and the resilience it took to succeed in door-to-door sales. Eric shares his story, starting with zero experience and the lessons he learned navigating different industries while mastering the art of making a fast but lasting first impression. Tune in to listen to Eric’s journey from a newcomer in the business, to Director in the world of sales. Enjoy the show! Update on Across the Yard’s season schedule: Across the Yard will be uploading on a weekly basis up until July, where we will be taking a break between July and August, and will return on the first week of September. Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Eric Dalton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-dalton-17287790/ DFM West Distribution: http://dfmwest.ca/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by Brandt. Whatever you need to succeed, Brandt delivers. Let us do the heavy lifting. Learn more at brandt.ca Along with HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Learn more at hilinetreated.com
The future of Canada manufacturing has never been more unpredictable, so how are industry leaders adapting? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz sits down with Sid Tetz, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at CGC Inc. to explore how manufacturers are navigating today’s complex landscape. They dive into the realities of servicing different regions and rural communities across Canada, and the growing importance of advocacy within the industry. The conversation also covers Sid's perspective on the pressures of tariffs, the push for innovation at the jobsite to better support retailers and builders, and what it truly takes to meet Canada’s ambitious housing targets. Tune in to hear the latest insights in the Canadian manufacturing landscape. Enjoy the show! Notice: Across the Yard will be on break until mid-August. See you all soon! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Sid Tetz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sid-tetz-98a78124/?originalSubdomain=ca CGC: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cgc-inc-/?originalSubdomain=ca Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by Durabuilt Windows & Doors. Take the next step to grow your business at durabuiltwindows.com
Looking to transform your outdoor living space this season? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz sits down with Rob Mitchell, President and CEO of Vista Railing Systems Inc. And Rob Stewart, Office Manager of DeckRite Canada Sundecks Ltd. to discuss the latest trends in Canadian outdoor living. They explore regional preferences, underutilized products, and emerging trends in the industry. The conversation also touches on how contractors and dealers can maximize sales on these products, as well as the potential impact of aluminum tariffs on the market. Tune in to hear the latest trends in Canadian outdoor living in this week’s episode on Across the Yard! Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Rob Mitchell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-mitchell-50aa618/?originalSubdomain=ca Vista Railing System Inc: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vistarailingsystems/ Rob Stewart: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rstewart29/ Deckrite Canada Sundecks Ltd: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deckrite-canada-sundecks/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by Durabuilt Windows & Doors. Take the next step to grow your business at durabuiltwindows.com
What happens when a family’s journey across continents leads to a thriving business in Canada? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, we are joined by Rebekah Doerksen, Executive Assistant with Supply-Build Canada, as this week's temporary host, and Harry Sunner, owner of Durabuilt Windows & Doors, to talk about his journey from living in England to leading one of Canada’s most successful window and door companies. Harry shares how his family got into the industry, what it’s like growing a family-owned business, and the leadership lessons he's learned while scaling Durabuilt. They also explore the unique challenges of succession, innovation in a traditional field, and what it takes to stay resilient in a competitive market. Tune in to hear the unique journey of Durabuilt’s origins and growth in this week’s episode of Across the Yard. Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Harry Sunner: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/harry-sunner-3204a72b Durabuilt: https://ca.linkedin.com/company/durabuilt-windows-&-doors Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Learn more at hilinetreated.com
Every business, no matter big or small, deals with mundane, repetitive tasks. From processing invoices to managing warehouse & stock reconciliation. But what if you could handle all of that and focus on bigger projects at the same time? In this week's episode, Liz sits down with Mohan Mailvaganam, National Canadian Practice Leader at Xerox, to explore the company’s surprising evolution from a legacy printer brand to a provider of cutting-edge business solutions, with today’s focus on their Robotics Process Automation (or RPAs). They also dive into Xerox’s journey from expanding beyond printers, what RPAs are and how they work, and how any business, regardless of size, can benefit. Tune in to discover the latest innovation from an unexpected place. Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Mohan Mailvaganam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohan-mailvaganam-92833111/ Xerox: https://www.linkedin.com/company/xerox/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Learn more at hilinetreated.com
Did you ever imagine yourself in the building supply industry– or even owning a business in it? In this week's episode, Liz sits down with Rob and Joanne Lawrie, owners of The Lawrie Group of Home Hardware Stores, to hear the story of how they got started and built their business together. They talk about their early days, what it’s like running a company as a couple, and the challenges they faced along the way. Rob and Joanne also discuss their plans for the future, along with sharing advice for the next generation who are either hesitant about joining the industry or are already a part of it. Tune in to hear their inspiring journey in this week’s episode on Across the Yard. Enjoy the Show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/ Rob Lawrie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-lawrie-97ab4a3a/ Joanne Lawrie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanne-lawrie-456419264/ The Lawrie Group of Home, Home Hardware: https://thelawriegroup.ca/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by Durabuilt Windows & Doors. Take the next step to grow your business at durabuiltwindows.com
With the Canadian election now behind us, the building supply and construction industry has a brighter spotlight than ever before in the public eye. But what does the road ahead look like? In this week’s episode, Rodrigue Gilbert, president of the Canadian Construction Association, sits down with Liz Kovach to unpack the election results and explore what this means for the industry’s future. They touch on recent advocacy wins, what they hope to see from the government, and the biggest challenges that are currently facing this industry. They also dive into how government and communities can do better to address the labour shortage we are facing and how you can help drive that progress. Don’t miss this timely discussion on the opportunities, roadblocks and critical next steps shaping Canada’s construction and building supply landscape. Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.ca/Rodrigue Gilbert: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodrigue-gilbert-56950210/ Canadian Construction Association: https://www.cca-acc.com/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Introduce your customers to HiLine Treated wood – ideal for use in decks, fences, landscaping and general exterior construction, with its rich, natural tone, and no special fasteners required, it’s the ideal choice for outdoor projects. Combine this with a high-quality substrate, and West Fraser’s HiLine Treated wood delivers exceptional value to both dealers and consumers. Learn more at hilinetreated.com
Do you ever wonder how you can better connect with people? Why people are the way they are? Or how to improve the workplace culture? Are you aware of how much time the human brain spends in survival mode? (you will be shocked to hear the stat!!!) On this week’s Across the Yard, Liz sits down with Dr. Eugene K. Choi, a Neuroscience-Based Leadership Coach, to discuss the science behind the survival and executive state of the brain and how it influences our thoughts, behaviors, and interactions every single day. From workplace dynamics to personal relationships, they dive into the unconscious patterns that shape our reactions, and how becoming aware of them can help us grow, connect, and communicate better. Tune in to discover how understanding your brain can transform the way you see yourself and those around you. Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: supplybuild.ca Dr. Eugene K. Choi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eugenekchoi/ Eugene’s website: https://destinyhacks.co/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Introduce your customers to HiLine Treated wood – ideal for use in decks, fences, landscaping and general exterior construction, with its rich, natural tone, and no special fasteners required, it’s the ideal choice for outdoor projects. Combine this with a high-quality substrate, and West Fraser’s HiLine Treated wood delivers exceptional value to both dealers and consumers. Learn more at hilinetreated.com
All it takes is a spark to lose everything. So, what can we do to better protect our homes from fire?This week, Liz welcomes Mike Baker, CEO of BarrierTek, and Ewan Davie, Vice President of Sales, to break down the science behind engineering fire-resistant treatments. They share the research that led to them to create this innovative treatment, challenges they've faced, their upcoming plans for BarrierTek, and much more!Tune in to this week’s episode to discover the science behind preventing fire in wood construction.Enjoy the show!Links: Supply-Build Canada: supplybuild.ca Supply-Build Canada Support Local Campaign - find local building supply retailers near you: supplybuildcanada.info/shoplocal BarrierTek: https://www.barriertek.com/ Mike Baker: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelryanbaker/ Ewan Davie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ewan-davie-6b035747/Sponsor info:This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales.Introduce your customers to HiLine Treated wood – ideal for use in decks, fences, landscaping and general exterior construction, with its rich, natural tone, and no special fasteners required, it’s the ideal choice for outdoor projects. Combine this with a high-quality substrate, and West Fraser’s HiLine Treated wood delivers exceptional value to both dealers and consumers.Learn more at hilinetreated.com
It has been a perplexing week to say the least. For weeks Canada has been accused of many things and we fully expected sweeping tariffs to be implemented on the 2nd, however Canada and Mexico did not make it onto the sweeping list of announcements on April 2nd, yet there is no real sense of relief, and the uncertainty continues. As a business, it’s impossible to chart a course when the road map continues to change. Don Humphrey joins Liz Kovach to help shed light on where we are now, what may unfold and where some potential opportunities lie for Canada. While we don’t have a crystal ball, there may be some positive outcomes for Canada as we navigate the through the chaos as a country. Enjoy the show!Links:Supply-Build Canada: supplybuild.caSupply-Build Canada Support Local Campaign - find local building supply retailers near you:wrla.org/shop-local.htmlSexton Group Ltd: sextongroup.com/Sponsor info:This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser.Elevate inventory, elevate sales.Introduce your customers to HiLine Treated wood – ideal for use in decks, fences, landscaping and general exterior construction, with its rich, natural tone, and no special fasteners required, it’s the ideal choice for outdoor projects. Combine this with a high-quality substrate, and West Fraser’s HiLine Treated wood delivers exceptional value to both dealers and consumers.Learn more at hilinetreated.com
Housing affordability has been a prominent topic of discussion for many years, but are we actually taking steps to get there? On this week’s bonus episode of Across the Yard, host Liz Kovach, Jim Tobin President & CEO of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) and Kevin Lee CEO of the Canadian Association of Home Builders (CHBA) discuss the current climate of affordable housing and the direction it's heading both in Canada and the United States. Tariffs, duties, building codes, are just some of the items on the immediate horizon that will impact the economy and housing affordability. Tune into this in-depth episode to gain perspective from both a Canadian and American view. Enjoy the show! Links: Supply-Build Canada: supplybuild.ca Supply-Build Canada Support Local Campaign - find local building supply retailers near you: supplybuildcanada.info/shoplocal National Association of Home Builders (NAHB): https://www.nahb.org/ Canadian Association of Home Builders (CHBA): https://www.chba.ca/ Sponsor info: This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Introduce your customers to HiLine Treated wood – ideal for use in decks, fences, landscaping and general exterior construction, with its rich, natural tone, and no special fasteners required, it’s the ideal choice for outdoor projects. Combine this with a high-quality substrate, and West Fraser’s HiLine Treated wood delivers exceptional value to both dealers and consumers.
At some point, we all encounter broken glass. Whether we break it, someone else does, or it breaks on its own, what solution do we have to solve that problem? To make it stronger, of course!This week on Across the Yard, Liz Kovach and Vince Croker discuss the thought process and motivation behind creating unbreakable glass, the possible impacts of tariffs, how insurance plays a role, and how ROCKGLASS can transform community and public spaces.Tune in to discover how much actually goes into this innovative technology.Enjoy the show!Links: Supply-Build Canada: supplybuild.ca Supply-Build Canada Support Local Campaign - find local building supply retailers near you: supplybuildcanada.info/shoplocal ClearSecure: https://rockglass.ca/Sponsor info:This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales.Introduce your customers to HiLine Treated wood – ideal for use in decks, fences, landscaping and general exterior construction, with its rich, natural tone, and no special fasteners required, it’s the ideal choice for outdoor projects. Combine this with a high-quality substrate, and West Fraser’s HiLine Treated wood delivers exceptional value to both dealers and consumers.Learn more at hilinetreated.com
We often hear that the Canadian economy is built on small to medium sized business, but they face some of the largest challenges to thrive and prosper. Join us as Peter Turkstra, owner of Turkstra Lumber and industry advocate, joins Liz Kovach on this episode of Across the Yard to talk candidly about the issues impacting his retail business in Ontario. The building supply sector is a significant employer and contributor to the economy across the country, but it’s often overlooked by government. To achieve affordable housing in Canada, government at all levels must engage with all facets of the construction industry to understand how their policies and bureaucracy have a negative impact and create obstacles. Many of our independent retail members will likely relate! With more tariffs looming, it is critical for government to work with industry to remove barriers to successful business. Enjoy the show!Links:Supply-Build Canada: supplybuild.caSupply-Build Canada Support Local Campaign - find local building supply retailers near you:wrla.org/shop-local.htmlTurkstra Lumber: https://turkstralumber.com/Sponsor info:This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser.Elevate inventory, elevate sales.Introduce your customers to HiLine Treated wood – ideal for use in decks, fences, landscaping and general exterior construction, with its rich, natural tone, and no special fasteners required, it’s the ideal choice for outdoor projects. Combine this with a high-quality substrate, and West Fraser’s HiLine Treated wood delivers exceptional value to both dealers and consumers.Learn more at hilinetreated.com
Let's Talk TariffsUnderstandably, tariffs are at the top of everyone's mind right now. On again, off again, on again - it's incredibly hard to keep track of and, if you're a business owner, especially in the building materials industry, it's making it tougher than ever to make the right decisions. The spreading of misinformation and more voices than ever in the conversation, with varying degrees of trustworthiness, doesn't help, either. In times like these, it's great to be able to rely on experts in the field who can look at the whole situation and present some grounded perspective.This week, Liz welcomes Don Humphrey, National Commodity Wood Manager for Sexton Group Ltd, one of the industry's major buying groups. Together, they discuss the story so far, what to expect now that we've got a new prime minister and an election on the way, and why everyone is watching the negotiating table so closely.Don shares some insights on how these tariffs are lining up with the buying cycle, and what the newest tariffs on steel and aluminum mean for the average lumber yard as well as other impacts we're likely to see if the situation continues. Finally, Liz and Don talk about how supporting local is more important than ever. It's a great conversation on a very tough subject, and we can't thank Don enough for sharing his experience with us once again!Enjoy the show!Links:Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.caSupply-Build Canada Support Local Campaign - find local building supply retailers near you: https://wrla.org/shop-local.htmlSexton Group Ltd: https://sextongroup.com/Sponsor info:This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Introduce your customers to HiLine Treated wood – ideal for use in decks, fences, landscaping and general exterior construction, with its rich, natural tone, and no special fasteners required, it’s the ideal choice for outdoor projects. Combine this with a high-quality substrate, and West Fraser’s HiLine Treated wood delivers exceptional value to both dealers and consumers. Learn more at https://hilinetreated.com
The Building Supply Industry is vast, and there are more options than ever for materials and finishings. So how does a new company break through? How do they bring their product to market and stand out from the crowd?This week, Liz sits down with Dean Petrillo and Kristyna Traynova from ABI Mouldings to hear their story. They discuss the beginnings and growth of the company, including how attending Supply-Build Canada events last summer as hole sponsors helped get their name out to the industry in a big way. But wait - there's more! Liz, Dean, and Kristyna get into discussions on recruiting, bringing young people into the industry through internships, and what the growth trajectory of a new employee can, and often should, be. There's also a very special mystery guest that pops in at some point, but we won't spoil the surprise. Enjoy the show!Links: Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.caABI Mouldings: https://createwithabi.caen
What is the secret to being a great leader? When hard work is a given, what else do successful CEO's, coaches, and management do to lead their team forward?To begin to answer these questions, we invited Kevin Eastman, who coached the Boston Celtics to a World Championship in 2008, about what it takes to make the best The Best. He's also the author of the bestselling book. "WHY THE BEST ARE THE BEST: 25 Powerful Words That Impact, Inspire, and Define Champions"Liz and Kevin talk about the work that great leaders put in to elevate their game, how to approach the tough conversations that come with the territory, and a few of the 25 powerful words that can change how you approach your own career, starting today. It's all happening on this week's episode of Across the Yard. Enjoy the show!Links:Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.caKevin Eastman: https://kevineastman.net/Why the Best Are the Best - Book Orders: https://kevineastman.net/book-orders
Technology is top of mind for everyone these days. It's changing the way we do everything, including retail.Diego Mazzone is on the show this week with Liz to talk about the advancements in the retail space that are using tech to elevate the in-store shopping experience. The inventory and pricing automations that JRTech Solutions offer with their electronic shelf label systems are freeing up employees to spend more time getting to know their customers and less time looking for product pegs and shelf locations. Customers are enjoying many of the benefits of the online shopping experience, combined with that in-person connection and care that only other humans can provide. It's great news for business owners and customers alike - and it makes for a fascinating conversation. Enjoy the show!Links:Supply-Build Canada: https://supplybuild.caJRTech Solutions: https://www.jrtechsolutions.com
Welcome to Season 3!Across the Yard is back for our new season with new interviews, new topics, a new brand, and we’re ready to rock n’ roll!Kicking things off, Liz welcomes performance coach Travis Thomas, author of “3 Words for Getting Unstuck: Live Yes, And” and his latest, “Confidence is Overrated: Why Courage is the Antidote and Feelings Make Cowards of Us All.” Liz and Travis discuss his background in improvisation, and how it led to a life-changing realization about how to approach challenges and changes. Then, they get into how courage, not confidence, is what can be counted on to win the day.It’s an inspiring and thought-provoking episode as we kick off 2025 on Across the Yard. Enjoy!Links:Supply-Build Canada (formerly WRLA): https://supplybuild.caBook Travis: https://www.liveyesand.com/book-travis
2024 is coming to a close, and what a year it's been!Liz, Amanda, and Chris from the WRLA team take a moment to look back on some highlights from the year, including the roll out of our new Building Material Fundamental Suite, our many new Affiliate partnerships, and our ever-present commitment to helping our members be successful.Then, we look ahead to 2025, and the upcoming WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase, and the reveal of our new brand. As of this episode, Across the Yard will be on a break until after the Showcase. We'll see you in 2025, and from all of us on the WRLA team, we wish you and yours the very best for the holiday season.
Let’s Talk Commodities. Across the Yard with Don Humphries from SextonThis week, we’re taking the plunge and talking about commodities and the lumber market. To guide us through it, we welcome guest Don Humphrey, National Commodity Wood Manager for Sexton Group Ltd. He and Liz talk about the regionality of the lumber industry, and how provincial regulations play a role in the success of mills across the country. They also touch on the tariff situation – both historical and present day, and what’s to come in the ongoing saga of selling softwood to the USA. Don takes us through it, and shares some keen observations as we all look for the way forward, examining Canada's inflation rate, the renovation bubble, and even mortgage trends!It's a conversation you’ll want to hear – enjoy the show!Links: WRLA: https://wrla.orgSexton Group Ltd: https://sextongroup.com/
Mental conditioning goes a long way. Your resilience and willingness to ask yourself tough questions can prepare you to deal with the pressures, stress, and even fear that come with running, or working in an organization. How do elite performers do it? What's the secret?Our guest today is Lauren Johnson. Lauren helps elite individuals develop mental toughness so they can perform their best regardless of circumstance. Lauren’s clients include Google, the US Women’s National Soccer Team, Johnson & Johnson, and the FBI. She and Liz talk about mental conditioning, and what people can start doing right away to start performing at a higher level.We are thrilled to be welcoming Lauren back to the WRLA Building and Hardware Showcase in Edmonton this January. She'll be talking about the advantage of being able to perform under pressure, and how to leverage it for success. Make sure to register for the trade show today - you won't want to miss this!Links:WRLA Showcase: https://wrlashowcase.caLauren Johnson: https://www.laurenjohnsonandco.com/
One of the biggest pieces of a business' marketing puzzle is branding. Everything begins and ends with how your business represents itself. What message is your brand telling customers before they ever walk through your door or pick up the phone (or click that link, etc.)This week, Liz is joined by Kiirsten May of UpHouse, a branding agency located in Winnipeg, with dozens of successful rebranding campaigns under their belts. Chris Allinotte also steps out from behind the podcast editing booth to weigh in on the process as an in-house marketing professional who has seen three companies through the rebranding process. Find out the how, when, and most of all - the "why" of rebranding. Learn what to expect from the process, and common pitfalls to avoid along the way. Get your pencils ready - you'll want to take some notes! Enjoy the show.Links: WRLA: https://wrla.orgUpHouse: https://uphouseinc.com/Also:The Bud Light Marketing Case Study discussed in today's episode:https://www.fastcompany.com/90888756/bud-light-inclusive-marketing-right-wing-outrage
At this year's WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase, we're facing off for a great cause. We'll be holding the first ever Hockey for Habitat Event. Participating WRLA Members will be drafted to either Team TIMBER MART or Team CertainTeed. On this week's episode, Liz sits down with the captain of Team TIMBER MART - and the person who almost single-handedly conceived this event - Joel Hartung of The LumberZone. Liz and Joel talk about the game, which will be receiving the full NHL game production treatment (and how Joel managed to get that done) and why it was important to bring everyone together in support of Habitat for Humanity. After the first period, the conversation turns to business matters, the US election, and the Softwood Lumber situation - you know, easy topics like that.Finally, Joel weighs in on the workforce, and the resilience it's taken to build a successful business in today's economic climate.Lace up those skates, and hop the boards - you're going to want to hear this one!Links:WRLA: https://wrla.orgThe LumberZone: https://thelumberzone.ca/Hockey for Habitat: https://bit.ly/3YT7x7m
The WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase is in Edmonton, Alberta for our 31st annual event. It's our first time hosting the show in Edmonton, so we invited on a guest who knows a thing or two about this wonderful city - Peter Cottan from Explore Edmonton. They talk about the significance of the show coming into the city, how the newly revitalized Expo Centre is ready to provide a world class experience. Learn how the city and venue are leading the way towards a cleaner, more eco-friendly, power-saving future. Most importantly, find out where to get the best pint of Guinness in Edmonton!Enjoy the episode, and we can't wait to see everyone in Edmonton!Links:WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase: https://wrlashowcase.caExplore Edmonton: https://exploreedmonton.com/
This is our 50th Episode!We started Across the Yard (formerly the very creatively titled, "WRLA Podcast") to share with the world what we already knew - that the Lumber and Building Materials industry is home to so many incredible business leaders and employees. We've invited 50 episodes worth of guests to join us for a chat and, quite often, a few laughs. We've talked about the market, the nature of sales, and so much more.With all that, we think this week's guests are the perfect encapsulation of that entrepreneurial spirit, and examples of resilience in business. Liz welcomes Wade Laurent and Shane Chapman of The Ultimate Deck Shop in Regina and Saskatoon, SK. They share their "origin story" and talk about how their journey to expansion led right through the middle of a global pandemic.Thank you, the listener, for joining us for 50 episodes. We can't wait to bring you even more stories, discussions, and laughs in the episodes to come.Enjoy!Links:WRLA: https://wrla.org/The Ultimate Deck Shop: https://tuds.ca/
It's no great secret that experience (or the school of hard knocks) is the ultimate teacher. While education and theory can impart critical thinking skills and a baseline of knowledge, there's no substitute for on-the-job experience. That's where internship can help - specifically the WRLA's internship program.This week, Liz is speaking to three recent students who found full-time employment through internship and career fair opportunities! Olivia Lloyd took part in a program through the Calgary Board of Education in partnership with WRLA. John Carlo Mendoza got his start on a student internship with us and then found his new career at the Career Fair at last year's Building & Hardware Showcase, and Camilla Josef is now a full-time member of the WRLA team after completing a design internship. Check out the episode and hear how they arrived on their current career path, and what advice they have for their fellow students!Links:WRLA: https://wrla.orgThe Cedar Shop: http://www.cedarshop.comSexton: https://www.sextongroup.com
"Am I the ahole if I buy groceries with my company credit card?""How many drinks is too many at a work function?""Would I be the ahole if I suspect something's up with the person that calls in sick every single Tuesday after a long weekend?"These are just some of the questions that can keep a manager or business owner up at night. Lucky for us, we've got people and culture consultant Natalie Bell on hand to field some of these questions for us. Liz and Natalie start out with a great discussion about the nature of human resources and how every business can benefit from taking a closer look at their HR policies and practices. Then ... Natalie walks us through some HR tips and strategies as she and Liz navigate some real-life workplace horror stories where clear expectations and sensible policies would have saved the day. It's a fun (and funny) jaunt through some truly wild workplace challenges that you won't want to miss.Enjoy the episode (and then sign up for Natalie's Webinar on November 21 where she'll walk you through the HR Basics).Links:WRLA: https://wrla.orgNatalie Bell Consulting: https://nataliebell.ca/WRLA Webinar: HR Basics with Natalie Bell -https://wrla.org/events-calendar.html/event-info/details/id/81
"All you need is love ... and receipts" ~the Beatles' accountant, probably.Expenses are one thing that every business has in common. Regardless of your product or service, there are expenses involved with doing business, and keeping track of spending is one of the most important things you can do for your bottom line.If only it wasn't so much WORK.Our guest this week is Paul Ansloos from ExpensePoint. We'll find out how Paul saw a need to make things easier for businesses to track expenses, keep track of receipts, and automate much of the work needed to produce month-end reporting. The story of how Paul took this program from idea to multi-national success story is incredible, and you'll never look at your expense processes the same way again.Enjoy the show (and share the link with your accounting departments asap!)Links:WRLA: https://wrla.orgExpensePoint: https://www.expensepoint.com/
We've got a very special episode for you this week! Liz was at the Women of Lumber and Forestry (WOLF) conference in British Columbia, and had a chance to catch up with a group of women who are taking the industry by storm!What does it take to get established in a new job? How does one even find jobs in this industry? And once you have that job - how do you get better? To find out, we're talking to Layne Chand'Oiseau (Mountain View Building Materials and student at University of Calgary), Claire Welikoklad (Executive Home Building Centre), and Taylor Reynolds (Dakeryn Industries Ltd.) about their experiences.We're talking about mentorship, and how working with people who want to see you succeed can make a world of difference, especially when you're starting out. Further down the career path - we're also talking to Helen Smith (Star Building Materials, Calgary) about her commitment to lifelong learning, including the new Executive Mastermind Course from WRLA, presented by the incomparable Lauren Johnson.Enjoy the episode!Links:WRLA: https://wrla.orgMountain View Building Materials: https://www.mountainviewbm.caExecutive Home Building Centre: https://www.hbcpro.ca/Dakeryn Industries Ltd: https://www.dakeryn.comStar Building Materials - Calgary: https://www.starbuildingcalgary.ca/WOLF Conference: https://womenoflumberandforestry.com/Lauren Johnson: https://www.laurenjohnsonandco.com/
What did your career path look like? How did you arrive where you are today? More importantly - if you could tell that things weren't working out, did you make a change?That's the conversation we're having this week on Across the Yard with Colin McColl of Windsor Plywood Sherwood Park in Alberta. Liz and Colin talk about how he came to get involved in the building supply business. He also talks about what it's like to go from working alongside a team, to running that same team as a co-owner.It's a great conversation you'll want to hear. Enjoy the show!Links:WRLA: https://wrla.orgWindsor Plywood: http://www.windsorplywood.com
It's one thing to be an effective salesperson, but when you're in charge of the team, it's a whole other ballgame!Jil Reid of Federated Co-operatives Ltd. joins Liz to talk about her journey from outside sales to successfully running a team of sales professionals. They talk about coaching, fostering a collaborative workplace, and how to approach (and train your team to approach) Contractor Sales. You'll also learn why it's super important to keep some fun in your Fridays!Enjoy the show!Links:Federated Co-operatives Ltd: https://www.fcl.crs/home/WRLA: https://wrla.org/
The job of a sales representative is simultaneously one of the most straightforward, and most complex roles on your business' team.On the one hand, you are going out and getting people to agree to buy products from you; on the other, you're managing personal relationships, histories, preferences, and the unique needs of possibly hundreds of contacts across hundreds of businesses - and that's if you're doing it right!This week on the podcast, Liz is joined by Derrick Czayka, Alberta Territory Manager for Regal Ideas Inc. They chat about how relationships, honesty, preparedness, and good old fashioned numbers can make a world of difference, especially if you're just starting out.Thanks to Derrick for spending time with us Across the Yard, and sharing his time and wealth of experience with us!Links: WRLA: https://wrla.orgRegal Ideas: https://www.regalideas.com
Why the West? Liz is joined by Matthew Brennan from Greenfiber, manufacturers of cellulose insulation.They talk about the company's expansion across Canada into the west, but that's just the beginning! In this episode, Liz and Matthew get into the nature of reclaimed and recycled materials, the logistics and supply chain challenges that, while not unique to the west, are keenly felt across the prairies and beyond. What does it take to build climate-conscious housing while still being affordable and, above all, providing comfortable houses people want to live in? Listen to all this and more in this week's Across the Yard! Links:WRLA: https://www.wrla.orgWRLA Showcase: https://wrlashowcase.caGreenfiber: https://www.greenfiber.com
Why would a customer choose your store over your competitor? What sets you apart?Liz is joined by returning guests Sarah Hounslow from BMF and Joel Siebert from Mountainview Building Materials. They discuss how Joel, in working with the merchandising experts at BMF, became a destination store that leads with their materials expertise. You may not be the one-stop-shop, but you can be the leading authority on the products you sell!Joel talks about how that expertise leads to different product mixes at different locations and how you really, really don’t want to buy that vinyl siding if you want your house to stand up to Alberta weather. It’s a great conversation, and you’re sure to take away some tips to make your business better today. Enjoy the show! Make sure to subscribe on Spotify or your favourite podcast app to get new episodes as soon as they’re released!LinksWRLA: https://www.wrla.orgBMF: https://www.bmfonline.comMountainview Building Materials: https://mountainviewbm.ca/
What are your customers thinking?Knowing how people think when preparing for a purchase can give you a big lift in your sales strategies. Liz is joined by Lee Waltham of Brandish Inc. to talk about these subjects as well as the importance of brand recognition, customer feedback, and three questions you can ask today to start improving your business!Enjoy the show!Links:WRLA: www.wrla.orgBrandish: https://brandishagency.com/Lee Waltham: @leewaltham (LinkedIN)
What does it take to grow a product from idea to one of the world's leading professional tools? Join us this week as we find out from Rolf Effertz and Blessy Liquido of TurnX tools. Learn how a chance encounter with a stubborn window shade kickstarted innovation and why today, nothing compares with the in-store experience.Thank you to TurnX for a fabulous conversation about an even more fabulous product!Links:TurnX Tools: https://turnxtools.com/WRLA: www.wrla.org
"Race to the bottom", "Circling the Drain", "Bleeding Out"There are many ways to describe it, but everyone who runs a business knows the situation where price (and only price) seems to be the only thing that matters. Margins get thinner, needed expenses get trimmed, and growth? What growth?Liz is joined by Joel Siebert of Mountainview Building Materials and Pete Baran from Blueneck Business Mechanics. They discuss the pitfalls of making everything about price and how you can break the cycle. Listen in and learn how to create strong customer loyalty, energize your workforce, and set yourself on a growth trajectory. Enjoy!
Have you ever thought about running a golf tournament? Maybe you want to support a local charity, maybe you're looking to get your customers all together in one place - maybe you just really, really like golf! But where to start?This week, Liz is talking to the WRLA Events team - Amanda Camara and Brenda Bourns, who have worked on dozens of successful golf tournaments about how they work, why they work, and what you should know before you host - or participate in - a tournament. They'll also give you some insights into how we're putting together the 2024 WRLA Golf "Tour" this year!You definitely don't want to miss this one!Links:WRLA Events https://wrla.events/
Everyone loves events, but it can be an expensive proposition to participate in everything you want to do! How do you and your business make the most out of the opportunities present at an industry event?We're joined by Jason, Mathieu, and Patricia from Acceo Solutions Inc., who talk about how they approach event marketing, and what they plan to get out of their presence. They highlight the strategies behind using their WRLA Showcase presence to roll out their new program, and how they used the "3 C's" to generate buzz!Also, as of this week, our podcast has a name! Across the Yard will continue to bring you great interviews on relevant business topics, featuring top industry experts. Subscribe today, and we'll be seeing you across the yard!
This week's episode is one we've been looking forward to for awhile now. Let's get down to business and talk about sales! We're thrilled to have Brian Glen of Vicwest with us on the show to talk sales strategy, what it means to keep growing and adapting, and even how to run a successful sales team. (Spoiler: sometimes there are setbacks!) Thanks for joining us - enjoy the show!Links: https://www.wrla.orghttps://www.vicwest.com
Let's Go Build is WRLA's signature program to help recruit new talent into the Lumber and Building Materials industry. Promotion of this program kicked off last year with a public awareness campaign in newspapers, magazines, podcasts, and social media.Now, in 2024, we're taking this program to the next level as we head out on the road for a series of Career Fairs and school information sessions, as well as offering our members access to our all-new Job Board. Chris Allinotte and Matthew Lucek, two members of the WRLA team leading the way on the Let's Go Build Program, join Liz to talk about the past, present, and future of this exciting campaign, and what it means for the LBM industry!
This week’s podcast is one you won’t want to miss! Liz is joined by Sarah Hounslow of Burlington Merchandising & Fixtures (BMF) and Lee Waltham from the Brandish creative agency. They have a great discussion about what it means to step back and look at the big picture in your business, and why it’s worth taking the time to be strategic. There's also a great chat about why it’s just as important for business leaders to take care of their own personal growth and wellbeing as it is for their team.Links:WRLA: https://www.wrla.orgBMF: https://www.bmfonline.comBrandish: https://brandishagency.com/
What does it take to innovate in building science? QuikTherm has a few ideas about that! Jesse Watson and Ryan Cullen join Liz to talk about their company's commitment to engineering a product that goes above and beyond in both application and installation, and why "It pays to go green!"WRLA retail members will get a chance to learn all about it as QuikTherm opens their doors to our first ever "Know Your Pro" manufacturer tour event later this month.Links: QuikTherm: https://quiktherm.com/
Are you covered? Are you sure?Liz is joined this week by Ryan Desjardins of Programmed Insurance Brokers (PIB), the benefits administrator for WRLA, and a partner in providing insurance coverage to our WRLA members. They discuss the importance of preparation when you're travelling, what to do if something happens, and how insurance companies spring into action in times of emergency.Liz and Ryan also cover the importance of having the tough conversations with your family when you're getting your final affairs in order (and why that is so very important.)Links:WRLA Member Portal by PIB: https://bit.ly/49sXF7vConnect with Ryan: Ryan.Desjardins@ PIB.COM
We think that membership in the WRLA is a valuable resource that every business in the Lumber and Building Materials Industry should take advantage of. But why? What is it about associations (like ours) that makes it worth your time and money to participate?Liz is joined this week by Andrew Brassington from Owens Corning, Chris Hogan from Henry Company Canada Inc., and Ken Crockett from Star Building Materials Calgary. They dive into a great discussion about the supplier/retailer relationship, and where associations can play a role to help make those relationships happen. Listen in as we ask,"What does it take to be your customers' first call?""Why bother going to networking events?""How are we supposed to keep on top of 1,000 SKU's and 100 shades of white siding?"All these answers, and so much more! Enjoy!
What does it take to bring a high-quality product to an increasingly competitive market?This week, we're talking to the 2024 Best New Product winner from the WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase. Rob Mitchell, President & CEO of Vista Railing Systems Inc. joins Liz to talk about supply chain, in-house manufacturing innovations, and much much more. We also get some in-depth info on their award-winning railing system that's sure to light up your holidays (and BBQ's, and get-togethers ...)
Building supply stores are cornerstones of their community. It makes sense, then, that partnering and supporting those communities in return is the right thing to do.Liz is joined this week by Ryan Kurzac and Brian Hamilton of Kamloops Home Hardware Building Centre and they chat about the store's incredible track record of community outreach and support, including their support of the TRU Carpentry program, and partnering with CHBA on the yearly Dream Home build in support of the Kamloops Y. It's a great conversation, and more than a little inspiring to go out and get involved! Links:WRLA - www.wrla.orgTRU Giving Day: https://www.tru.ca/giving/givingday.htmlClick the YELLOW “give now” button, then scroll down and choose a Trades option under ‘Direct my donation’Kamloops Home Hardware Building Centre’s Charity Golf Tournament, Sep 19, 2024: https://www.hhkamloopsgolf.ca/
What makes a Sales Superstar? Liz catches up with the 2023 Recipients of the WRLA Sales Rep of the Year Awards to find out that answer to that question and more! Congratulations and thanks to Joe Maher of Taiga Building Products, Jillian Richards of Canadian Engineered Wood Products, John Randell of Gillfor Distribution, and Derek Warren of Metrie Winnipeg.
What does it take to become a destination store? What does it take to gain and retain loyal customers? It starts with building better retail and becoming a store that's a pleasure to visit. Liz is joined by Sarah Houslow, president of Burlington Merchandising and Fixtures, to discuss this and so much more! BMF is the presenting sponsor of the 2024 WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase, so if you're heading out to the convention centre, be sure to stop by their booth and check out what BMF can do for you in person!
There are four definable stages of business - startup, growth, scaling up, and succession. Where is your business at? Where would you like to be? Liz dives into these questions and more with Pete Baran of Blueneck Business Mechanics.Enjoy this quick dive into the stages of business and then, for those attending the 30th Anniversary WRLA Showcase - you can sign up for Pete's half-day session on Wednesday, January 17!Links: https://wrlashowcase.ca/pd-power-sessions/Blueneck Business Mechanics: https://www.blueneck.ca
Celebrating sixty years in business is a pretty big deal. What does it take to keep a company growing and thriving after all that time?The answer is simple, but it isn't easy! Liz is joined this week by Ken Jenkins of Castle Building Centres Group Ltd. and they talk about that, the state of the Building Materials Industry, and why independent dealers are uniquely positioned to gain a huge edge in the market, as long as they prioritize just one thing... You won't want to miss this one - enjoy!Links:WRLA: https://www.wrla.orgCastle Building Centres Group Ltd: https://youarethebrand.ca/
What if you send your employees for training, and they don't stay at your business?How about this - what if you invest in training, and it changes your business for the better - forever?On this episode, Liz is joined by Shawn Wiesner from Kamloops Home Hardware, who also happens to be delivering our newest WRLA Academy course, "Increasing Profitability through Yard & Warehouse Management." They talk about the course, and how developing empowered, engaged leaders in a business ALWAYS pays off, whether the specific employee remains with you in the long term or not. You'll hear why it pays to be a "learn-it-all" not a "know-it-all", and most of all - after you hear this conversation you'll be clamoring to sign up for this one-of-a-kind opportunity to take this course from WRLA Academy!Links:https://wrlashowcase.caIncreasing Profitability through Yard & Warehouse Management.Registration link:
Are you ready for "A Breath of Fresh HR?" A business is only as good as the people that work there, and having the right employees can mean the difference between getting by and, “what’s their secret to success?” Once you’ve got the right staff – how do you keep them?Enter Natalie Bell, People & Culture Consultant and expert in all those tricky questions that keep you up at night as you're trying to run your business.Liz and Natalie talk about bringing the energy to the workplace, how policies and procedures can head off issues before they become ... "issues" and much much more! You'll also get a sneak preview of the topics Natalie will be covering in her Power PD Session at the 2024 WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase. A word of advice when you sign up - be prepared to interact, be prepared to work, and be prepared to have a lot of fun!Links:https://wrlashowcase.cahttps://nataliebell.ca/Mentioned in the podcast:https://www.goodwork.ca/Thanks to Natalie for her time (and the use of her tagline for the title of this episode!)
For our 20th episode of the WRLA Podcast, we're tackling two of the biggest issues for any business, Sales and Marketing! How much do you need to spend, and why? What goes into branding? Liz gets the answers to these questions and more this week in conversation with Kirstie Carruthers and Andrea Budd of velvet theory Creative Agency. Like what you hear? The velvet theory team is conducting a FREE professional development session at the 2024 WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase! Linksvelvet theory: https://velvettheory.com/PD Sessions at the Showcase:https://wrlashowcase.ca/pd-power-sessions/
What does it take to bring your best self to the job? How do high-performance leaders bring their mental best to the challenges they face?We're finding out the answers to these questions and more as Liz is joined by Mental Performance Coach Lauren Johnson, as well as Day Naidoo, Director of Sales for Durabuilt Windows & Doors, and Ken Crockett, Vice President of Star Building Materials.Tune in for a totally engaging conversation and mindset strategies you can start applying to your business (and your personal life) today! Then, WRLA members, mark your calendar for the morning of January 18 so you don't miss Lauren's keynote speech at the 2024 WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase, presented in partnership with Durabuilt Windows & Doors and Star Building Materials.Links:WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase: https://wrlashowcase.caLauren Johnson: https://www.laurenjohnsonandco.com/Durabuilt Windows & Doors: http://www.durabuiltwindows.comStar Building Materials Calgary: www.starbuildingcalgary.ca/
Liz is joined this week by Tracy Nadiger from All Weather Windows, winner of the best booth at the WRLA Showcase for two years running, and by WRLA's newest team member, Brenda Bourns, who brings a lifetime of event experience with her. They talk about what makes a great exhibition experience, what draws people to your booth, how to keep them there, and why the secret might just be Superman, helicopters, and candy!This episode is packed with tips you can use to put your best foot forward when you're exhibiting at a trade show like ours, so you won't want to miss this one!
Liz welcomes the newest member of the WRLA Board, Colin McColl of Windsor Plywood. They talk about Colin's career, his seemingly natural affinity for making amazing social media posts, and on growing a career in the Lumber and Building Materials industry.
After a long, hot summer, the WRLA Podcast is back in our regular rotation! We're thrilled to introduce you all to Amanda Camara, the newest addition to the WRLA team. Our VP of Business Development & Marketing takes a few minutes to chat with Liz about her career - and why it seems to keep coming back to the building sector! Later, they get in-depth with some exciting programs WRLA is working on, and a very quick sneak peek of the 2024 WRLA Showcase - which is having its 30th Anniversary this January!
Podcast post Chris Allinotte Chris Allinotte Soundcloud
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Chris Allinotte Chris Allinotte When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
For most of us, "work in the Lumber and Building Industry" wasn't even on the list. This week, Liz introduces our listeners to three members of the WRLA team: Travis Waite, Director of Finance, Alisa Luo, Graphic Designer Extraordinaire, and Executive Assistant Rebekah Doerksen.
They talk about how they came to work in the industry, why the message of the "Let's Go Build" campaign, that there's a career for every interest, is more important now than ever before, and finally (and most importantly) we check out Travis' amazing shoes!
Social media expert Sherrilynne Starkie from Prospectus Associates join Liz and Chris from the WRLA team to talk about how social media is helping our "Let's Go Build" campaign reach the biggest audience possible.
Find out how and why we're exploring TikTok and Snapchat, and how you can get involved to put the power of social to work for your business!
Links mentioned in the show:
Let's Go Build: www.letsgobuild.ca Hootsuite: https://www.hootsuite.com/
Ken Crockett and Helen Smith of Star Building Materials in Calgary, AB join Liz in the studio this week for a great discussion about Ride Through The Rockies. This bike event, organized by Ken and his team at Star, is celebrating its 10th year raising funds for Habitat for Humanity in Southern Alberta. Learn about how this event came to be, and how much it means to so many of our WRLA members.
Links: Ride Through the Rockies Information and Donation Page: https://my.habitatsouthernab.ca/ride-through-the-rockies-2023 More photos: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjAMhVZ
Learn more about Helen Smith and her story: www.letsgobuild.ca
Liz is joined by Chris Allinotte for today's episode as they go over the long-awaited findings of WRLA's Labour Study. This comprehensive survey was produced and completed in partnership with the government of Alberta, and has produced some truly compelling results.
What did they find out? Have a listen!
This week we're talking to the 2023 Salespeople of the Year. These awards honour the hard work, commitment, and sales results of representatives from across Western Canada. WRLA awards one salesperson each from British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Jump into this week's episode and hear from Rob St. Onge and Jil Reid from All-Fab Building Components, as well as Mark Wandy and Jodie Porter from Taiga Building Supplies (recorded live at this year's WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase).Additionally, we honour one person each year with the Industry Achievement Award. This is typically someone who has, in the course of their career, not just made an impact on the people around them, but elevated the industry. All that and more can be attributed to this year's recipient, Steve Buckle from Sexton.Enjoy the show, and then head over to www.wrla.org and get your nominations in for this year's awards!
It's finally here! WRLA is proud to announce our "Let's Go Build" program. Have a listen and find out how we are working to draw new talent to the Lumber and Building Materials industry through this audacious new program.Notes: - The website that's referenced in the episode is: www.letsgobuild.ca- the videos referenced in the episode are on that website in the "Our People" section
What is sustainable manufacturing? What does it mean for a company to change to "green" manufacturing? This week, Liz digs into these topics with the help of special guests, Bernard Lewis from Vicwest (metal roofing and cladding)and Gino Allegro from Johns Manville (insulation). We learn how Vicwest completely transformed its operations to run with dramatically cleaner energy consumption and find out how proper insulation can offset many times the carbon used to create it. And what does one tonne of carbon look like, anyway? All this and much more in this week's podcast. Enjoy!Links:Johns Manville sustainability commitments: https://www.jm.com/en/sustainability/Vicwest Planet Passionate: https://vicwest.com/planet-passionate/
Happy Earth Month! We're kicking things off with a fantastic episode of our podcast that you won't want to miss!Liz is joined by Derek Nighbor of Forest Products Association of Canada. They talk about the forestry industry's role in driving sustainability, carbon capture, and the challenge of net zero. We also got some fantastic insights into the longstanding US vs. Canada softwood lumber debate and what it's like to be at a dinner with US President Joe Biden! All that and more are in this week's show - enjoy!
Martine Yzerman is back! This week she joins Liz for an exciting conversation about the all-new WRLA Academy and our totally redesigned curriculum. Enjoy!
Happy International Women's Day!We're thrilled to share this special edition of the WRLA podcast with you.Liz is joined by four incredibly accomplished women who have built their careers in the Lumber and Building Materials Industry. They sat down for a conversation about their experiences and what the future holds for women joining the industry. The Lumber and Building Materials Industry is huge. It encompasses everything from natural resources, to manufacturing, to distribution and retail - there's a place and a career for everyone, and there's never been a better time to #EmbraceEquityThanks to our guests for sharing their amazing stories with us:Jacqueline Lundrigan, Vice President, Westman Steel IndustriesJodie Porter, Assistant Branch Manager, Taiga Building ProductsDonna Gerrits, VP of Sales and Marketing, Alexandria Moulding Inc.Jil Reid, Regional Account Advisor, All-Fab Building Components... and your host, Liz Kovach, President of WRLA!
The WRLA Podcast is back with a recap of our week at the WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase. Liz and Chris talk about the show, and we revisit the action through some member interviews recorded live at the event. Thanks to everyone who made this one of our best shows to date! Whether it was through sponsorship, attendance, or working at the show to make sure everything ran smoothly, the whole week was a testament to how fantastic our industry can be!Enjoy the show!
Happy New Year!We're almost ready to kick off the 2023 WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase on January 19 & 20 at RBC Centre in Winnipeg. Jump into this week's episode for a super-quick preview of some of the exciting features at this year's event!
We've got a super-sized episode for you this week!Liz sat down with special guests Sarah Hounslow, President of Burlington Merchandising and Fixtures (BMF) and Marc Atiyolil, co-host of the Marc & Mandy Show. Recorded live at the RBC Convention Centre, home of the upcoming 2023 WRLA Building & Hardware Showcase, the three talked about how bricks & mortar shopping is evolving and how focusing on the in-person consumer experience can help take your business to the next level. BMF and Marc & Mandy will be at the 2023 WRLA Showcase and ready to talk all things merchandising and design, and we can't wait!You don't want to miss this episode - enjoy!
Liz and Chris are back with another episode of the WRLA podcast.
Did you know that out of everyone employed in the trades, just 4% are women? That's just one of the things we learned recently at the Manitoba Women in Trades conference.
Join us for a special episode with an interview we taped live at the event. Liz sat down with Carol Paul of the Manitoba Construction Sector Council, who organized the conference and talked about how we go about getting more women into the industry.
Later, Chris has a quick chat with Kaitlyn Chimko (Dakeryn Industries) on her experiences as a woman working in the LBM industry.
Enjoy the show!
Martine Yzerman, Director, Training and Workforce Development for WRLA, joins Liz this week and discusses the importance of continuous training and "up-skilling" for our members.
WRLA is on the air! We're thrilled to welcome you to our new podcast.
In this first episode, hosts Liz and Chris fill you in on some exciting events coming soon for WRLA members, and we take a few minutes to chat with WRLA Board Chair Andrew Reimer (All-Fab Building Components.) Enjoy the show!