Better the Pond---PondCast: Recent Episodes
Warren Barry
Speaking to amazing people doing incredible things to lead the charge of generosity, and to tell their stories of what they are doing to Better The Pond!
Chris Knight of Monteyne Architecture and James Melendez of Bobcat Construction. These two companies do business together in Winnipeg Manitoba. These two gentlemen and their companies work together to create high performance, world class construction, and create healthy spaces and healthy environments for people to live and work. Eavesdrop on our conversation about their stories and backstories. What I listened to was two remarkable stories about two completely separate families that immigtrated to Canada, and created a quality life for their families. What really made me pay attention was how Chris and James are still doing the same thing for families. Building quality buildings for people to have a quality life for their families. As Chris said, a place for mental ease to dwell within.
These two gentlemen build a better pond for people to live. Ladies and gentlemen, Chris Knight, and James Melendez.
Chris Haney is the CEO of DBBE connect out of Folsom California. This was an incredibly impactful conversation which I didn't want to end. Chris is a disabled veteran with an incredible back story. The thing that I loved about talking to Chris was his attitude about being of service to others looking for obstacles on a daily basis and clearly explaining to others what you don’t know. The thing about Chris is it’s not about what he does. It’s about who he is. Chris gets to better the pond by helping veterans through the Suki Chris Golf Extravaganza, Community Connect and so many other venues. Chris creates impact. Ladies and gentlemen, we solute Mr. Christopher Haney.
DVBE Connect: https://www.dvbeconnect.com/
DVBE Media & Strategy: https://www.dvbemedia.com/
DVBE Pipe & Supply: https://www.dvbepipeandsupply.com/
E-mail: chris@dvbeconnect.com
Three words that encapsulate Josh Wood and Westshore Home. Values, Culture, and Language. Josh Wood is the Chief Development Officer of Westshore Home based out of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania.
Westshore Home is a home renovation company, but like nothing that you have ever seen before. They are all about extreme ownership, default aggressive. When have you heard a renovation company say that.
Josh is all about leaning into relationships. It’s hard to be angry at someone at the same time, sincerely serving them.
Josh and Westshore better the pond by bringing happiness into every home. This was an amazing conversation, and I am honored to introduce to you, Josh Wood.
Website: https://westshorehome.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-wood/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=or41fd37GH8
Westshore for Warriors: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5FeF5Z5xvE
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LrD7m6rAurg
Pierre Mousseau is the real deal. Pierre is the CEO and founder of High Energy Transport in Bolton, Ontario Canada. When Pierre talks about communication, vulnerability, and authenticity, he doesn’t just say it, he lives it. Pierre’s story is incredible, and you have to listen to how he became his own super hero. Interesting when he was voted by his teachers to be the least likely to succeed.
Pierre left our discussion with the quote, It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice. That is how you better the pond.
Website: www.highenergytransport.com
e-mail: pierre@highenergytransport.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pierre-mousseau-32a51a18/
Brent Stone. We should call this conversation the hospitality episode.
Brent Stone is the Restaurant Manager of the Marriott Delta South Hotel in Calgary Alberta. There have been so many experiences of hospitality that I have experienced at this hotel, and I wanted to share the story. Brent Stone was just the person to do it.
I love Brent’s story of doing land survey work for his Dad, to commerce, to flying planes, to computer work, to becoming a sommelier, working in the cannabis industry and now a life in the hospitality industry.
But Brent has taken himself wherever he went, and gets to better the pond by caring for every person he comes in contact with. Not all hospitality costs money. Thank you Brent for everything you do to better the pond.
This is a special edition Pondcast recorded virtually across the pond in France, with a view of the Swiss Alps and Lake Geneva. Today’s guest is Will Ham. Will is a Financial Advisor at Sam Law Financial, which is a financial advisory firm specializing in working with small and medium-sized businesses on their 401K and retirement plans. Will understands the significance of financial education and its impact on individuals' financial futures and the importance of financial literacy to improve the quality of life and ensure a comfortable retirement. Will gets to better the pond by helping people have a secure future, and provide them with piece of mind.
will@samlaw.com
https://www.samlaw.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-ham-cpfa®-46340042/
Dave Schellenberg is the CFO of Decor Cabinets based out of Morden Manitoba Canada. I had Stan Pauls, the CEO of Decor on previously as a guest, and wanted to continue the conversation with more of the team, as what Decor Cabinets does to Better the Pond is exceptional.
Dave was raised with very high values. His father liked to influence peoples hearts, and his mother influenced their heads. With Dave’s competitive nature and drive, he has learned from his mistakes, and in turn understands the true power of leadership and how it impacts the people around him.
Listen to what Dave and Decor are doing to Better the Pond, they are creating ripples all over the world.
dschellenberg@decorcabinets.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-schellenberg-6a6a6427/
https://decorcabinets.com
James is one of the Managing Partners in Rogue Marketing in Dallas Texas. James is also a teacher at Southern Methodist University teaching digital strategy for entrepreneurs. Rogue Marketing creates marketing and digital strategies for small to medium size businesses, and does an amazing job at it. You have to check them out.
You have to listen to James talk about being meaningful specific and being a wandering generality. It really captures his essence. James is a meaningful specific, a lifelong learner, and it definitely shows.
James also gets to better the pond by being the organizer for the holiday toy drive with Santa’s Helpers. Making Christmas special for so many children.
https://www.linkedin.com/company/rogue-marketing-agency https://www.linkedin.com/in/jloomstein/ https://twitter.com/jloomstein https://www.instagram.com/roguemktg
Mark Hebert is the president and CEO of Cosmo Music Superstore in Richmond Hill Ontario. With the business started way back in 1966, Cosmo Music has gone from a small mom and pop retail guitar shop to a behemoth 60,000 square foot where you can experience anything music. Mark grew up in the business and was a truly driven entrepreneur and had a vision to help out the retail music industry on the north side of the border.
Cosmo Music provides an experience like no other to help kids and anyone else who is a lover of music. Mark’s final words of focus on family really rang true for me. The importance of that statement can never be understated. Thank you Mark for everything that you do to Better the Pond.
E-mail: mark@cosmo.ca
Website: https://www.cosmomusic.ca
https://twitter.com/CosmoMusic
https://www.facebook.com/CosmoMusicCanada/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/cosmo-music/
https://www.instagram.com/cosmomusic/
https://www.youtube.com/user/CosmoMusicTube
Reuben Kamp. Founder and CEO of Darkhorse Tech. An intimate yet powerful software company that supports the dental industry on an international capacity. Reuben is a genius, although he denies it, but he has his degree in biology, was 3X on the Dean’s list, left the dentistry space, to then become an entrepreneur and start Darkhorse Tech, all by the age of 24.
Rueben is extremely curious, driven, competitive, and passionate, and through all that, provides customer service to his clients, and his team that is world class.
Three words that describe Reuben, integrity, communication, and commitment.
Thank you Reuben and Dark Horse for everything that you do to Better the Pond
Arthur is the CEO of The Newly Institute in Calgary Alberta Canada. The Newly Institute is a treatment facility that deals with trauma, addiction, and mental health. With over a 80% success rate, The Newly Institute is top of its class.
Arthur started his career in the financial industry and found his way into Newly. Arthur and his team are creating some incredible ripples by helping like police officers, paramedics, and other first responders. They help the people who help us. In turn, they reverse the effects of trauma, and can be there for their family and friends.
Thank you Arthur for creating a company that truly betters the pond.
Website: www.thenewly.ca
E-mail: arthur@thenewly.ca
LinkedIn: arthur h. kwan, mba, cfa, icd.d
Stan Pauls. Undeniably Different are two words that describe Decor Cabinets, but also describe Stan Pauls. Stan is the CEO of Decor Cabinets, is an odd duck, and clearly stands out in the crowd. Stan is incredibly humble, and is a true leader. Stan went to the University of Life, and learned through the school of hard knocks, and I would say that he graduated with great distinction. Stan’s contribution and how he betters the pond knows no bounds. He has created ripples in his community, and all over the world. Stan is a true inspiration, and we are so thankful that he is undeniably different. Thank you Stan for everything that you do to Better the Pond.
Patrick Lo is the CEO of CaNaan Shipping and is based out of Richmond British Columbia, Canada. Patrick immigrated from Hong Kong at a very young age, as his parents came to Canada as they saw it as the land of promise. Patrick went to medical school and got his physiology degree and was set out to help find a cure for cancer. When his father took ill, he immediately stepped up to run Canaan. Although he had no idea what a P & L was, nor how to read a balance sheet, he set out to get his MBA. Patrick is authentic, consistent, disciplined, compassionate, and is fueled by passion, and a true desire to help others. Thank you, Patrick, for everything that you do to Better the Pond.
Linked In:https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-lo-216450b/
Company:www.canaangroup.ca
Email:patrick@canaangroup.ca
Chris is a podcaster, coach, speaker, mentor, and author. She is the Queen Bee of Beehive Working Community in Tyngsborough Massachusetts, a home improvement contractor, and real estate guru. Plus, she is not afraid of getting in there and getting her hands dirty. When Chris turned 50, it was a very dark time, and one visit to her 100 year old aunt completely shifted her mindset. Now she gets to help women in their second half of life find passion and success. Chris finds the good in people, is an amazing contributor in the community, and betters the pond by just being herself. Thank you for being you Chris.
Ethan is the co-founder of ProAssisting, together with his wife and business partner Stephanie Bull, Proassisting is a company that connects and provides executive assisting to high level business leaders.
Ethan isn’t only about providing a service to business professionals; he takes it to the next level
of hospitality. Learning at a young age about hospitality, work ethic, fun and responsibility and being held accountable in the restaurant business, he weaves these principles with the executive assistants to every client that they work with.
Ethan provides a true north and helps executive assistants see their true value, and this is how Ethan and pro assisting continues to better the pond.
Website: https://www.proassisting.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ethanbull/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniebull/
Here is the link: https://www.proassisting.com/29-hour-workday-audio
password to the book page is: EApartnership
Mike is the Vice President of Colliers Project Leaders. Hailing all the way from Regina Saskatchewan, Mike is all about rousing enthusiasm, constantly learning, and unlocking the potential in others.
Mike and Colliers get to better the pond by creating and building infrastructure for communities. Not only that, he does the same for people too!
Thank you Mike Sazynski for everything that you do to Better the Pond.
I met Mehmet at a TEC Canada Emerging Leaders session where I was speaking, and knew that there was something special about him.
Born in Iskenerin, Turkey, moved to Brooklyn NY at the age of 7, with no english, totally new culture, and a world of unknowns, Mehmet found a way. His family moved to Canada, and that is where he resides. He leads by example, is always the first to be kind, and left me with the line, you only lose when you give up. Mehmet gets to better the pond everyday, but leaving people better than he found them. Thank you Mehmet.
Dave Young and Duane Johns representing both sides of the border today. Dave and Duane are coaches, consultants, and genius’s in the home building sector. Both running franchises with Alair homes, and are co-hosts of the Builder Nuggets Podcast. I was in the company of greatness. Dave and Duane are all about people first, and home building second. That are all about elevating their people, providing purpose, and then delegating to those people who do it best. It’s not about joining a company to get something, it’s about joining a company to give something.
Listen to Dave and Duane talk about getting to know yourself, then collaborating with others to do great things. Thank you Dave and Duane for everything that you do to better the pond.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daveyoung13/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/duanejohns/
https://www.buildernuggets.com
Julia is the genius behind the Unique Ability process for Strategic Coach. From her humble beginnings in Hanover, Not. Canada, Julia moved to Toronto, and then left the next to travel to Hong Kong, Mexico, Guatemala and other worldly destinations. She came back to Toronto and has been impacting lives at the Strategic Coach since. Words of wisdom from Julia on this Podcast were trust your energy, give yourself permission, and love and just be yourself. Thank you Julia creating so many ripples out there to better the pond.
https://www.strategiccoach.com
https://uniqueability.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliawaller/
Julia is the genius behind the Unique Ability process for Strategic Coach. From her humble beginnings in Hanover, Not. Canada, Julia moved to Toronto, and then left the next to travel to Hong Kong, Mexico, Guatemala and other worldly destinations. She came back to Toronto and has been impacting lives at the Strategic Coach since. Words of wisdom from Julia on this Podcast were trust your energy, give yourself permission, and love and just be yourself. Thank you Julia creating so many ripples out there to better the pond.
https://www.strategiccoach.com
https://uniqueability.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliawaller/
Born in Poona India. Ketan grew up in a time of simple living and higher thinking. His family then migrated to Canada, and became a physician, author, researcher, multiple international award winner, and is all about meaning, contribution, and impact.
His book, The Legendary Quest really gets you to think and reflect about what really matters, and takes you back to your authentic self.
Ketan believes that if we start teaching these simple principles in school, we would all live in a much healthier pond. Thank you Ketan for everything you do to better the pond.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ketan-kulkarni-a6b6b448
https://www.facebook.com/ketanpkulkarni
https://www.amazon.ca/Legendary-Quest-Professionals-Excellence-Fulfillment/dp/B09TWPHFFR
All the way from across the pond in Paris France, Sue is the author of Tiny Thunder, Irresistible messaging for an overwhelmed world, known as the female David Ogilvy, and the master of what we deemed as word spaghetti.
Sue in 3rd grade did a spice board as a school project, from that moment, she just knew that she would travel the world to where those spices came from. She has followed her intuition since, and it has lead her down some incredible paths, and so many lessons along the way. In a time where people are so distracted and you need them to listen, sometimes you have to whisper. Words are Sue’s magic carpet.
CEO of TLC Solutions in Vancouver Canada. Technolojoy. Ever heard of it, either did I until talking to Mike. Mike and his team have discovered a way to bring joy into technology, thus technolojoy.
Mike is a life long learner, getting results, and creating impact. Mike is all about creating consistency, aligning, and communicating what true north is. Whether it is in business, family, or relationships, he helps people find their north star. Mike’s statement to the world? Only compare yourself to yesterday’s version of yourself. Knowing that you are the person that you are truly accountable to.
TLC also runs a program called Technolojoy 4 Kids where they partner with big brothers and big sisters as well as BC Tech to provide technology to those who may not have the capacity to.
Thank you Mike and TLC Solutions for everything that you do to Better the Pond.
Author, coach, speaker, program designer, fellow podcaster, and all around great human being. Shannon is the Director and Teamwork Coach at The Strategic Coach, a coaching program specifically designed for highly successful entrepreneurs. In the program, you discover your Unique Ability, here is Shannons: Intuitively perceiving the essence of a situation, then innovating and compassionately communicating practical strategies to align people’s thinking to what’s real so that they’re happy with themselves, maximizing their growth, working as a team, and fulfilling their purpose. Yup, that’s Shannon alright. Shannon is light hearted, and serious minded. Shannon helps entrepreneurs expand, grow,and become an author of their own domain. This is how Shannon gets to better the pond on a daily basis. Listen to the episode and get to know her, and you will want to create some ripples on your own pond.
This pondcast, I was fortunate to have the President & CEO of TEC Canada, Todd Millar as my guest. Todd is also an author, speaker, and executive coach. Todd has climbed to the base camp of Mount Everest, and has also climbed and conquered the challenges that he had as President of Hockey Calgary. Todd's mantra if the whole world was listening to him..... BE KIND. Todd is all about leadership, family, community, and as I said, kindness.
I have nothing but the upmost respect for Todd Millar, TEC Canada, and the TEC Canada community, and it was an absolute honour to have Todd Millar as my guest. Thank you Todd for everything that you do, everyday, to #betterthepond .
All the way from across the pond in Paris France, Sue is the author of Tiny Thunder, Irresistible messaging for an overwhelmed world, known as the female David Ogilvy, and the master of what we deemed as word spaghetti.
Sue in 3rd grade did a spice board as a school project, from that moment, she just knew that she would travel the world to where those spices came from. She has followed her intuition since, and it has lead her down some incredible paths, and so many lessons along the way. In a time where people are so distracted and you need them to listen, sometimes you have to whisper. Words are Sue’s magic carpet.
Thank you Sue for being your authentic self, this alone is your gift and how you better the pond. Ladies and gentlemen, Sue Rice.
Self proclaimed data nerd, marketing genius, and all around great guy. Alex is the founder of Click Makers, and MeasureBit.
Alex was born in the Ukraine. Went to university in Moscow, and had various jobs before moving to Canada. His mother and father were both teachers, and as you will discover, Alex has become a life long learner.
Alex measures his companies success by how many clients he can kick out of the nest so that they can fly on their own. He believes that most of the world’s problems can be solved if we just sat down and communicated. Alex gets to better the pond by making other companies successful.
Beginning her journey in the USA, but born in Nuremburg Germany, Kathleen is the genius behind Second 50 Financial. Her father, a very successful dentist had Kathleen growing up wanting for nothing. Then, a health issue with her father changed everything, and she realized that there was a need for people needing help in the second half of their lives. Kathleen was on a journey to go into dentistry herself, but discovered that was not her destiny, and found herself in financial services. She helps to become financially confident, finding opportunities for expansion, and creates a community to discover what gets people up in the morning, and to take action. She has created the second 50 movement, and in turn is creating ripples to better the pond. Thank you Kathleen.
From his very early beginnings in Warsaw, Poland. Martin’s parents risked everything and came across the border in 1972, and crossed the pond to establish a new life in Calgary, Alberta Canada.
Martin learned about hardship, struggle, hard work, but in turn developed a very large heart to support everyone around him.
Most of Martin’s professional career has been around the oil and gas industry, which is typically about money, grit, and time. Martin see’s it differently. For him it is about how we care, we empower people, and improve lives. Oh, and we also do oil and gas.
He says that life is 10% what happens to us, and 90% of how we respond. Thank you Martin, for how you respond, because it is with great clarity that this is how you better the pond. Get to know Martin, and you will know what I mean. Ladies and gentlemen, Martin Socha.
Steve’s father’s words: No one ever drown by falling in the water, they did by staying there.
There are a few people that you come across in your life that leave an impact. Steve Sims is one of those people. His books Bluefishing and Go for Stupid have not only impacted my life, but have of many other people around me, and I am sure, a very long list of others. You have to read Steve's books.
Steve is an odd duck that grew up in England, and decided that being a bricklayer was not his calling. The curious and disruptive Steve Sims, has learned that the greatest things that ruffled his feathers the most was the greatest fuel for moving forward.
Steve gets to better the pond by motivating and inspiring people to go for something stupid.
Cheers Steve, keep creating ripples.
From his humble beginnings in Fort Dodge, Iowa, Joey has always been the one to create a challenge, see what’s possible, invite others in, even if involved trying to fly. Well, truth be told, getting his brother to fly.
Joey is an author, award winning speaker, and the Maestro of Design Symphony.
Joey is dedicated to helping businesses to never lose a customer, and his next journey is about companies never losing an employee.
Joey teaches others, and gets to better the pond by understanding that if you help people by what they do from 5 PM to 8 am, not from 8 am to 5 pm, you will have a happier and healthier culture, and in turn, will do the same for your customer. Thank you Joey for everything you do to better the pond. Ladies and gentlemen, Joey Coleman
Don’s immediate answer to every problem is, Is there a better way?
Don is always challenging the status quo. Whether it is in Innovator Industrial Services, or in Amplifier X. Don has always been an odd duck, and thankfully he has, because he gets to reduce workplace injuries by creating safe workspaces for his employee’s. He does this through his company culture for mental health, and through physical health by using safe equipment and tools.
Don’s wise words are find what you love doing, then do it 10X more. Thank you Don for making the Pond not only better, but safer.
Residing in Zeeland, Michigan, Monica is the Executive of Operational Excellence for the Performance Strategy Group. Monica had always been very relationship driven. Her secret sauce is always about how many people that she can help. Monica was a bank teller at the age of 15. 15, seriously, 15 years old handling all that cash. Then the downturn of the economy changed all that, and her new career found her, and now she gets to help others learn and grow. Monica see's setbacks as opportunities, hindsight is 20/20, and through all that, gets to better the pond. Thank you Monica.
Marion Pulse and Latoya Faustin of She Built This City. The two women are absolute powerhouses, and are not just creating ripples, but are making waves. Both were raised by single moms, learned struggle and resilience, stayed determined and focused, and thankfully were brought together to create She Built This City.
Latoya’s mom had the saying, what’s taught or what’s caught. Latoya was taught a lot, but what she caught was the passion and commitment to help others and lead with love. Marion learned resilience, but what she caught was that no matter what happens, everything will always turn out ok.
The team of she built this city is all about getting women in the trades and helping them succeed. Thank you Marion and Latoya for helping to build a better pond.
Paul Martin, better known as the rear admiral of The Royal Saskatchewan Navy has been a prominent member of the communications and business sector in Saskatchewan, and anyone here can agree that he last left a lasting impression. The impact that Paul has made in Saskatchewan communiites is endless. Paul is always challenging the status quo, breaking old patterns, and leaving them better than he found them. Paul believes that everyone has a right to express themselves, and to create a world that is fair. Thank you Paul, for everything that you do to Better the Pond.
Andrew Kap. Born and raised in New York City, and still to this day, a proud New Yorker. Andrew always considered himself as normal, or average. But the time came when he had a paradigm shift and everything changed. Andrew now lives his life from a place of gratitude and puts the law of attraction into his everyday life, and gets to see his life manifest in front of his eyes. Never alone, Andrew is always on a team, and through that gets to create ripples and better the pond. Thank you Andrew for not being average.
From the small town of Fairmont, Minnesota, population 10,000, Brian is not only creating ripples, he is making waves. Learning from his mother, aunt, and uncle growing up about hard work, education and business; then learning the hard way about taking care of those you love from his father, Brian is leading the way to help people to be an architect of their dreams. As an author of the dream architect, and being recognized by Forbes as one of the top 8 authors who can positively change your future is how Brian gets to better the pond. Thank you Brian.
There was a very dark moment on a cold bathroom floor and could have ended Trevor's life, instead it launched him into a whole new one. Three words that Trevor lives by are authenticity, bravery, and vulnerability. Thinking that he never fit in anywhere, a friend once told him that he could stop suffering from terminal uniqueness. From his life's experiences, and his emotional drive, Trevor gets to better the pond through his We Care culture at Surepoint, and his someday to today campaign. This guy is worth paying attention to. Thank you for everything you do Trevor!
The shy 4th Grader from Derrington, Washington turns relationship and connector guru for entrepreneurs. Kevin's passion and curiosity for helping and connecting entrepreneurs is contagious. Kevin learned from a very young age that hard work, dedication, and saving helps build confidence and self esteem. By being the best friend he never had growing up has allowed Kevin to Better the Pond and create some serious ripples. Thank you Kevin.
Brittany is known as the culture Queen of Sweet Financial Partners. Ever since she was a little girl, Britany was always looking out for others, and looking for opportunities fro growth. She has used fear as a driving force and always turned fear into possibility, unless it came to spiders. Brittany is an author, speaker, and advisor, and a champion for all things good. She gets to Better the Pond through the Women Forward Program to help women build a better financial future. Thank you for everything that you do to #betterthepond!
Sophie is creating some serious ripples in the pundit Wealth Co. Growing up in small town Saskatchewan, Sophie was always curious about what makes tick, how they were different, and how to embrace those differences.
Now an HR guru, Sophie is doing the same thing at Wealth Co. by meeting people where they are and helping them grow and develop... their way. She leads the team at Wealth Co. by trusting her gut, seeing obstacles as opportunities, and knowing that it is not about her, but about others. Thank you for being YOU, and what you do to Better the Pond!
I'm kinda scrappy!! Kathleen is a natural storyteller, a gift handed down from her father. Kathleen was born in Lethbridge, Alberta, and moved around the prairie provinces and was always inspired by her mother who was the family cheerleader. As you will discover, Kathleen is empathetic, dramatic, expressive, and unapologetically authentic. Kathleen's talent is in understanding people, making connections, and creating an inclusive community.
Kathleen and local laundry Better The Pond through their giving garments campaigning plan to donate more than $1,000,000 to charity. That's worth talking about!!
There are not a lot of people that I know who would jump out of a plane without a parachute, but James is one of them. The son of a World War II war hero, James lives his life with no excuses, and is clearly a Dad first, business second kind of guy. To the point that he only wants to talk to 0.1% of the population, so that the other 99% of the people don't take time away from his family. Justin connects people in a way that is exceptional, powerful, meaningful, and gets results. Operating from a give to give to those who get it mentality is Justin's way to Better The Pond. If you are a Dad, be a Dad, if you are an Entrepreneur, be an Entrepreneur. Win in life and family first, business second.
Thank you for everything that you do to Better the Pond Justin.
A son of immigrant parents, Amreesh learn all about community, mentoring, helping others, and making an impact. People would come see his father for guidance, inspiration, and education. Years later, Amreesh doing the same for others in the dental industry. It doesn't stop there. Amreesh has helped create the shine dental clinic in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada for inner city families. His present endeavour is the Cause to Smile campaign to support such worthwhile causes as the women's outreach centre in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. This is only the beginning. This Pondcast will definitely make you smile!!
Who wouldn't want to change the life of a child? David is passionate about kids, community growth, and empowering kids to be themselves, take risks so that they can go out into the world and create ripples. David was once asked the question ' Why do you do what you are doing?" This question, combined with his experiences of going to camp put him on his path to where he is now, leading Brigadoon Village in Halifax, Nova Scotia. If you want to listen to someone who is doing some world class to Better The Pond, listen to David Graham.
Know you value and be kind to others. This prairie girl who discovered her dream job has always had a passion for helping entreprenuers and local business. Learning from her immigrant father, she saw first hand what hard work, innovation and determination can do to grow a community. Verna has the super power of empathy. Really caring and seeking to understand what others need in order to be successful. She does this everyday at Community Futures Sunrise to help businesses and the community grow. Have a listen to how Verna and her team Better the Pond!
I don't know a kid growing up every said "When I grow up, I want to be a CFO" From Randy's humble beginnings in DouglasTown and Gaspè, Quebec, Randy just had a way with numbers. He could just magically see how everything came together with ease. Even his parents and grand parents were in awe of his wizardry with numbers.
Randy is all about community and is a master communicator, as well as a natural teacher. He is Bettering the financial Pond through Junior Achievement Canada by teaching grade 8 students financial literacy. He also helps through the Community Collect Network by volunteering for the financial literacy program, and is also the financial wizard for Ottawa Therapy Dogs helping mental health issues in youth, schools, and rehabilitation centres.
Thank you Randy.
When someone tells me that they want to help single mom's and their children around the world, they have my attention. Layna is all about community, connecting, constant growth, and leaving a legacy of love. You may have heard the saying that you cannot pour from an empty cup, but Layna's vision is to have people's cups so overflowing that they have to pour from their saucer. Layna is the visionary who started Kaleo Collective and is helping single mom's and their children and is bettering the pond for future generations. I am inviting you to spend some time with Layna Haley.
How do you fight an invisible opponent? For 40 years Andre fought his ADHD, but has now made his invisible opponent visible. After many years being the odd duck and not fitting in, he realized that this aspect of himself wasn't something that was wrong with him, it wasn't the enemy. It is what made him who he was, and how it was a strength. He is giving high performing people with ADHD a voice through his company Tactical Breakthroughs and his soon to be released podcast - The Impulsive Thinker. Thank you Andre for helping us in our impulsive pond!
He has lived the life of a design squiggle. Nothing has ever been in a straight line for John Kay. His life has been a consistent squiggly path of learning and adventure. He started out as an odd duck in London, Ontario Canada, and after years of being bullied in school, he migrated out west. John is the owner and CEO of Realize Strategies in Vancouver British Columbia, Canada.
John continuously throws pebbles in the pond and through his collaborative work with mission driven organizations, he is making a tremendous impact on the world. Thank you John, for everything you do to #betterthepond
From farmer to successful owner in the marketing and advertising industry. Kim McConnell started with humble beginnings on the family farm in Hamiota, Manitoba Canada. He left the farm to go to university where he got a degree in agriculture, then saw an opportunity to help people in the agriculture community through media and advertising. Kim's incredibly strong belief in community is admirable, and his passion is infectious. Kim sits on many boards, helped establish the Top 70 over 70, and the Intergen Organization that helps mentors you entrepreneurs in Calgary, Canada. This are only some of the many ways of what Kim does to Better the Pond! Thank you for creating so many ripples Kim!
From humble beginnings in Wakefield, England, Chris's grandmother showed him the value of a strong work ethic, food as medicine, and caring for our planet. Chris went to university to become a doctor, but at the last minute decided that this was not his path. The food industry is what lit him up, and is now leading the way in the meatless protein based food industry. Force for good is the mantra of Lovingly Made Ingredients, and that they are! Lovingly Made Ingredients has donated enough product for 500,000 meals for the First Nations communities and other people in need. Chris, I must say that I am very Pea-leased to have you as a guest and thank you for everything that you do to better the pond!
Stand by the net and I will get you the puck. As a kid playing hockey in Russell Manitoba, his job was to set up other players for success. Interesting enough, it is the same thing that he is doing today. Theo is helping keep peoples flames lit by instilling confidence, understanding and compassion. Theo's tumultuous past has provided him the gift of adversity, courage and vulnerability which provides people the gift to do the same. Theo is creating truly magical ripples in our pond. Thank you Theo for being such a great example of what we can do to help those who struggle to help themselves. #betterthepond
Never waste a moment is Hugh's mantra. A fisherman's son on the Newfoundland Coast turned plastic recycler to save the planet. Hugh's humble beginnings and a strong sense of community has weaved throughout his life and has driven his belief in people, passion and purpose. Hugh grew up wanting more, being more, and is not only doing that for the people in his company, but for the world. Clean River recycling is making a serious impact on our pond. Thank you Hugh for what you do to #betterthepond
Cold beer and collabortition. Got your attention yet? Byron is all about Collaboration, leadership, and community. An avid reader and learner, Byron graduated with honours from the University of Life. Byron is all about building relations, building buildings, and innovating new ways of doing business. His high school guidance counsellor told that he would be lucky if he would make it to community college. This ended up being the best thing that he could have told him as that is what inspired him to be doing what he is doing today!
Byron is continuously creating ripples by helping his community grow, inspiring and leading those around him to be come better and helping organizations like the YW Hub assisting women in need, and created designers, builders, and brews and creating collaboration in industries where only competition existed (thus collabortition). Thank you for everything you do to #betterthepond Byron. Cheers!!
Let me hold the ladder.... Nicole figured out that true leadership wasn't about climbing on top of others heads to get to the top, it was about holding the ladder so that others could succeed. Three words capture the essence of todays guest, community, belonging, and contribution. I can help with that is the never ending quote that continuously comes out of Nicole's mouth.
Growing up in the woods of Sorrento British Columbia, her all time happy place was the park where everyone would gather and create community. Christmas was straight outa Who-Ville.
Working in a homeless shelter, then in business and marketing, serving and retail, and if you see a trend here, it's all about serving others. Nicole's true talents are shining through as she rolls out The Brokers Care Campaign through the Insurance Brokers Association of Saskatchewan.
PS. She is also a puppy foster.
Nicole, Thank you for everything that you do to #betterthepond! You make the world a better place!
The days listening to his transistor radio as a child led Kevin on his journey to be a place of certainty for others, and helping them find their north star. The No Schedule Man is here!!
An off the cuff remark lit a fire in Kevin that could not be put out. As Kevin wisely states, you can't find your treasure by following someone else's map.
Kevin helps small and medium size businesses discover their story, and helps them fly like a phoenix and race like a turtle. You will have to listen to understand what this means. Thank you for everything you do to Better the Pond, Kevin!
Growing up in an atheist home, at the age of 7 years old, Ruth-Anne would sneak out of the house and go to Sunday School. She has always felt a guiding hand leading her along life's journey. She has always felt the need to create inclusion, do more, be better, and leave people better than she found them. Living my best life everyday is Ruth-Anne's motto. She continues to better the pond everyday at TEC Canada, but has also left her mark in Haiti, Columbia, Dominican Republic and other locations world wide. Thank you Ruth-Anne.
Tim has this uncanny ability to see around corners. Always innovative and looking for different ways of doing things helped create his company Local and Fresh. Born and raised in Filmore Saskatchewan, Tim got a taste of entrepreneurship and what it meant to follow your passion. Tim is all about helping young people develop their entrepreneurial skills and confidence, and helping people eat healthy local food. Thank you Tim for continue to create ripples and #betterthepond.
"Our happiness best grows when transplanted in the soil of other peoples lives!" Dave speaks on whole-hearted leadership and his business philosophy of "Prosperity for Purpose" . "Meant to be Spent" is his philosophy of life and leadership. The list of what Dave has done to #betterthepond is extensive and truly inspiring. He is the epitome of what this Pondcast is all about. Thank you for continually creating ripples.
Hang on for this adventure with Cindy Radu. Just try it!!!! How will you ever know if you don't try??? Here is someone to listen to who has done it all. World traveller, mountain climber, accountant, lawyer, author, speaker, and I could go on, and on, and on..... Cindy has felt the highs of being on top of the mountains, and has experienced the lows of well below the surface. All these experiences have contributed to her ability to #betterthepond for mental health and women of courage.
Tell me that I can't!!! These are only words of motivation for Jo. Born and raised in Weyburn, Saskatchewan, and the youngest of 5, Jo always found her way of getting things done! Wickedly smart and full of creativity, Jo found her way into the fashion world, and now owns and operates Cedar & Vine clothing. Jo believes in the slow fashion model to reduce landfill waste of clothing. She is also restoring a historic building in Weyburn to create business opportunities in her community. Jo exemplifies what it means to #betterthepond. Thank you Jo!
Taking out the boulders in the stream that are getting in the way of being your best self is Erin's passion, Being bullied as a little girl, and going through unexplained debilitating pain and depression guided her to have her breakthrough moment.
This is what drove Erin to help so many others get through their mental blocks, and in turn, better the pond!! Thank you Erin, for your compassion, empathy, and for every single ripple that you create in the pond!!!
Calgary born and raised, this guy is the real deal! Mike is just an all around great guy, and would give you the shirt off his back before you even asked. Mike's very simple golden rules, work hard, be honest, do good for others. Graham auctions is always supporting local community programs such as the Girl Guides, local sports teams, and they regularly donate clothes for those in need. Mike is a guy who lives the #betterthepond movement.
https://grahamauctions.com
A self proclaimed misfit, Joop see's the strengths in people versus their weakness or dysfunction. From across the pond in North Holland, he has not only helped in his own backyard, but also in South Africa and the Philippines. Nope understands that it costs nothing to be kind, and to have gratitude to what we already have. Nope is always creating ripples in the pond, which have gone well beyond the pebble he threw in.
How do you define success was the pivotal question that changed Amy's life. Born in Argentina, then moving to Brazil, and then landing in Arizona, Amy always felt like the odd duck for being a woman wanted to lead and have a professional career. Now, the president of Kolbe Corp., and author, speaker and trainer, Amy discovered that doing things her way and the freedom to be herself became her definition of success. Amy is passionate about helping people, especially helping youth discovering their instinctive talents. She believes that creating these ripples are what will continue to go out and better the pond!
Just be wild!! Candyce lives her life as it is a gift. Full of adventure, curiosity and drive, she started tarted working at the age of 13, and never stopped. She now runs 3 organizations, and is a woman to be reckoned with. Going through a major trauma and having an acquired brain injury, Candyce has used this as fuel to do well for others. Candyce exemplifies what we can all do to better the pond. Thank you Candyce!!!
An inspiring episode about how someone can take a negative and turn it into a positive. From being adopted at the age of 2 and not meeting his father until he was 34, to his ADHD being both a blessing and a curse, Ken leads a very successful business and the only indigenous led company in his field.
Ken created the Don't Scrap- Give Back Program, the True North Strong Foundation, and he directly supports the community of Fort McMurray. Thank you Ken for doing what you do to Better The Pond!!
"Laughter is an instant vacation" The inspiring and wise words of Tim Beach confirms why everyday is a celebration at Charlesglen Toyota. From the heart of the prairies and the land of living skies of Weyburn, Saskatchewan, Tim learned the value of hard work and dedication to doing what needs to get done. With a love affair for automobiles, Tim has spent his entire career in the industry now operating an award winning dealership in Calgary Alberta. Thanks for remaining to be a Rider fan Tim!
Tim's energy is contagious, and he believes that everyone matters, therefore celebrating everyday is how Tim does his part to Better The Pond.
Sometimes what you think is your biggest weakness becomes your greatest strength. Jamie's sensitivity guided him to be an incredible teacher, author, speaker, and facilitator. Jamie believes in being of value to others, and he lives this belief in his work of helping leaders through grapho-therapy, and his Saturday Night Leaders program. His book "Live From Your Class- Everything I learned about teaching, I learned from Saturday Night Live" is an Amazon best seller. Jamie is presently working ion a project to help a 1,000,000 people, now, that is how you #betterthepond. Thank you Jamie!
Heather Murphy, the surrogate mother of peoples dreams. Growing up in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, she learned the richness of family, community, creativity, and play. Heather travelled the world, became the first female in Canada to be on the Forbe's Coaches Council, and started her own business Authentically, and she never stops. Heather contribution to #betterthepond is helping women in Rwanda get skills and financial backing to become business owners, and always lighting up a room when she walks in. Thank you Heather, you were a great guest. This is one worth listening to!
Good Better Best. Never let it rest. Til your good gets better, and your better gets best! Words of wisdom from Brady's mom that she has learned to live by. Brady has embraced her "odd duckness" and turned it into her confidence, understanding, and leadership abilities. Brady has an incredibly big heart and helps people live happier and healthier lives and therefore creates the ripple effect for everyone around her. She is presently bettering the pond by her 30 days of giving, have a listen. Thank you Brady!
Creating the worlds most dangerous shirts is nothing to be taken lightly. Jeff's military background mixed with his business education, and layering in his incredible sense of style is what makes him the successful entrepreneur that he is today. His mantra of thank about it, be about it is how he lives his life. He provided masks to his local school not only to keep kids and teachers safe, but also to make them feel equal. Through tough times, Jeff still gets out there and find the time to #betterthepond. Thank you Jeff!
I thought that when the motivation guru's told me that failure is one of the greatest gifts, I thought that they were full of sh%$#. Now I get it. From ball boy with the Saskatchewan Roughrider Football Club, to falling into the restaurant business, Tim has a fantastic story of how some of those defining moments in life can change everything, and we can't explain why. Thank you for all you do to #betterthepond Tim, and for being a fantastic guest.
Hitting a golfball 350 yards, 2 feet, 2 inches is the least that Lisa is capable of doing. An elementary school teacher, turned golf teacher, to keynote speaker. You can watch Lisa wake surfing in a housecoat, goalie gear, and Toronto Raptor gear catching the attention of TSN and Pepsi. Lisa's energy is contagious, and it rolls out in every aspect of her life. Listen to how Lisa gets to better the pond by inspiring people to find their greatness. Thank you Lisa, it was an honour.
The gift in the ugly box, that is what Jason calls it when the so called negative events of your life turn into gifts. This was a great pondcast full of nuggets of wisdom. Business mentor, coach, and incredible human being, Jason Kolevski, or J.K. tells his story and what he is doing to #betterthepond. Thank you Jason!
Author, speaker, life coach and entrepreneur, Dr. Leah Reddig tells her story of living in Kenya, Dubai, and eventually Germany, and the lessons along the way. Her belief in reciprocity, helping people live their true purpose is how Leah leads the charge of generosity, and the pond is better with her in it! Thank you so much Leah!
Dave Carroll who single handedly took on United Airlines after they refused to take responsibility for breaking his guitar. With a small budget and a camera, Dave took to YouTube with his song United Breaks Guitars and became the #1 watched video on YouTube. Dave is an award winning singer-songwriter, author, and speaker who inspires others through storytelling. Dave's compassion was palpable, and knows what it is all about to #betterthepond.
Keynote speaker, author, and laughter mixologist. Brain tells his story of getting knocked down, getting back up, and wanting to leave fingerprints on the moon. Thank you Brian for everything that you do to #betterthepond.
International speaker, author of 2 fantastic books, and shameless Calgary Flames fan, Gair Maxwell talks about his story, the bumps along the way, what he learned, and what he has done to #betterthepond. Thank you Gair!
An amazing story with a young girl who suffered from epilepsy and seizures, to her wish coming true at Disneyworld, and what she is doing to #betterthepond. Her response is to just throw glitter on it, I think it is much bigger than that. Thank you to Caileigh and her Mom, Melissa for everything that they do to #betterthepond. This was a very fun Pondcast.
Through the Co-Vid 19 pandemic, Mark and his wife Katie from The Everyday Kitchen took 100% of their profit and raised $50,000 to support their local community. They truly believe that all profitable businesses should give back to the community that supports them. Not only do they make great doughnuts, they are amazing people doing incredible things. Thank you Mark!! You and Katie #betterthepond
The CEO and Founder of The Honest Edge, who is a amazing coach and counsellor, wickedly smart, engaging, and who is one to help people sit in the fire to help them transform and grow. Shawna gets to #betterthepond by helping people unload their burden to give them freedom and happiness. You have to listen to what Shawna has to say. Brilliant!
Brian Burkhart- Best selling author of Stand for Something, Founder and Chief Word Guy of Square Planet Productions tells his story, and what he is doing to #betterthepond. My wish is to have more people like Brian on the planet, round or square, I'm good with it. Listen in to hear what he has to say. I hope that you leave inspired, and create your own ripples.
From a farm boy in Bruno Saskatchewan, to working in the Ag Sector for Government, now the CEO of Protein Industries Canada, a supercluster leading the way to help the agriculture industry in Western Canada. Listen to what Bill has to say about running a structural work culture to a values based work culture and what he is doing to better the pond for his people.
Kendal grew up on SweetGrass First Nations Reserve, from there he became a 4X Entrepreneur of the Year, winner of the Canada Top 40 under 40, a best selling author of the book Driven to Succeed, owns the successful clothing line Neechie Gear, and loves working with businesses to solve big problems. Hear what Kendal is doing to #betterthepond
Mark Heise from Rebellion Brewing Company talks about the amazing things they are doing to lead the charge of generosity in Regina. Not only are they do amazing things to help the community, they make great beer!
Listen to what Stu Starkey of Two Small Men with Big Hearts Moving Company is doing to better the pond in their community and beyond. Stu was inspiring, and helped me learn about the strength and courage when facing a disability.
International keynote speaker, film producer, and entrepreneur Edward Fitzgerald talks to us about how his acquired brain injury, although extremely difficult, was really a gift, but it helped him trust his instincts. It was his doctor who told him that he had plateaued, that launched him forward. We also talk about his mission to transform 3 billion lives.