Bruce Mayhew has spent more than 20 years helping executives, managers, and entrepreneurs improve communication skills, boost leadership development, and increase organizational performance. He's just released an exciting new book called The Path of an Inspired Leader, a book that focuses on empathy, self-awareness, and human connection as the foundation of effective leadership.

During the conversation, Bruce challenges the traditional idea that leaders must have all the answers. Instead, he argues that authenticity and trust matter more than authority. “Authenticity doesn’t mean that I have to be perfect,” he explains. “It actually sometimes means I’m vulnerable. It means being able to say I don’t know.” 

According to Bruce, many business owners spend too much time proving their credentials instead of showing clients how they care about their needs. The discussion also explores how “human skills” — empathy, curiosity, communication, and emotional intelligence — give entrepreneurs a competitive advantage. Listen in for ways to build trust, improve emotional intelligence, and lead teams with confidence.

BruceMayhewConsulting.com
Find Bruce on LinkedIn
Get his new book: The Path of an Inspired Leader

Host Roger Pierce interviews Mark Bowden, ranked the World’s #1 Communication Keynote Speaker (Global Gurus 2026) and voted three-times as the #1 Body Language Professional in the world. Mark is the founder of Truthplane.com, a bestselling author, and co-host of The Behavior Panel — one of YouTube's most popular shows on body language and human behavior with more than 1.1 million subscribers.

Recognized globally for his work on nonverbal communication, Mark's clients include Zoom, Shopify, Toyota, KPMG, American Express, the U.S. Army, and NATO.

In this conversation, Mark and Roger explore a critical truth for entrepreneurs: your business is judged through you before it is judged on your product. As Mark puts it, “The way your product and your service is initially going to get judged and continue to be judged is on your performance in front of people.”

You’ll learn why first impressions are difficult to undo, the body language mistakes many founders make under pressure, and how entrepreneurs can project calm authority when the stakes are high.  Mark and Roger also talk about making videos, books, credibility, and why communication may be the most powerful competitive advantage an entrepreneur can develop.

Resources:
Truthplane.com
The Behavior Panel on YouTube
Mark Bowden on LinkedIn

Their flagship product, the Steadi-3, is a wearable glove that reduces tremors for over 75% of users and has helped more than 5,000 people regain independence. Getting there wasn't easy — it took five years and multiple iterations to reach market. "Whatever you think it's going to take to build, multiply that number by three,” emphasizes Emile.

Listen to this podcast if you want to learn how to raise money for your business: Steadiwear has secured over $5 million in funding from angel investors, government incentives, and grants  — including winning the $10,000 Zensurance Small Business Grant in 2025.

Emile shares lessons about manufacturing, regulation, reimbursement hurdles, and raising capital. His core advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is direct: “Who's going to pay for this?”

Resources:
Zensurance Small Business Grant (*Apply by March 3, 2026 for the $10,000 grant*)
Steadiwear.com
Emile Maamary on LinkedIn
New book! The Unsure Entrepreneur

On his popular podcast The Heavy Duty Parts Report, Jamie and his guests discuss tips, tools, and technology that help heavy-duty parts manufacturers and distributors. In our conversation, Jamie explains why trucking is the backbone of the economy, noting that most grocery stores hold only three days of inventory and that if trucks stopped rolling, “within a few days people start dying.” That reality makes the industry an early warning system for broader economic trouble. He also shares why layoffs among drivers and mechanics signal deeper issues in Canada’s economy.

The discussion then turns to what Jamie calls the “sales prevention department” — the internal friction that makes it harder for customers to buy. He argues every company has one, and the goal is to shrink it. From delayed follow-ups to confused roles, small breakdowns cost real money.

Jamie offers clear advice on separating business development from account management, focusing on strengths, and designing sales teams that actually work. He also shares a practical closing technique that replaces pressure with silence and insight. As Jamie puts it, “The best pressure you can put on a buyer is silence.” The episode is packed with usable lessons for entrepreneurs at any stage.

Resources:
Check out Jamie's podcast The Heavy Duty Parts Report
Visit Jamie on LinkedIn
Visit Heavy Duty Parts Consulting Corporation

She helps lead RBC’s national small business strategy and played a central role in the 2025 RBC Small Business Poll. The results are very exciting — with 59% of Canadians saying they want to start a business, and a whopping 81% believing business ownership is a viable way to earn a living. Ontario leads the country, with 68% showing entrepreneurial ambition, followed by Atlantic Canada and the Prairies.

In the pod Karen talks about why independence, flexibility, and purpose now matter more than traditional career paths. "People want more control over their time and their long term prospects, and they want the ability to shape that future for themselves and for their family," says Karen.

She also speaks candidly about blockers such as uncertainty, access to funding, lack of confidence, and not knowing where to begin. RBC wants to make it easier to get going. ”We think that a big part of our role is making the early stages feel less overwhelming. So we help people understand the practical steps to take, from registering their business to working through their business plan to securing or identifying sources of financing."

Resources mentioned:
RBC tools, resources, learning, & partnerships to start or grow a business
RBC 2025 Small Business Poll results

A trailblazer in the world of entrepreneurship advocacy, Rieva worked for 25 years as Editorial Director of Entrepreneur Magazine. She’s a best-selling author of several books, including Start Your Own Business and Small Business Hacks: 100 Shortcuts to Success. She’s written about small business issues for The Huffington Post, Entrepreneur Magazine, and AllBusiness.com. She now runs her own site SmallBusinessCurrents.com, where she publishes data-driven insights about consumer behaviour, industry trends, business opportunities, and, of course, advice for entrepreneurs. Unsurprisingly, Rieva's impact has been recognized by the U.S. Small Business Administration and she's been inducted into the Business Journalists Hall of Fame.

In our interview, Rieva explains why fear plays a useful role when you start a business. As she puts it, “Fear tells you what to look at… Fear is not there to stop you.” She discusses the rise of mid-career entrepreneurs, noting that “the typical age of startup is mid-40s to mid-50s.” She also identifies fast-growing opportunities in home improvement, beauty, ageing-in-place, niche consumer products, and male grooming — and shares fascinating stories of entrepreneurs who made it big.

Amazing insights await! Enjoy this conversation with one of my professional heroes.

Resources:
SmallBusinessCurrents.com
Rieva Lesonsky on LinkedIn

Why is this important for entrepreneurs? Employees in speak-up cultures are 92% more likely to stay and perform at their best. Through his company, Shed Inspires, he teaches that “we can’t ask people to perform at their best if we haven’t created an environment in which they feel it’s psychologically safe to do so.”

From psychological safety to feedback and self-awareness, Stephen’s message is clear: leadership starts the day you hire your first team member. And his definition of leadership is simple but powerful. “Leadership is the attempt to leave the people and world around you better than when you found them.”

Visit his website ShedInspires.com
Buy his book Speak-Up Culture on Amazon

On this special Accountex 2025 episode of The Unsure Entrepreneur Podcast, Roger Pierce talks with Ryan Lazanis, CPA, Founder of Future Firm. Ryan built and sold Zen Accounting, one of Canada’s first 100% cloud-based firms, and now helps thousands of accounting professionals create modern practices that deliver profit and lifestyle.

“It’s hard to scale advice,” Ryan says. “But if you standardize your offer and productize your services, you remove variables and free yourself from being the bottleneck.” On the subject of fees, a sensitive area for most accounting professionals, he shares why three-tier pricing works: “With one option, you’re nervous to raise prices. With three options, you can be aggressive—and most clients pick the middle.”

Ryan also opens up about how AI is reshaping the profession, including his own experiment with cloning his voice and avatar to deliver a recent online presentation. While excited about AI’s potential, he’s cautious: “I think it’s actually going to make our lives more difficult, not easier, because expectations are so much higher now.”

> Catch Ryan’s Accountex 2025 Keynote in Toronto on Nov 5, where he’ll reveal insights from the Top 50 Modern Accounting Firm Survey.
> Attend Roger's session on How to Close More Sales for Your Accounting Practice also on Nov 5.

Important links:
FutureFirm.co
Accountex Canada 2025 on Nov 4 & 5

He even explains how doing Rick Green’s taxes (yes, that guy from The Red Green Show) helped him learn business basics, why recurring revenue beats “dragging an elephant back to the office,” and how asking for advice is the best sales pitch you’ll ever make.

I've known Paul for years and wanted to hear his unique take on small business ownership. “An entrepreneur is someone who is absolutely certain of success and surprised when it happens,” Paul quips. We talk about Hackintoshes, YouTube tricks, and why it’s smart to keep your employees at arm’s length (hint: they’re not your friends).

And here’s a gem revealed in the podcast — Paul tells us that he met his wife because of John Candy, the revered Canadian comic legend.

This episode is part strategy, part stand-up. You’ve been warned.

Resources mentioned:
Call Me Chato on YouTube
Call Me Chato video about John Candy
aPauling News on YouTube
Your Web Department
The Frantics

Host Roger Pierce talks with Ric Phillips, Founder of 3V Communications, to explore why developing communication skills is make-or-break factor for new and existing entrepreneurs.

Ric has been coaching entrepreneurs and professionals since 2006, helping them master verbal, vocal, and visual communication. With an MBA and a background in sociology and psychology, Ric combines academic insight with practical coaching experience. He also serves as Director of the York Entrepreneurship Development Institute (YEDI) and Executive Director of the National Communication Coaching Association of Canada.

Ric explains his “3V” framework — verbal, vocal, and visual — as a tool to align words, tone, and body language for maximum impact. He stresses that confidence and competency fuel each other in a cycle: “The more competent you are at something, you get more confident, and the more confident you are, the more chances you take.”

The conversation highlights the cost of poor communication: 68% of consumers have walked away from a business relationship because of it. Ric argues that entrepreneurs must pair technical details with emotional storytelling to connect with their audience. He also points out that nonverbal cues outweigh verbal ones “every single time,” making body language and delivery as critical as the content itself.

Listeners will learn how to improve trust through comfort, why a pitch needs both emotional and technical balance, and why investing in communication skills pays off throughout your business journey. As Ric notes, “There’s no magic bullet… but there are tools available that give us structure.”

Resources mentioned:
NCCA
3V Communications
YEDI

Faith founded Rapport Communications Inc. and grew it into a thriving agency with 10 employees and even acquired another firm. But after years of success, something shifted. “I wasn’t happy anymore,” she says. That realization sparked a bold decision to dismantle what she had built and return to working on her own terms.

Later, after a personal loss pulled her away from the business, Faith came to a deeper understanding of what truly energized her: writing. “I couldn’t get motivated to return,” she recalls. “I realized I was happiest when I was writing.” 

Faith speaks candidly about the emotional weight of letting go, the risks of staying stuck in an identity that no longer fits, and the power of following your creative instincts. One of her core lessons: “You don’t have to be miserable doing the things you’re bad at. Hire help, even if it’s not billable.”

Her story is a reminder that in business, you may not end up where you began — and that may be a good thing.

Resources:
Website Rapport Communications 

Faith Seekings on LinkedIn

Jamie shares how he turned podcasting into a career amplifier. What started as a solo side project with a poor webcam and free editing tools became a strategic marketing channel that helped him land consulting gigs, attract high-value clients, and close six-figure sponsorship deals. He stresses the importance of niching down. “The subject was too broad,” Jamie says about his first podcast. “It never really broke into a position where I could monetize it.”

You'll learn why choosing a narrow topic creates stronger audience engagement and business alignment. Jamie explains that a niche podcast allows you to go “an inch wide and a mile deep,” unlocking repeatable content ideas and positioning the host — not the guest — as the trusted expert.

Resources mentioned in this episode:
Jamie Irvine on LinkedIn
Heavy Duty Parts Report website & podcast
Entrepreneurs On Fire Podcast with John Lee Dumas
The E-Myth by Micheal E. Gerber

In this episode of The Unsure Entrepreneur Podcast, host Roger Pierce speaks with Scott Stirrett, Founder and CEO of Venture for Canada, a national charity helping young Canadians gain entrepreneurial experience and skills. Since 2013, Scott and his team have raised more than $80 million and supported over 10,000 early-career professionals through fellowships, internships, and real-world work placements in small businesses across the country.

Scott is also the author of the upcoming book The Uncertainty Advantage, a guide for early-career professionals on how to thrive in a world of constant change.

In the discussion, Scott shares why Canada is facing an entrepreneurship gap. “There are 100,000 fewer entrepreneurs in Canada than there were 20 years ago,” he says. With 42% of Canadian small businesses owned by baby boomers — and over 54,000 businesses currently for sale — the opportunity for young Canadians to step in is massive.

That’s where Venture for Canada’s innovative Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition Academy comes in. The course teaches participants how to:

• Find and evaluate small businesses for sale.
• Finance a purchase using debt, equity, and seller notes.
• Negotiate deals and transition into ownership.

There are many good reasons why buying an existing business is a better path into entrepreneurship: there’s already cash flow, there’s a customer base, and the systems are in place. "It’s often a lot less risky to buy something that is already existing than to start something up completely from scratch,” Scott says in the episode. 

This episode is essential listening for aspiring entrepreneurs looking for a different way in. Enjoy!

Resources:

Venture for Canada

Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition Academy

Scott Stirrett book The Uncertainy Advantage

In this episode, Daryl Ching, CFA and Managing Partner at Vistance Accounting, shares what every founder needs to hear about accounting, cash flow, and the real cost of ignoring your books. 

With ten years on Bay Street and another decade advising startups, Daryl has seen it all—from failed capital raises to growth-stage wins. He’s been a trusted voice in the media recently, appearing on BNN Bloomberg and The Globe & Mail to talk about interest rates, recession signals, and small business risk.

Daryl outlines how outsourcing accounting not only saves time but also boosts decision-making. A recent survey shows it frees up 9.1 hours per week and boosts owner confidence in 98% of cases. He explains why monthly financials by the 15th matter, how to find margin leaks in your product lines, and what to cut when expenses creep up. He also breaks down why fractional CFO services offer big value to small businesses. “If your accountant is six months behind, you're running your business on gut. That’s a huge risk.”

Listen for tax-saving strategies, how to clean up your books, tips to attract investors & more.

Resources:
Daryl Ching on LinkedIn
Vistance Accounting website

Leigh gets honest about self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the quiet fears that creep in at 4 a.m. “Even when you think you’ve got it figured out, those feelings still show up,” she admits. Her go-to strategies? Mindfulness, long-term thinking, and reminding herself that the goal is to serve others—not to be perfect.

Leigh shares how a volunteer trip planted the seed that led to a second career in teaching, and how she adapted her business when the pandemic hit. She also opens up about building resilience one step at a time—even when you feel foolish or uncertain.

If you’re wrestling with the question, “Do I have what it takes?” this episode will help you reframe those doubts and keep going.

Resources:

ChangeMakerco.org
ChangeMaker Collective Podcast
WomenInBizNetwork
Leigh Mitchell on LinkedIn 

On this episode of The Unsure Entrepreneur Podcast, host Roger Pierce speaks with Emily, a digital marketing strategist, AI educator, and founder of Compass Content Marketing—recently nominated for a Canadian SME Small Business Award. With over 15 years of experience, Emily now trains entrepreneurs, marketers, and nonprofits across Canada to adapt and grow in the digital world.

Emily shares how she built her business while holding onto her full-time job, working nights, weekends, and lunch breaks to minimize risk. Her advice: start small, build gradually, and focus on getting a few good clients first. “I didn’t have family money or a partner to support me — I needed to feel secure before I made the leap.”

She also talks about the practical role AI can play in helping entrepreneurs save time, improve marketing, and streamline operations. Emily encourages business owners to experiment with tools like ChatGPT, starting with low-stakes tasks. Other highlights from the conversation:

• Why 80% of your time should go to sales and marketing
• How to avoid being misled by the highlight reels on social media
• Why nearly 3 out of 4 Canadian businesses haven’t even started with AI — and what they’re missing

Whether you’re on the fence about entrepreneurship or unsure how to use AI effectively, Emily’s real-world approach offers encouragement without sugarcoating the challenges.

Resources
CompassContent.ca website
LinkedIn Profile
AI Training

From price fixing and bid rigging to deceptive marketing and monopolistic practices, Majid shares eye-opening insights on what’s legal, what’s not, and how entrepreneurs can protect themselves. “Our work is meant to foster a situation where small and medium-sized businesses have an equitable opportunity to compete,” he explains.

The best part? Help is free. The Competition Bureau investigates complaints from small business owners at no cost, offering a direct line of support if you suspect a competitor is blocking your growth. “If you're feeling squeezed out of a market, we want to hear about it,” says Majid. 

Plus, the Bureau’s Compliance Hub is packed with free resources to help you avoid costly legal missteps and stay on the right side of competition laws. And March 2025 is Fraud Prevention Month which is an annual campaign to help you recognize, reject and report fraud.

Listen to this episode to learn how to spot unfair practices, protect your business, and make sure the rules work in your favour. 

Resources 

• Competition Bureau Canada website
• Compliance Hub
• Complaint Form
• Check out Fraud Prevention Month March 2025
• For media queries / interview requests: media-cb-bc@cb-bc.gc.ca
• Subscribe to/unsubscribe from the Competition Bureau electronic distribution list
• Social media channels:
• https://twitter.com/CompBureau
• https://www.facebook.com/competitionbureaucanada
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/canadian-competition-bureau
• https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCWEkolOpjOruSK_lbGuhfVA

With 20 years in business, Bruce knows a thing or two about staying in the game. He discusses the popularity and misconceptions of starting a consulting business and emphasizes that while entry into the field is fairly easy, achieving lasting success requires perseverance, adaptability, and delivering exceptional value.

"Staying power is what surprises people. It's not about starting; it's about sustaining," he says in the podcast. 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone thinking about starting a B2B service-based business.

Resources:
Bruce Mayhew on LinkedIn
Bruce Mayhew Consulting website

Starting with a simple idea for improving campus safety, Dave and his brother Chris turned their vision into a trusted solution used by institutions across North America. Their journey ended with a multi-million-dollar acquisition. 

You’ll hear about the pitfalls of chasing rapid growth and the realities of bootstrapping, tech debt, and the long sales cycles of enterprise clients. In the podcast, Dave explains why market validation matters more than raising capital. "Your first customer is a better validator than a million dollars in funding," he says. 

He shares his thoughts on why persistence, iteration, and customer focus are the keys to success. Dave also discusses the realities of business ownership — from the challenges of bootstrapping to the importance of leadership. 

This episode is packed with practical insights: 
• Why rapid growth is overrated.
• How empathetic leadership creates stronger teams.
• Why consistent effort matters more than big wins. 

Following the sale of AppArmor, Dave and his brother Chris are now focused on sharing their business story and offering advice for entrepreneurs in their fantastic book and podcast, both called Startup Different.

Resources:
Startup Different book on Amazon
Startup Different podcast
Startup Different website

Episode highlights include:

• Insights on how regulatory pressures like the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism are reshaping supply chains.
• The importance of small and medium businesses in achieving net-zero goals, as 50% of GDP stems from companies with fewer than 500 employees.
• How Carbonhound serves as "the QuickBooks for carbon," providing cost-effective solutions for businesses without sustainability teams.

Sanders shares his journey from being inspired by environmental impacts to creating a scalable subscription-based business model. He also discusses the importance of passion in entrepreneurship, the role of authenticity in branding, and strategies for managing entrepreneurial stress. “If you’re not passionate about the problem you’re solving, you’re starting at a huge disadvantage,” Sanders says in the podcast. 

Links:

Carbonhound.com

Sanders Lazier on LinkedIn

Janice’s company Solo Traveler has transformed the solo travel industry by advocating for affordable travel experiences, partnering with companies that limit single supplements to 20% or less, and building a community of over 275,000 followers on Facebook. "Solo travel comes from a personal place for me," Janice explains, reflecting on how a life transition inspired her business.

Janice also shares insights into the financial aspects of running a content-based business, with income from direct sales advertising and other revenue streams like courses and programmatic ads. Her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs highlights the value of focusing on a niche market, listening to customers, and building resilience. "Listening to customers is key," she says, explaining how her readers' feedback on single supplements shaped her business model. 

She also discusses her work with Northstar Startups, which provides mentorship, resources, and a supportive community for people with barriers to traditional employment, including those in Toronto's underserved communities.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with practical advice on building a meaningful business that aligns with personal passions — whether it’s advocating for affordable solo travel or creating opportunities for self-employment through community support.

Resources:

Solo Traveler website

Janice Waugh on LinkedIn

Northstar Startups website

If you’re exploring entrepreneurship, consider this: A key advantage of franchising is the lower failure rate compared to traditional startups — under 20%, versus 50% for businesses started from scratch. 

"Franchising isn't just about buying a business; it's a time-compression strategy," Gary says. He describes the model as a guided path where franchisees benefit from established systems, coaching, and a community of other franchisees.

Gary explains the depth and scope of franchising in Canada, where franchises account for approximately 45% of all retail sales. While food and retail franchises are most visible, he emphasizes that the industry spans over 60 sectors, including services like groundskeeping and tutoring. 

Don’t want to invest a fortune? As Gary explains, there are franchises for all budgets ranging from small service-based franchises costing under $50,000 to large brick-and-mortar franchises that can exceed millions. And, with the Canada Small Business Financing Program, entrepreneurs can secure up to $500,000 in funding with a government guarantee. 

This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone considering franchising as a viable path to business ownership.

Resources

GaryPrenevost.com

YourE2EJourney.com

The Unstoppable Franchisee book on Amazon

LinkedIn Profile

Glen’s company partners with financial institutions across six countries to provide free, accessible educational content and tools for small business owners. These resources range from cash flow templates and business plan guides to webinars and financial calculators — all with the aim of helping businesses start, grow, and thrive. Content from The Small Business Company reaches millions of entrepreneurs globally.

In the conversation, Glen dives into how his background in education and entrepreneurship shaped the mission of The Small Business Company, and how the evolving relationship between banks and small businesses can improve financial health and business success globally. "Banks have an incredible opportunity to support small businesses not just by offering loans, but by providing practical, educational resources that empower owners to make smarter financial decisions," he says in the podcast.

Key takeaways include Glen's suggestions for creating content that helps banks engage meaningfully with small business customers and his thoughts on the future challenges for entrepreneurs. 

Links:
The Small Business Company
Glen Senior on LinkedIn
Email glen@tsbc.com

Dubbed the “Entrepreneur-Friendly Lawyer,” Albert offers actionable strategies for business owners looking to mitigate risk while still fostering growth. In the episode, he explains that legal protection is crucial but shouldn’t hold entrepreneurs back from taking smart risks. As he puts it, “You can’t grow a business by saying 'no' to everything. Success often comes when you balance risk with reward — sometimes the biggest gains happen when you're willing to step outside your comfort zone."

With over 20 years of legal experience across diverse industries such as video gaming, private equity, digital advertising, and customer loyalty, Albert currently serves as General Counsel and Chief Privacy Officer at Bond Brand Loyalty. He manages legal compliance, privacy, and risk management for the global customer engagement agency.

Throughout the podcast, Albert shares his unique perspective on aligning legal strategies with business growth, drawn from his work with both emerging startups and established enterprises. He also covers key topics such as choosing the right business structure, drafting solid contracts, and making smart decisions about client selection.

Links:
Albert Luk on LinkedIn

Sylvie and Mathieu share their insights on the fascinating research appearing in their recent BDC article titled, "Immigrant entrepreneurship is taking centre stage in Canada." (See link below).

In the podcast, you'll learn how immigrants are transforming the entrepreneurial landscape. For example, with 34% of all Canadian entrepreneurs being immigrants — a rate higher than other developed countries — immigrants are driving innovation, job creation, and economic growth.  The economic impact of immigrant entrepreneurs is significant, as Sylvie points out in the episode: "New entrepreneurs from other countries are responsible for 25% of net job creation in Canada, compared to 17% for businesses in the private sector."

The conversation highlights the challenges newcomers face, including access to financing, building credit history, and navigating cultural and regulatory differences. Tune in to discover how immigrants are shaping the future of business in Canada and explore the valuable resources available to support them, including BDC's initiatives for newcomer entrepreneurs.

Links from the podcast:
BDC Article Immigrant entrepreneurship is taking centre stage in Canada
BDC Resources & Loans for Newcomer Entrepreneurs
BDC Entrepreneur Toolkit
BDC Business Assessments & Quizzes
Sylvie Ratté on LinkedIn
Mathieu Galliot on LinkedIn
Follow @bdc_ca
Article on UnsureEntrepreneur site

What's clear in the interview is how valuable this resource is to aspiring entrepreneurs. Brock LINC is more than just a program—it’s a hub that nurtures innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship. “We focus a lot on the early stage,” says Cassie. “Students come to us with great ideas, but they don’t always know what to do next. We help them figure that out.”

Cassie shares her insights on the supports Brock LINC offers to help early-stage entrepreneurs validate their ideas, develop their skills, and build viable businesses. For future business owners, she talks about the importance of customer discovery, mentorship, and having an entrepreneurial mindset. Cassie also highlights Brock LINC’s fascinating success stories—such as a virtual reality company training firefighters, and a safety wear company for workers at heights.

Visit Brock LINC
Cassie Conte on LinkedIN

Mathew shares his journey in revolutionizing business education through the creation of advanced educational games and simulations, such as the GoVenture Entrepreneur simulation. He discusses the importance of experiential learning in entrepreneurship, the value of embracing failure, and how his products are helping both students and professionals develop essential business skills. Mathew also offers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of side hustles, financial literacy, and leveraging tools like simulations to prepare for real-world business challenges.

"Entrepreneurs solve problems, drive innovation, take risks, and create jobs. It's not just about wealth; it's about distributing that wealth to many, not just a few," says Mathew in the podcast.

Resources:
Georghiou.com
Matthew Georghiou on LinkedIn

Brian talks about his transition from working in executive roles at prestigious publications such as The Wall Street Journal, Entrepreneur Magazine, and Inc. Magazine to founding his own companies, Brian Moran & Associates and Small Business Edge. The conversation delves into Brian's passion for supporting small business owners, his insights on foundational business planning, and the significance of having a GPS plan over a rigid business plan.

"Imagine having a GPS plan for your business," he says in the podcast. "When you encounter a traffic jam, you don't just sit there — you find an alternate route. The same applies to business. A GPS plan allows you to pivot and adapt, ensuring you're always moving toward your destination."

Brian also discusses the challenges faced by small business owners, the critical role of discipline, commitment, and accountability in achieving success, and the abundance of resources available for entrepreneurs. One of those resources is his popular podcast for business owners called The Small Business Edge, where Brian extracts business insights and lessons from entrepreneurs, executives, and experts. Brian wraps up the episode with advice for starting and sustaining a business, the need for thorough preparation, and the importance of surrounding yourself with advisors to hold you accountable to your goals.

 
Links:
Check out my recent interview on The Small Business Edge Podcast
Small Business Edge Content Zone
Brian Moran on LinkedIn
Brian Moran on X/Twitter

During the conversation, David emphasizes the importance of selling skills and relationship building in entrepreneurship. "If you learn how to sell, you'll never work for somebody else again," he asserts, highlighting how mastering sales can ensure control over one's destiny. He shares practical tips on how to build relationships, communicate effectively, and offer value to potential clients.

David also offers advice on securing funding and mentorship. He recommends tapping into local resources, such as economic development offices, banks, and organizations like Futurpreneur and the Business Development Bank of Canada.

Resources:

YourBigVenture website

David Cohen LinkedIn Profile

“26 Minutes With” Podcast

Maria discusses YEDI’s mission to support entrepreneurs through various programs, including their flagship incubator program and the one-year Entrepreneurship and Small Business Management Program. She highlights the importance of learning key business skills, having community support, and overcoming the fear of the unknown in entrepreneurship. Maria shares inspiring stories of entrepreneurs who have successfully navigated their business journeys with YEDI's help, emphasizing the value of mentorship and continuous learning. While many entrepreneurs are anxious to jump in without first investing in skills training, Maria believes “Having a strong educational foundation gives you the confidence to move forward."

Resources
YEDI website
Maria Konikov on LinkedIn

Bruce shares his experience in helping individuals and organizations improve their communication skills. He has worked with major companies such as TD Bank, Xerox Canada, YMCA, George Brown College, and the Canadian Down Syndrome Society. Bruce also served as president of the prestigious Downtown Toronto Toastmasters Club, where he developed his passion for guiding people to public speaking breakthroughs.

Throughout the interview, Bruce discusses the importance of confidence, preparation, and practice in public speaking. He redefines public speaking as any situation where you have an audience, emphasizing that effective communication is crucial for entrepreneurs. As Bruce puts it, “You have to start where you're at and just keep working at it.”

Join us as Bruce offers valuable tips for overcoming the fear of public speaking and shares inspiring stories from his workshops and coaching sessions. Whether you're pitching to investors, presenting to clients, or simply looking to improve your everyday communication skills, this episode is packed with insights to help you succeed.

Resources:
BruceHunt.ca
LinkedIn Profile

Patrick highlights the urgent need for Canadian businesses to embrace AI, citing low productivity growth and the opportunities AI presents to streamline operations, automate tasks, and ultimately improve the standard of living in Canada.

Patrick discusses the findings from his recent report, Prompting Productivity: Generative AI Adoption by Canadian Businesses which reveals that while interest in AI is high, actual adoption is still limited among Canadian businesses, especially small businesses. He emphasizes that AI can significantly augment workers' capabilities rather than replace them, providing practical examples of how AI can improve daily business tasks such as content creation, customer service, and data analysis. Patrick also underscores the importance of government support in upskilling the workforce and fostering a culture of innovation among Canadian businesses.

Key Takeaways:

• Canada faces a critical productivity gap, with growth rates lagging other G7 countries. AI adoption is essential to reversing this trend.
• Gen AI can automate low-value tasks, allowing workers to focus on higher-value activities, enhancing overall productivity.
• Only 38% of Canadians view AI positively, making them more nervous about AI compared to other countries.
• Small businesses, which constitute 98% of Canadian businesses, can leverage AI for tasks like content creation, customer service improvement, and data analysis.
• Government initiatives to upskill the workforce and support digital adoption are crucial for widespread AI implementation and improving public trust in AI technologies.

Enjoy this insightful conversation on a subject that’s very important to all Canadians.

Click to download the report ‘Prompting Productivity’

Read the media release from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce

Connect with Patrick Gill on LinkedIn
Read the blog article on UnsureEntrepreneur.com

In this episode of The Unsure Entrepreneur, host Roger Pierce interviews Chala Dincoy, CEO and founder of The Repositioning Expert (Repositioner.com). Chala shares her journey from a successful corporate marketer at companies like Pepsi and Frito-Lay to becoming a sought-after marketing coach who helps B2B service providers reposition their marketing messages to better connect with decision-makers.

Chala shares valuable insights into the concept of ‘super niching,’ where she advises businesses to narrow their focus to a specific niche market to differentiate themselves from competitors. She emphasizes that this approach not only makes the messaging more targeted and effective but also positions the business as an expert in solving specific problems. Chala says, "When you're super niched, your messaging conveys that you're an expert in their pain and that you serve nobody else but them.”​

Chala also discusses her ‘abundance mindset’ and encourages other entrepreneurs to believe in their value and charge accordingly. She explains that many new business owners underprice their services due to a ‘scarcity mindset,’ but shifting to an abundance mindset can transform their business success. "It's not about diplomas or certifications — it's all mindset. If you believe in your worth, others will too," she advises​​.

Website: Repositioner.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chaladincoy/ 

Twitter: @Chala_Dincoy

In this episode of The Unsure Entrepreneur Podcast, host Roger Pierce interviews Louis Trahan, the owner of Learngistics, a company specializing in corporate in-person and virtual learning experiences.

Louis shares his journey from founding Last Minute Training to expanding into corporate learning and virtual events through his current company called Learngistics. He talks about the challenge of organizing virtual events, how nervous people can be online, and the kinds of supports his company provides, including technical checks, event production — and arranging guest speakers and content, if requested. Along the way he shares his thoughts on delighting customers and maintaining high service standards.

He also discusses the urgency of AI readiness for businesses, explaining how AI can transform operations for both small and large enterprises. Louis emphasizes the nimbleness of small businesses in adopting AI, saying, "AI adoption can be a lot easier and quicker than for large enterprises." 

When asked about his advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, Louis recommends doing thorough market research and asking the "right questions" to potential customers before launching a business. 

Tune in to hear more about Louis' entrepreneurial path and insights on staying agile and client-focused in the business world.

Visit Learngistics
LinkedIn Profile

Rachel shares her diverse background from print to web design, and her journey to becoming one of the top designers recognized by Clutch.co. With a candid look into the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, Rachel discusses the essence of her design philosophy, which is deeply rooted in client satisfaction and tailored services.

Rachel provides invaluable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of adapting to client needs, the impact of receiving honest client feedback via platforms like Clutch, and how such interactions fuel her business’s success. She offers a wealth of knowledge for anyone interested in the intersections of creativity, client management, and entrepreneurship.

Visit VargaGirlDesign.com 

Nate delves into the nuances of business development within the architecture, engineering, and construction sectors, offering valuable advice for retaining clients and maximizing profitability. He shares personal stories of overcoming risk aversion and harnessing his technical background to create unique business opportunities, providing listeners with actionable tips for turning entrepreneurial aspirations into successful ventures.

[Visit Nate Simpson Business Development]

Janine shares her transition from a video production employee to the owner of a successful video production company that collaborates with giants like Toyota and BMW. Discover how Janine transformed her insight into a thriving business, the challenges she encountered, and her strategies for securing and retaining high-profile clients.

Whether you're a new business owner or dreaming of starting one, Janine offers practical advice on the importance of networking, adapting new business models, and maintaining relationships.

(Visit KeyRing Media)

In this revealing episode, Patrick shares his transformative journey from journalism to the founding of his PR firm, showcasing how a deep understanding of media can lead to groundbreaking campaigns. 

• Discover the secrets behind creating newsworthy content, mastering the art of the pitch, and turning mundane information into compelling stories that grab media attention. 
• Patrick also offers invaluable advice for new entrepreneurs, from navigating the shift from traditional employment to entrepreneurship, to innovative strategies for media engagement. 
• Learn how to use humor and creativity to make your mark in the business world. 

Whether you're in the early stages of your venture or looking to inject new life into your PR efforts, this episode provides essential insights into making impactful connections through media. Tune in to gain practical tips and inspiration from a seasoned expert who knows how to make the media work for you.

Website for Pointman News Creation: https://pointmannc.com/
Email Patrick McCaully: patrick@pointmannc.com

Andrew shares the lessons learned through failures, the evolution of his business into a retainer-based model offering outsourced social media management, and the importance of focused service offerings. In the podcast, he emphasizes the value of predictable revenue, work-life balance, and the autonomy entrepreneurship provides.

Listeners will gain insights into the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, the significance of testing ideas, and strategies for building a successful business with a stable income stream.

Check out Volterra Digital.

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Dive into The Unsure Entrepreneur Podcast with your host, Roger Pierce to unravel the mysteries of entrepreneurship. 

This podcast is your compass in the world of self-employment, guiding you through the highs and lows of starting a small business. With over 30 years of entrepreneurial experience, Roger doesn't just share his journey; he opens the door to a myriad of small business owners and experts, offering insights that are as diverse as they are enlightening. 

What's in it for you?

• Learn from firsthand accounts from those who've been where you stand – at the precipice of decision.
• Glean wisdom from top small business experts.
• Find out if your business idea has legs, or if it's back to the drawing board.
• Uncover why some businesses thrive and others don't make the cut.
• From raising start-up capital to the nitty-gritty of business planning, we've got you covered.

Starting a business might just be the most daunting venture of your life, but it's also potentially the most rewarding. Whether you're aiming for financial independence, seeking personal fulfillment, or both, The Unsure Entrepreneur Podcast is your first step towards making an informed decision.

Author, columnist, and coach Roger Pierce has worked with thousands of entrepreneurs and weathered 14 small businesses of his own over the past 30 years. Join him weekly to explore if entrepreneurship is your calling, or if the stability of employment is where your heart lies.

Subscribe now to enjoy what could be the turning point in your professional life. 

For more insights and to join our community, visit ⁠unsureentrepreneur.com⁠.