CanadianSME Small Business Podcast

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. In this episode, we explore gender equity in Canada’s food and hospitality sector and how national brands can use their influence to champion women entrepreneurs.Our guest is Melanie Fatouros Richardson, Vice President of Communications and Government Relations at Skip. Since 2019, she has helped transform the organization from a Prairie startup into a national platform while advocating for mentorship, representation, and inclusive growth.Key HighlightsWXN Food Industry Award: What the award represents for women in the sector and the shared strengths seen among this year’s honourees.Championing Women Leaders: How Skip is supporting women led businesses through programs, partnerships, and inclusion driven initiatives.Current Industry Landscape: The biggest challenges and opportunities for women scaling food and hospitality businesses today.Collaborative Leadership: How leading an all women team shapes Skip’s culture and informs Melanie’s commitment to empowering women.Skip’s Future Vision: How Skip’s ESG commitments and WXN partnership support a more inclusive and resilient Canadian economy. Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by SK Uddin. In this episode, we explore how strong advocacy, workforce development, and industry wide collaboration are shaping the future of Canada’s building materials sector.Our guest is Liz Kovach, President of Supply Build Canada, a national association representing over fourteen hundred businesses. Through the pillars of attract, connect, educate, and advocate, Liz is leading efforts to strengthen the industry, address talent shortages, and protect Canadian businesses from trade pressures.Key HighlightsNavigating U.S. Tariffs: How ongoing advocacy in Washington helps Canadian suppliers manage disruptions and protect competitiveness.Solving the Talent Crisis: How the Attract and Educate pillars support members with career fairs, training, job boards, and accredited courses.Power of Membership: The real outcomes members gain, from government backed training to tax incentives that improve profitability.2026 Showcase Impact: Why the upcoming national showcase is a catalyst for planning, product innovation, and strategic partnerships.Future Vision for the Industry: How programs like BuildHER, webinars, insights nights, and the podcast strengthen community and drive innovation. Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by SK Uddin. In this episode, we explore the evolving world of venture capital and how investing in overlooked founders can unlock powerful innovation and economic opportunity.Our guest is Mana Hosseini, Co founder and Managing Partner at Apex Innovative Investments Ventures, a thirty five million dollar VC fund backing early stage AI, FinTech, and Cleantech startups. Mana shares her unconventional path into VC, her global vision, and practical insights for founders aiming to become VC ready.Key HighlightsA Nontraditional Path: How Mana shifted from law to VC and why Apex backs founders who fall outside the classic mold.Apex’s Investment Strategy: What unifies the AI, FinTech, and Cleantech startups they support and how Apex balances traditional and long term bets.Fund 2 and Global Growth: How the new thirty million dollar fund is structured and why expansion to Australia is a timely strategic move.Becoming VC Ready: Common misconceptions about fundraising and the traits that signal a team is prepared for venture capital.Thesis and Future Vision: What Upguys Health reveals about Apex’s investment philosophy and Mana’s long term mission for the firm. Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. In this episode, we explore how purpose, sustainability, and strategy come together to help companies deliver good business done better.Our guest is Blair French, Chief Growth Officer at LMNO, a B Corp-certified creative and marketing consultancy. With over fifteen years in branding and strategy, Blair shares how purpose-aligned decision-making strengthens impact, performance, and long-term value.Key HighlightsGood Growth Priorities: Blair explains how SMBs should invest for resilience and why brand, people, and sustainability fuel long term value. A Personal Catalyst: How climate impact close to home shaped Blair’s mission to support people and the planet through business. Sustainability for Advantage: Why purpose and profit coexist and how sustainability boosts competitiveness and operations. The LMNO Framework: How strategy, creativity, and impact consulting help clients meet rising expectations and measure results. The B Corp Standard: What achieving B Corp and Net Zero status means for LMNO’s leadership and long-term vision.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. In this episode, we explore how strategic planning, clarity of vision, and organizational alignment help leaders turn ambitious goals into real progress.Our guest is Chris Ward, MBA, CMC, President of Strategic Directions. With experience across retail, manufacturing, consulting, and over 250 corporate retreats facilitated, Chris shares practical insights on building accountability, improving execution, and developing strategic thinkers at every level.Key HighlightsWhy Strategic Planning Matters: Chris explains how strategy brings clarity, focus, and long term direction for small and mid sized businesses. Why Plans Fail: Insights on the common barriers and how alignment across teams keeps strategy alive beyond the retreat. Accountability in Action: How leaders can make planning engaging and build a culture where commitments turn into measurable outcomes. Strategic Thinkers Everywhere: Why developing strategic thinking across the organization strengthens adaptability and long term performance. Mastering Strategy: Chris shares the purpose behind his Mastering Strategy program and key advice for thinking and acting strategically.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. In this episode, we explore how Canadian businesses can fuel innovation and extend their runway through smart R&D tax strategies and non-dilutive funding.We’re joined by Keith Bailey, CFO at Boast.AI, a leader in helping organizations navigate SR&ED, CDAE, and U.S. R&D programs through AI-driven automation and in-house technical expertise. Keith shares how businesses can reduce complexity, minimize audit risk, and unlock innovation capital more efficiently.Key Highlights:Non-Dilutive Capital: How SR&ED extends innovation runway and strengthens investor readiness. Real-Time Documentation: How structuring teams and capturing technical work early supports audit-proof claims. SR&ED Enhancements: What’s changing and why DIY filing increases risk and missed eligibility. Economic Advantage: How SR&ED and CDAE incentives help companies stay innovative during uncertainty. Why Boast AI: What sets Boast apart and why enterprises choose them as a long-term strategic partner.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. In this episode, we explore how experiential retail ecosystems are reshaping community engagement and creating new growth opportunities for Canadian small businesses.Our guest is Matt Rubinoff, Founder of STACKT and STACKTx, the award-winning Toronto marketplace built from shipping containers and the community driven platform helping small businesses access space, education, and opportunity at no cost.Key HighlightsSTACKT’s Origin Story: How Matt blended community and commerce to create an interactive public space that attracts major brands. STACKTx and Small Business Growth: The free perks, education, and pop-up storefronts are helping entrepreneurs scale with community support. Social Conference Impact: Why experiential, in-person engagement drives stronger relationships and growth than virtual alternatives. Future Expansion Vision: How STACKT and STACKTx plan to grow across Canada with more mentorship, retail access, and community programming. Leadership and Innovation: The key lessons behind building STACKT and how grants and mentorship strengthen Canada’s small business ecosystem.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. This episode is part of Tech Forward, where we explore the technologies and global forces shaping innovation, efficiency, and growth for Canadian businesses.Today, we’re diving into the fast-evolving world of geopolitics and satellite communications with Abishur Prakash, founder of The Geopolitical Business, Inc. Known as “Mr. Geopolitics,” Abishur advises global executives and policymakers and is the author of five influential books, including The World Is Vertical.Key Highlights:Business Disruption: Abishur explains how geopolitics is reshaping global markets and what Canadian SMEs must analyze to stay resilient. US-China Dynamics: He shares how power shifts, America First policies, and supply chain changes impact Canadian competitiveness. Strategic Resilience: Abishur outlines three practical strategies for SMEs to diversify markets, secure tech, and strengthen long-term stability. AI in Geoeconomics: He breaks down how AI is influencing global power and the risks and opportunities for Canadian tech companies. Future Foresight: Abishur discusses why geopolitical forecasting is essential and how The Geopolitical Business supports SME planning.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. In this episode, we explore how digital marketing and physical design intersect to create powerful brand experiences through interactive display technology.Joining us is Shixiu Gao, Digital Marketing and E-Commerce Specialist at Armodilo Display Solutions, a Canadian leader known for its high-quality tablet terminals and custom interactive display stands. Shixiu shares how Armodilo connects digital strategy with physical touchpoints to elevate customer engagement and business growth.Key Highlights:Innovative Display Solutions: How Armodilo’s Canadian-made tablet enclosures and kiosks enhance brand presence and user experience. Customer Experience Impact: Why interactive displays improve check-ins, product discovery, and engagement across industries. Data-Driven Marketing for SMBs: How small businesses can use kiosks, QR codes, and low-cost analytics tools to boost sales. Product Innovation with REVI: How the new wall-mounted tablet housing elevates smart automation and modern environments. Creativity Meets Technology: How combining design, hardware, and analytics drives Armodilo’s growth strategy.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. In this episode, we explore how digital payments and flexible financing solutions help Canadians navigate financial stress while supporting merchants in a competitive online marketplace.Joining us is Andrea Lown, Senior Lead Product Manager for PayPal Canada, who oversees the expansion of PayPal’s trusted products, including PayPal Pay in 4. With nearly 10 million active account holders in Canada, PayPal continues to prioritize secure, flexible, and globally trusted payment solutions for both consumers and businesses.Key Highlights:Holiday Spending Insights: What PayPal’s Festive Spending Survey reveals about financial stress and consumer priorities. The Importance of Pay in 4: How interest-free, no-fee installments support responsible budgeting during the holidays. How Pay in 4 Works: The role of purchase protection and 24/7 fraud monitoring in building consumer confidence. Value for Merchants: How flexible payment options help small businesses boost sales and attract new customers. Future of Digital Payments: PayPal’s long-term vision for secure, trusted financial solutions that support Canadian businesses.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. In this episode, we explore how tech startups and scale-ups are redefining employee benefits to stay competitive, control costs, and support a modern, wellness-driven workforce.Joining us is Chris Gory, Founder and President of Orchard Benefits, a consultancy dedicated to helping Canada’s most innovative tech companies design data-driven, sustainable benefits plans. With experience advising over 110 tech startups, Chris brings deep expertise in benchmarking, insurance strategy, and emerging HR technologies.Key Highlights:Modern Benefits for Tech Talent: How startups are shifting toward flexible, wellness-focused plans. Benchmarking for Smarter Decisions: How data comparisons prevent costly over-investment in benefit plans. The Orchard Advantage: How tech-centric advisory and chatbots elevate employee and HR experiences. Emerging Trends in Benefits: The rise of mental health tools, virtual care, and lifestyle spending accounts. Leadership & Future Vision: Chris’s lessons from the tech ecosystem and his vision for data-driven benefits.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. In this episode, we explore the world of mergers and acquisitions and why understanding the journey to an exit is essential for every entrepreneur.Our guest is Ugo Dionne, President of M&A CLUB INC. A seasoned entrepreneur who has built and sold multiple companies, Ugo now leads Canada’s largest network of M&A professionals and champions strong advisory support, strategic preparation, and community engagement.Key HighlightsStartup vs Acquisition: How entrepreneurs can choose between building from scratch or pursuing ownership through acquisition. Preparing for the Exit: Why owners must start planning three to five years ahead to maximize value and protect their legacy. The M&A Club Academy: How the Academy equips entrepreneurs and professionals with a complete 360 degree understanding of deals. Surrounding Yourself with Expertise: Why the right advisors and mentors are non negotiable for navigating complex transactions. The Power of Networking: How strategic relationships and community involvement create real opportunities and long term value.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari, where we explore strategic insights and innovative approaches empowering D2C brands to scale profitably. Today, we’re diving into the high-impact world of performance marketing and systems-driven growth.Our guest is Thomas Robinson, VP of Growth at Breath Death and Managing Partner at Direct To Growth Co., a growth leader known for blending analytics, storytelling, and platform expertise across Amazon and Shopify.Key Highlights:Amazon Profitability: Thomas shares key principles for structuring Amazon Ad accounts to eliminate wasted spend and maximize efficiency. Incrementality Mindset: He explains how incrementality reshapes strategy and cuts through inflated attribution models. Capital-Based Media Buying: Thomas breaks down how to treat ad spend like investment capital across PPC, Paid Social, and CTV. Category Disruption: He reveals how Breath Death used influencer content and culture to disrupt a twenty billion dollar category. Systems Thinking for Growth: Thomas discusses the future of Direct To Growth Co. and why systems thinking is every founder’s superpower.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by SK, and welcome to AI for SMBs—a series dedicated to exploring how artificial intelligence is reshaping productivity, operations, and growth for small businesses across Canada.In this episode, we’re joined by Fatima Abdillahi, Founder of Agentflow, an AI automation platform built in Toronto to help property managers and SMBs streamline operations, eliminate manual workflows, and scale with efficiency. Fatima brings over a decade of experience in software engineering and AI program leadership, including her work at The Canadian Press.Key Highlights:Founder Insight: Fatima shares how a property manager’s overwhelming manual workflows sparked the creation of Agentflow. AI for Operations: She explains how automation reduces costs, saves time, and frees teams to focus on client relationships. Inclusive Innovation: Fatima discusses representation, mentorship, and building human-centric AI accessible to diverse founders. Agentflow Advantage: She breaks down what makes their automation tech unique and lessons learned scaling an AI startup. Future Vision: Fatima reveals her long-term plans for a franchise-style model and AI-powered analytics to transform SMB workflows.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari, where we explore strategic insights and innovative solutions empowering businesses to grow with clarity and confidence. Today, we’re stepping into the world of product marketing and cybersecurity, focusing on how human-centric storytelling helps businesses build trust in a threat-filled digital landscape.Our guest is Shruti Verma, Product Marketing Manager and GTM Lead at NULLZEC, the cybersecurity startup behind IsolateX, an AI-powered zero-trust browser designed to protect businesses from human-error cyberattacks. Shruti is also the host of Behind the Brief and a passionate storyteller committed to making complex tech simple and actionable.Key Highlights:Simplifying Cybersecurity: Shruti explains how shifting messaging from threats to trust reshaped Nullzec’s product positioning. PMM in Startup Growth: She breaks down how product marketing drives a startup’s GTM strategy even before a full marketing team exists. AI CISO in Your Browser: She discusses how IsolateX prevents human-error attacks while keeping workflows simple and seamless. Trust and Adoption: Shruti shares insights from leading the beta launch and engaging early adopters through story-driven communication. Future of PMM + AI: She outlines how AI is evolving the Product Marketing role and Nullzec’s long-term vision for business security.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. In this episode, we unpack how AI is reshaping the hiring landscape and why businesses must rethink how they identify qualified talent in an AI-driven job market.We are joined by Nitish Kasturia, Founder and CEO of EvoHire, a second-time founder and former Head of Engineering at a venture-backed GenAI startup. EvoHire is redefining recruitment with AI agents that run first-round technical assessments while detecting cheating and enhancing fairness in hiring.Key Highlights:AI Arms Race in Hiring: Nitish shares how AI-generated resumes overwhelm teams and why filtering qualified talent has become more complex. Ethical AI in HR: He explains how companies can use AI to reduce false negatives and support fair, human-centered hiring decisions. Future-Ready Assessments: Nitish discusses how assessments now validate real skills and promote AI as a co-pilot for candidates. The EvoHire Advantage: He highlights how multilingual interviews improve global reach and strengthen both candidate and employer experiences. Leadership & Future Vision: Nitish outlines the leadership mindset needed to run a GenAI startup and his vision for AI’s role in transforming hiring.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. In this episode, we explore how bold ideas, experiential marketing, and strategic partnerships help businesses stand out and create memorable audience experiences.Our guest is Victoria Mahoney, Head of Marketing and Partnerships at Harmony Marketing. Recently named one of North America’s Top 40 Under 40 Event Professionals, Victoria brings deep expertise in sponsorship, PR, government relations, and experiential campaigns that make a real impact.Key HighlightsExperiential Marketing’s Real Value: How SMBs can use experiential campaigns and sponsorships to unlock ROI beyond traditional advertising. The Rubber Duck Effect: What the giant rubber duck teaches us about bold ideas, risk management, and cutting through skepticism. The New PR Mindset: How PR has evolved and how businesses can communicate authentically in a fragmented media world. Boutique Advantage: How Harmony Marketing delivers smarter, high touch solutions and helps clients secure funding through grants and government relations. Awards and Future Vision: What Top 40 Under 40 means for Victoria’s journey and what audiences can expect from Sugar Shack TO’s return.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by SK. In this episode, we explore how psychological safety and human-first leadership are shaping the next generation of high-performing teams.We’re joined by Nogol Madani, Founder and President of Glee Factor, an engineer-turned-workplace expert trusted by organizations like Google, SAP, and Rio Tinto. Her work centers on psychological safety as the foundation for collaboration, innovation, and well-being in today’s rapidly evolving workplace.Key Highlights:Nogol’s Journey: She shares how her engineering roots and lived experiences inspired her mission to build inclusive, psychologically safe cultures. Psychological Safety Defined: Nogol explains how it fuels trust, innovation, and high performance across teams. The Human Edge: She discusses why empathy and communication will define the future of work in the age of AI. Human-First Leadership: Nogol outlines how Glee Factor helps organizations adopt people-centered leadership systems. Lead Forward Vision: She reveals how the program equips leaders to drive resilience, impact, and long-term transformation.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by SK. In this episode, we explore how small and medium-sized businesses can move beyond AI hype and build practical, measurable strategies that drive real value.Joining us is Edward Johnson, AI Strategy Consultant at PRAKTIKAI and Founder of Ikinique Ltd., known for bridging business strategy with deep technical insight across fintech, healthcare, and capital markets. Edward helps organizations design responsible data and AI roadmaps while building strong, human centered tech cultures.Key Highlights:Demystifying AI for SMEs: How simple, low cost automations can deliver immediate operational wins. Blockchain Beyond Crypto: Where blockchain will drive value in retail, healthcare, and logistics. Tech Culture & Leadership: Lessons on building innovative, resilient teams in fast changing environments. TariffEdge & Compliance Tools: How new solutions simplify tariffs and support Bill 149 and 190 readiness. Future of Human Centered Tech: Edward’s global perspective on building ethical, scalable tech ecosystems.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. In this AI for SMBs series, we explore how Artificial Intelligence is reshaping productivity, decision-making, and growth for Canadian small businesses.Today’s episode features Chris McLellan, Founder of Friends Electric and creator of the nonprofit Ask AI. With over 15 years of experience launching breakthrough technologies globally, Chris specializes in building practical, human-AI powered marketing systems for SMEs.Key Highlights:Taxi Wars & Market Disruption: Chris shares lessons from London’s taxi app battles and how they inform today’s AI-driven regulatory and market shifts. AI Adoption for SMBs: He explains how small businesses can begin using AI for marketing, growth, and productivity through human-AI collaboration. Data Governance & Standards: Chris breaks down the importance of the ISO-approved Data Collaboration Framework for secure, ethical data innovation in Canada. AI-Enabled Content Engine: He discusses his model for scaling content and marketing programs with AI while staying rooted in strategy and adaptability.Special Thanks to Our Partners:RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.htmlUPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWAGoogle: https://www.google.ca/A1 Global College: https://a1globalcollege.ca/ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspxFor more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age!Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.