CanadianSME Small Business Podcast

Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand. In this episode, we explore how financial advisory is evolving with technology, personalization, and purpose to help Canadians achieve long-term financial security.Joining us is Daniele Farinaccia, Senior Vice-President, Distribution and Channel Management at Sun Life Canada, who shares insights on empowering advisors with cutting-edge tools, balancing innovation with personal relationships, and shaping the future of financial advice.Key Highlights:1. Advisor Evolution: The shift toward holistic and personalized financial advice.2. Advisor Tools: How Sun Life equips advisors to create healthier futures for clients.3. GenAI Innovation: Using AI to enhance advisor-client relationships.4. Growth & Opportunities: Sun Life’s commitment to supporting advisor success.5. Vision for Advice: The future of financial advisory in a dynamic market.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 Kripa Anand. In this episode, we explore the world of AI governance, focusing on the critical role of AI assurance and how companies can build trustworthy AI systems.Our guest today is Fion Lee-Madan, Chief Product Officer at Asenion. Fion brings extensive leadership experience and strategic vision in the AI governance field. Asenion, born from the merger of Fairly AI and Anch.AI, is an AI Trust, Risk, and Security Management (TRiSM) platform that ensures ethical AI deployment. Today, we discuss the importance of AI governance, regulatory frameworks, and Asenion’s vision for shaping the future of AI in business.Key Highlights:1. Asenion’s Story: The decision behind acquiring Anch.AI and the shift to a full-spectrum AI Trust solution.2. AI Assurance & Risk Management: How Asenion helps mitigate AI risks throughout the model lifecycle, aligned with global regulatory frameworks.3. ROI of AI Investments: Measuring the ROI of AI investments to ensure innovation and tangible returns in regulated sectors.4. The Human Factor in AI: How Fion’s personal experience shapes her approach to building ethical and trustworthy AI solutions.5. Future of AI Governance: Asenion’s vision for AI governance and leadership in the industry, aligned with regulatory standards.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 Kripa Anand. In this episode, we explore how Andrew Lockhead, CEO and Co-founder of Stay22, is disrupting the travel and entertainment industry with innovative monetization tools and a resilient startup journey.Andrew shares his insights on building strong company culture, navigating product-market fit, and leading through challenges such as the pandemic. From empowering creators to monetize content to shaping the future of event and travel technology, Stay22 is transforming the way industries adapt and thrive.Key Highlights:Building Culture: How Stay22’s leadership dynamic fosters collaboration and trust.Finding PMF: Lessons learned in achieving product-market fit in a fast-changing industry.Resilience in Crisis: How Stay22 adapted after losing 90% of revenue during COVID.Innovative Tools: How Stay22 turns maps, links, and videos into revenue streams.Future Vision: The roadmap for disrupting travel and event tech with interactive solutions.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 Kripa Anand. In this special AI for SMBs series, we explore how Artificial Intelligence is transforming the way Canadian small and medium-sized businesses operate, innovate, and grow.Joining us today is Howard Chang, Founder and Chair of The Turn Lab Inc. and CEO of Just Meeting Rooms. With expertise in marketing innovation, digital transformation, and AI adoption, Howard shares insights on building purpose-driven businesses, navigating uncertainty, and leading with resilience.Key Highlights:SME Challenges: Howard outlines the biggest threats facing SMEs in the AI era and how leaders can plan for sustainable growth.Falling in Love with the Problem: Why focusing on problems—not solutions—fuels real innovation and relevance.Entrepreneurial Energy: The importance of fostering creativity and avoiding leadership mistakes that stifle team potential.AI in Marketing & Resilience: How AI is reshaping digital commerce and the lessons learned from personal and professional setbacks.Global Expansion & Purpose: The B Corp journey and launching Just Meeting Rooms in the UK with a focus on profit with purpose.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 Kripa Anand. Today, we dive into the role of technology transformation in scaling businesses, focusing on how growth-driven companies can move from chaos to clarity through automation, AI, and scalable systems.Andrew Andreoli from Trajectory Group and Heather Gordon from Initus Technologies join us to explore the signs businesses should upgrade from legacy tools, the key to integrating CRM and ERP systems, and the future of enterprise systems for Canadian businesses.Key Highlights:1. Legacy System Upgrades: When and why mid-market companies need to move beyond legacy tools.2. The System Design Trap: How businesses can avoid the common traps when scaling with platforms like Salesforce and NetSuite.3. Unified Operating Models: Building a seamless Go-To-Market-to-Finance system for speed and clarity.4. AI and Automation: How Initus powers optimization and what lessons businesses can apply in their own tech transformations.5. Future of Enterprise Systems: Trajectory’s role in helping businesses scale effectively and the future of enterprise systems in Canada.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 Kripa Anand. In this episode, we dive into the bold world of Public Relations and explore how businesses can break through the noise to earn media-dominating coverage in today’s crowded news cycle.Our guest is Patrick McCaully, a former broadcast journalist and the founder of Pointman News Creation, an award-winning PR agency ranked internationally for its fearless and inventive approach. With 25 years of experience, Patrick has engineered some of the most talked-about stories in Canadian media and built a reputation for never settling for “vanilla PR.”Key Highlights:1. Trojan Horse Approach: Why Canadian SMEs can still win coverage with bold, idea-driven PR.2. The Best Idea Wins: How turning a plain pitch into a Globe and Mail front page proves creativity beats conformity.3. Earned Media & AI Search: Why media credibility is becoming more valuable than ads or SEO in the age of AI.4. Choosing the Right PR Partner: The one key question entrepreneurs must ask before hiring an agency.5. Pointman’s Legacy & Future of PR: Lessons from generating 3,000 media hits from just 15 pitches.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 Darian Kovacs. In this episode, we explore the future of workforce development and how Canadian SMEs are central to talent growth, innovation, and economic resilience.Our guest is Mark Beckles, CEO of Palette Skills and Upskill Canada, a leader with over 25 years of experience driving transformative initiatives in financial services, non-profits, and workforce development. Mark has led programs like RBC Future Launch and RBC Upskill, supports inclusive prosperity through advisory roles, and is recognized as one of Canada’s most influential Black Canadians.Key Highlights:1. Vision for Workforce Development: Mark shares his 3–5 year plan for Palette Skills and Upskill Canada, focusing on scaling SME impact and talent growth.2. Upskilling SMEs: How tailored training programs help small and medium businesses unlock opportunities and deliver measurable results.3. Balancing Policy & Practice: Insights on aligning federal funder expectations with the everyday realities of SMEs.4. Inclusivity in Skills Development: Supporting diverse communities, including Indigenous businesses, newcomers, and rural SMEs, through targeted programs.5. Actionable Steps for Business Owners: Concrete ways to access Upskill Canada’s resources and future-proof your workforce in the era of AI and digital 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 Kripa Anand. In this episode, we explore the world of conversational AI and how Canadian businesses can leverage AI-driven solutions to enhance customer engagement and sales automation.Our guest today is Russell Ward, Co-Founder and CEO at Massively.ai. Russell’s journey spans leading marketing for brands like Teletoon, Cartoon Network, and Adult Swim, to pioneering AI-driven research with CRIS Research. At Massively, he has built MAT by Massively, a conversational marketing SaaS platform that empowers businesses to connect with customers using AI chat tools. Today, we discuss the evolution of Massively, practical AI adoption for small businesses, and the future of customer engagement in a digital-first world.Key Highlights:1. From Storytelling to AI Chatbots: How Massively transitioned from a storytelling platform to an AI-powered conversational marketing SaaS.2. AI for Small Business: How AI chat tools help small businesses boost engagement, generate leads, and automate sales easily.3. Adopting AI Tools: Simple steps for small business owners to build and manage AI chatbots using the self-serve MAT platform.4. Future of Customer Engagement: The role of conversational solutions in driving meaningful connections and experiences.5. DM Canvas & Vision Ahead: Massively’s long-term vision, lessons from DM Canvas, and the future of conversational marketing.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 data can help Canadian businesses better understand consumer behavior and capitalize on unique opportunities during major events.Joining us is Lacy Lauks, Head of Visa Consulting & Analytics (VCA) in Canada, who leads a team delivering impactful insights across the payment ecosystem. Lacy shares how VCA data sheds light on spending patterns and what it means for small businesses.Key Highlights:1. Montreal Race Weekend Impact: Lacy explains how major events drive local spending and benefit small businesses.2. International Visitors & Buy Local: Insights into visitor spending trends and the boost for Canadian SMEs.3. Hottest Spending Categories: Which sectors see the biggest spikes and how businesses can prepare.4. Leveraging Insights: How small businesses can use data-driven strategies without a dedicated analytics team.5. Future Outlook: Lacy shares Visa’s perspective on evolving payment trends and AI’s role in the 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 Kripa Anand. Today, we’re exploring the strategies and insights that empower entrepreneurs to achieve global ambitions. We’ll focus on the unique advantages of establishing a business in Canada, the vital role of its support ecosystem, and how international entrepreneurs can seamlessly integrate into the Canadian market.Joining us today is Slava Apel, CEO of Canada Business Consulting, a cross-border advisory firm helping businesses expand into the Canadian market. Slava’s expertise guides companies through commercial and immigration readiness. Today, we'll discuss how to thrive in Canada by utilizing available support, the advantages of opening a business in Canada, and the role of mentors, government support, and professionals in fundraising.Key Highlights:1. How to Thrive in Canada by Utilizing Available Support: Slava outlines the key elements of Canada's support ecosystem—including mentors, government support, and professionals—that help businesses thrive, especially for those expanding into Canada.2. Why There is an Advantage in Opening a Business in Canada Instead of Employment: Slava explains why opening a business in Canada presents distinct advantages for immigrant entrepreneurs, compared to seeking employment.3. The Role in Fundraising of Incubators, VCs, and Angels: The distinct roles of incubators, VCs, and Angel Investors in the Canadian fundraising landscape, and how they collectively contribute to the success of startups.4. The Role of a Mentor in High Potential Growth Businesses: The importance of mentorship in guiding high-potential growth businesses, helping them navigate challenges, identify opportunities, and accelerate development.5. Slava's Unique Career and Global Expertise: How Slava’s diverse global experiences, from fishing to martial arts training, shape his business philosophy for helping companies with global expansion.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 Kripa Anand. In this episode, we explore how Canadian businesses can unlock the full potential of their data through analytics, AI, and smart data strategies.Joining us is Shanawaz Janmohamed, Analytics Director at Function Group Analytics, who brings extensive experience helping organizations centralize data, build analytics maturity, and harness AI/ML for smarter decision-making. Shanawaz shares how businesses can turn raw data into actionable insights and build scalable ecosystems for the future.Key Highlights:1. Data Centralization: Why a single source of truth is critical for accuracy and efficiency.2. Analytics Maturity: Key stages of growth and pitfalls SMEs should avoid.3. Advanced Analytics & AI: How AI/ML transform raw data into smarter, faster decisions.4. Self-Serve Analytics: The role of automated reporting and visualization in empowering teams.5. Future of Analytics: Building secure, scalable ecosystems to stay ahead of AI-driven trends.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 businesses can harness data, cloud, and AI to unlock growth, improve efficiency, and transform insights into strategic action.Joining us is Omar Kazi, Senior AI and Enterprise Solution Architect at MIR Digital Solutions, who brings over 25 years of experience in enterprise technology and AI. Omar shares how mid-sized businesses are adopting cloud and AI, the role of analytics in differentiation, and his vision for the future of business technology.Key Highlights:1. AI Adoption for SMEs: Practical cloud AI use cases boosting growth and efficiency.2. Generative AI in Action: How tools like ChatGPT and CoPilot enhance research and creativity.3. Analytics for Differentiation: Turning data into predictive insights with Excel and Power BI.4. The Role of Partners: Why a single AI services partner ensures clarity, growth, and ROI.5. Future Outlook: Omar’s vision for technology and AI in shaping competitive advantage.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 technology, AI, and data are reshaping the music industry, giving independent artists new tools to build sustainable careers.Joining us is Geoffry Cubitt, CEO of StrmMusic North America, a digital innovation leader with decades of experience in global transformation. Geoffry shares how StrmMusic’s music career accelerator empowers artists with AI-driven insights, flexible funding, and control over their creative journey.Key Highlights:1. From Digital to Music: Geoffry’s journey from digital transformation to music disruption.2. Music Career Accelerator: How StrmMusic differs from labels by keeping artists in control.3. Career Assessment Ladder: AI-powered guidance helping artists grow sustainable careers.4. Power of Data & AI: Using a dataset of 9M artists and 170M tracks to fuel artist decisions.5. Global Expansion: StrmMusic’s vision for growth and upcoming NYC showcase partnerships.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 crucial role of digital governance and standards in shaping Canada’s online future, and why SMEs must embrace them to stay competitive.Joining us is Keith Jansa, CEO of the Digital Governance Council, who shares how standards like AI ethics and cybersecurity empower businesses, why validation builds trust, and how SMEs can influence Canada’s digital policy landscape.Key Highlights:1. Digital Standards for SMEs: How standards like AI Ethics and Cybersecurity build trust.2. Independent Validation: Why third-party verification gives SMEs a competitive edge.3. Grassroots Leadership: How SMEs shape Canada’s cybersecurity and digital standards.4. Executive Forum Impact: A platform helping SMEs influence Canada’s digital priorities.5. Future of Digital Governance: Upcoming standards for responsible, secure 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 Kripa Anand. In this episode, we explore how technology is reshaping immigration, making the process more transparent and scalable for Canadian businesses, schools, and newcomers.Joining us are Jonathan Sherman, Head of Sales and Partnerships at BorderPass, and Michael Pietrocarlo, Head of Marketing at BorderPass. Together, they share how BorderPass, an AI-powered legal tech platform, is powering global mobility and helping Canada connect with vital global talent.Key Highlights:1. Immigration as a Growth Lever: Jonathan explains how SMEs can unlock growth by hiring internationally and shifting mindsets.2. Complex Immigration System: Michael discusses why SMEs need strong legal infrastructure beyond quick fixes.3. Scalable Solutions for Employers: Jonathan shares how BorderPass automated compliance for 1,500+ foreign workers.4. Supporting Students & Newcomers: Michael highlights BorderPass’s school partnerships and affordable, lawyer-backed tools.5. Future of Global Mobility: Jonathan and Michael outline their vision to build trusted pathways for Canada’s 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 Kripa Anand. In this episode, we explore the evolving role of human resources and how research-backed strategies can transform workplaces and drive stronger business outcomes.Joining us is Maureen Cahill, Senior Managing Partner, Executive Services at McLean & Company. With 30 years of HR leadership experience across global organizations, Maureen shares her insights on talent management, leadership, and the future of HR.Key Highlights:1. Research-Backed HR Strategy: Maureen explains how HR leaders can use research and strategy to tackle today’s toughest challenges.2. Workforce Trends: She discusses key trends shaping employee experience and workforce transformation.3. McLean & Company’s Approach: How their team of former HR executives combines expertise with research to deliver value.4. AI & Uncertainty: Maureen highlights how AI and data help HR leaders embrace change and drive growth.5. Future Vision: Insights from the new CHRO Playbook and McLean & Company’s ongoing mission to support resilient workplaces.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 a debt-free financial model reshaping how Canadians can access home equity without monthly payments or added debt.Joining us is Shael Weinreb, Founder and CEO of The Home Equity Partners, who shares his mission to bring the Home Equity Sharing Agreement (HESA) to Canada, offering a proven alternative that has supported U.S. homeowners for over 20 years.Key Highlights:1. Personal Mission: Why Shael founded The Home Equity Partners and the problem HESA solves.2. Market Potential: How U.S. success shows growth opportunities for Canadian homeowners.3. How It Works: A closer look at how HESA provides equity access without debt or payments.4. Win-Win Model: The benefits for both homeowners and investors in real estate-secured returns.5. Entrepreneurial Vision: Shael’s advice for entrepreneurs and his vision for the future of home equity in Canada.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 AI-driven financial tools are helping students build better habits through a simple, set-it-and-forget-it approach to money management.Joining us is Lewie Moodley, CEO & Co-Founder of Pocket Financial, a platform launched in 2025 to help students save more, spend smarter, and reduce the stress of budgeting. He shares insights on building a student-first solution and his vision for the future of financial wellness in Canada.Key Highlights:1. The Student Finance Problem: Why a set-it-and-forget-it approach eases financial stress.2. AI & Budgeting: How Pocket Financial eliminates the mental load of money management.3. Frictionless Design: Building a product that meets students where they are.4. Mission & Impact: Lessons from entrepreneurship and supporting diverse student success.5. Future Vision: Launching in Alberta schools and expanding financial wellness nationwide.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 Kripa Anand. In this episode, we explore the essential technologies driving steady growth for small and medium-sized businesses, from modern websites to automation and AI.Joining us are Jacob Hodara, President, and Alex Rakhmilevitch, Marketing Manager at IDL Web, who share insights on website maintenance, CRM, automation, digital marketing, and security strategies that help Canadian SMEs stay competitive.Key Highlights:1. Modern Websites: Why updated websites and lead funnels are critical for growth.2. Maintenance Matters: How regular updates prevent hacks and ensure long-term performance.3. CRM & Automation: Why shifting from paper to automation saves time and drives smarter engagement.4. Strategic IT Investment: How to prioritize automation and find the right consultants.5. Security & Marketing Impact: Why robust web security and integrated digital marketing boost business outcomes.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 Kripa Anand. In this episode, we explore how enterprise sales technology is transforming the quoting process, enabling businesses to move from manual spreadsheets to intelligent, automated revenue engines.Joining us is Daniel Kube, CEO of ServicePath, a Canadian SaaS leader recognized in Gartner’s Magic Quadrant for CPQ Application Suites. Daniel shares how servicePath is redefining Configure, Price, Quote (CPQ) and revenue lifecycle management for global technology providers.Key Highlights:1. AI in Sales Operations: Daniel explains how AI-native solutions accelerate sales and reduce errors.2. Eliminating Revenue Leakage: Insights on how servicePath CPQ+ optimizes pricing and profitability.3. Future of Sales Tech: What Gartner recognition means and where enterprise sales is headed.4. Global Expansion: How servicePath grew from MSP-specific challenges to global enterprise solutions.5. Canadian Leadership: Daniel shares the advantages of scaling a tech company from Canada to the world.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.