The Business Leadership Podcast

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast with Edwin, renowned digital marketing expert Neil Patel shares insights on how businesses can thrive in an era where attention is divided across multiple online platforms. Recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver, the episode delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by new technologies like AI and the importance of being found in various search engines. Neil discusses the exponential growth in searches across platforms like Google, Instagram, Snapchat, and even the Apple App Store, emphasizing the need for businesses to adapt their strategies to remain visible and relevant. Note: This is a partial interview due to technical issues.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:11 Controversy and Branding in Qatar00:40 Travel Preferences and Conference Attendance01:39 Introduction to Neil Patel02:49 Challenges in Digital Marketing

Recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast hosted by Edwin Frondozo features Paul Newton, creative producer of the Future Narrator miniseries, interviewing Parag Parekh, the Chief Digital Officer at IKEA Retail. Parag discusses IKEA's ambitious and human-centered digital transformation journey. He outlines the company’s three-tier transformation process: shifting from physical to omni retailing, moving from large store formats to smaller, city-center locations, and expanding services to meet broader customer needs like second-hand furniture and financial services, while also preparing for future AI advancements. Parag shares insights from his extensive 20 years of global experience and emphasizes the importance of curiosity, responsibility, and adaptability in leadership. The conversation also touches on the impact of COVID-19, the significance of sustainability, and the critical role of corporate responsibility in the digital age.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:36 Meet Parag Parekh: IKEA's Chief Digital Officer02:12 IKEA's Digital Transformation Journey06:37 Personal Insights and Leadership Journey14:11 Future of Retail and Digital Innovation19:37 Final Thoughts and Advice for Business Leaders20:43 Conclusion and Farewell

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, Edwin Frondozo talks with Fred Zdan, co-founder of Ruby Loans, about revolutionizing the small business lending process with AI. Fred discusses the inefficiencies of the current lending system and how Ruby Loans aims to provide a borrower-driven digital experience. With over 30 years in the financial services industry, Fred shares insights on transforming a paper-heavy, labor-intensive system into a streamlined and customer-friendly process. He also touches on the future impact of open banking and the importance of making loan access easier for small business owners. Recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:52 Meet Fred Zdan and Ruby Loans01:15 Challenges in Small Business Lending03:23 Fred Zdan's Background and Vision04:35 The Concept of Open Banking06:03 How Ruby Loans is Revolutionizing Lending12:05 The Future of Small Business Lending17:38 Advice for Startups and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, guest host Paul Newton interviews Lu Zhang, founder and managing partner of Fusion Fund. Lu shares her journey from an immigrant and tech entrepreneur to a venture capitalist supporting deep tech founders. She emphasizes the critical role of diversity and understanding in driving innovation and the importance of being adaptable in uncertain times. Additionally, Lu discusses the current and future landscape of AI-powered healthcare and offers valuable advice for early-stage founders navigating today's market.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:40 Meet Lu Zhang: Investor and Entrepreneur01:53 Lu Zhang's Experience at Web Summit Vancouver03:18 Fusion Fund's Mission and Achievements04:59 Challenges and Solutions in Early Stage Investment07:34 Lu Zhang's Unique Perspective on Diversity and Innovation13:27 The Future of Tech and AI Innovation18:02 Advice for Founders and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast with Edwin Frondozo, recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, host Paul Newton speaks with Carina Kom, co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Simply Suite Games. Carina discusses the mission of Simply Suite Games to create inclusive and emotionally resonant games that focus on positive language development and non-exploitative monetization. She also highlights the challenges faced by women in the gaming industry and the importance of creating psychologically safe and equitable working environments. The conversation touches on the significance of community support, resilience, and collaborative efforts in fostering innovation and inclusivity in the gaming sector.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:40 Meet Carina Kom: Championing Inclusive Game Design02:33 Challenges in the Gaming Industry04:47 Unique Perspectives and Leadership in Game Development07:16 Creating Joyful and Meaningful Gaming Experiences11:50 The Future of Inclusive Game Design18:51 Final Thoughts and Advice for Founders

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, host Edwin Frondozo is joined by Casey Lau, co-host of Web Summit. Casey shares his journey from co-hosting in Hong Kong to expanding Web Summit's reach to various global locations including Portugal, Qatar, Brazil, and now Vancouver. He discusses the challenges and opportunities of bringing Web Summit to new cities, the potential for economic and ecosystem development, and the importance of startups looking globally. Highlighting Vancouver's vibrant tech and startup scene, Casey emphasizes the city's rise on the global stage and its potential impact on fostering innovation and growth.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:36 Meet Casey Lau: The Connector of Global Tech01:33 Casey's Journey with Web Summit03:09 Vancouver's Growing Tech Ecosystem04:48 The Global Impact of Vancouver's Tech Scene07:01 Challenges and Opportunities for Canadian Tech09:27 The Unique Appeal of Vancouver11:39 Reflecting on the Impact of Major Tech Conferences12:08 The Unique Role of Web Summit in the Tech Ecosystem12:40 The Importance of Promoting Tech Events12:52 Supporting Young Entrepreneurs and Startups13:16 The Global Influence of Tech Conferences13:32 Economic Impact of Tech Events on Cities15:30 The Growth of Tech Ecosystems in Canada19:57 Final Thoughts and Advice for Entrepreneurs

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, Edwin Frondozo chats with Tom Biegala, co-founder of Bison Ventures. Tom discusses the firm's focus on investing in groundbreaking deep technology and advanced science innovations designed to solve significant global challenges. With a robust $135 million fund, Bison Ventures targets sectors like AI, synthetic biology, climate tech, and more. Tom shares his insights from over 20 years of experience in engineering and venture capital, highlighting the importance of pattern recognition and practical approaches to big audacious goals in startup growth. He emphasizes partnering with visionary entrepreneurs to create impactful technological solutions that benefit both humanity and investors. Recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:17 Meet Tom Biegala: Co-Founder of Bison Ventures01:32 The Vision and Mission of Bison Ventures03:15 Challenges and Opportunities in Deep Tech Investing04:52 The Future of Human Health and Technology06:02 Partnering with Bison Ventures11:25 Advice for Founders and Investors12:24 Closing Thoughts and Web Summit Insights

Recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast features Edwin Frondozo interviewing Maxime Guilbot, founder and CEO of Ekohe. He is a global consulting agency specializing in AI-powered digital solutions. With over 20 years of experience in AI and digital transformation, Maxime shares his insights on how businesses can navigate and thrive in the AI era. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, the future of digital transformation, and the importance of continual adaptation and innovation. Maxim also highlights the significance of a multidisciplinary approach and maintaining optimism in the ever-evolving tech landscape.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:38 Meet Maxime Guilbot: AI Pioneer02:14 Maxime's Insights on AI and Business Transformation03:25 Challenges and Opportunities in AI Adoption05:01 The Future of AI and Business06:27 Maxime's Vision and Optimism for the Future08:17 Adapting to Exponential Growth12:28 Maxime's Personal Journey and Business Philosophy22:34 Final Thoughts and Advice for Business Leaders

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, host Edwin Frondozo is live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025 to explore how today's leaders shape the future, not just through strategy but through storytelling. Edwin interviews Jack Newton, founder and CEO of Clio, the pioneering company in cloud-based legal technology. Jack shares insights on Clio's journey from its inception in 2008 to becoming a global leader in legal practice management. He discusses the transformative impact of cloud and AI technologies on the legal industry, as well as his role in investing in and supporting diverse founders. Jack emphasizes the importance of AI in amplifying human productivity and reshaping work across industries. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:35 Guest Introduction: Jack Newton of Clio02:11 The Impact of Web Summit in Vancouver03:39 Clio's Journey and Vision05:10 Challenges and Convictions in Legal Tech09:11 Entrepreneurial Spirit and Early Ventures10:45 Investing in the Future of Legal Tech12:22 AI's Transformative Role in Business15:34 Leadership in the Age of AI19:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, creative producer Paul Newton and host Ed Frondozo sit down with serial entrepreneur and tech founder Tanis Jorge at the Web Summit in Vancouver 2025. Tanis, co-founder of multiple successful tech businesses and author of 'The Co-Founder's Handbook,' delves into the dynamics of co-founder partnerships. She shares insights from her two-decade-long career, emphasizing the importance of transparency, communication, and strategic alignment. The discussion touches on Tanis's experiences in building businesses with the same co-founder, the challenges of balancing personal and professional life, and practical advice for maintaining healthy co-founder relationships. Recorded live at a vibrant tech event, the episode provides valuable lessons for entrepreneurs on the significance of strong partnerships in driving business success.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:40 Meet T George: Serial Entrepreneur and Tech Founder01:08 The Co-Founder's Handbook and Hub01:37 Insights on Co-Founder Relationships02:14 Web Summit Vancouver Highlights03:15 The Co-Founders Hub: Solving Startup Challenges05:58 Navigating Co-Founder Partnerships09:31 Personal Stories and Challenges17:20 Final Thoughts and Advice

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, Edwin Frondozo chats with Mohan Gulati, CEO and co-founder of Thinker AI, a company on a mission to make AI sound more human. Mohan discusses his journey, from a personal experience with home repairs to creating natural-sounding voice AI that helps businesses connect with customers anytime, anywhere. He shares insights on the tech ecosystem in Vancouver, the significance of voice AI in modern business, and the future of human-AI interaction. Mohan also gives advice for entrepreneurs and highlights Thinker AI's unique approach to making technology intuitive and accessible.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:11 Meet Mohan Gulati: CEO of Thinker AI00:35 Mohan's Journey and Vision for Thinker AI01:14 Life in Vancouver and the Tech Community01:59 The Birth of Thinker AI: A Personal Story04:20 Building the Future of Voice AI06:51 The Unique Value Proposition of Thinker AI08:26 The Human Element in AI17:34 Advice for Entrepreneurs and Final Thoughts19:32 Conclusion and Takeaways from Web Summit Vancouver

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, Edwin Frondozo chats with Göksel Turman, founder of Compendial Technology, recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver. Göksel discusses his groundbreaking AI-driven platform, Matchpreneur AI, designed to facilitate effortless and accurate talent and opportunity matching for entrepreneurs, startups, and investors. Drawing from over 20 years of leadership experience across global corporations and startups, Göksel sheds light on the importance of efficient and collaborative tools in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. He shares his journey, the inspiration behind the platform, and the impact he hopes it will have on democratizing entrepreneurship. Göksel also explores the cultural differences in entrepreneurship between Europe and North America, aiming to bring best practices across borders to foster a more inclusive global startup environment.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:11 Meet Göksel Turman: Innovator in Entrepreneurship00:42 The Vision Behind Compendial Technology01:04 Welcome and Initial Impressions01:37 Exploring MatchPreneur AI04:03 The Personal Touch: Göksel's Unique Perspective06:35 Challenges and Solutions in Entrepreneurship09:20 Future of Entrepreneurship and Global Perspectives12:24 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, host Edwin Frondozo welcomes Avery Pennarun, the co-founder and CEO of Tailscale. Avery discusses his journey from a young tech enthusiast to heading a company that reimagines secure networking through a zero-trust, developer-friendly approach. He elaborates on how Tailscale simplifies the process of connecting devices directly, bypassing the complexities and costs associated with traditional network infrastructure. Avery also shares insights into the challenges of transitioning from a technical role to a leadership role and the importance of building a team that can outperform individual capabilities. The episode concludes with Avery receiving a copy of the book 'Future Narrative,' co-authored by Edwin and Paul Newton.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:39 Meet Avery Pennarun: The Reluctant Entrepreneur01:59 Avery's Experience at Web Summit Vancouver03:09 The Problem with Secure Networking08:07 Avery's Journey in Networking11:36 The Complexity of Modern Technology13:29 Tail Scale's Mission and Vision19:58 Advice for Aspiring Business Leaders21:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, hosted by Edwin Frondozo and recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, creative producer Paul Newton joins the discussion with guest Max So, a Canadian FinTech entrepreneur and CEO of Bravo Rewards. Max shares insights into how Bravo is transforming customer engagement for local businesses through innovative payment and reward systems. By comparing the financial capabilities of giants like Starbucks with the challenges faced by independent restaurants, Max outlines Bravo's strategy to support local businesses by converting foot traffic into lasting relationships and economic growth. With over 300 Vancouver restaurants and 24,000 users already onboard, Bravo is on a mission to empower local communities, offering a unique alternative to multinational chains. Max also provides advice to other entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of solving real-world problems with valuable solutions. The episode emphasizes community support and local business sustainability in an era dominated by large corporations.00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:40 Meet Max So: FinTech Innovator02:18 Challenges in the Restaurant Industry05:40 Bravo Rewards: A Game Changer10:45 The Vision for Local Businesses20:12 Empowering Canadian Consumers21:24 Final Thoughts and Farewell

In this episode, recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, host Edwin Frondozo and creative producer Paul Newton discuss with Soyoung Lee, co-founder of Twelve Labs, about the revolutionary strides her company is making in AI and video understanding. Twelve Labs is developing multimodal foundation models to make video searchable and accessible, solving the significant challenge of efficiently retrieving specific moments from video footage. The conversation covers the company's approach to handling complex video data, the intersection of machine learning and creative applications, and the importance of understanding customer needs in the tech development process. Soyoung shares her personal motivations and the impact of video in learning and storytelling, emphasizing the human aspect of technology in creating value.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:36 Meet Soyoung Lee: Innovator in AI Video Understanding02:04 The Problem with Video Search03:21 Personal and Business Applications of AI Video Understanding05:27 Unique Perspectives and Challenges in Video AI07:11 The Human Element in AI Development13:23 Advice for Entrepreneurs and Business Leaders14:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, host Edwin Frondozo and creative producer Paul Newton of the Future Narrator miniseries record live from Web Summit Vancouver 2025. They welcome Rob Safrata, CEO of Fuse Power Management and a noted triple bottom line entrepreneur. Rob discusses his journey in transforming traditional businesses into sustainable leaders, his philosophy of profit, people, and planet working in harmony, and his approach to electrification and vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technology. He also shares insights on servant and cause leadership, emphasizing the importance of having a purpose beyond oneself in driving meaningful change. The episode highlights Rob's innovative strategies and heartfelt commitment to sustainability and leadership, making it a must-listen for entrepreneurs and business leaders.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:36 Meet Rob Safrata: Sustainability Pioneer01:29 Insights from Web Summit Vancouver 202502:55 The Vision Behind Fuse Power Management05:12 The Future of Sustainable Energy08:07 Rob Safrata's Leadership Philosophy16:36 Advice for Business Leaders18:42 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, host Edwin Frondozo and Dr. Paul Newton, creative producer of the Future Narrator miniseries, speak with Craig Attiwill, the founder and CEO of Peloton Technologies. Craig shares insights on how his company is transforming the payments landscape for small and medium-sized businesses in Canada. With a background in engineering and extensive experience in both public and private sectors, Craig discusses the challenges and innovations of creating a unified, secure, and user-friendly payments platform. He also emphasizes the importance of high-performing teams, mentorship, and maintaining a positive work environment. The episode concludes with Craig offering advice to entrepreneurs and business leaders on resilience and perseverance in the face of industry challenges.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:38 Meet Craig Addiewell: Revolutionizing Canadian FinTech01:54 The Journey to Peloton Technologies03:07 Challenges and Innovations in Business Payments06:19 Building High-Performing Teams10:57 Transformative Impact on Businesses16:13 Final Thoughts and Advice for Business Leaders17:04 Closing Remarks 

This episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, recorded live at Web Summit Vancouver 2025, explores the transformative potential of AI with guest Natalie Monbiot, a pioneer in the virtual human economy. Natalie discusses her journey from co-founding one of the first AI avatar companies to her current work on AI twins designed to empower rather than replace humans. The conversation explores the ethical implications, the role of AI in augmenting human ingenuity, and the importance of preserving personal cognitive abilities. Key topics include the evolution of AI applications, the cultural impacts of AI-driven changes, and how leaders can harness AI for organizational benefit while safeguarding individual creativity and wisdom.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:38 Meet Natalie Monbiot: Pioneering Pro-Human AI02:01 Natalie's Journey in AI and Web Summit Reflections03:56 The Concept of the Virtual Human Economy09:17 Ethical AI and Trustworthiness13:45 The Future of AI and Human Creativity21:14 Final Thoughts on AI and Business Leadership

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, host Edwin Frondozo sits down with Sarah Graham, co-founder of Light One and winner of the Web Summit Vancouver 2025 pitch competition. Sarah discusses Light One's mission to transform the toxic global color and design industry by using microbiome biofabrication to create sustainable pigments. She details the environmental and health impact of synthetic dyes and how Light One aims to address these issues with its innovative microbial dyes. Sarah shares her journey from being a fashion designer to a biodesign entrepreneur, explaining the company's holistic and environmentally conscious approach. She highlights the significance of color in human expression and the urgent need for sustainable alternatives. Sarah also discusses the challenges and opportunities in bringing their technology to market, as well as the importance of having a dedicated team to drive meaningful change.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:49 Meet Sarah Graham: Winner of Web Summit Vancouver Pitch Competition01:56 The Problem with Synthetic Dyes03:16 The Birth of Light One04:22 Microbial Biofabrication: A Sustainable Solution05:22 Challenges and Opportunities in the Industry12:57 Sarah's Personal Journey and Passion18:49 The Future of Sustainable Color24:16 Final Thoughts and Advice for Innovators

In this episode of the Business Leadership Podcast, host Edwin Frondozo sits down with Anne Hunger, co-founder and Chief Product Officer of GlüxKind Technologies, a Vancouver-based startup revolutionizing mobility for young families. They discuss the development of their groundbreaking smart baby stroller, designed to provide safety and convenience. Anne shares insights from her parenting journey and how this inspired the creation of a motorized, power-assisted stroller. They delve into the impact of inclusive technology on parents, specifically those with physical limitations, and explore its broad potential applications beyond parenting. Anne also shares advice for hardware founders on quick prototyping and iteration to solve real-world problems.00:00 Introduction to the Business Leadership Podcast00:41 Meet Ann Hunger: Innovating Mobility for Young Families02:52 The Smart Baby Stroller: Features and Benefits04:41 Challenges and Innovations in the Stroller Industry07:02 Expanding the Smart Parenting Ecosystem08:10 Customer Experiences and Market Reach10:46 Technical Difficulties and Resuming the Interview23:02 Final Thoughts and Advice for Entrepreneurs