RG Podcast

Listen in to hear the views from experts Nathan Kowalski and Jonathan Kent on how Bermuda faired during 2025 and what the outlook and potential challenges are for 2026.   Nathan Kowalski Nathan is the Chief Financial Officer and Senior Portfolio Manager at Anchor Investment Management Ltd. He sits on the firm's investment committee, compliance committee, and finance committee and has been with the company since 2003.  Nathan holds a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), and Chartered Investment Manager (CIM) designations and is a Fellow of CSI (FCSI). He is a former President of the Chartered Financial Analyst Society of Bermuda board and the former Chair of the Economic Impact Working Group for the SAGE Commission. He was the former President of the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce.   Jonathan Kent, Business Writer Jonathan is a corporate writer for clients in the international business sector, producing content including white papers, web copy, press releases and thought-leadership articles. Before starting his own business in 2021, he was Business Editor and Deputy Editor of The Royal Gazette. During his journalistic career, he also covered news and sports for UK national and regional newspapers and magazines, including the Daily Mail, The Independent on Sunday and the Grimsby Telegraph. Jonathan has an MSc in International Management from the University of Liverpool.   Brought to you by The Royal Gazette

Listen in to Part 10 of the Bermuda Bankers Association Series on Frauds and Scams with special guests: Jason Smith, Head of the Bermuda Police Service Financial Crime Unit and Twynika Smith-Blakeney, HSBC Chief Compliance Officer.   Twynika Smith-Blakeney was appointed as the HSBC Bank Bermuda Limited’s Chief Compliance Officer on 1 August 2021. She joined the Bank in December 1999 and has over 25 years’ experience in the financial services industry, including various roles within the Bank’s Asset Management and Compliance departments. In September 2020, Twynika was appointed as the Interim Head of Regulatory Compliance and in December 2020, was appointed as the Interim Chief Compliance Officer where she provided leadership to the Compliance function. In her capacity as Chief Compliance Officer, Twynika is responsible for leading the Bank’s Compliance department to ensure that HSBC’s operations in Bermuda are effective in identifying, managing, and mitigating Regulatory Compliance and Financial Crime and Fraud risks.   With three decades of exemplary policing experience, Jason Smith serves as the Head of the Bermuda Police Service Financial Crime Unit, leading complex investigations involving money laundering, fraud, corruption, and emerging financial threats. A seasoned Senior Investigating Officer, he applies strategic oversight, rigorous investigative standards, and international best practices to safeguard Bermuda’s financial integrity. His leadership has strengthened cross-border partnerships, enhanced investigative capability, and guided high-profile financial-crime inquiries. Supported by numerous commendations, advanced investigative training, and a proven record of transformational leadership, he continues to drive innovation, uphold regulatory confidence, and protect the island’s global reputation as a trusted financial jurisdiction.   Sponsored by Bermuda Bankers Association www.bermudabankers.org

In this episode of the Best Health Podcast, intuitive energy therapist and breath work facilitator Vanessa Scott joins us to explore how something as simple as your breath can transform mental and physical health. From reducing stress and anxiety to boosting energy, focus, and resilience, Vanessa shares practical tools and insights to help you harness the power of breath work. Tune in to learn how mindful breathing can be a gateway to healing, balance, and better overall health.   Sponsor: Lindo's

In this episode of the Best Health podcast, Carrie sits down with Mike Doehla, founder of Stronger U, to debunk common nutrition myths and break down what sustainable fat loss really looks like. From mindless snacking and emotional eating to "villainized" food groups and diet culture nonsense, Mike shares refreshing, compassionate advice that anyone can apply. Tune in for real talk and practical tools for lasting health.   At 40, Mike Doehla officially retired after selling his nutrition coaching company, Stronger U. After becoming one of Americas fastest growing companies without paid marketing, hiring 100+ coaches, and helping people around the world lose more than a million pounds, he felt his job was done and it was time for change. Now, a married full-time dad of two girls, Mike shares his wisdom and experience with the industry to continue to improve the lives of others and help raise the bar.     Sponsor: Lindo's  

Listen in to Part 9 of the Bermuda Bankers Association Series on Building Generational Wealth, with guest Neville Grant the new CEO of the BBA.   Neville Grant is the CEO of the Bermuda Bankers Associations, Independent Non-Executive Director and the former Chief Executive Officer of Bermuda Commercial Bank. Neville’s nearly 30-year business career includes a number of senior roles in banking formally with HSBC, both locally and internationally, as well as the former General Manager of Bermuda Economic Development Corporation. Neville sits on a few boards and committees current and former including Fortitude Re (current), Bermuda Commercial Bank (former), Bermuda Economic Development Corporation (former), Proserve Bermuda (former) and the Centennial Bermuda Foundation – Economic Participation Committee (current). After spending time with his wife and two kids (17 & 15), Neville spends his time boating, fishing and travelling for enjoyment.   • Sponsored by Bermuda Bankers Association www.bermudabankers.org

Erica and Theresa from Vision Bermuda join us to discuss living well with vision loss. With an aging population and rising rates of diseases like diabetes and hypertension, vision impairment is an increasing concern. They share how Vision Bermuda empowers residents with tailored programs, highlights the importance of regular eye health care starting in childhood, and provides practical tips for adapting to vision changes while maintaining independence and wellbeing.   Erica Ingemann is the Executive Director of Vision Bermuda and a licensed speech language pathologist with a heart for service and a passion for helping others thrive. A dedicated advocate for accessibility and inclusion, she balances her professional life with being a very busy (and very proud) mommy. Erica is a self-proclaimed giver who finds joy in baking, reading, traveling (when the budget cooperates), and making people smile. She believes laughter is essential, rest is a myth, and happiness is contagious.   Theresa McMordie is passionate about helping people with vision loss live with confidence and independence.    At Vision Bermuda, she designs programs that not only teach practical skills but also bring joy, connection, and a sense of community. Known for her creative energy and down-to-earth approach, Theresa believes in making every interaction uplifting and meaningful. Outside of her work, she loves gig rowing on the beautiful Bermuda ocean, where the power of teamwork and the rhythm of the waves reflect the same values she brings into her life and work: support, resilience, and shared purpose.   Sponsor: Lindo's

Listen in to Part 8 of the series with the Bermuda Bankers Association: Insurance to Protect your Assets   Geoff Scott has over 30 years’ experience in the financial services industry, including leadership roles in risk management, business development and client relationship management. He assumed progressively senior positions as a commercial banker with leading Canadian banks and transitioned to Barbados in 2012 as the Chief Risk Officer at a leading Caribbean commercial bank, where he successfully led several change initiatives which strengthened the risk culture and alignment with business strategies. Subsequently, Geoff was Chief Executive Officer at Barbados’ leading composite insurance company.   Geoff is currently the Chief Executive Officer of the Bermuda Bankers Association, where he represents the banking industry with advocacy, education and communications aimed at a range of stakeholders.   Geoff is Chairman of the Board of Commissioners of the Turks and Caicos Islands Financial Services Commission, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of National Commercial Bank of Anguilla. Geoff is a Chartered Director accredited by the Caribbean Governance Training Institute.   Sponsored by Bermuda Bankers Association www.bermudabankers.org

Back-to-school is here, and packing healthy lunches doesn't have to be stressful! In this episode, Registered Dietitian Sarah from Island Nutrition shares real-life, practical tips to help you build nourishing, balanced lunchboxes without guilt, overwhelm, or breaking the bank. We unpack common myths, talk picky eating, and explore how food affects focus, learning, and behaviour-plus how to involve kids without mealtime turning into a battle.   Sarah is a highly experienced Registered Dietitian specializing in both paediatric and adult nutrition. With over a decade of clinical experience—including 10 years in the UK’s National Health Service and two years as the sole dietitian on the remote island of Saint Helena—she brings a deep understanding of diverse health conditions and the unique nutritional challenges of island living. At Island Nutrition, Sarah supports clients across a broad range of concerns, from early childhood nutrition to women’s health, diabetes, kidney disease, and more. Known for her compassionate, practical approach, Sarah thrives on helping people make realistic dietary changes that align with their lifestyle. She’s passionate about simplifying nutrition with engaging visual tools and personalized advice—even if that means scouring food labels in the supermarket. Outside of the clinic, Sarah is a mother to two daughters, an avid diver, and a devoted baker with a signature lemon drizzle cake.   Sponsor: Lindo's

In this episode, infant and early childhood mental health consultant Gwendolyn Creary sheds light on a powerful truth: mental health starts at birth. We explore how a parent’s emotional well-being impacts early childhood development, why parenting can feel so emotionally intense, and how we can better support caregivers. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed in parenting or wondered how to raise emotionally strong kids, this one’s for you.   Gwendolyn Creary is a licensed mental health counsellor with over 25 years of experience in early intervention, specializing in infant and early childhood development. She is the founder of Parent Guide, a private practice where she works as an Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant(IECMHC). In this role, Gwendolyn partners with parents, day-care providers, teachers, and other early childhood professionals to improve the social, emotional, and behavioural health of young children in homes, childcare, and early education settings. Her mission is to build the capacity of all caregivers to understand how their relationships and interactions influence child development—helping to prevent physical and mental health problems before they arise. A mother of two adult children and a proud grandmother to her 7-month-old grandson, Gwendolyn brings both professional expertise and personal insight to her deeply compassionate work with families.   Sponsor: Lindo's

About The Culture is a podcast that dives into the heart of what makes Bermuda, Bermuda. Each episode explores how time and generations have shaped our island’s culture and identity — from our unique traditions and ways of life to the influences of the wider world. We’ll be sharing historical facts, personal experiences, and honest opinions on everything from holidays and food to music, and growing up Bermudian. To keep things fun, every episode includes games, challenges, or trivia based on the topic — testing just how well you really know the Rock. Whether you’re a local  or just curious about island life, this is where Bermuda’s past and present come together with a twist of Gen Z energy. Brought to you by the RG Next Gen Interns, Shia Bean, Joaquin O’Conner, and Khyii Perinchief —We hope you to inform, challenge and entertain you!  "Live It, Learn It and Pass It On"   Sponsor: Brought to you by The Royal Gazette

Celebrating 75 years in business, the Kitson Group of Companies launches ALTURA – remote work and office solutions in the heart of Hamilton. Listen in to find out more… Scott Kitson is Director at the Kitson Group of Companies. Founded in 1947 by Scott’s grandfather, the Group’s diverse businesses include: Residential & Commercial Real Estate development and management Gorham’s - Bermuda’s largest hardware, lumber and home goods business Rosedon Hotel - Uniquely Bermudian boutique hotel and restaurants ALTURA – flexible workspaces in the heart of Hamilton As past president of charity Keep Bermuda Beautiful, Scott has a passion for our islands, especially regarding environmental stewardship and responsibility. Kitson’s has the largest privately installed base of Solar Photovoltaic and Solar Thermal Hot Water in Bermuda and is dedicated to promoting and implementing environmentally sustainable practice throughout their operations. Sponsored by Kitson Group of Companies, Altura

Please listen in to learn about the Bermuda High School for girls’ unique STEAM – Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths – curriculum.   Catherine Hollingsworth, Deputy Head of School & Head of Secondary: Catherine has 30+ years of teaching, lecturing and leadership experience. With experience in both co-ed and all-girls schools, she has a fundamental understanding of the benefits of all-girls learning. Her individualised approach to innovative curriculum and learning ensures that every child has a programme that allows them to succeed. The pleasure she gets from students’ success, on either the sports field or in the classroom, is evident. Catherine holds an Honours Bachelor degree in Physical Education and Mathematics from the University of Gloucestershire. She played netball at the national level, and is happiest when working with various netball teams and teaching PE.   Jodie Walters, Digital Design, Media and Creative Technology Teacher: Jodie joined BHS in 2022 as our Digital Design, Media, and Creative Technology teacher, launching our middle school Creative Design Curriculum and implementing the iGCSE in Design and Technology. Relocating from the UK, Jodie has 20+ years of teaching and leadership experience. She holds a Bachelor of Education in Design & Technology with Honours from the University of Exeter. Jodie has brought a wealth of knowledge to her role, teaching skills in woodworking, textiles, graphics, Computer Aided Design & Manufacture, product design & digital media. Jodie has taken on the role of STEAM Coordinator, making her responsible for coordinating the STEAM curriculum and designing/executing our beloved STEAM Week.   Sponsored by Bermuda High School

In this inspiring episode of Best Health, join our host Carrie as she sit downs with Kim Hogg, the incredible woman who embarked on a journey to transform her health and life. Starting with a vision of becoming the best version of herself, Kim shares her experience of losing an astonishing 80lbs using a compassionate, flexible dieting approach. This conversation is a testament to the power of resilience, self-love, and the limitless potential within us all.   Update: Since the time of recording, Kim Hogg has successfully achieved her goal of losing 100 pounds, further demonstrating her dedication and perseverance in her health journey.   Kim is a traveling teacher who has spent the last 23 years internationally. This is her second time in Bermuda, a treasured place that has held her steady through change and growth both personal and professional. When not at the gym or wrangling a classroom of adolescents, you can find her at home with a book, at the yoga studio, or watching the surf. She is a collector of hobbies and is always looking to learn something new. She is grateful for the love and support of her community who have stood by her on this journey to better health and wellbeing. Their encouragement and celebration have made the hard days endurable and the good days joyful.    Sponsor: Lindo's

Listen into Part 7 of the Bermuda Bankers Association Series on Elder Abuse. Special guest Mercedes Pringle-DeSilva joins us in the study to discuss this important topic.   Mercedes Pringle is the Executive Director of Age Concern Bermuda, the island’s leading nonprofit advocating for the rights and well-being of adults aged 50 and over. She began her journey with the organization in 2018, progressively advancing through key operational roles before being appointed Executive Director in 2023 and has led the organization's growth since then.   Mercedes and her team are matchmakers of resources, connecting thousands of older adults each year with vital support in healthcare, financial aid, education, and long-term care. Her leadership is grounded in a deep personal commitment to her own family elders and making Bermuda an age-friendly community where seniors are empowered, respected, and supported.   Sponsored by Bermuda Bankers Association www.bermudabankers.org

In this episode, pediatric physiotherapist Caroline Roque joins us to explore how early movement shapes a child’s physical development. We dive into tummy time, motor milestones, screen time, and what every parent should know to help their kids build strong foundations from infancy. Whether you're a new parent or a seasoned one, this conversation is packed with practical tips and empowering insights.   Caroline Roque is a Registered Physiotherapist. She earned a Bachelor of Science (Honors) degree in Physiotherapy from Huddersfield University in 2002. During her undergraduate training, she began to focus her attention on pediatrics completing her final placement at Westmead Children’s Hospital in Sydney, Australia. She moved to Bermuda in 2010 and worked for 15 years at the Department of Health    Sponsor: Lindo's

Listen in to Part 6 of the series with the Bermuda Bankers Association and special guest Dianne Blais: Planning for Retirement   Dianne McLeod-Blais is a Vice President and Sr. Wealth Advisor in charge of our dedicated Financial Planning and Wealth Advisory team that sits within Private Banking. She has over 25 years of experience in financial planning and wealth management for international clients.   Prior to joining Butterfield, Dianne was the Executive Vice President, Financial Planning and Investments for Barrington Investments Limited (Bermuda). Before joining Barrington, she held various wealth management positions with financial institutions in Canada.   Dianne earned her Certified Financial Planner designation (Canadian Institute of Financial Planning) in 1999 and obtained her Masters in Financial Services from Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.   Dianne is also an Elder Planning Counselor (Canadian Initiative for Elder Planning Studies), a Certified International Wealth Manager (Canadian Securities Institute), and a Fellow of both the Canadian Securities Institute and the Institute of Canadian Bankers.   Sponsored by Bermuda Bankers Association www.bermudabankers.org

Join us on the Best Health podcast as host Carrie Lee Astwood interviews Dr. Carika Weldon, founder of CariGenetics. Discover the transformative power of genetic testing and its impact on personalized healthcare. Dr. Weldon shares insights on her DNA kits, the importance of genetic testing, and how understanding our genetics can enhance mental and physicalperformance.   Dr Carika Weldon, PhD, MRSB, FIBMS (Founder, CEO, and Director of Research) is a Bermudian biochemist and the first sole black female founder of a genomics company in the world. She received her Bachelor of Science honours degree in Medical Biochemistry from the University of Leicester, then went on to complete her Doctor of Philosophy in Biochemistry at the same university. In 2015, Dr Weldon became the youngest full-time Lecturer in Biomedical and Medical Sciences at De Montfort University in the UK. In 2016, Dr Weldon founded the Bermuda Principles Foundation (BPF), to make a worthwhile contribution to Bermudian society in both the education and science tourism sectors. In November 2018, Dr Weldon returned to full-time research, working as a Research Scientist within the Oxford Genomics Centre at the University of Oxford. In April 2020, called by the Bermuda Government, Dr Weldon returned to Bermuda to expand testing capacity for COVID-19 and was appointed as Science Advisor to the Premier for COVID-19 and Laboratory Director of the government’s Molecular Diagnostic Laboratory, which she created. Dr Weldon was granted a Queen’s Certificate & Badge of Honour in November 2020. Currently, Dr Weldon is an adjunct lecturer at the Bermuda College, teaching Molecular Medicine, along with her current role at CariGenetics. She is focused on ensuring the research culture the pandemic fostered amongst healthcare professionals and the general public is harnessed for a healthier future for Bermuda.    Sponsor: Lindo's

Listen in to Part 5 of the series with the Bermuda Bankers Association and special guest Simon Van de Weg from Clarien: Borrowing Money – mortgages, credit cards and debt management   Simon Van de Weg – Chief Banking Officer   Simon leads Clarien’s Lending, Retail and Corporate Banking business and is responsible for managing high value customers and special project initiatives. Prior to joining Clarien in 2015, Simon was Finance & Credit Director with Intelsat, Luxembourg. In this role he customised credit policy and solutions to mitigate customer, transaction and financial risks. From 2004 to 2008, he held the post of Vice-President, Structured Finance and Letters of Credit with Butterfield Bank, Bermuda after a previously progressing through various banking roles in investments and product management. Simon is a CMA/CPA, holds an Associate in Reinsurance designation and graduated from Dalhousie University in Canada   Sponsored by Bermuda Bankers Association www.bermudabankers.org

Tune in as we sit down with William Campbell and Aaron Crichlow of Bermuda is Love to discuss healthcare as a basic human right, barriers to access, and what we can do to create a healthier Bermuda for all.   Bermuda Is Love is a community-driven charity founded in August 2020 to create a more just and compassionate Bermuda. Their mission is to ensure access to food, housing, clothing, healthcare, education, justice, and a healthy environment for all. Through initiatives like trash cleanups, blooddrives, free clothing giveaways, school breakfasts, health clinics, legal advice clinics, and scholarship programs, they work to support those in need. The organization also advocates for systemic change, striving to build a society where everyone can flourish and achieve their dreams.   Instagram: @bdaislove Website: www.bermudaislove.com   Sponsor: Lindo's

Listen in to Part 4 of this podcast series with Bermuda Bankers Association: Saving and Investing   Geoff Scott has over 30 years’ experience in the financial services industry, including leadership roles in risk management, business development and client relationship management. He assumed progressively senior positions as a commercial banker with leading Canadian banks and transitioned to Barbados in 2012 as the Chief Risk Officer at a leading Caribbean commercial bank, where he successfully led several change initiatives which strengthened the risk culture and alignment with business strategies. Subsequently, Geoff was Chief Executive Officer at Barbados’ leading composite insurance company.   Geoff is currently the Chief Executive Officer of the Bermuda Bankers Association, where he represents the banking industry with advocacy, education and communications aimed at a range of stakeholders.   Geoff is Chairman of the Board of Commissioners of the Turks and Caicos Islands Financial Services Commission, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of National Commercial Bank of Anguilla. Geoff is a Chartered Director accredited by the Caribbean Governance Training Institute.   Sharmaine La has been with Butterfield for 17+ years, starting out as a Management Trainee and currently working in the Retail Banking area. She has had the opportunity of collaborating on various retail product projects and system upgrades over the years and created and maintains a thriving employee recognition program for customer facing employees under the Retail banking umbrella. Her favourite aspect of the job however, involves actively serving on Butterfield’s employee engagement team and educating students and young adults on financial literacy.   Kevin Grant is a Senior Portfolio Manager with over 35 years of experience in investment services, business development, investor relations, financial consulting and securities-transaction-related activities. Joining Butterfield in 2013, Kevin has worked extensively in Bermuda, the United States, Europe, Asia and the Middle East, providing these services to high-net-worth individuals and institutional clients. Mr. Grant has extensive knowledge of the alternative investments industry, covering various capital structure arbitrage and credit-related strategies, including structured products. Kevin has a B.B.A. in Finance from Hofstra University in Long Island, New York. He has completed the C.F.A. Level I and the Series 7 General Securities Representative examinations, as well as extensive investment product and client service training programmes at both Smith Barney (Citigroup) and Edward Jones Investments.   Sponsored by Bermuda Bankers Association www.bermudabankers.org