The Business Gay

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with business growth strategist, Marc Smith. Marc has over 40 years of diverse experience in driving growth and innovation across multiple industries. Most recently as a fractional COO of a multi-location cafe, Marc successfully overhauled operations, introduced modern HR policies, implemented strategic marketing initiatives, and boosted gross revenue by over 30%. His expertise in refining operations and improving cost efficiencies made a significant impact on the company's bottom line. Watch on YouTube --- ► Today’s Sponsor is QuickBooks Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: Marc Smith on LinkedIn Marc on Instagram --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [02:00] Emphasizing efficiency can lead to significant time savings in business processes. [09:00] Prioritizing project-oriented work enhances employee satisfaction and productivity. [14:20] Automating processes, like payroll, reduces workload and ensures compliance. [21:57] Seeking outside perspectives can help business owners facing high turnover and low foot traffic identify solutions. [23:31] Utilizing underused resources can boost revenue without additional costs; efficiency is essential. [28:22] Prioritize user experience when launching a website; customer feedback is crucial before going live. [32:28] Engage peers for constructive criticism and fresh insights when starting a business. [39:11] Embrace quick failures as learning opportunities; adaptability is vital for success.

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with entrepreneur, Cat Perez. Cat and partner Marianna Di Regolo - Cat’s wife - co-founded Famm together, a platform that makes it easy to discover and support hundreds of LGBTQ+ owned brands and service providers. Cat is the CEO of Famm and has 20 years of expertise in the product, design, and startup growth world where their focus was on creating impactful solutions. Previously, Cat co-founded a tech startup leading product and design to build the #1 private Affordable Care Act enrolment platform, which helped over 15 million people access affordable health coverage in the US. Cat’s passion lies in using design thinking to drive growth and innovation, particularly in the impact sector. Watch on YouTube --- ► Today’s Sponsor is QuickBooks Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: HeyFamm.com Hey Famm on Instagram Cat Perez on LinkedIn --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [00:15] Famm is an LGBTQ+ platform for e-commerce discovery and storytelling through entrepreneur interviews. [01:26] Cat and Marianna emphasize values alignment and storytelling for deeper brand connections. [06:20] Clear boundaries in partnerships and effective communication are essential for success. [10:39] Setting work-life boundaries is crucial to prevent burnout and maintain relationships. [13:00] They prioritize community building and support over competition, aiming for visibility. [17:04] Cat acknowledges challenges for LGBTQ+ businesses yet expresses confidence in their resilience. [21:00] Growth pacing depends on resources; they aim to connect the community as a growth strategy. [24:27] Selling the business might be an option, but alignment with values is crucial. [25:51] Interested individuals can visit their website to learn more and sign up for the Famm Connect app.

Normally I'm the one doing the interview, but this week we're flipping it and reversing it and I'm the one being interviewed. Back in June, I was on the Making Good Podcast throwing down some mad knowledge about SEO and business. It was so well received by listeners that I asked host Lauren Tilden if it would be alright to share it with all of you. --- Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: Making Good Podcast SEO for Podcasting Article --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: What SEO is, and why folks should be paying attention to it The different ways SEO comes into play Website “MUSTS” for getting found SEO tips for podcasts Why I started “The Business Gay” podcast The role podcasting has had on my business

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with entrepreneur, Ryder Damen. Ryder is a creative technologist, content creator, and the CTO of Cache, a brand new Toronto startup in the fashion resale space. Ryder is bullish about taking big risks and reaching for delusional goals. Watch on YouTube --- ► Today’s Sponsor is QuickBooks Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: Cacheinyourcloset.com Ryder Damon on IG Ryder Damon on LinkedIn @cacheinyourcloset on IG ---

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with CEO of Grengine Inc, Connie Stacey. Connie is both the founder and owner of Grengine Inc, an award-winning battery manufacturer located in Edmonton, Alberta. She founded Grengine in 2014 with a desire to replace diesel generators with a clean energy alternative which centres on her patented modular battery technology. Grengine proudly manufactures its batteries in Edmonton and has a strong focus on DEI and building a sustainable supply chain. Watch on YouTube --- ► Today’s Sponsor is QuickBooks - Bookkeeping made simple Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: Grengine.com Connie Stacey on LinkedIn --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [00:31] Connie Stacey explains Grengine’s innovative battery pack technology over traditional manufacturing. [02:10] Intelligent battery self-identification reduces labor costs and deployment challenges. [04:34] Importance of battery security and advanced encryption. [11:24] Emphasis on ethical sourcing of materials free from child labor issues. [16:18] "Planned advancement" helps create future-proof battery systems. [19:55] Alberta's energy crisis illustrates varying support for renewables between urban and rural areas. [22:34] Batteries can lower electricity bills by storing cheaper overnight energy. [26:32] Energy poverty remains a significant global issue, with 1 billion lacking electricity access. [29:05] Decentralizing energy generation proves to be more efficient and reliable. [30:28] DC systems can enhance energy efficiency by up to 30%. [32:06] Future energy systems need redundancy and efficiency beyond traditional grids.

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with investment specialist, William Burckart. William co-founded The Investment Integration Project (TIIP), which helps investors manage systemic risks and invest in related solutions. He is also an Adjunct Professor of International and Public Affairs at Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs (SIPA) and a fellow of the High Meadows Institute. Watch on YouTube --- ► Today’s Sponsor is QuickBooks - Bookkeeping Made Simple Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: tiiproject.com William Burckart on LinkedIn --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [00:28] System level investing tackles issues like climate change and income inequality by improving the context for companies. [02:31] Beta activism promotes systemic change across industries rather than focusing solely on individual companies. [09:03] Impact investing should evaluate outcomes and their broader implications instead of just job creation. [11:08] Short-term investing deepens systemic problems; a long-term approach can lead to fairer economic systems. [23:08] Burckart advocates for an outcomes-focused impact investing strategy to directly address social issues. [26:24] Colorful Capital invests in LGBTQI+ led companies to correct historical funding inequities. [31:12] LGBTQI+ businesses show strong investment potential, outperforming in job creation and exits. [32:32] A Morgan Stanley study indicates rising client demand for LGBTQI+ equity investing amidst systemic market issues. [35:04] Exclusionary investing practices waste over $1 trillion in potential investments, exposing systemic biases. [39:24] Burckart encourages collaboration with TIIP and Colorful Capital to enhance LGBTQI+ investments.

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with CEO & Co-Founder of Bindr, Mary Richardson. Mary brings over 6 years of experience in building startups, marketing, community building, public speaking, and software to her role as CEO. Her experience in being involved in software companies, as well as her social awareness enables her to build a loyal community around Bindr. She has won several pitch competitions and awards, including a Women In Tech: Diversity and Inclusion Award and the first ever 2SLGBTQIA+ Entrepreneur Award with a $60,000 prize at this years StartupFest in Montreal. Watch on YouTube --- ► Today’s Sponsor is QuickBooks - Bookkeeping Made Easy Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: Bindr.Dating Mary Richardson on LinkedIn --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [00:00:17] Mary wins a pitch competition at Startupfest, crucial for queer entrepreneurs. [00:01:40] Bindr is an inclusive dating app for LGBTQ+ users that does not require specifying sexual orientation. [00:03:32] The app rapidly gained users and offers resources, including free support for the community. [00:06:34] Mary shares experiences of discrimination on dating apps and discusses the challenges for bi and pansexual individuals. [00:10:11] Bindr offers a label-free experience, promoting diverse identities in a welcoming environment. [00:13:37] Securing funding is challenging for queer founders, with less than 0.5% of VC funding reaching LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. [00:18:56] The startup avoids predatory offers and focuses on strategic pitch competitions for funding. [00:22:31] Bindr is available on major platforms, continually improving based on user feedback. [00:24:17] The app grows by 500 to 2,000 users daily, adapting features based on user requests. [00:26:02] Mary's goal with Bindr is to combat conversion therapy and foster a safe community for users.

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with the Owner of The Bourbon Pub & Parade in New Orleans and co-founder of Girl Bar, Sandy Sachs. Recognized in OUT Magazine's 'Out100,' Sandy has been instrumental in shaping spaces for the lesbian community, beginning with the co-founding of Girl Bar in Los Angeles, the largest lesbian-centric entertainment group in the U.S. and the renowned Girl Bar Dinah Shore Weekend in Las Vegas, a definitive event in lesbian nightlife. Fun Fact: Her influence also inspired the character Dawn Denbo on Showtime’s "The L Word,” for those who remember the show. Watch on YouTube --- ► Today’s Sponsor is QuickBooks - Your Business Finances Made Easy Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: BourbonPub.com --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [00:31] Sandy Sachs co-founded Girl Bar in LA, inspired by the need for a lesbian-centric space. [05:34] Creating dedicated spaces like Girl Bar positively impacts the LGBTQ+ community by meeting their needs and providing a safe environment. [10:28] Sandy Sachs continues to nurture the next generation of LGBTQ+ spaces [14:05] Girl Bar's success led to hosting events in various cities, showcasing its popularity and impact. [17:54] Sandy Sachs' journey of owning different LGBTQ+ clubs, transitioning from LA to New Orleans, highlights her adaptability in revitalizing LGBTQ+ spaces. [22:16] Sandy emphasizes the importance of maintaining LGBTQ+ spaces that the community feels proud of. [23:24] Importance of maintaining LGBTQ+ landmark spots to preserve community spaces. [30:23] Challenges in maintaining LGBTQ+ spaces as younger generations seek alternative venues. [33:20] Evolution of queer spaces to adapt to changing trends, like offering non-alcoholic options.

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with Co-founder and CEO of Dayo, Corey Scholibo. Dayo is the first-ever mental health company that pays people to stay off social media. Corey recently sold his last venture Wile, a plant-powered, naturopathic, wellness brand for peri-menopause and midlife, where he served as Co-Founder, President and CEO. A seasoned entrepreneur, Corey is also the co-founder and former CMO of Repurpose, the leading brand of compostable tableware in retail, and has advised and worked with brands like Tiffany & Co, M.A.C. Cosmetics, Indiegogo, and Caboo. Corey likes to start businesses that help the environment, create visibility and markets for underserved and excluded demographics, and change human behaviour for the better. Watch on YouTube --- ► Today’s Sponsor is QuickBooks - Bookkeeping Made Simple Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: Dayo.co Corey Scholibo on LinkedIn --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [00:29] Corey Scholibo discusses his drive as a serial entrepreneur to address underlying issues in society. [02:46] Corey co-founded a company called Repurpose to reduce plastic usage, highlighting the importance of addressing environmental issues. [04:52] A focus on women's health and empowerment led to creating solutions for menopause and its impact on society. [05:20] Corey's current focus is on the attention economy and the negative impact of social media on mental health, democracy, and the climate. [09:56] Discussing navigating exits, Corey emphasizes the importance of understanding liabilities and protections during the process. [14:06] Corey Scholibo introduces "Dayo,” an AI-powered app incentivizing users to limit social media use by earning rewards for staying offline. [19:47] Social media is designed with powerful tools like infinite scroll to hook users [21:54] Rewarding good behaviour on social media is more effective than chastising bad behaviour [23:41] Dayo aims to change social behaviour and address mental health impacts of excessive social media use [25:35] Dayo will include challenges and incentives for positive social interactions

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with Idara Effiom and Eli Kriv from Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce, also known as the CGLCC. Every year the CGLCC runs its “OUT for Business” mentorship program for 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs. Since 2017, they’ve been empowering 2SLGBTQI+ business owners with mentorship from local leaders, plus networking and business education. Idara and Eli are the dynamic duo behind the newly revamped “OUT for Business” program. This year, they're shaking things up starting with no age limits for mentee applicants and much more. Get ready for networking opportunities and personalized business growth sessions than ever before. Plus, they're adding a wellness component to foster a supportive community of mentors and mentees across Canada. Watch on YouTube --- ► Today’s Sponsor is Canada's 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: OUT For Business Program: APPLY HERE The CGLCC on Instagram The CGLCC on LinkedIn Idara on LinkedIn Eli on LinkedIn --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [02:21] Program structured with one-to-one mentorship, group sessions, and tailored workshops for entrepreneurs at different stages. [05:39] Community spaces, group sessions, and networking opportunities help combat the loneliness often experienced by LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. [06:05] The program is open to LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs at various levels, promoting diversity and inclusion within the community. [08:21] Mentorship plays a vital role in entrepreneurship, providing guidance, support, and a sense of community for LGBTQ+ individuals. [14:40] Additional program resources include business development sessions, tailored to address the needs of LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. [18:05] Application process for the program involves filling out a registration form on the CGCC website. [19:42] Program acceptance depends on the number of mentors available to match with mentees, aiming for inclusivity and support for all who apply. [22:57] The goal of the Out for Business program is to increase the number of thriving queer businesses in the Canadian economy. [28:18] Future plans for Out for Business include engaging with the indigenous community, developing robust programming, and hosting gatherings. [30:21] Applications for the Out for Business program are open on a rolling basis until program capacity is reached, with a start date in September.

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with entrepreneur and founder of the app "Drag Me," Ailsa Blair. Ailsa is a neuro-diverse trans-non-binary queer, who grew up in Liverpool, England. At heart, they’re a product design leader, having spent over a decade in the field. Ailsa was part of the project team that was third in the world in building out instant payouts, behind only Square and PayPal. In 2023, Ailsa began their own adventure building Drag Me, a mobile app that globally supports both Fans and Artists of the art-of-drag. Outside of work, Ailsa loves to hike with their husky lab mix pup Bruce. If they're not in the woods getting lost somewhere, they're on a beach, and if not there they’re in, or on, the water. Watch on YouTube --- ► Today’s Sponsor is QuickBooks - Small Business Bookkeeping Made Easy Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: DragMe.io Ailsa Blair on LinkedIn --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [00:29] Drag Me app is a One-Stop mobile app for both fans and artists in the drag community. [02:02] The app features e-commerce for merch, event recommendations, and supports drag artists with fair fee structures. [04:35] Transitioning from product design to entrepreneurship involves wearing multiple hats and learning diverse skills. [07:43] Securing funding as an LGBTQ+ founder can be challenging due to misconceptions about niche markets. [10:00] Unexpectedly, the founder enjoys entrepreneurship after initially being unsure about starting a business. [13:24] LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs exhibit resilience and combat imposter syndrome while striving for success. [15:38] Drag Me app is close to its full launch, with the artist side recently released for testing. [17:27] Future plans for Drag Me include in-depth user research to continually improve the app's features. [18:22] Drag Me app is available for download on the App Store, with plans to expand to Android shortly. [19:30] For partnership opportunities or ideas, interested parties can reach out to Ailsa via LinkedIn.

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with Renée Yoxon. Renée is a gender-affirming voice teacher with a passion for voice education, creativity, and vocal curiosity. Since 2010, they have taught thousands of students how to love their voice. Their strength as a teacher is explaining complicated concepts in plain language that anyone can understand, as well as anticipating student problems before they occur. They are the creator of a suite of online courses that provide concise and easy-to-follow trans voice education to trans and nonbinary people all over the world. Watch on YouTube --- ► Today’s Sponsor is QuickBooks - Business Bookkeeping Made Easy Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: RenéeYoxon.com Renée on TikTok Renée on Instagram Renée on YouTube --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [02:21] When crafting copy, dig deeper than broad terms like "women" to reach specific target groups. [05:12] Thoughtful exclusion is acceptable as long as the targeted group is clearly defined, but consider inclusivity if unsure. [07:31] Change in language reflects growth and learning rather than admitting past mistakes. [15:24] Cancel culture can hinder personal growth when individuals genuinely strive to learn and improve from mistakes. [16:20] Slow growth allows businesses to form relationships, adapt to larger audiences, and communicate more thoughtfully to avoid viral controversies. [21:41] Positive experiences in using platforms like TikTok can lead to successful business ventures and broader reach in sharing knowledge and experiences. [23:44] Focuses on portraying transition as joyful and positive in content to empower those with similar perspectives [24:39] Avoid perpetuating stereotypes about being trans and recognize authenticity as situational, continually evolving language and messaging [25:06] Embrace imperfection in order to learn and improve and try new things

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with HR Consultant & DEI Specialist, Clea Arrieta. Clea is a big sister, first-generation Canadian, and queer woman of colour. She’s had the deep privilege of working with incredible teams within the tech, non-profit, and civic organizing spaces that are focused on creating employee experiences that matter. By day, she is an HR Consultant at Bright + Early who works to partner with small to mid-size organizations to create thoughtful and intentional employee experiences. And by night, she sits on the board of QueerTech and Mabuhay House Society. Watch on YouTube --- ► Today’s Sponsor is QuickBooks - Never lose sight of your business expenses again Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: Brightandearly.ca Clea Arrieta on LinkedIn --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [00:16] HR myths stem from historical views but organizations, big or small, benefit from investing in HR early on. [02:32] HR should be customized based on the size, scale, and stage of the organization, focusing on collaboration and feedback. [05:36] Small businesses with 2-10 employees should prioritize values, culture, and employee experiences early on. [06:32] Small businesses can start with free resources, build values, diversify, ensure recruiting alignment with values, and document processes. [10:39] Failing to set HR foundations can lead to missed goals, stress, and operational challenges as a company grows. [14:19] Early-stage founders should focus on defining mission, vision, values, compliance, and hiring practices to set a strong foundation. [18:30] In mid-growth stages, onboarding, feedback surveys, and performance reviews become crucial for organizational stability and alignment. [22:23] Reviewing roles and responsibilities is crucial as teams grow to avoid confusion. [24:13] Data tracking and time blocking can help small teams prioritize hiring needs. [27:02] Bringing fun into HR can be done through weekly check-ins, shoutouts, and celebrating good work. [30:33] Remember to lean on your community for support and guidance in your HR journey.

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with Founder and Managing Partner at Misfit Ventures, Mandy Potter. Mandy has always danced to the beat of her own drum and is now on a mission to invest in others who do the same. With over 15 years of experience building and scaling VC-backed startups, raising millions in funding, growing companies to tens of millions in revenue, and even selling one, she’s now channelling her energy into shaping the future and ensuring it's a playground of possibility for generations to come. Watch on YouTube --- ► Virtual Guru $200 promotion Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: TheMisfits.vc Mandy Potter on LinkedIn --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [00:02] Mandy Potter started honing her entrepreneurial skills at a young age, setting the foundation for her career. [01:40] Being taken seriously as a young queer woman entrepreneur in Silicon Valley posed challenges, but Mandy turned her uniqueness into a strength to attract curiosity and opportunities. [09:31] Mandy highlights the pros and cons of being VC-backed, such as dilution, loss of autonomy, and pressure for early exits. [13:59] Mandy's venture into Misfit Ventures aims to prove queer investability and create a significant impact in the LGBTQ+ community through VC funding. [17:47] Mandy emphasizes the importance of investing in underrepresented founders and communities, showcasing her commitment to creating change and advocating for diversity in entrepreneurship.

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with Managing Director & Wealth Management Advisor with Warrioress Wealth, Sarah Tinkler. Sarah is the first financial planning business within Northwestern Mutual history to be NGLCC LGBTBE certified, & she & her fiancée Renata are the only 2 openly LGBTQ+ directors within Northwestern Mutual. With almost 18 years of experience within the industry, Sarah is passionate about helping change what wealth looks like. Her motto is “Good things happen when queer folks have more money!” Watch on YouTube --- Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: warrioresswealth.com Sarah on LinkedIn Warrioress Wealth on Instagram --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [00:02] Queer individuals may approach financial planning with caution and awareness due to past heteronormative experiences. [03:00] LGBTQ+ individuals often start planning and saving for the future later in life. [08:32] Financial planning for polyamorous relationships requires unique principles and agreements. [14:35] Start financial planning early when setting up a business to avoid future pitfalls. [19:14] Not setting up a retirement plan early in entrepreneurship can lead to long-term financial struggles. [23:10] Planning for business succession is crucial for passing on or inheriting a business. [23:39] Different business exit strategies like negotiation, equity grants, and equity sale are options for business owners and buyers. [24:48] Building a solid balance sheet with assets beyond cash savings is key for financing opportunities. [25:16] Options like SBA grants, business loans, instalment plans, and internal business transfer exist for buying businesses. [28:02] Acquiring an existing business through owner financing is a viable entrepreneurship option. [29:39] Approaching business owners about their exit strategy can open doors for future business opportunities. [32:48] Precise financial and estate planning is essential for for LGBTQ+ folks for protection of their wishes.

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with Founder and CEO of Virtual Gurus, Bobbie Racette. Bobbie is a Cree-Metis 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneur with an unmatched ability to drive change and empower historically underrepresented communities through equitable remote work opportunities. Her passion has created a community of diverse talents where "no" is not an option. Virtual Gurus is North America’s Largest Talent-place platform that harnesses the power of machine learning to match freelancers with businesses of all sizes. Bobbie was named Indigenous Entrepreneur of the Year 2022, EY Entrepreneur of the Year finalist 2023, and has been bestowed the Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year award by the University of Victoria’s Gustavson School of Business 2023. She is also the inaugural Chair of the Board of Directors for the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation and a board member of the Telus Future Friendly Foundation. I’d like to acknowledge that this episode was recorded on the traditional territory of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples and is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. We Honour the nations who have called Toronto home and encourage you to learn more with the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation at NCTR.ca. Watch on YouTube --- ► Go to TheVirtualGurus.com/VIP to claim your $200 offer Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: TheVirtualGurus.com Bobbie on LinkedIn Bobbie on Instagram --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [00:02:57] Bobbie Racette discusses leveraging her identity as an Indigenous, queer woman to build Virtual Gurus, using her unique perspective to drive success despite initial reluctance. [00:03:23] Initially, Racette shied away from her identity but embraced it after realizing the importance of representation, leading to significant company growth. [00:06:27] Racette shares her lifelong struggle with confidence, highlighting a pivotal moment where she took control of her company back from a hired CEO, boosting her self-belief. [00:08:10] Facing rejection from 170 investors, Racette decided to embrace her full identity in business, which became a turning point for Virtual Gurus. [00:11:37] Racette finds motivation from the stories of her virtual assistants, including a trans woman who found acceptance and success through Virtual Gurus. [00:16:38] She emphasizes the importance of mental health, work-life balance, and creating a healthy work environment, sharing her own journey of weight loss and balance. [00:16:38] Racette credits her company’s success to a dedicated and driven team, highlighting key hires that contributed to the company's growth and strategic planning. [00:10:19] She discusses the power of vulnerability in leadership, sharing that being open about her story helped attract a supportive community and inspired others. [00:21:26] Racette highlights the importance of mentorship and the support she received from programs like EY Winning Woman and the International Women's Fellowship. [00:23:54] Virtual Gurus is preparing for a Series B funding round, with Racette focusing on ensuring the company’s metrics tell a strong growth story before fully launching the round.

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with DEI consultant, Geffrye Parsons. in 2022, Geff retired from a 35-year front office executive career in financial services to set up his own Diversity, Equity & Inclusion consulting practice, The Inclusion Imperative. Formerly based in the UK and now living in Canada, Geff has received multiple decorations for his work around LGBTQ+ inclusion, including a long-standing chair of the LGBTQ+ employee resource group at his former employer, in which capacity he led it both to winning the Business Equality award at the annual PinkNews Awards, and to #1 in the annual Stonewall rankings – making it officially the most LGBTQ+ friendly employer in the UK. Individually, Geff has also won the Inspirational Leader of the Year award at the annual British LGBT Awards, and been named on both The Guardian’s ‘Pride Power List’ of the 100 most influential LGBTQ+ people in the UK, and OUTstanding’s annual list of the top 100 LGBTQ+ executives globally. He now works with commercial organisations to help build leadership capabilities and harness the power of inclusion as a key strategy for individual wellbeing and organisational learning. Watch on YouTube --- ► Today’s Sponsor is OpusClip - Repurpose your video content with AI Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: TheInclusionImperative.com Geff on LinkedIn --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [02:31] LGBTQ individuals are often in DEI spaces due to familiarity with discrimination, while backlash is seen more from privileged individuals. [04:23] DEI in organizations is not just about social justice, it is essential for future business success and not pursuing it can lead to missed opportunities in the market. [07:23] Embracing DEI is crucial for future-proofing organizations, as failure to adapt can lead to being overtaken by competitors, as seen in the case of Kodak. [15:25] Companies opting out of DEI efforts face financial risks such as lawsuits, high turnover rates, unproductive staff, and lost customer base, leading to a significant opportunity cost. [17:37] US companies lose over $1 trillion per year due to lack of inclusivity, emphasizing the importance of creating psychologically safe spaces for diverse perspectives to drive innovation and problem-solving. [21:59] Strategic thinking in DEI initiatives can enhance shareholder value and brand power. [25:13] Negative impacts of DEI backlash are not as dramatic as perceived, with most CEOs prioritizing DEI initiatives. [27:16] Reframe DEI as a leadership development initiative to avoid stigma and increase effectiveness. [32:50] Align DEI initiatives with business goals, repositioning DEI as an innovation and improvement strategy in the front office. [35:13] Avoid episodic DEI efforts and focus on broader strategic changes for long-term impact. [39:29] Embracing inclusion is essential for organizations to stay relevant in a changing society and to future-proof their business.

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with the Founder and CEO of Reya Health, Dallas Barnes. Reya Health is a company founded by a birth control user for birth control users. After years of experiencing the gruelling trial and error process of trying to find a suitable contraceptive, founder and CEO Dallas Barnes set out to change the way people approach birth control. Building a birth control matching and tracking app that takes the guesswork and frustration out of the process, Reya Health aims to make your search for the right birth control more personalized, less painful, and maybe even a little fun. Dallas has spent her career focusing on impact and innovation and she sits on the board of Femtech Canada, an organization that supports women’s health innovation in Canada. She’s also the co-president for StartOut Canada, a non-profit dedicated to supporting Canadian LGBTQIA+ entrepreneurs. Dallas is a passionate and vocal reproductive rights and sexual health advocate who has spoken globally at workshops, events, and keynotes. Watch on YouTube --- ► Today’s Sponsor is Ownr - Start Your Business Today Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: ReyaHealth.ca Reya Research Recruitment Dallas Barnes on LinkedIn --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [03:06] Starting as a Non-Technical Founder: Dallas discusses how her lack of technical and medical background initially worked in her favor by driving her passion and determination to solve a personal problem. [05:33] Challenges as a Non-Technical Founder: Dallas talks about the steep learning curve and the importance of building a strong team to fill her knowledge gaps. [06:55] Lessons Learned: Dallas shares insights on the importance of understanding funding programs and being more assertive in a male-dominated industry. [08:39] Representation in the Industry: Dallas reflects on the challenges and barriers she faced as a female and LGBTQ+ founder in the medtech and health sectors. [11:33] Pitching Experiences: Dallas recounts a challenging experience pitching to a room full of male investors and how it shaped her approach to such meetings. [18:17] Building a Team with Limited Resources: Dallas explains how she assembled her team through networking, leveraging sweat equity, and finding individuals passionate about the mission. [24:12] Achievements of Reya Health: Dallas highlights the milestones Reya Health has achieved, including a 95% user satisfaction rate and the development of a new fully automated mobile app. [27:00] Future Goals: Dallas outlines the next steps for Reya Health, focusing on the upcoming app launch and expanding support to underserved communities.

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with the Founder and CEO of EqualityMD, Justin Ayars. Justin is a former healthcare trial lawyer turned serial entrepreneur. His latest endeavour, EqualityMD, is an LGBTQ+ healthcare and data analytics company that blends healthcare and technology with marketing and data science. EqualityMD is changing how the underserved LGBTQ+ community perceives and receives care by empowering each patient to become the superhero of their own healthcare story. EqualityMD Discount: equalityMD30 Join EqualityMD today for just $49/mo - you save $30/mo! Watch on YouTube --- ► Today’s Sponsor is Castos - Start Your Podcast Today! Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: EqualityMD.com Justin on LinkedIn --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [00:02:48] Justin explains that EqualityMD is a telehealth platform that connects LGBTQ+ patients with culturally competent providers, focusing on mental health, primary care, urgent care, and prescription fulfillment. [00:04:42] Justin shares his experience defending insurance companies and his desire to address the question of where LGBTQ+ people can find safe medical care. [00:09:21] Justin and Calan discuss issues such as facing discrimination, finding culturally competent providers, and the impact on patient-provider relationships. [00:12:30] Justin mentions the lack of data on LGBTQ+ health concerns and disparities and how EqualityMD aims to bridge the gap by providing data-driven insights. [00:23:17] Justin talks about how the data gathered by EqualityMD is transformed into actionable insights for healthcare entities to improve patient engagement and outcomes. [00:31:49] Justin discusses the telehealth services offered by EqualityMD, including access to mental health, primary care, urgent care, and prescription fulfillment for a monthly subscription. [00:35:21] Justin outlines EqualityMD's plans to grow over the next five years, including expanding telehealth services and potentially being acquired.

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with special guest, Gregg Brown. With a career spanning 30 years, Gregg is an internationally recognized speaker, advisor, entrepreneur, and business mentor. Gregg was part of the team that opened the first wave of Starbucks in Canada. His insights on change and the future of work have been featured in Forbes, Newsweek, Rolling Stone, and Entrepreneur, as well as on CTV’s The Social and Global News. Gregg has been mentoring entrepreneurs with Canada’s LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce (CGLCC) for many years. He believes small businesses and entrepreneurs build community and create opportunities for people to express their creativity in the world. He is the author of the #1 Amazon bestseller “Spark Action: How to Lead Change That Matters” which has just been named as one of the top business books to read in 2024 by Thinkers 360. Gregg holds a Master`s of Social Science Degree from the University of Leicester in the UK, with a focus on organizational psychology, leadership and performance and is an Associate Member of the American Psychological Association. Watch on YouTube --- ► Today’s Sponsor is Ownr - Start Your Business Today! Join the email list for news and updates --- Links mentioned in this episode: BeChangeReady.com "Spark Action: How to Lead Change That Matters" - Book 6 Things NOT to Say (And What to Say Instead!) Gregg on LinkedIn Gregg on Instagram --- Key Takeaways for quick navigation: [00:02:46] Gregg Brown discusses common pitfalls for new entrepreneurs, such as focusing too much on branding, websites, and logos instead of prioritizing revenue generation and market validation. [00:04:42] The importance of getting feedback from non-biased sources, like mentors or peers, is highlighted to help entrepreneurs refine their products or services. [00:11:31] Moving from a sales-focused mindset to one of building relationships and asking how to help potential clients can lead to better business outcomes. [00:13:08] Gregg and Calan discuss how unsolicited direct messages and sales pitches on platforms like LinkedIn can negatively impact business relationships. [00:15:46] Gregg emphasizes the importance of building agility and adaptability in organizations to navigate changes brought on by AI and the future of work. [00:18:23] While AI can be helpful for outlining and generating content, it's essential to maintain a unique voice and critical thinking skills to stand out in the market. [00:25:13] Interpersonal skills such as empathetic leadership and conflict resolution are becoming increasingly important in the workplace, especially as polarization rises. [00:43:38] The conversation touches on the need for workers to relentlessly prioritize tasks and maintain work-life balance to avoid burnout and increase productivity.