The Exec Hotseat Podcast [Executive]

The Exec Hotseat Podcast | Episode 11 From Classroom to Clubhouse: How Karli Colpitts is Remixing Entrepreneurship & Community Featuring: Karli Colpitts, Founder: Tempo Collective In this high-energy episode of The Executive Hotseat, hosts Lisa Thompson and Amanda Buhse sit down with Karli Colpitts, also known as DJ K Chedda, the powerhouse behind Tempo Collective, a dynamic music entertainment company rooted in community, creativity, and joy. Karli’s journey is anything but conventional. From her early days as a choir singer and elementary school teacher to spinning funk, RnB, and soul at major festivals like Winnipeg Folk Fest, Festival du Voyageur, and Harvest Moon, she shares how she carved out a vibrant career in music, entertainment, and entrepreneurship - all while raising a family. You’ll hear how DJ K Chedda and her partner Tim created the unforgettable Wackydoodle Dance Party, how she leveraged her training at Mama Cutsworth’s DJ Academy, and why making space for joy and inclusion is central to her business. This conversation explores the powerful intersection of parenting, artistic expression, and entrepreneurship - and how Karli’s unique blend of ADHD-fueled creativity, optimism, and hustle is reshaping what it means to build a business from the heart.   🔑 Key Takeaways: Karli’s love for music began with childhood dance parties and grew into a full-fledged DJ career. She launched Tempo Collective to offer inclusive, high-quality entertainment for families, weddings, and festivals. A master of wearing many hats, Karli balances teaching, DJing, parenting, and entrepreneurship with clarity and care. Her mission includes supporting emerging DJs and fostering community through joyful, shared musical experiences. Karli’s approach is a reminder that passion, purpose, and a little bit of funk can take you farther than you ever imagined. _____ 👉 Connect with Karli! 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/karli-colpitts-86bb6122 📷 Instagram: instagram.com/therealkchedda 👉 The Tempo Collective 📷 Instagram: instagram.com/tempocollective.ca 🌐 Website: www.tempocollective.ca 👉 Wacky Doodle Dance Party 📷 Instagram: instagram.com/wackydoodledanceparty 🌐 Website: www.wackydoodle.ca _____ Brought to you by our Presenting Sponsor, RRC Polytech!  _____ 🔥 Follow & Subscribe: Follow The Exec Hotseat Podcast on Apple Podcasts | Spotify Follow on LinkedIn and Instagram to connect with us! Interested in sponsoring or partnering? DM or email us >>> exechotseat@brdagency.ca _____ Connect with your hosts! 👉 Lisa Thompson 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisabrd 📷 Instagram: instagram.com/lisathompsonbrd 👉 Brand Revival & Design Agency 🔗 BRD LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/brandrevivaldesign 📷  BRD Instagram: instagram.com/brdagency.ca 🌐 www.brdagency.ca _____ 👉 Amanda Buhse 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amanda-buhse 📷 Instagram: instagram.com/abuhse 👉 Coal and Canary 🔗 C&C LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/coal-and-canary 📷  C&C Instagram: instagram.com/coalandcanary 🌐 www.coalandcanary.com  

The Exec Hotseat Podcast | Episode 10 Building Community with Intention: Leilah Perchaluk on Curated Connections and Conscious Growth Featuring: Leilah Perchaluk, Founder, Knew House In this episode, hosts Lisa Thompson and Amanda Buhse sit down with Leilah Perchaluk, founder of Knew House - a private membership community for high-achieving women. Leilah shares her journey from archaeologist and insurance professional to entrepreneur, emphasizing how diverse life experiences led her to build Knew House with purpose and intention. From launching in Winnipeg to expanding into Toronto and Vancouver, this conversation explores the power of meaningful networks, conscious scaling, and how showing up consistently fuels both personal and professional transformation.   🔑 Key Takeaways: Leilah founded Knew House after identifying a gap in professional groups for women already established in their careers. Her journey, from anthropology and archaeology to insurance, showcases how a range of experiences can shape unique business ideas. Knew House focuses on curated, intentional networking that fosters meaningful, supportive relationships. The company’s growth strategy is rooted in thoughtful expansion and preserving its community-focused DNA. Leilah’s advice: be intentional with your network, show up consistently, and stay open to evolution. Her disciplined morning routine (starting at 4:45 a.m.) highlights the structure and mindset of successful entrepreneurs. _____ 👉 Connect with Leilah: 🔗 LinkedIn @leilah-perchaluk 📷 Instagram: @leilahperchaluk 🔗 Knew House LinkedIn: @knew-house 📷 Knew House Instagram: @knew.house 🌐 www.knew.house 📬 contact@knew.house _____ >>> Brought to you by our Presenting Sponsor, RRC Polytech!    🔥 Follow & Subscribe: Follow The Exec Hotseat Podcast on Apple Podcasts | Spotify Follow on LinkedIn and Instagram to connect with us! Interested in sponsoring or partnering? DM or email us >>> exechotseat@brdagency.ca _____   Your Hosts: 👉 Lisa Thompson 🔗 LinkedIn: @lisabrd 📷 Instagram: @lt_wpg 🔗 BRD LinkedIn: @brandrevivaldesign 📷  BRD Instagram: @brdagency.ca 🌐 www.brdagency.ca _____ 👉 Amanda Buhse 🔗 LinkedIn: @amanda-buhse 📷 Instagram: @abuhse 🔗 C&C LinkedIn: @coal-and-canary 📷  C&C Instagram: @coalandcanary 🌐 www.coalandcanary.com  

Executive Hotseat Podcast | Episode 09: Kevin Selch on operating in Winnipeg’s unique craft beer market In this episode, hosts Lisa Thompson and Amanda Buhse sit down with Kevin Selch, Founder of Little Brown Jug Brewing Company. Kevin talks about the transition from being a senior economist in the federal government to founding a local brewery in Winnipeg. Key Points:  - Kevin says he was driven by a desire to create something meaningful in Winnipeg and solve the interesting business challenge of operating in the historic Exchange District. - Starting with just one beer (1919) to build brand recognition, Keving emphasized the importance of sticking to a detailed business plan and not getting distracted by multiple product ideas. - He says the most significant challenge in business is building and maintaining team culture as the organization grows. - Kevin sees Winnipeg as a city with tremendous potential where entrepreneurs can make a real difference, with a supportive community that's willing to try and support new local businesses. - Despite the overall decline of the mainstream beer market, Kevin says craft beer is growing. Consumers are becoming more selective, preferring quality over quantity, creating opportunities for local breweries. - He believes entrepreneurship is fundamentally about problem-solving, being a generalist who can do many things adequately, and being comfortable with the possibility of failure as part of the growth process.   OUR SPONSOR A big shout-out to our 2025 presenting sponsor, RRC Polytech. Their support makes this conversation, and many more, possible!   Guest’s Links: Check out Little Brown Jug - https://www.littlebrownjug.ca > Follow Little Brown Jug on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.   Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat Podcast: > Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.  > The Exec[utive] Hotseat’s Instagram – Follow Us! >  Interested in sponsoring or partnering with the podcast? Connect with us on our website or social media to learn more about 2025 opportunities!   Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared on The Exec Hotseat Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and are for informational purposes only. Nothing shared on this podcast should be taken as professional, legal, medical, or financial advice. Listeners are encouraged to do their own research and seek qualified guidance. We are not liable for any decisions made based on this content.   Also - Lisa Thompson does not think Canada should become the 51st state :) 

In this inspiring episode, hosts Lisa Thompson (BRD | Brand Revival & Design Inc.) and Amanda Buhse (Coal & Canary) welcome Jessica Dumas - a trailblazer in public speaking, speaker coaching, and leadership development. Jessica shares her powerful journey from overcoming personal doubts and imposter syndrome to becoming the first Indigenous woman to chair a chamber of commerce. With an impressive career that spans award-winning speaking engagements, a robust coaching practice, and hosting two dynamic podcasts, Jessica delivers actionable advice that both emerging and seasoned leaders can use to elevate their communication and confidence. About Jessica Dumas: Jessica is a professional speaker, speaker coach, and the host of both Speaking Up with Jessica Dumas on NCI FM and The Confidence and Communication Podcast. Among her accolades, she is a recipient of the Manitoba 150 Women Trailblazer Nellie McLung Foundation Award, has been recognized as one of Manitoba’s top 40 under 40, and has led transformative initiatives as chair of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce. Her story, from growing up in a challenging neighborhood to taking the stage and inspiring others is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and the power of showing up even when fear looms. In This Episode, Jessica Dumas Discusses: Her Journey & Leadership:• Becoming the first Indigenous woman to chair a chamber of commerce and the lessons learned along the way. • The challenges of stepping into leadership roles and overcoming the “I don’t belong” mindset with consistent practice and courage. Public Speaking Mastery:• Techniques for transforming nervous energy into powerful, authentic presentations. • Strategies such as deep breathing, visualization, and EFT tapping to calm nerves and maintain presence on stage. • Tips to prepare for speaking engagements - knowing your default speech patterns and intentionally adjusting them to enhance clarity and engagement. Money Manifestation & Mindset:• Jessica’s unique take on money manifestation that involves trusting the process and staying committed without obsessing over numbers. • Practical exercises to shift mindset, including the importance of inner work, journaling, and replacing limiting beliefs with empowering affirmations. Networking & Connection:• The art of effective networking by focusing more on genuine questions and building connections rather than self-promotion alone. • How asking the right questions can flip the script from discomfort to meaningful engagement at events and board meetings. Mentorship and Growth:• The value of investing in yourself and learning from mentors, accessing professional coaching, and using feedback to continuously evolve. • The role that overcoming personal challenges plays in shaping authentic leadership and entrepreneurial success. Jessica’s Top Takeaways for Aspiring Leaders & Entrepreneurs: Trust Your Intuition: Follow your inner calling even when it defies conventional norms. Embrace Vulnerability: Sharing your fears and authentic self paves the way for genuine connection and growth. Leverage Professional Support: Don’t hesitate to work with experts (lawyers, accountants, therapists) to build a stable foundation for your endeavors. Guest’s Links & Podcasts: > Listen to The Confidence and Communication Podcast where Jessica dives deeper into her journey and shares actionable insights for speakers and leaders. > Check out Speaking Up with Jessica Dumas on NCI FM for more leadership and public speaking wisdom. Special Thanks to Our Sponsor:A big shout-out to our 2025 presenting sponsor, RRC Polytech. Their support makes this conversation, and many more, possible!   Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat Podcast: > Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.  > The Exec[utive] Hotseat’s Instagram – Follow Us! >  Interested in sponsoring or partnering with the podcast? Connect with us on our website or social media to learn more about 2025 opportunities!

The Executive Hotseat Podcast | Episode 5 Human-Centric Leadership: Empowering Community through Innovation, Collaboration & Heart - Insights from Loren Remillard, CEO, Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce.   In this episode, hosts Lisa Thompson and Amanda Buhse engage in a compelling conversation with Loren Remillard, President and CEO of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce. Loren shares his inspiring journey, from his roots in a family-run business to leading an organization dedicated to inclusivity, advocacy, and empowering the local community. Under Loren’s visionary leadership, the Winnipeg Chamber has evolved to prioritize human-centric approaches, champion innovation, and foster connections that strengthen businesses and the city as a whole. Join us as Loren shares invaluable insights on resilience, authentic leadership, and his aspirations for Winnipeg’s future.   Key Points: Loren’s personal story of resilience, inspired by his family’s entrepreneurial journey. The Winnipeg Chamber’s transformation into a more diverse and inclusive organization. Addressing critical business challenges such as housing and downtown revitalization. The importance of human-centric leadership: building character, empowering teams, and fostering collaboration. Loren’s vision for creating a thriving, barrier-free ecosystem for local businesses.   Guest’s Links: The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce’s Website – click here. Connect with Loren on LinkedIn.   Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat Podcast: Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. The Exec[utive] Hotseat’s Instagram – Follow Us! Connect with us on LinkedIn Interested in sponsoring or partnering with the podcast? Connect with us on our website or social media to learn more about 2025 opportunities!   We can't wait to connect with you and share more stories and talk shop! Lisa + Amanda   

The Exec Hotseat Podcast | Episode 4: Dr. Norman Silver / Dave Berkowits of QDoc In this episode, hosts Lisa Thompson and Amanda Buhse dive into an inspiring conversation with Dr. Norman Silver and Dave Berkowits, CEO + CTO, of QDoc Virtual Healthcare. Dr. Silver, a seasoned healthcare leader and innovator, shares his journey from pediatric emergency physician to entrepreneur, along side his brother in law, Dave Berkowits. Listen as they detail their journey and how they identified critical gaps in healthcare - creating QDoc to bridge them.  QDoc is a groundbreaking platform that connects Canadians to medical care through a user-friendly, virtual model, ensuring healthcare access regardless of location or socioeconomic status. Tune-in to hear about Dr. Silver’s approach to innovation, family-driven entrepreneurship, and the importance of validating ideas and pivoting when necessary. Key Points: Dr. Silver’s career transition from emergency care to entrepreneurship and healthcare technology. The unique virtual care model of QDoc, offering patients seamless access to doctors in real-time. Challenges in navigating Canada’s healthcare regulations and scaling QDoc’s services. Lessons in risk-taking, validating ideas, and prioritizing the patient experience. How technology and family collaboration play crucial roles in QDoc’s success and growth. Guest’s Links: Follow Dr. Norman Silver and QDoc via LinkedIn QDoc Virtual Healthcare – click here! Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat Podcast: Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. The Exec[utive] Hotseat’s Instagram – Follow Us! Interested in sponsoring or partnering with the podcast? Connect with us on our website or social media to learn more about 2025 opportunities!

We’re excited to welcome the queen of candles herself, Amanda Buhse, founder and CEO of Coal and Canary (and our very own co-host )!  Join me as Amanda shares her incredible story of how she went from health scare, as a graphic designer to founder/entrepreneur - crafting delightful candles with her BFF, to growing a massive product based retail business, ending up in a seat at the Emmys and the Grammy's —yes, you heard that right!  In this episode, Amanda reveals more about her booming candle business and provides invaluable business advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.   🔥HOTSEAT QUESTION🔥 Are you in Manufacturing or do you have a product based business? Discover Amanda’s top tips light up your own entrepreneurial journey! Don’t miss this engaging, real conversation with a true community leader! Tune in now on Amazon, Apple, Spotify, and iHeart to hear the full episode! 🎧✨ 👉 Website: https://exechotseatpodcast.libsyn.com/   Connect with Amanda Buhse + Coal and Canary: 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandabuhse/ 🌐 https://coalandcanary.com ____ Your Host: Lisa Thompson 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisabrd/ 🌐 https://brdagency.ca    

 We were thrilled to sit down and welcome Todd Burns, the founder and CEO of Cypher Environmental Ltd. Todd is a trailblazer in cleantech, leading the charge with innovative road management solutions that are transforming industries and improving communities worldwide. 🌍💡 With Cypher's products used in over 50 countries, Todd's impact is global—and growing! 🌱🌟 Join us as Todd shares more about his journey, inspiration, and great insights! 🔥HOTSEAT QUESTION 🔥Learn how you can incorporate sustainability into your business and make the 3 "Ps" a priority [People, Planet, Profit]. 🌎💼 💚 Don’t miss this powerful conversation with a leader who’s making the world a cleaner, greener place. Tune in now and find us on Amazon, Apple, Spotify, iHeart. 🎧✨ 👉 Website: https://exechotseatpodcast.libsyn.com/   Connect with Todd Burns + Cypher Environmental: 🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddburns81/ 🌐 https://cypherenvironmental.com ⛳️CYPHER ANNUAL CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT⛳️ >>> Join @cypher and @wildlifehaven: September 17th, 2024 for their Charity Golf Tournament: https://cypherenvironmental.com/charity-golf-tournament/ ___ Bio | Todd Burns Todd Burns is the founder and CEO of Cypher Environmental Ltd., a Winnipeg-based manufacturer of cleantech road management solutions for dust control and road construction. Used primarily in mining and by municipalities and now expanding into new industries, Cypher's environmental products have been used in over 50 countries around the world. 🌎 Todd is an outspoken advocate for the advancement of cleantech solutions and for the organizations that operate in this space. In 2021, Todd was a member of the Global Clean Technology Advisory Group, spearheaded by Hon. Mary Ng. In this capacity, Todd assessed and advised the government on growth opportunities that would promote Canadian cleantech companies on the world stage. That same year, Todd launched the Cypher Green Roads program that partners Cypher with like-minded clients to improve infrastructure for communities around the world. The program has since been recognized by Canada's Clean50 as a Top Project award winner. 🛣️🏆 #ExecHotseat #Podcast #ToddBurns #Cleantech #Sustainability #GreenInnovation #CypherEnvironmental  

Executive Hotseat Podcast | Episode 08: Derek Earl on Turning Business into Climate Action In this episode, hosts Lisa Thompson and Amanda Buhse sit down with Derek Earl, the President of Biz for Climate, to discuss how businesses can take meaningful action against climate change. With nearly 20 years of experience in ESG, corporate strategy, and economic development, Derek shares his journey from corporate leadership at KPMG Canada and the World Trade Center Winnipeg to launching a nonprofit that’s empowering businesses to be part of the climate solution. Derek highlights how Biz for Climate has grown into a movement of over 200 businesses signing a Climate Action Pledge, advocating for sustainable policies, and helping companies reduce their environmental footprint. He also dives into the challenges businesses face when adopting sustainability practices and how they can start making an impact—without feeling overwhelmed. From navigating government policies to building a network of climate-conscious companies, this episode is packed with insights for business leaders looking to align profitability with sustainability. Key Points: Derek’s career journey and how he transitioned from corporate to nonprofit. The origins of Biz for Climate and its mission. Why business owners should care about climate change—regardless of their industry. The biggest barriers companies face in going green—and how to overcome them. How Biz for Climate helps businesses take practical, impactful steps. The role of government policies and economic trends in sustainability efforts. Derek’s advice for entrepreneurs looking to launch a movement or nonprofit. Rapid-Fire Questions with Derek Earl: Favorite way to unwind? Spending time with his family. The moment he knew Biz for Climate needed to go full-time? When businesses kept showing up, eager to take action. One piece of advice for entrepreneurs starting a nonprofit? Take your time, build relationships, and don’t go it alone. Guest’s Links: Follow Derek Earl on LinkedIn and Facebook. Learn more about Biz for Climate & sign the Climate Action Pledge at bizforclimate.com.     Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat Podcast:   Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. The Exec[utive] Hotseat’s Instagram – Follow Us! Interested in sponsoring or partnering with the podcast? Connect with us on our website or social media to learn more about 2025 opportunities!  

Welcome to The Exec Hotseat Podcast, your go-to guide for business leadership. Join us for short interviews with industry leaders and CEOs as we explore the world of business and entrepreneurship, covering topics from starting a business to running a global brand. From finances to mindset, and building community, we'll dive deep into principles and practices, to help you navigate the ever-changing business landscape. With our signature Hotseat Segments, our mission is to provide actionable advice to elevate you and your business. I'm your host, Lisa Thompson, from BRD (Brand Revival & Design), a Canadian marketing agency, joined by my amazing co-host, Amanda Buhse, a Winnipeg Entrepreneur and founder of the Coal and Canary Candle Company. Together, we're excited to bring you first-class business advice from guests and entrepreneurs, here locally, in Winnipeg Manitoba, and worldwide.