The Ampersand - Unplugged

In this season finale episode, we take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we've had during Season 3, where we dove deep into the world of ESG and its profound importance in today's business landscape. From exploring sustainability initiatives to discussing ethical investing and corporate social responsibility, it's been a season filled with eye-opening insights and inspiring conversations.Join us as we recap some of the most memorable moments from Season 3, share key takeaways, and discuss the impact these discussions have had on our perspective. We'll also express our gratitude to our amazing listeners and guests who have made this season a remarkable success - we couldn't do this without you! PS: get ready for an exciting sneak peek into Season 4 as we tease what's coming next. Thank you for being part of our podcast family, and we can't wait to continue this incredible journey with you. Stay tuned!Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

As we draw the curtains on another enlightening season of The Ampersand: Unplugged, join us for a special wrap-up episode with Christy Elliott, SVP, Sustainability, External Affairs & General Counsel at Keyera. Together, Christy and our co-hosts dive deep into the world of ESG strategy and overall business sustainability. Throughout this season, we've explored the intricacies of ESG, from its origins to its current prominence in the global financial landscape. In this final installment, we bring it all together, reflecting on the key takeaways and offering a comprehensive look at each aspect of ESG.In this episode, we discuss the interplay between these three pillars of ESG. How do environmental, social, and governance considerations intersect, and what does that mean for investors? We'll also examine the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead as ESG continues to evolve.  Join us for a great episode with a great and knowledgable person to wrap this season up with! Learn more about Keyera at https://www.keyera.com/ Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

As we begin to close this season off, we have Matt Mayer, Founder of Arete Initiative, an organization whose mission is to help people and organizations live up to their highest potential through strategy, innovation and organizational excellence. The clients and initiatives that Arete works with are driven by realizing a sustainable future for people, planet and profit, and Arete Initiative a proud certified B Corp.As we chat with Matt, discover the significance of each ESG pillar: how companies address environmental concerns, embrace social responsibility, and enhance governance structures. We'll explore why ESG matters not only for the well-being of our planet and society but also for the long-term viability of businesses.Delve into the intricate systems used in ESG strategy through learning how companies collect, analyze, and disclose ESG-related data, and how investors and stakeholders use this information to make informed decisions.Matt shares insights into best practices for integrating ESG principles into business models and we explore real-world examples of companies that have successfully implemented ESG strategies and the positive outcomes of these. To get in touch with Matt check out their website at: https://www.areteinitiative.ca/ or email at: hello@areteinitiative.ca Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

In an era marked by the pressing need for sustainable practices and environmental stewardship, the significance of Indigenous relations in the realm of ESG cannot be overstated. Join us in this enlightening episode with the Vice President, External Affairs at Pembina Pipeline Corporation, Sarah Schwann, as we delve into the profound intersection of Indigenous communities, corporate responsibility, and the energy transition. Sarah is a distinguished speaker from a leading energy transportation and midstream service company and brings invaluable insights into how forging respectful partnerships with Indigenous peoples is not only ethically imperative but also strategically integral to the successful navigation of the evolving energy landscape.As we navigate the intricate pathways of the energy transition, collaboration with Indigenous communities emerges as a cornerstone of responsible corporate conduct. Sarah sheds light on the ways in which Indigenous knowledge, cultural heritage, and land rights play an essential role in shaping environmentally conscious business practices. We explore the symbiotic relationship between Indigenous stakeholders and the broader goals of ESG. Join us to discover how fostering a harmonious coexistence with Indigenous peoples can propel the oil and gas industry toward a greener and more inclusive energy future.Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

In this eye-opening episode of our podcast, we delve deep into the realm of Environmental, Social, and Governance practices in the marketing world, with a special focus on the importance of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion within this framework. Join us as we explore how these three essential pillars are interwoven and crucial in shaping the future of responsible marketing.Our guest, Lisa Genovese, President of BottomLine, leads professionals from the marketing sectors and sheds light on the undeniable connection between ESG and marketing all while highlighting the pivotal role EDI plays in driving positive change. We learn how ESG initiatives are no longer optional but a fundamental requirement for businesses to thrive in an ever-evolving market landscape.Together, we examine the challenges and barriers faced by marketing professionals, and business owners, while implementing EDI in ESG and explore steps to overcome them. From fostering diverse talent within marketing departments, and organizations in general, to promoting inclusive campaigns and product development, Lisa provides valuable insights on cultivating a culture of equity and belonging. We uncover how ESG-focused consumers are seeking alignment with their values, and how businesses that prioritize EDI can attract a loyal and engaged customer base.Tune in to this episode as we explore the symbiotic relationship between ESG and marketing, demonstrating that ethical practices are not just a trend but a crucial aspect of sustained success in the modern business landscape. Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

In this thought-provoking episode, our co-hosts delve into the captivating realm of the legal profession and explore the pressing issue of equity, diversity, and inclusion within the Canadian legal sphere with Dr. Kellinde Wrightson, Executive Director of The Foreign-Trained Lawyers Program for the Faculty of Law at the University of Calgary. Our focus? The experiences of foreign-trained lawyers who embark on a journey to practice law in Canada. Kellinde helps us navigate the complexities and challenges faced by talented legal professionals hailing from different corners of the globe, seeking to establish their careers in a new legal landscape. Discover firsthand accounts of triumphs, setbacks, and the transformative power of fostering a truly inclusive community. Throughout the episode, we unravel the importance of equity, diversity, and inclusion in the law and its profound impact on both individual lawyers and the legal profession as a whole. We explore the barriers that foreign-trained lawyers often encounter, from navigating regulatory frameworks to cultural nuances and biases, and examine the consequential effects on access to justice and legal representation.Whether you're a law enthusiast, a foreign-trained lawyer contemplating a move to Canada, or simply intrigued by the power of diversity within the legal sphere, this episode promises to ignite thought-provoking conversations and shed light on the vital importance of embracing equity, diversity, and inclusion in the law to build a more just and inclusive society.Tune in now and embark on this enlightening journey as we shatter barriers and champion the cause of foreign-trained lawyers in Canada!Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

In this edition of The Ampersand: Unplugged, co-hosts Kiara Marika and Adam Pekarsky sit down with Sol Zia, the Executive Director of the Calgary Hotel Association. The discussion again focuses on our Season 3 topic of ESG, this time through the lens of the Tourism and Hospitality sector. While the sector has returned to form following two very difficult Covid years, the impact of ESG has forced the industry to adapt to the changing landscape and to balance the expectations of the traveller with the imperatives related to environmental sustainability. Proving yet again that ESG is all around is, regardless of industry. So, as the Calgary Stampede gets into full swing and Calgary’s hotels reach capacity, we hope you’ll enjoy this edition of the podcast.Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

In this episode we embark on a journey into the heart of the ESG framework, shining a spotlight on the crucial environmental & governance aspects. Join us as we dive deep into the intricate web of sustainability, uncovering the pivotal role it plays in shaping the future of our communities and businesses. Alan Ross, Managing Partner at one of Canada’s largest and oldest law firms, Borden Ladner Gervais LLP, is our guest. Alan shares his insights, offering a comprehensive understanding of the environmental and governance pillars within the ESG framework. We explore the challenges faced by businesses in aligning with sustainable practices and the opportunities that lie in implementing eco-friendly strategies. Tune in to this enlightening episode as we journey into the world of ESG with Alan. Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

*Disclaimer* We were having some technical difficulties with our audio on the day we recorded this episode, so please bear with us while you tune in for a really interesting conversation. We appreciate your patience!* In this edition of The Ampersand: Unplugged,  co-hosts Kiara Marika and Adam Pekarsky sit down with longtime friend of Adam’s, and of the firm, Alex MacWilliam, the longest-serving partner of the law firm Dentons’ Calgary office. In addition to some nostalgic, and at times hilarious, reminiscing about Adam’s year as Alex’s articling student 25 years ago, Alex shares several insights about ESG and how his legal practice has evolved to keep up with the changing times and how his firm, Dentons, is “walking the talk” on the subject.  Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

On this episode of The Ampersand: Unplugged, we sit down with Chad Aboud, former General Counsel and Law Firm lawyer who now focuses his immense energy and passion into helping other lawyers uncover their natural traits and skills so that they are more successful and feel happier in their careers. A gifted and articulate speaker, Chad’s passion for helping others comes through in all his work. When he sits down with one of our own ‘recovering lawyers’ (Adam) and Ampersand Unplugged co-host, Kiara, the ideas flow and the energy is contagious. Adam teaches a course at the University of Calgary Faculty of Law on many of the topics and issues Chad deals with daily, so it was difficult at times for Kiara to get a word in! But she kept us on track and on topic throughout this most enjoyable conversation about life as young professional, navigating the ecosystem of the profession, and the secrets to contentment in ones work.Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

In this episode of The Ampersand: Unplugged, our first official podcast of Season 3, we sit down with Rosa Rivero  from Responsibility Matters for a primer on all things ESG. Think of it as ESG 101, a great level-set for the season ahead where our focus will be on the emerging topic of Environment, Social, and Governance as it impacts organizations public and private, large and small, local and global. Rosa expertly walks us through some of the key definitions, oft-used acronyms, and sometimes misunderstood concepts related to ESG. By the end of the episode you will be armed with the vocabulary you’ll need to navigate the rest of season 3!Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

We are back!! In this brief teaser episode, co-hosts Adam and Kiara hint at the season to come, our new theme music debuts and the usual hilarity ensues. Tune in to find out what to expect in the season ahead!Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

On this episode of The Ampersand: Unplugged, we visit with our very own Kate Spencer for a highly enjoyable conversation about her role at our firm, how she arrived at Pekarsky & Co. after having known Adam for 25 years. We share stories about the firm, Kate’s views on equity, diversity and inclusion and have a proper conversation about Taylor Swift. As you can easily tell from the banter among Kate and our co-hosts, Kiara Marika and Adam Pekarsky, the culture at Pekarsky & Co. is, indeed, our secret sauce. We hope you enjoy this light-hearted and fun convo.Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

In this episode of The Ampersand: Unplugged, we sit down with Pekarsky & Co.’s newest hire, Shannon Leo. Shannon will be leading and building the Toronto office of Pekarsky & Co. She listened to all of our podcasts as part of her due diligence on us; now’s your chance to listen to Shannon and learn about her background, her move out of law and her decision to join our humble enterprise.  Join us, while we dive into issues such as diversity and inclusion, M&Ms or Smarties, and how we arrived at Shannon as an extroverted, wine-loving, dog-loving, chocolate preferring fan of summer. On the more serious side, we explore the correlation between leadership and empathy, the power of connection and the importance of saying “good job!”   Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

On this episode of The Ampersand: Unplugged, we were honoured to be joined by Wes Hall, Founder of the BlackNorth Initiative, Dragon and Founder of Kingsdale Advisors; and Dr. Chika Onwuekwe, Vice President, Legal, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary of Trican Well Services and ENMAX Board Member.  Join us as Wes and Chika share their very personal immigrant stories, Wes from Jamaica and Chika from Nigeria as they landed in Canada, worked hard and excelled in a country that, though imperfect, gave them unparalleled opportunity. We dive into a personal and meaningful conversation about a broad range of topics, though never straying too far from the at times uncomfortable, though entirely necessary, discussion around systemic racism and what we can all do to end it. This is a very real and honest conversation. We can all learn from Wes and Chika’s work ethic, grace, passion and humility. Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

On this episode of The Ampersand: Unplugged we sit down with Susan Reckseider, Director of Interpretation at Heritage Park and Cheryl Foggo, Canadian author, documentary film director, screenwriter and playwright. We dive into a fascinating conversation about history, generally, and black history in Alberta, specifically. Where we’ve been, where we’re headed and why it all matters. As usual, we end off with our Ask The Expert segment which hopefully you’ll find more interesting that Kiara did!  Enjoy the episode, and thanks for listening!Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

On this episode of The Ampersand: Unplugged, we sit down with Deborah Yedlin, President and CEO of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce. Deborah shares with us her views on why “silence is violence,” why you can never take no for an answer and the irrevocable gift of education. We talk about breaking the “pale, stale and male” stereotype as both a Chamber and as a city and we talk about the future of talent in Alberta. And once we source that talent, how do we then make these “digital nomads” feel welcome here. Deborah shares her optimism around silos coming down and collaboration going up, the importance of tuning out the Eeyores and looking at what’s possible rather than fixating on the obstacles. She concludes her time with us making a bold prediction for 2022 so you’ll have to stick around until the end to find out! And, as always, our co-hosts finish this episode off with an Ask The Expert Q & A! Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

On this episode of The Ampersand: Unplugged, Kiara and Adam sit down with two of Canada's most respected and oldest professional services firms and their leaders. Brian Thiessen, Managing Partner of the law firm Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt and Kent Kaufield, EY Canada's ESG Markets Leader & Chief Sustainability Officer join the Pod to talk about all things EDI. They candidly share their own journey and experiences from PEI to rural Saskatchewan and points in between and how they arrived in Calgary and are now taking a leading role in changing the narrative around EDI. Venerable law and accounting firms aren't typically associated with innovation and leading change. We expect you'll have a different viewpoint after tuning into this great conversation. And stick around after the interview for our Ask The Expert segment, too 👊Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

In this episode of The Ampersand: Unplugged, we sit down with two incredible women – Beba Svigir, CEO of the Calgary Immigrant Women’s Association and Shannon Doram, CEO of the YMCA Calgary – to unpack the very du jour and critically important topic of diversity, equity and inclusion.We discuss diversity as a state of mind. We dissect what it means to feel included versus truly belonging. We hear Beba’s view that it’s actually better, and more diverse, to work with people who don’t like her, over those who do! Shannon shares her views on creating a “web of intentionality” in our quest to create truly great and inclusive experiences.We talk about whether you should have to compromise in the name of diversity; about the two-way street that is diversity (for, you cannot be diverse without being open to learning where you are not diverse) and we explore the nuance of words – that equality and equity are different, for example. And we learn, in a remarkable twist, that Beba’s first ever full-time job upon immigrating to Calgary was given to her by none other than the YMCA.Finally, if you stick with us to the very end, we host our first Ask the Expert answering YOUR questions about all things P&Co.Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook

In this episode, co-hosts Kiara Marika and Adam Pekarsky discuss their plans for the season ahead as well as look back at the lessons learned from their inaugural season of hosting The Ampersand: Unplugged.  A candid conversation where Kiara puts her boss on the hot seat about returning to work, and the two have a funny, honest conversation about the season ahead and even sprinkle a few Easter eggs about plans at Pekarsky & Co. in 2022.  Want to stay connected with us? Follow us on social media! LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook