Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald

Success in the tech startup world is rarely an overnight phenomenon. On this episode of the Success Leaves Clues podcast, Robin and Al sit down with James Wu, CEO of InnerSpace, to uncover the realities of building a thriving business. James shares his journey of growth, the pivotal lessons learned through entrepreneurship, and the role of Canadian values in shaping his company’s culture. He highlights the power of personal relationships in fostering a strong work environment—whether in person or remote—through meaningful initiatives like the ‘Question of the Week.’ From navigating challenges to redefining leadership, James offers insights on creating impact, embracing pivots, and leaving a lasting legacy in the industry."Challenges should be energizing." ~ James WuKey Takeaways from This Episode:Success takes time – It’s rarely an overnight journey; real success is built through years of hard work and evolution.More than financial gains – The definition of success shifts over time, encompassing purpose, impact, and growth.Embracing change – InnerSpace transformed from a sensor-based company to a data-driven platform, highlighting the power of strategic pivots.The role of Canadian values – Community and people-first leadership often outweigh aggressive growth strategies.Connection drives leadership – Strong personal relationships foster engagement, whether through workplace culture, leadership approach, or initiatives like the ‘Question of the Week.’Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

What happens when family wealth meets family dynamics? Estate planning isn’t just about assets—it’s about navigating relationships, responsibilities, and the unexpected challenges that come with managing a legacy. In this episode, hosts Robin and Al welcome Andrea Love, President and CEO at Legacy Private Trust. The conversation delves into the complexities of estate planning, the role of independent trust companies, and the importance of having professional help in managing estates. Andrea shares insights on the challenges faced by executors, the significance of family dynamics in estate administration, and the need for open communication about financial matters within families. The discussion also highlights the accessibility of trust services for individuals of varying net worth and the importance of instilling values in future generations. Andrea's personal journey into the trust business adds a unique perspective to the conversation, emphasizing the importance of legacy and planning for the future."...this idea of a simple estate, it's not a thing." ~ Andrea LoveBrought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, hosts Robin and Al sit down with Manu Varma, Head of People and Culture at SWTCH Energy, for an inspiring conversation about leveraging business as a force for good. Manu delves into his personal journey, sharing how his upbringing and values shaped his leadership approach. The discussion explores the profound impact of community engagement, the critical role businesses play in supporting newcomers, and the tangible benefits of aligning business practices with ethics, values, and sustainable development goals. Discover how Manu’s initiatives create meaningful change while driving success for his organization.Key takeaways:Purpose and Impact: The meaning of life is to discover your gift and share it, a principle businesses can apply by supporting community initiatives and empowering others.Community-Centered Strategies: Businesses should align with Sustainable Development Goals, engage all employees in community building, and prioritize ethics and values in decision-making.Empowering Change: Training programs for marginalized groups and collaborations with other businesses amplify community impact and foster inclusivity.Inspiring Leadership: Personal involvement in community efforts can inspire others and lead to meaningful connections and unexpected business benefits.Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

For this conversation, hosts Robin and Al welcome Caitlin MacGregor, CEO and co-founder of Plum. Caitlin shares her journey of creating Plum, a talent management platform that helps businesses make smarter workforce decisions while helping people build careers that match their unique strengths. Plum democratizes access to predictive data for hiring and employee development. The conversation explores the impact of generative AI on hiring practices, the importance of inclusivity in recruitment, and the future of assessments in talent management. Caitlin emphasizes the need to recognize potential beyond traditional resumes and highlights the success stories of individuals who have thrived in unexpected roles. Takeaways:Revolutionizing Hiring Practices: Generative AI, behavioural data, and predictive analytics are transforming hiring by improving accuracy and reducing bias.Inclusivity & Employee Empowerment: Inclusive hiring practices enhance retention while empowering employees to take charge of their careers and foster long-term success.Human-Centric Workplaces: The future of work calls for a focus on recognizing potential and adopting human-centred approaches to redefine success.Innovative Talent Solutions: Plum is leading the way with a vision for the next generation of work.Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this episode of the Success Leaves Clues podcast, hosts Robin and Al sit down with Melanie Scheepers, SVP of People and Culture at Coconut Software, to explore the dynamic world of HR and leadership. Melanie takes us through her inspiring career journey from psychology to HR, shedding light on the evolving role of HR in driving a people-centric workplace culture.The conversation dives deep into key topics like the power of mentorship, the importance of aligning company values with actions, and how strong leadership sets the foundation for a thriving organizational culture. Melanie shares valuable insights on dispelling misconceptions about HR, building trust through leadership partnerships, and adapting HR practices in the tech industry amidst the rise of AI.Passionate about empowering women in the workplace, Melanie also discusses her commitment to supporting working mothers and creating an environment where they can thrive both personally and professionally. "Values must be lived, not just stated." ~ Melanie ScheepersKey Takeaways: 1. Mentorship Matters: Mentorship is a key driver of career development. 2. Culture Starts at the Top: Senior leadership plays a critical role in shaping and driving organizational culture. 3. Walking the Talk: Actions must align with stated values to build trust and strengthen culture. 4. HR as a Partner: HR’s role has evolved into a strategic, human-centric partnership that supports both people and business goals. 5. Shared Responsibility for Culture: Building and sustaining a strong workplace culture is a collective effort across the organization.Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Tune in as hosts Robin and Al sit down with Allison Sandmeyer-Graves, the trailblazing CEO of Canadian Women & Sport. Alison takes us on a compelling journey through her path to sports leadership, sharing candid insights into the triumphs and challenges of advancing gender equity in a traditionally male-dominated field. From breaking down systemic barriers to fostering inclusive environments, Alison’s vision and determination are paving the way for a more equitable future in sports. She offers a fresh perspective on redefining leadership success, the power of continuous learning and unlearning, and the critical role men play in championing gender equity.This episode isn’t just about sports—it’s about creating lasting impact and reshaping the future for women in Canada and beyond. Whether you're a leader, an ally, or someone passionate about inclusion, this conversation will leave you inspired and motivated to make a difference."Sport is the vehicle, but the goal is women's empowerment." ~ Alison Sandmeyer-GravesTakeaways:Empowerment through Sports: Alison’s journey reflects a commitment to justice, with sports serving as a platform for women’s empowerment and a means to challenge systemic barriers in leadership.Redefining Leadership: Success and leadership are non-linear, requiring continuous learning, unlearning, and challenging traditional norms to create inclusive environments.Building Capacity for Equity: For sports systems to fulfill their promise of equity, building organizational capacity and addressing systemic barriers are essential.Shaping the Future: The future of women’s sports is evolving, with raising boys to respect women playing a vital role in driving progress and achieving lasting change.Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Cybersecurity isn’t just a concern for big corporations—it’s a game-changer for businesses of all sizes. On this episode of the Success Leaves Clues podcast, Robin Bailey and Alan McDonald sit down with David Chernitzky, CEO and co-founder of Armour Cybersecurity, to uncover the hidden vulnerabilities many small and medium-sized businesses face. From the rise of ransomware to misconceptions about IT security versus cybersecurity, David shares valuable insights and practical steps to help organizations take control of their cyber risks. Tune in for expert advice on protecting your business and building resilience in an increasingly digital world."If you're connected, you're fair game." ~ David Chernitzky, CEO/Co-Founder at Armour CybersecurityKey Takeaways:Cybercrime affects businesses of all sizes – Small and medium enterprises are especially vulnerable but often underserved in cybersecurity.Ransomware and AI threats are rising – Cybercriminals are using advanced tools, making education and preparedness more crucial than ever.Cybersecurity is business risk management – It’s not just an IT issue but a critical part of protecting your company.Affordable solutions exist – Effective cybersecurity doesn’t have to be costly, especially with the right trusted partner.A global shortage of talent – The lack of cybersecurity professionals underscores the need for external expertise and support.Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

We kick off our fifth season of Success Leaves Clues with an inspiring conversation as hosts Robin Bailey and Al McDonald welcome Jocelyne Beaulieu, Head of People and Operations at Koru, who describes herself as "a curious senior leader who is enthusiastic about all things People, Culture, & DEI." Jocelyne shares her unique career journey, diving into the power of curiosity and the role of personal connections in shaping a thriving workplace. From navigating HR challenges to building a positive culture, she offers actionable insights for leaders. The discussion touches on the importance of mentorship, reflections on success, and how kindness leaves a lasting legacy in both professional and personal lives. It’s a conversation packed with wisdom to start the season strong!"Curiosity was just the very clear number one value." ~ Jocelyne BeaulieuKey Takeaways:Curiosity and Connections: Curiosity and building meaningful connections are essential drivers of personal and professional growth.Empathy and Kindness in Leadership: Empathy, kindness, and creating safe spaces are vital for navigating HR challenges and fostering a positive workplace culture.Living Company Values: Actively practicing company values and listening to employee feedback are crucial for shaping an authentic and thriving culture.Mentorship and Legacy: Mentorship and leading by example create a lasting legacy, defined by the impact one has on others.Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Navigating career transitions can be daunting, but it’s also a chance to find purpose and joy in the workplace. In our last episode of the season, hosts Robin & Al sit down with Marlene Carrington, Practice Lead for People and Culture Solutions at CareerJoy, to explore how HR leaders can support employees through these pivotal moments. Marlene shares her inspiring journey to finding CareerJoy, the importance of outplacement services, and how mentorship and open conversations can transform workplace culture. From tackling challenges like menopause in the workplace to the impact of supportive leadership, this episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to thrive in times of change."You don't have to climb the ladder to be a leader." ~ Marlene CarringtonKey Takeaways:Supporting Employee Well-Being: Managing stress, addressing menopause, and fostering morale during transitions are crucial for a healthy work environment.The Evolving Role of HR: CHROs play a pivotal role in providing solutions like outplacement services and treating talent as a valuable asset.The Power of Mentorship: Mentorship is a key driver of career development and meaningful work.Finding Career Fulfillment: Taking time to discover passions can lead to a rewarding career journey, as shown in Marlene’s inspiring path to CareerJoy.Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this captivating episode, hosts Robin and Al sit down with Jon Shell, Chair of Social Capital Partners, for a compelling conversation about the transformative potential of employee ownership and the stakes involved. Jon takes us on his journey from the private sector to championing public policy changes that support Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) in Canada. Together, they explore how EOTs can preserve businesses, empower employees as owners, and create a more equitable economy. Tune in to discover the benefits, challenges, and profound impact employee ownership could have on wealth distribution and economic resilience in Canada."You can't salary your way to wealth." ~ Jon ShellKey Takeaways:Economic Resilience: Employee ownership enhances job security, loyalty, and company performance, particularly during economic downturns.Public Policy and Wealth Distribution: Policy initiatives, like those supported by the Canadian Employee Ownership Coalition, are key to broadening access to wealth and fostering economic change.Succession Planning with EOTs: Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) offer a tax-advantaged, sustainable succession option for business owners, with the first $10 million in capital gains being tax-free in Canada.Ideal Candidates and Growing Interest: Stable, mature companies with strong cash flow are well-suited for EOTs, reflecting the growing interest in employee ownership across Canada.Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

This conversation is packed with wisdom for leaders navigating transformation and growth. Ghassan Halazon, founder and CEO of Emerge Commerce, joins the Success Leaves Clues podcast to share his journey through the evolving e-commerce landscape post-pandemic. He offers candid insights on navigating challenges, building mental resilience, and how Emerge evolved from a diversified portfolio to a sharper focus with Emerge 2.0. Ghassan delves into the importance of brand loyalty, customer relationships, and creating a 'sticky' experience to drive growth. He also explores his strategic approach to M&A versus organic growth, emphasizing synergy in acquisitions and the power of community. Through lessons learned, he highlights the value of seeing opportunities in challenges, nurturing talent, and the deep satisfaction of helping others succeed. "I see opportunities, not problems." ~ Ghassan HalazonKey Takeaways:Evolving E-commerce Landscape: The dynamic nature of e-commerce demands adaptability, resilience, and a focus on building strong brands and strategic assets for growth.Leadership and Well-Being: Mental health, physical fitness, and maintaining a long-term perspective are vital for leaders to sustain performance and navigate challenges.Strategic Growth and Risk Management: Emerge 2.0 emphasizes fewer, larger opportunities, effective risk management, and strategic decision-making for navigating debt and volatile markets.The Power of Community and Relationships: Community, brand loyalty, and strong networks are springboards for new opportunities and customer retention.Nurturing Talent and Learning from Challenges: Investing in talent, fostering employee success, and seeing crises as opportunities to learn and grow are critical components of lasting success.Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

From innovative strategies to building trust and accountability in the insurance industry, Jonathan DiPasquale, President of Instant Risk Coverage, shares powerful insights on leadership, the significance of mental health and work-life balance, and creating a seamless user experience. Listen in to discover the innovative approaches taken to adapt and thrive and the importance of building trust and accountability in the insurance industry. Hosts Robin and Al also uncover how Jonathan is shaping the future of insurance while leaving a lasting impact on the Canadian economy."Don't waste a good crisis." ~ Jonathon DiPasqualeTakeaways: Adaptation and Innovation: Rapid adaptation and innovation during challenges, like COVID, can strengthen a business.Trust and Accountability: Transparency and accountability are key to building loyalty and strong client relationships.Employee and Mental Well-Being: Investing in employee growth and prioritizing mental health drive retention, productivity, and success.Customer Experience and Culture: A seamless user experience and a strong company culture are essential for long-term success.Leadership and Growth: Learning from mistakes and fostering homegrown businesses can help leaders and the Canadian economy thrive.Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this episode, hosts Robin and Al are joined by Blayne Kumar, a visionary entrepreneur reshaping the immigration sector. He is the founder & CEO of Bright Immigration, a full-service Canadian immigration firm that emphasizes honest, client-focused and intelligent service. Blaine shares his inspiring journey into the world of immigration, fueled by a deep commitment to helping others navigate the challenges of relocating to Canada and building new opportunities for a brighter future.The conversation delves into the challenges faced by immigrants, the ethical considerations in the industry, and the role of technology in improving immigration processes. Blayne emphasizes the importance of managing stress in a high-pressure environment and offers advice for aspiring professionals in the field. The episode concludes with a discussion on the future of immigration in Canada and the impact of technology on the industry.Takeaways:Challenges in Immigration: The immigration sector faces issues like deception, miscommunication, and the high stress faced by consultants managing vulnerable clients.Ethical Practices and Technology: He emphasizes the need for integrity in the industry while acknowledging the risks and solutions technology can bring.Personal Growth and Advice: Blayne manages stress through spirituality and advises aspiring professionals to focus on passion over financial gain.Vision for the Future: Through his charity, Brighter Together, Blayne is working to create a healthier immigration system while advocating for better integration processes in Canada.Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

What does it take to build a thriving workplace in today's ever-evolving business landscape? In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, hosts Robin and Al sit down with Jav Saeidi, HR Director at CTM Biomedical, to uncover the answer.Join us as we explore Jav's inspiring career journey, the pivotal role of HR in driving business strategy, and the art of building strong communities within organizations. From navigating generational differences to spotting trends reshaping workforce dynamics, Jav delivers invaluable insights—including when it’s time to bring HR into the mix. This is more than a conversation about work—it's a deep dive into what success looks like, both personally and professionally. Don’t miss this insightful episode!"The earlier you bring HR in, the better." ~ Jav SaeidiTakeawaysHR as a Strategic Partner: The role of HR has evolved beyond administration, becoming essential in shaping business strategy and driving better outcomes through people-focused initiatives.The Power of Community and Culture: Building strong communities and fostering a positive workplace culture enhances engagement, satisfaction, and retention across all levels of an organization.Adapting to a Changing Workforce: Emerging generations bring new expectations, emphasizing the importance of work-life balance and aligning workplace values with personal aspirations.Insights for Growth: Tools like HR metrics and exit interviews provide critical feedback for measuring success and identifying areas for improvement.Personal and Professional Growth: Success is about striving to be the best version of oneself, often influenced by personal experiences, which shape perspectives on leadership and resilience.Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this episode of the Success Leaves Clues podcast, Robin and Al welcome Brendan Taylor, President of Mavericks VFX, a Toronto-based visual effects studio. Brendan takes us through his unexpected leap into entrepreneurship and the creative mindset that has driven his success in the visual effects industry. He opens up about the bold risks and challenges of scaling a business, highlighting the critical role of strong processes and a supportive network. Brendan also redefines what success truly means, shifting the focus from traditional accolades to the impact of a positive workplace culture and the importance of building a team that feels valued and inspired."Take the information, leave the emotion." ~ Brendan TaylorTakeaways:Embrace Risk and Creativity: Taking risks and navigating the messy creative process are essential for growth and innovation in any business.Resilience and Support: Success requires resilience, stepping out of comfort zones, and surrounding yourself with a supportive network.Empowering Workplace Culture: A strong, nurturing culture is built through clear direction, employee feedback, and connecting staff to the larger purpose of their work.Long-Term Vision and Legacy: Fostering innovation, tracking employee satisfaction, and aiming to be the best employer are key steps in building a lasting legacy in the industry.Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Hosts Robin and Al welcome Ryan Oliver, CEO of Ampere, for a thought-provoking conversation on breaking barriers in education. From empowering rural and Indigenous communities to redefining what’s possible, Ampere’s unique programs blend technology, art, and play to help people of all ages build vital STEAM skills. Ryan shares the innovative strategies behind their mission and the impact they’re making by unlocking new opportunities through creativity and hands-on learning.The discussion also highlights the importance of adapting educational strategies to meet community needs, the collaborative nature of their work, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures."The very first thing you do whenever you're dealing with any underserved populations or equity-deserving groups is listen." ~ Ryan OliverKey Takeaways:Inclusive, Community-Driven Education: STEAM education integrates arts into STEM, focusing on inclusivity and tailoring strategies based on community needs and feedback.Collaboration and Listening: Successful educational initiatives rely on strong collaboration, active listening, and building good relationships with communities.Growth Through Resilience: Embracing failure as part of the learning process is essential for growth and innovation in education.Sustainable, Impactful Approach: Long-term success requires a forward-thinking mindset, community buy-in, and applying a business approach to nonprofit operations.Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this episode of the Success Leaves Clues podcast, hosts Robin and Al engage in a fascinating conversation with Subhi Alsayed, the visionary Founder and CEO of Kulture Rebellion—a company that merges science and craft to reinvent social drinks. Subhi shares his transformative journey from a corporate career in engineering and construction to creating a gut-friendly beverage, Brücha©, that leverages fermentation technology and redefines an industry. He discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of personal health, and how AI is integrated into their production processes. "I was tired of being told that things can't be done differently." ~ Subhi AlsayedTakeaways: Path to Sustainability: Subhi’s journey from engineering and construction sparked his commitment to sustainability, leading to the founding of Kulture Rebellion.Innovation in Healthier Alternatives: Kulture Rebellion uses fermentation technology to create healthier social drinks, emphasizing community and connection through food and drinks.Entrepreneurial Resilience: Subhi highlights the challenges of entrepreneurship, where self-doubt and resilience play key roles, alongside trusting one’s instincts.Personal Definition of Success: For Subhi, success is deeply personal, defined by fulfillment and family time.Empowering Change: Subhi believes in the power of change at any stage in life and aims to make fermentation accessible for all.Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on leadership that goes beyond business as usual. Hosts Robin and Al sit down with Cerys Goodall, COO of Vetster, to explore her bold career journey across industries and her refreshing insights on success, bravery, and the art of building an intentional company culture. Cerys shares how taking risks, fostering empathy, and embedding values into everyday practices can transform both personal growth and organizational integrity. The conversation emphasizes the importance of being curious and resilient in navigating career challenges, the necessity of intentional company culture, and how core values should guide business decisions. Cerys also highlights the future of telemedicine for pets and her commitment to community service and pay equity, advocating for early financial success for women in tech."Failure is just another step in your journey." ~ Cerys GoodallKey TakeawaysEmbrace Bravery and Learning: Success comes from being brave, trying new things, and embracing failures as steps in growth.Values-Driven Culture: Intentional culture-building and embedding core values into everyday practices strengthen integrity, especially during challenging times.Empathy and Trust: Building empathy and mutual respect are foundational for understanding customer needs and fostering strong business relationships.Inclusivity and Equity: Safe spaces, pay equity, and support for women in tech and underserved communities are vital for inclusivity and success.Adaptability in Leadership: Versatility, curiosity, and resilience are essential in tech careers, helping leaders navigate dynamic environments like telemedicine and evolving workplace dynamics.Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Ready to rethink the future of work? Join hosts Robin and Al for a compelling conversation with Jodi Kovitz, author, founder (#movethedial), and CEO of HRPA, on the shifting landscape of HR leadership. From redefining empathetic leadership and securing a strategic seat at the table to tackling burnout and leveraging AI, this episode explores what it takes to build inclusive, thriving workplaces that drive success and national prosperity."Empathy is about humanity." ~ Jodi KovitzTakeaways:Evolving HR Leadership: Modern HR leaders must adapt to new challenges and actively shape business strategy, using AI to enhance, not replace, human work.Empathy and Communication: Empathetic leadership and clear communication are crucial for building trust, connection, and a supportive work environment.Employee Well-being and Flexibility: Preventing burnout requires proactive support and flexible work arrangements to maintain a healthy and engaged workforce.Inclusive and Engaging Cultures: Inclusive cultures drive employee engagement, retention, and foster a connected workplace.Development and Generational Understanding: Investing in employee development and understanding generational differences can significantly improve workplace dynamics and overall success.Interested in attending the “More Than Human: Passion driven, People Focused” HRPA Summit 2024? Go to this link and use discount code ARIA25 for virtual attendance.Details of the conference can be found here: HRPA Summit 2024 Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this episode of the Success Leaves Clues podcast, hosts Robin and Al dive into a captivating conversation with AJ Tibando, a dynamic entrepreneur and forward-thinking innovator who’s transforming the people she works with and redefining success. They discuss the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, the importance of empathetic leadership, and the challenges of building connections in a hybrid work environment. AJ shares insights from her career journey, emphasizing the significance of being seen and heard in the workplace, and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. The conversation highlights the importance of impact-driven initiatives and the role of mentorship in shaping future leaders."You can't always control if you're going to be successful, but you can't be afraid to try or you'll never find out." ~ AJ TibandoTakeaways1. Adaptability & Resilience: Embrace change and learn from failure to achieve success. 2. Empathetic Leadership: Leadership requires a human element; people want to feel valued.3. Proactive Engagement: Encourage employees to take the initiative to be seen and heard.4. Connection & Communication: Building strong in-person and remote relationships fosters open communication.5. Customer & Impact Focus: Align with customer needs and pursue initiatives that drive meaningful impact.Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group