Stephane O’Reilly, Director of Entrepreneurship at the SK Startup Institute under SREDA, chats with host Carlee Snow about various topics related to entrepreneurship. Their conversation delves into a how-to guide for aspiring or new entrepreneurs, offering valuable insights on adapting strategies to the evolving entrepreneurial landscape. Stephane highlights the unique advantages of Saskatchewan's entrepreneurial ecosystem and provides a comprehensive guide to successful networking. Additionally, they discuss the importance of supporting economic growth within the province and the necessity of acknowledging and accepting failures as signs of redirection.

Stephane is a seasoned expert in growing entrepreneurial talent and fostering economic growth. With a diverse background spanning the music industry, event management, and marketing, Stephane brings a unique and creative perspective to the entrepreneurial landscape.

Since joining SREDA in December 2018, Stephane has held several roles, progressively advancing from Entrepreneurship Specialist to Bilingual Advisor, Manager of Programs and Partnerships, and now Director of Entrepreneurship at the SK Startup Institute. His journey at SREDA has been marked by a relentless commitment to supporting aspiring entrepreneurs and small businesses.

In his current role, Stephane assists in making the SK Startup Institute a go-to center of entrepreneurial support across Saskatchewan and Canada. His expertise encompasses business startups, market research, funding options, business setup guidance, business planning, and marketing strategies. Stephane’s skills in creative thinking, idea development, and exceptional customer service are instrumental in helping entrepreneurs turn their visions into reality.

Stephane is particularly passionate about adapting strategies to the evolving entrepreneurial landscape, leveraging the unique advantages of Saskatchewan's entrepreneurial ecosystem, and guiding individuals through successful networking and accepting failures as opportunities for growth and redirection.

Beyond his professional achievements, Stephane is an avid music lover. If given the chance to deliver a TED Talk, it would be titled “The Power of Music,” exploring how music influences culture and lives. Outside of work, he enjoys playing, making, and listening to music, participating in sports, and engaging in any activity that allows him to flex his creative muscles.

Through his dedication and expertise, Stephane helps make an impact on Saskatchewan's economic development, empowering entrepreneurs to build thriving businesses and contribute to the province's growth.

Stephane holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Marketing from the Edwards School of Business at the University of Saskatchewan.

Show Notes:

Connect with Stephane and learn more about his work:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaneoreilly/

SK Startup Institute: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sk-startup-institute/

SREDA: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sreda-sk/

Connect with The After Business School Special

Instagram: @afterbusinesspodcast

Join the community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14250411/

Stay in the know: http://eepurl.com/io8Z6A

This podcast is in partnership with the Edwards School of Business, University of Saskatchewan.

Spencer Krieger, Director of Sales at Vendasta, chats with host Carlee Snow about all things:

• The parallels between coaching a football team and leading a sales team
• How an athletic background shapes his work ethic and leadership
• This importance of grit when working in sales
• Running a company like a sports team
• Building highly competitive, high performing teams

Spencer Krieger is a dynamic force in the world of sales, currently serving as the Director of Sales at Vendasta, a leading digital marketing platform. With over five years of dedicated service to the company, Spencer has continually showcased his ability to drive new business growth and revenue generation, playing a pivotal role in Vendasta's remarkable $100 million in annual recurring revenue.

At Vendasta, Spencer leads a team of 20 Sales Development and Account Executives with a focus on developing and executing innovative sales strategies. His approach is marked by a blend of strategic thinking, analytical acumen, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Spencer is deeply passionate about mentoring and developing his team members, fostering an environment where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential.

Drawing on his background in athletics, including his role as Assistant Football Coach at Holy Cross High School and Director of the Huskie Football Alumni Association at the University of Saskatchewan, Spencer understands the importance of teamwork, grit, and leadership. He sees parallels between coaching a football team and leading a sales team, emphasizing the value of competitive spirit and determination in achieving success.

With a keen eye for market trends and a commitment to client satisfaction, Spencer excels in building highly competitive, high-performing teams. His leadership extends beyond the boardroom, as he can often be found cheering on his favorite sports teams, including the Dallas Cowboys, Florida Gators, and Toronto Maple Leafs.

Throughout his career, Spencer has demonstrated a proven track record of delivering
exceptional results and driving success at every level. Whether on the field or in the sales arena, he is a strategic thinker, a dedicated mentor, and a true champion of excellence.

Show Notes:

Connect with Spencer and learn more about his work:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerkrieger/

Vendasta: http://www.vendasta.com/

Connect with The After Business School Special

Instagram: @afterbusinesspodcast

Join the community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14250411/

Stay in the know: http://eepurl.com/io8Z6A

This podcast is in partnership with the Edwards School of Business, University of Saskatchewan.

Jade Gulash, Marketing Director at KPMG, chats with host Carlee Snow about all things:

· The unpredictability of consulting where each day feels like a new job

· Why working in marketing is like trying to solve the puzzles in an escape room

· Collaborating across regional, national, and specialized teams

· How to host large, multi-day events that deliver life changing results

· Entrepreneurship and the impact of helping local businesses grow

Jade Gulash is a dynamic Marketing Director at KPMG and has carved a niche for herself as a versatile leader adept at navigating the unpredictable terrain of consulting.

In her current role as Marketing Director at KPMG Canada's Regions West division, Jade leads marketing and communications initiatives, driving growth and innovation across Western Canada. Leading a team of talented professionals, she champions data-driven, account-based strategies that yield tangible results. Her mantra? Every day feels like a new job in the world of consulting, where adaptability reigns supreme.

Jade's journey in the field of marketing resembles a thrilling escape room adventure, where each challenge brings forth opportunities for creative problem-solving. From establishing the Marketing & Communications department at Saskatoon Co-operative Association Ltd amidst a whirlwind of organizational changes to weathering the storm of a global pandemic, Jade thrives on turning obstacles into triumphs.

With an unwavering focus on collaboration, Jade is a master at bridging the gap between regional, national, and specialized teams. Her expertise in hosting large-scale, multi-day events transcends mere logistics; she orchestrates experiences that leave a lasting impact, transforming lives and businesses alike.

As a seasoned entrepreneur, she understands the transformative potential of nurturing local businesses and driving economic growth from the grassroots level.

A lifelong learner and natural leader, Jade's journey showcases diverse experiences that have shaped her into an inspiration in the marketing world. Her mantra echoes in every facet of her work: "Marketing success is tightly tied to employee engagement and workplace culture."

Jade Gulash is a professional connector, a catalyst for change, and a visionary leader shaping the future of marketing one innovative strategy at a time.

Show Notes:

Connect with Jade and learn more about her work:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jadegulash/

KPMG: https://kpmg.com

Connect with The After Business School Special

Instagram: @afterbusinesspodcast

Join the community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14250411/

Stay in the know: http://eepurl.com/io8Z6A

This podcast is in partnership with the Edwards School of Business, University of Saskatchewan.

Andrea Hansen, President of Sutton Benefits and Planning, chats with host Carlee Snow about all things:

• Navigating business partnerships with a spouse
• The transformative power of mentorship and strategies for finding mentors
• Personalizing leadership and communication styles for each colleague or client
• Leveraging MBTI certification to manage workplace culture and dynamics
• Goal setting practices that pave the way for success
• The importance of future planning and embracing uncertainty in career and personal life

Andrea Hansen is a distinguished figure in the field of benefits and pension planning. She is an educator, writer, speaker, and benefits expert. Andrea is the President of Sutton Benefits & Pension, and in this role, she extends her expertise to support successful employers in optimizing their group benefits and pension plans, ensuring maximal value and results.

Recognized for her outstanding contributions to the community and industry alike, Andrea has been featured in prestigious publications such as HR Saskatchewan, PotashWorks, and The Business Advisor magazines. Her insights and thought leadership have earned her accolades including the Kent Smith-Windsor Leadership Award, the ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award, and the SYPE Young Professional of the Year Award. Andrea has also been honored as a two-time nominee for the YWCA Women of Distinction award, underlining her commitment to empowering women in business.

Andrea holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree with Distinction from the University of Saskatchewan. Her dedication to professional development is reflected in her specialty designations, including Group Benefits Associate and Certified Financial Planner®. Andrea's pursuit of excellence extends to acquiring additional certifications, such as the Total Rewards Certificate from the International Foundation of Employee Benefit Plans (IFEBP), the Workplace Mental Health Leadership™ certificate from Queen’s University, and the 4 Seasons of Reconciliation certificate from First Nations University of Canada.

With a steadfast commitment to excellence, community empowerment, and client advocacy, Andrea continues to leave an indelible mark on the landscape of benefits and pension planning, embodying leadership and entrepreneurship.

Show Notes:

Connect with Andrea and learn more about her work:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-hansen

Sutton Benefits & Pension: https://suttonplanning.ca/

Connect with The After Business School Special

Instagram: @afterbusinesspodcast

Join the community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14250411/

Stay in the know: http://eepurl.com/io8Z6A

This podcast is in partnership with the Edwards School of Business, University of Saskatchewan.

Stacey Sikorski, Mid-Market/Enterprise Sales at Incentivio, chats with host Carlee Snow about all things:

• Turning early career hospitality and customer service experience into industry expertise
• Growing food and beverage focused tech ventures through the startup and scaling phases
• The concept of "giving away your Legos" during a company's growth phase
• Asserting leadership without "bulldozing"
• Direct and transparent approach to sales to build meaningful relationships

Stacey Sikorski is a seasoned professional in the realm of Mid-Market/Enterprise Sales, currently lending her expertise to Incentivio. With a diverse background rooted in early career experiences in the hospitality and customer service industry, Stacey has transformed her journey into a remarkable career marked by significant achievements and contributions.

As the Senior Mid-Market/Enterprise Account Executive at Incentivio, Stacey plays a pivotal role in driving success in the restaurant industry. Her passion for building and scaling food and beverage-focused tech ventures is evident as she navigates the startup and scaling phases, contributing not only to revenue growth but also to the development of team infrastructure.

Boasting proven expertise in B2B sales, partnerships, leadership, customer relations, and marketing, Stacey has specialized experience in building early-stage SaaS team infrastructure. Her dedication to fostering dynamic relationship management and solving problems has strengthened restaurant brands throughout her career.

Stacey's illustrious career includes a notable 7.5-year stint at 7shifts: Team Management for Restaurants, where she served in various roles, culminating in her position as Mid-Market Sales, Franchise Lead. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in pitching for and building the Mid Market Franchise team, growing it to four account executives. Stacey's leadership extended to building strategies, processes, playbooks, and best practices, all contributing to the team's success in providing consistent value to franchised restaurant brands.

Throughout her career journey, Stacey has consistently demonstrated her commitment to individual and team growth. From managing post-sales teams to overseeing large restaurant accounts and leading sales operations, her impact has been felt at every stage.

As Stacey embarks on a new adventure at Incentivio, her dedication to building and supporting teams, combined with her energetic and strategic collaboration, positions her as a driving force in the industry. With a focus on mid-market sales and a passion for guest engagement in hospitality, Stacey Sikorski continues to leave an indelible mark on the dynamic landscape of restaurant technology and enterprise sales.

Show Notes:

Connect with Stacey and learn more about her work:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-sikorski

Incentivio: http://www.incentivio.com

Connect with The After Business School Special

Instagram: @afterbusinesspodcast

Join the community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14250411/

Stay in the know: http://eepurl.com/io8Z6A

This podcast is in partnership with the Edwards School of Business, University of Saskatchewan.

Jay Brown, Co-Founder and Origination & Business Development of Pressure Corp, chats with host Carlee Snow about all things:

· Investing in clean energy and Pressure Corp’s mission

· Entrepreneurship and the “perceived risk” and benefits

· The dichotomy of passion and profession

· His experience starting the resource platform ‘SaskHiker’

· Utilization of data in marketing strategies

As the Co-Founder and Origination & Business Development lead at Pressure Corp, Jay Brown is a dynamic entrepreneur transforming industrial waste pressure into clean energy. With a commitment to innovative solutions and sustainable practices, Jay has been at the forefront of Pressure Corp's mission to support decarbonization efforts in industrial facilities.

Jay's diverse background in marketing, branding, project management, and sales has been instrumental in his role at Pressure Corp, where he thrives when working with teams to develop inventive solutions to complex business problems. His track record includes leading strategies that generated over $350 million in sales and successfully directing policy development in public relations and government relations.

At the core of Jay's approach is a dedication to continuous learning, a penchant for overcoming challenges, and a belief in the power of skill development. He describes himself as someone who finds it hard to sit still, always seeking a better way while emphasizing the importance of knowing the direction before making changes.

Before co-founding Pressure Corp, Jay showcased his marketing expertise through various roles, including as a Sales Marketing Manager at Sherwood Chevrolet and a Managing Partner at Health Conveyance. In these positions, he honed his skills in strategic communication planning, branding, and the implementation of integrated marketing strategies.

Jay worked as a Government and Public Relations Consultant at Harris Greenaway Communications Ltd. There, he played a crucial role in developing and executing strategic communications, emphasizing the integration of various media forms and leveraging research to shift perceptions.

Jay founded SaskHiker, a not-for-profit organization serving as Saskatchewan's go-to resource for hiking enthusiasts. With over 7,000 followers across social media platforms, SaskHiker has become a thriving community encouraging people to explore the province's hiking trails.

Jay Brown's journey is a testament to his ability to navigate various industries, combining business acumen with a passion for sustainability and community engagement. Jay continues to lead the charge in revolutionizing the energy landscape and contributing to a more sustainable future.

Show Notes:

Connect with Jay and learn more about his work:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaybrown2/

Pressure Corp: https://www.pressurecorp.com/

Connect with The After Business School Special

Instagram: @afterbusinesspodcast

Join the community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14250411/

Stay in the know: http://eepurl.com/io8Z6A

This podcast is in partnership with the Edwards School of Business, University of Saskatchewan.

Kenzie Bergeron, AVP Sales of Saskatchewan Blue Cross, chats with host Carlee Snow about all things:

• Being an entrepreneur-turned-Angel Investor with the organization, Start Up TNT
• How she got involved as an angel investor and tips for getting started
• The challenges of pitching to predominantly male investor groups
• Gender disparities in startup communities and the importance of diverse voices
• Alternative therapies, holistic healthcare offerings, and role of proactive healthcare measures like visits to naturopaths in shaping insurance coverage

Kenzie Bergeron is a dynamic executive leader with a diverse background spanning multiple industries including Financial Services, Insurance, Health & Wellness, and Technology. Currently serving as the Assistant Vice President of Sales at Saskatchewan Blue Cross, Kenzie brings over 15 years of experience in guiding individuals, families, and businesses towards solutions that safeguard their health, wellbeing, and financial interests.

Kenzie's journey into the realm of entrepreneurship and angel investing reflects her innovative spirit and commitment to fostering local innovation and economic growth. As the founder and CEO of 'Well'N,' a tech startup focusing on holistic healthcare offerings, she has demonstrated a keen eye for identifying promising ventures and supporting them to fruition. Her role as an Angel Investor and Ambassador with Start Up TNT further underscores her dedication to nurturing early-stage Prairie companies and empowering bold entrepreneurs.

Kenzie's accolades include the prestigious CBC Future 40 award in 2022, recognizing her as an influential figure making a positive impact in Saskatchewan's community. This honor speaks to her dedication to giving back, mentoring, and actively contributing to the betterment of the region.

In her current role at Saskatchewan Blue Cross, Kenzie is instrumental in driving sales strategies while advocating for proactive healthcare measures and alternative therapies. She is a vocal advocate for gender equality in startup communities, addressing the challenges of pitching to predominantly male investor groups, and emphasizing the importance of diverse voices in shaping inclusive and innovative business environments.

Kenzie's expertise extends beyond traditional business strategies, as she is deeply passionate about fostering creativity and innovation within organizations. Her sessions on cultivating a culture of ingenuity offer actionable insights into understanding creativity, building innovative cultures, overcoming barriers to innovation, encouraging diverse perspectives, and implementing creative processes.

Driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to making a positive impact, Kenzie Bergeron continues to inspire and empower individuals and businesses alike on their journey towards success and innovation.

Show Notes:

Connect with Kenzie and learn more about her work:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenzie-bergeron

Sask Blue Cross: https://www.sk.bluecross.ca/

Start-up TNT: https://startuptnt.com/

Connect with The After Business School Special

Instagram: @afterbusinesspodcast

Join the community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14250411/

Stay in the know: http://eepurl.com/io8Z6A

This podcast is in partnership with the Edwards School of Business, University of Saskatchewan.

Corey Michel, CEO of lmno, chats with host Carlee Snow about all things:

• Transition from working "in the business" vs. "on the business" as CEO
• Marketing consultancy and agency work
• Break stereotypes of agency life – it’s not like what you see on TV!
• lmno's 40-year history and the evolution and rebrand of the agency
• Purpose driven strategy and being a B-Corp Company

Corey Michel, CEO of lmno, leads the agency through innovation, client success, and purpose-driven strategies. With nearly two decades of experience within the marketing consultancy and advertising space, Corey has become a respected figure in marketing and advertising.

At the heart of Corey's leadership philosophy is the distinction between working "in the business" versus "on the business." As President and CEO of lmno, Corey has championed a culture of innovation and excellence, leading the agency to positive business outcomes for both new and existing clients.

Corey delves into the world of marketing consultancy and agency work, breaking stereotypes surrounding agency life. He dismantles preconceived notions shaped by popular media, revealing the real dynamics of lmno, an agency with a rich 40-year history that has undergone a transformative rebrand.

A staunch advocate for purpose-driven strategies, Corey emphasizes lmno's commitment to being a B-Corp Company. This dedication to making a positive impact extends beyond profit margins, embodying a holistic approach to business that considers environmental and social responsibility.

Corey's career trajectory within lmno reflects his dedication and growth. Starting as an Account Executive in 2006, he climbed the ranks to become the Group Account Director and eventually assumed the role of President & CEO in January 2021. Throughout his journey, Corey consistently demonstrated the ability to analyze and understand complex business problems, providing strategic solutions in branding, marketing, and communication.

In his current role, Corey oversees the success of all agency accounts, ensuring constant improvement and development of services. He keeps a keen eye on global and local trends, adapting lmno's service offerings to stay ahead of the curve.

Corey Michel is a strategic leader, a visionary, and a driving force behind lmno's success. His passion for helping clients solve business problems and his commitment to positive business outcomes are the cornerstones of his impactful leadership at lmno.

Show Notes:

Connect with Corey and learn more about his work:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreymichel/

lmno: https://www.meetlmno.com/

Connect with The After Business School Special

Instagram: @afterbusinesspodcast

Join the community: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14250411/

Stay in the know: http://eepurl.com/io8Z6A

This podcast is in partnership with the Edwards School of Business, University of Saskatchewan.