Shows
The She Means Business PodcastKnowing when to delegate with Erica MalbonIn this episode of the She Means Business podcast, hosts Gail and Ilana interview Erica Malbon, co-founder of Malbon Golf, a brand that is revolutionizing the golf industry by merging fashion, culture, and sport. Erica shares her unique journey as a woman in business, her experiences in starting Malbon Golf, and the challenges and successes she has faced along the way. The conversation delves into leadership lessons, the importance of creating a positive workplace culture, and the balance between work and family life and knowing when to delegate. Erica also discusses the future growth plans for Malbon Golf, including...2025-04-1529 minThe She Means Business PodcastEmpowering women in Tech & Sales with Sarah BranfmanIn this episode of The She Means Business Podcast, Sarah Branfman shares her unique career journey from being a professional ballet dancer and journalist to becoming a successful sales leader in the tech industry. She discusses her experiences at MongoDB and Databricks, the challenges of navigating a male-dominated field, the importance of mentorship, and how she has learned to embrace her authenticity and trust herself throughout her career.Key TakeawaysSarah transitioned from ballet and journalism to tech sales.She was the first enterprise salesperson at MongoDB.Feedback is essential for growth and should be embraced...2025-04-0831 minThe She Means Business PodcastLeaning into sponsorship with Andrea JanzenIn this episode of the She Means Business podcast, Andrea Jansen shares her journey from a successful marketing career to becoming a certified executive coach focused on empowering women in the construction industry. She discusses the challenges women face in leadership roles, the importance of transformational leadership, and the difference between mentorship and sponsorship. Andrea emphasizes the need for women to lean into sponsorship relationships to accelerate their careers and highlights the potential for transformational leadership to address industry challenges.Key Takeaways:Andrea transitioned from marketing to coaching after realizing her entrepreneurial spirit.She started coaching...2025-04-0133 minThe She Means Business PodcastNavigating set backs & Growing with a mission with Adelle ArcherIn this episode of the She Means Business podcast, hosts Gail Banack and Ilana Santone welcome Adelle Archer, CEO and co-founder of Eterneva, a company that creates diamonds from the ashes of loved ones. Adelle shares her personal journey of founding Eterneva, inspired by the loss of her close friend. The conversation explores the challenges of acceptance in the end-of-life industry, the importance of co-founders, and the unique experiences of female entrepreneurs. Adelle reflects on her time on Shark Tank, the emotional journey of grief, and the significance of having open conversations about death. She also offers valuable advice...2025-03-2529 minThe She Means Business PodcastNavigating workplace challenges Q & A with Gail Banack and Ilana SantoneIn this special Q&A episode of the She Means Business podcast, hosts Gail Banack and Ilana Santone tackle listener questions on navigating workplace challenges. They discuss executive presence, stepping into unfamiliar roles, and handling difficult colleagues, emphasizing perception, preparation, and adaptability. The conversation also explores strategies for dealing with undermining coworkers, managing work-life guilt, embracing career pivots, and preventing burnout through boundary-setting and self-care. With personal insights and practical advice, Gail and Ilana highlight the power of proactive communication and resilience in professional success.Key TakeawaysExecutive Presence & Career Growth2025-03-1831 minThe She Means Business PodcastMastering the Art of Coaching with Glain Roberts-McCabeIn this episode of The She Means Business podcast, Glain Roberts-McCabe shares her unique career journey and the founding of The Roundtable, an organization dedicated to helping high potential leaders navigate the complexities of modern leadership. Glain emphasizes the importance of group coaching, assessments, and self-awareness in leadership development. She also provides valuable insights on career development, particularly for those who may not have strong managerial support, and encourages young professionals to take risks and explore their strengths. In this conversation, Glain Roberts-McCabe shares insights on the dual role of managers as both leaders and co...2025-03-1119 minThe She Means Business PodcastHarnessing your energy with Fiona StevensonIn this episode of the She Means Business podcast, hosts Gail Banack and Ilana Santone welcome Fiona Stevenson, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of the Idea Suite, an innovation agency. Fiona shares her journey from studying psychology to founding her agency, emphasizing the importance of energy in business and innovation. She discusses how to maintain energy, build a culture of innovation, and the significance of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership. Fiona provides practical tips for fostering creativity and innovation within teams, highlighting that everyone has the potential to be creative. The conversation concludes with Fiona's advice to her younger self about...2025-03-0427 minThe She Means Business PodcastPerfecting your communication with Kate McKennaIn this episode of the She Means Business podcast, hosts Gail Banack and Ilana Santone welcome Kate McKenna, a Canadian Screen Award-winning producer and broadcaster. Kate shares her winding career journey from aspiring teacher to media powerhouse, discussing her experiences in various roles, including her work on CTV's The Social. The conversation delves into the importance of authenticity in media, tangible tips for effective communication, and the challenges faced by millennials in the workplace. Kate also highlights her passion project, digital mini-series - Mom Life Crisis, which addresses the complexities of motherhood and career. The episode concludes with Kate's...2025-02-2534 minThe She Means Business PodcastCultivating your personal style with Monica AweIn this episode of the She Means Business podcast, Ilana and Gail welcome Monica Awe, a seasoned fashion and lifestyle creator. Monica shares her journey from luxury retail to becoming a successful blogger and influencer, discussing the challenges and rewards of her career. She offers insights into her daily routine, the importance of planning content, and how to balance work and life as a creator. Monica also provides valuable fashion advice for women in the corporate world, emphasizing the significance of personal style and appearance. Throughout the conversation, she addresses the realities of dealing with criticism and the importance...2025-02-1826 minThe She Means Business PodcastResilience In The Face Of Challenges with Kelly PigeonKelly Pigeon, Vice President of E-commerce Platforms at Go TRG and founder of Epiphany, shares her entrepreneurial journey and the challenges she has faced. She discusses her previous ventures, including a clothing rental startup and a circular economy technology tool. She’s at it again, launching Epiphany, a company dedicated to empowering women's sexual pleasure. Kelly emphasizes the importance of resilience and learning from failure, as well as the need to surround yourself with the right people and build a strong network. Kelly Pigeon shares her entrepreneurial journey and the challenges she faced. She discusses the importance of resilience an...2025-02-1126 minThe She Means Business PodcastLeading with your values with Micheline DaviesIn this episode of the She Means Business podcast, Micheline Davies, Chief Merchant at Canadian Tire Corp., shares her extensive career journey and insights on leadership, mentorship, and the importance of people in business. She discusses her experiences in creating the Women's Leadership Network, navigating career setbacks, and the significance of understanding personal values. Micheline emphasizes the need for women to be confident, especially in male-dominated industries and reflects on the legacy she hopes to leave for future generations of women leaders.Key Takeaways:Leadership is about seeing possibilities and taking action.Creating a supportive network...2025-02-0438 minThe She Means Business PodcastCrafting a Fulfilling Career with Isabelle LandrevilleIn this episode of the She Means Business podcast, hosts Gail Banack and Ilana Santone interview Isabelle Landreville, a leading qualitative researcher and business owner of Sylvestre & Co. Isabelle shares her unique journey from her academic background to her extensive experience in qualitative research, emphasizing the importance of understanding the 'why' behind consumer behavior. She discusses her transition to business ownership, the challenges of maintaining work-life balance, and the significance of insights in shaping effective marketing strategies. Throughout the conversation, Isabelle highlights the value of qualitative research in a data-driven world and shares personal anecdotes that illustrate her passion...2025-01-2833 minThe She Means Business PodcastAdvancing in Business and Finance with Alexandra HorwoodIn this episode of the She Means Business podcast, hosts Gail Banaks and Ilana Santone welcome Alexandra Horwood, a leading Chartered Investment Manager at Richardson Wealth. Alexandra shares her journey into financial services, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy, especially for women. She discusses common financial pitfalls, the significance of open communication in relationships regarding finances, and the unique challenges women face in the wealth management industry. Alexandra also highlights the importance of early financial planning, retirement considerations, and teaching children about money management. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the necessity of wills and powers of attorney...2025-01-2134 minThe She Means Business PodcastLeading With Authenticity with Jenna KeaneJenna Keane, a partner at RTR Media, shares her journey to becoming a business owner and her insights on authentic leadership. She emphasizes the importance of empathy, kindness, and being true to oneself in leadership. The conversation covers the themes of authenticity, leadership, and career advice. Jenna Keane shares insights on the importance of authenticity in leadership, the impact of positive attitude, and the balance between career and personal life. She also discusses the guiding principle of improv, the challenges of managing inauthentic leaders, and the need for support in balancing career and family.Takeaways2025-01-1429 minThe She Means Business PodcastLeadership, Mentorship and Knowing Yourself with Kristin ShaneIn this episode of the She Means Business podcast, Kristin Shane shares her extensive career journey, highlighting her experiences in retail, the challenges faced at Target Canada, and her entrepreneurial venture with Flyfeet Running. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship, the value of teamwork, and how adversity can lead to growth. Kristin discusses her decision-making process when evaluating career opportunities and the significance of aligning with personal values. Her insights provide a roadmap for aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs. In this engaging conversation, Kristin shares her journey of self-discovery, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and values in both personal and...2025-01-0746 minThe She Means Business PodcastTaking Risks & Starting Over with Olivia Petrou - Replay EpisodeIn our last episode of season 1 and of the year, we are bringing back our first and one of our most loved and listened to episodes featuring Olivia Petrou, the founder and CEO of Olive & Fig. Olivia shares her journey of leaving her corporate job to start her luxury charcuterie and food experience brand. Growing up in a Greek household, Olivia was surrounded by food and gatherings, which inspired her love for creating beautiful and abundant charcuterie boards. She went through a difficult breakup before finding herself and starting Olive & Fig. With the support of her now...2024-12-3129 minThe She Means Business PodcastBalancing work and motherhood with Megan Anderson Part 2 - Replay EpisodeMegan Anderson, Global Client Director at Microsoft, shares her insights on balancing work and motherhood. Megan shares her experience of being hired while pregnant and the significance of a supportive company culture. She advises women to prioritize and be deliberate in crafting their home and work lives. In this conversation, Megan and Ilana discuss the challenges and choices faced by working mothers. Gail, Ilana and Megan explore the societal pressures and expectations placed on women, the importance of intentional decision-making, and the need for support systems and sponsors. They also touch on the guilt and anxiety that often accompany...2024-12-2427 minThe She Means Business PodcastGrowing Through Feedback with Adeela Hussain JohnsonAdeela Hussain Johnson shares her career journey, from starting in Finance to becoming the CEO and Founding Member of BÉIS Travel. She emphasizes the importance of taking risks, being open to change, and investing in personal and professional development. Adeela discusses her approach to leadership, which is rooted in empathy, transparency, and building trust. She highlights the significance of fostering a culture of radical candor and feedback, and the importance of listening and knowing your audience. In this conversation, Adeela, Ilana, and Gail discuss the importance of feedback and building relationships in the workplace. They explore the challenges o...2024-12-1736 minThe She Means Business PodcastIntentional Career Planning with Co-host Gail BanackIn this episode of The She Means Business Podcast, co-hosts Ilana and Gail discuss Gail's dynamic career journey, from insights to merchandising, and the pivotal career transitions that shaped her path. Gail shares her passion for empowering women in business, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, self-belief, and women supporting one another. The conversation also addresses the challenges of imposter syndrome and underscores the transformative power of mentorship and community in achieving professional success.Takeaways:Assess your job based on what it could be once you make it your own.Time management is one of the few...2024-12-1030 min
The Voice of RetailMeet the Hosts of The She Means Business Podcast, retail veterans Gail Banack and Ilana SantoneWelcome to this entertaining and insightful episode as I chat with the hosts of The She Means Business Podcast, a new and welcome addition to the Canadian podcasting universe focussed on aspiring leaders looking for inspiration, motivation and mentorship in the business world, co-hosted by Gail Banack and Ilana Santone. Gail and Ilana also happen to be two of Canada's foremost retail leaders, with tours of duty at Loblaw, Home Depot, Target Canada, Indigo, and Canadian Tire between them. Gail was mostly the Senior Vice President of Merchandising at Indigo Books, and Ilana is currently the Senior Vi...2024-12-0640 minThe She Means Business PodcastNegotiating your Worth with Jillian ClimieIn this episode, Jillian Climie, co-founder of the Thoughtful Co., discusses her journey in executive compensation and her mission to empower women in negotiating their worth. She shares insights on the common fears women face during negotiations, the importance of framing their asks positively, and the nuances of negotiating for new versus existing roles. Jillian emphasizes the need for education around compensation structures and encourages individuals to invest time in their career development to build confidence and effectively advocate for themselves. In this conversation, Jillian Climie discusses the importance of self-recognition in professional achievements, the persistent gender pay gap...2024-12-0332 minThe She Means Business PodcastA view on Leadership with Co-host Ilana SantoneIn this episode of The She Means Business podcast, co-hosts Gail and Ilana engage in a candid conversation about Ilana's career journey, from her beginnings in teaching to her current role as Senior Vice President at Canadian Tire. They discuss pivotal moments in her career, the lessons learned from her experiences at Target, and the importance of mentorship and leadership. Ilana shares her insights on hiring practices, the significance of curiosity, and the value of building strong teams. The conversation culminates in advice for younger professionals to let go of worry and embrace their potential.Takeaways...2024-11-2626 minThe She Means Business PodcastCrafting Your Personal Brand with Lisa GibsonLisa Gibson, founder of Ignite Communications, discusses the importance of personal branding and how to build an authentic personal brand. She emphasizes the need for self-awareness and strategic thinking in defining one's personal brand. Lisa suggests conducting a self-assessment by asking friends and family for their perceptions and conducting a Google search to see what information is available about oneself. She recommends identifying three to four brand pillars that align with one's values and unique experiences. Lisa also discusses the various ways to communicate and share one's personal brand, such as through social media, speaking opportunities, and writing articles. 2024-11-1933 minThe She Means Business PodcastThriving Through Interruptions with Jessica SnowJessica Snow, a strategy and operations executive, shares her unique career path and her latest venture, Be Uninterrupted, which supports professional women navigating life interruptions. She emphasizes the importance of a portfolio career and taking control of one's own destiny. Jessica discusses the challenges and opportunities of navigating different industries and roles, and offers advice for women looking to make career changes. She also highlights the need for women to acknowledge and navigate interruptions, such as maternity leave, job promotions, and board positions. Trusting oneself and embracing uniqueness are key takeaways from the conversation. The main themes discussed include...2024-11-1220 minThe She Means Business PodcastCharting your corporate career path with Morgan FerrisMorgan Ferris, Vice President of Merchandising for Entertainment at Walmart Canada, shares her career journey and insights on building a successful career in retail. She emphasizes the importance of being open to different opportunities and taking on stretch assignments to develop a broad skill set. Morgan also highlights the value of networking and maintaining relationships with peers and mentors. She encourages individuals to have confidence in their abilities and to put themselves out there, even if it means taking risks and potentially failing. Overall, Morgan's advice is to approach careers as long journeys of skill acquisition rather...2024-11-0526 minThe She Means Business PodcastBalancing work and motherhood with Megan Anderson Part 2Megan Anderson, Global Client Director at Microsoft, shares her insights on balancing work and motherhood. Megan shares her experience of being hired while pregnant and the significance of a supportive company culture. She advises women to prioritize and be deliberate in crafting their home and work lives. In this conversation, Megan and Ilana discuss the challenges and choices faced by working mothers. Gail, Ilana and Megan explore the societal pressures and expectations placed on women, the importance of intentional decision-making, and the need for support systems and sponsors. They also touch on the guilt and anxiety that often accompany...2024-10-2926 min
The She Means Business PodcastNavigating Career Transitions with Megan Anderson Part 1Megan Anderson, Global Client Director at Microsoft, shares her insights on navigating career transitions. She emphasizes the importance of saying yes to opportunities and surrounding yourself with great people. Megan also highlights the value of transferable skills and problem-solving abilities in different roles. She discusses the roadblocks she has faced and the importance of learning from failure. TakeawaysSay yes to opportunities and figure it out later.Surround yourself with great people who support and inspire you.Develop transferable skills and problem-solving abilities.Embrace failure as a part of the learning process.2024-10-2220 min
The She Means Business PodcastAsserting Yourself with Confidence with Jennifer HoJennifer Ho, Vice President of Product & Design at OLG, shares her journey in the digital field and her experience as a woman in a male-dominated industry. She emphasizes the importance of fostering personal growth, cultivating talent, and solving customer and business problems in digital transformations. She also reflects on her experience as a visible minority and the impact of relationships and constructive feedback on her career. Jen, Gail and Ilana touch on the importance of addressing microaggressions and biases, the challenges faced by visible minorities and women in leadership positions, and the need for deliberate and conscious decisions in...2024-10-1529 min
The She Means Business PodcastA disciplined approach to your career with Kelly OlsenKelly Olsen, Chief Operating Officer at Arcana, shares her career journey and experiences in luxury retail, consulting, and the cannabis industry. She discusses her involvement with Lean In Canada and the impact it had on her career. Kelly emphasizes the importance of clear personal priorities, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and knowing when to balance extracurricular activities with work. She advises younger professionals to stay curious and be aware of opportunities within their own organization and network and emphasizes the value of building and nurturing a network over time. She also highlights the importance of discipline in making deliberate choices...2024-10-0826 min
The She Means Business PodcastTaking Risks & Starting Over with Olivia PetrouOlivia Petrou, founder and CEO of Olive & Fig, shares her journey of leaving her corporate job to start her luxury charcuterie and food experience brand. Growing up in a Greek household, Olivia was surrounded by food and gatherings, which inspired her love for creating beautiful and abundant charcuterie boards. She went through a difficult breakup before finding herself and starting Olive & Fig. With the support of her now husband George, Olivia built a successful business that offers on-demand charcuterie board delivery. She emphasizes the importance of listening, trusting her intuition, and putting her needs first.Takeaways2024-10-0127 min
The She Means Business PodcastTrailerShe Means Business is a podcast for aspiring leaders looking for inspiration, motivation and mentorship in the business world, co-hosted by Gail Banack and Ilana Santone.This podcast features women Founders, CEOs, trailblazers and innovators who are leading their teams and business with passion and conviction.Join us for real stories, meaningful conversations and actionable takeaways.Tune in every week for new episodes with Gail, Ilana and special guests.Send us a textThanks for listening!If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe and review wherever you...2024-08-2901 min