Shows
Behind the BusinessBehind City Hall: Lessons in Leadership and Resilience with Dorothy McCabeDorothy McCabe, elected Mayor of Waterloo in 2022, brings decades of municipal experience and community-focused leadership to City Hall. In this episode we go behind the business of running a city — from the early career moments that shaped her, to the hands-on decisions that produce visible outcomes for residents. Dorothy discusses housing and growth, partnerships with post-secondary institutions and business, how leaders learn from setbacks, and the practical habits that keep her grounded. Whether you run a small business, lead a team, or simply care about the future of Waterloo Region, you’ll find practical lessons and honest stori...
2025-12-1836 minBehind the BusinessThe Good Effect: Reimagining Insurance Through Purpose, People, and Progress with Andy Taylor and Neil ParkIn this episode of Behind the Business, we sit down with Andy Taylor, President & CEO of Gore Mutual Insurance Company, and Neil Parkinson, Chair of Gore’s Board of Directors.Built on a foundation of financial strength for more than 180 years, Gore is one of Canada’s first property and casualty insurance companies. They are deeply rooted in community and are driving bold change with their intention to merge with Beneva, bringing together two well established, financially strong, trusted brands to reinforce the meaningful role of mutuals in the Canadian insurance industry.Andy and Neil share...
2025-12-1155 minBehind the BusinessFlying Forward: How Connect Airlines is Changing Regional AviationToday’s guest is John Thomas, CEO of Connect Airlines, a company on a mission to rethink regional aviation and lead the way in sustainable air travel. With a career that spans global airlines, startup ventures and bold innovation, John brings a unique perspective on leadership, infrastructure, and what it takes to build connectivity in today’s fast‑changing world.In this episode we’ll explore John’s journey from large carriers to launching his own operation, the vision for Connect Airlines, how they’re tackling a “broken model” in regional flight, and what that means for communities, sus...
2025-12-0445 minBehind the BusinessBuilding Water Confidence & Community with Ronjiny BasuRonjiny Basu is the founder of Puddles Swim School in Kitchener, a program dedicated to helping children develop confidence, safety, and joy in the water. After years in corporate program management and marketing, Ronjiny followed her passion to create a high-impact, safety-focused swim school that combines Montessori-inspired teaching with sensory-friendly design.In this episode, we go behind the business to hear how she built Puddles from the ground up, how she leads a small but mission-driven team, and how she’s partnering with the Waterloo Region community to make water safety and confidence accessible for all children.
2025-11-2726 minBehind the BusinessSubtly You: How a Husband-and-Wife Team Builds Business & CommunityShawna Leifso and Greg Quaile, the husband-and-wife team behind Subtly You, have built a medical aesthetics business that stands out through creativity, community engagement, and personalized client experiences. In this episode of Behind the Business, we explore how they combine clinical expertise with smart marketing strategies to grow a thriving business while staying authentic.Tune in to hear how Shawna and Greg leverage partnerships, innovative campaigns, and hands-on community involvement to make an impact and what lessons their journey offers to other entrepreneurs in service-based industries.Let’s go Behind the Business with Shawna and Gr...
2025-11-2033 minBehind the BusinessEmpowering Tomorrow’s Entrepreneurs with Karen GallantKaren Gallant is the President and CEO of Junior Achievement JA South Western Ontario on, one of Canada’s most impactful youth organizations helping students develop financial literacy, entrepreneurial thinking, and work-readiness skills.Under her leadership, JA has expanded across the region, embraced digital learning, and continues to inspire young people to take ownership of their futures.We’ll talk about the importance of financial literacy, inspiring the next generation of innovators, and how businesses can play a hands-on role in developing future talent.Let’s go Behind the Bus...
2025-11-1325 minBehind the BusinessImmersive Art and Community Impact: The Precious Julius StoryPrecious Julius, founder of Last Minute Gallery, is transforming how Waterloo Region experiences art. What began as a passion project has grown into a vibrant, award-winning platform that celebrates emerging artists, fosters collaboration, and brings art directly into the community through immersive, hands-on events.In this episode, Precious shares the journey of building Last Minute Gallery, the inspiration behind The Art Experience, and how he connects artists with audiences in meaningful ways. From winning the 2025 Small Business Awards Event Impact Award to navigating the evolving arts landscape, he offers an insider’s perspective on...
2025-11-0627 minBehind the BusinessFrom Nursing to Cuisine: Vanessa Simon’s Recipe for Business Through CareVanessa Simon is the founder of Vanessa’s Cuisine. She made a bold career change from nursing to entrepreneurship, creating a Caribbean-rooted food brand that’s now featured on store shelves across Waterloo Region. Along the way, Vanessa has built strong community connections, earned the 2025 Exceptional Small Business of the Year Award (community-voted), and used her platform to inspire women and young entrepreneurs.Get a look Behind the Business in Waterloo Region with Ian McLean, President & CEO of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.
2025-10-3027 minBehind the BusinessBDC Small Business Week: The Story Behind FoodZenToday’s episode is sponsored by BDC – the bank for Canadian entrepreneurs, as we celebrate BDC Small Business Week, from October 19-25. Each day, we’re spotlighting a different small business owner from our community — the people who power our local economy, create jobs, and bring innovation to life. We’re also excited to have this year’s theme focus on the economic revolution, and getting your business ready.Today, we’re sitting down with Destiny Moser, Founder & Executive Chef of FoodZen. After nearly two decades in corporate tech, Destiny followed her passion for food blending her Indigenous her...
2025-10-2241 minBehind the BusinessBDC Small Business Week: Behind The WAR Room Baseball Training CentreToday’s episode is sponsored by BDC – the bank for Canadian entrepreneurs, as we celebrate BDC Small Business Week, from October 19-25. Each day, we’re spotlighting a different small business owner from our community — the people who power our local economy, create jobs, and bring innovation to life. We’re also excited to have this year’s theme focus on the economic revolution, and getting your business ready.Today, we’re sitting down with Bruce Ysselstein (Eyes-el-stein) of The WAR Room Baseball Training Centre. A lifelong baseball enthusiast, Bruce turned his passion for the game in...
2025-10-2136 minBehind the BusinessBDC Small Business Week: The Story Behind Atum Financial ServicesAs we celebrate BDC Small Business Week, from October 19-25. Each day, we’re spotlighting a different small business owner from our community — the people who power our local economy, create jobs, and bring innovation to life. We’re also excited to have this year’s theme focus on the economic revolution and getting your business ready. Today, we’re sitting down with Paul Brosnan of Atum Financial Services. After over two decades working in corporate finance across industries like manufacturing, healthcare, and automotive, Paul followed his passion for helping businesses and individuals thrive financially. Through Atu...
2025-10-2029 minBehind the BusinessBuilding the Future of Kitchener: A Conversation with Mayor Berry VrbanovicBorn in Croatia and raised right here in Kitchener, Mayor Berry Vrbanovic has dedicated over three decades to public service. First, as a city councillor, and now serving his third term as Mayor. His leadership has helped shape Kitchener into the dynamic, innovative, and inclusive city it is today.In this episode, we’ll go behind the business of city building, exploring what drives his vision for Kitchener’s growth, how we’re preparing for a population of one million, and what’s ahead in his upcoming State of the City Address.From lessons...
2025-10-2051 min
The Simply Soul ShowIan K - The Simply Soul Show 16-10-25Play List
1. Aretha Franklin – Wonderful
2. The O’Jays – My Favourite Person
3. Eugene Record – Overdose Of Joy
4. Surface – Happy
5. Michael Wycoff – Looking Up To You
6. Sunburst Band – Put A Lyric On It
7. Gary Byrd & The GB Experience – The Crown
8. Sweet Thunder – Everybody’s Singing Love Songs
9. Bobby Womack – Tell Me Why
10. Evelyn Champagne King – Your Personal Touch
11. Bob Marley & The Wailers – Three Little Birds
12. Dawn Penn – You Don’t Love Me (No, No, No)
13. Brown Sugar – Hello Stranger
14. Bitty McLean Feat Sly & Robbie – In And Out Of Love
15. Lou Rawls – You’ll...
2025-10-191h 59The Simply Soul ShowIan K - The Simply Soul Show 16-10-25Play List
1. Aretha Franklin – Wonderful
2. The O’Jays – My Favourite Person
3. Eugene Record – Overdose Of Joy
4. Surface – Happy
5. Michael Wycoff – Looking Up To You
6. Sunburst Band – Put A Lyric On It
7. Gary Byrd & The GB Experience – The Crown
8. Sweet Thunder – Everybody’s Singing Love Songs
9. Bobby Womack – Tell Me Why
10. Evelyn Champagne King – Your Personal Touch
11. Bob Marley & The Wailers – Three Little Birds
12. Dawn Penn – You Don’t Love Me (No, No, No)
13. Brown Sugar – Hello Stranger
14. Bitty McLean Feat Sly & Robbie – In And Out Of Love
15. Lou Rawls – You’ll...
2025-10-191h 59Behind the BusinessEmpathy, Energy, and Executive Coaching: The Amy Ballantyne WayAmy Ballantyne is a multiple TEDx Speaker, Executive Life Coach, Workplace Wellness & Emotional Intelligence Trainer, Certified Trainer of Neuro Linguistic Programing, and Hypnosis, author of “Celebrate Yourself” and host of the podcast: Power to the People Pleasers. Her whole-person coaching approach serves executives, professionals and entrepreneurs to break through their barriers and excel to new heights.On this episode, Amy talks about Embracing Worthiness and how she helps leaders live an Awesome Life. Let’s go “Behind the Business” with Amy Ballantyne. Get a look Behind the Business in Waterloo Region with Ian McL...
2025-10-0929 minBehind the BusinessReinventing Fun and Function : A Deep Dive with Mark BingemanMark Bingeman is the President and CEO of Bingemans, a family-owned entertainment, hospitality, and event destination in Waterloo Region. After studying hospitality internationally and gaining experience with major hotel brands, Mark returned to lead the business founded by his grandfather. Under his leadership, Bingemans has evolved into a modern, multi-faceted destination, offering waterparks, live events, and innovative experiences like Putt Social.Tune in to hear Mark share his journey stepping into a family-rooted leadership role, how he balances innovation with tradition, and the lessons learned while growing Bingemans. From modernizing the business to creating memorable experiences for...
2025-10-0233 min
The PulseIsland Volunteer Darrell MacKay Reports From Ukraine & Award Winning Author JP McLean"Send us a text about this episode!"This Episode Features:(27:10) Darrell MacKay of Campbell River speaks directly from Kyiv during his seventh volunteer trip to Ukraine with his girlfriend Olga Buhai. MacKay has raised $140,000 through Facebook fundraising and discusses his forthcoming book "My Time With Heroes." The interview provides firsthand accounts of evacuation efforts, infrastructure challenges, and the resilience of Ukrainian people.(7:10) JP McLean, an Eric Hoffer Award winner and three-time Literary Titan medallist from Denman Island, discusses her new book "The Never Witch" - the first...
2025-09-3050 minBehind the BusinessFrom BlackBerry to Danby: Jim Estill’s Playbook for Entrepreneurial LeadershipJim Estill of Danby Appliances is a Canadian technology entrepreneur, executive, and philanthropist. Jim started a computer distribution business from the trunk of his car while in university. He turned that modest business into a company doing $350,000,000 in sales before selling to SYNNEX in 2004. He then became CEO of SYNNEX Canada and grew sales from $800,000,000 to $2 Billion over five years. Jim is active on various boards and was a founding board member of Research in Motion/Blackberry, before the company went public.In 2016 & 2017 Jim made the news Opens in new windowfor his sponsorship efforts to settle 58 refugee fa...
2025-09-2545 min
Behind the BusinessFrom Sri Lanka to Elmira: Cultivating Community and Inclusion with Abby CooperAbby Cooper is the Founder of Hearts Open For Everyone (H.O.P.E.). Abby immigrated as a young child from Sri Lanka and, after spending some time in Toronto, she settled in Elmira, where she launched H.O.P.E. Her work blends mindfulness, community engagement, DEI education, and grassroots activism.On this episode, she talks about what inspired her to launch H.O.P.E., and how mindfulness, leadership, and community building all come together in her work. We’ll talk about the impact of events like the Multicultural Festival of Elmira (coming up...
2025-09-1830 min
Cup of MetsS4 E19: Mets Take 2 of 3 In Detroit, McLean Continues To Shine, Juan Soto Is On Another Level, What's Next For Kodai Senga & Sean Manaea? Free Brandon SproatWith just 22 games remaining in the regular season, the Mets continue to fight for the NL East while holding a firm lead in the NL Wild Card race. The offense has been electric across the board led by Juan Soto with the rotation rounding into form thanks to the emergence of Nolan McLean. We discuss what's next in store for not just the club in their quest for the playoffs but for Kodai Senga & Sean Manaea in the rotation who continue to disappoint. Follow on YOUTUBE, X & INSTAGRAM: @cupofmetsSubscribe on SPOTIFY, APPLE or wherever...
2025-09-0449 min
Made In Lithgow#36: Death Cap & Deception – Lisa Mclean on the Mushroom Murder TrialFrom Lithgow to the world stage: journalist and podcaster Lisa Mclean has covered everything from Prince Andrew and Epstein to Vanderpump scandals — but nothing has captivated the nation like the Mushroom Murder Trial.Lisa sat inside the courtroom, tracked Erin Patterson’s lies, and brings us first-hand insight into one of Australia’s most shocking crimes — a Sunday lunch that ended in tragedy, three deaths, and headlines across the globe.In this exclusive chat, we cover:✅ Lisa’s strange online link to Erin years before the murders✅ The c...
2025-09-0450 minCup of MetsS4 E17: The Mets Offense Finally Awakes, Little League Classic Win, Nolan McLean, Praying For Francisco Alvarez's Thumb, Upcoming Series Preview in WashingtonThe Mets offense finally has a pulse as the Mets took the final two games versus the Seattle Mariners. We discuss the series, Nolan McLean's Debut, Pete Alonso's HR Record and look ahead to the upcoming series' in Washington & Atlanta.Follow us on INSTAGRAM, YOUTUBE & X: @cupofmetsSubscribe on SPOTIFY, APPLE or wherever you get your favorite podcasts!Download The SeatGeek App! Use Code: "CUPOFMETS" at First Purchase to get $20.00 off!
2025-08-1950 min
The Kilt and The Redneck PodcastEp. 31 When In Doubt Pinkies Out (The Belko Experiments)Hello listeners,We've all had bad days at work, plain and simple, but we've not had as bad of a day as the folks over at Belko Industries.We are discussing the 2016 American action horror film by Greg McLean and James Gunn The Belko Experiments. While this may be the end of gore fest 2025, it doesn't mean we are done. We've had a great run of gore, but now it's time for something more. We look forward to your continued support, and we are...
2025-08-101h 52The Simply Soul ShowIan K - The Simply Soul Show 31-07-25Play List
1. Light Of The World – London Town
2. BB&Q Band – Genie
3. Loose Ends – Nights Of Pleasure
4. Glen Goldsmith – I Won’t Cry
5. Matt Bianco – Half A Minute
6. The Whispers – And The Beat Goes On
7. Melba Moore – Love’s Comin’ At Ya
8. Blackbyrds –Rock Creek Park (M&M Mix)
9. Gene Chandler – Get Down
10. Stephanie Mills – Top Of My List
11. Bitty McLean Feat Sly & Robbie - In And Out Of Love
12. Phyllis Dillon – Perfidia
13. Morgan Heritage – She’s Still Loving Me
14. Marcia Aitken – I’m Still In love With You
15. Arthur Adams...
2025-07-312h 00The Simply Soul ShowIan K - The Simply Soul Show 31-07-25Play List
1. Light Of The World – London Town
2. BB&Q Band – Genie
3. Loose Ends – Nights Of Pleasure
4. Glen Goldsmith – I Won’t Cry
5. Matt Bianco – Half A Minute
6. The Whispers – And The Beat Goes On
7. Melba Moore – Love’s Comin’ At Ya
8. Blackbyrds –Rock Creek Park (M&M Mix)
9. Gene Chandler – Get Down
10. Stephanie Mills – Top Of My List
11. Bitty McLean Feat Sly & Robbie - In And Out Of Love
12. Phyllis Dillon – Perfidia
13. Morgan Heritage – She’s Still Loving Me
14. Marcia Aitken – I’m Still In love With You
15. Arthur Adams...
2025-07-312h 00Behind the BusinessBehind the Business of KW Multicultural Centre (with Lucia Harrison)In this episode of Behind the Business, Ian McLean sits down with Lucia Harrison, CEO of the Kitchener-Waterloo Multicultural Centre, to explore what it takes to build a truly inclusive community. From her own immigrant story to her leadership at one of the region’s most impactful nonprofits, Lucia shares insights into the challenges newcomers face, the importance of community placemaking, and how cross-sector partnerships can create meaningful change.Lucia also previews this year’s KW Multicultural Festival, happening June 21–22 at Victoria Park.Let’s go Behind the Business...
2025-06-1930 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of Spectrum (with Suzie Taka)In this episode, our CEO Ian Mclean sits down with Suzie Taka is the Executive Director of Spectrum. She has been a dedicated community organizer and 2SLGBTQIA+ advocate in Waterloo Region for over a decade. She has extensive experience in the non-profit and public sectors, most recently as part of the Reconciliation and Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion team at the Region of Waterloo. Suzie brings a strong background in stakeholder and government relations, community engagement, communications, public policy, and grant writing.Her personal projects include producing multiple years of Rainbow Reels Queer and Trans Film Festival and...
2025-06-0527 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of Calming Tree (with Melissa Reid)Melissa is a compassionate and experienced therapist who supports individuals and families through challenging times. She works with clients experiencing grief and loss, as well as those navigating symptoms or experiences of trauma. In addition to her clinical work, Melissa now provides supervision to therapists and students pursuing degrees in counselling or social work.Her approach is warm, empathetic, and tailored to meet each person’s unique needs. Over the years, Melissa has developed extensive experience in grief and bereavement counselling, helping people cope with the death of a loved one and other significant forms of loss—incl...
2025-05-3027 minBehind the BusinessBehind The Business of Rogers (with Robin Farrell)In this episode our CEO Ian Mclean sits down with Robin Farrell who is an award-winning broadcaster with over 20 years of radio morning show experience. She currently hosts “Mornings with Robin & PJ” with Paul Johnson weekdays from 5:30-10am at Country 106.7 in Kitchener, and previously worked as a morning show host for 15 years in Victoria, BC. Robin has always had a great passion for getting women and girls involved in sport and physical activity. She holds an Honours Bachelor of Outdoor Education from Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, and a Master’s Degree in Sport and Exercise Psychol...
2025-05-2033 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of AskEllyn (with Ellyn Winters)This week, Ian McLean speaks with Ellyn Winters, Chief Marketing Officer, Ignition Communications Inc., and CEO of The Lyndall Project & AskEllyn.Learn about Ellyn's incredible career journey in marketing/communications, her courageous battle with breast cancer and why it led her to create the world's first conversational AI for individuals battling breast cancer.Get a look Behind the Business in Waterloo Region with Ian McLean, President & CEO of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.
2025-05-1532 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of 570 CityNews with (Mike Farwell)Get ready for an exciting edition of the Behind the Business Podcast as Ian McLean sits down with Mike Farwell, host of the Mike Farwell Show on 570 CityNews Mike Farwell has more than 20 years of radio and television broadcasting experience. Currently, he works with Rogers Radio in Kitchener as the host of the ‘The Mike Farwell Show’ and the play-by-play voice of the Kitchener Rangers on 570 News. He is also a columnist for the Kitchener Post.Get a look Behind the Business in Waterloo Region with Ian McLean, President & CEO of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamb...
2025-05-0135 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of KW Humane Society (with Victoria Baby)Get ready for an exciting edition of the Behind the Business Podcast as Ian McLean sits down with Victoria Baby, CEO of KW Human Society. Baby has dedicated her career to supporting communities through work with a variety of provincial and national charities and has a passion for animals, their welfare, and the human-animal bond that resonates deeply with the Humane Society’s mission and values.Get a look Behind the Business in Waterloo Region with Ian McLean, President & CEO of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.
2025-04-2420 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of Waterloo Wellington Flight Centre (with Bob Connors)Get ready for an exciting edition of the Behind the Business Podcast as Ian McLean sits down with Bob Connors, general manager of Waterloo Wellington Flight Centre Bob has been at WWFC since 17 years and has played a vital part in the smooth operations. Learn more about this journey and career insights in this episode. WWFC were also awarded with the Environment & Sustainability Award at the Business Excellence Awards Gala 2025.Get a look Behind the Business in Waterloo Region with Ian McLean, President & CEO of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.
2025-04-1720 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of GVCA/Champions for Charity (with Mandy Bujold)Get ready for an exciting edition of the Behind the Business Podcast as Ian McLean sits down with Mandy Bujold, former Canadian Boxing Champion & gold medalist. She now works as a Manager of Industry/Community Partnerships at the Grand Valley Construction Association and is the Founder of Champions for Charity. Learn about Mandy's incredible career journey, her life after boxing, and why donating to charities is so important. The Grand Valley Construction Association was the recent recipient of the Community Builder of the Year Award at the 2025 Business Excellence Awards Gala, Presented by Cow...
2025-04-1030 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of Ontario Teachers Insurance Plan (with Chris Floyd)In this episode our CEO Ian McLean sits down with Chris Floyd - President of OTIP (Ontario Teachers Insurance Plan) Chris began his career in insurance as a claims adjustor at Gore Mutual Insurance in 1986. He joined OTIP in 1994 as a Service Manager, and advanced to the role of Vice-President shortly after. Chris has been serving as the President of Individual Insurance Services since 2004, overseeing operations for both the OTIP/RAEO Insurance Brokers Inc. and TW Insurance Brokers Inc. companies.Chris is a Chartered Insurance Professional (CIP) and a g...
2025-04-0329 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of The Dessert Artist (with Rochelle Williams)Black-owned businesses are very much a part of the food scene in Waterloo region.Specialty grocery stores, ice cream shops, restaurants where you can enjoy Ethiopian doro wot and Jamaican patties and local bakeries offer delicious dishes and flavours not found in other food businesses.Rochelle Williams started her baking and cake decorating business in late 2020. Her website explains "the Black perspective," which has helped shape her as a baker and artist. She rebranded her Kitchener business in Dec. 2022 as The Dessert Artist. She is also the Young Professional of the Year at B...
2025-03-2724 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of Brentwood Livery (with Brent Ferguson)Brentwood Livery, offering services in chauffeured-driven service, is proud to contribute to the best community in Canada, not only for work but for play. At Brentwood, “transforming transportation into an unforgettable life experience” is the underlying mission. The company’s success is strongly rooted in the value placed on relationships with guests, employees and the community as a whole. Since 1990, Brentwood has focused on delivering exceptional value, striving to exceed expectations.Get a look Behind the Business in Waterloo Region with Ian McLean, President & CEO of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.
2025-03-2027 min
The Gal MatrixPartnering with Your OppositeMy husband, Ian, joins me on this episode to discuss the pluses and minuses of partnering with your complete opposite. Ian Williams, a noted introvert is subjected to some particularly challenging choices for someone who hates being in the spotlight.
2025-03-1323 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of Ascnd Media (with Sheldon Thompson)Ascnd Media is a full-service production company offering dynamic cinematography and photography.Founded in 2019 by Sheldon Thompson, the purpose of Ascnd is to pursue creativity in every way possible while continuing to raise the bar.Sheldon explains their philosophy as a way of moving forward and to exceed expectations by going above and beyond with every one of their projects.From the collaborative draft process, to directing, to capturing photos and visuals, to audio production, Ascnd Media is able to produce all stages of production uniquely based on your needs.Get...
2025-02-2728 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business Special with Director of Physician Recruitment for the Region (with Jenna Petker)Welcome to a very exciting edition of the Behind the Business Podcast hosted by Ian McLean, President/CEO of the KW Chamber. This week, Ian sits down with the Chamber's very own Jenna Petker, Director of Healthcare & Physician Recruitment on behalf of the community to the KW4 area. Jenna has been recruiting physicians to the community for over 9 years and has played an integral role in healthcare advocacy and health human resource strategy. Find out more about her incredible efforts, the critical need for doctors at this time, the history of the program, and much mor...
2025-02-2025 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of Waterloo Region Community Foundation (with Eric Avner)Eric leads Waterloo Region Community Foundation (WRCF), and works with the Board of Directors, committees, and team to further the vision of ensuring our communities are “equitable, connected, and sustainable; and people are thriving”. He has overall responsibility for the operations of the organization and collaborates with people locally, provincially, and nationally to develop innovative ways to influence lasting social change by maximizing philanthropic opportunities. Eric oversees WRCF’s strategic activities linked to our core area of focus: Social Infrastructure. Please contact Eric if you want to learn more about the strategic direction of WRCF, potential partnership opportu...
2025-02-1332 minBehind the BusinessSpecial Episode: Canada Tariff Threats with host (Ian McLean)Welcome to a very unique episode of the Behind the Business Podcast with Ian McLean. Today’s episode is going to be a bit different. Ian will not be joined by a business owner or community builder. Instead, he's using today’s episode to answer all your questions on the tariff threats by the United States, and how it could affect your business. He's gathered the most commonly asked questions that the KW Chamber has been receiving, and is ready to answer them all!Get a look Behind the Business in Waterloo Region with Ian McLea...
2025-02-0625 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of Little Mushroom Catering (with Stephanie Soulis)Stephanie Soulis is the President & CEO of Little Mushroom Catering. She created LMC in 2010 as a natural extension of her love for food and quality service. Stephanie was featured in a commercial for CTV in Libro’s Share the Future campaign. She is past Chair of the Board for the Kitchener Public Library, past Chair of the Board for Foodlink Waterloo Region, and was a Director with the Greater KW Chamber of Commerce. Stephanie also sits on the Waterloo Region Food System Round Table and is Chair of the Conestoga College Hospitality Program Advisory Committee. Stephanie currently si...
2025-01-3027 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of The Charcoal Group of Restaurants (with Jody Palubiski)Jody Palubiski has been the CEO and managing partner of the Charcoal Group since 2003. Jody helped lead the Charcoal Group to developing the Wildcraft Grill Bar in 2007, The Bauer Kitchen in 2009 and Beertown Public House in 2012, with many of the restaurants having several locations around Ontario.Get a look Behind the Business in Waterloo Region with Ian McLean, President & CEO of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.Get a look Behind the Business in Waterloo Region with Ian McLean, President & CEO of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.
2025-01-2342 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of Catalyst Capital Inc (with Amber French)Amber French is Managing Partner at Catalyst Capital. Co-Founded with Kurtis McBride (Miovision, Catalyst 137), Catalyst Capital connects investors to early stage technology and tech-based commercial real estate opportunities in Waterloo Region.Amber is also co-founder of Catalyst Commons, an approximately 70000sqft coworking and corporate innovation space debuting Spring 2020 inside Catalyst 137, the world’s largest IoT maker space (www.catalyst-137.com).Prior to venture, Amber owned and operated Verity Financial, a brokerage specializing in Insurance and exempt market placements. She is a member of NACO and GTAN, and holds a BSc from University of Waterloo....
2025-01-1627 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of Good Co. Productions (with Amit Mehta)Good Company Productions is a hyperlocal music and event production company based in Waterloo Region. They specialize in creating intimate popup concert experiences in unusual spaces, featuring emerging musicians, designers, and unique local venues.Good Co.'s founder, Amit manages the day-to-day operations of the organization, partnerships, and community relationships, and oversees the company's artist development programs. Hear about Amit's career background - from an engineer to an entrepreneur - and how Good Co. is transforming the art scene. Get a look Behind the Business in Waterloo Region with Ian McLean, President & CEO of...
2025-01-0934 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of The Scented Market (with Kristy Lynn Miller)The Scented Market began with a simple idea: to create a space where high-quality, thoughtfully crafted scents could bring comfort and joy to every home. Founded by Kristy Lynn Miller, The Scented Market has blossomed into a beloved destination for fragrance enthusiasts who value premium, sustainable products.With an eye for detail and a commitment to excellence, Kristy has transformed her passion for scents into a thriving business that resonates with customers who value thoughtfully crafted products.Hear about Kristy's career background - from nurse to entrepreneur - and how her kitchen candle business ended...
2025-01-0328 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of Sustainable Waterloo Region (with Tova Davidson)Listen to Ian McLean as he interviews Tova Davidson, Executive Director of Sustainable Waterloo Region. Learn about Tova's extensive career journey which started in communications/marketing, and what led her into the environmental world for the past 10+ years.Get a look Behind the Business in Waterloo Region with Ian McLean, President & CEO of the Greater Kitchener Waterloo Chamber of Commerce.
2024-12-1930 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of KW Titans (with David Schooley)In this episode our CEO Ian Mclean sits down with David Schooley who has 30+ years of entrepreneurial experience, 17 years in real estate and negotiation training from both Harvard Business School and Harvard Law, it’s no wonder David (aka “The Negotiator”) has been dubbed the Michael Jordan of real estate.As an award-winning Broker with RE/MAX Twin City, a Director with the Real Estate Council of Ontario (RECO) 2020-2023 , and a weekly real estate advice columnist published by Metroland Media (The Record/Toronto Star), people know to “Ask David” when they need straightforward advice. Da...
2024-12-1225 minBehind the BusinessBehind the Business of Boxing by Syd Vanderpool (with Syd Vanderpool)Champion boxer (super middleweight) and certified coach and trainer, Syd “The Jewel” Vanderpool brings more than 13 years of professional boxing and training experience to his members. Syd has extensively trained with some of the world’s finest trainers including the legendary Emanuel Stewart, Goody Petronelli, John Davenport, Alrick Dougherty and Roberta Snider.Syd’s unique abilities in and out of the ring make him both a motivational coach as well as a highly sought-after sports trainer. His experience training with world renowned athletes such as Lennox Lewis, Zab Judah and Hector Camacho has given him unique insight into the...
2024-12-0532 min