Executive Wins Podcast

In this conversation, we explore insights from Bianca Parsons, Executive Director of the Alberta Food Processor Association (AFPA), as she shares her journey and the significance of local food production in Alberta. You’ll also hear her discuss the importance of local food production, along with how to use food as a cultural connector. She also points out that at least 70 cents of every dollar you...

In this conversation, Gordon Sheppard interviews Kevin and Jeffrey Lapes, the second-generation owners of Pemko Construction. They discuss their family's legacy in the construction industry, the importance of starting from the ground up, and the values instilled by their father. The brothers share their experiences of winning a business award, the significance of company culture, and the oper...

In this engaging conversation, Doug Griffiths shares his journey from politics to leading the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce. He discusses the philosophy behind his bestselling book, '13 Ways', and how it shaped his approach to community development. Doug reflects on the challenges of rebuilding the Chamber, the importance of a strong team, and the operational improvements made during his...

In this engaging conversation, Carolyn Stern, an expert in emotional intelligence, shares her journey and insights on the importance of emotional awareness in leadership and workplace culture. She discusses her pioneering work in online emotional intelligence training, the power of vulnerability in leadership, and the significance of self-reflection for leaders. Carolyn emphasizes that emotions ar...

In this episode, Gordon Sheppard interviews Mike McCormick, the president of World Floor Coverings, who shares his inspiring journey from employee to business owner. Mike discusses his early experiences in the flooring industry, the challenges he faced while acquiring the family-owned business, and the importance of having a supportive network. He emphasizes the significance of confidence, persist...

In this episode, Gordon Sheppard interviews Scott Cassels, the President of General Body, a custom truck body manufacturer. Scott shares his journey of leading the company through significant changes, including a major consolidation of operations that involved moving from four separate locations into a single, larger facility. This strategic move aimed to enhance efficiency and streamline operatio...

In this conversation, Patrick Emokpae, founder of Fluid Insight, shares his journey of creating innovative solutions for the mining industry. He discusses the importance of learning, adaptability, and the impact of real-time data on operational efficiency. Patrick highlights a significant win where his company saved a client $19 million annually through improved fluid management. He emphasizes the...

In this conversation, Jesse Hill shares his extensive experience in the IT services industry, discussing the evolution of technology, the impact of AI, and the importance of proactive leadership. He recounts a significant crisis his company faced due to a zero-day vulnerability, detailing the preparation and response that led to a successful outcome. The discussion emphasizes the value of team dyn...

In this conversation, Moose Abdel shares his journey as an entrepreneur and leader in both the nonprofit and tech sectors. He discusses the founding of his nonprofit, Struggle Is Their Success, which aims to empower marginalized youth through entrepreneurship. Moose reflects on his personal experiences, the importance of mentorship, and the impact of understanding one's 'why' in lea...

In this conversation, Jerry Hanna shares his extensive journey in the water technology industry, highlighting his innovative solutions for water treatment and the importance of environmental sustainability. He discusses the challenges he faced in building his business, the significance of Indigenous innovation, and the role of mentorship in shaping future leaders. Jerry emphasizes the scientific f...

In this conversation, Michael Mahon shares his journey as a leader in education, focusing on his transformative role at the University of Lethbridge and his current position at Alberta Innovates. He discusses the importance of community engagement, strategic planning, and the concept of a 'Destination University' that attracted students from across Canada. Mahon emphasizes the significan...

In this conversation, Bill Harper, founder and chief creative officer at BrandBoss HQ, discusses the importance of storytelling in branding and how businesses can differentiate themselves in a crowded market. He shares his unexpected success on TikTok, emphasizing the platform's potential for mini mentorship and audience engagement. Bill outlines his strategic approach to content creation, th...

In this conversation, Daniel Haight shares his experiences as an entrepreneur, discussing the daily challenges he faces, the importance of self-discovery, and the necessity of building a strong team to overcome obstacles and achieve success. He also talks about key leadership learnings, including learning how to let go at the right time when something isn’t working. He also talks about the importa...

In this conversation, Landon Barrowman shares his journey from a journeyman pipe fitter in the oil industry to a mental health advocate and aspiring psychologist. He discusses the unique challenges faced by workers in the trades, particularly regarding mental health, and how he discovered cognitive behavioral therapy as a tool for personal growth. Landon emphasizes the importance of making mental...

In this conversation, Karley shares her journey as an entrepreneur and author, discussing her intense passion for branding and strategy. She reflects on her experience of writing her first business book, the challenges she faced, and how she overcame writer's block. Karley emphasizes the role of AI in her writing process, the importance of support systems, and the joy she found in writing. Sh...

In this conversation, Bill Sheehan shares his extensive experience in the association space, particularly his role at D2L and his significant achievement in creating the Sweet Snacks Expo. He discusses the importance of strategy, operational planning, and the collaborative effort required to execute a successful event. Bill emphasizes the need for perseverance, vision, and the ability to adapt to...

In this conversation, Joe Johnston emphasizes the importance of resilience in achieving success. He shares personal experiences that illustrate how perseverance can lead to significant wins, even after facing challenges. Johnston encourages listeners to maintain their determination and not give up, as the next big opportunity is always just around the corner. Key Takeaways Perspective is everythin...

In this engaging conversation, Nancy Mackay shares her journey as the founder of MacKay CEO Forums, emphasizing the importance of peer support for leaders. She discusses her personal and professional wins, the strategies that have driven her business growth, and the challenges faced along the way. Nancy highlights the significance of collaboration, the evolution of leadership, and the role of tech...

In this conversation, Shani Gwin emphasizes the importance of building a supportive community and the need for personal reflection to understand one's impact on situations and relationships. She discusses the value of trust, care, and the necessity of creating space for self-awareness and growth. She also elaborates on the concept of ‘distributed leadership’, self-care, creating boundaries an...

In this conversation, Sarah Harper emphasizes the importance of storytelling in advocacy, particularly in the context of fertility care. She discusses how personal stories can resonate with both grant providers and team members, fostering a deeper understanding of the issues at hand. By sharing experiences, advocates can motivate their teams and create a shared mission to make fertility care acces...

In this conversation, Randy emphasizes the importance of self-improvement for effective leadership. He discusses how personal growth not only benefits the individual but also positively impacts the team dynamics, creating a ripple effect of improvement. He also talks about rewarding mistakes to empower the young people on his team to develop confidence and become more creative when it comes to pro...

In this conversation, Mark Plamondon, the Executive Director of Alberta's Industrial Heartland Association (AIHA), discusses the significant role of AIHA in promoting economic development in Alberta's Industrial Heartland, which is Canada's largest hydrocarbon processing region. He highlights the importance of the Petrochemical Incentive Program as a key win for attracting investmen...

In this conversation, Nick Grimshaw, CEO of the Corps of Commissionaires, shares his extensive background in the military and government, emphasizing the organization's mission to provide meaningful employment for veterans and their families. He discusses the importance of integrity, community engagement, and adapting to the changing needs of the workforce. The conversation highlights innovat...

In this conversation, Tracy Folkes Hanson, President and CEO of CSAE, discusses her journey in leading the organization through a values-based approach. She elaborates on the importance of the CAE program for association leaders, the significance of embedding values into the organizational culture, and the strategies employed to foster a collaborative and inclusive environment, especially in a rem...

In this conversation, Gordon Sheppard interviews Stephanie Rodenkirchen, a values-driven leader and founder of Lotus Group, a Canadian recruitment and HR firm. They discuss the evolution of recruitment practices, the importance of building high-performing teams, and the innovative model that Lotus Group has developed to enhance client and candidate experiences. Stephanie shares her personal journe...