Ottawa Business Podcast

In this episode we sit down with Kim Vincent & Josée Martel of Ability Hive. They tell the remarkable story of dealing with the diagnosis of autism for their daughter Sage and how their passion for helping her turned into a thriving business. They provide some practical tips on dealing with a child that has autism, dealing with an autism diagnosis and the resources available to families. Times...

In this episode we speak with Michael David Reid, a young, successful and vibrant entrepreneur from Ottawa and heard about the various businesses that he either started or purchased. He shares some incredible tips on what it takes to start a business and also shares from experience what is required when taking over a business. Michael shares his background with us and gives some shoutouts to impor...

In this episode we sit down with Daniel Badre one of Canada’s best Personal Injury Lawyers. Daniel recounts his upbringing, adversity and struggles that he had to overcome to start his own firm with his family name on the door. Daniel shares some valuable advice for entrepreneurs, business owners and even budding lawyers that you don’t want to miss. Timestamps: (7:55): Early years and discipl...

In this episode we are joined by Jordi Wills the President of Wills Transfer. Jordi tells us the origin story of this great local business, outlines his unique story and how he was able to take over the business from his father Terry becoming the 4th generation leader of Wills Transfer. If you are a business owner that is interested in expanding your business or passing it on to the next generatio...

On this episode of the podcast we are joined by the President & CEO of the CHEO Foundation Steve Read. With CHEO (Children's Hospital Of Eastern Ontario) is celebrating it's 50 year anniversary in 2024 and Steve joins us to share some insights on: The history of CHEO and it's origins. Some key developments over the years of CHEO. How the catchment area has grown. Some of the more popular fundr...

In this episode we speak with City of Ottawa Councillor George Darouze, to tell his story growing up in Beirut Lebanon, living through the civil war, fleeing his homeland, coming to Canada and how he was able to start a new life in Ottawa. From his humble beginnings with just $200 in his pocket to starting a business, becoming a leader in the telecommunications sector to running for City Council,...

In this episode we welcome Ken Hoca to the studio and shares with us about his journey to Canada, his early work in IT Security and then the founding of his company Koza IT Cyber Security. Ken offers some advice for those in business along with some Cyber Security tips for the audience along with some beer recommendations. Contact information for Ken Hoca, Koza IT Cyber Security: www.kozait.ca Tel...

In this episode of the show we speak with serial entrepreneur, business owner, investor and professor Jim Cummings. Jim brings a wealth of business experience, insights and wisdom for business owners and entrepreneurs alike. He also shares some key insights from his current work as a business coach, you don't want to miss this episode. Contact details for Jim Cummings: www.insidetrackcoaching.com...

In this episode we speak with Mike Wlotzki and Rob Howell both committee members from the charity Playing It Forward For Wishes. We discuss the origins of this great charity, how it came about and how it has grown. They also share some advice for those in fundraising looking to raise some money for charity. Contact Information for Playing It Forward For Wishes: www.playingitforwardforwishes.com E-...

In this episode we welcome Sean Sisk to the studio where he shares with us his journey as a photographer while providing some great advice for those business owners, entrepreneurs and creatives. Sean also shares the background story of his famous Gord Downie photo. Contact information for Sean Sisk, Sean Sisk Photography: www.siskphoto.com Tel: 613-294-0604 E-Mail: hello@siskphoto.com Twitter: @si...

In this episode we speak with David Casseus the Executive Director of BNI for Eastern Ontario & Western Quebec. David recently purchased the franchise and shares with us how that journey took place and what his plans are for the region. He also takes some time to outline how networking was a catalyst in building his business and some additional skills that he learned after joining BNI that he...

In this episode we speak with Travis Iverson the founder of Iver Fashion. Travis retells the story of his tragic accident that left him paralyzed, the struggles that ensued and the tremendous courage and perseverance he had to start his business while being bedridden. This is an outstanding story of courage, perseverance and motivation. Travis also discusses his "Never Give Up" hat campaign. You c...

In this episode, we talk with local author Marc Seguin about his book Advocacy In Aging. Marc touches on the components of the book and who would benefit from reading the book. Marc also takes us on his journey outlining the steps he took in getting the book completed. For those looking to purchase the book, you can do so at the website: https://advocacyinaging.com/ You can also reach Marc by e-ma...

In this episode of the show we talk with Gawain Harding and Steve Dean about NCAFA (National Capital Amateur Football Association), its impact in the Nation's Capital and the country as the largest Amateur Football Association in Canada. They provide an overview of the league, the game of football, the options available to players and the levels of play that they offer. We get their advice on how...

On this episode we welcome Tony Zacconi from the Sala San Marco Events Centre and coming soon Mercato Zacconi. Tony tells us his family story, starting in the restaurant business, moving into the banquet hall and events business and then provides us with a glimpse of the next evolution of the business: Mercato Zacconi. He outlines his vision for the Mercato Zacconi and what prompted the move into...

On this episode of the podcast, we have Antonio Romeo the Owner of Capital Sound. Antonio tells his story of an early passion for being a DJ while in high school, to the accidental start of Capital Sound in search of cost effective cables for his home renovation. Fast forward 17 years and Capital Sound is now the largest Klipsch dealer in the entire country (Canada). He provides his insights on wh...

On this episode we have Jill Craig, Mortgage Broker with Dominion Lending Centres National. Jill has been in business for the past 28 years. She tells us her heart warming story of her adoption, how she started in the mortgage business, what is like to run her own team of mortgage brokers while being diagnosed with breast cancer and how to deal with a personal illness and persevere through it. Jil...

On this episode we have Rhonda Moffatt who is a Reiki Master, author, professor and business owner. We discuss her business principles and learn a little bit more about the power of positive energy through Feng Shui and the Eastern disciplines. Rhonda also passes on her business advice to those in business or looking to start out on their own. Contact Information for Rhonda Moffatt & The Energ...

On this episode of the podcast Faye Antaki, Senior Marketing Director with World Financial Group joins us. Faye takes us through her story working in politics, becoming a stay at home mom to 2 children and then moving into the world of finance. Faye outlines how she became interested in finance and shares some insights for business owners today. Contact Information for Faye Antaki: Tel or Text: 61...

On this episode of the podcast we speak with Carrie Smith, owner and Canine therapist of the Kemptville Canine Centre. Carrie tells us her journey from being the team physiotherapist to the Canadian Women's Hockey Team at the 1998 Nagano Olympics, physiotherapist to the men's Team Canada Rugby squad to opening one of the first Canine focused clinics in Canada. She has insights and tips for dog own...

On this episode of the podcast we chat with Todd Richardson, pharmacist owner of the Metcalfe Pharmacy. Todd tells us his story and how he feels that his roots have played an important impact on running a pharmacy in a small village like Metcalfe. He provides his insights to students today, business owners, and we also discuss the Covid-19 vaccine rollout. Contact information for Todd Richardson:...

On this episode of the podcast we chat with Denis Brisson, Executive Director for Eastern Ontario & Western Quebec with BNI. Denis takes us through his story of growing up in a modest environment, to becoming a successful insurance agent, Christopher Leadership Instructor and then Executive Director with BNI. He has great business insights for those small businesses and entrepreneurs that are...

On this episode we are joined by Tony Laforest from Signs And Stitches. Tony takes us through his journey from Montreal to Ottawa and discusses how he started his business over 5 years ago. He provides advice for business owners that are established and for those looking for some guidance. He also educates the audience about the business of signage, embroidery and printing. Contact Information For...

On this episode we welcome Pat Woodock to the show. Pat is a former NFL & CFL star, Grey Cup Champion, former Grey Cup record holder, business owner and busy dad of 4 young kids. We discuss football, what it takes to be an athlete, the business of personal training and also get his advice for business owners, aspiring athletes and parents today. Contact Information For Pat Woodcock: www.elitep...

We welcome Michael Wood this episode. He is the co-founder of Ottawa Special Events, small business advocate, music business professor, musician and voter on the Grammy and Juno Awards. We dive deep on his story, his advice for business owners and small business owners. Contact Information for Ottawa Special Events: www.ottawaspecialevents.com Tel: 613-482-1703 E-Mail: info@ottawaspecialevents.com...