Taking Care of Business

In this episode of Taking Care of Business , we sit down with Benjamin Graham, President and CEO of Manitoba Blue Cross, for a wide‑ranging conversation about leadership, community impact, and the role large institutions play in supporting Manitobans. Ben reflects on his professional journey, including his experience leading organizations across the public and private sectors, and what has shaped...

In this episode, we sit down with Rick Duha Chariman of Duha Group and the Business Council of Manitoba Board Chair, to explore the story of a Manitoba family business now in its fourth generation. Rick reflects on the evolution of the business, the lessons learned from leading through change, and what it means to steward a legacy while preparing for the future. We also discuss his approach to lea...

In this episode, we sit down with Mike Pyle, CEO of Exchange Income Corporation (EIC) and former Chair of the Business Council of Manitoba. Mike shares his journey from early roles in finance to building one of Canada’s most respected diversified acquisition companies. We explore EIC’s growth strategy, Mike’s approach to leadership, and his commitment to community impact—including the company’s ro...

In this episode we sit down with Ash Modha, Co-Founder and CEO of Mondetta Clothing—a remarkable entrepreneur and an all-around great Manitoban. Ash launched Mondetta in 1986, while still in his teens, alongside family and friends with a vision to create a brand that celebrated global unity. What began as a small venture selling clothes on the Grand Beach boardwalk has now grown into an internatio...

As the U.S. election draws closer, we met with former Premier of Manitoba and Canadian Ambassador to the United States, Gary Doer, and NFI Group President and CEO Paul Soubry, hosted by the Business Council of Manitoba President and CEO Bram Strain to talk U.S. election and trade relations.  Gary contributes his career expertise on the presidential race, the potential reshuffling of the Senate and...

Michelle Cameron is the owner and founder of Dreamcatcher Promotions and INAC—Indigenous Nations Apparel Company. Michelle started Dreamcatcher in the basement of her home 13 years ago with one used embroidery machine, and the company is now the largest Indigenous-owned promotional company in Canada. INAC is the first Indigenous-owned company to open in CF Polo Park and has now expanded to Saskatc...

Chad Friesen is the President and CEO of Friesens Corporation, an Altona-based global publishing, printing, and packaging manufacturer. Chad is not a part of the original Friesens family, but he has dedicated a large part of his career to the company, having worked there for over 14 years.  Friesens Corporation has a unique structure as it is 100% employee-owned. With over 600 employees, Friesens...