Episódios

  • S02E01: Abraham Tachjian, Director of Digital Banking, PwC

    Episode Title:

    Abraham Tachjian | Former Open Banking Lead to the Government of Canada

    “Consumers don’t care about open banking… It's an industry term… They care about the capabilities that come with it.”

    — Abraham Tachjian

    We’re speaking with Abraham Tachjian, Open Banking Lead to the Government of Canada and the self-described authority on Open Banking. In March 2022, the Government of Canada named him the country’s open banking lead. He was tasked with the mandate to empower Canadians and businesses with greater control over their financial data. Through a report that he provided to the Government of Canada, he established the foundation for Canada’s open banking system that will be implemented through legislation.

    Currently he is a Director at PwC where he heads the firm’s Canadian open banking practice. Before joining PwC, he has been involved in FinTech as a founder of a digital bank in Hong Kong and as a director at a digital banking in Singapore.

    In this episode we talk about Canada’s implementation of Open Banking, how it can help consumers, and how our system might look different then systems across the globe.

    Enjoy!

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  • “Our teens today will find themselves in five or more really quite different careers over the course of their lifetime... how we equip youth with the skills to be able to transfer and adapt through their different career journeys and environments is really, really key to our work.”

    — Erin Barton

    Erin Barton is the Chief Development Officer for JA Canada and one of Canada's leading non-profit executives. She has been named as one of Canada's 100 Most Powerful Women by WXN.

    In this episode, Erin and Jeff deep dive into teaching entrepreneurship to Canada's youth, the importance of financial literacy education, and how critical mentorship is to empowering young people today.

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  • “And that's what that's what entrepreneurship gives you. It gives you access to problems that are really hard to solve that, in my case, at least, for the kind of problems I like to solve, I can't find anywhere else.”
    — Mike Murchison

    In this episode, Mike Murchison, the co-founder and CEO of Ada, shares insights on redefining success beyond external measures and embracing intrinsic motivation for personal growth. He emphasizes the founder's role in intimately understanding and solving problems, advocates for commitment to the problem while staying open to innovative solutions, and provides valuable perspectives on scaling as a leader, including the importance of embracing discomfort and establishing clear decision-making processes.

    Here are some highlights from the episode:

    Defining success: Mike challenges the common notion of success tied to external measures like company valuation or financial success. He emphasizes the intrinsic motivation of learning and personal growth as more sustainable sources of fulfillment, rather than tying one's self-worth to the success of a company.Proximity to the problem: Mike highlights the significance of founders immersing themselves in the problems they aim to solve. He contends that a deep understanding of the problem is crucial for early company advancement. Attachment vs. commitment: Mike advocates for founders to be committed to the problem they want to solve but not overly attached to a specific solution. This openness to alternative approaches fosters innovation and accelerates progress.Scaling as a founder and leader: Embracing discomfort as a pathway to learning, Mike emphasized the value of curiosity, drawing insights from experienced individuals, and establishing clear decision-making processes.

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  • “There is so much unmet legal need within businesses of all sizes that I don't see AI as a threat, I see it as an opportunity to make legal more important and more valuable to the businesses that it's serving.”
    — Brett Colvin

    In this episode, Jeff delves into the vibrant realm of legal services alongside Brett Colvin, a fellow founder based in Calgary. Tune in as Brett unfolds his remarkable path from law school to transforming the legal landscape through his own venture, Goodlawyer.

    Here are some highlights from the episode:

    Solving industry challenges: Brett highlights how Goodlawyer addresses critical issues in the legal sector, including inefficient billing practices and industry hesitancy towards innovation.Harnessing the power of AI: Explore the intersection of technology and law as Brett delves into the integration of AI in legal processes and its potential to boost efficiency.Legal services as a business imperative: Brett emphasizes the vital role of legal services in the business domain and how they can be used as a strategic tool for effective risk management and the unlocking of untapped business opportunities.Capital chronicles in Canada: Brett openly shares his experiences navigating the Canadian market, shedding light on the complexities of raising capital and alternative approaches entrepreneurs can explore when seeking financial support in the distinctive landscape of Canadian business.

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  • “I think entrepreneurship is the profession of the future, and I think ‘entrepreneurial’ is the trait of the future.”
    — Mark Harrison

    In this episode, Jeff sits down with Mark Harrison, Founder of MH3 Collective, who shares his approach to life and entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of self-management and taking control of one's destiny. Mark highlights the significance of building relationships and going above and beyond to solve clients' problems. He shares stories of taking risks and making personal sacrifices to achieve success.

    In this conversation, Mark discusses the undervalued opportunities in the market and the importance of entrepreneurship in Canada. He believes that entrepreneurship is the profession of the future and provides innovation and resilience.

    Here are some highlights from the episode:

    How self-management and owning one's career are essential for success in entrepreneurship.Building strong relationships and going above and beyond for clients can lead to long-term success.Taking risks and making personal sacrifices are often necessary to achieve goals.Data and insights play a crucial role in decision-making for partnerships and sponsorships.

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  • “This is the element of humanity and compassion and empathy of banking that we don't have today that really needs to come in.”

    — Dr. Mohamad Sawwaf

    Join us on this episode of Behind the Brand as we sit down with Dr. Mohamad Sawwaf, a dynamic force in the world of finance, ethics, and innovation. With an impressive academic background and a diverse portfolio of experiences, Dr. Sawwaf has dedicated his career to transforming the financial landscape and driving inclusive practices.

    As the founder and CEO of Manzil, a company focused on ethically-conscious products and halal financing and investments, Dr. Sawwaf has been at the forefront of pioneering ethical financial solutions that empower communities in Canada while adhering to the principles of Islamic finance. His journey encompasses roles in academia, advisory boards, and impactful organizations, all working towards one common goal–financial inclusion.

    Takeaways include:

    Financial inclusivity and ethical banking: Manzil prioritizes financial inclusivity with an ethical approach, demonstrating the success of Islamic finance principles in serving a diverse demographic.Challenges in partnering and regulatory support: Exploring the potential benefits of official regulatory support, the discussion reflects on the UK's successful creation of an Islamic banking framework.Governmental role and policy changes: Highlighting the crucial role of government, the conversation underscores the need for proactive policy changes to support financial inclusivity.

    This episode is filled with insights on financial inclusivity, challenges in collaboration with larger institutions, and the crucial role of government and policy changes in fostering a competitive and inclusive financial landscape in Canada.

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  • “I think specialization is really important. Do what you're really, really good at, be really well known for it, and then they will start giving you other things to do because they know that they can depend on you.”

    — Kirsten Gauthier


    Join us in this episode of Behind the Brand as we sit down with Kirsten Gauthier, the founder of Public Office. From her early days in advertising to her entrepreneurial ventures, Kirsten shares valuable insights on adaptability, the changing dynamics of the creative industry, and the power of entrepreneurship with a social mission.

    Takeaways include:

    Adaptability and entrepreneurial journey: Kirsten's career journey is a captivating tale of adaptability and hands-on learning. Starting in advertising, she later made a daring entrepreneurial leap, establishing her production company, Production Kitchen. Changing dynamics in the creative industry: In the fiercely competitive agency business, Kirsten sheds light on the evolving dynamics. Specialization and client relationships take center stage, and she advocates for a hub-and-spoke model. Social impact and entrepreneurial wisdom: Goodfoot Delivery, a venture with a social mission, stands as a beacon of entrepreneurship. Kirsten shares her wisdom on viewing failure as a crucial learning process and the personal aspects of the entrepreneurial journey.

    This episode is filled with inspiration, entrepreneurial wisdom, and a deep dive into the ever-changing landscape of the creative industry.

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  • “We want to showcase that just because we're a small business doesn't mean we can't have a big impact.”
    — Connor Curran

    Connor Curran started Local Laundry equipped with a Google search, 50 dollars, and a vision for a mission-driven clothing company. But starting was the easy part. Many lessons, and many pivots later, Local Laundry is now a widely recognized Canadian brand.

    This week’s episode of Behind the Brand unveils the unique path to building a small business. Here are some insights from the episode:

    Local Laundry chose to manufacture locally in Canada to differentiate themselves from competitors and to honour their values. Despite the higher costs, they believe that offering a better quality product and being true to their values gives them a competitive edge. The company has a goal to donate a million dollars to local charities by 2030. Connor believes that being a profitable, well-run business allows them to invest in the community.

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  • “Problems are great things once they’re identified, and if there’s a willingness to address them. Because they alert you to a way to get better.”
    — Senator Colin Deacon

    In this episode, we sit down with ‌Senator Colin Deacon, a leading voice in Canada's financial landscape. With a keen eye for innovation and a passion for empowering consumers, Senator Deacon's perspective is nothing short of enlightening.


    Senator Deacon believes that open banking could be a game-changer for Canadians, shifting control of peronsal financial data from banks back to customers. Imagine having the power to improve your credit score as a new Canadian, paving the way for better financial opportunities. It's about creating opportunities from problems, a mindset that transcends sectors.


    Here are some highlights from the episode:

    Innovation as an attitude, and the need for more of it in our government services. The need for regulatory change in Canada, especially in the banking and financial sectors. The transformative potential of open banking.


    It's time to empower consumers and enhance competition in Canada's financial landscape. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and stay ahead in the world of finance.

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  • “We're in this position and in this space where we can do things differently than what incumbents do, because we have the opportunity to reimagine it.”
    — Hanna Zaidi

    With her extensive regulatory compliance expertise and forward-thinking approach, Hanna Zaidi has been a driving force behind innovation and transparency in the financial sector. Her leadership has propelled Wealthsimple to the forefront of digital finance, offering accessible and user-friendly investment solutions to empower individuals on their financial journeys. Under her guidance, Wealthsimple has played a pivotal role in advocating for modernizing payment systems and open banking frameworks in Canada, with the aim of enhancing competition and improving financial services for consumers nationwide.

    In this episode, Hanna and Jeff deep dive into the transformative potential of modernizing payment systems, discussing the benefits for consumers and its impact on competition within the Canadian financial landscape.

    Here are some highlights from the episode:

    The lack of competition and modernization in the Canadian financial system can lead to higher costs for consumers and limited access to better services. Trust factors are changing; younger generations prioritize user experience, speed, and convenience in trusting financial providers.Compliance is a chance for innovation, not a hindrance. Fintechs can gain a competitive edge by mastering regulatory requirements.

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  • “Another thing the best companies are doing is just moving fast or being very clear in the interview process.”
    — Ilya Brotzky

    While working in Brazil, Ilya Brotzky joined a startup accelerator that aimed to connect American invcestors with Brazilian startups. Immersed in the startup culture, he observed a pool of skilled Brazilian developers wanting to move to Canada but facing language and soft skills barriers.

    Upon his 2014 return to Vancouver and in the midst of his own job search, he identified a demand for developers but the lack of supply in Canada. Drawing from his Brazilian experience, he started an online school to teach developers English which quickly evolved into VanHack, a talent and recruitment platform. Now, with over 370,000 members across 100+ countries, VanHack strives to create a borderless world for tech talent.

    Here are some highlights from the episode:

    Creating defined career paths is crucial for preventing employee stagnation and offering a clear sense of direction within the organization.Offering engaging challenges sustains employee motivation and growth, while nurturing both personal and professional development.A clear mission and compelling purpose in an organization motivate candidates and foster deeper engagement in their roles.

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  • “The opportunity for me is like to look at the challenges as part of the fun of it, right? … How do you overcome those challenges in a way that pushes the business forward?”
    — Karen Danudjaja

    Frustrated by the limited non-caffeinated options in cafes and a desire to move beyond commercial real estate, Karen Danudjaja harnessed her entrepreneurial prowess to launch Blume – a brand that would transform our approach to daily beverages.

    Nearly 6 years later, Blume has emerged as North America’s premier superfood brand, offering a range of locally-crafted products comprising 100 percent natural and organic ingredients.

    Here are some highlights from the episode:

    Instead of fixating solely on the destination, find joy in the day-to-day process, learn from experiences, and take ownership of your happiness. Every setback presents a chance to adapt, refine strategies, and enhance processes for future success.Successful entrepreneurship involves navigating challenges, uncertainties, and setbacks while maintaining the determination to keep moving forward.

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  • “I loved being in the storm fighting fires and, and seeing the unbelievable potential that things have and, you know, trying to bring that to reality.”
    — Joe Parenteau

    When it came time to upgrade his dinnerware, Joe Parenteau looked to the usual suspects—EQ3, Pottery Barn, and West Elm. However, he was disappointed to find that the shopping experience for premium home goods lacked inspiration and the simple joy he experienced at IKEA.

    Fast-forward to 2019 when Joe co-founded Fable, a home goods company that designs premium dinnerware products while focusing on transparency, sustainability, and ethical production.

    In this episode, Joe shares invaluable insights and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. He divulges his secrets to building a strong founding team, emphasizing the importance of having problem solvers onboard – individuals who can not only identify challenges but also present solutions with ease.

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  • “This is a fluid landscape, whether it's how we manage our people or how we identify different markets, we've just understood the world is always changing.”
    — Michael Ryan

    Michael Ryan's love for pushing boundaries ignited his extraordinary journey into the world of foot care, starting as a certified pedorthist in Canada. For over 14 years, he honed his expertise within outpatient settings, from private practices to prestigious university health centers. Driven by an unwavering desire to make a difference and improve the field, Michael explored new horizons that could revolutionize foot care approaches. Now, at Kintec: Footwear + Orthotics, Michael leads the charge in embracing innovative technologies to provide personalized solutions and exceptional customer service.

    Here are some highlights from the episode:

    The significance of maintaining physical health to achieve personal and professional success.The power of technology in elevating customer experiences and fostering brand loyalty.Exploring how incremental actions can pave the way for transformative outcomes.

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    Discover more about Kintec: Footwear + Orthotics here.

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  • “Of course make your debt reduction a priority, but over here you also need to start learning to love yourself enough to put money aside for your future. And that is an act of self-love.”
    — Lesley-Anne Scorgie

    Lesley-Anne Scorgie’s passion for personal finance ignited at a young age. At just ten years old, she took a hundred-dollar birthday gift from her grandparents and made her first investment by purchasing a Canada Savings Bond.

    As Lesley-Anne’s financial literacy grew, so did her ambition. By the age of fourteen, she had already begun investing in mutual funds, setting her on a path to becoming a millionaire by the age of twenty-five.

    In this episode, Lesley-Anne offers valuable advice on shifting your mindset about money, emphasizing the importance of establishing consistent money habits to ensure long-term financial security and success.

    Looking for more?

    Discover more about MeVest here.

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  • “Brand trust is gonna be critical and it's always been critical, but in the age of AI, brand trust is gonna be critical.”
    — Darby Sieben

    In the late 1990s, Darby Sieben embarked on his journey as an internet early adopter, eventually founding his own digital marketing company. Over the years, he has earned a reputation as a respected industry leader, driving impactful change and spearheading product strategies.

    Darby's remarkable ability to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of product development is evident through his consistent innovation and customer-centric approach. He thrives on tackling complex challenges and seizing emerging opportunities.

    Here are some highlights from the episode:

    How to leverage dedicated landing pages to enhance ad campaigns and achieve a higher ROIInsightful predictions on the profound impact AI will have on organizationsValuable tips on successful remote leadership in today's work environment

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    Discover more about Unbounce here.

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  • “Sport is a tool for social change that you can make [a] meaningful impact in communities, you can influence consumers.”
    — Russell Reimer

    Having produced for NBC during the 2000 and 2002 Olympics, Russell Reimer recognized the power of storytelling in captivating audiences and generating interest in the games. This insight inspired him to establish Manifesto Sport Management, where he continues to tell the stories of iconic athletes, including Toronto Maple Leafs star Mitch Marner, hockey legend Mark Messier, and Olympians Mark McMorris and Hayley Wickenheiser.

    A prominent figure in Canada’s sports scene, Russell has worked with world leaders developing successful programs like Sport for Life, and spearheading the community movement, All Sport One Day, which provides free sport discovery opportunities for children.

    Here are some of the highlights from the episode:

    Storytelling is incredibly powerful and the ability to craft compelling narratives and communicate effectively is essential in various areas of life.In a competitive environment, accepting rejection as a step toward success is crucial.Delivering candid feedback is key in guiding individuals toward improvement.

    Enjoy!

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  • “So there's been, I think this huge change in how Canadians sort of want and need to bank.”
    — Ian Burns

    Established in 1938, Servus Credit Union is a member-owned, community-based financial institution. With an impressive network of over 100 branches and a staggering 380,000 owners, Servus Credit Union proudly holds the title of being the largest credit union in Alberta.

    Leading the charge at Servus Credit Union is Ian Burns, a trailblazer in finance, entrepreneurship, and relationship management. Ian's extensive experience and innovative mindset have made him a true pioneer who fearlessly challenges industry norms in the world of business and finance.

    Here are some of the highlights from the episode:

    Credit unions play a crucial role in fostering trust, collaboration, and financial empowerment within local communities.Open banking and the benefits, challenges, and transformative opportunities it brings to the Canadian financial landscape.The value of diverse perspectives and embracing different ways of thinking

    Enjoy!

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  • “I don't really view my own successes as my own. If I had one superpower, it's about hiring people that are smarter than me and let 'em fly, you know? Giving them the tools and the right environment for them to win because that's what everybody wants, ultimately.”
    — Michele Guimond

    As an avid backcountry skier, downhill mountain biker, and trail runner, it only makes sense that Michele Guimond found her way to working at MEC. After spending a little over a decade travelling abroad, Michele graduated from Emily Carr University of Art + Design and pursued a career in retail marketing.

    Over the next few years, she led marketing at top-tier retail brands during periods of rapid growth. Ultimately leading her to MEC, where she is responsible for sharing the MEC brand with the world.

    In this episode, Michele shares her experiences building community brands and strategies for effective leadership.

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  • “The other thing I would say too is it's important to celebrate decisions where you decided not to do something, that was maybe a great idea. So products you thought about launching that you decided not to launch and in hindsight that was a great decision.”
    — Peter Furnish

    Peter Furnish has had a long and exciting career, full of interesting experiences that have helped him learn valuable lessons. His journey has taken him to visit Walt Disney's home in California, where he gained insights into the creative genius behind the Disney brand. He also had the opportunity to witness Sir Richard Branson's daring promotional stunts for Virgin Mobile, which taught him the importance of taking risks to create a buzz.

    During his career, Furnish has worked with some of the most iconic brands, including The Walt Disney Company, Labatt Breweries, Cineplex, Virgin Mobile, and Starbucks. Each of these experiences has provided him with valuable lessons that have helped him build a successful career.

    Here are some of the highlights from the episode:

    Failure is a valuable teacher — always use its lessons to improveBeing flexible and unlearning what you know are essential when transitioning between companies of different categories and growth stagesCreativity is key to making an impactThe differences between founder-led and founder-inspired businessesBuild a network and learn from those around you

    Enjoy!

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