Ignite Creativity with Marysia Czarski Tue, 21 Apr 2026 02:28:54 -0400 https://www.ignitioncreativity.com en-us © 2026 Ignite Creativity with Marysia Czarski yes Support this Podcast 6c894184-bb65-5e7c-aa34-c1dbb4eecac9 Ignition Creativity episodic false Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Entrepreneurship, innovation, growth, business development, leadership, motivation, teamwork, business challenges, take action Ignition Creativity https://storage.buzzsprout.com/yaburozize5w140q6l6ahkul0d3r?.jpg Ignite Creativity with Marysia Czarski https://www.ignitioncreativity.com Episode #032: Bragging Rights with Lisa Bragg Episode #032: Bragging Rights with Lisa Bragg Living with the surname Bragg, Lisa has wittingly leveraged ways to use it in the context of her life’s work! I talk with Lisa Bragg about mastering the art and science of authentic self-promotion and when she’s seen being too humble cost people international deals and when bragging right has unlocked opportunities leading to untold fortunes.

Jealousy is a lagging indicator of desire.

Have you ever felt a pang of jealousy when you heard about someone else’s accomplishments or success? Consider that your internal smoke detector letting you know that you are seeking an opportunity! I talk with Lisa Bragg, the author of Bragging Rights, How to Talk about Your Work Using Purposeful Self Promotion, about her insights from her extensive research study on bragging and self-promotion conducted with professionals internationally.

Listen in to learn:

  • It takes time and energy to get traction on your idea, so grab your megaphone and promote your good work
  • It’s common that an overnight success has actually been twenty years in the making
  • Why having your success story ready to roll is important!  Don’t expect someone to keep digging it out of you
  • Invisibility is corrosive.  It is important to stand out, not fit in
  • 85% of us want to hear about your success
  • Go forward together, partner, and cause the change you want to see

Support the show

]]> Living with the surname Bragg, Lisa has wittingly leveraged ways to use it in the context of her life’s work! I talk with Lisa Bragg about mastering the art and science of authentic self-promotion and when she’s seen being too humble cost people international deals and when bragging right has unlocked opportunities leading to untold fortunes.

Jealousy is a lagging indicator of desire.

Have you ever felt a pang of jealousy when you heard about someone else’s accomplishments or success? Consider that your internal smoke detector letting you know that you are seeking an opportunity! I talk with Lisa Bragg, the author of Bragging Rights, How to Talk about Your Work Using Purposeful Self Promotion, about her insights from her extensive research study on bragging and self-promotion conducted with professionals internationally.

Listen in to learn:

  • It takes time and energy to get traction on your idea, so grab your megaphone and promote your good work
  • It’s common that an overnight success has actually been twenty years in the making
  • Why having your success story ready to roll is important!  Don’t expect someone to keep digging it out of you
  • Invisibility is corrosive.  It is important to stand out, not fit in
  • 85% of us want to hear about your success
  • Go forward together, partner, and cause the change you want to see

Support the show

]]> https://www.ignitioncreativity.com/blog/episode-32-lisa-bragg Ignition Creativity Buzzsprout-13116873 Wed, 28 Jun 2023 09:00:00 -0400 2076 Creativity, Creative, leadership, Innovation, Collaboration, Change, Change leadership, Collaboration Leadership, Design Thinking, Agile management, Business coaching, business coach 2 32 full false Episode #031: The Difference Gratitude Makes with Michele Bailey Episode #031: The Difference Gratitude Makes with Michele Bailey Have you ever felt unacknowledged for your work or contributions? What did that do to your motivation, engagement, and commitment to producing results?  I talk with Michele Bailey about the necessary and sometimes forgotten role of offering gratitude to others and the transformative impact it can have.  While you may be familiar with the practice of acknowledging what we are grateful for in the form of a Gratitude Journal, this is about turning the attention onto others and how small gestures of gratitude go a long way.  As you acknowledge the efforts of others, you will feel the benefits too!

Here is what we discussed:

  • Always, reflection is powerful and necessary
  • How do you make people sticky?  Because sticky people stay!
  • The interconnection between personal goals, work goals and engagement
  • Push gratitude outwards to build deep relationships with those around you
  • Look for and acknowledge the creative acts of others
  • The pathway to filling up others ‘fuel tank’ for creativity

Support the show

]]> Have you ever felt unacknowledged for your work or contributions? What did that do to your motivation, engagement, and commitment to producing results?  I talk with Michele Bailey about the necessary and sometimes forgotten role of offering gratitude to others and the transformative impact it can have.  While you may be familiar with the practice of acknowledging what we are grateful for in the form of a Gratitude Journal, this is about turning the attention onto others and how small gestures of gratitude go a long way.  As you acknowledge the efforts of others, you will feel the benefits too!

Here is what we discussed:

  • Always, reflection is powerful and necessary
  • How do you make people sticky?  Because sticky people stay!
  • The interconnection between personal goals, work goals and engagement
  • Push gratitude outwards to build deep relationships with those around you
  • Look for and acknowledge the creative acts of others
  • The pathway to filling up others ‘fuel tank’ for creativity

Support the show

]]> https://www.ignitioncreativity.com/blog/episode-31-michele-bailey Ignition Creativity Buzzsprout-12996091 Wed, 07 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0400 1557 Creativity, Creative, leadership, Innovation, Collaboration, Change, Change leadership, Collaboration Leadership, Design Thinking, Agile management, Business coaching, business coach 2 31 full false Episode #030: Today’s Mission-Critical Work of Scenario Planning to be Ready for Tomorrow with Maggie Kolkena Episode #030: Today’s Mission-Critical Work of Scenario Planning to be Ready for Tomorrow with Maggie Kolkena In this episode, we introduce you to the world of scenario planning and its role in making your organization more resilient in the future.  Find out how this work will help you better manage the next disruption coming your way! 

In this conversation with Maggie, we discuss the following: 

  • The limits of traditional strategic planning
  • Today’s complex, fast-paced world demands Scenario Thinking. 
  • Scenario Planning will help you make sense of everything coming at you.
  • Unknow, doesn’t mean unknowable. 
  • Creating and using scenarios gets easier and faster with practice (and fun if you let it be)
  • Ways to become a trend nerd!  Because you don’t have to be a futurist to be a competent trend watcher
  • How design thinking and creative problem-solving capabilities complement being a Scenario Planner

Support the show

]]> In this episode, we introduce you to the world of scenario planning and its role in making your organization more resilient in the future.  Find out how this work will help you better manage the next disruption coming your way! 

In this conversation with Maggie, we discuss the following: 

  • The limits of traditional strategic planning
  • Today’s complex, fast-paced world demands Scenario Thinking. 
  • Scenario Planning will help you make sense of everything coming at you.
  • Unknow, doesn’t mean unknowable. 
  • Creating and using scenarios gets easier and faster with practice (and fun if you let it be)
  • Ways to become a trend nerd!  Because you don’t have to be a futurist to be a competent trend watcher
  • How design thinking and creative problem-solving capabilities complement being a Scenario Planner

Support the show

]]> https://www.ignitioncreativity.com/blog/episode-30-maggie-kolkena Ignition Creativity Buzzsprout-12643423 Wed, 19 Apr 2023 09:00:00 -0400 2131 Creativity, Creative, leadership, Innovation, Collaboration, Change, Change leadership, Collaboration Leadership, Design Thinking, Agile management, Business coaching, business coach 2 30 full false Episode #029: Be Curious, Not Judgemental with Genein Letford Episode #029: Be Curious, Not Judgemental with Genein Letford Why Unconscious Bias Also Impacts Creativity & Innovation

What is holding back your creative potential and, ultimately, your Human potential? This is the question I delve into with my guest on Igniting Creativity. Genein Letford is energized by this question and passionately engaged in helping people discover the answers.  

Here is what else we discussed:

  • The best way to get novelty into your thinking and strategy (should include people who you don’t usually include)
  • The importance of problem-finding in the creative process
  • What you pay attention to is very important
  • Go out and discover!
  • The importance of keeping divergent and convergent thinking separate from each other
  • What you are being ‘spoon-fed’ without your knowledge

Support the show

]]> Why Unconscious Bias Also Impacts Creativity & Innovation

What is holding back your creative potential and, ultimately, your Human potential? This is the question I delve into with my guest on Igniting Creativity. Genein Letford is energized by this question and passionately engaged in helping people discover the answers.  

Here is what else we discussed:

  • The best way to get novelty into your thinking and strategy (should include people who you don’t usually include)
  • The importance of problem-finding in the creative process
  • What you pay attention to is very important
  • Go out and discover!
  • The importance of keeping divergent and convergent thinking separate from each other
  • What you are being ‘spoon-fed’ without your knowledge

Support the show

]]> https://www.ignitioncreativity.com/blog/episode-29-genein-letford Ignition Creativity Buzzsprout-12288768 Wed, 22 Feb 2023 09:00:00 -0500 2459 Creativity, Creative, leadership, Innovation, Collaboration, Change, Change leadership, Collaboration Leadership, Design Thinking, Agile management, Business coaching, business coach 2 29 full false Episode #028: How to Humanize Digital Transformation with Michael Ackerbauer Episode #028: How to Humanize Digital Transformation with Michael Ackerbauer 25 years of experience at IBM leading transformational projects have provided Michael Ackerbauer with a unique perspective on the role of technology, creativity, and innovation.  Listen in to hear ‘Macker’s’ sage advice to boost your creativity.

Support the show

]]> 25 years of experience at IBM leading transformational projects have provided Michael Ackerbauer with a unique perspective on the role of technology, creativity, and innovation.  Listen in to hear ‘Macker’s’ sage advice to boost your creativity.

Support the show

]]> https://www.ignitioncreativity.com/blog/episode-28-michael-ackerbauer Ignition Creativity Buzzsprout-12192825 Wed, 08 Feb 2023 09:00:00 -0500 2683 Creativity, Creative, leadership, Innovation, Collaboration, Change, Change leadership, Collaboration Leadership, Design Thinking, Agile management, Business coaching, business coach 2 28 full false Episode #027: Crazy Ideas Fueled by Purpose with Andrea Robinson Episode #027: Crazy Ideas Fueled by Purpose with Andrea Robinson How the collision of artistic creativity and law school produced an award-winning entrepreneur. 

In this episode, Andrea Robinson shares her journey that shaped her scaling a business that in the very early days earned her the reaction, ‘you must be crazy’! The company she founded, Robinson Global Management, advances innovative, ethical, sustainable & complex procurements globally.  She shares how people reacted to the concept of ethical and sustainable procurement in the early days and how she continues to spark creativity in her team and herself.

Andrea is the Founder, President & CEO, Principal Consultant of Robinson Global Management, a Women Business Enterprise Council Canada (WBE Canada), and Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council (CAMSC) Certified company.  She received a 2020 WBE Canada Leader Award for exemplary leadership and community contribution and received the 2019 WBE Canada Rising Star Award for economic, business, and innovative impact in the diverse supplier community.  She is a well-known practitioner in the Canadian public sector procurement area. Her projects include, affordable housing, water and wastewater treatment plant upgrades, solid waste management redevelopment, renewable energy planning and diversification, transit and roads, healthcare systems, and hospitals, educational, recreational, and international competition facilities, military, and secure asset redevelopment.

Support the show

]]> How the collision of artistic creativity and law school produced an award-winning entrepreneur. 

In this episode, Andrea Robinson shares her journey that shaped her scaling a business that in the very early days earned her the reaction, ‘you must be crazy’! The company she founded, Robinson Global Management, advances innovative, ethical, sustainable & complex procurements globally.  She shares how people reacted to the concept of ethical and sustainable procurement in the early days and how she continues to spark creativity in her team and herself.

Andrea is the Founder, President & CEO, Principal Consultant of Robinson Global Management, a Women Business Enterprise Council Canada (WBE Canada), and Canadian Aboriginal and Minority Supplier Council (CAMSC) Certified company.  She received a 2020 WBE Canada Leader Award for exemplary leadership and community contribution and received the 2019 WBE Canada Rising Star Award for economic, business, and innovative impact in the diverse supplier community.  She is a well-known practitioner in the Canadian public sector procurement area. Her projects include, affordable housing, water and wastewater treatment plant upgrades, solid waste management redevelopment, renewable energy planning and diversification, transit and roads, healthcare systems, and hospitals, educational, recreational, and international competition facilities, military, and secure asset redevelopment.

Support the show

]]> https://www.ignitioncreativity.com/blog/episode-27-andrea-robinson Ignition Creativity Buzzsprout-12016073 Wed, 11 Jan 2023 09:00:00 -0500 3231 Creativity, Creative, leadership, Innovation, Collaboration, Change, Change leadership, Collaboration Leadership, Design Thinking, Agile management, Business coaching, business coach 2 27 full false Episode #026: What Doesn’t Kill You Might Make You Stronger with Nadia Hamilton Episode #026: What Doesn’t Kill You Might Make You Stronger with Nadia Hamilton In this episode, Nadia Hamilton of Magnusmode talks with such energy about what it takes to recover, learn and iterate from those moments of failure and utter breakdown in a way that will translate to any kind of business. Her company's mission is to create practical tools that improve everyday experiences and enable people with cognitive disabilities to participate in the world in ways that are meaningful to them. 

Nadia Hamilton is a passionate entrepreneur who was inspired by her autistic brother Troy to build MagnusCards: an innovative app that provides digital, step-by-step guides to support home and community living. Each guide is powered by global brands, including Trader Joe's, CIBC, Kraft Heinz, M&T Bank, New York City Transit, Colgate-Palmolive, San Francisco International Airport, A&W, WestJet, and many more, all of which have partnered with Magnusmode to build inclusive experiences for an accessible world.

CLICK HERE to learn more from the Create Velocity Podcast.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, Nadia Hamilton of Magnusmode talks with such energy about what it takes to recover, learn and iterate from those moments of failure and utter breakdown in a way that will translate to any kind of business. Her company's mission is to create practical tools that improve everyday experiences and enable people with cognitive disabilities to participate in the world in ways that are meaningful to them. 

Nadia Hamilton is a passionate entrepreneur who was inspired by her autistic brother Troy to build MagnusCards: an innovative app that provides digital, step-by-step guides to support home and community living. Each guide is powered by global brands, including Trader Joe's, CIBC, Kraft Heinz, M&T Bank, New York City Transit, Colgate-Palmolive, San Francisco International Airport, A&W, WestJet, and many more, all of which have partnered with Magnusmode to build inclusive experiences for an accessible world.

CLICK HERE to learn more from the Create Velocity Podcast.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-9538307 Wed, 17 Nov 2021 09:00:00 -0500 1949 1 26 full false Episode #025: The Greater Good with Madeleine Shaw Episode #025: The Greater Good with Madeleine Shaw Social Entrepreneurship and the Everyday Entrepreneur

Madeleine Shaw is a multiple award-winning social entrepreneur and author based on unceded Coast Salish territory (Vancouver BC). She is best known as the co-founder of Aisle (formerly Lunapads), one of the first groundbreaking ventures in the world to commercialize reusable menstrual products, today a thriving industry. In 2014, she founded G Day, a national event series for tween girls and their supporters, and in 2017 she founded Nestworks, a family-friendly coworking community. In her upcoming first book, The Greater Good: Social Entrepreneurship for Everyday People Who Want to Change the World, she offers encouraging tips and reflections for aspiring impact-based entrepreneurs.

CLICK HERE to learn more from the Create Velocity Podcast.

Support the show

]]> Social Entrepreneurship and the Everyday Entrepreneur

Madeleine Shaw is a multiple award-winning social entrepreneur and author based on unceded Coast Salish territory (Vancouver BC). She is best known as the co-founder of Aisle (formerly Lunapads), one of the first groundbreaking ventures in the world to commercialize reusable menstrual products, today a thriving industry. In 2014, she founded G Day, a national event series for tween girls and their supporters, and in 2017 she founded Nestworks, a family-friendly coworking community. In her upcoming first book, The Greater Good: Social Entrepreneurship for Everyday People Who Want to Change the World, she offers encouraging tips and reflections for aspiring impact-based entrepreneurs.

CLICK HERE to learn more from the Create Velocity Podcast.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-9267754 Wed, 29 Sep 2021 09:00:00 -0400 2358 1 25 full false Episode #024: Social Media with Lisa Pedersen Episode #024: Social Media with Lisa Pedersen We are in the age that every single entrepreneur needs a social media plan integrated into their marketing strategy. If this feels like a daunting thought, stay with me, you are in the right place!

In this week's Create Velocity Podcast, I talk with Lisa Pedersen about finding your comfort zone with social media, why your ideal client needs to see you being 'social' and the importance of authentic engagement. Lisa also points out some watch-outs for how you engage.

Lisa Pedersen is a social media mentor and digital strategist who empowers business owners to embrace their digital presence and show up in a way that's authentic and engaging, while teaching the skills to do it themselves. She has been featured on podcasts, written for the inaugural issue of Mama Brain Magazine and is currently working on her first social media course for business owners.

CLICK HERE to access additional resources and a free course. 

Support the show

]]> We are in the age that every single entrepreneur needs a social media plan integrated into their marketing strategy. If this feels like a daunting thought, stay with me, you are in the right place!

In this week's Create Velocity Podcast, I talk with Lisa Pedersen about finding your comfort zone with social media, why your ideal client needs to see you being 'social' and the importance of authentic engagement. Lisa also points out some watch-outs for how you engage.

Lisa Pedersen is a social media mentor and digital strategist who empowers business owners to embrace their digital presence and show up in a way that's authentic and engaging, while teaching the skills to do it themselves. She has been featured on podcasts, written for the inaugural issue of Mama Brain Magazine and is currently working on her first social media course for business owners.

CLICK HERE to access additional resources and a free course. 

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-8074771 Tue, 09 Mar 2021 09:00:00 -0500 2063 1 24 full false Episode #023: Why You Need a Human Resources Strategy with Doreen Harvey Episode #023: Why You Need a Human Resources Strategy with Doreen Harvey A human resources strategy is so much more than how much you pay your team members.

No matter what size your company is, you need an HR (Human Resources) strategy. And whether you have employees or a bench of contractors, this strategy is a very important foundation for business growth. 

In this episode, I chat with Doreen Harvey who is a seasoned HR strategist. Doreen shares many important considerations regarding how you manage people in your business and then she zeros in on the two most important areas to go to work on first.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> A human resources strategy is so much more than how much you pay your team members.

No matter what size your company is, you need an HR (Human Resources) strategy. And whether you have employees or a bench of contractors, this strategy is a very important foundation for business growth. 

In this episode, I chat with Doreen Harvey who is a seasoned HR strategist. Doreen shares many important considerations regarding how you manage people in your business and then she zeros in on the two most important areas to go to work on first.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-7922638 Tue, 23 Feb 2021 09:00:00 -0500 1897 1 23 full false Episode #022: Living Your Values to Stay Alive with Kevin Wilson Episode #022: Living Your Values to Stay Alive with Kevin Wilson You don't have to look too far to get inspiration and ideas from entrepreneurs who have been building back, learning from, and creating a new during the pandemic. My guest on this week's Create Velocity podcast, Kevin Wilson, Chairman and CEO of Buzz Franchise Brands, is one of them. With franchises like Pool Scouts (pool cleaning), Home Clean Heroes (residential home cleaning) and The British Swim School (swimming lessons), Kevin and his team have worked long hours to ensure the business owners of these franchises were supported. Hard work was definitely a part of the formula, however, at the core of it was living Buzz Franchise's values.  More than ever these values mattered and helped shepherd decision making for Kevin and his team.

Kevin shared his values statement with us here. Can you articulate your company's values and can your employees do the same?  Now more than ever, this is critical for your business. Do you need some resources to do that? Let us know! We are here to help.


ABOUT OUR GUEST

Kevin Wilson is the Chairman and CEO of Buzz Franchise Brands, a multi-brand franchising and the former owner of Mosquito Joe, a 300 unit system before selling to Neighborly in 2018. Prior to this he spent several years in Private Equity,  was an Executive with South African Airways, and was a Consultant with Bain and Company.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and guest.


Support the show

]]> You don't have to look too far to get inspiration and ideas from entrepreneurs who have been building back, learning from, and creating a new during the pandemic. My guest on this week's Create Velocity podcast, Kevin Wilson, Chairman and CEO of Buzz Franchise Brands, is one of them. With franchises like Pool Scouts (pool cleaning), Home Clean Heroes (residential home cleaning) and The British Swim School (swimming lessons), Kevin and his team have worked long hours to ensure the business owners of these franchises were supported. Hard work was definitely a part of the formula, however, at the core of it was living Buzz Franchise's values.  More than ever these values mattered and helped shepherd decision making for Kevin and his team.

Kevin shared his values statement with us here. Can you articulate your company's values and can your employees do the same?  Now more than ever, this is critical for your business. Do you need some resources to do that? Let us know! We are here to help.


ABOUT OUR GUEST

Kevin Wilson is the Chairman and CEO of Buzz Franchise Brands, a multi-brand franchising and the former owner of Mosquito Joe, a 300 unit system before selling to Neighborly in 2018. Prior to this he spent several years in Private Equity,  was an Executive with South African Airways, and was a Consultant with Bain and Company.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and guest.


Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-7685206 Tue, 09 Feb 2021 09:00:00 -0500 1550 1 22 full false Episode #021: Take a Moment for Gratitude with Liz Doyle Harmer Episode #021: Take a Moment for Gratitude with Liz Doyle Harmer This episode is dedicated to the act of gratitude. It has been a roller coaster of a year and in some cases downright awful and in others, has had some lovely Silver linings. As an entrepreneur I know that taking time out and reflecting isn't always one of our strengths. However I'd like you to join me and my guest this week Liz Doyle Harmer to do just that. Liz will end the podcast with a gratitude meditation.

And with gratitude I thank you for listening to our podcasts and engaging in this community.  Thank you for it all. Here's to a healthy and vibrant 2021.


ABOUT OUR GUEST

Liz Doyle Harmer is an entrepreneur, life + leadership coach, podcaster, and mother of four. Through workshops, teaching, coaching + writing she has helped hundreds of people lead more fulfilling and resilient lives through research-based, mindful-awareness tools. She is co-owner of Afterglow Studio, co-host of The Afterglow Podcast and founder of Liz Doyle Harmer Coaching.   She holds an MBA from McGill University, a CPCC from Co-Active Training Institute and a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training from Downward Dog. In her free time, you can find her running along the Lake Ontario boardwalk in the beach neighbourhood of Toronto or spending time with family.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and guest.


Support the show

]]> This episode is dedicated to the act of gratitude. It has been a roller coaster of a year and in some cases downright awful and in others, has had some lovely Silver linings. As an entrepreneur I know that taking time out and reflecting isn't always one of our strengths. However I'd like you to join me and my guest this week Liz Doyle Harmer to do just that. Liz will end the podcast with a gratitude meditation.

And with gratitude I thank you for listening to our podcasts and engaging in this community.  Thank you for it all. Here's to a healthy and vibrant 2021.


ABOUT OUR GUEST

Liz Doyle Harmer is an entrepreneur, life + leadership coach, podcaster, and mother of four. Through workshops, teaching, coaching + writing she has helped hundreds of people lead more fulfilling and resilient lives through research-based, mindful-awareness tools. She is co-owner of Afterglow Studio, co-host of The Afterglow Podcast and founder of Liz Doyle Harmer Coaching.   She holds an MBA from McGill University, a CPCC from Co-Active Training Institute and a 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training from Downward Dog. In her free time, you can find her running along the Lake Ontario boardwalk in the beach neighbourhood of Toronto or spending time with family.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and guest.


Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-6910139 Mon, 21 Dec 2020 09:00:00 -0500 1084 1 21 full false Episode #020: Transforming Your Business to Transform Your Industry with Lisa Rafter Episode #020: Transforming Your Business to Transform Your Industry with Lisa Rafter How to build out your business from one channel to many.

In this week's podcast I talk to Lisa Rafter who is the president of RAM Group Holdings, a media and publishing company based in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. Lisa is a force of nature in the cause for equity, inclusion and diversity and how to use your business as a catalyst for change. We talk extensively about ways she is using her business as a platform to transform her industry and how it givers her a powerful gravitational pull to wake up energized each and every day!

In this podcast you will hear about:

  • Ways to look at your business and create different platforms of value for your clients 
  • How you can use your voice in your industry for leadership
  • How equity can emerge in a traditional industry (and any industry actually)
  • Not to shy away from your big dreams and to go out and be all you can be
  • Structures and metrics which can be put in pace for accountability to cause transformation
  • Building your dream list for your board
  • The value of a coach and mentor no matter how long you've run your business
  • How being a catalyst for change is an everyday activity

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> How to build out your business from one channel to many.

In this week's podcast I talk to Lisa Rafter who is the president of RAM Group Holdings, a media and publishing company based in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. Lisa is a force of nature in the cause for equity, inclusion and diversity and how to use your business as a catalyst for change. We talk extensively about ways she is using her business as a platform to transform her industry and how it givers her a powerful gravitational pull to wake up energized each and every day!

In this podcast you will hear about:

  • Ways to look at your business and create different platforms of value for your clients 
  • How you can use your voice in your industry for leadership
  • How equity can emerge in a traditional industry (and any industry actually)
  • Not to shy away from your big dreams and to go out and be all you can be
  • Structures and metrics which can be put in pace for accountability to cause transformation
  • Building your dream list for your board
  • The value of a coach and mentor no matter how long you've run your business
  • How being a catalyst for change is an everyday activity

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-5600371 Tue, 29 Sep 2020 09:00:00 -0400 2397 1 20 full false Episode #019: Know and Leverage YOUR Creative Superpower for Growth & Joy with Sarah Thurber Episode #019: Know and Leverage YOUR Creative Superpower for Growth & Joy with Sarah Thurber How to Create More Value for Your Business Creatively

Do you ever find yourself drained while doing certain tasks in your business? Or realize after the fact you solved the wrong problem and subsequently wasted a lot of time and money doing so? Maybe you just sense there is something missing in your business, and you can't quite put your finger on what it is. If any of this happens to you, you will want to tune into my latest conversation with Sarah Thurber, Managing Partner at FourSight. Sarah and I explore the importance of knowing your creative super power and why having a range of diverse thinkers on your team is critical to any entrepreneur.

In this episode, you will learn:

  • Creativity is essential to bring something new into the world
  • The importance of knowing your approach to creativity and how to leverage it
  • Why you are avoiding getting some tasks done in your business or never get them off your 'to do' list
  • Your 'style' of thinking shapes where you engage and get energy in your business
  • The dangers of surrounding yourself only with people like you
  • Why collaborating with some people can be a painful experience and how to transform that
  • Key building blocks to build your team's effectiveness, efficiency and focus
  • The difference between active diversity and passive diversity and why active diversity is the only way to go

CLICK HERE to learn more on this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> How to Create More Value for Your Business Creatively

Do you ever find yourself drained while doing certain tasks in your business? Or realize after the fact you solved the wrong problem and subsequently wasted a lot of time and money doing so? Maybe you just sense there is something missing in your business, and you can't quite put your finger on what it is. If any of this happens to you, you will want to tune into my latest conversation with Sarah Thurber, Managing Partner at FourSight. Sarah and I explore the importance of knowing your creative super power and why having a range of diverse thinkers on your team is critical to any entrepreneur.

In this episode, you will learn:

  • Creativity is essential to bring something new into the world
  • The importance of knowing your approach to creativity and how to leverage it
  • Why you are avoiding getting some tasks done in your business or never get them off your 'to do' list
  • Your 'style' of thinking shapes where you engage and get energy in your business
  • The dangers of surrounding yourself only with people like you
  • Why collaborating with some people can be a painful experience and how to transform that
  • Key building blocks to build your team's effectiveness, efficiency and focus
  • The difference between active diversity and passive diversity and why active diversity is the only way to go

CLICK HERE to learn more on this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-5449726 Tue, 15 Sep 2020 10:00:00 -0400 2075 1 19 full false Episode #018: Bootstrap Your Business with Ilana Ben-Ari Episode #018: Bootstrap Your Business with Ilana Ben-Ari There are many ways to finance your business and if you've gone to a bank lately you may find that channel is not one of them. That's why you may want to consider 'bootstrap financing", but it takes a certain approach to living and working to make it successful.My guest to share her successful journey doing this since 2012 is Ilana Ben-Ari, a dynamic innovator. She is the founder of Twenty-One Toys, and behind the internationally acclaimed Empathy Toy.

Ilana's stories are engaging and relevant for any entrepreneur looking to grow at the speed of purpose. And you won't want to miss our conversation about the Pay and Wait Business Model.

KEY ASPECTS OF OUR CONVERSATION:

  • How curiosity, humility and chutzpah is the foundation for success
  • Empathy does not mean nice.  It is the imaginative act of looking at the world from different perspectives that aren't your own and deeply understanding it all
  • Empathy is a skill that can be taught, and it is needed now more than ever
  • You invent your own luck. Ilana's approach to that
  • It will get easier. Kind of....
  • Celebration and insight to a successful move to an on-line format from a purely live and in person model

CLICK HERE to learn more on this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> There are many ways to finance your business and if you've gone to a bank lately you may find that channel is not one of them. That's why you may want to consider 'bootstrap financing", but it takes a certain approach to living and working to make it successful.My guest to share her successful journey doing this since 2012 is Ilana Ben-Ari, a dynamic innovator. She is the founder of Twenty-One Toys, and behind the internationally acclaimed Empathy Toy.

Ilana's stories are engaging and relevant for any entrepreneur looking to grow at the speed of purpose. And you won't want to miss our conversation about the Pay and Wait Business Model.

KEY ASPECTS OF OUR CONVERSATION:

  • How curiosity, humility and chutzpah is the foundation for success
  • Empathy does not mean nice.  It is the imaginative act of looking at the world from different perspectives that aren't your own and deeply understanding it all
  • Empathy is a skill that can be taught, and it is needed now more than ever
  • You invent your own luck. Ilana's approach to that
  • It will get easier. Kind of....
  • Celebration and insight to a successful move to an on-line format from a purely live and in person model

CLICK HERE to learn more on this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-5185507 Tue, 01 Sep 2020 09:00:00 -0400 2680 1 18 full false Episode #017: Creating a Movement With Your Company with BE Alink Episode #017: Creating a Movement With Your Company with BE Alink The Time is Now!

"Everything is broken, what a great time to be alive!"* The re-frame of this current moment in time is just one of the compelling conversations I had with BE Alink, the founder and inventor of The Alinker a non-motorized walking-bike without pedals. With an adjustable saddle and handlebars, it is custom designed to challenge society's assumptions about disability.  Challenging assumptions and shifting paradigms is an everyday thing for BE, and necessary if you are going to build a movement with your business. Listen in to hear why BE thinks today is the perfect day to start.

In this episode we explore:  

  • The power of language and how it keeps us stuck
  • How personal awareness is the key to transformation and growth
  • Why all your uncomfortable experiences are critical to build grit and resilience 
  • How breaking out of your paradigm of 'making money' will unleash your imagination
  • Why fixing problems isn't the way to cause the change you desire
  • The beauty and creativity in being a weirdo! 

With insane tenacity, commitment and dedication, BE Alink has built her company into a movement of people showing up for each other.  BE only employs Alinker users (otherwise unemployed), pays everybody living wage (including herself), The Alinker has certified BCorp status, she is a SheEO venture, is more than carbon neutral, and practically plastic free.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> The Time is Now!

"Everything is broken, what a great time to be alive!"* The re-frame of this current moment in time is just one of the compelling conversations I had with BE Alink, the founder and inventor of The Alinker a non-motorized walking-bike without pedals. With an adjustable saddle and handlebars, it is custom designed to challenge society's assumptions about disability.  Challenging assumptions and shifting paradigms is an everyday thing for BE, and necessary if you are going to build a movement with your business. Listen in to hear why BE thinks today is the perfect day to start.

In this episode we explore:  

  • The power of language and how it keeps us stuck
  • How personal awareness is the key to transformation and growth
  • Why all your uncomfortable experiences are critical to build grit and resilience 
  • How breaking out of your paradigm of 'making money' will unleash your imagination
  • Why fixing problems isn't the way to cause the change you desire
  • The beauty and creativity in being a weirdo! 

With insane tenacity, commitment and dedication, BE Alink has built her company into a movement of people showing up for each other.  BE only employs Alinker users (otherwise unemployed), pays everybody living wage (including herself), The Alinker has certified BCorp status, she is a SheEO venture, is more than carbon neutral, and practically plastic free.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-4773572 Tue, 04 Aug 2020 09:00:00 -0400 2737 17 full false Episode #016: Vital Considerations for Brand Agility with Abena Perryman Episode #016: Vital Considerations for Brand Agility with Abena Perryman Seven Considerations For Your Brand

Abena Perryman joins me for this week's podcast to talk about vital considerations for brand agility. Abena brings her over 20 years of experience in the marketing and branding space to share her insights and ideas for how to think about your brand strategy during a pandemic and powerful movement for social justice.

You will learn from this podcast:

  • How technology is an enabler
  • The importance of knowing the disruptors in your industry space
  • Talent management's role in your brand
  • The opportunity to collaborate
  • How culture impacts your customer experience
  • Again!!! The importance of a growth mindset
  • Whether your brand is ready to take a stand

Abena Perryman is the managing partner at Andrew Perry in Toronto. Abena is a self-proclaimed customer evangelist who loves to dissect the customer journey, identifying how organizations can better connect with their customers. She has spent the last 20 years helping organizations craft better marketing strategies.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> Seven Considerations For Your Brand

Abena Perryman joins me for this week's podcast to talk about vital considerations for brand agility. Abena brings her over 20 years of experience in the marketing and branding space to share her insights and ideas for how to think about your brand strategy during a pandemic and powerful movement for social justice.

You will learn from this podcast:

  • How technology is an enabler
  • The importance of knowing the disruptors in your industry space
  • Talent management's role in your brand
  • The opportunity to collaborate
  • How culture impacts your customer experience
  • Again!!! The importance of a growth mindset
  • Whether your brand is ready to take a stand

Abena Perryman is the managing partner at Andrew Perry in Toronto. Abena is a self-proclaimed customer evangelist who loves to dissect the customer journey, identifying how organizations can better connect with their customers. She has spent the last 20 years helping organizations craft better marketing strategies.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-4639892 Tue, 21 Jul 2020 09:00:00 -0400 1917 1 16 full false Episode #015: Resilience and Humility with Lisa Mattam Episode #015: Resilience and Humility with Lisa Mattam Building a Critical Muscle of Entrepreneurship

In this episode, Lisa Mattam, the passionate entrepreneur and founder of Sahajan Skincare, makes the statement, "If you are standing still, you are actually going backwards." Lisa shares why, her entrepreneurial journey to date, the moment she almost gave up, or was practically brought to a stand still and how resilience played a huge part. She reflects on her key leanings and insights, all highly valuable for any entrepreneur wishing to grow their business. Lisa truly balances boldness and humility beautifully.

You will learn from this podcast:

  • Why resilience is a team activity
  • TRUST is the priceless currency
  • The importance of reflection and iteration in your business
  • What a good network can do for you
  • The importance of an abundance mindset (again!)
  • How preparation and practice intersect with performance
  • An approach to ensure your suppliers and partners earn the right to work with you

Lisa Mattam a proven and passionate entrepreneur and founder of Sahajan, an evidence-based natural skincare line based on the Ancient Science of Ayurveda. Lisa was also named by Profit Magazine as one of the Top Ten Emerging Women Entrepreneurs in Canada and recognized by the Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce as Female Entrepreneur of the Year.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> Building a Critical Muscle of Entrepreneurship

In this episode, Lisa Mattam, the passionate entrepreneur and founder of Sahajan Skincare, makes the statement, "If you are standing still, you are actually going backwards." Lisa shares why, her entrepreneurial journey to date, the moment she almost gave up, or was practically brought to a stand still and how resilience played a huge part. She reflects on her key leanings and insights, all highly valuable for any entrepreneur wishing to grow their business. Lisa truly balances boldness and humility beautifully.

You will learn from this podcast:

  • Why resilience is a team activity
  • TRUST is the priceless currency
  • The importance of reflection and iteration in your business
  • What a good network can do for you
  • The importance of an abundance mindset (again!)
  • How preparation and practice intersect with performance
  • An approach to ensure your suppliers and partners earn the right to work with you

Lisa Mattam a proven and passionate entrepreneur and founder of Sahajan, an evidence-based natural skincare line based on the Ancient Science of Ayurveda. Lisa was also named by Profit Magazine as one of the Top Ten Emerging Women Entrepreneurs in Canada and recognized by the Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce as Female Entrepreneur of the Year.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-4425455 Tue, 07 Jul 2020 10:00:00 -0400 2436 full false Episode #014: Possibility is an Attitude - Here's Why with Dan Trommater Episode #014: Possibility is an Attitude - Here's Why with Dan Trommater A magical approach to seeing the world.

Entrepreneurs have been asking me what does the future hold after COVID-19 and how can I make sense of what the new reality will be? These are great questions, and ones that Dan Trommater, Magician extraordinaire, explores with me by not providing any answers, but posing more questions! Consider a good question is worth its weight in gold and Dan delivers some golden ones. I promise you'll be glued to his stories about being a magician and how that lends him a unique way to see the world. Together we bridge that to some great principles for being an entrepreneur. 

You will learn from this episode:

  • How our perspective shapes ‘our’ realities  – and our reality may not be the truth, or at least the whole truth. 
  • How the sum of your experiences, if left unquestioned, could possibility be a handicap in your business if you rely on it solely.
  • Assumptions shape how we make decisions – important ones. Check your assumptions with the facts.
  • Empathy is a skill and not a character trait.  Build that muscle.
  • Be wary of the pre-fab 10 step success process

CLICK HERE to get the free download.

Support the show

]]> A magical approach to seeing the world.

Entrepreneurs have been asking me what does the future hold after COVID-19 and how can I make sense of what the new reality will be? These are great questions, and ones that Dan Trommater, Magician extraordinaire, explores with me by not providing any answers, but posing more questions! Consider a good question is worth its weight in gold and Dan delivers some golden ones. I promise you'll be glued to his stories about being a magician and how that lends him a unique way to see the world. Together we bridge that to some great principles for being an entrepreneur. 

You will learn from this episode:

  • How our perspective shapes ‘our’ realities  – and our reality may not be the truth, or at least the whole truth. 
  • How the sum of your experiences, if left unquestioned, could possibility be a handicap in your business if you rely on it solely.
  • Assumptions shape how we make decisions – important ones. Check your assumptions with the facts.
  • Empathy is a skill and not a character trait.  Build that muscle.
  • Be wary of the pre-fab 10 step success process

CLICK HERE to get the free download.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-4237241 Tue, 23 Jun 2020 09:00:00 -0400 2362 1 14 full false Episode #013: A Road Map Forward to Transform, Innovate and Grow with Brett Richards Episode #013: A Road Map Forward to Transform, Innovate and Grow with Brett Richards Access and Insight into the Intangible Metrics of your Company

To assess where to start takes a deep understanding of the intangible assets of your company and then the know how to have them work more effectively. The exciting news is that there is a tool that can help you with this - a crystal ball of sorts that can reveal the metrics needed to transform your company's culture into improved business performance. In this episode, Brett shares with us those metrics; culture, leadership, execution and alignment, and how the game changing tool he developed, the Organizational Growth Indicator (OGI), makes these visible and tangible so an informed strategy for transformation and growth can ensue.

Key Learnings You Will Access:

  • The link between your company's culture and improved business performance
  • The importance of common language and alignment in your company between leaders and to the strategy
  • How you can validate your gut feel regarding your company’s strengths and constraints to grow
  • How to generate better data to make better choices on where to put your resources and attention
  • The critical metrics the Organizational Growth Indicator will identify to help you build your road map to transform, innovate and grow your company

Dr. Brett Richards is the founder and President of Connective Intelligence Inc. which specializes in the development of customized training and organizational development solutions.  Brett is also an instructor at the Schulich Executive Education Centre, affiliated with York University’s Business School and the author of Grow Through Disruption: Breakthrough Mindsets to Innovate, Change and Win with the OGI which is available on Amazon.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> Access and Insight into the Intangible Metrics of your Company

To assess where to start takes a deep understanding of the intangible assets of your company and then the know how to have them work more effectively. The exciting news is that there is a tool that can help you with this - a crystal ball of sorts that can reveal the metrics needed to transform your company's culture into improved business performance. In this episode, Brett shares with us those metrics; culture, leadership, execution and alignment, and how the game changing tool he developed, the Organizational Growth Indicator (OGI), makes these visible and tangible so an informed strategy for transformation and growth can ensue.

Key Learnings You Will Access:

  • The link between your company's culture and improved business performance
  • The importance of common language and alignment in your company between leaders and to the strategy
  • How you can validate your gut feel regarding your company’s strengths and constraints to grow
  • How to generate better data to make better choices on where to put your resources and attention
  • The critical metrics the Organizational Growth Indicator will identify to help you build your road map to transform, innovate and grow your company

Dr. Brett Richards is the founder and President of Connective Intelligence Inc. which specializes in the development of customized training and organizational development solutions.  Brett is also an instructor at the Schulich Executive Education Centre, affiliated with York University’s Business School and the author of Grow Through Disruption: Breakthrough Mindsets to Innovate, Change and Win with the OGI which is available on Amazon.

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-4046747 Tue, 09 Jun 2020 09:00:00 -0400 2129 full false Episode #012: An Entrepreneur's Mindset with Charles Ruecker Episode #012: An Entrepreneur's Mindset with Charles Ruecker The Mindset Needed to Navigate the Future. NOTE: the Future is Now Entrepreneurs

In this episode, we explore the entrepreneur's mindset with Charles Ruecker, a 16 year iconoclast entrepreneur. Right now, more than ever, how we think and act will make or break our businesses. Massive change and disruption began well before COVID-19 and as Charles and I discuss, the pandemic super charged all of that change and had it become more pronounced and identifiable. That is why now is the time to take inventory of your mindset and whether if it will inhibit or enhance your ability to think strategically and effectively moving forward.

From this episode you'll understand:

  • How the acceleration of technology is impacting how we work and how we 'do life' like never before
  • The connection between mindset and technology
  • Why what has informed you in the past isn't sufficient to navigate your strategies for the future and why striving to keep things the same will leave you stuck
  • How taking on a mindset for the future will enable possibilities and powerful strategies for your company

CLICK HERE to learn more on this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> The Mindset Needed to Navigate the Future. NOTE: the Future is Now Entrepreneurs

In this episode, we explore the entrepreneur's mindset with Charles Ruecker, a 16 year iconoclast entrepreneur. Right now, more than ever, how we think and act will make or break our businesses. Massive change and disruption began well before COVID-19 and as Charles and I discuss, the pandemic super charged all of that change and had it become more pronounced and identifiable. That is why now is the time to take inventory of your mindset and whether if it will inhibit or enhance your ability to think strategically and effectively moving forward.

From this episode you'll understand:

  • How the acceleration of technology is impacting how we work and how we 'do life' like never before
  • The connection between mindset and technology
  • Why what has informed you in the past isn't sufficient to navigate your strategies for the future and why striving to keep things the same will leave you stuck
  • How taking on a mindset for the future will enable possibilities and powerful strategies for your company

CLICK HERE to learn more on this topic and guest.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-3908789 Tue, 26 May 2020 10:00:00 -0400 1719 full false Episode #011: How to Market During COVID-19 with Mitch Solway Episode #011: How to Market During COVID-19 with Mitch Solway The ABC's of Marketing and Generating More Opportunity During and After COVID-19

If you've been a little unsure about how to engage in marketing and business development during COVID-19, listen in to this episode with Mitch Solway. Mitch is a seasoned marketing professional who has over 20 years of experience within a number of different industries. In this episode he provides practical and actionable steps to market and promote your business so you can stay engaged with your business development initiatives in an authentic and meaningful way.

What you’ll get from this episode:

  • A road map to understand who your best customer is
  • Why you need to go smaller before going bigger
  • The power of word of mouth
  • The continued importance of building relationships
  • Where to to go to market your business

Click Here to access the article Mitch shares in this episode. 

Support the show

]]> The ABC's of Marketing and Generating More Opportunity During and After COVID-19

If you've been a little unsure about how to engage in marketing and business development during COVID-19, listen in to this episode with Mitch Solway. Mitch is a seasoned marketing professional who has over 20 years of experience within a number of different industries. In this episode he provides practical and actionable steps to market and promote your business so you can stay engaged with your business development initiatives in an authentic and meaningful way.

What you’ll get from this episode:

  • A road map to understand who your best customer is
  • Why you need to go smaller before going bigger
  • The power of word of mouth
  • The continued importance of building relationships
  • Where to to go to market your business

Click Here to access the article Mitch shares in this episode. 

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-3672433 Tue, 12 May 2020 09:00:00 -0400 1790 full false Episode #010: Three Questions Entrepreneurs Should Be Asking Themselves Now Episode #010: Three Questions Entrepreneurs Should Be Asking Themselves Now Questions are important, especially now. Take a moment and answer these three important questions for yourself.

What you’ll get from this episode:

  • Considerations on where you are and how you might view the current reality we are in
  • A perspective on the opportunities that are available to you
  • Thoughts on ways to stay connected with key stakeholders in your eco-system

Glynnis Rengger is the Founder and CEO of The Immersion Lab. Her clients have included global market leaders across diverse sectors such as Healthcare, Hospitality, Beverages, Retail, Financial Services, Government and Manufacturing in relationships that have spanned multiple programs over many years. Her broad knowledge of geopolitics, world trends, key markets and current business trends inform much of the success the company has enjoyed.

Episode Length: 25 minutes

Support the show

]]> Questions are important, especially now. Take a moment and answer these three important questions for yourself.

What you’ll get from this episode:

  • Considerations on where you are and how you might view the current reality we are in
  • A perspective on the opportunities that are available to you
  • Thoughts on ways to stay connected with key stakeholders in your eco-system

Glynnis Rengger is the Founder and CEO of The Immersion Lab. Her clients have included global market leaders across diverse sectors such as Healthcare, Hospitality, Beverages, Retail, Financial Services, Government and Manufacturing in relationships that have spanned multiple programs over many years. Her broad knowledge of geopolitics, world trends, key markets and current business trends inform much of the success the company has enjoyed.

Episode Length: 25 minutes

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-3537994 Tue, 28 Apr 2020 08:00:00 -0400 1504 1 10 full false Episode #009: Talking to your Team about your Finances in Times of Upheaval with Bruce Sellery Episode #009: Talking to your Team about your Finances in Times of Upheaval with Bruce Sellery In this podcast, I talk to Bruce Sellery about how to approach this conversation in a productive, transparent and low-stress way and why it is important to do so. Bruce's perspective is informative, engaging and fun (really!).

What you’ll get from this episode:

  • Considerations of relevant results to be sharing and be clear about what you want your team to focus on
  • Ways to position what you are sharing
  • The importance of knowing where your people are at and their different experiences you should be considering
  • The value in clarifying assumptions

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and download a summary of the key learnings.

Support the show

]]> In this podcast, I talk to Bruce Sellery about how to approach this conversation in a productive, transparent and low-stress way and why it is important to do so. Bruce's perspective is informative, engaging and fun (really!).

What you’ll get from this episode:

  • Considerations of relevant results to be sharing and be clear about what you want your team to focus on
  • Ways to position what you are sharing
  • The importance of knowing where your people are at and their different experiences you should be considering
  • The value in clarifying assumptions

CLICK HERE to learn more about this topic and download a summary of the key learnings.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-3421093 Sun, 19 Apr 2020 16:00:00 -0400 1634 full false Episode #008: Re-Positioned and Ready with Patti Mara Episode #008: Re-Positioned and Ready with Patti Mara Ideas to keep providing a valued customer experience in times of physical isolation.

My guest is Patti Mara. She has worked with hundreds of entrepreneurial owned and operated businesses to re position them for success and dramatically increase their growth, customer retention, and profit. She is the author of UpSolutions – Turning Your Team into Heroes and Customers into Ravings Fans.

What you’ll get from this podcast:

  • An understanding of how to leverage the current crisis to pivot your business quickly to move from surviving to thriving
  • Learn about the new guiding principles for small and mid-sized business
  • Inspiration and ideas to do things differently. There is no business as usual!

Click Here to access the free Touchpoint Score Card Tool.

Support the show

]]> Ideas to keep providing a valued customer experience in times of physical isolation.

My guest is Patti Mara. She has worked with hundreds of entrepreneurial owned and operated businesses to re position them for success and dramatically increase their growth, customer retention, and profit. She is the author of UpSolutions – Turning Your Team into Heroes and Customers into Ravings Fans.

What you’ll get from this podcast:

  • An understanding of how to leverage the current crisis to pivot your business quickly to move from surviving to thriving
  • Learn about the new guiding principles for small and mid-sized business
  • Inspiration and ideas to do things differently. There is no business as usual!

Click Here to access the free Touchpoint Score Card Tool.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-3153319 Tue, 07 Apr 2020 08:00:00 -0400 1148 full false Episode #007: Cashflow is King with Cindy Warner Beck Episode #007: Cashflow is King with Cindy Warner Beck Calculate and Stay On Top of Your Company’s Cashflow right now.

My guest is Cindy Warner Beck. She has over 15 years of experience working with companies of all sizes at the Royal Bank of Canada. Now, through her company Lightbulb Finance, she works with small and medium sized businesses as an outsourced CFO to on help business owners understand their finances to make more informed decisions on their growth.

What you’ll get from this podcast:

  • An understanding of what your most important financial area is right now, cashflow
  • A step by step overview of how to calculate your cash runway
  • A working spreadsheet to calculate your breakeven and runway
  • Resources available to help you financially right now

CLICK HERE to access the free resources.

Support the show

]]> Calculate and Stay On Top of Your Company’s Cashflow right now.

My guest is Cindy Warner Beck. She has over 15 years of experience working with companies of all sizes at the Royal Bank of Canada. Now, through her company Lightbulb Finance, she works with small and medium sized businesses as an outsourced CFO to on help business owners understand their finances to make more informed decisions on their growth.

What you’ll get from this podcast:

  • An understanding of what your most important financial area is right now, cashflow
  • A step by step overview of how to calculate your cash runway
  • A working spreadsheet to calculate your breakeven and runway
  • Resources available to help you financially right now

CLICK HERE to access the free resources.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-3153103 Thu, 02 Apr 2020 09:00:00 -0400 1217 full false Episode #006: Simple Structures to Stay Focused and Sane with Marysia Czarski Episode #006: Simple Structures to Stay Focused and Sane with Marysia Czarski Simple Ways to Keep a Focused and Positive Mindset.

I am solo on this podcast, and it is only 5 minutes long.

This episode is the first in a series we're calling The Pivot Podcast Series. For more, head to Entrepreneur's Velocity.

Support the show

]]> Simple Ways to Keep a Focused and Positive Mindset.

I am solo on this podcast, and it is only 5 minutes long.

This episode is the first in a series we're calling The Pivot Podcast Series. For more, head to Entrepreneur's Velocity.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-3152929 Tue, 31 Mar 2020 08:00:00 -0400 346 full false Episode #005: Resonating as an Entrepreneur - Making Your Difference as a Leader, the Zen Way with Ginny Whitelaw Episode #005: Resonating as an Entrepreneur - Making Your Difference as a Leader, the Zen Way with Ginny Whitelaw Mark Twain said “Life does not consist of facts and happenings. It consists mainly of the storm of thoughts that are forever blowing through one’s mind.” But what happens if that storm of thoughts is actually negatively affecting your confidence to make important decisions and take action? It has been my experience that the journey of being an entrepreneur is filled with a battle of the inner voice.

In this episode, you will learn 3 essential ways to work with resonance to get you present, connected and ready to take on the ups and downs of entrepreneurship (and life) and build your resilience and stamina. 

Key Learnings You Will Access: 

  • How using ‘Hara breathing’ can center and quiet the mind in the fast-paced world we are in
  • Approaches to access deep listening to build empathy and sense where people are rather than rushing to your agenda to cause change
  • Recognizing feedback loops to sense where energy is building and whether your ideas are resonating with others

CLICK HERE to access the free resources.

Support the show

]]> Mark Twain said “Life does not consist of facts and happenings. It consists mainly of the storm of thoughts that are forever blowing through one’s mind.” But what happens if that storm of thoughts is actually negatively affecting your confidence to make important decisions and take action? It has been my experience that the journey of being an entrepreneur is filled with a battle of the inner voice.

In this episode, you will learn 3 essential ways to work with resonance to get you present, connected and ready to take on the ups and downs of entrepreneurship (and life) and build your resilience and stamina. 

Key Learnings You Will Access: 

  • How using ‘Hara breathing’ can center and quiet the mind in the fast-paced world we are in
  • Approaches to access deep listening to build empathy and sense where people are rather than rushing to your agenda to cause change
  • Recognizing feedback loops to sense where energy is building and whether your ideas are resonating with others

CLICK HERE to access the free resources.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-3024121 Mon, 16 Mar 2020 10:00:00 -0400 1766 full false Episode #004: Boosting your Well-Being as an Entrepreneur with Andrew Soren Episode #004: Boosting your Well-Being as an Entrepreneur with Andrew Soren In this episode, Andrew Soren helps Marysia pull back the curtain on the roller coaster experience being an entrepreneur can be and the new research which is telling us what we know, entrepreneurs face tremendous stress and it is impacting their well-being. He will share his rich experience in positive psychology. Listen as Andrew teaches us about the mindset of well-being and how entrepreneurs can apply it in their work and personal lives to build resilience, confidence, and turn the dial on their potential.

KEY LEARNINGS:

  • Understand the evidence-based pillars of well-being 
  • Practical tips to maintain your optimism and apply your strengths
  • How to build the social support you need to thrive

GET THE FREE DOWNLOAD HERE.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, Andrew Soren helps Marysia pull back the curtain on the roller coaster experience being an entrepreneur can be and the new research which is telling us what we know, entrepreneurs face tremendous stress and it is impacting their well-being. He will share his rich experience in positive psychology. Listen as Andrew teaches us about the mindset of well-being and how entrepreneurs can apply it in their work and personal lives to build resilience, confidence, and turn the dial on their potential.

KEY LEARNINGS:

  • Understand the evidence-based pillars of well-being 
  • Practical tips to maintain your optimism and apply your strengths
  • How to build the social support you need to thrive

GET THE FREE DOWNLOAD HERE.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-2840575 Tue, 25 Feb 2020 13:00:00 -0500 1763 1 4 full false Episode #003: Building Blocks for Sales Velocity with Arlene Mendoza Episode #003: Building Blocks for Sales Velocity with Arlene Mendoza In this episode, Arlene Mendoza shares with us her approach to re-frame your sales approach from pushing products and services onto someone to understanding the deeply intrinsic need of your potential customer and providing a valuable offering that they want to purchase. Arlene shares stories from her journey, overcoming and working with discomfort and intimidation and provides concrete examples and tips on how to.

YOU WILL LEARN

  • Reengineering from selling to pushing possibilities.
  • How traditional selling (product/features) doesn’t address a human need.
  • How to shift the narrative of sales from feeling like a Used Car Sales Man in sales meetings.
  • Overcome the objection that this approach might take too long.
  • How to clarify the value proposition of your business.
  • How to undercover pain points and provide a clear solution.
  • Addressing discomfort in sales and asking WHY 3x.
  • Understand what scares you about sales and how to overcome that.

GET THE FREE DOWNLOAD HERE.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, Arlene Mendoza shares with us her approach to re-frame your sales approach from pushing products and services onto someone to understanding the deeply intrinsic need of your potential customer and providing a valuable offering that they want to purchase. Arlene shares stories from her journey, overcoming and working with discomfort and intimidation and provides concrete examples and tips on how to.

YOU WILL LEARN

  • Reengineering from selling to pushing possibilities.
  • How traditional selling (product/features) doesn’t address a human need.
  • How to shift the narrative of sales from feeling like a Used Car Sales Man in sales meetings.
  • Overcome the objection that this approach might take too long.
  • How to clarify the value proposition of your business.
  • How to undercover pain points and provide a clear solution.
  • Addressing discomfort in sales and asking WHY 3x.
  • Understand what scares you about sales and how to overcome that.

GET THE FREE DOWNLOAD HERE.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-2727334 Wed, 12 Feb 2020 13:00:00 -0500 1734 1 3 full false Episode #002: Making Market Research Work on an Entrepreneur's Budget with Louise Sheedy Episode #002: Making Market Research Work on an Entrepreneur's Budget with Louise Sheedy In this episode, Louise Sheedy provides us with a better way to understand your customers and your market place. As a seasoned market research expert, Louise began her career at an advertising agency, but pivoted into market research when she realized this was her passion. Now, as an entrepreneur herself, she empathizes with entrepreneurs on a budget and shares actionable advice on how to approach market research and make it work for your business.

YOU WILL LEARN

  • The importance of using market or consumer research to inform your strategic thinking and decision making.
  • Critical questions to ask yourself about your market research efforts.
  • Effective ways to engage in ‘do-it-yourself’ research that can give you good insights for your business.
  • When ‘do-it-yourself’ research may lead you to the wrong pathway forward and ways to know when to pivot.
  • How to determine a research budget for your project.
  • Approaches to managing your research efforts and make the most of your investment

GET THE FREE DOWNLOAD HERE.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, Louise Sheedy provides us with a better way to understand your customers and your market place. As a seasoned market research expert, Louise began her career at an advertising agency, but pivoted into market research when she realized this was her passion. Now, as an entrepreneur herself, she empathizes with entrepreneurs on a budget and shares actionable advice on how to approach market research and make it work for your business.

YOU WILL LEARN

  • The importance of using market or consumer research to inform your strategic thinking and decision making.
  • Critical questions to ask yourself about your market research efforts.
  • Effective ways to engage in ‘do-it-yourself’ research that can give you good insights for your business.
  • When ‘do-it-yourself’ research may lead you to the wrong pathway forward and ways to know when to pivot.
  • How to determine a research budget for your project.
  • Approaches to managing your research efforts and make the most of your investment

GET THE FREE DOWNLOAD HERE.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-2632459 Tue, 04 Feb 2020 08:00:00 -0500 1797 value, marketing, brand, positioning, entrepreneur, strategy, brand vision, budget, advertising, market research 1 2 full false Episode #001: Understand and Define Your Value Proposition with Shari Walczak Episode #001: Understand and Define Your Value Proposition with Shari Walczak In this episode, Shari Walczak of The Garden Collective, a seasoned brand strategist, opens up the multi-dimensional importance of a company brand and value proposition and why every entrepreneur should have one. She will simplify what all the ‘jargon’  means, and provides the important aspects to understand the interconnected components of a brand, how they work together, and ways to go about defining or refining your company’s brand.  Shari shares stories, analogies and structured approaches on how to get into action.

YOU WILL LEARN

  • Why brands aren’t just for Nike, Tide and other large organizations!  
  • How a well-defined brand strategy helps you define your ‘yeses’ and your ‘nos’ for your business
  • The inter-connection of a value proposition and brand strategy and why they aren’t an advertising campaign
  • Ways to define your brand vision and the emotion it can evoke
  • Why it is so hard to do this alone, and ways to figure it out

GET THE FREE DOWNLOAD HERE.

Support the show

]]> In this episode, Shari Walczak of The Garden Collective, a seasoned brand strategist, opens up the multi-dimensional importance of a company brand and value proposition and why every entrepreneur should have one. She will simplify what all the ‘jargon’  means, and provides the important aspects to understand the interconnected components of a brand, how they work together, and ways to go about defining or refining your company’s brand.  Shari shares stories, analogies and structured approaches on how to get into action.

YOU WILL LEARN

  • Why brands aren’t just for Nike, Tide and other large organizations!  
  • How a well-defined brand strategy helps you define your ‘yeses’ and your ‘nos’ for your business
  • The inter-connection of a value proposition and brand strategy and why they aren’t an advertising campaign
  • Ways to define your brand vision and the emotion it can evoke
  • Why it is so hard to do this alone, and ways to figure it out

GET THE FREE DOWNLOAD HERE.

Support the show

]]> Create Velocity Buzzsprout-2498524 Wed, 15 Jan 2020 11:00:00 -0500 1693 value, marketing, brand, positioning, entrepreneur, strategy, brand vision, 1 1 full false