In yet another interesting episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we were joined by Estelle Azemard, Vice President Americas at OVHcloud. Estelle discusses crucial topics such as hidden fees in cloud services, technology lock-ins, data sovereignty, selecting the right cloud solutions, and the future of cloud computing. Her insights are particularly valuable for SMEs navigating the complex cloud computing landscape, aiming to optimize their technology investments while maintaining control and transparency.

Key Highlights:

• Estelle illuminates common hidden fees that SMEs encounter and offers strategies to avoid these unexpected costs, emphasizing the importance of financial transparency in cloud services.
• Discussion on identifying signs of potential technology lock-ins and strategies to maintain business flexibility and foster innovation.
• Importance of data sovereignty for SMEs and steps to ensure control over data, with OVHcloud's commitment to client data integrity highlighted.
• Factors SMEs should consider when selecting cloud solutions to ensure they align with their business needs and goals.
• Insights into emerging trends in cloud technology that SMEs need to be aware of to stay competitive and innovative.

We would like to thank Estelle Azemard, for her enlightening conversation. Her expertise has undoubtedly equipped our listeners with the knowledge to make more informed decisions regarding cloud computing.

Shoutout to our sponsors for more information find their links below:

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Xero: https://www.xero.com/ca/?source=CanadianSME

Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand

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Don't forget to subscribe to CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca for more insightful episodes that empower your entrepreneurial spirit.

In another enriching episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we had the privilege of hosting Elisa Swern, a distinguished Consumer Markets Leader and Partner at PwC Canada. With a remarkable career spanning over 25 years, Elisa has shaped retail and consumer strategy, driving organizations towards achieving operational excellence. Her involvement with PwC's Alumni team in the GTA underscores her commitment to community engagement and fostering innovative programs.

Key Highlights:

• Elisa discusses the motivations behind PwC's recent consumer behavior report, highlighting key demographics.
• Insights into how small businesses can leverage this data to refine their strategies and better cater to evolving market needs.
• Elisa shares effective strategies for retailers to attract and retain customers amidst fierce competition.
• Examples of successful implementations that resonate with current consumer demands are explored.
• The podcast delves into the shifting priorities of consumers, especially in light of recent economic changes.
• Elisa advises on how businesses can adapt to maintain consumer trust and relevance.

We would like to thank Elisa Swern for her invaluable insights.

Shoutout to our sponsors for more information find their links below:

RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html

UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA

Xero: https://www.xero.com/ca/?source=CanadianSME

Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand

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Don't forget to subscribe to CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca for more insightful episodes that empower your entrepreneurial spirit.

In another insightful episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, e were thrilled to have Alison Simpson, President and CEO of the Canadian Marketing Association, share her expertise. Alison’s distinguished career spans across top-tier brands like Holt Renfrew and Shopify, and now she’s leading transformative educational programs at the CMA that equip marketers with cutting-edge skills.

Key Highlights:

• Alison detailed this pivotal program designed to train marketing professionals in essential digital skills, addressing the evolving needs of Canada’s marketing landscape.
• We discussed how this prestigious designation integrates with the DMSC program to enhance ongoing professional development.
• Alison highlighted the CMA’s commitment to DEI in their training programs, aiming to make substantial impacts on the marketing community.
• Alison shared her insights on the broader effects of the DMSC program on the Canadian marketing industry, emphasizing the importance of aligning training with industry demands.
• Alison opened up about the hurdles faced while implementing extensive educational initiatives like the DMSC program, providing lessons that can benefit other organizations.

Thank you, Alison Simpson, for enriching our podcast with your deep insights into the evolution of marketing education and professional growth.

Shoutout to our sponsors for more information find their links below:

RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html

UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA

Xero: https://www.xero.com/ca/?source=CanadianSME

Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand

IHG Hotels and Resorts: https://businessedge.ihg.com/s/?language=en_US

Don't forget to subscribe to CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca for more insightful episodes that empower your entrepreneurial spirit.

In this episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we are joined by Hesham Fahmy, Chief Information Officer at TELUS. Hesham has been instrumental in guiding TELUS through a significant digital transformation, incorporating advanced technologies like AI and cloud solutions to enhance operational efficiency and customer service. He shares insights into TELUS’ journey, the impact of AI on customer support, and the ethical considerations of AI deployment.

Key Highlights:

• Hesham describes TELUS’ transition from a traditional telecom to a digital-first, software-centric organization.
• Discussion on TELUS' development of a GenAI-powered customer support tool.
• Exploration of how TELUS addresses ethical considerations and data privacy in its AI applications.
• Hesham offers advice to other business leaders on adopting AI technologies effectively within their operations.
• Hesham shares exciting future projects and initiatives that continue to position TELUS as a leader in technology and customer service.

We thank Hesham Fahmy for his enlightening conversation and for sharing his expertise in driving one of Canada’s leading tech transformations. His insights are essential for anyone in the tech sector or any business leader looking to embrace digital and AI advancements.

Shoutout to our sponsors for more information find their links below:

RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html

UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA

Xero: https://www.xero.com/ca/?source=CanadianSME

Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand

IHG Hotels and Resorts: https://businessedge.ihg.com/s/?language=en_US

Don't forget to subscribe to CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca for more insightful episodes that empower your entrepreneurial spirit.

In this enlightening episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we were joined by Katherine Clarke-Nolan, the Chief Operating Officer at Business Sherpa Group. With her extensive experience in enhancing business operations and fostering an employee-centric culture, Katherine shares valuable insights into strategic leadership and the role of a COO in small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Key Highlight Points:

• Katherine discusses the critical timing and indicators for SMEs to consider when appointing a COO, highlighting the role's strategic importance in scaling operations and enhancing organizational structure.
• She elaborates on the transformative impact of strategic hires like a COO in SMEs, emphasizing how such roles are investments that drive long-term growth and stability.
• Katherine shares effective strategies for integrating senior leadership into a company, ensuring cultural fit and strategic alignment to maximize their positive impact on the team and projects.
• Looking ahead, Katherine discusses exciting new initiatives at Business Sherpa Group that promise to keep the company at the forefront of HR and business consulting services.

With our conversation with Katherine Clarke-Nolan, it’s clear that her leadership at Business Sherpa Group is not just about maintaining efficiency but about pioneering innovations that redefine how businesses operate and thrive. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders reminds us of the importance of strategic alignment and proactive adaptation in today’s fast-paced business environment. Thank you, Katherine, for sharing your deep insights and experiences, providing our listeners with valuable lessons in leadership and strategic growth.

Shoutout to our sponsors for more information find their links below:

RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html

UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA

Xero: https://www.xero.com/ca/?source=CanadianSME

Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand

IHG Hotels and Resorts: https://businessedge.ihg.com/s/?language=en_US

Don't forget to subscribe to CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca for more insightful episodes that empower your entrepreneurial spirit.

In this episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we dive into the world of employee-centric business culture with Chris Collins, Vice President & Managing Partner at PeopleToGo Inc. Chris has dramatically influenced the staffing industry with his commitment to fostering an environment that values its people first, propelling PeopleToGo to impressive growth and recognition, including being named a Top 100 Staffing Leader to Watch in 2024.

Key Highlights:

• Chris shares his strategies for nurturing a culture that puts employees first, highlighting how this philosophy has been integral to the company's success and growth.
• Discussion on the direct impact of an empowered workforce on business outcomes.
• Insights into how PeopleToGo maintains high-value delivery to its clients in a competitive market.
• Chris provides examples where focusing on customer value has led to significant business wins.
• Strategies employed by PeopleToGo to attract and retain top IT talent amid a volatile job market.
• Predictions for the future trajectory of the IT staffing and services industry.

Chris Collins' insights have illuminated the crucial role of building a robust company culture and how it can drive both employee satisfaction and business success.

Shoutout to our sponsors for more information find their links below:

RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html

UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA

Xero: https://www.xero.com/ca/?source=CanadianSME

Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand

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Don't forget to subscribe to CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca for more insightful episodes that empower your entrepreneurial spirit.

In this CanadianSME Small Business Podcast episode, we explore the cutting-edge world of quantum technology with James Nguyen, Co-Founder and CEO of Quantropi. Recognized as one of Ottawa’s Top Forty Under 40, James has transformed Quantropi into a leader in quantum-secure communications, setting new standards for digital security. He shares his journey from inception to innovation and how Quantropi is shaping the future of data security.

Key Highlights:

• James discusses his transition from economics and investment to founding Quantropi, inspired by the potential of quantum technologies to revolutionize data security.
• Learn how Quantropi distinguishes itself in the competitive quantum security market, offering unique solutions that protect against both current and emerging digital threats.
• James details the significant hurdles encountered while developing quantum-secure technologies and how Quantropi navigated these challenges to foster innovation and growth.
• Discover how small and medium enterprises can utilize quantum technologies to enhance their security measures and operational efficiency, ensuring they are prepared for future digital landscapes.
• James provides insights into upcoming trends in quantum technology and how businesses should prepare to integrate these advances to stay competitive and secure.

Thank you, James Nguyen, for joining us on the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast and sharing your invaluable insights into the quantum realm. Your journey from economics to quantum innovation is not only inspiring but also a testament to the transformative power of technology in business.

Shoutout to our sponsors for more information find their links below:

RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html

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Xero: https://www.xero.com/ca/?source=CanadianSME

Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand

IHG Hotels and Resorts: https://businessedge.ihg.com/s/?language=en_US

Don't forget to subscribe to CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca for more insightful episodes that empower your entrepreneurial spirit.

In this episode of the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, we’re thrilled to have Rebecca Kacaba, CEO and Co-Founder of DealMaker. Rebecca’s journey from a top-tier lawyer to a trailblazing entrepreneur has culminated in the creation of DealMaker, a platform transforming capital raising into a process as simple as eCommerce. Recognized as one of North America's most innovative legal minds, Rebecca’s insights will delve into the evolving world of online capital raising and the significant impact of community-driven financial strategies.

Key Highlights:

• Rebecca discusses the moment that inspired the creation of DealMaker and how her legal background provided a unique foundation for disrupting the capital raising sector.
• Exploration of what sets DealMaker apart from other capital raising platforms, emphasizing its unique value propositions and impact on the market.
• Discussion on the critical role of community in the capital raising process and how DealMaker facilitates these connections to empower founders and startups.
• A walk-through of the capital raising process on DealMaker, highlighting how the platform makes it accessible for startups of all sizes to secure funding.
• Rebecca shares compelling success stories and notable campaigns that have thrived through DealMaker, providing inspiration and actionable insights for new entrepreneurs.

Rebecca’s vision for DealMaker as a transformative platform in the fintech space is a beacon for innovation in capital raising. Her advice to entrepreneurs underscores the importance of leveraging technology and community to not only raise capital but also build sustainable business growth.

We deeply appreciate Rebecca Kacaba for joining us and sharing such invaluable insights. Her journey and achievements with DealMaker are inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs to think differently about funding and community engagement.

Shoutout to our sponsors for more information find their links below:

RBC: https://www.rbcroyalbank.com/dms/business/accounts/beyond-banking/index.html

UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA

Xero: https://www.xero.com/ca/?source=CanadianSME

Constant Contact: https://www.constantcontact.com/landing1/new-marketer?utm_campaign=canadiansme&utm_medium=sponsorlogo&utm_source=brand

IHG Hotels and Resorts: https://businessedge.ihg.com/s/?language=en_US

Don't forget to subscribe to CanadianSME Small Business Magazine at www.canadiansme.ca for more insightful episodes that empower your entrepreneurial spirit.