The quest for business growth is more complex and urgent than ever. Leaders of both established companies and start-ups face a dizzying array of models and strategies to formulate their growth plans. How do you navigate this intricate landscape to stand out and rise above the competition?

Mario Perez is the innovative force behind Toronto’s Telax Voice Solutions. Founded in the 90s, Telax entered a market teeming with competition. Under Mario’s leadership, the company achieved consistent growth and enviable customer loyalty. Mario's journey from humble beginnings to building a team that rivals multinationals exemplifies the power of focused leadership, strategic thinking, and a commitment to quality when aiming for steady growth and sustained business success.

In this episode of A CFO’s Diary - Pathways to Growth, Mario opens up about the challenges and triumphs of building Telax Voice Solutions from scratch. He discusses the financial strategies, investment choices, and risk assessments that were critical to fuelling the company's expansion. Mario also highlights the value of expert guidance and mentoring when navigating the complexities of funding operations. Tune in to learn how to apply these proven strategies to drive your business to new heights.

Chapters
1 - Mario’s early studies and upbringing in Cuba (2:02)
2 - First roles in the tech field and inspiration behind Telex (7:22)
3 - Early days at Telex and the start-up's unique model (9:43)
4 - Field competition and growth strategy (15:38)
5 - Implementing investments to fuel growth (16:42)
6 - Reflections on the power of organic growth (21:20)

Links

• Mario Perez
• Telax Voice Solutions
• SavvyCFO

In this episode host Don Cameron delves into the dramatic and instructive story of Clearly LASIK whose founders Joseph King and Michael Mockovak made headlines, and sadly not for the right reasons.
Don is joined by Daniel Kultin, who shares his firsthand account of the rise and fall of the company. From internal conflicts to shocking headline grabbing developments, this episode is a compelling exploration of the extreme consequences that can arise from mismanagement. Daniel's journey from an IT student to an FBI informant provides a unique perspective on the essential components needed for growth and stability.

Chapters

(1:50) Daniel's roots in IT.

(4:40) Making a leap in his career and joining Clearly LASIK.

(7:00) Expanding the business, the 'Starbucks' model.

(10:32) The challenges of roll out.

(12:53) When conflicting directions erode the chain of command.

(18:05) Challenges in leadership lead to an exit.

(21:40) Problems persist: Profit share & partnership

(26:00) Daniel's debrief: What could have prevented the decline?

(30:50) His advice for young professionals.

Links:

• Murder for Hire | Oxygen True-Crime Documentary
• Savvy-CFO

Working your way up in the industry is often seen as a straightforward path to success. But what happens when you reach the pinnacle of the corporate ladder? Sometimes, when you're climbing up, your definition of success changes. That’s what led Joe Wilson to become the owner of Sonitrol Western Canada.

Starting with side hustles, and climbing the corporate ladder, Joe's journey led him to become president of his workplace at the early age of 32. However, his restlessness in unstable and monopolized industries pushed him to continue challenging himself and pursuing other avenues, transforming his obstacles into stepping stones.

In this episode of A CFO’s Diary - Pathways to Growth, Joe shares the importance of embracing change, pushing boundaries, and charting our own course toward success.

Chapters

1 - Joe’s early business hustles and first jobs.
2 - How climbing the ladder in the alcohol industry led Joe to the security sector.
3 - The importance of analyzing your surroundings, adapting to changing circumstances, and remaining proactive in the pursuit of new ventures
4 - Understanding your value and pursuing growth opportunities, even through lateral moves or exploring new markets.
5 - Joe’s journey from Sonitrol client to employee, to president.
6 - Demonstrating commitment to your customers. How Joe uses transparency, fairness, and value to grow business
7 - How Joe created his own definition and formula for success.
8 - Joe’s advice for those getting started in business.

Links

• Joe Wilson LinkedIn
• Sonitrol Western Canada
• Savvy-CFO