Olia is a Certified Global Professional in Human Resources, boasting extensive expertise in people development, HR strategy, Learning and Development, Business Strategy, and Diversity and Inclusion. A distinguished alumna of Harvard Business School, Olia has made her mark as the founder of Transformers Academy. Her dedication to empowering individuals and organizations through transformative education is evident in her work. She excels in driving operational efficiency and crafting progressive employee experience and development strategies. Olia's achievements have made waves in multiple organizations, and she is deeply passionate about making a positive impact. In addition to her professional endeavours, Olia is an 9-time half-marathoner, a testament to her ability to constantly seek new challenges and push her own limits.

Andrea Tang is a purpose driven leader and fundraising executive known for building high-performing teams and transformative philanthropic initiatives.

As the Chief Executive Officer at Variety - the Children’s Charity, Andrea leads the organization in service of its vision to build a more inclusive world where children of all abilities have equal opportunities to thrive. Andrea previously served as the Vice President of Philanthropy at the Terry Fox Foundation and in senior management roles at various international health organizations across Canada, Africa, Central America, and the Caribbean.

Andrea was awarded the Association for Healthcare Philanthropy’s Top 40 Under 40, Business in Vancouver’s Forty Under 40, The 2024 Peak's Emerging Leaders, and the University of Western Ontario’s Excellence in Leadership award.

She holds a Master of Business Administration in strategic management and international business and is an active member of the community.An authentic and dynamic leader, Andrea is guided by deeply rooted values, a commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion, and supporting the next generation of trailblazers.

She inspires innovation and strategic thinking to drive teams and organizations forward, reaching ambitious mandates for impact and improved health outcomes for children and communities across the globe.Variety is on a mission to help every child with complex healthcare needs fulfill their unique potential.

By providing life-changing support and essential resources—including medical and mobility equipment, specialized therapists, mental health counsellors, expert tutors, and vital assessments—we empower extraordinary children to overcome barriers and thrive. They believe that every child has the right to live in an inclusive world and feel a sense of belonging in their community.

Every donation helps more kids be kids and makes a profound difference in the lives of families across British Columbia. For anyone wanting to donate, they can go to https://www.variety.bc.ca/. Donations will be matched for twice the impact.

Other ways to donate during October include: • Have your one-time gift matched by visiting variety.bc.ca• Become a monthly donor at variety.bc.ca• Donate by phone: donors can call 310-KIDS (5437) toll-free• Text the word "KIDS" to 45678 to make an automatic $25 donation• Tune into Global BC from October 21 – 27 to meet Variety kids and their families

In episode 323 of his popular ON THE BRINK Podcast, John A. Brink delves into the critical fundamentals of the British Columbia forest industry. Drawing on over half a century of experience, John provides an in-depth analysis of the current challenges, historical context, future opportunities and why value-added is critically important within this vital sector. With his unique insights, John explains the essential dynamics that shape the forest industry in British Columbia, offering practical solutions to move forward, despite the many challenges and hardships that have manifested in recent years. This solo podcast episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in understanding the intricate landscape of forestry in British Columbia with an emphasis on secondary manufacturing.

Dr. Mark L. Teague is a seasoned executive, entrepreneur, and author whose remarkable journey from farmhand to finance executive has equipped him with a wealth of knowledge and unique insights into the challenges facing the American working class. With a PhD in Agricultural Economics from Oklahoma State University and an impressive track record in the banking and finance industry, Dr. Teague has established himself as an authority on navigating the modern business landscape while staying true to traditional values. Driven by a deep-rooted belief in the power of principled living and the importance of preserving the American working class, Dr. Teague’s mission is to empower working men with the tools and wisdom they need to thrive in their careers, relationships, and personal lives. He champions the working class, advocating for personal responsibility, resilience, and the pursuit of meaningful goals. His professional journey and dedication to traditional values in a modern world position him as a trusted guide for those striving to build a legacy of significance. Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Teague has held leadership positions at major financial institutions such as Toyota Financial Services, Metris Companies, and Sears Credit. His innovative strategies and decision science applications have led to significant business successes, including over $300 million in shareholder value, $3.5 billion in accounts receivables growth, and $850 million in credit loss reductions. Dr. Teague’s exceptional problem-solving skills and creativity have earned him numerous accolades, including the Business Partner of the Year Award from Sears Credit. He holds a B.S. from West Texas A&M University and a PhD from Oklahoma State University, both achieved with Summa Cum Laude honors. He has also contributed to several peer-reviewed articles in professional academic journals. When he’s not writing, reading, or advising, Dr. Teague enjoys spending time with his wife, Melissa, their four children, and nine grandchildren on their Texas ranch. An avid outdoorsman, he finds joy in alpine skiing, hiking, camping, and exploring nature with his family. Dr. Teague is also passionate about the shooting sports and cherishes the moments he spends teaching his grandchildren to ski and appreciate the great outdoors. For insights on living a life of significance and creating a meaningful legacy, visit Dr. Teague’s website at www.aworkingmansguide.com.

Aurora Winter is a creative entrepreneur who has built several seven-figure companies and has been featured on TV, radio, and podcasts. https://bit.ly/AuroraWinterPodcast Aurora believes that communication is the foundation of everything we do, yet it is an area where people often struggle to be effective. Drawing inspiration from Steve Jobs, who spent three weeks designing, practicing, and perfecting his Apple launches, Aurora highlights the power of words in driving success. Jobs’ mastery of communication triggered buying frenzies and helped build one of the most successful companies in the world. Aurora is passionate about helping others learn how to communicate powerfully, enabling them to launch businesses or movements and leave a lasting legacy. In her book, Turn Words Into Wealth, she explores the neuroscience of communication and reveals seven strategies for creating seven-figure success. In addition to her entrepreneurial pursuits, she emphasizes the importance of free speech, friendship, and family through her fast-paced YA fantasy series, Magic, Mystery, and the Multiverse.

Mickie Kennedy is an Experienced Podcast Guest and Best-Selling Author, Bringing a Positive, Matter-of-Fact Style on a Range of Subjects: Press Releases, PR, Marketing, Management, Poetry, and More. Mickie Kennedy created eReleases over 25 years ago to provide small businesses with access to the media and a national newswire—all with a personal touch. eReleases helps small businesses, startups, and authors gain website traffic and attract better quality customers through media coverage. The company excels in writing and distributing press releases to journalists, trade publications, and key industry influencers, thereby increasing visibility and credibility, and driving more revenue from dream clients. Mickie lives in Baltimore County with his family and two feuding cats, enjoys British science fiction, and admits to an unhealthy addiction to diet soda. He holds an MFA in Creative Writing with an emphasis in Poetry from George Mason University and continues to write poetry most Monday nights with a virtual group of fellow misfits from around Brunswick, Maryland. As a dynamic entrepreneur and poet, Mickie has seamlessly blended his creative and business skills to build eReleases into a leading press release distribution platform. With over 25 years of experience in public relations and marketing, Mickie has significantly impacted small businesses, authors, and startups by securing remarkable media coverage. His journey exemplifies the power of resilience, innovation, and mindfulness in business, demonstrating how one can successfully merge creativity with entrepreneurial acumen to achieve sustained success.

Percy Guichon, Executive Director of Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd., and Councillor of Tŝideldel First Nation, merges his passions in forestry and community development. Educated at the College of New Caledonia with a Forest Technician Diploma, and with years of lived experience, he significantly contributes to his community’s growth and sits on several boards, including the Eniyud Community Forests, Tsi Del Del Enterprises Ltd., Dandzen Development Corporation and Tl’etinqox Economic Development Corporation, enhancing local economic and environmental initiatives.As an individual who has been to a residential school - and was previously an elected chief in his community - Percy is deeply engaged with balancing his personal experiences while harnessing a progressive business perspective. Percy's role as a director of the Central Chilcotin Rehabilitation Ltd. has reiterated his beliefs that reconciliation is not just about acknowledging the past; it’s about reshaping the present and future to embrace the ideals of unity, opportunity, and collaboration.

en Rulon has been a triathlon/fitness coach for 22+ years and owns JenRulon.com. She received her Master's Degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in Exercise Science. Her knowledge as an author and speaker includes Triathlete Magazine, Runners World, on the TEDx Stage and the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Commencement Speaker, Men's Journal Online, “Self Motivation Strategies for Women,” (Amazon), and the New York Times. https://bit.ly/JenRulonPodcast Jen practiced what she preached—she's a 15x Ironman Triathlete who qualified and participated in the World Championship in Kona, Hawaii, on October 14, 2017. Jen is “retired” from the sport of triathlon and lives a life of surfing, abundance, strength training, walks, and catching the sunsets in Costa Rica.