Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand. In this episode, we delve into the importance of building a purpose-driven business, strategic marketing for growth, and the crucial role of mental health in entrepreneurship. Our guest today is Jennifer Usher, Founder & Chief Marketing Strategist at Swoop Marketing & Communications , a full-service marketing consultancy that specializes in helping small-to-mid-sized businesses create meaningful and strategic campa...
Jul 02, 2025•21 min•Ep. 589
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand, where we explore the innovative solutions and entrepreneurial journeys that are shaping the future of Canadian business. In today’s episode, we focus on transforming compliance from a cost center into a competitive advantage, leveraging real-time frontline data for operational excellence, and the power of made-in-Canada technology. Recent trends highlight the increasing importance of efficient operations, data-driven decis...
Jun 27, 2025•36 min•Ep. 588
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand, where we explore the innovative technologies and solutions transforming various industries. Today, we’re focusing on property technology (proptech) and its profound impact on the real estate, architecture, construction, and insurance sectors. Recent trends emphasize the increasing importance of 3D virtual walkthroughs, accurate spatial data, and efficient digital tools for streamlining workflows. This discussion will provi...
Jun 27, 2025•22 min•Ep. 587
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand, where we explore innovative solutions and entrepreneurial journeys shaping the future of business. In today’s episode, we’re diving into the world of food technology and how AI is being used to tackle everyday challenges like food waste and grocery costs. Recent trends highlight the growing consumer awareness of sustainability and the increasing reliance on technology to simplify daily tasks. This episode will provide valu...
Jun 26, 2025•18 min•Ep. 586
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand, where we explore the strategies and leadership driving innovation in the digital entertainment space. In today’s episode, we focus on the evolving world of storytelling and the power of online platforms to connect writers and readers globally. Recent trends highlight the rise of webnovels and the growing importance of creator ecosystems in shaping the future of entertainment. This episode will provide valuable insights int...
Jun 25, 2025•29 min•Ep. 585
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand, where we explore the strategies and insights that empower businesses to thrive in today’s dynamic labor market. In this episode, we focus on the evolving landscape of talent acquisition, recruitment trends, and the challenges facing the Canadian workforce. Recent data from Statistics Canada shows significant shifts in employment trends, with certain industries facing labor shortages and a growing demand for skilled profess...
Jun 24, 2025•25 min•Ep. 584
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen, where we explore the strategies and mindsets that empower entrepreneurs to navigate the challenges of building a successful business. In today’s episode, we focus on resilience, personal practices for success, and the importance of having a clear mission statement. Recent trends emphasize the significance of mental fortitude, effective self-care, and a strong sense of purpose in achieving long-term entrepreneurial success. This...
Jun 23, 2025•19 min•Ep. 583
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen, where we explore the future of commerce and the technologies driving its evolution. In today’s episode, we focus on the transformative power of AI and human collaboration, the modernization of commerce systems, and the creation of adaptive digital experiences. Recent trends highlight rapid advancements in AI and the urgent need for businesses to adopt flexible, intelligent commerce solutions to stay competitive. This discussion...
Jun 23, 2025•17 min•Ep. 582
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen, where we explore the strategies and insights that empower entrepreneurs to build sustainable and profitable businesses. In today’s episode, we dive into the power of memberships and how they can create predictable revenue streams for business owners. Recent trends in the online business world show a growing interest in membership models, offering entrepreneurs an avenue to build recurring income while fostering strong, loyal co...
Jun 19, 2025•19 min•Ep. 581
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen, where we explore the transformative power of digital transformation and empower businesses to thrive in the ever-evolving digital economy. Digital transformation is no longer a luxury but a necessity for businesses in Canada. A recent study by IDC Canada revealed that 65% of Canadian businesses accelerated their digital transformation initiatives last year, showcasing how integral technology is to business success in today’s wo...
Jun 18, 2025•16 min•Ep. 580
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand. In this episode, we focus on the critical role of empowering frontline employees through innovative learning solutions. Frontline workers are the backbone of many organizations, and their engagement and training are pivotal in ensuring business success. Joining us today is Carol Leaman, Co-Founder and CEO of Axonify , a leader in frontline-focused learning and performance platforms, trusted by major companies like Walmart,...
Jun 17, 2025•18 min•Ep. 579
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen, where we explore the strategies and mindsets that drive exceptional success. In today’s episode, we dive into the world of asymmetric principles, a powerful framework for achieving outsized returns and navigating the path to extraordinary achievements. Recent trends in the startup ecosystem and venture capital highlight the importance of strategic risk-taking and identifying asymmetric opportunities. This episode will provide v...
Jun 13, 2025•23 min•Ep. 578
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand, where we equip you with the knowledge and strategies to navigate the complexities of running a business. In today’s episode, we focus on a critical area that can often be a source of stress and wasted resources: technology procurement. Recent trends highlight the challenges many small businesses face when making informed tech decisions, often leading to costly mistakes and inefficient systems. This episode will provide val...
Jun 12, 2025•17 min•Ep. 577
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand, where we explore the diverse avenues of entrepreneurship. In today’s episode, we dive into the world of franchising, looking beyond the traditional models and uncovering how a franchise consultant can help you find the perfect business opportunity to align with your life and career goals. Recent trends highlight the growing interest in franchise ownership as a pathway to entrepreneurship, offering a blend of independence a...
Jun 11, 2025•33 min•Ep. 576
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand, where we explore the strategies and insights that empower entrepreneurs to thrive in the digital age. In today’s episode, we dive into the power of social media marketing, creating content that converts, and the essential mindset needed for entrepreneurial success. Recent trends highlight the importance of social media for business visibility and sales, the need for engaging and effective content strategies, and the crucia...
Jun 11, 2025•18 min•Ep. 575
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand, where we explore strategies and insights that empower Canadian businesses to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world. In today’s episode, we focus on the critical importance of global thinking and cultural intelligence for businesses aiming to expand their horizons and achieve sustainable success. Recent trends underscore the necessity for businesses to look beyond domestic markets and embrace a global perspective. ...
Jun 10, 2025•23 min•Ep. 574
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen, where we explore the journeys of innovative leaders and the companies they build. In today’s episode, we dive into the critical field of cybersecurity with a visionary entrepreneur who’s transforming the industry. Our guest today is Claudette McGowan , CEO and Founder of Protexxa , a Canadian-based cybersecurity software and services company. With over 20 years of experience leading digital transformations and implementing cybe...
Jun 10, 2025•12 min•Ep. 574
Welcome to the Indigenous-SME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen, where we celebrate the resilience, innovation, and diversity of Canada's Indigenous business communities. In this episode, we're diving into the inspiring stories of Indigenous entrepreneurs and exploring the unique challenges and opportunities they face. Joining us today are two distinguished guests: Dr. Wanda Wuttunee, Professor Emerita in Indigenous Studies at the University of Manitoba, and Fred Wien, Professor Emeritus ...
Jun 05, 2025•24 min•Ep. 573
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen, where we explore how technology is transforming small businesses and unlocking new opportunities. In today’s episode, we dive into the revolutionary impact of AI—from automating processes and enhancing customer interactions to driving smarter, data-driven decisions. Our guest is Helmut Neher, founder and CEO of H10 Inc. , a remote-first AI software company dedicated to helping small and medium-sized businesses harness AI’s powe...
Jun 05, 2025•20 min•Ep. 572
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, where we explore the strategies and insights that empower Canadian businesses to thrive in the digital age. Today, we are focusing on key areas that are crucial for SMEs: accelerating AI adoption, futureproofing for global opportunities, and fostering the talent needed for transformative technologies. Recent trends highlight the increasing importance of AI for productivity, the need for SMEs to expand their global reach, and the critical role of...
Jun 03, 2025•22 min•Ep. 571
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen, where we explore innovative strategies for business growth. In today’s episode, we focus on the evolving landscape of recruitment and how companies can build highly productive remote and international teams. Recent trends show the rising adoption of remote work and highlight the need for effective strategies to manage and optimize global teams. This discussion provides valuable insights into building a strong company culture an...
Jun 03, 2025•28 min•Ep. 570
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen, where we dive into critical topics that shape the future of Canadian businesses. In today’s episode, we’re discussing the complexities of selling your privately held business, an important yet often challenging process, especially for owners nearing retirement. As many business owners consider transitioning out of their companies, understanding how to make your business an attractive acquisition target and navigating proprietar...
Jun 02, 2025•33 min•Ep. 569
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen, where we explore the strategies and technologies that empower businesses to achieve sustainable growth. In today’s episode, we focus on key areas such as scaling operations, continuous learning, and leveraging customer experience as a driver of success. Recent trends emphasize the importance of adaptability, a commitment to ongoing development, and customer-centric strategies in today’s competitive market. This episode will pro...
May 22, 2025•19 min•Ep. 568
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast! I’m your host, Maheen Bari. Today, we’re highlighting the journey of a trailblazing female entrepreneur who’s revolutionizing the skincare industry. In a world where self-care is becoming more important than ever, we’re joined by Olga Roberts, Co-Owner and COO of Collage , a Canadian skincare brand dedicated to empowering individuals to embrace their natural glow. Olga shares her entrepreneurial journey, the inspiration behind Collage, and how t...
May 21, 2025•26 min•Ep. 567
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari, where we explore the strategies and technologies that empower businesses to thrive in the digital age. In today’s episode, we dive into the evolution of mobile-first software development, explore effective growth strategies including the power of networking, and discuss the critical opportunities for modernizing legacy systems. Joining us is Matt Strentse, Co-Founder and Chief Relations Officer of Iversoft , a 100% Canadia...
May 20, 2025•16 min•Ep. 566
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen, where we explore the strategies and leadership that drive success in the fitness industry. Today, we dive into scaling a fitness brand, the power of community engagement, and the evolving trends shaping the future of fitness. Our guest, Chris Smith, CEO of Fitness World Canada , shares insights on growing a multi-location gym chain, enhancing member experience, and launching a franchise model. Whether you’re a fitness professio...
May 15, 2025•15 min•Ep. 565
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, where we explore strategies and insights that empower individuals and communities to thrive. Hosted by Maheen, today’s episode dives into the critical topic of financial literacy in Canada. Join us as Krupal Vaghela , Sr. Deputy Leader at Vosyn and a passionate advocate for financial empowerment, shares expert perspectives on the current state of financial literacy, practical strategies to bridge knowledge gaps, and how digital tools combined wi...
May 15, 2025•18 min•Ep. 564
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand! Today, we’re shining a spotlight on the incredible work of Immigrant Women in Business (IWB), an organization that empowers immigrant women to thrive as entrepreneurs in Canada’s vibrant business landscape. Immigrant women are a vital part of Canada’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, and their contributions to economic growth and diversity are invaluable. Our guests today are Svetlana Ratnikova , CEO of IWB , and Maria Carolina ...
May 14, 2025•19 min•Ep. 563
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, where we explore the strategies and initiatives that empower Canadian entrepreneurs. In today’s episode, we’re focusing on the crucial areas of community building, mental health, and brand development—all essential for the success of small businesses. As trends in the business world shift, building strong networks, prioritizing founder well-being, and crafting an impactful brand are more important than ever. This discussion will provide valuable...
May 13, 2025•20 min•Ep. 562
Welcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. Today, we’re diving into the exciting world of Artificial Intelligence and its game-changing potential for small businesses. As AI continues to revolutionize industries, understanding how to leverage this technology is key to staying competitive, even for smaller businesses. We’re joined by Marc DiGiorgio , Co-founder and Managing Director of TekStack , to explore how AI can boost growth, efficiency, and customer experienc...
May 12, 2025•20 min•Ep. 561
