Podcast
CanadianSME Small Business Podcast
Hosted by SK Uddin · EN
Welcome to the CanadianSME podcast, a podcast for Canadian Small Businesses. In our podcasts, we interview Canadian experts and entrepreneurs to give small business owners access to expert knowledge that helps them grow their enterprises. Our mission is to empower Canadian small and medium enterprises and help them reach a bigger audience through our platform. Calling upon some of the most successful subject matter experts in the industry, the small business podcasts aim at identifying issues and finding solutions, all this while helping the business owners.
178episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
The Future of Marketing Isn't More Content.It's Better Strategy.
3w ago00:20:21Tap to summarizeWelcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand. Today, we explore high-impact creative execution and building unified brand ecosystems. Joining us is Danielle McNeill, Co-Founder and Marketing Director at Definitely Real, leading strategy for their top-tier client roster including Arc’teryx and Nimmo Bay Resort. Key Highlights Brand Foundation: Branding must precede marketing to guide all creative efforts. Marketing Flow: Build a consistent marketing river rather than chasing one-off trends. Earned Growth: Small businesses can win through community and word-of-mouth marketing. Creative Preservation: AI challenges the sustainability of creative talent if unchecked. Mentorship Safety Net: Mentorship helps future-proof creative careers in an AI-driven world. Special Thanks to Our Partners: UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspx For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age! To learn more about how we are supporting the ecosystem, please visit the CanadianSME Small Business Foundation at smbfoundation.ca. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
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Ditching the Overhead: How to Operate a High-Impact Marketing Function on a Dime
3w ago00:14:51Tap to summarizeWelcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand. Today, we explore marketing strategies for professional service and B2B firms navigating rising media costs. Joining us is Brian Brett, Director of Marketing and Communications at Smith + Andersen, guiding full-stack marketing, brand strategy, and client acquisition for one of Canada’s premier engineering consultancies. Key Highlights Marketing on a Budget: Small businesses can build effective marketing functions cost-efficiently. B2B Marketing Strategies: Long-cycle industries require tailored, high-impact approaches. Communications vs. Marketing: Distinguishing these ensures clear strategic focus. Brand Equity: Strong branding helps firms escape commoditized markets. Corporate vs. Personal Relationships: Both are crucial in winning business. Special Thanks to Our Partners: UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspx For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age! To learn more about how we are supporting the ecosystem, please visit the CanadianSME Small Business Foundation at smbfoundation.ca. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
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Outpace the Market: A Leadership Blueprint for Corporate Reinvention
3w ago00:22:01Tap to summarizeWelcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand. Today, we explore enterprise brand transformation, risk management, and alternative portfolio evolution. Joining us is Leisha Roche, Chief Marketing Officer at PICTON Investments, leading market repositioning for one of Canada’s premier alternative investment firms. Key Highlights Brand as Growth Engine: Brand should drive strategic growth, not just marketing. Industry Transformation: Marketing can reshape an entire industry, not only a company. Investment Habits: PICTON is changing how the world approaches investing. Corporate Reinvention: Leaders must recognize when and how to reinvent business models. Leadership Mindset: Adopt a proactive mindset to navigate uncertainty and change. Special Thanks to Our Partners: UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspx For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age! To learn more about how we are supporting the ecosystem, please visit the CanadianSME Small Business Foundation at smbfoundation.ca. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
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Beyond the Firewall: The Comprehensive Blueprint to Passing Cyber Insurance Audits
3w ago00:17:12Tap to summarizeWelcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. Today, we explore workplace technology, cybersecurity risks, and protecting modern business operations. Joining us is Ryan Oriwol, Sales Executive at Davidson Violette & Associates Inc., sharing insights on secure infrastructure, risk mitigation, and technology strategies for Canadian businesses. Key Highlights Cyber Misconceptions: Understanding the real cybersecurity risks facing small businesses. Connected Device Risks: How overlooked hardware can create security vulnerabilities. Penetration Testing: Strengthening defenses through proactive security assessments. Cyber Insurance Challenges: Why compliance requirements are increasing for SMEs. Risk Assessment: How security audits improve protection and reduce operational costs. Special Thanks to Our Partners: UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspx For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age! To learn more about how we are supporting the ecosystem, please visit the CanadianSME Small Business Foundation at smbfoundation.ca. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
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Zero Equity, Max Growth: Inside Canada’s Largest Accelerator for Under-30 Founders
3w ago00:23:09Tap to summarizeWelcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand. Today, we explore youth-led venture creation, equitable capital access, and the role of entrepreneurship in driving economic mobility for young Canadians in 2026. Joining us is Rob Ironside, Executive Director of League of Innovators, who shares insights on supporting high-potential, youth-led businesses, zero-equity accelerators, and building the skills necessary for the future of work. Key Highlights Youth Founder Challenges: Rob outlines the economic barriers young entrepreneurs face today. Zero-Equity Accelerator Model: Rob explains why LOI offers a free, zero-equity program. Entrepreneurship for Social Mobility: Rob discusses how startups can drive community impact. Future-of-Work Skills: Rob highlights why entrepreneurial skills are essential for the workforce. Physical Innovation Spaces: Rob shares how North House supports collaboration and growth for founders. Special Thanks to Our Partners: UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspx For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age! To learn more about how we are supporting the ecosystem, please visit the CanadianSME Small Business Foundation at smbfoundation.ca. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
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AML Is Changing Fast: What FINTRAC Now Expects From Businesses!!
3w ago00:19:29Tap to summarizeWelcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand. Today, we explore the evolving landscape of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Anti-Terrorist Financing (ATF) in 2026, highlighting why robust compliance is crucial for both financial and non-bank sectors. Joining us is Mondiu Jaiyesimi, Partner at MNP LLP, leading AML and ATF advisory in Ontario. He shares insights on emerging trends, rising expectations for fintech and iGaming, and the board’s role in fostering a culture of compliance. Key Highlights Emerging AML Risks: Current trends and National Risk Assessment guidance for Canadian reporting entities. Non-Bank Expectations: Regulatory changes and practical challenges for iGaming, fintech, and PSPs. Board Engagement: How governance shapes compliance and involves boards without deep AML expertise. Program Optimization: Tips for building or updating AML programs and preparing for regulatory scrutiny. Core Takeaway: Key message for Canadian SMEs on confidently managing regulatory obligations. Special Thanks to Our Partners: UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspx For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age! To learn more about how we are supporting the ecosystem, please visit the CanadianSME Small Business Foundation at smbfoundation.ca. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
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Why Canada Is Rising to the Top of the Global Tech Scene
3w ago00:20:29Tap to summarizeWelcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. Today, we explore how to scale a specialized tech startup globally, drive cross-border team performance, and remain competitive in rapidly changing industries. Joining us is Erica Anderson, VP of Marketing & Product at Income Access, sharing her insights on growth strategy, international expansion, and navigating regulatory changes in Canada. Key Highlights Growth Journey: How Income Access has evolved over 17 years. Global Expansion: Lessons learned from scaling internationally. Regulatory Opportunities: Navigating Canada’s digital betting markets. Acquisition Strategy: Managing culture during the Paysafe acquisition. Market Relevance: Keeping an established business competitive in 2026. Special Thanks to Our Partners: UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspx For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age! To learn more about how we are supporting the ecosystem, please visit the CanadianSME Small Business Foundation at smbfoundation.ca. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
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How Leading Wealth Firms Are Using AI to Empower Advisors
3w ago00:16:38Tap to summarizeWelcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast hosted by Maheen Bari, where we explore strategies for scaling and modernizing professional services. Today, we focus on AI-driven wealth management and how advisors can protect client trust while reducing operational friction. Joining us is John Connell, Co-founder and CEO of Focal AI, Canada’s leading secure AI assistant for financial planners. John has led high-growth tech initiatives at Microsoft, compliance platforms, and wealth management firms. Key Highlights AI Gaps in Wealth Management: Generic AI models often fail to address operational inefficiencies for advisors. Time-Saving Agentic Workflows: Native AI assistants expand client capacity without additional headcount. Data Security & Compliance: AI platforms must meet Canada-specific residency and regulatory standards. Adapting for Intergenerational Clients: Advisors need strategies to maintain trust with digitally native investors. Go-To-Market Lessons for Regulated Tech: Founders must navigate compliance while scaling in Canada’s financial ecosystem. Special Thanks to Our Partners: UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspx For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age! To learn more about how we are supporting the ecosystem, please visit the CanadianSME Small Business Foundation at smbfoundation.ca. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
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The Ambiguity Tax: The Hidden Performance Cost of Unclear Corporate Roles
4w ago00:20:19Tap to summarizeWelcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Kripa Anand. Today, we explore behavioral science insights that optimize team performance under pressure. Joining us is Tammy Arseneau, Founder and CEO of Cortical Consulting & Coaching, a global expert in organizational effectiveness and leadership alignment. Key Highlights Outpaced Leader: Many leaders struggle to manage growing operational complexity. Cost of Ambiguity: Workplace ambiguity directly lowers team performance. Behavioral Insights: Stress shapes team communication and decision-making. Change Management Pitfalls: Companies often mishandle organizational change. Practical Clarity: Clear frameworks improve team alignment and decisions. Special Thanks to Our Partners: UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspx For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age! To learn more about how we are supporting the ecosystem, please visit the CanadianSME Small Business Foundation at smbfoundation.ca. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
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The Spreadsheet Crisis: Why Your Construction Tech Strategy Is Failing
4w ago00:18:04Tap to summarizeWelcome to the CanadianSME Small Business Podcast, hosted by Maheen Bari. Today, we explore how industrial companies can modernize operations and build resilience through practical digital transformation and operations-first architecture in 2026. Joining us is Frederic Elias, Head of Growth at OnTarget Group, a licensed engineer and MBA with global field experience in high-stakes environments. He now helps Canadian construction and manufacturing firms modernize through the Microsoft ecosystem. Key Highlights Execution Lessons: Insights from high-stakes international field operations. Operational Mistakes: The biggest gaps in industrial digital readiness today. Driving Adoption: Why transformation projects fail and how leaders can succeed. Practical Automation: Cutting through AI hype to implement usable solutions. Optimized Operations: What a fully streamlined construction or manufacturing operation looks like. Special Thanks to Our Partners: UPS: https://solutions.ups.com/ca-beunstoppable.html?WT.mc_id=BUSMEWA ADP Canada: https://www.adp.ca/en.aspx For more expert insights, visit www.canadiansme.ca and subscribe to the CanadianSME Small Business Magazine. Stay innovative, stay informed, and thrive in the digital age! To learn more about how we are supporting the ecosystem, please visit the CanadianSME Small Business Foundation at smbfoundation.ca. Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered as direct financial or business advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice specific to your situation.
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