In this episode, we dive into how leadership, innovation, and curiosity are shaping the future of work—and why women must have a seat at the table.

I’m joined by Kendra MacDonald, CEO of Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, who shares how she went from being a quiet math-loving introvert to leading a national innovation movement that has launched nearly 200 ocean companies and supported over 100 projects.

We talk about how to innovate inside legacy systems, why women are opting out of leadership roles, and how we can close the gap between technological advancement and adoption. Kendra also unpacks the mindset shifts required to lead transformative change, the importance of women in tech, and how to cultivate curiosity in both parenting and leadership.

If you’re an entrepreneur, innovator, or leader navigating rapid change—you’ll leave this conversation with powerful insights, practical advice, and renewed inspiration.

Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NDinn4iTFek

🌊 Connect with Kendra:

Website: oceansupercluster.ca

LinkedIn: Kendra MacDonald

Follow Kelley:

Website: www.entrepreneurialelevation.ca

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Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelleybeveridge/

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Disclaimer

The Entrepreneurial Elevation Podcast and content posted by Kelley Beveridge is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user's own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

Transcript

[00:01:00] Kendra introduces her role as CEO of Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, highlighting her path from accounting to innovation leadership. She shares her unconventional entry into the ocean economy and her passion for building impactful initiatives.

[00:04:00] She reflects on her early love for math and how becoming a CPA led her into tech-heavy industries like telecommunications, sparking her interest in process improvement and innovation.

[00:07:00] After global experience in Australia and Hong Kong, she shares how she became passionate about Canada’s innovation gap and why she said yes to leading the Ocean Supercluster—even without a traditional background in ocean sciences.

[00:09:00] Kendra discusses the mindset shift required to go from introverted CPA to global leader. A key belief change: embracing her love for building things and stepping into uncertainty despite critics.

[00:14:00] She encourages leaders—especially women—to focus on their unique perspectives rather than what they lack. Emphasizes the importance of soft skills, communication, and self-awareness for success at senior levels.

[00:17:00] Kendra shares her concern about the gender gap in tech and AI, urging women to get curious and confident with tools like ChatGPT. “Women must be at the table where innovation is being shaped.”

[00:22:00] On parenting and AI: She emphasizes that parents must model curiosity and encourage kids—especially daughters—to engage with technology. “Don’t discourage. Experiment together.”

[00:27:00] To stay innovative herself, she prioritizes continual learning—studying Spanish on Duolingo, playing with new AI tools, and surrounding herself with people she can learn from.

[00:33:00] When guiding innovation in organizations, she shares 3 success strategies: focus on the problem, don’t hire innovation roles in isolation, and create space for failure and learning.

[00:41:00] She closes with encouragement to parents and leaders to define their own work-life balance, stay aligned to their “why,” and commit to showing up for the future—not just reacting to it.