Success Leaves Clues with Robin Bailey and Al McDonald (A Starting with One Podcast)

Guest James Carrick, International Senior Manager at Engage Health Group, has worked for some of the biggest names in International Health Insurance, including Aetna and Aviva. Engage is an innovative, dynamic, ahead-of-the-curve firm expanding its global presence by providing innovative solutions across the evolving global employee benefits market. 

Based in the U.K. James has worked within the international benefits arena for 16 years and his ability to adapt to maintain international relationships is one of the best in the business. He discusses his background and experience as an International corporate and SME commercial lead within the industry as well as his approach to consultancy.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this episode of the Success Leaves Clues podcast, hosts Robin and Al engage in a rich conversation with Larissa Holmes, co-founder and CEO of Coterie. Larissa shares her mission to empower women through sports, emphasizing the importance of social connections and community. She discusses her personal journey from being a varsity athlete to management consulting and ultimately founding Coterie, a cutting-edge platform that empowers women by democratizing private club sports through technology.

The conversation explores the barriers women face in sports and business, the challenges of scaling a startup, and the significance of focus and accountability for founders. Larissa also highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in leadership roles, advocating for greater representation of LGBTQ+ individuals and other marginalized groups.

"Coterie is just an evolution of my own personal mission to continue to elevate and equalize women within this world." ~ Larissa Holmes

Key Takeaways:

• Larissa’s mission is to empower women through sports.
• Coterie’s goal redefines what it means to be an athlete.
• There is a tendency for women to self-select out of opportunities in sports.
• Confidence is especially important for women’s participation in sports.
• Scaling a business requires focus, accountability, and vulnerability.
• Diversity in leadership provides unique and valuable perspectives.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Tune in as hosts Robin and Al sit down with Allison Sandmeyer-Graves, the trailblazing CEO of Canadian Women & Sport. Alison takes us on a compelling journey through her path to sports leadership, sharing candid insights into the triumphs and challenges of advancing gender equity in a traditionally male-dominated field. From breaking down systemic barriers to fostering inclusive environments, Alison’s vision and determination are paving the way for a more equitable future in sports. She offers a fresh perspective on redefining leadership success, the power of continuous learning and unlearning, and the critical role men play in championing gender equity.

This episode isn’t just about sports—it’s about creating lasting impact and reshaping the future for women in Canada and beyond. Whether you're a leader, an ally, or someone passionate about inclusion, this conversation will leave you inspired and motivated to make a difference.

"Sport is the vehicle, but the goal is women's empowerment." ~ Alison Sandmeyer-Graves

Takeaways:

1. Empowerment through Sports: Alison’s journey reflects a commitment to justice, with sports serving as a platform for women’s empowerment and a means to challenge systemic barriers in leadership.
2. Redefining Leadership: Success and leadership are non-linear, requiring continuous learning, unlearning, and challenging traditional norms to create inclusive environments.
3. Building Capacity for Equity: For sports systems to fulfill their promise of equity, building organizational capacity and addressing systemic barriers are essential.
4. Shaping the Future: The future of women’s sports is evolving, with raising boys to respect women playing a vital role in driving progress and achieving lasting change.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Stacey is a woman of many passions.  She is a business owner, teacher and mother of two.  Through her business' she has won the Hamilton Spectator Reader's Choice Award and has been recognized with a 40 under 40 business award. Most recently, she was featured as 1 of 20 women in the Suffragette City photo exhibit to recognize female leaders, role models, mentors and creatives shaking things up in Hamilton.  In an effort to bring more balance to her client's lives, Stacey has recently become a meditation teacher and opened one of Hamilton's first Float Therapy studios, Zee Float.  Tune in as we take a deep dive (pun intended) to see what floats her boat (also intended).  My conversation with Stacey was both interesting and fun.  I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.  RB

In this episode, Robin Bailey is joined by guest co-host Deb Voorheis in an interview with Lisa Taylor, president of Challenge Factory, igniting transformative, measurable change for people and workplaces. She is also the author of The Talent Revolution: Longevity and the Future of Work, a definitive guide to maximizing workforce value.

They discuss the origins of Challenge Factory's name and its mission to tackle the challenges workforces and leaders face. They also explore the future of work, including the need for lifelong learning, the changing nature of careers, and the importance of recognizing and valuing older workers. Lisa shares her experience as a young entrepreneur and the advantages and disadvantages she faced. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the return to work and the role of employers in facilitating a positive work environment.

"We're gonna have to continue to learn all the way through our careers and not just in like little bits of training, but actually significantly adjusting to shifts and changes, including making significant career changes along the way as the norm." ~ Lisa Taylor

Key Takeaways

• The future of work requires lifelong learning and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances and career paths.
• Older workers bring valuable soft skills and wisdom to the workforce, and age should not be a barrier to engagement and opportunities.
• Entrepreneurship can be a rewarding and satisfying career path, but it requires hard work and perseverance.
• Return to work should be approached with consideration for employees' needs and preferences, balancing remote and in-person work.
• Employers play a crucial role in creating a positive work environment and supporting the well-being and growth of their workforce.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group 

From innovative strategies to building trust and accountability in the insurance industry, Jonathan DiPasquale, President of Instant Risk Coverage, shares powerful insights on leadership, the significance of mental health and work-life balance, and creating a seamless user experience. Listen in to discover the innovative approaches taken to adapt and thrive and the importance of building trust and accountability in the insurance industry. Hosts Robin and Al also uncover how Jonathan is shaping the future of insurance while leaving a lasting impact on the Canadian economy.

"Don't waste a good crisis." ~ Jonathon DiPasquale

Takeaways:

1. Adaptation and Innovation: Rapid adaptation and innovation during challenges, like COVID, can strengthen a business.
2. Trust and Accountability: Transparency and accountability are key to building loyalty and strong client relationships.
3. Employee and Mental Well-Being: Investing in employee growth and prioritizing mental health drive retention, productivity, and success.
4. Customer Experience and Culture: A seamless user experience and a strong company culture are essential for long-term success.
5. Leadership and Growth: Learning from mistakes and fostering homegrown businesses can help leaders and the Canadian economy thrive.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this captivating episode, hosts Robin and Al sit down with Jon Shell, Chair of Social Capital Partners, for a compelling conversation about the transformative potential of employee ownership and the stakes involved. Jon takes us on his journey from the private sector to championing public policy changes that support Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) in Canada. Together, they explore how EOTs can preserve businesses, empower employees as owners, and create a more equitable economy. Tune in to discover the benefits, challenges, and profound impact employee ownership could have on wealth distribution and economic resilience in Canada.

"You can't salary your way to wealth." ~ Jon Shell

Key Takeaways:

1. Economic Resilience: Employee ownership enhances job security, loyalty, and company performance, particularly during economic downturns.
2. Public Policy and Wealth Distribution: Policy initiatives, like those supported by the Canadian Employee Ownership Coalition, are key to broadening access to wealth and fostering economic change.
3. Succession Planning with EOTs: Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) offer a tax-advantaged, sustainable succession option for business owners, with the first $10 million in capital gains being tax-free in Canada.
4. Ideal Candidates and Growing Interest: Stable, mature companies with strong cash flow are well-suited for EOTs, reflecting the growing interest in employee ownership across Canada.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this episode, we welcome Shawn Hewat CEO & Co-founder of Wavy, a platform that empowers remote and hybrid teams to improve employee connection and foster a shared sense of community through easy breezy team-building events. She loves working with people leaders to develop always-on culture programming, through a combination of social, wellness, and learning experiences for both company-wide and department-based engagement.

With a background in marketing and employee engagement, Shawn is passionate about the future of work, people & culture, and work-play-life balance. Described as someone who "has the ability to bring any idea to life that she believes in", she shares some of the key learnings she has gained throughout her experience.

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We welcome back Leah Carr, strategy & operations leader and CEO at tilr™, a platform that allows organizations to reliably hire, develop & invest in highly skilled talent.

Leah shares her knowledge of how skills for roles are changing, how we get people to stay longer in these roles and why younger generations get labelled job hoppers. She also reveals what progress has been made in the need to adopt skills-based strategies to face the challenges of matching job openings to the existing labour force.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this episode, hosts Robin and Al are joined by Joanna Muzzatti, the CEO of IT solutions provider Commerx. Joanna, who embraces the mantra "Choose kind," takes immense satisfaction in uncovering the key elements that drive her customers and contribute to their success. Joanna discusses the definition of success, the challenges of being a female leader in a male-dominated industry, and the importance of self-care and work-life balance. She shares her journey in the IT industry and the lessons she has learned while emphasizing the value of trust, kindness, and building a strong team. Joanna also talks about the importance of being present in the moment and appreciating the journey rather than just focusing on the destination.

"Success is when everyone that I touch is happy and feels safe and heard." ~ Joanna Muzzatti

Key Takeaways

• The biggest obstacle to success is often your own self-confidence.
• Burnout is a real issue, and it's important to disconnect and take time for yourself.
• Focus on the journey and appreciate the small victories along the way.
• Tolerance and open-mindedness can transform society.
• Don't try to go to the top right away, take the time to learn and grow.
• Trust your gut instinct when making decisions about people and partnerships.
• Choose kindness, even in difficult situations.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Ready to rethink the future of work? Join hosts Robin and Al for a compelling conversation with Jodi Kovitz, author, founder (#movethedial), and CEO of HRPA, on the shifting landscape of HR leadership. From redefining empathetic leadership and securing a strategic seat at the table to tackling burnout and leveraging AI, this episode explores what it takes to build inclusive, thriving workplaces that drive success and national prosperity.

"Empathy is about humanity." ~ Jodi Kovitz

Takeaways:

• Evolving HR Leadership: Modern HR leaders must adapt to new challenges and actively shape business strategy, using AI to enhance, not replace, human work.
• Empathy and Communication: Empathetic leadership and clear communication are crucial for building trust, connection, and a supportive work environment.
• Employee Well-being and Flexibility: Preventing burnout requires proactive support and flexible work arrangements to maintain a healthy and engaged workforce.
• Inclusive and Engaging Cultures: Inclusive cultures drive employee engagement, retention, and foster a connected workplace.
• Development and Generational Understanding: Investing in employee development and understanding generational differences can significantly improve workplace dynamics and overall success.

Interested in attending the “More Than Human: Passion driven, People Focused” HRPA Summit 2024? Go to this link and use discount code ARIA25 for virtual attendance.

Details of the conference can be found here: HRPA Summit 2024

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Barb Martinez is the National Practice Leader, Drug Benefit Solutions, Great-West Life. Barb supports sales offices across Canada on prescription drug management initiatives.  She plays a key role in supporting advisors and their clients, including designing and managing drug benefit plans with Great-West Life Drug Solutions.  Barb's knowledge and strategic thinking make her one of the most sought after speakers and contributors in the employee benefits industry today.  Tune is as we discuss issues such as rising drug costs, pharmacoeconomics, specialty drugs as well as biologics and  how they are adding to these rising costs.  Barb also dives into the SMART program that Great-West Life has rolled out.  Whether you are a business owner, plan sponsor or a plan member, this is an episode you'll want to listen to.  I had a great time speaking with Barb. I hope you enjoy it!

Matt Hibberd, CEO, and Meghan Reesor, COO, of Kameo Care, join us in this episode, exploring the benefits of on-site dental care for businesses and employees. For any organization looking to enhance its employee wellness platform, Kameo Care provides on-site oral health solutions for businesses, promoting a culture of wellness that helps prevent lost hours by decreasing absenteeism and increasing productivity. Matt & Meghan discuss the importance of prioritizing dental health and its impact on overall well-being. They also highlight the challenges and lessons learned from rapidly expanding their business and building a strong team. The future vision for Kameo Care includes expanding its services to other forms of healthcare and becoming a one-stop shop for on-site health services for companies in Canada.

Key Takeaways

• Prioritizing dental health is crucial for overall well-being, as oral health is connected to heart disease, strokes, and diabetes.
• Rapidly expanding a business requires a strong team and a culture of feedback and continuous improvement.
• Offering on-site dental care reduces absenteeism and improves productivity by saving employees time and providing convenient access to preventive care.

"This is a fantastic service to bolster your employer brand and to utilize for talent acquisition and retention." ~ Meghan Reesor

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group 

Entrepreneur and owner of People To Go, Chris Collins, shares his journey from studying history to starting a career in IT and eventually becoming part of the ownership team at PeopleToGo. He discusses the company's background and its focus on providing skilled IT resources and technology staffing services and solutions for companies of all sizes as the technology skills gap continues to grow and impact their businesses. As part of the leadership team, Chris highlights the importance of creating a positive employee experience and achieving Great Place To Work® Certification. He concludes by discussing his excitement for the future and his focus on investing in employees and creating growth opportunities.

Key Takeaways:

• Investing in employees and creating a positive employee experience is crucial for business success.

• Overcoming personal obstacles and maintaining work-life balance is essential for long-term well-being.

• Collaboration and consensus-driven decision-making can lead to a more inclusive and successful organization.

• Planting seeds for the future by investing in employees and creating growth opportunities is key to long-term success.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

You will meet a lot of people throughout your career. Some will have a massive impact on you, while others may not at all. Today we sit down with Kyle Dennis—Aka 'KD'—who Robin met over 15 years ago. Kyle even helped launch the podcast as one of our first guests. Listen in to hear why both their business relationship as well as their friendship, has endured for so many years. 

Kyle shares some of the clues to his success, discussing his career journey, his most satisfying moments in business and key learnings along the way including his recent step into the role of National Vice President, Partner Solutions at People Corporation—helping businesses succeed and making a difference in the lives of more than one million Canadian employees and their families by providing employee group benefits, group retirement, wellness, and human resource solutions.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on leadership that goes beyond business as usual. Hosts Robin and Al sit down with Cerys Goodall, COO of Vetster, to explore her bold career journey across industries and her refreshing insights on success, bravery, and the art of building an intentional company culture. Cerys shares how taking risks, fostering empathy, and embedding values into everyday practices can transform both personal growth and organizational integrity.

The conversation emphasizes the importance of being curious and resilient in navigating career challenges, the necessity of intentional company culture, and how core values should guide business decisions. Cerys also highlights the future of telemedicine for pets and her commitment to community service and pay equity, advocating for early financial success for women in tech.

"Failure is just another step in your journey." ~ Cerys Goodall

Key Takeaways

1. Embrace Bravery and Learning: Success comes from being brave, trying new things, and embracing failures as steps in growth.
2. Values-Driven Culture: Intentional culture-building and embedding core values into everyday practices strengthen integrity, especially during challenging times.
3. Empathy and Trust: Building empathy and mutual respect are foundational for understanding customer needs and fostering strong business relationships.
4. Inclusivity and Equity: Safe spaces, pay equity, and support for women in tech and underserved communities are vital for inclusivity and success.
5. Adaptability in Leadership: Versatility, curiosity, and resilience are essential in tech careers, helping leaders navigate dynamic environments like telemedicine and evolving workplace dynamics.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

As AI reshapes the workplace, the role of HR is evolving faster than ever. On this episode of the Success Leaves Clues podcast, Robin and Al sit down with Roald Harvey, Senior Director of People at Athenian, to explore the shift from traditional human resources to cognitive resources. Roald shares his insights on how AI is transforming HR functions, its impact on job security, and why embracing technology is key to staying ahead. The conversation dives into the importance of building strong relationships, overcoming resistance to change, and leveraging AI as a tool to enhance—not replace—the human element in HR. If you’re curious about the future of work and how HR leaders can thrive in the age of AI, this episode is a must-listen.

"Start with something fun to dabble in AI." ~ Roald Harvey

Key takeaways:

✨ AI is revolutionizing HR by automating tasks and enhancing talent acquisition

✨ Professionals must focus on their unique value and embrace continuous learning

✨ AI frees up HR teams to prioritize strategy, relationships, and business growth

✨ Organizations must balance AI adoption with ethical data usage and privacy concerns

✨ Embracing AI can lead to better business outcomes, career growth, and efficiency

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Joining us is Robb Gilbear founder at Growth Habit. Robb's journey hasn't been your typical one. He started his first business as a teenager, did cubicle time in big multinationals, toured from coast to coast as a DJ, and spent half a decade as a People & Culture leader in award-winning tech companies before launching Growth Habit. He is a caring mentor who's helped hundreds of coaches and entrepreneurs, in 13 countries, successfully launch and scale their businesses

Through it all, Robb's been driven by the desire to understand what makes businesses thrive regardless of the market conditions and what truly makes people more confident, creative, joyful, and impactful.

He is also the author of the best-selling book Die Before They Do, a collection of stories that shares his journey through entrepreneurship, self-doubt, massive career changes, struggles with alcohol, near death experiences, an obsession with music, finding love, and being a parent—all while searching for bigger meaning and purpose in one’s life.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In episode 7 we hear from Howard Kettner of The Benefits Genius.  Howard is the reason I am podcasting today so it was a thrill to sit down with the man himself to see where it all started.  I chat with Howard about how and why he started the Benefits Genius Group, and why it's important.  We further delve into what challenges face both broker's and their client's in today's marketplace and what both parties should be doing to prepare themselves. Finally, Howard shares with us a few apps that have improved his daily life.  Enjoy.

In this episode of the Success Leaves Clues podcast, we interview Matt Brady, Director of Business Development at Advica Health. This company supports executives and individuals who want to personalize their healthcare journey to help improve their health outcomes. Matt discusses the services offered by Advica Health, including executive health assessments, virtual healthcare, and mental health support. He also talks about the importance of personalized healthcare and the role of precision health in improving health outcomes. Matt shares success stories and highlights the value of his work in helping individuals and their families.

"Preventative health and longevity are trending up." ~ Matt Brady

Key Takeaways

• Advica Health helps executives and individuals navigate the healthcare system to find the best health solutions.
• Advica Health takes a personalized approach to healthcare, considering factors such as lifestyle, environment, and genetics.
• Precision health, which focuses on personalized healthcare, is an emerging field that aims to improve health outcomes.
• Advica Health has had success stories in detecting and treating health issues early, leading to positive outcomes.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Joining us is Yiorgos Boudouris, Head of Talent at Tiny Mile. He is a recruitment leader with 15 years of experience building organizations in various industries. Always curious about how people grow, Yiorgos feels fortunate that he is able to listen to people's stories and help set them up for success every day. He is also an experienced career coach who loves providing job seekers with the support and tools they need to pursue their career goals.

He discusses some of the most important elements of the recruitment process including compensation and pay transparency, the benefit of having a foundation in recruitment as an HR leader, and touches on some of the changes that he's seen take place across the industry when it comes to how candidates engage with recruiters during the hiring process.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

We welcome guest Cerys Cook, Chief People Officer at Swift Medical, a rapidly scaling medical technology company in Toronto. She shares her career journey from professional chef to the field of HR and her philosophy to always be the hardest working person in the room by being your best self every single day. She also expresses her passion for the vast and brilliant opportunities she & her team can provide for people so they too can thrive in their work through exceptional employee experiences.  

Cerys has extensive expertise in successfully scaling businesses across multiple industries and believes in building healthy cultures where people can show up as their authentic selves.

Special guest Saira Gangji is an independent licensed workplace investigator, a solopreneur, and the founder of hrology, who works with organizations that have had allegations or complaints of discrimination, harassment, violence, misconduct, or a toxic work environment. She has 20+ years of HR experience and 150+ workplace investigations and assessments under her belt. With empathy as her superpower, she is able to treat employees as people, not a process, and approaches each case with a degree of compassion and humanity, a balance of head and heart, and scrupulous fairness.

Saira is also the creator of The Workplace Investigation Bootcamp - a step-by-step, self-paced, online course to help HR professionals lead workplace investigations with confidence, ease, integrity, and the best possible outcomes.

Saira shares the catalyst that ignited her passion for this career journey and discusses some of the personal challenges she encountered while striving for success.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits & Life & Legacy Advisory Group

We welcome seasoned HR leader, Jesse Cheetham, Director of People & Culture at MSP Corp who believes in driving change and delivering impactful business solutions while rejecting stereotypical HR practices.

Jesse is a cultural curator with nearly two decades of experience starting, scaling, and transforming organizations across Canada and the United States. As the Director of People & Culture at MSP Corp., a leading tech company in Canada, Jesse is driving growth and shaping the future of the industry. His philosophy is centred around building organizations that prioritize the growth and development of their people. He believes in creating safe spaces where authentic individuals can bring their unique talents to the table, free from ego and limitations. Jesse's passion, experience, and leadership make him a truly inspiring figure in the world of business and human resources.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Wow! Was this ever a fun podcast to do with Dean Benard from Benard & Assoicates! Dean is an investigator, mediator, coach and entrepreneur who has had quite an eclectic career.  Believe me, this is not your typical investigation firm. Dean and his team are experts with the background to prove it! The team at Benard & Associates offer multiple solutions for managing conflict and addressing workplace issues.  Dean is living proof that there are no mistakes, that every phase of your career helps you form the successful person you are meant to become!  We hear why Dean pursued a slightly different path when it came to offering an employee benefit plan and the challenges he faces as a business owner. You won't miss Dean's enthusiasm for all things in life in the podcast.  I hope you enjoy the conversation as much as I did.  RB

What have you always wanted to know about Health Spending Accounts but have been too afraid to ask?  Well, here's your opportunity to listen in and hear it from two of the top minds in the industry.  In today's episode, we have a great conversation with Tim Kane and Steve McEwan of myHSA.  These two are really fun to speak with and you'll hear us discuss everything from HSA's, PSA's, WSA's...don't worry, we break down what all these silly letters mean and how they can help your company.  The folks at myHSA are doing some very cool things in our industry, so it's been amazing to watch their growth and development.  This one was a lot of fun to do.  I hope you enjoy it. RB

In this episode, Jodi Kovitz, CEO of HRPA (Human Resources Professional Association), shares her inspiring career journey with host Robin Bailey and guest host Deb Voorheis. She discusses the impact of Move the Dial, her transition to HRPA, and the future of HR and people leadership. The conversation delves into themes of entrepreneurship, equity and belonging, highlighting the significance of mentorship and paying it forward to the younger generation. Additionally, the discussion explores the strategic plan for the HRPA, focusing on delivering value to its members and creating a more relevant and impactful organization.

"I'm always actively trying to mentor, support, encourage, pull up a chair for folks trying to do amazing things in the world." ~ Jodi Kovitz

Key Takeaways

• Jodi Kovitz's career journey is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship, mentorship, and resilience.
• The impact of Move the Dial and its role in advancing diversity and inclusion in the tech industry is significant.
• The transformation of HRPA reflects a vision for empowering and inspiring HR professionals at all career stages.
• Belonging is about being seen for who you are and encouraged to thrive as your unique self.
• Mentors play a crucial role in recognizing and nurturing the potential of individuals, providing guidance and permission to pursue opportunities.
• Mentorship is a two-way street, requiring mutual benefit and commitment from both parties, and it is essential to pay it forward to the younger generation.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group 

Robin & Al welcome guest Nadia Ghani to the podcast. Nadia is a detail-oriented Human Resources Generalist who values commitment and exudes a passion for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI), as well as accessibility strategies. She is committed towards learning and ensuring that everyone counts. Her Why? To give back in meaningful & impactful ways.

Nadia believes that growing up in Bangladesh gives her a unique perspective while working with 500+ Associates from diverse backgrounds has made her see the impact & value that diversity and inclusion have on organizations wishing to thrive by broadening their reach to countless individuals.

So we've heard the insurance carriers talk about the value of Pharmacogenetic Testing for several months now.  But what about physicians?  What do they really think about this topic?  I decided to find out.  In the episode, we speak with Dr Angus Franklin.  Not only is Dr Franklin a practicing physician, he's also a Ph.D in molecular genetics.  Tune in as we take a deep dive into this topic, along with a few others for good measure.  I had a great time speaking with Dr. Franklin.  I hope you enjoy it! RB

In this episode of the Success Leaves Clues podcast, Robin and Al welcome Brendan Taylor, President of Mavericks VFX, a Toronto-based visual effects studio.

Brendan takes us through his unexpected leap into entrepreneurship and the creative mindset that has driven his success in the visual effects industry. He opens up about the bold risks and challenges of scaling a business, highlighting the critical role of strong processes and a supportive network. Brendan also redefines what success truly means, shifting the focus from traditional accolades to the impact of a positive workplace culture and the importance of building a team that feels valued and inspired.

"Take the information, leave the emotion." ~ Brendan Taylor

Takeaways:

1. Embrace Risk and Creativity: Taking risks and navigating the messy creative process are essential for growth and innovation in any business.
2. Resilience and Support: Success requires resilience, stepping out of comfort zones, and surrounding yourself with a supportive network.
3. Empowering Workplace Culture: A strong, nurturing culture is built through clear direction, employee feedback, and connecting staff to the larger purpose of their work.
4. Long-Term Vision and Legacy: Fostering innovation, tracking employee satisfaction, and aiming to be the best employer are key steps in building a lasting legacy in the industry.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

With over 13 years of experience in strategy, talent management, leadership development, change management and employee engagement our guest, Alex Meers, Director of Employer Branding and Culture at Blu Ivy, has been enabling organizations to grow and succeed through their culture and people practices to attract top talent.

He works with executive leaders to develop best-in-class employment brand and employee experiences including some of North America's largest brands helping them build cultures where people love what they do, know how to be successful and strive for excellence.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Coaching is no longer just a perk—it’s becoming a must-have for high-performing individuals and forward-thinking organizations.

In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin and Al sit down with Makenzie Chilton, Director of Coaching at Arcora, to explore the evolving role of coaching in today’s workplace. Makenzie shares how her personal journey led her into the world of coaching and why it’s gaining traction across Canada, especially among top performers.

The conversation dives into the difference between proactive and reactive coaching, the power of setting boundaries, and the measurable impact coaching has on both people and performance. Makenzie also highlights how investing in coaching helps create workplaces where employees thrive—benefiting individuals, companies, and communities alike.

"You can't always just say yes." ~ Makenzie Chilton

Key takeaways:

✨ Coaching = Growth – It’s not just about solving problems, but about unlocking potential.

✨ Proactive & Reactive Value – Coaching supports both development and resilience.

✨ Boundaries Matter – Personal traits like boundary-setting are key to sustainable success.

✨ A Strategic Investment – Organizations that invest in coaching signal real commitment to employee growth.

✨ Track the Impact – Data helps demonstrate coaching’s ROI and long-term value.

If you’re curious about how coaching can shape culture, drive performance, and support your people, this episode is a must-listen. 🎙️

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Robin & Al welcome guests Hannah Yardley, Chief People and Culture Officer and Kristy Jones, Senior Director, Employee Success from Achievers, two passionate Human Resources Leaders building high-performing teams through innovative HR solutions.

Hannah & Kristy discuss their own HR success stories as part of Achievers, a cloud-based employee engagement platform that enables companies to engage, align and recognize their greatest asset—their employees—driving retention, productivity, customer satisfaction, as well as other key business outcomes.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits & Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Join hosts Robin Bailey & Al McDonald as they celebrate the 200th episode of Success Leaves Clues reflecting on the friendships that have developed as a result of the podcast and the impact it has had on each of them.

"To our wonderful guests, past and present, thank you for sharing your wisdom, experiences, and passion. You have made this podcast an enjoyable and enriching experience, one that we hope our listeners eagerly anticipate each week. Your contributions have not only made our show possible but have also left an indelible mark on our audience and on each of us personally. Here's to many more episodes of inspiration, growth, and shared success. Thank you for being a part of our story." ~ R & A

They are joined by special guest, employment and labour lawyer Rich Appiah, who shares his deeply personal journey of self-discovery and finding success. Rich emphasizes the importance of understanding oneself and surrounding oneself with supportive and positive people. He also discusses the significance of authenticity and how it has contributed to his success. The episode concludes with a discussion on mental health and the importance of seeking help when needed.

"I feel like I can step into the world and just be myself." ~ Rich Appiah

Key Takeaways

• Self-discovery is crucial for finding success
• Surrounding oneself with positive and supportive people is essential
• Authenticity is a key factor in achieving success
• Seeking help for mental health is important and can lead to personal growth

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group 

Julie Ford is the founder and Principal Consultant at Glance Marketing in Toronto. Glance is a full-service agency that gives businesses access to a wide range of marketing strategies, services and skillsets that help them achieve their goals.  This episode was a walk down memory lane for me.  Julie is the person I reached out to when I was trying to build the new Aria Benefits brand.  Listen in as Julie walks us through her unique approach with clients (me), and how that translated not only into an incredible brand story to tell, but also a wonderful friendship.  I really enjoyed this conversation with Julie.  I hope you do too! RB

Speaking about what sparked her career journey is Brittany Bairos, Managing Partner at Forge Recruitment. Owned and operated by both her and her partner Joncarlo Bairos, Forge is a specialized Canadian search firm, focused on connecting those within the Legal and Accounting & Finance sectors. Their aim is to provide clients not only with strong, relevant talent, but also the market information and recruitment guidance they need to make a successful hire and build a strong, competitive team.

Recruiting and hiring the right person can be an incredibly challenging and time-consuming process for employers and Brittany describes how she and her team strive to give businesses the competitive advantage that they need while ensuring a long and successful relationship for both clients and candidates.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

The journey through infertility can be overwhelming—both emotionally and financially. But what if there was a better way to navigate it?

In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, Robin and Al sit down with Jessica Chalk, Founder of MyStoria, to discuss her personal fertility journey and how it inspired her to create a comprehensive care platform for fertility patients. Jessica shares the challenges of self-advocacy, the gaps in fertility healthcare, and the growing demand for better support in employee benefits. She also opens up about her experiences as a founder in the male-dominated FemTech industry and the emotional toll of working in such a deeply personal space.

"I need to build my story." ~ Jessica Chalk

Key takeaways:

✨ The Fertility Journey Can Feel Isolating – Mental health and community support are crucial for patients.

✨ Advocacy & Awareness Matter – Patients must be empowered in their healthcare decisions, and fertility shouldn’t be seen as just a women’s issue.

✨ The Role of Employers – Integrating fertility benefits into workplace policies can remove barriers and support employee well-being.

✨ Breaking Barriers in FemTech – Female founders face funding challenges, but collaboration and education are key to driving change.

✨ Balancing Passion & Well-Being – Entrepreneurship in healthcare comes with emotional challenges—building the right team and support network is essential.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

After a decade of passionate commitment, guest Erin Maynes, Founder & CEO at foodiepages is working to help us foster connections that truly matter and to realize that making genuine connections is pivotal for growth and satisfaction.

Foodiepages is on a mission to redefine the way we connect with others through the meaningful art of gifting, in order to help us create a deeper sense of meaning and engagement in every gift we give and to act as a reminder to reach out to people in our lives. Their approach is grounded in thoughtfulness and intention, ensuring that each gift resonates with the recipient's values, company identity, or personal milestones.

Erin emphasizes the importance of authentic human connections and why we need to address how loneliness has evolved into a cultural epidemic through a combination of societal shifts, and technological advancements. Her company strives to make people feel seen, known and valued in a world where relationships are too often digital first.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Motivated by new opportunities and connecting with people every day, Hannah McLoughlin, Regional Director at GroupSource, has a passion for the group benefits market and sees herself in this industry indefinitely. GroupSource is one of Canada's leading providers in group insurance, employee benefits, and disability management, offering top of the line technology but with a personal, hands-on approach.

Hannah talks to Robin & Al about some of the biggest challenges facing employers as they navigate constant change and complexity, as well as the small things they can do to ensure their benefit offerings serve the evolving needs of employees while supporting the organization’s objectives.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

We are joined by guest John Mitropoulos, President of technology company Vocantas, providing interactive voice and communication solutions in order to help their clients improve scheduling. With expertise in product development, sales, marketing and customer service, John is a strategic, customer focused leader, who has been successful in increasing profitability through the development and delivery of new products and services that enhance an organization’s market position. 

Throughout his career he has always maintained focus on building success by developing individuals and teams who support one another and provide world class customer experience.

John shares some of the most important things facing Canadian businesses today and what helped shape him into the innovative leader he is today.

I'm sure you've heard all sorts of things about telemedicine and virtual healthcare, but where to begin??  Today's discussion is with Michael Dunne of leading virtual healthcare provider Dialogue.  During our chat, we discuss the evolution of virtual healthcare and how the landscape looks today.  Next, we look at the future of these platforms as well as possible integrations with other wellness providers.  Finally, we discuss why companies are beginning to implement these programs, and what to look for when choosing a Virtual Healthcare provider for your organization.  Michael hails from one of my favourite cities to visit, Dublin Ireland.  Like that of his countrymen, his charm and enthusiasm for life are contagious.  I hope you enjoy this one as much as I did. RB

In this episode, hosts Robin Bailey and Al McDonald interview lawyer Michael Smitiuch, founder of Smitiuch Injury Law who shares his journey into personal injury and wrongful death law. Driven by his passion for helping the little guy in the fight against injustice, Michael discusses the emotional impact of dealing with traumatic cases and the coping strategies he has developed. He also talks about the importance of personal outlets and hobbies, the impact of AI on the legal profession, and the challenges of running a law firm. Finally, Michael emphasizes the importance of HR support and the benefits of hybrid work models.

Key Takeaways

• Passion for aiding the underdog and combating injustice serves as a motivating factor in personal injury and wrongful death law.

• Dealing with traumatic cases requires coping strategies and personal outlets to maintain emotional well-being.

• AI can assist with research and improve efficiency in the legal profession, but it cannot replace the creativity and advocacy of a human lawyer.

• Running a law firm requires HR support, financial management, and a focus on cash flow.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group 

Robin & Al are joined by Registered Holistic Nutritionist (R.H.N.), Ciara Morin, who has a love of functional nutrition & a passion for helping clients make small changes that have the greatest impact to their health. She strives to inspire, teach & coach people to reach their health goals in a sustainable & enjoyable way, no matter the challenges may face.

Ciara is also the Founder of Foods to Glow, offering complete nutrition consulting and strategies to help reset your health. She strongly believes that bringing awareness to the power of food is the first step towards optimized, whole health in order to boost energy, improve immune response & increase JOY in our busy lives.

Returning to the podcast is award-winning sales leader and engaging storyteller Jason Putnam, Chief Revenue Officer at Plum, a talent assessment platform that strips away bias to reveal human potential. They have revolutionized how global enterprises hire, grow, and retain talent.

Jason oversees Plum’s strategy, driving revenue generation initiatives and expanding into new markets to meet customer demand.  He is passionate about delivering value to customers, partners, and stakeholders while creating a positive impact through innovation and collaboration. Jason is also a dynamic speaker and presenter, having received multiple awards for his achievements, including the Golden Bridge Globee 2021 Executive of The Year.

He discusses some of the biggest factors that lead to corporate success, how embracing AI has the power to make humans MORE human, and how the state of the workplace has completely shifted.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Today we welcome experienced SaaS-tech business leader Sam Daviau, Co-founder of UpBeing, a remote-first wellness start-up. Sam tells us the origin story & inspiration behind UpBeing's desktop-friendly web application that seeks to help you improve your mental well-being. By using the UpBeing App regularly, users can expect to gain a deeper understanding into the hidden patterns in their life that bring them up and down.

He shares his passion for building resilient communities, technology that changes the world for the better and improving access to mental health support.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Returning to the show as a dynamic duo are People & Culture Leaders Amanda Small and Joshua Siegal. Our conversation explores the importance of kindness in leadership while navigating difficult situations and delves into the challenges faced by people & culture leaders and the strategic role they play in shaping company culture. Amanda & Joshua also highlight the revenue-generating aspect of people & culture and the need to define what 'good' looks like. Additionally, they touch on the potential for disruptors in the people and culture space.

Key Takeaways

• Kindness is a crucial aspect of effective leadership and can lead to transformative change.

• People and culture leaders face challenges in balancing tactical execution with strategic initiatives.

• People and culture play a revenue-generating role by supporting the development and performance of employees.

• Defining what 'good' looks like in terms of company culture and engagement is essential for long-term success.

• The people and culture space can benefit from disruptors who bring diverse backgrounds and perspectives.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group 

There is a concerning shortage of care workers across the United States and Canada, the impact of which is felt every day by care providers, care workers, and those in need of care. So there is one question that guides Christian Alaimo, Co-founder & COO at Caribou ...“How can we help care organizations find quality care workers and keep the good ones they have?”

Caribou, a game-changing digital platform, is on a mission to solve this caregiver staffing crisis. It is a super easy-to-implement tool and rewards program that care organizations across the United States and Canada are using to supercharge their recruitment, retention, and recognition. In the care sector, there is no time for complicated technology that is difficult to implement and employers who offer the best caregiver experience will win the talent war every single time. Caribou was designed specifically for care organizations who are looking to provide a positive impact on client service quality and staff members’ sense of value, purpose, and passion for their work.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Building a successful startup takes more than just a great idea—it requires resilience, the right team, and a strong network of mentors and supporters. In this episode, Robin and Al sit down with Neil Grunberg, a seasoned entrepreneur and venture capitalist, to explore the highs and lows of startup growth and investment. Neil shares insights from his journey, from taking bold career risks to shaping team culture and leadership. He also discusses his passion for mentorship, the importance of giving back, and how supporting young athletes aligns with his philosophy of building strong communities. Tune in for a dynamic conversation on leadership, learning from setbacks, and the power of connections in the entrepreneurial world.

"I love meeting founders." ~ Neil Grunberg

Takeaways:

✨ How early experiences shape an entrepreneurial mindset

✨ The importance of team culture and leadership in scaling a business

✨ Why mentorship, resilience, and strong connections drive success

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Joining us today is Jafar Owainati, an entrepreneur who is driven by a thirst for learning and growth.  He is the Co-Founder & CEO of Barley, a compensation management software designed to help businesses structure, analyze, and manage compensation across teams. The platform allows managers to visualize pay structures, monitor pay equity analysis, and ensure adherence to location-based pay policies.

Jafar describes how his role has evolved from the early days of startup to scaling successful tech companies as well as his multifaceted responsibilities as CEO, spanning from product development and sales to financial matters and strategic decisions. He also explains the importance of separating your identity as a founder from your role and job, in order to better acknowledge personal growth and the desire to face new challenges.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this episode, we interview visionary executive Rob Barlow, CEO at 6Harmonics, a manufacturer of edge computer and mobile routing platforms for the mining industry. Rob specializes in transforming businesses and bridging the digital divide, enabling digital transformation. He shares his career journey and the challenges of raising funds in the current market, emphasizing the importance of people-first leadership and building a strong team. Rob also discusses the potential of AI and technology in modernizing the mining industry and improving safety, highlighting the need for balance between financial returns and the why behind companies.

Takeaways

• Building a strong team and prioritizing people-first leadership are crucial for business success.

• The current market is challenging for entrepreneurs and companies seeking funding, with a lack of available capital.

• The mining industry is undergoing modernization, and technology, such as AI, can play a significant role in improving safety and efficiency.

• Finding time for personal hobbies and self-care is essential for managing stress and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Today we're joined by Rob McConnell, President and CEO of Gibson's Cleaners and his daughter Linley McConnell, Director of Client Experience at Gibson's Cleaners. Gibson's Cleaners boasts a rich heritage, originating as a textile dye house back in 1929 before transitioning into a dynamic enterprise offering dry cleaning services and uniform rentals. Together they discuss the history of Gibson's Cleaners, the trends in dressing for work, and the challenges and benefits of working as a family. They also share their leadership styles and approaches to running the business.

Key Takeaways

• The pandemic has had a significant impact on the dry cleaning industry, however, Gibson's Cleaners has seen growth by adapting to new opportunities.
• The trend in dressing for work has become more casual, but there is a potential swing back to dressing up as people return to the office.
• Working as a father-daughter team has its challenges, but it also brings a unique dynamic and opportunity for mentorship and growth.
• Effective communication is crucial in both personal and professional relationships.
• Team sports teach valuable life lessons such as teamwork, resilience, and understanding roles.
• Dress for Success is an organization that empowers women into economic independence through career advancement programs.
• Embrace opportunities for growth in the future, both personally and professionally.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group 

In this episode, Robin and Al interview entrepreneur Charlie Kerrigan, the founder of VIL Landscaping. Charlie recounts his journey from mowing lawns at 10 years of age to stepping off the conventional path and becoming the founder of a profitable landscaping business at just 14. He has since expanded it into a thriving enterprise with a team of 30 employees, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with the right people, constantly learning, and setting high standards. Charlie's motivation comes from helping others, growing his team, and changing the perception of contractors in the industry. The conversation also touches on the significance of doing hard things together to build a strong team culture.

Key Takeaways

• Surround yourself with the right people who can help you grow and learn.
• Constantly strive to set high standards and exceed them.
• Building a strong team culture involves doing hard things together.
• Success is defined by the impact you have on others and the good you can do for them.

What motivates me is... "helping others and being able to give others the lessons without the scars." ~ Charlie Kerrigan

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group 

In Episode 9 we speak with James Guest of Sun Life.  During the show, we explore a very hot topic being Medical Cannabis and how Sun Life became the first major carrier in Canada to provide coverage through an employee benefits program. Sun Life will be releasing a Bright Paper on this topic shortly so we've included links below.  We also chat about how artificial intelligence (AI) is helping Canadian employees lead healthier lives with the help of a digital benefits coach named Ella.  Finally, we hear about a new program that Sun Life is offering called the Rotational Leadership Development Program.  James is a clear example of how well the program is working to develop future leaders in our industry.  (links below).  I had fun recording this one with James.  I hope you enjoy it.

https://www.sunlife.ca/ca/Careers/Student+and+new+graduate+programs/Rotational+Leadership+Development+Program?vgnLocale=en_CA

http://www.sunlife.ca/Canada/sponsor/Group+benefits/Group+benefits+products+&+services/The+Conversation/Bright+Papers?vgnLocale=en_CA

On a mission to change the way the world works, Joe O'Connor, CEO & co-founder of Work Time Reduction, joins Robin and Al in a discussion surrounding the concept of reduced employee work time and its potential benefits for individuals and organizations. Work Time Reduction is a consulting and research organization that specializes in reduced-hour, outcomes-focused work models. Joe shares his journey and how he became interested in this topic. He also talks about the challenges and misconceptions surrounding the four-day workweek and how it can be implemented in different organizations. The conversation touches on the role of technology, such as AI, in driving efficiency and productivity. Overall, the episode explores the future of work and the importance of finding a balance between work and personal life.

"If we can find these opportunities to improve productivity and efficiency, we're going to share that benefit with you in a very, very powerful currency, which is giving people time back to do the things that they love, to spend time with the people that they love." ~ Joe O'Connor

Key Takeaways

• Reducing work time can lead to increased productivity and employee engagement.
• The four-day workweek is not a one-size-fits-all approach and can be implemented in various ways, such as half-day Fridays or nine-day fortnights.
• Successful implementation of a shorter workweek requires proper planning, a culture of trust, and addressing client expectations.
• AI and technology can drive efficiency and incentivize employees to adopt new tools and technologies.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group 

In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, hosts Robin and Al sit down with Manu Varma, Head of People and Culture at SWTCH Energy, for an inspiring conversation about leveraging business as a force for good. Manu delves into his personal journey, sharing how his upbringing and values shaped his leadership approach. The discussion explores the profound impact of community engagement, the critical role businesses play in supporting newcomers, and the tangible benefits of aligning business practices with ethics, values, and sustainable development goals. Discover how Manu’s initiatives create meaningful change while driving success for his organization.

Key takeaways:

1. Purpose and Impact: The meaning of life is to discover your gift and share it, a principle businesses can apply by supporting community initiatives and empowering others.
2. Community-Centered Strategies: Businesses should align with Sustainable Development Goals, engage all employees in community building, and prioritize ethics and values in decision-making.
3. Empowering Change: Training programs for marginalized groups and collaborations with other businesses amplify community impact and foster inclusivity.
4. Inspiring Leadership: Personal involvement in community efforts can inspire others and lead to meaningful connections and unexpected business benefits.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Recognized as one of the top international experts in PDF accessibility technologies, Adam Spencer, President & CEO at Abledocs, is passionate about changing the digital landscape to make it more accessible and inclusive to everyone through investment and development of new and exciting approaches to document accessibility. Their propriety products and industry expertise helps organizations of all sizes build and implement sustainable strategies to ensure their clients can engage with content in a barrier-free way.

As a serial entrepreneur, Adam reveals how to spot the tipping point of a company’s success to make the most of its enormous potential as well as some advice on what to do if you're losing your way on the quest to succeed.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this episode of the Success Leaves Clues podcast, hosts Robin and Al sit down with Melanie Scheepers, SVP of People and Culture at Coconut Software, to explore the dynamic world of HR and leadership. Melanie takes us through her inspiring career journey from psychology to HR, shedding light on the evolving role of HR in driving a people-centric workplace culture.

The conversation dives deep into key topics like the power of mentorship, the importance of aligning company values with actions, and how strong leadership sets the foundation for a thriving organizational culture. Melanie shares valuable insights on dispelling misconceptions about HR, building trust through leadership partnerships, and adapting HR practices in the tech industry amidst the rise of AI.

Passionate about empowering women in the workplace, Melanie also discusses her commitment to supporting working mothers and creating an environment where they can thrive both personally and professionally.

"Values must be lived, not just stated." ~ Melanie Scheepers

Key Takeaways:

1. Mentorship Matters: Mentorship is a key driver of career development.

2. Culture Starts at the Top: Senior leadership plays a critical role in shaping and driving organizational culture.

3. Walking the Talk: Actions must align with stated values to build trust and strengthen culture.

4. HR as a Partner: HR’s role has evolved into a strategic, human-centric partnership that supports both people and business goals.

5. Shared Responsibility for Culture: Building and sustaining a strong workplace culture is a collective effort across the organization.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this episode, Robin and Al interview Jordan Boesch, the CEO of 7Shifts, a scheduling and team management company for the restaurant industry. Jordan shares the genesis of 7Shifts and how his experience working for his dad's Quiznos restaurants inspired him to create a solution for managing staff schedules. He discusses the challenges and benefits of focusing on the restaurant industry and the importance of building a strong company culture with behaviour-based values. Jordan also shares his vision for the future of 7Shifts and the impact he hopes to have on the industry and the community.

Key Takeaways:

• Building a company based on solving a problem you are passionate about can lead to long-term success and fulfillment.

• Focusing on a specific industry, like the restaurant industry, can help create a niche and differentiate your company.

• Behavior-based values can be more effective than generic core values, as they provide clear guidelines for desired behaviours.

• Reinforcing values through stories and recognizing employees who demonstrate those values can help create a strong company culture.

• Long-term success requires making investments and decisions that align with your vision and staying committed to your goals.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group 

We welcome Lee-Anne Reuber, sought-after speaker, workplace wellness expert as well as Founder and CEO of Sekond Skin Society, a health and fitness app designed to be accessible for everyone and inclusive of all. Starting her business in 2018 as a brick-and-mortar studio, to now developing and expanding as a tech startup, Lee-Anne has been on a roller coaster ride over the last few years.

Pivoting several times to find where she belongs as an entrepreneur, Lee-Anne loves to share about the moment everything came together for her... the moment throwing spaghetti at the wall really stuck! Because of her story and the challenges she has overcome, Lee-Anne is seen as a trailblazer, a thought leader, a mentor for other entrepreneurs and the impact-driven CEO of a health and fitness business that is about to take the world by storm.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Sailor, Employee Benefits Specialist, Association Founder, Educator, Expert Witness, Associate Film Producer & Bestselling Author, Dave Patriarche is a man of many talents with a passion for learning. He is the President of Mainstay Insurance and founder of CGIB, the Canadian Group Insurance Brokers, an organization dedicated to supporting networking and continuing education for the group insurance industry.

Robin & Al talk to Dave about his tireless efforts to improve the industry for advisors and clients alike, including the protection of women returning from maternity leave, as well as the biggest challenges advisors face in trying to provide solutions to their clients. 

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Today, we welcome Success Architect Michael Stark, Co-Founder of Ungrind, a business consulting service that gives business owners the freedom to live their ideal lives.

With over a decade of experience advising business owners on growth and strategy, Michael is a trusted expert in the field. Through his extensive management and strategy consulting work, he has helped numerous businesses navigate the complexities of scaling and growth. In this episode, Michael will share his insights and expertise on how to prepare for eventual business exit, align personal aspirations with post-business reality, and design a comprehensive and executable roadmap towards a fulfilling life. Join us as we discuss Michael's unique approach to empowering entrepreneurs to break free from the relentless cycle of business ownership. We'll delve into his personal journey, the core problem he's solving for his clients, his challenges with his new firm, and the path forward.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Dynamic leader, innovative problem solver, and charismatic public speaker Jeff McLeod has pursued some exciting entrepreneurial endeavours over the last few years but his proudest achievement is his business, JDavis Painting.  Jeff launched this company with the goal of delivering incredible customer experiences while proving that hiring a trade shouldn’t be a nightmare…it should be a fun and exciting endeavour.

Jeff got his start in the painting industry while attending university, and also developed a commitment to use business for positive social impact. This evolved from creating student jobs to developing charity events for his community. He fully believes that communication is the key to any great relationship.

If you’re keen to understand how a business leader like Jeff thinks about starting a business, embracing the driving force of core values, and doing things differently, tune into this episode!

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

How do you create "magic" in your corporate culture, and how do you actually get employees excited and talking about their benefit plans?  Tune in to hear how today's guest did just that, and in a fairly short amount of time to boot!   James Malliaros is the Managing Director for myWorld Canada.  A self proclaimed "citizen of the world", it is quickly evident that James' global career has prepared him well to implement best practices that he has encountered on his journey.  In a world where companies are fighting for talent, it's easy to see why employees at myWorld have embraced their new program.  I enjoyed this conversation immensely.  I hope you enjoy it. RB

In this episode, Robin Bailey welcomes guest host Joshua Siegal for an interview with Hyla Pollak, an HR/People expert with 25 years of experience whose mission is to foster positive, inclusive, and high-performance work environments that support growth and innovation. Hyla shares her career journey, starting in HR in the 90s and eventually becoming a director of sales for a startup. She discusses the importance of bringing HR into a company early on and the role of HR as a strategic partner. Hyla also talks about the lessons she learned from playing team sports, such as the value of teamwork, accountability, and resilience. She emphasizes the need for diversity, equity, and inclusion in organizations, but cautions against deconstructing the concept and instead focusing on creating a sense of belonging for all employees.

Key Takeaways

• Bringing HR into a company early on is important for building a solid foundation and ensuring the success of the organization.
• Playing team sports teaches valuable lessons in failure, accountability, and resilience.
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion are crucial for the success of a company, but it's important to focus on creating a sense of belonging for all employees.
• Failure is necessary for growth and success, and it's important to teach children and young professionals how to fail and learn from their mistakes.

"Success isn't the end game, it's part of the journey." ~ Hyla Pollak

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Joining us today to speak about her career journey in Advanced Analytics and Marketing Research is Hilary Borndahl who is the Founder and CEO of Miix Analytics, a marketing consulting boutique based in the greater Toronto area. Miix consultants support in-house Marketing Mix Modeling (MMM) programs, coaching clients on the planning, analysis, reporting, optimization, and socialization of research.

Hilary is also a passionate leader on a mission to empower women to live to their full potential and is actively involved in International Women's Day.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this episode, Robin and Al chat with Michelle Brooks, Chief People and Culture Officer at Security Compass, an industry-leading information security firm. They discuss topics such as change management, creating great employee experiences, and the importance of transparency in organizations. Michelle shares her career journey and emphasizes the value of being open to career detours. She also talks about her passion for helping the next generation of HR leaders and supporting CEOs in building effective people operations. The episode concludes with Michelle sharing her vision of success and the impact she hopes to have through her work.

"There's nothing greater for a leader to realize that their team can survive without them." ~ Michelle Brooks

Key Takeaways

• Change management is crucial for organizations to adapt and be successful, and it starts with transparent communication and involving employees in the process
• Valuing and supporting employees creates great employee experiences and is essential for building a successful company
• Being open to career detours can lead to unexpected opportunities and personal growth
• HR leaders play a vital role in supporting and mentoring the next generation of HR professionals
• Transparency and collaboration are key in building effective people operations and supporting CEOs in leadership roles

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group 

Robin & Al enjoy a conversation with Lauren Mina, Associate Director of Finance & Operations at Blueprint, a non-profit, mission driven research organization dedicated to improving the social and economic well-being of Canadians by helping their clients solve complex public policy challenges.

Lauren works with a diverse team of professionals, with backgrounds that span the non-profit, public and private sectors, who are passionate about serving a wide range of socially conscious businesses that want to make a difference.

She discusses the challenges of corporate growth while creating safe spaces for a diverse team of employees as well as the importance of great leadership & mentorship.

In this episode of the Success Leaves Clues podcast, hosts Robin and Al engage in a fascinating conversation with Subhi Alsayed, the visionary Founder and CEO of Kulture Rebellion—a company that merges science and craft to reinvent social drinks. Subhi shares his transformative journey from a corporate career in engineering and construction to creating a gut-friendly beverage, Brücha©, that leverages fermentation technology and redefines an industry. He discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of personal health, and how AI is integrated into their production processes.

"I was tired of being told that things can't be done differently." ~ Subhi Alsayed

Takeaways:

1. Path to Sustainability: Subhi’s journey from engineering and construction sparked his commitment to sustainability, leading to the founding of Kulture Rebellion.
2. Innovation in Healthier Alternatives: Kulture Rebellion uses fermentation technology to create healthier social drinks, emphasizing community and connection through food and drinks.
3. Entrepreneurial Resilience: Subhi highlights the challenges of entrepreneurship, where self-doubt and resilience play key roles, alongside trusting one’s instincts.
4. Personal Definition of Success: For Subhi, success is deeply personal, defined by fulfillment and family time.
5. Empowering Change: Subhi believes in the power of change at any stage in life and aims to make fermentation accessible for all.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Dipesh Mistry is a builder, operator, executive, and advisor. His sweet spot is shaping strategy & culture for companies that are trying to find product market fit and those that are scaling, specifically in climate. Currently, Dipesh is building toward a world with healthier food, more resilient farms, and a happier planet, through regenerative agriculture at Vayda as its Chief Operating Officer.

Vayda is a farming company working to advance Regenerative Agriculture through farm-based services and market-building. They develop regenerative practices for resiliency, efficiency, profitability, and productivity in our farming and food systems in order to improve both farmer livelihoods and the surrounding economy.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this episode, host Robin Bailey and guest host Joshua Siegal interview talent strategist Drew Lindsay, co-founder of GuruLink—a candidate recruitment and career services provider with a reputation as the go-to resource for scaling technical teams in Canada.

Drew shares insights on the impact of talent in startups, the challenges of management, and the need for constant growth and learning. He also emphasizes the value of relationships and connections in his career. The conversation highlights the passion and dedication required to succeed in the startup world and the importance of balance in life and work, emphasizing the need to disconnect and re-energize. Drew discusses his intentional focus on lifestyle design and making time for family and personal priorities and highlights the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for his employees, where they can be open and authentic. He also talks about the future of talent acquisition, including the use of AI and agentic technologies.

"I didn't care about optics, I cared about results, and I cared about accountability." ~ Drew Lindsay

Keywords Takeaways

• Talent can have a massive impact on the success of a startup, making it crucial to focus on finding the right people.
• Management in entrepreneurship comes with its own set of challenges, including interpersonal dynamics and the need for constant growth and learning.
• Building relationships and making connections is essential in the startup world, as it can lead to valuable opportunities and collaborations.
• Balance is a macro concept that should be approached with a long-term perspective.
• Creating a safe and supportive environment for employees fosters authenticity and engagement.
• Canada has the opportunity to become a global leader in AI and drive better business outcomes.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group 

Jesse Abrams, Co-Founder & CEO at Homewise, is an accomplished entrepreneur, business leader, digital marketer and advertiser who has a passion for growing businesses and never settling for the status quo. He was recently distinguished as “The W. Galen Weston Top Entrepreneur”, as one of Canada's top 5 "Marketers on the Rise" and as a "Top 30 Under 30" Marketer in Canada.

Jesse brings a passion for change and growth as the founder of Homewise, where he and his team look to change the face of the mortgage industry. He talks to Al & Robin about his amazing career journey and describes how he has faced and overcome obstacles along the way.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

HR is evolving, and so are the ways businesses approach workplace culture, communication, and employee engagement. On this episode of the Success Leaves Clues podcast, hosts Robin and Al sit down with Aamna Coskun, founder and CEO of Pocket HR, to discuss the changing landscape of human resources—especially for startups. Aamna shares her journey of launching Pocket HR and the role of fractional HR in driving organizational success.

The conversation dives into key HR challenges, from bridging the gap between employees and leadership to ensuring diversity efforts are more than just a checkbox. Aamna also explores the role of AI in HR, its potential to revolutionize workplace dynamics, and the importance of managing change effectively. With insights on generational shifts and the power of designing one’s career path, this episode is a must-listen for leaders looking to build thriving, forward-thinking workplaces.

"I don't want to be a checkbox." ~ Aamna Coskun

Takeaways:

✨ The Future of HR – Pocket HR is redefining traditional HR through technology and engagement.

✨ Culture & Leadership – Fractional HR helps shape strong workplace culture, especially for startups.

✨ AI & Change Management – AI is transforming HR, but successful adoption requires the right approach.

✨ Beyond the Checkbox – Diversity efforts must be genuine and impactful to drive real change.

✨ Career Empowerment – Employees thrive when they have flexibility and a strong support network.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this episode of the Success Leaves Clues podcast, hosts Robin and Al engage with Rob Drynan, a Certified Implementer at EOS Worldwide. They explore the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), a management framework designed to help businesses run more efficiently. Rob discusses the ideal stage for implementing EOS, common challenges faced by clients, and the importance of structure and accountability in organizations. He shares success stories of businesses transformed through EOS and emphasizes the need for founders to let go and empower their teams. The conversation also touches on the long-term value of EOS and the emerging trend of employee ownership in Canada.

"They might be amazing people. They might be fantastic people, but if they can't deliver, they're holding the business back." ~ Rob Drynan

Takeaways:

• EOS is a management framework that helps entrepreneurial businesses overcome frustration and lack of structure.
• A clear vision and accountability are key to driving organizational success with EOS.
• Founders need to learn how to let go and empower their teams for greater effectiveness.
• Implementing EOS boosts collaboration, efficiency, and overall business value.
• Employee ownership and empowerment are emerging trends that can benefit future generations.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this episode, Robin and Al interview Dr. William Cherniak, an emergency physician and the founder and CEO of Rocket Doctor Inc, a virtual health platform that allows you to book an online doctor appointment in Canada. They discuss the importance of virtual care and its potential to improve access to healthcare. Bill shares his experiences working in underserved communities in Africa and how it inspired him to create Bridge to Health, a nonprofit organization. He also talks about the challenges and opportunities of running a healthcare company and the need for privacy and data security. The conversation highlights the potential of virtual care to transform the healthcare system and improve patient outcomes.

"Approximately 50-60%, if not more, of healthcare in an outpatient setting can be done virtually." ~ Dr. William Cherniak

Key Takeaways

• Virtual care can potentially improve access to healthcare and provide more efficient and convenient care for patients.
• Bridge to Health is a nonprofit organization focused on building comprehensive care for rural communities.
• Running a healthcare company comes with unique challenges, such as ensuring privacy and data security, and prioritizing high-quality clinical care over profit.
• Virtual care can address a significant portion of outpatient primary care needs, reducing the burden on emergency departments and improving patient outcomes.
• Digital health and virtual care have the potential to revolutionize the way healthcare is delivered and improve access to care for millions of people worldwide.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group 

We really enjoyed talking with Roy Wainer, Founder & CEO at Townish, a platform for planning and organizing team meetings and events in unique and curated spaces. Roy discusses the origins of Townish and the growing trend of remote work. He explains how Townish aims to provide a one-stop shop for organizing off-site and team events, focusing on fun, team building, and work. Roy also shares the successes and challenges of building the platform and expanding to different geographies, choosing the right customers and the challenges of scaling a product across different markets. He envisions a future where Townish becomes a global platform for team collaboration and engagement.

Key Takeaways

• The trend of remote work and distributed teams has created a need for platforms like Townish.
• Choose customers carefully as they can significantly impact the direction and success of a business.
• The nature of work is changing, and individuals need to be prepared for constant development and potential job displacement.
• Startups thrive in chaos and require flexibility and adaptability to navigate the challenges of building a new business.
• Failure is a natural part of the entrepreneurial journey and should be embraced as a stepping stone to success.
• Building a successful business takes time and perseverance, and success often comes after years of hard work.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group 

Sari Abdo, Cofounder and CEO of hungerhub, joins the podcast to talk about his passion for bringing technology and products to make the future better for both employers and their employees. Hungerhub, Canada's corporate on-demand catering solution, provides technology to connect workplaces to local restaurants as well as the logistics to deliver daily meals right to their client’s offices.

Sari's interest in working in foodtech has created an intense focus on sustainability, the future of work and the workplace of the future and through Hungerhub, he and his team have created Canada’s first Virtual Food Court. Always looking to generate new ideas that will solve a problem, Sari remains committed to using thoughtful innovation & technology to discover solutions & possibilities for tomorrow.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group.

Guest Peter Barbour sold his first start-up in 2011 and co-founded his current company Cyno in 2017. Cyno's virtual platform provides access to a wide range of employee health and performance services, removing barriers to care and making it easy for employees to connect with providers they love, find the support they need and choose the times that work with their busy schedules.

Peter explains the importance of providing meaningful support to every employee and shares the key aspects of determining success in rolling out an employee wellness plan allowing HR teams to keep employees healthy, happy and engaged.

Peter explains the importance of providing meaningful support to every employee and shares the key aspects of determining success in rolling out an employee wellness plan allowing HR teams to keep employees healthy, happy and engaged.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Hayden Cole, Account Executive at Dialogue, loves to engage with Candian HR leaders about virtual care and how it raises the bar in promoting employees' mental and physical health. Dialogue is a telemedicine pioneer partnering with leading organizations to enable healthy and happy workplaces. Their mission is to improve well-being by using technology to deliver excellent care.

Through Dialogue’s healthcare app, clients connect to primary care, mental wellness, and EAPs within one integrated services platform. Employees can access support during work hours and life outside the office, all through their phones, allowing them to be present and productive. Hayden tells our listeners about his career journey and what sparked his interest in virtual healthcare.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

As Head of the Group Life & Health business at RBC Insurance, Julie leads a team with overall responsibility for the product development and strategic direction for RBC Insurance's Group Benefit Solutions.  With a focus on innovation and thought-leadership, her team is committed to differentiating RBC through product and service enhancements that make it easier for clients to lead a healthy lifestyle, manage their benefit programs, and return to health if faced with a serious medical condition.  This is an episode you won't want to miss.  From learning about Julie's unique journey in wellness and healthcare, to current innovations in employee benefits, to where she feels the industry as a whole is headed in the near future.  I had such a great time chatting with Julie.  I hope you enjoy it. RB

Cory Chadwick is the Founder and CEO of The Mental Gym, a digital platform offering trainer-led group classes that help organizations and their people become their best selves. 

The conversation begins as Cory shares his journey and the importance of proactive mental health. His passion for mental fitness and training stems from his own experiences with mental health crises in his family. He emphasizes the need to address the stigma surrounding mental health and highlights the impact it has on families. Cory also discusses the importance of prioritizing mental health in the workplace and the benefits it brings to both individuals and organizations, as well as how the mental gym program works and its impact on personal and professional growth.

Key Takeaways

• Proactive mental health is essential for personal growth and overall well-being.
• The stigma surrounding mental health needs to be addressed to create a supportive environment.
• Prioritizing mental health in the workplace improves employee engagement, productivity, and retention.
• Leaders should recognize the business benefits of investing in mental health and create a culture that supports mental well-being.
• The sports community has successfully created a culture of mental fitness and serves as an example for other industries.
• The mental gym program focuses on building essential mental tools and habits through meaningful conversations and integration into real life.
• Measuring mental fitness requires a balance of qualitative and quantitative data, with a focus on how individuals feel and the positive changes they experience.
• The goal is to normalize mental health and make mental gym workouts as frequent as physical workouts.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group 

In this episode, we welcome Tessa Goudy, a Sales Development Professional at Dialogue, an integrated health platform designed to improve the overall health and wellness of your organization. Tessa understands the importance of building teams that deliver an exceptional client experience. She discusses her background in the group benefits insurance space and her journey to joining Dialogue. Tessa shares the challenges of the Canadian group benefits healthcare industry, including the confusion and low utilization rates of virtual care services. She highlights Dialogue's proactive approach to healthcare and its focus on member experience. Tessa expresses her excitement for the future of Dialogue and her personal goal of making a positive impact in the industry.

"I truly cannot wait until every single Canadian has access to Dialogue." ~ Tessa Goudy

Key Takeaways

• The Canadian group benefits healthcare industry faces challenges such as confusion and low utilization rates of virtual care services
• Dialogue takes a proactive approach to healthcare and focuses on the member experience

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

We kick off our fifth season of Success Leaves Clues with an inspiring conversation as hosts Robin Bailey and Al McDonald welcome Jocelyne Beaulieu, Head of People and Operations at Koru, who describes herself as "a curious senior leader who is enthusiastic about all things People, Culture, & DEI."

Jocelyne shares her unique career journey, diving into the power of curiosity and the role of personal connections in shaping a thriving workplace. From navigating HR challenges to building a positive culture, she offers actionable insights for leaders. The discussion touches on the importance of mentorship, reflections on success, and how kindness leaves a lasting legacy in both professional and personal lives. It’s a conversation packed with wisdom to start the season strong!

"Curiosity was just the very clear number one value." ~ Jocelyne Beaulieu

Key Takeaways:

1. Curiosity and Connections: Curiosity and building meaningful connections are essential drivers of personal and professional growth.
2. Empathy and Kindness in Leadership: Empathy, kindness, and creating safe spaces are vital for navigating HR challenges and fostering a positive workplace culture.
3. Living Company Values: Actively practicing company values and listening to employee feedback are crucial for shaping an authentic and thriving culture.
4. Mentorship and Legacy: Mentorship and leading by example create a lasting legacy, defined by the impact one has on others.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

On this episode of the Success Leaves Clues podcast, hosts Robin and Al reconnect with Subhi Alsayed, Founder/CEO of Kulture Rebellion, to talk about his courageous pivot—from launching a gut health beverage brand to licensing his cutting-edge fermentation technology to other producers.

Subhi shares hard-won lessons on market fit, focusing on core strengths, and embracing AI to simplify complex processes in the beverage industry. The conversation dives into consumer trends, the rise of health-forward drinks, and the mindset needed to evolve with your business.

💬 "Focus on one area and make sure it's actually needed." ~ Subhi Alsayed

Key Takeaways:

✨ Subhi transitioned from brand-building to licensing tech to simplify scale

✨ Market fit and customer insight are everything

✨ AI is transforming the fermentation process

✨ Gut health beverages are no longer niche—they’re the future

✨ Adaptability and surrounding yourself with smart people are key to growth

🎧 Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Passionate about harnessing technology to solve business challenges, guest Erik Simins has been an entrepreneur since his early 20s, founding his first 8-figure company, MAGNUS Healthcare Recruitment Solutions in 2011. Magnus is now one of the most widely recognized healthcare staffing firms in Canada and provides medical workforce solutions to more than 250 Healthcare customers across the country.

In 2017, he co-founded Workwolf a leading innovator in HR technology that helps global brands improve their hiring procedures. The platform filters and verifies job applicants 200 times faster than a human can, automating the recruitment process, and bringing unmatched efficiencies to the employment market. The company was honoured with two Global Innovation Awards in 2020 and 2021, recognizing their groundbreaking impact on the employment market.

In his conversation with hosts Robin & Al, Erik emphasizes the importance of integrating technology into HR procedures and talks about the challenges facing recruiters and HR teams today.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Leading with empathy and compassion has defined Kristiana Hurley as a Human Resources professional for over a decade. Her journey spans working in customer service, building educational programs, and helping organizations foster safety, inclusiveness and well-being so all employees have the potential for real growth.

Kristiana’s approach to working with teams and her natural ability to constantly be curious about processes that impact real people never go unnoticed. She thrives on driving transformation that compliments an organization's mission and values, while always ensuring employees feel seen and heard. Her education, real-life experiences and mindfulness perspective guide her holistic approach and connection with her clients, employees and C-suite executives.

Currently in charge of People & Operations at The Kyla Fox Centre, she enjoys the challenge of developing the infrastructure and processes while collaborating with a team of practitioners who are dedicated to providing care to those in need. 

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

For this conversation, hosts Robin and Al welcome Caitlin MacGregor, CEO and co-founder of Plum.

Caitlin shares her journey of creating Plum, a talent management platform that helps businesses make smarter workforce decisions while helping people build careers that match their unique strengths. Plum democratizes access to predictive data for hiring and employee development. The conversation explores the impact of generative AI on hiring practices, the importance of inclusivity in recruitment, and the future of assessments in talent management. Caitlin emphasizes the need to recognize potential beyond traditional resumes and highlights the success stories of individuals who have thrived in unexpected roles.

Takeaways:

1. Revolutionizing Hiring Practices: Generative AI, behavioural data, and predictive analytics are transforming hiring by improving accuracy and reducing bias.
2. Inclusivity & Employee Empowerment: Inclusive hiring practices enhance retention while empowering employees to take charge of their careers and foster long-term success.
3. Human-Centric Workplaces: The future of work calls for a focus on recognizing potential and adopting human-centred approaches to redefine success.
4. Innovative Talent Solutions: Plum is leading the way with a vision for the next generation of work.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

What have you always wanted to know about Group Retirement Plans but have been too afraid to ask?  Well, let me introduce you to your new best friend, Alex Bertola.  He has been Account Executive at Manulife for the last 13 years.  Alex has had exposure to both U.S. as well as Canadian programs.   As such, his experience has made him a great resource to both advisors as well as their clients.  Be sure to tune in to find out what types of plans exist today, as well as the pro's and cons of each.   We also chat about the "right time" to implement a plan and what's in it for both employers and employees.  Finally, you'll hear us joking around about putting Alex in a boardroom with a whiteboard, trust me, you want to see the magic in person.  He's certainly one of the reasons I enjoy this industry so much....you meet some great people along the way.  I hope you enjoy it! RB

Join us for a conversation with Penny Farinha, VP of Human Resources at Ecobee, a company founded with the goal of offering people smart home solutions that enable planet-positive actions. Penny shares her upbringing on a dairy farm and how it shaped her work ethic and determination. She discusses the importance of surrounding yourself with people you can learn from and the impact of the products at Ecobee on the environment. Penny emphasizes the need to be nimble and adaptable in a high-growth environment and the value of giving people opportunities to learn and grow. The episode concludes with a discussion on the legacy of Ecobee and the impact it has had on energy consumption.

"The environmental impact that Ecobee has had is the legacy that makes me feel so proud." ~ Penny Farinha

Key Takeaways

• Growing up on a dairy farm instills a strong work ethic and determination.
• Surrounding yourself with people you can learn from is crucial for personal and professional growth.
• Being nimble and adaptable is essential in a high-growth environment.
• Giving people opportunities to learn and grow fosters their confidence and success.
• Ecobee's products have had a significant positive impact on energy consumption and the environment.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group 

Joining us in this episode, exploring the nexus of health, leadership, and career excellence, is Mike Kessel, the President & CEO of Cleveland Clinic Canada, a pivotal figure within one of the world's largest and most respected healthcare organizations. Mike has been at the forefront of the Cleveland Clinic Canada team for nearly 15 years, working tirelessly to help individuals and companies across the nation lead healthier and more active lives. Today, we have the privilege of delving into his wealth of experience and the wisdom he's gained throughout his impressive career.

We review the intersection of healthcare and the corporate world, uncovering the profound impact that a focus on well-being can have on both individuals and organizations and Mike shares some insights into how he prioritizes and takes care of his own well-being in this demanding role. We also tap into Mike's expertise for some career advice asking what pearls of wisdom he most often shares with others seeking success and fulfillment in their professional journeys.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Katie Denis is Director of Human Resources at Bennington Financial Services Corp in Oakville, Ontario.  In this episode, we dig into the role HR Professionals play in business and how that position has changed over the years.  Listen in as Katie shares how she grew her own position from the ground up and challenges she faced along the way.  This podcast has been a long time coming, and I definitely was not disappointed by some of the gems that Katie shared during our conversation.  This episode was a fun one to record.  I hope you enjoy it.  RB

In episode 1 of The Benefits Corner we sit down with Rich Appiah, principal of Appiah Law | Employment + Labour Counsel. He provides expert strategic counsel and legal representation in the area of human resources law to small and enterprise scale businesses, as well as to managers and senior executives.  Rich freely shares his thoughts on employment law, the legal implications of employee benefits administration, and the most important lessons he's learned in pursuing professional and personal success.  If you're a running a business, this podcast is for you.

A steadfast volunteer and dedicated advocate for public safety and community well-being, Ron Chhinzer, VP of External Affairs at Paybilt, shares his journey from policing to politics and the pivotal moments that shaped his mindset and approach to life. Ron discusses the development of a winning mindset, self-awareness and the importance of facing challenges head-on. He also highlights the differences between public service, politics, and the private sector.

Throughout the conversation, Ron emphasizes the impact of taking action, the importance of supportive relationships, and the lessons he has learned from everyday heroes, including his wife. Ron encourages planting seeds of positivity and offering genuine compliments to others.

Key Takeaways

• Journaling can be a powerful tool for gaining self-awareness and changing your mindset.

• Take action and don't wait for someone else to save you.

• Supportive relationships, like a spouse or partner, can provide stability and motivation.

• Plant seeds of positivity by offering genuine compliments to others.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group 

What separates good leaders from truly great ones? The answer often lies in psychological safety—the foundation of high-performing, innovative teams. In this episode of Success Leaves Clues, hosts Robin and Al sit down with Fahd Alhattab, keynote speaker and founder of Unicorn Labs, to explore how leaders can cultivate environments where people feel safe to speak up, take risks, and thrive.

Fahd shares his journey into leadership and unpacks some of the most common pitfalls founders face—especially around ego and control—and how these challenges can make or break a team. He discusses why empowerment, trust, and communication are essential for building a collaborative culture and how leaders can create long-term impact for future generations.

"Confidence without humility is a problem." ~ Fahd Alhattab

Key takeaways:

1. Building High-Performing Teams – Strong teams thrive on psychological safety, effective communication, and shared purpose. Founders must foster trust and encourage open dialogue to enable growth and learning.
2. Leadership as Leverage – Great leaders identify critical leverage points that drive success or failure. Delegation isn’t about letting go entirely—it’s about focusing on strengths while empowering teams to take ownership.
3. Overcoming Common Pitfalls – Ego, lack of systems, and resistance to change can hinder leadership. Successful founders embrace adaptability, develop scalable systems, and encourage exploration in their businesses.
4. Empowering Teams for Growth – Leadership isn’t about control; it’s about creating an environment where teams can take risks, make decisions, and evolve. A supportive network and strong group norms enhance team performance and long-term success.

If you're a leader, entrepreneur, or someone who wants to bring out the best in your team, this conversation is filled with actionable insights you won’t want to miss.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Dan Henry is the Regional Vice President, Central and Atlantic Canada for Sun Life Financial.  He is accountable for developing and delivering Sun Life's value proposition-innovative benefit solutions and exceptional customer experiences. In this episode, I sit down with Dan to find out what the folks at Sun Life have been up to.  Listen in as Dan talks to us about Sun Life's new Personal Spending Account (PSA) and why it's already garnering attention across the industry.  We also chat the company's key strategies to continually recruit and retain exceptional people.  Dan is passionate about the industry and it comes through in our conversation.  I really enjoyed my conversation with Dan.  I hope you enjoy the podcast. RB

Welcome to another episode of Success Leaves Clues, where we dive into the dynamic intersection of technology, innovation, and industry leaders. In this episode, we are thrilled to have Leon Punambolam with us, the visionary founder and CEO of Samos Insurance. With over two decades of experience in the insurance realm across North America, Leon has left an indelible mark on the industry.

As the CEO of Samos Insurance, a venture-backed 'insurtech' at the forefront of innovation, Leon continues to revolutionize the landscape by providing on-demand insurance solutions while demonstrating how technology can revolutionize the accessibility and delivery of insurance coverage in Canada. Today he shares a bit about Samos Insurance—its mission, target audience, and the unique value it brings to the insurance landscape as well as his extensive background in the industry and how his journey has shaped his perspective on the critical interplay between technology and insurance.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

In this episode of the Success Leaves Clues podcast, hosts Robin and Al dive into a captivating conversation with AJ Tibando, a dynamic entrepreneur and forward-thinking innovator who’s transforming the people she works with and redefining success. They discuss the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship, the importance of empathetic leadership, and the challenges of building connections in a hybrid work environment.

AJ shares insights from her career journey, emphasizing the significance of being seen and heard in the workplace, and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. The conversation highlights the importance of impact-driven initiatives and the role of mentorship in shaping future leaders.

"You can't always control if you're going to be successful, but you can't be afraid to try or you'll never find out." ~ AJ Tibando

Takeaways

1. Adaptability & Resilience: Embrace change and learn from failure to achieve success.

2. Empathetic Leadership: Leadership requires a human element; people want to feel valued.

3. Proactive Engagement: Encourage employees to take the initiative to be seen and heard.

4. Connection & Communication: Building strong in-person and remote relationships fosters open communication.

5. Customer & Impact Focus: Align with customer needs and pursue initiatives that drive meaningful impact.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Whether you're a music aficionado or just someone who enjoys a great story, you're in for a treat. Today we welcome Alan Cross to the podcast—a Canadian broadcasting legend, music historian, author and true connoisseur of all things audio. Based in Toronto, Ontario, he is best known nationally and internationally as host of the syndicated radio series The Ongoing History of New Music, which delves into various aspects of the music industry, including the evolution of genres, the influence of technology, and the stories behind significant bands and artists. Alan has interviewed some of the biggest names in rock, from David Bowie and U2 to Pearl Jam and the Foo Fighters.

The voice of a generation, Alan began his radio career in 1980 at the University of Winnipeg and has watched the radio media industry evolve with the times into today's digital world. He is described as "the definitive Canadian curator and contextualizer of Alternative Rock" having had a significant impact on the Canadian music scene. Hosts Robin & Al delve into Alan's journey through the world of broadcasting, his experiences with iconic musicians, and the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry. He also gives us a glimpse into some unforgettable moments and a sneak peek into what's next for this music maven.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

As Chief People Officer, Rachel Stephenson is responsible for all aspects of Northland Power’s Human Resources strategy, including talent management, leadership development, compensation and benefits, as well as leading all human resources functions globally. She works closely with the Executive team to ensure Northland continues to build a culture that attracts, retains and develops high performance talent to deliver on its global growth objectives.

Rachel brings to Northland more than 15 years of leadership in Human Resources, including extensive experience leading human resources strategies and functions for national and global organizations across multiple sectors, technologies and geographies. Rachel shares her impressive career journey and discusses the importance of courageous leadership.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

Serial entrepreneur Mike Brcic, Founder & Chief Explorer of Wayfinders, discusses the importance of connection and storytelling in personal and professional life. Mike describes how he guides entrepreneurs to remote locations, creating a setting where they can let down their guard and be truly authentic—the perfect adventure for those seeking greater fulfilment from their work, and deeper connections with their fellow founders. He emphasizes the significance of psychological safety and belonging in the workplace, as it leads to increased productivity, employee satisfaction and retention. Mike's goal is to create more connections in the world and leave a legacy of meaningful relationships.

"Creating moments of connection throughout the day and week contributes to health, well-being, and a longer life." ~ Mike Brcic

Key Takeaways

• Creating a safe and welcoming environment where people can be authentic and vulnerable leads to deeper connections and personal growth.
• Psychological safety and a sense of belonging in the workplace are crucial for productivity and employee satisfaction.
• Storytelling is a powerful tool for building connections and understanding others on a deeper level.
• Investing in relationships and creating opportunities for connection should be a priority in both personal and professional life.
• Leaving a legacy of meaningful relationships and fostering connection is a valuable contribution to the world.

Brought to you by Aria Benefits and Life & Legacy Advisory Group

How does someone with a mathematics/actuarial background become the National Sales Leader for RBC Insurance? In this episode, we chat with Matt Butters of RBC Insurance.  We learn a bit about Matt's background and how he found his way into employee benefits sales and why his education in the U.S. made him realize why he had to return to Canada.  He further fills us in on what he sees as challenges in the industry and how RBC Insurance is uniquely positioned to address some of those challenges.  I had a great time listening to what Matt had to say and I hope you do too.  Enjoy! RB