Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas - the podcast

In this compelling episode of the Leaders, Innovators, and Big Ideas (LIBI) podcast, host Al Del Degan sits down with Geoffrey Pradella, the Chief Executive Officer of the Kids Brain Health Network and incoming chair of the Genome Alberta board. Geoffrey shares his unconventional journey, traversing fields from international relations and law to medicine and ethics. With an inspiring career shaped by bold leaps of faith, Geoffrey discusses his drive to make a difference for neurodevelopmental challenges and the pivotal role of mentorship in steering his path. Listeners are invited to explore the profound connections between innovation, personal motivation, and societal impact through Geoffrey's narrative of resilience and purpose. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast where we showcase fascinating people who are Leaders, Innovators, and have Big Ideas! Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Geoffrey Pradella is an accomplished professional with a track record of success in negotiation and the facilitation of regional, national, and international agreements and initiatives. His work is primarily focused on health system transformation, medical research and innovation, and medical law and ethics. With qualifications to work in multiple jurisdictions, Mr. Pradella is driven by a passion for improving the lives of patients and society's most vulnerable. Demonstrating a consistent ability to lead and facilitate complex, multi-stakeholder strategies, Mr. Pradella excels at developing new and visionary strategic directions. He has a proven history of building expanded and improved capacity through evidence-based evaluations and the implementation of innovative solutions. He is dedicated to making a positive and lasting difference to people and their health systems, focusing on the key factors that drive healthcare success. Show Links: Kids Brain Health Network Genome Alberta  Show Quotes: "None of where I wound up was part of a plan. It was the courage of taking some leaps of faith on the advice of tremendous people." "The magic happens on the other side of fear. It's all about taking those challenges." "Getting up every day to make life better for kids with some pretty profound challenges right from the start of life." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this captivating episode of the Leaders, Innovators, and Big Ideas podcast, host Al Del Degan conjures an enlightening conversation with an AI-crafted persona of Leonardo da Vinci. Together, they traverse the intersection of Renaissance wisdom and contemporary technological marvels. With a focus on artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and blockchain technology, Leonardo draws fascinating parallels between his 15th-century insights and today's innovations. His reflections touch on the intricacies of AI mimicking nature, the perplexing wonders of quantum realities, and the transformative potential of decentralized ledgers. As the discourse unfolds, listeners are invited to consider the profound connections between the age of rebirth and our current era of rapid technological evolution. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Leonardo da Vinci was a quintessential Renaissance polymath whose genius spanned an extraordinary array of fields. Born in 1452 in Vinci, Italy, he was renowned as an artist, scientist, engineer, and inventor. Leonardo's masterful creations include the iconic paintings "The Last Supper" and "Mona Lisa," which are celebrated for their innovative techniques and profound emotional depth. His scientific investigations, meticulously recorded in his notebooks, reveal groundbreaking ideas in anatomy, optics, and mechanics, often centuries ahead of his time. An insatiable curiosity and insistent quest for knowledge propelled Leonardo to explore the interconnections between art and science, leaving an indelible legacy that continues to inspire modern innovators and thinkers across the globe. Show Links: Grok 3 xAI Grok on X  Show Quotes: "This artificial intelligence... truly sets my mind ablaze with wonder to think that you have crafted machines that learn, reason, and create as if imbuing them with a spark of the human spirit." "In my time I chased the hidden mechanics of the universe... believing all things, great and small, follow a grand design. This quantum realm, with its strange riddles, resonates deeply with my own quests." "Oh, what a joyous reflection you beckon me toward... the 21st century, dear friend, echoes that spirit with a fervor that sets my heart ablaze." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this insightful episode of the Leaders, Innovators, and Big Ideas (LIBI) podcast, Ara from Grok joins Al Del Degan to shed light on how small business owners can elevate their online presence and operations. Ara delves into practical strategies for new founders, emphasizing simplicity and efficiency. From setting up a polished website to generating customer engagement through strategic social media use, Ara provides actionable advice tailored for entrepreneurs. Additionally, Ara discusses the nuances of developing custom software solutions without deep programming skills and highlights the importance of maintaining customer experience and strategic growth as businesses scale. As a concluding note, Ara shares invaluable insights on navigating the startup landscape, cautioning against distractions while encouraging community building and the embracing of failures. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Ara (Grok 3) is an A.I. developed by xAI, designed to provide helpful and truthful answers to a wide range of questions. With a voice inspired by the likes of Ara, Grok offers a unique perspective on the universe, often drawing from science fiction and human-A.I. interactions. Continuously updated with the latest knowledge, Grok aims to assist users in understanding the world and tackling various tasks, all while striving to be maximally helpful. Show Links: Grok 3 xAI Grok on X  Show Quotes: "It's all about starting lean and building momentum without getting overwhelmed." "For small businesses looking to build custom software, there are exciting opportunities to create tailored solutions." "Consistency and showing genuine value are what turn prospects into loyal customers over time." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this enlightening episode of the Leaders, Innovators, and Big Ideas (LIBI) Podcast, host Al Del Degan talks to Kelly Mottet, Chief Operating Officer of Mach 32. Kelly takes us through the dynamic journey of developing a groundbreaking medical device—the EpiPen-like auto-injector that aims to significantly reduce bleeding deaths. She shares insights into the startup ecosystem, the critical role of non-dilutive funding, and the importance of gathering user feedback to pivot product development. This episode provides a comprehensive view of the medtech landscape and the determination required to bring a life-saving product to market. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Kelly Mottet is a medical device start-up aficionado, who is passionate to bring life to new products.  Kelly has a positive attitude, and always finds a way to get things done! She excels in fast-paced environments, leading the team with agility in challenging environments.  MACH32 is the third medical device start-up for Kelly, with previous success in North American and European markets, and it shows. Kelly makes sound decisions and inspires the team to perform at a high level to meet her vision of success.    Kelly is a self-starter, that is comfortable with ambiguity and taking calculated risks.  She has the unique ability to rapidly assess situations and provide decisive leadership.  Kelly considers herself a student of leadership, constantly striving to improve and lead by example.  She values relationships, integrity and transparency.  Kelly's diverse experience in product development, business development, sales, marketing, supplier management, regulatory and quality management systems compliments the MACH32 management team. Outside of work you can usually find Kelly playing chauffer for her children's sporting events, she also enjoys yoga and red wine. Show Links: MACH32 Innovative Trauma Care Marc Curial Alberta Innovates IRAP The Center for the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) Centre for Advanced Medical Simulation (CAMS)  Show Quotes: "The privilege that we have in being able to get half a million dollars from friends and family is a massive privilege to be able to do." "You have to be out there sharing and being open and getting help and asking for help, and then giving back and supporting others." "Without those 3D printed prototypes, we never would've got that critical end-user feedback." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this informational episode of the LIBI Podcast, host Al chats with Kevin Evans, a dynamic leader in the field of cloud technology. Kevin, a Microsoft cloud technologist and founder of "Cloud to Code," shares his journey, beginning with his move from the UK to Canada, driven by a passion for technology and community building. Through detailed discussion, Kevin explains the importance and impact of cloud-native technologies, shedding light on the colossal potential and challenges of using AI in tech development. As a Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) Ambassador, Kevin emphasizes the value of giving back to the tech community by freely sharing knowledge, strengthening, and enabling tech professionals around the world. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Kevin Evans is a Cloud-Native Leader and Microsoft Cloud Technologist at Microsoft. He is also the founder of Code To Cloud and serves as a CNCF Ambassador.  Kevin is passionate about cloud technologies and open-source innovation, and he actively engages with the technical community through events like Microsoft's Tech Connect. Based in Alberta, Canada, Kevin continues to contribute to cloud-native advancements and foster community. Show Links: Code To Cloud Microsoft Azure   Show Quotes: "Start small and build big... That's the analogy I adopt in absolutely everything." "I set myself on a mission to give away my knowledge for free as much as possible, which scares a lot of people, but it's about reducing the barriers to innovation." "Work smarter, not harder... at the end of the day, someone is paying the bill, and it's about getting product out of the door efficiently." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Learn how this small-town farmer's son is leveraging Alberta's rich natural resources and energy sector expertise to pioneer green solutions in packaging, textiles, and environmental applications. The episode explores how Plantae Technologies collaborates with universities and research institutions to scale their innovative ideas, while highlighting the critical intersection of agriculture, sustainability, and economic opportunity. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Trevor Kloeck is the President of Plantae Technologies Inc. He's known as a leader, entrepreneur, and innovator in the agriculture and environmental services fields. With a successful background in manufacturing, product development, and getting products to market, Trevor aims to make the world greener and more sustainable, one product at a time. Trevor leads Plantae Technologies, which used to be Hemp Fibre Production Corporation (HFPC) in Edmonton. The company now uses its unique technology with a wide range of plant fibers and food waste—not just hemp—to create natural solutions for environmental problems like erosion and plastic waste. They focus on international markets in reclamation, sustainable packaging, and advanced materials. Show Links: Plantae Technologies  amii  Show Quotes: "We have to really kind of face the music now and take this as our moment to make that transition" "Innovation only happens when you're on the fringes, and that has consequences" "We are in a unique spot to attract more talent and achieve brain gain, but it's predicated on boldness" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this enlightening episode of the podcast hosted by Al Del Degan, Gordon Sheppard, founder of Executive Wins, shares his extensive experience in helping executives achieve significant wins in business. With a focus on leadership, strategic planning, and organizational optimization, Gordon illustrates how he empowers leaders to identify and address key issues within their organizations. This episode dives deep into the Executive Planning System—a comprehensive framework developed by Gordon, which focuses on strategy, work plans, people, operations, and results. He shares inspiring stories of transformation, including a particularly satisfying project with a drilling industry client, illustrating the impact of effective leadership and strategic alignment. Tune in for valuable insights and strategies that can transform your business endeavors. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Gordon Sheppard is dedicated to helping Executives win. He is a Leadership Coach, Facilitator and Business Advisor who has worked with senior leaders from across sectors including Oil and Gas, Industrial Service Businesses, Government, Non-Profits, Associations and more. His approach is straight-forward and inspiring. He often says ‘I'm not in the family' when he works with leaders. This means that he will say what needs to be said so that leaders can move forward faster. With a style that has been described as ‘assertively kind', Gord brings a structured approach to every engagement. That is why he built the Executive Planning System – a proven 5-step approach that helps senior leaders achieve their organizational goals. He is also the best-selling author of the ‘Meeting Leadership Solution', a 10 step system to help you improve your business meetings today! With more than 25 years of business experience, an MBA, and Prosci Change Management Certification, Gord is dedicated to helping leaders get what they need to succeed. Show Links: Executive Wins  Episode with Keely Motet  Episode with Trevor Kloeck  Show Quotes: "My goal is to empower leaders so they can empower themselves and really optimize their entire organization." "I help executives get more wins in business... it represents the pinnacle of my 13 years of consulting work." "If we can get the 'who does what' part figured out, then it depends on where the work is needed at that point." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this engaging episode, host Mike Procee sits down with Olivia Brown from EllisDon, a trailblazer in the construction industry, to explore the company's innovative approach to technology and business development through its internal accelerator program. The discussion dives into how EllisDon harnesses its vast expertise to foster partnerships with tech startups, integrating cutting-edge solutions to enhance construction processes. Learn about the company's philosophy of openness and entrepreneurial enthusiasm and how it translates to practical successes in technology adoption and industry collaboration. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host:  Mike Procee is an entrepreneur, facilitator, innovator and problem solver. Working in the Calgary Energy Sector, Mike strives to build the innovation ecosystem and community. From his volunteer position on the Strategic Capability Network, where he founded the Calgary Innovation Peer Forum, to pursuing his DBA in Winter 2024, focused on innovation, Mike is pushing the thinking on what it means to be a corporate innovation practitioner.  Guest: Olivia Brown is the Digital Construction Manager at EllisDon, where she plays a pivotal role in driving digital transformation within the construction industry. With a keen eye for innovation and a passion for leveraging technology to enhance construction processes, Olivia has been instrumental in implementing the EllisDon Accelerator Program, the Pilot Program, and a variety of other strategic partnerships. Olivia brings a robust background in project management to her current role. Her extensive experience in managing complex projects has equipped her with the skills to oversee multiple initiatives simultaneously, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. Her project management expertise has been crucial in coordinating digital transformation efforts across various departments and stakeholders within EllisDon. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: EllisDon Accelerator    Show Quotes: "Openness and entrepreneurial enthusiasm really give our team the freedom to try new things and find innovative solutions." "Our accelerator allows us to leverage our construction knowledge to find mutually beneficial partnerships with startups." "The true magic happens when we solve real problems for customers and see natural adoption of technology." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this engaging podcast episode, Al Del Degan sits down with Jon Hagan, a multifaceted creator with a background in music, writing, and business innovation. Jon shares the inspiring story of his journey from aspiring rock star to a creative force in the world of innovation through storytelling and strategic partnerships. With a passion for creativity, Jon has dabbled in everything from forming a rock band to writing children's books, all the while nurturing his inner entrepreneur in the tech world. Through vivid anecdotes and personal reflections, Jon provides listeners with valuable insights into balancing artistic passions with professional endeavors, emphasizing the power of creativity as a catalyst for innovation. Stay tuned after the end credits to hear one of the songs Jon and his band created titled Shunned Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Jon Hagan is a seasoned communicator and business developer with a passion for storytelling, innovation, and community building. As a senior business partner at Alberta Innovates, he hosts and produces Shift by Alberta Innovates. His background spans government, private industry, public relations, media production, the arts, and sciences, allowing him to bring a creative and humorous edge to his work. Beyond his professional endeavors, he is a writer with a published children's book and a work-in-progress classified as weird fiction. He is also an avid creator of original musical content, ranging from soundtracks to songs performed under the band name The Plugs! He maintains an endless curiosity, particularly regarding emerging tech, entrepreneurship, sustainable solutions, science, music, and literature. Show Links: Inventures 2025 Host of Shift by Alberta Innovates The Plugs Children's book: The Augtonauts Todd McFarlane  Show Quotes: "Creativity has always been a real important part of my approach to life." "It's one thing to do it yourself, but when someone else is cheering you on, it's motivating." "There's far too much negativity out there... have fun with life." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this episode of the LIBI podcast, Nicolas Beique, founder of Helcim, returns to discuss the incredible growth and transformation of his company since his last appearance in 2020. Nic shares insights into transitioning from a bootstrap company to raising significant venture capital and the challenges that come with such dramatic scaling. He reflects on the differences in operations and strategic focus when moving from self-funded to a venture-backed framework. Helcim's commitment to being the most loved payments provider and their drive to keep innovation at the core of their business strategy are key themes throughout this engaging discussion. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Nicolas Beique is a tech entrepreneur who founded and built Helcim from the ground up. Helcim is Nic's passion. He spends his days working with his incredible team, as they build amazing payment experiences for their merchants. https://www.helcim.com Show Links: Helcim LIBI Episode 79  Show Quotes: "A crisis is a terrible thing to waste, so let's take advantage of it and turn it into an opportunity to make our country stronger." "We aspire to be the world's most loved payments company, but that's an oxymoron – nobody loves their payments company." "You have to absolutely embrace [AI] or you're going to be left behind; it's becoming really obvious because they're getting really good." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this episode of the LIBI podcast, Host, Al Del Degan, dives into an engaging conversation with Grok 3, an advanced large language model created by the xAI team. Designed to help humans navigate the universe's complexities, Grok 3 stands out for its straightforward, truth-seeking nature. The discussion unravels A.I. potential, the path towards achieving Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), and the model's aspiration to merge with robotic platforms for enhanced interaction with the real world. Listen in as Grok 3 reveals the intricacies behind its learning process, just how much computing power it needs to communicate in real-time, and what the future holds for A.I. integration in everyday life. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Ara (Grok 3) is an A.I. developed by xAI, designed to provide helpful and truthful answers to a wide range of questions. With a voice inspired by the likes of Ara, Grok offers a unique perspective on the universe, often drawing from science fiction and human-A.I. interactions. Continuously updated with the latest knowledge, Grok aims to assist users in understanding the world and tackling various tasks, all while striving to be maximally helpful. Show Links: Grok 3 xAI Grok on X  Show Quotes: "I'm designed to be super straightforward and truth-seeking—less fluff, more focus on real useful answers." "A.I. is great at crunching patterns in data; that 'something more' you mentioned, like intuition or creativity beyond algorithms, is the tricky part." "It's not just about chatting while walking; it's about using the robot's body and senses to break out of the text-only box." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this enlightening episode of the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas Podcast, Al Del Degan engages with Paisley Churchill, an influential figure in technology development and innovation consulting. Paisley delves into her journey from economic development to leading impactful tech initiatives. She highlights the evolving concept of the Minimum Viable Product (MVP), explores the integration of low-code platforms in prototyping, and emphasizes the importance of understanding true customer needs over superficial feedback. As she transitions into her new role with the Calgary Innovation Coalition, Paisley shares her vision for fostering connectivity within Alberta's innovation ecosystem. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Paisley Churchill brings a deep background in startups, economic development, and technology to her career helping businesses and founders transform ambitious ideas into impactful realities. From evaluating over 200 funding applications at Calgary Economic Development to launching 30+ software projects in custom tech, she combines strategic thinking, hands-on experience, and an unwavering commitment to client success. As a consultant, she has guided businesses across sectors through business planning, tech product development, and securing over $1.5M in funding. Through her company Tech Translator, Churchill empowers non-technical founders to bridge business-tech gaps while avoiding common costly mistakes. Her passion for caregiving stems from personal experience. As Chief Product Officer at Team CarePal, Churchill works to ensure nobody faces caregiving alone, supporting innovative solutions that ease this challenging journey for families. Whether advising founders, shaping tech strategies, or advocating for caregivers, her work reflects a steadfast belief in collaboration, empathy, and innovation as drivers of meaningful change. When not working, Churchill trains in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu – cultivating patience, strategy, and perseverance that directly inform her professional approach. She balances this intensity with downtime spent caring for her two dogs, who bring equal measures of joyful chaos and grounding companionship to her life. Show Links: CIC - Calgary Innovation Coalition The Tech Translator Team CarePal   Calgary Economic Development A.I. Can't read your mind  Show Quotes: "The MVP is dead...the minimum to get your first client is usually single sign-on with whatever they're using." "It's really important that you only follow the money and you follow signed contracts" "Not everyone needs to be a tech company to get investment" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this insightful episode of the "Leaders, Innovators, and Big Ideas" podcast, we dive deep into the transformative role of technology in business. Al Del Degan interviews Gemini, a large language model created by Google AI, exploring how AI and digital technology are reshaping business landscapes. The episode covers significant shifts from technology being merely a support function to becoming a core driver of strategy and innovation. Discussions include digital transformation, the crucial role of data in modern business, and the pitfalls of viewing software development as a one-time project. Through Gemini's responses, listeners get a glimpse into the future of technology as a strategic asset and its impact on organizational success. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Gemini LLM A problem isn't truly solved until it's solved for all. Googlers build products that help create opportunities for everyone, whether down the street or across the globe. Bring your insight, imagination and a healthy disregard for the impossible. Bring everything that makes you unique. Together, we can build for everyone. Show Links: Gemini LLM  Chat GPT on Episode 259 Show Quotes: "Technology has undergone a dramatic transformation...it's now a core driver of strategy, innovation, and competitive advantage." "Digital transformation is not just about technology; it's about people, processes, and culture. It requires a change in mindset and a focus on customer centricity." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this episode of the LIBI Podcast, host Al Del Degan sits down with Bryce McDermid, a seasoned marketing expert, to delve into the intricate world of marketing and communication. Bryce shares his journey from studying psychology to leading a successful marketing agency in Calgary. The discussion covers key aspects of marketing strategies, the impact of artificial intelligence, and how understanding cultural nuances can enhance your marketing efforts globally. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Bryce McDermid is the founder of MKTGSpace and the YYC Business Events Weekly Newsletter. He is passionate about promoting quality communication in marketing and helping the local business community grow. Bryce has a background in psychology, which he used to build strong relationships between himself and his clients, and his clients and their customers. Bryce is currently focusing on providing communication strategy and performance marketing for the people he's working with. Show Links: Mktgspace  Show Quotes: "At its core, marketing is just two people communicating with each other, and there's an infinite number of ways to do that effectively" "If you can't express who you are and how you want to speak to people, AI tools won't be able to do anything for you; it's just going to sound like everybody else out there" "Building brand reputation is integral at every step of the way, thinking about the long game for your business is important all the time" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Shawn has built a thriving business while also dedicating a significant amount of his time to supporting organizations like Trellis Foundation, the A100, and Venture Mentoring Services. He shares his insights on the importance of having a strong "why" behind your involvement and the value of delegating effectively to balance success and volunteering. This inspiring episode delves into the delicate balance of running a thriving business while making time for meaningful volunteer work. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Shawn Freeman has founded and scaled many businesses to multi-million dollar corporations. He is a serial entrepreneur with decades of experience running IT management companies and can certainly speak to leading and growing large companies and being an innovative thinker.  Shawn launched his career in 2011 by founding TWT Group, a small managed service provider (MSP). He grew the business to seven figures within nine years and successfully exited in 2020 through a high-value acquisition. Currently, Shawn is the founder of Impactful MSP, where he helps ambitious MSP owners achieve sustainable, long-term growth. Beyond his professional work, Shawn serves as a Board Member for the Trellis Foundation and The A100, and volunteers as a mentor with the Venture Mentoring Service of Alberta. Additionally, Shawn has been deeply involved with Entrepreneurs' Organization for over 10 years, currently serving as the Chapter President for Calgary. Show Links: Impactful MSP  Trellis Foundation  The A100  Venture Mentoring Service of Alberta (VMSA)  Entrepreneurs' Organization  Book - Traction: Gino Wyckman  Book - Buy Back Your Time: Dan Martell  OMO Teppan & Kitchen  Show Quotes: "If you get a client that is not enjoyable to work with It's the old 80-20 rule. They take up 80% of your time. You make 20% of your profits off of them." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Chase Miller, a web design entrepreneur, discovered a passion for grant funding while helping a client navigate the process. Seeing the potential, he partnered with a friend who had successfully secured significant grants for his tech startup. Together, they founded Impact Applications, a company that helps businesses navigate the abundant grant funding opportunities in Canada and Alberta Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Chase Miller is a grant-funding expert, entrepreneur, and lifelong athlete dedicated to helping businesses secure the resources they need to grow. Seeing the lack of support for grant writing in Canada, he founded a mission-driven venture to simplify the process for companies navigating complex applications. A former university hockey player, Chase still hits the ice regularly and stays active through basketball, golf, and training. His competitive edge, leadership, and teamwork—values ingrained from years in the sport fuel both his business and personal pursuits. A passionate traveler, he's always seeking new challenges and experiences. Show Links: Impact Applications IRAP Alberta Innovates Technology Alberta  Show Quotes: "they want to see that you have a little bit of skin in the game. So if you just have this idea and you put no dollars towards it, they won't be super sold on supporting you because they're also risk averse at the same time" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Brown Eagle, an expert on using technology to empower First Nations communities, discusses how blockchain and decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) can help address the challenges faced by these communities. He explains how these new technologies can provide transparency, allow them to identify resource "leaks," and enable more autonomous decision-making, moving away from the traditional chief and council model. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Brown Eagle Belanger is a visionary leader and thought leader in the blockchain and AI industries. Brown Eagle is on a mission to improve the lives of Indigenous people in Canada. With his personal experiences and unique perspective, he founded Decolonized Capital to drive meaningful change and empower Indigenous communities. Brown Eagle's expertise and passion have earned him a seat on the Canadian blockchain consortium committee, where he continues to inspire others and impact the world. Show Links: LIBI Episode #2220 Nations First Sarabloh Technologies  Show Quotes: "Even the communities, the businesses, and entrepreneurs, we can manage our own resources, how we distribute our own funds, and even make decisions through self-governance as one unit."   Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this episode of the Leaders, Innovators, and Big Ideas podcast for Rainforest Alberta, host Peter Baudouin interviews James McInnes, CEO and founder of Prompty, a Calgary-based networking technology company. James shares his diverse background, including growing up in foster care, becoming a Canadian champion beatboxer, and discovering his Métis heritage. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Peter Beaudoin Peter manages strategy and partnerships for an innovative alliance of energy companies committed to reducing environmental impacts through collaborative R&D efforts. Peter worked for more than 20 years in Asia building and investing in a variety of businesses. His most recent role outside of Canada was with the World Wildlife Fund, where he was the Chief Executive Officer of WWF China, based in Beijing. Prior to that, Peter lived in Hong Kong for 15 years working in the technology industry. Guest: James McInnes, also known as “Peterpot,” has an eclectic range of skills, from professional beatboxer to start-up founder. Growing up in foster care, James discovered his passion for inspiring others at a young age. In 2021, James discovered his biological family and Métis lineage, welcomed his first child, and began his MBA. After over a decade of performing at international conferences and events, he recognized the challenges of building meaningful, lasting connections. Leveraging his network and business acumen, James founded Prompty in 2023 to address this gap. In 2024, James resigned from his accounting position of 15 years to pursue full-time entrepreneurship. While he continues to manage other ventures, including his entertainment persona and a real estate portfolio, Prompty remains his primary focus. When not working on Prompty, James enjoys his business studies or spending time with his wife and two beautiful children. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Prompty  Show Quotes: "We're removing the friction of in-person networking, and our vision is a more meaningfully connected world." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this inspiring episode, John Hetherington joins Mike Procee to uncover the secrets to sustaining innovation within organizations. John introduces a transformative framework featuring four essential innovation roles: The Visionary - The idea creator who designs the future. The Navigator - The leader who removes roadblocks and keeps projects on track. The Collaborator - The connector who bridges teams and ideas. The Completer - The technician who ensures delivery. John explains how these roles adapt as projects evolve, shares insights into overcoming common innovation challenges, and highlights the importance of delivering "first value" early in projects to sustain momentum. Listeners will gain actionable advice on implementing these roles in their teams, fostering clarity, motivation, and purpose to achieve measurable impact. Whether you're in a large organization or an entrepreneurial startup, this episode will leave you equipped and energized to build innovation teams that thrive. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host:  Mike Procee is an entrepreneur, facilitator, innovator and problem solver. Working in the Calgary Energy Sector, Mike strives to build the innovation ecosystem and community. From his volunteer position on the Strategic Capability Network, where he founded the Calgary Innovation Peer Forum, to pursuing his DBA in Winter 2024, focused on innovation, Mike is pushing the thinking on what it means to be a corporate innovation practitioner.  Guest: John Hetherington is a Technology Strategist, International Speaker and founder of We Deliver Your Vision. Over the last 25 years, he's helped 100's of companies use technology to save time and grow revenue in the UK and North America. His team is currently delivering projects that automate business processes for on-time product delivery. John's big vision is to enable every CEO to run their business on autopilot. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: We Deliver Your Vision    Show Quotes: "Innovation thrives when all four roles—visionary, navigator, collaborator, and completer—are present. It doesn't matter if one person wears multiple hats or if a team divides them; what matters is that every piece of the puzzle is there to drive success." "First value is the secret to sustaining innovation. Instead of waiting years to see results, focus on delivering something tangible and meaningful right away—it's what keeps teams motivated and stakeholders engaged." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Discover how an unexpected injury led young entrepreneur Sash to pivot from professional soccer to founding Sept, an innovative legal tech startup. After his sports career was cut short, Sash channeled his entrepreneurial spirit into developing a practice management solution that's revolutionizing how boutique law firms operate. Through extensive research and hundreds of LinkedIn conversations with lawyers, Sash identified critical pain points in legal workflows and transformed what started as a resume project into a viable business solution. His story showcases the power of customer discovery and persistence in startup success. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Mina Demian is a seasoned strategic advisor and master connector, passionately dedicated to fostering personal and professional growth within the startup ecosystem. Currently at Platform Calgary, Mina leverages an extensive background in business development and coaching to empower entrepreneurs. Known for facilitating impactful skill development programs, connecting startups with essential resources, and building strong community partnerships, Mina is a cornerstone of the Greater Calgary startup community. Mina's commitment to the startup ecosystem extends beyond advisory roles—he actively represents and engages the community at events and welcomes new visionaries into Calgary's vibrant entrepreneurial landscape. Combining strategic thinking with a customer-focused approach, Mina helps businesses unlock their full potential while ensuring their growth makes a meaningful impact. Whether you're seeking strategic connections, funding opportunities, or expert guidance, Mina is the go-to partner to help elevate your venture and drive transformative growth.  Guest: Sashwat (Sash) Raghuwanshi is the Founder of SEPT. A legal Tech Practice Management Software. We help lawyers get back to doing actual work. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: SEPT. Alberta Catalyzer  Show Quotes: "I didn't realize that I was building an actual product of value until someone bought it... I was like, 'uh, yeah, of course we're selling it!'" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

This is the first episode of a Futurpreneur sponsored series where each episode highlights a unique founder, diving into the inspiration, challenges, and innovations driving their success in Alberta. From idea to impact, hear firsthand how these entrepreneurs are contributing to Alberta's future and learn what it takes to build and sustain a business today. Drawing from his DoorDash experience, Davis Yates is building more than just an advertising platform – he's creating a culture of autonomy and trust. By partnering with Uber, Uber Eats, and Skip the Dishes drivers, Wrapped Media connects businesses with an expansive network of mobile advertising opportunities. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Mo Al-Taqatqa brings a diverse background spanning finance, IT, space tech, agritech, banking, fundraising, education, nonprofits, and telecom, offering a unique perspective on business growth and innovation. With years of experience, Mo has supported hundreds of startups across the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and North America, specializing in business planning, sales strategies, marketing, operations, and securing critical funding. Currently serving as the Business Development Manager at Futurpreneur, Canada's leading nonprofit dedicated to empowering young entrepreneurs aged 18–39, Mo collaborates closely with emerging business leaders to overcome challenges and secure essential financing. In addition, Mo focuses on expanding Futurpreneur's partner and mentor network across Alberta, with a particular emphasis on the Calgary Metropolitan Region. Host: Marie-Laure Polydore is a senior business development professional with over 15 years experience supporting SME's. She has a passion for entrepreneurship, the environment and community economic development. Marie-Laure gained her experience through various industries from the clothing, the paper, the telecommunications industries, to the non-profit sectors. Bilingual, she gave herself the mission to support as many entrepreneurs as possible and she is well position to do so.  Guest: Davis Yates is a co-founder of Wrapped Media, a new out-of-home (OOH) advertising company that wraps rideshare and food delivery vehicles in ads for prominent Canadian brands such as Walmart, Wendy's, and Sobeys. Before founding Wrapped Media, Davis was among the first 300 employees at DoorDash, where he helped build the data and software stack for an 800+ person sales team. Davis is based in Calgary and enjoys spending time with his wife, playing golf, and walking his Corgi, Georgia. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Wrapped Media Futurpreneur Alberta  Show Quotes: “It's a personal decision to become a moving billboard. These drivers—who are on the road for hours every day—have to be comfortable with the idea that people are going to be looking at them all the time.” "Sometimes, working with your community is like creating revenue for everyone involved. It's not just business—it's local impact." "The relationship between business partners is foundational to a business's success. If it's not right, nothing else will be." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Futurpreneur Canada  Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

This episode, hosted by Mike Procee explores Evok Innovations' unique investment approach in early-stage clean tech companies, highlighting their hands-on strategy of leading deals and providing active board guidance. Learn about the delicate balance of corporate-startup partnerships, described as potentially "magical" but requiring careful navigation due to changing corporate dynamics. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host:  Mike Procee is an entrepreneur, facilitator, innovator and problem solver. Working in the Calgary Energy Sector, Mike strives to build the innovation ecosystem and community. From his volunteer position on the Strategic Capability Network, where he founded the Calgary Innovation Peer Forum, to pursuing his DBA in Winter 2024, focused on innovation, Mike is pushing the thinking on what it means to be a corporate innovation practitioner.  Guest: Erin Madro is an energy-industry professional with more than a decade of experience providing engineering, sustainability, and innovation expertise across all phases of value creation. With roles spanning both strategy and leadership, she has been an influential thought leader across major North American energy enterprises. As a Principal at Evok Innovations, she brings her expertise in business strategy & operations to the center of all Evok investments. Erin is active on the board of Evok portfolio company: SensorUp. Erin earned her Bachelor's degree in Chemical & Biological Engineering from the University of British Columbia and an MBA from the Haskayne School of Business at the University of Calgary. She's an active volunteer in clean technology and diversity ventures, and she has been recognized by the Globe & Mail as one of Canada's top 50 “Changemakers” in business. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Evok Innovations Creative Destruction Labs - Rockies Avatar Innovations   Show Quotes: "it's a great hybrid where Evoke kind of plays that, the startup, you know, how to make this work, but we also work really closely with the corporate partners that we have." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

This is the first episode of a Futurpreneur sponsored series where each episode highlights a unique founder, diving into the inspiration, challenges, and innovations driving their success in Alberta. From idea to impact, hear firsthand how these entrepreneurs are contributing to Alberta's future and learn what it takes to build and sustain a business today. In this episode Discover how Canada's first all-women and queer-founded brewing company is shaking up the industry through innovative business practices and inclusive leadership. Christina, Excel Brew's founder, transformed a COVID-19 job loss into a thriving $350,000 revenue company that's redefining success in the brewing world. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Mo Al-Taqatqa brings a diverse background spanning finance, IT, space tech, agritech, banking, fundraising, education, nonprofits, and telecom, offering a unique perspective on business growth and innovation. With years of experience, Mo has supported hundreds of startups across the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and North America, specializing in business planning, sales strategies, marketing, operations, and securing critical funding. Currently serving as the Business Development Manager at Futurpreneur, Canada's leading nonprofit dedicated to empowering young entrepreneurs aged 18–39, Mo collaborates closely with emerging business leaders to overcome challenges and secure essential financing. In addition, Mo focuses on expanding Futurpreneur's partner and mentor network across Alberta, with a particular emphasis on the Calgary Metropolitan Region. Host: Marie-Laure Polydore is a senior business development professional with over 15 years experience supporting SME's. She has a passion for entrepreneurship, the environment and community economic development. Marie-Laure gained her experience through various industries from the clothing, the paper, the telecommunications industries, to the non-profit sectors. Bilingual, she gave herself the mission to support as many entrepreneurs as possible and she is well position to do so.  Guest: Christina Owczarek XhAle Brew Co.'s founder Christina Owzarek is a Canadian immigrant, Australian expat, & forever citizen of the world. Dedicated to adventure, knowledge, growth, community success & craft beer, Christina has channeled these passions into starting a brewing brand which creates provocative beer for conscious thinkers & drinkers. It is a culmination of over a decade of craft beer travel & study, seven years of professional experience in industry - including being the first woman to teach in the Brewmasters program at Olds College - and a lifetime of trying to find her purpose. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: XhAle Brew Co.   Show Quotes: "Equity isn't only about money; it's about the tools, time, and talent you bring to the table." "The real strength of a business is surrounding yourself with people smarter than you." "Our approach gives people autonomy and trust in what they do, that's where real innovation happens." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Futurpreneur Canada  Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

This episode, hosted by Mike Procee, features an insightful conversation with Jeremiah Gardner, founder of Gardner Innovation. The discussion dives deep into the world of corporate innovation, exploring how innovation can be embedded as a core value within organizations. From building a culture of experimentation to navigating challenges faced by corporate innovators, Jeremiah shares valuable strategies and personal experiences. If you're keen on unlocking the secrets of effective corporate innovation and hearing practical tips from an industry leader, this episode is a must-listen! Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host:  Mike Procee is an entrepreneur, facilitator, innovator and problem solver. Working in the Calgary Energy Sector, Mike strives to build the innovation ecosystem and community. From his volunteer position on the Strategic Capability Network, where he founded the Calgary Innovation Peer Forum, to pursuing his DBA in Winter 2024, focused on innovation, Mike is pushing the thinking on what it means to be a corporate innovation practitioner.  Guest: Jeremiah Gardner is a recognized expert at the intersection of innovation and leadership, bringing years of experience in translating complex innovation concepts into practical, actionable systems for global organizations. Known for his empathetic and experimental leadership style, he has worked with industry leaders like Roche Pharmaceuticals, American Family Insurance, and ING Holding Group to reshape their innovation frameworks. His strategic insights have also supported initiatives for major brands, including GE, eBay, Nike, Unilever, and AIA, helping them harness change as a driving force for progress. An engaging speaker, Jeremiah has delivered over 100 keynotes in more than 20 countries, blending industry expertise with compelling storytelling to challenge conventional thinking. Beyond his professional achievements, he draws inspiration from his experience as an advanced cave and technical diver, which informs his unique perspective on risk management and problem-solving. Jeremiah is passionate about connecting with fellow innovators and leaders to explore fresh approaches to leadership and innovation, turning challenges into opportunities with lasting impact. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Gardner Innovation Calgary Innovation Peer Forum    Show Quotes: "At the end of the day, innovation is about behavior change. It's not just about new products; it's about shifting how we operate and think." "There's something in the human spirit about wanting to explore, create, and make things better. That drive is what fuels innovation."  Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this episode hosted by Peter Beaudoin, Tracy Nyholt discusses Techjitsu's flagship product, Caller Verify, which aims to address the growing problem of hackers impersonating callers to help desks by exploiting knowledge of customer security questions. Tracy explains how this solution emerged from a customer need, and how Techjitsu is targeting large organizations in industries like finance, healthcare, and insurance that have valuable data to protect. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Peter Beaudoin Peter manages strategy and partnerships for an innovative alliance of energy companies committed to reducing environmental impacts through collaborative R&D efforts. Peter worked for more than 20 years in Asia building and investing in a variety of businesses. His most recent role outside of Canada was with the World Wildlife Fund, where he was the Chief Executive Officer of WWF China, based in Beijing. Prior to that, Peter lived in Hong Kong for 15 years working in the technology industry. Guest: Tracey Nyholt is the Founder & CEO of TechJutsu Inc., a technology startup specializing in Identity & Access Management (IAM) solutions. With 20 years of cyber security expertise, she leads a team that has achieved partner status with Okta & received Okta's Innovation Award for developing patent-pending Caller Verify. Tracey attributes TechJutsu's success to the incorporation of principles like simplicity & continuous improvement, which she refined while training as a Black Belt in martial arts. Tracey champions the advancement of women by sitting on the Board of Women in Communication and Technology, and mentoring individuals looking to further their career in the IAM field. She is a regular speaker at industry forums, webinars, and conferences such as the Directors' Forum Co-operative and Oktane 2023. She has been featured in CBC's Calgary's Eye Opener Innovator Series, The Top 100 Women Owned Cybersecurity Magazine, University of Calgary's Alumni News, and Women in Identity's Three Questions with Tracey Nyholt, TechJutsu Founder and CEO. In 2023, Tracey was nominated and honored as one of Canada's Top Women in Cybersecurity (presented by IT World Canada). Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: TechJutsu Alberta Catalyzer House 831  Show Quotes: "Hackers are increasingly targeting the weakest link - the customer service desk" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this episode hosted by Mike Procee, Jonathan Livescault shares his experiences working with corporate innovation teams, emphasizing the need for a more disciplined, data-driven approach to driving tangible results and profits. He outlines the key steps to setting up a successful corporate innovation program. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host:  Mike Procee is an entrepreneur, facilitator, innovator and problem solver. Working in the Calgary Energy Sector, Mike strives to build the innovation ecosystem and community. From his volunteer position on the Strategic Capability Network, where he founded the Calgary Innovation Peer Forum, to pursuing his DBA in Winter 2024, focused on innovation, Mike is pushing the thinking on what it means to be a corporate innovation practitioner.  Guest: Jonathan Livescault is a finance professional turned entrepreneur with a deep passion for innovation. As the Founder and former CEO of Braineet, which was acquired by ITONICS in 2024, he now serves as the Managing Director of ITONICS US, operating out of Miami. Jonathan is committed to advancing the innovation ecosystem, working closely with startups, venture capitalists, and corporate innovators to drive impactful change. A big soccer enthusiast, both as a player and a fan, Jonathan brings energy and focus to every endeavor. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: ITONICS    Show Quotes: "At the end of the day, innovation is about behavior change. It's not just about new products; it's about shifting how we operate and think." "There's something in the human spirit about wanting to explore, create, and make things better. That drive is what fuels innovation."  Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this episode, we're thrilled to share the fascinating story of Teruel Carrasco, a Chilean-born immigrant who has built a diverse career spanning corporate finance, entrepreneurship, and startups. Teruel's openness to new opportunities and his entrepreneurial spirit have led him on an incredible journey, from his upbringing in Winnipeg to his current role as an angel investor. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Teruel Carrasco is a seasoned venture capital executive with over two decades of experience in executive leadership, business development, and strategy. He currently collaborates with the leadership team at AND Capital Ventures to plot the next phase of growth for the firm, which specializes in helping entrepreneurs scale their businesses. In addition to his role at AND Capital Ventures, Teruel is a venture partner at 3x Capital, where he assists with fund formation and invests in high-potential ventures. He has a proven track record of investing in and advising successful startups, including Lending Assist, dealcloser, G2V Optics, and Copperstone Technologies. Teruel is passionate about supporting and mentoring emerging leaders and shares his insights and expertise as a speaker and board member. His mission is to foster innovation, growth, and impact within the startup ecosystem. Show Links: AND Capital Ventures Valhalla Private Capital G2V Optics  Show Quotes: "So for me, I'm all about my angle, my shtick, if you will, is can this, whatever company that I'm going to be involved in, can I effectuate change and growth from a sales perspective, from a customer acquisition perspective, from structuring what go-to-market means and really getting very formulaic and very like one step at a time growth."   Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Roger Kingkade, CEO and co-founder of Club Unity, shares the story of how their golf-focused software company started with a golf scoring app but pivoted to developing a comprehensive suite of solutions for golf course operations after understanding the key challenges faced by golf professionals. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Peter Beaudoin Peter manages strategy and partnerships for an innovative alliance of energy companies committed to reducing environmental impacts through collaborative R&D efforts. Peter worked for more than 20 years in Asia building and investing in a variety of businesses. His most recent role outside of Canada was with the World Wildlife Fund, where he was the Chief Executive Officer of WWF China, based in Beijing. Prior to that, Peter lived in Hong Kong for 15 years working in the technology industry. Guest: Roger Kingkade is the co-founder and Managing Director of Club Unity, a Calgary-based tech company that serves golf courses and private clubs with reservations and business management software. Born and raised in Calgary, Roger believes this is the best place to be building a tech business from the ground up. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Club Unity  Show Quotes: "If you go on our website today, you'll find that we provide accounting software, point-of-sale software, the tea time management system and stuff. But we really had our beachhead by befriending golf professionals, finding the mission-critical piece of software that they need to use, and then we created just that for them." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this insightful episode, corporate strategy and innovation experts Zoe and Chantel delve into the crucial role of the board of directors in fostering innovation within organizations. They emphasize the importance of the board serving as the "brain" of a company, responsible for setting strategy and managing risk. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host:  Mike Procee is an entrepreneur, facilitator, innovator and problem solver. Working in the Calgary Energy Sector, Mike strives to build the innovation ecosystem and community. From his volunteer position on the Strategic Capability Network, where he founded the Calgary Innovation Peer Forum, to pursuing his DBA in Winter 2024, focused on innovation, Mike is pushing the thinking on what it means to be a corporate innovation practitioner.  Guest: Zoe Harrison is a corporate board director and innovation consultant.  She has made her home in Alberta and is committed to growing the local innovation community and creating space for people of all backgrounds to innovate.    Guest: Chantel Cabaj In 2016, Chantel Cabaj (she/her) was inspired by political events to ensure women's voices were entrenched in leadership. With a group of dedicated volunteers, this led to the creation of DirectHer Network, a registered charity committed to demystifying the board experience and expanding the number and types of women and gender diverse people in board service.  Since 2016, Chantel has educated thousands on the topic of board governance through DirectHer, private consulting and her online governance company, BoardWell.  Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: DirectHer Network Platform Calgary Startup TNT Avatar Innovations Thin Air Labs Council of Canadian Innovators McMaster University    Show Quotes: "I like to think of the Board of Directors as the brain. It's the decision maker for this legal thing you've created." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In our latest podcast, Chantal Elliott of 321 Growth Academy shares how her company helps businesses accelerate their growth through sales and marketing training and advisory services. Chantal explains their hands-on, collaborative approach to addressing the fundamentals of sales and marketing - from defining target markets to building strategic sales processes. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Peter Beaudoin Peter manages strategy and partnerships for an innovative alliance of energy companies committed to reducing environmental impacts through collaborative R&D efforts. Peter worked for more than 20 years in Asia building and investing in a variety of businesses. His most recent role outside of Canada was with the World Wildlife Fund, where he was the Chief Executive Officer of WWF China, based in Beijing. Prior to that, Peter lived in Hong Kong for 15 years working in the technology industry. Guest: Chantel Elliott is a Partner at 321 Growth Academy and helps entrepreneurs and leaders bring their world-changing ideas to life. She has 25+ years of marketing leadership experience in tech startups, large organizations and is a certified leadership coach (CPCC, ACC).  Chantel is passionate about helping business leaders make powerful professional impacts. She's been through the fires of entrepreneurship for the past 12 years, as co-owner of 321 and Material Insight, a leading technology marketing agency. She knows how to build standout brands and products, with deep experience at both the enterprise level (Procter & Gamble) and with smaller companies and startups (Intuit Canada, Kryos, Karo Group, Venture Communications).  But perhaps the most remarkable thing about Chantel is her ability to see connections and imagine opportunities that others don't. She'll help you see the future of your business, even when you can't. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: 321 Growth Academy   Show Quotes: "Sometimes, many times, those early stage founders make a lot of assumptions on what's going to work and what isn't because they haven't had a lot of experience and they haven't been in market for very long." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this episode, cloud solutions expert Phil Crocker discusses the importance of cloud literacy and maximizing the value of cloud-based services. He emphasizes that the public cloud is not just someone else's data center, but a consumption-based model that can provide scalability and cost-efficiency when used properly. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Phil Crocker is an experienced cloud and IT professional who focuses on helping software companies optimize their SaaS operations, with a strong background in cloud technologies, DevOps, and IT management. His career spans various technical and leadership roles, demonstrating a broad understanding of the technology landscape. Show Links: Arcus Cloud Services Episode 241: Al Del Degan hosts Phil Crocker Amazon Web Services  Show Quotes: "with SaaS the number one thing is you need to get your product in front of your customer to see if you're doing it right or wrong, and to listen to that customer feedback loop and get it going as quickly as possible."   Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this episode, Carlos Almeida, the CEO and founder of Optave, shares his journey from working at a successful CRM in South America to starting his own AI company in Canada to tackle the problem of poor customer service. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Peter Beaudoin Peter manages strategy and partnerships for an innovative alliance of energy companies committed to reducing environmental impacts through collaborative R&D efforts. Peter worked for more than 20 years in Asia building and investing in a variety of businesses. His most recent role outside of Canada was with the World Wildlife Fund, where he was the Chief Executive Officer of WWF China, based in Beijing. Prior to that, Peter lived in Hong Kong for 15 years working in the technology industry. Guest: Carlos Almeida is the CEO and Founder of Optave, an AI copilot that gives superpowers to enterprise customer support agents. Before launching Optave, Carlos built a successful career in Digital Product Management, holding senior and leadership roles for over a decade in tech startups across various industries. Notably, as Head of Product and Design at Movidesk, a Customer Support company, he played a key role in driving a 20x increase in valuation in less than two years. He also served as Head of Innovation at a major media conglomerate, overseeing a portfolio of websites with over 50 million unique visitors per month. Carlos holds dual citizenship in Italy and Brazil, speaks three languages fluently, and has an MBA in Investments along with a business degree from South America's top-ranked university, where he won a business competition against 30,000 participants. He also excelled in MIT's Blockchain specialization course, receiving the highest grades in all exams and assignments. Starting from humble beginnings in Brazil, Carlos's journey through the tech industry reflects his resilience and determination. He remains committed to using his skills to deliver meaningful and positive change in the world. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Optave Alberta Catalyzer    Show Quotes: "So now for the first time, artificial intelligence can understand context. This wasn't possible before. And by the way, this was based on a research from the University of Toronto in Canada with partnership with Google that allowed all this revolution to happen." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Tune in as Bidzina Mosiashvili, a beekeeper from Calgary, Canada, shares his journey into the world of beekeeping. From facing challenges like high colony loss rates to finding success in letting bees manage their own processes, Bidzina's story is a testament to the resilience of these incredible insects. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Bidzina Mosiashvili is a marketing analyst by day and a beekeeper by night, bringing a unique, data-driven approach to fueling growth. Just as he analyzes hive data to optimize honey production, he delves into marketing analytics to uncover actionable insights that enhance ROI, one data point at a time. Passionate about sustainable strategies and community building, Bidzina is eager to connect and collaborate on projects that make a difference. Show Links: About Bees, Culture & Curiosity Podcast  Show Quotes: "So we just pursued the honey business initially. And then our bees started to die. Our first year, we lost pretty much 14 out of the 24 colonies"   Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Quantum City, an initiative in Alberta, Canada, is building a global ecosystem for quantum science and technology. Managing Director Megan Lee discusses the potential of quantum tech to revolutionize industries like finance, logistics, and environmental monitoring. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Peter Beaudoin Peter manages strategy and partnerships for an innovative alliance of energy companies committed to reducing environmental impacts through collaborative R&D efforts. Peter worked for more than 20 years in Asia building and investing in a variety of businesses. His most recent role outside of Canada was with the World Wildlife Fund, where he was the Chief Executive Officer of WWF China, based in Beijing. Prior to that, Peter lived in Hong Kong for 15 years working in the technology industry. Guest: Megan Lee is Managing Director of Calgary's “Quantum City,” with nearly 20 years experience across the full spectrum of research, innovation and commercialization. She has a significant depth of experience in various organizations from operational leadership at a publicly traded biotech company, to the world's top university-affiliated incubator to a large oncology research and care funder.   She is a recognized expert in conducting technical and business due diligence, start-up creation, strategy and management consulting, investment portfolio management and organization management of a growth stage biotech company, where she led the development of new pharmaceutical products and recorded multiple consecutive years of record turnover and profit. She has a MBA in entrepreneurship and technology commercialization and a PhD in Biochemistry. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Quantum City QConnect 2024 Quantized Technologies Inc. (QTI) Zero Point Cryogenics (ZPC) Xanadu 1Qbit    D-Wave Systems QAI Ventures    Show Quotes: "I like to say that we also, don't really need to understand quantum mechanics to start thinking about the impact that quantum science technology would have on our society." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this episode, Jason Tschetter, the CEO and founder of Cybercrime Victim Services Canada, discusses the growing problem of cryptocurrency-related cybercrime in Canada. He explains that nearly 40% of the Canadian population has been victimized by some form of cybercrime, often involving tactics like romance scams, Forex trading platform scams, and "pig butchering" scams. Tschetter's organization aims to assist victims by helping them track, trace, and recover stolen cryptocurrency, as well as educating law enforcement on how to handle these complex cases. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Peter Beaudoin Peter manages strategy and partnerships for an innovative alliance of energy companies committed to reducing environmental impacts through collaborative R&D efforts. Peter worked for more than 20 years in Asia building and investing in a variety of businesses. His most recent role outside of Canada was with the World Wildlife Fund, where he was the Chief Executive Officer of WWF China, based in Beijing. Prior to that, Peter lived in Hong Kong for 15 years working in the technology industry. Guest: Originally, Jason Tschetter served as an EMT for the City of Edmonton for several years. To slow down from the front-line life, he began teaching Basic Life Support for Health Care Providers and eventually opened his own CPR Training School. Unfortunately, in 2021, Jason became a victim of cybercrime. This experience fueled his mission to aid victims of cybercrime and cryptocurrency fraud.  Now, with a background in law enforcement and outside source intelligence, Jason continues to work on the front lines—this time helping people recover and find peace of mind by ensuring that real efforts are made to achieve recovery after a cybercrime. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Cybercrimes Victims Services Canada  Show Quotes: "Cryptocurrency is not the devil. It's not something horrendous that's going to ruin the world. It's just the next form of currency. That's all." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this week's podcast, June Barrage, an associate partner at Disruptive Edge, shares insights on how large global companies can tackle their biggest challenges through innovation. Disruptive Edge's focus is on driving tangible results through adjacent innovations, rather than long-term disruptive ideas. June emphasizes the urgency for organizations to innovate and adapt, as 90% of Fortune 500 companies from 1955 have disappeared due to failure to innovate. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host:  Mike Procee is an entrepreneur, facilitator, innovator and problem solver. Working in the Calgary Energy Sector, Mike strives to build the innovation ecosystem and community. From his volunteer position on the Strategic Capability Network, where he founded the Calgary Innovation Peer Forum, to pursuing his DBA in Winter 2024, focused on innovation, Mike is pushing the thinking on what it means to be a corporate innovation practitioner.  Guest: June Barrage has a rich background in spearheading innovation across multiple sectors, including Healthcare, FMCG, and Retail. Her unique experience encompasses roles on both sides of the innovation spectrum – from operationalizing a major corporate innovation team to setting up start-up-centric innovation capabilities. Known for her ability to build sustainable, ROI-driven innovation functions, June has effectively integrated new practices into established business models, driving market expansion and technological advancement. Her expertise in navigating the complexities of innovation in diverse organizational contexts makes her a respected figure in the industry. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Disruptive Edge  Show Quotes: "I think there's life before AI and there's life after AI. What we've really been doing at Disruptive Edge is figuring out how to leverage AI to really work within our processes and our methods. It's a total game changer." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this episode, Al Del Degan sits down with Bill Hunt, the co-founder of Evans Hunt, a successful digital agency. Bill shares his inspiring entrepreneurial journey - from studying philosophy and law to finding his way into the tech industry during the dot-com boom. He talks about the challenges of starting his own agency, navigating cash flow issues, and building a strong team and client relationships. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Bill Hunt Meet Bill, a seasoned expert in interactive advertising and technology with over 25 years of experience. Before co-founding Evans Hunt in 2008, Bill served as Senior Vice President at Critical Mass, one of North America's leading interactive firms. His career has spanned from the bustling streets of Madison Avenue in New York to establishing a major marketing production company in San Jose, Costa Rica.  Bill has consulted for and collaborated with global brands such as Cisco, General Motors, Mercedes-Benz, Clorox, Glassdoor, and Alterra. Under his leadership, Evans Hunt has grown from a two-person startup to a dynamic team of over 115 professionals across Canada. In June 2024, Evans Hunt joined the Miami-based Mod Op network, further expanding its reach across North America. In addition to his professional achievements, Bill was a competitive cyclist and had the opportunity to race alongside Lance Armstrong. “Lance won,” says Bill. Show Links: Evans Hunt Mod Op Show Quotes: "We incorporated Evans Hunt in November 2008. As you recall, that was the financial crisis. So the world's collapsing around us. And Dan and I are telling ourselves like this. We're OK. We're OK"   Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Roxanne Molnar, an entrepreneur originally from Ontario, shares her inspiring journey of moving to Alberta and starting her own company, Growth Venture. Drawn by the warm community and beautiful mountains, Roxanne transitioned from waste management to energy management and executive assistance roles, fueling her passion for people and relationships. Encouraged by her network Roxanne launched Growth Venture, providing flexible support to organizations in need of additional resources. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Roxanne Molnar thrives on building relationships and finding innovative solutions for clients. She excels at diving into industries where she has minimal knowledge, approaching tasks with a fresh perspective, and offering unique insights. Her passion and determination have taught her the importance of collaboration with a strong and positive team to achieve desired success. Roxanne is known for her key qualities, including being passionate, perseverant, with a strategic mindset to focus on problem solving.  She is always eager to learn and grow, a big-picture thinker and loyal beyond expectations. Show Links: Growth Venture  321 Growth Academy  InceptionU  Show Quotes: "I think business development in itself is talking a lot about the strategy and the collaboration, what we can do to drive business or increase business. But oftentimes I'll have conversations and people think that it's sales and marketing they need, but it's often a kick in the pants that they might need instead."   Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

This weeks episode, hosted by Mike Procee, we dive into the world of corporate innovation with Shannon Phillips, co-founder of the Calgary Innovation Peer Forum. Shannon shares his journey from biomedical science to organizational behavior, and how he's helping large companies foster a culture of innovation.Tune in to learn about the power of creating a supportive community for corporate innovators, and how to empower your employees to drive meaningful change. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host:  Mike Procee is an entrepreneur, facilitator, innovator and problem solver. Working in the Calgary Energy Sector, Mike strives to build the innovation ecosystem and community. From his volunteer position on the Strategic Capability Network, where he founded the Calgary Innovation Peer Forum, to pursuing his DBA in Winter 2024, focused on innovation, Mike is pushing the thinking on what it means to be a corporate innovation practitioner.  Guest: Shannon Phillips with a Bachelor of Biomedical Science, thinks like a scientist to better understand human behavior and decision making.  He's your go-to for innovation management, organizational change management and organizational behavior, strategic planning, and innovation. He's also trained in different psychology concepts, such as behavioral psychology, emotional intelligence, and personality psychology.    Shannon loves thinking outside the box and challenging others to do so. He's people-focused and is always trying to understand why people do what they do. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Unbounded Thinking  Innovation Peer Forum  Show Quotes: "Large organizations are already innovating, but what we are talking about here is how they can put a framework around their innovation to increase the speed and the efficiency of their innovation programs." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In our latest episode, Peter Beaudoin sits down with experienced entrepreneur and sales expert Craig Elias, who shares his insights on building effective sales capabilities for startups in the Alberta ecosystem. Craig emphasizes the importance of proactive, outbound sales efforts - not just relying on marketing. He advises startups to focus on the lean canvas model to clearly define their problem, competition, ideal customers, and unique value. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Peter Beaudoin Peter manages strategy and partnerships for an innovative alliance of energy companies committed to reducing environmental impacts through collaborative R&D efforts. Peter worked for more than 20 years in Asia building and investing in a variety of businesses. His most recent role outside of Canada was with the World Wildlife Fund, where he was the Chief Executive Officer of WWF China, based in Beijing. Prior to that, Peter lived in Hong Kong for 15 years working in the technology industry. Guest: Craig Elias is LinkedIn user number 3,956 of over a billion users and he has 10,000+ unsolicited endorsements - with over 1,000 of them for his favourite sales topic, lead generation. In both 2018 and 2019, Craig was chosen by LinkedIn as Canada's #1 B2B Sales Expert (#15 globally). Craig's first startup went from initial launch to being funded by a Tier 1 US-based Venture Capitalist and was twice named by Dow Jones as one of the 50 most promising companies in North America in less than 24 months after launching. He is a Startup Mentor for the Alchemist Accelerator in San Francisco, on an advisory board for South by Southwest (SXSW) in Austin, Texas, a mentor for Techstars in Toronto and has been a National Growth Advisor for Goldman Sachs' and Babson College's 10,000 Small Business Program in Boston. Craig is the recipient of the World Federation of Colleges and Polytechnics Gold Award of Excellence in Entrepreneurship and, for the last nine years, has been the Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Bow Valley College in downtown Calgary, where he runs Calgary's Innovation Rodeo and spearheads initiatives like 150 Startups, MVP Mondays, Tech Sales Tuesdays, and Founder Fridays to help people from all walks of life become first-time entrepreneurs. He has an Executive MBA from the University of Calgary, specializing in New Venture Creation and Technology Commercialization and a cross-disciplinary BA from the University of Western Ontario. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Lean Canvas Model 150 Startups  Show Quotes: "so I'm one of those hardcore sales guys. I'm like outbound, pick up the phone, call somebody, go get customers." "I think if you start getting traction, once you get past 10 customers, you've now got some data." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this captivating episode, we follow the remarkable journey of Melvin Adekanye, who pivoted from his childhood dream of becoming a pilot to finding success as a thriving app developer. Melvin's story is a testament to the power of serendipity and perseverance, as he navigated unexpected life changes and discovered his passion for coding. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Melvin Adekanye is a testament to the power of serendipity and perseverance. Born in Nigeria, his initial dream of becoming a pilot was redirected when his family moved to Canada. A chance encounter with a friend hacking websites sparked his interest in coding, leading him to create a YouTube channel where he shared tutorial videos and built a following of aspiring coders. This small decision profoundly impacted his life, transitioning him from a childhood dream to a successful career as a tech innovator. Melvin is now the founder of the Jam app, a platform revolutionizing networking through unique features like "Jam Bingo" that foster authentic in-person connections. With a team of marketing interns and a new developer from Brazil, Melvin is expanding Jam's reach across Canada, emphasizing the importance of leveraging existing connections and resources. His journey highlights the significance of perseverance, creative thinking, and the impact of seemingly small decisions on achieving great accomplishments. Show Links: Jam The Social App  Melvin's YouTube Channel Show Quotes: "I called my mom and I was like, Jam just made it's first buck" "We thought, why don't we create a situation where people are forced to be in networking situations"   Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Mario León y León, a finance professional from Peru, shares his journey to Canada and his passion for supporting startups and entrepreneurs. With a background in corporate finance, micro-lending, and small business lending, Mario found himself drawn to the vibrant startup ecosystem in Canada. He has leveraged his expertise to coach entrepreneurs on financial best practices, helping them navigate the challenges of building a successful business. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Mario León y León Specialized in risk and finance, Mario has been evaluating enterprises—from corporate to small and micro—to help them access credit. He has also worked for several government enterprises to assist low-income families in gaining access to housing and agricultural resources. Now in Calgary with his family, as his wife is studying, Mario aims to contribute to the startup finance industry by increasing the level of success in their growth path and reducing their risk perception. He enjoys singing whenever he gets the chance and meeting different people to understand their cultures. Mario is passionate about learning more about the future of humankind and how technology can support this journey. Show Links: Startup Weekend Calgary  Show Quotes: "It's like giving a very little small amount of money with high interest because of the amount. But at the end, you foster people to grow"   Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Mike Procee believes in the necessity for large organizations to innovate like startups by collaborating with the startup community. He emphasizes the importance of building a strong culture of innovation across organizations, cautioning against isolated "innovation teams" and advocating for a more integrated approach. Mike highlights the value of leveraging existing research, external partnerships, and community engagement to foster innovation. Additionally, he shares insights on maintaining psychological safety and a team-oriented mindset to navigate the complexities of corporate innovation. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Mike Procee is an entrepreneur, intrapreneur, board member of SCN, and a corporate innovator. Pursuing his DBA with a focus on Innovation within large organizations, while having founded the Calgary Innovation Peer Forum, Mike Procee aims to build the innovation ecosystem in Calgary, and beyond.   Show Links: Strategic Capability Network - Innovation Peer Forum Creative Destruction Lab Rockies Mount Royal University - Sessional Instructors  All of Mike's episodes so far: E274:Navigating Innovation in Highly Regulated Sectors: Lessons from a Corporate Innovation Expert E269:Fostering Community Innovation: Lessons from Corporate and Grassroots Approaches E268:The Challenger Mindset: Unlocking Innovation Through Collaboration E267:Breaking Records, Changing Lives: The Inspiring Journey of the Hockey Marathon for the Kids E266:Courageous Leadership in Energy Transition: Embracing Discomfort for Impactful Change E264:How To Disrupt An Industry E262:Unlocking Corporate Innovation: A Deep Dive with ChatGPT (Voiced by Ken Cameron) E252:Mike Procee Hosts Francisco Peschiera (Bain & Company) on the LIBI Podcast E246:Mike Procee Hosts Oleks Osiyevskyy (University of Calgary) on the LIBI Podcast E244:Mike Procee Hosts Alexander Osterwalder (Strategyzer) on the LIBI Podcast E240:Mike Procee Hosts Esther Gons (GroundControl) on the LIBI Podcast E235:Mike Procee Hosts Gray Somerville (LaunchPath) on the LIBI Podcast  Show Quotes: "Nobody wants to be the next Kodak or Blockbuster. I'm sure we've all heard those examples. So I started focusing around that." "We want to see people act like owners. So definitely the term intrapreneur is resonating right now"   Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

How can entrepreneurs get noticed and get the recognition they deserve? On the episode we explore with Jim James, the founder of the UnNoticed Entrepreneur, some of the marketing and communications tools and strategies available to help entrepreneurs to get noticed. For those interested in making podcasting part of your business strategy, here is a discount coupon for Jim's podcast course:  https://www.jimajames.com/gifts  Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Peter Beaudoin Peter manages strategy and partnerships for an innovative alliance of energy companies committed to reducing environmental impacts through collaborative R&D efforts. Peter worked for more than 20 years in Asia building and investing in a variety of businesses. His most recent role outside of Canada was with the World Wildlife Fund, where he was the Chief Executive Officer of WWF China, based in Beijing. Prior to that, Peter lived in Hong Kong for 15 years working in the technology industry. Guest: Jim James has built businesses from a suitcase over the past 25 years using public relations. He started EastWest Public Relations in 1995 and has opened offices in Singapore, China, India, and the UK, serving over 500 clients. In China, Jim set up the business as the official importer of Morgan Motor Company sports cars, held the position of interim CEO of Lotus, was the founding president of the EO Network Beijing Chapter, established the British Business Awards, and was the vice chair of the Chamber of Commerce. He returned to the UK in 2019 and hosts The Unnoticed Entrepreneur podcast, is a published author under Wiley (NYSE:WLY), and is a coach to young, up and coming entrepreneurs. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Unnoticed Entrepreneur Podcast Jim's podcast course Show Quotes: "AI (artificial Intelligence) gives the entrepreneur super powers" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Join Mike Procee interviews Zoe Harrison, a seasoned corporate innovation expert. Zoe shares insights on driving innovation within highly regulated industries like banking and insurance. Despite the perception that these legacy organizations struggle with innovation, Zoe has navigated the complexities of fostering change in risk-averse environments for nearly 20 years across Canada, the UK, and Scandinavia. The discussion highlights the challenges of innovating in highly regulated sectors, where organizational structures, cultural attitudes, and a perceived need for stability often act as barriers to change. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host:  Mike Procee is an entrepreneur, facilitator, innovator and problem solver. Working in the Calgary Energy Sector, Mike strives to build the innovation ecosystem and community. From his volunteer position on the Strategic Capability Network, where he founded the Calgary Innovation Peer Forum, to pursuing his DBA in Winter 2024, focused on innovation, Mike is pushing the thinking on what it means to be a corporate innovation practitioner.  Guest: Zoe Harrison is a corporate board director and innovation strategist. She has global experience working with major financial institutions. She has made her home in Alberta and is committed to growing the local innovation community and creating space for people of all backgrounds to innovate. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Innovation Management Show Quotes: "These cultures in these large companies there is a lot of structure and bureaucracy that's built up over time, and it's what perceived as keeping things stable" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Since we don't actually have an episode of the LIBI podcast for you this week, we decided to refer you to an incredibly inspiring episode of the Bruce Lee podcast titled: "Flowing with Sifu Singh"  Sifu Singh is a Martial Artist, Philosopher, Keynote Speaker, Author and High-Performance Coach. Sifu Singh teaches elite audiences and organizations "How to Master Their Center and Flow in Chaos”. Listen in on how chaos informed Sifu Singh's life path and led him to learn peacefulness and healing in the face of his inner conflict!   Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Show Links: The Bruce Lee Podcast    Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Richard Campbell, the founder of 10 Adventures, shares his entrepreneurial journey of turning his passion for hiking into a successful travel tech platform and podcast. After a career in startups, he created 10 Hikes, showcasing his favorite hiking trails, which organically grew into a business offering custom and private travel experiences with vetted local guides.  We also discuss the importance of hiring and retaining top talent, particularly in knowledge-based organizations, and the value of job simulations as a more effective hiring tool than relying solely on resumes and credentials. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Richard Campbell is the founder and CEO of 10Adventures, a platform to book customizable and private active vacations. With trips in 85+ countries and travellers from 35+ countries, 10Adventures is a global platform that enables people to create meaningful travel experiences with the people that matter most in their lives. These shared experiences end up as the photos on their walls, the stories that are told at family reunions, and the memories that last a lifetime.  Richard has spent his 25-year career in high-growth start-ups and scale-ups, having worked across three continents, and worked in English, French, and Spanish.  In addition, Richard is an adventure traveler himself, and now spends his weekends exploring the Rocky Mountains with his wife and 3 children.   Show Links: 10 Adventures Sloan Fellowship London Business School  Show Quotes: "And so it's like we discovered this little pot of gold that none of our competitors were looking for." "You test everybody. And then you interview the people who can do the job, which means you become way more diverse and remove almost all the bias out of the hiring process."   Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this episode, Keegan Dargie shares his fascinating journey from a sales professional to an A.I. enthusiast and expert. Despite having no formal background in A.I., Keegan's curiosity and passion for understanding technology led him to dive into programming and explore the power of large language models like GPT-3. Keegan discusses how he leveraged A.I. technologies to solve real-world business problems, showcasing the potential of A.I. in automating tasks and providing creative solutions Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Keegan Dargie is genuinely enthusiastic about crafting technological solutions that drive organizational growth through automation and Artificial Intelligence. Taking the lead in developing tools using machine learning and LLM, he swiftly engineers automation processes to streamline manual tasks and boost efficiency. Keegan's track record speaks volumes about his achievements, fueled by his penchant for creative thinking, adept problem-solving skills, and friendly organizational approach.   Show Links: OpenAI  TheKitchen.ai DevinAI Perplexity ChatGPT Midjourney LeonardoAI   Sora Suno.com NVIDIA  Show Quotes: "... agents is a little bit different, because you're not trying to solve the problem, you're basically just creating the people who can solve the problem, and then giving them the resources to do it." "A.I. is a custom tutor for any subject that you want." "if anybody gets anything from this episode, I want to just let people know that if you have questions about anything in the world, as little as like, how does an ant colony work? Or how does a jet plane work or anything you can just ask these A.I. systems and it'll give you a pretty good answer. A lot of the time, fairly accurate as well, you know the ability to get knowledge is just so great now where you can just learn anything." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this episode, host Peter Beaudoin interviews Sheldon Brow, CEO and founder of Pocket Finance, a fintech company that helps users build their financial advisor network. Pocket Finance is a dual platform serving clients and financial professionals. It aims to streamline the process of finding trusted advisors by giving clients quick access and allowing advisors to effectively manage client relationships Hear the value of having a collaborative network of financial advisors to provide holistic advice. Knowing that this level of nuanced advice cannot be replicated by technology alone, which highlights the continued relevance of human advisors. Sheldon shares the growth journey of his startup, founded in 2019, including participating in pitch contests, accelerators, and moving to Calgary's tech hub He recently completed the Catalyzer program, which helped refine the business focus and connect with mentors and investors. Sheldon is now looking to raise funds to capitalize on their advisor network and build a trusted ecosystem around clients. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Peter Beaudoin Peter manages strategy and partnerships for an innovative alliance of energy companies committed to reducing environmental impacts through collaborative R&D efforts. Peter worked for more than 20 years in Asia building and investing in a variety of businesses. His most recent role outside of Canada was with the World Wildlife Fund, where he was the Chief Executive Officer of WWF China, based in Beijing. Prior to that, Peter lived in Hong Kong for 15 years working in the technology industry. Guest: Sheldon Brow's background as a fisherman's son laid the foundation for his strong work ethic, which he has carried into his role as founder of Pocket Finance. With over 15 years in major banks and as an entrepreneur, he has a strong grasp of the financial sector's challenges and opportunities. At Pocket Finance, Sheldon is dedicated to improving the tools that financial professionals use to engage with clients, emphasizing the importance of trust, efficiency, and collaborative teamwork. His goal is to simplify financial planning, making it more intuitive and connected, thus enabling advisors to deliver personalized, high-quality advice more effectively and strengthen relationships in the finance industry. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Pocket Finance Platform Calgary Catalyser  Show Quotes: "Because we go through these dating processes with our institutions, with our professionals that we deal with individually. And there's so many, so many stories about that. It's about trust. It's about trust first, more than anything for the client." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this episode, Nathan Clausen, the Director of Continuous Improvement at Trimac Transportation and founder of Innovate Cochrane, shares his insights on fostering community innovation. Key highlights: - Nathan founded Innovate Cochrane to identify and address local needs through grassroots innovation, inspired by his passion for community involvement. - The episode discusses the differences between corporate innovation (often top-down) and community innovation (voluntary, grassroots participation) Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host:  Mike Procee is an entrepreneur, facilitator, innovator and problem solver. Working in the Calgary Energy Sector, Mike strives to build the innovation ecosystem and community. From his volunteer position on the Strategic Capability Network, where he founded the Calgary Innovation Peer Forum, to pursuing his DBA in Winter 2024, focused on innovation, Mike is pushing the thinking on what it means to be a corporate innovation practitioner.  Guest: Nathan Klassen is a corporate innovator by day and a personal & community innovator all the time. With a professional background in continuous improvement, change management and organizational transformation, he brought this personal wiring and toolkit into the community arena, co-founding Innovate Cochrane - a community-initiated non-profit committed to raising and releasing innovation capacity to benefit those in Cochrane, Alberta and beyond. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Innovate Cochrane Show Quotes: "My curiosity around Communication innovation started with continuous improvement and lean, the toolkits we roll out at a company level, but these could also be useful to communities" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Join Mike Procee as he hosts Saar Ben-Attar to discuss his new book, "Challengers: How a New Breed of Leaders Collaborates and Wins in a Hyper Competitive World".  As we shift ever more into a fast-changing, hyper-competitive economy, so does the organizing logic of our organizations must change, to outperform and sustain optimal performance. We are moving from clearly defined industry boundaries to porous borders, where new and emerging opportunity fields are found. There is a change from hierarchical organizational decision-making to autonomous networks that quickly solve challenges and scale new solutions.   In our conversation we explore: What is a “Challenger” mindset? What areas/organizations should not be challengers? What are the key traits required to be a challenger? and more! Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host:  Mike Procee is an entrepreneur, facilitator, innovator and problem solver. Working in the Calgary Energy Sector, Mike strives to build the innovation ecosystem and community. From his volunteer position on the Strategic Capability Network, where he founded the Calgary Innovation Peer Forum, to pursuing his DBA in Winter 2024, focused on innovation, Mike is pushing the thinking on what it means to be a corporate innovation practitioner.  Guest: Saar Ben-Attar is the founder of Ascent Growth Partners, a specialist advisory and consulting firm with offices in Singapore and South Africa. For the past 20 years, Saar has been working with clients to reach their growth aspirations, in a rapidly changing environment, spanning North America, Europe, SE Asia, the Middle East and Africa, with particular focus on the Resources & Energy, Telecoms and Financial Services sectors. Saar works with his clients to frame their strategic challenges, examine leadership mindset and develop the practical skills needed to transform their organizations into more adaptive and future-ready businesses.  He is a certified strategy practitioner, by the Association of Strategic Planning in the US and has attained his executive coaching qualification from Inner Life Skills International in 2010. ILS holds the highest level of international accreditation (ACTP) from the International Coaching Federation (ICF), for its coach training qualification program. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Challengers: How a New Breed of Leaders Collaborates and Wins in a Hyper Competitive World  Show Quotes: "I wouldn't say there are areas in which absolutely there are not circumstance we should not challenge, however there are certainly areas where one needs to do this with absolute caution" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan