Our Work with Pavan Sidhu

Today the guest on Our Work Podcast is James Graham, founder of Scalify OS, where he works with founders to help them become high-performing CEOs and scale their businesses intentionally and sustainably.This is a topic that nearly every founder and business leader wrestles with at some point: how to grow—and more importantly, how to scale—your business without chaos. James brings a unique blend of strategic insight and practical know-how. He's a certified coach, holds an MBA from the Ivey School of Business, and has a certification in Artificial Intelligence from MIT. His work focuses on leadership, systems, and the kind of strategy that doesn't just grow businesses—it transforms them.We're going to unpack the real-world considerations around growth:Why some businesses scale to sell, while others scale to surviveHow to assess your organization's readiness for growthWhat it takes to build a leadership team that can truly drive scaleAnd the common mistakes that sabotage scale-ups before they even beginSo whether you're a founder looking to boost valuation, a CEO trying to rally your team around a bold new vision, or a leader navigating the messy middle of scaling, this episode will give you the clarity—and the tactics—you need.Filmed: April 2025Note: The ideas shared here are my own and may not necessarily reflect the views of any organization I am affiliated with. Please extend the same consideration to my guests.

In this episode, we sit down with Tom Boehm, president and co-founder of Team Power Solutions and Rayhawk. Tom is a leader who not only values people but has built a thriving business by putting them at the center of his vision.He shares the journey of founding and growing Team Power Solutions, the leadership strategies that have set the company apart, and the forward-thinking ownership model that has fueled long-term success.Tom also opens up about his biggest leadership lesson—failing to anticipate an economic downturn—and how it reshaped his approach to business.Beyond the boardroom, Tom discusses his philosophy on change, his unwavering commitment to his family, and how he defies industry norms by prioritizing work-life balance. He also reflects on the role of faith in his life and the drive that keeps him moving forward.Join us for an inspiring conversation on leadership, resilience, and building a business—and a life—with purpose.Filmed: February 2025Note: The ideas shared here are my own and may not necessarily reflect the views of any organization I am affiliated with. Please extend the same consideration to my guests.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with my friend Bobby Stewart, CEO of Breck Construction, a Saskatoon-based commercial and heavy industrial contractor with projects spanning across Canada. Bobby is reshaping the construction industry as she leads one of the few women-owned businesses in this space. Bobby is an innovative, diverse leader known for her ability to build strong teams and deliver results. Beyond her role at Breck, she serves on several boards, including the Saskatchewan Industrial and Mining Suppliers Association (SIMSA), where she is set to take on the role of incoming Vice-Chair.During our conversation, we explored a range of insightful topics:The strategic decision to transition Breck into a woman-majority owned and led business.Breck's growth from a scaffolding services company to a multi-trade construction powerhouse.The importance of selecting the right partner for women aiming to build impactful careers.Bobby's thoughts on her responsibility in advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in a male-dominated industry.Our shared frustrations around the pushback on EDI/DEI efforts in the U.S. today.The value of trade associations and the importance of having a solid value proposition.This episode is packed with wisdom, leadership insights, and inspiration, particularly for those passionate about innovation, diversity, and making an impact in business.Filmed: January 2025Note: The ideas shared here are my own and may not necessarily reflect the views of any organization I am affiliated with. Please extend the same consideration to my guests.

My guest for this episode is Gregg Bamford—a dedicated real estate professional with a deep passion for building stronger communities.Gregg opens up about his journey as a young man with ADHD, searching for his place in the world. Through these challenges, he developed a profound sense of empathy and compassion—qualities that now fuel his commitment to giving back.As the co-founder of One Small Step, Gregg helps bridge the gap between local charities and individuals or organizations eager to make a difference. This online platform makes it easier than ever to support the causes that matter most in your community.In our conversation, Gregg shares a powerful experience—spending time living with homelessness while raising funds for Sanctum 1.5. This eye-opening challenge reinforced his belief that cities must be more connected to their local charities.Our discussion left me reflecting on how I can make more time to support the community I call home. I hope it does the same for you.Filmed: January 2025Note: The ideas shared here are my own and may not necessarily reflect the views of any organization I am affiliated with. Please extend the same consideration to my guests.

Miriam Alden is a true powerhouse, radiating creativity and authenticity in everything she does—qualities that are deeply reflected in her fashion brand, Brunette the Label. As the founder and creative director of this widely recognized Canadian brand, Miriam's vision and genuine approach have left a lasting impact on the fashion industry.Her trademarked mantra, 'Babes Supporting Babes,' exemplifies her commitment to building a community rooted in empowerment and collaboration, setting her apart as a leader and innovator.In our conversation, we delve into:Her entrepreneurial journey and the inspiration behind Brunette the Label.Navigating business and motherhood, including the profound shifts and insights brought by this life transition.Her dreams for the future, where her business and family life intersect with purpose and passion.Leadership and mindset, as she shares her thoughtful approach to intentional leadership.What truly stands out about Miriam is her unique perspective on both life and business. Her authentic and inspiring mindset offers a refreshing take on entrepreneurship, making her a remarkable voice in today's ever-evolving world of fashion and creativity.Filmed: September 2024Note: The ideas shared here are my own and may not necessarily reflect the views of any organization I am affiliated with. Please extend the same consideration to my guests.

My guest for this episode is Dr. Francis Gatt, a highly skilled acupuncturist and Doctor of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).TCM is one of the most transformative tools in my wellness arsenal, and in this conversation, we explore its potential.Francis shares:The foundational principles of balance acupuncture and its role in restoring harmony.The intersection of Eastern and Western medicine and how they complement each other. The healing capabilities of herbal medicine in promoting overall health.The importance of protein and other essential nutrients in maintaining well-being.Common dietary mistakes from a TCM perspective and how to avoid them.The causes, impacts, and treatment of trauma and addiction-related conditions through the lens of TCM.Dr. Gatt's perspective offers insights for anyone interested in holistic health, addressing the root causes of physical and emotional imbalances, and exploring pathways to healing. Whether you're curious about holistic health or seeking solutions to real-life struggles, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable insights. Filmed: September 2024Note: The ideas shared here are my own and may not necessarily reflect the views of any organization I am affiliated with. Please extend the same consideration to my guests.

I'm thrilled to kick off Season two with my first guest: Jared Peterson, the visionary CEO and co-founder of Peter Lucas Project Management, a Saskatoon-based company setting the gold standard in project delivery.Jared is someone who sees life and business through a refreshingly unique lens. He's one of the most limitless thinkers I've ever met, always seeking growth and innovation in places where most people might feel uneasy. For Jared, challenges are opportunities to push boundaries, expand horizons, and create something new.This conversation is so rich that we've split it into two parts—though they flow seamlessly into one another. In the first part, we dive into Peter Lucas Project Management and Jared's approach to leadership and entrepreneurship. The second part takes us into Jared's thoughts on travel, creativity, and the deep importance of family.Part Two Highlights:How travel can profoundly expand your perspective.The transformative value of children experiencing travel, new cultures, and people.Making decisions about how we spend our time in alignment with our core values and priorities.Filmed: November 2024Note: The ideas shared here are my own and may not necessarily reflect the views of any organization I am affiliated with. Please extend the same consideration to my guests.

I'm thrilled to kick off Season 2 with my first guest: Jared Peterson, the visionary CEO and co-founder of Peter Lucas Project Management, a Saskatoon-based company setting the gold standard in project delivery.Jared is someone who sees life and business through a refreshingly unique lens. He's one of the most limitless thinkers I've ever met, always seeking growth and innovation in places where most people might feel discomfort. For Jared, challenges are opportunities to push boundaries, expand horizons, and create something new.This conversation is so rich that we've split it into two parts—though they flow seamlessly into one another. In the first part, we dive into Peter Lucas Project Management and Jared's approach to leadership and entrepreneurship. The second part takes us into Jared's thoughts on travel, creativity, and the deep importance of family.Part One Highlights:Living with intention: Jared's journey to becoming an entrepreneur.The choice between fear and excitement when facing challenges.The evolution of Peter Lucas from a small startup to a thriving team of 60+ people.What truly defines successful project management.How limitless thinking unlocks solutions for today's business challenges, including inclusivity.Filmed: November 2024Note: The ideas shared here are my own and may not necessarily reflect the views of any organization I am affiliated with. Please extend the same consideration to my guests.

This episode of Our Work is a recording of a live panel discussion from a conference for the local chapter of the Project Management Institute. The theme for the day was Resilient Project Leadership: Navigating the Unknown and Thriving in Turbulent Times.The two panelists are, Jill Heinerth, underwater explorer and Leslie Doka, Director of Construction at Wright Construction.These two women are smart and fearless and have shattered glass ceilings in their own worlds and we had a great conversation about fear, resilience, leadership and projects.

The happiest people I know have faith.Sandy Semilet, the guest for this episode, is one of those people. Sandy wears many titles including entrepreneur, registered massage therapist (RMT) and coach AND what really struck me, this woman is the epitome of a matriarch. Prepare to be inspired and moved by Sandy's story and her approach to life and healing. This conversation is deep, spiritual and transformative, and I hope it will resonate with you and inspire you on your own journey, as it did me. In this episode we explore the following:Grief (as a choice)Unconditional loveSelf care and self celebrationChoosing yourself and doing the “work” will improve your life, personally and professionallyImportance of letting our children learn their lessons (the first time)All the terms that we use that may be interchangeable (god, creator, buddha, universe)Filmed: July 2024Note: All of the ideas and thoughts shared here are my own and not necessarily shared by any organization I am affiliated with. Please give my guests the same consideration.

Suzanne is back! Suzanne Anton is a leadership coach and corporate governance consultant.In our first episode together we talked about how the people doing exceptional work that is having an impact are usually the ones that are the most authentic.In this episode we explored different ideas on how anyone can become more authentic or at the very least start to notice where they are not quite in alignment. This is some of the work that Suzanne does 1:1 with her coaching clients.Some of the ideas we discussed:Is your role the right one for you? Aligned?Are you pushing yourself to become proficient in an area that is inherently a weakness?Where are you giving away your personal authority? Have you created time and space to check in with your personal authority?Importance of authentic and diverse perspectives at a leadership table.How leaders can foster authenticity amongst their team members.Filmed: May 2024Note: All of the ideas and thoughts shared here are my own and not necessarily shared by any organization I am affiliated with. Please give my guests the same consideration. 

A candid conversation about gender and work from three women who have been there. My two guests are Leslie Doka and Leena Thomas.Leslie, is the Director of Construction at Wright ConstructionLeena, a Senior Project Manager at Hatch. Leena also holds a Masters in Women's and Gender Studies.In episode 8 with Jake Stika (Next Gen Men), we discussed some of the expectations and limitations that have historically been put on men. In this episode we examine the other side of that issue and discuss how these same systems (patriarchy and capitalism) have limited and impacted women. In our conversation we discuss the following:The archaic views of women's roles shared by Harrison Butker in a commencement speech in May.What we think is important for young people to consider as they navigate balancing work and family. What organizations (specifically male dominant) can do to become more inclusive (hire and retain more diverse talent).How leaders' specific values and traits at the top have a trickle down impact on the entire organization.Please note: We did not specifically exclude other minority groups such as the indigenous and LGBTQ2S+ communities. Our focus was to share themes in our own personal experience.  Filmed June 2024Note: All of the ideas and thoughts shared here are my own and not necessarily shared by any organization I am affiliated with. Please give my guests the same consideration. 

Our guest for this episode is Ritu Malhotra, President and CEO of March Consulting.When I first met Ritu, I was initially struck by her intelligence. As we got deeper into our conversation, it became clear that her other talent, that makes her so effective, is confidence to be her authentic self.In our conversation we got into the following:A strategic planning process that is comprehensive and effectiveHow decisions made at the right time can impact on organization (diversifying into clean energy, expanding footprint to other cities/regions)Indigenous economic reconciliationRelationship based businessThe future of work (outcome based versus traditional metrics)Filmed April 2024Note: All of the ideas and thoughts shared here are my own and not necessarily shared by any organization I am affiliated with. Please give my guests the same consideration.  

Many of you appear to be navigating some foundational life changes. So am I and in this solo episode, I share my journey with navigating these big transformations.This shows up differently for everyone, but usually it starts with craving some big changes (where you live, the work that you do, the way that you show up). But in most cases you are unsure of where to start and how to determine exactly what needs to change and what that new life might look like.In this podcast I share some of the steps that helped me gain clarity at the beginning of my journey navigating this transformation.I would love to hear your experience and thoughts on this topic. Instagram: @ourworkpavanWebsite: www.pavansidhu.comLinked In: @pavan sidhu

Gender, specifically dispelling the expectations and limitations associated with gender, is work that I am passionate about. This is one of several podcasts where I explore this BIG topic. The guest for this episode, Jake Stika, is the executive director for an organization called Next Gen men whose purpose is to change the way we see, act, and think about masculinity towards a future where boys & men experience less pain, and cause less harm.We touch on the following:The impact on men of the inherited systems (behaviors and norms of the patriarchy).Masculinity is safety?Where traditional EDI efforts are working and what can improve?The limitations of traditional feminine and masculine roles.Care versus compliance focused organizations.Filmed July 2024Note: All of the ideas and thoughts shared here are my own and not necessarily shared by any organization I am affiliated with. Please give my guests the same consideration.

This is the first episode of my wellness series, which focuses on self care tools, resources and information that I have learned and put into practice in my own life and wanted to share with you.This particular conversation is focused on women's health, however the principles around resistance training, sleep and nutrition apply to everyone. Please share with all of the women in your life that could prioritize their own health a little bit more, so basically ALL of them!My guest for this episode, Marie Robertson, who runs a private boutique studio for women here in Saskatoon. (https://yxe.marierobertsonfitness.com/home)What I love about Marie's approach to training is that she creates an environment where women not only get stronger, but they become more confident, empowered, and authentic. Marie makes it so simple and focuses on the concept of self care as a mechanism to ensure that your health doesn't get in the way of life, or the experience of being yourself. We chat about so many things including:Her approach to the minimum effective doses around resistance training, sleep, nutrition and hormonal health.We SHOW not TELL our kids how to care for themselves (yet most of us take care of them before we do ourselves).WE are our own biggest roadblock.Comparing notes on some of the common differences in the way that men and women approach self care. This woman is so wise and I hope this conversation inspires you to start filling your own cup!

Send us a Text Message.My guest for this episode is Tom Ross, CEO and Co-Founder of Andgo (www.andgosystems.com).I have always found the tech world fascinating, especially software as a service (SaaS). Likely because it is so different from the businesses that I manage.In this episode, Tom shares the story of how Andgo started and evolved over the last 10+ years, including:Entrepreneurial mindsetPerspectives on remote and flexible workSolving problems and value proposition (follow the post it notes)Scaling up (40% continuous annual growth)People and process Venture capital and valuationsTowards the end, we got into some of my favorite topics, including, managing your health and energy as well as work/life balance.Filmed January 2024Note: All of the ideas and thoughts shared here are my own and are not necessarily shared by any organization I am affiliated with. Please give my guests the same consideration. 

When I had the crazy idea of starting a podcast, my friend Nikki, who is a partner in a successful multi generational local business, agreed to film a "test" episode with me.This is that conversation that we had - essentially two women who respect and adore each other talking about the following:The importance of evolution and change for continued success and longevity.Hiring good people/leaders around you to build up your capabilities and free up your time to develop the vision.How marketing went from print advertising (newspapers) to social media.Permanent impact of COVID on retail. The importance of vision and believing in yourself. For anyone who has had the immersive experience of shopping at Dutch Growers (www.dutchgrowers.com) in Saskatoon, you will appreciate hearing Nikki talk about how three generations of her family have developed this unique business. Filmed October 2023Note: All of the ideas and thoughts shared here are my own and are not necessarily shared by any organization I am affiliated with. Please give my guests the same consideration. 

I sat in so many of Shaina's spin classes over the years and had the privilege of hearing so many powerful stories that she openly shared. Shaina is strong, magnetic, smart and someone I was inspired to get to know.So, I reached out to her to talk about her path from policing to becoming an entrepreneur. But the conversation turned into so much more. It became a story about:Someone who has never allowed herself to be confined to any one occupation, role, or box (Ep. 3)The unique perspective of an indigenous women in policing and a desire to bridge these two worlds (Ep. 3&4)Her perspective on how to respond to the calls to action for both business and the public sector (Truth and Reconciliation) (Ep. 4)A deep love between mother and daughter (Ep. 4)This conversation will be split out into two parts. The first (episode 3) is her journey into starting a group of spin studios (Ryde YXE) and becoming an entrepreneur. The second one (this episode) is a very personal story about loss, truth and reconciliation and another pivot. Shaina is a mother and wife. Shaina is a co-owner of Ryde YXE, police officer, doctoral student at the University of Saskatchewan. And in her free time she works with Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT) as an innovator in residence, supporting indigenous entrepreneurs in their own journey. 

I sat in so many of Shaina's Ryde classes over the years and had the privilege of hearing so many powerful stories that she openly shared. Shaina is strong, magnetic, smart and someone I was inspired to get to know.So, I reached out to her to talk about her path from policing to becoming an entrepreneur. But the conversation turned into so much more. It became a story about:Someone who has never allowed herself to be confined to any one occupation, role, or box (Ep. 3)The unique perspective of an indigenous women in policing and a desire to bridge these two worlds (Ep. 3&4)Her perspective on how to respond to the calls to action for both business and the public sector (Truth and Reconciliation). (Ep. 4)A deep love between mother and daughter (Ep. 4)This conversation will be split out into two parts. The first (this one) is her journey into starting a group of spin studios and becoming an entrepreneur. The second one (episode 4) is a very personal story about loss, truth and reconciliation and another pivot. Shaina is a mother and wife. Shaina is a co-owner of Ryde YXE, police officer, doctoral student at the University of Saskatchewan. And in her free time she works with Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies (SIIT) as an innovator in residence, supporting indigenous entrepreneurs in their own journey. 

I reached out to Todd because of his reputation as an exceptionally effective leader. His response was this: “At my roots I am just a simple farm kid from Saskatchewan. I work hard. I treat people with respect. I am empathetic. There is zero magic to anything I bring to the leadership table.”In talking with him I realized that it is exactly his authenticity and character that makes him an exceptional leader. He genuinely cares about people and is motivated by building and developing them and as a by product, delivering exceptional results.Todd shared so much about his professional life and his work but also a “setback” which became an important redirection.I know that any company or project that has a leader like Todd, is guaranteed to be incredibly successful.Todd Steen works for Hatch as the Global Director for Potash and Saskatchewan Operations Manager.Filmed November 2023Note: All of the ideas and thoughts shared here are my own and are not necessarily shared by any organization I am affiliated with. Please give my guests the same consideration. 

Welcome to the first episode of Our Work, hosted by Suzanne Anton, leadership coach and governance consultant. In this podcast, you'll get to know a little bit about me (Pavan) and my personal journey. Including what inspired me to start this project and what I would like to accomplish with it.You will also meet Suzanne and start to hear about her passion for elevating leaders and teams in all types of organizationsIn this podcast we dive deep into topics like leadership, authenticity, parenting (a role that has been transformational for both Suzanne and I) and everything in between. Filmed April 2024Note: All of the ideas and thoughts shared here are my own and are not necessarily shared by any organization I am affiliated with. Please give my guests the same consideration. 

Welcome to Our Work with Pavan Sidhu.Our Work, is a project that has been a journey of connection and reflection that I am thrilled to finally share with all of you.  Connection: Over the years, I've encountered numerous incredible individuals making a significant impact through their work. This podcast gave me the opportunity to sit down with them and explore their journeys and the leadership they demonstrate in all areas of life. The insights and stories shared by these guests have been nothing short of inspiring. In having these conversations, I have had an opportunity to reflect.   Having spent decades in business—leading teams, driving performance, and developing strategy, the rapid pace of our industry seldom allows time for reflection. Recording this podcast offered me a chance to look back over the last 20 years, connecting the dots between successes and dissecting the failures, setting the stage for transformative change.What started as a podcast about business quickly evolved into an exploration of its core—people. Our guests share a common thread of impact and authenticity.   This podcast is for you if you're seeking inspiration and aiming to discover your authentic path of leadership, whether in your professional personal life.I sincerely hope "Our Work" reaches and resonates with everyone who needs it.Please follow this podcast and tune in to be inspired and to redefine leadership in your own authentic way.