START Podcast

Meet Chris Schmidt, the original creator of Snapchat filters and today, the CEO and Co-Founder of Pluto Ventures - a venture-backed artificial intelligence company that is leveraging the hyper-personalized online world and using our body dimensions as a crucial component to customizing goods and services. The founder, Chris Schmidt, is a pretty unique young guy. He started his first business at the age of ten. And right after university, he founded the world's first Snapchat filter company, Geofilter Studio. In this episode, CEO and Founder Chris Schmidt speaks about his innate entrepreneurial nature, how to build a strong workplace culture, and what it's like to be creating modern - some may say millennial and even Gen Z - tech solutions. Listen now online here, on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or find us on most major podcast platforms. Prefer video? Watch now on YouTube! Just search Start Canada Podcast.

Meet Amy Tung, Founder of I Am Love - a social enterprise that is constantly thinking of new and innovative ways to help our community thrive. In this episode, CEO and Founder Amy Tung speaks about her personal journey starting a social enterprise, pivoting due to Covid-19, and how her community minded focus led to genuine personal growth. If you are curious about what it's like to start a social enterprise, or have simply been dying to get to know Amy Tung, don't miss this episode of Start Canada Podcast with the founder of I Am Love! Listen now online here, on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or find us on most major podcast platforms. Prefer video? Watch now on YouTube! Just search Start Canada Podcast.

Meet Felicita Ovadje - a practicing attorney and freelance makeup artist. With an eye for excellence, she identified a gap for products designed for people of color in the North American beauty industry and decided to be that change. Founded in 2014, Felicita launched Felicheeta Artistry - pivoting in 2020 to become both an ecommerce and a brick and mortar space for customers to find makeup brands owned by people of color, created for women of all skin tones. In this episode, Felicita Ovadje speaks about the evolution of beauty products for people of color, about balancing her passions, and provides great tips (both legal and otherwise!) of things to consider when starting a business. Listen now online here, on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or find us on most major podcast platforms. Prefer video? Watch now on YouTube! Just search Start Canada Podcast.

Meet Ben Buckwold, CEO and Founder of ESL Library - a company empowering language teachers to teach their best class, with exceptional content and a custom platform used by language teachers in more than 10,000 schools around the world. In this episode of Start Canada Podcast, Ben speaks about being the first ESL learning app in the world, knowing when to pivot, and the importance of building great content. From the staff side, we get tips for building a great team, remote morale boosting, and the positive people effects of giving back to the community. If you are building an online resource based business, or you want to pivot to one, be sure to tune in to this episode of Start Canada Podcast with the founder of ESL Library! If you prefer video format, watch now on YouTube or take us with you as you go by Subscribing Now wherever you get your podcasts.

Meet David Dang, Social Media and Digital Marketing Expert whose Instagram business page EntrepreneurshipFacts has over 2.2M followers. In this episode, we cover how to use social media to kick start a business or test a new idea, how to build an audience on Instagram, and how to stay motivated and on track. If you are ready to take your social media to the next level, be sure to catch this episode of Start Canada Podcast with David Dang! Listen now online here, on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or find us on most major podcast platforms. Prefer video? Watch now on YouTube! Just search Start Canada Podcast.

Meet Katie Hartle, Founder and CEO of FriendMatch - a unique company that is exactly as it sounds - think online dating but strictly for platonic friendships instead. In a time where loneliness is at an all-time high, Katie has built a community over 100 countries to help tackle just this, answering the question "How to Make Friends" for more than 5 million people - and counting. In this episode, we cover the human side of business, how to build a lean start-up, tips for growing a community, and so much more. If you have an idea you believe in - be sure to catch this episode to be inspired to get started today! Listen now online here, on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or find us on most major podcast platforms. Prefer video? Watch now on YouTube! Just search Start Canada Podcast.

Meet Cheryl Zealand, Founder and CEO of Cranked Energy Bars - a protein bar company carried by over 100 Manitoba retailers and set for national expansion. If you are starting a food based business from your home kitchen and want to learn to build your brand - tune in to this episode for tips from Cranked Energy Bars! Listen now online here, on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or find us on most major podcast platforms. Prefer video? Watch now on YouTube! Just search Start Canada Podcast.

Meet Glenda and Rory Hart, Co-Founders of the Canadian Birch Company. They create products from organic birch sap and craft the world’s finest pure birch syrup. In this episode, Host Margaux Miller taps into the ins and outs of the birch syrup industry, inquiring into dealing with food products and getting into retailers, and garners advice for working with programs like the Scotiabank Women Initiative. If you are starting a food based business and you want to skip some hurdles of learning the hard way - then be sure to catch this episode! If you prefer video format, watch now on YouTube or take us with you as you go by Subscribing Now wherever you get your podcasts.

Meet Anthony Halyckyj, the Founder of 204 Meal Prep - a subscription box meal kit company that delivers convenient meal options direct to your door. In our conversation, Anthony shares with us the hurdles of the subscription business model, the experience of purchasing his main competitor, and even some tips for eating healthy. If you’ve ever wanted to know the ins and outs of a subscription box meal prep company - then this episode is for you! Watch on YouTube or take us with you as you go by Subscribing Now wherever you get your podcasts.

Meet Michelle and Caroline, two business leaders from either side of the entrepreneurship coin. From the start-up side, Michelle Leona is the Owner and Head Brewer of Wolseley Kombucha - a women-owned and operated business kombucha brewery. From the support side, Caroline Ksiazek, the Regional Lead in the heart of Canada for Futurpreneur - Canada’s only national, non-profit organization that provides financing, mentoring and support tools to aspiring business owners aged 18 to 39. Our guests provide great tips on how to leverage the power of your network and use mentorship to get ahead, as well as tips for securing grants and funding for your Canadian business. If you prefer video format, watch now on YouTube or take us with you as you go by Subscribing Now wherever you get your podcasts.

Meet Marshall Ring, Founder and CEO of the Manitoba Technology Accelerator - an organization that helps to commercialize disruptive technologies into businesses ready to scale nationally and internationally. Our host picks Marshall’s brain on what it’s like to grow a start-up ecosystem, some exciting success stories from the Canadian prairies, and some really important insight advice for anyone looking to participate in an accelerator. If you’re curious about what it takes to start your own start-up hub or if you are looking to join one - then don’t miss this episode! If you prefer video format, watch now on YouTube or take us with you as you go by Subscribing Now wherever you get your podcasts.

Featuring Darcy Ataman, the founder and CEO of Make Music Matter - an organization using a unique form of music therapy to help survivors of conflict and trauma. Darcy shares about his background as a music producer, what it’s like to start an international charity from the heart of Canada, and how his innovative program created and scaled in partnership with Nobel Laureate Dr. Denis Mukwege now operates in 8 countries around the world. If you want to learn about starting an international charity, or the possibilities of using music for healing, then don’t miss this episode. For full show notes visit www.StartPodcast.ca and Subscribe Now wherever you get your podcasts. Note: this episode contains stories about conflict and post-conflict zones and topics may be sensitive for some listeners.

Kicking off season 3, we speak to Catherine Metrycki, Founder of Callia Flowers. We cover how she launched and grew her tech business which has reimagined the way we send flowers. We discuss her deal on Dragons Den with Manjit Minhas, which has since provided the support necessary for Callia to be able to open all across Eastern Canada (to be now in 55 cities). And Catherine shares with us some of her experiences in improving customer service and mental health as a leader. If you’ve ever wondered how to scale a business, or whether Dragons Den is worth it - than this episode is for you! For full show notes and resources directly from our guests, visit www.StartPodcast.ca and Subscribe Now to never miss an episode.

Watch Episode 26 of Start Podcast featuring Denis Devigne & Kyle Sierens, the founders of VidDay - a web app business that creates personalized video montages as gifts.

This week on Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller interviews Denis Devigne and Kyle Sierens, Co-Founders of VidDay - a web app business that creates personalized video montages as gifts. Since 2015, their app has been used in over 185 countries to celebrate all special occasions. Built from the start as a social enterprise, they give back to the world by donating to different not-for-profits with every video made. These two founders discuss the process of developing a custom app, growing a scalable online business, and working in the online gifting industry. On a personal level, they share some lessons from the rapid growth learning curve they experienced during Covid-19, and how they set up to build a social enterprise from day one. If you’ve considered developing an app business, check out this episode for first-hand tips! For full show notes and resources directly from our guests, visit www.StartPodcast.ca, and Subscribe Now wherever you’re listening to never miss an episode. ---------   In This Episode, You Will Learn: 0:30 to 4:50     The Story of VidDay   4:51 to 7:14      User Experience (UX) 7:15 to 10:29   Role of CoFounders 10:30 to 12:25 Work Travel Freedom as a Business Owner 12:26 to 19:33 Developing a Custom App 19:34 to 22:07 Data Security 22:08 to 24:14 The Online Gifting Industry 24:15 to 26:30 SPEED ROUND 27:35 to 34:20 How Covid-19 Impacted Their Web App Business 32:00 to 34:19 Rapid Growth Learning Curve 34:20 to 38:56 Building a Social Enterprise 42:19 to 45:03 The Canadian Prairie Ecosystem 45:25 to 49:18  The Future of VidDay and Their Recommended Resources   ---------               Follow VidDay – And Let Them Know What You Learned From This Episode: vidday.com Facebook: @ViddayGift Instagram: @viddaygift YouTube: @VidDay Twitter: @viddaygift Pinterest: @VidDay   Follow Start Podcast – And Share What You Learned From This Episode: startpodcast.ca Facebook: @StartPodcast Instagram: @StartPodcast LinkedIn: @StartPodcast Twitter: @MargauxAMiller YouTube: @MargauxMiller   Find Your Start - Episode Resources: Jobs with VidDay: vidday.com/careers Gary Vaynerchuk (influencer) Motivation – Daily Quotes (app)

Episode 25 of Start Canada Podcast features Matt Schaubroeck and Amanda San Filippo, Co-Founders of ioAirFlow – a software company focused on ‘green’ commercial buildings. They discuss the experience of changing co-founders, finding personal balance in start-up life, and the entrepreneurial impacts of Covid-19. For full show notes and resources directly from our guests, visit www.StartPodcast.ca, and Subscribe Now wherever you’re listening to never miss an episode.

This week on Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller interviews Matt Schaubroeck and Amanda San Filippo, Co-Founders of ioAirFlow - a software company focused on ‘green’ commercial buildings. These two founders discuss defining your business, Winnipeg as a test market, and the entrepreneurial impacts of Covid-19. On a personal level, they describe the experience of changing co-founders, finding personal balance in start-up life, and coping with anxiety. If you are considering taking the leap into entrepreneurship, then be sure to check out this episode. For full show notes and resources directly from our guests, visit www.StartPodcast.ca, and Subscribe Now wherever you’re listening to never miss an episode.   ---------   In This Episode, You Will Learn: 0:30 to 4:49     The Story of ioAirFlow 4:50 to 5:35     Defining Your Business 5:36 to 9:29     Changing Co-Founders 9:30 to 12:29   Taking the Leap into Start-Up Life 12:30 to 15:54 Clean Tech and the Green Building Industry  15:55 to 17:54 Grant Funding   17:55 to 22:45 Accelerators 22:46 to 25:56 SPEED ROUND 26:15 to 28:00 Finding Personal Balance as a Founder 28:01 to 32:48 Coping with Anxiety and Procrastination 32:49 to 40:59 Covid-19 Impacts on Business 41:00 to 43:30 Winnipeg as a Test Market and Start-Up Community             43:31 to 46:30 Personal Community Involvement 46:31 to 49:45 The Future of ioAirFlow and Their Recommended Resources   ---------               Follow ioAirFlow – And Let Them Know What You Learned From This Episode: ioairflow.com LinkedIn @ioAirFlow Twitter @ioairflow_inc   Follow Start Podcast – And Share What You Learned From This Episode: startpodcast.ca Facebook: @StartPodcast Instagram: @StartPodcast LinkedIn: @StartPodcast Twitter: @MargauxAMiller YouTube: @MargauxMiller   Find Your Start - Episode Resources: NRC IRAP Funding Mitacs Funding Foresight CAC - Accelerator for Clean Tech Companies MARS Book - Technology: Machine Platform Crowd Book - Fiction: Us Conductors by Sean Michaels

Episode 24 of Start Podcast features Kailey Lefko and Josianne Barnabé, Co-Founders of Educalme Inc. – creators of a series of tools to help teachers bring mindfulness and social-emotional learning into their classrooms through a bilingual online program called Educalme Classroom.

This week on Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller interviews Kailey Lefko & Josianne Barnabé, Co-Founders of Educalme Inc. – creators of a series of tools to help teachers bring mindfulness and social-emotional learning into their classrooms through a bilingual online program called Educalme Classroom. Educlame’s two female founders explain the benefits of mindfulness for youth and adults alike, and how finding it changed their own path. They describe the experience of selling to the education market, choosing to create a bilingual resource, and overcoming ‘shiny object syndrome’ in your marketing. If you are curious about exploring mindfulness for your children, yourself, or your classroom, then this episode is for you. For full show notes and resources directly from our guests, visit www.StartPodcast.ca, and Subscribe Now wherever you’re listening to never miss an episode.   In This Episode, You Will Learn: 0:30 to 4:26     The Story of Educalme Inc. 4:27 to 8:36     Mindfulness for Youth & Teachers 8:37 to 17:55   Marketing / Selling to Educators 17:56 to 20:58 Mental Health Support During Covid-19 20:59 to 23:09 SPEED ROUND 23:17 to 25:44 Shiny Object Syndrome; Learning from Failure 25:45 to 31:24 Using Mindfulness to Overcome Stress and Grow 28:18 to 29:47 Kailey Walks You Through an Easy Mindfulness Exercise for Stress 31:25 to 37:07 Pulling a Salary and Bringing an Idea to Life 37:08 to 39:11 Women’s Enterprise Centre and Other MB Supports 39:12 to 42:10 Business Awards – Are they worth applying for? 42:11 to 44:47 Being Business Women in the Prairies 44:48 to 48:21 The Future of Educalme and Their Recommended Resources   ---------               Follow Educalme – And Let Them Know What You Learned From This Episode: educalme.com Instagram @Educalme Facebook @Educalme Twitter @Educalme Pinterest @Educalme   Follow Start Podcast – And Share What You Learned From This Episode: startpodcast.ca Facebook: @StartPodcast Instagram: @StartPodcast LinkedIn: @StartPodcast Twitter: @MargauxAMiller YouTube: @MargauxMiller   Find Your Start - Episode Resources: Shiny Object Syndrome – com Article The Balanced Educator Podcast Five Finger Breathing – Poster Notion – all-in-one workspace Book: Permission to Feel by Marc Brackett Book: The Whole-Brain Child by Dan Siegel  

Episode 23 of Start Podcast features the founders of Flipside XR - a real-time animation and XR broadcast company almost purchased by one of the Big 5.

This week on Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller interviews Lesley Klassen and John Luxford, Co-Founders of Flipside XR Inc. (once called The Campfire Union), a real-time animation and XR broadcast company - and creators of Flipside Studio, a virtual production software for animation companies. Think of it as a television studio inside of virtual reality that is used to make animated content. Flipside’s founders talk about choosing to work in a niche industry, difficulties raising capital, and managing team emotions using VR. Lesley and John share their story of almost being acquired by one of tech’s Big 5, as well as what it is like to work with major brands like VR headset manufacturer Oculus. If you are a tech start-up hoping to catch the attention of tech giants, then don’t miss this episode! For full show notes and resources directly from our guests, visit www.StartPodcast.ca, and Subscribe Now wherever you’re listening to never miss an episode. ---------- In This Episode, You Will Learn: 0:28 to 8:45                 The Story of Flipside 8:46 to 11:39               How to Work with Big Tech Companies 11:40 to 14:20             Creating Accessible Technology        14:21 to 19:06             Working in a Niche Industry – VR Animation Explained 19:15 to 24:13             Raising Capital – Why They Failed 24:14 to 28:54             Almost Being Bought by One of the Big 5 29:00 to 31:23             SPEED ROUND 31:42 to 34:06             Covid-19 Effects on XR / VR Market 34:07 to 39:54             Mental Health & Managing Emotions Using VR 39:55 to 45:17             Start-Up Competitions and Manitoba Support Agencies 45:18 to 52:40             The Future of Flipside and Their Recommended Resources   ---------               Follow Flipside – And Let Them Know What You Learned From This Episode: flipsidexr.com Instagram @FlipsideXR Facebook @FlipsideXR YouTube @FlipsideVR Twitter @FlipsideXR LinkedIn @FlipsideXR   Follow Start Podcast – And Share What You Learned From This Episode: startpodcast.ca Facebook: @StartPodcast Instagram: @StartPodcast LinkedIn: @StartPodcast Twitter: @MargauxAMiller YouTube: @MargauxMiller   Find Your Start - Episode Resources: The Big 5 Tech Companies – FAANG or FAAMG Lift’Off Venture Challenge by Innovate Manitoba (no longer operating) Y Combinator Podcast New Media Manitoba – Support for Manitoba new media companies Tech West Canada – Support for global conference access Oculus – VR headset and equipment manufacturer  

Episode 22 of Start Podcast features Mitchel Matthews, the founder of Adrenaline Offroad - a mods and accessories start-up for truck enthusiasts.

This week on Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller speaks with Mitchel Matthews, Founder of Adrenaline Offroad – started in 2017 as a mods and accessories start-up for truck enthusiasts, and since turned into a full-fledged ecommerce and lifestyle business. In this episode, Adrenaline Offroad's founder provides tips for growing a YouTube audience and navigating eCommerce sales versus being a lifestyle business. Mitchel offers advice on how to set goals and how to attack digital marketing for start-ups. If you are looking to grow your own lifestyle business focused on a niche industry or if you just love trucks and mods and want to get to know Mitchel Matthews – be sure to check out this episode! For full show notes and resources directly from our guests, visit www.StartPodcast.ca, and Subscribe Now wherever you’re listening to never miss an episode. ------------------------------------- In This Episode, You Will Learn: 0:26 to 4:43                 The Story of Adrenaline Offroad         4:44 to 7:26                 Starting a Business at 19 Yrs Old 7:27 to 8:46                 eCommerce Sales vs. Lifestyle Business on YouTube 8:47 to 10:49               How to Succeed on YouTube 10:50 to 13:37             How to Navigate Partnerships and Suppliers 13:48 to 17:09             Selling from Canada to the US – Online vs. Wholesale 17:10 to 18:48             Buying from China During Covid-19 19:45 to 21:40             Speed Round 23:00 to 25:00             Keeping It Real in Customer Service 25:05 to 27:18             Mental Health in Business – Focus on Your Goals 27:19 to 31:13             High School vs Entrepreneurial Education 31:14 to 33:27             How to Set Goals and Keep Learning 34:40 to 37:10             Digital Marketing Tips 39:30 to 41:56             Resources from Mitchel and How to Get in Touch  --------------------------------------- Follow Adrenaline Offroad – And Let Them Know What You Learned From This Episode: adrenalineoffroadoutfitters.com Instagram @AdrenalineOffroadOutfitters and @TheMitchelMatthews Facebook @AdrenalineOffroadOutfitters YouTube @MitchelMatthews   Follow Start Podcast – And Share What You Learned From This Episode: startpodcast.ca Facebook: @StartPodcast Instagram: @StartPodcast Twitter: @MargauxAMiller YouTube: @MargauxMiller   Find Your Start - Episode Resources: Book: Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert T. Kiyosaki Book: Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill Video Summary of Think and Grow Rich Book: The Secret of the Ages by Robert Collier

Episode 21 of Start Podcast features Duncan Jessiman and Polly Craik, the founders of Vexxit - an online marketplace for professional services.

This week on Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller speaks with Duncan Jessiman and Polly Craik, co-founders of Vexxit - an online marketplace that uses machine learning to match people who need professional services with experts to meet their specific needs. Duncan first founded of Exchange Income Corp, a TSX-listed public company reaching a $1B market cap. Polly founded FineLine Solutions, a firm focused on supporting not-for-profit organizations with donor retention, which after 30 years was acquired by a Nasdaq-traded company. Having worked with many professionals, these two powerhouses jumped back in to found Vexxit with the belief that there is a better way for people to vet and access trusted advice. In this episode, Duncan and Polly discuss finding your role as a leader, finding technology partners to bring your idea to life, and what it is like to start multi-generational businesses in the Canadian Prairies. If you want to learn about starting a business from two guests who have completed the full cycle from idea to acquisition and are doing it again, then this episode is for you. For full show notes and resources directly from our guests, visit www.StartPodcast.ca, and Subscribe Now wherever you’re listening to never miss an episode. In This Episode, You Will Learn: 0:26 to 6:53 The Story of Vexxit – Idea & Evolution 6:54 to 10:20 Past Experience Supporting New Tech Start-Up 10:21 to 12:45 Remote Based Teams 12:46 to 14:32 Finding Your Role as a Leader / Founder 14:33 to 16:09 Hiring for Remote Based Teams 16:10 to 18:38 Preparing and Evolving Before Launch 18:39 to 21:33 Manitoba Support System and Finding Technology Partners 21:34 to 24:56 Using Vexxit’s Matching Platform 24:57 to 26:30 Cybersecurity and Compliance 26:35 to 28:20 Diversity in AI and Machine Learning 29:40 to 30:38 Practical Advice from Duncan 30:39 to 32:56 SPEED ROUND 33:22 to 37:17 What It’s Like as a Woman and Parent in Business 39:08 to 45:00 Starting a Business in the Canadian Prairies 45:05 to 47:28 What’s Next for Vexxit & Resources from Duncan and Polly   Follow Vexxit – And Let Them Know What You Learned From This Episode: vexxit.com Facebook @Vexxit Instagram @Vexxit_ LinkedIn @Vexxit   Follow Start Podcast – And Share What You Learned From This Episode: startpodcast.ca Facebook: @StartPodcast Instagram: @StartPodcast Twitter: @MargauxAMiller   Find Your Start - Episode Resources: Manitoba Tech Ecosystem Map Business Book: The E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber – great tips for finding your place IN the business Marketing Podcasts by Jay Baer Marketing Book: YOUtility by Jay Baer Simon Sinek   Shoutouts in this Episode: Manitoba Technology Accelerator EO Winnipeg – Accelerator Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce Manitoba Chambers of Commerce Alberta Chamber of Commerce

Episode 20 of Start Podcast features Alicia Soulier, the founder of SalonScale - a bluetooth technology to allow hair salons to calculate hair color costs in real time.

This week on Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller speaks with Alicia Soulier, Founder and CEO of SalonScale Technology Inc. - a SaaS company that grew over 700% in their first year (2018) using bluetooth technology to allow hair salons to calculate hair color costs in real time. The SalonScale app tells you the exact cost of hair color being poured for every bowl mixed – filling a well-researched product market fit that Alicia identified first-hand as a salon owner. SalonScale's founder provides tips for moving quickly from idea to action, picking your business partners, and personal development as a leader. Alicia provides insightful advice on understanding when to cause action, the power of mentorship, and the importance of working on yourself. If you want the inside scoop on “how she did it” – a candid conversation with one of Canada’s most impressive health and beauty industry tech start-ups - don’t miss this episode! For full show notes and resources directly from our guests, visit www.StartPodcast.ca, and Subscribe Now wherever you’re listening to never miss an episode. In This Episode, You Will Learn: 2:06 to 6:19 The Story of SalonScale – Idea & Initial Investment 6:20 to 8:08 Tips for Picking Your Business Partners 8:09 to 9:40 Communication Skills 9:41 to 11:31 Being a “Non-Technical Founder” 11:32 to 13:00 Personal Development 13:01 to 16:30 How To Grow Once You Have Your Idea 16:31 to 18:33 The Power of Mentorship 18:34 to 22:33 Being a Female Founder in CoLabs, CoLead and CoLaunch Accelerators 22:34 to 26:53 Growth Through Product Market Fit and Leadership 27:00 to 29:16 Understanding When to Cause Action 29:17 to 31:15 SPEED ROUND 31:16 to 35:14 The Hard Truth About Entrepreneurial Life – A Story 35:15 to 36:28 Failure and the Importance of Self-Work 36:30 to 39:54 Raising Venture Capital & The Importance of Relationships with Investors 39:55 to 46:20 How SalonScale Grew During Covid-19 46:24 to 50:14 Starting a Business in the Canadian Prairies 50:15 to 53:00 What’s Next for SalonScale & Resources from Alicia Follow SalonScale – And Let Them Know What You Learned From This Episode: www.salonscale.com Facebook @SalonScale Instagram @SalonScale Pinterest @SalonScale Follow Start Podcast – And Share What You Learned From This Episode: www.startpodcast.ca Facebook: @StartPodcast Instagram: @StartPodcast Twitter: @MargauxAMiller Find Your Start - Episode Resources: SK Accelerator: CoLabs Book: The Entrepreneurial Rollercoaster by Darren Hardy STSI tax credit the51.com – Investing in Women in Tech Personal development: Tony Robbins Katherine Regnier, founder of Coconut Software Neal Dempsey, Investor in Starbucks Michelle Zatlyn, Co-Founder and COO of Cloudflare

Episode 19 of Start Podcast features Scott Russell, the founder of SolarSkyrise - a data analytics company that provides architects, engineers, and real estate owners with data to generate new revenue streams from unused vertical real estate on buildings.

This week on Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller speaks with Scott Russell, Co-Founder and CEO of SolarSkyrise, a data analytics company that provides architects, engineers, and real estate owners with data to generate new revenue streams from unused vertical real estate on buildings. SolarSkyrise's founder explains how to access funding, deal with start-up stress, and exist in the prop tech and clean tech space. Scott believes in doing strong research, knowing your strengths, and concentrating on what’s meaningful. If you want a crash course on start-up grants and accelerator programs, and you love talking new tech applications, then this episode is for you! For links to recommendations from Scott, visit www.StartPodcast.ca, and Subscribe Now to never miss an episode.   Find SolarSkyrise Online Here: https://www.solarskyrise.com/ Social Media: Facebook @SolarSkyrise Twitter @SolarSkyrise Instagram @SolarSkyrise LinkedIn @SolarSkyrise   Scott’s Recommended Resources: Book: Edward Snowden’s Permanent Record Fun TV Shows: Rick and Morty; Too Hot to Handle Clean Tech Resource: NREL - National Renewable Energy Lab Shout Out to Organizations Mentioned by Scott in this Episode: Y Combinator IRAP Funding Innovation Growth Program North Forge Technology Exchange  --------- SHOW NOTES3:13 to 4:55                Clean Tech vs. Prop Tech 5:26 to 8:14                Accelerators, Competitions, and Mentorship Programs 8:15 to 11:00              Picking a Good Team and Getting Started 11:05 to 14:52            Grant Funding; what funders are looking for and what you should look for too 15:00 to 19:32            Preparing for a Round of Seed Funding and Pitching to VCs 19:35 to 21:53            The Effects of Covid-19 on Start-Up Funding  23:14 to 24:49            SPEED ROUND 24:50 to 28:50            What It’s Like When Things Get Tough; Knowing Your Strengths 28:52 to 30:55           Running Different Businesses at the Same Time; Concentrating on What’s Meaningful  30:56 to 38:26            Dealing with Difficult Conversations and Situations as a Start-Up Founder 38:27 to 42:55            Canadian Prairies Start-Up Ecosystem 42:57 to 46:52            Myths to Being an Entrepreneur

Episode 18 of Start Podcast features Obby Khan, the founder of online marketplace GoodLocal.ca, and restaurants Shawarma Khan and Green Carrot Juice Co.

This week on Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller speaks with Obby Khan, former CFL Football player turned local business entrepreneur – founding two restaurant brands with 6 locations between Shawarma Khan Inc and Winnipeg’s first cold-pressed juice company - Green Carrot Juice Co. In his new 2020 venture, Obby co-founded the new e-commerce platform, GoodLocal. Obby explains the importance of community connections, how he launched multiple brands at once, and how football played a role in business. When discussing his ventures, Obby shares stories of feeling overwhelmed by the weight of entrepreneurship, of sacrificing relationships, and of the downside and emotions brought on by Covid-19. Obby will make you smile and reflect, and if you have a love of supporting local, this episode is for you! Listen to the full episode now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Play, or your favorite podcast platform.  For links to recommendations from Obby, visit www.StartPodcast.ca, and Subscribe Now to never miss an episode.

Episode 17 of Start Podcast features Mitch Bowler, the founder of Evolve Artist - a business that takes a unique and modern (and virtual) approach to advanced Art Education.

This week on Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller speaks with Mitch Bowler, Founder of Evolve Artist, a business that takes a unique and modern approach to Art Education - changing the way art skills are taught and delivered allowing students to develop professional level art skills in under a year – from home. With students in 37 countries, this revolutionary service allows anyone from beginners to advanced artists to remotely study the foundations of art - complete with supplies mailed to your door and virtual mentorship. All of which could not be timelier than during Covid-19. Evolve’s founder explains the joys of bootstrapping, the benefits of systems thinking, and the key of always assuming 100% responsibility. When discussing growth of the business, Mitch shares tips for keeping expenses low, breaking through, and baking in your word of mouth. If you want to simply learn how to get it done - this episode is for you! For links to recommendations from Mitch, visit www.StartPodcast.ca, and Subscribe Now to never miss an episode.

Listen to episode 16 of Get Started Podcast featuring the founder of M3 Aerial - a prairie start-up providing specialized aerial imaging services and certified training for advanced drone pilots across North, Central and South America.

This week on Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller speaks with Matt Johnson, Founder, CEO, and Pilot-In-Command of M3 Drone Training Zone. A Manitoba start-up providing specialized aerial imaging services and certified training for advanced drone pilots across North, Central and South America. Matt Johnson explains how you can first test the waters, how his army training helped him to push himself, and how to get rid of your perceived limiting factors. When discussing the growth of the business, Matt shares tips to marketing success by writing your own press releases, blogging, and SEO, as well as merging his love of drones and K-12 education. If working with drones is “up there” on your list, this episode is for you! For links to recommendations from Matt, visit www.StartPodcast.ca, and Subscribe Now to never miss an episode.

Listen to episode 15 of Get Started Podcast featuring the founder of Wingman Player Consulting - a Winnipeg-based hockey advisory service and player agency.

This week on Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller speaks with Carson Shields, founder of Wingman Player Consulting Inc. - a Winnipeg-based hockey advisory service and player agency. WPC's founder explains how to break into a competitive industry, the role of hockey agents, and the impacts of Covid-19 for professional hockey players. When discussing the business, Carson shares stories of personal sacrifice, tough player-agent conversations, and staying on top of trends. Want to know what it’s really like to work in a “dream job” as a hockey agent? This episode might surprise you! For links to recommendations from Carson, visit www.StartPodcast.ca, and Subscribe Now to never miss an episode. Find Wingman Player Consulting Inc. Online Here: wingmanplayerconsulting.com Social Media: Facebook @WingmanPlayerConsulting Twitter @wingmanpc and @carsonshields23 Instagram @wingmanplayerconsulting and @ceejshields Carson’s Recommended Resources: Book: Principles by Ray Dalio Book: Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek

Listen to episode 14 of Get Started Podcast featuring the founder of Bit Space Development Ltd - an interactive digital media studio focused on developing high quality Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality experiences.

Kicking off Season 2 of Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller speaks with Dan Blair of VR tech start-up Bit Space Development Ltd. - an interactive digital media studio focused on developing high quality Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality experiences. BSD's founder explains virtual reality, innovation during a pandemic, and helping traditional industries adopt interesting new technologies. When discussing the business, Dan shares stories of changes to the local tech and innovation ecosystem, wanting to quit your job as the founder, and hiring for personality. Ever want to learn about breaking into the XR industry? This is the episode for you! For links to recommendations from Dan, visit www.StartPodcast.ca and Subscribe Now to never miss an episode. Find Bit Space Development Ltd. Online Here: https://bitspacedevelopment.com/  Social Media: LinkedIn Bit Space Development Facebook @bitspacedevelopment Twitter @BitSpaceDevelop Instagram @bitspacedevelopment Dan’s Recommended Resources: Gimlet Media Podcast – Reply All Suggested first VR headset to purchase: Oculus Quest or Oculus Go VR arcades in Winnipeg (once distancing is lifted), ex. Portal VR

Start Podcast – Live Taping – Success on a Human Scale: Margaux Miller, Start Podcast Host, interviews founders of scaling businesses in the Canadian Prairies live at Disrupted (a Tech Manitoba conference) in Winnipeg Manitoba. This special live episode covers re-inventing the technology industry’s culture and impact by focusing on building diverse teams to scale their companies. "It’s going to come down to us; it’s what you do with the technology that matters." According to guests at the live recording of @startpodcast, there’s never been a better time to build a tech business in Manitoba—and that comes with some major responsibilities. ⠀ Wade Barnes, founder & CEO of @farmers_edge, shared his vision for the changing landscape of the agriculture in Canada and Manitoba’s opportunity to lead with tech solutions for an evolving industry. ⠀ Carly Shuler, co-founder & CEO of @hellohootreading, offered a progressive perspective on ways tech companies can re-imagine work culture to promote diversity and inclusivity. ⠀ Jay Myers, co-founder & VP of Growth @bold_commerce, was honest about the pressures and challenges of succeeding as a startup, like accepting “fail fast, fail cheap” as a necessity to keep up with the pace of change. ⠀ Chuck Loewen, founder of @obs_global, advised tech entrepreneurs to focus on running a good business beyond developing great technology.

Start Podcast – Live Taping – Success on a Human Scale: Margaux Miller, Start Podcast Host, interviews founders of scaling businesses in the Canadian Prairies live at Disrupted (a Tech Manitoba conference) in Winnipeg Manitoba. This special live episode covers re-inventing the technology industry’s culture and impact by focusing on building diverse teams to scale their companies. "It’s going to come down to us; it’s what you do with the technology that matters." According to guests at the live recording of @startpodcast, there’s never been a better time to build a tech business in Manitoba—and that comes with some major responsibilities. ⠀ Wade Barnes, founder & CEO of @farmers_edge, shared his vision for the changing landscape of the agriculture in Canada and Manitoba’s opportunity to lead with tech solutions for an evolving industry. ⠀ Carly Shuler, co-founder & CEO of @hellohootreading, offered a progressive perspective on ways tech companies can re-imagine work culture to promote diversity and inclusivity. ⠀ Jay Myers, co-founder & VP of Growth @bold_commerce, was honest about the pressures and challenges of succeeding as a startup, like accepting “fail fast, fail cheap” as a necessity to keep up with the pace of change. ⠀ Chuck Loewen, founder of @obs_global, advised tech entrepreneurs to focus on running a good business beyond developing great technology.

On episode 13 of Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller interviews Garreth Rempel of Winnipeg-based tech start-up Trainfo; a data driven company that helps reduce accidents and traffic delays at rail crossings.

This week on START Podcast, the Millers speak with Garreth Rempel of Winnipeg-based tech start-up Trainfo. Trainfo is a data driven company that helps reduce accidents and traffic delays at rail crossings. They discuss the company’s inception, pivots, funding streams and influential advisory partnerships with Christian Dandeneau, Robert Hutchison, and Peter Sweatman. Trainfo provides valuable services to drivers throughout North America, including you. Find Trainfo Online Here: www.trainfo.ca Linkedin: @TRAINFO_corp Gareth’s Other Recommended Resources: North Forge – check out Ramp Up Weekend where you can win office space for 6 months Futurpreneur – funding and support for entrepreneurial businesses across Canada  Books:  How to Fail at Almost Everything and Still Win Big, Scott Adams The Hard Thing about Hard Things, Ben Horowitz The Elegant Universe, Brian Greene

On episode 12 of Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller interviews Noah Palansky and Jordan Davis, co-founders of Taiv, about their advertising tech company that turns commercial breaks into marketing opportunities through their hardware and software ad replacement solution.

This week on START Podcast, the Millers speak with Noah Palansky and Jordan Davis, co-founders of Taiv, about their advertising tech company that turns commercial breaks into marketing opportunities through their hardware and software ad replacement solution. They discuss finding their co-founders, taking a leap of faith, and their lessons learned from failure. When it comes to starting a business, they stress how important it is to get detailed feedback at the early stages of tech development, and how perseverance and prioritization play a key role. For the best advice, listen to the full Start Podcast episode with the co-founders of MB tech company, Taiv. Find Taiv Online Here: https://taiv.tv/  Instagram: @TaivTV | Facebook: @TaivBox | Twitter: @TaiVtv Noah’s Other Recommended Resources: Tech West – for support to take your Western Canadian company global, including support to attend international conferences like CES North Forge – check out Ramp Up Weekend where you can win office space for 6 months Futurpreneur – funding and support for entrepreneurial businesses across Canada 

On episode 11 of Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller interviews Elizabeth Crawford, Founder of Swish Productions, Swish Model Management, and new co-working space Swish Co-Create. Liz speaks about the organic journey from International Modelling to CEO of multiple companies spurred by passion.

The Millers speak with Elizabeth Crawford, Founder of Swish Productions, Swish Model Management, and new co-working space Swish Co-Create. Liz speaks about the organic journey from International Modelling to CEO of multiple companies spurred by passion. When it comes to starting a business, the Swish brand is willing to commit resources to fill gaps in the market based on intuition. Liz focuses on the social connections to help build her brand and support others in the community.  Find Elizabeth Crawford and Swish Online Here: www.swishproductions.com LinkedIn: LinkedIn Instagram: @SwishModels  @SwishCoCreate  @SwishWpg Facebook: @SwishModels Twitter: @SwishModels

On episode 10 of Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller interviews Steven Pham and Matt Olson, Founders of Askja, an innovative protective technology company focused on skate armor for hockey players.

This week on START Podcast, we speak with Steven Pham & Matt Olson, Founders of Askja, an innovative protective technology company focused on skate armor for hockey players. Their custom fit carbon fiber gear was quickly adopted by the NHL due in part to the founders extensive networking efforts within Manitoba. They discuss prototype testing with the Winnipeg Jets and the surprisingly low barriers to entry. When it comes to starting a business, Askja would rather ask forgiveness than permission. This mentality has proved successful in the fast paced world of innovative tech. Find Steven, Matt and Askja Online Here: www.askjatech.com Instagram: @AskjaTech  Facebook: @AskjaTech  Twitter: @AskjaTech Direct: steve@askjatech.com Matt and Steven’s Other Recommended Resources: Book: Jocko Wilink, Extreme Ownership Podcast: Jocko Podcast North Forge Info: molson@northforge.ca

On episode 9 of Start Podcast, host Margaux Miller interviews Jason Myers, founder of Bold Commerce, about his business building the leading Shopify applications and plugins, and how it all started in a basement with his 3 co-founders.

In this episode of START podcast, the Millers speak with Jason Myers, founder of Bold Commerce, about his business building the leading Shopify applications and plugins, and how it all started in a basement with his 3 co-founders. They discuss their successful scale up in Manitoba, and what it means to accept a major round of Series A Funding after 8 years in business. Jay believes the future of tech will evolve with AI and explains how Bold has incorporated computer and machine learning in many of their applications. Listen to the full episode to learn more about scaling a company from a small town to the big city, and some human resources best practices during rapid growth. Find Bold Commerce Online Here:   www.boldcommerce.com/  Instagram: @Bold_Commerce Facebook: @BoldApp Twitter: @Bold_Commerce       Jay’s Other Recommended Resources: Drive by Daniel Pink Measure What Matters