UNBeknownst

Serial entrepreneur Matt Symes (BA'04/BEd'04) is an expert on helping leaders confront change and develop sound strategies to navigate through uncertain times. As founding partner and CEO of Symplicity Designs, based in Atlantic Canada, he and his team have helped over 500 organizations and institutions both scale and recover from some of their darkest moments.   In addition to Symplicity Designs, Matt also manages a portfolio of companies of which he holds a majority or minority stake, in a range of industries. He was named Business Leader of the Year in 2020 from the Halifax Chamber of Commerce and one of Atlantic Canada's Top 50 CEOs in 2022 and 2023 by Atlantic Business Magazine. Matt goes out of his way to embrace leading-edge environmentally sustainable practices at his companies, no matter how much effort and resources are required. He believes in stoicism – that we all have 100 percent control over our mindset. With that frame of mind, it's possible to do almost anything, and he enjoys solving complex problems.  Hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA'15) and Andrew Martel (BCS'15) chat with Matt about embracing change, planning for the future, and, in particular, how to adopt AI for efficiency and growth.  Highlights from the episode:    The issues that leaders are currently grappling with and what they are looking to in the future  How disruptions – in particular AI - are massively uprooting how we create value  How fast the world is now changing for business and lives  The areas that business leaders need to lean into AI, and how to integrate and benefit from it  Looking at the challenge of AI from impact and looking back through to the people who use it and benefit from it – and how leaders can do this with their people, not to them.  How we can personally look forward and navigate learning and building a career around AI and other changes  Links and resources:    Matt's LinkedIn  Symplicity Designs  Nexus, by Yuval Noah Harari  Thanks to:    Our alumni hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA'15) and Andrew Martel (BCS'15)  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Mike LeBlanc has been building and growing tech and tech consulting companies in New Brunswick over the last 25 years, including Blue Spurs, which he sold to Deloitte Canada in 2019 to help the company advance its global technology capability and put New Brunswick on the map. His latest startup is BlueKit, a first-of-its-kind hands-on innovation-creation platform thoughtfully designed from the ground up for all learners - including non-technical educators - to explore the art of the possible with technology. Designed for middle and high school students, it empowers learners across all disciplines to unlock the limitless potential of technology by tackling real-world problems.  In our current environment where tech – and the people behind tech companies – are perhaps not living up to using technology for the good of society, hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA'15) and Andrew Martel (BCS'15) chat with Mike about doing innovative work in the tech space that positively impacts industry, businesses, communities and individuals.  Highlights from the episode:    The idea and technology behind BlueKit, and the need for tech education to keep up with advancements.  The value of early exposure to and education in technology  The ups and downs of entrepreneurship and innovating  The importance of diverse voices and ethics when developing technology and new capabilities  AI needs a wide variety of voices, as well as transparency  What tech for good means, and the future of guidelines for companies when using technology  How computer scientists are using problem solving skills to make the world better  The future of AI and studying so that we can guide how to use it      Links and resources:    Mike's LinkedIn  BlueKit  Thanks to:    Our alumni hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA'15) and Andrew Martel (BCS'15)  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Aimée Foreman (MBA'01) is founder and CEO of Silvermark, an advisory firm that specializes in working with aging care leaders in private business, not-for-profits, and all levels of government to define challenges and design solutions that improve the quality of life of the older adults they serve.  She also recently founded the non-profit CaregiversNB, and is an advisory member of Canadian Caregiving, an organization that provides support to family caregivers and care providers.   Aimée is a purpose-driven entrepreneur, advisor, and advocate who is committed to advancing the quality of life for older adults. She believes that the greatest plagues to aging well can be addressed through connection, purpose, and meaningful contribution across generations.  Hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA'15) and Andrew Martel (BCS'15) chat with Aimée about the research, best practices, and innovations that can be used to inform policy, progressive programming, and design through a user-centric approach to aging.  Highlights from the episode:    An explanation of the silver economy and care economy, and the demographics behind it Trends in the silver and care economies The barriers to aging well and how to break them down Examples of how we can better support connection among older adults How the provinces in Canada are doing in aging and caregiver supports How Silvermark is advocating for aging care with governments and organizations An explanation of age-friendly initiatives How we can better support caregivers for seniors  Links and resources:    Aimee's LinkedIn Silvermark Let's Talk about Aging Parents book  Thanks to:    Our alumni hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA'15) and Andrew Martel (BCS'15) Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden  Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife  To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Andrew MacLean (BA'07) writes the weekly Atlantic Canadian newspaper column Backyard History and hosts the podcast and TV show of the same name. He has also written 3 books about the forgotten stories of Atlantic Canada's past. Andrew received a degree in history at UNB and then a master's at Dalhousie University. But before beginning writing, he had already lived a far ranging and eclectic life: he has backpacked through 37 countries on 5 continents, visiting over 200 different cities around the world. He has travelled from Nunavut to the Florida Keys doing aerial surveying using lasers to track rising waters of global climate change.   All that world travelling was brought to a screeching halt by the global pandemic, which brought him back home to New Brunswick. Inspired by recalling the local lore he heard from his grandfather in the tiny village of Tide Head, Andrew began digging deep into obscure moments in Maritimes history as a pandemic passion project. It turned into more than he could ever have imagined.  Hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA'15) and Andrew Martel (BCS'15) chat with Andrew about stories he's uncovered, and why storytelling and history matter.   Highlights from the episode:    A glimpse into Andrew's travel stories  What he brought back to Atlantic Canada  Why he transitioned to telling stories of history from our own backyard on the East Coast  Why storytelling is important  Why understanding our history is also important    Links and resources:    Backyard History  Thanks to:    Our alumni hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA'15) and Andrew Martel (BCS'15) Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden  Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Paralympic cyclist Alexandre Hayward (BScEng'23) had a big year in 2024: he opened the season with gold in the C3 time trial and bronze in the road race at World Cup in Australia and added a time trial bronze at a second stop in Belgium. At the track worlds in Rio, he took silver in the men's C3 scratch race. Then came the big one – the Paralympics in Paris last August, where he won the bronze medal in the men's C3 3,000-metre Individual Pursuit at the Paris velodrome.     Alex burst onto the national and international Para cycling stage in 2022, after playing wheelchair basketball for New Brunswick at the Canada Winter Games and the Canadian junior team. In 2012, at the age of 16, Alex suffered an incomplete spinal cord injury, and his aspirations to pursue professional-level hockey ended. His everyday became about discovering if he'd walk and have normal body function again. Eventually, basketball, and then cycling, became a passion. Alex also graduated UNB in 2023 from the bachelor of engineering program, and spent a summer at UNB's Institute of Biomedical Engineering as an intern, and has a burgeoning interest in biomedical research.   Hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA'15) and Andrew Martel (BCS'15) chat with Alex about his story and lessons he learned, as well as how he stays motivated and mentally and physically fit.   In this episode:    Alex's accident and his recovery  How he got into wheelchair basketball, and then cycling  The experience of Paris 2024 and other world-class competitions  Alex's experience in biomedical engineering at UNB and his future plans  How he says motivated and fit.       Links and resources:    Alex's Insta  Thanks to:    Our alumni hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA'15) and Andrew Martel (BCS'15)  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife   To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Randy Hatfield (BA'78, LLB'88) is the executive director of the Human Development Council, an organization dedicated to identifying and addressing social issues in New Brunswick through research, information, coordination and networking. He's a longtime anti-poverty advocate and pushes for social and economic inclusion. He's been with the Human Development Council since 2002, and is involved with numerous other organizations, including the Community Living Board. Randy holds a bachelor's degree in economics and political science from UNB's Saint John campus, a master's degree in political science from the University of Alberta, and a law degree from UNB.  Hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA'15) and Andrew Martel (BCS'15) chat with Randy about defining poverty, measuring it and real solutions to alleviating it.   In this episode:    Randy's work with the Human Development Council in Saint John and around New Brunswick  How to define poverty  How to measure it  How New Brunswick stacks up against the rest of Canada  Using policy levers to alleviate poverty and find long-term solutions  What's worked and what hasn't     Links and resources:    Randy's LinkedIn  Human Development Council  Thanks to:    Our alumni hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA'15) and Andrew Martel (BCS'15)  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Kelsey Hogan (BPhil'16) is an ultramarathon trail runner and mental performance consultant who has recently returned from Europe after completing the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc — a 171-kilometre race that crosses Italy, Switzerland and France.  Originally from Newfoundland, Kelsey has called Fredericton home since she was a student at UNB. She graduated in 2016 with a bachelor of philosophy in interdisciplinary leadership and psychology from UNB's Renaissance College, and has also completed a master of science in kinesiology in sport psychology at Dalhousie University. She is currently working toward accreditation as a mental performance consultant.   Kelsey, in addition to training and running professionally, is exploring the factors that influence the performance and well-being of endurance athletes, teams, and coaches. Host Katie Davey (BA'17) chats with her about being an active member of the community through building good governance and providing a helping hand.  In this episode:    How Kelsey found the sport of ultra running.  The preparation process and experience of running ultramarathons trail races.  Developing mental fitness for ultra pursuits.  Mindset and language that helps to conquer ultras in racing and in life.  How performance psychology gives the tools needed to perform your best in both sport and life.  Longevity as a key piece of planning in ultra racing and other life pursuits.   Links and resources:    Kelseyhogan.com  Kelsey's Instagram  Mont Blanc UTMB race  Renaissance College  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Kjeld Mizpah “KJ” Conyers-Steede (BA'18) is director of strategy and partnerships for Inspiring Communities, a nonprofit working to build collaborative relationships for social change in Atlantic Canada.  A UNB political science alum, KJ is a seasoned systems thinker with a strong focus on areas such as community-centric strategic planning, human-centered design, organizational culture, and governance reviews. From executive director of the New Brunswick Student Alliance to operations manager at the Spring Garden Area Business Association, to director of change management for Hockey Nova Scotia, to his recent work on projects that drive community-centric innovation, KJ has never backed away from big challenges. In fact, he excels at crafting solutions for what he refers to as the “big hairy policy challenges” and collaborating on community projects that tackle the most complex and pressing issues in society.   Host Katie Davey (BA'17) chats KJ about a wide range of challenges and solutions for Atlantic Canadian communities.  In this episode:    The journey for KJ from Bermuda to New Brunswick  Regional and community collaboration  The opportunity for rural economic development in Atlantic Canada  Why KJ is running for Mayor of his regional community in Nova Scotia  How communities need to prepare for climate change, especially in rural areas of Atlantic Canada  How community-centric innovation and creating ecosystems can lead to problem-solving  How policy development needs to be built outside of election cycles, and how it can be done by empowering people and community champions.  How academic research is allowing KJ to test social incubation projects.   Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Josh LeBrun (BBA'17) is Executive Director of 12 Neighbours, the tiny-home affordable housing community in Fredericton which has seen success – and global admiration – over the past couple of years. Now complete at 96 homes, the community-focused organization has turned its attention to social enterprise, providing low-barrier, progressive employment opportunities for the people it serves.   Josh has a passion for social enterprise, entrepreneurship and meaningful contribution. He has a background in both business and design, and co-founded his own business before turning his attention to 12 Neighbours.  In this episode:    Josh's background and how he started working with his father, Marcel LeBrun, on the 12 Neighbours enterprise.  The three phases of 12 Neighbours and the goal of doing good in the community.  What it's like working with family.  The people, profit, planet model of social business.  The challenges of running a social enterprise at the ground level.   How to pay attention and market social enterprise more broadly.   The importance of being able to work within a team.   Links and resources:    Josh's LinkedIn  12 Neighbours  UNB Pond-Deshpande Centre  UNB TME program  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Shilo Boucher (BBA'00), is President and CEO of the YMCA of Southwest New Brunswick, one of the largest employers and community service organizations in the province. Shilo attended UNB on the Saint John campus, graduating from business administration in 1999, then worked at two large public accounting firms while obtaining her CPA before landing at the Saint John YMCA in 2006. She held roles as the chief financial officer and chief operating officer before taking on the role of president and CEO in 2011.   Shilo has been tremendously involved in helping to grow the community of Saint John and region, having served on the Saint John Airport board of directors, president of The Resource Centre for Youth, director of FusionSJ and River Valley Recreational Center, chair of the board for Credit Counselling Services of Atlantic Canada, and the treasurer for the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Saint John. She was also recently named to the board of directors for Port Saint John.   Host Katie Davey (BA'17) chats with her about being an active member of the community through building good governance and providing a helping hand.  In this episode:    A backgrounder on the wide range of activities of the YMCA in southern New Brunswick and Saint John.  How community programs are supporting employment and the economy.  How to do community health better  Growing as a leader and working with a board of directors  How to keep planning for the future and learning how to think strategically about future needs  The importance of good governance for both non-profits and corporate    Links and resources:    Shilo's LinkedIn  YMCA of Southwest NB  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

In this special episode as the finale to Season 3, we turn the tables on UNBeknownst host Katie Davey (BA'17). In her day job, Katie is a public policy expert and social innovator, currently serving as the Pond-Deshpande Centre's (PDC) Executive Director at the University of New Brunswick. Previously, she was the Director of Policy & Media at the Public Policy Forum, and also served as senior advisor in the Office of the Premier of New Brunswick. Armed with a degree in political science from UNB and master's in applied politics from Wilfrid Laurier University, Katie has the perfect mix of academic and real-world savvy to tackle socio-economic challenges through social innovation, entrepreneurship, and public policy. Selected as a top innovator by Atlantic Business Magazine in 2023, Katie is a go-to voice in political commentary and opinion writing, making waves in major publications and as a regular on CBC New Brunswick and Atlantic. She is the Founder and Principal of Femme Wonk and serves on the Board of Directors for the Human Development Council, Action Canada, and other community groups.  In this episode:    Katie's origin story and how she got her start into politics, public policy and advocacy.  The impact of UNB's Pond-Deshponde Centre and what exactly social innovation and social entrepreneurship means on the ground.  The social innovation lab – and how that's shifting things in New Brunswick.  Problem-solving through the lens of social good.  The growth of ventures working on social innovation and social good in New Brunswick.  The information/communications challenges of our current environment.  How New Brunswick is stacking up against other jurisdictions around the world for social innovation and growth.    Links and resources:  Katie's LinkedIN  Pond Deshpande Centre  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Nicole LeBlanc (BBA'00) is a partner with Woven Capital in Tokyo, focusing on investments in mobility, energy, and sustainability that support and accelerate Toyota's mission to build the safest mobility in the world. Prior to that she was a partner in Denmark with 2150, an urban tech & sustainability fund focused on supporting the growth of sustainable cities. She's held previous positions as director of investments for Alphabet's Sidewalk Labs in Toronto, and as director at BDC Capital and at the New Brunswick Innovation Foundation.   Nicole is also a founder and investor in Sandpiper.vc, a women-led venture fund based in Atlantic Canada aiming to support women as both founders and investors. She's a huge proponent of encouraging and supporting women in the venture capital sector, and I'm very excited to talk with her about why that's so important, as well as why she feels so strongly in investing in technology for our collective future.  In this episode:    How Nicole first started in venture capital and the opportunities around the world that led her to becoming an expert in the field  Her position in Toronto at Sidewalk Labs that hooked her on green cities and urban tech.  Why corporate companies have growth/venture capital firms.   How companies can implement sustainability implement solutions in their systems – and why Nicole is excited about startups providing those solutions.   The role of corporate venture capitalist  How smaller municipalities can have a great impact on lives and drive change.  The Copenhagen urban model.  How engaging everyone in communities is key to finding solutions and capital sources.   Why there is a low rate of women in venture capital and how more women can break into it.  How Atlantic Canadian communities can be successful in building smart, sustainable places to live and work, even with fewer resources.   Links and resources:    Nicole's LinkedIN  Woven Capital  Sandpiper Ventures  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Dr. Jennifer Woodland (MA'09, PhD'15) is an assistant professor in the Department of Psychology at UNB's Saint John campus and an Integrated Health Initiative researcher who teaches within the Bachelor of Health program at UNB. She has a PhD in experimental psychology from UNB, with a focus in multisensory perception. Jen has over 10 years of experience in health research – as a research methodologist for Horizon Health Network and Dalhousie Medicine New Brunswick. Before her academic appointment, she spent 5 years working in the private health sector as the director of Human Health Factors at Canadian Health Solutions where she led a development team toward multidisciplinary medical innovation products. Her research interests are in multidisciplinary health research on medication adherence and combining the use of evidence-based psychological principles to inform the development and improvement of health product usability.  In this episode:    An explanation of experimental psychology in multisensory perception  How research, clinical and technology areas can work together and are critical for healthcare solutions  A detailed look at what integrated health and integrated health research really means  The Integrated Health Initiative (IHI) at UNB's Saint John campus, and the benefits of an intentional health cluster  How to translate research into meaningful health policy  Health literacy for health adherence   Links and resources:  UNB Integrated Health Initiative  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Mi'gmaq entrepreneur Victoria LaBillois (BA'91, MBA'04) is the owner of Wejipeg Excavation Inc. and co-owner of Wejuseg Construction Inc, and oversaw the completion of a major wind park in Gaspesie, Quebec, where the companies trained and engaged over 100 Mi'gmaq tradespeople.   Victoria has served both the First Nation and federal public service, working at the Band, regional, and national levels.  She is currently serving as Vice-Chair of the National Indigenous Economic Development Board, and represents the National Indigenous Economic Development Board in the development of Canada's first National Indigenous Economic Strategy. In addition to advocating for and facilitating conversations at the highest levels around economic reconciliation, she is all about giving back to her community, serving as a mentor and coach to Indigenous women and helping youth build skills around financial literacy. In 2019 AND 2020, Victoria was honoured by the WXN as one of Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women.  In this episode:    How Victoria went from Arts graduate to owner of a construction and excavation company  Context around why we need to talk about economic reconciliation for Canada's Indigenous peoples  What economic reconciliation practically means   The process of drafting a National Indigenous Economic Strategy for Canada and creating a strategy to advance economic reconciliation – and highlights from this important document that guides government, academia and corporate Canada  The 4 essential ingredients to economic prosperity for Indigenous peoples in Canada   How all of us can help further economic reconciliation  Links and resources:  Victoria's LinkedIn  National Indigenous Economic Strategy  Wejuseg  UNB story on Victoria  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Social and technology entrepreneur Tosin Ajibola (MEng'20) moved from Nigeria to Canada to earn a Master of Engineering degree in Technology Management and Entrepreneurship from UNB. Out of that hands-on program, he and other newcomer classmates co-developed Welkom-U, an innovative online platform that puts newcomers, immigrants, and international students in touch with the things they need to survive and thrive. As CEO of Welkom-U, Tosin is focused on solving problems through technology AND making a social impact.   He is a member of the Atlantic Growth Solutions team, and he serves on the board of Venn Innovation, on the board of the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce and on the advisory board at Social Enterprise World Forum. He also leads the Atlantic Canada Chapter of BlackBoysCode, a non-profit organization that aims to improve the future of young black boys through Computer Science and Technology. And he's been getting noticed: he was named a Top 30 under 30 Innovator in Atlantic Canada in 2021, a Top 25 Canadian Immigrant in 2022 & Top Youth Immigrant in Canada 2022.  In this episode:    Tosin's personal experience starting a new life in Canada and how that helped inform his startup idea  The challenges that newcomers to Canada face, and how Tosin and Welkom-U are working to reduce or eliminate those.   Why retention of immigrants is important to Canada and the Maritime region and what we can do to increase that retention.  How leveraging technology and entrepreneurship can be used for a larger social purpose – and how that makes all the difference in Canada.     Links and resources:    Tosin's LinkedIn  Welkom-U  Canada's Top 25 Immigrants   Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

H. Wade MacLauchlan (LLB'81) is a well-known Canadian legal expert, academic, university administrator, politician and community leader. As premier of Prince Edward Island from 2015-19, he led an expansion and diversification of PEI's economy and the growth and rejuvenation of the province's population, while contributing to historic, regional initiatives in immigration, infrastructure and economic growth. Prior to politics, MacLauchlan was the longest-serving president of the University of Prince Edward Island from 1999-2011, and dean of law at the University of New Brunswick from 1991-1996. In this episode:    How MacLauchlan got into academia and then politics  Insights into Atlantic Canadian policy on immigration and growth  The housing crisis and the solutions needed now  How higher education and university can do the most they can in a time of growth  The role of universities with respect to growth and immigration  Links and resources:    Wade MacLauchlan  Announcement of MacLauchlan as UNB Chancellor  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Mohamed Bagha (BAMHT'05, MIDST'13) is the managing director of the Saint John Newcomers Centre and chair of the Saint John Region Chamber of Commerce. Originally from Kenya, he arrived in Saint John in the early 2000s to complete his post-secondary education at UNB and has been part of the newcomer support scene in the Port City for over a decade.   Mohamed is interested in helping grow and strengthen the community and is passionate about helping newcomers be part of that growth. He's worked on initiatives to help newcomers settle more easily in their new home, and to help everyone see the value of community-building work to grow the services available to newcomers. Join us for a conversation about community-building and the role that both newcomers and long-time community members have in working together.    In this episode:    What experiential learning programs do to help students, especially newcomers, build a network and become engaged in their community.  Why building a network is so important for engagement and success.  The important work of the Saint John Newcomers Centre – to both newcomers and the community.  Why Mohamed believes Atlantic Canadian cities are the best places to live.  His optimism for growth for the future, and why newcomers are central to that growth.  How to employ DEI to help overcome challenges for employers recruiting a talented workforce.   How we can create opportunities to make the city the best place to do business.      Links and resources:    Saint John Newcomers Centre  Saint John Region Chamber of Commerce  Mohamed's LinkedIn profile  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Barbara Wasson (BScCS'82) is the director for SLATE - The Science of Learning and Technology, the Norwegian national centre for learning analytics. She is one of the founders of Kaleidoscope, a European Network of Excellence on Technology Enhanced Learning and has been the principal researcher on numerous Norwegian and international projects. She is also member of the Norwegian Ministry of Education's Expert group on Learning Analytics and the Council of Europe Expert Group on AI in Education.   Barbara is passionate about learning analytics, AI and education, learning games, e-assessment, teacher inquiry, and data literacy. Host Katie Davey chats with her about the future of data and technology in learning design.  In this episode:    Barbara's experience growing up around computers at UNB and how she got into learning analytics and AI  Policy around learning analytics and AI in the classroom and how privacy and ethics policy is crucial.   How much data can we use to aid in learning without harming children's privacy?  The astounding amount of important data all around us, and the dilemmas this causes for teaching and learning in schools.  The importance of data literacy and AI and how to prepare people for how AI will be a part of daily life soon.  How to learn with AI, and empowering students at an early age to use technology and AI.   Who decides what knowledge is? How does that affect creativity and innovation?  Barbara's thoughts on future trends in technology in learning.  Links and resources:   The story of the Wasson family and computer science at UNB   University of Bergen   AI and Education paper by Barbara Wasson  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Sara Taaffe is a senior project manager with the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership in London, England. After graduating with a leadership degree from UNB's Renaissance College, Sara began applying her passion for social innovation in Atlantic Canada's technology sector, but after four years began to feel disillusioned with the push for economic growth without putting value on sustainability, ethics, local business and consumer experience. She disconnected off-grid and began to understand the significant agency that individuals hold in creating positive changes through our day-to-day decisions. Indeed, the compounding effect of these decisions has tremendous influence on that of the wider economy. Now working in nature-related finance at the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership, she explores the intersection of economic progress and sustainability to better understand how to synergize the two. In this episode:    Sara's experience diverting from the corporate world to go off-grid for three years.  What are the roles of consumers vs corporations and governments and other stakeholders in driving the change that's needed for a sustainable economy?  What nature-related finance means.  How nature and climate are showing up as macroeconomic risks with various financial institutions. What consumers and citizens CAN do to help and why Sara is optimistic for our future.    Links and resources:    Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership  UNB Renaissance College  London School of Economics  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Mike Corey (BSc'08) is a biology graduate turned travel host who never turns down an adventure. His curiosity has sent him searching out cultures, creatures, and locations that most people avoid – with the aim of facing – and even chasing – fear. This intense passion has led him to grow his YouTube Channel “Fearless & Far” to over 2M subscribers, receive 2 Emmy nominations for his Adventure Travel TV program "Uncharted Adventure", and an Ambie nomination for his podcast "Against the Odds".  Mike's career began after receiving his Bachelor of Science from UNB, then backpacking the world for five years volunteering as a research assistant for scientists studying ocean conservation. Bringing a camera along for these trips allowed him to capture the material he needed to win several international travel video competitions and begin his YouTube Channel.   Now a top travel influencer, Mike enjoys teaching others how to face their fears to become happier. In this episode:    The adventure that gave Mike the travel bug and what made him realize the world is gentler than we think.  How his obsession with animals and nature turned into a passion for people.  Lessons he's learned from people he's met in his exotic travels.  Why humans need a challenge and purpose to thrive.  What fearlessness and conquering fear actually means.  The quiet fears that sneak up on you.  He says “fear is the compass” is his life and directs him in his actions.  How everyone can start to face their fears.  The importance of stories – and how they're told everywhere.  Where to listen:   Spotify   Apple Podcasts   Libsyn   Google Podcasts   Links and resources:    Fearless and Far  Mike's YouTube channel  Mike's Instagram  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website. 

Dr. Teresa Fowler (MEd'11) is a researcher who is diving into the sexism, misogyny and hypermasculinity of hockey in Canada and who is now working directly with Hockey Canada to try to correct the enduring problems. She is an assistant professor at Concordia University of Edmonton in the faculty of education. Her research focuses on critical white masculinities and the implications of masculinity on men's mental health in hockey culture as well as anti-colonial pedagogic approaches to teacher education. She received her Master of Education from UNB and PhD from the University of Calgary, and she has over 15 years of professional experience in K-12 education in the areas of guidance and counselling, mental health services, and Indigenous education. Teresa is a member of Scholars Against Abuse in Canadian Sport that have partnered with Center for Children's Rights to push for a judicial inquiry into the sport.   In this episode:    Teresa's family background and how she began noticing indifferences in the culture of young men in hockey  What is causing harm to young hockey players' identities and mental health  Shifting the culture of hockey away from aggression and back to skills and competition.   How silence is hard to break.   Our research shows that sexisim in hockey culture is as normal as the air they breathe.   Shocking examples of sexism grooming in young hockey culture in Canada.  Her work with Hockey Canada to help them make the right changes.  How Hockey Canada can take the lead and make a shift nationwide and why that's important for all sports.  Harassment experienced for doing this kind of work.  How white supremacy is tied to misogyny in hockey in Canada.  The introduction of white male love into men's hockey in the country.  How to begin making positive changes in toxic masculine culture.   How men's equality is important in the conversation.   The status of an inquiry in sport in Canada, and Teresa's recommendation at the inquiry to move sport away from Heritage Canada into Health.       Links and resources:    Article on Dr. Fowler's research  Info from the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage (CHPC) on Hockey Canada   Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website 

Lea Nicholas-MacKenzie (BA'91) is a trailblazer for Indigenous rights: she's the former Special Advisor for Indigenous Issues to the UN, former Chief of Staff to then Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, the Honourable Jody Wilson-Raybould, and past Chief of Staff to the National Chief at the Assembly of First Nations. She also served as Director of Aboriginal Participation and Chief of Protocol for the Four Host First Nations during the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Lea is a member of the Wəlastəkwey Nation at Tobique, New Brunswick and holds a BA in Language and Linguistics UNB - and since then has gained extensive experience in international relations focused on the human rights of Indigenous Peoples. In 2021 she was named one of Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women.   In this episode:    -Lea's family background and family role models – and how she learned that advocacy can make a difference -Lea's first roles and how she learned how the system worked  -Her experience on and off for many years at the Assembly of First Nations, including Chief of Staff at age 27.   -Her experience advocating at the United Nations.  -What led to becoming a seasoned leader and ready to serve with Jody Wilson-Raybould in the Minister of Justice and Attorney General's office, and her experience with that chance to make change.  -Her principles of justice, integrity and truth telling and how they didn't always mesh with the realities of politics  -Her work today in human rights, governance and reconciliation  -The Indigenous rights advancements that are giving her hope  -Ideas for being an ally moving forward and how to further the Calls to Action  -What Lea is optimistic about for the future  Links and resources:    Lea's LinkedIn  Thanks to:    -Our alumni host, Katie Davey  -Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   -Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website 

Mark Leger (MA'11) was editor of Huddle, the popular Maritime online business news publication, from 2017 to early 2023, and was also director of news content for parent company Acadia Broadcasting, which owns and operates 15 radio stations in Ontario, New Brunswick and Nova Scotia. A journalist for more than 25 years, Mark began his career as a reporter and editor with the Telegraph-Journal and went on to work for CBC Radio as a reporter and producer. An entrepreneur at heart, he has been involved in three start-up media companies in New Brunswick. He is a graduate of the Ryerson University journalism program and has a master's in political science from UNB Saint John. In this episode:    Mark's path to journalism and startups – and his willingness to take risks  The good news approach to Huddle and why people crave positive stories that inspire action  The disappearance of local media and its effect on communities   Ideas on solutions for local journalism in the future  Thoughts on the CBC vs private media and shaky business models  Figuring out how to fund local journalism innovation for communities – and the idea of non-profit models  Podcasts as one part of the solution  Journalism as a core pillar of democracy  Links and resources: Huddle  Mark's LinkedIn   Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife  To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website 

Balarama Holness (MEd'16) is a former CFL athlete turned social entrepreneur, community organizer and anti-racism activist. A native of Montreal, he played professional football for the Montreal Alouettes, with whom he won the Grey Cup in 2010. He's also well educated, having earned a Master's in Education from the University of New Brunswick and a Bachelor of Civil Law and Juris Doctor from McGill University. In 2018, Balarama gained political notoriety by gaining support to force Montreal's municipal government to launch a public inquiry into systemic racism and discrimination in the city. In 2021, Balarama announced his run for Mayor of Montreal under a new, community-led political party, Movement Montreal. Now, he's published a book that recounts his journey from an ashram in West Virginia to becoming a leader in Montreal committed to reshaping society as we know it. In this episode:    His unusual upbringing and how he felt marginalized upon returning to Montreal.  How he got into football and how sports got him back on track.   Why his advanced education was his way to empower himself and his needs in society.  The step into politics and activism, and ideas for how citizens can press for true democracy and open access.   The tensions between Quebec and “Rest of Canada” (and Montreal) over discriminatory laws.   How he and others are pressing forward to eradicate racism in Montreal and beyond.   Links and resources:    Balarama Holness website  His book, Eyes on the Horizon: My Journey Toward Justice  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website 

Ambassador Deborah Lyons (BA'71, DLitt'15) is a diplomat with 21 years of professional experience in political affairs, international cooperation and economic development. Her most recent assignment was as Special Representative and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, having served prior to that as Ambassador of Canada to Israel and before that as Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Ms. Lyons has held several senior positions with Canada's Department of Global Affairs, including as Deputy Ambassador at the Embassy of Canada in Washington, Assistant Deputy Minister for Strategic Policy and Planning and Chief Strategist, and directorships covering commercial relations, international finance and technology. She has also worked with Canada's Department of Natural Resources and Privy Council Office and owned and managed an environmental consulting firm. Ms. Lyons is from Miramichi, New Brunswick and graduated from UNB in 1971 with a Bachelor of Arts degree.  In this episode:    Deborah's account of being in Afghanistan during an extremely challenging transition period of the American withdrawal of troops and takeover by the Taliban.  Why she's such a fan of the United Nations and why she wanted to be in Afghanistan at that time.   The progress she saw in the country prior to the Taliban takeover and her feelings on the state of women in Afghanistan today.  Her insights on the future for women in Afghanistan, and on engaging and educating women for global societal stability.  What Canada and Canadians can and should do to help support women in Afghanistan.  Deborah's two realities - that formed who she is.   Her thoughts on next steps in her career and role in diffusing the growth of divisive hate speech and discourse in Canada and around the world.   Her advice on how we move forward in a changing world.  Links and resources:    UN Announcement  UN Farewell statement  Deborah's Twitter  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife    To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website.

John Leroux (PhD'20) is an architect, art historian and currently Manager of Collections and Exhibitions at the Beaverbrook Art Gallery in Fredericton, New Brunswick. John has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the fields of art history, architecture, visual art, curation, and education. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture from McGill University, an M.A. in Art History from Concordia University, and a PhD in History from UNB. He has worked at award-winning architecture firms in Toronto, Atlanta, Saint John, and his hometown of Fredericton – and has taught at the New Brunswick College of Craft and Design, the University of New Brunswick, and St. Thomas University. He's also won many awards for architectural and public art projects throughout Canada. A passionate advocate for the arts and for architectural conservancy, John has authored 16 books on architecture and visual culture, including Building New Brunswick: An Architectural History and Building a University: The Architecture of UNB.  In this episode:    The magnificent historical architecture of New Brunswick and the not-so-magnificent modern architecture of New Brunswick.  What it means to love a place and steward it   Why the places that are popular are because of the quality of the environment  John's favourite building in New Brunswick  The unique nature of wooden architecture in the Maritimes John's favourite buildings on UNB's campuses and why they're significant  The history behind the built environments of the Saint John and Fredericton campuses John's favourite artwork in Fredericton – and it's on the UNB campus!  His thoughts on the expansion of the Beaverbrook Art Gallery       Links and resources:    John's website  Beaverbrook Art Gallery  Building a University: The Architecture of UNB  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife  To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website 

Krista Jones (BScEE'88) has been a passionate innovator and builder of technology-based businesses for over 30 years. She leverages her deep entrepreneurial and leadership experience to advise founders, inspire teams and create programs to scale Canada's most innovative companies. Currently Senior VP of Ventures Services at MaRS Discovery District, she recently founded MaRS Momentum, an exclusive program that supports the executives of high-growth companies and accelerates their journey to $100 million in revenue. Krista is relied on as thought leader in the “Future of Work” by organizations from all around the world. As an engineer, entrepreneur, mentor and expert problem solver, she has a unique combination of expertise and is known for her comprehensive knowledge of existing and emerging technologies, business models and innovation practices.  In this episode:    How Krista gained the confidence to go big on projects and ideas.  Going deep in different areas of MaRS and supporting entrepreneurs.  The future of jobs and how people can use tech while keeping the focus on people.  How automation – or rather augmentation - plays a role in the evolution of jobs.   Why companies are making short-term decisions right now.  Krista dives into the Momentum program to help solve Canada's productivity gap.  How to close the innovation loop.  Why Canada should embrace the success metrics of good, better, best.  The challenges that persist in Canada when it comes to joining the global competition.  What Krista is excited about for the future.   Links and resources:    MaRS Discovery   Krista's LinkedIn  UNB article on Krista and the future of work  Krista's article in The Record  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife  To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website 

Donald Savoie (MA'72) holds the Canada Research Chair in Public Administration and Governance at the Université de Moncton, as well as the Clément-Cormier Research Chair in Economic Development. Over his career, he has served as an advisor to federal, provincial and territorial government departments and agencies, the private sector, independent associations, OECD, the World Bank and the United Nations. In 1986, at the request of the Canadian prime minister, he undertook a review of federal government regional development efforts in Atlantic Canada and prepared a report that led to the establishment of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. Professor Savoie has published numerous books on public policy, public administration and federalism and has written articles that have appeared in leading national and international peer-reviewed journals in Canada, the U.K., India and the United States. In this episode:    The risk of centralization of power among various Western governments  How lack of regional ministers has contributed to a public lack of trust in the government  The breakdown of accountability  What government is good at   How Donald became such a prolific researcher and writer Why he's a “Maritime nationalist”        Links and resources:    Donald J. Savoie Institute  Publications  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife  To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website 

Emilie Chiasson (BPHIL'15) is a design and innovation expert who's worked with government and NGO organizations to co-create meaningful solutions to persistent problems in developing countries and regions. After graduating from UNB's Renaissance College, she completed a master's in international affairs and public policy from the University of Toronto's Munk School of Public Policy, and since then has gained field experience working with vulnerable populations on the traditional unceded territory of the Wəlastəkwiyik (Maliseet) peoples as well as with communities in Africa, Asia and Europe. Emilie has worked hard to support marginalized groups and bring to light their lived experiences through advocacy and programming and has navigated complex policy and humanitarian issues. She is currently a Social Science & Social Behaviour Change Fellow with Aga Khan Foundation Canada, stationed in Kampala, Uganda.    In this episode:    Emilie's non-linear path from UNB to living on five different continents  What human-centered design means in the field  Innovative interventions Emilie's been working on  Complex solutions to complex conflicts and problems   Gender education and equality efforts in Uganda – and why it's so important   Prioritizing health and wellness and a social network to maintain momentum  Links and resources:    Emilie's LinkedIn  UNB's Renaissance College  Aga Khan Foundation Canada  AKF Gender Equality Policy  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Katie Davey  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance and Manulife     To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website 

Josh O'Kane (BSc/BA ‘09) is a reporter with The Globe and Mail who has covered the technology sector for much of the past five years. His coverage focuses on the relationships between tech companies and human beings, governments, economies, and each other. His latest book, Sideways: The City Google Couldn't Buy, investigates the failed effort by Google sister company Sidewalk Labs to build a future-focused neighbourhood in Toronto, the many institutions that company won over, and the consequences of Big Tech's push into the physical world. Josh has extensively reported from Berlin, Halifax, Fredericton and Saint John, and is based in Toronto. He got his start on the UNB campuses – he has a science and arts degree from UNB, wrote for the UNBSJ student paper, The Baron, and was editor of The Brunswickan on the Fredericton campus. 

Mitch Cobb (BA'02) is co-owner and CEO of Upstreet Craft Brewery, on Prince Edward Island. But Upstreet isn't just a brewery (even though it's grown to become a major player in the Atlantic Canada brewing industry), it's a Certified B Corp, intent on doing business differently and making a positive impact in their community. Mitch has been named one of Atlantic Canada's Top 50 CEOs by Atlantic Business Magazine. He graduated from UNB with an Arts degree in Anthropology and International Development and says that a lightbulb went off for him when he realized that community development and business are not on the opposite sides of the spectrum.  In this episode:  The origin story for Upstreet  The meaning behind being a certified B Corp and why it's important  Why Mitch is drawn to purpose-driven entrepreneurship  The passion and technology behind Upstreet reducing its carbon footprint   An honest conversation around corporate greed and a shift in Millennial and Gen Z consumers  How to find balance as an entrepreneur  Leaning into shifts in society, including creating a non-alcoholic craft beer    Links and resources:  Upstreet Craft Brewing Beer Collection: https://upstreet.ca/beer/  Libra Non-Alcoholic Craft Beer Collection: https://drinklibra.ca/collections/all  Partnership with Local Musicians - Serena Ryder Video - Libra's Balance Ambassador: https://drinklibra.ca/pages/our-story  B Corporation: https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/  Bullfrog Power Utilized in Taproom: https://bullfrogpower.com/    Thanks to:  Our alumni hosts, the AAA Team: Arsham, Arash and Armin Ahmadi https://www.unb.ca/alumni/alumni-news/unb-alumni-podcast.html  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/beats-of-burden/1451387846  Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/benefitsandservices/index.html  To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website 

Julia Wright (BA'07) is the host of CBC Information Morning on CBC Radio 1 in Saint John and is also an award-winning writer and photographer. Born and raised in Saint John, New Brunswick, Julia was a contributor to Vice, Buzzfeed, and various local and provincial newspapers before taking on radio hosting duties in 2019. Earlier, she founded and edited two independent Saint John creative writing and art zines. In this episode, Julia discusses why she loves her hometown of Saint John, her unconventional path to success, journalism since COVID-19, and what she learned at UNB that is so important in her professional life. Links and resources:    CBC bio  Julia on Twitter  Julia's LinkedIn  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Shauna Cole  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard    To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website 

Brandon Mitchell (BIS'16, MEd'18) is a Mi'kmaq graphic artist, published writer and entrepreneur from Listuguj, Quebec, now residing in Fredericton. Brandon is a two-time graduate of UNB, with a Bachelor in Multimedia and Art Culture and Master in Education, Adult and Continuing Education. He is the founder of Birch Bark Comics and creator of the Sacred Circles comic series. His work includes a series of illustrated books that fuse contemporary graphic novel artistic approaches with traditional Mi'kmaq stories and language. Brandon feels that comic books and graphic novels are a path to better teach Indigenous youth about their culture, rather than from a textbook.  In this episode:    How Brandon realized he could write and how he got into graphic novels  His initial experience teaching Indigenous youth in his home community, and how it inspired creating Mi'kmaq graphic art stories  The challenge of starting and growing an Indigenous business, and in being both an entrepreneur and a creative  Growing a career as a published author Why Brandon feels incorporating the Mi'kmaq language into storytelling is a better way to expose young readers to culture and pride   Links and resources:    Birch Bark Comics  Brandon's books  Beaverbrook Art Gallery exhibit  Brandon on Twitter  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Ian Smith  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard    To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website 

Tom Liston (BBA'96) is one of the most sought-after minds in Canada's tech investment sector. Tom currently serves on several Board of Directors for public and private technology companies, and he has a strong track record of shareholder value creation in that capacity. As Chief Investment Officer of a leading technology-focused venture capital firm, he made investments in SaaS, FinTech, and Healthcare IT fields – two of which were among the top exits in Canadian technology in the past decade. Tom is consistently ranked among the top technology analysts in industry surveys and has received more StarMine stock-picking awards than any other technology analyst. He also volunteers his time as a mentor at the Future of Sport Lab in Toronto, has raised over $100,000 for the MLSE Foundation to support kids' sport, and just recently was a lead investor and advocate for refurbishing Canada's oldest basketball court in St. Stephen, NB.  In this episode:  How Tom broke into the big leagues on Bay Street  Why he strategically chose technology companies as his focus  Tom's secrets to investment success  Tom's thoughts on cryptocurrency as part of a portfolio   Blockchain tech used in everyday practices  The need for more homegrown large Canadian tech companies and the investment needed to do it  The lessons in life that come from team sports  Why Tom values giving back to the community      Links and resources:  Canadian ICT Sector Performance  Well Health, a Canadian Telehealth company  CubicFarm Systems, a Canadian AgTech company  World's oldest basketball court   Tom's LinkedIn  Tom's Twitter       Thanks to:  Our alumni hosts, the AAA Team: Arsham, Arash and Armin Ahmadi https://www.unb.ca/alumni/alumni-news/unb-alumni-podcast.html  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/beats-of-burden/1451387846  Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/benefitsandservices/index.html 

Mike Harrison (BScKin'02, MScExSS'05) is a flight surgeon as well as an emergency medicine and critical care physician at the Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. He was recently one of the flight surgeons for SpaceX's Crew-1 Dragon - which launched in 2020 and returned in 2021. Mike graduated from UNB with a Bachelor of Science in kinesiology and a Master of Science in exercise and sport science. We talk with Mike about his work as a physician during these strange times, what it's like to be part of a space crew, and what it takes to follow your dreams and shoot for the stars.  In this episode:    What is aerospace surgery and how Mike got into it  How emergency medicine has changed since the pandemic The different perspectives of health care workers during the pandemic  Why the longer path to getting to where he's supposed to be was helpful  The excitement of being part of the future of space travel  The unknown physiologic effects on humans in space    Links and resources:    Mike's Twitter  UNB Kinesiology  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Ian Smith  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard   To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website 

Alexandra Pope (BPhil'06) graduated from UNB's Renaissance College Bachelor of Philosophy in Leadership program and went straight to work in social media and journalism for local newspapers. She jumped to The Weather Network and then joined Canadian Geographic as digital editor – a dream job. Recently, she was named Editor-in-Chief of Canadian Geographic magazine and its sister publication, Canadian Geographic Travel. Alexandra has had the opportunity to travel to many amazing places in pursuit of interesting stories, including a tidal energy platform in the middle of the Bay of Fundy, a fur trading post in northern Saskatchewan, and the Vimy Ridge battlefield.  In this episode:    Alexandra's role as Editor-in-Chief of Canadian Geographic and her path from local weekly newspaper journalist to leading a major national magazine  The struggle and successes with work-life balance  The polarization of media and influence of social media – and where journalism is heading  Travel adventures and the rewards of doing what you love    Links and resources:    Canadian Geographic   UNB Renaissance College  Alexandra's LinkedIn  Alexandra's Twitter  Alexandra's Instagram  Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Shauna Cole  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard    To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website       

Ash Furrow (BCS'09) is a compassionate software developer who launched his career while still a computer science student at UNB. After graduating, Ash and his partner moved to Toronto, then Amsterdam, and then New York, where he joined Artsy as it was just beginning to grow into the world's largest online marketplace for art. He finally moved home to New Brunswick in 2020 and is now working at Shopify. Ash has authored a number of books, built many apps, spoken at conferences around the world, and is a prolific contributor to open-source software. On his blog, he writes about programming, team leadership, mental health, and his explorations of the humanities.  In this episode:    How Ash's UNB experience helped launch his career and led to developing his own apps  The lessons he learned through early explorations of building apps during the rise of the smartphone    Ash's approach to compassionate software development and his motivation for building a psychologically safe work environment   How his career with Artsy inspired his work with open-source software and building online communities of contributors   The challenges of moving to New York and introducing the idea of e-commerce to a market that had previously resisted the internet    Helping people gain new perspectives and grow as a community through open-source software  Ash's advice for coders and developers to separate themselves from their work   The transition of moving back to New Brunswick to work for Shopify, and shifting to a beginner's mindset         Links and resources:    Ash's LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashfurrow/ Ash's blog: https://ashfurrow.com/blog/   Discover Ash's published books: https://ashfurrow.com/books   UNB Fredericton Faculty of Computer Science:  https://www.unb.ca/fredericton/cs/   Learn more about Artsy: https://www.artsy.net/   Learn more about Shopify: https://www.shopify.ca/   Thanks to:    Our alumni host, Ian Smith  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden   Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard      To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our website 

James Gitau (BBA'87, MA'89) came from Kenya to Canada in the 1980s to study at UNB and later returned to Africa to cultivate an esteemed career with UNICEF across the globe. He's part of UNICEF's senior leadership and operations group, and over the years has developed cross-cultural team leadership skills and has gained international experience within the humanitarian and development context. He's currently Deputy Representative, Operations for Yemen.    In this episode:   How taking the chance to study abroad in Canada during the 1980s changed the course of his life.   James' perspective on travelling to over 30 countries with UNICEF, and the mystical, fulfilling, and challenging experiences of his career.  How ensuring policy framework and policy changes were fair, transparent and ethical, was an important yet challenging task in many third world countries.   Experiencing diverse cultures and learning the history and heritage of the places he's travelled to.         Links and resources:   James' LinkedIn page UNB Fredericton Faculty of Management UNICEF.org Support the Yemin crisis response by UNICEF  Thanks to:   Our alumni host, Emily Barner   Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden  Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard  To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to be alerted to new episodes, visit our website.   

Olive Ozoemena is Director of Programs and Operations for the New Brunswick Multicultural Council. Olive is from Nigeria and came to New Brunswick in 2015 to study in the MBA program at UNB Saint John. She stayed in the community and has been an integral part of helping to build a multicultural society that is welcoming and inclusive for newcomers and people from all backgrounds. She is also a member of UNB's Alumni Council, and is passionate about building inclusive communities and moving beyond unconscious biases.  In this episode:  The experience for international students  Why Olive is optimistic about breaking down societal biases  What individuals can do to break down and eliminate our own biases  How organizations can intentionally include more people and build more representative teams  The challenges of moving the needle and the reward of positive change  What employers can do to recognize experience and enhance their workforce  Links and resources:  New Brunswick Multicultural Council: https://nbmc-cmnb.ca/  Olive's LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oliveozoemena/  UNBSJ 1-year MBA program: https://www.unb.ca/saintjohn/business/mba/  Thanks to:  Our alumni host, Shauna Cole: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/alumni-news/unb-alumni-podcast-hosts.html  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/beats-of-burden/1451387846  Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/benefitsandservices/index.html 

Asif Hasan is an alum from UNB's Electrical and Computer Engineering and TME programs, and the CEO and co-founder of SimpTek Technologies, a Fredericton startup company that helps residential homeowners and electric utility companies to better understand, engage and predict energy usage. He's a world citizen - born in Bangladesh, educated in India and Canada, and now building a company in New Brunswick. He's fully immersed himself into the community through co-chairing in the creation of Fredericton's immigration strategy, acting as Dialogue Director for the City of Fredericton and Dialogue NB, as an Advisor for the local immigration network and as Director at the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce.  In this episode:  Importance of ecosystem to welcome newcomers and make them feel heard and understand they belong.   How international students are risk managers and entrepreneurs - and how good policies can help keep them in the community  How TME helped Asif understand business and help with the foundations of the company.   Simptek's mission to decarbonize every building in North America and make an impact in the world  The grid-edge economy and how climate change is disrupting the industry  How collaborations, open source and creation of shared digital tools are the path to evolution and success  The entrepreneur's job to create a “trailer” for the movie  Promoting courage over fear, and not worrying about failure  How giving back to the community helps everyone feel they belong  How permanent residents are highly invested in society and need a voice through the vote  Links and resources:  Places to visit in Bangladesh: Sundarbans - Chittagong - Cox's Bazar  SimpTek: https://www.simptekinc.com/  NB Power: https://www.nbpower.com/  HOT2000: https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy-efficiency/homes/professional-opportunities/tools-industry-professionals/20596  NB Foster Family: https://www2.gnb.ca/content/gnb/en/departments/social_development/foster_care.html  International Students' Association New Brunswick: https://www.isacanada.ca/  Fredericton Chamber of Commerce: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fredericton-chamber-of-commerce/  Ignite Fredericton: https://www.ignitefredericton.com/  Favorite Productivity Tools:  SLACK: https://slack.com  JIRA: https://www.atlassian.com/software/jira  Asana: https://asana.com  Trello: https://trello.com/en  Canva: https://www.canva.com  Bengali Language 101:  Hello: Ki obostha Thank you: Dhonnobad Goodbye:  Bidai Traditional Dishes:  Tehari, is an authentic Bangladeshi rice that packs a pleasant punch with green chilies and curried beef.  Kitchari, is a homey, comforting, lightly spiced rice and lentil dish  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/asif-hasan  Thanks to:  Our alumni hosts, the AAA Team: Arsham, Arash and Armin Ahmadi https://www.unb.ca/alumni/alumni-news/unb-alumni-podcast.html  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/beats-of-burden/1451387846  Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/benefitsandservices/index.html 

Jason Stephen (BA'98) graduated from UNB Saint John with a degree in history and political science and is now a realtor and real estate expert.  Jason has been involved in organized real estate for more than 20 years and just recently concluded his time as President of the Canadian Real Estate Association. He talks about the hot real estate market and trends, as well as coping with the ups and downs in entrepreneurship. In this episode:   How attending a small university had a lot to offer and encouraged Jason's community involvement, spirit, and sense of belonging.  Serving as the president of the Canadian Real Estate Association and how he has developed a deep involvement with the community through volunteer work   Jason's insights into the current hot real estate market in Canada and its volatility  How there has been population growth in Saint John and how the hybrid system of the world due to the pandemic may have been a contributor.   Why Jason feels giving back to the community is important to help others along the way  Jason's career advice for planning, having a road map to achieve work goals and networking with others to help close a deal        Links and resources:   Jason Stephen real estate: http://jasonstephen.ca/   UNB Saint John Faculty of Arts:  https://www.unb.ca/saintjohn/arts/   Thanks to:   Our alumni host, Emily Barner   Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden  Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard     To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to be alerted to new episodes, visit our website. 

Matt Anderson (BA'92) and Chris Simpson (BSc'90) took very different routes to get to top leadership positions in healthcare in Canada. Matt graduated with an arts degree and began his career in data analytics and IT. He went on to earn a master's degree in Healthcare Administration and Management from the University of Toronto and is now CEO of Ontario Health. Chris Simpson graduated from science and went on to Dalhousie University to graduate with an MD in medicine, subsequently completing internal medicine and cardiology training at Queen's University. Currently, he's Executive VP (Medical) and Chief Medical Officer at Ontario Health. They discuss leading healthcare through a pandemic, addressing current and future challenges and adapting to change.   In this episode:  The very different paths to healthcare leadership and knowing vs. not knowing what you want as a student  COVID-19 as a change agent that forced change quickly in healthcare  Using data and evidence to guide decisions and create the most benefit   The health human resources problem and burnout of healthcare workers  Managing stress and avoiding burnout  Advice for building a successful career – and defining what success really means    Links and resources:  Ontario Health: https://www.ontariohealth.ca/our-team/senior-leadership-team  Chris Simpson Twitter: https://twitter.com/Dr_ChrisSimpson  Think Like a Monk book   Thanks to:  Our alumni host, Shauna Cole: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/alumni-news/unb-alumni-podcast-hosts.html  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/beats-of-burden/1451387846  Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/benefitsandservices/index.html 

Samantha Stewart (BRSS'13, BA'14, MEd'19) moved to Fredericton in 2009 to study Recreation and Sport Studies, and during that time, began competing internationally as a member of Team Canada's wrestling team. Since then, she's become a ten-time national medalist, been named Most Outstanding Female Wrestler in Canada twice, was the Rio 2016 Olympic alternate, and recently won bronze at the 2021 Wrestling World Championships. Off the mats, Samantha's completed 3 degrees at UNB: a Bachelor of Recreation and Sport Studies, a Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Psychology, and a Master of Education in Counselling; and is now a Licensed Counselling Therapist who combines her passion for helping others discover their purpose, achieve their aspirations, and reach their potential with her love, dedication to, and knowledge of elite sport in Canada. She's an athlete ambassador with the New Brunswick Sports Hall of Fame and KidSport NB, and she's a huge advocate for athlete mental health and getting women and girls active in sport.  In this episode:  How Samantha got into wrestling at an early age  Breaking down big long-term goals into small, manageable steps  Sam's experience in being persistent even in the face of failure  Her experience competing on the world stage  How to stay mentally fit in any situation  Practical ways to develop a growth mindset in order to succeed  Links and resources:  Sam's website: https://www.samanthastewart.ca/  Sam's LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samantha-stewart53/  Thanks to:  Our alumni host, Ian Smith: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/alumni-news/unb-alumni-podcast-hosts.html  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/beats-of-burden/1451387846  Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/benefitsandservices/index.html 

Eric Cook is Executive Director and CEO of RPC, New Brunswick's provincial research organization that provides science and engineering services to over 1100 clients annually. Eric's career spans leadership in the application of science and technology in sectors including advanced manufacturing, space science, aerospace, and wireless communications. He's served as the project engineer for Canada's first interplanetary space instrument (a mission to Mars), and as General Manager of internationally recognized COM DEV Wireless. He's an avid researcher into Industry 4.0 as part of the sixth wave of innovation that we're now entering.    In this episode:  Why innovation can happen anywhere and not just in big cities, and how students and employers today can build talent right at home  What Eric learned at NASA early in his career  What he does at RPC and how they work with the cannabis industry in NB  How young employees are helping to companies move in a more sustainable direction  How to identify future trends and be on the leading edge  Eric's thoughts on SMR technology and the fossil fuel challenge  Discussion on Industry 4.0 and automation – and how changes to industry are on the way  What companies should have in their toolbox for the future - in a post-pandemic and climate-emergency world      Links and resources:  Research & Productivity Council (RPC): http://www.rpc.ca/  Milk Analysis Powered by IoT and AI: https://somadetect.com/  High-end Specialized Handsaw: https://robcosman.com/  New Brunswick-based Cannabis Producer: https://organigram.ca/  Kondratiev or Supercycle Wave in Technology or Economy:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kondratiev_wave  NBIF Innovation Voucher Fund: https://nbif.ca/innovation-voucher-fund/  Eric's LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/eric-cook-7a81621  Thanks to:  Our alumni hosts, the AAA Team: Arsham, Arash and Armin Ahmadi https://www.unb.ca/alumni/alumni-news/unb-alumni-podcast.html  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/beats-of-burden/1451387846  Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/benefitsandservices/index.html 

Cayman Grant (BBA'01) graduated from UNB's Saint John campus with a BBA in 2001 and has since become an Emmy award-winning writer and director who's been making films and TV that have been screened in over 100 film festivals worldwide. She's written and directed several projects, including Playing for the Mob, which earned her an Emmy for the feature-length documentary. Her film, The Boy, was a finalist in the prestigious NBCUniversal Short Cuts Film Festival earning her the Oxygen Best Female Director Award chosen and presented by Academy® Award Winner, Geena Davis. She's currently a participant in the prestigious NBC/Universal Emerging Directors TV Program and recently sold a studio feature to New Line Cinema / Warner Bros Studios.  In this episode:  Why growing up in the small village of St. Martin's, New Brunswick is the reason Cayman became a filmmaker.   Why Cayman believes you can parlay a business degree into anything you want.  How Cayman got into telling stories of underdogs.  Why Caman created the podcast Whitespeak and why she's so interested in helping White people understand racial problems with our language and culture and learn how to be a true ally.   The importance of being comfortable with who you are and embracing what you're good at.  Why mistakes and failures are important and need to be talked about more.  Links and resources:  Cayman's Whitespeak podcast: https://www.whitespeakpodcast.com/   Cayman's website: https://www.caymangrant.com/ Cayman's LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caymangrant/   UNB SJ Faculty of Business: https://www.unb.ca/saintjohn/business/  Thanks to:  Our alumni host, Emily Barner: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/alumni-news/unb-alumni-podcast.html  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/beats-of-burden/1451387846  Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/benefitsandservices/index.html  

Natalie Weigum (BSc'10) is currently living in Washington, DC working as a Climate Change Specialist at the World Bank, where she helps integrate climate change into the organization's development lending. After graduating with a Bachelor of Science with a double major in Physics and Chemistry at the University of New Brunswick she completed her PhD in Atmospheric Physics at the University of Oxford and worked in London, UK as a Policy Advisor for the UK Government's Department of Energy and Climate Change. Natalie enjoys living in DC with her fiancé and two cats, and finds time to visit Fredericton as much as she can!  In this episode:  Pivoting out of academia into policy work and experiencing its more tangible day to day impacts  Overcoming an internal crisis of working on the energy side for implementing the shale gas industry   Working on transformative climate change projects to help countries adapt to climate change especially in the developing world  The challenges and rewards of pushing the World Bank's green lending and convincing stakeholders that climate change is important   Natalie's optimisms about the future of climate change and how we as individuals and consumers can reduce admissions   Advice for trusting the process and not being afraid of change in your career    Links and resources:  Natalie's LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalieweigum/   UNB Fredericton Faculty of Science: https://www.unb.ca/fredericton/science/   World Bank: https://www.worldbank.org/en/home Thanks to:  Our alumni host, Ian Smith: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/alumni-news/unb-alumni-podcast.html  Instrumental alumni artist, Beats of Burden: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/beats-of-burden/1451387846  Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/benefitsandservices/index.html  

Michaela D'Intino (BScE'16) is a young alum, having graduated from Civil Engineering at UNB just five years ago. But Michaela didn't go into a typical engineering firm or construction job. She went into supply chain and process improvement roles in the food and beverage sector. After working for a number of years with food and beverage giant Pepsi, she's now with Nova Scotia-based Made With Local. She discusses the importance of local supply chains, why she's passionate about building strong operations at a local Atlantic company, and tips on how to lead successfully as a young professional.   In this episode:  Why Michaela is passionate about local supply chains and building strong operations for a local Atlantic company.  The satisfaction of having personal connections with local suppliers.  The philosophy behind Made with Local.  How supply chain got crazy when Covid-19 took over the world.  The lesson Michaela learned about leading and working with diverse teams.  Tips for quick success after graduation and how to lead as a young professional.   Links and resources:  Made with Local: https://www.madewithlocal.com/  Michaela's LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaela-d-intino-p-eng-46679bb2/  UNB engineering: https://www.unb.ca/fredericton/engineering/  Thanks to:  Our alumni host, Shauna Cole: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/alumni-news/unb-alumni-podcast-hosts.html  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/beats-of-burden/1451387846  Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/benefitsandservices/index.html 

Pam Palmater (LLB'97) is an award-winning public speaker, author and social justice activist. She was one of the spokespeople and public educators for the Idle No More movement and continues to advocate alongside other social movements focusing on Indigenous rights, social justice and climate action. She is also a well-known media commentator and public speaker - considered one of Canada's Top 25 Influential Movers and Shakers by the Financial Post. Pam is a member of the Eel River Bar First Nation in northern New Brunswick and has four university degrees, including a law degree from UNB in 1997. She's been a practicing lawyer for 22 years and is currently a Professor and the Chair in Indigenous Governance at Ryerson University.    In this episode:  Pam discusses her law background and how she got into activism  Her time working to make change within government and why it wasn't for her  Kids, personal time and social media  Her experience at Ryerson and the university's decision to change its name  Insights into the decolonization process and how Pam is emboldened by community and seeing change happen  Ways in which every Canadian can make a difference when it comes to Indigenous reconciliation    Links and resources:  Pam's website: https://pampalmater.com  Warrior Life podcast: https://soundcloud.com/pampalmater  Pam on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Pam_Palmater  UNB Faculty of Law: https://www.unb.ca/fredericton/law/  Thanks to:  Our alumni host, Emily Barner: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/alumni-news/unb-alumni-podcast.html  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/beats-of-burden/1451387846  Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/benefitsandservices/index.html 

Jason Goldlist (BPHIL'06), graduated from UNB with a Bachelor of Philosophy in Leadership from Renaissance College and is currently CEO and co-founder of Venue, an online platform for virtual special events that inspire and engage. He's also co-founder of TechTO and has an impressive resume, including as Head of Marketing and General Manager of Wealthsimple.   In this episode:  Lessons learned from consulting in Africa and then jumping to work for the 2010 Olympic Games in Vancouver  Jason's philosophy around choosing career moves to intentionally build the right skills and follow the right people  What's needed more than flashy websites and ads to be successful as a company  The Superbowl ad that helped Wealthsimple burst onto the scene  The story behind TechTO and what's needed to grow tech startups in Canada  The origins of Jason's new company, Venue  Jason's advice for anyone wanting to build an idea into a venture   Links and resources:  Venue: https://www.venue.live/  Wealthsimple: https://www.wealthsimple.com/en-ca/  TechTO: https://www.techto.org/  Wealthsimple Super Bowl Ad - Mad World: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yd3MMysL2NE  Wealthsimple - Take care of yourself (Ping Pong - Super Bowl): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_2yDAuDZijY  Jason's LinkedIN: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/goldlist  Thanks to:  Our alumni hosts, the AAA Team: Arsham, Arash and Armin Ahmadi https://www.unb.ca/alumni/alumni-news/unb-alumni-podcast.html  Music by alumni artist, Beats of Burden: https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/beats-of-burden/1451387846  Our alumni Affinity Partners, TD Insurance, Manulife, and MBNA Mastercard: https://www.unb.ca/alumni/benefitsandservices/index.html 

Welcome to UNBeknownst, a podcast for alumni, by alumni. In the pilot episode, University of New Brunswick Associated Alumni Executive Director Michelle McNeil gets to know our volunteer alumni hosts of Season 1 of this new podcast. UNBeknownst explores unexpected career paths, insights of alumni learned from experience outside the classroom, and hot takes on current issues. In our pilot episode, learn more about our hosts: Shauna Cole (BA'02, MBA'12) Team AAA: Arash Ahmadi (BScEE'15), Arsham Ahmadi (BScEE'12), Armin Ahmadi (BBA'18) Emily Barner (BBA'96) Ian Smith (BSc'17, CS'17, MCS'19) For more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to be alerted to new episodes, visit https://www.unb.ca/alumni/alumni-news/unb-alumni-podcast.html.