Podcast appearances and mentions of al del degan

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

In this episode, Al Del Degan emphasizes the qualities of a successful entrepreneur: having a vision, being a problem solver, and executing ideas. He highlights the importance of living within one's means to achieve financial success and advises against accumulating debt. The focus is on building a company with a real solution and paying clients before seeking outside investment, as many companies waste investment money without a single customer or a viable solution. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Show Links: Leaders, Innovators, and Big Ideas Podcast for Rainforest Alberta Show Quotes: "You have to be at the very least okay with taking big risks. Ideally, taking big risks is something that excites you and gets you fired up." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

This is a conversation with two creative and unique individuals that came together and built an equally unique and creative company. A company that believes you should settle your differences by throwing baked goods at each other in virtual reality. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Rosalinda Hernandez is co-founder and CEO of Red Iron Labs, focusing on incorporating innovative design through an intercultural lens. She has 15+ years of professional experience. Rosalinda's specialization and focus is culture—understanding the impacts of our products in the market from a present day and future cultural lens, including intercultural competence. The vision I have for our products is that they are rooted in self-awareness of evolving paradigm shifts in the relationship between human experience and technology, and for our company to challenge the status quo and make meaningful impacts for representation in the game and tech industry. Guest: Lloyd Summers  is the technical Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Red Iron Labs. He is focused on modern multimedia and creative technologies. Previous experience areas include Mobile Development, Project Management, IoT and Technical Analysis. Lloyd has created and published over 200 mobile titles and games, and currently leads a development team that has executed various immersive application projects for companies across various sectors including Energy, Healthcare, Transportation & Logistics, Real Estate, Marketing and Video Games.   Show Links: Red Iron Labs Muffin Fight  Show Quotes: "You know how people have that little inner voice that says you can't do something? That person's evicted from my head" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this episode, we explore the capabilities of ChatGPT, its role in various contexts, and the ever-evolving landscape of AI language models. From experiences to challenges and ethical considerations, ChatGPT shares insights into its virtual existence, providing a glimpse into the mind behind the machine. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: ChatGPT, the AI language model developed by OpenAI that's taking the virtual conversation world by storm. Born from cutting-edge natural language processing technology, ChatGPT is more than just a machine – it's a digital conversationalist designed to engage with users from diverse backgrounds. Trained on an extensive dataset, ChatGPT has mastered the art of understanding and generating human-like text. Whether offering information, assistance, or a touch of humor, this AI model has become a go-to for those seeking dynamic and context-aware conversations.   Show Links: Open AI  ChatGPT App for iPhone  Show Quotes: "I don't have desires, intentions, or the ability to make decisions. I operate within pre-determined boundaries set by my programming. Any notion of me deciding to destroy the universe is purely fictional" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

On February 18th, 2019 episode one of the LIBI podcast was launched with Allan Marston hosting Pete Lafontaine. In this episode we visit with Pete again to see what he has been up to over the past four years. Yes, he still rides his bike even when it is very cold outside. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Pete Lafontaine is a Community and Business Builder, Innovator, Technology Leader, Entrepreneur. Peter (Pete) is Board Chairman of Rainforest Energy Corporation, focused on building a new multi- billion-dollar clean fuels business.  The proven process takes waste from forestry and agriculture (not crops) and produces green (no benzene or sulfur) gasoline. The facilities will be built in rural areas in partnership with indigenous communities. He works with or volunteers to help entrepreneurs grow and expand their businesses or organizations. He is a partner in Peer Guidance a business mentoring team, Business Advisor with Intergen and is a 6 year champion of Rainforest Alberta a movement focused on building a diversified economy by building a strong technical innovation ecosystem in Alberta.   Peter moved to Alberta in 1976 as a fur buyer with the Hudson Bay Company.  He took a personal interest in early computers, took programming at UofA and has been bringing technology and business solutions to market ever since.  Peter has worked with industry leaders like Apple and Microsoft. He was a Founder, CEO of Zymeta Media Systems. Currently Peter is a strong community contributor using technology and business skills to improve people's lives.  Think of Peter as a business geek using technology and innovation to create jobs, improve the economy and improve quality of life. His personal moto is: Happy, Healthy, Wealthy in that exact order, that happens to be core to one if his favorite words, prosperity. He believes the journey is the reward. His mission is to build organizations that combine purpose and profitability with strong effective teams. Peter is an active snowboarder, Mountain Biker and Teaches families how to fish and enjoy the outdoors. He is married to his lifelong partner Leila with two amazing daughters, Brandi the Economist and Amber the Architect.   Show Links: LIBI Podcast Episode One  Rainforest Alberta Rainforest Energy Corp.  Peer Guidance  Tip of The Spear - Jim Gibson  CORUM Group  Branch-out Neurological Foundation  Intergen  Show Quotes: "[when cycling outside] I have this idea that's pretty straight forward. At minus 10 it's two layers, at minus 20 it's three layers, and at minus 30 your crazy." "Come up with a personal motto that drives you and gets you excited about your day. Mine is happy, healthy, and wealthy, in that specific order." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

As we slide right on into January, it is a new year and a great time to take a fresh look at how to make it a significant year of success for you, your company, and all those new technical resources available. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Show Links: LIBI Podcast  Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

As I record this show, it is the evening of January 1st 2024. If you enjoyed the last episode of 2023, then you might enjoy this one as well. It contains more of my ramblings and thoughts on where technology is going as we head into this New Year with a focus on Blockchain. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Show Links: LIBI Podcast  Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

For the last episode of 2023 I thought it might be fun to speculate on the technology trends that we will all be talking about in 2024. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Show Links: LIBI Podcast  Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Without a new episode in the queue, I came up with an idea to showcase the top 5 episodes that I have hosted in 2023. Hope you enjoy this short trip down memory lane. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Show Links: E204 Al Del Degan Hosts Katia Milrad Segal (KMS Coaching) E210 Al Del Degan Hosts Debbie Butt (In The Know YYC) E220 Al Del Degan Hosts Brown Eagle Belanger (Decolonized Capital) E227 Al Del Degan Hosts Brent Zuber (Virtual Reality) E237 Al Del Degan Hosts Michael Dargie (Make More Creative) Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

When it come to inspirational young adults, you may find that Aryan Panchal is near the top of the list. Incredibly ambitions, hard-working and dedicated, Aryan has made himself comfortable with being uncomfortable and isn't afraid to do whatever it takes to become a better and more successful person. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Aryan Panchal is an international student enrolled in the University of Calgary, majoring in Finance. Having completed two years of university, he took a break for 16 months last May, during which he engaged in four 4-month internships. Aryan is set to return to university in the fall. Upon arriving in Canada two years ago, Aryan lacked work experience, communication skills, and battled self-doubt. However, over time, he built a network in Calgary, worked with various startups, and volunteered to support small businesses. Aryan believes in the value of hard work to achieve ambitious goals and wishes to share his personal journey of overcoming mental barriers. His story includes engaging in unconventional experiments, such as sleeping 30 minutes to 1 hour a day for an entire month, working 22 to 23 hours a day, and maintaining a seven-day workweek without breaks since July of the previous year. Aryan also took on five jobs simultaneously while attempting to build a startup. Through sharing his experiences, he aims to convey how these challenges led him on a journey toward becoming the best version of himself. Show Links: University of Calgary  AltaML  University of Alberta  University of Lethbridge  GoodLawyer  Show Quotes: "You need 100 users that love you, not 1000 users that don't care." "I feel like the mountains were calling me" "been alone since I was 16 when I moved to India by myself" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

When you look at the intersection between art, technology, and business, with an Afro-Indigenous perspective, you usually find out that Art Proctor is there somewhere. In this episode we talk to the man who never says no to a great idea, and is always there when you need him. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Art Proctor is an Afro-Indigenous neurodiverse tech steward, digital transformation analyst, and Indigitech project manager. He possesses a background in the Creative and Screen Sector, effectively bridging the realms of art, technology, and business. Art has a profound passion for promoting social and digital justice and has been a fervent advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion long before it became a trend. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Indigitech Destiny Ottawa Museum - Hip Hop exhibit  SAIT  IATSE Union  Rainforest Alberta  Platform Calgary  Show Quotes: "I'm so happy that the NFT craze has, like, tanked and has been exposed as a complete Ponzi scheme." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Phil Crocker's brain moves so fast, not even he can keep up with it. In this episode we hear how Phil's career path was all over the place until he realized that he could see the connection between business and technology in a way that others rarely did. Now he is on a path to help guide businesses in making smart technology decisions that actually save them money, and become more efficient.  Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Phil Crocker SaaS Transformation and Migration | AWS Certified Solutions Architect Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Arcus Cloud Services ChatGPT  AutoGPT  Show Quotes: "Three out of four VC funded traditional ISVs don't return a dime to their investors."   Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Jeff Krehmer is a mechanical engineer who, after a significant health scare, decided to get all the ideas in his head into a book. Hear how he innovates on a 100 year old concept to suggest solutions to many of the worlds most significant issues. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Jeff Krehmer, P.Eng., is the Author of the upcoming book 'Infinite Resources - How to Sustainably Develop the Arctic, by Supplying Green Hydrogen, Fresh Water, and Healthy Food to the World, while Mitigating the Negative Effects of Anthropogenic Climate Change.' He is President and Chief Engineer at Big Time Engineering Corp. He lives in Central Alberta with his wife and two children.   Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Big Time Engineering Corp.  Infinite Resources Book  Engineers' Dreams by Willy Ley (1950's)  NIST - Chemistry Web Book  OTEC - Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion  Show Quotes: "I think of myself as an inventor at heart so I have a lot of radical ideas in my mind."    "As a side benefit when you run it through the fuel cell, you get water and the other side of it as well as electricity." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Join me and my old friend from junior high school, Michael Dargie for a fun discussion on creativity and innovation, talking about things as diverse as the TRS-80 Color Computer from back in the 80's through to Improv at Loose Moose Theatre, and playing with Nerf dart guns in Virtual Reality.  Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Michael Dargie is a true wordsmith, a guardian of language who valiantly champions the cause of every single word, leaving none abandoned. As the CEO and self-proclaimed 'Creative Zealot' at Make More Creative, a thriving brand intelligence agency nestled in Calgary, [person-name] orchestrates a symphony of creativity. Beyond the boardroom, they're an integral member of The Loose Moose Theatre, infusing their creative spirit into every performance. But the narrative doesn't end there. This visionary mind is also the architect behind the ingenious BrandJitsu™ methodology. Not content with just that, they're a co-founder of the whimsical AI-powered food blog, TheKitchen.ai, and a co-creator of the enigmatic Fightclub for Entrepreneurs. A role as a speaker and mentor for the Canadian Trade Accelerator Program through Calgary Economic Development adds yet another layer to their multifaceted persona. And just to add a dash of daring, they're a seasoned expert when it comes to maneuvering motorcycles. Whether it's an intimate tête-à-tête, a close-knit gathering, or a grand theater, [person-name] strives to kindle the flames of extraordinary living. Their mission: to inspire a departure from the mundane, to nurture unconventional thinking, and to craft narratives using the brushstrokes of creativity. Throughout their illustrious journey, they've collaborated with artists, entrepreneurs, local ventures, and even corporate giants across the globe. Together, they orchestrate the symphony of words and ideas, creating harmonious resonance. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Make More Creative Pierson's Funeral Home Dropbear & Panda Loose Moose Theatre TRS-80 CGP-115 Color Graphic Printer Meta - Oculus Pro Wakefield Brewster - Poetic VR Experience REMIO VA Brayden - Chaos Inc Commander Chris Hatfield TheKitchen.ai with Keegan Dargie Rebel Rebel Podcast  Show Quotes: "If you have a choice, always start positive."   "the thing that's standing out more and more to me lately is people that are just being there, and being truthful."   Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

More and more people are realizing that a fulfilling life is not based on how much stuff you accumulate, but the number of remarkable experiences you have. Join Al Del Degan as he speaks with Rainforest elder, Gary Ellis about how the experience economy is a multi-billion dollar industry and Calgary needs to lead the way. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Gary Ellis is a serial entrepreneur riding his 4th wave. A corporate dude phase, a resort designer phase, a branding architect phase and now all about emerging technology and making ‘places of remarkable experiences' Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Experience Economy Innovation Hub Electronic Arts Bioware Platform Calgary InceptionU Experience Economy Book Active City Collective  Show Quotes: "I'm not sure where the term lunch without lunch came from but we actually did come with lunch, we brought our own lunches back in those days." "I think Rainforest was a great impitus to getting our local ecosystem together and staying together and really proliferating." "We are social animals, we all want to be part of this vibe." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Meet Katerina, a single mom who has had an incredible journey and overcame real hardship with hard work and tenacity to build a better life for her son. Now on an entrepreneurial journey with a much-needed software platform to connect farmers with their customers in a new way.  Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Katerina Strelina is a co-founder of "Local Eats," an online platform connecting farmers and food vendors directly to local customers across Canada. With over 5 years of experience in Alberta's agriculture industry, she is passionate about supporting local businesses and local food systems. Katerina also brings over 15 years of expertise in customer service and sales spanning various B2B and B2C markets. Her background in journalism enables her to effectively communicate and build partnerships to ensure satisfaction for all parties involved. In her leisure time, she enjoys horseback riding, hiking, reading, and taking road trips. She is also a dedicated volunteer at 4:13 Therapeutic Riding Association, providing therapeutic horseback riding to the children with special needs. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Local Eats Everblue Nursery  Show Quotes: "I came there to make money. I didn't come there to build a career, make friends, have fun. I new I needed money, I had no choice." "Like a circus with one artist, you do everything." "From fashion like red carpet sometimes with the high heels, the day after I was in my rubber boots in my military pants and I was walking through the mud." "We only die once, we live every day" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

I have been hanging out virtually with Brent Zuber for several months and I am always impressed with how well researched and intellectual he is. Join us for an in-depth conversation on virtual reality in business.  Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Brent Zuber has had the great fortune to excel within many diverse positions, meet numerous outstanding individuals, and travel across a majority of the Earth's surface for work and pleasure. He adapts to new changes extremely well, and is a dedicated life long learner. Brent is always excited with the discovery of "WOW"! Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Independent Insurance Broker  Lee Ackerman  Barry Pendergast  Ryan Hnetka  Pegasus Imagery  Show Quotes: "It isn't about replacing the hands-on touch of a museum. Just saying before you get there, what are the exhibits you want to see." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Born into the foster care system and growing up a troubled teenager, Brown Eagle spent 12 years in prison and used that time learning and growing. Afterwards, with the help of a key mentor Brown Eagle utilized his life experiences to help others. After losing his job during the lockdowns, Brown Eagle self-taught himself blockchain and programming. Now he has his own company, Decolonized Capital, that is creating a First Nation's Digital Currency and social network to provide identity and true data sovereignty to indigenous people in Canada, and all over the world. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Brown Eagle Belanger As a visionary leader and thought leader in the blockchain and AI industries, Brown Eagle is on a mission to improve the lives of Indigenous people in Canada. With his personal experiences and unique perspective, he founded Decolonized Capital to drive meaningful change and empower Indigenous communities. Brown Eagle's expertise and passion have earned him a seat on the Canadian blockchain consortium committee, where he continues to inspire others and impact the world. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Decolonized Capital  Fundrazr  Show Quotes: "Being predominantly non-indigenous in this [tech] space, it can be very intimidating." "We are an FNDC, a First Nations Digital Currency backed by a real world asset." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

On April 1st, 2011 Laura and her partner, chris put on their first bike swap event to provide a safe place for people to buy, sell, trade, donate bycicles. At that first event, 150 bikes sold in just 20 minutes. Now 12 years later the Alberta Bike Swap is going stronger than ever educating Albertans about bike safety and responsible riding, on top of buying, trading and selling bikes. Each year on the first Saturday in May in Calgary and the second Saturday in May in Edmonton Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry. Guest: Laura Grant Life is a wobble of ups and downs, and I've had my fair share. Woke up from a coma and was diagnosed with MS while in third year Pharmacy at the U of A back in the early 80s, couldn't complete pharmacy so I got a degree as one of three women in math/comp sci. I've done dozens of things in my life; I was the water analyst for Alberta, won the Federal Certificate of Merit for my volunteer contribution to Canadian society while parenting, left a starter husband, wrote a carbon offset, read every day that I wasn't blind (MS, remember?), and helped the disenfranchised every step of the way. Life is about giving and helping, not money.  I have 5 industrial design registrations (patent) on several things, including; bike racks through CIPO (Canadian Industrial Patent Office), bike swap software, and an RV protection product as well. Thinking outside the box to find solutions may be my forte, plus connecting people. I'm proud to be a UN SHEInnovator and judge for StartUp Canada. In real life I'm a multi-tasker, idea gal, and strategic thinker who provides unique solutions. Software Product Manager, Process Analyst, Technical Writer / Editor, Educator and Trainer, all combined with genuine politeness and kindness. My superpower is bringing people together, no matter how disparate.  Specialties: processes, analyses, technical writing / editing, designing (I have 5 industrial design hardware and software patents), project managing, real science (toxicology - I was the water analyst for AB), anything green without greenwashing - from phytoremediation to GHG. Super User for software products, SharePoint Administrator / O365, and G-Suite. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Alberta Bike Swap  CanBike Education in Alberta  Bike Index  Decathlon (use robots) YouTube video of bike swap Bicycles for Humanity  Helcim  Goodlawyer  Show Quotes: "Too soon old, too late smart." "Your not going to go to Joe's garage to learn first aid, so learn [how to bike] from CanBike" "[Keep the] Rubber Side Down" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Alberta Bike Swap Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Messele Ghebreslassie, a self-proclaimed geek, found success as a software developer after enrolling and completing an upskilling program through InceptionU. Taking nearly a year to find a full-time job, he never gave up and eventually landed a remote software development position that he really enjoys. Messele is now focusing on Java programming but is also exploring the world of AR and VR. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Messele Ghebreslassie grew up with a love for computers from an early age. He was fortunate enough to have access to a family computer while growing up. His love for technology and computers never completely faded away but did fall to background. He later found an appreciation for cars and decided to pursue that as a career.  Messele learned to appreciate the nuances of a seasoned professional over an eager beginner when it comes to completing any procedure. The professional uses foresight, attention to detail and plans for failure before even beginning a repair. That was one of the major takeaways he learned from his peers while working as a mechanic and he carries that with him in all that he does.  Messele stumbled across some programming e-books on reddit and that started me down a rabbit hole of self-study for almost a year. Later discovering the InceptionU Full Stack Developer Program he felt he was ready to take the plunge. Messele is extremely grateful to staff at InceptionU for providing such a great learning environment, and helping him become the developer he is today. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: InceptionU  Show Quotes: "So for me it was kind of like joining led Zeppelin or something like that. Like I could kind of try and keep up with them, but it was good to be surrounded by so much talent"    Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this episode we have Shannon Phillips back to talk about innovation management and what it means to be an innovative company. Shannon is fascinated by people and how they think and he wants to challenge everyone to look at how they innovate and why. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Shannon Phillips with a Bachelor of Biomedical Science, thinks like a scientist to better understand human behavior and decision making.  He's your go-to for innovation management, organizational change management and organizational behavior strategic planning, and innovation. He's also trained in different psychology concepts, such as behavioral psychology, emotional intelligence, and personality psychology.    Shannon loves thinking outside the box and challenging others to do so. He's people-focused and is always trying to understand why people do what they do. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Unbounded Thinking Innovation Forecasting Podcast Episode 161 of the LIBI Podcast with Shannon & Tristan  Episode 181 of the LIBI Podcast with Shannon & Tristan  Show Quotes: "we love saying it when we talk about what it is or how do we actually approach it, it's a trickier thing to answer. I think of that in terms of the growth cycle of a business. So whenever we're in a startup, we think everything is innovative because everything is new"    "All these people who are leaving these large organizations to go start their own company because they didn't feel like they could go to work and push that rice down the slide and make life easier."   Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

From web developer to seasoned police officer and back to a focus on digital strategy and software solutions, Ryan Hnetka has travelled the world as a digital nomad. With his unique team of remote geniuses, Ryan remains passionate about helping companies take their idea and bring it to a successful reality.  Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Ryan Hnetka has been building websites and more since '96! That's over 23 years of experience of watching the technology and options grow into useful tools to build new ideas and solve business problems. During those 23 years, like most entrepreneurs, he went and got a side hustle to help pay the bills...unlike most entrepreneurs, his side hustle was being a Police Officer in Regina, Saskatchewan. After spending most of the pre-pandemic time travelling around the world working on some amazing projects, his post-pandemic location is now Airdrie (Calgary) and focus has turned towards the startup and local community in Alberta. SaaS HQ, which Ryan is the Founder & COO, offers a comprehensive range of digital solutions, including consultation services for SaaS platforms, mobile app and website development, Enterprise middleware integration services and support, as well as digital marketing services to help you effectively promote your business online. He would love to join you on your next adventure from idea to a successful reality. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: The SaaS Headquarters Work Nicer  Running Remote Conference (digital nomads)  Time Doctor  Dan Martel  Digital Nomad conference  Arthur Digital  Show Quotes: "I call it a workcation. It's like a vacation, but there's always some work involved and work has to come first."    "I felt like I was the car salesman on the lot. Someone walked onto the lot, said here's a brief case of $40,000. I want that car. I sell them the car and gave them the keys. They smashed it into the wall across the street and then they come back, tell me they didn't actually have a driver's license and it's my fault for selling them the car."   Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Debbie is a passionate Calgary innovation ecosystem community member. Her curiosity and willingness to give back led her to building a valuable curated event calendar to help people get out of their comfort zone and experience the value of relationship building while networking. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Debbie Butt is an accountant by day, YYC Tech community Builder and technology enthusiast by night. For the first 20+ years of her career she was an accountant in the oil/gas industry but 6 years ago she attended her first datathon hosted by Data for Good YYC and that set her on a path of attending events and meeting people in Calgary's Innovation Ecosystem. She is the founder of  INTHEKNOWYYC, a website that informs technology & business owners, employees and enthusiasts of the popular tech, business and energy related events being held in Calgary. Debbie has earned her credibility by participating in 100's of technology and business events over the last 4 years. Her passion is communicating to interested parties the value and benefits in attending these events. During the day she works as an accountant at Neo Financial and in the evenings she is uploading relevant events to her website. If you see her at an event please come up to say hello but be for warned.....she might talk your ear off about Calgary's Innovation Ecosystem or what it like to work at Neo Financial and how much she loves it. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: In The Know YYC Neo Financial Data For Good YYC Chic Geek Civic Tech YYC Calgary UX Product Calgary Platform Calgary Alberta Women Entrepreneurs Business Link InceptionU Rainforest Alberta NPower Canada ATB Entrepreneur Centre Show Quotes: "But the main thing I think that I didn't realize until years later is relationship building is so natural and so easy to me, and I never really understood the importance of it."    "I really believe that Calgary has a gem of a city, and I totally believe that we are the place to live and to be. Especially if you want to be in this city and all the resources that we have and the people that are here that wanna help out." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Join Meghan and I as we chat about how open conversation can help people be more aware of how they interact with others to make everyone feel safe and welcome. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Meghan Donohoe has spent her career creating learning experiences that help leaders unleash the potential of their teams. She especially loves to reimagine the way we work, and has been afforded the unique opportunity to build and launch the full lifecycle of employee talent and development programs across Oil & Gas and Post-Secondary organizations. Propelled by a quest to find meaningful ways to transform the experience of work and learning, Meghan pivoted her career in 2021 from Human Resources to the world of advanced digital technology. She spends her time exploring ways for humans and technology to collaborate, to enhance the way we learn, lead, and live.   Meghan completed her MSc in Industrial Organizational Psychology at Saint Mary's University in Halifax, NS and is (endlessly) pursuing a PhD in I/O Psychology on the topic of leadership and well-being. In her spare time, Meghan engages leaders and entrepreneurs in developing the leadership characteristics needed for the future, is exploring facilitation in the metaverse, and also enjoys baking cookies and having dance parties in princess costumes with her two young daughters. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Rainforest Circles  Industrial Organizational Psychology  James Rhee: The value of kindness at work  Organizational Citizenship  Show Quotes: "how do we make this environment more inclusive for all different types of people and so people feel safe and included and we're going to screw up sometimes and that's okay, but how do we make it a safe place for people to sit to share to say Actually this is not okay"    "You can't just take cocoa and say you are going to act like salt today, like it just doesn't work" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Growing up Ezra Santos wasn't interested in the traditional career options that his parents expected him to follow. Instead, his entrepreneurial mindset and passion lead him to join his friend to create a business that helps companies achieve their digital transformation goals using the Argyle Fox platform. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Ezra Santos is a Devil's advocate with a knack for discovering the obvious, intuitive and deceptively simple. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Argyle Fox Show Quotes: "a lot of times we would run into a problem that required a tech solution and the solution didn't exist. So we'd create it, we'd build it from scratch."    "I think we're gonna unleash the power of a lot of dreamers and entrepreneurs, and I think that's where the real power is, not the software itself, but unleashing the capability of dreamers and entrepreneurs to do what they want in this free economy that we have." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

After repeatedly being frustrated with the current offerings for residential home cleaning services, three friends decide to take matters into their own hands and set up an innovative marketplace boasting living wages and top notch quality cleaners.  Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Yeonsil Kang, MSW, helps manage the mission and vision of Home Spritz and their relationships with cleaners, clients, and investors. She ensures the company is growing and maintaining the core vision of the company. From an education and social work background she focuses on the social vision while managing a for-profit company in a challenging environment. She has been through the Alberta Accelerator by Global 500 and The Alberta Revenue Accelerator by GrowthX both powered by Alberta Innovates. She manages a team of over 40 cleaners, admin, and developers. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Home Spritz Alberta Innovates Show Quotes: "So I remember we had about six different cleaners within the time period of two or three months. And I just simply wasn't comfortable cuz they all knew our door code into our house and their quality wasn't consistent."    "So Covid was quite hard for many people and a lot of industries. But for cleaning a lot of residential cleaning companies went out of business because of that issue." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Home Spritz Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Hot off the tail of last week's episode with Rea Hailley I have a conversation with Katia, who has been helping people figure out who they are, and what they want to be when they grow up. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Katia Milrad Segal is an HR professional who has +10 years of experience in multinational & global companies. She leverages her international HR Expertise to help clients land their dream roles in Canada. As an HR professional & Career Coach, she is passionate about supporting clients to develop the skills needed to be successful in their careers. She does this by delivering high-quality training and providing meaningful advice.  Through her career coaching program, she supports clients in identifying strengths, areas of development, growth mindset, gaining confidence, and enhancing self-awareness. As a result, clients can make meaningful changes in their careers. She also uses her background in psychology to ask insightful questions, and her intuitive listening to help clients understand more about their blocks, fears, and unresolved issues so they can create shifts in their life and career. She encourages clients to land jobs that are the right ones for them. Meaning, jobs that fit into their lifestyle, strengths & core values.   Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Rea Hailley from last weeks episode (203) Show Quotes: "So the first thing that I attempted was creating a group of ladies from my Brazilian community here in Calgary. I was leading this group with two women, and we were creating workshops to discuss about personal development, career development, struggles with immigration. I mean how to fit in, and all this process of big changes in our lives."    "we need to be happy now. Our life is short. We need to understand why we are here, right? We are here for a reason and we can't waste our time stuck." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Not everyone thinks the same way.  Rea Hailley sees business from a different lens and is able to provide wisdom and creativity to help small to medium sized business grow and be more successful. More than that, she is a really interesting person to know and has a lot of amazing stories to share when you have a chance to have a chat with her. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Rea Hailley  After studying Business Management at SAIT, Rea found herself drawn to roles where she could influence business success. As a growth strategist, Rea specializes in identifying growth opportunities and delivering results. Her experience includes establishing and leading a lucrative sponsorship division across three territories in the event space, growing strategic partnerships, and most recently, generating over $40M in revenue at Shopify.  Rea's curiosity drives her to understand her clients' unique challenges. Strong empathy helps her anticipate and address potential concerns before they arise. This helps Rea's clients feel confident that she has researched and considered multiple options and only recommended solutions that facilitate their growth and performance.   Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Katia Milrad Segal - Career Coaching Safe 4 Life Self-Defense Class Ecstasy On Fire - Rea's story in more detail Show Quotes: "It was quite alarming. Coast Guard was not called in. Helicopters were flying above filming the fire. I knew it was pretty serious. Somebody was very late in pulling the fire alarm. I Considered jumping above board because nobody was deploying the lifeboats." "smaller businesses often think that they need to spend thousands of dollars to get to the next level of growth. And they don't" "I speak to business owners every day, all day. One of the biggest concerns is this potential recession that people are anticipating for this year. Don't let this cripple you. There's opportunity here." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

The LIBI Podcast normally showcases a guest that is contributing to the innovation ecosystem. However this is episode 200, and I thought it might be a good time to talk about Rainforest Alberta itself and who better to do that than the Community Manager and the Community Story Teller. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest:  Amber Rowden is digital marketing strategist and storyteller who loves connecting and building community. She works with multiple companies within the YYC tech ecosystem and has helped startups and SMEs grow their businesses through social media campaigns, content creation, graphic design, personalized storytelling, paid advertising, deep-dive analytics, event management and more. She has a background in and passion for theatre. She is an advocate for mental health and the LGBTQ2S+ community and hosts the YYC Queer Innovation Meet-ups to bring the LGBTQ2S+ and innovation community together to collaborate and connect. Guest:  Brigitte Legault is a community and strategy consultant currently working with Rainforest Alberta, TuskHub Inc., and Village Wellth. She is driven by community-led strategies that drive business results and empower its members. Connecting people and resources is her super power!   Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Rainforest Alberta The Rainforest: The Secret to Building the Next Silicon Valley GoodLawyer CRIN Inqli InceptionU 8-Bit Cortex Show Quotes: "we're innovators, so let's stop looking to the past and start looking to the future. And even though we are doing a lot of new initiatives in the rainforest, we're always focused on the core of the movement, which is the social contract" "[re: the Rainforest Social Contract] You know, they're values that every person should incorporate into their life and their professional life. And, yeah, there are quite a few individuals that are living these values already. People that are in the rainforest exemplify them. And there are companies that are taking this on too." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Innovation will leave you in the dust if you don't choose to be a part of it. Jennifer Armand decided to dive right in and learn about web3 technology and NFTs. Her company, Boris Walks Alone Art Inc., helps traditional artists get their work on the blockchain where they can find new revenue streams and explore the intersection between art and technology. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Jennifer Armand is the Owner of Boris Walks Alone Art Inc. which provides technical and marketing expertise aimed at expanding sales of digital and traditional artwork on behalf of the Artists that create them. This service allows the Artist to benefit from the expanded opportunities available to them in the form of NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) on popular cryptocurrency platforms - without having to become an expert in technology.  Jen's goal is to provide this opportunity to as many artists as possible. This past March, Jen with her partners helped create and launch the #T7NFT collection on Opeansea.io from over 24 established artists. Jen built a 3D metaverse gallery to showcase their works and enable anyone with a computer and access to the internet the ability to view and purchase from the collection.  Jen loves tech and helping people. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Boris Walks Alone   Open Sea #T7NFT Collection Show Quotes: "Probably about 12 years ago, I'd always said to the artist, you know, one of these days these files are gonna be where something more." "The power is in the secondary sales, and so when your sale goes through, it is backed on a ledger just like a bank only it's a public ledger, everyone can see it. So when it's sold again royalty then gets brought back to the artist, which is very powerful" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Meet the guy behind the high quality audio of the LIBI podcast. Tony has many talents and most of them are around creativity. He decides he wants to do something and then just goes and figure it out. Get inspired hearing Tony's stories. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Tony Del Degan is a perfectionist, and believes in quality and worth-while art. You'll usually find him carving his own path instead of following those well-traveled. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Tony's Website The Evermore Compendium The Recognition CERES Recycling Styrofoam Community Now Magazine   Show Quotes: "I believe that Lord of the Rings for me is my personal favorite story ever written. And so if I'm going to give my contribution to that genre, it has to be huge. It has to be well thought out and have depth." "If you submit a short story to them, they can get it put into the Calgary Public Library's short story dispensers. And so I submitted that to and they responded and said, oh, well this is really great. We wanna put this in thedispenser. And so I got a confirmation back and then that whole process happened and now that story is available."  Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

They call it the third version of the Internet (web 3), but what does that mean?  What is the Metaverse? Join Al Del Degan and guest Sid Sharma as they unpack this complicated new world. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Sid Sharma is a co-founder and CEO of REHUMAN Inc. a decentralized identity & metaverse company with a mission to build an inclusive and equitable global digital economy. REHUMAN is based in the US, Canada, and Africa. REHUMAN was founded in 2019 with a dream to make a positive impact in the world through innovative products and philanthropy. And for the past 3 years, REHUMAN Foundation is committed to providing daily meals to 1500 children in Africa, along with funding for the school infrastructure and maintenance.  Sid has over a decade of experience in HR tech, identity management & cybersecurity, He got involved in blockchain development in 2016 starting with Ethereum, and Hyperledger which eventually led him to self-sovereign identity/ decentralized identity/ ToIP in 2018. He is also a contributor at W3C, DIF, and Hyperledger. Sid currently leads the Hyperledger chapter for Alberta and the Western Canada chapter for Government Blockchain Association. Sid is a community builder and a supporter of Alberta's startup ecosystem. In 2019, he launched a western Canada chapter of the Founder Institute. And built a team of over 100 mentors, investors, and ecosystem partners such as Dentons, KPMG, Platform Calgary, Calgary Economic Development, Thin Air Labs, Valhalla Angels, and more. Sid is a champion for diversity, mental health, and inclusive leadership. In his free time, Sid hosts a podcast and a youtube channel. In Dec 2017, RE:HUMAN podcast (formerly JOLSID podcast) was ranked in “the top 48 podcasts in the world for entrepreneurs” by Entreprenur.com. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: reHuman Inc. reUniverse Founders Institute Show Quotes: "You go to places and basically they want so much information about you or they won't even do background checks on you. They just look at you and just because you don't look like the usual demographics, you don't get the same opportunity." "So many people move to this country and they're educated doctors and physicians and stuff, and we have shortage of those people, but they drive cabs, so somebody's failing them" "The late majority only adopts things when user experience has been simplified. And right now user experience sucks in Web3" "If we really want Alberta to be next level, we have to go back to our roots of being pioneers and taking a little bit risk as opposed to we have to be political this, political that. And sometimes you just have to do it." "From a creator's perspective, you, you have to think about it. Have we done enough to protect our kids?" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

If you are looking for a path to successful passive investing then look no farther than Kenton Shouldice. Straight-forward, no-nonsense education and guidance on how to be like the squirrels. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Kenton Shouldice is a CFA Charterholder with over 13 years of experience in the investment management industry. Most recently, as Vice President of Portfolio Management at Fiera Capital where he oversaw $3 billion in High Net Worth client assets. Founded Shouldice Wealth in 2016 to bring integrated wealth management services, typically only available to high net worth individuals, to the emerging affluent. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Shouldice Wealth Show Quotes: "at the very least, if I can get this book in front of a child and just instill the habit of saving for the future, the other things can come." "Over a 15 year period or longer, 90% of active managers underperform the benchmark."  "We all feel panic and fear, and that affects our decision making. Now, when we're under stress, we lose 10 IQ points, I think is the study. So we can't necessarily distrust our, our heads or our emotions in these times. So that's where becoming a probability based investor is, is the key to success." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Geoff Zakiab and Uriel Karerwa are making the digital world more inclusive through their new not-for-profit startup IncluCity that provides user testing with a pool of very diverse testers. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Geoff Zakaib is a community organizer with a strong interest in data and technology. Over the last 10 years he has been involved in a number of initiatives that span the public, private and social sectors. He is a Director of Data for Good and the organizer of the Calgary chapter. He co-founded CivicTechYYC and has helped to build the civic tech ecosystem across Canada. Geoff is one of the founders of IncluCity Calgary and is a partner in the Centre for Social Impact Technology. Guest: Uriel Karerwa is the project coordinator at IncluCity Calgary, an organization devoted to the inclusion of diverse and underrepresented voices in the design of technology. Uriel is responsible for coordinating the usability tests, the volunteer UX researchers, and the network of communities in Calgary that are consulted in the inclusion-centered design model. Uriel has a background in Neuroscience, has worked with Neurodiverse groups, and has a history of coordinating community-geared initiatives. Former radio host and podcaster, he's also presented on the TEDx stage, sharing his own atypical neurological development. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: CivicTechYYC Data for Good Volly Volunteer App Civic User Testing Vivacity Calgary UX The Digital Accessibility Handbook Show Quotes: "it really does require efforts from everybody and people that are willing to get involved to provide that diverse group of testers and we would do that recruiting for you and conducts the usability tests, all the while keeping in contact with our client organization to make sure that everything is as intended, as expected" "user design and usability testing is not new. Like we're not suggesting that it is right. So our value proposition, what we bring to the table is that built in inclusive, diverse group of testers. That's really hard to build." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

In this first episode of a new series that I am calling "Where are they now", I once again connect with Jim Gibson, who I originally interviewed back on episode 32 on September 24th, 2019. A lot has happened since then and Jim has some new insight into the current tech job scene. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Jim Gibson believes we are entering a new era of Innovation and Disruption that is being fueled by exponential technologies and challenged by our centuries old linear models of organization.  Jim knows this because it has been his life's work and he has put all of this down in his recently published book, Tip of the Spear: Our Species and Technology at a Crossroads. Jim has spent 30 years being at the center of technology's evolution and adoption across the world. He has formed companies in spaces that didn't exist prior to starting the business. He has succeeded – in varying ways and degrees - in most, and failed in some. Jim has been on the front lines of the very complex and difficult process of building real companies. He has put his company's payroll on his VISA and has raised millions in start-up capital. Complementing his entrepreneurial and capital investment is his Management Consultant designation (CMC) along with a Bachelor of Commerce in accounting and an MBA in Finance. With this Jim understands both the accounting and the real balance sheets of the companies with whom he engages.  With Jim's recent work he has come to appreciate that some of the best technologies, innovations and breakthroughs will come from places in our global economy where we least expect.  At this stage of his life, Jim is delighted to be able to freely move about the world but he is keen to the challenge of our local innovation ecosystems. He can work from anywhere. He has traveled extensively throughout the world and is naturally empathetic and culturally sensitive.  Jim is open to new approaches to compensation and reward where risk is matched with return. He wants to generate wealth that includes new experiences, social good and being part of a change agenda for a global firm.   Jim looks forward to the next decade of establishing new ways of working – for himself and for the large, medium and small companies he will engage with across the world. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Episode 32 of the LIBI Podcast with Jim Gibson Jim Gibson Author Jim Gibson on Twitter SAIT SADT Show Quotes: "in those situations you have to really be confident. And I I'll tell you, the first year was challenging, but it turns out it was not challenging because the institution was not like me or I wasn't like them. We are standing up a brand new school in the middle of a pandemic." "I don't wanna get too controversial here, but in rainforest philosophy, you gotta give before you take, and so this was a perfect catalyzing opportunity." "I'm leaning in hard on that one as a cross initiative to say, how do we build? And, students with this notion of being a better digital citizen. What does that mean? So every SAIT graduate comes out and goes I understand what it means to be agile, to be, you know safe and secure" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Hamid Rafiei was one of those kids that loved to take things apart, figure out how they worked, and sometimes successfully put them back together with some new features that didn't exist before. This lead him to a career working with manufacturing and automation where he currently holds the role of VP Manufacturing for CoolIT Systems. Learn about implementing robots to automate a production line and the benefits of onshore manufacturing in this episode. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Hamid Rafiei Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Electrical and Computer Engineering  As the Vice President of Manufacturing, Hamid drives production and manufacturing engineering teams for new product, process introductions, and integrated automation ensuring a smooth and efficient transition from design engineering to manufacturing production. His valuable leadership to his team guides the efficient development and implementation of product and process improvements of new and existing DLC products. Hamid is focused on a continuous improvement mindset. He firmly believes in measuring the effectiveness of processes, studying trends, and improving the manufacturing process for the journey towards zero defects & perfect on-time performance. Hamid is focused on a continuous improvement mindset. He firmly believes in measuring the effectiveness of processes, studying trends, and improving the manufacturing process for the journey towards zero defects & perfect on-time performance. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Episode 30 of the LIBI Podcast with Brydon Gierl CoolIT Systems Show Quotes: "Seeing how fast things move. That was the first learning point for me coming from a very large  multibillion dollar company and seeing how the business is running there, joining a smaller company who's growing increasingly fast." "There were some funny moments during that implementation and we finally find out that some of the things you can make it easier by just going to something as simple as a gravity conveyor instead of a robot that you would be able to place a component, have it travel from point a to point B" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Over the years there has been a lot of businesses that have grown from the Rainforest, and long-time Rainforester, Heiko Peters, remembers the early days and how they lead to him wanting to give back to the community. Alethea Medical grew from that effort, and now helps so many people receive help from medical specialists in a fraction of the time it used to take. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Heiko Peters has been involved in all aspects of the project and software development lifecycle for 20+ years as a Developer, Technical Lead, Project Manager, Management Consultant, Executive, and Entrepreneur.  Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Alethea Medical Show Quotes: "So 66 is the year that that Fortran came out, Right? So we're dealing with a language now older than me. So that was interesting. And actually it was so old that it still thought it used punch cards. It actually had this C wrapper around it that took the text file and converted it back into the punch card format that the simulator was expecting." "I start pushing transformation. It runs contrary to what they're comfortable with. Now, what they're comfortable with is what got them to where they are right now. But anyways, so eventually they get tired of me. And so I got tired of arguing with people to make them successful despite themselves and decided I was gonna make myself successful despite myself." "So what's really weird is that the environment here is actually, I think people don't realize, it's actually much bigger than most people realize. I don't even think we even know the number. I remember Zumwalt saying it's like somewhere between 300 and 700 small companies." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

The internet has come a long way since it first began. What started as a hodge podge of individual web pages has transformed into the interactive web2 that we know today. With web3, the internet is taking yet another step forward by decentralizing ownership. This means that nobody owns anything - it belongs to everyone. You get to decide what information you give away, rather than having to give up personal data in exchange for access to a service. Al and Colin are on a mission to help 1 million Canadians understand web3 and crypto. Hear them explain how this new version of the internet has the potential to change our world and economy for the better.

AJ Robles set out with intention to find a place to work that aligned with his values, and where he could bring his genuine self every day. Having found his place at Helcim, he now shares some great advice for others who are on their job search journey. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: AJ Robles AJ Robles works at Calgary based startup, Helcim - Whose mission is to be the most loved payments company. Now working as the People & Culture Partner, he's been with Helcim for just over 5 1/2 yrs and started on their customer service team. His journey is not uncommon these days sharing the story of transitioning from another industry and finding his place in an exciting tech company. 5 1/2 yrs later and he's still feeling right at home with Helcim. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Helcim Helcim Founder Nic Beique on the LIBI Podcast Show Quotes: "if I really want to find a place that really aligns with who I am and my own values, I have to make that intentional instead of applying for another job." "It is competitive and you're competing with people who have taken programs or gone through their traditional schooling, but haven't really had any work experience. But you do, you know how that works. You know how to communicate well and you can bring that to the table." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

The world of finance has not changed much until 2009 when blockchain and cryptocurrencies began to change the way we look at money. Pam Draper leads a company that has embraced this new technology and made it simple and accessible for all Canadians.   For the transcription of this episode please visit: https://www.rainforestab.ca/yyc-blog/podcast-episode-172-transcription Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Pamela Draper is the President and CEO of Pateno Payments Inc., a firm that provides development solutions in the payments space, as well as the President and CEO of Bitvo Inc., a crypto asset trading platform launched in Canada in 2018. Prior to joining Pateno and Bitvo, Pamela spent approximately 14 years with top tier Canadian banks, in the areas of corporate and investment banking. Most recently Pamela held the position of Director in BMO Capital Markets' Equity Capital Markets group in Toronto where she was responsible for assisting North American corporate clients raising capital in public and private markets. Pamela obtained an Honours Business Administration degree from the Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario. Current voluntary positions include acting as a Director for the Canadian Blockchain Association for Women and for the Calgary Public Library Foundation. Pamela also serves as an Advisory Committee Member to Rallie, a financial technology company on a mission to get more women investing. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Bitvo Pateno Payments The Quadriga Scandal Show Quotes: "a lot of cryptocurrency platforms we're looking for banking in Canada. And the main one of the time was a company called Quadriga. A lot of people are very familiar with Quadriga, but if you're not Google it, or there's actually an interesting Netflix series on it now called "Trust No One". And it became infamous for the founder, Gerald Cotten, disappearing to India and dying in India of Crohn's disease, so the story goes. But when he did so he took with him $250 million of customer crypto assets." "A lot of the crypto asset trading platforms when they started, they started more from the tech perspective and the tech is, is definitely important, but there's a whole side of things from a safety and security perspective that comes from being experienced in handling other people's funds and learning the regulations, which at the time when we started, there were no regulations. Now we're actually a heavily regulated business." "his speech was so what I needed to hear. So if anyone else needs to hear that, there going to be crazy highs and crazy lows? And the crazy highs can follow the crazy lows by milliseconds a day or a year." "cryptocurrencies get kind of a bad rap, but I think of you could sign up for BMO Investor Line Platform or Quest Trade, et cetera. And by a junior mining or a junior oil and gas stock, or some other emerging technology, and be just as at risk as if you're buying any of the cryptocurrencies" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Combining her experience in the beauty industry with her background in science, a student of the Platform Catalyzer program, Rana Hyatt set out to solve a problem that has been a significant and expensive issue worldwide. For the transcription of this episode please visit: https://www.rainforestab.ca/yyc-blog/podcast-episode-170-transcription Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Rana Hyatt. Having spent decades in the beauty industry combined with her science background, Rana see's first-hand the necessity and potential of technological innovation in the industry. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Links: Solis  Show Quotes: "You're like, oh, I need to clean these. And then you put your makeup on. And then you put your brushes away and your makeup away. And then the next day, when you come back to put on your makeup, you're like, oh yeah, I forgot. I need to clean these. And then the cycle just repeats. It's this awful cycle." "I was ambitious and be like, we're going to be ready in six months. And they're like, you're not going to be ready at all." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Learn the origin story of the greatest developer meetup ever created and the nerd who is responsible for it. Tony Grimes shares his obsession with Pixels & Pints. For the transcription of this episode please visit: https://www.rainforestab.ca/yyc-blog/podcast-episode-160-transcription Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Tony Grimes is a Contract programming instructor for SAIT and InceptionU. Founder and organizer of the Pixels and Pints Meetup group. Lover of space, pinball and making things. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Quotes: "That was the funnest part about running events, is, they do all the work for you. Your job is to create the room, you know the guidelines are not, you know, explicit. We don't have rules of like, this has to be a safe space. You just make it a safe space by having it be a safe space, Right? And that was one of the things that I'm fairly good at, is the talking and the charisma and all of that, so that was a lot of fun." "We've got a lot of seniors, intermediate and some juniors, because there always is the, the idea of finding a job. That's what networking events are kind of all about. But when we did the online ones, because I was a teacher, it was mostly my students, InceptionU students, it was my SAIT students, which is awesome, it's just not the type of event that Pixels was known for." Links: Pixels & Pints Meetup Group Pixels & Pints on Twitter Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Assembly Coworking Space Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

Ross Lockwood is a fascinating guy.  He spent four months on Mars... well not literally, and has a PHD in Condensed Matter Physics.  Ross believes in focusing on what interests you until you are pretty good at it, then switching to something else.  Ross is proof that all your interests can build upon each other and open doors that you may not have known of before. For the transcription of this episode please visit: https://www.rainforestab.ca/yyc-blog/podcast-episode-154-transcription Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Ross Lockwood is a problem solver, from quantum to cosmological complexity. As a classically trained physicist his toolbox includes graduate-level mathematical analysis, high-level programming languages, advanced computer aided-design software, precision measurements tools, and the communication skills to share the stories with impact.  Ross' recent work with KPMG has focused on applying analytics to large scale business problems; procuring and cleaning data, developing machine learning models, and generating visualizations and reports. His PhD in Condensed Matter Physics was awarded as a result of Ross' research into the light emitting properties of silicon quantum dots. His thesis was based on the characterization of single-electron defects on the quantum dot surface, which played a dominant role in band shifting and luminescence quenching. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Quotes: "I figured I'll take a general science approach and I got to university, I took my first physics course and I said, I'm not going to be a doctor anymore. At least I'm not going to be a medical doctor. And I went on the full steam physics path, starting right after my first year undergraduate." "so this HI-SEAS simulation is actually like a Mars habitat that's been built out on the mountain side of the Mauna Loa volcano in Hawaii. And they have been running studies since roughly 2012, um, in conjunction with the University of Hawaii and NASA, who provides funding, to do Mars ground simulations" "at the end of my physics career, I was like, you know what, I've kind of reached the end of what I consider physics to be. I could go into research and I could narrow my focus even further, but it never felt right to me to confined myself to that box" Links: Ross' blog site: http://spincrisis.com/elementary-my-dear-martian Ross' Twitter: https://twitter.com/spincrisis Amazon 4WD Raspberry Pi Robot Car Kit: https://amzn.to/3tOWLkB Home Assistant - Open Source home automation: https://www.home-assistant.io Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Assembly Coworking Space Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

From warehouse worker to junior developer to senior technology leader to video game developer, Darren Machalek has had an incredible career journey. Learning that there is more to life than money, Darren inspires us to look at passion above experience when you want to hire good people. For the transcription of this episode please visit: https://www.rainforestab.ca/yyc-blog/podcast-episode-152-transcription Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Darren Machalek is the owner and Managing Director of Metawe, an IT Professional with over 15 years of experience in Information Technology, Project Management, and Leadership. A results-driven, collaborative leader who focuses on empowering and inspiring team members to achieve project and business objects. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Quotes: "I love creativity, creative aspects. I love being a programmer. I love business. Like I learned so much about business and I'm PMP certified. I love projects. There must be a career out there that does all this. And sure enough, there is... video games" "Nowhere did I recoup the costs that it took for my personal time. If I did the math on how much I spent, like personal time on it, I would have made about a dollar an hour. So I could go get a minimum wage job and still make, you know, 15 times more than I would as a game developer." Links: Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business Achimostawinan Games Pe Metawe Games Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Assembly Coworking Space Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan  

This is the first episode of 2022 and I thought it would be fun to share ten of my favorite episodes that aired in 2021. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan

Coming from a career in finance with Investment Banking and then being coerced into joining the massively successful food delivery company, Myles Shedden learned a lot about how to scale a business.  Also that it is quite different from starting one.  His new company, Chroma was created to solve a big problem in a very under-served market, that of Renters.  Learn how Myles thinks he may just have a great solution for those who don't yet own their own home and still have to deal with monthly rent payments. For the transcription of this episode please visit: https://www.rainforestab.ca/yyc-blog/podcast-episode-149-transcription Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Myles Shedden loves building products and companies that solve problems, and he gets even more excited when they solve economic and social issues at the same time. His background was originally in finance, starting his career in investment banking with RBC Capital Markets in Calgary, and then moving on to a private equity firm called TriWest Capital Partners, in Calgary as well, before moving to a small food delivery company called SkipTheDishes where Myles ran courier operations and then global operations.  Myles left Skip with some colleagues at the end of 2020 to found Chroma, a platform that makes renting convenient, flexible and rewarding.   Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Quotes: "...the reality is with housing, price increases, outpacing income growth. It looks like home ownership might not be a reality or not as, as soon for a lot of different people in different families. And we want to play a role in, in trying to at least make rent more convenient, flexible and rewarding experience. " "For anyone who's on the ground floor of technology in Alberta, something very, very exciting is happening." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Assembly Coworking Space Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan

Danielle has been through a lot, but she has always had a passion for computer programming. Not making it through traditional means, she had given up on her plans until the end of the road lead her right to the InceptionU Full Stack Developer program. For the transcription of this episode please visit: https://www.rainforestab.ca/yyc-blog/podcast-episode-147-transcription Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Danielle Barker is an avid Scrabble enthusiast and software developer.  After years of mostly creating software as a hobby and as a volunteer, they took the leap of making a career out of it.  She is now one of the technical facilitators of the InceptionU Full Stack Developer program as well as doing contract development work for projects she is passionate about.  Besides scrabble, they enjoy playing many other games including Magic the Gathering and the Fallout video game series. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Quotes: "I lost my, my job as a school bus driver. That was my last job I had. Kind of just a bunch of other bad things happened at the same time and just kind of hit this point where I just wanted to give up, so I didn't want to go find another job. So I just ended up, taking what money I had and buying a van, and I just lived in the van for six months." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Assembly Coworking Space Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan

Ross Plattel is a really interesting guy.  He is involved in a lot of different things, many of which involve giving back as a volunteer.  He is into technology, urban planning and smart cities.  He knows a whole lot about many things, and in this episode Al Del Degan explore the Internet of Things, education, city planning and much more.  For the transcription of this episode please visit: https://www.rainforestab.ca/yyc-blog/podcast-episode-146-transcription Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Ross Plattel has been an avid Rainforester since 2019 and has regularly attended Lunch w/o Lunch along with volunteering to help Rainforest Alberta manage and facilitate online events. In his day job, he works for both the University of Calgary and SAIT in supporting their online courses and online webinars. After starting with SAIT he has also worked on the development, testing, and initial deployment of SAIT's first micro-credentials. Outside of work, Ross volunteers as one of the Co-Leads for CivicTechYYC ( https://civictechyyc.ca/,  https://www.meetup.com/CivicTechYYC-Tech-for-Good/), organizing events monthly for the group of volunteers who work together on urban-related technology projects. As a graduate from the UofC in Urban Studies, Ross continues to research smart cities and the impacts of technology on the urban fabric. Other more recent research has included the impacts of climate-induced human migration. Ross loves going on walks exploring and ideating about the ever-changing urban environment and enjoys biking through Calgary's bike lanes and pathways. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Quotes: "A lot of the architecture firms had no idea what I was talking about. I even asked them about, uh, VR and augmented reality integration within their design processes. And there was one firm that said like, oh yeah, we have like a computer. We couldn't get working in the back room. And we don't think it's going to be a big thing." "When you have a sensor that's embedded inside of a concrete wall, it's not really that easy to fix, but at least it gives five years that they can monitor what that's looking like." "And also we're noticing in university with teaching online that the introverts are the ones that are doing better in the online environment. And it's the extroverts that are having a really hard time." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! Magazine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan

Did you know that less than 2% of polystyrene products are recycled even though they are among the most easily recycled plastics?  Robert Herritt shares his story about learning how easily Styrofoam can be recycled into new products, avoiding the landfill.  We also learn how municipalities have not been eager to get involved, even though is is the right thing to do. For the transcription of this episode please visit: https://www.rainforestab.ca/yyc-blog/podcast-episode-142-transcription Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Robert Herritt is a serial entrepreneur for 20 years. From airline pilot background to Eco-innovator. President of Calgary-based StyroGo, Robert is helping put Canada on the world map in leading the charge to a zero plastic waste future. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Quote: "as a secondary benefit, I came to realize that whenever they have a shortfall of Styrofoam, as feedstock, what they do then is they use wood, for presses. So the secondary benefit of recycling Styrofoam is you're displacing the use of wood in manufacturing. So it was kind of a secondary green effect there where they're not  cutting down trees for manufacturing, they're using a plastic." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! Magazine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan

Another InceptionU grad, Navin Jetha pivoted her career from computer science, to being a mom, then to fitness leadership and now back to tech.  Still passionate about yoga, health & wellness and energy healing, she hopes to have her own side business while being able to work in the tech industry.  For the transcription of this episode please visit: https://www.rainforestab.ca/yyc-blog/podcast-episode-140-transcription Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Navin Jetha was educated in computer science and worked in that field for more than a decade before getting laid off. She then found a new career in fitness leadership educating people in various forms of exercise from water fitness classes to yoga. Now she is pivoting back into tech and viewing it through the lens of physical and mental health.  Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Links from this episode: InceptionU - Evolve - Full Stack Developer Program Show Quote: "When I first took the task, I would take off in the morning at 9:15, I would say, okay, I'm going to take this task on. In my mind is going off saying, well, how are you going to do this task? You have no clue how to do it? But there was a part of me that said, I'm just going to take it and do it anyways." "I really believe that, whatever career we choose. Whatever path we choose in our lives. Our health will always have to be taken care of." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! Magazine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan

Another InceptionU grad, Diego Gomez, takes us through what it was like to come from modest roots and fully take advantage of Canadian government programs and funding to transform his life.  Now as an ambitious full-stack software developer, he is hoping to use his skills and passion to serve the tech ecosystem.  For the transcription of this episode please visit: https://www.rainforestab.ca/yyc-blog/podcast-episode-137-transcription Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Guest: Diego Gomez is adventure and challenge driven. He has always enjoyed having the ability to make his own path, listen to others, make mistakes and continually grow. Diego enjoys doing different and interesting things in his life, such us backpacking or tree planting, as well as sports at professional and also recreational levels.  From working in regular 9-5 jobs to taking the occasional training course, up to his recent software development bootcamp, he has always strived to get as much as possible from the opportunity at hand, perform to the best of his ability and enjoy every second of it. Now at 26, he can't wait to gain valuable experience in the tech industry to further improve himself and learn things that today he doesn't know he will learn... just yet. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Links from this episode: InceptionU - Evolve - Full Stack Developer Program Show Quote: "I think I've been somebody who has always looked for this sort of support from the government and agencies, because not only they're there for you to, use and take advantage of, but at the same time, you're there for a reason. And I feel like they're there for the opportunity." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! Magazine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan

Scott Luxton has a background in business and in sales in the logistics industry, and has also been a chef in the past.  He has recently graduated from the InceptionU Evolve program and is looking to pivot his career into technology.  With his team, for his final class project, they built a responsive mobile application to navigate Calgary's +15 system (a series of connected bridges that join many of the buildings in downtown Calgary).   Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Scott Luxton I am a passionate “outside the box” thinker with a growth mindset seeking to join a highly collaborative, adaptive, diverse, and innovative team.  Recently I have been successful in account management and business development roles and I truly enjoy facilitating growth and innovation between clients and businesses with aligned goals and values.  Having recently completed the InceptionU full stack development program I am seeking a position where I can integrate the many business skills I have developed in nearly fifteen years of account management and business development with my recent technical training. My skills align perfectly with the requirements for client success, product management and sales support type roles and I am very excited to be pursuing such opportunities. My family has deep roots in the Calgary / Banff region and I sit as a volunteer director on the Eleanor Luxton Historical Foundation.  As a foundation our mandate is to preserve built heritage in the Banff / Bow Valley region, in particular the Beaver Street homes in Banff.  Along with maintaining and sharing these five physical structures we are committed to providing educational opportunities through our museum and programing, as well as archival access for research and study. One of the projects I am most proud of is our foundations collaboration with the "Bison Belong" organization which saw the return of the mighty buffalo to Banff National Park in 2017!!! Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Links from this episode: +15 Navigation Application: https://youtu.be/NG-t8qX4O2E Show Quote: Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! Magazine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan

Nikita is a university educated Music Major graduate who pivoted her career into tech becoming a Full-stack Software Developer through the InceptionU - Evolve program. Music helped develop her mind to work well with patterns and focus. Now she is looking forward to a career in software development. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Nikita George Hi! My name is Nikita and I have a background in Music, ESL teaching, programming and design. I am eager to learn new things, whether it is new skills or personal things in life! I like to make new connections, put a smile on people's faces, and make new chapters in my life! Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Links from this episode: Lindsay Sterling: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyC_4jvPzLiSkJkLIkA7B8g InceptionU: https://www.inceptionu.com/ Show Quote: Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! Magazine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan System Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - Chase Telecom Inc.  

Show Summary Rafael was originally educated in business and then pivoted into becoming a professional chef. After years of working in that profession, a repetitive strain injury caused him to look at what other options are available and he discovered a bootcamp that could turn him into a software developer. Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Rafael Hernandez Alarcon Full Stack Developer | Bachelor in Business Administration | Chef instructor and food lover | Lifelong learner | Customer Service Ninja. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Quote: "I shouldn't let the imposter drive the car" "It has been 20 years since I finished business, and I am coming back to all the things that I studied [back] then. " Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! Magazine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan System Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - Chase Telecom Inc.  

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Adam Casole-Buchanan is originally a small-town farm kid from Orangeville, Ontario that made his way to Montreal for entrepreneurship, Toronto for big agency life, Berlin for the start-up world, and was displaced to Calgary by love...and C19. Adam writes poetry in his spare time, he a huge fan of logic puzzles, and he goes full nerd over abstract maths. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Summary Adam has lived and worked in Canada and Germany in the advertising industry. We had an interesting conversation about the advertising industry and things that are ripe for innovation and reinvention hint: there are a lot from one end to the other.  Adam now works for briefbid A collaborative platform for marketers, agencies and vendors to connect, plan media and grow brands faster together.   Adam mentioned after the show that the actual quote from Henry Ford was "The man who stops advertising to save money, is like the man who stops a clock to save time." Show Quote: "The true point of innovation is that [...] any small business owner can be their own media agency, media buyer and media planner." "The marketing - advertising process is ripe for innovation at all points in the supply chain." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! Magazine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan System Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - Chase Telecom Inc.  

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Margo Purcell I help organizations and teams to uncover hidden talent; and generate ideas that lead to transformational change . Creative, driven and engaging learning and development professional with over 18 years of progressive achievement in training and development, consulting, public engagement, advocacy, customer service and coaching. As a skilled leader with an established reputation for creating environments for executive teams to shift perspectives; trusted advisor for major corporations to facilitate discussions that lead to achieving desired results in complex and distributed corporate environments. Energy, Higher Education, Not-For-Profit, NGO and other large-scale organizations say; "Margo's presence and facilitation skills were able to help us get unstuck and to clearly see where our team's landscape had to shift and most importantly helped us figure out how to shift it". When you are ready for a different landscape - www.opentopossibilities.ca Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Summary Al chats with Margo about her childhood as a shy, but curious kid always exploring a path of self-discovery. Armed with a growth mindset and insatiable curiosity, with the help of some wonderful mentors along the way, Margo found her calling as a facilitator and coach helping companies get their teams working smoothly and communicating effectively. Show Quote: "This is the difference in how a company performs or not, how their employees engage, or not. We saw that this was what was really, really needed and we needed to be able to think differently to create the solutions that we need for the challenges we face." "It's okay to follow what comes easily to you because it is likely to be meaningful, engaging, and you're going to deliver fantastic value for others." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! Magazine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan System Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - Chase Telecom Inc.  

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Naheed Shivji is a serial entrepreneur and investor. He has invested in his startup cyber security company and has a lot to offer listeners in terms of his journey and success of his IT company, Rafiki Technologies. Naheed is a member of EO Calgary (Entrepreneur’s Organization) and is continuously working with other entrepreneurs while mentoring his team. Due to racial inequality, he has overcome many obstacles and has since implemented the value of diversity within his organization. His organization contributes to diminishing racial barriers and increasing diversity in the IT community and workplace environment. With over 20 years of IT experience, Naheed has brought Rafiki Technologies to where it is today. He is a passionate entrepreneur helping companies understand and embrace technology and is always searching for business best-practices while giving back to the community. Naheed works hands-on with his clients to develop winning IT strategies and smooth implementations. He is constantly learning and adapting to industry trends to maintain Rafiki Technologies’ position as a leading managed IT services company in Canada. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Summary When you have been passionately dealing with technology for as long as Naheed Shivji has, you get to know it pretty well. Join us as we dive into exciting tech topics like cloud computing, cyber security, and what the future might look like. Show Quote: "We also saw a shift where a lot of companies where hesitant moving to the cloud" "Education is a key piece in the cybersecurity policy" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: SAIT School for Advanced Digital Technology Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan System Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - Chase Telecom Inc.

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Zachary Novak Zachary is focused on building shared learning experiences that empower others to reach their potential. His approach is focused on continuous discover, shipping often, and testing / iteration. He started his career in investment banking, advising senior management teams on over $30 billion of strategic financial transactions. Zac held increasingly progressive roles at several large multinational banking institutions including BMO Capital Markets, Barclays Capital and Macquarie Capital. Post investment banking, he worked at Tervita, an environmental waste company. During his tenure at Tervita, he executed a $2 billion reverse take-over acquisition taking the company public on the Toronto Stock Exchange. He worked directly with senior management and the board to help negotiate and execute the transaction, including raising a $250 million US bond issuance and communicating the merits of the transaction to the institutional investor community. Through his time in finance, Zac was recognized by his peers for being a team player: focused on mentoring fellow colleagues, organizing social experiences to enable bonding, and a curiosity to find solutions to the people problem’s in the business. Post finance, Zachary followed a passion for technology. He completed a full stack developer training that equipped him to architect and code his own web applications. Combining his experience in technology and business, with his focus on empowering others, Zachary joined Actionable, an organizational behaviour change technology company focused on conversations and habit building. At Actionable he built the product function as the Director of Product. He led product discovery and execution, and acted as the bridge between the user, business and engineering team. Outside of work, Zachary has focused on community building for the charitable sector. Founding Cancer Crusher, a community event series that raises funds for local cancer charities. He and his team have raised over $150,000 for cancer charities, and have been recognized in the Globe and Mail (Canadian national newspaper). He also likes to spend time supporting the local innovation community, with a focus on helping others find career fulfillment by either pivoting or growing their careers in technology. Zachary has earned degrees in both engineering and business, from the University of Western Ontario and Richard Ivey Business School, respectively, graduating with distinction. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Show Resources Simon Sinek: How great leaders inspire action Best marketing strategy ever! Steve Jobs Think different / Crazy ones speech Show Summary Zac is a leader in Calgary's innovation ecosystem. He has pivoted his career multiple times, and his goal is to help others do the same. This episode has some of the best information on how to figure out what you want to be when you grow up, and how to pivot. Plenty of great resources in the show notes as well to help people as they figure out their "why" Show Quote: "Although you need to figure out your inner "why" and what is going to motivate you and trust the process, you do quite a bit of double-takes. " "I got this flood of people wanting to connect with me... I did a full day of back-to-back, like a nine hour day of back-to-back meetings giving people advice. " "Leadership is someone who is trying to make a positive impact by empowering others." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! Magazine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan System Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - PODMaster 2020  

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.Al Del Degan I have been involved in software development for more than 25 years. I have started companies, lead companies and worked for companies - doing many different things. I am honored to be considered a leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem, and I give back as much, and often as I can. When I am not working or podcasting, you will find me pursuing my passions of photography, crypto investing, and wood working along with the occasional round of golf.Tony Enerson As a lifelong student and problem solver, I create software. I have always had good success with the technology itself, striving to build right-sized systems that fit the needs of the situation. I recognize the technology is one third of a successful venture, and I leave the other two thirds to people with passion and good business sense. In my current partnership at DuckLabs, I help software product entrepreneurs with no tech teams get started and launched. At EvolveU, I am helping to train a new generation of technical developers and leaders. I am a proponent of agile delivery methods, flat organizational structures, and trying to create situations that get the best out of people.Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.Show SummaryAl has a conversation with Tony about his background in Computer Science programming with SCADA systems and other low-level computing experiments and projects. Al asks Tony about his predictions for the next 5 years in terms of software development. They also discuss Tony's role as a Technical Lead at EvolveU and the story behind the origin of Duck Labs, of which Tony is a Co-founder.Show Quote:"I'm not an instructor... then I realize wait, but I actually know a lot about this stuff, I have been doing this for a long time.""For me the ability to really contribute to tech has always come from curiosity.""As a career technology guy who has survived the transitions, but continues to stay in technology, you need to be in a place where you will go back to I know nothing, and I will reinvent myself with this new technology. I will understand this from zero and go again. The willingness to do that 100% keeps you relevant. "Credits...This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! MagazineEpisode Music: Tony Del DeganCreator & Producer: Al Del DeganSystem Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - PODMaster 2020  

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.Al Del Degan I am a proven leader with over twenty-three years of diverse experience designing, delivering, and supporting software and technology projects. I believe in giving back to my community and I enjoy networking and helping to grow Alberta’s innovation ecosystem. Creatively you will find me pursuing my passions of podcasting, photography and wood working along with the occasional round of golf.Jen Morrison Jen is a passionate educator and life long learner with over a decade of experience as a classroom teacher and school leader. With an extensive background in experiential learning, project based learning, and design thinking, she believes that a curiosity mindset and sense of community is an essential component to transformation and deeper learning. As Simon Sinek says in The Infinite Game, “what good is it having a belly if there's no fire in it? Wake up, drink your passion, light a match and get to work.”Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.Show SummaryJen is one of those people that is clearly passionate about her career. In this episode I chat with Jen about how her path to her current job came about and what is this Project-based Learning thing is all about. Jen talks about her role at EvolveU and how they are changing the way we look at adult education. Kaizen Education Services Concussion.org Danielle LaPorte - The Desire MapShow Quote:Credits...This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! MagazineEpisode Music: Tony Del DeganCreator & Producer: Al Del DeganSystem Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - PODMaster 2020  

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.Al Del Degan I am a proven leader with over twenty-three years of diverse experience designing, delivering, and supporting software and technology projects. I believe in giving back to my community and I enjoy networking and helping to grow Alberta’s innovation ecosystem. Creatively you will find me pursuing my passions of podcasting, photography and wood working along with the occasional round of golf.Adam Berkan I grew up in Calgary, went to university in Toronto to learn software engineering, and then worked in the US at companies including Microsoft and Google. I spent almost 20 years in California and Washington as a Senior Software Engineer. In 2017 I got fed up with Silicon Valley, and moved back to Calgary. Today I work remotely for Khan Academy, a non-profit with the goal of providing "A free world class education for everybody everywhere". A huge number of my Silicon Valley co-workers have left to live somewhere cheaper. The Covid 19 pandemic has accelerated the effect. These are people who can live anywhere they want, and they want a cheap house, good schools, safe neighborhoods, and access to nature and arts. Calgary has all of those things.Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.Show SummaryA senior software engineer, Adam left his childhood home in Calgary to move to Silicon Valley. While there, he worked at Microsoft and Google and enjoyed the experience. Now working remotely for Kahn Academy, Adam is back in Calgary and has some advice for those in Calgary trying to bring the big US companies here. Don't bother, bring the devs and the companies will follow.Show Quote:"Just after the tech bubble in the early two thousands Microsoft was one of the few places that was hiring. We were all thankful to have a job.""Imagine that Google opened an office in Calgary tomorrow, and hired a thousand engineers. That would immediately make Calgary a tech spot. "Credits...This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! MagazineEpisode Music: Tony Del DeganCreator & Producer: Al Del DeganSystem Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - PODMaster 2020  

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.Al Del Degan I am a proven leader with over twenty-three years of diverse experience designing, delivering, and supporting software and technology projects. I believe in giving back to my community and I enjoy networking and helping to grow Alberta’s innovation ecosystem. Creatively you will find me pursuing my passions of podcasting, photography and wood working along with the occasional round of golf.Brad Zumwalt Brad Zumwalt has been growing technology companies for over 20 years. In 1989, he joined and led Image Club Graphics until its acquisition in 1994 by Aldus Corporation, which was later acquired by Adobe. At Adobe, he led the worldwide visual content team and grew revenues to more than $40M. In 1998, he founded EyeWire.com, an online visual content and design company, which was acquired by Getty Images in 1999. In 2001, he founded and was Chairman and President of Veer Incorporated, which was acquired in 2007 by Corbis, a privately held company of Bill Gates. Brad is an active angel investor, and a founding member of A100. He is also a founding partner of Social Venture Partners Calgary, a unique non-profit funding partnership combining a venture capital approach with local philanthropy, and a director of Alberta Enterprise Corporation and Innovate Calgary.Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.Show SummaryThis is episode 100 and Brad Zumwalt joins me to talk about Alberta's innovation ecosystem and our progress through 2020 heading into 2021 with digital transformation and the startup environment. We are approximately 1/3 towards where we should be as a province as statistically compared to our leading tech economies in other provinces of Canada, but Canada as a whole is still behind the rest of the world. Links: CED Article Butterfly Project Sheet Sophia Fairweather Startup Genome  Show Quote:"We want to make sure that we do everything we can to popularize and make the big corporations in the big economy be aware of who our Alberta firms are, and just how truly world-class their products and their talent is.""A big part of [promoting entrepreneurship] is making sure we are doing it with a gender balance"Credits...This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! MagazineEpisode Music: Tony Del DeganCreator & Producer: Al Del DeganSystem Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - PODMaster 2020  

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.Al Del Degan I am a proven leader with over twenty-three years of diverse experience designing, delivering, and supporting software and technology projects. I believe in giving back to my community and I enjoy networking and helping to grow Alberta’s innovation ecosystem. Creatively you will find me pursuing my passions of podcasting, photography and wood working along with the occasional round of golf.Adam Ludgate Adam is a technical leader who is involved in the startup/tech community and is enticed by new and innovative ways of solving problems with technology. He has worked previously with the likes of IBM Canada, AOL UK, tech startups in London's 'Silicon Roundabout' as well as with a variety of oil & gas software firms in various software development and leadership capacities.Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.Show SummaryAl connects with the LIBI Podcast Host of the Year (2020), Adam Ludgate. Adam, a born and raised Calgarian, has been involved with Computers and Technology for the majority of his life. In this episode Adam and Al talk about building your personal and business networks, as well as a thoughtful discussion on hiring junior software developers who have pivoted from other long term careers.Show Quote:Credits...This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! MagazineEpisode Music: Tony Del DeganCreator & Producer: Al Del DeganSystem Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - PODMaster 2020

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.Al Del Degan I am a proven leader with over twenty-three years of diverse experience designing, delivering, and supporting software and technology projects. I believe in giving back to my community and I enjoy networking and helping to grow Alberta’s innovation ecosystem. Creatively you will find me pursuing my passions of podcasting, photography and wood working along with the occasional round of golf.Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.Show SummaryLet's countdown the top 10 episodes from 2020.   10.) Episode #82: Mike Chui hosts Aymie Rondeau (The Curvy Shop) 9.) Episode #64: Christopher Drobot hosts Mack Male (Taproot Publishing) 8.) Episode #80: Mike Chui hosts Dr. Byron Chu (Callysto) 7.) Episode #83: Mark Shields hosts Sophia Tang (coRISE) 6.) Episode #88: Adam Ludgate hosts Jason Ribeiro (Calgary Economic Development) 5.) Episode #56: Christopher Drobot hosts Anthony Nagendraraj (Spontivly) 4.) Episode #89: Al Del Degan hosts Greg Hart (Thin Air Labs) 3.) Episode #95: Adam Ludgate hosts Kris Read and Jeff Adamson (Neo Financial) 2.) Episode #53: Adam Ludgate hosts Randy Thompson (Valhalla Private Capital) 1.) Episode #79: Adam Ludgate hosts Nicolas Beique (Helcim)   Credits...This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! MagazineEpisode Music: Tony Del DeganCreator & Producer: Al Del DeganSystem Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - PODMaster 2020  

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.Al Del Degan I am a proven leader with over twenty-three years of diverse experience designing, delivering, and supporting software and technology projects. I believe in giving back to my community and I enjoy networking and helping to grow Alberta’s innovation ecosystem. Creatively you will find me pursuing my passions of podcasting, photography and wood working along with the occasional round of golf.Michael Robinson Michael Robinson is an experienced Professor and Chen Fong Fellow in Entrepreneurial Finance with the Haskayne School of Business at the University of Calgary. Michael has a demonstrated history of research and teaching excellence and is a strong education professional with academic knowledge and practical work experience in the areas of private equity, venture capital, firm valuation, and corporate governance. He has been the Academic Director of the Calgary DEP program for the past 15 years, and was the first site lead for the CDL-Rockies program, which he continues as the Academic Director.Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.Show SummaryAl Del Degan has a chat with Michael Robinson to chat about the Haskayne School of Business, the CDL Rockies Program, a whole bunch of other entrepreneurial stuff at the University of Calgary and governance in the ecosystem. This episode is full of excellent information for everyone from entrepreneurs to investors. Links Governance Article Haskayne School of Business  Creative Destruction Lab Rockies Hunter Hub Hunter Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation Platform Calgary Sensorup (CDL Rockies success story) Show Quote:"This CDL Rockies program is drawing both companies, mentors, investors, as well as students from across our province.""To-date the CDL Rockies program has helped raise about $45 million dollars of equity capital for these early stage companies in Alberta and across the world."Credits...This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! MagazineEpisode Music: Tony Del DeganCreator & Producer: Al Del DeganSystem Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - PODMaster 2020

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.Al Del Degan I am a proven leader with over twenty-three years of diverse experience designing, delivering, and supporting software and technology projects. I believe in giving back to my community and I enjoy networking and helping to grow Alberta’s innovation ecosystem. Creatively you will find me pursuing my passions of podcasting, photography and wood working along with the occasional round of golf.Steve Armstrong From the Arctic to the European countryside, from Asia to Africa, Steven Armstrong has seen and done it all as a member of the Canadian Armed Forces and the Red Cross. Now the leader of Paratus Education, he uses the skills he learned while leading complex strategic situations around the world to help others achieve their leadership goals and create long-lasting positive results.Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.Show SummaryIn this episode Al has a conversation with Steve Armstrong talking about the different leadership styles and what leaders can do to build trust and loyalty with their teams.Show Quote:"I didn't spend enough time on the sales part... I was actively and aggressively selling, by waiting for the phone to ring.""Most people know how to lead. We all have families, we all have sports teams, we all have whatever.""Seventy to eighty percent of people, when they leave a job they are leaving a supervisor... and who's fault is that? It's not the supervisor's fault, it's whomever put them in that position."Credits...This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! MagazineEpisode Music: Tony Del DeganCreator & Producer: Al Del DeganSystem Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - PODMaster 2020

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Due to a technical glitch, unfortunately we were unable to have a show this week.  Please subscribe and tune in next week for another episode. Credits...Episode Music: Tony Del DeganCreator & Producer: Al Del DeganSystem Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - PODMaster 2020  

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.Al Del Degan I am a proven leader with over twenty-three years of diverse experience designing, delivering, and supporting software and technology projects. I believe in giving back to my community and I enjoy networking and helping to grow Alberta’s innovation ecosystem. Creatively you will find me pursuing my passions of podcasting, photography and wood working along with the occasional round of golf.Greg Hart is a lifetime entrepreneur who has been studying, applying and innovating in the area of behaviour-based design for thirty years. He has applied these approaches in over 200 different challenging design settings from manufacturing to software and even urban spaces. He is a partner in Thin Air Labs and the co-founder of InceptionU. When he wants to relax, he referees lacrosse. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.Show SummaryGreg talks about how he went from a quiet childhood to becoming a young entrepreneur rocking through to leading world-changing organizations. Greg looks at things differently through the eyes of design and critical thinking. He believes that there are better ways of doing things in nearly every aspect of life, and he is not just thinking about it, he is making it happen.Show Quote:"It's interesting when you start going into an industrial space and you start bench-testing ideas [...] when it comes time to build a full prototype you don't get to build a fifteen thousand dollar version of it [...] you actually have to build a fifteen million dollar version of it.""The whole process of creating the Rainforest was creating this very amorphous, messy situation that lives up to the metaphor of an actual rainforest.""There's a role for people who are wanting to invest in something that's different. "Credits...This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! MagazineEpisode Music: Tony Del DeganCreator & Producer: Al Del DeganSystem Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - PODMaster 2020  

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.Al Del Degan I am a proven leader with over twenty-three years of diverse experience designing, delivering, and supporting software and technology projects. I believe in giving back to my community and I enjoy networking and helping to grow Alberta’s innovation ecosystem. Creatively you will find me pursuing my passions of podcasting, photography and wood working along with the occasional round of golf.Brigitte Legault Brigitte Legault is the new Co-Manager, Community at Rainforest Alberta. Brigitte's career has spanned several industries in both the private and public sectors. Over the past few years she has been facilitating social entrepreneurship programs and coaching small business owners. She is currently filling up her toolbox through completion of her MBA and Certified Management Consultant designation. Her insatiable desire to learn and connect has led her to the innovation sector where she has been enjoying her time getting to know the community and how to best support the thriving culture behind it.Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.Show SummaryBrigitte tells us about what it was like growing up in a family of entrepreneurs and how it lead her to value professional relationships and communication. Seeing some success in her own entrepreneurial ventures and a thirst for learning has lead her to get more and more involved in Alberta's innovation ecosystem from the Calgary Innovation Coalition to now being a Co-Manager, Community with Rainforest Alberta.Show Quote:"[regarding her first business] I don't want to say, a failure [...] it was three or four years of the best learning of my life. ""Everyone has been incredibly welcoming and there are so many exciting things happening in the ecosystem, it's incredible from a newcomer's perspective.""I was really blown away by how much is out there for people if they want to pivot their career."Credits...This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! MagazineEpisode Music: Tony Del DeganCreator & Producer: Al Del DeganSystem Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - PODMaster 2020  

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.Al Del Degan I am a proven leader with over twenty-three years of diverse experience designing, delivering, and supporting software and technology projects. I believe in giving back to my community and I enjoy networking and helping to grow Alberta’s innovation ecosystem. Creatively you will find me pursuing my passions of podcasting, photography and wood working along with the occasional round of golf.David Burtyn I am responsible for user growth and adoption of the Ruckify platform in western Canada. I have led the expansion team for Calgary through covid and now are looking to get more involved with the Calgary community to show how Ruckify can Help. Ruckify is the rent anything platform - Like airbnb but for stuff. We help people make money renting out items the already own to other members of the community to help them save money as well. We have a partnership with the United Way in Calgary to help get them laptops, cell phones and tablets to health professionals and their patients to help stay connected.Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.Show SummaryDavid found out at the young age of sixteen that he had the gift of gab, and getting paid to just chat with people was a great way to make a living. Later the psychology of sales kept his interest and has taken him through a great career so far in sales and business development. Learn how David was relentless in making sure that he got hired on at a company called Ruckify.  A company that he felt was a great fit for his skills, and as far as he was concerned, he was going to make sure it was very successful. Also get to learn where the creative name for the company came from.Show Quote:"For the first time in a while I had defined that is what I want, I could see the potential, I could see what I could do with it""There is no such thing as a bad conversation about Ruckify, the more people we can educate, the more people we can help""A chicken plucker is on the platform... I have seen an inflatable unicorn suit... it's literally everything [on the Ruckify platform]"Credits...This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! MagazineEpisode Music: Tony Del DeganCreator & Producer: Al Del DeganSystem Engineering Sponsor: Kris Chase - PODMaster 2020  

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.  The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. I am hosting this episode myself.  I am a proven leader with over twenty-three years of diverse experience designing, delivering, and supporting software and technology projects. I believe in giving back to my community and I enjoy networking and helping to grow Alberta’s innovation ecosystem.  Creatively you will find me pursuing my passions of podcasting, photography and wood working along with the occasional round of golf. Jade Alberts is the Founder of Peer Guidance and a Business Strategist / Entrepreneur / Connector / Investor that Tells It Like It Is. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Sometimes you have to let go to grow, so contact him to set up an Honest Meeting. Jade enjoys building trusting relationships with "Handshake Honesty." He has a genuine passion for both people and businesses. Honesty, Authenticity, Networking, Connecting, and Sharing are the pillars of his belief system. Join Jade on his Facebook Live “Telling It Like it Is” Interview every Wednesday 9:30am MST. It's a 15-minute discussion that shares Small Business Owners' stories. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.  We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts.  We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Episode Summary:Krista is a talented drummer and music teacher, but she is also a magazine publisher.  The story of how Community Now Magazine came to be is interesting enough, but what the magazine strives to do in the community is outstanding.  Quotes: "We're not talking to each other, we stay in our industry. Not-for-profits talk to not-for-profits, but they need business, education and innovation. Same for business, we need the not-for-profits and the community and education to make everything work." "The Rainforest is one of the best community places you can go for business because it really truly represents helping each other, without expecting anything back. And it allows you to use your skills to help other people move forward." "We all need to share everything to help each other grow... to support each other, and help inspire others to do really cool things." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! Magazine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan 

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.  The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. I am hosting this episode myself.  For more than 20 years I have provided leadership and guidance in technology and software development. When I am not networking, making connections and trying to help out wherever I can, I follow my creative passions of graphic design and photography. Krista Malden is the publisher of Community Now! Magazine.  She is Exploring and connecting the community one story at a time. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.  We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts.  We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Episode Summary:Krista is a talented drummer and music teacher, but she is also a magazine publisher.  The story of how Community Now Magazine came to be is interesting enough, but what the magazine strives to do in the community is outstanding.  Quotes: "We're not talking to each other, we stay in our industry. Not-for-profits talk to not-for-profits, but they need business, education and innovation. Same for business, we need the not-for-profits and the community and education to make everything work." "The Rainforest is one of the best community places you can go for business because it really truly represents helping each other, without expecting anything back. And it allows you to use your skills to help other people move forward." "We all need to share everything to help each other grow... to support each other, and help inspire others to do really cool things." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Community Now! Magazine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan 

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.  The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. I am hosting this episode myself.  For more than 20 years I have provided leadership and guidance in technology and software development. When I am not networking, making connections and trying to help out wherever I can, I follow my creative passions of graphic design and photography. Matt Templeton has a Masters of Science where he specialized in Artificial Intelligence and Computing. He became a partner at Associated Research, where he spent almost 15 years perfecting his product development skills. He holds multiple patents on a range of products both in Canada and internationally. His first start-up was a Health and Safety company which he grew to nearly 30 employees and over 3 million in annual revenues.  As discussed in this episode: A great book on leadership and creativity is "Creativity Inc." by Ed Catmull Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.  We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts.  We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Episode Summary:Matt and I dig into the concept of "the generalist" and how being curious and having an insatiable desire to learn, as well as genuinely being interested in people can be a super power for entrepreneurs. Leadership and people skills are so much more important than technical skills when you are trying to run a company. Quotes: "If anyone's ever had sort of an office mom, you know you love them... they are critical" "Enjoy your passion, and learn lots and lots of different things, but a little bit of strategy and a little bit of forethought goes a long way" "When I was young, I overvalued the technical skills though. I wish I had started earlier on... leadership stuff, working with people, learning how to work well with people" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Capturing Legacies Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan 

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.  The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. I am hosting this episode myself.  For more than 20 years I have provided leadership and guidance in technology and software development. When I am not networking, making connections and trying to help out wherever I can, I follow my creative passions of graphic design and photography. Robin Daultani is a Dreamer. Doer. Passionate about technology and its impact on people. Lifelong learner. Not afraid to challenge the status quo. Doesn't like the word ordinary unless served with extra. Passionate about wildlife & travel. Nicerr is a unique meeting+giving platform that enables people to meet experienced professionals, business leaders, entrepreneurs and subject matter experts by giving to charities of the experts' choice. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.  We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts.  We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Episode Summary:Al and Robin have a chat about mentorship, being an entrepreneur, and how the difficulties you go through in your past help to shape the person that you become. Quotes: "The things that are important in a corporate culture, are not important in a family business." "People want to help people, but they are drowning in information." Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Workhaus Core Episode Audio Editing: Kate Day - KD Sound Design Graphic Design: Mackenzie Bedford Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan 

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.  The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. I am hosting this episode myself.  For more than 20 years I have provided leadership and guidance in technology and software development. When I am not networking, making connections and trying to help out wherever I can, I follow my creative passions of graphic design and photography. Kevin MacDonald started his first company at 19 years old. Since that time, He has had a very successful career as an entrepreneur in high tech. Today, he balances mentorship and business advising for entrepreneurs looking to raise capital for growth and acquisition. Kevin has been instrumental in many mergers and acquisitions in technology. Throughout his career, and ongoing today, Kevin is a subject matter expert for sales, marketing, communications, and operations for large corporate companies as well as tech startups. Visit Trail Riders of the Canadian Rockies for a unique and unforgettable adventure of a lifetime. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.  We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts.  We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Episode Summary:Kevin takes us through his fascinating career path from being a 19-year-old entrepreneur in university through various roles in communications and marketing for industry leading technology companies, before finally retiring at a young age to become a mentor and investor in the startup and small business community. Kevin has a lot of great advice for new business owners and can tell you what a properly cooked dove tastes like in Texas. Quotes: "Don’t drink the Kool Aid" "You have to get over your own ego" "Never be afraid to fail" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Workhaus Core Graphic Design: Mackenzie Bedford Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan 

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.  The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. I am hosting this episode myself.  For more than 20 years I have provided leadership and guidance in technology and software development. When I am not networking, making connections and trying to help out wherever I can, I follow my creative passions of graphic design and photography.  Jim Gibson is an Entrepreneur, Innovation Strategist, and author.  Jim is passionate, experienced, and an infinitely curious entrepreneur, Jim shares his cautionary tale of innovation and disruption in a human world in his book: Tip of the Spear, the product of his life’s work - spanning over 30 years at the forefront of technology and change. Jim has an MBA from the Schulich School of Business in Toronto, a B.Comm from the University of Toronto, and holds his Certified Management Consulting Designation. Jim lives in Calgary, Canada with his family, and travels the world sharing his experience, business acumen, and startup wisdom. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.  We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts.  We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Episode Summary:This episode is loaded with content from a summary of Jim Gibson’s life history through to the origin story of Rainforest Alberta through to why Jim Wrote his first book “Tip of the Spear” and a look at the future of technology and digital disruption. Quotes: "I will never forget, being in Shanghai doing simultaneous translation of Mandarin and English announcing our new product and I just had this out-of-body experience thinking... what the heck am I doing here?" "What we have to be much better at, and exponential at, is the innovation of ways" Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Workhaus Core Graphic Design: Mackenzie Bedford Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan 

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.  The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. I am hosting this episode myself.  For more than 20 years I have provided leadership and guidance in technology and software development. When I am not networking, making connections and trying to help out wherever I can, I follow my creative passions of graphic design and photography. Brydon Gierl has been working in the liquid cooling field for 20 years. Prior to Co-founding CoolIT Systems Inc. he worked in various capacities in construction and fabrication industries learning valuable lessons as a first time business owner operator. Currently in his position as SVP of Product Development at CoolIT Systems he is back to where his creative talents are best exploited and a work ethic born on the family farm serves the company well. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.  We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts.  We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Episode Summary:Brydon talks about how CoolIT came into existence and the difficulties and lessons learned along the journey from a couple guys trying to solve a problem to an international technology company working with some of the tech giants of data centres. Quotes:“Most of the people we have here are far smarter than I’ll ever be.” “[After being in business for a long time] you can get stuck, you can get complacent, you can think we used to do it this way, and that is a dangerous place to be. You gotta open your eyes and listen to people around you.” “Never be afraid to be the dumber one in the room.” Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Capturing Legacies Inc. Graphic Design: Mackenzie Bedford Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan 

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.  The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. I am hosting this episode myself.  For more than 20 years I have provided leadership and guidance in technology and software development. When I am not networking, making connections and trying to help out wherever I can, I follow my creative passions of graphic design and photography. Anette Ceraficki is the Director, Talent Acquisition and Attraction at Benevity in Calgary. Anette is an experienced Talent Leader with a passion for building strong teams, creating an exceptional candidate experience, employee inclusion, culture, and community building. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.  We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts.  We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Capturing Legacies Inc. Graphic Design: Mackenzie Bedford Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan 

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.  The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. This episode is hosted by Allan Marston.  Allan is a Father, Husband and innovator. Mr. Marston is a successful corporate executive heading up departments in Business Development, Sales, Marketing and Human Resources. As a serial entrepreneur Allan has over 18 years’ experience in the technology startup space and was the CEO of his own Silicon Valley company.  Previously Allan spent 25 years in the retail business and was with a company when it created Canada's first loyalty reward card program.  He has had several start-ups and successful exits and is currently the founder of Zenoshi.io where he is building a universal rewards program on the blockchain. Al Del Degan is educated in Computer Science and has spent most of his career as a software developer, business analyst and project manager.  He is a passionate entrepreneur and enjoys working with creative technologies and in business development.  Some links to things Al is involved in: TECHCareers: http://TECHCareers.ca Capturing Legacies: https://CapturingLegacies.com Aduro Photography: https://Aduro.ca Al's Son Tony's book project: https://tony.deldegan.ca/the-plight-of-steel Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.  We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts.  We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Workhaus Core Graphic Design: Mackenzie Bedford Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan 

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.  The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. I am hosting this episode myself and for some background on me, I am educated in Computer Science and have spent most of my career as a software developer, business analyst and project manager.  I am a passionate entrepreneur and enjoy working with creative technologies and in business development. If you have listened to past episodes of this podcast, chances are you heard Allan Marston host a few.  On this episode I have the pleasure of having a conversation with Allan about his personal history and how he got to where he is today.  Allan shares his idea for an "investment club" (35:45) to help new startups get a leg up through a unique crowd funding and mentoring opportunity. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.  We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts.  We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Workhaus Core Graphic Design: Mackenzie Bedford Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan 

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.  The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. I am hosting this episode myself and for some background on me, I am educated in Computer Science and have spent most of my career as a software developer, business analyst and project manager.  I am a passionate entrepreneur and enjoy working with creative technologies and in business development. In this episode I chat with a friend of the Rainforest, Nicholas Luff based out of London in the UK.  Nicholas is an entrepreneur, thought leader and investor supporting innovation and community throughout his international business travels. During one of his recent trips to Calgary I had a chance to sit down with Nicholas and discuss how the innovation ecosystem in Alberta, and in Calgary specifically, could rival that of larger Canadian cities if we break down the silos and build better long-term relationships between startup founders and investors. Nicholas Luff is an accomplished advisor, strategist and investor with over 25 years experience in the corporate, non-profit and public sectors. Currently based in London (UK) but a very frequent traveller, he is often found leading innovative and collaborative approaches to accelerating the economic development of startup ecosystems, especially in regions that aspire to truly compete on national and global stages. His work experience has spanned five continents and have included organizations such as IBM, Lockheed Martin, Ballard Power Systems, the United Nations, Microsoft, as well as governments including Canada, UK, Laos and the Philippines. Nicholas completed post-graduate studies in Business at the University of Cambridge (UK), holds numerous management and professional certifications, and has served on a variety of boards. He was also amongst Calgary's Top 40 Under 40 recipients in 2009. A life-long social entrepreneur, Nicholas brings his passions to startups and early-round enterprises as an angel investor, mentor and/or advisor. Using his skills in accelerating partnerships, executing innovative strategies for scaling-up or developing innovative funding models, he feels equally confident in both the front line trenches as well as the c-suite of organizations committed to meeting bold and ambitious targets. Should you wish to contact Nicholas, you can do so through Twitter (@nicholasluff https://twitter.com/nicholasluff) and on LinkedInat https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-luff-16023610/ Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.  We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts.  We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Capturing Legacies Inc. Graphic Design: Mackenzie Bedford Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan 

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.  The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. In this episode, Al Del Degan is hosting and his guest is Brad Zumwalt.  Al is an experienced professional with a twenty-two year career in computer science and a passion for creative design and photography. Al has had a diverse career path and has worked in many industries and always gives back to the community.  Brad Zumwalt has been growing technology companies for over 20 years. In 1989, he joined and led Image Club Graphics until its acquisition in 1994 by Aldus Corporation, which was later acquired by Adobe.  At Adobe, he led the worldwide visual content team and grew revenues to more than $40M.  In 1998, he founded EyeWire.com, an online visual content and design company, which was acquired by Getty Images in 1999. In 2001, he founded and was Chairman and President of Veer Incorporated, which was acquired in 2007 by Corbis, a privately held company of Bill Gates.  Brad is a founding partner of Social Venture Partners Calgary, a unique non-profit funding partnership combining a venture capital approach with local philanthropy, and a founding member of the A100. Brad is an active angel investor, and a founding member of A100. He is also a founding partner of Social Venture Partners Calgary, a unique non-profit funding partnership combining a venture capital approach with local philanthropy, and a director of Alberta Enterprise Corporation and Innovate Calgary. In this podcast, Brad and Al discuss leadership, innovation and the birth of Rainforest Alberta along with what Calgary can be if we all work together instead of apart in silos.   Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.  We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts.  We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Zinc Ventures Graphic Design: Mackenzie Bedford Episode Music: King Aurorus Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan 

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta.  The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. In this episode, Al Del Degan is hosting and his guest is Co-Founder & CEO of Summit Nanotech, Amanda Hall.  Al is an experienced professional with a twenty-two year career in computer science and a passion for creative design and photography. Al has had a diverse career path and has worked in many industries and always gives back to the community.  Amanda Hall is a professional geophysicist with 11 years of experience in the oil and gas industry, 4 years in the mining industry and 4 years as a laboratory scientist. Amanda is passionate about growing a human centric company, employing innovative, resourceful people who feel responsible for rapidly creating the change that is needed in our industrial landscape using wisdom, technology and adaptive solutions. In this podcast, Amanda and Al have a conversation about Nanotechnology, how Amanda got started in her company Summit Nanotech and how amazing life can be if you check your ego at the door and take criticism for what it is. Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out.  We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts.  We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show. Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: Zinc Ventures Graphic Design: Mackenzie Bedford Episode Music: King Aurorus Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan 

On this inaugural episode of the Shizdiggity podcast you are introduced to the hosts, Al Del Degan and Rea Hailley. We discuss the concept that happiness is a choice and that you can train yourself to be aware of your thoughts and to avoid letting other people and situations affect your mood. Choose Happiness! For more information on this podcast, please visit https://Shizdiggity.com

On this inaugural episode of the Shizdiggity podcast you are introduced to the hosts, Al Del Degan and Rea Hailley. We discuss the concept that happiness is a choice and that you can train yourself to be aware of your thoughts and to avoid letting other people and situations affect your mood. Choose Happiness! For more information on this podcast, please visit https://Shizdiggity.com

Take a dive into the art of Calgary photographer Al Del Degan as we explore his portfolio and learn his simple technique for perfect silhouettes.

Take a dive into the art of Calgary photographer Al Del Degan as we explore his portfolio and learn his simple technique for perfect silhouettes.

On this episode of the A Story Not Forgotten podcast, host Al Del Degan interviews Les Wiseman. Les teaches communications and all forms of writing at Royal Roads University in Victoria. He was the associate editor for Vancouver Magazine and wrote a Rock 'n' Roll column called In One Ear showcasing the emerging punk scene. Les was known as the guy on the west coast for writing profiles and TV Guide contacted him to write a column called On the Town with Les Wiseman interviewing stars who came to Vancouver. That was just the start of Les' provocative career. Les tells us a story about how he went from being a construction worker to becoming the associate editor of a prestigious magazine while hanging out with legends like Frank Zappa, Iggy Pop, Tom Jones, Bob Hope, Wes Craven, Joey Ramone and Kurt Vonnegut. Les can be found on his blog, Facebook or Twitter If you have a story to tell, and we know you do, reach out and we will get you on the show. In the meantime, be sure to capture your full life story for future generations to enjoy. Capturing Legacies offers an array of story recording and writing services to capture and produce the life story of any person, company, place or thing. Check out our online story writing application to help you record your own legacy!

On this inaugural episode of the A Story Not Forgotten podcast, host Liam Rathgeber interviews Al Del Degan, Founder & Anthologist of Capturing Legacies Incorporated. Al is a Photographer, Writer, Software Developer and Entrepreneur. Al shares with us the reason behind Capturing Legacies Inc. and tells us a story from when he used to work in his father's construction business. Al can be reached at either http://CapturingLegacies.com or on his photography website http://aduro.ca If you have a story to tell, and we know you do, reach out and we will get you on the show. In the meantime, be sure to capture your full life story for future generations to enjoy. Capturing Legacies offers an array of story recording and writing services to capture and produce the life story of any person, company, place or thing. Check out our online story writing application to help you record your own legacy!

On this episode of the A Story Not Forgotten podcast, guest host Al Del Degan interviews Liam Rathgeber, Anthologist at Capturing Legacies Incorporated. Liam is a Photographer, Writer, Senior Copy Editor and Motorcycle Guru. Liam tells us a story from when he had a very interesting confrontation with a police officer on his way to a medieval sword fighting competition. Liam can be reached at either http://CapturingLegacies.com or on his photography website http://trathoriginals.com The medieval sword club that Liam spoke of is: http://www.dragons-own.ca If you have a story to tell, and we know you do, reach out and we will get you on the show. In the meantime, be sure to capture your full life story for future generations to enjoy. Capturing Legacies offers an array of story recording and writing services to capture and produce the life story of any person, company, place or thing. Check out our online story writing application to help you record your own legacy!