Bragg N' Bout Business Podcast podcast artwork

PODCAST · business

Bragg N' Bout Business Podcast

Welcome to Bragg N’ Bout Business, the podcast that shines a spotlight on incredible entrepreneurs and business owners in and around Bragg Creek, Alberta. Each week we pull back the curtain on local storefronts, fantastic restaurants, skilled tradespeople, and dedicated service providers—giving them the chance to share their inspiring stories of resilience and success. You'll connect with the faces behind the businesses you love, discover some hidden gems, and be reminded how your support makes a remarkable difference in our communities.

  1. 41

    Kevin Den Hoed on Why "Helping People" is the Ultimate Business Model

    "You’re going to help way more people as a mechanic than you will as a cop." 🚑🚔That’s the advice that changed everything for Kevin Den Hoed. In this episode, Kevin joins Gregg Hinton to discuss his 30-year journey from a "joking dream" at an A&W to running a thriving family-run shop in Bragg Creek.Kevin breaks down the transition from teaching at SAIT to full-time entrepreneurship, his unique approach to staff mentorship, and why he’s choosing to be "whole-assed" in his commitment to the local community.Topics Covered:Moving from an employee mindset to an owner mindset.The importance of "PR" (Public Relations) over just "visiting" with customers.Why the internet makes us informed but not always smarter diagnosticians.The power of a multi-generational legacy in a small town.Follow the show for more interviews with the practitioners moving the needle in Alberta.⏳ Episode Timestamps00:00 – Intro: Kevin Den Hoed & the CAT Automotive Origin Story02:30 – From A&W Jokes to a 30-Year Reality: Naming the Business07:45 – The COVID Pivot: How a Crisis Became a Blessing for KAT12:15 – Why Bragg Creek? Being the Local Mechanic & Giving Back16:30 – The "Circle of Life" Business Model: Win-Win Pricing21:00 – PR vs. Visiting: The Art of Customer Connection26:45 – Supporting the Core: Why Local Entrepreneurs Get a Discount31:30 – Leading Gen Z: Mentoring the Next Generation of Technicians36:45 – Work-Life Integration: Why "Work" is Therapeutic41:00 – Multi-Generational Legacy: The 50-Year History of the Property46:30 – The Recruitment Story: Why Kevin Chose Wrenching Over Policing51:15 – RAPID FIRE: How Often Do You Actually Need an Oil Change?56:45 – Check Engine Lights: When to Worry and When to Stop01:01:00 – The Truth About Brakes: Why They Squeak in 202601:05:30 – The Bigfoot Question & Kevin’s Philosophy on Life01:08:45 – Closing Thoughts: How to Support Local in Bragg Creek#BraggCreek #SupportLocal #KATAutomotive #Practitioner #SmallBizAlberta #CommunityMoat #BusinessLeadership #PodcastCommunity

  2. 40

    Grizzly Bears, Big Business, and the 2027 Election: The Sarah Elmeligi Masterclass

    Stop playing small. Sarah Elmeligi isn’t just the MLA for Banff-Kananaskis; she’s a PhD biologist who spent 20 years looking into the eyes of 600lb grizzlies before she ever looked at a ballot box. In this episode of Bragg N' Bout Business, we’re going deep on the "Human Dimension" of leadership. We talk about the "dirt" that makes our region the best in the province and why "balance" is a lie when it comes to the environment vs. development. Sarah gets real about the struggle of walking away from her own small business, Sarah E Consulting, to serve the public, and why she’s officially intending to seek the nomination for the 2027 run. If you’re an entrepreneur in Alberta trying to survive the "masses descending" on your community, this is the resilience training you didn't know you needed.#BraggCreek #AlbertaBusiness #SarahElmeligi #GrizzlyBears #SmallBusinessSuccess #BanffKananaskis #2027Election #EntrepreneurMindset #AlbertaPolitics #Resilience #WhatBearsTeachUsTime Stamps:0:00 – Intro: Why Banff-Kananaskis has the "Best Dirt" in Alberta. 03:45 – The Trigger: From Grizzly Bear Scientist to MLA. 06:20 – Small Business Hustle: The Freedom of Running Sarah E Consulting. 10:15 – The "Balance" Myth: Why a Healthy Environment is the Economy. 14:40 – The Australia Winter: Escaping Hibernation and Living the PhD Life. 19:12 – Lessons from "The Boss": What 60-Grizzlies Can Teach You About People. 24:30 – What Bears Teach Us: Patience, Resilience, and Knowing When to Walk Away. 29:50 – Personal Lightning Round: Vet Clinics, Australia Backpacking, and Bigfoot. 34:10 – The 2027 Run: New Riding Boundaries and the Future of Banff-Kananaskis. 37:20 – The Bragg Creek Egress: Real Talk on Safety and Local Advocacy

  3. 39

    Untamed Luxury: Navigating the 2026 Bragg Creek Real Estate Market with Elise Lalonde

    What does "luxury" actually mean in 2026?. In this episode of Bragg N' Bout Business, we sit down with Elise Lalonde of the Rare Group (Real Broker) to talk about the shift toward "untamed luxury" in the Alberta foothills.Elise shares her unique journey from farm life and international flight attending to high-end couture design and, eventually, real estate. We dig into why Bragg Creek is a market like no other, the "Bragg Creek Unique" quirks you need to know before buying an acreage, and how to maximize your home's value without a massive renovation.Key Takeaways:Defining Untamed Luxury: Why space and peace are the new status symbols in 2026.The "Bragg Creek Unique" Factor: Navigating weird property lines, septic systems, and the "cone lickers" of the hamlet.High-ROI Seller Tips: Why cleaning and maintenance beat out "crappy renos" every time.2026 Market Shifts: Insights on interest rates, amortization rules, and the return of "clean offers".Real Estate as Relationships: Managing the emotional side of difficult deals and estate sales.Timestamps:0:00 – Welcome Elise Lalonde to Bragg N' Bout Business 2:45 – What is "Untamed Luxury" in 2026? 8:15 – From Flight Attendant to Couture Designer to Realtor 14:30 – Common misconceptions about moving to Bragg Creek 21:10 – How to increase your home's value immediately 28:50 – Bigfoot, Tinder success stories, and local life #BraggCreek #AlbertaRealEstate #UntamedLuxury #BraggNBoutBusiness #EliseLalonde #RareGroup #RealEstate2026

  4. 38

    Why Niche Retail Wins: BBQ, Bigfoot, and Building a Destination Business

    Stop trying to be Home Depot. In this episode, I sit down with Leslie from Whisky and Woodsmoke Mercantile to talk about how she turned a "wild welcome" in Bragg Creek into a world-class destination for BBQ fanatics and outdoor enthusiasts.We’re diving deep into the 2nd Annual Hot Wings Challenge (yes, the legit Hot Ones sauces) and why Leslie chooses to stock the "notorious" stuff you can't find at Safeway. If you want to know how to pivot from a gift shop to an outfitting powerhouse while supporting the Veteran Association Food Bank, this is the blueprint.In this episode, we cover:Marketing Strategy: Why humor and "inappropriate" products build a loyal fanbase.Spice Science: Why your grocery store pepper makes you sneeze (and why Township 27 doesn't).Funding Realities: The truth about banks and the "thick skin" required to self-fund a dream.Bigfoot in Alberta? First-hand accounts of sightings near Bragg Creek.Support the Cause:Whisky and Woodsmoke collects for the Veteran Association Food Bank year-round—they’ve already raised nearly $2,000!Timestamps (The "Retention" Blueprint)0:00 – The Hot Wings Challenge: Testing the "Battery Acid" sauce.2:32 – The "Wild Welcome": Why Leslie signed a lease before she knew what to sell.5:15 – Gauging the Audience: The motorcycle show trick for retail success.7:45 – Pivoting: Listening to the community to become a BBQ mecca.10:12 – The Science of Spices: Microplastics and low pH garlic.13:40 – Local Legends: Why Township 27 and Craddyshack are must-haves.16:20 – The "Wiener Warmer" and why your business needs to be funny.19:05 – Hard Truths: Why banks won't help you and how to survive anyway.22:15 – Bigfoot Sightings: Is the beast crossing White Abbey?.25:40 – Leslie’s "Worst Job": Lessons from a chicken slaughterhouse.29:10 – The Future: Archery, Paddleboards, and Outdoor Outfitting.#BraggCreek #AlbertaBusiness #SmallBusinessTips #BBQLife #HotOnesChallenge #EntrepreneurMindset #WhiskyAndWoodsmoke #LocalAlberta #NicheRetail

  5. 37

    The Conversation Everyone Is Avoiding (But Shouldn’t) | Julie Handrahan

    Stop scrolling and listen. We’re talking about the one thing 100% of us are going to face, but nobody wants to discuss. Julie Handrahan is a Death Doula and the founder of Transition Well, and she’s here to change the narrative.In this episode of Bragg N' Bout Business, we’re stripping away the fear and the "taboo" of end-of-life support. Julie brings a lighthearted, incredibly human perspective to a topic that usually feels heavy. If you care about legacy, empathy, and actually supporting your loved ones (and yourself), this is the most important hour of your week.What we’re diving into:What the heck is a Death Doula anyway?How to make "the end" a lot less scary for everyone involved.The business of empathy and human connection.Why a lighthearted approach is the best way to handle the heavy stuff.(0:00) Intro: Stop running, start living. This isn't a dark conversation; it’s the ultimate life hack for intention.(2:15) The Stigma vs. The Reality: What the heck is a "Death Doula" anyway? Breaking down the fear.(4:30) "Magic’s" Story: The human side of being an end-of-life worker.(8:12) It’s About Legacy, Not Just Loss: How planning for the end changes how you show up today.(11:05) "Transition Well": The mission to normalize the hardest conversation you’ll ever have.(14:55) Practical Empathy: How to actually support a loved one through the final chapter.(18:30) The Business of Humanity: Navigating entrepreneurship in a "taboo" industry.(22:45) Lightning Round / "Outro": Final thoughts on life, death, and not taking yourself too seriously.Follow Julie Handrahan & Transition Well:[email protected]

  6. 36

    How This Mom Sold Out Her Business in 24 Hours: The Power of Ritual with Lucy McMurray ☕✨

    What happens when a holistic nutritionist decides to fix her son's bedtime routine? She accidentally builds a thriving business. In this episode of Bragg N' Bout Business, host Gregg Hinton sits down with Lucy McMurray, founder of Ritual Wellness Collective, to discuss how she turned a personal need into a best-selling line of adaptogenic lattes.From navigating the "administrative nightmare" of a startup to securing "bucket list" retail partners, Lucy shares the raw, grassroots journey of building a brand in Bragg Creek. We dive deep into the science of adaptogens like Reishi and Ashwagandha, the challenge of sourcing high-quality Matcha, and why "intimate" local markets can outperform high-traffic events.Guest Info:Guest: Lucy McMurrayBusiness: Ritual Wellness CollectiveInstagram: @ritualwellness.coTimestamps:00:00 – Intro: From the Bragg Creek Christmas Market to Podcast Guest01:41 – Why Market Volume Doesn't Equal Sales Volume02:35 – What are Adaptogens? Bringing the Nervous System into Regulation03:32 – Product Breakdown: Mellow Mood Cacao vs. Golden Moon Milk05:07 – The "Aha!" Moment: Making Hot Chocolate for a 4-Year-Old07:23 – Glow Up Matcha: Skincare in a Mug & Sourcing Challenges08:44 – Relocating to Bragg Creek: Chasing Alignment Over City Life13:24 – The Launch: Selling Out 100 Bags in 24 Hours15:37 – Winning the "Bucket List" Client: The Light Cellar Partnership16:34 – The Hardest Part: Compliance, Packaging, and Administration18:13 – Sourcing Integrity: Organic Mushrooms from New Earth Organics21:35 – Setting Ritual Apart: Small Batches vs. Mass Production23:54 – Growth Through Community: The Power of Word-of-Mouth27:13 – Looking Ahead: Expanding Cafes and Streamlining Manufacturing34:49 – Entrepreneurial Lessons: Handling Rejection and Maintaining Ego38:04 – Lucy’s Top Tip: Identify Your Non-Negotiables#Entrepreneurship #WellnessBusiness #Adaptogens #BraggCreek #SmallBusinessGrowth #HolisticNutrition #RitualWellness #PodcastInterviews #LocalBusinessAlberta

  7. 35

    Burnout, PTSD and Real Healing | Psychologist Kelly Bischke

    Is the traditional therapy model broken? In this episode of Bragg N' Bout Business, we sit down with Kelly Bischke, founder of Rivan Psychology, who is flipping the script on mental health by taking clients out of the office and into the wild.Kelly shares her powerful transition from a career in law enforcement and the "golden handcuffs" of a government pension to launching her own practice in Bragg Creek. We go deep on the reality of First Responder burnout, the specific signs of PTSD that are often ignored, and why "Walk and Talk" therapy is the nervous system reset we all need in a hyper-digital world.We also tackle the elephant in the room: AI in Psychology. Will ChatGPT replace your therapist? Kelly breaks down why human connection, body language, and energy are the uncopyable assets of the future.The Pivot: Why leaving a secure job for happiness is the ultimate ROI.The Niche: Specialized trauma support for First Responders and Peace Officers.The Method: How nature and movement regulate the nervous system better than a couch.The Truth: Why asking for help is the most courageous metric of strength.00:00 - Intro: Disrupting the Traditional Therapy Model02:15 - Kelly’s Journey: From Peace Officer to Psychologist08:45 - The "Golden Handcuffs": Leaving a Government Pension for Freedom13:20 - Identifying Burnout & PTSD in First Responders19:10 - Walk and Talk Therapy: How Nature Regulates the Nervous System26:30 - Why the "Stiff Couch" Approach is Outdated31:45 - AI in Mental Health: Can Computers Replace Human Empathy?38:50 - Advice for Anyone Stuck in a Toxic Work Environment42:00 - Connect with Rivan Psychology in Bragg Creek

  8. 34

    Dani Moon: Triplets, Divorce Songs and Starting Over at 48

    Singer-songwriter and author Dani Moon grew up in Bragg Creek, Alberta — raised by a stepfather who toured with Ian Tyson. She lived in Paris, survived the Congo, had triplets, lost her mother in 2013, the same year she experienced the Bragg Creek flood, and put music on hold for over a decade.Now at 48, she's back. Three new divorce songs are dropping, she's performing weekly at Rockies Tavern and Grill in Bragg Creek, and she's self-published two books including "The Water Dish Dogs."In this episode of Bragg N' Bout Business, Dani shares her songwriting process, why she calls herself a "white witch," her advice for young artists, what it's really like inside Calgary's struggling live music scene, and why she believes in Bigfoot.🎵 Find Dani Moon:Instagram: @DaniMoonArtIsItTikTok & YouTube: @MoonMoodsMusic: Spotify, Amazon, all major platforms📚 Books: "The Water Dish Dogs" & "Baby Boom" — available on Amazon00:00 — Welcome & Meeting Dani Moon02:15 — Growing Up in Tucson and Moving to Bragg Creek04:30 — Stepfather Tom Moon & the Ian Tyson Connection06:00 — Living in a Cabin With No Running Water08:00 — From Theater to Music at Mount Royal University10:30 — Shakespeare in the Park & Finding Her Voice13:00 — First Album: McLean and Moon (2001)15:30 — Meeting Her Husband in Paris17:00 — Living in the Congo & Restoring a Cathedral20:00 — Triplets, Loss & the 2013 Alberta Floods23:00 — Solo Album "Big Schemes, Little Dreams" & the $10K Fundraiser25:30 — New Orleans Producer & the Music Industry28:00 — How Dani Writes a Song in 5 Minutes31:00 — Self-Publishing "The Water Dish Dogs" & "Baby Boom"33:30 — Advice for Young Artists: Don't Get Sidetracked36:00 — Handling Criticism & Writing Without an Instrument38:30 — Social Media, AI & the Shift to "Interest Media"40:30 — The Introvert Behind the Stage Persona43:00 — Selling Shoes at Holt Renfrew & Cuba Gooding Jr.45:30 — Stage Fright, Divorce & Not Caring Anymore48:00 — Bigfoot, White Witches & Interdimensional Beings51:00 — What's Next: New Songs, Books & Thursday Nights at Rocky's53:00 — Where to Find Dani Moon

  9. 33

    AI Agents Are Replacing Grunt Work — Ian Tell on How Bison and Bird Delivers 5X Productivity

    Ian Tell, Chief Revenue Officer at Bison and Bird, reveals how agentic AI is slashing 8-hour business tasks down to 15 minutes and delivering 5X productivity gains for small and mid-size companies across Canada.This is NOT another ChatGPT conversation. Ian breaks down Bison and Bird's proprietary Calculate, Capture, Craft methodology and STAR framework that maps customized AI agents directly into your business processes — from blueprint reading to invoice reconciliation to proposal generation.If you run a business and your team is drowning in spreadsheets, manual estimates, and repetitive admin work, this episode is your wake-up call. Ian shares real client results, the proof-of-concept money-back guarantee that removes all risk, and why their tagline — "AI agents do the grunt work so your people can do the great work" — is backed by hard numbers.Topics covered: agentic AI vs chatbots, AI ROI calculation, process automation for construction and manufacturing, the STAR methodology (Source, Technology, Action, Record), human-in-the-loop AI, data security, CRO vs VP of Sales, and why Bison and Bird's symbiotic partnership model is changing how businesses adopt AI.Connect with Bison and Bird: teambisonandbird.comHosted by Gregg Hinton — Bragg N' Bout Business Podcast — Bragg Creek, Alberta, Canada.

  10. 32

    From Rock Star to Financial Advisor: Greg Wood's Unconventional Journey

    Greg Wood's career path is anything but conventional. From touring as a guitarist in metal core band Dead Reckoning, to commissioning oil and gas facilities, to becoming a partner at Raymond James, Greg's journey is a masterclass in reinvention and persistence.In this episode, Greg shares how the 2015 oil crash led him to Google "how to start a hedge fund," which sparked a decade-long transformation into financial services. He opens up about the challenges of building a practice from scratch, the mentors who shaped his path, and why he moved his practice from downtown Calgary to Cochrane.Episode Highlights:Growing up in Bonnyville and discovering music through guitarTeaching guitar lessons at 16 and pursuing music educationTouring Western Canada with cover bands and original projectsTransitioning to oil & gas as a power engineer and entrepreneurHelping oil workers with investments during lunch breaksTaking the Canadian Securities Course and discovering his passionThe mentor who told him "you don't want to be in this business"Seven years building his practice and becoming full partner"Burn the boats" philosophy - why dabbling kills successWhat credentials to look for in a financial advisor (CIM, CFA, CFP)Living at Ghost Lake and training martial arts with Coach Kieran KeddleDream big, work hard - but multiply your goals by 10The importance of mentorship and giving backConnect with Greg Wood - Honeywood Wealth:🌐 Website: honeywoodwealth.com📧 Weekly Newsletter: Sign up at honeywoodwealth.com📱 Instagram: @honeywoodwealth📘 Facebook: @honeywoodwealth▶️ YouTube: @gregwood85🐦 X: @honeywoodwealth💼 LinkedIn: @gregwood85Greg works with clients at all life stages through Raymond James, providing independent financial advice and comprehensive wealth planning. Don't hesitate to reach out even if you're just starting your career - he can point you in the right direction or connect you with the right resources.Subscribe to Greg's mailing list for Friday insights on markets, investing ideas, and financial planning at honeywoodwealth.com

  11. 31

    From Fired at 19 to Skincare Entrepreneur: Lena's Story of Focus, Chemistry & Authentic Growth

    Lena Park built Hi By Lena—a clean skincare brand—around the legacy of her father, a chemical engineer and product formulator from South Korea. Starting during COVID with too many products, she learned the hard way that focus beats variety.In this episode, Lena shares why your skin needs both hydration AND moisture, why preservatives are slowly damaging your skin barrier, and how she built a six-figure business as a one-woman operation in Cochrane, Alberta.From getting fired at a sushi restaurant as a 19-year-old immigrant to becoming an expert in skincare chemistry, Lena's story is about sacrifice, precision, and saying no to things that don't align with your mission.**Listen for:** Product obsession, business pivoting, femmepreneur community, immigrant entrepreneurship, skincare science, and authentic marketing in 2026.#Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #Skincare #FemaleFounder #PodcastLife #BusinessTips #CanadianBusiness #CleanBeauty

  12. 30

    How Ben Pirija's Rockies Tavern Is Raising for Fire Department Heroes | Community-First Fundraiser

    SPECIAL EPISODE 🎙️In this powerful interview, we sit down with Ben Pirija of Rockies Tavern & Grill to discuss the BIGGEST fundraiser in the restaurant's history—happening this Saturday, January 17th.What started as an annual tradition of raising $2K-3K for the Redwood Meadows Fire Department has evolved into something MASSIVE.Why? Because in December, a devastating fire destroyed the fire station's secondary building—taking with it pumpers, vehicles, tools, equipment, and years of community infrastructure.Ben's response? Bring in the YYC Jazz Orchestra (11-piece band), coordinate with Johnny Summers, and make sure EVERY penny of profit goes directly to rebuilding these volunteer heroes' capacity.This episode covers:🔥 The tragedy that sparked action🎵 How to build strategic partnerships for fundraisers💰 The power of giving back (and why Ben donates his profits)👥 Community value exchange: How local businesses thrive when they invest in their community🎯 5+ years of consistent community support through COVID, closures, and challenges🏆 The real business lesson: Beloved status isn't bought—it's EARNED through consistent actionLearn what authentic community leadership looks like when a business owner decides to put community first.Perfect for: Small business owners, entrepreneurs, podcasters, community leaders, and anyone interested in building a REAL legacy.Featuring: Gregg Hinton & Ben Pirija📍 Bragg Creek, Alberta🎤 Bragg N' Bout Business PodcastNew episodes every week. Subscribe for raw conversations with local Alberta business leaders.#BraggCreek #SmallBusiness #Fundraiser #Community #Entrepreneurship #Alberta #Podcast #LocalBusiness #GivingBack #BusinessInterview

  13. 29

    Kelly Keddle: Building a Balloon Business in 1 Year | Luxe Occasions

    Kelly Keddle shares how she built Luxe Occasions—a balloon business generating $125-$500 per display—from zero to fully booked in one year. Learn balloon business pricing strategies, managing helium shortage costs, and building word-of-mouth marketing in Bragg Creek, Alberta.Topics: custom balloon displays, event decoration entrepreneurship, small business growth, service business challenges, Spider-Man displays, wedding decorations, and why face-to-face relationship building beats email marketing.Perfect for: Small business owners, entrepreneurs, event planners, and service business founders interested in real Alberta business growth stories

  14. 28

    Jeremy Larson from Airman Heating & Air Conditioning shares his journey from government employee to successful HVAC business owner.

    In this episode, Jeremy discusses:- Why he left job security to start his own HVAC company in 2019- How to decide whether to repair or replace your furnace- The real costs of modern high-efficiency heating systems- Why annual maintenance is your best investment- How small HVAC businesses compete with big corporations- Common heating and air conditioning questions answered- The importance of Google reviews for local service providersWith 20 years of experience as a journeyman refrigeration and air conditioning mechanic, Jeremy offers practical advice that helps Calgary homeowners make better decisions about their heating and cooling systems. He shares his honest insights into the HVAC industry, including why modern furnaces are more complex, what maintenance actually prevents costly breakdowns, and how to find trustworthy HVAC service.This episode is perfect for anyone considering entrepreneurship in the trades, homeowners facing heating/cooling decisions, or people supporting local small businesses in their community.A great listen if you're interested in: small business stories, HVAC industry insights, practical home maintenance tips, or entrepreneurial journeys in the skilled trades.Hosted by Gregg Hinton | Bragg N' Bout Business Podcast#BraggNBoutBusiness#SmallBusinessOwner#HVACExpert

  15. 27

    How to Triple Your Google Reviews in 2 Weeks | AJ Kolankowski, A to J Digital

    In this episode, Gregg Hinton interviews AJ Kolankowski, of A to J Digital, a Calgary-based agency helping small businesses build trust through Google reviews and digital marketing.AJ shares his journey from growing cannabis Instagram pages to building a reputation management company focused on integrity and trust. You'll learn why 95% of consumers trust Google reviews as much as referrals from friends and family, and the exact follow-up system A to J Digital uses to help clients like Floating Table Wellness triple their reviews in just two weeks.Key Takeaways:• The 2 biggest problems preventing businesses from getting reviews• Why asking 3+ times increases review rates to 90%• How to handle negative reviews to build more trust• The future of SEO and generative AI search• AJ's incredible family story from Auschwitz to entrepreneurshipDM "Bragg N' Bout Business" to @atojdigital on Instagram for free Google review resources.Connect: www.atoj.ca | @atojdigital#businesspodcast #entrepreneur #smallbusiness #digitalmarketing #googlereviews #localseo #calgarysmallbusiness #albertabusiness #entrepreneurpodcast #marketingtips #reputationmanagement #businessgrowth #podcastlife #braggcreek

  16. 26

    From Hobby to Business: Starting a Kombucha Brand in 3 Months | Lien Cani

    What happens when a failed job interview becomes the best thing that ever happened to you? Lien Cani, founder of Belcan Brew Kombucha, shares her journey from hobbyist to business owner in just three months.This episode is essential listening for anyone considering starting their own business. Lien opens up about the practical challenges of small-batch production, maintaining organic integrity, navigating temperature disasters, and learning to stand up for her values as a young entrepreneur.creators.spotify+1​Key Takeaways:How to identify when your hobby could become a viable businessThe importance of honest feedback (even from skeptical family members)Managing production challenges in food-based businessesBuilding authentic customer relationships from day oneWhy organic sourcing matters even when it's harderStanding firm on your values in the face of pushbackWhether you're brewing kombucha in your kitchen or dreaming about turning any passion into a business, Lien's story offers practical wisdom and inspiration.Guest: Lien Cani, Founder of Belcan Brew KombuchaLocation: Bragg Creek, Alberta, CanadaFollow Belcan Brew on Instagram and Facebook: @belcanbrew#entrepreneurship #smallbusiness #kombucha #startup #organicbusiness #braggcreek #alberta #businesspodcast #foodbusiness #youngentrepreneur

  17. 25

    35 Years of Healing: Jennifer Wright on Physiotherapy, Elite Athletes & Holistic Medicine

    Jennifer Wright shares 35 years of physiotherapy wisdom, from working with Olympic athletes to integrating Eastern and Western medicine in her Bragg Creek practice.Discover the truth about healing, the importance of holistic health, and the legacy of legendary healer Dr. Stephen Ong. Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or seeking wellness insights, this episode delivers practical wisdom for better health and business success.Contact Jennifer: [email protected]: Physiotherapy, Sports Medicine, Holistic Healing, Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, Red Light Therapy, Healthcare Business, Small Business, Alberta, Bragg Creek

  18. 24

    Evidence-Based Recruiting: Stop Hiring for Beer Buddies (And Start Hiring Winners)

    Most companies are hiring based on gut feeling—and it's showing. In this episode, Al Bassiri from Hammehr Talent Consultants breaks down the science of smart recruiting. Discover why one bad hire costs 2.5x their salary, how structured interviews improve both hiring quality AND candidate experience, and why your job postings might be broken. Plus: the wildest interview story you've ever heard (spoiler: lip-syncing candidates are a real thing). Whether you're hiring or job hunting, this episode will change how you think about recruitment.⏰ TIMESTAMPS:0:00 - Intro2:45 - What is Hammehr Talent Consultants?5:30 - The #1 Hiring Mistake (Gut Feeling Decisions)12:00 - Evidence-Based Recruiting Process Explained18:45 - Why Your Job Postings Are Broken22:15 - AI in Recruiting: Help or Hack?27:30 - The Craziest Interview Story Ever33:00 - Career Tips for Job Hunters38:45 - Three Questions Game42:00 - Personal Questions & Wrap-upBragg N' Bout Business is your go-to podcast for interviews with Calgary's most innovative small business owners and entrepreneurs. Hosted by Gregg Hinton, each episode dives deep into the stories, strategies, and secrets behind successful local businesses. From live social selling to recruitment innovation, we're bringing you the real conversations that matter. Subscribe now and discover what it takes to build and grow a thriving business.www.hammehr.com

  19. 23

    Lynn's Sourdough Bakery Co.

    This episode will make you feel all warm and crusty inside.No, I mean warm on the inside, and crusty on the outside. God damn it. You know what I mean. Welcome to another episode of Bragg N’ Bout Business! Brought you by the fine people down at Cowboy Trail Brewery – Cheers to the West! This week we get busy in the kitchen with Lynn Freeman of Lynn’s Sourdough Bakery Co. All of your burning questions on sour dough bread baking will be answered, such as “Is old sourdough starter actual better? What is the oldest known sourdough starter? And why does it taste so gd good?” and many more. Lynn is such a pleasure to be around, which makes the bread even better.Enjoy!

  20. 22

    Small Business Financial Planning with Karen Boudewyn

    Hey everyone. This episode is brought to you by Cowboy TrailBrewery – Cheers to the West! This week on Bragg N’ Bout Business we sit down with Karen Boudewyn of Core Financial Solutions. Karen shares with us some excellent tips for small business owners. Key person insurance, Buy-Sell Agreements? What the what? Yes, we cover some topics that are often missed by business owners and family run businesses too. Karen is a very down-to-earth person who is easy to talk to and who wants to help and protect families and small businesses. So listen up!Enjoy!

  21. 21

    Ripresa Wine

    Hello Listener! Welcome to another episode of Bragg N’ BoutBusiness! Brought to you by Cowboy Trail Brewery! Cheers to the West! This week is Small Business Week! And we sit down with the most interesting woman in Bragg Creek, Shannon Blakely of Restart Ranch and Ripresa Wine. Shannon’s unique Wine store focuses on clean wines from Europe that do not have the added ingredients most North American Wines contain, leading to a clean, fresh taste with none of those common side effects I experience when I dip into that big ol’ box of copper moon I got at Costco for $6.99. Shannon also gives us a sneak peek into her latest venture, Restart Ranch, a retreat for those needing to unplug and get back to detox from the stresses of modern life.Enjoy!

  22. 20

    Mark Kamachi - Rockyview Council Division 1 Candidate

    ATTENTION BRAGG CREEKERS!!! THIS IS A SPECIAL EDITION OF Bragg N’ Bout Business! 2025 Election Episode. Featuring one of Bragg Creek’s own – Mark Kamachi – Candidate for RVC Division #1 Councilor. Brought to you by – Cowboy Trail Brewery Cheers to the West. And hey before we get to Mark, the good people down at Cowboy Trail are launching a brand-new beer to their lineup– the Lock and Load Pilsner. Clean. Crisp. Straight shooting. Kinda like Mark Kamachi, come to think about it. Now Available at the Hut, Bragg CreekDistillery.Back to Mark. We spent some time with Mark this week getting to know our local candidate. We cover a lot of ground, from his time growing up picking blueberries and commercial fishing with his father, finding his path to becoming a successful creative in the marketing industry, his progression into entrepreneurism, finding Bragg Creek with his wife Tanya, all the way up to this second run for term as councilor in RVC Division one. A very likeable gentleman with a clear vision of what the future could look like for Bragg Creek. His purpose, he wants to help his community and county. So, take a few minutes and get to know Mark better.Enjoy!

  23. 19

    Auntie School with Jessie Fiddler-Kiss

    Welcome to Bragg N’ Bout Business! The podcast sharing the stories of small businesses and entrepreneurs in and around Bragg Creek, Alberta. Proudly brought to you by Cowboy Trail Brewery – Cheers to the West!This week, we do a little F’n around to find out with AuntieSchool! Jessie Fiddler-Kiss joins us in the Bnbb studio to introduce us to Auntie School and what its all about. She has some pretty cool activities you’ll be sure to want to check out. It’s probably not gonna be what you think it is. We dropsome f-bombs in this episode so for more sensitive viewers, cover your ears and hide your children.Enjoy!www.bnbb.cawww.auntieschool.com

  24. 18

    Bluerock Ranch

    Welcome to Bragg N’ Bout Business! The podcast telling thestories of local small businesses and entrepreneurs tin and around Bragg Creek, Alberta, Canada. Brought to you by ”Cowboy Trail Brewery!” Cheers to the West!Hey did you know our marquee sponsor, Cowboy Trail Brewery has won some accolades from the world beer awards? Indeed! Cowboy Trail Dark Ale – World’s Best Gold medal and Canadian Gold medalCowboy Trail Blonde (and my personal favorite) Silver MedalWheat Ale – took home Bronze.Congratulations to Jason and the team down at the brewery.Now go out and get some of their beer. I am your host Gregg Hinton. This week we speak with PeterFuerbringer of Bluerock Ranch. Bluerock calls one of the most picturesque locations in the foothills home – Mesa butte. About 30 minutes south of Bragg Creek at the end of the 762 highway. Peter and his wife Emma are serial entrepreneurs and have a horse ranch, Airbnb, and several other businesses. The conversation is full of great advice and their story is pretty cool.Enjoy! ⁠www.bnbb.cawww.bluerockranchalberta.com

  25. 17

    Archer Custom Fabrication

    Welcome to Bragg N’ Bout Business. Sponsored by Cowboy Trail Brewery – Cheers to the West! This week, we sit down with Aaron Archer of Archer Custom Fabrication. Aaron has built a great business in the Bragg Creek area, providing custom design and welding projects from gates and interior finishing to horse tack trailers and has even been tapped to design and create unique art installations. He is a family man, military veteran, artist and an incredibly hard-working gentleman.Enjoy!

  26. 16

    Moose Mountain Horseback Adventures

    Welcome to another episode of Bragg N’ Bout Business. Brought to you by the good people at Cowboy Trail Brewery – Cheers to the West. I am your host, Gregg Hinton. This week we have the privilege to sit down with Neil MacLaineof Moose Mountain Horseback Adventures. Neil and his family are long time Bragg Creek Area residents and has operated Moose Mountain Horseback Adventures for closeto 35 years, building it into one of the prestige pack trip tour operators on the Eastern Slopes of the Rockies. Neil also gives back to the local business community by giving his time and experience serving as the president the Bragg CreekChamber of Commerce for the past 2 years and president of the Alberta Outfitters Association. Neil has a wealth of experience and just a pleasure to speak with.Enjoy.

  27. 15

    Beaver Tooth Mulching

    This week on Bragg N’ Bout Business, we welcome Dennis and Tess Kaltenbrunner to the studio, the father-daughter team leading Beaver Tooth Mulching, a company specializing in acreage management of trees, brush cleaning, fire smarting, and cleanups. From removing bio-debris, cutting fence lines, trail building, and arborist services, when it comes to cleaning up your property, Beaver Tooth can help!It was a pleasure to speak with Dennis and Tess - arealstandup, down to earth family.Enjoy!www.btmden.com

  28. 14

    Channegel

    This week on Bragg N’ Bout Business, we welcome to thestudio, Lori Pederson of Channegel. Lori is a first responder in the city of Calgary, who has passion for mental health advocacy. Her start up, an apparel company – Channegel - which donates 15% of all proceeds to various mentalhealth support organizations. It is a very worthy cause and one she should be commended and supported for.Enjoy!

  29. 13

    Foothills Septic

    Public Service Announcement!!! The Bragg Creek Area is home to a lot of acreages. And with acreages comes a necessity to country life –Septic Systems. Everybody poops, and when you do send those grumpies packing with the royal flush, you want everything to go smoothly – we have the expert in the house this week -Sam Beaudoin of Foothills Septic. We talk about how to treat your septic system right, things to avoid and perhaps a few things you did not know about this essential service to our community.Enjoy!

  30. 12

    Hooked on Bragg

    This week on Bragg N’ Bout Business we sit down with one ofBragg Creek’s most prolific retailer, Harmke de Bruin, owner/operator of Hooked on Bragg. A hallmark in the shopping area here in Bragg Creek for nearly 4 years, Hooked on Bragg offers artisanal handcrafted Canadian made fine arts and giftware. Harmke also is heavily involved in the Arts community in the area. She has curated a beautiful shop which is a real adventure to browse through. Enjoy!

  31. 11

    Electric Mountain

    Happy Canada Day Everybody! Welcome to Bragg N’ BoutBusiness – the local Bragg Creek small business podcast connecting entrepreneurs to locals and visitors. Proudly sponsored by Cowboy Trail Brewery, Cheers to the West!This week, we sit down with Bragg creek Chamber member Jayden Paul of Electric Mountain. Electric Mountain provides unique 3 season outdoor experiences with electric dirt bikes and snow biking in the winter months. Jayden is all in on this relatively new sport to the area.And I must say it looks and sounds pretty cool.Enjoy!

  32. 10

    Alberta 66 Mountain Biking

    Welcome to Bragg N’ Bout Business, sponsored by Cowboy Trail Brewery, Cheers to the West! This week we are gonna shred the gnar, with Jeff Woodgate of Alberta 66 Mountain Biking. Jeff and his wife Laura Mislan, have built a highly successful mountain bike touring and instruction company that also provides shuttling services on Moose Mountain and throughout k-country. Jeff walks us through how the business has evolved and how they have listened to their customers in order to curate the services they provide. I learned a lot about this type of business and I am sure you will too.Enjoy!

  33. 9

    Bragg N' Bout Business Rewind - The Compilation

    Welcome to Episode #8 of Bragg N’ Bout Business! The past 2months have been an incredibly fun experience getting to know our local entrepreneurs. And there are many more untold stories yet to come!But this week, we are going to celebrate and revisit ourguests from the past several weeks, share some new content, and highlights of the episodes. If you didn’t get a chance to listen to all the episodes yet,you are in for treat! You will get some great content from those interviews in quick, short clips. Turkey & Pistols, Big Earl’s Dirt and Snow, Peak Ambition,KK Academy, River People Guides, PFSL Investments, and Von Essen.#1 To kick it off – Bigfoot – do you believe? Enjoy!And don't forget to visit www.bnbb.ca !

  34. 8

    Episode #7 - Dominik Von Essen

    This week, we sit down with Dominik Von Essen, of the Von Essen German Restaurant here in Bragg Creek. It was a real pleasure to get to know Dominik a bit. He is such a genuine person, and he and his family have overcome enormous obstacles to open the doors of Von Essen. We talk through that, the challenges of running a restaurant, the fulfillment he finds in being a restaurateur, …..just a really fun conversation. And we even get to meet his mom, Ute.Enjoy.

  35. 7

    Episode #6 - Trish Vansickle of PFSL Investments

    Welcome to another episode of Bragg N’ Bout Business! We are all the way up to #6! Where we sit down with Trish Vansickle of PFSL Investments. We talk about the uncomfortable subject for many people – money. Trish shares how she started in the financial world and her approach to helping families and individuals look at their financial situation in perhaps a new light. She  also speaks on her passion for helping people with disabilities save for the future. So if you or someone you know has a disability, please listen and share the episode, as it could really help someone you love.Enjoy!Check out Trish's website at  https://livemore.net/trvansickle

  36. 6

    Episode #5 - River People Guides - Os Hamzic

    This week on Bragg N’ Bout Business, RPG – River People Guides! Os Hamzic joins us at his new retail fly fishing shop in Bragg Creek. We are very excited to feature RPG on the podcast as it is one of our newest businesses in the hamlet, just opening up this past April.Os is one of those truly great Canadian immigrant stories. Hecovers his time growing up in war-torn Bosnia, to finding his way to Canada in search of the mountain life, serving in the Canadian Armed Forces, and finding his passion in guiding and fly fishing. This man is living his dream, and he choseBragg Creek to call his business home.Enjoy!

  37. 5

    Episode #4 - Kieran Keddle Academy

    Welcome to episode #4 of Bragg N’ bout Business! Brought to you by, Cowboy Trail Brewery – Cheers to the West! This week we feature Kieran Keddle of the Kieran KeddleAcademy located here in Bragg Creek and also the newest location in Cochrane, Alberta.I really enjoyed listening to Kieran’s story and his approach to the business of coaching. We cover a lot of territory from his time growing up in Kent in the southeast of England, his growth through becoming a world champion, making theswitch to becoming a world class coach, making the move to Bragg Creek, and we even hear of how his path crossed with some celebrities over the years with a couple of cool stories included. Along with what the future holds for Double KAcademy.Enjoy!

  38. 4

    Peak Ambition - Adrian Turner

    Episode 3 features Adrian Turner of Peak Ambition. PeakAmbition is a local small business focusing on introducing youth to wide variety of sports through community recreation services with a view to developing skills that are applicable to all sport. Such as discipline, self-confidence, passion, and respect. All traits’ parents want to instill in their children.Adrian is super cool. His passion for developing the skillsof young people through sport is contagious. I will let him tell his story, but what he has created in Peak Ambition here in Bragg Creek is a tremendous benefit for the community, especially in helping parents develop skills in their children that will serve them well in all aspects of their life.What is even cooler is Peak Ambition is a family business with Adrian’s wife and sons participating in the business too.Enjoy!

  39. 3

    Episode #2 - Big Earl's Dirt and Snow

    This week we sit down with the Earl himself, Rich Kilbride of Big Earl’s Dirt and Snow, out of Redwood Meadows, Alberta. Rich is one of the most down to earth gentlemen I have had the pleasure of meeting. He also knows a thing or two about fencing, which is how I originally met him, as he built our acreage fence. We talk about the great community of redwood meadows, how other local landscape construction companies work together, rather than cutthroat compete, his path to starting Big Earl’s, and yes, we even get a little political. Enjoy!Like and Subscribe! Thank you!

  40. 2

    Episode #1 - Turkey & Pistols

    This week…..we speak with Rob Sawchuk of Turkey & Pistolsin Bragg Creek. Now Rob is one of the coolest people I have had the pleasure to speak with. Just a genuine gentleman who loves his life, his wife, and his community. He shares his story of how he became a small business owner from a humble start in Lone Rock, Saskatchewan. People that helped him along the way and how he is passing it forward. Enjoy!

  41. 1

    The Pilot! Bragg N' Bout Business

    In this short pilot episode we discuss how the podcast came to be, what we hope to accomplish, and why you will want to tune in each week.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Welcome to Bragg N’ Bout Business, the podcast that shines a spotlight on incredible entrepreneurs and business owners in and around Bragg Creek, Alberta. Each week we pull back the curtain on local storefronts, fantastic restaurants, skilled tradespeople, and dedicated service providers—giving them the chance to share their inspiring stories of resilience and success. You'll connect with the faces behind the businesses you love, discover some hidden gems, and be reminded how your support makes a remarkable difference in our communities.

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Bragg N' Bout Business Podcast

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Bragg N' Bout Business Podcast have?

Bragg N' Bout Business Podcast currently has 41 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Bragg N' Bout Business Podcast about?

Welcome to Bragg N’ Bout Business, the podcast that shines a spotlight on incredible entrepreneurs and business owners in and around Bragg Creek, Alberta. Each week we pull back the curtain on local storefronts, fantastic restaurants, skilled tradespeople, and dedicated service providers—giving...

How often does Bragg N' Bout Business Podcast release new episodes?

Bragg N' Bout Business Podcast has 41 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Bragg N' Bout Business Podcast?

You can listen to Bragg N' Bout Business Podcast on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Bragg N' Bout Business Podcast?

Bragg N' Bout Business Podcast is created and hosted by Bragg N' Bout Business Podcast.
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