The MBA Way

Send us Fan Mail​​Trevor Parry is a lawyer, father, and unapologetic patriot who helps entrepreneurs and professionals minimize taxes and navigate financial complexity. Grounded in a strong belief in limiting government overreach, Trevor provides strategic guidance and select financial solutions that empower clients to grow, protect, and preserve their wealth.He brings an objective, battlefield-level perspective to each situation—working alongside existing teams to answer key questions: What can I do? What can’t I do? What’s the risk? With clarity and precision, he helps clients face complexity head-on.Trevor also speaks openly about the troubling direction of Canada’s political landscape. Drawing from the allegory of Leviathan, he warns of increasing state control disguised as security—something he believes is pushing businesses and families to leave Canada, many never to return.At the core of Trevor’s work is a belief that we must shift the narrative: it’s time to celebrate success, embrace growth, and champion those who create value in the world.What’s Inside:The allegory of LeviathanMinimizing taxes and maximizing entrepreneurial freedomA look at the political landscape in Canada and its effects on entrepreneursMentioned In This Episode: Trevor [email protected] CPA 

Send us Fan MailLarry Rubin, known as "The Gift Card Guy," saw a market being overlooked—small, independent businesses lacked the tools and guidance to create effective gift and loyalty programs. That’s why he founded Swipe It, a company dedicated to helping mom-and-pop shops implement customized gift card solutions with as few as 100 cards to start.Originally launched as an off-campus meal plan card, Swipe It evolved into a powerful technology platform that allows restaurants and retailers to create their own branded gift cards. Business owners benefit in multiple ways—gift cards drive upfront revenue, and since nearly 30% of them go unredeemed, they create pure profit. Even better, when customers do redeem them, 61% spend more than the card’s value—an average of $31.75 extra.Swipe It’s system also simplifies tracking, helping businesses monitor sold, redeemed, donated, and promotional gift cards with ease. Additionally, local Chamber of Commerce gift card programs, supported by Swipe It, boost small businesses by keeping spending within the community.The key takeaway? A gift card isn’t just a convenience—it’s a powerful business tool. Be sure to listen to the end for Larry’s awesome tip for a business card that not only leaves a lasting impression but also drives revenue.What’s Inside:The creation of gift cards for small merchants.The power of a gift card program for small businessesA one-stop shop for creation, sale, and tracking for your gift card needs.Mentioned In This Episode:Larry Rubin on LinkedIn SwipeItMBA CPA 

Send us Fan Mail“The most important part of my practice is how I relate to the people I serve.” Guest, Dr. Michael Sonick, is not only a globally recognized expert in dental implantology and periodontology—he’s also the author of Treating People, Not Patients. This groundbreaking book isn’t just for dental or medical professionals; it’s for anyone in the service industry who wants to elevate the way they connect with others.Dr. Sonick emphasizes a truth often overlooked: social and interpersonal skills are critical to healing and success. “When people feel better, they heal better,” he explains. It’s not about rushing to serve more people faster—it’s about delivering quality care with genuine connection and building lifelong relationships, not just transactions.Too often, care is limited by fear-based barriers—lack of access to doctors, impersonal service, or rigid systems. Dr. Sonick believes that true professionals work to break down these walls by embracing authenticity and connection. It’s not about having all the answers, but about being real, approachable, and willing to meet people where they are. By creating understanding and trust, service providers can bring clients into their world and make them feel valued, supported, and informed.So, how do you build a standout, people-first business? Dr. Sonick walks through his proven system—from the power of referrals to the impression your website and phone calls make, down to the smallest details of your office environment.Pro tips? Clean your office every day. Have clean, well-presented staff in matching uniforms. Remove potential issues before they arise—because the first impression sets the tone, and you are the habits you display.What’s Inside:The power of people skills.Refining the details that build a first impression.The importance of connection and vulnerability.Mentioned In This Episode: Michael Sonick [email protected] Michael Sonick on Instagram @drmsonick Michael Sonick on Facebook Michael Sonick on LinkedIn MBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down with Grace Gavin, co-founder of Know Honesty, to explore the power of open and honest communication in the workplace. When employees feel heard and respected, they are 4.6 times more productive—but fostering this culture requires more than just listening.Grace unpacks the nature of power dynamics in leadership and why many companies struggle to implement proven systems. She shares how organizations can move from low-honesty-low-openness to a culture of high-honesty-high-openness, emphasizing that leaders must go first in creating this shift.We also dive into Know Honesty’s six-practice framework, covering:Assessment – Understanding your communication baselineFake You – The persona you present vs. your true selfThe Wall – The barriers blocking real conversationsThe Agreement – Establishing communication boundariesThe Still – Building self-awareness through reflectionYour Pursuit – Gaining clarity on what you truly wantPlus, Grace shares a personal and vulnerable story that shaped her approach to honesty. Check out the free honesty assessment below and don’t miss this insightful conversation!What’s Inside:What is the mission behind Know Honesty?How can an open and honest workplace increase productivity?6 process framework for the pursuit of honesty.Mentioned In This Episode: [email protected] HonestyGrace Gavin on LinkedInFree Resource: The Pursuit of Honesty AssessmentMBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailThis is one thing in life that is an absolute certainty: death. So how you leave your business, assets, and responsibilities behind matters. Sandy Pollack, CFP, CLU, TEP, FEA, MFA-P, is akin to the MBA Way with her collaborative, comprehensive approach to Estate Planning.  Without a plan, your loved ones could be left with unnecessary headaches, legal battles, and financial chaos.The key to disaster-proofing your legacy is intentionality. Your wealth should serve your lifetime and be strategically put to use after you're gone. Open communication with your family about inheritance is crucial—silence often leads to the “lottery crisis," disputes, resentment, and estate litigation that benefits lawyers more than your beneficiaries.Work with collaborative professionals who can guide you through a seamless planning process. Estate planning is not a one-time event but a living, breathing process that evolves with your life. Whether it’s structuring your business, setting up trusts, or having honest conversations with your heirs, every step you take today ensures a smoother future for your family.Don’t Leave a Mess provides actionable steps and exercises to help you take control. Don’t wait until retirement—start today! Your legacy should be a gift, not a burden.What’s Inside:Why is Estate Planning important?What happens when you don't prepare and plan?When should you start planning your estate?Mentioned In This Episode: Don’t Leave a Mess!MBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailToday’s guest, Beau Atkins, founder of Evolve Family Law, and I agree—billing by the hour is bull****. The outdated model of charging by the hour? Dead. May 2020 marked the end of that nonsense for Beau’s firm.Law firms have long resisted the entrepreneurial mindset, clinging to archaic structures instead of operating like the best-run businesses. But here’s the truth: clients aren’t buying your time. They’re seeking certainty, peace of mind, and solutions.At Evolve Family Law, Beau has built something different—quite possibly the only law office in the world using value-based pricing with payment plans. Instead of justifying price by the clock, he factors in experience, the local economy, and client needs, creating a sliding-scale pricing model that actually makes sense.And let’s stop using the F-word (fee). Price isn’t just a charge—it’s an investment. Clients deserve the power to make informed decisions about that investment, just like in any other industry.When you see a flaw in the model, you change it. Beau’s mindset isn’t just for lawyers—whether you’re an accountant, shop owner, or consultant, look beyond your industry. Learn from the best entrepreneurs and apply those principles to your own business.If you need family law assistance, reach out to Beau Atkins at Evolve Family Law.What’s Inside:Why billing by the hour has to die.An “Evolved” value-based pricing for law.Empowering clients to assess risk on investment.Looking to outside industries to improve your business.Mentioned In This Episode: Evolve Family LawBeau Atkins on LinkedIn MBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailIn this follow-up conversation with Krista Clive-Smith, we dive deeper into personal branding and its critical role in shaping your life and career. If you missed Part 1 (Episode 18), we recommend starting there, where we introduced two foundational frameworks, The Triangle and The Model. Krista highlights that personal branding is the business model of the future. It’s your ultimate competitive advantage—something nobody else can duplicate. Your unique essence, experiences, and purpose form the cornerstone of this strategy.Krista walks us through a powerful Venn diagram with four intersecting circles: Innate qualities, Learned skills, Life experiences & adversity, and finally Desires & calling. At the very center, these align to reveal your pathway to Purpose. Krista encourages you to explore your intuition, trust your hunches, and take small but meaningful risks. The changes might not be drastic—often, they’re small shifts that create a big impact over time.Krista reframes the concept of a career, reminding us that it’s not just a job—it’s the body of work you create throughout your lifetime. She challenges us to align (and realign) our life choices to reflect the season we’re in and the life we want to lead.Krista emphasizes the importance of answering three questions to shape your personal brand and career path:What life do you want to lead?What business do you want to be in?Who do you want to serve?The first two questions are deeply interconnected, continually reflecting and influencing one another. As for the third, Krista suggests that the people you’re meant to serve are often a former version of yourself—someone who needs what you’ve learned along your journey.Personal branding isn’t just about what you do; it’s about who you are and how you can create a meaningful impact in the world. Step into your purpose with courage, align your work with your calling, and watch your life and career transform.What’s Inside:What is the business model of the future?The competitive advantage of the unique YOU!A venn diagram toward purpose.Three critical questions of alignment. Mentioned In This Episode: Krista Clive-Smith MBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailMaximizing your PR visibility is all about leveraging on-screen opportunities to tell your story effectively—and Kerry Barrett is here to help you master it. With over 20 years in the news industry, from small-town Texas to big city NYC, Kerry has the on-camera experience. She breaks down the difference between advertising, where you “pay to play,” and PR, which is about earning media publicity through your expertise. In this exploratory meeting, Kerry breaks down the essentials of using on-camera PR to your advantage.One of the biggest obstacles entrepreneurs face in PR is crafting a pitch that resonates. Many pitches fall flat because they’re framed from a marketing perspective rather than a news angle. The key, Kerry explains, is to focus less on yourself and more on what value you bring to the audience. It’s about telling the story behind what you’re trying to accomplish and framing your pitch in a way that grabs attention. Thoughtful interview preparation—complete with layered answers, impactful sound bites, and a clear focus on three main takeaways—makes all the difference.Kerry also emphasizes the importance of adaptability. The interviewer likely isn’t an expert in your field, so it’s up to you to steer the conversation. Pivot questions as needed and avoid overwhelming the audience with information. Instead, highlight your three core points, ensuring your audience walks away with the message you want to deliver. For more personalized training, Kerry offers a one-on-one video coaching course. Reach out to her on LinkedIn to get started!What’s Inside:How to maximize your PR visibility.What’s the difference between advertising and PR?How to effectively pitch a PR opportunity.How to pivot questions for your best interview yet.The rule of 3 when it comes to sharing information with an audience.Mentioned In This Episode:[email protected] Barret on LinkedInKerry Barrett on InstagramMBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailDarren Mitchell of Control and Compound breaks down life insurance facts you didn’t even know were available—insights you can use to build your wealth. To become truly wealthy, you need to invest in yourself, your business, and your real estate. When you’re not investing, you’re giving up control of your money to the bank.Life insurance has two components: the death benefit and the cash value. By lowering the death benefit, you can raise the cash value, creating a powerful financial tool that multiplies your money. This allows you to stay in control, seize opportunities, and handle emergencies effectively.On the podcast, Darren explores term life insurance, permanent insurance, and whole life policies. Did you know only 1% of term life insurance policies pay out in Canada? Whole life insurance, however, can help maximize wealth by creating a cash-value asset that grows tax-free. This asset provides benefits such as tax-free growth, cash surrender value that doesn’t lose value, and no impact on your credit score.For those unfamiliar with these concepts, Darren emphasizes that financial education is crucial. Different life insurance policies serve different needs depending on your goals and life stage. At Control and Compound, the focus is on optimizing the cash value asset to work for you—even though it means less payout for them. Their goal is to ensure your insurance plan aligns with your broader financial picture, empowering you to build a secure and prosperous future.What’s Inside:What you didn’t know about life insurance?How to use life insurance to control your money and build wealth.Creating a cash value asset with life insurance. Understanding the difference between term, permanent, and whole life insurance.Financial education to ensure your insurance is the right fit.Mentioned In This Episode:Free Resources for Listeners:Expert Investor Academy | Control and Compound FinancialControl and Compound (@controlandcompound) on TikTokControl and Compound on YouTubeControl and Compound (@controlandcompound) on InstagramControl and CompoundControl and Compound FinancialHow Real Estate Investors Use Infinite Banking to Multiply Their Returns WebinarMBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailPaul Aemisegeo’s journey to founding Payroll Mart is a testament to entrepreneurial grit and vision. Just after college, Paul discovered he "didn’t fit the ADP mold," a realization that led him to a successful path in benefits and insurance. This experience gave him invaluable insights into the payroll industry, highlighting key challenges: the lack of personalized solutions for clients and the transactional approach of salespeople focused solely on closing deals.Paul’s deep understanding of benefits and payroll inspired him to create a business that prioritized relationships over transactions. His philosophy? Sales should deliver value that outlasts the contract.Through Payroll Mart, Paul embodies entrepreneurship by transforming low productivity into meaningful outcomes. He shares the highs and lows of his journey, emphasizing three keys to success:Create value before expecting it—success starts with solving real problems.Burn the boats, take the island—fully commit to your vision.Be a relationship builder—people are the heart of business.Paul also stresses the power of ideas: “Write them down, never let anyone tell you you’re crazy, and never think you have too many!”If you’re seeking innovative payroll solutions or entrepreneurial inspiration, connect with Paul via LinkedIn or email at [email protected]. His story proves that breaking the mold can lead to exceptional results.What’s Inside:Embodying the spirit of entrepreneurship.Why it’s okay to not fit the mold!3 keys to entrepreneurial success.Paul Aemisegeo’s entrepreneurial journey.Mentioned In This Episode:PayrollMartShuttleHRPaul Aemisegeo - PayrollMart on LinkedInMBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailGuest, friend, and inspiring human Krista Clive-Smith breaks down the power of personal branding in today's episode. Personal branding, she explains, is not about ego; it's about aligning your authentic self and personal story, distinct from your business ventures and organizations.Krista introduces the "Personal Branding Triangle," which outlines the three core principles of a personal brand which are what you DO, what you KNOW, and what you ARE, all framed within a growth-oriented mindset (the yellow border). This concept emphasizes working with healthy belief systems and a mindset focused on growth and expansion.Once we’ve defined a personal brand, we explore what it means to flip the traditional structure of company branding. By placing personal branding at the top, we separate it from the organizational brand. Krista reminds us that change is inevitable, and if we entangle our identity too closely with our company, rather than the other way around, we create risk and limit our options.Taking time to establish a personal brand enables our authenticity and humanity to shine through, which in turn is reflected in our companies’ cultures. Krista leaves us with a powerful analogy: our personal brand is like a theme park, and our business ventures are the distinct lands within this cohesive personal brand.Krista has generously offered to connect with listeners as a “go-giver.” You can reach out to her via email or learn more by visiting her website.What’s Inside:What is personal branding?Three core principles of your personal brand.Why we should separate our personal brand from our company brand.An an authentic personal brand reflects in company culture. Mentioned In This Episode:Krista Clive-Smith [email protected] MBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailSusan Latremoille advocates a holistic approach to financial advisory, addressing a key issue: many people reach retirement or other major life transitions only to feel less fulfilled than expected. Through Next Chapter Lifestyle Advisors, she trains and empowers financial advisors (and accountants and lawyers) to recognize the deeper challenges people face and guides them in helping clients prepare effectively for life after a career. As well as helping those pre-planning, on the cusp, or already retired. Life transitions—retirement, selling a business, or stepping away from work—can disrupt a person’s social connections, identity, purpose, and structure (SIPS). Without thoughtful planning, these changes often lead to isolation, illness, and other adverse effects. While the “honeymoon phase” of retirement feels exciting, it eventually leaves many wondering, “What’s next?”. Susan is on a mission to retire the word retirement. It’s just the next chapter. Susan suggests that preparing for life’s next chapter is like working with a trainer; it’s a best practice that ensures a smoother transition. Her Ironclad Process is designed to help clients build a “happiness portfolio” by connecting their financial and life goals. Her “rich life” philosophy centers on three key principles: live well, give back, and leave a legacy.By creating a comprehensive life plan, followed by a financial plan and suitable products, clients can cultivate a truly fulfilling life. Retirement isn’t the end; it’s an opportunity to write a new, purpose-driven chapter.What’s Inside:Why we need to RETIRE the word Retirement.SIPS, the common challenges that come with transitioning from your career.How financial advisors can assist with your happiness portfolio.The three pillars of a “Rich Life”. Mentioned In This Episode:Next Chapter Lifestyle Advisors MBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailBrian Stephenson is what we like to call a "recovering lawyer," and his business partner is a "recovering accountant." Together, they created Lakepoint Capital Partners, a commercial lending specialty firm with a mission to make debt work for business owners rather than against them.The ideal clients for Lakepoint are those looking to acquire new facilities, optimize existing ones, or possibly acquire smaller businesses. Lakepoint accesses an array of private institutional lenders for real estate lending and collaborates with banks, credit unions, and long-standing lenders with whom their clients already have relationships. In a challenging industry environment where capital is harder to access and debt is difficult to obtain, even for bankable clients, Lakepoint works with all the banks that want to work with you, ensuring you get the best deal. For entrepreneurs, being told what to do can feel like a death sentence, so Lakepoint helps structure flexibility and a range of possibilities with lenders.There are many advantages to having pre-approval in your back pocket, so even if you're not ready for a deal just yet, Lakepoint can guide you in putting together a robust legal and financial team to position you for future lending. Many businesses have untapped assets that allow them to access the right type of debt. Get the debt that works for you and the future you want.What’s Inside:How to make your debt work for you.The ideal client for Lakepoint Capital Partners.The value in debt flexibility and preapproval.Mentioned In This Episode:Lakepoint [email protected] CPA 

Send us Fan MailRoss Derrick is the owner of Derrick’s Steakhouse, a 1950s-inspired steakhouse with a modern flair. Entrepreneurs are driven by the desire to create value and contribute to the world, and that's exactly what Ross does. After a decade of side hustles, his entrepreneurial journey wasn't a choice—it was a necessity. When faced with a major holiday where he couldn’t get the day off to spend time with his daughter and was unable to find a babysitter, he knew he had to make a change. So, he took a bold step, secured an investment, and launched what is now a restaurant group known for its renowned culture of positivity.Ross admits, “I’m not great at anything, but I’m good at a lot of things,” which allows him to rely on the expertise and creativity of his employees. His approach of listening to his staff fosters a sense of cohesiveness and empowerment within his business. By prioritizing a positive work environment over just delivering a great customer experience, Ross has built a company where people actually enjoy working. You might wonder—what’s his secret formula? Ross credits his leadership style to a heavy dose of empathy, leading with his heart, trusting his intuition, and believing in his team. He cares about people, and they can feel that.The hospitality industry is unique. Some employees build lifelong careers, while others are just passing through. But regardless of the path, it’s a field where you can learn a lot about professionalism and life. You can enjoy this atmosphere at any of Ross's establishments: Broken Anchor Kitchen, Broken Anchor Catering, Globe Café and Restaurant, and, of course, Derrick’s Steakhouse.What’s Inside:An entrepreneurial journey born through drive and necessity.The major impact of empathy and positivity in leadership.The unique possibilities of the hospitality industryA restaurant group with renowned culture and guest experience.Mentioned In This Episode:Derrick's SteakhouseMBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailAnyone running a brand anywhere must embody an entrepreneurial spirit. Today’s guest, Kristin Holomis, Founder of Le Dog Company, exemplifies this perfectly. Le Dog is a premium orthopedic leather dog bed company, born from Kristin’s passion for both dogs and style.Being a business owner and entrepreneur is about identifying gaps in the market and creating value to fill them. Kristin describes her niche as ‘White Space’—while there are markets for “disposable” dog beds, well-known luxury brands, and comfort-centric options, Le Dog offers something unique: a blend of style and function. As the only non-launderable pet bed on the market, the brand has achieved a 30% return customer rate, highlighting the impact of her product.So, what does the future hold for Le Dog? For entrepreneurs, building energy and passion behind a brand is key. Kristin aims to achieve this by fostering a community of loyal, like-minded dog owners, which she’s already started through her Ambassador Program. Thanks to Kristin, MBA listeners can “Live the Le Dog Life” with a 20% discount using the MBAWAY20 code on the Le Dog Company website.What’s Inside:The importance of entrepreneurial spirit.Finding “White Space” to create value in the world.Using community building to create loyal customers and a lasting brand story.A special discount for listeners at Le Dog Company.Mentioned In This Episode:Le Dog [email protected] MBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailAfter a brief but enjoyable discussion about his Scottish heritage and Scotland's football, we get into the main reason Scott McKee, Senior Investment Counselor at Cardinal Capital Management, is with us today. Cardinal Capital is opening a new location in Kelowna.The financial world is full of alphabet soup titles, with no shortage of designations for financial advisors, Scott explains. He breaks down the meaning of some of the most common acronyms: CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst), CFP (Certified Financial Planner), CIM (Chartered Investment Manager), PFP (Personal Financial Planner), RFP (Registered Financial Planner), and more.But what do these designations mean, and how do you pick the right advisor? Scott highlights three key points to consider when searching for the right financial advisor:Look for the CFP (Certified Financial Planner) designation.Consider the advisor’s experience, as well as your own experiences with previous advisors.Trust your gut and do your due diligence.If you’re in the market for an advisor, you might want to consider if you are the right fit for Cardinal Capital. At Cardinal, they focus on growing your income, maintaining consistency, and educating you as a client in an easy-to-understand manner. At the Kelowna location, you can expect to find six independent advisors. However, Cardinal Capital works with over 100 independent advisors in total, with more transitioning to in-house roles all the time.What’s Inside:Cardinal Capital opening in Kelowna.What to look for in a financial advisor?Are you the right fit for Cardinal Capital Management?Mentioned In This Episode:Cardinal Capital Management MBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailJeff Swan from Sellside M&A has introduced an innovative platform called A Happy eXit tailored for business owners navigating the transition process. As two-thirds of business owners, particularly baby boomers, are preparing to retire or make transitions, A Happy eXit is designed to support those with businesses valued between $5 million and $50 million, especially in industrial sectors. Beyond the straightforward sale price, the platform emphasizes the importance of recognizing the hidden value in a business, such as intellectual property, licenses, strategic advantages, unique processes, and company culture. Their four-component assessment framework—focusing on financial health, legal aspects, operational processes, and revenue—ensures a comprehensive approach to selling a business.With A Happy eXit, business owners gain access to everything they need for a successful transition, including expert coaching, essential tools, and a supportive community. The platform is set to launch in September, and those interested can join the waitlist to be among the first notified. Additionally, the first 100 people who sign up will receive free lifetime access to A Happy Exit's invaluable resources, making this a crucial opportunity for those planning their next chapter.What’s Inside:An exciting new platform for business owners.An important look at the hidden value in  businesses.Don’t miss the awesome incentive to join A Happy Exit. Mentioned In This Episode:A Happy eXitSellside M&ASellside M&A: Exit Readiness GraderMBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailSteve Geddes is a new friend of mine, and when we hit it off, I knew I had to have him share his incredible business story and advice on the podcast. Steve’s journey is a masterclass in understanding and scaling a business. He emphasizes that to scale effectively, you must understand every facet of your business—from the overall flow to the finer details. In order to deliver on your promises, you need to grasp the whole process. Steve knows there’s no magic pill for business success, but the closest thing to it is having a solid template and truly understanding your market. His approach combines passion, hard work, and strong relationships, shunning the “spray and pray” marketing tactics for targeted efforts where customers are most likely to be found.Steve explains where he finds opportunities and customers via commercial work; more so, he emphasizes the potential of referrals, which generate warm leads and drive growth. Steve advises selling with passion and marketing as a “product enthusiast” rather than the traditional negative association many might have with a salesperson. This shift is critical to connecting with customers genuinely. Importantly, he notes that you don't need to be your business's target customer; instead, you must understand and find excitement in whatever you’re doing. This enthusiasm will resonate with customers and naturally lead to sales, making your business thrive. Steve was generous enough to share his phone number and email so that The MBA Way listeners could pick his brain even more!What’s Inside:Is the way you’re scaling your business working?Selling with passion; no more toxic salesman.The “secret” to understanding your business and delivering promises.Referrals: The underrated lead generator.Mentioned In This Episode:Call or Text Steve: [email protected] Leather Repair, Plastic, Vinyl Restoration: Fibrenew KelownaMBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailThis Client Spotlight episode features MBA client Lucas Griffin, president of Secure-Rite. These spotlights serve the purpose of providing insightful advice and resources to help other entrepreneurs in their business and life.Secure-Rite founded in 2005, is changing the way the world views and uses shipping containers, bringing people and portable spaces together in meaningful ways. Lucas shares his journey to launch, leading up to his great team in multiple provinces 19 years later. His entrepreneurial journey is one of change and growth, as he is always learning and creating new value in the world.Lucas fires off a harsh reality; owning a business is not an easy way to make money. And in the same vein, it can’t be your only purpose. Fired up by his customers and his team, Lucas is engaged in a bigger purpose, something he outlines in the Secure-Rite Values: Community, Excellence, Agility, and Cowboy Grit. He also highlights three critical positions in any business you must have clearly defined values, purpose, and roles. We could have taken this conversation down many roads, but it is an inspiration to hear about Secure-Rite’s innovation in the storage and shipping container industry as well as Lucas’s skills and passion as a leader and entrepreneur.  What’s Inside:Client Spotlight: Secure-Rite, innovation in the storage and shipping container industry.3 critical positions for every entrepreneur to define in their business.Finding purpose in your business beyond financial success.Secure-Rites’ values and how they contribute to their operations.Mentioned In This Episode:Secure-Rite Mobile StorageEOS Worldwide Wholehearted Leaders MBA CPA 

Send us Fan Mail“To get the best marketing results, you’ll need to assemble a team of badass people to work with you. Luckily, we have them in spades and raring to go.” That’s pulled straight from William Walczak's website at Hiilite and its the same energy he brings to today’s conversation.William works to bridge the gap between the scientific engineer brain and the aesthetic brain, formulating a total genius design and marketing combination. People do business with people who are passionate about their business; that has to translate into everything you do. Hiilite hallmarks on three topics we really get into in this chat.Everything Communicates! — this profound statement means you literally cannot afford not to be intentional with every aspect of your business.Where are you cringeworthy??? —Find those impediments to growth and make a change!!You can't manage what you can't measure! — Data across companies, growth charting, and maximizing ROI—William explains all these crucial points.If you bring in a professional to tell you what the next best step is, it is almost certainly going to be whatever they are selling. Hiilite helps you see what you need to see, so that your business can grow!What’s Inside:Bridging the gap between science and aesthetics in marketing.Communicating your business to the world and ideal clients.Finding your impediments to growth.Why data measurement is important in the growth process.Mentioned In This Episode:HiiliteWilliam Walczak, MBA - The University of British Columbia | LinkedInWilliam Walczak on InstagramMBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailTony Woods shares his impressive resume, working with National Money Mart, BC Ferries, and now as the owner and president of THINK Communications, working with business owners with white glove IT services.THINK stands for Truth, Honesty, Integrity, Networking and Knowledge; their tagline is "Great People, Great Ideas." As a company, they focus on two key areas, Left of Boom and Right of Boom because it's not a matter of if it happens, it's when it happens. As Tony describes it, Left of Boom is how well you're protecting your organization from cyber threats. Right of boom is ok; they've got you; how well can you recover from it.Tony advises on a major point of protection: 14 Character Passphrases and multifactor authentication. You can also focus on training your human firewall with phishing campaigns. The truth is, ignorance is not bliss, and while Tony points out that you don't truly need cyber insurance, you do need protection, and the best suited one is from a professional IT service like THINK.THINK today offers a Security Stack that includes specific pieces of software on machines to block the execution of unknown files, 24x7x365 real-time monitoring from a SOC (security operations center), and other tools of the trade. Including MDR - Manage, Detect, Respond. And for free, they offer an Attack Surface Report and a Blast Radius report.What’s Inside:How to protect your business from cyber threats.How to create better password protection.The Security Stack with THINK.Training your human firewall.Mentioned In This Episode:[email protected] Communication Inc.MBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailADHD is not synonymous with unruly school kids, it's about a different process going on in the brain. André Brisson, host of The Impulsive Thinker, owner of an entrepreneurial consulting engineering company, and creator of Tactical Breakthroughs, was himself diagnosed with ADHD at age 44. An entire lifetime of struggles and hardships explained by 4 little letters. This isn't an uncommon diagnosis, especially in the entrepreneurial world. In fact, people with ADHD are 500% more likely to be entrepreneurs. It is estimated that 4–5% of adults and 29% of entrepreneurs have ADHD. Research estimates that 3.3 million American adults have been diagnosed with ADHD, but 85% of people are undiagnosed.Interest-driven behavior and time blindness, are just some of the behaviors that come from an ADHD brain that André explains. But there isn't anything wrong with you. André actually says ADHD is the only diagnosis that is actually triggered by how your behavior affects those around you, not how it affects yourself.  With Tactical Breakthroughs, he's developed an ADHD Transformation Journey program that helps entrepreneurs align three key pillars affected by ADHD: Environment Control, Habits, and Personal rulesIf you’re listening to this episode and your brain is pinging all over the place and you’re thinking “Hey! That's me”! Check out some of the resources mentioned, like the personality tests (PRINT, Kolbe, or Clifton Strengths), reach out to organizations for ADHD awareness like CADDAC, and go check out the work André is doing with his podcast and new company, Tactical Breakthroughs.What’s Inside:What does ADHD do to the brain?Why ADHD isn’t a “problem”.How societal norms make things difficult for ADHD brains.How common is ADHD?How to be a successful entrepreneur with ADHD: 3 key pillars!Mentioned In This Episode:André Brisson on FacebookAndré Brisson on LinkedInObjective Engineering Inc. Tactical Breakthroughs on FacebookTactical Breakthroughs | LinkedInTactical BreakthroughsThe Impulsive Thinker Podcast on FacebookThe Impulsive Thinker Podcast | LinkedInMBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailHow much more excited would you be about your future if you had everyone working in your unique ability? Julia Waller, Unique Ability Expert,  is like a guiding light, showing people and businesses the power of Unique Ability. It's all about breaking free from the rut of just being "good" or "excellent" at something and diving deep into what truly lights you up.Finding your UA is not just coaching; it's a journey into people's souls, unlocking  natural energy and helping discover what makes people truly unique. Imagine a workplace where everyone is doing what they love most, where passion fuels productivity and creativity knows no bounds. That's the vision Julia paints, and it's a game-changer for any business.Julia explains the levels of activity we can use to classify and find our Unique Abilities: 1. Superior Skill, 2. Passion, 3. Energy, 4. Never ending improvement. We all work in a variety of activities, including incompetent, competent, excellent, and Unique Ability. I like to say I suck at it, I'm good at it, I'm great at it, or it’s my unique ability. The difference between “great” (my excellent activity) and my unique ability is my energy. Julia Waller’s number one tip…Follow your energy.Who wouldn’t want a self-managing company culture where individuals are empowered to bring their talents and energy to the table, contributing to the bigger picture in their own unique ways? Then add a self multiplying company to the picture, because that's what happens when people use their passions and energy to grow the value of a business. Julia's approach isn't just about professional success; it's about personal fulfillment too. It's about saying no to the things that drain your energy and yes to the ones that make your heart sing. It's about nurturing your true self and watching as your potential explodes into purposeful action. It's about having fun, creating results, and expanding your freedom all at the same time. That's the world Julia Waller is working to create—one where work doesn't feel like work because you're doing what you were meant to do.Be sure to check out the resources we’ve linked to learn more about Strategic Coaching and Unique Ability!What’s Inside:How can Unique Ability change the future for you, your business, and even the world?Finding the difference between excellent activities and Unique Ability.What can Unique Ability do for your business?The four levels of activity: Incompetent, Competent, Excellent, and Unique Ability.Mentioned In This Episode:Strategic CoachUnique Ability MBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailJohn MacDonald is the Publisher of the Business Examiner News Group. The mission of this British Columbia business news publisher is to facilitate local economic development, and we do that by providing business news online on three different platforms and in the production of in-person events.During our discussion, John shares trends for BC businesses to be aware of, understanding where to put their marketing dollars when it comes to digital marketing to political moves that have a big impact, like inflation due to environmental taxing. John also shares three big takeaways for B2B’s. What is your sales cycle? Consider the touch points to convert clients.Examine your return on investment over the lifetime of your client.Look at your marketing budget like you would an investment portfolio.The Business Examiner is not only news but also 50 percent events. The news group hosts 6 annual events. The intent is to provide a platform for organizations to showcase who they are to the region’s business community, the projects they’ve completed, and for participants to network with other business leaders and ultimately drive more sales, new hires and foster new connections.What’s Inside:What are the current trends for British Columbia businesses?3 tips for marketing for B2B companies.Navigating the shift from print to digital marketing.The Business Examiner News Group: digital news and events.Mentioned In This Episode:Business ExaminerMBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailHost Erik Solbakken is joined by “Frustrated Anthroplogist” Don Barden. Don is bursting with industry knowledge and insights from his recent works.Don discusses his work for the internationally acclaimed book “The Perfect Plan,” where he studied the elite producers in the global economy. Outlining their secret sauce, structures and common threads. His great science of business continues in his new book, Here Come The Girls.Don takes us on a walk through history, trends of male dominance, and the rise of women in business, leading to a takeover with women leaders in 2028. There are 3 vital needs for women, employees, and consumers alike. Be Seen, Be Heard, and Be Understood.These are the natural ways women lead. Don describes this by explaining problem solving in the workplace and how women allow employees and consumers to feel valued and empowered. Here is where it gets REALLY good. This is not just a girl thing; its just something girls do. Anyone, man or woman, can adopt these traits of leadership, and it will transform their business. Want an e-copy of “The Perfect Plan”? Reach out to Don Barden on LinkedIn. Already read it? Be on the lookout for “Here Come The Girls” and connect with Don about how he might be able to help you and your business. What’s Inside:History’s impact on the insurgence of women leaders in the coming years?Why are women owned businesses performing 3x over men owned businesses?What are the three things employees and consumers need to feel valued?Is it just a girl thing… or can everyone impact their businesses like women leaders?Mentioned In This Episode:Don Barden - The Perfect Plan | LinkedInMBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailThe news is covering AI in the media as a dangerous technology here to take your jobs. Founder and CEO of Teammate AI Evan Ryan joins me to share how AI is not only not taking your job, but making your job easier.Evan’s mission with Teammate AI is to simplify AI to automate time consuming boring tasks so that humans have more time to be creative, solve problems, and bring value to their clients. And in recent years, industries like accounting have experienced an increased loss of staff due to the Great Resignation post pandemic. AI elevates the pressure on your lowered staff levels, lightening the load of basic tasks no one really wants to do.Stay tuned to the end, where Evan walks us through a resource he has shared with our listeners to get started with AI. He has included access to common AI tools, videos, tutorials and a space to experiment and demystify AI in a safe, less intimidating way. If you take anything away, understand that AI is not a fad. You have probably used it in some form to take the burden off some tasks without even realizing it. Automation is only improving; you have the choice of how you will use it to help you.  What’s Inside:Is AI a danger to human jobs?How to use AI to automate monotonous, boring tasks.How AI can provide humans with more free time for creativity.A resource for MBA listeners from Teammate AI.Mentioned In This Episode:​​Free AI Resource (Teammate AI) MBA CPA 

Send us Fan MailMBA Chartered Professional Accountants see business owners as the most important people in the world; they see the flaws of the traditional accounting model and want to put the MBA Way to work to grow your business and your life. Welcome to The MBA Way podcast.Host, Erik Solbakken interviews Steve Wilkinghoff, CPA Business Intelligence Officer and author of Found Money. Steve shares about his career and when his vision for a focus on profit became clear. National firms didn’t see eye to eye with him on the importance of increasing profit for business owners. Now, teamed up with Erik, they have created Profit Advisory, a new service for business owners.Profit Advisory consists of three prescriptive focuses.The team analyzes your unique data.Receive a totally customized dashboard for your business focuses.Monthly check-ins with Red-Yellow-Green actionable profitability steps.Business owners make the world go round, Erik and Steve see that and want to do everything they can to increase profit through the 360 of their lives. Reach out to Erik at MBACPA.CA for more information.What’s Inside:The difference in vision between national accounting firms and the MBA way.Why business owners are so important.The three step formula of Profit Advisory.Mentioned In This Episode:​​Teammate AI MBA CPA