Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted

In this episode of Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted, host Matt Calnan sits down with Robert Kulhawy, a serial entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience. Robert shares his journey from humble beginnings to founding successful companies like Nuterra, a leader in groundwater remediation, and Comrax Corporation, a global IT and digital solutions provider.
Robert dives into his unique philosophy of the 5Fs of life: Faith, Family, Fitness, Friends, and Finances. These guiding principles have not only shaped his personal and professional life but have also inspired countless entrepreneurs and leaders. He also shares the invaluable lessons he learned from his father, stories about navigating challenges in various industries, and his commitment to environmental sustainability.
This episode covers topics like:
Robert's 5Fs and how they influence his life and businesses
How a childhood lesson on entrepreneurship led to a lifelong passion for building companies
His environmental initiatives and practical solutions for sustainability
Advice for young entrepreneurs on cash flow, diversification, and integrity
Tune in to hear Robert's wisdom on blending life’s priorities, achieving entrepreneurial success, and leaving the world a better place than you found it.
Guest Information: Robert Kulhawy is a Canadian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and environmentalist with over two decades of experience in founding and growing successful companies.
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Learn more and apply at https://beyondwealthpodcast.ca/guest

In this episode of Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted, Matt Calnan sits down with Ali Asghari, a seasoned entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in leadership, finance, and innovation. Ali shares his fascinating journey, starting from Iran and moving through Azerbaijan, where he managed a diverse portfolio of industries, to Canada, where he fully embraced entrepreneurship.
Ali discusses his experiences in co-founding companies, his successful pitch on Dragon's Den, and his latest venture: developing a groundbreaking AI-powered platform to transform manual commercial equipment into autonomous robots. This innovation aims to address labor shortages in industries like golf course maintenance by retrofitting existing machines for autonomous operation.
Ali's story is one of constant reinvention, adaptability, and seizing opportunities in new and unfamiliar territories. Whether it's navigating new cultures, building trust in foreign markets, or tackling the challenges of entrepreneurship, Ali’s insights are invaluable for anyone on a similar path.
Key Takeaways:
How Ali transitioned from a career in finance to entrepreneurship in Canada
The challenges and rewards of moving between multiple countries and industries
The future of automation in commercial industries and the role of AI in solving labor shortages
A behind-the-scenes look at Ali’s Dragon's Den experience and his pivot from energy drinks to autonomous robotics
------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Learn more and apply at https://beyondwealthpodcast.ca/guest

In this episode of Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted, host Matt Calnan speaks with Mitch Lawson, a leader in disability support and employment inclusion. Mitch brings over 11 years of experience in supporting individuals with disabilities, and he currently heads Catalyst, a program under the Southern Alberta Community Living Association (SACLA). Catalyst focuses on creating inclusive employment opportunities by bridging the gap between people with disabilities and businesses.
Mitch shares how disability inclusion isn't just about charity—it's smart business. He talks about how businesses can tap into a vast, underserved market of people with disabilities and their families. Listeners will learn about the economic benefits of hiring inclusively, success stories from local businesses, and how disability inclusion can lead to better employee retention and customer loyalty.
Key Takeaways:
How Catalyst helps businesses build inclusive workforces.
Economic opportunities for businesses engaging with the disability community.
Real-world success stories of inclusive hiring and its business benefits.
Insights into the upcoming Onboard Conference and how businesses can participate.
Guest Bio:Mitch Lawson is the Program Director of Catalyst, a division of the Southern Alberta Community Living Association (SACLA). Mitch has dedicated over a decade to helping people with disabilities find meaningful employment, and he's passionate about transforming how businesses view inclusion. Mitch also brings his background in business development to advocate for disability inclusion as a strategic business advantage.
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Learn more and apply at https://beyondwealthpodcast.ca/guest

In this episode of Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted, host Matt Calnan speaks with Darvin Zurfluh, the founder and CEO of Pinnacle Wealth Brokers. Darvin is a trailblazer in the alternative investment space, with over 20 years of experience in investments and real estate. Pinnacle Wealth Brokers, one of Canada's leading exempt market dealers, helps investors access private companies seeking capital for growth.
Darvin shares insights into what makes exempt market dealers different from traditional financial advisors, how alternative assets—such as private companies and real estate—can provide unique opportunities for diversification, and why they should be considered by both seasoned and novice investors. He also discusses the history and challenges of founding Pinnacle, the due diligence process for investment offerings, and the importance of understanding investment products.
If you're curious about how to navigate alternative investments and want to explore private market opportunities, this episode provides invaluable insights from one of Canada's foremost experts.
Guest Info:Darvin Zurfluh is the founder and CEO of Pinnacle Wealth Brokers. He holds a CFP designation and is a Fellow of the Canadian Securities Institute. Darvin is passionate about helping Canadians access alternative investments and has built Pinnacle into a leader in the exempt market industry.
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Learn more and apply at https://beyondwealthpodcast.ca/guest

In this insightful episode, Matt Calnan sits down with Leanne Burrows, a communications and change management expert with over 15 years of experience in the engineering and oil & gas sectors. Leanne shares her journey from working in construction to pursuing a master’s degree in organizational psychology, all while balancing family life and a busy career.
Leanne explains how her role at Sky Eye has evolved over the years, especially as she works closely with HR to enhance internal communications and implement competency-based management systems. She also touches on the importance of clear expectations and accountability in the workplace, and how companies can better integrate communications with HR to create a strong, engaged workforce.
Listeners will gain valuable insights on change management, the role of emotional intelligence in business success, and how to foster a positive organizational culture.
Guest Information:Leanne Burrows is an expert in communication and change management, currently pursuing a master's degree in organizational psychology. She holds certifications in DISC, ProSci Change Management, and Lean Green Belt.
------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Learn more and apply at https://beyondwealthpodcast.ca/guest

In this episode of Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted, Matt Calnan sits down with Sean Fero, the Head of Marketing at Trail Appliances, to discuss the challenges and opportunities of rebranding a company with 50 years of history. With over 25 years of experience working for major brands like Shell, Air Miles, and Visa, Sean shares insights on how he’s transforming Trail Appliances into a brand-focused entity that resonates with today’s consumers.
Sean delves into his personal journey, starting in Calgary and moving across industries, from oil and gas to customer loyalty programs and retail. He highlights the pivotal moments in his career, including working with Sidney Crosby as a brand ambassador and navigating the challenges of managing multimillion-dollar marketing budgets and large teams.
Discover how Sean is giving Trail Appliances a "soul" by focusing on customer service, local engagement, and building loyalty in a competitive market. Plus, he discusses the importance of timely product delivery, local stocking, and how these small differentiators can turn customers into lifelong supporters.
Tune in to hear Sean's experiences, from working at massive global corporations to leading a family-owned business through its 50th year.
Guest Information:Sean Fero is the Head of Marketing at Trail Appliances. He brings over 25 years of experience in branding, business strategy, and leadership. 
------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Learn more and apply at https://beyondwealthpodcast.ca/guest

In this episode of "Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted," Matt Calnan chats with Zack Anderson, a seasoned leader in experiential learning and program management. Zack currently serves as an executive at the Telus Spark Science Centre and shares his insights on connecting people with science in engaging and meaningful ways.
Zack talks about the unique approach of the Telus Spark Science Centre, where science is not just taught but experienced. From inquiry-based learning to hands-on exhibits like the bed of nails, Zack explains how the Centre caters to visitors of all ages, sparking curiosity and fostering a love for science. He also discusses the importance of making science accessible and exciting for everyone, from young children to adults, through both permanent and rotating exhibits.
Additionally, Zack delves into the challenges of designing exhibits that appeal to diverse audiences, including teens and adults, and highlights the Centre's efforts in updating galleries and creating new programs to ensure fresh and engaging experiences for visitors. He shares the innovative partnerships they've developed with various organizations, like Alberta Health Services, to bring unique educational programs to the Centre.
Don't miss this fascinating conversation about the intersection of education, entertainment, and community engagement at the Telus Spark Science Centre!
Guest InformationZack Anderson is the Executive Director at the Telus Spark Science Centre and has over a decade of experience in experiential learning and program management. 
------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest! Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Learn more and apply at https://beyondwealthpodcast.ca/guest
 

In this insightful episode, we sit down with Hasmik Asmaryan, the Director of Business Employment and Training Services at the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS). Hasmik shares her incredible journey from arriving in Canada as a skilled immigrant to becoming a passionate advocate for newcomers in the Canadian labor market. We discuss the vital role CCIS plays in helping newcomers transition into the workforce, the unique challenges faced by immigrants and refugees, and the innovative programs designed to support their successful integration into Canadian society.
Key Takeaways:
Hasmik’s Background: From a geoscientist to a leader in social work, Hasmik’s journey highlights the interdisciplinary nature of her work at CCIS.
CCIS Overview: The Calgary Catholic Immigration Society’s mission to help newcomers settle, integrate, and succeed in Southern Alberta.
Challenges for Newcomers: Understanding the financial, social, and linguistic barriers faced by immigrants and refugees as they seek meaningful employment in Canada.
The Importance of Collaboration: How CCIS works with government bodies, employers, and other organizations to create opportunities for newcomers.
Hasmik’s Passion: Her dedication to helping newcomers succeed in Canada and how this work fulfills her professional purpose.
Guest Bio: Hasmik Asmaryan is the Director of Business Employment and Training Services at the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS). With a strong background in geoscience and sustainability, Hasmik has devoted over a decade to supporting newcomers in their journey to becoming contributing members of Canadian society.
 
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Be Our Next Guest!
Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Learn more and apply at https://beyondwealthpodcast.ca/guest

In this episode of Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted, host Matt Calnan welcomes Shannon Hewlko, the Vice President, Head of Strategy, and Creative Director at Roadmap Agency. Shannon brings over a decade of experience in brand and business growth strategies. They dive deep into the intricacies of building a business brand, discussing the importance of brand strategy, audience personas, and the role of consistent branding in business growth.
Shannon shares her journey from working in the advertising world to founding her own branding agency and eventually becoming a key player at Roadmap. She offers valuable insights into how businesses, especially those with growth aspirations, can tackle brand problems, align their marketing tactics with business goals, and effectively utilize brand workshops to create compelling brand identities.
Whether you’re a startup looking to establish a strong brand or an established business aiming to refine your branding, Shannon’s expertise and practical advice will provide you with actionable steps to elevate your business brand.
Key Takeaways:
The critical role of brand strategy in business growth.
How to conduct audience persona research and why it's essential.
The importance of consistency in branding across all touchpoints.
The value of brand workshops in defining a company’s core values and brand identity.
Tips for small businesses on building a brand with limited resources.
About the Guest: Shannon Hewlko is the Vice President, Head of Strategy, and Creative Director at Roadmap Agency. With a background in graphic design and advertising, Shannon specializes in helping businesses grow through strategic branding and marketing. She’s passionate about problem-solving and has a keen interest in seeing her clients succeed.
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------- Be Our Next Guest!
Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Learn more and apply at https://beyondwealthpodcast.ca/guest

In this episode of Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted, Matt Calnan sits down with Greg Kautz, a seasoned finance and technology executive with over 40 years of experience, primarily in the energy industry. Greg, now the CEO and co-founder of Black Owl Systems, shares his journey of transitioning from a career in ERP systems, finance, and strategic planning to founding a fintech startup specializing in complex accounting software.
Greg delves into the challenges of starting a business during the COVID-19 pandemic, the intricacies of lease accounting, and how Black Owl Systems is making waves in the global market. He also opens up about the unique experience of working alongside his son, Derek, and the honest, fresh perspective it brings to their business.
Whether you're interested in fintech, entrepreneurship, or the dynamics of family-run businesses, this episode is packed with valuable insights and stories from Greg's extensive career. Tune in to hear about the growth of Black Owl Systems, their international expansion plans, and Greg’s advice for anyone looking to break into the fintech space.
Guest:Greg Kautz is the CEO and co-founder of Black Owl Systems, a fintech company specializing in complex accounting software. With a strong background in ERP systems, finance, and strategic planning, Greg brings decades of expertise to his role. He is passionate about innovation in the accounting sector and enjoys the unique opportunity of working with his son.
 
----------------------------------------------------------
Be Our Next Guest!
Interested in sharing your success story with a wide audience of local leaders and influencers? "Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted" is looking for guests like you—successful, insightful, and ready to tell the world how you've made your mark. Learn more and apply at https://beyondwealthpodcast.ca/guest