Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted

In this episode of "Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted," host Matt Calnan sits down with Darren Stewart, a serial entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in business management, consulting, and investments. Darren has successfully built, invested in, and sold multiple businesses across various industries, including technology, manufacturing, and public relations.
Darren shares his journey from the structured world of corporate finance to the unpredictable and exhilarating realm of entrepreneurship. He discusses the highs and lows of his career, the critical lessons he's learned from failures, and his approach to balancing risk and reward in his ventures. Darren also emphasizes the importance of hiring the right people, understanding your customers, and staying true to your values.
Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, Darren's insights on managing success and failure, building strong partnerships, and navigating the complexities of business will inspire and inform your entrepreneurial journey.
Key Takeaways:
The importance of staying hands-off to scale a business successfully.
How to balance risk and reward in high-risk investments.
Managing the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.
The significance of knowing your numbers and metrics.
Guest Bio: Darren Stewart is a seasoned entrepreneur with a diverse portfolio of successful ventures, including Rolling Room Corp, Endeavor Productions, Investor AI, Team Q Canada, and Chaos Point Advisory. With a background in corporate finance, Darren has a unique perspective on the intersection of finance and entrepreneurship. He is passionate about helping others achieve their entrepreneurial dreams and is known for his hands-off approach to managing businesses.
 
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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," Matt Calnan sits down with Ben Reeves, a key figure in the finance industry and the driving force behind Viewpoint Investment Partners. Ben delves into how his firm is democratizing sophisticated, institutional-grade investment strategies typically reserved for the ultra-wealthy, making them accessible to everyone. From navigating the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis to leveraging AI and data science for risk management, Ben shares invaluable insights into modern portfolio management. He also breaks down the essentials of ETFs and segregated funds, offering a clear understanding of these critical investment tools.
Key Takeaways:
The origins of Viewpoint Investment Partners and its mission to provide institutional-grade portfolio management to a broader audience.
The benefits of ETFs and segregated funds, and why they are often a better option compared to traditional mutual funds.
How AI and data science are revolutionizing risk management in investment portfolios.
The importance of diversification and a globally diversified portfolio in today's volatile markets.
Guest Information: Ben Reeves is an executive at Viewpoint Investment Partners, leading the integration of AI and data science into investment strategies. He is also a founding director and chair of the Board at the YYC Data 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 sits down with Andre Arrata, VP of Client Success at Ventrek, to delve into the intricacies of business growth and leadership. With over 25 years of experience across Canada and the Middle East, Andre brings a wealth of knowledge in driving business development and operational excellence. The conversation covers topics such as the importance of clarity in roles and responsibilities within companies, the impact of strategic planning, and how cultural differences influence business strategy. Andre also shares insights from his successful ventures, including a notable achievement in Dubai where his team grew a company from zero to $140 million in just five years. For entrepreneurs looking to scale, Andre emphasizes the importance of understanding your value proposition and surrounding yourself with a trustworthy team.
Guest Bio: Andre Arrata is the Vice President of Client Success at Ventrek. With a diverse background in both Canada and the Middle East, Andre has been instrumental in guiding businesses towards substantial growth. He is passionate about helping companies define their roles and responsibilities to achieve greater success. Connect with Andre on LinkedIn or visit the Ventrek website to learn more.
 
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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 sits down with Laura Istead, Executive Director of 2 Wheel View, a youth development nonprofit. Laura shares her journey and the impactful work her organization does to help young people build life, leadership, and employability skills through bicycle mechanics.
Key Points Discussed:
Laura's Background and Passion: Laura's journey from a caring child to a dedicated community leader.
2 Wheel View's Mission: How 2 Wheel View uses bicycles to empower youth, build their confidence, and develop essential life skills.
Programs and Impact: Detailed insight into the youth programs, including the GAP employability program and Earn-a-Bike initiative.
Challenges in the Nonprofit Sector: The importance of mental health support for nonprofit employees and the social sector's contribution to GDP.
Social Sector Social: Laura's new project aimed at connecting nonprofit professionals for mutual support and collaboration.
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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

Welcome back to "Beyond Wealth: Success Unscripted with Matt Calnan." In this episode, Matt sits down with Peter Pilarski, a seasoned strategist with 20 years of experience in digital marketing, communications, and government relations. Peter, who runs CIPR Communications with his wife, shares his journey into AI and its impact on the business landscape. He discusses his latest venture, the Tourism AI Network, and how AI is reshaping the tourism industry.
Peter explains the rapid advancements in AI, citing a quote from Sam Altman of OpenAI about the future of marketing and AI's role in it. He delves into the practical applications of AI in creating content, streamlining processes, and the importance of staying ahead in the evolving marketing field. Matt and Peter also discuss the challenges and opportunities for businesses in adopting AI, highlighting the need for AI literacy and a structured approach to AI integration.
Join us for an insightful conversation on the future of AI in business and how organizations can harness its power to drive innovation and efficiency.
Guest Bio: Peter Pilarski is a versatile strategist with two decades of experience in digital marketing, communications, and government relations. He co-runs CIPR Communications and recently launched the Tourism AI Network to help the tourism industry leverage AI. Peter is passionate about demystifying AI and enabling businesses to navigate the tech landscape with confidence.
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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, Matt Calnan sits down with Brye Ponto, an accomplished hospitality professional and Director of Food and Beverage at the Dorian Hotel in Calgary. Brye shares her journey from starting as a server at Earls to leading high-end dining experiences at one of Calgary's premier boutique hotels.
Brye discusses her early passion for hospitality, the transition from casual to fine dining, and her love for training and developing her team. She also reflects on the challenges and rewards of balancing a demanding career with family life, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Brye provides insights into the unique aspects of the Dorian Hotel, including its dual property structure catering to both leisure and business travelers and the emphasis on creating memorable guest experiences.
Listeners will learn about Brye's approach to integrating local craft beers into the hotel's offerings, her passion for wine and spirits, and how her background in English literature plays a role in her current position. Whether you're a hospitality professional or simply enjoy learning about the industry, this episode offers valuable lessons on leadership, perseverance, and the importance of passion in achieving success.
Guest Bio: Brye Ponto is the Director of Food and Beverage at the Dorian Hotel in Calgary. With a background in hospitality spanning over 16 years, she has extensive experience in event planning, customer service, social media, and brand development. Brye holds a BA in English Language and Literature from the University of Alberta.
 
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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 with Matt Calnan, we sit down with Sarah Rimbey, the Director of Western Policy at Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters. Sarah shares her journey from her early interest in politics at the University of Florida to her current role advocating for economic development and international relations. We dive into her experiences working with the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers, her time in Ottawa with the Conservative Party, and her insights on the challenges and opportunities facing the manufacturing sector in Canada.
Join us as Sarah discusses:
Her career trajectory and the importance of networking.
The differences between U.S. and Canadian politics.
Key issues in the manufacturing industry, including labor shortages and the impact of upcoming U.S. elections on trade tariffs.
The role of AI and automation in the future of manufacturing.
Guest Bio: Sarah Rimbey is the Director of Western Policy at Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters. With a strong background in political economy and economic development, she has worked with the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers and has extensive experience in both the energy sector and political advocacy.
 
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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 sits down with Betty-Anne Smith, a visionary leader renowned for her ability to cultivate engaged, productive teams and develop innovative strategies to enhance organizational efficiency. Betty-Anne shares her journey from the private sector to her current role in the public sector, where she serves as the Manager for the Center of Well-Being at the University of Calgary's Brooklyn School of Education. She discusses the challenges and rewards of transitioning between industries, the importance of empathy in leadership, and how to lead diverse teams effectively.
Join us as Betty-Anne offers valuable insights into leadership, team-building, and the future of education. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or aspiring to take on a leadership role, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories.
 
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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," Matt Calnan interviews Kim Sankey, Executive Director of Health Operations for Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada. Kim shares her inspiring journey from a physiotherapist to a leader in vision rehabilitation, highlighting the importance and impact of this specialized field.
Key Takeaways:
Kim's role and background in vision rehabilitation
The scope and significance of vision rehabilitation services
The use of advanced technology, including AI and VR, in aiding individuals with vision loss
Challenges in providing services in remote areas and the importance of culturally sensitive care
Kim's passion for non-profit work and the value of aligning professional efforts with personal values
About the Guest: Kim Sankey is a licensed physiotherapist and co-host of the Inspired Souls Podcast. Currently, she serves as the Executive Director of Health Operations for Vision Loss Rehabilitation Canada. With over 20 years of experience in clinical practice and management, Kim brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to the field of vision rehabilitation.
 
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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 sits down with Tom McCaffery, CEO and Managing Director of Two River Advisory, to discuss his diverse career spanning business strategy, leadership, art, and writing. Tom shares insights into his journey from the corporate world to government roles and his return to private enterprise. He also delves into his passion for abstract art and his upcoming book on managing values in complex organizations.
Guest Information: Tom McCaffery is the CEO and Managing Director of Two River Advisory. With experience in manufacturing, supply chain, aerospace, government, and academia, Tom brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. He is also an accomplished artist and author, with a new book on the way.
Key Points:
Tom's role as CEO of Two River Advisory and his experience in various sectors.
His journey as an artist and upcoming exhibition.
Insights into his new book on managing values in organizations.
The unique investment strategy of Two River Advisory.
Tom's transition from private industry to government roles and back.
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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