“We're in this position and in this space where we can do things differently than what incumbents do, because we have the opportunity to reimagine it.”—  Hanna ZaidiWith her extensive regulatory compliance expertise and forward-thinking approach, Hanna Zaidi has been a driving force behind innovation and transparency in the financial sector. Her leadership has propelled Wealthsimple to the forefront of digital finance, offering accessible and user-friendly investment solutions to empower individuals on their financial journeys. Under her guidance, Wealthsimple has played a pivotal role in advocating for modernizing payment systems and open banking frameworks in Canada, with the aim of enhancing competition and improving financial services for consumers nationwide.In this episode, Hanna and Jeff deep dive into the transformative potential of modernizing payment systems, discussing the benefits for consumers and its impact on competition within the Canadian financial landscape.Here are some highlights from the episode:The lack of competition and modernization in the Canadian financial system can lead to higher costs for consumers and limited access to better services.  Trust factors are changing; younger generations prioritize user experience, speed, and convenience in trusting financial providers. Compliance is a chance for innovation, not a hindrance. Fintechs can gain a competitive edge by mastering regulatory requirements.Enjoy!Looking for more?Discover more about Wealthsimple here.Follow them on LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50

“Another thing the best companies are doing is just moving fast or being very clear in the interview process.”—  Ilya BrotzkyWhile working in Brazil, Ilya Brotzky joined a startup accelerator that aimed to connect American invcestors with Brazilian startups. Immersed in the startup culture, he observed a pool of skilled Brazilian developers wanting to move to Canada but facing language and soft skills barriers.Upon his 2014 return to Vancouver and in the midst of his own job search, he identified a demand for developers but the lack of supply in Canada. Drawing from his Brazilian experience, he started an online school to teach developers English which quickly evolved into VanHack, a talent and recruitment platform. Now, with over 370,000 members across 100+ countries, VanHack strives to create a borderless world for tech talent.Here are some highlights from the episode:Creating defined career paths is crucial for preventing employee stagnation and offering a clear sense of direction within the organization.Offering engaging challenges sustains employee motivation and growth, while nurturing both personal and professional development.A clear mission and compelling purpose in an organization motivate candidates and foster deeper engagement in their roles.Looking for more?Discover more about VanHack here.Follow them on LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50

“The opportunity for me is like to look at the challenges as part of the fun of it, right? … How do you overcome those challenges in a way that pushes the business forward?”—  Karen DanudjajaFrustrated by the limited non-caffeinated options in cafes and a desire to move beyond commercial real estate, Karen Danudjaja harnessed her entrepreneurial prowess to launch Blume – a brand that would transform our approach to daily beverages.Nearly 6 years later, Blume has emerged as North America’s premier superfood brand, offering a range of locally-crafted products comprising 100 percent natural and organic ingredients.Here are some highlights from the episode:Instead of fixating solely on the destination, find joy in the day-to-day process, learn from experiences, and take ownership of your happiness. Every setback presents a chance to adapt, refine strategies, and enhance processes for future success.Successful entrepreneurship involves navigating challenges, uncertainties, and setbacks while maintaining the determination to keep moving forward.Looking for more?Discover more about Blume here.Follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50

“I loved being in the storm fighting fires and, and seeing the unbelievable potential that things have and, you know, trying to bring that to reality.”—  Joe ParenteauWhen it came time to upgrade his dinnerware, Joe Parenteau looked to the usual suspects—EQ3, Pottery Barn, and West Elm. However, he was disappointed to find that the shopping experience for premium home goods lacked inspiration and the simple joy he experienced at IKEA.Fast-forward to 2019 when Joe co-founded Fable, a home goods company that designs premium dinnerware products while focusing on transparency, sustainability, and ethical production.In this episode, Joe shares invaluable insights and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. He divulges his secrets to building a strong founding team, emphasizing the importance of having problem solvers onboard – individuals who can not only identify challenges but also present solutions with ease.Looking for more?Discover more about Fable here.Follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50

“This is a fluid landscape, whether it's how we manage our people or how we identify different markets, we've just understood the world is always changing.”—  Michael RyanMichael Ryan's love for pushing boundaries ignited his extraordinary journey into the world of foot care, starting as a certified pedorthist in Canada. For over 14 years, he honed his expertise within outpatient settings, from private practices to prestigious university health centers. Driven by an unwavering desire to make a difference and improve the field, Michael explored new horizons that could revolutionize foot care approaches. Now, at Kintec: Footwear + Orthotics, Michael leads the charge in embracing innovative technologies to provide personalized solutions and exceptional customer service.Here are some highlights from the episode:The significance of maintaining physical health to achieve personal and professional success.The power of technology in elevating customer experiences and fostering brand loyalty.Exploring how incremental actions can pave the way for transformative outcomes.Looking for more?Discover more about Kintec: Footwear + Orthotics here.Follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50

“Of course make your debt reduction a priority, but over here you also need to start learning to love yourself enough to put money aside for your future. And that is an act of self-love.”—  Lesley-Anne ScorgieLesley-Anne Scorgie’s passion for personal finance ignited at a young age. At just ten years old, she took a hundred-dollar birthday gift from her grandparents and made her first investment by purchasing a Canada Savings Bond. As Lesley-Anne’s financial literacy grew, so did her ambition. By the age of fourteen, she had already begun investing in mutual funds, setting her on a path to becoming a millionaire by the age of twenty-five.In this episode, Lesley-Anne offers valuable advice on shifting your mindset about money, emphasizing the importance of establishing consistent money habits to ensure long-term financial security and success.Looking for more?Discover more about MeVest here.Follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50

“Brand trust is gonna be critical and it's always been critical, but in the age of AI, brand trust is gonna be critical.”—  Darby SiebenIn the late 1990s, Darby Sieben embarked on his journey as an internet early adopter, eventually founding his own digital marketing company. Over the years, he has earned a reputation as a respected industry leader, driving impactful change and spearheading product strategies.Darby's remarkable ability to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of product development is evident through his consistent innovation and customer-centric approach. He thrives on tackling complex challenges and seizing emerging opportunities.Here are some highlights from the episode:How to leverage dedicated landing pages to enhance ad campaigns and achieve a higher ROIInsightful predictions on the profound impact AI will have on organizationsValuable tips on successful remote leadership in today's work environmentEnjoy!Looking for more?Discover more about Unbounce here.Follow them on LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50

“Sport is a tool for social change that you can make [a] meaningful impact in communities, you can influence consumers.”—  Russell ReimerHaving produced for NBC during the 2000 and 2002 Olympics, Russell Reimer recognized the power of storytelling in captivating audiences and generating interest in the games. This insight inspired him to establish Manifesto Sport Management, where he continues to tell the stories of iconic athletes, including Toronto Maple Leafs star Mitch Marner, hockey legend Mark Messier, and Olympians Mark McMorris and Hayley Wickenheiser. A prominent figure in Canada’s sports scene, Russell has worked with world leaders developing successful programs like Sport for Life, and spearheading the community movement, All Sport One Day, which provides free sport discovery opportunities for children.Here are some of the highlights from the episode:Storytelling is incredibly powerful and the ability to craft compelling narratives and communicate effectively is essential in various areas of life.In a competitive environment, accepting rejection as a step toward success is crucial.Delivering candid feedback is key in guiding individuals toward improvement.Enjoy!Looking for more?Discover more about Russell Reimer here and follow him on LinkedIn.Discover more about Manifesto Sport Management here.Follow them on LinkedIn, YouTube, Twitter, and Instagram.Discover more about All Sport One Day here.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50A message from our Sponsor:At Rakuten Kobo, we’re here to make your reading life better—because we love reading just as much as you do. Explore Kobo’s line-up of eReaders packed with innovative features that are designed for both the brand-new digital reader and the most experienced.Build your library and choose from the millions of eBooks and audiobooks you can access instantly through your Kobo device or our free Kobo app.Ready to elevate your reading experience? Shop using your Neo Card™ for exclusive offers.

“So there's been, I think this huge change in how Canadians sort of want and need to bank.”—  Ian BurnsEstablished in 1938, Servus Credit Union is a member-owned, community-based financial institution. With an impressive network of over 100 branches and a staggering 380,000 owners, Servus Credit Union proudly holds the title of being the largest credit union in Alberta.Leading the charge at Servus Credit Union is Ian Burns, a trailblazer in finance, entrepreneurship, and relationship management. Ian's extensive experience and innovative mindset have made him a true pioneer who fearlessly challenges industry norms in the world of business and finance.Here are some of the highlights from the episode:Credit unions play a crucial role in fostering trust, collaboration, and financial empowerment within local communities.Open banking and the benefits, challenges, and transformative opportunities it brings to the Canadian financial landscape.The value of diverse perspectives and embracing different ways of thinkingEnjoy!Looking for more?Discover more about Servus Credit Union here.Follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50

“I don't really view my own successes as my own. If I had one superpower, it's about hiring people that are smarter than me and let 'em fly, you know? Giving them the tools and the right environment for them to win because that's what everybody wants, ultimately.”—  Michele GuimondAs an avid backcountry skier, downhill mountain biker, and trail runner, it only makes sense that Michele Guimond found her way to working at MEC. After spending a little over a decade travelling abroad, Michele graduated from Emily Carr University of Art + Design and pursued a career in retail marketing. Over the next few years, she led marketing at top-tier retail brands during periods of rapid growth. Ultimately leading her to MEC, where she is responsible for sharing the MEC brand with the world.In this episode, Michele shares her experiences building community brands and strategies for effective leadership.Looking for more?Discover more about MEC here.Follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50

“The other thing I would say too is it's important to celebrate decisions where you decided not to do something, that was maybe a great idea. So products you thought about launching that you decided not to launch and in hindsight that was a great decision.”—  Peter FurnishPeter Furnish has had a long and exciting career, full of interesting experiences that have helped him learn valuable lessons. His journey has taken him to visit Walt Disney's home in California, where he gained insights into the creative genius behind the Disney brand. He also had the opportunity to witness Sir Richard Branson's daring promotional stunts for Virgin Mobile, which taught him the importance of taking risks to create a buzz.During his career, Furnish has worked with some of the most iconic brands, including The Walt Disney Company, Labatt Breweries, Cineplex, Virgin Mobile, and Starbucks. Each of these experiences has provided him with valuable lessons that have helped him build a successful career.Here are some of the highlights from the episode:Failure is a valuable teacher — always use its lessons to improveBeing flexible and unlearning what you know are essential when transitioning between companies of different categories and growth stagesCreativity is key to making an impactThe differences between founder-led and founder-inspired businessesBuild a network and learn from those around youEnjoy!Looking for more?Discover more about Starbucks here.Follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.Discover more about Cineplex here.Follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50

“So I think different employee engagement, consumer engagement, programs like that, there's value in that [it] makes people feel good and it also helps the planet.” —  David LubaThe UN predicts that in order to achieve our climate goals by 2050, more than 8.1 trillion dollars must be invested in nature-based solutions. However, current projections indicate that only about 4 trillion dollars will be invested, leaving a massive funding gap that must be filled. Failing to close this gap could have severe consequences such as food insecurity, natural disasters, and potential conflicts.To address this issue, we should be considering nature-based solutions, such as tree planting, coral reef restoration, and kelp rebuilding which have more significant impacts beyond just carbon sequestration. However, monitoring and measuring these impacts is challenging. That’s where veritree comes in.Founded in 2019, veritree is a platform that uses blockchain technology to measure and verify the productivity of nature-based investments. Currently, veritree is collaborating with over 300 businesses to restore the planet in a verified, measurable, and impactful way.Looking for more?Discover more about veritree here.Follow them on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50

“And I think so much of my job is to be an advocate for winter sports, for winter, for snow business, and to encourage people in Alberta and elsewhere to get outside and explore this beautiful continent we have.”—  Kendra ScurfieldGrowing up at Sunshine Village Ski & Snowboard Resort was somewhat of a fairytale for Kendra Scurfield. Waking up in a winter wonderland to the excitement of skiers and snowboarders, drinking all of the hot chocolate she could possibly drink, and commuting to work with her dad via gondola — it was a childhood unlike any other.Now, as an adult, Kendra has returned to her fairytale and works for the family-owned business, Sunshine Village, where she advocates for winter sports and encourages people worldwide to get outside and explore.In this episode of Behind The Brand, Kendra discusses the importance of family-owned businesses in building community and their impact on our economy and society. She shares insights on navigating the complexities of balancing profitability, customer experience, and inclusivity.Looking for more?Discover more about Sunshine Village Ski & Snowboard Resort here.Follow them on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50

“That naivety, as you say, is a bit of a superpower because if you don't know the way that something is typically done and you're just left to figure it out, then there's so much more creativity that happens with it.”—  Kristen GaleKristen Gale was 24 when she was fired, for the second time. However, instead of dwelling on the setback, she took a bold step to start her own venture. She quickly developed a business plan, secured a location and loan, and opened the first TEN SPOT location in just a few months. Almost 20 years later, Kristen has grown THE TEN SPOT and created a remarkable company culture that is guided by the values that she lives every day.This week, Kristen shares the story behind her success, including how she created a successful franchise model and scaled it across North America, while maintaining a consistent brand and exemplary company culture.  Looking for more?Discover more about THE TEN SPOT here.Follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50A message from our Sponsor: Do you wear glasses, contact lenses, or sunglasses? Of course you do! So listen up: our friends at CLEARLY have a special offer just for you. Get 40% OFF CUSTOM PRESCRIPTION EYEGLASS LENSES, Use code NEO40 at checkout. More of a contacts kinda person? How about $20 off all contact lens orders over $119. Clearly carries YOUR GO-TO BRAND, and you can save $20 when you spend a min of $119 with code NEO20. We can’t wait to SEE what you save!

“Entrepreneurism took off, but [also] really reframed how people thought about being an entrepreneur and having a side business or a side hustle.”—  Ashley GrafWith an impressive marketing career spanning various industries including sports and entertainment, airline, and now tech, Ashley Graf brings a wealth of experience to the table. In her role as Head of North America Marketing at Squarespace, Ashley draws on her expertise to highlight Squarespace's distinctive value proposition, as aptly phrased by Adam Driver in their Super Bowl commercial, as the "website that builds websites."In this episode, Ashley shares insights on how Squarespace has differentiated itself in a crowded market and continues to grow its customer base, as well as tips to staying ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving marketing landscape.Looking for more?Discover more about Squarespace here.Follow them on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50

“I realize that momentum is all based on direction. So you choose the way your direction and momentum will go.”— Jake KarlsWith his unique ability to create excitement and tell compelling stories, Jake Karls is a driving force behind Mid-Day Squares’ growth. Right from the beginning, Jake and his co-founders made a decision to be transparent and vulnerable, showing the good, bad, and ugly of their entrepreneurial journey.This week, Jake shares the honest truth about entrepreneurship and the road to building Mid-Day Squares including the challenges he faced along the way, and the lessons he learned. This is a must-listen episode for anyone looking to start their entrepreneurial journey or take their existing business to the next level.Looking for more?Discover more about Mid-Day Squares here.Follow them on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50

“Digital transformation and climate and sustainability. These are the two biggest thrusts that are going to impact businesses all over the world and certainly in Canada.”—  Kathleen PolsinelloHead of BCG’s Toronto office and a key member of its Consumer practice, Kathleen Polsinello is a leading expert in consumer behaviour and retail strategy. With clients in Canada, the UK, and the US, she has successfully guided retail teams through major business transformations. Along with her work at BCG, Kathleen is a strong supporter of DE&I and women's progress in the corporate arena.This week on Behind the Brand, Kathleen shares her predictions on the future of retail, climate and sustainability, and more in 2023. Looking for more?Discover more about Boston Consulting Group here.Follow them on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50A message from our Sponsor:At Rakuten Kobo, we’re here to make your reading life better—because we love reading just as much as you do. Explore Kobo’s line-up of eReaders packed with innovative features that are designed for both the brand-new digital reader and the most experienced.Build your library and choose from the millions of eBooks and audiobooks you can access instantly through your Kobo device or our free Kobo app.Ready to elevate your reading experience? Shop using your Neo Card™ for exclusive offers.

“Multi-brand retail should be in service to obviously, the customers, but [also] to the brands that they carry.”—  P.J. WorsfoldP.J. Worsfold is the driving force behind some of Canada’s most successful online shoe retailers. He’s a true trailblazer in digital media and e-commerce, and in 2020, he took on an even bigger challenge by taking on the role of Director of Ecommerce at JD Sports. Known for his innovative approach to e-commerce, he’s an expert in combining technology and business strategy to drive sales.This week on Behind the Brand, P.J. and Jeff discuss how personalization enables retailers to build better customer relationships.Looking for more?Discover more about JD Sports Canada here.Follow them on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50A message from our Sponsor:Bring your stories to life with Squarespace, the easiest way to create an exceptional website, blog, portfolio, or online store. Try Squarespace free for 14 days and receive 20% off your first purchase with code NEO2023.

“What I found in both is that you’ll be surprised who comes up with the next brilliant idea in the company. And letting that person [come] forward and allowing a little bit of a level playing field for everyone to be a part of that, makes a big difference.”—  Mike GettisMike Gettis is no stranger to building successful direct-to-consumer brands. In 2015, Mike co-founded Canadian mattress brand Endy, and over the next two years, grew it into a multi-million dollar brand. Seeing another opportunity to deliver top quality products at a fraction of the price, Mike and his partner Noelle started Kilne. This week on Behind the Brand, Mike and Jeff talk about the importance of feedback and their experiences building successful consumer brands from scratch.Looking for more?Discover more about Kilne here.Follow them on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.You can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50A message from our Sponsor:The Frosty Feast is back at Mary Brown’s! Get 10 Pieces of Chicken, Taters, Gravy, Salad and 4 NEW oven-fresh Biscuits for just $37.99 plus tax. Mary Brown’s Chicken. Crave Delicious. Crave Canadian.

“Loyalty is that perfect mix of art and science because it has to do with customer behavior, incentivizing people to behave in a different way, while also the extremely analytical component of, you know, we can offer this or we can offer that.”— Oren EizenmanAn expert on designing, optimizing, and building on top of loyalty programs, Oren Eizenman knows what it takes to foster meaningful customer loyalty. Leading the Loyalty Service Line at McKinsey, he works with clients across industries and around the world on their growth and marketing strategies. This week on Behind the Brand, Oren and Jeff Oren talk about the evolution of loyalty in Canada — where it has been and where it’s going.Looking for more?Discover more about McKinsey & Company here.Follow them on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.Read more from Oren here:Winning in loyalty | McKinseyNext in loyalty: Eight levers to turn customers into fans | McKinseyConsumer organization and operating models for the next normal | McKinseyYou can learn more about Neo Financial here.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.Interested in joining Neo? Unlock a special offer for podcast listeners here: join.neo.cc/podcast50A message from our Sponsor:Choice Hotels provides business and leisure travelers with a range of high-quality lodging options, wherever you go, Choice Hotels is there. Combined with our award-winning Choice Privileges® loyalty program, members benefit from everyday rewards to exceptional experiences.Get cash back on your next stay as a Neo cardholder.