Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Small Business | Big Insights
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contracts, Clients, and Costly Risks: The Legal Advice Every Small Business Owner Needs to Hear with Margot Pomerleau from MBC Law | 17 Nov 2025 | 00:45:40 | |
In this episode of The Small Business Big Insights Podcast, Eric sits down with litigation lawyer Margot Pomerleau to explore the legal risks that small and medium business owners often overlook. Margot shares why documenting deals matters more than most entrepreneurs think, how failing to get proper advice early can cost you significantly more later, and the most common mistakes she sees in contracts, hiring, firing, and business partnerships. She breaks down what actually happens when a lawsuit begins, how evidence is collected, and why putting pen to paper can be the difference between winning and losing a case. Margot also explains how business owners can avoid unnecessary legal trouble by setting realistic goals, avoiding unplanned expansions, and resisting the temptation to dabble in industries they do not fully understand. From mismanaged projects to bad investment advice, she walks through real situations that lead clients to her door and shares practical insight on how to avoid similar problems. This candid conversation will give business owners a clearer view of their legal rights and responsibilities and provide valuable tools to protect their companies before issues arise. Timestamps Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) The conversations in this podcast, including those with Margot Pomerleau, are for informational and entertainment purposes only. Nothing discussed should be taken as legal advice. If you have questions about your specific situation, you should consult with a qualified lawyer or other appropriate professional. The hosts and guests make no guarantees about the accuracy or completeness of any information shared. | |||
| Communication Secrets from a Leadership Coach with Barry McLoughlin from TLC Transformational Leadership | 15 Oct 2025 | 00:51:52 | |
In this episode of Small Business Big Insights, Eric Saumure welcomes Barry McLoughlin, leadership and communications consultant, author, and educator. Barry takes us inside his unique journey from stand-up comedy and television satire to coaching leaders across Canada and the U.S. He explains why communication is not a “nice-to-have” but an essential skill that defines your brand, builds trust, and fuels growth. With decades of experience helping executives, politicians, and business owners, Barry shares how storytelling, body language, and tone shape perception far more than words alone. The conversation dives into real-world lessons on crisis management, authenticity, and the art of delivering tough messages without losing trust. Barry offers practical tools such as the “persuasion ladder” and the “what, why, so what” framework, while reflecting on how small business owners can connect with employees—especially younger generations—through transparency and purpose. You’ll also hear insights on reputation management, technology’s role in modern communication, and why being a great listener is the ultimate leadership skill. Timestamps 00:00 – Intro: Meet Barry McLoughlin, leadership and communications consultant 00:30 – From comedy and TV satire to coaching leaders 06:30 – Common communication mistakes and why nonverbals matter 09:20 – Becoming a trusted advisor in business 12:40 – Tight messages, soundbites, and the power of framing 13:00 – Crisis management: responding fast and building trust 17:30 – Rebuilding reputation and taking accountability 20:00 – Differentiated value and practical communication tools 26:50 – Transparency, Gen Z employees, and authentic culture 29:40 – Delivering bad news with empathy and structure 34:15 – Leading through uncertainty and protecting brand trust 38:15 – AI, technology, and the limits of machine communication 46:30 – Can “bad communicators” still succeed as leaders? 49:05 – One big takeaway: seek to understand before being understood 51:00 – Closing: Connect with Barry and learn more Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Cutting Costs Without Compromise: The Secrets to Slashing Business Expenses Well! (With Shawn Stratton from Schooley Mitchell) | 15 Jan 2025 | 00:34:53 | |
In this episode, Eric sits down with Shawn Stratton from Schooley Mitchell, a business optimization pro who helps small businesses cut costs—on average by 28%—without sacrificing quality. Drawing on his background as an expedition leader, speaker, and author, Shawn shares practical tips on auditing expenses and negotiating better rates on things like telecom, waste, and merchant services. He breaks down common myths around cost-cutting and explains how Schooley Mitchell handles the heavy lifting so business owners can save without extra hassle. It's a must-listen for anyone looking to boost profits and free up cash for growth.
Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Avoiding Common Tax Mistakes: Lessons from an Accountant with Tara Robertson (Zenbooks) | 15 Dec 2024 | 00:32:47 | |
In this episode of the Small Business Big Insights Podcast, Eric welcomes Tara Robertson, a senior accountant at Zenbooks. Tara shares valuable insights on business taxation, her journey in the industry, and even some tax horror stories. They discuss the critical role tax accountants play, share tips for small business owners, and address common myths about business taxes in Canada.
Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Navigating Business Law and Succession Planning with Expert Steve Parr | 15 Nov 2024 | 00:38:48 | |
Steve Parr shares his journey from founding and selling a vacation rental company to starting his own law firm, Parr Business Law. In this episode, he breaks down the essentials of business succession planning. Steve highlights why it’s so important to have a solid business structure, clear legal agreements, and backup plans in place for the unexpected. After all, every business partnership ends eventually—it’s just a matter of when. Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| From Flour to Power: The Surprising Strategy That's Revolutionizing the Bakery Industry with Kayla Rochkin at Bond Bakery Brands | 15 Oct 2024 | 00:37:59 | |
In this episode, Eric interviews Kayla Rochkin, the Chief Growth Officer at Bond Bakery Brands. Bond acquires family and founder-run bakeries without succession plans, helping them continue their legacy. Kayla dishes on everything from keeping quality top-notch to building a company culture that’s as warm and welcoming as fresh bread. She also shares tips on getting that B Corp certification and how to balance profits with purpose. Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Pitfalls and opportunities of world class SaaS Businesses (Drew Millington from Nmbr) | 15 Sep 2024 | 00:41:01 | |
Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Leadership and Innovation in Payroll: Interview with Wagepoint CEO Shrad Rao | 15 Aug 2024 | 00:48:45 | |
Shrad Rao is the CEO of Wagepoint, a payroll software designed for small businesses in Canada. The company, known for its friendly team, aims to make payroll simpler and less intimidating. Wagepoint serves over 25,000 customers and processes payroll for more than 200,000 employees each month. Under Shrad’s leadership, the company has grown to over 100 employees and is committed to diversity and inclusion. Shrad prioritizes a human-first approach and focuses on finding smarter solutions rather than working harder. He dismisses the concept of a "bias for action" and remains focused on customer needs and solving problems, without getting distracted by competition or trends in the marketplace. Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Mastering Business Acquisitions and Roll-Ups with Brian L. Shields | 15 Jul 2024 | 00:43:27 | |
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of business acquisitions with Brian Lee Shields, a seasoned business development and acquisition expert based in LA. With 15 years of experience, Brian has a rich background in private equity and has been involved in over $4 billion worth of investments across more than 15 industries. Listeners will gain valuable insights into business restructuring, turnaround strategies, and managing burnout. Brian and Eric cover a range of crucial topics including:
Brian also shares practical advice for first-time business buyers, emphasizing the importance of:
Tune in to learn from Brian's extensive experience and gain actionable tips to help you succeed in the world of business acquisitions. Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Avoiding Common Financial Mistakes: Pro Tips from a Seasoned Planner (With Alex Hadjisophocleous from Forest Financial Planning) | 15 Jun 2024 | 00:45:18 | |
Alex Hadjisophocleous is a fee-only/advice-only financial planner at Forest Financial Planning Inc., helping individuals and business owners grow wealth through financial literacy. His unbiased advice is a refreshing contrast to financial advisors who charge substantial annual fees, particularly in Canada. In this episode, he shares a wealth of financial wisdom, including tips on insurance, paying installments, and how to withdraw a salary or pay yourself in a small business. He also shares his insights on the future direction of the financial planning industry.
0:00 Intro 0:55 Conversation begins 4:50 Financial advice to small business owner 12:00 Strategies to grow a business 22:35 Debt, Loans, Investing 25:00 Planning for an unpredictable future 29:15 Trajectory of financial service industry 32:30 Financial education 38:05 Alex’s course “Simplify and Grow” 41:20 Closing Advice
Alex Hadjisophocleous · https://forestfinancialplanning.ca/ · https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-hadjisophocleous-cfa-cfp-mba-b24aaa57/
Resource Mentioned · https://onfe-rope.ca/our-work/ottawa-volunteers-in-education/ Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| From Obscurity to Icon: Unveiling Secrets to Crafting a Memorable Small Business Brand (With Robert Smith from Greenmelon) | 15 May 2024 | 00:45:51 | |
What are the key attributes of a polished brand? To tackle this question, Eric invites Robert Smith for an insightful conversation on branding. Robert, a branding expert, Adjunct Professor, author, and Chief Creative Officer at Greenmelon Inc, has a wealth of experience in crafting successful brand identities. Having worked with numerous major companies in Canada, Robert prioritizes frequency, consistency, and quality in his approach. He shares invaluable tips and advice tailored for small businesses venturing into brand building. Throughout their discussion, they delve into topics such as logos, timelines, competition, creativity, and AI. 0:00 Intro 1:00 Conversation begins 3:40 Remove “like" 5:00 Frequency, consistency, quality 10:44 Outsourcing branding and consulting 13:45 Budget and commitment 16:35 The issue with AI 21:00 When to invest in branding 25:18 Lasting logos 27:40 Competition, disruption, colors 30:30 Value of branding 36:40 Stop Looking For Zebras 40:10 Creativity 42:40 What’s next 44:02 Get connected Robert Smith https://www.linkedin.com/in/greenmelonrobert/ Stop Looking for Zebras https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/stop-looking-for-zebras-robert-b-smith/1144315674 Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Secrets to Building a Team That Fuels Your Success: What Every Entrepreneur Needs to Know!(With Zach Montroy from The Intention Collective) | 15 Apr 2024 | 00:36:37 | |
Growing and scaling a small business takes strategy, innovation, and above all, great leadership. Zach Montroy, the Founder & CEO of The Intention Collective—a group of consultants specializing in small business growth and scaling—is a Harvard-educated strategist focusing on organizational psychology and development. In this lively discussion, they delve into team motivation, vision, values, goals, and systems. In an unpredictable world, like during the COVID-19 pandemic, how often should you revisit your business strategy? Zach suggests it’s helpful to have no more than four values and to continually build trust internally within your team. He also emphasizes the value of personal coaching and therapy, sharing insights from his own entrepreneurial journey. Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Mayor on the Mic: Small-Biz Lessons from Mayor Mark Sutcliffe | 15 Sep 2025 | 00:39:48 | |
In this episode of Small Business Big Insights, Eric Saumure welcomes Mayor Mark Sutcliffe to explore the intersection of leadership, politics, and entrepreneurship. From his early days as a broadcaster and business coach to his current role as mayor of Ottawa, Mark shares candid reflections on authenticity, resilience, and the challenges of public life. He opens up about how small business values shaped his leadership style, why civility in politics matters, and what entrepreneurs can learn from the realities of City Hall. Along the way, you’ll hear personal stories—from father-son baseball trips to lessons learned in community service—that highlight how staying true to yourself is the foundation of long-term success. This conversation also dives into Ottawa’s $5 billion budget, the role of Invest Ottawa, and how the city supports local business through tax policies, advocacy, and economic development initiatives. If you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or simply curious about what it takes to balance authenticity with responsibility, this episode delivers a thoughtful and practical perspective. You’ll walk away with lessons on leadership, community, and why small business owners should never compare their behind-the-scenes struggles to others’ highlight reels. Timestamps Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Unlocking Business Success: How a Punk Rock Lawyer Turned Startup Guru is Transforming 125,000 Businesses(Shane Murphy from Ownr) | 15 Mar 2024 | 00:41:00 | |
Starting a small business involves various legal considerations, many of which can be conveniently addressed online. Shane Murphy, the CEO of Ownr, brings a legal background to the table and shares his entrepreneurial journey, including successfully starting and later having his business acquired by its major competitor. Ownr, an all-in-one platform, has assisted more than 125,000 small businesses in their initial stages by facilitating tasks such as registration and incorporation and provides ongoing support for routine legal needs. Scaling up your “side hustle’ and making your business ideas official doesn't need to be excessively costly or complex. Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Unlocking Small Business Potential with IT (With Jeremy Irving from IC360) | 15 Feb 2024 | 00:45:07 | |
Small businesses should not shy away from new technology, but rather use it as a secret tool to drive employee and customer satisfaction and engagement. Jeremy Irving is the Managing Director and Senior Technical Analyst of IC 360 Solutions, a technology firm that helps small businesses. He is also a certified PMP (project management professional) and a cloud technology and digital transformation expert, with over twenty years of hands-on IT experience. Today, he shares his insights on cybersecurity, ChatGPT, Microsoft versus G-Suite, his personal views on work-life balance, and much more. Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Wealthsimple’s radical employee experience (with Gren Austin from Wealthsimple) | 15 Jan 2024 | 00:40:44 | |
Employee retention is crucial for small businesses, and providing benefits to alleviate financial worries can be instrumental in avoiding turnover. Gren Austin serves as the Head of Wealthsimple Work, overseeing the day-to-day operations of Wealthsimple's Group Retirement Business. In a conversation with Eric, Gren delves into the distinctions between group pensions and RSPs, emphasizes a client-first approach, and highlights the diverse range of services that Wealthsimple offers. Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Using emotions to improve team performance (with Ange MacCabe from Intuity Performance) | 15 Dec 2023 | 00:40:18 | |
In this episode our guest, Ange unpacks the concept of Emotional Intelligence (EI) and its multi-dimensional influence on interactions within teams. Emotionally intelligent leadership is revealed as a catalyst for trust, collaboration, and innovation, fostering a culture that drives small business success. Small business owners are offered practical strategies to harness the power of emotions, bolster team cohesion, and maximize productivity. Self-awareness emerges as a pivotal factor, underlining the importance of recognizing one's emotions in nurturing emotional intelligence. Additionally, the discussion touches on the significance of emotional resilience in overcoming challenges and setbacks. Ange provides insights into tools and techniques for assessing and improving EI within teams, citing real-world success stories to inspire businesses looking to transform their cultures. As the episode concludes, Ange leaves listeners with the encouragement to embrace emotional intelligence as a growth accelerator, offering a fresh perspective on leadership and team dynamics. Don't miss this insightful journey into the role of emotions in small business success on "Small Business Big Insights. This episode is brought to you by Zenbooks.ca and Emdash 00:00 - 00:20 Introduction The transcription begins with an introduction, setting the stage for the conversation about emotional intelligence, leadership, and personal development. 00:20 - 00:23:54 Emotional Intelligence Overview (Ange) Ange discusses emotional intelligence (EI), mentioning that it consists of four quadrants and has subcategories. They emphasize the importance of understanding EI and mention that it can be developed by up to 20% in one year. 00:23:54 - 00:25:16 Application of Emotional Intelligence (Eric) Eric acknowledges the quantification of EI growth and discusses how EI development can benefit personal life, not just the workplace. 00:25:16 - 00:26:55 Whole Person Performance (Ange) Ange emphasizes the concept of whole person performance, highlighting that personal and professional aspects are interconnected. 00:26:55 - 00:28:49 Developing Teams with EI (Eric) Eric asks about developing teams using emotional intelligence, leading to Ange's explanation of the role of leaders in promoting EI and the importance of celebrating small wins. 00:28:49 - 00:30:07 Impact of EI on Addiction (Ange) The discussion shifts to the relationship between emotional intelligence and addiction, with Ange explaining how low EI and self-esteem can contribute to addiction. 00:30:07 - 00:32:02 Coaching vs. Therapy (Eric) Eric inquires about the difference between coaching and therapy, leading to Ange discussing their approaches. They highlight that coaching focuses on assisting individuals in setting and achieving goals. 00:32:02 - 00:33:20 Starting a Coaching Practice (Ange) Ange shares their experience of starting a coaching practice shortly before the COVID-19 pandemic and how the shift to online coaching brought unexpected opportunities. 00:33:20 - 00:35:00 Future Projects (Eric) Eric asks about Ange's future projects, leading to a discussion of their plans for scaling the coaching practice and creating an AI emotionally intelligent coach. 00:35:00 - 00:35:47 Leadership Cohorts (Ange) Ange introduces leadership cohorts designed to help individuals at various stages of their leadership journey. 00:35:47 - 00:36:57 The Importance of EI (Eric) Eric asks if there are any other important aspects to discuss, prompting Ange to stress that every organization, regardless of size, can benefit from implementing emotional intelligence practic Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsa | |||
| Pragmatic view to people management (with Andrea Bartlett) | 15 Nov 2023 | 00:55:02 | |
Managing people for YOUR small business, join me with guest Andrea Bartlett, she has been Vice-President of People at Humi for 3 years. In this episode we talk in depth about how you can make sure that HR plays a pivotal role in nurturing your workplace and foster great employee experiences. Andrea has great tactical advice and real-world examples to help you enhance your Employee Experience and onboarding processes. This episode is brought to you by Zenbooks.ca and emdashagency.ca
0:00 Introduction 2:15 Andrea Bartlett 3:35 Employee Experience Explained 7:45 Communication is Key 11:49 Onboarding Mistakes to Avoid 16:47 Measuring Experience Goals 21:38 Recruitment Process Investment 26:01 Personal Touch 32:04 The Humi Differentiation 34:25 Brought to you by Zenbooks 35:47 People & Profitability Balance 41:10 Metrics Trap 44:17 Caring without Carrying 48:21 Understanding your Business 50:52 Building in the HR Space 54:21 Emdash Sponsor 54:55 Next Episode Teaser
Andrea Bartlett https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreabartlett/
References Muriel Wilkins https://hbr.org/2020/12/podcast-coaching-real-leaders Emdash Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Exclusive advantages for LGBT friendly businesses (with Darrell Schuurman from CGLCC) | 15 Oct 2023 | 00:42:30 | |
Understanding the intersection and dynamics of the 2SLGBTQI+ and business community. Join me with guest Darrell Schuurman co-founder and CEO of the CGLCC, Canada’s LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce as we explore questions that many small business owners have as it relates to the 2SLGBTQI+ community. In this episode we talk about how all businesses can do their part to recognize, include and collaborate with diverse groups in their communities. Darrell also touches on advocating for the economic empowerment of 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs. This episode is brought to you by Zenbooks.ca and emdashagency.ca 0:00Introduction 1:44Darrell Schuurman 3:33Filling the Gaps 5:04Community Evolution 7:17Supplier Diversity 14:02Overcoming Challenges & Barriers 18:21Brought to you by Zenbooks 19:232SLGBTQI+ Entrepreneurship Program 23:43How to be an Inclusive Organization 26:35Rainbow Registered Accreditation 31:27Equal Access & Opportunities 34:18Small Wins Fuel Fires 38:03Black and White Gala 2023 38:38Collaboration for Future Growth 41:40Emdash Sponsor 42:14Next Episode Teaser Darrell Schuurman https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrell-schuurman/ https://twitter.com/DSchuurman References Black and White Gala ticket sales; https://cglcc.ca/events/cglcc-8th-annual-black-white-gala-2023/ Emdash Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Are you missing out on M&A Opportunities? (with Colleen Kelley from Stratford Group) | 15 Sep 2023 | 00:45:38 | |
Mastering mergers & acquisitions for small businesses, join me with guest Colleen Kelley president at Stratford Group. In this episode we explore the strategic reasons why small and medium-sized businesses should consider acquisitions. Colleen specializes in business scale-up, strategic planning, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), and integrations. Colleen shares a comprehensive overview of M&A strategies, financial considerations, due diligence processes, key industry players, and integration challenges for small and medium-sized businesses. Don't miss out on your M&A opportunities. This episode is brought to you by Zenbooks.ca and humanihr.com 0:00:Introduction 1:13:Colleen Kelley 2:30: M&A, A Strategic Lever for Growth 6:50:Show Me The Money 10:24:4 Step Buying Process 13:11:Avoiding Deal Fever 18:08:Who’s Who in the Industry 23:06:Brought to you by Zenbooks 24:32:Finding Businesses to Buy 26:49:Understanding Valuation 28:48:Data Room 33:06:Accelerating Growth Curve 36:30:Educate Yourself 38:25:Buyers and Sellers 40:35:Rewarding Career Path 42:20:Knowing your Long Term Goals 44:56:Humani HR Sponsor Colleen Kelley colleen.kelley@stratford.group https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleenkelley99/ References Complementary business assessment and valuation. https://score.valuebuildersystem.com/stratford-group/colleen-kelley Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Top Tactical Marketing Ideas for Small Businesses (with Riaz Sidi from Sidi.io) | 14 Aug 2023 | 00:48:23 | |
Join me with guest Riaz Sidi from Sidi.io, a distinguished sales and marketing leader, sharing game-changing insights from his 20+ years of experience as he champions collaboration over competition and unveils the secrets of customer engagement. In this episode we explore the core pillars of business success from revenue generation, sales finesse, and marketing brilliance. Riaz emphasizes the importance of a strong foundation, likening it to igniting a spark before launching a marketing campaign. Discover the art of diversification and adaptability in an ever-changing market. Riaz advocates authentic self-presentation, while harnessing AI and automation to elevate efficiency and customer experiences. Embrace the journey, and let Riaz light the way to unconventional success strategies. 0:00: Introduction 1:11: Riaz Sidi 2:17: Overlooking the fundamentals 6:05: Playing the short game only 9:41: Being real and having fun 12:20: Collaboration is key 14:52: Brought to you by Zenbooks 15:45: Harnessing AI to maintain rates during inflation 18:42: Blue Ocean strategy 21:54: Embracing AI for better outcomes 23:36: Education, entertainment and enlightenment 29:14: Building your own ecosystem 34:00: Water cooler culture 36:11: Get off the roller coaster 40:21: Balancing work and family; getting out what you put in 42:08: Keeping the honeymoon alive 47:17: Humani HR Sponsor 48:00: Next Episode
https://www.linkedin.com/in/riazsidi/ References Blue Ocean Strategy - https://a.co/d/hkDB4GA Your Next Five Moves - https://a.co/d/7XnrO0j Spin Selling - https://a.co/d/is9xuZ2 Building a StoryBrand - https://a.co/d/fvHNMYJ Unreasonable Hospitality - https://a.co/d/1Qzqogl Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Top Unexpected Recruiting and Retention Tactics (with James Baker - Keynote Search) | 14 Aug 2023 | 00:44:37 | |
Small businesses can thrive by maximizing talent, fostering a dynamic culture, and adapting to the evolving business landscape. Eric, and guest James Baker discuss the challenges and opportunities that small businesses often overlook, from recruitment pitfalls to harnessing government grants, this podcast explores some unexpected tactics small businesses can use to optimize their operations and culture. James is the CEO and Co-Founder of Keynote Search, he boasts two decades of industry expertise and remarkable accolades along the way, like Fastest Growing Company by Globe and Mail and Forty under 40 to name a few. James emphasizes the importance of defining expectations, leveraging technology, and embracing remote work options. Discover practical strategies and actionable advice to propel your small business to new heights.
0:00: Introduction 1:11: James Baker 2:20: Recruiting in the past, not for the future 8:30: Fostering your small business narrative 10:30: The culture trap 12:50: Culture awareness 12:45: The hybrid work movement 19:05: Brought to you by Zenbooks 20:33: Poaching talent vs developing talent 22:22: Employee centric legislation 24:31: The good, the bad and the ugly 25:52: 80/20 recruitment rule 29:30: Changes in the war for talent 32:33: Mitigating the risk of turnover 34:46: Find, fit and stay; the employment placement journey 37:35: Investment structure 40:45: Controlling scale and retaining values 42:12: People are your best asset 43:35: Humani HR Sponsor 44:17: Next Episode James Barker James@keynotesearch.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesbkeynote/ Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Secrets to Smart Revenue Growth (with Anastasia Valentine) | 13 Aug 2023 | 00:40:52 | |
Today’s conversation is with accomplished technology leader Anastasia Valentine. Join me as she reveals her strategies for smart revenue growth for small business owners and entrepreneurs. We explore the pivotal roles of CROs and CMOs in aligning marketing and sales for business expansion as well as strategies for networking and building valuable connections using CRM tools . We dive into the realm of AI in content creation while emphasizing the balance of human touch and ethical practices. Anastasia imparts wisdom on setting achievable goals, optimizing work efficiency, and preventing burnout. Tune in for practical insights. This episode is brought to you by Zenbooks.ca and ic360.ca 0:00: Introduction 1:10: Anastasia Valentine 2:41: One Team Mentality 4:22: Tapping into your Network 6:17: Adding Value to Create Efficient Marketing and Sales Processes 8:03: Listen More, Talk Less - Incredible Customer Experiences 11:19: Canceling Hussle Culture 18:13: Brought to you by Zenbooks 19:21: The AI Assistant - Human vs Machine 26:45: Language Soup - Learning Languages for Kids 29:54: How and When to Hire a Fractional CRO or CMO 32:00: Creating Measurable Goals to Manage Stress 35:22: Choosing Each Other 36:37: Start-Ups and Scale Ups 39:45: IC360 Solution Sponsor 40:31: Next Episode Anastasia Valentine https://www.anastasiavalentine.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/anastasiavalentine/ References
Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Grants, Growth & Grit: The Real Talk Small Business Owners Need to Hear" (With Nishant Raina, Mastercard Canada) | 15 Aug 2025 | 00:35:22 | |
In this episode of The Small Business Big Insights Podcast, host Eric sits down with Nishant Raina, Vice President of Product Management at Mastercard in Canada. Nishant shares how Mastercard is helping small business owners tackle some of their biggest challenges. You’ll hear about the crucial role small businesses play in Canada’s economy, the pain points they’re facing right now, and how Mastercard’s programs and tools are making a difference.
Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Evolving Beyond the Traditional Business Mindset (with Rob Dale - Rhapsody Strategies) | 13 Aug 2023 | 00:44:18 | |
Self-awareness, the ability to adapt in times of uncertainty, and building trust with clients and team members are this episode's focus. Eric and guest Rob Dale explain thought-provoking topics that help business owners expand beyond the traditional business mindset. Rob is a master coach with Rhapsody Strategies, an award-winning coaching firm, who demonstrates his ability to inspire and motivate individuals to grow and live out their purpose. His "Living Richly" podcast, featuring weekly video talks, has garnered views from people in over 20 countries. Join us through his insights, where you’re encouraged to consider your personal alignment, purpose, and relationships as essential components of success in both life and business. This episode is brought to you by Zenbooks.ca and ic360.ca 0:00: Introduction 0:55: Rob Dale; Living Richly, Cigars & Scotch 3:03: Personal Connections and Business Life Balance 8:53: Personal Purpose Statement 12:07: Business Mindset 17:15: Culture Matters, People Matter, It’s a Business After All 20:00: Brought to you by Zenbooks 20:51: Facing Uncertainty 28:32: Building Trust through Authenticity 35:17: Rituals to Guide Oneself through Stress 39:48: Living Richly Podcast 43:15: IC360 Solution Sponsor 44:00: Next Episode
Living Richly Podcast: www.livingrichly.me Rhapsody Strategies: https://rhapsodystrategies.com/ Email: rob@rhapsodystrategies.com References
https://www.amazon.ca/21-Irrefutable-Laws-Leadership-Follow/dp/140 Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Improved marketing with real research (with David Coletto - Abacus Data) | 18 Jul 2023 | 00:37:09 | |
Polls, surveys, and focus groups aren’t just for big business; small businesses can gain big insights and win a competitive edge. Diving into this topic, Eric interviews one of Canada’s best known and most respected pollsters, David Coletto. David is the Founder, Chair, and CEO of Abacus Data, a Canadian market research firm. He has a PhD in Political Science and is a professor at Carleton University. By discovering what your current and prospective customers really think, you can invest wisely into your marketing and growth strategy. Like David says, “good decisions require good data.” This episode is brought to you by Zenbooks.ca and IC360.ca
0:00 Introduction 0:42 David’s biography 2:00 Small businesses research 3:20 Practical examples 7:00 Invest in research before marketing 9:45 Gain a competitive edge 17:56 Brought to you by Zenbooks 18:40 Polling small communities 23:32 Power of persuasion 24:17 Merging business and academics 27:22 Small business principles— hospitality 29:27 Proudest accomplishment 31:46 Future of Abacus 35:45 Get connected 36:09 Brought to you by IC360 36:52 Next up
David Coletto Email: david@abacusdata.ca Resource Mentioned Setting the Table by Danny Meyer Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| This One Funding Strategy Could Unlock Millions for Canadian Startups (with David Perry and Paul LaBarge) | 15 Jul 2025 | 00:50:16 | |
In this episode of Small Business Big Insights, Eric Saumure sits down with David Perry and Paul LaBarge—two champions of Canadian innovation—to dive deep into a bold proposal that could reshape the future of early-stage business funding. Drawing inspiration from Canada’s mining sector and successful UK policy, they explain how adapting flow-through share structures to tech startups and small businesses could ignite local investment, drive job creation, and help homegrown companies scale without fleeing the country. The idea is simple yet profound: allow investors to claim immediate tax deductions for backing early-stage ventures, effectively reducing their risk and increasing the viability of Canadian innovation. The conversation also touches on national economic resilience, the gaps in current programs like SR&ED, and how democratizing wealth through broader investor access can create meaningful change. This discussion isn’t just theory—it’s a roadmap. Canadian small business owners stand to benefit from a funding model that prioritizes simplicity, broad access, and real economic impact. You’ll learn how this approach compares to existing options, why it’s gaining political traction, and how it could unlock new opportunities in communities across the country—not just in major tech hubs. Best of all, you’ll find out how to get involved. Entrepreneurs and advocates can endorse the movement, share their stories, and help shape a funding ecosystem that truly supports Canadian-owned growth. If you’re building a business and looking for smart, scalable ways to grow, this episode is packed with insight and action. 00:00 – Intro: Meet David Perry & Paul LaBarge, and the power of flow-through shares Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| From Idea to Published Book: How Sam Laprade become ‘Ottawa Made’ | 15 Jun 2025 | 00:30:52 | |
In this episode of Small Business Big Insights, Eric Saumure sits down with Ottawa connector and storyteller Sam Laprade to explore how she co-authored Ottawa Made, a book celebrating local innovation and entrepreneurship. Sam shares the full behind-the-scenes of writing and launching the book—from managing self-doubt and editing challenges to finding time to write amid a busy life. She also dives into the sales side of authorship, explaining how thoughtful distribution, event-driven marketing, and community partnerships helped move books beyond the bookstore. But this episode is about more than just writing—it’s about building something real. Sam reveals how deep, authentic relationships became her competitive edge in Ottawa, leading to everything from radio shows to keynote invitations. Her approach is a masterclass in grassroots visibility: handwritten notes, consistent event attendance, and becoming known as a connector in the city. If you’ve ever wanted to grow your presence without spending a fortune, learn why every entrepreneur has a story worth telling, or if you simply wondered how to turn relationships into lasting business opportunities—this episode delivers both strategic insights and heartfelt inspiration. 00:00 – Intro: Turning ideas into books and the power of local stories 01:10 – How Ottawa Made began and why Sam brought on a co-author 04:00 – Why writing this book became a legacy piece 05:20 – What surprised Sam most during the writing process 08:00 – Advice for first-time authors and why small daily progress matters 10:50 – Selling the book: launches, corporate gifting, and local retail partners 14:30 – Building a real competitive moat through consistent community presence 16:45 – How Sam’s portfolio career evolved from being helpful and visible 20:40 – Budget-friendly ways to be a “super-connector” 22:00 – Why handwritten notes and showing up matter more than digital spam 24:00 – Raw honesty: stories that didn’t make the book and the editing process 26:00 – The courage it takes to share real experiences and hard truths 28:30 – Rapid-fire round: favorite Ottawa spots, biggest lessons, and regrets 31:00 – Final advice for small business owners: be visible, be helpful, be human Sam Laprade, Griffin Fundraising & Ottawa Media Personality Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Succession, Power, and the New Rules of Leadership: A No-Fluff Talk (With Monique Goffinet) | 15 May 2025 | 00:54:45 | |
In this episode, Eric Saumure welcomes Monique Goffinet, seasoned board leader and governance expert, for an energizing and insightful conversation about board leadership, governance trends, and how business owners can use board involvement to grow professionally. Monique shares the realities of board service, demystifies common misconceptions, and dives into leadership lessons from her years as a CEO and board member. From emotional intelligence to modern succession planning and the "three Cs" of leadership, this episode is packed with practical insights for business owners looking to sharpen their strategic edge and contribute more effectively in board environments. Whether you're thinking of joining your first board or already serve on one, this conversation will reshape how you view governance and leadership in today's fast-paced world. 00:00 – Introduction and Guest Overview 01:56 – Misunderstood Roles of Board Members 06:16 – What Is Role Creep in Governance? 07:50 – Boardroom Dynamics and Entrepreneurial Grit 10:30 – Leadership Training and Real-World Lessons 14:11 – Outdated Governance Ideas and Succession Challenges 18:14 – The Risks of Rigid Bylaws and Outdated Board Culture 22:26 – Founder-to-Chair Transitions and Power Balance 27:08 – High-Growth Environments and CEO Vision Alignment 32:12 – The Three C’s: Communication, Compromise, and Consensus 38:45 – Emotional Intelligence in the Boardroom 41:39 – Boards Aren’t Just for Retirement Anymore 44:14 – Biggest Mistakes and Lessons Learned 50:49 – Board Experience in Nonprofits and Public Sector 53:38 – Staying Connected and Final Thoughts Monique Goffinet, MA https://www.linkedin.com/in/monique-goffinet-ma-a1754395/ Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Stop Overpaying Your Taxes: Give to Charity Instead with Flow-Through Shares (with Albert Labelle, PearTree Canada) | 15 Apr 2025 | 00:42:07 | |
Today, Eric sits down with Albert Labelle, partner at PearTree and a pro in strategic philanthropy.
00:00 Intro Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Why Montfort Hospital is More Than Just a Hospital (with Robert Rhéaume – Chair, Montfort Foundation) | 15 Mar 2025 | 00:36:33 | |
This special episode is part of the Podcasthon initiative, a global movement harnessing the power of podcasts to drive conversations around important causes. Podcasthon brings together creators, thought leaders, and change-makers to amplify voices that matter. Learn more at Podcasthon’s website. Meet Robert Rhéaume, Board Chair of the Montfort Foundation. He shares his pride in the community-funded Mental Health Emergency Zone (MHEZ) and the Montfort Hospital’s vital role in multilingual patient care, medical research, and healthcare training. Robert discusses their recent fundraising successes for mental health and inspiring donor stories, highlighting the community’s crucial role in the hospital’s success.
Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| Automation, AI & Sales Hacks: The Future of Business, Revealed (With David Burden from Arketek) | 15 Feb 2025 | 00:34:06 | |
In this episode, Eric chats with David Burden, Director of Sales and Biz Dev at Arketek, a leading Salesforce consultancy. David drops some great tips on smart sales strategies, using tech to grow your biz, and avoiding common small business pitfalls. They cover everything from the (fading) future of cold email to how AI and automation are changing the sales game. Plus, David shares practical ways small businesses can streamline their sales process and use CRM data to find more ideal customers. Packed with useful insights for anyone looking to scale smarter.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-burden1/ Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com) | |||
| From Refugee to Luxury Brand CEO: Neri Karra Sillaman's Blueprint for Immigrant Entrepreneurs | 16 Dec 2025 | 00:34:56 | |
In this episode of The Small Business Big Insights Podcast, Eric Saumure sits down with globally recognized entrepreneur, author, and Oxford lecturer Neri Karra Sillaman to explore the ideas behind her book Pioneers and what immigrant entrepreneurs do differently when building businesses that last. Drawing from her lived experience as a former refugee and founder of a luxury fashion brand, Neri shares why resilience, optimism, and reframing failure are not just personal traits but strategic business advantages. She explains how immigrant founders often spot overlooked opportunities, treat rejection as part of progress, and build companies with longevity in mind, especially during uncertain economic times. Neri also discusses the disconnect between academic theory and real world business practice, the role of ethics and uncompromising quality in long term profitability, and why purpose and profit do not need to be at odds. Through stories from her own entrepreneurial journey and research interviews with founders behind globally recognized brands, she offers practical insight into community as a competitive advantage, decision making under pressure, and why success in business is a long game. This conversation offers small business owners a grounded, realistic perspective on building resilient companies that endure. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:15 Meet Neri Karra Sillaman 01:25 The inspiration behind Pioneers 06:22 What immigrant entrepreneurs do differently 11:53 Stoicism, agency, and reframing failure 12:30 Academia vs real world business practice 15:58 Purpose, profit, and sustainability 19:51 Building quality, pride, and long term value 23:53 Early setbacks and learning to pivot 26:42 Ethics, leadership, and business decisions 28:26 Daily habits and creative discipline 29:42 Overrated business advice 31:34 Tools, mindset, and advice for entrepreneurs 33:13 How to connect with Neri 34:07 Final thoughts and closing Follow Neri Karra Sillaman on LinkedIn Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com ) | |||
| Scaling Secrets: What High Growth Entrepreneurs Know That You Don’t - With Annika Friesen | 02 Feb 2026 | 00:44:27 | |
In this episode of The Small Business Big Insights Podcast, Eric sits down with leadership coach and former consultant Annika Friesen to unpack what truly drives sustainable growth for entrepreneurs. Annika shares why fast-scaling businesses prioritize intentionality over volume, consistency over intensity, and long-term relationship building over transactional networking. Drawing from her experience in global consulting and executive coaching, she explains how clarity in decision-making, values, and personal definitions of success can dramatically change how leaders show up in their businesses and avoid the burnout traps so common in hustle culture. The conversation dives deeper into leadership plateaus, delegation fears, and the hidden cost of burnout on judgment, performance, and long-term business health. Annika challenges entrepreneurs to ask uncomfortable but necessary questions, including whether they may be the bottleneck holding their business back. She also demystifies coaching, explains how accountability accelerates growth, and shares insights from her upcoming book MBA Unlocked, a practical guide to career transformation. This candid discussion offers business owners practical frameworks to lead with confidence, protect their energy, and build companies that support both performance and life. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:42 Meet Annika Friesen 02:37 What fast-scaling entrepreneurs do differently 06:53 Growth myths and the hustle trap 09:48 Why businesses plateau and how to break through 12:07 Delegation, hiring, and letting go 19:43 The real leadership cost of burnout 27:22 Shifting leadership identity and mindset 32:04 How coaching works and who it’s for 36:54 Annika’s upcoming book MBA Unlocked 39:15 The uncomfortable truths entrepreneurs need to hear 43:23 How to connect with Annika Follow Annika Friesen on LinkedIn The book waitlist page is here: https://annikafriesen.com/book-waitlist/ Hosted by Eric Saumure (https://ericsaumure.com ) | |||