Small Business | Big Insights – Details, episodes & analysis

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Drew Millington is the co-founder of Nmbr, Canada’s first embedded payroll provider. With deep expertise in SaaS and startups, Drew offers insights into key metrics that startups and small businesses should monitor, including the distinction between regrettable and non-regrettable churn. As a sales guru who has successfully scaled multiple tech startups, Drew shares invaluable advice on optimizing sales processes and effectively pitching to investors. 

0:00 Introduction
0:40 Drew’s biography
3:30 Payroll software
4:38 Tracking sell-through
6:55 Sales process
12:18 Marketing for success
16:20 AI and creativity
17:22 Operations side of scaling
22:00 Handling competition
25:00 Pitching to investors
33:30 Pivotal decisions in Drew’s career
40:00 Connect with Drew

Drew Millington  
linkedin.com/in/drewmillington 
https://www.nmbr.co/ 

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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.  

0:23 Welcoming Shrad 
4:25 Child-like VS Childish 
7:45 Simplify, simplify, simplify 
11:57 Elevator example 
15:25 Wealthsimple 
16:36 Background as financial analyst 
20:25 Facing competitors 
33:30 Equal partnerships 
36:45 Navigating change in FinTech 
43:08 Proudest accomplishment 
46:25 WageFest 

Shrad Rao, CEO Wagepoint 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shradrao/ 
https://www.wagepoint.com/ 

WageFest—https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/
1FAIpQLSfgzlA0YU2EE3K9_exCvXsCJ_GHv13SKKHFL4pMCTVkdibf8w/viewform 

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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

www.emdashagency.ca 

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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 

https://cglcc.ca/ 

References

Black and White Gala ticket sales;

https://cglcc.ca/events/cglcc-8th-annual-black-white-gala-2023/ 

Emdash

www.emdashagency.ca 

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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

www.stratford.group 

colleen.kelley@stratford.group 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleenkelley99/ 

References

Complementary business assessment and valuation. https://score.valuebuildersystem.com/stratford-group/colleen-kelley 

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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.

This episode is brought to you by Zenbooks.ca and humanihr.com

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

Riaz Sidi

https://www.linkedin.com/in/riazsidi/ 

https://sidi.io/ 

References

Blue Ocean Strategy

https://www.amazon.ca/Blue-Ocean-Strategy-Expanded-Uncontested/dp/1625274491/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1691866972&sr=8-2 

Your Next Five Moves 

https://www.amazon.ca/Your-Next-Five-Moves-Business/dp/1982154810/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2J7LQAYCPJ8IJ&keywords=your+Next+Five+Moves+by+Patrick+David&qid=1691867057&sprefix=your+next+five+moves+by+patrick+david%2Caps%2C74&sr=8-1

Spin Selling

https://www.amazon.ca/SPIN-Selling-Neil-Rackham/dp/0070511136/ref=sr_1_1?crid=HUJ3DVKOUVUV&keywords=Spin+selling&qid=1691867094&sprefix=spin+selling%2Caps%2C94&sr=8-1

Building a StoryBrand

https://www.amazon.ca/Building-StoryBrand-Clarify-Message-Customers/dp/1400201837/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2MAB2A3GS4KO2&keywords=Story+brand&qid=1691867142&sprefix=story+brand%2Caps%2C80&sr=8-1

Unreasonable Hospitality

https://

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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.

This episode is brought to you by Zenbooks.ca and humanihr.com 

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/ 

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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

Crocodiles and Crumpets

https://www.amazon.ca/Crocodiles-Crumpets-Anastasia-Valentine-ebook/dp/B004JHZ2BW/ref=sr_1_1?qid=1691702897&refinements=p_27%3AAnastasia+Valentine&s=digital-text&sr=1-1&text=Anastasia+Valentine

Nature's Creatures

https://www.amazon.ca/Natures-Creatures-Language-Introduction-Book-ebook/dp/B004JHYTYI/ref=sr_1_2?qid=1691702925&refinements=p_27%3AAnastasia+Valentine&s=digital-text&sr=1-2&text=Anastasia+Valentine

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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

Rob Dale 

Living Richly Podcast: www.livingrichly.me

Rhapsody Strategies: https://rhapsodystrategies.com/ 

Email: rob@rhapsodystrategies.com

References

Jim Collins: Good to Great

https://www.amazon.ca/Good-Great-Companies-published-HarperBusiness/dp/B00E327SVA/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1691692502&sr=8-1

Ray Dalio: Principals

https://www.amazon.ca/Principles-Life-Work-Ray-Dalio/dp/1501124021/ref=sr_1_1?crid=34X2YNBG7CDKQ&keywords=ray+dalio+principles&qid=1691692572&sprefix=ray+dalio+principals%2Caps%2C86&sr=8-1

Stephen R. Covey: 7 habits of highly effective people

https://www.amazon.ca/Habits-Highly-Effective-People-Powerful/dp/1982137274/ref=sr_1_1?crid=ZY316FQBOQ9X&keywords=7+habits+of+highly+effective+people&qid=1691692602&sprefix=7+habits+of+highly+effective+people%2Caps%2C91&sr=8-1

John Maxwell: The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership

https://www.amazon.ca/21-Irrefutable-Laws-Leadership-Follow/dp/140

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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 

LinkedIn

Abacus Data

Email: david@abacusdata.ca  

 
David's podcast: InFocus with David Coletto (Spotify)

Resource Mentioned 

Setting the Table by Danny Meyer 

https://www.amazon.com/Setting-Table-Danny-Meyer-audiobook/dp/B000JCE38O/ref=sr_1_1?hvadid=580712210320&hvdev=c&hvlocint=9060351&hvlocphy=9069740&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=48849363074289947&hvtargid=kwd-4028804306&hydadcr=21909_13324147&keywords=danny+meyer+setting+the+table&qid=1689021207&sr=8-1