The After (Business) School Special is a podcast about what business professionals, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and more have learned since finishing their business degree. Each episode will welcome a guest to discuss the stories, key learnings, and insights they’ve gained throughout their professional career.
We believe that the skills and knowledge you gain during your time as a university student sets you up for success but learning continues well beyond the classroom.
Become a life-long learner by enrolling in The After (Business) School Special and become the next guest.
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Salon Scaling Success: Disrupting the Salon Industry with Transformative Tech Solutions, Purpose-Drive Leadership, and Achieving Career Milestones with Michelle Fergusson
Season 4 · Episode 6
Friday, October 25, 2024 • Duration 57:38
Michelle Fergusson is the Head of Marketing at SalonScale Technology Inc., a role she has grown into after joining the company at an early stage. A passionate and strategic marketing leader, Michelle has played a pivotal role in helping salons streamline operations, improve profitability, and scale their businesses through the power of SalonScale’s innovative technology.
Michelle dives deep into her professional journey, starting with the origins of SalonScale and how her career trajectory mirrored the company’s growth. Joining SalonScale when the company was still in its infancy, she quickly proved herself as a crucial member of the team, developing and executing marketing strategies that have driven impressive customer acquisition and brand visibility. Today, she leads the marketing department with a focus on customer-centric growth, brand development, and innovative go-to-market strategies.
Michelle’s role at SalonScale has also allowed her to explore succession planning and strategic leadership as the company continues to scale. She shares insights on navigating the fast-paced nature of the tech industry while building systems for sustainable growth. Her expertise in ensuring salons can streamline their operations—from weighing color products to tracking costs—has had a significant impact on business owners looking to become more data-driven and profitable.
As a young leader in the tech space, Michelle is candid about the pressures and challenges she’s faced. She discusses how she found her “why” in the midst of a high-paced environment, achieving substantial career milestones in a short span. Her leadership continues to be a driving force behind SalonScale’s mission to empower salons globally.
Michelle Fergusson is an Edwards School of Business alumni (B.Comm. 2019)
Show Notes:
Connect with Michelle and learn more about her work:
This podcast is in partnership with the Edwards School of Business, University of Saskatchewan.
Balance Sheets to Portfolios: Leveraging Accounting Expertise for Wealth Management Success with Chris Kostyk
Season 4 · Episode 5
Thursday, October 17, 2024 • Duration 01:02:32
Chris Kostyk is a Portfolio Manager at MKTS Wealth Partners – iA Private Wealth, where he integrates his comprehensive expertise in public and private accounting with wealth management.
His early career experience in the public accounting/ tax with Deloitte as well as private sector accounting and corporate finance with BHP built a strong foundation in financial analysis, strategic decision-making, and work ethic, preparing him for the dynamic world of portfolio management. These diverse roles have sharpened his ability to navigate complex financial landscapes, providing a broad perspective that benefits his clients today.
Now as an independent advisor at MKTS Wealth Partners, Chris embraces the increased leadership responsibilities that come with managing his own portfolio of clients and staff. His role goes beyond investment management—he helps guide his clients through critical decisions related to retirement, estate planning, and tax optimization. Chris places immense value on building trusted relationships, ensuring his clients are not only financially secure but also confident in their financial plans.
Chris’s journey from public accounting to portfolio management exemplifies his adaptability, leadership, and passion for helping others succeed financially. His insights on wealth management, honed from years of experience and continuous learning, make him a valuable resource for anyone looking to secure their financial future.
Hospitality to High-Tech: Scaling Food & Beverage-Focused Tech Ventures, Building Successful Sales Teams, and Authentic Selling and Leadership in the Restaurant Industry with Stacey Sikorski
Season 3 · Episode 5
Monday, March 25, 2024 • Duration 01:16:59
Stacey Sikorski, Mid-Market/Enterprise Sales at Incentivio, chats with host Carlee Snow about all things:
Turning early career hospitality and customer service experience into industry expertise
Growing food and beverage focused tech ventures through the startup and scaling phases
The concept of "giving away your Legos" during a company's growth phase
Asserting leadership without "bulldozing"
Direct and transparent approach to sales to build meaningful relationships
Stacey Sikorski is a seasoned professional in the realm of Mid-Market/Enterprise Sales, currently lending her expertise to Incentivio. With a diverse background rooted in early career experiences in the hospitality and customer service industry, Stacey has transformed her journey into a remarkable career marked by significant achievements and contributions.
As the Senior Mid-Market/Enterprise Account Executive at Incentivio, Stacey plays a pivotal role in driving success in the restaurant industry. Her passion for building and scaling food and beverage-focused tech ventures is evident as she navigates the startup and scaling phases, contributing not only to revenue growth but also to the development of team infrastructure.
Boasting proven expertise in B2B sales, partnerships, leadership, customer relations, and marketing, Stacey has specialized experience in building early-stage SaaS team infrastructure. Her dedication to fostering dynamic relationship management and solving problems has strengthened restaurant brands throughout her career.
Stacey's illustrious career includes a notable 7.5-year stint at 7shifts: Team Management for Restaurants, where she served in various roles, culminating in her position as Mid-Market Sales, Franchise Lead. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in pitching for and building the Mid Market Franchise team, growing it to four account executives. Stacey's leadership extended to building strategies, processes, playbooks, and best practices, all contributing to the team's success in providing consistent value to franchised restaurant brands.
Navigating Clean Energy Entrepreneurship, Passion Projects, Continuous Learning, and Data-Driven Marketing with Jay Brown
Season 3 · Episode 4
Wednesday, March 6, 2024 • Duration 01:38:22
Jay Brown, Co-Founder and Origination & Business Development of Pressure Corp, chats with host Carlee Snow about all things:
· Investing in clean energy and Pressure Corp’s mission
· Entrepreneurship and the “perceived risk” and benefits
· The dichotomy of passion and profession
· His experience starting the resource platform ‘SaskHiker’
· Utilization of data in marketing strategies
As the Co-Founder and Origination & Business Development lead at Pressure Corp, Jay Brown is a dynamic entrepreneur transforming industrial waste pressure into clean energy. With a commitment to innovative solutions and sustainable practices, Jay has been at the forefront of Pressure Corp's mission to support decarbonization efforts in industrial facilities.
Jay's diverse background in marketing, branding, project management, and sales has been instrumental in his role at Pressure Corp, where he thrives when working with teams to develop inventive solutions to complex business problems. His track record includes leading strategies that generated over $350 million in sales and successfully directing policy development in public relations and government relations.
At the core of Jay's approach is a dedication to continuous learning, a penchant for overcoming challenges, and a belief in the power of skill development. He describes himself as someone who finds it hard to sit still, always seeking a better way while emphasizing the importance of knowing the direction before making changes.
Before co-founding Pressure Corp, Jay showcased his marketing expertise through various roles, including as a Sales Marketing Manager at Sherwood Chevrolet and a Managing Partner at Health Conveyance. In these positions, he honed his skills in strategic communication planning, branding, and the implementation of integrated marketing strategies.
From Entrepreneurship to Angel Investing: Tips for Investors, Advocating for Diversity in Startup Communities, and Shaping the Future of Holistic Healthcare and Coverage with Kenzie Bergeron
Season 3 · Episode 3
Tuesday, February 20, 2024 • Duration 01:40:29
Kenzie Bergeron, AVP Sales of Saskatchewan Blue Cross, chats with host Carlee Snow about all things:
Being an entrepreneur-turned-Angel Investor with the organization, Start Up TNT
How she got involved as an angel investor and tips for getting started
The challenges of pitching to predominantly male investor groups
Gender disparities in startup communities and the importance of diverse voices
Alternative therapies, holistic healthcare offerings, and role of proactive healthcare measures like visits to naturopaths in shaping insurance coverage
Kenzie Bergeron is a dynamic executive leader with a diverse background spanning multiple industries including Financial Services, Insurance, Health & Wellness, and Technology. Currently serving as the Assistant Vice President of Sales at Saskatchewan Blue Cross, Kenzie brings over 15 years of experience in guiding individuals, families, and businesses towards solutions that safeguard their health, wellbeing, and financial interests.
Kenzie's journey into the realm of entrepreneurship and angel investing reflects her innovative spirit and commitment to fostering local innovation and economic growth. As the founder and CEO of 'Well'N,' a tech startup focusing on holistic healthcare offerings, she has demonstrated a keen eye for identifying promising ventures and supporting them to fruition. Her role as an Angel Investor and Ambassador with Start Up TNT further underscores her dedication to nurturing early-stage Prairie companies and empowering bold entrepreneurs.
Kenzie's accolades include the prestigious CBC Future 40 award in 2022, recognizing her as an influential figure making a positive impact in Saskatchewan's community. This honor speaks to her dedication to giving back, mentoring, and actively contributing to the betterment of the region.
In her current role at Saskatchewan Blue Cross, Kenzie is instrumental in driving sales strategies while advocating for proactive healthcare measures and alternative therapies. She is a vocal advocate for gender equality in startup communities, addressing the challenges of pitching to predominantly male investor groups, and emphasizing the importance of diverse voices in shaping inclusive and innovative business environments.
Beyond the Mad Men Myth: Marketing Consultancy, Agency Realities, and the Purpose-Driven Evolution of lmno with Corey Michel
Season 3 · Episode 2
Thursday, February 15, 2024 • Duration 01:21:25
Corey Michel, CEO of lmno, chats with host Carlee Snow about all things:
Transition from working "in the business" vs. "on the business" as CEO
Marketing consultancy and agency work
Break stereotypes of agency life – it’s not like what you see on TV!
lmno's 40-year history and the evolution and rebrand of the agency
Purpose driven strategy and being a B-Corp Company
Corey Michel, CEO of lmno, leads the agency through innovation, client success, and purpose-driven strategies. With nearly two decades of experience within the marketing consultancy and advertising space, Corey has become a respected figure in marketing and advertising.
At the heart of Corey's leadership philosophy is the distinction between working "in the business" versus "on the business." As President and CEO of lmno, Corey has championed a culture of innovation and excellence, leading the agency to positive business outcomes for both new and existing clients.
Corey delves into the world of marketing consultancy and agency work, breaking stereotypes surrounding agency life. He dismantles preconceived notions shaped by popular media, revealing the real dynamics of lmno, an agency with a rich 40-year history that has undergone a transformative rebrand.
A staunch advocate for purpose-driven strategies, Corey emphasizes lmno's commitment to being a B-Corp Company. This dedication to making a positive impact extends beyond profit margins, embodying a holistic approach to business that considers environmental and social responsibility.
Corey's career trajectory within lmno reflects his dedication and growth. Starting as an Account Executive in 2006, he climbed the ranks to become the Group Account Director and eventually assumed the role of President & CEO in January 2021. Throughout his journey, Corey consistently demonstrated the ability to analyze and understand complex business problems, providing strategic solutions in branding, marketing, and communication.
In his current role, Corey oversees the success of all agency accounts, ensuring constant improvement and development of services. He keeps a keen eye on global and local trends, adapting lmno's service offerings to stay ahead of the curve.
Beautiful Messy People: Navigating People & Culture Leadership, Start-Up Scaling, and the Human Element in Tech with McKenzie Hunter
Season 3 · Episode 1
Wednesday, January 24, 2024 • Duration 47:27
McKenzie Hunter, former Senior Director, People and Culture at 7shifts, chats with host Carlee Snow about all things:
Strategic Leadership of Human Resources and how the field is evolving
Hiring and firing through the start-up scaling process
How to live your mission and not just have it as words on a wall
The ever-changing workplace dynamic
How work from anywhere and AI tools are shaping the business landscape
McKenzie Hunter, a seasoned professional in the dynamic profession of Human Resources, has spent the last six years shaping the culture and workforce at 7shifts, a leading SaaS company based in Canada. Hailing from a farming family, McKenzie's ethos is deeply rooted in the values of honesty, hard work, and a commitment to nurturing relationships, akin to her grandfather's advice on caring for cattle.
Serving as the Senior Director of People and Culture at 7shifts, McKenzie has played a pivotal role in steering the company through its high-growth phase. Her journey within the organization began in 2017 as the People & Culture Manager, progressing to the role of Director before assuming her current leadership position in April 2021.
McKenzie's tenure has been marked by a focus on strategic leadership, where she delves into the evolving landscape of Human Resources, the challenges of hiring and firing during startup scaling, and the significance of embodying a mission beyond mere words on a wall.
McKenzie sheds light on various aspects of the workplace dynamic. From the impact of remote work and AI tools on business landscapes to the crucial role of effective team-based performance reviews, she provides insights drawn from her rich experience in the Canadian tech sector.
McKenzie's passion for fostering teamwork and community building is evident. Reflecting on her departure from 7shifts after six transformative years, she expresses gratitude for the opportunity to learn from diverse and special individuals within the organization. Her farewell not only marks the end of a chapter but also an exciting new beginning, where she’ll explore fresh challenges.McKenzie often emphasizes the importance of embracing the messy yet beautiful nature of people. Her philosophy, encapsulated in quotes like "I like to say I live in a happily great world," resonates with her commitment to creating workplaces thatthrive on genuine connections, teamwork, and continuous growth. As she embarkson the next phase of her professional journey, McKenzie Hunter remains a beaconof inspiration for those navigating the ever-evolving landscape of People and Culture in the tech industry.Show Notes:
Brewing Success: Business Intelligence, Industry Trends, and Thriving in Manufacturing with Ross Gadzella
Season 2 · Episode 8
Wednesday, January 10, 2024 • Duration 01:09:20
Ross Gadzella, Business Intelligence Manager of Great Western Brewing, chats with host Carlee Snow about all things:
· Optimal operations through business intelligence
· Differences in working at a large vs. local organization
· Trends in the alcohol beverage industry
· Opportunities within the manufacturing industry
Ross Gadzella is the Business Intelligence Manager at Great Western Brewing, leveraging his extensive expertise in optimizing operations and enhancing business intelligence environments. With a robust background in supply chain management, operations, and process enhancement, Ross has played a pivotal role in elevating manufacturing processes at both large-scale enterprises and local organizations.
At Great Western Brewing, Ross leads initiatives aimed at refining the business intelligence landscape, driving operational efficiencies, and fostering optimal decision-making frameworks. His tenure at Maple Leaf Foods, particularly within roles such as Six Sigma Black Belt and Production Planner, honed his skills in driving continuous improvement within manufacturing facilities.
During his time at Maple Leaf Foods, Ross spearheaded transformative projects, significantly enhancing processes across multiple plants in Ontario and Saskatchewan. His contributions included implementing strategies to meet continuous improvement objectives, formulating and executing production schedules, liaising with cross-functional teams, and aligning operations with supply chain and quality assurance functions.
Ross's experience encompasses a diverse spectrum, from meticulously planning over 300 prepared meat SKUs at Maple Leaf Foods' Heritage mega plant to streamlining materials scheduling and coordination at various stages of production. His knack for aligning diverse departments, driving efficiency-enhancing initiatives, and crafting user-friendly tools in Excel have consistently contributed to optimized Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) rates and reduced direct product costs.
Mastering SaaS Marketing: Scaling Tech Start-Ups, Strategic Brand Building, Crafting Strategies, and Building High-Performing Teams with Chris de Jong
Season 2 · Episode 7
Wednesday, December 13, 2023 • Duration 01:03:15
Chris de Jong, Integrated Marketing Director at Gorgias, chats with host Carlee Snow about all things:
Marketing strategy and a how-to guide for marketing in tech and scaling start-ups
Opportunities in tech and how to get into the industry
Aligning your professional journey with your passion
Servant leadership and creating high-performing teams
Chris de Jong, the Integrated Marketing Director at Gorgias, is a growth-focused SaaS marketing leader renowned for scaling brand, demand, and product marketing functions.
With a strategic focus on brand-building and revenue growth, Chris has established himself as a collaborative leader adept at assembling high-performing marketing teams from the ground up. His expertise encompasses brand building and management, product marketing, demand generation and forecasting, marketing strategy development, and content marketing.
He offers a comprehensive guide on marketing strategy in the tech industry, emphasizing effective scaling strategies for startups by leveraging strategic insights. Additionally, Chris shares insights and strategies on entering the tech sector, navigating available opportunities, and carving a successful professional path within the industry. He explores the synergy between personal passion and professional pursuits, guiding individuals to align their career trajectories with their inherent interests. Chris discusses his approach to leadership and how all leadership should be “servant leadership,” and its pivotal role in fostering high-performing teams, creating environments geared towards growth and success.
Chris's innovative approach and collaborative leadership have consistently driven the companies he’s worked with, including 7Shifts and Gorgias, towards unparalleled success, fostering brand visibility and revenue growth within the competitive tech landscape. His commitment to mentoring others and sharing industry insights reflects his passion for nurturing talent and contributing to the marketing community.
Navigating Controversy: Insights on Cannabis, Psychedelics, and E-Cigarettes, Brand Building with Industry Giants, and the Business of Serving with Honor with Michael Nederhoff
Season 2 · Episode 7
Tuesday, December 5, 2023 • Duration 01:28:47
Michael Nederhoff, COO of Served with Honor, consultant, and Executive in Residence at Co.Labs chats with host Carlee Snow about all things:
Working in controversial industries including cannabis, psychedelics, and e-cigarettes
Building brand efficacy and storytelling with Loblaws, Redbull, and JUUL Labs
The parallels and differences between the cannabis and psychedelic industries
Helping veterans re-integrate into regular life after service with Served with Honor
Consulting and advising entrepreneurs and startups through Co.Labs
Michael Nederhoff is a consultant, advisor, CEO and Chairman. His experience in business is vast and spans multiple potentially controversial companies including JUUL Labs, CytoSport, Red Bull, Loblaw Companies Ltd. and more. He’s worked with e-cigarettes, cannabis, and psychedelics, been involved with the marketing at some of the biggest names in CPG including Redbull and Frito-Lays, and he’s rang the bell on the stock exchange (virtually). Hear all about this exciting career and what his main focus is now.
This podcast is in partnership with the Edwards School of Business, University of Saskatchewan.
Throughout her career journey, Stacey has consistently demonstrated her commitment to individual and team growth. From managing post-sales teams to overseeing large restaurant accounts and leading sales operations, her impact has been felt at every stage.
As Stacey embarks on a new adventure at Incentivio, her dedication to building and supporting teams, combined with her energetic and strategic collaboration, positions her as a driving force in the industry. With a focus on mid-market sales and a passion for guest engagement in hospitality, Stacey Sikorski continues to leave an indelible mark on the dynamic landscape of restaurant technology and enterprise sales.
Show Notes:
Connect with Stacey and learn more about her work:
This podcast is in partnership with the Edwards School of Business, University of Saskatchewan.
Jay worked as a Government and Public Relations Consultant at Harris Greenaway Communications Ltd. There, he played a crucial role in developing and executing strategic communications, emphasizing the integration of various media forms and leveraging research to shift perceptions.
Jay founded SaskHiker, a not-for-profit organization serving as Saskatchewan's go-to resource for hiking enthusiasts. With over 7,000 followers across social media platforms, SaskHiker has become a thriving community encouraging people to explore the province's hiking trails.
Jay Brown's journey is a testament to his ability to navigate various industries, combining business acumen with a passion for sustainability and community engagement. Jay continues to lead the charge in revolutionizing the energy landscape and contributing to a more sustainable future.
This podcast is in partnership with the Edwards School of Business, University of Saskatchewan.
Kenzie's expertise extends beyond traditional business strategies, as she is deeply passionate about fostering creativity and innovation within organizations. Her sessions on cultivating a culture of ingenuity offer actionable insights into understanding creativity, building innovative cultures, overcoming barriers to innovation, encouraging diverse perspectives, and implementing creative processes.
Driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to making a positive impact, Kenzie Bergeron continues to inspire and empower individuals and businesses alike on their journey towards success and innovation.
Show Notes:
Connect with Kenzie and learn more about her work:
This podcast is in partnership with the Edwards School of Business, University of Saskatchewan.
Corey Michel is a strategic leader, a visionary, and a driving force behind lmno's success. His passion for helping clients solve business problems and his commitment to positive business outcomes are the cornerstones of his impactful leadership at lmno.
This podcast is in partnership with the Edwards School of Business, University of Saskatchewan.
Ross contrasts the dynamics of working within large-scale corporations versus local enterprises, shedding light on the nuances and challenges unique to each setting. Moreover, his insights extend to discussing prevalent trends in the alcohol beverage industry and identifying emerging opportunities within the manufacturing sector.
Ross Gadzela stands at the intersection of operational excellence, data-driven decision-making, and fostering organizational synergy, embodying a professional dedicated to unlocking the full potential of business intelligence within the manufacturing landscape.
This podcast is in partnership with the Edwards School of Business, University of Saskatchewan.
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