The Business Gay is a weekly podcast all about business, marketing, and entrepreneurship. Hosted by Calan Breckon, it's a mix of 1-on-1 interviews as well as round table discussions with experts on hot topics happening in the world of business and tech, as well as tips and ideas to help grow your business.
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In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with founder and CEO of Kinnect, Omar Alvaresz.
Kinnect is a platform dedicated to preserving memories and relationships through digital and physical experiences. With a background in major global brands and a personal drive to combat loneliness, Omar’s focus is on building meaningful connections and empowering people to celebrate their legacies.
Omar’s passion for storytelling originated from various instances of loss in his own life - his grandfather's battle with Alzheimer's and losing his friend to Leukemia. In losing both his grandfather and friend, he knew there was a need for KINNECT - not only for them but for their families. KINNECT is not just Omar’s latest venture—it reflects his life’s work to bring people together, one story at a time.
Take 50% off Kinnect
Save your memories and connect more deeply with the people you love. Kinnect is an invite-only digital space, like your own private social network, or turn your life stories into a beautiful, physical book with worldwide shipping.
[00:42] Omar shares how personal loss led to the creation of KINNECT.
[02:29] Explaining how KINNECT combines digital apps with physical storybooks.
[05:05] Overview of how users create memory books using prompts and voice-to-text.
[08:01] KINNECT’s global reach and support for English and Spanish languages.
[11:08] How KINNECT fosters meaningful, private connections unlike social media.
[17:27] Omar talks about authentic, culturally rooted marketing for legacy building.
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Ethical AI for Small Businesses
Episode 82
Wednesday, June 4, 2025 • Duration 31:10
In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with founder of Halyard Consulting, Jonathan Goodman.
Halyard Consulting is an LGBTQ+ AI consultancy that helps small businesses automate their workflows using chatbots, voice assistants, and custom tools. With over 30 years of experience in digital strategy and advanced AI, Jonathan specializes in making automation simple, ethical, and accessible for entrepreneurs who want to grow without burning out.
In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with Jim Fielding.
Jim is a respected leader and C-Suite veteran in brand strategy, consumer products and experiences, and storytelling. He has worked at some of the world’s largest media and retail companies, including Disney, Dreamworks, and 20th Century Fox. He is a passionate advocate and philanthropist for the Queer Community, higher education, and diversity, equity and inclusion. As author of “All Pride, No Ego” he is committed to safe and authentic spaces for all individuals and communities. Jim now spends his time as an Executive Coach, Speaker, and Advocate and gives back through his work with Braven Mentoring, the Indiana University Foundation Board, The Point Foundation, and various local community efforts in Atlanta.
[00:05] Highlighted the importance of diversity in creative corporate environments for improved outcomes.
How To Podcast Like A Pro
Episode 72
Wednesday, March 12, 2025 • Duration 38:10
In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with Podcast Growth Strategist and Marketing Expert, Kylee Chandler.
Kylee has scaled top podcasts, including The Amy Porterfield Show which she helped grow over 234%. Kylee has also led audience growth for Cathy Heller and Bossbabe to name a few. She has worked with networks like HubSpot and YAP and now runs her company - Podcast Marketing Hub, helping podcasters grow their audience and build their email list with high-converting strategies. Kylee is also the Host of “Podcast Growth Tools” that you can find across all podcast platforms.
[01:13] Podcasting creates personal connections between brands and audiences.
[04:40] SEO-friendly titles improve searchability and attract the right audience.
When Entrepreneurship Meets Activism
Episode 71
Wednesday, February 19, 2025 • Duration 37:23
In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with Michael Venturiello.
Michael is a historian, writer, educator, and New York City tour guide. He is the founder of Christopher Street Tours, an LGBTQ+-owned and -operated walking tour company with a mission to increase access to LGBTQ+ history by sharing stories and uplifting the voices of those who paved the way before us. Michael has been recognized as one of FindSpark’s 'Top LGBTQ+ Influencers & Thought Leaders Transforming the Workplace Through Innovation and Impact' and as a 'Block Star of the Village' by Schneps Media. He has spoken at various organizations including New York University, the LGBTQ+ Wedding Congress, and Christian Dior, with his work featured in Time Out, National Geographic Travel, and Attitude magazine.
[00:14] Christopher Street Tours offers LGBTQ+ walking tours and connects participants with queer history and activism since 2018.
From Idea to Exit: A Founder’s Journey to Success
Episode 70
Wednesday, February 12, 2025 • Duration 22:46
In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with serial entrepreneur Sean Ramsay.
Sean is responsible for pioneering and innovating immersive technology development in VR, AR, XR and 360 degree image and video deployments for Google StreetView and YouTube 360. Through his patented camera and software invention of the Bublcam and Bubl Technology, Sean successfully exited to Samsung and private equity. So if you’ve ever used Google Street View, you have Sean and his technology to thank. He currently looks to aid in the discovery and financing of new ventures through LvlUp Ventures and is also an active volunteer for PFlag Halton in Ontario, Canada.
This recording was done in front of a live audience at the QueerTech Conference held in Toronto on November 7th, 2024.
[00:14] Sean emphasizes the importance of starting from zero and understanding the journey to success in entrepreneurship.
Can We Fix Capitalism?
Episode 69
Wednesday, February 5, 2025 • Duration 38:04
In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with Robin Shaban.
Robin is a consultant and Canadian public policy expert. They help advocates, businesses, and non-profits create government policy change by empowering them with in-depth economic and policy research and insights. They’re the Co-Founder and Chair of the Canadian Anti-Monopoly Project, a fellow at both the Public Policy Forum and Social Capital Partners, and is an Associate Partner at Deetken Insight.
[00:02] Robin Shaban emphasizes the need to address monopolies, which hinder consumer choice and entrepreneurial growth.
Employment Law and Off Duty Misconduct
Episode 68
Wednesday, January 29, 2025 • Duration 31:45
In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with principal lawyer at Zubas Flett Liberatore Law LLP, Ted Flett.
Ted represents both employers and employees in all matters of employment law. He is committed to delivering collaborative legal solutions for his clients and combines his passion for the law and problem solving with his education and experience to deliver results to clients with a workplace or human rights issue. Though an able litigator, he will also explore more cost-effective and efficient strategies for his clients, including negotiation and mediation. In the community, Ted volunteers his time to represent low-income clients through Pro Bono Ontario, provides pro bono counsel to Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce (The CGLCC) and is an active supporter of organizations such as Friends of Ruby.
This episode was recorded in front of a live audience at the CGLCC’s Toronto Business Symposium held at the CN Tower on November 8th, 2024. For those who don’t know, the CGLCC is Canada’s 2SLGBTQI+ Chamber of Commerce and we thank them for sponsoring today’s episode.
In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with the Co-Founder of designACE, Andrew Charles Edwards.
designACE is your partner for a fun, impactful, and growth-focused LinkedIn journey. Andrew is a Futures Innovation Partner at OCAD University Co, which is Canada’s oldest and largest art, design and media university in North America, where he helps enterprises, entrepreneurs, and nonprofits leverage strategic foresight to co-create a brighter future together.
[00:02] LinkedIn excels at community building, thought leadership, and connecting like-minded individuals, particularly for entrepreneurs and the LGBTQ+ community.
[03:41] Consistent engagement is vital; view LinkedIn as more than just a resume.
[05:06] Balance personal and professional content to foster authentic connections.
[09:02] LinkedIn encourages a supportive environment for celebrating achievements.
ColdStart: Your New Explosive Marketing Strategy
Episode 66
Wednesday, January 15, 2025 • Duration 26:14
In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with the Co-Founder and CEO of ColdStart, Brandon Teller.
ColdStart is an AI program designed to automate your marketing channels and decrease your marketing spend using SEO tactics. The results of ColdStart since launch have been astounding to say the least with customers increasing their conversions by over 1000% in almost every case.
Brandon is also the CTO and co-founder of Bindr, the Bisexual and Queer+ dating app. You may remember my interview with Bindr CEO Mary Richardson. Brandon has been building applications for over 14 years and has successfully scaled companies to millions of users with minimal spend and today he’s here to share some of that special sauce with you.
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[01:54] Showcased success in diverse teams at Disney, linking diversity to revenue growth and innovation.
[09:23] Warned that reducing DEI initiatives risks losing talent and market competitiveness.
[12:58] Stressed the importance of inclusivity to attract younger, socially aware talent.
[21:11] Encouraged leaders to create a positive legacy and foster environments free from ego.
[22:20] Urged a shift to new political leadership, highlighting figures like AOC.
[23:44] Advocated for kindness and empathy in debates and discussions.
[24:53] Highlighted the need for community support for marginalized groups.
[09:20] Early email list building fosters listener loyalty.
[16:32] Collaborations and podcast swaps expand reach and build community.
[19:50] Lead magnets can boost website traffic and new subscriptions.
[24:24] UTM parameters track audience behaviour to optimize marketing efforts.
[29:00] Monthly membership calls deepen engagement and provide monetization opportunities.
[32:28] Affiliate marketing offers simple, no-cost monetization options as the audience grows.
[34:20] Collaboration over competition is vital in podcasting.
[35:02] Use the podcast to build and nurture your email list for mutual growth.
[01:11] The COVID-19 pandemic spurred virtual engagements, increasing access to LGBTQ+ history for those unable to visit New York City.
[02:47] Success in entrepreneurship often comes from community support and consistency rather than scaling.
[04:51] Revenue diversification includes curated experiences beyond traditional walking tours, enhancing offerings related to LGBTQ+ history.
[19:44] Activism is diverse; sharing personal stories and uplifting queer voices is essential to the tour experience.
[22:33] Engaging with queer peers fosters community and serves as activism, especially for those from countries where queerness is criminalized.
[25:19] Interactive tours enhance community building and empower participants through engagement.
[28:08] Businesses must consider safety and adaptability in response to political changes to sustain their missions.
[32:41] Joining LGBTQ+ business organizations offers crucial support and connections for entrepreneurs navigating challenges.
[00:56] The process from the initial idea for Bublcam to its sale took about 10 years, highlighting the long-term commitment required in entrepreneurship.
[03:09] Entrepreneurs need a strong urge and a willingness to take risks to turn their ideas into realities.
[05:16] Learning about legal matters and patenting is crucial for protecting your innovative ideas in entrepreneurship.
[08:41] Having a physical product can provide advantages in crowdfunding, as evidenced by Bublcam's success on Kickstarter.
[10:23] Understanding current trends and what attracts venture capitalists can significantly impact funding opportunities.
[12:41] Building strong relationships with investors is essential, as today's investment landscape emphasizes personal connections.
[16:23] First-hand experiences of failure are common in entrepreneurship, and connecting with mentors can provide valuable guidance to avoid pitfalls.
[17:31] The technology developed for Bublcam eventually contributed to platforms like Google Street View and YouTube 360.
[20:30] Success in entrepreneurship requires patience and dedication, as the journey from idea to financial stability can be lengthy and filled with challenges.
[09:37] Monopolistic practices make it tough for new entrepreneurs to thrive, underscoring the need for stronger support programs for younger generations in the market.
[18:19] Income disparities among LGBTQ+ individuals, especially bisexuals, highlight the importance of economic inclusion and targeted support.
[26:43] Diversity drives innovation and economic growth; it's crucial for businesses to integrate it into their core strategy, not just for marketing.
[30:14] Entrepreneurs must master business fundamentals while also seeking to disrupt larger competitors in today's market landscape.
[34:21] Co-ops and alternative business models like worker owned businesses can promote fair economic gains by leveraging diverse perspectives.
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Key Takeaways for quick navigation:
[00:14] Employment law is evolving with social media, particularly regarding off-duty misconduct.
[06:12] Employers must implement effective diversity and inclusion policies while respecting human rights.
[08:04] Caution is needed when inducing employees from secure jobs due to legal implications around termination.
[15:55] Employers should monitor off-duty employee conduct on social media regarding their brand and image.
[20:10] Clear social media policies are essential for managing employee conduct.
[24:12] Canada has stronger employee protections than the US, requiring careful policy considerations by employers.
[26:32] Employment agreements are not boilerplate; specific terms are crucial for both parties.
[30:15] Engaging lawyers can help businesses create protective structures for smoother operations.
[10:38] Regularly test and adjust posts for improved engagement and feedback incorporation.
[12:00] Genuine outreach builds authentic connections and opens business opportunities without a sales focus.
[19:15] Regularly update your profile essentials and engage in groups to expand your network.
[22:18] Maintain conciseness: Be direct to stand out amidst LinkedIn noise.
[22:44] Use the "So what?" principle to ensure post relevance and clarity.
[23:12] Encourage connections and offer assistance for LinkedIn growth in 2025.
[01:00] ColdStart is an AI tech that rapidly generates millions of landing pages, boosting engagement for startups.
[02:36] Developed from Bindr's challenges, ColdStart aims to enhance user acquisition for dating apps.
[05:11] Its main goal is to optimize SEO for better product discovery and visibility.
[13:14] ColdStart has doubled user bases and significantly increased organic traffic for clients.
[15:05] Bindr's user base grew from 14,000 to 100,000 within months after ColdStart's implementation.
[18:01] It generated $250,000 in ARR during the first week, indicating high demand.
[20:43] Entrepreneurs should diversify strategies; ColdStart complements various marketing efforts.
[22:35] Setting ambitious goals is crucial; Bindr surpassed initial $10 million expectations with acquisition offers.
