The Exec Hotseat Podcast [Executive] – Details, episodes & analysis

The Executive Hotseat Podcast | Episode 07: Insights from Winnipeg Mayor Scott Gillingham

In this episode, hosts Lisa Thompson and Amanda Buhse sit down with Winnipeg’s 44th Mayor, Scott Gillingham, for an in-depth conversation about leadership, innovation, and community. Elected in October 2022, Mayor Gillingham shares his journey from growing up on a Manitoba farm to serving as a pastor for over 20 years and, ultimately, stepping into politics to serve his community.

With a deep commitment to improving Winnipeg, Mayor Gillingham discusses his vision for the city, highlighting key initiatives such as the Center Plan 2050, affordable housing development, and infrastructure improvements. The mayor also offers insights into his leadership philosophy, emphasizing service, long-term decision-making, and the importance of community engagement.

From sharing personal anecdotes to tackling pressing issues like homelessness and economic growth, this episode provides a comprehensive look at what it takes to lead a growing, vibrant city. Don’t miss this inspiring and insightful conversation with a leader who is shaping Winnipeg’s future.

Key Points:

• Mayor Gillingham’s journey from farm life to politics.
• How his pastoral background influences his leadership style.
• The Center Plan 2050: revitalizing Winnipeg’s downtown.
• Tackling challenges like homelessness, crime, and infrastructure.
• His commitment to affordable housing and fostering economic growth.
• Engaging with local businesses, and reducing red tape for entrepreneurs.
• Visionary projects shaping Winnipeg’s future.

Rapid-Fire Questions with Mayor Gillingham:

• If Winnipeg were a person, how would you describe its character? Rugged yet elegant, with surprising sophistication.
• Dream job if not Mayor? Ambassador of Canada.
• Favorite local restaurant? The legendary Segovia.
• Best advice received? “Leave well” when transitioning roles.
• Hidden gem in Winnipeg? The breathtaking VIA Rail Station.

Guest’s Links:

• Follow Mayor Scott Gillingham on Twitter and Instagram.
• Learn more about Winnipeg’s strategic initiatives on the City of Winnipeg’s Website.

Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat Podcast:

• Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.
• The Exec[utive] Hotseat’s Instagram – Follow Us!
• Interested in sponsoring or partnering with the podcast? Connect with us on our website or social media to learn more about 2025 opportunities!

Ace Burpee on Building a Brand, Giving Back, and Staying Grounded

The Executive Hotseat Podcast | Episode 06: Ace Burpee with Virgin 103.1

In this episode, hosts Lisa Thompson and Amanda Buhse sit down with the legendary Ace Burpee, celebrated radio personality and host of Winnipeg's premiere morning show on Virgin 103.1. Ace shares his fascinating journey from small-town beginnings in Cooks Creek to becoming one of Winnipeg’s most iconic figures. Known for his deep love for the community and unwavering commitment to local causes, Ace brings valuable insights into leadership, philanthropy, and staying true to oneself.

From his creative start in journalism to his candid thoughts on fame and introversion, Ace opens up about the lessons learned along the way. He also shares his passion for the outdoors, his unique perspective on Winnipeg’s underdog spirit, and why giving back is essential for personal and professional growth. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with one of Manitoba’s most beloved voices.

Key Points:

• Ace’s unexpected journey into radio and how he embraced creative opportunities.
• Balancing introversion with a high-profile public life.
• The power of saying “yes” and staying prepared in both life and business.
• Why Winnipeg’s flaws make it a place worth staying and investing in.
• The Canadian Animal Blood Bank and the importance of philanthropy.

Guest’s Links:

• Follow Ace Burpee on Virgin 103.1’s Website
• Learn about the Canadian Animal Blood Bank
• Connect with Ace on Instagram
• Top 100 Most Facinating Manitobans

Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat Podcast:

• Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.
• The Exec[utive] Hotseat’s Instagram – Follow Us!
• Interested in sponsoring or partnering with the podcast? Connect with us on our website or social media to learn more about 2025 opportunities!

The Executive Hotseat Podcast | Episode 5

Human-Centric Leadership: Empowering Community through Innovation, Collaboration & Heart - Insights from Loren Remillard, CEO, Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce. 

 In this episode, hosts Lisa Thompson and Amanda Buhse engage in a compelling conversation with Loren Remillard, President and CEO of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce. Loren shares his inspiring journey, from his roots in a family-run business to leading an organization dedicated to inclusivity, advocacy, and empowering the local community.

Under Loren’s visionary leadership, the Winnipeg Chamber has evolved to prioritize human-centric approaches, champion innovation, and foster connections that strengthen businesses and the city as a whole. Join us as Loren shares invaluable insights on resilience, authentic leadership, and his aspirations for Winnipeg’s future.

Key Points:

• Loren’s personal story of resilience, inspired by his family’s entrepreneurial journey.
• The Winnipeg Chamber’s transformation into a more diverse and inclusive organization.
• Addressing critical business challenges such as housing and downtown revitalization.
• The importance of human-centric leadership: building character, empowering teams, and fostering collaboration.
• Loren’s vision for creating a thriving, barrier-free ecosystem for local businesses.

Guest’s Links:

• The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce’s Website – click here.
• Connect with Loren on LinkedIn.

Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat Podcast:

• Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.
• The Exec[utive] Hotseat’s Instagram – Follow Us!
• Connect with us on LinkedIn
• Interested in sponsoring or partnering with the podcast? Connect with us on our website or social media to learn more about 2025 opportunities!

We can't wait to connect with you and share more stories and talk shop!

Lisa + Amanda 

The Exec Hotseat Podcast | Episode 4: Dr. Norman Silver / Dave Berkowits of QDoc

In this episode, hosts Lisa Thompson and Amanda Buhse dive into an inspiring conversation with Dr. Norman Silver and Dave Berkowits, CEO + CTO, of QDoc Virtual Healthcare. Dr. Silver, a seasoned healthcare leader and innovator, shares his journey from pediatric emergency physician to entrepreneur, along side his brother in law, Dave Berkowits. Listen as they detail their journey and how they identified critical gaps in healthcare - creating QDoc to bridge them. 

QDoc is a groundbreaking platform that connects Canadians to medical care through a user-friendly, virtual model, ensuring healthcare access regardless of location or socioeconomic status. Tune-in to hear about Dr. Silver’s approach to innovation, family-driven entrepreneurship, and the importance of validating ideas and pivoting when necessary.

Key Points:

• Dr. Silver’s career transition from emergency care to entrepreneurship and healthcare technology.
• The unique virtual care model of QDoc, offering patients seamless access to doctors in real-time.
• Challenges in navigating Canada’s healthcare regulations and scaling QDoc’s services.
• Lessons in risk-taking, validating ideas, and prioritizing the patient experience.
• How technology and family collaboration play crucial roles in QDoc’s success and growth.

Guest’s Links:

• Follow Dr. Norman Silver and QDoc via LinkedIn
• QDoc Virtual Healthcare – click here!

Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat Podcast:

• Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.
• The Exec[utive] Hotseat’s Instagram – Follow Us!
• Interested in sponsoring or partnering with the podcast? Connect with us on our website or social media to learn more about 2025 opportunities!

We’re excited to welcome the queen of candles herself, Amanda Buhse, founder and CEO of Coal and Canary (and our very own co-host )! 

Join me as Amanda shares her incredible story of how she went from health scare, as a graphic designer to founder/entrepreneur - crafting delightful candles with her BFF, to growing a massive product based retail business, ending up in a seat at the Emmys and the Grammy's —yes, you heard that right! 

In this episode, Amanda reveals more about her booming candle business and provides invaluable business advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.

🔥HOTSEAT QUESTION🔥

Are you in Manufacturing or do you have a product based business? Discover Amanda’s top tips light up your own entrepreneurial journey!

Don’t miss this engaging, real conversation with a true community leader!

Tune in now on Amazon, Apple, Spotify, and iHeart to hear the full episode! 🎧✨

👉 Website: https://exechotseatpodcast.libsyn.com/

Connect with Amanda Buhse + Coal and Canary:

🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandabuhse/

🌐 https://coalandcanary.com

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Your Host: Lisa Thompson

🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisabrd/

🌐 https://brdagency.ca

 We were thrilled to sit down and welcome Todd Burns, the founder and CEO of Cypher Environmental Ltd.

Todd is a trailblazer in cleantech, leading the charge with innovative road management solutions that are transforming industries and improving communities worldwide. 🌍💡 With Cypher's products used in over 50 countries, Todd's impact is global—and growing! 🌱🌟

Join us as Todd shares more about his journey, inspiration, and great insights!

🔥HOTSEAT QUESTION 🔥Learn how you can incorporate sustainability into your business and make the 3 "Ps" a priority [People, Planet, Profit]. 🌎💼

💚 Don’t miss this powerful conversation with a leader who’s making the world a cleaner, greener place.

Tune in now and find us on Amazon, Apple, Spotify, iHeart. 🎧✨

👉 Website: https://exechotseatpodcast.libsyn.com/

Connect with Todd Burns + Cypher Environmental:

🔗 https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddburns81/

🌐 https://cypherenvironmental.com

⛳️CYPHER ANNUAL CHARITY GOLF TOURNAMENT⛳️

>>> Join @cypher and @wildlifehaven: September 17th, 2024 for their Charity Golf Tournament: https://cypherenvironmental.com/charity-golf-tournament/

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Bio | Todd Burns Todd Burns is the founder and CEO of Cypher Environmental Ltd., a Winnipeg-based manufacturer of cleantech road management solutions for dust control and road construction. Used primarily in mining and by municipalities and now expanding into new industries, Cypher's environmental products have been used in over 50 countries around the world. 🌎 Todd is an outspoken advocate for the advancement of cleantech solutions and for the organizations that operate in this space. In 2021, Todd was a member of the Global Clean Technology Advisory Group, spearheaded by Hon. Mary Ng. In this capacity, Todd assessed and advised the government on growth opportunities that would promote Canadian cleantech companies on the world stage. That same year, Todd launched the Cypher Green Roads program that partners Cypher with like-minded clients to improve infrastructure for communities around the world. The program has since been recognized by Canada's Clean50 as a Top Project award winner. 🛣️🏆

#ExecHotseat #Podcast #ToddBurns #Cleantech #Sustainability #GreenInnovation #CypherEnvironmental

Welcome to The Exec Hotseat Podcast, your go-to guide for business leadership.

Join us for short interviews with industry leaders and CEOs as we explore the world of business and entrepreneurship, covering topics from starting a business to running a global brand.

From finances to mindset, and building community, we'll dive deep into principles and practices, to help you navigate the ever-changing business landscape.

With our signature Hotseat Segments, our mission is to provide actionable advice to elevate you and your business.

I'm your host, Lisa Thompson, from BRD (Brand Revival & Design), a Canadian marketing agency, joined by my amazing co-host, Amanda Buhse, a Winnipeg Entrepreneur and founder of the Coal and Canary Candle Company.

Together, we're excited to bring you first-class business advice from guests and entrepreneurs, here locally, in Winnipeg Manitoba, and worldwide.

The Exec Hotseat Podcast | Episode 11

From Classroom to Clubhouse: How Karli Colpitts is Remixing Entrepreneurship & Community

Featuring: Karli Colpitts, Founder: Tempo Collective

In this high-energy episode of The Executive Hotseat, hosts Lisa Thompson and Amanda Buhse sit down with Karli Colpitts, also known as DJ K Chedda, the powerhouse behind Tempo Collective, a dynamic music entertainment company rooted in community, creativity, and joy.

Karli’s journey is anything but conventional. From her early days as a choir singer and elementary school teacher to spinning funk, RnB, and soul at major festivals like Winnipeg Folk Fest, Festival du Voyageur, and Harvest Moon, she shares how she carved out a vibrant career in music, entertainment, and entrepreneurship - all while raising a family.

You’ll hear how DJ K Chedda and her partner Tim created the unforgettable Wackydoodle Dance Party, how she leveraged her training at Mama Cutsworth’s DJ Academy, and why making space for joy and inclusion is central to her business.

This conversation explores the powerful intersection of parenting, artistic expression, and entrepreneurship - and how Karli’s unique blend of ADHD-fueled creativity, optimism, and hustle is reshaping what it means to build a business from the heart.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Karli’s love for music began with childhood dance parties and grew into a full-fledged DJ career.

• She launched Tempo Collective to offer inclusive, high-quality entertainment for families, weddings, and festivals.

• A master of wearing many hats, Karli balances teaching, DJing, parenting, and entrepreneurship with clarity and care.

• Her mission includes supporting emerging DJs and fostering community through joyful, shared musical experiences.

• Karli’s approach is a reminder that passion, purpose, and a little bit of funk can take you farther than you ever imagined.

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👉 Connect with Karli!

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/karli-colpitts-86bb6122
📷 Instagram: instagram.com/therealkchedda

👉 The Tempo Collective
📷 Instagram: instagram.com/tempocollective.ca
🌐 Website: www.tempocollective.ca

👉 Wacky Doodle Dance Party
📷 Instagram: instagram.com/wackydoodledanceparty
🌐 Website: www.wackydoodle.ca

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Brought to you by our Presenting Sponsor, RRC Polytech! 

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🔥 Follow & Subscribe:

Follow The Exec Hotseat Podcast on Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Follow on LinkedIn and Instagram to connect with us!

Interested in sponsoring or partnering? DM or email us >>> exechotseat@brdagency.ca

_____

Connect with your hosts!

👉 Lisa Thompson

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisabrd
📷 Instagram: instagram.com/lisathompsonbrd

👉 Brand Revival & Design Agency

🔗 BRD LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/brandrevivaldesign
📷  BRD Instagram: instagram.com/brdagency.ca

🌐 www.brdagency.ca

_____

👉 Amanda Buhse

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amanda-buhse
📷 Instagram: instagram.com/abuhse

👉 Coal and Canary

🔗 C&C LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/coal-and-canary
📷  C&C Instagram: instagram.com/coalandcanary

🌐 www.coalandcanary.com

The Exec Hotseat Podcast | Episode 10

Building Community with Intention: Leilah Perchaluk on Curated Connections and Conscious Growth

Featuring: Leilah Perchaluk, Founder, Knew House

In this episode, hosts Lisa Thompson and Amanda Buhse sit down with Leilah Perchaluk, founder of Knew House - a private membership community for high-achieving women. Leilah shares her journey from archaeologist and insurance professional to entrepreneur, emphasizing how diverse life experiences led her to build Knew House with purpose and intention.

From launching in Winnipeg to expanding into Toronto and Vancouver, this conversation explores the power of meaningful networks, conscious scaling, and how showing up consistently fuels both personal and professional transformation.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Leilah founded Knew House after identifying a gap in professional groups for women already established in their careers.

• Her journey, from anthropology and archaeology to insurance, showcases how a range of experiences can shape unique business ideas.

• Knew House focuses on curated, intentional networking that fosters meaningful, supportive relationships.

• The company’s growth strategy is rooted in thoughtful expansion and preserving its community-focused DNA.

• Leilah’s advice: be intentional with your network, show up consistently, and stay open to evolution.

• Her disciplined morning routine (starting at 4:45 a.m.) highlights the structure and mindset of successful entrepreneurs.

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👉 Connect with Leilah:
🔗 LinkedIn @leilah-perchaluk
📷 Instagram: @leilahperchaluk

🔗 Knew House LinkedIn: @knew-house
📷 Knew House Instagram: @knew.house

🌐 www.knew.house
📬 contact@knew.house

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>>> Brought to you by our Presenting Sponsor, RRC Polytech! 

🔥 Follow & Subscribe:

Follow The Exec Hotseat Podcast on Apple Podcasts | Spotify

Follow on LinkedIn and Instagram to connect with us!

Interested in sponsoring or partnering? DM or email us >>> exechotseat@brdagency.ca

_____

Your Hosts:

👉 Lisa Thompson
🔗 LinkedIn: @lisabrd
📷 Instagram: @lt_wpg

🔗 BRD LinkedIn: @brandrevivaldesign
📷  BRD Instagram: @brdagency.ca

🌐 www.brdagency.ca

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👉 Amanda Buhse
🔗 LinkedIn: @amanda-buhse
📷 Instagram: @abuhse

🔗 C&C LinkedIn: @coal-and-canary
📷  C&C Instagram: @coalandcanary

🌐 www.coalandcanary.com

Executive Hotseat Podcast | Episode 09: Kevin Selch on operating in Winnipeg’s unique craft beer market

In this episode, hosts Lisa Thompson and Amanda Buhse sit down with Kevin Selch, Founder of Little Brown Jug Brewing Company. Kevin talks about the transition from being a senior economist in the federal government to founding a local brewery in Winnipeg.

Key Points:

 - Kevin says he was driven by a desire to create something meaningful in Winnipeg and solve the interesting business challenge of operating in the historic Exchange District.

- Starting with just one beer (1919) to build brand recognition, Keving emphasized the importance of sticking to a detailed business plan and not getting distracted by multiple product ideas.

- He says the most significant challenge in business is building and maintaining team culture as the organization grows.

- Kevin sees Winnipeg as a city with tremendous potential where entrepreneurs can make a real difference, with a supportive community that's willing to try and support new local businesses.

- Despite the overall decline of the mainstream beer market, Kevin says craft beer is growing. Consumers are becoming more selective, preferring quality over quantity, creating opportunities for local breweries.

- He believes entrepreneurship is fundamentally about problem-solving, being a generalist who can do many things adequately, and being comfortable with the possibility of failure as part of the growth process.

OUR SPONSOR
A big shout-out to our 2025 presenting sponsor, RRC Polytech. Their support makes this conversation, and many more, possible!

Guest’s Links: Check out Little Brown Jug - https://www.littlebrownjug.ca

> Follow Little Brown Jug on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat Podcast:

> Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms. 

> The Exec[utive] Hotseat’s Instagram – Follow Us!

>  Interested in sponsoring or partnering with the podcast? Connect with us on our website or social media to learn more about 2025 opportunities!

Disclaimer: The views and opinions shared on The Exec Hotseat Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and are for informational purposes only. Nothing shared on this podcast should be taken as professional, legal, medical, or financial advice. Listeners are encouraged to do their own research and seek qualified guidance. We are not liable for any decisions made based on this content.

Also - Lisa Thompson does not think Canada should become the 51st state :)