Back to Business: Calgary
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Back to Business: Calgary episodes

  • Unlock Your Full Potential with Oksana Irwin: Breaking Invisible Barriers

    Little did Oksana Irwin know that her pursuit of success would take her on a transformative journey of personal development that would not only empower her, but also lead her to an unexpected career path - becoming a gender intelligence coach.

    Through facing her fears and tapping into her emotional intelligence, Oksana has opened up new possibilities and is inspiring others to break through their own barriers and achieve their dreams. What will this bold entrepreneur achieve next?Knowledge is not power unless it's applied knowledge and it's the right knowledge.My special guest is Oksana IrwinOksana Irwin is a seasoned entrepreneur and certified Gender Intelligence Coach with over two decades of experience in business management and coaching.

    As Founder and CEO of Mars Venus Coaching and Consulting, Oksana helps businesses and corporate leaders achieve success in life, work, and relationships. She is also a Gender Intelligence Master, Coach, and Corporate Trainer for Mars Venus Global Organization, empowering individuals and organizations to achieve breakthroughs. Oksana's bestselling co-author and keynote speaker status showcases her expertise in transformational Mars Venus seminars focused on gender intelligence, sales, leadership, communication, mental health, stress management, and personal performance.This is Oksana Irwin's story:Oksana Irwin was just like many determined entrepreneurs. She built a successful local business by relentlessly pursuing her goal, working long hours, and tapping into her masculine energy.

    Though she achieved the success she desired, it came with a heavy price – burnout and physical symptoms. This realization led her to a transformative journey of personal development that would forever change her perspective on how to run a business and live her life. Oksana began to understand the importance of emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and breaking through invisible barriers that held her back.In this episode, you will be able to:Conquer the mindset barriers that hold back entrepreneurial success and growth.Decipher the key concepts behind profit margins and generating leads for business scalability.Harness the power of gender intelligence to boost relationships and improve leadership.Utilize personal growth methods to surpass self-imposed limitations and gain a competitive edge.Foster a visionary, inclusive work environment that inspires and strengthens company culture.

    Scaling Success: Building a Strong Business Foundation
    To scale their businesses and achieve success, entrepreneurs must begin by focusing on creating a strong foundation. This involves understanding the fundamentals of building a scalable business and prioritizing the implementation of effective systems and strategies. Entrepreneurs should maintain a growth mindset and continuously adapt to new situations and challenges. They must also be willing to invest time, effort, and knowledge for long-term success rather than seeking instant gratification.During the podcast, Oksana Irwin shares that success begets success. As entrepreneurs cultivate their own personal development and emotional intelligence, they can more effectively operate their businesses and manage potential obstacles. By using the Mars Venus business framework and other proven methodologies, entrepreneurs can better navigate the challenging landscape of their industry and create a solid foundation for growth and success.The resources mentioned in this episode are:Attend personal development events to gain new perspectives, break through limitations, and improve emotional intelligence.

    Face fears by participating in challenging activities (e.g., walking on fire, skydiving) to prove your capabilities and expand your comfort zone.Invest time in learning and applying successful business strategies from others who have already achieved success in their fields.Develop strong business systems and processes to avoid burnout and create a foundation for long-term success.Focus on continuous self-improvement and playing a bigger game in both personal and professional life.Seek help from a certified Gender Intelligence Coach, like Oksana Irwin, to improve communication, leadership, and personal performance in the workplace.Read and learn from bestselling coauthors and keynote speakers on topics such as gender intelligence, sales, leadership, communication, mental health, stress management, and personal performance.Consider attending a Tony Robbins event, such as Unleash the Power Within, to gain breakthrough insights and experiences. Implement the Mars Venus business framework, systems, and methodology for achieving goals and creating extraordinary results in your career and personal life.

    Connect with me here:
    https://twitter.com/calpeteclub
    https://calpeteclub.com/
    https://www.facebook.com/calpeteclub
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/calgary-petroleum-club-3a5868117/
    https://www.youtube.com/user/calpeteclub
    42 min
  • Breaking Barriers with Heather Culbert: Navigating a Male-Dominated Industry

    For Heather Culbert, growing up in a male-dominated industry meant facing unique challenges, but it also set her on a path to become an advocate for change. She fought to create a more equitable future where women hold 50% of decision-making roles, but what Heather didn't expect was the powerful impact of diverse perspectives that has resulted.Change was fantastic, and it created success.



    Heather Culbert, a remarkable and fearless woman, has managed to carve her own path in the male-dominated oil and gas industry. With over 27 years of experience, Heather has held senior positions such as Senior Vice President of Corporate Services at Enterplus. She also served as Vice Chair of the Board of Export Development Canada and is a board member of the Fraser Institute and Catapult Environmental. A passionate volunteer and philanthropist, Heather has co-founded and chairs both the Board Ready Women and Access Connects not-for-profit organizations in Alberta. Her trailblazing journey showcases her determination to create change and her ability to thrive in challenging environments.



    This is Heather Culbert's story:


    Born in Wainwright, Alberta, Heather Culbert was no stranger to challenges. Growing up in a time when women were just beginning to break through in male-dominated industries, she knew she had to be courageous to make a difference. With a background in technology, Heather was often the only woman in the room, but her ability to adapt and embrace change proved to be a major factor in her success. As she climbed the corporate ladder, she became an advocate for change, helping to pave the way for future generations of women by co-founding organizations like Board Ready Women and Access Connects.



    Today, Heather continues to fight for equal representation, pushing for a world where women hold 50% of decision-making roles to create more diverse perspectives and better results.In this episode, you will be able to:Discover the inspiring journeys of women breaking barriers in male-dominated industries.Uncover the secrets to Board Ready Women, a program dedicated to preparing females for leadership roles.Learn about the incredible work done by Access Connects, an organization empowering people with disabilities in employment.Find out about the Calgary Cancer Center campaign's ambitious fundraising goal and its impact on cancer research.



    Grasp the significance of risk-taking and networking in fostering career growth and success.The resources mentioned in this episode are:Be courageous and take risks in your career to create opportunities for success.Embrace change and use logical steps and processes to solve problems.Join and participate in industry organizations and networking events, such as the

    Calgary Petroleum Club

    , to connect with other professionals and decision-makers.Speak up and advocate for equity and inclusion within your industry or organization.Consider participating in initiatives like Board Ready Women to prepare for and access board opportunities.Get involved with programs like Access Connects to support and connect with local businesses and entrepreneurs.Pursue professional development opportunities, such as the ICD (Institute of Corporate Directors) program, to enhance your skills and qualifications for leadership and board roles.Actively network and seek out opportunities to serve on not-for-profit and for-profit boards to gain experience and contribute your expertise.Support startups and innovative initiatives in your industry or city, such as the growing tech scene in Calgary.Always be open to learning from failures and setbacks, adjusting your approach and strategies for future success.



    Connect with me here:


    https://twitter.com/calpeteclub


    https://calpeteclub.com/


    https://www.facebook.com/calpeteclub


    https://www.linkedin.com/in/calgary-petroleum-club-3a5868117


    https://www.youtube.com/user/calpeteclub

    40 min
  • Building a Successful Career & Balanced Life: Insights from Kindra Howard


    There's always a silver lining.



    Kindra Howard is a distinguished project management professional with over 15 years of experience in the industry. She holds a Bachelor's of Commerce degree with a major in Entrepreneurial Management and has earned multiple certifications, including CMC, PMP, and BRMP. Kindra's career has seen her work in various locations across Canada, eventually settling in Calgary, where she has witnessed firsthand the city's growth and opportunities for young professionals. Kindra's approachable nature and ability to share her own experiences make her an invaluable resource for those seeking to grow their careers in a city full of opportunity.



    This is Kindra Howard's story:


    Kindra Howard, a project manager by trade, was born and raised in the prairies of Manitoba, moving through various Canadian cities before finally settling in Calgary. She quickly discovered the abundant opportunities and welcoming environment that Calgary had to offer, allowing her to excel in her career and find a sense of financial security. Despite battling imposter syndrome, Kindra credits Calgary's willingness to give young, ambitious professionals a chance as a major factor in her success. Now, with a husband and two children, she enjoys the city's vibrant culture and takes advantage of spending quality time with her family in local hidden gems such as Edworthy Park and Angels Café.



    In this episode, you will be able to:


    • Vanquish impostor syndrome and elevate your confidence as a young professional.
    • Discover the warm atmosphere and boundless career expansion possibilities in Calgary.
    • Achieve harmony between your career and outdoor family time in Calgary's unique environment.
    • Uncover the hidden jewels and flourishing creative networks within Calgary's community.
    • Champion inclusivity, diversity, and the empowerment of women in today's business landscape.


    The resources mentioned in this episode are:


    • Pursue a career in project management or business analysis, especially in the IT industry, for growth opportunities and high income potential in Calgary.
    • Overcome imposter syndrome and build confidence by taking on progressively larger projects and responsibilities in your career.
    • Consider moving to Calgary for a more affordable cost of living and a welcoming environment for young professionals.
    • Focus on work-life balance by spending quality time with family and friends and engaging in outdoor activities, such as skiing or visiting parks.
    • Explore hidden gems in Calgary like Edworthy Park and Angels Café for leisure time and relaxation.
    • Attend local concerts and events at venues like Angels Café for unique and engaging experiences.
    • Connect with professionals and mentors in your industry for guidance and support in your career journey.
    • Volunteer with organizations like the UFC Haskayne School of Business and PMI International for networking and professional development opportunities.
    • Embrace the advantages of living and working in Calgary by taking advantage of the city's infrastructure, opportunities, and supportive community.
    • Continue to challenge yourself and seek new opportunities for career growth and personal development in Calgary's thriving business environment.


    Connect with me here:


    • https://calpeteclub.com/
    • https://www.facebook.com/https://www.facebook.com/calpeteclub
    • https://www.linkedin.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/calgary-petroleum-club-3a5868117/
    • https://www.youtube.com/https://www.youtube.com/user/calpeteclub
    • https://www.youtube.com/https://www.youtube.com/user/calpeteclub
    • https://www.twitter.com/https://twitter.com/calpeteclub
    26 min
  • Embracing Change with Toni-Marie Ion-Brown: From Server to Club GM
    From a small-town girl to the general manager of an iconic private club, Toni-Marie Ion-Brown's journey is a remarkable one! But what's even more remarkable is her intentional effort to take the Calgary Petroleum Club on an unexpected path to inclusivity and diversity. Uncover her inspiring story and the remarkable twist it takes!Never underestimate the power of our lobby.My special guest is Toni-Marie Ion-BrownMeet Toni-Marie Ion-Brown, a small-town girl with big ambitions who has been making waves at the Calgary Petroleum Club for over three decades. Hailing from a rural Alberta village, Toni-Marie discovered her passion for people and her ability to connect with them during an exchange program in Japan. Since joining the club in 1990, she has risen through the ranks, ultimately becoming its first female General Manager in 2017.

    With her visionary leadership, she has driven significant changes within the club, including a facility renovation that has fostered a more inclusive and diverse environment. With her unwavering commitment to service excellence, respect, and personal connections, Toni-Marie is a shining example of how to successfully navigate the ever-evolving world of business networking.This is Toni-Marie Ion-Brown's story:Once a small-town girl from rural Alberta, Toni-Marie Ion-Brown found her calling in the world of private clubs. Having joined the Calgary Petroleum Club back in 1990, she quickly climbed the ranks and eventually became the general manager in 2017. Toni-Marie's journey is a testament to her tenacity, empathy, and passion for connecting with people. Her innate curiosity and genuine interest in others helped her to forge meaningful relationships within the club, paving the way for her influential leadership role.

    As general manager, Toni-Marie has been pivotal in guiding the Calgary Petroleum Club towards a more inclusive and diverse future.In this episode, you will be able to: 1. Discover the evolving vision of the Calgary Petroleum Club towards embracing inclusivity and diversity in its membership. 2. Understand the significance of networking and taking part in club events to expand your connections and opportunities. 3. Grasp the benefits of utilizing the club's lobby area for sparking intriguing conversations and building strong relationships. 4. Explore the varied club offerings, such as wine, scotch, and young professionals clubs that can cater to diverse interests. 5. Recognize the ways the Calgary Petroleum Club is adapting to the city's changing business landscape and emerging technologies.The resources mentioned in this episode are:
    • Visit the Calgary Petroleum Club to experience the club's rich history and diverse membership offerings.
    • Consider joining the Calgary Petroleum Club to connect with business leaders, entrepreneurs, and philanthropists in the city.
    • Explore the club's renovated facilities and participate in the numerous events and programs offered to members.
    • Support the Calgary Petroleum Club by purchasing wine from their retail wine cellar, which features over 17,000 bottles of quality wines.
    • Reach out to Inclusive Energy for your oilfield equipment and investment capital needs, as they are a proud sponsor of the local market and the Back to Business podcast.
    • Embrace the values of service, excellence, respect, and personal connection within your own business or organization, as demonstrated by the Calgary Petroleum Club.
    • Be agile and creative in your business approach, learning from the club's ability to adapt during economic downturns and the COVID-19 pandemic.
    • Stay informed about the ongoing evolution of Calgary's business sector, including the growth of startups and innovative technology companies in the city.
    Connect with me here:
    • https://www.twitter.com/https://twitter.com/calpeteclub
    • https://www.facebook.com/https://www.facebook.com/calpeteclub
    • https://calpeteclub.com/
    • https://www.youtube.com/https://www.youtube.com/user/calpeteclub
    • https://www.youtube.com/https://www.youtube.com/user/calpeteclub
    • https://www.linkedin.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/calgary-petroleum-club-3a5868117/
    37 min
  • From CFL Player to Real Estate Guru: Chucks Okafor's Journey

    From CFL Player to Real Estate Guru: Chucks Okafor's Journey




    Chucks Okafor, a former professional athlete in the Canadian Football League, has transitioned into a successful career as a global real estate advisor at Sotheby's International Realty. With a strong background in sports, Chucks brings his dedication, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence to his real estate practice, catering to discerning individuals and their families. In addition to his work in the luxury real estate market, Chucks serves as an active board member at the Calgary Petroleum Club Chambers and volunteers as a football coach at Centennial High School.



    This is Chucks Okafor's story:


    The journey of Chucks Okafor started in 2007 when he moved to Canada with his family. As the oldest of four, he set a great example for his siblings by embracing change and integrating into his new environment. Chucks' love for football led him to a college scholarship and eventually a professional career, playing as a running back in the CFL. However, it was his ability to adapt, stay level-headed, and be empathetic that prepared him for his transition into the world of real estate. As an advisor, Chucks now approaches properties with a long-term vision, helping his clients navigate the ever-evolving market and find the right investment opportunities in today's challenging environment.


    In this episode, you will be able to: 1. Discover Chucks Okafor's inspiring journey from professional athlete to real estate expert. 2. Grasp how level-headedness and empathy can ensure success in business. 3. Delve into Calgary's real estate market to uncover long-term investment gems. 4. Recognize the significance of building a healthy financial foundation for entrepreneurs and professionals. 5. Leverage networking techniques and community engagement for tangible business growth.


    The resources mentioned in this episode are:


    • Consider investing in Calgary real estate, as it offers many opportunities in the multifamily, single-family, and condo sectors.
    • Work with a knowledgeable real estate agent to help navigate the market and identify the best opportunities for your specific needs.
    • Keep an eye on interest rates, but don't let them deter you from making a smart investment in the long term.
    • Look at the global picture when evaluating real estate opportunities, as it can provide valuable context and perspective.
    • Develop a level-headed approach to decision-making, as it can be beneficial in both personal and professional aspects of life.
    • Cultivate empathy and understanding towards others, as it can help build strong relationships and connections in both business and personal life.
    • Set clear goals and create a plan to achieve them, as this can help to turn dreams into reality.
    • Be adaptable and open to change, as it can lead to new opportunities and growth.
    • Stay curious and continue learning, as it can help to identify new trends and opportunities in the real estate market.
    • Reach out to Chucks Okafor for professional advice and assistance with navigating the Calgary real estate market.


    Connect here:


    • https://www.twitter.com/https://twitter.com/calpeteclub
    • https://www.facebook.com/https://www.facebook.com/calpeteclub
    • https://www.linkedin.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/calgary-petroleum-club-3a5868117/
    • https://www.youtube.com/https://www.youtube.com/user/calpeteclub
    • https://www.youtube.com/https://www.youtube.com/user/calpeteclub
    • https://calpeteclub.com/
    30 min
  • Philanthropy with Heart: Shave for the Brave , Shannon Goddard and Sippy Cchina


    Shave for the Brave


    Young Adult Cancer Canada (YACC) interview with patient advocate Shannon Goddard and awardness advocate Sippy Cchina




    Shannon Goddard is a 5 year cancer surviver and a YACC patient survivor. Shannon shares her journey through cancer and managing remission witht the support of Young Adult Cancer Canada. As a yooung mother and professional , Shannon faced a different set of personal challenges in her life than an older cancer patient.



    Sippy Cchina shares how Calgary businesses can better engage a philanthropy mindset. Sippy is speaking to how current events and activities can be used to bring awareness. As one of Calgaries leading professionals she has chosen to speak up.



    Connect with us:


    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calpeteclub/


    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calpeteclub


    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/calpeteclub


    Twitter: https://twitter.com/calpeteclub


    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calgary-petroleum-club-3a5868117/


    Website: https://calpeteclub.com/




    Loved this episode? Leave us a review

    39 min
  • Alicia Quesnel on Mentorship, Sponsorship & Equity


    Alicia Quesnel is Burnett, Duckworth & Palmer LLP Managing Partner and is recognized as a leading energy lawyer by Who's Who Legal, Chambers Global Legal 500 Canada, Best Lawyers and Chambers Canada.



    She is an active member of the community, serving as past Board Chair for the Wings of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation, Director and Chair of SOS Children's Villages Canada, and a member of the Board of Directors of Calgary Petroleum Club

    .




    "If you are prepared to accept the status quo, to me that's part of the problem. You want to be part of the solution." - Alicia Quesnel




    Alicia Quesnel was born in the mid-1960s, in a dysfunctional family with a traditional mother who had no financial capability and an alcoholic father. When she was 11 or 12, Alicia took a career test that suggested she become a lawyer. She wrote away to law schools and worked hard to pursue this career, eventually falling in love with oil and gas leases through her practice.



    She worked on the LNG Canada Project and traveled across Asia to negotiate with foreign companies, learning the importance of patience, objectivity and not taking things personally. Through her career, Alicia learned that sponsorship is more important than mentorship when it comes to achieving success, and that diversity, equity and inclusion should be a goal for everyone--not just women.




    In this episode, you will learn the following:


    1. How can we move the needle to create a more inclusive and gender balanced legal profession?2. What strategies can be used to combat affinity bias in the workplace?3. How can individuals broaden their horizons and develop well-rounded interests in order to become better lawyers and advisors?



    Connect with us:


    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calpeteclub/


    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calpeteclub


    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/calpeteclub


    Twitter: https://twitter.com/calpeteclub


    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calgary-petroleum-club-3a5868117/


    Website: https://calpeteclub.com/




    Loved this episode? Leave us a review

    33 min
  • "Navigating Business Relationships: Dave Taylor's Guide to Success"

    Dave Taylor, a Calgary entrepreneur, strives to build meaningful relationships and grow his business, but finds himself challenged by the irony of the city's small town mentality, where personal connections are essential for success.



    "You have to have some sort of supplementary income. You have to have an understanding of where your money is going to come from in order to fully invest yourself into the business. And you have to be patient, and you have to build relationships. You have to build strategic alliances. You have to build a brand."

    -

    Dave Taylor



    Dave Taylor is a creative thinker and has been designing advertising and creative messaging for over 15 years. He left a high paying corporate job to incorporate his own agency, Front Marketing, which now represents organizations such as the

    Calgary Petroleum Club

    and all five major sports teams under csec.



    Dave Taylor was determined to start his own business and help others with their marketing challenges. He realized the importance of building relationships to succeed and found that it was key for clients to understand the correlation between their investment and the return.



    He learned the value of multiple touch points, strategic alliances and the power of building relationships to truly make an impact. With patience and hard work, he eventually found success and now he shares his knowledge to help others achieve their goals.



    In this episode, you will learn the following:



    1. How to leverage relationships to grow a business in Calgary.


    2. The importance of understanding the customer journey in order to properly track and measure conversions.


    3. The benefits of using a multi-platform approach to marketing.



    Resources:


    www.infrontmarketing.ca


    https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-taylor-in-front-marketing/



    Connect with me:


    Instagram:

    https://www.instagram.com/calpeteclub/


    Facebook:

    https://www.facebook.com/calpeteclub


    YouTube:

    https://www.youtube.com/user/calpeteclub


    Twitter:

    https://twitter.com/calpeteclub


    LinkedIn:

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/calgary-petroleum-club-3a5868117/


    Website:

    https://calpeteclub.com/



    Loved this episode? Leave us a review

    34 min
  • Success and Leadership insight with Kevin Gregor


    "Discover the secrets of Calgary's most successful business and industry leaders and find out how they achieved success!"



    "It's not just all business and it's not just make money. Some of it is the infrastructure put behind us. It's the education that we train our kids and our family members with. It's the support systems that things like the Petroleum Club give. And so to really make the city better, we're in a position that we can help introduce our city to new people." - Kevin Gregor



    Kevin Gregor is a managing partner with DHR Global and ICD certified director with over 30 years of experience in executive search and corporate leadership. He is an active member of the Calgary community, serving on a variety of public and non-profit boards and is a founding board member of Beau Valley College.



    Kevin Gregor was fascinated by the business and industry leaders of Calgary. He found great inspiration in the way they were able to come together to make a difference and be part of the community. This motivated him to volunteer on boards and get involved in the city. His experience working with experienced people in the corporate world and on crown boards gave him the confidence to help others learn, grow and reach their career aspirations. His dedication to giving back to the city has been rewarded with amazing experiences and lifelong friendships.



    In this episode, you will learn the following:


    1. What are the innovative ways Calgary is transitioning from dominance of one industry to another?


    2. How does understanding diversity of thought and experience help create a better outcome?


    3. What are the benefits of volunteering and giving back to the community?





    Connect with me:


    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calpeteclub/


    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calpeteclub


    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/calpeteclub


    Twitter: https://twitter.com/calpeteclub


    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calgary-petroleum-club-3a5868117/


    Website: https://calpeteclub.com/




    Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating

    37 min
  • "Uncovering Chef Joanna Astudillo's Brilliant Future with the Calgary Petroleum Club"

    Joanna Astudillo is a passionate chef in the food industry, having studied at Sait and graduating from George Brown College in Toronto, Canada with a diploma in Culinary Management.



    Joanna has held many prestigious roles in the past, including executive chef for one of Vancouver's largest catering companies, executive sous chef for the Vancouver Aquarium and now head chef at the Calgary Petroleum Club.



    Joanna is a native Calgarian, born and raised in Inglewood, and is a loving mother of a 23-year-old daughter. Joanna is a multicultural chef, embracing her Latin roots in her cooking and is passionate about providing a unique and unforgettable culinary experience







    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/calpeteclub/


    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/calpeteclub


    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/calpeteclub


    Twitter: https://twitter.com/calpeteclub


    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calgary-petroleum-club-3a5868117/


    Website: https://calpeteclub.com/

    37 min

About Back to Business: Calgary

From the publisher's feed

Rooted in the city of Calgary's intendent spirited history, the Club is a dynamic place to dine, meet and to connect for business and personal engagements. Podcasting directly from the Club to…