EdUp Canada

On this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, hosted by Michael Sangster, we dive into the history and success of Saskatoon Business College. Founded in 1907, the college has been family-run since 1951. Barry Chapman from the school shares insights on the importance of quality instructors, national curriculum standards, and staying updated with technological advancements. Blair and Rich Chapman discuss their roles, the evolution of student demographics, and the challenges and successes in maintaining and growing the college. They emphasize their school's long-standing impact, quality education, and adaptability in a competitive educational landscape. The episode concludes with reflections on personal mentors and the pivotal skills learned, highlighting the importance of decisive action and professional development. 

00:00 Introduction and Host Welcome 

00:50 Interview with Barry Chapman: History of Saskatoon Business College 

03:53 Key Factors for Success: Quality Instructors and Curriculum 

06:03 Current Campus Life and Student Demographics 

10:11 Interview with Blair and Rich Chapman: Family Legacy and Operations 

14:40 Challenges and Opportunities in Career Colleges 

Read the full transcript here

Listen to full episodes here

Bio for Rich Chapman:

Rich Chapman was born and raised in Saskatoon attending the University of Saskatchewan and SAIT obtaining his Economics degree and Business Administration Diploma.  He joined the family business in 1993 and taught for 5 years before going into the administrative side of things in 2000.  After 2003 both he and Blair took over the daily operations of the college from their father Barry Chapman.  Rich is passionate about helping adult learners reach their goals and making sure all technology within the college operates smoothly.  He is married to his wife Andrea for twenty years who is retired and has two daughters Avery and Dillon (18 and 31) one of whom is completing her Graphic Design Diploma at the college and the other who is working in Social work for the Government of Saskatchewan.  He is a proud grandpa to his 15 monthly old grandson Kayce and enjoys spending summers at their northern cottage in Prince Albert National Park.  In his spare time he enjoys golfing, technology and travelling to warm climates 

In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster interviews Peter Mansbridge, former host of the CBC National News. They discuss the importance of trust in journalism, the impact of misinformation and disinformation, and Mansbridge's extensive career in broadcasting. Mansbridge shares insights from his new book, 'How Canada Works,' which profiles ordinary Canadians with essential jobs. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of media, the importance of debate within newsrooms, and the critical skills needed to succeed in journalism. Mansbridge highlights the significance of diverse professions in keeping Canada functioning and reflects on mentorship and leadership in his career.

01:29 Meet Peter Mansbridge: A Broadcasting Legend

02:22 The State of Journalism Today

05:39 Challenges in Modern Media

08:05 Peter Mansbridge's Career Journey

15:22 Unexpected Beginnings: From Airline to CBC

19:57 How Canada Works: Insights from the Book

20:00 The Unsung Heroes of Canada

22:00 The Importance of Window Washers

23:06 Diverse Professions Making Canada Work

29:06 The Art of Journalism

32:22 Skills for the Future

35:52 Mentors and Their Impact

Read the full transcript here

Bio for guest: Peter Mansbridge is an award-winning journalist, a Distinguished Fellow at the Munk School of Global Affairs at the University of Toronto and a member of numerous boards and committees.

He is best known for his five decades of work at the CBC where he was Chief Correspondent of CBC News and anchor of The National for thirty years. He has won dozens of awards for outstanding journalism, has thirteen honorary doctorates from universities in Canada and the United States, and received Canada’s highest civilian honour, the Order of Canada, in 2008. He is the former two-term Chancellor of Mount Allison University, now its Chancellor Emeritus, and is the President of Manscorp Media Services where his work includes documentary film production.

In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster talks with John Baird, former cabinet minister and senior member of the Conservative Party of Canada. They discuss the evolving demands of the labor market, the impact of geopolitics on large companies, and the importance of private delivery of education to meet labor needs. The conversation delves into personal anecdotes from Baird's political career and his perspectives on the current political landscape, including his thoughts on Pierre Poilievre's potential as a future Prime Minister. Baird also shares insights into his current roles in corporate Canada and reflects on the importance of problem-solving, communication, and mentorship in achieving lasting success. 

Read the full transcript here

00:00 The Future of Work and Skills Development 

00:58 Introducing John Baird: A Journey from Politics to Private Sector 

01:58 John Baird's Political Beginnings and Career Highlights 

02:56 The Importance of Keeping Politics Professional 

04:58 Navigating the Challenges of Corporate Canada 

06:25 Pierre Poilievre's Leadership and Potential Impact 

10:54 The Importance of Civility in Politics 

13:09 Addressing the Crisis in International Education 

13:29 The Role of Career Colleges in Workforce Development 

19:10 John Baird's Personal Insights and Mentorship 

23:21 Wrapping Up: Reflections and Future Directions 

John Baird is a Senior Advisor at Bennett Jones LLP and a former Senior Cabinet Minister in the Government of Canada. 

An instrumental figure in bilateral trade and investment relationships, Mr. Baird has played a leading role in the Canada-China dialogue and worked to build ties with ASEAN countries. In addition, Mr. Baird has worked closely with international leaders to strengthen security and economic ties with the United States and Middle Eastern countries. 

A native of Ottawa, Baird spent three terms as a Member of Parliament and four years as Foreign Minister. He also served as President of the Treasury Board, Minister of the 

Environment, Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons. In 2010, he was selected by Members of Parliament from all parties as Parliamentarian of the Year. Prior to entering federal politics, Mr. Baird spent ten years in the Ontario Legislature where he served as Minister of Community and Social Services, Minister of Energy, and Government House Leader. 

In addition to his work with Bennett Jones, Mr. Baird sits on the advisory board of Barrick Gold Corp., the corporate boards of Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited (CPKC), Canfor Corporation (as Chair), the FWD Group and PineBridge Investments. He also serves as a Senior Advisor at Eurasia Group, a global political risk consultancy. 

Mr. Baird also volunteers his time with Community Living Ontario, an organization that 

supports individuals with developmental disabilities, and is a board member of the Friends of Israel Initiative. He holds an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Political Studies and an Honourary Doctorate of Law from Queen’s University at Kingston. 

In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster discusses a monumental achievement in the New Brunswick education sector with Darcie Reidpath, the president and co-owner of Oulton College in Moncton, New Brunswick. They delve into how the college became the first private career college in the Maritimes, possibly even in Canada, to offer a standalone degree program, specifically focusing on the bachelor's of science in nursing program. The conversation highlights the challenges, regulatory hurdles, and innovations that Darcie and her team navigated to achieve this significant milestone. It explores Oulton College's focus on tailoring education programs to meet the immediate needs of the local labor market, its history since 1956, the importance of adaptability, entrepreneurial spirit, and patience in the education sector. The episode also touches on the personal stories of empowerment and success that have culminated from their efforts, and the strong collaboration between private education institutions, regulatory bodies, and associations in New Brunswick. 

00:00 Introduction to EdUp Canada Podcast 

00:54 Special Episode: Educational Innovation in New Brunswick 

01:05 Darcie Reidpath's Journey and Oulton College's Milestones 

05:22 The Significance of Becoming a Degree-Granting Institution 

07:41 The Process and Challenges of Achieving Degree-Granting Status 

09:52 The Impact and Future of Oulton College's Nursing Program 

16:51 Darcie's Reflections on Student Success and Mentorship 

28:29 Conclusion and Looking Forward 

Transcript link

Bio: 

Darcie is a native New Brunswicker who went on to complete her post secondary studies at Dalhousie University and later, Crandall University. After becoming a dental hygienist in 1993, she practised for sometime and was then faced with adversity as her career finished with some difficult decisions to be made. She quickly turned this situation into a positive and took the opportunity to explore new passions. In 1998, Darcie started her career at OultonCollege, with the owner, Brain Baxter.   

In 2005 Darcie became a part of the ownership team and continued to work with students, preparing  them to enter the workforce for their first jobs! This became a true passion of Darcie’s and she continues today to support the students, community and employers through the work her team does at the college. Darcie has also been responsible for the development of the health Science programs at the college, most recently the Bachelor of Science in Nursing has been approved.    

Since 2005 when the college enrolled approximately 250 students, the college has grown to nearly 1000 students, over 100 staff and 3 campuses in Moncton. Darcie and her business partner,Aaron are proud of the work Oulton has done to be a pillar in this community for 66 years.   

Darcie and her husband Jason reside in her hometown of Richibucto NB.   

In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster delves into the transformative power of fitness education with guest André Potvin, founder of Infofit Fitness Career College in Vancouver. They discuss the vital role of passion in pursuing a career in fitness, the importance of practical training in fitness education, and the positive job outlook for certified fitness instructors. The episode also touches on Andre's unique journey from exploring various professions to dedicating his life to fitness education, and the impact of mentors on personal and professional growth. Listeners gain insights into the significance of incorporating fitness into their lives, the current state of the fitness education industry, and how Infofit is addressing the gap between the demand for and supply of trained fitness professionals. 

00:00 Introduction to the EdUp Canada Podcast 

01:30 Exploring the World of Fitness Training with Andre Potvin 

03:07 The Importance of Passion and Professionalism in Fitness Careers 

03:51 Navigating the Regulatory Landscape of Fitness Education 

09:26 Diverse Career Paths and Opportunities in Fitness 

12:12 Practical Advice for Staying Hydrated and Healthy 

15:52 Teaching and Learning in the Fitness Industry 

19:28 Expanding the Reach: Online Education and Global Impact 

20:41 Challenges and Aspirations in the Fitness Education Sector 

23:19 Mentorship and Its Impact on Career Paths 

25:58 Closing Thoughts and Future Directions 
 

Read the full transcript here

Bio:   

ACE Certified Personal Trainer (America Council on Exercise) BCRPA Personal Trainer, BCRPA-TFL, Clinical Exercise Specialist, Principles of Sports Nutrition (PSN), M.Sc. (Cardiac Rehab) 

André Noël Potvin is an internationally accredited author and fitness educator with 40 years of leadership and training experience. André holds a Master of Science degree in cardiac rehabilitation from the University of British Columbia, where he served for 4 years on the teaching faculty of the School of Human Kinetics.  He is also founder and president of Infofit Fitness Career College and is frequently invited to lecture at international public and professional conferences. 

An organization doesn't make it to be over 100 years old by being mediocre.  

And that's certainly true for career colleges across Canada.  

That's why Victor Tesan is on the show today. On this episode, we'll unpack 

* How they started radio in British Columbia  

* How career colleges are always adapting to the needs of today 

* All the hoops they *actually* jump through (it's more than you think) 

And much more on this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast 

⁠⁠Read the full transcript here⁠⁠ 

Victor Tesan, President of Sprott Shaw College, is a strategic and operational leader with 30 years of experience in the education sector. Victor has held the position of President for some of the largest regulated career college providers in the country and is also the current Chair of the National Association of Career Colleges.  He has held leadership and executive roles in numerous other sector groups and community associations such as the British Columbia Career College Association, Famee Furlane of Vancouver, and the Burnaby District Youth Soccer Association. Victor remains both a coach and community volunteer to this day.  

A graduate of both the public and private educational system in British Columbia, Victor has a proven history of building successful and sustainable organizations where culture, values, and community engagement are at the forefront. 

In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster is joined by Chad Rogers, partner at Crestview Strategy, for a deep dive into the intersections of public policy, politics, and skill development in Canada. They explore the role of career colleges in shaping the economic futures of Canadian families, discuss the complexities of populist politics and media, and discuss recent government management of international student policies and tech platform regulations. Amidst these discussions, Rogers shares his insights on the realities of government decision-making, the necessity of hard work for success, and the importance of mentorship. The episode further touches on the economic challenges ahead, with Rogers offering advice for businesses to stay agile and focused. 

00:08 Introducing the EdUp Canada Podcast with Michael Sangster 

00:51 A Candid Conversation with Chad Rogers 

01:30 Debunking the Canada Myth: A Provocative Take 

02:37 Navigating the Complexities of Populism and Media in Canada 

04:38 The Challenges and Responsibilities of Regulating Tech Platforms 

06:08 Exploring the Dynamics of Populism and Economic Discontent 

07:56 Optimism in the Face of Global Challenges 

14:59 The Future of International Students in Canada 

27:08 Leadership Insights and the Power of Mentorship 

34:44 Wrapping Up: Economic Outlook and the Pumpkin Spice Debate 

 Read the full transcript here

Bio for Chad Rogers 

Chad Rogers is a strategist, lobbyist and entrepreneur.  

Chad helps CEO’s, corporations and industry associations face crisis head on, make their case, and get things approved.   

The Hill Times magazine named Chad one of the ‘Top 100 Lobbyists’ in Canada. A sought-after media commentator, he’s been a member of the ‘Power Panel’ on CBC Television’s Power & Politics. A recipient of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal for public service, Chad serves as Honourary Consul of the Republic of Kosovo in Canada. 

As a Country Director with the Washington, DC-based National Democratic Institute, chaired by former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, he’s worked with governments and political leaders around the world. Chad has advised leaders in Armenia, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Cayman Islands, Croatia, Georgia, Iraq, Jordan, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Macedonia, Moldova, Pakistan, Serbia, Trinidad & Tobago and Ukraine. 

Chad sits on the board of the Samara Foundation for Democracy and serves as a General Partner at Trout River Ventures and as a member and Limited Partner at the VC Syndicate Gaingels.  

Originally from Prince Edward Island, Chad resides in Toronto with his husband Mark. 

In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster welcomes Marie Lemay, the CEO and president of the Royal Canadian Mint, to discuss the importance of leadership and skills development in achieving career success. They explore how good leadership doesn't need to compromise social good or employee well-being, and how these elements can actually reinforce each other. Lemay shares insights from her diverse career path, which includes roles in government, nonprofit organizations, and now at the Royal Canadian Mint. She emphasizes the importance of building effective teams, continuous learning, and problem-solving. The conversation also touches on the value of cash in a digital age, the role of courage in asking tough questions within organizations, and the impact that mentors and allies can have on one's career. Finally, Lemay offers advice to future leaders on following their passion with compassion and the significance of embracing a multidisciplinary approach to tackle complex problems. 

00:04 Welcome to the EdUp Canada Podcast: Unpacking Leadership and Skills Development 

00:54 Introducing Marie Lemay: A Journey from Engineering to Leadership 

04:51 Leadership Insights: Building Teams and Embracing Learning 

08:19 The Importance of Giving Back and Philanthropy 

11:14 Skills for Success: Listening, Languages, and Problem Solving 

17:15 Strategic Planning and Courage in Leadership at the Mint 

25:31 Mentorship and Its Impact on Career Paths 

Bio 

Ms. Marie Lemay was first appointed as the President and CEO of the Royal Canadian Mint in January 2019. With 25 years of service in senior leadership positions, she has an extensive experience in public administration. Prior to her appointment, Ms. Lemay served as Deputy Minister and Deputy Receiver General for Canada at Public Services and Procurement Canada, from 2016 to 2019. 
 
From 2013 to 2016, Ms. Lemay was Deputy Minister and President of the Canada Economic Development Agency for Quebec Regions, which promotes the long-term economic development of the regions of Quebec. From August 2012 to November 2013, she held the position of Associate Deputy Minister at Infrastructure Canada, the main department responsible for federal efforts to enhance Canada’s public infrastructure. 
From January 2008 to August 2012, Ms. Lemay was the CEO of the National Capital Commission, at the time of the introduction of the firsts public board meetings. 
 
She also served as the CEO of Engineers Canada from July 2000 to January 2008, during which Ms. Lemay led a number of international initiatives and oversaw several mutual recognition agreements. 
 
Ms. Lemay is a member of the Ordre des ingénieurs du Québec and of Professional Engineers Ontario, as well as a Fellow for both Engineers Canada and the Canadian Academy of Engineering. She currently serves on the boards of Richelieu Hardware Ltd. and the International Association of Currency Affairs, and as Chair of the International Mint Directors Association. 
 
Ms. Lemay holds a Bachelor of Applied Science with a specialization in Civil Engineering from the University of Ottawa and a diploma in public administration from École Nationale Administration Publique, and is a recipient of an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Ottawa. 

This episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, hosted by Michael Sangster, features a discussion with Sheila Musgrove, the founder of Tag Recruitment and an Amazon bestselling author. The discussion kicks off by acknowledging the achievements of women, particularly in the context of International Women's Day, and emphasizing the ongoing need for recognizing and supporting women in all fields. The spotlight then shifts to the core topic of career advancement and the crucial role of resumes in the job search process. Sheila Musgrove shares her expert advice on crafting impactful resumes, moving away from outdated resume formats to a two-step formula that showcases measurable achievements. She also addresses common pitfalls in resume preparation and offers strategies to navigate applicant tracking systems effectively. Additionally, Musgrove talks about the importance of demonstrating a track record of success, whether through academic achievements, part-time jobs, or volunteer work, to stand out to potential employers. The episode also touches on the significance of mentorship and its varied forms, highlighting that mentorship can come from unexpected sources and significantly impact one's career path. 

00:00 Celebrating International Women's Day and the Power of Women 

00:55 Introducing the EdUp Canada Podcast: A Journey into Career Success 

01:53 Special Guest Sheila Musgrove Shares Insights on Career Building 

02:35 Diving Deep into Resume Strategies with Sheila Musgrove 

11:23 The Impact of ATS Systems on Job Applications 

23:25 Addressing Career Gaps and the Importance of Mentorship 

28:13 Wrapping Up: The Importance of Mentorship and Looking Forward 

Bio:  

Sheila started TAG Recruitment in 2005 with an IKEA desk, a bargain website, and a computer monitor as big as a fish tank. TAG has grown into a thriving multi-million-dollar organization with a strong reputation for finding stellar talent.      

Her mantra is "some is good, more is better”, which applies to running, the amount of jewelry worn, heel height and laughter.     

Sheila has received numerous awards including the Alberta Venture ranking of Alberta’s fastest-growing companies – TAG has appeared 6 times on the list.  Profit and Chatelaine rank Canada’s Top 100 Women Entrepreneurs – she’s appeared on the list 4 times.  Sheila was recognized by Red Deer College as their Distinguished Alumnus of the Year.  She received the “Global Influencer” award from the Universal Women’s Network for the global reach of “Hired!”  

Her first book, “Hired!  How to Get The Zippy Gig.  Insider Secrets from A Top Recruiter.” hit the Amazon Best-Seller lists in both Canada & USA within the first 24 hours of being released.  Nearing six years later, “Hired!” is still ranked in the top resume books in Canada!   She just released a 2nd edition of “Hired!” last summer. It hit #1 Amazon best-seller in just over 3 hours of being released!  

Sheila wanted to help Ukrainian newcomers to Canada, and had her best-selling book, “Hired!” translated to Ukrainian.  It was released in November, 2022. She updated the cover with the beloved Ukrainian blue and yellow flag colours and re-released it in July.  It hit #1 that day.  

Her second book, “Unexpected Mentors.  Weird & Creative Ideas To Boost Your Career.”, was published in 2019.   

Read the full transcript here

The EdUp Canada podcast episode, hosted by Michael Sangster, delves into the subject of veterans transitioning into civilian life and how the Ontario Fire Academy plays a crucial role in repurposing their skills for firefighting careers in Canada and abroad. Guests Raakesh Bharathi, president of the Ontario Fire Academy, and Mike Lunn, a career firefighter and instructor at the academy, share their military backgrounds, their journeys into firefighting, and how the academy's programs, designed with veterans in mind, prepare individuals for firefighting careers. The episode covers the importance of recognizing the potential of veterans, addressing the general public's misunderstanding of veterans, and the unique attributes veterans bring to firefighting. It also touches on the need for better skill translation for veterans entering the civilian workforce and the advantages of the academy's training programs that cater to the quick retooling required for veterans eager to join the workforce. Furthermore, the episode explores how the Ontario Fire Academy is addressing the increasing demand for firefighters in Canada while providing continued support and opportunities for veterans. 

00:00 Welcome to the EdUp Canada Podcast: Unpacking Success Through Skills 

00:50 Veterans' Transition to Civilian Life: Challenges and Opportunities 

01:09 Introducing the Ontario Fire Academy: A New Path for Veterans 

01:35 Personal Journeys: From Military to Firefighting 

03:11 The Value of Veterans in the Workforce 

05:12 Navigating Career Transitions After Military Service 

13:34 The Ontario Fire Academy: A Closer Look 

26:52 The Evolution of Firefighting and Training for the Future 

32:46 Mentorship and Its Impact: Personal Reflections 

35:33 Wrapping Up: The Importance of Service and Training  

Bios 

Instructor Mike Lunn has been serving as a firefighter with the Hamilton Fire & Emergency Services. Mike has also served in the Canadian Armed Forces as a firefighter in the RCAF. After his time in the military, Mike transitioned to the Police Force, before taking up a career in the Fire Service. Mike is an active Ontario Fire Academy Instructor. He has also instructed internationally, teaching in the UAE, with the Ontario Fire Academy. 

Raakesh Bharathi is the Owner/President of the Ontario Fire Academy. Raakesh graduated from the Royal Military College of Canada and was commissioned as an Officer in the Canadian Army. In his private sector career, Raakesh has worked in early stage investing, economic development, and trade development. Raakesh also holds a Master's Degree in Finance from Queen's University, and a Master's Degree in Law from the University of Toronto. In addition to leading the Ontario Fire Academy, Raakesh also owns and operates the Canadian College of Health Science & Technology, in Windsor, ON. 

Read the full transcript here