Leaders Of Tomorrow Podcast

In today’s episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris Thompson interviews Griffin Betts, a standout Student Works operator, to share his incredible experience in our program.

Griffin reveals the pivotal moments that led him to join Student Works and how this decision dramatically changed his career path. He discusses his transformation from a directionless student to a thriving entrepreneur.

Griffin opens up about his first summer with Student Works, detailing the challenges and triumphs he faced as a complete novice in the business world. His stories highlight the importance of building a strong team culture and setting high personal standards.

Griffin's commitment and the lessons he learned along the way provide valuable insights for anyone looking to succeed in our program.

The conversation also delves into Griffin's personal growth, including overcoming peer pressure and bad habits, and his dedication to self-improvement. He shares how these changes have not only impacted his business but also his personal life and relationships. 

Tune in to hear Griffin's inspiring story and learn how you can apply his insights to your own entrepreneurial journey!

Enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Episode:

• The impact of joining Student Works and how it can transform your career path
• 
  
• 
  
• The challenges and rewards of running a business with no prior experience
• 
  
• 
  
• The importance of building a strong team culture and setting high personal standards
• 
  
• 
  
• Overcoming personal challenges and bad habits to achieve business success
• 
  
• 
  
• The relationship between personal integrity and business performance
• 
  
• 
  
• Strategies for continuous self-improvement and maintaining discipline
• 
  
• 
  
• The value of celebrating achievements and practising gratitude
• 
  
• 
  
• And so much more...
• 
  

Resources

Griffin Betts: https://shorturl.at/PdVLM 

Student Works: https://studentworks.com

In today's episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris talks to Brennan Basnicki, one of our alumni with an incredible story who is today a partner at Auspice Capital Advisors

During the episode, Brennan shares his journey from being an unfocused university student to finding his path in finance and trading. He talks about his early days with Student Works and how the experience helped shape his entrepreneurial mindset, teaching him to pivot and think outside the box.

He also talks about his various career challenges, including his foray into trading, the ups and downs he faced, and his eventual move into a strategic role in commodities. Brennan's narrative is filled with practical lessons on navigating career shifts, the importance of networking, and the grit needed to succeed in competitive environments.

Listeners will find out about Brennan's innovative approach to door-to-door canvassing in a challenging market, his adventures and lessons learned from launching a travel startup during a pandemic, and how he leveraged his experiences to secure a prominent role in the finance sector.

Brennan also dives into his work on changing regulatory frameworks to benefit his industry and his role in business development. He discusses the importance of mastering both technical skills and soft skills like public speaking and pitching ideas effectively.

He also emphasises the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and resilience in navigating career pivots, as well as learning from failures and continuing to grow throughout one's life. He talks about the importance of self-control, understanding others, and practising public speaking, with a focus on empathy, patience, and continuous improvement.

Listen now and enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• Brennan's transformation from a directionless student to a top performer. 
• 
  
• 
  
• The valuable lessons Brennan learned from his experience with Student Works.
• 
  
• 
  
• How to pivot and adapt in challenging business environments.
• 
  
• 
  
• The importance of networking and leveraging connections in building a successful career.
• 
  
• 
  
• The critical role of continuous learning and personal development in achieving long-term success.
• 
  
• 
  
• And so much more…
• 
  

Resources:

Student Works

Website: Auspicecapital.com 

Books:

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change 

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris is joined by Etienne Normand, a student entrepreneur who has shown remarkable growth and leadership during his time with Student Works. Reflecting on his third season, Etienne acknowledges his shortcomings in team engagement and culture building, which led to high turnover. Determined to improve, he emphasizes his commitment to fostering a supportive and motivating environment for his team in his fourth year. 

They underscore the importance of continuous improvement and avoiding complacency, and why even successful individuals and companies should strive for excellence and growth. The conversation highlights the significance of trust in leadership. Etienne recounts his experience with his production manager, whose renewed motivation and discipline played a crucial role in their business's success. Another key team member excelled in sales with an impressive close rate, demonstrating the value of having dedicated and talented individuals on the team.

Etienne also discusses the shift in his recruitment strategy, focusing on hiring "A players" who bring exceptional talent and dedication to the business. By investing in quality over quantity, he has seen substantial improvements in lead generation and overall team performance. Chris and Etienne explore the broader lessons learned through their experiences, including the importance of physical fitness and resilience, which translate into better performance in professional settings. The episode concludes with a discussion on the future of leadership, where Etienne envisions leaders who make those around them better, execute without excuses, and remain adaptable and solution-oriented.

Enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The impact of not spending enough time with team members and not organizing team events, leading to high turnover rates.

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris is joined by Troy Treleavan as they explore the essence of effective leadership and business success. Troy, a seasoned entrepreneur, emphasizes the importance of being a "Go Giver" and understanding the needs of customers and employees alike. He highlights the value of genuine interest in others and the ability to see things from their perspective, echoing key principles from Dale Carnegie's teachings. This customer-centric approach, coupled with a strong sense of self-reliance and confidence, forms the bedrock of Troy's success.

Throughout the conversation, Troy and Chris emphasize the need for leaders to maintain a strong posture in negotiations, valuing their worth and the value they provide to clients. They caution against compromising on price or services, as it can lead to difficult relationships and diminished returns. Troy's emphasis on customer focus resonates strongly, underscoring the idea that serving the customer's needs ultimately leads to long-term success and satisfaction.

The discussion closes with a reflection on the qualities of future leaders. Troy stresses the importance of continual learning and adaptation, with a focus on understanding and meeting the evolving needs of customers and markets. Chris expresses his admiration for Troy's customer-centric approach, hinting at future collaborations and discussions to further explore the principles of effective leadership and business success.

Enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The importance of self-reliance and customer focus in leadership and business success.
• 
  
• 
  
• The concept of being a "Go Giver" and its significance in understanding and meeting the needs of clients and employees.
• 
  
• 
  
• Strategies for maintaining posture and confidence in negotiations, ensuring fair value for services rendered.
• 
  
• 
  
• The pitfalls of compromising on price or services, and the importance of setting boundaries to avoid difficult relationships.
• 
  
• 
  
• The value of genuine interest in others and the ability to see things from their perspective, as key principles in leadership and interpersonal interactions.
• 
  
• 
  
• Troy's approach to customer focus, including conducting customer feedback meetings to understand and address their needs.
• 
  
• 
  
• The concept of "Best of the Best plus One" and the importance of continual improvement and innovation in business.
• 
  
• 
  
• Strategies for overcoming challenges and maintaining focus on goals, even in the face of adversity.
• 
  
• 
  
• The relationship between self-reliance, accountability, and leadership effectiveness.
• 
  
• 
  
• The future of leadership, emphasizing the need for leaders to be adaptable and responsive to changing market demands.
• 
  
• 
  
• And so much more…
• 
  

In today's episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris talks to Justin Mantha, our third-year operator from the Chelsea Wakefield area.

Justin was a standout performer from the beginning, with a remarkable trajectory in his journey through the Student Works Management Program. In his first year, Justin achieved significant success, hitting his Mexico target and learning crucial leadership lessons along the way.

During the episode, Justin shares how his perception of leadership evolved. He emphasizes the importance of human relationships in business—highlighting how leadership is at the core of any successful venture. 

Listeners will find out more about Justin\s experience with Student Works and how his personal growth and understanding of leadership transformed his approach in subsequent years. He discusses the challenges he faced in his second year, where the game got tougher, leading to lessons in resilience and avoiding complacency.

They will also learn about Justin's strategies for this year, where he has already seen remarkable growth and success. He talks about the importance of clarifying personal values, embracing determination, and assembling a strong team aligned with shared values.

Listen now and enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The critical role of leadership and human relationships in business.
• 
  
• 
  
• How challenges and setbacks shaped Justin's growth mindset.
• 
  
• 
  
• Strategies for overcoming complacency and achieving ambitious goals.
• 
  
• 
  
• The impact of personal reflection and journaling on leadership development.
• 
  
• 
  
• The importance of continuous improvement and self-discovery in business.
• 
  
• 
  
• And so much more…
• 
  

Resources:

Student Works

In today's episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris talks to Steve MacDonald, one of our alumni and the owner of Patty Mac, a thriving business specializing in high-end custom home builds and property maintenance in the Muskoka area of Ontario.

Steve, who started his business about 15 years ago, began Patty Mac as a small venture servicing clients in the affluent cottage region of Muskoka. Over the years, it has evolved into a $30 million business with over 85 staff members, catering to some of the most successful individuals in the Greater Toronto area and central Ontario.

During the episode, Steve shares insights into his entrepreneurial journey, discussing the challenges and complexities of building and managing a business of such magnitude. He reflects on his experiences before and after participating in our program, highlighting the pivotal role of sales skills and perseverance in his success.

Listeners will find out how Steve's initial venture in property maintenance expanded into multimillion-dollar custom home builds, driven by a commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong client relationships and the power of referrals in sustaining and growing a business.

Steve also delves into the strategies he employs to retain top talent, manage finances, and navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. From prioritizing transparent communication with clients to fostering a positive company culture, Steve shares invaluable lessons for aspiring leaders.

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The evolution of Patty Mac from a small maintenance service to a multimillion-dollar custom home builder
• 
  
• 
  
• The role of sales skills and perseverance in entrepreneurial success
• 
  
• 
  
• Strategies for retaining top talent and managing finances in a growing business
• 
  
• 
  
• The importance of transparent communication and fostering a positive company culture
• 
  
• 
  
• Insights into Steve's personal habits and mindset for success
• 
  
• 
  
• And so much more…
• 
  

In today's episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris chats with William Matte, a remarkable young leader from Quebec City who is breaking new records in our program.

During the episode, Will shares insights into his journey, the important lessons he learned at the Student Works Management Program, and strategies for growing leaders and reaching business goals. 

Will highlights =the importance of structure and systems in business, he discusses scaling business operations and sales strategies, the importance of communication, delegation, organisation, integrity, and following through on commitments. 

He also emphasises the crucial role of team culture in entrepreneurial success, including the benefits of a positive and supportive team environment.

Listeners will find out about Will's transformative experience with Student Works, where he rapidly scaled his painting business, leveraging his sales skills and fostering a strong team culture.

They will also learn about Will's ambitious goals, including running a half-million-dollar business, and balancing academics while training for an Ironman competition.

Listen now and enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The importance of organisation and delegation in scaling a business.
• 
  
• 
  
• Strategies for effective sales and overcoming objections.
• 
  
• 
  
• Building a strong team culture and fostering leadership.
• 
  
• 
  
• Implementing routines and habits for success in business and life.
• 
  
• 
  
• The power of setting goals and enrolling others in collective success.
• 
  
• 
  
• And so much more…
• 
  

Resources:

Student Works

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris is joined by Jon Mailhot, a former top operator at Student Works who has since carved a successful career in various industries, including sales, marketing, and most recently, environmental sustainability in the plastics recycling sector. Jon shares insights from his journey, emphasizing the value of basic sales and marketing principles across different roles, from his early days in door-to-door sales to his pivotal role in procurement and sales in the plastics recycling industry. His story illustrates the importance of listening to and learning from industry professionals, as well as the impact of persistence and embracing new challenges for professional growth.

Jon's career trajectory is notable for its diversity, from working with the Montreal Canadiens in media planning and innovation to transitioning into the environmental sector with a focus on plastics recycling. This shift was driven by a combination of personal life changes and a growing interest in contributing positively to environmental sustainability. Jon highlights the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and the willingness to step into unfamiliar territories to drive both personal and professional development. His experience underscores the significance of understanding industry cycles, the power of networking, and the importance of seizing opportunities that align with one’s values and interests.

Chris and Jon also explore themes of mental health and work-life balance, with Jon advocating for the importance of self-care, physical activity, and seeking professional help when needed. He shares personal reflections on the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family life, especially during the pandemic, and how these experiences led him to prioritize his mental and physical well-being. Jon’s story is a testament to the idea that success is not only defined by professional achievements but also by the ability to maintain health and happiness. His journey from a young entrepreneur to a leader in environmental sustainability offers valuable lessons on resilience, adaptability, and the importance of aligning one’s career with their values and passions.

Enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• How listening to industry professionals and learning from them has been crucial throughout Jon's career.
• 
  
• 
  
• Jon's shift from a successful sales career to a role in environmental sustainability, the importance of being open to change and the value of continuous learning.
• 
  
• 
  
• How networking and building genuine relationships can open doors to unexpected and exciting career opportunities.
• 
  
• 
  
• The importance of taking care of one's mental health and finding a balance between work and personal life.
• 
  
• 
  
• The growing importance of sustainability in business operations, and how businesses can contribute positively to environmental sustainability.
• 
  
• 
  
• Jon's habit of being perpetually curious and willing to learn, and why it's a key driver of personal and professional growth.
• 
  
• 
  
• The importance of leading by example, inspiring others, and incorporating sustainability into leadership practices.
• 
  
• 
  
• And so much more…
• 
  

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris is joined by Fred Turcotte, a standout participant of the Student Works Management Program. Highlighting an extraordinary journey of growth, the episode unfolds Fred's transition from a rookie to a remarkable leader in the business world. Last year, Fred embarked on his entrepreneurial journey with Student Works, finishing as the third top rookie, a significant leap from $8,000 to $158,000 in revenue. This transformation underscores the pivotal role of passion, persistence, and embracing challenges in shaping young leaders. Fred's story is not just about financial success; it's a testament to the profound personal and professional development that the program fosters.

The episode explores the mechanics of Fred's success, revealing the strategies that catapulted his business forward. From the struggles of securing bookings with a low conversion rate to becoming a top operator, Fred's tale is one of resilience. He shares insights into overcoming obstacles such as the absence of a direct production manager and logistical challenges, attributing his breakthrough to heightened confidence and improved communication skills. These experiences illuminate the importance of persistence and adaptability in entrepreneurship. Fred's ability to navigate through difficulties and leverage his coach's guidance for a turnaround is particularly inspiring. It showcases the transformative impact of mentorship and the right mindset in achieving unprecedented growth.

Looking ahead, Fred discusses his ambitious plans for the future, aiming to expand his business further and break new records. He emphasizes the significance of building a supportive team, fostering leadership among his peers, and the invaluable lessons in leadership and communication acquired through his experiences. These skills, as Fred notes, are essential for his aspirations in business and real estate. The episode not only celebrates Fred's remarkable achievements but also serves as a motivational blueprint for young entrepreneurs. It encapsulates the essence of the Student Works Management Program in nurturing the leaders of tomorrow, highlighting the journey from potential to excellence through perseverance, strategic planning, and community support.

Enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The importance of not just being a leader but creating leaders within your organization.
• 
  
• 
  
• Fred's journey from struggling to book clients to becoming a top operator, highlighting resilience and adaptability as key traits for success.
• 
  
• 
  
• How passion plays a critical role in driving value and success, not just for the individual but for the entire team.
• 
  
• 
  
• Fred's experience with logistical challenges and how overcoming these obstacles contributed to his personal and professional growth.
• 
  
• 
  
• Setting ambitious goals and meticulously planning to achieve them.
• 
  
• 
  
• Building a supportive team and the benefits of a collaborative environment.
• 
  
• 
  
• Balancing business goals with academic pursuits through efficient time management and prioritization.
• 
  
• 
  
• Adapting business strategies and continuously striving for improvement, remaining flexible and always seeking growth.
• 
  
• 
  
• The value of learning from peers and using competition as a healthy motivator.
• 
  
• 
  
• And so much more…
• 
  

In today's episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris chats with Andy Geschi, one of our alumni, who is now a seasoned real estate broker with Re/Max in the Kitchener-Waterloo area. With over 25 years of experience, Andy shares his remarkable journey from his entrepreneurial beginnings, selling candy from his high school locker, to becoming a top-tier real estate professional and the important role our program played in this journey.

During the episode, Andy reflects on the pivotal role of Student Works in shaping his entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic. He delves into the valuable lessons learned during his early sales career, emphasizing the importance of accountability, adaptability, and perseverance.

Andy shares insights into his transition into real estate, highlighting the strategic planning and dedication required to establish a successful career. He discusses the parallels between running a franchise with Student Works and excelling as a real estate broker, emphasizing the significance of client-focused service and continuous self-improvement.

Throughout the conversation, Andy offers practical advice and invaluable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and emerging leaders. From the power of leading by example to the importance of work-life balance, Andy's story is a testament to the transformative power of dedication, integrity, and passion in achieving professional success.

Tune in to gain valuable insights and inspiration from Andy's journey, and discover the keys to unlocking your own path to success in the competitive world of real estate and entrepreneurship.Listen now and enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• About personal and professional growth through coaching and accountability.

Resources:

Student Works