Leaders Of Tomorrow Podcast

In today's episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris chats with Andrew Thompson, one of our young leaders, an operator who, despite a slow start and financial setbacks, turned his business around and achieved a staggering $180,000 in sales by the end of the summer, complete with a well-deserved trip to Mexico.  Andrew dives into the details of the struggles he faced, highlighting the importance of belief in oneself, adherence to systems, and the power of coaching and hope.

He also talks about the pivotal role of mindset, recounting his own experiences of navigating a period of self-doubt and lack of focus before joining the program. Andrew emphasizes the significance of staying busy, staying active, and falling in love with the process, showcasing how these habits contributed to his success.

Listeners will find out the valuable lessons Andrew learned during his initial struggles, emphasizing the significance of faith, commitment, and embracing the learning curve. You will also learn about the impact of structured planning, the value of a reliable calendar, and the mindset shift that propelled him to surpass his business goals.

Listen now and enjoy the inspiring journey of Andrew Thompson as he shares valuable lessons and insights he got from our program!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The importance of overcoming challenges in business and believing in oneself.

Resources:

Student Works

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris is joined by two outstanding young entrepreneurs: Alexandra Buca and Chris Caruso. Both share their experiences as rookie operators in the competitive field of window cleaning and painting services, highlighting their remarkable early success. Alexandra, operating in Aylmer, has already booked $71,000 in painting services by March 4, while Chris, in London, secured $59,000 in window cleaning services. Their stories underscore the program's aim to foster ambitious, hardworking, and highly competitive individuals who are committed to being the best versions of themselves.

Throughout the episode, Alexandra and Chris discuss the personal growth and professional skills they've acquired through their involvement in the Student Works Management Program. They emphasize the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and the effective management of challenges and vulnerabilities. Alexandra shares her journey of overcoming the fear of rejection and the significance of maintaining a high work ethic, while Chris discusses his transformation from a negative mindset to one of resilience and self-confidence. Both attribute their success to the structured support and mentorship provided by the program, which has empowered them to navigate the complexities of running a business while still pursuing their academic goals.

They also reflect on the qualities that define a "leader of tomorrow." They envision leaders as individuals who embody adaptability, hard work, innovation, and a willingness to help others. Both Alexandra and Chris highlight the impact of the Student Works community in shaping their leadership skills and the invaluable lessons learned from peers and mentors. By sharing their experiences, challenges, and achievements, the episode not only celebrates the success of young entrepreneurs but also serves as a source of inspiration and guidance for aspiring leaders eager to make their mark in the world of business.

Enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The importance of always seeking new knowledge, skills, and challenges to innovate and advance career paths.
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• Alexandra and Chris' achievements in booking significant amounts of business early in their entrepreneurial journeys and the potential for success when combining hard work with effective training and mentorship.
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• Overcoming vulnerabilities and shifting mindsets towards positivity and resilience, and the importance of self-reflection and personal development in entrepreneurship.
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• The necessity of managing time effectively and maintaining a high work ethic.
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• Why adaptability is a major skill learned through the program, vital for navigating uncertain and challenging situations in any professional field.
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• The role of mentorship and the supportive community within the Student Works program, as well as the value of guidance and collaboration in achieving business success.
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• Alexandra and Chris' definition of a leader of tomorrow: someone who embodies adaptability, hard work, innovation, and a willingness to help others, inspiring positive change in society.
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• And so much more…
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In today's episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris chats with Jonathan Feist, an operator who worked with us just over a decade ago, a dynamic entrepreneur who has navigated diverse career paths with remarkable success. Jonathan shares insights from his journey, highlighting the importance of strategic career choices and embracing opportunities for growth.

Jonathan's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and strategic decision-making. From his early days at Student Works, where he honed his sales skills and developed a fearless attitude, to his ventures in the corporate world, Jonathan's trajectory has been marked by bold moves and calculated risks.

Listeners will find out how Jonathan's entrepreneurial spirit led him to invest in the restaurant industry during the challenging times of COVID-19. He recounts the journey of turning a risk into a triumph, as one of the restaurants he invested in was named the number one restaurant in Montreal and ranked 30th in Canada's top 100 restaurants.

Throughout the episode, Jonathan shares valuable lessons on the importance of networking, staying authentic, and prioritizing revenue-generating activities. He emphasizes the significance of challenging oneself and thinking outside the box to achieve success in both business and personal endeavors.

Listen now and discover the key habits and strategies that have propelled Jonathan to success in sales, entrepreneurship, and beyond!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The importance of strategic career choices and embracing growth opportunities.

Resources:

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris is joined by Austin Trudeau, a highly successful entrepreneur and a key figure at Rydel Roofing. The discussion revolves around Austin's journey from starting as a painter in 2016 to becoming a pivotal player in a business generating over $25 million in revenue. Austin shares his experiences and the growth he witnessed within Student Works, emphasizing the significant role of coaching and the collective effort in achieving monumental business success. His story illustrates the evolution from a hands-on role in painting to leading franchise development and coaching, showcasing the power of ambition, coaching, and strategic business development.

Throughout the episode, Austin and Chris explore the essential keys to unlocking business success, emphasizing that true leadership is not about the individual but about fostering the growth of others within the organization. Austin challenges the notion of the business being centered around the entrepreneur, advocating instead for a focus on team development and client satisfaction. His approach underlines the importance of humility and the willingness to share success with the team. He also discusses the critical balance between personal ambition and the collective goals of the business, stressing the need for a supportive and cooperative team environment to achieve substantial growth.

The conversation also touches upon the importance of systematization and adherence to proven business models in franchising. Austin speaks to the dangers of isolating oneself by trying to reinvent the wheel, instead encouraging openness and collaboration to improve and refine business processes. This approach not only benefits the individual franchise but also contributes to the overall strength and success of the franchise network.

Enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• Austin's journey from a painter in 2016 to leading a business with over $2.5 million in revenue.

Resources:

Rydel Roofing

Student Works

In today's episode of Leaders of Tomorrow, Chris chats with George Walsh, another outstanding member of our team. George is a third-year operator in St. John's, Newfoundland, and his journey from a painter to a successful operator is nothing short of inspiring.

During the episode, George reflects on his personal and professional growth, highlighting key lessons he took from our program that have translated into success not only in business but in various aspects of life. From time management and problem-solving skills to building confidence and delivering value, George shares valuable insights.

He also discusses the pivotal role of setting and achieving goals, emphasizing the importance of aligning individual and team objectives. 

Chris and George delve into the challenges George faced in his early years, the breakthroughs he experienced, and the strategies he implemented to overcome obstacles. George emphasizes the significance of building a strong team and implementing effective systems to streamline operations and reduce stress.

Listeners will find out about George's ambitious goals for the upcoming season, aiming to surpass $650,000 in revenue. He discusses the shift from being a PM to an operations manager, coaching and developing his team, and the importance of aligning goals within the organization.

Listen now and enjoy this insightful conversation with George Walsh, a true leader of tomorrow!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The role of goal-setting in achieving personal and professional success.

Resources:

Student Works

In today's episode of Leaders of Tomorrow, Chris chats with Saša Milosevic, an amazing operator of our program. Saša had previously joined us on Episode 276, sharing insights into his journey.

During the episode, Saša reflects on his impressive business growth, from running a successful Mexico-level operation in 2020 to expanding to two additional businesses, reaching a half-million and $535,000 in 2021. His ambitious goal for the current year is to achieve over a million dollars, positioning himself as a potential trailblazer in the program.

Saša dives into the pivotal moments that catalyzed his transition from significant progress to superstar success. He emphasizes the importance of continuous skill development, particularly in marketing, recruiting, and selling. 

Listeners will gain insights into Saša's transformative journey, discovering the mindset shifts and habits that propelled him to success. He shares the challenges he faced during pivotal moments, such as the leap from a $225,000 summer to a half-million-dollar season, revealing the strategies and mindset adjustments that fueled his remarkable progress.

The conversation delves into Saša's commitment to self-improvement through courses, including those from Tony Robbins. He elaborates on the influence of Robbins' teachings, particularly in challenging limiting beliefs, changing state, and embracing a bigger life.

As Saša prepares for his million-dollar goal, he shares his refined approach to sales, training, and leadership within his business. He outlines plans to invest heavily in his sales team's skill set and underscores the importance of profitability over mere revenue.

The episode concludes with Saša sharing key habits that have contributed to his success, including morning priming routines, cold exposure, and a gratitude practice. He emphasizes the value of being present, critical self-reflection, and a strong understanding of societal patterns.

Listen now and enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The crucial mindset shifts and habits that fueled Saša's journey to success.
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• The impact of intentional time management and choices on business performance.
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• Strategies for overcoming challenges and achieving significant business growth.
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• The role of continuous skill development and personal growth in entrepreneurial success.
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• Saša's future goals and the importance of being prepared for new endeavors.
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• And so much more…
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Resources:

Student Works

276 | Saša Milosevic | Raising Your Performance Bar with Student Works

Books:

Tools Of Titans: The Tactics, Routines, and Habits of Billionaires, Icons, and World-Class Performers

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris is joined by Frank Bourgault, a distinguished figure in the legal and business development spheres. Frank shares his journey from an undergraduate student, uncertain and inexperienced, to a visionary entrepreneur and legal expert. His story begins with humble origins as a painter with Student Works, a pivotal experience that laid the foundation for his future endeavors. Frank's transition from painting to becoming a key player in legal practices and real estate development showcases the impact of early career experiences on professional growth and the importance of embracing challenges outside one's comfort zone.

Throughout the episode, Frank dives into the intricacies of building a successful career in law, emphasizing the relentless pursuit of excellence, resilience in the face of setbacks, and the critical role of building meaningful relationships. His journey through law school, articling, and eventually becoming a partner at a prestigious law firm, exemplifies the dedication required to excel in the legal field. Frank's narrative is a testament to the value of hard work, strategic networking, and the courage to venture into new territories, underscoring his transition to a major role in a leading home-building company.

Frank's insights extend beyond his professional achievements, offering valuable lessons on personal development, the significance of consistent effort, and the power of setting realistic goals. His discussion with Chris not only highlights the potential for dynamic career paths but also inspires listeners to pursue their passions with conviction and adaptability. This episode is a compelling exploration of how embracing diverse experiences and maintaining a forward-thinking attitude can pave the way for extraordinary accomplishments in both personal and professional realms.

Enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• How Frank's initial work as a painter with Student Works set a solid foundation for his professional growth, offering lessons in hard work, commitment, and stepping out of one's comfort zone.
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• Insights into the journey of becoming a successful lawyer, from law school through articling to making partner.
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• The importance of resilience, strategic networking, and the continuous pursuit of excellence within the legal profession.
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• How building meaningful relationships throughout one's career can lead to significant opportunities, client retention, and the development of a successful practice.
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• How entrepreneurial skills from early business experiences can be invaluable in more traditional career paths, including law.
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• Frank's personal journey of transitioning from a partner at a law firm to a key role in a leading home-building company.
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• The power of consistency in professional life and the importance of setting realistic goals to build momentum and achieve long-term success.
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• How to develop emotional intelligence, including not taking things personally and handling criticism constructively.
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• The characteristics of tomorrow's leaders, and the need for a clear vision or goal and the determination to pursue it to its fullest.
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• And so much more…
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In today's episode of Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris Thomson interviews Wil Brawn, a young entrepreneur who had a remarkable journey in our program breaking the all time rookie record in his first year of business, doing over half a million dollars.Will has set a goal of achieving over a million dollars in his business this year, showcasing incredible habits, focus, and discipline.

During the episode, Wil shares insights into his unconventional path, from being diagnosed with ADHD to pursuing a rap career and navigating through setbacks. He discusses the pivotal moments that led him to focus on academics, excel in school, and eventually launch his own business.

Chris and Wil dive deep into the challenges of being a rookie operator, emphasizing the importance of hard work, dedication, and the valuable lessons gained from a season of intense learning. They also explore Wil's transition from being a top rookie to a seasoned entrepreneur, managing a team and building a successful painting business.

Listeners will find out about Wil's podcast venture, "Closers Only," where he interviews top operators and coaches, sharing valuable insights and best practices. 

You will also learn about Wil's plans for the upcoming season, including a shift to a coaching role, expanding his online presence through digital marketing, and his commitment to developing a high-performing team. His perspective on the entrepreneurial journey, personal development, and the exciting possibilities in today's world makes this episode a must-listen.

Enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The importance of hard work and dedication in achieving entrepreneurial goals.

Resources:

Student Works

Closers Only Podcast

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris is joined by Bruce Hodges, a seasoned entrepreneur and corporate leader with a remarkable career journey. Bruce shares his early experiences in the banking industry, leading to a pivotal role in the dot com era, where he successfully navigated the challenges and opportunities of a startup. He then transitioned into a 20-year tenure in the insurance industry, holding key positions like CIO, COO, and CEO in various global companies across Asia, Europe, and North America. Bruce's return to Canada marked a new phase in his career, driven by personal and family reasons, leading him to start Parachute, an innovative business aimed at transforming the predatory lending space.

Throughout the episode, Bruce explores the intricate details of his vast international experience, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, strategic planning, and ethical decision-making. He candidly discusses the pivotal moments in his career, including his decision to leave the corporate world and the challenges he faced. Bruce's journey is a testament to the value of resilience and adaptability in leadership, as he navigated diverse cultural and business environments, successfully leading teams and driving change in every role he undertook.

In the latter part of the episode, Bruce focuses on his latest venture, Parachute. He explains its mission to disrupt the predatory lending industry by offering financial care to those in need. Drawing on his personal experience with bankruptcy, Bruce emphasizes the significance of ethical business practices and the impact of financial decisions. His story is not only about professional success but also about personal growth, learning from failures, and using one's experiences to create positive change in the world.

Enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• How Bruce transitioned from the banking sector to the .com industry, and eventually to significant roles in the insurance industry across the globe.
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• Bruce's experiences in leading diverse teams across various countries.
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• Bruce's personal story of facing and overcoming adversity, including a challenging phase of bankruptcy. 
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• The importance of ethics in business decisions, as well as strategies for navigating the complex world of business while maintaining integrity and ethical standards.
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• How resilience and adaptability have been key to Bruce’s success, especially in dynamic and challenging environments.
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• The creation of 'Parachute', a venture aimed at transforming the predatory lending industry, and how personal experiences can lead to impactful business ideas.
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• The balance of risk-taking and opportunity-seizing in startups.
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• How continuous learning and improvement have played a role in Bruce’s career.
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• The importance of communication and negotiation skills in business success.
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• And so much more…
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In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris sits down with Keenan Taylor, who discusses his decision to take a year off between his third and fourth year of university to explore the workforce and travel. Currently in Halifax, he's been job hunting while enjoying travelling around Nova Scotia in an RV. They discuss Keenan's achievements in business, sales, and leadership skill, while he reflects on the importance of taking a break and the hard work he put into his studies and other activities.

Keenan shares insights from his experience in the Student Works program, highlighting the importance of time management, delegation, and leveraging teamwork for business growth. He contrasts his first and second years in the program, particularly the role of marketing, team management, and the power of networking. Chris and Keenan also discuss the challenges of balancing school with business responsibilities, especially during COVID-19, and how online classes helped him better manage his time.

Finally, Keenan and Chris talk about the critical aspects of entrepreneurship, such as self-care to avoid burnout, the necessity of grit and determination, and the value of taking calculated risks. Keenan stresses the importance of networking with other entrepreneurs for personal and professional growth.

Enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The value of taking breaks for personal development and clarity.