Leaders Of Tomorrow Podcast

What happens when an average student with no clear direction takes a chance on running a business and discovers a passion for leadership and coaching?

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast, Chris Thomson speaks with Paul Prevost, an amazing participant in the Student Works Management Program. Paul shares how his journey began with self-development books during the pandemic and quickly turned into a life-changing experience through Student Works. From overcoming the fear of knocking on doors to running a $320,000 business while having four operators do over $500,000, Paul has transformed his mindset, skills, and vision for the future.

Paul opens up about the challenges of balancing school and business, the lessons he learned about organization and resilience, and why saying no and trusting his team became key to his growth. He also explains why caring for others is central to his leadership style and how setting clear intentions helps him drive meaningful results.

Ready to see how ordinary students become extraordinary leaders? Listen now and learn what it takes to turn uncertainty into success. Enjoy!

Key takeaways:

• How Student Works sparked Paul’s journey from uncertainty to entrepreneurship
• Why organization and time management are essential for success
• The surprising benefits of balancing school, sports, and business commitments
• How to overcome fear of rejection and build confidence through action
• Why trusting your team and saying no are crucial leadership skills
• How caring for others creates stronger, more successful teams
• The role of setting intentions in business, sales, and life
• Why top performers succeed when they stay motivated even when alone
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Paul Prevost is a successful participant in the Student Works Management Program. Starting as a student operator, he grew his business from $142,000 in his first year to $320,000 in his third, while leading a team of operators generating over $500,000.

Resources:

Student Works

Books Mentioned:

Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Leaders of Tomorrow podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

How do you go from running a student painting business to building and scaling global brands, launching innovative ventures, and investing in groundbreaking startups?

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast, Chris Thomson reconnects with Josh Campbell, a proud alumnus of the Student Works Management Program. Josh shares his remarkable career journey, from his early days in private equity and expanding Booster Juice across the U.S., to leading Starbucks’ Canadian expansion, scaling Saje Natural Wellness into a nationwide success, and venturing into cannabis, sustainable nutrition, and beyond.

Josh opens up about what he learned from both wins and failures, why humility and vision matter more than accolades, and how saying yes early in your career and not later on shapes your trajectory. This episode is packed with lessons on entrepreneurship, leadership, resilience, and the courage to chase opportunities that most people overlook.

Thinking about a career pivot? Learn how Josh Campbell reinvented himself from student entrepreneur to global brand leader and what you can take from his playbook. Enjoy!

Key takeaways:

• How to recognize when an industry or role doesn’t fit your true passions
• What Josh learned from scaling global brands like Starbucks and Saje
• Why he chose to invest in cannabis and sustainable nutrition despite skepticism
• How to think about failures, mistakes, and the “stupid tax” every entrepreneur pays
• The three areas Josh centers his life around to stay grounded and fulfilled
• Why humility and putting the team first define true leadership
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Josh Campbell is a serial entrepreneur, investor, and advisor with a track record of scaling businesses across industries. A graduate of the Student Works Management Program and Wilfrid Laurier University, Josh has held leadership roles in private equity, Starbucks, and Saje Natural Wellness, where he oversaw rapid nationwide expansion. He later served as President of Dosist, a cannabis wellness company, and now leads ventures in sustainable nutrition through his company Human Improvement. An early-stage investor and advisor, Josh continues to champion innovation, resilience, and leadership rooted in humility and impact.

Resources:

Student Works

Connect with Josh on LinkedIn

Buy Hi 

308 | Josh Campbell | How To Launch Cutting-Edge Businesses and Exploit The First-Mover Advantage

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Leaders of Tomorrow podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

How do you transform self-doubt into leadership and uncertainty into confidence? In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast, Chris Thomson speaks with Joanna Cao, who shares her inspiring journey through the Student Works Management Program.

Joanna shares how stepping into real-world responsibility transformed her perspective, built her confidence, and gave her the tools to achieve things she once thought were out of reach. From building strong teams to understanding the value of coaching, she reveals the lessons that turned uncertainty into possibility and struggle into growth.

This conversation shines a light on how the program develops not just business skills, but also leadership, resilience, and the mindset needed to succeed in life and in any career path you choose. 

Learn how Joanna Cao turned self-doubt into confidence and discover the steps you can take to strengthen your own leadership. Enjoy!

Key takeaways:

• How the Student Works Management Program opened new possibilities and opportunities for Joanna
• Why financial stability gave Joanna the freedom to plan for bigger life goals
• The role of coaching and mentorship in overcoming tough challenges
• The importance of building and valuing strong teams
• Why knowing your “why” is critical to pushing through adversity
• How the program shapes leaders beyond business, building consistency, confidence, and personal growth
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Joanna Cao is a standout operator in the Student Works Management Program who has grown her business year over year. She credits the program with not only transforming her professionally but also helping her grow personally as a leader and mentor. 

Resources:

Student Works

Connect with Joanna on LinkedIn

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Leaders of Tomorrow podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

What does it take to go from running a Student Works summer management job at university to leading high-performing teams across industries?

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris Thomson sits down with proud Student Works Management Program alumnus Bob Repovs, whose leadership journey began as a student entrepreneur and evolved into decades of executive experience. Bob shares how the lessons learned in the program, from managing people and projects to making tough calls, became the foundation for his leadership philosophy.

He discusses why putting people first is essential for long-term success, how to step back from day-to-day firefighting to focus on strategy, and the importance of surrounding yourself with leaders who push you to be better. From retaining top talent to making the tough calls when a fit isn’t right, Bob’s insights offer practical inspiration for anyone striving to lead with vision and purpose.

Whether you’re just starting your career or leading a large organization, this conversation will show you how the mindset and skills developed in the Student Works Management Program can serve you for life.

Enjoy!

Key takeaways:

• How the Student Works Management Program shaped Bob’s leadership style
• Why self-awareness is a critical leadership skill
• How to transition from hands-on management to strategic leadership
• Why surrounding yourself with talented leaders strengthens your team
• The importance of having the right people in the right seats
• How to retain top performers, while letting go of poor fits
• Ways to rise above daily firefighting and focus on long-term goals
• Why you’re never truly alone in your leadership challenges
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Bob Repovs is the President and CEO of Samco Machinery, a global leader in roll forming and metal processing equipment with operations in over 35 countries. A proud alumnus of the Student Works Management Program, Bob has over 20 years of international experience, including 14 years as CEO. He is committed to driving innovation, delivering engineer-to-order solutions, and leading through Samco’s P3 principles—People, Products, Passion. A member of TEC since 2002 and OG100 since 2016, Bob continues to foster valuable relationships, champion personal growth, and pursue Samco’s “Best in Class” vision.

Resources:

Student Works

Connect with Bob on LinkedIn

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Leaders of Tomorrow podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

What happens when two siblings challenge themselves to grow as leaders together?

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, host Chris Thomson sits down with Adriana and Cole Benoit, two exceptional student leaders who have thrived in the Student Works Management Program. What started as a summer job turned into a transformational journey of self-discovery, confidence, and leadership development.

Adriana opens up about how the program helped her overcome shyness, develop independence, and build lasting people skills that have shaped her both personally and professionally. Meanwhile, Cole shares the mindset shifts he experienced as a coach and operator, learning how to inspire accountability and scale a team of responsible leaders.

Together, they reflect on the personal growth, business lessons, and family support that fueled their success. If you’re considering the Student Works Program or want a deeper look at how it shapes young entrepreneurs, this episode offers an inspiring window into what’s possible when you commit to becoming your best self.

Enjoy!

Key takeaways

• How the Student Works Program builds confidence and independence
• How Adriana overcame shyness and started taking ownership of her life
• Why coaching others to take accountability is key to scaling a team
• The emotional and mental challenges of running a student business
• How leadership creates ripple effects year after year
• Why alignment between personal goals and team goals drives success
• Why Adriana and Cole feel more confident about their futures than ever before
• And much more...

Guest Bios:

Adriana grew up immersed in athletics, excelling in gymnastics, figure skating, and rugby, and developing leadership skills through coaching and camp counselling. At the University of Guelph, she joined the Varsity Cheerleading team and began working with Student Works, first as a window cleaner and later as a franchise manager. Over three years, she ran a successful business producing nearly $450,000 in revenue, employing over 40 students, and serving more than 750 clients. A top performer, she is transitioning into a Business Coach role in 2024 to mentor students in running their own businesses.

Cole is a dedicated Consumer Behaviour student at Western University with hands-on experience in sales, marketing, and management. Through the Student Works Management Program and other ventures, he has honed his skills in cold-calling, sales, client relations, recruitment, employee management, and project planning. Running his own service business continues to challenge and develop him professionally.

Resources:

Student Works

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Leaders of Tomorrow podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

How do you go from being a shy, technically minded student to owning a wedding photography business that shoots over 250 events a year? In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris Thomson speaks with Peter Bendevis, a Student Works Management Program alumnus whose story is a masterclass in personal transformation, entrepreneurial thinking, and taking bold risks early in life.

Peter opens up about his early struggles with confidence and communication—skills he began to develop through his experience as a Student Works operator. That foundation later empowered him to take on major business ventures, including purchasing a restaurant franchise while still in college and launching a full-time photography business.

In this conversation, Peter shares how he scaled his business through smart advertising, customer relationship management, and loss-leader strategies, and how working at a small accounting firm gave him hands-on exposure to entrepreneurial challenges across industries. From technical skills to leadership mindset, this episode offers powerful insights for anyone looking to take their career—and confidence—to the next level.

Enjoy!

Key takeaways

• Why Peter believes the Student Works program gave him the confidence to take major risks
• The importance of following up and asking for what you want
• How having multiple sources of income can create more opportunities
• What Peter learned working in small firms versus big companies
• Why accepting imperfection is essential to growth
• How combining technical and business skills can set you apart
• Peter’s perspective on humility and staying sharp as a leader
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Peter Bendevis, CPA, CA, is a Student Works Management Program alumnus and a partner at RLC LLP, with a background in accounting, entrepreneurship, and photography. After gaining deep experience at a small accountancy firm, Peter made a bold career shift to pursue his passion for photography full-time, successfully building a business that shoots hundreds of weddings annually. He is also a former restaurant franchise owner and a firm believer in balancing technical expertise with strategic business thinking. 

Resources:

Student Works

Peter’s LinkedIn

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Leaders of Tomorrow podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

What does it take to break through personal limitations and unlock your full leadership potential at a young age?

In this inspiring episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast, Chris Thomson sits down with Justin Huschilt and Ben Marysiuk, two high-performing young leaders who are thriving in the Student Works Management Program. Both Justin and Ben reflect on their transformational journeys as operators, highlighting how Student Works gave them the tools, mindset, and systems to push beyond fear, take full responsibility, and embrace growth at an accelerated pace.

You’ll hear how these ambitious young entrepreneurs leveraged the program’s proven recipe to not only run successful painting businesses but also to build life-changing confidence, integrity, and self-discipline. Whether it's sales, leadership, habits, or long-term vision, this conversation is packed with valuable insights for anyone striving to lead a better life and a better business.

If you're a young leader—or mentoring one—this conversation is your blueprint for leveling up. Learn how Justin and Ben rewired their mindset, built confidence through structure, and discovered the power of systems and self-leadership. Tune in to hear how they transformed fear into fuel. Enjoy!

Key takeaways

• Why Justin describes his first year as “the scariest yet most exciting” moment of his life
• The power of systems and mindset in consistently crushing sales goals
• How Student Works helped both guests improve their integrity and responsibility
• What Ben means when he says the program helped remove the limits of traditional career paths

• Why designing non-negotiable daily routines is crucial to sustained success
• How Justin and Ben are using the Student Works experience to envision bigger business goals beyond the program
• And much more...

Resources:

Student Works

Books:

Burn the Boats: Toss Plan B Overboard and Unleash Your Full Potential 

Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Leaders of Tomorrow podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

What if a summer management job could become the foundation for a global career? In this inspiring episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris Thomson sits down with Dan Desmarais, a standout alumnus of the Student Works Management Program, who has gone on to build a thriving virtual company that serves some of the world’s largest retailers.

Dan shares how his time with Student Works in 1989–90 helped him break free from unfulfilling hourly jobs and set him on a path of leadership, ownership, and strategic thinking. Listeners will hear how this early experience launched a successful corporate career at Procter & Gamble and JDA Software, and how Dan later transformed a crisis into opportunity by founding Cantactix Solutions Inc., a leader in retail space management.

From lessons in sales and team building to managing a fully virtual business and empowering employees through social impact, Dan offers practical wisdom for anyone ready to step into leadership and build something meaningful.

Enjoy!

Key takeaways

• How to build trust in a remote business and what to do when that trust breaks down
• Why letting someone fail—just enough—can be a valuable coaching strategy
• The importance of surrounding yourself with smart, capable people
• How Dan scaled his leadership by transferring his knowledge to others
• Why every employee at his company is encouraged to make a difference in their community
• Dan’s thoughts on building businesses around purpose, not just profit
• The mental habit all future leaders need to master
• And much more...

Guest Bio:

Dan Desmarais is the President of Cantactix Solutions Inc., a company that provides planogram automation and space management tools to major retailers across the globe. A proud alumnus of the Student Works Management Program (1989–90), Dan credits the experience with igniting his entrepreneurial journey. Before founding Cantactix, Dan held leadership roles at Procter & Gamble and JDA Software, where he gained deep expertise in sales, data analytics, and retail optimization. Today, he leads a fully virtual team of 35+ employees, combining strategic insight with a strong commitment to giving back.

Resources:

Student Works

Dan’s LinkedIn

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Leaders of Tomorrow 

podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

What does it take to grow from frustration and failure to focused leadership in just one year?

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris Thomson is joined by Louis Boivin and Joey Vari, two student entrepreneurs in the Student Works Management Program, who return for a second season with a powerful story of personal growth and business transformation.

Louis and Joey share how their first year in the program was defined by poor habits and lack of direction—and how those struggles laid the foundation for lasting change. They dive deep into the mindset shifts, daily routines, and planning strategies that helped them regain control and build a far more successful second season. This episode is a must-listen for any Student Works participant or aspiring young leader looking to take full ownership of their growth.

Loved this story of growth and grit? Subscribe to the podcast for more transformations from Student Works leaders and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. Enjoy!

Key takeaways

• What lessons Louis and Joey learned from a difficult first season in Student Works
• How daily habits, accountability, and planning set the foundation for improvement
• Why personal development and discipline go hand in hand with business success
• How consistency in areas like door-to-door work and scheduling creates long-term results
• Why shifting focus from personal performance to team success can lead to exponential results
• And much more...

Resources:

Student Works

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Leaders of Tomorrow 

podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.

What happens when two young entrepreneurs commit to becoming the best versions of themselves through structure, humility, and relentless effort?

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris Thomson sits down with Zach Weiler and Vincent D’Angelo, two returning operators in the Student Works Management Program. They reflect on their journeys from chaotic first seasons to running high-performing painting businesses—and the personal growth that fueled it.

You’ll hear Zach and Vincent unpack the mindset shifts that helped them mature into confident leaders, including how they approached their second and third years with a “rookie veteran” mentality, why they focused on inputs rather than outcomes, and how embracing mentorship and structure helped them thrive.

If you’re ready to shift from potential to performance, follow the show and dive into more growth stories like this one. This episode is an honest, energizing look at what happens when you lean into the process of becoming a leader, not just chasing goals.

Enjoy!

In This Episode You'll Learn:

• What Zach and Vincent learned during their first year in the Student Works Management Program
• How they embraced humility and continuous learning in year two and beyond
• The difference between chasing goals and focusing on high-quality inputs
• Why mentorship, structure, and accountability are essential to thriving in the program
• How they built strong marketing habits and leadership systems
• What it means to grow into someone capable of running a bigger business
• And much more...

Resources:

Student Works

Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Leaders of Tomorrow 

podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.