🔥 Quick reflection from host Mark Bundang on the success of Season 1.

In this bonus clip from the Making Your Mark Podcast, Mark expresses gratitude to the incredible guests who made Season 1 possible and shares why their stories proved the concept of the show. With Season 1 complete, the podcast now has a foundation to grow into future episodes and seasons — built on resilience, leadership, and authentic career journeys.

📌 Discovery Optimization:

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🎙 What does it take to pivot from engineering to launching a manufacturing startup—during a global pandemic?

In this episode, Rob Bourbeau, co-founder of Do+Dare Undies Co., shares his entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of manufacturing in North America, and his experience on CBC’s Dragon’s Den. He takes us through the highs and lows of launching a bold new brand, the lessons learned about pivoting in business, and why entrepreneurship should serve a greater purpose beyond profit.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a small business owner, or someone curious about the reality of starting a product-based business, this episode is packed with insights, challenges, and inspiration.

🔑 Topics Covered:

00:00 Introduction to Rob Bourbeau & His Entrepreneurial Journey

02:11 Leaving Engineering for… Underwear?

06:01 Launching Do+Dare Undies Co. at the Start of COVID-19

10:21 Challenges of Starting a Manufacturing Business in Canada

14:28 Knowing When to Pivot in Business

17:11 Understanding Strengths & Weaknesses as an Entrepreneur

19:51 Manufacturing Dilemma: Produce Locally or Not?

24:14 Moving Forward from Sunk Costs

28:41 Dragon’s Den Experience: What Made It to TV

33:34 Passion Over Profit: The Heart of Entrepreneurship

35:50 Be Bold. Take Risks. Stay True to Yourself.

37:10 How to Connect with Rob

37:52 Rob’s Legacy: Challenges & Doing Right by the World

39:22 Closing & Call to Action

🎯 Connect with Rob Bourbeau & Do+Dare Undies Co.:

Shop Bold Underwear: https://doanddare.co/

Email: [email protected]

Discover more episodes of *Making Your Mark Podcast* with Mark Bundang — real career stories, growth strategies, and lessons from professionals across industries.

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🎙 What does it take to immigrate successfully and build a thriving career in Canada?

In this episode, Slava Pisanka shares his inspiring journey from Kazakhstan to Canada, overcoming challenges to become a top-tier ERP contractor and consultant. He outlines a step-by-step approach to immigration, career building, and networking strategies for newcomers, including how to break into ERP consulting, overcome employment barriers, and navigate the contractor business model.

Whether you're an immigrant seeking guidance or a professional interested in contracting and consulting, this episode is filled with real-world insights and practical advice.

🔑 Topics Covered:

00:00 Introduction to Slava Pisanka

02:03 Immigration Journey from Kazakhstan to Canada

06:15 ERP as a Career Pathway into Canada

09:18 Systematic Approach to Immigration

11:47 Building a Professional Network in a New Country

13:51 Overcoming Employment Barriers & Survival Stage

17:23 Importance of Having an Immigration Plan

20:21 Networking Strategies for Immigrants

23:54 Breaking Into ERP Contracting

29:15 Three Key Lessons in ERP Consulting

32:16 How Contracts Resemble a Sales Cycle

36:41 First Attempt at Starting a Business

40:51 Recovering from a Major Setback

42:25 Persistence & Pursuing a Dream

43:20 How to Connect with Slava

45:10 Closing & Call to Action

🎯 Connect with Slava Pisanka:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vpisanka/

Discover more episodes of *Making Your Mark Podcast* with Mark Bundang — real career stories, growth strategies, and lessons from professionals across industries.

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🎙 Is it possible to balance industry, academia, and a growing family while pursuing a PhD?

In this episode, Dr. Rafik Naccache, researcher and professor at Concordia University, shares his journey of navigating the worlds of science, industry, and academia. His story highlights the challenges and rewards of balancing career, research, and personal life while pursuing advanced studies.

Rafik discusses the risks of PhD research, transitioning from industry to academia, and his long-term vision for the future. Whether you're a student, aspiring researcher, or professional seeking motivation, this episode is filled with insights and inspiration on resilience, career growth, and higher education.

🔑 Topics Covered:

00:00 Introduction to Rafik’s Journey in Industry & Academia

02:46 Choosing Industry for the First 10 Years

05:10 Balancing Work, Study & Family Life

10:40 Pursuing a Master’s While Working Full-Time

12:20 Transitioning from Industry to a Full-Time PhD

16:45 Attraction to a Career in Research

20:41 Risks & Uncertainty of PhD Research

22:46 Research as a Jigsaw Puzzle

26:20 Handling Failure in the Research World

29:37 Postdoc Path: Academia vs. Industry

35:00 Achieving His Dream Career

36:49 Career Navigation Tips for Aspiring Researchers

39:59 Legacy Goals for the Next 20 Years

42:21 How to Connect with Dr. Rafik Naccache

43:15 Gratitude & Reflections

44:21 Closing & Call to Action

🎯 Connect with Dr. Rafik Naccache:

Concordia University Profile: https://www.concordia.ca/faculty/rafik-naccache.html

Email: [email protected]

Discover more episodes of *Making Your Mark Podcast* with Mark Bundang — real career stories, growth strategies, and lessons from professionals across industries.

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🎙 How can we make meaningful change in the non-profit sector?

In this episode, Sam Watts, CEO of Welcome Hall Mission and author of *Good Work Done Better*, shares his insights on leadership, purpose-driven work, and the future of non-profits. He takes us through pivotal moments that led him from the private sector to non-profit leadership, including a life-changing experience in South Africa that reshaped his outlook on service and impact.

Sam also explains why the non-profit sector is ripe for disruption, offering practical strategies for professionals looking to drive meaningful change. Whether you’re passionate about purpose-driven work, leadership, or social impact, this episode is packed with valuable lessons for professionals in the non-profit sector and beyond.

🔑 Topics Covered:

00:00 Introduction to Sam Watts & Welcome Hall Mission

03:18 Transitioning from the Private to Non-Profit Sector

08:30 A Pivotal Moment in South Africa (2007)

13:13 Four Key Takeaways from the Robben Island Experience

16:06 Renewed Sense of Purpose Through Unique Experience

19:15 Leadership is About Serving, Not Privilege

25:39 Managing & Negotiating Reality with a Difficult Boss

28:08 Good Work Done Better: Sam’s Book on Non-Profit Innovation

33:37 Why the Non-Profit Model is Ripe for Disruption

37:09 Final Advice: Curiosity Keeps You Interesting & Up-to-Date

38:56 How to Reach Sam Watts

39:51 Mark’s Gratitude for Sam’s Wisdom

40:59 Closing & Call to Action

🎯 Connect with Sam Watts & Welcome Hall Mission:

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://welcomehallmission.com/contact-us/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@whmba

Discover more episodes of *Making Your Mark Podcast* with Mark Bundang — real career stories, growth strategies, and lessons from professionals across industries.

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🎙 How do you develop executive presence and accelerate your career?

In this episode, Olivia Dufour shares her bold journey into the executive and C-Suite world, breaking down how intentionality, confidence, and alliance-building helped her rise quickly into leadership roles. She reveals how executive presence is not just for executives, but a skill every professional can cultivate to influence, lead, and grow strategically.

Whether you’re an aspiring leader, a professional looking to enhance your presence, or someone interested in networking and career advancement, this episode is filled with actionable insights on leadership, influence, and career growth.

🔑 Topics Covered:

00:00 Introduction & Olivia’s Background

02:21 Being Bold & Intentional in Career Growth

04:49 Executive Presence is for Everyone

09:11 Understanding Executives Have the Same Worries

12:59 What is Executive Presence Beyond Business?

15:32 Effort Required to Build Executive Presence

16:56 Continuous Self-Improvement & Feedback

18:12 Supporting Millennials & Gen Z

22:07 The True Meaning of Giving Access

23:32 Networking vs. Alliance Building

26:34 Learning Strategic Alliance Building

29:08 Encouraging Win-Win Mindsets

32:53 Placing Yourself in Uncomfortable Situations

39:28 Lifting Others Towards Opportunity

41:28 Closing & Call to Action

🎯 Connect with Olivia Dufour:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/-olivia-dufour/

Discover more episodes of *Making Your Mark Podcast* with Mark Bundang — real career stories, growth strategies, and lessons from professionals across industries.

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🎙 How does curiosity drive success in research and academia?

In this episode, Dr. Muthucumaru Maheswaran, Professor of Computer Science at McGill University, shares his inspiring journey from Sri Lanka to becoming a pioneering researcher in computer science. His story highlights resilience, lifelong learning, and the pursuit of passion — from overcoming challenges in Sri Lanka’s competitive education system to discovering computers and shaping a career in research.

Whether you're a student, aspiring researcher, or professional seeking motivation, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable insights to fuel your journey.

🔑 Topics Covered:

00:00 Introduction to Prof. Maheswaran & His Research at McGill

01:21 Overcoming the Competitive University Admission Process in Sri Lanka

07:11 Turning Disadvantages into Competitive Advantages

13:58 Living Through the 1983 Race Riots in Sri Lanka

18:27 Maintaining a Positive Outlook Amidst Challenges

22:44 The Importance of Family & Finding Happiness in Tough Times

25:29 How Discovering Computers Changed His Career Path

27:59 Opportunity vs. Passion: Why We Do What We Do

28:38 Key Advice: Curiosity Fuels Passion & Helps Overcome Challenges

31:38 How to Reach Dr. Maheswaran

32:26 Closing & Call to Action

🎯 Connect with Prof. Muthucumaru Maheswaran:

McGill University Profile: https://www.cs.mcgill.ca/~maheswar/

Email: [email protected]

Discover more episodes of *Making Your Mark Podcast* with Mark Bundang — real career stories, growth strategies, and lessons from professionals across industries.

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🎙 How do you build a career that leaves a lasting legacy?

In this episode, Minh Josefsson shares his journey in business transformation, highlighting the importance of networking, strategic career moves, and building a strong professional reputation. He reveals how multicultural experiences, preparation, and resilience helped him overcome hiring challenges, win competitive interviews, and step into pivotal leadership roles.

Whether you’re a fresh graduate preparing for job interviews, an experienced professional seeking career growth, or a leader navigating transformation, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice to help you advance with confidence.

🔑 Topics Covered:

00:00 Introduction & Minh’s Background

01:08 Career in Business Transformation

02:46 Role of Multicultural Experiences

06:06 Overcoming Hiring Challenges

10:36 Pre-Work & Relationships as Interview Advantage

13:32 Why Introverts Need Extra Preparation

14:44 Training Experience That Shaped His Career

15:52 The Next Challenge: Joining Aeroplan

18:27 First Rule of Business Transformation: Understanding Change

21:37 Transition from Aeroplan (Montreal) to Banking (Toronto)

23:40 Searching for the Next Mountain to Climb

25:56 Legacy & Networking for Opportunities

29:01 Key to Career Growth: Learning, Giving & Receiving

31:22 Final Takeaways & Contact Information

32:44 Closing & Call to Action

🎯 Connect with Minh Josefsson:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/minhjosefsson/

Discover more episodes of *Making Your Mark Podcast* with Mark Bundang — real career stories, growth strategies, and lessons from professionals across industries.

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🎙 How do you know when it’s time for a career change?

In this episode, Hannah Flostrand shares her journey of trusting her instincts and making bold career transitions. Her story highlights how listening to your gut, embracing curiosity, and leveraging your network can lead to unexpected and fulfilling opportunities.

Many professionals feel stuck in paths that don’t align with their values, skills, or passions. Hannah’s experience offers actionable insights and expert advice for anyone considering a career pivot or wondering how to take the next step with confidence.

🔑 Topics Covered:

00:00 Introduction & Hannah’s Background

02:11 The Non-Linear Nature of Career Paths

04:45 Trusting Your Instincts When Making a Change

07:32 Leveraging Curiosity to Assist Others

10:21 The Power of Networking in Career Transitions

14:09 Recognizing When It’s Time for a Career Pivot

17:36 Balancing Personal & Professional Life During Transitions

21:12 Learning & Adapting Along the Way

26:05 Final Takeaways: Trusting Yourself & Embracing Growth

30:19 How to Connect with Hannah Flostrand

32:41 Closing & Call to Action

🎯 Connect with Hannah Flostrand:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahflostrand/

Discover more episodes of *Making Your Mark Podcast* with Mark Bundang — real career stories, growth strategies, and lessons from professionals across industries.

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🎙 How do you go from a junior IT role to leading in cybersecurity?

In this episode, Shah Chaudhry shares his decade-long journey of perseverance, continuous learning, and overcoming obstacles to land a coveted lead role in cybersecurity. He reveals how real-world experience, hands-on learning, and an unstoppable drive helped him transform an entry-level IT job into a fulfilling career in tech leadership.

Whether you’re starting in cybersecurity, IT, or any professional field, this episode is packed with career advice, growth mindset strategies, and industry insights to help you reach the next level.

🔑 Topics Covered:

00:00 Introduction & Shah’s Background

02:45 Path to a Lead Role in Cybersecurity

05:03 What to Do When You Can’t Get There Directly

08:00 Mastering Your Craft & Reaching Your Goals

10:57 Motivation to Build a Career in Cybersecurity

13:32 Serving Others & Building a Legacy

17:33 What It Feels Like to Finally "Make It"

20:53 First Big Break in Cybersecurity

23:19 Why Continuous Learning is Essential

25:50 Integrating Cybersecurity into IT Roles

28:25 “I Completed the Project… But Is It Secure?”

30:52 Humility & Winning Over Difficult Clients

33:53 Key Takeaway: Never Stop Learning

35:50 Closing & Contact Info

🎯 Connect with Shah Chaudhry:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shah-chaudhry-3aa53253/

Discover more episodes of *Making Your Mark Podcast* with Mark Bundang — real career stories, growth strategies, and lessons from professionals across industries.

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