Passion for Impact

What if you could balance the needs of shareholders, customers, employees, and the environment while driving social impact? Discover the answer in our conversation with David Barach, a serial entrepreneur and philanthropist who has founded three successful companies and three nonprofits.

David's journey from a film and screenwriting student to a pioneer in the give-back sector offers a unique perspective on combining mission-driven work with innovative leadership. His passion for science fiction and its role in framing difficult topics adds an intriguing layer to his insights, highlighting the importance of empathy and perseverance.

Join us as David recounts his early career, leveraging his fascination with the early internet to create a pioneering online community platform in Washington DC. We'll also explore the emotional and professional rewards of this path, from the sale of his company to the impactful journey of his subsequent venture, Good Done Great. David's candid reflections on the emotional challenges of direct service and his self-awareness about the balance needed for sustainable impact are invaluable for anyone in the social impact space.

Discover the transition from founder to fractional executive and how David now helps other entrepreneurs close leadership gaps and achieve impactful success. He shares his wisdom on the differences between a fractional executive and a consultant, emphasizing the deeper impact a fractional executive can have.

David also reflects on the lessons learned from his career and their application to entrepreneurship and parenting, sharing heartfelt moments from his time as a stay-at-home dad to twin boys. Tune in for a wealth of insights on leadership, empathy, and the nuances of the human experience.

www.passionigniter.ca 

(00:01) Passion for Impact Leadership Interview

(00:01) Passion for Impact Leadership Interview

This chapter explores the inspiring journey of David Barish, a serial entrepreneur and philanthropist who has founded three successful companies and three nonprofits in the give-back sector. David shares his passion for social impact, emphasizing the importance of leadership that balances the needs of various stakeholders, including shareholders, customers, employees, the community, and the environment. We discuss his perspective on being a self-proclaimed "nerd," appreciating the value of science fiction and sciences in framing difficult topics and fostering innovation. David's candid insights provide a powerful testament to the significance of combining mission-driven work with effective leadership to create meaningful change.

(06:29) Journey to Social Impact Entrepreneurship

This chapter takes us on a journey through my early career as a social impact leader, starting from my education in film and screenwriting to my first job in nonprofit marketing. I discuss how I leveraged my fascination with the early internet to create an online community platform that remains in use today, connecting transient residents in Washington DC. I share my experiences partnering with Tom Yates and Laura Kittleman to pivot technology from John McCain's presidential campaign towards advocacy organizations, leading to the founding of Virtual Sprockets. We explore the emotional and professional rewards of amplifying the work of nonprofits through technology, and the subsequent sale of our company to a larger tech firm. I also touch on my self-awareness about the emotional challenges of direct service and the balance needed to sustain impactful work. Finally, I hint at my next venture, Good Done Great, aimed at enabling impactful philanthropy.

(23:19) Impactful Philanthropic Career Journey

This chapter explores the intricate and rewarding journey through the world of philanthropy, highlighting the interconnectedness of various roles and sectors. We discuss working with nonprofits, corporations, and directly with donors, showcasing the spectrum of impact made through different philanthropic avenues. We reflect on the profound personal and professional growth experienced by the people involved, emphasizing the passion and dedication driving their efforts. Additionally, we share the heartfelt moments of being a stay-at-home dad to twin boys, the special bond formed during that time, and the subsequent move to Canada via the startup visa program with Spring Accelerator.

(32:36) Closing Leadership Gaps for Impactful Success

This chapter explores the transition from being a founder to becoming a fractional executive. I share my journey of realizing that starting another company was no longer my goal and how I found fulfillment in helping other entrepreneurs as an interim executive. We discuss the differences between a fractional executive and a consultant, highlighting the deeper, more embedded impact a fractional executive can have within a company. I address the common gaps in leadership and skills that small and impact-driven companies often face and offer insights into how they can overcome these challenges by leveraging the strengths and expertise of a fractional executive.

(43:19) Wisdom From Career and Literature

This chapter explores the wisdom gained from a seasoned career and its application to both entrepreneurship and parenting. We reflect on the advice that long days and short years define both raising children and building a business, emphasizing the emotional and physical demands that come with each journey. Additionally, we discuss the Murderbot Diaries by Martha Wells, highlighting its unique perspective on autism through the lens of a cyborg character. This blend of personal insights and literary interests provides valuable takeaways on perseverance, empathy, and the nuances of human experience.

What motivates a leader to wake up each day with a mission to create lasting change? It’s an intriguing question…one that Rob Rudy shares his insights on! Rob is a powerhouse in strategic leadership, boasting over 30 years of experience across various industries. In this episode of Passion for Impact, Rob unpacks his journey from being a perpetual student of strategy and leadership to becoming a beacon of adaptability and career growth. Discover how his passion for impact leadership shapes his approach to engaging and empowering teams to exceed expectations while keeping the human element at the forefront of business.

Explore the transformative power of strategic planning in Rob’s narrative, as he highlights the pivotal role of having a clear mission, vision, and core values. Drawing from his early career missteps, Rob reveals how the lack of strategic clarity led to overwork and inefficiency. Through his experiences, he emphasizes how a robust strategic framework can streamline focus, enhance employee and client engagement, and foster a more productive and fulfilling business environment. His reflections are a masterclass in leveraging strategic planning for sustainable growth and organizational success.

We also dive into the intricate art of driving focus through strategic leadership and maintaining an optimal number of priorities. Rob shares his wisdom on the importance of regular strategic plan reviews and the delicate balance of receiving genuine feedback within a company. Fostering an open and transparent culture, he discusses the significance of leaders being receptive to all feedback to drive organizational growth. Alongside practical strategies for prioritizing tasks, Rob offers profound insights on recognizing readiness for change and ensuring alignment within leadership teams, leaving listeners with valuable lessons on navigating the complexities of modern business leadership.

LEARN MORE ABOUT ROB RUDY

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--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------

(0:00:02) - Passion for Impact

(0:13:56) - Strategic Planning for Business Growth

(0:18:57) - Driving Focus Through Strategic Leadership

(0:28:59) - Strategic Growth and Discipline

(0:38:16) - Leadership Wisdom and Strategy Insights

--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH SHORT KEY POINTS ---------

(0:00:02) - Passion for Impact

Impact leadership, adaptability, and empowering people for success in business and career growth across industries.

(0:13:56) - Strategic Planning for Business Growth

Strategic planning is crucial for organizational success, providing clarity, focus, and informed decision-making for growth and sustainability.

(0:18:57) - Driving Focus Through Strategic Leadership

Optimal number of priorities is three, with regular reviews and honest feedback, to avoid diluting focus and adapt to changes.

(0:28:59) - Strategic Growth and Discipline

Fostering open and transparent culture, receptive leaders, supportive environment, continuous learning, effective business operations.

(0:38:16) - Leadership Wisdom and Strategy Insights

Strategic planning, discipline, and leadership readiness are discussed, emphasizing the importance of alignment and communication within teams.

How do you achieve your goals without falling into the burnout trap of hustle culture? Discover the secrets from our guest, Sarah Kinlin, a professional leader and speaker who has skillfully balanced grit and grace to transform her life and career. Sarah shares her compelling journey from feeling stuck in a corporate job to hiring a coach, going back to school, and ultimately building a successful company while raising three children. Learn how adopting a mindset that things are allowed to be easy can lead to a state of flow and less stress, enabling you to live your best damn life!

This episode explores the balance between relentless motivation and self-care, crucial for entrepreneurs and leaders alike. We break down how overthinking and negative expectations can stifle progress, and why positive thinking, coupled with intentional living, can drive significant impact. Sarah offers valuable insights into the importance of articulating one's vision and effectively marketing diverse skills without succumbing to the pitfalls of hustle culture. The discussion also navigates the challenges of leadership and work-life integration, offering practical tools for fostering a transparent and growth-oriented organizational culture.

Tune in for Sarah’s personal anecdotes and actionable advice on embracing change, finding self-love, and making impactful decisions. Whether you're looking to leave a corporate job for a more fulfilling path or striving to balance your career with personal life, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical tools to inspire your journey. From Sarah’s coaching programs to her collaboration with Trisha's SPEAK+ Program, you’ll find numerous ways to ignite your passion and share your story, making a meaningful impact on others.

Don’t miss out on learning how to lead with care and effectiveness, all while maintaining a growth mindset and trying new things! 

ABOUT THE HOST

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Join me as I welcome the incredibly talented Amy Nicole Cohen, a mastermind in crafting experiences that leave a lasting impact. Our conversation explores Amy's unique approach to experiential events, where she infuses layers of engagement, from mini massages to build-your-own smoothie bars, energizing attendees and creating transformative experiences. Amy's charismatic presence and networking prowess are not just innate gifts; they are honed skills that she uses to empower others and foster communities through beautiful, educational, and impactful gatherings.

In this heartfelt discussion, we uncover Amy's inspiring entrepreneurial journey, tracing her roots from a small Manitoba town to the establishment of a successful makeup school business. Listen in as Amy shares how her passion for beauty and community played pivotal roles in guiding her professional path, emphasizing the importance of intuition, embracing new experiences, and aligning personal passions with professional pursuits. The story of the Chic Experience's launch highlights the significance of community and empowerment in shaping a fulfilling career.

Wrapping up our chat, we reflect on the broader impact of authenticity and community in building a lasting legacy. Amy imparts wisdom on the importance of staying true to oneself, collaborating with inspiring leaders, and being selective about who to share new ideas with. We also delve into the world of books, discussing influential reads like "The Power of Now" by Eckhart Tolle, emphasizing the profound effect literature can have on our personal and professional growth.

This episode is an inspiring blend of storytelling, wisdom, and the passion that drives us to lead with love in every aspect of life. Enjoy!

ABOUT THE HOST

www.passionigniter.ca 

(00:01) Passion for Impact

(00:01) Passion for Impact

This chapter welcomes Amy Nicole Cohen, an expert in creating impactful experiential events, retreats, and micro-conferences. I discuss with Amy her passion for using beauty, education, and community to bring happiness and confidence to people. We explore the concept of experiential events and how they incorporate multi-layered experiences to enhance traditional events, from mini massages to make-your-own smoothies, adding a dimension that leaves attendees energized. Amy's charisma and networking skills are highlighted as key factors in her ability to empower individuals and create memorable, transformative experiences.

(04:44) Journey of Passion and Purpose

This chapter uncovers the inspiring journey of a Canadian entrepreneur from her early beginnings in a small Manitoba town where she embraced the camaraderie and lessons of team sports, to earning a soccer scholarship that catalyzed her shift from paramedic studies to a business focus. We explore how her innate passion for beauty guided her academic projects, eventually leading to the establishment of a successful makeup school business. Her story demonstrates the importance of following one's intuition, the willingness to try new experiences, and how aligning personal passion with professional pursuits can shape a fulfilling career. Highlighting the significance of community and empowerment, she shares insights into the evolution of her business ventures, including the launch of the Chic Experience, and imparts wisdom on maintaining personal and professional alignment amidst life's twists and turns.

(15:33) Choosing What I Love

This chapter focuses on the importance of passion and choice in work, the dedication required when engaging in less enjoyable tasks like training new team members, and the significance of personal growth and knowledge gain through such experiences. I share insights into the intricacies of event planning, from selecting locations to the emotions and values infused into each event, emphasizing that even the most mundane tasks are undertaken with a vision of growth and connection. The discussion also covers the variety of events I organize, from intimate retreats to large-scale conferences, all with the intent to empower, develop, and elevate participants. Moreover, I reflect on the legacy I wish to leave, one that illustrates the joy my work brings and the collective success achieved by uplifting others along my journey.

(20:54) Building a Legacy Through Authenticity

This chapter examines the idea that true impact and legacy can be achieved by embracing community, living authentically, and contributing positively to the world around us. We discuss the importance of pursuing passion with purpose and joy, and how even small acts can create meaningful change. I share insights on building a supportive network by seeking out and collaborating with inspiring leaders within various communities, whether they be faith-based, sporting, or social. We also touch on the concept of organic success through staying true to oneself and the value of lifting others up. Reflecting on past experiences, we consider the benefits of being open to opportunities, continuously learning, and the necessity of rest. Lastly, we talk about carefully considering who to share new ideas with, protecting your vision until you're ready to fully share it with the world.

(31:24) Book Recommendations and Wisdom Insights

This chapter features a heartfelt discussion about the influential books in our lives, with a particular focus on Eckhart Tolle's "The Power of Now" and its impact when listened to as an audiobook. I share my love for various genres, from biographies and leadership books to fashion and beauty, emphasizing how my reading choices align with my current mood. Highlighting Joan Didion's profound work on loss and her captivating storytelling, I explore how books like "Blue Nights" have left a significant mark. We also touch upon the importance of reading in both personal and professional life, with personal anecdotes about family influences and the inspiring wisdom imparted by mentors, reminding us of the power of doing what we love. The conversation concludes with an encouraging message about leading with love and passion in all aspects of life.

Unlock the secrets to a more meaningful and profitable business with our latest episode featuring Deb Alcadinho, a powerhouse of social entrepreneurship. Deb invites us to reimagine the role of business in society as she shares her own path to creating Business for Social Good. Her story is not just one of triumph but a blueprint for embedding purpose in your profit-making endeavours. We discuss the symbiotic relationship between financial success and social impact, demonstrating that the two are not mutually exclusive but rather essential components of modern entrepreneurship.

When it comes to integrating personal values into your business, Deb’s insights are like finding a map to buried treasure. She walks us through the transformation of an ordinary accounting firm into a champion for ocean conservation, showing us that any business can become a force for positive change. This episode reveals the magnetic pull of authenticity and how it can attract clients, engage employees, and forge a lasting legacy. By weaving impact into your company’s culture, you're not just selling a service or product — you're inviting your audience to join an impactful story.

This dialogue with Deb Alcadinho is a masterclass in purpose-driven collaboration and the profound effects it can have on both the community and the corporate world. We dissect the challenges and opportunities of aligning your business strategy with a cause close to your heart. From utilizing network equity to volunteering and sharing wisdom, we uncover how to amplify your impact without relying solely on financial resources. Whether you are at the helm of a start-up or leading an established enterprise, this episode will inspire you to lead with purpose and harness the power of business to make a tangible difference in the world.

LISTEN HERE

LINKS TO ACCESS DEB + FREE DOWNLOADS

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--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH FULL SUMMARIES ---------

(0:00:02) - Passion for Impact in Business (11 Minutes)

This chapter, I welcome Deb Alcadinho, a serial entrepreneur and social impact expert, to share her journey and insights on creating a business that serves a greater purpose. We explore the idea that we are all born with a purpose and have the capacity to make the world a better place, emphasizing that the responsibility to address broad social issues should not fall on governments alone. Deb recounts her personal connection to the cause of ending violence against women and girls, and how this passion fueled her dedication across various sectors, leading to the creation of Business for Social Good. We discuss the importance of aligning business with social values and how profit with a purpose can be achieved through a conscious approach to entrepreneurship.

(0:10:57) - Embedding Impact in Business Culture (8 Minutes)

This chapter examines how service-based businesses can intertwine their work with environmental and social causes, using the example of an accounting firm passionate about ocean conservation. I explain how the firm aligned its mission with Sustainable Development Goal 14, providing specialized workshops for farmers and fishers to improve their financial sustainability, and partnering with Surfrider Foundation to amplify conservation efforts. We discuss the benefits of embedding a cause into a business's DNA, transitioning from traditional marketing to impact storytelling, and engaging both employees and the community in meaningful action. The firm's approach not only helps the environment but also strengthens their client relationships and overall business impact.

(0:19:10) - Exploring Purpose and Impact in Business (11 Minutes)

This chapter focuses on the significance of personal values and purpose in shaping the impact of a business. We explore the importance of aligning a company's mission with the business owner's individual beliefs and the causes they are passionate about, even if those issues are not directly related to their products or services. By identifying what truly matters to them on a personal level, business owners can find ways to integrate their convictions into their company's operations and contribute to their community or global issues, regardless of their financial situation. Additionally, we touch on the practical steps for businesses that may be struggling financially, emphasizing that impact isn't solely about monetary investment but can also be about leveraging one's time, network, and effort to support a chosen cause.

(0:29:50) - Purpose-Driven Business for Social Good (14 Minutes)

This chapter explores the transformative impact of aligning business with social causes, emphasizing that financial resources aren't always necessary to make a significant difference. We examine the concept of network equity and how leveraging relationships, volunteerism, and wisdom can benefit both the community and the business. I share insights on the importance of selecting an organization whose mission resonates deeply with one's own values and the potential pitfalls of a misalignment. The challenge presented is to initiate partnerships that go beyond simple donations, fostering a deep, purpose-driven collaboration. Additionally, we touch upon the hurdles of launching a business with a social good focus, including the initial doubts about market reception and the commitment to a deeper integration of purpose in business strategy.

Today, we have a true leadership luminary with us…Drew Dudley  is a renowned speaker, author, and leadership expert whose insights have transformed the way we think about leadership. With his captivating stories and thought-provoking ideas, Drew is about to take us on a journey through the heart of leadership, unraveling the mysteries, debunking the myths, and leaving us with a fresh perspective on what it truly means to lead.

While still a student he became heavily involved in Canada’s largest post-secondary charitable initiative in support of Cystic Fibrosis Canada, eventually serving as the National Chair of the organization. As he moved into his career, he took on the challenge of creating and building the Leadership Development Program at the University of Toronto, which became the largest and most dynamic in the country. He’s truly an Impact Maker.

Get ready to be inspired, motivated, and enlightened as Drew shares his wisdom, experiences, and his unique take on leadership. He is humble, deeply kind and a walking bomb of inspiration.

LINKS

httphttps://www.drewdudley.com/

hhttps://www.drewdudley.com/the-book/

ABOUT THE HOST

www.passionigniter.ca 

Join us as we explore the realm of impact leadership with James Grieves, a Certified Management Consultant and customer experience professional. James brings his extensive experience in working with First Nations communities, cooperatives, economic development, and empowerment initiatives to our discussion. He shares insights on the importance of understanding who is in your community and building relationships with them. That's IMPACT in action.

He passionately talks about his journey in nurturing community and providing mentorship. Listen in as he gives valuable tips on becoming a connector of people (he's one of the best!)  James’ passion for helping small businesses owners and entrepreneurs doesn't stop there. He continues to share stories of successful outcomes and how his product, Succession Ready, provides clients with clarity and a path forward. He emphasizes the importance of relationships to work and impact.

James shares his personal habits that foster a growth mindset. From connecting with new people each week to waking up early to seize the day, his dedication is inspiring. We discuss the importance of a personalized routine and his recent read, The Lego Story, a testament to sticking to one's values. Additionally, we explore how to be proactive in our communities and foster inclusivity for people of all backgrounds. We end the episode with a fascinating story of business transformation. Don't miss out on this engaging conversation with James Grieves. 

LINKS

https://www.catalyst-strategies.com/

https://successionready.ca/

ABOUT THE HOST

www.passionigniter.ca 

--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS WITH FULL SUMMARIES ---------

(0:00:02) - Impact Leadership, Power of Connection (8 Minutes)

James Grieves, a certified management consultant and certified customer experience professional, shares his experience in working with First Nations communities, cooperatives, economic development, and empowerment initiatives. He discusses his passion for learning and his ability to nurture community and serve mentorship. Finally, James provides tips on how to become a connector of people, emphasizing the importance of understanding who is in your community and building relationships with them.

(0:08:26) - Passion for Impact, Removing Blind Spots (10 Minutes)

We discuss his passion for helping small business owners and entrepreneurs build value in their businesses and reach meaningful and impactful outcomes. James shares stories of successes he's seen and how his product, Succession Ready, is providing clients with clarity and a path forward. We also discuss the importance of relationship to work and impact, the Succession Ready podcast, and the common blind spots businesses face.

(0:18:36) - Networking, Growth Mindset, and Personal Habits (6 Minutes)

James shares his habits for fostering a growth mindset, including connecting with one new person each week, reading with intention, taking courses, and getting up early. He starts his day at 430am to get a few tasks out of the way, take calls from Eastern clients, and get some reading and learning in. We discuss the importance of actively engineering a routine that works best for each individual. We also chat about his recent read, The Lego Story, and the importance of sticking to one's values.

(0:25:06) - Encouraging Proactivity and Business Transformation (11 Minutes)

We explore how to be more proactive and interactive in our communities, and how to foster a more inclusive environment for people of all ages and backgrounds. We also learn about the inspiring story of Andy Lee, a former first-year commerce student who has become a CPA and successful business owner. Lastly, we discuss the concept of business transformation and what it means.

FULL TRANSCRIPT AVAILABLE - email [email protected] 

Let’s Live by Design, Not Default. 

I LOVE THIS PHILOSOPHY!

And it’s this alignment that has me so excited for today's guest. Kate House is here and get ready to take notes. Kate helps women who desire change, to  ditch the personal growth overwhelm by providing focused, action-oriented resources that grow your self-confidence and  equip you to actually take action, and of course to give you permission to learn less so you can implement more. All while in community with other growth-minded women! Kate is a Health Coach. Podcast Host. Educator. Wife & Mama x2.

Living By Design, Not Default. This woman is full of energy and is creating immeasurable ripples of impact. Kate I want to be your friend! Can we hang out? I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did!

YOUR GIFT

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Do you work 5 days a week? Do you ever feel like there’s not enough time to do it all–to juggle work and life and everything in between? Are you actually productive for all five of the days you work? What would your life look like, and feel like, if you had one more day to get stuff done around the house, hang with the family and whatever else fills your energy and fulfillment cup? Could you actually get more done in 4 days than in five? 

Joe O’Connor is a driven and dynamic change maker and leader and he is here to talk all about the 4 day week--including the why, and how, to embrace this future of work framework. 

A little about Joe. He is the Director and Co-founder of the world's first Center of Excellence in Work Time Reduction— a new global initiative being launched in partnership with leading people-first transformation company Curium Solutions. Previously, as the CEO and global pilot program manager of 4 Day Week Global, Joe led the design and implementation of four-day week trials all over the world, supporting over 200 employers and 10,000 employees to make the transition to reduced-hour, productivity-focused working in 2022.  Learn more at: https://worktimereduction.com/national-program-canada/

In this insightful conversation Joe shares how we can change the norm and promote opportunity, wellness and productivity by reducing work hours.  Pretty cool stuff. Big impact too. Enjoy!

ABOUT THE HOST

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Dave, CEO of the social enterprise Rate My Agent, exemplifies Passion for Impact and he does it in a way that doesn’t ask for, or seeks, recognition, applause or validation. Dave is the founder of Rate-My-Agent.com, a review platform based in Canada. Rate My Agent matches buyers and sellers with the right agent. Dave believes in the vision to see how much good they can do through RMA and also believes businesses have the opportunity to lead by example. Social Responsibility is in their DNA and Rate My Agent pledges 50% of profit to worthy causes. Listen in to learn about how Dave infused social enterprise into the RMA business and how he has grown as a social entrepreneur himself. Visit www.rate-my-agent.com for more details on this amazing business.

ABOUT THE HOST

www.passionigniter.ca