💡 What does it take to build a successful executive search firm while overcoming personal and professional adversity?

Samantha Bateman, founder of Integria Consulting, has spent two decades building a purpose‑driven business rooted in resilience, service, and second chances. Her journey began with hardship — being kicked out of her home young, working full‑time while completing a degree, and choosing entrepreneurship over the safe corporate path.

In this conversation, Sam reflects on the mindset that carried her through economic downturns, business struggles, and moments of uncertainty. She shares why helping marginalized and underemployed job seekers has become central to her mission, and how connection, persistence, and purpose have shaped her leadership.

Her story offers grounded lessons for entrepreneurs, recruiters, job seekers, and anyone navigating career challenges.

🔑 Topics Covered

00:00 Introduction to Samantha Bateman

02:04 From Growing Up in the West Island to 20 Years of Integria Consulting

03:57 Juggling Full-Time Work While Completing a University Degree

06:04 Saying No to the Easy Path & Building Her Own Way

10:24 What Fuels Sam’s Entrepreneurial Spirit?

14:10 The Origins of Integria Consulting

17:09 The Mindset of “It Has to Work, I Can’t Stop Until It Does”

20:52 The Role of a Spouse or Partner in Career Success

24:32 How a Political Science Degree Came in Handy in Business

26:45 The Turning Point When Integria Started to Gain Momentum

28:59 All It Takes Is Just One Person Willing to Take a Chance on You

32:40 Weathering the 2008–2010 Downturn as a Small Business

34:25 Sometimes People Just Need One Break to Change Their Lives

39:36 Empowering Marginalized Job Seekers & Underemployed Individuals

42:31 The Importance of Connection, Service & Purpose-Driven Leadership

47:39 Final Thoughts & Call to Action

🎯 Connect with Samantha Bateman

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

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