On this episode of the Sell Me This Podcast, host Keith Daser talks with Brandy Old and Craig Elias from Alberta Innovates about the real state of entrepreneurship in Canada and what it actually takes to build a viable business.

Brandy and Craig share their work as Technology Development Advisors, supporting founders through business coaching, commercialization guidance, and access to non-dilutive funding. They explain why product-market fit matters more than technical novelty, and how startups can avoid skipping the critical early steps that derail growth.

The conversation introduces practical frameworks like the Traction Canvas and the Slingshot approach, why founders often need to go backward before they can scale forward, and the importance of validating problems through real customer discovery. They also unpack smarter ways to build relationships, from enrolling people in conversations rather than selling to maintaining momentum through simple execution habits.

Whether you’re early in your startup journey or looking to pressure-test an idea before scaling, this episode offers clear guidance from two people working on the front lines of Canada’s innovation ecosystem.

Links to everything mentioned in the show:
https://helpastartupout.com/fridays/
https://helpastartupout.com/resources/
https://helpastartupout.com/3-year-financial-projections-templates/
https://helpastartupout.com/traction-canvas/

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If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
https://www.deliverdigital.ca/?utm_source=videodescription&utm_id=youtube

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

This episode of the Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
www.deliverdigital.ca

This episode of Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

On this episode of the Sell Me This Podcast, host Keith Daser talks with Meghan Donohoe and Alicia Wight, co-founders of Pebble, about rethinking leadership in a world that no longer fits traditional models.

They challenge the idea that leadership is about fixing problems and instead make the case for connection, reflection, and creating space for growth. Meghan and Alicia explain why leadership is non-linear, how the industrial-era mindset falls short today, and why meaningful connection matters more than content alone.

The conversation also explores the Pebble metaphor, the ABCDs of relearning leadership, and the importance of building space for wisdom, well-being, and curiosity. They unpack how leaders can move beyond burnout, embrace change, and lead with intention in environments shaped by constant uncertainty.

This episode is a thoughtful look at what modern leadership really requires, and why how we gather, connect, and reflect matters just as much as what we know.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
https://www.deliverdigital.ca/?utm_source=videodescription&utm_id=youtube

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

This episode of the Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
www.deliverdigital.ca

This episode of Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

On this episode of the Sell Me This Podcast, host Keith Daser talks with Philippe Burns, co-founder and host of Tech Thursday, a weekly community networking series for Canada’s tech ecosystem.

Philippe shares his journey from roles at SkipTheDishes and Neo Financial to spinning Tech Thursday out as an independent, for-profit entity that now serves Calgary, Winnipeg, Edmonton, and Ottawa. They discuss his unique "anti-goal" philosophy, why he prioritizes value-driven community events over gimmicks, and how corporate and startup collaboration can drive innovation.

The conversation also highlights Philippe’s work with The Patrol Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to men’s health and local philanthropy, and explores Calgary’s entrepreneurial culture, affordability, and quality of life as factors attracting talent and fostering growth.

Whether you’re building networks, growing a company, or exploring how community shapes the tech ecosystem, this episode offers insight into creating impact with purpose and authenticity.

Find Philippe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philippe-burns/

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
https://www.deliverdigital.ca/?utm_source=videodescription&utm_id=youtube

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

This episode of the Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
www.deliverdigital.ca

This episode of Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

On this episode of the Sell Me This Podcast, host Keith Daser talks with Margo Purcell, Co-founder and CEO of InceptionU, about how the tech and labor markets are changing in Calgary and beyond, and what that means for the future of work.

Margo shares why the economy is shifting away from pure technical knowledge toward metaskills like adaptability, critical thinking, and collaboration. She explains why learning how to learn is becoming the most valuable capability in a world shaped by rapid technological change and AI. The conversation also explores how easy access to tools like ChatGPT is changing what organizations value, placing greater importance on judgment, curiosity, and the quality of the questions people ask.

They also discuss the limits of the traditional industrial model of education, surprising insights into Gen Z’s relationship with change, and why cynicism toward existing systems can slow innovation. The episode closes with a look at Calgary’s entrepreneurial culture, its scrappy mindset, and how cross-industry collaboration is helping the city carve out a growing role in the tech ecosystem.

Whether you’re building teams, shaping learning programs, or navigating workforce change, this episode offers a thoughtful perspective on what skills really matter next.

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
www.deliverdigital.ca

This episode of Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

On this episode of the Sell Me This Podcast, host Keith Daser talks with Matt Riddel about the human side of sales and the importance of perspective in a performance-driven world.

Matt shares insights from his leadership coaching work on why sales professionals need to reflect on long-term growth, not just their most recent quarter or fiscal results. They explore how tying self-worth too closely to performance can undermine confidence, decision-making, and consistency, especially in high-pressure roles.

The conversation also looks at how top sellers build resilience, learn from both wins and losses, and develop a healthier relationship with success. It’s a thoughtful discussion for anyone in sales who wants to perform at a high level without letting the scoreboard define their value.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
https://www.deliverdigital.ca/?utm_source=videodescription&utm_id=youtube

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

This episode of the Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
www.deliverdigital.ca

This episode of Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

On this episode of the Sell Me This Podcast, host Keith Daser talks with Dr. Stella Lee. The conversation explores how organizations can build real AI literacy, why policy matters more than ever, and what it takes to prepare people for a future shaped by intelligent technology.

Dr. Lee breaks down the difference between understanding AI in theory and using it responsibly in practice. She shares insights on how schools, businesses, and governments can approach education and policy with clarity, intention, and long-term thinking. They also discuss how leaders can empower teams with the skills and confidence needed to work alongside AI in meaningful ways.

Whether you are designing learning programs, shaping policy, or navigating AI adoption inside your organization, this episode delivers a practical perspective from one of the field’s most trusted voices.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
https://www.deliverdigital.ca/?utm_source=videodescription&utm_id=youtube

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

This episode of the Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
www.deliverdigital.ca

This episode of Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

On this episode of the Sell Me This Podcast, host Keith Daser talks with Denise Baril, founder of The Grant Sherpa. The conversation explores the importance of community, the necessity of struggle, and the value of real human connection in both business and personal growth.

Denise shares stories from her journey supporting organizations through grants and funding opportunities, and explains why challenges often create the clarity and momentum leaders need. They also dig into how connection fuels resilience, and why strong communities are the backbone of meaningful progress.

Whether you are building a business, leading a team, or navigating a season of change, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how community and perseverance shape long-term success.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
https://www.deliverdigital.ca/?utm_source=videodescription&utm_id=youtube

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

This episode of the Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
www.deliverdigital.ca

This episode of Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

On this episode of the Sell Me This Podcast, host Keith Daser talks with Jose Costa and Mark Mandel from MHM for a practical conversation on compliance, ethics, and security for small and medium-sized businesses.

They break down what compliance really means beyond the checklists, how ethics play a role in every security decision, and why the right controls can protect both data and reputation. Jose and Mark also share actionable steps business owners can take to start securing their environments and building a stronger foundation for long-term resilience.

Whether you're a business leader, IT professional, or simply trying to make sense of the growing compliance landscape, this episode delivers clear insights on how to move from awareness to action.

Learn more about MHM here: https://www.mhmcpa.ca/

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
https://www.deliverdigital.ca/?utm_source=videodescription&utm_id=youtube

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

This episode of the Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
www.deliverdigital.ca

This episode of Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

On this episode of the Sell Me This Podcast, host Keith Daser talks with Tim Chan, co-founder of Untapped Energy. The conversation explores what it really means to build AI literacy and fluency inside organizations, and why so many teams struggle to move from experimentation to impact.

Tim shares why data remains the foundation of any effective AI strategy, how businesses can bridge the gap between curiosity and capability, and what leaders can do today to prepare their teams for an AI-driven future.

Whether you’re just starting to explore AI or shaping enterprise-level strategy, this episode offers practical insights on how to turn ambition into action—and build the right groundwork for what’s next.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
https://www.deliverdigital.ca/?utm_source=videodescription&utm_id=youtube

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

This episode of the Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
www.deliverdigital.ca

This episode of Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

In the first episode of Season 2 of the Sell Me This Podcast, host Keith Daser talks with Shawn Freeman. From starting and scaling organizations to navigating leadership challenges, Shawn shares what he’s learned from years of building teams and driving growth in a changing industry.

They discuss how the MSP model is evolving, what strong leadership looks like in today’s tech landscape, and how forward-thinking companies can adapt to new client expectations and technologies shaping the future of service delivery.

Whether you’re leading a growing business, mentoring others, or exploring what’s next for managed services, this episode offers grounded insights and a real-world perspective from someone who’s lived it.

Find Shawn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnfreeman-/

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships, connect with the team at:
https://www.deliverdigital.ca/?utm_source=videodescription&utm_id=youtube

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

This episode of the Sell Me This Podcast was filmed in the Social Launch Labs studio. SLL delivers top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com

Sell Me This Podcast is brought to you by the team at Deliver Digital, a Calgary-based consulting organization that guides progressive companies through the selection, implementation, and governance of key technology partnerships. Their work is transforming the technology solution and software provider landscape by helping organizations reduce costs and duplication, enhance vendor alignment, and establish sustainable operating models that empower digital progress.

If you believe you deserve more from your technology partnerships – connect with the team at:
www.deliverdigital.ca

This episode of Sell Me This Podcast was expertly edited, filmed, and produced by Laila Hobbs and Bretten Roissl of Social Launch Labs, who deliver top-tier storytelling and technical excellence. A special thanks to the entire team for their dedication to crafting compelling content that engages, connects, and inspires.

Find the team at Social Launch Labs at:
www.sociallaunchlabs.com