The Future of Healthcare, Entrepreneurial Mindsets and Navigating Challenges

This episode of Trailblaze features Sabrina Fiorellino, a lawyer by background and entrepreneur at heart who has created several companies in her lifetime and has worked in mergers and acquisitions on Bay Street for years.

Sabrina is the CEO of Fero International, where she brought together several partners with backgrounds in construction, modular manufacturing and finance, pooling their expertise to pivot all of their existing businesses to create something in response to the pandemic. Sabrina sheds light on the main uses of Fero in the past two years and paints a vivid picture of its future over the next five years.

In this episode Sabrina shares the resilience and determination that shaped her entrepreneurial path through a compelling war story of facing challenges that almost led to calling it quits. The discussion explores the world of healthcare as Sabrina shares perspectives on the industry's challenges and opportunities. Learn about the evolving landscape of healthcare, especially with the integration of 5G and the increasing connectivity through technology like wearables and vital monitoring.

As a seasoned entrepreneur, Sabrina offers valuable advice for young professionals who are eager to launch their careers or start their first business. This episode offers a wealth of insights into the mind of someone working to shape the future of healthcare.

Connect with Sabrina Fiorellino

Fero International Website

LinkedIn

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Trailblaze is produced by CreatorClub. Create your podcast at https://creatorclubstudios.com. 

This episode was recorded on September 6, 2022.

Navigating the Unknown, Mental Toughness, Space Travel and Innovation 

This episode of Trailblaze features Chris Hadfield, a Canadian astronaut, business leader, and tech entrepreneur.  Having commanded the International Space Station and directed companies, he shares best practices and tactics on guiding teams through extreme circumstances of complexity and change, while also sharing the marvels and wonders of science and spaceflight.

Hadfield became the first Canadian to command the International Space Station (ISS) and has flown on multiple space missions. Known globally for his creative content on social media from space, Hadfield captivated the world with breathtaking photos, live Q&As, and a viral cover of David Bowie's "Space Oddity."

In this episode, Commander Hadfield shares his early inspirations that ignited his passion for space exploration and propelled him on a trajectory beyond the limits of Earth. He reveals the training, meticulous preparations and mental fortitude required for the numerous space missions he has been part of. From the unique challenges of space missions to the daily routine aboard the ISS, listen for a glimpse into the resilience and mindset needed to navigate the unforgiving environment of outer space.

Commander Hadfield discusses what it was like to share his experiences with the world by creating the first-ever music video in space, the inspiration behind his content creation and the joy of representing Canada on a global scale. In addition to music, he is also a 5-time best-selling author and global speaker on leadership, change and managing life. 

As a leading advocate for space exploration and science education post-retirement, he shares the projects that currently excites him and his role as an advisor to Canadian and international entrepreneurs, offering insights into the future of space exploration and beyond. In addition to now serving as a director and advisor to multiple tech companies including Space and Virgin Galactic, co-founding the Space Stream at Creative Destruction Lab (creating $1.6B of new business equity value in the past 5 years), he has also written 5 internationally bestselling books.

Listen to get a sense of the impact space travel has on health, both physical and psychological, as Commander Hadfield shares his personal experiences in preparing his body and mind for the challenges of space and recovering upon returning to Earth. 

Recorded in beautiful Muskoka, during this episode Anthony and Chris reflect on his health journey and impart wisdom on longevity, offering unique perspectives to challenge conventional thinking.

Today, Commander Hadfield continues to trailblaze as he extends his wisdom to those venturing into uncharted waters, advising individuals pursuing cutting-edge businesses, research and innovation. 

Connect with Chris Hadfield 

Chris Hadfield's Official Website

Twitter

Instagram

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Trailblaze is produced by CreatorClub. Create your podcast at https://creatorclubstudios.com. 

This episode was recorded on September 8, 2023.

Venture Capital, Empowering Canadian Entrepreneurs, Women in Business & Dragon’s Den

This episode of Trailblaze features Arlene Dickinson, Founder and Managing General Partner of District Ventures Capital and Co-Managing Partner at Believeco:Partners.

In this episode, hear Arlene’s story from her humble beginnings to becoming one of Canada's most successful entrepreneurs and investors. From joining Venture Communications in 1988 to owning the company within a decade, Dickinson shares the challenges faced personally and professionally in building a business empire.

Addressing the gender disparity in venture capital funding, she discusses the need for change and advocates for increased support for female founders.

As a Dragon on CBC’s Dragons' Den for 15 seasons, Arlene shares her experiences and insights into her most successful investments. Reflecting on her passion for Canada, Dickinson shares what the country represents to her and whether it remains the best place to start a business. 

She shares how she has built a business growth ecosystem focused on helping Canadian consumer goods companies scale and become global brands. Learn about the inspiration behind this vision and the unique niche in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry.

Under Arlene’s leadership, District Ventures Capital has established a portfolio of ground-breaking companies that are transforming the way we live and eat. Most recently Arlene became Co-Managing Partner at Believeco:Partners, an independent Canadian-based owner, operator, and builder of the foremost marketing communications, and engagement agencies in North America. It was Dickinson’s vision that brought this platform to life resulting in the creation of a powerhouse marketing consolidator. 

Connect with Arlene

Arlene Dickinson's Website

Instagram | LinkedIn

Book: Persuasion - Arlene Dickinson

Book: All In (2013)

Speaking: Arlene Dickinson on NSB

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Trailblaze is produced by CreatorClub. Create your podcast at https://creatorclubstudios.com. 

This episode was recorded on November 3, 2023. 

Mindset, Resilience, Exits and Entrepreneurship Education

This episode of Trailblaze features Reza Satchu, the Founder and Managing Partner at Alignvest Management Corporation, a Senior Lecturer at Harvard Business School, and the Founding Chairman of NEXT Canada. 

In this episode, Satchu shares the mindset that shaped his early career and laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial ventures.

Satchu discusses the consistent frameworks and strategies employed in co-founding, building, and managing various businesses. He describes the challenges he faced during these ventures and the resilience required to overcome obstacles, including the complexities of selling a business.

Having founded NEXT Canada, Satchu provides a deep dive into the mission of accelerating the growth trajectory of Canadian entrepreneurs, and the traits and qualities he looks for in entrepreneurs.

With a wealth of experience in working with entrepreneurs across diverse fields, Satchu shares common traits and mindsets found in successful individuals. Listen for insights into overcoming obstacles and self-doubt, and explore Satchu’s perspective on the productivity gap in Canadian entrepreneurship compared to the United States.

For aspiring entrepreneurs, Satchu imparts valuable advice, reflecting on lessons learned and common mistakes made by founders. 

Reza has received Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 Award, McGill University Annual Leadership Award and is a member of the Canadian Advisory Board for Harvard Business School.

Connect with Reza on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reza-satchu/ 

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For more about Anthony Lacavera and to subscribe to the mailing list visit https://anthonylacavera.com.

Trailblaze is produced by CreatorClub. Create your podcast at https://creatorclubstudios.com. 

This episode was recorded on September 8, 2023.

Michele Romanow's Journey, Overcoming Imposter Syndrome, and Navigating Success in Canada

This episode of Trailblaze features Michele Romanow, a Canadian tech entrepreneur, television personality, board director and venture capitalist. She co-founded Clearco, which has provided over 10,000 e-commerce businesses with $2.5B of working capital. She was been named as one of the Forbes Top 20 Most Disruptive "Millennials on a Mission" in 2013, one of the 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada in 2015, and Canadian Innovation Awards’ Angel Investor of the Year in 2018. Romanow joined the cast of CBC’s Dragons' Den in Season 10.

In this episode recorded in September 2022, we discuss the dynamic journey of Michele Romanow, a serial entrepreneur and one of Canada's most influential business leaders. From her early interest in business to founding Clearco (formerly Clearbanc), Michele shares the inspiring story of her entrepreneurial evolution.

As the youngest Dragon on Dragon's Den, Michele discusses imposter syndrome and offers valuable insights for those battling self-doubt. She shares her thoughts on being a role model for young Canadians and female founders and explores the changing landscape of entrepreneurship in Canada.

Michele dives into the resilience inherent in every entrepreneur's DNA, offering tips on handling adversity and managing stress during challenging times. She candidly reflects on moments of contemplating calling it quits and shares her experience navigating employee layoffs at Clearco.

The episode also explores the crucial role of mentors in an entrepreneur's journey and shares the impactful mentors in Michele's life. Balancing her roles as CEO, board director, Dragon and personal life, Michele talks about her daily routine and shares valuable tips for achieving work-life balance.

Michele also shares advice she would give her 18-year-old self, drawing from the wealth of experience she has gained throughout her remarkable career. Join us for an insightful and motivating conversation with a true trailblazer in Canadian entrepreneurship.

Connect with Michele Romanow

Facebook

Twitter

Instagram

LinkedIn

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Trailblaze is produced by CreatorClub. Create your podcast at https://creatorclubstudios.com. 

This episode was recorded on September 6, 2022.

Navigating Neurology, Alzheimer's Prevention, and Lifestyle Interventions

This episode of Trailblaze features Dr. Richard S. Isaacson who is the Founder of the Alzheimer’s Prevention Clinic at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian, the Director of Research at the Institute for Neurodegenerative Diseases in Florida, and the Director of the Precision Prevention Program Atria Institute New York / Palm Beach.

In this episode, we trace the origins of Dr. Isaacson’s medical and entrepreneurial career, from early aspirations to the specialized field of neurology, with a focus on Alzheimer's disease.

Isaacson shares the groundbreaking work taking place at the Alzheimer's Prevention Clinic as he sheds light on its unique approach compared to traditional methods. 

As a vocal advocate for lifestyle interventions to combat neurodegenerative diseases with a TED talk on the topic, he shares the most effective lifestyle changes and the simplest actions that the average person can take to improve their health in the long run.

We dive into stories of resilience from Dr. Isaacson’s career, as he shares significant hurdles faced in research and clinical work. He describes the moments when perseverance proved essential, shaping a career dedicated to understanding and combating neurological diseases.

Dr. Isaacson provides unique insights into the changing public perception of neurological diseases, and the role of media in spreading awareness and educating the public on health issues, particularly preventable diseases.

Dr. Richard S. Isaacson is a pioneering neurologist with a focus on the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer's disease. He is the Founder and Former Director of the Alzheimer's Prevention Clinic, a first-of-its-kind in the world, at Weill Cornell Medicine & New York Presbyterian, where he was also Assistant Dean of Faculty Development and Associate Professor of Neurology. Prior to this, Dr. Isaacson was Associate Professor of Clinical Neurology and Vice Chair for Education at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine. Dr. Isaacson has also previously served as Director of the Center for Brain Health at Florida Atlantic University Schmidt College of Medicine, and as Associate Medical Director of the Wien Center for Alzheimer’s Disease and Memory Disorders at Mount Sinai.

Connect with Dr. Richard Isaacson

FAU Center for Brain Health

Book: The Alzheimer's Prevention & Treatment Diet: Using Nutrition to Combat the Effects of Alzheimer’s Disease

Richard S. Isaacson Profile at Atria 

Meet Neurologist Dr. Richard Isaacson | NewYork-Presbyterian

CNN Opinion: Why aren't doctors telling patients these simple ways to reduce the risk of dementia?  

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This episode was recorded on September 8, 2023.
Trailblaze is produced by CreatorClub. Create your podcast at https://creatorclubstudios.com.

Trailblaze Season 2 is officially live!

My show highlights incredible people from my network with stories of resilience who share both business and personal challenges. Listen for lessons learned through the eyes of leaders who strive to challenge the status quo. 

This season's guests include Canadian VCs and Dragon’s Arlene Dickinson and Michele Romanow, educators Reza Satchu and Dr. Richard Isaacson, serial founder Sabrina Fiorellino, and astronaut Commander Chris Hadfield.

All episodes are now available at AnthonyLacavera.com/podcast. 

This episode features Anthony’s long-time business partner, Brice Scheschuk. Beginning with Brice’s early career — from joining a Naval Reserve and working in accounting and consulting, to eventually coming on-board with Globalive after meeting Anthony at a web industry event in 2003 — they discuss the highs and lows of building Globalive and bringing WIND Mobile to market. This discussion covers the characteristics of successful founders, and the importance of both having a mentor and eventually becoming one. Founders listening should look into MindFrame Connect, where they’re focused on creating more resilient entrepreneurs and improving the craft of mentorship.

Recorded February 2022

About Brice Scheschuk: Brice Scheschuk, CPA, CA is the Managing Partner of Globalive Capital. He was a co-founder and CFO of WIND Mobile as well as CEO of Globalive Communications. Brice has over 25 years’ experience building and operating companies at Globalive, WIND Mobile, Leitch Technology and PricewaterhouseCoopers. He obtained his CPA, CA designation at PricewaterhouseCoopers and B.Comm (Hon.) Finance from Dalhousie University. Brice served as a Maritime Surface Officer in the Royal Canadian Naval Reserve. Brice serves on numerous boards and advisory committees (public, private, and not-for-profit) and is a frequent speaker on scale-up entrepreneurship and innovation. He is a co-founder of MindFrame Connect, a not-for-profit focused on elevating the craft of mentorship and improving entrepreneurial resiliency. His interests include Canada’s innovation and startup ecosystem, entrepreneurial finance, mentorship excellence, resiliency, financial literacy, military veteran transition, fitness, travel, good food, good books and great friends.

Connect with Brice and MindFrame Connect:

Twitter: www.twitter.com/scheschuk 

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/brice-scheschuk-cpa-ca-095721a 

Mindframe Connect Website: www.mindframeconnect.com 

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Twitter: https://twitter.com/AnthonyLacavera

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For more about Anthony Lacavera and to subscribe to the mailing list visit https://anthonylacavera.com.

Trailblaze is produced by CreatorClub. Create your own podcast at https://creatorclubstudios.com.

From consumer electronics or artificial intelligence, this episode features a trusted voice in Canadian media. Amber Mac joins Anthony to share her journey from traditional media journalism to starting her own successful media company and producing content for some of the world's biggest brands. She discussed the struggles of starting her business, her most challenging moment in the industry, and why she returned to Canada after living and working in the US. Anthony and Amber also touch on Artificial Intelligence, its potential to shape the future in healthcare and its controversial position among society, as well as the Metaverse — where Amber says she would only invest in physical real estate.

Recorded April 2022

About Amber Mac: Amber Mac is President of AmberMac Media, Inc., an award-winning content development agency, an award-winning podcaster (This Is Mining, The AI Effect), and a bestselling author. She is also the co-host of the weekly emerging technology radio show and podcast #TheFeed on SiriusXM. In 2022, Amber joined the board of directors at GFI (TSXV: PEAS), a plant-based farm-to-fork food and ingredients company.

Connect with Amber:

Twitter: http://twitter.com/ambermac 

LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/ambermac 

Instagram: http://instagram.com/ambermac 

Amber Mac’s Website: http://ambermac.com 

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For more about Anthony Lacavera and to subscribe to the mailing list visit https://anthonylacavera.com.

Trailblaze is produced by CreatorClub. Create your own podcast at https://creatorclubstudios.com. 

 The inaugural episode of Trailblaze features Erin Bury, co-founder and CEO at estate planning startup Willful. Erin and Anthony discuss work-life balance (including running a startup as a married couple), sustaining a thriving business during the pandemic (and how Willful gave back by donating hundreds of thousands of dollars in wills for frontline healthcare workers), and the struggles of securing startup funding in Canada. Erin continues to trailblaze by simplifying and digitizing wills for all Canadians, while supporting important causes.

Recorded February 2022

About Erin Bury: Named one of Bay St. Bull’s Women of the Year, Erin Bury is one of Canada’s top female entrepreneurs, an active startup advisor, and a former marketer and technology journalist. Erin is the co-founder and CEO at online estate planning platform Willful, where she drives the company’s mission to make it easier for Canadians to prepare for and deal with death in a digital age. Willful has been named one of the Power 50 companies by Bay St. Bull (now Glory Professional), and Erin secured a deal for the company on TV’s Dragons’ Den in 2021. Erin advises multiple startups and is a board member for Save the Children Canada and the co-chair of the #Tech4SickKids initiative for SickKids Hospital.

Connect with Erin and Willful:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/erinbury 

Instagram: https://instagram.com/willfulwills 

Willful Website: https://www.willful.co 

Thank you for listening to Trailblaze!

Share your thoughts about this episode of Trailblaze on social media:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AnthonyLacavera

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For more about Anthony Lacavera and to subscribe to the mailing list visit https://anthonylacavera.com.

Trailblaze is produced by CreatorClub. Create your own podcast at https://creatorclubstudios.com.