Startup Canada Podcast

Rick Spence
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Jan 13, 2026 • 44min

Trading the ER for Entrepreneurship: When Care Becomes the Mission with Dr. Laura Shoots

Tune in as Dr. Laura Shoots shares her inspiring transition from an ER doctor to the founder of Take Care, a platform revolutionizing how families prepare for medical and personal decisions.The post Trading the ER for Entrepreneurship: When Care Becomes the Mission with Dr. Laura Shoots first appeared on Startup Canada.
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Jan 6, 2026 • 56min

Navigating Acquisitions: Podcasts, Partnerships and Progress

In this episode, Amanda Cupido discusses her journey with Lead Podcasting and where it has grown to today. Amanda and Jennifer discuss the importance of relationships and share their acquisitions journey.  The post Navigating Acquisitions: Podcasts, Partnerships and Progress first appeared on Startup Canada.
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10 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 46min

Standing Out in Canadian Business with Rick Spence

This discussion dives into how entrepreneurs can shine in a crowded market. Rick Spence emphasizes networking and value creation as keys to standing out. He shares insights from his journey in journalism and highlights the vibrant spirit of small businesses versus large corporations. The conversation explores the evolving media landscape, encouraging responsible consumption. Plus, inspiring stories of underrepresented founders showcase the importance of diversity in entrepreneurship. Rick's final advice? Outperform local competitors by channeling passion and building strong relationships.
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Dec 9, 2025 • 45min

The Business Behind Better Dorm Rooms with Arlyne James

Arlyne James is the Founder of My Dorm Store, a nation wide solution for students arriving at university. In this episode, Arlyne highlights the importance of making university transitions easier and lessening the chaos of these transitions.The post The Business Behind Better Dorm Rooms with Arlyne James first appeared on Startup Canada.
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Dec 2, 2025 • 47min

The Story That Sparked a Purpose-Driven Brand with Kristyn Carriere

Kristyn Carriere, is the Co-Founder of Seven Summits Snacks. In this episode, she shares the poignant story behind her chocolate bars and how loss sparked a wave of ideas for a snack that supports active lifestyles, emphasizing balance and nutrition.The post The Story That Sparked a Purpose-Driven Brand with Kristyn Carriere first appeared on Startup Canada.
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Nov 25, 2025 • 44min

Sustainability on Set: Transforming Entertainment with Zena Harris

In this episode, we sit down with Zena Harris, Founder and President of GreenSpark Group, to explore how she’s transforming sustainability in the film and entertainment industry. From recycling foam spaceships on The X-Files to helping studios and national broadcasters embed sustainable practices, Zena shares what it really takes to change an entire industry from the inside. We dive into circularity, leadership, and why the future of entertainment depends on the choices being made behind the scenes.The post Sustainability on Set: Transforming Entertainment with Zena Harris first appeared on Startup Canada.
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Nov 18, 2025 • 52min

How Community and Storytelling Built Mabel’s Labels with Julie Cole

Julie Cole is the Co-Founder and Senior Director of Mabel’s Labels. In this episode, she shares her journey from being a lawyer to an entrepreneur. She discusses the early days of Mabel’s Labels, the evolution of their products, and the importance of storytelling in business. Julie emphasizes the significance of networking, managing expectations, and the value of flexibility in entrepreneurship.The post How Community and Storytelling Built Mabel’s Labels with Julie Cole first appeared on Startup Canada.
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Nov 11, 2025 • 34min

Made for Newfoundland Weather: The Mernini Origin Story with Maria Halfyard

Maria Halfyard is the Founder of the Canadian raincoat brand Mernini. Hear about how she identified a gap in the outerwear market to successfully launching her brand. Maria discusses the importance of problem-solving, adaptability, and customer feedback in building a business.The post Made for Newfoundland Weather: The Mernini Origin Story with Maria Halfyard first appeared on Startup Canada.
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Nov 4, 2025 • 29min

Advice on Building, Failing and Growing with Michele Romanow, Jenn Harper and Wes Hall

In this episode, we go backstage with our keynote speakers of the Startup Canada Tour; Michele Romanow,Co-Founder of Clearco and “Dragon” on CBC Dragon’s Den, Jenn Harper, Founder and CEO of Cheekbone Beauty, and Wes Hall, Founder and CEO of Kingsdale Advisors, and “Dragon” on CBC Dragon’s Den. Enjoy these intimate conversations hosted by Rick Spence.The post Advice on Building, Failing and Growing with Michele Romanow, Jenn Harper and Wes Hall first appeared on Startup Canada.
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Oct 28, 2025 • 38min

Reconnecting People, Places and Culture Through Plants with Shayla Chalifoux

Discover how Shayla is indigenizing plant spaces by incorporating native plants and Indigenous knowledge into urban landscapes. Learn about her mission to heal the land and reconnect communities with their cultural roots through sustainable stewardship and the power of native flora. Check out Shaylish Plants. The post Reconnecting People, Places and Culture Through Plants with Shayla Chalifoux first appeared on Startup Canada.

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