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Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas - the Rainforest podcast showcases those who are contributing to and / or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Rainforest Alberta is a world-class community of dreamers and doers, connected by a common goal of making Alberta fertile ground for building, developing, and growing innovative ideas into sustainable ventures. https://rainforestab.ca
Episodes
Tuesday Sep 05, 2023
Tuesday Sep 05, 2023
The LIBI podcast BIPOC series celebrates BIPOC founders in the YYC Tech Ecosystem. This episode features Ranique McLaughlin - A social entrepreneur, creative and Founder of Hidden Gemz. We discuss what inspired Ranique to pursue her school project as a solo entrepreneur and turn it into Hidden Gemz. Ranique walks us through her journey as a solo founder, at such a young age, and with the knowledge that, as a Black Woman, she's not likely to get the same opportunities. You'll get to hear about the challenges that have made Ranique into the resilient founder that she is and Ranique was kind enough to share with us a few hiring grants that are available to small business owners.
Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.
Host: Uriel Karerwa is a Program Manager at IncluCity Calgary, an organization devoted to the inclusion of diverse and underrepresented voices in the design of technology. With a background in neuroscience, Uriel has been coordinating community events and working with neurodiverse groups in Lethbridge; and has spoken on the topic of atypical neurology on the TEDx stage! Uriel is always exploring opportunities to impact communities in areas like I.D.E.A., Social Innovation, and Sustainability.
Guest: Ranique McLaughlin is a woman in tech and the Founder of Hidden Gemz. She also really likes to draw, write stories and find new places to share with friends.
Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.
Show Links:
Show Quotes:
"A great way to make a difference and to give back is through Mentorship. Guidance that gives people the space to learn and develop skills. We need mentors that can help students develop. I'm always looking for guidance and leadership, I'm sure there are many people in the same boat."
Credits...
This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine
Episode Music: Tony Del Degan
Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan
Tuesday Aug 29, 2023
Tuesday Aug 29, 2023
Join me and my old friend from junior high school, Michael Dargie for a fun discussion on creativity and innovation, talking about things as diverse as the TRS-80 Color Computer from back in the 80's through to Improv at Loose Moose Theatre, and playing with Nerf dart guns in Virtual Reality.
Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.
Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry.
Guest: Michael Dargie is a true wordsmith, a guardian of language who valiantly champions the cause of every single word, leaving none abandoned.
As the CEO and self-proclaimed 'Creative Zealot' at Make More Creative, a thriving brand intelligence agency nestled in Calgary, [person-name] orchestrates a symphony of creativity. Beyond the boardroom, they're an integral member of The Loose Moose Theatre, infusing their creative spirit into every performance.
But the narrative doesn't end there. This visionary mind is also the architect behind the ingenious BrandJitsu™ methodology. Not content with just that, they're a co-founder of the whimsical AI-powered food blog, TheKitchen.ai, and a co-creator of the enigmatic Fightclub for Entrepreneurs. A role as a speaker and mentor for the Canadian Trade Accelerator Program through Calgary Economic Development adds yet another layer to their multifaceted persona. And just to add a dash of daring, they're a seasoned expert when it comes to maneuvering motorcycles.
Whether it's an intimate tête-à-tête, a close-knit gathering, or a grand theater, [person-name] strives to kindle the flames of extraordinary living. Their mission: to inspire a departure from the mundane, to nurture unconventional thinking, and to craft narratives using the brushstrokes of creativity. Throughout their illustrious journey, they've collaborated with artists, entrepreneurs, local ventures, and even corporate giants across the globe. Together, they orchestrate the symphony of words and ideas, creating harmonious resonance.
Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.
Show Links:
- Make More Creative
- Pierson's Funeral Home
- Dropbear & Panda
- Loose Moose Theatre
- TRS-80 CGP-115 Color Graphic Printer
- Meta - Oculus Pro
- Wakefield Brewster - Poetic VR Experience
- REMIO VA
- Brayden - Chaos Inc
- Commander Chris Hatfield
- TheKitchen.ai with Keegan Dargie
- Rebel Rebel Podcast
Show Quotes:
"If you have a choice, always start positive."
"the thing that's standing out more and more to me lately is people that are just being there, and being truthful."
Credits...
This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine
Episode Music: Tony Del Degan
Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan
Tuesday Aug 22, 2023
Tuesday Aug 22, 2023
The LIBI podcast BIPOC series celebrates BIPOC founders in the YYC tech Ecosystem. This episode highlights the story of Jerome Morgan, the associate Director at Innovates Calgary. we discuss what it takes the diversify the Ecosystem as well as discuss important concepts such as Equity and Representation.
Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.
Host: Uriel Karerwa is a Program Manager at IncluCity Calgary, an organization devoted to the inclusion of diverse and underrepresented voices in the design of technology. With a background in neuroscience, Uriel has been coordinating community events and working with neurodiverse groups in Lethbridge; and has spoken on the topic of atypical neurology on the TEDx stage! Uriel is always exploring opportunities to impact communities in areas like I.D.E.A., Social Innovation, and Sustainability.
Guest: Jerome Morgan Experienced leader with a demonstrated history of working with diverse stakeholders in private, government and non- profit sector. Skilled in innovation, complexity thinking, systems change and Community Health. Strong business communicator. Entrepreneurial leader working to achieve economic and social impact. Post Graduate Certificate focused in Organizational Leadership, Innovation and Complex Systems from Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity in partnership with Suncor Foundation and University of Waterloo.
Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.
Show Links:
Show Quotes:
"BIPOC founders want to be part of [the ecosystem], and we want to be celebrated within it. It's not just about celebrating the founders, it's about celebrating the communities that make up the larger ecosystem."
Credits...
This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine
Episode Music: Tony Del Degan
Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan
Tuesday Aug 15, 2023
Tuesday Aug 15, 2023
Mike and Gray explore the world of Employee Ideation Funnels and why they may not be the BEST tool to start your innovation program with!
Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.
Host: Mike Procee is an entrepreneur, facilitator, innovator and problem solver. Working in the Calgary Energy Sector, Mike strives to build the innovation ecosystem and community. From his volunteer position on the Strategic Capability Network, where he founded the Calgary Innovation Peer Forum, to pursuing his DBA in Winter 2024, focused on innovation, Mike is pushing the thinking on what it means to be a corporate innovation practitioner.
Guest: Gray Somerville is a serial entrepreneur and innovation expert who has co-founded three successful startups; helped dozens of organizations design, implement, and manage innovation programs; and was the principal designer of the frameworks, processes, and training materials that undergird the LaunchPath innovation management platform. Helping organizations and individuals achieve their full potential through proactive, systematic innovation is Gray’s passion, vocation, and sport.
Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.
Show Links:
Show Quotes:
"The success of your innovation program does not depend upon ideas, it depends on innovators"
"In many cases, the big creative idea happens deep in the [Innovation] process"
"You need a complete innovation system, but at the smallest possible scale"
"If you are putting your hopes in a typical ideation funnel program, you are three ways away from the program collapsing"
Credits...
This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine
Episode Music: Tony Del Degan
Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan
Tuesday Aug 08, 2023
Tuesday Aug 08, 2023
The LIBI podcast BIPOC series celebrates and acknowledges BIPOC founders in Calgary's tech ecosystem, by sharing stories, struggles and successes. This podcast episode highlights Jefferson Roc an avid mental health advocate, Founder of PeerXAI, & proud father. He shares his mental health journey and his experience of being a black founder.
Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.
Host: Uriel Karerwa is a Program Manager at IncluCity Calgary, an organization devoted to the inclusion of diverse and underrepresented voices in the design of technology. With a background in neuroscience, Uriel has been coordinating community events and working with neurodiverse groups in Lethbridge; and has spoken on the topic of atypical neurology on the TEDx stage! Uriel is always exploring opportunities to impact communities in areas like I.D.E.A., Social Innovation, and Sustainability.
Guest: Jefferson Roc, a dynamic entrepreneur and advocate for mental health, was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti and later immigrated to Canada. Raised in Montreal, he initially pursued an accounting education, but his natural inclination toward entrepreneurship led him down a different path. With a strong foundation in sales and business, gained from running a successful distribution company, Jefferson's career has spanned 15 years of exceptional enterprise sales achievements.
Throughout his professional journey, Jefferson has consistently been acknowledged and honoured with overachievement awards, showcasing his ability to combine his deep understanding of customer needs with a sales-focused approach. He possesses a unique blend of tribal knowledge and strategic methodologies, enabling him to generate exceptional customer value and consistently achieve business objectives.
Driven by his personal experiences with mental health challenges, Jefferson founded his latest venture, PEERX.AI. Inspired by cutting-edge technologies like machine learning, PEERX.AI is revolutionizing the concept of wellness by providing a peer support solution that transcends conventional boundaries. The ground-breaking nature of PEERX.AI has garnered recognition and support from numerous mental health stakeholders, positioning it to become a leading force in corporate wellness.
Alongside his work on PEERX.AI , Jefferson serves as the Director for Partnerships and Alliances at Groupe3737, Canada's largest Startup incubator dedicated to fostering ethnocultural diversity. Additionally, he has taken on the role of Startup Mentor for both the BIPOC Foundation and the Alchemist X, actively addressing the funding gap that disproportionately affects underrepresented groups. Jefferson's unwavering commitment to creating contagious success reflects his belief in the power of passion, purpose, and profit.
Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.
Show Links:
Show Quotes:
"My experience of being a black founder: There was a lot of reluctance in accepting the message from the messenger, even though my value proposition was strong, validated, and fortified by tons of evidence... The imposter syndrome is still strong!"
Credits...
This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine
Episode Music: Tony Del Degan
Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan
Tuesday Aug 01, 2023
Tuesday Aug 01, 2023
Hear Daniel Monzon's wisdom on how important networking is, especially for newcomers and immigrants, and how he partnered with Calgary businesses to create an organization to help underrepresented people launch new businesses.
Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.
Host: Paignton Wild is a recent graduate from the Software Development program at SAIT. He has a strong passion for software development, web design, and all things tech. Throughout the years, Paignton has extensively studied C++, Java, HTML, CSS, React, JavaScript, MERN, and SQL. In addition to his technical skills, he has also ventured into content creation and is currently learning Photoshop and DaVinci Resolve to produce captivating images and videos for his social media platforms.
With his diploma in hand, Paignton is now actively seeking a software development team to join. His favorite aspect of programming is collaborating with others to solve problems and create applications that have a positive impact on people's lives. When he's not engrossed in coding, Paignton enjoys spending time rock climbing, biking, and cooking. Engaging in conversations about science and philosophy is something he finds particularly enjoyable.
Guest: Daniel Monzon started Creative//Social, an Information Management Company in 2015, which grew into a Management Consulting Firm that helps people and organizations bring their ideas to life. He works with people and systems to manage customer service relations and business operations, building capacity and creating value.
Over the past 10 years, Daniel has had the experience of working with different industries, including construction, technology, supply chain, finance, energy, non-for-profit, and all three levels of government: Federal, Provincial, and Municipal.
In 2022, he partnered up with other local Calgary businesses to create CATAPULT STARTUPS, a not-for-profit organization that helps underrepresented people (Including but not limited to, immigrants/newcomers, refugees, people with disabilities, black Canadians, and other minority groups) launch SMEs or Start-Ups. Their mission is to help underrepresented people launch 200 SMEs or Start-Ups in the Alberta ecosystem by 2032, creating 5,000 jobs and generating $3B in direct GDP.
Daniel enjoys volunteering, Liverpool FC, Toronto FC, Cavalry FC, Soccer Canada, and Peru FPF.
Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.
Show Links:
- Catapult Startups
- Calgary Innovation Coalition
- Alberta Innovates
- Prairies Economic Development Canada
- Calgary Catholic Immigrant Society
- Calgary Immigrant Womens Association
- Centre For Newcomers
- Momentum
- Immigrant Education Society
Show Quotes:
""
Credits...
This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine
Episode Music: Tony Del Degan
Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan
Tuesday Jul 25, 2023
Tuesday Jul 25, 2023
More and more people are realizing that a fulfilling life is not based on how much stuff you accumulate, but the number of remarkable experiences you have. Join Al Del Degan as he speaks with Rainforest elder, Gary Ellis about how the experience economy is a multi-billion dollar industry and Calgary needs to lead the way.
Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.
Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry.
Guest: Gary Ellis is a serial entrepreneur riding his 4th wave. A corporate dude phase, a resort designer phase, a branding architect phase and now all about emerging technology and making ‘places of remarkable experiences’
Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.
Show Links:
- Experience Economy Innovation Hub
- Electronic Arts
- Bioware
- Platform Calgary
- InceptionU
- Experience Economy Book
- Active City Collective
Show Quotes:
"I'm not sure where the term lunch without lunch came from but we actually did come with lunch, we brought our own lunches back in those days."
"I think Rainforest was a great impitus to getting our local ecosystem together and staying together and really proliferating."
"We are social animals, we all want to be part of this vibe."
Credits...
This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine
Episode Music: Tony Del Degan
Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan
Tuesday Jul 18, 2023
Tuesday Jul 18, 2023
We are working hard to engage the innovation ecosystem to think, talk, and act differently when it comes to entrepreneurial mental health
Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.
Host: Val McCarty is in the business of helping organizations visualize, communicate, and execute strategy in real time. Her studies were acquired at both University of Alberta and Grant MacEwan University, and encompassed Management, Education, and Human Services, with an aim to continue learning. Her previous experience includes the Financial Sector, Fitness Sector, and Early Childhood Education. When Val is not at work you can find her outside with her grandkids, or looking forward to the next live jam.
Guest: Sara Mateshaytis is a registered social worker who cares deeply about how we’re all actually doing. Before diving into entrepreneurship and becoming a co-founder, she worked in a variety of mental health settings–from a school to a hospital to a few community-based counselling practices–working with children, youth, individuals, families, couples, and everyone in between. She cares a lot about relationships and showing up genuinely in her work, and is working hard to shift the narrative around entrepreneur mental health.
Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.
Show Links:
Show Quotes:
"Entrepreneurs experience mental health concerns at a greater rate than the general population."
Credits...
This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine
Episode Music: Tony Del Degan
Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan
Tuesday Jul 11, 2023
Tuesday Jul 11, 2023
Shared a conversation with Caley on the joys and challenges of growing up as a gay man in the world of Hockey and Medicine. We discussed his educational journey and some of the key moments in his life that led him to starting Purpose Med.
Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.
Host: Paignton Wild is a recent graduate from the Software Development program at SAIT. He has a strong passion for software development, web design, and all things tech. Throughout the years, Paignton has extensively studied C++, Java, HTML, CSS, React, JavaScript, MERN, and SQL. In addition to his technical skills, he has also ventured into content creation and is currently learning Photoshop and DaVinci Resolve to produce captivating images and videos for his social media platforms.
With his diploma in hand, Paignton is now actively seeking a software development team to join. His favorite aspect of programming is collaborating with others to solve problems and create applications that have a positive impact on people's lives. When he's not engrossed in coding, Paignton enjoys spending time rock climbing, biking, and cooking. Engaging in conversations about science and philosophy is something he finds particularly enjoyable.
Guest: Dr. Caley Shukalek has a passion for innovation and technology that he integrates into his daily life as a physician, an administrator, a researcher, and a citizen. He truly believes that the world is in a constant state of change and that we need to be stewards of that change to shape it in the best possible fashion. Dr. Shukalek is a big believer in collaboration to ensure that we support and strengthen each other as we inevitably get some things right and some things wrong, though hopefully it's more of the former and less of the latter.
Dr. Shukalek has been blessed with many amazing mentors and opportunities in his career thus far; however, he knows he has so much more to learn from those around him and, hopefully, just as much to teach in reciprocation.
Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.
Show Links:
Show Quotes:
""
Credits...
This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine
Episode Music: Tony Del Degan
Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan
Tuesday Jul 04, 2023
Tuesday Jul 04, 2023
Woman have only been able to have their own back accounts since the late 1960's. Even since then, women and other marginalized communities have had difficulty in the male-focused banking industry. Alexandra aims to change that by educating women and others about how to manage their money and take control of their financial well-being.
Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta.
Host: Val McCarty is in the business of helping organizations visualize, communicate, and execute strategy in real time. Her studies were acquired at both University of Alberta and Grant MacEwan University, and encompassed Management, Education, and Human Services, with an aim to continue learning. Her previous experience includes the Financial Sector, Fitness Sector, and Early Childhood Education. When Val is not at work you can find her outside with her grandkids, or looking forward to the next live jam.
Guest: Alexandra Stante is an individual who firmly believes that people and purpose lie at the core of every organization. Throughout her career, she has dedicated herself to employing a human-centered philosophy in order to enhance the interactions between individuals, technology, and physical spaces, ultimately delivering impactful experiences. Alexandra's expertise lies in assisting businesses in improving performance and fostering growth by continuously seeking out innovative and enhanced approaches.
As a strategic leader and creative problem solver, Alexandra consistently challenges conventional thinking, providing guidance on strategies, and actively collaborating to co-create captivating new concepts. With a distinct vision and a profound sense of humanity, she navigates uncharted territories to deliver tangible results and make a significant impact.
Please be sure to share this episode with everyone you know. If you are interested in being either a host, a guest, or a sponsor of the show, please reach out. We are published in Google Podcasts and the iTunes store for Apple Podcasts We would be grateful if you could give us a rating as it helps spread the word about the show.
Show Links:
Show Quotes:
"We surveyed women across Canada to discover their unique concerns, pain points, and wild successes with regards to their financial experience. By focusing on women’s lived experiences, we knew we could get to the heart of the issues women face, and reimagine financial services that are not only better for women, but for everyone."
"It is only when ideas are translated into reality and reach the people they are intended to help that they actually start to change lives"
Credits...
This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine
Episode Music: Tony Del Degan
Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan