Best in the Biz

Season 6, Episode 5 - Charlie White & Jeffrey Young

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 16:30:46 +0000

What does it mean to grow business while protecting the land and strengthening community? In this special episode, we sit down with Charlie White, Western Vice Chief of Qalipu First Nation, and Jeffrey Young, President and CEO of the Mi’kmaw Cultural Foundation. Charlie shares his perspective on sustainability and resource protection drawing from lived experience and deep connection to the land. Jeffrey offers insight into building community-driven social enterprises, including the Mi’kmaw Cultural Foundation’s new childcare and community hub, and the realities of creating long-term sustainability beyond grants and government funding.

Want to learn more? Follow Qalipu First Nations and the Mi’kmaw Cultural Foundation on social media to explore initiatives and upcoming programs.

Season 6, Episode 4 - Allison Muise & Byron Alexander

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 16:30:45 +0000

Innovation and passion are at the center stage in this episode featuring Allison Muise of Triple Point Resources and Byron Alexander of Newfoundland Naturalist. Allison breaks down how an energy storage project in Western Newfoundland is helping make renewable energy more reliable. Byron shares his journey from decades in health and wellness to launching a land-based learning initiative. He discusses the vast potential for eco-tourism in Bay St. George region and shares his number one rule for entrepreneurs: follow your passion.

To know more about these projects, please follow Triple Point Resources and Newfoundland Naturalist

Season 6, Episode 3 - Kosuke Toba & Ciel Murray

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 17:30:55 +0000

Youth empowerment takes the spotlight in this episode featuring Kosuke Toba of Money Moose and Ciel Murray of the Mi’kmaw Cultural Foundation. Kosuke shares how he’s making financial literacy accessible and engaging for K–12 students through fast-paced workshops, real-life budgeting scenarios, and a children’s book designed to spark generational change. Ciel introduces Youth Ventures, a free program supporting Indigenous youth ages 12 to 29 with business ideas, mentorship, and even “business-in-a-box” kits to help young entrepreneurs get started.

Want to learn more? Check out Money Moose on Amazon and visit YouthVenturesNL.com to explore free support for young entrepreneurs.

Season 6, Episode 2 - Reisha Knott & Ray Brake

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 17:30:17 +0000

Careers don’t always follow a straight line and that’s where the learning happens. In this episode, we hear from Reisha Knott of Qalipu Holdings and Ray Brake of Digital Advertising Solutions. Reisha reflects on her journey as a CNA alumna who transitioned from finance to marketing and shares honest advice about discovering your strengths through real-world experience. Ray discusses the self-belief necessary to thrive. He highlights the wealth of local funding resources and explains why skepticism from others is often the best motivation to succeed. Tune in for a masterclass on networking, community giving, and professional pivoting.

Find out more about Digital Advertising Solutions at digitaladvertisingsolutions.ca

Season 6, Episode 1 - Jonah Rowsell & Rob Thomas

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 17:30:19 +0000

Community, collaboration, and a shared vision for business growth. This episode features Jonah Rowsell of Qalipu Business Network and Rob Thomas of Saltbox and Everoutdoor Adventures. From supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs with business planning and partnerships to building tourism experiences rooted in culture, place, and sustainability, these conversations highlight the power of working together. Tune in to hear practical advice for aspiring business owners.

Want to learn more or get involved? Visit the Qalipu Business Network and Everoutdoor Adventures

Season 5, Episode 6 - Adam Rowe, SubC Imaging

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 17:30:12 +0000

Join us for a deep dive with Adam Rowe of SubC Imaging! Discover how this Newfoundland-based company, co-founded by two CNA grads, has innovated to become a leader in underwater imaging for marine research, offshore energy, and defense across 30+ countries. Adam shares insights on building a tech business from the ground up, navigating international markets, and the vital role of community support.

Season 5, Episode 5 - Kayla Stride, Miawpukek First Nation

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 17:30:03 +0000

Kayla Stride of Miawpukek First Nation never planned on becoming a ceramic artist. After being waitlisted for flight school, she enrolled in Visual Arts and discovered pottery. In her words, the clay chose her. Since then, her journey has wound between full-time teaching, performing with the all-nations drum group Eastern Owl, and building her business Red Fire Ceramics. In this episode, Kayla reflects on embracing unexpected turns, making space for art on her own terms, and discovering new ways to create by drawing on available tools and supportive communities.

Season 5, Episode 4 - Josh Taylor, TxtSquad

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 16:30:02 +0000

Josh Taylor’s business, TxtSquad, simplifies communication for clients. He says making services more accessible can be a game-changer. Josh also shares why pacing growth matters in long-term markets and how strong relationships can open doors that speed alone cannot. Along the way, hear about TxtSquad co-founder Tim Bonnell, a CNA alum and recent winner of CNA’s Alumni Acclaim Award for Innovation. Tune in for practical insights on designing solutions that put people first.

Season 5, Episode 3 - Tera McDonald, Kalawik

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 16:30:56 +0000

In this episode, we sit down with Tera McDonald of Kalawikk Diversity Inc. Dive into her unique path from educator to entrepreneur, exploring how she's building inclusive spaces and empowering Indigenous women. Tera reveals the transformative power of storytelling, the critical role of transparency in business, and invaluable lessons learned from real-world challenges. A must-listen for anyone looking to lead with purpose and make a genuine impact.

Season 5, Episode 2- Dennis Shelley, DWS Mobile Welding

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 16:30:43 +0000

Welding isn’t just a trade—it’s a launchpad for entrepreneurship. In this episode, we meet the founder of DWS Mobile Welding, Dennis W. Shelley, who turned 18 years of experience into a business built on skill, patience, and grit. He grew his company from scratch, one job at a time. Hear how trusting his instincts, solving tough problems on-site, and building strong client relationships helped him go from employee to business owner in the heart of Newfoundland.

Season 5, Episode 1 - Jacqueline Burke, Make It Sweet

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 16:30:35 +0000

Chocolate-covered strawberries, charcuterie cups, and a whole lot of hustle—this episode features Jacqueline Burke who turned her love for making sweets into a profitable small business. From getting certified and licensed to hosting pop-ups at Marble Mountain, she’s building a brand that’s as creative as it is delicious. Tune in to hear how she juggles full-time work, entrepreneurship, and making her customers smile—one handcrafted treat at a time.

Want to taste the magic? Follow Make It Sweet on Facebook to order or learn more.

Season 4, Episode 7 - Jason McDonald, Futurpreneur

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 16:30:00 +0000

Mentorship and Meaningful Connection: What role do mentorship and communication play in entrepreneurial success? Jason McDonald from Futurpreneur breaks it down. He emphasizes the importance of face-to-face communication, a skill he calls a lost art. He also highlights how building genuine relationships can make a lasting difference for both mentors and entrepreneurs. Whether you're looking to start or grow your business, this episode will inspire you to start by building connections. Access Futurpreneur's services at futurpreneur.ca.

Season 4, Episode 6 - Aaron McInnis, Man Vesus Cake/Happy Belly Cakery

Wed, 02 Apr 2025 16:30:00 +0000

Truth Behind Success: Baker. Teacher. Competitor. Author. TV Host. There’s not much Aaron McInnis hasn’t done. Unemployed at 23, Aaron dove into entrepreneurship with zero experience and zero regrets. Since then, he’s competed on the Food Network, launched his own show on Bell Fibe TV, and released a cookbook Happy Belly: The Cake Book. In this episode, Aaron shares how he built his business through organic social media. His advice? Be real. To order a delicious custom cake, you can find Happy Belly Cakery on Facebook.

Season 4, Episode 5 - Sharon Evans, SEVA Meditation

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 16:30:00 +0000

Shifting Your Perception: Entrepreneurship often feels fast paced, but Sharon Evans encourages us to embrace stillness. When she stopped trying to be a meditation teacher in a traditional business sense, she began embodying her authentic self. For Sharon, every challenge holds a lesson. Reframing setbacks transforms them into opportunities. She highlights the power of cultivating calm and building growth through mindfulness. Discover your stillness at sevameditation.com

Season 4, Episode 4 - Dee Higdon

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 17:30:00 +0000

Strategy Meets Creativity: Based in Edmonton, Alberta, Dee Higdon has spent seven years building a successful business working with small to mid-size companies. She credits her background in journalism for instilling the diligence and versatility needed for entrepreneurship. Dee emphasizes the importance of aligning goals with tactics, defining a strong brand identity, and choosing clients based on mutual understanding. Discover how to create strategies that attract and retain the right audience while driving long-term success. Learn more at deehigdon.com.

Season 4, Episode 3 - Andre Gallant, Canadian Intellectual Property Office

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 17:30:00 +0000

Owning Your Ideas: Have an idea? Then it’s time to talk about intellectual property! In this episode, Andre Gallant, an IP Advisor with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office, joins our host Ian to break down the essentials of protecting your ideas. Recorded live at the 2024 NLOWE Conference, this conversation is full of practical advice for entrepreneurs in any industry. Andre shares why IP matters, how to connect with experts early, and ways to minimize risk as you bring your ideas to life. Tune in and visit canada.ca/ip-advisors to learn more!

Season 4, Episode 2- Kim Fequet, Root Awakenings & Tasteful Gatherings

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 17:30:00 +0000

Reap What You Sow: This episode we’re joined by Kim Fequet, owner of Root Awakenings and Tasteful Gatherings, based in Western Newfoundland. A proud alumni of CNA's Agricultural Technician program, Kim shares her journey in the agri-food industry. She highlights the Provincial Vegetable Transplant Program and how it helped her business thrive by reducing costs and boosting recognition. Kim also emphasizes the importance of having a solid business plan. Tune in for practical advice on growing a successful business from the ground up.

Season 4, Episode 1 - Alex Hennifent, VOLTFUSE

Wed, 22 Jan 2025 17:30:00 +0000

Propelled by Purpose: What happens when you turn your passion into a business at just 14 years old? Meet Alex Hennifent, owner of VOLTFUSE, a rider-owned headwear and apparel brand for snowboarders, skiers, skateboarders, and adventure-seekers. In this episode, Alex shares how he built a global brand rooted in community, quality, and creativity. Alex’s story is packed with advice for anyone dreaming big: learn the importance of knowing your “why,” building a reputation for quality, and seeking feedback to grow. Whether you’re into outdoor sports or starting a business, this episode will inspire you to carve your own path. Check out VOLTFUSE at voltfuse.com

Season 3, Episode 8 - Charlene Brophy

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 17:30:00 +0000

NL Pride, Global Impact: From health care aide to CEO of an international telemedicine company, Charlene Brophy shares her inspiring journey in our Season 3 finale. Charlene is the CEO of Fonemed and a proud CNA alumni. She joins host Ian MacDonald to discuss the strengths of running Fonemed from Newfoundland and Labrador, how the company supported families affected by 9/11, and why embracing where you’re from can be your greatest asset. Tune in for invaluable advice on diversity in leadership, learning from failure, and leveraging technology to improve services.

Find out more about Fonemed at https://www.fonemed.com/.

Season 3 of Best in the Biz is brought to you in partnership with the Newfoundland and Labrador Organization of Women Entrepreneurs (NLOWE). NLOWE offers a wide range of services to members across the province. Find out how you can grow with NLOWE at nlowe.org. 

Season 3, Episode 7 - Emily Bland & April Penney

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 17:30:00 +0000

Hydroponics to Haircuts: Emily Bland, Seed-EO of SucSeed, and April Penney, owner of Refined Barbershop, prove that trusting your gut can pay off. Emily transformed a student project into a social enterprise tackling food security. And April is elevating the barbershop game and building a loyal clientele in the process. These two driven entrepreneurs offer fresh insights into building impactful, customer-focused businesses.

Check out SucSeed at https://sucseed.ca/ and visit Refined Barbershop at www.refinedbarbershop.ca.

Season 3, Episode 6 - Denise Goodyear & Alicia Barrett

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 17:30:00 +0000

Harnessing Networks and Hard Work: Denise Goodyear, owner of Intuitive Media, and Alicia Barrett, owner of A2Z Photography, share their entrepreneurial insights. Denise, a CNA alum, explains how hiring CNA work-term students has helped her business grow. She also discusses her commitment to leveling the playing field for all entrepreneurs through accessible marketing expertise and the power of leveraging networks like NLOWE. Alicia brings passion and dedication to her craft, emphasizing the hard work it takes to succeed as an entrepreneur. With her industry accreditation giving her an edge, she continues to put her clients first.

Learn more at https://intuitivemedia.ca/ and https://www.imagesbya2z.ca/.

Season 3, Episode 5 - Jessica Brown

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 16:30:00 +0000

Balancing Business & Making Space for Others: Jessica Brown is an Inuk filmmaker and entrepreneur from Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Labrador. She juggles multiple businesses—Ujarak Media, St. John's Fashion Week, and the Northern Film Initiative—all while being a mom of two. In this episode, Jessica opens up about facing uncertainty head-on and the power of representation. Tune in for her advice on taking risks, staying balanced, and leading with purpose.

Follow Jessica on Instagram @xojessicadbrown or check out St. John’s Fashion Week at @stjohnsfashionweek.

Season 3, Episode 4 - Laurabel Mba & Kelly Ryan

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 16:30:00 +0000

Why ‘People-First’ is Good Business: In this two-for-one episode, we’re joined by Laurabel Mba, owner of Laurabel Mba Consulting, and Kelly Ryan, founder of Nerdy Nutrition Corporate Wellness. Laurabel highlights the critical role of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in creating successful businesses, while Kelly shares how health and wellness programs can engage, attract, and retain employees. Together, they offer insights on fostering a positive workplace culture that puts people at the heart of business success.

You can find Laurabel Mba Consulting at laurabelmba.com and on Instagram @laurabel_mba. For Nerdy Nutrition Corporate Wellness, visit nerdynutrition.ca or connect with Kelly on LinkedIn.

Season 3, Episode 3 - Edgewise Environmental

Wed, 25 Sep 2024 16:30:00 +0000

Taking Care of Nature and Yourself: From childhood dreams of becoming a marine biologist to launching her own environmental consulting firm, Ashley Noseworthy’s story is a testament to passion and perseverance. How did Ashley turn a long-held idea into a thriving business? Recognizing a market gap in 2010, it took nearly a decade for Ashley to start her business. But there was a problem she needed to solve, even if it meant stepping into the unknown. Ashley talks about her transition from full-time employment to entrepreneurship, the growing importance of an environmental lens, and why it’s okay to not have all the credentials before diving in. Her advice? You don’t need to do, or know, it all—learn as you go and give yourself grace.

Find out more about Ashley’s business Edgewise Environmental at EdgewiseEnvironmental.com.

Season 3, Episode 1 - Amplified Social

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 16:30:00 +0000

Social Media Marketing for Entrepreneurs: We’re kickstarting season three with Olivia Crane, the mastermind behind Amplified Social. Whether you're a startup or a seasoned business owner, Olivia shares actionable insights on how to focus your energy where it truly matters – where your target audience hangs out online. Find out how to develop a rock-solid long-term strategy and learn why consistency is your best friend in the social media game.

You can visit Amplified Social at www.amplifiedsocial.ca.

Season 3, Episode 2 - Sidra Anwar & Sarah Whelan

Wed, 11 Sep 2024 16:30:00 +0000

MedTech Innovation Meets Small-Town Motivation: This episode, we sit down with two powerhouse entrepreneurs. Sidra Anwar, co-founder of MetaCrust Services Ltd. shares how her company is revolutionizing secure health data transmission from Newfoundland to the Netherlands. Sarah Whelan, the mompreneur behind Cria Boutique and Purely Radiant Salon & Home Décor, talks about navigating business ownership from launch to expansion. Tune in for insights on turning ideas into reality, and the importance of continuous learning.

Check out MetaCrust Services Ltd. at www.metacrust.ca and follow Sarah's journey on social media – find Cria Boutique on Instagram and Facebook, and Purely Radiant Salon & Home Décor on Facebook.

Season 2, Episode 7 - CBDC Long Range

Wed, 17 Apr 2024 16:30:00 +0000

Get ready to take notes! In this episode, Rae Miller, Executive Director of the Community Business Development Corporation (CBDC) Long Range, offers up a treasure trove of resources. In her experience, your business plan is your roadmap, but writing one can be challenging. Luckily, with a network of 15 CBDCs in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL), help is nearby. CBDC Long Range supports entrepreneurs with business loans, expert guidance, the Entrepreneurial Training Fund, the Self-Employment Assistance (SEA) Benefit, and more. Contact CBDC Long Range at 709-643-2933 or LongRange@cbdc.ca to tap into these invaluable resources and take your business to new heights.

Season 2, Episode 6 - Arlims

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 16:30:00 +0000

The Arlims story: old school charm invigorated by new energy. This week’s guest is Tracy Boland, co-owner of Arlims store in Stephenville, NL. Driving down main street Stephenville, the iconic yellow Arlims sign is bound to catch your eye, but it might also send you on a trip down memory lane. For Tracy, her love of the store blossomed long before she took ownership in 2023. It started when she was a young girl fabric shopping with her mom. Fast forward to present day and family is still at the heart of this local business. In fact, it was a family connection that set Tracy on her entrepreneurial journey. She says the key to success in the retail industry is treating your staff and clientele like family too. Tune in to learn more about maintaining a good business reputation and prioritizing community. Keep an eye out for upcoming contests on Arlims' Facebook page.

Season 2, Episode 5 - Horizon TNL & Candy Lane

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 16:30:00 +0000

Andrew Hibbitts-Kerhoas is no stranger to the ups and downs of owning a business. At Horizon TNL, he provides business services, helps employers with their bilingual recruitment needs, and supports tourism and immigration. He’s also owned several businesses himself. Host Ian MacDonald sat down with Andrew for an engaging conversation on staffing challenges, effective marketing, and accessing often underutilized resources. Ending on a sugar high, Andrew shares the sweet success of his latest business acquisition Candy Lane. Explore Horizon TNL’s services at www.horizontnl.ca. For a sweet treat, check out www.shopcandylane.com

This episode was recorded in December 2023.

Season 2, Episode 4 - RAR Innovations

Wed, 06 Mar 2024 17:30:00 +0000

Meet Allie Lynch, Chief Innovation Officer of RAR Innovations. Allie is a student of CNA’s Mechanical Engineering Technology (Manfacturing) Co-Op program. Recently, she completed an entrepreneurial work-term with the college. In this episode, we explore how Allie’s work-term catalyzed the development of the Lickety Splint. This includes access to prototyping labs and 3D printers in CNA’s Office of Applied Research. Allie highlights the need to build a strong team that works to each person's strengths. She also encourages other entrepreneurs to ask for what they need. In her experience, sometimes the answer will surprise you. Want to find out more about RAR Innovations’ work? Connect with Allie on LinkedIn!

Season 2, Episode 3 – PB Productions

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 12:27:46 +0000

This week’s guest is Peter Buckle. He’s the owner of PB Productions and an instructor in CNA’s Digital Filmmaking program. After working in the Vancouver film industry, Peter made his way home to Corner Brook, NL. He expected he’d eventually wind up back on the East coast. Instead, he started a successful video production company and, shortly after, began training the next generation of filmmakers. He never looked back. One big benefit to operating in a small town? The outpouring of excitement and support the community gives… including the opportunity to shut down an airport runway. Check out PB Productions on Facebook at www.facebook.com/PBJfilms and on Instagram at www.instagram.com/productions_pb

Season 2, Episode 2 - Karl’s Canteen & Irving Gas Bar

Wed, 07 Feb 2024 17:30:00 +0000

What’s it like being an entrepreneur? Stefan Young says it’s a balancing act. Stefan is the owner of Karl’s Canteen and Irving Gas Bar in Stephenville Crossing, NL. He purchased both businesses just over three years ago. In a rural community like Stephenville Crossing, businesses like his are essential. In this episode, Stefan shares the challenges and benefits that come along with acquiring an existing business and operating in a small town. He discusses the wealth of support he received from his community and organizations like Ulnooweg Development Group. Entrepreneurship may be hard, but in Stefan’s view the bad days are balanced out by the good. Find Karl’s Canteen and Stephenville Crossing Irving on Facebook.

Season 2, Episode 1 - Engen Books

Wed, 24 Jan 2024 17:30:00 +0000

When Matthew LeDrew decided to study journalism, he thought he’d be the next Peter Parker, Clark Kent, or Lois Lane. Instead, he followed in the footsteps of writers Stan Lee and Jerry Siegel. Matthew is the founder of Engen Books, a book publishing company based in Newfoundland and Labrador, and he’s an author himself. In this episode, he and host Ian MacDonald talk about transferable skills, how mentorship puts things into perspective, and balancing passion with financial responsibility. Matthew says publishing isn’t a get-rich-quick venture. It’s a labour of love. Tune in to find out how he navigated the growing pains and created a career that ignites his passion every day. Find out more about Engen Books at engenbooks.com or check out Matthew’s Write Project Podcast on Facebook.

Season 1, Episode 7 – Funding options with Ulnooweg Development Group

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 17:30:00 +0000

Ulnooweg Development Group has been providing loans and business services to Indigenous entrepreneurs in Atlantic Canada since 1986. In this feature episode, host Ian MacDonald caught up with Arlene Blanchard-White. Arlene is a Commercial Account Manager at Ulnooweg and recent winner of the CNA 2023 Alumni Acclaim Award for Community Service. Covering topics from funding options to succession planning, Arlene shares valuable insights and resources for entrepreneurs at all stages. She identifies common challenges such as cash flow management, digital marketing, and how to scale a business. Key takeaway: Explore all your options and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Find out more about Ulnooweg’s services at ulnooweg.ca or toll free at 1-888-766-2376.

Season 1, Episode 6 – Aguathuna Drafting & Consulting Co

Wed, 22 Nov 2023 17:30:00 +0000

Following your interests can take you unexpected places. In Jamie Goosney’s case, it led him across North America and, later, to start Aguathuna Drafting & Consulting Co in Port au Port East. Jamie shares how his life experiences shaped a successful business idea. He encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to take advantage of every opportunity. He stresses the importance of valuing your team, maintaining good relationships, and staying connected with classmates. Because true success is built on teamwork.

Season 1, Episode 5 – Kyle Callahan Photography

Wed, 08 Nov 2023 17:30:00 +0000

Godzilla in the St. John’s Narrows. Batman by the Basilica. Deadpool on Water Street. You can thank Kyle Callahan Photography for capturing these scenes and more. Kyle sat down with host Ian MacDonald to discuss the growth of his photography career. He first picked up a camera in CNA’s Graphic Design program, and the rest was history. Kyle now has a full-time spot at the St. John’s Farmer’s Market. He's also collaborating on a new book, The Fairies of Foggy Island, to be published by Engen Books later this year. His secret to small business success? Follow your passion, but also consider your audience. Find a way to be true to yourself, while still giving your audience what they’re looking for. That’s how you build your name. Once you're established, you can focus more on what your strategy and growth.

Season 1, Episode 4 – CryoNL

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 16:30:00 +0000

Stuck coming up with a business idea? Find something good and make it better. Jacob Trask, owner of Cryo NL, says business isn’t always sexy, and it doesn’t have to be. Jacob founded Cryo NL two years after graduating from CNA’s Business Management (Marketing) program. At the time, cryotherapy had been popular in the United States for years. It started gaining momentum in Canada, but it hadn’t yet reached Newfoundland and Labrador. Jacob noticed this gap in the market and leapt at the opportunity. But what is cryotherapy? It is the process of spraying dry ice on the body. It uses extreme cold (-77 degrees Celsius to be exact) for pain management and cosmetic purposes. At Cryo NL, Jacob has treated everything from arthritis to migraines. Jacob’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs is don’t overcomplicate it. If you can find a way to better serve customers, you can find success… even in a crowded industry.

Season 1, Episode 3 – Sarah Crowe Designs

Wed, 11 Oct 2023 16:30:00 +0000

When you’re an artist, your art is your business. And that can leave you feeling especially vulnerable to criticism. In Sarah Crowe’s case, this fear nearly prevented her from starting her business Sarah Crowe Designs. After getting a degree, she thought she’d be a teacher or translator. Instead, she felt she was spinning her wheels. That’s when she decided to enroll at CNA to study Textile and Apparel Design. Starting a business was a natural, but scary, next step. Host Ian MacDonald talked to Sarah about the importance of a strong support network and asking for help. Sarah offers these words of wisdom: “Don’t let the imposter syndrome get the best of you. You owe it to yourself to go for it.” Sarah Crowe Designs operates out of Quidi Vidi Village Artistian Studios in St. John’s, NL.

Season 1, Episode 2 – Rendell Shea Manor & Applebeard Editions

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 16:57:30 +0000

Do all good business ideas disrupt the industry? No. But pitch competition shows like Dragon's Den and Shark Tank might make you think otherwise. Geoff Pevlin is the co-owner of Applebeard Editions and Rendell Shea Manor. He joined host Ian MacDonald to discuss “boring” versus disruptive business, staying open to opportunity, and how to deal with unexpected challenges. Geoff cautions entrepreneurs to be wary of advice. Every situation and business can be different; however, we can all learn from our mistakes.

Season 1, Episode 1 – LH Media

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 16:47:52 +0000

For Lucas Hillier, owner and operator of LH Media, business runs in the family. When Lucas got laid off during the COVID-19 pandemic, he took inspiration from his Pop and Dad and started his own business. Support from friends and family – combined with smart word-of-mouth marketing – helped LH Media survive a slow first year of operations. Host Ian MacDonald sat down with Lucas to learn how LH Media found success in video production and digital marketing, and scored the opportunity to film for the History Channel. Lucas’ advice? Your first two years as an entrepreneur probably won’t go as planned, but if you invest the time and don’t give up, you can reap the rewards.

Best in the Biz Sneak Peek

Wed, 20 Sep 2023 18:30:00 +0000

The Best in the Biz Entrepreneurship podcast is the first of its kind for CNA, offering tips and expert advice from some of the best business minds out there. Start your journey as an entrepreneur today with CNA’s Entrepreneurship Initiative. With our knowledgeable team at your side, you're sure to reach new heights and secure your success.

CNA Entrepreneurship Launch Teaser

Wed, 13 Sep 2023 18:00:00 +0000

Hey, entrepreneurs! We’re thrilled to announce the official launch of CNA’s Entrepreneurship Initiative! If you're a CNA student or alum wanting to start a business or get help with an existing one, we’re here for you. Our website, workshops, and mentorship will give you the tools you need. But wait, there's more… We're launching the BEST IN THE BIZ Entrepreneurship podcast too! So if you want to start or grow your business, reach out and let us help you.