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POV Hamilton Podcast

POV Hamilton Podcast

By Greening Marketing Inc.

The POV Hamilton podcast is exploring innovation in #HamOnt. We're talking to movers, shakers, entrepreneurs, researchers, and more about what is making the Steel City such a hot spot for technology, innovation, growth, and discovery. Informative and unique points-of-view are waiting, explore Hamilton, Ontario with us!
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Ep 24 - Cyrus Tehrani, Chief Digital Officer and Director of Innovation for the City of Hamilton

POV Hamilton PodcastFeb 04, 2022

00:00
20:08
Ep. 47 - Stephanie McLarty, Founder of REfficient

Ep. 47 - Stephanie McLarty, Founder of REfficient

Welcome back to POV Hamilton Podcast Innovation Factory Takeover! Join us for a captivating episode as we sit down with Stephanie McLarty, founder of REfficient. Stephanie shares her inspiring entrepreneurial journey, from identifying a gap in the telecommunications industry to founding REfficient and navigating its growth.


In this episode, Stephanie discusses the challenges she faced as a 'Non-Technical' founder and how she overcame them to establish REfficient as a leader in telecom equipment recycling and reuse. She also reflects on the milestone of REfficient's acquisition by Quantum Lifecycle Partners in 2021.


Stephanie delves into the pivotal role her ecosystem played in REfficient's success, highlighting the importance of community support and collaboration. Tune in to gain valuable insights from Stephanie McLarty's journey and learn how REfficient transformed the telecom industry's approach to sustainability. Thank you, Stephanie, for sharing your story with us!

Mar 01, 202431:30
Ep. 46 - Reece Morgan, Executive Director, the Industry Education Council of Hamilton (IEC) and Sheryl Robinson Petrazzini, Director of Education, Hamilton Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB)

Ep. 46 - Reece Morgan, Executive Director, the Industry Education Council of Hamilton (IEC) and Sheryl Robinson Petrazzini, Director of Education, Hamilton Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB)

Welcome back to POV Hamilton Podcast! Get ready for an exhilarating episode featuring a special guest host, Reece Morgan, the esteemed Director of the Industry Education Council of Hamilton (IEC)! Join Reece as he leads a captivating interview with none other than Sheryl Robinson Petrazzini, the Director of Education at Hamilton Wentworth District School Board (HWDSB). Together, they delve into the groundbreaking collaboration between industry and education, the transformative power of experimental learning, and the profound impact on Hamilton's bustling economic landscape.
Don't miss this enlightening conversation as Reece and Sheryl dissect the intricate relationship between industry and education, unveiling the secrets to Hamilton's economic growth. Tune in to the POV Hamilton Podcast and gain invaluable insights into the symbiotic partnership shaping the future of our city! Thank you, Reece and Sheryl, for sharing your expertise!

Feb 16, 202422:17
Ep. 46 - Ryan O'Grady, CEO and Founder of FOTAFLO

Ep. 46 - Ryan O'Grady, CEO and Founder of FOTAFLO

Welcome back to POV Hamilton Podcast. Join us for another Innovation Factory TAKEOVER as we sit down with Ryan O'Grady, CEO and Founder of FOTAFLO. Ryan shares his entrepreneurial journey, discussing the highs and lows of building a successful business. He offers valuable insights into the challenges of entrepreneurship, reflecting on the lessons he has learned along the way.

In this episode, Ryan delves into his long-standing relationship with Innovation Factory and how the organization has supported FOTAFLO's growth. From resources to mentorship, Ryan highlights the crucial role Innovation Factory has played in his entrepreneurial journey.

Don't miss this insightful conversation with Ryan O'Grady, where he shares his experiences, advice, and the story behind FOTAFLO's success. Tune in to the POV Hamilton Podcast, Innovation Factory TAKEOVER to gain valuable insights into entrepreneurship and innovation from a seasoned entrepreneur. Thank you Ryan for being on the show!

Dec 19, 202326:13
Ep. 45 - JR Digs, Founder and Host of JR Digs Acoustic Christmas Concert

Ep. 45 - JR Digs, Founder and Host of JR Digs Acoustic Christmas Concert

Welcome to a special episode of the POV Hamilton Podcast sponsored by Starward Homes! In this episode, we're thrilled to chat with JR Digs, the Founder and Host of the JR Digs Acoustic Christmas Concert. Join us as we delve into the concert's origins, its evolution, and what lies ahead for this extraordinary musical event.
What sets this acoustic concert apart is its philanthropic focus. The concert allocates 100% of its net proceeds to support charitable organizations within Hamilton. Beyond being a concert, the J.R. Digs Acoustic Christmas Concert is a celebration of community and generosity. Designed to commemorate the Hamilton community's spirit of giving, the event revolves around the theme of supporting fellow Hamiltonians in need. 
Tune into this episode to explore the profound impact of the concert on charitable organizations in Hamilton, where the worlds of music and charitable giving collide.

Dec 12, 202320:40
Ep. 44 - Reece Morgan, Executive Director of the Industry Education Council (IEC) of Hamilton

Ep. 44 - Reece Morgan, Executive Director of the Industry Education Council (IEC) of Hamilton

In this episode of POV Hamilton, we sit down with Reece Morgan, the Executive Director of the Industry Education Council (IEC) of Hamilton. Reece provides a comprehensive overview of IEC's pivotal role in the Hamilton community, where they act as a crucial bridge between education and industry. He delves into how IEC empowers students by equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in Hamilton's diverse job market.

Reece also emphasizes the importance of industry partnerships in IEC's mission. He discusses how local businesses and organizations collaborate with IEC to not only support the development of Hamilton's future workforce but also benefit from a steady pipeline of talented individuals who are well-prepared for success. 

Join us for this insightful podcast that sheds light on the essential connections between education, industry, and community development in Hamilton. Whether you're a student, educator, or community member, this episode offers a unique perspective on the opportunities that await in Hamilton's evolving landscape. 

Sep 25, 202320:44
Ep. 43 - Brian Melo, Musician, Artist, Songwriter, Music Mentor, and Podcaster

Ep. 43 - Brian Melo, Musician, Artist, Songwriter, Music Mentor, and Podcaster

Join us for a special episode of the Hamilton Podcast as we sit down with Brian Melo, the talented winner of the fifth season of Canadian Idol, to explore his remarkable journey into the world of music. Brian shares his story, from the life-changing moment of his Canadian Idol victory to his current ventures in the industry. Get ready to be inspired by his experiences, challenges, and the passion that drives his artistry.


In this episode, we delve into Brian's early musical influences and the pivotal moments that ignited his love for performing. He takes us behind the scenes of his Canadian Idol experience, sharing the personal growth it brought him. Additionally, listen to an update on Brian's current endeavors. From exciting collaborations with renowned artists to upcoming projects, he gives us a glimpse into his future plans.


Don't miss this chance to be a part of Brian's artistic journey as he continues to make his mark on the music industry. Thank you Brain for being on the POV Hamilton Podcast!

Jun 28, 202318:41
Ep. 42 - Fabian Raso, founder of HANGRY

Ep. 42 - Fabian Raso, founder of HANGRY

Join us on a special episode of POV Hamilton as we welcome Fabian Raso, the founder of HANGRY, for another Innovation Factory TAKEOVER. Discover the captivating story behind HANGRY, a revolutionary food delivery platform that has transformed the industry. Fabian will share his journey, from initial inspiration to overcoming challenges and achieving success.

In this exclusive interview, Fabian reveals the key insights and innovations that propelled HANGRY's rise. Gain insights into Fabian's entrepreneurial hurdles, perseverance, and the importance of building strong partnerships.

Tune in to this captivating episode of POV Hamilton as we explore the remarkable journey of Fabian Raso and the groundbreaking creation of HANGRY. Discover how technology and innovation can satisfy our insatiable hunger for delicious food, while inspiring you to think outside the box and leave your mark on the world!

Jun 01, 202312:55
Ep. 41 - John Thorpe, Race Director of Paris to Ancaster

Ep. 41 - John Thorpe, Race Director of Paris to Ancaster

The POV Hamilton Podcast is back with another exciting episode, and this time, the hosts are joined by none other than Paris to Ancaster race director, John Thorpe. In this episode, John discusses the history and future of the beloved bike race, which has become a staple of the Hamilton community.

As someone who has been involved with P2A for many years, John brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the conversation. He shares stories and insights that highlight what makes this race so special, from the rugged terrain to the camaraderie among riders.

Throughout the podcast, John also discusses the changes and improvements that have been made to P2A over the years, as well as what's in store for the future. He shares his vision for the event and talks about the ways in which it continues to evolve and grow.

Whether you're a seasoned P2A rider or simply interested in the world of competitive biking, this podcast is not to be missed. Thank you for tuning in to POV Hamilton Podcast and special thank you to John for being such a wonderful guest! 

Mar 16, 202310:37
Ep. 40 - Margaret Coons, founder and CEO of Nuts for Cheese

Ep. 40 - Margaret Coons, founder and CEO of Nuts for Cheese

Welcome back to the POV Hamilton podcast, where we showcase innovative and impactful businesses making waves in our community. We're thrilled to be kicking of this year with an Innovation Factory TAKEOVER featuring Nuts for Cheese, a company that's redefining the world of plant-based cheese alternatives.

Founded in 2015 by CEO and visionary Margaret Coons, Nuts for Cheese is on a mission to provide delicious, sustainable, and healthy cheese alternatives to the masses. Margaret's passion for plant-based eating was sparked by a desire to find healthy and environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional dairy cheese. She recognized the potential of nuts as a versatile and nutritious base for cheese, and set out to create a range of delicious and innovative products.

In this episode, Margaret shares her journey of launching Nuts for Cheese, including the challenges of disrupting a traditional industry and navigating the complexities of scaling a sustainable food business. She also discusses the impact Innovation Factory has made on her journey as an entrepreneur.

Whether you're a foodie looking to expand your culinary horizons or an entrepreneur seeking inspiration from innovative leaders, this episode is a must-listen. Thanks for tuning in to the POV Hamilton podcast, and a special thanks to Margaret Coons and the team at Nuts for Cheese for sharing their inspiring story with us.

#HamOnt

Feb 24, 202319:52
Lions Lair Special 2022

Lions Lair Special 2022

This year our friends at the Innovation Factory celebrated their 12th Annual Lions' Lair competition! Start-up founders & entrepreneurs from across #HamOnt and beyond entered the Lair, pitched their idea to investors, and participated in training, networking, and mentorship opportunities. 

In this year's Lions Lair special episode, meet Amanda from Boardball, this year's Grand Prize Winner, to learn about the brand new sport her and her team have invented. Then, stick around to meet the founders of Augere Corp, Inwit, and TSPro1 and learn about these three other Top 15 companies. 

Head over to https://lionslair.ca/2022-finalists/ to meet all of the finalists and check out their full pitches! Thanks to Amanda, Blessing, Erika, and James for being on the show! 

Oct 07, 202231:41
Ep. 39 - Rachel Bartholomew, founder & CEO of Hyivy

Ep. 39 - Rachel Bartholomew, founder & CEO of Hyivy

Innovation Factory TAKEOVER with Hyivy Health

We've got life science innovation in the spotlight on this week's POV Hamilton podcast! Rachel Bartholomew is the founder & CEO of Hyivy, a company focused on women's pelvic health. Our friends at the Innovation Factory introduced us to Rachel, and she joins us on the pod this week to share her start-up journey.

A patient herself, Rachel realized the limitations of current technology designed to help women recovering from cervical cancer. She created a device that's more comfortable, modern, and effective than the ones currently on the market, and is in the process of obtaining Health Canada approvals and going through clinical trials. In our talk, Rachel shares the ups and downs, challenges and rewards that go along with launching a medical device, and speaks about how Innovation Factory and the SOPHIE funding program helped make her vision a reality. 

For anyone out there navigating the world of life sciences, approvals, clinical trials, and funding challenges, you don't want to miss this episode! Thanks Rachel for sharing your journey and thanks to the Innovation Factory for being a guiding light for start-ups in #HamOnt. 

Sep 06, 202223:58
Ep. 38 - Jason Thorne, General Manager of Planning & Economic Development, City of Hamilton

Ep. 38 - Jason Thorne, General Manager of Planning & Economic Development, City of Hamilton

Jason Thorne is Hamilton’s Head of Planning & Economic Development, and he joins us on the POV pod this week to talk all things #HamOnt.

From Hamilton’s growth and economic development, to our booming cultural industries, to challenges facing the city around affordability, Jason has a fascinating perspective and a deep love of his hometown.

Want to know more about Hamilton’s past, present, and future? You don't want to miss this episode!

Thanks so much Jason for being on the show!

Aug 18, 202217:57
Ep. 37 - 'Innovation as a Service' with Suvojit Ghosh, CEO and Founder of FYELABS

Ep. 37 - 'Innovation as a Service' with Suvojit Ghosh, CEO and Founder of FYELABS

Suvojit Ghosh and his team founded FYELABS with one goal in mind: be a one-stop-shop for innovators who need technical product development. Rather than doing R&D in-house, start-ups can call on FYELABS for 'Innovation as a Service'.

In our latest podcast episode, Suvojit takes us through this 'As a Service' concept and shares how he & his multi-disciplinary team have grown so successful in such a short time. He talks about the importance of finding great talent and our GTHA talent funnel, how his company's base at McMaster Innovation Park in Hamilton has helped them on their way to success and expansion, and shares advice for all the potential founders and innovators out there. 

Thanks Suvojit for this fascinating discussion of why the concept of 'As A Service' applies perfectly to innovation. Learn all about it at www.FYELABS.com


Aug 03, 202219:44
Ep. 36 - Cycling in Hamilton with City Planner Jason Thorne & Hamilton Bike Share

Ep. 36 - Cycling in Hamilton with City Planner Jason Thorne & Hamilton Bike Share

We're riding into a new episode of the POV Hamilton podcast this week all about cycling! Every year, Hamilton's investment in cycling infrastructure is growing, and more and more residents are taking to the streets to bike for work and play.

In this episode, we chat with Hamilton's General Manager of Planning & Economic Development, Jason Thorne, about how cycling fits into sustainable infrastructure planning in #HamOnt, what's coming next, and how the city is working to make cycling more accessible for all.

Then, we hear from Julia Labricciosa from Hamilton Bike Share all about this wonderful program, popular spots in the city for riders, and to discuss the age-old question: how do you ride your bike up and down the Hamilton Mountain?

Cycling enthusiasts, this episode is for you!

Jul 14, 202219:43
Ep. 35 - Judy Marsales, Broker of Record Judy Marsales Real Estate LTD.

Ep. 35 - Judy Marsales, Broker of Record Judy Marsales Real Estate LTD.

Judy Marsales joins us on the POV Hamilton podcast this week to discuss real estate, arts & culture, and city-building in Hamilton!

You don't want to miss our chat with Judy - the broker of record at Judy Marsales Realty, the first female president of the Realtors' Association of Hamilton/Burlington, a former MPP for Hamilton West, and a passionate supporter of the arts, who you can often find singing in local pubs.

Listen in to hear Judy share memories of the industry when she got started back in the 1980s, thoughts on how real estate has changed in Hamilton, the importance of the arts to our community, and more!

Jul 04, 202219:31
Ep. 34 - Richard Dunda, Director for the Centre for Integrated Transportation and Mobility (CITM)

Ep. 34 - Richard Dunda, Director for the Centre for Integrated Transportation and Mobility (CITM)

Transportation is changing rapidly. As autonomous vehicles and smart cities become the norm, technology commercialization has to evolve to stay on the cutting edge. 

The Centre for Integrated Transportation & Mobility supports start-ups and small-medium-sized companies as they develop the next generation of smart, connected, and environmentally-friendly transportation and technology. 

This week on POV, we're chatting with Richard Dunda, Director of CITM, about how they support companies building this connected future. Tune in to hear Richard share about some of the fascinating companies they're supporting now, CITM's unique smart transportation network infrastructure, and why Hamilton is the perfect place to host a centre focused on multi-modal transportation.

Thanks, Richard and CITM for being on the show!

Jun 16, 202219:54
Ep. 33 - Innovative Energy Solutions with Dr. James Cotton, Professor of Mechanical Engineering McMaster University

Ep. 33 - Innovative Energy Solutions with Dr. James Cotton, Professor of Mechanical Engineering McMaster University

At Hamilton's McMaster University, countless researchers are working each and every day to find innovative, sustainable solutions to the climate crisis.

In today's podcast episode, we're chatting to Dr. James Cotton, a professor of Mechanical Engineering and an expert in Thermal Energy Conversion and Management. Jim and his team are working towards a NetZero future and utilizing the resources and expertise at McMaster (including a nuclear reactor on campus!) to design game-changing energy conservation systems.

This is an absolutely fascinating episode showcasing cutting-edge research happening right here in #HamOnt that has the potential to change the world for the better.

Thanks, Jim for being on the show!

May 30, 202221:50
Ep. 32 - Medora Uppal, Director of Operations at the YWCA Hamilton
May 11, 202222:19
Ep. 31 - Kristin Archer, Blogger and Radio Host

Ep. 31 - Kristin Archer, Blogger and Radio Host

IHeartHamilton is a popular blog and radio show, and founder Kristin Archer joins us on the pod this week to chat all about it!

Tune in to hear Kristin's stories of a changing #HamOnt, her thoughts on the cultural life of our city, the power of social media and influencer marketing, and her hopes and dreams for the future of Hamilton. Plus, she shares some advice on adopting TikTok for business marketing!

Thanks Kristin for taking the time to chat. Make sure you check out IHeartHamilton.ca or catch her radio show every Friday on 93.3 CFMU!

Apr 28, 202214:34
Ep. 30 - Sherif Abdou, Additive Manufacturing Innovation Centre Mohawk College IDEAWORKS
Apr 19, 202215:10
Ep. 29 - Mike Collins-Williams, Chief Executive Officer of the West End Home Builders' Association

Ep. 29 - Mike Collins-Williams, Chief Executive Officer of the West End Home Builders' Association

Interested in entering Hamilton's wild housing market? Have concerns about expansion and development in our downtown and beyond? This week on POV we're featuring a fascinating discussion with Mike Collins-Williams about housing affordability and city building in Hamilton. 

Mike is the new Chief Executive Officer of the West End Home Builders' Association, which represents over 300 regional members across multiple industries including urban planning; construction; housing and high-rise development; utilities; landscaping; marketing; and more! He joins us on the pod to share his point-of-view on our current housing crisis and the future of Hamilton's skyline. 

Thanks so much, Mike for the discussion! 

Mar 21, 202233:50
Ep. 28 - Sarah Wayland and Mohammad Araf, Hamilton Immigration Partnership Council (HIPC)

Ep. 28 - Sarah Wayland and Mohammad Araf, Hamilton Immigration Partnership Council (HIPC)

In this podcast, we dive into Hamilton’s immigration community and chat with Sarah Wayland and Mohammad Araf from Hamilton Immigration Partnership Council (HIPC).

HIPC is a community table that seeks to create a seamless settlement experience for immigrants in Hamilton. With partners from various sectors – including settlement, education, business, health, social services, municipal affairs, and persons with lived immigration experience -- HIPC works together to create a welcoming community with relevant and accessible services.

Sarah and Araf go into detail about HIPC as well as share their experiences with immigration. Don’t miss this episode if you are interested in learning about immigration to Hamilton.

Thank you, Sarah and Araf for taking the time to teach and talk about HIPC!

Mar 09, 202223:39
Ep. 27 - Eddie Lartey, Hamilton YOU Poets & Ainara Alleyne, Ainara's Bookshelf (McMaster Innovation Park / Black History Month Special #3)

Ep. 27 - Eddie Lartey, Hamilton YOU Poets & Ainara Alleyne, Ainara's Bookshelf (McMaster Innovation Park / Black History Month Special #3)

For our final Black History Month special episode, we're sharing the stories of Black youth in #HamOnt doing amazing things in the arts!

Tune in to meet Eddie Lartey from Hamilton YOU Poets, learn all about the organization, the power of poetry in connecting youth across the city, and hear some poetry performances from Eddie and fellow poet Amani.

Then stay tuned to meet inspirational 12-year-old Ainara Alleyne of Ainara's Bookshelf, a rapidly-growing Instagram channel focused on reviewing children's books with diverse representation & interviewing authors.

Thanks again to McMaster Innovation Park for making our #BlackHistoryMonth episodes possible. We've absolutely loved sharing Black points of view from across the city and we hope you've loved listening.

Feb 28, 202214:32
Ep. 26 - Faith Ogunkoya, Black Student Success Centre at McMaster University (McMaster Innovation Park / Black History Month Special #2)

Ep. 26 - Faith Ogunkoya, Black Student Success Centre at McMaster University (McMaster Innovation Park / Black History Month Special #2)

We're continuing our celebration of #BlackHistoryMonth with Faith Ogunkoya of the Black Student Success Centre at McMaster University!

Listen to this week's #podcast to learn how and why the BSSC was founded, what they offer to help Black students at Mac succeed, and the guiding principles that are driving all their actions.

Faith also shares her thoughts on what needs to happen within the community to ensure Black students feel safe and cared for, and what she hopes can happen in the future if we all work together to prioritize Black student wellness and success.

Thanks Faith for sharing your point of view, and thanks McMaster Innovation Park for making this episode possible!

Feb 24, 202222:27
Ep. 25 - Leo Nupolu Johnson, Empowerment Squared (McMaster Innovation Park / Black History Month Special #1)

Ep. 25 - Leo Nupolu Johnson, Empowerment Squared (McMaster Innovation Park / Black History Month Special #1)

February is Black History Month, and we're partnering with McMaster Innovation Park to celebrate business and culture in Hamilton's Black community.

In today's episode, meet Leo Nupolu Johnson, Executive Director of Empowerment Squared. This local organization is dedicated to supporting newcomers through the education system. Leo has a fascinating story to share about his own journey to Canada and why he's now helping kids find the support they need.

Listen in to hear about Leo's partnership with the UN, his thoughts around the idea of donation vs. investment, and the importance of lived experience in organization programming. Such an amazing episode you don't want to miss!

Stay tuned for the rest of the month as we continue sharing Black points of view, and thanks to McMaster Innovation Park for making this all possible!

Feb 10, 202213:16
Ep 24 - Cyrus Tehrani, Chief Digital Officer and Director of Innovation for the City of Hamilton

Ep 24 - Cyrus Tehrani, Chief Digital Officer and Director of Innovation for the City of Hamilton

Cyrus Tehrani is Hamilton’s Chief Digital Officer and Director of Innovation, so there’s no one better to speak about what #HamOnt is doing to strive toward excellence in innovation & technology.

Don’t miss this episode if you’re interested in digital pilot programs using AI, CityLab programs bringing innovative opportunities to students, Hamilton’s success in being a globally recognized “Intelligent Community”, or the unique partnership-centred approach the city takes to problem-solving.

Cyrus also talks about what the city is doing to adapt to our pandemic reality around remote work, online service delivery, and broadband access; and of course what he sees coming for the future of Hamilton.

Thanks, Cyrus for being on the show and sharing all about what you do!

Feb 04, 202220:08
Innovation Factory TAKEOVER with Chris Buttenham, founder of Obie

Innovation Factory TAKEOVER with Chris Buttenham, founder of Obie

Start-up founders have a challenging journey ahead of them. In today's podcast, we're talking to Chris Buttenham, founder of Obie (now Lessonly Knowledge), a knowledge management software tool that has seen all the amazing highs and lows of start-up life. 

From founding the company and realizing he didn't know a thing, heading to the Innovation Factory for help, searching for co-founders, participating in competitions and programs all over North America, pivoting numerous times to become the product they are today, weathering downturns and a pandemic, and eventually getting acquired by a larger company and scaling fast, Chris is a founder who's seen it all, but it wasn't ever easy 

The Innovation Factory is dedicated to helping companies like Obie and founders like Chris on their start-up journey. Listen in to hear Chris' story, advice, and learn how IF helped him make his start-up dreams a reality. 

Thanks to Chris for being on the show and to the Innovation Factory for partnering with us on this episode!

Jan 27, 202223:43
Ep 23 - Boris Brott, Symphony and Opera Conductor, and Artistic Director for Brott Music Festival and National Academy Orchestra

Ep 23 - Boris Brott, Symphony and Opera Conductor, and Artistic Director for Brott Music Festival and National Academy Orchestra

The POV Hamilton podcast is back for 2022 with a fantastic episode featuring the one and only Maestro Boris Brott! A symphony and opera conductor and founder of the Brott Music Festival and National Academy Orchestra (among many other orchestra and opera programs across the world), Boris has made his home in Hamilton and has a mission to provide world-class education and training opportunities for Canadian musicians.

Check out this fascinating episode to hear Boris share his own story of pursuing music, working around the world, and eventually settling in Hamilton. He shares what it's been like for arts organizations having to pivot and innovate in the age of lockdown restrictions, and shares some teasers on what the Brott Music Festival has planned for this upcoming summer.

We have so many fantastic episodes planned for the next few months, and we're so happy to kick things off with Boris' story. Listen now on Anchor, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

Jan 19, 202228:04
Ep 22 - Jordan Rakowski, Educator and Principal, Brainstorm Academy

Ep 22 - Jordan Rakowski, Educator and Principal, Brainstorm Academy

On this week's POV Hamilton Podcast we dive into the educational scene by chatting with Jordan Rakowski! Jordan started his tutoring business, Brainstorm Academy, after graduating from McMaster University. He is now one of the lead educators and principal for Brainstorm Academy. 

In this episode, Jordan talks about how he got into education and why it's an interesting space to be in and the changing nature of education today, especially during covid with the switch to online learning. Jordan also explores the idea of 'micro-specialization' and how online learning presents new opportunities for students to learn about things they never would have otherwise and become experts.

Jordan offers an interesting perspective on today's education and this podcast is one you sure don't want to miss!

For more information about Brainstorm Academy visit: https://www.brainstormacademy.ca/ 

Dec 09, 202123:03
Ep 21 - John Ellison, Singer, Songwriter and Producer

Ep 21 - John Ellison, Singer, Songwriter and Producer

We're thrilled to share our first-ever musical episode of the POV Hamilton podcast, featuring the songs, stories, and wisdom of legendary soul musician John Ellison! Best known for writing the classic song 'Some Kind of Wonderful', John has made his home in Hamilton for decades and his love for the city has grown alongside his song's fame. 

Listen in to hear John share stories from his fascinating life, speak about the hardships and racism he faced in the music industry, and discuss his food business and activism amid the Black Lives Matter protests in recent years. He also performs a few tunes for us; so you definitely don't want to miss this episode!

Nov 23, 202119:39
Ep 20 - McMaster University LIVELab featuring Dr. Laurel Trainor
Nov 16, 202126:22
Innovation Factory TAKEOVER with Altus Assessments
Nov 09, 202131:14
Ep 19 - Tim Potocic, owner of Sonic Unyon Records, founder and director of Supercrawl

Ep 19 - Tim Potocic, owner of Sonic Unyon Records, founder and director of Supercrawl

The POV Hamilton #podcast is diving into the #HamOnt arts scene!

In our newest episode, we sit down with Tim Potocic, owner of Sonic Unyon Records, founder and director of Supercrawl, and a lifelong Hamiltonian and community advocate.

Tim’s point of view is unique and you don’t want to miss this special episode! Listen in to find out what’s been going on behind the scenes for Supercrawl and Sonic Unyon during the pandemic, and what plans Tim & his team have for the future of live music in the city.

Tim also shares the inspiration behind the Supercrawl festival and his own story of growing up cleaning dirty north end Hamilton bars. Finally, he talks about the future of Hamilton and what he thinks the city needs to do moving forward to ensure the revitalization of our downtown is fair and successful for all.

Thanks, Tim for taking the time to chat with us!

Oct 21, 202130:41
Ep 18 - Larissa & Abigail, CoMotion on King
Oct 12, 202116:05
Ep 17 - LiONS Lair Special Part 2
Sep 29, 202120:09
Ep. 16 - LiONS's Lair Special Part 1
Sep 22, 202131:02
Ep. 15 - Dr. Gay Yuyitung, The Forge

Ep. 15 - Dr. Gay Yuyitung, The Forge

The Forge is McMaster University’s start-up incubator. Working with companies from Mac and the wider community, they help start-ups develop their ideas, grow their businesses, reach new markets, raise capital, and expand right here in #HamOnt.

In this podcast episode, we chat with Dr. Gay Yuyitung, Acting Director of The Forge, all about the origins of The Forge, their programs (including the shift to online challenges in the Covid era) and how their mentorship and co-working space helps companies succeed.

Listen in to hear Gay share success stories about Forge companies, talk about what makes Hamilton great for start-ups, and take a guess at what the future holds for Hamilton, McMaster, and the Forge community.

Sep 09, 202116:32
Innovation Factory TAKEOVER with Pretto's Pasta

Innovation Factory TAKEOVER with Pretto's Pasta

This week Hamilton's catalyst for tech innovation, the Innovation Factory, is taking over the pod, and if you have a business in the food processing space, you won't want to miss it!

In this episode we meet Arvid Rimkus of Pretto's Pasta, who has taken a 50-year old local recipe for lasagna and turned it into a rapidly-growing business thanks to the mentors and services at the Innovation Factory. He and IF Executive-In-Residence John Holland sit down with us to discuss the history of the Pretto's and what makes their signature lasagna the best on the market, how IF helped him turn his business around and modernize his production line, why he's so committed to local ingredients, and why Hamilton is the best place for a business like his. Plus, they both share tips for start-up companies on how to make it work, make change, and stay true to your core value. 

Innovation Factory is a business accelerator, dedicated to helping Ontario-based businesses launch, scale, and succeed. They provide start-ups, and scaling companies with advisory services, training, mentorship, and strategic connections to help bring disruptive technologies to market, leverage intellectual property, increase revenues, attract investment and create jobs. Thanks to the team at IF for introducing us to Arvid's story!

Enjoy Arvid, John, and the story of Prettos Pasta on the POV Podcast this week!

Aug 18, 202127:40
Ep. 14 - BLK OWNED HAMONT, Ashleigh & Alexandria Montague

Ep. 14 - BLK OWNED HAMONT, Ashleigh & Alexandria Montague

The POV #podcast is back this week with the founders of BLK OWNED HamOnt - sisters Ashleigh & Alexandria Montague (their third sister Abygail couldn't make it for recording but was there in spirit!)

Listen in to hear the story of BLK OWNED; from its original launch after 2020's BlackOut Tuesday when they saw a lot of performative activism online, to putting together a list of 150+ Hamilton businesses and some wildly popular social media channels, these sisters have grown their platform into an incredible resource and platform for Black business owners in the city and have no plans of slowing down soon.

In this episode, Ashleigh & Alex share all about how using purchasing power is an accessible form of activism, the results of a major survey they conducted of black-owned businesses in the city, and their future plans, including for a Black Youth Entrepreneurship Hub.

You definitely don't want to miss this fantastic episode; thanks Ashleigh & Alexandria for being on the show!

Aug 13, 202120:52
Ep. 13 - Erin Dunham, The Other Bird Restaurant Group

Ep. 13 - Erin Dunham, The Other Bird Restaurant Group

Erin Dunham and her colleagues are trying to change the restaurant industry for the better.

In this week’s #podcast, we sit down with the Co-Owner & CEO of The Other Bird, a restaurant group which owns and manages The Mule, Rapscallion, Burro, and popular restaurants in London and Paris (Ontario!)

In this episode Erin, a born-and-raised Hamiltonian, talks about her journey through the restaurant ranks, her view on how to create respectful and safe workplaces for service workers, Rapscallion restaurant’s recent move to James Street North, and why this city is bursting with great restaurants and food districts.

Hope you enjoy listening and thanks Erin for your time!

Jul 28, 202112:01
Ep. 12 - Lisa Knap, Journalist & Educational Consultant, Barclay Educational

Ep. 12 - Lisa Knap, Journalist & Educational Consultant, Barclay Educational

Lisa Knap entered the world of education after 20+ years as a TV and radio journalist. With decades of experience teaching and mentoring, she joined Barclay Educational Services to bring a new perspective and an innovative mindset to this local guidance counselling firm, which is located at the McMaster Innovation Park and helps hundreds of students every year. At Barclay, Lisa and the team help Canadian students find the right career and education pathways, as well as assist those wanting to study overseas in Europe. 

In this episode, Lisa talks about her career journey, what led her to pursue educational consulting, and how Barclay helps students maximize their potential through overseas programs. She also shares her point of view on the state of local journalism and the future of Hamilton.

Thanks for the chat, Lisa!

Jul 22, 202118:05
Ep. 11 - Monika Yazdanian, ToeFX

Ep. 11 - Monika Yazdanian, ToeFX

In this week’s new episode we were thrilled to speak to Monika Yazdanian, CEO of ToeFX, a company on a mission to rid the world of onychomycosis.

A former director of The Forge and a central figure in Hamilton’s start-up ecosystem, we talk to Monika in this episode about her own story and ask her to reflect on the rapid growth of the start-up ecosystem in Hamilton, how to measure this growth, and whether ‘growth’ is really the best thing to measure

Listen in to hear Monika teach us about innovation inputs and outputs, as well as share all about the story of ToeFX, including their recent win at the Synapse Life Science Competition and what this fast-growing life science company is working on next. Finally, she reflects on what makes Hamilton a good place to live and work and what we can do better.

Thanks for taking the time to chat with us Monika!

Jul 07, 202114:53
Ep. 10 - Brandon Aubie, QReserve

Ep. 10 - Brandon Aubie, QReserve

It's another #MadeInHamilton start-up success story on the pod this week as we talk to Brandon Aubie, Co-Founder & CEO of QReserve. This ever-growing software platform started when Brandon solved a scheduling problem he & his colleagues had in their McMaster University lab, and realized that many others likely had the same problem too. 

In this episode, Brandon talks about his own history as an entrepreneur, the importance of solving real-world problems when it comes to creating a viable company, and the journey that QReserve has been on since being part of the very first cohort in Hamilton's The Forge incubator back in 2013. He also shares what new features QReserve has been working on and some advice for those with their own solution that they want to commercialize. 

Thanks for being part of the show, Brandon!

Jun 21, 202119:04
Ep. 9 - Karen Mossman, McMaster University

Ep. 9 - Karen Mossman, McMaster University

Karen Mossman is VP of Research at McMaster University, Chair of the Board of McMaster Innovation Park, and an accomplished virologist and researcher herself. She joins us on the pod this week to discuss McMaster’s research excellence and why research is so fundamental to what the university does every day when it comes to creating global citizens and global impact.

In this episode Karen explains in detail the ecosystem built up around McMaster to help students innovate and commercialize their ideas. She also talks about her own groundbreaking research in virology and the new Global Nexus Pandemic Research Centre coming soon to MIP. Finally, she shares why it’s such an exciting time to be researching at Mac and here in Hamilton.

Thanks for taking time to chat with us, Karen!

Jun 10, 202121:05
Ep. 8 - Mark Chamberlain, Corporate and Social Innovation

Ep. 8 - Mark Chamberlain, Corporate and Social Innovation

A business and innovation leader in Hamilton since the 1980s, Mark Chamberlain has played a pivotal role in the development of our innovation ecosystem. From his role as the head of technology companies Wescam and later, Trivarus, and his position on the boards of organizations like the Ontario Centres of Excellence and McMaster University, he helped develop the Innovation Park, Innovation Factory, and our entire ecosystem in Hamilton today, including hiring major #HamOnt names (and former podcast guests!) like Keanin Loomis, David Carter, and Ty Shattuck.

In this episode, Mark shares his point of view on the history and development of innovation in Hamilton, and what drives change. Plus, he shares how he became a leader in social innovation. Inspired by his son Mike, Mark is leading a charge to build a safer community and keep Hamilton kids active and healthy, all to ensure a positive future for our city.

Thanks for taking the time to chat with us, Mark!

Jun 03, 202123:47
Ep. 7 - Kimberly Elliott, VoxNeuro

Ep. 7 - Kimberly Elliott, VoxNeuro

Kimberly Elliott is Co-Founder and COO of VoxNeuro, an up-and-coming life sciences technology company based in Hamilton. Commercializing groundbreaking research out of McMaster University, VoxNeuro objectively and accurately assesses cognitive function by analyzing the electrical activity in the brain, and has had incredible traction so far in bringing this technology to market. 

In this episode, Kimberly shares the story of VoxNeuro, from early patient breakthroughs, to the company's start after incorporating and the learning curve they experienced in navigating a complex landscape. She talks about VoxNeuro's growth through the years, and where they're headed next, plus discusses in detail the start-up and life sciences ecosystem in Hamilton that has supported their company's growth every step of the way.

Listen in to hear a #MadeInHamilton start-up success story! Thanks Kim for being on the show.

May 20, 202111:27
Ep. 6 - David Carter, Innovation Factory

Ep. 6 - David Carter, Innovation Factory

David Carter is the Executive Director of the Innovation Factory. From training and mentorship to resources, advice, pitch competitions and beyond, IF helps companies expand and innovate in Hamilton. 

In this episode, he talks with us about how IF has expanded over the years to include the Synapse Life Science Consortium and Centre for Integrated Transportation and Mobility, as well as shares what the recent $6 Million investment from FedEv means for the future of the city. He talks about the importance of networking at IF events and why he thinks companies should consider Hamilton rather than traditional innovation hubs like Waterloo or Toronto. Finally, he shares success stories from #MadeInHamilton companies that IF has helped on their journey. 

Thanks for being on the show Dave!

May 12, 202116:56
Ep. 5 - Peter Kalra, Bay Area Health Trust

Ep. 5 - Peter Kalra, Bay Area Health Trust

Peter Kalra is the CEO of Bay Area Health Trust, a unique company that exists to support life sciences in #HamOnt. From commercializing research out of McMaster and St. Joe’s Hospital, to investing in new life science companies, to operating global logistics chains for Hamilton-based research institutes, BAHT is driving Hamilton’s life sciences sector into the future.

In this episode, Peter shares all about the trust’s recent successes and community support, and takes out his crystal ball to guess what the future of the city holds.

May 05, 202116:30
Ep. 4 - Keanin Loomis, Hamilton Chamber of Commerce

Ep. 4 - Keanin Loomis, Hamilton Chamber of Commerce

Keanin Loomis is the President of the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, Hamilton's oldest institution. The Chamber represents over 1000 member businesses from across the city and advocates for their economic prosperity. 

In this episode, Keanin talks with us about the Chamber's founding by Hamilton's industrialists and its development through the years. He shares some current priorities, including advocating for Hamilton's LRT, and discusses some of the business sectors which he sees innovating across the city. Finally, he shares his recollections around the development of James Street North and founding of Supercrawl, and how the revitalization of downtown is shaping the future of Hamilton. 

Apr 28, 202122:48
Ep. 3 - Jennifer Patterson, Hamilton Economic Development

Ep. 3 - Jennifer Patterson, Hamilton Economic Development

Hamilton's department of Economic Development exists because industry exists; they support existing businesses in Hamilton and work to bring new businesses here too. Jennifer Patterson is the Manager of Business Investment and Sector Development with the department, and she sits down with us in this episode to share her Point of View on what makes Hamilton a great city to live, work, and invest in. 

Listen in to hear Jennifer share info on our diverse economy's key sectors and what she envisions for their future, as well as pay tribute to former department head Neil Everson, who was in many ways the architect of this city department's success.

Thanks for joining us, Jen! 

Apr 21, 202116:41