In this episode of Ottawa Business Matters, host Sam Laprade discusses key developments in the Ottawa business community with leaders from the Ottawa Board of Trade, Invest Ottawa, and the city government. Sueling Ching, President and CEO of the Ottawa Board of Trade, highlights the recent 167th Annual General Meeting and their initiatives to invigorate the local economy. City Manager Wendy Stephanson shares her vision for the city's development and the importance of women in leadership...

In this episode of Ottawa Business Matters, Sam Laprade interviews Sueling Ching, President and CEO of the Ottawa Board of Trade. They discuss the highlights of the 167th Annual General Meeting, the Board's recent activities, and the positive business atmosphere as the city emerges from the pandemic. The episode also explores the successes of the 40 Under 40 event and the enthusiasm surrounding Sonia Shorey's appointment as President of Invest Ottawa. Additionally, Ching emphasizes the...

In this episode, Sam interviews Wendy Stephanson, the first female city manager of Ottawa, about her experiences and initiatives since her appointment. Wendy shares insights into female leadership, the importance of collaboration with the Ottawa Board of Trade, and efforts to boost the city's economy, housing, and community well-being. They discuss the city's growing vibrancy, the challenges it faces, and the transformative projects in place to shape Ottawa's future. Wendy also reflects on...

In this episode, Sam hosts Brendan McGuinty, the chair of the Ottawa Board of Trade. McGuinty shares insights into the goals and achievements of the board, highlighting its commitment to balanced economic growth and the importance of collaboration with various sectors. The conversation covers the diverse and inclusive nature of Ottawa's business community, the challenges posed by the post-pandemic environment, and the strategies for revitalizing the downtown core amid changing work patterns....

Eric Saumure from Zenbooks, who was recently honored as a 40 Under 40 awardee joins Sam Laprade to get his reaction to receiving the award, the camaraderie with other winners, and how Zenbooks stands out by utilizing modern technology to simplify accounting for small business owners and nonprofit leaders. He shares his journey of balancing business success with personal challenges, including his recent achievements and community involvement. Eric provides valuable insights into the highs and...

In this episode of Ottawa Business Matters, host Sam Laprade delves into various facets of the Ottawa business community. Featuring an in-depth discussion with Alain Minguelez, Vice President of Capital Planning at the National Capital Commission (NCC), who shares insights on current and future city planning projects. Dr. Vera Etches, Medical Officer of Health for the City of Ottawa, highlights the latest mental health initiatives and the importance of collaborative efforts for city...

Host Sam Laprade sits down with Alain Minguelez, Vice President of Capital Planning at the National Capital Commission (NCC). Alain discusses his role as Chief Planner, overseeing numerous projects aiming to enhance livability in Ottawa. Highlights include the redevelopment of Nepean Point into Kiewecki Point, upgrades to Lady Grey Wall and Rideau Canal lights, and new ventures like bistros at Bate Island, Leamy Lake, and Hogsback Park. Emphasizing collaboration with entities like the Ottawa...

In this episode of Ottawa Business Matters, host Sam Laprade sits down for an in-depth conversation with Dr. Vera Etches, the Medical Officer of Health for the City of Ottawa. They discuss the pivotal role Dr. Etches played during the pandemic, the importance of mental health resources for businesses, and the launch of a new toolkit by the Ottawa Public Health. The conversation highlights ongoing collaborations with the Ottawa Board of Trade, the impact of urban planning on public health, and...

In this episode, Jacqueline Belsito, President of the Senators Community Foundation, discusses her role in revitalizing the foundation and her extensive career journey. With a background in high tech, marketing, and philanthropy, Belsito shares insights into her strategic and community-oriented approach to fundraising. She highlights the foundation's efforts in tackling significant city issues like housing, education, and youth support. Belsito also talks about the importance of mentorship,...

In this episode of Ottawa Business Matters, host Sam Laprade interviews Bill Ayyad, COO of TAAG. They discuss the significant growth of TAAG since Bill joined in 2020, expanding from a small team to over 80 employees despite the pandemic. Bill highlights TAAG’s comprehensive suite of services, including accounting, tax, law, marketing and design, and wealth management, all under one roof. The conversation also covers TAAG's deep community involvement through initiatives like sponsorships of...

In this episode of Ottawa Business Matters, host Sam Laprade, joined by Sueling Ching, President and CEO of the Ottawa Board of Trade, discusses the Ottawa business growth survey and the positive influence of business leaders on municipal governance and community building. Special guests include Mark Goudie, President and CEO of OSEG, Roger Greenberg, Chair of the Ottawa Hospital Foundation campaign, and David Ross, CEO of Ross Video. They explore topics ranging from Lansdowne redevelopment,...

In this episode of Ottawa Business Matters, host Sam Laprade speaks with Sueling Ching, President and CEO of the Ottawa Board of Trade. The discussion covers the Ottawa business growth survey, revealing insights into local business confidence and support for the city's municipal government. Sueling highlights the importance of business leaders in shaping Ottawa's future and the roles of music, film, design, and community wealth building in economic development. The show also previews upcoming...

In this episode, we welcome Mark Goudie, the President and CEO of Ottawa Sports and Entertainment Group (OSEG). Mark provides an in-depth look at OSEG's role in managing the Lansdowne district through its partnership with the City of Ottawa. He highlights OSEG’s diverse slate of activities, from sports teams like the Red Blacks and 67s to various cultural events, and the initiatives they’ve spearheaded to rejuvenate Lansdowne as a key city hub. Mark also discusses future plans under Lansdowne...

In this episode, Sam speaks with Roger Greenberg, the Executive Chairman of Minto and the Chairman of the Board of Minto Apartment REIT, about his various roles in the city and his leadership in the new civic campus campaign. Roger discusses the importance of the new facility being built on Preston and Carling Avenue, which will replace the outdated civic hospital. He shares personal connections to the civic hospital and details the ambitious $500 million fundraising campaign aimed at...

In this episode, we meet the inspirational David Ross, CEO of Ross Video. David shares the fascinating journey of Ross Video, founded by his father in the basement of their home in 1974. Over the years, the company has grown into a major player in high-end video production worldwide, involved in significant events like the Super Bowl, Taylor Swift concerts, and major newsrooms. David talks about the company's roots in Canada, their commitment to paying living wages during the pandemic, and...

In this episode of 'Ottawa Business Matters,' host Sam Laprade talks with Sueling Ching, President and CEO of the Ottawa Board of Trade. They discuss various initiatives aimed at revitalizing downtown Ottawa, including the Downtown Ottawa Action Plan and the Byward Market developments. The conversation highlights the importance of arts and culture, direct flights to Ottawa, and local business growth. They also touch upon the upcoming 40 under 40 awards and the role of young leaders in shaping...

Sam Laprade is joined by Zach Dayler, Executive Director of the Byward Market District Authority, who discusses the market's history, its upcoming 200th anniversary, and plans for revitalizing the area. Key points include the ambitious downtown action agenda by the Ottawa Board of Trade aiming to attract 40,000 new residents to the core, and efforts to enhance public spaces and events in Byward Market and Parkdale Market. Zach emphasizes the importance of public engagement and the collective...

In this episode of Ottawa Business Matters, host Sam Laprade features discussions with key players in Ottawa's business community. Zach Dayler, Executive Director of the Byward Market District Authority, talks about the market's upcoming anniversary and revitalization plans. Krista Kealey from the Ottawa Airport Authority discusses new airline routes and future development plans. Christine Crump, President of the Rideau Carleton Casino, shares exciting news about the upcoming Hard Rock...

Host Sam Laprade talks with Christine Crump, President of the Rideau Carleton Casino, about the exciting transition to the Future Hard Rock Casino, Ottawa's first Hard Rock International property. They discuss the anticipated impact on the city's entertainment scene, employment opportunities, and local economy. Christine emphasizes Hard Rock's commitment with a $350 million investment and highlights plans for four entertainment stages, a hotel, multiple dining options, and unique memorabilia....

Krista Kealey, Vice President of Communications and Public Engagement for the Ottawa Airport Authority, speaks about the latest exciting changes and developments at Ottawa Airport. Krista discusses major growth initiatives, including the terminal revitalization program YOW Plus, the addition of new local concessionaires like La Bottega and Bridgehead, and the ongoing construction of the Alt Hotel. We also hear about the airport's strategic importance to airlines such as Air France and Porter,...

In this episode of Ottawa Business Matters, host Sam Laprade welcomes Neil Malhotra, CFO of Claridge Homes. Neil discusses the history and evolution of Claridge Homes, his family's significant impact on Ottawa's housing market, and their philanthropic efforts. The conversation delves into the challenges and goals for developing affordable housing in Ottawa, particularly downtown. Neil highlights the importance of the city's Downtown Action Agenda and the need for creative solutions to...

In this episode of Ottawa Business Matters, host Sam Laprade discusses the significant efforts to revitalize Ottawa's downtown post-pandemic with Sueling Ching, President and CEO of the Ottawa Board of Trade. They delve into the recently launched 'Living Capital' action agenda, its vision for a live, work, and play environment, and the necessity of community involvement to achieve its four major goals. Later, Kevin McHale, Executive Director of Spark Street BIA, shares insights on the history...

In this heartwarming interview, Pam and Grant Hooker, founders of Beaver Tails, share the sweet journey of turning a family recipe into an iconic Canadian treat. Discover how a modest start at a local fair grew into a nationwide business, with highlights including serving at presidential inaugurations and receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award. The Hookers reflect on their shared experiences, the challenges they faced, and their ongoing involvement in the Canadian Tulip Festival. Through it...

In this episode Kevin McHale, Executive Director of the Spark Street BIA joins Sam Laprade and shares the storied history of Spark Street, Canada’s first pedestrian street, and discusses its evolution since 1961. He highlights the resilience of local business owners and the street's role as a dynamic downtown hub. Kevin emphasizes the importance of engaging events, community collaboration, and innovative initiatives to create a vibrant and welcoming space for residents and visitors. He also...