This episode of Ottawa Business Matters, hosted by Sam Laprade delves into the many facets of supporting and fostering growth within Ottawa's business community. It features discussions on the critical role of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the economy, including their substantial contribution to employment and the cultural landscape. Special attention is given to the importance of local advocacy, networking opportunities, and the push for buying and hiring locally as means to stimulate the community’s economic and social fabric. Guests include Sueling Ching, President and CEO of the Ottawa Board of Trade, Chantall Yelle from Hire Local Ottawa, and Kathrynin Tremblay, CEO of Altis Recruitment, shedding light on various initiatives aimed at building a supportive and competitive business environment in Ottawa. The episode also highlights the inspirational journey of Marc Plante, founder of Stray Dog Brewery, illustrating the profound impact of local businesses on their communities. Together, the discussions underscore the collective effort and passion driving the success and vibrancy of Ottawa's local business scene.   00:00 Welcome to Ottawa Business Matters 00:52 Spotlight on SMEs: The Backbone of Ottawa's Economy 03:40 The Power of Buying and Hiring Local 12:48 Chantall Yelle on the Importance of Hiring Local Talent 25:02 Kathryn Tremblay: CEO of the Year Shares Her Journey 30:06 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome 30:53 The Power of Mentorship and Embracing Vulnerability 32:12 Navigating Career Changes and the Importance of Continuous Learning 33:57 Mastering Virtual Interviews in the Modern Job Market 35:39 Busting Myths About Hiring and Emphasizing Personal Growth 37:28 From Homebrewer to Entrepreneur: The Stray Dog Brewery Story 40:44 The Role of Community and Networking in Business Success 48:32 Crafting Creativity and Innovation in the Beer Industry 49:17 The Philosophy Behind Stray Dog Brewery 50:15 Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations and Supporting Local Read the full transcript here: https://share.descript.com/view/M3EtGnf1No8