In today's show, Chris interviews Marcus Vandenbrink, CEO, Business View Publishing and a serial entrepreneur. This show starts off with Marcus sharing his background information. Marcus, always a hard worker showed signs of entrepreneurship as a kid too. However, once in high school, Marcus faced confusion and loss of focus that is common to many of us. How did enrolling into the Student Works program help Chris find clarity again? Apart from building his sales skills, Marcus reveals that his Student Works stint also helped him hone his recruiting and time management skills. In this segment of the show, you will learn the importance of continuous learning to become the best version of yourself. Next, Marcus shares some interesting details about this first entrepreneurial venture, Swifttrade - the first direct access trading platform in Canada. How did Swifttrade become one of the fastest growing companies in Canada? And, why did Marcus sell a highly profitable and growing business? Listening to Marcus will make you realize the importance of exiting a business at an opportune time. How and why did Marcus transition to the energy business after selling Swifttrade? Marcus shares how his Student Works network helped him find a new business opportunity in the form of Energy One Canda. You will learn how solid foundational skills can help you find success even in a competitive business field. After selling his business Direct Energy, Marcus dabbled in real estate development for a while before making a shift to the corporate world. As an Executive VP of an international publishing company, Marcus shares how he managed to turn around the company’s dismal North American operations. In this segment of the show, we realize that transferable skillsets can give you great flexibility and render you a good fit in any industry. But, why did Marcus quit this job in spite of finding tremendous success? As the entrepreneurial bug bit Marcus again, he decided to form his own publishing company. Marcus reveals how building and retaining a dream team has helped him gain traction in his latest venture. Towards the end, we learn some of the biggest learnings that Marcus has imbibed from his failures. Tune in for some excellent insights! Links: Connect with Marcus: LinkedIn   Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In today's show, we share the importance of setting a BHAG - a Big Hairy Audacious Goal. Have you set goals that scare you to death? Are your goals aligned with your core business philosophy? Chris shares how cultivating a BHAG can motivate you to put it in your absolute best and truly make a difference in this world. Chris also reveals his own BHAG - a goal so big that he was too frightened to even share initially. Tune in to this short but powerful show now!     Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In this episode, Chris interviews Amer Abu Shakra, Business Owner, Student Works Painting This show starts off with Amer sharing some excellent goal-setting Tips and Tricks. Adamant on breaking the all-time sales record of $310,000 at Student Works, Amer upped the stakes significantly by setting a sales target of $500,000!  Should you set a goal that scares you to death? Will an audacious goal motivate you to better yourself, and perform at a level, that you previously thought impossible? Once you have set your goals, you need a well-structured execution plan that will help you achieve your grand vision. Amer shares how networking with the Student Works Community has helped him hone his business skills. At Student Works, you are encouraged to reach out to the top performers to discover the main drivers of their success. In this segment, we discuss the importance of keeping an open mind and continuous learning. What are some crucial attributes of top performers? Amer also shares that top performers have the wisdom and humility to recognize their strengths, and more importantly their weakness. Leveraging your strengths and delegating out tasks that you are not good at is crucial for scaling up and growing your business. Amer reveals how focusing on sales, his core competency has allowed him to hit his audacious sales targets. Did Amer foresee himself running a $500,000 business before he joined Student Works? Amer is honest enough to admit that his Student Works stint has helped him evolve into a more capable person. Amer also expresses gratitude to his 14-employee team and reveals that collaborative team effort is central to the success of any business. Apart from this, you will also learn the importance of doing business with integrity and complete transparency. Towards the end, Amer shares some crucial attributes that define a "Leader of Tomorrow". Tune in for some excellent insights!   Links: Connect with Amer: LinkedIn   Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In today's short but powerful solo, Chris reveals a powerful two-step process for finding success. Firstly, Chris urges leaders to set a schedule, and stick to it, come what may. Setting a schedule with also allow you to maintain your focus on the crucial tasks that matter the most to you and your business. Once you have mastered the art of setting and sticking to a schedule, Chris shares his second step - persistent and continuous skill development and improvement. Are you taking any concrete and effective steps to improve your skills? Are you constantly striving to get better and better? Tune in to hear how you can set up a powerful foundation for success. Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In this episode, Chris interviews Sean Kelly, Client Director, Gartner. Sean provides us with an insider’s peek into some of the world’s biggest organizations and reveals some best practices that enable these organizations to retain and attract the best talent. This show starts off with Sean recalling his life before Student Works. How did Sean evolve from a shy, introvert to a sales champion at some of the biggest organizations? You will learn how Student Works helped Sean clear up his fuzzy vision, and helped him develop habits and values that propelled him to the top of the corporate ladder. How did Sean end up working at Xerox after his Student Works stint? Was it a conscious career move? Listeners will also get a “peek” into the inside culture at Xerox. Sean reveals the systems, processes and HR practices that continue to fuel the powerhouse that is Xerox. In this segment of the show, listeners will also learn why an incentive-based culture helps create a win-win for employees as well as employers. Next, Sean shares WHY he transitioned to Gartner, the world’s biggest research and advisory firm that is clocking annual revenues of $4 billion. What services does Gartner provide to its clients? And, what is Sean’s role at Gartner? Sean compares the work cultures at Gartner and Xerox and discusses why he chose to continue with a sales position at Gartner. Towards the end, Sean shares some excellent Tips for folks who are planning on starting a sales career. How do you if you are cut out for sales? If you are serious about sales, which are some important skills that will help you gain traction? While wrapping up, Sean shares some crucial attributes that define a “Leader of Tomorrow”. For all this and much more, tune in to our latest show now!   Links: Connect with Sean: LinkedIn   Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In today's solo, Chris talks about the impact that personal development can have on your business. In order to demonstrate the importance of personal development in business, Chris recounts a past experience with a client. While dealing with a particularly obstinate client, Chris lost his cool and behaved in a manner which was quite unlike him. So, which are some of the main personality traits that can affect your leadership capabilities? In this show we discuss three common weaknesses - Being too defensive, too nice and having low self-worth. You will learn how tackling with your biggest fears can make you a better person and a leader. Tune in for some inspiring nuggets!   Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In this episode, Chris interviews Kory MacKinnon, a real estate strategist, author, and speaker who also runs a successful six-figure coaching business. In this show, Kory shares how a strategic and progressive mindset can help you build your own real estate investment portfolio. This show starts off with Kory sharing his background information and recalling his life before Student Works. What was Kory’s biggest frustration as a teenager? Kory touches upon a common and highly relevant topic that is likely to resonate with most of us – the struggle to find the right vehicle that will launch you to success. Next, Kory shares with listeners his Student Works experience. What were some important values that Kory imbibed that are helping him to date? Specifically, Kory reveals how Student Works hones your social skills and helps you evolve into a champion salesman. You will also learn how you can avoid succumbing to stress and overwhelm by being solution-oriented rather than problem oriented.  This serves as a good segue to the next topic of discussion – Kory’s real estate investing career. How did Kory end up investing in his first real estate deal? How did it pan out? What, according to Kory, are some crucial attributes personality traits found in a successful real estate investor? This section of the show will be particularly interesting to all current (and aspiring) real estate investors. You will learn the importance of a well-rounded real estate education. We also reveal the ideal tenant profile that will help generate stable returns on your real estate investment. What is the difference between real estate investing and stock market investing? Is it true that you can lose your shirt (and everything else) if you make poor real estate investments? Are apartments buildings more difficult to manage compared to mobile storage parks? Kory also shares his thoughts on mentorship, and recalls his experience as a Tony Robbin’s mentee! Listeners will learn the ART of breaking down complicated processes into lucid and meaningful ones. In the last segment of the show, Kory makes some honest and thought provoking admissions about his biggest failures. What lessons did he learn from these mistakes? Kory also has some excellent advice for all young folks who are planning on taking the entrepreneurial route. Towards the end, Kory shares some crucial attributes that define a “Leader of Tomorrow”. For all this and much more, tune in to our latest show now!     Links: Connect with Kory: Website   Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In today's solo, Chris deviates from the norm to talk about a prevalent but often-ignored topic - disappointment. Whether you are a business leader or aspiring to be one, the sooner you learn to stomach disappointment, the better. Chris reveals that as a leader and entrepreneur, you will have to take tough decisions that further your business. Chris reminds us, that as leaders, it is not our job to keep everyone happy. Even if you do your best, unhappy staff members and unhappy clients are inevitable. Tune in to our authentic and realistic show now!   Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In this episode, Chris interviews Jonathan Suter, co-founder, SimpleTax. Jonathan shares how grit, ingenuity and focus can help you quit your corporate job, follow your dreams, and start your business. This show starts off with Jonathan sharing his background information and his life before Student Works. Did Jonathan always have a huge appetite for hard work? Jonathan shares some inspiring (and funny) anecdotes that are sure to interest you. You will also learn about Jonathan’s first work stint at Nortel, touted back then as “a safe haven” for those looking for a stable career. What lessons did Jonathan learn when his entire department was axed overnight? Next, Jonathan shares his Student Works experience and reveals the important and universally applicable lessons that he learned while there. Particularly, Jonathan highlights the need to cultivate unwavering focus. Listeners will learn how focus is necessary for delivering a successful and sustainable product. Chris and Jonathan also remind listeners that the road to success is laden with many challenges – challenges that test our patience, courage, and ingenuity. After Student Works, Jonathan worked in the technology sector for a while now. While this experience was rewarding for Jonathan, he always harbored entrepreneurial ambitions. However, like most of us, Jonathan was not willing to give up his job security unless the “perfect business opportunity” knocking on his door. So, did that eventually happen? What led Jonathan to finally give up the comfort of his job and don the entrepreneurial hat? In our last and perhaps, more interesting segment, you will hear Jonathan talk about SimpleTax, a company that he co-founded along with his wife, Allison. Jonathan reveals his strong “Why” behind starting SimpleTax. He also reveals his amazing “pay what you make like” business model. How has SimpleTax managed to survive (and thrive) with such a unique payment model? What position does SimpleTax hold in the DIY tax space today? Towards the end, Jonathan shares some crucial attributes that define a “Leader of Tomorrow”. For all this and much more, tune in to our latest show now!   Links: Connect with Jonathan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathansuter/   Resources: SimpleTax Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In this solo show, Chris reveals the many advantages of joining a Mastermind - and how doing so can help you better grasp the complex nuances of your business. Why did Chris join Entrepreneur's Organization nearly 25 years back? Does joining a Mastermind help you attain far greater clarity about your business? You will learn how a Mastermind like EO can give you a chance to interact with like-minded individuals who share a common passion for business and problem saving. Tune in to this short and powerful show now!   Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In this episode, Chris interviews Carolina Nieto, Driver of PWC’s NextGen program. Carolina shares some crucial human resource practices that make PWC truly a world-class organization. This show starts off with Carolina recalling her life before Student Works. What were some of her biggest frustrations? And, what important lessons did Carolina imbibe at Student Works which helped her later on in her corporate life? How can you get into a world-class organization like PWC? What are some important attributes that PWC looks for in a new hire? Carolina also shares some interesting details about her work responsibilities. You will learn how organizations like PWC overcome huge professional challenges. Carolina also reveals the importance of delegating tasks to the right people who will get the job done. Towards the end of the show, Carolina shares some key habits that have held her immensely in her professional life. For all this and much more, tune in to our latest show now!   Links: Connect with Carolina on LinkedIn   Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In today's solo, we discuss why stepping out of your comfort zone is crucial for becoming the best version of yourself. Stepping into the unknown is not easy, and requires our undivided focus. The unknown requires us to overcome new challenges - which are often stressful experiences marked with bouts of uncertainty. However, the exhilaration of winning far surpasses these growth pains. This podcast will be particularly interesting to those who are shying away from embracing some progressive changes in their lives. Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In this episode, Chris interviews Yusudan Ren, Regional Sales Director, Sunlight Financial. Yusudan shares some interesting nuances of the insurance industry and dispels some common misconceptions in this informative show. This show starts off with Yusudan recalling his life before Student Works. Did Yusudan always foster entrepreneurial ambitions? What were some of his biggest frustrations while growing up? And, what were some of the most important lessons that he learned while at Student Works? Next, Yusudan talks about his stint at Sunlight Financial. We get a peek into the work culture at Sunlight. Is the work culture at Sunlight quite different from a technology company?  You will learn the importance of working in a flexible organization that allows you to learn the nuances of a business. Listeners will also get a macro view of the insurance industry. How do insurance companies calculate premiums? We also reveal how insurance companies are increasingly relying on Big Data to crunch their numbers. Towards theend, Yusudan shares some key attributes that truly define a Leader of Tomorrow. Tune in for some excellent insights!   Links: Connect with Yusudan on LinkedIn Website   Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

Good habits are the secret sauce that will propel you to success. In this short but powerful show, we share how you can cultivate and stick to good habits that can bring about a transformational change in your life. Firstly, Chris encourages listeners to recognize the power of good habits. What benefit will you derive on cultivating a good habit? Will a good habit help you develop new capabilities and skills that you have been unsuccessful in developing so far? Now that you have recognized the immense benefit of cultivating a good habit, the next step is to prepare an action plan. Instead of being overly ambitious, Chris urges listeners to concentrate on developing just ONE habit at a time. In this show, we share how, with patience and dedication, you can drive long-term transformational change and enjoy the life and success that you have always yearned for. Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In this episode, Chris interviews Dawson Currie, Area Vice President - Manufacturing, Food & Beverage at NetSuite. Dawson shares some excellent insights for building a collaborative and goal-oriented work cultures. This show starts off with Dawson recalling his life before Student Works. Which important skills did Dawson hone at Student Works? You will learn the importance of developing a good work ethic and adequate communication skills. Next, Dawson shares the stupendous growth that Netsuite has witnessed over the years. Has the Oracle acquisition had a positive impact on Dawson’s career? Dawson also shares how an integrated, all-in-one solution like Netsuite is crucial for managing the heightened complexity of today’s businesses. Listeners will also get an exclusive peek into Netsuite’s work culture. First of all, how do you hire and retain the best and the brightest in a competitive field like software? How do you cultivate a goal driven and entrepreneurial work culture in a corporate setting? This section of the show will be particularly interesting to those working (or thinking or working) in the corporate world. We wrap up this show by sharing some key habits that are commonly found in successful entrepreneurs. Tune in for some excellent insights!   Links: Connect with Dawson on LinkedIn Website   Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

We all know the importance of a good night's sleep. But buckling under work and family responsibilities, we often push ourselves and scrimp on our precious sleep.   In this show, Chris reveals why cutting down on your sleep is seriously detrimental - both to your health and career. Are you more likely to face health problems if you are not getting enough sleep? And, can less sleep really cause serious ailments like cancer? We also discuss why putting in all-nighters can prove to be counter-productive and affect your work quality. Tune in for excellent insights! Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In this episode, Chris interviews Bryan Kane, President, Publicis Toronto. Brian shares some KEY attributes which will permit professionals to rise above and beyond their job descriptions AND find continued success in their professional lives. This inspiring show starts off with Bryan recalling his life before Student Works. What are some key skills that Bryan learnt at Student Works which have helped shape his career? You will learn that you cannot attain success if you do not plan for it. Next, we trace Brian’s career’s path, and how he ended up being the President of Publicis Toronto. Brian reveals how you can manage to keep your entrepreneurial spirit alive in a corporate setting. We also share how rising beyond your job description can pay your rich dividends in the long term. How do you ensure that you do not miss out on path breaking career opportunities? And, what are some ways of staying relevant in a rapidly evolving market? Why is it crucial that you cultivate a correct attitude towards failure and success? Towards the end, Brian shares some powerful habits of highly successful people. For all this and much, much more, tune in to our latest show now! Connect with Bryan on LinkedIn   Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In today's show, we reveal how an audacious vision is crucial for realizing your desired outcome. Is it possible to achieve great things by accident, and not by design? If not, can clarity about your future goals help you? And, what are some powerful ways to stay motivated and not give up? This show is full of inspirational insights guaranteed to swing you into action. Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In this episode, Chris interviews Michael Davidson, Senior Accounts Executive, Adobe. You will learn how Michael learned the importance of a results economy and honed his business skills courtesy his Student Works stint. How did Michael’s Student Works experience help him land a six figure contract at Adobe? Michael shares that his experience of managing a painting business honed his sales skills. You will also learn the Pros & Cons of working in a corporate environment. In particular, Michael stresses the importance of being on time for important team meetings and client discussions. Towards the end, Michael reveals some interesting details about his real estate investments. Michael shares how a deep value add property might net him a million dollars, if things go as planned. For someone with an utter lack of focus, Michael has certainly come a long way. This show will be particularly interesting and inspiring to those who unsure of their career paths. Tune in now! Learn More: https://studentworks.com Connect with Michael on LinkedIn   Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In this episode, Chris interviews Austin Trudeau, Owner/Operator, Student Works. Austin shares how Student Works has helped him develop the skills necessary to efficiently and profitably manage a business. This show starts off with Austin sharing his background information. Why does Austin firmly believe in discussing his business challenges with other Student Work Owners? You will learn how communicating with peers can drastically lower your learning curve and help you better manage your business. How did Austin achieve his goal of $150,000 sales last summer? And, how does he plan on achieving his audacious goal of $300,000 this coming summer? You will learn how setting milestones and cultivating a results-driven approach can inspire you to meet your end goals. Towards the end, Austin shares how Student Works has played a transformative role in his life. We wrap up this show by sharing some important attributes that define a leader of tomorrow.  Learn More: https://studentworks.com Tune in to get inspired!

In this episode, Chris interviews Richard Simtob, President, Simtob Consulting/Invesments. Richard shares interesting details about his long entrepreneurial career and reveals the many attributes that have allowed him to find success in multiple businesses. This show starts off with Richard recalling his life before Student Works. How did his stint at Student Works prepare him for his eventual foray into entrepreneurship? You will learn how Richard picked important lessons in work ethic, project execution, and sales. Next, we Richard talks about his many entrepreneurial ventures – some which he started while in college. Why did Richard drop out of college? And why did he eventually migrate to the United States from Canada? Richard shares the many strategies which allowed to launch and grow his new business venture, The Talking Book World. Eventually, why was Richard forced out of The Talking Book World? Was it difficult for him to start all over again? And, how did he find success again with Wireless Toyz? You will also learn about Richard’s latest business venture, Zoup! Fresh Soup Company. Richard also reveals how you can grow your business using the franchise model. You will learn why the franchise model is apt for folks who are planning a foray into entrepreneurship. Other topics discussed include benefits of mentorship, how to forge a successful business partnership, and some key attributes of successful people. Tune in to our latest show now Learn More: https://studentworks.com

In today's show, Chris shares how traveling not only leaves you feeling rejuvenated and enthused, but also broadens your experience. Chris reveals some interesting details about his recent family vacation to Peru. A challenging hike to Machu Picchu was indeed a powerful experience for Chris and his family - one that allowed them to soak up a different culture and religion. But, does this mean that you should take months off to visit a foreign country? How can you structure your life so that you can travel without compromising on your professional commitments? Tune in to this short but powerful talk!   Resources: Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In this episode, Chris interviews Jeremy White, Founder, Big Spruce Brewing. Jeremy reveals how he managed to launch and scale up his brewery business in an incredibly tough and crowded marketplace. This show starts off with Jeremy recalling his life before Student Works. What are some of the biggest lessons that Jeremy learned at Student Works? And, why did Jeremy choose a corporate career after finishing his stint at Student Works? You will learn about his impressive 13 year stint in Costa Rica. Jeremy’s next big shift came when he decided to move to Nova Scotia, Canada. Being a home brewer, Jeremy decided to launch his own craft brewery. How did this entrepreneurial adventure pan out? And, why did Jeremy pivot towards a production brewery? You will learn some important lessons in business strategy that have helped Jeremy survive and thrive in a competitive market. You will learn why FOCUSING on product quality, and not your bottom line is the key to entrepreneurial success. Towards the end, Jeremy has some great advice for folks who are planning on taking the entrepreneurial route. Tune in for some excellent insights. Learn More: https://studentworks.com

In this show, Chris espouses on a complaint that we often hear people make - "Life is Hard". Not one to sugarcoat reality, Chris points out that while life is indeed hard, our choices ultimately determine our life's path. Are you struggling to make two ends meet? Are you dealing with poor health? Chris shares that poor choices and indiscipline will result in poor outcomes and ultimately, regret. Success is not possible without years, and sometimes decades of commitment and hard work. Tune in and get inspired to put in your best. Learn More: https://studentworks.com

In this episode, Chris interviews Jay Wong, Founder and Producer, Inner Changemaker. Jay shares some critical attributes that have helped him overcome the many challenges of entrepreneurship to eventually find growth and success. This show starts off with Jay sharing his background information. Jay’s parents are entrepreneurs who faced lot of ups and downs in business. Did witnessing these massive swings of fortune temper Jay’s enthusiasm for entrepreneurship? You will learn how Jay’s approach to entrepreneurship is radically different from his parents. Jay also shares how poor self-awareness and peer pressure caused him to lose sight of his end goals for a brief time. How did Student Works help Jay regain this lost focus? What important lessons did Jay learn at Students Works which are helping him to date? Next, Jay talks about his stint in the corporate world before eventually transitioning to entrepreneurship. Why did Jay’s first entrepreneurial venture did not pan out as expected? And, how did Jay discover podcasting and eventually coaching & consulting? Jay shares some great strategies for launching, managing, growing and monetizing an online business. Towards the end of the show, Jay shares some great Tips and Tricks which will help you realize your fullest potential. Tune in to our latest show now! What You Will Discover In This Episode: How poor self-awareness and peer pressure can cloud judgement in your formative years         How mentoring can help you figure out strategic career moves       Cultivating the habit of continuous learning How to launch, grow and monetize an online business Links: Connect with Jay on LinkedIn Website  The Inner Changemaker Resources: Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less Student Works Chris Thomson LinkedIn

In this show, Chris Thomson shares why "Willingness" is a crucial attribute for success. Chris points out that willingness is often the differentiating factor between winning and losing. Can you look back and recount the many times you did NOT put in an honest, one hundred percent effort? Lack of willingness to follow up on your coaches' advice is more often than not, the reason for a lackluster result. You will learn how a combination of willingness, structure and continuous learning can help you meet your end goals. Tune in for some great insights! Learn More: https://studentworks.com

In this episode, Chris interviews Rick Eastwood. Rick talks about his experience in developing and growing businesses, the challenges he's faced and the lesson's he's learned throughout the process. How can a person's life change after going through the Student Works Management Program? We approach this from Rick's own experience and also from that of his son, who was part of the program and is now an admirable person and a successful professional. You'll also learn how Rick faced difficult times after going through recessions and changes in the market and how he was able to reinvent his business to rise up again after taking a big hit. What does it take to be an entrepreneur? How long does it take to become successful? Listen to the answers from someone who has walked the walk for more than three decades.   What You Will Discover In This Episode: -       Why as an entrepreneur you should rely on timing and never on luck. -       How reinventing your business can give you an advantage over established competitors. -       Why people are the most important part of a business. -       The traits you need to develop as a leader. Tune in to learn more! Learn More: https://studentworks.com

In today's show, we talk about a business concept that is integral to the StudentWorks program - structuring and assessing a unique process. You will learn how every successful business has a unique process via which you can deliver value, again and again. Should a business place a cap on the number of things it attempts to do? And, is there any scope for improvement to your businesses’ unique process? We share how we at StudentWorks have been improving our unique process for the past 35 years - and share the workflow for improving your unique process. Tune in to learn more! Learn More: https://studentworks.com

  Mark founded In the Funnel - Sales Consulting (ITF) with the mission of dramatically improving the performance and professionalism of B2B sales teams. With a focus on strategy, process, tools, and discipline, Mark has helped over 70 companies achieve double-digit growth by implementing ITF’s proprietary Sales Playbook. Prior to founding ITF, Mark lead sales organizations in outsourcing, services and technology businesses for over 20 years. He has personally sold, structured and negotiated some of the largest single-sales transactions in North America including a billion-dollar deal with a top 10 U.S. bank. Mark has a passion for intentional sales management and LOVES to coach sales teams. In addition to the family, Mark’s personal passions include hockey, fitness training, and music.   Learn More: https://studentworks.com

In today's show, you will learn a mantra that we follow to exactly at StudentWorks - that of "Work Hard, Play Hard, Have Fun" In order for a team to operate smoothly, working with people with shared values is important. We discuss how having hardworking individuals as your teammates are critical for the success of your business. But, is playing hard and having fun as important as working hard? Is it really that important to stop every once in a while to "smell the roses"? Tune in to find out. Learn More: https://studentworks.com

In this episode, Chris interviews Tina Pan, Engagement Manager, McKinsey & Company. Tina provides us with a “peek” into the company culture within McKinsey, and reveals the many reasons that make McKinsey such a unique and special workplace. This show kicks off with Tina sharing her StudentWorks experience. Which key values did Tine imbibe that has helped her immensely in her professional career? Next, Tina reveals many interesting details about her consulting career. Is Tina able to achieve a good work-life balance at McKinsey? How does McKinsey deal with employee mistakes? You will also learn how a feedback driven culture helps drive efficiencies. How does McKinsey deal with cultural diversity and gender inequality? Is a consulting career a good move for folks eventually planning on transitioning to entrepreneurship? This show wraps up with Tina sharing the important attributes that truly define a “Leader of Tomorrow”. Tune in for some excellent insights! Learn More: https://studentworks.com

In today's show, we discuss the philosophy of a Results Economy. While most people are paid for their time and effort, extraordinary success is possible only if you can produce terrific results for your company, or for your client. Will structuring compensation based on results result in greater efficiency? Does a results economy drive higher salaries? If you are one of those folks who is working harder to earn the same money as your counterparts, this could prove to be a thought-provoking show for you. Tune in to learn why transitioning to a results economy is important for driving efficiencies in the business. Learn More: https://studentworks.com

  Learn More: https://studentworks.com

In today’s show, we discuss why you should AVOID paying heed to the little voice in your head. Often, when we set out to execute a difficult task, the little voice in the head tries to stop us in our tracks. We discuss why it is important for you to realize that the little voice in your head is not YOU. How can you overcome these negative thoughts and muster up the motivation and excitement to realize your end goals?   Tune in to discover how.   Learn More: https://studentworks.com

In this episode, Chris interviews Matt Andrews, Acquisition and Assets Manager, Gryphon Homes. Matt shares his successes and more importantly, his failures and reveals how you can overcome the challenges of a new business. Chris kickstarts this show by quizzing Matt about his experience at Student Works. Why did Matt keep coming back to Student Works for three straight years? Matt shares how his experience at Student Works laid a solid foundation for his eventual entrepreneurial success. You will learn how Matt managed to transition to real estate investing after his stint at Student Works. What are some of the biggest challenges in real estate investing? How can inexperienced folks with no track record find buy-in from investors? You will also hear Matt share his rather difficult experience of working with an unethical contractor. Matt also shares some great nuggets for enterprising folks who are contemplating the entrepreneurial route. Are there any significant tradeoffs to be being an entrepreneur? We share the importance of maintaining a good work-life balance. Towards the end, Matt shares his ambitious plans for the future. Listening to this adventurous young man will surely inspire you to realize your dreams. Tune in now! Learn More: https://studentworks.com

In today's short show, we discuss an important but often ignored success habit - Gratitude. If you are feeling angry or depressed, practicing gratitude can help you overcome these negative emotions - and again envelop you with energy and happiness. What is a simple but effective way of practicing gratitude every day? And does showing gratitude create opportunities for more good things in your life? Tune in to get inspired!   Learn More: https://studentworks.com

In this episode, Chris interviews James Svetec. James shares his successes and more importantly, his failures – and reveals some great insights for setting up and running a sustainable business. What were some of the most important skills that James picked up at the Student Works program? We discuss how cultivating sales and persuasion skills can take you places. James also points out why no amount of brilliance and creativity can replace hard work. You will also learn why James took the bold decision of quitting university. Is real-world experience far more valuable than a college degree? While you may not agree with James, you are sure to find his perspective really interesting. What did James do when he ended up losing thousands of dollars in the wristwatch business? What lessons did he learn the hard way? This show is loaded with some great insights. Tune in to learn from James successes and failures.   Learn More: https://studentworks.com

In today's show, we discuss the need to take 100% ownership for whatever happens in your life. Are you one of those who is constantly looking for excuses for not meeting your targets? Are you constantly blaming externalities like the broader economy and the expensive labor market? Chris Thomson discusses and explains the "No Excuse Management" philosophy. You will learn how taking two fold accountability - first for your activity and then for your results can prod you into action, and help you achieve your goals. This show is filled with wisdom that will force you to take stock of your actions. Tune in now! Learn More: https://studentworks.com

So great to have Khierstyn Ross in the show today. Khierstyn is the Managing Director of her own business, the Crowdfunding Uncut, based in Toronto, Canada. She helps business owners who are looking to gain international exposure for their physical product and build long-term and sustainable business. She used to be a Senior General Manager at Student Works Painting. Her task was mainly as a consultant who streamlines company operations for strategic growth targets. One of her excellent achievements during her stint there was the implementation of the required changes for Student Works to do $6M in revenue for 2013. Today she shared how joining Student Works made her get out of commoditized space and how she was able to create something new. Not only that, but she also talked about her way of networking, what she does and where she goes to find a different set of eyes. That’s not all; you will also her talk about what she does to keep her on track of her habits, what are the tools she used to do that. Khierstyn did not hold any details that will not help you in your journey as an emerging leader. Sit back and enjoy! Learn More: https://studentworks.com

In today's short chat, we discuss how networking can help you find like-minded individuals and cultivate rock-solid relationships that will further your business. Chris Thomson shares how folks at Students Works continue to develop their network even after going through the intensive and well-structured program. You will learn how associating with folks with well-developed skills can help you make more headway in your business. This short chat reminds us once again of the old adage, "You are the average of the 5 people you spend the most time with".   Tune in now!   Learn More: https://studentworks.com    

Dave is an entrepreneur and seasoned sales practitioner. He had a big part in building two bootstrapped software companies. With that, he became a profitable industry leader. Currently, he is the founding partner in AdvertiseCast, a podcast advertising platform connecting brands with highly-engaged podcast audiences. Here’s the deal, Dave chatted with me and shared his experiences with Student Works Program, how it helped him come up with the decision to be an entrepreneur. Dave talked about the exposure to management, and leadership with Student Works helped him passed through the sleepless nights when he loses a client. Want to know the best part of our conversation? You have to listen until the end because Dave gave advice that will inspire you to go out into the marketplace, take bold actions and create the results that you truly want. Learn More: https://studentworks.com

In today's show, we share how businesses need a strict and well thought of recruiting policy in order to survive and thrive in a competitive market. How do you find and vet good people who are a good fit for your business? Which factors should you evaluate when vetting people? We also discuss how you can deal with undisciplined employees who are not performing according to business guidelines. This show is loaded with some great learnings for better managing your business. Tune in now! Learn More: https://studentworks.com

In this episode, Chris interviews Adel Jawhary, Owner and Executive Director, Rydel Roofing. Adel shares the various systems and processes which enabled him, along with his business-partner Ryan managed to hit $6 million in sales in just 5 years. Adel has managed to grow his roofing business at a stupendous rate YOY. What Tips and Tricks has this 25 year old employed in order to hit the magic 8 figure mark? And, what challenges that Adel face when his business grew at such breakneck speed? Adel shares his sales playbook and discusses the importance of managing cash flow How did Adel and Ryan deal with a business loss that almost bankrupted them in their first year of business? Why does Adel attribute his success to karma? And, why does Adel believe in setting audacious goals? And, how does he go about achieving them? This show is loaded with some golden nuggets for established and aspiring entrepreneurs. Hearing this young and brave entrepreneur is sure to inspire and ignite the entrepreneurial fire within you. Tune in now!   Learn More: https://studentworks.com

In today's show, Chris shares why it is important to be a man or woman of action - and how effective time management can help you execute your most ambitious plans. Chris reminds us that while our intent may be noble if we don't act upon it, all our intent amounts to naught. It is critical that you learn to organize and plan your schedule early in your life. Chris points out that Student Works has a well-structured time management program where students are taught to achieve leadership and sales goals by managing time in the best possible way.     Learn More: https://studentworks.com