Owner's Roundtable

About Owner's Roundtable

Every successful business has a story that didn’t make it into the press release. Join host Jeff McLarty as he sits down with business owners who’ve been in the trenches—building, scaling, failing, and fighting their way to success. Each episode of Owner’s Roundtable dives deep into the moments that matter: the decisions that changed everything, the failures that taught the hardest lessons, and the operational strategies that actually moved the needle. This isn’t about inspiration—it’s about implementation. It’s about learning from people who’ve already made the mistakes so you don’t have to.

Publisher

Jeff McLarty

Category

business · education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

24 Nov 2025

Latest episode

12 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   12 Oct 2026

   Better Every Day: Leadership, Culture, and Lean Processes with Bob Hahn

   What do farming and accounting have in common? In this episode of Owner’s Roundtable, Jeff McLarty sits down with Bob Hahn, Partner at Hahn Lukey Houle (HLH) Chartered Professional Accountants, an Edmonton firm that applies lean thinking to owner-managed businesses. Bob started HLH in 2004. In this conversation, he gets into lean processes, building culture from day one, and what owners should have in place long before they sell. Bob’s standard is that every client conversation includes something the owner will not hear from anyone else. He holds the firm to the same consistency he expects on his Angus ranch, where every cut of meat has to match the last, and he builds it into daily routines at the firm: meetings that look for waste, rotate who leads, and skip the minutes. The same thinking shapes how he handles growth past 25 employees, the role of mentors and coaches, and getting a business ready to sell. What you will learn in this episode: Where processes start to strain as a business grows The importance of mentorship and heeding the advice of others who have already built what you are building How Bob stays engaged after four decades in the profession, and his advice on consistent self-improvement How lean thinking applies to a professional services firm Why the human side of growth gets harder past 25 employees, and the importance of building culture from day one What a lone dancer in a field has to do with leadership What owners should understand about planning for a business exit years before the sale About Bob Hahn Bob Hahn is a founder, farmer, and family man whose career as a chartered accountant began in 1982, followed by 14 years as an Assurance Partner at Grant Thornton. In 2004 he opened his own firm, Hahn Lukey Houle (HLH) Chartered Professional Accountants, which has grown to four partners and a staff of 34, and has partnered with WealthCo and joined the Integrated Advisory Professionals Network (IAPN) to offer clients more advanced and holistic support. The team works to deliver the assurance and peace of mind about the questions keeping their clients up at night. In 2021 Bob was named a Fellow of the Chartered Professional Accountants of Alberta, a designation awarded to only 11 other Albertans that year. Additionally, Bob owns Hahn Purebred Co., and the Hahn Angus Meat Market in Strathcona County, sporting a herd of 80 Angus cows. He keeps his hands full, but never too full to provide meaningful advice to his clients. When asked what matters most about his career, Bob says it is the opportunity to truly help people. Resources mentioned in the episode: Book Recommendation: Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell Blinkist App: https://www.blinkist.com/ (https://www.blinkist.com/)The lone dancer video: (press play on the first video, “First Followers”) https://hlhcpa.com/videos/ (https://hlhcpa.com/videos/) Looking for tools and support growing and managing your business? Contact Jeff McLarty: Website: https://www.focalpointedmonton.com/  (https://www.focalpointedmonton.com/%20) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/) Vision to Execution Scorecard: https://vision-to-execution.scoreapp.com/ (https://vision-to-execution.scoreapp.com/) Learn more about HLH Chartered Accountants: Website: https://hlhcpa.com/ (https://hlhcpa.com/) LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/company/hlhllp (https://ca.linkedin.com/company/hlhllp)

2. 

   21 Sept 2026

   Planning the Unplannable: Events, PR, and Brand Trust with Daniel Schieman

   What's the difference between marketing and public relations? In this episode of Owner's Roundtable, Jeff McLarty sits down with Daniel Schieman, Founder of DASCH Productions, an event management and public relations agency. Jeff and Daniel get into what actually goes into building an event people talk about, the real difference between marketing and public relations, and why the best crisis plans get written before anyone needs one. Daniel outlines a useful distinction: marketing creates demand, public relations creates trust. Event planning is the same work in practice, understanding what people should think and feel about a business, then building toward that. Who plans the event, what you're investing in your brand, and how ready you are to protect it when something goes wrong: all of it shapes your ROI, reach, and impact. What you will learn in this episode: What actually goes into producing an event that reflects a brand, beyond booking a venue The real difference between marketing and public relations, and when a business needs each Why mystery and intrigue can work as a legitimate marketing strategy, not just a gimmick What a crisis communications plan actually includes, and the size of business where it becomes worth having Why brand protection is mostly work that happens before anything goes wrong, not after About Daniel Schieman Daniel Schieman is the Founder of DASCH Productions, an Edmonton-based event management and public relations agency working with corporate, nonprofit, government, and arts and culture clients across the country. Before launching DASCH full-time, Daniel spent years as a senior event manager and communications professional, planning more than one hundred corporate events and producing strategic communications materials for associations and faculties, including a newsletter that reached 8,000 readers. He was recently named the local host for a major international pop-up dining event in Edmonton. Looking for tools and support growing and managing your business? Contact Jeff McLarty: Website: https://www.focalpointedmonton.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/) Vision to Execution Scorecard: https://vision-to-execution.scoreapp.com/ (https://vision-to-execution.scoreapp.com/) Contact Daniel Schieman: Website: https://www.daschproductions.com/ (https://www.daschproductions.com/) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/schiemand/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/schiemand/)

3. 

   7 Sept 2026

   From Swag to Smoke: Scaling Two Businesses with Russell Bird

   What if your best business idea is hiding in the thing you do for fun? In this episode of Owner's Roundtable, Jeff McLarty sits down with Russell Bird, CEO of The Promo Addict and You Need a BBQ. Russell built his first business out of a basement with nothing more than a laptop and a small line of credit, and later took second place at the World Barbecue Championships before turning that passion into a second company. In this conversation, he talks about scaling two businesses at once and the cash flow lessons that came with growing fast. When friends started texting him for barbecue advice during a pandemic that had nearly wiped out his first business, Russell brought in seven grills and sold out in a weekend, then scaled it to eight hundred grills in a year. His story shows what happens when you pay attention to what's actually in front of you instead of waiting for a plan to feel ready. What you will learn in this episode: How Russell bootstrapped his first business with a $10,000 line of credit and grew it to $400,000 in first-year sales Why a pandemic-driven cash crunch led him to start a second business both by accident and necessity The difference between B2B and retail cash flow, and the cost of goods sold lesson that caught him off guard How treating everyone you encounter with kindness pays off, and how it led to his first big account What actually makes promotional products work as a marketing tool, and how to get noticed by your market Why Russell credits his EO peer group with making him a better leader, not just a better operator About Russell Bird: Russell Bird is the CEO and founder of The Promo Addict and You Need a BBQ, two Sherwood Park-based businesses built from his passion for creating value for customers, employees, and community. Through The Promo Addict, he helps companies bring their brands to life through promotional products, branded apparel, and custom merchandise. With You Need a BBQ, he has turned a passion for barbecue into a growing retail, catering, and education business. Russell is an award-winning competitive barbecue cook and was the 2025 American Royal International Reserve Grand Champion. He also serves on the Canadian Regional Council for Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO), supporting entrepreneurs across Canada. Looking for tools and support growing and managing your business? Contact Jeff McLarty: Website: focalpointedmonton.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/) Vision to Execution Scorecard: https://vision-to-execution.scoreapp.com/ (https://vision-to-execution.scoreapp.com/) Contact Russell Bird: The Promo Addict: https://thepromoaddict.com/ (https://thepromoaddict.com/) (@promoyeg) You Need a BBQ: https://youneedabbq.com/ (https://youneedabbq.com/) (@youneedabbq) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russellabird/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/russellabird/)

4. 

   15 Jul 2026

   BONUS: The Origin of Owner's Roundtable (And Where It's Headed Next Season)

   Jeff steps away from the host chair this week to talk about why he started the podcast, and what's ahead when it returns in September. He talks about the peer group of business owners that inspired the show, and why sitting across from someone who understands the weight of ownership taught him some important lessons in his own journey. Looking ahead, learn how the show's lens is widening. Alongside more owner conversations, expect deep dives with subject matter experts on topics like marketing, leadership, cash flow, and mental health. Thanks to this season's guests for trusting us with their stories, and to everyone listening for making this season worth doing. Enjoy your summer and we’ll see you in September. And if you have a topic you'd like to see covered, let us know here: https://focalpointedmonton.com/contact/ (https://focalpointedmonton.com/contact/) About the Host Jeff McLarty, owner of Focal Point Edmonton, is an operational planning strategist and team training specialist who helps business owners get to the root cause of what's holding their business back. Drawing on real-world experience and a deep library of resources and strategies, Jeff builds tailored solutions that move clients toward their vision faster and more effectively. Looking for tools and support growing and managing your business? Website: https://www. (https://www)focalpointedmonton.com (http://focalpointedmonton.com) Jeff's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/) Vision to Execution Scorecard: https://vision-to-execution.scoreapp.com/ (https://vision-to-execution.scoreapp.com/)

5. 

   22 Jun 2026

   Joy as a Business Strategy: Creating Unforgettable Customer Experiences with Amanda Chin

   How do you turn a dental appointment into an experience people genuinely enjoy? In this episode of Owner's Roundtable, Jeff McLarty sits down with Amanda Chin, Owner of Norwood Dental — a two-location dental practice in Edmonton she co-owns and runs with her husband, Dr. William Chin. Amanda comes from outside dentistry entirely, running the business and operations side with a perspective shaped more by hospitality and experience design than clinical practice. Amanda has spent years observing what makes people want to be somewhere and translating that into a dental context. She thinks carefully about every point of contact a patient has with the business, from the waiting room to the chair to what happens after they leave. The result is a practice that has built its reputation almost entirely on how it makes people feel, in an industry where most businesses compete on clinical credentials alone. What you will learn in this episode Every market is saturated. Amanda's argument for why that is actually beside the point. The experience is the only thing a patient can evaluate after an appointment. How Amanda built a business model around that fact. Why getting a team to deliver a culture of surprise and delight is harder than building the culture itself, and what Amanda did when her best idea met immediate resistance. What restructuring from 30 direct reports to four actually changed, and why meaningful leadership requires a number you can personally manage. Why Amanda looks to hospitality and restaurants rather than other dental clinics when she wants to improve her practice. How community presence before a first appointment changes the relationship a patient has when they finally walk through the door. About Amanda Chin Amanda Chin is the Owner of Norwood Dental, a two-location dental practice in Edmonton, Alberta. She co-owns the business with her husband Dr. William Chin and oversees all business operations, team development, and the experience systems that have become Norwood's defining quality. Active in the Edmonton community and passionate about making dental care accessible and genuinely enjoyable, Amanda has built a practice known as much for its culture as for its clinical care. Looking for tools and support growing and managing your business? Contact Jeff McLarty Website: focalpointedmonton.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/ Vision to Execution Scorecard: https://vision-to-execution.scoreapp.com/ (https://vision-to-execution.scoreapp.com/) Contact Amanda Chin Website: https://norwood.dental/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-chin-yeg/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-chin-yeg/) Sign up to get new episodes to your inbox: https://s8zsh.share.hsforms.com/2y-GeC0XOT5CllU620jMQAw (https://s8zsh.share.hsforms.com/2y-GeC0XOT5CllU620jMQAw) Read more on the Focal Point Edmonton blog: focalpointedmonton.com/blog (http://focalpointedmonton.com/blog)

6. 

   8 Jun 2026

   Exit Ready: How to Build a Business Worth Buying with Gil Poulin

   What would a buyer actually pay for your business, and do you know the answer before they do? In this episode of Owner's Roundtable, Jeff McLarty sits down with Gil Poulin, Owner of The Affordable Business Partner. Gil has bought and sold 42 businesses of his own over 45 years and supported close to 200 others through the sale process. In this conversation they get into what actually determines whether a business sells, why most owners are looking at their own business from the wrong angle, and what it takes to hand something off in a way that holds up after you leave. Gil has been on every side of this transaction. He has bought distressed businesses and turned them around. He has helped owners price businesses they spent decades building. He has watched buyers walk away from good businesses because the story was not told clearly. His standard for what makes a business sellable is straightforward and does not leave room for wishful thinking. What you will learn in this episode: Why less than 50% of businesses that hit the marketplace actually sell, and what separates the ones that do. How to look at your business from the outside in, the way a buyer sees it before you do. What processes buyers are actually looking for and why most owners cannot articulate them even when they exist. Why the training period after a sale matters more than most sellers realize, and how Gil structures it. How to take the emotion out of pricing your business without losing sight of what you built. Why staff are often the most underestimated asset in any business sale, and one story that proves it. What to have ready before you consider going to market, which is more than most people think. About Gil Poulin Gil Poulin is the Owner of The Affordable Business Partner, a business brokerage and advisory practice focused on helping independent business owners buy and sell small businesses valued under $2.5 million. Over a 45 year career as a business owner, broker, and selling trainer, he has been involved in hundreds of transactions across a wide range of industries. He is well regarded for his expert guidance on what it takes to build something worth selling. Looking for tools and support growing and managing your business? Contact Jeff McLarty: Website: https://www.focalpointedmonton.com/ (http://focalpointedmonton.com) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/) Vision to Execution Scorecard: https://vision-to-execution.scoreapp.com/ (https://vision-to-execution.scoreapp.com/) Contact Gil Poulin: Website: https://theaffordablebusinesspartner.com/ (https://theaffordablebusinesspartner.com/) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gil-p-732b1420/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/gil-p-732b1420/) Sign up to get new episodes to your inbox: https://s8zsh.share.hsforms.com/2y-GeC0XOT5CllU620jMQAw (https://s8zsh.share.hsforms.com/2y-GeC0XOT5CllU620jMQAw) Read more on the Focal Point Edmonton blog: https://focalpointedmonton.com/blog/ (https://focalpointedmonton.com/blog/)

7. 

   25 May 2026

   Earning the Room: How to Lead a Team for the Long Game with Brendan Thompson

   What does it actually take to step into executive leadership at a company that was already running before you were born? In this episode of Owner's Roundtable, Jeff McLarty sits down with Brendan Thompson, President of Bernie's Electric Supplies Ltd. Brendan is third generation at a company his grandfather founded in 1976, and has been President since 2023. They get into what the executive leadership transition actually looks like from the inside, how to bring change to an organization with deep roots, and what it takes to build a team that can carry a business into its next 50 years. Brendan came up through almost every department at Bernie's before taking the top role, from the warehouse floor, to purchasing, to inside and outside sales. That ground-level foundation shapes how he thinks about hiring, developing people, and building systems that hold up over time. His approach is deliberate and long-term oriented in a way that most leaders only develop after they've already made the expensive mistakes. Bernie's Electric is in its 50th anniversary year and actively planning for expansion. This episode is a study in what it looks like when executive leadership is built on genuine operational fluency rather than title alone. What you'll learn in this episode: How to enter an established leadership team and win trust without dismantling what's working Why small wins matter more than bold moves when you're new to the top role How Brendan uses monthly conversations tied to variable pay instead of annual reviews, and why it changed his organization The case for growing people into roles from within rather than hiring finished products from outside What presenting a united front in management actually requires, and why alignment has to start in the room before it can reach the floor How Brendan used EOS/Traction as a consistent implementation framework rather than chasing new ideas with every new book About Brendan Thompson Brendan Thompson is the third-generation President of Bernie's Electric Supplies Ltd., an independent electrical wholesaler based in Edmonton, Alberta. He holds a business degree with a major in human resources from the University of Lethbridge and is a Red Seal journeyman electrician, a combination that gives him an unusually broad understanding of the business he leads. Books and resources mentioned: Traction by Gino Wickman Leadership 2.0 by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) Tech Alberta (https://technologyalberta.com/) Looking for tools and support growing and managing your business? Contact Jeff McLarty: Website (https://focalpointedmonton.com/) LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/) Vision to Execution Quiz (https://vision-to-execution.scoreapp.com/) Contact Brendan Thompson: Website  (https://www.bernieselectric.ca/) LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/b-j-electric-supplies-ltd/) Sign up (https://s8zsh.share.hsforms.com/2y-GeC0XOT5CllU620jMQAw) to get new episodes to your inbox

8. 

   11 May 2026

   Always Human in the Loop: What AI Can (and Can't) Do for Your Business with Matt McKeage

   What does it actually take to use AI well in a business, and how do you know when you’re just adding noise? In this episode of Owner’s Roundtable, Jeff McLarty sits down with Matt McKeage, founder of Speaking is Code AI Consulting and StressMed Adaptive Mental Health Training. Matt spent years as a paramedic before moving into AI consulting and mental health training for first responders, two businesses built around making complex information accessible to the people who need it most. In this conversation, Jeff and Matt dig into what AI actually changes about starting and running a business, and where the real risks are hiding. Matt’s perspective on AI is grounded in practice rather than promotion. He’s worked with businesses across industries and seen the same failure pattern repeat: owners who skip the foundational thinking, trust the output without reading it, and end up with expensive noise instead of useful insight. His standard is simple: always human in the loop. What you'll learn in this episode: Why the quality of your AI output is a direct function of the clarity you put in How to tell the difference between a genuinely useful AI tool and an expensive wrapper What data security actually looks like for business owners using AI, and the settings most people haven’t checked Why businesses that skip the foundational work end up with marketing that sounds identical to their competitors What managers and team members will actually look like in five years, and why it’s better for the people who are good at their jobs Why talking to a real potential customer still matters more than any amount of AI-generated market research How expertise becomes more valuable, not less, as AI-generated content floods every channel About Matt McKeage Matt McKeage is a former paramedic turned AI consultant and mental health educator. He is the founder of Speaking is Code, an AI consulting firm that helps businesses understand how to use artificial intelligence effectively and securely, and co-founder of StressMed Adaptive Mental Health Training, which teaches the neuroscience of stress to first responders and high-stress professions. Matt has been working with AI tools since 2022 and brings a practitioner’s perspective to a space crowded with hype. Resources discussed in this episode: OpenAI Academy (free courses) (http://academy.openai.com) Anthropic Academy (free Claude courses) (http://anthropic.skilljar.com) Looking for tools & support growing and managing your business? Contact Jeff McLarty: Website (http://focalpointedmonton.com) Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/) Contact Matt McKeage: LinkedIn  (https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-mckeage-731b9b295/) Sign up to get new episodes to your inbox: Fill out this form (https://s8zsh.share.hsforms.com/2y-GeC0XOT5CllU620jMQAw)

9. 

   27 Apr 2026

   Story First: AI, Visibility, and the Art of Content Marketing with Danielle Mohr

   What’s the real reason your marketing is underperforming? In this episode of Owner's Roundtable, Jeff McLarty sits down with Danielle Mohr, Founder and Owner of Fine Point Writing and Editing Services. She talks about her work helping owners translate their brand story into clear, compelling content. Danielle and Jeff explore why most businesses struggle to market themselves effectively, what it actually takes to get useful output from AI, and why story, not promotion, is the foundation of visibility that lasts. With nearly a decade in business, Fine Point has evolved from a writing service into a full brand and content strategy practice. Danielle now works with growth-stage businesses to build integrated marketing systems, including AI-assisted content workflows that preserve brand voice rather than flatten it. Her services are designed to give business owners the clarity and the tools to produce consistent, high-quality content without losing what makes them distinct. What you'll learn in this episode: How Danielle came to be a writer and how she has evolved throughout her entrepreneurial journey Why visibility is linked to relatability, and the important role of storytelling Why "AI slop" is a prompting problem, not a technology problem, and how to fix it Why hiring and delegating to your gaps isn't just about growth and scaling, but about preserving your energy for the things that matter What regular communication cadence does for a team and why the same principle applies to how you stay in front of your clients Why the most effective marketing doesn't feel like marketing at all About Danielle Mohr Danielle Mohr is the founder of Fine Point Writing & Editing and creator of the Lead Flow Framework, a content marketing system designed for entrepreneurs who want better results without becoming a slave to their marketing. After transitioning from AI skeptic to strategic user, she now teaches business owners how to harness AI's power through Lean Marketing Lab (https://finepointwriting.ca/lean-marketing-lab/), where the focus is on amplifying your authentic voice, not replacing it. Books discussed in this episode: The E-Myth by Michael E. Gerber Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell Made to Stick by Chip Heath & Dan Heath Rocket Fuel by Gino Wickman and Mark C. Winters Looking for tools & support growing and managing your business? Contact Jeff McLarty: Website (http://focalpointedmonton.com) Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/) Contact Danielle Mohr: Website (https://finepointwriting.ca/) LinkedIn  (https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-mohr000/) Lean Marketing Lab (https://finepointwriting.ca/lean-marketing-lab/) Sign up to get new episodes to your inbox: Fill out this form (https://s8zsh.share.hsforms.com/2y-GeC0XOT5CllU620jMQAw)

10. 

    13 Apr 2026

    Culture, Leadership, and Sustainable Growth with John Watson

    How do you maintain steady business growth while building a team and culture that lasts? In this episode of Owner’s Roundtable, Jeff McLarty sits down with John Watson, CEO of Eager Beaver Moving & Storage. John shares the lessons he’s learned growing a third-generation business into a market leader. No shortcuts–just consistent progress built on strong values, the right people, and a clear understanding of what the business does well. Whether you’re running a family business, managing a growing team, or navigating market expansion, this conversation is full of actionable insights on building a business that lasts. What you’ll learn in this episode: Why core values are discovered through your best people—not created in a boardroom How to maintain culture as your team grows and standards get tested What it takes to move from owner-operator to building a scalable business How to identify and avoid distractions that pull you away from your core business The role of professionalism as a competitive advantage in service industries Lessons learned from expanding into new markets and services Why steady, manageable growth often outperforms rapid scaling How recognizing and reinforcing top performers shapes team culture About John Watson John Watson is the CEO and owner of Eager Beaver Moving & Storage, a third-generation family business based in Edmonton. Since taking over the company around 2013, John has grown Eager Beaver into one of the region’s leading moving and storage providers, with a strong reputation for professionalism, team culture, and steady growth. Under his leadership, the business has expanded its services, grown into Calgary, and continued building on a people-first, values-driven foundation. Books Mentioned in the Episode Traction by Gino Wickman The E-Myth by Michael E. Gerber Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell Looking for tools & support growing and managing your business? Book a free consultation today: https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min (https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min) Contact Jeff McLarty: Website: FocalPointEdmonton.com (http://focalpointedmonton.com) Linkedin: Jeff McLarty (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/) Contact John Watson: Website: EagerBeaverMoving.com (https://eagerbeavermoving.com/) Facebook: Eager Beaver (https://www.facebook.com/eagerbeavermoving1992/) Sign up to get new episodes to your inbox: Fill out this form (https://s8zsh.share.hsforms.com/2y-GeC0XOT5CllU620jMQAw)

11. 

    30 Mar 2026

    Managing Multiple Businesses: Systems, People & Priorities with Alex Ward

    What does it really take to go from a stable corporate career to building multiple successful businesses—and still have a life outside of work? In this episode of Owner’s Roundtable, Jeff McLarty sits down with  Alex Ward, a former banker, then broker, turned serial entrepreneur operating across real estate, franchising, and youth athletics. Alex shares how a forced career pivot became the catalyst for designing his own path in multiple businesses—and how a clear vision, consistent execution, and people-first leadership philosophy have driven his success. From marketing myths to time management, and from mindset to scaling, this conversation is packed with practical insights for anyone looking to grow a business (or several) without burning out. What you’ll learn in this episode How a clear vision and simple plan can drive real business growth Why consistency—not complexity—is the key to long-term success The fundamentals of marketing that actually build trust and results How to prioritize high-impact work and scale without burning out Why people-first leadership creates stronger, more sustainable businesses How mindset and self-awareness shape better decisions and opportunities About Alex Ward Alex Ward is an Edmonton-based entrepreneur, real estate broker, and multi-business owner. A banker turned entrepreneur—Alex has built a career rooted in his passion for people management and leadership. He is the Broker/Owner of MaxWell Devonshire Realty, Managing Partner of Atta-Boy Property Inspections Canada, and Owner/Director of Overtime Athletics Edmonton. Alex is driven by helping others grow—whether that’s clients, teams, or the businesses he leads. — Looking for tools & support growing and managing your business? Book a free consultation today: https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min (https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min) Contact Jeff McLarty: Website: FocalPointEdmonton.com (http://focalpointedmonton.com) Linkedin: Jeff McLarty (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/) Contact Alex Ward: Websites: www.otathletics.com/edmonton/ (http://www.otathletics.com/edmonton/) | www.awardrealty.ca (http://www.awardrealty.ca/) Instagram: MaxWell (https://www.instagram.com/alex_ward_maxwell/) Devonshire Instagram: Overtime Athletics (https://www.instagram.com/overtime_athletics_edmonton/)

12. 

    16 Mar 2026

    Building Smarter Tech: Transparency & Trust with Rea Hailley

    What happens when you start a business in an industry you were never planning to enter? In this episode of Owner’s Roundtable, Jeff McLarty sits down with Rea Hailley, co-founder of New Idea Machine, to unpack the unfiltered realities of entrepreneurship, building in the tech ecosystem, and why many founders unknowingly walk into expensive software mistakes. Rea’s journey into entrepreneurship was anything but planned. A casual conversation on a dog walk turned into the launch of a software development company built around one mission: helping founders avoid the costly pitfalls of custom tech development. From navigating the overwhelming world of tech stacks to confronting the emotional highs and lows of building a company, Rea shares the lessons she’s learned while growing a business in one of the most complex industries for non-technical founders. This conversation explores the unromantic side of entrepreneurship, why founders need to ask better questions before building software, and how transparency can reshape the relationship between developers and business owners. If you’re thinking about launching a tech product, this episode delivers practical insight from someone who’s learning the game in real time. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why many founders lose thousands of dollars hiring the wrong developers The hidden risks of relying too heavily on off-the-shelf software tools When it actually makes sense to build custom software The problem with overloading your business with too many tech tools Why entrepreneurship is far harder and more consuming than most people expect The importance of validating your business idea before building anything How founders can protect themselves from bad contracts and development traps Why delegating early can accelerate business growth The difference between building a prototype and building secure, scalable software The power of community within Alberta’s growing innovation ecosystem About Rea Hailley Rea Hailley is the co-founder of New Idea Machine, a software development agency focused on helping founders and business owners build smarter digital products. With a background in business and experience as a Merchant Success Manager at Shopify, Rea combines entrepreneurial insight with a commitment to transparency in an industry that often feels difficult to navigate. Beyond her work with New Idea Machine, Rea is also a host on the Leaders, Innovators and Bold Ideas (LIBI) podcast, where she interviews entrepreneurs, innovators, and founders from Alberta’s growing tech ecosystem. Her mission is simple: help founders build better products by giving them the knowledge they need before writing a single line of code. Resources discussed in this episode: New Idea Machine’s Tech Innovation Roadmap (https://newideamachine.com/non-technical-founder-guide/) Alberta Rainforest Initiative (https://www.rainforestab.ca/) Alberta Innovates (https://albertainnovates.ca/) Edmonton Regional Innovation Network (ERIN) (https://www.edmontonrin.ca/) Platform Calgary (https://www.platformcalgary.com/) — Looking for Tools & Support Growing and Managing Your Business? Book a free consultation today: https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min (https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min) Contact Jeff McLarty: Website: FocalPointEdmonton.com (http://focalpointedmonton.com) Linkedin: Jeff McLarty (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/) Contact Rea Hailley: Website: New Idea Machine (https://newideamachine.com/) Podcast: Leaders, Innovators and Bold Ideas (LIBI) (https://open.spotify.com/show/4RxyPyFaHli3LcNs7Du6dt) LinkedIn: Rea Hailley (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rea-hailley/)

13. 

    2 Mar 2026

    From Shop Floor to Franchise Success: Trevor Jones on Systems, Scaling & Selling

    What happens when you build a business so tightly organized it runs with less stress—then one day you sell it and realize you don’t know who you are without it? In this episode of Owner’s Roundtable, Jeff sits down with Trevor Jones, former co-owner of Badlands Collision Group and now Corporate Director + Head of Training / Franchise Success at Driven Brands. Trevor shares his path from fixing cars in high school to buying the very shop he worked in, scaling into a three-location operation, and eventually selling his half to his partner. Along the way, they dig into what makes partnerships succeed (and fail), why simple systems beat “big shiny” strategies, what franchising is really like from both sides, and the emotional whiplash of exiting a business you’ve identified with for 24 years. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Trevor went from technician to manager to owner by buying the shop he ran The two biggest stress points of buying a business: financing + partnership structure Why Trevor recommends a shotgun clause in partnership agreements How to avoid resentment: aligning expectations and having uncomfortable conversations early Why systems reduce emotion (and make growth possible) The power of small operational fixes (like the legendary broom system) The surprise nobody warns you about: the identity crash after selling your business Trevor’s biggest lesson from ownership: relationships are the real business About Trevor Jones Trevor Jones is the former co-owner of Badlands Collision Group, which grew from a single location into a three-store operator. After selling his ownership stake, Trevor transitioned into corporate leadership and is now a Corporate Director and Head of Training / Director of Franchise Success at Driven Brands, helping franchisees improve operations through education, training, and process. — Looking for Tools & Support Growing and Managing Your Business? Book a free consultation today: https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min (https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min) Contact Jeff McLarty: Website: FocalPointEdmonton.com (http://focalpointedmonton.com) Linkedin: Jeff McLarty (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/) Contact Trevor Jones: Website: Driven Brands (https://www.drivenbrands.com/) LinkedIn: Trevor Jones (https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-jones-76419755/)

14. 

    16 Feb 2026

    From Lab to Leadership: Scaling a Deep-Tech Business with Jack Nicholas of Qdot Technology

    What does it take to turn world-class academic research into a real, revenue-generating company? In this episode of Owner’s Roundtable, Jeff McLarty sits down with Jack Nicholas, Co-Founder and CTO of Qdot Technology, to unpack his journey from Oxford University’s labs to the front lines of clean aviation. Jack shares how his Ph.D. research in cooling nuclear fusion reactors became the foundation for a deep-tech startup tackling one of aviation’s hardest problems: thermal management for zero-emissions flight. Along the way, he opens up about the realities of spinning a company out of a university, the costly mistake of leading with technology instead of customer problems, and why he ultimately stepped aside as CEO to put the right leader in place. This is a candid conversation about the long timelines of deep tech, raising capital in tougher markets, navigating VC relationships, and why finding the right people may be the hardest and most important challenge of all. What You’ll Learn in This Episode The hidden challenges of spinning a company out of a top university Why starting with “great technology” instead of a clear problem can slow growth When founders should step out of the CEO role How investor expectations have shifted from vision to early revenue Practical advice for raising capital and pitching VCs Why recruitment is harder (and more critical) than most founders expect About Jack Nicholas Jack Nicholas is the Co-Founder and CTO of Qdot Technology, a deep-tech company advancing thermal management solutions for clean aviation. He earned his Ph.D. in Engineering Science at the University of Oxford, where his research focused on cooling technologies for nuclear fusion reactors. After completing his doctorate, Jack led the design of a £1M industrial test facility for next-generation gas turbine materials in collaboration with aerospace partners. Today, he applies that expertise to solving the thermal challenges standing in the way of zero-emissions flight. — Looking for Tools & Support Growing and Managing Your Business? Book a free consultation today: https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min (https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min) Contact Jeff McLarty: Website: FocalPointEdmonton.com (http://focalpointedmonton.com) Linkedin: Jeff McLarty (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/) Contact Jack Nicholas: Website: Qdot Technology (https://qdot.tech/) LinkedIn: Jack Nicholas (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jrnicholasuk/) LinkedIn: Qdot Technology (https://www.linkedin.com/company/qdottech/)

15. 

    16 Feb 2026

    Turning Scrap into Scale & Spotting Opportunity with Tyson Christiansen

    What if the thing everyone else throws away is the foundation of your next business? In this episode of Owner’s Roundtable, Jeff McLarty sits down with Tyson Christiansen, founder of Maverick Metal, to unpack a gritty, real-world entrepreneurial journey built on follow-through, sales grit, and the ability to see value where others see waste. Tyson’s path didn’t start with a polished plan. It started at a tire shop, then behind the counter of a scrapyard, where he unknowingly received one of the best entrepreneurship educations possible. By helping others turn scrap into income, Tyson learned how businesses really work, how middlemen get cut out, and why execution always beats perfection. That early experience led to the creation of Maverick Metal, where Tyson began buying and selling oilfield pipe, eventually realizing that the real opportunity wasn’t brokering, but manufacturing. This episode is a masterclass in doing the work, trusting momentum over certainty, and building something durable by moving forward before everything is figured out. If you’ve ever waited for the “perfect plan” before starting, this conversation will challenge you to just get going. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why brokering businesses are fragile and how to escape the middleman trap Why perfection is the enemy of completion How differentiation protects margins in manufacturing Why customers don’t care about price; they care about value The role of fear, urgency, and sales volume in business survival How making the calls beats waiting for the phone to ring Why having the right partner at home can be a massive competitive advantage About Tyson Christiansen Tyson Christiansen is the founder of Maverick Metal, a manufacturing and materials company focused on repurposing end-of-life oilfield pipe into durable, high-value livestock fencing products. With a background rooted in sales, scrap recovery, and industrial brokering, Tyson built Maverick Metal by identifying overlooked opportunities and executing relentlessly. Known for confidence action and follow-through, Tyson has grown his business across borders, operating in both Canada and the United States, while continuing to scale manufacturing capacity and material sourcing. Looking for Tools & Support Growing and Managing Your Business? Book a free consultation today: https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min (https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min) Contact Jeff McLarty Website: FocalPointEdmonton.com (http://focalpointedmonton.com) LinkedIn: Jeff McLarty (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-yeg/) Contact Tyson Christiansen Website (https://www.maverickmetaldesign.com/) LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyson-christiansen-a8195aa3/) Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100040602767858)

16. 

    16 Feb 2026

    Cash Flow, Ego, and the Real Cost of Scaling with Tara Proskiw

    What happens when you go from “I can manage this place” to “I’m responsible for everything”? In this episode of Owner’s Roundtable, Jeff McLarty sits down with Tara Proskiw, owner of Towne & Countree Kitchens, Towne Renovations, and Redl Edmonton, for an unfiltered conversation about the hidden pressure of ownership. The conversation moves through everything owners in a scaling cycle dread: cash flow stress, leadership blind spots, scaling too fast, and the isolation that comes with being the person holding the keys. From learning financial statements the hard way to building boundaries that protect your health (and your marriage), Tara shares what she wishes every new owner knew before signing the paperwork. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Why Tara runs multiple brands instead of one umbrella company How vendor take-backs and market uncertainty can crush cash flow The hard truth about keeping the wrong people in the wrong seats Why scaling can make you “grow broke” (even with more revenue) The mindset shift from “manager” to “owner” and the ego shock that comes with it How Tara sets boundaries to reduce stress (including “no work talk after 7pm”) Why avoiding the financials is a trap and how to face the mirror How to identify bad-fit customers and confidently say “we’re not for you” Two books that helped Tara reframe progress and build better habits Why every entrepreneur needs a safe place to talk (coach, therapy, peer group) About Tara Proskiw Tara Proskiw is an Edmonton-based entrepreneur with over 17 years in cabinetry and countertops and a reputation for building businesses that actually work operationally, financially, and culturally. As the owner of Towne & Countree Kitchens, Towne Renovations, and Redl Edmonton, she is known for spotting gaps in the market, building smart systems, and bringing clarity to industries where chaos is often the norm. Tara believes leadership is about energy, accountability, and empowering people to do great work without burning out. Outside the business, she gives back through Glenora Rotary and South Edmonton Rotary, while continuing to challenge the idea that home renovations have to be stressful. Direct, thoughtful, and values-driven, Tara brings both edge and heart to everything she builds. Resources discussed in this episode: Women Presidents Organization (WPO) (https://www.women-presidents.com/) Alberta Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) — Bold Leadership (https://www.awebusiness.com/bold-leadership) Mount Royal University — Growth Catalyst (http://growthcatalyst.ca) The Gap and the Gain — Dan Sullivan & Dr. Benjamin Hardy (https://www.amazon.ca/Gap-Gain-Achievers-Happiness-Confidence/dp/1401964362/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.YrP29p3_0OdmfY57z6gm4Bip_ZO1SH2l5qd4ubVYOY4NTl5LAxqXd0-AsT-O7gSiOBt405oskrZbAuhl1n5YYnEjlPz7OnWVZkDTjGFFmQvaz8OjsGQIC1qXkimkBiZAyf3vSZGUB-2GwH9zwqpH-JVlGCqt9-mvIHJnaIN1C3iC1DCKvJv3-KRpdl5vMPSWpXgPxsHAOMgB8HAQrPQHtQ.AylkFRoKk-uPS6c0A-w1rpa8eddEsQqPZkh1yTz-qK8&dib_tag=se&gad_source=1&hvadid=788534721579&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=9001404&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=15137809166976616474--&hvqmt=e&hvrand=15137809166976616474&hvtargid=kwd-1393172894865&hydadcr=16930_13775540&keywords=gap+and+the+gain&mcid=61db7935ffff39adb4d223972b69aefa&qid=1768084366&sr=8-1) Atomic Habits — James Clear (https://www.amazon.ca/Atomic-Habits-Proven-Build-Break/dp/0735211299/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2JQRAVE1ESO7V&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.aVjxsZgNHJ6wfgiZ01PPLPAGdhb_-uTtIrmnxo2hiGLUoGXDjWOCNod16m77bmdpZona8d7Fc6d41FD6J9HDcyQh-7Gq91hb2zPJSU3HA-VhxGEQ1J8fu2ZFP4hteLlI3g8NeaQOoFcOI0WXEXDr0cjmo8LOA5aW8foeX9EF72EPDCo_ZXae_ixH8TthaQtcxAv-QB0BtAnoCTkhIaJPpy2NThk7Q7l1a-iqbF0bsvroNUMpAlrTs3Mus32fN2Yd0hdUagCgEqHHx1NfHkjDITKUF2kt83SJadsB_ZpuwiU.S9HuUFNmf7NAvgRJ6PYP7ZKNocruAQgr46ByuorzEOE&dib_tag=se&keywords=atomic+habits&qid=1768084389&sprefix=atomic+%2Caps%2C186&sr=8-1) — Looking for Tools & Support Growing and Managing Your Business? Book a free consultation today: https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min (https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min) Contact Jeff McLarty: Website: FocalPointEdmonton.com (http://focalpointedmonton.com) Linkedin: Jeff McLarty (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/) Contact Tara Proskiw: LinkedIn: Tara Proskiw (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tara-p-2642b778/) Website: Towne & Countree Kitchens (https://towneco.com/) Website: Towne Renovations (https://townerenos.com/) Website: Redl Kitchens (https://redledmonton.com/)

17. 

    16 Feb 2026

    From Y2K to AI: Scaling Through Chaos with Rafael Krug of Zero-Defect

    What does it take to build a business that survives economic collapse, a global pandemic, and a literal flood? In this episode of Owner’s Roundtable, Jeff McLarty sits down with Rafael Krug, founder of Zero-Defect, one of Brazil’s leading software quality assurance firms. They unpack a two-decade entrepreneurial journey that spans continents, and more than a few hard resets. From fixing Y2K bugs in Brazilian banks to scaling into a 70-person QA firm, navigating the 2008 financial crisis, surviving COVID shutdowns, and then rebuilding after catastrophic flooding in Porto Alegre, Rafael’s story is a wonder of resilience, adaptability, and long-term vision. Now based in Canada and loving the Canadian business landscape, Rafael shares why he chose to rebuild yet again, but this time with a global, product-driven future in mind. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How a Y2K internship led to a lifelong career in software quality assurance How HP became Zero-Defect’s first major client The real challenges behind scaling from 3 people to 70 What it’s like to lose half your company during an economic collapse How COVID forced a full operational reset What happens when your entire office is submerged under two meters of floodwater Why Rafael believes people — not infrastructure — are the real asset Key differences between doing business in Brazil vs. Canada Why Zero-Defect is shifting from a services model to product-led growth Advice for entrepreneurs facing setbacks that feel impossible to recover from About Rafael Krug Rafael Krug is the founder of Zero-Defect, a software quality assurance company specializing in functional, performance, security, and automated testing. Founded in Brazil in 2004, Zero-Defect grew into one of the country’s leading QA firms, supporting mission-critical systems for enterprise clients. Now based in Edmonton, Canada, Rafael is leading Zero-Defect’s expansion into North America while launching AI-driven testing tools designed to modernize how software quality is delivered globally. Resources discussed in this episode: Start-up Visa Program (Canada) (https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/start-visa.html) Caldeira / Instituto Caldeira (https://brazilfoundation.org/saiba-mais/como-apoiamos/pt-institutocaldeira/)(Porto Alegre innovation hub) — Looking for Tools & Support Growing and Managing Your Business? Book a free consultation today: https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min (https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min) Contact Jeff McLarty: Website: FocalPointEdmonton.com (http://focalpointedmonton.com) Linkedin: Jeff McLarty (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/) Contact Rafael Krug: Website: Zero-Defect (https://www.zero-defect.ca/) LinkedIn: Rafael Krug (https://ca.linkedin.com/in/rafael-krug-40871724) LinkedIn: Zero-Defect (https://ca.linkedin.com/company/zerodefect)

18. 

    24 Nov 2025

    Trailer: Owner's Roundtable

    Every successful business has a story that never made the press release: messy beginnings, painful mistakes, near collapses, and game-changing decisions that shaped the journey. In Owner’s Roundtable, host Jeff McLarty has real conversations with real business owners who’ve built, scaled, stumbled, and fought their way forward. This podcast isn’t about polished highlight reels or corporate marketing stories. It’s about lessons learned the hard way from builders who’ve been in the arena. It shows why stories from the trenches really matter and gives us a seat at the table with operators who tell us how it really works. About Host Jeff McLarty: Jeff is a seasoned entrepreneur with diverse experience working in and with organisations both large and small, family businesses, mid-sized corporations, not-for-profits and governments. He has worked with leaders in aerospace, AI, manufacturing, IT, and construction just to name a few. His own journey to the owner's table has covered a diverse range of work and ownership experiences, including working in the trades, sales, financial planning, Deputy Director of a museum, and as an Executive Director of a major not-for-profit before becoming an owner/operator of a family business in retail. He also has extensive volunteer experience, which he credits with developing the broad skill set he needed to begin operating a business at a relatively young age (35). Together with his wife and business partner Stephanie, they scaled a small family-owned business into a multi-segment tourism and food services operation with 25 staff and a province-wide reputation. Following the sale of the retail side of the operations, Jeff and his family moved to Edmonton, Alberta, where he began contract work for a UK-based aerospace startup, eventually serving as interim COO. He is currently a consulting partner in several venture startups and works as an Executive Coach and Business Trainer. Jeff is passionate about the journey to entrepreneurship and what it takes to keep a seat at the Owners Round Table, Listen in as he explores with fellow founders, how they earned their seats and share the wisdom of years spent building a business in the hopes that you can learn from their tough experiences. — Looking for Tools & Support Growing and Managing Your Business. Book a free consultation today: https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min (https://calendly.com/jmclarty-focalpointcoaching/30min) Contact Jeff McLarty: Website: FocalPointEdmonton.com (http://focalpointedmonton.com) Linkedin: Jeff McLarty (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-mclarty-16a0b225/)

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