In this episode of the Business in the Open Podcast, host Vanessa Smith interviews Luke Beck, Co-Owner of Kay's Wholesale. Luke shares his journey from playing and coaching hockey to becoming a leader in the wholesale business. He discusses the importance of building relationships, the transition and acquisition of businesses like A1 Vacuum, and his approach to leadership and business growth. Luke also touches on the challenges and successes of moving to a new location and opening Kay's Fresh Market. The episode concludes with insights on community support, advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, and plans for the future. Connect with Kays Wholesale / Kays Fresh Market: https://www.facebook.com/KaysWholesale https://www.facebook.com/KaysFreshMarket https://www.instagram.com/kays.wholesale/ https://www.instagram.com/kaysfreshmarket/ This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay. A big thanks to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Learn more about them here: HER Creative Co. - FREE Website Prep Checklist here Consolidated Credit Union MRSB Group Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/.

In this episode of the Business in the Open podcast, host Vanessa Smith sits down with Stephanie Andrews, a financial planner who specializes in advising female entrepreneurs. Stephanie shares her journey from starting out in the financial industry to developing a niche in helping women business owners. She emphasizes a lifestyle-driven planning approach and the importance of making immediate and future financial goals. The podcast covers Stephanie's marketing strategies, including the impactful use of social media and hosting women's luncheons, as well as the challenges and trends in financial planning. Stephanie also offers practical advice for those intimidated by financial planning and highlights key steps for aspiring entrepreneurs. Connect with Stephanie Andrews: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanieandrews1/ https://advisor.investorsgroup.com/en/stephanie_andrews This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay. A big thanks to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Learn more about them here: HER Creative Co. - FREE Website Prep Checklist here Consolidated Credit Union Fiddling Fisherman Lookout Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/.

In this episode of the Business in the Open Podcast, Vanessa Smith interviews Mike Thompson, a 26-year-old entrepreneur who has built a successful media company, Odyssey Virtual, specializing in real estate photography and videography. Mike shares his journey from starting with a basic GoPro to expanding his business to capture over a thousand properties a year. He recently launched a real estate magazine, On The Market, in partnership with PEI Living. Mike discusses the challenges and strategies for managing high volumes of work, the importance of diverse marketing channels, and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. The episode also features insights into how Mike manages his business, his thoughts on technology, and his plans for future growth. Connect with Odyssey Virtual & On the Market: https://www.odysseyvirtual.ca/ https://www.facebook.com/OdysseyVirtual https://www.instagram.com/odyssey.virtual/ https://www.onthemarket-pei.ca/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564617206731 https://www.instagram.com/onthemarketpei/ This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay. A big thanks to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Learn more about them here: HER Creative Co. - FREE Website Prep Checklist here Consolidated Credit Union MRSB Group Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/.

On today's episode, we sit down with Janson Simmonds, owner and operator of Apex Auto in Charlottetown. We chat about the challenging leap from employee to entrepreneur, keys to opening an independent automotive business, and adapting marketing strategies to compete with national brands. Janson also shares insights on the automotive and service industry trends, managing a seasonal rental fleet alongside a dealership and service facility and gives advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Connect with Apex Auto: https://www.apexautogroup.ca/ https://www.facebook.com/apexautopei https://www.instagram.com/apexautopei/ This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay. A big thanks to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Learn more about them here: HER Creative Co. - FREE Website Prep Checklist here Consolidated Credit Union Fiddling Fisherman Lookout Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/.

In this episode, host Vanessa Smith speaks with Craig Fair, founder of Craig Fair Productions. Tune in to hear about Craig's journey from his early beginnings in Ontario, his serendipitous start at the Charlottetown Festival, and his extensive career in theater and music that eventually led him to establish his production company on Prince Edward Island. Discover the challenges he faced, the innovative shows he's created, and how he's fostered a local artistic community. Craig also delves into the importance of communication, the future plans for his productions, and the value of having a dedicated team to help realize his ambitious goals. Connect with Craig Fair Productions: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082993134206 https://www.instagram.com/craigfairmusic/ This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay. A big thanks to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Learn more about them here: HER Creative Co. - FREE Website Prep Checklist here Consolidated Credit Union MRSB Group Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/.

In this special bonus episode of the Business in the Open podcast, we sit down with Jackson Reddin from Provincial Credit Union. Jackson shares his five essential business banking tips to help listeners manage their business finances effectively. Tip #1 - Understand your business's financing structure to save you money in the long run Tip #2 - Utilize a credit card over a debit card to save on transactions and fees Tip #3 - Don't forget about succession planning and talk to professionals to ensure you have things like a will and life insurance in place Tip #4 - Ensure your business is appropriately capitalized so your cash stays with you Tip #5 - When getting set up for business financing have your business plan and financial projections ready A big thanks to Consolidated Credit Union and Provincial Credit Union for sponsoring this season of the podcast. This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay.

In this episode of the Business in the Open podcast, host Vanessa Smith sits down with Shallyn Hendry, co-founder of Nine Yard Studio, an architecture and design firm. Shallyn shares insights on navigating the complexities of starting a business, her unique partnership with co-founder Silva Stojak, and the transition from being an employee to a boss. The conversation delves into standout projects like the Charlottetown Library, the significance of community involvement, and balancing being an entrepreneur with impending motherhood. Shallyn provides practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and highlights the importance of being a 'doer.' Connect with Nine Yards Studio: https://9yarchitecture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/nine__yards__studio This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay. A big thanks to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Learn more about them here: HER Creative Co. - FREE Website Prep Checklist here Consolidated Credit Union Fiddling Fisherman Lookout Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/.

In this episode, Vanessa Smith interviews Kristina Allen, owner of Elysian Weddings and Events. Kristina shares her journey into wedding planning starting in 2016, emphasizing the value of networking and community in business growth. They discuss the evolution of her services, adapting to changing trends, and her personal experiences navigating ADHD and COVID-related challenges. Kristina highlights the importance of proper pricing, ongoing education, and maintaining a balanced work-life approach. Connect with Elysian Wedding & Events: https://elysianwedvents.com/ https://www.facebook.com/ElysianWedVents/ https://www.instagram.com/elysianwedvents This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay. A big thanks to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Learn more about them here: HER Creative Co. - FREE Website Prep Checklist here Provincial Credit Union MRSB Group Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/.

On today's episode, Vanessa Smith sits down with Stephanie MacDonald, founder of Beauty Mark Medaesthetics in Charlottetown. Stephanie shares her journey from working in acute care and emergency rooms to becoming an entrepreneur in the field of medaesthetics. They discuss the challenges and fears Steph faced transitioning from a stable job to starting her own business, and the educational pursuits and professional partnerships that have supported her along the way. The conversation highlights key team members, the importance of medical-grade skincare, and various beauty treatments offered, including injectables like Botox and dermal fillers. Stephanie also delves into the logistics of starting her business during the pandemic, handling marketing, finding suppliers, and continuous learning. Connect with Beauty Mark Medaesthetics: https://beautymarkma.janeapp.com/ https://www.instagram.com/beautymarkmedaesthetics/ https://www.facebook.com/beautymarkmedaesthetics This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay. A big thanks to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Learn more about them here: HER Creative Co. - FREE Website Prep Checklist here Provincial Credit Union Fiddling Fisherman Lookout Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/.

In this Business in the Open podcast episode, host Vanessa Smith speaks with Sarah Bennetto O'Brien, founder and CEO of The Handpie Company. Sarah shares her entrepreneurial journey, from starting in the culinary industry to establishing her successful hand pie business in Prince Edward Island and expanding into Sobeys stores across the Maritimes. The discussion covers Sarah's struggles and successes, including building a strong team, embracing local ingredients, and adapting to challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic. With a passion for food quality and community, Sarah reveals her secrets to maintaining a positive work culture and her drive to grow her business. Connect with The Handpie Company: https://handpie.ca/ https://www.instagram.com/thehandpieco/ https://www.facebook.com/thehandpieco/ This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay. A big thanks to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Learn more about them here: HER Creative Co. - FREE Website Prep Checklist here Provincial Credit Union MRSB Group Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/.

In this episode of the Business in the Open podcast, host Vanessa Smith interviews Sara Dykerman, owner of Plank and Pine Interior Design. Sara shares her unconventional journey from aspiring veterinarian and healthcare professional to successful interior designer. She talks about the pivotal moments that led her to pursue her passion for design, despite not having traditional schooling in the field. The discussion delves into her comprehensive design processes, and the importance of branding and client experience. Additionally, Sarah opens up about the challenges and successes of running her own design business, balancing work and family, and her future aspirations for Plank and Pine. Connect with Plank & Pine: https://www.plankandpineinteriordesign.com/ https://www.instagram.com/plankandpineinteriordesign/ https://www.facebook.com/plankandpineinteriordesign This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay. A big thanks to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Learn more about them here: HER Creative Co. - FREE Website Prep Checklist here Provincial Credit Union Fiddling Fisherman Lookout Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/.

In this episode of the Business in the Open podcast, host Vanessa Smith interviews CeeJay Amadi, the founder of Wheelie Bin Doctors. Vanessa and CeeJay delve into his entrepreneurial journey, starting from his roots in Nigeria to establishing a garbage bin cleaning business in PEI. They discuss CeeJay's early struggles, his inspiration from his mother's business acumen, and the transition to Canada for higher education. CeeJay shares insights on running his business, marketing efforts, community impact, and balancing multiple roles such as coaching soccer and recruiting for Holland College. His emphasis on service over profit and the significance of community support offers valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. Connect with Wheelie Bin Doctors: https://wheeliebindoctors.com/ https://www.instagram.com/wheeliebindoctors/ https://www.facebook.com/wheelibindoctors This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay. A big thanks to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Learn more about them here: HER Creative Co. - FREE Website Prep Checklist here Provincial Credit Union MRSB Group Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/.

In this episode of the Business in the Open podcast, host Vanessa Smith sits down with Jay Gallagher, founder of Fuel Your Body Healthy Meal Delivery Inc. Jay shares his inspiring journey from Ireland to Canada, detailing his transition from a career in construction to starting a successful healthy meal delivery company. The conversation covers his early struggles, the challenges and benefits of working with influencers, and the significance of community support. Jay also discusses business management and plans for future growth. Tune in to learn about the importance of quick decision-making, continuous improvement, and giving back to the community. Connect with Fuel Your Body: https://eatfyb.ca/ https://www.instagram.com/eatfyb/ https://www.facebook.com/eatfyb This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay. A big thanks to our sponsors for making this episode possible. Learn more about them here: HER Creative Co. - FREE Website Prep Checklist here Provincial Credit Union Fiddling Fisherman Lookout Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/.

On today's episode, we sit down with Colin Younker, Owner of the Spa Total Fitness Centre, a staple in the Charlottetown fitness community, and a franchisee for Little Caesars Pizza - a North American pizza chain known for their “Hot & Ready” pizzas. We chat about: How his business partnership with his cousin come about How the purchases of his businesses came to be What does a typical day look like managing multiple businesses The importance of supporting community Advice around being a leader to a large staff How he juggles work and life with three little ones at home What's next for his businesses This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay. (adam@adamramsay.com) A big thanks to our sponsors Hijinks Design Agency & Fuel Your Body for making this episode possible. Learn more about Hijinks at https://www.hijinksagency.ca/. Learn more about Fuel Your Body at https://eatfyb.ca/ Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/. Want to sponsor us? Reach out to Vanessa at vanessa@refyagency.com.

On today's episode, we sit down with Lacey Koughan, Owner of 24Strong & 24Talent - a dance studio here in Charlottetown and talent management organization for kids across Canada. We chat about: The deep meaning behind her business names How a mentor's encouragement led to the creation of her business at 16 Her growth and where her focus is these days Some of the roadblocks she has faced over the years Her thoughts of how she has built a strong organizational culture Her advice for others What's next for her businesses Connect with Lacey: https://www.instagram.com/24strong/ https://www.instagram.com/24talent_/ https://www.instagram.com/laceykoughan_/ https://www.24strong.ca/ https://www.24talent.ca/ This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay (adam@adamramsay.com) A big thanks to our sponsors Hijinks Design Agency & Fuel Your Body for making this episode possible. Learn more about Hijinks at https://www.hijinksagency.ca/. Learn more about Fuel Your Body at https://eatfyb.ca/ Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/. Want to sponsor us? Reach out to Vanessa at vanessa@refyagency.com.

On today's episode, we sit down with Jessica Gallant, Owner of Jessica Gallant Beauty - Jessica is an artist & entrepreneur. She is a performer in musical theatre, film and TV as well as the owner and founder of her beauty product business that celebrates the beauty of PEI through make-up. We chat about: How theatre led to starting her make-up career Jumping head first onto Instagram How COVID changed everything and the PEI palette was born Where she comes up with the vision for her creative marketing campaigns The importance of building a community and asking for help Her social media strategy and advice for others to get on camera What growth looks like for JGB Connect with Jessica: https://www.instagram.com/jessicagallantbeauty/ https://www.instagram.com/jessicagallant3/ https://jessicagallantbeauty.com/ This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay (adam@adamramsay.com) A big thanks to our sponsors Hijinks Design Agency & Fuel Your Body for making this episode possible. Learn more about Hijinks at https://www.hijinksagency.ca/ Learn more about Fuel Your Body at https://eatfyb.ca/ Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/. Want to sponsor us? Reach out to Vanessa at vanessa@refyagency.com

On today's episode, we sit down with Amber Paglia, Owner of Fresh Face Skincare - Amber is an esthetician with over 14 years of experience who focuses on holistic skincare offerings such as facials, and skincare retail products We chat about: How COVID led her back to PEI How she tested the waters for her business before going all in The long-time-coming decision to add a team member The boundaries she set over the years Her expansion into a product line What's on the horizon for Fresh Face Skincare Connect with Amber: https://www.instagram.com/freshfacebyamber/ https://www.freshfaceskincareinc.ca/ This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay (adam@adamramsay.com) A big thanks to our sponsors Hijinks Design Agency & Fuel Your Body for making this episode possible. Learn more about Hijinks at https://www.hijinksagency.ca/. Learn more about Fuel Your Body at https://eatfyb.ca/ Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/ Want to sponsor us? Reach out to Vanessa at vanessa@refyagency.com

On today's episode, we sit down with Coltin Handrahan, Owner of Stay Golden Custom - an Atlantic-Canadian-based business that creates custom printed clothing and merchandise lines for businesses, teams and brands. We chat about: How Coltin started his business at such a young age The fork in the road that led him to dive all-in to his t-shirt business The advantage of starting a business as a young person The small improvements over time that led to growth Where the name Stay Golden came from What his day-to-day looks like The value of mentorship What expansion looks like and advice for others Connect with Coltin: https://www.instagram.com/coltinhandrahan/ https://www.instagram.com/staygoldencustom/ https://staygolden.ca/ This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay (adam@adamramsay.com) A big thanks to our sponsors Hijinks Design Agency & Fuel Your Body for making this episode possible. Learn more about Hijinks at https://www.hijinksagency.ca/. Learn more about Fuel Your Body at https://eatfyb.ca/ Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/. Want to sponsor us? Reach out to Vanessa at vanessa@refyagency.com

On today's episode, we sit down with Amy Follwell-Harris, Owner of Bijoux by Amy - a custom jewellery design business specializing in engagement rings, wedding bands and other fine jewellery. We chat about: What brought Amy to PEI How she got into custom jewellery Her path from Christie's Auction House, to Tiffany & Co., to Bijoux by Amy What it looks like to work with a jewellery concierge The balance of being a mom and an entrepreneur Her experience of bringing her business from Ontario to PEI What growth looks like for her Advice for other dreamers Connect with Amy: https://www.instagram.com/bijouxbyamy/ https://www.facebook.com/BijouxbyAmyCanada https://www.bijouxbyamy.com/ This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay (adam@adamramsay.com) A big thanks to our sponsors Hijinks Design Agency & Fuel Your Body for making this episode possible. Learn more about Hijinks at https://www.hijinksagency.ca/. Learn more about Fuel Your Body at https://eatfyb.ca/ Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/. Want to sponsor us? Reach out to Vanessa at vanessa@refyagency.com

On today's episode, we sit down with Chef Adam Loo, Owner of Ada Culinary Studio - Charlottetown's newest culinary offering. We chat about: Adam's history in kitchens The concept for Ada Culinary Studio The inspiration behind the branding What the first two weeks of opening looked like Landing on the right location The emotions around leaving a career you've had for 14 years Advice for others What does Ada's growth look like Connect with Adam: https://www.instagram.com/ada.culinarystudio/ https://www.facebook.com/ada.culinarystudio https://www.ada-pei.com/ This episode was audio-produced by Adam Ramsay (adam@adamramsay.com) A big thanks to our sponsors Hijinks Design Agency & Fuel Your Body for making this episode possible. Learn more about Hijinks at https://www.hijinksagency.ca/. Learn more about Fuel Your Body at https://eatfyb.ca/ Want to support the show? Click follow wherever you are listening and leave us a review! And lastly, head on over to our Instagram so we can connect https://www.instagram.com/business.openpod/. Want to sponsor us? Reach out to Vanessa at vanessa@refyagency.com.