Between Meetings

In a recent episode of Between Meetings, I had the pleasure of interviewing David Cree. Our conversation delved into his experiences leading the mission-driven venture Common Good, the challenges he faced along the way, the growth of Calgary's startup ecosystem, and his aspirations to bring innovation to city governance as a city council candidate. Takeaways: David Cree is a seasoned sales and marketing professional with a rich career driving impactful campaigns and building effective teams. He specializes in helping startups, particularly those addressing sustainable development goals, acquire and retain major clients. Combining strategic thinking, creativity, and relationship-building expertise, David has a proven track record of breaking organizations into new markets and securing high-value clients. His specialties include Social Enterprise, Mental Health, Marketing and Sales Strategy, Branding and advertising. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews featuring industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. In these interviews, we delve into the latest trends and developments in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, catching our guests between meetings in a car ride across town. Along the way, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. Each interview is packed with valuable information and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in the tech and innovation world. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. Find us on YouTube, LinkedIn, X

In a recent episode of Between Meetings, I had the pleasure of interviewing Benjamin Reeves, SVP of Data Science & Engineering at Viewpoint and the Founding Director of the YYC Data Society. Our conversation spanned a range of thought-provoking topics, including the current state of data science and AI development, the ethical implications of applying AI in the financial sector, and the immense potential for Calgary to establish itself as a leading hub for applied data science and artificial intelligence. Takeaways: Ben Reeves is a founding director of the YYC Data Society, SVP of Data Science and Engineering at Viewpoint Investment Partners, and the principal organizer of PyData Calgary. Starting his career in the energy sector, he transitioned from engineering analytics to software and big data, eventually leading mission-critical cloud SCADA systems. He later joined Viewpoint, an investment management firm, where he built the engineering and data science infrastructure for their global investment strategies. Beyond work, Ben is passionate about growing Calgary's data economy, dedicating his time to empowering others to apply their engineering and data skills in tech. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews featuring industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. In these interviews, we delve into the latest trends and developments in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, catching our guests between meetings in a car ride across town. Along the way, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. Each interview is packed with valuable information and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in the tech and innovation world. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. Find us on YouTube, LinkedIn, X

In a recent Between Meetings episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Michael Grantmyre, a Partner at Osler. During our conversation, we delved into various topics, including his role in the community, his passion for startups, Osler's packages designed to support early-stage entrepreneurs, and the reasons behind his move from Toronto to Calgary. Michael also shared common mistakes that startups make and offered valuable advice. Takeaways: Michael Grantmyre is a tech lawyer, a biz dev guy, a wanna-be skier, an outdoors enthusiast, a cyclist, a soccer player, and a tech geek. As a Partner at Osler, Michael works with tech companies that are starting out, and those that are well-established, to advise on a range of corporate matters to add every bit of value possible for their day-to-day business and legal needs. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews featuring industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. In these interviews, we delve into the latest trends and developments in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, catching our guests between meetings in a car ride across town. Along the way, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. Each interview is packed with valuable information and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in the tech and innovation world. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. Find us on YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

In a recent Between Meetings episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Sabina Bruehlmann, CEO at Nimble Science. We discussed the role of a PhD in running a startup, Sabina's unique expertise, her initial experience with startups, and why Calgary is an excellent location to start your business. Takeaways: Sabina Bruehlmann has twenty years of medical technology commercialization experience in developing and managing mature IP strategies, obtaining regulatory clearances for novel products, establishing workable quality systems, innovating and managing successful R&D programs including clinical trials, setting up small-scale regulated manufacturing, and raising funds. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews featuring industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. In these interviews, we delve into the latest trends and developments in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, catching our guests between meetings in a car ride across town. Along the way, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. Each interview is packed with valuable information and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in the tech and innovation world. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. Find us on YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

In a recent Between Meetings episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Kevin Dahl, Director of ElevateIP at Innovate Calgary. Our conversation dove into his professional journey, explored the early days of Calgary's innovation ecosystem, highlighted his impactful stint at Plug and Play, and delved into his current role at Innovate Calgary. Takeaways: Kevin Dahl has expertise in several industries including mobile payments, hospitality tech, telecommunications, music, and tech incubation. He is a geek at heart. Kevin loves technology and he is fascinated by its impact on society. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews featuring industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. In these interviews, we delve into the latest trends and developments in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, catching our guests between meetings in a car ride across town. Along the way, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. Each interview is packed with valuable information and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in the tech and innovation world. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. Find us on YouTube, LinkedIn, and Twitter. Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

In a recent installment of Between Meetings, I had the privilege of interviewing Ken Xu, a Partner at CMC Capital Partners. Our conversation delved into the formative years of the VC industry in China, his experiences at Gobi Partners, and the pivotal decisions that startup founders must navigate in a post-COVID world. Takeaways: Ken joined CMC Capital in 2018 and serves as a partner. While at CMC, he has made investments in Clobotics, Revobit, and TAGE. Before joining the Firm, Ken served as the Managing Partner of Gobi Partners China and managed the operation of the fund. During this period, his successful investment included: Lingtu Software, Madhouse Inc., CSDN, Hanchen DT, Link Motion, 36kr, etc. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews featuring industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. In these interviews, we delve into the latest trends and developments in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, catching our guests between meetings in a car ride across town. Along the way, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. Each interview is packed with valuable information and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in the tech and innovation world. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on WeChat Channel, bilibili, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Rachel Daydou, Partner at EY Fabernovel, in a recent episode of Between Meetings. We discussed various topics, including her childhood dream of visiting the Shaolin Temple, the valuable lessons she learned while running two startups, her dedication and hard work at Fabernovel, as well as the challenges that international companies encounter in China and much more. Takeaways: Rachel Daydou is a driven, authentic, and multicultural C-level executive with 10+ years of experience building innovative businesses in China. My responsibilities have covered management, sales, and marketing in various industries covering F&B distribution, Fashion retail, Digital Marketing, and Education. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews featuring industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. In these interviews, we delve into the latest trends and developments in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, catching our guests between meetings in a car ride across town. Along the way, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. Each interview is packed with valuable information and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in the tech and innovation world. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on WeChat Channel, bilibili, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

On the latest episode of Between Meetings, I had the pleasure of interviewing Oscar Sum. He discussed his international background and shared his journey from being a dentist in the UK to founding a tech startup in China. Oscar delved into the challenges of dentistry and candidly shared the mistakes he made as a first-time entrepreneur. Takeaways: Dr. Oscar Sum graduated from one of the world’s top dental programs at King’s College London before moving to Shanghai to work in the private sector & becoming the Dental Director of Global Healthcare China. He is a pioneer in AI dental care having gained a MSc in the field of Dental AI and creating his own company Aidencare. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews featuring industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. In these interviews, we delve into the latest trends and developments in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, catching our guests between meetings in a car ride across town. Along the way, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. Each interview is packed with valuable information and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in the tech and innovation world. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on WeChat Channel, bilibili, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

During a recent episode of Between Meetings, I engaged in a captivating conversation with Scott Pollack, delving into his early experiences in Asia, his remarkable entrepreneurial journey, the transformative shift from being a player to a coach, and his ongoing role as a CEO and leadership team coach. Takeaways: Almost 30 years of strategy, business development, sales, marketing, product and consulting experience primarily in Internet, digital media, telecom, technology and information services. Successful at developing businesses in the United States and Asia. Holder of an MBA/JD from UCLA, and a BA in Economics from UC Berkeley. Fully conversational in Mandarin with basic Chinese reading proficiency. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews featuring industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. In these interviews, we delve into the latest trends and developments in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, catching our guests between meetings in a car ride across town. Along the way, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. Each interview is packed with valuable information and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in the tech and innovation world. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on WeChat Channel, bilibili, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

In a recent episode of Between Meetings, Mark Bawtree discussed his journey towards sustainability, the lessons he learned while running his startups, the challenges of ESG, and how Akila is aiding its clients in making data-driven decisions. Takeaways: A hands-on technical sales professional with a focus on sustainability, energy optimisation, and clean energy solutions from hardware to software. With over 20 years of Sales, Project Management, and Key Account Management. Starting in IT and data centers, shortly after arriving in Shanghai moved into renewable energy solutions product development, design, and implementation. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews featuring industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. In these interviews, we delve into the latest trends and developments in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, catching our guests between meetings in a car ride across town. Along the way, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. Each interview is packed with valuable information and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in the tech and innovation world. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on WeChat Channel, bilibili, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

I recently hosted Thomas Knoop on the latest episode of Between Meetings. During the interview, Thomas shared his experiences of doing business in China, including the changes he has seen in the business landscape over the past decade, the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the transformation in his client base. Takeaways: Thomas Knoop is an operational and pragmatic senior executive with broad experience in all aspects of IT, Management in Customer Contact, eCommerce, Service, and CRM/ERP environments. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews featuring industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. In these interviews, we delve into the latest trends and developments in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, catching our guests between meetings in a car ride across town. Along the way, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. Each interview is packed with valuable information and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in the tech and innovation world. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on WeChat Channel, bilibili, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

I interviewed Cheng Fu on the latest episode of Between Meetings where he talked about his transformation from a backend developer to a business unit lead. We also discussed Builtopia and its benefits for SMEs and the challenges in the Metaverse industry. Takeaways: Cheng Fu is a seasoned software engineer with a proven track record in the computer software industry. He has expertise in Cloud Computing, Cloud Native Stack, and Computer Graphics. Cheng holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Software Engineering from Zhejiang University and boasts six years of experience in both team and product management. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews featuring industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. In these interviews, we delve into the latest trends and developments in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, catching our guests between meetings in a car ride across town. Along the way, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. Each interview is packed with valuable information and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in the tech and innovation world. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on WeChat Channel, bilibili, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

I interviewed Shameen Prashantham on the latest episode of "Between Meetings." We discussed the inspiration behind his book "Gorillas Can Dance" and explored the complexities of startup-corporate collaboration. Shameen shared valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and how CEIBS is grooming the next generation of leaders. Takeaways: Dr. Shameen Prashantham is a Professor of International Business and Strategy and Associate Dean (MBA) at CEIBS in Shanghai. His latest book, Gorillas Can Dance, offers managers in large corporations a proven guide to partnering and collaborating with startups to improve innovation by delivering the “where,” “why,” and “how” of corporation-startup partnerships. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews featuring industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. In these interviews, we delve into the latest trends and developments in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, catching our guests between meetings in a car ride across town. Along the way, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. Each interview is packed with valuable information and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in the tech and innovation world. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on WeChat Channel, bilibili, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

We discussed Vincent's family business, the concept of sustainability in fashion, perceptions of social entrepreneurship, and the role of technology in a sustainable fashion. He shared the story of REMAKEHUB and offered advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Takeaways: Vincent Djen is a fashion entrepreneur, innovator, mentor, and manufacturer with 16 years of experience. He works with startups and big brands in using his knowledge, network, and resources to turn their designs into products and make their products and processes more sustainable and grow their businesses. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews featuring industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. In these interviews, we delve into the latest trends and developments in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, catching our guests between meetings in a car ride across town. Along the way, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. Each interview is packed with valuable information and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in the tech and innovation world. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on WeChat Channel, bilibili, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

We discussed Cyril's background and experiences as an entrepreneur, the changes and developments in eCommerce in recent years, the use of key opinion leaders (KOLs) in marketing, and the challenges Chinese brands face when expanding globally, among other related topics. Takeaways: Cyril has 20 years of experience in digital, eCommerce, IT, and marketing from a background in leading 4A agencies. He has supported global clients from top MNCs in FMCG, luxury, beauty & skincare, home appliances, and pharmaceutical/cosmeceutical categories, utilizing digital solutions and innovations to drive omni-commerce and customer connection, resulting in acceleration of growth for clients. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews featuring industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. In these interviews, we delve into the latest trends and developments in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, catching our guests between meetings in a car ride across town. Along the way, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. Each interview is packed with valuable information and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in the tech and innovation world. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on WeChat Channel, bilibili, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

Takeaways: Brian's career had bounced between places in the US and China in the last 20+ years, with opportunities to work for some of the world's most respected companies, the likes of Disney and Coca-Cola, leading finance teams and partnering with GM for business growth and strategies. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews featuring industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. In these interviews, we delve into the latest trends and developments in innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship, catching our guests between meetings in a car ride across town. Along the way, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. Each interview is packed with valuable information and inspiration for anyone looking to make an impact in the tech and innovation world. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on WeChat Channel, bilibili, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

Takeaways: Born and raised in California, Cory Arth is an APTA American Board-Certified Doctor of Physical Therapy. Cory has worked in team sports settings around the world including China, Qatar, and Brazil, and also worked with athletes participating in the Olympics, NBA, MLB, NFL, and additional professional leagues and competitions globally. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews in which we discuss innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship. Our guests are industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. We catch them between meetings. In a car ride across town, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on WeChat Channel, bilibili, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

Takeaways: Ellen Wu has a proven track record of solving complex business challenges with innovative technology strategies. A strong passion for advancing sustainability, ethical AI, diversity, and leadership. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews in which we discuss innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship. Our guests are industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. We catch them between meetings. In a car ride across town, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on WeChat Channel, bilibili, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

Takeaways: Jonathan Chapon is an experienced General Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the insurance industry internationally. Skilled in business development, negotiation, business planning, and management. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews in which we discuss innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship. Our guests are industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. We catch them between meetings. In a car ride across town, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on WeChat Channel, bilibili, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.

Takeaways: Simon Wang is a senior executive with diversified industry experiences. He has plenty of experience leading the business, design, and product teams in both multinational and local enterprises with outstanding achievements. With his computer science background, he has always been committed to using technological innovation to break through industrial barriers and optimize the user experience. Between Meetings is a series of on-the-go interviews in which we discuss innovation, technology, and entrepreneurship. Our guests are industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and corporate innovators. We catch them between meetings. In a car ride across town, they share inspiring stories, personal experiences, industry insights, and practical advice on how to scale your way to success. 🎙 Follow the host Marian Danko on LinkedIn. YouTube, LinkedIn, Twitter Subscribe to the podcast via other services to be notified when a new episode is released. We are on WeChat Channel, bilibili, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.