Ace Burpee on Building a Brand, Giving Back, and Staying Grounded

The Executive Hotseat Podcast | Episode 06: Ace Burpee with Virgin 103.1

In this episode, hosts Lisa Thompson and Amanda Buhse sit down with the legendary Ace Burpee, celebrated radio personality and host of Winnipeg's premiere morning show on Virgin 103.1. Ace shares his fascinating journey from small-town beginnings in Cooks Creek to becoming one of Winnipeg’s most iconic figures. Known for his deep love for the community and unwavering commitment to local causes, Ace brings valuable insights into leadership, philanthropy, and staying true to oneself.

From his creative start in journalism to his candid thoughts on fame and introversion, Ace opens up about the lessons learned along the way. He also shares his passion for the outdoors, his unique perspective on Winnipeg’s underdog spirit, and why giving back is essential for personal and professional growth. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with one of Manitoba’s most beloved voices.

Key Points:

• Ace’s unexpected journey into radio and how he embraced creative opportunities.
• Balancing introversion with a high-profile public life.
• The power of saying “yes” and staying prepared in both life and business.
• Why Winnipeg’s flaws make it a place worth staying and investing in.
• The Canadian Animal Blood Bank and the importance of philanthropy.

Guest’s Links:

• Follow Ace Burpee on Virgin 103.1’s Website
• Learn about the Canadian Animal Blood Bank
• Connect with Ace on Instagram
• Top 100 Most Facinating Manitobans

Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat Podcast:

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The Executive Hotseat Podcast | Episode 5

Human-Centric Leadership: Empowering Community through Innovation, Collaboration & Heart - Insights from Loren Remillard, CEO, Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce.

In this episode, hosts Lisa Thompson and Amanda Buhse engage in a compelling conversation with Loren Remillard, President and CEO of the Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce. Loren shares his inspiring journey, from his roots in a family-run business to leading an organization dedicated to inclusivity, advocacy, and empowering the local community.

Under Loren’s visionary leadership, the Winnipeg Chamber has evolved to prioritize human-centric approaches, champion innovation, and foster connections that strengthen businesses and the city as a whole. Join us as Loren shares invaluable insights on resilience, authentic leadership, and his aspirations for Winnipeg’s future.

Key Points:

• Loren’s personal story of resilience, inspired by his family’s entrepreneurial journey.
• The Winnipeg Chamber’s transformation into a more diverse and inclusive organization.
• Addressing critical business challenges such as housing and downtown revitalization.
• The importance of human-centric leadership: building character, empowering teams, and fostering collaboration.
• Loren’s vision for creating a thriving, barrier-free ecosystem for local businesses.

Guest’s Links:

• The Winnipeg Chamber of Commerce’s Website – click here.
• Connect with Loren on LinkedIn.

Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat Podcast:

• Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.
• The Exec[utive] Hotseat’s Instagram – Follow Us!
• Connect with us on LinkedIn
• Interested in sponsoring or partnering with the podcast? Connect with us on our website or social media to learn more about 2025 opportunities!

We can't wait to connect with you and share more stories and talk shop!

Lisa + Amanda

The Exec Hotseat Podcast | Episode 4: Dr. Norman Silver / Dave Berkowits of QDoc

In this episode, hosts Lisa Thompson and Amanda Buhse dive into an inspiring conversation with Dr. Norman Silver and Dave Berkowits, CEO + CTO, of QDoc Virtual Healthcare. Dr. Silver, a seasoned healthcare leader and innovator, shares his journey from pediatric emergency physician to entrepreneur, along side his brother in law, Dave Berkowits. Listen as they detail their journey and how they identified critical gaps in healthcare - creating QDoc to bridge them.

QDoc is a groundbreaking platform that connects Canadians to medical care through a user-friendly, virtual model, ensuring healthcare access regardless of location or socioeconomic status. Tune-in to hear about Dr. Silver’s approach to innovation, family-driven entrepreneurship, and the importance of validating ideas and pivoting when necessary.

Key Points:

• Dr. Silver’s career transition from emergency care to entrepreneurship and healthcare technology.
• The unique virtual care model of QDoc, offering patients seamless access to doctors in real-time.
• Challenges in navigating Canada’s healthcare regulations and scaling QDoc’s services.
• Lessons in risk-taking, validating ideas, and prioritizing the patient experience.
• How technology and family collaboration play crucial roles in QDoc’s success and growth.

Guest’s Links:

• Follow Dr. Norman Silver and QDoc via LinkedIn
• QDoc Virtual Healthcare – click here!

Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat Podcast:

• Follow The Exec[utive] Hotseat on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major podcast platforms.
• The Exec[utive] Hotseat’s Instagram – Follow Us!
• Interested in sponsoring or partnering with the podcast? Connect with us on our website or social media to learn more about 2025 opportunities!