Learn tips and tricks for business success from successful entrepreneurs. Best in the Biz highlights the entrepreneurial achievements of College of the North Atlantic (CNA) students and alumni. Host Ian MacDonald, CNA Business Development Officer Entrepreneurship, chats with successful entrepreneurs about their ventures, entrepreneurial skills, and what it takes to run a business. Have a topic or question you’d like addressed? Contact Ian at cna.nl.ca/entrepreneurship

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What does it mean to grow business while protecting the land and strengthening community? In this special episode, we sit down with Charlie White, Western Vice Chief of Qalipu First Nation, and Jeffrey Young, President and CEO of the Mi’kmaw Cultural Foundation. Charlie shares his perspective on sustainability and resource protection drawing from lived experience and deep connection to the land. Jeffrey offers insight into building community-driven social enterprises, including the Mi’kmaw Cultural Foundation’s new childcare and community hub, and the realities of creating long-term sustainability beyond grants and government funding.  Want to learn more? Follow <a href="https://www.facebook.com/QalipuFirstNation" rel="nofollow">Qalipu First Nations</a> and the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mikmawcf" rel="nofollow">Mi’kmaw Cultural Foundation </a>on social media to explore initiatives and upcoming programs.

Season 6, Episode 5 -  Charlie White & Jeffrey Young

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Innovation and passion are at the center stage in this episode featuring Allison Muise of Triple Point Resources and Byron Alexander of Newfoundland Naturalist. Allison breaks down how an energy storage project in Western Newfoundland is helping make renewable energy more reliable. Byron shares his journey from decades in health and wellness to launching a land-based learning initiative. He discusses the vast potential for eco-tourism in Bay St. George region and shares his number one rule for entrepreneurs: follow your passion. To know more about these projects, please follow <a href="https://triplepoint.ca/" rel="nofollow">Triple Point Resources</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61578653570613" rel="nofollow">Newfoundland Naturalist</a>

Season 6, Episode 4 - Allison Muise & Byron Alexander

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Youth empowerment takes the spotlight in this episode featuring Kosuke Toba of Money Moose and Ciel Murray of the Mi’kmaw Cultural Foundation. Kosuke shares how he’s making financial literacy accessible and engaging for K–12 students through fast-paced workshops, real-life budgeting scenarios, and a children’s book designed to spark generational change. Ciel introduces Youth Ventures, a free program supporting Indigenous youth ages 12 to 29 with business ideas, mentorship, and even “business-in-a-box” kits to help young entrepreneurs get started.  Want to learn more? Check out <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/Money-Manual-Kosuke-Stephan-Toba/dp/B0FWYM84MZ" rel="nofollow">Money Moose</a> on Amazon and visit <a href="http://youthventuresnl.com/" rel="nofollow">YouthVenturesNL.com</a> to explore free support for young entrepreneurs.

Season 6, Episode 3 -  Kosuke Toba & Ciel Murray

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Careers don’t always follow a straight line and that’s where the learning happens. In this episode, we hear from Reisha Knott of Qalipu Holdings and Ray Brake of Digital Advertising Solutions. Reisha reflects on her journey as a CNA alumna who transitioned from finance to marketing and shares honest advice about discovering your strengths through real-world experience. Ray discusses the self-belief necessary to thrive. He highlights the wealth of local funding resources and explains why skepticism from others is often the best motivation to succeed. Tune in for a masterclass on networking, community giving, and professional pivoting.Find out more about Digital Advertising Solutions at <a href="https://www.digitaladvertisingsolutions.ca/" rel="nofollow">digitaladvertisingsolutions.ca</a>

Season 6, Episode 2 - Reisha Knott & Ray Brake

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Community, collaboration, and a shared vision for business growth. This episode features Jonah Rowsell of Qalipu Business Network and Rob Thomas of Saltbox and Everoutdoor Adventures. From supporting Indigenous entrepreneurs with business planning and partnerships to building tourism experiences rooted in culture, place, and sustainability, these conversations highlight the power of working together. Tune in to hear practical advice for aspiring business owners. Want to learn more or get involved? Visit the <a href="https://qalipubusinessnetwork.ca/" rel="nofollow">Qalipu Business Network</a> and<a href="https://www.facebook.com/saltboxbenoitscove" rel="nofollow"> Everoutdoor Adventures</a>

Season 6, Episode 1 - Jonah Rowsell & Rob Thomas

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Join us for a deep dive with Adam Rowe of SubC Imaging! Discover how this Newfoundland-based company, co-founded by two CNA grads, has innovated to become a leader in underwater imaging for marine research, offshore energy, and defense across 30+ countries. Adam shares insights on building a tech business from the ground up, navigating international markets, and the vital role of community support.

Season 5, Episode 6 - Adam Rowe, SubC Imaging

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Kayla Stride of Miawpukek First Nation never planned on becoming a ceramic artist. After being waitlisted for flight school, she enrolled in Visual Arts and discovered pottery. In her words, the clay chose her. Since then, her journey has wound between full-time teaching, performing with the all-nations drum group Eastern Owl, and building her business Red Fire Ceramics. In this episode, Kayla reflects on embracing unexpected turns, making space for art on her own terms, and discovering new ways to create by drawing on available tools and supportive communities.

Season 5, Episode 5 - Kayla Stride, Miawpukek First Nation

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Josh Taylor’s business, TxtSquad, simplifies communication for clients. He says making services more accessible can be a game-changer. Josh also shares why pacing growth matters in long-term markets and how strong relationships can open doors that speed alone cannot. Along the way, hear about TxtSquad co-founder Tim Bonnell, a CNA alum and recent winner of CNA’s Alumni Acclaim Award for Innovation. Tune in for practical insights on designing solutions that put people first.

Season 5, Episode 4 - Josh Taylor, TxtSquad

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In this episode, we sit down with Tera McDonald of Kalawikk Diversity Inc. Dive into her unique path from educator to entrepreneur, exploring how she&#39;s building inclusive spaces and empowering Indigenous women. Tera reveals the transformative power of storytelling, the critical role of transparency in business, and invaluable lessons learned from real-world challenges. A must-listen for anyone looking to lead with purpose and make a genuine impact.

Season 5, Episode 3 - Tera McDonald, Kalawik

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Welding isn’t just a trade—it’s a launchpad for entrepreneurship. In this episode, we meet the founder of DWS Mobile Welding, Dennis W. Shelley, who turned 18 years of experience into a business built on skill, patience, and grit. He grew his company from scratch, one job at a time. Hear how trusting his instincts, solving tough problems on-site, and building strong client relationships helped him go from employee to business owner in the heart of Newfoundland.

Season 5, Episode 2- Dennis Shelley, DWS Mobile Welding

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Chocolate-covered strawberries, charcuterie cups, and a whole lot of hustle—this episode features Jacqueline Burke who turned her love for making sweets into a profitable small business. From getting certified and licensed to hosting pop-ups at Marble Mountain, she’s building a brand that’s as creative as it is delicious. Tune in to hear how she juggles full-time work, entrepreneurship, and making her customers smile—one handcrafted treat at a time.Want to taste the magic? Follow Make It Sweet on Facebook to order or learn more.

Season 5, Episode 1 - Jacqueline Burke, Make It Sweet

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Mentorship and Meaningful Connection: What role do mentorship and communication play in entrepreneurial success? Jason McDonald from Futurpreneur breaks it down. He emphasizes the importance of face-to-face communication, a skill he calls a lost art. He also highlights how building genuine relationships can make a lasting difference for both mentors and entrepreneurs. Whether you&#39;re looking to start or grow your business, this episode will inspire you to start by building connections. Access Futurpreneur&#39;s services at futurpreneur.ca.

Season 4, Episode 7 - Jason McDonald, Futurpreneur

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Truth Behind Success: Baker. Teacher. Competitor. Author. TV Host. There’s not much Aaron McInnis hasn’t done. Unemployed at 23, Aaron dove into entrepreneurship with zero experience and zero regrets. Since then, he’s competed on the Food Network, launched his own show on Bell Fibe TV, and released a cookbook Happy Belly: The Cake Book. In this episode, Aaron shares how he built his business through organic social media. His advice? Be real. To order a delicious custom cake, you can find <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HappyBellyCakery" rel="nofollow">Happy Belly Cakery</a> on Facebook.

Season 4, Episode 6 - Aaron McInnis, Man Vesus Cake/Happy Belly Cakery

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Shifting Your Perception: Entrepreneurship often feels fast paced, but Sharon Evans encourages us to embrace stillness. When she stopped trying to be a meditation teacher in a traditional business sense, she began embodying her authentic self. For Sharon, every challenge holds a lesson. Reframing setbacks transforms them into opportunities. She highlights the power of cultivating calm and building growth through mindfulness. Discover your stillness at <a href="http://sevameditation.com/" rel="nofollow">sevameditation.com</a>

Season 4, Episode 5 - Sharon Evans, SEVA Meditation

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Strategy Meets Creativity: Based in Edmonton, Alberta, Dee Higdon has spent seven years building a successful business working with small to mid-size companies. She credits her background in journalism for instilling the diligence and versatility needed for entrepreneurship. Dee emphasizes the importance of aligning goals with tactics, defining a strong brand identity, and choosing clients based on mutual understanding. Discover how to create strategies that attract and retain the right audience while driving long-term success. Learn more at <a href="http://deehigdon.com/" rel="nofollow">deehigdon.com</a>.

Season 4, Episode 4 - Dee Higdon

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Owning Your Ideas: Have an idea? Then it’s time to talk about intellectual property! In this episode, Andre Gallant, an IP Advisor with the Canadian Intellectual Property Office, joins our host Ian to break down the essentials of protecting your ideas. Recorded live at the 2024 NLOWE Conference, this conversation is full of practical advice for entrepreneurs in any industry. Andre shares why IP matters, how to connect with experts early, and ways to minimize risk as you bring your ideas to life. Tune in and visit canada.ca/ip-advisors to learn more!

Season 4, Episode 3 - Andre Gallant, Canadian Intellectual Property Office

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Reap What You Sow: This episode we’re joined by Kim Fequet, owner of Root Awakenings and Tasteful Gatherings, based in Western Newfoundland. A proud alumni of CNA&#39;s Agricultural Technician program, Kim shares her journey in the agri-food industry. She highlights the Provincial Vegetable Transplant Program and how it helped her business thrive by reducing costs and boosting recognition. Kim also emphasizes the importance of having a solid business plan. Tune in for practical advice on growing a successful business from the ground up.

Season 4, Episode 2-  Kim Fequet, Root Awakenings & Tasteful Gatherings

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Propelled by Purpose: What happens when you turn your passion into a business at just 14 years old? Meet Alex Hennifent, owner of VOLTFUSE, a rider-owned headwear and apparel brand for snowboarders, skiers, skateboarders, and adventure-seekers. In this episode, Alex shares how he built a global brand rooted in community, quality, and creativity. Alex’s story is packed with advice for anyone dreaming big: learn the importance of knowing your “why,” building a reputation for quality, and seeking feedback to grow. Whether you’re into outdoor sports or starting a business, this episode will inspire you to carve your own path. Check out VOLTFUSE at voltfuse.com

Season 4, Episode 1 - Alex Hennifent, VOLTFUSE

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NL Pride, Global Impact: From health care aide to CEO of an international telemedicine company, Charlene Brophy shares her inspiring journey in our Season 3 finale. Charlene is the CEO of Fonemed and a proud CNA alumni. She joins host Ian MacDonald to discuss the strengths of running Fonemed from Newfoundland and Labrador, how the company supported families affected by 9/11, and why embracing where you’re from can be your greatest asset. Tune in for invaluable advice on diversity in leadership, learning from failure, and leveraging technology to improve services.   Find out more about Fonemed at <a href="https://www.fonemed.com/" rel="nofollow">https://www.fonemed.com/</a>.  Season 3 of Best in the Biz is brought to you in partnership with the Newfoundland and Labrador Organization of Women Entrepreneurs (NLOWE). NLOWE offers a wide range of services to members across the province. Find out how you can grow with NLOWE at <a href="https://www.nlowe.org/" rel="nofollow">nlowe.org</a>.

Season 3, Episode 8 - Charlene Brophy

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Hydroponics to Haircuts: Emily Bland, Seed-EO of SucSeed, and April Penney, owner of Refined Barbershop, prove that trusting your gut can pay off. Emily transformed a student project into a social enterprise tackling food security. And April is elevating the barbershop game and building a loyal clientele in the process. These two driven entrepreneurs offer fresh insights into building impactful, customer-focused businesses.  Check out SucSeed at <a href="https://sucseed.ca/" rel="nofollow">https://sucseed.ca/</a> and visit Refined Barbershop at <a href="http://www.refinedbarbershop.ca/" rel="nofollow">www.refinedbarbershop.ca</a>.    Season 3 of Best in the Biz is brought to you in partnership with the Newfoundland and Labrador Organization of Women Entrepreneurs (NLOWE). NLOWE offers a wide range of services to members across the province. Find out how you can grow with NLOWE at <a href="https://www.nlowe.org/" rel="nofollow">nlowe.org</a>.

Season 3, Episode 7 - Emily Bland & April Penney

Learn tips and tricks for business success from successful entrepreneurs.

Best in the Biz highlights the entrepreneurial achievements of College of the North Atlantic (CNA) students and alumni. Host Ian MacDonald, CNA Business Development Officer Entrepreneurship, chats with successful entrepreneurs about their ventures, entrepreneurial skills, and what it takes to run a business.

Have a topic or question you’d like addressed? Contact Ian at cna.nl.ca/entrepreneurship