Episodes

  • 244 | Wired Wisdom: Unraveling the Mysteries of Procurement Fraud with Stephanie Forbes Part 1

    244 | Wired Wisdom: Unraveling the Mysteries of Procurement Fraud with Stephanie Forbes Part 1
    Sep 27 2024

    Welcome to a new episode of the Art of Consulting podcast, where we engage in deep discussions with some of the most knowledgeable and insightful professionals in the business world. Today, we are privileged to welcome Ms. Stephanie Forbes back to the show. Recognized as a national expert in value chain management, Stephanie brings over two decades of experience managing multi-billion dollar projects throughout Canada and the United States. Currently serving as interim vice chair of Supply Chain Canada, Alberta Institute, Stephanie is frequently sought after for her expertise and is known for her impact on the industry through her roles in leading panels, webinars, and podcasts, and as an international speaker. In this episode, Stephanie enlightens us on the complex and pressing issue of procurement fraud in the supply chain space. She shares her wealth of knowledge on the types of fraud organizations might encounter, the effects of such illegal acts, and the crucial steps necessary to prevent them. Prepare for an in-depth look at the importance of governance models, complex problem-solving, and the nuances of fraud prevention within the supply chain.

    00:13 Introduction:
    We introduce Ms. Stephanie Forbes, a value chain expert with extensive experience in leading significant projects across North America. Her involvement with Supply Chain Canada and her reputation as an international speaker set the tone for our discussion on procurement fraud.

    00:56 Stephanie's Vast Experience:
    Stephanie's rich background includes the creation of the Supply Chain Excellence Forum and her work with some of the largest organizations in North America. Her passion for complex problem-solving has made her an authoritative voice in the industry.

    01:40 The Issue of Fraud in Supply Chains:
    We dive into the significant problem of fraud within supply chains, particularly its relation to ERP systems, and Stephanie's encounters with companies that fraudulent activities have victimized.

    02:48 What Is Procurement Fraud?:
    Stephanie offers a precise definition of procurement fraud and discusses its impact on organizations, providing a foundation for further exploration of the subject.

    03:29 Types of Procurement Fraud:
    Detailed explanation of various forms of procurement fraud, including employee collusion, bribery, conflicts of interest, bid rigging, and product substitution, shedding light on their intricacies and consequences.

    05:29 The Case of Data Manipulation and Fraud:
    Stephanie shares a real-life example of data manipulation that led to a $9 million financial loss, emphasizing the need for stringent data management and control measures to prevent such fraud.

    14:54 The Role of ERP Systems:
    The conversation turns to how Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems can play a crucial role in maintaining compliance data and acting as a deterrent against fraud.

    22:43 Lessons Learned from Fraud Cases:
    Stephanie emphasizes the importance of being open about instances of fraud, sharing lessons learned, and implementing continuous education and robust auditing processes to mitigate future risks.

    31:58 Importance of Training in Fraud Prevention:
    The discussion highlights the significance of training staff, sharing information on fraud occurrences, and encouraging a culture of continuous learning to prevent fraudulent activities.

    Episode Highlights:

    00:13 - Introducing the expertise and contributions of Stephanie Forbes in the supply chain management sector.
    05:29 - Insights into the complex world of procurement fraud and the real consequences for organizations.
    14:54 - Discussing the preventative measures and governance that can be put in place to combat fraud within companies.
    31:58 - The importance of employee education and transparent communication in preventing and addressing fraud.

    About Our Guest:
    Stephanie Forbes is a seasoned executive adept in business, risk management, and supply chain disciplines. She has driven transformation within teams, projects, and programs in the energy and construction sectors, leaving a lasting impact. Stephanie is dedicated to advancing the supply chain profession, creating value through her speaking engagements, mentorship, and network. Her achievements include implementing best-in-class programs like full life cycle governance and supplier life cycle management. With an eye toward future opportunities, Stephanie is driven to contribute significantly to her industry and the field of supply chain management.

    Where to Find Our Guest Online:
    LinkedIn - Stephanie Forbes: http://linkedin.com/in/calgaryforbes
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    34 mins
  • 243 | Navigating Success: Pat Kaiser's Trailblazing Journey in Tech Part 2

    243 | Navigating Success: Pat Kaiser's Trailblazing Journey in Tech Part 2
    Sep 20 2024
    Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Art of Consulting podcast, where we delve into the personal and professional journeys of some of the most inspiring leaders in the industry. In today’s special installment, we are thrilled to welcome Ms. Pat Kaiser, a dynamic leader whose extensive background spans operations, marketing, sales, IT, HR, risk management, and mergers and acquisitions. Join us as we explore Pat’s journey, from her impactful career in consulting to her significant contributions to organizations like Agilus Work Solutions. Along the way, Pat shares invaluable insights on preparing a business for sale, the role of intellectual property in consulting, and navigating the challenges of being an independent contractor versus an employee. 00:13 - Introduction: Speaker 1 welcomes the listeners and introduces the guest, Pat Kaiser, who has been a role model and mentor throughout their career in consulting. 00:15 - 00:41 - Introduction Continued: Speaker 2 elaborates on Pat Kaiser’s impressive career in IT and consulting, highlighting her leadership roles in multinational organizations and her experience guiding companies through mergers and acquisitions. 00:41 - 01:38 - Preparing a Business for Sale: Pat discusses the process of preparing a business for sale, which involves ensuring documentation accuracy, maintaining clean financials, and setting up a data room. She explains the importance of keeping the staff unaware of the sale preparation to maintain business stability. 01:38 - 02:20 - Confidentiality and Preparation: Pat elaborates on the necessity of discretion while prepping the business for sale and creating a teaser document for potential buyers. She also talks about the development of a confidential information memorandum (CIM) that provides detailed business insights to interested parties. 02:20 - 02:58 - Engaging Interested Parties: Pat explains the role of letters of intent in the sale process and how they serve as binding agreements indicating serious interest from potential buyers. She highlights the competitive nature of these engagements, particularly when competitors are involved. 02:58 - 03:35 - Valuation of Consulting Firms: Pat discusses the importance of intellectual property, management team stability, and staff skills in the valuation of consulting firms. She emphasizes that the primary assets being acquired are the people and the goodwill with clients. 03:35 - 04:48 - Value of Intellectual Property: Pat underscores the value of intellectual property in a consulting firm, including software and documented best practices that can enhance business operations and client implementations. 04:48 - 05:33 - Importance of Client Lists: Pat emphasizes that client lists are often the most critical asset in a consulting firm’s valuation, followed by the skills and experience of the staff and intellectual property. 05:33 - 07:46 - Detractors from Business Value: Pat identifies factors that detract from a business’s value, such as restrictive client contracts, debt, poor reputation, and inexperienced staff. She explains the importance of managing these elements to maintain business value. 07:46 - 09:40 - Independent Contractor vs. Employee: Pat compares the pros and cons of being an independent contractor versus an employee. She discusses financial rewards, job stability, and opportunities for professional growth in both roles. 09:40 - 13:34 - Discipline in Consulting: Pat highlights the need for discipline as a consultant, from understanding client environments to managing time and continuous learning. She shares tips on how consultants can stay relevant and valuable in the industry. 13:34 - 14:36 - Continuous Learning: The discussion emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and investing in personal development to enhance one’s skills and certifications, ensuring long-term success in consulting. 14:36 - 24:47 - Closing Insights: Pat reflects on the significance of having intentional plans and being proactive in career development, both as an employee and a consultant. She shares personal anecdotes and advice on navigating the consulting industry successfully. Episode Highlights 00:13 - 00:15 - Introduction: Speaker 1 welcomes listeners and introduces the episode. 00:15 - 00:41 - Today's Guest: Speaker 2 introduces Pat Kaiser, highlighting her career in consulting and IT. 00:41 - 00:47 - Opening Question: Speaker 1 asks about preparing a business for sale. 00:48 - 01:38 - Preparing a Business for Sale: Pat explains key steps, focusing on documentation, financials, and confidentiality. 01:38 - 02:20 - Confidential Preparation: Pat discusses keeping sale plans discreet and creating teaser documents and CIMs. 02:20 - 02:58 - Engaging Buyers: Pat covers engaging buyers through letters of intent and binding agreements. 02:58 - 03:35 - Business Valuation: Key assets in a firm’s valuation, including intellectual property and client goodwill. 03:35 - 04:48 - ...
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    25 mins
  • 242 | Navigating Success: Pat Kaiser's Trailblazing Journey in Tech Part 1

    242 | Navigating Success: Pat Kaiser's Trailblazing Journey in Tech Part 1
    Sep 13 2024
    Welcome to another enlightening episode of the Art of Consulting podcast, where we take deep dives into the personal and professional journeys of some of the most inspiring leaders in the industry. In today's special installment, we are thrilled to welcome none other than Ms. Pat Kaiser. Pat is a beacon of dynamic leadership, known for her hands-on approach and her uncanny ability to foster high-performing teams. Her extensive background covers a gamut of functions including operations, marketing, sales, IT, HR, risk management, and mergers and acquisitions, making her insights invaluable. Join us as we explore Pat's storied career, her role in shaping successful organizations like Agilus Work Solutions, and her profound impact on the community through her board positions with the Calgary Homeless Foundation and the Alberta Electric System Operator. Get ready for a session rich in wisdom, lessons learned, and strategies that drive both personal and organizational success. 00:13 Introduction: Welcome to the Art of Consulting podcast! In today's episode, we introduce Ms. Pat Kaiser, an inspiring leader and mentor to many. Pat's diverse background encompasses operations, marketing, sales, IT, HR, risk management, and M&A activities. She sets the stage for a deep dive into her remarkable career journey. 00:55 Pat Kaiser's Role at Agilus: Pat Kaiser served as the president of the Office Professionals and Light Industrial team at Agilus Work Solutions. Her commitment to building diverse, flexible, and resilient workforces is a testament to her leadership and passion for fostering collaborative environments that drive results. 01:52 Pat's Community Involvement: Beyond her corporate role, Pat is actively involved in the community, contributing her expertise as the board chair of the Calgary Homeless Foundation and a board member of the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO). 02:42 Pat's Career Beginnings: Pat shares the serendipitous start to her career in IT consulting, which began with a neighbor's suggestion and led to her landing a job with Montage, a pivotal moment that would shape her career path. 03:29 Pat's Progression at Montage: Pat quickly moved from salesperson to branch manager at Montage, highlighting her natural leadership and operational skills that catalyzed the branch's success. 05:32 Sales Experience in IT: Pat discusses the parallels between sales and consulting, emphasizing the importance of networking, relationship building, and being a trusted partner to clients. 07:31 Consulting Insights: Drawing on her sales experience, Pat offers valuable advice to consultants on the importance of collaboration, establishing credibility, and the significance of strong work ethics. 08:18 Building Relationships: The discussion delves into the role of authenticity and the incremental process of building trust and forming lasting professional relationships. 10:10 Leadership and Team Building: Pat reflects on her ability to bring people together, the power of collaborative vision, and the joy she finds in creating a work culture that values and uplifts its members. 15:40 Pat's Time at Enable and Sierra Systems: Pat's journey took her from Enable to Sierra Systems, where she led as COO for nearly a decade, stressing the critical role of corporate culture and her efforts to replicate the vibrant environment she cherished at Montage. 19:57 Transition and Sale of Business: Pat outlines the strategic process of preparing and selling Sierra Systems to NTT Data Services, providing insight into the complexities of M&A activities involving multiple international branches. 22:30 Transition to Agilus Work Solutions: After the sale of Sierra Systems, Pat moved to Agilus Work Solutions, where she continued her executive trajectory, showcasing her expertise in corporate development and leadership. Episode Highlights: 00:13 - Introduction of Pat Kaiser's vast experience in various leadership roles. 05:32 - Insights into Pat's approach to building performance-driven teams and creating impactful work cultures. 00:55 - Pat's journey from entering the IT industry to becoming a key player in executive leadership. 05:32 - The importance of sales and consulting synergy in achieving business success. 08:18 - Strategies for effective networking, relationship building, and team collaboration. 19:57 - Pat's role in significant M&A ventures and transitioning organizations. About Our Guest Today: Ms. Pat Kaiser is known for her dynamic leadership and her ability to inspire and cultivate high-performance teams. With a proven track record in multiple business areas, Pat's expertise extends to community involvement, where she serves on various boards, contributing significantly to the organizations she supports. Where to find Our Guest online: LinkedIn - Patricia Kaiser: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricia-kaiser-b-comm-icd-d-0337b14/?originalSubdomain=ca Agilus Work Solutions: https://www.agilus.ca/
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    24 mins
  • 241 | Revolutionizing Energy: A Deep Dive with Renewell Energy's CTO on Repurposing Abandoned Oil Wells - Part 2

    241 | Revolutionizing Energy: A Deep Dive with Renewell Energy's CTO on Repurposing Abandoned Oil Wells - Part 2
    Sep 6 2024

    In this engaging second part of our interview with Stefan Streckfus, CTO of Renewell Energy, we continue our exploration of the revolutionary approach to repurposing abandoned oil wells for renewable energy storage. Stefan delves deeper into the operational and technical aspects of this transformative technology, sharing insights from his background in innovation and commercialization. We also discuss the future of energy storage, environmental sustainability, and how Renewell Energy is paving the way for a cleaner, greener future.

    Welcome and Recap (00:13)
    Cat kicks off the episode by welcoming listeners and providing a brief recap of Part 1, setting the stage for this deep dive into energy storage innovations.

    Technical Overview of Repurposing Oil Wells (00:13 - 05:02)
    Stefan explains the detailed process of converting abandoned oil wells into energy storage systems, focusing on the engineering and technology behind it.

    Scaling the Technology for Broader Impact (05:03 - 10:45)
    The discussion turns to scaling this innovative solution, as Stefan outlines the challenges and opportunities in expanding to different regions and industries.

    Partnerships and Regulatory Challenges (10:46 - 15:29)
    Stefan discusses the importance of strategic partnerships with governments, energy companies, and regulatory bodies in making this solution a success.

    Environmental and Economic Benefits (15:30 - 21:15)
    Stefan shares how Renewell Energy’s technology offers both environmental and economic benefits, touching on cost-effective energy storage and reducing the environmental impact of abandoned oil wells.

    Lessons Learned and Next Steps (21:16 - 28:10)
    Reflecting on Renewell Energy's journey so far, Stefan highlights key lessons learned from recent installations and the company’s roadmap for future projects.

    Closing Thoughts and Future Innovations (28:11 - 34:10)
    Cat and Stefan wrap up the conversation by looking ahead to future innovations in renewable energy and how Renewell Energy plans to continue driving change in the industry.

    Outreach and Contact Information (34:11 - 34:40)
    Stefan invites listeners to connect with Renewell Energy and explore potential collaborations.

    Closing Remarks (34:41 - 35:02)
    Cat thanks Stefan for the insightful conversation and reminds listeners to stay tuned for more inspiring episodes.

    Outro (35:02 - 35:20)
    Cat wraps up the episode, encouraging listeners to subscribe and share their thoughts on the topics discussed.

    Where to Find Our Guest Online:

    • Renewell Energy Website: https://renewellenergy.com/

    • Stefan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefan-streckfus-480ab037/
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    35 mins
  • 240 | Revolutionizing Energy: A Deep Dive with Renewell Energy's CTO on Repurposing Abandoned Oil Wells - Part 1

    240 | Revolutionizing Energy: A Deep Dive with Renewell Energy's CTO on Repurposing Abandoned Oil Wells - Part 1
    Jul 26 2024
    In this episode of The Art of Consulting Podcast, Cat sits down with Stefan Streckfus, co-founder and CTO of Renewell Energy. With nearly 5 years in renewable energy innovation and a background in designing scalable solutions for crises and commercial efficiency, Stefan shares his journey, challenges, and vision for the future of sustainable energy. Tune in for insights on impactful projects and advice for aspiring innovators. Welcome and Introduction 00:13 - 00:55 Hey, what is up you guys? It's Cat. Today we have a special guest, Stefan Streckfus, co-founder and CTO of Renewell Energy. With nearly 5 years in renewable energy innovation, Stefan is a Westgate fellow and former energy engineer at Mawaw Modular. He designed scalable renewable energy systems for refugee crises and founded Strekworks LLC, a consulting firm. He also led equipment innovation at Restaurant Brands International, improving efficiency and quality for brands like Burger King and Tim Hortons. Welcome, Stefan! Guest Introduction 00:56 - 03:40 Thanks, Cat! It’s great to be here. I’m excited to share my journey in the renewable energy sector and talk about some of the projects I’ve been involved with. Journey into Renewable Energy 03:41 - 08:15 Let's start with your journey. How did you get into renewable energy? It began with my engineering background. At Mawaw Modular, I worked on renewable energy solutions for refugee camps, which sparked my interest in this field. That experience led me to co-found Renewell Energy. Projects and Innovations 08:16 - 15:45 Can you share more about the projects you’ve worked on? Sure. At Renewell Energy, we focus on scalable solutions for sustainable energy. One notable project was developing a solar-powered water purification system for remote areas. At Strekworks LLC, I consulted on renewable energy projects, helping companies transition to greener solutions. Impact of Renewable Energy 15:46 - 20:10 What impact have these projects had on the communities and companies you worked with? The impact has been significant. For example, the solar-powered water purification system has provided clean water to thousands of people in remote areas. At Restaurant Brands International, the innovations led to improved energy efficiency and cost savings. Challenges in the Field 20:11 - 25:50 What are some of the challenges you’ve faced in the renewable energy sector? One major challenge is the initial cost of implementing renewable energy solutions. There’s also the need for continuous innovation to keep up with the growing demand for sustainable energy. Future of Renewable Energy 25:51 - 30:25 Where do you see the future of renewable energy heading? I believe we’ll see more integration of renewable energy into everyday life. Innovations in storage and efficiency will make renewable energy more accessible and affordable. Advice for Aspiring Innovators 30:26 - 35:10 What advice would you give to someone looking to get into the renewable energy field? Stay curious and keep learning. The renewable energy field is constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest technologies and trends. Networking and gaining hands-on experience are also crucial. Closing Remarks 35:11 - 36:30 Thank you so much, Stefan, for sharing your insights and experiences. Thank you, Cat. It’s been a pleasure talking with you. Outro 36:31 - 37:00 That’s all for today’s episode, folks. Thank you for tuning in. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review. See you next time! Episode Highlights: Welcome and Introduction 00:13 - 00:55 Cat introduces Stefan Streckfus, co-founder and CTO of Renewell Energy. Guest Introduction 00:56 - 03:40 Stefan shares his background and experience. Journey into Renewable Energy 03:41 - 08:15 How Stefan got into renewable energy. Projects and Innovations 08:16 - 15:45 Stefan discusses key projects and innovations. Impact of Renewable Energy 15:46 - 20:10 The impact of Stefan's projects on communities and companies. Challenges in the Field 20:11 - 25:50 Challenges faced in the renewable energy sector. Future of Renewable Energy 25:51 - 30:25 Stefan's vision for the future of renewable energy. Advice for Aspiring Innovators 30:26 - 35:10 Advice for those looking to enter the renewable energy field. Closing Remarks 35:11 - 36:30 Cat thanks Stefan for sharing his insights. Outro 36:31 - 37:00 Cat wraps up the episode and encourages listeners to subscribe. About Our Guest Today: Stefan Streckfus is the CTO at Renewell Energy. His career has focused on the development and implementation of new technologies in commercial settings. Prior to Renewell Energy, Stefan was Sr. Manager of Equipment Innovation at RBI (Burger King, Tim Hortons, and Popeyes) for 5 years, where he focused on equipment innovation, commercialization and deployment. In 2015, he received his first patent for a modification to the broiler. Stefan earned his MS in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Stanford ...
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    26 mins
  • 239 | From Tech Entrepreneur To Amazon: Da Li's Experience for Entrepreneurial Success Part 2

    239 | From Tech Entrepreneur To Amazon: Da Li's Experience for Entrepreneurial Success Part 2
    Jul 19 2024

    In this episode, we had the pleasure of hosting Da Li, a serial entrepreneur who shared his remarkable journey from entrepreneurship in China to creating sustainable home products. Da Li's diverse experiences and insights provided an enriching conversation on entrepreneurship and cross-cultural engagement.

    1. Entrepreneurial Journey in China (00:00-02:16)

    • Da Li founded DEYA Tech, becoming a market leader in China, catering to major clients domestically and internationally, including regions along the Belt and Road initiative.

    • He discussed the challenges faced in the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship in China, highlighting the impact of rising labor costs and changing market dynamics.

    2. Challenges of Business in China (02:16-13:00)

    • Da Li emphasized the increasing difficulty of bootstrapping and organic growth in the current market, reflecting on the changes in labor costs and the landscape compared to previous years.

    • He shared lessons learned from DEYA Tech, including the importance of embracing failure, the significance of swift adaptation, and recognizing the right timing for pivoting in business.

    3. Engaging with High-Profile Dignitaries (13:00-18:00)

    • Da Li shared intriguing stories of interacting with high-profile dignitaries, providing insights into encounters with a Saudi Prince and the late Paul Allen, shedding light on the dynamics and behind-the-scenes interactions in such scenarios.

    4. Creating Sustainable Home Products (18:00-29:12)

    • Introduction to Kunaboo, a brand by Kingsway Global Inc., focusing on sustainable home products with a family-oriented touch, emphasizing the significance of the name and the inherent message behind it.

    • The discussion included the principles of the brand, the family-oriented feel of the products, and the value of having such items in homes.

    5. Life Lessons from Entrepreneurship (29:12-32:00)

    • Da Li emphasized the empowering nature of entrepreneurship, highlighting the sense of agency, responsibility, and the lasting impact it has on personal growth and accountability.

    Episode Highlights:

    • 00:00 - Entrepreneurial journey in China, founding DEYA Tech and serving major clients nationally and internationally.

    • 2:16 - Challenges of business in China, rising labor costs, and the changing landscape of entrepreneurship.

    • 13:00 - Lessons learned from DEYA Tech, embracing failure, and the importance of swift adaptation in business.

    • 18:00 - Engaging with high-profile dignitaries, sharing encounters with a Saudi Prince and the late Paul Allen.

    • 29:12 - Creating sustainable home products, introducing the brand Kunaboo and its significance.

    • 32:00 - Life lessons from entrepreneurship, emphasizing agency, responsibility, and personal growth.

    About Our Guest Today

    Da Li is a serial entrepreneur with a wealth of experience in entrepreneurship, cross-cultural dynamics, and sustainable products. He founded Kingsway Global Inc. and leads Peer Communications and Wellcee.

    Where to find Our Guest online

    https://www.kunaboo.com/

    https://www.facebook.com/mykunaboo/

    https://www.instagram.com/mykunaboo/

    https://www.wellcee.com/

    https://www.linkedin.com/in/dali1/
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    31 mins
  • 238 | From Tech Entrepreneur To Amazon: Da Li's Experience for Entrepreneurial Success Part 1

    238 | From Tech Entrepreneur To Amazon: Da Li's Experience for Entrepreneurial Success Part 1
    Jul 12 2024
    Welcome back to The Art of Consulting Podcast! In this episode, we feature Da Li, a serial entrepreneur with a rich background in IT and enterprise software development. Da Li shares insights into his diverse ventures, including Kingsway Global Inc., Peer Communications, and Wellcee, showcasing his dedication to sustainable home products, marketing services for luxury brands, and the development of a leading lifestyle and roommate-seeking platform. 00:06 Introduction: Host Kat introduces Da Li as a special guest, highlighting his extensive experience as a serial entrepreneur and the founder of various successful ventures. His expertise in sustainable home products, marketing services for luxury brands, and the establishment of Wellcee, a premier roommate-seeking platform, set the stage for an engaging conversation that follows. 01:11 Current Ventures Overview: Da Li delves into the founding of Wellcee, a platform designed to address the housing challenges faced by young individuals in bustling cities like Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong. His role as an investor and insights into Wellcee's growth and significance within the community form a central part of the discussion. 05:16 Platform Expansion and Unique Niche: Da Li provides specific details about Wellcee's growth, highlighting its evolution from a roommate-finding platform to a comprehensive lifestyle platform connecting young people in large cities. He emphasizes the platform's ability to maintain a high-touch approach while expanding across various cities and its significant impact in a market dominated by large platforms. 11:03 Lifestyle Platform and Community Engagement: Da Li explores the multifaceted nature of wellness, underscoring its impact on the lives of young individuals. He discusses the platform's unique features, such as enabling users to connect, understand shared interests, and select roommates based on lifestyle choices, thereby creating a personalized experience for its users. 12:04 Inclusivity and Community Support: The conversation shifts to Wellcee's role in fostering inclusivity, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community in China. Da Li highlights the platform's unique approach in facilitating pre-vetting and providing a safe space for individuals to express their identities and find compatible living arrangements, reflecting Wellcee's inclusive values. 18:02 Focus on Sustainable Home Products: Transitioning to another venture, Da Li shares his journey in establishing Kingsway Global Inc., emphasizing the company's commitment to producing sustainable bamboo home products. He sheds light on the importance of FSC certification in the production process and its significant environmental and cultural impact. 23:03 Embracing Sustainable Practices: Da Li elaborates on the decision to prioritize FSC certification for bamboo products, emphasizing the alignment of sustainable practices with personal values. He discusses the strategic differentiation of the business and the critical role of sustainable endeavors in driving product excellence within a competitive market. 27:27 Transition from IT to Entrepreneurship: Da Li reflects on his transition from IT to entrepreneurship, revealing the spontaneous nature of his journey and the organic growth of his early business, Dietech. He shares insights into breaking into the industry, securing initial clients, and the balance between the enthusiasm of youth and the wisdom of experience in entrepreneurial pursuits. 30:00 Conclusion: The show closes with a discussion on the dynamics of entrepreneurship, highlighting the blend of intuition and data-driven decision-making. The conversation with Da Li enriches the understanding of sustainable ventures, strategic differentiation, and the transformative impact on community building and lifestyle platforms. Episode Highlights: 00:06 Introduction of Da Li: Serial entrepreneur and founder of Wellcee, with expertise in sustainable home products and roommate-seeking platforms. 01:11 Wellcee Overview: Da Li discusses Wellcee's niche, growth, and impact in metropolitan communities through lifestyle connections and inclusivity. 05:16 Expansion and Inclusivity: Insights into Wellcee's evolution, emphasizing its inclusive approach to the LGBTQ+ community. 11:03 Sustainable Home Products: Da Li highlights Kingsway Global Inc.'s commitment to FSC-certified bamboo products and environmental values. 23:03 Embracing Sustainability: The importance of FSC certification and its impact in a competitive market. 27:27 Transition to Entrepreneurship: Da Li's journey from IT to entrepreneurship, initial clients, and balancing enthusiasm with experience. 30:00 Conclusion: Focus on entrepreneurship dynamics, blending intuition, data-driven decisions, and community impact. About Our Guest Today Da Li, a seasoned entrepreneur, excels in sustainable home products and marketing services within China. His diverse ventures, including Wellcee, reflect a commitment to ...
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    28 mins
  • 237 | Revitalize Your Consulting Career: Overcoming Burnout with Proven Strategies with Lauren Baptiste

    237 | Revitalize Your Consulting Career: Overcoming Burnout with Proven Strategies with Lauren Baptiste
    Jul 5 2024
    In this engaging episode of The Art of Consulting Podcast, host sits down with Lauren Baptiste, a life coach and consultant specializing in workplace burnout and well-being. With over 13 years of experience in corporate culture, Lauren is on a mission to help professionals, particularly women, transition from exhaustion to empowerment. Her unique approach incorporates elements of Ayurveda, hormonal health, and evidence-based modalities, making her insights particularly compelling for anyone looking to improve their work-life balance. Key Topics Discussed: 00:06 - Introduction: Host introduces Lauren Baptiste, emphasizing her mission to enhance work culture by prioritizing well-being. Lauren’s diverse background includes expertise in Ayurveda, hormonal health, and evidence-based modalities. She has consulted for a wide range of clients including IBM, TD Securities, EY, NFL, Warner Music, Estee Lauder, Standard Chartered Bank, and the United Nations. 01:11 - Understanding Burnout: Lauren delves into the concept of burnout, highlighting its symptoms such as emotional exhaustion and cynicism. She differentiates between the 'soft' and 'hard' sides of burnout, emphasizing the importance of addressing both for overall well-being. Lauren explains how even high performers can fall prey to burnout, making it crucial to identify and address it early. 05:16 - Urgency of Addressing Burnout: The discussion covers the severe consequences of burnout, including extreme cases leading to suicidal thoughts. Lauren emphasizes the need for immediate intervention and sustainable solutions to prevent such outcomes. She shares stories about the drastic impact of unchecked burnout and stresses the importance of professional help and personal strategies to manage it. 11:03 - Balancing Work and Personal Life: The conversation turns to finding a balance between professional achievements and personal enjoyment. Lauren suggests integrating fun into daily routines while fulfilling career goals to maintain a healthy life balance. She talks about her own experiences and how small changes can make a significant difference in one’s outlook and well-being. 18:02 - Empowering Others: Lauren discusses the importance of empowering those around us instead of trying to solve every problem ourselves. She relates this to consulting, where the aim should be to provide tools and knowledge rather than taking on all tasks. Lauren shares practical tips on how to foster empowerment in both personal and professional settings. 23:03 - Authenticity in Different Roles: The conversation touches on authenticity, stressing the importance of being true to our roles in various contexts. Lauren uses the analogy of a UFC fighter to explain how one’s behavior should align with the role they are playing. She elaborates on how being authentic within these roles can lead to more meaningful and effective interactions. 27:27 - Importance of Connection: Lauren highlights the impact of loneliness on burnout, especially for consultants. She suggests intentional connection through small gestures like texting friends or arranging meet-ups to foster meaningful relationships and mitigate burnout. Lauren shares personal anecdotes and scientific studies to emphasize the critical role of social connections in maintaining mental health. 30:00 - Final Thoughts: The episode concludes with Lauren reiterating the need for a balance between being a hero in our professional roles and taking care of our own well-being. She encourages listeners to seek support when needed and to maintain objectivity in their roles. Lauren leaves the audience with actionable advice on how to start making positive changes today. Episode Highlights: 00:06: Introduction of Lauren Baptiste, life coach and consultant with a focus on workplace well-being. 01:11: Exploring burnout symptoms and the urgency of addressing them. 05:16: The necessity of balancing professional goals with personal joy. 11:03: Empowering others and maintaining objectivity in consulting roles. 18:02: Authenticity in different roles for personal and professional growth. 23:03: The detrimental impact of loneliness on burnout. 27:27: Intentional connection as a remedy for loneliness and burnout. 30:00: Final thoughts on balancing heroism and personal well-being in professional roles. About Our Guest Today: Lauren Baptiste is enhancing today’s work culture with a simple strategy: prioritize well-being as the "hardest-working" professionals climb the corporate ladder. As a life coach and consultant on a mission to help women level-up at work and at home, Lauren brings more than 13 years of experience in corporate culture and workplace burnout alongside her knowledge as a practitioner of Ayurveda, hormonal health, and other evidenced-based modalities. This results in clients shifting from exhausted to energetic, cynical to optimistic, and ineffective to empowered. Lauren is also an international speaker on the...
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    53 mins