Ottawa Business Matters

In this episode of Ottawa Business Matters, host Sam Laprade discusses key developments in the Ottawa business community with leaders from the Ottawa Board of Trade, Invest Ottawa, and the city government. Sueling Ching, President and CEO of the Ottawa Board of Trade, highlights the recent 167th Annual General Meeting and their initiatives to invigorate the local economy. City Manager Wendy Stephanson shares her vision for the city's development and the importance of women in leadership roles. Brendan McGuinty, Chair of the Ottawa Board of Trade, emphasizes the critical need for collaboration among various sectors to foster a balanced and thriving economy. New 40 Under 40 awardee, Eric Saumure from Zenbooks, discusses the challenges and milestones of his entrepreneurial journey and the importance of community involvement. The episode underscores the dynamic efforts shaping Ottawa's future and the essential role of local businesses and leaders in this ongoing transformation.
00:00 Introduction to Ottawa Business Matters
00:48 Highlights from the 167th Annual General Meeting
03:37 Celebrating Young Leaders: 40 Under 40 Event
05:18 Sonya Shorey: New President of Invest Ottawa
06:54 The Value of Ottawa Board of Trade Membership
09:33 Collaborative Efforts for Ottawa's Economic Growth
13:04 Interview with Wendy Stephanson: Ottawa's First Female City Manager
14:42 The Importance of Business in Ottawa
16:25 Challenges and Opportunities in Ottawa
22:40 Reflecting on Ottawa's Growth and Future
25:45 Reflecting on the AGM and Board of Trade's Evolution
28:28 Challenges and Opportunities for Ottawa's Growth
29:38 Addressing the Downtown Core and Hybrid Work Model
33:22 Personal Reflections and Community Involvement
37:52 Interview with Eric Saumure: 40 Under 40 Awardee
39:42 Zenbooks: Modernizing the Accounting Experience
42:43 Balancing Business and Personal Life
45:44 Advocacy and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
50:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Read the full transcript here

In this episode of Ottawa Business Matters, Sam Laprade interviews Sueling Ching, President and CEO of the Ottawa Board of Trade. They discuss the highlights of the 167th Annual General Meeting, the Board's recent activities, and the positive business atmosphere as the city emerges from the pandemic. The episode also explores the successes of the 40 Under 40 event and the enthusiasm surrounding Sonia Shorey's appointment as President of Invest Ottawa. Additionally, Ching emphasizes the importance of policy, advocacy, and collaboration with government officials to support business growth and prosperity in Ottawa.

In this episode, Sam interviews Wendy Stephanson, the first female city manager of Ottawa, about her experiences and initiatives since her appointment. Wendy shares insights into female leadership, the importance of collaboration with the Ottawa Board of Trade, and efforts to boost the city's economy, housing, and community well-being. They discuss the city's growing vibrancy, the challenges it faces, and the transformative projects in place to shape Ottawa's future. Wendy also reflects on her unplanned career journey and the significant role her team plays in making the city thrive.

In this episode, Sam hosts Brendan McGuinty, the chair of the Ottawa Board of Trade. McGuinty shares insights into the goals and achievements of the board, highlighting its commitment to balanced economic growth and the importance of collaboration with various sectors. The conversation covers the diverse and inclusive nature of Ottawa's business community, the challenges posed by the post-pandemic environment, and the strategies for revitalizing the downtown core amid changing work patterns. McGuinty also reflects on his personal passion for public policy and community involvement, encouraging others to get involved and contribute to the city's ongoing development.

Eric Saumure from Zenbooks, who was recently honored as a 40 Under 40 awardee joins Sam Laprade to get his reaction to receiving the award, the camaraderie with other winners, and how Zenbooks stands out by utilizing modern technology to simplify accounting for small business owners and nonprofit leaders. He shares his journey of balancing business success with personal challenges, including his recent achievements and community involvement. Eric provides valuable insights into the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, balancing personal life, and taking bold steps like advocating for tax deadline extensions. He offers practical advice for budding entrepreneurs and individuals navigating the complexities of taxes and accounting.