

Collisions YYC
Tyler Chisholm
Tired of the same old news cycle? Get informed on what’s happening in businesses in Calgary, Alberta and beyond with Collisions YYC.
Tyler Chisholm hosts Alberta’s best and brightest minds who are shaping the very landscape of our province with their work in fields like Technology, FinTech, Energy, Healthcare, Education, AI, and more. Tyler’s inherent curiosity and exploratory style fuel candid conversations with the people who are driving change in our city, our province and the world.
Connect with us on social media:
https://www.instagram.com/collisionsyyc
Tyler Chisholm hosts Alberta’s best and brightest minds who are shaping the very landscape of our province with their work in fields like Technology, FinTech, Energy, Healthcare, Education, AI, and more. Tyler’s inherent curiosity and exploratory style fuel candid conversations with the people who are driving change in our city, our province and the world.
Connect with us on social media:
https://www.instagram.com/collisionsyyc
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 3, 2025 • 46min
Derek Crager, Practical AI: How to Keep Your Best Employee Forever
In this episode of Collisions YYC, Tyler is joined by Derek Crager, Founder of Practical AI, the mind behind Practical AI and creator of Pocket Mentor, an AI-powered voice companion that delivers scalable, personalized coaching for real-world leadership challenges. Drawing from his deep experience in the tech space, including his time at Amazon, Derek shares how simplicity, empathy, and human-centred design inform his approach to AI development. The conversation explores how Pocket Mentor bridges the gap between formal training and everyday problem-solving, offering just-in-time guidance in moments that matter from onboarding and performance feedback to high-stakes leadership decisions. Derek also discusses the ethical responsibilities of building AI tools, especially those that influence how people lead, manage, and grow in their roles. If you're curious about how AI can enhance human capability in the workplace, this episode is a must-listen.In this episode:How Pocket Mentor turns everyday work into scalable, accessible trainingWhy the AI panic (job losses, sentience fears) needs a serious reality checkWhat Amazon taught Derek about simplicity and user experienceWhy neurodiversity and AI might be the perfect matchHow storytelling and voice interfaces are shaping the next era of learningTop 3 Wisdom Bombs"We use AI not to think for the person, but to think with the person, just like a true mentor would.” - Derek Crager“The best interface a human has is another human. And that can be a true human or it could be AI with the voice of a human acting as a proxy.” - Derek Crager“AI is a tool and we can use it, you know, for humanity or against humanity...we are at a dividing point right now. We are at a fork in the road.” - Derek CragerThis episode is brought to you by clearmotive marketing. When it comes to marketing that truly matters to your business, clearmotive is your go-to partner. With a proven track record of more than 15 years, they understand what makes your business tick. Learn more at https://www.clearmotive.ca and discover how clearmotive can help your marketing thrive.We’re on social media! Follow us for episodes you might have missed and key insights on Western Canada directly on your feeds.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collisionsyycLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/collisions-yycYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@collisionsyycWebsite: https://www.collisionsyyc.comThank you for tuning into Collisions YYC!Remember to subscribe and follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.If you loved the episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share the show with your friends! These things really help us reach more potential fans and share everything that’s amazing about Western Canada.We sincerely appreciate your support of our local podcast.Host links:Tyler’s website: https://www.tylerchisholm.comTyler’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerchisholmGuest links:Derek Crager’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amazonleadershipPractical AI’s Website: https://www.practicalai.appPractical AI’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/practical-ai-for-businessCollisions YYC is a Tyler Chisholm original production // Brought to you by clearmotive marketing

Nov 25, 2025 • 1h 3min
Paul Moore, Hitchhiking Through Management: Moore’s 10 Laws for Successful Leadership
In this episode of Collisions YYC, Tyler is joined by Paul Moore, longtime Calgary executive and author of Hitchhiking Through Management: Moore’s 10 Laws for Successful Leadership. Together, they explore the often-overlooked realities of stepping into management roles, from the emotional toll to the strategic responsibility of leading teams.In this episode:Why trust is the foundation of any leadership modelThe difference between positional power and earned influenceWhat to do when you inherit underperformersNavigating the awkward first months as a new managerWhy authenticity and hard conversations matter more than charismaThe value of mentorship and self-awareness in leadership developmentThis episode is brought to you by clearmotive marketing. When it comes to marketing that truly matters to your business, clearmotive is your go-to partner. With a proven track record of more than 15 years, they understand what makes your business tick. Learn more at https://www.clearmotive.ca and discover how clearmotive can help your marketing thrive.We’re on social media! Follow us for episodes you might have missed and key insights on Western Canada directly on your feeds.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collisionsyycLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/collisions-yycYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@collisionsyycWebsite: https://www.collisionsyyc.comThank you for tuning into Collisions YYC!Remember to subscribe and follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.If you loved the episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share the show with your friends! These things really help us reach more potential fans and share everything that’s amazing about Western Canada.We sincerely appreciate your support of our local podcast.Host links:Tyler’s website: https://www.tylerchisholm.comTyler’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerchisholmGuest links:Paul Moore’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulmoore100Collisions YYC is a Tyler Chisholm original production // Brought to you by clearmotive marketing

Nov 20, 2025 • 47min
Andrew Bullied, The Annex Story: Passion, Practice, and Bold Flavours
In this episode of Collisions YYC, Tyler Chisholm welcomes Andrew Bullied, Co-Founder and Sales Director of Annex Ale Project, for an inside look at how one of Calgary’s most creative breweries became a beverage company to watch. While known for their beer, it’s their soda line—playful, nostalgic, and totally unique—that’s stealing the spotlight. Andrew explores how Annex’s non-alcoholic sodas went from taproom curiosity to a core business line, appealing to everyone from sober adults to soda-loving kids. They talk brand flexibility, beverage innovation, local sourcing, and how embracing fun can be a serious strategy. If you're interested in entrepreneurship, product expansion, or the future of craft beverage, this episode fizzes with insight.In this episode:How Annex Ale Project has evolved its brand without becoming too precious about itThe challenges and rewards of crafting non-alcoholic beer that actually tastes goodWhy today’s consumers crave novelty, creativity, and “weird” in their beerBalancing local identity with broader market ambitionsThoughts on taproom culture, pricing pressures, and pandemic pivotsWhat it means to stay independent and inventive in a competitive craft beer landscapeTop 3 Wisdom Bombs“The beer consumer that wants new and exciting bold flavours and they want to be challenged with the things.” - Andrew Bullied“One thing that we've really focused on over the last years is not being too precious about a brand.” - Andrew Bullied“The giant breweries like Asahi and Heineken and Guinness, they're driving the non-alcoholic beer market and they've invested in technology to make sure it actually tastes pretty good.” - Andrew BulliedThis episode is brought to you by clearmotive marketing. When it comes to marketing that truly matters to your business, clearmotive is your go-to partner. With a proven track record of more than 15 years, they understand what makes your business tick. Learn more at https://www.clearmotive.ca and discover how clearmotive can help your marketing thrive.We’re on social media! Follow us for episodes you might have missed and key insights on Western Canada directly on your feeds.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collisionsyycLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/collisions-yycYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@collisionsyycWebsite: https://www.collisionsyyc.comThank you for tuning into Collisions YYC!Remember to subscribe and follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.If you loved the episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share the show with your friends! These things really help us reach more potential fans and share everything that’s amazing about Western Canada.We sincerely appreciate your support of our local podcast.Host links:Tyler’s website: https://www.tylerchisholm.comTyler’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerchisholmGuest links:Andrew Bullied’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-bullied-031b33262Annex Ale Project’s Website: https://www.annexales.comAnnex Ale Project’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/annex-ale-project/Annex Ale Project’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/annexalesCollisions YYC is a Tyler Chisholm original production // Brought to you by clearmotive marketing

Nov 18, 2025 • 31min
Elaine Wilson, Caring for Calgarians
In this episode of Collisions YYC, Tyler chats with Elaine Wilson, CEO of CUPS Calgary AB, for a timely conversation on Red Express—a holiday initiative that brings joy, dignity, and relief to Calgary families facing real economic hardship. Red Express is more than a gift program, it’s an extension of CUPS' broader mission: to walk alongside Calgarians navigating trauma, poverty, and health challenges, and to provide long-term, integrated care that helps families build brighter futures. Elaine brings grounded insight into what’s happening on Calgary’s frontlines—from food insecurity to housing gaps—and shares how partnerships like Red Express reflect what’s possible when community steps up.If you would like to support Red Express, please visit: https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/fundraising/2025-red-expressIn this episode:The story and evolution of Red ExpressCUPS’ trauma-informed, whole-family approach to careCalgary’s growing affordability crisis—from food to housingWhy holiday giving is about dignity, not charityThe value of community partnership and sustainable supportTop 3 Wisdom Bombs“We are essential parts of the social fabric of our communities.” - Elaine Wilson“Calgary would look really different if nonprofits didn’t exist.” - Elaine Wilson“I think something Cups does well in all areas of our programming is that outreach component. We go out and we build connection, we build relationship, we show up for people and we work to really empower them.” - Elaine WilsonThis episode is brought to you by clearmotive marketing. When it comes to marketing that truly matters to your business, clearmotive is your go-to partner. With a proven track record of more than 15 years, they understand what makes your business tick. Learn more at https://www.clearmotive.ca and discover how clearmotive can help your marketing thrive.We’re on social media! Follow us for episodes you might have missed and key insights on Western Canada directly on your feeds.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collisionsyycLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/collisions-yycYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@collisionsyycWebsite: https://www.collisionsyyc.comThank you for tuning into Collisions YYC!Remember to subscribe and follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.If you loved the episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share the show with your friends! These things really help us reach more potential fans and share everything that’s amazing about Western Canada.We sincerely appreciate your support of our local podcast.Host links:Tyler’s website: https://www.tylerchisholm.comTyler’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerchisholmGuest links:Elaine Wilson’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elaine-wilson-3307335aCUPS Calgary AB’s Website: https://www.cupscalgary.comCUPS Calgary AB’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cups-health-and-education-centresCUPS Calgary AB’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/CUPSCalgaryABCUPS Calgary AB’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CUPSCalgaryAB/CUPS Calgary AB’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/CUPSCalgary1989Collisions YYC is a Tyler Chisholm original production // Brought to you by clearmotive marketing

Nov 12, 2025 • 49min
Brian McClennon, The Future of Employee Savings in Canada
Tyler Chisholm talks with Brian McLennan, CEO and co-founder of Link—a Calgary-based fintech platform revolutionizing how workplace savings plans are built and delivered across Canada. Rather than compete with financial institutions, Link enables them. The company provides a white-label infrastructure for banks, credit unions, and employers to deliver modern, digital-first retirement savings plans like RRSPs, TFSAs, and pensions. Brian shares how Link is helping close the access gap for the more than 50% of working Canadians who currently have no workplace savings plan—and why that's not just a market opportunity, but a national challenge. They discuss the shift from legacy administration models to flexible, advisor-friendly platforms; the ROI of employer matching; and how even the smallest businesses can now offer big-company benefits. Brian also unpacks Link’s early pivots, the power of partnerships, and why solving the infrastructure problem is the key to lasting impact.In this episode:What Link is and how it works behind the scenesWhy financial infrastructure is often the invisible unlockThe benefits of employer matching and behavioral nudgesDigital advice, fund selection, and user experienceRetirement savings access across Canada’s workforceHow Link balances tech scale with advisory partnershipsCalgary’s emerging role in Canada’s fintech ecosystemThe global future of workplace financial benefitsTop 3 Wisdom Bombs“Ultimately what we're trying to accomplish is afford employees the ability to have a *dignified retirement*—to retire on their own terms.” - Brian McClennon“Energy stocks can make 25-year-old millionaires—or cut portfolios in half. Diversify.” - Brian McClennon“Australia’s superannuation system shows what happens when saving is mandated—assets in the trillions, people ready for retirement.” - Brian McClennonThis episode is brought to you by clearmotive marketing. When it comes to marketing that truly matters to your business, clearmotive is your go-to partner. With a proven track record of more than 15 years, they understand what makes your business tick. Learn more at https://www.clearmotive.ca and discover how clearmotive can help your marketing thrive.We’re on social media! Follow us for episodes you might have missed and key insights on Western Canada directly on your feeds.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collisionsyycLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/collisions-yycYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@collisionsyycWebsite: https://www.collisionsyyc.comThank you for tuning into Collisions YYC!Remember to subscribe and follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.If you loved the episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share the show with your friends! These things really help us reach more potential fans and share everything that’s amazing about Western Canada.We sincerely appreciate your support of our local podcast.Host links:Tyler’s website: https://www.tylerchisholm.comTyler’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerchisholmGuest links:Brian McClennon’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmcclennonLink Investment Management’s Website: https://www.link-plans.comLink Investment Management’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/link-investment-managementCollisions YYC is a Tyler Chisholm original production // Brought to you by clearmotive marketing

Nov 5, 2025 • 24min
Josh Rainbow, Future Summit 2025: Innovation Unleashed
In this episode of Collisions YYC, Tyler chats with Josh Rainbow, founder of Future Summit, a uniquely curated conference that’s fast becoming Canada’s premiere platform for innovation. Held annually in Calgary, Future Summit brings together leaders from AI, energy, aerospace, robotics, and more to connect, collaborate, and co-create the future. Josh walks us through the behind-the-scenes mechanics of producing a large-scale event with intention—sharing how curated dinners, experiential salons, and smart sponsor management help foster real relationships. With over 90 speakers, cross-sector partnerships, and a clear Calgary-first ethos, Future Summit is more than a conference. It’s a platform for change.In this episode:* How curated collisions replace keynotes and pitch decks* The importance of building cross-sector, cross-generational networks* Balancing sponsor ROI with authentic engagement* Creating tangible next steps for attendees* Calgary’s moment as a national and global innovation hub* Why community and humility are core to building impactful eventsTop 3 Wisdom Bombs“If you’re not building something for Calgary, in Calgary, with Calgary—why should anyone else care?” - Josh Rainbow“Most people underestimate the power of a 10-person dinner to change the trajectory of a company.” - Josh Rainbow“It’s not about having a tech event. It’s about creating the room where the right people get to meet at the right time.” - Josh RainbowThis episode is brought to you by clearmotive marketing. When it comes to marketing that truly matters to your business, clearmotive is your go-to partner. With a proven track record of more than 15 years, they understand what makes your business tick. Learn more at https://www.clearmotive.ca and discover how clearmotive can help your marketing thrive.We’re on social media! Follow us for episodes you might have missed and key insights on Western Canada directly on your feeds.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collisionsyycLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/collisions-yycYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@collisionsyycWebsite: https://www.collisionsyyc.comThank you for tuning into Collisions YYC!Remember to subscribe and follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.If you loved the episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share the show with your friends! These things really help us reach more potential fans and share everything that’s amazing about Western Canada.We sincerely appreciate your support of our local podcast.Host links:Tyler’s website: https://www.tylerchisholm.comTyler’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerchisholmGuest links:Josh Rainbow’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuarainbowFuture Summit’s Website: https://www.futuresummit.aiFuture Summit’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/futurexsummit/Future Summit’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/futurexsummitFuture Summit’s X: https://www.x.com/futurexsummitCollisions YYC is a Tyler Chisholm original production // Brought to you by clearmotive marketing

Oct 30, 2025 • 1h 11min
Jeff Couillard and Pablo Romero, The New Dynamics of Power in Leadership
How do you build a team where leadership is shared, not hoarded? Where power is a tool for progress—not control? In this deeply insightful episode, Tyler Chisholm speaks with Jeff Couillard and Pablo Romero, co-CEOs of The Ally Co, about the future of leadership, the hidden cost of hierarchy, and why real change starts with self-awareness. As consultants working with everyone from fast-scaling startups to major global energy firms, Jeff and Pablo share how they help organizations move from performative leadership to purposeful transformation. Together, they explore the concept of “leaderful teams”—environments where trust, dialogue, and distributed power become strategic advantages. They dig into how leaders can build psychological safety, address unconscious bias, and break cycles of “artificial harmony” that often undermine growth. The conversation also touches on the Ally Co’s own co-CEO structure, revealing how it models the accountability and allyship they teach. Whether you're managing people, designing culture, or leading change in a complex system, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes leadership is a shared responsibility—not a solo act.In this episode:What it means to create “leaderful teams”Why power isn’t inherently good or bad—and how to use it more consciouslyThe importance of psychological safety in organizational performanceThe common gap between good intentions and real-world impactHow leaders in technical industries can unlearn old paradigms The value of co-leadership and distributed decision-makingTop 3 Wisdom Bombs“Leadership isn’t what you do to people—it’s what you do with them.” - Pablo Romero“If we’ve done our job right, things might feel worse before they feel better. That’s how you know you’re being honest.” - Pablo Romero“Power is just the ability to affect change. It’s neutral. What matters is how you use it.” - Jeff CouillardThis episode is brought to you by clearmotive marketing. When it comes to marketing that truly matters to your business, clearmotive is your go-to partner. With a proven track record of more than 15 years, they understand what makes your business tick. Learn more at https://www.clearmotive.ca and discover how clearmotive can help your marketing thrive.We’re on social media! Follow us for episodes you might have missed and key insights on Western Canada directly on your feeds.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collisionsyycLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/collisions-yycYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@collisionsyycWebsite: https://www.collisionsyyc.comThank you for tuning into Collisions YYC!Remember to subscribe and follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.If you loved the episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share the show with your friends! These things really help us reach more potential fans and share everything that’s amazing about Western Canada.We sincerely appreciate your support of our local podcast.Host links:Tyler’s website: https://www.tylerchisholm.comTyler’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerchisholmGuest links:Jeff Couillard’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffcouillardPablo Romero’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pabloaromeroThe Ally Co. Website: https://theallyco.worldThe Ally Co. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ally-coThe Ally Co. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxlsnf6GuT13_duViZ5UlpACollisions YYC is a Tyler Chisholm original production // Brought to you by clearmotive marketing

Oct 28, 2025 • 54min
Rob Ohlson, Inside Calgary’s Luxury Real Estate
In this episode of Collisions YYC, Tyler is joined by Rob Ohlson to explore the real-world challenges and opportunities of building custom homes in Calgary. As president of Maillot Homes, Rob has helped evolve a heritage brand into a forward-looking company rooted in sustainable building, strategic land investment, and deep client relationships.In this episode:Why land ownership matters in Calgary’s inner cityThe balance of luxury, efficiency, and simplicity in designGeothermal systems, solar panels, and green building economicsWhy builder transparency is essential for trustHousing affordability, rezoning debates, and urban densityHow ego, timing, and trade capacity influence project successTop 3 Wisdom Bombs"Every client brings a different vision—and it’s our job to interpret it, not impose our own.""You can’t manage what you don’t measure. That’s why we brought project management software into our builds.""Politics should support housing, not complicate it. We need fewer barriers and more collaboration."This episode is brought to you by clearmotive marketing. When it comes to marketing that truly matters to your business, clearmotive is your go-to partner. With a proven track record of more than 15 years, they understand what makes your business tick. Learn more at https://www.clearmotive.ca and discover how clearmotive can help your marketing thrive.We’re on social media! Follow us for episodes you might have missed and key insights on Western Canada directly on your feeds.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collisionsyycLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/collisions-yycYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@collisionsyycWebsite: https://www.collisionsyyc.comThank you for tuning into Collisions YYC!Remember to subscribe and follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.If you loved the episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share the show with your friends! These things really help us reach more potential fans and share everything that’s amazing about Western Canada.We sincerely appreciate your support of our local podcast.Tyler’s website: https://www.tylerchisholm.comTyler’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerchisholmGuest links:Rob Ohlson’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-ohlson-37082562/Maillot Homes’ Website: https://www.maillothomes.comMaillot Homes’ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maillot_homesMaillot Homes’ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maillothomesCollisions YYC is a Tyler Chisholm original production // Brought to you by clearmotive marketing

Oct 23, 2025 • 57min
Barry Po, Driving Real AI Business Value
In this candid and insightful episode, Tyler Chisholm is joined by Barry Po—CEO of Brilliant and a veteran of mCloud and HSBC—to talk about what AI really means for business leaders today. Far from the hype, Barry focuses on clarity, strategy, and the courage it takes to lead meaningful change. Together, they explore why organizations need to rethink complexity, stop chasing “AI theater,” and instead focus on embedding innovation into the fabric of their operations. For leaders navigating the early or messy middle stages of AI adoption, this episode is full of practical insights—from building data readiness to avoiding the trap of pilot purgatory. Whether you're leading a legacy company or scaling something new, Barry makes the case for bold, human-centered transformation—and explains why the most innovative move might be simply asking better questions.In this episode:What AI *really* means for business operationsThe myth of “newness” and the long road to today’s AI momentWhy adding AI to a broken process just creates a faster broken processReducing organizational complexity as a strategic imperativeThe importance of data readiness and avoiding “pilot purgatory”AI theater vs. real transformationWhat leaders need to ask before bringing AI into their businessThe role of courage, skepticism, and bias in successful innovationWestern Canada’s unique opportunity to lead in industrial AIWisdom Bombs:“If you take a broken process and you add AI to it, the best you’re going to do is make it slightly faster.” - Barry Po“I like to talk about AI like it’s a fabric inside an organization. It’s woven into your business.” - Barry Po“Real innovation doesn’t happen incrementally. It happens when you take the leap.” - Barry PoThis episode is brought to you by clearmotive marketing. When it comes to marketing that truly matters to your business, clearmotive is your go-to partner. With a proven track record of more than 15 years, they understand what makes your business tick. Learn more at https://www.clearmotive.ca and discover how clearmotive can help your marketing thrive.We’re on social media! Follow us for episodes you might have missed and key insights on Western Canada directly on your feeds.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collisionsyycLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/collisions-yycYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@collisionsyycWebsite: https://www.collisionsyyc.comThank you for tuning into Collisions YYC!Remember to subscribe and follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.If you loved the episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share the show with your friends! These things really help us reach more potential fans and share everything that’s amazing about Western Canada.We sincerely appreciate your support of our local podcast.Host links:Tyler’s website: https://www.tylerchisholm.comTyler’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerchisholmGuest links:Barry Po’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barry-poBrilliant’s Website: https://www.brilliantdigi.comBrilliant’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brilliantdigi/Collisions YYC is a Tyler Chisholm original production // Brought to you by clearmotive marketing

Oct 21, 2025 • 1h 2min
Anthony De Almeida, Beyond Banks: Financing Business Growth
If you’re a business owner struggling to secure the capital you need to grow, this episode is for you. Tyler Chisholm sits down with Anthony D. Almeida, CEO of The Unbankers, to talk about what it *really* means to be finance-ready—and why so many small and mid-sized businesses are left behind by traditional banks. With over 25 years in the trenches of corporate finance, Anthony shares how his team steps in to support businesses seeking loans under $10M—especially those scaling fast, acquiring competitors, or managing complex turnarounds. From the critical role of fractional CFOs to building forward-looking financial models, Anthony offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at what lenders actually want—and how to plan for capital before you need it. For leaders tired of hearing “no” from the banks, this episode introduces an alternative path built on relationships, strategy, and deep operational insight.In this episode:What it means to be an Unbanker and why that mattersWhy traditional banks are stepping away from sub-$10M dealsHow The Unbankers fill the financing gap with hands-on, operationally-savvy supportInsights into asset-based vs. cash-flow lendingThe increasing role of fractional CFOsWhen and how to start preparing for financingLending market comparisons between Canada and the U.S.What industries Anthony loves to work with—and which ones they steer clear ofWisdom bombs:"You're not as finance-ready as you think you are." – Anthony D. Almeida"Noah built the ark before it rained. That's how you need to think about your business finance strategy." – Anthony D. Almeida"Lenders will look at your cash flow as an asset. If it's strong and predictable, that tells a compelling story." – Anthony D. Almeida"Business plans aren't just for the lenders; they're how you articulate your vision to yourself." – Anthony D. AlmeidaFor the Extra Curious:Learn more about The Unbankers: https://www.unbankers.comExplore the rise of fractional CFOs: https://www.cfoshare.orgGuide to being finance-ready: BDC's Business Loan Checklist: https://www.bdc.ca/en/articles-tools/money-finance/get-financing/business-loan-application-checklistOverview of cash flow-based lending: Investopedia on Cash Flow Lending: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/cash-flow-lending.aspUnderstanding asset-based lending: NerdWallet Guide: https://www.nerdwallet.com/ca/business/asset-based-lendingThis episode is brought to you by clearmotive marketing. When it comes to marketing that truly matters to your business, clearmotive is your go-to partner. With a proven track record of more than 15 years, they understand what makes your business tick. Learn more at https://www.clearmotive.ca and discover how clearmotive can help your marketing thrive.We’re on social media! Follow us for episodes you might have missed and key insights on Western Canada directly on your feeds.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collisionsyycLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/collisions-yycYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@collisionsyycWebsite: https://www.collisionsyyc.comThank you for tuning into Collisions YYC!Remember to subscribe and follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts so you never miss an episode.If you loved the episode, please leave us a 5-star review and share the show with your friends! These things really help us reach more potential fans and share everything that’s amazing about Western Canada.We sincerely appreciate your support of our local podcast.Host links:Tyler’s website: https://www.tylerchisholm.comTyler’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerchisholmGuest links:Anthony De Almeida’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-de-almeida-726123aThe UnBankers’ Website: https://www.theunbankers.comThe UnBankers’ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theunbankers/The UnBankers’ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theunbankers/Collisions YYC is a Tyler Chisholm original production // Brought to you by clearmotive marketing


