

Coffee With Convery
Brien Convery
Explore how success isn’t just about climbing the corporate ladder—sometimes it’s about building your own jungle gym. From students to seasoned professionals, this career development podcast is your launchpad for job search strategies, personal branding, leadership growth, and workplace success. Dive into real-life career transitions, resume tips, interview preparation, mentorship, and future-ready skills. Produced by talent, for talent—empowering emerging professionals, entrepreneurs, and executives to thrive in today’s evolving job market. Listen now to level up your career!
Episodes
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Apr 25, 2024 • 40min
From Harmony and Hope to The Maestro of Musical Restoration with Steve Bagmanyan
Welcome to Coffee with Convery ☕️, the podcast where we bring you stories of extraordinary people making a difference in their communities and beyond.
Today, we're diving into an inspiring story of dedication, resilience, and the transformative power of music 🎵.
Our guest today is Steve Bagmanyan, a name that may sound familiar if you've recently seen the Academy Award-winning documentary short, The Last Repair Shop 🛠️.
This powerful film, directed by Ben Proudfoot and Kris Bowers, has brought much-needed attention to the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) Musical Instrument Repair Shop, where Steve and his team work tirelessly to repair and restore thousands of musical instruments for public school students across the city.
But Steve's journey doesn't begin with the film's success. As the shop's supervisor, he has dedicated years to this vital work, providing students with the instruments they need to express themselves through music. From humble beginnings as a piano tuner in 2003, Steve has played a crucial role in keeping the shop alive despite funding challenges and downsizing.
With the recent Oscar win 🏆, life has been a whirlwind for Steve and his team. Donations and support have poured in, allowing them to dream bigger for the future of the repair shop and the students they serve. Join us as we explore Steve's story and the impact he has had on music education and the lives of many in Los Angeles. 🎶

Apr 11, 2024 • 36min
From Women Empowerment and Resiliency to Mentorship with Stephanie Wooden
Welcome to Coffee With Convery! ☕️ Today, we’re honored to have Stephanie Wooden as our guest. Hailing from the vibrant city of Halifax, Nova Scotia, Stephanie is not just a student but a beacon of leadership and inspiration in her community.
🏙 Currently serving as the President of the Dalhousie Women in Business Association, Stephanie’s journey is one of dedication, ambition, and unwavering commitment to empowering women in the business world. 💼
As a fourth-year Bachelor of Commerce Co-op student at Dalhousie University, Stephanie’s academic pursuits are as diverse as her interests. 📚 Majoring in accounting and completing a certificate in disability management, she embodies the spirit of inclusivity and innovation. 🌈 But Stephanie’s journey towards leadership didn’t begin with her current role; it’s a culmination of years of hard work, passion, and relentless drive. 💪
Stephanie’s impact extends far beyond the university campus. 💫 With a stint at KPMG Canada as a Staff Accountant, Audit, and her involvement as a Campus Ambassador, Stephanie is not just shaping her own future but also inspiring those around her to reach for the stars. 🚀
So, grab your favorite cup of coffee ☕️, settle in, and join us as we embark on a journey of discovery with the remarkable Stephanie Wooden.

Apr 4, 2024 • 47min
From Culinary Creations to Broadcasting Brilliance with Glenn Bragonier
Welcome, coffee enthusiasts and conversationalists, to another stimulating episode of “Coffee with Convery”! ☕️ Today, we’re diving into the world of storytelling with a remarkable individual, Glenn Bragonier. 🎙
Glenn Bragonier is a seasoned Content Producer from Toronto. 🌟 With a rich tapestry of experiences ranging from sous chef to assistant distiller, Glenn’s journey has led him to the heart of journalism, where he currently produces captivating content for “Let’s Talk with Dani Stover” on CFIQ 640 Toronto. 📰
Glenn’s tenure at Corus Entertainment speaks volumes about his expertise. 🎧 As the mastermind behind “ON Point,” a syndicated evening show, Glenn orchestrates each episode with finesse, from selecting riveting topics to wrangling esteemed guests. His knack for radio production is unparalleled, evident in his meticulous planning, seamless audio editing, and flawless podcast production. 🎶
Glenn’s dedication to his craft knows no bounds. 🌟 His freelance endeavors and multimedia journalism have taken him on riveting adventures, covering everything from protests to cultural events, leaving an indelible mark on the media landscape. 🌍
With a diploma in Broadcast Journalism from Seneca College and certifications in voice-over work and podcast production, Glenn’s expertise shines through in every project he undertakes. 🎓 His passion for storytelling, coupled with his unparalleled skill set, makes him a force to be reckoned with in the realm of media production. 🎬
So grab your favorite brew, settle in, and join us as we unravel the art of storytelling with the incomparable Glenn Bragonier. 📻

Mar 28, 2024 • 46min
From Navigating HR and Recruitment to Immigrant Success with Syed Ahmed
Welcome, listeners, to another captivating episode of “Coffee with Convery” ☕, where we unravel the intricate tapestry of school, work, and life transitions and transformations 🎓💼🌱. Today, our focus is on the dynamic realms of HR, recruitment, and career insights, and we’re privileged to have a remarkable guest in our midst — Syed Ahmed .
Syed is a graduate of Toronto Metropolitan University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics and Finance 🎓💰.
Syed transcends the conventional recruiter role; he’s the Head of Operations at AroundHI Solutions, orchestrating the deployment of top tech talents globally, from ERP to hyperscaler domains 🚀. With a robust track record spanning over six years, Syed has been the driving force behind connecting high-growth companies and Fortune 500 brands with the perfect blend of technical and non-technical expertise 💼🔗.
What truly distinguishes Syed is his unwavering dedication to giving back. As a fellow Canadian immigrant, his passion lies in aiding newcomers and immigrants in discovering meaningful careers within Canada 🍁. Over the past six years, he’s had the honor of guiding over a thousand individuals on their career journeys, showcasing that the impact of his work transcends the confines of the business world 🌎.
Currently serving as an Entrepreneur In Residence at Ontario Tech University, Syed actively contributes to the Brilliant Catalyst Program, offering valuable advice to the Brilliant Catalyst team, student entrepreneurs, and faculty members seeking to propel their ideas forward 💡. From judging pitch competitions to assisting new entrepreneurs with sales, HR, and product management, Syed is deeply engaged in nurturing the next generation of talent 👩🎓👨🎓.
Join us now as we dive into the incredible journey of Syed Ahmed, exploring his experiences, gaining insights, and uncovering the valuable lessons he’s accumulated along the way 🎙️🚀.

Mar 21, 2024 • 53min
From Storytelling and Making Waves to Investigative News with Kevin O'Keefe
🎙️ Welcome to another episode of Coffee with Convery, where we bring you conversations with remarkable individuals shaping the landscape of work and impacting people through storytelling. ☕🗣️
Today, we are thrilled to have Kevin O’Keefe on the show, a seasoned veteran in the world of current affairs television, documentaries, and digital media. 🌐📺
With a career spanning over 25 years, Kevin has left an indelible mark on the industry. Currently serving as a Producer at CTV’s acclaimed investigative series W5, Kevin’s work delves into crucial issues and events, showcasing his dedication to uncovering compelling stories. 🕵️♂️🎥
Beyond his extensive professional achievements, Kevin is a lifelong learner. Armed with a Bachelor of Applied Arts in Radio and Television from Toronto Metropolitan University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of King’s College, he continues to hone his craft. His commitment to excellence extends even to his personal pursuits, having completed the improvisation program at Second City Training Centre and a Japanese language course at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre. 🎓🌟
#CoffeeWithConvery #CareerAdventure #ContinuousLearning #InspirationalTalks #LifeExperiences

Mar 14, 2024 • 41min
From Disrupting Comfort Zones to Athletics and Hiring Innovation with Mike Thomson
🌟✨ Welcome, coffee enthusiasts and career aficionados, to another enriching episode of "Coffee with Convery"! ☕🚀
🎉 Today, we have a special guest, Mike Thomson, who's not only redefining the hiring landscape but has a unique journey that intertwines entrepreneurship, athletics, and the invaluable lessons learned from embracing discomfort. ⚽🏒
🏒 From the hockey rinks teaching teamwork and resilience to the competitive floors of CrossFit, Mike has always sought to confront and embrace discomfort willingly. His journey as an entrepreneur, however, unveiled a profound realization – success isn't just about innovation and business acumen; it's a continuous process of facing and navigating uncomfortable situations. 💡🔄
🚀 Mike’s the force behind Spark Recruiting, a company dedicated to revolutionizing the hiring process with a humanizing twist. If you've ever struggled with crafting job descriptions that truly resonate with your ideal candidates or found yourself losing potential hires in the final stages of the hiring process, Mike is here to shed some light on how to turn the tide. 🔍💼
🔥 Now, let's delve into our conversation with Mike Thomson and keep in mind that the path to success is paved with moments of discomfort, challenges, and internal growth. 🌈🌱
#CoffeeTalks #InnovationJourney

Mar 7, 2024 • 46min
From Farming and Football to the Barber's Chair with Chadwin Bartley
🎙️☕ Welcome to Coffee with Convery, the podcast where we dive deep into the lives and stories of individuals making a meaningful impact in their careers, their communities, and beyond. ☕🎙️
Today, we have a remarkable guest with us, someone whose journey is as diverse as it is inspiring.
Joining is Chadwin Bartley, a multifaceted individual hailing from the Greater Toronto Area, Canada. 🍁 Chadwin wears many hats – he's the Founder of Bartley Skills Development, the brains behind ChairLinks, a seasoned Athlete Brand & Partnership Coordinator, and a skilled Barber ✂️.
His philosophy is simple but powerful: "Everything Matters," and every life experience plays a crucial role in shaping your purpose and mission in business.
As the Founder and CEO of ChairLinks, Chadwin brings together the worlds of beauty professionals and high-profile clients, including athletes, influencers, corporations, and charities including renowned organizations such as Canada Basketball, Toronto Argonauts, Live Nation, Jays Care Foundation, Peel District School Board, and more. 🌐
Get ready for a conversation filled with insights, inspiration, and the incredible journey of Chadwin Bartley! ☕🎤
#CoffeeWithConvery #InspirationUnleashed #ChadwinBartley #EntrepreneurialJourney

Feb 29, 2024 • 40min
From the Lens of Career Exploration to Photography with Jonah Ferguson
🎙️ On today’s episode of Coffee with Convery, I have the pleasure of hosting a dynamic individual whose strategic mindset, creative prowess, and passion for connecting people have reshaped the landscape of student and employer engagement. Allow me to introduce Jonah Ferguson, the Coordinator of Employer and Student Engagement at Vancouver Island University in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada. 🌍🎓
Jonah brings a unique blend of skills and experiences to the table. Armed with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing, Jonah’s journey from a marketing student to a seasoned professional has been nothing short of inspiring. 🚀📈
Jonah’s impact extends beyond the campus, as demonstrated by his successful organization of large-scale in-person career fairs, showcasing over 60 employers and attended by 650 students and alumni. Under his coordination, the Career Studio has become a hub for career exploration and professional growth, equipping students and alumni with the tools and opportunities needed to navigate the competitive job market successfully. 🌐💼
In addition to his professional achievements, Jonah’s multifaceted background includes studying Political Science and maintaining a deep interest in current affairs, technology, business, socioeconomic issues, and human motivations and psychology. He is always ready to engage in conversations on any topic, showcasing his well-rounded and curious nature. 🌐💬
We’re in for a treat as we uncover the story behind Jonah Ferguson’s career and his dedication to empowering the next generation of professionals. ☕🚀🌟
#CoffeeWithConvery #CareerAdventure #ContinuousLearning #InspirationalTalks #LifeExperiences

Feb 22, 2024 • 1h 7min
From Diverse Paths to Success with ADaPT
🎙️ Welcome, listeners, to a special edition of Coffee With Convery ☕, where we delve into skill development and job seeking in today’s world of work! 🌍
Today’s podcast is sponsored by the Diversity Institute 🌟. They're all about action-oriented research and finding innovative solutions to societal challenges. 💡 With a focus on bridging skills gaps, promoting diversity in leadership, and driving inclusive innovation, they're at the forefront of shaping the future of work. 🚀
But wait, there's more! We have three fantastic guests joining us today, each with a unique perspective on navigating the professional landscape. 🌟 They've all experienced the game-changing ADaPT (Advanced Digital and Professional Training) Program by the Diversity Institute. 🎓 Let's meet them:
🎙️ Ricky Visitacion: A skilled Sales Development Representative from Vaughan, who's graduated from the ADaPT Program is now working as a Sales Development Representative at Resolver. 💼
🎙️ Paulo Petitinga: A seasoned Communication Strategist from Toronto, currently enrolled in the ADaPT4Success Program. 📚
🎙️ Sarah Oguche: An accomplished Application Support Engineer from Kitchener, a graduate of the ADaPT for Black Youth Program, dedicated to empowering Black youth with the skills they need to succeed and is now working as a
Support Agent Client Services for the Service Management Group. 🚀
Excited yet? Tune in as we explore their journeys and learn more about these transformative programs! 🌟
For more information, visit Diversity Institute’s Training and Work Placement Site. 💻 [Link: https://www.torontomu.ca/diversity/research/future-skills/trainingandworkplacement/]

Feb 15, 2024 • 45min
From Intersectional Neurodiversity to Overcoming Barriers with Chris Hooten
🎙️ Welcome, Coffee With Convery listeners! In today’s episode, we are joined by a remarkable individual, Chris Hooten, who is on a mission to reshape the narrative surrounding neurodiversity and foster inclusivity in teams, organizations, and communities.
🌟 Chris is a passionate advocate working tirelessly to change the way we think and talk about neurodiversity. With a Master’s in Education and Human Development, Chris has partnered with renowned organizations such as the Space Needle, Chihuly Garden & Glass, Levy Restaurants, POCIS Seattle, and Bastyr University to build cultures that are not only equitable but also accessible.
🔊 As a nationally recognized speaker, writer, advocate, and coach, Chris aims to help organizations welcome, promote, and address challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, especially those from the Global Majority, women, and LGBTQ+ communities. With a focus on Intersectional Neurodiversity, Chris provides comprehensive cultural assessments, engaging keynotes and workshops, accessibility-forward coaching, and customized solutions to bridge gaps and promote inclusivity.
🚀 Today, we dive deep into Chris’s experiences, expertise, and the impact they’ve had on organizations striving for equitable and accessible cultures.
So grab your favorite cup of coffee, settle in, and join us in this enlightening conversation with Chris Hooten on the Coffee With Convery podcast! ☕✨
#CoffeeWithConvery #CareerAdventure #ContinuousLearning #InspirationalTalks #LifeExperiences


