In today's episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris talks to Steve MacDonald, one of our alumni and the owner of Patty Mac, a thriving business specializing in high-end custom home builds and property maintenance in the Muskoka area of Ontario.

Steve, who started his business about 15 years ago, began Patty Mac as a small venture servicing clients in the affluent cottage region of Muskoka. Over the years, it has evolved into a $30 million business with over 85 staff members, catering to some of the most successful individuals in the Greater Toronto area and central Ontario.

During the episode, Steve shares insights into his entrepreneurial journey, discussing the challenges and complexities of building and managing a business of such magnitude. He reflects on his experiences before and after participating in our program, highlighting the pivotal role of sales skills and perseverance in his success.

Listeners will find out how Steve's initial venture in property maintenance expanded into multimillion-dollar custom home builds, driven by a commitment to excellence and client satisfaction. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining strong client relationships and the power of referrals in sustaining and growing a business.

Steve also delves into the strategies he employs to retain top talent, manage finances, and navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. From prioritizing transparent communication with clients to fostering a positive company culture, Steve shares invaluable lessons for aspiring leaders.

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The evolution of Patty Mac from a small maintenance service to a multimillion-dollar custom home builder
• The role of sales skills and perseverance in entrepreneurial success
• Strategies for retaining top talent and managing finances in a growing business
• The importance of transparent communication and fostering a positive company culture
• Insights into Steve's personal habits and mindset for success
• And so much more…

In today's episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris chats with William Matte, a remarkable young leader from Quebec City who is breaking new records in our program.

During the episode, Will shares insights into his journey, the important lessons he learned at the Student Works Management Program, and strategies for growing leaders and reaching business goals.

Will highlights =the importance of structure and systems in business, he discusses scaling business operations and sales strategies, the importance of communication, delegation, organisation, integrity, and following through on commitments.

He also emphasises the crucial role of team culture in entrepreneurial success, including the benefits of a positive and supportive team environment.

Listeners will find out about Will's transformative experience with Student Works, where he rapidly scaled his painting business, leveraging his sales skills and fostering a strong team culture.

They will also learn about Will's ambitious goals, including running a half-million-dollar business, and balancing academics while training for an Ironman competition.

Listen now and enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• The importance of organisation and delegation in scaling a business.
• Strategies for effective sales and overcoming objections.
• Building a strong team culture and fostering leadership.
• Implementing routines and habits for success in business and life.
• The power of setting goals and enrolling others in collective success.
• And so much more…

Resources:

Student Works

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris is joined by Jon Mailhot, a former top operator at Student Works who has since carved a successful career in various industries, including sales, marketing, and most recently, environmental sustainability in the plastics recycling sector. Jon shares insights from his journey, emphasizing the value of basic sales and marketing principles across different roles, from his early days in door-to-door sales to his pivotal role in procurement and sales in the plastics recycling industry. His story illustrates the importance of listening to and learning from industry professionals, as well as the impact of persistence and embracing new challenges for professional growth.

Jon's career trajectory is notable for its diversity, from working with the Montreal Canadiens in media planning and innovation to transitioning into the environmental sector with a focus on plastics recycling. This shift was driven by a combination of personal life changes and a growing interest in contributing positively to environmental sustainability. Jon highlights the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and the willingness to step into unfamiliar territories to drive both personal and professional development. His experience underscores the significance of understanding industry cycles, the power of networking, and the importance of seizing opportunities that align with one’s values and interests.

Chris and Jon also explore themes of mental health and work-life balance, with Jon advocating for the importance of self-care, physical activity, and seeking professional help when needed. He shares personal reflections on the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family life, especially during the pandemic, and how these experiences led him to prioritize his mental and physical well-being. Jon’s story is a testament to the idea that success is not only defined by professional achievements but also by the ability to maintain health and happiness. His journey from a young entrepreneur to a leader in environmental sustainability offers valuable lessons on resilience, adaptability, and the importance of aligning one’s career with their values and passions.

Enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• How listening to industry professionals and learning from them has been crucial throughout Jon's career.
• Jon's shift from a successful sales career to a role in environmental sustainability, the importance of being open to change and the value of continuous learning.
• How networking and building genuine relationships can open doors to unexpected and exciting career opportunities.
• The importance of taking care of one's mental health and finding a balance between work and personal life.
• The growing importance of sustainability in business operations, and how businesses can contribute positively to environmental sustainability.
• Jon's habit of being perpetually curious and willing to learn, and why it's a key driver of personal and professional growth.
• The importance of leading by example, inspiring others, and incorporating sustainability into leadership practices.
• And so much more…