Podcast

A podcast that highlights inspiring entrepreneurial journeys, from humble beginnings to industry success and meaningful community impact. Through authentic conversations, discover the stories, insights, and lessons that shape exceptional leaders and innovators.

Episode 17 - Lee Bragg

Excited to share my latest podcast conversation with Lee Bragg, Executive Vice Chair of Eastlink. We talked about his lifelong involvement in the family business, starting as a kid and growing into a leadership role that continues to shape the company’s future. Lee shared insights on passing core values to the next generation, advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, and why having the courage to believe in Atlantic Canada’s potential is so important.

Episode 16 - Peter MacKay

I sit down with Peter MacKay, one of Canada’s most influential political figures, to discuss his remarkable career and life beyond politics. We explore his early years and what inspired him to enter public service, the leadership lessons he learned throughout his time in government, and the defining moments that shaped his tenure as Minister of National Defense. Peter shares candid stories from his time in cabinet, his pivotal role in merging the Progressive Conservative and Canadian Alliance parties to form today’s Conservative Party, and how those decisions continue to impact Canadian politics. We also dive into how individuals can get involved and make a meaningful impact in their communities, the most important lessons he’s learned from decades in politics, and his advice for future leaders navigating today’s complex world.

Episode 15 - Cynthia Sullivan Francis

In this episode, we talk with Cynthia Francis, founder of Halifax’s first Flight Attendant Academy. Cynthia opens up about her entrepreneurial journey and the lessons learned along the way. Through her story, she hopes to inspire young women to take that leap of faith and explore the world of entrepreneurship. Tune in for an honest conversation about courage, vision, and the power of believing in yourself.

Episode 14 - Eric Landry

In this episode, I sit down with my longtime friend Eric Landry, the owner and founder of Landrik Properties. Eric shares how he made the bold decision to leave a secure engineering career to follow his true passion — real estate. We talk about what it takes to step away from comfort, take calculated risks, and build something meaningful from the ground up. It’s an honest and inspiring conversation about purpose, perseverance, and the entrepreneurial mindset.

Episode 13 - Lorna MacMillan

In this episode, I sit down with Lorna MacMillan, founder and CEO of Parkwood Home Care, to talk about what it takes to start and grow a thriving business later in life. Lorna shares her inspiring journey from idea to impact, building a company rooted in compassion, trust, and personalized care. Driven by her passion for helping others, she has built a business dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate home care that makes a real difference in her clients’ lives.

Episode 12 - Santana Anderson

In this episode, I speak with Santana Anderson, founder and owner of O2 Wellness, about the realities of launching and growing a fitness business. Santana shares the challenges of opening a new gym, how he navigated the impact of COVID-19, and the misconceptions that often hold people back in their fitness journeys. We also discuss the importance of finding the right coach and supportive community to help individuals achieve lasting health and wellness results.

Episode 11 - Heather Rankin

Starting something new takes courage. Heather Rankin, founder of Obladee Wine Bar, shares how she left behind a secure career to take a bold risk—creating one of Halifax’s most beloved spots. Her story is a lesson in reinvention, passion, and the power of following your vision.

Episode 10 - Richard Arnold

In this episode, I sit down with Richard Arnold, the longtime leader and owner of Atlantic Tours, whose career in travel and hospitality has been nothing short of remarkable. Richard shares his journey from entering the travel industry as a young professional to eventually taking the reins of Atlantic Tours—a company that has become a cornerstone of tourism in the region.

Our conversation dives into the heart of what travel means: not just showing Maritimers the world, but also showcasing the beauty, culture, and hospitality of the Maritimes to visitors from around the globe. Richard reflects on the evolution of the industry, the challenges and opportunities of running a tour company, and the deep pride he feels in connecting people to unforgettable experiences.

Episode 9 - Roger King

Join us as we sit down with Roger King, Founder & President of Supplement King, as he shares how he grew a small side hustle from the trunk of his car into one of Canada’s leading supplement retailers. We dig into scrappy beginnings, franchise growth, brand culture, community impact, and what it really takes to scale retail in a noisy market.

If you’re into entrepreneurship, leadership, and building a winning team, this one is gold!

Episode 8 - Jim Spatz

In this episode, I sit down with Jim Spatz, Executive Chair of Southwest Properties, to explore the incredible legacy of his father, Simon Spatz.

After surviving the Holocaust, Simon immigrated to Canada and went on to build one of the region’s most respected real estate companies from the ground up. Jim shares stories of his father’s resilience, vision, and values — and how those principles continue to guide Southwest Properties today.

We also discuss the company’s long-standing commitment to building high-quality spaces, treating tenants with care and respect, and giving back meaningfully to the community.

Episode 7 - Joseph Daniel

Our next guest on the “Hallett Ouellette Wealth Management” Podcast is Joseph Daniel, CEO of Cresco Home Builders.

Joseph is a veteran in the Halifax Real Estate industry and highlights the keys to be successful in the space. Join us as we discuss the current challenges and developments happening in the housing market, not only in the Halifax area, but also across Canada.

Episode 6 - Marie Chapman

Our guest this week on the podcast is Marie Chapman, the CEO of the Museum of Immigration at Pier 21.  

The Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 is Canada’s sixth national museum and its mission is to share the ongoing story of immigration to Canada—past to present and coast to coast to coast. The Museum is where nearly one million immigrants landed in Canada from 1928 to 1971. 

Join us as we talk about the great exhibitions and stories told at Pier 21 and why you should go visit today! 

Episode 5 - Mayor Mike Savage

Mayor Savage has been the Mayor of Halifax since 2012 and has played an instrumental role in making Halifax the booming city it is today. We discuss the impact that he has had on the city on a local and global level as well as his thoughts on the future of Halifax. He also explains what makes a successful politician and shares stories from his tenure as Mayor for the last 12 years.

Episode 4 - Starr Cunningham

On this episode, we sit down and chat with Starr Cunningham, the President & CEO of the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia. Starr discusses the importance of education when it comes to living and dealing with mental illnesses as well as programs and resources dedicated to helping people not only survive, but thrive.

Episode 3 - The Hon. Stephen McNeil

Our next guest is the 28th premier of Nova Scotia, the honorable Stephen McNeil. Mr. McNeil made the switch from the business world to politics in 1999 and was elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly in 2003. He then went on to be the leader of the Nova Scotia Liberal Party from 2007 to 2021 and won a majority government in 2013 and again in 2017. He has been a major driver of putting the province of Nova Scotia on the map and driving economic progress on all fronts. He also led the province throughout the early stages of the Covid-19 pandemic, in which Nova Scotia was seen as an exemplary model throughout the country.

Episode 2 - Andree Godbout

Today's guest is Andrée Godbout, Director of Estates and Trusts at BMO Private Wealth. In this episode, we talk about the common myths and misconceptions involving Estates and Trusts. We discuss the importance of having an updated will, naming a willing and capable executor and Power of Attorney (POA). Having a robust and tested estate plan is essential to mitigate your tax liabilities upon death, to ensure you maximize the value of your assets (ie Estate) and to ensure that all of your final wishes are met and family harmony is maintained.

Episode 1 - Jeannine Bakeeff

Our first guest is Jeannine Bakeeff, who is the Chair of the UNICEF Water for Life gala in Halifax. Jeannine has been involved with UNICEF for over 25 years and has been instrumental in making the event such as success since it first began. During our chat, we talk a little about how UNICEF started, what they are focusing today as well what the Water For Life is all about and why you should join us.

For tickets to the Water for Life Gala, please reach out to Mathieu Ouellette at mathieu.ouellette@bmo.com or Claire Murphy at  is clmurphy@unicef.ca

For more information about the event, please check out UNICEF Water For Life Gala

For more information about UNICEF, please see UNICEF Website