
Episode #33: Navigating the Path to ECE Success with Eastern and triOS College
In this episode of EdUp Canada, host Michael Sangster speaks with with Stuart Bentley, president and co-founder of triOS Corporation, and Mimi Saleh, an early childhood education instructor at Eastern College. They explore the crucial role of experiential learning, emotional intelligence, and developmental understanding in early childhood education. The discussion also touches on the personalized culture within triOS and Eastern College, the growing demand in the early childhood education workforce, and the support systems in place for student success. Stuart and Mimi share insights into mentoring, the impact of Maria Montessori's principles, and the regulatory challenges faced by private colleges.

Episode #32: Unlocking Career Success: Lokken College's Impact on Canada's Skilled Labor Market
In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster speaks with Rick Butler, President and CEO of Lokken College in Alberta. They discuss the dire need for skilled labor in Canada amidst surprising funding cuts from both federal and provincial governments. Rick highlights Lokken College's tailored programs and personalized educational approaches that have led to a 100% employment rate for graduates in sectors like hospitality, industrial trades, and retail. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating regulatory approvals, meeting high demand with limited class sizes, and the importance of soft skills and real labor market needs. Despite significant funding cuts, the resilience and dedication of the college's staff and leadership in continuing to deliver quality education are emphasized. The episode concludes with a reflection on the emotional impact of graduations and a call to recognize the critical contributions of regulated career colleges.

Episode #31: Nurturing Young Minds: The Canadian Business College Experience
In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster dives into the transformative world of early childhood education with Grace DiMarcantonio, a seasoned instructor, and Dean Tremain, Executive Vice President of the Canadian Business College. They extensively discuss the pivotal role of regulated career colleges in shaping the future of early childhood education, the pros and cons of hybrid learning models brought by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of passionate and hands-on teaching.

Episode #30: The Legacy and Evolution of the Saskatoon Business College
On this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, hosted by Michael Sangster, we dive into the history and success of Saskatoon Business College. Founded in 1907, the college has been family-run since 1951. Barry Chapman from the school shares insights on the importance of quality instructors, national curriculum standards, and staying updated with technological advancements.

Episode #29: Who are the Unsung Heroes of Canada’s Workforce? Peter Mansbridge Shares his Insights
In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster interviews Peter Mansbridge, former host of the CBC National News. They discuss the importance of trust in journalism, the impact of misinformation and disinformation, and Mansbridge's extensive career in broadcasting. Mansbridge shares insights from his new book, 'How Canada Works,' which profiles ordinary Canadians with essential jobs.

Episode #28: What Policies Does Canada Need to Set Its Students up For Success
In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster talks with John Baird, former cabinet minister and senior member of the Conservative Party of Canada. They discuss the evolving demands of the labor market, the impact of geopolitics on large companies, and the importance of private delivery of education to meet labor needs.

Episode #27: Oulton College's Long Journey to Granting Nursing Degrees with Darcie Reidpath
In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster discusses a monumental achievement in the New Brunswick education sector with Darcie Reidpath, the president and co-owner of Oulton College in Moncton, New Brunswick. They delve into how the college became the first private career college in the Maritimes, possibly even in Canada, to offer a standalone degree program, specifically focusing on the bachelor's of science in nursing program.

Episode #26: How Infofit Fitness Career College is Transforming Lives Through Fitness Education with André Noël Potvin
In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster delves into the transformative power of fitness education with guest Andre Potvin, founder of Infofit Fitness Career College in Vancouver. They discuss the vital role of passion in pursuing a career in fitness, the importance of practical training in fitness education, and the positive job outlook for certified fitness instructors. The episode also touches on Andre's unique journey from exploring various professions to dedicating his life to fitness education, and the impact of mentors on personal and professional growth.

Episode #25: How the Academy of Learning’s Competitive Advantage is Investing in Student Success
In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster engages with Chamara Perera, COO of Opulence Education Group, and other guests to explore the transformative power of career education. The discussion highlights the importance of student success, the role of educators in nurturing leaders, and how personalized training and skills development lead to gainful employment.

Episode #24: How Chad Rogers Sees Career Colleges Shaping the Economic Future of Canada
In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster is joined by Chad Rogers, partner at Crestview Strategy, for a deep dive into the intersections of public policy, politics, and skill development in Canada. They explore the role of career colleges in shaping the economic futures of Canadian families, discuss the complexities of populist politics and media, and discuss recent government management of international student policies and tech platform regulations. Amidst these discussions, Rogers shares his insights on the realities of government decision-making, the necessity of hard work for success, and the importance of mentorship.

Episode #23: From Engineer to Master of the Mint: Marie Lemay's Career Journey
In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster welcomes Marie Lemay, the CEO and president of the Royal Canadian Mint, to discuss the importance of leadership and skills development in achieving career success. They explore how good leadership doesn't need to compromise social good or employee well-being, and how these elements can actually reinforce each other.

Episode #22: What Actually Makes you Stand out in the Job Application Process?
This episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, hosted by Michael Sangster, features a discussion with Sheila Musgrove, the founder of Tag Recruitment and an Amazon bestselling author. The discussion kicks off by acknowledging the achievements of women, particularly in the context of International Women's Day, and emphasizing the ongoing need for recognizing and supporting women in all fields. The spotlight then shifts to the core topic of career advancement and the crucial role of resumes in the job search process. Sheila Musgrove shares her expert advice on crafting impactful resumes, moving away from outdated resume formats to a two-step formula that showcases measurable achievements.

Episode #21: Transitioning Veterans into Firefighting: A Path to Continued Service with Raakesh Bharathi and Mike Lunn
The EdUp Canada podcast episode, hosted by Michael Sangster, delves into the subject of veterans transitioning into civilian life and how the Ontario Fire Academy plays a crucial role in repurposing their skills for firefighting careers in Canada and abroad. Guests Raakesh Bharathi, president of the Ontario Fire Academy, and Mike Lunn, a career firefighter and instructor at the academy, share their military backgrounds, their journeys into firefighting, and how the academy's programs, designed with veterans in mind, prepare individuals for firefighting careers. The episode covers the importance of recognizing the potential of veterans, addressing the general public's misunderstanding of veterans, and the unique attributes veterans bring to firefighting.

Episode #20: From Tractor Accident in Small-Town Kansas to Global Entrepreneurship
In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster talks Brooke Roberts in a discussion that explores the trajectory of skills development across various careers, highlighting the universal importance of skills regardless of the professional path chosen. Brooke shares her unique journey, from leveraging insurance money from a farm accident to explore Europe, to navigating the challenging job market with an international education background, eventually leading to her embrace of the digital nomad lifestyle and solopreneurship.

Episode #19: How a Lack of Language Training can Lead to a Crisis of Identity with Nadine Baladi
In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster speaks with Nadine Baladi about the critical role language plays in education and career success. Nadine, a seasoned professional in language and career education and a member of the National Association of Career Colleges' board of directors, shares her rich family history of international education and multilingualism, underscoring the emotional intelligence and cultural understanding that comes from learning a second or third language. They discuss the overlooked emphasis on language in education, particularly in ESL programs, and explore how career colleges and language academies can better support international students in Canada amidst a crisis of identity and communication within the sector.

Episode #18: How Philanthropy is Building Skills for the Future with Kimberley Hanson
In this episode, Michael speaks with Kimberly Hanson, CEO of Health Partners. Kimberley sheds light on the role of training, skills, and philanthropy in creating lasting careers. They delve into strategies for collaboration between employers and health charities, aiming to create healthier workplaces while fostering community resilience and well-being. Additionally, Kimberley underlines the importance of having clear intentions, being adaptable, and cultivating personal values in an ever-evolving workplace. The significance of philanthropy in personal and career development is also examined.

Episode #17: What the Restaurant Business will Teach you out About Leadership with Joe Leonhardt
In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster talks with Joe Leonhardt, a 25-year veteran in higher education, about skills, education, and leadership. Joe and Michael talk about how the restaurant business will teach you a lot about leadership. Joe emphasizes digital marketing skills and shares the importance of effective communication in leadership. He also expresses his passion for career education, specifically within the trades. Joe tells the inspiring story of his first student who, against all odds, found a path to success through higher education.

Episode #16: How Will New Policy Changes Shape Canadian Education with Dr. Julia Christensen Hughes
In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast we explore the transformative role of skills and training in shaping successful careers. The episode features Dr. Julia Christensen Hughes reflecting on Canada's educational sector, focusing on both her university experience at Yorkville University and her relationship with the Toronto Film School, a regulated career college.

Episode #15: Future Skills, Labor Market, and the Impact of Higher Education with Nik Nanos
In this episode of the EdUp Canada podcast, host Michael Sangster is joined by special guest Nik Nanos, the Chief Data Scientist with Nanos Research. They discuss the evolving needs of the labor market, the importance of seeing oneself as a lifelong learner, and the role of international students in Canada's prosperity. The conversation also covers the vital role that post-secondary education institutions play in society. Tune in now!

Episode #14: Are international Students Part of the Housing Problem in Canada? Mike Moffatt Says No.
In this episode of the EdUp Canada Podcast, host Michael Sangster interviews policy wonk Mike Moffatt, expert in housing and community issues. They discuss how the growth of international students at certain institutions has had significant impacts on local housing markets and communities. Moffat emphasizes that the students themselves are not creating the issues, but that it stems from policy and planning oversights.