This discussion explores Sanaz Lafuente's journey as an engineering leader within Vancouver’s tech community. She reflects on her early ambition to pursue physics and how her path ultimately evolved toward engineering and leadership. Throughout the conversation, she underscores the importance of building strong relationships and maintaining an effective network, both of which have played a key role in her career development.

The episode also examines how management styles in the tech industry are evolving alongside rapid technological change, with a growing emphasis on communication and adaptability. Overall, it offers a thoughtful perspective on professional growth, leadership, and the importance of interpersonal connections in shaping a successful career in tech.

Takeaways:

• In the dynamic landscape of technology, the shift from hardware to software engineering reflects the relevance of software across diverse industries, demonstrating its expansive applicability beyond traditional boundaries.
• Building relationships and networking are indispensable skills that significantly influence career progression, as evidenced by personal experiences shared during the episode.
• Effective leadership in engineering requires a shift from technical oversight to fostering an environment that encourages team autonomy and proactive ownership among team members.
• Navigating the complexities of larger organizations necessitates a keen understanding of influence and decision-making dynamics, highlighting the importance of collaboration across various levels of expertise.
• Emphasizing communication skills over purely technical abilities when hiring engineers can enhance team cohesion and project outcomes, reflecting a changing landscape in technical recruitment.
• Parenting not only cultivates empathy but also fosters a heightened sense of responsibility, shaping leadership approaches in the workplace and influencing team dynamics.

The conversation focuses on the experiences of George Anderson, MLA for Nanaimo-Lantzville, and his journey into public service at a young age. From studying law to working across different roles in government, he shares how those experiences have shaped his perspective on leadership and community.

We explore the challenges and opportunities he sees in today’s landscape, along with his belief that strong communities are built when diverse voices are included and heard.

At its core, this episode is a reminder that leadership and progress depend on people being engaged, stepping up, and playing an active role in shaping the future.

Takeaways:

• George Anderson began his political career at the young age of 20, reflecting a remarkable achievement in local governance.
• With a background in law and public service, Anderson has advocated for community representation and environmental considerations in his political decisions.
• He emphasizes the importance of transportation infrastructure as a means of ensuring equal opportunities for citizens across British Columbia.
• The discussion highlights the need for government policies that prioritize the welfare of citizens, particularly in areas such as healthcare and housing affordability.
• Anderson's experiences in both the private and public sectors allow him to approach governance with a comprehensive understanding of economic and social dynamics.
• The podcast concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage actively in their communities, reinforcing that change begins with individual involvement.

This episode of the podcast focuses on the journey of Bedad Jamshidi, a marketing connector who left a secure engineering role at Telus to pursue entrepreneurship. In our conversation, we explore how his combination of technical expertise and strong interpersonal skills has helped him build meaningful relationships and support business growth. Bedad shares the moment he realized his strength in connecting with people, which ultimately led him to shift his career toward collaboration and relationship-building. We also discuss the challenges and rewards of launching his own marketing venture while still maintaining a corporate role. Overall, Bedad’s story highlights the importance of self-awareness and the impact that genuine relationships can have in both personal and professional life.

Takeaways:

1. The discussion illustrates the intriguing transition from a secure engineering career to the entrepreneurial landscape, highlighting the significance of personal growth and adaptability.
2. Bedad's unique blend of technical acumen and interpersonal skills underscores the value of connecting deeply with others in a business context.
3. The podcast emphasizes the importance of overcoming fear and embracing uncertainty as fundamental components of the entrepreneurial journey.
4. A central theme involves the necessity of introspection and self-awareness, which Bedad credits for his ongoing personal and professional development.
5. The conversation reveals how cultivating a robust network can yield unexpected opportunities and support throughout one's career endeavors.
6. Leadership is framed as an opportunity to coach and empower others, highlighting the shift towards empathy and understanding in modern business dynamics.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. cjammarketing.com

Throughout the conversation, Pastor Kyle Yumang shares his perspective on servant leadership. For him, leadership is not about authority or titles. It is about serving others, building genuine connections, and creating spaces where people can grow. This mindset shows up in both his ministry and his work as an artist, allowing him to reach people in meaningful and relatable ways.

We also talk about the challenge of staying grounded in purpose, especially in uncertain seasons. Kyle emphasizes the importance of knowing your intrinsic value, separate from achievements or recognition. He encourages leaders to pursue authenticity, to balance personal fulfillment with responsibility, and to remain committed to serving their communities.

Ultimately, this episode is about more than faith or creativity alone. It is about leading with empathy, living with intention, and building communities where people feel seen, valued, and inspired to grow.

Takeaways:

1. The journey of leadership is profoundly influenced by one's upbringing and community.
2. Success is not solely determined by one's location or background but rather by individual effort and creativity.
3. Understanding and integrating faith into modern contexts can significantly impact community engagement.
4. A healthy balance between personal fulfillment and professional responsibility is essential for effective leadership.

References mentioned in this episode:

1. Not Klyde
2. Rock Generation Church

Angela Robertson, a distinguished executive and current CEO of Acetech, shares her profound insights on navigating the complexities of leadership in the technology sector. With a unique academic background in both business and biochemistry from Queen’s University, she reflects on her journey from her formative years to her pivotal role at Vorum, where she witnessed firsthand the tumultuous shifts during the 2008 financial crisis.

This experience not only shaped her understanding of the importance of diverse perspectives in leadership but also instilled in her the value of openness and curiosity.

Angela emphasizes the necessity for leaders to cultivate a culture of curiosity within their organizations, particularly in light of the rapid advancements in technology and the challenges they present.

Through her work at Acetech, she seeks to empower tech founders and CEOs by fostering connections and encouraging resilience, thereby preparing them to navigate the complexities of their entrepreneurial journeys.

Takeaways:

1. Angela Robertson illustrates how a diverse educational background can catalyze innovative leadership in technology.
2. Her experiences highlight the significance of resilience and adaptability during complex business transitions.
3. The importance of fostering a culture of curiosity within organizations is essential for innovation and growth.
4. Leadership is not solely about authority but also about listening and valuing team contributions.
5. Angela emphasizes that leaders must be open to learning from failures as a pathway to success.
6. Community connections among entrepreneurs can provide invaluable support during challenging times.

Learn More About Acetech:

1. Acetech is a membership society for technology founders and CEOs that exists to ensure no founder or CEO has to grow their business alone. Learn more about joining their community here.
2. The Acetech Leadership Retreat is their flagship event happening April 13-15, 2026 in beautiful Whistler, BC. Tickets here.

This podcast episode features a thoughtful and engaging conversation with Jivi Saran, a respected leadership advisor, professor, and executive coach. At the heart of the discussion is the need to rethink what leadership looks like in today’s fast-moving, digital-first world, especially as many traditional models fall short by overlooking the human side of work. Jivi draws from her experience working with over 300 leaders to show how clarity, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness can drive not only stronger performance, but healthier, more sustainable cultures.

Throughout the episode, we explore her unique approach to leadership, which centers on authenticity, connection, and conscious decision-making. She challenges leaders to move beyond command-and-control styles and instead create environments where people feel seen, supported, and empowered to do their best work. As Jivi shares her journey and insights, it becomes clear that the future of leadership isn’t just about strategy or execution. It’s about presence, purpose, and leading in a way that allows both individuals and organizations to grow together.

Takeaways:

1. Jivi Saran emphasizes the necessity for leaders to cultivate emotional intelligence for authentic connections within organizations.
2. An exploration of leadership reveals that traditional models often overlook the importance of self-awareness and personal identity.
3. The concept of conscious capitalism is presented as essential for sustainable business practices that benefit both people and the planet.
4. Jivi advocates for the integration of personal values in the workplace to foster a positive organizational culture and enhance employee satisfaction.
5. The importance of self-reflection and personal growth is highlighted as a pathway to effective leadership and organizational transformation.
6. Through experiential learning techniques, leaders can create environments that encourage open dialogue and foster innovative thinking in their teams.

Material referenced in this episode:

1. quantumbusinessgrowth.ca
2. Put the Moose on the Table
3. Permission To Be YOU

This episode of The Eh List features a thoughtful conversation with strategy leader Jordan Schwartz, who shares how leadership, growth, and human connection shape successful organizations. With more than a decade of experience at the intersection of technology and business, Jordan reflects on his journey from university to his current leadership role at Caylent, explaining why following instinct and staying open to opportunity can be more valuable than rigid career planning.

Jordan discusses the importance of building strong relationships, investing in personal development, and creating cultures that support long-term growth, especially in fast-changing business environments. He also highlights why hiring for cultural fit matters and how leaders can balance strategy with execution when expectations are high.

Drawing from his early career experiences, including his time at Traction on Demand and its acquisition by Salesforce, Jordan explains how an exploratory approach helped shape his path. He introduces the idea of delayed gratification, encouraging young professionals to focus on long-term development rather than short-term rewards.

Throughout the episode, Jordan emphasizes the role of company culture, the value of meaningful connections, and the impact of finding leaders who challenge you to grow. He reminds listeners that every organization has its own subcultures, and understanding them can play a major role in career success.

Overall, Jordan’s story is a reminder that careers are rarely linear. Success is driven not by job titles or company names, but by the experiences you gain, the relationships you build, and your willingness to adapt as opportunities arise.

Takeaways:

1. The journey of career exploration often involves making instinctual decisions rather than following a predetermined path.
2. Fostering relationships within an organization can lead to unexpected opportunities and growth in one's career.
3. Delayed gratification is a vital principle for younger generations to understand in their career development.
4. Building teams with the right cultural fit is paramount for creating a successful and cohesive work environment.
5. Leaders must act decisively when faced with underperformance or challenges within their teams to ensure continuous improvement.
6. Investing in oneself and prioritizing personal growth over immediate gains can yield long-term career benefits.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

1. Traction on Demand
2. Salesforce
3. Caylent
4. Live Different

Books mentioned in this episode:

This episode features an insightful conversation with Precious Ile, Executive Coach and Co-Founder of Impact Plus Consulting. Her journey, which began with a scholarship to study in Canada, is a story of resilience, growth, and leadership development.

Growing up in Nigeria, Precious reflects on how her family and early experiences shaped her values, especially integrity and the importance of finding and using her voice in challenging situations. Her early experiences in public speaking and poetry became the foundation for the work she does today, helping leaders communicate clearly and build trust within their teams.

Throughout the discussion, Precious shares her perspective on authenticity in leadership, introducing the idea of adaptive authenticity. She explains how leaders can stay true to who they are while remaining aware of and responsive to their audience. At its core, she emphasizes that effective communication is not just about delivering a message, but about creating connection, inspiring engagement, and moving people toward meaningful action.

Takeaways:

1. Precious Ile's journey illustrates the significance of cultivating one's voice from an early age.
2. The importance of adaptive authenticity in leadership allows for effective communication with diverse audiences.
3. Engaging with stakeholders fosters a sense of community and collaboration within organizations.
4. Using one's voice as an act of stewardship can create meaningful impact in the lives of others.
5. Leaders must reframe self-promotion as promoting ideas, facilitating positive change in society.
6. The ability to connect through storytelling enhances empathy and inspires others to lead.