Pitch Please

What Tools Do Co-Founders Need for Efficient Equity Management?
In this episode of Pitch Please, Dwayne Forde, co-founder of Mantle, shares his vast experience in engineering and startup ecosystems, leading to the creation of Mantle, an AI-driven platform designed to simplify equity management for founders. 

With a career spanning over two decades, Dwayne has developed full-stack solutions across various sectors and managed extensive cloud infrastructure projects. Mantle stands out by offering founders an efficient way to manage Cap Tables, ESOP Plans, and automate critical workflows, revolutionizing how startups and high-growth companies handle equity management. 

Tune in to gain valuable insights into the realm of startup management and the innovative solutions Mantle offers. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned startup founder, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories.

About Dwayne Forde  | Dwayne Forde: LinkedIn
With over 20 years in engineering, Dwayne has championed full-stack solutions primarily in startups, covering all major sectors including healthcare, finance, entertainment, social, etc. His expertise extends to managing vast cloud infrastructure projects consumed by most of the Fortune 500. As a seasoned leader, Dwayne has directed teams of 180+ across multiple countries. Known for excelling in uncharted software territories, Dwayne is entrusted with shaping novel patterns in cutting-edge domains. Dwayne has presented his award-winning work at events like TEDx Silicon North and has also been featured in major publications, including The Globe and Mail and The Toronto Star.

About Mantle | Mantle: LinkedIn
Mantle is a next generation platform for modern founders, powered by AI. Founders trust Mantle to manage startups and high growth companies, offering a simple way to manage your Cap Table, ESOP Plans, and includes automated workflows such as a one-click issuance of Option Agreements with corresponding Board Resolutions.

With their AI-powered term sheet modeller, and powerful forward-looking ESOP modelling platform, founders can spend less time in spreadsheets, and more time building their company.

Want to Connect?

• Website: https://withmantle.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwayneforde/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/dwayneforde

Interested in Learning More?
We've just recently completed our public launch and are onboarding companies. We currently have a promotion where we're free for 1 year. Anyone interested can reach out via https://withmantle.com/demo.

In a world where AI is reshaping industries, how is one company changing the game in recruitment?
In this episode of Pitch Please, we're joined by Jonathan Mirecki, co-founder of Searchless, a platform revolutionizing the hiring landscape through conversational AI.

Jonathan takes us through his entrepreneurial journey, from early ventures to the inception of Searchless alongside his brother Eli, a seasoned software engineer. He discusses the inefficiencies in traditional hiring processes and how Searchless aims to streamline recruitment by eliminating reliance on resumes and cover letters, which are increasingly generated by AI tools like ChatGPT. Instead, Searchless focuses on conversational AI to assess candidates' skills and match them with suitable roles, ensuring a more efficient and bias-free hiring process.

This episode delves into the challenges of modern recruitment, the impact of AI on job applications, and how Searchless provides a unique solution by focusing on meaningful conversations rather than paper credentials. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of work, AI's role in recruitment, and the story behind a startup aiming to simplify hiring for companies and candidates alike.

About Jonathan Mirecki  | Jonathan Mirecki | LinkedIn
From a young age, Jonathan has been fascinated by business. He read his first business book at the age of 11, started a lawn care business at age 12, and began working as an accountant for his brother's company as a teen. While in university, he ran his own consulting firm, and then rejoined his brother's company as head of sales and business development. During that time, he built teams across the company, forged partnerships with brands like Ford of Canada, and acted as product manager for two successful products. He fell in love with the process of forming teams, building products, and growing a company. He also learned, after having hired dozens of people, that the recruitment process can be frustrating. A huge amount of time is wasted sorting through resumes and screening candidates, rather than conducting in-depth interviews with the best candidates. Jonathan knew that this would only get worse, given the advent of ChatGPT and the vast number of candidates who would now be using it to write their resumes and cover letters. It then hit him: resumes, job postings, and screening need to be replaced by a more efficient process. A process that cuts through the clutter. That's when he decided to launch Searchless, a recruitment platform that matches job seekers with employers, through conversational AI. His brother Eli, a software engineer who worked at Dropbox and Amazon, is joining him on the mission to automate candidate sourcing and screening, and the job search as a whole.

About Searchless | Searchless: Overview | LinkedIn
Searchless is an AI-based recruitment platform. We connect job seekers with employers, by talking to both parties through conversational AI, and then matching them. For job seekers, this means no more mass applying to jobs. For recruiters and hiring managers, this means being able to stop wasting time sorting through resumes and screening, and completely focus on the highest value activity in recruitment: interviewing top candidates.

Want to Connect?

• Email: jon@searchless.ca
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonmirecki/
• Website: searchless.ca

Want to Learn More?
Our paid pilot is now live, starting with software developer roles. If you are hiring software developers, let's have a chat & do a live demo!

How does one inspire and equip the next generation of leaders?
Dive into this electrifying episode of Pitch Please as we sit down with Ziyaan, the visionary behind Leaders of Today. Discover the journey of an organization committed to unlocking the potential of young minds through innovative leadership programs. From grassroots community impact to global initiatives, Leaders of Today is more than just a movement; it's a catalyst for change.

Ziyaan shares insights on nurturing leadership skills, fostering a network of young visionaries, and the challenges and triumphs of building a purpose-driven enterprise. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned leader, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories that will ignite your passion for making a difference. Tune in to learn how Ziyaan is shaping the Leaders of Today.

About Ziyaan Virji  | (20) Ziyaan Virji | LinkedIn
Ziyaan Virji is an award-winning entrepreneur that has found purpose in creating social impact. At only 15, he founded For The Menstruator., a global organization that aims to create a world of menstrual equity and has empowered over 20,000 people in 10 countries around the world. He has previously worked and served on the boards of a range of organizations in the Climate, Health, Education and Poverty space with his impact reaching over half a million people. He is a recognized speaker with his work being featured at some of the most powerful events and platforms including TED, BBC, DW, Toronto Star, Yahoo News and more. For his contribution towards humanitarian efforts, he has won some of the most prestigious accolades including the Princess Diana Award, Global Teen Leader, Winner of the Dragons’ Den for Change and Future 25 Under 25!  

Ziyaan is currently on a mission to empower other youth leaders through their journeys. He is the founder of the Leaders of Today Community that has 47,000+ people from around the world and includes a newsletter, podcast and more!

About Leaders of Today | (20) Leaders of Today: Overview | LinkedIn
Leaders of Today is one of the fastest-growing communities of young people who are changing the world. The community has over 47,000+ young people and includes a weekly newsletter, podcast and opportunity list.

Want to Connect?

• Newsletter: https://leadersoftoday.beehiiv.com/subscribe

Ready to shape the future?
Join Leaders of Today in empowering the next generation of leaders—dive in now and make a difference! 

Eager to see how innovation can redefine campus safety? Join us as we chat with Nelson Lee, the mastermind behind Haven, the game-changing app designed to enhance safety and security for academic institutions.

From his engineering roots to the personal motivation spurred by a friend's tragic experience, Nelson's journey to developing Haven is a testament to his dedication to social change. Throughout this episode, we explore the app's evolution from a simple safety tool to a comprehensive educational platform that empowers users with knowledge on consent and preventive measures.

Dive into this episode to uncover Nelson Lee's inspiring story, the intricate development of Haven, and the profound impact it's making on campuses across Canada. Whether you're passionate about technology, education, or social change, this story of innovation and impact is not to be missed. Tune in now!

About Nelson Lee  | (20) Nelson Lee | LinkedIn
Nelson Lee has a personal mission to enable positive social change. Early in his engineering career, he decided to tackle the high rate of assaults at post-secondary institutions by developing Haven, a campus security app. Haven is now licensed by a growing base of North American universities, with ongoing development and upgrades to meet a broad range of institutional goals. 

Haven brought Nelson early but important recognition in the form of the Adel S. Sedra Award, the University of Toronto Engineering Leadership Award, and the prestigious University of Toronto 5T3 Engineering Award, worth over $30,000. Nelson’s work attracted this attention because his unique approach to Haven’s design encourages users to become familiar with the app, learn from it, and be prepared. The app can connect directly to campus security, but also offers intermediate steps and support including educational content on consent and domestic violence, plus specific topics customized to each school’s needs. 

Nelson is actively involved in the life of his own alma mater, the University of Toronto, where he volunteers on the Governing Council, overseeing the University’s $3B operating budget.

Prior to launching Haven, Nelson lived in San Francisco and worked in Full Stack Engineering at Hearth, a Series B startup. 

About Haven | (20) Haven: Overview | LinkedIn
Haven is a comprehensive safety platform that fortifies school communities by unifying students, universities, and first responders in real time. Haven is a singular, user-centric tool that integrates safety, education, and community. Embraced by educational institutions across Canada, Haven delivers an array of safety features such as emergency SOS, location sharing, geo-tagging, and customized push notifications.

Want to Connect?

• Website: https://www.havensafe.co/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/haven-safe-technology-corporation/
• Email: nelson@havensafe.co

Interested in Contributing?
If you know of any schools or organizations that would like to learn more about how Haven can make their communities safer, please provide us with a warm introduction and CC me at nelson@havensafe.co.

Ever wondered how technology could redefine your romantic relationships? Join us as we delve into Tim Johnson's journey from a diverse professional background to founding Couply, an app designed to deepen connections between partners. With insights from his time at Wattpad and his passion for science fiction writing, Tim shares the evolution of Couply from an idea to a tool used by hundreds of thousands to enhance their relationships.

This episode offers a comprehensive look into the challenges and victories of building a tech startup, the innovative use of AI in personalizing couple experiences, and Tim's vision for the future of Couply. It's a treasure trove of inspiration and practical advice for those interested in technology's role in personal development and relationship building.

About Tim Johnson  | (20) Tim Johnson | LinkedIn
Tim Johnson is the CEO and Cofounder of Couply, the app for Couples. He won Collision Pitch event, North America's largest pitch event to launch Couply. Previously, Tim was Director of Brand Partnerships at Wattpad which was acquired by Naver for $753M in 2021. He is also an author and has written 3x sci fi books, hitting #1 on Amazon.

About Couply | (20) Couply: Overview | LinkedIn
Couply helps 400,000 couples build an incredible relationship that lasts forever, through relationship questions, couples quizzes and then leveraging AI to generate custom date ideas and relationship advice all based on your partner’s personality.

Want to Connect?

• Website: https://couply.page.link/podcast
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tejjohnson/

Want to Try it Out?
Download the app now and get started!

Ever wondered what it takes to disrupt a market? In this episode, we talk to Ben from Caboodl — the tech-enabled home service business that's simplifying home management.

From his background in engineering and accounting to his experience in operations at Louis Vuitton and consulting at BMO, we delve into the origins of Ben's entrepreneurial spirit, influenced by his upbringing surrounded by entrepreneurs and his vision to disrupt the home maintenance industry.

Ben shares valuable insights on the significance of preventive home maintenance and the complexities of managing a home. By automating critical maintenance tasks and providing homeowners with a digital user manual customized for their homes, Caboodl takes the difficulty and stress out of managing your single largest investment.

Discover the story of Ben Bisset and Caboodl as we talk about the opportunities and challenges in the market, the impact of technology, and the benefits of their integrated subscription service.

If you're looking to learn about what it takes to make an impact in your industry, this episode is for you. Listen now!
 
About Ben Bisset  | (20) Ben Bisset | LinkedIn
Ben Bisset CPA, CA is the Founder and CEO of Caboodl - The Fix for Home Maintenance. His journey to bootstrapping a home services business has had many changes of direction including stints in engineering, accounting, luxury goods & fashion, finance, and strategy. Ben's realization of a need for a comprehensive home services business grew as he became a landlord and dealt with issues in his own home.

Growing up in Sudbury, Ontario he developed a passion for the outdoors, downhill skiing, mountain biking, hockey, and cooking. These days, you'll find him in the Leslieville neighbourhood of Toronto where he and his wife spend most days chasing their three young kids and wishing they got more sleep.

About Caboodl | (20) Caboodl: Overview | LinkedIn
Caboodl takes the difficulty and stress out of managing your single largest investment - your home. By creating a digital profile of your home and all its systems, appliances, and structures, they provide homeowners with everything needed to care for their home, in one place. It's the user manual you always wished came with your home. Caboodl also automates all your recurring maintenance and pairs you with a dedicated home manager that helps whenever issues arise or you're contemplating a renovation project.

Want to Connect?

• Website: https://caboodl.ca
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benbisset-caboodl/
• Email: hello@caboodl.ca
• Instagram: @caboodl
• Twitter: @caboodlhomes

Interested in Partnering with Us?
Realtors, Mortgage Brokers, and Insurance Brokers - Caboodl partners with high performers in these industries to provide a valuable and unique experience to your clients. Our services keep you top of mind for years after your transaction and provide your clients with a go-to resource for all maintenance questions about your home. Email us or book time here

Investors - Accredited investors can participate in Caboodl's first round of fundraising. For more details email us or book an introductory call here

Ever wondered what it takes to revolutionize the legal tech industry? We delve into Daniel's entrepreneurial journey, from his early days in accounting to his pivot into tech sales, and his experiences at prominent legal tech companies, ultimately leading to the founding of Lawbrokr. Daniel shares insights on the challenges and successes of being a first-time founder and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of celebrating milestones along the journey. Listeners can gain a deeper understanding of the legal tech industry and the significance of streamlined intake processes for law firms. As Daniel's story unfolds, the episode provides a wealth of inspiration and practical wisdom for startup enthusiasts and aspiring entrepreneurs.

About Daniel Steinberg  | (20) Daniel Steinberg | LinkedIn
Leveraging his background in Professional Services (Ex-EY), Marketing Technology (Ex-Influitive), and Legal Technology (Ex-Clio), Daniel Steinberg is the Co-Founder, and CEO of Lawbrokr™, a pre-qualification platform that helps lawyers humanize the way clients interact with their law firm. 

About Lawbrokr | (20) Lawbrokr: Overview | LinkedIn
Lawbrokr is pre-screening software that helps law firms qualify new leads. Lawbrokr’s platform provides each firm with a unique link that can be placed on a firm’s website and anywhere else that people search for law firms. The link connects legal consumers to a set of simple but effective qualifying questions. In just a few clicks, the consumer gains an understanding of the services offered, and the firm receives visibility into case details. This allows the firm to invest its time into qualified prospects rather than those that aren't a fit. 

Want to Connect?

• Website: https://www.lawbrokr.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/lawbrokr/
• Email: daniel@lawbrokr.com

Interested in Learning More?
We're always searching for new law firms, partners, and investors!

Curious about health innovation in the sleep and supplement industry? Join us as we delve into Justine's story and how a journey from a chiropractic career to technology sales led to the creation of an e-commerce startup, and their all-natural sleep supplement designed for fitness enthusiasts, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Justine reveals the challenges of developing a unique, melatonin-free formula and the process of bringing a natural, effective supplement to a competitive market. Thirdzy stands out by offering a scientifically backed solution to enhance the quality of rest, proving crucial for optimal performance and recovery. This episode is a must-listen for those intrigued by health innovation and the stories behind successful wellness startups. Tune in now!
 
About Justine Luchini  | (20) Justine Luchini | LinkedIn
Dr. Justine is the co-founder and CEO of Thirdzy. She studied Health Science at Western University and has a Doctorate in Chiropractic. Her professional journey has taken her around the world and across multiple fields. She has worked with thousands of people on improving their health, well-being, and performance and picked-up skills that have helped her found and grow her current startup.

About Thirdzy | (20) Thirdzy: Overview | LinkedIn
Thirdzy is an e-commerce start-up based in Canada that makes an all natural supplement designed to improve sleep quality and nightly recovery from tough workouts and demanding days. Thirdzy’s non-drowsy, melatonin-free formula is the basis of an easy sleep routine for busy, high performers looking to maximize their rest. 

Want to Connect?

• Website: www.thirdzy.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thirdzy/
• Instagram: @thirdzyHQ, @drjustineluchini

Curious About Enhancing Your Fitness and Athletics?
Discover how Thirdzy can revolutionize your rest and athletic performance today!

Curious about how AI and technology can make a trip to the pharmacy way better? In this episode we talk to Eunice, the creator of Asepha, and discuss how their smart AI helps pharmacies do their job better. From making appointments a breeze to helping doctors and patients connect easier, Asepha's smart tools are making waves in health care.

We discuss how their AI tech helps pharmacies work smarter. In our talk, Eunice takes us through her fascinating journey, including her time in Next36 where she searched high and low for the perfect co-founder to join her on this adventure. We dive into the nitty-gritty of how Asepha uses algorithms to better predict what patients need and how it keeps medicine stock just right.

Eunice's stories are real eye-openers, and she tells us how their AI isn't just about ticking boxes – it's changing health care for real people.

About Eunice Wu  | (20) Eunice Wu | LinkedIn
Eunice is a co-founder and CEO of Asepha. She has a Doctor of Pharmacy background and 8 years of experience working on various startups. Her team driven by a vision to create a more efficient and patient-centric healthcare system.

About Asepha | (20) Asepha: Posts | LinkedIn
Asepha is AI infrastructure built for streamlining pharmacy workflows. Asepha makes it easy for pharmacists to integrate AI-driven solutions into daily tasks. Generate patient education sheets, calculate dosages, complete DTP analysis and find answers to most challenging questions within seconds.

Want to Connect?

• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/asepha/
• Email: eunice@asepha.ai

Want to Get Involved?
Asepha is looking for new customers and pharmacy thought leaders to join our Pharmacy Innovation Community

What does it take to transcend the typical tech career and make your mark as an entrepreneur? Tune into this episode of Pitch Please for your dose of inspiration. Follow the story of TJ, who refused to be pigeonholed as just 'the tech guy' at Microsoft and transformed himself into a powerhouse entrepreneur.

Discover how TJ launched an innovative program to teach kids entrepreneurship, providing invaluable leadership skills to the next generation. Alongside this, explore how his entrepreneurial ventures extended to supporting his wife's spa business, embodying the perfect partnership that challenges and changes perceptions.

Get a front-row seat to TJ's philosophy of treating every role as an entrepreneur, which proves that innovation isn't restricted by job titles or corporate environments. This episode also delves into the critical skills and lessons gleaned from his father's extensive experience in retail—insights that any budding entrepreneur can apply to their journey.

Join us as we unpack the wealth of knowledge and determination that pushed TJ towards success, and how his relationship with both small businesses and multimillion-dollar corporations has cultivated a versatile and robust business acumen. This episode is a blend of personal evolution, strategic insights, and the unstoppable drive to reach entrepreneurial excellence—topped with practical experiences from the world of WrkPal.

About TJ Walia  | (14) TJ Walia | LinkedIn
TJ Walia, the visionary founder and CEO of ZenTek and WrkPal, is redefining the landscape of workplace productivity and management. At ZenTek, he leverages his extensive experience as a seasoned Microsoft executive to push the boundaries of technology, integrating AI with mindfulness to transform corporate environments. With WrkPal, TJ is pioneering a new era in workforce management, offering a solution that promotes real-time efficiency and fairness across diverse industries. His passion for continuous learning and innovation is at the core of both companies, shaping the future of how businesses operate and thrive

About WrkPal | (14) WrkPal: Overview | LinkedIn
WrkPal is a cutting-edge SaaS platform revolutionizing workforce management across various industries. Our solution empowers businesses to streamline staff scheduling, instantly fill shift gaps, and ensure operational efficiency. With WrkPal, organizations can enhance productivity, reduce costs, and foster fair and inclusive workplaces, all while delivering exceptional customer experiences.

Want to Connect?

• Email: CEO@WrkPal.com
• LinkedIn: www.aka.ms/tj

Interested in Helping?
WrkPal is currently fundraising and would love any introductions to possible customers!

Ever pondered on what it takes to ditch a steady paycheck for startup uncertainty? Dive into the entrepreneurial journey with our latest Pitch Please episode, where we explore the bold move from a stable job to the thrilling world of startups through the story of Doormat and the insights of its co-founder, Joel.

Listen as we unpack the challenges of shifting from financial security to striving for innovation, and learn why a comfy cash cushion might not soften the blow of a disappearing income. Discover why Joel decided that, despite the risks, Doormat was worth the leap and how he navigated the transition from 'Rise Market' and get the scoop on what it takes to align with the right co-founders when your startup dreams are big—beyond the million-dollar mark.

About Joel Fox  | (14) Joel Fox | LinkedIn
Joel is the Co-founder and COO of Doormat, a digital real estate legal service. Prior to Doormat, he was a founder and operator of Rise Market, an innovative online marketplace specializing in healthy food and supplements. Joel's professional journey began at RBC, where he navigated various strategy and operations roles across Personal & Commercial Banking and Technology & Operations. Starting out in RBC’s Leadership Development program, he eventually landed in the innovation space where he led multiple programs and teams. This experience exposed Joel to the growing tech ecosystem in Toronto and planted the seed for his entrepreneurial pursuits. 

About Doormat | (14) Doormat: Overview | LinkedIn
Doormat is a digital real estate legal service that facilitates residential property closings. When you buy or sell a home in Ontario, you need a real estate lawyer, which has historically been a confusing and expensive process. Doormat has built technology that brings clarity and simplicity to the property closing experience, while delivering an exceptional client experience that makes clients feel supported and informed. 

Want to Connect?

• Check us out - ​https://doormat.ca/
• Get started with Doormat - ​https://app.doormat.ca/get-started
• Refer a client - https://doormat.ca/partners
• Follow us on LinkedIn - ​https://ca.linkedin.com/company/doormatlaw

Want to Get Involved?
Are you a real estate agent, mortgage broker, or other business involved in the homebuyer journey? We'd love to meet you! Please connect with Joel on LinkedIn to chat.

How does a young entrepreneur transform a brilliant idea into a thriving business? This episode gives you an insider's peek as Sang spills the beans on the raw, exhilarating journey of startup life. From Sang's earliest entrepreneurial inklings at the age of 11 to the pivotal "Next 36" experience that shaped her entrepreneurial mindset, this is the story of ideas, ambition, and the making of a founder.

Teetering on the edge of innovation, they dive deep into the struggles and triumphs of finding the right co-founder – should you swipe right on Co-Founder Tinder or opt for someone you already know? Dive in for a candid, no-holds-barred conversation that embodies the spirit of "learn by doing" and showcases the indispensable value of a founder community. Buckle up, press play, and let the story of Peko inspire your next big thing!

About Sang Lê  | (14) Sang Lê | LinkedIn
Sang is the co-founder & CEO of Peko, Western Canada's first delivery service for “imperfect” and surplus groceries to fight food waste and improve access to healthy diets. Born and raised in Vietnam, Sang moved to Canada to attend the University of British Columbia in 2017. Before founding Peko three years later, Sang worked in product management and marketing at various companies such as Cisco, LinkedIn, Clearco, and Jupiter (YC S19). Currently, Sang is a Marketing Manager at Fresh Prep and continues to lead Peko under its parent company. In other projects, Sang helped LinkedIn and UBC pilot free e-learning access for all 60,000+ students, creating educational equity across faculties. Sang also led the marketing portfolio to promote free academic support for 5,000+ Commerce students and consulted for various companies through the Creative Destruction Lab, Kantar Consulting and the UBC Strategy Consulting Initiative. Aside from her work, Sang is especially passionate about breaking glass ceilings, experiential learning, traveling, and coffee. 

About Peko & FreshPrep | (14) Peko: Overview | LinkedIn
About Peko: Peko is Western Canada’s first delivery service dedicated to “peculiar” & surplus groceries at up to 40% off retail prices. Initially started as a passion project by two female university students to fight food waste, Peko has diverted 300,000+ lbs of food from going to the landfill and saved customers close to $1 million in grocery bills through their signature mystery bags. As of February 2023, Peko was acquired by Fresh Prep. Peko currently delivers in most of Metro Vancouver and Metro Calgary. 

Fresh Prep is a meal kit delivery service offered in over 35 municipalities throughout BC and Alberta. Founded in 2015, Fresh Prep delivers everything needed to make meals at home in under 30 minutes, plus delicious sides, salads and snacks. With a focus on sustainability, ingredients are delivered in reusable, insulated cooler bags, and many recipes are available in Fresh Prep’s patented Zero Waste Kit containers—minimizing single-use plastic waste and reducing impact on the environment. Meals are affordable and recipes are diverse to fit the needs of individuals, couples or families. Fresh Prep is a Certified B Corporation®, dedicated to doing business responsibly —balancing purpose and profit.

Want to Connect?

• @PekoProduce on all platforms - Instagram, FB, TikTok, Twitter

Ready to Start Saving?
Get 30% off your first Peko order: https://pekoproduce.com/discount/PITCHPLEASE30 (applicable to both one-time purchases and subscriptions).

Can your couch could help you save the world? In this eco-conscious episode of Pitch Please, we're diving deep into Paige's CouchHaus – a revolutionary name in the furniture world that's reshaping more than just the living rooms across Canada. Learn how Paige and her partner turned their e-commerce passion into a booming business, selling all their stores to focus primarily on CouchHaus. But it's not all sofas and throw pillows; it's about finding work-life balance with your fiancé-turned-business-partner while navigating the choppy waters of startup life.

Paige opens up about the realities of working with your partner, haring her journey towards carving out personal time while respecting her partner's die-hard dedication to their business. And of course, she spills the beans on what makes CouchHaus tick – their commitment to sustainability with initiatives like planting 100 trees for every couch built and partnering with The Furniture Bank to donate used sofas to families in need.

For anyone who felt buying furniture was an intimidating and unsatisfying experience, Paige's tales resonate deeply. She tackles the outdated furniture industry with a whip-smart digital strategy, offering a customized, direct-to-consumer approach that's all about personal connection – right down to starting with virtual fabric showcases and Facebook Marketplace.

About Paige Sandher | (14) Paige Sandher | LinkedIn
Paige Sandher co-founded Pulse Media Inc. in 2017 alongside her partner Harrison Gordon. By investing a few hundred dollars each, in the first four years, the couple has founded several e-Commerce Brands with successful acquisitions and exits. Throughout their e-Commerce success, the couple founded and currently operates a direct-to-consumer custom furniture store CouchHaus. She was recently titled a 2023 BC Business 30 Under 30 recipient, and LOI Youth Entrepreneur of the Year.

About CouchHaus | (14) CouchHaus: Overview | LinkedIn
CouchHaus is a direct-to-consumer custom modular sofa brand based in Vancouver, Canada. We offer made-to-order customizable furniture at an affordable mid-price point, combined with our commitment to environmental responsibility. Modular furniture allows you to rearrange the couch or add pieces as your space grows, plus all the covers + cushions are washable and replaceable. CouchHaus also plants 100 trees for every couch we build!

Want to Connect?

• www.couchhaus.comhello@couchhaus.com
• IG: @couch_haus
• Tiktok: @couchhaus

Looking for a Couch?
Stay tuned for our Boxing Day sale, one of the best sales of the year! We also have standard in-stock items, just in time for the holidays 👀

Wondering what's really going on with doctors and the healthcare system today? Check out our podcast featuring Docere Health for some eye-opening conversations. We talk about the serious issue of doctor burnout, with thousands in Canada hitting a wall every year and a staggering number of US doctors saying they'd retire if they could.

We also dive into the journey of going from a healthcare enthusiast to a tech-savvy entrepreneur. Listen in as we discuss the ups and downs of introducing AI into a traditionally slow-moving industry and how to make an impact without stepping on too many toes.

Join us as we hear stories of starting from the bottom and building something that matters in healthcare tech. We've got insights on how to navigate the tough but rewarding path of a startup, the importance of remembering why you started, and some practical advice for anyone in North America looking to make their mark.

This episode isn't just another healthcare podcast; it's a real-deal talk on the struggles and successes of innovating in a space that affects us all. Tune in to hear all about it.

About Luka Lamaj  | (66) Luka Lamaj | LinkedIn
Luka Lamaj is an entrepreneur and the co-founder and CEO of Docere Health, a healthcare technology company dedicated to alleviating the burden on healthcare professionals and enhancing patient care. With a profound passion for improving the healthcare ecosystem, Luka's journey into the venture was fueled by a desire to combat burnout and streamline medical practices. Under his leadership, Docere Health has grown exponentially, serving numerous clinics and healthcare institutions. Luka's commitment to innovation extends beyond Docere Health. His involvement in biotech startups as an angel investor and his recognition as the Young Entrepreneur of the Year in Canada 2023 and Microsoft Competition Winner highlight his dedication to driving positive change in the healthcare and biotechnology sectors.

About Docere Health | (66) Docere Health: Overview | LinkedIn
Docere Health is the perfect AI assistant for physicians. We combat the doctor’s burnout by automating tasks from intake forms to medical referrals and also generating specific personalized situation, diagnosis, and prescriptions for each patient that comes to the clinic based on this parameters: EHR, intake forms, lab tests and up to date academic research. Our focus on precision medicine and the integration of the latest medical research through our LLM provides doctors with valuable insights for each disease, based on global best practices.

Want to Connect?

• Linkedin (Docere)-https://www.linkedin.com/company/docere-app/
• Request a Demo: lukalamaj3@gmail.com

Are you a Doctor?
Join us in redefining healthcare with Docere Health! Experience the future of precision medicine and AI-driven patient care. Streamline your practice, reduce burnout, and enhance patient outcomes. Try Docere Health today and be a part of the healthcare revolution!

Ever pondered where life is taking you? Tune in to our latest chat with Aview on the podcast, where the struggle of choosing the right career path takes center stage. It's all about tough calls, from business dreams versus science reality to the emotional rollercoaster that tags along with big decisions.

Join us as we chat about how Aview is shaking things up in the education world. Imagine learning cutting-edge tech or the science of atoms from experts across the globe without leaving your couch - Aview's making it happen. Then, we sit down with startup champs who share the real deal about entrepreneurship, including all those moments they almost threw in the towel before hitting it big.

We don't stop there – we'll dig into how Aview tackles the tricky issue of making money around the world, turning videos into gold by reaching fresh faces in new places. Plus, get the scoop on the bootstrapped beginnings of Web Translators International and the quirky website that launched a content revolution for creators everywhere.

About Akshay Maharaj  | (66) Akshay Maharaj | LinkedIn
Akshay is the founder of Aview International, a Techstar’s portfolio start-up that enables creators and enterprises to monetize their media to international audiences. He co-founded version 1 of Aview in 2017 while still in high school, surpassing 6 figures in revenue. While in high school, Akshay’s first customers were Logan Paul, Mark Rober, Yes Theory and many others. Akshay then paused his work at Aview to attend Queen’s University, Smith School of Business. After his first year of University, Akshay was a consultant at a boutique management firm where we got to work with some of Canada’s top social media influencers like ASAPScience. This inspired him to launch his second venture, Avybe, a platform that enables content creators to monetize their superfans. In 2021, Avybe closed its seed round, led by Tim Drapers, VC fund in Silicon Valley. Currently, Akshay is continuing his work with Aview growing the company to help take creators globally. 

About Aview | Video Translation & Subtitling - AVIEW (aviewint.com)
Aview is a global content management platform enabling creators and enterprises to monetize their media to international audiences. Our one-click solution offers multi-language translation, voiceover dubbing, global distribution and brand deal opportunities. Due to language barriers, creators are limited to local audiences and cannot monetize from over 70% of social media international users. At Aview, creators integrate their social media channels, select the content and features they want to be completed, and begin unlocking new monetization opportunities.

Want to Connect?

• Website: https://aviewint.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/akshaymaharaj/
• Email: akshay@aviewint.com

Want to Aview?
They are looking for customers who are trying to take their content to new international markets and monetize their international users. This spans from creators, talent management companies and even corporations who are sitting on tons of content. 

Are you tired of struggling to find hair accessories that actually stay in place? In this exciting episode of "Pitch Please," we dive into the world of hair accessories and explore the revolutionary product from Hairstrong. We talk to Hairstrong's CEO and founder, Nicole to learn about her innovative approach to revolutionizing the one-size-fits-all mentality in the hair industry.

Nicole shares her passion for creating adjustable hair accessories that cater to the unique needs of individuals. We explore the variety and functionality of hair accessories available on the market, discovering the different styles and their functional elements. With their adjustable scrunchies and reliable hair accessories, you can say goodbye to the frustration of slipping hair accessories and hello to a confident and reliable style.

Nicole's journey as an entrepreneur is an inspiring one, as she shares her experiences of balancing her entrepreneurial pursuits with the need to pay the bills. We explore the resourcefulness and determination that have driven her to bootstrap her business and pursue her passion for creating innovative hair accessories.

We also touch on the importance of seeking inspiration, embracing cross-pollination, and investing in oneself for business success. Nicole's story serves as a reminder that even in the face of insecurities or fears, it's possible to overcome obstacles and make a meaningful impact in the world.

About Nicole Baranowski  | (24) Nicole HAIRSTRONG Baranowski | LinkedIn
Nicole grew up with a love for fitness and an inclination to work hard for her success. An accumulation of all her life experiences has led her to creating a business that empowers people with long hair to achieve their goals without facing frustrations or distractions that come from long hair maintenance. While running this business, she completed her undergraduate degree in 2019 at Western University with a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology. After that, she went straight into completing a Master of Science at Ivey Business school in International Business - graduating from that in 2021. She used to competitively row and now works out regularly at a CrossFit gym. While running Hairstrong, she also works for another company called Thirdzy as their Director of Digital Marketing. She is passionate about becoming the best version of herself and believes that the job you choose is a part of your life not just something that funds it 

About Hairstrong | The Best Scrunchies For Workouts: Hairstrong
We're elevating the standards of what it means to keep your hair up in a secure and reliable way. Our innovative adjustable band ensures a comfortable all day hold for long hair so you can focus on the task at hand. Trusted by thousands of athletes worldwide to keep hair in place while they move to spend less time distracted and more reaching their goals. No limits, no slips - just effortless updos. 

Want to Connect?

• Website: https://hairstrong.ca
• Instagram: @hairstrongband
• Email: info@hairstrong.ca

Want to Support Hairstrong?
Anyone who would love to collaborate in either selling or promoting the product should reach out to them! This also is a great gift to give someone you know who struggles keeping their hair up.

Are you a startup founder, entrepreneur, innovator, or business leader looking for a game-changing way to raise capital and accelerate your growth? Look no further! In this episode of Pitch Please, we dive deep into the exciting world of investment crowdfunding with Peter-Paul Van Hoeken, the founder and CEO of FrontFundr, Canada's leading equity crowdfunding platform.

Join us as we sit down with Peter-Paul to explore how FrontFundr is revolutionizing the investment landscape, giving everyday people like you and me the opportunity to support startups and growing businesses by providing funding in exchange for equity. Discover how FrontFundr is breaking down barriers and opening doors for a wider investor community, beyond traditional angels and venture capitalists.

Peter-Paul shares his own journey, transitioning from corporate banking to hands-on investing in startups, and how FrontFundr is empowering entrepreneurs to access capital from the public. Learn how FrontFundr's platform connects companies with potential investors, allowing anyone to invest as little as $250 or even less. It's time to unleash your inner dragon and become a part of the exciting world of investment crowdfunding!

But it doesn't stop there. Peter-Paul also discusses the evolving landscape of investment crowdfunding, its potential impact on retail investors, and the challenges and progress in regulating this industry in Canada. Discover how FrontFundr is paving the way for accessible capital raising, fostering inclusivity, and creating a fair and incentivizing fee structure for energy listing platforms.

If you're a startup founder, entrepreneur, innovator, or business leader seeking funding opportunities, this episode is a must-listen. FrontFundr is not only connecting companies with the public but also building new futures and embracing challenges in Canada's vibrant startup ecosystem. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to unlock the power of investment crowdfunding and take your business to new heights.

About Peter-Paul Van Hoeken  | (24) Peter-Paul Van Hoeken | LinkedIn
Peter-Paul Van Hoeken is the Founder and CEO of FrontFundr, a Canadian FinTech company that provides innovative online investment-based funding solutions to start-ups and young ventures in Canada. He has over 15 years of experience in finance, investment management, and business consultancy. Peter-Paul’s entrepreneurial journey began when he moved to Canada from the Netherlands in 2010. After working for the Royal Bank of Scotland, he brought his family to Vancouver, B.C., and spent some time as a consultant for several early-stage and growth companies. He is also an advisor on investment crowdfunding.

About FrontFundr | FrontFundr | Canada's leading equity crowdfunding platform. We connect entrepreneurs with investors, and enable all Canadians to invest in promising companies.
FrontFundr is democratizing the private sector investment model. We empower all Canadians to invest in private companies they believe in while giving entrepreneurs access to the funding they need to grow.

Our investment technology makes it easy for new and seasoned investors to develop a diversified, self-directed portfolio from opportunities that have passed our rigorous due diligence process.

For private companies, FrontFundr unlocks a new capital market, enabling entrepreneurs to communicate with and secure funding from a much larger investment community.

Our vision is to be an inclusive capital market empowering the greater investor community and promising companies to drive innovation and economic growth.

Want to Connect or Learn More?

• https://frontfundr.com 
• instagram.com/frontfundr/
• facebook.com/frontfundr1/
• linkedin.com/company/frontfundr

Are you tired of wasting precious time and energy on car maintenance? Curious to discover a revolutionary mobile automotive service that brings the expertise right to your doorstep? 

Join us on this episode of Pitch Please as we dive into the world of automotive innovation with Dennis Ho, the founder and CEO of Wheel Easy. In this captivating conversation, Dennis takes us on a journey from being an automotive technician to becoming an entrepreneur, disrupting the industry with his mobile automotive service.

Discover how Wheel Easy is simplifying the lives of busy working parents and professionals by offering a convenient solution to car maintenance. No more wasting time at the shop or waiting around for hours. With Wheel Easy, you can book your appointment online, and their certified technicians will come to your house, completing the necessary work right in your driveway.

Listen as Dennis shares the challenges and considerations of operating a unique service vehicle, and how he has adapted to meet the evolving needs of his customers. From tire swapping to oil changes and repairs, Wheel Easy is dedicated to providing exceptional service and customer satisfaction.

We also explore Dennis's aspirations for Wheel Easy, including the potential for franchise opportunities and expanding to new markets beyond London, Ontario. Learn about the team and development efforts behind this seasonal tire swapping business, and the importance of micro validation in starting a successful venture.

Throughout the episode, Dennis's passion for cars and his commitment to making automotive services more accessible shine through. Discover the story behind the name 'Wheel Easy' and how Dennis's love for puns adds a touch of fun to the industry.

Don't miss this inspiring episode of Pitch Please, where we uncover the journey of Wheel Easy and Dennis Ho, and their mission to revolutionize the way we service our cars.

About Dennis Ho  | (59) Dennis Ho | LinkedIn
Dennis Ho is a licensed automotive technician and a 2011 Graduate of Motive Power at Fanshawe College, as well as a 2022 HBA Graduate of Ivey Business School. For 8 years working in the shop as a technician and as department manager, Dennis always prioritized education and a positive experience for customers, and the Wheel Easy experience is a direct result of that passion. Coming from a non-technical background before trade school gives Dennis the unique ability to communicate effectively with both automotive technicians and non-technical folks. Part of the Business Accelerator programs at both Fanshawe College and Western University, Dennis has taken the opportunity to give back to these communities by speaking on industry expert panels and in classes, acting as a mentor with the inSPIRE mentoring program, and hiring co-op students from the Motive Power program from which he graduated. 

About Wheel Easy | Wheel Easy | Mobile Auto & Tire Service | London, ON (wheel-easy.ca)
Wheel Easy is a mobile automotive service provider founded in London Ontario, based on an Ivey Business School New Venture Project in 2021. With a mission of increasing accessibility and transparency of automotive service, our licensed technicians travel to your home or office and complete the services your car needs right onsite with minimal impact on your day, leaving you with more time to spend time with the family or work on other projects.

Want to Connect or Learn More?

• dennis@wheel-easy.ca
• wheel-easy.ca
• instagram.com/wheel_easy_london
• facebook.com/WheelEasyLondon 

Want to Help Wheel Easy?
If you live in London, book online at wheel-easy.ca or feel free to reach out!

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Are you looking for a better way to network and nurture your connections?
-> Visit Wave to create your free digital business card: https://wavecnct.com/

Are you ready to ride the wave of revolutionizing sales and marketing connections? Join us in this episode of "Pitch Please" as we dive deep into the world of Wave, a groundbreaking platform that simplifies and amplifies networking like never before. Witness the power of Wave's unique routing and automation features as it effortlessly connects professionals from diverse industries, bridging the gap between potential clients and businesses. 

Join us as we discuss the challenges and triumphs faced by Wave's founder, who shares the passion and purpose that fueled the creation of this game-changing startup. From dodging roadblocks to overcoming skepticism, we uncover the relentless determination that led to the birth of Wave. Discover how this visionary entrepreneur transformed a simple idea into a platform that empowers individuals to build meaningful connections and propel their businesses forward.

We explore the seamless integration of Wave, revolutionizing sales and marketing connections. Witness firsthand how Wave's innovative features streamline contacts, automate follow-ups, and enhance engagement, giving professionals the competitive edge they need in today's fast-paced business landscape. 

Don't miss out on this captivating episode as we dive deep into the world of Wave, uncovering its transformative impact on the way professionals connect, engage, and thrive. Wave is the ultimate game-changer you've been waiting for. 

About George El-Hage  | (9) George El-Hage | LinkedIn
George is a tech entrepreneur who has disrupted the traditional business card industry by introducing digital business cards. Born and raised in Montreal, Canada, George has always had a passion for finance and studied it extensively in college. However, he soon realized that his true calling was in the tech industry, where he could use his financial expertise to create innovative solutions. Driven by his passion for entrepreneurship and technology, George founded his own company and has worked tirelessly to improve how people connect in the business world. His digital business card platform has gained popularity among professionals who value efficiency, speed, and convenience. George's vision for the future of networking is not limited to digital business cards. He constantly explores new ideas and technologies that can help people connect and collaborate more effectively. 

About Wave Connect | Digital Business Card by Wave Connect (wavecnct.com)
Contactless business cards are a modern way of exchanging contact details with anyone. Wave digital business cards allow professionals to create, customize, and share their branded profiles electronically.

• Contact info: https://app.wavecnct.com/app/profile/george.el-hage

Want to Connect or Learn More?

• Website: https://wavecnct.com/
• Create a free account: https://wavecnct.com/pages/digital-business-card
• Shop NFC business cards: https://wavecnct.com/pages/best-nfc-business-card
• Wave for Teams: https://wavecnct.com/pages/teams

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Are you looking for a better way to network and nurture your connections?
-> Visit Wave to create your free digital business card: https://wavecnct.com/

Are you ready to unlock your full creative potential as a music creator? Join us on this episode of "Pitch Please" as we dive into the world of Staccato, the groundbreaking AI platform revolutionizing the music industry. Discover how Staccato's generative AI tools for music and lyrics are empowering songwriters and music creators to overcome writer's block and spark new creative ideas. Jeff shares his personal experience of facing the challenge of composing a 20-minute piece and how Staccato became the solution he needed.

As we unravel Jeff's background, we learn about his deep-rooted passion for music, starting from his early days of playing guitar to his professional career as a guitarist and keyboardist. We explore how his journey led him to the world of generative AI and the birth of Staccato during his PhD studies.

Throughout the episode, Jeff emphasizes that Staccato is not here to replace human creators but to enhance their abilities. We delve into the unique features of Staccato, such as its music library at your fingertips, ensuring an uninterrupted state of creative flow.

Join us as we uncover the exciting future plans and resources Staccato has in store, and learn how you can get involved and support this groundbreaking innovation. Don't miss out on this captivating episode that explores the intersection of music, composition, and coding, and how Staccato is changing the landscape for music creators.

About Jeff Lupker  | (6) Jeff Lupker, PhD | LinkedIn
Dr. Jeffrey Lupker is the CEO of Staccato, which is a platform of generative AI tools for musicians and lyricists which helps them to remain in an uninterrupted state of creative flow as they create. By allowing users to input a few keywords, lyrics or bars of music, Staccato can suggest ideas on what might come next to help overcome writer’s block and inspire new creative directions. Dr. Lupker holds a PhD from The University of Western Ontario’s Don Wright Faculty of Music where he has also been a contract faculty member in the Music Research and Composition department. Beyond Staccato and his research, Dr. Lupker is an active performer on primarily guitar and keyboards and has played across Canada and USA with singers such as Juno Winner and Canada/America’s Got Talent finalist Stacey Kay and Canada’s Drag Race Winner Priyanka. 

About Staccato | Staccato | Create Your Best Music with Generative AI Tools for Music & Lyrics
Staccato is a platform of generative AI tools for music and lyrics. Staccato helps songwriters and music creators overcome writer's block & spark new creative ideas. It’s like a music library or database at your fingertips so you can remain in an uninterrupted state of creative flow. The most integral part is our musician-first approach and that we never want to replace the human creator with AI but rather want to enhance their abilities and the way they create music. 

Want to Connect or Learn More?

• www.staccato.ai 
• Instagram: @staccato.ai
• Twitter: @staccato_ai

Want to Help?
Come write your next hit with Staccato. Learn how at www.staccato.ai

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Are you looking for a better way to network and nurture your connections?
-> Visit Wave to create your free digital business card: https://wavecnct.com/