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Do you feel like you’re drowning in to-dos, but real results keep slipping out of reach? What if the secret to breakthrough productivity isn’t doing more, it’s doing more of what matters most? In this gripping Leaders of Tomorrow collage episode, Chris Thomson curates frontline wisdom from high-achieving alumni and coaches like Zack Kembar, Landon Roberts, Jadan Hauser , Jakob Graham , Paul Prevost, Aris Lloshi, Jamie-Lee Bongard, Jamie Lee Bongard, and Amer Abu Shakra . They reveal the rituals, mindsets, and non-negotiable standards powering multi-six-figure businesses and top academic performance even with full plates and real-world distractions. Whether you’re a student, entrepreneur, or leader hungry for edge, this episode delivers the urgent playbook for protecting your priorities, conquering procrastination, and building a life you love. Tune in now because letting time slip away is no longer an option, and nobody else will set your standards for you. Timestamped Highlights00:00 – The moment a “silly” planner started running Zack Kembar’s life (and why he never looked back)02:17 – Amer Abu Shakra ’s shocking self-imposed “rules” that unlocked business and school success03:12 – Jadan Hauser on crushing school, business, and balance all at once—by scheduling fun last04:09 – Jakob Graham confesses to “half-assing” until time discipline changed every aspect of life05:13 – Paul Prevost explains why the most overwhelmed students often win big—if they manage it right06:04 – Landon Roberts shares the performance “cheat code” most entrepreneurs ignore08:19 – Aris Lloshi breaks down the art of strict scheduling (and why weekends are his secret weapon)09:59 – Jamie-Lee Bongard’s family-first calendar (and how it sets her up for unstoppable momentum) About the GuestsAmer Abu Shakra – Co-founder of Contracting.com, Amer built a multimillion-dollar business through resilience, vision, and record-breaking performance early in his career. | Episode 309: The Six Rules of Success that Helped me Break the All-Time Sales Record at Student Works Jadan Hauser – Standout second-year operator in the Student Works Management Program, Jadan is known for his disciplined structure, self-leadership, and high performance as a young entrepreneur. | Episode 410: How to Master Time Management for Entrepreneurial Success Jakob Graham – Three-year veteran of the Student Works Management Program and incoming coach, Jakob focuses on leadership, humility, and growth through real-world experience. | Episode 440 | Why You Don’t Need to Be Ready to Start Leading Paul Prevost – Student Works Management Program participant who discovered a passion for leadership and coaching through building his own business. | Episode 432 | How to Transform Uncertainty into Business Success Aris Lloshi – Student Works operator who built a $460K business as a student and is preparing to coach the next generation of entrepreneurs. | Episode 434 | How to Build a $460K Business as a Student Landon Roberts – Former varsity athlete and standout Student Works participant, Landon applies discipline, resilience, and high-performance habits to entrepreneurship. | Episode 416 | How to Turn Athletic Discipline into Entrepreneurial Success Zack Kembar – Student Works alumnus and global finance professional, Zack brings experience in resilience, structure, and high-performance environments. | Episode 411 | How to Develop Resilience in a Competitive Industry Jamie Lee Bongard – Owner of three Keller Williams franchises, Jamie integrates structured time blocking, clear priorities, and intentional family time into her leadership approach. | Episode 403 | How a 17-Year-Old’s Vision Turned Into a Billion-Dollar Legacy Important LinksConnect with Chris: Website | LinkedInLearn more about the Student Works Management ProgramApply to be an Owner / Operator in the Management ProgramLooking for a fun job this summer? Summer Job OpportunitiesHear more Alumni Success Stories The Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast is an original production by Chris Thomson. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

What if mastering a few simple habits could transform your life, multiply your freedom, and let you have it all? This episode features an electrifying conversation between Chris Thomson and Dylan Puchniak, a record-breaking Student Works alum who left engineering for real estate and now dominates both sides of the Ottawa-Gatineau market. Discover why finishing what you start is just the beginning, and how building systems, owning your time, and relentless personal development unlock extraordinary results. Whether you’re craving more money, meaning, or true life design, Dylan’s journey reveals the invisible levers top performers pull and the silent mistakes that stall even the brightest stars. Listen now or risk missing the mindset shift and tactical edge that turn ordinary routines into lifelong advantage. This is your exclusive chance to hear proven, battle-tested strategies not taught anywhere else. Timestamped Highlights[00:01:21] – The moment Dylan’s “simple” life vision blew wide open[00:05:33] – Why student works “ruined” Dylan and set him free[00:08:53] – Skydiving, Bali, and the real cost of your dreams[00:10:34] – How money turned into the ultimate lever for freedom[00:12:27] – Turning coffee chats into a game-changing new career[00:15:53] – The “commission breath” that kills deals and destroys trust[00:23:25] – How a year off created Dylan’s biggest regret (and his comeback)[00:30:07] – The shocking power of one 2-hour daily habit About the GuestDylan Puchniak is a top-producing Realtor based in Ottawa and Gatineau, licensed in both Ontario and Quebec, and known for setting records since his days at Student Works. He is recognized for his white-glove service, award-winning performance, and personal brand of leadership that fuses elite systems with human-first relationships. Dylan also leads a real estate photography and videography business, and is a passionate sports advocate building connections with the Ottawa Senators. 🔗 LinkedIn | Website | Facebook Resources & Links MentionedRoyal LePageRich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert KiyosakiDISC assessmentDan Sullivan’s Strategic CoachOttawa SenatorsQuebec real estate regulationsKolbe AssessmentLinkedIn Learning Important LinksConnect with Chris: Website | LinkedInLearn more about the Student Works Management ProgramApply to be an Owner / Operator in the Management ProgramLooking for a fun job this summer? Summer Job OpportunitiesHear more Alumni Success Stories The Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast is an original production by Chris Thomson. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Ever wondered how some leaders rise from devastating beginnings to shatter records and inspire others? This episode is a full-access pass into the life and mindset of Ashley Ayles, a Student Works Management Program operator from Fredericton, who went from a turbulent childhood to boldly aiming for a million-dollar business, all while in university. Host Chris Thomson peels back the layers on Ashley’s truly rare transformation: how family trauma, scarcity, and self-doubt fueled her drive, and the surprising systems and habits that turned a struggling start into explosive growth. If you crave real talk on doing hard things, overcoming failure, and building unshakable confidence, listen now. Unlock today’s episode to avoid years of silent struggle, discover proven tools for accelerating your leadership journey, and hear an exclusive blueprint you simply won’t find anywhere else. Timestamped Highlights[00:00:00] – From zero experience to instant sales obsession: Ashley’s surprising favorite part of business[00:04:00] – Surviving abuse and low income: The real pain behind early grit[00:08:46] – “Don’t put old Ashley in a corner”: Accepting the past, shifting the present[00:11:08] – Massive hiring fails: Settling for mediocrity and what it cost[00:16:15] – Chaos cured: The small systems that changed everything[00:17:09] – The $10K mistake that nearly blew it all—emotions vs. execution[00:24:25] – What really drives you to smash goals long after the finish line?[00:27:07] – Scaling up: Inside the bold plan for a million-dollar team About the GuestAshley Ayles is a Student Works Management Program operator based in Fredericton, NB, recognized for achieving nearly $300,000 in business sales in her rookie season while balancing full-time classes. She’s now on a mission to build a million-dollar enterprise, all rooted in personal transformation, high-trust recruiting, and empowering other young leaders to rise. Known for real talk, unstoppable drive, and her bold vision for what’s possible, Ashley is rapidly becoming a standout figure in the next generation of Canadian entrepreneurs. 🔗 LinkedIn | Website | Facebook | Instagram Resources & Links MentionedJulia MurphySICO StainLinkedIn LearningJT (January Training)Airbnb Important LinksConnect with Chris: Website | LinkedInLearn more about the Student Works Management ProgramApply to be an Owner / Operator in the Management ProgramLooking for a fun job this summer? Summer Job OpportunitiesHear more Alumni Success Stories The Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast is an original production by Chris Thomson. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Have you ever felt like your biggest obstacle is your own uncertainty about the future? In this electric conversation, Chris Thomson welcomes powerhouse alum Chad Humphrey, a history grad who became a national leader in medical device sales after nearly walking away from his dreams as a young entrepreneur. Chad unpacks hard-won truths about relentless resilience, life-changing mentorship, and the high-stakes lessons only learned on the edge of failure. From selling candy bars to orchestrating multi-million dollar operating room builds, his story proves you don’t need a linear path to build a radically successful career. Listen now so you don’t waste another year feeling stuck. Discover how elite leaders transform setbacks into unstoppable momentum and why this episode reveals battle-tested strategies you won’t hear anywhere else. The best opportunities are hidden in the moves most people fear. Seize them today. Timestamped Highlights09:08 – The “pack it in” moment and the gut-punch advice that changed everything13:02 – Cold-calling in the dark: When success depends on pure grit14:39 – Authentic sales secrets: Why being yourself creates high-value impact19:26 – Inside the Med Device Interview Gauntlet and the surprise career pivot22:13 – “What the bleep are you doing?” How to take huge risks (and win respect)28:16 – From hard hats to boardrooms: Radical reinvention at every career stage34:34 – The painful failures that haunt you and why they make you irreplaceable41:09 – Crisis ready: The preparation habit elite leaders never skip About the GuestChad Humphrey is the National Sales & Application Specialist for Digital Health Solution at Getinge, and a senior leader in the medical device space with two decades in sales, operating room design, and digital health transformation. After launching his career as a Student Works operator, Chad built his expertise at global giants like Coca-Cola, Mars Wrigley, Medtronic, and Stryker. He is recognized for his transformative impact on surgical technology solutions across Canada and his commitment to people-first leadership and mentorship. 🔗 LinkedIn Resources & Links MentionedCoca-ColaMars WrigleyTycoMedtronicStrykerKarl StorzGetinge Important LinksConnect with Chris: Website | LinkedInLearn more about the Student Works Management ProgramApply to be an Owner / Operator in the Management ProgramLooking for a fun job this summer? Summer Job OpportunitiesHear more Alumni Success Stories The Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast is an original production by Chris Thomson. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

What if your biggest growth breakthrough is just one bold decision away? In this exclusive episode, Chris Thomson sits down with 2024’s top StudentWorks rookies, Christian Corben and Mikhail Lopez, to uncover the hidden habits, resilience rituals, and mindset strategies that propelled them to nearly $50K in sales before winter’s end. These up-and-coming leaders reveal the real obstacles—internal and external—that threaten every ambitious entrepreneur and share the surprising stories you won’t hear in any business class. If you want to shortcut years of struggle, avoid rookie burnout, and tap into the proven methods driving runaway success, this episode is your playbook. Listen now before you settle for mediocrity—because these insights are field-tested, battle-proven, and only revealed here. Timestamped Highlights[00:05:12] – The unexpected truth about “starting disorganized” and leveling up anyway[00:08:00] – Why the most driven rookies work for the best mentors (and how they get hired!)[00:13:31] – Shocking: How a high school rookie booked nearly $300K, against all odds[00:16:16] – When ambition meets time limits: The silent killer no one sees coming[00:22:24] – The story of a dog attack, lost weekend, and an unbreakable mindset[00:28:20] – The little-known books and podcasts that banished wantrepreneur thinking[00:37:30] – Uncommon networking: Why your peer group is your secret weapon[00:45:55] – The 7-word morning mantra fueling nonstop rookie victories About the GuestChristian Corben is a first-year Laurier student and the standout top rookie window cleaning operator at StudentWorks Management Program, distinguished for booking nearly $300K in high school. Known for his resilience, leadership maturity, and ability to rally strong teams, Christian embodies the future of Canadian entrepreneurship. 🔗 LinkedIn Mikhail Lopez is a top rookie painting operator at StudentWorks based in Montreal, recognized for his results-driven approach, his prior experience with powerhouse alumni like Lucas Legados and Aris Lloshi, and his commitment to continual personal growth. Mikhail is a rising force in young leadership circles. 🔗 Facebook Resources & Links MentionedJim Collins (author)Ego Is the Enemy by Ryan Holiday (book)Beyond the Hammer (book)The Way of the Superior Man (book)Whoop (wearable for recovery tracking)LinkedIn LearningIndeed (job platform)Laurier University Important LinksConnect with Chris: Website | LinkedInLearn more about the Student Works Management ProgramApply to be an Owner / Operator in the Management ProgramLooking for a fun job this summer? Summer Job OpportunitiesHear more Alumni Success Stories The Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast is an original production by Chris Thomson. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

What truly separates the leaders who inspire and elevate from those who simply manage? Are you ready for the kind of wisdom that makes uncomfortable ownership, integrity, and humility not just buzzwords, but daily practices that build winning teams? In this exclusive Leadership Collage episode, host Chris Thomson brings together the most impactful moments from alumni and operator conversations, featuring Guy Metcalfe, Amer Abu Shakra, Chris Caruso, Colby Wilson, Jaden Hauser, Jamie Lee Bongard, Chris O'Rourke, and Jadan Hauser. Through their experiences, you’ll uncover what real leadership looks like: from leading by example in snowstorms and pizza run rituals, to building cultures of trust, hungry ambition, and day-to-day accountability. Listen now because leaders aren’t born. They’re built from action. If you want a proven shortcut to avoid costly mistakes, accelerate your growth, and foster a team that wins together, this collage gives you exclusive insights not found anywhere else. The urgency is real: don’t let your leadership journey plateau before you discover these powerful habits. Timestamped Highlights00:00 – What happens when you’re truly willing to do anything you ask of your team?00:57 – The critical difference between leadership theory and uncomfortable ownership in practice02:04 – Why trusting your team beyond your comfort zone is the ultimate test of integrity03:20 – The surprising culture-building tactics that turn crews into loyal powerhouses05:16 – “Ownership changes everything”—how accountability transforms business results06:40 – Organizational systems and infrastructure: the hidden edge for young leaders07:20 – The three traits that help tomorrow’s leaders attract—and keep—world-class teams09:25 – Pizza, ping pong, and evening rituals: how traditions elevate team connection and spirit12:10 – When humility backfires: lessons learned the hard way in pursuit of team greatness13:31 – The drive to be better every single day—and why unstoppable progress beats talent About the GuestAmer Abu Shakra – Co-founder of Contracting.com, a multi-million dollar business built in his twenties, Amer exemplifies building culture through integrity, trust, and ownership. | Episode 309: The Six Rules of Success that Helped me Break the All-Time Sales Record at Student Works Chris Caruso – Operator and coach in the field, Chris is dedicated to building positive team cultures and achieving ambitious business milestones. | Episode 390: How to Break Records and Push Your Limits Colby Wilson – Field operator and coach, Colby is known for his example-based leadership, focus on integrity, and commitment to personal and professional growth. | Episode 438: How To Turn Failure into a $275K Comeback Will Malouf – Director at Valsoft, Will brings leadership perspective and business acumen to the discussion. | Episode 400: How to Master Organization for Professional Success Guy Metcalfe – Former Global Chairman and Global Head of Real Estate, Guy advocates for leading by example and fostering team cohesion through shared experiences. | Episode 398: Mastering Stress to Fuel Your Growth Journey Jamie Lee Bongard – Owner of three Keller Williams franchises, Jamie highlights humility, drive, and people-centered leadership as keys to success. | Episode 350: Path to Personal Growth and Business Success Chris O’Rourke – Former Chief Revenue Officer of Zuess, Chris focuses on humility, organizational clarity, and strong foundational leadership habits. | Episode 397: From Student Works to Building a Legacy of Success Jadan Hauser – Veteran operator, Jadan champions daily self-improvement, organization, and consistent action as the foundation of strong leadership. | Episode 410: How to Master Time Management for Entrepreneurial Success Important LinksConnect with Chris: Website | LinkedInLearn more about the Student Works Management ProgramApply to be an Owner / Operator in the Management ProgramLooking for a fun job this summer? Summer Job OpportunitiesHear more Alumni Success Stories The Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast is an original production by Chris Thomson. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Ever feel like the success you crave is just out of reach, blocked by self-doubt or a lack of clarity? This exclusive episode features Eric Fullerton, a lightning-fast riser who went from average student to Adobe’s youngest Enterprise Account Director in New York by harnessing failure, radical ownership, and a playbook he first tested as a Student Works operator. Host Chris Thomson dives deep with Eric on beating impostor syndrome, translating “victim” moments into power moves, and why real leaders fall in love with process instead of status. Whether you’re aiming for a spotlight role or just searching for your next big break, their conversation uncovers the mindset and habits you need right now. Stop hoping for a breakthrough, and learn what high-performers actually do. Listen now, because inaction kills more dreams than failing ever could—and these real-world strategies aren’t shared anywhere else. Timestamped Highlights[00:01:27] – “Somehow I got in the wrong meeting room…” Technology fails, courage doesn’t[00:06:10] – The surprising truth behind doing well in school (and why it left Eric unfulfilled)[00:09:07] – Clipboards, strange calls, and accidental life-changing decisions[00:10:26] – How to wield humility as a superpower and overcome imposter syndrome[00:14:22] – From biochemistry to boardrooms: When parents “know you” better than you do[00:17:05] – The underlying mindset that separates top earners from spectators[00:22:10] – When your lifelong dream shatters—turn pain into your next victory[00:28:16] – How daily habits rooted in ‘boring basics’ create thrilling revenue results[00:37:07] – Out-preparing your age: Secret weapons for winning the room and the deal[00:41:09] – The devastating cost of overthinking mistakes and the “helpful test” that fixed it[00:52:05] – The #1 trait the next generation of leaders must practice now About the GuestEric Fullerton is the Enterprise Account Director for Adobe in New York, leading high-impact digital transformation projects with C-suite leaders across public sector and government. A Student Works Management Program alum and former top performer at Canada Life, Eric is recognized for hitting 200%+ sales quotas year after year while championing authentic leadership, resilience, and continuous personal growth. 🔗 LinkedIn | Website Resources & Links MentionedCanada LifeSmith School of Business, Queen’s UniversityLinkedIn LearningSmith Certificate in Business Important LinksConnect with Chris: Website | LinkedInLearn more about the Student Works Management ProgramApply to be an Owner / Operator in the Management ProgramLooking for a fun job this summer? Summer Job OpportunitiesHear more Alumni Success Stories The Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast is an original production by Chris Thomson. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

What would it feel like to finally break through your limits and know for certain you belonged at the top? In this energizing episode, Chris Thomson welcomes star operator Mathieu Champagne, fresh off scaling his student enterprise from rookie status to a high-performing, multi-hundred-thousand-dollar juggernaut. Their no-holds-barred conversation unpacks the REAL story behind radical growth: why betting on yourself is terrifying (and thrilling), how to develop the mindset to crush dry spells, the magic of team culture, and practical systems for building the discipline serious leaders need. If you’re tired of ordinary advice or stuck at good-enough, tune in now. You’ll discover proven moves to double your results, swerve rookie traps, and ignite a sense of purpose that makes relentless work feel like victory not burnout. Don’t risk plateauing. For real results, listen now before your spot is gone. Timestamped Highlights[00:00:36] – The competitive streak that lit the fire— and why betting on yourself unlocks more than degrees[00:03:23] – Hard-won lessons from painting “inside the trenches”—what rookies always miss[00:08:03] – $0 weeks, call reluctance, and the make-or-break moment that triggered a 6-figure breakthrough[00:12:37] – The Montreal January grind: when -25°C builds confidence, not frostbite[00:16:37] – The real difference between a solo hustler and a true director (it’s not what you think)[00:22:28] – Culture, connection, and the Quebec operator movement—secrets to unbreakable team unity[00:29:03] – “I was never organized”—why mapping your days and habits is a shocking superpower[00:36:10] – The conversation tactic every operator dreads, but top leaders master for growth About the GuestMathieu Champagne is a top-performing Student Works Management Program operator based in Montreal, Quebec. Known for doubling his business year-over-year and building powerhouse teams, he’s established himself as a coach, mentor, and role model for emerging leaders. With an HEC business background and a talent for inspiring others, Mathieu is setting records in operational excellence, team leadership, and sales growth within Canada’s most competitive young entrepreneur ecosystem. 🔗 LinkedIn Resources & Links MentionedHEC MontréalBook: Fierce Conversations by Susan ScottLSI Conflict Management trainingQuebec Sur La Map (program culture)Student Works Mexico Trip Important LinksConnect with Chris: Website | LinkedInLearn more about the Student Works Management ProgramApply to be an Owner / Operator in the Management ProgramLooking for a fun job this summer? Summer Job OpportunitiesHear more Alumni Success Stories The Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast is an original production by Chris Thomson. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Ever wonder what separates a thriving leader from the crowd, especially when the stakes are sky-high? In this riveting episode, Chris Thomson sits down with Darryl Leroy, a corporate trailblazer who rose from small-town roots and student jobs to powerhouse roles at P&G, Maple Leaf Foods, and high-impact consulting. Together, they unveil the real-life playbooks, risks, and victories behind building a standout career, plus the invisible skills every next-gen leader must master. Get the raw truth on how setbacks, relentless learning, and courageous ownership transform not only your path, but your impact. Listen now. Miss this, and you risk blindly repeating the mistakes that hold ambitious leaders back. The tools and insights inside this episode are proven, real, and not found in any textbook… Catch them here, first. Timestamped Highlights[00:01:24] – What life in a small town and a 40-hour week taught Darryl before business even began[00:03:20] – The “failure” that nearly derailed Darryl’s future and how one coaching conversation flipped the script[00:06:26] – Why learning from adversity and firing employees shaped his entire management style[00:10:04] – The secret way Student Works made him irresistible to Fortune 500 recruiters[00:14:11] – Proven practices for inspiring and energizing world-class teams inside P&G[00:24:08] – When a single decision cost millions, inside Darryl’s biggest career gut punch[00:34:39] – The mindset shift that let Darryl turn every setback into a springboard[00:41:24] – Why letting go (but not burning out) is the superpower all leaders need now[00:50:01] – One future-proof habit you MUST build to thrive in a world of rapid change About the GuestDarryl Leroy is a Canadian executive mentor, advisor, and former senior leader with two decades at Procter & Gamble, where he held multiple director and VP-level roles managing multi-million dollar portfolios. He later brought this expertise to Maple Leaf Foods as a national sales team lead and spent years consulting for fast-growth entrepreneurs and CPG startups. Known for his energizing leadership style, deep operational insight, and championing of relentless learning, Darryl’s impact reaches across the top tiers of Canadian business and beyond. 🔗 LinkedIn Resources & Links MentionedProcter & Gamble (P&G)Maple Leaf Foods5E Model for Leadership DevelopmentSAPThe Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay StanierActualize Club Performance CoachingSteve Marker Important LinksConnect with Chris: Website | LinkedInLearn more about the Student Works Management ProgramApply to be an Owner / Operator in the Management ProgramLooking for a fun job this summer? Summer Job OpportunitiesHear more Alumni Success Stories The Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast is an original production by Chris Thomson. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Do you ever wonder if you’re holding yourself back just because you haven’t found your spark yet? In this revealing conversation, Chris Thomson sits down with Charles Bédard, the University of Ottawa student who turned a “lazy worker” mentality into a $200,000+ business breakthrough. Together, they explore how ruthless self-reflection, competitive drive, and a surprising ability to make work fun fueled Charles’s transformation from solo grinder to thriving team leader. Discover how overcoming fear, systemizing chaos, and loving hard conversations changed everything. Listen now because missing this episode means staying stuck when you could be leveling up fast. Unlock exclusive insights into the real skills, mindsets, and habits marking the next generation of leaders. These are proven strategies you won’t find anywhere else. Don’t wait. Timestamped Highlights[00:01:01] – “I was the lazy worker, but one day I’ll change… not today.”[00:03:09] – The moment “Why Not Me?” shifted to “I Am For This”[00:04:07] – Building culture: why people begged to join Charles’s team[00:06:08] – The brutal lesson of being ‘too nice’ and how it nearly cost his standards[00:09:11] – Surprising skill: mastering 8 hours of straight conversation without burnout[00:10:42] – How loving the process made hard work feel effortless[00:13:37] – Using motivation (not just discipline) to turn dreaded tasks into enjoyable wins[00:22:54] – The thrill of coaching others to their first sales—and why that meant more than his own victories About the GuestCharles Bédard is a second-year operator with the Student Works Management Program and a business student at the University of Ottawa. Known for his rapid transformation from competitive-but-unmotivated rookie to top-performing team leader, Charles broke $200,000 in sales his first year and now mentors a growing team. His story is proof that anyone can unlock scalable leadership and real joy at work through relentless self-improvement and a service-driven mindset. 🔗 LinkedIn Resources & Links MentionedFierce Conversations by Susan ScottLSI Conflict ManagementLinkedIn LearningJason Shuttleworth, $300M Plastics BusinessWilfrid Laurier University Important LinksConnect with Chris: Website | LinkedInLearn more about the Student Works Management ProgramApply to be an Owner / Operator in the Management ProgramLooking for a fun job this summer? Summer Job OpportunitiesHear more Alumni Success Stories The Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast is an original production by Chris Thomson. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Do you ever wonder what truly separates successful business owners from the pack? What hidden habits, tough pivots, and real-life lessons matter in the long run? In this energizing episode, Chris Thomson sits down with Ted Duncan, an accomplished real estate leader and Student Works Management Program alum, whose career took him everywhere from high-stakes sailing in Muskoka to leading top-performing teams and even chasing his acting dreams in New York. Together, they reveal proven systems, the discipline myth most young leaders get wrong, and what it really takes to create success worth loving plus the unexpected tools Ted still uses from his earliest entrepreneurship days. If you’re hungry to skip regret, build real impact, and become the kind of leader people rave about, listen right now. Don’t wait for perfect. You’ll miss secrets you can’t find anywhere else. Timestamped Highlights[00:00:21] – From motorboat newspapers to sailboats: Ted’s unexpected origin story[00:01:09] – Getting up at 4:30 AM… is this how ambition feels before business?[00:02:04] – A “not-salesy” mentor sparks Ted’s real entrepreneurial leap[00:03:12] – The sales technique that transformed Ted’s life (use it in any field)[00:05:44] – What most young operators miss about systems and how it costs you[00:09:53] – “Wish I’d done it again”—Why experience multiplies results[00:14:15] – From real estate to acting in NYC: surprising career pivots, customer skills[00:18:07] – Why acting wasn’t just a wild detour, but a key self-discovery[00:24:49] – The honest truth: why failure usually points in the mirror[00:29:36] – How Ted built lasting habits, resilience, and real rewards About the GuestTed Duncan is a top-performing real estate agent in Washington D.C., celebrated for leading high-volume, high-impact teams and guiding clients through life-changing home purchases. A longtime Student Works Management Program alum, Ted’s journey spans business launches, district management, entrepreneurship, and seven years as a working actor in New York, making him a powerful mentor for ambitious young leaders. 🔗 Website Resources & Links MentionedAtomic Habits by James ClearNet Promoter Score (Bain & Company)Rick Eastwood (entrepreneur, Student Works alum)Chris Coutinho (CEO, Paystar Logistics)Dan Sullivan, Strategic CoachNeil Bradley (Student Works founder) Important LinksConnect with Chris: Website | LinkedInLearn more about the Student Works Management ProgramApply to be an Owner / Operator in the Management ProgramLooking for a fun job this summer? Summer Job OpportunitiesHear more Alumni Success Stories The Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast is an original production by Chris Thomson. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Ever wonder why health feels like a losing battle for high achievers even when you “know what to do”? If you’re tired of the Monday restarts, toxic self-criticism, and feeling like your energy never matches your ambition, this episode is your permission slip to break the cycle and reclaim your power. Chris Thompson welcomes health and mindset coach Steph Kawaja, founder of She’s Better Than Ever, to reveal the surprising psychology and revolutionary frameworks behind creating sustainable healthy habits without all-or-nothing thinking or burnout. From healing your relationship with food to unlocking career-changing energy through unshakable routines, discover why the Future Ready Framework is helping leaders (and their teams) perform at their best, in and out of the gym. Listen now or risk repeating another year of the same-old struggles. Don’t wait! These exclusive mindset and habit shifts aren’t found in any generic fitness guide. This episode is your unfair advantage to lead, love, and live your best. Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – What is the “Future Ready Framework,” and why healing beats hustle for high achievers?[00:08:39] – Why do so many ambitious women (and men) secretly struggle with food and confidence?[00:12:49] – High performers and the hidden cost of being too hard on yourself[00:17:20] – How your health is quietly derailing your career performance—and how to fix it[00:22:35] – Plan A, Plan B: The secret to staying consistent (even when life hits)[00:29:31] – Why doing “more” isn’t always better—and trusting the power of small, relentless wins[00:34:10] – The 3 (surprisingly simple) non-negotiable habits every hustler needs[00:44:43] – What would be possible—in business, life, and love—if you truly trusted yourself? About the GuestStephany Kawaja is the founder and lead coach of She’s Better Than Ever, a results-driven program helping ambitious women (and men) heal their relationship with food, master sustainable routines, and achieve peak health without sacrificing career success. Drawing on her experience as a top Student Works alum and sales leader, Steph’s Future Ready Framework has transformed 100+ lives by unraveling perfectionism, toxic diet culture, and burnout cycles. 🔗 LinkedIn | Website Resources & Links MentionedShe’s Better Than Ever (Steph Kawaja’s program)Atomic Habits by James ClearSelf-Compassion by Dr. Kristin NeffWhoop Fitness TrackerOura RingMatthew Walker (Sleep Scientist)Rotman School of Management Important LinksConnect with Chris: Website | LinkedInLearn more about the Student Works Management ProgramApply to be an Owner / Operator in the Management ProgramLooking for a fun job this summer? Summer Job OpportunitiesHear more Alumni Success Stories The Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast is an original production by Chris Thomson. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

What if the ONLY thing standing between you and extraordinary success is how you leverage your values and your time? Whether you dream of leading high-impact teams, building a thriving business, or setting yourself apart as a transformative entrepreneur, this episode is your inside pass to leadership mastery. Chris Thompson welcomes back talent optimization expert Rob Friday, live and unscripted. They break down the true ROI of writing books and core values, unveil “buying back your time” strategies, and reveal how predictive tools fuel massive growth and retention across businesses and sports teams. If you want actionable tools to smash your limits, boost retention, and win with a team of A-players, this conversation is your unfair advantage. Don’t wait for “one day.” Listen now, because the leaders who act today are the ones tomorrow admires, and this episode unlocks insights few ever hear straight from Canada’s proven leadership trenches. Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – Why “Happy, Not Satisfied” Is the Mindset That Sets Elite Leaders Apart[00:01:44] – Rob Friday’s whirlwind 21% growth, marrying in France, and building family and business resilience[00:03:33] – Unlocking Freedom: How “Buy Back Your Time” Turns Stress Into Strategic Focus[00:06:29] – Painful Truths: Why Writing a Book Is the Ultimate Entrepreneur’s Calling Card[00:10:10] – Talent Optimizer Revealed—The Proven Blueprint for Attracting and Keeping A+ Team Members[00:18:36] – Scare the Wrong People Away: How Radical Clarity in Values Creates Great Teams[00:24:12] – NHL Teams, Predictive Index, and the Art of Placing Winners in Their Sweet Spot[00:41:31] – Flywheels, Net Promoter Scores, and the Secret Sauce That Keeps Alumni Raving Long After Graduation About the GuestRob Friday is the Managing Principal of Predictive Success and author of “Talent Optimizer” and the forthcoming “The Core Value Code.” Known for pioneering data-driven hiring and strategizing with Fortune 500 clients (and Stanley Cup-winning coaches), Rob specializes in unlocking the hidden levers that drive extraordinary performance, alignment, and growth. He is also a student works alumnus who has become an influential force in leadership development worldwide. 🔗 LinkedIn | LinkTree Resources & Links MentionedTalent Optimizer by Rob FridayThe Core Value Code (Up-and-coming book by Rob Friday) Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell Good to Great by Jim Collins Predictive Index (Talent optimization assessment tool) Ray Dalio’s Principles Lighthouse (AI HR Tech Startup, Board Mention by Rob) Stanley Cup / NHL Talent Optimization Case Study Important LinksConnect with Chris: Website | LinkedInLearn more about the Student Works Management ProgramApply to be an Owner / Operator in the Management ProgramLooking for a fun job this summer? Summer Job OpportunitiesHear more Alumni Success Stories The Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast is an original production by Chris Thomson. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

Are you still trying to do everything alone, risking burnout and missing your true potential? This episode features Kaleb O'Very, the three-time “Operator of the Year” who scaled his student business to unprecedented heights, and Chris Thompson, Student Works Management Program Head Coach. You’ll hear Kaleb’s raw and inspiring journey from self-doubt and bad habits to elite leadership and record-breaking business growth. Together, they reveal how building a winning team, mastering the art of integrity, and leveraging habit-breaking techniques can propel any young entrepreneur toward industry-defining results. If you want to avoid years of struggle and discover what it really takes to lead a high-performing team, this episode is your unfair advantage. Listen now before everyone else catches up. These lessons might just be the missing blueprint to your next breakthrough. Timestamped Highlights[00:00] – Why trying to do it all nearly killed Kaleb’s growth (and what triggered a 300% leap)[00:04:17] – From follower to leader: The surprising catalyst that flipped Kaleb’s mindset[00:07:17] – Mistakes most young entrepreneurs make hiring and leading their first team[00:08:42] – The unexpected business impact of personal habits (sleep, nutrition, mindset)[00:13:15] – How true delegation and coaching unlocked six-figure results for Kaleb’s team[00:16:27] – “Restoring integrity”: The proven method for fixing breakdowns and building trust[00:21:02] – The uncommon team ritual behind this year’s Mexico-bound and President’s Club superstars[00:34:32] – Daily commitments and Kaleb’s single best tip for energizing and bonding a winning team About the GuestKaleb O’Very is a multi-year “Operator of the Year” with the Student Works Management Program who shattered regional business records by leading his team from $120K to over $1.4M. In 2023, he managed and coached five rookie operators to collective President’s Club and Mexico trip success, embodying what next-level delegation and leadership can achieve. Known for his relentless grit, fierce team-building, and the ability to turn high-pressure opportunities into thriving growth engines for all involved. 🔗 LinkedIn Resources & Links MentionedABR – Always Be Recruiting strategyLinkedIn Learning Important LinksConnect with Chris: Website | LinkedInLearn more about the Student Works Management ProgramApply to be an Owner / Operator in the Management ProgramLooking for a fun job this summer? Summer Job OpportunitiesHear more Alumni Success Stories The Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast is an original production by Chris Thomson. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.

In this end-of-year solo episode, Chris Thomson reflects on one of the most transformational chapters in the history of Student Works. From smashing revenue records to reinventing the company’s systems, 2025 marked massive progress for the team and set the stage for an even stronger 2026. Chris walks through the company’s growth, the evolution of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, breakthroughs in technology (including the full rebuild of SIMON), increases in operator success metrics, and the continued expansion of fundraising efforts for MS. He also shares a personal milestone: becoming a grandfather and redefining his vision for the future. If you want a snapshot of what makes this community powerful…and what’s coming next…this is the episode to hear. Timestamped Highlights[00:00:00] – The power of a competitive and cooperative culture [00:01:10] – Why recognizing progress is a leadership best practice [00:02:00] – From $10M to $43M: how Student Works accelerated after the pandemic [00:03:15] – Seven years, 70,000 downloads: the evolution of the podcast [00:03:40] – Shoutout to Podcast Your Brand for bringing the show to life [00:04:45] – “I’m a proud grandfather”: welcoming Ella Rae Manje [00:05:20] – New record averages in both painting and window cleaning [00:06:30] – Eight million-dollar painting operators…and the first million-dollar window cleaner [00:07:00] – $2.3M raised for MS: a legacy of impact [00:08:00] – Five years of system building…and now a full-scale cleanup [00:09:00] – Introducing SIMON 3.0: a complete rebuild of the company CRM [00:12:50] – New estimating module + automated profitability safeguards [00:14:13] – Daily production plans generated instantly inside SIMON [00:14:50] – Major upgrades to safety, compliance, and team training [00:18:00] – Final recruitment window: why December is the deadline [00:19:35] – A call to future leaders: this is your moment to get on the bus Resources & Links MentionedSIMON CRM – Student Works Information Management Organizational Network Important LinksConnect with Chris: Website | LinkedInLearn more about the Student Works Management ProgramApply to be an Owner / Operator in the Management ProgramLooking for a fun job this summer? Summer Job OpportunitiesHear more Alumni Success Stories  The Leaders of Tomorrow Podcast is an original production by Chris Thomson. Production and editing by Podcast Your Brand.