Leaders Of Tomorrow Podcast Chris Thomson

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris is joined by Jon Mailhot, a former top operator at Student Works who has since carved a successful career in various industries, including sales, marketing, and most recently, environmental sustainability in the plastics recycling sector. Jon shares insights from his journey, emphasizing the value of basic sales and marketing principles across different roles, from his early days in door-to-door sales to his pivotal role in procurement and sales in the plastics recycling industry. His story illustrates the importance of listening to and learning from industry professionals, as well as the impact of persistence and embracing new challenges for professional growth.
 
Jon's career trajectory is notable for its diversity, from working with the Montreal Canadiens in media planning and innovation to transitioning into the environmental sector with a focus on plastics recycling. This shift was driven by a combination of personal life changes and a growing interest in contributing positively to environmental sustainability. Jon highlights the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and the willingness to step into unfamiliar territories to drive both personal and professional development. His experience underscores the significance of understanding industry cycles, the power of networking, and the importance of seizing opportunities that align with one’s values and interests.
 
Chris and Jon also explore themes of mental health and work-life balance, with Jon advocating for the importance of self-care, physical activity, and seeking professional help when needed. He shares personal reflections on the challenges of balancing a demanding career with family life, especially during the pandemic, and how these experiences led him to prioritize his mental and physical well-being. Jon’s story is a testament to the idea that success is not only defined by professional achievements but also by the ability to maintain health and happiness. His journey from a young entrepreneur to a leader in environmental sustainability offers valuable lessons on resilience, adaptability, and the importance of aligning one’s career with their values and passions.
 
Enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:
How listening to industry professionals and learning from them has been crucial throughout Jon's career.
Jon's shift from a successful sales career to a role in environmental sustainability, the importance of being open to change and the value of continuous learning.
How networking and building genuine relationships can open doors to unexpected and exciting career opportunities.
The importance of taking care of one's mental health and finding a balance between work and personal life.
The growing importance of sustainability in business operations, and how businesses can contribute positively to environmental sustainability.
Jon's habit of being perpetually curious and willing to learn, and why it's a key driver of personal and professional growth.
The importance of leading by example, inspiring others, and incorporating sustainability into leadership practices.
And so much more…
 
 

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris is joined by Fred Turcotte, a standout participant of the Student Works Management Program. Highlighting an extraordinary journey of growth, the episode unfolds Fred's transition from a rookie to a remarkable leader in the business world. Last year, Fred embarked on his entrepreneurial journey with Student Works, finishing as the third top rookie, a significant leap from $8,000 to $158,000 in revenue. This transformation underscores the pivotal role of passion, persistence, and embracing challenges in shaping young leaders. Fred's story is not just about financial success; it's a testament to the profound personal and professional development that the program fosters.
 
The episode explores the mechanics of Fred's success, revealing the strategies that catapulted his business forward. From the struggles of securing bookings with a low conversion rate to becoming a top operator, Fred's tale is one of resilience. He shares insights into overcoming obstacles such as the absence of a direct production manager and logistical challenges, attributing his breakthrough to heightened confidence and improved communication skills. These experiences illuminate the importance of persistence and adaptability in entrepreneurship. Fred's ability to navigate through difficulties and leverage his coach's guidance for a turnaround is particularly inspiring. It showcases the transformative impact of mentorship and the right mindset in achieving unprecedented growth.
 
Looking ahead, Fred discusses his ambitious plans for the future, aiming to expand his business further and break new records. He emphasizes the significance of building a supportive team, fostering leadership among his peers, and the invaluable lessons in leadership and communication acquired through his experiences. These skills, as Fred notes, are essential for his aspirations in business and real estate. The episode not only celebrates Fred's remarkable achievements but also serves as a motivational blueprint for young entrepreneurs. It encapsulates the essence of the Student Works Management Program in nurturing the leaders of tomorrow, highlighting the journey from potential to excellence through perseverance, strategic planning, and community support.
 
Enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:
The importance of not just being a leader but creating leaders within your organization.
Fred's journey from struggling to book clients to becoming a top operator, highlighting resilience and adaptability as key traits for success.
How passion plays a critical role in driving value and success, not just for the individual but for the entire team.
Fred's experience with logistical challenges and how overcoming these obstacles contributed to his personal and professional growth.
Setting ambitious goals and meticulously planning to achieve them.
Building a supportive team and the benefits of a collaborative environment.
Balancing business goals with academic pursuits through efficient time management and prioritization.
Adapting business strategies and continuously striving for improvement, remaining flexible and always seeking growth.
The value of learning from peers and using competition as a healthy motivator.
And so much more…

In today's episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris chats with Andy Geschi, one of our alumni, who is now a seasoned real estate broker with Re/Max in the Kitchener-Waterloo area. With over 25 years of experience, Andy shares his remarkable journey from his entrepreneurial beginnings, selling candy from his high school locker, to becoming a top-tier real estate professional and the important role our program played in this journey.
 
During the episode, Andy reflects on the pivotal role of Student Works in shaping his entrepreneurial spirit and work ethic. He delves into the valuable lessons learned during his early sales career, emphasizing the importance of accountability, adaptability, and perseverance.
 
Andy shares insights into his transition into real estate, highlighting the strategic planning and dedication required to establish a successful career. He discusses the parallels between running a franchise with Student Works and excelling as a real estate broker, emphasizing the significance of client-focused service and continuous self-improvement.
 
Throughout the conversation, Andy offers practical advice and invaluable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and emerging leaders. From the power of leading by example to the importance of work-life balance, Andy's story is a testament to the transformative power of dedication, integrity, and passion in achieving professional success.
 
Tune in to gain valuable insights and inspiration from Andy's journey, and discover the keys to unlocking your own path to success in the competitive world of real estate and entrepreneurship.Listen now and enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:
About personal and professional growth through coaching and accountability.
How was Andy’s career transition from sales to real estate.
What are the similarities between sales and real estate industries.
Real estate industry, brand recognition, and career development.
The importance of building strong relationships.
And so much more...
 
Resources:
Student Works

In today's episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris chats with Andrew Thompson, one of our young leaders, an operator who, despite a slow start and financial setbacks, turned his business around and achieved a staggering $180,000 in sales by the end of the summer, complete with a well-deserved trip to Mexico.  Andrew dives into the details of the struggles he faced, highlighting the importance of belief in oneself, adherence to systems, and the power of coaching and hope.
 
He also talks about the pivotal role of mindset, recounting his own experiences of navigating a period of self-doubt and lack of focus before joining the program. Andrew emphasizes the significance of staying busy, staying active, and falling in love with the process, showcasing how these habits contributed to his success.
 
Listeners will find out the valuable lessons Andrew learned during his initial struggles, emphasizing the significance of faith, commitment, and embracing the learning curve. You will also learn about the impact of structured planning, the value of a reliable calendar, and the mindset shift that propelled him to surpass his business goals.
 
Listen now and enjoy the inspiring journey of Andrew Thompson as he shares valuable lessons and insights he got from our program!

What You Will Learn In This Show:
The importance of overcoming challenges in business and believing in oneself.
The impact of setting specific goals and adhering to a structured schedule for success.
The transformational power of a positive mindset and the value of learning from mistakes.
The role of teamwork, motivation, and intrinsic motivation in leadership.
Insights into the mindset and leadership qualities of  a leader of tomorrow.
And so much more…
 
Resources:
Student Works

In this episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris is joined by two outstanding young entrepreneurs: Alexandra Buca and Chris Caruso. Both share their experiences as rookie operators in the competitive field of window cleaning and painting services, highlighting their remarkable early success. Alexandra, operating in Aylmer, has already booked $71,000 in painting services by March 4, while Chris, in London, secured $59,000 in window cleaning services. Their stories underscore the program's aim to foster ambitious, hardworking, and highly competitive individuals who are committed to being the best versions of themselves.
 
Throughout the episode, Alexandra and Chris discuss the personal growth and professional skills they've acquired through their involvement in the Student Works Management Program. They emphasize the importance of continuous learning, adaptability, and the effective management of challenges and vulnerabilities. Alexandra shares her journey of overcoming the fear of rejection and the significance of maintaining a high work ethic, while Chris discusses his transformation from a negative mindset to one of resilience and self-confidence. Both attribute their success to the structured support and mentorship provided by the program, which has empowered them to navigate the complexities of running a business while still pursuing their academic goals.
 
They also reflect on the qualities that define a "leader of tomorrow." They envision leaders as individuals who embody adaptability, hard work, innovation, and a willingness to help others. Both Alexandra and Chris highlight the impact of the Student Works community in shaping their leadership skills and the invaluable lessons learned from peers and mentors. By sharing their experiences, challenges, and achievements, the episode not only celebrates the success of young entrepreneurs but also serves as a source of inspiration and guidance for aspiring leaders eager to make their mark in the world of business.
 
Enjoy!

What You Will Learn In This Show:
The importance of always seeking new knowledge, skills, and challenges to innovate and advance career paths.
Alexandra and Chris' achievements in booking significant amounts of business early in their entrepreneurial journeys and the potential for success when combining hard work with effective training and mentorship.
Overcoming vulnerabilities and shifting mindsets towards positivity and resilience, and the importance of self-reflection and personal development in entrepreneurship.
The necessity of managing time effectively and maintaining a high work ethic.
Why adaptability is a major skill learned through the program, vital for navigating uncertain and challenging situations in any professional field.
The role of mentorship and the supportive community within the Student Works program, as well as the value of guidance and collaboration in achieving business success.
Alexandra and Chris' definition of a leader of tomorrow: someone who embodies adaptability, hard work, innovation, and a willingness to help others, inspiring positive change in society.
And so much more…

In today's episode of the Leaders of Tomorrow podcast, Chris chats with Jonathan Feist, an operator who worked with us just over a decade ago, a dynamic entrepreneur who has navigated diverse career paths with remarkable success. Jonathan shares insights from his journey, highlighting the importance of strategic career choices and embracing opportunities for growth.
 
Jonathan's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and strategic decision-making. From his early days at Student Works, where he honed his sales skills and developed a fearless attitude, to his ventures in the corporate world, Jonathan's trajectory has been marked by bold moves and calculated risks.
 
Listeners will find out how Jonathan's entrepreneurial spirit led him to invest in the restaurant industry during the challenging times of COVID-19. He recounts the journey of turning a risk into a triumph, as one of the restaurants he invested in was named the number one restaurant in Montreal and ranked 30th in Canada's top 100 restaurants.
 
Throughout the episode, Jonathan shares valuable lessons on the importance of networking, staying authentic, and prioritizing revenue-generating activities. He emphasizes the significance of challenging oneself and thinking outside the box to achieve success in both business and personal endeavors.
 
Listen now and discover the key habits and strategies that have propelled Jonathan to success in sales, entrepreneurship, and beyond!

What You Will Learn In This Show:
The importance of strategic career choices and embracing growth opportunities.
Insights into Jonathan's entrepreneurial journey, from Student Works to the corporate world.
Lessons on navigating challenges and turning risks into triumphs in the restaurant industry.
Practical tips for networking, staying authentic, and prioritizing revenue-generating activities.
Strategies for challenging oneself and thinking outside the box to achieve success in business and personal endeavors.
And so much more…
 
 
Resources:
Student Works