The 403 Podcast

Karissa Savage

The 403 Podcast tells the stories behind the people building Alberta. Hosted by Karissa Savage, each episode goes beyond the business to explore the leadership, risks, setbacks, and defining moments that shaped entrepreneurs, creators, and community leaders across the province. From local startups and family businesses to iconic brands and hidden gems, these are honest conversations about what it really takes to build something that matters. Because every business has a story. And every community is shaped by the people courageous enough to build it.

Episodes

  1. Aug 16

    Turning a Niche Idea Into a Growing Movement | Gerrit Janssen

    🎙️ Episode 2 | Gerrit Janssen – Turning a Niche Idea Into a Growing Movement What does it take to turn a niche idea into a growing community? In Episode 2 of The 403 Podcast, host Karissa Savage sits down with Gerrit Janssen, founder of Lokal Gluten Free Markets and the Gluten Free Expo, to talk about his journey from Red Seal Chef to entrepreneur and community builder. Gerrit shares what it really takes to build and scale an event-based business—from the risks and behind-the-scenes decisions to expanding into new markets while staying connected to the community that started it all. Whether you're an entrepreneur, small business owner, or someone who's ever wondered how a niche idea can grow into something much bigger, this episode offers an inside look at the work behind the brand. In this episode: ✔️ The story behind Lokal Gluten Free Markets ✔️ Going from Red Seal Chef to entrepreneur ✔️ The realities of building and scaling large events ✔️ Leadership lessons learned through growth ✔️ Creating opportunities for local businesses ✔️ What's next for Lokal and the Gluten Free Expo Learn more about Lokal Gluten Free Markets & Gluten Free Expo 🌐 Website: www.embracelokal.ca or www.gfexpo.ca 📸 Instagram: @lokalgfmarkets **Next Calgary Gluten Free Market: Oct 10th and Dec 19th. Coming soon Lethbridge Nov 7th. Free tickets at www.embracelokal.ca Follow The 403 Podcast 🎙️ YouTube: The 403 Podcast 📸 Instagram: @the403podcast 📧 Email: karissa@the403podcast.com Connect with host Karissa Savage If you're thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Calgary real estate—or making a move to Calgary—I'd love to connect. 📧 Email: karissasavageyyc@gmail.com 📱 Phone: 587-839-7120 🌐 Website: www.karissasavage.com 📸 Instagram: @savagecalgaryrealtor 💼 LinkedIn: Karissa Savage 🏠 Download our property app here

  2. Jul 21

    I Thought I Was Opening a Gym… It Became Something Much Bigger | Amanda Towstego

    🎙️ Episode 1 | Amanda Towstego – Building More Than a GymWhat does it really take to build a business that changes people's lives? In the premiere episode of The 403 Podcast, host-Karissa Savage sits down with Amanda Towstego, founder of Elevate YYC, to explore the journey from opening a small CrossFit gym to building one of Calgary's most respected fitness and wellness communities. This conversation goes far beyond workouts. Amanda shares the realities of entrepreneurship, the challenges of leading a growing team, the risks that shaped her business, and why creating a strong community has always mattered more than building a gym. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a leader, someone passionate about health, or simply looking for inspiration, Amanda's story is a reminder that the businesses making the biggest impact are built by people who genuinely care about serving others. In this episode:✔️ The story behind Elevate YYC ✔️ Leadership lessons from growing a successful business ✔️ Building a community that changes lives ✔️ Why health is about more than fitness ✔️ Amanda's vision for the future of wellness in Calgary Learn more about Elevate YYC 🌐 Website: www.elevateyyc.ca 📸 Instagram: @elevate.yyc & @elevate_funtional_health Follow The 403 Podcast 🎙️ YouTube: The 403 Podcast 📸 Instagram: @the403podcast 📧 Email: karissa@the403podcast.com Connect with host Karissa SavageIf you're thinking about buying, selling, or investing in Calgary real estate or moving to Calgary, I'd love to connect. 📧 Email: karissasavageyyc@gmail.com 📱 Phone: 587-839-7120 🌐 Website: www.karissasavage.com 📸 Instagram: @savagecalgaryrealtor 💼 LinkedIn: Karissa Savage 🏠 Download our property app here

About

The 403 Podcast tells the stories behind the people building Alberta. Hosted by Karissa Savage, each episode goes beyond the business to explore the leadership, risks, setbacks, and defining moments that shaped entrepreneurs, creators, and community leaders across the province. From local startups and family businesses to iconic brands and hidden gems, these are honest conversations about what it really takes to build something that matters. Because every business has a story. And every community is shaped by the people courageous enough to build it.