It’s Lonely at the Top Podcast

Nancy MacKay

How to be an Unstoppable CEO in an AI World. It’s Lonely at the Top is a reimagined leadership podcast for CEOs and senior leaders navigating an AI-driven world. Hosted by Nancy MacKay, Founder & CEO of MacKay CEO Forums, this podcast explores the MacKay Mastery Model and what it takes to lead with clarity, confidence, and resilience as technology reshapes business. Each episode features real conversations with CEOs, executives, Chairs, and AI-forward leaders on leadership mastery, decision-making, human connection, and practical AI, so leaders stay relevant, grounded, and unstoppable.

  1. 7H AGO

    From Immigrant Roots to Industry Leader: How CEOs Find Strength Through Peer Support

    In this episode of "It's Lonely at the Top," host Nancy MacKay welcomes Kim Tofin and Sergey Poltev to discuss the unique challenges faced by CEOs and the importance of peer support. Sergey shares his journey as a first-generation immigrant from Russia, detailing how personal hardships shaped his entrepreneurial spirit and led him to establish three successful companies in IT and cybersecurity. Sergey emphasizes the significance of having a judgment-free space for leaders to connect and grow, which he found in Kim's CEO group. Kim, a seasoned executive and forum chair, highlights the value of peer group learning and the transformative power of mentorship in leadership roles.  Sergey Poltev helps growth-minded entrepreneurs escape “CEO overload” by building delegation systems powered by full-time, dedicated virtual assistants. As the founder of VA Desk, based in Ottawa, Ontario, he equips business owners with the playbook to hire, train, and integrate Philippines-based Virtual EAs into daily operations, turning chaos into repeatable workflows and freeing up time for leadership, health, and growth. With a background in technology and cybersecurity, Sergey brings a systems-first approach to delegation that’s practical, measurable, and built to scale.  Kim Tofin is a proud father, cultural explorer, and seasoned leader with nearly 40 years of global business experience spanning high-tech markets, major Canadian energy projects, and international consulting. Through BREAKOUTcx, Kim helps CEOs and executives move beyond the “go-it-alone” mindset into teamship — a collaborative leadership approach that transforms silos into strategic advantage. As a Forum Chair and team coach, Kim creates trusted spaces where leaders tackle complex challenges together. He’s known for bridging technical and non-technical worlds and guiding bold, possibility-driven leadership. Kim supports CEOs ready to evolve from soloists into courageous conductors.    Join a MacKay CEO Forums⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Peer Group:   MacKay CEO Forums⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: brings results-oriented CEOs, Executives, and Business Leaders together to solve their toughest problems and maximize opportunity through peer learning and support. Learn more: https://mackayceoforums.com/members/

    38 min

  2. MAR 3

    The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership

    In this episode of the podcast, Nancy MacKay hosts Conan Graham, Chief Business Officer and Certified Forum Chair at MacKay CEO Forums, and Brian Harris, President and CEO of Beem Credit Union, discussing their leadership journeys, the challenges of being a CEO, and the importance of community and vulnerability in leadership. They explore the significance of personal growth, mental fitness, and the transformative potential of AI in the workplace. The conversation emphasizes the need for CEOs to surround themselves with supportive peers and to embrace new technologies to drive innovation and efficiency in their organizations.  Conan Graham is an accomplished executive who thrives at the intersection of strategy, innovation, and impact. With a career spanning multiple sectors, including FinTech, SaaS/PaaS, real estate, healthcare, senior living, and emerging technologies, Conan has consistently helped organizations turn complex challenges into sustainable growth. His approach combines visionary thinking with practical execution, grounded in a global perspective and a deep commitment to meaningful outcomes.  Brian Harris serves as President and CEO of Beem Credit Union, accountable to the Board of Directors for ensuring the ongoing success, strength, and long-term prosperity of the organization and its members. In this role, Brian Harris provides strategic leadership, direction, coordination, and planning to advance the credit union’s vision and deliver on the objectives outlined in Beem Credit Union’s corporate strategic plan. Born and raised in British Columbia, Brian Harris brings more than 20 years of global experience leading financial services organizations through periods of significant growth and transformation, helping them adapt to an increasingly fast-paced and evolving industry.  Join a MacKay CEO Forums⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Peer Group:   MacKay CEO Forums⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: brings results-oriented CEOs, Executives, and Business Leaders together to solve their toughest problems and maximize opportunity through peer learning and support. Learn more: https://mackayceoforums.com/members/

    36 min

  3. FEB 17

    The Journey of a Social Purpose Entrepreneur

    In this episode, Nancy MacKay hosts Keith Ippel and Natalie Michael to discuss the challenges and triumphs of social purpose leadership. They explore the loneliness often felt by CEOs, the importance of health and well-being, and the transformative role of AI in business. Keith shares his journey as a social purpose entrepreneur and the impact of his co-CEO model, while Natalie discusses her work in supporting CEO transitions. Together, they emphasize the need for community, coaching, and innovation in leadership.  Keith Ippel is a serial entrepreneur and investor who has co-founded five ventures including Spring Activator, a Vancouver based incubator and accelerator that exists to change the world through innovation. A global company, Spring has supported over 3,300 purpose driven companies across Canada to launch and scale their impact, and 1,100+ Canadians to step into impact investing. Keith also co-founded Spring Impact Capital Fund, an early stage VC that focuses at the intersection of people and planetary health. Keith holds an MBA from the Ivey School of Business.  Natalie Michael is a Master Certified MacKay CEO Forum chair, executive coach, and succession consultant who helps CEOs and executives grow their leadership and navigate C-suite transitions. She’s passionate about building socially responsible, high-quality businesses and believes personal fulfillment drives long-term success. Over the past decade, she has coached hundreds of leaders, led world-class development programs, and chairs multiple CEO groups. Natalie is a Partner at Waterfront Partners and co-author of Your CEO Succession Playbook and author of The Duck and The Butterfly. Natalie is known for connecting leaders who share goals and strengthening executive communities.    Join a MacKay CEO Forums⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Peer Group:   MacKay CEO Forums⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: brings results-oriented CEOs, Executives, and Business Leaders together to solve their toughest problems and maximize opportunity through peer learning and support. Learn more.

    33 min

  4. FEB 3

    The Journey from HR to CEO: Insights from Jay-Ann Gilfoy

    In this episode of the It's Lonely at the Top podcast, Nancy MacKay interviews Jay-Ann Gilfoy, CEO of Meridian Credit Union, discussing her journey from HR to CEO, the importance of peer groups, and the challenges of leadership. Jay-Ann shares insights on overcoming loneliness at the top, inspiring leadership practices, and the role of mental fitness and positive intelligence in her daily routine. The conversation also delves into the integration of AI in business and how to address workforce concerns regarding AI adoption.  Jay-Ann Gilfoy joined Meridian as President & CEO on January 3, 2022. She is focused on leveraging Meridian’s unique value proposition to transform the business, achieve its winning aspiration, and secure its future. In collaboration with the Board and senior management, she is responsible for articulating the organization’s strategy and delivering on its purpose of helping Members and customers achieve a better life, while growing the business.  Jay-Ann’s wealth of business transformation, social impact, and leadership expertise has been cultivated over more than 20 years as a senior executive in a broad range of roles and experiences in the private and public sector and co-operative financial services.  Join a MacKay CEO Forums⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Peer Group MacKay CEO Forums⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: brings results-oriented CEOs, Executives, and Business Leaders together to solve their toughest problems and maximize opportunity through peer learning and support. www.mackayceoforums.com/members/

    35 min

  5. JAN 20

    Navigating Leadership Loneliness: Hear from Sushant Trivedi and Nico Human

    In this episode of 'It's Lonely at the Top,' Nancy MacKay hosts Sushant Trivedi and Nico Human, discussing the challenges and triumphs of leadership. They explore the loneliness that often accompanies high-level positions, the importance of peer support, and strategies for self-leadership and accountability. Sushant shares his journey from being an immigrant to becoming a successful CEO, while Nico reflects on his experiences and the significance of maintaining human connections in an increasingly digital world. The conversation also delves into the role of AI in business transformation and the necessity of prioritizing health and well-being as a leader.  Sushant Trivedi is the Chief Executive Officer of Fresh Tracks Canada, a leading travel company specializing in custom-designed Canadian travel experiences. As CEO, Sushant is responsible for setting the strategic vision, driving growth, and leading a values-driven organization that blends operational excellence with exceptional client experiences. He is known for his thoughtful, people-first leadership style and his ability to navigate complexity with clarity, balancing performance, culture, and long-term stewardship while guiding teams through change and scale.  Nico Human is a Master Certified Forum Chair with MacKay CEO Forums, where he facilitates confidential peer groups for CEOs and senior executives. In this role, Nico creates a trusted, high-performance environment that enables leaders to work through their most pressing business and personal challenges. He is widely respected for his calm presence, sharp listening skills, and ability to guide deep, practical conversations that lead to better decision-making, stronger leadership, and sustained impact both inside and outside the organization.  Join a MacKay CEO Forums⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Peer Group: MacKay CEO Forums⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠: brings results-oriented CEOs, Executives, and Business Leaders together to solve their toughest problems and maximize opportunity through peer learning and support. www.mackayceoforums.com/members/

    34 min
  6. #30: How to Surround Yourselves with Smarter People. Hear from Chris Taylor, CEO of Actionable.co

    11/06/2024

    #30: How to Surround Yourselves with Smarter People. Hear from Chris Taylor, CEO of Actionable.co

    Chris Taylor is the CEO of Actionable.co, which is at the leading edge of learning sustainment and impact measurement for progressive organizations. Described once by a client as “a curious blend of Boomer and Gen-Y”, Chris is often called upon to act as a bridge and translator between generations at work, our new state of constant change and the impact technology has on team dynamics. He brings a self-deprecating sense of humour and grounded-ness to his keynotes and workshops, ensuring attendees leave inspired and well-equipped to drive real change back in the workplace.  Through Actionable.co, Chris brings empirical evidence and stories to illustrate how, exactly, we measure ROI on corporate learning initiatives, and the systems to ensure every program creates lasting impact. He’s personally consulted to over 400 organizations across 6 countries, in almost any sector you can name. In addition to being a regular speaker for both public and private events, Chris has penned over 150 articles for dozens of publications, been quoted in The National Post, Toronto Star and Globe & Mail and hosted 90+ thought leader interviews for the iTunes #2 ranked business podcast, The 21st Century Workplace. Chris grew up in Richmond, BC. Chris’s mother was a teacher, and his father was in operations. Chris learned from an early age about education and problem solving. Hear an inspiring conversation with Nancy and Chris about career development, putting systems in place to succeed in business and in life, and continuous development personally and professionally.   Connect with Chris Taylor on social media: Chris Taylor LinkedIn  Actionable LinkedIn  Chris Taylor Twitter  Actionable Twitter  TODAY'S BOOK RECOMMENDATION: ⁠⁠⁠⁠“High Road Leadership: Bringing People Together in a World That Divides”, by John Maxwell JOIN A MACKAY CEO PEER GROUP TODAY: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MacKay CEO Forums⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ brings results-oriented CEOs, Executives, and Business Leaders together to solve their toughest problems and maximize opportunity through peer learning and support. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ CONNECT WITH MACKAY CEO FORUMS: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn ⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠

    23 min
  7. #29: From Success-Driven Childhood to CEO, hear from Louise Hendey, CEO of Erickson Coaching International

    10/16/2024

    #29: From Success-Driven Childhood to CEO, hear from Louise Hendey, CEO of Erickson Coaching International

    Louise is the CEO of Erickson Coaching International. Established in 1980, Erickson has trained over 55,000+ professional coaches and worked with leaders in 125+ countries. Louise has a 25-year career spanning across multiple industries including consulting, education, non-profit, financial services and coaching. She has a Master’s Degree in Business (summa cum laude and top student) and completed her published thesis on the topic of Work-Life Integration. She is a qualified teacher, counselor/coach and has a particular passion for human development, but she calls herself a chameleon leader.  Since its inception, Erickson has pioneered transformational change in individuals and organizations using a methodology of coaching techniques informed by neuroscience that are action-based and future-focused. Above all, Erickson is committed to empowering people by placing emphasis on solutions rather than problems. With a strong track record of implementing long lasting positive change in Fortune 500 companies such as SAP and Google, Erickson has earned a reputation as one of the most recognized human development institutes in the world.  Louise is a relational person, and this started when her mother drilled in the ‘importance of success’ in life, and in business which lead to Louise’s success in growing Erickson Consulting. Currently residing in South Africa, Louise is a scuba diving enthusiast, and strongly believes in a coach approach to leadership.  In this podcast, hear Nancy and Louise discuss Louise’s childhood, her family, how she leveled up to get the Erickson CEO role, and the importance of receiving coaching despite your professional role.   TODAY'S BOOK RECOMMENDATION: ⁠⁠⁠⁠The Worlds I See: Curiosity, Exploration, and Discovery at the Dawn of AI, by Fei-Fei Li.  JOIN A MACKAY CEO PEER GROUP TODAY: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MacKay CEO Forums⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ brings results-oriented CEOs, Executives, and Business Leaders together to solve their toughest problems and maximize opportunity through peer learning and support. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠  CONNECT WITH MACKAY CEO FORUMS: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn ⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    25 min
  8. #28: From Retail Clerk to CEO: David Poirier on Growth, Peer Learning, and Leading The Poirier Group

    10/02/2024

    #28: From Retail Clerk to CEO: David Poirier on Growth, Peer Learning, and Leading The Poirier Group

    We’re pleased to have connected with David Poirier, CEO, The Poirier Group. David is an accomplished leader having progressed in his earlier career from retail clerk (while in University), to Executive and C-Suite roles in major National Grocery and Retail organizations, as well as an International Health and Life Sciences corporation.  The Poirier Group is a boutique management consulting firm operating throughout North America. They focus on executing your strategy, optimizing your processes, increasing your productivity and reducing your costs. David’s innate ability to navigate organizational bottlenecks that impede progress, and his influential style for conflict resolution across all levels of an organization have been key to instilling a culture of teamwork, focus and accountability leading to lasting change for his clients. David is a CEO, Professional Engineer and Professional Logistician. David has won numerous awards for contributions to The University of Toronto, Institute of Industrial and Systems Engineers and for his career achievements in engineering and management. Partner of 20 years to Tina and together they have 10 children and 11 grandchildren. In this episode, Nancy and David discuss how The Poirier Group grew from 5 to over 50 people while having maintained an enviable record of 100% positive client experience, the power of peer learning, and David’s elevation in business and science.  TODAY'S BOOK RECOMMENDATION: ⁠Rocket Fuel: the one essential combination that will get you more of what you want from your business, by Geno Wickman and Mark Winters. JOIN A MACKAY CEO PEER GROUP TODAY: ⁠⁠⁠⁠MacKay CEO Forums⁠⁠⁠⁠ brings results-oriented CEOs, Executives, and Business Leaders together to solve their toughest problems and maximize opportunity through peer learning and support. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Learn more.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ CONNECT WITH MACKAY CEO FORUMS: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn ⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

    24 min
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About

How to be an Unstoppable CEO in an AI World. It’s Lonely at the Top is a reimagined leadership podcast for CEOs and senior leaders navigating an AI-driven world. Hosted by Nancy MacKay, Founder & CEO of MacKay CEO Forums, this podcast explores the MacKay Mastery Model and what it takes to lead with clarity, confidence, and resilience as technology reshapes business. Each episode features real conversations with CEOs, executives, Chairs, and AI-forward leaders on leadership mastery, decision-making, human connection, and practical AI, so leaders stay relevant, grounded, and unstoppable.

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