Between Two Dots

Between Two Dots

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MENTAL HEALTH
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The title "Between Two Dots" is meant to describe the time between when we are born and when we perish. Our hope is to share insights and learnings from our guests, who we are inspired by and who are living life on their terms - with purpose and impact as their North Star. Hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong.

11 HR AGO

172. Samir Musavyev - Global Professional and Podcast Host

Samir is an entrepreneur and global professional whose journey spans multiple countries, cultures, and career transitions. In this episode, we sit down to explore Samir’s story—from his early life and family influence to building a career in banking and eventually moving to Canada. Samir shares how growing up in a culturally diverse environment shaped his perspective on identity, adaptability, and raising a family in today’s world. We dive into his experiences navigating different countries, embracing change, and learning how to thrive in unfamiliar environments. Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey” “Consistency, taking care of your health, and building the right network will take you further than anything else" – Samir Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Introduction & Samir’s Background01:07 – Early Life, Family Influence & Cultural Roots05:41 – Moving Countries & Life Experiences Abroad10:18 – Diversity, Identity & Raising Kids in Canada15:12 – Education, Career Decisions & Banking Journey20:11 – Career Growth, Crisis Management & Move to Canada24:24 – Ad Break (Sponsors)27:18 – Giving Back & The Global Nomad Podcast31:22 – Key Life Lessons: Consistency, Health & Networking40:07 – Outro & Call to Action Connect with Samir:Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/musayevs Sponsors of this episode: Bloom Benefits Group: www.bloombenefits.ca Zelos Investment Counsel: www.zelosglobal.com Airways Krown: www.krown.com Motiv: https://motiv.digital Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.

45 min
29 APR

171. Jan Eden - Strategist and Executive Advisor

Jan is a seasoned entrepreneur, strategist, and executive advisor with over 30 years of experience helping professionals and organizations unlock their true potential. In this episode, we sit down to explore Jan’s journey—from her early life in Toronto to building a life and career in Calgary, navigating personal challenges, and ultimately creating a business centered around transformation, visibility, and value creation. This conversation explores the realities of starting over, the power of network-building, and why generosity, respect, and human connection matter more than ever in today’s fast-moving, technology-driven world. Jan also breaks down her approach to developing executive mindsets, helping professionals transition into leadership roles, and guiding individuals through career reinvention in uncertain times. Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey” “Without visibility, without relationships, and without belief in yourself—you don’t exist in the marketplace” – Jan Episode Highlights: 00:00 – Introduction & Jan’s Background 01:07 – Early Life, Family & Growing Up in Toronto 05:41 – Moving to Calgary & Starting a New Life 10:18 – Family Influence, Adversity & Resilience 15:12 – Career Beginnings at Four Seasons & Core Values20:11 – Transition to Entrepreneurship & Reinvention 24:24 – Ad Break (Sponsors) 27:18 – Building a Business from Scratch & Finding Clients 31:22 – Executive Mindset, Leadership & Career Growth40:07 – Networking, Visibility & The Power of Generosity 47:23 – Career Reinvention in a Changing Economy51:22 – Legacy, Life Lessons & Advice to Her Younger Self 55:36 – How to Connect with Jan & Final Thoughts Connect with Jan: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janeden/ Website: https://janeden.com Sponsors of this episode: Bloom Benefits Group: www.bloombenefits.ca Zelos Investment Counsel: www.zelosglobal.com Airways Krown: www.krown.com Motiv: https://motiv.digital Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.

59 min
21 APR

170. Trena Laine - Personal Development and Transformation Thought Leader

Trena Laine is a beauty industry veteran, entrepreneur, and thought leader at the intersection of personal development and transformation. In this episode, we sit down to explore her journey from small-town beginnings to building a purpose-driven career rooted in authenticity, creativity, and resilience. This conversation also takes a deeply personal turn as Trena opens up about love, loss, and the passing of her husband, Aaron. Through grief, reflection, and healing, she’s reshaped not only her business but her entire perspective on success, fulfillment, and what really matters. Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey” “Strength isn’t about holding it all together — it’s about being vulnerable across every emotion” – Trena Laine Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction & Meeting Trina Lane 03:00 Growing Up in Moose Jaw & Early Life Lessons 07:30 Career Exploration & Finding Direction 14:00 Workplace Challenges & Trusting Intuition21:30 Starting a Business from Scratch 28:00 Building Community Before Social Media 33:30 Creativity, Childhood & Rediscovering Purpose 37:00 Moving to Calgary & Starting Over 43:00 Burnout, Hustle Culture & Shifting Priorities 47:00 Loss, Grief & Rebuilding After Aaron’s Passing 50:30 Writing, Healing & A New Chapter 01:06:27 – Outro & Call to Action Connect with Trena:Website: https://trenalaine.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/trenalaine/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TrenaOlfert/videosFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TrenaLaine Sponsors of this episode: Bloom Benefits Group: www.bloombenefits.ca Zelos Investment Counsel: www.zelosglobal.com Airways Krown: www.krown.com Motiv: https://motiv.digital Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.

1hr 10min
16 APR

169. Zak Hussein - AI Strategist and Founder

Zak Hussein, AI strategist and founder of AI With Zak, joins us to discuss his journey into artificial intelligence and digital innovation. He shares how curiosity and experimentation led him to build a platform making AI accessible for individuals and businesses. We explore the rapid evolution of AI tools, their impact on industries, and why adaptability, creativity, and critical thinking remain crucial in the age of automation. Zak also explains how to leverage AI as a tool rather than fear it as a replacement. Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey” “You can either ignore the technology that’s coming, or you can learn to use it and create leverage” – Zak Hussein Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction & Catching Up 06:50 Zak’s Background & Early Journey 11:00 Discovering AI & The Start of AI With Zak 19:00 The Rise of AI Tools & Opportunities for Creators 26:00 Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work 34:00 Creativity, Automation & The Attention Economy 43:00 How Businesses Can Start Using AI Today 47:30 Advice for People Entering the AI Space 01:11:14 How to Connect with Zak Connect with Zak Hussein: Website: aiwithzak.com Instagram: @aiwithzak YouTube: AI With Zak Sponsors of this episode: Bloom Benefits Group: www.bloombenefits.ca Zelos Investment Counsel: www.zelosglobal.com Airways Krown: www.krown.com Motiv: https://motiv.digital Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.

1hr 13min
9 APR

168. Gilbert Bong - On a Mission to Redefine Wealth Management

Gilbert Bong is the Co-Founder and Portfolio Manager at Zelos Investment Counsel. In this episode, we sit down with our co-host to unpack the journey of building a boutique wealth management firm rooted in long-term thinking and disciplined investing. From being laid off during Calgary’s 2016 downturn to launching Zelos that same year, Gilbert shares how adversity shaped his entrepreneurial path. We explore the psychology of money, active vs. passive strategy, and why “winning by not losing” defines his approach. Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey" “Winning by not losing over the long run — that’s where we really shine" – Gilbert Bong Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction & Catching Up 03:28 What Zelos Actually Does 05:06 The 2016 Layoff & Founding the Firm 14:59 Planning with the End in Mind 28:19 Active vs Passive Investing 33:04 Building a Different Wealth Platform 43:53 AI, Trust & The Human Edge 52:23 What Keeps Gilbert Hungry 55:41 How to Connect & Work with Zelos Connect with Gilbert & Zelos Investment Counsel: Website: www.zelosglobal.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Zelos-Capital-Ltd-109939147334712/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zelosglobal/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/zelos-capital-ltd./ Gilbert Bong: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/gilbertbong Sponsors of this episode: Bloom Benefits Group: www.bloombenefits.ca Zelos Investment Counsel: www.zelosglobal.com Airways Krown: www.krown.com Motiv: https://motiv.digital Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.

59 min
3 MAR

167. Adam Thompson - Founder and Sock Entrepenuer

Adam Thompson, is the founder of Friday Sock Co. Adam shares his journey from humble beginnings in Ontario to becoming a successful entrepreneur in Calgary. Known for his unique mismatched socks, Adam discusses the challenges and rewards of growing his business, the importance of hard work, and the significance of giving back to the community. We also dive into his plans for the future, including upcoming projects and his commitment to social responsibility. Join us as we explore his inspiring story and get a glimpse of what's next for Friday Sock Co. “Entrepreneurship is hard, but it also shapes you as a human as you go through it, and you end up being quite different than you started ” – Adam Thompson Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 03:43 Adam's Early Life and Humble Beginnings 09:39 Career Journey and Entrepreneurial Spirit 17:56 The Birth of the Sock Business 30:20 A message from our sponsors. 33:17 Exploring Social Entrepreneurship 35:45 Impact of the Pandemic and Community Support 38:07 Business Growth and Future Plans 41:30 How you can reach out to Adam and Friday Socks Co. 48:35 Personal Reflections and Advice Support Adam and his work: ca.linkedin.com/in/adamryanthompson www.fridaysocks.com Sponsors of this episode: Bloom Benefits Group: www.bloombenefits.ca Zelos Investment Counsel: www.zelosglobal.com Airways Krown: www.krown.com Motiv: https://motiv.digital Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.

1hr 3min
17 FEB

166. Crystal Taylor - She-EO & Individual Planning Strategist

Crystal Taylor is the co-founder of Holden + Taylor Advisory Group. Crystal shares her journey from a challenging experience with the financial industry, which ignited her passion to help others avoid similar pitfalls. With 17 years of experience, she discusses navigating the 2008 financial crisis, becoming a single mother, and overcoming personal health challenges. Crystal also highlights the importance of insurance, financial planning, and the joy of raising service dogs. Tune in for an insightful discussion that covers adversity, resilience, and intentional living. Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey” “You just need to show up as much as you possibly can.” – Crystal Taylor Episode Highlights: Support Crystal and her work: 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 02:45 Crystal's Early Life and Move to Calgary 03:48 Journey as a Student Athlete 11:48 Transition from Skiing to Motherhood 21:00 Navigating Life as a Single Mother 27:54 Falling into a Career 30:27 Starting Out in Financial Planning 32:25 Building a Business 36:52 A message from our sponsors. 39:49 Insurance Insights 49:28 Personal Reflections and Advice 53:09 Connect with Crystal. Support Crystal and her work: holdentaylorfinancial.ca/ IG: www.instagram.com/taylord_advisor Sponsors of this episode: Bloom Benefits Group: www.bloombenefits.ca Zelos Investment Counsel: www.zelosglobal.com Airways Krown: www.krown.com Motiv: https://motiv.digital Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.

56 min
2 FEB

165. Kim Presser - Non-Profit CEO and Advocate

In this episode, we chat with Kim, the CEO of Between Friends, a remarkable organization dedicated to providing social, recreational, and developmental opportunities for people with disabilities. Kim shares her personal journey from growing up in Nepean, Ottawa to becoming the CEO of this impactful organization in Calgary and Red Deer. Learn about the unique programs and events that Between Friends offers, how they support over 650 members, and the incredible community they have built over the years. Don't miss out on hearing Kim's inspiring story and the important work being done to promote inclusion and connection for all. Between two dots – “Really, the value is in that line: the journey” “ Everyone deserves the same opportunities in this life" – Kim Presser Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction and Welcoming Kim 01:04 Kim's Early Life and Family Background 03:01 Growing Up and Family Business 09:51 Educational Journey and Career Shift 19:03 Between Friends: Mission and Impact 25:36 Fundraising Strategies and Community Support 27:19 Inclusive Partnerships with Local Bars 28:31 A Message From Our Sponsors 31:27 Programs and Events Overview 35:21 Development Programs and Volunteer Opportunities 40:37 Leadership Journey and Lessons Learned 55:19 Connect with Kim and Between Friends. Support Kim and her work: https://betweenfriends.ab.ca/ LI: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/kimberley-presser-98165821 IG: https://www.instagram.com/betweenfriendsab/ Sponsors of this episode: Bloom Benefits Group: www.bloombenefits.ca Zelos Investment Counsel: www.zelosglobal.com Airways Krown: www.krown.com Motiv: https://motiv.digital Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and the guests do not necessarily reflect any agency, organization, or affiliated companies.

58 min

The title "Between Two Dots" is meant to describe the time between when we are born and when we perish. Our hope is to share insights and learnings from our guests, who we are inspired by and who are living life on their terms - with purpose and impact as their North Star. Hosted by Hafiz Mitha and Gilbert Bong.

Creator

Between Two Dots
Years Active

2022 - 2026
Episodes

172
Rating

Explicit
Copyright

© Between Two Dots
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