It’s Lonely at the Top Podcast

Epizódy

• 
  How Elite Leaders Build Mental Toughness 28.07.2026 43min

  Mental toughness isn't about having all the answers, it's about how you respond when leadership gets difficult. In this episode of It's Lonely at the Top, Nancy MacKay sits down with leadership expert Sean Bacon, Founder of Dynamic Shift Consulting Inc., to explore what it truly takes to build resilience as a CEO. Together, they discuss why leadership can feel isolating, how vulnerability strengthens rather than weakens leaders, and practical strategies for developing the mindset needed to lead through uncertainty. Sean Bacon is a 12-yr Canadian Armed Forces veteran. During his military career, he developed a training system that prepared soldiers and police officers, psychologically and physically, to perform under pressure in some of the world’s most demanding environments. Today, Sean brings that same discipline and performance mindset into the corporate world. His work transforms capable leaders into confident, decisive leaders, turns fragmented groups into cohesive high-performing teams, and replaces uncertainty, hesitation, and reactive behaviour with clarity, resilience, accountability, and trust. The result is stronger leadership, better decision-making, and teams prepared to perform when the stakes are highest. Whether you're navigating change, making difficult decisions, or looking to become a more resilient leader, this conversation offers actionable insights to help you lead with confidence and purpose.  Order Nancy’s New Book: Drawing on two decades of experience with more than five thousand leaders, Nancy reveals how to prioritize health, strengthen relationships, reclaim time, and develop resilience. Order ‘It's Lonely at the Top: CEO Strategies for Inspiring Yourself and Your Team’ today: https://bit.ly/3OcBTQH  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/ 
• 
  How CEOs Can Unlock Their Next Stage of Growth 14.07.2026 40min

  Growth doesn't happen by accident. It requires focus, courage, and the willingness to think differently. In this episode of It's Lonely at the Top, Nancy MacKay sits down with Kevin Lawrence, Founder and CEO of Lawrence & Company and bestselling author of Your Oxygen Mask First and Your Oxygen Mask First for Leaders. Together, they explore the ideas behind Kevin's latest book, Four Forces of Growth, and what it takes for CEOs to create sustainable, long-term growth. Kevin shares why so many leadership teams become trapped solving small problems instead of pursuing big opportunities, and how leaders can shift from a problem-focused mindset to one centred on growth. Drawing inspiration from the principles of flight, he introduces the Four Forces of Growth: Lift, Thrust, Gravity, and Drag, and explains how each one influences organizational performance. Whether you're leading through uncertainty, scaling your business, or looking to reignite momentum, this conversation offers practical strategies to help you focus on what matters most. Order Nancy’s New Book: Drawing on two decades of experience with more than five thousand leaders, Nancy reveals how to prioritize health, strengthen relationships, reclaim time, and develop resilience. Order ‘It's Lonely at the Top: CEO Strategies for Inspiring Yourself and Your Team’ today: https://bit.ly/3OcBTQH  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/ 
• 
  Overcoming Isolation as a CEO 24.06.2026 38min

  In the ever-evolving world of business, many leaders find themselves grappling with feelings of isolation. As a CEO, the weight of decision-making can feel heavy, and the road to success often feels lonely.  In this podcast, Nancy MacKay speaks with Sarah Mackinnon, CEO of Delta Q Technologies, and Katie Bennett, a trusted advisor for executives and Master Certified MacKay Forum Chair, on overcoming the challenges of CEO isolation. From leveraging peer networks to prioritizing personal well-being, these strategies can help you thrive in your leadership role. Sarah Mackinnon is one of a handful of women leaders in the Canadian tech space. Sarah brings drive and a sense of humour to her role at Delta-Q. Sarah has been key to Delta-Q’s success, inspiring and guiding finance and operations teams, while navigating through periods of growth and transformation, prior to transitioning into the CEO role, where she now oversees all aspects of the business. Prior to joining Delta-Q, Sarah held senior finance roles in several successful BC based technology companies, providing insight into the financials and driving results, leading to successful acquisitions and exits. Today, as CEO, Sarah is focused on the next phase of growth for Delta-Q; looking to “charge the future” as a strong partner to existing customers and other stakeholders, while also seeking new partnerships and markets, where Delta-Q can demonstrate its expertise in vehicle electrification, in step with increased global demand for sustainable solutions.  Katie Bennett is a big-picture strategic thinker with laser insight and is deeply inspiring. Her contagious energy is what she is known for. Over the past 20+ years, after an 11-year career in advertising, Katie pivoted to coaching and strategic planning, working with CEO’s and Executives to build high-functioning leadership teams aligned around a clear and actionable strategic plan, and designing systems of accountability to deliver results. Katie has an uncanny ability to make the complex simple; to coax leaders out of their comfort zone; to build high degrees of trust with a group very quickly; and to hold people accountable to their results. Katie holds an HBA from the Richard Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario and is a certified coach with The Coaches Training Institute and the ICF.  Order Nancy’s New Book: Drawing on two decades of experience with more than five thousand leaders, Nancy reveals how to prioritize health, strengthen relationships, reclaim time, and develop resilience. Order ‘It's Lonely at the Top: CEO Strategies for Inspiring Yourself and Your Team’ today: https://bit.ly/3OcBTQH  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/ 
• 
  How to Foster Human Connection: Insights from Leaders in Community Engagement 09.06.2026 39min

  In a world increasingly dominated by digital communication, the importance of human connection has never been more critical. Many of us find ourselves feeling isolated, despite being more connected than ever online.  In this podcast, Nancy MacKay speaks with Pete Bombacci, Founder of GenWell, and Joe Oswald, a former CEO and current MacKay CEO Forum Chair, on how to foster meaningful relationships that enhance our well-being. Pete Bombaci is a pioneering social change leader and the Founder and CEO of GenWell, a Canadian registered charity dedicated to fostering Canada’s Human Connection Movement since its inception in 2016. With an unwavering commitment to advancing social connection and social health, Pete leads GenWell’s mission to educate, empower, and catalyze Canadians around the critical role that social health plays in mental, physical, and societal well-being. GenWell’s work is grounded in growing global and public health evidence, and has been recognized by the World Health Organization, which identifies social connection as a foundational pillar of health and a powerful upstream solution to many of today’s most pressing challenges. Prior to founding GenWell, Pete served as Country Director of the Movember Canada Foundation, where, over five years, he helped raise $142 million for men’s health initiatives and led Canada to become Movember’s top fundraising country worldwide.  Joe Oswald is an Executive Coach and MacKay CEO Forum Chair who believes in the importance of creating one’s own future. In his view, success requires a combination of strategic thinking and intentional action. He has firsthand experience leading a team of over 250 professionals through the global pandemic and making a mid-career pivot to pursue a new path. As an experienced global President, Joe understands the value of strong leadership. He specializes in helping individuals develop energized, highly engaged teams that are focused on achieving organizational goals. What sets Joe apart is his extensive lived experience. Now, as a certified coach, he helps leaders set ambitious goals and provides the support they need to navigate challenges effectively.  Order Nancy’s New Book: Drawing on two decades of experience with more than five thousand leaders, Nancy reveals how to prioritize health, strengthen relationships, reclaim time, and develop resilience. Order ‘It's Lonely at the Top: CEO Strategies for Inspiring Yourself and Your Team’ today: https://bit.ly/3OcBTQH  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/ 
• 
  How to Overcome Loneliness as a CEO 27.05.2026 39min

  The role of a CEO is often seen as glamorous, but it comes with a unique set of challenges that can lead to profound feelings of isolation.  In this episode, Nancy MacKay speaks with Mark Becker, CEO of Dexterra Group, and Peter Aceto, a seasoned CEO and forum chair and strategic advisor at MacKay CEO Forums, discussing leadership, peer support, and the impact of AI on business. They share personal stories, strategies for overcoming loneliness at the top, and future trends shaping the industry. As CEO, Mark Becker guides the vision, culture, and performance of Dexterra Group in support of its strategy and growth objectives. He is passionate about people and enabling high-performance teams to succeed while delivering exemplary business outcomes. Prior to becoming CEO, Mark served as Dexterra Group’s Chief Operating Officer (COO). Before joining Dexterra Group, he held executive positions at Suncor Energy across operations, major projects, and corporate strategy. He began his career with Dow Chemical in a range of progressive roles throughout Canada and the United States. Peter Aceto is a three-time CEO, a MacKay CEO Forums Chair, and a Strategic Advisor to the CEO of MacKay CEO Forums. He works closely with CEOs navigating complexity, growth, and leadership inflection points. In parallel, he provides select CEO- and board-level advisory and consulting services through Aceto Leadership Performance, supporting organizations during periods of transformation, scale, and strategic reset. Peter was a founding member of Tangerine Bank’s (formerly ING Direct) senior leadership team and served as President and CEO from 2008 to 2017.  Order Nancy’s New Book: Drawing on two decades of experience with more than five thousand leaders, Nancy reveals how to prioritize health, strengthen relationships, reclaim time, and develop resilience. Order ‘It's Lonely at the Top: CEO Strategies for Inspiring Yourself and Your Team’ today: https://bit.ly/3OcBTQH  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/ 
• 
  The Role of Leadership in Growth 11.05.2026 28min

  In the latest episode of "It's Lonely at the Top," host Nancy MacKay engages in a captivating conversation with Iuliana Constantin, CFO of People Care Communities, and Anne Louise Bermingham, an esteemed Master Chair. Their discussion reveals not only the challenges faced by leaders in today’s business landscape but also the transformative journey of Iuliana from a small village in Romania to a significant leadership role in Canada. Iuliana Constantin is a strategic and purpose-driven finance leader with over two decades of experience in healthcare, real estate development, and multi-site operations. As Chief Financial Officer at peopleCareCommunities, she leads financial strategy, capital planning, and large-scale development initiatives. Iuliana believes that a leader’s responsibility is to bring innovation and collaboration to any successful enterprise. Recognized for her ability to bridge vision and execution, Iuliana builds empowered teams and drives organizational performance through accountability, transparency, and continuous improvement. Her leadership philosophy combines analytical rigor with a deep belief in people development and well-being as catalysts for sustainable growth. Iuliana is passionate about shaping the future of senior living, mentoring emerging leaders, and contributing to organizations that make a lasting impact in their communities. Anne Bermingham is a Certified Master Forum Chair and Modern Trusted Advisor at MacKay CEO Forums. Anne graduated from the University of Saskatchewan with a Masters in Applied Social Psychology, with the intention on helping organizations thrive, by improving the performance of their people. She worked for a national outplacement firm before starting her own successful consultancy – 2WA Consulting. She has been an entrepreneur and business owner since 1996. Anne's work is primarily in the fields of leadership and performance, with an emphasis on how to ensure people actually change their behaviour and attitudes in order tobe more effective. Sometimes she works with teams and other times the work is to help change the culture within an organization. She has worked in the private, public and not for profit sectors, spread across the telecommunications, manufacturing, social services, municipal, provincial and federal government sectors.  Order Nancy’s New Book: Drawing on two decades of experience with more than five thousand leaders, Nancy reveals how to prioritize health, strengthen relationships, reclaim time, and develop resilience. Order ‘It's Lonely at the Top: CEO Strategies for Inspiring Yourself and Your Team’ today: https://bit.ly/3OcBTQH  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/
• 
  Live from the Future of Business Summit: It’s Lonely at the Top 06.05.2026 30min

  In this special live episode of It’s Lonely at the Top, recorded at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Future of Business Summit, Nancy MacKay leads a powerful breakout room conversation on the realities of leadership today.From navigating uncertainty and decision fatigue to building resilience and finding support at the top, this episode brings together honest insights from business leaders who understand the pressures of leadership firsthand.Recorded live in front of summit attendees, this conversation highlights why connection, vulnerability, and peer support matter more than ever for CEOs and executives leading through change.Order Nancy’s New Book: Drawing on two decades of experience with more than five thousand leaders, Nancy reveals how to prioritize health, strengthen relationships, reclaim time, and develop resilience. Order ‘It's Lonely at the Top: CEO Strategies for Inspiring Yourself and Your Team’ today: https://bit.ly/3OcBTQH  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/ 
• 
  Transforming Challenges into Triumphs 28.04.2026 38min

  In the latest episode of the Lonely at the Top podcast, Nancy MacKay engages in a heartfelt conversation with Anand Inbasekaran and Laura Vaughan, two leaders who have navigated their own unique paths of personal and professional growth. Their stories remind us that even in the face of adversity, resilience, and a supportive community can pave the way to success. Anand Inbasekaran is a technology executive leading enterprise-scale Digital and AI transformation in complex, regulated environments. Anand is the VP, Process & Digital Transformation at CGA Group. With dual engineering degrees and an MBA in Strategy and Innovation from the Rotman School of Management, he combines systems thinking with disciplined execution. Anand is known for building resilient, high-performance teams and for turning bold ideas into scalable platforms that create real business impact. He brings an entrepreneurial mindset to large organizations—calm under pressure, clear in direction, and focused on long-term enterprise value. Laura Vaughan is the Ontario Regional Director and Chief Learning Officer at MacKay CEO Forums, where she plays a pivotal role in supporting and developing leaders. In these capacities, she is dedicated to fostering growth, collaboration, and continuous learning within the MacKay community. Beyond her leadership responsibilities, Laura chairs two CEO peer groups and one Executive peer group in Toronto, creating dynamic environments where senior leaders can connect, share insights, and accelerate both personal and organizational success. Laura is also the CEO of carrythe3 inc., enabling the world’s Managers and their CEOs to build and lead more abundant workplaces. 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/ 
• 
  How Top Leaders Overcome Loneliness in Leadership 13.04.2026 31min

  In the latest episode of the "It's Lonely at the Top" podcast, host Nancy MacKay, alongside guests Dana Filippetto and Mike Joseph, discuss the challenges of leadership and the importance of building a supportive community. Their candid discussion reveals practical strategies for overcoming the isolation that often accompanies high-level positions. Mike Joseph is a big-picture individual who loves connecting with people. Working with CEO’s and executive teams to develop short and long-term strategies, he has a broad network of contacts in and out of multiple industries- both local and international. Over the past 20 years, Mike has built, owned and operated over 25 hospitality-related businesses. His expertise lies in mid-size entrepreneurial firms with a focus on growth, leadership, and building world-class cultures. Mike is authentic, dynamic, comedic, and intuitive – also impatient, impulsive, and self-deprecating. Self-awareness is front and center. Accountable and organized. Public speaker, avid student, and always looking to find a better way. In his free time, Mike enjoys travelling to interesting new places, cooking for friends and family, drinking red wine, and smoking the occasional Cuban cigar. Dania Filippetto is the founder and owner of a multi-location RV dealership and brings over three decades of experience in the RV and automotive industry. As the only woman founder and owner of an RV dealership in Canada, she has built and led teams across sales, finance, service, and operations in an environment where the responsibility — and the risk — ultimately stops with her. Known for her direct leadership style and focus on accountability, Dania has spent years turning complex, high-pressure operations into structured, sustainable businesses. She understands firsthand the isolation that comes with leadership — making difficult decisions, carrying financial and people risk, and navigating challenges few others see. Outside of work, Dania is a mother of twin boys, balancing the demands of leadership with family life, and openly acknowledges the personal weight that comes with being “at the top.” 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/ 
• 
  Navigating the CIO Journey: Insights from Industry Leaders 01.04.2026 32min

  In an ever-evolving tech landscape, the role of Chief Information Officer (CIO) has become increasingly complex and crucial for organizational success. Nancy MacKay interviews Jim Black and Tony Balasubramanian, exploring the challenges and triumphs faced by CIOs today. This conversation not only sheds light on their personal journeys but also emphasizes the importance of mentorship and peer support within the tech community.  Jim Black serves as Chief Information Officer at FYihealth group, where he drives technological innovation as a senior technology and digital business executive. He is a member of FYihealth group’s Executive Committee and chairs the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Advisory Committee, which governs and prioritizes AI investments across the organization. Jim brings over 20 years of leadership experience spanning three industries at the CIO level, now focused on advancing technology in the vision care and optical industry. His company, FYihealth group, is Canada's largest optometric network with over 370 clinics and retail stores across the country. Doctor-led, professionally managed, and patient-focused, their organization delivers outstanding eye care with patient-centric products and services. Their brands include FYidoctors, Visique, BonLook, and Solis Optics. Tony Balasubramanian is a MacKay CEO Forums chair and a seasoned strategic executive and trusted advisor with over three decades of experience operating at the critical intersection of business and technology. With a global portfolio spanning Canada, the U.S., Europe, Asia, South America, and beyond, he has advised Fortune 500 companies, mid-market firms, and public sector organizations, guiding them through complex transformations, technology integrations, and leadership development. 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/ 
• 
  From Immigrant Roots to Industry Leader: How CEOs Find Strength Through Peer Support 18.03.2026 37min

  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/ 
• 
  The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership 03.03.2026 35min

  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/ 
• 
  The Journey of a Social Purpose Entrepreneur 17.02.2026 33min

  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. 
• 
  The Journey from HR to CEO: Insights from Jay-Ann Gilfoy 03.02.2026 34min

  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 GroupMacKay 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/
• 
  Navigating Leadership Loneliness: Hear from Sushant Trivedi and Nico Human 20.01.2026 34min

  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/
• 
  #30: How to Surround Yourselves with Smarter People. Hear from Chris Taylor, CEO of Actionable.co 06.11.2024 23min

  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
• 
  #29: From Success-Driven Childhood to CEO, hear from Louise Hendey, CEO of Erickson Coaching International 16.10.2024 25min

  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 
• 
  #28: From Retail Clerk to CEO: David Poirier on Growth, Peer Learning, and Leading The Poirier Group 02.10.2024 23min

  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
• 
  #27: How do you consistently grow your business? Hear from Cameron Herold, Former COO, 1-800-Got-Junk?, and Founder of COO Alliance 18.09.2024 24min

  Cameron Herold is the founder of the COO Alliance and the Invest In Your Leaders Course, not to mention the author of six books, including "Vivid Vision" and "The Second In Command." As the former COO of 1-800-Got-Junk?, he took the company from $2 million to a staggering $106 million in revenue, and from 14 to 3,100 employees, all in just six years. Cameron is no stranger to the global stage. He's a top-rated international speaker who's been paid to share his wisdom in 26 countries and on all 7 continents, including Antarctica! With the nickname "CEO Whisperer," Cameron is known for helping his clients double their profits and revenue in just three years or less. TODAY'S BOOK RECOMMENDATION: ⁠'The Second in Command: Unleash the Power of Your COO', By Cameron Herold JOIN A MACKAY CEO FORUMS 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
• 
  #26: Leadership Unveiled: A Conversation with Sara Daw, Group CEO of The CFO Centre 04.09.2024 22min

  Join us in this episode as we sit down with Sara Daw, the Group CEO of The CFO Centre. With over 19 years at The CFO Centre, Sara has spearheaded the growth of her organizations, revolutionizing the landscape of C-suite services across 17 countries. A graduate in Chemistry from Oxford University, Sara's journey from Chartered Accountant at Deloitte to earning an MBA from The London Business School, and most recently, a Specialized Masters in Consulting and Coaching for Change jointly run by Oxford University and HEC Paris, showcases her relentless pursuit of knowledge and expertise. As the author of "Strategy and Leadership as Service: How the Access Economy Meets the C-Suite" (published with Routledge) and co-author of "Executive Freedom" (2019), Sara offers invaluable insights into the evolving dynamics of leadership in the modern era. But beyond her professional achievements, Sara opens up about her personal life, sharing stories of her 25-year marriage to Andrew and her pride in raising three almost grown-up daughters. Tune in as Sara Daw shares her journey, wisdom, and passion for leadership, offering inspiration and guidance for aspiring leaders everywhere. TODAY'S BOOK RECOMMENDATION: ‘⁠Strategy and Leadership as Service: How the Access Economy Meets the C-Suite’, by today’s podcast guest, Sara Daw.  JOIN A MACKAY CEO FORUMS 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