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In this special episode of Gale Force Wins, guest host Spencer Carew sits down in Kassel, Germany with his host Mark Kohler—an architect and entrepreneur—to explore life, business, and culture through an international lens. Mark shares his journey from freelancing to leading a firm of 25 employees, designing schools and public buildings, and even transforming a historic swimming pool into a vibrant office and event space. The conversation dives into architecture as a tool for community building, the value of hosting international students, the challenges of Germany’s labour market, and the importance of work-life balance. With reflections on creativity, burnout, and what makes Germany’s quality of life so unique, this cross-cultural exchange is both thoughtful and inspiring.

Timestamps:

0:00 – Welcome to Gale Force Wins Season 5
0:15 – Introduction to the episode: Spencer in Kassel, Germany
0:52 – What excites Mark about the future of Kassel
1:27 – Why Mark became an architect
2:31 – The value of hosting international students
3:30 – First impressions of Germany and opportunity for youth
3:56 – The biggest challenge of running a business in Germany
4:44 – Where Mark sees himself in 5–10 years
5:28 – How Mark built his architecture career
6:38 – Transforming an old swimming pool into an office and event space
7:39 – Breathing new life into heritage buildings
8:48 – Current sustainable projects: all-wood school gymnasium
9:54 – Favourite spaces to design
10:42 – Discipline, deadlines, and burnout in architecture
12:14 – The importance of self-awareness and stamina
13:19 – Canada vs. Europe: work-life balance and creativity
14:30 – Creating beauty where there’s scarcity
15:31 – Germany’s quality of life and its impact on business
16:14 – Wrapping up the interview
17:10 – Thank you for watching Gale Force Wins

Gale Force Wins started out simply as an inspirational podcast releasing episodes wherever you get your podcasts every Tuesday evening. We continue to do that every Tuesday but have expanded into custom content for clients. We also have perfected a conference and trade show offering where you can receive over 20 videos edited and posted to social media at the same time the event is unfolding.

For businesses and organizations we also create digital content quickly and efficiently.
Visit our services page here:
https://galeforcewins.com/services

To message Gerry visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrycarew/

To message Allan visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allanadale/

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In this inspiring episode of Gale Force Wins, we sit down with Aisha Umar, the newly appointed Chief Operating Officer of Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador. Originally from Nigeria, Aisha shares her remarkable journey through Kentucky to St. John’s, where she found both a community and a calling. We explore her academic background, love for social enterprise, and deep commitment to community-driven work. Aisha opens up about overcoming cultural challenges, building a life in Newfoundland, and stepping into leadership with purpose and passion. This is a story of bold moves, big impact, and the power of belonging.

Timestamps – Aisha Umar | Hospitality NL

00:00 – Welcome to Gale Force Wins Season 5
00:50 – Meet Aisha Umar, COO of Hospitality NL
01:17 – From Nigeria to Kentucky to Newfoundland
02:35 – First impressions & surviving Snowmageddon
04:08 – Growing up in Nigeria: family, values, and early life
06:00 – Business lessons from mom & dad
08:51 – Academic journey: degrees in accounting & finance
12:00 – Culture shock & adapting to Kentucky
14:39 – Discovering Memorial University’s MBA in Social Enterprise
20:00 – Moving to Newfoundland for education and staying for community
24:25 – Snowmageddon: the turning point
26:00 – Small cohort, big support at MUN
28:30 – Career path: nonprofit work & government roles
30:30 – The value of mentorship
33:10 – Embracing Newfoundland’s hospitality & giving back
34:50 – New role as COO of Hospitality Newfoundland and Labrador
36:04 – Representation, responsibility, and love for tourism
39:04 – Vision for supporting the province’s tourism industry
42:01 – A rising tide: collaboration and optimism
44:00 – What excites her most about the road ahead
46:05 – Final advice: “Do it even if you are afraid. Enjoy the ride.”

Gale Force Wins started out simply as an inspirational podcast releasing episodes wherever you get your podcasts every Tuesday evening. We continue to do that every Tuesday but have expanded into custom content for clients. We also have perfected a conference and trade show offering where you can receive over 20 videos edited and posted to social media at the same time the event is unfolding.

For businesses and organizations we also create digital content quickly and efficiently.
Visit our services page here:
https://galeforcewins.com/services

To message Gerry visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrycarew/

To message Allan visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allanadale/

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In this episode, we sit down with Mia Francis, the dynamic founder of Chic Celebrations NL, a business focused on event planning, decorating, and creating unforgettable experiences. Mia takes us on a journey through her entrepreneurial path, sharing her background growing up in Birmingham, UK, and transitioning to life in Canada.

She talks about how her family and early experiences sparked her entrepreneurial spirit and the challenges she faced in starting her own business. From running a juice stand at 18 to working in the aviation industry, Mia’s story is filled with valuable lessons on resilience, hard work, and the power of following your passion.

0:00 - Introduction
0:54 - Mia discusses her business at Chic Celebrations NL
1:01 - Mia explains her event planning and decorating services
1:18 - Overview of Chic workshops and events
1:31 - Discussion of the event space and its character
2:00 - Mia talks about her upbringing in Birmingham, UK
2:19 - Transition to life in Goose Bay, Canada
2:43 - Mia’s parents’ background and their influence on her
3:01 - Entrepreneurial inspiration from her grandparents
3:37 - Mia shares her entrepreneurial drive and the moment of starting her business
4:29 - Growing up in the UK and the transition to life in Canada
5:01 - Mia describes life in Birmingham and its combination of city and countryside
6:06 - Adjusting to life in Goose Bay and the impact on Mia’s entrepreneurial mindset
8:02 - Mia’s early entrepreneurial ventures and the juice stand she started
10:00 - Discussing her role in the aviation industry and its impact on her business mindset
13:02 - Mia talks about her experience in the aviation industry and meeting influential people
13:57 - Pivoting during the pandemic and how it shaped her journey
16:04 - Transition to working in Nunavut and the remote work experience
17:10 - Mia shares her return to St. John’s after her time in Nunavut
18:05 - Mia’s move to St. John’s and the start of her business venture
19:06 - Introduction to Chic Socials and its range of services
19:46 - Mia’s unique approach to events and creating memorable experiences
21:30 - Hosting social events, workshops, and collaborations with local businesses
22:45 - The future growth of Chic Socials and upcoming summer events
23:51 - Challenges and the importance of community involvement in business
25:51 - Mia talks about Newfoundland hospitality and its influence on her
27:04 - Mia compares her life in Newfoundland with her time in the UK
28:04 - Future plans for Chic Socials and business aspirations
29:08 - Mia discusses the entrepreneurial leap and overcoming self-doubt
31:13 - The importance of motivation and staying focused on business goals
33:59 - Mia’s advice to others about embracing the entrepreneurial journey
36:03 - Final thoughts from Mia on staying motivated in business

Gale Force Wins started out simply as an inspirational podcast releasing episodes wherever you get your podcasts every Tuesday evening. We continue to do that every Tuesday but have expanded into custom content for clients. We also have perfected a conference and trade show offering where you can receive over 20 videos edited and posted to social media at the same time the event is unfolding.

For businesses and organizations we also create digital content quickly and efficiently.
Visit our services page here:
https://galeforcewins.com/services

To message Gerry visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrycarew/

To message Allan visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allanadale/

Send us a text

Michael Cojocar is a Canadian born Architect and entrepreneur based in Budapest. He has designed countless buildings in and around Hungary. This is a very interesting conversation recorded in the Canadian Embassy in Budapest for which Michael was the architect. This is one of a series of conversations with Canadians living in Budapest that Allan and Gerry recorded in November of 2022. This trip was facilitated by Dr. Judit Lovas who also served as guest host for each interview. We have been holding on to many of these interviews to release over time. To watch the other interviews to which more will be added over the coming months visit: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_i21kubdZSj6nijDs-tHaW9T1vRHscXS

Gale Force Wins started out simply as an inspirational podcast releasing episodes wherever you get your podcasts every Tuesday evening. We continue to do that every Tuesday but have expanded into custom content for clients. We also have perfected a conference and trade show offering where you can receive over 20 videos edited and posted to social media at the same time the event is unfolding.

For businesses and organizations we also create digital content quickly and efficiently.
Visit our services page here:
https://galeforcewins.com/services

To message Gerry visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrycarew/

To message Allan visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allanadale/

Send us a text

In this episode of we feature two bright young business students, Russell Noseworthy and Nathan Young, who are just beginning their journeys in the business world. They share their experiences, inspirations, and insights into the student-managed investment fund at Memorial University, as well as their participation and two year back to back first place wins in the prestigious Van Burkom case competition.

0:00 – Introduction to Gale Force Wins Season 5
0:11 – Gerry discusses the podcast's origin and how this episode features two guests at the beginning of their journey.
0:35 – Welcome to Russell Noseworthy and Nathan Young
1:22 – Russell introduces himself and his background
2:23 – Nathan introduces himself and shares his background
3:01 – Nathan talks about his inspiration for studying business
3:55 – Russell discusses his inspiration for choosing business over engineering
4:46 – Russell reflects on his personal interests and volunteering experiences
5:32 – Russell and Nathan discuss the student-managed investment fund
6:11 – The growth of the fund from $150,000 to $400,000
7:02 – Russell and Nathan discuss the real-world skills gained through the fund
8:02 – Mentors involved with the fund
8:50 – Russell and Nathan reflect on the fund’s performance during volatile market conditions
9:22 – Russell and Nathan talk about the importance of sticking to long-term strategies
10:16 – The roles of students involved in the fund
11:03 – Nathan shares how the fund has shaped his career
11:37 – Russell explains his role and responsibilities as a co-portfolio manager
12:03 – The role of faculty advisers and the support from Memorial University
12:53 – Russell explains the growth and goals of the student-managed fund
13:42 – Nathan reflects on his experience and the connections made through the fund
14:11 – Russell talks about the plans for growing the fund to $1 million
15:04 – Participation in the Van Berkom case competition
15:53 – The annual industry trip for senior members of the fund
16:05 – Russell and Nathan discuss the preparations for the case competition
17:12 – The experience of preparing for the competition
19:09 – Russell and Nathan talk about their first time competing in the Van Burkham case competition
34:02 – Russell talks about how the team celebrated after the competition
37:00 – Reflecting on their success in representing Newfoundland and Labrador and Memorial University
39:31 – Nathan talks about being awarded the Frank H. Sobey Award for excellence in business
41:07 – Russell shares his future plans after graduation
42:13 – Nathan talks about his job offer in Toronto and plans to stay connected with Newfoundland and Labrador
43:07 – Nathan and Russell reflect on the importance of business in the community
44:23 – Perspectives on the future of business and sustainability in Newfoundland and Labrador

Gale Force Wins started out simply as an inspirational podcast releasing episodes wherever you get your podcasts every Tuesday evening. We continue to do that every Tuesday but have expanded into custom content for clients. We also have perfected a conference and trade show offering where you can receive over 20 videos edited and posted to social media at the same time the event is unfolding.

For businesses and organizations we also create digital content quickly and efficiently.
Visit our services page here:
https://galeforcewins.com/services

To message Gerry visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrycarew/

To message Allan visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allanadale/

Send us a text

Peter Mansbridge joined #GaleForceWins in November 2024 at the National Association of Career Colleges conference. In this special flashback episode of #GaleForceWins, Allan Dale is joined by the legendary Peter Mansbridge at the National Association of Career Colleges conference in November 2024. Peter, renowned for his impactful journalism and role in shaping Canadian media, discusses the critical contribution of private regulated career colleges to Canada’s workforce and economy.

As they explore the current job market, Peter reflects on the significance of career colleges in shaping the future of work in Canada, sharing insights from his book How Canada Works. But the conversation doesn’t stop there – Peter also takes a moment to reflect on what it means to be Canadian, the collaborative spirit of our country, and how Canada’s global reputation stands as a beacon of kindness and compassion.

Join us for this engaging conversation that combines insights on education, career development, and what makes Canada such a unique place in the world.

0:00 – Welcome back to Gale Force Wins Season 5
0:13 – Gerry Carew gives an intro and indicates this will be a flashback episode
1:00 – Re-visiting the interview with Peter Mansbridge
1:18 – Alan Dale's introduction at the NACC conference
1:49 – Introduction of Peter Mansbridge
2:01 – Peter Mansbridge talks about career colleges and job market
2:44 – Discussion on how people find jobs and career colleges’ role
3:09 – Peter talks about his book "How Canada Works"
4:01 – Importance of real jobs in Canada
4:47 – The role of career colleges in shaping Canada's workforce
5:13 – Alan talks about collaboration among 300 colleges
6:01 – Peter discusses Canada’s ability to collaborate despite differences
7:00 – Peter reflects on the goodness in people at the NACC conference
7:50 – Peter shares his pride in being Canadian and the global view of Canada
8:32 – Peter emphasizes Canada’s global reputation and the importance of helping others
8:44 – Closing remarks and thanks to Peter Mansbridge
8:51 – End of episode

Gale Force Wins started out simply as an inspirational podcast releasing episodes wherever you get your podcasts every Tuesday evening. We continue to do that every Tuesday but have expanded into custom content for clients. We also have perfected a conference and trade show offering where you can receive over 20 videos edited and posted to social media at the same time the event is unfolding.

For businesses and organizations we also create digital content quickly and efficiently.
Visit our services page here:
https://galeforcewins.com/services

To message Gerry visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrycarew/

To message Allan visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allanadale/

Send us a text

Gale Force Wins: A Farewell Conversation with Premier Dr. Andrew Furey

In this episode of Gale Force Wins, Gerry Carew and Alan Dale sit down with Premier Andrew Furey for a heartfelt and wide-ranging conversation as he prepares to step down and return to his surgical career.

Premier Furey reflects on the emotional night he became Premier, the challenges of leading during a pandemic and fiscal crisis, and the major milestones his government achieved — from Muskrat Falls negotiations and fiscal recovery to healthcare transformation, education reform, green energy development, and bringing the Unknown Soldier home.
He speaks candidly about the importance of teamwork, service, and staying true to a long-term vision amidst the daily noise of politics. Premier Furey also shares his pride in Newfoundland and Labrador’s future, his excitement for returning to medicine, and his lasting message of optimism to the people of the province.
An emotional, inspiring, and historic conversation you won’t want to miss.
0:00 – Introduction
0:29 –The night DR. Andrew Furey became Premier: emotions and family impact
2:08 – First day as Premier: pandemic, fiscal crisis, Muskrat Falls
3:50 – Building a leadership vision during crisis
5:01 – Key priorities: fiscal stewardship, Muskrat Falls, demographics, energy, innovation, healthcare
6:46 – Transitioning from surgery to politics
7:59 – Teamwork lessons from medicine applied to leadership
9:39 – Urging more professionals to enter politics
10:27 – Importance of public service
12:10 – Emotional experience of repatriating the Unknown Soldier
16:20 – Public reaction at repatriation ceremony
17:47 – Reflection on leadership: leaving the province better
20:05 – Major achievements: Muskrat Falls deal, financial turnaround, Future Fund
22:08 – Economic diversification: hydrogen, tech, critical minerals
23:06 – Health care reform: single health authority, ambulance services, family care teams
24:23 – Poverty reduction and targeted basic income programs
26:04 – Pride in accomplishments and momentum for the province
28:04 – Education investments: new exams, curriculum updates
29:53 – Churchill Falls renegotiation: strategic approach and success
32:33 – Structure of new Churchill Falls deal explained
36:39 – Transparency and public consultation on Churchill deal
38:10 – A combination of lessons learned from past mistakes
39:00 – Returning to surgery: renewed appreciation for medicine
40:12 – Future possibilities beyond politics
40:36 – Final message to Newfoundland and Labrador: optimism and pride
42:46 – Closing remarks

Gale Force Wins started out simply as an inspirational podcast releasing episodes wherever you get your podcasts every Tuesday evening. We continue to do that every Tuesday but have expanded into custom content for clients. We also have perfected a conference and trade show offering where you can receive over 20 videos edited and posted to social media at the same time the event is unfolding.

For businesses and organizations we also create digital content quickly and efficiently.
Visit our services page here:
https://galeforcewins.com/services

To message Gerry visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrycarew/

To message Allan visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allanadale/

Send us a text

In this episode of Gale Force Wins, host Gerry sits down with the talented visual artist and former competitive figure skater, Roselle Doyle. Roselle shares her incredible journey, from her early days in Montreal, where she fell in love with figure skating, to competing at elite levels in Canada and England. She opens up about the challenges she faced in her skating career, including a career-changing injury, and how that ultimately led her to transition into the world of art.

Roselle discusses how her figure skating background influences her vibrant, kinetic painting style, and how she found a new creative outlet during the COVID-19 pandemic. After moving to Newfoundland, Roselle's art has continued to evolve, incorporating local landscapes and a whimsical puffin series. She talks about her passion for creating art that brings joy to others and shares her insights on how to embrace creativity and pursue what you love.

Through her story, Roselle encourages others to follow their creative passions and create from the heart. You can also learn more about Roselle’s artwork and connect with her through her social media and website.

Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring stories from Gale Force Wins!

0:00 - Introduction to the episode
0:10 - Guest Roselle Doyle introduction
0:24 - How Gerry found Roselle through social media
1:04 - Roselle introduces herself as a visual artist
1:35 - Roselle discusses her background in figure skating
2:37 - Gerry shares his own figure skating background
3:01 - Roselle talks about growing up in Montreal
4:03 - Roselle’s early experiences with figure skating
4:52 - Roselle’s first competition
6:03 - Pressure of rising through the ranks in figure skating
6:21 - Roselle’s figure skating progression
7:13 - Roselle moves to England and the challenges she faced
8:03 - Returning to Canada and transitioning to artistry
9:01 - Transition from competitive skating to choreographing
10:18 - Roselle choreographs for Brian Orser
13:04 - Choreographing for large-scale shows
14:23 - Transition into the world of art and performance
18:11 - Roselle begins focusing on visual art
19:07 - The shift to painting full-time during COVID
20:00 - Roselle discusses her move to Newfoundland
23:01 - Roselle’s art style and inspiration
25:01 - Roselle’s first acrylic painting and its inspiration
27:02 - Showcasing her art at markets and pop-up stores
30:06 - Interaction with tourists at her pop-up store
32:47 - Transition from skating to art and finding new creative outlets
35:39 - Roselle’s art inspirations and journey
40:09 - Advice on following creative passions
42:23 - The importance of creating from the heart
45:05 - Roselle’s social media and online presence
46:03 - Website and social media details
47:44 - Closing remarks and thank you

Gale Force Wins started out simply as an inspirational podcast releasing episodes wherever you get your podcasts every Tuesday evening. We continue to do that every Tuesday but have expanded into custom content for clients. We also have perfected a conference and trade show offering where you can receive over 20 videos edited and posted to social media at the same time the event is unfolding.

For businesses and organizations we also create digital content quickly and efficiently.
Visit our services page here:
https://galeforcewins.com/services

To message Gerry visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrycarew/

To message Allan visit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allanadale/