Across the Yard Podcast

On this episode of Across the Yard, we sit down with Amy Seier, founder of Winnipeg’s The Community Gym, to explore entrepreneurship, creative marketing, and what it takes to build a business through unexpected challenges. An inspiring conversation about leadership, resilience, and the power of building a brand that stands out. ────────────────── This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Learn more at hilinetreated.com ────────────────── This episode is also brought to you by Sexton Group, your partner in building stronger business, together. Learn more at www.sextongroup.com

On this episode of Across the Yard, we sit down with Will Robins, PGA professional, golf coach, and CEO of RGX Coaching, to explore resilience, personal growth, and what it takes to keep moving forward when life doesn’t go to plan. An honest conversation about leadership, resilience, and finding a better way forward, both on and off the course. ────────────────── This episode of Across the Yard is brought to you by HiLine Treated wood by West Fraser. Elevate inventory, elevate sales. Learn more at hilinetreated.com ────────────────── This episode is also brought to you by Sexton Group, your partner in building stronger business, together. Learn more at www.sextongroup.com

A retired CIA agent once told Liz that this industry has it backwards: it isn't unglamorous, it's essential, the materials behind every home, restaurant, and space where people build their lives. That reframe kicks off a milestone conversation. This is Across the Yard's 100th episode, and Liz sits down with four of Supply-Build Canada's newest board members: Jesse Watson of QuikTherm, Brady Wilk of Integrity Building Products, Helen Smith of Star Building Materials, and Eddie Cho of Trimlite, for a wide-ranging look at where the association has been and where it's headed. In this episode, you'll learn: - How the...

Everyone says they have "the best product at the best price." The problem is, everyone says that, so nobody hears it anymore. In this episode, Liz sits down with Sandra Possik of The Caulking Store and Tony Silveira of Ferronox Tools, two Canadian companies whose manufacturer-distributor partnership has become a case study in what it actually takes to stand out in a category most people assume has no personality at all. In this episode, you'll learn: - Why The Caulking Store decided to lean fully into the jokes that come with its name instead of tiptoeing around them, and how...

What if the story you were taught about forests was wrong? For 40 years, an entire generation grew up believing that logging destroys nature and forests are disappearing — but forest growth has outpaced harvest every single year, and there are far more trees across North America today than there used to be. In this episode, Allison DeFord, Executive Director of the North American Forest Foundation (NAFF), joins Liz for round two to unpack why the industry stayed quiet about that truth for so long, and what it's costing the workforce today. In this episode, you'll learn: - Why Allison compares substitute ma...

Many businesses employ Temporary Foreign Workers, but the processes involved are often overwhelming and convoluted. In this episode, Liz sits down with Ivanna Didyk, Managing Partner of Barbican Immigration and a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC), to break down what's actually changed with Canada's Termporary Foreign Worker Program, why old timelines no longer work, and the underused pathways that can save employers real time and money. In this episode, you'll learn: - Why employers now need to plan for work permit expirations 18–24 months in advance, not 12. - How treaty exemptions (with countries like Chile, Argentina, and Ukraine) and the French Mo...

Every marketer is being told to "use AI," but few are talking about what it's doing to how customers discover and stay loyal to brands. In this episode, Liz sits down with Chris Parsons, author of Retail Rewired and a 25-year retail marketing veteran with leadership experience at Walmart, dwag.com, and Home Hardware, to discuss AI, AEO, and how businesses can win in this fast-changing environment. In this episode, you'll learn: - What Chris calls the "AI Moment of Discovery" and why it's changing how customers find brands they'd never have considered before. - How AI-driven search is quietly...

There's a whole system of layers hiding inside every wall, roof, and foundation that most people don't know about. In this episode, Liz sits down with a panel from Johns Manville: Dwight Stone, Building Enclosure Consultant; Jesus Perez Orozco, Specifier Services Representative; and JR Babineau, Sr. Research Manager of Building Sciences in Corporate R&D. In this episode, you'll learn: - Why building envelope design has grown more complex (and what that means for builders and architects). - How infrared imaging and air barrier testing reveal whether a building was put together the way it was designed. - What Canada’s...

Dan White, CEO and co-founder of Gentian, and Haleigh Callison, founder and CEO of Takoda Consulting and team lead for Cedar Sales at Western Forest Products, join Across the Yard to explore how satellite imagery and AI are changing the way we understand and manage forests. From identifying tree species at scale to detecting pest infestations before they spread, this conversation is a crash course in where forestry data is headed and why it matters. In this episode, you'll learn how species-level data can support forestry decision-making, why hyperspectral imagery could help detect pest infestations like mountain pine beetle earlier...

What if the secret to customer loyalty isn't going above and beyond, but simply doing exactly what you said you would? We sit down with Marc Gordon, an internationally recognized customer experience expert dubbed "Canada's customer service superstar" by the Oprah Winfrey Network, to break down what drives customer behaviour and why so much conventional wisdom on the subject is wrong. In this episode, you'll learn the real difference between customer care, customer support, and customer service (and why most people use these terms incorrectly), why "underpromise and overdeliver" can quietly backfire on your business, and how independent retailers can...

Alberta has one of the highest youth unemployment rates in the country, yet many building supply businesses are struggling to find their next generation of talent. In this episode, we sit down with Stefan Rutkowski, President & CEO of CAREERS: The Next Generation, and Claudio Quinteros, Regional Manager, to explore how paid, school-supported internships are bridging that gap. In this episode, they discuss: • CAREERS does and how it connects high school youth to industry-based work experience • Why so many students don't know what career paths exist beyond university, and how parents and teachers shape (and sometimes limit) those choices • How CAREERS builds...

Building something new sounds exciting until the market shifts, regulations change, the plan stops working, and you have to start again. This one gets into what it actually takes to build a Canadian manufacturing business and keep it standing when everything around you changes. Jesse Watson and Ryan Cullen join Liz Kovach to share the story behind Quik-Therm's evolution, from identifying a gap in the market to navigating code changes, rethinking products, and continuously adapting to create solutions that worked for both performance and practicality. In this episode, they discuss: • How Quik-Therm started and the original idea that launched the bu...

Every equipment decision your operation makes carries real cost. The shift to electric forklifts is one of the biggest ones you'll face, and making it without the right information can set you back. This episode gives you the full picture. Shaun Casement, Director of Business Development at HELI Canada, joins Liz to break down: - What the switch from propane to electric actually costs - Why lithium batteries are becoming the industry standard - The mistakes most businesses make when transitioning their fleet - How electric equipment is improving efficiency and cutting maintenance costs - Why operator training matters more...

Nav Singh left city life behind to buy and rebuild a struggling hardware store in Leader, Saskatchewan. This episode is about resilience, risk-taking, and what it really means to build both a business and a community from the ground up. In this episode, Nav sits down with Liz to share his journey from immigrating to Canada at 18, to working construction jobs across Western Canada before stepping into entrepreneurship. He opens up about the setbacks, financial uncertainty, and steep learning curve of running a small-town hardware store where the owner wears every hat, from cashier and delivery driver to estimator and...

Marketing is louder, faster, and more measurable than ever, but does that actually make it better? This episode is about building a brand people feel something for, not just one that converts. In this episode, Stephen Bailey, Chief Marketing Officer at John Fluevog Shoes, sits down with Liz to unpack what it really takes to stand out in today’s crowded market. Drawing on more than 20 years with one of Canada’s most unconventional retail brands, Stephen shares why differentiation isn’t about having the best price or product, it’s about having the courage to be distinct. From embracing “weirdness”...

After the sudden passing of their father in 2020, sisters Melissa Jensen, Marissa Wolfe and Kristie Mueller faced the challenge of stepping into a leadership role at their third-generation family-owned business. This episode is about growing through that transition and how it earned them a nomination for the Supply-Build Canada 135 Forge & Form Gala’s Women of Influence award. In this episode, you’ll learn what goes behind the scenes of what goes on in a family-owned business when transitioning ownership. You’ll learn how these ladies got to learn their role and how to support the business, especially when Marissa and Kristi...

If you’re running a retail yard or building centre, you don’t have time for trends that don’t translate to the bottom line. This episode is about a model that has quietly delivered for nearly 50 years. Rob Forbes built Exchange-A-Blade Tool Company on a straightforward idea: contractors bring in used blades, get credit, and leave with remanufactured ones on the spot. No waiting. No landfill. Just a system that keeps jobs moving and brings customers back through your doors. In this episode, you’ll hear how the exchange model creates repeat traffic and gives dealers a clear, simple answer t...

This week’s episode is recommended for anyone interested in innovative ways to recycle and reduce waste in construction or using reclaimed wood. Have you ever wondered what happens to the wood from demolished homes? What if much of it could be recovered and put back into use? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with Jay Sanderson, President & Operations Lead at Northmark Materials Ltd., to explore the growing role of reclaimed wood in the supply chain. They dive into the process of reclaimed wood, how advocacy can play a role, and how this wood...

Long known as a male-dominated field, the lumber industry is undergoing meaningful change — but what does that transformation actually look like? Who is leading it, and how? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with Kaitlyn and Lauren Chimko, Lumber Traders, Partners at Dakeryn Industries, and recipients of the Women of Influence Award at the 135 Forge & Form Gala. Together, they share their journey into the industry through their family roots, what life as a lumber trader really looks like, and how WOLF (Women of Lumber and Forestry) was founded to create stronger representation, connection, and...

This episode is for anyone in the forestry and building materials industries who are interested in attracting more youth or general public into the industry, and how you can get involved in the effort. The industry is facing a significant skills gap due to a lack of youth interest and new hires, but people are taking action. So, what can we do about it? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with Allison DeFord, Executive Director at the North American Forest Foundation (NAFF), to discuss NAFF’s initiatives on educating the public about the fore...

Today’s episode is a must-listen for anyone working in a lumberyard—or in sales of any kind. Have you ever stepped into your customers’ shoes to see your business from their point of view? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with Marc Atiyolil, designer, builder and co-host of The Marc & Mandy Show, to explore the pain points manufacturers are still facing today, the importance of delivering a strong customer experience and how that experience can lead into meaningful, long-term relationships. Along with how media training can be valuable in any environment, even in the l...

Today’s episode is for anyone in sales or marketing, old school, new school, or somewhere in between, as well as anyone preparing to exhibit at a trade show. No matter your experience, you’ll walk away with something useful. Have you ever felt stagnant in your style of work or struggled to find success in it? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with returning guest R.M. Caligiuri, CEO, lecturer, and keynote speaker at Caligiuri Leadership, to break down old school vs. new school sales and marketing tactics: what works, what doesn’t, and e...

Today’s episode is recommended for anyone who aspires to lead or is ready to step up their game. Have you ever wondered what “real leadership” looks like in today’s workplaces? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with Eileen Dooley and Wahaj Awad, Principal & Coach and Consultant at Humance, to explore the latest shifts in leadership, with emotional intelligence taking center stage. They also dive into what accountability really means and navigating through tough conversations and challenging situations with clarity and confidence. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about growth, resilience, and the everyd...

Today’s episode is recommended for Retail leaders, managers, and business owners navigating change. Anyone who’s ever had to lead when confidence wavered or the path wasn’t clear. Have you ever had to navigate yourself in a high-stakes environment? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with Holly Stofa, a former CIA Operator to a High-Performance Leadership Coach, to explore Holly’s extraordinary journey from the world of espionage to the realm of leadership and personal growth. Together, they dive into what it takes to thrive in high-stakes environments: creating meaningful relationships through tr...

Welcome to Supply-Build Canada’s first-ever Golf Confessional — a special Thanksgiving episode packed with laughter, stories, and a few surprises from this year’s golf tournaments. Whether it’s a secret swing tip, an unexpected victory, or a bit of on-course drama, we’ve gathered the best (and worst) golf moments from members and guests across Western Canada. Expect a mix of humor, honesty, and a few tales of golf-gone-wrong — all in good fun and completely anonymous. Tune in for laughs, lessons, and maybe a little redemption for your own game.

Welcome to Supply-Build Canada’s first ever Golf Confessional, bringing you the juiciest confessions from the golf tournaments hosted this year!

In the building supply industry, travel comes with the territory. Whether you’re a sales associate visiting job sites or a manager attending conferences, you’re often on the move because this industry thrives on connection and relationships. But what happens when the unexpected strikes on the road? Lost baggage, flight delays, or a medical emergency abroad — travel insurance can save you more than just stress; it can save you thousands of dollars! In this episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with Karley Middleton, Benefits Consultant at HUB International, to unpack the ins and outs of travel covera...

No matter the size of your operation, manufacturers face significant risks. The impact of a serious loss can be greater than in almost any other industry—Are you confident your facility is properly insured? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with Alex Hawkins, Underwriting Director at Federated Insurance, to explore and break down the evolving risk landscape manufacturers face. They dive into growing threats of cyber security and the use of AI in social engineering attacks, to the increasing frequency of natural disasters. They explore how the insurance industry is adapting to these mode...

No matter the size of your operation, manufacturers face significant risks. The impact of a serious loss can be greater than in almost any other industry—Are you confident your facility is properly insured? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with Alex Hawkins, Underwriting Director at Federated Insurance, to explore and break down the evolving risk landscape manufacturers face. They dive into growing threats of cyber security and the use of AI in social engineering attacks, to the increasing frequency of natural disasters. They explore how the insurance industry is adapting to these mode...

Leadership is a journey – are you ready to lead? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with Blake Wheeler, former captain of the Winnipeg Jets, and Cody Miller, Director of Novus Global Construction Services & Executive Coach. Together, they explore Blake’s leadership journey, the experiences that drive his "why," and how he’s now helping leaders in both sports and business thrive through his work with Novus Global. The business world can learn a lot from the world of sport. What if we approached our work with the same focus on physical and mental performa...

What is your communication style? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with Genny Sacco-Bak, An instructor at University of Winnipeg PACE and owner of Coffee with Genny B Media. Together, they explore the many “flavors” of communication: from body language and public speaking to crafting impactful introductions and learning self-awareness. Genny also shares her insights from her work at the University of Winnipeg’s PACE program and Toastmasters as a communication instructor, along with her journey with her own podcast, Coffee with Genny B. Offering practical tips and personal stories along the way. Tune in...

Ever wondered how your leadership style stacks up and how you can make it even better? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz Kovach sits down with R.M. Caligiuri, CEO, Lecturer, and Keynote Speaker at Caligiuri Leadership, to explore his unique approach to developing Conscious Intelligence (CQ) in leaders. R.M. shares his journey from a career in marketing and sales to coaching leaders across businesses of all sizes. He opens up about the challenges he faces when building authentic connections and guiding leaders, especially in the fast-paced marketing world, and the power of patience in cu...

What does it take to go from zero experience to leading a sales team? Season 4 of Across the Yard is back! In this week’s episode, Liz sits down with Eric Dalton, Director of Sales and Business Development at DFM West Distribution, to explore his sales journey and the resilience it took to succeed in door-to-door sales. Eric shares his story, starting with zero experience and the lessons he learned navigating different industries while mastering the art of making a fast but lasting first impression. Tune in to listen to Eric’s journey from a newcomer in the business, to Dire...

The future of Canada manufacturing has never been more unpredictable, so how are industry leaders adapting? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz sits down with Sid Tetz, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at CGC Inc. to explore how manufacturers are navigating today’s complex landscape. They dive into the realities of servicing different regions and rural communities across Canada, and the growing importance of advocacy within the industry. The conversation also covers Sid's perspective on the pressures of tariffs, the push for innovation at the jobsite to better support retailers and builders, and what it trul...

Looking to transform your outdoor living space this season? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, Liz sits down with Rob Mitchell, President and CEO of Vista Railing Systems Inc. And Rob Stewart, Office Manager of DeckRite Canada Sundecks Ltd. to discuss the latest trends in Canadian outdoor living. They explore regional preferences, underutilized products, and emerging trends in the industry. The conversation also touches on how contractors and dealers can maximize sales on these products, as well as the potential impact of aluminum tariffs on the market. Tune in to hear the latest trends in Canadian outdoor li...

What happens when a family’s journey across continents leads to a thriving business in Canada? In this week’s episode of Across the Yard, we are joined by Rebekah Doerksen, Executive Assistant with Supply-Build Canada, as this week's temporary host, and Harry Sunner, owner of Durabuilt Windows & Doors, to talk about his journey from living in England to leading one of Canada’s most successful window and door companies. Harry shares how his family got into the industry, what it’s like growing a family-owned business, and the leadership lessons he's learned while scaling Durabuilt. They also explore the unique c...

Every business, no matter big or small, deals with mundane, repetitive tasks. From processing invoices to managing warehouse & stock reconciliation. But what if you could handle all of that and focus on bigger projects at the same time? In this week's episode, Liz sits down with Mohan Mailvaganam, National Canadian Practice Leader at Xerox, to explore the company’s surprising evolution from a legacy printer brand to a provider of cutting-edge business solutions, with today’s focus on their Robotics Process Automation (or RPAs). They also dive into Xerox’s journey from expanding beyond printers, what RPAs are and how they w...

Did you ever imagine yourself in the building supply industry– or even owning a business in it? In this week's episode, Liz sits down with Rob and Joanne Lawrie, owners of The Lawrie Group of Home Hardware Stores, to hear the story of how they got started and built their business together. They talk about their early days, what it’s like running a company as a couple, and the challenges they faced along the way. Rob and Joanne also discuss their plans for the future, along with sharing advice for the next generation who are either hesitant about joining the...

With the Canadian election now behind us, the building supply and construction industry has a brighter spotlight than ever before in the public eye. But what does the road ahead look like? In this week’s episode, Rodrigue Gilbert, president of the Canadian Construction Association, sits down with Liz Kovach to unpack the election results and explore what this means for the industry’s future. They touch on recent advocacy wins, what they hope to see from the government, and the biggest challenges that are currently facing this industry. They also dive into how government and communities can do better to a...

Do you ever wonder how you can better connect with people? Why people are the way they are? Or how to improve the workplace culture? Are you aware of how much time the human brain spends in survival mode? (you will be shocked to hear the stat!!!) On this week’s Across the Yard, Liz sits down with Dr. Eugene K. Choi, a Neuroscience-Based Leadership Coach, to discuss the science behind the survival and executive state of the brain and how it influences our thoughts, behaviors, and interactions every single day. From workplace dynamics to personal relationships, they dive into th...