It’s Lonely at the Top Podcast
It’s Lonely at the Top is a leadership podcast for CEOs and senior leaders navigating an AI-driven world. Hosted by Nancy MacKay, Founder & CEO of MacKay CEO Forums, the podcast explores the MacKay Mastery Model and what it takes to lead with clarity, confidence, and resilience as technology reshapes business. Each episode features real conversations with CEOs, executives, Chairs, and AI-forward leaders on leadership mastery, decision-making, human connection, and practical AI, so leaders stay relevant, grounded, and unstoppable.
Episodes
The Psychology of High Performance with Dr. Dana Sinclair
What separates great leaders from everyone else isn't talent. It's how they perform when the pressure is on. In this episode of It's Lonely at the Top, Nancy MacKay sits down with performance psychologist Dr. Dana Sinclair, Founder of Human Performance International, to explore the mindset and emotional mastery required to lead at the highest level. Dr. Sinclair has spent her career he
How Elite Leaders Build Mental Toughness
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 vulnerabil
How CEOs Can Unlock Their Next Stage of Growth
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
Overcoming Isolation as a CEO
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 overcomi
How to Foster Human Connection: Insights from Leaders in Community Engagement
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
How to Overcome Loneliness as a CEO
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 persona
The Role of Leadership in Growth
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 R
Live from the Future of Business Summit: It’s Lonely at the Top
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 und
Transforming Challenges into Triumphs
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
How Top Leaders Overcome Loneliness in Leadership
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 indivi
Navigating the CIO Journey: Insights from Industry Leaders
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 suppo
From Immigrant Roots to Industry Leader: How CEOs Find Strength Through Peer Support
In this episode of "It's Lonely at the Top," host Nancy MacKay welcomes Kim Tofin and Sergey Poltev to discuss the unique challenges faced by CEOs and the importance of peer support. Sergey shares his journey as a first-generation immigrant from Russia, detailing how personal hardships shaped his entrepreneurial spirit and led him to establish three successful companies in IT and cybersecurity. Se
The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership
In this episode of the podcast, Nancy MacKay hosts Conan Graham, Chief Business Officer and Certified Forum Chair at MacKay CEO Forums, and Brian Harris, President and CEO of Beem Credit Union, discussing their leadership journeys, the challenges of being a CEO, and the importance of community and vulnerability in leadership. They explore the significance of personal growth, mental fitness, and th
The Journey of a Social Purpose Entrepreneur
In this episode, Nancy MacKay hosts Keith Ippel and Natalie Michael to discuss the challenges and triumphs of social purpose leadership. They explore the loneliness often felt by CEOs, the importance of health and well-being, and the transformative role of AI in business. Keith shares his journey as a social purpose entrepreneur and the impact of his co-CEO model, while Natalie discusses her work
The Journey from HR to CEO: Insights from Jay-Ann Gilfoy
In this episode of the It's Lonely at the Top podcast, Nancy MacKay interviews Jay-Ann Gilfoy, CEO of Meridian Credit Union, discussing her journey from HR to CEO, the importance of peer groups, and the challenges of leadership. Jay-Ann shares insights on overcoming loneliness at the top, inspiring leadership practices, and the role of mental fitness and positive intelligence in her daily routine.
Navigating Leadership Loneliness: Hear from Sushant Trivedi and Nico Human
In this episode of 'It's Lonely at the Top,' Nancy MacKay hosts Sushant Trivedi and Nico Human, discussing the challenges and triumphs of leadership. They explore the loneliness that often accompanies high-level positions, the importance of peer support, and strategies for self-leadership and accountability. Sushant shares his journey from being an immigrant to becoming a successful CE
#30: How to Surround Yourselves with Smarter People. Hear from Chris Taylor, CEO of Actionable.co
Chris Taylor is the CEO of Actionable.co, which is at the leading edge of learning sustainment and impact measurement for progressive organizations. Described once by a client as “a curious blend of Boomer and Gen-Y”, Chris is often called upon to act as a bridge and translator between generations at work, our new state of constant change and the impact technology has on team dynamics. He brings a
#29: From Success-Driven Childhood to CEO, hear from Louise Hendey, CEO of Erickson Coaching International
Louise is the CEO of Erickson Coaching International. Established in 1980, Erickson has trained over 55,000+ professional coaches and worked with leaders in 125+ countries. Louise has a 25-year career spanning across multiple industries including consulting, education, non-profit, financial services and coaching. She has a Master’s Degree in Business (summa cum laude and top student) and completed
#28: From Retail Clerk to CEO: David Poirier on Growth, Peer Learning, and Leading The Poirier Group
We’re pleased to have connected with David Poirier, CEO, The Poirier Group. David is an accomplished leader having progressed in his earlier career from retail clerk (while in University), to Executive and C-Suite roles in major National Grocery and Retail organizations, as well as an International Health and Life Sciences corporation.
The Poirier Group is a boutique management consulting firm op
#27: How do you consistently grow your business? Hear from Cameron Herold, Former COO, 1-800-Got-Junk?, and Founder of COO Alliance
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 t
#26: Leadership Unveiled: A Conversation with Sara Daw, Group CEO of The CFO Centre
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 S
#25: How do you consult others? Hear from Will Bachman, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Umbrex
Will Bachman's mission is to help independent professionals thrive. He's the Founder and Managing Partner of Umbrex, a global community of more than 4,000 independent management consultants. He's the host of Unleashed - How to Thrive as an Independent Professional, a podcast with over 530 episodes. A former nuclear-trained submarine officer, Will is a graduate of Harvard College and Co
#24: How do you make impact for your clients? Hear from Michael Zipursky, CEO of Consulting Success and Coach to Consultants
Michael Zipursky is the co-founder and CEO of Consulting Success® where they specialize in helping entrepreneurial consultants grow profitable, scalable and strategic consulting businesses. He has advised organizations like Financial Times, Dow Jones, RBC, and helped Panasonic launch new products into global markets, but more importantly, he’s helped over 1000 consultants from around the world in
#23: Entrepreneurs are cut from a different cloth. Hear from Kim G C Moody, Founder of Moodys Private Client & Moodys Tax on the value of coaching & mentorship to shape the future of Alberta & Canada
Growing up in Saskatchewan driving go-karts and dreaming of becoming an NHL hockey player, listen in as we speak with Kim G C Moody, founder and former CEO of Moodys Tax/Moodys Private Client. From building the firm from scratch to transitioning into a part-time consulting role, Kim is deeply involved in passion projects like MacKay CEO activities and public policy. Kim recently joined as the Albe
#22: Future-Proofing Teams and Personal Journeys: A Conversation with Rocky Ozaki, Founder & CEO of NoW of Work
Listen in to an exciting chat with Rocky Ozaki. Rocky is the Founder & CEO of the NoW of Work, a business transformation firm whose primary focus is helping leaders build future-proofed, resilient teams that are anchored on cultures of innovation and agility. Rocky and Nancy discuss the future of work, AI, family, and surrounding yourself with game-changers.
In this podcast, Rocky discusses d
#21: We Control Our Health: A Conversation with Mike Kessel, CEO & President of Cleveland Clinic Canada
Hear from one of Canada’s leaders in in-person and virtual health programs. Mike Kessel is the President and CEO of Cleveland Clinic Canada. In this role, he is responsible for the growth of the Canadian facilities, strategic partnerships and enterprise value creation. Cleveland Clinic Canada is the Canadian location of the Cleveland Clinic, a global non-profit academic centre that has been delive
#20: CEOs and Leaders need to take care of their health: A Conversation with Diamond Fernandes, Founder of HeartFit Clinic on preventing heart disease
Hear an inspiring episode from Diamond Fernandes. Diamond is an advocate for CEOs and Leaders needing to take care of their health. A seasoned expert in cardiac health since 1999, and author of his book "Beating Heart Disease”, Diamond is the Founder of the Heart Fit Clinic in 2007 with clinics spanning Calgary, Edmonton, Vancouver, and soon Eastern Canada. Heart Fit Clinic is the leader in c
#19: Formula for Success in Life and Leadership: Cathy Mackay, CEO at Environmental Dynamics Inc. on her journey from Small Town Beginnings to Corporate Success
Listen in as Cathy Mackay takes us through her extraordinary journey from a small town in British Columbia to her current role as CEO of Environmental Dynamics Inc. With a rich background in biology and agrology, Cathy's inspiring path to becoming a CEO was informed by her ability to embrace new challenges, think creatively, and stay focused with a clear vision.
At EDI, Cathy has been a drivi
#18: How do you know that you are putting in the work? Hear from Rob Miller, CEO and Co-Founder of Miller Titerle & Company
Rob Miller is an accomplished businessman, and a recognized leader in Indigenous, natural resource, energy, and corporate law. Rob is the CEO and Co-Founder of Miller Titerle & Company and the Owner and Chair of Briteweb. Rob consistently seeks to be the best version of himself every day. Rob truly believes that the only competition that you have is the competition that you were yesterday. Rob
#17: How does your company adapt with technology: A Conversation with Eric Sugar, President of ProserveIT on IT, Technology, AI, and CEOs peer learning becoming a requirement
Eric Sugar is the President of ProServeIT since its inception in 2002, and personally has over 25 years of experience in the IT industry. As a modern IT specialist and trusted technology advisor, ProServeIT helps organizations in various industries unlock their digital future and turn technology into a true business enabler. Eric’s people-centric approach is reflected in ProServeIT's core valu
#16: Breaking Cycles and Building Futures through Wealth Mastery: Insights from Murray Neilson, Business Development, Nicola Wealth Management
Join Murray Neilson, Business Development at Nicola Wealth Management as he delves into the crucial aspects of financial discipline and strategic wealth planning for CEOs. Despite not having financial role models early in life, Murray's journey led him to profound insights and discipline thanks to the innovative approaches at Nicola Wealth. He shares his transformative experience and the pivot
#15: How to overcome difficult obstacles? Hear from Josh Blair, CEO and Co-Founder of Impro.AI
Hear the inspiring story from Josh Blair, CEO and Co-Founder of Impro.AI. Josh was born and raised in BC, and from his childhood had to overcome obstacles to get to where he is today. His story is something that will inspire you. What inspires Josh today is to see others succeed personally and professionally. His company, Impro.AI, is a high-tech company that enables corporations and their employe
#14: Inspiring others to follow you and vice versa. Lessons in leadership with Isabelle Hudon, CEO of BDC
A true pioneer in the world of business and leadership, we had the utmost pleasure of speaking with Isabelle Hudon, President and CEO of BDC. Breaking barriers at every turn, Isabelle made history by becoming the first woman to hold major roles in each stage of her illustrious career. In August 2021, she became President and CEO of Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC), which is Canada’s bank
#13: Navigating Global Markets without Borders and Buzzwords, a Deep Dive with Sachin Louis, Go-To-Market Leader & SVP, WNS
Hear an inspiring discussion with Sachin Louis, a seasoned Go-To-Market Leader and SVP at WNS. A global leading Business Process Management (BPM) company, WNS has over 600 clients across various industries. As of December 31, 2023, WNS had over 60,000 professionals across 66 delivery centre’s worldwide.
Sachin is driven by a passion for delivering exceptional results and maximizing revenue potenti
#12: How do you get out of difficult situations and raise your game? Hear from Natalie Michael, Co-founder of Waterfront Partners and CEO of the Next Chapter Program
Learn to become a big believer in forgiveness, letting things go, and tending to our own consciousness, and energy. Be the best version of yourself every day. An experienced businesswoman, Natalie Michael is the Co-founder of Waterfront Partners and the CEO of the Next Chapter Program. Natalie coaches CEOs who are moving up, into, and out of the CEO role; and partners with CEOs who are building th
#11: Diana Swain’s Decades in the Headlines. Hear from Former CBC News Investigative Journalist, Senior Editorial Leader and Principal of Diana Swain Strategies on the Power of Presence
Hear about Diana Swain's remarkable 37-year journalism career, including 33 years at CBC News, where she left as one of its top investigative journalists and senior editorial leaders. Diana made history as the first woman in Canada to win the national award for Best News Anchor, which she went on to win three times, and covered three Olympic games—Beijing, Sochi, and Pyeongchang.
Now, Diana e
#10: The Entrepreneurial Journey: Hear Laura Vaughan, MacKay CEO Forums Forum Chair & Ontario Regional Director on Lifelong Learning and the Power of Shared Experiences
Listen in to Laura Vaughan’s journey chasing a life full of Joy. Laura Vaughan has a large role at MacKay CEO Forums as a Forum Chair leading multiple CEO and executive peer groups, as well as taking on the Regional Director role in the province of Ontario. Laura led Atlas Block, a $40 million manufacturing business specializing in concrete products, for 8 years, navigating challenges during the 2
#9: How do you show care towards others? Hear from Cathy Thorpe, President & CEO, Nurse Next Door
Cathy Thorpe is the President & CEO of Nurse Next Door, and author of Bold Kindness. Cathy inspires leaders to radically change their people practices and organizational culture by leading with kindness. Her company, Nurse Next Door, has revolutionized caregiving and they have gone beyond home care. Nurse Next Door believes that seniors should have a choice in everything they do. Nurse Next Do
#8: How do you get others to achieve their goals? Hear from Robert Pratt, President, Sandman and Sutton Place Hotels
Robert Pratt has been in the hotel industry for over 47 years leading 5 different hotel companies. Robert has been responsible for 450 hotels during his career. Robert is motivated to give back to see others achieve their goals and to believe in themselves. Hear what inspires Robert in the next stage of his career in seeing others grow personally and with their careers, and his thoughts on the sta
#7: How do you plan for the future financially? Hear from Derek Dobson, CEO and Plan Manager, CAAT Pension Plan
Derek is a seasoned pension leader with more than 30 years of experience in the industry. Derek is the CEO of one of Canada’s most sustainable pension plans, CAAT Pension Plans. What inspires Derek is doing good for others. There is an energy in seeing others grow personally and professionally whether it is someone inside or outside of Derek’s organization. Hear Derek share his thoughts on Retirem
#6: How do you master your Health? Hear from Kevin Brady, President & Founder, Advica Health
Kevin Brady is the President & Founder, Advica Health, and Director of Corporate Health, NFP Canada Corp. Kevin is a talented author, and in his latest book, ‘It's Never Too Late to Be Healthy: Reaching Peak Health in Middle Age’, Kevin explains how you can avoid illness and reverse aging. Kevin has big goals—helping one million Canadians access better health outcomes. He's also receiv
#5: How do you level up in your career? Hear from John Anderson, Chairman, CEO, and Managing Partner of The Oppenheimer Group
John Anderson, the Chairman, CEO, and Managing Partner of The Oppenheimer Group for over 48 years. Starting in 1975 as a warehouse worker, he has climbed the corporate ladder within Oppy. Oppy, which has thrived for more than 165 years, is a prominent name in the industry. In addition to his role at Oppy, John serves as the Chairman and CEO of Anderson Air, the oldest aircraft management and chart
#4: How do you capture and share a compelling story as a leader? Hear from Dave Dinesen, COO at MacKay CEO Forums
An experienced CEO who started numerous public and private companies in different industries, Dave Dinesen is an experienced and impactful Canadian businessman. Dave is energized by seeing companies grow and make a difference in the world. Dave brought his expertise to MacKay CEO Forums with a vision for all CEOs and Executives to experience the same peer learning benefits that he experienced that
#3: How do you get inspired? Hear from Sandra Ketchen, President & CEO, Spectrum Health Care
As President & CEO of Spectrum Health Care, Sandra is relentless in her pursuit of the company’s vision – a world where people, especially our seniors have the choice and confidence to be cared for at home. She is an advocate for integrated care solutions that give patients control over where they get better and how they age. A visionary leader, Sandra drives innovative solutions to the chall
#2: How do you know that the best is yet to come? Hear from Marty Parker, President & CEO of Waterstone Human Capital
While being a busy father and the CEO of Waterstone Human Capital, Marty Parker continues to learn and to grow his business to new heights. In 2004, Marty founded the Canada’s Most Admired Corporate CulturesTM Awards, an annual program that recognizes best-in-class Canadian organizations for having a culture that has helped them enhance performance and sustain a competitive advantage. In 2014, the
#1: How do you drive purpose and impact every day while flexing your own style? Hear from Jodi Evans, Vice Chair at Deloitte
From professional athlete on the basketball court to the boardroom, Jodi Evans, Vice Chair for Deloitte Canada shares her inspiring journey and how she found success in consulting. Evans has been with Deloitte for over 20 years and is guided by Deloitte’s mission statement that we should all be “Making an impact that matters." Listen in to hear what advice Jodi would give to young professiona
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