Evolving Entrepreneurship

Evolving Entrepreneurship

The Stratford Perth Centre for Business Podcast, “Evolving Entrepreneurship” celebrates Canadian small business and entrepreneurship. Produced in the heart of Stratford, Ontario, Canada, Evolving Entrepreneurship is an authentic deep dive into the unique struggles and triumphs of women-led businesses. Co-hosted by Stratford Perth Centre for Business advisors Holly Mortimer and Janis Auster, the podcast’s premiere five-episode season features candid conversations with local entrepreneurs about the pitfalls, failures, and partnerships that have defined their journeys. The series shines a spotlight on the resilient and resourceful female entrepreneurs who are shaping Stratford, Ontario, Canada, and beyond.

Episodes

June 30, 2025 50 mins

In this episode, we sit down with Joani Gerber, CEO of investStratford and former Stratford Business Leader of the Year. From her early days working in the family business to steering Stratford through economic uncertainty, Joani shares powerful lessons on:

  • Tackling trade and tariff challenges
  • Supporting small businesses
  • Championing women in...
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Episode 6: (Bonus Episode) Meet the Intern

Episode Duration: 35 minutes

In this bonus episode of Evolving Entrepreneurship, we chat with Cindy Teknedjian about her internship at the Stratford Perth Centre for Business, her Change Management studies, and what she thinks about the world of entrepreneurship.

Resources for Entrepreneurs:

Stratford Perth Centre for Business Website: https://www.stratfordperthbusiness.ca/ Email: info@str...

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Episode 5: Crystals and Commerce: A Journey of Healing and Business with Nia Bright

Episode Duration: 45 minutes

Nia Bright shares her transformative journey from experiencing a severe health crisis to becoming the owner of Good Vibrations Rock Shop, a vibrant crystal shop and event space in downtown Stratford, Ontario.

Episode Highlights:
  • The unexpected path from health crisis to business ownership
  • Transitioning into entrepre...
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Episode 4: Breaking Ground: A New Perspective on Modern Agriculture with Jacqueline Martin

Episode Duration: 45 minutes

Jacqueline Martin shares her unique experience as a young female entrepreneur co-running Kampkreek Dairies with her brothers, while also managing Pastoral Pond, an artisanal cider company, with her husband.

Episode Highlights:
  • Navigating family dynamics in a sibling-owned agricultural business
  • Breaking barrie...
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Episode 3: Building a 20-Year Legacy in Downtown Stratford with Kelly Ballantyne and Mel Lang

Episode Duration: 45 minutes

Please note that there were technical difficulties on the audio side, so turn it up once Kelly and Mel start to chat. This episode contains 20 years of knowledge that you don't want to miss!

Kelly Ballantyne, chef and owner of Sirkel Foods, along with her wife Mel Lang, share their remarkable journey of buildin...

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Episode 2: Small Town Success: Building a Canadian Subscription Box Empire with Virginia Ehrlich

Episode Duration: 45 minutes

Virginia Ehrlich shares her journey of creating Acre75, a subscription box service that celebrates small-town Canadian makers and captures the essence of local community spirit.

Episode Highlights:
  • Creating a business model that celebrates small-town Canadian culture
  • Managing a subscription-based busine...
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Episode 1: Sweet Success: From Banking to Bonbons with Kelly Lindsay

Episode Duration: 45 minutes

Kelly Lindsay shares her inspiring journey of transitioning from a 20-year banking career to founding Corner Store Candy Co., a charming sweet shop in downtown Stratford, Ontario, Canada.

Corner Store Candy Co

https://cornerstorecandy.co/

27 York St., Stratford ON Canada

Instagram

Episode Highlights:
  • The leap from corporate bankin...
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