BMO Business Unplanned with Michael Hyatt

In each episode of Business Unplanned, Michael Hyatt will sit down with local entrepreneurs, hear their stories, learn from their setbacks, and pick up some new insights along the way. Listen in as successful business owners have a candid conversation on what it's like to start, pivot and grow their own empires. For more information on starting your own business, visit www.BMO.com/SmallBusinessResourceHub

018 - How Your Business Can Attract More Customers 10/06/2022

018 - How Your Business Can Attract More Customers As a business, it can be difficult to attain new customers. Standing out amongst the competition can be tricky as everyone is always looking to stand out above the rest. How can your business be the most appealing choice for someone looking for your products and/or services? Michael Hyatt answers these questions and more from BMO's virtual live event "How To Work On (not in) Your Business." In this episode, Michael speaks with Sharad Sharma, Client Solutions Manager for Meta. They will discuss the key factors and steps to be taken to assure your business can bring in new and returning customers. For more information, visit /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/24469575

017 - How To Manage Cash Flow While Competing With Inflation 09/07/2022

017 - How To Manage Cash Flow While Competing With Inflation The pandemic brought many industries to a standstill. Two of the biggest consequences of that have been inflation and supply disruption. How can your company balance the two and what opportunities are available to help get it ahead? Michael Hyatt answers these questions and more from BMO's virtual live event "How To Work On (not in) Your Business." In this episode, Michael talks with Dana Leisen, Director and Controller for Moneris. They will discuss what companies are doing to stay ahead while dealing with the fallout of the pandemics' unforeseen setbacks and what can be used to keep them ahead. For more information, visit to download today's free ebook. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/24239820

016 - How To Engage And Retain Top Talent 08/05/2022

016 - How To Engage And Retain Top Talent The pandemic has created a situation of many unforeseen moving pieces in business. As the work climate changes and forms the new ways we work and conduct business, what are the appropriate ways to not only keep your strongest team members, but to keep them happy? Michael Hyatt answers these questions and more from BMO's virtual live event "How To Work On (not in) Your Business." In this episode, Michael is joined by Iman Masud, Executive Human Resources Relationship Manager for ADP Canada. Michael and Iman discuss how the workforce has seen a great change in working in the office versus working from home and how businesses are accommodating a new hybrid approach for their employees. For more information, visit . to download your free eBook of today's episode. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/23960214

015 - 6 Trends That Can Help Businesses Get Ahead 07/04/2022

015 - 6 Trends That Can Help Businesses Get Ahead The world of business has been faced with some of the most challenging events we've seen in our lifetime. Record high inflation, climbing interest rates supply shortages and so much more. As the world continues to change, what can we expect to see for the future of our economy? Michael Hyatt answers these types of questions and more from BMO's virtual live event "How To Work On (not in) Your Business."In this episode, Michael is joined by Robert Kavcic, Director and Senior Economist for BMO Capital Markets. Michael and Robert discuss the challenges that businesses have and continue to face, and how they can use the current trends to get ahead. For more information, visit to download your free eBook of today's episode. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/23521547

Mini Episode: Where We Are and Where We're Heading 05/02/2022

Mini Episode: Where We Are and Where We're Heading A lot has changed since the start of Business Unplanned. The world is attempting to approach normality from the pandemic, Russia has declared war on Ukraine, and we’re on the brink of another recession. With all the challenges being faced, that doesn't mean that we don't have anything to look forward to. In this episode, Michael Hyatt gives us his perspective on the current state of the world and the economy, and how there are still plenty of opportunities to make a comeback and stand tall on the other side. Plus! We're back with a new event and a new season. Visit in the coming weeks for more content, and to save your seat for the event in June. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/22853693

014 - Staying Ahead Of Digital Trends For Your Customers with Krista LaRiviere 11/04/2021

014 - Staying Ahead Of Digital Trends For Your Customers with Krista LaRiviere Many businesses have failed during the pandemic, but others have found new ways to succeed and grow. In this episode, we will hear about how you can stay ahead of digital trends to allow your business to adapt and find new ways to access your customers. Knowing how to pivot and strategize to "pandemic proof" your business in the future is vital to succeeding, even during hardships your business is facing. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/21053933

013 - Marketing Your Business In The Age Of E-Commerce with Ryan Holtz 10/06/2021

013 - Marketing Your Business In The Age Of E-Commerce with Ryan Holtz Ryan Holtz runs a branding and marketing agency and is the host of The Ryan Holtz Show. The pandemic has caused many businesses to adjust and adapt their strategy and focus more on their online presence. And as each individual becomes more connected and using online services, knowing how to market your brand to your customers, and how to properly pivot your business is key in being successful in today's age. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/20726999

012 - Financial Resilience as a Business Owner with Victoria Lennox 09/07/2021

012 - Financial Resilience as a Business Owner with Victoria Lennox Michael Hyatt is joined by Victoria Lennox to answer questions that were asked during BMO's "Preparing Your Business for the Future" virtual event. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/20397986

011 - Business Lessons Gained During A Pandemic 08/03/2021

011 - Business Lessons Gained During A Pandemic Michael Hyatt answers questions from Canadian's during BMO's virtual event "Preparing Your Business for the Future". Michael dives into what we've learned over the past year and a half, what types of things we can expect in the future, and what steps we can take to ensure our business is properly prepared for the new normal that's to come. COVID-19 has changed the way many businesses operate, and it has affected the way customers and clients interact with businesses. With so many moving parts and things constantly changing, knowing the best way to adapt, and continue adapting as things continue to evolve is crucial in the success of your business. For more information visit: /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/20024396

Mini Episode: Preparing Your Business For The Future 07/06/2021

Mini Episode: Preparing Your Business For The Future Things are starting to look up for businesses as we see provinces begin to open up and the prospect of returning to a new normal looks more realistic. With a virtual event happening on July 14th, 2021, to answer any questions business owners might have, we also wanted to point you towards the BMO resource hub that can provide additional information and help prepare you and your business for the future. Visit Follow on LinkedIn /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/19719902

Mini Episode: Virtual Event 06/07/2021

Mini Episode: Virtual Event We're taking a break this month from regular content! In the meantime, we’re gearing up for our next virtual event, which will take place on July 14, 2021, from 1-2:30PM EST! Join Michael and some special guests for a 90-minute event where they discuss ways to prepare your business for the future. Make sure to follow on LinkedIn to get notified as soon as it drops, as spots will be limited! /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/19300484

Mini Episode: Workplace Mental Health 05/03/2021

Mini Episode: Workplace Mental Health We're taking a break this month from regular content! In the meantime, this month is National Mental Health Month! Everyone experiences mental health, and it’s important to prioritize especially in the workplace. In this mini episode, Michael shares where you can find helpful resources to learn more. Listen to Business Unplanned Episode 5 at /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/18955793

Mini Episode - Taxes 101 04/05/2021

Mini Episode - Taxes 101 We're taking a break this month from regular content! In the meantime, it's everyone's favourite season - tax season. In this mini episode, Michael shares where you can find helpful resources to help minimize your taxes. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/18604958

010 - Business as Usual in a Post-Pandemic Economy 03/04/2021

010 - Business as Usual in a Post-Pandemic Economy In this episode, Michael spends time looking forward into what our future will look like post-pandemic almost one year since the pandemic hit. He answers some hard-hitting questions about what's to come like how will our industries change? Will everything resume as normal? This episode will discuss tips on pivoting your business plan while COVID is still happening, coming to terms with the fact that we are going to be in this "new normal" for the foreseeable future, and how even though it feels like this pandemic will never end, this too shall pass. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/18193334

009 - Taking the Right Path to Financial Success 02/03/2021

009 - Taking the Right Path to Financial Success Michael is joined by BMO Relationship Manager, Paschal Okwundu, another one of our event’s panelists. To help you prep for tax time in the coming months, today's discussion is all about money: Michael and Paschal help listeners understand the meaning of good debt vs bad debt, and how you should be thinking about debt management for your business. They also discuss considerations when applying for business loans, and take us through the world of COVID economics, and how the government is handling its debt. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/17808182

008 - Managing Your Start-Up During A Pandemic 12/23/2020

008 - Managing Your Start-Up During A Pandemic As we kick off to a new year, Michael's questions in this episode are all about start-ups! Michael is joined by two of our event's panelists: Julia Wood, a Business Development Manager at Futurpreneur, and Nathan Mah, founder of Mero. The trio enter into the world of start-up management, discussing how to take the first steps to creating a business, and how to keep it going and thriving, especially in today's economic environment. Managing a start-up can be daunting, but Michael, Julia and Nathan lay out the many resources and information available to assist in making your journey into entrepreneurship seamless. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/17308259

007 - The Importance of eCommerce and Digital Marketing 12/07/2020

007 - The Importance of eCommerce and Digital Marketing Michael Hyatt dives into some questions from attendees of BMO's Small Business Month virtual event, Regaining Business Momentum After a Crisis. Michael is joined by one of our event’s panelists, Amy Maraone, Moneris' VP of Marketing and Communications. Today, the pair will be answering some questions about Marketing and uncovering eCommerce best practices which could be fitting for you during the holiday season. Growing and marketing your business can be difficult on a regular day, but it is especially challenging with the new switch to Work From Home. This episode will dive into the benefits of digital marketing for an online business, how to stimulate customer traffic, and how having solid leadership and internal communications can translate to a successful business. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/17097704

006 - Understanding Customers' Needs with Janet Zuccarini 09/08/2020

006 - Understanding Customers' Needs with Janet Zuccarini On this episode, Michael is joined by Janet Zuccarini, restaurateur, founder and owner of the Gusto 54 Group. Running a business that depends on customers can be very rewarding, but it can also be very difficult, especially during this time of COVID-19. Michael and Janet will talk about how to adapt to customers’ needs, the limitations and learning from living and working in self-isolation, exploring online markets, and other alternate ways to reach customers. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/15930335

005 - How to Stay Motivated in Business with Mike Darlington 08/27/2020

005 - How to Stay Motivated in Business with Mike Darlington Today Michael sits down with Mike Darlington, co-founder of Monstercat, an independent record label, to discuss motivation. Running your own company can be pretty daunting, especially when a crisis unfolds and there's no end in sight, and that can make it hard to stay focused on your goals and keep the company going. Michael and Mike will break down some tips for self-motivation in times of crisis, as well as discuss how to inspire and motivate your employees during uncertain times. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/15613820

004 - Managing Cash Flow Post-Covid-19 with Hana & Farrah Elali 08/11/2020

004 - Managing Cash Flow Post-Covid-19 with Hana & Farrah Elali One of the primary functions of maintaining a business is cash flow, and that's what the topic is this week! Michael chats with Hana and Farrah Elali, the brains behind Dough T.O., a safe-to-eat cookie dough company. Joined by a BMO financial expert, the group will have an open discussion about money, tips to manage payroll, common pitfalls when money is at the forefront, paying yourself as small business owners, and how to lead with confidence. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/15568832

003 - Getting a Business Loan During Covid-19 with Laura & Josie Cannone 08/04/2020

003 - Getting a Business Loan During Covid-19 with Laura & Josie Cannone In this episode, Michael talks money and loans with Laura and Josie Cannone, also known as The GG Sisters. Laura and Josie are the founders of a children’s spa called Glama Gal, as well as their own social media agency and online brand, The GG Media Group. Joined by a BMO financial expert, the group discusses all things business loan and gives tips to their listeners on borrowing to expand, finding comfort in taking risks, and navigating the waters on loans during the current climate. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/15316940

002 - Making Business Adjustments with Randy Osei 07/14/2020

002 - Making Business Adjustments with Randy Osei In this episode, Michael sits down with Randy Osei, a former basketball player turned athlete manager, who now runs his own creative marketing and branding agency, with a focus on social impact projects, Rozaay Management, alongside multiple events. In fields like event production/ management and sports, constant change means adaptation, and COVID-19 is no different. Michael and Randy will discuss how to navigate business without a plan and give tips on making business adjustments to adapt to the constantly changing landscape. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/15103295

001 - The Business Recovery with Swish Goswami 06/23/2020

001 - The Business Recovery with Swish Goswami Swish Goswami, founder of Trufan.io. Business life has been difficult since COVID-19 hit in March, and many small business owners are struggling to find ways to keep their businesses running during and after this is done. Michael and Swish delve deep into what’s going on in the current climate, and give advice on how to embrace the hit businesses are taking during COVID-19 and learning how to bounce back from these times of uncertainty. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/14920910

Business Unplanned Preview 06/19/2020

Business Unplanned Preview Introducing Business Unplanned. In this show Michael Hyatt will sit down with local entrepreneurs, hear their stories, learn from their setbacks, and pick up some new insights along the way. Listen in as successful business owners have a candid conversation on what it's like to start, pivot and grow their own empires. /episode/index/show/businessunplanned/id/14894909

BMO Business Unplanned with Michael Hyatt

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