UNBeknownst

A podcast for UNB alumni, by UNB alumni. Sharing interesting and surprising stories of people you may not have known attended the University of New Brunswick. Discussions on lessons learned, insights gained and hot takes on current topics.

#50: Matt Symes on confronting change – and why every business must embrace A 06/04/2025

#50: Matt Symes on confronting change – and why every business must embrace A Serial entrepreneur Matt Symes (BA'04/BEd'04) is an expert on helping leaders confront change and develop sound strategies to navigate through uncertain times. As founding partner and CEO of Symplicity Designs, based in Atlantic Canada, he and his team have helped over 500 organizations and institutions both scale and recover from some of their darkest moments. In addition to Symplicity Designs, Matt also manages a portfolio of companies of which he holds a majority or minority stake, in a range of industries. He was named Business Leader of the Year in 2020 from the Halifax Chamber of Commerce and one of Atlantic Canada’s Top 50 CEOs in 2022 and 2023 by Atlantic Business Magazine. Matt goes out of his way to embrace leading-edge environmentally sustainable practices at his companies, no matter how much effort and resources are required. He believes in stoicism – that we all have 100 percent control over our mindset. With that frame of mind, it’s possible to do almost anything, and he enjoys solving complex problems. Hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA’15) and Andrew Martel (BCS’15) chat with Matt about embracing change, planning for the future, and, in particular, how to adopt AI for efficiency and growth. Highlights from the episode:   The issues that leaders are currently grappling with and what they are looking to in the future How disruptions – in particular AI - are massively uprooting how we create value How fast the world is now changing for business and lives The areas that business leaders need to lean into AI, and how to integrate and benefit from it Looking at the challenge of AI from impact and looking back through to the people who use it and benefit from it – and how leaders can do this with their people, not to them. How we can personally look forward and navigate learning and building a career around AI and other changes Links and resources:   Thanks to:   Our alumni hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA’15) and Andrew Martel (BCS’15) Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife   To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/36846575

#49: Mike LeBlanc on innovative tech for good 05/22/2025

#49: Mike LeBlanc on innovative tech for good Mike LeBlanc has been building and growing tech and tech consulting companies in New Brunswick over the last 25 years, including Blue Spurs, which he sold to Deloitte Canada in 2019 to help the company advance its global technology capability and put New Brunswick on the map. His latest startup is BlueKit, a first-of-its-kind hands-on innovation-creation platform thoughtfully designed from the ground up for all learners - including non-technical educators - to explore the art of the possible with technology. Designed for middle and high school students, it empowers learners across all disciplines to unlock the limitless potential of technology by tackling real-world problems. In our current environment where tech – and the people behind tech companies – are perhaps not living up to using technology for the good of society, hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA’15) and Andrew Martel (BCS’15) chat with Mike about doing innovative work in the tech space that positively impacts industry, businesses, communities and individuals. Highlights from the episode:   The idea and technology behind BlueKit, and the need for tech education to keep up with advancements. The value of early exposure to and education in technology The ups and downs of entrepreneurship and innovating The importance of diverse voices and ethics when developing technology and new capabilities AI needs a wide variety of voices, as well as transparency What tech for good means, and the future of guidelines for companies when using technology How computer scientists are using problem solving skills to make the world better The future of AI and studying so that we can guide how to use it Links and resources:   Thanks to:   Our alumni hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA’15) and Andrew Martel (BCS’15) Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/36675370

#48: Aimée Foreman on the silver economy, care economy and addressing the needs for aging well 04/25/2025

#48: Aimée Foreman on the silver economy, care economy and addressing the needs for aging well Aimée Foreman (MBA’01) is founder and CEO of Silvermark, an advisory firm that specializes in working with aging care leaders in private business, not-for-profits, and all levels of government to define challenges and design solutions that improve the quality of life of the older adults they serve. She also recently founded the non-profit CaregiversNB, and is an advisory member of Canadian Caregiving, an organization that provides support to family caregivers and care providers. Aimée is a purpose-driven entrepreneur, advisor, and advocate who is committed to advancing the quality of life for older adults. She believes that the greatest plagues to aging well can be addressed through connection, purpose, and meaningful contribution across generations. Hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA’15) and Andrew Martel (BCS’15) chat with Aimée about the research, best practices, and innovations that can be used to inform policy, progressive programming, and design through a user-centric approach to aging. Highlights from the episode:   An explanation of the silver economy and care economy, and the demographics behind it Trends in the silver and care economies The barriers to aging well and how to break them down Examples of how we can better support connection among older adults How the provinces in Canada are doing in aging and caregiver supports How Silvermark is advocating for aging care with governments and organizations An explanation of age-friendly initiatives How we can better support caregivers for seniors Links and resources:   Thanks to:   Our alumni hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA’15) and Andrew Martel (BCS’15) Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/36307075

#47: Andrew MacLean on travel, Atlantic Canada history and why storytelling matters 04/22/2025

#47: Andrew MacLean on travel, Atlantic Canada history and why storytelling matters Andrew MacLean (BA’07) writes the weekly Atlantic Canadian newspaper column Backyard History and hosts the podcast and TV show of the same name. He has also written 3 books about the forgotten stories of Atlantic Canada’s past. Andrew received a degree in history at UNB and then a master’s at Dalhousie University. But before beginning writing, he had already lived a far ranging and eclectic life: he has backpacked through 37 countries on 5 continents, visiting over 200 different cities around the world. He has travelled from Nunavut to the Florida Keys doing aerial surveying using lasers to track rising waters of global climate change. All that world travelling was brought to a screeching halt by the global pandemic, which brought him back home to New Brunswick. Inspired by recalling the local lore he heard from his grandfather in the tiny village of Tide Head, Andrew began digging deep into obscure moments in Maritimes history as a pandemic passion project. It turned into more than he could ever have imagined. Hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA’15) and Andrew Martel (BCS’15) chat with Andrew about stories he’s uncovered, and why storytelling and history matter. Highlights from the episode:   A glimpse into Andrew’s travel stories What he brought back to Atlantic Canada Why he transitioned to telling stories of history from our own backyard on the East Coast Why storytelling is important Why understanding our history is also important Links and resources:   Thanks to:   Our alumni hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA’15) and Andrew Martel (BCS’15) Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife   To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/36261745

#46: Alexandre Hayward on rising up after a tragic accident to compete on the world stage 03/24/2025

#46: Alexandre Hayward on rising up after a tragic accident to compete on the world stage Paralympic cyclist Alexandre Hayward (BScEng’23) had a big year in 2024: he opened the season with gold in the C3 time trial and bronze in the road race at World Cup in Australia and added a time trial bronze at a second stop in Belgium. At the track worlds in Rio, he took silver in the men’s C3 scratch race. Then came the big one – the Paralympics in Paris last August, where he won the bronze medal in the men’s C3 3,000-metre Individual Pursuit at the Paris velodrome. Alex burst onto the national and international Para cycling stage in 2022, after playing wheelchair basketball for New Brunswick at the Canada Winter Games and the Canadian junior team. In 2012, at the age of 16, Alex suffered an incomplete spinal cord injury, and his aspirations to pursue professional-level hockey ended. His everyday became about discovering if he’d walk and have normal body function again. Eventually, basketball, and then cycling, became a passion. Alex also graduated UNB in 2023 from the bachelor of engineering program, and spent a summer at UNB’s Institute of Biomedical Engineering as an intern, and has a burgeoning interest in biomedical research. Hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA’15) and Andrew Martel (BCS’15) chat with Alex about his story and lessons he learned, as well as how he stays motivated and mentally and physically fit. In this episode:   Alex’s accident and his recovery How he got into wheelchair basketball, and then cycling The experience of Paris 2024 and other world-class competitions Alex’s experience in biomedical engineering at UNB and his future plans How he says motivated and fit. Links and resources:   Thanks to:   Our alumni hosts Kayla Ossachuk (BA’15) and Andrew Martel (BCS’15) Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife  To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/35836960

#45: Randy Hatfield on the realities of poverty and practical solutions 03/24/2025

UNBeknownst #44: Kelsey Hogan on the universal lessons learned from ultramarathon trail running 12/18/2024

UNBeknownst #44: Kelsey Hogan on the universal lessons learned from ultramarathon trail running Kelsey Hogan (BPhil'16) is an ultramarathon trail runner and mental performance consultant who has recently returned from Europe after completing the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc — a 171-kilometre race that crosses Italy, Switzerland and France. Originally from Newfoundland, Kelsey has called Fredericton home since she was a student at UNB. She graduated in 2016 with a bachelor of philosophy in interdisciplinary leadership and psychology from UNB’s Renaissance College, and has also completed a master of science in kinesiology in sport psychology at Dalhousie University. She is currently working toward accreditation as a mental performance consultant. Kelsey, in addition to training and running professionally, is exploring the factors that influence the performance and well-being of endurance athletes, teams, and coaches. Host Katie Davey (BA’17) chats with her about being an active member of the community through building good governance and providing a helping hand. In this episode:   How Kelsey found the sport of ultra running. The preparation process and experience of running ultramarathons trail races. Developing mental fitness for ultra pursuits. Mindset and language that helps to conquer ultras in racing and in life. How performance psychology gives the tools needed to perform your best in both sport and life. Longevity as a key piece of planning in ultra racing and other life pursuits. Links and resources:   Thanks to:   Our , Katie Davey Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife   To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/34507160

#43: KJ Conyers-Steede on community-centric innovation and creating sustainable policies for rural Atlantic Canada 11/21/2024

#43: KJ Conyers-Steede on community-centric innovation and creating sustainable policies for rural Atlantic Canada Kjeld Mizpah “KJ” Conyers-Steede (BA’18) is director of strategy and partnerships for Inspiring Communities, a nonprofit working to build collaborative relationships for social change in Atlantic Canada. A UNB political science alum, KJ is a seasoned systems thinker with a strong focus on areas such as community-centric strategic planning, human-centered design, organizational culture, and governance reviews. From executive director of the New Brunswick Student Alliance to operations manager at the Spring Garden Area Business Association, to director of change management for Hockey Nova Scotia, to his recent work on projects that drive community-centric innovation, KJ has never backed away from big challenges. In fact, he excels at crafting solutions for what he refers to as the “big hairy policy challenges” and collaborating on community projects that tackle the most complex and pressing issues in society. Host Katie Davey (BA’17) chats KJ about a wide range of challenges and solutions for Atlantic Canadian communities. In this episode:   The journey for KJ from Bermuda to New Brunswick Regional and community collaboration The opportunity for rural economic development in Atlantic Canada Why KJ is running for Mayor of his regional community in Nova Scotia How communities need to prepare for climate change, especially in rural areas of Atlantic Canada How community-centric innovation and creating ecosystems can lead to problem-solving How policy development needs to be built outside of election cycles, and how it can be done by empowering people and community champions. How academic research is allowing KJ to test social incubation projects. Thanks to:   Our , Katie Davey Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife   To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/34076616

#42: Josh LeBrun on social enterprise and building community 10/25/2024

#41: Shilo Boucher on building a healthy, strong community 09/24/2024

#41: Shilo Boucher on building a healthy, strong community Shilo Boucher (BBA’00), is President and CEO of the YMCA of Southwest New Brunswick, one of the largest employers and community service organizations in the province. Shilo attended UNB on the Saint John campus, graduating from business administration in 1999, then worked at two large public accounting firms while obtaining her CPA before landing at the Saint John YMCA in 2006. She held roles as the chief financial officer and chief operating officer before taking on the role of president and CEO in 2011. Shilo has been tremendously involved in helping to grow the community of Saint John and region, having served on the Saint John Airport board of directors, president of The Resource Centre for Youth, director of FusionSJ and River Valley Recreational Center, chair of the board for Credit Counselling Services of Atlantic Canada, and the treasurer for the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Saint John. She was also recently named to the board of directors for Port Saint John. Host Katie Davey (BA’17) chats with her about being an active member of the community through building good governance and providing a helping hand. In this episode:   A backgrounder on the wide range of activities of the YMCA in southern New Brunswick and Saint John. How community programs are supporting employment and the economy. How to do community health better Growing as a leader and working with a board of directors How to keep planning for the future and learning how to think strategically about future needs The importance of good governance for both non-profits and corporate Links and resources:   Thanks to:   Our , Katie Davey Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife   To listen to past episodes of UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/33184252

#40: Host Katie Davey on her own work in public policy, social innovation and social entrepreneurship in New Brunswick 08/15/2024

#40: Host Katie Davey on her own work in public policy, social innovation and social entrepreneurship in New Brunswick In this special episode as the finale to Season 3, we turn the tables on UNBeknownst host Katie Davey (BA’17). In her day job, Katie is a public policy expert and social innovator, currently serving as the Pond-Deshpande Centre’s (PDC) Executive Director at the University of New Brunswick. Previously, she was the Director of Policy & Media at the Public Policy Forum, and also served as senior advisor in the Office of the Premier of New Brunswick. Armed with a degree in political science from UNB and master’s in applied politics from Wilfrid Laurier University, Katie has the perfect mix of academic and real-world savvy to tackle socio-economic challenges through social innovation, entrepreneurship, and public policy. Selected as a top innovator by Atlantic Business Magazine in 2023, Katie is a go-to voice in political commentary and opinion writing, making waves in major publications and as a regular on CBC New Brunswick and Atlantic. She is the Founder and Principal of Femme Wonk and serves on the Board of Directors for the Human Development Council, Action Canada, and other community groups. In this episode:   Katie’s origin story and how she got her start into politics, public policy and advocacy. The impact of UNB’s Pond-Deshponde Centre and what exactly social innovation and social entrepreneurship means on the ground. The social innovation lab – and how that’s shifting things in New Brunswick. Problem-solving through the lens of social good. The growth of ventures working on social innovation and social good in New Brunswick. The information/communications challenges of our current environment. How New Brunswick is stacking up against other jurisdictions around the world for social innovation and growth. Links and resources: Thanks to:   Our , Katie Davey Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife   To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/32586067

#39: Nicole LeBlanc on sustainable communities, tech investment and women in venture capital 05/23/2024

#39: Nicole LeBlanc on sustainable communities, tech investment and women in venture capital Nicole LeBlanc (BBA’00) is a partner with Woven Capital in Tokyo, focusing on investments in mobility, energy, and sustainability that support and accelerate Toyota’s mission to build the safest mobility in the world. Prior to that she was a partner in Denmark with 2150, an urban tech & sustainability fund focused on supporting the growth of sustainable cities. She’s held previous positions as director of investments for Alphabet’s Sidewalk Labs in Toronto, and as director at BDC Capital and at the New Brunswick Innovation Foundation. Nicole is also a founder and investor in Sandpiper.vc, a women-led venture fund based in Atlantic Canada aiming to support women as both founders and investors. She’s a huge proponent of encouraging and supporting women in the venture capital sector, and I’m very excited to talk with her about why that’s so important, as well as why she feels so strongly in investing in technology for our collective future. In this episode:   How Nicole first started in venture capital and the opportunities around the world that led her to becoming an expert in the field Her position in Toronto at Sidewalk Labs that hooked her on green cities and urban tech. Why corporate companies have growth/venture capital firms. How companies can implement sustainability implement solutions in their systems – and why Nicole is excited about startups providing those solutions. The role of corporate venture capitalist How smaller municipalities can have a great impact on lives and drive change. The Copenhagen urban model. How engaging everyone in communities is key to finding solutions and capital sources. Why there is a low rate of women in venture capital and how more women can break into it. How Atlantic Canadian communities can be successful in building smart, sustainable places to live and work, even with fewer resources. Links and resources:   Thanks to:   Our , Katie Davey Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife   To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/31431637

#38: Dr. Jen Woodland on integrated health research and the importance of knowledge translation 04/18/2024

#37: Victoria LaBillois on economic reconciliation in Canada 03/21/2024

#37: Victoria LaBillois on economic reconciliation in Canada Mi’gmaq entrepreneur Victoria LaBillois (BA’91, MBA’04) is the owner of Wejipeg Excavation Inc. and co-owner of Wejuseg Construction Inc, and oversaw the completion of a major wind park in Gaspesie, Quebec, where the companies trained and engaged over 100 Mi’gmaq tradespeople. Victoria has served both the First Nation and federal public service, working at the Band, regional, and national levels.  She is currently serving as Vice-Chair of the National Indigenous Economic Development Board, and represents the National Indigenous Economic Development Board in the development of Canada’s first National Indigenous Economic Strategy. In addition to advocating for and facilitating conversations at the highest levels around economic reconciliation, she is all about giving back to her community, serving as a mentor and coach to Indigenous women and helping youth build skills around financial literacy. In 2019 AND 2020, Victoria was honoured by the WXN as one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women. In this episode:   How Victoria went from Arts graduate to owner of a construction and excavation company Context around why we need to talk about economic reconciliation for Canada’s Indigenous peoples What economic reconciliation practically means The process of drafting a National Indigenous Economic Strategy for Canada and creating a strategy to advance economic reconciliation – and highlights from this important document that guides government, academia and corporate Canada The 4 essential ingredients to economic prosperity for Indigenous peoples in Canada How all of us can help further economic reconciliation Links and resources: Thanks to:   Our , Katie Davey Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/30476613

#36: Tosin Ajibola on blending social good with technology in Canada 02/16/2024

#36: Tosin Ajibola on blending social good with technology in Canada Social and technology entrepreneur Tosin Ajibola (MEng’20) moved from Nigeria to Canada to earn a Master of Engineering degree in Technology Management and Entrepreneurship from UNB. Out of that hands-on program, he and other newcomer classmates co-developed Welkom-U, an innovative online platform that puts newcomers, immigrants, and international students in touch with the things they need to survive and thrive. As CEO of Welkom-U, Tosin is focused on solving problems through technology AND making a social impact. He is a member of the Atlantic Growth Solutions team, and he serves on the board of Venn Innovation, on the board of the Fredericton Chamber of Commerce and on the advisory board at Social Enterprise World Forum. He also leads the Atlantic Canada Chapter of BlackBoysCode, a non-profit organization that aims to improve the future of young black boys through Computer Science and Technology. And he’s been getting noticed: he was named a Top 30 under 30 Innovator in Atlantic Canada in 2021, a Top 25 Canadian Immigrant in 2022 & Top Youth Immigrant in Canada 2022. In this episode:   Tosin’s personal experience starting a new life in Canada and how that helped inform his startup idea The challenges that newcomers to Canada face, and how Tosin and Welkom-U are working to reduce or eliminate those. Why retention of immigrants is important to Canada and the Maritime region and what we can do to increase that retention. How leveraging technology and entrepreneurship can be used for a larger social purpose – and how that makes all the difference in Canada. Links and resources:   Thanks to:   Our , Katie Davey Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife   To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/29983488

#35: UNB Chancellor Wade MacLauchlan on the role of universities and education in our collective future 01/18/2024

#34: Mohamed Bagha on growing strong communities by engaging newcomers 12/21/2023

#33: Barbara Wasson on how technology and AI are shaping the future of learning 11/23/2023

#33: Barbara Wasson on how technology and AI are shaping the future of learning Barbara Wasson (BScCS’82) is the director for SLATE - The Science of Learning and Technology, the Norwegian national centre for learning analytics. She is one of the founders of Kaleidoscope, a European Network of Excellence on Technology Enhanced Learning and has been the principal researcher on numerous Norwegian and international projects. She is also member of the Norwegian Ministry of Education’s Expert group on Learning Analytics and the Council of Europe Expert Group on AI in Education. Barbara is passionate about learning analytics, AI and education, learning games, e-assessment, teacher inquiry, and data literacy. Host Katie Davey chats with her about the future of data and technology in learning design. In this episode:   Barbara’s experience growing up around computers at UNB and how she got into learning analytics and AI Policy around learning analytics and AI in the classroom and how privacy and ethics policy is crucial. How much data can we use to aid in learning without harming children’s privacy? The astounding amount of important data all around us, and the dilemmas this causes for teaching and learning in schools. The importance of data literacy and AI and how to prepare people for how AI will be a part of daily life soon. How to learn with AI, and empowering students at an early age to use technology and AI. Who decides what knowledge is? How does that affect creativity and innovation? Barbara’s thoughts on future trends in technology in learning. Links and resources:   Thanks to:   Our , Katie Davey Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife   To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/28771308

#32: Sara Taaffe on the tension between economic progress and sustainability 10/19/2023

#31: Mike Corey on facing your fears to go far 09/21/2023

#31: Mike Corey on facing your fears to go far Mike Corey (BSc’08) is a biology graduate turned travel host who never turns down an adventure. His curiosity has sent him searching out cultures, creatures, and locations that most people avoid – with the aim of facing – and even chasing – fear. This intense passion has led him to grow his YouTube Channel “Fearless & Far” to over 2M subscribers, receive 2 Emmy nominations for his Adventure Travel TV program "Uncharted Adventure", and an Ambie nomination for his podcast "Against the Odds". Mike’s career began after receiving his Bachelor of Science from UNB, then backpacking the world for five years volunteering as a research assistant for scientists studying ocean conservation. Bringing a camera along for these trips allowed him to capture the material he needed to win several international travel video competitions and begin his YouTube Channel. Now a top travel influencer, Mike enjoys teaching others how to face their fears to become happier. In this episode:   The adventure that gave Mike the travel bug and what made him realize the world is gentler than we think. How his obsession with animals and nature turned into a passion for people. Lessons he’s learned from people he’s met in his exotic travels. Why humans need a challenge and purpose to thrive. What fearlessness and conquering fear actually means. The quiet fears that sneak up on you. He says “fear is the compass” is his life and directs him in his actions. How everyone can start to face their fears. The importance of stories – and how they’re told everywhere. Where to listen:  Spotify  Apple Podcasts  Libsyn  Google Podcasts  Links and resources:   Thanks to:   Our , Katie Davey Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife   To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/28101575

#30: Teresa Fowler on the need for a reckoning in Canadian hockey culture 06/08/2023

#30: Teresa Fowler on the need for a reckoning in Canadian hockey culture Dr. Teresa Fowler (MEd’11) is a researcher who is diving into the sexism, misogyny and hypermasculinity of hockey in Canada and who is now working directly with Hockey Canada to try to correct the enduring problems. She is an assistant professor at Concordia University of Edmonton in the faculty of education. Her research focuses on critical white masculinities and the implications of masculinity on men's mental health in hockey culture as well as anti-colonial pedagogic approaches to teacher education. She received her Master of Education from UNB and PhD from the University of Calgary, and she has over 15 years of professional experience in K-12 education in the areas of guidance and counselling, mental health services, and Indigenous education. Teresa is a member of Scholars Against Abuse in Canadian Sport that have partnered with Center for Children’s Rights to push for a judicial inquiry into the sport. In this episode:   Teresa’s family background and how she began noticing indifferences in the culture of young men in hockey What is causing harm to young hockey players' identities and mental health Shifting the culture of hockey away from aggression and back to skills and competition. How silence is hard to break. Our research shows that sexisim in hockey culture is as normal as the air they breathe. Shocking examples of sexism grooming in young hockey culture in Canada. Her work with Hockey Canada to help them make the right changes. How Hockey Canada can take the lead and make a shift nationwide and why that’s important for all sports. Harassment experienced for doing this kind of work. How white supremacy is tied to misogyny in hockey in Canada. The introduction of white male love into men’s hockey in the country. How to begin making positive changes in toxic masculine culture. How men’s equality is important in the conversation. The status of an inquiry in sport in Canada, and Teresa’s recommendation at the inquiry to move sport away from Heritage Canada into Health. Links and resources:   Thanks to:   Our , Katie Davey Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife   To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/27080595

#29: Lea Nicholas MacKenzie on championing Indigenous human rights 05/11/2023

#29: Lea Nicholas MacKenzie on championing Indigenous human rights Lea Nicholas-MacKenzie (BA’91) is a trailblazer for Indigenous rights: she’s the former Special Advisor for Indigenous Issues to the UN, former Chief of Staff to then Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, the Honourable Jody Wilson-Raybould, and past Chief of Staff to the National Chief at the Assembly of First Nations. She also served as Director of Aboriginal Participation and Chief of Protocol for the Four Host First Nations during the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Lea is a member of the Wəlastəkwey Nation at Tobique, New Brunswick and holds a BA in Language and Linguistics UNB - and since then has gained extensive experience in international relations focused on the human rights of Indigenous Peoples. In 2021 she was named one of Canada’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women. In this episode:   -Lea’s family background and family role models – and how she learned that advocacy can make a difference -Lea’s first roles and how she learned how the system worked -Her experience on and off for many years at the Assembly of First Nations, including Chief of Staff at age 27. -Her experience advocating at the United Nations. -What led to becoming a seasoned leader and ready to serve with Jody Wilson-Raybould in the Minister of Justice and Attorney General’s office, and her experience with that chance to make change. -Her principles of justice, integrity and truth telling and how they didn’t always mesh with the realities of politics -Her work today in human rights, governance and reconciliation -The Indigenous rights advancements that are giving her hope -Ideas for being an ally moving forward and how to further the Calls to Action -What Lea is optimistic about for the future Links and resources:   Thanks to:   -Our , Katie Davey -Music by alumni artist,   -Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/26810328

#28: Mark Leger on the future of local journalism and its importance in building communities 04/13/2023

#27: Balarama Holness on education, politics and confronting systemic racism 03/09/2023

#26: Deborah Lyons on being Ambassador and UN representative in Afghanistan – and why education for women is critical for global stability 02/09/2023

#26: Deborah Lyons on being Ambassador and UN representative in Afghanistan – and why education for women is critical for global stability Ambassador Deborah Lyons (BA’71, DLitt'15) is a diplomat with 21 years of professional experience in political affairs, international cooperation and economic development. Her most recent assignment was as Special Representative and Head of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan, having served prior to that as Ambassador of Canada to Israel and before that as Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. Ms. Lyons has held several senior positions with Canada’s Department of Global Affairs, including as Deputy Ambassador at the Embassy of Canada in Washington, Assistant Deputy Minister for Strategic Policy and Planning and Chief Strategist, and directorships covering commercial relations, international finance and technology. She has also worked with Canada’s Department of Natural Resources and Privy Council Office and owned and managed an environmental consulting firm. Ms. Lyons is from Miramichi, New Brunswick and graduated from UNB in 1971 with a Bachelor of Arts degree. In this episode:   Deborah’s account of being in Afghanistan during an extremely challenging transition period of the American withdrawal of troops and takeover by the Taliban. Why she’s such a fan of the United Nations and why she wanted to be in Afghanistan at that time. The progress she saw in the country prior to the Taliban takeover and her feelings on the state of women in Afghanistan today. Her insights on the future for women in Afghanistan, and on engaging and educating women for global societal stability. What Canada and Canadians can and should do to help support women in Afghanistan. Deborah’s two realities - that formed who she is. Her thoughts on next steps in her career and role in diffusing the growth of divisive hate speech and discourse in Canada and around the world. Her advice on how we move forward in a changing world. Links and resources:   Thanks to:   Our , Katie Davey Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife   To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/25878825

#25: John Leroux on what it means to love a place and why architecture and art are so important in attracting and inspiring people 01/12/2023

#25: John Leroux on what it means to love a place and why architecture and art are so important in attracting and inspiring people John Leroux (PhD’20) is an architect, art historian and currently Manager of Collections and Exhibitions at the Beaverbrook Art Gallery in Fredericton, New Brunswick. John has a wealth of knowledge and experience in the fields of art history, architecture, visual art, curation, and education. He holds a Bachelor of Architecture from McGill University, an M.A. in Art History from Concordia University, and a PhD in History from UNB. He has worked at award-winning architecture firms in Toronto, Atlanta, Saint John, and his hometown of Fredericton – and has taught at the New Brunswick College of Craft and Design, the University of New Brunswick, and St. Thomas University. He’s also won many awards for architectural and public art projects throughout Canada. A passionate advocate for the arts and for architectural conservancy, John has authored 16 books on architecture and visual culture, including Building New Brunswick: An Architectural History and Building a University: The Architecture of UNB. In this episode:   The magnificent historical architecture of New Brunswick and the not-so-magnificent modern architecture of New Brunswick. What it means to love a place and steward it Why the places that are popular are because of the quality of the environment John’s favourite building in New Brunswick The unique nature of wooden architecture in the Maritimes John’s favourite buildings on UNB’s campuses and why they’re significant The history behind the built environments of the Saint John and Fredericton campuses John’s favourite artwork in Fredericton – and it’s on the UNB campus! His thoughts on the expansion of the Beaverbrook Art Gallery Links and resources:   Thanks to:   Our , Katie Davey Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife  To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/25585056

#24: Krista Jones on the future of work, the intersection of people with digital transformation, and how Canada can be competitive globally 12/08/2022

#24: Krista Jones on the future of work, the intersection of people with digital transformation, and how Canada can be competitive globally Krista Jones (BScEE'88) has been a passionate innovator and builder of technology-based businesses for over 30 years. She leverages her deep entrepreneurial and leadership experience to advise founders, inspire teams and create programs to scale Canada’s most innovative companies. Currently Senior VP of Ventures Services at MaRS Discovery District, she recently founded MaRS Momentum, an exclusive program that supports the executives of high-growth companies and accelerates their journey to $100 million in revenue. Krista is relied on as thought leader in the “Future of Work” by organizations from all around the world. As an engineer, entrepreneur, mentor and expert problem solver, she has a unique combination of expertise and is known for her comprehensive knowledge of existing and emerging technologies, business models and innovation practices. In this episode:   How Krista gained the confidence to go big on projects and ideas. Going deep in different areas of MaRS and supporting entrepreneurs. The future of jobs and how people can use tech while keeping the focus on people. How automation – or rather augmentation - plays a role in the evolution of jobs. Why companies are making short-term decisions right now. Krista dives into the Momentum program to help solve Canada’s productivity gap. How to close the innovation loop. Why Canada should embrace the success metrics of good, better, best. The challenges that persist in Canada when it comes to joining the global competition. What Krista is excited about for the future. Links and resources:   Thanks to:   Our , Katie Davey Music by alumni artist,   Our alumni , TD Insurance and Manulife To listen to UNBeknownst and for more info on the podcast, the hosts and how to subscribe to new episode alerts, visit our  /episode/index/show/unbeknownstalumni/id/25265598

#23: Donald Savoie on the centralization of power in Western governments, lack of public trust in our leaders, and what government IS good at 11/10/2022

#22: Emilie Chiasson on creating human-centered designs and solving big challenges through collective action and gender equality 10/13/2022

#21: Josh O’Kane on Sidewalk Labs and “the city Google couldn’t buy” 09/07/2022

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