Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Venture Capital with Lise Birikundavyi

In Episode 221 of The Business Development Podcast, Kelly Kennedy revisits a topic that has defined the show’s success—what to look for in a business development specialist. Episode 2, which covered this topic over two years ago, remains the most listened-to episode in the podcast’s history, proving its lasting relevance. However, the business development landscape has evolved significantly since then, with shifts in technology, social media strategies, and sales approaches. In this updated deep dive, Kelly breaks down 15 essential traits that define a top-performing business development specialist in 2025, from likability and mental resilience to social media mastery and personal branding. He stresses that while tools and tactics change, authentic connection and consistent outreach remain the foundation of success in business development.This episode serves as both a hiring guide for business owners and a self-improvement blueprint for business developers looking to stay ahead of the curve. With more competition and evolving client expectations, Kelly explains how today’s business developers must balance traditional strategies with modern techniques, using a mix of relationship-building, digital engagement, and adaptability. He also shares how to identify and hire high-performing candidates, ensuring they align with a company’s values and long-term goals. Whether you're looking to refine your own business development skills or hire the next top-performing specialist, this episode builds on the insights of Episode 2 while delivering a fresh, strategic perspective for 2025 and beyond.Key Takeaways:1. Episode 2 was the most listened-to episode in the show’s history, proving the importance of hiring the right business development specialist. 2. The role of a business developer has evolved significantly in the last two years, requiring new skills and adaptability. 3. Likability remains the foundation of great business developers and is difficult, if not impossible, to teach. 4. Mental resilience is essential—successful business developers don’t take rejection personally and push forward. 5. Social media and personal branding are now mandatory skills for business development success. 6. Strong verbal and written communication skills set top performers apart, especially in a world of short attention spans. 7. Business development success is measured in meetings—calls, emails, and social media are just tools to achieve them. 8. A great business development specialist is both self-motivated and aligned with the company’s mission and values. 9. Balancing traditional business development strategies with modern digital tools is the key to long-term success. 10. Hiring the right specialist in 2025 means looking beyond degrees and focusing on adaptability, trustworthiness, and consistent performance.Master Business Development with Kelly Kennedy – Book Your Free Discovery Call Success isn’t luck—it’s strategy. Get the tools, confidence, and proven frameworks to close more deals and scale your business. ✔ Actionable strategies to generate leads & grow revenue ✔ Personalized coaching tailored to your goals ✔ A roadmap to business development mastery Ready to level up? Book your free discovery call now

19 Mars 40min

In Episode 220 of The Business Development Podcast, Kelly Kennedy welcomes Michelle Coulson, founder of Remote Rebellion, to explore the rise of remote work and the end of the traditional 9-to-5. Michelle shares her journey from corporate recruitment to building a location-independent career, helping professionals escape the office and take control of their work-life balance. She breaks down the biggest obstacles—both personal and organizational—that hold people back from embracing remote work and provides a roadmap for those looking to make the leap.The conversation dives into how businesses can adapt to the remote revolution, from hiring top global talent to maintaining productivity and culture in a virtual environment. Michelle debunks the myths surrounding remote work, explains how Gen Z and Millennials are driving this shift, and shares strategies for thriving in a world where flexibility and autonomy are the new gold standard. If you’ve ever dreamed of ditching the office and building a career on your terms, this episode is your blueprint.Key Takeaways: 1. Remote work is no longer a trend—it’s a movement redefining careers and work-life balance worldwide. 2. The biggest barrier to remote success isn’t technology—it’s mindset. Shifting from office-based habits to autonomy requires discipline and self-awareness. 3. Companies that resist remote work are losing top talent as Gen Z and Millennials prioritize flexibility and control over their careers. 4. Remote work doesn’t mean working from home forever—it’s about freedom of choice, whether that’s a home office, a co-working space, or a beach in Bali. 5. The key to remote career success is proactive communication, structured routines, and clear boundaries between work and personal life. 6. Businesses that thrive remotely focus on outcomes over hours, measuring productivity by results rather than time spent at a desk. 7. Hiring the right remote employees means looking for self-motivated problem solvers who thrive in independent environments. 8. The digital nomad lifestyle isn’t for everyone—but remote work opens up new possibilities for travel, financial freedom, and career autonomy. 9. Leadership in remote teams requires intentional culture-building, trust, and the right digital tools to maintain collaboration and engagement. 10. The future of work is already here. Those who embrace remote work now will be ahead of the curve, while those who resist risk falling behind.Links referenced in this episode:Remote RebellionCapital Business Development Master Business Development with Kelly Kennedy – Book Your Free Discovery Call Success isn’t luck—it’s strategy. Get the tools, confidence, and proven frameworks to close more deals and scale your business. ✔ Actionable strategies to generate leads & grow revenue ✔ Personalized coaching tailored to your goals ✔ A roadmap to business development mastery Ready to level up? Book your free discovery call now

16 Mars 59min

In Episode 219 of The Business Development Podcast, Kelly Kennedy takes on one of the most overused and misunderstood concepts in business—authenticity. Everyone talks about it, but what does it actually mean? Why do so many people struggle to embrace it? And more importantly, how does authenticity impact business, branding, and success? Kelly breaks down the five biggest reasons people avoid being their true selves—fear of judgment, the need for acceptance, fear of failure, societal conditioning, and a lack of self-awareness. But knowing these barriers isn’t enough—this episode is about taking action. Kelly lays out five powerful steps to start showing up as your authentic self, build real trust, and turn authenticity into a competitive edge. He challenges listeners to stop holding back, rethink failure, and start making choices that align with who they really are. If you’ve ever hesitated to speak your truth, worried about what others think, or struggled to stand out in a crowded market, this episode will change your perspective. Authenticity isn’t just about feeling good—it’s the key to deeper connections, stronger influence, and lasting success. Key Takeaways: 1. Authenticity is a choice—you have to actively decide to show up as your true self every day. 2. Fear doesn’t mean stop—it means you’re growing, and stepping into something bigger. 3. People are drawn to realness, making authenticity the fastest way to build trust in business. 4. The biggest roadblock to authenticity is the fear of judgment—but most people respect honesty. 5. In a crowded market, being authentic is your biggest differentiator—no one can replicate you. 6. Saying no to things that don’t align with you is just as important as saying yes to the right ones. 7. Speaking your truth in small ways daily helps build confidence and makes authenticity a habit. 8. People often hold back because of past conditioning—it’s time to unlearn what doesn’t serve you. 9. Failure is part of growth—every step outside your comfort zone is a win. 10. Authenticity isn’t just personal—it’s a business strategy that leads to trust, engagement, and sales.Master Business Development with Kelly Kennedy – Book Your Free Discovery Call Success isn’t luck—it’s strategy. Get the tools, confidence, and proven frameworks to close more deals and scale your business. ✔ Actionable strategies to generate leads & grow revenue ✔ Personalized coaching tailored to your goals ✔ A roadmap to business development mastery Ready to level up? Book your free discovery call now

12 Mars 29min

Episode 218 of The Business Development Podcast features an in-depth conversation with Meaghan Ralston, the powerhouse entrepreneur behind Maggie Jane Marketing. Meaghan shares her journey from B2B sales to launching her own marketing empire, which hit seven figures in its first year. She recounts her transition from automotive advertising to digital printing, ultimately leading to the founding of her agency. Her story is one of resilience, integrity, and strategic pivots, as she turned challenges—including a failed equity promise—into opportunities. Throughout the episode, Meaghan and Kelly dive into the evolution of the business world, emphasizing the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing digital landscape.The conversation also explores the rise of LinkedIn as a critical marketing tool, the impact of AI on content creation, and the unique challenges of marketing within regulated industries like cannabis. Meaghan reflects on the volatile nature of the cannabis industry in Canada, from its explosive early days to the harsh reality of market corrections in 2023. She and Kelly discuss the necessity of building authentic connections, the importance of personal branding, and the changing trends in digital marketing for 2025. Packed with insights and real-world lessons, this episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, marketers, and business leaders looking to stay ahead in today’s competitive landscape.Key Takeaways: 1. Success in marketing requires adaptability – pivoting between industries and strategies ensures long-term growth. 2. Resilience is key – turning setbacks into opportunities separates thriving businesses from those that struggle. 3. Relationships drive business – strong industry connections and a reputation for integrity create long-term loyalty. 4. The marketing landscape is constantly shifting – staying ahead with digital strategies, AI tools, and evolving trends is essential. 5. LinkedIn is non-negotiable – it has become a powerful tool for business development, brand credibility, and lead generation. 6. Regulated industries require creativity – strict advertising limitations force businesses to innovate within legal constraints. 7. AI enhances marketing but cannot replace humans – while it streamlines content creation and design, human oversight is critical for authenticity. 8. Building a business requires relentless hustle – growth comes from strong networks, consistency, and a commitment to delivering results. 9. Personal branding is a long game – posting consistently and sharing valuable insights builds authority and attracts opportunities. 10. The future of marketing is about connection – brands that genuinely engage with their audience and adapt will thrive in 2025 and beyond.Master Business Development with Kelly Kennedy – Book Your Free Discovery Session Business growth isn’t about luck—it’s about mastery. The Business Development Mastery Program with Kelly Kennedy gives you the tools, strategies, and confidence to scale your business, close more deals, and build lasting success. ✔ Proven business development frameworks that drive real results ✔ Personalized coaching tailored to your goals and challenges ✔ Actionable strategies to generate leads, close deals, and grow revenue If you're serious about taking your business development skills to the next level, let’s talk. Book your free discovery session today and see how this program can help you achieve your goals. Links referenced in this episode:capitalbd.caCompanies mentioned in this episode: Maggie Jane Marketing Capital Business Development Calgary Sun Eco Claim Rotary...

9 Mars 1h 11min

In Episode 217 of The Business Development Podcast, Kelly Kennedy breaks down the five critical business development skills you must master to succeed in 2025 and beyond. With the business landscape evolving rapidly—new technologies, shifting client expectations, and increasing digital reliance—sticking to outdated strategies will leave you behind. Kelly emphasizes the power of communication, from mastering phone and voicemail skills to crafting concise, engaging emails that capture attention in seconds. He also highlights the importance of detective work in BD, ensuring you're targeting the right people with precision rather than relying on a volume-based approach. Beyond traditional BD strategies, Kelly explores the growing impact of social media and personal branding, urging business developers to leverage LinkedIn not just for networking but as a powerful lead-generation tool. He stresses the necessity of organization, advocating for CRMs, structured scheduling, and goal tracking to maximize efficiency. Finally, Kelly reminds listeners that belief and consistency are the ultimate differentiators—when you trust in your process and commit to continuous growth, success follows. Whether you're new to BD or a seasoned pro, this episode provides a roadmap for staying competitive in 2025’s fast-changing business world.Key Takeaways: 1. Business development in 2025 requires constant adaptation to new tools and strategies to stay effective. 2. Phone skills remain the most powerful BD tool, with a well-crafted pitch and confident voicemails increasing meeting success. 3. Short, compelling emails with a strong hook are critical as attention spans continue to shrink. 4. LinkedIn is now a mandatory BD tool, and a strong personal brand boosts engagement and credibility. 5. Targeted outreach is more effective than mass calls and emails—doing the detective work upfront leads to better results. 6. CRMs are essential for staying organized, tracking progress, and ensuring consistent follow-up. 7. Personal branding elevates corporate branding, increasing visibility and engagement for both. 8. Consistency in BD efforts over time builds momentum, leading to long-term success. 9. Asking “What are the next steps?” at the end of every meeting ensures progress and prevents lost opportunities. 10. Belief in your product, service, and yourself is the foundation for successful business development.Master Business Development with Kelly Kennedy – Free Discovery SessionSuccess in business isn’t random—it’s built on strategy, skill, and consistency. The Business Development Mastery Program arms you with the proven techniques to win more deals, create new opportunities, and accelerate growth—whether you're an owner, executive, or BD professional.✔ Proven frameworks to generate leads and close deals faster✔ Tailored coaching to overcome challenges and scale with confidence✔ Actionable strategies to drive revenue and long-term successIf you're ready to take control of your business growth, let’s talk. Book your free discovery session today.Book NowLinks referenced in this episode:capitalbd.ca

5 Mars 58min

Episode 216 of The Business Development Podcast takes listeners on an extraordinary journey with CR Holmes, a visionary entrepreneur who has navigated the worlds of music, business, and international culture in remarkable ways. From leaving home at 16 to finding success in the music industry, the military, and entrepreneurship, CR’s story is one of resilience and adaptability. His experiences in China, including living through the COVID-19 outbreak in Wuhan as a crisis volunteer, provide a firsthand look at life inside a locked-down city. His time in China also led to the creation of Your Beat, Inc., a platform designed to empower artists, improve music monetization, and build a thriving community for independent musicians. CR shares powerful insights on the challenges artists face in the modern music industry, explaining how his platform prioritizes live performances, artist independence, and fair compensation over streaming royalties. He also discusses his entrepreneurial philosophy, emphasizing consistency, taking risks, and seizing opportunities as they arise. Throughout the conversation, CR’s passion for supporting the underdog shines through, whether it's through music, technology, or helping people in crisis. His journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, adaptability, and taking control of one’s own destiny.Key Takeaways:1. True opportunity knocks once—you either take it or walk away. 2. The music industry often fails artists financially, and Your Beat was built to change that. 3. Live performances account for 85% of an artist’s income, so securing gigs should be their main focus. 4. Fear is more dangerous than the virus itself—during COVID, misinformation and panic did more harm than good. 5. In China, hospitality and generosity are deeply ingrained—many families will take in strangers without hesitation. 6. Business success requires daily consistency—showing up and putting in time makes all the difference. 7. Spotify is not a reliable income source for artists—1,000 true fans are worth more than a million streams. 8. Business in China operates differently—contracts must be airtight, and relationships are key to success. 9. Entrepreneurship requires constant reinvention—adapting to circumstances is the only way to survive. 10. A strong support system is crucial for artists—having the right network enables creative and financial growth. Links referenced in this episode:capitalbd.cayourbeat.ca

2 Mars 1h 21min

Episode 215 of The Business Development Podcast dives deep into the transformative power of goal setting and why it’s a game-changer for both business and personal success. Kelly Kennedy breaks down the science behind written goals, revealing that individuals are 42% more likely to achieve them simply by putting them on paper. He shares his personal journey with goal setting and explains how structuring annual, weekly, and daily goals can significantly improve efficiency, drive revenue growth, and create long-term success. Business owners will learn how to align revenue targets with measurable sales activities, ensuring their teams have clear, actionable steps to achieve business development objectives.Beyond business, Kelly explores how goal setting fosters momentum in all aspects of life, from career growth to personal achievements. He provides a simple yet powerful framework for creating effective goal lists, emphasizing the importance of prioritization and consistent review. By implementing these strategies, listeners will gain the clarity, motivation, and structure needed to reach their biggest ambitions. Whether you're an entrepreneur, sales professional, or someone looking to level up, this episode delivers a practical, high-impact blueprint for turning vision into reality.Key Takeaways:1. Writing down your goals makes you 42% more likely to achieve them, according to research by Dr. Gail Matthews. 2. Goal setting is not just for New Year’s resolutions—it should be done annually, weekly, and even daily for maximum impact. 3. Revenue targets alone don’t drive success—business owners must break them down into controllable metrics for their sales and BD teams. 4. Measuring success by meetings booked instead of revenue helps BD teams stay motivated and on track toward hitting company goals. 5. A simple formula for growth: customers required ÷ closing rate percentage = required number of meetings to hit your targets. 6. Writing priority-based weekly and daily goal lists ensures that the most important tasks always get done first. 7. The act of writing goals activates your brain’s Reticular Activating System (RAS), keeping you focused on what matters most. 8. Separating business and personal goals helps create a clearer vision for both professional and personal growth. 9. Using a notepad instead of a phone or computer for goal setting increases retention and effectiveness. 10. Small, consistent daily actions lead to massive long-term success - goal setting turns intention into action.Links referenced in this episode:capitalbd.ca

26 Feb 31min

Episode 214 of The Business Development Podcast features Brett Colvin, CEO and co-founder of GoodLawyer, who is on a mission to fix what’s broken in the legal industry. Brett shares his journey from corporate lawyer at one of Canada’s largest firms to disrupting the status quo with a smarter, more accessible legal model. He explains how traditional law firms operate on outdated structures that leave both businesses and lawyers frustrated—leading to a staggering statistic that half of all lawyers leave the profession within five years. With GoodLawyer, Brett is pioneering fractional legal services, offering businesses high-quality, in-house-style legal support without the overwhelming costs of big firms.In this episode, Brett and I dive into why the current legal system doesn’t work for most entrepreneurs, the biggest legal blind spots that hurt growing businesses, and how his company is giving both lawyers and clients more flexibility and value. We discuss the power of transparent pricing, the challenges of building a legal tech startup, and why Brett believes the future of legal is changing fast. If you’re a business owner, startup founder, or just someone who has struggled with legal services, this episode will give you insights into a better way forward.Key Takeaways: 1. The traditional legal model is outdated and doesn’t serve entrepreneurs effectively. 2. Half of all lawyers leave the profession within five years due to burnout and lack of fulfillment. 3. Law firms take 80% of the value from billable hours, leaving both lawyers and clients frustrated. 4. Fractional legal services provide businesses with in-house-style legal support at a fraction of the cost. 5. Transparent, upfront pricing removes friction and helps businesses make smarter legal decisions. 6. Lawyers can make more money and have better work-life balance outside of traditional law firms. 7. A strong legal foundation early on prevents costly mistakes for startups and small businesses. 8. Innovation in the legal industry is possible but requires breaking away from outdated structures. 9. Business owners often don’t realize they need legal help until it’s too late. 10. The future of law is changing fast, and entrepreneurs need flexible legal solutions to keep up.Links referenced in this episode:goodlawyer.cacapitalbd.caCompanies mentioned in this episode: Good Lawyer Capital Business Development Calgary Chamber Globe and Mail

23 Feb 1h 1min