ELO Network Podcast

Hear from James Poulter, author of AI at Work, discuss his new book with ELO Network Chairman Rick Goossen. AI at Work provides a framework that moves beyond scattered AI experiments toward a coherent strategy that will run throughout your entire company. Rather than focusing on technical capabilities or dystopian warnings, it utilizes a full-stack approach to harness AI's benefits while preserving what matters most - a firm's people, its values and its unique organizational identity. Learn more about the ELO Network here. Learn more about AI at Work here.

In this live episode from the ELO Forum Toronto in 2025, Rick Rusaw of gloo delivers a thought-provoking presentation on innovation, digital ecosystems, and the future of Christian leadership in a rapidly shifting cultural landscape. Drawing on his experience at the intersection of technology, data, and faith-based initiatives, Rick explores how leaders can harness tools responsibly while remaining anchored in purpose. Following the presentation, Rick joins Rick Goossen for a candid Q&A—tackling real questions around trust, AI, collaboration, risk, and what it means to lead faithfully in an increasingly connected world.

What separates good leaders from truly influential ones? In this episode, Kyle Thompson from Catalyst Resource Group shares his biggest lessons on leadership, connection, and relational influence—straight from his presentation at the ELO Forums in 2025. If your leadership journey includes people (it does), this is one you won’t want to miss.

Paul Verhoeff, Principal, Verhoeff Group of Companies, and Lance Verhoeff, Co-Founder, Trading Post Brewing, join Rick Goossen for this week's podcast. In this episode, we step into the world of family-run businesses with a focus on entrepreneurial success. Hear the inspiring story of how passion and craft come together to build a thriving family business, and learn about the unique challenges and rewards of blending family and business.

Andy Steiger, Founder & President, Apologetics Canadas, joins Rick Goossen for this week's podcast. In this episode, we explore the transformative impact of the AI revolution, breaking down the technology driving change and offering a thoughtful Christian perspective on how organizations can adapt and thrive. Learn practical strategies to navigate this new landscape while staying true to your values.

Jennifer Paulson, COO, Vanderbloemen Search Group, and Bryson Isom, Account Manager, Vanderbloemen Search Group, join Rick Goossen for this week's podcast. Discover what sets extraordinary leaders apart. This episode dives into the habits, strategies, and mindsets that drive exceptional leadership, offering actionable insights to help you lead with impact and authenticity. Whether you're managing a team or aspiring to grow as a leader, these proven principles will inspire you to break the mold and achieve greatness.

Geoff Otten, President, Otter Valley Concrete, and Vice-President of Philanthropy, Cardus, joins Rick Goossen for this week's podcast. In this episode, we dive into the intersection of business and ministry, exploring whether these two callings are separate paths or if they can be interconnected. Whether you're called to the marketplace, the mission field, or somewhere in between, this conversation will inspire and equip you to live out your purpose with clarity and confidence.

Francisco Banegas, CEO, IDH Microfinanceria, and his translator, Victor Funes, Manager of Business, IDH Microfinanceria, join Rick Goossen for this week's podcast. This episode explores how small loans are transforming lives and communities in Honduras by empowering emerging entrepreneurs. Hear inspiring stories of individuals turning their dreams into thriving businesses, discuss the impact of microloans on the local economy, and highlight the innovative ways that Opportunity International and IDH Microfinanceria are building a brighter future together.

Paul Fast, Founder & Partner, Fast + Epp, joins Rick Goossen for this week's podcast. This podcast episode explores groundbreaking design and creative innovation across the globe from Fast + Epp Structural Engineers. From the artistry behind the Olympic Games to the dynamic landscapes of design in China, Paul speaks about humility and outlines stories.

Daniel Whitehead, CEO, Sanctuary Mental Health Ministries, joins Rick Goossen for this week's podcast. Join us as we explore the intersection of faith, mental health, and thriving communities and churches. Daniel speaks about how Christian principles can guide us in addressing mental health challenges with compassion, fostering personal growth, and cultivating flourishing cultures in our churches, workplaces, and beyond.

Dale Lutz, Co-Founder, Safe Software, joins Rick Goossen for this week's podcast. In this episode, we explore how professional conferences serve as microcosms of life's most important lessons. From networking in coffee breaks to hearing from world renowned speakers, we'll dive into the wisdom gained from ELO conference experiences. Whether you're a conference veteran or newcomer, this episode reveals how these professional gatherings teach us about relationship building, organization management, and professional growth.

Jennifer Ménard-Shand, Founder & CEO of StaffShop, engages in a Q&A with Rick Goossen, Chairman of ELO Network, at the ELO Forum in Toronto.

Mitzi Machado, Executive Director of AGAPE, and Camilo Garcia, Vice President of Strategic Partnerships for Opportunity International Latin America, engage in a Q&A with Rick Goossen, Chairman of ELO Network, at the ELO Forum in Toronto.

Ron Haik, Wealth Advisor & Client Relationship Manager at Nicola Wealth, discusses "Economic Outlook: The Likely Trends & How To Be Ready" at the ELO Forum in Toronto.

Steve French, Founder of Lx Partners & Global Ambassador of Lifework Leadership, discusses "Never Waste A Crisis: Lessons from Challenging Times” at the ELO Forum in Toronto.

Dave Brereton, Executive Director of YFCI, engages in a Q&A with Rick Goossen, Chairman of ELO Network, at the ELO Forum in Toronto.

Andy Steiger, Founder & President of Apologetics Canada, discusses "Artificial Intelligence: What are the Facts & the Fiction?” at the ELO Forum in Toronto.

John Carbrey, Founder & Managing Director of FutureSight Ventures, speaks on “Artificial Intelligence: Is there A Gold Rush of Commercial Opportunities?” at the ELO Forum in Toronto.

Ron Haik, Wealth Advisor & Client Relationship Manager, Nicola Wealth, speaks on "Give More With Less: Leading Through Strategic Philanthropy" at the 2022 ELO Forum in Winnipeg.

Peter Hall, Chief Economist, econosphere inc., speaks on "Strength in Weakness: The Near-Term Global Economic Outlook" at the 2022 ELO Forum in Winnipeg.

Rick Goossen, Chair, ELO Network, conducts a Q&A with Promod Haque, Managing Partner, Norwest Venture Partners, at the 2022 ELO Forum in Toronto. They discuss Promod's "Faith and Business Journey: Lessons from Silicon Valley."

This podcast is an interview between Dr. Rick Goossen, Chairman, ELO Network, and Dr. Peter Chung, CEO & Chairman, Primacorp Ventures.

Don Campion, Co-Founder & President, Banyan Air Service, speaks on "Success is Great but Significance is Lasting" at the 2022 ELO Forum in Toronto.

Rick Goossen conducts a Q&A with Chris Spanjaard, Senior Vice President & COO, Purolator Operations, at the 2022 ELO Forum in Toronto. They discuss "Purolator's Big Moves: Planning & Investing Today for Tomorrow's Reality"

Georgette Zinaty, Executive Vice President, Corporate Class In, speaks on "Leadership, Diversity & Inclusion: Reflections on Building Your Team & Culture" at the 2022 ELO Forum in Toronto.

James Jelly, Founder, FaithTech, conducts a Q&A with Paul Burns, Former Managing Director, Twitter Canada, at the 2022 ELO Forum in Toronto. They discuss "What's Happening in the World of Tech and Why it Matters"

Hal Bagley, Principal, Elevate2Lead, speaks on "How to be Entrepreneurial in Business, NPOs, and Churches" at the 2022 ELO Forum in Winnipeg.

Dr. Rick Goossen conducts a Q&A with Mark Chipman, Executive Chairman of the Board, True North Sports + Entertainment and the Winnipeg Jets Hockey Club, and Steve Chipman, President & CEO, Birchwood Automotive Group, at the 2022 ELO Forum in Winnipeg. Rick, Mark, and Steve discuss "Jets, Cars, Family, Community & Values."

Dr. Rick Goossen conducts a Q&A with Bobby Gruenewald, Founder & CEO, YouVersion Bible App, at the 2022 ELO Forum in Vancouver. Rick and Bobby discuss "YouVersion Growth Story: Lessons from Launch to 500 Million Downloads."

Graham Carter, Co-Founder & Principal, Vertex Developments, speaks on "Who is Asking You the Tough Questions?" at the 2022 ELO Forum in Vancouver.

Doug Nix, Chairman, Stillwater Capital Corporation, speaks on "Key Ways to Build Value in Your Business" at the 2022 ELO Forum in Vancouver.

Ken Keis, President & CEO, CRG International Inc, speaks on "The Quest for Purpose: A Self-Discovery Process To Find It And Live It!" at the 2022 ELO Forum in Vancouver.

Dale Lutz, Co-CEO & Co-Founder, Safe Software, speaks on "The Future of Work: Lessons on Navigating the New Reality" at the ELO Forum in Vancouver.

Dr. Rick Goossen conducts a Q&A with Carissa Youssef, CEO, The Stattonrock Group, at the 2022 ELO Forum in Vancouver. Rick and Carissa discuss "Flourishing in Business: How Purpose-Driven Leadership Can Grow Our Faith and the Bottom Line."

ELO's Dr. Rick Goossen is interviewed by US Economist, author and journalist Jerry Bowyer. This is part II of a two-part conversation. Rick is one of the world’s leading experts on public speaking, both as a speaker himself and also as the host of the world’s leading conferences for Christian entrepreneurs. His new book, Public Speaking Laws of Success, shows leaders how they can put themselves in the 90th percentile of public speaking ability by paying attention to a few simple principles. Jerry hosted Rick on his new podcast "Business in the Kingdom" with Jerry Bowyer>> bit.ly/3vUsPBR Get the book>> bit.ly/3fRaP5L Learn more about the ELO Peer Advisory Group Network and apply today>>

ELO's Dr. Rick Goossen is interviewed by US Economist, author and journalist Jerry Bowyer. This is part I of a two-part conversation. Rick is one of the world’s leading experts on public speaking, both as a speaker himself and also as the host of the world’s leading conferences for Christian entrepreneurs. His new book, Public Speaking Laws of Success, shows leaders how they can put themselves in the 90th percentile of public speaking ability by paying attention to a few simple principles. Jerry hosted Rick on his new podcast "Business in the Kingdom" with Jerry Bowyer>> bit.ly/3vUsPBR Get the book>> bit.ly/3fRaP5L Learn more about the ELO Peer Advisory Group Network and apply today>>

Diane Craig speaks on the dynamics of women in leadership. The myths and stereotypes of gender, race, ethnicity, nationality, and generation. She discusses ways to help navigate difficult moments, combat workplace bias, deal with micro-aggressions and everyday slights rooted in bias. Diane highlights some practical tools and strategies are that allow women to participate fully in business leadership. This Q&A is facilitated by Dr. Rick Goossen, Chairman, Advisory Board, ELO Group and Strategic Counsel for Nicola Wealth. Learn more about the ELO Peer Advisory Group Network and apply today>>

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused people to rethink the core drivers of their lives. The foundations of wealth, job, financial security and health have been shaken. Will we sound like the Preacher in Ecclesiastes and talk about how all is vanity and meaninglessness? People ask themselves various questions. What is life about? What are my idols? Am I putting my faith in biblical, lasting values? The present situation is an opportunity to reflect on our enduring objectives. What can we learn? Simon has a unique and exceptional background in business. PEP is the largest local private equity firm in Australia and New Zealand. Funds managed by PEP have made more than 30 operating company investments, and more than 100 bolt-on acquisitions. PEP VI closed in June 2020 at the hard cap of A$2.5 billion. PEP has also raised a Secure Assets Fund of A$360 million to invest in infrastructure-like assets with contracted base cashflows where it can apply its formula of value addition to deliver mid-teen returns. The firm…

Glenn Cooke is the CEO of the Cooke Aquaculture Inc. and the Cooke Inc. family of companies. From humble beginnings in rural, coastal New Brunswick, Glenn and his family and employees have built Cooke Inc. into the world’s largest private, family-owned salmon producer and seafood company. How to lead in unique and challenging times? A big challenge for leaders is how to make economic adjustments, pivot, and to rethink existing practices. Is there a “new normal” or is it a matter of starting over again? Glenn Cooke started small and now leads a large organization. He will discuss his faith and entrepreneurial journey and offer insights on rethinking leadership in the midst of an ongoing COVID-9 pandemic. This Q&A is facilitated by Dr. Rick Goossen, Chairman, Advisory Board, ELO Group and Strategic Counsel for Nicola Wealth. Learn more about the ELO Peer Advisory Group Network and apply today>>

Peter Legge interviews Rick Goossen on his upcoming book, Public Speaking Laws of Success. This interview focuses on some key laws that are critical to your success as a public speaker and communicator, whether online or in person. The book includes stimulating stories that highlight the habits and secrets of successful speakers. Peter Legge is an accomplished entrepreneur, speaker and author. Toastmasters International voted Peter “Golden Gavel Award Winner” and “Top Speaker in North America” and both the National Speakers Association and the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers have inducted him into the Speakers Hall of Fame. He is also a member of the prestigious Speakers Roundtable, an invitation-only society comprising 20 of North America’s top professional speakers. He is a bestselling author of 23 books and is Chairman & CEO of the largest, independently owned media publishing company in Western Canada – Canada Wide Media Limited. Visit our website to learn how you can get a copy of the…

Graham Carter, principal and co-founder of Vertex Developments & Maven Consulting shares his faith and entrepreneurial journey. In particular, the value of peer relationships and getting valued input on business and spiritual/ethical matters. Graham describes the value of peer advisory groups and how to avoid the default action of isolation and independent decision-making. Entrepreneurs and leaders often don’t get the input they could benefit from. This Q&A is facilitated by Dr. Rick Goossen, Chairman, Advisory Board, ELO Group and Strategic Counsel for Nicola Wealth. Learn more about the ELO Peer Advisory Group Network and apply today>>

Phil Vischer, Founder, Big Idea Productions & President, Jellyfish Labs LLC, Chicago, speaks on “Me, Myself & Bob: Lessons Learned from the Rise & Fall of a Big Idea”. This presentation occurred at the ELO Forum in Vancouver, BC on November 7th, 2018 Sign-up for the Entrepreneurial Leaders Monthly Newsletter HERE>>

Jerry Bowyer, US economist and author, speaks about "Jesus on Economics & Entrepreneurship" and his book The Maker Versus the Takers: What Jesus Really Said About Social Justice and Economics in a Q&A facilitated by Dr. Rick Goossen, Chairman, Advisory Board, ELO Group and Strategic Counsel for Nicola Wealth. Sign-up for the Entrepreneurial Leaders Monthly Newsletter here to learn about upcoming webinars and events>> This conversation occurred in an ELO webinar, on January 20th, 2021

So-Young Kang, Founder & CEO of Gnowbe and Founding Chairman of Awaken Group, speaks on "Lessons on Innovation in the Digital Economy" in a Q&A facilitated by Dr. Rick Goossen, Chairman, Advisory Board, ELO Group and Strategic Counsel for Nicola Wealth. Sign-up for the Entrepreneurial Leaders Monthly Newsletter here to learn about upcoming webinars and events>> This conversation occurred in an ELO webinar, on August 12th, 2020

Systemic racism, recently highlighted in police brutality in the case of George Floyd in Minnesota, has ignited massive protests in the US, Canada and around the world. Citizens are angered by chronic issues, anchored in racial divides, which are not resolved—and meanwhile, injustice continues. These events have caused deep soul-searching and a desire to create effective and long-lasting change. In these circumstances, how can Christians and their institutions proactively be difference-makers? How to not only respond but to lead? How have churches and Christians contributed to or supported systemic racism? Dr. Richard (Rick) J. Goossen, Chairman, ELO Group, facilitates a live Q&A with N.T. (“Tom”) Wright and an international audience. This conversation occurred in an ELO Webinar hosted on June 24th, 2020. N.T. (“Tom”) Wright is generally regarded as one of the world’s leading biblical scholars. N.T. Wright recently joined Wycliffe Hall as a Senior Research Fellow. He is a world authority on the apostle Paul…

Jeff Williams, Founder & President of Absolute Results, speaks on "Rethinking your 'Why?' in a Q&A facilitated by Dr. Rick Goossen, Chairman, Advisory Board, ELO Group and Strategic Counsel for Nicola Wealth Sign-up for the Entrepreneurial Leaders Monthly Newsletter here to learn about upcoming webinars and events>> Jeff has built a sales training business that is active in 19 countries and 5 continents, working with the larger automobile manufacturers and dealers in the world. He is an active philanthropist, having worked with John Maxwell to set up the John Maxwell Leadership Foundation Canada and to work on international humanitarian projects. Jeff’s life and business are rooted in Christian principles which he tries to reflect in all his endeavours, pursuing his calling with passion. We are coming out of a season of crisis. This gives entrepreneurial leaders a unique opportunity to re-set their businesses. Some business leaders are re-hiring to a new standard, leaning out operations and reducing or…

Lord Robert Edmiston, Founder, IM Group speaks on His Faith & Entrepreneurial Journey. This presentation occurred at the ELO Forum in Vancouver, BC on November 4th, 2015 Sign-up for the Entrepreneurial Leaders Monthly Newsletter HERE>>

ELO hosts Rob Wildeboer for a Webinar and Q&A with Dr. Rick Goossen on May 20th, 2020. Rob Wildeboer is the Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of Martinrea International Inc., a global auto parts supplier, specializing in automotive fluid systems and metal forming products. Martinrea has over 17,000 employees at 38 divisions in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Europe and China and generates almost $4 billion in revenue. View the video recording of this conversation here>> Rob Wildeboer recently had to lay off 13,000 of his 17,000 employees at Martinrea. He is dealing with the unprecedented economic challenges of the current COVID-19 pandemic. He is wrestling with how to adjust resources and cash flow and how to survive until the light at the end of the tunnel. Rob shares his strategy for dealing with this crisis, how to assess information, who to rely on and how to plan as well as possible. He talks about lessons he’s learning and how to handle challenges. He talks about how Christian marketplace…

We are living through a unique, era-defining period. Many of our old certainties have gone, whatever our view of the world and whatever our beliefs. How do we begin to think it through and cope with it? In his recently-released short yet profound book, Oxford mathematics professor John Lennox examines the coronavirus in light of various belief systems and shows how the Christian worldview not only helps us to make sense of it but also offers us a sure and certain hope to cling to. More on why John Lennox wrote the book: "This book consists of my reflections on what we are experiencing right now. I started writing it a week ago, and things have changed quickly since then and no doubt will do again...I would invite you, the reader, to view the book like this: we are sitting in a coffee shop (if only we could!) and you have asked me the question on the book cover. I put down my coffee cup and attempt to give you an honest answer. What follows is what I would try to say in order to convey some comfort, support…

The world is in the midst of a COVID-19 / Corona Virus pandemic creating unprecedented economic and social upheaval. In the midst of this situation, what is a Christian response and witness? How to not only respond but to lead? In particular, Christian marketplace leaders are severely impacted in terms of dealing with employees, customers and suppliers. Cash flow has been almost instantly halted. How do business leaders keep functioning? Christian leaders, like others, are focused on surviving the present realities. In these circumstances, how can Christians proactively be difference-makers? Can they be a voice of calm and insight and a force for tangible action? Dr. Richard (Rick) J. Goossen, Chairman, ELO Group, facilitates a live Q&A with N.T. (“Tom”) Wright and an international audience. The focus of each ELO Webinar is to ask the most pertinent questions for the particular guest and to encourage questions from our global audience. N.T. (“Tom”) Wright is generally regarded as one of the world’s leading…