In this episode, Bruce sits down with Alice Chung, founder and owner of Alive Health Centre, for a remarkable conversation about nearly five decades in the natural health industry. From a single 700-square-foot store to a network of 21 locations across British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario, Alice reflects on the decisions, values, and relationships that helped shape one of Canada's most respected health retail businesses.

Alice shares how strategic expansion, acquisitions, and a hands-on approach to leadership have guided Alive Health Centre's growth, while staying true to the principles that have defined the company from the beginning. She offers candid perspectives on navigating today's retail environment, maintaining strong supplier relationships, and building a business that prioritizes both customers and long-term sustainability.

The conversation also explores the culture behind Alive Health Centre's exceptional staff loyalty, with many team members remaining with the company for decades. Alice discusses the importance of trust, transparency, and investing in people, and why creating a supportive workplace has been central to the company's success.

Beyond business, Alice speaks passionately about giving back. From serving on the board of the Canadian Health Food Association to supporting organizations such as BC Children's Hospital and the VGH & UBC Hospital Foundation, she shares how community involvement and philanthropy have become an extension of her life's work. Her leadership in fundraising initiatives has helped raise millions of dollars for important causes, reflecting a deep belief that success carries with it a responsibility to make a meaningful difference.

In this episode of "In Conversation with," host Bruce Cole welcomes Davide Viola, President and CEO of the Health First Network, to discuss the organization's mission and its evolving role in the natural health industry. Davide describes Health First as a mission-driven, non-profit support organization dedicated to empowering nearly 120 independent retailers, representing approximately 170 retail locations across Canada. He shares the network's strategy of providing these local "wellness champions" with national-scale resources, including an exclusive product brand, a centralized distribution centre for better pricing, and comprehensive marketing services like digital and print flyers.

A central theme of the discussion is Davide's shift in terminology from a "network" to an "ecosystem," emphasizing the interconnectedness of retailers, vendor partners, and consumers. He explains that this ecosystem model fosters a sense of belonging and mutual support, where members share knowledge and resources to overcome industry challenges such as supply disruptions and increasing competition. Davide highlights that while the network provides tangible tools like data and flyers, its true "magic" lies in the community and camaraderie that protect independent stores and help them thrive in a rapidly changing market.

The conversation also touches on modern influences affecting the industry, including the rise of AI and the erosion of consumer trust. Davide views AI as a powerful tool for operational efficiency and value stream mapping, but stresses the importance of using it responsibly to maintain a human connection with consumers. To combat consumer confusion and "greenwashing," he advocates for transparency, clinical validation, and expert guidance at the retail shelf. Looking ahead, Davide envisions Health First continuing to strengthen its density and velocity, ensuring independent retailers maintain the "heart of a local neighbour" while wielding the "strength of a national retailer".

In this episode of In Conversation With, host Bruce Cole speaks with Stephanie Skalic, the Senior Merchandising Manager for Nature's Treasure at Fortinos Supermarket Limited. Stephanie shares her inspiring transition from a career in finance to becoming a leader in the natural health industry, a journey sparked by her own health challenges and the encouragement of a "guardian angel" manager. She details her progression within the Fortinos organization, from managing individual departments in various stores to overseeing operations and now leading the merchandising strategy for 24 locations across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton area.

Stephanie provides an inside look at the complex world of grocery retail merchandising, where she manages relationships with nearly 400 suppliers. She emphasizes that her core philosophy is centred on the customer’s health, ensuring that every product on the shelf has been rigorously vetted for its ingredient deck and labeling. Beyond mere transactions, Stephanie looks for true partnerships with vendors who are committed to educating consumers and maintaining the integrity of the natural health sector.

The discussion also explores current industry trends, including the shift toward functional beverages, sports nutrition, and sustainable production methods like fermenting and freeze-drying. Stephanie highlights how social media now drives many consumer trends, requiring retailers to be more reactive and agile in their execution. Closing with heartfelt advice, she encourages others to follow their passion and embrace the "twists and turns" of their own professional paths.