Success in entrepreneurship isn’t just about what you earn, it’s about the impact you create.

Hosted by Jay-Ann Gilfoy, CEO of Meridian Credit Union, Small Business, Big Impact returns for Season 2 with inspiring stories from Ontario entrepreneurs proving that growth and giving back can go hand in hand. From community-focused restaurants to sustainability-driven startups, this season explores how purpose and profit thrive together.

Visit Meridian at: meridiancu.ca

Mental health and entrepreneurship go hand in hand, but prioritizing well-being as a business owner can be challenging.

In this episode, Jay-Ann sits down with Elora Gartley, founder of Nova Phoenix Counseling, to explore the realities of leading with purpose in the mental health space. From overcoming personal trauma to scaling a thriving business, Elora shares how she expanded her practice by opening multiple locations and building a dedicated team.

Key Takeaways:

• How Elora’s personal experiences with mental health shaped her path in social work and entrepreneurship.
• The challenges of launching a business while juggling multiple jobs and growing from a single office to a multi-location practice.
• The power of relational leadership in fostering a judgment-free, supportive workplace for both clients and staff.

Learn more about Nova Phoenix Counselling

Visit Meridian at: meridiancu.ca

The affordable housing crisis and skilled trades shortage are two of the biggest challenges facing communities today. But what if one solution could tackle both?

On this episode of Small Business Big Impact, host Jay-Ann Gilfoy sits down with Brandon Day, founder of Community Builders, a nonprofit social enterprise transforming lives in Ontario. Brandon shares his personal journey from struggling to find purpose to creating a business model that provides career opportunities while addressing the housing crisis.

Key Takeaways:

● Why investing in trades training is crucial for community development

● The benefits of a social enterprise model over traditional nonprofits

● The innovative ways Community Builders is tackling both housing and employment gaps

Learn more about Community Builders

Visit Meridian at: meridiancu.ca