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The MBA Way

The MBA Way

By: Erik Solbakken BA CA CPA
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About this listen

The MBA Way Podcast brings resources and advice to Canadian business
owners with a splash of entertainment. We interview thought leaders, business advisors and other successful business owners to help grow your business AND your life.

Got to www.mbacpa.ca to find out more about how MBA Chartered Professional Accountants can help you with your accounting, tax and advisory needs.

© 2025 The MBA Way
Economics Leadership Management & Leadership
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Episodes
  • EP 28: Minimizing Taxes and Maximizing Entrepreneurial Freedom with Trevor Parry
    Apr 29 2025

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    ​​Trevor Parry is a lawyer, father, and unapologetic patriot who helps entrepreneurs and professionals minimize taxes and navigate financial complexity. Grounded in a strong belief in limiting government overreach, Trevor provides strategic guidance and select financial solutions that empower clients to grow, protect, and preserve their wealth.

    He brings an objective, battlefield-level perspective to each situation—working alongside existing teams to answer key questions: What can I do? What can’t I do? What’s the risk? With clarity and precision, he helps clients face complexity head-on.

    Trevor also speaks openly about the troubling direction of Canada’s political landscape. Drawing from the allegory of Leviathan, he warns of increasing state control disguised as security—something he believes is pushing businesses and families to leave Canada, many never to return.

    At the core of Trevor’s work is a belief that we must shift the narrative: it’s time to celebrate success, embrace growth, and champion those who create value in the world.

    What’s Inside:

    • The allegory of Leviathan
    • Minimizing taxes and maximizing entrepreneurial freedom
    • A look at the political landscape in Canada and its effects on entrepreneurs

    Mentioned In This Episode:

    Trevor Parry
    parryt@rogers.com
    MBA CPA

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    38 mins
  • EP 27: Increase Revenue & Customer Loyalty With Gift Cards with Larry Rubin
    Apr 15 2025

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    Larry Rubin, known as "The Gift Card Guy," saw a market being overlooked—small, independent businesses lacked the tools and guidance to create effective gift and loyalty programs. That’s why he founded Swipe It, a company dedicated to helping mom-and-pop shops implement customized gift card solutions with as few as 100 cards to start.

    Originally launched as an off-campus meal plan card, Swipe It evolved into a powerful technology platform that allows restaurants and retailers to create their own branded gift cards. Business owners benefit in multiple ways—gift cards drive upfront revenue, and since nearly 30% of them go unredeemed, they create pure profit. Even better, when customers do redeem them, 61% spend more than the card’s value—an average of $31.75 extra.

    Swipe It’s system also simplifies tracking, helping businesses monitor sold, redeemed, donated, and promotional gift cards with ease. Additionally, local Chamber of Commerce gift card programs, supported by Swipe It, boost small businesses by keeping spending within the community.

    The key takeaway? A gift card isn’t just a convenience—it’s a powerful business tool.

    Be sure to listen to the end for Larry’s awesome tip for a business card that not only leaves a lasting impression but also drives revenue.

    What’s Inside:

    • The creation of gift cards for small merchants.
    • The power of a gift card program for small businesses
    • A one-stop shop for creation, sale, and tracking for your gift card needs.

    Mentioned In This Episode:
    Larry Rubin on LinkedIn
    SwipeIt
    MBA CPA

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    35 mins
  • EP 26: Treating People Not Patients with Michael Sonick
    Apr 1 2025

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    “The most important part of my practice is how I relate to the people I serve.” Guest, Dr. Michael Sonick, is not only a globally recognized expert in dental implantology and periodontology—he’s also the author of Treating People, Not Patients. This groundbreaking book isn’t just for dental or medical professionals; it’s for anyone in the service industry who wants to elevate the way they connect with others.

    Dr. Sonick emphasizes a truth often overlooked: social and interpersonal skills are critical to healing and success. “When people feel better, they heal better,” he explains. It’s not about rushing to serve more people faster—it’s about delivering quality care with genuine connection and building lifelong relationships, not just transactions.

    Too often, care is limited by fear-based barriers—lack of access to doctors, impersonal service, or rigid systems. Dr. Sonick believes that true professionals work to break down these walls by embracing authenticity and connection. It’s not about having all the answers, but about being real, approachable, and willing to meet people where they are. By creating understanding and trust, service providers can bring clients into their world and make them feel valued, supported, and informed.

    So, how do you build a standout, people-first business? Dr. Sonick walks through his proven system—from the power of referrals to the impression your website and phone calls make, down to the smallest details of your office environment.

    Pro tips? Clean your office every day. Have clean, well-presented staff in matching uniforms. Remove potential issues before they arise—because the first impression sets the tone, and you are the habits you display.


    What’s Inside:

    • The power of people skills.
    • Refining the details that build a first impression.
    • The importance of connection and vulnerability.

    Mentioned In This Episode:

    Michael Sonick
    mike@michaelsonick.com
    Michael Sonick on Instagram @drmsonick
    Michael Sonick on Facebook
    Michael Sonick on LinkedIn
    MBA CPA

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    37 mins

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In the spirit of reconciliation, Audible acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.