Podcast

Firing on All Syllables

Invaluable tips from the world's most influential leaders. Hosted by Gary Kalaci.
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Latest Episodes

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    Resilience, a tool to face challenge – Zabeen Hirji – Founder, Purposeful Third Act | Former CHRO, RBC – Ep50

    Leadership is not about where you sit. It’s about how you show up.
    In our latest episode of Firing On All Syllables, Gary Kalaci speaks with Zabeen Hirji about what it takes to create opportunity inside organizations, especially when influence doesn’t come from title alone.

    From advancing values that leaders dismissed as “soft” to earning sponsorship and driving impact in the face of resistance, Zabeen reflects on how executives can move initiatives forward and build alignment across organizations.

    Recently appointed to the Order of Ontario and named Trent University’s 13th Chancellor, Zabeen brings a rare blend of conviction, humility, and purpose to the conversation.

    39 min listen

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    Leadership, judgment, and restraint at the side of Nelson Mandela with Etienne van Eck – Ep49

    In this episode of Firing On All Syllables, Gary Kalaci speaks with Etienne van Eck, who served as a close protection officer to Nelson Mandela during South Africa’s transition from apartheid to democracy.

    Drawing on firsthand experience during one of the most consequential periods in modern leadership, Etienne reflects on judgment under pressure, the discipline of restraint when power is absolute, and how fragile public trust truly is when every decision is visible.

    The conversation connects Mandela’s example to the realities leaders face today: moral complexity, heightened scrutiny, and the responsibility that comes with leadership in uncertain times.

    43 min listen

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    Global Deals and the Modern Legal Executive with Christelle Gedeon – Chief Legal Officer & Corporate Secretary – Ep48

    In the latest episode of Firing On All Syllables, Christelle Gedeon (Chief Legal Officer & Corporate Secretary, Canopy Growth Corporation) joins Gary Kalaci to discuss her journey from the lab to the boardroom—and how multilingual roots, global dealmaking, and cross-functional leadership shaped her approach to legal and regulatory strategy.

    Christelle shares insights on advising governments, managing cross-border M&A across 14+ jurisdictions, navigating policy vs. enforcement regulators, and the growing role of A.I. in modern legal teams.

    37 min listen

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    How Resilience Impacts Non-Profit Leadership with Miyo Yamashita – President & CEO, The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation – Ep47

    In this engaging conversation, Miyo Yamashita shares her unique background, career journey, and the impactful work she leads at the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation.

    She discusses the advancements in cancer research, the importance of community support, and the challenges faced in the non-profit sector.

    Miyo emphasizes the need for resilience, team buy-in, and offers valuable advice for business leaders. The discussion concludes with rapid-fire questions that reveal Miyo's personal insights and philosophies.

    33 min listen

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