Month: November 2024

let’s talk about getting in shape in Victoria. I mean, Victoria’s already such an active city, right? You’ve got the ocean, the mountains, and a million parks. It’s the kind of place that just screams, “Hey, go outside and do something!” But, like, let’s be real—actually starting or sticking to a fitness routine? That’s a whole other thing. And sometimes, you just need a little help. That’s where someone like Lindsey Welgush comes in.

If you haven’t heard of Lindsey, she’s a personal trainer based in Victoria, and she is seriously amazing at what she does. Her whole thing isn’t just about making you lift weights or run a million miles. It’s about helping you feel strong and confident in your own body, no matter where you’re starting from.

Now, one of the things I love about Lindsey’s approach is how she really tailors everything to the individual. It’s not this one-size-fits-all, “Here’s a meal plan, here’s a workout, see ya later” kind of vibe. It’s personalized. Whether you’re just starting out, trying to come back from an injury, or looking to level up your fitness game, she meets you where you’re at. That’s huge because, let’s be honest, everyone’s journey looks different, right?

And Victoria is honestly the perfect backdrop for getting into shape. You’ve got the Galloping Goose Trail if you’re into running or biking. Beacon Hill Park is a classic spot for outdoor workouts or just a walk to clear your head. And, of course, you can’t forget about the waterfront. That stretch along Dallas Road? Ugh, it’s so good. You’ve got the fresh air, the views—it almost makes working out feel less like work. Almost.

But here’s the thing: even with all those options, it can be hard to know where to start. Or maybe you’ve started, but then life gets in the way, and suddenly you’ve fallen off track. That’s why someone like Lindsey can make such a difference. She’s not just there to tell you what to do; she’s there to support you through the ups and downs, help you stay consistent, and keep you accountable.

Another thing that stands out about Lindsey is that she focuses a lot on mindset. Fitness isn’t just physical—it’s mental. It’s about building habits, staying motivated, and dealing with that little voice in your head that says, “Ugh, skip it today.” We all have that voice, don’t we? Lindsey helps you push past that in a way that feels doable, not overwhelming.

Oh, and she’s not just about the gym, either. She’s really into functional fitness, which is basically training your body for the activities you actually do in real life. Like, if you’re a parent, she’ll help you build the strength to keep up with your kids. If you’re into hiking, she can help you get those legs and lungs ready to tackle something like Mount Finlayson without dying halfway up.

And let’s talk about her coaching style for a second because it’s so refreshing. You know how some trainers can be… intense? Like, drill sergeant mode? Yeah, that’s not Lindsey. She’s supportive, approachable, and genuinely wants to see you succeed. From everything I’ve heard, people walk away from her sessions feeling empowered, not intimidated.

Oh, and if you’re worried about not having time, she’s got you covered there, too. Lindsey offers flexible options that fit into your schedule, whether you prefer in-person sessions or online coaching. So, no excuses, right?

One more thing I really appreciate is how Lindsey keeps things realistic. She’s not going to tell you to give up all your favorite foods or spend two hours a day at the gym. It’s about balance. Like, yes, take care of your health, but also enjoy your life. That’s the kind of energy we all need more of.

So, if you’re in Victoria and you’re thinking, “You know what, it’s time to take my health seriously,” definitely check out Lindsey Welgush. Even if you’re just curious, it’s worth taking a look. She’s got a great vibe, and it might be exactly the push you need to get started.

And really, there’s no better time than now. Whether you’re walking along the seawall, hiking up a local trail, or hitting the gym, Victoria is full of ways to stay active. With someone like Lindsey in your corner, you’ve got all the tools you need to make it happen.

The West Coast has long been a breeding ground for innovative business ideas and groundbreaking ventures. From Silicon Valley tech giants to Vancouver’s thriving startup ecosystem, this region consistently pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in entrepreneurship. Let’s dive into the top trends shaping the future of business on the West Coast.

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1. Sustainability as a Core Value

Entrepreneurs are weaving sustainability into the very fabric of their business models. From zero-waste refilleries in Portland to eco-friendly manufacturing in Los Angeles, the focus is on creating products and services that minimize environmental impact. Consumers are increasingly expecting brands to take a stand on climate issues, and West Coast businesses are leading the way.

Case in point: Vancouver’s Nada Grocery, a package-free grocery store, shows how sustainability can be both a selling point and a successful business strategy.

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2. Decentralized Workforces

Remote work is no longer a pandemic-era experiment—it’s a way of life. West Coast startups are embracing fully distributed teams, tapping into talent pools from all over the world while still maintaining their innovative cultures. Platforms like GitLab, headquartered in San Francisco, have pioneered this model and set a strong example for other businesses to follow.

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3. The Rise of Social Impact Startups

Social entrepreneurship is exploding. Founders are building businesses that not only turn a profit but also address pressing social issues like housing affordability, mental health, and diversity in tech. Take Seattle’s Plymouth Housing, which uses innovative financial models to develop housing solutions for the city’s most vulnerable populations.

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4. AI and Automation Everywhere

Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries, from retail to healthcare. West Coast entrepreneurs are integrating AI into everyday operations to streamline processes, enhance customer experiences, and drive efficiencies. Companies like OpenAI, based in San Francisco, are at the forefront of these advancements, offering tools that small businesses can adopt to stay competitive.

For a deeper dive into how AI is impacting small businesses, check out this article from Entrepreneur.

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5. Health and Wellness Boom

The West Coast lifestyle has always prioritized health, but now it’s becoming big business. From kombucha breweries to mental health apps, entrepreneurs are capitalizing on the growing demand for wellness products and services. Look at Calm, the meditation app that started in San Francisco and has become a global phenomenon.

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6. Localized, Tech-Enabled Retail

Retail isn’t dead—it’s evolving. West Coast businesses are finding success by blending technology with hyper-localized experiences. Think pop-up shops with QR codes for instant checkout or augmented reality apps that let you visualize products in your home. Retailers are redefining how people shop, creating experiences that are both innovative and deeply personal.

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7. Cross-Border Collaboration

The proximity between major hubs like Vancouver, Seattle, and San Francisco has fueled a culture of collaboration. West Coast entrepreneurs often pool resources, share talent, and exchange ideas, creating a regional ecosystem that thrives on connectivity. The Cascadia Innovation Corridor, for example, promotes partnerships between businesses and governments across this region, accelerating growth for all involved.

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These trends highlight why the West Coast continues to be a powerhouse of entrepreneurship. By staying ahead of the curve, embracing change, and solving real-world problems, the region’s entrepreneurs are shaping the future of business—not just here, but globally. Whether you’re an aspiring founder or a seasoned entrepreneur, there’s plenty to learn from the West Coast’s vibrant startup scene.

today, I want to talk about something that doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves—small businesses. They’re the heart of every community, but they’re also the backbone of innovation. And I’ve got seven incredible small businesses from the West Coast, with a bit of a focus on Canada, that are absolutely punching above their weight. These businesses are making a real impact, whether it’s in their industry, their community, or even globally. Let’s dive in.

First up, there’s this bakery in Victoria, BC, called Salt + Honey. Now, I know—bakeries might not seem like the most groundbreaking thing. But Salt + Honey has this way of turning local ingredients into something that feels both nostalgic and completely new. They’ve got this cinnamon bun—brioche dough, local honey glaze, a touch of sea salt—it’s unreal. But what really sets them apart is how they’ve become a hub for the community. They partner with local farmers for their ingredients, they hire folks from employment programs for people facing barriers, and they’ve even started a “pay-it-forward” system. You can literally buy someone else’s breakfast, no strings attached. It’s small things like that, right? But they add up.

Okay, moving up the coast to Vancouver, there’s Revive Refillery. This is one of those zero-waste shops, but they’re doing it differently. They’ve created this whole network of partnerships with local brands to offer bulk products that are actually high quality. You go in, bring your jars, and refill anything from shampoo to olive oil. But here’s the kicker—they also do mobile refills. They’ll drive out to your house, weigh your containers, and fill them right there. No waste, no hassle. I mean, it’s such a West Coast idea, but it’s so practical that you wonder why it’s not everywhere yet.

Now, let’s talk about a little company out of Seattle—Tiny Home Solutions. Yes, the tiny house movement has been around for a while, but these folks are bringing it to the masses. They specialize in backyard units that work as rentals, guest houses, or even home offices. What’s cool is how they work with homeowners to navigate zoning laws, permits, and even financing. They’re turning what feels like a headache into a turnkey process. And in places where housing is tight—and expensive—this kind of creativity makes a huge difference.

Heading inland a bit to Kelowna, BC, we’ve got Okanagan Craft Spirits. Now, craft distilleries aren’t new, but what makes these guys stand out is their commitment to sustainability. They source almost everything from within a hundred kilometers of their distillery, and they’ve found ways to reuse their waste. Leftover grains? They go to local farmers for feed. Water from the distillation process? Recycled into their cooling systems. It’s clever, right? And their gin? Oh man, it tastes like a walk through an alpine forest. If you’re in the area, their tasting room is an experience in itself.

Alright, number five. This one’s a little different. It’s a tech company out of Portland called GreenMetrics. They’ve developed software that helps businesses measure—and reduce—their carbon footprint. It’s all about making sustainability accessible for companies that maybe don’t have a dedicated team for this kind of thing. They’ve got clients ranging from small cafes to regional airlines. And what’s brilliant is that they don’t just measure; they provide actionable recommendations. It’s like having a sustainability coach in your back pocket.

Next up, we’re back in Vancouver with Thread & Timber. This is a clothing brand, but they’re all about slow fashion. They make timeless, durable pieces using ethical production practices. What I love about them is their transparency. They’ll tell you exactly where the fabric comes from, who made it, and why it costs what it costs. They’ve got this jacket called the “Coastal Anorak” that’s water-resistant, windproof, and somehow stylish enough to wear in the city. It’s practical, it’s intentional, and it’s the kind of business that makes you rethink how you shop.

And last but definitely not least, there’s Raincoast Harvest, based on Vancouver Island. They’re a foraging company. Yeah, like mushrooms, berries, wild greens—the kind of stuff you’d see in a high-end restaurant. But what they’ve done is build this model where they work with chefs, grocers, and even online stores to make wild food more accessible. They’re super focused on sustainability, making sure they’re not overharvesting or damaging ecosystems. And they’ve started offering workshops to teach people how to forage responsibly. It’s such a niche thing, but they’re turning it into something scalable.

So, there you have it. Seven small businesses, each doing something unique, and all of them making a bigger impact than you’d expect. What I love about stories like these is that they remind you how much innovation and change can start on a local level. It’s not always about being the biggest company or having the flashiest idea. Sometimes, it’s just about doing one thing really well—and caring about the people and the places around you.

If you’re ever in these areas, check them out. Even better, think about how businesses like these inspire change in your own community. What’s the saying? Think global, act local? Yeah, it’s a cliché, but for a reason.