In this inspiring episode, hosts Mike Maddock and John Tobin talk with Ken Sim — entrepreneur, founder of Nurse Next Door, and Mayor of Vancouver. Ken shares how his entrepreneurial mindset shaped his approach to public service and why core values like kindness, compassion, and optimism guide every big decision.
From growing a healthcare company with 16,000 employees to running one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Ken explains how to build a team you deserve, the importance of firing clients (and even half your staff) to protect values, and the lessons he’s learned navigating politics and human nature.
We explore servant leadership, sustaining optimism in difficult roles, fostering the next generation, and what it really means to leave a legacy beyond your term.
A must-listen for anyone curious about entrepreneurship, civic leadership, or leading with heart.

About the hosts:
Mike Maddock is the founder of Flourish Advisory Boards, a public speaker, and a serial entrepreneur known for helping leaders transform big ideas into reality.
John Tobin is the co-founder and president of Slalom Consulting, a global consulting firm helping organizations tackle their most ambitious projects and build a culture of innovation and trust.

Timestamps:
00:00 — Introduction to Ken Sim
02:00 — Growing up in Vancouver and early challenges
05:00 — From chartered accountant to entrepreneur
09:00 — Founding Nurse Next Door and defining core values
13:00 — Firing clients and protecting culture
17:00 — Transitioning into politics: why Ken ran for mayor
22:00 — Leading Vancouver and tackling big challenges
27:00 — Balancing quick start energy with building consensus
32:00 — Bringing core business values into government
38:00 — Addressing homelessness, Chinatown’s future, and city unity
45:00 — Sustaining optimism and self-care as a leader
52:00 — Ken’s five big goals for his time as mayor
58:00 — Advice for entrepreneurs entering politics
1:02:00 — Raising kids and showing them purpose in service
1:06:00 — Closing reflections and final gratitude

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