Steve McVicker is the Chief Brand Officer and Co-Founder of Matt & Steve’s, the proudly Canadian company behind The Extreme Bean and one of the most recognizable names in the Caesar and pickle category. What began as a bold idea between two best friends has grown into an international brand built on fun, flavour, authenticity, and emotional connection.

Steve is the driving force behind the brand’s voice, personality, and cultural impact. He believes great brands aren’t just marketed — they’re lived. From storytelling and partnerships to consumer engagement and community-building, Steve ensures Matt & Steve’s doesn’t just stand out on shelves, but resonates with people in real life.

Driven by curiosity, discipline, and a relentless work ethic, Steve continues to compete - and win - against much larger players by staying authentic and building experiences people don’t just see, but feel.

Guest:

• Steve McVicker - Matt & Steve’s: Instagram | Website

Host:

• Mark Kondrat: Instagram | LinkedIn

CREATE - The Podcast: Instagram | TikTok | Website

Andrew Gass is a chef with more than 35 years of experience around the globe.

He’s worked everywhere from Walt Disney World Resorts to elite international hockey tournaments - earning two gold medals as Team Canada’s chef at the World Junior Championships in Sweden and the Czech Republic.

A graduate of the Olds College Brew Master program (with distinction) - Andrew is now the co-owner of Vaycay Brew Co, combining his culinary and brewing passions.

Today, we’re going to talk about personal growth and what it really takes to build excellence over decades.

Guest:

• Andrew Gass: Instagram
• VayCay Brew Co: Instagram

Host:

• Mark Kondrat: Instagram | LinkedIn

CREATE - The Podcast: Instagram | TikTok | Website

Dillon Stecyk, COO of The Apres Collective, is a creative entrepreneur and one of the driving forces behind the Aroabora Music Festival in Banff - a unique, mountain-set celebration that blends music, nature, and human connection.

With a background rooted in events, culture, and collaboration, Dillon has helped shape Aroabora into an experience that brings people together and reminds them what music feels like when it’s intentional and intimate. Dillon brings a refreshingly honest take on building creative projects with friends, navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, and staying grounded while building something meaningful.

In this conversation, Dillon shares the behind-the-scenes realities of festival creation and why community - not scale - is the real measure of success.

Guest:

• Dillon Stecyk - COO of ABF & Apres Collective: Instagram | LinkedIn
• ABF: Instagram | Website
• Aroabora Music Festival: Instagram | Website

Host:

• Mark Kondrat: Instagram | LinkedIn

CREATE - The Podcast: Instagram | TikTok | Website