Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Dr. Peter Legge, CEO of Canada Wide Media, located in Burnaby, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I have two businesses. The first one is ownership of Canada Wide Media Limited, the largest independently owned magazine/media company in Western Canada and publisher of iconic titles such as BCBusiness Magazine, Vancouver Magazine, Western Living and TV Week, and digital magazine, BCLiving and it all started with our first magazine, TV Week Magazine which has been the backbone of our company for almost 50 years. It's still the most profitable magazine of all, with its page circulation. We have an impeccable reputation for doing everything we say we are going to do, with no exceptions. The second one is Peter Legge Management which owns Canada Wide Media Limited and manages my professional speaking business and book publication and distribution, which has been ongoing for almost 50 years.
For Canada Wide Media, from an advertising perspective, businesses that are looking to reach customers and improve awareness and marketing initiatives and readers are our customers. For Peter Legge Management, we have a very diverse group of clients, from schools, conferences, and associations to companies that are basically looking to energize and motivate their staff and/or association.
Tell us about yourself
I'm one of the fortunate people who went into the media business directly out of high school. I have several honorary doctorate degrees and am honored to have spoken on 6 continents to a wide range of audiences.
The first magazine I purchased was Al Davidson's This Week, which I converted to TV Week. This has launched my publication business. I just love what I do, I love the people I work with and meet, and I learn something new every day.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I have been in business for 50 years, and I've never been sued or held liable, we have weathered all the storms, and the company continues to have an impeccable reputation. I would think it's having the respect of our advertisers and readers. More so, people tell me that I have made an impact in the community, served the community, and have made a positive influence on the people who work for and with me in the business.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Keeping the business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
If you want to run a business and be in business, you've got to be committed for the long haul because there will be times when recessions hit. There'll be times when you get to keep on top of the finances almost daily. Treat people with kindness and respect, and try and get all your staff to do what you want them to do because they're convinced it's the right thing and they want to do it.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://canadawide.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/peter.leggeobc.3
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drpeterlegge/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/_peterlegge
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterblegge/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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