One of the things I love most about what we do is partnering with podcasters who are masters of their niche. Our newest client, David Kincade, just launched his brand-new show, Winning the Public Purse, and the first full episode is now available to tune into!
David is Canada’s leading grant writing expert and the author of Golden Grant Rules. He has helped clients secure over $10M in grants, while his students have won over $61M more. If you’ve ever tried to decode “governmentese” or navigate the complex world of public funding, David is the one who pulls back the curtain.
On a personal note, this one is extra special: David and I actually graduated high school together in Saint John, New Brunswick!
Having worked in program and grant delivery for both the provincial and federal governments in my previous careers, I know firsthand how vital this information is. This show isn’t just for non-profits; for-profit business owners and high-growth startups looking to scale will get massive value from David’s expertise.
In his first full episode, David sits down with Mona Pinder, Executive Director of the Alberta Hospitality Association. They dive into the realities of running a restaurant in today’s economy. They talk tight margins, rising costs, youth employment challenges, navigating government regulations and so much more.
I got a lot from this episode, and it gave me even more appreciation for the entrepreneurs who make up the hospitality industry, and the groups and individuals who are doing big things to support them.
Here are some key takeaways you’ll get by listening:
The State of the Industry: Nearly 44% of Canadian restaurant operators are losing money or breaking even (compared to 12% before the pandemic). Restaurant prices haven’t kept up with inflation, and owners are absorbing costs to survive.
Youth Employment & The WIL Grant: Youth unemployment hit over 14% in mid-2025, yet restaurants struggle to find staff. The WIL (Work Integrated Learning) grant provides $5,000 to Alberta restaurants to hire post-secondary students. The Alberta Hospitality Association has distributed nearly 200 grants to 144 employers across the province.
Mona’s Advice for Job Seekers: “Go into a restaurant with your resume during quiet hours, shake someone’s hand, and look them in the eye. They’re going to hire you.”
Technology & Advocacy: Third-party delivery apps take 15-30% commission, which can lose restaurants A LOT of money. Mona’s tip? Order directly from the restaurant’s website. Her role is to educate government on the realities of the industry: “We want governments at all levels to think like a small business owner.”
Why This Episode Matters
David’s podcast, and the work he does each day, is filling a critical gap. Public funding is complex, and most people don’t know where to start. By featuring guests like Mona, David is showing how grants and government programs can make a real difference, if you know how to access them.
P.s. Don’t forget that the next class of David’s Advanced Grant Writing Course begins online April 15, 2026, and you can learn more and register here! https://albertabusinessgrants.ca/grant-writing
Listen Now
You can check out Winning the Public Purse now on your favourite podcast app! Here are the links:
Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/winning-the-public-purse-with-david-kincade/id1887812050
Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/show/0veFctkUSpaiNm9uWeM7Dg
As a new podcaster myself, I know how much it means to get a heartfelt rating and review. I’m sure it would mean the world to David too if you could leave a rating and review after listening, as it would help his message and the insights he and his guests will be sharing get to even more people who could benefit!
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Want to launch your own podcast?
If you’re an expert in your field, like David Kincade is, and you too want to share your knowledge through podcasting, let’s talk. You can book a no-obligation call with me at the link below. Let’s get your show live, and your message out to the world!