Beyond the Boardroom: What 110+ Episodes at the Petroleum Club Taught Me About the New Calgary
The "Why" Behind the Mic For over 75 years, the Calgary Petroleum Club (CPC) has been the epicenter of Canada’s energy capital. But as Calgary evolved from a "one-horse town" into a globally competitive tech and resource hub, the Club’s voice needed to evolve with it.
At Resilient New Media, we have the honor of producing the Back to Business Calgary Podcast, a show that has become the digital heartbeat of this historic institution. With over 117 episodes and counting, we don’t just record audio; we document the modernization of a legacy.
Breaking the "Side-Door" Barrier
The CPC’s history is a mirror of Calgary’s own growth. It is a journey defined by the women who moved from being excluded to being the architects of the Club’s future.
1989: The year the Club welcomed its first female member.
2007: Bonnie DuPont made history as the first female president.
Today: The Club is led by Toni-Marie Ion-Brown, the first female General Manager in the CPC’s history. Having started at the Club in 1990, her leadership is a testament to loyalty, integrity, and the "White Hat" hospitality Calgary is famous for.
Making Industry Icons Relatable
Our goal with Back to Business Calgary, under the executive production of Glenda Marr (AGM) and the hosting of Kim Hayden, is to make the "Titan of Industry" relatable.
When we film at the CPC Podcast Studio, we aren't just looking for business strategies; we are looking for the human story. Whether it’s interviewing Joel Cowley (CEO of the Calgary Stampede) about the future of community spirit, John Gorman (VP Halliburton Canada / Alaska ) about the Big Red experience and 100-year integrity, or Mary O'Sullivan-Andersen (CEO of the Alberta & East Kootnay BBB) on digital ethics, we strive to make every member and guest feel seen and heard.
Why the World is Watching (and Listening)
The results of this strategic evolution have not gone unnoticed. In 2025 and 2026, the Calgary Petroleum Club achieved unprecedented recognition:
Elite Status: Designated as a Distinguished Club, the first in Alberta and among the top 3% globally.
CMAC Excellence Through Innovation Award: Specifically awarded for the "Back to Business" podcast.
The John Furlong Award: Awarded to Toni-Marie Ion-Brown for Excellence in Club Management.
The RNM Experience: A Voice for the "New" Calgary
What have I learned through 117+ episodes at the Petroleum Club? Calgary is a multifaceted city that thrives on connection. From tech disruptors to traditional energy moguls, the CPC has become the place where these worlds collide.
Resilient New Media is proud to provide the production infrastructure that makes this dialogue possible. We don't just build shows; we build the platforms that make industry leaders relatable and ensure that the voice of Calgary is heard globally.
