RG Podcast

Bermuda Business Development Agency

The Bermuda Business Development Agency has a pivotal role in connecting Bermuda to the world. Listen in to find out more.

 

Kendaree Burgess, Managing Director

 

As Managing Director, Ms. Burgess leads the BDA’s strategic direction, overseeing its operations, policies, and initiatives to ensure the organisation delivers on its core mission. She works closely with the board and stakeholders to drive Bermuda’s investment promotion efforts, fostering an environment that supports economic growth, business expansion, and long-term prosperity.

 

In her previous role as CEO of the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce, Ms. Burgess focused on economic development, public policy, and fiscal responsibility and was instrumental in driving legislative changes that positively impacted various industries.

 

Over 25 years, Ms. Burgess has gained valuable insights across a diverse range of sectors, including Financial Services, Hospitality, and Healthcare. A lifelong volunteer, Ms Burgess has a keen interest in women’s, socioeconomic, and environmental issues.

 

David Parker, Head of Business Development

 

David leads the Business Development team at the Bermuda Business Development Agency (BDA), overseeing the attraction of inward investment to Bermuda. He works closely with businesses and investors globally who are considering Bermuda as a jurisdiction for growth and expansion, with particular focus on insurance and reinsurance, family offices and high-net-worth individuals, and technology sectors including fintech, insurtech and digital assets.

 

David and his team also advance strategic infrastructure initiatives — from space and satellite to subsea cables — while supporting investment aligned with Bermuda’s climate action priorities.

 

He has worked with governments worldwide on investment attraction initiatives, with assignments spanning North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia Pacific. He relocated to Bermuda in 2025.

 

• Sponsored by Bermuda Business Development Agency

Helping Kids Thrive in a Screen-Filled World

In this episode, Chardonaé Rawlins returns to the Best Health Podcast to unpack the latest guidance on social media and youth mental health. We explore what “mental fitness” really means for children and teens, how digital overload impacts mood, focus, and performance, and why emotional safety is the foundation for helping young people thrive. This is an important conversation for parents, caregivers, educators, and anyone invested in raising resilient kids in a digital world. 

 

Chardonaé Rawlins is a mental health professional and the Founder & Director of Simply Bloom, a Bermuda-based organisation and consultancy supporting children, families, and educators through preventative mental health and wellbeing programmes. Her work focuses on emotional awareness, resilience, and digital wellness, helping families navigate today’s evolving challenges with practical, research-informed strategies. Through workshops, consultations, youth programmes, and community initiatives, Chardonaé is committed to strengthening family systems and creating accessible pathways to support across Bermuda. 

 

Sponsor: Lindo's

The Psychology of Pain with Michelle Monk from Optimum Wellness

Pain isn’t always about a weak muscle or something being “out of place.” In this episode, physiotherapist Michelle Monk joins me to explore the psychology of pain—how stress, sleep, past injuries, and even our beliefs shape what we feel. We unpack common misconceptions, why fear can amplify pain, and how a more informed, whole-body approach can help you rebuild confidence and move forward.

 

Michelle Monk, a seasoned physiotherapist with 15 years of experience, is dedicated to guiding patients to optimal wellness. Specializing in pelvic floor health, she offers comprehensive care, including incontinence and pelvic pain treatment. Michelle's approach emphasizes education, advocacy, and unwavering support, complemented by expertise in manual therapy, electroacupuncture, and K-Taping. With an MSc in Physiotherapy from McMaster University and a BA in Kinesiology and Health from York University, she exemplifies dedication to excellence. Michelle's compassionate care and commitment to patients' well-being make her a respected figure in the field of physiotherapy at Optimum Wellness.

 

Sponsor: Lindo's

BDO Bermuda

BDO, the world’s 5th largest Accounting Network is launching here in Bermuda. Listen to the interview with Global CEO Pat Kramer and Head of Office Gillian McCann as they share their vision for Bermuda’s place in the network.

 

Pat Kramer was appointed as Global CEO on 1 November 2022, following seven years on the Global Board as CEO of BDO Canada. His vision for BDO centres on driving global growth through innovation, quality, and sustainability.

Pat is committed to fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence, ensuring BDO delivers exceptional service to clients and creates a positive impact on communities worldwide. His leadership focuses on empowering people within the organisation to realise their full potential and continuously push the boundaries of what is possible in professional services.

 

Gillian McCann was appointed to lead BDO’s Bermuda practice in 2025, bringing experience honed over two decades in the offshore financial services industry, within Bermuda and other key international markets.

Gillian’s vision for Bermuda is to build a practice grounded in local expertise, supported by BDO’s international network, delivering exceptional service to clients, nurturing talent to support professional advancement, and reflecting the standards that BDO is known for globally.

 

Sponsor: BDO Bermuda

The Science Behind the Glow: Inside the World of K-Beauty with Gladys from Fresh Aura

In this episode, Gladys from Fresh Aura breaks down the world of Korean skincare in a way that’s simple, practical, and empowering. We explore the differences between Korean and Western skincare, how to spot counterfeit products, the hidden risks of over-exfoliation, and how to choose products that truly suit your skin. Whether you’re a skincare minimalist or product enthusiast, this conversation will help you build a smarter, healthier routine.

 

Gladys Nanud is the founder of Fresh Aura BDA, Bermuda’s first boutique dedicated entirely to authentic Korean skincare. What began as a personal passion for self-care has grown into a thriving retail space located at Treehouse in Hamilton.With the support of her son, Sean Fulton, Gladys built Fresh Aura with a mission to help people glow with confidence. She focuses on education-first skincare, offering curated Korean brands and personalized guidance tailored to individual needs and Bermuda’s climate.More than a beauty store, Fresh Aura is a community-centered space rooted in authenticity, intention, and care..

 

Sponsor: Lindo's

Anchor Investment Management Investment Outlook 2026

Listen in to the first asset management podcast: The Investment Outlook for 2026, with special guest Nathan Kowalski from Anchor Investment Management.

 

Nathan is the Chief Financial Officer and Senior Portfolio Manager at Anchor Investment Management Ltd. He sits on the firm's investment committee, compliance committee, and finance committee and has been with the company since 2003.  Nathan holds a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), and Chartered Investment Manager (CIM) designations and is a Fellow of CSI (FCSI). He is a former President of the Chartered Financial Analyst Society of Bermuda board and the former Chair of the Economic Impact Working Group for the SAGE Commission. He was the former President of the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce.

 

Sponsor: Anchor Investment Management

Bodybuilding Beyond the Stage with IFBB with Hafid James

In this episode, Carrie sits down with Bermudian health coach and professional bodybuilder Hafid James for a real-world look at the bodybuilding lifestyle. They dig into the discipline required, the physical and emotional challenges, the difference between bodybuilding and weight-loss goals, and how to pursue the sport in a healthy way. Whether you want to compete or you're just curious about the process, this honest conversation reveals the truth behind the physique.

 

Hafid James is a Bermudian Health Coach, ISSA Nutritionist, Corrective Exercise Specialist, and professional bodybuilder. Known for his balanced, science-based approach to fitness and nutrition, Hafid has helped countless individuals transform their health through realistic, sustainable strategies. As a competitive bodybuilder, he brings firsthand experience and transparency to the discipline, mindset, and lifestyle behind the sport. Hafid is passionate about educating others, breaking down fitness myths, and showing what it truly takes to achieve long-term results while prioritizing mental and physical well-being.

 

Sponsor: Lindo's

The Cardiologist’s Guide to a Heart-Healthy 2026 with Dr Jospeh Yammine

In this episode of the Best Health Podcast, Dr. Yammine talks about how heart disease is often silent until it’s serious. He breaks down real risk factors, common misconceptions, and practical ways to protect your heart in today’s wellness-driven world.

 

Dr. Joseph Yammine is a Consultant Cardiologist at the Bermuda Hospitals Board. He is also the director of the Outpatient Multi-specialty Clinics and director of the Cardiac Computed Tomography [CT] program. He received his post graduate training at the Brigham and Women's hospital, Brown University and the State University of New York. Before joining BHB, Dr. Yammine was in academic clinical practice, as a full time faculty, for eight years, at Brown University . He holds five active American board certifications. During his career in the US, he was awarded multiple teaching and patients' care recognition awards..

 

Sponsor: Lindo's

Bermuda 2025/6 Economic Review and Outlook

Listen in to hear the views from experts Nathan Kowalski and Jonathan Kent on how Bermuda faired during 2025 and what the outlook and potential challenges are for 2026.

 

Nathan Kowalski

Nathan is the Chief Financial Officer and Senior Portfolio Manager at Anchor Investment Management Ltd. He sits on the firm's investment committee, compliance committee, and finance committee and has been with the company since 2003.  Nathan holds a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), and Chartered Investment Manager (CIM) designations and is a Fellow of CSI (FCSI). He is a former President of the Chartered Financial Analyst Society of Bermuda board and the former Chair of the Economic Impact Working Group for the SAGE Commission. He was the former President of the Bermuda Chamber of Commerce.

 

Jonathan Kent, Business Writer

Jonathan is a corporate writer for clients in the international business sector, producing content including white papers, web copy, press releases and thought-leadership articles. Before starting his own business in 2021, he was Business Editor and Deputy Editor of The Royal Gazette. During his journalistic career, he also covered news and sports for UK national and regional newspapers and magazines, including the Daily Mail, The Independent on Sunday and the Grimsby Telegraph. Jonathan has an MSc in International Management from the University of Liverpool.

 

• Brought to you by The Royal Gazette

BBA Series Part 10 - Financial Crime: Frauds and Scams

Listen in to Part 10 of the Bermuda Bankers Association Series on Frauds and Scams with special guests: Jason Smith, Head of the Bermuda Police Service Financial Crime Unit and Twynika Smith-Blakeney, HSBC Chief Compliance Officer.

 

Twynika Smith-Blakeney was appointed as the HSBC Bank Bermuda Limited’s Chief Compliance Officer on 1 August 2021. She joined the Bank in December 1999 and has over 25 years’ experience in the financial services industry, including various roles within the Bank’s Asset Management and Compliance departments. In September 2020, Twynika was appointed as the Interim Head of Regulatory Compliance and in December 2020, was appointed as the Interim Chief Compliance Officer where she provided leadership to the Compliance function. In her capacity as Chief Compliance Officer, Twynika is responsible for leading the Bank’s Compliance department to ensure that HSBC’s operations in Bermuda are effective in identifying, managing, and mitigating Regulatory Compliance and Financial Crime and Fraud risks.

 

With three decades of exemplary policing experience, Jason Smith serves as the Head of the Bermuda Police Service Financial Crime Unit, leading complex investigations involving money laundering, fraud, corruption, and emerging financial threats. A seasoned Senior Investigating Officer, he applies strategic oversight, rigorous investigative standards, and international best practices to safeguard Bermuda’s financial integrity. His leadership has strengthened cross-border partnerships, enhanced investigative capability, and guided high-profile financial-crime inquiries. Supported by numerous commendations, advanced investigative training, and a proven record of transformational leadership, he continues to drive innovation, uphold regulatory confidence, and protect the island’s global reputation as a trusted financial jurisdiction.

 

• Sponsored by Bermuda Bankers Association

www.bermudabankers.org