Keeping up with the global, U.S. and national economies is Todd’s primary function as Chief Economist. Relating the information to audiences in a way that is relatable, valuable, and often humorous is Todd’s expertise.

What are the trends in the global and national economies? What is the future of industries that drive the Canadian and local economies? Where do opportunities lie, and where also do the pitfalls lurk?

Todd relies on images, storytelling, and metaphor to deliver refreshing economic presentations. His PowerPoints are void of charts, graphs, and endless text. Being able to speak about the economy without using the typically dull data and graphs, Todd connects with audiences in ways most economists cannot.

From small disappointments to heartbreaking tragedies, unwanted change blindsides us and leaves us wondering what to do next. It might be new neighbours constantly blasting loud music late at night; it might be a technological breakthrough that leaves your business in its dust; it might be a heart attack that nearly kills you. Whatever form it takes, unwanted change requires us to adapt to a harsher environment. Like the spiders sent into space by NASA that found ways to spin their webs without the aid of gravity, we have to find ways to overcome the pitfalls that life places in our path.

Drawing on inspiring stories of individuals, organizations, and businesses, Todd speaks to a selection of adaptive traits that can help us not only survive, but thrive, when unwanted change comes our way.

In Todd’s first book, The Boiling Frog Dilemma, he argues that Canada in the 21st century is at risk of falling behind internationally. We need to “up our game” in terms of creativity, innovation, risk taking, entrepreneurialism, cosmopolitanism, community, and re-thinking environmental stewardship — or risk becoming economically irrelevant on the global stage.

Rather than a prescriptive policy book (i.e., what do governments need to do), Todd recommends a series of actions that Canadians need to do for themselves if we are to continue as a prosperous nation in the future. What are the bad habits we need to drop? And what more positive habits and attitudes do we need to embrace?

There’s been no shortage of commentary and information about the COVID-19 pandemic. The focus is on the health crisis. Yet, just beyond that, an economic crisis is also unfolding. The impact will be significant for businesses, industries, not-for-profits, and individuals in the coming months and years.

The challenge for all of us is the rapid pace at which events are changing. Daily, and sometimes hourly, information shifts and as soon as a forecast is made, it almost immediately becomes outdated.

Drawing on up-to-the-minute information, Todd Hirsch shares insight into our current situation — what we know and don’t know, bright spots in an otherwise bleak time, etc. — to help demystify the economic impact of this crisis and provide some clarity around what we can expect.

This virtual presentation runs between 20-40 minutes with Q&A. Length can be customized depending on client’s needs.