LIVE with The Famous Dr AL and Iggy Domagalski

Episode Title: Leading with Purpose – A Conversation with Iggy Domagalski

Episode Summary

In this episode of How to Live a Fantastic Life, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Iggy Domagalski, CEO of Wajax, one of Canada’s most storied industrial companies. From his roots as a political refugee to becoming a transformational leader, Iggy's journey is one of perseverance, adaptability, and intentional leadership. He shares lessons learned from business challenges, building teams, and why a strong company culture is vital to long-term success.

Guest Bio

Iggy Domagalski is the President and CEO of Wajax, a 167-year-old Canadian industrial powerhouse. With a background in finance and entrepreneurship, Iggy has built and led a dozen businesses over two decades. He is passionate about organizational transformation, execution, and creating positive cultural impact in the workplace.

Key Topics and Highlights

From Poland to Port Moody: A Global Journey to Leadership

Iggy shares his family’s journey from Poland to Canada as political refugees. Raised in Winnipeg and educated in finance, he started his career in mutual funds before moving to British Columbia, where he began acquiring and running small industrial businesses, including a startup air compressor firm.

Building and Rebuilding Businesses

Over 20 years, Iggy helped launch and acquire multiple companies, including Tundra, which became his largest and most challenging venture. He recounts the struggles of navigating economic downturns, laying off staff, and rebuilding the company into a more focused, resilient, and profitable enterprise.

Joining Wajax: Culture, Timing, and Trust

During the pandemic, Iggy was approached by Wajax to explore a deal. Despite never meeting in person, the two companies finalized the acquisition via Zoom. Months later, he was offered the role of CEO. Iggy discusses the importance of fit, trust, and the courage to act during uncertain times.

The Role of Creativity in Industry

Though trained in finance, Iggy emphasizes the creative process in leadership and innovation. He believes the best ideas often emerge from front-line employees and insists that great execution is even more crucial than idea generation.

The Power of Focus and Simplification

Iggy shares a current initiative at Wajax: refining business strategy by identifying what truly matters. By reassessing partnerships and eliminating inefficiencies, Wajax aims to become more sustainable and customer-focused.

Transformational Leadership Moments

Taking over Tundra during a major economic downturn, Iggy made hard choices that ultimately led to a stronger, more profitable company. He highlights the importance of trimming distractions and doubling down on core strengths.

The Secret Sauce: Meditation and Intention

Iggy reflects on how daily meditation has transformed his approach to leadership and life. By focusing on values, relationships, and micro-actions, he builds intentional momentum across personal and professional goals.

Advice for Aspiring Leaders

Iggy's key advice: prioritize people and culture, and remember that business can be a powerful force for good. Leaders shape lives far beyond the workplace.

Connect with Iggy and Wajax

Website: www.wajax.com

LinkedIn: Search “Iggy Domagalski”

BIO:

Iggy Domagalski is a professional passionate about creating and growing businesses, nurturing leadership, and building communities. Coming from a finance and industrial equipment background, Iggy finds joy in the thrill of progress and creativity. Being part of Wajax, a player in Canada's history for more than a century, signifies more than just machinery and technology; it represents individuals who bring their vision to life. Through his guidance, Iggy is committed to driving transformations and impacting the lives of others.

Social Media:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/iggydomagalski/