top of page
Writer's pictureChris Herbert

Daren Jones

Updated: 6 hours ago

Developing Rural Healthcare Entrepreneurs: The Hear Right Canada Story

Daren Jones, Hear Right Canada

TL;DR

  • Daren Jones, co-owner of Hear Right Canada, shares how the company has expanded from 21 to 84 locations using a unique co-ownership model that empowers hearing care professionals to own their own clinics.

  • Instead of a traditional franchise, Hear Right Canada offers autonomy and support, helping clinicians become entrepreneurs.

  • The company’s success in rural markets is a result of consistent community engagement, personal connections, and adapting to local needs.

  • Daren’s story shows how entrepreneurship, collaboration, and modern technology can thrive even in remote areas.



Introduction

Entrepreneurship is often seen as a solo journey, but successful businesses thrive when there’s collaboration, community, and shared ownership.


Daren Jones, co-owner of Hear Right Canada, a rapidly expanding hearing care company founded by Albert Marshall, is proving that in the rural healthcare space, working together and empowering others can lead to remarkable success.


In this podcast, we’ll dive into Daren’s entrepreneurial journey, the co-ownership model that has transformed his business, and how rural entrepreneurs can thrive in today’s market.


Daren Jones: from Industry Veteran to Co-Owner

Daren’s path to entrepreneurship wasn’t exactly planned.


After 18 years in the hearing care industry, working on the manufacturer side and developing relationships across Canada, Daren was invited by Albert Marshall, the company’s founder, to join and help build the business.


What started as a partnership to develop a call center and lead acquisition strategy grew into an opportunity for Daren to become a co-owner.


I always had it in me,” Daren shares. “But it took Albert’s belief in me to give me the push to take the leap.


Seven years later, Hear Right Canada has grown from 21 to 84 locations, and Daren credits the unique co-ownership model as one of the key drivers of success.


But it’s not just about business growth—it’s about giving hearing care professionals the tools, support, and ownership they need to become entrepreneurs themselves.


The Power of Co-Ownership

The core of the business model is empowering hearing care professionals to become co-owners of their clinics.


Unlike traditional franchise models, where control is held by the parent company, Hear Right Canada offers an approach where the clinic owners have the freedom to personalize their space and make decisions about the environment and services they offer.


What we want is for our clinicians to feel at home in their clinic. They’re not just working in a job; they’re part of something they own,” Daren explains.


This flexibility and autonomy allow for a unique clinic culture that feels local and personalized. Whether it’s sourcing artwork from a local artist or incorporating a bench made from a fallen tree, the clinics have a distinctive touch that reflects the personality of the owner and their community.


A Model That Works for Rural Markets

The co-ownership model has been particularly successful in rural communities, where personal connections and trust are essential to business success.


The rural market has its challenges—long distances, tight-knit communities, and a slower pace—but it also has opportunities for entrepreneurs willing to be consistent, show up, and build lasting relationships.


For rural communities, it’s all about consistency,” Daren notes. “When you show up regularly and prove that you’re here for the long term, the community will support you.”


One example of this is the company’s expansion into remote areas of Newfoundland and Labrador. Daren recalls the first time they visited a rural clinic in Labrador and the challenges they faced.


The community was skeptical at first—would they return? But by committing to regular visits and being visible in the community, Daren’s company built trust and, eventually, a steady stream of clients.


Technology: Breaking the Stigma of Hearing Aids

Beyond the business model, Daren also addresses an often-overlooked aspect of the hearing care industry: the stigma surrounding hearing loss and hearing aids.


Many people delay seeking help due to embarrassment or denial, but as Daren points out, modern hearing aids have evolved significantly, offering features that make them less noticeable and more effective.


The technology has come a long way,” says Daren. “We now have hearing aids that blend seamlessly with earbuds and can even reduce background noise. People aren’t as self-conscious about wearing them anymore because they don’t look like traditional hearing aids.


Hearing aids are no longer the bulky devices they once were. In fact, some models look like common Bluetooth earphones, making them more discreet and socially acceptable.


Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

For those considering entrepreneurship, Daren offers a valuable piece of advice: be ready to hustle, build relationships, and connect with the community.


Gone are the days of thinking that a great idea will get people to come running to your door,” he says. “You have to be proactive—knock on doors, engage with the community, and promote yourself consistently. The internet may give you more options, but local, grassroots connections are still the foundation of success.”


Daren’s journey shows that with the right mindset, collaboration, and willingness to put in the work, entrepreneurs can thrive, especially in rural markets.


His story proves that entrepreneurship is about more than just the idea—it’s about building the right team, creating lasting relationships, and providing genuine value to your customers.


Final Thoughts

Daren Jones’ entrepreneurial journey at Hear Right Canada is a perfect example of how empowering others, staying consistent, and adapting to the changing needs of the market can create a thriving business.


His co-ownership model offers valuable lessons for rural entrepreneurs: the importance of community, adaptability, and showing up every day.


Whether you're in the healthcare industry or any other field, Daren’s story proves that with the right approach, anything is possible—even in the most rural corners of the world.


About the Rural Entrepreneur Podcast Series

The Rural Entrepreneur Podcast Series delves into the stories of rural entrepreneurs, exploring their struggles, triumphs, and the driving force behind their perseverance. The conversations are profound and insightful. If you're interested in being a sponsor or guest, feel free to contact us or book some time with Chris.

8 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


AD_Importance of Entrepreneurship.png

Content Series

Tags

bottom of page