Behind The Village Podcast

Join us as we explore how to build a sustainable future together with Sarah Patterson, president of Common Earth and Sustainable Orillia. In this insightful episode of the Behind the Village podcast, Sarah shares her journey from urban Toronto to the community-driven life in Orillia, highlighting how embracing sustainability and fostering support systems can drive meaningful change through the climate crisis. Climate change involve...

Step inside the fascinating world of the Mariposa Folk Festival with historian Michael Hill as we explore 50+ years of music, mayhem, and magic that have shaped this iconic event. Michael shares captivating stories about legendary performances from artists like Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, and Gordon Lightfoot, along with unexpected moments that defined the festival's vibrant history.

Discover how this beloved Canadian cultural insti...

From local roots to the global stage, join us as we explore the incredible journey of The Free Label in this episode of the Behind the Village podcast. We talk with Cole Mendez and Jacob Thompson about the band's evolution from a basement studio to playing international stages, their unique sound blending 70s disco, 90s R&B, and funk, and the tight-knit camaraderie that sets them apart. Discover the work being done by these tal...

Join us as we dive into the story behind Mariposa Millwork, a new local business in Orillia. In this episode of the Behind the Village podcast, Kevin Keddy shares the journey of transforming a former automotive shop into a stunning doors and trim showroom.

Learn about the collaborative efforts that brought this vision to life, the challenges of starting from scratch, and how Mariposa Millwork is making a difference in the Orillia c...

This Behind The Village Podcast episode features Tom Stoate, President of The Hitch House. We dive deep into how tariffs are reshaping the RV industry, revealing their far-reaching effects on prices, manufacturing, and consumer decisions. Learn about the challenges faced by local businesses like The Hitch House and discover the incredible story of its growth, resilience, and community-focused operations in Simcoe County.

Tom shares ...

Join us as we dive into the world of music with Nixon Boyd, a talented local musician, songwriter, and producer. In this episode, Nixon shares his creative journey, the struggles of being a musician, and the relentless grind that shaped his career. Discover the work being done behind the scenes, from his early days in the band Hollerado to his transition into solo projects and producing for other artists.

Learn about his approach to...

Join us as we explore the inspiring work of CYAC Simcoe Muskoka with Kate Waugh on this episode of the Behind the Village podcast. Learn about the essential role the Child and Youth Advocacy Center plays in protecting children, supporting families, and fostering community involvement across Simcoe County and Muskoka. From addressing child abuse and human trafficking to offering trauma-informed care and prevention programs, CYAC is ...

From farmers' markets to a thriving local bagel company, discover the inspiring story behind Poppies Bagels in Orillia! Join us as Cam Fraser and Britt Hicks, the passionate co-owners, share how they turned a love for baking and community into a beloved New York-style bagel shop. Learn about their journey from side hustles and culinary school to collaborating at a New Year's Eve party, where the idea for Poppies was born.

This epis...

Step into the heart of a thriving community as we go inside Manticore Books, a beloved local bookstore in downtown Orillia. In this episode we talk with Michael Fredson, the passionate owner of Manticore Books, about the vital role bookstores play in shaping communities, fostering connections, and supporting local authors. Discover the work being done to curate a unique literary experience that resonates with the diverse interests ...

Discover the secrets to a clutter-free home and happy mind with decluttering expert Marika Fox! Marika shares her inspiring journey toward helping individuals transform their spaces and minds through the art of simplifying and organizing. From practical tips on tackling clutter to creating functional systems, this episode is filled with valuable insights and resources to make a difference in your home and mental well-being.

Marika d...

In this episode, we dive into the transformation of North Simcoe Arts with special guest Anitta Hamming, founder of Creative Nomad Studios and strategic consultant for the arts council. Discover how a strategic plan and a bold vision are reshaping the regional arts landscape — from reconnecting communities and supporting artists, to boosting cultural tourism and creating new funding opportunities.

Anitta shares her journey from busi...

Join us as we dive into the 65-year legacy of the Mariposa Folk Festival, a cornerstone of Orillia's cultural heritage! Discover the incredible work being done behind the scenes by organizers Pam Carter and Spencer Shewen, as they share valuable insights into what it takes to bring this iconic event to life year after year.

From the festival's rich history and evolution to its vibrant community involvement and commitment to sustaina...

Step into the fascinating world of wildlife and pest control with Will McIntosh, co-founder of Exit Wildlife and Pest Control, as we explore the challenges, solutions, and opportunities in managing human-wildlife interactions. In this episode, we dive into the vital work being done to balance humane wildlife removal, prevention strategies, and community education. Discover valuable insights into the misconceptions surrounding pest ...

Join us as we dive into the world of wildlife conservation and education with Krystal Hewitt from Speaking of Wildlife. Discover the incredible work being done by this local nonprofit to provide sanctuary for non-releasable wild animals while fostering a deeper connection between people and the wildlife in their backyards. From heartwarming rescue stories to impactful education programs, this episode offers valuable insights into h...

Join us as we explore the groundbreaking work of Awake in transforming cremated remains into a sustainable legacy. In this episode we sit down with Lauren Andrew, Co-Founder of Awake, as we dive into the environmental impact of traditional funerary practices and learn about the innovative solutions they bring to the deathcare industry. Discover how Awake is creating eco-friendly memorials, from scattering gardens to memorial forest...

In this episode of the Behind The Village podcast, Hillary Handy shares her journey of embracing courage, navigating career shifts, and finding clarity in her new path toward becoming an itinerant teacher supporting Deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Her story, rooted in her family's rich history within the Deaf community and her own experiences, offers valuable insights into balancing motherhood, professional growth, and community...

Go behind the scenes of small-town real estate with Gillian Stockdale, a seasoned real estate professional from Simcoe County, as she opens up about her 22-year journey in the industry. Join us as we explore her inspiring career path, from navigating the challenges of being a young agent in a competitive field to discovering the importance of finding the right fit in real estate. Learn about the evolution of real estate practices, ...

In this heartfelt episode of the Behind The Village podcast, we dive deep into the incredible journey of resilience, love, and healing shared by Jackleen Givens and her son. From living through homelessness and addiction to navigating an autism diagnosis at 15, their untold story sheds light on the challenges families face and the strength it takes to persevere.

Discover how Jackleen's dedication to journaling led to the creation o...

Unlock your true potential and learn how to lead without fear in this transformative episode of the Behind the Village podcast. Join us as Risha Yorke, founder of Yorke Motivational Consulting, shares valuable insights on building self-confidence, discovering your passions, and leading authentically. Together, we explore overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing your strengths, and creating meaningful connections in your personal and...