Behind The Village Podcast

Behind The Village Podcast

por The Villager Magazine

Sociedad y Cultura

Becoming an Artist: Persistence and Passion | Lindsay Smail

Join us in this episode as Jiun Liao sits down with artist and painter Lindsay Smail, known for her stunning abstract oil paintings that draw inspiration from the landscape. Lindsay takes us through her unexpected journey from a background in English literature to discovering her passion for visual arts. In this conversation, Lindsay shares her thoughts on the creative process, the importance of community among artists, and the role of intuition in her work. She discusses how embracing uncertainty and surrendering to the moment can lead to profound discoveries in art. We also explore the challenges artists face in balancing creativity with the business side of their craft, including marketing, networking, and the long game of selling art. Whether you're an artist yourself or simply curious about the creative process, this episode is filled with insights and inspiration that resonate beyond the canvas. Access the full show notes and resources mentioned in this episode at https://villagermagazine.ca/podcast/

Mariposa Arts Theatre: The Heart of Orillia's Community Theatre | Stevie Baker

Join us in this episode as Mikaila Bolzonello sits down with Stevie Baker, the president of Mariposa Arts Theatre Foundation (MAT), to explore the vibrant world of community theatre. With a rich background in theatre, Stevie shares her journey from directing iconic productions like Steel Magnolias to leading MAT through transformative changes since joining the board. Stevie’s passion for theatre as a tool for social change shines throughout the conversation, highlighting the importance of representation and community engagement in the arts. Whether you're a seasoned theatre enthusiast or new to the scene, this episode offers insights into the heart and soul of community theatre. Don't forget to like and subscribe to our channel for more episodes! Access the full show notes and resources mentioned in this episode at https://villagermagazine.ca/podcast/

Navigating Housing Affordability: Insights from City & County Experts | Janette McGee & Robin Chapman

In this episode, we dive deep into the pressing issue of housing affordability in Orillia and Simcoe County. Join Mikaila Bolzonello as she welcomes Janette McGee, Housing Coordinator for the City of Orillia, and Robin Chapman, Program Supervisor at the County of Simcoe's Housing Services Division. Together, they discuss the challenges faced by residents in the current housing market, from rising rental costs to the struggles of first-time home buyers. You'll hear about innovative programs and initiatives aimed at creating affordable and attainable housing options for all income levels. Learn about the collaborative efforts between city and county officials, including the 10-year Affordable Housing Plan, the Housing ASAP program, and various supports available for renters and homeowners alike. If you're someone looking to buy a home in Simcoe County regardless of your income level, this episode will offer valuable insights and resources to help navigate the complex landscape of affordable housing. Access the full show notes for this episode at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠villagermagazine.ca/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Turning Pizza into 35 Years of Success at Bedrock Cafe | Peter Schembri

In this episode, join Mikaila Bolzonello as she sits down with Peter Schembri, the driving force behind Bedrock Cafe, a beloved family-run pizza restaurant celebrating 35 years in business. Tapping into their shared Italian heritage and personal stories, Mikaila and Peter explore the rich history of Bedrock Cafe, from its humble beginnings as a donut shop to its evolution into a local pizza favourite. Listeners will get a glimpse behind the scenes as Peter discusses pizza-making techniques, the importance of community support, and some surprisingly unique pizza toppings that have delighted customers over the years. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Bedrock Cafe or looking for a new favourite pizza place, this episode is a delicious mix of nostalgia, family ties, and the love that goes into every slice. Access the full show notes for this episode at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠villagermagazine.ca/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

The Surprising Way Connection Beats Competition in Marketing | Jiun Liao

In this insightful episode, hosts Jiun and Mikaila dive deep into the essence of marketing and its transformative power for small businesses. With the backdrop of Canadian Small Business Week, they explore vital questions that every entrepreneur asks themselves before launching their marketing strategies. Jiun, a seasoned marketing strategist with nearly a decade of experience, emphasizes the importance of self-discovery in marketing. He highlights that understanding who you are and what you believe in is crucial for creating meaningful connections, rather than just focusing on selling products. The hosts discuss their personal experiences, including their entrepreneurial journey, the challenges they've faced, and the valuable lessons learned along the way. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your marketing approach, this episode offers practical advice, relatable stories, and encouragement to embrace your uniqueness in the world of business. Tune in to discover how to connect with your audience on a deeper level and foster growth in your entrepreneurial journey! Access the full show notes for this episode at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠villagermagazine.ca/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Eclectic Cafe: Chasing Dreams and Redefining Culinary Norms | Melanie Robinson

In this episode of the podcast, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of Chef Melanie Robinson, the owner of Eclectic Café, a beloved culinary gem in Orillia. Join us as we explore Melanie's evolution from her early aspirations in policing and emergency services to embracing her true passion for cooking at the age of 30. Melanie shares her heartfelt story of loss and resilience, illustrating how personal experiences shaped her desire to create meaningful connections through food. From her first culinary experiences in her father's kitchen to her transformative trip to Kelowna, British Columbia, Melanie’s path is a testament to the power of following one's passion. We discuss the importance of community support, the challenges of starting a business, and the significance of local sourcing in creating exceptional dining experiences. Melanie highlights the unique aspects of Eclectic Café, including their ever-changing menu that reflects seasonal ingredients and offers customers a chance to explore new flavours. Tune in to hear about the café's innovative services and how Melanie's commitment to mental health and a positive work culture sets Eclectic apart in a traditionally high-pressure industry. Whether you’re a food enthusiast or someone considering a culinary career, this episode is filled with valuable insights and inspiration. Access the full show notes for this episode at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠villagermagazine.ca/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

The Importance of Fundraising and Crisis Support | Lynn Thomas

In this episode, I had a moving conversation with Lynn Thomas, a dedicated professional fundraiser and development director at North Simcoe Victim Services (NSVS). Join us as we explore the vital role NSVS plays in the community, providing critical support for individuals in crisis. Lynn shares her journey from her early days in fundraising to her passionate involvement in social services, highlighting the profound impact of community engagement. We also talk about some of the incredible initiatives underway at NSVS, including the upcoming "Ride for Refuge" event and the launch of their monthly donation program, SAVE (Support Advocate for Victim Empowerment). Learn how you can get involved, whether through volunteering, participating in events, or contributing to this essential cause. Lynn’s insights into the challenges and rewards of working in victim services will inspire you to take action and support those who need it most. So sit back, relax, and enjoy my conversation with Lynn Thomas. Access the full show notes for this episode at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠villagermagazine.ca/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Orillia Museum (OMAH) Celebrates 25 Years of Art and History! | Ninette Gyorody

In this episode, join Jiun Liao as he welcomes Ninette Gyorody, the Executive Director of the Orillia Museum of Art and History (OMAH), to discuss the museum's vibrant history and its exciting future. With a focus on community engagement, Ninette shares how OMAH has evolved over its 25 years, transitioning from a traditional museum space to a dynamic hub for art and history. Listeners will learn about OMAH's commitment to showcasing both local and national artists through rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and community events. The episode also dives into the importance of museums in preserving community history and fostering connections among residents. With insights into upcoming exhibitions and the museum's outreach efforts, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone interested in arts and culture of Orillia and area. Tune in to discover how OMAH continues to make history while celebrating its past and looking toward a bright future! Access the full show notes for this episode at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠villagermagazine.ca/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:03 Ninette's Journey and OMAH's Transformation 04:52 The Value of OMAH to the Community 06:19 Art and History: Two Pillars of OMAH 09:13 Celebrating 25 Years 12:00 Future Plans and Acquisition Fund 15:50 Challenges of Space and Collection 19:27 The Process of Collecting Artifacts 23:45 The Importance of Museums 27:02 25th Anniversary Events and Activities 29:45 Community Engagement and Programs 32:07 Membership and Support Opportunities 34:01 Current Exhibitions at OMAH 38:08 Outro

Empowering Orillia: An Age-Friendly Revolution | Valerie Powell

In this episode, I sit down with Valerie Powell, an advocate for age-friendly communities and co-chair of Age Friendly Orillia. We dive into the formation of this organization, a grassroots initiative aimed at addressing the needs of older adults in Orillia and area. Valerie discusses the eight domains of age-friendliness as defined by the World Health Organization and highlights the importance of combating social isolation, especially in the wake of the pandemic. She offers practical advice for older adults feeling isolated and emphasizes community engagement through programs like homesharing and Naturally Occurring Retirement Communities (NORCs). Listeners will also learn about the upcoming Aging Well Expo on October 16 at Lakehead University. This free event will feature informative booths, engaging speakers, and workshops focused on promoting healthy aging. Join us for an insightful discussion on how we can all contribute to making our communities more inclusive and supportive for older adults. Access the full show notes for this episode at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠villagermagazine.ca/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Valerie Powell and Her Background 04:39 The Birth of Age-Friendly Orillia 08:03 Focus on Social Isolation After COVID-19 11:00 Innovative Housing Solutions for Seniors 14:23 The Importance of Social Engagement 17:13 Navigating Information Silos in Community Engagement 20:08 Walkability and Accessibility in Orillia 24:31 Support For Change Within Local Government 27:58 Planning for Aging: The Go-Go, Slow-Go, and No-Go Stages 33:55 Understanding Co-Housing and Cooperative Living 39:34 The Aging Well Expo: A Community Initiative 46:22 Be Part of Age Friendly Orillia 52:18 Outro

Why We Need to Protect Nature for Future Generations | Courtney Baker

In this episode, I sit down with Courtney Baker, the Office and Acquisition Coordinator at the Couchiching Conservancy. Courtney shares her inspiring journey from studying archaeology and anthropology to becoming a key player in local conservation efforts. Discover the vital work being done to protect nearly 15,000 acres of natural land and how the conservancy creates wildlife corridors that are essential for maintaining biodiversity in our region. We discuss the importance of community involvement, from volunteering to participating in engaging programs like "Passport to Nature," and how every small action contributes to the fight against climate change. Listeners will learn about the various initiatives at the conservancy, from monitoring wildlife populations to organizing educational events. Courtney also shares her insights on land trusts and their critical role in safeguarding our natural heritage for future generations. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a budding conservationist, or simply curious about how to get involved, this episode is packed with valuable information and inspiration. Tune in to find out how you can make a difference and support the conservation efforts right in your own backyard! Access the full show notes for this episode at ⁠⁠⁠⁠villagermagazine.ca/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠. Chapters 00:00 Intro 03:03 Courtney's Journey 04:57 Becoming Involved with the Couchiching Conservancy 09:12 What is Couchiching Conservancy and What Does it do 12:43 What is a Land Trust 15:25 Donating Land to the Conservancy 18:47 Exploring the Conservancy's Land 21:54 Free and Low-Cost Programs for Everyone 29:25 Upcoming Events and the Unveiling of Cedar Grove Nature Reserve 31:30 Plot Based Climate Change Research 34:43 Volunteering at the Couchiching Conservancy 36:23 Climate Change 37:23 Making a Difference as an Individual 41:08 Learn More About Couchiching Conservancy 43:02 Outro

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