Join us as we explore how David turned his woodworking hobby into a thriving YouTube channel, Timber Designs. Sharing tool reviews, beginner-friendly projects, and insights into the tight-knit woodworking community. Learn about his challenges, from starting with basic equipment to balancing family life and content creation, and discover how community involvement fuelled his success.

This episode is packed with valuable insights for creators, makers, and anyone looking to start their own journey. Whether you're a woodworking enthusiast or just curious about building an authentic online presence, you’ll gain tips on growing a YouTube channel, connecting with local businesses, and fostering meaningful engagement.

Don’t miss David’s advice on getting started with simple tools, finding your niche, and embracing the creative process.

Join us as we dive deep into the inspiring story of Anna Proctor, publisher of North Simcoe Life, a community magazine in Simcoe County. Discover the work she does to connect neighbours, celebrate local businesses, and share the stories that make our region unique. From humble beginnings to becoming a trusted resource, Anna recounts her journey of resilience, creativity, and dedication to building a community one story at a time.

Learn about the evolution of North Simcoe Life over the past 20 years — from its roots as a local newspaper to embracing digital innovation amidst challenges like the pandemic. You'll get to hear how Anna's unconventional path and passion for storytelling led her to where she is today.

Don't miss this heartfelt conversation that celebrates creativity, adaptability, and the power of community.

Chapters

Join us as we kick off the new year with an inspiring discussion on ambition, fear, and personal growth in this special episode of the Behind the Village podcast. In this episode, we dive deep into what ambition truly means—beyond the hustle culture—and explore how fear and self-doubt often hold us back from pursuing our dreams.

Discover valuable insights on how to redefine ambition in your own life, face challenges with confidence, and embrace the journey toward personal fulfillment. Learn about overcoming roadblocks, the importance of self-reflection, and how adaptability and bravery can turn "Why can't I?" into "Why not me?"

This episode also sets the stage for our theme of the podcast over the next couple of months, "Why Can't I," where we’ll feature inspiring stories of local individuals who have faced challenges, overcome fears, and redefined success in their unique ways. Whether it's building a business, navigating life’s unexpected turns, or striving for happiness, their journeys will leave you inspired.

Don’t miss out—like this video, subscribe to our channel for more episodes, and join us in exploring what it means to live ambitiously and authentically. Together, let’s challenge the status quo and discover the courage to chase our dreams. Why can’t you? Let’s find out.

This episode of our Behind The Village podcast features Dr. Kathy Marchildon, the owner of Lake Country Animal Hospital.

In this conversation, we dive deep into her journey of becoming a veterinarian, from her childhood experiences with animals to her passion for providing the best care for pets. Discover the approach Lake Country Animal Hospital takes in the veterinary world, where the focus is on tailored veterinary care that prioritizes both pets and their families.

Dr. Marchildon shares her thoughts on the evolution of veterinary medicine, the challenges faced by the industry, strategies for pet owners to ensure their furry companions receive optimal care, and more.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into the world of veterinary medicine and learn how you can enhance your pet's health and happiness.

In this episode, I sit down with Jim Fitzgerald, the General Manager of the Orillia Area Community Development Corporation (CDC), to explore his journey from the banking industry to the nonprofit sector.

Jim shares valuable insights on how he empowers local entrepreneurs and small businesses through the various services offered by the CDC, including business coaching, workshops, and lending programs.

We delve into the significance of community support for aspiring business owners and discuss practical strategies for overcoming the common fears and self-doubts that often accompany entrepreneurship. Jim also introduces us to the BizLink program, a unique matchmaking service designed to connect potential buyers with existing businesses for sale, highlighting the opportunities available in our community.

Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just contemplating starting your own business, this episode is filled with inspiration and actionable advice.

Don't forget to like and subscribe to our YouTube Channel!

Access the full show notes and resources mentioned in this episode at https://villagermagazine.ca/podcast/

In this episode of our Behind The Village podcast, we welcome Kelly Parke, a creative powerhouse with a diverse background that spans television, engineering, music, and more. He is currently a professor at Schulich School of Business at York University teaching creativity and innovation.

Join us as we dive into an engaging conversation about innovation, adaptability, and the critical skills necessary for success in today's rapidly changing world. Kelly shares his insights on the importance of questioning and observing, as well as the role of creativity in problem-solving. We explore the concept of Adaptability Quotient (AQ) and how it can help individuals and organizations thrive amidst challenges.

With practical tools like the Innovator's DNA and Foursight assessments, listeners will gain valuable perspectives on fostering creativity and collaboration.

This episode is perfect for entrepreneurs, students, and anyone looking to enhance their innovative thinking. Tune in for an enlightening discussion that encourages you to embrace change and discover your creative potential!

Access the full show notes and resources mentioned in this episode at https://villagermagazine.ca/podcast/

In this episode of our Behind The Village podcast, Mikaila Bolzonello sits down with Kate Henderson, the director of Telecare Distress Line for Greater Simcoe. We explore the vital role of this community-driven service that operates around the clock, providing support and connection to those in need.

Kate shares insights into how Telecare connects individuals with caring volunteers who are ready to listen, whether you're facing a crisis or just need someone to talk to if you're feeling lonely or are celebrating personal achievements.

Whether you're looking for help, want to understand more about mental health resources, or are interested in volunteering, this episode is packed with valuable information about the social impact of this community service.

Access the full show notes and resources mentioned in this episode at https://villagermagazine.ca/podcast/

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/

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/

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.