Bradford Banter

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In this episode of Bradford Banter, host Natasha Philpott is joined by Nancy Bayly and Mikki Nanowski of the  Bond Head Bradford Garden Club to celebrate a blooming milestone—the Club’s 50th anniversary!

Nancy and Mikki share the rich history of this volunteer-led group, how it’s evolved over five decades, and the powerful impact it continues to have on beautifying public spaces in our community. We also dig into one of the club’s most vibrant annual traditions: the Community Garden Tour & Viewers Choice Awards, happening July 25 to August 10.

You’ll learn how to join the tour, nominate a front or side garden, and vote for your favourite blooms. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just plant-curious, they also explain how easy it is to get involved with the Club—no experience necessary, just a love of community and greenery!

🌸 Ready to explore, nominate, or join?
 👉 Follow the Garden Club:  Bond Head Bradford Garden Club Facebook Page
👉 Event details: Community Garden Tour & Viewers Choice Awards

Celebrate 50 years of local beautification and community spirit—one garden at a time.

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Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

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In this episode of Bradford Banter, host Natasha Philpott sits down with Mark Pagliaroli, Festival Director of the Inkwell Literary Festival, York Region’s vibrant celebration of readers and writers.

Mark shares the behind-the-scenes journey of how Inkwell evolved from a local passion project into a growing platform for storytelling, mentorship, and community connection. From curating author lineups to launching youth programs and writer bootcamps, Mark gives us a peek into what it takes to run a grassroots literary festival with big impact.

Whether you’re a writer, reader, or just someone who loves the power of words, this conversation will inspire you to get involved—and maybe even pick up that pen.

🎉 Learn more at: www.inkwellfest.com
📚 Follow Inkwell on Instagram: @inkwellfest

 🎧 Subscribe for more local stories that matter!

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Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

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When Beth Vanstone’s daughter Madi was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis as a baby, she was thrust into a world of uncertainty, medical complexity, and urgent decisions. In this powerful episode of Bradford Banter, Beth shares how her family’s personal journey led to a national fight for access to life-saving treatments—not just for Madi, but for thousands of Canadians living with rare diseases.

We talk about the barriers families face in our healthcare system, the years-long battle to get vital drugs approved and publicly funded, and the toll it takes when time is not on your side. Beth also opens up about what keeps her going, what still needs to change, and why no family should ever have to fight this hard to access care.

This is an eye-opening, deeply human conversation about resilience, reform, and the power of a mother’s voice.

Links to learn more:

Cystic Fibrosis Canada

Provincial Action Group

Email for Beth Vanstone: [email protected] 

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Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

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Sisters Spreading Joy: The Story Behind A Bradford Christmas

 In this heartwarming episode of Bradford Banter, host Natasha Philpott sits down with Sarah and Emily Dahlgren—two sisters who turned their love of giving into a powerful community movement. Born and raised in Bradford, the duo launched A Bradford Christmas in 2019 when they were just teenagers. Since then, they’ve raised over $75,000 and have supported hundreds of local children and families in need.

Natasha dives into how the charity began, the incredible community support it’s received, and their ambitious 2025 campaign benefiting Glowing Hearts Charity and Margaret Bahen Hospice. The sisters also share behind-the-scenes stories, talk about the huge role their parents have played in their journey, and even open up about their love of baseball with their dad.

From grassroots fundraising to becoming a registered charity, this episode is full of inspiration, laughter, and the spirit of what makes Bradford such a special place.

🧸 Learn more at abradfordchristmas.com

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Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

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In this episode of Bradford Banter, we sit down with Jennifer Bahinski—Market Manager of the Bradford Farmers’ Market, talented Indigenous artist, and proud hockey and soccer mom.

Jennifer shares her powerful personal story, including the life-changing discovery that she was adopted and her journey to reconnect with her Ojibwe and Ecuadorian roots. We talk about how that experience inspired her healing, her art, and her leadership in the community.

We explore what makes the Bradford Farmers’ Market such a special part of our town, what vendors and events you can look forward to this season—and how it feels to be nominated as one of the Best in Simcoe County for 2025!

On the personal side, Jennifer gives us a behind-the-scenes look at life as a busy sports mom, balancing market days with time at the hockey rink and soccer field.

It’s a warm, inspiring conversation about identity, healing, community, and connection—don’t miss it!

👉 Follow along for more:
📸 Bradford Farmers’ Market Instagram: @bradfordfarmersmarket
📘 Bradford Farmers’ Market Facebook: Bradford Ontario Farmers’ Market
🎨 Bella Lovelee Beads: @bellaloveleebeads
🌿 Anishnawbe Health Toronto: aht.ca

Support the show

Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

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In this episode of Bradford Banter, we dive into the powerful fitness journey of Josie Patera—fitness guru, motivator, and the force behind Bradford's Me Versus Me run group and MoveThatBody initiative. 

Josie shares how she turned movement into medicine, using her signature #MoveThatBody mantra to stay consistent, grounded, and self-focused.

We talk about building discipline, tuning out the noise, and choosing yourself—every single day. 

Whether you're just starting out or deep in your own journey, Josie’s story will remind you that the real competition is never with others—it's always you versus you.

🚨 Follow Josie for daily motivation: @josiiep

 🧠💪 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share this episode with someone ready to move their body—and their mindset.

Support the show

Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

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In this inspiring episode of Bradford Banter, we sit down with Cheraldean Duhaney—the first Black woman ever elected to Bradford West Gwillimbury council, and the first woman elected in over 12 years.

Cheraldean shares her powerful story of breaking barriers, serving her community through politics, health care and her work as a mom and foster mother. We explore her involvement in youth leadership initiatives like the Be the Change Youth Advisory Committee, her recent recognition as one of Canada's Top 100 Black Women to Watch, and how she’s helping create a more inclusive and equitable Bradford.

We also talk about the incredible work being done at the Impact Youth and Cultural Centre, where local youth are given tools, mentorship, and platforms to lead and grow.

📬 Contact Cheraldean Duhaney
Email: [email protected]

📬 Contact Impact Youth and Cultural Centre
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @impactycc

🎧 Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave a rating—and join us next time as we continue to shine a light on the people making a difference right here in BWG.

#BradfordBanter #CheraldeanDuhaney #BWG #YouthLeadership #BlackWomenToWatch #LocalPolitics #ImpactYCC #CommunityMatters

Support the show

Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

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📄 Episode Description:
In this episode of Bradford Banter, host Natasha Philpott travels just south of town to King Township to share the inspiring story behind the King Proud Charity Golf Challenge — a local tradition built on resilience, purpose, and a passion for giving back.

She’s joined by the tournament’s founder, whose personal journey with cerebral palsy, Easter Seals, and decades of community leadership has touched lives across Ontario. What began in 2014 as a small golf fundraiser during his mother’s cancer battle has now raised over $140,000 to send kids with physical disabilities to Easter Seals camps — and it’s still growing.

Now in its 12th year and rebranded as the King Proud Charity Golf Challenge, the event has expanded its impact through the launch of the Morning Youth Grant — a new initiative from the King Chamber of Commerce that supports young entrepreneurs in King Township. Named in honour of the founder’s late father, a longtime volunteer and township councilor, the grant provides financial assistance and mentorship to help local youth turn big ideas into action.

Together, they explore the history of the tournament, the legacy of family and service, and how one day on the golf course is shaping a brighter future for the next generation.

💬 Topics Covered:

• The personal story behind the tournament’s founding
• The impact of Easter Seals and youth camp experiences
• Honouring a father’s legacy through the Morning Youth Grant
• Supporting entrepreneurship and leadership in King Township
• What’s new for the 2025 King Proud Charity Golf Challenge
• How listeners can get involved, donate, or participate

📌 Learn more:

• King Proud Charity Golf Challenge: www.charitygolfchallenge.ca
• Morning Youth Grant: www.kingchamber.ca/kingproud

Support the show

Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

Send us Fan Mail

🎧 Episode Description:

In this episode of Bradford Banter, host Natasha Philpott sits down with Jen Turner—Bradford resident, book lover, and founder of the Bradford Silent Book Club. Jen shares how a simple idea, sparked by a desire for connection and a love of reading, grew into a community offering calm, conversation-optional gatherings for readers of all kinds.

We chat about what exactly a Silent Book Club is, how to join, and why it’s the perfect way to meet new people without the small talk. Jen also gives us a peek into her work with YMCA Canada, her current read, and why a park bench might be your new favourite reading spot.

📍 Bradford Silent Book Club meets every third Saturday at Fuller Heights Park (Deadman’s Hill), 1:00–2:30pm — weather permitting.
📬 To get in touch or ask a question, email [email protected]
📱 Follow along on Instagram: @BWGSilentBookClub

Support the show

Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.

Send us Fan Mail

In this episode of Bradford Banter, host Natasha Philpott sits down with local entrepreneur Frank Desario, owner of Legends Barbershop in downtown Bradford.

Frank shares the story behind the shop, the evolving art of barbering, and why Legends has become more than just a place for a fresh cut—it’s a hub for conversation, connection, and local pride.

Whether you're a regular in the barber chair or just curious about what makes a small-town business thrive, this episode is full of warmth, laughs, and inspiration.

Check out Legends Barbershop online at: www.legendsbarbershop.ca

Support the show

Disclaimer: Bradford Banter Podcast

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed on the Bradford Banter Podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations, employers, or sponsors.

All content provided on this podcast is for entertainment and informational purposes only. The hosts and producers make no representations as to the accuracy or completeness of any information shared and will not be liable for any errors or omissions, or for any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its use.

Listener discretion is advised. Some episodes may contain language or themes not suitable for all audiences.

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to hold the hosts or guests liable for any offense caused or decisions made based on the content discussed.