Connecting the Community

In this engaging podcast, Marj Andre speaks with musicians Shari Tallon and Chris Birkett about their collaboration as The Free Spirits, their latest album 'The Code', and the profound connection between music and nature.

They discuss the importance of mental health, environmental advocacy, and the power of music as a universal language that transcends boundaries.

The conversation also highlights their upcoming performance at the October  5, 2025 Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trust event, emphasizing the role of music in community and personal expression.

Check out these links:

Books

Bruce Chatwin - The Songlines 

The Hidden Life of Trees — Peter Wohlleben

Our Green Heart -  Diana Beresford Kroeger

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre interviews Susan Walmer, the CEO of the Oak Ridges Marine Land Trust, discussing the organization's mission, the significance of the Oak Ridges Moraine, and the upcoming 25th anniversary celebration.

They explore the challenges faced in conservation, the importance of community involvement, and the various opportunities for the public to engage with nature and support the land trust's efforts.

Learn more about the Oak Ridges Moraine Land Trustwww.oakridgesmoraine.org

Register to attend the October 5th Celebration 25th Anniversary | Oakridges Moraine LT

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre interviews Anum Mulla, the Global Youth Strategist with the Charter for Compassion, discussing the upcoming Global Youth Conference for Compassionate Leadership.

They explore Anum's background, the importance of youth engagement, the goals of the conference, and the themes that will be addressed.

The conversation emphasizes the need for compassionate leadership and community building among youth in today's world.

Check it out and register! CFC Global Youth Conference 2025 - Compassionate Leadership for Action & Impact

In this podcast, Marj Andre interviews Rose Hirano, a meditation teacher with a rich background in art.

Rose shares her journey from being a woodblock artist to embracing meditation and teaching it at the Kadampa Meditation Center.

The conversation explores the practical applications of Buddhist teachings in daily life, the inclusivity of meditation practices, and the motivation behind Rose's desire to teach.

Listeners are encouraged to join her upcoming practical meditation course, which aims to help individuals cultivate kindness and mindfulness in their everyday interactions.

Click HERE for information for Rose's course link to the course, starting September 11, 2025 

Here is their web site:

Meditation & Modern Buddhism for Everyone - Kadampa Meditation Centre Canada

In this engaging conversation, Marj Andre speaks with John Holland, founder of the Canadian Institute for Czech Music, about the upcoming performance of Mozart's Don Giovanni.

They explore the opera's themes, its cultural significance, and the unique format of the performance.

Holland shares insights into the enduring appeal of Don Giovanni and the importance of community support for the arts in Richmond Hill.

Performance date - Friday, September 12th, 2025 - 7 pm.  Mozart's Don Giovanni in Concert

The podcast discusses the upcoming book event in Richmond Hill, September 12 & 13, highlighting the extensive selection of books, the organization efforts by volunteers, and the community engagement aspect of the event.

Contact information is on the web site

Areyougoingtobe

In this podcast episode, Dr. Radhika Chawla discusses the importance of eye exams for children, particularly as they return to school.

She explains the differences between adult and child eye exams, the impact of vision on social and academic performance, and the importance of protective eyewear in sports.

The conversation also covers the rise in vision problems among children, the role of contact lenses, and the significance of early detection and preventative measures in maintaining eye health.

www.eyesofrichmondhill.com

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre interviews Jack Bateman, the owner and founder of the Martial Arts Training Center in Richmond Hill.

They discuss the facility's offerings, Jack's journey into martial arts, the challenges faced in opening the center, and the benefits of martial arts for both children and adults.

The conversation also touches on the collaboration with local police, the importance of a dedicated team, and the community engagement through fun events like birthday parties.

Martial Arts Training Centre Richmond Hill 

In this podcast episode, Marj Andre interviews Mark Zimmerman and Janet Martin, the producers of the Canadian production of 'Menopause, The Musical.'

They discuss the storyline, characters, and the musical's history, including its Canadian adaptations.

The conversation also explores audience demographics, reactions, and the cultural diversity of the show's attendees. There are some insights into the impact of the musical on relationships!  Men should attend!

Click HERE for tickets

In this conversation, Marj Andre speaks with Tricia de Boer and Benson Ocen from I Live Again Uganda about their mission to help individuals heal from trauma caused by war and displacement.

They discuss the organization's trauma rehabilitation programs, the impact of gender-based violence, and the importance of community support.

The conversation also highlights the upcoming Healing and Hope Fundraising Gala, aimed at raising awareness and funds for mental health initiatives in Uganda.

Here's the link for the gala, including to order tickets HEALING & HOPE GALA | I Live Again Uganda