Neighbour Studio

In this episode of Conversations with Neighbours, host Myles Doak sits down with Marie, founder and owner of Kookla Soap Co., a small business based in Newmarket dedicated to creating handcrafted artisan soaps and body care products.

Marie shares the story behind Kookla Soap Co., her passion for natural skincare, and the craftsmanship that goes into every product. Using the traditional cold process soap-making method, her soaps are carefully created in small batches and formulated without palm oil, parabens, soy, or other harsh chemicals.

The conversation explores entrepreneurship, sustainable product creation, and the growing demand for thoughtfully made, natural body care products. Marie also discusses the importance of quality ingredients, customer trust, and building a business rooted in care and intention.

In this episode of Why We Recommend Them, Myles Doak sits down with Ariana Laxdal, owner and manager of The George, to talk about hospitality, leadership, and what it means to build a business that becomes a community favourite.

Ariana shares her journey in the restaurant industry, the values that guide her approach to customer service, and the importance of creating memorable experiences for every guest who walks through the door. From managing a successful restaurant to fostering a strong team culture, she discusses the challenges and rewards of operating one of Newmarket's well-known dining destinations.

In this powerful episode of Ancestral Voices: We Belong, host Kim Wheatley sits down with Waneek Horn-Miller, a Mohawk woman from Kahnawake Mohawk Territory, Olympian, advocate, and one of Canada's most influential Indigenous voices.

Waneek reflects on her remarkable journey from surviving a near-fatal injury during the Oka Crisis to becoming a member and former co-captain of Canada's Olympic women's water polo team. Through resilience, determination, and a deep connection to her culture, she has transformed personal adversity into a lifelong commitment to leadership, reconciliation, and community building.

The conversation explores the importance of sport, wellness, and education in empowering Indigenous youth, as well as Waneek's ongoing work advocating for Indigenous communities, women in leadership, and meaningful reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.

Drawing on her experiences as an athlete, speaker, and cultural advocate, Waneek shares powerful insights on overcoming barriers, building self-esteem, and creating opportunities for future generations. At the heart of the discussion is a message of understanding, connection, and the importance of listening to one another as we work toward a stronger future together.

Website: https://waneekhornmiller.com/home 

Instagram: @Waneek

What does it take to build a business that's rooted in trust, relationships, and a genuine commitment to helping people?

In this episode of Why We Recommend Them, we sit down with Brian Lavoie to discuss his journey, the experiences that shaped his approach to business, and the values that continue to guide him today.

We talk about the importance of building lasting relationships, earning trust within the community, and why putting people first has been a key factor in his success. Brian shares lessons learned throughout his career, the challenges he's overcome, and what drives him to continue serving those around him.

At Neighbour Media, we have the opportunity to meet incredible local business owners every day. Brian is a great example of someone who leads with integrity, values genuine connections, and is committed to making a positive impact in the community.

That's why we recommend him.

What does it take to build a real estate brokerage that agents genuinely want to be part of?

In this episode of Why We Recommend Them, we sit down with Mike Cartwright, founder of Main Street Realty, to talk about building a community-focused brokerage and creating an environment where agents can grow successful businesses while staying true to their values.

We discuss Mike's journey, what makes Main Street Realty different from traditional brokerages, the importance of culture and leadership, and why local relationships continue to be at the heart of their success.

At Neighbour Media, we have the opportunity to meet incredible local business owners every day. Mike and the team at Main Street Realty are a great example of a business that leads with integrity, supports its people, and makes a positive impact in the communities they serve.

That's why we recommend them.

In this episode of Conversations with Neighbours, host Myles Doak sits down with Jacob from York Pride to discuss the organization's mission of fostering inclusion, belonging, and celebration across York Region.

As Ontario's fifth-largest Pride festival, York Pride serves a diverse region of more than 1.2 million residents across nine municipalities. The organization works year-round to create events, programs, and educational initiatives that celebrate diversity, combat misconceptions, and build stronger, more connected communities.

Jacob shares the story behind York Pride's growth, the importance of creating safe and welcoming spaces for 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, and what attendees can look forward to as the organization celebrates its 25th anniversary. From family-friendly activities to youth, adult, and senior-focused programming, York Pride continues to create opportunities for people of all backgrounds to come together, learn, and celebrate.

The conversation highlights the power of community, visibility, and authentic connection in building a more inclusive future for everyone in York Region.

York Pride 2026 takes place on Saturday, June 13, 2026, in Newmarket, Ontario. The festival runs from 10:00 a.m. to midnight at the Newmarket Riverwalk Commons, with the Trans March and Pride Parade stepping off down Main Street at 4:00 p.m.

For more information, visit: https://yorkpride.ca/

In this episode of Ancestral Voices: We Belong, host Kim Wheatley sits down with acclaimed Oji-Cree singer-songwriter Aysanabee.

Known for blending powerful storytelling with atmospheric folk and indie sounds, Aysanabee reflects on his musical journey and the release of his debut album, Watin, which introduced audiences across Canada to his deeply personal songwriting and distinctive voice.

The conversation explores identity, creativity, and the importance of sharing Indigenous stories through music. Aysanabee also discusses the impact of earning national recognition, including his success at the Juno Awards, and what it means to represent Indigenous voices on a larger stage.

Through honesty and reflection, this episode highlights the connection between music, ancestry, and belonging.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_aysanabee_/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AysanabeeOfficial/ 

Website: https://www.aysanabee.com/

In this episode of Conversations with Neighbours, host Myles Doak sits down with Renay Partridge, founder of On the Wagon Mocktails.

Founded from Renay’s own journey in long-term sobriety, On the Wagon Mocktails was created with a simple but powerful mission: to make sure people who choose not to drink still feel included in every celebration. Recognizing that alcohol-free options are often overlooked, Renay built a mobile mocktail bar focused on premium, handcrafted drinks designed with the same care and creativity as traditional cocktails.

The conversation explores entrepreneurship, sobriety, inclusion, and how thoughtful hospitality can help create more welcoming experiences for everyone. Renay also shares the inspiration behind the business and why offering intentional alcohol-free options matters now more than ever.

In this episode of Ancestral Voices: We Belong, host Kim Wheatley sits down with James Vukelich Kaagegaabaw, a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Ojibwe, international speaker, digital creator, and author of The Seven Generations and the Seven Grandfather Teachings.

Drawing from decades of work with elders and language keepers across North America through the Ojibwe Language Dictionary Project, James shares powerful insights on the deep connection between language, culture, and identity. His work centers on revitalizing Indigenous language and helping others understand its role in shaping how we see the world.

The conversation explores the meaning of mino-bimaadiziwin, living “the good life”, and how these teachings can guide individuals and communities toward balance, respect, and connection.

With over 20 years of experience facilitating language tables, consulting on cultural programs, and speaking internationally, James offers a thoughtful and inspiring perspective on preserving knowledge and living with intention.

James Vukelich Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesvukelich/

In this episode of Conversations with Neighbours, host Myles Doak sits down with Michelle Planche to talk about the upcoming Newmarket Craft Beer Festival.

The conversation highlights what attendees can expect from the festival, including local craft breweries, community atmosphere, live entertainment, and the growing appreciation for craft beer culture in the region. Michelle shares how the event brings people together while supporting local businesses and creating a vibrant experience for residents and visitors alike.

From discovering unique brews to celebrating community connections, this episode explores why the Newmarket Craft Beer Festival has become a highly anticipated local event.