On this episode of On the Way Home, Emmy Kelly is joined by Jacob Gorenkoff, founder of Homeward Public Affairs, and Kimberley Meijer, a consultant known for her ability to turn complex data into clear, compelling stories. Together, they explore how housing and homelessness leaders can navigate new national initiatives, communicate their impact effectively, and build strong partnerships across sectors. This episode offers practical insights for anyone working to create more inclusive, sustainable housing solutions.

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In this episode, Emmy speaks with Marie-Josée Houle, Canada’s first Federal Housing Advocate. Recently reappointed, Marie-Josée reflects on the progress and persistent gaps in realizing housing as a human right, drawing on her experience in frontline service, housing co-ops, research, and federal advocacy. She brings sharp insights on issues like encampments, the financialization of housing, and the distinct challenges facing Indigenous communities, always centering the voices of those most impacted by the crisis.

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In this special episode of On the Way Home, Emmy speaks with Blue Door's Construct Expansion leadership and team; Emma Wood, Emma Murgida, and Jarrod Armer who share the story of Construct, a trades-based employment social enterprise that began at Blue Door in York Region and has grown into a national movement creating pathways out of poverty through skilled trades training and employment. As Construct Canada launches, the team reflects on how workforce development and housing stability are deeply connected, and shares how communities across the country can join the movement to build stronger, more inclusive futures for all.

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In this episode of On the Way Home, Emmy Kelly is joined by Tim Richter, President and CEO of the Canadian Alliance to End Homelessness, to explore the big ideas shaping this year’s CAEH National Conference and the next chapter in Canada’s movement to end homelessness. Tim shares insights on the launch of the Homelessness Reduction Innovation Fund, what it will take for Build Canada Homes to make a real impact, and how communities across the country are accelerating progress toward functional zero. Tim reflects on the stories, systems, and leadership driving hope and tangible change across Canada.

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In this episode of On the Way Home, we sit down with Faiz Abhuani, founder of Brique par Brique, to explore how one Montreal neighborhood is reshaping the future of affordable housing. From transforming an old paint factory into homes for dozens of families, to mobilizing millions through community bonds, Faiz shares how co-design, deep listening, and grassroots leadership can create not just buildings, but lasting systems change. Tune in for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation about what happens when communities lead and why housing justice is about more than bricks and mortar.

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Today, Marlene Coffey, CEO of the Ontario Non-Profit Housing Association (ONPHA), talks about how non-profits are key in driving solutions to Ontario’s housing crisis and shares what’s ahead at ONPHA’s annual conference; a province-wide gathering of housing leaders, innovators, advocates, friends, and anyone eager to learn and be part of the solution. With hundreds of members across the province, ONPHA is a powerful voice for affordable housing, and this conversation highlights both the progress made and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. If you care about building stronger communities and want to connect with the people leading the way, this is the conference, and the conversation, you don’t want to miss.

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This week On the Way Home welcomes Phillip Mills, CEO of Habitat for Humanity Waterloo Region. Known for his mix of bold disruption and deep compassion, Phil is leading transformative initiatives like BUILD NOW: Waterloo Region while drawing on leadership experience across health care, housing, and community development. In this conversation, he shares his journey, the lessons he’s learned, and how Habitat is helping shape housing solutions that bring both heart and innovation to the sector.

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Alex Cheng, VP of Programs and Services at Blue Door, joins On the Way Home to share his powerful journey from frontline staff to system builder. With more than a decade of experience, Alex has led Blue Door’s shift toward holistic, health-integrated housing solutions breaking down barriers between emergency shelter, healthcare, and long-term housing. We talk about transitional programs like Abode and INNclusion, the critical role of partnerships, and what it takes to support individuals and families from crisis to stability. Alex’s leadership is thoughtful, grounded, and always in service of intentional, lasting impact.

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In this episode of On the Way Home, we’re joined by Vicky Saygnasith, a proud graduate of Blue Door’s Construct program and a second-term carpentry apprentice with Local 27. Vicky shares her journey from discovering the trades to becoming a strong advocate for equity and inclusion in construction, while raising four children and mastering formwork, welding, and more along the way. With honesty and determination, Vicky shows us what happens when opportunity meets resilience.

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In this episode of On the Way Home, we sit down with Neil Hetherington, CEO of Daily Bread Food Bank, to explore what it takes to lead through complexity, crisis, and systemic challenge. From texting his board chair while nearly sinking in the Atlantic to testifying before Parliament for income security reform, Neil shares the stories, strategies, and beliefs that fuel his work. We dive into the explosive rise in food bank demand, the deep links between housing and hunger, and why long-term solutions like the Canada Disability Benefit are critical. Neil also reflects on the most challenging leadership moment he’s faced, and what keeps him motivated as a lifelong learner and bold advocate for change.

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