Kristan Fisher is a Registered Massage Therapist therapist and local business owner in Laurentian Valley who knows a thing or two about the body and will help you work out the kinks in all the right areas. Kristan is also a surrogate, selflessly helping those complete their families and is encouraging and educating other women to do the same.

Kristan talks about what inspired her to become a surrogate, how the process works, what her husband thinks about her decision, how she separates herself from the emotional attachment, and so much more!

This week’s podcast has been sponsored by:

Book Amanda Talker Media to help your business grow through social media, photography and brand identity by checking out her extensive portfolio at https://amandatalker.media/

With over 20 years of combined experience in offering counselling, parenting support and information, vocational rehabilitation services, and trauma treatment, Forging Forward counsellors are here to help you move forward in your journey. Reach out for a consultation to reach to a counsellor today (service dog friendly!) https://forgingforward.ca

Century 21 Aspire Realty is the gold standard in Canadian real estate. Search current listings, get insight into a particular neighbourhood, find out how much your home is worth and more! Visit https://aspirerealty.c21.ca to speak to one of their knowledgeable real estate agents today.

There's always something to do in Laurentian Valley! Check out their local community calendar for featured events in November: https://calendar.lvtownship.ca/default/Month?StartDate=11/01/2021

At only 16 years old, Sierra Levesque has achieved what many talented small musicians accomplish in their lifetime. She has already performed live at over 400 shows, performs the National Anthem for the Ottawa Senators and the Ottawa Redblacks CFL team, and has opened up for some well known rock tribute bands, including The AC/DC Show, Rumours and the Liverpool 4.

Sierra is here to tell you that rock and roll is not dead and she intends on keeping it alive in mainstream music, while also showing that female-fronted bands rule!

Be sure to check out Sierra and her band on Saturday, October 30 at Festival Hall, as they open up for Destroyer (Canada’s KISS tribute band). Grab your tickets here: https://festhall.ca/event/3795577/534605065/kiss-destroyer-live-with-special-guest-sierra-levesque

This week’s episode has been sponsored by Bombshells Tattoo Studio. You can find the Bombshell girls in their new location in downtown Pembroke! Book your next tattoo or piercing appointment by emailing [email protected]

Dasha Smolentseva’s original dream of designing and food establishments ended up coming true, as she and her partner Sebastien Armand went into business together opening up Artizen Kombucha and North Folk Cafe. They first joined forces to create Agape Gardens, permaculture gardens and homestead, eventually specializing and creating Artizen Kombucha - a thriving small batch kombucha company in Perth.

Despite her not being a coffee drinker, she also wanted to create a friendly and customer-based environment, North Folk Cafe, where they serve locally roasted espresso, handcrafted gelato and desserts (including organic, gluten free, plant based options). 

Hear about Dasha’s incredible journey to Canada and finding herself being a single mother, putting herself through school and becoming a successful entrepreneur and celebrating numerous achievements and accomplishments, including receivinn the Breakthrough Business Award of the Year 2020 by the Perth Chamber of Commerce.

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Small Business Centre helps entrepreneurs plannning to open or have an existing business with the information you need to get your business going and keep it running smoothly and profitably. Learn more at https://smallbizcentre.ca

Community Employment Services Perth is a free-of-charge link to the Lanark County workforce. Register for their free upcoming workshops at: https://www.algonquincollege.com/perth-employment/event/ces-workshop-calendar-october-2021/

Valley Heartland supports businesses within Lanark County + North Leeds by providing entrepreneurs with access to funding, training and mentorship. Learn more at https://www.valleycfdc.com

The Town of Perth has a lot to offer — from recreation and sports to community services, they have it covered. Check out their calendar of events http://calendar.perth.ca/default/Month

As we approach Halloween, many of us enjoy watching Halloween classics like Hocus Pocus, or The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. Those that are seeking more of spooky thrill can find haunted guided tours right in their hometown. Susan Code McDougall has been conducting guided tours for over 25 years and know some errie haunted spots in the Perth area. Get into the Halloween spirit as we dive into some spooky tales and learn about familiar buildings in the Town of Perth where ghost sightings have been reported.

This week’s episode is sponsored by: Vendors of the Valley’s Fall Haul vendor market, taking place October 22, 2021. Get your tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/fall-haul-market-tickets-170160597929

Greek goddesses have been around since the ancient times, but what if I were to tell you that there’s a local modern day Aphrodite who teaches us about sacred pleasure and looks at sex in a larger context, demystifiying and destigmizing the shame around it. Meg Williams, sacred pleasure and embodiment teacher shares with us how to ignite your pleasure through sacred sexuality, experience sacred moments of pleasure in everyday life, different types of orgasms, what “orgasmic dancing” is… and so much more! You can learn more about Meg and her programs here: https://www.megwilliams.org

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Book Amanda Talker Media to help your business grow through social media, photography and brand identity by checking out her extensive portfolio at https://amandatalker.media/

The Township of Madawaska Valley is proud to support and promote their local businesses. Shop small and local businesses in Madawaska Valley and help support your local community: https://www.madawaskavalley.ca

Agnew Renovations offers quality home renovations at affordable prices.

If you want honest, affordable, quality work give Steve a call at 613-639-5971 or check them out on Facebook to see their recent transformation projects!

Labour Market Group Renfrew/Lanark County’s new LMI HelpDesk service is now available on their website to answer your Labour Market Information requests and questions related to occupation outlooks, industry trends, average wages, etc. Access the LMI help desk link here: https://www.algonquincollege.com/renfrewlanark/lmi-helpdesk/

For years, Blanche Mirault has been a savour for many who are going through hard times in the Pembroke area. She also operates her community-oriented not-for-profit store in Pembroke, Got you in Mind, where she collects donations, everything from gently used clothes to household items to provide to those in need.

Blanche is also committed to ensuring that individuals dealing with their own mental health needs have a safe and friendly space, while also being a proud supporter of the Robbie Dean Centre. Got You in Mind is relocating to a new location and they could use some help moving. If you are able to volunteer your time, please call Blanche at 613-735-8045.

Carla Hogg is the Founder and CEO of Gentle Fawn, a women’s clothing company that designs feminine, effortless pieces perfect for your everyday wardrobe.  Carla leads Gentle Fawn’s overall product direction and company vision with a specific focus on empowering women. From clothing details, to growing women’s careers into leadership, Carla’s passion to support women extends to her staff, daughters, and foundations like One Girl Can, Mama’s for Mama’s, and Plan International. As a former recipient of BIV 40 under 40, business leader, mother, partner, and friend, Carla has a natural determination to balance it all.

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

There’s still time left to get your tickets to the Vendors of the Valley Fall Haul vendor market, taking place October 22, 2021. Register for the market here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/fall-haul-market-tickets-170160597929

Get 10% off your first Bundle of Joy pregnancy

subscription box + receive a free Baby box at the end of your subscripton using code OVBB at checkout: https://bundleofjoybox.ca

Ambitious shop owner, market creator, small biz educator and lover of craft markets, Emily Arbour, has created a platform and home for makers, whether she’s featuring their products in her store, showcasing them on her social media pages, or giving them a safe space to meet and chat with other Canadian makers in her private Facebook group. Emily is also the queen of craft markets, hosting and organizing them year round, also mastering the ins and outs of hosting a successful virtual market experience.

Cheerfully Made’s next holiday market is from November 4-7, where you can shop directly through her website from the comfort of your home (fingers crossed the next one will be in person!)

Thank you to our episode sponsors:

Small Business Centre helps entrepreneurs plannning to open or have an existing business with the information you need to get your business going and keep it running smoothly and profitably. Learn more at https://smallbizcentre.ca

Community Employment Services Perth is a free-of-charge link to the Lanark County workforce. Register for their free upcoming workshops at: https://www.algonquincollege.com/perth-employment/event/ces-workshop-calendar-october-2021/

Valley Heartland supports businesses within Lanark County + North Leeds by providing entrepreneurs with access to funding, training and mentorship. Learn more at https://www.valleycfdc.com

Plan Your Visit with the Mississippi Mills Fun Guide. You will find natural, cultural, and heritage assets combined with friendly people, unique shops and amazing restaurants will fill your visit with incredible experiences: https://www.mississippimills.ca/en/explore-and-play/explore-mississippi-mills.aspx

You’ve heard his enthusiasm on the airwaves, seen him out and about at public events, and recognize his familiar voice as the bingo announcer on 104.9 myFM - yes, I’m talking about Andrew Dick. The incredibly confident, charismatic and personable friend we all know and love, has unfortunately battled his fair share of demons, but successfully managed to overcome them.

Andrew is a survivor of alcohol addiction and Is sharing his story so that he might help others who are struggling. He also has a few side hustles he manages on top of working as an account executive at our local radio station.

If you would like to talk to Andrew about his journey to sobriety or would like to book him for a speaking engagement, you can email him at [email protected]

This week’s episode is sponsored by:

Registration is now open for Vendors of the Valley Fall Haul vendor market, taking place October 22, 2021. Register for the market here: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/fall-haul-market-tickets-170160597929

In the beautiful downtown core of Arnprior, you can find elements of the Downtown Spa with its perfectly blended chic décor, a relaxing environment and a full-fledged team ready to welcome and provide you with an enjoyable experience that will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed.

2021 Reader’s Choice Awards platinum winner for best hair salon, spa, and esthetic services, Michelle Nicholas is a proud business supporter who teams up with other local businesses to feature their products in her spa, gushing about one particular woman in business and friend who has supported her dreams, encouraging her to expand and build on them!

This week’s podcast has been sponsored by:

The Town of Arnprior - see how they can help grow your business by visiting www.arnprior.ca

Amanda Talker Media is the Ottawa Valley’s most trusted branding expert. Let Amanda help your business grow through social media, photography and brand identity - check out her portfolio at https://amandatalker.media/

Century 21 Aspire Realty is the gold standard in Canadian real estate. Search current listings, get insight into a particular neighbourhood, find out how much your home is worth and more! Visit https://aspirerealty.c21.ca to speak to one of their knowledgeable real estate agents today.

To manage your business effectively, you need to know how your business is doing financially. Get your books in order - contact the Ledger Lady in Eganville at 613-628-3773.