Welcome back to another edition of What Barrie’s Talking About — the podcast that digs into the stories shaping our city and the people who call it home.

This week, we’re talking winter weather buzz, local leadership, a beloved seasonal tradition, and the Barrie Colts’ rise to the top of their division.

Here’s what’s inside this episode:

There’s been plenty of chatter this week about a possible polar vortex heading our way — and with colder temps and snow rolling in, some folks were bracing for the worst.

But before anyone panics, Barrie 360’s Ian MacLennan checked in with our go-to climatologist David Phillips, who isn’t convinced we need to sound the alarm… at least not yet. He breaks down what a polar vortex actually is, why the term gets tossed around so often, and what we should realistically expect as winter approaches.

Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall sat down with Ian MacLennan to look back at his first three years in office — from the biggest accomplishments to the challenges that came with steering the city through growth, change, and some unpredictable moments.

He talks openly about the work council has tackled so far, what still needs to be done, and what he hopes to focus on heading into the final year of his term. It’s a candid look at the direction Barrie is headed and the leadership guiding it.

One of the region’s most beloved seasonal traditions marks a major milestone this year, as First Light celebrates its 25th anniversary at Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons.

Mikaela Lefaive joins the show to share the story behind how the event first began, how it has grown over the years, and why it continues to draw thousands of visitors with its candlelit pathways, music, and cultural programming.

Whether you’re a longtime attendee or thinking of going for the first time, this year promises something special.

The Barrie Colts have shaken off their slow start and are now sitting firmly at the top of the OHL’s Central Division, six points ahead of North Bay.

Barrie 360’s Julius Hern connects again with analyst Gene Pereira to talk about what’s been clicking for the team, what’s changed since those early struggles, and what fans can expect as the season continues. With momentum on their side, the Colts are becoming one of the teams to watch.

Listen to the Full Episode

You can hear the full conversations in this week’s episode of What Barrie’s Talking About, available wherever you get your podcasts or at Barrie360.com. If you enjoy the show, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so others in the community can find it too.

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