In this week's episode, Rosalyn chats with Jennifer Roe, the Executive Director of Folk Alliance International. They talk in depth about the organization's initiatives, including the Folk+ event and the annual Folk Alliance International Conference. The conversation highlights how conferences serve as vital spaces for networking and mutual support, reinforcing the strength and interconnectedness of the folk music community. They also discuss the current challenges that artists—particularly Canadians—face when it comes to U.S. travel and visas, and explore strategies for navigating the process effectively.

Register to attend Folk+, FAI’s online music conference taking place June 17th - 18th, 2025.
The 2025 FAI Conference will take place in New Orleans, Louisiana from January 21st - 25th, 2026. 

Find Folk Alliance International online:
Website
Facebook
Instagram

About Jennifer Roe
Jennifer Roe is the Executive Director of Folk Alliance International (FAI) and the leader of the team and folk music community. Jennifer joined the FAI team in 2013 igniting a passion for folk music. With over a decade of private sector experience, she assumed a pivotal role in leading FAI's staff and contractors and overseeing the day-to-day operations. She plays a key role in orchestrating the international conference. Jennifer's journey began in Washington, DC, where she worked on Capitol Hill for the Majority Leader of the Senate before transitioning to serve on a Presidential campaign. Jennifer channels her political background to advocate for arts and culture at both federal and state levels through her position at FAI. Jennifer is a strong steward of folk music culture and the connections between FAI's members. Her long history with the organization has stabilized operations and funding over her tenure.

______________

If you’re interested in submitting questions for our upcoming episodes, be sure to follow Folk Canada on Instagram where we will be posting our upcoming guests.

Tune in to the latest episodes of the Refolkus Podcast, featuring the latest music releases from Folk Canada members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops.

Presented by Folk Canada

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

In this week’s episode, Rosalyn chats with Andrew Karis, Associate Director of ACTRA RACS. Andrew discusses ACTRA RACS’s role in the music industry, the intricacies of neighboring rights, how streaming has reshaped the landscape and the importance of fair compensation for recording artists. The conversation also highlights advocacy efforts with the Burst Their Bubble campaign, aimed at addressing inequities in the streaming ecosystem and ensuring performers are paid fairly.

Sign up to the Burst Their Bubble campaign and join in on the conversation to help effect change for better streaming rights for performers.

Find ACTRA RACS online:
Website
Facebook
Instagram

About Andrew Karis
For over a decade, Andrew has worked to help recording artists understand and access the rights and royalties available to them in Canada and internationally. During his time with ACTRA RACS, he has held a variety of roles and now serves as Associate Director, overseeing the organization’s day-to-day operations and supporting its ongoing service to performers. His broader experience in the music industry includes working with music union residuals, music supervision, event planning, and performing.

______________

If you’re interested in submitting questions for our upcoming episodes, be sure to follow Folk Canada on Instagram where we will be posting our upcoming guests.

Tune in to the latest episodes of the Refolkus Podcast, featuring the latest music releases from Folk Canada members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops.

Presented by Folk Canada

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

In this week’s episode, Rosalyn speaks with Troy Greencorn about the growing impact of climate change on music festivals, with a focus on the Stan Rogers Folk Festival. Troy shares firsthand accounts of extreme weather disrupting festival operations and reflects on the urgent need for resilience and adaptation in the face of these challenges. He underscores the vital role of community support in sustaining cultural events and urges other festivals to take proactive steps to prepare for climate-related risks.

This year’s Stan Rogers Festival will take place July 21st - 27th and you can get your tickets here.

Find Stan Rogers Folk Festival online:

Website

Facebook

About Troy Greencorn

Troy has spent much of his career working in culture-based economic and tourism-based community development. He is also the founder/producer of the Stan Rogers Folk Festival, now into its 28th year. "Stanfest", as it has come to be known, is an international songwriter's festival that presents a roster of over 50 accomplished artists/acts from a wide range of genres. The event is hosted annually in Canso, Nova Scotia. Troy is also the Executive Director of the deCoste Performing Arts Centre in Pictou, Nova Scotia. This 400-seat facility, which presents over 100 events each year. The theatre primarily presents music, but also theatre, comedy, film and other offerings. 

______________

If you’re interested in submitting questions for our upcoming episodes, be sure to follow Folk Canada on Instagram where we will be posting our upcoming guests.

Tune in to the latest episodes of the Refolkus Podcast, featuring the latest music releases from Folk Canada members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops.

Presented by Folk Canada

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

In this week’s episode, Rosalyn chats with music publicist Beth Cavanagh about the evolving world of music publicity. They dive into what makes an artist bio stand out, how to build strong media and fan relationships, and why realistic goals and patience are essential for long-term success. Beth also shares actionable tips for artists looking to promote themselves more effectively and insight into how a publicist’s role continues to shift in today’s industry.

Be sure to check out ‘A Banjoist’s Guide To Marketing with Chris Coole’, a Refolkus episode from the archives that is a great companion to this discussion.

Find Beth Cavanagh:

Website

Instagram

About Beth Cavanagh

Beth Cavanagh is a seasoned music publicist and founder of What’s The Story?, a boutique publicity company launched in 2017 to champion new talent, reconnect established artists with the evolving media landscape, and, above all, for the love of music. Her client roster has included acclaimed artists such as Aysanabee, Caveboy, Celeigh Cardinal, Cowboy Junkies, Good Lovelies, Joel Plaskett, Leela Gilday, Mimi O’Bonsawin, Prozzäk, Sarah Slean, and Skydiggers, as well as events like the Muskoka Music Festival. Her campaigns have secured placements on CBC’s Q, The Toronto Star, Exclaim!, and national TV, cementing her reputation as a trusted voice in Canadian music PR. Beth is also a dedicated advocate for professional development in the music industry. She has shared her expertise as a speaker and panelist at events including Folk Alliance International, Breakout West, Folk Music Ontario, Nova Scotia Music Week, and NOMFA. She is currently a board member of the Mariposa Folk Foundation and has served as a mentor for emerging professionals through organizations like Manitoba Music, Metalworks Institute and is a FACTOR Juror. Always at the forefront of Canada’s evolving music scene, Beth brings warmth, strategy, and deep industry knowledge to every artist story she helps tell.

______________

If you’re interested in submitting questions for our upcoming episodes, be sure to follow Folk Canada on Instagram where we will be posting our upcoming guests.

Tune in to the latest episodes of the Refolkus Podcast, featuring the latest music releases from Folk Canada members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops.

Presented by Folk Canada

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

This week, Rosalyn chats with Mohawk folk and soul artist Logan Staats. Logan reflects on some of the pivotal moments that have shaped his career, as well as his transformative time spent in Nashville, where he focused on writing new songs and honing his craft. He shares how sobriety, family, and a deep-rooted connection to his community help keep him grounded. Plus, he offers a glimpse of what’s ahead on his much-anticipated new album, set to be released later this year.

Find Logan Staats online:

Website & Upcoming Shows

Instagram

Facebook

TikTok

About Logan Staats

Mohawk folk and soul musician Logan Staats began as a diamond in the rough on the streets of Brantford, Ontario. He had no formal musical training, just a good ear and raw lyrical talent. He played the local circuit for years before his 2015 debut release ‘Goodbye Goldia’, an unvarnished yet hard hitting folk album. He went on to win CTV’s ‘The Launch’ in 2018, gaining commercial success and touring across North America and Europe. But traveling the world can really open your eyes to what's going on right at home, and the fight for indigenous sovereignty has become a focal point for Staats in recent years. It all intermingles with the music; the passion, the rage, the love, and most of all the healing. He's making roadtrippin' music for those traveling 'the red road'; a path towards reconnecting and relearning indigenous ways. This is the philosophy behind his sophomore album ‘A Light In The Attic’, released 2023. These songs are a healing salve, contemplatively composed and offered to listeners in need of comfort. Nowadays, he is gearing up for his newest release, a soulful americana album set to be released later this year.

______________

If you’re interested in submitting questions for our upcoming episodes, be sure to follow Folk Canada on Instagram where we will be posting our upcoming guests.

Tune in to the latest episodes of the Refolkus Podcast, featuring the latest music releases from Folk Canada members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops.

Presented by Folk Canada

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

In this week’s episode, Rosalyn is joined by Tamara Lindeman of The Weather Station. Tamara reflects on how climate grief has shaped her music, a theme that emerged with her previous album Ignorance. She discusses her latest record, Humanhood, which explores themes of personal disconnection and healing, while continuing to resonate with the emotional weight of climate grief and broader political tensions. Tamara also shares her perspective on the current political climate and its impact on touring, speaking candidly about the emotional burden of climate change—particularly on younger generations—and offering thoughtful insights into how artists can balance their roles as advocates. Overall, it’s a powerful and timely conversation about art’s role in expressing complex emotions, creating connection, and sparking action in the face of an uncertain future.

Tamara’s recommendations for climate organizations, thinkers and speakers include: 350.org, Environmental Defence, Nature Conservancy Canada, Music Declares Emergency, Bill McKibben and Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson.

Buy, download or listen to The Weather Station’s latest record, Humanhood.

Find The Weather Station online:
Website & Upcoming Shows
Instagram
Facebook

About The Weather Station
The Weather Station — the project of Toronto based songwriter Tamara Lindeman — returns with new album Humanhood on January 17th via Fat Possum Records.  The last few years have seen The Weather Station release two albums: the career defining Ignorance (2021) and its ethereal, mostly live recording companion piece, How Is It That I Should Look At The Stars (2022). In that time, The Weather Station have gone on to headline tours across North America and Europe, play major festivals, and perform on the televised Austin City Limits as well as Jimmy Kimmel Live. Ignorance was named Best New Music (Pitchfork), and landed in year-end Top 10 lists from The New Yorker (#1), Spin, New York Times, Uncut, Pitchfork, The Guardian, and many others.  Called "a heartbroken masterpiece" in The Guardian, the record was a complex evocation of climate grief that struck a chord worldwide. As a writer, Lindeman is known for her detail. “Her writing can feel … like the collected epiphanies from a lifetime of observing” (Pitchfork).  Over the course of six albums, her music has moved from home recorded, mostly acoustic folk to the “ornate act of world building” (New Yorker) that was Ignorance.  The throughline, though, is a focus on ideas; her lyrics walk the line between the personal and the conceptual, forever tying small moments to larger metaphysical quandaries.  Nominated for three Juno Awards, a Socan Songwriting Award, and shortlisted for the Polaris Prize, her albums have made a mark both critically and conceptually.

______________

If you’re interested in submitting questions for our upcoming episodes, be sure to follow Folk Canada on Instagram where we will be posting our upcoming guests.

Tune in to the latest episodes of the Refolkus Podcast, featuring the latest music releases from Folk Canada members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops.

Presented by Folk Canada

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

In this week’s episode, Rosalyn chats with Devin Latimer, an organic chemist specializing in green chemistry and the Artistic Director of Trout Forest Music Festival. They explore how community festivals can become powerful tools for climate action in that they offer unique opportunities to engage the public, spark dialogue, and promote environmental awareness. They also discuss the need for stronger policy support, sustainable funding, and delve into some lessons learned from climate-impacted festivals. At its core, the conversation is a call to empower communities and individuals to take meaningful action toward a more sustainable future, offering both inspiration and practical steps forward.

For more of Devin’s work, you can check out his presentation titled ‘Green Chemistry, Energy and Climate Conversations’ that he gave as part of Folk Canada’s Culture in Climate Conversations sessions at the 2025 Folk Alliance International Conference.

Find Devin Latimer online:

Website & Upcoming Shows

Instagram

Trout Forest Music Festival

About Devin Latimer

Devin Latimer is a faculty member in chemistry at the University of Winnipeg focusing on green organic chemistry and environmental communications, Artistic Director of Trout Forest Music Festival in northwestern Ontario, and a founding performer with Winnipeg music collectives Leaf Rapids and Juno award winners Nathan Music Co.

______________

If you’re interested in submitting questions for our upcoming episodes, be sure to follow Folk Canada on Instagram where we will be posting our upcoming guests.

Tune in to the latest episodes of the Refolkus Podcast, featuring the latest music releases from Folk Canada members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops.

Presented by Folk Canada

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

In this week's episode, Rosalyn catches up with Acadian singer-songwriter Lisa LeBlanc for a fun and wide-ranging conversation about what it means to put on a truly compelling show. They talk about Lisa’s bold performance style and aesthetic, her recent collaboration with an artistic director to create visually striking live shows, and how pushing creative boundaries keeps things fresh. Lisa also shares how her love for traditional music continues to shape both her sound and her presence on stage. Lisa also reflects on her musical journey, from her early days in the industry to her recent symphonic album, Live avec l’Orchestre symphonique de Québec.

Find Lisa LeBlanc online:

Website & Upcoming Shows

Instagram

TikTok

Bandcamp

About Lisa LeBlanc

Not long after earning major praise at the Festival international de la chanson de Granby, Lisa LeBlanc unveiled her greatly acclaimed, self-titled debut album in 2012. She then released Highways, Heartaches and Time Well Wasted in 2014, followed two years later by the Polaris short-listed Why You Wanna Leave Runaway Queen?. She opted to sing in English on these last two efforts, thus expanding her creative potential and reaching out to new audiences. Those three records sold over 140,000 copies. A few years later, with a new background as a music producer, she returned in 2022 with the highly anticipated Chiac Disco, which garnered critical and public acclaim, as well as another spot on the Polaris Music Prize shortlist and a Juno nomination. The success of the album led to several European tours, as well as a tour of the United States. During the same period, she gave close to 100 concerts across Canada. The renowned Acadian singer-songwriter returned on October 11th, 2024 with Live avec l’Orchestre symphonique de Québec, an album recorded at the Grand Théâtre de Québec during an extravagant orchestral show.

______________

If you’re interested in submitting questions for our upcoming episodes, be sure to follow Folk Canada on Instagram where we will be posting our upcoming guests.

Tune in to the latest episodes of the Refolkus Podcast, featuring the latest music releases from Folk Canada members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops.

Presented by Folk Canada

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

In this week's episode, Rosalyn chats with multi-talented artist Tommyphyll. They discuss his journey as an Afrobeats innovator and his signature fusion of sounds, which he calls Afrodiem. Tommyphyll shares insights into his creative process and the importance of connecting with his audience online — emphasizing quality content as a driver of social media and audience growth. He also reflects on how he navigates the balance between creativity and burnout.

Tommyphyll also introduces his new EP, 'Love Me Like the First Day,' which explores the nuances of love and connection.

Find Tommyphyll online:

Become an ‘Inphylltrator’ & Join the Mailing List

Website & Upcoming Shows

Instagram

TikTok

About Tommyphyll

Born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, and now based in Canada, Tommyphyll is an Afrobeat innovator crafting a sound that transcends borders. Coining the term Afrodiem to define his unique fusion of Afrobeats, 80s synth-pop, and classical music, Tommyphyll blends futuristic electronic textures with deep-rooted tribal percussion, creating anthems of empowerment, unity, and self-discovery. Since his professional debut in 2018, Tommyphyll has remained an independent force, producing all his own music and pushing creative boundaries. His 2020 self-produced debut album laid the foundation for a sonic journey that has taken him to Multiple Live performances, including a standout halftime show at the Winnipeg Sea Bears before an audience of 7,000. His ability to captivate crowds with high-energy performances and thought-provoking lyrics has solidified him as an artist to watch. More than just an artist, Tommyphyll is a cultural bridge, weaving together his Yoruba heritage with modern and futuristic influences. His lyrics, often introspective and spiritually conscious, speak to resilience, joy, and the unbreakable will of the human spirit. He envisions his fanbase—INPHYLLTRATORS—as a warrior family, a movement of individuals who find strength in music and their joint desire to break barriers in spaces they have been denied. His music is more than sound; it is a call to action, an invitation to dream, move, and conquer.

______________

If you’re interested in submitting questions for our upcoming episodes, be sure to follow Folk Canada on Instagram where we will be posting our upcoming guests.

Tune in to the latest episodes of the Refolkus Podcast, featuring the latest music releases from Folk Canada members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops.

Presented by Folk Canada

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

*WARNING: This episode touches on themes of mental health struggles and sexual assault. If these are sensitive subjects to you, please listen with care*

In this week's episode, Rosalyn chats with Jessica Pearson as she reflects on the whirlwind that followed her unexpected moment of viral fame and the emotional fallout that came with it. They explore the double-edged sword of virality, the toll it can take on mental health, and how humor, vulnerability, and community became Jessica’s path to healing. Jessica also shares how the experience has reshaped her relationship with social media.

This conversation is a moving look at the resilience required to be an artist today — and the beauty that comes from holding space for one another in both the good and the hard times.

Find Jessica Pearson and the East Wind online:

Website & Upcoming Shows

Instagram

Facebook

TikTok

About Jessica Pearson and the East Wind

Like sirens calling from an ancient shore, the haunting three-part harmonies of Jessica Pearson & The East Wind will bind you in a timeless folkloric spell. Alchemizing roots, classic country, Americana and Celtic soundscapes, the trio spin tales of outlaw heroics, matriarchal power, resistance and resilience, and the unrelenting beauty of becoming who you are. With a nomination for "Performer of the Year" at Folk Music Ontario Awards 2024 and an upcoming two-part album produced by JUNO-winner Hill Kourkoutis featuring an all-women team, JPEW is rising up to offer a powerful musical battle cry against the status quo.

______________

If you’re interested in submitting questions for our upcoming episodes, be sure to follow Folk Canada on Instagram where we will be posting our upcoming guests.

Tune in to the latest episodes of the Refolkus Podcast, featuring the latest music releases from Folk Canada members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops.

Presented by Folk Canada

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn