Refolkus

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 Joel Plaskett. Joel takes us deep into the making of his latest album, ‘One Real Reveal’ released in 2024. Drawing from his long and varied career in music, he opens up about the creative journey behind making this record — from songwriting and theme development to the hands-on process of analog recording. Joel shares why analog matters to him, both technically and philosophically, and how it shaped the album’s distinct sound. He also reflects on how he balances discipline and inspiration in the studio, offering a candid look at his approach to making music.

Check out ‘One Real Reveal’, the latest album from Joel Plaskett.

Find Joel Plaskett online:

Website & Upcoming Shows

Instagram

Facebook

Bandcamp

About Joel Plaskett

For over three decades, Joel Plaskett has proven himself a spinning wheel of reinvention. The Nova Scotia songwriter's eclectic body of work reveals a restless and playful spirit, always transforming and expanding. Coast-to-coast and the world 'round, Joel has rocked crowds at clubs, festivals and grand old theatres with longtime Emergency bandmates Dave Marsh and Chris Pennell as well as drawn audiences close with intimate acoustic shows, both solo and with his father, Bill. Then there are the special events that have really allowed Joel to reach the rafters, like headlining Toronto’s Massey Hall with everyone in tow, playing the NAC in Ottawa backed by the national orchestra, and warming up huge stages for artists like The Tragically Hip and Paul McCartney. Joel and the Emergency have also been roundly celebrated within the music industry for their work, racking up awards and nominations from the JUNOs, the Polaris Music Prize, the East Coast Music Awards, Music Nova Scotia, and numerous others. For his latest release, the 4-track project One Real Reveal (2024), Plaskett strips his songwriting down to its raw materials, allowing everything in—all the human touches the tape could pick up.

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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, we chat with Elizabeth Rodriguez of OKAN. Elizabeth reflects on the profound impact of her African ancestry on their music and takes us through her journey from classical music to rediscovering her roots in Cuban music and improvisation. She talks about the role of music in driving social change and how her personal experiences inspire her songwriting. Elizabeth also opens up about the challenges of parenting while pursuing a career in the music industry, highlighting the importance of belief, adaptability, and having a solid support system to navigate the ups and downs.

Find OKAN online:

Website & Upcoming Shows

Instagram

TikTok

Facebook

Bandcamp

About OKAN

Charged with the profound power of their African ancestry. OKAN takes their name from the word for heart in the Afro-Cuban religion of Santeria. Fusing these Cuban roots with jazz, folk and global rhythms, OKAN delivers songs about immigration, resistance and joy in Spanish, Yoruba and Spanglish. Hot off their Tiny Desk NPR Alt Latino debut and a tour supporting Grammy-winners Rodrigo y Gabriela, OKAN’s recent release Okantomi was awarded the 2024 Juno Award and included in NPR Alt Latino, Le Monde, and CBC Music’s “Best of 2023” lists. OKAN is co-led by Cuban-born Grammy & Latin-Grammy nominees: violinist and vocalist Elizabeth Rodriguez and her wife, percussionist & vocalist Magdelys Savigne. 

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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, we chat with James McKie and Stefan Read of Pressgang Mutiny, a Toronto-based sea shanty group. James and Stefan discuss the resurgence of sea shanties, their cultural significance, and the evolving landscape of traditional and folk music. They also reflect on navigating trends in traditional music while remaining authentic to their roots. James and Stefan also share a little bit about their upcoming album, 'Departure,' which showcases a blend of traditional and contemporary influences.

Tune into their podcast ‘The Shanty Show’, featuring shanty singers and stories from around the world and sign up here to be notified when their latest album ‘Departure’ is released.

Find Pressgang Mutiny online:

Website & Upcoming Shows

Instagram

Youtube

TikTok

Bandcamp

About Pressgang Mutiny:

Pressgang Mutiny are Toronto's Shantymen, dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what sea shanties and work songs can be. Their performances take audiences on a journey through traditional acapella arrangements, thoughtful instrumental accompaniment, and inspired use of sampling and production - all guaranteed to get the crowd singing along. Over the past ten years, they've performed at festivals across the US, Canada, UK, and Europe. Pressgang Mutiny are currently producing a documentary film exploring the Caribbean roots of shanties and will release their third album, Departure, in Spring 2025.

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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, we chat with Spencer Shewen, the Artistic Director of the Mariposa Folk Festival. Spencer takes us through his journey into the music festival scene, sharing his experiences with both Riverfest Elora and the legendary Mariposa Folk Festival. He offers a behind-the-scenes look at programming the Mariposa festival lineup, sharing his perspectives on how folk music encompasses a wide range of genres beyond traditional definitions and how that shapes his booking decisions. He also provides valuable insights for emerging artists seeking opportunities. The discussion wraps with a glimpse into this summer’s 65th anniversary of Mariposa, with a stacked bill of both returning and new artists.

This year’s Mariposa Folk Festival takes place July 4-6th in Orillia, Ontario - get your tickets here.

Find Mariposa Folk Festival online:

Website

Instagram

TikTok

About Spencer Shewen

Entrusted with the role of Artistic Director of the fabled Mariposa Folk Festival since the fall of 2023, Spencer Shewen is looking forward to an exciting 2025 season, where Mariposa will celebrate it's 65th edition! At the same time, he continues as Creative Director of Riverfest Elora, where he has played an integral role in guiding the festival since 2013. Two of Ontario’s most celebrated festivals! Spencer also sits on the Board of Directors for the Elora Centre for the Arts. Previously, he has held seats on the boards of the River & Sky Festival, the Halifax Pop Explosion, the Hillside Festival, and CFRU 93.3FM. He has also worked as Artistic Director for Waterstock (2017) and 100 Mile Riot (2012, 2013), curated the Fortnight Music Series (2007–2016), and acted as label manager for SunnyLane Records (2005–2008), among many other adventures. Mariposa, founded in 1961, has hosted icons like Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, and Gordon Lightfoot. The 2025 festival takes place July 4–6 at Tudhope Park in Orillia. Riverfest Elora, set for August 15–17, is known for its diverse lineups, including performances by City and Colour, Carly Rae Jensen and the Violent Femmes . Spencer is honoured to have a leadership role at both festivals, and to have the opportunity to help create unforgettable experiences for all who attend!

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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, we chat with Andrew Cash, President and CEO of the Canadian Independent Music Association (CIMA). 

Rosalyn and Andrew discuss CIMA’s role in advocating for the Canadian independent music sector and the impact of Bill C-11. They also dive into the current political landscape affecting artists, emphasizing the importance of supporting Canadian artists and the need for a stable environment for the music industry. Andrew also highlights the upcoming events including CIMA's 50th anniversary celebrations and the Make It Music Conference, which focuses on the future of the Canadian music industry.

Find CIMA online and become a member:

Website

CIMA Instagram

About Andrew Cash

Andrew Cash is the President and CEO of the Canadian Independent Music Association (CIMA), the voice of Canada’s independent music sector. As a Member of Parliament from 2011 to 2015 Cash championed the music sector while raising awareness of the realities of making a living in Canada as an arts and culture worker. He continued this mission post-Parliament, co-founding the non-profit Urban Worker Project. As a singer/songwriter, producer and performer Cash spent 25 years touring and recording, first in the post punk band L’Etranger followed by a successful solo career as well as several collaborations including the Cash Brothers, with Peter Cash, Skydiggers and Jason Collett. He has created soundtrack music for television, including as series composer for Dragons Den. Cash has released over a dozen records and his contributions as an artist have earned him a Juno award and three SOCAN awards. 

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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

Welcome back to the fourth season of Refolkus. In this week's episode, we chat with Michelle Allman-Esdaille, owner and sync agent at The Hook and Co, The Hook Sync Group and Sustainable Creative Living. 

In this episode, Rosalyn and Michelle discuss the intricacies of sync and licensing in music. They chat about the roles of music supervisors and sync agents, the process of getting a song licensed and valuable insights on how artists can prepare their music for licensing opportunities. The conversation also delves into Michelle's personal journey from corporate life to empowering artists in the music industry and her journey of launching The Hook Sync Group. Michelle also answers some listener questions about writing specifically for sync and understanding sync licensing contracts.

Find The Hook & Co and The Hook Sync Group online:

Website

The Hook and Co Instagram

The Hook Sync Group Instagram

About Michelle Allman-Esdaille

Michelle Allman-Esdaille, is transforming the creative industry through her brainchild, The Hook & Company, a Toronto-based online marketplace offering work-for-hire artist services by industry experts across Canada and the US. As an accomplished artist manager, mentor and business owner, Michelle is renowned for her influence, including being the pioneering force behind The HOOK Sync Group, Canada's premier sync agency helmed by a Black woman, championing diversity and inclusivity. As an activist within the Black community, Michelle has spent time working with ADVANCE, Canada’s Black Music Business Collective, where she drove operations and talent acquisition, actively fostering growth in the Black music scene. Her commitment extends to Sustainable Creative Living, a platform where she leverages her decade-long experience to empower career-ready artists and industry professionals through various courses and experiential programming. To add to the list, Michelle is a Reiki practitioner and author of a collaborative anthology book entitled "You Have So Much Potential - Inspiring Generation Healing & Transformation" with 29 other doctors and practitioners showcasing her multifaceted commitment to empowering others, making her a true pioneer in the industry.

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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 and CKUW 95.9 FM.

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