The future of storytelling isn't just about creating great films—it's about connecting the creators, investors, buyers, and partners who bring them to life.

In this episode of Table 6ix, hosts Dana Duncanson and Tiana Atapattu Jayatunga sit down with Geoff Macnaughton, Vice President of Market Programming and Theatrical and Programmer of Primetime at Toronto International Film Festival, to explore one of the organization's most ambitious evolutions yet: TIFF: The Market.

Together, they discuss why now was the right time for TIFF to launch a year-round marketplace that connects filmmakers, studios, producers, investors, distributors, innovators, and creators from around the world. Geoff shares how the Market expands TIFF beyond a traditional film festival, positioning Toronto as a global hub where creativity, business, and innovation intersect.

The conversation explores:

🎬 Why TIFF launched The Market and the opportunity it's creating for the industry

🌎 Toronto's growing role as a global destination for film, television, and creative business

💡 How technology, AI, streaming, and digital creators are reshaping the future of storytelling

🚀 Why TIFF introduced its new Innovation Hub and what it means for creators and entrepreneurs

🎙️ Geoff's insights on audience engagement, programming, and building experiences that connect people through stories

⚡ A fun QuickFire round covering favourite films, creative inspiration, industry myths, and more

Whether you're a filmmaker, entrepreneur, creator, marketer, investor, or someone passionate about culture, this episode offers an inside look at how storytelling is evolving—and why Toronto is helping shape its future.

🎟️ Learn More about TIFF The Market at https://tiff.net/themarket

✨ Follow TIFF on Instagram at @tiff_net and check out the Festival September 10-16, 2026

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🏙️ Table 6ix is brought to you by the Toronto Downtown West BIA.

Learn more about everything happening in Toronto's Downtown West at YourExperienceAwaits.ca

On this episode of Table 6ix, hosts Dana Duncanson and Tiana Atapattu Jayatunga sit down with Matt Raffy, performer in & Juliet at Toronto's Royal Alexandra Theatre, to explore the discipline, resilience, and passion behind a career in theatre.

Created by Canadian writer David West Read (Schitt's Creek) and featuring the chart-topping music of Max Martin, & Juliet reimagines Shakespeare's iconic heroine by asking one powerful question: What if Juliet chose herself?

Matt shares what it's like being part of a production that's redefining modern musical theatre through pop music, inclusive storytelling, and characters that resonate with today's audiences.

From representing Canadian talent on major stages to navigating auditions, rejection, and the realities behind the spotlight, this conversation offers an honest look at what it means to pursue creative dreams at the highest level.

We also talk about:

• Why & Juliet is attracting a new generation of theatre-goers

• The importance of representation through the character of May

• The physical and mental preparation required for Broadway-calibre performances

• Matt's favourite moments performing in the show

• Handling self-doubt and staying motivated in a competitive industry

• The evolving definition of success as an artist

• Advice for young creatives hoping to build careers in entertainment

Whether you're a theatre lover, aspiring performer, or someone chasing a big dream of your own, this episode is a reminder that the most meaningful journeys are often built through persistence, authenticity, and believing in yourself.

Catch & Juliet, the international smash-hit musical from Mirvish Productions, now playing at Toronto's historic Royal Alexandra Theatre. Created by Emmy® Award-winning Canadian writer David West Read (Schitt's Creek) and featuring the iconic music of Max Martin, & Juliet reimagines Shakespeare's classic heroine with a bold new ending.

✨ Follow Matt Raffy on Instagram at @mattraffy

✨ Follow Mirvish Productions on Instagram at @mirvishproductions

🎟️ Learn more about & Juliet and get tickets:& Juliet at Mirvish Productions

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🏆 Table 6ix is brought to you by the Toronto Downtown West BIA. For more information, visit: www.YourExperienceAwaits.ca

Toronto’s cultural identity is constantly evolving — and Luminato Festival is one of the biggest forces shaping how we experience the city.

On this episode of Table 6ix, we sit down to explore how public art, storytelling, and community-driven experiences help build civic pride, spark creativity, and make culture more accessible for everyone.

From the meaning behind this year’s festival theme of “play” to the return of iconic installations like the Red Ball Project, the conversation dives into why public art matters, how festivals can bring people together during uncertain times, and the responsibility cultural institutions have in creating more inclusive narratives across Toronto.

We unpack the power of nostalgia, the role of equity in storytelling, and what 20 years of public art reveals about the evolution of Toronto itself — while reflecting on how creativity, imagination, and “play” show up in everyday life.

We also talk about:

• Why festivals are essential to building civic pride and shaping Toronto’s identity

• The importance of “play” for creativity, wellness, and human connection

• How public art makes culture more accessible across communities

• The role of storytelling and representation in modern cultural programming

• Why nostalgia and iconic art installations continue to resonate with audiences

• How Toronto has evolved culturally over the last 20 years

• The balance between artistic vision and creating experiences for everyone

• What it takes to keep a major cultural festival fresh, relevant, and community-driven

Whether you’re passionate about Toronto’s arts scene, city-building, culture, or the future of public spaces, this episode offers a thoughtful look at how communities connect through shared experiences.

Check out Luminato Festival starting June 3 - June 28 and ✨ follow on Instagram at @luminatofestival

https://www.luminatofestival.com/festival-guide 

https://www.luminatofestival.com/access-program 

Want more content from the table? Check out our socials:

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 🏆 Table 6ix is brought to you by the Toronto Downtown West BIA. For more information, visit: www.YourExperienceAwaits.ca

What does cultural identity really mean today — beyond borders, labels, or expectations? In this special Asian Heritage Month episode of Table 6ix, hosts Tiana Jayatunga and Dana Duncanson sit down with James Roque, whose work and perspective are shaping conversations around culture, comedy, and representation.

➡️ Featuring: James Roque — Comedian, Writer, PerformerTogether, they explore the positive influence and cultural richness of Filipino heritage, unpacking how identity, humour, and lived experience shape both personal and creative journeys — and why these conversations matter now more than ever.

The conversation dives into the pivotal moments that shaped James’ path from New Zealand to Toronto, the realities of navigating the global comedy scene, and how storytelling and humour can both challenge perspectives and bring people together.

➡️ From stand-up stages in Toronto to international audiences on his Mano Po world tour, this episode highlights the impact of Filipino culture in shaping how we see ourselves and connect across communities.

➡️ We also talk about:

• What cultural identity really means today

• Navigating global audiences, cultural nuance, and storytelling

• Pivotal moments that shape creative journeys

• The role of comedy in culture and social commentary

• Representation in media, film, and live performance

• Creating space for Filipino voices on a global stage

Check out James on tour this year by going to his website for all tour dates and tickets: https://www.jamesroque.com/ and ✨ follow on Instagram at @jamesroquecomedy

Want more content from the table? Check out our socials:

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🏆 Table 6ix is brought to you by the Toronto Downtown West BIA. For more information, visit: www.YourExperienceAwaits.ca

What does leadership really mean today — beyond title, authority, or position?In this special International Women’s Day episode of Table 6ix, hosts Tiana Jayatunga and Dana Duncanson sit down with three remarkable women whose work influences how our cities, institutions, and public conversations evolve.➡️ Featuring:• Maya Kane — Executive Director, Communications, Marketing, Brand & Research, CBC/Radio-Canada

• Sarah Turney — Partner & Litigator, Fasken | Board Member, Downtown West BIA

• Veronica Maggisano — Vice President of Development, Oxford Properties GroupTogether, they explore how women in senior leadership shape public narratives, civic systems, and the built environment — and why responsible influence matters now more than ever.The conversation dives into the pivotal career moments that shaped their leadership journeys, how they navigate pressure and public visibility, and how leaders can create environments where more women feel empowered to grow and take up space. ➡️ From media and law to city building and community leadership, this episode highlights the real impact women are having in shaping the future of our communities across Toronto and beyond.➡️ We also talk about:• What leadership really means today• Navigating pressure, responsibility, and visibility as a leader• Pivotal moments that shape leadership journeys• How media, law, and development influence cities and culture• The importance of representation in decision-making spaces• Creating opportunities for the next generation of women leadersWant more content from the table? Check out our socials: ✨ Follow on Instagram at @table6ixpodcast ✨ Follow on TikTok at @table6ix.podcast 🏆 Table 6ix is brought to you by the Toronto Downtown West BIA. For more information, visit: www.YourExperienceAwaits.ca

In this inspiring episode of Table 6ix, hosts Tiana Atapattu Jayatunga and Dana Duncanson sit down with Aki Erenberg and Ricky Barrientos, the founders behind one of Toronto’s most talked-about food success stories: BEAR Steak Sandwiches. From a mother’s backyard during the Covid-19 lockdowns to becoming a Little Italy staple with a recently opened second location at The Well, Aki and Ricky share the grit, heart, and hustle behind their rise.This conversation dives into the power of community, the unseen intensity of building a food business from scratch and how documenting their journey through their YouTube docuseries The Backyard Boys is shaping the next chapter of their growth. Listeners will walk away inspired by their cultural influences, resilience through adversity, and their unshakable belief in bringing great food — and even greater storytelling — to Toronto.We also talk about:• The moment Aki & Ricky realized their backyard pop-up could become a full-scale Toronto restaurant success story.• What early chaos looked like — from long nights to juggling multiple jobs — and the lessons that stayed with them.• How their multicultural backgrounds influence their flavours, identity, and pride as POC founders.• The role community — both online and IRL — played in turning their sandwich into a citywide phenomenon.• What audiences can expect from The Backyard Boys docuseries, including behind-the-scenes stories and raw moments of self-reflection.• Their bold vision for the future, including their new location at The Well and what success looks like five years from now.Follow BEAR Steak Sandwiches on Instagram @bearsteaksandwiches and @thebackyardboysshow for the latest updates.Watch all episodes of The Backyard Boys Docuseries on YouTube @TheBackyardBoys-AkiRicky before or after you head over to The Well to try a sandwich yourself!Want more content from the table? Check out our socials: ✨ Follow on Instagram at @table6ixpodcast ✨ Follow on TikTok at @table6ix.podcast 🏆 Table 6ix is brought to you by the Toronto Downtown West BIA. For more information, visit: www.YourExperienceAwaits.ca

Ever find that you can’t seem to catch your breath? You may not even realize that you are holding it or that your shoulders are tense because you are busy at school or working or taking care of others. We sat down with transformational wellness educator, breath work facilitator, and entrepreneur Gio Bartholomeo to learn about the impact breath work can have on our professional and personal lives. It is an effective and easy aspect to integrate into a wellness plan and the most underrated!

We talk about reducing stress, unlocking emotional regulation, and reconnecting with the body through the breath as well as Gio’s start working with Wim Hof, The Iceman and the integration of other wellness practices like cold exposure, saunas, sleep and more.

Keep an eye out for the Mobility House Spotlight where show host, Tiana experiences a consultation and therapy treatment first-hand – the variety of treatments offered by such an experienced team downtown Toronto will reinvigorate and support your wellness plans all year long. 

We also talk about:

- How you could be breathing wrong right now & how to fix it

- How Toronto compares to other cities when it comes to wellness 

- Examples of different types of breathwork 

- Why breathwork is the secret tool that leaders utilize for high performance

- How the integration of breathwork with treatments from Mobility House will maximise your wellness plan 

- Practical tips and guidance to get started

Follow Gio Bartholomeo at @elementalgio & @elementalrhythm for free courses, content and more!

Follow Mobility House at @mobility_house - Your Home For All Things Wellness. 💪🏾

🚨 Discount code (6ix15) for 15% off all services

Want more content from the table? Check out our socials: 

✨ Follow on Instagram at @table6ixpodcast 

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🏆 Table 6ix is brought to you by the Toronto Downtown West BIA. For more information, visit: www.YourExperienceAwaits.ca

It’s time to stop feeling guilt and shame when the same old New Years’ resolutions don’t stick.

Instead, we are starting 2026 off strong with Dr. Sapna Sriram, a renowned leader and CEO in the field of sports medicine, rehabilitation, fitness, and sports performance to tackle how we can reframe wellness this year as something practical and personal - built through small, consistent habits rather than extreme routines or perfection.

We talk about starting a wellness journey to managing stress, prioritizing sleep, and recognizing early signs of burnout, this episode offers grounded guidance for modern life.

Stay tuned for the Sobr Market Spotlight on non-alcoholic drinks, unpacking the benefits of mindful consumption and how alcohol-free alternatives can support better energy, sleep, and social connection. Guess which one is everyone's favourite!

We also talk about:

- Sustainable wellness hacks

- The realities of setting intentions and changing habits

- Building a wellness vision that prioritizes the mind-body connection

- Working from home vs. commuting to the office

- The definition and accessibility of “quiet luxury”

- Staying resilient as both a mom and an entrepreneur

- Digital detox, screen time and more

What will your wellness journey look like this year? Let’s get it!

Follow Dr. Sapna Sriram at @drsapna and @integrahealth

Follow SOBR Market at @thesobrmarket

Want more content from the table? Check out our socials:

✨ Follow on Instagram at @table6ixpodcast

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🏆 Table 6ix is brought to you by the Toronto Downtown West BIA. For more information, visit: www.YourExperienceAwaits.ca

Living longer doesn’t always mean living well. Holistic Fitness Coach and Healthspan Consultant Julian Ho joins us to unpack the real goal: to not just live longer, but expand the years we can enjoy sustained, optimal health

In our Table 6ix season two finale, we sit down with Toronto-based coach, speaker, and ultra-endurance athlete, Julian Ho, to explore healthspan and how it relates to maintaining physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being over time.

We talk about the circle of care that supports optimal health, why introspection is a critical component of living well, and why Toronto is quickly becoming a global hub for next-gen wellness culture.

We also get into:

• The latest wellness and biohacking trends - and if they live up to the hype
• The importance of specificity in one’s approach to wellness and healthspan
• Why you don’t need to be rich to be healthy and examples from global Blue Zones
• The underrated habit Julian swears by everyday for optimal healthspan
• Why bringing it back to self and identifying your ethos is a critical step in one’s healthspan journey 
• The deep, reflective questions he asks new clients in coaching them to achieve their healthspan goals
• Julian’s favourite wellness destination in Toronto - it will surprise you! 
• The wellness leaders Julian listens to for inspiration 

Plus, Julian shares how he celebrated his recent ultramarathon race (he placed 5th out of 169 racers) and what he ate first. 

Follow Julian @julianho.ca or visit: www.julianho.ca.

To read more about his 100-mile race on May 24, 2025, see here. 

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Table 6ix brought to you by the Toronto Downtown West BIA. For more information, visit: Table6ixPodcast.com.

Two of downtown Toronto’s most popular places to hang out didn’t start with glossy plans or big budgets. They started with two guys who saw potential in empty land who had the vision, creativity and gumption to do something with it.

In this episode, we talk with Oliver Geddes (RendezViews) and Matt Rubinoff (STACKT Market), two of the people behind Toronto’s most talked-about outdoor spaces. Their projects may look effortless now, but getting there involved a mix of grit, rule-bending, and a lot of negotiating with the city.

We explore the origin stories behind both spaces, delve into the philosophy of placemaking in a city like Toronto, and discuss what it takes to build community spaces that are made for locals and loved by visitors. 

We talk about:

• How STACKT evolved from a cluster of shipping containers into a barrier-free public space and launchpad for small businesses - part incubator, part hangout, and fully rooted in community connection.
• How RendezViews turned an empty parking lot into Toronto’s largest outdoor patio, art park, and gathering space for over half a million people.
• Oliver’s call for city politics to reduce red tape and embrace creative development.
• Around the 16:45-minute mark, Oliver talks about the legendary after-hours hang out, The Matador, in a way that’s funny, heartfelt, and deeply nostalgic for anyone who remembers late-night Toronto.
• Why being “temporary” unlocked more creative freedom, and how that might be the key to innovative city design. 
• When a pop-up space becomes part of people’s lives - from first dates to playoff game memories.
• Why Oliver says a day at STACKT Market was the best day he’d had in Toronto in a long time.
• Why you may catch Elmo twerking at a RendezViews event.

During Quick Bites, Oliver shares his favourite view of the city, the land Matt would love to develop next, and what they’d each do with a $1 Million grant. 

Stick around ‘til the end to hear their love letters to Toronto.

Follow RendezViews at @rendezviewsto and STACKT Market at @stacktmarket

Follow Table 6ix on Instagram at @table6ixpodcast

Table 6ix is brought to you by the Toronto Downtown West BIA. For more information, visit: www.YourExperienceAwaits.ca.

Follow Table 6ix on Instagram @table6ixpodcast.

Table 6ix brought to you by the Toronto Downtown West BIA. For more information, visit: Table6ixPodcast.com.