Table 6ix

In this episode of Table6ix, Dana and Tiana sit down with Stephanie Lomberg, owner and founder of Dog World Resort & Spa, to talk about the changing relationship between Toronto residents and their dogs.From luxury dog grooming and daycare to mental stimulation, breed-specific enrichment and the realities of having a dog in a downtown condo, Stephanie shares what she's learned from more than 11 years in the pet-care industry.We also get into some of the biggest questions facing modern dog owners: Does every dog benefit from daycare? Is one long walk enough? How important is mental stimulation? And what should you actually consider before getting a dog?Stephanie breaks down why dogs have different play styles and personalities, why daycare isn't necessarily right for every dog, and how understanding a dog's individual temperament can make a huge difference.The conversation also takes a bigger turn as the Table6ix crew discusses Toronto's growing dog culture, dog-friendly restaurants and public spaces, traveling with pets, dog sitting, and why more people are treating their dogs as family members.And, of course, Dana gets put on the spot about whether he might finally become a dog person.We also talk about:- Doggy mud baths, facials & luxury grooming- The challenges of having a dog in downtown Toronto- What kind of dog would suit Dana?- Is a tired dog really a happy dog?- Are dogs becoming an alternative to having children?Dog World Resort & SpaInstagram: @dogworldrsWebsite: dogworldrs.comWhat do you think? Are dogs becoming an increasingly important part of modern family life? Should Toronto have more dog-friendly restaurants and public spaces?

And most importantly… is Dana finally ready to become a dog person?Subscribe to Table 6ix for more conversations with the people shaping Toronto, its neighbourhoods and the future of city life.

Want more content from the Table?✨ Follow on Instagram: @table6ixpodcast✨ Follow on TikTok: @table6ix.podcast🏙️ 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

In this episode of Table 6ix, Dana and Tiana explore what gives Toronto its distinct culture and how the experience of a city is shaped by the people, communities and perspectives that call it home.From Toronto’s diversity and the cultures reflected across its neighbourhoods to a food scene that leaves us spoiled for choice, they unpack the elements that make the city feel uniquely Toronto. They reflect on travelling elsewhere and appreciating the city differently when they return, and the contrast between experiencing Toronto as a resident versus seeing it through fresh eyes.

The conversation then expands by chatting with David Downey, President & CEO of the International Downtown Association (IDA), who shares his perspective working with stakeholders or City Builders, defined as the people and organizations collaborating to design downtowns that reflect the communities within them.

Together, they explore how thoughtful place-making can bring different cultures, experiences and identities together to create downtowns that feel authentic to their communities while ensuring vibrant, inclusive places exist where people genuinely want to be.

We also talk about:

- The challenges facing downtowns today and how cities are adapting to changing behaviours, expectations and needs

- The importance of third places from coffee houses and parks to other gathering spaces that create opportunities for community and connection

- Why the standard for restaurants and retail is so high in Toronto, and how being spoiled for choice shapes what residents expect from their city

- How every city and downtown has its own unique DNA, and why successful place-making starts with understanding what makes a community distinct

- David’s perspective on what will define a successful downtown in the future and what City Builders should be thinking about as they design the next generation of urban centres

Great cities don’t happen by accident. They evolve through the people who live in them and the City Builders who help create the conditions for culture, community and connection to thrive. What do you love about the culture of your community?

Subscribe to Table 6ix for more conversations with the people shaping Toronto, its neighbourhoods and the future of city life.

Want more content from the Table?

✨ Follow on Instagram: @table6ixpodcast

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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

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 

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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 

✨ 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

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