Table 6ix

Othership. IYKYK. 

For those who don’t, Othership is leading Toronto’s wellness movement from right here in the downtown West. 

In this episode of Table 6ix, we’re thrilled to welcome Ashley Bryant, Guide at Othership, to discuss the powerful, restorative experience that Othership offers.

Othership is more than a wellness studio; it’s fast becoming a community hub where hot sauna sessions and cold plunges meet emotional support and genuine connection. Join host Laurie Weir as she goes one-on-one with Ashley as they dive into the ethos and origin story of Othership, explore its profound impact, and share their personal experiences of healing and mental and physical transformation. In this episode, you’ll hear:

• What to expect at Othership: guided sauna sessions that range from releasing loud animal noises to super chill vibes, ice baths (not for the faint of heart – these tubs run between 0° and 4°C), and a welcoming tea lounge.
• The inspiring inception story of Othership by co-founder Robbie Bent during the pandemic (hint: it started in his garage!).
• How Othership is redefining community gatherings with its alcohol-free, sober social events.
• The mental, physical and emotional benefits of alternating between hot and cold therapies.
• Personal stories of emotional release and healing, including Laurie's own grief journey.
• Ashley's insights on fostering a supportive and communal environment to help people overcome challenges and tackle life with confidence.

For more information, check out Othership Toronto and book your session today!

Inside Othership, a booze-free alternative to the King West bacchanal (Toronto Life, June 2022)

Ice Bath Spa Concept ‘Othership’ Opens 2nd Toronto Location with Expansion Plans for Major Markets in Canada and NYC [Interview]

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

In this episode, we’re uncovering one of Toronto’s coolest hidden gems: 401 Richmond. Hosts Laurie Weir and Dana Duncanson are here to delve into the story of this iconic building at the corner of Richmond and Spadina with the visionary behind it all, Founder Margie Zeidler

Margie took an old lithography factory and turned it into a bustling cultural and commercial hub that’s home to over 150 tenants—from art galleries and fashion designers to non-profits and tech companies. 

In this captivating episode, you’ll hear:

• The fascinating history and transformation of 401 Richmond
• How urban activist Jane Jacobs inspired Margie’s vision
• The unique architecture and labyrinth of hallways within 350 ft. long structure
• Hilarious and heartwarming stories of some truly eclectic tenants (like the guy who sold furniture and frozen salmon!) 
• An early tenant, lawyer Michael Cochrane, proudly coined “village in a box” to describe 401 Richmond’s supportive, diverse community
• Iconic Toronto landmarks designed by her famed architect father, the late Eb Zeidler (including Ontario Place, Eaton Centre, Queen’s Quay Terminal, Hospital for Sick Children, and the Princess Margaret Hospital)

Margie’s unwavering dedication to offering affordable work spaces for artists and entrepreneurs has made a profound impact on Toronto’s cultural landscape and acted as an important incubator for young, emerging talent.  She’ll share the ups, downs, and everything in between from her 30-year journey.

So join us for a lively chat with Margie Zeidler that’ll leave you feeling inspired and ready to explore the vibrant arts scene in downtown Toronto! 

To learn more about 401 Richmond, click here.
For a look back at the history of the 401 Richmond building and early tenants, see here.
For more information about urban activist Jane Jacobs and a list of her publications, works and interviews, see here.
Martin Prosperity Institute Report: From the Ground Up: Growing Toronto’s Cultural Sector.
Stuart Brand’s book How Buildings Learn.
Village in a Box? Workplace of the Future by Michael Cochrane (Workplace News, 1998).
401 Richmond, Toronto: A Hub and Model of Sustainability. A case study prepared by Dorian Pai of Carleton University.
A look at Eb Zeidler’s impressive architecture career.

Follow Table 6ix on Instagram @table6ixpodcast.

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

Public art is more than decoration— it turns urban spaces into connected communities, sharing rich stories through visual art forms. In this episode of Table 6ix, we’re excited to welcome Kelly Langgard, the Director & CEO of the Toronto Arts Council and Toronto Arts Foundation, to discuss the crucial role of public art.

Join us as Kelly shares insights on how public art fosters dialogue, builds community, and reflects the diverse identities of Torontonians and cultures from around the world.

She’ll dive into the City of Toronto’s Public Art Strategy, and highlight the Toronto Arts Council’s 50th anniversary celebration happening on June 13 at David Pecaut Square during Luminato in the Square, a free and public event showcasing Toronto's vibrant arts scene.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

• The mission and impact of the Toronto Arts Council
• How public art defines and enhances a city’s identity, creates community and a sense of belonging 
• The role of graffiti in artistic expression and freedom of speech 
• The City of Toronto’s 10-year Public Art Strategy and its future vision
• The intangible, yet important benefits of public art, from social cohesion to economic vitality
• Details on Toronto Art Council’s 50th anniversary community celebration on June 13 (For more information)

Join us for an inspiring conversation that showcases the power of art!

Kelly Langgard Bio: 

Kelly Langgard has more than 25 years of experience in public policy, arts funding, governance, strategic planning, partnerships and government and stakeholder relations.  She has led various programs and initiatives aimed at supporting more opportunities for artists and arts professionals. Kelly began her career at Calgary’s Herland Feminist Film Festival before becoming Executive Director of Images Festival in Toronto, during which time she served on the boards of the Canadian Filmmakers Distribution Centre and the Independent Media Arts Alliance. She has held a number of positions at Canada Council for the Arts: Media Arts Officer, Head of Audience and Market Development, Head of Partnership and International Coordination and Manager of Strategic Research Initiatives. She has also held the positions of Senior Advisor for Cultural Diplomacy at Global Affairs Canada, Program Manager at the Canadian Commission for UNESCO, and most recently Director of Granting at Ontario Arts Council.

More about the Toronto Arts Council’s 50th Anniversary Community Celebration.
Learn more about Toronto Arts Council.
For details about Toronto Arts Council grant programs and to apply, click here.
Read more about the City of Toronto’s new Action Plan for Culture Sector, here.

Follow Table 6ix on Instagram @table6ixpodcast.

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

Welcome to "Table 6ix”, a new podcast that invites you to pull up a chair and join our hosts Laurie Weir and Dana Duncanson for meaningful conversations with the leaders, visionaries, and intriguing personalities who are shaping and transforming Toronto’s dynamic landscape. From the latest trends and experiences to personal stories and important topics, Table 6ix explores what makes Toronto thrive. Think of this as a love letter to the city.

So who better to be the first guest on the first episode of Table 6ix than our amazing Deputy Mayor and City Councillor for Ward 10, Ausma Malik.

Ausma is the first hijab-wearing Muslim woman elected to public office in Canada, and she’s committed to making significant changes for the better. From affordable housing to investing in mental health programs to creating a city where everyone can thrive. Join Laurie and Dana as they dive deep into Ausma’s journey, her love for Toronto, and her vision for a more inclusive, compassionate city."

Some highlights:

• Ausma’s compassionate leadership style; and how advice from her mother has helped her handle the haters.
• Toronto’s new affordable housing measures and steps to make getting around this city less painful (whether you’re taking the TTC or driving).
• The transformation of downtown Toronto and the importance of a caring community.
• Personal stories that’ll make you laugh and maybe even tear up a bit.
• What it’s like working alongside Mayor Olivia Chow in an all-female leadership team.
• The books and music that inspires her (thanks to her brother’s great taste).
• How Ausma sees Toronto’s identity.
• Some Taylor Swift talk and our host Laurie’s parking ticket problem (No, Ausma can’t help you with that!).

Don’t miss this fun, engaging, and oh-so-Toronto chat! Enjoy!
 
Ausma Malik bio
For updates on  Ausma Malik’s ward and to stay in touch.
Ausma’s brother, Abdul-Rehman Malik, interviewed her on his podcast, This Being Human, filmed at the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto. Listen here.

Follow Table 6ix on Instagram @table6ixpodcast.

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