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Looking for help but don’t know where to start? 

Carlin sits down with Sherri Mullen of the Okotoks Family Resource Centre, a powerhouse that's been supporting the community for over two decades. 

Sherri shares the ins and outs of how her team answers hundreds of calls, coordinates essential services, and keeps residents connected—from volunteer rides to medical appointments to free tax filing for low-income families. 

This conversation reveals the invisible backbone of Okotoks' social support system and reminds us all that asking for help is a sign of strength—not weakness.

Listen For

0:20 Meet Sherri: 22 Years of Community Support
3:56 Why People Come: Confusion, Not Just Crisis
6:31 Hidden Gem: The Volunteer Driver Program
8:16 Snow Heroes: More Than Just a Sign
14:27 The Rising Tide of Housing Struggles
15:20 Behind the Scenes: Free Tax Filing with Heart 

Connect with guest: Sherri Mullen

LinkedIn | Website

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What would make someone take in 25 dogs, work for free, and keep going after being bitten 58 times? 

Carlin Lutzer sits down with Sam Burnett, co-owner of Moe Dog Rescue Mission, to explore the gritty realities behind dog rescuing. 

From its origins in Cuba to tackling Alberta’s shady breeding practices, Sam shares raw stories, hard-earned wisdom, and a deep belief that there's no such thing as a bad dog — just bad circumstances. 

Whether you're a dog owner, animal advocate, or someone curious about what really goes into saving a life, this episode is equal parts eye-opening and inspiring.

Listen For:

1:46 From Cuba to Canada How Moe Dog Rescue Began

5:04 The Chaos of Fostering 25 Dogs at Once

7:56 When Rescues Go Wrong Not All Are Created Equal

13:54 The Transformation of a Semi-Feral Dog

20:04 Are You Accidentally Training Your Dog to Be Reactive

28:40 Inside Alberta’s Shocking Dog Auction Scene

44:34 Lifetime Training Support for Every Adopted Dog

Connect with guest: Sam Burnett

Website | Moe Dog Instagram | How YOU Can Help

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What happens when long-time landowners become the face of change in a tight-knit rural community? 

In this follow-up episode of the Okotoks Podcast, Carlin sits down with Adrian Munro, president of Highfield Investment Group, and Dennis Inglis, his consultant and longtime friend, to hear the developer's perspective on the proposed Highfield and Rowland Acres developments. 

They unpack the history of the land, their motivations, the misunderstood density numbers, and their ongoing efforts to engage with neighbors in Raven Crest and Silver Tip. 

With emotions running high and misinformation spreading, the conversation is a revealing glimpse into the balancing act between progress and preservation in Foothills County. 

Listen For

1:59 The History of Highfield: From Exotic Cattle to Development Plans

4:29 Did the County Invite Development?

5:19 What Happens to the Equestrian Centre?

11:25 Community Pushback: Real Concerns or Vocal Minority?

13:27 Comparing Densities: Highfield vs. Other Foothills Developments

17:01Best Use of the Land: Is This Smart Growth?

20:31 Water Usage Myth-Busting: Homes vs. Industrial

Guests

Adrian Munro, President Highfield Investment Group

Web site | LinkedIn | Email | 403-723-2106

Dennis Inglis

LinkedIn

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What do dog poop, traffic jams, and election ballots have in common? They’re all shaping life in Okotoks! 

Carlin Lutzer chats with Town Councillor Rachel Swendseid about the real-world issues facing local residents—from the surprising environmental restrictions on the beloved 17-acre dog park to the noise complaints and bottlenecks plaguing 32nd Street. 

Rachel shares thoughtful insights on why a riverfront dog park isn’t in the cards, how reporting speeders really does help, and what it’s like to run (or not run) for council. 

They share a relatable look at local leadership and the everyday decisions that keep a town moving—sometimes slowly, thanks to construction.

Listen For

1:15 First Term & Election Uncertainty

2:16 Why the Dog Park Was Never Developed

5:50 The Tragedy of the Dog Poop Commons

10:30 Why We Can’t Have a River Dog Park

16:07 Noise Radar Coming This Summer

22:24 The “Zip It” Zipper Merge Campaign

Guest Rachel Swendseid

Instagram | Website 

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Is a "green energy" project about to stink up an entire community? 

In this gripping episode of the Okotoks Podcast, host Carlin Lutzer sits down with Foothills County resident Benita Estes, who lives a mere 200 metres from the proposed Rimrock biodigester project. 

With 4,600 complaints already filed over existing feedlot odors, the community is rallying against what many fear could be an environmental and quality-of-life disaster. 

Benita breaks down the origins of the project, the questionable consultation process, and the staggering scope of this industrial-scale biodigester—slated to be among the largest in the world. 

From exploding digesters to unfiltered waste lagoons and a surge in heavy truck traffic, this episode sounds the alarm on a project set for approval on June 11th, and urges residents to take a stand before it's too late. 

Listen For

5:52 Complaints Surge After Rimrock Takeover
9:22 What Is a Biodigester, Anyway?
22:24 Residents Allegedly Misled During Notification
36:09 Traffic Nightmare on Rural Roads
50:56 What You Can Do Before June 11th

Guest Benita Estes

Stop that Smell website | Facebook Group | Foothills County link to Project

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What happens when a city-sized development is approved just outside your town—without your input? 

Carlin Lutzer sits down with Paul Howarth, a passionate Foothills County resident, to discuss the controversial Highfield & Rowland Acres Area Structure Plans. 

Together, they explore how the proposed 16,000-resident development threatens to reshape Okotoks and the surrounding Foothills region—potentially overwhelming local healthcare, emergency services, infrastructure, and public process. 

From allegations of poor consultation and procedural irregularities to the political and fiscal motivations behind the project, this episode is a wake-up call for every resident who thought this wasn't their fight. 

Tune in to hear why this isn’t just a rural issue—it’s a regional one with ripple effects for everyone.

Listen For:

03:16 Paul’s warning to Okotoks: Why this plan affects you

10:16 Is it really about housing or something more?

14:29 Legal challenges ahead

21:48 Urban tax base vs rural services – a coming clash

29:40 Building for people—or developers?

32:26 Call to action: Speak out before it’s too late

Guest: Paul Howarth

Stop Bad Foothills

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What do scorpions, French horns, and world politics have in common? 

Carlin Lutzer welcomes Nolan Asplund, a 16-year-old Okotoks phenom whose ambition is as diverse as his reptile collection. 

Nolan shares how he founded Funky Fresh Reptiles, performs in the Calgary Youth Orchestra, and is preparing to speak with political leaders about reducing polarization and amplifying youth voices. 

From explaining venomous versus poisonous species to advocating for more collaborative political systems, Nolan blends scientific insight with civic passion. 

This isn't just a conversation—it's a glimpse into the future, and Nolan is boldly leading the way.

Listen For:

02:41 — Youth Voice to World Leaders

06:14 — Conversations with Local Politicians

11:58 — Meet Funky Fresh Reptiles

18:42 — From Hobby to Business: The Reptile Hustle

21:52 — From Geckos to Global: The Business Grows

28:01 — One-Stop Shop for Reptile Lovers

Connect with Guest: Nolan Asplund

Email | Instagram | TikTok | YouTube | Facebook | Daffy’s Round Table Episode | Calgary Youth Orchestra Article | Funky Fresh Reptiles Article

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Is it even a Dawgs game if you don’t hear “Ice cold beer here!” echo through the stands? 

Carlin Lutzer chats with one of the most iconic and beloved figures at Seaman Stadium—Kevin Morrison, a veteran hawker with a booming voice, quick wit, and undeniable presence. 

Known affectionately as “the beer guy,” Kevin shares how he’s elevated the art of vending into an essential part of the Dawgs’ atmosphere, recounts his decades-long journey slinging snacks and drinks across Western Canada, and reflects on why baseball is uniquely suited for the kind of entertainment and fan connection he brings to every game. 

It’s a heartwarming and hilarious look at how one man’s voice—and banter—have become just as memorable as the crack of the bat.

Listen For:

04:49 – Hawking Since '88

10:18 – Becoming the Dawgs' Most Recognizable Figure

14:38 – Why the Dawgs Could Only Work in Okotoks

20:10 – Baseball: A Sensory and Social Experience

23:00 – The “Beer” Call—All on Bloopers

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What if your healthcare was powered by neighbours, volunteers, and a whole lot of heart?

In this episode of the Okotoks Podcast, Carlin Lutzer sits down with Andrea Mitchell, the passionate Executive Director of the Sheep River Health Trust, to explore how this remarkable nonprofit keeps care local and community-focused.

From equipping urgent care and supporting Rising Sun Long-Term Care, to beloved fundraisers like the Radiothon and Photos with Santa, Andrea shares inspiring stories of connection, compassion, and impact.

They discuss how healthcare extends beyond clinics — into programs for seniors, children, and even grief support groups. Plus, Andrea emphasizes the crucial role of volunteers and local businesses that make these initiatives thrive.

Listen For

0:12 Celebrating Okotoks: National Recognition for Light Up Okotoks
3:16 What is the Sheep River Health Trust? A Mission Explained
7:54 Five Pillars of Support: Beyond Just Medical Equipment
12:57 Slit Lamp Project: Improving Local Urgent Care
20:28 Heartwarming Stories: The Fun Bus & Rising Sun Long-Term Care
25:02 How to Get Involved: Volunteering Opportunities

Connect with guest Andrea Mitchell

LinkedIn | Website

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What’s the Dawgs’ secret to building a championship team and a championship town?

Carlin Lutzer sits down with Tyler Hollick, General Manager of the Okotoks Dawgs and a true pillar of the community. 

From his first days as a 14-year-old recruit to becoming a national college player of the year and a pro scout for the Brewers, Tyler's journey is a masterclass in passion, purpose, and perseverance. 

They dive into the Dawgs’ deep roots in Okotoks, the family-first atmosphere at Seaman Stadium, and how the team continues to raise the bar both on and off the field. 

Whether you’re a baseball nut or just love a good community-driven story, this one’s a grand slam.

Listen for:

03:42 – The impact of connecting players and fans

11:35 – Tyler's college records and pro draft moment

17:08 – Major stadium and training facility upgrades

24:09 – How other franchises are taking notes from Okotoks

31:10 – How the Dawgs’ success lifts the entire league

Connect with Guest: Tyler Hollick, Okotoks Dawgs Baseball General Manager

LinkedIn | Website 

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