Welcome back to another edition of What Barrie’s Talking About — the podcast that digs into the stories shaping our city and the people who call it home.

This week, we’re talking winter weather buzz, local leadership, a beloved seasonal tradition, and the Barrie Colts’ rise to the top of their division.

Here’s what’s inside this episode:

There’s been plenty of chatter this week about a possible polar vortex heading our way — and with colder temps and snow rolling in, some folks were bracing for the worst.

But before anyone panics, Barrie 360’s Ian MacLennan checked in with our go-to climatologist David Phillips, who isn’t convinced we need to sound the alarm… at least not yet. He breaks down what a polar vortex actually is, why the term gets tossed around so often, and what we should realistically expect as winter approaches.

Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall sat down with Ian MacLennan to look back at his first three years in office — from the biggest accomplishments to the challenges that came with steering the city through growth, change, and some unpredictable moments.

He talks openly about the work council has tackled so far, what still needs to be done, and what he hopes to focus on heading into the final year of his term. It’s a candid look at the direction Barrie is headed and the leadership guiding it.

One of the region’s most beloved seasonal traditions marks a major milestone this year, as First Light celebrates its 25th anniversary at Sainte-Marie Among the Hurons.

Mikaela Lefaive joins the show to share the story behind how the event first began, how it has grown over the years, and why it continues to draw thousands of visitors with its candlelit pathways, music, and cultural programming.

Whether you’re a longtime attendee or thinking of going for the first time, this year promises something special.

The Barrie Colts have shaken off their slow start and are now sitting firmly at the top of the OHL’s Central Division, six points ahead of North Bay.

Barrie 360’s Julius Hern connects again with analyst Gene Pereira to talk about what’s been clicking for the team, what’s changed since those early struggles, and what fans can expect as the season continues. With momentum on their side, the Colts are becoming one of the teams to watch.

Listen to the Full Episode

You can hear the full conversations in this week’s episode of What Barrie’s Talking About, available wherever you get your podcasts or at Barrie360.com. If you enjoy the show, be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so others in the community can find it too.

Follow Barrie 360 on Bluesky and X for updates, and check out our Daily Kickstart podcast for your weekday news rundown.

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Another week, another batch of stories shaping life in our city. What Barrie’s Talking About is back with fresh conversations, community updates, and a few things you’ll definitely want on your radar.

Here’s what we’re diving into this week:

She’s one of the greatest curlers this country has ever produced — Olympic gold, world champion, and an all-around Canadian icon. Jennifer Jones has now settled into life here in Simcoe County, but her story is far from slowing down.

She’s been touring with her new book Rock Star: My Life On and Off the Ice, and she took some time to chat with Barrie 360’s Julius Hern. From career-defining moments to the rhythm of family life today, this segment gives curlers and casual sports fans alike something to love.

Big news for book lovers — and honestly, for anyone who just wants more great community space.

A brand new Barrie Public Library branch is headed to Leacock Plaza in the city’s northwest corner. CEO Lauren Jessop joined Ian Maclennan to talk about why this branch is needed, what services it’ll bring, and how it fits into the city’s growing north end.

If you live anywhere near Leacock, this is a game changer.

The holiday season brings out dozens of donation drives — but The Shoebox Project has always stood out for its personal, heartfelt touch.

Samira Rashidian Zada and Shannon Muree joined Dan Blakeley to talk about how the project supports women, girls, two-spirit and gender-diverse individuals in need across Simcoe County. They break down how the shoeboxes are put together, who they help, and what items make the biggest difference.

It’s one of the easiest, most meaningful ways to give locally this season.

Look who’s back on top.

After a shaky start to the season, the Barrie Colts have charged their way to first place in the Central Division. Julius Hern and Colts analyst Gene Pereira return for their weekly roundup — the highs, the highlights, and a look at what’s ahead.

If you’re following the home team, this is the segment to catch.

You can listen to the full episode of What Barrie’s Talking About on any major streaming platform or at Barrie360.com.

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review — it helps more people in our community discover the stories that matter.

Be sure to follow Barrie 360 on Bluesky and X for more local updates, and check out our Daily Kickstart podcast for your weekday news hit.

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It’s a jam-packed week on What Barrie’s Talking About from Barrie 360 — the podcast that dives into the stories shaping our community.

We’re celebrating the season with Santa Claus parades, talking about a Barrie company that’s been leading the recycling charge for four decades, catching up with our local hockey teams, and finding out how one holiday tradition is bringing smiles to families who need it most.

The holiday season officially starts this weekend as Santa Claus parades roll through the region — and Barrie’s parade is right in the mix.

Barrie Chamber of Commerce CEO Paul Markle joins Barrie 360’s Ian MacLennan to share what to expect this year, what makes Barrie’s parade special, and how local businesses and community groups are coming together to spread that holiday cheer.

Catch the full chat in the episode — and find our full list of local parades at Barrie360.com.

We’ve got an update on what’s happening on and off the ice, and what fans can look forward to as the season continues.

A true Barrie success story, Busch Systems is celebrating 40 years of helping the world go green.

Founder and CEO Craig Busch joins Ian MacLennan to reflect on the company’s journey from a university project to a global leader in sustainable recycling solutions. He also shares where the industry is headed next — and how Barrie continues to play a big role in environmental innovation.

Barrie 360’s Julius Hern and Colts analyst Gene Pereira break down what’s clicking for the team, where they still need to tighten up, and why there’s plenty of reason for optimism heading deeper into the season.

It might sound fancy, but it’s all heart. The Toy Tea is back — an annual event that collects toys and donations to help local families during the holidays.

Angela Baldwin, part of the organizing committee, joins Ian MacLennan to share how the tradition started, what makes it so special, and how people can get involved.

You can learn more or make a donation at toytea.ca.

Listen Now

That’s what Barrie’s talking about this week!

You can listen to the full episode of What Barrie’s Talking About anywhere you get your podcasts — or stream it right from Barrie360.com.

Follow us on Bluesky and X @Barrie360 for updates, and don’t forget to check out our Daily Kickstart podcast for your weekday news fix.

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We are forever grateful to the men and women of our armed forces who have made the ultimate sacrifice so that we may live. To all those who have served and who are currently serving, thank you.

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Welcome back to What Barrie’s Talking About — the podcast that digs into the stories shaping life in our community, powered by Barrie 360.

This week, we’re talking about a local business stepping up for hurricane-ravaged Jamaica, how Barrie business leaders are working to tackle homelessness, what’s really going on with Ontario’s speed camera ban, and more.

When Hurricane Melissa tore through Jamaica, the devastation left many without the tools to rebuild. That’s where Glass Doctor Barrie stepped up.

After a rough start to the OHL season, the Barrie Colts are heating up — riding a four-game winning streak and climbing the Central Division standings.

The Ontario government is calling for the end of speed cameras, claiming they don’t actually slow drivers down and are just a cash grab.

A 40-bed modular facility just arrived in Barrie — part of the new Campus of Care initiative from the County of Simcoe and Barrie Cares, a coalition of local business leaders working to address homelessness head-on.
Barrie Cares Director Paul Larche joins the conversation to explain what this new facility means for the city and how it fits into the broader effort to provide housing and support for those in need.

Barrie’s own Drew Nesbitt is inching closer to a spot on the main golf tour.
Barrie 360’s Julius Hern caught up with him between swings to chat about his progress, his mindset, and what’s next for the local pro chasing his dream.

It’s Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week, and along with the usual safety reminders, there are new regulations coming into effect that every homeowner needs to know.

Listen to the full episode of What Barrie’s Talking About now — available at Barrie360.com or wherever you stream your podcasts.

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It’s been another busy week in Barrie and What Barrie’s Talking About is breaking down the stories that hit home for our community.

From international trade drama to local good deeds and the latest from the Barrie Colts, here’s what’s on this week’s episode.

Trade talk between Canada and the U.S. took a sharp turn this week after President Donald Trump abruptly halted discussions.

The reason? Ontario ran an anti-tariff ad on American television — featuring a clip from former President Ronald Reagan talking about tariffs way back in the ‘80s. Was it a bold move… or a dangerous one for our economy?

Barrie 360’s Ian Maclennan gets insight from Kyle Peacock of Peacock Tariff Consulting in Orillia, who breaks down the politics, the posturing, and what it really means for businesses here at home.

The Gift a Family Christmas charity has officially extended its deadline until mid-November, giving more families the chance to receive support — and more donors the chance to help.

Ian catches up with the charity’s founder and one of her trusty “elves” to get an update on how the community is stepping up this year to spread some Christmas cheer.

Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall joins Ian to talk about what’s been completed, what’s still in progress, and how the city decides which projects make the priority list.

From potholes to planning, it’s a look behind the orange cones and into how Barrie keeps things moving — even as the cold weather sets in.

With just three wins in their first 12 games, the team’s had a few close calls and shootout heartbreakers along the way.

Barrie 360’s Julius Hern teams up with Colts analyst Gene Pereira to break down what’s working, what’s not, and what needs to change to get this squad back on track.

Listen to the full episode now wherever you get your podcasts — or at Barrie360.com.

You can also follow What Barrie’s Talking About on X and Bluesky at @Barrie360 to stay connected to the latest local stories.

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This week on What Barrie’s Talking About, we’re covering stories that hit close to home. From frontline mental health work and rock ‘n’ roll to Halloween fun for every kid and some tough times for the Barrie Colts. Lots of things on the go in the city of Barrie.

Walking the Beat — and Supporting Mental Health

This week, Barrie 360’s Ian Maclennan joins Barrie Police Constable Guy Peters and Lynn Lavigne from the Canadian Mental Health Association’s Crisis Program to talk about their incredible partnership through the Mobile Crisis Response Unit.

They’re walking the beat together and bringing support directly to those who need it most. It’s a conversation about compassion, safety, and how a local initiative is making a real difference.

Big Wreck’s Back with The Rest of the Story

Canadian rock fans this one’s for you. Big Wreck is back with their eighth studio album, The Rest of the Story, and Barrie 360’s Julius Hern caught up with frontman Ian Thornley to talk new music, creative fire, and the evolution of that signature Big Wreck sound.

Halloween fun for everyone! Barrie’s Accessible Haunted Village is back this weekend, designed for children with accessibility needs to enjoy the spooky season safely.

Set on the grounds of Oatley Vigmond on Ferris Lane, the event blends fun, fright, and inclusion. Organizer Karen Vigmond stopped by to chat with Ian Maclennan about how it all came together and why it’s such a special night for local families.

It’s been a rocky start to the OHL season for the Barrie Colts. 12 games in, just three wins, and a few too many shootout losses. Barrie 360’s Julius Hern checks in with Colts broadcaster and analyst Gene Pereira to find out what’s going wrong, what’s working, and what needs to change to turn the season around.

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Welcome back to another episode of What Barrie’s Talking About from Barrie 360 — the podcast that brings you the stories that matter most to our community.

Hosted by Dan Blakeley, this week’s episode covers a bit of everything: film, politics, community spirit, and local creativity. From the return of the Barrie Film Festival, to a heated discussion over Barrie’s annexation plans, and the mission behind Barrie Families Unite, there’s plenty to catch up on.

It’s back! The Barrie Film Festival kicks off today, bringing a lineup of screenings, galas, and special events for movie lovers across the city.

Barrie 360 takes a look at what’s planned for this year’s festival, including featured films, local filmmakers, and some can’t-miss events that make it one of Barrie’s most anticipated annual celebrations of cinema.

Whether you’re into indie flicks, documentaries, or big-screen storytelling, there’s something for everyone as the red carpet rolls out once again.

The debate over Barrie’s proposed annexation of portions of Springwater and Oro-Medonte continues — and this week, Simcoe County Warden Basil Clarke joins Barrie 360’s Ian MacLennan to share his take.

Clarke isn’t thrilled about the idea, warning that the townships and the county could use those same lands for their own future growth. With public meetings and council votes now happening in both townships, this conversation has real implications for the region’s next decade.

Find out what the Warden had to say about how this could affect residents across Simcoe County.

Barrie Families Unite is on a mission to raise $20,000 to support its incredible programs that help local families thrive, no matter their circumstances.

To get there, the group is hosting Home Sweet Home 2025 — a fundraising event happening October 23rd at Traditions Banquet Hall on John Street.

Ian MacLennan sits down with event manager Amber Macauley and executive director Nikki Glahn to talk about what the event means, what the money will go toward, and how the organization continues to empower individuals and families throughout Barrie.

He’s back at it! Barrie-based author Bryan Jorgensen has just released his fifth novel, Fitzroy’s Revenge.

He dropped by to chat with Barrie 360’s Julius Hern about what inspired the new book, what readers can expect from this latest story, and how his writing has evolved since his earlier works.

If you love discovering local talent — or just need something new to add to your fall reading list — this is one to check out.

If you like what you hear, subscribe, rate, and review to help more people in our community discover the show.

And don’t forget — follow Barrie 360 on Bluesky and X (Twitter) for more stories, local events, and breaking news updates.

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Welcome back to another episode of What Barrie’s Talking About from Barrie 360 — the podcast that dives into the stories shaping our city and surrounding communities. Hosted by Dan Blakeley, this week’s episode packs a lot in: from city expansion talk to a century-old fall fair, community kindness, and some local hockey heat.

It’s a big topic that’s got plenty of people talking — Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall joins Barrie 360’s Ian MacLennan to make his case for annexing portions of nearby Oro-Medonte and Springwater. The move would make room for future growth as the city continues to expand, but not everyone’s on board.

Hear what the Mayor has to say about the city’s vision, what it means for local residents, and how the upcoming public meetings could shape Barrie’s future footprint.

Before winter really kicks in, there’s still time for a little old-fashioned fun! One of the region’s most beloved traditions — the Elmvale Fall Fair — is back this weekend.

Barrie 360’s Ian MacLennan chats with Elmvale councillor Matt Garwood, who also serves as VP of the Flos Agricultural Society, about everything planned for the fair’s 160+ year celebration. Expect rides, parades, livestock, live entertainment — and that perfect small-town fall vibe that keeps people coming back year after year.

The holidays are coming up fast, and one local initiative is making sure everyone in our community can enjoy a little Christmas magic.

Gift a Family, the heartwarming charity campaign, is back for its third year — connecting donors with families in need to help make the season brighter. Learn how this year’s effort is expanding and how you can get involved to make a real difference for local families.

In just a couple of weeks, blue will be more than a fashion choice — it’ll be a show of support. This week’s episode explains why wearing blue is important and how it connects to a powerful community message. Tune in for the full story behind the campaign and how you can be part of it.

After a rough start two weekends ago, the Barrie Colts are heating up again. Barrie 360’s Julius Hern sits down with Gene Pereira, Colts broadcaster and writer, to break down the team’s latest performances — including two big wins and one tough shootout loss.

They look ahead to what fans can expect this weekend and how the team’s shaking off the early-season jitters.

As the snow and cold creep closer, Ralphy’s Animal Sanctuary in Wyebridge is hustling to make sure all its furry and feathered residents are warm and cared for this winter.

Rock 95’s MJ chats with sanctuary manager Shannon Laguizamón, who says they’re not asking for cash — though donations are always welcome — but for helping hands to get ready for winter. Volunteers can pitch in with supplies, repairs, and animal care.

Want to help? You can reach Shannon directly at 705-817-3757 or [email protected].

If you like what you hear, subscribe, rate, and review the show to help more locals find it. And don’t forget — you can follow Barrie 360 on Bluesky and X (Twitter) for more community updates and breaking news.

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Welcome back to What Barrie’s Talking About, the podcast that dives into the stories shaping our community. This week, host Dan Blakeley and the Barrie 360 team take a closer look at housing, homelessness, healing, and hockey.

Where’s all the housing we keep hearing about? Despite government incentives and cuts to red tape, new housing projects in Ontario — including here in Barrie — have slowed dramatically.

The Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON) says housing starts are down an average of 40% across 34 municipalities it studied, and gave most of them a failing grade. Council President Richard Lyall sits down with Barrie 360’s Ian Maclennan to explain why the industry has hit a wall, and what needs to change.

The homelessness crisis in Barrie continues to grow, with encampments being torn down and residents asking what more can be done. Barrie Cares, a local grassroots organization, has been quietly working behind the scenes to help.

Director Rowley Ramey joins Barrie 360’s Julius Hern to talk about how the group is trying to make a difference, where they’re focusing their efforts, and how the community can step up too.

At Scanlon Creek Conservation Area, visitors might notice something unusual — a phone booth in the woods. It’s called the Wind Phone, and it offers a symbolic, powerful way for people to process grief and begin healing.

Barrie 360’s Ian Maclennan speaks with Nicole Hamley from the Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority and Lisa Snow from the Oasis Centre for Bereavement and Healing to learn more about this unique resource and the role it plays in emotional recovery.

The Barrie Colts are off to a 1-3 start this OHL season, including a tough shootout loss. They’re looking to bounce back this weekend.

Colts broadcaster Gene Pereira joins Barrie 360’s Julius Hern with weekly updates on the team — the wins, the challenges, and what fans can look forward to as the season unfolds.

For more local stories, follow us on Bluesky and X at @Barrie360, or visit Barrie360.com.

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