Women In Media

This episode kicks off a special series of conversations recorded for 'Inside the Song,' presented by Music Publishers Canada, CMRRA, and the JUNO Awards. 

It opens with Music Publishers Canada CEO Margaret McGuffin speaking about the Women in the Studio program, which counts Breagh among its alumni, and why creating opportunities for women in production matters.

You never know where a song might end up. For Breagh Isabel, an unfinished idea at a Toronto songwriting camp became “In Another World,” EJAE’s debut solo single following the success of KPop...

In this episode of the Women in Media Podcast, host Sarah Burke speaks with Chris Kushner and Jenni Rai, the duo behind the podcast Boobalicious: Breast Cancer and Beyond. They discuss the importance of community and shared experiences in navigating breast cancer, the challenges faced by women in seeking information and support, and the unique perspectives they bring to the conversation.

Chris shares her personal journey with breast cancer, highlighting the need for better communication and understanding from medical professionals. Jenni emphasizes the role of education and empowerment in helping women cope with the physical and emotional...

What does it actually mean to feel like you belong?

Sarah Burke is back from Podcast Movement in New York with a lot on her mind. She unpacks what she learned about the rapidly changing podcast landscape, detailing new research from Tom Webster about the top podcasting platforms and habits. 

She discusses a panel she was on with Jay Nachlis of Coleman Insights, Matt Cundill of Sound Off Media, and Peter Bukowski of Locked On Packers on podcasting’s surprising role in combating loneliness ahead of...the rant.

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The stars of the acclaimed APTN, CBC and Netflix comedy North of North, Anna Lambe and Maika Harper, join Sarah Burke to talk about one of the coolest mother-daughter duos on tv.

They talk about filming in their hometown of Iqaluit, and what changes when Inuit women aren’t simply represented in a story, but are helping lead the creative decisions behind it. Anna and Maika reflect on bringing their own lived experiences to Siaja and Neevee and how rewarding it's been working with creators Stacey Aglok MacDonald and Alethea Arnaquq-Baril.

They al...

Host Sarah Burke interviews Shauna de Cartier, the founder and president of Six Shooter Records, and one of the first and only female-founded independent record labels in Canada.

They discuss Shauna's journey in the music industry, the importance of partnerships, the challenges of running an independent label, and her approach to artist management. Shauna shares insights on spotting talent and hearing something special live, balancing personal and professional relationships, and the values that guide her work in the music scene.

She reflects on her career highlights as the label...

In this episode of the Women in Media Podcast, host Sarah Burke interviews Ruby Carr, a seasoned broadcaster and content creator. Ruby shares her journey through various radio markets from Halifax to Vancouver, eventually landing at CHUM in Toronto. She discusses how her family has influenced her career, the challenges and changes in the radio landscape, the importance of mentorship, and the adaptability required to thrive in a rapidly evolving media environment.

Ruby Carr is a broadcaster and digital content creator currently on-air at CHUM 104.5 in Toronto. Ruby has over 15 years of radio experience...

Media personality Jax Irwin returns to discuss her evolution from radio host to podcast host and content creator, building her own media company, and how her small-town roots in Nova Scotia influence her approach to life and work. We also touch on navigating entrepreneurship, partnerships, and redefining success for women in media.

This episode was recorded at The Ritz-Carlton in Toronto during the Women in Entertainment Canada Summit and Awards; an event produced by The Hollywood Reporter in partnership with Access Media Canada.

More About Jax Irwin:

Jax Irwin...

This episode was recorded at The Ritz-Carlton in Toronto during the Women in Entertainment Canada Summit and Awards; an event produced by The Hollywood Reporter in partnership with Access Media Canada. The summit featured a remarkable lineup of guests, including best-selling author Rachel Reid, whose novel Heated Rivalry inspired the major Canadian TV series.

The awards ceremony was a highlight, with notable honorees like Lilly Singh, who received the Equity in Entertainment Award. Lilly delivered a powerful speech on the real-world impact of representation in media while calling for genuine change in the industry.

Stacey...

It's time for a solo episode of reflections. Host Sarah Burke unpacks “the C word...”

Not that c word. COMMUNITY! Community celebrates you. Community humbles you. Community challenges you. Community will hold you accountable and show up for you when you least expect it. Let's dig in...

After an emotionally intense stretch of events, conversations, and industry moments, Sarah reflects on the complicated reality of building spaces designed to support women, creators, and independent voices. From the emotional labour of leadership to navigating boundaries, visibility, and expectations, this episode explores the parts of community-building people don’...

Host Sarah Burke sits down with veteran broadcaster Colleen Rusholme who reflects on the highs and lows of her 30 year career, the pivotal moments that shaped her voice, and the realities of working in an industry that hasn’t always been safe or equitable for women. With honesty and new clarity, she shares her experience navigating toxic environments, the courage it takes to speak out, and the personal toll of confronting past trauma.

Together, Sarah and Colleen explore the intersection of identity, resilience, and reinvention. From stepping away from daily radio to redefining success on her own te...

You know her as one of the most trusted voices in Canadian sports broadcasting - a veteran anchor at Rogers Sportsnet and that friendly voice you've come to love after a Blue Jays win (or loss). Off-camera and in the pages of her new book, there is a much more personal story about what happens when life shifts in a way you really can’t prepare for.

Her first time on this podcast, it was the shift to motherhood, but now she's reflecting on writing her first book, When the Game Changes. Evanka Osmak opens up about lo...

Recorded live at the Women in Music Canada Summit, this artist-to-artist conversation brings together two generations of trailblazers in pop and dance music. Host Sarah Burke moderates this discussion between Simone Denny —Canadian dance and house icon, 7x Juno nominee, 4x Juno winner, and Women in Music Career Achievement Award recipient—and LU KALA, Juno-nominated pop powerhouse behind the viral anthem “Pretty Girl Era” and a Billboard Rising Star honouree.

Together, they unpack what empowerment really feels like, how family, culture, and growing up in Toronto shaped their sound, and what it means to be Black wome...

This week on the Women in Media Podcast, we’re celebrating International Women’s Day and two milestones — five years of the podcast and two years of the Women in Media Network.

Host Sarah Burke reflects on the past year for women in media and culture, highlighting major headlines and powerful statistics about women’s growing influence across industries. From the explosive growth of women’s sports audiences to the rise of women-led podcasting, the numbers tell us women’s voices are shaping the future of media.

You’ll also hear from Women in Media Network creato...

Maureen Holloway returns to the Women in Media Podcast to update host Sarah Burke on another journey through breast cancer, reflections on her career in Canadian broadcasting, and her involvement in the Jennifer Valentyne human rights tribunal. 'Mo' shares her experiences with workplace harassment, calls out the behaviour of former colleagues, and discusses the importance of supporting women loudly, especially now. Of course, there are many laughs along the way. All in favour of Mo becoming a stand up comic, raise your hand...

More About Maureen Holloway:

Maureen Holloway is a fan...

Sarah Burke interviews Sarah Adams known as Mom.Uncharted online, and the host of a new podcast called Parents Uncharted. They discuss the impact of social media and technology on parenting, and the importance of digital privacy for children. Adams shares her insights on navigating screen time, the challenges of parenting in the digital age, and the evolution of her content creation approach. The conversation also touches on censorship, online safety, and the future of parenting discussions in the podcasting space.

Connect with Sarah Adams:

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://momuncharted.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/mom.uncharted/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Host Sarah Burke interviews Juliette Pelchat, a rising star in snowboarding and a first-time Olympic competitor for Team Canada. Juliette shares her journey leading up to the 2026 Winter Games, discussing her mental and physical preparation, the challenges she's faced, and her evolving mindset towards competition. She also reflects on her family dynamics, particularly her relationship with her father, snowboarding legend JF Pelchat, and his support navigating sponsorship opportunities and negotiating. She also talks about her sister Amalia and how together, they launched the Wild Kittens initiative to encourage women to get involved in board sports.

*Disclaimer* This episode features a discussion about sexual trauma. Listener discretion is advised.*

In Sarah Burke's first new episode of 2026, she welcomes friend and broadcast colleague Angela Stever. She shares her journey into comedy and writing, releasing a young adult fantasy novel titled Conquering the Divide: The Legend of Barsicon. They discuss Angela's journey from radio to writing, the challenges of self-promotion, and the personal experiences that shaped her storytelling. The conversation also touches on the creative process, the influence of other authors, and the importance of personal growth and healing after leaving a long-term career and...

Host Sarah Burke welcomes Megan Edwards and Amy Chabot, former broadcasters turned podcasters, to discuss their podcast, Bridges Burned. They explore themes of authenticity, the challenges faced by women in media, and the importance of sharing personal stories to empower others. They explore the impact of toxic work environments, and the significance of creating a safe space for storytelling.

More About the Hosts:

Amy Chabot spent over 15 years in radio, fueled by her love of music and storytelling. After more than a decade behind the studio mic, she traded it for a po...

Host Sarah Burke interviews Ebonnie Rowe, the founder and executive director of Honey Jam, a nonprofit artist development program for female artists. She shares her journey in the music industry, her passion for mentorship, and the challenges she has faced as a Black woman. The conversation highlights the importance of community, the evolution of Honey Jam, and the impact it has had on countless artists. Ebonnie shares her proudest moments, her influences, and her aspirations for the future of the music industry.

More About Ebonnie Rowe and Her Work:

Ebonnie's story begins...

This week's show will sound a little different! This episode features a Women in Media Network panel recorded live off the floor at PodSummit Calgary on September 19th!

In a podcasting world overflowing with content, authentic voices stand out, and make change.  This powerful panel brings together a group of unique podcasters and producers for an honest conversation on the importance of authentic voices in podcasting.

This conversation will explore what it really means to build a platform with integrity. The panel features award-winning artist and podcaster Jann Arden, who uses her mic to champion e...

Host Sarah Burke discusses media personality Jennifer Valentyne's high-stakes Human Rights Tribunal case in Canadian court this month, alleging gender discrimination and unsafe working conditions. Burke reflects on her own experiences and the systemic issues women face, emphasizing the importance of Valentyne's case for accountability and change.

Revisit the Jennifer Valentyne interview:

https://www.sarahburke.ca/women-in-media-podcast/ep57-jennifer-valentyne

https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/jennifer-valentyne-management-failed-corus-human-rights-tribunal-case-1.7653626

https://www.chrc-ccdp.gc.ca/

IF YOU HAVE A SIMILAR...

Sarah Burke welcomes back award-winning Anishinaabe/Mohawk storyteller Kim Wheeler, whose work has helped shape the sound of Indigenous media in Canada. She is a journalist, a producer, and a writer. 

Kim updates Sarah on her various shows (how many shows can one woman have!?) and her recent achievements in live television. She reflects on the significance of September 30th for Indigenous communities. shares personal stories about her daughters' careers in the film industry, and highlights the importance of storytelling in preserving Indigenous languages and cultures.

Kim sets up an episode drop of Words and C...

Host Sarah Burke interviews Jennifer Moroz, a podcast and content development specialist and journalist who is launching a new podcast, Furball Confidential. They discuss Jennifer's extensive career in media, her transition from CBC to independent podcasting, and the emotional connections people have with their pets. The conversation highlights the joy and changes that pets bring to our lives.

Follow and subscribe on your favourite podcast app!

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/furball-confidential/id1836662769

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5TkTxGzcGNKzhoEANaLT1d?si=982954c0c1b74c78&nd=1&dlsi=a7e74318e351438...

Host Sarah Burke interviews Naturopathic Doctor Anne Hussain about her new podcast, Phase to Phase: The Hormone Health Show. They discuss Dr. Hussain's journey into naturopathic medicine, the relationship between naturopathic medicine and our medical system, and the challenges women face in navigating all of the above. She discusses the complexities of menopause and perimenopause symptoms and care, and the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare through every phase (of life, and your cycle). Check out this new show on Women in Media Network this fall!

More About Dr. Anne Hussain and Phase to Phase:

Dr...

Host Sarah Burke welcomes junior network producer Maddison Buckingham to discuss her journey into broadcasting and the challenges she faces in the current media landscape and job market. They explore Maddy's experiences in the industry, including her documentary project that received award nominations alongside industry colleagues, and her aspirations for the future in content creation and social media. She also compares her experiences behind-the-scenes to public-facing positions in media, particularly in sports. They discuss the challenges of gender dynamics in the industry, the impact of imposter syndrome on new graduates, and the evolving landscape of media in the digital...

*Episode disclaimer: today's episode will discuss the recent Hockey Canada trial verdict and sexual abuse which some listeners may find triggering. Listener discretion is advised.*

Host Sarah Burke welcomes back Jennifer Dunn, Executive Director of the ⁠London Abused Women's Centre⁠ to discuss the recent acquittal of five former Team Canada World Junior Hockey Players in a high profile sexual assault case based in London, Ontario.

Dunn shares her emotional response to the verdict and walks the audience through implications for survivors, the challenges faced by victims in the legal system including EM, and the need for...

Sarah Burke interviews Jen Moss, the Chief Creative Officer and co-founder of JAR Podcast Solutions about her urgent call for Canadian podcast funding. They discuss the current state of the Canadian podcast industry, the challenges it faces, and the urgent need for government funding to support independent podcasting as a core cultural industry. Jen shares her insights on storytelling, the importance of authentic narratives, and the role of podcasts in shaping Canadian media. They also explore statistics on podcast listenership in Canada and propose solutions for enhancing support for independent creators.

More About Jen Moss:

...

Sarah Burke interviews broadcaster Tracy Moore at 80a Studios in Toronto as she explores a new chapter after 16 years hosting Cityline; a CityTV show that was recently cancelled after 40 years on the air. Tracy reflects on the show's cancellation, her grief process, and her newfound freedom. Tracy takes us back to finding her voice early in school, her journey into media, her experiences with racism, and her advocacy for body positivity and mental health. Tracy emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and vulnerability, sharing her struggles with postpartum depression and body image. She also speaks about the importance of family...

This is a bonus episode of the Women in Media Podcast; a feed drop from the hosts of Late in 88 discussing Bronwin's recent journey receiving gender-affirming surgery & care.

*This conversation was originally recorded for their feed but they had to pivot for a grant which allows them to create the next season in a much more interesting way than two heads talking online! Together, we decided this conversation was too important to shelve, especially during pride month.*

In this episode, hosts Bronwin and Elinor return from a break to reflect on the impact of their...

Host Sarah Burke interviews director, producer, and writer Robin Bicknell about her career in media and her latest documentary series, Secrets of the Bunny Ranch. They discuss the impact of HBO's Cathouse, the misrepresentation and exploitation of sex workers in media, and the importance of personal stories in documentary filmmaking. Robin shares her journey into the industry, her experiences as a woman in media, and the mental health challenges faced while conducting interviews. The conversation highlights the resilience of women and the need for empathetic storytelling in the media.

More About Robin Bicknell:

Based in...

Host Sarah Burke speaks with Paulette Erato, a leader in the podcasting world and founder of Latinas in Podcasting. They discuss Paulette's journey into podcasting, the importance of representation, and the creation of a supportive community for child-free Latinas. Paulette shares her experiences at podcasting conferences, the challenges of societal expectations, and the evolution of her podcasting community.

More About Paulette:

Paulette Erato is a dynamic leader in the podcasting world, dedicated to amplifying Latina voices and empowering women to take charge of their narratives. As the founder and organizer of the L...

Host Sarah Burke interviews Riley Nimens, an award-winning media professional, freelance events and television producer. They discuss Riley's career from working with the CBC and CTV's W5 to her freelance work in news, live events, and documentary production. Riley shares insights on the challenges and rewards of freelancing, her work at major events like the Olympics and FIFA World Cup, and her passion for storytelling through projects like 'Dear Taliban'. The conversation also explores the evolving media landscape.

More About Riley Nimens:

Riley Nimens is a multi-award-winning producer, director, and business strategist known for her...

Host Sarah Burke interviews Cristina Howorun about her journey from traffic reporter to award-winning journalist at City TV, despite her health challenges. Cristina discusses kidney disease and her experience getting a kidney transplant which eventually began to fail. She finds herself going through the same search to find a living donor as she faces kidney failure again. Cristina emphasizes the importance of mentorship and support from other women in the industry, and she highlights her commitment to investigative journalism and social issues.

More About Cristina Howorun:

After earning a Master’s degree in Political Studies fr...

Host Sarah Burke catches up with Alicia Chirrey, the Series Producer of Dragon's Den. They discuss Alicia's journey from intern to series producer, the evolution of female entrepreneursip on the show, and the inspiring stories of resilience from Canadians. Alicia shares insights into the casting process for the upcoming 20th season, the role of the 'Dragons', and the importance of supporting Canadian businesses.

More About Alicia Chirrey:

As Series Producer of Dragons' Den, Alicia oversees all content-related aspects of the production, from casting and creative direction to ensuring each episode delivers a...

Host Sarah Burke and journalist Karen S. Pugliese sit down in Chicago's Midway airport to test out some new mini mics and discuss the state of media, journalism & podcasting after attending the Podcast Movement Evolutions conference and speaking on a panel about opportunities in Canadian podcasting. Karyn shares her journey in journalism, highlighting her experiences in both broadcasting and podcasting. She speaks about her early work on the podcast, The Disappearance of Natasha Lynn Star, which garnered significant attention. They also discuss the challenges faced by women in media, including the impact of Rachel Gilmore's experience having an election...

Host Sarah Burke discusses the recent elimination of the Minister for Women and Gender Equality in Canada with guests Jacqueline Neapole and Debbie Owusu-Akyeeah, two feminist leaders fighting to reinstate the position and better support the advancement of women and gender equality around the world.

They reflect on the implications of this decision amidst the backdrop of the UN Women's Rights Summit, where they were advocating for gender equality. They highlight the mobilization of feminist organizations, the role of youth in shaping the future, and the urgent call for reinstatement of the ministerial role...

Host Sarah Burke brings light to some important conversations recently brought forward by media colleagues. Kudos to Erica Ehm for writing this straight-up article for International Women's Day about the 'echo-chamber' problem. Thank you to Rachel Gilmore for speaking up and sticking with journalism, despite those who have tried to intimidate her to stop sharing important Canadian perspectives. Thank you to Taylor Kaye who shared her family tragedy on Cynthia and Josie's unmentionables so we can all confront some thoughts we may not otherwise face!

Further reading / listening from this episode:

Erica's...

Host Sarah Burke speaks with Red, a popular Toronto radio personality. Red takes us back to the beginning, being part of the launch of Canada's first Black-owned radio station and the excitement as artists like Jay-Z and Rihanna came through the doors at the old Flow 93.5. Red shares memorable experiences, the challenges of transitioning through career changes, and the importance of authenticity in her personal and professional life. Sarah and Red explore the nuances of navigating opportunities in the media landscape, the evolution of podcasting and radio, and the importance of representation and community connection.

Sarah Burke interviews Sherley Joseph, the co-founder of The Chonilla Network and the woman behind the 'Black Canadian Creators" Podcast and community. Graduating from broadcast school alongside the likes of Sid Seixeiro and George Stroumboulopoulos, Sherley always enjoyed working behind the scenes in production. More recently she stepped into power creating a dedicated community for Black Canadian Creators while helping many other podcasters along their way. It all started with a podcast co-hosted with her husband in which they explored how unique their experiences were as an interracial couple.

Sherley shares her journey through p...

Host Sarah Burke reflects on the great conversations, special guests, and lessons learned through one hundred episodes of the Women in Media Podcast. She discusses the purpose behind her podcast, its evolution, and the empowerment that comes from independence in content creation. Throughout the episode, Sarah shares memorable moments and insights from listeners, friends and colleagues who have played a role in creating both the Women in Media Network and community.

Leave a voicenote:

https://www.womeninmedia.network/show/women-in-media/voicemail/

Women in Media Listeners get 41% off...