To North Bay With Love

On this episode of To North Bay With Love, Kate sits down with John Hetherington, her former history teacher at West Ferris. The two look back on the many memories including a school trip to Malaysia where they got lost in the jungle.

John shares how became a teacher in North Bay including the chance meeting with Bob Surtees that set him on the path to Nipissing University.

He also talks about how his summer travels and battlefield tours with students grew into his work today, leading tours in Europe for adults.

0:00 Intro
2:12 J...

In this episode of To North Bay With Love, we mark Foster Family Appreciation Week by sitting down with local foster parent Alicia Freeman to talk about what foster parenting really looks like.

Alicia shares her experience of welcoming children into her home, the emotional challenges that come with fostering, and why getting attached is not something to fear.

She also explains the importance of supporting biological families, helping children stay connected to their communities, and working toward reunification whenever possible.

If you are interested in fostering in the Nipissing & Parry Sound area, you...

In this episode of To North Bay With Love, Kate sits down with John, better known online as natty _for_now, the local creator who has become a familiar face around North Bay with a basketball in hand and a balance board nearby.

John shares how picking up a basketball again after decades away from the game turned into a new fitness routine, a creative outlet, and an unexpected social media following.

He talks about finding an audience on TikTok, being recognized around the city, connecting with younger fans, and why he isn’t afraid to sh...

In this episode of To North Bay With Love, David and Azu from North Bay Games and Hobbies join the conversation to talk about the store, the local gaming community, and why board games and tabletop gaming continue to grow in popularity.

They share the history of the shop, how gaming has changed over the years, and why games like Dungeons & Dragons, Warhammer, Catan, and trading card games continue to bring people together.


0:00 Intro
4:49 Why Board Games Are Growing
11:23 Game Nights & In-Store Play
16:00 The Return of Dungeons & Dragons
27:02 Building an Inclusive...

In this episode of To North Bay With Love, North Bay Symphony Orchestra conductor Josh Wood shares his journey into music and gives a behind the scenes look at what it really takes to lead an orchestra.

Josh breaks down what a conductor is actually doing on stage, from keeping time and cueing musicians to shaping the volume, tempo, style, and overall interpretation of a piece.

He also talks about the preparation that happens before a performance and why no two performances are ever exactly the same.

0:00 Intro
8:47 What Does a Conductor Do?<...

In this episode of To North Bay With Love, Kevin Oschefski shares the story behind his journey in radio, his connection to North Bay, and the experiences that have shaped him both on and off the air.

Kevin talks about how a love of music led him into broadcasting, the unexpected path that eventually put him behind the microphone, and the community work that has become one of the most meaningful parts of his career.

He also opens up about his family’s experience with breast cancer, the lessons that came from supporting his wife through tr...

Have you ever caught yourself thinking, "I can't be the only one"?

In this episode of To North Bay With Love, local author Chantal Degagne shares the inspiration behind her book "I Can't Be the Only One Who..."

After losing both of her parents just weeks apart, Chantal discovered that the feelings, quirks, habits, and experiences we often think make us different are actually what connect us.

She explains how conversations with strangers and loved ones turned into a collection of stories that remind us we're never as alone as we think.

0:00...

In this episode of To North Bay With Love, Kate sits down with Kevin Smith, chair of the West Ferris Secondary School 55th Reunion, to talk about the memories, friendships, and community connections that make a high school reunion so much more than just a weekend event.

Kevin shares how the reunion came together, what attendees can expect over the three-day celebration, and why reconnecting in person matters more than ever.

0:00 – Intro
5:10 – Planning a Reunion for Every Generation
10:13 – School Tours & A Walk Down Memory Lane
20:02 – Why Reconnecting in Person Still Matters
33:32 – Kevin's Favourite...

In this episode of To North Bay With Love, Kate sits down with North Bay musician Paul Pruneau for a conversation about a lifetime of music, community, and following your passion.

Paul reflects on his journey from winning music competitions as a young performer to recording at Montreal's iconic RCA Studios, while balancing a successful career as an electrician and business owner.

He shares stories from decades on stage, the bands he's played with, the mentors who shaped him, and why performing for the North Bay community continues to bring him joy.

0:00 How Paul's...

In this episode of To North Bay With Love, Kate sits down with Darren Patey from Northeastern Ontario Tourism to explore some of North Bay's best kept secrets.

From the historic La Vase Portages canoe route and hidden hiking trails to local experiences, outdoor adventures, and family-friendly activities, Darren shares the stories that make North Bay and the surrounding region so special.

They also dive into tourism across Northeastern Ontario, why more people are discovering the North, and how locals can see their own backyard through a new lens.

0:00 – Intro
11:31 – The Hidden History of L...

In this episode of To North Bay With Love, Amanda Cooley shares the story behind the Northern Skies Wellness Festival and how a simple idea grew into a community celebration of wellness, connection, and self-care.

We talk about what to expect at the festival, Amanda's journey through yoga and travel, and what brought her back home to North Bay after living and studying around the world.

Along the way, she reflects on the importance of slowing down, building community, and creating space to reconnect with ourselves and each other.

0:00 – Intro
5:34 – More Than Yoga: A Fu...

In this episode of To North Bay With Love, we sit down with Katina Connolly and Dan Misturada from the Capitol Centre to talk about the launch of the highly anticipated 2026–27 season. 

From major touring acts and sold-out performances to community theatre, visual arts, and the return of Bay Block Party, this conversation highlights just how important the Capitol Centre is to Northern Ontario’s arts and culture scene.

We also take a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into planning an entire season of programming, how the Capitol Centre balances concerts, local productions, gallery exhibitions, and commu...

In this episode of To North Bay With Love, we celebrate new beginnings, old friendships, and the stories that connect this community together.

Lisa takes a look back at the journey of the podcast over the past three years, reflecting on the conversations, memorable guests, and the incredible people who make North Bay such a unique place to call home. From stories about the Capitol Centre and local arts scene to life in real estate, flooding in the city, potholes, movie nostalgia, and community memories.

The biggest news of all is the official introduction of Kate...

In this episode of To North Bay With Love, we step into a wedding like no other.

We’re joined by Kayla Valender of the Gateway Theatre Guild and the mother of the bride Josephine to talk about their upcoming production of Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding, an immersive, interactive experience where the audience is not just watching the show, they are part of it.

Set in the 1980s, this lively performance invites guests to attend the ceremony, join the reception, and experience all the laughter, drama, and unexpected moments that come with a big Italian weddin...

In this episode of To North Bay With Love, we sit down with Brigitte Lebel for a thoughtful conversation about grief, care, and the importance of community.

Brigitte’s work focuses on supporting people through some of the most difficult moments in their lives. Whether someone is navigating loss, emotional hardship, or major life transitions, her approach is rooted in compassion, listening, and meeting people exactly where they are.

We talk about how grief shows up in many different forms, why having safe spaces to talk matters, and how communities like North Bay can play an im...

In this episode, we sit down with Kathryn Wood and Amanda Horn from the North Bay Choral Society to talk about music, community, and the power of singing together.

The choir has grown from 25 members to nearly 75 voices strong since covid, and their upcoming spring concert is an all-Canadian celebration featuring beloved classics, Indigenous pieces, local talent, and a few surprises along the way.

Find out more of their upcoming performance in April here: https://www.northbaychoral.com/upcoming-performances

0:00 Intro
6:28 – From 25 to 75 Voices 
11:00 – Taking the Concert on Tour 
18:19 – Concert Dates & How to Join

At just 22 years old, Destiny Martin is learning what it really means to build a life on her own terms.

In this episode, she talks about how her future in social work and why it's important for her, how she started her own business on the side and her love of horses.

We chat about what it’s like to start a business from scratch, the challenges of being young and ambitious, and how growing up around entrepreneurs shaped the way she thinks about work and life.

0:00 Intro
5:00 Why She Chose Social Work

Building a business from the ground up takes passion, long hours, and a deep connection to the people it serves. Knowing when it’s time to step away can be just as challenging.

In this episode we sit down with Dale Luckey the founder of Blendz. She reflects on how the store came to life, what it meant to her and the community, and how she reached the decision to let go.

She also shares the next chapter in her life, including exploring new creative paths, embracing change, and opening herself up to new adventures and op...

It all started with a few students talking about musicals in their dorm rooms. Now, they’re writing, directing, and performing full productions on campus.

In this episode, we chat with Danielle Denault, Megan Covell and Quinn Staines who are members of the Nipissing University Theatre Guild.

They share what it took to start the club, how they pulled off their first shows, and what it's like to build something from the ground up while juggling student life.

Get your tickets for their production of "Grease" here: https://nutheatre.booktix.ca/

0:00 – Intro

In this episode, we chat with Danielle, the artist behind Monarch Body Art by Danielle, a business that’s been bringing colour, creativity, and joy to events all around North Bay.

Danielle talks about how her love for art and working with people led her to start painting faces at parties and community events. What started as a fun side gig has grown into something much more. Something that spreads happiness, encourages self-expression, and makes people of all ages feel seen and celebrated.

0:00 Intro
:15 Clown Giggles & Balloon Dogs
7:10 Techniques, Tools, and Rainbow Cakes
13:25 Bi...

As the year wraps up, we’re taking a moment to look back at everything that made 2025 such a memorable one for the Echo Podcast Network.

In this episode the Echo team gets together to reflect on the year that was, the guests and topics we want to tackle in 2026 and when is it too late to do your Christmas shopping?

Good Atlas is a creative space, a supply shop, a gallery and a place built on intention, emotion, and community.

 In this episode, we sit down with Colin Davis, the artist and entrepreneur behind it all alongside his partner. He shares how Good Atlas came to life, what drives his work, and why creating a space that welcomes curiosity and conversation matters so much to him.

We talk about the feeling behind the art, the purpose of keeping things a little open-ended, and how the shop supports both experienced artists and beginners alike.

Check o...

In this episode, we sit down with Haley, the founder of Oak & Willow, to talk about how a simple idea for toilet pods turned into a business that's changing the way people think about everyday products.

Haley shares how she created and grew a brand that puts people and the planet first. We talk about the moment her products went viral, the chaos that followed, and how she kept her values front and center through it all.

Find more about Oak & Willow Here: https://www.oakandwillow.store/


2:00 – Why this isn’t just a soap...

Talbots Throwbacks is one of those places that makes you stop and look around. Vintage clothing, classic records and one-of-a-kind finds everywhere you turn. At the heart of it all is Ben Talbot, a young vintage curator who turned his love for design and nostalgia into a full-on storefront in downtown North Bay.

In this episode, Ben shares how Talbots Throwbacks began in his basement, what keeps him hunting for great pieces, and why curating a vibe matters just as much as selling furniture.

We talk music, collecting, small business, and what it means to build...

What happens when you give people the tools, space, and support to build whatever they imagine?

In this episode, we visit the Near North Makerspace, a community-powered hub in downtown North Bay where people of all ages come together to learn, create, and collaborate.

From 3D printing and laser cutting to sewing machines and soldering irons, this space is all about turning ideas into reality.

Yaa Clark, one of the passionate minds behind the project, shares how the Makerspace got started, what it offers, and why it's become such a valuable part of the...

What does a hundred years of history look like on one sheet of paper?

In this episode, we sit down with Kevin Hoffman, the artist behind the poster that captures 100 years of North Bay.

He shares how the project came to life, the meaning behind the illustrations, and the hidden nods to people and places that have shaped the city. 

We’re also joined by Katie Bevan from The FARM, who is selling the poster at her store and celebrating 15 years of business!

She talks about the downtown and some of the nea...

In this episode, we sit down with Nadiia, a teacher, mother, and North Bay community member who recently earned the title of Mrs. Universe TCP 2026. But her story is about much more than a crown.

Originally from Ukraine, Nadiia shares her journey of immigrating to Canada, adapting to a new culture, and building a life rooted in service, strength, and self-discovery.

We talk about her career in education, the meaning behind her pageant win, and how she balances parenting, public speaking, and personal growth.

0:00 – Intro
5:00 – From Ukraine to Canada
12:00 – How she got invite...

For many years, Peetr Nickle has been the steady hand behind the soundboard at the Capitol Centre. If you've been to a concert, a play, or a community event in North Bay, chances are Peetr was making sure it all sounded just right.

In this episode, we sit down with Peetr to hear how he got started in live sound, what it's really like to run tech for everything from rock shows to kids' theatre, and why mentoring young people has become such a meaningful part of his work.

0:00 Intro
4:30 How Peetr got started in...

Ohana Wellness is more than a yoga studio. It’s a place where people come to breathe, move, and feel like they belong.

In this episode, we sit down with founder Nicky Poulin, who shares how her own journey through burnout and personal growth led to the creation of Ohana.

Nicky is joined by co-owner Dr. Aaron Rothstein who talked about his journey from being and ER doctor to finding a new path in life and a different way to take care of patients.

0:00 – Welcome to Ohana Wellness
4:15 – Why community is at the heart...

Leisure Farms has become a fall tradition for families across Northern Ontario, but behind the wagon rides and pumpkin cannons is a story of deep community roots, family legacy, and the hard work that makes it all happen.

In this episode, we visit Leisure Farms to chat with Mitch who is at the heart of the farming operations. From the early days of strawberry picking to building a year-round agri-tourism destination, this is a look at what it really takes to grow a farm that feeds and entertains generations.

0:00 Welcome to Leisure Farms
4:30 How it...

In a world that constantly pushes for perfection and productivity, what does it mean to just be human?

In this episode, we sit down with Brooke Bertrand, a psychotherapist and the founder of Bright Raven Psychotherapy and Consulting, to talk about real mental health, messy emotions, and how therapy can be more than just a weekly appointment.

Brooke opens up about burnout, boundaries, and why we need to stop chasing balance and start looking for flow instead.

00:00 Intro
04:10 What brought her to psychotherapy
09:30 Burnout and the myth of doing it all
14:45...

In this episode, we sit down with Coral Bissett, Programs and Administration Manager at the Canadian Ecology Centre and certified teacher & forest school practitioner, to explore the OWLS program.

Designed for students, OWLS blends science, leadership, and outdoor experiences to create life-changing learning far beyond the walls of a school.

Coral shares how the program works, what students walk away with, and why outdoor education can reach learners in ways traditional models often can’t.



0:00 Intro
10:30 What is OWLS?
26:00 Teaching "risky" play to children
50:00 What does an OWLS session lo...

Ever wonder what it's like to turn your hometown into a movie set?

In this episode, Kelly from Hideaway Pictures shares what really goes on behind the scenes of those cozy, small-town movies you see on TV. We talk about filming Christmas scenes in the middle of summer, working with fake snow, and what it's like managing a movie set in North Bay.

She also opens up about switching careers, building something from the ground up, and how the local film scene has brought new life and energy to the community.

In this episode, we sat down with Jay and Yeshi from The Dipped Moose, the newest store in North Bay that is mixing chocolate with art.

Yeshi and Jay share the story behind The Dipped Moose, where the name came from, and how they found each other half way across the world!

Check out their instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/thedippedmoose/ 


05:30 Yeshi and Jay's story
11:30 Turning creativity into a chocolate shop
18:00 The art behind the chocolate
26:00 The future

What do a missed voyage on the Titanic and a single curly horse have to do with one of Northern Ontario’s most beloved ranches?

In this episode, Elana von Doeler shares the story behind her family’s ranch. A place built by hand, powered by horses, and shaped by generations of hard work and heart.

The Von Doeler Ranch is more than just land and animals. It’s a legacy built on resilience, family, and love for what they do.

0:00 Intro
4:30 How the ranch came to life
10:00 Training horses and rebuilding trust<...

Joe Clément is a travel filmmaker, content creator, and storyteller who helps people experience the world through honest and emotional video.

His work focuses on real people, real places, and capturing the feeling of being there. In this episode, Joe shares how he built a career with a camera, what makes a travel video truly meaningful, and the lessons he has learned from working all over the world.

From drone mishaps to dream clients, this is an inside look at the creative life on the move.

00:00 Intro
02:15 Meet Joe Clement
06:30 Starting o...

What do you get when you mix fantasy novels, a love of odd things, and the courage to start fresh? You get The Wizard's Nook & Oddities, one of the most unique little shops to hit downtown North Bay.

In this episode, we chat with owner Paul Mathon, who took the leap of faith into entrepreneurship to open something completely his own.

We talk about what inspired him to take the leap, how he built a space that feels more like a fantasy world than a store, and why community and creativity matter more now than ever.<...

What do local musicians go through when the lights go down and the crowd goes home?

In this episode, Samanta Izquierdo shares the story behind Sound Trippers, her brand-new Bell Fibe TV1 series that follows musicians from Northern Ontario as they share their lives, struggles, and passion for music.

We talk about the importance of showing real stories and why the behind-the-scenes moments matter just as much as what’s on stage. 


04:00 – What Inspired Sound Trippers
08:00 – Pitching the Show 
13:00 – The Artists Featured in Season 1
18:00 – Why This Show Had to Be Made
24...

When you drop off a bag of clothes at a donation bin, you probably don’t think much about where it ends up. But at Rebuilt Resources, every sweater, sock, and pair of jeans is part of something much bigger.

In this episode, we meet Maureen Brazeau, the incredible woman behind this North Bay non-profit that’s been helping people find employment, build confidence, and keep thousands of pounds of clothing out of the landfill for over 30 years.

0:00 Intro
2:20 What Rebuilt Resources actually does
7:00 How donations become jobs and training 
13:00 Common donation mistakes
...

In this episode, Alisha Audrey shares her journey from working in healthcare to becoming a full-time content creator. We talk about burnout, identity, and the moment she knew it was time for something new.

Alisha opens up about building a platform based on real connection, how she stays grounded in an online world, and why trusting her instincts led to her most fulfilling work yet.

This episode was filmed inside The Lodge at Homewood Suites by Hilton North Bay. Book your next visit here: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/yybnohw-homewood-suites-north-bay/ 

02:40 Alisha’s journey fro...