Episoder
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In this first episode of a special three-part series with the Guelph Public Library, we explore how libraries are transforming into vital third spacesâoffering not just books, but life-saving support, community care, and inclusive spaces for all.
Support Growing Guelph - https://www.patreon.com/growingguelph
Host Jordan Sloggett speaks with Samantha Wellhauser-Bells, Main Library Branch Supervisor at the Guelph Public Library, and Alex Cairney, Outreach Worker with the Welcoming Streets Initiative. Together, they discuss:
The evolving role of libraries as inclusive, public third spacesThe importance of harm reduction supports, including free naloxone kitsReal stories of community support, recovery, and connectionBuilding empathy, safety, and wellbeing in public spacesHow partnerships like Welcoming Streets and the library are changing livesThis episode highlights the human stories behind public policy, the essential services libraries provide beyond books, and how collaboration can lead to safer, healthier communities.
Guests this episode:Samantha Wellhauser-Bells is the Main Library Branch Supervisor at Guelph Public Library. With a background in public service and a deep commitment to equity and inclusion, Samantha helps guide the libraryâs role as a vital, welcoming community space.
Alex Cairney (he/him) is an Outreach Worker with the Welcoming Streets Initiative, where he works to support vulnerable individuals in downtown Guelph. Alex and his team provide compassionate, on-the-ground assistance, de-escalation, and connections to critical services.
Relevant Links:Guelph Public Library â About Us - https://www.guelphpl.ca/en/about-us/about-us.aspx?_mid_=33528Naloxone Kits Now Available at Guelph Library â GuelphToday.com - https://www.guelphtoday.com/local-news/guelph-library-giving-out-naloxone-spray-kits-at-main-branch-10455430Welcoming Streets Initiative â Guelph CHC - https://guelphchc.ca/welcoming-streets/Welcoming Streets Evaluation Report (PDF) - https://guelphchc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/Guelph-Welcoming-Streets-Initiative-Evaluation.pdfHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Support Growing Guelph on Patreon - https://patreon.com/growingguelph
Connect with Kendall
Website: itsokaystudio.comInstagram: instagram.com/itsokaystudio/On this episode of Growing Guelph, I talk with Kendall Kent â designer, creative thinker, and the heart behind Itâs Okay Studio. Youâll hear the story of her Brand Giveaway (where she provides pro bono design support to local businesses doing good) and how that project connects to bigger questions sheâs exploring: mental health, creativity, AI, work styles, and how we navigate living and working in Guelph.
We dive into:
Kendallâs journey into design and how sheâs using her skills to empower community-minded businessesWhat she learned from executing her first Brand Giveaway (the Refill Bar was her winner!)The role of AI tools in creative lives â pros, ethics, and the psychological sideThe landscape of mental health, isolation, generational differences, and how creativity sometimes becomes a form of reflectionQuestions of free will, the intersection of psychology and branding, and how she balances the abstract with the everydayHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Manglende episoder?
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Anna Morozova & Bobby Raffin â Guelph Fashion Week â Stitching Community Together
In this episode, we sit down with Anna Morozova and Bobby Raffin, the duo behind the first-ever Guelph Fashion Week. We talk about what it takes to launch a fashion week in a city known more for its farmersâ market than runways, and how fashion, sustainability, and collaboration are all woven into this new event.
Guelph Fashion week kicks off this week on Thursday Sept 18th.
Links & Mentions:
Guelph Fashion Week on Instagram - http://instagram.com/guelphfashionweek/
Anna Morozova â @iamannamorozova
Anna's Event Agency: @wearenewsociety
Bobby Raffin â @bobbyraffin
Bobby's Shop Three Pieces: @three.pieces.ca
Guelph Fashion Week Tickets:
Eventbrite â Guelph Fashion Week
Media Coverage:
GuelphToday â Guelph is getting its first Fashion Week
Support Growing Guelph on Patreon - https://patreon.com/growingguelph
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Teresa Johnston (coârun director) and her sister Sue Wilkinson (social media & comms) join me on the podcast to share their familyâs story and how the Guelph Run for the Cure is growing as it moves to the University of Guelph this October. We cover what event day looks like, why you donât have to run to take part, and simple ways to register, donate, or volunteer. This year the Guelph Run for the Cure takes place on Sunday October 5th, 2025.
LinksRegister / Donate / Volunteer (Canadian Cancer Society â CIBC Run for the Cure) - https://support.cancer.ca/site/TR/RunfortheCure/RFTC_NW_even_?pg=entry&fr_id=30461Facebook: @RunfortheCureGuelph - https://www.facebook.com/RunfortheCureGuelph/Instagram: @runforthecure_guelph - https://www.instagram.com/runforthecure_guelph/TikTok: @guelphrun - https://www.tiktok.com/@guelphrunSupport Growing Guelph on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/GrowingGuelphHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Episode Description:
In this episode, I sat down with to speak with Randy Freese of the Guelph Indigenous Community Council (GICC) about identity, land, and community. Randy shares his personal journey, the origins and mission of the GICC, and what it means to decolonize spaces and systems in Guelph today.
Whether youâre new to the work of reconciliation or deeply involved in local activism, this conversation offers insight, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of Guelphâs Indigenous landscape.
Links:
Guelph Indigenous Community Council Website: https://gindigenouscc.org
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GuelphIndigenousCC
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gicc_ontario/
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Support Growing Guelph on Patreon!
If you enjoy Growing Guelph and want to help support local storytelling, Iâve launched a Patreon!
For as little as a buck a month, youâll get early, ad-free episodes, the chance to submit questions for guests, and help shape future topics.
Itâs totally optional, but it helps keep this project going â and growing.
đ Check it out at patreon.com/growingguelph
In this episode, I talk with longtime local advocate P. Brian Skerrett about the vision for a new national urban park on the historic Guelph Reformatory lands. We explore Brianâs deep connection to the site, his work with Heritage Guelph, and the heritage designation under the Ontario Heritage Act that is shaping the future of this space.
We dive into the rich and complex legacy of the reformatory itself, the early roots of judicial reform in Canada, and why preserving this land mattersânot just historically, but socially and ecologically. Brian shares his recent work with Guelph Museums, a public exhibit and walking tour, and the collaborative design efforts by Gareth Lind of Lind Design in support of the movement.
Our conversation touches on the evolving relationship with local government, the role of organizations like the Yorklands Green Hub and the Guelph Hiking Trail Club, and the possibility of linking Guelphâs river and green spaces into one connected ecological corridor. We also discuss Indigenous history at the site, the legacy of the âNative Sons,â and broader themes of incarceration and reconciliation in Canada.
As Guelph approaches its bicentennial in 2027, this project offers a chance to reflect on how land, history, and community can come together. We close with a look at how listeners can help support and shape the future of this vital green space.
Links
Urban Park Guelph initiative: urbanparkguelph.com
Brianâs recent walking tour with Guelph Museums: Explore the Reformatory Grounds
Want to help shape future episodes or support the show?
đ Join the community on Patreon
Thanks for listening to Growing Guelph â where we celebrate the people shaping a stronger, more connected city.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, I sat down with Guelph-based singer-songwriter CJ Cooper about the power of music to process emotion, the influence of growing up in Guelph, and how songwriting has evolved in the digital age. We also explore what goes into building a community-centered concert series, as CJ prepares for the third annual Women in Music showcase at Red Brick Café on Aug 2nd 2025.
đ§ Support Growing Guelph on Patreon!
If you enjoy Growing Guelph and want to help support local storytelling, Iâve launched a Patreon!
For as little as a buck a month, youâll get early, ad-free episodes, the chance to submit questions for guests, and help shape future topics.
Itâs totally optional, but it helps keep this project going â and growing.
Check it out at patreon.com/growingguelph
Topics We Cover:How Guelph has shaped CJâs music and careerThe role of emotion and storytelling in her songwritingMaking music in todayâs digital worldThe behind-the-scenes of organizing a local music showcaseWhatâs in store for the upcoming Women in Music concertAdvice for local creatives looking to make an impactEvent Info:Women in Music Concert
đ Red Brick CafĂ©, Guelph
đ August 2, 1â4 p.m. 2025
đ $10 at the door
Featuring performances by CJ Cooper and musicians Natalie Grace, Mela Bee, Miranda Journey, with proceeds going to Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis.
Connect with CJ Cooper:Website: cjcoopermusic.comInstagram: @cjcooperofficialYouTube: CJ Cooper MusicSpotify: CJ Cooper on SpotifyTikTok: @cjcooperofficialFacebook: CJ Cooper Official MusicHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode of Growing Guelph, we sit down with Dr. Anne-Marie Zajdlikâfamily physician, HIV/AIDS advocate, global health leader, and recent Green Party candidate in the 2025 federal election. Dr. Zajdlik shares stories from her early days treating patients during the HIV/AIDS crisis in Guelph, founding the regionâs first HIV clinic, and launching the Bracelet of Hope campaign that raised over $1 million to combat HIV in Lesotho.
đ§ Support Growing Guelph on Patreon!
If you enjoy Growing Guelph and want to help support local storytelling, Iâve launched a Patreon!
For as little as a buck a month, youâll get early, ad-free episodes, the chance to submit questions for guests, and help shape future topics.
Itâs totally optional, but it helps keep this project going â and growing.
Check it out at patreon.com/growingguelph
In this episodes conversation we talk about what it means to respond to a health crisis with compassion, what society has (and hasnât) learned from past pandemics, and how those lessons shape her approach to politics and community care today. Dr. Zajdlik reflects on her entry into the political arena, why the Green Party aligns with her values, and even hints at a possible run for mayor of Guelph.
This conversation explores the intersections of health, leadership, and historyâand invites listeners to consider what it really means to build a resilient, caring city.
Topics We Cover:
Dr. Zajdlikâs medical journey and early work during the HIV/AIDS crisisFounding ARCH Clinic and launching Bracelet of HopePublic health lessons from the COVID-19 pandemicHer political awakening and Green Party candidacyThe connection between healthcare, housing, and climate policyGlobal experiences that shaped her local commitmentsđ± Learn More Links:
Bracelet of HopeDr. Zajdlikâs Green Party CampaignARCH Clinic GuelphHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode of Growing Guelph, I sit down with Stephanie Scapinello, founder of Strawberry Sunshine â a handmade candle business that has grown into a community hub for makers, artists, and dreamers in Guelph.
đ§ Support Growing Guelph on Patreon!
If you enjoy Growing Guelph and want to help support local storytelling, Iâve launched a Patreon!
For as little as a buck a month, youâll get early, ad-free episodes, the chance to submit questions for guests, and help shape future topics.
Itâs totally optional, but it helps keep this project going â and growing.
Check it out at patreon.com/growingguelph
In this episode we explore how Stephanie discovered her creative drive during the pandemic and turned it into a thriving business. She shares how her background in finance helped turn her dream into a reality, the importance of local support, and all the help she received along the way. We also dig into how she creates a platform for other artisans through shared space and workshops, her ancestral connection to candle-making, and the deep sense of purpose sheâs found in giving back to Guelph.
Whether youâre a maker, entrepreneur, or just curious about what fuels small business owners in this city, Stephanieâs story is an inspiring reminder of the power of community, creativity, and courage.
Links from the episode:
đ Strawberry Sunshine Website
đ Strawberry Sunshine on Guelph Shops
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode of Growing Guelph, host Jordan Sloggett is joined by Grace Sant, Host Farms, Outreach and Education Manager at the Donkey Sanctuary of Canada. Grace offers a deep and heartfelt look into the world of donkeysâexploring why these often-misunderstood animals need sanctuary, how they differ from horses and mules, and what it takes to care for them with compassion and respect.
We dive into:
The Donkey Sanctuaryâs mission and historyDonkeys' unique needs and personalitiesThe role of international and Canadian partnerships in their growthHow the Guelph community can get involved and support their workWhether you're an animal lover or just curious about a hidden gem in our region, this episode is full of inspiring insights and a few surprises from the world of donkeys.
đïž Correction on the date for PACEâit's September 28th, not the 29th."
Relevant Links:Donkey Sanctuary of Canada WebsiteOur People â Donkey Sanctuary TeamCaring for Donkeys in Canada WebinarsGuelphToday: Donkey Sanctuary Slams RONA AdGCVI ABBA Benefit Show for the Donkey SanctuarySanctuary Growth from $2.5 Million DonationHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, host Jordan Sloggett talks with Samantha Hicks and Kriti Murthy from the Guelph Climate Action Network (GCAN) about the emotional side of climate workâand how community, empathy, and education play key roles in moving from awareness to action.
We explore GCANâs two key programs:
đ Climate Fresk â a collaborative, science-based workshop that breaks down the complexities of climate change
đ Climate Circles â a space for people to process the emotions that come with climate grief, anxiety, and hope
Kriti and Sam share their personal motivations, the importance of caring deeply, and how GCAN is building a more connected and climate-conscious Guelph.
Links & Resources:
đ Guelph Climate Action Network Website: https://www.guelphcan.cađ° GCAN Newsletter: Subscribe heređž GCAN on Instagram: @guelphcanđ GCAN Facebook Group: Guelph Climate Action Network â Facebookđ° GuelphToday article â Climate Circles explore emotions tied to climate change: Read heređ° GuelphToday article â GCAN refocuses on community climate initiatives: Read hereHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode I'm speaking to Glynis Hamilton, Principal and Founder of the Montessori School of Wellington, and Rayna Lew, Office Administratorâand Glynis' daughter. Together, they offer a unique look inside this long-standing Montessori school in Guelph.
We talk about what sets Montessori education apart, how it fosters independence and lifelong learning, and what itâs like to run a school as a mother-daughter team. Whether you're a parent, educator, or just curious about alternative education models, this conversation offers thoughtful insight into a cornerstone of the Guelph-Wellington learning community.
Learn more about the Montessori School of Wellington:
https://montessori-school.ca
Find the school on the Canadian Council of Montessori Administrators website:
https://www.ccma.ca/schools/montessori-school-of-wellington
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode of Growing Guelph, host Jordan Sloggett sits down with Nathan Skoufis, a 23-time world martial arts champion and the owner of Guelph Family Martial Arts. Nathan shares his journey from starting martial arts at a young age to becoming an international champion. He discusses how martial arts instilled values of discipline and leadership, leading him to open a dojo that serves as a community hub in Guelph. Nathan also talks about his commitment to making self-defence accessible, especially for women and youth, and how martial arts can be a tool for building resilience and confidence.
Learn more about Nathan's work and programs at Guelph Family Martial Arts: https://www.guelphfamilymartialarts.com/
Follow Guelph Family Martial Arts on social media for updates and community events:
Instagram: @guelphfamilymartialartsFacebook: Guelph Family Martial ArtsDon't forget to follow Growing Guelph on social media to stay connected with future episodes and local stories.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This week on the Growing Guelph Podcast, we're joined by Conor Russell and Morgan Dandieâtwo local organizers helping to launch Resistance and Resilience Guelph, a community-rooted initiative responding to the challenges of economic uncertainty, social inequality, and political instability. Together, we explore their journeys into community work, the vision behind this new effort, and what it means to build a crisis-ready Guelph grounded in care, collaboration, and hope.
Thursday, June 19 - Elbows Up/Resistance Tour | Charlie Angus - https://www.eventbrite.com/e/elbows-upresistance-tour-charlie-angus-tickets-1363680457959?fbclid=IwY2xjawKjduVleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHib51KAX_1PFz5Vkdgud2iJ2mKs1h638SePNRgJU3XiqH84QC1c7zdAnw9Af_aem_mVHxDHrmgP8pOZPe4fGQmQ
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode of Growing Guelph, I sat down with Dominique OâRourke, the newly elected Member of Parliament for Guelph. Dominique shares the personal story behind her entry into politics, from her early days as a city councillor to her new role representing our community on the national stage. We discuss the values that drive her, the lessons sheâs bringing with her from municipal service, and her vision for Guelphâs future.
đ Follow Dominique OâRourke
Twitter/X: @ORourke4Guelph
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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In this episode, I sat down with Anna Schwankeâknown online as @thezerowastegryphon. Anna is a passionate advocate for accessible, joyful sustainability. Anna shares her journey into the zero-waste lifestyle, emphasizing that sustainability isn't about perfection but about making meaningful, manageable changes. Anna highlights the importance of community support, both online and in Guelph, and offers practical advice for those looking to start their own sustainability journey. Her insights remind us that every small step contributes to a larger impact.
Links & Resources:
Follow Anna on Instagram: @thezerowastegryphonRecent feature on Anna's zero-waste journey: GuelphToday ArticleTopics Covered:
The origins of Anna's interest in sustainabilityThe evolution of her public documentation on InstagramBalancing authenticity and aspiration in online sustainability contentThe role of community in sustaining environmental effortsIntegrating sustainability into everyday joyful activitiesNavigating environmental news and maintaining motivationGuelph's culture of environmental activism and local collaborationsPractical advice for starting a sustainable lifestyleVisions for Guelph's sustainable futureDon't forget to rate and review!
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Matt Ryder is the founder behind FTI Studios in Guelph, and he might be among the most unrelentingly positive and collaborative Guelphites that I've had the privilege of speaking to on the Growing Guelph podcast.
In our long discussion, we talk about what motivates Matt to lift up fellow creators as part of From the Inside Studios, and the community of musicians and artists he's gathered together with his optimistic attitude.
FTI Links:
https://www.instagram.com/fromtheinsidestudios/https://linktr.ee/fromtheinsidestudioshttps://ftistudios.com/en-cad/pages/aboutHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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Lynn Broughton from Taste Detours joins me on Growing Guelph this week. Lynn shares her wealth of knowledge all about Guelph's food scene - and the career she's established on giving personalized food tours in the city. Lynn started Taste Detours as a means of championing and elevating food people and places through exploration and connection.
Links:
https://tastedetours.ca/about-food-drink-tasting-tours/https://www.instagram.com/tastedetours/https://www.facebook.com/tastedetourshttps://www.youtube.com/tastedetoursHosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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This week on Growing Guelph is my conversation with John Galbraith and Dakota Pitz. John is the creator of Doll haus events, and Dakota is a Guelph Real Estate Agent, Sponsor and judge of the DollHous event series happening right now called Guelphâs Next Drag Superstar. In our conversation we talk about hosting LGBTQ events in Guelph, and how supportive of drag related events the Guelph community is.
Links:
https://www.instagram.com/dollhausevents/https://www.instagram.com/dakotapitzofficial/https://www.eventbrite.ca/o/doll-haus-events-34795413773https://www.guelphtoday.com/local-news/drag-culture-flourishing-in-guelph-5990767Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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