City of Nanaimo Presents: The Sweet Layered Podcast

City of Nanaimo

The official City of Nanaimo podcast unravels the intricate layers of a growing city on Vancouver Island and the opportunities and challenges to running a municipality. Drawing parallels to the iconic multi-layered Nanaimo bar, the podcast boasts a delightful blend of flavours, with conversations that dive deep into Nanaimo’s rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant community.

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20 episodes
Updated June 5

Episodes20

Newest first

June 5 · 46 min
e34 - Culture Grants!
In this episode of The Sweet Layered Podcast, we explore how the City of Nanaimo’s culture grants support local organizations, events and creative projects that enrich community life. We welcome the City’s Culture Coordinator and three grant recipients to talk about how funding helps turn ideas into meaningful experiences. From festivals and heritage initiatives to arts programming, the episode highlights the impact of these grants and their role in fostering a vibrant, inclusive and thriving community.
May 22 · 36 min
e33 - Accessibility at City Recreation Facilities
In this episode we explore how the City of Nanaimo is addressing and improving accessibility across its recreation facilities. From physical upgrades and barrier-free design to staff training and service delivery, the conversation highlights the steps being taken to ensure residents of all abilities can access programs, spaces and services with confidence. Our guests are Mike Bryson, Deputy Director of Civic Facilities and Laara Clarkson, Manager of Recreation Services. Listeners will gain insight into how accessibility is considered in both day-to-day operations and long-term planning, as well as the role staff play in creating positive, inclusive experiences.
April 20 · 46 min
e32 - Tourism Nanaimo
Tourism touches nearly every part of Nanaimo’s community, from jobs and small business to arts, culture and events. In this episode, we sit down with Carly Pereboom, CEO of Tourism Nanaimo, to talk about what’s coming up this year. The conversation explores new initiatives, seasonal highlights and evolving travel trends, as well as how Tourism Nanaimo balances visitor growth with sustainability and community livability. Listeners will also learn how tourism contributes to Nanaimo’s local economy and why showcasing local stories and experiences matters now more than ever. Whether you’re a resident, business owner or planning a visit, this episode offers insight into how Nanaimo is positioning itself as a welcoming, vibrant destination.
April 14 · 21 min
ep31 - Elections 101
Municipal elections shape the decisions that affect our everyday lives — from roads, parks and public safety to housing and community services. British Columbia’s next general local election takes place on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, and in this episode, we break down what voters and potential candidates need to know. Joining us is Sheila Gurrie, Director of Legislative Services and Communications, who brings extensive experience overseeing local elections. We cover who can vote, how and where to cast a ballot, opportunities to work during an election and what’s involved if you’re thinking about running for local office. Whether you’re voting for the first time or considering a run for council, this episode is your starting point.
February 4 · 50 min
ep30 - Dr. Derek Poteryko
In this episode of The Sweet Layered Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Derek Poteryko, a family physician, author and well-known wellness advocate in Nanaimo. We talk about his community-based approach to health, including Walk With a Doc and the Orange Bench initiative, and explore what wellness really means, why simple habits matter and how social connections support physical and mental health. Dr. Poteryko also shares practical tips that listeners can start using today, offering clear and accessible advice from one of Nanaimo’s most engaged health advocates.
January 27 · 32 min
e29 - Community Safety Officers
In this episode, we sit down with Litzenberger, one of Nanaimo’s Community Safety Officers, to take listeners behind the scenes of one of the City’s most community‑focused frontline roles. CSOs provide uniformed patrols, response to public safety concerns and support residents facing homelessness, mental health challenges and addiction. Ron shares personal insights into the work from coordinating with police, fire, health and outreach teams, to building relationships with downtown businesses, to helping people find the resources they need. We explore the balance between compassion and compliance, what makes the job both rewarding and demanding and how this team plays a key role in keeping Nanaimo safe, connected and supported.
Nov 18, 2025 · 25 min
e28 - RE-RELEASE: Adverse Weather
Original airdate: 11/19/2024 *edited to remove out of date information. Adverse weather can be challenging, but with the right services and clear communication it makes all the difference. Clear roads, sidewalks and areas around facilities to safety alerts and critical updates, timely info keeps our community safe, informed and prepared. We chat with Charlotte Davis, Deputy Director of Parks and Natural Areas and David Thompson, Manager of Roads and Traffic Services about what the City does when we get hit with severe weather.
Nov 10, 2025 · 40 min
e27 - Vancouver Island Military Museum
On this episode of the Sweet Layered Podcast, we’re joined by Carina Nilsson, General Manager and Brian McFadden, President of the Vancouver Island Military Museum. Located near Nanaimo’s harbour front, the museum features exhibits tracing Canada’s military history from the War of 1812 to present-day missions. We explore how the museum came to be, how stories and artifacts are selected and the importance of highlighting both battlefield and home front experiences. Carina and Brian share how the museum connects with the community, honours service and sacrifice and inspires reflection across generations. Whether it’s Remembrance Day or any time of year, this episode offers insight into one of Nanaimo’s most meaningful cultural institutions, a place where history is preserved and remembrance lives on.
Nov 5, 2025 · 32 min
e26 - Luminous Paths: Nanaimo 150 and Beyond
On this episode we welcome Jaime-Brett Sine, the City’s Culture Coordinator, to talk about Luminous Paths: Nanaimo’s 150 and Beyond event held in early 2025 – which recently took home a Creative City Network of Canada Impact Award. Luminous Paths was a month-long winter art festival commemorating the City’s 150th anniversary of Nanaimo City Council’s first meeting. The event, a first of its kind for the city, welcomed nearly 18,000 people taking part in seven art installations stationed around Maffeo Sutton Park.
Oct 6, 2025 · 37 min
e25 - RCMP Superintendent Eric Rochette!
We thought we'd give it a few months before we have Nanaimo's latest Officer in Charge of the RCMP, Superintendent Eric Rochette, to the podcast! We talk upbringing in eastern Canada, leadership practice, vision for the detachment and public safety.
Sep 24, 2025 · 35 min
e24 - Bylaw!
Today we’re joined by two of Nanaimo’s dedicated Bylaw Officers, Wally Taylor and Mike Buckler. We’ll be diving into what it’s like to work in bylaw enforcement, bylaws the community may not know about, the challenges, misconceptions and celebrations they experience and how they help keep our community safe and respectful. Thanks for joining us!
Jun 26, 2025 · 29 min
e23 - 55+ BC Games!
Nanaimo is getting ready to welcome 2,700 athletes for the 2025 55+ BC Games, a province-wide celebration of active living and community spirit. In this episode we chat with Games President Diana Johnstone and Vice President Mary Smith about what it takes to organize an event of this size and scale. They talk about the 21 sports being featured, the call for volunteers and how local residents and businesses can get involved. Whether you’re a potential athlete, volunteer or supporter, this episode is your insider look at what’s coming to the Harbour City September 9 to 13, 2025.
Jun 4, 2025 · 32 min
e22 - Aquatics!
Aquatics is one of the most popular programs offered by the City. On this episode we dive into a topic that makes a big splash in our community. Recreation Coordinators Ashley Rowe and Amanda Watkins share information on the many programs offered from swim lessons, Aquafit, water safety and so much more. How many people use the facility each day and how many litres of water is needed to fill a pool? Listen to find out!
May 15, 2025 · 22 min
e21 - Public Works Day!
Public works, the essential service that keeps our community running smoothly. On this episode we're exploring why public works matter, how they affect our daily lives and what residents might not realize about the planning and people behind the scenes. Most importantly, we discuss Public Works Day! What is it? Listen to find out. Joining us are Sweet Layered Podcast alum Bill Sims, General Manager for Engineering & Public Works and David Thompson, Manager of Roads & Traffic Services.
May 14, 2025 · 35 min
e20 - Watershed!
April is Water to Earth Month and today we discuss and celebrate the critical connections between our environment and everyday lives. In honour of Earth Day, we’re spotlighting a unique partnership that brings together multiple levels of government and private industry to care for something we all rely on, our watershed. From the forests that filter our water, to the rivers that carry salmon home, to the taps in our kitchens, it’s all connected. Joining us is Mike Squire, the City's Manager of Water Resources, Pam Jorgenson the Manager of Community Initiatives & Certifications for Mosaic and James Meldrum, Senior Rebuilding Biologist for Fisheries and Oceans Canada.
Apr 2, 2025 · 26 min
e19 - Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Ever wonder how the city keeps everything running smoothly? Some of it comes down to data—over 400 layers of it. Geographic Information Systems (GIS) support everything from managing water and wastewater to dispatching emergency services and tracking city assets. GIS helps City staff make informed decisions, improve public safety and even meet legislative requirements. On this episode, we’re joined by Mark Willoughby, the City’s Supervisor of GIS, to break down how this powerful tool works and why it matters.
Mar 6, 2025 · 40 min
e18 - Building Inspections!
Ever wonder how buildings in Nanaimo stay safe and up to code? Today, we're taking a look at the Building Inspections and Permits process with Darcy Fox the Manager of Building Inspections. We chat about the folks who review permits, enforce regulations and help turn ideas into reality. Stick around as we break down how their work keeps our community growing strong!
Jan 13, 2025 · 48 min
e17 - Solid Waste & Recycling!
On this episode of The Sweet Layered Podcast, we’re talking trash—literally! In the booth we welcome City Councillor and Regional District of Nanaimo (RDN) Director Ben Geselbracht and City Zero Waste Coordinator Travis Barrington. As one of four municipalities in the RDN, the City of Nanaimo plays an important role in supporting the RDN’s Solid Waste Management Plan. While the RDN sets the big-picture goals and targets for solid waste disposal, the City handles services like residential curbside collection, public waste receptacles and Zero Waste initiatives. We also discuss the RDN's new waste source separation bylaw and who it affects plus we find out where your garbage, recycling and compost goes after it is picked up. Tune in as we explore what the new bylaw means for residents, businesses and the environment, and how the City of Nanaimo is supporting these efforts to reduce waste and move closer to Zero Waste goals.
Dec 20, 2024 · 28 min
e16 - 2024 podcast year-in-review
This special year-in-review episode of The Sweet Layered Podcast peeled back the many layers of what makes Nanaimo such a vibrant community. This year, we released 15 episodes, exploring everything from property taxes and water conservation to cultural celebrations and major city projects. With an average of over 100 downloads per episode, we’re proud to be in the top 25th percentile of podcasts worldwide, thanks to you—our amazing listeners! On this episode, we’re revisiting the highlights, sharing memorable moments and celebrating the stories that made 2024 such an exciting year for our podcast.
Dec 4, 2024 · 32 min
e15 - Budget 2025!
In this episode, we’re diving into Nanaimo’s 2025-2029 Draft Financial Plan—a blueprint for managing $4.8 billion in City assets and supporting a growing population of over 100,000. With investments in public safety, housing and infrastructure, the plan reflects the City’s commitment to sustainability, livability and long-term resilience. We chat with Chief Administrative Officer Dale Lindsay and General Manager of Corporate Services Laura Mercer. *Episode recorded on December 3, 2024