Neighbour Studio

Neighbour Media

Welcome to Neighbour Studio, your go-to space for diverse voices and stories. Here, we bring together a mix of podcasts that dive into everything from community stories and local spotlights to insightful conversations across industries. Whether you're here for inspiring interviews, deep dives, or light-hearted chats, our studio is where stories come to life. Tune in and stay connected to your community, one episode at a time.

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20 episodes
weekly
Avg 32 min
English

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Friday · 29 min
Conversations with Neighbours - Deb Clark
The power of giving back starts with community. In this episode of Conversations with Neighbours, host Myles Doak sits down with Deb Clark to talk about the importance of community support and her promotion of the Giving Shop at Oak Ridges Fashion Known for her passion for helping women feel confident through fashion, Deb also recognizes the value of coming together to support meaningful causes. This conversation explores the spirit of giving, the impact of community initiatives, and how local involvement can help make a difference. Join Myles and Deb as they discuss the Giving Shop at Oak Ridges Fashion and the importance of creating opportunities for people to support one another. Watch the full conversation and discover how community, generosity, and local connections can make a lasting impact.
October 20 · 23 min
Conversations with Neighbours - Chantal Almeida
What does it take to turn a childhood passion into a thriving community? In this episode of Conversations with Neighbours, host Myles Doak sits down with Chantal Almeida, owner of CDA Dance Inc., to discuss her journey from teaching dance in her parents’ basement to building an award-winning dance studio serving the Newmarket and Aurora communities. With more than 20 years of experience, Chantal has built CDA around a simple but powerful belief: dance is about more than learning steps. It’s about building confidence, encouraging creativity, and creating a welcoming environment where every dancer feels supported. Chantal shares the story behind her entrepreneurial journey, the importance of teaching the whole child, and how she has created a community where dancers of all ages and abilities can grow at their own pace. From opening her first studio at a young age to earning recognition for her leadership and business success, her story is one of passion, perseverance, and a commitment to helping others thrive. Join Myles and Chantal for a conversation about entrepreneurship, community, and the lasting impact of creating a space where people feel they belong.
October 15 · 16 min
Conversations with Neighbours - Milton Hart
In this episode of Conversations with Neighbours, host Myles Doak sits down with Milton Hart, a candidate for Aurora’s Ward 5 Council seat in the 2026 municipal election. With experience spanning education, military leadership, athletics, and community service, Milton brings a diverse background to his campaign. In this conversation, we get to know more about his journey, what inspired him to run for council, and his perspective on the future of Aurora. Join us as we explore the people, experiences, and ideas shaping our local community.
October 8 · 18 min
How does someone build a fitness community where people actually show up? | Joe Derochie explains
In this episode of Why We Recommend Them, Christopher Svab sits down with Joe Derochie, owner of Orangetheory Fitness Newmarket, to talk about fitness, community, and what it takes to create an environment that motivates people to become the best version of themselves. Joe shares his journey in the fitness industry, his approach to building a strong community, and why creating a welcoming and supportive environment is just as important as the workout itself. At Neighbour Media, we love getting to know the people behind the local businesses we recommend. Joe is a great example of a business owner who understands that success is about more than running a business; it’s about building relationships, supporting people, and making a positive impact in the community.
October 6 · 30 min
Conversations with Neighbours - Jamie Boyle - October Cover Feature
What does it take to bring positivity and great customer service into everything you do? In this episode of Conversations with Neighbours, host Myles Doak sits down with Jamie Boyle, Chief Positivity Officer, public sector customer service training specialist and facilitator, and Supervisor of Customer Service with the Town of Newmarket. Jamie shares her passion for creating positive experiences, building stronger connections, and helping organizations deliver exceptional customer service. The conversation explores the importance of positivity in the workplace, effective communication, leadership, and the impact that a simple interaction can have on someone's day. From public service to professional training, Jamie brings a people-first approach to everything she does. A conversation about positivity, leadership, customer service, and making a difference—one interaction at a time.
October 1 · 34 min
Ancestral Voices We Belong - Jules Koostachin - Episode 15
What does it mean to carry a story forward? In this episode of Ancestral Voices: We Belong, Kim Wheatley sits down with Dr. Jules Arita Koostachin, an award-winning Cree filmmaker, writer, scholar, and educator from Attawapiskat First Nation in the MoshKeKoWok Territory of Northern Ontario. Jules explores the power of Indigenous storytelling and the responsibility that comes with sharing stories rooted in culture, community, land, and spirit. Through her work in film, documentary, photography, creative writing, and installation, she creates Indigenous-led stories that honour ancestral knowledge while making space for future generations. Her doctoral research, MooNaHaTihKaaSiWew: Unearthing Spirit, examines Indigenous documentary practices, storytelling protocols, and positionality through an InNiNeWak (Swampy Cree) lens. For Jules, storytelling is more than preserving history; it is a living practice of cultural knowledge, connection, resurgence, and identity. Join Kim and Jules for a meaningful conversation about storytelling, responsibility, Indigenous representation, and the voices of Ancestors that continue to guide the stories we tell today. Website: https://juleskoostachin.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juleskoostachin/?hl=en Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/user12458695
September 21 · 33 min
Conversations with Neighbours - Peaceful Transition Inc.
🕊️ What if there were a different way to approach funeral services? In this episode of Conversations with Neighbours, Christopher Svab sits down with Alicia Vogan of Peaceful Transition Inc. to talk about a non-traditional approach to end-of-life services. Peaceful Transition Inc. helps families navigate the practical needs following the loss of a loved one, from transportation and documentation to cremation or burial arrangements and Celebrations of Life. Alicia shares her perspective on creating a more personal, supportive, and flexible experience for families during an incredibly difficult time. 🎙️ Watch the full conversation and learn more about the people behind Peaceful Transition Inc.
September 16 · 35 min
Conversations with Neighbours - A Million Mouthfuls
In this episode of Conversations with Neighbours, host Tricia Hulshof sits down with the team behind A Million Mouthfuls Catering as they prepare to launch their latest venture: The Chickadee Café! Located right in the heart of Newmarket, Ontario’s beautiful Mulock Park, The Chickadee Café is set to become a vibrant new community hub. Tricia and her guests chat about the inspiration behind opening the café, what locals can look forward to on the menu, and how A Million Mouthfuls Catering is bringing their passion for food and togetherness to this exciting new space. Tune in to get a sneak peek at Newmarket's newest neighbourhood spot and hear how local business, good food, and community connection are coming together at Mulock Park.
September 9 · 15 min
What makes a dealership more than just a place to buy a car? | Why We Recommend Them
What makes a dealership more than just a place to buy a car? In this episode of Why We Recommend Them, Christopher Svab sits down with Ruby Lui-Lina from Newmarket Toyota to talk about customer service, relationships, and what it takes to create a great experience for the people who walk through the doors. Ruby shares her perspective on the automotive industry, the importance of building trust with customers, and why putting people first is at the heart of a successful business. At Neighbour Media, we love getting to know the people behind the local businesses we recommend. Ruby is a great example of someone who understands that business is about more than transactions, it's about relationships and community.
September 2 · 1 hr 6 min
Ancestral Voices We Belong - Joseph Pitawanakwat
In this episode of Ancestral Voices: We Belong, host Kim Wheatley sits down with Joseph Pitawanakwat, an educator and knowledge keeper dedicated to learning, restoring, and sharing Anishinaabe knowledge. Joseph speaks about the importance of reconnecting with the natural world and understanding the teachings that have guided Anishinaabe people throughout the Great Lakes region. Through education, storytelling, and knowledge restoration, he is helping make these teachings accessible to new generations. The conversation explores the relationship between people, land, plants, animals, and the natural world, while highlighting the importance of preserving Indigenous knowledge and ensuring it continues to be shared. Joseph also discusses the work of his team and their commitment to developing education strategies that help communities reconnect with Anishinaabe teachings and the knowledge required to live a good life. A thoughtful conversation about land, culture, education, and the responsibility of carrying knowledge forward.
August 27 · 24 min
Conversations with Neighbours - Sue LaRosa
In this episode of Conversations with Neighbours, host Myles Doak sits down with Sue LaRosa, a dedicated community leader and board member of Rose of Sharon. Sue brings decades of experience in education and leadership, having served in a number of roles with the York Catholic District School Board, including teacher, principal, superintendent, and Director of Education. Throughout her career, Sue has been recognized for her commitment to education and community service, receiving honours including a York Region Woman of Distinction Award, an Administrator of the Year Award, and the Council of Exceptional Children of York Region’s President’s Award. In this conversation, Sue reflects on her career in education, the importance of strong leadership, and her continued commitment to supporting families and the community through her work with Rose of Sharon. A conversation about leadership, education, community, and making a lasting difference in the lives of others.
August 26 · 38 min
Conversations with Neighbours - House of Love
In this episode of Conversations with Neighbours, host Christopher Svab sits down with Maria and Andrei, the creators behind House of Love, a project built around a simple but powerful idea: spreading kindness and connection wherever you go. Their journey took them across Canada in a car covered in handwritten love notes, turning an ordinary road trip into a moving celebration of positivity, community, and human connection. Maria and Andrei share the story behind House of Love, what inspired them to take their message on the road, and some of the experiences they encountered along the way. Together, they explore the impact that small acts of kindness can have, and how one idea can inspire people from coast to coast. A heartfelt conversation about love, community, and the power of bringing people together.
August 3 · 53 min
Ancestral Voices We Belong - Design De Plume Inc - Episode 13
How do we use emerging technology to tell ancient stories and build meaningful bridges? In this episode, we sit down with Jennifer Taback, Co-CEO of Design de Plume, an Indigenous and women-owned creative agency founded in 2009. A member of Shawanaga First Nation, Jennifer sees her role as a visual translator. As a strategist, advisor, and listener, she guides complex projects across healthcare, education, cultural institutions, and Indigenous governance into uncharted territory, all while keeping ancestral wisdom and lived experiences at the heart of the design. Join us for a conversation on culture, technology, and creating impactful dialogue for future generations. Website: https://deplume.ca/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/design_de_plume/?hl=en
July 20 · 24 min
What Makes the Good Neighbours so highly recommended | Myles Doak Explains
Tired of endless scrolling, fake online reviews, and guessing who to trust in your own community? Welcome to Why We Recommend Them, the show where we filter out the noise and shine a spotlight on the local businesses actually doing it right. In this episode, host Christopher Svab sits down with Myles Doak, entrepreneur and founder of Good Neighbours, to break down a brand-new platform that is completely reshaping how they support local services. Myles shares the vision behind Good Neighbours: a highly curated directory that features exactly one trusted, community-approved business per category. No overwhelming lists, no algorithm games, just honest, vetted recommendations.
July 15 · 31 min
Conversations with Neighbours - Celebrating our scholarship award winners!
In this special series of Conversations with Neighbours, hosts Myles Doak and Tricia Hulshof sit down with the inspiring recipients of the Neighbour Media Scholarship Award: Abel Alvarez and Samreen Khurram from Sacred Heart Catholic High School, Ryan Wang and Cary Li from Dr. G.W. Williams Secondary School, and Rachel Choi from Cardinal Carter Catholic High School. Throughout these conversations, these exceptional local students share their unique academic journeys, the defining experiences that have shaped their goals, and what receiving this scholarship means to them as they embark on the next chapter of their education. Each episode explores the vital roles that perseverance, community support, and seizing opportunities play in helping young people pursue their passions and future ambitions. Join us as we celebrate the incredible achievements of these local students and highlight the profound, lasting impact that investing in the next generation has on both individuals and our wider community.
July 6 · 54 min
Ancestral Voices We Belong - Episode 12 - Rebeka Tabobondung
In this episode of Ancestral Voices: We Belong, host Kim Wheatley sits down with media creator, filmmaker, writer, and poet Rebeka Tabobondung, founder and Editor-in-Chief of MUSKRAT Magazine. As one of Canada's leading Indigenous storytellers and cultural voices, Rebeka has dedicated her career to amplifying Indigenous perspectives through journalism, film, poetry, and research. She shares her journey as a storyteller, the inspiration behind creating MUSKRAT Magazine, and the importance of preserving and celebrating Indigenous arts, culture, and knowledge. Together, Kim and Rebeka explore the power of storytelling as a tool for healing, education, and cultural revitalization. Their conversation reflects on the responsibility of sharing stories with authenticity, the evolving landscape of Indigenous media, and the lasting impact that Indigenous voices continue to have on communities across Canada.
June 29 · 15 min
How does investing help people in their financial future with confidence | Juliane Goyette explains
In this episode of Why We Recommend Them, Myles Doak sits down with Juliane Goyette, Financial Advisor with Riverwalk Wealth to discuss the importance of financial planning, building trust with clients, and helping people make informed decisions about their future. Juliane shares her approach to working with individuals and families, the value of personalized financial guidance, and why strong relationships are at the heart of successful financial planning. The conversation explores the role of trust, education, and long-term thinking when helping clients achieve their financial goals.
June 24 · 35 min
Conversations with Neighbours - Marie
In this episode of Conversations with Neighbours, host Myles Doak sits down with Marie, founder and owner of Kookla Soap Co., a small business based in Newmarket dedicated to creating handcrafted artisan soaps and body care products. Marie shares the story behind Kookla Soap Co., her passion for natural skincare, and the craftsmanship that goes into every product. Using the traditional cold process soap-making method, her soaps are carefully created in small batches and formulated without palm oil, parabens, soy, or other harsh chemicals. The conversation explores entrepreneurship, sustainable product creation, and the growing demand for thoughtfully made, natural body care products. Marie also discusses the importance of quality ingredients, customer trust, and building a business rooted in care and intention.
June 22 · 10 min
What does it take to create an experience that keeps people coming back? | Ariana Laxdal explains
In this episode of Why We Recommend Them, Myles Doak sits down with Ariana Laxdal, owner and manager of The George, to talk about hospitality, leadership, and what it means to build a business that becomes a community favourite. Ariana shares her journey in the restaurant industry, the values that guide her approach to customer service, and the importance of creating memorable experiences for every guest who walks through the door. From managing a successful restaurant to fostering a strong team culture, she discusses the challenges and rewards of operating one of Newmarket's well-known dining destinations.
June 17 · 1 hr 9 min
Ancestral Voices We Belong - Episode 11 - Waneek Horn-Miller
In this powerful episode of Ancestral Voices: We Belong, host Kim Wheatley sits down with Waneek Horn-Miller, a Mohawk woman from Kahnawake Mohawk Territory, Olympian, advocate, and one of Canada's most influential Indigenous voices. Waneek reflects on her remarkable journey from surviving a near-fatal injury during the Oka Crisis to becoming a member and former co-captain of Canada's Olympic women's water polo team. Through resilience, determination, and a deep connection to her culture, she has transformed personal adversity into a lifelong commitment to leadership, reconciliation, and community building. The conversation explores the importance of sport, wellness, and education in empowering Indigenous youth, as well as Waneek's ongoing work advocating for Indigenous communities, women in leadership, and meaningful reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples. Drawing on her experiences as an athlete, speaker, and cultural advocate, Waneek shares powerful insights on overcoming barriers, building self-esteem, and creating opportunities for future generations. At the heart of the discussion is a message of understanding, connection, and the importance of listening to one another as we work toward a stronger future together. Website: https://waneekhornmiller.com/home Instagram: @Waneek

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