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In this episode of the Growing Guelph Podcast, I'm joined by Anne Day and Terrie Jarvis from the Guelph Rotary Clubs for a conversation about service, connection, and what it takes to strengthen a community from the inside out. Anne shares her perspective as a community champion, Rotarian, and host of Guelph’s Good News space, where she helps shine a light on local charities, events, and people doing meaningful work across the city. Terrie reflects on her work as a dedicated Rotarian and co-founder of Food4Kids Guelph, now Keep Kids Fed At Home, as well as her recent recognition as a 2026 YMCA Woman of Distinction. Together, we talk about Rotary’s role in Guelph and Wellington County, including Ribfest, Tour de Guelph, and the Community Connections project — an effort bringing local nonprofits together to share needs, reduce silos, and find new ways to collaborate. Relevant linksRotary International: https://www.rotary.org/en/about-rotaryRotary Club of Guelph Trillium: https://www.trilliumrotary.org/Rotary Club of Guelph: https://rotaryguelph.ca/Rotary Club of Guelph South: https://guelphsouthrotary.ca/Guelph Ribfest: https://www.ribfestguelph.com/Tour de Guelph: https://tourdeguelph.ca/Food4Kids Guelph / Keep Kids Fed At Home transition story: https://rotaryguelph.ca/stories/food4kids-guelph-is-changing-its-nameGuelphToday profile on Anne Day and her work sharing good news in the community: https://www.guelphtoday.com/local-news/meet-your-host-local-rotarian-aims-to-spread-good-news-in-spaces-10710954Rotary story on Community Connections and collaboration among local nonprofits: https://rotaryguelph.ca/stories/rotary-fostering-local-connections-and-collaborationGuelphToday story on local Rotary clubs bringing agencies together to discuss community needs: https://www.guelphtoday.com/local-news/local-rotary-clubs-join-forces-to-hear-from-agencies-in-need-12146073YMCA of Three Rivers 2026 Women of Distinction honourees, including Terrie Jarvis: https://www.guelphtoday.com/local-news/ymca-announces-guelphs-women-of-distinction-12028576GuelphToday spotlight on the Women of Distinction Awards: https://www.guelphtoday.com/spotlight/celebrate-guelphs-female-trailblazers-at-the-women-of-distinction-awards-12122976 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode I'm joined by CFUW Guelph members Susan Brown, Deb Thompson, Sandra McCormick and Sonia Spekkens. The guests share how they became involved with CFUW and what the organization has brought to their lives, including friendship, connection, belonging, discovery and opportunities for lifelong learning. The conversation also explores the organization’s history. CFUW was formerly known as the Canadian Federation of University Women, but today the organization is known simply by its acronym. The Guelph chapter brings women together to connect, learn and advocate. Susan, Deb, Sandra and Sonia discuss CFUW Guelph’s work on issues such as climate change, universal basic income and gender-based violence. They also talk about the importance of community partnerships, supporting education and working collectively to create a more inclusive and equitable community. Learn more about CFUW GuelphCFUW Guelph website: https://cfuwguelph.org/ CFUW Guelph on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CFUWGuelphON/ CFUW Guelph on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cfuwguelph/ About CFUW Guelph: https://cfuwguelph.org/about-us/ Membership and programs: https://cfuwguelph.org/program/ Advocacy initiatives: https://cfuwguelph.org/advocacy/ Scholarships and awards: https://cfuwguelph.org/scholarships/ Contact CFUW Guelph: https://cfuwguelph.org/contact-us/ Email: [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This one is a long one (and a fun one). My conversation with Lauren Martin, founder of Cool Aunt Creatives, clocks in at just over two hours and covers a huge range of ideas about community, creativity, and what it means to keep building a meaningful life after school. Lauren shares her Guelph origin story, how exploring downtown shaped her early connection to the city (including a shared love for the now-gone Dis-a-Rays), and what it was like navigating that post-university chapter of moving away, coming back, and trying to find real community as an adult. We also dig into her pandemic-era reset, learning new creative skills through trial and error, and how all of that eventually led to Cool Aunt Creatives, its workshops, and its bigger event universe. We talk about: - Coming to Guelph for school and choosing to stay - Making friends as an adult and building “third spaces” - Learning new hobbies, making mistakes, and pushing through discomfort - The meaning behind “Cool Aunt” and the ethos of the brand - Why structured play matters, especially for adults - Cool Aunt Creatives workshops, markets, and the kind of makers Lauren loves to work with - Fairy & Iron and building a fantasy world that continues across events - Creating dance spaces for adults that are joyful, structured, and not overly competitive Connect with Cool Aunt Creatives: Website: https://coolauntcreatives.com/ Events calendar: https://coolauntcreatives.com/events-calendar Workshops: https://coolauntcreatives.com/workshops-1 Cool Aunt Jr: https://coolauntcreatives.com/cool-aunt-jr-summer-camp Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coolauntcreatives/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coolauntcreatives/ More links (including other platforms): https://linktr.ee/coolauntcreatives Thanks for listening! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This episode is a sequel! Sort of. Last time I spoke to Steph Clarke from the Guelph Tool Library was in episode 3 in November of 2024 of this podcast. This time, I’m in-person with Steph Clarke, now the Community Engagement Manager at the Guelph Tool Library in the Old Quebec Street Shoppes. We talk about how the Tool Library has grown since our first Zoom chat, how local artists have helped transform the space into a welcoming community hub, and the impact the library is having through programs like the Free Hub and free bike repairs. We also dig into what’s next, including Repair Cafés, Seedy Saturday with Yorklands Green Hub, the Brush Battle fundraiser, and the Free To Read book sale supporting Books for Inmates. LINKS: Guelph Tool Library: https://guelphtoollibrary.org/ GTL Calendar (events): https://guelphtoollibrary.org/calendar/ Repair Café info: https://guelphtoollibrary.org/repair-cafe/ Seedy Saturday (Wellington County event page): https://www.wellington.ca/calendar/seedy-saturday-hosted-guelph-seed-library-yorklands-green-hub-and-guleph-tool-library Seedy Saturday workshop schedule (Yorklands): https://yorklandsgreenhub.ca/seedy-saturday-2/ Brush Battle tickets: https://www.zeffy.com/en-CA/ticketing/brush-battle Free To Read (book sale): https://guelphtoollibrary.org/free-to-read/ Thanks for listening, you can reach me with comments or suggest a guest at GrowingGuelph AT Gmail dot com! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Councillor Katherine Hauser represents Ward 6 on Guelph City Council, stepping into the role through the city’s appointment process. With deep local ties and a community-first perspective, Katherine brings a grounded approach to public service and a focus on helping residents understand how municipal decisions get made. In this episode of Growing Guelph, we talk about what it was like to join council mid-term, what she’s learned so far inside City Hall, and what she wishes more people knew about the realities of council work. We also dig into her goals for Ward 6, what she’s prioritizing in the months ahead, and the best ways for residents to connect, share input, and get involved. Connecting with councillor Katherine: Email - [email protected] by phone number at: 226-821, and then breaking this number up for the purposes of not assisting any spam bots which might want to skim the these show notes, the finally four digits are one one, two six. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Description:In the final episode of my three-part series with the Guelph Public Library, I speak with Meg Forestell-Page, Manager of Public Service, about the wide-reaching and innovative ways libraries are expanding access and building community across Guelph. Meg walks me through her role at the library and the many ways her team helps meet evolving needs in our digital and social world. We explore how the library supports digital equity, offers personalized tech help, and helps residents stay informed and safe in an age of rapid information and online scams. I also talk with Meg about the incredible range of resources beyond books—including the Library of Things—and how the library remains a flexible, inclusive third space for everyone in Guelph. Topics we discuss: The Guelph Wellington Digital Equity CoalitionDigital skills programming and scam awarenessReaching underserved and equity-deserving communitiesInnovative collections like the Library of ThingsHow the library is adapting to the future of AI and information overloadThe library’s role in building empathy, access, and communityRelevant Links:Guelph Public Library – About Us - https://www.guelphpl.ca/en/about-us/about-us.aspxGuelph Public Library – Programs & Events - https://www.guelphpl.ca/en/programs-events/programs-and-events.aspxLibrary of Things – Guelph Public Library - https://www.guelphpl.ca/en/collections/library-of-things.aspxGuelph Wellington Digital Equity Coalition - https://guelphchc.ca/gwdec/Guelph Public Library Strategic Plan - https://www.guelphpl.ca/en/about-us/strategic-plan.aspx Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Episode Description:In part two of our three-part series with the Guelph Public Library, we sit down with Dan Atkins, CEO, and Michelle Campbell, Deputy CEO, to explore the deeper public value that libraries bring to our community. Together, we discuss their paths into library leadership, the challenges and opportunities they’ve encountered, and how the Guelph Public Library continues to evolve. From the launch of their new strategic plan to the vision behind the soon-to-be-built Central Library, Dan and Michelle reflect on what it means to serve a diverse and growing city like Guelph. We cover: How the library decides where to invest time and energyInnovative ways the library is expanding what it offers to the publicWhy access and belonging remain central to their missionHow libraries balance being inclusive spaces while meeting public expectationsTheir hopes for the future of the library and its role in community buildingThis episode highlights the leadership behind one of Guelph’s most vital institutions and how libraries continue to shape the social and civic fabric of our city. Relevant Links:Guelph Public Library – About Us - https://www.guelphpl.ca/en/about-us/about-us.aspxGuelph Public Library Strategic Plan 2025–2028 – From Barriers to Bridges: - https://www.guelphpl.ca/en/about-us/strategic-plan.aspxGuelph Central Library Project (via City of Guelph) - https://guelph.ca/city-hall/planning-and-development/city-building-projects/baker-district/Recent news article on Dan Atkins, new CEO: - https://www.guelphtoday.com/local-news/familiar-face-is-the-new-new-ceo-of-guelph-public-library-9877362 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Growing Guelph, we sit down with Tom Armitage, Manager of The SEED, a community food project of the Guelph Community Health Centre. The SEED is redefining how we think about food insecurity—with a focus on dignity, access, and collaboration. From sliding scale markets to Fresh Food prescriptions, The SEED is at the heart of building a more equitable food system in Guelph. We trace Tom’s personal journey from studying graphic design to organic agriculture, and his deep roots in local food through programs like Backyard Bounty. Tom also shares how his graduate work under Dr. Evan Fraser helped shape the foundation of The SEED. Topics We Cover:Tom’s transition from design to food justiceThe early days of The SEED and its community-driven beginningsSliding scale markets, upcycled kitchens, and Fresh Food RxHow The SEED collaborates with other Guelph organizationsFood insecurity in Guelph—what’s at the root, and what’s needed to fix itEmbedding equity and dignity into food accessHow you can get involved—volunteer, donate, or advocateLearn More About The SEED:Website: theseedguelph.caInstagram: @theseedguelph https://www.instagram.com/seedguelphFacebook: facebook.com/TheSEEDGuelph📰 Related Articles & Resources:Tom Armitage Profile – U of GGuelph CHC Leadership TeamGuelphToday: Health Care Award for Tom ArmitageGuelph Mercury: Sliding Scale MarketsVolunteers Power Food Security Thanks for tuning in—and for sticking with the show after a short hiatus! More conversations with local changemakers are coming your way soon. Until then, let’s keep Growing Guelph! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this first episode of a special three-part series with the Guelph Public Library, we explore how libraries are transforming into vital third spaces—offering 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 library’s 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 – About Us - https://www.guelphpl.ca/en/about-us/about-us.aspx?_mid_=33528Naloxone Kits Now Available at Guelph Library – GuelphToday.com - https://www.guelphtoday.com/local-news/guelph-library-giving-out-naloxone-spray-kits-at-main-branch-10455430Welcoming Streets Initiative – 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.pdf Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 — designer, creative thinker, and the heart behind It’s Okay Studio. You’ll 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 she’s exploring: mental health, creativity, AI, work styles, and how we navigate living and working in Guelph. We dive into: Kendall’s journey into design and how she’s 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 — 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 everyday Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Anna Morozova & Bobby Raffin – Guelph Fashion Week – 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 farmers’ 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 – @iamannamorozova Anna's Event Agency: @wearenewsociety Bobby Raffin – @bobbyraffin Bobby's Shop Three Pieces: @three.pieces.ca Guelph Fashion Week Tickets: Eventbrite – Guelph Fashion Week Media Coverage: GuelphToday – 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.

Teresa Johnston (co–run director) and her sister Sue Wilkinson (social media & comms) join me on the podcast to share their family’s 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 don’t 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 – 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/@guelphrun Support Growing Guelph on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/GrowingGuelph Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 you’re new to the work of reconciliation or deeply involved in local activism, this conversation offers insight, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of Guelph’s 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.

Support Growing Guelph on Patreon! If you enjoy Growing Guelph and want to help support local storytelling, I’ve launched a Patreon! For as little as a buck a month, you’ll get early, ad-free episodes, the chance to submit questions for guests, and help shape future topics. It’s totally optional, but it helps keep this project going — and growing. 👉 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 Brian’s 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 matters—not 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 Guelph’s river and green spaces into one connected ecological corridor. We also discuss Indigenous history at the site, the legacy of the “Native Sons,” 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 Brian’s recent walking tour with Guelph Museums: Explore the Reformatory Grounds Want to help shape future episodes or support the show? 👉 Join the community on Patreon Thanks for listening to Growing Guelph — where we celebrate the people shaping a stronger, more connected city. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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. 🎧 Support Growing Guelph on Patreon! If you enjoy Growing Guelph and want to help support local storytelling, I’ve launched a Patreon! For as little as a buck a month, you’ll get early, ad-free episodes, the chance to submit questions for guests, and help shape future topics. It’s totally optional, but it helps keep this project going — and growing. Check it out at patreon.com/growingguelph Topics We Cover:How Guelph has shaped CJ’s music and careerThe role of emotion and storytelling in her songwritingMaking music in today’s digital worldThe behind-the-scenes of organizing a local music showcaseWhat’s in store for the upcoming Women in Music concertAdvice for local creatives looking to make an impactEvent Info:Women in Music Concert 📍 Red Brick Café, Guelph 📅 August 2, 1–4 p.m. 2025 🎟 $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 Music Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.