https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/echo-essentials-podcast--6081225The Echo Essentials Podcast ties together all the elements of the North Bay Echo Community Podcast Network, hosted by Essentials newsletter editor Dave Dale and Echo's principal partner Scott Clark.

Guests on the weekly show will reflect the challenges and issues facing North Bay while Scott and Dave discuss the topics and podcasts featured in the newsletter ... as well as upcoming projects.

References to the To North Bay With Love, Backroads Bill, Frontline and Cheap Seats episodes will be common.

The Echo Essentials Podcast drops online each Thursday at 2 p.m.

Billed as North Bay's oddest couple, Scott and Dave are patently different in both manner and outlook despite being born within a mile of each other and a month apart in 1965. Scott was born for theatre and built up a 20-year career in radio in split between Toronto and North Bay before entering the marketing game with Clark Communications celebrating the 20-year milestone in 2024.

Dave took the print media route, beginning in 1986 as a Canadore College student and taking a journalism journey through B.C., North Bay, Kapuskasing and Orillia before a seven-year stint with the Anishinabek News and 18 years as a Nugget reporter, photographer and columnist. He is also the publisher of the Back in the Bay Magazine, a quarterly print product with 12 editions since launching in 2021.

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

To inquire about being a guest or commenting on content, please email editor@northbayecho.ca



Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Specialist: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>enSociety & CultureThe Echo Podcast Networkhttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/b4a80090718cedf4e040392a298a7bc5.jpghttps://www.spreaker.com/podcast/echo-essentials-podcast--6081225Thu, 12 Mar 2026 20:12:47 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThe Echo Podcast Networkhello@northbayecho.caThe Echo Essentials Podcast ties together all the elements of the North Bay Echo Community Podcast Network, hosted by Essentials newsletter editor Dave Dale and Echo's principal partner Scott Clark. Guests on the weekly show will reflect the...The Echo Essentials Podcast ties together all the elements of the North Bay Echo Community Podcast Network, hosted by Essentials newsletter editor Dave Dale and Echo's principal partner Scott Clark.

Guests on the weekly show will reflect the challenges and issues facing North Bay while Scott and Dave discuss the topics and podcasts featured in the newsletter ... as well as upcoming projects.

References to the To North Bay With Love, Backroads Bill, Frontline and Cheap Seats episodes will be common.

The Echo Essentials Podcast drops online each Thursday at 2 p.m.

Billed as North Bay's oddest couple, Scott and Dave are patently different in both manner and outlook despite being born within a mile of each other and a month apart in 1965. Scott was born for theatre and built up a 20-year career in radio in split between Toronto and North Bay before entering the marketing game with Clark Communications celebrating the 20-year milestone in 2024.

Dave took the print media route, beginning in 1986 as a Canadore College student and taking a journalism journey through B.C., North Bay, Kapuskasing and Orillia before a seven-year stint with the Anishinabek News and 18 years as a Nugget reporter, photographer and columnist. He is also the publisher of the Back in the Bay Magazine, a quarterly print product with 12 editions since launching in 2021.

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

To inquire about being a guest or commenting on content, please email editor@northbayecho.ca



Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Specialist: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>trueepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/gofer-run-the-local-app-changing-how-we-grocery-shop--70576063
Eric Dion, co-founder of Gofer.Run, joins the show to talk about the launch of the locally developed app designed to help consumers save money by comparing grocery prices and planning smarter shopping trips. Instead of guessing where the best deals are, the app scans flyers and store listings to help users map out the most cost-effective grocery run.

Eric shares the story behind the idea, how the app was built by a North Bay team, and what it was like bringing the project from concept to launch. We also talk about how the technology works, the role of AI in the platform, privacy considerations, and how users can customize their search radius to find the best prices available.

0:00 – Introducing the Gofer.Run App
6:42 – The Idea Behind the Platform
15:18 – How the App Finds the Best Grocery Deals
27:03 – AI, Privacy & Building the Technology
39:47 – What’s Next for Gofer.Run]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70576063Thu, 12 Mar 2026 20:10:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode of Echo Essentials, we take a closer look at a new piece of local tech that could change the way people shop for groceries. Eric Dion, co-founder of Gofer.Run, joins the show to talk about the launch of the locally developed app...
Eric Dion, co-founder of Gofer.Run, joins the show to talk about the launch of the locally developed app designed to help consumers save money by comparing grocery prices and planning smarter shopping trips. Instead of guessing where the best deals are, the app scans flyers and store listings to help users map out the most cost-effective grocery run.

Eric shares the story behind the idea, how the app was built by a North Bay team, and what it was like bringing the project from concept to launch. We also talk about how the technology works, the role of AI in the platform, privacy considerations, and how users can customize their search radius to find the best prices available.

0:00 – Introducing the Gofer.Run App
6:42 – The Idea Behind the Platform
15:18 – How the App Finds the Best Grocery Deals
27:03 – AI, Privacy & Building the Technology
39:47 – What’s Next for Gofer.Run]]>3101falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/snowmobile-season-in-northern-ontario-safety-tourism-trail-challenges--70148753
We’re joined by Shawn Flindall from the North Bay Snowmobile Club to talk about Snowmobile Safety Week, the realities of riding in ever-changing winter conditions, and the responsibility that comes with operating high-performance machines on community trail systems.

We also break down the bigger picture. Snowmobiling is not just a hobby. It represents billions of dollars in economic activity across Ontario and plays a major role in supporting small businesses, hotels, restaurants, and rural communities throughout the winter months.

But with that opportunity comes challenge. From trespassing concerns on private land to the cost and volunteer effort required to maintain thousands of kilometres of trails, the future of organized snowmobiling depends on cooperation, respect, and safety.

0:00 Intro
12:15 Snowmobile Safety Week Explained
27:06 The $5 Billion Snowmobile Industry
33:51Trespassing & Private Land Concerns
48:13 How Long Will the Season Last?]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70148753Thu, 19 Feb 2026 19:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkOn this episode of Echo Essentials, we take a closer look at snowmobile season in North Bay and Northern Ontario and what it really means for our region. We’re joined by Shawn Flindall from the North Bay Snowmobile Club to talk about Snowmobile...
We’re joined by Shawn Flindall from the North Bay Snowmobile Club to talk about Snowmobile Safety Week, the realities of riding in ever-changing winter conditions, and the responsibility that comes with operating high-performance machines on community trail systems.

We also break down the bigger picture. Snowmobiling is not just a hobby. It represents billions of dollars in economic activity across Ontario and plays a major role in supporting small businesses, hotels, restaurants, and rural communities throughout the winter months.

But with that opportunity comes challenge. From trespassing concerns on private land to the cost and volunteer effort required to maintain thousands of kilometres of trails, the future of organized snowmobiling depends on cooperation, respect, and safety.

0:00 Intro
12:15 Snowmobile Safety Week Explained
27:06 The $5 Billion Snowmobile Industry
33:51Trespassing & Private Land Concerns
48:13 How Long Will the Season Last?]]>3234false109fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/north-bay-s-housing-development-boom-what-drove-the-2025-surge--70038570
With 242 new dwelling units approved in 2025, more than double from 2024, we sit down with Councillor Justine Mallah and Beverley Hillier from Planning and Building Services to unpack what drove the surge.

We also take a look at the continuing development of the waterfront area and what the future holds for 2026 and beyond.



5:27 – 242 New Units: Breaking Down North Bay’s 2025 Housing Surge
12:31 – “Building Up, Not Out”
17:25 – Repurposing Schools Into Affordable Housing
50:15 – How City Funding & Grant Applications Actually Work]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70038570Fri, 13 Feb 2026 16:06:31 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode of Echo Essentials, we break down what’s behind North Bay’s banner year for housing development. With 242 new dwelling units approved in 2025, more than double from 2024, we sit down with Councillor Justine Mallah and Beverley Hillier...
With 242 new dwelling units approved in 2025, more than double from 2024, we sit down with Councillor Justine Mallah and Beverley Hillier from Planning and Building Services to unpack what drove the surge.

We also take a look at the continuing development of the waterfront area and what the future holds for 2026 and beyond.



5:27 – 242 New Units: Breaking Down North Bay’s 2025 Housing Surge
12:31 – “Building Up, Not Out”
17:25 – Repurposing Schools Into Affordable Housing
50:15 – How City Funding & Grant Applications Actually Work]]>3336false108fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/dr-david-tabachnick-a-conversation-on-the-state-of-canadian-ontario-and-international-politics--69813462
In this episode of Echo Essentials, friend of the show and professor of political science Dr. David Tabachnick joins the podcast for a wide ranging conversation on the current state of politics at every level.

We tackle the recent happenings including the threats to Greenland and the repercussions, Canada's tariffs on China, and the current state of provincial politics in Ontario]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69813462Thu, 05 Feb 2026 18:56:37 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkPolitics is moving fast, and the forces shaping Canada today are tied closely to what is happening in Ontario and around the world. In this episode of Echo Essentials, friend of the show and professor of political science Dr. David Tabachnick joins...
In this episode of Echo Essentials, friend of the show and professor of political science Dr. David Tabachnick joins the podcast for a wide ranging conversation on the current state of politics at every level.

We tackle the recent happenings including the threats to Greenland and the repercussions, Canada's tariffs on China, and the current state of provincial politics in Ontario]]>3833false108fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/185-years-of-democracy-gone-how-to-save-trustees-in-public-education-in-ontario--69668777
In this episode of Echo Essentials, Jay Aspin and Bill Steer join the podcast to talk about the petition to keep trustees in Ontario's public school system. Both men bring deep experience in public life and education governance, and they speak candidly about what has unfolded and why it matters.

The conversation explores the role of elected trustees, the difference between governance and operations, and the concern that long standing democratic structures are being weakened.

You can sign the petition here: https://www.change.org/p/keep-school-board-trustees-as-elected-officials-in-ontario?source_location=petition_update_page


6:34 The petition to protect elected trustees in Ontario
12:22 What happens to public voice if trustees are removed
27:30 Concerns about power, governance, and democratic erosion
53:10 Final call to action and why this moment matters]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69668777Thu, 29 Jan 2026 19:00:07 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkWhat happens when elected school trustees lose their power, and what does that mean for democracy in Ontario? In this episode of Echo Essentials, Jay Aspin and Bill Steer join the podcast to talk about the petition to keep trustees in Ontario's...
In this episode of Echo Essentials, Jay Aspin and Bill Steer join the podcast to talk about the petition to keep trustees in Ontario's public school system. Both men bring deep experience in public life and education governance, and they speak candidly about what has unfolded and why it matters.

The conversation explores the role of elected trustees, the difference between governance and operations, and the concern that long standing democratic structures are being weakened.

You can sign the petition here: https://www.change.org/p/keep-school-board-trustees-as-elected-officials-in-ontario?source_location=petition_update_page


6:34 The petition to protect elected trustees in Ontario
12:22 What happens to public voice if trustees are removed
27:30 Concerns about power, governance, and democratic erosion
53:10 Final call to action and why this moment matters]]>3250calandra,conservative,education,government,nearnorth,school,schoolboardfalse106fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/inside-north-bay-s-homelessness-and-housing-issues-with-councillor-mark-king--69572644
The conversation covers new data showing sharp increases in homelessness across Northern Ontario, the limits of what municipalities can realistically do, and why provincial and federal support is critical.

Mark also shares insights from recent meetings with provincial ministers, the challenges of funding social housing, and what it means when cities are left managing a crisis they cannot solve alone

0:00 Introduction and why homelessness is the focus 
10:11 The new report and the 117 percent increase in Northern Ontario
19:26 Why cities cannot fix homelessness alone
32:15 What real housing solutions actually require
56:01 Final reflections and what comes next for North Bay]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69572644Sat, 24 Jan 2026 17:03:34 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode of Echo Essentials, North Bay City Councillor Mark King joins the show to talk candidly about the state of housing and homelessness in the city. As chair of the District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board and vice chair...
The conversation covers new data showing sharp increases in homelessness across Northern Ontario, the limits of what municipalities can realistically do, and why provincial and federal support is critical.

Mark also shares insights from recent meetings with provincial ministers, the challenges of funding social housing, and what it means when cities are left managing a crisis they cannot solve alone

0:00 Introduction and why homelessness is the focus 
10:11 The new report and the 117 percent increase in Northern Ontario
19:26 Why cities cannot fix homelessness alone
32:15 What real housing solutions actually require
56:01 Final reflections and what comes next for North Bay]]>3450homeless,housingcrisis,localnews,northbay,politicsfalse105fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/madd-nipissing-and-the-ongoing-fight-against-impaired-driving--69455918
In this episode of Echo Essentials, we sit down with Shona Camirand and Bobbie-Lyn Shank, members of MADD Nipissing, about the ongoing fight against impaired driving.

They share why education and awareness still matter, how attitudes around drinking and driving have changed, and where dangerous misconceptions still exist.

0:00 – Intro
8:36 – Red Ribbon campaigns and Ride programs in North Bay
17:06 – How impaired driving has changed beyond alcohol
24:24 – New testing, breathalyzers, and evolving laws
50:31 – How to get involved with MADD Nipissing and help locally
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69455918Thu, 15 Jan 2026 19:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkImpaired driving is not something from the past. It is still happening in our communities, and the consequences are still devastating. In this episode of Echo Essentials, we sit down with Shona Camirand and Bobbie-Lyn Shank, members of MADD...
In this episode of Echo Essentials, we sit down with Shona Camirand and Bobbie-Lyn Shank, members of MADD Nipissing, about the ongoing fight against impaired driving.

They share why education and awareness still matter, how attitudes around drinking and driving have changed, and where dangerous misconceptions still exist.

0:00 – Intro
8:36 – Red Ribbon campaigns and Ride programs in North Bay
17:06 – How impaired driving has changed beyond alcohol
24:24 – New testing, breathalyzers, and evolving laws
50:31 – How to get involved with MADD Nipissing and help locally
]]>3146distracteddriving,drunkdriving,impaireddriving,madd,nipissing,northbayfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/let-s-remember-adam-the-push-to-make-drivers-stop-for-school-buses--69357783
Since that moment, Pierre and his family have made it their mission to make sure no one else has to go through what they did. The campaign has become a powerful reminder about the importance of stopping for school buses and protecting children as they get on and off safely.

4:10 Why Drivers Still Don’t Stop
08:56 How Policy Change Happened
20:00 The Push for Stop Arm Cameras
52:56 What’s Next for Let’s Remember Adam]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69357783Thu, 08 Jan 2026 18:50:15 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode, we sit down with Pierre Ranger, the voice behind the Let’s Remember Adam campaign. Pierre shares the heartbreaking story of his brother Adam, a young boy who was hit and killed by a driver who didn’t stop for a school bus. Since that...
Since that moment, Pierre and his family have made it their mission to make sure no one else has to go through what they did. The campaign has become a powerful reminder about the importance of stopping for school buses and protecting children as they get on and off safely.

4:10 Why Drivers Still Don’t Stop
08:56 How Policy Change Happened
20:00 The Push for Stop Arm Cameras
52:56 What’s Next for Let’s Remember Adam]]>3742busses,letsrememberadam,local,northbay,podcast,school,schoolbusfalse103fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/deputy-mayor-maggie-horsfield-on-fonom-centennial-and-what-2026-looks-like-for-north-bay--69196450
In this episode of Echo Essentials, Deputy Mayor Maggie Horsfield joins us to talk through what’s on the table. From the work that FONOM is doing for our community, to a look back at the centennial, to long-term budget pressures and growth, Maggie shares how council is approaching the next few years and what residents should be paying attention to.

0:00 Intro
4:00 Looking back at the centennial
11:30 FONOM
26:00 Bail Reform
33:30 2026 Budget]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69196450Thu, 01 Jan 2026 19:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkNorth Bay is heading into an important stretch. Major projects are underway, big questions remain, and decisions being made now will shape what the city looks like in 2026 and beyond. In this episode of Echo Essentials, Deputy Mayor Maggie Horsfield...
In this episode of Echo Essentials, Deputy Mayor Maggie Horsfield joins us to talk through what’s on the table. From the work that FONOM is doing for our community, to a look back at the centennial, to long-term budget pressures and growth, Maggie shares how council is approaching the next few years and what residents should be paying attention to.

0:00 Intro
4:00 Looking back at the centennial
11:30 FONOM
26:00 Bail Reform
33:30 2026 Budget]]>3690false102fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-stories-that-shaped-politics-in-2025-with-dr-david-tabachnik--69196449
In this Christmas Day episode of Echo Essentials, political scientist Dr David Tabachnik joins us to reflect on the stories that shaped politics over the past year. From local decisions to national debates and global shifts, we talk about what mattered, what surprised us, and what may have lasting consequences.

0:00 Intro
4:30 Key Local Issues in 2025
11:30 Provincial politics and the Near North school board takeover
19:30 Doug Ford’s election strategy and shifting political tone
28:00 Federal election shocks and Trudeau’s exit
37:00 Mark Carney’s rise and the carbon tax pivot
46:30 Alberta, pipelines, and separation talk
54:00 Political grades and looking ahead to 2026]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69196449Thu, 25 Dec 2025 19:00:07 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkAs the year comes to a close, it’s a good time to step back and make sense of everything that happened in politics. In this Christmas Day episode of Echo Essentials, political scientist Dr David Tabachnik joins us to reflect on the stories that...
In this Christmas Day episode of Echo Essentials, political scientist Dr David Tabachnik joins us to reflect on the stories that shaped politics over the past year. From local decisions to national debates and global shifts, we talk about what mattered, what surprised us, and what may have lasting consequences.

0:00 Intro
4:30 Key Local Issues in 2025
11:30 Provincial politics and the Near North school board takeover
19:30 Doug Ford’s election strategy and shifting political tone
28:00 Federal election shocks and Trudeau’s exit
37:00 Mark Carney’s rise and the carbon tax pivot
46:30 Alberta, pipelines, and separation talk
54:00 Political grades and looking ahead to 2026]]>3500alberta,carney,local,northbay,politics,trumpfalse101fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/no-one-alone-on-christmas-day-what-happens-when-you-open-the-doors-to-everyone--69120991
In this episode of Echo Essentials, we talk to Shawn Kettner one of the many people behind the event to hear how it all started, what it takes to bring it to life.

To find out more check out their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/98402051258/

0:00 – Intro
4:00 – How Big Christmas started
8:00 – What the event looks like
13:00 – Community support and volunteers
18:00 – Why the Elks Lodge matters
24:00 – The heart of the tradition
30:00 – How to attend or get involved
36:00 – Shawn’s favorite holiday things]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69120991Thu, 18 Dec 2025 19:00:07 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkEvery year in North Bay, hundreds of people gather for something truly special. It’s called The Big Christmas, and it’s more than just a meal. It’s a place where anyone can come in, sit down, and feel like they belong. In this episode of Echo...
In this episode of Echo Essentials, we talk to Shawn Kettner one of the many people behind the event to hear how it all started, what it takes to bring it to life.

To find out more check out their facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/groups/98402051258/

0:00 – Intro
4:00 – How Big Christmas started
8:00 – What the event looks like
13:00 – Community support and volunteers
18:00 – Why the Elks Lodge matters
24:00 – The heart of the tradition
30:00 – How to attend or get involved
36:00 – Shawn’s favorite holiday things]]>2863christmas,christmasday,holidays,northbayfalse100fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/who-speaks-for-our-schools-now-a-former-trustee-s-take-on-the-near-north-shakeup--68991474
In this episode of Echo Essentials, former trustee Louise Sargent shares her perspective on what led to this decision, how it has impacted transparency and trust, and what the future holds now that there are no publicly elected representees on the board.

0:00 – Intro
3:15 – Trustees Dismissed by the Province
10:04 – Why the School Board Was Really Dissolved
20:45 – The Parry Sound School Build
32:10 – Losing Democracy in the North
41:20 – One Supervisor Replacing Nine Trustees
51:30 – What’s Next for the North’s Public Education]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68991474Thu, 11 Dec 2025 19:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn Northern Ontario, something serious is happening in public education. The Minister of Education has stepped in and taken control of the Near North District School Board, removing authority from elected trustees and shifting decision-making away...
In this episode of Echo Essentials, former trustee Louise Sargent shares her perspective on what led to this decision, how it has impacted transparency and trust, and what the future holds now that there are no publicly elected representees on the board.

0:00 – Intro
3:15 – Trustees Dismissed by the Province
10:04 – Why the School Board Was Really Dissolved
20:45 – The Parry Sound School Build
32:10 – Losing Democracy in the North
41:20 – One Supervisor Replacing Nine Trustees
51:30 – What’s Next for the North’s Public Education]]>4413education,nearnorth,northbay,politics,schoolboard,trusteesfalse99fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/fighting-for-paddle-when-the-province-looks-away--68885423
In this episode of Echo Essentials, we sit down with executive director Megan Johnson to talk about the growing funding crisis, what PADDLE does every day, and why people across the North are stepping up to keep it alive.

BayToday Letter to the Editor: https://www.baytoday.ca/letters-to-the-editor/letter-paddle-program-at-risk-as-province-denies-core-funding-11545243

0:00 Intro
3:30 What PADDLE actually does and who it serves
6:00 The funding crisis and what’s at stake
10:15 The reality of long waitlists and systemic gaps
17:00 What community support looks like in action
24:40 Why charity alone isn’t enough
32:00 Outdated policies and real-world consequences
41:00 A call to action for the province and community]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68885423Thu, 04 Dec 2025 18:56:56 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkPADDLE is a community-based day program in North Bay that supports adults with developmental disabilities. It’s a lifeline for families, a space of independence for participants, and a model of care that should be celebrated. In this episode of Echo...
In this episode of Echo Essentials, we sit down with executive director Megan Johnson to talk about the growing funding crisis, what PADDLE does every day, and why people across the North are stepping up to keep it alive.

BayToday Letter to the Editor: https://www.baytoday.ca/letters-to-the-editor/letter-paddle-program-at-risk-as-province-denies-core-funding-11545243

0:00 Intro
3:30 What PADDLE actually does and who it serves
6:00 The funding crisis and what’s at stake
10:15 The reality of long waitlists and systemic gaps
17:00 What community support looks like in action
24:40 Why charity alone isn’t enough
32:00 Outdated policies and real-world consequences
41:00 A call to action for the province and community]]>2957dougford,government,ontario,paddlefalse96fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/talking-doug-ford-and-ontario-politics-with-professor-of-political-science-dr-david-tabachnick--68786298

We also talk about the newest bills that have past in the province and he gives his take on why the Near North District School Board should not be taken over by the ministry.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68786298Fri, 28 Nov 2025 16:16:53 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode we are joined by Dr David Tabachnick, Professor of Political Science at Nipissing University, to talk about the current provincial government. We also talk about the newest bills that have past in the province and he gives his take...

We also talk about the newest bills that have past in the province and he gives his take on why the Near North District School Board should not be taken over by the ministry.
]]>3324false97fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-new-era-begins-introducing-isaac-to-the-echo-team--68657289
Isaac shares a bit about his background, what drew him to Echo, and how he hopes to shape the stories we tell going forward.

Chris also shares his future plans and how he will remain connected with Echo

0:00 – Intro
3:36 – Isaac’s Background and Why He Joined Echo
7:12 – Why Community Storytelling Matters
8:15 – Supporting Clubs, Groups, and Underrepresented Voices
10:11 – Echo’s Role in Rebuilding Community Connection
15:08 – Balancing Storytelling with Journalistic Integrity
21:00 – What Chris Learned Hosting Echo Essentials
37:18 – Chris Reflects on His Next Chapter]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68657289Thu, 20 Nov 2025 19:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode, we introduce Isaac Sturkey, the newest member of our team. He’s stepping into the role of Content Director and Client Strategy with a passion for storytelling and a strong connection to the North Bay community. Isaac shares a bit...
Isaac shares a bit about his background, what drew him to Echo, and how he hopes to shape the stories we tell going forward.

Chris also shares his future plans and how he will remain connected with Echo

0:00 – Intro
3:36 – Isaac’s Background and Why He Joined Echo
7:12 – Why Community Storytelling Matters
8:15 – Supporting Clubs, Groups, and Underrepresented Voices
10:11 – Echo’s Role in Rebuilding Community Connection
15:08 – Balancing Storytelling with Journalistic Integrity
21:00 – What Chris Learned Hosting Echo Essentials
37:18 – Chris Reflects on His Next Chapter]]>2703false96fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/would-you-still-drink-it-if-you-knew-what-was-in-it-the-truth-about-north-bay-s-drinking-water--68557054
In this week's episode of Echo Essentials, host Chris Piekarski sits down with Liza Vandermeer and Carol Hansman to detail the shocking story of PFAS contamination in Trout Lake, North Bay's main drinking water source.

From discussing how the decades-long dumping and use of firefighting foam and how it's contaminated Trout Lake and Lees Creek, this episode dives into the science, silence and the politics surrounding what’s known as the “forever chemicals” that inhabits North Bay's drinking water.

What is the cleanup plan? Why has public conversation gone quiet? Where did the buck stop and who’s really responsible? 

Come for the facts: stay for the call to action. And don’t miss the public information session on November 19!

Special thanks to Masih Khalatbari of the Investigative Journalism Bureau for his support and coverage of this story. You can find his piece here: https://ijb.utoronto.ca/news/feds-covered-up-toxic-forever-chemicals-in-the-water-in-this-ontario-city-for-5-years/

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68557054Thu, 13 Nov 2025 19:21:35 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkNorth Bay’s drinking water might look, taste, and smell normal—but do you really know what’s swimming around in your glass? In this week's episode of Echo Essentials, host Chris Piekarski sits down with Liza Vandermeer and Carol Hansman to detail the...
In this week's episode of Echo Essentials, host Chris Piekarski sits down with Liza Vandermeer and Carol Hansman to detail the shocking story of PFAS contamination in Trout Lake, North Bay's main drinking water source.

From discussing how the decades-long dumping and use of firefighting foam and how it's contaminated Trout Lake and Lees Creek, this episode dives into the science, silence and the politics surrounding what’s known as the “forever chemicals” that inhabits North Bay's drinking water.

What is the cleanup plan? Why has public conversation gone quiet? Where did the buck stop and who’s really responsible? 

Come for the facts: stay for the call to action. And don’t miss the public information session on November 19!

Special thanks to Masih Khalatbari of the Investigative Journalism Bureau for his support and coverage of this story. You can find his piece here: https://ijb.utoronto.ca/news/feds-covered-up-toxic-forever-chemicals-in-the-water-in-this-ontario-city-for-5-years/

]]>3462false95fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/did-north-bay-s-city-council-get-it-right-dissecting-the-mayor-s-expense-scandal-saga--68451070
The City of North Bay has been buzzing after Mayor Peter Chirico’s expense controversy, and former host Dave Dale is back to break it all down with Chris.

From questionable meal claims to battalion tickets and golf outings, we dive deep into what the integrity commissioner said in his report, and whether 60 days of docked pay was enough to satisfy the citizens.

We talk political fallout, future elections, and if Dave himself is still considering a future in municipal politics in 2026.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68451070Thu, 06 Nov 2025 18:49:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkCity Council has made it's decision, so it's finally time for us to talk about it... The City of North Bay has been buzzing after Mayor Peter Chirico’s expense controversy, and former host Dave Dale is back to break it all down with Chris. From...
The City of North Bay has been buzzing after Mayor Peter Chirico’s expense controversy, and former host Dave Dale is back to break it all down with Chris.

From questionable meal claims to battalion tickets and golf outings, we dive deep into what the integrity commissioner said in his report, and whether 60 days of docked pay was enough to satisfy the citizens.

We talk political fallout, future elections, and if Dave himself is still considering a future in municipal politics in 2026.]]>4326false94fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trudeau-trump-and-carney-anthony-rota-reflects-on-the-state-of-politics-in-canada--68350971
From Pierre Poilievre’s missed opportunity to Trump’s impact on Canadian trade and how Mark Carney is toeing the line for centrist policies, Anthony shares what life is like post-politics and offers his unfiltered take on Canada’s political future.

Does Anthony think the Conservatives blew it in the last Federal election? Is Canada finally stepping out of the U.S.'s shadow? And what does Anthony REALLY think about the future of our electoral system?
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68350971Thu, 30 Oct 2025 18:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkFormer MP of Nipissing-Timiskaming and the 37th Speaker of the House Anthony Rota returns to Echo Essentials for an open book conversation with Chris Piekarski. From Pierre Poilievre’s missed opportunity to Trump’s impact on Canadian trade and how...
From Pierre Poilievre’s missed opportunity to Trump’s impact on Canadian trade and how Mark Carney is toeing the line for centrist policies, Anthony shares what life is like post-politics and offers his unfiltered take on Canada’s political future.

Does Anthony think the Conservatives blew it in the last Federal election? Is Canada finally stepping out of the U.S.'s shadow? And what does Anthony REALLY think about the future of our electoral system?
]]>3761false93fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-compassionate-committee-for-the-homeless-in-north-bay-who-are-they-and-what-do-they-do--68254655
They share the story of how one emotional moment sparked a movement that's bringing churches from across the City together, by providing unhoused persons with essentials, and challenging the stigma around homelessness in our community. Leah and Lisa also detail their upcoming annual information session, titled "What you need to know about helping people who are experiencing homelessness" and what community members can expect to take-away.

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68254655Thu, 23 Oct 2025 18:26:27 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode of Echo Essentials, we’re joined by Leah Pierce and Lisa Henry from The Compassionate Committee for the Homeless in North Bay. They share the story of how one emotional moment sparked a movement that's bringing churches from across...
They share the story of how one emotional moment sparked a movement that's bringing churches from across the City together, by providing unhoused persons with essentials, and challenging the stigma around homelessness in our community. Leah and Lisa also detail their upcoming annual information session, titled "What you need to know about helping people who are experiencing homelessness" and what community members can expect to take-away.

]]>3409false92fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-costs-of-hospice-care-provincial-support-and-fundraising-with-the-nipissing-serenity-hospice--68168224
Bernadette and Chris detail the surprising dollar number that must be fundraised every year just to cover what the provincial government wont. They also debrief the Hike for Hospice fundraiser, and how the local event shattered expectations, raising over $145,000!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68168224Thu, 16 Oct 2025 19:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThis week on Echo Essentials, Chris sits down with Bernadette Lindsay, Fund Development Coordinator at the Nipissing Serenity Hospice, to uncover the financial truths behind hospice care in Ontario. From eye-opening budget gaps to heartwarming...
Bernadette and Chris detail the surprising dollar number that must be fundraised every year just to cover what the provincial government wont. They also debrief the Hike for Hospice fundraiser, and how the local event shattered expectations, raising over $145,000!]]>2545false91fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/checking-in-with-the-gathering-place-the-devastating-impact-of-food-insecurity-in-2025--68068521
From confronting outdated stigmas to showcasing the daily hustle of volunteers, this episode is a raw and eye-opening look into a vital organization doing more with less. Plus, get a sneak peek into their biggest annual fundraiser: Soup’s On—where North Bay’s best soups go head-to-head.

Share this episode and be part of the change. If you can, visit https://thegatheringplacenorthbay.ca/ to see how you can help support their mission.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68068521Thu, 09 Oct 2025 18:00:07 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this week's episode of Echo Essentials, we go behind the scenes at The Gathering Place—North Bay’s frontline solution to food insecurity. Chris Piekarski visits The Gathering Place to sit down with Board Chair Peter Gregory and Operations Manager...
From confronting outdated stigmas to showcasing the daily hustle of volunteers, this episode is a raw and eye-opening look into a vital organization doing more with less. Plus, get a sneak peek into their biggest annual fundraiser: Soup’s On—where North Bay’s best soups go head-to-head.

Share this episode and be part of the change. If you can, visit https://thegatheringplacenorthbay.ca/ to see how you can help support their mission.]]>3176false90fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-froze-development-on-trout-lake-for-40-years--67972584
Beverley reveals the reason why lot creation was frozen in the 90s, what 400+ new lots could mean for Trout Lake, and how phosphorus, septic systems, and shoreline buffers are now at the center of North Bay’s environmental planning.

They also dig into the next phase of the Downtown Waterfront Master Plan, community engagement strategies, and how the City can continue to develop downtown.

To review the policies and phases of the full Trout Lake Watershed and Management Plan, please visit https://northbay.ca/our-community/trout-lake-study/

To review the Downtown Waterfront Master Plan, please visit https://northbay.ca/our-community/downtown-waterfront-master-plan/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67972584Thu, 02 Oct 2025 18:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode of Echo Essentials, host Chris Piekarski sits down with the City of North Bay’s Planning Manager Beverley Hillier to unpack the long-awaited Trout Lake Watershed policy review. Beverley reveals the reason why lot creation was frozen...
Beverley reveals the reason why lot creation was frozen in the 90s, what 400+ new lots could mean for Trout Lake, and how phosphorus, septic systems, and shoreline buffers are now at the center of North Bay’s environmental planning.

They also dig into the next phase of the Downtown Waterfront Master Plan, community engagement strategies, and how the City can continue to develop downtown.

To review the policies and phases of the full Trout Lake Watershed and Management Plan, please visit https://northbay.ca/our-community/trout-lake-study/

To review the Downtown Waterfront Master Plan, please visit https://northbay.ca/our-community/downtown-waterfront-master-plan/ ]]>3117cityplanningcanada,climateresilientcommunities,eastferris,echoessentials,environmentalplanning,northbay,northbayplanning,ontarioenvironment,septicsystems,troutlake,troutlakenorthbay,urbanplanning,waterfrontdevelopment,watershed,watershedpolicyfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/vision-park-north-the-future-jewel-of-north-bay-s-downtown-waterfront-area--67879349
Brannyn shares the years-long journey behind this project, what makes this development unlike anything else in the region, and how it was designed for northern Ontarians. From luxurious rooftop terraces and sauna to a walkable lifestyle right on the water, this episode dives into the future of real estate in North Bay.

To learn more about Vision Park North and what to expect, visit visionparknorth.ca.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67879349Thu, 25 Sep 2025 18:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode of Echo Essentials, host Chris Piekarski sits down with Brannyn Hale from Green Vision Developments to discuss Vision Park North, a transformative waterfront condo development that’s set to reshape the downtown and waterfront of North...
Brannyn shares the years-long journey behind this project, what makes this development unlike anything else in the region, and how it was designed for northern Ontarians. From luxurious rooftop terraces and sauna to a walkable lifestyle right on the water, this episode dives into the future of real estate in North Bay.

To learn more about Vision Park North and what to expect, visit visionparknorth.ca.]]>2835false88fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/creating-innovating-surviving-in-the-education-space-nipissing-university-s-dr-kevin-wamsley--67810002
From strategic budgeting and expanding STEM programs, to supporting international students and building cultural inclusivity, Dr. Wamsley shares powerful insights on what it means, and what it takes, to lead in higher education today.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67810002Thu, 18 Sep 2025 18:00:09 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkWhat does it really take to lead a university, through good times and bad? In this episode of Echo Essentials, host Chris Piekarski sits down with Dr. Kevin Wamsley, President and Vice-Chancellor of Nipissing University, to talk about the...
From strategic budgeting and expanding STEM programs, to supporting international students and building cultural inclusivity, Dr. Wamsley shares powerful insights on what it means, and what it takes, to lead in higher education today.]]>3469false87fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/changing-the-narrative-world-suicide-prevention-day-with-the-canadian-mental-health-association--67722181
 From new suicide grief support groups to free SafeTALK training, discover how CMHA is equipping people with the tools to save lives and heal from traumatic loss. The conversation dives into stigma, the power of restorative storytelling, supporting high-performance athletes, and the simple ways we can all make a difference.

Resources:

Suicide Crisis Helpline Call or text 9-8-8 

Kids Help Phone
Text: 686868
Call: 1-800-668-6868 Chat: KidsHelpPhone.ca 


Crisis Intervention: 1-800-352-1411

Mobile Crisis Response Teams
North Bay Police Service: 705-472-1234
North Bay OPP: 1-888-310-1122

Hope for Wellness Helpline: (Crisis Support for Indigenous Peoples) 1-855-242-3310

Free suicide grief support group and prevention training available this fall: https://nbd.cmha.ca/news/free-suicide-grief-support-group-and-prevention-training-available-this-fall/ CMHA North Bay and District: https://nbd.cmha.ca/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67722181Thu, 11 Sep 2025 18:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this week's Echo Essentials episode, Chris sits down with Malinda and Kyla from the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) North Bay to talk about World Suicide Prevention Day.  From new suicide grief support groups to free SafeTALK training,...
 From new suicide grief support groups to free SafeTALK training, discover how CMHA is equipping people with the tools to save lives and heal from traumatic loss. The conversation dives into stigma, the power of restorative storytelling, supporting high-performance athletes, and the simple ways we can all make a difference.

Resources:

Suicide Crisis Helpline Call or text 9-8-8 

Kids Help Phone
Text: 686868
Call: 1-800-668-6868 Chat: KidsHelpPhone.ca 


Crisis Intervention: 1-800-352-1411

Mobile Crisis Response Teams
North Bay Police Service: 705-472-1234
North Bay OPP: 1-888-310-1122

Hope for Wellness Helpline: (Crisis Support for Indigenous Peoples) 1-855-242-3310

Free suicide grief support group and prevention training available this fall: https://nbd.cmha.ca/news/free-suicide-grief-support-group-and-prevention-training-available-this-fall/ CMHA North Bay and District: https://nbd.cmha.ca/]]>3061false86fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/running-against-the-system-why-dillon-anderson-took-on-pierre-poilievre--67632064
In this episode of Echo Essentials, Dillon explains what inspired him to join the longest ballot, how he legally ran in a province he doesn’t live in, and why he thinks Canada’s electoral system needs a serious overhaul.

02:30 – The Longest Ballot Committee
05:30 – Protest or Interference?
11:00 – Campaigning Without a Budget
20:15 – What He Learned in Alberta
35:30 – The Future of Local Democracy]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67632064Thu, 04 Sep 2025 18:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkWhen Ontario student Dillon Anderson ran against Pierre Poilievre in Alberta, it wasn’t about winning but making a point. In this episode of Echo Essentials, Dillon explains what inspired him to join the longest ballot, how he legally ran in a...
In this episode of Echo Essentials, Dillon explains what inspired him to join the longest ballot, how he legally ran in a province he doesn’t live in, and why he thinks Canada’s electoral system needs a serious overhaul.

02:30 – The Longest Ballot Committee
05:30 – Protest or Interference?
11:00 – Campaigning Without a Budget
20:15 – What He Learned in Alberta
35:30 – The Future of Local Democracy]]>3407false85fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/kathleen-rochon-does-her-homework-speaking-with-west-nipissing-mayor-about-local-issues--67542577
Mayor Kathleen Rochon of West Nipissing joins Echo Essentials to share the highs, lows, and behind-the-scenes stories of running a geographically vast rural community. From fixing broken council culture to taking a stand on controversial environmental issues, Kathleen shares her thoughts.

Mayor Rochon and Chris discuss some local stories surrounding West Nipissing, including the glyphosate spray plan in the West Nipissing Forest, how the OPP became the law enforcement service in the area, big lottery winners and what it's like developing infrastructure on a municipality budget.

Will Mayor Rochon discuss where she prefers her poutine? Does she have a favourite between Riv's or Larry's? Tune in to find out!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67542577Thu, 28 Aug 2025 16:52:26 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkWhat’s it really like being a first-time mayor in one of Northern Ontario’s largest municipalities? Mayor Kathleen Rochon of West Nipissing joins Echo Essentials to share the highs, lows, and behind-the-scenes stories of running a geographically vast...
Mayor Kathleen Rochon of West Nipissing joins Echo Essentials to share the highs, lows, and behind-the-scenes stories of running a geographically vast rural community. From fixing broken council culture to taking a stand on controversial environmental issues, Kathleen shares her thoughts.

Mayor Rochon and Chris discuss some local stories surrounding West Nipissing, including the glyphosate spray plan in the West Nipissing Forest, how the OPP became the law enforcement service in the area, big lottery winners and what it's like developing infrastructure on a municipality budget.

Will Mayor Rochon discuss where she prefers her poutine? Does she have a favourite between Riv's or Larry's? Tune in to find out!]]>2944false84fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/scams-in-the-city-how-the-north-bay-police-service-bust-fraudsters--67377914
In this week's episode of Echo Essentials, host Chris Piekarski sits down with Detective Constable Zach Dagg and Constable Merv Shantz from the North Bay Police Service (NBPS) to dive deep into the frightening world of fraudsters and scammers. From door-to-door “contractors” and impersonation scams, to AI-generated voices pretending to be loved ones, their methods are evolving! 

The officers detail with Chris some preventative measures on how to avoid being scammed, detailing how scammers prey on fear, trust, and emotion, and what red flags you need to recognize. 

Whether you’re tech-savvy or just trying to keep grandma safe — this episode is a must-listen.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67377914Thu, 21 Aug 2025 14:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThink you’d never fall for a scam? Think again.  In this week's episode of Echo Essentials, host Chris Piekarski sits down with Detective Constable Zach Dagg and Constable Merv Shantz from the North Bay Police Service (NBPS) to dive deep into the...
In this week's episode of Echo Essentials, host Chris Piekarski sits down with Detective Constable Zach Dagg and Constable Merv Shantz from the North Bay Police Service (NBPS) to dive deep into the frightening world of fraudsters and scammers. From door-to-door “contractors” and impersonation scams, to AI-generated voices pretending to be loved ones, their methods are evolving! 

The officers detail with Chris some preventative measures on how to avoid being scammed, detailing how scammers prey on fear, trust, and emotion, and what red flags you need to recognize. 

Whether you’re tech-savvy or just trying to keep grandma safe — this episode is a must-listen.]]>2731false83fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/living-the-laker-life-talking-student-politics-with-the-nipissing-university-student-union-nusu--67368700
In this episode of Echo Essentials, host Chris Piekarski catches up with Matt Suszter (President, NUSU) and Abby Noonan (Administrative Assistant) for a candid, behind-the-scenes look at life inside the Nipissing University Student Union.

From student politics and leadership to battling food insecurity on campus, this episode dives into the rebranding of the on-campus food bank, “OWLS Week”, how to get involved with clubs & communities, and what struggles students are facing regarding housing, finances, and jobs.

Plus, hilarious stories about hot peppers, campus legends, and the maze-like architecture of Nipissing U's hallways. 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67368700Thu, 14 Aug 2025 15:43:34 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkWhat really goes on inside a university student union? In this episode of Echo Essentials, host Chris Piekarski catches up with Matt Suszter (President, NUSU) and Abby Noonan (Administrative Assistant) for a candid, behind-the-scenes look at life...
In this episode of Echo Essentials, host Chris Piekarski catches up with Matt Suszter (President, NUSU) and Abby Noonan (Administrative Assistant) for a candid, behind-the-scenes look at life inside the Nipissing University Student Union.

From student politics and leadership to battling food insecurity on campus, this episode dives into the rebranding of the on-campus food bank, “OWLS Week”, how to get involved with clubs & communities, and what struggles students are facing regarding housing, finances, and jobs.

Plus, hilarious stories about hot peppers, campus legends, and the maze-like architecture of Nipissing U's hallways. 
]]>2995false82fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/from-fax-machines-to-facebook-how-local-journalism-has-changed--67286493
Greg shares hilarious behind-the-scenes stories, emotional war memorial moments, and how covering news in a small city can get personal fast.

00:00 – Intro
03:00 – Greg joins the show: Fax machines, phone calls, and pre-internet reporting
06:15 – How local journalism has changed (and shrunk) 
17:00 – The Cenotaph story: Emotions and national significance
22:00 – How Canada Wins: Greg’s new series
25:30 – Reporting vs press releases & why stories matter 
38:00 – Injuries, football fields, and field turf vs chaos 
53:00 – The journalist’s job: asking hard questions ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67286493Thu, 07 Aug 2025 18:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode of Echo Essentials, veteran journalist Greg Estabrooks joins host Chris Piekarski to talk about the golden days of North Bay media, wild high school sports rivalries, and how today's journalists are navigating shrinking newsrooms and...
Greg shares hilarious behind-the-scenes stories, emotional war memorial moments, and how covering news in a small city can get personal fast.

00:00 – Intro
03:00 – Greg joins the show: Fax machines, phone calls, and pre-internet reporting
06:15 – How local journalism has changed (and shrunk) 
17:00 – The Cenotaph story: Emotions and national significance
22:00 – How Canada Wins: Greg’s new series
25:30 – Reporting vs press releases & why stories matter 
38:00 – Injuries, football fields, and field turf vs chaos 
53:00 – The journalist’s job: asking hard questions ]]>3325false81fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sayonara-dave-dale-a-legacy-of-truth-tenacity-and-stirring-the-political-pot--67207046
From fierce city hall controversies to the inside story of the Echo Podcast Network's inception, Dave tells all! Alongside Dave, Chris Piekarski is also joined by former Echo Essentials co-host Scott Clark, dive deep into the ethics of journalism, political heat in covering stories around North Bay, and what might be next for the seasoned journalist.

It's not goodbye Dave, it's see you later!

03:44 – How Echo Essentials started: An Important Lunch
04:30 – Dave’s controversial column on then-mayoral candidate Peter Chirico
07:00 – “Make North Bay Great Again”?
16:00 – Journalism vs Politics in a small city
22:00 – Dave reflects on his legacy and impact at the Echo Podcast Network and beyond
33:30 – Mayor’s expenses and accountability in local media
43:00 – Dave’s next column sneak peek: budgets & transparency
51:15 – Plans for Small Town Times + monthly podcasts
60:27 – What's next for Dave Dale?]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67207046Thu, 31 Jul 2025 19:27:54 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this unforgettable episode of Echo Essentials, we say farewell to the legendary Dave Dale as a permanent co-host of the Echo Essentials podcast. From fierce city hall controversies to the inside story of the Echo Podcast Network's inception, Dave...
From fierce city hall controversies to the inside story of the Echo Podcast Network's inception, Dave tells all! Alongside Dave, Chris Piekarski is also joined by former Echo Essentials co-host Scott Clark, dive deep into the ethics of journalism, political heat in covering stories around North Bay, and what might be next for the seasoned journalist.

It's not goodbye Dave, it's see you later!

03:44 – How Echo Essentials started: An Important Lunch
04:30 – Dave’s controversial column on then-mayoral candidate Peter Chirico
07:00 – “Make North Bay Great Again”?
16:00 – Journalism vs Politics in a small city
22:00 – Dave reflects on his legacy and impact at the Echo Podcast Network and beyond
33:30 – Mayor’s expenses and accountability in local media
43:00 – Dave’s next column sneak peek: budgets & transparency
51:15 – Plans for Small Town Times + monthly podcasts
60:27 – What's next for Dave Dale?]]>3690false80fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/expense-investigations-ward-debates-why-local-news-matters-will-konken-visits-echo-essentials--67029415
From discussing what the role of journalism is like in small communities, to the future of local media in the age of clickbait and shortened attention spans, Will shares his opinions and details his processes on being a journalist in the north.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67029415Thu, 24 Jul 2025 18:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode of Echo Essentials, hosts Chris and Dave welcome Will Konken, BayToday’s newest journalist, who’s been thrown into the heart of North Bay’s hottest local stories — from expense scandals to evolving city hall drama. From discussing...
From discussing what the role of journalism is like in small communities, to the future of local media in the age of clickbait and shortened attention spans, Will shares his opinions and details his processes on being a journalist in the north.]]>3680false79fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-mole-mobile-is-coming-to-north-bay-chatting-with-melanoma-canada-ceo-about-skin-cancer--67015839
In this episode of Echo Essentials, hosts Chris Piekarski and Dave Dale sit down with Falyn Katz, CEO of Melanoma Canada, to break down the rising rates of skin cancer, the free screening mobile unit visiting North Bay, and the biggest myths that put Canadians at risk.

This episode is full of personal stories, science-backed facts, and easy, life-saving tips. If you’ve ever skipped using SPF, wearing UPF or if you've brushed off a weird-looking mole, seek some shade and hit play!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67015839Thu, 17 Jul 2025 18:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThink sunscreen is just for summer? Think again. In this episode of Echo Essentials, hosts Chris Piekarski and Dave Dale sit down with Falyn Katz, CEO of Melanoma Canada, to break down the rising rates of skin cancer, the free screening mobile unit...
In this episode of Echo Essentials, hosts Chris Piekarski and Dave Dale sit down with Falyn Katz, CEO of Melanoma Canada, to break down the rising rates of skin cancer, the free screening mobile unit visiting North Bay, and the biggest myths that put Canadians at risk.

This episode is full of personal stories, science-backed facts, and easy, life-saving tips. If you’ve ever skipped using SPF, wearing UPF or if you've brushed off a weird-looking mole, seek some shade and hit play!]]>2885false78fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-kind-of-storm-hit-samuel-de-champlain-provincial-park--66926557
In this eye-opening episode of Echo Essentials, Chris Piekarski sits down for a call with Dr. David Sills, Director of the Northern Tornadoes Project, to talk about the storm that devastated part of Highway 17 East of North Bay, and how his team investigates extreme weather events across Ontario and Canada.

Dr. Sills also discusses how how downbursts differ from tornadoes, the science behind tree patterns, drone mapping, and the real reason why Ontario (not the Prairies) is now Canada's tornado hotspot. Chris also inquires if there is a direct correlation to the surge in storms in the province and climate change.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66926557Thu, 10 Jul 2025 18:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkWhat hit Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park wasn’t a tornado. It was something else... In this eye-opening episode of Echo Essentials, Chris Piekarski sits down for a call with Dr. David Sills, Director of the Northern Tornadoes Project, to talk...
In this eye-opening episode of Echo Essentials, Chris Piekarski sits down for a call with Dr. David Sills, Director of the Northern Tornadoes Project, to talk about the storm that devastated part of Highway 17 East of North Bay, and how his team investigates extreme weather events across Ontario and Canada.

Dr. Sills also discusses how how downbursts differ from tornadoes, the science behind tree patterns, drone mapping, and the real reason why Ontario (not the Prairies) is now Canada's tornado hotspot. Chris also inquires if there is a direct correlation to the surge in storms in the province and climate change.]]>2905false77fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/from-north-bay-to-royal-recognition-how-outloud-north-bay-is-changing-lives--66852650
The episode also discuss the emotional moment when Ontario’s Lieutenant Governor was brought to tears during her visit to OUTLoud's space, Riley's ascension into being a student leader at Canadore College, the mental health crises facing queer youth and how OUTLoud is committed to saving lives.

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66852650Thu, 03 Jul 2025 19:02:33 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkOUTLoud North Bay has been creating safe, affirming spaces for 2SLGBTQ+ youth for the past several years. In this week's episode, Chris Piekarski sits down with founder Seth Compton and volunteer Riley Ong to talk about their surprise invitation to...
The episode also discuss the emotional moment when Ontario’s Lieutenant Governor was brought to tears during her visit to OUTLoud's space, Riley's ascension into being a student leader at Canadore College, the mental health crises facing queer youth and how OUTLoud is committed to saving lives.

]]>18572slgbtqsupport,echoessentials,lgbtqyouth,northbayontario,outloudnorthbay,rileyong,royalrecognition,sethcompton,youthmentalhealthfalse76fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trapped-by-trees-roads-washed-out-inside-bonfield-s-emergency-response-with-mayor-deputy-mayor--66760535
In this episode of Echo Essentials, we sit down with Mayor Narry Paquette and Deputy Mayor Jason Corbett just days after the disaster. They walk Chris and Dave through how emergency response was mobilized in the middle of the night, and why small-town collaboration might be the secret to resilience. The Mayor and Deputy Mayor also outline what needs to happen next — from rebuilding roads to lobbying for funding at the provincial level.

00:00 – Intro
03:15 – How it all began: Late-night warnings & first emergency calls
09:40 – “We declared a state of emergency at 4 a.m.” — timeline breakdown
13:10 – Camping during chaos: A tree crashes on Deputy Mayor’s vehicle
17:40 – Over 100 road issues logged, crews deployed before midnight
22:00 – First responders bulldozing through fallen trees
25:30 – Community support: Neighbouring towns and private companies step in!
29:10 – Financial cost
33:00 – Provincial help, paperwork prep, and recovery planning
37:20 – Reflections on leadership, resilience, and lessons from 2008
41:00 – Final thoughts]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66760535Thu, 26 Jun 2025 18:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkWhen a freak storm ripped through Bonfield, Ontario, no one was ready for what came next: 100+ damaged roadways, families stranded in parks, trees smashing into vehicles, and a state of emergency declared at 4 a.m. In this episode of Echo Essentials,...
In this episode of Echo Essentials, we sit down with Mayor Narry Paquette and Deputy Mayor Jason Corbett just days after the disaster. They walk Chris and Dave through how emergency response was mobilized in the middle of the night, and why small-town collaboration might be the secret to resilience. The Mayor and Deputy Mayor also outline what needs to happen next — from rebuilding roads to lobbying for funding at the provincial level.

00:00 – Intro
03:15 – How it all began: Late-night warnings & first emergency calls
09:40 – “We declared a state of emergency at 4 a.m.” — timeline breakdown
13:10 – Camping during chaos: A tree crashes on Deputy Mayor’s vehicle
17:40 – Over 100 road issues logged, crews deployed before midnight
22:00 – First responders bulldozing through fallen trees
25:30 – Community support: Neighbouring towns and private companies step in!
29:10 – Financial cost
33:00 – Provincial help, paperwork prep, and recovery planning
37:20 – Reflections on leadership, resilience, and lessons from 2008
41:00 – Final thoughts]]>3577false75fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/north-bay-s-housing-situation-justine-mallah-on-what-the-city-is-doing-to-help--66630658
She breaks down what City Hall is doing, the roadblocks in the way, and why transparency and collaboration are key to making progress.

00:00 – Intro
05:00 – The housing issue North Bay can’t ignore
10:00 – What the city is doing now
15:00 – Barriers to real progress: funding, zoning & red tape
20:00 – Council dynamics and political will
25:00 – Justine’s personal drive and values
30:00 – Community voices and public input
35:00 – Rental markets, development pressure, and downtown impacts
40:00 – What collaboration across sectors could look like
45:00 – Balancing urgent needs with long-term vision
50:00 – What Justine wishes more residents understood]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66630658Thu, 19 Jun 2025 18:45:59 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIs North Bay doing enough to address its housing crisis? In this episode of Echo Essentials, City Councillor Justine Mallah opens up about the city's growing housing challenges—from affordability and zoning to the human impact on renters and...
She breaks down what City Hall is doing, the roadblocks in the way, and why transparency and collaboration are key to making progress.

00:00 – Intro
05:00 – The housing issue North Bay can’t ignore
10:00 – What the city is doing now
15:00 – Barriers to real progress: funding, zoning & red tape
20:00 – Council dynamics and political will
25:00 – Justine’s personal drive and values
30:00 – Community voices and public input
35:00 – Rental markets, development pressure, and downtown impacts
40:00 – What collaboration across sectors could look like
45:00 – Balancing urgent needs with long-term vision
50:00 – What Justine wishes more residents understood]]>2993false74fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/kindness-isn-t-soft-it-s-science--66537547
In this special Kindness Week episode of Echo Essentials Dr. Andrew Weeks explores the neuroscience and social psychology behind compassion.

From community programs to deeply personal moments, this episode asks: Can kindness really change the way we live together?]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66537547Thu, 12 Jun 2025 19:14:06 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkWhat if kindness wasn’t just a feel-good gesture—but a psychological superpower? In this special Kindness Week episode of Echo Essentials Dr. Andrew Weeks explores the neuroscience and social psychology behind compassion. From community programs to...
In this special Kindness Week episode of Echo Essentials Dr. Andrew Weeks explores the neuroscience and social psychology behind compassion.

From community programs to deeply personal moments, this episode asks: Can kindness really change the way we live together?]]>2659false73fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/measles-misinformation-public-health-with-dr-carol-zimbalatti--66409718
Whether you're a parent, educator, healthcare worker, or just someone trying to make sense of the headlines, this episode cuts through the noise with facts, compassion, and clarity. Measles isn’t just a relic illness from the past — it’s a present-day threat with real consequences. Join our co-hosts, Chris and Dave to find out what’s at stake, what you can do, and how protecting your community can start with making one key decision.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66409718Thu, 05 Jun 2025 19:03:01 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode of Echo Essentials, we sit down with Dr. Carol Zimbalatti, Medical Officer of Health/Health Executive for the North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit, to unpack the alarming resurgence of measles across Ontario and Canada —...
Whether you're a parent, educator, healthcare worker, or just someone trying to make sense of the headlines, this episode cuts through the noise with facts, compassion, and clarity. Measles isn’t just a relic illness from the past — it’s a present-day threat with real consequences. Join our co-hosts, Chris and Dave to find out what’s at stake, what you can do, and how protecting your community can start with making one key decision.]]>3771false72fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/new-mayor-familiar-face-rick-champagne-steps-into-east-ferris-leadership--66329052
From his early volunteer work to the council’s decision that led to his appointment, Champagne shares candid thoughts on local leadership, development pressure, and what comes next for East Ferris.


00:00 – Intro
08:50 – Why Rick didn’t run last election
14:20 – Inside the appointment process and council vote
19:45 – The challenges of saying yes to the mayor’s seat
25:30 – Growth in East Ferris: boom or bubble?
31:00 – Roads, housing, and the pressures of development
36:30 – What Rick hopes to accomplish as mayor
41:15 – Looking ahead: regional collaboration and community vision
46:00 – Final thoughts]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66329052Thu, 29 May 2025 19:16:41 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode, we sit down with Rick Champagne, newly appointed Mayor of East Ferris, to talk about stepping into the role, the unexpected path to the mayor’s seat, and how the community is balancing growth with identity. From his early volunteer...
From his early volunteer work to the council’s decision that led to his appointment, Champagne shares candid thoughts on local leadership, development pressure, and what comes next for East Ferris.


00:00 – Intro
08:50 – Why Rick didn’t run last election
14:20 – Inside the appointment process and council vote
19:45 – The challenges of saying yes to the mayor’s seat
25:30 – Growth in East Ferris: boom or bubble?
31:00 – Roads, housing, and the pressures of development
36:30 – What Rick hopes to accomplish as mayor
41:15 – Looking ahead: regional collaboration and community vision
46:00 – Final thoughts]]>3035false71fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/speeding-scooters-seatbelts-what-road-safety-week-revealed--66185295
From cell phone tickets and speeding hotspots to mobility scooters and modded bikes, this episode is a crash course in how enforcement works, what’s legal (and what’s not), and how to keep yourself safer on the road.

00:00 – Intro
05:15 – “150 collisions a month?” What’s really happening in North Bay
10:30 – Radar, LIDAR, and the tech behind traffic enforcement
15:45 – Who’s more dangerous: seniors or speeders?
21:00 – Top infractions in North Bay: speeding, cell phones, scooters
26:30 – The rise of enclosed mobility scooters & what’s legal
32:00 – Bikes, e-bikes & illegal gas-powered mods
37:15 – Seatbelt myths, fake belts & why enforcement still matters
42:30 – Roadside blitzes: 20+ tickets in a day & what they reveal
47:45 – Bald tires, spring driving & real maintenance risks
53:00 – Final tips for safer driving this summer]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66185295Thu, 22 May 2025 18:00:07 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkConstable Merv Shantz from the North Bay Police Service joins the show to talk about Ontario’s Road Safety Week — and what it actually looks like on the streets of North Bay. From cell phone tickets and speeding hotspots to mobility scooters and...
From cell phone tickets and speeding hotspots to mobility scooters and modded bikes, this episode is a crash course in how enforcement works, what’s legal (and what’s not), and how to keep yourself safer on the road.

00:00 – Intro
05:15 – “150 collisions a month?” What’s really happening in North Bay
10:30 – Radar, LIDAR, and the tech behind traffic enforcement
15:45 – Who’s more dangerous: seniors or speeders?
21:00 – Top infractions in North Bay: speeding, cell phones, scooters
26:30 – The rise of enclosed mobility scooters & what’s legal
32:00 – Bikes, e-bikes & illegal gas-powered mods
37:15 – Seatbelt myths, fake belts & why enforcement still matters
42:30 – Roadside blitzes: 20+ tickets in a day & what they reveal
47:45 – Bald tires, spring driving & real maintenance risks
53:00 – Final tips for safer driving this summer]]>3109false70fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/is-the-ward-system-the-answer-for-municipal-representation--66105954
Why has this idea resurfaced every election for 20+ years? What’s stopping the city from even studying it? And could a customized, hybrid system finally give residents the local representation they deserve?

00:00 – Intro
01:21 – Why we’re talking about the ward system now
05:07 – 20 years of political dodging: Why no one studies it
09:19 – Jamie Lowery joins the show
13:20 – What happened behind the scenes at council
17:30 – “$50,000 killed the conversation”
21:46 – What a made-for-North-Bay ward system could look like
26:07 – Representation vs. popularity: Who’s really on council?
30:47 – How at-large voting shuts out new voices
35:00 – Who would actually design a ward system?
39:00 – Should we cut council to make it work better?
44:13 – Electing a deputy mayor — or building stronger committees?
48:15 – Growing with purpose: what’s next for North Bay
53:10 – Engaging Gen Z & the next wave of local leaders
55:00 – Wrap-up]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66105954Thu, 15 May 2025 19:31:00 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkNorth Bay City Councillor Jamie Lowery joins us for a deep dive into one of North Bay’s most persistent political debates: the ward system. Why has this idea resurfaced every election for 20+ years? What’s stopping the city from even studying it? And...
Why has this idea resurfaced every election for 20+ years? What’s stopping the city from even studying it? And could a customized, hybrid system finally give residents the local representation they deserve?

00:00 – Intro
01:21 – Why we’re talking about the ward system now
05:07 – 20 years of political dodging: Why no one studies it
09:19 – Jamie Lowery joins the show
13:20 – What happened behind the scenes at council
17:30 – “$50,000 killed the conversation”
21:46 – What a made-for-North-Bay ward system could look like
26:07 – Representation vs. popularity: Who’s really on council?
30:47 – How at-large voting shuts out new voices
35:00 – Who would actually design a ward system?
39:00 – Should we cut council to make it work better?
44:13 – Electing a deputy mayor — or building stronger committees?
48:15 – Growing with purpose: what’s next for North Bay
53:10 – Engaging Gen Z & the next wave of local leaders
55:00 – Wrap-up]]>3434false69fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-bugs-are-back-how-to-deal-with-pests-this-spring-season--66000830
Geoff Richardson from Good Riddance Pest Control joins us for a practical, sometimes squirmy, conversation about what to expect this season, how to protect your home, and why some pest problems are more emotional than physical.

Chris and Dave also discuss some of the post election updates including Poilievre's attempt to run in Alberta.

00:00 – Intro & a different kind of pest
02:00 – Creepy crawlies and personal pest trauma
04:00 – Travel tips: avoiding bedbugs after vacation
06:00 – Post-election update: Poilievre & Carney
14:20 – Meet Jeff Richardson from Good Riddance
15:30 – Spring pest season: What’s showing up now
17:30 – Raid vs. professional pest control
20:00 – Spider season & safe treatment practices
23:00 – Bedbug breakdown: signs, smells, and behavior
27:00 – Heat vs. chemicals: how pros handle infestations
34:00 – Bedbugs in apartment buildings: what landlords miss
39:00 – Environmental rules & chemical safety
42:00 – Carpenter ants: chewing walls & how to stop them
48:00 – Rodents, bats & what’s actually considered a pest
54:00 – Outro]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66000830Thu, 08 May 2025 17:44:39 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkSpring has arrived—and so have the pests. From bedbugs and carpenter ants to fat spiders and cluster flies, pest season is officially here. Geoff Richardson from Good Riddance Pest Control joins us for a practical, sometimes squirmy, conversation...
Geoff Richardson from Good Riddance Pest Control joins us for a practical, sometimes squirmy, conversation about what to expect this season, how to protect your home, and why some pest problems are more emotional than physical.

Chris and Dave also discuss some of the post election updates including Poilievre's attempt to run in Alberta.

00:00 – Intro & a different kind of pest
02:00 – Creepy crawlies and personal pest trauma
04:00 – Travel tips: avoiding bedbugs after vacation
06:00 – Post-election update: Poilievre & Carney
14:20 – Meet Jeff Richardson from Good Riddance
15:30 – Spring pest season: What’s showing up now
17:30 – Raid vs. professional pest control
20:00 – Spider season & safe treatment practices
23:00 – Bedbug breakdown: signs, smells, and behavior
27:00 – Heat vs. chemicals: how pros handle infestations
34:00 – Bedbugs in apartment buildings: what landlords miss
39:00 – Environmental rules & chemical safety
42:00 – Carpenter ants: chewing walls & how to stop them
48:00 – Rodents, bats & what’s actually considered a pest
54:00 – Outro]]>3315false68fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/canada-has-decided-liberals-win-poilievre-loses-seat-party-leadership-talks--65828219
This episodes explores how the Liberal Party secured a strong minority government, who the NDP might look to lead the party, and examining what the future holds for Pierre Poilievre. Dr. Tabachnick also shares his thoughts on the nail-biter race in our Nipissing-Timiskaming riding, and if the Conservatives have hit a political ceiling under the present circumstances. The episode also details a look into the near future as well as discussing Alberta's challenging road to a separatist referendum.

Does Mark Carney have the tools to lead Canada into a new era of politics? Does Canada have the best leader to negotiate with US President Donald Trump's tariffs? Can Dave properly pronounce Pierre Poilievre's name correctly? Tune to this week's episode to find out!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65828219Thu, 01 May 2025 19:15:25 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode of Echo Essentials, Professor Dr. David Tabachnick of Nipissing University returns to breakdown everything that happened at both the federal and local levels for the 2025 Canadian Federal Election. This episodes explores how the...
This episodes explores how the Liberal Party secured a strong minority government, who the NDP might look to lead the party, and examining what the future holds for Pierre Poilievre. Dr. Tabachnick also shares his thoughts on the nail-biter race in our Nipissing-Timiskaming riding, and if the Conservatives have hit a political ceiling under the present circumstances. The episode also details a look into the near future as well as discussing Alberta's challenging road to a separatist referendum.

Does Mark Carney have the tools to lead Canada into a new era of politics? Does Canada have the best leader to negotiate with US President Donald Trump's tariffs? Can Dave properly pronounce Pierre Poilievre's name correctly? Tune to this week's episode to find out!]]>3402false67fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/from-mayor-to-liberal-mp-candidate-pauline-rochefort-on-carney-canada-s-future--65687807
Rochefort shares her thoughts on the Liberal leadership shift from Justin Trudeau to Mark Carney, breaking down her party’s approach to crime, details the Liberal housing affordability plan, and explains why she believes the future of Canada’s economy runs through rural innovation and clean energy collaboration.

We cover everything from her role in Treaty #9 negotiations and Canada’s lumber industry to the feedback she’s getting on the campaign trail in northern Ontario. With the federal election just around the corner, join Chris and Dave as they wrap up the local MP candidate coverage.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65687807Thu, 24 Apr 2025 17:50:36 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode of Echo Essentials, Chris and Dave sit down with Pauline Rochefort, Liberal candidate for Nipissing–Timiskaming and current mayor of East Ferris, to talk about the challenges—and opportunities—facing the party and the country....
Rochefort shares her thoughts on the Liberal leadership shift from Justin Trudeau to Mark Carney, breaking down her party’s approach to crime, details the Liberal housing affordability plan, and explains why she believes the future of Canada’s economy runs through rural innovation and clean energy collaboration.

We cover everything from her role in Treaty #9 negotiations and Canada’s lumber industry to the feedback she’s getting on the campaign trail in northern Ontario. With the federal election just around the corner, join Chris and Dave as they wrap up the local MP candidate coverage.]]>1861false66fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/from-ottawa-to-northern-ontario-can-cpc-candidate-garry-keller-flip-the-riding--65670140
We also dig into his stance on minority vs. majority governments, electoral reform, and whether Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre is really Canada’s “mini Trump.”

Whether you’re a Conservative supporter, undecided voter, or just trying to understand the local dynamics of this high-stakes federal election, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65670140Wed, 23 Apr 2025 18:00:07 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode of Echo Essentials, we speak with Garry Keller, Conservative Party of Canada candidate for Nipissing–Timiskaming, about his rise from working behind the scenes on Parliament Hill to running for office in his adopted hometown. Keller...
We also dig into his stance on minority vs. majority governments, electoral reform, and whether Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre is really Canada’s “mini Trump.”

Whether you’re a Conservative supporter, undecided voter, or just trying to understand the local dynamics of this high-stakes federal election, this conversation is one you won’t want to miss.]]>2751false65fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/out-of-the-farm-and-into-the-fire-ppc-john-janssen-discusses-canadian-election--65666036
In this episode of Echo Essentials, Chris and Dave sit down with John Janssen, the Federal PPC candidate for Nipissing–Timiskaming riding, for a direct conversation about immigration, housing, firearms, and the future of Canadian democracy.

John shares why he believes the PPC is the only party offering “real change,” his reasons for calling for a moratorium on immigration, and why he says mainstream conservatives and liberals are more similar than they are different.

We also explore vote-splitting, Maxime Bernier as a party leader, and what it’s like to run a campaign when you’re not a career politician.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65666036Tue, 22 Apr 2025 19:21:55 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkWhat happens when a hobby farmer and IT contractor steps into politics? In this episode of Echo Essentials, Chris and Dave sit down with John Janssen, the Federal PPC candidate for Nipissing–Timiskaming riding, for a direct conversation about...
In this episode of Echo Essentials, Chris and Dave sit down with John Janssen, the Federal PPC candidate for Nipissing–Timiskaming riding, for a direct conversation about immigration, housing, firearms, and the future of Canadian democracy.

John shares why he believes the PPC is the only party offering “real change,” his reasons for calling for a moratorium on immigration, and why he says mainstream conservatives and liberals are more similar than they are different.

We also explore vote-splitting, Maxime Bernier as a party leader, and what it’s like to run a campaign when you’re not a career politician.]]>2047false64fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/is-the-ndp-still-for-working-people-valerie-kennedy-has-something-to-say--65612516
We also break down the recent local debate between Keller (Conservative), Rochefort (Liberal), and Kennedy (NDP)—who stood out, what landed, and how strategy is shaping early voter momentum.

If you’ve ever asked, “What happened to working-class politics?”—this is the conversation for you. 

Timestamps:

00:00 – Local debate recap & early campaign impressions
13:40 – Valerie Kennedy interview begins
14:04 – Railway worker, union leader, and what pushed her into politics
16:40 – Community reactions on the campaign trail
18:10 – Healthcare, housing, and taxing the rich
20:00 – Disability support, unions, and working-class values
24:00 – Pipelines vs. railways: rethinking infrastructure
30:00 – Reaching voters face-to-face in modern campaigns
33:00 – Indigenous advocacy, civic education & what’s missing from policy
38:00 – Northern Ontario, rail connections & forgotten communities
45:30 – Early voting, grassroots campaigns, and how to get involved
48:30 – Why Valerie Kennedy is running—and who she’s standing with]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65612516Thu, 17 Apr 2025 18:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode of Echo Essentials, we sit down with Valerie Kennedy, the NDP candidate for Nipissing–Timiskaming, to talk about the cost of living, union support, pipelines, rail infrastructure, and her surprising entry into politics. From defending...
We also break down the recent local debate between Keller (Conservative), Rochefort (Liberal), and Kennedy (NDP)—who stood out, what landed, and how strategy is shaping early voter momentum.

If you’ve ever asked, “What happened to working-class politics?”—this is the conversation for you. 

Timestamps:

00:00 – Local debate recap & early campaign impressions
13:40 – Valerie Kennedy interview begins
14:04 – Railway worker, union leader, and what pushed her into politics
16:40 – Community reactions on the campaign trail
18:10 – Healthcare, housing, and taxing the rich
20:00 – Disability support, unions, and working-class values
24:00 – Pipelines vs. railways: rethinking infrastructure
30:00 – Reaching voters face-to-face in modern campaigns
33:00 – Indigenous advocacy, civic education & what’s missing from policy
38:00 – Northern Ontario, rail connections & forgotten communities
45:30 – Early voting, grassroots campaigns, and how to get involved
48:30 – Why Valerie Kennedy is running—and who she’s standing with]]>2918false63fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/previewing-the-2025-canadian-federal-election-how-accurate-are-the-polls--65530132
We explore the Trump effect on Canadian politics, the difference between urban and rural voters, and whether a youth-led voter shift could change the game.

Plus: How pipelines, trade, and mining are shaping the conversation here in North Bay. Whether you’re voting for the first time or trying to make sense of shifting alliances, this conversation will help you see the bigger picture—and the local impact in our community.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65530132Thu, 10 Apr 2025 19:05:05 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this episode of Echo Essentials, we sit down with Professor Dr. David Tabachnick of Nipissing University to unpack the upcoming federal election, what’s at stake for northern Ontario, and why this might be the most tense campaign in recent history....
We explore the Trump effect on Canadian politics, the difference between urban and rural voters, and whether a youth-led voter shift could change the game.

Plus: How pipelines, trade, and mining are shaping the conversation here in North Bay. Whether you’re voting for the first time or trying to make sense of shifting alliances, this conversation will help you see the bigger picture—and the local impact in our community.]]>4009false62fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/north-bay-deputy-mayor-ok-with-dissenting-opinions-about-budget-use-of-reserves--65339065
In an interview on the Echo Essentials Podcast, co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale sat down with Deputy Mayor Maggie Horsfield to discuss the budget’s impact, the challenges of municipal funding, and the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with city workers. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65339065Thu, 03 Apr 2025 18:17:56 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkNorth Bay’s City Council passed its much-anticipated operating budget this week, alongside a new contract agreement for union employees. In an interview on the Echo Essentials Podcast, co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale sat down with Deputy Mayor...
In an interview on the Echo Essentials Podcast, co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale sat down with Deputy Mayor Maggie Horsfield to discuss the budget’s impact, the challenges of municipal funding, and the importance of maintaining a strong relationship with city workers. ]]>3522false61fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/north-bay-pride-taking-different-approach-with-first-ever-executive-director--65163873
In a landmark moment for North Bay PRIDE, Jocelyn Green has been appointed as the organization's first-ever executive director. She joined co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale on the Echo Essentials podcast to discuss her vision for the organization, the challenges ahead, and the significance of her new role.

North Bay PRIDE has long been a vital force in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity within the region. However, the hiring of an executive director marks a significant step forward in its growth and sustainability. Green brings extensive experience in community leadership and advocacy, positioning her as the ideal candidate to lead the organization into its next chapter. During the conversation, Green shared her excitement and determination to build upon the foundation laid by passionate volunteers and organizers. She acknowledged that the role comes with a learning curve but expressed confidence in her ability to strengthen North Bay PRIDE’s impact.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65163873Thu, 27 Mar 2025 18:01:12 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkJocelyn Green wants to accentuate inclusivity and anti-hate as the newly-hired first-ever executive director for North Bay PRIDE, explaining that she wants to build bridges in the community rather than build walls. In a landmark moment for North Bay...
In a landmark moment for North Bay PRIDE, Jocelyn Green has been appointed as the organization's first-ever executive director. She joined co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale on the Echo Essentials podcast to discuss her vision for the organization, the challenges ahead, and the significance of her new role.

North Bay PRIDE has long been a vital force in advocating for LGBTQ+ rights and inclusivity within the region. However, the hiring of an executive director marks a significant step forward in its growth and sustainability. Green brings extensive experience in community leadership and advocacy, positioning her as the ideal candidate to lead the organization into its next chapter. During the conversation, Green shared her excitement and determination to build upon the foundation laid by passionate volunteers and organizers. She acknowledged that the role comes with a learning curve but expressed confidence in her ability to strengthen North Bay PRIDE’s impact.]]>3702false60fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/breaking-the-stigma-mental-health-addiction-in-our-community--65000737Editorial notes for this episode

• The article that Stu Campaigne wrote about the facility on Lakeshore Dr. is not connected to the CMHA NBD-NBRHC bed-based expansion. This is addressed at the 19 minute mark however it is mentioned a few times before which may cause confusion.
• The segment about mental health spending in Canada (44-minute mark) isn’t entirely clear. The 6 per cent represents the investment in mental health care as a proportion of overall health care budgets, not GDP (as Scott references, which explains his remark that this is “massive:.) In other words, on average the provinces and territories spend about 6 per cent of their healthcare budgets on mental health. In 2024-2025, the figure was 5.9 per cent in Ontario. This represents a tiny fraction of overall healthcare spending.

In this episode of Echo Essentials, we dive deep into mental health, addiction, and housing challenges in North Bay with Mary Davis & Mary Montgomery from CMHA North Bay & District. With rising homelessness, a growing opioid crisis, and shifting government policies, are we making progress or falling behind?

Key Takeaways:
✅ How mental health and addiction are deeply connected
✅ The impact of homelessness on mental health recovery
✅ Why harm reduction strategies are debated but essential
✅ What North Bay is doing to improve access to care
✅ How you can help or get support

If you or someone you know is struggling If you or someone you know needs support, contact CMHA North Bay & District at: 705 476 4088 or at their website: https://nbd.cmha.ca/ 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65000737Thu, 20 Mar 2025 19:44:54 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkEditorial notes for this episode - The article that Stu Campaigne wrote about the facility on Lakeshore Dr. is not connected to the CMHA NBD-NBRHC bed-based expansion. This is addressed at the 19 minute mark however it is mentioned a few times...Editorial notes for this episode

• The article that Stu Campaigne wrote about the facility on Lakeshore Dr. is not connected to the CMHA NBD-NBRHC bed-based expansion. This is addressed at the 19 minute mark however it is mentioned a few times before which may cause confusion.
• The segment about mental health spending in Canada (44-minute mark) isn’t entirely clear. The 6 per cent represents the investment in mental health care as a proportion of overall health care budgets, not GDP (as Scott references, which explains his remark that this is “massive:.) In other words, on average the provinces and territories spend about 6 per cent of their healthcare budgets on mental health. In 2024-2025, the figure was 5.9 per cent in Ontario. This represents a tiny fraction of overall healthcare spending.

In this episode of Echo Essentials, we dive deep into mental health, addiction, and housing challenges in North Bay with Mary Davis & Mary Montgomery from CMHA North Bay & District. With rising homelessness, a growing opioid crisis, and shifting government policies, are we making progress or falling behind?

Key Takeaways:
✅ How mental health and addiction are deeply connected
✅ The impact of homelessness on mental health recovery
✅ Why harm reduction strategies are debated but essential
✅ What North Bay is doing to improve access to care
✅ How you can help or get support

If you or someone you know is struggling If you or someone you know needs support, contact CMHA North Bay & District at: 705 476 4088 or at their website: https://nbd.cmha.ca/ 
]]>3373false59fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/pauline-rochefort-talks-liberal-campaign-local-issues--64866687
In this Echo Essentials episode, recorded from an ice hut on Lake Nipissing, we sit down with Pauline Rochefort, the newly acclaimed Liberal candidate for Nipissing-Timiskaming, to talk about:

✅ The Future of the Liberal Party – Will a new leader change the direction of the party?
✅ Election 2025 Predictions – What voters in Northern Ontario want from the next government
✅ Biggest Local Issues – From affordable housing to highway safety & transportation
✅ Why She’s Running – What motivated Pauline to jump from Mayor of East Ferris to federal politics
✅ The State of Canadian Politics – Can the Liberals hold onto power, or is change coming?

📍 Plus: Fishing, ice huts, and a few surprises along the way! 🎣❄️

🎧 Listen now & join the conversation!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64866687Thu, 13 Mar 2025 18:55:35 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkWith Canada’s next federal election on the horizon, big changes are coming for the Liberal Party—but what does that mean for Northern Ontario? In this Echo Essentials episode, recorded from an ice hut on Lake Nipissing, we sit down with Pauline...
In this Echo Essentials episode, recorded from an ice hut on Lake Nipissing, we sit down with Pauline Rochefort, the newly acclaimed Liberal candidate for Nipissing-Timiskaming, to talk about:

✅ The Future of the Liberal Party – Will a new leader change the direction of the party?
✅ Election 2025 Predictions – What voters in Northern Ontario want from the next government
✅ Biggest Local Issues – From affordable housing to highway safety & transportation
✅ Why She’s Running – What motivated Pauline to jump from Mayor of East Ferris to federal politics
✅ The State of Canadian Politics – Can the Liberals hold onto power, or is change coming?

📍 Plus: Fishing, ice huts, and a few surprises along the way! 🎣❄️

🎧 Listen now & join the conversation!]]>1892false58fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-crisis-in-local-journalism-what-s-next-for-small-town-news--64733597
In this episode of Echo Essentials, hosts Scott Clark and Stu Campaigne explore the challenges facing local newsrooms, from shrinking editorial teams to the growing pressures of digital media.

With investigative journalism struggling to keep up, what’s next for the industry?💡

Topics Covered:
✔️ The decline of newsroom staff and its impact on news quality
✔️ Why investigative journalism is harder than ever
✔️ The role of digital media and the battle for audience attention
✔️ Ethical challenges and the personal toll on journalists
✔️ The future of small-market journalism—can it survive?

Whether you're a media professional, a news junkie, or simply someone who values credible journalism, this episode dives deep into the past, present, and future of local news.🎧

 Listen now and join the conversation!

 Follow Echo Essentials for more insights on media, culture, and current events

#Journalism #MediaIndustry #LocalNews #InvestigativeJournalism #Newsrooms #EchoEssentials #DigitalMedia #Podcast]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64733597Thu, 06 Mar 2025 19:00:07 +0000The Echo Podcast Network📰 The media landscape is changing—what does that mean for local journalism? In this episode of Echo Essentials, hosts Scott Clark and Stu Campaigne explore the challenges facing local newsrooms, from shrinking editorial teams to the growing pressures...
In this episode of Echo Essentials, hosts Scott Clark and Stu Campaigne explore the challenges facing local newsrooms, from shrinking editorial teams to the growing pressures of digital media.

With investigative journalism struggling to keep up, what’s next for the industry?💡

Topics Covered:
✔️ The decline of newsroom staff and its impact on news quality
✔️ Why investigative journalism is harder than ever
✔️ The role of digital media and the battle for audience attention
✔️ Ethical challenges and the personal toll on journalists
✔️ The future of small-market journalism—can it survive?

Whether you're a media professional, a news junkie, or simply someone who values credible journalism, this episode dives deep into the past, present, and future of local news.🎧

 Listen now and join the conversation!

 Follow Echo Essentials for more insights on media, culture, and current events

#Journalism #MediaIndustry #LocalNews #InvestigativeJournalism #Newsrooms #EchoEssentials #DigitalMedia #Podcast]]>1579false57fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/last-words-b4-provincial-election-from-nipissing-riding-perspective-debate-review--64586044
It begins with a five-minute interview with Green Party candidate for Nipissing, bilingual nursing student Colton Chaput.

Stand up interviews at the North Bay Home and Garden Expo included East Ferris Mayor Pauline Rochefort, who is seeking the federal Liberal nomination to be the Nipissing-Timiskaming Riding candidate, as well as North Bay city councillors Sara Inch and Gary Gardiner. (See past Echo Essentials podcast interviews regarding the election, including PC's Vic Fedeli, NDP candidate Loren Mick and Libertarian Michelle Lashbrook.)]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64586044Wed, 26 Feb 2025 16:57:27 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThe Ontario Election scheduled Feb. 27 is the primary topic of today's Echo Essentials podcast with host Dave Dale discussing issues with multiple interview subjects and debate review participants, North Bay Coun. Mark King and Rod Bilz, active...
It begins with a five-minute interview with Green Party candidate for Nipissing, bilingual nursing student Colton Chaput.

Stand up interviews at the North Bay Home and Garden Expo included East Ferris Mayor Pauline Rochefort, who is seeking the federal Liberal nomination to be the Nipissing-Timiskaming Riding candidate, as well as North Bay city councillors Sara Inch and Gary Gardiner. (See past Echo Essentials podcast interviews regarding the election, including PC's Vic Fedeli, NDP candidate Loren Mick and Libertarian Michelle Lashbrook.)]]>4601false56fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ndp-libertarian-candidates-pitch-change-different-priorities-ahead-of-election--64474886
Loren Mick Brings Grassroots Perspective to Nipissing NDP Campaign Mick, currently serving his second term on Mattawa’s town council, emphasized his frontline experience as a healthcare worker and his commitment to tackling the region’s growing crises in housing, affordability, and healthcare. Born and raised in Mattawa, Mick’s local roots shape his understanding of the challenges facing people across the Nipissing district. In addition to his municipal work, he has spent the past 10 years working in the kitchen of Mattawa’s hospital, where he’s seen firsthand the effects of staff shortages and underfunded healthcare.


Lashbrook, who is no stranger to public advocacy, emphasized decentralization, individual freedom, and government accountability as core pillars of her campaign. Lashbrook began by criticizing the timing of the election, which she believes was strategically planned to suppress voter turnout. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64474886Thu, 20 Feb 2025 19:00:07 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThe Echo Essentials Podcast #55 features host Dave Dale interviewing the New Democrat and Libertarian candidates for Nipissing ahead of the Ontario Election taking place Feb. 27. Loren Mick Brings Grassroots Perspective to Nipissing NDP Campaign...
Loren Mick Brings Grassroots Perspective to Nipissing NDP Campaign Mick, currently serving his second term on Mattawa’s town council, emphasized his frontline experience as a healthcare worker and his commitment to tackling the region’s growing crises in housing, affordability, and healthcare. Born and raised in Mattawa, Mick’s local roots shape his understanding of the challenges facing people across the Nipissing district. In addition to his municipal work, he has spent the past 10 years working in the kitchen of Mattawa’s hospital, where he’s seen firsthand the effects of staff shortages and underfunded healthcare.


Lashbrook, who is no stranger to public advocacy, emphasized decentralization, individual freedom, and government accountability as core pillars of her campaign. Lashbrook began by criticizing the timing of the election, which she believes was strategically planned to suppress voter turnout. ]]>4445false55fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/fedeli-explains-trade-war-risks-highlights-health-care-and-housing-investments--64342775
The discussion also touched on a looming trade war with the United States, key economic concerns, and pressing local issues such as health care and long-term care expansion. Fedeli wasted no time justifying the decision to hold an election ahead of schedule. “We are at war,” he said, referring to what he called an “economic and trade war” with the United States. The decision to move the election up to February 27 was, in part, to ensure that the Ontario government’s term aligns with that of U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently imposed tariffs on Canadian products.


]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64342775Thu, 13 Feb 2025 19:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkCo-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale sat down with Vic Fedeli, the longtime Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Nipissing and former mayor of North Bay. With Ontario in the midst of a snap election, Fedeli defended his government’s record and...
The discussion also touched on a looming trade war with the United States, key economic concerns, and pressing local issues such as health care and long-term care expansion. Fedeli wasted no time justifying the decision to hold an election ahead of schedule. “We are at war,” he said, referring to what he called an “economic and trade war” with the United States. The decision to move the election up to February 27 was, in part, to ensure that the Ontario government’s term aligns with that of U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently imposed tariffs on Canadian products.


]]>2973false54fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/significant-ontario-election-issues-being-overshadowed-by-u-s-tariff-threats--64194098
Co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale talk about the known candidates (no name from the Liberals before this recording) and touch on the latest regarding the looming federal election.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64194098Thu, 06 Feb 2025 19:00:07 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThe "sprint" to the Ontario Provincial Election on Feb. 27 is underway and the Echo Essentials Podcast #53 features discussion about the rational for a snap vote and how things might go in the Nipissing Riding. Co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale talk...
Co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale talk about the known candidates (no name from the Liberals before this recording) and touch on the latest regarding the looming federal election.]]>1770false53fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/education-needs-massive-review-to-scale-back-school-board-inefficiencies-redundancy--64015404https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64015404Thu, 30 Jan 2025 19:00:07 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThe Near North School Board wants the province to fully review the inefficiencies and redundancies in the Ontario education system to free up funding for priority student needs. Trustee Bill Steer and Parker Robinson, president of the local secondary...3340false52fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/resident-points-out-flaws-in-city-plan-for-pumping-station-at-busy-intersection--63728612
“It was just flabbergasting when I learned they were planning to put the station right in front of my house,” Baldwin said during the interview. “The last I’d heard, the car wash site was the preferred location, but the city said they couldn’t finalize that deal, and the plans were shifted without my knowledge.”

The facility, designed to manage sanitary sewer flow, will include a 12-foot-diameter well and a significant surface footprint for electrical equipment. Baldwin explained how the project would disrupt the aesthetic of the area, stating, “The footprint of this thing is enormous—about 30 feet long with tall panels and a generator. Even with landscaping, it’s hard to imagine it won’t be an eyesore.”

Baldwin expressed frustration over the lack of communication from the city. While some notices were mailed, he claims not all relevant documents reached him. “I didn’t receive the final report outlining the location change,” he said. “By the time I found out, decisions had already been made. I felt left out of the process.”]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63728612Thu, 23 Jan 2025 19:00:06 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this week’s Echo Essentials Podcast, co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale sat down with Brian Baldwin, a retired North Bay resident, to discuss his opposition to the city’s plan to build a sanitary sewer pumping station at the corner of Premier Road...
“It was just flabbergasting when I learned they were planning to put the station right in front of my house,” Baldwin said during the interview. “The last I’d heard, the car wash site was the preferred location, but the city said they couldn’t finalize that deal, and the plans were shifted without my knowledge.”

The facility, designed to manage sanitary sewer flow, will include a 12-foot-diameter well and a significant surface footprint for electrical equipment. Baldwin explained how the project would disrupt the aesthetic of the area, stating, “The footprint of this thing is enormous—about 30 feet long with tall panels and a generator. Even with landscaping, it’s hard to imagine it won’t be an eyesore.”

Baldwin expressed frustration over the lack of communication from the city. While some notices were mailed, he claims not all relevant documents reached him. “I didn’t receive the final report outlining the location change,” he said. “By the time I found out, decisions had already been made. I felt left out of the process.”]]>2350false51fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/snowmobiling-saves-marriages-corporations-worse-than-private-land-owners-for-trails--63704431
Hosted by Scott Clark and Dave Dale, the episode delves into the vital role snowmobiling plays in Northern Ontario’s economy, the challenges faced by the industry, and the tireless efforts of volunteers who sustain this beloved activity.

Flindall emphasized the staggering economic impact of snowmobiling in Ontario, generating between $3 billion and $5 billion annually. Northern Ontario reaps significant benefits from this influx, particularly during the winter months when other economic activity is limited. From small-town gas stations to restaurants and repair shops, the ripple effect touches countless businesses. “This is a huge tribute to volunteerism,” Flindall remarked. Ontario boasts 180 snowmobile clubs,
 each managing hundreds of kilometers of trails.

Volunteers handle everything from landowner agreements to trail maintenance, ensuring the 33,000-kilometer network remains operational. “It’s remarkable what has been achieved by people giving their time freely,” he added.

Dale joked about snowmobiling has saved marriages because it gets at least one partner out of the house for extended periods to build trails and bridges, while couples can enjoy them on long rides together.


5:00 Vehicles parked on lakes issue raised in newsletter
13:04 Shawn Flindall, North Bay Snowmobile Club
17:00 Forecast not looking great for trails
19:00 Renewing land owner permits difficult
25:25 North Bay Toyota sponsor
29:00 $3 to 5 Billion impact provincially]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63704431Thu, 16 Jan 2025 19:00:07 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThe 50th episode of the Echo Essentials Podcast marked a full-circle moment as Shawn Flindall, communications director of the North Bay Snowmobile Club, returned as the guest, having been the very first interviewee when the show launched a year ago....
Hosted by Scott Clark and Dave Dale, the episode delves into the vital role snowmobiling plays in Northern Ontario’s economy, the challenges faced by the industry, and the tireless efforts of volunteers who sustain this beloved activity.

Flindall emphasized the staggering economic impact of snowmobiling in Ontario, generating between $3 billion and $5 billion annually. Northern Ontario reaps significant benefits from this influx, particularly during the winter months when other economic activity is limited. From small-town gas stations to restaurants and repair shops, the ripple effect touches countless businesses. “This is a huge tribute to volunteerism,” Flindall remarked. Ontario boasts 180 snowmobile clubs,
 each managing hundreds of kilometers of trails.

Volunteers handle everything from landowner agreements to trail maintenance, ensuring the 33,000-kilometer network remains operational. “It’s remarkable what has been achieved by people giving their time freely,” he added.

Dale joked about snowmobiling has saved marriages because it gets at least one partner out of the house for extended periods to build trails and bridges, while couples can enjoy them on long rides together.


5:00 Vehicles parked on lakes issue raised in newsletter
13:04 Shawn Flindall, North Bay Snowmobile Club
17:00 Forecast not looking great for trails
19:00 Renewing land owner permits difficult
25:25 North Bay Toyota sponsor
29:00 $3 to 5 Billion impact provincially]]>2493false50fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/rota-shares-who-he-has-in-mind-for-liberal-leadership--63627281
In the pre-interview banter between co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale, you'll hear a discussion about how and why you won't hear Rota's take on the international incident that led to him resigning as Speaker of the House in the fall of 2023. Rota had addressed the issue in the interview but later asked for it to be edited out. Clark agreed to the edit, on the promise that Rota would come back and do a more fulsome discussion on the topic, and Dale provided his perspective on how such things can be handled in the future.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63627281Thu, 09 Jan 2025 19:00:06 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThe Echo Essentials Podcast this week features long-time Nipissing-Timiskaming MP Anthony Rota, who is retiring from federal politics after 16 years in Ottawa. Topics range from who might make a good candidate to lead the Liberal Party in the future...
In the pre-interview banter between co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale, you'll hear a discussion about how and why you won't hear Rota's take on the international incident that led to him resigning as Speaker of the House in the fall of 2023. Rota had addressed the issue in the interview but later asked for it to be edited out. Clark agreed to the edit, on the promise that Rota would come back and do a more fulsome discussion on the topic, and Dale provided his perspective on how such things can be handled in the future.]]>3596false49fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/budget-chief-urges-constituents-to-contribute-ideas-views-early-in-council-process--63520823
Horsfield shared insights about the city’s ongoing budget process, her role as deputy mayor, and the challenges of her first term in office. Horsfield outlined the city’s approach to its 2025 budget, including a delayed timeline to allow thorough preparation. The process begins in January with the water and wastewater budgets and progresses to the operating and capital budgets in February and March.

She explained the importance of setting aside funds in advance to avoid sharp tax increases when significant projects, such as the Twin Pad Community Centre, move forward. Discussing the "Twin Pad" project, Horsfield emphasized the city’s long-term financial planning. Revenue from sources like the gas tax, casino funds, and the Municipal Accommodation Tax has been allocated toward this $63 million project to mitigate its impact on taxpayers. She acknowledged the complexity of balancing rising costs, collective bargaining pressures, and service partner budgets, which comprise nearly half the city’s overall expenses.

Horsfield also touched on other pressing matters, such as the potential city takeover of the local ski hill. She emphasized the need to weigh the ski hill’s community value against its financial feasibility and said negotiations were ongoing between the city and the conservation authority. Reflecting on her tenure, Horsfield highlighted the importance of improved communication with residents.

She launched a newsletter to provide updates and foster transparency, a move co-host Dale praised as a model for other city councilors. While she enjoys her role, Horsfield noted the steep learning curve and the challenge of making substantial progress within a single term. She suggested that a two-term commitment allows councilors to maximize their impact. When asked about her political ambitions, Horsfield expressed a strong interest in running for council again but remained non-committal about a mayoral bid.

For now, her focus is on continuing her work for the community and addressing key issues such as public safety, recreation, and transit. Horsfield believes that North Bay’s centennial celebrations in 2025 will rejuvenate community spirit. She expressed optimism about the year ahead, predicting a mix of challenges and opportunities with significant political, economic, and social events on the horizon.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63520823Thu, 02 Jan 2025 19:00:06 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn today's episode of the Echo Essentials Podcast, co-host Dave Dale conducted an in-depth interview with North Bay Deputy Mayor Maggie Horsfield, who is also the chairwoman of the General Government Committee and the city’s budget chief. Horsfield...
Horsfield shared insights about the city’s ongoing budget process, her role as deputy mayor, and the challenges of her first term in office. Horsfield outlined the city’s approach to its 2025 budget, including a delayed timeline to allow thorough preparation. The process begins in January with the water and wastewater budgets and progresses to the operating and capital budgets in February and March.

She explained the importance of setting aside funds in advance to avoid sharp tax increases when significant projects, such as the Twin Pad Community Centre, move forward. Discussing the "Twin Pad" project, Horsfield emphasized the city’s long-term financial planning. Revenue from sources like the gas tax, casino funds, and the Municipal Accommodation Tax has been allocated toward this $63 million project to mitigate its impact on taxpayers. She acknowledged the complexity of balancing rising costs, collective bargaining pressures, and service partner budgets, which comprise nearly half the city’s overall expenses.

Horsfield also touched on other pressing matters, such as the potential city takeover of the local ski hill. She emphasized the need to weigh the ski hill’s community value against its financial feasibility and said negotiations were ongoing between the city and the conservation authority. Reflecting on her tenure, Horsfield highlighted the importance of improved communication with residents.

She launched a newsletter to provide updates and foster transparency, a move co-host Dale praised as a model for other city councilors. While she enjoys her role, Horsfield noted the steep learning curve and the challenge of making substantial progress within a single term. She suggested that a two-term commitment allows councilors to maximize their impact. When asked about her political ambitions, Horsfield expressed a strong interest in running for council again but remained non-committal about a mayoral bid.

For now, her focus is on continuing her work for the community and addressing key issues such as public safety, recreation, and transit. Horsfield believes that North Bay’s centennial celebrations in 2025 will rejuvenate community spirit. She expressed optimism about the year ahead, predicting a mix of challenges and opportunities with significant political, economic, and social events on the horizon.]]>2384false48fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/boxing-day-show-reviews-hot-topics-and-who-might-not-run-for-north-bay-council-again--63401477
They discuss the attention being put on the Nipissing District Cassellhome Home for the Aged, a long-term care facility, and Castle Arms, a closely associated seniors living non-profit. We also talk about how much the District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board can do when it comes to filling in the gaps of provincial funding for community needs, such as what the Gathering Place soup kitchen does.

Municipal, provincial and federal political drama is also discussed, including the potential for many open chairs on North Bay City Council in 2026.

The Echo Newsletter, recently re-designed with links to stories about podcasts, and its new poll feature, are highlighted.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63401477Thu, 26 Dec 2024 19:00:07 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThe Echo Essentials Podcast #47 closes out 2024 with a review of recent controversial interviews and what's coming up in 2025, including a mixed-bag of political drama and the challenges of local media conducting investigative journalism in today's...
They discuss the attention being put on the Nipissing District Cassellhome Home for the Aged, a long-term care facility, and Castle Arms, a closely associated seniors living non-profit. We also talk about how much the District of Nipissing Social Services Administration Board can do when it comes to filling in the gaps of provincial funding for community needs, such as what the Gathering Place soup kitchen does.

Municipal, provincial and federal political drama is also discussed, including the potential for many open chairs on North Bay City Council in 2026.

The Echo Newsletter, recently re-designed with links to stories about podcasts, and its new poll feature, are highlighted.]]>3008false47fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/justine-mallah-enjoys-municipal-politics-because-she-gets-to-help-make-change-happen--63376003
Mallah shares insights about her experiences, challenges, and achievements, offering a candid look at her role on city council. Mallah, who moved to the city in 2018, vaulted into the municipal spotlight in 2022 by securing the third-highest vote total.

“It was a steep learning curve. I very much appreciate having nine other council members and the mayor to learn from,” she said. Mallah emphasized the value of collaboration, explaining that differing perspectives among council members have helped her craft more effective policies. “If we just had my own perspective, I’d miss various interests or components,” she added.

Read the full story: https://www.northbayecho.ca/article/small-steps-make-a-difference/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63376003Thu, 19 Dec 2024 19:00:07 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkNorth Bay Councilor Justine Mallah, Chairwoman of the Community Services Committee, joined co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale for this week’s Echo Essentials podcast to reflect on her first two years in office. Mallah shares insights about her...
Mallah shares insights about her experiences, challenges, and achievements, offering a candid look at her role on city council. Mallah, who moved to the city in 2018, vaulted into the municipal spotlight in 2022 by securing the third-highest vote total.

“It was a steep learning curve. I very much appreciate having nine other council members and the mayor to learn from,” she said. Mallah emphasized the value of collaboration, explaining that differing perspectives among council members have helped her craft more effective policies. “If we just had my own perspective, I’d miss various interests or components,” she added.

Read the full story: https://www.northbayecho.ca/article/small-steps-make-a-difference/]]>2941false46fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/coun-chris-mayne-talks-about-being-voted-off-castle-arms-board-casselholme-update--63226876
Hosted by Dave Dale and guest co-host Stu Campaigne, the show provided a platform for an in-depth discussion on these critical issues, helping demystify a complex but vital topic for North Bay residents. Mayne, a longstanding member of the Cassellholme board and former chair of the Castle Arms board, reflected on his removal from the latter.

He described his tenure as one marked by significant contributions and a commitment to community-focused decision-making. Mayne highlighted the progress on the $121 million redevelopment of Cassellholme, a long-term care facility. Though the project is behind schedule by over a year, he expressed optimism about the eventual completion expected to take several more years. See its website for the latest information being shared about the redevelopment.

Read a full article based on the transcript of this podcast at the North Bay Echo website. It was generated by ChatGPT in a news-style complete with quotes. Send feedback and concerns about fact to editor@northbayecho.ca. https://www.northbayecho.ca/article/essentials-45-coun-chris-mayne-talks-about-being-voted-off-castle-arms-board-casselholme-update/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63226876Thu, 12 Dec 2024 19:00:07 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIn this week's Echo Essentials podcast, North Bay Councilor Chris Mayne sheds light on the intricate dynamics surrounding the Cassellholme refurbishment project and the controversial governance changes at Castle Arms. Hosted by Dave Dale and guest...
Hosted by Dave Dale and guest co-host Stu Campaigne, the show provided a platform for an in-depth discussion on these critical issues, helping demystify a complex but vital topic for North Bay residents. Mayne, a longstanding member of the Cassellholme board and former chair of the Castle Arms board, reflected on his removal from the latter.

He described his tenure as one marked by significant contributions and a commitment to community-focused decision-making. Mayne highlighted the progress on the $121 million redevelopment of Cassellholme, a long-term care facility. Though the project is behind schedule by over a year, he expressed optimism about the eventual completion expected to take several more years. See its website for the latest information being shared about the redevelopment.

Read a full article based on the transcript of this podcast at the North Bay Echo website. It was generated by ChatGPT in a news-style complete with quotes. Send feedback and concerns about fact to editor@northbayecho.ca. https://www.northbayecho.ca/article/essentials-45-coun-chris-mayne-talks-about-being-voted-off-castle-arms-board-casselholme-update/]]>3357false45fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/navigating-challenges-the-gathering-place-adapts-to-financial-strains--63167262
Hosted by Dave Dale with guest co-host Dave Mendicino, the conversation features Peter Gregory, chairman of the Gathering Place board, and Alicia Smith, operations manager.

Together, they discuss the impact of funding challenges, the organization’s restructuring efforts, and its future.

For a longer written account of the discussion, see the story on the NorthBayEcho.ca website at: https://www.northbayecho.ca/article/navigating-challenges-the-gathering-place-adapts-to-financial-strains/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63167262Thu, 05 Dec 2024 19:00:08 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkToday's Echo Essentials Podcast highlights the trials faced by the North Bay Gathering Place, a vital soup kitchen grappling with financial difficulties. Hosted by Dave Dale with guest co-host Dave Mendicino, the conversation features Peter Gregory,...
Hosted by Dave Dale with guest co-host Dave Mendicino, the conversation features Peter Gregory, chairman of the Gathering Place board, and Alicia Smith, operations manager.

Together, they discuss the impact of funding challenges, the organization’s restructuring efforts, and its future.

For a longer written account of the discussion, see the story on the NorthBayEcho.ca website at: https://www.northbayecho.ca/article/navigating-challenges-the-gathering-place-adapts-to-financial-strains/]]>3272false44fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/city-betting-casino-revenue-on-kids-developer-official-explains-project-conflict--63033680
Gardiner gives out three stars for the arena project decision, one to a primary proponent this term, one to a councilor for deciding in the end to support it and one to someone who didn't but offered constructive criticism that was useful to consider.

Gardiner also explains his personal business development involving two triplex condo units at McIntyre St. West and Timmins Street - right beside Sweetman's Garden, the centre of recent controversy after city workers oversaw the clear-cutting of trees and shrubs on the adjacent former rail way corridor. Co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale, in the pre-interview banter, debate the benefits of the casino in the community and talk about the Sweetman's Garden issue.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63033680Thu, 28 Nov 2024 19:00:06 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkNorth Bay City Councilor Gary Gardiner returns to the Echo Essentials studio to talk about why council decided to kick $200,000 of casino profits into the Elmwood community centre project as well as discussing further the $63-million twin pad facility...
Gardiner gives out three stars for the arena project decision, one to a primary proponent this term, one to a councilor for deciding in the end to support it and one to someone who didn't but offered constructive criticism that was useful to consider.

Gardiner also explains his personal business development involving two triplex condo units at McIntyre St. West and Timmins Street - right beside Sweetman's Garden, the centre of recent controversy after city workers oversaw the clear-cutting of trees and shrubs on the adjacent former rail way corridor. Co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale, in the pre-interview banter, debate the benefits of the casino in the community and talk about the Sweetman's Garden issue.]]>4381false43fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/clumsy-city-clearing-of-trees-impacts-iconic-garden-promoted-as-tourist-attraction--62761010
They joined co-host Dave Dale and guest co-host Stu Campaigne, in the Echo Essentials podcast studio to discuss the impact of a recent mis-planned city works initiative that clear-cut a canopy of trees at the end of McIntyre St. West and along the former rail bed up to Timmins Street. Vandermeer noted the last public fight to save Sweetman's Garden from development was about 15 years ago. Just this year, she said Tourism North Bay promoted the garden as one of the Top 10 jewels to visit.

Last week, former councilor Johanne Brousseau was the featured guest in the Essentials podcast and she suggested that the Garden needs to be designated officially in the parks bylaw. She also said the procedural bylaw should perhaps change so a rezoning amendment couldn't go from committee to council for passing on the same night, allowing more time for people to respond to the news. Vandermeer and Lott said they would have helped ensure the value of the trees was recognized in the plan to selectively remove them, or at least point out there was no council direction to do what was done.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62761010Thu, 21 Nov 2024 19:00:07 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkLiz Lott and Liza Vandermeer, along with dozens of other Friends of Sweetman's Gardens and thousands of visitors, didn't need another battle on their plate - especially one requiring them to reprove the value of a seven-decade community jewel in North...
They joined co-host Dave Dale and guest co-host Stu Campaigne, in the Echo Essentials podcast studio to discuss the impact of a recent mis-planned city works initiative that clear-cut a canopy of trees at the end of McIntyre St. West and along the former rail bed up to Timmins Street. Vandermeer noted the last public fight to save Sweetman's Garden from development was about 15 years ago. Just this year, she said Tourism North Bay promoted the garden as one of the Top 10 jewels to visit.

Last week, former councilor Johanne Brousseau was the featured guest in the Essentials podcast and she suggested that the Garden needs to be designated officially in the parks bylaw. She also said the procedural bylaw should perhaps change so a rezoning amendment couldn't go from committee to council for passing on the same night, allowing more time for people to respond to the news. Vandermeer and Lott said they would have helped ensure the value of the trees was recognized in the plan to selectively remove them, or at least point out there was no council direction to do what was done.]]>3201false42fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/fly-on-wall-at-council-dissects-issue-canadian-military-benefits-from-trump-win--62693922
Johanne did some homework on the Sweetman's Garden file and came up with two ideas to potentially protect the long-time unofficial community asset (recently impacted by city clearing of brush and trees on an adjacent road allowance.)

In the preamble banter, Scott and Dave talk about the potential impact to Northern Ontario after the Republicans and Donald Trump took over America.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62693922Thu, 14 Nov 2024 19:00:06 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThe Echo Essentials podcast features former councilor and 2022 mayoral candidate Johanne Brousseau talking with co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale. Johanne did some homework on the Sweetman's Garden file and came up with two ideas to potentially...
Johanne did some homework on the Sweetman's Garden file and came up with two ideas to potentially protect the long-time unofficial community asset (recently impacted by city clearing of brush and trees on an adjacent road allowance.)

In the preamble banter, Scott and Dave talk about the potential impact to Northern Ontario after the Republicans and Donald Trump took over America.]]>3511false41fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ww-ii-veteran-s-advice-for-remembrance-day-vote-in-every-election--62640836
The patriarch of a four-generation farming family in Widdifield Township also threatens to go back before city council to properly develop parkland beaches at Four Mile Lake and Otter Lake. He said the land was donated by a veteran and is dedicated to young soldiers from the area who were lost in the war.

Co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale start the show talking about a "minor clarification" and more about the municipal minutes concerns, with a viewer suggesting AI will solve the problem. There's also some chatter about Dave losing the Twigg's scone bet about which areas of the city's website are visited most.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62640836Thu, 07 Nov 2024 19:00:03 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkBill Parfitt, 99, shares his Second World War "adventure" as an RCAF tail gunner flying bombing runs over Germany in this 40th episode of the Echo Essentials Podcast. The patriarch of a four-generation farming family in Widdifield Township also...
The patriarch of a four-generation farming family in Widdifield Township also threatens to go back before city council to properly develop parkland beaches at Four Mile Lake and Otter Lake. He said the land was donated by a veteran and is dedicated to young soldiers from the area who were lost in the war.

Co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale start the show talking about a "minor clarification" and more about the municipal minutes concerns, with a viewer suggesting AI will solve the problem. There's also some chatter about Dave losing the Twigg's scone bet about which areas of the city's website are visited most.]]>3119true40fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/town-hall-changes-evolved-positions-and-how-to-be-a-small-town-politician-on-tap--62506855
Co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale start the episode talking about garbage pick up schedules, the city's website and inability to book arenas and fields online.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62506855Thu, 31 Oct 2024 18:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkNorth Bay Councilor Gary Gardiner joins the Echo Essentials podcast to discuss the latest Town Hall controversy, what changed his mind about the twin pad arena project and what he thinks about running for mayor again. He also described his strategy to...
Co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale start the episode talking about garbage pick up schedules, the city's website and inability to book arenas and fields online.]]>3446false39fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/value-of-integrity-commissioners-code-of-conduct-investigations-worthy-of-debate--62447104
Dave and Scott, however, point out that partly due to the complaints and investigation, whether right or wrong, probably had something to do with the board canceling a contract and getting several hundred thousand back into city coffers. Also discussed was the annoying traffic concerns about Lakeshore Drive with the subject of turning lanes raising its head again.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62447104Thu, 24 Oct 2024 18:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThe group representing Northern Ontario municipalities wants the province to re-examine the Integrity Commission and code-of-conduct system and make it more consistent and worth the cost. Former North Bay councilor Dave Mendicino and Echo Essentials...
Dave and Scott, however, point out that partly due to the complaints and investigation, whether right or wrong, probably had something to do with the board canceling a contract and getting several hundred thousand back into city coffers. Also discussed was the annoying traffic concerns about Lakeshore Drive with the subject of turning lanes raising its head again.]]>3598false38fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/democracy-is-supposed-to-be-messy-farming-family-wants-fair-treatment--62320195

Co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale, meanwhile, end up in a mini-debate in front of Matt about how open the city and council should be regarding public access, both at City Hall and when participating in public meetings such as Town Halls. And in the opening banter, Scott and Dave debate how much info is really necessary in the minutes of city council meetings.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62320195Thu, 17 Oct 2024 18:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkMatt Parfitt, of the Parfitt Farm, visits the Echo Essentials Podcast studio to highlight city restrictions on rural and agricultural land use that he feels are not science-based and unfair to rural property owners several kilometres away from Trout...

Co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale, meanwhile, end up in a mini-debate in front of Matt about how open the city and council should be regarding public access, both at City Hall and when participating in public meetings such as Town Halls. And in the opening banter, Scott and Dave debate how much info is really necessary in the minutes of city council meetings.
]]>2984false37fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/battalion-president-adam-dennis-shares-his-hockey-journey-scott-takes-dave-to-task--62275514
ln the pre-interview banter, co-host and Echo owner Scott Clark takes co-host Dave Dale to task for getting something wrong in a previous podcast about Mayor Peter Chirico. They also discuss the recent hike to bus far rates and whether the city is doing a "cash grab" as more people (especially international students) use the service.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62275514Thu, 10 Oct 2024 18:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkAdam Dennis, the Battalion's new president and director of hockey operations, visits the Echo Essentials Podcast studio and talks about his hockey journey as a Memorial Cup winner, NHL-drafted goalie and European league pro ... and how that experience...
ln the pre-interview banter, co-host and Echo owner Scott Clark takes co-host Dave Dale to task for getting something wrong in a previous podcast about Mayor Peter Chirico. They also discuss the recent hike to bus far rates and whether the city is doing a "cash grab" as more people (especially international students) use the service.]]>3667false36fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/town-halls-disappoint-ward-system-debate-needed-local-artists-honour-broken-forests--62168224
CORRECTION NOTE: In the video, Dave Dale said Coun. Mark King was the only elected official residing outside the city limits (he lives in East Ferris, although he has property in North Bay), however, Coun. Gary Gardiner has a similar situation living in the Municipality of Callander (and owns property in North Bay). Both previously resided in North Bay.

The featured guest is Dermot Wilson, who manages a regional group that curates opportunities for artistic expression, including participation in the Broken Forests effort to pay attention to the harvesting of wood and its impact around the world. Wilson, along with Nipissing First Nation's Don Chretien, recently returned from Poland and were in British Colombia and South America earlier this year. "This is part of who we are ... so let's get in there and see it," Wilson said, adding that just the effort to go out into the areas being harvested makes an impact on what happens.

The Nipissing Regional Curatorial Collective, which also goes by NOVAH (Northern Ontario Visual Artists Hive), has established public galleries at several businesses, including 176 Lakeshore and 222 McIntyre St. East.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62168224Thu, 03 Oct 2024 18:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkTown Hall rules, ward system and political motivations are discussed by co-hosts Dave Dale and Scott Clark in this episode of the Echo Essentials Podcast. Media coverage of a recent City of North Bay outreach event sparks the discussion, that also...
CORRECTION NOTE: In the video, Dave Dale said Coun. Mark King was the only elected official residing outside the city limits (he lives in East Ferris, although he has property in North Bay), however, Coun. Gary Gardiner has a similar situation living in the Municipality of Callander (and owns property in North Bay). Both previously resided in North Bay.

The featured guest is Dermot Wilson, who manages a regional group that curates opportunities for artistic expression, including participation in the Broken Forests effort to pay attention to the harvesting of wood and its impact around the world. Wilson, along with Nipissing First Nation's Don Chretien, recently returned from Poland and were in British Colombia and South America earlier this year. "This is part of who we are ... so let's get in there and see it," Wilson said, adding that just the effort to go out into the areas being harvested makes an impact on what happens.

The Nipissing Regional Curatorial Collective, which also goes by NOVAH (Northern Ontario Visual Artists Hive), has established public galleries at several businesses, including 176 Lakeshore and 222 McIntyre St. East.]]>2780false35fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/kennedy-fall-fellowship-continues-62-year-tradition-of-community-networking--62082931
Co-host Scott Clark, who has attended several of the gatherings, references the positive benefits of the casual interactions between some of the most active movers and shakers in the city.

Co-host Dave Dale reads several excerpts from WKP Kennedy's book 'North Bay' that provides a chronological history of the community, with the manuscript delivered to the printer just days before his fatal heart attack while returning from the French River in the fall of 1961.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62082931Thu, 26 Sep 2024 18:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkTony Limina and Peter Rooney join the Echo Essentials podcast to talk about the Kennedy Fall Fellowship, a 62-year tradition where North Bay business owners and community leaders gather for a social event on the French River. Co-host Scott Clark, who...
Co-host Scott Clark, who has attended several of the gatherings, references the positive benefits of the casual interactions between some of the most active movers and shakers in the city.

Co-host Dave Dale reads several excerpts from WKP Kennedy's book 'North Bay' that provides a chronological history of the community, with the manuscript delivered to the printer just days before his fatal heart attack while returning from the French River in the fall of 1961.]]>2971false34fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tough-lessons-in-podcasting-first-anniversary-of-echo-network-discussed-dissected--61999004
Since then we've produced more than 200 episodes of a variety of podcasts and 100 Echo Essentials newsletters reaching tens of thousands of listeners and viewers, beginning with the To North Bay With Love podcast hosted by Lisa Boivin.

This week, founder Scott Clark and consulting partners Erin Trafford and Dave Trafford, of Story Studio Network, and Echo content director Dave Dale go over the highs and lows of an ever-evolving industry. We talk about how some of the assumptions we made were wrong, what pivots were necessary, the reality of the business and the big opportunities to come.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61999004Thu, 19 Sep 2024 18:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIt's been a year since the Echo Community Podcasting Network launched in North Bay with the goal of amplifying community story-tellers, creating shows and complementing existing media with the credo: "Local voices should be heard." Since then we've...
Since then we've produced more than 200 episodes of a variety of podcasts and 100 Echo Essentials newsletters reaching tens of thousands of listeners and viewers, beginning with the To North Bay With Love podcast hosted by Lisa Boivin.

This week, founder Scott Clark and consulting partners Erin Trafford and Dave Trafford, of Story Studio Network, and Echo content director Dave Dale go over the highs and lows of an ever-evolving industry. We talk about how some of the assumptions we made were wrong, what pivots were necessary, the reality of the business and the big opportunities to come.]]>2739false30fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/councilor-vrebosch-frustrated-by-info-roadblocks-twin-pad-project-spans-most-of-her-career--61328579Coun. Vrebosch first took a seat in the council chamber in 2008 after placing 11th in the previous municipal election, but then filled a vacant seat mid-term. It was when Maureen Boldt, a paralegal, was removed from council after missing too many meetings while serving house arrest for the unauthorized practice of laws.

As one example, Vrebosch said council's approval of subsidies for the Laurentian Ski Hill, using the city's reserves last year and again this year, came without enough due diligence of the financial operations. She says her requests for information, and attempts to have the matter discussed as part of this year's budget deliberations, have been disregarded.

Vrebosch finished seventh in the 2022 election after serving two terms as deputy mayor and another as chairwoman of engineering and works. She ran under the Liberal banner in the 2022 provincial election, placing third.

0:00
1:00 Scott gives up on city hall windows issue
3:00 Change in media capacity discussed
12:15 Sponsor ad for Voyageur Aviation
12:45 Tanya joins the podcast
22:24 Dave chimes in
23:07 Sponsor ad for Laframboise Realty
24:00 Laurentian Ski Hill question raised
33:00 Castle Arms issue raised
34:00 Is Vrebosch "ostracized"?
37:00 Needle collection issue
40:00 Political future
42:40 Twin pad project
45:45 Live read ad for Casey's
46.36 Dave changes tune on arena]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61328579Thu, 12 Sep 2024 18:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkJoining the Echo Essentials Podcast today is former North Bay deputy mayor and 16-year councilor Tanya Vrebosch, who expressed frustration about how the first half of this term is going. Coun. Vrebosch first took a seat in the council chamber in 2008...Coun. Vrebosch first took a seat in the council chamber in 2008 after placing 11th in the previous municipal election, but then filled a vacant seat mid-term. It was when Maureen Boldt, a paralegal, was removed from council after missing too many meetings while serving house arrest for the unauthorized practice of laws.

As one example, Vrebosch said council's approval of subsidies for the Laurentian Ski Hill, using the city's reserves last year and again this year, came without enough due diligence of the financial operations. She says her requests for information, and attempts to have the matter discussed as part of this year's budget deliberations, have been disregarded.

Vrebosch finished seventh in the 2022 election after serving two terms as deputy mayor and another as chairwoman of engineering and works. She ran under the Liberal banner in the 2022 provincial election, placing third.

0:00
1:00 Scott gives up on city hall windows issue
3:00 Change in media capacity discussed
12:15 Sponsor ad for Voyageur Aviation
12:45 Tanya joins the podcast
22:24 Dave chimes in
23:07 Sponsor ad for Laframboise Realty
24:00 Laurentian Ski Hill question raised
33:00 Castle Arms issue raised
34:00 Is Vrebosch "ostracized"?
37:00 Needle collection issue
40:00 Political future
42:40 Twin pad project
45:45 Live read ad for Casey's
46.36 Dave changes tune on arena]]>2948false32fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/minor-baseball-finding-its-stride-once-more-with-panther-travel-local-club-system--61265758
McLean, with his boy's 9U team fresh off a provincial championship tournament experience in Sault Ste. Marie on Labour Day weekend, also shares how he and other volunteers are also bringing new energy into 'Hockey for Beginners,' including this weekend's involvement with the OHL North Bay Battalion's preseason fan frenzy activities.

During the pre-interview banter, co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale remember their very-limited sports experience as children and their involvement as parents.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61265758Thu, 05 Sep 2024 18:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkPaul McLean drops by the Echo Essential Podcast studio to talk about the resurgence of minor baseball in North Bay. The owner of Source for Sports describes how the newest iteration of the diamond sport offers a Panther 'travel' team system with a...
McLean, with his boy's 9U team fresh off a provincial championship tournament experience in Sault Ste. Marie on Labour Day weekend, also shares how he and other volunteers are also bringing new energy into 'Hockey for Beginners,' including this weekend's involvement with the OHL North Bay Battalion's preseason fan frenzy activities.

During the pre-interview banter, co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale remember their very-limited sports experience as children and their involvement as parents.]]>2996false31fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/international-student-1-year-in-canada-talks-rule-changes-racism-poopgate-exploitation--61198383
Uphar sheds light on the intense pressure international students are under to achieve not only their educational pursuits but also qualify for work permits that they hope will lead to permanent residency. He said they have to navigate through many challenges, including harsh economic realities and evolving rules set by the federal government. That is why recent protests erupted, Uphar said, as tens of thousands face deportations because certain work experiences no longer count toward their scorecard.

Uphar also talks about online racism, including this summer's "poopgate" that led to virtual battlegrounds between different races. He also describes the exploitation some students face when financial issues force them to work 'under the table' for unscrupulous Canadians of East Indian descent.

In the banter before the interview, Scott and Dave talk about North Bay's Community Survey, the Bay Block Party and BayToday's Aug. 9 article by Stu Campaign that looks into the massive revenue Canadore College gains from international students.

See the article here: https://www.baytoday.ca/local-news/canadore-to-repeat-record-167m-in-international-student-fees-9328179

See the Small Town Times interview with Uphar last year: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSmi0hX7_Ok&t=52s]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61198383Thu, 29 Aug 2024 18:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkUphar, this week's Echo Essentials guest, is an international student from Punjab, India who is entering his second year as a Nipissing University marketing student while working part-time at Clark Communications, which owns the North Bay Echo...
Uphar sheds light on the intense pressure international students are under to achieve not only their educational pursuits but also qualify for work permits that they hope will lead to permanent residency. He said they have to navigate through many challenges, including harsh economic realities and evolving rules set by the federal government. That is why recent protests erupted, Uphar said, as tens of thousands face deportations because certain work experiences no longer count toward their scorecard.

Uphar also talks about online racism, including this summer's "poopgate" that led to virtual battlegrounds between different races. He also describes the exploitation some students face when financial issues force them to work 'under the table' for unscrupulous Canadians of East Indian descent.

In the banter before the interview, Scott and Dave talk about North Bay's Community Survey, the Bay Block Party and BayToday's Aug. 9 article by Stu Campaign that looks into the massive revenue Canadore College gains from international students.

See the article here: https://www.baytoday.ca/local-news/canadore-to-repeat-record-167m-in-international-student-fees-9328179

See the Small Town Times interview with Uphar last year: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSmi0hX7_Ok&t=52s]]>3113false30fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/former-nipissing-fn-chief-talks-about-sovereign-wealth-treaty-annuity-payments--61028380
One of the primary topics covered was how the Robinson Huron Treaty Annuity lawsuit and subsequent court rulings and settlement that worked to divide many of the 21 communities involved. Scott describes how the process unfolded, explains 1850 Treaty history, the split between the community as a whole and individuals, and how he advocated for a larger portion to go to the future of the community.

Scott said it was a factor in him losing the election, especially with cheques not going out until after the election, but says new Chief Cathy Bellefeuille was a good choice to replace him. In the pre-interview banter between co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale, it's noted that at least one viewer is starting to like Dave more now than when he was writing salty columns for BayToday and The Nugget.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61028380Thu, 22 Aug 2024 18:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkScott McLeod Shabogesic visits the Echo Essentials Podcast studio to talk about his nine-year tenure as chief of Nipissing First Nation, his future and specific challenges his community has overcome and continues to face. One of the primary topics...
One of the primary topics covered was how the Robinson Huron Treaty Annuity lawsuit and subsequent court rulings and settlement that worked to divide many of the 21 communities involved. Scott describes how the process unfolded, explains 1850 Treaty history, the split between the community as a whole and individuals, and how he advocated for a larger portion to go to the future of the community.

Scott said it was a factor in him losing the election, especially with cheques not going out until after the election, but says new Chief Cathy Bellefeuille was a good choice to replace him. In the pre-interview banter between co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale, it's noted that at least one viewer is starting to like Dave more now than when he was writing salty columns for BayToday and The Nugget.
]]>2586false29fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/redpath-vp-excited-about-mining-future-scott-dave-navel-gaze-about-city-events--60973424
Their featured guest, meanwhile, is Redpath Mining Group's senior vice-president Dave Hansman, who shares the history of the company and its founder, Jim Redpath, including the principles that continue to guide the company. Redpath is one of North Bay's largest private sector employers with 290 people living here and almost 10,000 others working for its various corporations globally.

0:00 2:52 Block Party, Summer Concerts
14:00 Scott is looking 'lobsterish'
17:40 Voyager Aviation Sponsor Message
18:40 Redpath's Sr. VP Dave Hansman
22:06 Community Building here and abroad
27:15 Jim Redpath's Support of Arts
31:10 Principles of Sustainability - ESG
34: 00 Roy Slack, Alex Speirs
37:00 Mining is not 'Dark, Dirty and Dangerous' anymore
43:20 Laframboise Realty Sponsor Message
48:15 Coolest place traveling for work?
51:40 Mining is here to stay
52:44 The Jarvis Clark Connection]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60973424Thu, 15 Aug 2024 18:00:03 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkEcho Essentials Podcast co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale discuss the history of North Bay's past and current community events. They cover the successful recipes and challenges they face, while referencing the Aug. 24 Block Party, on-going Summer...
Their featured guest, meanwhile, is Redpath Mining Group's senior vice-president Dave Hansman, who shares the history of the company and its founder, Jim Redpath, including the principles that continue to guide the company. Redpath is one of North Bay's largest private sector employers with 290 people living here and almost 10,000 others working for its various corporations globally.

0:00 2:52 Block Party, Summer Concerts
14:00 Scott is looking 'lobsterish'
17:40 Voyager Aviation Sponsor Message
18:40 Redpath's Sr. VP Dave Hansman
22:06 Community Building here and abroad
27:15 Jim Redpath's Support of Arts
31:10 Principles of Sustainability - ESG
34: 00 Roy Slack, Alex Speirs
37:00 Mining is not 'Dark, Dirty and Dangerous' anymore
43:20 Laframboise Realty Sponsor Message
48:15 Coolest place traveling for work?
51:40 Mining is here to stay
52:44 The Jarvis Clark Connection]]>3298false28fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/why-is-coun-jamie-lowery-so-disliked-and-how-did-dave-step-into-facebook-goo--60889263
Scott asks Dave about him stepping into a bit of Facebook "goo" while offering criticism about how a media release was republished by The Nugget as "submitted" without further attribution, unlike the credible job by BayToday staff, while also suggesting a news issue deserved more treatment by both. As for Coun. Lowery, Scott wants to know why so many people don't like dealing with him and Dave notes that his work as the chief executive officer of Casselholme Home for the Aged burned some bridges at the city. Meanwhile, Lowery said he considers himself an independent serving constituents and he's not inclined to play the game of voting for a councillor's motion to leverage a vote back in return.

TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 Gateway Home Hardware podcast discussion
2:26 Dave eats with strangers at Terry’s Place
3:35 East End Variety, Demarcos, Billy Booth Store
5:41 Himalayan Cafe experience
6:23 Dave gets humbled on Facebook, but … 
15:58 What is with Coun. Jamie Lowery?
23:26 Sponsor ad: Twiggs Coffee Roasters
24:26 Coun. Jamie Lowery is in the studio …
24:46 Communities in Bloom tour
28:28 Stuck in Peanut Gallery – 9 to 2 vote T-shirts
30:34 Twin pad arena example
32:46 Long-term Finance 
34:12 Attendance record
39:24 Don’t you know how to get things done?
41:05 How did George Maroosis manage conflict?
45:09 Appeared “arm in arm” at beginning
48:12 Chasing shiny objects
51:35 KPMG: “Opportunity for ‘business planning’...”
55:32 “When I was commissioner …”
59:14 Sponsor: Lafromboise Team
1:00:11 “Thinner pigeons…”
1:08:16 “No place to live…”
1:14:27 “What is the net benefit of Battalion?”
1:20:06 Report North Bay reader council surveys]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60889263Thu, 08 Aug 2024 18:00:04 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThis week's Echo Essentials podcast is half banter between co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale before bringing seemingly-ostracized Coun. Jamie Lowery to discuss the progress and lack there of half-way into the four-year term. Scott asks Dave about...
Scott asks Dave about him stepping into a bit of Facebook "goo" while offering criticism about how a media release was republished by The Nugget as "submitted" without further attribution, unlike the credible job by BayToday staff, while also suggesting a news issue deserved more treatment by both. As for Coun. Lowery, Scott wants to know why so many people don't like dealing with him and Dave notes that his work as the chief executive officer of Casselholme Home for the Aged burned some bridges at the city. Meanwhile, Lowery said he considers himself an independent serving constituents and he's not inclined to play the game of voting for a councillor's motion to leverage a vote back in return.

TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 Gateway Home Hardware podcast discussion
2:26 Dave eats with strangers at Terry’s Place
3:35 East End Variety, Demarcos, Billy Booth Store
5:41 Himalayan Cafe experience
6:23 Dave gets humbled on Facebook, but … 
15:58 What is with Coun. Jamie Lowery?
23:26 Sponsor ad: Twiggs Coffee Roasters
24:26 Coun. Jamie Lowery is in the studio …
24:46 Communities in Bloom tour
28:28 Stuck in Peanut Gallery – 9 to 2 vote T-shirts
30:34 Twin pad arena example
32:46 Long-term Finance 
34:12 Attendance record
39:24 Don’t you know how to get things done?
41:05 How did George Maroosis manage conflict?
45:09 Appeared “arm in arm” at beginning
48:12 Chasing shiny objects
51:35 KPMG: “Opportunity for ‘business planning’...”
55:32 “When I was commissioner …”
59:14 Sponsor: Lafromboise Team
1:00:11 “Thinner pigeons…”
1:08:16 “No place to live…”
1:14:27 “What is the net benefit of Battalion?”
1:20:06 Report North Bay reader council surveys]]>5076false25fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/landlords-get-a-bad-rap-without-low-priced-rentals-there-would-be-more-homeless--60817770
He was joined by Tricia Marshall, president of the NNLA, who said the long time-frame and cost of removing tenants isn't easy or cheap under the current system.

Koziol said it's a complicated matter, noting that the same people just move a little ways down the road or find another tenant willing to let them do business there. And he said raising rents to avoid marginalized people isn't the answer because it would merely leave more people on the street. It was a wide-ranging interview that provided more insight from another viewpoint.

Related news stories and opinions: https://www.baytoday.ca/local-news/zufelt-calls-out-owner-of-villa-apartments-9233638
https://www.baytoday.ca/local-news/dnssab-recognizes-no-perfect-location-for-247-hub-9272517

https://www.baytoday.ca/letters-to-the-editor/letter-social-service-agencies-council-police-perpetuate-downtown-problem-9250854

Timestamps:
0:00 Passion for the marginalized
4:38 DNSSAB Consultant didn’t consult
15:27 Voyageur Aviation advertisement
16:34 Near North Landlord Assoc. guests
19:15 Dysfunctional system
22:04 “I could never be a landlord”
26:16 “Not … profiteering scum sucking landlords”
31:56 “It doesn't work that way”
36:23 Human Rights Code
41:55 ‘Why don’t you jack up your rates?”
49:22 ‘NIMBY-ism’
51:24 ‘Nowhere to go’
54:58 ‘Biggest thing that has to happen’
57:18 ‘211 system’
1:01:20 Not like the police didn't know
1:06:45 Need for psychiatric care capacity
1:13:29 Podcast provides long-form platform]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60817770Thu, 01 Aug 2024 18:00:04 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThe owner of a vilified motel in downtown North Bay and the president of the Near North Landlords Association visit the Echo Essentials studio to share their perspective on handling 'trouble' tenants. Anthony Koziol, owner of the Villa in the...
He was joined by Tricia Marshall, president of the NNLA, who said the long time-frame and cost of removing tenants isn't easy or cheap under the current system.

Koziol said it's a complicated matter, noting that the same people just move a little ways down the road or find another tenant willing to let them do business there. And he said raising rents to avoid marginalized people isn't the answer because it would merely leave more people on the street. It was a wide-ranging interview that provided more insight from another viewpoint.

Related news stories and opinions: https://www.baytoday.ca/local-news/zufelt-calls-out-owner-of-villa-apartments-9233638
https://www.baytoday.ca/local-news/dnssab-recognizes-no-perfect-location-for-247-hub-9272517

https://www.baytoday.ca/letters-to-the-editor/letter-social-service-agencies-council-police-perpetuate-downtown-problem-9250854

Timestamps:
0:00 Passion for the marginalized
4:38 DNSSAB Consultant didn’t consult
15:27 Voyageur Aviation advertisement
16:34 Near North Landlord Assoc. guests
19:15 Dysfunctional system
22:04 “I could never be a landlord”
26:16 “Not … profiteering scum sucking landlords”
31:56 “It doesn't work that way”
36:23 Human Rights Code
41:55 ‘Why don’t you jack up your rates?”
49:22 ‘NIMBY-ism’
51:24 ‘Nowhere to go’
54:58 ‘Biggest thing that has to happen’
57:18 ‘211 system’
1:01:20 Not like the police didn't know
1:06:45 Need for psychiatric care capacity
1:13:29 Podcast provides long-form platform]]>4507false26fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/scott-and-dave-discuss-booze-politics-landlords-and-big-words-after-guest-is-waylaid--60779729
Seriously, do we really need more access to alcohol? If you are tripped up by a pothole, should you report it and file a lawsuit? (Scott and Dave share their own experiences). The city already absolves itself when their infrastructure work causes problems...with a viewer telling Scott it happened to him too.

And who in their right mind would want to be a landlord under current rules and tribunal backlogs? And a newsletter and podcast subscriber says Scott is wrong about the city hall windows, saying the lack of symmetry is refreshing.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60779729Thu, 25 Jul 2024 18:00:04 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThis week's Echo Essentials podcast is all about the banter between co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale when a guest can't make it to the studio...and the tables are turned a bit as Scott finds himself agreeing with Dave for a change. Seriously, do we...
Seriously, do we really need more access to alcohol? If you are tripped up by a pothole, should you report it and file a lawsuit? (Scott and Dave share their own experiences). The city already absolves itself when their infrastructure work causes problems...with a viewer telling Scott it happened to him too.

And who in their right mind would want to be a landlord under current rules and tribunal backlogs? And a newsletter and podcast subscriber says Scott is wrong about the city hall windows, saying the lack of symmetry is refreshing.]]>2344false25fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/alternate-plan-needed-to-help-people-with-addictions-living-outdoors-homeless-advocate-says--60666913
He says the Northern Pines transitionary treatment program might work for some, but he is a proponent of a co-operative venture proposal in a more farm-like setting. They have a 23-page plan that would offer more natural and homeopathic addiction treatment options, he said, while also stressing that a business operation tied to it would help them become self-dependent. Before the interview, co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale discuss other city issues, including the mis-matching City Hall windows.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60666913Thu, 18 Jul 2024 18:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkShane Moyer says the recent Echo Essentials podcasts featuring local politicians, police chief and business representatives didn't have the street-level perspective. Moyer, who is trying to help through the Homeless Advocates group, has gone through...
He says the Northern Pines transitionary treatment program might work for some, but he is a proponent of a co-operative venture proposal in a more farm-like setting. They have a 23-page plan that would offer more natural and homeopathic addiction treatment options, he said, while also stressing that a business operation tied to it would help them become self-dependent. Before the interview, co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale discuss other city issues, including the mis-matching City Hall windows.]]>4183false24fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/strategies-for-nuclear-waste-storage-don-t-make-sense-either-does-city-hall-window-design--60632027
Before the discussion, co-hosts Scott Clark asks Dave Dale why they are doing so many podcasts about the environment when they could be drilling into why City Hall windows don't match.

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60632027Thu, 11 Jul 2024 18:00:22 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkBrennain Lloyd, of Northwatch, pokes holes in nuclear waste storage decisions and so-called strategy, noting that much of it could travel through North Bay via truck convoys most days of the week for half a century. Before the discussion, co-hosts...
Before the discussion, co-hosts Scott Clark asks Dave Dale why they are doing so many podcasts about the environment when they could be drilling into why City Hall windows don't match.

]]>3242false23fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/proposed-new-library-build-could-help-solve-city-issues--60600218https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60600218Thu, 04 Jul 2024 18:00:03 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThe North Bay Public Library is close to achieving charitable status and, some day, they'll be looking at capital fundraising campaign to build a better designed facility to help build a stronger community. Don Curry, chairman of the library board,...3360false22fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/city-council-meeting-video-clips-set-up-critique-and-discussion-between-podcast-hosts--60518497
Before the clips are played, Scott asks Dave about his city council beat role at the Nugget, when it started and how it ended. Dave says he replaced a reporter who was eventually fired for killing with ink a former mayor of Mattawa and then adding fake colour into a court case story. And Dave explains why he referred to the reporter as a 'scab' who crossed a picket line in Calgary before being hired by the Nugget.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60518497Thu, 27 Jun 2024 18:00:03 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkToday's Echo Essentials Podcasts includes video clips of elected officials and a citizen presenter making comments at the June 18 North Bay City Council and Committee meeting. Co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale provide their thoughts to add insight...
Before the clips are played, Scott asks Dave about his city council beat role at the Nugget, when it started and how it ended. Dave says he replaced a reporter who was eventually fired for killing with ink a former mayor of Mattawa and then adding fake colour into a court case story. And Dave explains why he referred to the reporter as a 'scab' who crossed a picket line in Calgary before being hired by the Nugget.
]]>3069false21fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/north-bay-s-role-in-pfas-cleanup-outlined-agencies-to-answer-forever-chemicals-questions--60389326https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60389326Thu, 20 Jun 2024 18:02:31 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkNorth Bay is co-hosting a public open house on PFAS 'forever chemicals' today (Thursday, June 20) at Memorial Gardens 3 to 8 p.m., with a 4 p.m. presentation repeated at 6 p.m. Featured on this podcast is Karin Pratte, the City's Senior Environment...2934false20fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/new-police-chief-outlines-priorities-to-help-make-north-bay-officers-feel-safe-secure--60354115
Longworth, who made a presentation to council June 4, explained how high-profile cases in southern Ontario provided experience that shaped his perspective on helping officers cope with their traumas and networking with other public service agencies.

Before the interview, which was recorded June 6, Scott and Dave talk about their own experiences with police after critiquing City Hall's odd-coloured glass replacement and toilet bowl design.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60354115Thu, 13 Jun 2024 18:00:04 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkNew North Bay Police Chief Daryl Longworth joins Echo Essentials co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale to talk about his background, why he took on the role after retirement in Woodstock, Ont. and his priorities. Longworth, who made a presentation to...
Longworth, who made a presentation to council June 4, explained how high-profile cases in southern Ontario provided experience that shaped his perspective on helping officers cope with their traumas and networking with other public service agencies.

Before the interview, which was recorded June 6, Scott and Dave talk about their own experiences with police after critiquing City Hall's odd-coloured glass replacement and toilet bowl design.]]>3523false19fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/dssab-chair-says-warming-centre-low-barrier-shelter-could-be-part-of-new-homeless-hub--60237065
Currently, the low barrier shelter is located beside the Northern Pines transitional housing project operating at the former OPP headquarters off Chippewa Street. That location is also problematic, he said, because of its close proximity to a high school, senior living centres and down the road to an elementary school and daycare. While open to the idea of a potential new location, he said the the Crisis Centre and Gathering Place soup kitchen warn of potential issues.

King wanted to come on the podcast after this podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KGo6vsKcvnU

Brent Kalinowski, North Bay's Community Safety and Well-Being Coordinator, joins Small Town Times editor Dave Dale and Between 2 Daves Co-Host Dave Mendicino to discuss his role, background and latest updates. A former police officer in Saskatchewan, Brent said he has believed for a long time there needs to be better community planning to deal with issues upstream so they don't fester into expensive and difficult to mend issues later. In the news most recently, the ad hoc council committee mandate was extended for another year. Some of the questions answer in this interview: How is Northern Pines and their transitional program doing to help people live independently? Where is the low barrier shelter component going to go? And is the Homeless Hub, recommended out of the DNSSAB homelessness study with a projected $2.6-million price tag, a cure for what ails the city?

See the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan information on the city website: https://northbay.ca/our-community/com...

See a BayToday story published this week about the Homeless Hub: https://www.baytoday.ca/local-news/a-new-homeless-hub-near-downtown-north-bay-8907898]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60237065Thu, 06 Jun 2024 18:00:04 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkA controversy is brewing, once again, in the City of North Bay, over the best location and operational plan for a "warming centre" and "low barrier shelter" to serve unhoused residents. Coun. Mark King, chairman of the District of Nipissing Social...
Currently, the low barrier shelter is located beside the Northern Pines transitional housing project operating at the former OPP headquarters off Chippewa Street. That location is also problematic, he said, because of its close proximity to a high school, senior living centres and down the road to an elementary school and daycare. While open to the idea of a potential new location, he said the the Crisis Centre and Gathering Place soup kitchen warn of potential issues.

King wanted to come on the podcast after this podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KGo6vsKcvnU

Brent Kalinowski, North Bay's Community Safety and Well-Being Coordinator, joins Small Town Times editor Dave Dale and Between 2 Daves Co-Host Dave Mendicino to discuss his role, background and latest updates. A former police officer in Saskatchewan, Brent said he has believed for a long time there needs to be better community planning to deal with issues upstream so they don't fester into expensive and difficult to mend issues later. In the news most recently, the ad hoc council committee mandate was extended for another year. Some of the questions answer in this interview: How is Northern Pines and their transitional program doing to help people live independently? Where is the low barrier shelter component going to go? And is the Homeless Hub, recommended out of the DNSSAB homelessness study with a projected $2.6-million price tag, a cure for what ails the city?

See the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan information on the city website: https://northbay.ca/our-community/com...

See a BayToday story published this week about the Homeless Hub: https://www.baytoday.ca/local-news/a-new-homeless-hub-near-downtown-north-bay-8907898]]>3773false18fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/tips-strategy-shared-about-new-board-game-tripped-plus-scott-s-stolen-truck-saga--60165852Tripped! Is a new board game coming out this year that sees players travel around North America plus points offshore to complete objectives. Tripped! creator Eric Boutilier and Quinn & Sherry President Mark Sherry join the show to highlight their new creation, explain how to play and offer strategy tips.

Mark is the co-creator of the Game of Things! and has used his expertise to help Eric re-design the game through many years and they are finally getting close to launch later in 2024.

Vote between North Bay and Sudbury for the last remaining Northern Ontario to be named on the Tripped! Board Game: https://igottripped.com/

Pre-Order and save here: https://get.trippedgame.com/

0:00 Scott’s Stolen Truck Update
11:26 Mark and Eric talk Tripped!
23:29 Logistics of creating a board game
44:50 Wrapping it up



Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60165852Thu, 30 May 2024 18:00:03 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkTripped! Is a new board game coming out this year that sees players travel around North America plus points offshore to complete objectives. Tripped! creator Eric Boutilier and Quinn & Sherry President Mark Sherry join the show to highlight their...Tripped! Is a new board game coming out this year that sees players travel around North America plus points offshore to complete objectives. Tripped! creator Eric Boutilier and Quinn & Sherry President Mark Sherry join the show to highlight their new creation, explain how to play and offer strategy tips.

Mark is the co-creator of the Game of Things! and has used his expertise to help Eric re-design the game through many years and they are finally getting close to launch later in 2024.

Vote between North Bay and Sudbury for the last remaining Northern Ontario to be named on the Tripped! Board Game: https://igottripped.com/

Pre-Order and save here: https://get.trippedgame.com/

0:00 Scott’s Stolen Truck Update
11:26 Mark and Eric talk Tripped!
23:29 Logistics of creating a board game
44:50 Wrapping it up



Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>2832false17fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/suicide-discussion-connects-physical-impacts-of-emotional-trauma-and-preventative-strategies--60076838
The podcast was motivated by recent community losses and precedes the Chat4Chad gala fundraiser Saturday, May 25.

Referenced in the discussion is a workbook Dr. Nagasawa pulled together during COVID to assist therapists and their patients face the impacts of isolation, uncertainty, stress and trauma:

https://www.baypsychology.ca/workshops 

Also listen to the To North Bay With Love podcast with Wade Ringler, Chad Ringler's brother, and Mark Deacon, fundraiser coordinator with a family inspiration to help raise money for existing mental health programs through the North Bay Reginal Health Centre:

https://www.northbayecho.ca/we-need-to-talk-about-mental-illness/

https://www.chat4chad.ca/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60076838Thu, 23 May 2024 18:00:04 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkDr. Sachiko Nagasawa, of Bay Psychology, joins Echo Essentials co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale to talk about the various aspects of suicide, from 'survivor's guilt' to trends, contributing causes and strategies that help people manage their...
The podcast was motivated by recent community losses and precedes the Chat4Chad gala fundraiser Saturday, May 25.

Referenced in the discussion is a workbook Dr. Nagasawa pulled together during COVID to assist therapists and their patients face the impacts of isolation, uncertainty, stress and trauma:

https://www.baypsychology.ca/workshops 

Also listen to the To North Bay With Love podcast with Wade Ringler, Chad Ringler's brother, and Mark Deacon, fundraiser coordinator with a family inspiration to help raise money for existing mental health programs through the North Bay Reginal Health Centre:

https://www.northbayecho.ca/we-need-to-talk-about-mental-illness/

https://www.chat4chad.ca/]]>4378false16fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/scott-s-truck-was-stolen-and-cas-has-created-the-elmwood-community-hub--59972082Gisele Hebert, Executive Director of the Children’s Aid Society of Nipissing and Parry Sound, joins the Echo Essentials podcast to talk about the Elmwood Community Hub. She also speaks about her nearing retirement and reflecting on the evolution of CAS during her 39-year career.

Scott and Dave also talk about his recent trip to Toronto and dealing with Scott’s truck being stolen. 


0:00 Stolen Car
10:40 Gisele talks about her time with Children’s Aid
22:00 Elmwood’s revitalization 



Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59972082Thu, 16 May 2024 18:00:03 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkGisele Hebert, Executive Director of the Children’s Aid Society of Nipissing and Parry Sound, joins the Echo Essentials podcast to talk about the Elmwood Community Hub. She also speaks about her nearing retirement and reflecting on the evolution of...Gisele Hebert, Executive Director of the Children’s Aid Society of Nipissing and Parry Sound, joins the Echo Essentials podcast to talk about the Elmwood Community Hub. She also speaks about her nearing retirement and reflecting on the evolution of CAS during her 39-year career.

Scott and Dave also talk about his recent trip to Toronto and dealing with Scott’s truck being stolen. 


0:00 Stolen Car
10:40 Gisele talks about her time with Children’s Aid
22:00 Elmwood’s revitalization 



Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>3134false15fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/are-your-kind-acts-altruistic-or-selfish--59883165It’s CMHA’s Mental Health Week and alongside the Kindness North Project we brought on Nipissing University Professor Dr Steven Arnocky.
 
Dr Anocky speaks about the differences between altruistic and selfish behaviour in relation to acts of kindness. He also discusses a study he conducted that was picked up on a national level

To learn more about the Kindness North Project visit: kindnessnorth.ca 


0:00 Dr Arnocky talks altuirism
16:00 Altruism and religion
34:00 Community based kindness



Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59883165Thu, 09 May 2024 18:00:03 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkIt’s CMHA’s Mental Health Week and alongside the Kindness North Project we brought on Nipissing University Professor Dr Steven Arnocky.   Dr Anocky speaks about the differences between altruistic and selfish behaviour in relation to acts of kindness....It’s CMHA’s Mental Health Week and alongside the Kindness North Project we brought on Nipissing University Professor Dr Steven Arnocky.
 
Dr Anocky speaks about the differences between altruistic and selfish behaviour in relation to acts of kindness. He also discusses a study he conducted that was picked up on a national level

To learn more about the Kindness North Project visit: kindnessnorth.ca 


0:00 Dr Arnocky talks altuirism
16:00 Altruism and religion
34:00 Community based kindness



Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>2724false14fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/what-does-north-bay-s-future-economic-growth-look-like--59739641Mayor Peter Chirico talked with Echo’s Uphar Singh at his office about the future of the city’s growth. Uphar, who is an international student, asks the mayor how North Bay is integrating students into the workforce and their impact on our economy.

Dave and Scott also discuss the current water levels in the area, and do you need a midwife or is it better to just use the hospital.

0:00 Water Levels are Causing Issues
10:30 Do you need a midwife?
17:45 Uphar talks to the Mayor
29:00 Wrapping it all up


Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59739641Thu, 02 May 2024 18:00:04 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkMayor Peter Chirico talked with Echo’s Uphar Singh at his office about the future of the city’s growth. Uphar, who is an international student, asks the mayor how North Bay is integrating students into the workforce and their impact on our economy....Mayor Peter Chirico talked with Echo’s Uphar Singh at his office about the future of the city’s growth. Uphar, who is an international student, asks the mayor how North Bay is integrating students into the workforce and their impact on our economy.

Dave and Scott also discuss the current water levels in the area, and do you need a midwife or is it better to just use the hospital.

0:00 Water Levels are Causing Issues
10:30 Do you need a midwife?
17:45 Uphar talks to the Mayor
29:00 Wrapping it all up


Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>1928false13fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/canada-failing-afghanistan-war-heroes--59535750
Retired Captain Mike Harrison and Andrew Larochelle, brother to Jess, join Echo Essential podcast co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale to discuss the merits of both campaigns. 

Harrison said it's become a political issue, likely because many of the supporters of Larochelle's medal review request are Conservatives. At the end, all agree it would be an excellent issue for Nipissing-Temiskaming MP Anthony Rota, a Liberal, to pick up and run with during his last term in office.



Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.
For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.
Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho
Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59535750Thu, 25 Apr 2024 18:00:03 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkAfghanistan war hero Jess Larochelle died last fall without the Canadian Victoria Cross being awarded him, as many in the military and veterans believe. Now there's a movement to have his mother, Anna Larochelle, designated by Canadian Legions as the...
Retired Captain Mike Harrison and Andrew Larochelle, brother to Jess, join Echo Essential podcast co-hosts Scott Clark and Dave Dale to discuss the merits of both campaigns. 

Harrison said it's become a political issue, likely because many of the supporters of Larochelle's medal review request are Conservatives. At the end, all agree it would be an excellent issue for Nipissing-Temiskaming MP Anthony Rota, a Liberal, to pick up and run with during his last term in office.



Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.
For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.
Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho
Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>3911false12fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-ugly-truth-behind-the-dionne-quintuplets--59476411Brian Callahan, a descendant of the Dionne family, joins the show to discuss the phenomenon that was the Dionne Quintuplets. Brian, who recently stepped down from the Quints Museum board, shares his perspective of how the exploitation of the quintuplets for financial gain affected the family (there were 14 children in all). He also reveals some hard truths as we approach the 90th anniversary of their birth.

Dave and Scott also discuss the recent drama revolving around the North Bay Mattawa Conservation Authority.
 

• The Mattawa Conservation Authority turnover  0:00
• 90th Birthday of Quints bittersweet 12:30
• The $3.8 million court case 31:45
• Outro 50:51

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59476411Thu, 18 Apr 2024 18:00:04 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkBrian Callahan, a descendant of the Dionne family, joins the show to discuss the phenomenon that was the Dionne Quintuplets. Brian, who recently stepped down from the Quints Museum board, shares his perspective of how the exploitation of the...Brian Callahan, a descendant of the Dionne family, joins the show to discuss the phenomenon that was the Dionne Quintuplets. Brian, who recently stepped down from the Quints Museum board, shares his perspective of how the exploitation of the quintuplets for financial gain affected the family (there were 14 children in all). He also reveals some hard truths as we approach the 90th anniversary of their birth.

Dave and Scott also discuss the recent drama revolving around the North Bay Mattawa Conservation Authority.
 

• The Mattawa Conservation Authority turnover  0:00
• 90th Birthday of Quints bittersweet 12:30
• The $3.8 million court case 31:45
• Outro 50:51

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>3197false11fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/should-north-bay-be-worried-about-pfas-in-the-water--59402598North Bay resident John Best joins the show to talk about the PFAS levels in our water. He used to sell eggs he locally produced until he was told to stop due to the levels of PFAS found in them. 

Scott also opens the show confronting Dave about how he treated him on last week’s episode and brings the receipts, and while Dave offers a 'sorry you feel that' apology, he also turns the tables a bit.
 

• Scott has a bone to pick with Dave 0:00
• PFAS in our water 8:30
• Scott has a new marketing hack for PFAS infested eggs 32:30
• Outro 57:15

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59402598Thu, 11 Apr 2024 18:00:04 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkNorth Bay resident John Best joins the show to talk about the PFAS levels in our water. He used to sell eggs he locally produced until he was told to stop due to the levels of PFAS found in them.  Scott also opens the show confronting Dave about how...North Bay resident John Best joins the show to talk about the PFAS levels in our water. He used to sell eggs he locally produced until he was told to stop due to the levels of PFAS found in them. 

Scott also opens the show confronting Dave about how he treated him on last week’s episode and brings the receipts, and while Dave offers a 'sorry you feel that' apology, he also turns the tables a bit.
 

• Scott has a bone to pick with Dave 0:00
• PFAS in our water 8:30
• Scott has a new marketing hack for PFAS infested eggs 32:30
• Outro 57:15

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>3549false10fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-north-bay-s-first-lawyer-helped-build-our-community--59232346Local historian Nestor Prisco joins the show to talk about a recent book he wrote called “Crown Attorney: Arthur George Browning”. The biography highlights North Bay’s first resident lawyer and his influence and work to build the community of North Bay.

Scott and Dave also discuss the recent downtown fire and the realities of owning a building as a business owner.

• Intro 0:00
• North Bay’s first lawyer 12:30
• The last sheriff in Ontario 35:40
• Outro 1:03:35

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59232346Thu, 04 Apr 2024 18:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkLocal historian Nestor Prisco joins the show to talk about a recent book he wrote called “Crown Attorney: Arthur George Browning”. The biography highlights North Bay’s first resident lawyer and his influence and work to build the community of North...Local historian Nestor Prisco joins the show to talk about a recent book he wrote called “Crown Attorney: Arthur George Browning”. The biography highlights North Bay’s first resident lawyer and his influence and work to build the community of North Bay.

Scott and Dave also discuss the recent downtown fire and the realities of owning a building as a business owner.

• Intro 0:00
• North Bay’s first lawyer 12:30
• The last sheriff in Ontario 35:40
• Outro 1:03:35

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>3913false9fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/rcaf-s-100th-celebrated-in-north-bay--59171999
Host Scott Clark, a former 22 Wing Honorary Colonel 2013-2016, and guests cover the importance and history of the Royal Canadian Air Force, one of the oldest in the world. And they talk about how the RCAF remains a vital support to missions around the globe. Initially, North Bay was tasked to watch the northern horizon and now it has eyes across Canada, including all coasts, diligently watching for threats from each direction and within. “We went from observers with binoculars, whether on the ground or in the air, to satellites,” CWO Pignatel says, referring to the technological transformations, with Col. Jolette explaining that the mission has always been to deter and de-escalate continental incursions. On March 28, the RCAF conducted a flag-raising ceremony at 22 Wing North Bay CFB, home to 21 Aerospace Control and Warning Squadron. Immediately after, they joined municipal representatives to accept a city proclamation commemorating the significant milestone, as well as the air force’s foundations in North Bay.

The city celebrates its 100th anniversary of incorporation next year in 2025. The RCAF presence in North Bay began in 1951 as part of the bi-national aerospace defence of North America with the NORAD North Bay and a series of fighter aircraft units for four decades. Centennial celebrations are planned throughout the year: A military gala is taking place April 18 in one of the Voyageur Aviation hangars, formerly used by the RCAF. Armed Forces Day in North Bay is June 19 and they are going all out by featuring the Snowbirds, Skyhawks and CF-18 Jets. Expect more special recognition at the Battle of Britain ceremonies in September and on Remembrance Day. RCAF members are also wearing a 100th RCAF patch on their uniform sleeves throughout the year.  

See the North Bay Museum for background: https://www.northbaymuseum.com/gatewaytothesky/blog-post-title-four-rsxm4-hn5r3-lfmyw  

For a full history of the RCAF, visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/air-force/services/history-heritage.html  

To check out the Canadian Forces Museum of Aerospace Defence at 22 Wing CFB: https://www.aerospacedefence.ca/]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59171999Mon, 01 Apr 2024 07:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThe RCAF’s 100th anniversary is this morning, April 1, and Echo Community Podcast Network is proud to present a special North Bay Echo Essentials episode featuring 22 Wing Commander Col. Richard Jolette and CWO Didier Pignatel. Host Scott Clark, a...
Host Scott Clark, a former 22 Wing Honorary Colonel 2013-2016, and guests cover the importance and history of the Royal Canadian Air Force, one of the oldest in the world. And they talk about how the RCAF remains a vital support to missions around the globe. Initially, North Bay was tasked to watch the northern horizon and now it has eyes across Canada, including all coasts, diligently watching for threats from each direction and within. “We went from observers with binoculars, whether on the ground or in the air, to satellites,” CWO Pignatel says, referring to the technological transformations, with Col. Jolette explaining that the mission has always been to deter and de-escalate continental incursions. On March 28, the RCAF conducted a flag-raising ceremony at 22 Wing North Bay CFB, home to 21 Aerospace Control and Warning Squadron. Immediately after, they joined municipal representatives to accept a city proclamation commemorating the significant milestone, as well as the air force’s foundations in North Bay.

The city celebrates its 100th anniversary of incorporation next year in 2025. The RCAF presence in North Bay began in 1951 as part of the bi-national aerospace defence of North America with the NORAD North Bay and a series of fighter aircraft units for four decades. Centennial celebrations are planned throughout the year: A military gala is taking place April 18 in one of the Voyageur Aviation hangars, formerly used by the RCAF. Armed Forces Day in North Bay is June 19 and they are going all out by featuring the Snowbirds, Skyhawks and CF-18 Jets. Expect more special recognition at the Battle of Britain ceremonies in September and on Remembrance Day. RCAF members are also wearing a 100th RCAF patch on their uniform sleeves throughout the year.  

See the North Bay Museum for background: https://www.northbaymuseum.com/gatewaytothesky/blog-post-title-four-rsxm4-hn5r3-lfmyw  

For a full history of the RCAF, visit: https://www.canada.ca/en/air-force/services/history-heritage.html  

To check out the Canadian Forces Museum of Aerospace Defence at 22 Wing CFB: https://www.aerospacedefence.ca/]]>2221falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/north-bay-s-100th-anniversary-celebration--59169796Former City Councillor Dave Mendicino joins Scott and Dave to talk about the upcoming 100th anniversary for North Bay.

They talk about what the 100th anniversary means to each of them and the city as a whole and reminisce about some of their favourite memories.
 

• Intro 0:00
• North Bay’s 100th anniversary 16:10
• Who should come back to celebrate? 35:10
• Outro 59:30

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59169796Thu, 28 Mar 2024 18:00:01 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkFormer City Councillor Dave Mendicino joins Scott and Dave to talk about the upcoming 100th anniversary for North Bay. They talk about what the 100th anniversary means to each of them and the city as a whole and reminisce about some of their...Former City Councillor Dave Mendicino joins Scott and Dave to talk about the upcoming 100th anniversary for North Bay.

They talk about what the 100th anniversary means to each of them and the city as a whole and reminisce about some of their favourite memories.
 

• Intro 0:00
• North Bay’s 100th anniversary 16:10
• Who should come back to celebrate? 35:10
• Outro 59:30

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>3688false8fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/this-is-why-local-journalism-needs-to-exist--59126026Local BayToday reporter Stu Campaigne joins Scott and Dave to talk about his recent articles he wrote about North Star Studios shutting down operations.

They also discuss the importance of proper local journalism in our community to hold people accountable and make sure the citizens know what is happening in their city.
 

• Intro 0:00
• Stu talks local journalism 5:30
• Promises that aren’t kept 28:40
• Outro 48:35

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59126026Thu, 21 Mar 2024 18:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkLocal BayToday reporter Stu Campaigne joins Scott and Dave to talk about his recent articles he wrote about North Star Studios shutting down operations. They also discuss the importance of proper local journalism in our community to hold people...Local BayToday reporter Stu Campaigne joins Scott and Dave to talk about his recent articles he wrote about North Star Studios shutting down operations.

They also discuss the importance of proper local journalism in our community to hold people accountable and make sure the citizens know what is happening in their city.
 

• Intro 0:00
• Stu talks local journalism 5:30
• Promises that aren’t kept 28:40
• Outro 48:35

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>3077false7fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-does-the-city-deal-with-budgets-and-tax-increases--59034251Deputy Mayor Maggie Horsfield joins Scott and Dave to talk about the budget process the city is going through this year. She explains why they need tax increase and where that money goes. Scott suggests that the Summer in the Park Festival was actually a great bang for the public buck after Maggie says the Summer Concert series, Bay Block Party and Capitol Centre’s Blues Festival is good for now.

The hosts begin the episode chatting about what’s going on at city council with Dave ranting about procedural bylaw hypocrisy while Scott asks viewers: Whose cell phone on council would you like to look at if you had the chance?

• Dave and Scott alk about city council  0:00
• Maggie Horsfield talks budget 16:50
• Summer festivals in North Bay  36:00
• Outro 51:20

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59034251Thu, 14 Mar 2024 18:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkDeputy Mayor Maggie Horsfield joins Scott and Dave to talk about the budget process the city is going through this year. She explains why they need tax increase and where that money goes. Scott suggests that the Summer in the Park Festival was...Deputy Mayor Maggie Horsfield joins Scott and Dave to talk about the budget process the city is going through this year. She explains why they need tax increase and where that money goes. Scott suggests that the Summer in the Park Festival was actually a great bang for the public buck after Maggie says the Summer Concert series, Bay Block Party and Capitol Centre’s Blues Festival is good for now.

The hosts begin the episode chatting about what’s going on at city council with Dave ranting about procedural bylaw hypocrisy while Scott asks viewers: Whose cell phone on council would you like to look at if you had the chance?

• Dave and Scott alk about city council  0:00
• Maggie Horsfield talks budget 16:50
• Summer festivals in North Bay  36:00
• Outro 51:20

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>3299false6fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/city-of-north-bay-planning-perspectives-re-trout-lake-watershed-lots--58935983Beverly Hillier, Manager, Planning & Building Services at the City of North Bay, joins the show to discuss the city’s viewpoint on developing lots in the Trout Lake watershed. The interview follows Echo Essential's podcast with Liza Vandermeer, of the Trout Lake Conservation Association, two weeks ago.

Dave and Scott also recorded some banter at the North Bay Home and Garden Expo in the Echo podcast booth Feb. 23-25. Scott gets excited about Dave and North Bay Mayor Peter Chirico having a breakthrough, of sorts, in their icy relationship.

• Baby steps, the mayor waves at Dave 0:00
• Beverly Hillier joins from the city to discuss trout lake 14:30
• Peer reviewing the scientific findings 33:00
• Outro 59:00

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.
For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.
Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho
Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58935983Thu, 07 Mar 2024 19:00:01 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkBeverly Hillier, Manager, Planning & Building Services at the City of North Bay, joins the show to discuss the city’s viewpoint on developing lots in the Trout Lake watershed. The interview follows Echo Essential's podcast with Liza Vandermeer, of...Beverly Hillier, Manager, Planning & Building Services at the City of North Bay, joins the show to discuss the city’s viewpoint on developing lots in the Trout Lake watershed. The interview follows Echo Essential's podcast with Liza Vandermeer, of the Trout Lake Conservation Association, two weeks ago.

Dave and Scott also recorded some banter at the North Bay Home and Garden Expo in the Echo podcast booth Feb. 23-25. Scott gets excited about Dave and North Bay Mayor Peter Chirico having a breakthrough, of sorts, in their icy relationship.

• Baby steps, the mayor waves at Dave 0:00
• Beverly Hillier joins from the city to discuss trout lake 14:30
• Peer reviewing the scientific findings 33:00
• Outro 59:00

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.
For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.
Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho
Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>3727false5fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-fight-to-help-preserve-the-land--58868146The Anishinabek Nation held the 8th Annual Lands and Resources Forum: Kina-Gego-Naabadosin—Everything is Connected, in North Bay recently. Dave, a former editor for the Anishinabek Nation 1993-2000, interviewed Grand Council Chief Reg Niganobe and Northern Superior Region Deputy Grand Council Chief Melvin Hardy. Scott, meanwhile, sat down with Jason Laronde, the Director of Land and Resources.

The conversations revolve around what exactly the forum is meant to achieve and the issues the Anishinabek leaders are trying to resolve with the provincial and federal governments.


In the introductory banter, however, Scott asks Dave to explain his salty relationship with former Anishinabek News director Maurice Switzer

• Scott talks about helping with the forum 0:00
• Reg and Melvin join to talk about the political battle between the nation and the government 13:00
• Jason joins Scott to talk about his role in the forum 32:00
• Outro 51:00

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58868146Thu, 29 Feb 2024 19:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThe Anishinabek Nation held the 8th Annual Lands and Resources Forum: Kina-Gego-Naabadosin—Everything is Connected, in North Bay recently. Dave, a former editor for the Anishinabek Nation 1993-2000, interviewed Grand Council Chief Reg Niganobe and...The Anishinabek Nation held the 8th Annual Lands and Resources Forum: Kina-Gego-Naabadosin—Everything is Connected, in North Bay recently. Dave, a former editor for the Anishinabek Nation 1993-2000, interviewed Grand Council Chief Reg Niganobe and Northern Superior Region Deputy Grand Council Chief Melvin Hardy. Scott, meanwhile, sat down with Jason Laronde, the Director of Land and Resources.

The conversations revolve around what exactly the forum is meant to achieve and the issues the Anishinabek leaders are trying to resolve with the provincial and federal governments.


In the introductory banter, however, Scott asks Dave to explain his salty relationship with former Anishinabek News director Maurice Switzer

• Scott talks about helping with the forum 0:00
• Reg and Melvin join to talk about the political battle between the nation and the government 13:00
• Jason joins Scott to talk about his role in the forum 32:00
• Outro 51:00

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>3150false4fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-dangers-of-developing-on-trout-lake--58752290Liza Vandermeer, a member of the Trout Lake Conservation Association, joins Scott and Dave to talk about what developing housing on Trout Lake would mean for our city and the dangers involved.

Dave and Scott also talk about a previous Dave did on Small Town Times where he talked to local councillors Sara Inch and Jamie Lowery.

• Is Council going to change next election? 2:40
• Does Anthony Rota deserve an apology? 10:00
• Developing on trout lake 15:00
• Pollution issues 35:00
• Outro 52:00

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Story Studio Network & Clark Communications

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58752290Thu, 22 Feb 2024 19:00:01 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkLiza Vandermeer, a member of the Trout Lake Conservation Association, joins Scott and Dave to talk about what developing housing on Trout Lake would mean for our city and the dangers involved. Dave and Scott also talk about a previous Dave did on...Liza Vandermeer, a member of the Trout Lake Conservation Association, joins Scott and Dave to talk about what developing housing on Trout Lake would mean for our city and the dangers involved.

Dave and Scott also talk about a previous Dave did on Small Town Times where he talked to local councillors Sara Inch and Jamie Lowery.

• Is Council going to change next election? 2:40
• Does Anthony Rota deserve an apology? 10:00
• Developing on trout lake 15:00
• Pollution issues 35:00
• Outro 52:00

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Story Studio Network & Clark Communications

]]>3232false3fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/is-immigration-a-problem-in-north-bay--58676471Don Curry, a local Immigration Consultant, joins Scott and Dave to talk about immigration to Canada and North Bay. He debunks some myths about immigration and also why it’s important for the economy.

Dave and Scott also pose the question “is there a problem with how many international students have come over to study in Canada?”

• Dave and Scott talk about international students 2:40
• Don Curry joins the show to talk about immigration 10:20
• Roadblocks for international students 18:30
• What position is Canada in with immigration? 27:40
• Do students get a free ride financially? 36:34
• International relations affecting immigration 42:00
• What’s coming up next week? 49:00

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Story Studio Network & Clark Communications

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58676471Thu, 15 Feb 2024 19:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkDon Curry, a local Immigration Consultant, joins Scott and Dave to talk about immigration to Canada and North Bay. He debunks some myths about immigration and also why it’s important for the economy. Dave and Scott also pose the question “is there a...Don Curry, a local Immigration Consultant, joins Scott and Dave to talk about immigration to Canada and North Bay. He debunks some myths about immigration and also why it’s important for the economy.

Dave and Scott also pose the question “is there a problem with how many international students have come over to study in Canada?”

• Dave and Scott talk about international students 2:40
• Don Curry joins the show to talk about immigration 10:20
• Roadblocks for international students 18:30
• What position is Canada in with immigration? 27:40
• Do students get a free ride financially? 36:34
• International relations affecting immigration 42:00
• What’s coming up next week? 49:00

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Story Studio Network & Clark Communications

]]>3085false2fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/it-s-been-a-tough-year-for-snowmobilers--58578424Shawn Flindall joins Scott and Dave to talk about some of the best snowmobile trails in the North Bay area and the impact mild winters have had on local snowmobilers.

Dave and Scott also discuss the latest news around City Hall including a joke during a council meeting that may or may not have landed!

• Dave and Scott talk about the latest from city council 2:50
• Shawn gives his 3 best day trips 10:20
• Is Loon poop causing issues? 19:30
• What are the upcoming episodes for Echo Essentials? 25:40

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Story Studio Network & Clark Communications

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58578424Thu, 08 Feb 2024 19:00:02 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkShawn Flindall joins Scott and Dave to talk about some of the best snowmobile trails in the North Bay area and the impact mild winters have had on local snowmobilers. Dave and Scott also discuss the latest news around City Hall including a joke...Shawn Flindall joins Scott and Dave to talk about some of the best snowmobile trails in the North Bay area and the impact mild winters have had on local snowmobilers.

Dave and Scott also discuss the latest news around City Hall including a joke during a council meeting that may or may not have landed!

• Dave and Scott talk about the latest from city council 2:50
• Shawn gives his 3 best day trips 10:20
• Is Loon poop causing issues? 19:30
• What are the upcoming episodes for Echo Essentials? 25:40

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

For exclusive North Bay updates and insights, subscribe to our newsletter Echo Essentials.

Stay connected with Echo on social media: @NorthBayEcho

Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Director: Dave Dale
• Produced by Story Studio Network & Clark Communications

]]>1689false1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/introducing-the-echo-essentials-podcast--58577901The Echo Essentials Podcast ties together all the elements of the North Bay Echo Community Podcast Network, hosted by Essentials newsletter editor Dave Dale and Echo's principal partner Scott Clark.

Guests on the weekly show will reflect the challenges and issues facing North Bay while Scott and Dave discuss the topics and podcasts featured in the newsletter ... as well as upcoming projects.

References to the To North Bay With Love, Backroads Bill, Frontline and Cheap Seats episodes will be common.

The Echo Essentials Podcast drops online each Thursday at 2 p.m.

Billed as North Bay’s oddest couple, Scott and Dave are patently different in both manner and outlook despite being born within a mile of each other and a month apart in 1965. Scott was born for theatre and built up a 20-year career in radio split between Toronto and North Bay before entering the marketing game with Clark Communications celebrating the 20-year milestone in 2024.

Dave took the print media route, beginning in 1986 as a Canadore College student and taking a journalism journey through B.C., North Bay, Kapuskasing and Orillia before a seven-year stint with the Anishinabek News and 18 years as a Nugget reporter, photographer and columnist. He is also the publisher of the Back in the Bay Magazine, a quarterly print product with 12 editions since launching in 2021.

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

To inquire about being a guest or commenting on content, please email editor@northbayecho.ca



Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Specialist: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58577901Mon, 05 Feb 2024 18:18:14 +0000The Echo Podcast NetworkThe Echo Essentials Podcast ties together all the elements of the North Bay Echo Community Podcast Network, hosted by Essentials newsletter editor Dave Dale and Echo's principal partner Scott Clark. Guests on the weekly show will reflect the...The Echo Essentials Podcast ties together all the elements of the North Bay Echo Community Podcast Network, hosted by Essentials newsletter editor Dave Dale and Echo's principal partner Scott Clark.

Guests on the weekly show will reflect the challenges and issues facing North Bay while Scott and Dave discuss the topics and podcasts featured in the newsletter ... as well as upcoming projects.

References to the To North Bay With Love, Backroads Bill, Frontline and Cheap Seats episodes will be common.

The Echo Essentials Podcast drops online each Thursday at 2 p.m.

Billed as North Bay’s oddest couple, Scott and Dave are patently different in both manner and outlook despite being born within a mile of each other and a month apart in 1965. Scott was born for theatre and built up a 20-year career in radio split between Toronto and North Bay before entering the marketing game with Clark Communications celebrating the 20-year milestone in 2024.

Dave took the print media route, beginning in 1986 as a Canadore College student and taking a journalism journey through B.C., North Bay, Kapuskasing and Orillia before a seven-year stint with the Anishinabek News and 18 years as a Nugget reporter, photographer and columnist. He is also the publisher of the Back in the Bay Magazine, a quarterly print product with 12 editions since launching in 2021.

Explore more North Bay podcasts and stay updated on local events and news at NorthBayEcho.ca.

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Production Credits:

• Hosts: Dave Dale & Scott Clark
• Producer: Ben Sargent
• Content Specialist: Dave Dale
• Produced by Clark Communications

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