The Villager

08/07/2025

Remember, no podcast episode this week! We will be back next week with a brand new episode!

Why not take this time to catch up and listen to some of our past episodes?

https://villagermagazine.ca/podcast/

08/04/2025

Our August issue of the magazine is out now! If you haven't grabbed your physical copy yet, you can check out the digital version here:

https://villagermagazine.ca/read-current-issue/

August 2025

07/31/2025

We will be taking a break for the next couple of weeks as we take some time to enjoy the summer before it's gone!

Our next podcast episode won't be until August 14, but our magazine will release on time as normal on August 1st both in print and online.

So no podcast episode for this week or next.

We will be back soon!

07/29/2025

Remember those endless summers from childhood? Hillary Handy is bringing back the simple, old-school fun this season: sprinklers, forts, friendship bracelets, star gazing, and more.

No screens, no packed schedules, just pure, carefree play and connection.

Want to rediscover that summer magic with your kids? Click to read Hillary's latest collection of classic summertime ideas you can try at home or around the region.

https://villagermagazine.ca/community/villager-ventures-kickin-it-old-school-edition/

With summer upon us, I’ve been thinking more about the summers of my youth. Back then, the season felt endless—an open stretch of time filled with warm, sunny mornings, barefoot wanderings, and lon

07/24/2025

Check out the latest episode of the Behind The Village podcast featuring Jordan and Kirsten O’Coin from 5th and Seven Custom Contracting. Hear their story from high school sweethearts to successful entrepreneurs focused on trust, quality, and community in construction.

They share insights on home renovations, working with family, and building strong client relationships. Whether you’re into custom homes or local business stories, this one’s worth a listen.

Listen now!

https://villagermagazine.ca/community/podcast/building-trust-construction-industry-jordan-kirsten-ocoin/

07/22/2025

Artist spotlight of the month!

Discover the amazing work of Enrique Bravo, a talented artist and architect based in Canada since 2018. From acrylics and watercolours to comics and murals, his creativity knows no bounds!

With over 35 years of experience, Enrique’s unique take on space, volume, and perspective shines through in every piece. Check out his story and explore his projects like "Depending On Nothing" and "Dune Crusaders."

Learn more: https://villagermagazine.ca/culture/artist-of-the-month-enrique-bravo/

07/17/2025

Want to learn how we can all work together for a sustainable future? Check out the latest episode of the Behind the Village podcast with Sarah Patterson, president of Common Earth and Sustainable Orillia.

She shares her story and talks about practical ways to tackle climate change, connect with nature, and build stronger communities. A great listen for anyone interested in making a difference!

https://villagermagazine.ca/community/podcast/building-a-sustainable-future-together-sarah-patterson/

07/10/2025

Check out the latest episode of the Mariposa Folk Festival podcast with historian Michael Hill. Hear amazing stories from over 50 years of music and moments, including legends like Joni Mitchell and Neil Young.

Learn how this iconic festival has grown and stayed a beloved part of Canadian culture.

Listen now and dive into the history, music, and community spirit that make Mariposa so special.

https://villagermagazine.ca/community/podcast/mariposa-folk-festival-history-50-years-of-music-mayhem-magic-michael-hill/

07/08/2025

Discover how young volunteers like Kelvin and his family are helping protect salamanders and our local ecosystem at Mitchell Bruce Nature Reserve! Join The Couchiching Conservancy’s community science programs and see how you can make a difference for nature and future generations.

Read the full story to learn more about their work and why it matters.

https://villagermagazine.ca/outdoors/tracking-salamanders-and-teaching-love-for-nature/

Mitchell Bruce Nature Reserve Mitchell Bruce Nature Reserve Kelvin has dark hair and a big smile. He’s eight years old and he’s telling me with wide eyes how yesterday he and his friend found five sal

07/04/2025

Did you know that this week's podcast guest, The Free Label, has teamed up with local designer Hip Chick Design to bring you exclusive, limited-run merch!

Check out these custom tote bags made from repurposed recycled fabrics, featuring original artwork from the band's two-track "DANCING ON YOUR OWN." Each bag is handmade, sustainable, and one-of-a-kind. They're designed to perfectly fit their Songs For Sienna vinyl!

Get yours only at this weekend's Mariposa Folk Festival — but hurry, quantities are super limited!

07/03/2025

Check out the latest episode of the Behind the Village podcast featuring The Free Label!

Hear from Cole Mendez and Jacob Thompson about their journey from a basement studio to international stages, their unique blend of 70s disco, 90s R&B, and funk, and their passion for live, unfiltered performances. They also share stories from life on the road and insights into their creative process.

Listen now and discover their new album, “Songs for Sienna,” plus what’s next for the band.

https://villagermagazine.ca/community/podcast/local-roots-global-stage-the-free-labels-story-cole-mendez-jacob-thompson/

07/01/2025

Mariposa Arts Theatre has wrapped up an incredible 2024-2025 season full of unforgettable performances and award celebrations.

The company received 12 nominations and 3 wins at this year’s ACT-CO THEA Awards, recognizing excellence in comedy, drama, and musicals.

To read more about their season and upcoming plans, click the link.

https://villagermagazine.ca/culture/mat-concludes-award-winning-theatrical-season/

MAT QC3 Cast MAT SC Cast & Crew Mariposa Arts Theatre has officially wrapped up our 2024-2025 season, and what a season it was. Through each of our shows, MAT delved into the complex motivations,