What Barrie's Talking About

What would you do if everything changed in an instant? That’s the question at the heart of this week’s conversations across Barrie and Simcoe County. From emergency preparedness to community support and deeply personal stories, there’s a lot to take in. Here’s what Barrie’s talking about this week. Emergency Preparedness Week: Are You Ready? We all know something unexpected will happen at some point. It could be a major storm, a power outage, or another emergency that disrupts daily life. That’s why Emergency Preparedness Week is such an important reminder. Local officials are encouraging residents to take simple steps now so they’re not caught off guard later. That includes building an emergency kit, having a plan in place with family members, and knowing where to find reliable information during a crisis. The goal isn’t to scare people. It’s about being ready so you can respond calmly and effectively when something does happen. Barrie Food Bank Teams Up with Baycats for Big Fundraiser It’s shaping up to be a big weekend for the Barrie Food Bank. The organization is once again teaming up with the Barrie Baycats for the annual Home Runs for the Homeless event. The fundraiser combines community support with a fun day at the ballpark. Fans can enjoy the game while also contributing to an important cause, helping provide food for those who need it most. With demand at the food bank still high, events like this play a key role in keeping shelves stocked and supporting families across the region. Federal Cost of Living Measures Explained The rising cost of living continues to be a major concern for many households. Ruby Sahota is outlining steps the federal government is taking to help ease some of that pressure. These measures are aimed at providing relief through financial supports and targeted programs designed to help Canadians manage rising expenses. For many residents, understanding what support is available and how to access it is an important part of navigating the current economic climate. Survivors Speak Out to Protect the Next Generation One of the most powerful conversations this week comes from three young women sharing their experiences as survivors of abuse. Their message is clear: speaking out matters. These stories highlight the barriers many victims face, including fear, stigma, and the concern that they won’t be believed. By sharing their experiences, they’re encouraging others to come forward and reminding adults of their role in creating safe environments for children. Organizations like the Child and Youth Advocacy Centre play a critical role by providing support, education, and a safe space for young people to be heard. Community events such as “Get Loud” are also helping raise awareness and create opportunities for these conversations to happen openly. The takeaway is simple but important. Listening, believing, and taking action can make a real difference. McHappy Day Supports Newborn Care at RVH Another feel good initiative is just around the corner. McHappy Day is returning, with efforts focused on supporting newborn care at Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre. Funds raised will help provide resources and support for babies and families, giving newborns the best possible start. It’s another example of how community driven efforts can have a meaningful impact close to home. Stay Connected With What Barrie’s Talking About If you like what you've heard please subscribe to What Barrie's Talking About. You can also keep up with What Barrie's Talking About on Bluesky and X at Barrie 360 on our website Barrie360.com. And there's our Daily Kickstart podcast available from any streaming service and on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you’ve ever spent hours flipping through vinyl or hunting for that one perfect album, this week might feel a little nostalgic. From the return of Record Store Day to local business stories and the start of soccer season, there’s a mix of culture and community happening across Barrie right now. Here’s what Barrie’s talking about this week. Record Store Day Brings Vinyl Culture Back Into Focus Before streaming and playlists, record stores were the place to be. They were more than just shops. They were hangouts. Places where people discovered new music, browsed posters, checked out charts, and spent hours digging through albums. While they’re not as common today, a few local shops are still keeping that culture alive, and they’re getting ready for Record Store Day this Saturday. Record Store Day is a global celebration of independent record stores. It brings exclusive releases, limited edition vinyl, and a renewed buzz to shops that continue to serve music lovers. In Barrie, it’s a chance to support local businesses and reconnect with the experience of physical music. For longtime collectors and new fans alike, it’s one of the biggest days of the year for vinyl culture. Women in Business Spotlight: Dr. Whitney Young The Barrie Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Awards continue to highlight leaders making an impact locally. This week’s spotlight features Whitney Young, who operates a naturopathic practice in the city. Her work focuses on a holistic approach to health, helping patients look at the bigger picture when it comes to wellness. Stories like this offer insight into the people behind local businesses, showing how passion and purpose can shape a career. They also highlight the growing role of alternative and preventative health services within the community. Simcoe County Rovers Ready to Kick Off New Season Soccer season is just around the corner, and excitement is building for the Simcoe County Rovers. The club is preparing to launch its new season, with both players and fans looking ahead to what’s to come. Club leadership says there’s a strong sense of optimism this year, with continued growth in the program and community support behind the teams. For local sports fans, the Rovers offer another way to get out, stay active, and support homegrown talent throughout the season. As kickoff approaches, all eyes will be on how the teams perform and build momentum early on. Stay Connected With What Barrie’s Talking About If you like what you've heard please subscribe to What Barrie's Talking About. You can also keep up with What Barrie's Talking About on Bluesky and X at Barrie 360 on our website Barrie360.com. And there's our Daily Kickstart podcast available from any streaming service and on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s a strong focus on growth and resilience across Barrie and Simcoe County this week. From major investments in affordable housing to lessons learned from last year’s ice storm, several important conversations are happening right now. Add in community discussions around culture and local leadership, and it’s a wide-ranging snapshot of what matters most in the region today. Here’s what Barrie’s talking about this week. Affordable Housing Efforts Gain Momentum in Barrie Affordable housing continues to be a major priority across Barrie and Simcoe County. A significant boost is coming from Redwood Communities, which recently received a million dollar donation aimed at helping fast track new housing projects in the region. The funding is expected to speed up development timelines and increase access to housing for residents who need it most. Meanwhile, Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall says all levels of government are working together to bring more housing to market. Efforts from the city, along with support from provincial and federal partners, are focused on increasing supply and improving affordability. Another group entering the space is Community Builders, led by founder Brandon Day. The organization is taking a different approach to supporting housing initiatives, building on the work already being done in the community. Together, these efforts highlight a growing push to address housing challenges from multiple angles. One Year After the Ice Storm: What Changed? It’s been a year since a major ice storm hit the region, leaving thousands without power and causing widespread damage. For many residents, it was a wake up call about how quickly things can change during extreme weather. Since then, emergency management teams across Simcoe County have been reviewing what happened and identifying ways to improve response efforts. Grant Durfey, head of emergency management for the county, has been part of that process. The focus has been on strengthening procedures, improving communication, and making sure communities are better prepared for future emergencies. The goal is simple: be ready for whatever comes next. Shakespeare: Timeless Work or Difficult History? A local event is taking a closer look at how classic literature is viewed through a modern lens. The focus is on The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare, one of the most well known works in English literature. While the play has long been studied and performed, it also contains themes and portrayals that some view as problematic today, including anti semitic elements. Local Jewish groups are hosting a discussion that explores these issues, looking at how historical works can be both culturally significant and challenging. The conversation is aimed at encouraging learning, reflection, and a deeper understanding of how perspectives evolve over time. Community Builders Expanding Local Impact In addition to Redwood Communities, another organization is stepping up to make a difference. Community Builders, founded by Brandon Day, is working to support housing initiatives in new ways. The organization has roots connected to Redwood but is carving out its own path with a different approach to helping those in need. By focusing on collaboration and innovation, Community Builders is adding another layer to the region’s response to housing challenges. Women in Business Awards Highlight Local Leadership The Barrie Chamber of Commerce Women in Business Awards continue to spotlight individuals making a difference in the community. This ongoing series of interviews gives winners the chance to share their journeys, challenges, and successes. These stories highlight not only personal achievement but also the strength and diversity of Barrie’s business community. They also serve as inspiration for others looking to grow their careers or make an impact locally. Stay Connected With What Barrie’s Talking About If you like what you've heard please subscribe to What Barrie's Talking About. You can also keep up with What Barrie's Talking About on Bluesky and X at Barrie 360 on our website Barrie360.com. And there's our Daily Kickstart podcast available from any streaming service and on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As winter finally starts to fade, many across Barrie and Simcoe County are welcoming the arrival of spring. But while the season is changing, some challenges in the community are still very real. From increasing demand at the Barrie Food Bank to a lineup of local events and initiatives, there’s a lot happening right now. Here’s a closer look at what Barrie’s talking about this week. Winter Wraps Up as Spring Begins The transition from winter to spring is officially underway, and for many, it’s a welcome change. After months of cold temperatures, snow, and shorter days, longer daylight hours and milder weather are on the horizon. It’s also a time when people start to look ahead to what the new season might bring. Spring often signals a reset, both mentally and physically, as the community shifts into a more active and social time of year. Barrie Food Bank Sees Rising Demand The Barrie Food Bank has issued another call for support as demand continues to grow. With food prices still high, more people are finding it difficult to keep up with everyday costs. What’s changing now is who is asking for help. It’s not just individuals without steady income. More working people and families are turning to the food bank to help make ends meet. Organizers say donations are critical right now to ensure shelves remain stocked for those who need assistance. Community support, whether through food donations, financial contributions, or volunteering, plays a key role in helping the food bank meet demand. Muskoka Update Highlights Growth and Activity There’s a lot happening just north of Barrie. Muskoka District Chair Jeff Lehman recently shared an update on activity across the region, pointing to continued growth, development, and community initiatives. From infrastructure projects to economic development, Muskoka remains a busy and evolving area within the broader region. For residents and visitors alike, the updates reflect ongoing changes that continue to shape the area. Chores for Charity Nears the Finish Line A familiar local fundraiser is wrapping up for another year. Rock 95’s McCully has been taking on tasks and odd jobs throughout the month as part of his annual Chores for Charity campaign. The idea is simple. People donate to have chores completed, with proceeds supporting local causes. There are still a few spots left for anyone looking to take part before the campaign wraps up, making this the final chance to get involved this year. Reel Stories Film Festival Returns The Barrie Film Festival’s Reel Stories event is back for its 22nd year. The festival focuses on real-life stories, highlighting fascinating people, places, and experiences from around the world. This year’s lineup includes a wide range of thought-provoking films, including stories connected to well-known figures like Elvis. Reel Stories continues to be a unique cultural event in Barrie, offering audiences a chance to explore different perspectives through film. Soup’s On Event Supports Alzheimer Society Another local event combining community and a good cause is returning soon. Soup’s On is set for March 29 and will support the Alzheimer Society of Simcoe County. The event brings people together to enjoy a variety of soups while raising funds and awareness for Alzheimer’s programs and services in the region. It’s a simple but meaningful way for the community to connect while supporting an important cause. Stay Connected With What Barrie’s Talking About If you like what you've heard please subscribe to What Barrie's Talking About. You can also keep up with What Barrie's Talking About on Bluesky and X at Barrie 360 on our website Barrie360.com. And there's our Daily Kickstart podcast available from any streaming service and on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another week in Barrie means another round of stories that have people talking across the city and across Simcoe County. From the clocks changing this weekend to community initiatives and a chilly charity event, there’s plenty happening locally. Daylight Saving Time Returns This Weekend This weekend marks the return of Daylight Saving Time, which means clocks will move ahead by one hour. While losing an hour of sleep isn’t always popular, the change does bring longer evenings and more daylight after work. Local fire officials say the time change is also a good reminder to check something much more important in your home: your alarms. Barrie firefighters are encouraging residents to take a few minutes while adjusting their clocks to make sure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working properly. That includes checking that alarms have fresh batteries, making sure the devices aren’t older than 10 years, and doing a quick test to confirm the alarm still sounds. County of Simcoe Launches ITSTARTS Campaign The County of Simcoe’s ITSTARTS campaign is underway once again. The initiative focuses on building a more welcoming and inclusive community. Through education and awareness, the campaign encourages people to embrace values such as inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility. The goal is to help residents recognize how everyday actions can help create a stronger and more unified community throughout Simcoe County. The campaign runs throughout the year and includes community outreach, educational resources, and local engagement efforts. Ralphy’s Retreat Animal Sanctuary Needs Volunteers As winter slowly begins to wind down, a local animal sanctuary is asking for some community help. Ralphy’s Retreat Animal Sanctuary in Wyebridge is looking for volunteers this weekend to assist with a few projects around the property. Organizers say they need help clearing leftover snow and working on some maintenance and improvement projects around the sanctuary. Even a few hours of volunteer time can go a long way in helping the team that cares for rescued animals year round. Anyone interested in helping out can contact the sanctuary directly at ralphysanimalsanctuary@gmail.com. The sanctuary is located at 39 Darby Road in Wyebridge. Are You Using Your Green Bin Properly? The County of Simcoe is also encouraging residents to make full use of their green bins. Organic waste programs help reduce the amount of garbage going to landfill, but officials say many households could still be putting more compostable items into their bins. Increasing participation helps extend the life of local landfills and improves waste diversion across the region. Barrie’s Economic Outlook Remains Positive Despite economic uncertainty in some areas, the Barrie Chamber of Commerce says the city is in a good position to weather current challenges. Local leaders point to Barrie’s continued growth, strong business community, and expanding population as reasons for optimism. While inflation and other economic pressures remain a concern across the country, Barrie’s diversified local economy continues to show resilience. Cold Water for a Good Cause at Friday Harbour Finally, dozens of brave participants are expected to jump into icy water this weekend for a good cause. The annual Polar Plunge at Friday Harbour raises funds in support of the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre expansion project. Participants take the plunge into the cold waters of Lake Simcoe while supporters gather along the shore to cheer them on. It’s a fun and memorable event that helps raise money and awareness for improved healthcare services in the region. Stay Connected With What Barrie’s Talking About You can keep up with What Barrie's Talking About on Bluesky and X at Barrie 360, on our website Barrie360.com. And there's our Daily Kickstart podcast available from any streaming service and on our website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to another edition of What Barrie’s Talking About from Barrie 360, your weekly deep dive into the stories shaping our community. This week’s episode covers everything from policing and public safety to arena repairs, affordable housing, and a red-hot Barrie Colts team pushing toward the playoffs. Police Integrity and the Provincial Probe Following corruption charges against several Toronto police officers, the province is launching an inspection focused on police integrity across Ontario. Both Barrie Police Chief Rich Johnston and South Simcoe Police Chief John Van Dyke have publicly endorsed the review. Chief Van Dyke joins the program to discuss what happened in Toronto, why transparency matters, and what this provincial probe could mean for local services. It’s an important conversation about public trust and accountability in policing. Project Lima: Making Barrie’s Streets Safer Barrie Police have launched a new initiative aimed at improving pedestrian, cyclist, and driver safety at busy intersections. Known as Project Lima, the program targets risky driving behaviour, visibility concerns, and overall traffic safety. Barrie 360’s Ian MacLennan speaks with Staff Sergeant Angie Butler and Constable Taylor Collins to break down what the initiative involves and how it aims to make local roads safer for everyone. Stroud Arena and the Kraft Hockeyville Push The Stroud Innisfil Community Centre and Arena needs significant repairs and Innisfil Council has approved $1 million in emergency funding to get the work started. The town is now hoping to recover some of those costs through the Kraft Hockeyville program. Julius Hern speaks with Innisfil Mayor Lynn Dollin and Councillor Kevin Eisses about the arena’s importance to the community and what Hockeyville support could mean for its future. Redwood Park Communities Expands Its Impact Redwood Park Communities continues building momentum in its mission to provide safe, affordable, and hopeful housing. After launching a bond program last year to raise funds for housing projects, Redwood is now seeing additional support from local investors. Tim Kent and Carolina Belmares return to the program to talk about how the bond program is working, why community investment matters, and what comes next. Barrie Colts Keep Rolling Toward the Playoffs The Barrie Colts are heating up at just the right time. Seven straight wins have them sitting just four points back of Brantford for top spot in the Eastern Conference and first overall. Julius Hern catches up with Colts broadcaster Gene Pereira to recap the recent surge and look ahead to what could be a very exciting playoff run. Catch the full conversations on What Barrie’s Talking About, available wherever you get your podcasts and at Barrie360.com. Stay connected with us on Bluesky and X at @Barrie360 and don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review. We’ll see you next week. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome in to another edition of What Barrie’s Talking About from Barrie 360. This week’s episode spans everything from international trade tensions and local policing priorities to Valentine’s Day ideas that go beyond chocolates. Trump Tariff Threats and What They Mean for Canada Trade tensions are flaring up again after Donald Trump threatened 100 per cent tariffs on Canada if Ottawa were to pursue a free-trade deal with China. With Canada-U.S.-Mexico trade talks also looming, the stakes are high but how serious is the threat? Barrie 360’s Ian MacLennan speaks with tariff expert Kyle Peacock, head of Peacock Tariff Consulting in Orillia, to break down what’s political posturing, what’s realistic, and what these warnings could mean for Canada’s economy and local businesses. Inside South Simcoe Police: Budget, Modernization, and the Year Ahead Barrie 360 goes behind the scenes with South Simcoe Police Service, sitting down with the Chief and Deputy Chief to talk about what’s shaping the service this year. The conversation covers budget pressures, modernization efforts, staffing, and how policing is evolving to meet the needs of fast-growing communities. It’s a rare look at how decisions are made behind the badge and what residents can expect moving forward. A Valentine’s Gift with “Shock and Awe” Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and if dinner reservations feel a little predictable, this segment offers a different idea. Ian MacLennan catches up with the Barrie County Chordsmen, a local barbershop quartet led by Brian Tracey, to talk about serenades, surprise performances, and why live harmony can still deliver genuine “shock and awe.” It’s lighthearted, fun, and a reminder that memorable gifts don’t always come in boxes. Listen to the Full Episode You can hear the full episode of What Barrie’s Talking About wherever you get your podcasts or by visiting Barrie360.com. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode, and follow Barrie 360 on Bluesky and X for more local stories that matter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome in to another edition of What Barrie’s Talking About from Barrie 360. With snow and cold still hanging around, this week’s episode looks ahead to warmer days, from baseball season just around the corner to one of the region’s most popular food festivals returning to help take the winter edge off. A New Era for Baycats Baseball Spring might still be a little ways off, but baseball is already on the mind in Barrie. The Intercounty Baseball League is officially no more, having rebranded as the Canadian Baseball League at the end of last season. So what does that mean for the Barrie Baycats? According to Baycats President, GM, and Manager Josh Matlow, it’s nothing but good news. He joins Barrie 360’s Julius Hern to talk about what the league changes bring, how the Baycats fit into the new vision, and what fans can expect when the season gets underway. If you’re counting down to baseball weather, this conversation is a good reminder that it’s closer than it feels. Locallicious Is Back to Warm Things Up If baseball talk isn’t enough to shake the winter blues, this might do it — Locallicious is back starting this weekend. Locallicious gives diners the chance to sample some of the area’s best restaurants with set-price menus, making it one of the most anticipated food events of the year. Organizer Randy Feltis stopped by Kool Mornings with Dale and Charlie to share a preview of what’s on the menu and why reservations tend to fill up fast. For details and reservations, head to locallicious.ca. Listen to the Full Episode That’s this week’s edition of What Barrie’s Talking About — trading snow boots for baseball caps and winter comfort food for full-on foodie season. You can listen to the full episode wherever you get your podcasts or at Barrie360.com. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode, and follow Barrie 360 on Bluesky and X for more local stories that matter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome in to another edition of What Barrie’s Talking About from Barrie 360. This week’s episode is all about the snow! Why we’ve seen so much of it, how much more could be on the way, what it takes to clear it, and how people are really coping as winter drags on. From behind-the-scenes looks at snow removal to advice on beating the winter blues and the latest from the Barrie Colts, these are the conversations happening across the city right now. Why This Winter Feels Different It’s been snowing almost daily, and for many people, this kind of winter feels unfamiliar. Barrie 360’s Dan Blakeley connects with climatologist David Phillips to talk about why this season has delivered so much snow in such a short time. Phillips explains what’s driving the pattern, why recent winters may have made this one feel more extreme, and whether there’s relief on the horizon. It’s a grounded look at what’s happening — and what residents can realistically expect as winter continues. Inside Barrie’s Snow-Clearing Operation With snowbanks piling up and storage space running out, frustration has been growing around plowing, sidewalks, and windrows. It’s been a tough stretch for snow crews trying to keep up. Barrie 360’s Ian MacLennan goes behind the scenes with Barrie’s Director of Operations, Dave Friary, to get a clearer picture of what plow crews are dealing with, how priorities are set, and why clearing the city during a winter like this is far more complicated than it looks from the curb. Coping with the Winter Blahs Beyond the shovelling and slippery roads, winter can take a real toll mentally. This year, many people are feeling the February blahs earlier than usual. Ian MacLennan speaks with Dr. Genevieve Monaghan, a psychologist with Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, about how prolonged winter weather can affect mood and motivation. She shares practical advice on how to get through the rest of the season and when it might be time to reach out for extra support. Changes Coming for the Barrie Colts On the ice, there’s movement with the Barrie Colts. A couple of new faces are expected to join the lineup as the team prepares for the weekend ahead. Barrie 360’s Julius Hern checks in with Colts broadcaster Gene Pereira to break down what the changes could mean and how the team is shaping up as the season continues. Listen to the Full Episode You can hear the full episode of What Barrie’s Talking About wherever you get your podcasts or by visiting Barrie360.com. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode, and follow Barrie 360 on Bluesky and X for more local stories and updates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome in to another edition of What Barrie’s Talking About from Barrie 360. With winter officially arriving Sunday morning, this week’s episode looks at what’s ahead for the season — from the forecast to the pressures many feel during the holidays. We’ll talk food insecurity in Barrie, fire and carbon monoxide safety, mental health resources, the Barrie Colts’ hot streak, and a local business owner’s behind-the-scenes experience on Dragon’s Den. Winter Arrives and It’s Already Making Its Presence Felt Snow has been falling steadily since the beginning of December, and winter hasn’t even officially started yet. That changes Sunday morning, when the calendar finally flips from fall to winter. Climatologist David Phillips joins the show to talk about what the rest of the season may hold. While we’re usually asking whether a white Christmas is on the way, that question doesn’t seem necessary this year. Phillips explains what’s driving the weather so far and what residents should realistically expect in the weeks ahead. Food Bank Use Rising in Barrie The holiday season is meant to be joyful, but for many families, it’s becoming increasingly difficult. Food bank use is rising across the country, and Barrie is no exception. Barrie 360’s Ian Maclennan speaks with Karen Shuh, Executive Director of the Barrie Food Bank, about the local reality. She shares who is relying on food bank support, why demand is growing, and how the community can help. It’s a sobering reminder that food insecurity can affect anyone — often in ways people don’t expect. Those able to help can make cash donations at barriefoodbank.org, while food donations can be dropped off at most local grocery stores. Holiday Fire Safety and Carbon Monoxide Awareness The holidays also bring an increased risk of house fires and carbon monoxide exposure. Decorations, candles, space heaters, and fireplaces all add to the danger this time of year. This week’s episode looks at fire safety during the holidays and why a carbon monoxide alarm may actually be a better gift than some of the fire-extinguishing products being heavily advertised right now. It’s practical advice that could make a life-saving difference. When the Holidays Don’t Feel Merry While the season is filled with lights and celebrations, it can also bring stress, loneliness, grief, and financial strain. Not everyone experiences the holidays the same way — and that’s okay. Ian Maclennan speaks with Dr. Carolyn Houlding, a psychologist at Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, about the emotional toll the season can take. She talks about recognizing when the holidays are becoming overwhelming and reminds listeners that support is available. A list of mental health resources and phone numbers for anyone needing help during the holidays is available at Barrie360.com. Colts Keep Rolling at the Top of the Division On the ice, things are looking bright for the Barrie Colts. The team has won five straight games and nine of their last ten, maintaining their spot at the top of the OHL Central Division with a comfortable lead over North Bay. Barrie 360’s Julius Hern checks in with Colts analyst Gene Pereira for a breakdown of what’s clicking, how the team is finding consistency, and what lies ahead. Barrie Entrepreneur Steps Into the Dragon’s Den Local entrepreneur Dawn Mucci recently took her business, Lice Squad, into the Dragon’s Den. While she can’t yet reveal whether the Dragons jumped on board — the episode won’t air until the new year — she shares some entertaining behind-the-scenes stories about the experience and what it was like pitching on national television. It’s a reminder that big opportunities can start right here at home. Listen to the Full Episode You can hear the full episode of What Barrie’s Talking About wherever you get your podcasts or by visiting Barrie360.com. Be sure to subscribe so you don’t miss an episode, and follow Barrie 360 on Bluesky and X for the latest local stories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to What Barrie’s Talking About, the weekly podcast that brings you the local stories, conversations, and insights shaping our community. This episode explores a major lifestyle shift many people are dreaming about, the financial surprises new homebuyers need to know, and how the Barrie Colts are holding their spot at the top of the division. Leaving the Rat Race: What Homesteading Really Looks Like Feeling burned out by city life? You’re not alone. More and more people are ditching the rush, noise, and stress and embracing homesteading — a back-to-the-land lifestyle focused on self-sufficiency. This week, Aly Nickling Riddle joins the show to share how she and her husband made the leap to a quieter, hands-on life in Mattawa. She talks about what homesteading actually means, what the day-to-day looks like, and why so many are craving this slower, more intentional way of living. If you’ve ever fantasized about more space, more nature, or more peace, you’ll want to hear this one. The Hidden Costs of Buying a Home Buying a home isn’t just a mortgage and a down payment — and many Canadians are learning that the hard way. A new survey from Ownright, a Toronto-based digital real estate law platform, reveals that many first-time homebuyers are blindsided by the less obvious costs of ownership. From legal fees to inspections to closing costs and everything in between, the fine print can pack a punch. Ian MacLennan sits down with Ownright CEO Robert Saunders to break down what buyers need to know before signing on the dotted line — and how better financial literacy could save people from big surprises. Colts Still Leading the Central Division The Barrie Colts split their games last weekend but remain firmly in first place in the OHL Central Division — four points ahead of North Bay. Barrie 360’s Julius Hern catches up with analyst Gene Pereira to break down the week, talk standout performances, and look ahead at what’s next for the division leaders. Listen to the Full Episode Hear all the conversations now on What Barrie’s Talking About, available on your favourite podcast platform or at Barrie360.com. Be sure to subscribe, rate, and review, and follow Barrie 360 on Bluesky and X for even more local stories. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Another week, another batch of stories shaping life in our city. What Barrie’s Talking About is back with fresh conversations, community updates, and a few things you’ll definitely want on your radar. Here’s what we’re diving into this week: Jennifer Jones: Life On (and Off) the Ice She’s one of the greatest curlers this country has ever produced — Olympic gold, world champion, and an all-around Canadian icon. Jennifer Jones has now settled into life here in Simcoe County, but her story is far from slowing down. She’s been touring with her new book Rock Star: My Life On and Off the Ice, and she took some time to chat with Barrie 360’s Julius Hern. From career-defining moments to the rhythm of family life today, this segment gives curlers and casual sports fans alike something to love. A New Library for Northwest Barrie Big news for book lovers — and honestly, for anyone who just wants more great community space. A brand new Barrie Public Library branch is headed to Leacock Plaza in the city’s northwest corner. CEO Lauren Jessop joined Ian Maclennan to talk about why this branch is needed, what services it’ll bring, and how it fits into the city’s growing north end. If you live anywhere near Leacock, this is a game changer. The Shoebox Project: Small Gifts, Big Impact The holiday season brings out dozens of donation drives — but The Shoebox Project has always stood out for its personal, heartfelt touch. Samira Rashidian Zada and Shannon Muree joined Dan Blakeley to talk about how the project supports women, girls, two-spirit and gender-diverse individuals in need across Simcoe County. They break down how the shoeboxes are put together, who they help, and what items make the biggest difference. It’s one of the easiest, most meaningful ways to give locally this season. Colts Heat Up After Slow Start Look who’s back on top. After a shaky start to the season, the Barrie Colts have charged their way to first place in the Central Division. Julius Hern and Colts analyst Gene Pereira return for their weekly roundup — the highs, the highlights, and a look at what’s ahead. If you’re following the home team, this is the segment to catch. Catch the Full Episode You can listen to the full episode of What Barrie’s Talking About on any major streaming platform or at Barrie360.com. Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review — it helps more people in our community discover the stories that matter. Be sure to follow Barrie 360 on Bluesky and X for more local updates, and check out our Daily Kickstart podcast for your weekday news hit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We are forever grateful to the men and women of our armed forces who have made the ultimate sacrifice so that we may live. To all those who have served and who are currently serving, thank you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices