In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with Julie Schryer and Pat O’Gorman, the Founders and Artistic Directors of AlgomaTrad and the recipients of the 2024 Estelle Klein Community Builder Award.

Hear about their incredible work with AlgomaTrad and its journey from a small initiative to a thriving community, built through the sharing, learning, and celebration of music, dance, art, and heritage craft traditions.

They reflect on the importance of belonging and how it strengthens community bonds, and the role that folk music plays in connecting people and preserving traditions. They also discuss their exciting plans for developing their new AlgomaTrad music centre on St. Joseph Island.

Find AlgomaTrad online
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About Julie Schryer and Pat O’Gorman

Julie Schryer grew up in a Franco-Ontarian home that was filled with traditional music and song. She began playing piano in 1972. During her youth she played for hundreds of fiddle players at competitions and events throughout Ontario and Canada, often with her four fiddling brothers. Julie recorded and toured with the Pierre Schryer Band, the Brian Pickell Band and her family band The O’Schraves. Julie is a co-founder and Artistic Co-Director of AlgomaTrad, a rural Northern Ontario organization that builds community through the sharing and celebration of music, dance, art, and heritage craft traditions. Since 2004, AlgomaTrad has produced over 400 programs and events, including community dances, concerts, workshops, festivals, and its annual Family Camp, while hosting over 300 nationally and internationally renowned performers, artists, and mentors. AlgomaTrad is currently developing the year-round, environmentally-sustainable AlgomaTrad Centre on St. Joseph Island.

Pat O’Gorman began playing bagpipes 57 years ago in the Ontario Highland Piping scene and has studied traditional music in Ireland, Brittany and Cape Breton. He has been playing traditional wooden concert (Irish) flute for 42 years and plays Irish Uilleann pipes and whistles as well. Pat has been at the cutting edge of Canadian Trad/Celtic music for 54 years with Na Cabarfeidh, Rare Air, Morgaine Le Fay, The Windbags, The Brian Pickell Band and his family group, The O’Schraves. Pat co-founder and Artistic Co-Director of AlgomaTrad.

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Join us in celebrating the finest in folk music at the Folk Music Ontario Conference this October 2nd-6th, plus don’t miss the Ontario Folk Music Awards, recognizing the best talent in our vibrant community. Register today at folkmusicontario.ca and use promocode REFOLKUS20 for 20% off registration and awards tickets. See you there!

Tune in to the latest episodes of the ReFolkUs Podcast, featuring the latest releases from Folk Music Ontario members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1.

Presented by Folk Music Ontario

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with Kaeley Jade.

We dive into her incredible journey from gigging at just 9 years old to becoming a recording and performing artist. She reflects on how attending industry conferences opened her eyes to the business side of music, shaping her path as an independent, DIY artist.

Kaeley also takes us behind the scenes of her work in theatre, including writing the music for the award-winning Two Headed/Half-Hearted musical. As a multidisciplinary artist, Kaeley emphasizes the importance of practicing various art forms and having hobbies outside of music to enhance both your artistic career and creative process, staying refreshed and avoiding burnout.

Find Kaeley Jade online
Instagram
Facebook
TikTok
Website

About Kaeley Jade

Kaeley Jade is an award-winning Métis and Settler singer/songwriter, actor, and multidisciplinary artist based in Edmonton, Alberta (amiskwaciwâskahikan). Blending lush imagery and hooky melodic lines to create her own brand of pop-forward indie folk music, Kaeley has performed at venues and festivals across Canada, including the Edmonton Folk Music Festival, JUNOfest, Folk Music Ontario, the Canmore Folk Music Festival, and Coldsnap. Kaeley moves between ballads and bops with ease, and she brings an electricity to the stage whether she is playing an intimate acoustic set or playing alongside her full five-piece band. Kaeley’s deep involvement within the music, theatre and film ecosystems have presented her many opportunities to weave her disciplines together; in 2022, Kaeley joined forces with award-winning playwright Trevor Schmidt to create the critically acclaimed country-folk musical Two-Headed/Half-Hearted, which premiered at Northern Light Theatre with Kaeley in the role of “Venus”. Her music has received radio play across the globe, has been reviewed by publications worldwide, and has been featured in several film and television productions. Her vibrant debut full-length album, Turpentine, has earned her significant recognition in the Canadian music scene—she is a Canadian Folk Music Award Winner and 3x Nominee, Western Canadian Music Award Nominee, Summer Solstice Indigenous Music Award Winner and 3x Nominee, SOCAN Indigenous Songwriter Awards Finalist, and 2023 Henry Armstrong Award Recipient.

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Join us in celebrating the finest in folk music at the Folk Music Ontario Conference this October 2nd-6th, plus don’t miss the Ontario Folk Music Awards, recognizing the best talent in our vibrant community. Register today at folkmusicontario.ca and use promocode REFOLKUS20 for 20% off registration and awards tickets. See you there!

Tune in to the latest episodes of the ReFolkUs Podcast, featuring the latest releases from Folk Music Ontario members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1.

Presented by Folk Music Ontario

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with Jorge Requena Ramos, Artistic Director of the West End Cultural Centre (WECC).

Jorge takes us through the rich history and community impact of the WECC as a key venue for music and culture, hosting diverse performances and fostering connections through the arts. Jorge also discusses the WECC’s strong commitment to anti-racism and anti-oppression, which is woven into their organizational strategy.

He also dives into his work as a performing artist with his band, The Mariachi Ghost, who summon the ghosts of old Mexico through traditional Mexican song.

Sign up to the WECC newsletter here.

Find West End Cultural Centre online:
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Website

Find The Mariachi Ghost online:

Instagram

Facebook
Website

About Jorge Requena Ramos

Jorge Requena Ramos is a multi-disciplinary artist who grew up in Mexico City and now calls Winnipeg Manitoba his home. He has done extensive work as a film director, playwright and television producer. He became the Artistic director of the WECC in 2019 after spending a decade amongst performers, travelling across Canada, the US and Europe with his band “The Mariachi Ghost”. In his tender at the WECC he has overseen the development and growth of Winterruption a festival that celebrates life in a winter city at -40 below. He has also helped the WECC transition into an Anti-racist, Anti-Oppressive strategic plan that will see their programming and practices reflect the truly diverse fabric of Canada.

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Join us in celebrating the finest in folk music at the Folk Music Ontario Conference this October 2nd-6th, plus don’t miss the Ontario Folk Music Awards, recognizing the best talent in our vibrant community. Register today at folkmusicontario.ca and use promocode REFOLKUS20 for 20% off registration and awards tickets. See you there!

Tune in to the latest episodes of the ReFolkUs Podcast, featuring the latest releases from Folk Music Ontario members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1.

Presented by Folk Music Ontario

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with singer-songwriter Begonia.

Begonia shares her unique approach to songwriting, revealing the inspiration behind her lyrics and how she translates her emotions into music. She also offers insights about how she nurtures her creativity both on and off the road and explains the routines and practices that keep her inspired, even amidst the demands of touring and the pressures of the music industry. She talks about the importance of setting boundaries, and how she protects her well-being while continuing to push the boundaries of her art.

Begonia also discusses the inspiration behind her aesthetic choices, and how her visual artistry complements and enhances her music.

Find Begonia online:
Instagram

TikTok

Facebook
Website

About Begonia

Pegged as Canada’s breakout alt-diva, Begonia has built a legion of fans online and at her legendary live shows. Her critically acclaimed discography includes Lady In Mind EP (2017), Fear (2019) and Powder Blue (2023). Among her accolades, she has two JUNO nominations (2021, 2024, Adult Alternative Album of the Year), two Polaris Prize nominations, multiple #1 songs on CBC Radio, and was named one of NPR’s Artists You Need to Know. Her sophomore album, Powder Blue emerged in early 2023 and confronts themes of sexuality, self-discovery, acceptance and empowerment. The album was named one of CBC Music’s Best Canadian Albums of 2023 (#7) and was shortlisted for the 2023 Polaris Music Prize. Begonia’s live performance is world class. She has been playing sold out clubs and theatres in North America, and recently supported indie-all-star, Leith Ross, on their European tour. Her vocal prowess has the power to absolutely floor an audience, evidenced at her Polaris Gala performance. Riding a wave of momentum with a record number of people discovering Powder Blue, Begonia’s upcoming EP, Open Swim, was released July 17, 2024 via Birthday Cake Records. Co-written and produced by Alexa Dirks and Marcus Paquin (The National, The Weather Station, Arcade Fire) along with contributions from her frequent collaborators and producer duo, deadmen, the EP is a project that “encompasses the feeling of working through conflict and the elation that can surface when you’re honest with others and ultimately yourself.

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Tune in to the latest episodes of the ReFolkUs Podcast, featuring the latest releases from Folk Music Ontario members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1.

Presented by Folk Music Ontario

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with Robyn Stewart, the Executive Director of Women in Music Canada.

Robyn delves into the crucial topics of equity within the music industry, providing a thoughtful analysis of the current landscape and sharing her views on both the importance of creating inclusive spaces for all, and the various ways to overcome barriers.

Robyn also discusses the significant research study ‘’Share the Air: A Study of Gender Representation on Canadian Radio (2013 - 2023)’’ that sheds light on representation across all radio formats and the role radio plays in shaping gender representation and diversity within the music industry.

In addition, Robyn shares valuable information about Women in Music Canada and the programs they offer for both artists and industry workers.

Read ‘‘Share the Air: A Study of Gender Representation on Canadian Radio (2013 - 2023)’’ research study here.

Join the Women in Music Canada Directory and receive the latest news, updates and event information.

Check out ‘’Balancing Act’’, a national initiative that aims to increase equality, accessibility, and employment opportunities in Canada for artists and cultural workers with caring responsibilities.

Find Women in Music Canada online:
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Facebook
Website

About Robyn Stewart

Robyn Stewart is a 22-year music industry veteran, accomplished organization and event director, currently the Executive Director of Women in Music Canada. Robyn is passionate about the creative process and the role culture plays in communities. Her experience reaches all areas of event management and talent buying, with her strongest skills lying in financial management, complex logistics, government relations and fund development, and partner relationship building. She has worked with budgets in excess of $3 million, always meeting and exceeding the expectations of clients and colleagues. Among the projects she is most proud of; Executive Director of Western Canadian Music Alliance, and Entertainment Buyer; PanAmerican Games 2015, and Vancouver Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games 2010, which allowed her to support developing artists and engage in passion projects including working towards gender parity in the music industry on an international level. Robyn is incredibly driven by her work supporting artists to showcase and develop business in international markets, and has spoken at events in Estonia, Sweden, Australia, UK and more. Robyn holds board positions on the Polaris Music Prize (National Vice-Chair), and Heart and Stroke Foundation (Manitoba).

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Tune in to the latest episodes of the ReFolkUs Podcast, featuring the latest releases from Folk Music Ontario members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1.

Presented by Folk Music Ontario

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with David Landreth, Co-Founder and COO of Birthday Cake Records, a Winnipeg-based record label, music publishing, and artist management company.

David shares the story behind Birthday Cake Records and how the label came to be. He discusses the labels unique approach to discovering and signing new artists and how they work with those artists to dial in their vision in preparation for an album release. For artists on the hunt for a label, David also offers invaluable advice on what to consider, emphasizing the significance of finding a label with a culture that matches your own values and goals. Additionally, he breaks down the essentials of artist/label contracts, touching on key aspects like advancements, and royalties.

Find Birthday Cake Records online:
Instagram
Website

About David Landreth

Dave Landreth is one half of prairie roots rockers, The Bros. Landreth. They're two-time JUNO winners and Grammy-winning songwriters — their song, Made Up Mind, was covered by Bonnie Raitt in 2022, going on to spend 12 weeks at #1 on the Americana charts and taking the Grammy for Best Americana Performance in 2023. They've toured extensively from 2013 and are currently working on their fourth album, due sometime in 2025. Together with his brother Joe and manager Stu Anderson, Dave founded Birthday Cake Records, a Winnipeg-based record label, music publishing, and artist management company. Birthday Cake collaborates with a diverse range of talented artists, including Begonia, Leith Ross, Field Guide, The Be Good Tanyas, and lots more!

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Tune in to the latest episodes of the ReFolkUs Podcast, featuring the latest releases from Folk Music Ontario members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1.

Presented by Folk Music Ontario

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with Amie Therrien, the Executive Director of Music Managers Forum Canada (MMF Canada).

In this episode, Amie shares her journey as a music manager, exploring what drew her to the profession and the unique challenges it entails. She delves into the key roles and responsibilities of a manager, offering insights into commission structures, contracts, and how to effectively support artists with their music careers. Amie also highlights the invaluable resources provided by MMF Canada, which assist both managers and self-managed artists.

Become a member of MMF Canada and visit the free resources page and the curated Industry News Round-Up.

Find MMF Canada online:
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter
YouTube
Website

About Amie Therrien

As the Executive Director of MMF Canada, Amie Therrien leads the team that supports managers and self-managed artists with professional development, mentorship, and networking opportunities as well as advocating on their behalf to the government and the community at large. Prior to MMF Canada, Amie was the owner of Balsam Pier Music, an artist management and development company where she worked primarily with folk, roots, and Americana artists. She has worked for Coalition Music and Folk Alliance International, has served on the boards of Folk Music Ontario and MMF Canada, and is an alumna of the Artist Manager Program with Canada's Music Incubator. Amie is a Métis woman based in Toronto, a part-time runner, a kayaker, a meditator, a beading artist, and a recovering civil engineer.

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Tune in to the latest episodes of the ReFolkUs Podcast, featuring the latest releases from Folk Music Ontario members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1.

Presented by Folk Music Ontario

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn

In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with Leonard Podolak, the Co-Artistic/Executive Director of Home Routes/Chemin Chez Nous, Canada’s pioneering house concert circuit.

In this episode, Leonard delves into the origins of Home Routes, sharing how the concept came to life. He explores the unique charm of house concerts, highlighting their ability to provide artists with intimate access to audiences and how they bring incredible music to culturally underserved communities. Leonard also gives us a glimpse into what it's like to host a show through Home Routes as well as the experience from the artist's perspective. Additionally, he discusses the organization's pivot during the pandemic and what is on the horizon for the future of Home Routes.

Interested in hosting a show through Home Routes? Fill out the form here.
Apply to perform on a Home Routes tour here.

Find Home Routes/Chemin Chez Nous online:

Instagram

Website

About Leonard Podolak

Leonard Podolak has been working in the folk music business since 1995. With his bands, Scruj MacDuhk and The Duhks, he is a 5 time Juno and 2 time Grammy nominee, taking home each trophy once. He is known for his melodic but very rhythmic style of playing clawhammer banjo. Since 2016 he has been the Co-Executive Director of Home Routes/Chemin Chez Nous, Canada’s pioneering House Concert Circuit. This organization is a part of a group of Organizations founded by his parents, the late Mitch Podolak and Ava Kobrinsky. These include The West End Cultural Centre, The Winnipeg International Children’s Festival, and the Folk Festivals in Winnipeg, Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, and The Stan Rogers Folk Festival in Canso NS. Leonard along with Co-ED/AD Cathy Crawford, who is also the operations manager of the mission folk festival are bringing new energy with the aim of taking Home Routes out of the woodwork and into the mainstream.

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Tune in to the latest episodes of the ReFolkUs Podcast, featuring the latest releases from Folk Music Ontario members as well as some of our special guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1.

Presented by Folk Music Ontario

Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett

Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett

Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin

Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac

Artwork by Jaymie Karn