Imagine if three simple words could help first responders find you faster in an emergency. That’s exactly what this episode is all about — how the what3words app is making that possible. Acting Fire Chief Matt Richardson and Michael Atkins, fire prevention officer, from Welland Fire and Emergency Services (WFES) are back to explain how this innovative, user-friendly tool divides the world into 3-by-3 metre squares and assigns each with a unique three-word address. This is a game-changer when ...

When members of the City’s Corporate Leadership Team attend professional conferences, they’re building connections, gaining new ideas, and showcasing the innovation happening right here in Welland. In this episode, Tara Stephens, director of legislative services and city clerk, and Marc MacDonald, chief communications & engagement officer, reflect on their recent experiences at the AMCTO and CPRS Elevate conferences. Tara shares takeaways from her presentation on strengthening municipal p...

Summer is here, and with it comes backyard barbecues, open air fires, time on the water—and a few seasonal safety reminders. Joining us today are Matt Richardson, Deputy Fire Chief, and Michael Atkins, Fire Prevention Officer with Welland Fire and Emergency Services. They’re here to share simple, practical tips to help keep your summer safe. You can catch all past episodes and leave us comments at www.welland.ca/podcast/

We’re dishing out the details on one of the city’s tastiest seasonal activities: the Welland Supper Market. Join Tori Royer as she walks us through what makes the Supper Market such a staple of summer—think delicious food, live entertainment, and a lively atmosphere. You’ll hear what to expect this year, plus where to find updates on vendors, entertainers, and more. Hint, it’s here: www.welland.ca/Events/eventsinfo/suppermarket.asp Keep listing as Fraser Mowat shares a look at the bigge...

What happens when City staff come together not just to serve the community but to support it in meaningful, hands-on ways? You get the Community Support Team. In this episode, Janet Ferland, Adam Beres, and James Cronshaw are sharing how this staff-led group has grown from supporting a single cause to championing dozens of local initiatives. From food drives and fundraising barbecues to mitten trees and period product campaigns, this team is a behind-the-scenes force for good in Welland. We’r...

What happens when you mix sunshine, sneakers, and a whole lot of self-esteem? You get Welland Girls Sports Day—a confidence-boosting celebration of movement, mentorship, and trying something new. With this episode, we’re taking to the courts and fields at Empire Sportsplex to hear directly from the girls getting in the game, a proud parent cheering from the sidelines, volunteer coaches guiding the fun, and representatives from Canadian Tire Jumpstart Charities and the City of Welland. Togethe...

Get ready for a celebration of confidence, community, and girl power! Welland Girls Sports Day is almost here, and we’re diving into what makes this event such an exciting and meaningful experience for young athletes in our city. Joining us are two champions of youth engagement—Michele O’Keefe, senior director of athletics and student engagement at Niagara College, and Tori Royer, recreation coordinator with the City of Welland. They share how this high-energy day came to life, what’s in stor...

Get ready to mark your calendars and sway to the beat—Concerts on the Canal is back, and this year’s series promises unforgettable nights of live music, local talent, and canal-side vibes. In this episode, Aaron Berger, recreation coordinator, is here to talk all things Concerts on the Canal. From how this award-winning series came together to what’s new in 2025, Aaron shares the behind-the-scenes stories of curating a season that will bring people together at one of Welland’s most scenic ven...

What do freedom seekers, hidden routes, and local history have in common? They all converge in a powerful new exhibit at the Welland Museum that explores the legacy of the Underground Railroad. We sit down with Lisa Mooney, executive director, and Emily Hodgson, curator at the museum, to uncover the role the Underground Railroad played in Canadian history—and how Welland fits into that story. From artifacts and documents to personal stories of courage, Lisa and Emily share how the museum is p...

After a little more than a year of settling in, learning the ropes, and making an impact, Jessica Ruddell, director of community services, returns to reflect on her experiences since joining Team Welland. From standout accomplishments across the Community Services department to identifying where change can make a difference—and embracing opportunities to be efficient and innovative—Jessica shares what she’s proud of, what she and her team have learned, and what they’re excited to tackle next....