Refolkus

In this episode we chat with Chris Frayer, the Artistic Director of Winnipeg Folk Festival. We get into the evolution of the Winnipeg Folk Festival and what it takes to build a lasting music festival. Chris also shares insights from his decades in the industry, including how he approaches artist booking, balancing emerging and established artists, and creating meaningful experiences for audiences....

In this episode we chat with the Artistic Co-Director of Sunfest, Mercedes Caxaj. Mercedes takes us behind-the-scenes of creating a diverse and internationally focused music festival. She shares the story of how Sunfest began, how they bring artists from around the world to the stage, and the work involved in producing a free-admission festival. We also discuss how representation and community eng...

In this episode, we chat with Mick Janzen of the folk trio The Janzen Boys. Mick shares his journey from busking to full-time touring, and dives into the DIY digital marketing strategies he uses to build his audience, drive ticket sales, and strengthen direct connections with fans. He breaks down how independent artists can use social media, targeted advertising, and online tools to grow their rea...

In this episode, we sit down with booking agent Nicole Rochefort of AIM Booking Agency. We discuss the artist-agent relationship, what agents look for when signing new clients, the importance of community and networking, and why artists need to think like entrepreneurs. Nicole also shares practical advice on self-promotion, audience development, balancing life on the road, and creating a long-term...

In this episode, we chat to acclaimed Canadian artist, AHI. We discuss the power of storytelling in folk music and how personal experiences shape the songs we connect with most deeply. We also touch on AHI’s journey as an artist, the role of vulnerability in songwriting, and how he’s learned to channel criticism into creativity and growth throughout his career. Be sure to catch AHI live on his upc...

In this episode, we sit down with Grammy-nominated, two-time Juno winner, fiddler Natalie McMaster. Natalie chats about her journey from growing up in Cape Breton’s rich musical traditions to building an internationally celebrated music career. We discuss the role of love, family, and community in shaping her life and artistry, the decision to bring her children into her performances, and the impo...

In this week’s episode, we chat to Toronto-based folk roots singer-songwriter Shawna Caspi. We delve into the realities of touring in today’s music industry and how artists can build more sustainable touring practices. We also get into frugal touring tips, navigating rising travel costs, finding creative ways to save money on the road, and the importance of community, authenticity, and artist well...

In this week’s episode, we chat to Ellorie McKnight, a climate researcher and indie folk artist. We get into her journey as an artist and how she approaches songwriting as a way to explore both personal and collective experiences. We also dive into her climate work, and how it informs her artistry, using music as a way to invite reflection, connection, and engagement. It’s a thoughtful conversatio...

In this week’s episode, we’re joined by Mimi O’Bonsawin for a conversation that moves between life on the road and the deeper connections that shape her work as an artist. We get into her relationship to land and gardening, and how that feeds into her creativity and helps her stay grounded while navigating a demanding touring schedule. Mimi also shares what it’s like managing celiac disease on tou...

In this week's episode, we chat to Mark Steiner, founder of GigSalad. We get into his path through the music industry, from working as a booking agent to creating GigSalad. Drawing from his experience on the booking side, Mark shares insight into how talent gets matched with opportunities, what bookers are really looking for, and what actually makes artists stand out when it comes to getting booke...

In this episode, we dive into a grounded conversation with Guatemalan singer-songwriter Paula Sofía, exploring how she balances her work as both a performing artist and a leader in the arts. We get into what it really means to connect with an audience—how storytelling, vulnerability, and intimacy can turn a performance into something that truly resonates. Paula shares her perspective on songwritin...

In this episode, we sit down with Lisa La Rocca, a dynamic leader in the Canadian music scene, to explore her career across music, event production, and community building. From her early days as an intern to becoming an influential festival organizer and industry advocate, Lisa shares her journey and how she’s carved out her path. This episode is also filled with practical tips for emerging artis...

Welcome back to the fifth season of Refolkus. In this week's episode, we chat with artist Daniel Lew about how a life-changing hearing loss at 13 reshaped his relationship with music. He discusses his nonlinear approach to songwriting and recording, how self-help literature has influenced his creative mindset, and the ways he’s adapted his live performance to work with his physical limitations. It...

In this week's episode, Rosalyn chats with Jennifer Roe, the Executive Director of Folk Alliance International. They talk in depth about the organization's initiatives, including the Folk+ event and the annual Folk Alliance International Conference. The conversation highlights how conferences serve as vital spaces for networking and mutual support, reinforcing the strength and interconnectedness o...

In this week’s episode, Rosalyn chats with Andrew Karis, Associate Director of ACTRA RACS. Andrew discusses ACTRA RACS’s role in the music industry, the intricacies of neighboring rights, how streaming has reshaped the landscape and the importance of fair compensation for recording artists. The conversation also highlights advocacy efforts with the Burst Their Bubble campaign, aimed at addressing...

In this week’s episode, Rosalyn speaks with Troy Greencorn about the growing impact of climate change on music festivals, with a focus on the Stan Rogers Folk Festival. Troy shares firsthand accounts of extreme weather disrupting festival operations and reflects on the urgent need for resilience and adaptation in the face of these challenges. He underscores the vital role of community support in s...

In this week’s episode, Rosalyn chats with music publicist Beth Cavanagh about the evolving world of music publicity. They dive into what makes an artist bio stand out, how to build strong media and fan relationships, and why realistic goals and patience are essential for long-term success. Beth also shares actionable tips for artists looking to promote themselves more effectively and insight into...

This week, Rosalyn chats with Mohawk folk and soul artist Logan Staats. Logan reflects on some of the pivotal moments that have shaped his career, as well as his transformative time spent in Nashville, where he focused on writing new songs and honing his craft. He shares how sobriety, family, and a deep-rooted connection to his community help keep him grounded. Plus, he offers a glimpse of what’s...

In this week’s episode, Rosalyn is joined by Tamara Lindeman of The Weather Station. Tamara reflects on how climate grief has shaped her music, a theme that emerged with her previous album Ignorance . She discusses her latest record, Humanhood , which explores themes of personal disconnection and healing, while continuing to resonate with the emotional weight of climate grief and broader political...

In this week’s episode, Rosalyn chats with Devin Latimer, an organic chemist specializing in green chemistry and the Artistic Director of Trout Forest Music Festival. They explore how community festivals can become powerful tools for climate action in that they offer unique opportunities to engage the public, spark dialogue, and promote environmental awareness. They also discuss the need for stron...

In this week's episode, Rosalyn catches up with Acadian singer-songwriter Lisa LeBlanc for a fun and wide-ranging conversation about what it means to put on a truly compelling show. They talk about Lisa’s bold performance style and aesthetic, her recent collaboration with an artistic director to create visually striking live shows, and how pushing creative boundaries keeps things fresh. Lisa also...

In this week's episode, Rosalyn chats with multi-talented artist Tommyphyll. They discuss his journey as an Afrobeats innovator and his signature fusion of sounds, which he calls Afrodiem . Tommyphyll shares insights into his creative process and the importance of connecting with his audience online — emphasizing quality content as a driver of social media and audience growth. He also reflects on...

*WARNING: This episode touches on themes of mental health struggles and sexual assault. If these are sensitive subjects to you, please listen with care* In this week's episode, Rosalyn chats with Jessica Pearson as she reflects on the whirlwind that followed her unexpected moment of viral fame and the emotional fallout that came with it. They explore the double-edged sword of virality, the toll it...

In this week's episode, Rosalyn chats with Joel Plaskett. Joel takes us deep into the making of his latest album, ‘ One Real Reveal ’ released in 2024. Drawing from his long and varied career in music, he opens up about the creative journey behind making this record — from songwriting and theme development to the hands-on process of analog recording. Joel shares why analog matters to him, both tec...

In this week's episode, we chat with Elizabeth Rodriguez of OKAN. Elizabeth reflects on the profound impact of her African ancestry on their music and takes us through her journey from classical music to rediscovering her roots in Cuban music and improvisation. She talks about the role of music in driving social change and how her personal experiences inspire her songwriting. Elizabeth also opens...