Bring Back The Porch

In the latest episode of Bring Back the Porch, host Brian welcomes Nadine Niba, who shares her incredible journey from Cameroon to Canada with nothing but a suitcase, a hundred dollars, and a dream. Nadine’s story is a testament to resilience and the true meaning of the American dream, filled with challenges, triumphs, and valuable lessons for anyone pursuing their goals. Nadine’s journey began wi...

🎶 What makes a winter folk festival last 20 years? Join us as we talk to Rob Pape, Executive & Artistic Director of the Tongue on the Post Folk Music Festival in Medicine Hat, Alberta. This festival has become a hallmark of winter entertainment, bringing together musicians and music lovers alike — even during tough times like the pandemic. From its founding vision to adapting to challenges li...

Small businesses in Medicine Hat are facing rising electricity bills — but is the system fair? In this conversation, Brian sits down with local business owner Michael Reid to break down how electricity classification and demand charges are impacting small businesses across the city. Despite having small-business-level energy consumption, Michael explains how being classified as a medium commercial...

Host Brian Konrad sits down with Deputy Chief of Police Raj Saini of the Medicine Hat Police Service to discuss the evolving landscape of law enforcement. Raj shares his journey from Brantford, Ontario, to Medicine Hat, and how technology, education, and community engagement are shaping the future of policing. The conversation explores the growing role of police in responding to mental health chal...

Brian Konrad welcome Jennifer Davies, the director of the upcoming musical 'All Shook Up' at Crescent Heights High School, which is inspired by the music of Elvis Presley. The conversation delves into the essence of the musical, highlighting its romantic comedy elements and the vibrant 1950s setting. The Jennifer shares insights about the cast, which features two performers for each role...

In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Paul Parks breaks down the chaos in emergency rooms, where up to 33% of hospital beds are occupied by patients who could be in assisted living. Overcrowding, delayed care, and systemic challenges are putting patients and staff at risk. 💡 What’s the solution? From community care improvements to healthcare reform, we explore actionable ideas to fix Alberta’s healthc...

Farming, food security, and the future of agriculture in Canada take centre stage in this episode of Bring Back the Porch. Host Brian Konrad sits down with Nicole Neubauer of Neubauer Farms to discuss why agriculture is big business, the role of innovation and technology, and how the new Yuill School of Agriculture is preparing the next generation of farmers, ag professionals, and food system lead...

We dive into the journey of launching our show, highlighting the ups and downs, the learning curves, and the unexpected successes. Join us as we reflect on our experiences, share insights, and celebrate growth in the world of podcasting. 1. **The Beginning of Our Podcasting Journey**      The journey began in July when Bernie Leahy, Brian Konrad, along with Lynnette Schneider and her husband Bob,...

The conversation on the Porch is about the challenges faced by the Medicine Hat Public School Board regarding potential school closures due to declining enrollment. Chair Catherine Wilson sits down with Brian Konrad to discuss the emotional and logistical complexities of these decisions, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of community impact and the future of school infrastructure. Hey...

A very special episode for Boxing Day, the hosts and students discuss their experiences with college, the value of education, the impact of AI on future job markets, the challenges of home ownership for Generation Z, and the difficulties faced by young adults today compared to previous generations. The discussion highlights diverse perspectives and personal anecdotes, providing a comprehensive vie...

Brian speaks with Christina Johnson from the Sanare Centre about her recent recognition with the Alberta Inspiration Award for her work in gender-based violence prevention. They discuss the Evolvement Program, which aims to engage men and boys in creating allyships and reducing offending behavior. Christina shares insights into the Child Advocacy Centre's role in supporting victims of abuse a...

And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name: "Now, Dasher ! now, Dancer ! now Prancer and Vixen ! On, Comet ! on, Cupid ! on, Donder and Blitzen ! To the top of the PORCH! to the top of the wall! Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!" From A Visit From St. Nicholas By: Clement Clarke Moore He's here!!!!! In a festive episode that fills the air with holiday cheer, we bri...

In a world seemingly more connected than ever, the feeling of loneliness is alarmingly pervasive. In this episode of Bring Back The Porch, Dr. Aganren, a psychiatrist newly settled in Medicine Hat from the UK, shared his insights on this pressing issue, emphasizing the profound impact loneliness has on mental and physical health.  Understanding Loneliness: Dr. Aganren describes loneliness as a sub...

Kelly Ireland, Medicine Hat Fire and Emergency Services fire and life safety educator joins Brian is on the Porch to discuss fire safety, particularly during the holiday season. They look at various hazards associated with common household items, such as batteries, candles, and Christmas trees. Kelli emphasizes the importance of maintaining smoke alarms and fire extinguishers, as well as the need...

Bernie welcomes Josh Remai President of Span West Building Corporation to the Porch to discuss an exciting new condominium project in Medicine Hat. They delve into the background of the company, the unique features of the condos, the sales process, and the community impact of the project. The conversation highlights the importance of modern construction technology and the potential for future deve...

Sergeant Kurtis LaDouceur from the Medicine Hat Police Service discusses the importance of road safety during the holiday season, particularly focusing on impaired driving. The conversation covers the service's plans for check stops, the process of mandatory alcohol screening, and the implications of marijuana legalization on driving. Additionally, tips for party hosts to ensure guests get ho...

Today's conversation on the Porch delves into the political landscape of Alberta, focusing on the dynamics within the UCP, the implications of federal politics, and the challenges faced by local governance. Brian and Jim discuss the push for independence among UCP members, the impact of federal decisions on provincial politics. Brian and Jim also turn to municipal issues including the financi...

The Porch welcomes Melissa Mullis from the Root Cellar Food and Wellness Hub. She speaks with Lynnette about the role the Root Cellar has in providing supports for our community. The affordability crisis has effected many people in our community and there are supports for long term and short term food insecurity. The link to the Root Cellar website is https://www.mhfoodbank.com Hey we need your su...

The conversation explores the themes of value perception in pricing and the importance of financial resilience and resource management. Our guest Drew Barnes, reflects on the disparity in pricing and the implications of financial reserves on sustainability. Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it w...

The Porch welcomes Ken Feser from the Medicine Hat Public Library. Lynnette and Ken discuss the importance of books, the resources at the library, plus some of the great programs and activities taking place at the library.   Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

Author Josie Doll visits the Porch to discuss her book “Courage In The Corners”. She has experienced something no Mum ever dreams of having to experience, the sudden death of her 15 year old son Christian. Josie shares with us her personal experience from a very tragic time in her and her families lives.  Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

November is Family Violence Prevention Month the Medicine Hat Women’s Shelter Society is hosting several events to raise awareness in our community. Kali McGougan visits the Porch to discuss up coming events happening in Southeastern Alberta and how you can participate. If you or someone you know is experiencing Family Violence you can reach out to the shelter… 24/7 SUPPORT: Help Line 403-529-1091...

The Porch is excited to welcome Chief Alan Murphy for a discussion on the Medicine Hat Police Service. The Medicine Hat Police Commission announced this past October that the Chief’s contract has been extended for six more years. Since coming to Medicine Hat, Chief Murphy has focused on enhancing the police service and community engagement. Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Bac...

The Porch recognizes a very special Hatter that gave his all in World War 1. Brian and Wes Krause discuss the impact one person can make during war. Let us introduce to you Private James Peter Robertson, a man that received the  Victoria Cross for outstanding devotion to duty in attack Support the show

Brian is happy to invite Mike Lecorps on the Porch to discuss SIWI a project that is trying to bring skilled immigrants and local businesses together. Alberta is facing a workforce gap in the next 8 years and businesses that address labour gaps and foster engaged teams outperform their competitors. There is an upcoming workshop coming upon November 6th. If you are interested in attending go to Wor...