What's Up, Welland? - TopPodcast.com

Latest Episodes:

When three words come to the rescue Aug 19, 2025

Show notes

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 it comes to communicating precise locations, especially in moments when every second counts.

We’re exploring why WFES is adopting what3words, how it compares to traditional location methods, and how residents can start using it today.

Here’s where you can learn more: https://what3words.com/embedded.fizzled.trial

Whether you’re on a trail, at a park, or anywhere without a clear address, what3words can help emergency services find you.

You can catch all past episodes and leave us comments at www.welland.ca/podcast/

Municipal momentum that makes policy waves and wins praise Aug 05, 2025

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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 policy governance, while Marc recounts accepting a national award for Wonders of Welland.

From presenting best practices to learning from peers across the country, Welland’s leaders are bringing home fresh perspectives that inspire new approaches and keep our city’s momentum moving forward.

You can catch all past episodes and leave us comments at www.welland.ca/podcast/

Summer safety from flames to floating Jul 22, 2025

Show notes

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/

The scoop on supper, songs, and summer fun Jul 08, 2025

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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 bigger picture of summer in Welland, from family-friendly festivals to community-wide programming that brings people of all ages together.

It’s the perfect episode to get your calendar and appetite ready for a season full of local fun.

You can catch all past episodes and leave us comments at www.welland.ca/podcast/

The crew committed to supporting community causes Jun 30, 2025

Show notes

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’re talking about the events they host, the organizations they support, and the impact these efforts have on both the community and the staff involved. Plus, we get a sneak peek at what’s new for them in 2025.

If you’ve ever dropped off a donation at City Hall or bought a raffle ticket, this episode shows how it all adds up—and why it matters.

You can catch all past episodes and leave us comments at www.welland.ca/podcast/

Game on at Welland Girls Sports Day Jun 17, 2025

Show notes

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.

Together, they share why this free, inclusive event matters to the community—and especially to young girls. From first-time sport experiences to the power of female role models, this episode highlights how Girls Sports Day builds confidence, friendships, and a love of physical activity.

Tune in for conversations that champion the joy of getting in the game—Welland style.

You can catch all past episodes and leave us comments at www.welland.ca/podcast/

Getting girls in the game and empowering through play Jun 03, 2025

Show notes

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 store for participants on Saturday, June 7, and why introducing girls to sport in a fun, welcoming environment matters more than ever.

From volleyball to softball, basketball to tennis, Girls Sports Day isn’t just about trying new things—it’s about inspiring confidence, encouraging active lifestyles, and creating lifelong connections. Tune in to find out how this incredible event is helping shape the future of sport in Welland—one empowered girl at a time!

You can catch all past episodes and leave us comments at www.welland.ca/podcast/

Concerts, community, and tunes along the canal May 21, 2025

Show notes

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 venues: the Merritt Park Amphitheatre.

Tune in to find out what to expect from this year’s lineup, why free live music matters to the community, and what makes this summer tradition a must-attend for residents and visitors alike.

For full details on dates and performers, visit https://www.welland.ca/Events/eventsinfo/concertsOnTheCanal.asp

You can catch all past episodes and leave us comments at www.welland.ca/podcast/

History worth remembering: The Underground Railroad in Niagara May 06, 2025

Show notes

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 preserving and presenting this vital part of our past.

We also explore how the exhibit came to life and why it remains so important today—to remember, reflect, and recognize the journeys that shaped our community.

You can catch all past episodes and leave us comments at www.welland.ca/podcast/

From everyday impact to exciting plans Apr 22, 2025

Show notes

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. We also explore the robust range of programs, events, and facilities that help our city thrive.

Whether you’re curious about what’s been happening behind the scenes or what’s ahead in 2025, this episode offers an inside look at how community connection drives the daily work being done in Welland.

You can catch all past episodes and leave us comments at www.welland.ca/podcast/