Bring Back The Porch
Bring Back The Porch, a podcast about simpler times when folks sat on their porch, and felt a sense of community. Everything was discussed on the porch from life, family, politics, and religion. Hosted by Bernie Leahy, this podcast aims to reignite those conversations, while giving people a chance to share their perspectives.
Episodes
183 episodes
Medicine Hat Women's Shelter: Supporting Community and Healing
A warm bed. A hot meal. A locked door. To many in Medicine Hat these are everyday basics, but to people fleeing family violence, it is a lifeline. Today we explore the vital services, fundraising efforts, and community programs of the Medicine ...
The Art of Community Engagement in City Planning
In this episode, we explore the complexities of urban infrastructure projects, community engagement, and city planning with Pat Bohan, Managing Director of Development and Infrastructure in Medicine Hat. Discover how public feedback shapes city...
How to Coexist with Snakes
Bring Back The Porch explores the fascinating world of snakes with expert Sheri Monk. Discover how her passion turned into a mission to educate and protect these misunderstood creatures, and learn practical tips for coexistence.🐍🐍🐍 ...
Writing Historical Fiction: Insights from Victor James Phillips
Today on Bring Back The Porch Brian speaks with local author Victor James Phillips. He shares his journey into historical fiction, focusing on his series about explorers like John Cabot and Sebastian Cabot. Discover his research process, writin...
Where Weird Meets Wonderful: The Story of Fortress of Cheese
Ever wondered how a quirky idea turns into a thriving downtown destination? 🧀✨In this episode, we sit down with Amy, the creative force behind Fortress of Cheese, one of Medicine Hat’s most unique gift and art shops. From mysterious bran...
Shaping Medicine Hat's Future
Today the Porch welcomes City Councillor Bill Cocks. He shares insights on local governance, city development, budget strategies, and the impact of social media on politics. Discover how experienced leadership navigates challenges and shapes th...
Puppets in the Park: Stories, Culture and Community
The Porch welcomes CORE Kids on the Block Puppets to discuss how the program has grown through partnerships with Miywasin Friendship Centre and the City of Medicine Hat. This summer, the puppets will be bringing stories to life in ...
Building Community: Prairie Pride Guild
🌈 What happens when a community comes together to create a space where everyone belongs?In this episode, Jamey and Sterling from Prairie Pride Guild share the organization's 30-year journey of LGBTQ+ advocacy, support, and inclusion in ...
Memories of Medalta
Today on Bring Back The Porch we are on location in one of the historic kilns in Medalta. At Medalta, a unique archaeological field school is not just preserving history, but also bringing it to life. Join us as we explore the exciting discover...
Rivendell Tree Farm Shapes Local Landscapes
To quote the famous author Joyce Kilmer “I think that I shall never seeA poem lovely as a tree.”Today on Bring Back the Porch, Dylan Lafferty, owner of Rivendell Tree Farm, shares insights on selecting, planting, and caring for tree...
Building Homes, Building Hope in Medicine Hat
🏡 What does it take to build more than just a house? In this episode, we sit down with Annette Fahselt-Andreas from Habitat for Humanity Medicine Hat to explore how affordable housing is transforming lives across our community.Learn how...
Manual Not Included: Hidden Seizures, Unexpected Answers
What do you do when something feels "off" with your child—but you can't explain why?In this episode of Manual Not Included, Curt shares how a scary moment with his son led to an unexpected diagnosis: epilepsy. He talks about recognizing...
Big Trucks, Big Smiles: A Day of Family Fun in Medicine Hat
Rev your engines and gather the family! In this episode, we’re diving into Medicine’s upcoming Big Truck Day—a community favourite packed with massive trucks, hands-on activities, pedal tractors, face painting, and a free barbecue. We’ll also e...
🎙️ Building Momentum: A Plan for Well-Being in Medicine Hat
What does it take to build a healthier, more connected community? In this episode, Shona Dickie joins us to discuss Momentum, the City of Medicine Hat's ambitious community well-being plan. We explore how the plan was developed, why community e...
Canada Day in Medicine Hat
What does it take to create one of Medicine Hat’s biggest community celebrations? In this episode, Davy and Yusuf take us behind the scenes of the Canada Day Festival and the growing impact of local events like the skateboard competition. They ...
Reconnecting With Nature
Bring Back The Porch steps out of the studio and in to nature. We recently had the opportunity to visit the Keys To Hope Healing Grounds with Psychologist Deena West. Join us as we explore the innovative approach of Keys to Hope Counselling at ...
Progressive Policing With Chief Murphy
Medicine Hat Police Service is having their annual Open House on Saturday, June 13 from 11AM to 3 PM at MHPS headquarters. Admission is free. The open house includes Building Tours, specialty Unit Displays, Special Guests, a Community BBQ and C...
How Medicine Hat is Shaping Its Future: An Interview with Councillor Chris Hellman
Today on Bring Back The Porch newly elected Councillor Chris Hellman shares insights on city projects, budget strategies, community engagement, and upcoming initiatives in Medicine Hat. Discover how local government navigates community concerns...
Alberta Politics: Party Divisions and Boundary Changes
Brian welcomes back Jim Groom as they explore Alberta's complex political landscape, including recent referendum controversies, party dynamics, and municipal issues. Jim provides expert insights into the province's push for independence, electo...
Ghosts, Numerology, and the Haunted Secrets of Medicine Hat with Tamara Miller
Paranormal enthusiast and Haunted Trolley Tour creator Tamara Miller joins the show to explore the fascinating intersection of ghost stories, local history, and numerology. Discover how real-life paranormal encounters inspired Medicine Hat's po...
Combatting Food Insecurity
The Food Round-Up is June 6th. It’s a community collection day where neighbours place donated food items on their front steps to help feed local families. This episode features Melissa Mullis from the Root Cellar Food and Wellness Hub dis...
Veiner Centre's Community Impact
During the first full week of June, Albertans can show appreciation for Alberta’s seniors and all that they contribute to Alberta. Today on Bring Back The Porch Brian explores the vital services provided by the Veiner Centre.The centre has many...
The Power of Doing Less
Today on Bring Back the Porch you can discover how slowing down can enhance your life. Brian speaks with Carl Honoré, the advocate of the slow movement, and why it matters in today's fast-paced world. Time seems to be accelerating with every ti...
Manual Not Included: Small Victories, Big Feelings
From awkward T-ball moments to terrifying parenting scares, Lynnette shares the emotional journey of raising a child with ADHD. This episode dives into childhood challenges, water fears, social struggles, and the life-changing moment of finally...
Big Brothers and Sisters: Mentoring Youth
🎙️ What does it really take to change a child’s life?In this episode, Ashley Turner from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Medicine Hat shares how mentorship goes far beyond just “hanging out.” From breaking stereotypes to building lifelong re...