Karin’s path to Designs by Karin began long before she ever considered furniture refinishing a career. Growing up in Oshawa, she was always creating, whether she was crafting, baking with her grandmother or refinishing her first cedar chest by hand.

Her professional life took her into pharmacy, hospital work and eventually a seventeen year career teaching pharmacy technicians. After moving to the Okanagan and working with Interior Health, Karin stepped away from her career to care for her parents and needed to find something she could build from home.

What began with a $25 nightstand grew into a thriving custom furniture refinishing business, a community of fellow creators and a return to the creative side that had always been part of her. Karin shares the care, patience and persistence behind transforming both furniture and an unexpected new chapter of life.

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Robin @bluepineapplestrongman and @bluepineapplebarber  grew up in Salmon Arm, but a love of travel and new experiences soon took him far beyond his hometown. After working at a plywood mill, he spent a year travelling through Australia and Southeast Asia before returning to Canada and eventually making his way to Kelowna.

His career path has been just as varied. Robin worked in construction and installed windows on high rises before turning a skill he had practiced since his teenage years into a career as a barber. He went on to compete in barber battles across Canada, using bold colours and creative designs to stand out from the competition.

More recently, Robin entered the world of competitive strongman. In only his second season, he won provincials and became Canada’s under 80 kilogram strongman champion, earning his professional card and invitations to compete internationally.

Robin shares how he built the discipline to keep training, what it takes to prepare for strongman competitions, the injuries and setbacks he has worked through and why the supportive community surrounding the sport has made the journey so meaningful.

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Chris is the owner and head brewer of Grey Fox Brewing, but his path to opening his dedicated gluten free brewery was anything but predictable.

Raised on a small farm in Manitoba, Chris grew up taking apart motorcycles, playing drums and experimenting with early video technology. His career eventually brought him to Kelowna, where he spent nearly 25 years working in church ministry and using his engineering background to help build one of the earliest multisite church systems.

When he felt called to begin a new chapter, Chris turned his attention to a problem he understood personally. As someone with celiac disease, he knew how difficult it was to find a genuinely good gluten free beer. Despite knowing almost nothing about brewing, he became determined to figure it out.

Chris shares how curiosity, faith, engineering and a lifelong love of tinkering came together to create Grey Fox Brewing. We talk about learning from brewers across the region, developing beer from millet and rice, building the brewery and creating something that allows people with celiac disease to enjoy beer without compromise.

Crystal Cain’s story starts on Vancouver Island, where she grew up in Victoria, spent her childhood outdoors, became vegetarian at nine, and eventually found her way into food almost by accident.

After years of serving, travelling, studying psychology, environmental studies, nutrition, and culinary arts, Crystal’s path led her from Victoria to Vancouver, Fort McMurray, India, Southeast Asia, and eventually Kelowna.

In this conversation, Crystal shares how a love of food grew out of her values, curiosity, and travels; how buying a small food truck in Fort McMurray changed the direction of her life; and how she now creates vegan and vegetarian pub food that is not just “good for vegan food,” but simply good food.

This episode is about following the unexpected turns, building something from scratch, feeding people well, and opening minds one meal at a time.

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Jessie Rivest is a vocalist, sound artist, and leadership coach whose work explores the connection between voice, creativity, archetypes, and self-expression.

Born in Vancouver, raised in Ontario, and now living in Kelowna, Jessie’s story moves through childhood theatre and music, university voice studies, barbershop singing, tarot, Jungian psychology, and leadership work rooted in archetypes and storytelling.

In this conversation, Jessie shares how music and performance shaped her from a young age, how major life changes opened the door to a deeper creative and spiritual practice, and how she now works with people through voice, leadership, facilitation, and expression.

This episode is about sound, sensitivity, creativity, personal transformation, and the lifelong process of finding and using your voice.

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Jonathan moved to Kelowna as a child and considers it his hometown. He shares memories of sports, fishing at Bear Lake, Gyro Beach, and growing up in a different era of Kelowna.

His career started at Revy and Rona, where he learned about service, leadership, trades, and the building supply world. After years in corporate management, he eventually stepped away and found his way into more personal, hands on work.

Today, Jonathan helps coordinate accessibility focused home projects for people navigating major injuries or mobility challenges. His work is about making homes functional, beautiful, and supportive of a person’s new reality.

A conversation about Kelowna, work ethic, reinvention, and helping people regain independence at home.

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Born and raised in Kelowna, Brittani Buettner of Scenic Route Jewellery @scenicrouteco has always been drawn to creating.

In this episode, we talk about growing up in West Kelowna, travel, jewelry school in Nelson, motherhood, building a handmade business, and how the mountains continue to shape her work.

A thoughtful conversation about creativity, purpose, and finding your way.

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Kayla Mendel is the owner of Lavender and Grace Jewelry, a Kelowna based jewelry company known for delicate, dainty pieces and approachable price points.

Kayla shares her unique childhood story, from being born in the Caribbean, growing up in Edmonton, and spending two years living on a sailboat with her family. She talks about the adventure, the challenges, and the way that time shaped her view of the world.

She also opens up about moving to Kelowna as a teenager, her dad’s life changing mountain biking accident, and the major family changes that followed. Through it all, Kayla found her way into creativity, business, and eventually jewelry.

What started during a gap year as a personal creative outlet slowly grew into Lavender and Grace. Kayla talks about naming the brand, studying marketing at Okanagan College, growing the business through the pandemic, hiring her first employees, and eventually opening her downtown Kelowna store.

A conversation about resilience, family, creativity, entrepreneurship, and the long process of turning something you love into something that lasts.

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We sit down with Val and Rachel, the couple behind The Racket House.

Val shares his story of leaving the former Soviet Union as a child, living in Israel, and eventually landing in Canada. Rachel shares what it was like growing up homeschooled while training as a competitive figure skater, spending long days on the ice and chasing a very high level of sport.

Together, they talk about childhood, immigration, athletics, reinvention, and the path that led them to Kelowna and to building something new.

A thoughtful conversation about resilience, partnership, movement, and starting again.

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Kristen is a Kelowna based brand photographer who works with established women entrepreneurs.

We talk about creativity, identity, motherhood, entrepreneurship, and how photography can help people feel truly seen.

This is a beautiful conversation about resilience, reinvention, and following the creative thread that keeps showing up throughout your life.

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This week on of Kelowna, we sit down with Trevor from @ponderosavalleylandscape.

Trevor’s path has taken him from growing up around Vancouver and Powell River, to working as a mechanic in Alberta and eventually finding his way back to something that had always been there in the background: plants, nature, and the outdoors.

We talk about childhood, camping, music, basketball shoes, the pressure young people feel to “figure it out,” and the winding road that led him from automotive work to horticulture. Trevor shares what it was like starting over in landscaping, building experience from the ground up, and eventually creating Ponderosa Valley alongside a busy life as a husband, dad, grounds manager, and business owner.

A thoughtful conversation about changing direction, finding work that fits your values, and building something of your own.

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Hayden from Brutal Condiments is a local fermenter turning Okanagan produce into pepper sauces, mustards, miso, soy sauce, horseradish, and all kinds of wild, aged condiments.

We talk about his path from kitchens and pastry work to kombucha brewing, butchery, fermentation, farmers markets, and building a brand where the name really fits: because apparently, everything about making this stuff is a little bit brutal. We also get into bowling, exploding kombucha, local ingredients, creative work, and the strange magic of letting things sit for a very long time until they become something completely different.

A fun one about food, fermentation, and following curiosity wherever it goes. 

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Kim joins of Kelowna to share a life story that has taken her from a farm outside Prince George, to Burnaby, to the Cayman Islands, and eventually to Kelowna.

Growing up around animals, 4H, hard work, and northern BC winters shaped a lot of Kim’s early life. From there, she moved to the city, studied criminology and counselling, met her husband on a flight to Mexico, and later spent years living and working in the Cayman Islands.

In this episode, we talk about farm life, travel, hurricanes, evacuation, moving back to Kelowna, working in bylaw, and the experiences that led Kim to start Hippomouth Inventory — a business focused on helping people document what they own before they ever need to make an insurance claim.

A thoughtful conversation about resilience, preparedness, big life pivots, and the moments that make you realize how quickly life can change.

#ofkelownapodcast #bibidiapp

Cindy, owner of Baked Custom Cakes and Sweets in downtown Kelowna, joins the podcast to share her journey from being born in Guangzhou, China, to growing up in Vancouver, finding her way into baking and pastry, and eventually building a custom cake business here in Kelowna.

We talk about childhood, food, creativity, culinary school, working in kitchens, motherhood, burnout, moving to Kelowna during lockdown, building a commercial kitchen at home, and the leap from home-based baking to opening a downtown bake shop. Cindy’s story is full of creativity, honesty, resilience, and a whole lot of cake.

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We sit down with Chris for a conversation about cars, craft, family and the road that led him to opening his own shop.

Chris’s love for European cars started in the back seat of a mid 80s BMW and eventually took him from Ontario, to automotive school in Arizona, to high end BMW dealerships, and finally to Kelowna.

What I loved about this conversation is how much meaning Chris finds in cars. They are not just machines. They hold memories, family stories, sacrifice, risk and connection.

A great conversation about following the thing that keeps pulling at you, even when the path there is anything but straight.

One year later.

What started as me just wanting to sit down, chat, and get to know people has grown into something really special. This anniversary episode looks back at the very first recording I made into the mics. 

A big thank you to everyone who helped get this off the ground and to everyone who continues to listen, share, and send guest recommendations my way.

Cheers

Luxury Muck creates art that is dark, strange, imaginative, and unmistakably original. Jordan joins me to talk about childhood creativity, the influences that shaped his style, and the way his work intertwines the edgy with a softness.

A heartfelt episode about an unstable childhood, the people who stepped in with love and stability, and the resilience that can grow from difficult beginnings. It’s an honest and moving conversation with Ash from @twoblueprints.styling about family, belonging, and how even the hardest chapters can leave behind meaningful gifts.

#ofkelownapodcast #twoblueprintsstyling

Bernie Ryan has lived a life full of movement, hands on learning, and community impact. In this episode, we talk about the road that took him from his early years in Toronto to the life he’s built today through motorcycles, mechanics, and hard earned experience. We also get into Bernie’s incredible fundraising efforts and the heart he has for giving back, making this a conversation not just about work and hobbies, but about purpose and community too. 

At just 15, Rocklin has already built an incredible story. In this episode, he shares how a love of fantasy, a broken wand, and a pocket knife sparked Rockwands, a handmade business that grew fast through creativity, family support, and word of mouth. A fun and inspiring conversation about building something from scratch in Kelowna. 

In this episode of of Kelowna, I sit down with Rosemary Thomson, Artistic Director of Opera Kelowna, to talk about the journey that shaped her life in music. From growing up in St. Catharines, Ontario, as one of seven kids in a home filled with singing, instruments, and chaos, to discovering the power of music through family, teaching, and conducting, Rosemary shares a thoughtful and inspiring look at how passion becomes a life’s work. We talk childhood, nature, music, community, and the path that eventually brought her west to Kelowna. 

Big shoutout to Shawn from Eco Grow Tech, Jared and Jamie from Better Good Agency, formerly Sessions Agency, and Vince, who took care of the design and photography in the early days. Their support played a huge part in helping bring the concept to life and get the business off the ground as quickly as it did. 

How do two Okanagan friends turn a side idea into a thriving local business? In this episode, Colton and Justin of @mycrogreensco share their journey from sports, trades, and side hustles to building a successful Kelowna microgreens business. They talk about starting during COVID, the grind of entrepreneurship, supplying Okanagan restaurants and grocery stores, and what it takes to grow something real from the ground up.

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98% of Canadian businesses are small.
Most have no employees.
Many struggle just to be found.

In this episode, we explore the story behind Bibidi — a Central Okanagan-based platform designed to connect independent service providers with their community.

From early entrepreneurial sparks to startup accelerators, tech builds, failed pitches, and unexpected pivots, this is a deep dive into what it means to build a marketplace from the ground up.

It’s about more than hiring a painter or dog walker.
It’s about restoring the fabric of community — one connection at a time.

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What happens when the helper becomes the one telling their story?

In this episode of of Kelowna, therapist Melissa Campos opens up about her path into mental health work, supporting high achievers through anxiety and burnout, and the surprising lessons she learned about failure, imposter syndrome, and self-compassion along the way.

A reflective conversation about growth, ambition, and why sometimes healing isn’t fixing — it’s simply sitting beside someone in the hard moments.

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She was told she wasn’t “McDonald’s material.”

Today, she’s filling rooms with over 100 women.

In this episode of of Kelowna, we sit down with a proud Rutland girl who grew up feeling like the quiet shadow in the background, introverted and unsure where she fit, convinced everyone else had it figured out.

From working at Blockbuster on Friday nights to packing up her car and moving to Fort St. John on a whim, her path into real estate was not polished or predictable. She failed her licensing exam. She questioned herself. She wondered who would ever want to talk to “just another realtor.”

And then she built something anyway.

What started as a safe space for a handful of women has grown into The Boss Network, a thriving community here in Kelowna that sells out events, pairs strangers so no one walks in alone, and proves that the so called black sheep often become the ones who build the rooms.

This conversation is about introversion, imposter feelings, entrepreneurship, community, and the quiet kids who grow up to take the stage.

If you have ever felt like you did not quite fit in, this one is for you.

Matt is a Kelowna born chef whose path into food started early and took him around the world before bringing him back home. From working in Michelin starred kitchens in Copenhagen and San Francisco to becoming a head chef in the Okanagan at just twenty years old, his journey has been driven by curiosity, discipline, and an all in approach to learning.

But one unexpected idea changed everything. What began as a way to use surplus chili peppers on a small winery farm eventually turned into MM. Sauce, a hot sauce company inspired by restaurant creativity, Costa Rican ingredients, and a push from family to bottle something special. Starting with small batches sold through Instagram and local markets, the project quickly became more than just a side experiment.

In this episode, Matt shares how food, travel, and experience shaped his cooking philosophy, why balance matters more to him now than fine dining prestige, and how building MM Sauce fits into a life centered on family, community, and the Okanagan food scene.

Musician Ben Dunnill is a pianist and vocalist whose lifelong connection to music began in a home filled with instruments, creativity, and encouragement to follow his passion. Ben shares how performing in piano bars as a teenager became his real-world education in music, eventually leading to touring experiences, viral social media moments, and a move to Kelowna sparked by both opportunity and connection.

The conversation explores Ben’s creative process, his love of improvisation, the discipline behind performing night after night, and how travel, relationships, and lived experience continue to shape his artistry. From public pianos in European train stations to stages across Canada, Ben’s journey is a reminder that growth often happens when curiosity leads the way.

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We sit down with Marie-Claude, the founder of Planty of Nosh, to explore a journey shaped by food family and resilience. From growing up near Montreal in a tight knit entrepreneurial family to training in culinary school working in France and eventually finding her way to the Okanagan her story spans continents and seasons of life.

We talk about the realities of the restaurant industry the lessons learned from opening businesses and how motherhood and personal loss reshaped her relationship with food and health. The conversation follows the birth of Planty of Nosh just days before COVID and the pivots required to survive and rebuild.

This episode is a thoughtful look at listening to your instincts adapting through uncertainty and creating something meaningful when the path forward is anything but clear.

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Tom shares the winding path that brought him from a small village in the Netherlands to building a life—and a butcher shop—in Kelowna. We talk about his upbringing, his education in food design and innovation, and the many roles he held in the hospitality world along the way. Tom opens up about the leap to Canada, the realities of starting a catering business from scratch, and the challenges and rewards of putting down roots in a new place. At its heart, this conversation is about craft, sustainability, community, and why working with your hands still matters in today’s world. 

Chantal’s life has been shaped by movement, adaptation, and quiet resilience. From a cross-Canada road trip as a child to growing up in Northern BC, navigating family separation, and finding unexpected belonging in Kelowna, her story is one of constant transition. As a young adult, feeling overwhelmed by academic life but pulled toward something more, she took a leap that led her across the world with little more than a backpack and determination. This episode explores belonging, family, and the courage to follow an inner voice when the path forward isn’t clear. 

Join us in this captivating episode of Twilight Valley Handwoven Textiles as we sit down with Jessica Crawford, the creative force behind Twilight Valley Hand Woven Textiles. Discover how Jessica transitioned from a music career to her side hustle of mastering the art of weaving, and learn about the intricate process of setting up looms and crafting unique textiles. Explore the vibrant world of fiber arts, the community that supports it, and the timeless connection between music and weaving. Tune in for an inspiring journey into the heart of traditional crafts and modern creativity.

Dive into the sweet journey of Leanne and Hallie as they share their inspiring story of building a cookie empire on the latest episode of CHOMP! @chompcookiesca From dreams to delicious realities, discover how passion and partnership create magic.

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Adam, the visionary behind @RedBirdBrewing. From humble beginnings in Vernon, gold hunting in the Amazon, to creating a community hub in Kelowna, Adam shares his passion for craft beer, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the serendipitous moments that shaped Red Bird Brewing. Discover how a simple idea turned into a beloved local landmark, complete with live music, community events, and a vibrant atmosphere. This is a story of resilience, creativity, and the power of community.

#ofKelowna #KelownaPodcast #RedBirdKelowna #Kelowna #LocalBusiness #redbirdbrewing  #LocalStories #HumanStories #UnscriptedPodcast #CommunityVoices #Okanagan

Explore the captivating journey of Michelle, a photographer who seamlessly blends her passion for art and therapy. In this episode, Michelle shares how her advanced academic pursuits in psychology led her to the world of blending counselling and art through therapeutic photography. Discover her unique approach to capturing genuine emotions and connections in weddings and other events, and learn how she uses her craft to advocate for mental health. Join us for an inspiring conversation about the transformative power of photography.

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Laura Luckhurst, of Luckhurst Farm and Distillery, shares her journey from Calgary to Connecticut, and eventually to Kelowna, where she and her husband Joe run a successful distillery. The episode delves into Laura's experiences growing up, her transition into the wine industry, and the eventual shift to distilling. Laura discusses the importance of family, the creative process behind their unique product labels, and the joy of integrating personal history into their business. The conversation also touches on the challenges and rewards of running a family business, the significance of community, and the art of balancing work with family life.

Carolina shares her inspiring journey from El Salvador to Canada, detailing her path to founding Casa Modelo Studio. Through personal stories of resilience and creativity, Carolina reveals how she turned challenges into opportunities, building a unique vintage shop that reflects her passion for sustainable and curated design. Her story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact of following one's dreams.

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Matt from Plant Gather takes us through a winding journey that starts in a tiny Mennonite town in Manitoba and eventually lands in the Okanagan. From moving across provinces as a kid, to switching schools almost every year, to navigating the maze of commercial leases and unexpected costs as a small business owner Matt’s story is full of quiet resilience and thoughtful reflection.

We talk about what it means to build a life and a business in Kelowna, the realities behind the scenes that most people never see, and the surprising lessons learned along the way. It’s an easygoing, honest conversation about roots, movement, and creating something meaningful in a place you love.

Join us for a grounded, insightful look into Matt’s path and the heart behind Plant Gather.

In this episode of of Kelowna, we sit down with Gerry Jobe to talk life, legacy, and the joy of creating something bigger than yourself. From reliving the excitement of 80s and 90s culture to the responsibility of passing a company, and values, down to the next generation, Gerry reflects on what really matters: relationships, memories, and savoring the simple moments. This is a conversation about family, gratitude, and the sweet “syrup” that makes life rich. 

#ofKelownaPodcast #KelownaPodcast #OkanaganPodcast #Legacy #FamilyBusiness #LifeReflections #Gratitude #Nostalgia #CreatingALegacy #MemoriesMatter #PassItOn #ListenNow #LocalVoices #LifeWisdom #KelownaLife #OkanaganLiving #Inspiration 

This week’s guest is Frances, manager of the Kelowna Farmers and Crafters Market, and someone whose warmth, humour, and community spirit shine through every story. We talk about her path from working in the market to running it, what it’s like behind the scenes, and how much heart goes into building a space that supports local growers, makers, and connections. 

#OfKelownaPodcast #KelownaPodcast #KelownaFarmersMarket #KelownaCommunity #KelownaLife #SupportLocalKelowna #FarmersMarketStories #KelownaLocal #MeetTheMaker #OkanaganLife #OkanaganLiving #KelownaLove #LocalStories #BehindTheMarket #CommunityConnections #ShopLocalKelowna #OkanaganFarmersMarket #KelownaCreatives 

After years in the non-profit world, Stephanie knew she wanted to build something of her own, something rooted in meaning and connection. She just wasn’t sure what that was yet. Inspired by the people she met and a desire to create something that gave back, she landed on granola, even though she didn’t like granola! Through trial, error, and plenty of taste tests, she crafted a mix that was actually good, and Cabin Five was born.

In this episode, we talk about finding purpose through experimentation, starting from scratch, and the power of building community one small, thoughtful batch at a time. 

From his early days at Earls to cooking at the world’s best restaurant, Noma, Brian Skinner’s culinary journey has been anything but ordinary. Brian's story of  Frankie We Salute You is a story of passion, purpose, and finding balance beyond ambition.

#OfKelownaPodcast #FrankieWeSaluteYou #KelownaEats #KelownaPodcast #LocalStories #SupportLocalKelowna #KelownaRestaurants #FoodJourney #VegetarianCooking #OkanaganLife

What started as a dream of a Spanish-style charcuterie cart turned into a joyful mini pancake and dirty soda stand, complete with custom LED lighting, seasonal toppings, and an ever-changing menu. 

Evelyn brings global flavor memory from Spanish hot chocolate to Dominican sweets. Cody brings his no-measurement-needed family pancake recipe, perfected over years of Sunday breakfasts. Together, they build not just food, but vibes.

This episode is warm, inventive, and ridiculously charming — like a pancake fresh off the griddle.

From a small town in Slovakia to van life across North America and finally settling in Kelowna, Jana has followed an unconventional path. What started as a side project during lockdown has grown into a passion for restoring furniture — work she finds both challenging and deeply rewarding. In this episode, she shares the full-circle connection to her family back home, the lessons learned from trial and error in the workshop, and her vision of blending sustainability, woodworking, and even coffee into a future community space.

Wrapping up our coffee fest special is a redrop of one of the first podcast supporters and a fan favourite @craft42roasters. From roasting beans to building dreams, Taylor and Aaron of Craft 42 Roasters share their story of entrepreneurship, community, and the grind behind great coffee. It’s a deep dive into what it takes to grow a local business rooted in passion and purpose.

Mobile: Winston

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Sharlet, a passionate entrepreneur and founder of Momentous Coffee Co. In this episode, Sharlet shares her journey from healthcare to coffee, the challenges of building a business from the ground up, and the importance of community and family. Discover how her love for nature and adventure fuels her creativity and learn about the unique mission behind her coffee venture. Whether you're a coffee enthusiast or an aspiring entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insights and motivation to follow your dreams.

www.neoncoffeeroasters.com

Henryk and Virginie of NEON Coffee share how their journeys—from Costa Rica and Kelowna to bread baking, social work, and international studies—came together through a shared passion for coffee. They reflect on starting NEON in a garage with a Loring roaster, their focus on light, bright roasts, and their commitment to paying producers fairly while cutting through industry greenwashing. Along the way, they explore the culture, politics, and craft of coffee, and how they’re working to reshape the way we value every cup.

www.modecoffee.ca

Mo and Brooko started Mode Coffee at a farmers market with a humble home espresso machine, showing that coffee could be café-quality at home. Inspired by Australian coffee culture, they gradually upgraded equipment, honed their roasts, and expanded to markets with a custom trailer. Along the way, they navigated permits, packaging, and long days, all while building community connections and celebrating inclusivity in the craft coffee world. 

Mobile

From cruise ship stages to coffee carts in Kelowna, Megan and Eder’s journey is anything but ordinary. What started as two dancers meeting at sea eventually turned into a shared love of coffee, community, and building something of their own. After years of performing around the world, they returned to the Okanagan, juggling odd jobs, parenthood, and a dream that wouldn’t let go. Today, that dream is Boa Vida — a hand-built cart turned growing coffee business that reflects their story of resilience, creativity, and carving out a good life in Kelowna.

Stewart from Urla returns for Part 2 — this time diving deeper into their coffee lineup. We planned for a quick follow-up and ended up talking beans, brews, and coffee philosophy for another full hour. 

urlacoffee.ca

Stewart and Cassandra share the story of Urla Coffee and the playful, community-focused spirit behind their brand. They’re building something fun, thoughtful, and deeply local. With humour, honesty, and a love of simplicity done well, they’re shaping a coffee identity that’s uniquely them. 

1037 Richter St

Peter takes us through his life journey from being one of the early pioneers of craft beer in BC, to a long chapter in the wine industry, to becoming part of Red Bird Brewing and now stepping into the world of coffee roasting. He’s become one of the few...if not only...masters of the Okanagan Trifecta: wine, craft beer, and craft coffee. 

1880 Baron Rd.

First drop of Coffee week is the one and only Bailey of Anarchy coffee. He was a ski bum for years, building jumps and chasing powder, when his love for coffee started to grow naturally and organically right alongside his own homemade roaster. In this episode, we dive into the unpredictable world of specialty coffee, the chaos of daily brewing, and the Kelowna Coffee Fest. It’s caffeine, creativity, and a little bit of punk-rock attitude in every sip. 

Carly never set out to be a wedding planner, but a hospitality course changed everything. What started as a curiosity quickly turned into Champagne Celebrations—her own company that grew faster than she ever expected. In this episode, she shares how her love of organization turned into a career, what it’s really like behind the scenes of weddings, why hiring a coordinator can save you from chaos, and the unforgettable story of a power-outage wedding lit only by cell phone flashlights.

www.champagnecelebrationsbc.com

www.sourdoughschoolhouse.com

Shannon shares how her love for sourdough grew into teaching over 50 workshops, connecting with students in 17 countries, and building a vibrant online membership that’s still thriving four years later. From the artistry of bread across cultures to the science of fermentation and gut health, she brings both passion and practicality, reminding us that progress matters more than perfection. At its core, her journey is about more than bread—it’s about creating community, friendship, and connection around something as simple and powerful as baking.

1111 Gordon Dr.

When Remy and her dad turned a shared love of rocks into a small shop, they couldn’t have guessed it would grow into a thriving hub for collectors, learners, and the Kelowna rock club. In this episode, Remy shares how family support, a leap of faith, and a lot of self-teaching transformed a passion into a business. She opens up about leaving a “safe” city job, the challenges and joys of running a small business, and the importance of community — from volunteers building a workshop to local neighbors creating a little industrial-area gem.

Whether you’re into minerals, small business stories, or just need inspiration to take your own leap, this conversation is full of heart, honesty, and a reminder that effort, curiosity, and support can turn a dream into something real.

From carpentry and massage therapy to running Kelowna’s first cornhole league, Chris and Kindra have built something bigger than a game—it’s a community. In this episode, we talk about how a backyard pastime grew into a nonprofit league that’s now connected to nationals, why cornhole is one of the most inclusive and affordable sports out there, and the challenges of keeping it accessible as it grows. With stories of friendship, family, and the joy of tossing a bag, Chris and Kindra share why cornhole is about more than points on a board—it’s about people. 

Sarah’s vintage markets have become more than just shopping events—they’re hubs of creativity and connection. From figuring out low-cost marketing to experimenting with new venues, she’s constantly refining how to keep her shows both accessible and vibrant. Collaborations with local businesses like Railside Brewing have opened new doors, drawing crowds of all ages for evenings filled with music, food, and vintage treasures. For Sarah, success isn’t just about sales—it’s about building community, creating a sense of place, and bringing life to the spaces she helps shape. With a never-ending waitlist of vendors and an ever-growing following, she’s proof that when you pair passion with adaptability, you can create something lasting, joyful, and deeply rooted in place. 

Airport Business Park - 2030 Matrix Cres #7

The road to 3 Lakes Brewing wasn’t a straight line. For founders Mel and Cathy, it took years of hard work, different jobs, and unexpected turns before they discovered where they were meant to be—running an entirely women-owned and operated brewery in the heart of Lake Country.

In this episode, they share how their journeys came together to create 3 Lakes: from shaping a welcoming community space to designing standout beer cans, collaborating with local food trucks, and finding resilience through the challenges of entrepreneurship. It’s a story of passion, persistence, and the long path toward building something truly their own.

2190 Cooper Rd. - at the Kelowna Fruit n Veggie Farm

From competitive gymnastics to the chaos of the kitchen, Trevan’s journey has always been fueled by discipline and passion. After years in restaurants, catering, and private cheffing, he took a leap in Kelowna—transforming a secondhand trailer into @thesandwichslinger, a breakfast truck built from scratch.

In this episode, we dive into community support, the realities of small business ownership, and Trevan’s dream of one day opening a cozy brick-and-mortar spot.

It’s a story of hustle, heart, and why a great breakfast sandwich is worth waking up for.

Capri Centre: 1835 Gordon Dr.

Kevin and Kristina are the passionate duo breathing new life into the Okanagan Bowling Club. Blending cherished nostalgia with thoughtful modern touches, they’re transforming it into a vibrant hub for the community. Hear how they’ve navigated the challenges of property management, reignited a love for bowling, and rallied the incredible support of local businesses like Wesco, a standout electrical company. After learning that outdated lights were triggering seizures for one of the bowlers, Wesco generously donated brand-new lighting to create a safer, more welcoming space for everyone. This is a story of dedication, resilience, and the power of community to keep a beloved institution thriving.

#103 - 1851 Kirschner Rd

Join Allisha as she reflects on her personal journeys, exploring themes of sustainability, entrepreneurship, and the importance of travel. She discusses the challenges and growth that come from navigating life's twists and turns, the significance of starting small in sustainable living, and the value of community support. The conversation also touches on the impact of motherhood and the lessons learned through various life experiences, culminating in a rich dialogue about the interconnectedness of personal and professional growth.

Crawford

We delve into the inspiring story of Celin, who moved from Germany to Kelowna in her youth. She shares her experiences of adapting to a new culture, including walking around school with a dictionary as she learned English. Now, as a mother of homeschooled children, Celin is channeling her passion for sourdough baking into a budding grassroots business. Join us as she discusses the challenges and triumphs of balancing family life with her entrepreneurial dreams. Tune in for a heartfelt journey of resilience, creativity, and the pursuit of passion.

1320 Water St.

Join us as we dive into the extraordinary life of Sean, a dynamic entrepreneur who juggles the responsibilities of owning two successful companies while soaring the skies as a full-time pilot. In this episode, we also veer off into our shared passion for sports, discussing how it fuels our drive and keeps us grounded. Sean candidly shares how he navigates the challenges of balancing his professional and personal life, the wisdom he's gathered from his multifaceted career, and how sports play a crucial role in his journey as a father. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or simply looking for inspiration, Sean's story is sure to motivate and uplift.

Brielle Walsh

In this episode, we chat with Brielle - the baker, mom, and creative behind The Lazy Batch - whose bold cookies have become a local staple at the Kelowna Farmers’ and Crafters’ Market. What began as a comforting outlet during postpartum and pandemic life quickly grew into a full-blown cookie sensation.

Brielle opens up about her journey from working in restaurants in Vancouver to baking in a tiny condo kitchen with a newborn in tow. She shares the early hustle of handwriting every label, baking through nap times, and selling out at markets while slowly scaling up to mixers and depositors that changed the game. With no formal training and no business plan, just pure love for nostalgia and flavor, The Lazy Batch is a story of heart, hustle, and staying true to what feels good.

This episode is for anyone chasing a creative spark, building something out of nothing, or just obsessed with great cookies.

Listen at www.ofkelowna.com or wherever you get your podcasts. 

100-1650 Dickson Ave.

2942 Pandosy St.

1399 Ellis St.

Amy shares her inspiring journey from growing up in Kelowna to building a life in Victoria, and ultimately returning home with a renewed sense of purpose. With a solid background in the restaurant and catering industries, she reflects on how those early experiences equipped her with invaluable skills and insights that continue to shape her path today.

We dive into the world of coffee, exploring the evolution of third wave coffee and the values that set it apart - transparency, craftsmanship, and a deep sense of community. Amy also opens up about the behind-the-scenes realities of entrepreneurship: navigating the balance between personal life and business, the importance of mentorship, and her commitment to fostering a strong and intentional company culture.

This episode also celebrates the community-driven energy of events like latte art competitions, where creativity and connection come to life. Whether you're a coffee enthusiast, a small business supporter, or simply someone who appreciates a thoughtful origin story, this conversation is full of warmth, wisdom, and inspiration.

1959 KLO Rd.

Danielle takes us through her journey — from childhood creativity to carving out a name as a tattoo artist. She opens up about the grind of her apprenticeship, how tattooing has evolved, and how she’s developed a style all her own. Beyond the ink, Danielle shares her deep connection to nature through foraging and plant wisdom, and her dream of building a wellness space that blends community, education, and the healing power of the natural world. 

#105 - 1195 Richter St.

Sharilyn takes us inside her world — as a mom, an artist, and a bold entrepreneur reshaping the local fashion scene. We dive into her move from the fast pace of Vancouver back to Kelowna, where she’s built a creative space rooted in community, connection, and old-school heirloom skills like sewing. From the hustle of motherhood to the challenge of building a business with purpose, we unpack her mission to slow down fashion, spark sustainability, and inspire a culture that values craft over consumption. 

Behind Unleashed Brewing in the North End Brewery District

Matthew, the creative force behind Tori Dori, a vibrant food truck serving up Japanese-inspired street eats with heart and hustle. Matthew shares the story of how a love for food, culture, and connection drove him to launch his mobile kitchen, and the lessons he’s learned rolling through Kelowna’s food scene. From testing recipes to building community, we explore what it takes to turn a passion project into a local favorite - all from the window of a food truck. Come for the story, stay for the flavor. 

740 Clement Ave

In this episode, Dr. Jordan Sanders shares his journey from early inspirations to building a dental practice grounded in empathy, innovation, and excellence. We explore how understanding and addressing patient fears can completely transform the dental experience, and why a supportive team culture is key to delivering top-tier care. Dr. Sanders also unpacks how technology is reshaping modern dentistry, and emphasizes the importance of continuous learning in an ever-evolving field. It’s a thoughtful, forward-looking conversation about dentistry that goes far beyond cleanings and checkups. 

In this episode, Jeff — the force behind Cheffrey 911 Catering — shares his incredible journey from the safety of a family business to the high-stakes world of culinary entrepreneurship. With raw honesty, Jeff talks about the trials of launching a food venture, including surviving a catastrophic fire, flooding, and the wild ride of running a food truck. We explore the roots of his passion, the impact of family, and the grit it takes to adapt in a tough industry. This is a story of resilience, reinvention, and the love of food that keeps it all going. 

1186 High Rd, Kelowna

We sit down with Rob and Matt, the passionate founders of Railside Brewing, to uncover the personal and professional journey behind their craft. From deep family roots and a leap from the trades into brewing, to navigating the challenges of startup life, they share the highs and lows of building a brewery from the ground up. We explore the evolving world of beer—from innovative brewing techniques and industry regulations to the power of community engagement and local collaboration. It’s a candid conversation about partnership, perseverance, and the shared vision that keeps the taps flowing. 

1178 High Rd, Kelowna

From roasting beans to building dreams, Taylor and Aaron of Craft 42 Roasters share their story of entrepreneurship, community, and the grind behind great coffee. It’s a deep dive into what it takes to grow a local business rooted in passion and purpose. 

102-604 Cawston Avenue

Luna reflects on her journey from a life of travel and cultural exploration to settling in Kelowna and creating Komorebi Cafe and Healing Art Studio. Inspired by the intentional use of small spaces in Japan and a cherished memory of a mountain tea house, she designed a versatile, transformable café to foster connection, creativity, and cultural exchange. Luna’s passion now lies in hosting and nurturing community rather than seeking adventure abroad, realizing that the sense of connection and purpose she once searched for externally can be created from within—and shared with others right here at home.

815 Vaughan Ave

We chat with Casey, the inspiring founder of Big Fat Lion Bakeshop, an allergen-free bakery based in Kelowna. From her early days as a teacher to launching a mission-driven business, Casey shares how she turned a personal passion into a community staple. We explore the challenges of allergen-free recipe development, the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, and the vital role of community support. It’s an honest, thoughtful conversation about purpose, perseverance, and creating something that truly matters. 

Jodie from Frequency Sound 528

3210 Gulley Rd, Kelowna, BC V1W 4E5

In this episode, we dive into an inspiring and wide-ranging conversation with a multi-instrumentalist, producer, and studio owner whose life has been shaped by sound, family, and a deep connection to nature. From childhood jam sessions in a bustling household filled with violins, trumpets, and button accordions, to recording in a grassroots studio tucked away in the Okanagan countryside, our guest shares what it means to grow up musical—and stay musical.

We explore everything from the physical challenges of learning accordion as a kid, to the magic of playing music by ear, and the unexpected lessons learned on road trips with a violin in tow. The conversation expands beyond music into the world of plant medicine, foraging, and honoring ancient rhythms—from moon cycles to stargazing in Egypt.

This episode is a soulful blend of creativity, introspection, and earthy wisdom. Whether you're into music, nature, or just curious about how to live more in tune with your surroundings, there’s something here for you.

871 Coronation Ave

In this heartfelt and lively conversation, John and Laurie open up about their personal and professional journeys — from their early family roots to building a life and career together in the aesthetics industry. They share the highs and lows of starting a business as partners, the importance of maintaining work-life balance, and the deep, lasting relationships they've built with their clients over the years.