Refolkus

Folk Canada

Refolkus is an original podcast by Folk Canada. Each episode features guests from all areas of the music industry for good conversations and informative chats, with a focus on folk.

  1. 4d ago

    Art, Identity & Belonging with Ahmed Moneka

    In this week’s episode we chat with multidisciplinary artist, Ahmed Moneka. We discuss his journey from Iraq to Canada and how music has shaped both his life and his activism. Ahmed shares how he blends his Afro Sufi heritage with jazz, folk, and contemporary influences to tell stories of identity, migration, and resilience. We also discuss the power of music to build cultural connections, promote peace, and create space for love, belonging, and social change. Connect with Ahmed Moneka online and be sure to follow him on  Instagram, Facebook and Tiktok to stay up to date. About Ahmed Moneka Juno-nominated Ahmed Moneka draws on his Afro Sufi heritage to deliver a joyful and transcendent mix of African grooves and Arabic folk melodies, informed by contemporary funk, soul and jazz. Ahmed first arrived in Toronto in 2015 from Iraq. Now, reflecting on this journey as an actor, activist and musician, he leads an all-star global ensemble, drawing his audience into an ecstatic celebration of life, performing across Canada and the U.S., as well as in Colombia, Chile, Morocco and South Korea. ______________ Tune in to the latest episodes of Refolkus, featuring latest music releases from Folk Canada members and Refolkus guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops. Presented by Folk Canada Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac Artwork by Jaymie Karn

  2. Jul 15

    From Artist to Agent with Sage McBride

    In this episode we chat with musician, booking agent and grant-writer, Sage McBride. Drawing on her experience as both a touring artist and industry professional, Sage shares practical advice on everything from tour routing and self-booking to writing stronger grant applications. We also talk about what makes a showcase stand out, why live videos matter, and how collaboration can open new doors for artists. Connect with Sage McBride on Instagram and at Midnight Agency. Also, be sure to check out her band, Shred Kelly and catch them on their run of Canadian dates this summer. About Sage McBride Sage McBride is a Canadian booking agent, musician, and grant writer based in Kenora, ON. She works at Midnight Agency, helping artists expand opportunities across North America through strategic touring and career development. Sage is also a member of the alternative folk-rock band Shred Kelly, contributing to their national and international success. As a grant writer and coach, she has secured funding through programs like FACTOR and Music BC, helping artists achieve their goals. Passionate about live music, Sage volunteers with Knox on 2nd in Fernie, supporting sustainable touring and creating accessible opportunities for artists and audiences alike. ______________ Tune in to the latest episodes of Refolkus, featuring latest music releases from Folk Canada members and Refolkus guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops. Presented by Folk Canada Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac Artwork by Jaymie Karn

  3. Jul 8

    The Art of Booking Winnipeg Folk Festival with Chris Frayer

    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. Don’t miss Winnipeg Folk Festival 2026 happening July 9th-12th. For more information on Winnipeg Folk Festival, tickets and on their year-round concert series, visit their website and follow them on Instagram and Facebook. About Chris Frayer Chris Frayer has been active in the Canadian music industry for over 27 years, serving as Artistic Director at the West End Cultural Centre and Jazz Winnipeg, and for the past 21 years as Artistic Director of the Winnipeg Folk Festival. In addition to leading the festival’s four-day event each July, he oversees its year-round concert series and the Young Performers Program. ______________ Tune in to the latest episodes of Refolkus, featuring latest music releases from Folk Canada members and Refolkus guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops. Presented by Folk Canada Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac Artwork by Jaymie Karn

  4. Jun 24

    The Art of Booking Sunfest with Mercedes Caxaj

    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 engagement shape the festival’s mission and create opportunities for artists and audiences to discover music from across the globe. Don’t miss Sunfest 2026 happening July 9th-12th in London, Ontario. For more information on Sunfest and their year-round concert series, visit their website and follow them on Instagram and Facebook. Folk Canada is also sending a big congratulations to Alfredo Caxaj, Founder and Artistic Co-Director of Sunfest who recently received the Order of Canada! About Mercedes Caxaj Mercedes Caxaj is Artistic Co-Director of Sunfest in London, Ontario, presenting thoughtful, innovative global arts programming year-round. Sunfest, a free-admission global music and jazz festival, will celebrate its 32nd edition July 9–12, 2026, in downtown London’s Victoria Park. She also collaborates with national and international partners, including international export missions, to promote underrepresented artists in global music markets. ______________ Tune in to the latest episodes of Refolkus, featuring latest music releases from Folk Canada members and Refolkus guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops. Presented by Folk Canada Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac Artwork by Jaymie Karn

  5. Jun 17

    DIY Tour Promotion & Digital Marketing with Mick Janzen

    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 reach, create opportunities, and build a sustainable career. Catch Mick and The Janzen Boys on one of their upcoming tour dates and connect with them on Instagram, Facebook and their website. About Mick JanzenMick Janzen is a Winnipeg-based folk artist, touring musician, and digital marketer. As a member of the folk trio The Janzen Boys, Mick has cultivated a global fanbase through independent touring, storytelling, and grassroots digital strategies. With a marketing background and a DIY spirit, he has fuelled viral campaigns and consistent sell-outs for The Janzen Boys across Canada and the U.S., and has also worked with artists, such as Ron Pope, on tour promotion ads. Over the last two years, Mick has moved 13,000+ CDs, grown an email list of 8,000 subscribers, and sold out dozens of self-promoted headline shows—including 350-seat rooms in Thunder Bay and the historic Lunenburg Opera House. ______________ Tune in to the latest episodes of Refolkus, featuring latest music releases from Folk Canada members and Refolkus guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops. Presented by Folk Canada Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac Artwork by Jaymie Karn

  6. Jun 10

    The Art of Booking with Nicole Rochefort of AIM

    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 career that leaves room for both growth and rest. Interested in working with Nicole? Connect with her at the AIM Booking Agency website or on Instagram or Facebook. About Nicole RochefortNicole (Niki) Rochefort is a respected leader in Canada’s performing arts industry and the founder of AIM Booking Agency. This independent firm has been shaping the national touring landscape for over 15 years. Nicole plays a vital role in strengthening Canada’s touring circuits, representing award-winning musicians and performing artists at festivals and arts centres nationwide. A fixture at showcase conferences across the country, she is a dedicated advocate for her artists and a key collaborator in building bridges between performers and presenters. A distinguished leader in the Canadian performing arts, Nicole is a recipient of the Ontario Presents Agent of the Year award and a nominee for the same honour at the 2026 Live Music Awards. Nicole currently co-chairs the Ontario Creates Music Industry Advisory Committee, sits on the board of Ontario Presents, and is an active member of the CAPACOA Advocacy Committee—all central to her mission of ensuring a sustainable future for the Canadian arts. ______________ Tune in to the latest episodes of Refolkus, featuring latest music releases from Folk Canada members and Refolkus guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops. Presented by Folk Canada Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac Artwork by Jaymie Karn

  7. Jun 3

    Harnessing Criticism to Create with AHI

    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 upcoming tour and connect with him on Instagram, Facebook and on his website. About AHI With an unmistakable voice like “gravel on silk”, and a colourful landscape of tightly-crafted lyrics, driving rhythms and uplifting melodies, Canadian singer-songwriter  AHI (pronounced “eye”) is creating folk music the whole world can sing to. From charting on Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon, to delivering captivating performances on CBS & NPR Tiny Desk and touring internationally with Mandy Moore, Lauren Daigle and Milow, AHI has earned over 100 Million streams worldwide, propelling him to the forefront of today’s Folk/Roots music scene.On the international stage, AHI has received glowing reviews from Billboard (US) and Rolling Stone (Germany), and his voice has been featured by Starbucks, Ralph Lauren, IKEA, and many more. Meanwhile, back home in Canada, AHI has earned multiple JUNO Award nominations and been recognized by the prestigious Polaris Prize, establishing him as one of Canada’s most exciting new voices. ______________ Tune in to the latest episodes of Refolkus, featuring latest music releases from Folk Canada members and Refolkus guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops. Presented by Folk Canada Hosted by Rosalyn Dennett Produced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn Dennett Mixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod Cabin Theme music “Amsterdam” by King Cardiac Artwork by Jaymie Karn

  8. May 27

    On Life, Love & Music with Natalie MacMaster

    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 importance of passing traditional music on to future generations. We also dive into Natalie’s new bestselling book  ‘I Have a Love Story’, which is available wherever books are sold. Be sure to catch Natalie live on her upcoming tour and connect with her on Instagram, Facebook and on her website. About Natalie MacMaster Hailing from Cape Breton Island, Natalie received her first fiddle at the age of nine, launching a career that has lasted for over three decades. Her first recording was released when she was only sixteen years old. Fifteen albums later, Natalie is a Grammy nominee and a two-time Juno winner. Natalie has received a host of awards in the US and Canada. She has recorded and toured with some of the world’s greatest performing artists, including Allison Krauss, Carlos Santana, The Chieftains, Thomas Dolby, Raffi, Sharon Lois & Bram and Yo-Yo Ma. In 2002, she married renowned fiddler Donnell Leahy of the Leahy family band and moved to Lakefield, Ontario. They have seven children and have performed and recorded together as a duo, occasionally including their children, who also play fiddle, in their performances. ‘I Have a Love Story’ is Natalie’s first self-written publication. ______________ Tune in to the latest episodes of Refolkus, featuring latest music releases from Folk Canada members and Refolkus guests, now broadcasting on CKCU FM 93.1 in Ottawa, CKUW 95.9 FM in Winnipeg and CFBX 92.5 FM in Kamloops. Presented by Folk CanadaHosted by Rosalyn DennettProduced by Kayla Nezon and Rosalyn DennettMixed by Jordan Moore of The Pod CabinTheme music “Amsterdam” by King CardiacArtwork by Jaymie Karn

5
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

Refolkus is an original podcast by Folk Canada. Each episode features guests from all areas of the music industry for good conversations and informative chats, with a focus on folk.

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