Refolkus

Folk Canada
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Music
  • Updated weekly

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. 6 days ago

    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

    37 min

  2. 3 Jun

    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

    32 min

  3. 27 May

    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

    40 min

  4. 20 May

    Mastering Sustainable Touring with Shawna Caspi

    In this week’s episode, we chat to Toronto-based folk roots singer-songwriter Shawna Caspi. We delve into the realities of touring in today’s music industry and how artists can build more sustainable touring practices. We also get into frugal touring tips, navigating rising travel costs, finding creative ways to save money on the road, and the importance of community, authenticity, and artist well-being while touring. Catch Shawna Caspi on one of her upcoming tour dates and connect with her on Facebook and her website. About Shawna CaspiShawna Caspi is a Toronto-based folk-roots singer-songwriter who can make a room full of people feel like they’re hanging out with an old friend in a plush corner booth. With her warm voice, clever and poetic lyrics, and intricate fingerstyle guitar accompaniment, she makes music that makes an authentic human connection, that conveys a sense of closeness, of being understood, of feeling less alone. Her latest album, Hurricane Coming, was nominated for a Canadian Folk Music Award and an Ontario Folk Music Award. ______________ 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

    31 min

  5. 13 May

    Artistry, Climate & the Human Condition with Ellorie McKnight

    In this week’s episode, we chat to Ellorie McKnight, a climate researcher and indie folk artist. We get into her journey as an artist and how she approaches songwriting as a way to explore both personal and collective experiences. We also dive into her climate work, and how it informs her artistry, using music as a way to invite reflection, connection, and engagement. It’s a thoughtful conversation about creating with intention and finding meaning through your work. Check out Ellorie’s book recommendation, ‘Amplify’ by Adam Met about how to leverage your audience (as a musician) into climate action. Catch Ellorie McKnight on one of her upcoming tour dates and connect with her on Instagram, her website and on Bandcamp. About Ellorie McKnight Ellorie McKnight (she/her) is a indie-folk singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and square dance entusiast living working and creating art on the territories of the Ta’an Kwach’an Council & Kwanlin Dun First Nation in Whitehorse, Yukon. Delicate vocals, dynamic melodies, and lyrics painting reflections of both the individual and collective human experience define her songwriting. Threads of her experiences as a climate researcher, deep feeler, and systems thinker are woven into her songs, inviting listeners to settle into emotion and contemplation about relationships, modernity, and what comes next. When she’s not singing, you can find her with her fiddle looking for the old-time jam. ______________ 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

    31 min

  6. 6 May

    Life on the Road & in the Garden with Mimi O'Bonsawin

    In this week’s episode, we’re joined by Mimi O’Bonsawin for a conversation that moves between life on the road and the deeper connections that shape her work as an artist. We get into her relationship to land and gardening, and how that feeds into her creativity and helps her stay grounded while navigating a demanding touring schedule. Mimi also shares what it’s like managing celiac disease on tour, opening up about the realities of food prep, travel, and trying to maintain your well-being in an environment that isn’t always built for it. Catch Mimi O’Bonsawin on one of her upcoming tour dates and connect with her on Instagram, Facebook and on her website. About Mimi O’Bonsawin Mimi O’Bonsawin  is a contemporary roots singer-songwriter born in Northeastern Ontario. She is  French Canadian & W8banaki (Abénaki), a member of the Odanak First Nation. Through her rhythm and story-driven songs, Mimi’s music embraces the beauty of the land. The ethereal quality of her music whisks you away with uplifting melodies and introspective lyrics that weave pop sensibilities with acoustic instrumentation. Layers of percussion and unexpected harmonies make you feel the music rather than just hear it. ______________ 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

    28 min

  7. 29 Apr

    The Art of Booking with Mark Steiner of GigSalad

    In this week's episode, we chat to Mark Steiner, founder of GigSalad. We get into his path through the music industry, from working as a booking agent to creating GigSalad. Drawing from his experience on the booking side, Mark shares insight into how talent gets matched with opportunities, what bookers are really looking for, and what actually makes artists stand out when it comes to getting booked. We also talk about creativity and ADHD, and how understanding the way you work can become a real advantage in a career that demands consistency and self-direction. It’s a grounded, honest look at the realities behind getting booked—and what it takes to build something that lasts. Find Mark Steiner on Instagram and be sure to check out GigSalad - listeners can enjoy 25% off any paid GigSalad membership by using the promo code FOLK25. About Mark Steiner Mark Andrew Steiner is the co-founder and CEO of GigSalad, the leading online marketplace that connects event planners with performers, entertainers, and service professionals across the United States and Canada. Since launching GigSalad in 2007, Mark has driven the company’s vision, business strategy, and customer‑first ethos, transforming a simple talent directory into a vibrant platform used by millions of event hosts and thousands of creative professionals nationwide.Before GigSalad, Mark spent more than three decades in the entertainment industry, beginning as an actor and film craft services provider and later founding and growing his own talent agency that represented hundreds of artists for major events, concerts, and cultural institutions. Mark’s entrepreneurial journey reflects his passion for empowering artists and service providers, backed by his commitment to innovation, strategic partnerships, and building a team culture rooted in practical creativity. He also earned recognition with the Goodwill Games Peace Prize for developing an educational product promoting racial equality among children. ______________ 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

    31 min

  8. 22 Apr

    Art as a Practice for Self-Reflection & Leadership with Paula Sofía

    In this episode, we dive into a grounded conversation with Guatemalan singer-songwriter Paula Sofía, exploring how she balances her work as both a performing artist and a leader in the arts. We get into what it really means to connect with an audience—how storytelling, vulnerability, and intimacy can turn a performance into something that truly resonates. Paula shares her perspective on songwriting, growth, and the evolving journey of an artist and we also touch on how she balances her own creative work with her leadership role with the Small World Music Incubator program. Find Paula Sofía on Instagram and be sure to check out her work with the Small World Music Incubator Program - applications for 2026 are open until May 3rd. About Paula Sofía Paula Sofía is a Guatemalan singer-songwriter and arts leader based in Toronto. Performing entirely in Spanish, she creates vibrant, intimate performances where storytelling, curiosity, and playful audience connection come together. Her music blends Latin American folk pop, inviting listeners into reflective and joyful moments that transcend language. Since releasing her debut album Quinto de Hora in 2020, she has performed at festivals and venues including Hillside, Folk Music Ontario, Sunfest, Drom Taberna, NXNE, Sofar Sounds, and the Aga Khan Museum. Alongside her music, Paula works in arts leadership, leading programs like the Small World Music Incubator, where she supports musicians through mentorship, community-building, and conversations around building sustainable artistic practices. ______________ 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

    22 min
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Trailer

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.

Information

  • Creator
    Folk Canada
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    82
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Folk Canda / Folk Music Ontario 2023
  • Show Website
    Refolkus

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