Bring Back The Porch

Bernie Leahy, Brian Konrad, Curtis Nash, Lynnette Schneider

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. 

  1. 2d ago

    Battery Fires: Are You At Risk?

    Brian had a visit on the Porch with Kelli Ireland, Fire and Life Safety Educator with Fire and Emergency Services Medicine Hat. They began by discussing the dangers of lithium-ion batteries, fire safety tips, and how to prevent battery-related fires at home and in the community. Chapters 00:00 — Introduction 01:23 — Lithium battery fires are on the rise 02:14 — Why lithium-ion batteries overheat 03:37 — Common devices that can catch fire 04:07 — Use the correct charging cord 06:55 — Don’t charge large batteries near exits 08:17 — Don’t leave devices charging overnight 10:24 — Thermal runaway explained 11:16 — Never charge devices under pillows 12:33 — How to recycle dead batteries safely 14:59 — Prevent battery terminals from touching 15:55 — Fire extinguisher basics 17:41 — Why smoke alarms matter 20:32 — Close bedroom doors at night 23:27 — Fall fire risks and careless smoking 25:37 — Candle safety tips 27:57 — Free home fire safety inspections Lithium-ion batteries power many of our everyday devices, but they can also be dangerous if not handled properly. Kelli Ireland, a Fire and Life Safety Educator, shares crucial insights on preventing battery-related fires and the importance of recycling.   The conversation begins by highlighting the unpredictability of lithium-ion batteries. These batteries can overheat, leading to dangerous fires. "The battery itself can very easily overheat, creating heat faster than it can dissipate," she explains. The compact design of these batteries can turn them into a mini bomb when they malfunction.   To prevent overheating, Kelli provides several guidelines:   - **Use the Right Charger**: Always use the charger that comes with your device. Off-brand chargers can send the wrong voltage, causing fires. "Over 300 Apple chargers are on the market, but only three are certified," she warns. - **Charge Outside**: For larger devices like e-bikes and lawnmowers, charge them outside and away from doorways to prevent fires from spreading into your home. - **Monitor Charging**: Avoid leaving devices charging overnight. Set a timer to check on them instead.   The Importance of Recycling Batteries   Kelli emphasizes that all batteries, including AA and AAA, should be recycled properly. Fires in garbage trucks due to compacted batteries are a growing concern. "It's important that all batteries get recycled," she states. For safe storage, use a plastic container to avoid sparks and explosions. "If we can take away that oxygen from getting to those batteries, we're less likely to spread the fire."   By following these safety tips and being mindful of how we handle and recycle batteries, we can ensure a safer environment for ourselves and our communities. Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!  Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

  2. 4d ago

    Recovery Is a Journey: Hope, Resilience & the Power of Community with Derrick Lillico

    In this episode, Derrick Lillico from Our Collective Journey gets real about addiction, mental health, recovery, and the power of community. From his own journey of recovery to helping others navigate the challenges of addiction and mental health, Derrick shares some powerful insights into: 🧠 The growing impact of social media on youth mental health  💪 Building resilience in youth and adults  🤝 Why community and connection can be part of the healing process  🔥 The reality of lifelong recovery and managing cravings  ❤️ Why sharing your story can give someone else hope Sometimes, the right conversation at the right moment can change everything. Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!  Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

  3. 6d ago

    Amazing Race for Hunger with the Supp Queens

    Today on Bring Back The Porch, The Supp Queens share their experience preparing for the upcoming Amazing Race for Hunger, highlighting their fundraising efforts, challenges, and motivations. They discuss the event's organization, challenges, and how community support can make a difference. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Supp Queens and the Race 02:16 Orientation and Tour of the Root Cellar 04:02 Race Day Details and Challenges 05:24 Training and Challenges for the Race 07:18 Fundraising Goals and Current Status 08:44 How Donations Help on Race Day 10:26 Personal Motivations for Participating 11:18 How to Support the Sup Queens If you are interested in donating here is the link: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/medicine-hat-and-district-food-bank-1992-association/p2p/raceforhunger2026/team/supp-queens We welcomed Haylie and Serena, the dynamic duo known as the Supp Queens, who are gearing up for the Amazing Race for Hunger. As newcomers to this fundraising event, they shared their journey and motivations, giving us a glimpse into what drives them to take on this challenge. Neither Haylie nor Serena had participated in the Amazing Race for Hunger before, but they were inspired by their local gym, Back Alley Fitness, to join in. Serena recounted how she was "roped in" by a gym owner, who enthusiastically informed her of their participation.  They’ve been training, albeit reluctantly, with a focus on building their endurance. "I don’t really run, but if it’s for a good cause, I’ll do it," Haylie admitted, highlighting the passion behind their motivation. Haylie and Serena are aiming to raise $5,000 for their team, a goal that reflects the overall ambition of the event to surpass previous years' fundraising achievements. As of now, they’ve raised $380, but they’re optimistic about reaching their target.  "We’re hoping this podcast will help raise more funds," Serena said, underscoring their commitment to the cause.  The Amazing Race for Hunger will take place on August 22nd, and while the exact challenges remain a mystery, the excitement is palpable. They shared that participants might need to bring swimsuits and have a cell phone on hand for scavenger hunts and unexpected challenges. If you’d like to support the Supp Queens on their fundraising journey, you can donate through their Instagram links. Every bit helps, and for each ten dollars raised, they’ll be doing a set of Bulgarian split squats as part of their training, a creative twist they call "Split Hunger." Haylie shared that giving back to the community holds personal significance for her, as she has benefited from the services provided by the Root Cellar in the past.  It’s clear that the journey of the Supp Queens is about more than just racing; it's about community, support, and making a difference. Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

  4. Aug 8

    World Cup: A Once-In-A-Lifetime Experience

    Today on Bring Back The Porch Brian sits down with Marco Jensen, who shares his incredible experience at the World Cup. During their conversation Marco spends time sharing some stories from his World Cup adventure, highlighting cultural interactions, fan behaviour, and the impact of sport on bringing people together. Discover insights into international football, fan culture, and the significance of the tournament. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Marco Jensen's World Cup Experience 01:48 Why Marco Followed the Netherlands Team 04:03 Fan Interactions and Cultural Exchanges 06:00 The Spirit of Sportsmanship Across Borders 08:00 Fan Parades and Celebrations in Kansas City 09:45 The Impact of Politics and Controversies 11:52 The Role of Fan Culture and Behaviour 14:09 The Influence of Media and TV Shows like Ted Lasso 15:59 Memorable Moments and Personal Highlights 17:56 The Future of International Football and World Cups We dive into an incredible journey through the recent World Cup experience with Marco Jensen. From the vibrant atmosphere to unexpected friendships, Marco shares his adventures that transcend borders and rivalries. Marco's trip to the World Cup was more than just watching games; it was a celebration of unity in diversity. He recalls the first match against Japan, where he and a Japan fan exchanged handshakes and congratulations on the goals scored. "It was fantastic!" he says, reminiscing about the two-two tie that left both sides cheering. For fans of the Netherlands, orange is not just a colour; it represents their identity. Marco explains the historical roots of this vibrant colour, tracing it back to the royal family.   "When you see sporting events, you’ll see a lot of orange, especially at the World Cup," he explains, highlighting how fans wear this colour with pride. Marco brought along a stuffed lion named Leoche, his travel buddy, which added a whimsical touch to his photos. From mischievous antics at the Johnson Space Center to delightful snapshots at various match locations, Leoche became a symbol of fun and adventure.   "It made me look at things differently," Marco said, recalling how Leoche inspired creative photo opportunities. The World Cup showcased a different side of fan culture that dispels the negativity often associated with football hooliganism. Marco pointed out that at the international level, fans unite, leaving behind their rivalries to celebrate the love of the game.Marco believes the World Cup has ignited a newfound interest in football across North America. He shared that more kids are playing football than hockey, baseball, and American football combined in Medicine Hat, highlighting the sport's accessibility and growing popularity. As he aptly put it, **"You just need a pair of runners and some shins to play."** This journey through the World Cup reminds us that while we may cheer for different teams, our shared love for the sport can create bonds that transcend differences. Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!  Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

  5. Aug 8

    Riding for Christmas: Bikes, Brotherhood & Giving Back

    Rev your engines and get ready to make a difference! Today we're talking about an event that brings together motorcycles, great music, good food, and an even better cause. The 40th annual Santa Claus Fund Toy Run. From a pancake breakfast in Irvine to a parade ride through Medicine Hat and a BBQ at the Stampede Grounds, it's all about raising money to help local families in need this Christmas. Whether you ride on two wheels or just want to support the community, this is one event you won't want to miss. Let's get into it! Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

  6. Aug 6

    Redcliff's Small Town Pride

    Tonight on Bring Back The Porch, Redcliff Mayor Chris Czember shares insights on local infrastructure projects, community identity, and future plans for the town, highlighting the importance of strategic planning and community engagement. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and episode overview 01:22 Redcliff's community identity and small-town feel 03:00 Infrastructure audits and recent upgrades 05:35 Maintaining town identity and avoiding amalgamation 06:58 Prioritizing infrastructure projects and citizen input 08:47 Fifth Street infrastructure program and funding 10:12 Balancing infrastructure repair and budget constraints 12:17 Regional cooperation and economic development 13:21 Yard and property standards in Redcliff 14:42 Upcoming community events and festivals 16:00 Potential changes in policing services 17:58 Support for the local Legion and its anniversary 19:51 Future projects and long-term planning 20:29 School development and infrastructure progress 22:12 Housing development and land sales 23:00 How to follow town council meetings Mayor Czember reflected on the importance of Redcliff's unique character, emphasizing how surveys reveal that citizens cherish their small-town feel. “What do you like about Redcliff? It’s the own identity, the small town feel,” he noted. This sentiment resonates strongly in the community, especially as discussions around amalgamation have surfaced in the past. The mayor shared insights into the ongoing infrastructure audit mandated for all municipalities. This audit aims to assess the condition of town-owned buildings and prioritize necessary repairs. The town hall, museum, and recreational facilities were highlighted, with the museum identified as needing significant upgrades.  With a budget that must stretch to cover repairs across approximately 250 city blocks, he acknowledged that maintaining infrastructure is a constant challenge. “Every municipality has an infrastructure deficit, meaning we're not repairing as much as is deteriorating,” he explained. The ongoing Fifth Street infrastructure project, a significant undertaking with a budget of approximately $2.5 million, exemplifies these efforts. Mayor Czember's reflections underscore the balance between maintaining Redcliff's identity and addressing its infrastructural challenges. As he aptly put it, managing these demands requires careful prioritization and community involvement. Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!  Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

  7. Aug 2

    Secrets of Successful Local Gardening

    Join us as Marilyn Kusler from the Medicine Hat Horticultural Association shares insights into gardening, the history of local gardening communities, and tips for sustainable gardening practices in changing climates. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:02 Historical Gardening in Medicine Hat 02:04 Getting Started in Gardening and Education Pathways 03:44 The Role of Gardening Associations Today 06:41 Differences Between Agriculture and Horticulture 07:53 Traditional vs. Modern Gardening Knowledge 10:20 The Ewart Duggan Garden and Heritage Plants 12:28 Climate Change and Its Effect on Gardening Zones 14:43 Adapting to Weather Extremes and Pest Cycles 17:24 Upcoming Fall Activities and Community Engagement 18:17 House Plants and Indoor Gardening Trends 19:36 City Parks, Urban Green Spaces, and Future Planning We explore the rich history of gardening in Medicine Hat,  through an engaging conversation with Marilyn Kusler, the President of the Medicine Hat Horticultural Association. For many Hatters, gardening has been a cherished tradition for decades. The area's favourable soil and climate have made it a haven for gardeners. Marilyn shares her personal story, emphasizing how her upbringing on a family farm influenced her love for gardening. Growing up, she assisted her mother in tending to both vegetables and flowers, which sparked a lifelong interest in horticulture. With over 130 active members, the association bridges the gap between seasoned gardeners and newcomers, facilitating knowledge sharing through meetings and guest speakers. These gatherings offer invaluable insights into various gardening topics, from pest management to ethical interactions with local wildlife. A common challenge for gardening associations is attracting younger members. Marilyn highlights the need for outreach to younger generations, who often juggle busy schedules filled with family and activities. The association strives to create a welcoming environment where everyone, regardless of age or experience, can learn and share their gardening knowledge. Marilyn reflects on the evolution of gardening practices over the years. While some traditional methods have faded, many gardeners still seek out old-fashioned tips and tricks. For instance, she shares a recent experiment with using baking soda around tomato plants, inspired by advice from a fellow gardener. Such anecdotes illustrate how gardening knowledge is passed down through generations, blending historical wisdom with modern practices. Gardening is not just about growing plants; it's also a therapeutic activity that fosters a deep connection to the earth. Marilyn expresses how tending to her garden offers solace and satisfaction, especially as she ages. The act of nurturing plants provides a sense of achievement and peace, making gardening a valuable pursuit for mental well-being. Our visit with Marilyn offers a glimpse into the vibrant gardening community in Medicine Hat. From its rich history to the challenges of modern gardening, her insights inspire both seasoned gardeners and newcomers to embrace this fulfilling hobby. Whether you're growing vegetables or flowers, gardening is a beautiful way to connect with nature and others.  For more information about the Medicine Hat Horticultural Association and to join their efforts, check out their website. Happy gardening! Resources Medicine Hat Horticultural Association - https://medhathort.ca/ Olds College - Horticulture Program - https://www.oldscollege.ca Heritage Plants and Seeds - https://www.heritage-plants.com/ Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

  8. Aug 1

    Exploring Bocce: With Gavin Harker

    (Editors Note: Todays Episode has some warbley sound but we cleaned it up the best we could. We hope the context of the episode out-ways the imperfect audio). Today, we're coming to you from the Big Marble Go Centre, where bocce courts are being set up for the upcoming Special Olympics Canada Summer Games. The opening ceremonies are just 10 days away! We had the pleasure of chatting with Gavin Harker, a passionate ambassador for the games, who shares his experiences as an athlete and a bocce player. Meet Gavin Gavin is one of six athlete ambassadors that have been promoting the games all around our community. Gavin has been part of the Special Olympics for three years, participating in sports like curling, basketball, bowling, and, of course, bocce. His enthusiasm is contagious as he describes how much joy he finds in being around other athletes. "It's very fun being around like other athletes, being around like other people. I’m very excited for this!" Learning Bocce As we step onto the bocce court, Gavin begins to teach us the fundamentals of the game.   "First, I'm gonna throw this. Call it the Piccolina. Just a little ball." The objective? Get the larger ball as close to the Piccolina as possible. Gavin explains, "Then you hope it doesn't go over that line." The game is simple yet strategic, and as Gavin guides us through the nuances, it becomes clear that bocce is as much about skill as it is about fun.  The Game in Action As we play, laughter fills the air. Gavin encourages us with tips on throwing techniques and strategies.  "You'd basically just throw it like a bowling ball if you have a regular bowl." The camaraderie among players is palpable, and Gavin’s infectious spirit makes it easy to see why bocce is such a beloved sport in the community.  The slogan of the Games is “We shine together.” It was very apparent that Gavin was going to help us to not only learn the game but he made sure that we had fun together while playing. Final Thoughts Gavin's journey in Bocce is a testament to the joy of sports and community. As we wrap up our game, we can't help but feel inspired by his passion and the spirit of the Special Olympics. If you’re curious about bocce or want to join the fun, consider getting involved in your local sports programs. Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

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About

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. 

Information

  • Creator
    Bernie Leahy, Brian Konrad, Curtis Nash, Lynnette Schneider
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    206
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Bring Back The Porch
  • Show Website
    Bring Back The Porch

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