Around Aurora

Town of Aurora
  • 0.0 (0)
  • BUSINESS

Discover the people and places powering Aurora. Around Aurora delivers upbeat, bite‑sized conversations that connect our streets, shops & community. New episodes drop every month. Tune in and let’s talk. 🎙️

  1. Aurora’s Quiet Heroes: A Conversation with Welcoming Arms’ Sally Freitas

    JAN 19

    Aurora’s Quiet Heroes: A Conversation with Welcoming Arms’ Sally Freitas

    In this episode, Vern sits down with Welcoming Arms’ Executive Director, Sally Freitas, for a behind‑the‑scenes look at the volunteers, services, and community spirit fueling one of Aurora’s most impactful support organizations.

    50 min
  2. Defining Style & Community: A Conversation with Deb Clark of Oakridge’s Fashions

    12/08/2025

    Defining Style & Community: A Conversation with Deb Clark of Oakridge’s Fashions

    In this episode of Off the Cuff, we sit down with Deb Clark, Founder and Owner of Oakridge’s Fashions, a beloved boutique that has been helping women look and feel their best since 1997. Deb shares her journey from a lifelong love of textiles to building a business rooted in individuality, exceptional service, and community support. Discover how Oakridge’s combines style expertise with a personal touch—both in-store and online—and why giving back to Aurora has always been part of their mission. If you’re passionate about fashion, entrepreneurship, or community impact, this episode is for you!

    54 min
  3. Engineering Trust: Garry Lee on Reinventing Product Compliance

    11/07/2025

    Engineering Trust: Garry Lee on Reinventing Product Compliance

    In this episode of Business Mega Lab, we sit down with Garry Lee, Founder and President of Megalab Inc., to explore how his engineering-first approach is transforming the product compliance landscape. From his early frustrations with transactional testing labs to building a state-of-the-art facility in Aurora, Ontario, Garry shares how Megalab became a trusted partner for innovators in automotive, MedTech, and high-tech manufacturing. Learn how his team helps companies accelerate certification, improve prototypes, and launch products faster—with precision, transparency, and collaboration at the core.

    43 min
  4. Fearless Futures: How STEM Minds Is Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders

    10/03/2025

    Fearless Futures: How STEM Minds Is Shaping Tomorrow’s Leaders

    In this inspiring episode of Off the Cuff, we sit down with Anu Bidani, CEO of STEM Minds, to explore how one woman’s vision is transforming education across the globe. From Aurora, Ontario to villages in India, STEM Minds is breaking barriers and building fearless, future-ready youth through cutting-edge STEM programs. Anu shares her journey from corporate executive to award-winning entrepreneur, her passion for innovation, and why Aurora’s thriving ecosystem was the perfect launchpad for her mission. Tune in for a powerful conversation about leadership, learning, and the limitless potential of young minds.

    35 min
  5. Talking Trash, Making Change

    09/03/2025

    Talking Trash, Making Change

    In this episode of Off the Cuff, we sit down with Hugh Caines, CEO of CleanRiver Recycling Solutions, to explore the human side of sustainability leadership. From his early days in process improvement to his current mission of zero waste, Hugh shares how empowering people is the key to transforming organizations—and the planet. We dive into CleanRiver’s roots in Aurora, Ontario, and how community, design, and purpose-driven innovation have shaped a company that’s redefining what it means to divert waste from landfill. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build a recycling program that actually works, this episode is your blueprint.

    37 min
  6. The Pulse of Progress: Stewart McLaren and the Soul of Almac

    08/06/2025

    The Pulse of Progress: Stewart McLaren and the Soul of Almac

    In this episode of Off the Cuff, host Vern Cunningham sits down with Stewart McLaren, the driving force behind Almac Industrial Systems—one of Aurora’s most influential businesses. From pioneering material handling innovations to expanding into transportation solutions, Stewart’s journey is a masterclass in vision and resilience. The conversation delves into how local culture fuels enterprise, the importance of collaboration in shaping York Region’s economic landscape, and Stewart’s lasting impact through philanthropy and civic dedication. It’s a deep dive into leadership rooted in purpose, progress, and hometown pride.

    39 min

  7. 07/02/2025

    Steeped in Community: The Saltbox Story

    In this episode of Off the Cuff, we sit down with Sandy, the heart and soul behind Saltbox Cafe—Aurora’s cozy new coffee haven. Nestled in a 162-year-old saltbox-style house with East Coast character and deep historical roots, Saltbox is more than just a cafe: it’s a warm and welcoming space where neighbours gather, stories flow, and every latte is served with a side of connection. Sandy shares the story of how Saltbox came to be, the inspiration behind its homey vibe, and what it’s meant to watch Aurorans embrace her vision with open arms and open mugs.

    41 min
  8. Reviving Downtown: The Aurora Town Square Journey

    06/04/2025

    Reviving Downtown: The Aurora Town Square Journey

    We’re going Off the Cuff with Phil Rose from Aurora Town Square—the heart of Aurora’s cultural revival!  From its Grand Opening celebrations to its role as a cultural and economic catalyst, Phil shares how this space is more than just bricks and mortar—it’s a living, breathing symbol of Aurora’s future.  Hear how this downtown hub is bringing people together through creativity, community, and connection.

    35 min
See All (15)

Trailer

About

Discover the people and places powering Aurora. Around Aurora delivers upbeat, bite‑sized conversations that connect our streets, shops & community. New episodes drop every month. Tune in and let’s talk. 🎙️

Information

  • Creator
    Town of Aurora
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    15
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Around Aurora
  • Show Website
    Around Aurora