Off the Cuff

Town of Aurora
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Unfiltered, unexpected, and always real—Off the Cuff brings you the inspiring stories behind the local businesses driving our community forward. We keep it unscripted and unapologetic.  Each episode, we go beyond the storefronts of Aurora to uncover the passion, struggles, and successes of the entrepreneurs shaping our community. Whether you're a business owner looking for insight or just love discovering the talent behind our town, this podcast is for you.  New episodes drop every month. Tune in and let’s talk. 🎙️

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

    DEC 8

    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
  2. Engineering Trust: Garry Lee on Reinventing Product Compliance

    NOV 7

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

    OCT 3

    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
  4. Talking Trash, Making Change

    SEP 3

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

    AUG 6

    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

  6. JUL 2

    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
  7. Reviving Downtown: The Aurora Town Square Journey

    JUN 4

    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
  8. From Kitchen Table to CEO: Tracy Smith on Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

    MAY 7

    From Kitchen Table to CEO: Tracy Smith on Empowering Women Entrepreneurs

    In this episode of Off the Cuff with Vern, we sit down with Tracy Smith, founder of Kitchen Table CEOs — a boutique marketing agency helping women (and men) entrepreneurs find their voice and elevate their brand. Tracy shares her journey from corporate communications and full-time motherhood to becoming a sought-after writer, strategist, and community champion. Discover how she's turning kitchen table dreams into powerhouse brands, why she launched the sold-out “Oh Yes We Can” event, and what’s coming next with her new Women’s Health Summit. If you've ever wondered what it takes to build a business from your kitchen table and make it thrive, this episode is for you.

    41 min
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About

Unfiltered, unexpected, and always real—Off the Cuff brings you the inspiring stories behind the local businesses driving our community forward. We keep it unscripted and unapologetic.  Each episode, we go beyond the storefronts of Aurora to uncover the passion, struggles, and successes of the entrepreneurs shaping our community. Whether you're a business owner looking for insight or just love discovering the talent behind our town, this podcast is for you.  New episodes drop every month. Tune in and let’s talk. 🎙️

Information

  • Creator
    Town of Aurora
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Off the Cuff
  • Show Website
    Off the Cuff