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. 4d ago

    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

  2. May 20

    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

  3. May 13

    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

  4. May 6

    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

  5. Apr 29

    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

  6. Apr 22

    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

  7. Apr 15

    Wearing Many Hats Across the Music Industry with Lisa La Rocca

    In this episode, we sit down with Lisa La Rocca, a dynamic leader in the Canadian music scene, to explore her career across music, event production, and community building. From her early days as an intern to becoming an influential festival organizer and industry advocate, Lisa shares her journey and how she’s carved out her path. This episode is also filled with practical tips for emerging artists including Lisa’s perspective on navigating constant shifts in the industry. We also chat about the vibrant local music scene in Hamilton, Ontario, the host city of the 2026 Folk Canada Conference. Find Lisa La Rocca on Instagram and be sure to check out her work with Sonic Unyon Records and Supercrawl. About Lisa La Rocca Lisa La Rocca is Director of Operations at independent record label and events company Sonic Unyon Records in Hamilton. She founded the Fresh Up R&B Fest in 2022 and leads logistics on other Sonic Unyon produced festivals Supercrawl, Because Beer, Why Not Wine, as well as many other events. Lisa is currently chair of Hamilton’s Music Advisory Team, serves as a board member of the Hamilton-Halton-Brant Regional Tourism Organization and the Downtown Hamilton BIA. She is part of the JUNOs 2026 Host Committee and chairs the Host City Events and Night Economy Sub-Committee. She is a part-time PhD student in the Communication and Culture program at York University with a focus on Popular Music Studies, and holds an M.A. in Communication and New Media from McMaster University. ______________ 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

  8. Apr 8

    Leaning Into Adversity with Daniel Lew

    Welcome back to the fifth season of Refolkus. In this week's episode, we chat with artist Daniel Lew about how a life-changing hearing loss at 13 reshaped his relationship with music. He discusses his nonlinear approach to songwriting and recording, how self-help literature has influenced his creative mindset, and the ways he’s adapted his live performance to work with his physical limitations. It’s an empowering conversation about turning challenges into creative strengths. Find Daniel Lew online WebsiteBandcamp Instagram TikTok Facebook About Daniel Lew 13 years ago, Daniel Lew woke from a nightmare to find that he had lost hearing in one ear. This shocking experience re-directed his life and supercharged his love for music. Now, he writes introspective songs that are anchored by folk, and also surf between rock, soul, and hip hop. His melodies shine with honesty, merging soulful vocals with catchy guitar riffs, and groovy rhythms. He aims to sing every song as if it’s the last, and hopes his vibes help make the world a better place. His heartfelt performances have caught the attention of Ed Sheeran, Jacob Collier, and Dan Mangan. He has released 4 albums, received CBC radio play, showcased nationally and internationally, including as an official showcase artist at the Folk Canada Conference in 2025, and is showing no signs of slowing down. Currently, Daniel is delving back into writing and recording with a new album in the works for 2027. ______________ 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 Co-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

    27 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
    80
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Folk Canda / Folk Music Ontario 2023
  • Show Website
    Refolkus

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