Secret Sunshine

Dominic Girard
  • 5.0 (5)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Meet the folks who make the most of living on British Columbia's Sunshine Coast.

  1. Cookie Freak (Jess at Sweet Emotion Baking)

    12/10/2025

    Cookie Freak (Jess at Sweet Emotion Baking)

    Thanks as ever to Nicole at Nico Coastal Homes for sponsoring this season. Whether your planning to buy or sell a home on the Coast, give Nico a ring. She’s a top seller for good reason! In this episode, Jess Procter, owner and founder of Sweet Emotion Baking in Gibsons, BC. Jess shares her journey from home baker to small business owner, and spills the tea on who her customers are, why they’re obsessed with her cookies, and why they might be calling her at 11 pm for a cookie fix. But we also get deep into it and unpack why a cookie isn’t just a cookie, but a sweet treat that connects Jess, giving her fulfillment from feeding her community. We also make a test batch of top secret Secret Sunshine Cookies. And if you’re quick on the draw, you can buy one of these cookies for yourself wherever they’re found. (hint: try the Butchers, the Cheese Co. and Roberts Creek Wellbeing. Hear about, Jess’s “no raisin” policy, midnight baking marathons, the therapeutic power of baking during tough times, especially while parenting through lockdowns, and a bunch more. Connect with Jess on Instagram (@sweet.emotion.baking) and with me (@dom_ideas).  If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and review the podcast. Support local businesses like Sweet Emotion Baking, and don’t forget to treat yourself (and someone you love) to a cookie! After all, a cookie is just “a hug for inside your body.” Secret Sunshine is produced by Dominic Girard at Handover Media. The music is from Max Henry.

    34 min
  2. Allan Shoots His Shot (Air Pistol Champ Allan Harding)

    11/19/2025

    Allan Shoots His Shot (Air Pistol Champ Allan Harding)

    Have you checked out the podcast’s video editions on YouTube and Spotify? Let me know what you think! Allan Harding is a National Champion in air pistol shooting, and I met up with him at the Pinecone Range shortly after returning from a competition win in Ontario (a Team Gold and a Bronze for himself). Allan’s primary focus is the 10m discipline, but he showcased his 50m skills when we met up. In our conversation, he shares more about how he started his lifelong pursuit of excellence in this sport. Allan talks about the mental discipline required for high-level competition, the challenges of returning to shooting after a long break, and his audacious goal of qualifying for the 2028 LA Olympics. The conversation delves into the role shooting plays as an anchor through life’s hits and misses, the importance of mindfulness and focus, and the unique satisfaction found in moments of perfect precision.  Find Allan on Instagram and on his website. This podcast is supported by Gold Medal sponsor, Nico Coastal Homes, and Nicole will support you just as winningly in any real estate decisions.  The show theme is by Max Henry. Secret Sunshine is made by Dominic Girard at Handover Media. You can also find me and the show on Instagram. Love the show? Have you given it a rating and review on Apple Podcasts? Help spread the word if you can - I truly appreciate all the feedback.

    27 min
  3. Graffiti Tour (Visual Artist Ben Tour)

    10/29/2025

    Graffiti Tour (Visual Artist Ben Tour)

    Remember, find video editions of this season’s episodes on YouTube and Spotify. This particular episode is worth a look. Ben Tour is a visual artist based on the Sunshine Coast. His giant, graffiti-style murals can be found in various spaces on the Coast. I invited him to the graffiti-filled wall at the Gibsons Curling Club for a conversation about graffiti, art, and community. Recorded while literally painting over a wall, the episode explores the culture and controversy of graffiti, the evolution of Ben’s artistic journey, and the role that public art, condoned or not, can play in shaping local identity. We go over: Ben’s background: Growing up in Toronto, discovering graffiti, and moving to the Sunshine Coast. The difference between legal walls, productions, and “bombing” in graffiti culture. The love-hate relationship communities have with graffiti and how it shapes public spaces. Stories from Ben’s early days as a graffiti artist, including his first tag and the rush of painting at night. The impact of environment and community on Ben’s art, and how nature has influenced his recent work. The importance of self-directed art projects and balancing client work with personal expression.. The ephemeral nature of graffiti, respect among artists, and the unspoken rules of the scene. How graffiti and skateboarding serve as gateways to the arts for young people. Reflections on getting in trouble, learning from mistakes, and the enduring desire to create. Connect with your community: See more of Ben’s work and commission him for your wall on Instagram Secret Sunshine Sponsor Nico Coastal Homes is a top realtor on the Coast and one you’ll love working with when buying or selling a home. Find her at nicolearnett.ca Both Ben and Nico have hosted art openings at The Kube. And Nico’s project was the focus for Secret Sunshine’s very first episode. Go learn more about Nico’s artsy side by listening her episode “Nico’s Weird Little Art Show”. Find it on Apple Podcasts, on Spotify, or wherever you get your pods. Thanks for listening! The podcast is produced by Dominic Girard at Handover Media. The show’s original theme is composed and performed by Max Henry. This episode features a custom show logo courtesy of Ben Tour. Special thanks to the Gibsons Curling Club (of which I am a Board member).  Help me grow the show! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe (follow), rate, and share the podcast with someone you think would enjoy it. Got feedback or want to suggest a guest? Reach out by finding me at secretsunshine.ca or secretsunshine@handovermedia.fm

    27 min
  4. New Butcher's on the Block (The Sechelt Butcher)

    10/08/2025

    New Butcher's on the Block (The Sechelt Butcher)

    Episode Summary: In this episode of Secret Sunshine, I chat with Adam and Shannon Vanderwoerd, the husband-and-wife team behind The Gibsons Butcher, to talk about their journey from running a single beloved butcher shop to opening a second location, The Sechelt Butcher. The conversation explores the challenges, community support, and serendipity that have shaped their business and lives on the Sunshine Coast. The Sechelt Butcher opens Friday, October 10th at Tsain-Ko Mall on Sechelt First Nations territory. We talk about: The origins of The Gibsons Butcher and the decision to expand to SecheltCommunity support and the importance of local relationshipsThe transition from corporate coffee to local entrepreneurshipOvercoming challenges in opening a new store, from financial risk to construction delaysThe role of family, including their daughter’s involvement and Indigenous heritageThe artistry of butchery and creating a welcoming, community-focused shopReflections on opening day, business philosophy, and giving back to the community Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Nico Coastal Homes. If you’re buying or selling on the Coast, connect with Nico at nicolearnett.ca and find out why she's one of the top realtors serving our community. Remember, you can: Watch video editions of the podcast on YouTube and Spotify, or listen on Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast platform.Like, rate, review, and subscribe to support the show.Learn more and find all episodes at secretsunshine.ca. Credits: Produced by Dominic Girard at Handover Media. Original theme by Max Henry.

    33 min
  5. Tyler's Hack Job (Hackfish Magazine)

    09/17/2025

    Tyler's Hack Job (Hackfish Magazine)

    What is Hackfish? Can anyone define a word that is designed to mean everything – and nothing – at once? Volume Two of Hackfish Magazine is about to hit the Coast. So, I sit down with Tyler Lepore, the creative force behind Hackfish Magazine, a unique, community-driven zine on the Sunshine Coast. We talk about origins of Hackfish, Tyler’s journey as a metal fabricator turned magazine creator, and the quirky, analog spirit that defines both the magazine and the Coast itself. Along the way, hear about the wonderful misadventures Hackfish mag underwent when launching Volume One last year. We cover: What is Hackfish? Exploring the meaning and philosophy behind the name and the magazine. Tyler’s background: from metal fabrication to zine publishing. The creative process: how Hackfish Magazine is made, from collecting stories and art to hacking up old newspaper boxes for distribution. Community engagement: the importance of local involvement, user submissions, and the “barnacle people” of the Coast. The analog experience: why print matters, and the joy of finding a Hackfish box in the wild. Memorable features: “Naked Cord” photo spread, quirky magazine content, and the magazine’s impact on the community. The challenges and rewards of running a passion project with no ads, no digital edition, and lots of local flavor. Big thanks to Nicole at Nico Coastal Homes – a friend and one of the top realtors on the Sunshine Coast. Find her at nicolearnett.ca, and tell her Secret Sunshine sent you. Find Hackfish Magazine on Instagram and at hackfishmag.ca. Watch the video version of this episode on YouTube. Visit secretsunshine.ca for more episodes and info. Produced and hosted by Dominic Girard at Handover Media.Theme music by Max Henry.

    36 min
  6. Aaron's Dirt Dreams (Salish Soils)

    07/02/2025

    Aaron's Dirt Dreams (Salish Soils)

    Salish Soils isn’t your typical composting and recycling company. It’s a reflection of Aaron Joe’s belief that rebuilding the land can also rebuild lives - especially his own. In this conversation, the founder and CEO of the company shares how his personal journey became the foundation for a business rooted in renewal, regeneration, and community. Find out more about Salish Soils projects, products, and mission at salishsoils.com. And learn about the Salish Sea Regenerative Farm Society here. This episode is sponsored by Angler Management, a fishing charter based in Gibsons. Ed’s a great guy and until the end of Summer 2025, locals who are listeners of Secret Sunshine can get a 10% discount on charter fees. Book yours now at anglermanagement.ca and go catch yourself some salmon. Secret Sunshine is produced and hosted by Dominic Girard at Handover Media. The show’s original music is composed and performed by Max Henry. Learn more about the podcast, including how to become a groovy sponsor, at secretsunshine.ca, and find me on Instagram @dom_ideas.

    32 min
  7. Will Will Wrench (Penco Motorsports)

    06/11/2025

    Will Will Wrench (Penco Motorsports)

    When Will Unwin left the city for a slower life on the Sunshine Coast, he didn’t expect to end up owning Penco Motorsports — or navigating the pressures that come with turning your passion into your livelihood. In this episode, Will shares how an unexpected injury changed his career path, how burnout nearly pulled him away from the motorcycle industry entirely, and why running a small business on the Coast can feel so different from city life. It’s a conversation about risk, reinvention, and protecting what you love — even when it becomes your job. Secret Sunshine is produced and hosted by Dominic Girard at Handover Media. The original music is composed and performed by Max Henry. Learn more about the show - including how to sponsor it - at secretsunshine.ca.

    28 min
  8. Joyce Retires a Dog (Sunshine Coast Search and Rescue)

    05/21/2025

    Joyce Retires a Dog (Sunshine Coast Search and Rescue)

    For about a decade, Joyce and her dog Echo have worked side-by-side as volunteers for Sunshine Coast Search and Rescue. But now, Echo is stepping away from the field. Joyce explores what it means having to retire a dog who’s still eager to serve—and what it means to lose the best search partner she's had. When Joyce isn't in the field with SAR, she runs a lovely kennel in Gibsons called No Pawblems. Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Get in touch by sending an email to secretsponsor@handovermedia.fm and I'll share the deets. It's fun, it's easy, and listeners enjoy hearing you baked into the episodes. Find out more about the podcast at secretsunshine.ca, and follow me on Instagram at dom_ideas.

    31 min
See All (16)

Trailer

5
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About

Meet the folks who make the most of living on British Columbia's Sunshine Coast.

Information

  • Creator
    Dominic Girard
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Dominic Girard
  • Show Website
    Secret Sunshine

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