Rachel & Ryan & Sound Yarn & Fibre

In this episode of the Chamber Chat Podcast, host Chris McDonald sits down with Rachel and Ryan, the founders of Sound Yarn & Fiber, to share the inspiring story behind one of the region’s fastest-growing creative businesses.Rachel opens up about her lifelong passion for knitting and fiber arts, growing up on a farm, and how chronic illness unexpectedly became the catalyst for innovation. Together, she and Ryan transformed a frustrating 3D-printed sock knitting machine into a fully redesigned product that quickly gained international attention. What started as a small Etsy experiment soon evolved into a thriving business shipping custom machines worldwide.The conversation explores the realities of entrepreneurship, balancing creativity with technology, and building a business rooted in sustainability, customer care, and community connection. Rachel and Ryan also discuss opening their storefront in downtown Parry Sound, supporting local makers and Indigenous artists, and winning the Parry Sound Founders Circle Award.From overcoming health challenges to creating a globally recognized niche product, this episode is a heartfelt and inspiring look at resilience, innovation, and the power of pursuing something meaningful together.