The Backroads Bill Podcast

In this episode of Backroads Bill, we take you inside the Canadian Ecology Centre's summer programs, where students leave the traditional classroom behind and experience learning in the heart of nature.Bill and Ben are joined by Josh, Shelby and Sarah who are just 3 of the educators who spend their time in the summer to help teach different courses. They share what makes this immersive program so unique, from teaching science and geography outdoors to using hands-on activities, fieldwork, and real-world experiences to bring lessons to life.They also discuss how living, learning, and exploring together helps students build confidence, curiosity, and a deeper connection to the natural world.0:00 – Inside a Unique Way to Teach4:17 – Why Teachers Keep Coming Back10:48 – Learning Through Hands-On Outdoor Activities19:08 – Building Stronger Student Connections32:34 – Why Experiential Learning Works

In this episode of Backroads Bill, we sit down with geologist, prospector, and landman Mark Hall to explore the fascinating world of gold prospecting in Northern Ontario.Mark explains how gold forms, where prospectors look for it, and what it really takes to find it.We also follow along as Bill tries his hand at gold panning, uncovering a few flakes along the way while learning the techniques, tools, and history behind one of Canada's oldest outdoor pursuits.0:00 – Meet Geologist & Prospector Mark Hall3:16 – Where to Find Gold in Northern Ontario06:13 – How to Choose the Best Gold Panning Location12:18 – Gold Panning Tools & Techniques19:01 – Can You Actually Make Money Panning for Gold?

In this episode of Backroads Bill, Bill shares the story behind the North Bay Centennial Heritage Map, a special project created to highlight 100 years of North Bay history.He walks through the stories, landmarks, waterways, railways, military history, and community moments that helped shape the city. From the evolution of North Bay's waterfront to its role as a transportation hub and gateway to the North, this episode looks at how the city has changed while still holding onto its roots.0:00 – Intro4:25 – How the Map Project Came Together11:31 – North Bay's Origins, Railways & Early Growth17:44 – The Transformation of North Bay's Waterfront28:19 – The Process of Creating a Heritage Map

In this episode of Backroads Bill, we sit down with Sheri and Jay, the creators behind The Beauty of the Backcountry YouTube channel.The couple shares how a love of hiking, canoe tripping, and exploring Northern Ontario grew into a successful YouTube channel that inspires thousands of outdoor enthusiasts.From Lake Superior and Killarney to the French River and Wabakimi, they discuss some of their favourite adventures, the challenges of filming in remote locations, and what it takes to capture the beauty of the wilderness on camera.We also talk about camping lessons learned the hard way, winter adventures, backcountry travel, and how Jay creates original music for their videos, giving each story a unique personal touch.Find Jay and Sherri's channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@beautyofthebackcountry 0:00 – How Beauty of the Backcountry Began9:37 – Favourite Canoe Routes in Northern Ontario13:42 – The Power of Lake Superior16:40 – Essential Backcountry Camping Tips29:26 – Creating Original Music for YouTube Videos

This episode explores the impact of the Canadian Ecology Centre's Teachers Mining Tours, which help educators and students get a firsthand look at modern mining and the many career paths it offers.  The mining sector issues a challenge to help the environmental education centre.Our guest is Bryan Wilson, Senior Vice President of Operations, Ontario at Equinox Gold's Greenstone Mine. With nearly 40 years in the industry, Brian shares how mining has changed over the years, from advances in safety and technology to the growing demand for skilled workers.0:00 – Intro6:53 – Modern Mining & Technology13:28 – Mental Health in Mining21:13 – Teachers Mining Tours30:09 – Careers & Hiring in Mining

In this episode of Backroads Bill, we sit down with former Member of Parliament, author, and Northern Ontario advocate Charlie Angus for a wide-ranging conversation about democracy, the North, and the future of Canada.After more than two decades representing Timmins–James Bay in Ottawa, Charlie reflects on the issues that defined his political career, from fighting for rural and northern communities to advocating for Indigenous rights, public accountability, and stronger democratic institutions.He shares stories from the road, lessons learned from representing one of Canada's largest ridings, and why Northern Ontario's voice remains as important as ever.0:00 – Charlie Angus' Northern Ontario Journey3:47 – The Adams Mine Battle11:20 – Shannon Koostachin's Legacy21:14 – Democracy in a Changing World46:10 – The Future of Northern Ontario

In this episode of Backroads Bill, acclaimed Canadian author Christine Fischer Guy returns to the podcast to talk about her brand-new novel, The Instrument Must Not Matter.The story follows a gifted young pianist who leaves Toronto for New York City after earning the chance to study under a world-renowned mentor. Christine takes us behind the scenes of writing the novel, including the years of research she devoted to understanding the mindset of professional musicians, the influence of legendary Canadian pianist Glenn Gould, and even taking piano lessons herself to better connect with the experience of performing music.Find "The Instrument Must Not Matter" and more here: https://christinefischerguy.com/books/0:00 – Intro5:19 – Building a Piano Prodigy Character14:31 – Burning an Entire Manuscript22:14 – The Importance of Editors32:06 – Taking Piano Lessons for the Novel

In this episode of Backroads Bill, we sit down with Justin Wood, founder of Geneticks.ca and a staff scientist at the University of Guelph, to talk about the growing reality of Lyme disease in Canada and the personal experience that changed his life forever.Justin shares his journey from being a healthy university athlete to suddenly dealing with debilitating neurological symptoms, chronic pain, fatigue, and years of unanswered medical questions. After being bounced between specialists and struggling to find answers, he was eventually diagnosed with Lyme disease, beginning a long and difficult road to recovery.We also dive into the science behind Lyme disease, how ticks spread infection, why early detection matters, and the challenges many patients still face when trying to access proper treatment and diagnosis. Justin explains how his own experience eventually led him to create Geneticks, a company focused on tick testing and helping people better understand their risk after exposure.Check out Justin's website: https://geneticks.ca/0:00 – Intro3:31 – What Lyme Disease Actually Is6:55 – From Athlete to Seriously Ill10:18 – Finally Getting Diagnosed16:05 – Turning His Experience Into a Business24:29 – The Truth About the Bullseye Rash29:07 – The Stigma Around Lyme Disease33:39 – How Tick Testing Works

On this episode of Backroads Bill, we sit down with Brennain Lloyd from Northwatch, one of Northern Ontario’s longest-running environmental advocacy organizations.For nearly four decades, North Watch has been involved in some of the region’s biggest environmental debates, from forestry and mining to landfill proposals, nuclear waste storage, and land use decisions that affect communities across the North .Brennain takes us through the origins of North Watch in the late 1980s, how the organization grew out of environmental and peace activism, and why public participation in environmental decision-making still matters today.0:00 – Intro3:40 – Climate Change & Younger Generations11:43 – The Nuclear Waste Debate in Northern Ontario20:30 – Why “NIMBY” Isn’t Fair25:23 – The Risks of Nuclear Waste Storage33:52 – The Adams Mine Landfill Controversy38:07 – Why Environmental Advocacy Never Stops

On this episode of Backroads Bill, we sit down with the team behind one of Northern Ontario’s most recognizable outdoor products, The Original Bug Shirt Company in Powassan.What started as a simple idea to help people enjoy the outdoors without being eaten alive by black flies and mosquitoes has grown into a globally recognized brand worn by campers, hunters, forestry workers, paddlers, and outdoor enthusiasts around the world. Julie shares the incredible story of how the company began in the early 1990s, how she started sewing bug shirts from home while raising her children, and how that small operation eventually turned into a thriving Northern Ontario business. We also talk about buying the company in 2019, navigating the uncertainty of COVID, and how the business adapted as more people turned to the outdoors.0:00 – Intro3:55 – How the Company Started8:10 – Buying the Business10:03 – Why Bug Protection Matters15:21 – COVID & Going Global Online20:08 – Shipping Bug Shirts Around the World26:13 – New Bug Gear for Kids30:24 – Customer Stories from the Outdoors

In this episode of Backroads Bill, we sit down with Otto Bedard who is an expert technologist in hydrometry, hydraulics and innovation.With recent flooding hitting the North Bay area, the timing couldn’t be better. Otto takes us inside the system most people never think about, the network of gauges, sensors, and data collection points that track how high rivers rise and how fast water moves.We dive into how water levels are actually measured, what “stage” and “discharge” mean, and how this data gets shared across Canada to help inform decisions around flooding, infrastructure, and safety. Otto also walks through how technology has changed the job, from handwritten logs and manual readings to automated systems that update every hour.0:00 – Intro4:34 – What the “Water Office” Actually Does6:46 – How Water Levels Are Measured (Then vs Now)9:21 – Why Water Data Is So Important15:02 – Real-Time Data & Flood Monitoring22:01 – Technology Changing Water Measurement33:06 – Traveling the North to Measure Water

On this episode of Backroads Bill, we sit down with Curtis Lafleche, a Northern Ontario outdoorsman who has turned his passion for the backcountry into a growing presence on YouTube.What started as simple walks quickly turned into a deep curiosity about the land, eventually leading to backcountry trips, canoe expeditions, and a love for exploring the wild spaces of Northern Ontario . We also dive into how Curtis made the leap from private adventures to sharing his experiences online.From filming solo trips and learning the ins and outs of content creation, to finding his own voice without trying to copy others, he talks about what it really takes to build something authentic in the outdoor space.Check out Curtis' Youtube here: https://www.youtube.com/@NotSoEpicAdventurer0:00 – Intro3:06 – Finding the Outdoors8:28 – Why He Started YouTube13:22 – Backcountry Trips & Florence Lake Story20:41 – Entering the Quiet & Winter Camping34:33 – Gear, Filming & Outdoor Lessons

In this episode of Backroads Bill, we sit down with one of Canada’s most recognizable voices in weather, climatologist David Phillips, for a conversation that spans more than five decades of forecasting, storytelling, and scientific change.From his early days with Environment Canada to becoming a familiar presence on The Weather Network, David reflects on how both the science and the public’s relationship with weather have evolved. We talk about how forecasting has changed, from simple observations to advanced technology powered by satellites and supercomputers, and why predicting the weather is still as challenging as ever .The conversation also dives into the bigger picture. David shares how climate change has reshaped not just long-term trends but the day-to-day weather Canadians experience, with storms becoming more intense and patterns less predictable. Along the way, he offers stories from across the country, highlighting the moments where weather has left a lasting impact on people and communities.0:00 – Intro3:18 – Why Canadians Love the Weather6:16 – How His Career in Climate Began12:04 – Climate Change & Human Impact22:20 – How We Consume Weather Today46:20 – Memorable Weather Stories

In this episode of Backroads Bill, we sit down with Juno-nominated artist Adrian Sutherland to explore how his music is deeply rooted in his life in Attawapiskat and his culture. From early influences at home to performing on national stages, Adrian shares how his sound has evolved while staying true to where he comes from.We also dive into his new book The Work of Our Hands, and how storytelling, music, and culture all connect. Adrian opens up about life in the North, the realities of remote communities, and why he continues to create from a place that means so much to him.Learn more about Adrian here: https://adriansutherlandmusic.com/home0:00 – Intro03:06 – Life in Attawapiskat05:23 – Early Music & Influences08:54 – The Story Behind the Book15:04 – Music, Culture & Community21:10 – Life on the Land & What’s Next

On this episode of Backroads Bill, we head off the highway and into the small Northern Ontario community of Gogama, a place with a population of just a few hundred but a story that runs deep.We’re joined by longtime resident Gerry Talbot, who has spent his entire life in Gogama and has been involved in nearly every aspect of the community. From local services and volunteer boards to preserving the town’s history, Gerry shares what it takes to keep a small town going and why people continue to call it home .We talk about Gogama’s past, from its days as a much larger mill town to the challenges that came with population decline. We also explore how the community has adapted over time, from improving internet access and infrastructure to maintaining essential services through volunteer efforts.0:00 Intro3:29 Where Gogama Is & Who Lives There10:18 From Boom Town to Decline17:05 Housing, Growth & Challenges28:03 The Legend of the Wolf Man39:59 Derailment, Recovery & Moving Forward

On this episode of Backroads Bill, we head to Northwestern Ontario to take a closer look at the township of Ignace, a small community facing a big decision about its future.Once supported by forestry, mining, and tourism, Ignace has seen its population decline and its economy slow in recent years. With mills closing and opportunities becoming harder to find, the town found itself at a crossroads. That changed when Ignace was selected as the host community for Canada’s proposed deep geological repository for used nuclear fuel, a project that could bring billions in investment, new jobs, and long-term stability. We’re joined by Jake Pastore to talk about how the community approached the decision, the years of education and public consultation involved, and what it took to earn support from residents and local First Nations partners.We also explore what comes next, from new housing and infrastructure to the construction of a major research and operations facility that could reshape Ignace for generations.

On this episode of Backroads Bill, we head to Northwestern Ontario to explore one of the most intriguing archaeological discoveries in the region in recent years.Local historian Johanna Rowe joins the show to talk about the discovery of the Wawa Runestone, a rock carving hidden in the bush that contains more than 250 characters written in runic script.Johanna walks us through how the discovery first came to light, the process of bringing archaeologists and language experts into the investigation, and the years of careful research that followed.Find out more here: https://www.ocare.ca/ 0:00 – The Wawa Runestone Discovery4:37 – First Seeing the Carvings9:51 – Translating the Runic Message17:02 – Who Might Have Carved It?31:36 – Why the Discovery Matters

On this episode of Backroads Bill, we connect with a trucker whose journey spans continents. Sludge one of the stars of the Netflix series Outback Truckers, joins the show while passing through Northern Ontario after filming on the winter roads along the James Bay coast.Known for hauling freight across the harsh landscapes of Australia, Sludge found himself facing a completely different challenge: driving heavy trucks through deep cold, snow, and ice in the far north.In this conversation, Sludge shares how he first became part of the long-running television series, what it was like trading Australia’s heat for temperatures below –30°C, and how the winter road system compares to the remote dirt roads he knows so well from the Outback.We also hear about the people he met along the way, the culture of trucking across different parts of the world, and why Northern Ontario left such a strong impression on him.0:00 – Introducing Sludge from Outback Truckers3:21 – How Sludge Got Started on the TV Series9:58 – Experiencing Northern Ontario’s Extreme Cold14:43 – Ice Roads vs Australian Outback Driving20:21 – Northern Lights & Final Reflections from the North

On this episode of Backroads Bill, we head north to the shores of Lake Superior to meet Kim Asmussen, known to many as the “Snowshoe Art Guy.”Instead of a paintbrush and canvas, Kim uses snowshoes and wide open winter landscapes to create massive geometric designs and images in the snow that can only truly be appreciated from above Kim shares how a simple idea turned into a unique form of outdoor art.What started with one triangle in a schoolyard has grown into intricate patterns across frozen lakes and fields. Using tape measures, compasses, and careful planning, he walks out designs step by step in deep snow before capturing the final work with drone photography.Find out more about Kim on socials:https://www.facebook.com/kim.asmussen.779 https://www.instagram.com/snowshoeartguy/0:00 – Introducing the Snowshoe Art Guy3:58 – How Snowshoe Art Began11:07 – The Perfect Conditions for Snow Art18:07 – Creating Art in Grass for the PGA21:32 – From Forestry to Snowshoe Artist

On this episode of Backroads Bill, we welcome in professors at Burman University Kevin Kiers and Tim Buttler to talk about their new book, Outdoor Experiential Learning in Canada. It brings together educators from across the country to share how they are taking learning beyond the classroom and into the real world.Kevin and Tim share their own stories, from childhood adventures in rivers and mountains to years spent teaching students outside. What comes through clearly is that outdoor learning is not a trend. It is something that sticks with you. The experiences students have outside often become the lessons they remember most.Learn more about their book here: https://canadianscholars.ca/book/outdoor-experiential-learning-in-canada/0:00 – Intro5:05 – Kevin’s Outdoor Education Journey11:08 – How the Book Came Together18:29 – Outdoor Learning Across Canada32:25 – The Book’s Legacy & What’s Next

On this episode of Backroads Bill, we step away from our usual backroads stories to focus on something that affects every community: our local schools.School board trustees are elected by their neighbours to help guide budgets, set direction, and serve as the voice between families and the education system. It is a role built on community service, not politics. With several boards now under provincial supervision and possible changes ahead, the future of elected trustees in Ontario is uncertain.We’re joined by Stephanie Donaldson of the Ontario Public School Boards’ Association, and a former trustee herself, to talk about what trustees actually do, why they matter, and what could be lost if those local voices disappear.6:47 – What School Board Trustees Actually Do11:05 – Bill 33 and Expanded Ministerial Powers17:42 – Public Response and What People Can Do25:49 – Leadership, Democracy & What’s at Stake

In this episode of Backroads Bill, we sit down with world-renowned botanist, medical biochemist and author Diana Beresford-Kroeger.Diana shares her extraordinary journey growing up in Ireland and having ancient wisdom passed down to her. She then studied to become a scientist with two PhDs who has spent decades studying the chemistry of trees and their direct connection to human health.She explains how the forests do far more than provide beauty and oxygen. Trees release natural compounds into the air that support our immune systems, protect our bodies, and quite literally help us breathe easier.0:00 Intro4:47 Childhood Visions and Early Connection to Trees18:29 The Science: How Tree Aerosols Impact Human Health29:46 Cutting Through Wellness Noise with Real Science39:21 One Tree a Year: A Global Call to Action

Science does not just live in textbooks. It lives in stories, curiosity, and the ability to make people care.In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, we sit down with Dr. David Pearson. Dr. Pearson was the founding Director at Science North and a longtime professor at Laurentian University.We dive into science communication and it's importance, the importance of science centers like Science North, and how making science fun and hands on will help inspire the next generation of scientists.00:03 Meet Dr. David Pearson  06:34 Sudbury’s Regreening Success  12:16 How Science North Got Started  24:13 Teaching Climate Change Early  41:10 Creating the Science Communication Master’s Program

Leadership in Northern Ontario looks different. It means knowing your community, earning trust, and making tough decisions in places where resources are limited and expectations are high.In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, we sit down with two Northern Ontario mayors, Michelle Boileau of Timmins and Cheryl Fort of Hornepayne, to talk about what it’s really like to lead as a woman in local politics.They share their paths into public office, the challenges they’ve faced, and why representation matters in towns and cities across the North.5:37 Cheryl Fort’s path to becoming mayor of Hornepayne8:00 Michelle Boileau on leadership, representation, and returning north17:03 How the Northern Ontario Women’s Association was created31:50 Barriers women still face in politics and what needs to change49:57 Final reflections on leadership, resilience, and the future

When Project Grizzly was first filmed, no one could have predicted the impact it would have decades later. What started as a story about a man building a bear suit in his backyard has become a cult documentary with a lasting place in Canadian film history.In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, filmmaker Peter Lynch reflects on making Project Grizzly, working alongside Troy Hurtubise, and capturing a story driven by obsession, curiosity, and risk.Learn more about the upcoming 30th anniversary screening here: https://hotdocs.ca/whats-on/films/project-grizzly3:32 First meeting Troy Hurtubise and filming in his backyard7:25 Shaping Troy as a character and embracing obsession16:38 Quentin Tarantino discovers Project Grizzly29:49 Reflecting on Troy’s legacy and the film’s lasting impact

Troy Hurtubise was a larger than life character who was obsessed with creating the next big invention. One of the inventions that defined him was the bear suit which was famously featured in the film "Project Grizzly".In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, we explore Troy’s story through the eyes of someone who knew him best, his son Brett. We talk about the obsession that drove him, the risks he took, and the line between genius and self-destruction. 0:00 Introducing Troy Hurtubise and Project Grizzly5:23 Building and testing the bear suits14:27 Life after Project Grizzly and relentless invention26:57 Obsession, burnout, and the cost of never stopping44:20 Legacy, reflection, and what Troy left behind

At White Pines Collegiate & Vocational School in Sault Ste. Marie, school doesn’t look like it used to. Alongside classrooms and hallways, students are learning trades, building real skills, and even running a working chocolate factory.In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, we step inside White Pines to explore how the school is rethinking education. Principal Jennifer Barbeau and former student Josh Sidwell share why hands on learning, creativity, and multiple pathways matter, especially in Northern Ontario where one size does not fit all.1:58 Why White Pines is rethinking traditional education 7:25 Josh’s journey from student to site supervisor14:05 Indigenous culture and inclusion at White Pines23:23 Teaching business and entrepreneurship in trades38:29 The chocolate factory and school store story43:57 Why this school represents the future of education

For decades, Sudbury was known around the world for environmental damage. The land was scarred, the air was polluted, and few people believed recovery was possible. One person who saw something different was Jane Goodall.In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, we sit down with Dr John Gunn to talk about how Sudbury became an unlikely symbol of environmental hope. He shares how science, community action, and long-term commitment helped restore the land and why Jane Goodall believed this Northern Ontario city had a story worth telling to the world.0:00 Intro5:30 What Sudbury looked like before recovery11:45 The science behind the re greening effort18:30 Jane Goodall’s connection to Sudbury25:15 Why this story became a symbol of hope32:30 Lessons Sudbury offers the rest of the world

Every year, Santa flies over Northern Ontario. He sees the lakes, the rivers, the towns, and the backroads most people never notice.This time, we asked him to stop and answer a few questions. In this special christmas eve episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, Santa joins us to talk about Northern Ontario history, geography, folklore, and some familiar stories from past episodes of the show. 

Twenty-five years ago, Jalynn Bosley left the traditional classroom to create something different. What started with a backpack, a few brave students, and a belief in the power of nature grew into Alive Outdoors, a nationally recognized outdoor education program.In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, Jalynn shares how Alive Outdoors began, why she believes outdoor experiences are essential for personal growth, and what she has learned from a career built on trust, challenge, and connection.0:00 – Intro3:10 – How Jalynn's name and journey shaped her path6:00 – Leaving teaching to follow a new direction12:00 – Taking students beyond Canada to learn through travel17:30 – A powerful conversation with a 10-year-old in Bhutan21:00 – Resilience, anxiety, and the value of discomfort26:20 – How outdoor education has changed in 25 years29:10 – Teaching life skills beyond screens and routines33:00 – Gratitude, growth, and building a community that lasts

Steve Hayward has spent most of his life on a snowmobile.He’s been a big part of Ontario’s snowmobile community. From helping to create SnowTrax to working closely with clubs and trail groups, Steve has seen how the sport has grown and what it’s up against today.In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, Steve shares stories from the trail, talks about how snowmobiling has changed over the years, and opens up about the challenges that clubs and riders are facing now.He also reflects on what snowmobiling means to Northern communities and why it's still worth fighting for.0:00 Intro4:20 Steve's first snowmobile7:50 Creation of SnowTrax11:20 Challenges for today's snowmobilers20:00 Shorter seasons and warmer weather?28:30 Favourite rides in Ontario36:00 Sled Ed41:00 Shooting video while hanging out of an airplane

There was a time when flying into Sudbury felt like landing on the moon. The landscape was bare, the rock was black, and the air was thick with the effects of decades of mining and smelting.In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, we sit down with Sarah Woods and Dr. Peter Beckett, two key voices in the story of Sudbury’s re-greening movement. They share how a damaged landscape was brought back to life with shovels, seeds, and the determination of a community that believed things could grow again.0:00 Intro5:20 The moment re-greening began10:30 How science and community came together16:15 What it took to bring back the trees22:40 Changing perceptions of Sudbury28:50 What the world is learning from this project35:00 The future of the re-greening movement

Chris Dube isn’t your average teacher. He surfs the waves of Lake Superior, teaches outdoor education in Terrace Bay, and believes deeply in the power of getting students outside and into the wild.In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, Chris shares what it's like to ride cold waves on Canada’s biggest lake and how those same waters inspire his work in the classroom.He talks about growing up in Northern Ontario, why community matters, and how education and adventure go hand in hand.6:10 – Discovering surf on Lake Superior12:45 – Why surfing became more than just a hobby18:30 – Teaching outdoor education in Terrace Bay24:50 – How he builds community through nature31:00 – Surfboards, snowshoes, and what’s next

When three seasoned paddlers invited a first-time canoeist from France to join them on a backcountry trip, none of them knew just how memorable it would be.In this episode we sit down with Claire and Catherine to hear the story of their journey down the Spanish River. They share what it’s like to travel off the grid, sleep under the stars, and form strong friendships without phones, timelines, or distractions.0:00 – Intro5:00 – Claire’s move from France to Canada9:00 – Planning a remote river adventure13:00 – Campfires, cooking, and connection17:00 – Riding the Budd Car into the wild22:00 – Why the Spanish River left a mark27:00 – Lessons learned and what comes next

Most people know the Edmund Fitzgerald from the song. But few have actually seen the wreck with their own eyes.In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, shipwreck diver and storyteller Ric Mixter shares what it was really like to visit the bottom of Lake Superior and come face to face with one of Canada’s most haunting maritime disasters. He talks about what he saw down there, how the dive changed him, and why some parts of the story still don’t have answers.We also get into Gordon Lightfoot’s famous ballad, what the song got right, what it missed, and how the real story continues to evolve almost 50 years later.Check out Ric's book Tattletale Sounds here: https://shipwreckmuseum.com/product/tattletale-sounds-the-edmund-fitzgerald-investigations-book/0:00 – Intro5:30 – How the dive to the Fitzgerald came together11:00 – What it felt like to see the wreck up close17:00 – Exploring the site and what they discovered23:00 – Breaking down the truth behind the song30:00 – New tools that are changing shipwreck exploration36:00 – Interviews with crew families and survivors42:00 – What the wreck still hasn’t told us 

You may know the name Gah-Ning from the classic Robert Munsch book "Where is Gah-Ning?", but the real story behind the character is even better.In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, we sit down with Gah-Ning herself to talk about how a simple letter to a beloved children's author turned into a storybook character, a lifelong friendship, and a connection that still means everything decades later.She shares what it was like to grow up in Hearst, how her Chinese-Canadian identity shaped her experience, and how Munsch’s visit to her small town left a lasting impression not just on her, but on the whole community.0:00 – Intro3:15 – How Gah-Ning’s family came to Hearst8:45 – Discovering Robert Munsch books in school11:00 – Writing the letter that changed everything17:00 – Growing up in Hearst and being part of the story21:00 – The lifelong friendship with “Uncle Bob”29:00 – How her name almost got changed in the book34:15 – Reflecting on how that one letter shaped her life40:00 – Passing the story on to future generations

Hornepayne is the kind of place you might pass on a map and not think twice. But what if you found out it’s actually the geographic center of Ontario?In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, Mayor Cheryl Fort shares how the town is leaning into that identity and turning it into something meaningful.She talks about Hornepayne’s railway roots, the challenges of being remote, and the pride that comes from building trails, drawing visitors, and putting your community back on the map.0:00 – Welcome to Hornepayne5:40 – What it means to be Ontario’s center12:00 – A town shaped by trains and history18:30 – Rebranding with trails and tourism25:00 – Why people stay and others come back31:45 – Looking ahead and dreaming big

They look like regular rocks during the day. But when the sun goes down and the UV light comes out, they start to glow like lava.In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, we meet Ray Gionet, a rockhound who has been hunting Yooperlites along the shores of Lake Superior.He shares how he first discovered these glowing stones, what they actually are, and why people are traveling from all over to find them.0:00 Intro to Yooperlites and how people find them5:45 Ray’s first glow rock discovery12:30 What makes these rocks light up19:10 The experience of night hunting on the beach25:40 How glow rocks are shaping local tourism31:00 Why Yooperlites keep people coming back

At just 23 years old, Cameron Welch is running a remote wilderness camp deep in Northern Ontario. It’s called Shooting Star Camp, and it sits along the Spanish River in a place secluded from the bustle of city life.In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, Cameron shares what it’s like to live and work off the grid. He talks about buying the same camp he once worked at as a teenager, learning to maintain old cabins, and welcoming guests who paddle in looking for something real.Find out more here:https://shootingstarcamp.com/00:00 Intro06:10 Life off the grid and how the camp works12:30 Guests, wildlife, and backcountry hospitality18:40 The beauty and challenge of the Spanish River25:00 Finding purpose in the bush31:45 What the camp means to Cameron today

The railway helped build Canada, but it also holds stories that don’t always make it into the history books. In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, CBC producer Melody Jacobson joins us to talk about her work on a new CBC special that dives into the history of trains in Canada.From the role of sleeping car porters to the impact on Indigenous communities to rock concerts that rolled across the country, Melody shares what she learned along the way.Listen when it goes live here: https://www.cbc.ca/listen/live-radio/1-141-cbc-radio-specials 

In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, explorer and author Adam Shoalts returns to share one of the most fascinating stories you've probably never heard.It's the true story of Hubert Darrell, a Canadian solo explorer who vanished in the remote north nearly 100 years ago. Most people have never heard his name, yet his influence was felt throughout history books.Adam walks us through how he stumbled across Darrell's story, what he uncovered on the ground, and why some mysteries stay buried for so long.Get your copy of "Vanished Beyond the Map: The Mystery of Lost Explorer Hubert Darrell" here: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/597601/vanished-beyond-the-map-by-adam-shoalts/9780735236868 00:00 – Who was Hubert Darrell06:30 – How Adam found the story13:15 – Retracing Darrell’s last known route21:40 – The original search and what was missed29:50 – What this mystery reveals about exploration36:10 – Why this story still matters today

What happens when one man sits down with 44 people to tell the story of an entire city?In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, longtime pillar of the North Bay community Peter Handley shares the inspiration behind his newest book, Vis-à-Vis: North Bay in Deed & Tale.We talk about how the project came together, how he chose who to interview, what surprised him most, and why capturing local stories is more important than ever.0:00 Intro5:15 How the book’s title and concept came to be9:00 Merle Dickerson stories and Colin Vezina interview17:00 Waterfront development and North Bay’s evolution30:00 The process of gathering and editing 49 interviews42:30 Reflections on North Bay’s future and what’s next for Peter 

People come to Thunder Bay for the views, but many leave with pockets full of purple.In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, we head into the hills above Lake Superior to visit Amethyst Mine Panorama. Owner Tim Lukinuk shares how his family turned a glint of purple in the dirt into a destination that draws visitors from around the world. We talk about the history of the mine, what makes Thunder Bay amethyst so unique, and why people are still showing up with buckets and rock hammers after all these years.4:30 – How the mine was first discovered  9:45 – Building a family business around rocks  15:20 – Why people keep coming back to dig  21:10 – What makes this amethyst different  27:00 – The future of the mine and what’s next

Some of the best canoe routes in Canada aren’t in guidebooks. They’re shared around campfires, passed on through stories, and kept alive by the people who paddle them.In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, we sit down with Matthew Eberly and Robert James of the Wilderness Canoe Association to talk about what it really means to explore the backcountry. They share their favourite trips, the friendships they’ve built along the way, and how the club helps new paddlers find confidence and connection on the water.Visit them at: https://wildernesscanoe.ca/Canadian Canoe Routes: https://myccr.com00:00 Intro4:45 What draws people to backcountry canoeing11:10 Favourite remote routes and hidden gems18:30 How the WCA helps new paddlers get started25:40 The community behind the campfires31:00 Looking ahead and passing down trail knowledge

In their first interview, Sean Lougheed and Lauren Andersen were preparing to paddle 1000 miles through the Yukon wilderness in the world’s longest and toughest canoe race.Now they’re back, and they’ve done it. In just six days and 22 hours, they paddled over 1,000 miles, slept only a few hours a night, and landed a top-three finish.In this follow-up episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, Sean and Lauren talk about what really happened out there. From exhaustion and hallucinations to wildlife, bonding, and the surreal moment they crossed the finish line.05:30 – Early race momentum  11:20 – Sleep and survival  17:45 – Physical and mental strain  24:10 – Wildlife and weird moments  30:35 – Final push to the finish  36:50 – Lessons from the race  42:00 – What’s next

Long before northern Ontario had highways or hashtags, there was Joe LaFlamme. He ran liquor through the bush with dog teams, tamed wolves, and somehow became a national celebrity.Suzanne Charron, author of "Wolf Man Joe Laflamme: Tamer Untamed", shares Joe’s wild story. It starts with him dodging the law and living off the land, but it doesn’t end there. Joe became a performer, a public figure, and a legend.In towns like Gogama and Kapuskasing, people still remember the man who rode through town behind a pack of wolves.00:00 – Intro and how Suzanne found the story  05:45 – Joe’s early life and bush skills  13:10 – Running liquor and evading police  19:50 – Taming and working with wolves  26:30 – Becoming a performer and local legend  33:00 – Joe’s legacy in Northern Ontario

For more than 50 years, Clermont Duval has been painting the North. His work captures the spirit of the land, the wildlife, and the quiet moments most people miss. But for Clermont, nature isn’t quiet. It speaks to him. Sometimes it yells.In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, Clermont shares stories from a life in art and in nature. He talks about his early years painting wolves and canoes, what it's like to paint in complete silence, and why he still feels surprised every time someone connects with his work.06:00 – The accident that changed everything  12:00 – Stories behind his wildlife paintings  20:00 – The Little Red Canoe and how it became his signature  30:00 – Why nature is louder than ever  40:00 – Legacy, advice, and what still inspires him today

At just 22 years old, Mylène started Follow Her North, a guiding company that’s turning Northern Ontario into a place where people come for adventure and stay for connection. She leads everything from snowshoe hikes to getting you the right supplies for your adventure, helping people slow down and reconnect with the land. In this episode, she shares how she turned her love for the outdoors into a business, what it's like being a young woman in the guiding world, and why she believes nature is the best place to reset.  05:20 - Guiding as a calling and career  12:10 - The power of unplugging and getting outside  18:45 - Campfires, food, and creating simple moments  26:00 - Starting a business rooted in nature  33:30 - Looking ahead at what's next

100 episodes of the Backroads Bill Podcast has seen Bill and Ben talk to a number of high profile and educated guests focused on the outdoors, nature and Northern Ontario.For episode 100 Bill talks about the Canadian Ecology Center. How it started and how it turned into the hub for education and outdoor events that it is today.Bill also looks to the future following the devastating downburst earlier this summer and how the Canadian Ecology Center will come back stronger than ever! 

In this episode of the Backroads Bill Podcast, bear and cougar specialist Rich Beausoleil from BearWise.org joins to talk about how to stay safe, smart, and respectful in bear country.From backcountry safety to urban attractants, Rich breaks down what really brings bears too close to people — and what works best to keep them away. 00:00 - Intro: What Is BearWise?  06:15 - Why Bears Show Up Where You Live  13:40 - Bear Spray vs. Guns: What Actually Works  19:55 - Bird Feeders, Garbage & Campfire Mistakes  26:30 - What to Do When You See a Bear  34:00 - The Future of Bear-Human Coexistence