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In this episode, we sit down with Emy Stantcheva, Executive Director of MusicOntario. Listen to Refolkus: https://refolkus.transistor.fm/subscribe Emy shares practical advice on export readiness, developing a clear market strategy, preparing for conferences, and making meaningful industry connections. We also explore effective pitching, creative promotional materials, and the importance of following up and maintaining relationships after events. An informative conversatio

We’re shaking things up this episode! Our host, Rosalyn Dennett, takes a turn in the guest seat for a candid conversation hosted by Ann MacKeigan. Rosalyn shares stories from her early musical influences, what makes a great musical collaboration, and the role that community and storytelling have played throughout her career. We also talk about her journey as the Executive Director of Folk Canada and some exciting information about the upcoming Folk Canada Conference taking pl

In this episode we chat with Tania Joy the Co-founder and Artistic Director of Springtide Music Festival in Uxbridge, Ontario. Listen to Refolkus: https://refolkus.transistor.fm/subscribe Tania shares the story behind building a community-driven music festival from the ground up, and what she’s learned about supporting local artists, developing audiences, and creating meaningful partnerships along the way. We also explore the idea of slow touring, building genuine relatio

In this episode, we chat with Luisa González, a music industry professional and booking agent with a background in film. Listen to Refolkus: https://refolkus.transistor.fm/subscribe Luisa shares practical advice for emerging artists on building an authentic brand, developing a strong visual aesthetic, creating compelling content on a budget, and building a professional online presence. We also explore how to approach networking and follow-ups at industry events and confere

In this episode, we chat with Kerri Stephens, the Artistic Director of Northern Lights Festival Boréal in Sudbury, Ontario and founder of Lost Cat Artists. Listen to Refolkus: https://refolkus.transistor.fm/subscribe Kerri takes us behind the scenes of programming Northern Lights Festival Boréal, sharing how she curates a cohesive lineup and considers everything from an artist’s fit with the festival’s mandate to the overall audience experience. She also shares practical a

In this episode, we chat with Fiona Black, the Artistic Director of Vancouver Folk Music Festival. Listen to Refolkus: https://refolkus.transistor.fm/subscribe Fiona shares insights into booking international artists, creating meaningful collaborations and workshops, and what makes the Vancouver Folk Music Festival such a unique experience for artists and audiences. We also explore how festivals have evolved post-pandemic and the role of community in creating memorable liv

In this episode, we sit down with Tim Des Islets, founder of Noisemaker Management and Noisemaker Presents, a Canadian artist management and event promotion company. Listen to Refolkus: https://refolkus.transistor.fm/subscribe Tim shares insights into the world of artist management, the evolving artist-manager relationship, and what it takes to promote shows and festivals in today’s live music landscape. We also explore how community, strategy, and strong industry relatio

In this week’s episode, we sit down with Ann MacKeigan, a media consultant and performance coach with over three decades of experience at CBC. Ann shares insights on how artists can frame and deliver their stories with confidence, including practical strategies for preparing for interviews, finding the human connection in every story, handling unexpected questions with honesty, and creating memorable moments that resonate with audiences. We also explore how thoughtful storyte

In this week’s episode, we chat with multidisciplinary artist Ahmed Moneka. We discuss his journey from Iraq to Canada and how music has shaped both his life and his activism. Ahmed shares how he blends his Afro Sufi heritage with jazz, folk, and contemporary influences to tell stories of identity, migration, and resilience. We also discuss the power of music to build cultural connections, promote peace, and create space for love, belonging, and social change. Listen to Refol

In this episode, we chat with musician, booking agent and grant-writer, Sage McBride. Drawing on her experience as both a touring artist and industry professional, Sage shares practical advice on everything from tour routing and self-booking to writing stronger grant applications. We also talk about what makes a showcase stand out, why live videos matter, and how collaboration can open new doors for artists. Listen to Refolkus: https://refolkus.transistor.fm/subscribe Connec

In this episode, we chat with Chris Frayer, the Artistic Director of Winnipeg Folk Festival. We get into the evolution of the Winnipeg Folk Festival and what it takes to build a lasting music festival. Chris also shares insights from his decades in the industry, including how he approaches artist booking, balancing emerging and established artists, and creating meaningful experiences for audiences. Listen to Refolkus: https://refolkus.transistor.fm/subscribe Don’t miss Winn

In this episode we chat with the Artistic Co-Director of Sunfest, Mercedes Caxaj. Mercedes takes us behind-the-scenes of creating a diverse and internationally focused music festival. She shares the story of how Sunfest began, how they bring artists from around the world to the stage, and the work involved in producing a free-admission festival. We also discuss how representation and community engagement shape the festival’s mission and create opportunities for artists and au

In this episode, we chat with Mick Janzen of the folk trio The Janzen Boys. Mick shares his journey from busking to full-time touring, and dives into the DIY digital marketing strategies he uses to build his audience, drive ticket sales, and strengthen direct connections with fans. He breaks down how independent artists can use social media, targeted advertising, and online tools to grow their reach, create opportunities, and build a sustainable career. Listen to Refolkus:...

In this episode, we sit down with music agent Nicole Rochefort. We discuss the artist-agent relationship, what agents look for when signing new clients, the importance of community and networking, and why artists need to think like entrepreneurs. Nicole also shares practical advice on self-promotion, audience development, balancing life on the road, and creating a long-term career that leaves room for both growth and rest. Listen to Refolkus: https://refolkus.transistor.fm/su

In this episode, we chat to acclaimed Canadian artist, AHI. We discuss the power of storytelling in folk music and how personal experiences shape the songs we connect with most deeply. We also touch on AHI’s journey as an artist, the role of vulnerability in songwriting, and how he’s learned to channel criticism into creativity and growth throughout his career. Listen to Refolkus: https://refolkus.transistor.fm/subscribe Catch AHI Online: Website: https://ahimusic.com/ Tour

In this episode, we sit down with Grammy-nominated fiddler Natalie McMaster to talk about her journey from growing up in Cape Breton’s rich musical traditions to building an internationally celebrated career in folk music. 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 bestsell

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. Listen/Subscribe to Refolkus: https://refolkus.transistor.

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

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 y

Listen and subscribe to Refolkus: https://refolkus.transistor.fm/subscribe This week we’re joined by 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 ta