City of Nanaimo Presents: The Sweet Layered Podcast

e33 - Accessibility at City Recreation Facilities

In this episode we explore how the City of Nanaimo is addressing and improving accessibility across its recreation facilities. From physical upgrades and barrier-free design to staff training and service delivery, the conversation highlights the steps being taken to ensure residents of all abilities can access programs, spaces and services with confidence.
Our guests are Mike Bryson, Deputy Director of Civic Facilities and Laara Clarkson, Manager of Recreation Services.
Listeners will gain insight into how accessibility is considered in both day-to-day operations and long-term planning, as well as the role staff play in creating positive, inclusive experiences.

e32 - Tourism Nanaimo

Tourism touches nearly every part of Nanaimo’s community, from jobs and small business to arts, culture and events. In this episode, we sit down with Carly Pereboom, CEO of Tourism Nanaimo, to talk about what’s coming up this year.
The conversation explores new initiatives, seasonal highlights and evolving travel trends, as well as how Tourism Nanaimo balances visitor growth with sustainability and community livability. Listeners will also learn how tourism contributes to Nanaimo’s local economy and why showcasing local stories and experiences matters now more than ever.
Whether you’re a resident, business owner or planning a visit, this episode offers insight into how Nanaimo is positioning itself as a welcoming, vibrant destination.
 

ep31 - Elections 101

Municipal elections shape the decisions that affect our everyday lives — from roads, parks and public safety to housing and community services. British Columbia’s next general local election takes place on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, and in this episode, we break down what voters and potential candidates need to know.
Joining us is Sheila Gurrie, Director of Legislative Services and Communications, who brings extensive experience overseeing local elections. 
We cover who can vote, how and where to cast a ballot, opportunities to work during an election and what’s involved if you’re thinking about running for local office. Whether you’re voting for the first time or considering a run for council, this episode is your starting point.

ep30 - Dr. Derek Poteryko

In this episode of The Sweet Layered Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Derek Poteryko, a family physician, author and well-known wellness advocate in Nanaimo. We talk about his community-based approach to health, including Walk With a Doc and the Orange Bench initiative, and explore what wellness really means, why simple habits matter and how social connections support physical and mental health. Dr. Poteryko also shares practical tips that listeners can start using today, offering clear and accessible advice from one of Nanaimo’s most engaged health advocates.
 

e29 - Community Safety Officers

e28 - RE-RELEASE: Adverse Weather

Original airdate: 11/19/2024 *edited to remove out of date information.
Adverse weather can be challenging, but with the right services and clear communication it makes all the difference. Clear roads, sidewalks and areas around facilities to safety alerts and critical updates, timely info keeps our community safe, informed and prepared. We chat with Charlotte Davis, Deputy Director of Parks and Natural Areas and David Thompson, Manager of Roads and Traffic Services about what the City does when we get hit with severe weather.

e27 - Vancouver Island Military Museum

On this episode of the Sweet Layered Podcast, we’re joined by Carina Nilsson, General Manager and Brian McFadden, President of the Vancouver Island Military Museum. Located near Nanaimo’s harbour front, the museum features exhibits tracing Canada’s military history from the War of 1812 to present-day missions.
We explore how the museum came to be, how stories and artifacts are selected and the importance of highlighting both battlefield and home front experiences. Carina and Brian share how the museum connects with the community, honours service and sacrifice and inspires reflection across generations.
Whether it’s Remembrance Day or any time of year, this episode offers insight into one of Nanaimo’s most meaningful cultural institutions, a place where history is preserved and remembrance lives on.

e26 - Luminous Paths: Nanaimo 150 and Beyond

On this episode we welcome Jaime-Brett Sine, the City’s Culture Coordinator, to talk about Luminous Paths: Nanaimo’s 150 and Beyond event held in early 2025 – which recently took home a Creative City Network of Canada Impact Award. Luminous Paths was a month-long winter art festival commemorating the City’s 150th anniversary of Nanaimo City Council’s first meeting. The event, a first of its kind for the city, welcomed nearly 18,000 people taking part in seven art installations stationed around Maffeo Sutton Park.