People Of Durham
Welcome to People of Durham, a show that highlights the everyday legends, hidden gems, and unforgettable personalities that make the Durham Region feel like home. Each episode, the hosts sit down with local leaders, business owners, creators, and community members whose stories shape the region. Recorded in a professional studio at Blue Phoenix Studios in Whitby, every interview is turned into 30+ short-form clips for social media. Real stories. Local voices. Durham’s people.
Episodes
People of Durham #44 - Judith Tait
**People of Durham #44 – Judith Tait, Whitby West Town Councillor Candidate**Judith Tait wanted to be a police officer from grade three, after Officer Bill and Elmer the Safety Elephant walked into class. She got hired at 24 as a single mother, stayed 25 years, and made sergeant. When the canine unit did not work out, she built a dog-walking company anyway, took it to six figures, and sold it.She
People of Durham #43 - Lynn MacDonald
Lynn MacDonald went from paper maps and a drive off Prince Edward Island to 20 years inside federal and provincial government. She learned IT after an English degree, ran an international tech conference, then trained as a high-performance coach so other people would not burn out the way so many public servants do.She now lives in South Ajax. In this conversation she talks about that path, why she
People of Durham #42 – John Meloche, Melo Technology & Pickering Ward 2 Candidate
**People of Durham #42 – John Meloche, Melo Technology & Pickering Ward 2 Candidate**John Meloche is the founder of Melo Technology, the person behind Eyes on Durham, and a candidate for Pickering Ward 2 council. Host Mark Lorray sits down with him for a conversation that starts in call centres in 2009 and ends at the door of municipal politics.John bootstrapped a hosted phone company, watched
People of Durham #41 - Rob Munro, Munro Plumbing
**People of Durham #41 – Rob Munro, Munro Plumbing**Rob Munro built Munro Plumbing from a pickup truck and a New Year’s Eve dare into a four-tech, two-van Durham shop in three and a half years. After years as a union plumber in Toronto, a friend in Haliburton called him out: stop talking about it and jump. He did, in January 2023.In this conversation he talks about hiring before he felt ready, put
People of Durham #40 – Laura Erasmus, Founder of Moose Cookies
People of Durham #40 – Laura Erasmus, Founder of Moose CookiesLaura Erasmus is a 28-year-old wife, mom, and founder of Moose Cookies. Born in Romania and raised across Korea, Abu Dhabi, and Canada, she started the brand postpartum as a creative outlet after too many nights spent watching TV. What began as late-night recipe experiments while her son slept is now a handmade stuffed-cookie company wi
People of Durham #39 - Quentin DSouza, Durham REI Founder & Real Estate Educator
**People of Durham #39 – Quentin D’Souza, Durham REI Founder & Real Estate Educator**Quentin D’Souza went from elementary school teacher to building a 550-unit real estate portfolio across Ontario and founding the Durham Real Estate Investors Club in 2008. In this conversation he shares how health transformed his business, the value of taking his sons on mountain treks around the world, how th
People of Durham #38 – Stephanie Ashton
People of Durham #38 – Stephanie Ashton, Feed Ontario Leader & Ajax Regional Ward 3 Candidate. Stephanie Ashton has spent 25 years in the nonprofit sector — including 12 years in international development and her current work at Feed Ontario on food insecurity. A longtime Ajax resident and mom of three, she’s now running for Regional Councillor in Ward 3.In this conversation she shares why the
People of Durham #37 - Karey Ann Large, CEO Whitby Chamber of Commerce
Welcome to People of Durham! In this episode, Mark Lorray sits down with Karey Ann Large, CEO of the Whitby Chamber of Commerce, for a conversation about community, leadership, and the heartbeat of local business.From running her own bakery downtown to leading a nearly 700-member Chamber, Karey Ann shares her journey of resilience — including the downtown fire that sparked the rebirth of Whitby
People of Durham #36 - Lisa Patel, TREB Past President & Ajax Ward 3 Candidate
**People of Durham #36 – Lisa Patel, Ajax Ward 3 Candidate**Lisa Patel has spent nearly 20 years in real estate, served as the 100th President of the Toronto Real Estate Board (one of only a handful of women and people of colour to hold the role), led the industry through COVID, mentored youth as a Big Sister, and has given decades of service to Ajax and Durham. In this conversation she shares the
People of Durham #35 Neil Gonsalves - Professor, Host of The Lens, Author
Neil Gonsalves joins People of Durham for a thoughtful conversation about purpose, manhood, education, and building a better future for the next generation.Neil is a Durham College professor of 20 years, author, TEDx speaker, and host of The Lens on Revo TV. In this episode we explore the challenges facing boys and young men today, the weight of constant negative messaging, and what it takes to de
People of Durham #34 - Malcolm Barrington: Military Veteran, Social Housing Leader & Ajax Candidate
People of Durham #34 – Malcolm BarringtonHosted by Mark LorrayIn his first episode as host, Mark Lorray sits down with Malcolm Barrington — longtime Ajax resident, former military officer, small business owner, life coach, and candidate for Ward 1 Councillor. Malcolm shares his journey from Guyana to the UK to Canada, the lessons he learned running a sporting goods store that suffered four break-i
People of Durham #33 - Mark Lorray: Entrepreneur, Business Coach & Author
0:00 🗣️ Mark describes a busy Saturday with speaking, a workshop, and panel discussions.00:42 🎙️ The Black Leaders Summit and his role as keynote speaker and panelist.01:10 👩🏫 Training lead generation for “Meet the Motivators,” a women’s organization.01:50 💬 Why quick replies to leads matter — and the cost of waiting two days.02:48 🤝 Mark is introduced as a co-host for People of Durham.03:32 🎤 Fr
People of Durham #32 – Randy Nickerson: Photographer, Author & Storyteller
00:00 🗣️ Dropbox vs Google Drive and expensive AI tools01:29 🎬 Why Final Cut Pro over Premiere03:49 🎙️ Preferring organic podcast conversations05:44 🌍 Looking at all sides + Scott Galloway08:41 🇺🇸 Reluctance to travel to the U.S.10:19 📚 Yuval Noah Harari’s Nexus and AI11:23 🏥 Honest reflections on COVID13:58 🤝 Clients hire the person, not just the photos14:57 🛡️ Always asking permission before pho
People of Durham #31 Maleeha Shahid, Author, Real Estate Agent, Whitby Regional Councillor East Ward
00:24 🗣️ Maleeha Shahid introduces herself as Whitby's Regional Councillor, former Deputy Mayor (2023), author, podcast host, and mother of three.02:45 🚫 Maleeha doesn't do real estate in Whitby due to conflict of interest, but her real estate experience helps her understand residents' needs and desires.03:05 🏟️ Maleeha highlights new Whitby amenities: the Fieldgate Sports Centre with
People of Durham #30 - Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy
01:06 🏫 Mayor of Whitby shares background: 9 years as school board trustee and 34-year career as medical radiation therapist.02:02 🏙️ Transitioned to full-time mayor 4 years ago after retiring from medicine; has 3 children and 2 grandchildren.03:42 🏥 Praises Cobourg Hospital and smaller facilities for offering Toronto-level services without the travel.05:24 🏗️ Whitby is getting a new hospital; lan
People of Durham #29 - Sid Goyal, Oshawa City Councillor Ward 5 Candidate
03:44 💡 Sid explains his motivation for running for office, stating that he realized living for the community would give his life meaning, leading him to seek ways to make life better for himself and those around him.05:51 🏛️ Sid emphasizes that positive impact can be made at the municipal level, as it's where individuals can have the most direct influence, rather than focusing on high-level g
People of Durham #28 - Nick Papalambropoulos, Ajax Ward 3 City Councillor Candidate
00:03 🗣️ The host introduces Nick, noting the contrast between his short last name and the host's longer, more traditionally Greek last name, Papalambropoulos.01:03 🤝 Nick explains his business philosophy, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community, citing examples like cutting elderly neighbours' grass and plowing driveways for free after snowstorms.02:41 🏢 Nick reveals his landsc
People of Durham #27 - Marilyn Crawford, Ajax Mayoral Candidate
🗣️ Marilyn Crawford, a regional councillor running for mayor of Ajax, is introduced, highlighting her 25 years of public service.01:36 🏘️ Marilyn discusses the housing crisis in Ajax, noting that while municipalities don't build houses, the current term has focused on facilitating development, despite challenges like rising costs and interest rates.04:58 🗣️ Marilyn emphasizes her platform'
People of Durham #26 - Vince Viapiana Pickering City Councillor Ward 2 Candidate
We sit down with Vince Viapiana, a candidate running for Pickering City Councillor in Ward 2. Vince shares his vision for the community, his experiences, and what drives him to serve the people of Pickering.01:23 🚌 Vince shares his 18.5 years at the TTC, community involvement, charitable work, and youth sports coaching, driven by a desire to bring positive change to Pickering.03:09 🗣️ Vince addres
People of Durham #25 - Abdullah Mir, Pickering Ward 1 City Councillor Candidate
Abdullah Mir is a community advocate in Durham, involved with "Stop Sprawl Durham," "Land Over Landings," and the Rougemount Community and Recreation Association (RCRA), where he is the VP and co-founder. He is also a board member of the Pickering Public Library and is running for Ward One City Councillor.01:55 🏞️ Abdullah discusses the revamp of Rouge Valley Park, a project he
People of Durham #24 - Chris Leahy, Whitby Mayor Candidate
Meet Chris Leahy — long-time Whitby resident, current Councillor, and candidate for Mayor of Whitby.00:47 🌍 Chris Leahy shares his personal history, mentioning he was born in Peterborough but has lived in Durham since 1979, specifically in Whitby his entire life, attending local schools and residing in various wards.04:22 🏛️ Chris reveals his lifelong interest in politics, having been involved in
People of Durham #23: Kristen McKinnon - Oshawa Ward 5 Regional and City Councillor Candidate
In this local podcast interview, Kristen sits down to discuss what it is really like on the campaign trail. This conversation offers an inside look at the demands of her current political run and why she decided to step into this role for the Durham community.02:42 🏃♀️ Kristen explains her motivation for running for council, highlighting her desire to improve South Oshawa, which she sees as an ov
People of Durham #22 - Priya Vadivel, Pickering Ward 1 Councillor Candidate
The episode covers Priya Vadivel's platform, background, and vision for Ward 1 in Pickering. Here is a summary of the full conversation, building on the key points:Background and Professional Experience.Priya is a resident of the High Bush neighbourhood in Ward 1, Pickering, where she raised her family. She founded the High Bush Neighbourhood Association to ensure residents have a collective v
People of Durham #21 - Sterling Lee, Ajax Regional Ward 2 Councillor
02:22 🏛️ Sterling Lee introduces himself as the current Ward 2 Regional Councillor and Deputy Mayor for the Town of Ajax, mentioning his parents will be proud to see him in this role.03:33 💼 Sterling recounts being downsized from Rogers on his birthday, August 11, 2013, which led to a humbling experience at a Samsung interview before he landed a role at Microsoft by thoroughly researching and pres
People of Durham #20 - Carey Nicholson, Theatre on the Ridge
00:06 🎭 Carrie Nicholson introduces herself as the Artistic Director and General Manager of Theatre on the Ridge, a professional theatre company based in Scugog, just outside Port Perry, where she has lived for almost 30 years.01:45 🎭 She shares her diverse background in classical and contemporary dance, arts management, fiber art, and even running a bed & breakfast — all tied together by her
People of Durham #19 - Daisy Raudales, Durham Region Public Relations (DRPR)
Meet Daisy Raudales — founder of Daisy Raudales Public Relations (DRPR), a sharp, local PR & marketing agency based in Ajax.From starting her business during the thick of COVID, to landing high-profile clients like Thermea Spa, Daisy shares how she helps businesses and professionals get noticed, launch events, and grow their visibility in Durham Region.In this episode we cover:How she built DR
People of Durham #18 - Jay Hayles, Ward 2 Candidate, Firefighter, REALTOR, Community Connector
Meet Jaylan Hayles — candidate for Ajax Ward 2 Councillor, full-time firefighter, real estate professional, and founder of Connecting the JAXX.Jay is running to represent the residents of Ward 2 and bring a fresh, service-driven approach to local leadership. In this episode, he shares what’s really happening at the doors, what residents are telling him, and his vision for a more connected, afforda
People of Durham #17 - Ben Shelley, Paradisiac Building Group
Meet Ben Shelley — a true Durham success story and one of the most respected contractors in the region.From growing up in a basement apartment in Courtice to building Paradisiac Building Group (26 years strong), co-owning Fast Lane Plumbing, and now mentoring other contractors through his Contractor Success Method, Ben has mastered the art of building businesses with integrity.In this episode we t
People of Durham #16 - Josh Wilson: Iron Sons Training
Josh Wilson is a tattoo artist turned fitness coach who founded Iron Sons Training after a personal health transformation that saw him lose over 100 lbs. In this interview, he shares his "discipline over motivation" philosophy and how he balances his two passions.🔑 Key TakeawaysPersonal Transformation: Josh reached 330 lbs before his own health journey began. His "why" is deepl
People of Durham #15 - Michael Cappa, Altona Painting
On this episode of People of Durham, Pascal chats with Michael Cappa, Founder of Altona Painting.Michael shares how he started Altona Painting eight years ago right after university. While on an internship in Peru in 2017, he had a vision of a working-and-traveling lifestyle. Drawing on his experience running a successful Student Works Painting franchise, he decided to launch his own residential a
People of Durham #14 - Billy Conquer
On this episode of People of Durham, Pascal chats with Billy Conquer! Billy is a real estate agent in the Durham Region and a Team Leader at Keller Williams Energy! He is also
People of Durham #13 - John Kehagias
John Kehagias is a dedicated real estate professional and Team Leader at Keller Williams Energy Real Estate in the Durham Region.With over 20 years of experience helping clients buy, sell, and build their futures in Whitby and beyond, John is deeply passionate about community, family legacy, and personal growth. A proud Greek-Canadian father, fitness enthusiast, and advocate for kindness and resil
People of Durham #12 - Louanne Lalande
As a dedicated accountant CPA in the Durham region, Louanne shares valuable tips for tax season prep, smart accounting practices, and insights from her personal and professional journey! Follow her on Instagram: @louannelalande!
People of Durham #11 - Darren Fraser - Fraser In The Forest
In this episode of People Of Durham, Pascal chats with musician, Darren Fraser! Fraser In The Forest is a voice that invokes a pause for both contemplation and celebration. Follow and listen to his music:Apple Music:https://music.apple.com/ca/artist/fraser-in-the-forest/1677267283Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3OngibejcOyLD6Gs3e7lJe?si=6F2iY94_RtikQm9RRmuQxw
People of Durham #10 - The Paranormal Seekers
In this episode of People Of Durham, Abby chats with Rachel, Ryan, and Liz of The Paranormal Seekers!A paranormal research and investigation group based in Durham Region (Oshawa, Ontario, Canada,) specializing in historic locations and providing afterlife awareness.They also investigate residential and commercial properties. They approach each case with a high level of professionalism and discreti
People of Durham #9 - Art By Frank
In this episode of People Of Durham, Abby chats with Art By Frank! Frank is a tattoo artist and co-owner of Against The Grain Tattoo Collective at 120 Dundas St. W. in Whitby.Abby and Frank discuss all things Tattoo Industry from learning and becoming a Tattoo Artist to running a Tattoo company and even some Tattoo Industry controversies.Make sure to follow @ArtByFrank and @ATGTattooCollective on
People of Durham #8 - Scott Carroll
In this episode of People Of Durham, Pascal chats with Scott Carroll of Carroll Property Services. Scott has been in the landscape industry for the better part of the last decade.Scott loves designing gardens with an abundance of biodiversity and practical use for the owners.The jobs he loves the most are large orders of saplings. Saplings can be used in traditional landscaping or to produce resou
People of Durham #7 - Andrew Valyear, Founder of Uplynk
In this episode of People of Durham, Pascal sits down with Andrew Valyrear, founder of Uplynk, to talk about how smart home technology is changing the way homes are built and lived in.Andrew shares the story behind starting Uplynk, working closely with custom home builders, and creating systems that make homes more connected, functional, and future ready. The conversation touches on, problem solvi
People of Durham #6 - Undercover Dachshund, Durham’s Inflatable Agent of Joy
Pascal and the Undercover Dachshund, Durham’s Inflatable Agent of JoyIn this episode of People of Durham, Pascal sits down with one of the most recognizable and joyful faces in the region, the Undercover Dachshund. Known around Durham for spreading smiles at community events, schools, and local gatherings, this larger than life inflatable dog has become a symbol of positivity and connection.Behind
People of Durham #4 - Sean Crites, Wing Chun Sifu & Rhythmic DJ
In this episode of POD (People of Durham), we sit down with Sean Crites — Wing Chun Sifu & Rhythmic DJ.Sean takes us back to his upbringing in Sudbury, sharing the challenges he faced early in life and how those struggles shaped the person he is today. Through martial arts — specifically Wing Chun — he found structure, discipline, and a sense of direction that helped him push through adversity
People of Durham #3 - Tarryn Venne, The DIY Realtor
In this episode of POD (People of Durham), we sit down with Tarryn Venne — The DIY Realtor.Tarryn breaks down how taking a hands-on, do-it-yourself approach has shaped his real estate career and the way he serves his clients. From renovations and staging to learning every part of the process firsthand, this conversation explores what it really means to build trust by understanding the work behind
People of Durham #5 - Cody Sturgess, Olympic-Shortlist Rider Turned Real Estate Warrior
Cody Sturgess, Olympic-Shortlist Rider Turned Real Estate WarriorIn this episode of POD (People of Durham), we sit down with Cody Sturgess — a former Olympic-shortlist equestrian rider who made the bold pivot from elite sport into the world of real estate.Cody opens up about the discipline, pressure, and mindset required to compete at the highest level, and how those same traits now shape the way
People of Durham #2 - Tristan Gillepsie, Corporate Site Selector Turned Realtor Closer
Episode 2 — Featuring Tristan (Commercial & Residential Real Estate Agent, The Nook Realty)Welcome back to People of Durham, the podcast where we highlight real stories, real experiences, and the people shaping the future of the Durham Region. From Whitby to Oshawa and everywhere in between, this series brings you authentic conversations that show what makes this community so unique.In this ep
People of Durham #1 - Tony Giambattista, The Barefoot Runner
In this episode of People of Durham, host Pascal Zois sits down with local legend Tony the Barefoot Runner — the man known across the Durham Region for running completely shoeless through our neighbourhoods.Tony shares how his barefoot journey began, the physical and mental benefits he’s experienced, and why he believes more people should rethink how they move. From health insights to personal sto
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