INSIDE THE VILLAGE: Meet the Ontario comedian who helped us survive the pandemic

Welcome back to Inside the Village, where all news is local—and no topic is off-limits.

On this week’s episode of Village Media’s new podcast, we catch up with the one and only Brittlestar, a Stratford, Ont., comedian who helped so many Canadians laugh during the pandemic when they just wanted to cry. You’ve probably watched some of Stewart Reynolds' hilarious videos. Now hear the social-media superstar talk about why he felt so compelled to use his comedic gifts to promote public health. (He also has a lot to say about the importance of quality local journalism.)

The latest episode also tackles a hot-button issue in Orillia: “See You on the Patio,” a COVID-era program that closed stretches of a downtown street on summer weekends so restaurants could expand outside. When news broke that the festive initiative wouldn’t happen this year, locals were outraged. Dave Dawson, the editor of orilliamatters.com, breaks down the controversy, along with veteran city councillor Ted Emond.

Finally, we explore the largest land conservation project in Canadian history: a swath of boreal forest—twice the size of Toronto—near Hearst, Ont. Learn how the project all came together, and how you can contribute. 

Launched last month, Inside the Village provides a weekly window into some the best local journalism, big and small, from across our chain of Ontario newsrooms. If you prefer the audio version, it’s available wherever you find your favourite podcasts.​

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