The Spark - Deer Lake

Economic insight and community highlights from Deer Lake, Newfoundland, and Labrador. Join us as we ignite conversations with business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals who are shaping the future of the Deer Lake and Humber Valley region. The Spark – where Deer Lake’s brightest ideas come to life!

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Episodes

59 minutes ago

🎙️ Rooted in Resilience: Women Transforming Agriculture 🎙️
In this heartwarming holiday edition of The Spark, host Gloria Field welcomes Terri Lynn Robbins, the passionate and inspiring owner of Robbin's Family Farm. Together, they explore how Terri Lynn and her family have built their life around resilience, sustainability, and a commitment to education in agriculture.
Terri Lynn shares her journey from city living in Ontario to embracing farm life in Newfoundland, where the Robbins family has made a profound impact on the local agricultural community. She reflects on the challenges they’ve overcome—like starting with no farming background—to create a thriving farm that grows food, fosters education, and supports community food security. Through programs like toddler farm camps, fresh food boxes, and winter workshops, Robbin's Family Farm inspires families to take small but meaningful steps toward sustainability.
This episode also highlights Terri Lynn Robbins’ leadership in amplifying the voices of women in agriculture. Through her work co-founding a new initiative to support women in all roles within the industry, she’s paving the way for greater collaboration, representation, and empowerment. Her story is a testament to the resilience of the Robbins family and their farm, where every day is an opportunity to nurture not only the land and animals, but the people and communities they serve.
🎧 Tune in now on Spotify, Amazon Music, or Podbean to hear how resilience and passion shape the farming life, and how Terri Lynn Robbins’ work is sparking change for women in agriculture.

Monday Nov 18, 2024

It's a special Christmas edition of The Spark with Major Frank Pittman and Amanda Feltham, Supervisor of the Thrift Store. Recorded live on location, Gloria, Amanda, and Major Frank discuss the role that The Salvation Army plays within the community, where funding support comes from, and the immense joy found in living life with a purpose to serve others. Tune in and spark your holiday season with this heartwarming episode. 

Tuesday Nov 12, 2024

We invite you a bench or comfortable spot on our trails for a few moments of grounding and stillness. Local yoga instructor, Carmelita Morgan, guides us through a four minute meditation intended to help you mindfully experience the nature of our Trail System. Please enjoy.

Wednesday Oct 30, 2024

In this episode of The Spark Podcast, we speak with Carol Anstey, broker and owner of RE/MAX Realty Professionals and the Conservative candidate for Long Range Mountains. With years of experience in the real estate industry, Carol offers insights into the challenges and opportunities in Newfoundland’s housing market. She shares her views on how interest rates, housing supply, and innovative development could shape the future of communities like us in Deer Lake. Join us for a timely conversation with Carol and Gloria as they discuss ideas for fostering sustainable growth and economic vitality in the region.

Tuesday Oct 15, 2024

NL Young Farmers is about to host their Leadership Summit this weekend and this episode of The Spark, we dive into the world of sustainable agriculture with Lukas Doman, owner of Deep Roots Farm and Market in Newfoundland. Lukas has transformed a modest plot of land into a thriving farm that emphasizes ecological balance, soil health, and community-supported agriculture. We explore his journey from starting with just a few seeds to running a full-scale farm operation that now includes a local market where customers can purchase fresh produce grown close to home. 
Lukas shares valuable insights into the realities of farming in Newfoundland, the challenges posed by its unique climate, and how his farm adapts to those challenges. He also highlights the importance of collaboration and working together with other local farmers and community members to build a resilient, sustainable food system. 
Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about the future of farming and how local food movements can create sustainable, fresh food systems in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Monday Oct 07, 2024

In this episode of The Spark, we sit down with Ashley Hann, the dynamic owner of Humber River Off-Grid Tours, to explore her unique journey from forestry to farming and the creation of a sustainable tourism business. With the Newfoundland Young Farmers Leadership Summit approaching, Ashley shares her insights on the importance of young people in agriculture and how rural communities can thrive through farming. From off-grid living to farm-to-table experiences, she discusses how her passion for growing vegetables turned into a thriving business on the scenic Humber River. Ashley’s story offers inspiration for aspiring farmers and entrepreneurs, showing how innovation, dedication, and connection to nature can create lasting impact.
There is still time to register for the NL Young Farmers Leadership Summit happening here in Deer Lake from October 18-19, where the theme is “The Cost of Farming.” Whether you're just starting out in agriculture or looking to expand your operation, this summit will feature workshops, farm tours, and networking opportunities to equip the next generation of farmers with the tools they need for success. Tune in for a conversation that blends adventure, farming, and leadership!

Tuesday Sep 24, 2024

In this episode of The Spark, we chat with Glenda Simms, Tourism Supervisor for the City of Corner Brook. Glenda shares her unique journey, from working on cruise ships around the world to spearheading tourism initiatives back home in Newfoundland. She discusses her strategies for attracting tourists, enhancing local attractions, and fostering collaboration between city departments and local businesses. Glenda’s passion for tourism, especially in Western Newfoundland, is evident as she reflects on how her global experiences inform her current work and how Corner Brook is positioned to offer unforgettable experiences to visitors. The episode concludes with valuable insights into the future of tourism in the Humber Valley Region and the importance of local pride and resident engagement.

Friday Sep 06, 2024

On this Community Update episode, we talk with Jenna Sudds, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development about the expansion of the National School Food Program that aims to provide hot lunch for an additional 4100 students with a focus on rural and remote communities, including schools in Deer Lake. Jenna also shares details on the Canada Child Benefit and current efforts around expanding childcare options for families who work outside the typical '9-to-5' structure. 

Tuesday Sep 03, 2024

When Carole's position was eliminated, she found herself at a crossroads. Leave Newfoundland to pursue her next career path or stay at home and start a business. Luckily for us, she chose the latter and has never looked back. 
Carole and Gloria discuss the joys and the challenges of being an entrepreneur, including the equal importance of setting goals and healthy boundaries. We also dive into what the word 'brand' truly means and Carole gives great tips on conducting a 'network inventory' and reassures us that while we may be solopreneurs, we are not alone. Carole believes that there is a vast ecosystem of supporters that want your Newfoundland-based business to succeed. 
Carole hosts virtual coffee break networking opportunities and you're invited to join the next one coming up on September 10th! You can register by reaching out to her on her Facebook Page or via www.spicerfacilitation.ca 

Tuesday Aug 20, 2024

Discover the hidden health and wellness gems in Deer Lake! Join us as Sarah Short, owner of ActiveLife Physiotherapy and Wellness, shares the diverse services, classes, and success stories from her clinic. People from across Newfoundland, including larger city centers, travel to Deer Lake for top-notch care. Tune in to find out why!

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