Collide Podcast

Episode 8: Letting the Story Lead: Connie Boland on Creativity, Memory & Storytelling

In this episode of Collide, we sit down with writer, former journalist, and storyteller Connie Boland, whose debut chapbook is launching with Horseshoe Press. Connie shares her deeply personal creative process—one where characters sit on her shoulders, stories blur the line between fiction and memory, and writing becomes a way to honour the people, places, and traditions of Newfoundland and Labrador.
We explore the transition from journalism to creative writing, the magic of letting characters take over, and the role of storytelling in preserving history in a fast-moving digital world. Connie reads from her award‑winning piece Cards Laid on the Table and talks about the women and lived experiences that inspire her work.
You’ll also hear about her journey to publishing her first book before turning 60, the upcoming launch at the Corner Brook Public Library, and how creativity can ground us during busy, stressful times.
Learn more and contact Connie Boland here.
 

Episode 7: From Quilts to Community - The Magic of Textile Tuesdays

Textile art isn’t just about fabric — it’s about memory, connection, and the joy of making something with your own hands. In this episode of Collide, we sit down with Diana Chisholm and Larry Weyand, two artists whose lives have been shaped by the textures, traditions, and stories woven into textile work. From childhood memories of quilting circles and rug hooking to the unexpected paths that led them into professional art practices, they share how textiles became both a creative outlet and a way to stay connected to family, culture, and community.
We also dive into the magic behind CRI’s beloved Textile Tuesdays, a bi‑weekly drop‑in night that has quickly become one of the most joyful, social, and collaborative gatherings in the building. Whether you’re a seasoned maker or someone who just wants to learn how to knit a dishcloth, this episode captures the laughter, support, and shared creativity that fill the room every time the group meets. It’s a celebration of slowing down, making things together, and keeping handmade traditions alive on the west coast of Newfoundland.

Episode 6: The Grenfell Campus Archive and Its Community Legacy, with Crystal Rose and John Bodner

In this episode of the Collide podcast, we explore the history and importance of the newly launched Grenfell Campus Archives and Special Collections. Hosts Tod Henessy and Mery Perez are joined by John Bodner and Crystal Rose, who discuss how this collection preserves the cultural and historical stories of Newfoundland and Labrador. It includes digitized student interviews, rare maps, and Sir Wilfred Grenfell’s writings, making it a valuable community resource and a dynamic store of stories.
Tune in to learn how this project connects academic research with community memory and encourages future generations to engage with their shared heritage.
Want to learn more or donate any items to the Grenfell Campus Archives? Click here.
Visit Memorial University's Digital Archives.
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Episode 5: Transforming trades with Fixxie 2.0 - A chat on AI with Dan Genest

In this episode, we chat with Dan Genest, founder of Fixie 2.0, an AI-powered tool transforming contractor workflows. Acting as a virtual assistant, Fixxie simplifies job intake, estimating, scheduling, and execution through user-friendly platforms like SMS and email. 
Dan shares his journey from property management to creating an AI solution tailored for tradespeople, reflecting on the evolving role of AI in entrepreneurship and its potential risks and rewards. He also highlights the support he received from Newfoundland and Labrador’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, including programs like Navigate and Genesis. This episode offers an inspiring look into innovation, AI’s practical uses, and the drive to solve real-world problems.
Interested in Fixxie? Contact Dan and his team: info@fixden.com
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Episode 4: Crafting Connections - Exploring the Art of Woodworking with Stuart Rockwood and Neil Nordier

Get ready to dive into the fascinating world of woodworking in Episode 4 of Collide, the Centre for Research and Innovation Podcast! This time, we're joined by Stuart Rockwood, an expert in traditional woodworking, and Neil Nordier, CRI’s Makerspace Coordinator, as they share their passion for crafting, the joy of working with hand tools, and the incredible resources available at CRI’s Makerspace.
We also spotlight the Western Newfoundland Woodworkers Guild, a vibrant community of woodcraft enthusiasts who gather monthly to share skills, demonstrate tools, including a CNC machine, and collaborate on exciting projects. Whether you're a seasoned woodworker, a curious beginner, or just someone looking to connect with a creative community, this episode is packed with inspiration, tips, and insights to get you started. Tune in and discover how to turn your ideas into reality—one project at a time!
For more information, visit the CRI Website
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Episode 3: Navigate, transforming communities through entrepreneurship

Helping entrepreneurs find their way since 2004, Navigate is a champion of entrepreneurship in Western Newfoundland, providing business coaching and support to the local entrepreneurial community at the Centre for Research + Innovation, as well as to students, faculty, staff, and alumni of MUN Grenfell Campus and CNA Corner Brook Campus. Since their doors first opened in 2004, they’ve helped over 300 clients set sail on a business journey.
We had the great opportunity to sit with Renee Wheeler and Billy Newell to discuss their vision, the challenges entrepreneurs face, and the programs, services, and support they offer, as well as their latest updates.
Website: https://navigatesmallbusiness.ca
IG: @navigatenl
FB: Navigate Small Business 

Episode 2: Horseshoe Community Press

Join Andrew Testa and Thomas Halford as they unpack what Horseshoe Community Press has in store for the community. 
You may contact Andrew at: atesta@mun.ca and Thomas at z53tafh@mun.ca 

Episode 1: Unpacking our Podcast Title

Host Mery Perez sits down with Todd Hennessy, Director of the CRI, to explore the origins of this dynamic hub in Corner Brook, NL. Together, they discuss the CRI’s mission to empower and serve the local community by fostering innovation, collaboration, and growth. From offering cutting-edge tools and services to organizing engaging activities, the CRI is dedicated to providing the community with the resources they need to bring ideas to life.