Explore every episode of the podcast Beyond 2 Bridges
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Launching Beyond 2 Bridges: Business, Arts, and Windsor-Essex | Episode 1 | 24 Dec 2025 | 00:32:57 | |
Welcome to the very first episode of Beyond 2 Bridges — a new podcast from the Windsor-Essex Chamber of Commerce that brings together the worlds of business, arts, sport, and culture. In this kickoff episode, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel officially unveil the show, share why this podcast matters to the region, and walk listeners through what to expect each week. From weekly insights on what’s happening across Windsor-Essex to conversations with local leaders, creatives, and athletes, Beyond 2 Bridges is designed to spotlight the people and ideas shaping our community. Ryan and Matthew also flip the script with lighthearted, mini-interviews of each other — exploring their very different backgrounds and how those perspectives collide and complement one another on the show. And of course, no episode would be complete without the debut of Bounty from the County — a signature segment where the hosts and guests sample a local food or drink from the region. This week’s bounty is selected by Ryan… and revealed as a surprise. The timing of this launch is intentional. As the Chamber heads into 2026, a milestone year marking its 150th anniversary, Beyond 2 Bridges plays a key role in how the organization connects, communicates, and celebrates the region moving forward. This Week’s Sponsor: All In Content This episode is proudly sponsored by All In Content, the Windsor-Essex–based content and video production team behind the show. Beyond 2 Bridges is recorded and produced at the All In Content Studio, using one of their multi-set podcast spaces built for high-quality conversations and professional storytelling. Learn more about All In Content: Book a podcast or video session at the studio: | |||
| Hilda MacDonald | Mayor, Warden and More | Beyond 2 Bridges | Episode 3 | 05 Jan 2026 | 00:41:09 | |
In Episode 3 of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel welcome Windsor-Essex County Mayor and Warden Hilda MacDonald for a timely conversation about leadership, regional collaboration, and the work happening behind the scenes to support communities across Windsor-Essex. Hilda shares perspective on what it takes to lead at the county level, why cooperation across municipalities matters, and how long-term thinking influences economic development, infrastructure decisions, and the overall health of a region. The episode explores how government, business, and culture can work together to strengthen Windsor-Essex, and what leadership looks like when you’re focused on outcomes that last. In this episode, you’ll learn:
The episode closes with Bounty from the County, featuring another local taste from the region — because the best way to talk about community is to experience it. New episodes of Beyond 2 Bridges drop weekly, spotlighting the leaders, creators, and builders shaping Windsor-Essex. This Episode’s Sponsor: Plantscape This episode is proudly sponsored by Plantscape — a Windsor-Essex company providing year-round property services, including landscaping, snow removal, and custom planters, with a long-standing local history dating back to 1976. Learn more about Plantscape: | |||
| Craig Ramsay (Amazing Race Canada Winner) | Beyond 2 Bridges | Episode 2 | 05 Jan 2026 | 00:40:08 | |
In Episode 2 of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel sit down with Craig Ramsay — winner of The Amazing Race Canada, actor, and reality TV personality — for a fun, honest conversation about performance, identity, and what it’s like to represent your roots on a national stage. | |||
| Dartis Willis | Beyond 2 Bridges | Episode 4 | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:40:59 | |
In Episode 4 of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel are joined by Dartis Willis for a conversation about the priorities shaping Windsor-Essex’s future — from budget decisions and economic development to the role of sport and culture in building strong, connected communities. | |||
| Shane Potvin | Revitalizing Windsor: The Power of Community | Episode 5 | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:45:57 | |
In this episode of Beyond Two Bridges, hosts Matthew and Ryan welcome Shane Potvin, a passionate community advocate and creative entrepreneur. | |||
| Danielle Campo-McLeod | Beyond 2 Bridges | Episode 6 | 26 Jan 2026 | 00:38:14 | |
In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel kick things off with a more relaxed, unplugged conversation — sharing personal stories, favourite movies, food, and pop culture. The light-hearted start gives listeners a deeper look at the hosts beyond their professional roles at the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce, and reinforces the importance of connection and community in everything they do. | |||
| Tal Czudner | Windsor Iconic Battle, Play for a Cure and Community Leadership | Beyond 2 Bridges | 02 Feb 2026 | 00:43:15 | |
In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel sit down with Tal Czudner, CEO of the Windsor-Detroit Tunnel Corporation, for a wide-ranging conversation about leadership, community identity, and what truly defines Windsor-Essex. | |||
| Ember Ridge | Creating Memorable Celebrations in Windsor-Essex with Ember Ridge | Beyond 2 Bridges | 09 Feb 2026 | 00:43:57 | |
In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Matthew Dumouchel and Ryan Donally kick things off with updates on what’s happening across Windsor-Essex, including the She Means Business Brunch and the upcoming 150th anniversary celebration of the Windsor-Essex Chamber of Commerce. | |||
| Dr. Josianne Marsan | Rising, Connecting, and Creating the Future of Business in Windsor-Essex | Beyond 2 Bridges | 16 Feb 2026 | 00:40:27 | |
Rising, Connecting, and Creating the Future of Business in Windsor-Essex In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel welcome Dr. Josianne Marsan, Dean of the Odette School of Business at the University of Windsor. Originally from Montreal, Dr. Marsan shares her journey to Windsor-Essex after more than 15 years at Université Laval, where she held senior leadership roles including Vice Dean of Research and Innovation. With a background that bridges academia and real world practice, beginning her career as a computer programmer analyst, she brings a practical and forward looking perspective to business education. Throughout the conversation, Dr. Marsan outlines her vision for Odette, captured in the motto “Rise, Connect, Create.” She explains why accreditation matters, how the school ranks among the top 6 percent of business schools globally, and why collaboration between academia and the local business community is essential to developing talent and supporting regional economic growth. The episode also features Dr. Marsan stepping into the Windsor Essex Iconic Battle of Champions, making key bracket selections that determine who advances to the next round. Whether favourites hold strong or early upsets change the course, listeners will need to tune in to hear how it unfolds. In this episode, you will hear about:
Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, education, arts, and leadership to explore the people and ideas shaping Windsor-Essex. New episodes released weekly. This Episode’s Sponsor: Daniel J. Pike This episode of Beyond 2 Bridges is proudly sponsored by Daniel James Pike, a Windsor-Essex based writer, graphic designer, and filmmaker and screenwriter, and the founder of County House Pictures. Daniel focuses on crafting compelling stories across film, design, and creative media. Learn more about Daniel’s work Episode Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Valentine’s Day reflections | |||
| Dan MacDonald | Radio, Culture, and Authenticity in Windsor-Essex | Beyond 2 Bridges | 23 Feb 2026 | 00:42:12 | |
In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Matthew Dumouchel and Ryan Donally reflect on some missed opportunities in earlier conversations about Windsor-Essex, especially when it comes to iconic places, food, and cultural touchstones that define the region. They are joined by Dan MacDonald, a longtime Windsor-Essex radio broadcaster with deep roots in the local media scene. Dan has worked with CHUM Radio, 93.9 The River, and AM800 CKLW, where he hosted The Dan MacDonald Show and became known for thoughtful conversations, community storytelling, and a strong connection to local issues. He now hosts afternoon drive on the relaunched 89X, helping bring the iconic alternative station back to life for a new generation of listeners. Dan shares his journey into radio, the influence of music on his career, and why authenticity matters when connecting with an audience. The conversation explores the real impact local radio has on small businesses, events, and community momentum, along with the importance of partnerships between Windsor and Detroit. The episode also revisits the Windsor-Essex Iconic Battle of Champions, diving deeper into iconic food, places, transportation, and cultural favourites that sparked strong opinions and lively discussion. From local establishments to unexpected omissions, this episode reinforces how passionate the community is about what represents Windsor-Essex. In this episode, you will hear about:
Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, arts, media, and culture to explore the stories shaping Windsor-Essex. New episodes released weekly. Episode Chapters 00:00 Introduction and overview of Windsor-Essex Iconic | |||
| Melissa Bishop-Nriagu | Pressure, Identity & Winning | Beyond 2 Bridges | 02 Mar 2026 | 00:44:09 | |
In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, Ryan Donally sits down with Melissa Bishop-Nriagu, one of Canada’s most accomplished middle-distance runners and a proud Windsor-Essex leader. A University of Windsor graduate, she represented Canada at three Olympic Games and made history with a silver medal in the 800 metres at the 2015 World Athletics Championships—the first Canadian woman to medal in the event. A Pan American Games gold medalist and former Canadian record holder, Melissa is known for her resilience and leadership both on and off the track. Now a mother and advocate for sport, health, and community, she continues to inspire through mentorship, speaking, and service beyond competition. In this conversation, Melissa reflects on her journey from childhood sports in Windsor-Essex to competing on the world stage. She shares what it takes to train at an elite level, how she handled the pressure of global competition, and the mindset that guided her career. Her motto, “Respect all, fear none,” becomes a powerful theme throughout the episode. The discussion also explores identity and transition. Melissa speaks candidly about the shift from elite athlete to motherhood, how that changed her perspective, and what it means when your body is your business. She opens up about sponsorships, branding, teamwork, and the unseen realities behind professional athletics. The episode also includes a fun Windsor-Essex Iconic bracket segment, plus a taste test featuring local favourite TBQ Sauce. Today, Melissa continues to make an impact through mentorship and her work with Classroom Champions, helping inspire young athletes and students to build confidence, resilience, and leadership skills. In this episode, you will hear about:
Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, sport, education, and culture to explore the people shaping Windsor-Essex. New episodes released weekly. Episode Chapters 00:00 The sports journey begins | |||
| Yvonne Pilon | AI, Innovation & Windsor’s Startup Future | Beyond 2 Bridges | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:43:50 | |
In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel welcome Yvonne Pilon, President and CEO of WETech Alliance, to discuss innovation, entrepreneurship, and the evolving tech ecosystem in Windsor-Essex. Yvonne shares how WETech Alliance supports startups and innovation-driven companies, while also helping non-tech businesses improve processes, scale ideas, and compete in a rapidly changing economy. Throughout the conversation, Yvonne reflects on her own leadership journey and how networking, collaboration, and strong storytelling help communities grow. She explains why building a personal brand matters for leaders, why investors look beyond products to the businesses behind them, and how authentic relationships remain the foundation of long-term success. The episode also turns to the Windsor-Essex Iconic Battle of Champions, where Yvonne weighs in on some bracket decisions. From local favourites to unexpected contenders, the competition continues to spark passionate debates across the region about what truly represents Windsor-Essex. Whether it is food, places, or cultural touchstones, the bracket keeps the conversation lively and the community engaged. In this episode, you will hear about: • The role WETech Alliance plays in supporting startups and innovators This episode highlights why technology, culture, and community are all part of the same story when it comes to building a thriving region. Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, innovation, arts, and community leadership to explore the people shaping Windsor-Essex. New episodes are released weekly. Episode Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Poonchki and technology | |||
| Chef Zule | From Ghana to Windsor: How Chef Zule Built Zule Eats | Beyond 2 Bridges | 09 Mar 2026 | 00:41:47 | |
In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel explore the vibrant and evolving food scene of Windsor Essex with Chef Zule, founder of Zule Eats. Originally from Ghana, Chef Zule shares her inspiring journey from arriving in Windsor Essex to building one of the region’s most talked about culinary businesses. What began as a small pie venture has grown into a thriving food brand known for bold flavours, cultural authenticity, and deep connection to community. Chef Zule talks about how Zule Eats has evolved, the importance of listening to customers, and how introducing dishes like fufu and other African inspired cuisine has helped expand the region’s food culture. She also discusses how collaboration with other local businesses helps everyone grow, why networking matters for entrepreneurs, and what it takes to succeed in the world of food and hospitality. Throughout the conversation, Chef Zule reflects on the role food plays in bringing people together. From family traditions to innovative menu ideas, her story highlights how passion, perseverance, and community support can transform a small business into a regional success. The episode also includes a fun Windsor Essex Iconic segment focused on local food favourites and a showcase of the delicious offerings that have made Zule Eats a destination for food lovers across the region. In this episode you will hear about:
Learn more about Zule Eats: Follow Zule Eats online: Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, food, culture, and community to highlight the people shaping Windsor Essex. New episodes released weekly. Episode Chapters 00:00 Introduction and the Windsor Essex food scene | |||
| Dr. Vincent Georgie | Leadership, Film & Windsor’s Cultural Rise | Beyond 2 Bridges | 23 Mar 2026 | 01:05:32 | |
In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel welcome Vincent Georgie, Executive Director and Chief Programmer of the Windsor International Film Festival, and faculty member at the Odette School of Business. Dr. Georgie has played a pivotal role in shaping Windsor’s cultural and economic landscape by advancing WIFF's continued growth, now Canada’s largest volunteer-run film festival and a major driver of arts, tourism, and downtown revitalization in Windsor-Essex. Drawing on his background in marketing, cultural leadership, and community engagement, he shares lessons from building one of the region’s most successful cultural institutions. Throughout the conversation, Vincent reflects on his journey from Montréal to Windsor, the mentors who shaped his path, and why leadership ultimately comes down to people, trust, and relationships. He discusses the importance of recruiting great talent, building strong teams, and creating an environment where creativity and collaboration can thrive. The episode also dives into the power of storytelling and culture in shaping a community’s identity. From film programming decisions to the broader economic impact of the Windsor International Film Festival, Vincent explains why arts and culture are essential components of a thriving city. The conversation also heats up as Vincent steps into the Windsor Iconic Challenge, helping narrow the bracket down to the final 8 most iconic people, places, or things connected to Windsor. From beloved institutions to cultural favourites, his selections help shape the next stage of the competition. If you want to see which icons survive and which fall short, you will need to tune in to the full episode. In this episode, you will hear about: • The story behind the growth of the Windsor International Film Festival From film programming to community pride, this episode highlights why Windsor’s cultural momentum continues to grow. Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, arts, innovation, and community leadership to explore the people shaping Windsor-Essex. New episodes are released weekly. Episode Chapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. Vincent Georgie and Windsor's cultural scene | |||
| Gordon Orr | Tourism, Investment and the Future of Windsor-Essex | Beyond 2 Bridges | 30 Mar 2026 | 00:49:49 | |
In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel welcome Gordon Orr, CEO of Invest WindsorEssex and Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island, for an in-depth conversation about the forces shaping the future of Windsor-Essex. With more than 30 years of leadership experience in economic development, tourism, and hospitality, Gordon shares his journey through the region’s tourism sector and the evolution of Windsor-Essex as a destination for both visitors and investment. From regional branding and marketing campaigns to strategic partnerships across the Windsor-Detroit corridor, he explains how collaboration drives growth and resilience in the local economy. The discussion explores the region’s most important tourism assets, including wineries, outdoor experiences, gaming, and cultural attractions, along with how modern tourism marketing now blends digital itineraries, influencer partnerships, and targeted campaigns across Canada and the United States. Gordon also discusses major regional developments such as the Gordie Howe International Bridge, and how projects like this create new opportunities for tourism, trade, and economic expansion across the Windsor-Detroit corridor. During the episode, Gordon also joins the hosts for the Windsor Iconic Challenge, helping determine which regional landmarks and favourites continue advancing in the competition. As the bracket narrows, the debate over Windsor’s most iconic people, places, and things continues to intensify. The conversation also highlights the evolving role of Invest WindsorEssex in attracting international investment while supporting local business growth. Gordon explains how building trust, collaboration, and strong regional branding helps position Windsor-Essex competitively in global markets. In this episode, you will hear about: • Gordon Orr’s journey in tourism, hospitality, and economic development From tourism and culture to investment and economic strategy, this episode highlights how regional collaboration continues to shape the future of Windsor-Essex. Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, culture, innovation, and community leadership to explore the people shaping the Windsor-Essex region. New episodes are released weekly. Episode Chapters00:00 Introduction to Gordon Orr and Windsor-Essex’s economic landscape | |||
| Fadi Bidawid: Building Nuts 4 Dates Through Culture, Community, and Passion | Beyond 2 Bridges | 13 Apr 2026 | 01:03:25 | |
In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel sit down with Fadi Bidawid, co-founder of Nuts 4 Dates, for an inspiring conversation about entrepreneurship, culture, and community-driven growth in Windsor-Essex. | |||
| Moya McAlister | Storytelling, and Building Windsor-Essex’s Arts Future | Beyond 2 Bridges | 06 Apr 2026 | 00:32:12 | |
In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel sit down with Moya McAlister, Executive Director of Arts Collective Theatre and a driving force behind Windsor-Essex’s growing arts and culture scene. Moya shares her journey from Toronto to Windsor and how she has built a career rooted in storytelling, social justice, and community impact. Through her leadership at Arts Collective Theatre, she has helped create a platform for emerging artists, youth programming, and productions that amplify voices and experiences that deserve to be heard. The conversation explores how Moya balances multiple roles across theatre, nonprofit work, and community initiatives, including her involvement with Fashion Week Windsor and the National Self-Represented Litigants Project. She reflects on what it takes to lead in the arts space, why listening and understanding people is critical, and how strong community engagement can create lasting change. The episode also dives into the broader role of arts and culture in shaping Windsor-Essex. From building inclusive spaces to supporting the next generation of creatives, Moya outlines a vision for the region as a thriving arts hub by 2040. In this episode, you will hear about: • Moya McAlister’s journey from Toronto to Windsor-Essex This conversation highlights how creativity, leadership, and community connection are shaping the future of Windsor-Essex. Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, arts, innovation, and community leadership to explore the people shaping the region. New episodes are released weekly. Episode Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Moya McAlister and her work | |||
| Episode 19:Title: Mayor Drew Dilkens on Windsor's Future: Gordie Howe Bridge, NextStar & the Windsor-Essex Iconic Finale | Beyond 2 Bridges | 27 Apr 2026 | 00:58:47 | |
Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens joins Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel on Beyond 2 Bridges to talk infrastructure, economic development, and what's next for Windsor-Essex. Now in his third term, Mayor Dilkens shares the story behind some of the city's biggest moves — from the Gordie Howe International Bridge and the $5-billion NextStar Energy EV battery plant to the Sandwich South development plan and Windsor Works strategy. He opens up about his leadership philosophy, tackling homelessness, downtown revitalization, and why long-term planning matters more than short-term wins. Plus: the Windsor-Essex Iconic bracket finale is HERE. Windsor Pizza vs. Willistead Manor. Local Wineries vs. the Minivan. Only one can be crowned the most iconic symbol of Windsor-Essex — and the Mayor makes the final call. You'll have to watch to find out who wins. 🥃 Taste of the County: 42-year-old Wiser's Whisky — a nod to Windsor's deep roots with the legendary Hiram Walker Distillery. This episode is sponsored by the Chamber Plan — group benefits built for small business. Learn more → https://www.chamberplan.ca/ ⏱️ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Mayor Drew Dilkens 03:05 Early Political Influences and Journey 05:45 Transition from Councilor to Mayor 10:05 Understanding Municipal Challenges 12:59 State of the City: Long-Term Vision 16:54 Community Pride and Economic Development 20:04 The Impact of the Gordie Howe Bridge 23:06 Celebrating Local Heritage and Industry 30:56 The Art of Tasting and Savoring Spirits 32:03 Celebrating Windsor's Iconic Figures 34:15 The Windsor Pizza vs. Minivan Showdown 38:26 Addressing Homelessness and Community Support 51:02 The Secret Sauce of Leadership 53:57 Envisioning Windsor's Future Beyond 2 Bridges is the official podcast of the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce. New episodes weekly. #Windsor #MayorDrewDilkens #WindsorEssex #GordieHoweBridge #NextStarEnergy #WindsorPizza #WindsorEssexIconic #BeyondTwoBridges #ChamberOfCommerce #EconomicDevelopment #Infrastructure #Ontario #WisersWhisky #HiramWalker #WindsorOntario | |||
| Dr. Justin Teeuwen | Unlocking Performance, Leadership, and Meta Thinking | Beyond 2 Bridges | 20 Apr 2026 | 00:51:56 | |
In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel sit down with Dr. Justin Teeuwen, international speaker, educator, and co-founder of Meta Excellence, for a powerful conversation on performance, leadership, and the future of learning. With a background spanning physics, education, and global teaching experience, Justin brings a unique perspective on how individuals and organizations can elevate their thinking, decision-making, and results. Through his work with Meta Excellence, he focuses on helping people develop what he calls Meta Habits, built through four core areas: metacognition, metaemotion, metawellness, and metacharacter. The conversation dives into practical strategies that leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals can apply immediately. From improving planning efficiency to reducing overwhelm, Justin shows how small changes in thinking can lead to significant performance gains. The episode also explores the evolution of Meta Excellence and how its programs are being used across universities, colleges, and industries worldwide. Justin explains how understanding how we think, feel, and act allows individuals to unlock higher levels of growth and effectiveness. The discussion also touches on small business challenges, delegation, and the realities of building something meaningful while balancing growth and sustainability. As always, the conversation connects back to Windsor-Essex and the importance of collaboration, innovation, and continuous development in shaping the region’s future. In this episode, you will hear about: • What metacognition is and how it improves leadership and decision-making This episode is packed with practical insights for anyone looking to improve how they think, lead, and perform. Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, education, innovation, and community leadership to explore the people shaping Windsor-Essex. New episodes released weekly. Chamber Affinity Partner: Meta Excellence Meta Excellence is proud to be an Affinity Partner with the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce, providing advanced performance and learning tools to businesses, leaders, and organizations. Learn more about Meta Excellence: Connect with Meta Excellence: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MetaExcellence Episode Chapters 00:00 Introduction and personal transformations | |||
| Episode 23: Beyond 2 Bridges | Season One Finale | 25 May 2026 | 00:52:23 | |
In the Season 1 finale of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel look back on an incredible first season filled with conversations featuring community leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, artists, and changemakers from across Windsor-Essex. This special recap episode revisits some of the most memorable moments, stories, debates, and insights from the season while reflecting on the bigger themes that emerged throughout the journey. From local business growth and regional collaboration to arts, culture, sports, and entrepreneurship, the season highlighted the people and ideas helping shape the future of Windsor-Essex. The episode also features a behind-the-scenes conversation with Chris Hanna, founder of All In Content, who discusses the production side of the podcast, the importance of authentic storytelling, and why consistent content creation plays such an important role in building stronger business and community connections. Ryan, Matthew, and Chris reflect on:
The conversation also explores the growth of Beyond 2 Bridges itself and the impact of creating a platform focused on celebrating Windsor-Essex through genuine, thoughtful conversations. Whether you joined for the Windsor Iconic debates, the business insights, the community stories, or the behind-the-scenes moments, this finale serves as a celebration of the people who make Windsor-Essex special. Beyond 2 Bridges is proudly recorded and produced at the All In Content Studio by All In Content, an Affinity Partner of the Windsor-Essex Regional Chamber of Commerce, helping businesses and organizations create professional podcast and video content right here in Windsor-Essex. Learn more about All In Content: Book a studio session: Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, culture, innovation, and community leadership to explore the people shaping Windsor-Essex. Thank you for joining us for Season 1. Episode Chapters 00:00 Season finale reflections | |||
| Episode 22 - Winner's of the Windsor Iconic Bracket Challenge Are On The Show | 18 May 2026 | 00:57:00 | |
In this special episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel welcome Marcin Pulcer and Alex Denonville to break down the results of the wildly popular Windsor-Essex Iconic Bracket Challenge. After weeks of passionate voting, heated debates, and community engagement, the bracket has officially crowned its winners. From local landmarks and cultural staples to controversial food takes and unforgettable Windsor-Essex moments, this episode dives into the conversations that had the entire region talking. The discussion covers everything from the legendary Windsor pizza debate to fish flies, local pride, and the cultural quirks that make Windsor-Essex unlike anywhere else. Along the way, the conversation expands into broader topics including regional development, public service, collaboration, and how technology and AI are beginning to reshape education, government, and community engagement. Both guests bring unique perspectives rooted in leadership, innovation, and public service, creating a thoughtful and entertaining discussion about where Windsor-Essex has been and where it is headed over the next 15 years. In this episode you will hear about: • The final results of the Windsor-Essex Iconic Bracket Challenge Whether you agree with the final bracket results or not, this episode celebrates the people, places, traditions, and conversations that make Windsor-Essex unique. Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, culture, innovation, and community leadership to explore the people and ideas shaping Windsor-Essex. New episodes released weekly. This Episode’s Sponsor: NFP This episode of Beyond 2 Bridges is proudly sponsored by NFP, a leading provider of insurance, benefits, wealth management, and consulting solutions helping businesses and individuals navigate risk and plan for the future. Learn more about NFP: Episode Chapters 00:00 Celebrating Windsor-Essex Icons | |||
| Episode 21: Josh Reit | Inside the World of Pernod Ricard's Windsor Facility & Leadership Insights | 11 May 2026 | 00:41:23 | |
In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel sit down with Josh Reit, Vice President of North American Manufacturing at Pernod Ricard, for an inside look at one of North America’s largest and most advanced distillery operations right here in Windsor-Essex. Josh shares his journey from Wisconsin to global leadership, offering insight into what it takes to lead at scale while maintaining a strong connection to people, process, and performance. The conversation dives into the remarkable capabilities of the Windsor facility, including its ability to process tens of millions of litres annually using locally sourced Essex County grain and its unique ability to produce multiple distillates simultaneously. The discussion explores how Pernod Ricard balances heritage and innovation, especially when supporting iconic brands like J.P. Wiser’s. From honoring tradition to evolving products for new generations, Josh explains how brand stewardship plays a critical role in long-term success. Sustainability and technology are also front and center. Josh outlines how the facility is evolving through energy efficiency improvements, waste reduction strategies, and smarter manufacturing systems. He also highlights the growing role of AI and automation in modern production environments and how these tools are reshaping the workforce and operational efficiency. The episode also touches on the importance of partnerships with local institutions like the University of Windsor and St. Clair College, helping develop the next generation of talent and ensuring Windsor-Essex remains competitive in advanced manufacturing. In this episode you will hear about: • The scale and complexity of Windsor’s Pernod Ricard facility From distilling and sustainability to leadership and technology, this episode highlights how Windsor-Essex continues to play a key role in global manufacturing and brand excellence. Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, innovation, culture, and community leadership to explore the people shaping Windsor-Essex. New episodes released weekly. Episode Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Josh Reit and Windsor operations | |||
| Episode 20 - Gina Facca | From Cinemas to Pickleball Courts | Beyond 2 Bridges | 04 May 2026 | 00:42:27 | |
In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel sit down with Gina Facca, entrepreneur and founder of Pickleplex, for a conversation about leadership, growth, and building community through sport. Gina shares her journey from a background in accounting and project management to managing cinemas and ultimately launching Pickleplex, one of the fastest-growing indoor pickleball concepts in Windsor-Essex. Drawing on years of experience across industries, she explains how transferable skills, strong partnerships, and a willingness to adapt helped her successfully transition into entrepreneurship. At the heart of the conversation is community. Gina emphasizes how pickleball is more than just a sport. It is a social experience that brings people together across generations and skill levels. From post-game conversations to organized events and leagues, Pickleplex has been built to foster connection, inclusion, and engagement throughout the region. The episode also explores the rapid rise of pickleball in Windsor-Essex and beyond, including the role of municipalities, local organizations, and partnerships in supporting its growth. Gina shares insights into scaling a business in a fast-moving market, the importance of mentorship and internships, and how she is developing the next generation of leaders within her organization. The conversation also touches on branding, including the story behind the name Pickleplex, and what it takes to create a recognizable and scalable identity. Looking ahead, Gina outlines her vision for expansion across Canada and how Pickleplex can continue to play a role in strengthening communities through sport and shared experiences. In this episode you will hear about: • Gina Facca’s transition from corporate roles to entrepreneurship From business strategy to community building, this episode highlights how sport can be a powerful driver of connection and growth. Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, sport, culture, and community leadership to explore the people shaping Windsor-Essex. New episodes released weekly. Episode Chapters 00:00 Welcome and episode overview | |||