In this episode of “Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time”, we sit down with sisters and entrepreneurs Emily Hutchinson and Pamela Godin, the owners of Endless Love Wedding Rentals & Consignment in Stellarton, NS.

From a spontaneous idea to opening a boutique offering wedding, prom and formal wear on consignment, Emily and Pamela share their story of building a business that blends sustainability and affordability.

They talk about their mobile bar service, Clink Pop Up Bar, forming partnerships with other local vendors, the entrepreneurial spirit in their family, and the joys (and occasional chaos) of being both parents and business owners.

Listen now to learn more about their business!

In this episode of Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time, we’re joined by Melanie Dash, Recreation and Active Living Coordinator for the Town of Westville. Originally from the South Shore of the province, Melanie shares how her own experience as a newcomer within the province inspires her work today.

She’s leading the upcoming Welcome to Westville event—an exciting opportunity for newcomers to meet neighbours, get involved, and discover what makes Westville a great place to live. Tune in for local insights, tips for newcomers, and a heartfelt invitation to this community celebration!

Visit pictoucountypartnership.com to learn more about how we’re supporting newcomers in Pictou County.

In this episode of "Growing Pictou County, One Story at aTime", we welcome Carissa Ainslie, founder of The Meadows Retreat and Creative Space in rural Pictou County. Discover how Carissa transformed a rural property into a hub for artists, fostering community and creativity along the way.

As the first Rainbow Registered business in Pictou County,The Meadows is committed to inclusivity and amplifying diverse voices in the arts. Carissa shares her journey from city life to rural entrepreneurship and her plans for the future of this inspiring creative space.

She also highlights the valuable support and resourcesavailable to entrepreneurs in Pictou County, which have played a key role in her success.

Tune in for an inspiring story of creativity, community, andentrepreneurial growth!

In this episode of Growing Pictou County, One Story at aTime, we sit down with Willow Harrison and Tom Emmott, the owners of Little Gull Bistro in New Glasgow.

Discover how they brought their culinary vision tolife by championing local ingredients and local suppliers. Willow and Tom share their experiences of starting a restaurant, building strong partnerships with local farmers, and the incredible support they’ve received from localbusinesses and loyal customers. Tune in to learn how Little Gull Bistro has become a dining destination.

Listen now to get inspired by the flavors and storiesbehind Little Gull Bistro!

In this episode of Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time, we sit down with Sarah Santos, the Community Connections Coordinator at the Pictou County Partnership. Originally from Brazil, Sarah moved to Pictou County over five years ago. Now, she uses her own experiences to welcome and support newcomers, helping them integrate and build connections in the community.

Tune in to hear her journey and learn more about the Community Connections Volunteer Matching Program!

Interested in getting involved?

Email community@pictoucountypartnership.com and follow the Pictou County Partnership on social media.

🎧 Listen now!

This week on Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time, we welcome Nicole LeBlanc, Project Navigator for Healthy Pictou County. This local initiative plays a vital role in attracting and retaining medical staff and students in our region, ensuring our community continues to grow and thrive.

Tune in to learn more about their work, the impact of healthcare recruitment, and how New to the Crew events and other initiatives are helping new medical professionals feel at home in Pictou County!

🔗 Learn more at healthypictoucounty.ca

In this week's episode, we are joined by John Ashton, owner of Ashton Creative Design and a dedicated local historian.

John shares how adaptability and perseverance have shaped his career, tracing his journey from freelance graphic designer to historian and published author. He discusses the evolution of his business, the creation of the Pictou County poster series, and his deep passion for local history.

John also explores the stories of the Ship Hector settlers, the transformation of industry and entrepreneurship in the region, and the Town of New Glasgow's upcoming 150 anniversary celebrations.

Tune in for a discussion on creativity, history, and the entrepreneurial spirit that defines Pictou County!

In this episode ofGrowing Pictou County, One Story at a Time, we welcomeRohan Mishra, who moved fromIndia 🇮🇳to Canada and, after completing hisMaster's Degree in New Brunswick, made Pictou County his home. Now working as theEnvironmental and Sustainability Lead for the Town of New Glasgow, Rohan is passionate about engaging the community in environmental initiatives, including theNet Zero Volunteer Program.

Tune in to hear his journey, his insights on sustainability, and how volunteering plays a role in building stronger communities!

🌱Interested in joining the Net Zero Volunteer Program? Sign up here:Net Zero Volunteer Form

🙌 To learn more aboutvolunteering to support newcomers in Pictou County, visitpictoucountypartnership.com or follow the Pictou County Partnership on social media.

This week on Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time, Becky Cowen, Director of Immigration and Community Integration at the Pictou County Partnership, joins us to discuss an exciting milestone: Pictou County’s selection to participate in Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada’s (IRCC) Rural Community Immigration Pilot. 🌍

In this episode, Becky explains what the pilot program means for Pictou County, how it will help attract and retain newcomers, and the opportunities it brings for community and economic growth.

✨ Learn more about the Pictou County Partnership and this pilot program by following them on social media or visiting pictoucountypartnership.com.

In this episode of "Growing Pictou County, one story at a time", we’re talking all things collectibles with Victoria from Henry’s Hut in New Glasgow! She shares the story behind her shop, which offers everything from trading cards to gaming consoles, and how she built her business while balancing family life.

We discuss the power of shopping local, the challenges of running a small business, and the community that makes it all worthwhile. Tune in for a fun and insightful conversation!

Episodes originally air on 98.9 XFM.

This week on Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time, we’re joined by Sarah and Atma Maharaj, who moved with their family from Ontario to Pictou County a few years ago and have made it their home.

Atma moved to Canada from Trinidad and Tobago as a child and met Sarah in college in Ontario. A few years ago, they settled in Pictou County, where they’ve embraced the value of volunteering and creating connections. From hosting an annual Diwali celebration to welcoming new friendships, Sarah and Atma reflect on how volunteering has enriched their lives, strengthened their family, and helped them build deeper ties within the community.

✨ Listen to their full story and be inspired to get involved in your community!

Interested in volunteering? Learn more about the Community Connections Volunteer Matching Program, which pairs volunteers with newcomers to support their integration into the community. Email community@pictoucountypartnership.com for more information.

This special compilation episode brings together inspiring stories from previous episodes featuring participants of the ELEVATE Program.

Hear directly from local entrepreneurs about how the program helped them validate and grow their businesses, collaborate with other local businesses, and find new opportunities.

Featured Guests:

- Jeff Parker, Parker’s Barn

- Carey Allan, Groovy Little Gift Shop and Plant-B Clothing Design

- Aleksandra Trajkovic, Not the End

- Darrah DeYoung, Baked & Boujee Cheesecakes

🎧 Tune in to hear:

- How the ELEVATE Program provided top-notch training and networking opportunities

- Inspiring personal stories of growth and accountability

- How the ongoing support from the Pictou County Partnership in helping businesses thrive

📌 Don’t miss this insightful episode!

In this episode of "Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time", Cathy Munro of Bramble Hill Farm shares exciting news - the fresh microgreens part of her business is now owned by Tracy and David Hutchings, owners of Go West Homestead in Merigomish.

Originally from Ontario, they now call Pictou County homeand are carrying forward a mission of food security and community resilience in Pictou County through year-round greenhouse farming.

Rooted in agriculture, this episode highlights howsuccession planning can drive growth, spark innovation, and create opportunity—at any stage of a business. If you're passionate about local food systems, rural entrepreneurship, or the impact of mentorship, this conversation is for you.

Episodes originally air on 98.9XFM on Thursdays.

It’s time for another episode of Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time, brought to you by the Pictou County Partnership! 🎙️

This week, we’re joined by Oksana Sichkar, who moved from Ukraine to Pictou County two years ago with her family. Combining her passion for books, her experience as a University Professor of Literature in Ukraine, and her current role as an Educational Assistant here in Pictou County, Oksana has written her first bilingual children’s book in Ukrainian and English. 📚✨

Hear Oksana’s inspiring story of resilience and creativity and how she’s making her mark in Pictou County.

You can find Oksana’s bilingual children’s book on Amazon here: https://a.co/d/5Kwyppf.

To learn more about Community Connections, the Partnership’s volunteer matching program that supports newcomers, email community@pictoucountypartnership.com.

Join us next week for another inspiring story!

Join us on “Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time” with Carissa Ainslie, Executive Director of Creative Pictou County.

Carissa tells us about their new space at the DeCoste Performing Arts Centre and the vital role art plays in our community. Hear Carissa share more about how the creative sector supports wellness, strengthens our local economy, helps build a vibrant tourism region, and enriches our daily lives—because art truly matters.

Learn about the mission behind Creative Pictou County, their exciting upcoming initiatives, and how you can connect with the thriving art sector in Pictou County.

📻 Episodes originally air Thursday mornings on 98.9 XFM.

Over the past three weeks, our radio partner 989XFM aired a special compilation of some of our best moments from Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time in 2024. 🎙️ We’re excited to bring those three episodes to Spotify so you can revisit the inspiring stories of newcomers who’ve chosen Pictou County as their home. 🌍🏡

A huge shoutout to Ann MacGregor for jumping into this project with creativity and professionalism and to 989XFM for believing in this idea and helping us share these stories across the airwaves. A special thank you to the Office of Healthcare Professionals Recruitment for providing the funding that makes this project possible.

Most importantly, thanks to all the newcomers, volunteers, and service providers who generously shared their stories and experiences. 💙 You’ve all helped grow a more inclusive and welcoming community here in Pictou County.

We’ve got lots of exciting projects in the works for 2025, so stay tuned—we’re just getting started! 🎉

Over the past three weeks, our radio partner 989XFM aired a special compilation of some of our best moments from Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time in 2024. 🎙️ We’re excited to bring those three episodes to Spotify so you can revisit the inspiring stories of newcomers who’ve chosen Pictou County as their home. 🌍🏡

A huge shoutout to Ann MacGregor for jumping into this project with creativity and professionalism and to 989XFM for believing in this idea and helping us share these stories across the airwaves. A special thank you to the Office of Healthcare Professionals Recruitment for providing the funding that makes this project possible.

Most importantly, thanks to all the newcomers, volunteers, and service providers who generously shared their stories and experiences. 💙 You’ve all helped grow a more inclusive and welcoming community here in Pictou County.

We’ve got lots of exciting projects in the works for 2025, so stay tuned—we’re just getting started! 🎉

Over the past three weeks, our radio partner 989XFM aired a special compilation of some of our best moments from Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time in 2024. 🎙️ We’re excited to bring those three episodes to Spotify so you can revisit the inspiring stories of newcomers who’ve chosen Pictou County as their home. 🌍🏡

A huge shoutout to Ann MacGregor for jumping into this project with creativity and professionalism and to 989XFM for believing in this idea and helping us share these stories across the airwaves. A special thank you to the Office of Healthcare Professionals Recruitment for providing the funding that makes this project possible.

Most importantly, thanks to all the newcomers, volunteers, and service providers who generously shared their stories and experiences. 💙 You’ve all helped grow a more inclusive and welcoming community here in Pictou County.

We’ve got lots of exciting projects in the works for 2025, so stay tuned—we’re just getting started! 🎉

In this episode of '"Growing Pictou County, one story at a time," Wade Tibbo, CEO of the Pictou County Partnership, reflects on key highlights from the past year, including:

💼 $3M+ in payroll in the local economy through job creation and retention efforts
🌍 61 newcomers and their families welcomed to Pictou County.
💸 $8M+ in funding applications submitted for local non-profits.
👶 $4M+ annual economic impact from new childcare spaces and inclusivity projects.
🏢 300+ businesses connected, with 100+ supported in startup, growth, and succession planning.
📈 190 new jobs projected from business expansions.
🏠 70+ affordable housing units created by repurposing deteriorating buildings.
🎙️ 40+ episodes of the Growing Pictou County podcast
🌎 1 of 7 cities globally to establish the International Network of Michelin Cities’ Corridor of Incubation Tune in to learn more about these achievements and about the Partnership's commitment to fostering prosperity in Pictou County. 🎧 Listen now!

Episodes originally air on 98.9 XFM.

It’s time for another episode of Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time, brought to you by the Pictou County Partnership! 🌟

This week, we’re joined by Sue MacIntosh, one of the founders of Pictou County Safe Harbour—a volunteer-driven, non-profit refugee sponsorship society. Sue shares how Safe Harbour provides newcomers with a warm welcome and connects them to the resources they need to achieve social and economic empowerment. 🌍❤️

Safe Harbour’s volunteers have played a vital role in welcoming former refugee families to Pictou County over the years. Some of these families came through the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP), which helps highly skilled refugees find meaningful work in their fields. Thanks to the dedication of volunteers, these families now proudly call Pictou County home. 🏡

To learn more about Safe Harbour and their incredible work, visit pcsafeharbour.ca or connect with them on Facebook. And if you’re interested in Community Connections, the Pictou County Partnership’s volunteer program that pairs community members with newcomers, email community@pictoucountypartnership.com.

Join us next week for another inspiring story on Growing Pictou County! 🎙️

Listen into this episode of “Growing Pictou County, one story at a time” featuring Michelle Ferris, Executive Director, Aberdeen Health Foundation, who shares more about the impact of the Aberdeen Health Foundation and its support to population health in our community.

Hear Michelle talk about “Health” as part of our everyday.

Episodes originally air on Thursday mornings on 98.9 XFM.

It’s time for another episode of Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time, brought to you by the Pictou County Partnership! 🌟 This week, we sit down with Aleksandra Trajkovic, who journeyed from Serbia 🇷🇸, lived in different parts of the world and Canada, and now calls Scotsburn, Pictou County, her home. 🏡

Aleksandra is an “End of Life Doula,” supporting individuals, families, and communities through their death and grief journeys with her business, Not the End. 💕 Let’s hear how her journey led her to Pictou County and the meaningful work she does.

Learn more about Aleksandra’s services at www.nottheend.ca. To explore the Elevate Program and other initiatives for entrepreneurs by the Pictou County Partnership, visit pictoucountypartnership.com or follow them on social media.

Stay tuned for more inspiring stories next week! 🎙️✨

This episode of “Growing Pictou County, one story at a time” welcomes a repeat guest! Kristi Russell returns to chat with us about her new venture - Watervale Springs Retreat.

Discover how Kristi and her husband transformed a piece of land into a serene getaway featuring three stunning tiny-home-style cabins nestled in Salt Springs.

Hear about their focus on supporting local businesses, creating a space for relaxation and connection, and the personal touches you'll find at Watervale Springs.

Listen now to learn more!

🔗 To learn more about Watervale Springs Retreat, visit watervalesprings.ca

Reunion Alert!

This week on “Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time”, Wade Tibbo of the Pictou County Partnership and Ann MacGregor from Nova Scotia Works Career Connections welcome a familiar voice — Gene Mills, Ann’s former morning show co-host.

Gene shares how he turned his love for trivia, music, andmaking memories from a side hustle into Foxy Entertainment –a full-time business.

From tech-powered trivia nights to his custom-built “magic mirror” photo booth, Gene is all about innovation with a local twist.

🎧 From DJing weddings to New to the Crew trivia events with Healthy Pictou County, Gene’s keeping Pictou Countyentertained — one event at a time.

Listen now for a fun and inspiring conversation!

Episodes originally air on 98.9 XFM on Thursdays.

In this episode of Growing Pictou County, we sit down with Jeff Parker of Parker’s Barn in Hopewell, recent winner of the Small Business of the Year Award at the 2024 Pictou County Chamber’s Business Achievement Awards.

Jeff shares the inspiring story of transforming his family’s livestock barn into a bustling event venue, his entrepreneurial family and his participation in the Pictou County Partnership’s Elevate Program. Discover how his dedication to exceptional customer service and creative problem-solving ensures every event at Parker’s Barn is unforgettable. Plus, get a sneak peek at their exciting plans for 2025!

Tune in to learn about Jeff’s commitment to hospitality and growing his business in Pictou County—one event at a time.

Join us as we sit down with Kristi Russell, Manager of the New Glasgow Farmers Market. Kristi chats about the market’s growth, the "Raise the Barn" campaign, and the impact of the market as a small business incubator and community gathering space. Kristi also shares tips for holiday shopping and the importance of supporting local businesses. Listen now to learn more!

Growing Pictou County, one story at a time.

Margie Grant Walsh, the Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters, joins us on this episode of "Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time!"

Margie shares her passion for children and youth in our community, the impactful work of Big Brothers Big Sisters, and how mentorship is changing lives in Pictou County.

For more about the Pictou County Partnership, follow us on social media or visit pictoucountypartnership.com.

Tune in next week for more stories!

#community #impact #mentorship

It’s time for another episode of Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time, brought to you by the Pictou County Partnership! Today, we’re thrilled to introduce Ivana Turcaniova, who found her forever home in Pictou County after a journey that took her from Slovakia 🇸🇰, around the world, and across Canada 🇨🇦. Hear Ivana’s inspiring story of finding community and building a new life in this beautiful part of Nova Scotia! 🌍💙

For more about the Pictou County Partnership, follow us on social media or visit pictoucountypartnership.com.

Tune in next week for more stories!

#Inspiration #NewBeginnings #PictouCounty #Newcomers #Community #ListenNow #ImmigrantSupport #989XFM #Spotify #ImmigrationMatters #PictouCountyPartnership #WelcomingCommunity

Carey Allan, the entrepreneur behind The Groovy Little Gift Shop and Plant B Clothing Design, joins us on this episode of Growing Pictou County, one story at a time!

Carey shares her journey in sustainable business, the mission of her clothing line, and how she’s working to introduce school gardens in Pictou County. Plus, hear about her experience in the Pictou County Partnership’s Elevate Program.

Tune in to listen to Carey's story and be inspired by her community-driven approach!

We’re kicking off 2024 Canada Career Month with an inspiring double interview on Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time!

Join us as Kate MacPhee and Ann MacGregor from NS Works - Career Connections share how they’re supporting newcomers and employers on their recruitment and retention journeys. 🌍💼

To learn more about career support services and stay updated, follow NS Works Career Connections on their website and Facebook.

🍲 We’re joined by Alain Bossé, The Kilted Chef, in our latest episode of “Growing Pictou County, one story at a time”! Alain shares his journey from Acadian roots in New Brunswick to establishing a culinary brand in Nova Scotia.

Alain discusses how the Kilted Chef originated, his commitment to local products, and his work to support Atlantic Canadian businesses. Tune in to hear about his unique path, tips for aspiring entrepreneurs, and why he’s proud to call Pictou County home.

Plus, get a sneak peek into his upcoming culinary cruise and where to find his popular recipes online!

We’re back with another heartwarming story on Growing Pictou County, one story at a time! This week, we’re joined by Thekla Altmann, who made the exciting journey from Germany to Pictou County and found her dream job at the Trenton Library 📚✨. Curious to hear how she made Pictou County her new home and the role the library plays in her story? Tune in now! 🎧

P.S. Did you know there’s always something fun happening at our local libraries? Be sure to check out all the amazing events and services at a library branch near you! 🏛️❤️

#PictouCountyStories #NewcomerJourney #CommunityConnections #PictouCountyPartnership #LibraryLife #TrentonLibrary #GrowingTogether

Stay tuned for next week’s episode! 🌍✨

In this Small Business Week episode of "Growing Pictou County, one story at a time," we sit down with Ola Williams, a serial entrepreneur and owner of Cornish’s Variety.

Ola talks about how she connected with the Cornish family, who had owned the business for generations and how warmly she was welcomed to Pictou County by the local community. She reflects on taking over an established business, earning the trust of loyal customers, and continuing its legacy while introducing new ideas, like serving ice cream by popular demand!

Ola reflects on the importance of preserving the legacy of the long-standing business while introducing new ideas, like offering ice cream based on customer feedback. She also discusses her two startups, CashLoop Technologies and Kinder Root, and her passion for teaching financial literacy. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about community and business growth.

Connect with Ola at olawilliams.ca

🌟 It’s time for another episode of Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time 🎙️, brought to you by the Pictou County Partnership!

In this episode, recorded at the Recreation Nova Scotia Conference, we sit down with Nicole LeBlanc from Healthy Pictou County, Sally O’Neill from the Town of Pictou, and Becky Cowen from the Pictou County Partnership. They share insights from their session, You Belong Here, focusing on how collaboration is key to creating a more welcoming and inclusive community for newcomers 🤝🌍.

We also explore exciting initiatives, funded by the Office of Healthcare Professionals Recruitment Community Fund, that are helping make Pictou County an even more supportive home for newcomers 🌟.

A special shoutout goes to the YMCA Centre for Immigrant Programs Pictou County whose settlement services are essential in helping newcomers build their lives here. We also recognize other amazing organizations like the North Shore LIP, Pictou County Safe Harbour, CAIRN, the Multicultural Association of Pictou County, the Pictou-Antigonish Regional Library, Active Pictou County, and many more!💪

🚨 Looking to volunteer with newcomers? Message us at community@pictoucountypartnership.com. 📧

✨ Are you a newcomer seeking support?

Reach out to the YMCA Centre for Immigrant Programs at yispictou.county@halifax.ymca.ca to learn about available programs. 📧

Thank you to Recreation Nova Scotia for this opportunity! ❤️

#NewcomerSupport #InclusiveCommunities #PictouCounty #Collaboration #VolunteerOpportunities #WelcomingCommunities #RecreationNS #YouBelongHere #CommunityMatters #HealthyPictouCounty #ImmigrationMatters

In this episode of “Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time”, we're joined by Allesondra Roddick and Matthew Webb of My Grandfather’s Farm who are continuing a family tradition as the take the farm into its next generation of operation.

They share how they blend tradition with innovation—combining time-tested practices like crop rotation with modern methods such as environmentally friendly fertilizer sprays.

They share details of their plans for the upcoming season, and how the Pictou County Partnership's ELEVATE Program is helping them grow their business with purpose.

Listen now to learn more!

Episodes originally air on 98.9 XFM on Thursdays.

In this episode of “Growing Pictou County, one story at a time”, we sit down with Maddie Kennedy, owner of Queer Glow Candle Co, who recently joined the Pictou County Partnership as Program Coordinator for 2SLGBTQI+ Business Support. 🌈✨ Maddie shares her inspiring entrepreneurial journey, from starting her business as a part of a project at NSCC to supporting 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs in Pictou County. Tune in to hear how she's turning candles into a symbol of community and pride, the lessons learned in the Side Hustle Program, and how her new role aims to create more inclusive spaces for 2SLGBTQI+ entrepreneurs in Pictou County. 🔥🕯️

This episode is full of insights on the power of community and personalizing your business to make a positive impact. Listen now to hear Maddie's story and learn more about growing a business with passion and purpose.

Episodes originally air on 98.9 XFM on Thursdays.

Join us on the latest episode of “Growing Pictou County, one story at a time” as we sit down with David Hachey, Business Development Advisor, Northeastern Region at Invest Nova Scotia!

Tune in to hear about the unique opportunities that rural Nova Scotia offers and how Invest Nova Scotia is supporting local businesses in sectors like manufactured housing.

David also dives into key programs like the Export Development Program and how they’re supporting businesses in Pictou County to grow locally and beyond. If you're curious about exporting or expanding your business, this episode is for you!

🎧 Don't miss out—listen now to hear how David and Invest NS are helping local businesses succeed!

Episodes originally air on 98.9 XFM.

Over the next 10 years, 76% of businesses will transition, yet only 9% of business owners have a succession plan.

In this episode of the Pictou County Partnership's "Growing Pictou County, one story at a time", Wendy Brookhouse, Founder and Chief Strategist of Black Star Wealth, joins us to discuss the importance of business transition planning. Wendy shares practical tips for preparing your business for succession and increasing its value.

She also discusses the upcoming "Elevate Your Business Value Workshop", which will offer business owners actionable insights to build a more sellable and valuable company.

This workshop focuses not only on succession planning but also on helping owners structure their day-to-day operations, implement effective systems, and delegate tasks—making their businesses more attractive to buyers and more enjoyable to run.

For more information or to register for the October 29, 2024 workshop, click here. Listen now and start planning for your business's future!

Episodes originally air on 98.9 XFM on Thursdays.

New Podcast – Growing Pictou County – One story at a time!

In this week’s podcast, we’re excited to sit down with Layla Rahmeh, the new Executive Director of the Pictou County Chamber of Commerce.

Originally from Syria, Layla moved to Canada twelve years ago and has since held roles at Scotiabank and the Chamber of Commerce in Fredericton. Now, she’s here in Pictou County, working diligently with our local Chamber to support and uplift small businesses in Pictou County.

With a passion for small business and a deep admiration for the courage and determination entrepreneurs embody, Layla is committed to helping others succeed. As the saying goes in Syria, “Wherever you can earn a living and build a life, that’s home,” and Layla has found exactly that here in Pictou County.

Whether you’re a Chamber member or simply curious about the Chamber’s work, Layla and her team are ready to listen and assist. You can visit them at the IGNITE building, 352 East River Road, or reach out via email at info@pictoucountychamber.com.

In this episode of Growing Pictou County, one story at a time, we sit down with Sarah Deschiffert and Dave Armstrong, founders of Big Cove Foods.

🌱From their start at the New Glasgow Farmers Market, Big Cove Foods' unique spice blends can now be found on store shelves in Atlantic and Eastern Canada. Sarah and Dave share the inspiring journey of their business evolution, the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, and how community support in Pictou County has played a key role in their success.

🍲🍦They also give us a sneak peek into their exciting new venture, Big Cove Snack Market, set to open in October. Tune in to hear about their passion for food, collaboration with local partners, and advice for budding entrepreneurs!

🔗 Follow Big Cove Foods or Big Cove Snack Market on social media or visit their website www.bigcovefoods.com to stay updated on their latest offerings and their new snack market launch!

To learn more about the Pictou County Partnership, visit our website or follow us on social media.

Episodes originally air on 98.9 XFM on Thursdays.

In this week’s episode of Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time, we highlight the incredible work of Catalina Martinez, the YREACH settlement support worker at the YMCA Centre for Immigrant Programs Pictou County. Catalina, who moved to Pictou County from Colombia, plays a crucial role in supporting newcomers by helping them navigate life in the region. From making referrals to community partners and connecting newcomers with employment opportunities, to offering English classes and creating settlement plans, Catalina ensures that every newcomer has the support they need to settle in Pictou County.

Through her work, she facilitate immigration programs to make Pictou County a more welcoming community. Whether you're a newcomer or a local, Catalina’s story of community-building and empowerment will inspire you!

New to the region? Connect with the YMCA Centre for Immigrant Programs Pictou County for resources and support.

In this episode of "Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time," we chat with Shannon Bouchie, Business Analyst at CBDC NOBL.

Shannon shares insights on business financing, training, succession planning, and the resources available to entrepreneurs in our region through NOBL. Shannon provides practical advice for entrepreneurs at any stage and how NOBL’s approach helps small businesses succeed.

Whether you're starting, expanding, or planning for the future of your business, this episode has something for everyone.

Episodes originally air on 98.9 XFM on Thursdays.

Hosted by the Pictou County Partnership and Ann MacGregor from Career Connections.

🎙 Welcome back to Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time — brought to you by the Pictou County Partnership! Today, we have a special guest, Reverend Donna Tourneur, minister at Trinity United Church in New Glasgow. But her impact goes beyond the pulpit—she’s also one of the founders of Pictou County Safe Harbour, a volunteer-driven, non-profit refugee sponsorship society. Safe Harbour works to provide newcomers with a warm welcome and connects them to the resources they need for social and economic empowerment. Let’s dive into her inspiring journey and the incredible work being done in our community! 🌟

In this episode of “Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time”, hosts Cindy James (Pictou County Partnership) and Ann MacGregor (Nova Scotia Works/Career Connections) chat with Darrah Deyoung, the entrepreneur and baker behind Baked & Boujee Cheesecakes.

Darrah shares the story of how she started her deliciously creative business, the challenges and rewards of being an entrepreneur in Pictou County, and her vision for the future of Baked & Boujee. Join us for this sweet and insightful conversation about entrepreneurship, passion, and community.

Follow us for more inspiring local business stories!

🎙️ Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time is back, brought to you by the Pictou County Partnership!

In this episode, we sit down with Esther Bejarano, Coordinator of the North Shore Local Immigration Partnership for the YMCA. Originally from Mexico, Esther’s journey has taken her from the US to Canada, where she now helps businesses and organizations across Pictou, Colchester, and Antigonish counties create more welcoming environments for newcomers. 🌍✨

Tune in to hear Esther’s inspiring story and learn about the incredible work happening in our region to support community growth! 🙌

#PictouCounty #WelcomingWeek #NewcomerStories #CommunitySupport #GrowTogether #ImmigrationMatters

In this episode, we’re joined by Aaron Fanning, MentorAbility Facilitator with Nova Scotia Works Career Connections, to explore how mentorship can unlock new opportunities for people experiencing disabilities.

Aaron shares the impact of the MentorAbility program acrossPictou, Antigonish, and Guysborough counties—connecting job seekers with disabilities to inclusive, short-term mentorship experiences that build networks, confidence, and pathways to employment. Aaron shares why inclusivehiring matters and how businesses of all sizes can get involved.

Listen now to learn more!

In this episode, we sit down with Bob Bennett, the Executive Director of Summer Street, an organization dedicated to providing opportunities for adults with intellectual disabilities in Pictou County.

Bob shares the journey of Summer Street, discussing their innovative programs, the challenges they face, and their commitment to fostering independence and inclusion.

Join us as we explore how Summer Street is making a significant impact in the community, one person at a time.

Join us for a heartwarming episode of Growing Pictou County, One Story at a Time, brought to you by the Pictou County Partnership. Our guest this week is Janet Goguen Proudfoot, who found her forever home in Pictou County after moving from Boston to study at St. FX. As a former music teacher and a dedicated member of the Multicultural Association of Pictou County, Janet makes a significant impact on our community. Tune in to hear her inspiring journey and contributions to the cultural fabric of Pictou County!

🎙️In this episode of "Growing Pictou County, one story at a time", brought to you by the Pictou County Partnership, we sit down with Cathy Munro, the inspiring owner of Bramble Hill Farm.

🌱From a fisheries scientist to a thriving microgreen farmer, Cathy shares her journey of accidental entrepreneurship. She talks about the challenges and rewards of running a year-round greenhouse operation in Pictou County, the pivotal moments that shaped her business, and how the local community played a crucial role in her success.

Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or just love a good story, tune in to hear Cathy’s unique perspective on business, family, and community.

🎧 Listen now to hear how Cathy turned her side hustle into a successful full-time venture!

To learn more about Bramble Hill Farm, follow them on Facebook or Instagram.

For more information on the Pictou County Partnership, follow us on social media or visit www.pictoucountypartnership.com

In this episode of the Pictou County Partnership’s "Growing Pictou County, one story at a time," the Partnership and Ann MacGregor from Career Connections sit down with Erin Pettipas, the owner of Pastasalt.

🍴 Erin shares the inspiring journey of how her business grew from a simple Instagram hobby into a thriving venture offering catering and private chef services. We discuss her love for food, unexpected milestones like viral TikTok success, and how the supportive Pictou County community has helped her along the way. Erin also shares insight into her future plans.

🎧Tune in to hear Erin’s story and learn more about the delicious offerings of Pastasalt.

To learn more about Pastasalt, follow them on Instagram or Facebook

To learn more about the Pictou County Partnership, follow us on social media or visit our website pictoucountypartnership.com