Explore every episode of the podcast The Lincoln Local
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Distilling Lincoln: Inside Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers | 08 sept. 2026 | 00:33:38 | |
What makes Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers uniquely Lincoln? In this episode of The Lincoln Local, Sara Wilde and Stephanie Hicks sit down with Anthony D’Aprile, General Manager of Dillon’s, to go behind the bottle and explore the people, process and local ingredients behind one of Lincoln’s best-known craft beverage businesses. Since opening in 2012, Dillon’s has grown from its small-batch spirits into ready-to-drink cocktails, tastings, tours and hands-on experiences—all while staying connected to the farmers, growers and community around it. Anthony takes us inside the art and science of distilling, talks about the importance of Niagara ingredients, shares how Dillon’s supported the community during the pandemic, and explains why experiences have become such an important part of the business. Plus, we find out Anthony’s favourite Dillon’s products, cocktail preferences, and what’s coming up at the distillery—including Teenies & Weenies on September 20, 2026 and Dillon’s Craft Your Own Gin experiences. 🍸 In this episode: Learn more: Dillons.ca Have a topic you want us to cover? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at Thanks & Credits With support from: | |||
| Back to School, Back to Safety: What’s Getting Better on Lincoln’s Roads | 01 sept. 2026 | 00:40:44 | |
Back to school means more buses, bikes, pedestrians, parents and vehicles sharing the road — and that makes it a perfect time for a conversation about road safety. In this episode of The Lincoln Local, Sara and Stephanie are joined by Scott Fraser, Associate Director of Transportation Planning with Niagara Region, and Diane Maceira, Manager of Operational Engineering with the Town of Lincoln, to talk about what happens behind the scenes to make our roads safer. We talk about:
As Scott puts it, slowing down in a school zone from 60 km/h to 40 km/h only adds a couple of seconds to your trip — but those seconds can make a huge difference. The takeaway? Slow down, stay alert, put the phone away, give yourself a little extra time, and remember that the person you're sharing the road with is someone who wants to get home safely too. Learn More & Get Involved 🚗 Niagara Region Transportation Planning 🛣️ Town of Lincoln Have a topic you want us to cover? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at Thanks & Credits With support from: | |||
| Building Lincoln’s Business Community: The Chamber, the BIA and the Town | 11 août 2026 | 00:52:28 | |
How do the Town of Lincoln, the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Bench Beamsville BIA each support local businesses—and what becomes possible when they work together? In this episode of The Lincoln Local, co-hosts Stephanie Hicks and Sara Wilde welcome Emilia Amaro, Executive Director of the Lincoln Chamber of Commerce, and Jennifer Blackledge, Executive Director of the Downtown Bench Beamsville BIA. They break down the distinct roles of the Chamber and BIA, how their members shape their priorities, and how both organizations turn local business needs into practical advocacy, resources, connections, programming, events, beautification, marketing and activations. The conversation explores meaningful networking, tariff-response collaboration, inclusive community-building and the many ways residents can support local businesses—even when they are not making a purchase. Emilia and Jennifer also share what is coming up on their organizations’ calendars, including the Chamber’s Annual General Meeting and Outstanding Business Achievement Awards, as well as Roll in Rotary, Bike the Benchlands and Fling off King. Stay for a lively quick-fire round covering leadership superpowers, meetings, marketing budgets and why Lincoln feels like both community and home. Learn More Lincoln Chamber of Commerce Downtown Bench Beamsville BIA Have a topic you want us to cover? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at Thanks & Credits With support from: | |||
| Your Vote, Your Voice: A Practical Guide to Lincoln's 2026 Municipal Election | 04 août 2026 | 00:16:29 | |
Municipal elections have a direct impact on the roads you drive, the parks you enjoy, the services you rely on, and the future of our community. In this episode of The Lincoln Local, hosts Sara Wilde and Stephanie Hicks sit down with Town Clerk Julie Kirkelos and Deputy Clerk Linsey Comley to break down everything residents need to know about the 2026 Town of Lincoln Municipal Election. Whether you're planning to vote, interested in working the election, or considering running for office, this episode covers key dates, voting options, candidate information, and how you can play a role in shaping Lincoln's future. In this episode:
Key Election Dates 📍 August 12 – Last day to register or update your information through Register to Vote Ontario 📍 August 21 (2:00 p.m.) – Candidate nomination deadline 📍 August 24 – Official list of certified candidates released 📍 Late September – Voter Information Letters mailed 📍 October 7–21 – Secure online voting available 📍 October 14, 17 & 21 – Advance in-person voting at Town Hall (10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.) 📍 October 26 – Election Day (10:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m.) Looking for more information? 🗳️ Town of Lincoln Municipal Election information: 👥 Interested in becoming an Election Worker? 📧 Questions? Have a topic you want us to cover? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at Thanks & Credits With support from: | |||
| From Field to Froyo: Lincoln's Sweetest Local Story | 14 juil. 2026 | 00:47:53 | |
Fresh strawberries are only the beginning. In this episode of The Lincoln Local, hosts Sara Wilde and Stephanie Hicks sit down with Jeff Tigchelaar of Tigchelaar Berry Farms and Julia Boekestyn of The Red Barn Farm Market & Bakery to explore the journey from field to farm market—and eventually to pies, pastries and frozen yogurt. Jeff shares how generations of farming experience, innovative growing methods and Lincoln's unique microclimate produce some of Ontario's sweetest strawberries. Julia gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at running one of Lincoln's favourite farm markets, creating seasonal baked goods and turning local harvests into unforgettable experiences. From strawberry fields and beneficial insects to fresh pies, froyo and community connections, this conversation celebrates the people, passion and partnerships that make Lincoln's agricultural community thrive. Whether you're planning a summer road trip, looking for fresh local produce or simply love hearing the stories behind the food on your table, this episode is packed with local flavour. Learn More 🍓 Tigchelaar Berry Farms 🥧 Red Barn Farm Market & Bakery 📸 Follow them on Instagram
Have a topic you want us to cover? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at Thanks & Credits With support from: | |||
| Time, Talent & Treasure: How Giving Changes Communities | 07 juil. 2026 | 00:27:06 | |
What does philanthropy really mean—and is it only for the wealthy? In this episode of The Lincoln Local, we sit down with Bryan Rose, Executive Director of the Niagara Community Foundation, to explore how generosity is transforming communities across Niagara. From surpassing $100 million in assets to supporting more than 250 local charities each year, Bryan shares how the Foundation helps fund everything from food banks and affordable housing to libraries, museums, parks, youth programs and community spaces—including projects right here in Lincoln. We also dive into the myths surrounding philanthropy, why anyone can make a difference, and Bryan's simple but powerful philosophy of the Three T's: Time, Talent and Treasure. Whether you're looking to volunteer, give back, or simply learn more about the incredible organizations strengthening our communities, this episode is full of inspiring stories and practical ways to get involved. Learn more about Niagara Community Foundation Website: https://niagaracommunityfoundation.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NiagaraCF Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/niagaracommunityfoundation/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/niagara-community-foundation/ Have a topic you want us to cover? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at Thanks & Credits With support from: | |||
| From Fashion to Food: Building Two Beloved Lincoln Businesses | 09 juin 2026 | 00:48:24 | |
This episode of The Lincoln Local, hosts Sara Wilde and Stephanie Hicks sit down with Jacquelene Del Col, owner of Tintern Road & Jack Style Collective and Zooma Caters, to celebrate 30 years of entrepreneurship, creativity, and community in Lincoln. From her beginnings as a photographer for the Toronto Sun to designing clothing sold across Canada, Jacquelene shares the unexpected journey that led to opening one of Jordan Village's most beloved destinations. The conversation explores: Along the way, Jacquelene shares lessons learned from 30 years in business, stories from the pandemic, insights into customer service, and why she has no plans to retire anytime soon. Whether you're passionate about fashion, food, entrepreneurship, or simply love supporting local businesses, this episode is packed with inspiration and community pride. Tintern Road & Jack Style Collective 📍 3845 Main Street, Jordan Village, Ontario 🌐 Website: tinternroad.ca 📸 Instagram: 📘 Facebook: Zooma Caters 🌐 Website: zoomacaters.ca 📸 Instagram: 📘 Facebook: Mentioned in this Episode Jordan Village Located in the heart of the Niagara Benchlands, Jordan Village offers boutique shopping, dining, wineries, craft beverages, heritage attractions, and scenic experiences. Niagara Benchlands Explore vineyards, orchards, culinary experiences, cycling routes, hiking trails, heritage sites, and charming villages throughout Lincoln. 🌐 https://www.niagarabenchlands.ca Upcoming Dates & Celebrations 🎉 Tintern Road & Jack Style Collective celebrates 30 years in 2026 👗 50th Fashion Show 🛍️ New arrivals arrive weekly at Tintern Road & Jack Style Collective. 🍽️ Zooma Caters offers private dining experiences and seasonal barn dinners throughout the year. Have a topic you want us to cover? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at Thanks & Credits With support from: | |||
| Find Your Way to Play: Summer Activities and Community Life in Lincoln | 02 juin 2026 | 00:19:53 | |
Summer is here, and Lincoln is packed with opportunities to get outside, stay active, and connect with your community. In this episode of The Lincoln Local, Sara Wilde and Stephanie Hicks chat with Shannon McKay, Director of Strategic Initiatives and Community Services, about everything happening across Lincoln this summer. From parks, recreation programs, summer camps, splash pads, and swimming lessons to Seniors Month activities and Canada Day celebrations, Shannon shares how these programs help create healthy, connected communities. You'll also hear why parks and recreation are about much more than fun, plus get the latest summer updates during Talk of the Town Tea and a lightning round featuring summer favourites, savoury s'mores, and an unexpectedly passionate conversation about oysters. Episode Highlights
Important Dates Senior Showcase Senior Flag Raising AFG Pool Opens Jordan Lions Pool Opens Canada Day Celebration Have a topic you want us to cover? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at Thanks & Credits With support from: | |||
| Private Wine Tours With Local Insiders | 12 mai 2026 | 00:51:31 | |
What happens when two wine-loving friends turn their passion for Niagara Benchlands into a business? 🍷 In this episode of The Lincoln Local, hosts Sara Wilde and Stephanie Hicks sit down with Jennifer Pratt and Graham Cocking — the husband-and-wife duo behind Crush on Niagara Wine Tours. From hidden gem wineries and private curated tours to the realities of building a tourism business together as a married couple, this episode dives into what makes Niagara Benchlands such a unique destination. Jennifer and Graham share stories about:
Whether you’re planning your next girls’ getaway, celebrating something special, or simply looking to rediscover your own backyard, this episode is packed with local love, tourism insight, and plenty of laughs. 🌐 Website: https://crushtours.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crushtours/ Mentioned in this Episode
Theatre Bacchus – The Invisible Man Experience Theatre Bacchus’ spring production of The Invisible Man at the Lincoln Community Hub. 🎭 Tickets Mayor Easton’s Charity Golf Tournament Hosted at Twenty Valley Golf & Country Club. 📅 Registration & Sponsorship Info Have a topic you want us to cover? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at Thanks & Credits With support from: | |||
| What If Preserving History Means Preserving Play | 05 mai 2026 | 00:25:01 | |
When was the last time you actually went to a museum… not on a school trip, not because you had to—but because you wanted to? With May being Museum Month across Ontario, we’re taking you inside one of Lincoln’s most meaningful (and surprisingly fun) spaces—the Lincoln Museum and Cultural Centre. And trust us… it’s not what you think. In this episode of The Lincoln Local, we sit down with: We’re talking about:
Plus, we spill the Talk of the Town Tea ☕ with upcoming events you won’t want to miss 👇 📅 What’s Happening at the Museum
❤️ Want to Support the Schoolhouse? If preserving spaces like the schoolhouse matters to you, you can learn more or donate here: Have a topic you want us to cover? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at Thanks & Credits With support from: | |||
| Cleaning Up the Big Melt: Youth, Community, and the Power of One Hour | 14 avr. 2026 | 00:14:46 | |
As winter fades and the “Big Melt” reveals what’s been hidden beneath the snow, this episode of Lincoln Local explores how one community is turning an annual problem into a powerful opportunity. Featuring Jennifer Blackledge, Executive Director of the Downtown Bench Beamsville BIA, the conversation dives into the Downtown Tidy, an Earth Day initiative that brings together students, local businesses, and community partners to clean up the downtown core in just one hour. Beyond the impressive environmental impact—hundreds of kilograms of waste collected—the episode highlights the deeper purpose: fostering community pride, youth engagement, and long-term behavior change. It’s a story about placemaking, collaboration, and how small, local actions can create lasting ripple effects. 📅 Key Dates & Events
🔗 Helpful Links (Click to Learn More)
Have a topic you want us to cover? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at Thanks & Credits With support from: | |||
| Growing a Greener Lincoln: Trees, Climate & Community Action | 07 avr. 2026 | 00:46:15 | |
What do trees, climate change, and your daily life in Lincoln all have in common? In this episode of The Lincoln Local, we’re joined by Adam Kelly (Town of Lincoln) and Dr. Alicia Powell (Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority) to break down how local action is shaping a greener, more resilient future. From tree canopy protection and climate planning to community programs and volunteer opportunities, we explore what’s happening behind the scenes—and how you can be part of it. 🌿 What We Talk About
🍵 Talk of the Town (Events & Updates) Earth Week (April):
Upcoming Events:
🌱 Get Involved Volunteer, plant, or learn more:
🌿 Community Highlight: First Beamsville Scouting
Learn more: Have a topic you want us to cover? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at Thanks & Credits With support from: | |||
| Food, Flow + Fearless Women: Starting Over and Serving with Love | 10 mars 2026 | 00:52:47 | |
This episode of The Lincoln Local celebrates International Women’s Day with two women entrepreneurs who are helping shape Lincoln — through food, wellness, and community. First, we sit down with Sharon, owner of Butcher and Banker, who shares the remarkable story behind one of Lincoln’s favourite local restaurants. Along the way, she shares the philosophy behind her menu — comfort food made with intention. Plus, she gives us a sneak peek at the St. Patrick’s Day lineup that will have your heart (and appetite) ready to celebrate. Then we slow things down. Jillian, owner of The Yoga Vine Integrated Health Studio and Chair of the Downtown Bench Beamsville BIA, guides us through a simple box breathing exercise that can calm the mind in just four counts. Her story is one of courage, clarity and intention — building a women-led wellness studio rooted in collaboration and community. If you love stories of grit, generosity, and the everyday moments that build community, pull up a chair and join the conversation. Businesses Featured in This Episode Butcher and Banker The Yoga Vine Integrated Health Studio Have a topic you want us to cover? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at Thanks & Credits With support from: | |||
| Leading Local: The Women Making It Work | 03 mars 2026 | 00:30:14 | |
This International Women’s Day, we’re pulling back the curtain on local government and the women who quietly keep democracy moving. Julie Kirkelos, Director of Legislative, Enterprise and Information Services and Town Clerk, and Andrea Chambers, Executive Assistant to the Mayor and CAO, take us inside Town Hall to talk about the kind of leadership that shapes your everyday life. We get real about the invisible load women carry: emotional labour, caregiving, menopause, and sometimes being the only woman at the senior table, while delivering excellence. We say the quiet parts out loud. And we talk solutions. This isn’t just a conversation – it’s a roadmap... If you care about your community, or you’re ready to lead in it, this episode will give you the language, clarity, and confidence to engage or step up. Episode Links & Resources If today’s conversation inspired you to get involved, run for office, or attend an upcoming event, here are the dates and links mentioned in this episode: Municipal Election Day – October 26, 2026 Lincoln Candidate Information Night (Spring 2026) Mayor’s State of the Town – April 29, 2026 Mayor’s Golf Tournament – June 10, 2026 Civil Wedding Ceremonies in Lincoln International Women’s Day CAMEA – Canadian Association of Municipal Executive Assistants Gillian’s Place Have a topic you want us to cover? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at Thanks & Credits With support from: | |||
| The Perfect Pairings: Crafted with Love, Served Local | 10 févr. 2026 | 00:48:27 | |
A quick heads-up: we recorded this episode with a bit of real-life chaos—thanks to some technical gremlins, we were down one microphone. The conversation (and laughs) were too good not to share anyway, and we hope you’ll forgive the occasional audio quirk in favour of keeping it honest and human. 💛 For this Valentine’s-flavoured episode, we dive into The Perfect Pairings that make February feel thoughtful, indulgent, and unmistakably local. From the sugar-warm air and blink-and-they’re-gone strawberry cream donuts at Beamsville Bakery, to modern, anything-but-boring bouquets from The Watering Can, we explore how small businesses turn classic Valentine’s staples into something personal. Ben dishes on the bakery rush, the prep chaos, and why fan-favourite donuts vanish in hours. Sue breaks down why mixed bouquets, dusty pinks, peaches, and soft reds are stealing hearts—and how even last-minute shoppers leave with something that feels intentional, not panic-bought. Then we uncork the romance. At Fielding Estate Winery, Heidi shares why sparkling wine is celebration in a glass, while the team at Upper Canada Cheese helps us build boards that actually work—creamy comfort cheeses with bright bubbles, salty aged cheddars with luscious icewine, and why cider deserves more love at the table. Along the way, Margaret demystifies artisan cheese, from Guernsey milk richness to cave aging and the patience it takes to turn milk into magic. And because no Valentine’s episode is complete without a love story, we end with one rooted right here in Lincoln. Heidi and Curtis Fielding share how a gala tasting turned into a life together, why the best date nights are often the simplest, and how local food, wine, and places turn ordinary moments into memories. The thread through it all? Connection, craft, and community. That’s The Perfect Pairings—and how Lincoln turns February into something warm, delicious, and real. If you loved this episode, follow the show, share it with someone who loves local, and tell us: what’s your perfect pairing this year? 💕🍷🍩 🌸 Featured Lincoln Local Businesses 🌿 The Watering Can Pastry Market 🥐 Beamsville Bakery 🧀 Upper Canada Cheese Company 🍷 Fielding Estate Winery Have a topic you want us to cover? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at Thanks & Credits With support from: | |||
| Meet Lincoln: Stories, Services, Community | 03 févr. 2026 | 00:17:19 | |
Pull up a chair and meet the people behind town hall. We’re kicking off Lincoln Local with a candid, energetic conversation that strips away jargon and brings you inside the decisions, services, and stories shaping the Town of Lincoln. Have a topic you want us to cover? Visit SpeakUp Lincoln at Thanks & Credits With support from: | |||