Bring Back The Porch

Building Homes, Building Hope in Medicine Hat

🏡 What does it take to build more than just a house? In this episode, we sit down with Annette Fahselt-Andreas from Habitat for Humanity Medicine Hat to explore how affordable housing is transforming lives across our community. Learn how families qualify for homeownership, the role volunteers play in creating lasting change, and how Habitat's innovative programs help build both homes and hope. We also discuss fundraising, community partnerships, and the impact of the ReStore on supporting local housing initiatives. Whether you're looking to volunteer, donate, or simply learn more about affordable housing in Medicine Hat, this conversation offers valuable insights into the power of community action. 🎙️ Listen now and discover how you can help make homeownership possible for local families.  Key Topics -Habitat for Humanity's history and local projects -How families qualify for homeownership -Role of volunteers and community support -Funding and fundraising strategies -Educational programs for building skills Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:00 Habitat for Humanity's History and Local Presence 02:03 How Families Are Selected and Qualify 02:57 The New Build in Medicine Hat 03:55 The Restore: A Community Resource 04:56 Volunteer Opportunities and Family Involvement 05:47 Community Reactions and Education Efforts 06:54 Homeownership Support and Home Repairs 07:53 How to Get Involved and Support Habitat 08:55 Qualifications and Application Process 09:57 Mortgage and Financial Support 11:02 Closing Remarks and Call to Action Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]

Manual Not Included: Hidden Seizures, Unexpected Answers

What do you do when something feels "off" with your child—but you can't explain why? In this episode of Manual Not Included, Curt shares how a scary moment with his son led to an unexpected diagnosis: epilepsy. He talks about recognizing the signs, navigating tests and specialists. What to expect and his experience. A powerful conversation about trust, advocacy, and finding answers when you need them most.  Key Topics -Childhood epilepsy and seizures -ADHD diagnosis and misdiagnosis -Medical testing and treatment for epilepsy -Parenting challenges with complex health conditions Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Call to Action 00:58 The Scariest Day as a Parent 03:11 Signs and Symptoms of Seizures 05:34 Diagnosis of Epilepsy 08:30 Navigating ADHD and Epilepsy 11:31 The Epilepsy Test Experience 14:41 Current Status and Future Outlook Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]

Big Trucks, Big Smiles: A Day of Family Fun in Medicine Hat

Rev your engines and gather the family! In this episode, we’re diving into Medicine’s upcoming Big Truck Day—a community favourite packed with massive trucks, hands-on activities, pedal tractors, face painting, and a free barbecue. We’ll also explore exciting summer programs at the local library and discover how these community events bring families together, spark curiosity, and create lasting memories. Whether you're a truck enthusiast, a parent looking for family fun, or simply interested in what’s happening around town, this episode has something for everyone. Key Topics -Big Truck Day event details and activities -Library programs and summer activities -Community engagement and family fun Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Event Overview 00:34 Details of Big Truck Day at Co-op Place 02:13 Types of Trucks and Equipment on Display 03:08 Additional Activities and Community Involvement 04:27 Feedback and Excitement from Last Year’s Event 05:52 Interaction with Truck Drivers and Safety 06:20 Event Schedule and Special Attractions 07:12 Pedal Tractors and Kids’ Activities 08:00 Library Summer Programs and Resources 09:56 Library’s Role in Community and Family Engagement 11:13 Event Details Recap and Final Remarks Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]

🎙️ Building Momentum: A Plan for Well-Being in Medicine Hat

What does it take to build a healthier, more connected community? In this episode, Shona Dickie joins us to discuss Momentum, the City of Medicine Hat's ambitious community well-being plan. We explore how the plan was developed, why community engagement became the foundation of the process, and how residents, organizations, and local government can work together to address challenges such as housing affordability, mental health, social isolation, and poverty reduction. Shona shares how feedback from more than a thousand residents helped shape the plan's priorities and why flexibility and collaboration are essential to creating lasting positive change. Whether you're interested in community development, public policy, or the future of Medicine Hat, this conversation offers valuable insight into building a stronger, healthier community for everyone. Guest: Shona Dickie, Manager of Community Supports, City of Medicine Hat Memorable Quotes "The plan is broad but adaptable to community needs." "Housing affordability is a key concern for well-being." "Community participation is key to the plan's success." Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:05 The Importance of Well-Being in Community Planning 06:02 Engaging Diverse Voices for Better Outcomes 08:47 Identifying Barriers to Well-Being 12:06 The Role of Government in Community Well-Being 14:59 Pillars of Well-Being and Community Objectives 18:00 Future Steps and Community Involvement LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/shona-dickie/ City of Medicine Hat - https://www.medicinehat.ca/ Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!  Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]

Canada Day in Medicine Hat

What does it take to create one of Medicine Hat’s biggest community celebrations? In this episode, Davy and Yusuf take us behind the scenes of the Canada Day Festival and the growing impact of local events like the skateboard competition. They share how community partnerships, dedicated volunteers, and local sponsors help transform ideas into unforgettable experiences for families, youth, and visitors alike. From cultural showcases and live entertainment to inclusive activities that celebrate diversity, this conversation highlights the power of bringing people together. Discover how Medicine Hat continues to build a stronger, more connected community through events that welcome all ages and backgrounds. Whether you're looking for volunteer opportunities, curious about event planning, or simply love community celebrations, this episode offers an inspiring look at the people and passion behind the festivities. Key Topics -Community engagement and sponsorship -Canada Day Festival activities and cultural diversity -Volunteer opportunities and community involvement Chapters 00:00 Community Spirit and Support 03:05 Canada Day Festival Overview 06:02 Cultural Celebrations and Activities 09:01 Sponsorship and Community Involvement 11:58 Volunteer Opportunities and Engagement 14:55 Canada Day Events and Activities 17:51 Inclusivity and Accessibility 20:59 Reflections on Canada Day and Community Growth Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!  Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/1831615/support]