Growing Strathroy-Caradoc Podcast

Episode 1 - Small Business Owners Reveal Why They Succeed Here

In this first episode, we explore what it's like to run a small business in Strathroy-Caradoc by talking to the owners of two local businesses: In a Jam and CommonWealth Financial. Listen to find out how they got started, how they grew their businesses, and what it is about Strathroy-Caradoc that creates the ideal environment for them to thrive.

Episode 2 - Manufacturers Reveal Why They "Absolutely" Recommend This Place

In this episode, we talk to insiders at two of Strathroy-Caradoc's fastest growing manufacturers, Autotube and MetalCor, about why they've chosen to do business here, what's keeping them, and whether they think they can keep up their growth for the long run in this part of southwestern Ontario.

Episode 3 - Two Locals Reveal Why They Love Living in Strathroy-Caradoc

In this episode, we explore what's behind Strathroy-Caradoc's residential growth by talking to two locals with very different experiences of the community. One is a long-time local who grew up here. The other is a newcomer who just arrived last year. Despite their differences, they often have similar things to say. Oh, and these guests aren't just residents. They're also employees of the Municipality of Strathroy-Caradoc, which gives them extra insight into the community. By the end of this episode, there'll be sharing intel that even the locals might not know.

Episode 4 - Is Strathroy-Caradoc Safe?

In this episode, we delve into the safety of Strathroy-Caradoc with insights from Police Chief Mark Campbell and Acting Fire Chief Steve Beasley. They discuss the local police and fire services, their history, current operations, technological advancements, the new fire station coming to Strathroy, and community engagement efforts. This episode highlights the town's commitment to maintaining safety and community wellness, making it an attractive place for residents and businesses.

Episode 5 - Does Strathroy-Caradoc Have Quality Healthcare?

In this episode of the Growing Strathroy-Caradoc podcast, we’re continuing the Health and Safety theme from the last episode. Julie McBrien, the President and CEO of the Middlesex Hospital Alliance, gives us an inside look at Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital, including its impressive range of services, dedicated staff, and efforts to keep the ER not just open but moving as quickly as possible. Julie also shares insights on staff recruitment and retention strategies, the evolution of women’s health at the hospital, and when the new MRI machine will be up and running.

Episode 6 - Why Norbec Chose Strathroy for Its Ontario Expansion?

In this episode of the Growing Strathroy-Caradoc podcast, Jan Lembregts, the President and CEO of Norbec, a leading manufacturer of walk-in coolers and prefabricated insulated metal walls, shares insights on why Norbec chose Strathroy for their newest 156,000 square foot facility. The episode covers the decision-making process, rapid construction timeline, and importance of the Strathroy plant to Norbec's future growth. Additionally, Jan highlights the positive reception from the local community and the successful recruitment of a skilled workforce.

Episode 7 - Building a Skilled Trades Pipeline in Strathroy-Caradoc

The new Strathroy-Caradoc Skilled Trades Hub was created to provide local skills training and address the growing need for skilled tradespeople as the workforce ages. Shawn Bontaine, the business manager of theTechnical Training Group, the hub’s training delivery agent, highlights the benefits for high school students, apprentices, companies, and the local community, as well as the state-of-the-art equipment used and the various programs offered. The episode also covers the importance of building a local pipeline of skilled workers in a growing community like Strathroy-Caradoc.

Episode 8 - The Ultimate Guide to Recreation in Strathroy-Caradoc

Residents of Strathroy-Caradoc have a lot of recreation options to choose from.  In this episode, we do a deep dive on the municipality’s recreation programs, parks, and facilities with Director of Community and Development Services Rob Lilbourne and Manager of Recreation and Culture Paul Lattimore. We chat about what Strathroy-Caradoc delivers to residents, how it collaborates with community groups to deliver even more, and what the municipality is doing on the recreation front to keep up with its growing population.

Episode 9 - The Future of Housing in Strathroy-Caradoc

Strathroy-Caradoc’s population could double in the next 30 years—can this small municipality accommodate them all? 

To find out, we sat down with Jake DeRidder, Strathroy-Caradoc's manager of development and growth services, to talk about how the municipality is encouraging new construction and working to make those units more affordable. By the end of this conversation, you'll know what kinds of housing are coming down the pipeline, where those new builds will be concentrated, and how many units are officially on the books.  If you're in the market to buy a new home in the next few years, this episode is a must listen.