


Season Six, Episode One – The Animal Safekeeping Program
Season Six of YXE Underground launches with an episode looking at an innovative program that is helping people and animals in Saskatoon. The Animal Safekeeping Program is a partnership between New Hope Dog Rescue and the Saskatchewan SPCA that helps people and animals who are fleeing interpersonal violence find safe homes. Host Eric Anderson speaks with Sandra Archibald and Laura Zmud to learn more about this program and why it is needed in our community.

Season Five, Episode Ten – Elaine Sutherland
Season Five of YXE Underground wraps up with an inspiring conversation with Saskatoon educator, Elaine Sutherland. Elaine is the Director of Treaty Education with the Office of The Treaty Commissioner and is helping people in our community and the province understand the importance of treaties in our lives. Host Eric Anderson discovers why Elaine is so passionate about teaching treaties to people from all walks of life in this episode.

Season Five, Episode Nine – Haven Seto
Haven Seto wears many hats. He oversees the employment programs at the Saskatchewan Intercultural Association which help newcomers and Indigenous people find meaningful employment in Saskatoon. Haven also runs Saskatoon’s Chinese Martial Arts Academy where he provides mentorship to young athletes. This man is a community leader who loves supporting people in need. Haven shares his story with host Eric Anderson in this episode of YXE Underground.

Season Five, Episode Eight – Welcoming Ukrainian Newcomers
It has been just over a year since the first Ukrainian newcomers arrived in Saskatoon and it has been a community effort to welcome them. In this episode of YXE Underground, host Eric Anderson speaks with four people who have been helping Ukrainian newcomers settle in Saskatoon in different ways and discovers why the work means so much to them.

Season Five, Episode Seven – The Child Life Zone
There is a space inside Saskatoon’s Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital where kids can pick up a paintbrush, choose their favourite book, sit down at a piano and even create something using a 3D printer. It’s called the Teammates for Kids Child Life Zone and not only is it bringing a sense of normalcy back to the lives of children but it’s helping them understand the medical challenges they are facing. Host Eric Anderson speaks with Dominique Rust and Kristina Konchak to learn more about the Child Life Zone.

Season Five, Episode Six – Andrew Baenziger
Andrew Baenziger is the Adaptive Technologist for SaskAbilities and is helping people overcome barriers they are facing due to disability or injury through technology. Andrew invites host Eric Anderson into his workshop to share his passion for helping others in need and explain why this is his dream job.

Season Five, Episode Five – Empty Arms
Empty Arms is a nonprofit organization that provides support to individuals and families that experience grief and bereavement due to the loss of a child during pregnancy or up to the age of six. The organization was founded in 2015 by Jasmin Herchak and Briana Koop. They share the motivation for starting Empty Arms with YXE Underground host, Eric Anderson, and why this work means so much to them.

Season Five, Episode Four – Danielle Hoffart
Danielle Hoffart is making a difference in the lives of her students and their families. She is the Aboriginal Student Achievement Coordinator at St. Mary’s Wellness and Education Centre and shares the many ways she and her colleagues are helping students and families meet their food security needs. Danielle gives host Eric Anderson a tour of St. Mary’s and shares her passion for helping others in this episode.

Season Five, Episode Three – Alejandro Romero
What role does public art play in Saskatoon? It’s one of the many questions we ask Alejandro Romero in this episode of YXE Underground. Alejandro is a professional artist and public art consultant with the City of Saskatoon. He takes listeners to four different pieces of public art in Saskatoon and explains why they mean so much to him and our community.

Season Five, Episode Two – Charmaine Panko
Charmaine Panko is a Saskatoon lawyer specializing in collaborative law and mediation. For years, she has been helping couples navigate the divorce process with empathy and compassion and is excited about a change in Saskatchewan’s Divorce Act that places more emphasis on mediation and collaborative law. Charmaine shares her passion for family law and problem solving with host Eric Anderson in this episode of YXE Underground.

Season Five, Episode One – Phillip Harder
Season Five of YXE Underground begins with an episode featuring hydrologist, Phillip Harder. He is doing important work to help our communities and especially farmers on the prairies learn to best manage fresh water resources. Host Eric Anderson speaks with Phillip at one of his research sites southeast of Saskatoon to understand why he is so passionate about water and how he shares his passion with others.

Season Four, Episode Ten – Science Trek Program
In the Season Four finale of YXE Underground, host Eric Anderson introduces listeners to the grade 8 Science Trek program. This unique class offers students from across Saskatoon the opportunity to view the world around them through the lens of science. Discover how Science Trek is making a difference in the lives of students in this episode of YXE Underground.

Season Four, Episode Nine – Charles and Megen Olfert
Accessibility is not so much a passion for Saskatoon architect Charles Olfert but rather a lifestyle. He has his daughter, Megen, to thank for this lifestyle. Charles and Megen have been doing incredible work to make Saskatoon a more accessible community for people with physical and intellectual disabilities. They share their story in this episode of YXE Underground and explain why accessibility should be a bigger priority in Saskatoon.

Season Four, Episode Eight – The Friendship Inn
The Friendship Inn is helping vulnerable people in Saskatoon who are struggling with food security get the supports they need through their free breakfast and lunch programs. The organization serves 1000 free meals every day, 365 days a year. In this episode, YXE Underground host Eric Anderson speaks with members of the Friendship Inn to discover how the organization is able to help so many people in our community.

Season Four, Episode Seven – Nursing During the Pandemic
We are now two years into the Covid-19 pandemic here in Saskatoon and it has been a challenging time for all health care workers. In this episode of YXE Underground, host Eric Anderson tells the story of the past two years through the lens of three Registered Nurses in Saskatoon. Jenna Isley, Lana Mayerle and Jamie Coates are the featured guests and they explain what it has been like caring for others, and themselves, throughout the past two years.

Season Four, Episode Six – The Coronary Artery Rehabilitation Group
We visit the Saskatoon Field House to discover how the Coronary Artery Rehabilitation Group is making a difference in our community in this episode of YXE Underground. Host Eric Anderson speaks with CARG members Dennis Johnson and Al Sather to learn how the non-profit peer support group is helping people of all ages during their recovery from heart surgery.

Season Four, Episode Five – Jill Cowan
In 2015, Jill Cowan and her family suffered a devastating loss when her 16 year-old son, Max, died by suicide. In the wake of her family’s loss, Cowan searched for supports that could help their grieving process but could not find the resources they needed. She co-created the Healing to the Max therapeutic program to help survivors of a loss by suicide and it is making a difference in our community and beyond. Jill shares her story and her hopes for the program with YXE Underground host, Eric Anderson.

Season Four, Episode Four – Yvonne Raymer and Morgan Hackl
Discover how the Saskatoon Fire Department is working to solve the homelessness crisis in this episode of YXE Underground. Assistant Chief Yvonne Raymer and Chief Morgan Hackl speak with host Eric Anderson about the community work the Saskatoon Fire Department is doing and why it means so much to them.

Season Four, Episode Three – Nahanni Olson
Nahanni Olson is an educator, advocate and coordinator of a new University of Saskatchewan mentorship called call BIRM. It stands for Building Intercultural Resilience Mentorship program and pairs high school Indigenous students with university students. Nahanni explains the benefits BIRM and why this program is needed in Saskatoon in this episode of YXE Underground.

Season Four, Episode Two – Katie Suek, Aaron Suek and Restoring 71
Katie and Aaron Suek have created something very special with their Restoring 71 Project. The Project is an excellent example of prairie conservation and the Suek family wants you to visit their 71-acres of prairie grasslands…for free! YXE Underground host Eric Anderson pays a visit to Restoring 71 to learn why Katie and Aaron are so passionate about sharing their backyard.

Season Four, Episode One – Safe and Affordable Housing in Saskatoon
Having a safe place to call home is something most of us take for granted, but for some people in Saskatoon, it is a constant struggle finding a safe and affordable place to call home. In the debut episode of Season Four, host Eric Anderson speaks with Priscilla Johnstone, Jordan Mills and Chelsie Fulton to learn how they are helping Saskatoon’s homeless population find safe and affordable homes.

Season Three – Episode Ten – Mindy MacDonald
Teaching 27 kindergarten students in the best of times is a lot of work. How do you do it when your entire school year is dominated by Covid-19? Mindy Macdonald found a way thanks to a lot of passion, creativity and plenty of hand sanitizer. Mindy teaches at Prince Philip School and shares how she and her students have made a safe and caring community in her classroom in this episode of YXE Underground.

Season Three – Episode Nine – Jordan Stovra
We go grocery shopping in this episode of YXE Underground. Grocery store workers in Saskatoon are essential workers and have been doing incredible work throughout the pandemic. Jordan Stovra is one of those workers. We visit Jordan at the Sobeys where he works to find out what the last year has been like and why he loves coming to work every day.

Season Three – Episode Eight – Ronald McDonald House Saskatoon
The Ronald McDonald House in Saskatoon gives families from across Saskatchewan the supports they need to be with their sick children. The Covid-19 pandemic has made providing those supports a challenge, but as you will hear in this episode of YXE Underground, the team has worked together to ensure families are taken care of in a kind and meaningful way.

Season Three – Episode Seven – Jen Rondeau
Critical Care Paramedic Jen Rondeau takes you to the frontlines of the Covid-19 pandemic in this episode of YXE Underground. Jen shares with host Eric Anderson her experiences of helping those in need throughout the past year, how she handles both praise and skepticism from the public and why staying humble is so important to her job.

Season Three – Episode Six – Samantha Horswill and Colleen McBride
As Saskatoon approaches one year of living with Covid-19, we look at the mental health challenges facing our community as a result of the pandemic. Dr. Samantha Horswill and Colleen McBride join host Eric Anderson to look at the mental health challenges people are facing and what resources are available to support those in need.

Season Three – Episode Five – Scott Dicks
Covid-19 has presented Saskatoon restaurants with numerous challenges. In this episode of YXE Underground, we take you to Odla Restaurant and Market to speak with Chef and Co-Owner, Scott Dicks, and discover how he and his team have learned to embrace change throughout the pandemic.

Season Three – Episode Four – Yulissa Campos
Yulissa Campos is a Saskatoon actor, playwright and theatre company owner who is sharing culturally diverse stories on local stages. Her passion for storytelling is connecting with local and international audiences, and Yulissa is determined to make Saskatoon’s theatre scene more diverse. She sits down with host Eric Anderson to share her passion in this episode of YXE Underground.

Season Three – Episode Three – Andrea Kroeker and Jill Van Kessel
Saskatoon’s VIDO-InterVac is on the frontlines of a global effort to develop a Covid-19 vaccine. Research Technicians Andrea Kroeker and Jill Van Kessel are part of the VIDO-InterVac team working on this vital project. They sit down with host Eric Anderson to share what it’s like to play a role in such an important global initiative and how they deal with the pressure of their job.

Season Three – Episode Two – Natalya Mason
Natalya Mason is making a difference in Saskatoon in so many ways. As the Education and Outreach Coordinator for Saskatoon Sexual Health, she works with different groups within our community in matters of sexual education. Natalya is also a voice for social justice and took part in this past summer’s Black Lives Matter protests in the city. Host Eric Anderson discovers where Natalya’s passion and conviction comes from in this episode of YXE Underground.

Season Three – Episode One – Tara Janzen and Honey Constant
Season Three of YXE Underground begins with a visit to Wanuskewin Heritage Park. Tara Janzen and Honey Constant have worked at the park for years and play key roles in educating our community on indigenous culture and history, as well as issues surrounding Truth and Reconciliation. They also love the 15 bison that call Wanuskewin home. Tara and Honey share their passion for all things Wanuskewin with host, Eric Anderson.

Season Two, Episode Eleven – Candace Gabriel
The Summer Snack Program provides meals to children across Saskatoon during the summer months. Candace Gabriel is the program’s coordinator and understands firsthand the challenges families face when it comes to putting food on the table. Candace explains why the Summer Snack Program is so important to families throughout our city to YXE Underground host, Eric Anderson.

Season Two, Episode Ten – Chris Randall
Saskatoon’s homeless population has been facing numerous challenges since the Covid-19 pandemic arrived in the city. Chris Randall is doing his best to help people find an affordable and safe home. In this episode, Eric speaks with housing advocate Chris Randall about the work he is doing with other agencies and organizations to help homeless people in Saskatoon and why it is so meaningful to him.

Season Two, Episode Nine – Sherbrooke Community Centre
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed all of our lives and that is certainly the case at Sherbrooke Community Centre. The Saskatoon long-term care home is adapting to a new pattern life due to the pandemic, but its residents and staff are coming together to face challenges head on. We visit Sherbrooke Community Centre and discover how the community is working to keep the vulnerable safe and active in these difficult times.

Season Two, Episode Eight – Junofest Venues
It’s Juno week and that means Canada’s biggest music party has arrived in Saskatoon. It’s also a great opportunity for Saskatoon’s music venues, big and small, to show what they can offer to our country’s best artists and bands. In this episode of YXE Underground, we visit three venues (The Broadway Theatre, 9 Mile Legacy Brewery and The Underground Cafe) and discover what it means to their staff to host Junofest concerts. It’s also co-hosted by Saskatoon’s biggest music fan, Troy Weppler.

Season Two, Episode Seven – Todd Brandt and Sarah Berger
It’s been 13 years since Saskatoon hosted the Juno Awards. A lot has changed in the city since 2007, and it took a lot of work by a dedicated team at Tourism Saskatoon to entice the Junos to return to Saskatoon. In this episode, we take you behind the scenes and learn how the Juno Awards ended up back in Saskatoon. Todd Brandt and Sarah Berger of Tourism Saskatoon are the featured guests and they share quite the tale of what it took to win over the Juno committee.

Season Two, Episode Six – Beth Cote
What would you like to see in a new downtown library? It’s a question Beth Cote from the Saskatoon Public Library has been asking a lot in the past few months. Beth is the Director of Public Services for the Saskatoon Public Library and is helping to create a sense of community in all of the city’s library branches. Eric receives a tour of the Frances Morrison Library from Beth and discovers her passion for all things libraries in this episode.

Season Two, Episode Five – Global Gathering Place
Saskatoon’s Global Gathering Place is helping newcomers and refugees settle in our community. Through a host of programs and services, along with passionate volunteers, the Global Gathering Place is making a difference in Saskatoon. Host Eric Anderson speaks with Afton Tolley and Sol Barrones of the Global Gathering Place, as well as newcomers and volunteers, to discovers how the non-profit organization is impacting the lives of so many in our diverse city.

Season Two, Episode Four – Julia Holliday-Scott

Season Two, Episode Three – Bayani Trinidad & Forrest Eaglespeaker
Bayani Trinidad and Forrest Eaglespeaker are two young men in Saskatoon who are making a difference when it comes to Truth and Reconciliation in our community. They work for an organization called Canadian Roots Exchange, a non-profit organization whose goal is to bring indigenous and non-indigenous youth together to make Reconciliation a reality in Canada. Bayani and Forrest are relying on education, as well as their friendship, to help build future leaders in Saskatoon. They share their story with host, Eric Anderson.

Season Two, Episode Two – Matt Ingrouille
Saskatoon is experiencing a crystal meth crisis. Matt Ingrouille is fighting this crisis through education and innovative thinking. Matt is a Constable with the Saskatoon Police Service and the founder of the Say Know non-profit organization. Through Say Know’s website, podcast and speaking engagements, Matt is helping to show our community there are other ways to deal with drug and addiction issues plaguing Saskatoon’s core neighbourhoods.

Season Two, Episode One – Arlie LaRoche
Season Two of YXE Underground launches with a compelling look at Saskatoon area farmer, Arlie LaRoche. Arlie is the owner of Farm One Forty, a holistically managed farm that provides meat and produce for many of Saskatoon’s best independent restaurants. She is also is passionate about educating people where their food comes from. YXE Underground host Eric Anderson visits Farm One Forty to discover how Arlie is bringing the farm to tables throughout Saskatoon.

Episode Thirteen – Constable Derek Chesney
Constable Derek Chesney is a member of the Saskatoon Police Service Culture Relations Unit. His role is to build bridges between the police force and different communities in Saskatoon. Derek sits down with host, Eric Anderson, to discuss the importance of his role as Saskatoon becomes a more diverse city and why growing up on a ranch set him on the path to success.

Episode Twelve, Part Two – Cancer Care in Saskatoon
Part Two of Episode 12 features a conversation with cancer survivor Michael McLachlan and Registered Social Worker and yoga instructor, Colleen McBride. McLachlan was diagnosed in September of 2016 with an aggressive form of cancer that required six months of intensive treatment. He was left cancer free but with a disconnect between his mind and his body. McBride helped to put McLachlan’s pieces together through her yoga class.
This episode is co-hosted by cancer survivor, activist and author, Amy Smith-Morris. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Episode Twelve, Part One – cancer Care in Saskatoon
Episode 12 of YXE Underground introduces you to people who are helping those in Saskatoon either undergoing cancer treatments or are in the post-treatment stages of their battle. Eric is joined by cancer survivor Amy Smith Morris and they introduce you to Kim Swetecki, Jennifer Fisher and Nora Yeates.

Episode Eleven – The Little Tots Program at Autism Services of Saskatoon
The Little Tots program at Autism Services of Saskatoon is providing crucial therapy to young autistic children in the city. Lucas Hart is one of those children. For the past three years, he has worked with therapists, under the loving eyes of his parents, to develop his social and communication skills. This episode explores the Little Tots program by telling Lucas’s story. Eric speaks with Carrie Hart, Lucas’s mom, therapist Desirae Boutin, and Executive Director of Autism Services of Saskatoon, Lynn Latta. It takes a village of caring, empathetic and extremely patient people to help young autistic children. That comes through loud and clear in this episode.

Episode Ten – Erin Wasson
Erin Wasson is a social worker at the University of Saskatchewan’s Western College of Veterinary Medicine. She provides mental health supports to students, faculty and staff, as well as clients from the small and large animal clinics. In this episode, Erin describes the mental health challenges that come with being a veterinarian, how she is able to balance personal and professional life, and why she finds her role at the Vet College so fulfilling.

Season Six, Episode One – The Animal Safekeeping Program
Season Six of YXE Underground launches with an episode looking at an innovative program that is helping people and animals in Saskatoon. The Animal Safekeeping Program is a partnership between New Hope Dog Rescue and the Saskatchewan SPCA that helps people and animals who are fleeing interpersonal violence find safe homes. Host Eric Anderson speaks with Sandra Archibald and Laura Zmud to learn more about this program and why it is needed in our community.

Season Five, Episode Ten – Elaine Sutherland
Season Five of YXE Underground wraps up with an inspiring conversation with Saskatoon educator, Elaine Sutherland. Elaine is the Director of Treaty Education with the Office of The Treaty Commissioner and is helping people in our community and the province understand the importance of treaties in our lives. Host Eric Anderson discovers why Elaine is so passionate about teaching treaties to people from all walks of life in this episode.

Season Five, Episode Nine – Haven Seto
Haven Seto wears many hats. He oversees the employment programs at the Saskatchewan Intercultural Association which help newcomers and Indigenous people find meaningful employment in Saskatoon. Haven also runs Saskatoon’s Chinese Martial Arts Academy where he provides mentorship to young athletes. This man is a community leader who loves supporting people in need. Haven shares his story with host Eric Anderson in this episode of YXE Underground.

Season Five, Episode Eight – Welcoming Ukrainian Newcomers
It has been just over a year since the first Ukrainian newcomers arrived in Saskatoon and it has been a community effort to welcome them. In this episode of YXE Underground, host Eric Anderson speaks with four people who have been helping Ukrainian newcomers settle in Saskatoon in different ways and discovers why the work means so much to them.

Season Five, Episode Seven – The Child Life Zone
There is a space inside Saskatoon’s Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital where kids can pick up a paintbrush, choose their favourite book, sit down at a piano and even create something using a 3D printer. It’s called the Teammates for Kids Child Life Zone and not only is it bringing a sense of normalcy back to the lives of children but it’s helping them understand the medical challenges they are facing. Host Eric Anderson speaks with Dominique Rust and Kristina Konchak to learn more about the Child Life Zone.

Season Five, Episode Six – Andrew Baenziger
Andrew Baenziger is the Adaptive Technologist for SaskAbilities and is helping people overcome barriers they are facing due to disability or injury through technology. Andrew invites host Eric Anderson into his workshop to share his passion for helping others in need and explain why this is his dream job.

Season Five, Episode Five – Empty Arms
Empty Arms is a nonprofit organization that provides support to individuals and families that experience grief and bereavement due to the loss of a child during pregnancy or up to the age of six. The organization was founded in 2015 by Jasmin Herchak and Briana Koop. They share the motivation for starting Empty Arms with YXE Underground host, Eric Anderson, and why this work means so much to them.

Season Five, Episode Four – Danielle Hoffart
Danielle Hoffart is making a difference in the lives of her students and their families. She is the Aboriginal Student Achievement Coordinator at St. Mary’s Wellness and Education Centre and shares the many ways she and her colleagues are helping students and families meet their food security needs. Danielle gives host Eric Anderson a tour of St. Mary’s and shares her passion for helping others in this episode.

Season Five, Episode Three – Alejandro Romero
What role does public art play in Saskatoon? It’s one of the many questions we ask Alejandro Romero in this episode of YXE Underground. Alejandro is a professional artist and public art consultant with the City of Saskatoon. He takes listeners to four different pieces of public art in Saskatoon and explains why they mean so much to him and our community.

Season Five, Episode Two – Charmaine Panko
Charmaine Panko is a Saskatoon lawyer specializing in collaborative law and mediation. For years, she has been helping couples navigate the divorce process with empathy and compassion and is excited about a change in Saskatchewan’s Divorce Act that places more emphasis on mediation and collaborative law. Charmaine shares her passion for family law and problem solving with host Eric Anderson in this episode of YXE Underground.

Season Five, Episode One – Phillip Harder
Season Five of YXE Underground begins with an episode featuring hydrologist, Phillip Harder. He is doing important work to help our communities and especially farmers on the prairies learn to best manage fresh water resources. Host Eric Anderson speaks with Phillip at one of his research sites southeast of Saskatoon to understand why he is so passionate about water and how he shares his passion with others.

Season Four, Episode Ten – Science Trek Program
In the Season Four finale of YXE Underground, host Eric Anderson introduces listeners to the grade 8 Science Trek program. This unique class offers students from across Saskatoon the opportunity to view the world around them through the lens of science. Discover how Science Trek is making a difference in the lives of students in this episode of YXE Underground.

Season Four, Episode Nine – Charles and Megen Olfert
Accessibility is not so much a passion for Saskatoon architect Charles Olfert but rather a lifestyle. He has his daughter, Megen, to thank for this lifestyle. Charles and Megen have been doing incredible work to make Saskatoon a more accessible community for people with physical and intellectual disabilities. They share their story in this episode of YXE Underground and explain why accessibility should be a bigger priority in Saskatoon.

Season Four, Episode Eight – The Friendship Inn
The Friendship Inn is helping vulnerable people in Saskatoon who are struggling with food security get the supports they need through their free breakfast and lunch programs. The organization serves 1000 free meals every day, 365 days a year. In this episode, YXE Underground host Eric Anderson speaks with members of the Friendship Inn to discover how the organization is able to help so many people in our community.

Season Four, Episode Seven – Nursing During the Pandemic
We are now two years into the Covid-19 pandemic here in Saskatoon and it has been a challenging time for all health care workers. In this episode of YXE Underground, host Eric Anderson tells the story of the past two years through the lens of three Registered Nurses in Saskatoon. Jenna Isley, Lana Mayerle and Jamie Coates are the featured guests and they explain what it has been like caring for others, and themselves, throughout the past two years.

Season Four, Episode Six – The Coronary Artery Rehabilitation Group
We visit the Saskatoon Field House to discover how the Coronary Artery Rehabilitation Group is making a difference in our community in this episode of YXE Underground. Host Eric Anderson speaks with CARG members Dennis Johnson and Al Sather to learn how the non-profit peer support group is helping people of all ages during their recovery from heart surgery.

Season Four, Episode Five – Jill Cowan
In 2015, Jill Cowan and her family suffered a devastating loss when her 16 year-old son, Max, died by suicide. In the wake of her family’s loss, Cowan searched for supports that could help their grieving process but could not find the resources they needed. She co-created the Healing to the Max therapeutic program to help survivors of a loss by suicide and it is making a difference in our community and beyond. Jill shares her story and her hopes for the program with YXE Underground host, Eric Anderson.

Season Four, Episode Four – Yvonne Raymer and Morgan Hackl
Discover how the Saskatoon Fire Department is working to solve the homelessness crisis in this episode of YXE Underground. Assistant Chief Yvonne Raymer and Chief Morgan Hackl speak with host Eric Anderson about the community work the Saskatoon Fire Department is doing and why it means so much to them.

Season Four, Episode Three – Nahanni Olson
Nahanni Olson is an educator, advocate and coordinator of a new University of Saskatchewan mentorship called call BIRM. It stands for Building Intercultural Resilience Mentorship program and pairs high school Indigenous students with university students. Nahanni explains the benefits BIRM and why this program is needed in Saskatoon in this episode of YXE Underground.

Season Four, Episode Two – Katie Suek, Aaron Suek and Restoring 71
Katie and Aaron Suek have created something very special with their Restoring 71 Project. The Project is an excellent example of prairie conservation and the Suek family wants you to visit their 71-acres of prairie grasslands…for free! YXE Underground host Eric Anderson pays a visit to Restoring 71 to learn why Katie and Aaron are so passionate about sharing their backyard.

Season Four, Episode One – Safe and Affordable Housing in Saskatoon
Having a safe place to call home is something most of us take for granted, but for some people in Saskatoon, it is a constant struggle finding a safe and affordable place to call home. In the debut episode of Season Four, host Eric Anderson speaks with Priscilla Johnstone, Jordan Mills and Chelsie Fulton to learn how they are helping Saskatoon’s homeless population find safe and affordable homes.

Season Three – Episode Ten – Mindy MacDonald
Teaching 27 kindergarten students in the best of times is a lot of work. How do you do it when your entire school year is dominated by Covid-19? Mindy Macdonald found a way thanks to a lot of passion, creativity and plenty of hand sanitizer. Mindy teaches at Prince Philip School and shares how she and her students have made a safe and caring community in her classroom in this episode of YXE Underground.

Season Three – Episode Nine – Jordan Stovra
We go grocery shopping in this episode of YXE Underground. Grocery store workers in Saskatoon are essential workers and have been doing incredible work throughout the pandemic. Jordan Stovra is one of those workers. We visit Jordan at the Sobeys where he works to find out what the last year has been like and why he loves coming to work every day.

Season Three – Episode Eight – Ronald McDonald House Saskatoon
The Ronald McDonald House in Saskatoon gives families from across Saskatchewan the supports they need to be with their sick children. The Covid-19 pandemic has made providing those supports a challenge, but as you will hear in this episode, the team has worked together to ensure families are taken care of in a kind and meaningful way.

Season Three – Episode Seven – Jen Rondeau
Critical Care Paramedic Jen Rondeau takes you to the frontlines of the Covid-19 pandemic in this episode of YXE Underground. Jen shares with host Eric Anderson her experiences of helping those in need throughout the past year, how she handles both praise and skepticism from the public and why staying humble is so important to her job.

Season Three – Episode Six – Samantha Horswill and Colleen McBride
As Saskatoon approaches one year of living with Covid-19, we look at the mental health challenges facing our community as a result of the pandemic. Dr. Samantha Horswill and Colleen McBride join host Eric Anderson to look at the mental health challenges people are facing and what resources are available to support those in need.

Season Three – Episode Five – Scott Dicks
Covid-19 has presented Saskatoon restaurants with numerous challenges. In this episode of YXE Underground, we take you to Odla Restaurant and Market to speak with Chef and Co-Owner, Scott Dicks, and discover how he and his team have learned to embrace change throughout the pandemic.

Season Three – Episode Four – Yulissa Campos
Yulissa Campos is a Saskatoon actor, playwright and theatre company owner who is sharing culturally diverse stories on local stages. Her passion for storytelling is connecting with local and international audiences, and Yulissa is determined to make Saskatoon’s theatre scene more diverse. She sits down with host Eric Anderson to share her passion in this episode of YXE Underground.

Season Three – Episode Three – Andrea Kroeker and Jill Van Kessel
Saskatoon’s VIDO-InterVac is on the frontlines of a global effort to develop a Covid-19 vaccine. Research Technicians Andrea Kroeker and Jill Van Kessel are part of the VIDO-InterVac team working on this vital project. They sit down with host Eric Anderson to share what it’s like to play a role in such an important global initiative and how they deal with the pressure of their job.

Season Three – Episode Two – Natalya Mason
Natalya Mason is making a difference in Saskatoon in so many ways. As the Education and Outreach Coordinator for Saskatoon Sexual Health, she works with different groups within our community in matters of sexual education. Natalya is also a voice for social justice and took part in this past summer’s Black Lives Matter protests in the city. Host Eric Anderson discovers where Natalya’s passion and conviction comes from in this episode of YXE Underground.

Season Three – Episode One – Tara Janzen and Honey Constant
Season Three of YXE Underground begins with a visit to Wanuskewin Heritage Park. Tara Janzen and Honey Constant have worked at the park for years and play key roles in educating our community on indigenous culture and history, as well as issues surrounding Truth and Reconciliation. They also love the 15 bison that call Wanuskewin home. Tara and Honey share their passion for all things Wanuskewin with host, Eric Anderson.

Season Two, Episode Eleven – Candace Gabriel
The Summer Snack Program provides meals to children across Saskatoon during the summer months. Candace Gabriel is the program’s coordinator and understands firsthand the challenges families face when it comes to putting food on the table. Candace explains why the Summer Snack Program is so important to families throughout our city to YXE Underground host, Eric Anderson.

Season Two, Episode Ten – Chris Randall
Saskatoon’s homeless population has been facing numerous challenges since the Covid-19 pandemic arrived in the city. Chris Randall is doing his best to help people find an affordable and safe home. In this episode, Eric speaks with housing advocate Chris Randall about the work he is doing with other agencies and organizations to help homeless people in Saskatoon and why it is so meaningful to him.

Season Two, Episode Nine – Sherbrooke Community Centre
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed all of our lives and that is certainly the case at Sherbrooke Community Centre. The Saskatoon long-term care home is adapting to a new pattern life due to the pandemic, but its residents and staff are coming together to face challenges head on. We visit Sherbrooke Community Centre and discover how the community is working to keep the vulnerable safe and active in these difficult times.

Season Two, Episode Eight – Junofest Venues
It’s Juno week and that means Canada’s biggest music party has arrived in Saskatoon. It’s also a great opportunity for Saskatoon’s music venues, big and small, to show what they can offer to our country’s best artists and bands. In this episode of YXE Underground, we visit three venues (The Broadway Theatre, 9 Mile Legacy Brewery and The Underground Cafe) and discover what it means to their staff to host Junofest concerts. It’s also co-hosted by Saskatoon’s biggest music fan, Troy Weppler.

Season Two, Episode Seven – Todd Brandt and Sarah Berger
It’s been 13 years since Saskatoon hosted the Juno Awards. A lot has changed in the city since 2007, and it took a lot of work by a dedicated team at Tourism Saskatoon to entice the Junos to return to Saskatoon. In this episode, we take you behind the scenes and learn how the Juno Awards ended up back in Saskatoon. Todd Brandt and Sarah Berger of Tourism Saskatoon are the featured guests and they share quite the tale of what it took to win over the Juno committee.

Season Two, Episode Six – Beth Cote
What would you like to see in a new downtown library? It’s a question Beth Cote from the Saskatoon Public Library has been asking a lot in the past few months. Beth is the Director of Public Services for the Saskatoon Public Library and is helping to create a sense of community in all of the city’s library branches. Eric receives a tour of the Frances Morrison Library from Beth and discovers her passion for all things libraries in this episode.

Season Two, Episode Five – Global Gathering Place
Saskatoon’s Global Gathering Place is helping newcomers and refugees settle in our community. Through a host of programs and services, along with passionate volunteers, the Global Gathering Place is making a difference in Saskatoon. Host Eric Anderson speaks with Afton Tolley and Sol Barrones of the Global Gathering Place, as well as newcomers and volunteers, to discovers how the non-profit organization is impacting the lives of so many in our diverse city.

Season Two, Episode Four – Julia Holliday-Scott

Season Two, Episode Three – Bayani Trinidad & Forrest Eaglespeaker
Bayani Trinidad and Forrest Eaglespeaker are two young men in Saskatoon who are making a difference when it comes to Truth and Reconciliation in our community. They work for an organization called Canadian Roots Exchange, a non-profit organization whose goal is to bring indigenous and non-indigenous youth together to make Reconciliation a reality in Canada. Bayani and Forrest are relying on education, as well as their friendship, to help build future leaders in Saskatoon. They share their story with host, Eric Anderson.

Season Two, Episode Two – Matt Ingrouille
Saskatoon is experiencing a crystal meth crisis. Matt Ingrouille is fighting this crisis through education and innovative thinking. Matt is a Constable with the Saskatoon Police Service and the founder of the Say Know non-profit organization. Through Say Know’s website, podcast and speaking engagements, Matt is helping to show our community there are other ways to deal with drug and addiction issues plaguing Saskatoon’s core neighbourhoods.

Season Two, Episode One – Arlie LaRoche
Season Two of YXE Underground launches with a compelling look at Saskatoon area farmer, Arlie LaRoche. Arlie is the owner of Farm One Forty, a holistically managed farm that provides meat and produce for many of Saskatoon’s best independent restaurants. She is also is passionate about educating people where their food comes from. YXE Underground host Eric Anderson visits Farm One Forty to discover how Arlie is bringing the farm to tables throughout Saskatoon.

Episode Thirteen – Constable Derek Chesney
Constable Derek Chesney is a member of the Saskatoon Police Service Culture Relations Unit. His role is to build bridges between the police force and different communities in Saskatoon. Derek sits down with host, Eric Anderson, to discuss the importance of his role as Saskatoon becomes a more diverse city and why growing up on a ranch set him on the path to success.

Episode Twelve, Part Two – Cancer Care in Saskatoon
Part Two of Episode 12 features a conversation with cancer survivor Michael McLachlan and Registered Social Worker and yoga instructor, Colleen McBride. McLachlan was diagnosed in September of 2016 with an aggressive form of cancer that required six months of intensive treatment. He was left cancer free but with a disconnect between his mind and his body. McBride helped to put McLachlan’s pieces together through her yoga class.
This episode is co-hosted by cancer survivor, activist and author, Amy Smith-Morris. Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast app.

Episode Twelve, Part One – Cancer Care in Saskatoon
Episode 12 of YXE Underground introduces you to people who are helping those in Saskatoon either undergoing cancer treatments or are in the post-treatment stages of their battle. Eric is joined by cancer survivor Amy Smith Morris and they introduce you to Kim Swetecki, Jennifer Fisher and Nora Yeates.

Episode Eleven – The Little Tots Program at Autism Services of Saskatoon
The Little Tots program at Autism Services of Saskatoon is providing crucial therapy to young autistic children in the city. Lucas Hart is one of those children. For the past three years, he has worked with therapists, under the loving eyes of his parents, to develop his social and communication skills. This episode explores the Little Tots program by telling Lucas’s story. Eric speaks with Carrie Hart, Lucas’s mom, therapist Desirae Boutin, and Executive Director of Autism Services of Saskatoon, Lynn Latta. It takes a village of caring, empathetic and extremely patient people to help young autistic children. That comes through loud and clear in this episode.

Episode ten – erin wasson
Erin Wasson is a social worker at the University of Saskatchewan’s Western College of Veterinary Medicine. She provides mental health supports to students, faculty and staff, as well as clients from the small and large animal clinics. In this episode, Erin describes the mental health challenges that come with being a veterinarian, how she is able to balance personal and professional life, and why she finds her role at the Vet College so fulfilling.

Episode Nine – Jessica Fisher
Jessica Fisher from OUTSaskatoon is bringing gender and sexual diversity education to students, teachers and administrators in Saskatoon and across the province. Her presentation focuses on the building blocks of identity, topics such as consent and homophobia, and her story of coming out as pansexual. In this episode, Jessica shares some meaningful moments from her presentations, why the work she does is so important, and opens up about her personal journey to becoming comfortable with her identity.

Episode Nine – Jessica Fisher
Jessica Fisher from OUTSaskatoon is bringing gender and sexual diversity education to students, teachers and administrators in Saskatoon and across the province. Her presentation focuses on the building blocks of identity, topics such as consent and homophobia, and her story of coming out as pansexual. In this episode, Jessica shares some meaningful moments from her presentations, why the work she does is so important, and opens up about her personal journey to becoming comfortable with her identity.

Episode Eight – Saskatoon’s EcoQuest Program – Part Two
Saskatoon’s EcoQuest grade eight class is an outdoor education program that uses nature in place of a traditional classroom setting. In Episode Eight, Part Two, Eric spends a cold December day with EcoQuest students exploring Saskatoon on foot to learn why they love the program and how it’s turning them into leaders.

Episode Eight – Saskatoon’s EcoQuest Program – Part Two
Saskatoon’s EcoQuest grade eight class is an outdoor education program that uses nature in place of a traditional classroom setting. In Episode Eight, Part Two, Eric spends a cold December day with EcoQuest students exploring Saskatoon on foot to learn why they love the program and how it’s turning them into leaders.

Episode Eight – Saskatoon’s EcoQuest Program – Part One
Saskatoon’s EcoQuest Program brings 28 grade 8 students together from across the city and allows them to learn in the natural world. In part one of Episode Eight, Eric speaks with Tyler Rittinger, who has been teaching the EcoQuest program for the past eight years. He also meets some of the students who are embracing this unique opportunity. Part two will follow the students as they weave their way through Saskatoon working on an assignment. It will drop on January 17th.

Episode Eight – Saskatoon’s EcoQuest Program – Part One
Saskatoon’s EcoQuest Program brings 28 grade 8 students together from across the city and allows them to learn in the natural world. In part one of Episode Eight, Eric speaks with Tyler Rittinger, who has been teaching the EcoQuest program for the past eight years. He also meets some of the students who are embracing this unique opportunity. Part two will follow the students as they weave their way through Saskatoon working on an assignment. It will drop on January 17th.

Episode Seven – Scott Dicks
Scott Dicks is a Saskatoon chef, educator and entrepreneur. He is spreading the joy of food and cooking throughout our community by working with local businesses and teaching cooking classes at The Local Kitchen. In this episode, Chef Scotty discusses Saskatoon’s growing culinary scene, why it’s so important for him to help others and how food can bring a community together.

Episode Seven – Scott Dicks
Scott Dicks is a Saskatoon chef, educator and entrepreneur. He is spreading the joy of food and cooking throughout our community by working with local businesses and teaching cooking classes at The Local Kitchen. In this episode, Chef Scotty discusses Saskatoon’s growing culinary scene, why it’s so important for him to help others and how food can bring a community together.

Episode Six – Erin McCormick
Erin McCormick helps children and adults with physical and cognitive challenges through horseback riding therapy. She owns and operates Therapeutic Equilibrium Riding north of Saskatoon. Eric visits Erin at her acreage to learn more about the benefits of this unique type of therapy and where her passion comes from.

Episode Six – Erin McCormick
Erin McCormick helps children and adults with physical and cognitive challenges through horseback riding therapy. She owns and operates Therapeutic Equilibrium Riding north of Saskatoon. Eric visits Erin at her acreage to learn more about the benefits of this unique type of therapy and where her passion comes from.

Episode Five – Kenton Lysak
Kenton Lysak is a Senior Interpreter for Saskatoon’s Meewasin Valley Authority and is passionate about the world around him. He’s also a brand new father. In this episode of YXE Underground, Kenton talks about the MVA’s role in protecting Saskatoon’s natural beauty, especially as the city continues to grow, and how fatherhood has changed his career.

Episode Five – Kenton Lysak
Kenton Lysak is a Senior Interpreter for Saskatoon’s Meewasin Valley Authority and is passionate about the world around him. He’s also a brand new father. In this episode of YXE Underground, Kenton talks about the MVA’s role in protecting Saskatoon’s natural beauty, especially as the city continues to grow, and how fatherhood has changed his career.

Episode Four – Aviva Kohen and DonnaLyn Thorsteinson
Saskatoon continues to gain national and international attention through publications like The New York Times and The Guardian. Aviva Kohen is a major reason why. Eric speaks with Tourism Saskatoon’s Director of Media in Episode Four of YXE Underground. Eric also sits down with DonnaLyn Thorsteinson from SREDA and the Square One program and learns how she helps Saskatoon entrepreneurs reach their goals.

Episode Four – Aviva Kohen and DonnaLyn Thorsteinson
Saskatoon continues to gain national and international attention through publications like The New York Times and The Guardian. Aviva Kohen is a major reason why. Eric speaks with Tourism Saskatoon’s Director of Media in Episode Four of YXE Underground. Eric also sits down with DonnaLyn Thorsteinson from SREDA and the Square One program and learns how she helps Saskatoon entrepreneurs reach their goals.

Episode Three – Kara Broks
Kara Broks is speech pathologist, business owner and all around rock star! Eric visits Kara at the Speech Language Network to learn why she is so passionate about giving people of all ages the ability to communicate.

Episode Three – Kara Broks
Kara Broks is speech pathologist, business owner and all around rock star! Eric visits Kara at the Speech Language Network to learn why she is so passionate about giving people of all ages the ability to communicate.

Episode Two – Sarah Friesen & Jacqueline Lavallee
Sarah Friesen and Jacqueline Lavallee are the featured interviews in Episode 2 of YXE Underground. Both women are helping children, students and families in Saskatoon and have compelling reasons for doing so.

Episode Two – Sarah Friesen & Jacqueline Lavallee
Sarah Friesen and Jacqueline Lavallee are the featured interviews in Episode 2 of YXE Underground. Both women are helping children, students and families in Saskatoon and have compelling reasons for doing so.

Episode One – Mike Fisher
Mike Fisher is the co-creator of The Saskatchewan Entertainment Expo. Eric sits down with Mike at Saskatoon’s Amazing Stories Comic Store to learn how he started The Expo and why it means so much to him.

Episode One – Mike Fisher
Mike Fisher is the co-creator of The Saskatchewan Entertainment Expo. Eric sits down with Mike at Saskatoon’s Amazing Stories Comic Store to learn how he started The Expo and why it means so much to him.