Ontar Episodes

Discover Cornwall and SDG Counties

This tourism podcast exploring Stormont, Dundas and Glengarry United Counties and the city of Cornwall is structured as an eight-part audio series designed to map the region through the voices, experiences, and expertise of the people who shape it. Hosted by Todd Lihou, the series brings a community-first perspective to tourism storytelling, connecting listeners with the individuals and organizations driving culture, events, hospitality, and outdoor experiences across the corridor along the St. Lawrence River.Todd Lihou serves as the guide throughout the series, anchoring each conversation with a strong understanding of regional identity and community storytelling. Known for his work highlighting local people, places, and initiatives, he approaches tourism not just as promotion, but as a reflection of culture, heritage, and economic vitality. His interviewing style emphasizes authenticity—drawing out the motivations, challenges, and passion behind the people shaping SDG Counties and Cornwall.The podcast unfolds through eight themed segments, each representing a pillar of the regional tourism ecosystem.The opening segment, Pizza Freak, sets the tone with a personality-driven look at local culinary culture through Stacey Case, reinforcing how food becomes a gateway to community identity and visitor discovery.Beneath the St. Lawrence expands into a four-episode exploration of the river’s influence on history, infrastructure, and storytelling. Featuring voices from Ontario Power Generation, the Lost Villages Museum, Lost Villages Brewery, and visual artist Nathan Goswell, the series positions the river as both backdrop and catalyst for tourism and regional memory.The Behind the Scenes series turns the spotlight on performing arts and cultural venues, with conversations featuring Donnie Bowes (Upper Canada Playhouse), Brittney Waldroff (Aultsville Theatre), Paul Aubin (Seaway Valley Theatre Company), and Amanda Burger (Old Town Hall). These episodes unpack how live performance contributes to destination appeal and community vibrancy.Seasonal tourism takes centre stage in Sounds of Summer, where organizers behind the Glengarry Highland Games, Williamstown Fair, South Mountain Fair, and DevFest discuss how festivals drive visitation, shape identity, and create recurring economic momentum.Food returns as a focal point in Tastebuds, featuring Matt Girgus, Pat Larose, and Justine Viray-Levac. This episode explores the role of culinary experiences in defining a destination and encouraging travellers to explore the region through its flavours.Outdoor recreation anchors Ride On, a three-episode arc highlighting cycling and trail culture with Joe McNamara (Bike Centric), Jean Pierre Tibi (Friends of Summerstown Trails), and Dan Drouin (Cornwall BMX Club). The series demonstrates how grassroots infrastructure and community advocacy translate into meaningful tourism experiences.Hospitality and accommodations are explored through Pillow Talk, featuring Sarah Johnson (A Scottish Cottage), Robert Prowse (Chesley’s Inn), and Katie Forrester (St. Lawrence Parks Commission). These conversations focus on what it takes to welcome visitors and create memorable stays.Finally, The Art of Tradition celebrates makers and creatives shaping the cultural identity of the region, with episodes featuring Niio Perkins, Carrie Hill, and Victoria Ransom. This segment connects craftsmanship, heritage, and contemporary artistic expression to the broader tourism narrative.Across all eight parts, the podcast operates as more than a travel guide. It is a structured storytelling initiative that links economic development, cultural preservation, and visitor engagement. Todd Lihou’s role as host ensures continuity across the series, guiding listeners through a layered portrait of SDG Counties and Cornwall—one built through people, places, and lived experiences.For travellers, the podcast functions as both inspiration and planning companion. For tourism stakeholders, it provides a documented snapshot of the ecosystem supporting visitation. And for the region itself, it becomes an audio record of identity—capturing the voices, traditions, and ambitions that continue to shape its future as a destination.

Episodes
Leave a Review

Contact