City of Nanaimo Presents: The Sweet Layered Podcast

In this episode we explore how the City of Nanaimo is addressing and improving accessibility across its civic and recreation facilities. From physical upgrades and barrier-free design to staff training and service delivery, the conversation highlights the steps being taken to ensure residents of all abilities can access programs, spaces and services with confidence.

Our guests are Mike Bryson, Deputy Director of Civic Facilities and Laara Clarkson, Manager of Recreation Services.

Listeners will gain insight into how accessibility is considered in both day-to-day operations and long-term planning, as well as the role staff play in creating positive, inclusive experiences.

Tourism touches nearly every part of Nanaimo’s community, from jobs and small business to arts, culture and events. In this episode, we sit down with Carly Pereboom, CEO of Tourism Nanaimo, to talk about what’s coming up this year.

The conversation explores new initiatives, seasonal highlights and evolving travel trends, as well as how Tourism Nanaimo balances visitor growth with sustainability and community livability. Listeners will also learn how tourism contributes to Nanaimo’s local economy and why showcasing local stories and experiences matters now more than ever.

Whether you’re a resident, business owner or planning a visit, this episode offers insight into how Nanaimo is positioning itself as a welcoming, vibrant destination.

Municipal elections shape the decisions that affect our everyday lives — from roads, parks and public safety to housing and community services. British Columbia’s next general local election takes place on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, and in this episode, we break down what voters and potential candidates need to know.

Joining us is Sheila Gurrie, Director of Legislative Services and Communications, who brings extensive experience overseeing local elections. 

We cover who can vote, how and where to cast a ballot, opportunities to work during an election and what’s involved if you’re thinking about running for local office. Whether you’re voting for the first time or considering a run for council, this episode is your starting point.

In this episode of The Sweet Layered Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Derek Poteryko, a family physician, author and well-known wellness advocate in Nanaimo. We talk about his community-based approach to health, including Walk With a Doc and the Orange Bench initiative, and explore what wellness really means, why simple habits matter and how social connections support physical and mental health. Dr. Poteryko also shares practical tips that listeners can start using today, offering clear and accessible advice from one of Nanaimo’s most engaged health advocates.

In this episode, we sit down with Litzenberger, one of Nanaimo’s Community Safety Officers, to take listeners behind the scenes of one of the City’s most community‑focused frontline roles. CSOs provide uniformed patrols, response to public safety concerns and support residents facing homelessness, mental health challenges and addiction.

Ron shares personal insights into the work from coordinating with police, fire, health and outreach teams, to building relationships with downtown businesses, to helping people find the resources they need. We explore the balance between compassion and compliance, what makes the job both rewarding and demanding and how this team plays a key role in keeping Nanaimo safe, connected and supported.