Under the Canopy

Episode 136: A Former MNR Biologist Explains Why Wildlife Counts Are Never Simple

16 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Counting wildlife sounds like a spreadsheet problem until you try doing it over millions of hectares of bush, broken habitat, bad weather, and animals...

Episode 135: Spring Readiness For Gardens And Yards

09 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Ready to turn late-winter restlessness into a real plan for spring? We dig into the choices that matter right now: how to secure fruit trees and berry...

Episode 134: Trail Work, Maple Sap, And Chaga Stories

02 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Spring is waking up the woods, and we’re right there with it—clearing a new footpath at first light, dialling in a wood stove that keeps the house...

Episode 133: Bird Songs, Decoded

23 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

We trace the first hints of spring from fresh snow and maple taps to a deep dive on bird communication with Dr Megan Gall, a sensory ecologist who stu...

Episode 132: Wood Heat, Winter Dogs, And Hard Lessons From Nature

16 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Frost bites, dogs sprint, and the stove hums while we chase warmth, clarity, and good judgment. That’s the energy today as we trade real-world winte...

Episode 131: Inside Earthquakes - Science, Safety, And Canada’s Risk

09 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

When the ground moves, stories surface—about how faults fail, why small quakes ripple across provinces, and how a few seconds of warning can change ...

Episode 130: Emus, Rheas, And The Farm Life

02 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

A six-foot flightless bird doesn’t just change your pastures—it changes your business model. We sit down with an Ontario rancher who started with ...

Episode 129: Alpacas, Fiber, And Winter Woodstoves

26 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Wood heat hums, snowbanks rise, and the small rituals of winter living turn into hard-won wisdom: how to stretch a stack of deadwood, read a stove the...

Episode 128: What Anchors Us When The Weather Turns And Life Shifts

19 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

A bluebird thaw turned blizzard overnight, and that whiplash becomes a guide to living smarter in winter. We start at the wood pile—why ironwood car...

Episode 127: How Controlled Environments Are Rewriting Canada’s Food Map

12 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Winter doesn’t stop a ripe tomato anymore. We sit down with Richard Lee, Executive Director of the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers, to unpack h...

Episode 126: What If Better Bread Isn’t About Gluten, But About Time

05 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

Looking for a better loaf and a calmer life? We start with snow, dogs, and learning to heat a home on wood—choosing species, managing airflow, tamin...

Episode 125: Inside The World Of Tea

29 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

A cup of tea can tell you where it grew, how it was harvested, and even what the weather felt like—and John has spent 43 years learning that languag...

Episode 124: Holiday Houseplants Made Easy

22 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Ever wonder why your poinsettia crashes by New Year’s while your neighbour’s looks flawless into January? We sit down with greenhouse manager Adri...

Episode 123: Glass, Fire, And The Making Of Memory

15 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Ever wondered how a galaxy ends up inside a marble? We kick off with winter wisdom—how to shovel so the plow doesn’t bury your driveway, why racco...

Episode 122: Why Your Dog’s Health Starts With Food, Not Pills

08 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What if great pet care started with fewer defaults and more decisions? We sit down with holistic veterinarian Dr. Sasan Hyatt to rethink parasite cont...

Episode 121: Inside Peterborough’s 200-Year Market

01 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Walk a 200-year-old market with us and meet the people who turn fields, hives, herds, and ovens into food that actually lasts and tastes like home. Th...

Episode 120: Practical Lessons For Outdoor Living

24 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The woods don’t shout their lessons; they whisper them through blisters, bandages, and the warm glow of a stove that finally wins against the cold. ...

Episode 119: How Invasive Species Spread And What You Can Do

10 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

A single “kind” release can rewrite a whole ecosystem. We open with hard‑won lessons from a deep bush chaga trip—gear that saved the day, how ...

Episode 118: A Field Guide To Safe, Smart Foraging

03 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

A cold morning, a quiet road, and a plan that starts before the first bootprint—this is how we turn a chaga hunt into a smooth, sustainable system. ...

Episode 117: Camp Rain, Hot Sauna, Cold Coffee

27 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The roof drums like a metronome while we sort the chaos of a wet northern camp into something that works. We’re counting paper plates, flipping pots...

Episode 116: Field Lessons For Nature, Work, And Wellness

20 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The forest got quiet, the stove finally drew right, and our maps changed overnight. We’re gearing up for a northern chaga harvest and bringing you i...

Episode 115: Herbs, Chaga, and Life Under the Canopy

13 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What if your next good night’s sleep, calmer joints, or steadier digestion starts with a mug and a handful of leaves? We dive under the canopy with ...

Episode 114: Maps, Mushrooms, and Getting Unlost

06 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Ever wanted to move through the woods with real confidence—no glowing screen, no second-guessing, just clear decisions and steady steps? That’s th...

Episode 113: Discovering Nature's Medicinal Wonder

29 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Jerry Ouellette shares his journey from skepticism to obsession with Chaga, a rare medicinal mushroom found on birch trees that has transformed countl...

Episode 112: Solar Solutions for Remote Living

22 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What does it really take to break free from the grid and power your life with solar energy? In this illuminating episode, we're joined by Chris, ...

Episode 111: Off-Grid Living and Log Cabin Repairs: A Summer Update

15 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Jerry Ouellette shares updates from his off-grid cottage work and growing frustrations with corporate veterinary clinics that are changing policies an...

Episode 110: A Master Gardener's Guide to Fall Preparation

08 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Digging deep into the soil of gardening wisdom, this episode unearths precious insights from Master Gardener Bev DeLenardo that will transform how you...

Episode 109: Update with Garett

02 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

A torrential downpour transforms into a months-long nightmare when Garrett's Calgary townhouse floods during roof repairs, leaving him battling p...

Episode 108: Brewing Knowledge - The Global Tea Journey

25 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Step into the aromatic world of tea with John Snell, a 42-year veteran of the global tea industry whose journey spans from apprentice at UK's Lio...

Episode 107: A Journey Through 100 Episodes

19 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Host Jerry Ouellette welcomes Angelo Viola, founder of the Outdoor Journal Radio Network, to mark the 100 episode achievement while giving listeners u...

Episode 106: Exploring the Fascinating World of Butterflies at Cambridge Conservatory

11 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Step into a lush tropical paradise nestled in the heart of southern Ontario as we explore the Cambridge Butterfly Conservatory with naturalist Andalyn...

Episode 105: Wild Parsnip Danger: Nature's Hidden Burn

04 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The hidden dangers lurking along our favorite trails aren't always what you'd expect. In this eye-opening episode, Jerry welcomes Monica  f...

Episode 104: Getting Women In The Outdoors w Brittani and Garrett

28 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

When was the last time you truly disconnected? In a world where screens dominate and demands never cease, finding authentic connection with yourself a...

Episode 103: Rebar, Beams, and Building a Sustainable Future

21 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Ever wondered what it takes to build the foundation for our clean energy future? This episode dives deep into the fascinating world of industrial cons...

Episode 102: The Magic of Birding

14 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The ordinary act of looking up transforms into an extraordinary journey through Doug McRae's eyes. A lifelong birder whose fascination began with...

Episode 101: The Northumberland Land Trust

07 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Doug McRae, board member with the Northumberland Land Trust, shares his passion for protecting natural spaces in an era of rapid development. The Nort...

Episode 100: Environmental Stewardship Meets Provincial Politics

30 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

From protecting vast green spaces to building the Ontario of tomorrow, Environmental Minister Todd McCarthy takes us deep into the world of environmen...

Episode 99: Supporting Local Food Systems Through Farmers Markets

23 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Step into the heart of sustainable living as we journey deep into the forested hills of Halliburton with Lexi, a passionate advocate for local food sy...

Episode 98: The Art of Efficient Wood Burning

16 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The crackling warmth of a wood fire speaks to something primal in us all, but modern wood heating has evolved far beyond the smoky, inefficient firepl...

Episode 97: Once You See It, You Can't Unsee It - Ontario's Battle with Invasive Phragmites

09 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Have you ever noticed those tall, feathery grasses swaying in the wind along roadsides and shorelines? What looks beautiful might actually be one of O...

Episode 96: The Hidden World of Responsible Forest Management

02 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What happens in our forests when no one is watching? The answer matters more than you might think. In this enlightening conversation with Monika Patel...

Episode 95: The Royal Botanical Gardens - Where Science Meets Conservation

26 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Strange wildlife encounters close to home can remind us of our complex relationship with the natural world. Jerry Ouellette opens this episode with a ...

Episode 94: What 200 Million Years of Survival Can Teach Us

19 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

From the edge of extinction to the heart of wetland conservation, Dr. Sue Carstairs is leading a revolution in turtle rescue and rehabilitation at the...

Episode 93: Northern Ontario Faces Rising Waters

12 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The natural world offers powerful reminders of its force as Northern Ontario faces rising floodwaters that threaten roads, homes, and infrastructure. ...

Episode 92: Beyond the Fruiting Body - Why Fungi Matter More Than We Think

05 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Dr. Alfredo Justo, curator of botany and mycology at the New Brunswick Museum, unveils the mysterious world beneath our feet - the vast, largely undoc...

Episode 91: Outdoor Update With Garrett

28 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The world awakens in layers. As winter reluctantly loosens its grip, a fascinating transition period emerges where maple trees release their sweet sap...

Episode 90: The 70-Year Battle to Save Great Lakes Fisheries

21 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The fate of North America's most valuable freshwater system rests in the hands of dedicated scientists working across political boundaries. Greg ...

Episode 89: Exploring How Microorganisms Shape Human Health

14 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Professor James A. Scott takes us on a mind-expanding journey through the invisible world of microorganisms that profoundly shape our health from birt...

Episode 88: What Tree Lichens Tell Us About Our Changing Forests and Landscapes

07 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The forest canopy above us holds secrets most people never notice—miniature ecosystems thriving on tree trunks that tell profound stories about our ...

Episode 87: Birch Bark Magic - Traditional Mi'kmaq Medicine Meets Modern Chemistry

31 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Dr. Matthias Bierenstiel shares how ancient Mi'kmaq knowledge about birch bark medicine combined with modern chemistry is transforming skin care ...

Episode 86: Beyond Hunting - The Environmental Work of Safari Club International

24 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Chris Everett from Safari Club International reveals how hunting organizations contribute to critical wildlife research and conservation efforts acros...

Episode 85: How Government Shapes Our Wilderness

17 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Jerry Ouellette, former Ontario Minister of Natural Resources, and Mike Holland, who held the same position in New Brunswick, reveal how they navigate...

Episode 84: Discover How the Trans-Canada Trail Connects Nature and Community

03 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Join us for an enlightening exploration of Canada’s breathtaking Trans-Canada Trail, spanning an astonishing 29,000 kilometers of interconnected bea...

Episode 83: The Toronto Sportsmen's Show with Mike Blakoe

24 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

What makes the Toronto Sportsman Show such a cherished event among outdoor enthusiasts? Join us as we sit down with Show Manager, Mike Blakoe, who wal...

Episode 82: What Falls From The Sky with Chris Herd

17 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Curious about what happens when meteors collide with our Earth? This episode dives into the wonders of meteorites, from the recent PEI meteorite strik...

Episode 81: Ontario Woodlot Association with Glen Prevost

10 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Our latest episode focuses on the vital role of private forests in environmental stewardship and the sustainable management practices advocated by the...

Episode 80: Exploring the Untamed Beauty of Central Ontario

03 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

Joined by our esteemed guest Pierre, we navigate the rugged beauty of his homeland, sharing tales of wood stoves, encounters with wildlife, and the in...

Episode 79: Talking Mushrooms with Dr. Greg Thorn

27 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

This episode explores the multifaceted world of mushrooms, revealing their ecological, culinary, and medicinal importance. With insights from mycologi...

Episode 78: Rethinking Road De-Icing and Energy Solutions

20 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

A vibrant exploration of the outdoor lifestyle highlights construction challenges in freezing conditions, the medicinal Chaga mushroom, and the pursui...

Episode 77: The Secret Passion For Bees w Dr. Erica Shelley

13 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The episode highlights the crucial role bees play in our ecosystems and the challenges they face. Dr. Shelley shares valuable insights on beekeeping, ...

Episode 76: Ontario Commercial Fisheries' Association

06 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

The episode delves into the intricate tapestry of commercial fishing in Ontario's Great Lakes, emphasizing sustainability, economic impact, and t...

Episode75: Organic Council of Ontario with Dr. Erica Shelley

30 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This episode highlights organic farming while featuring Dr. Erica Shelley from the Organic Council of Ontario, who shares valuable insights on sustain...

Episode 74: Santa's Reindeer w/ Bruce Ranta

23 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Discover the intricate world of caribou conservation with renowned retired biologist Bruce Ranta, as he shares his wealth of knowledge and experience ...

Episode 73: Sustaining Great Lakes Fisheries with Greg McClinchey

16 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

How do you keep a multi-billion dollar fishery thriving while taming invasive species and bolstering local ecosystems? Join us as we unravel the compl...

Episode 72: Organic Farming with Mike Lanigan

09 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Mike Lanigan, a trailblazer in organic farming from Northern Ontario, shares his compelling journey from the forestry world to nurturing the land with...

Episode 71: Rethinking Environmental Policies with James Bountrogiannis

02 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

What if mainstream climate narratives are misleading us? Join us for a thought-provoking episode of Outdoor Journal Radio's Under the Canopy podc...

Episode 70: Conservation Initiatives with Robert Pye from Watersheds Canada

25 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Get ready to explore the wonders of nature and conservation with outdoor enthusiast and special guest Robert Pye from Watersheds Canada. As we reconne...

Episode 69: Bird Migration Mysteries with Natalie Savoie

18 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Ever wonder what it's like to witness the awe-inspiring journey of migratory birds? Join us as we welcome Natalie Savoie from the Canadian Wildli...

Episode 68: The New Disease Killing Our Trees

11 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Unlock the secrets of nature conservation and learn how to protect our ecosystems from the threat of invasive species. Join us as we feature Mackenzie...

Episode 67: Chaga Camp w/ Garrett Ouellette

04 Nov 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Discover the secrets of the wilderness with us, as we bring you an exciting episode packed with stories and insights from the great outdoors. In this ...

Episode 66: Camp Life w/ Garrett Ouellette

28 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Today on Under the Canopy, my son Garrett makes an appearance, providing updates from the wilds of Saskatchewan and British Columbia, as we look forwa...

Episode 65: Growing Mushrooms with Nick Van Halteren

21 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Ever wondered how mushrooms thrive? Our dive into mushroom cultivation uncovers the meticulous balance of art and science behind the process. Mushroom...

Episode 64: Exploring Ancient Worlds Through Fossils

14 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Get ready to embark on a time-traveling adventure with us as we welcome the extraordinary Dr. Bamforth, a leading paleontologist from the Philip J. Cu...

Episode 63: Millbrook South Cavan Public School (Field Recording)

07 Oct 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Take a fascinating stroll with us through the forest as we unravel the secrets of apple and maple trees. Discover how apple trees rely on cross-pollin...

Episode 62: Nature Conservancy Canada (w/ Megan Quinn)

30 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

The episode has a series of engaging discussions on critical conservation topics, such as the funding and processes required for land protection, the ...

Episode 61: Hiking The Bruce Trail

23 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Ready to embark on your own adventure along the Bruce Trail? We’ve got practical advice on navigating this iconic 911-kilometer trail, from the esse...

Episode 60: Harvest Time

16 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Jerry Ouellette, former Ontario Minister of Natural Resources, takes us on an enlightening exploration of medicinal mushrooms like chaga and chicken o...

Episode 59: Invasive Species Giant Hornet with David Dutkiewicz

09 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Join Jerry Ouellette, our esteemed host. He transitioned from politics to becoming an outdoor enthusiast with a keen interest in the medicinal wonders...

Episode 58: Ontario Trails with Patrick Connor

02 Sep 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Join Former Ontario Minister of Natural Resources, Jerry Ouellette, who takes us on his fascinating journey with chaga, a health-boosting fungus. We a...

Episode 57: Plants and Seeds and Garden Readiness

26 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Join me and dive into my personal journey with the medicinal mushroom chaga, hear about my caffeine-free coffee substitute blend that kickstarts my mo...

Episode 56: Health Food Store

19 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Can Western and naturopathic medicine coexist for better health outcomes? Join us on this enlightening episode as we embark on an adventure through th...

Episode 55: Line Marking Forest Harvests with Nate Love

12 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

What makes a quaint northern town a must-visit for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts? Join us as we take you to Atikokan, Ontario, and offer a glimp...

Episode 54: Natural Pet Treats and Dog Food Making

05 Aug 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Can embracing a raw diet truly transform your pet’s health? Get ready to be inspired by Lawrence from Lakefield, Ontario, as he shares his journey c...

Episode 53: Mark Holyoak from Rockey Mountain Elk Foundation

29 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Ever wondered how America's majestic elk made a comeback after facing near extinction? Join us on this captivating episode of Outdoor Journal Rad...

Episode 52: One Year Anniversary w/ Angelo Viola

22 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Unlock the secrets behind the creation and success of the Outdoor Journal Radio Network in this special anniversary episode. Hear firsthand from Jerry...

Episode 51: Firewood And Things You Find In The Woods

15 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Ever wondered how potash mining in Saskatchewan impacts global food production? Learn about the crucial role of potash as a fertilizer, and get an ins...

Episode 50: Legendary Gardener Paul Gellatly

08 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Our guest Paul from Toronto enriches the conversation with his diverse cultural heritage and extensive experience in horticulture. From his roles with...

Episode 49: Learning About Herbs and Herbalism

01 Jul 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Imagine the freedom of treating common ailments with herbs from your own garden. In this episode, we explore the transformative journey into herbalism...

Episode 48 Class Presentation

24 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Here is an episode full of insights from Jerry Ouellette, Ontario's former Minister of Natural Resources, who shares his unexpected passion for t...

Episode 47: Invasive Species

17 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Get a dose of outdoor wisdom from Jerry Ouellette as he shares his passion for natural remedies on the Outdoor Journal Radio's Under the Canopy p...

Episode 46: Pet Chriopractic

10 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

Jerry Ouellette, former Ontario Minister of Natural Resources, who shares his fascinating journey of stumbling upon the medicinal mushroom chaga and h...

Episode 45: Organic Farming

03 Jun 2024

Contributed by Lukas

What can an ancient medicinal mushroom teach us about sustainable living? Join us as Jerry Ouellette, former Ontario Minister of Natural Resources, sh...

Episode 44 Planting Your Own Forest

27 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode of Outdoor Journal Radio's Under The Canopy, follow Jerry Ouellette in all things natural and outdoors. Jerry is a chaga mushroom...

Episode 43: Building Your Own Living Apothecary (w/ Garrette Ouellette)

20 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This week on Outdoor Journal Radio's Under the Canopy podcast, Jerry is joined by his son Garrette to teach you all about one of North America&ap...

Episode 42: Stinging Nettle (w/ Garrett Ouellette)

13 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This week on Outdoor Journal Radio's Under the Canopy podcast, Jerry is joined by his son Garrette to teach us all about where to find and how to...

Episode 41: In the Classroom Fish Hatchery (w/ Josh Ouellette)

06 May 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This week on Outdoor Journal Radio's Under the Canopy podcast, Jerry is joined by his son Josh to discuss the classroom fish hatchery program!

Episode 40: Cooking with Medicinal Herbs and Spices (w/ Chef Antonio Meleca)

29 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This week on Outdoor Journal Radio's Under the Canopy podcast, Jerry is joined by chef to the stars and host of the Eating Wild podcast, Antonio ...

Episode 39: Spruce Sprigs (w/ Garrett Ouellette)

22 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This week on Outdoor Journal Radio's Under the Canopy podcast, Jerry is joined by his son Garrett to talk about all the ways you can utilize spru...

Episode 38: Off Grid Living (w/ Pierre Gagnon)

15 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This week on Outdoor Journal Radio's Under the Canopy podcast, Jerry is joined by Pierre Gagnon, a man who has lived a life off-grid and who has ...

Episode 37: Survivorman's Mentor w/ David Arama

08 Apr 2024

Contributed by Lukas

This week on Outdoor Journal Radio's Under the Canopy podcast, Jerry is back at the Toronto Sportsmen's Show and is joined by survival exper...