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Bring Back The Porch

Bring Back The Porch

By: Bernie Leahy Brian Konrad Curtis Nash Lynnette Schneider
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Bring Back The Porch, a podcast about simpler times when folks sat on their porch, and felt a sense of community. Everything was discussed on the porch from life, family, politics, and religion. Hosted by Bernie Leahy, this podcast aims to reignite those conversations, while giving people a chance to share their perspectives.

© 2026 Bring Back The Porch Politics & Government
Episodes
  • Reconnecting With Nature

    Reconnecting With Nature
    Jun 7 2026
    Bring Back The Porch steps out of the studio and in to nature. We recently had the opportunity to visit the Keys To Hope Healing Grounds with Psychologist Deena West. Join us as we explore the innovative approach of Keys to Hope Counselling at Healing Grounds, combining therapy, animal-assisted activities, and nature to promote mental health and wellness. Discover how outdoor therapy, therapy animals, and unique accommodations create a holistic healing experienceChapters00:00 Introduction to Healing Grounds and Keys to Hope Counselling01:15 The Evolution of Keys to Hope: From Therapy Room to Nature03:49 Therapeutic Use of Chickens: Healing Old Wounds05:09 Nature’s Calming Effect on Anxiety and Nervous System06:03 Expanding Healing Grounds: From Therapy to Tourism07:16 Visitor Feedback and Future Plans for Healing Grounds08:26 Star Gazing and Night Sky Tourism in Alberta09:09 Experiencing Wellness: Booking and Activities at Healing Grounds10:49 Exploring the Themed Glamping Domes11:45 Design and Comfort of the Domes13:07 Weather Considerations and Off-Grid Power14:24 Pricing and Themes of the Domes17:21 The Prairie Landscape and Night Sky Experience18:03 The Wheat Grass Dome and Other Themes20:11 The Name 'Healing Grounds' and Its Significance20:58 Flora, Fauna, and Nature Walks at Healing Grounds22:11 Horse Therapy: Groundwork and Building Trust25:52 Closing Remarks and Invitation to Experience Healing GroundsFor many Hatters we live in a fast-paced world and many of us struggle with anxiety and stress. Today, we’ll explore how the Healing Grounds combines nature and animal-assisted therapy to promote mental wellness. By stepping outside the therapy room and into the beauty of the natural world, you can find peace and healing. About the Healing GroundsThe Healing Grounds, established in 2022, is a sanctuary created by Deena West, a registered psychologist, alongside her business partner. Their vision was to take therapy outside the traditional rooms and into spaces that foster healing through nature and animal companionship. With a variety of animals, including horses, goats, and even therapy chickens, the Healing Grounds provides a distinctive approach to mental health support.The Benefits of Nature on Mental HealthSpending time in nature has been shown to calm the nervous system. Being outdoors, whether it’s going for a mindful walk or simply gazing at the expansive sky, can significantly reduce feelings of anxiety. Deena emphasizes the automatic response we have to nature, where even the presence of horses can help regulate our emotions. This connection not only promotes relaxation but also provides a sense of peace that many people miss in their daily lives.Why Animals Matter in TherapyAnimals play a crucial role in the therapeutic process at the Healing Grounds. They offer unconditional support and love, making clients feel accepted without judgment. For instance, Deena shares how clients relate their experiences to the behaviours of animals. A chicken pecking at another might remind someone of a past bullying experience, providing a pathway to healing. This unique interpretation allows clients to process their emotions and experiences in a safe environment.Unique Offerings at the Healing GroundsThe Healing Grounds is not just a therapy centre; it’s also a place for wellness retreats and community gatherings. With accommodations available for overnight stays, visitors can immerse themselves in the healing environment for a weekend. Deena mentions that many visitors have provided positive feedback, appreciating the community support and the tranquil atmosphere. This feedback is invaluable as they continue to develop their services and expand their offerings. ConclusionThe Healing Grounds offers an innovative approach to mental health by merging nature with animal-assisted therapy. This unique retreat provides a space where individuals can disconnect from their daily lives and reconnect with themselves in a nurturing environment. If you’re looking for a calming escape or a transformative experience, the Healing Grounds might just be the perfect destination. Key TopicsOutdoor therapy and its benefitsAnimal-assisted therapy with horses, chickens, and dogsUnique accommodations and retreat experiences at Healing GroundsGuest NameDeena WestSound Bites"Animals offer unconditional love and support.""The domes are insulated for year-round use.""Guests choose their themed dome online."ResourcesKeys to Hope Counselling - https://www.keystohopecounsellingservices.com/Healing Grounds Retreats - https://www.healinggrounds.ca/Tourism Alberta Grant Program - https://industry.travelalberta.com/programs-and-services/apply-for-investmentThank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you! Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch PodcastSupport the show
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    28 mins
  • Progressive Policing With Chief Murphy

    Progressive Policing With Chief Murphy
    Jun 6 2026

    Medicine Hat Police Service is having their annual Open House on Saturday, June 13 from 11AM to 3 PM at MHPS headquarters. Admission is free. The open house includes Building Tours, specialty Unit Displays, Special Guests, a Community BBQ and Chief Gord Earl Leadership Legacy Scholarships Awards. Today on Bring Back The Porch we speak with Police Chief Alan Murphy about the Open House as well as the annual police report for 2025.

    Key topics
    2025 police year-end report
    Community partnerships and youth programs
    Crime trends and statistics
    Progressive policing and technology adoption
    Future plans and community engagement

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction
    03:02 Community Partnerships and Training Initiatives
    05:58 Downtown Patrol and Community Engagement
    08:52 Firearms Transition and Safety Concerns
    12:11 Progressive Policing and Technology Adoption
    14:56 Crime Statistics and Community Challenges
    17:59 Traffic Safety and Enforcement Efforts
    21:07 Fraud and Public Awareness
    24:04 Drug Seizures and Organized Crime
    26:59 Organizational Wellness and Support Programs
    29:06 Looking Ahead: Future Goals and Community Relations

    Discover key insights from the Medicine Hat Police Service's 2025 year-end report, highlighting community partnerships, recruitment efforts, and progressive policing
    strategies.Today on Bring Back The Porch, we dive into the recent 2025 year-end report from the Medicine Hat Police Service, where the Chief of Police shares vital insights about the current state of policing in the community. From recruitment to partnerships with educational institutions, this report sheds light on the effective strategies that are shaping the future of public
    safety.

    Engaging the youth helps in building a foundation of informed citizens who understand the challenges and responsibilities of first responders. This initiative not only creates potential future recruits but also fosters a sense of respect and awareness within the community. The police service is actively recruiting to ensure a steady influx of new ideas and energy, which is essential for adapting to the evolving challenges in law enforcement.

    The report highlights the expansion of units focused on social issues, such as the downtown patrol unit aimed at addressing social disorder in the community. The addition of more officers to this unit has proven beneficial in engaging with local businesses and the unhoused population.

    Progressive policing is a key aspect noted in the report, with the Medicine Hat Police Service adopting modern technologies and practices. The recent transition to newer firearms and the exploration of drone usage for policing are examples of this forward-thinking approach.

    The 2025 year-end report from the Medicine Hat Police Service highlights significant strides in community engagement, recruitment, and progressive policing strategies. These insights not only paint a picture of the current state of policing but also set the stage for future developments in public safety.

    Resources

    Medicine Hat Police Service Annual Report 2025 - https://mhps.ca/uploads/files/Police_AR_2025_Final_Digital_New.pdf

    First Responders Academy at Monsignor McCoy - https://www.mccoyhighschool.ca/programs/first-responder-academy

    Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!

    Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast

    Support the show
    Show More Show Less
    31 mins
  • How Medicine Hat is Shaping Its Future: An Interview with Councillor Chris Hellman

    How Medicine Hat is Shaping Its Future: An Interview with Councillor Chris Hellman
    Jun 6 2026
    Today on Bring Back The Porch newly elected Councillor Chris Hellman shares insights on city projects, budget strategies, community engagement, and upcoming initiatives in Medicine Hat. Discover how local government navigates community concerns, budget constraints, and development plans.The Riverside Corridor Enhancement project is stirring up a lot of conversations, especially about traffic calming measures like bump outs. While intended to slow down drivers, many locals are concerned about how these changes will affect parking and road width. Feedback is pouring in! Some community members want to keep the wide road as is, while others suggest reducing speed limits to enhance safety. It's crucial to engage everyone in this discussion, after all, this is their neighbourhood, and they should have a say in its future. Chapters00:00 Introduction01:00 Community Concerns on Riverside Traffic Calming Measures01:46 Overview of City Budget and Photo Radar Revenue03:21 Public Feedback on Traffic and Budget Issues04:53 Council's Approach to Budget and Tax Rate Adjustments07:01 Formation of Budget Review Committee and Efficiency Goals09:16 Riverside Project: Community Feedback and Adjustments11:52 Traffic Safety, Speed Limits, and Community Engagement13:03 Division Avenue and Third Street Community Comparisons14:02 Emergency Access and Community Safety Concerns15:14 Upcoming Engagement Events and Public Surveys16:23 Urban Chicken Bylaw Pilot Project and Community Impact18:23 Council Dynamics and Collaboration After Six Months19:49 Future City Projects: Recreation, South Side Center, and Strategic Planning22:28 Potential Development of Key Properties and Downtown Revitalization25:28 Reflections on Transition from Candidate to Councillor and Future OutlookWhat Are Traffic Calming Measures?Traffic calming measures are designed to improve safety for all road users, particularly pedestrians and cyclists. These measures can include speed bumps, road narrowing, and bump outs at intersections. The Riverside Project aims to implement several of these strategies along Third Street to enhance safety and encourage multi-use pathways.Why Are These Measures Being Proposed?- Safety Concerns: The primary goal of the Riverside Project is to address safety issues caused by speeding vehicles. By narrowing the road and adding bump outs, the city aims to slow down traffic and create a safer environment for pedestrians.- Community Connectivity: The project includes plans for a multi-use pathway that connects various parts of the city, promoting walking and cycling as viable alternatives to driving.Community Feedback: What Are Residents Saying?The Riverside community has voiced significant concerns regarding the proposed measures. Key issues include:1). Narrowing of the Road - Many residents are worried about how narrowing the road will affect parking and traffic flow. They feel the current width is necessary for both parking and safe navigation.2). Bump Outs - While intended to slow traffic, bump outs can complicate turning for drivers. Feedback indicates that this might lead to frustration and safety issues, especially for larger vehicles.The Role of Community Engagement in Urban PlanningThe city has emphasized the importance of community engagement in shaping the Riverside Project. Councillor Chris Hellman has been actively collecting feedback from residents to ensure that their concerns are addressed. Here’s how community engagement is being prioritized:1). Surveys and Direct Feedback 0- Residents are encouraged to fill out surveys and share their thoughts directly with city officials. This two-way communication helps gather quantitative data to gauge community sentiment.2).Public Meetings - The city plans to hold public meetings, including the presence of emergency services, to discuss safety and traffic issues directly with residents.ConclusionThe Riverside Corridor Enhancement project represents a critical step towards enhancing safety and community connectivity in the city. However, the feedback from residents serves as a reminder that urban planning must be a collaborative effort. As discussions continue, it will be vital for city officials to consider the voices of the community in shaping the final design of the project. To stay updated on this project and others like it, follow local discussions and participate in community engagement opportunities.ResourcesCity of Medicine Hat - Shape Our City Engagement - https://shapeyourcity.medicinehat.ca/Urban Chicken Pilot Program Details - https://www.medicinehat.ca/media/2juchbe1/4168.pdfKeywordsCity Council, Budget Planning, Community Engagement, Riverside Project, Recreation Center, Urban Chicken Bylaw, Local Development, Medicine HatThank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you! Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch PodcastSupport the ...
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    27 mins
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