Welcome back to What Barrie’s Talking About, your go-to local podcast from Barrie 360 that dives into the stories shaping our city and the people who live here.

This week’s episode is full of impactful local updates—from how tariffs are affecting local businesses to fascinating history at the Leacock Museum. Here’s what we covered:

Tariffs Are Hitting Small Businesses Hard Tariffs have become more than just a headline—they’re starting to hit home. Local businesses in Simcoe County are feeling the pinch, and customers are noticing higher prices. That’s where Kyle Peacock, founder of Peacock Tariff Consultants in Orillia, steps in.

Kyle is helping small and mid-sized businesses not only understand these new tariff rules but actually use them to their advantage. Barrie 360’s Ian Maclennan sat down with Kyle to break it all down—what's happening, why it matters, and what your local business can do about it.

Big Dreams for Barrie’s Arts & Recreation Scene Barrie’s vision for a more vibrant community is coming to life. From a brand-new recreation centre in the south end to a long-anticipated arts and entertainment centre in the downtown core, big things are in the works.

Mayor Alex Nuttall gives us the inside scoop on where these projects stand, what they’ll mean for Barrie families, and how they’ll support a growing city with growing needs.

Support for PTSD—For Those Who Live It and Those Who Love Them Living with PTSD—or loving someone who does—can be overwhelming. This segment brings real help to the table, with resources and advice you won’t find just anywhere.

Whether it’s you, a partner, a family member, or a friend affected by PTSD, this conversation offers empathy, strategies, and hope.

The Secret Role Stephen Leacock Played in Ending Prohibition You might know Stephen Leacock for his wit and storytelling, but did you know he played a role in ending Prohibition in Canada?

The Leacock Museum in Orillia just opened a brand-new exhibit exploring this lesser-known chapter of his life. Experience Development Officer Amanda Marino shares the surprising history behind Leacock’s advocacy, how it shaped Canadian law, and what visitors can expect at the museum this summer.

That’s a wrap on this week’s episode of What Barrie’s Talking About. Big thanks to Ian Maclennan and Matt Latter for making it happen, and to YOU for listening.

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Catch you next week for more local stories worth your time.

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