In this episode, we journey to the Adirondack Coast of New York—where fertile farmlands meet the shores of Lake Champlain—to explore how agritourism is revitalizing rural communities and celebrating local heritage. Our Guest, Kristy Kennedy, VP of Marketing for the North Country Chamber of Commerce, discusses how the region’s farms are blending tradition, innovation, and sustainability to create meaningful visitor experiences.

🍁 This week on the Fact Up Podcast with Jim Bamboulis, we head north to Thunder Bay, Ontario, with Paul Pepe from Thunder Bay Tourism to uncover why fall is the season you need to visit. From bustling markets and cozy food festivals to Indigenous cultural experiences and epic hiking trails, Thunder Bay turns autumn into an unforgettable adventure. Tune in and discover why this city should be at the top of your fall travel list.

From epic hiking trails and paddling adventures on Lake Superior to can’t-miss summer festivals and a thriving culinary scene, Paul Pepe gives us an insider guide to experiencing Thunder Bay to the fullest.

Thunder Bay, Ontario, is a vibrant city nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, known for its stunning natural landscapes, outdoor adventures, and rich cultural heritage. Home to the iconic Sleeping Giant, it’s a top destination for nature lovers. Fun fact: Thunder Bay has more sunshine hours annually than Miami, Florida! Paul Pepe, the manager of Thunder Bay’s tourism board, is dedicated to promoting the city’s unique offerings. He shares his insights as the guest of Episode 54 of the Fact Up podcast with Jim Bamboulis, where they discuss Thunder Bay’s hidden gems.

Isabel Hilgendag – a young explorer whose thirst for knowledge matches her passion for adventure. From conquering the Pacific Crest Trail to immersing herself in solo travels across the globe, Isabel’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. But what sets her apart is her insatiable curiosity, fueled by an extensive academic life.

Amra Durakovic, Head of Communications for Flight Centre Canada, has a broad career spanning over two decades in the communications field. Amra knows Travel, and has cultivated a wealth of industry knowledge and expertise across various global organizations in markets worldwide, including Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Past visitors to Wanuskewin Heritage Park in Saskatoon, Canada have said they’ve felt a great joy after visiting, an inexplicable experience where they could feel, touch and understand where they were, but couldn’t put it into words. Indeed, Andrew McDonald can attest to that having spent 12 years at this 6,400 year old Indigenous meeting place, where ancient discoveries are made weekly, adding to the legend that is Wanuskewin. If ever in the Saskatoon area, this is a must-experience. Please enjoy this episode, as it gives you a taste of what to expect!

Adina Bercowicz is passionate about teaching you everything about Lyme Disease. While she continues to struggle with the disease, her inspiration and determination to spread awareness and teach preventative measures on a national level has helped millions. Listen, take notes, spread the word - if you want more information about Lyme, head to LymeTV.org.

Tracy Ford has been in the hospitality industry for over 20 years, perfecting the art of making Guests feel right at home. As Director of PR at the Chelsea, Canada’s largest hotel, she continues to implement and amplify the little things that make experiencing the Chelsea that much more enjoyable and memorable.

A seasoned journalist, Alex Pope took the reigns at Canadian Geographic in February 2022. Her aim: to continue and build upon a strong tradition of publishing intelligent, poignant, and educational content that teaches and inspires. Alex and her team of producers and writers work to emphasize truth and honesty in a constantly changing, sometimes volatile media landscape.

Neil Hodge talks everything travel, food, culture, and adventure to be had in New Brunswick, easily one of Canada’s most overlooked, yet beautiful provinces. From the highest tides on Earth to Acadian cuisine, it’s about time you visited too.

With travel back in the forefront of millions worldwide, Merren McArthur knows the challenges and triumphs that lay ahead as he leads a team of dedicated travel pros into a new era of Canadian travel. As President + CEO of Lynx Air, an ultra-affordable start-up, she is excited and poised to shake the industry, giving people another needed option for air travel.

Rachel Ferguson represents a city passionate about its culture, people, and soul. As Chief Innovation and Global Diversity Officer @ Visit Philadelphia, she is inspired to share her city’s stories, its heartbeat, and reflect its dedication to ensuring all are welcome and celebrated!

CheapOair recently conducted a survey to gauge public awareness about a new Staycation Tax Credit for residents of Ontario, Canada.The results were surprising. My Guest, Daniel Hayter, stopped by to chat about the survey, its results, and whether residents are motivated to take advantage of it.

Ashley Serrate‘s soul lives in the Florida Keys. Her connection with this piece of paradise goes back decades and it‘s only fitting she be the Media Relations Manager to promote the beauty, culture, and people that make the Florida Keys + Key West such a unique and appealing destination!

Tracie Bertrand and her team are on a mission for good: Spread unity, and respect through responsible travel. Step one, launching the “O’de Piitaanemaan Pledge” (Pronounced Oh-da Pee-tah-na-mawn), an invitation for residents and visitors to promise to respect the land, waterways and communities of the region. The aim, to inspire everyone to greet cultures and traditional teachings with kindness, and feeding the soul with authentic adventures, taking only memories and leaving only footprints behind.

Heather Greenwood Davis is an internationally-renowned, award-winning travel writer, on-air personality and keynote speaker. Her work can be seen in National Geographic, among other reputable publications. Her emphasis about raising global citizens, and insights about family travel, lessons learned because of travel, and what her kids have taught her about travel are invaluable and relatable. Enjoy!

Chris Nowrouzi knew he wanted to fly by the age of 5. His parents, perhaps reluctantly at first, supported his dream. Today, Chris owns, operates and even pilots FlyGTA, an airline based in Toronto that makes everything from commuting for work to weekend getaways easy and accessible.

As an accomplished travel writer, photographer and author, Jenn Smith Nelson is a passionate traveler. But as a Mom, she also believes strongly in responsible + sustainable travel, love and care for the environment and wildlife, with an added focus on gratitude, and happiness.

Stephanie Reid is a life-long Thunder Bay'er. Passionate about her city, she explains why Thunder Bay's makes for an ideal destination for those looking for spacious outdoor adventures and why its food scene is talked about country-wide.Thunder Bay's attractions, indigenous history and delicious Restaurant district are making it a must-visit.