Building On Threads explores the intersection of creativity, community, and lived experience. Hosted by storyteller, artist, and speaker Karrie (Emms) O’Connor, the show features in-depth conversations with individuals who are reshaping their communities, navigating mental health, using the arts to heal, or simply living with extraordinary courage.
Each episode invites listeners into meaningful dialogue—blending vulnerability, insight, and inspiration—to highlight the diverse stories that shape who we are.
Corey Clouthier is the founder and Executive Director of Firebrand Recovery, a North Bay-based organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by addiction and substance use challenges. Passionate about recovery, mental health, and community well-being, Corey works to create accessible pathways to healing while helping reduce the stigma often associated with addiction.
Through Firebrand Recovery, Corey advocates for compassionate, person-centered support and believes that every individual deserves the opportunity to rebuild their life with dignity and hope. His work is rooted in the belief that recovery is possible and that strong communities are built when people come together to support one another through life's most difficult challenges.
12 Jun 2026
Mark WIlson, Season 2, Episode 1
Settle in and join us for a very special milestone. After a season of growth and reflection, we’re returning with a brand new name: Building On Threads (formerly The Universal He-ART).To celebrate this new chapter, we’re joined by our dear friend and champion, Mark Wilson. Mark’s story is one of real grit: from leaving home at 20 to circumnavigating the globe, he knows the power of having someone say, "I believe in you" at just the right moment.That’s exactly what he’s doing now in North Bay with The Money Project. He’s dedicated to backing the incredible talent in Northern Ontario and giving people the fair shot they deserve.Mark’s journey reminds us that we’re never really building alone. Come for the conversation, stay for the inspiration, and help us welcome back the show!
5 Feb 2026
The Universal He-ART Season 1, Episode 5 Jayson John Stewart
Settle in and get ready to be inspired! Tonight at 6 PM, we are so excited to share a brand-new conversation with the wonderful Jayson John Stewart. 💜Jayson is an incredible Art Teacher at Espanola Highschool and the visionary founder of Laps in Judgement Studios. He joins us to share his heart and his journey, reminding us all that creativity and healing truly go hand in hand. 🎨✨At The Universal He-ART, we believe in the power of real, unscripted stories. Jayson’s path of growth and empowerment is such a beautiful example of the bravery within the human spirit. Whether you're commuting, relaxing at home, or need a little mid-week boost, come join our community for this honest and uplifting talk.Grab your favorite drink, find a cozy spot, and have a listen. We’re so glad you’re here with us. 🤍
https://lapsinjudgementstudios.com/ ( https://lapsinjudgementstudios.com/)https://www.facebook.com/LapsInJudgementStudios (https://www.facebook.com/LapsInJudgementStudios)
22 Jan 2026
The Universal He-ART Season 1, Episode 4 Andrew Stuetz
Meet Andrew Stuetz: a Content Coordinator for Village Media, a theatre director, and a die-hard sports fan who knows that healing is an art we all share.In our latest episode, Andrew opens up about balancing self-doubt with determination and how his work with hyper-local media is helping people reconnect with their homes and themselves.If you’ve ever wondered how to turn your passions into your reality, this is the episode for you.Listen now to Season 1, Episode 4! 🎧✨#TheUniversalHeART #Podcast #Community #AndrewStuetz #VillageMedia #LocalStories #ArtsAndCulture
11 Jan 2026
The Universal He-ART Season 1, Episode 3, Merissa Mills
In this episode, host Karrie (Emms) O’Connor sits down with Merissa Mills — a purpose-driven entrepreneur, Registered Social Worker in North Bay, and the creative force behind PhotoMill Photography. Merissa shares her heart for community care, advocacy, and the lived, real moments that shape us. From grassroots work supporting people impacted by homelessness, poverty, housing, and food insecurity, to using photography as a way to adapt after moving north, Merissa brings honesty, compassion, and meaning to everything she does.
Connect with Merissa / PhotoMill Photography:
Feature: https://northbay.spaces.ca/photography/-meet-merissa-mills-evoking-feeling-through-the-lens-residing-in-north-bay-ont-merissa-mills-is-the-creative-force-behind-44437 (https://northbay.spaces.ca/photography/-meet-merissa-mills-evoking-feeling-through-the-lens-residing-in-north-bay-ont-merissa-mills-is-the-creative-force-behind-44437)
Website: https://photomillphotography.ca (https://photomillphotography.ca/)
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/photomillphotography (https://www.instagram.com/photomillphotography)
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/photomillphotography (https://www.facebook.com/photomillphotography)
Handle: @photomillphotography
Email: photomillphotography@gmail.com (mailto:photomillphotography@gmail.com)
18 Dec 2025
Season 1, Episode 2: Artist GiIllian Hebert
Coming up on this episode of The Universal He-ART, we sit down with Gillian Hebert of Studio Gillian for a candid and thoughtful conversation about the creative journey. From early creative roots to creative burnout, and all the challenges in between, Gillian shares openly about the realities of living a creative life — the joy, the pressure, and the moments that shape us along the way. This episode is an honest reflection on creativity, resilience, and finding your way back to what you love.Join me in a candid, unscripted and real conversation with my friend and colleague Gillian Hebert.
4 Dec 2025
Season 1, Episode 1: Brittany McCrea
Join me on the Universal He-ART tonight at 6Pm for our first episode featuring North Bay Psychotherapist Brittany McCrea who lives and works in the North Bay, Ontario area as we spend some time delving into her life, her journey and the things that have shaped her. This is one you do not want to miss!
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