All posts by Manda Aufochs Gillespie

Manda Aufochs Gillespie is a writer. She’s the author of the Green Mama series of books (https://thegreenmama.com/books/) and the publisher of the award-winning website thegreenmama.com. She is also a mother, neighbour, and founder of Folk University (folku.ca) on Cortes Island.
Community

Folk U: Revenue Diversification for Social Profits

On October 3 2025, host Manda Aufochs-Gillespie was joined by Kate Maddigan, Bruen Black, Amy Robertson, and Genevieve Cruz, for a special group discussion on revenue diversification for rural non-profits. Tune in for talk of circular economies, transportation, a brainstorm on creative revenue solutions, and updates from the Cortes Natural Food Co-op, CCEDA, and the Cortes Housing Society.

Continue reading Folk U: Revenue Diversification for Social Profits →
Health

Folk U: Your Brain – on Trauma with special guest Wendy D’Andrea.

1 Comment

Psychologist and scientist, Wendy D’Andrea does research that looks at the impacts of acute trauma (such as a car crash) versus chronic trauma (such as abuse) and what happens with each in the brain and body. D’Andrea is a Professor at the New School and Chief Science Officer at the Trauma Research Foundation 

This episode isn’t always easy to listen to as topics such as abuse, rape, etc., are mentioned but this is a fascinating and empowering look at the new frontier of trauma research and practice. 

Continue reading Folk U: Your Brain – on Trauma with special guest Wendy D’Andrea. →
Arts

Folk U: Johnny Hanuse, Josie Simpson, and Mary Beth Cysewski at the Village Commons

Thanks for joining us on August 22, 2025 for another week of the Village Commons Music Series, a simultaneously live and live-broadcast show, happening on Fridays from 1 – 2:30pm on the new Pavilion stage. 

Guest host Immanuel McKenty was joined by Johnny Hanuse, Josie Simpson, and Mary Beth Cysewski, 3 local musicians who sat together on stage for an in-the-round style performance, swapping songs, stories, and jokes.

Continue reading Folk U: Johnny Hanuse, Josie Simpson, and Mary Beth Cysewski at the Village Commons →
Justice

Folk U: Legal Issues That Affect Cortes

On August 11, 2025, host Manda Aufochs-Gillespie was joined by Nawel Izard, a Campbell River lawyer who cares deeply about community. Tune in for insights from her work, and clear, engaging explanations of legal issues that affect the Cortes community. Full of practical advice and personal reflections, Nawel makes complex topics accessible and relevant for all listeners.

Continue reading Folk U: Legal Issues That Affect Cortes →