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.

Spring Gardening Tips & Cortes Museum Hours

On June 6, host Manda Aufochs-Gillespie was joined by gardeners extraordinaire Lucretia, Melanie, Jane, and Erica to talk tips and tricks, spring garden techniques, herbalism, and the museum’s upcoming garden tours. Tune in to hear a dynamic discussion about getting your hands in the dirt!

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Folk U: Education, The Importance of Play & Children’s Development

On April 4, 2025, host Manda Aufochs-Gillespie was joined by Dayna Davis and Christina Macwilliam to chat about education, the importance of play, attachment, and children’s development. This is a fascinating conversation with two incredible Cortesian educators.

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 Emily Bootle’s Presentation at the Cortes DeathCare Collective AGM

 Tune in on April 18th for a special collaborative FolkU episode, featuring Emily Bootle, a funeral director and founder of DeathCare BC. This is a live recording featuring Emily’s presentation at the Cortes DeathCare Collective’s AGM, and it covers body-care, green burials, and the importance of planning ahead.

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The DeathCare Collective visits Folk U

On April 11, 2025, host Manda Aufochs-Gillespie was joined by Yasmina Cartland and Emma Tius to discuss their work with the DeathCare Collective and recent learnings from visiting guest presenter Emily Bootle. This conversation re-imagines end-of-life care through community-driven death education, advocacy, and support.

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