Episode 8: French-language schools in Ontario: Where language, identity and community meet
French-language schools in Ontario are more than places where students learn math, science or grammar in French. They’re cultural hubs where young people develop a sense of identity and belonging. In this episode of the Parlez-moi de l’Ontario français podcast, education experts Nathalie Bélanger and Danielle Chatelain explore how French-language education in minority communities has evolved, and why it matters now more than ever.
Spotify
Want to learn more? See the episode summary.
Episode 7: French-language media in Ontario: Navigating disruption in the digital age
In this episode, Jean-Sébastien Marier, professor of communication and co-ordinator of the digital journalism program at uOttawa, and François Carrier, general manager and sales director of the newspaper Le Droit, discuss how the role of traditional media has been transformed. It’s more than just a technological change. It’s reshaping how people understand the world, engage with their communities and participate in civic life.
Spotify
Want to learn more? See the episode summary.
Episode 6: Building a diverse French-speaking future
How is immigration reshaping Ontario’s Francophonie?
In this episode, Professor Luisa Veronis and community leader Alain Dobi explore the essential role of Francophone immigration in sustaining vibrant communities. From integration challenges to cultural diversity and belonging, they show how a more inclusive Francophonie is taking shape today — and why it is key to its future.
Spotify
Want to learn more? See the episode summary.
Episode 5: Writing in French in Ontario
In the early 1970s, something was brewing in French Ontario, during a period of cultural upheaval across French Canada. An identity was emerging.
More than fifty years later, what remains of that momentum? In this episode, two prominent figures in the community discuss this topic with passion: Lucie Hotte, professor emeritus in the Department of French at the University of Ottawa and specialist in Franco-Ontarian literature, and Jean Mohsen Fahmy, Franco-Ontarian writer and novelist of Egyptian origin.
Spotify
Want to know more? See the episode summary.
Episode 4: Transforming Ontario’s Economic Landscape
French-speaking entrepreneurs are increasingly stepping forward as drivers of innovation, resilience, and economic growth.
In this episode, Professor Wadid Lamine, University of Ottawa, specialist in entrepreneurial ecosystems, Yan Plante, CEO of RDÉE Canada and Catherine B. Bachand, CEO of the Société Économique de l’Ontario (SEO) share their perspectives on a reality that may surprise many outside the Francophone world.
Spotify
Want to know more? See the episode summary.
Episode 3: The Franco-Ontarian theatre finds its voice
For Ontario’s French-speaking minority, theatre has always been more than entertainment.
In this episode of Parlez-moi de l’Ontario français, Joël Beddows, director, educator and long-time artistic leader, and Karine Ricard, actor, director and current head of the Théâtre français de Toronto (TFT), explore how Franco-Ontarian theatre has evolved from survival to celebration.
Spotify
Want to know more? See the episode summary.
Episode 2: How the Franco-Ontarian Games built a generation
For many Franco-Ontarian youth, sports weren’t just about medals — they were about finding belonging and building identity.
In this episode, Professor Christine Dallaire (University of Ottawa) and cultural activity organizer Félix Saint-Denis reflect on the creation of the Jeux franco-ontariens, a bold initiative that brought teens together from across the province to compete, collaborate, and celebrate in French. From improvisation to athletics, the Games helped shape a generation proud to speak — and live — in French.
Spotify
Want to know more? See the episode summary.
Episode 1: Quand l’insécurité linguistique devient résilience
Have you ever been reluctant to speak in French, worried that your accent or vocabulary might give away your roots, doubts or mistakes?
In this episode, sociologist Phyllis Dalley and artist Martin Laporte explore linguistic insecurity in French Ontario — and how it can be a source of pride, creativity and resilience.
Spotify
Want to know more? See the episode summary.
