Maple Ridge, B.C., March, 9, 2026 – The City of Maple Ridge is launching Real Ridge, a new municipal podcast designed to take residents behind the headlines with candid conversations between City Staff and external thought-leaders on the issues the community cares about most.
The Real Ridge Podcast pilot will feature authentic, plain-language conversations between Mayor Dan Ruimy, members of council, City staff, community leaders and subject-matter experts on the issues residents said matter most to them in the City’s recent Community Survey findings. The longer audio format allows the City to explore complex topics in more detail than is possible through traditional communications channels.
"We know our residents want to understand how their tax dollars are being spent and the reasons behind the decisions that are shaping our community," said Mayor Dan Ruimy. "The Real Ridge Podcast gives us the time and space to have open, honest conversations and offer a clearer picture of what’s happening at City Hall, and we encourage residents to tune in."
New episodes will air on Mondays 1–2 times monthly beginning on March 9. The Real Ridge Podcast will be available to hear on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, IHeartRadio, Castbox, YouTube and at MapleRidge.ca/RealRidge.
What Listeners Can Expect
Podcast episodes will focus on topics residents told the City mattered to them in the recent Community Survey findings and delivered through conversations and behind-the-scenes storytelling. Some of the initial topics and guests include:
- Community Safety: Feeling vs. Reality - Superintendent Adam Gander, Officer in Charge, Ridge Meadows RCMP
- Tax Mythbusters - Phil Sanderson, Manager of Corporate Strategy and Business Transformation at the City of Maple Ridge
- Why Industrial Lands Matter - Eric Aderneck, Industrial Lands Program Manager at the City of Maple Ridge
- Basic Business Mistakes (and Opportunities) - Kristi Maier, CEO, Ridge Meadows Chamber of Commerce
The podcast is being produced using existing City resources, including the Youth Services podcast studio, and will run as a nine-month pilot. The City will evaluate the program’s impact and determine next steps, including opportunities to expand the series and explore revenue-generating or partnership options.
"We're always looking for better ways to connect with our community and meet people where they are," said Pardeep Purewal, Senior Manager of Corporate Communications and Public Engagement. "People are busy, and this podcast offers a flexible, on-the-go way to hear more open, human conversations about the backstories behind big projects, community priorities and the day-to-day work in their community."
Residents are encouraged to share feedback, ask questions, and suggest future topics by emailing Communications@MapleRidge.ca, through the City’s social media channels, or visiting MapleRidge.ca/RealRidge.
Where to Listen
Residents and businesses can tune in on Mondays and are encouraged to check the City’s website, email newsletter, and social media for new episode announcements. All podcasts will be available to listen on the following channels:
- Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, Audible, IHeartRadio, Castbox, YouTube
- MapleRidge.ca/RealRidge
Stay Engaged and Connected
The City offers a variety of ways for community members to stay informed and get involved. Visit Engage.MapleRidge.ca to explore active projects and sign up for updates. Follow @YourMapleRidge on social media, subscribe to e-newsletters at MapleRidge.ca/StayConnected, and attend Council meetings or community events.
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Media contact:
Pardeep Purewal, Senior Manager Corporate Communications and Public Engagement
T 604 466 4319 C 778 955 4249
E Media@MapleRidge.ca
