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Maple Popcorn Podcast Launches Season 3, Bringing Exclusive Stories from Canada’s Film Scene

27 June 2024

Featuring episodes with Atom Egoyan, Cody Lightning, Kari Skogland and more

Telefilm Canada is proud to announce the launch of the third season of the Maple Popcorn Podcast, produced by The Brand is Female, promising an exhilarating exploration of Canada’s entertainment industry. Hosted by entertainment journalist Marriska Fernandes, the podcast continues its tradition of delivering exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes revelations, and unforgettable moments with both established icons and emerging talents in Canadian and Indigenous cinema. 

This season, listeners can expect episodes with acclaimed guests such as award-winning filmmaker Atom Egoyan, known for his notable works like “Exotica”, “The Sweet Hereafter,” and “Chloe”; Cree actor and filmmaker Cody Lightning, whose directorial debut “Hey, Viktor!” has garnered critical acclaim; Kari Skogland, a celebrated Canadian filmmaker known for her contributions to “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier” and “The Handmaid’s Tale”; along with other iconic Canadians.  

Julie Roy, Executive Director and CEO of Telefilm Canada, echoes the importance of amplifying Canadian and Indigenous voices in the audiovisual sector: “As the popularity of podcasts continues to soar, Maple Popcorn provides a platform to illuminate the extraordinary contributions of our talent on the global stage. Telefilm’s partnership with The Brand is Female allows us to carry out our mission of elevating our nation’s storytellers and fostering deeper connections between audiences and our homegrown talent.” 

Since its inception, Maple Popcorn has garnered acclaim for its dedication to showcasing the diverse voices of Canadian and Indigenous actors, writers, and producers, spanning across a variety of genres. With a growing audience, the podcast continues to be a reference for cultural celebration and industry insight. 

Commenting on the significance of Maple Popcorn, Eva Hartling, President and Founder of The Brand is Female, states: “The Canadian film industry is experiencing remarkable levels of production, and Maple Popcorn serves as a tribute to the incredible talents that drive Hollywood North forward. Through this podcast, we aim to shine a spotlight on the rich tapestry of Canadian and Indigenous storytelling and celebrate the voices that make the industry truly special.” 

Reflecting on the launch of Season 3, Marriska Fernandes shares her excitement: “I am thrilled to invite listeners to join me for another exciting season of Maple Popcorn. This time around, we’re going bigger and bolder, bringing you closer to the stars and the stories that shape Canada’s entertainment landscape.” 

With its dynamic lineup of guests, Maple Popcorn Season 3 promises to be an unforgettable journey through the heart and soul of Canadian entertainment. Don’t miss out on the excitement – tune in and subscribe to Maple Popcorn on Spotify or Apple Podcasts. Full interviews will also be available on Telefilm Canada’s YouTube channel.

For media inquiries, please contact: 

Joyce Richards 
Advisor, Public Relations 
Telefilm Canada
Joyce.Richards@telefilm.ca 

About Telefilm Canada:    

As a Partner of Choice, Telefilm Canada is a Crown corporation dedicated to the success of Canada’s audiovisual industry, fostering access and excellence by delivering programs that support cultural resonance and audience engagement. With a lens of equity, inclusivity and sustainability, Telefilm bolsters dynamic companies and a range of creative talent at home and around the world. Telefilm also makes recommendations regarding the certification of audiovisual coproduction treaties to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, and administers the programs of the Canada Media Fund. Launched in 2012, the Talent Fund raises private donations which principally support emerging talent. Visit telefilm.ca and follow us on X, on Facebook, on Instagram and on LinkedIn.

About The Brand is Female: 

We’re a strategic consulting agency and media platform working with innovative leaders to highlight, enable and accelerate equitable and inclusive leadership. The Brand is Female transforms workplace culture by fostering inclusion and equity, thereby granting women and other underrepresented leaders access to new opportunities. Our services span strategic communications, thought leadership, media production and DEI consulting, and curated content to support initiatives dedicated to purpose and impact. We also host in-person and virtual events and workshops to help women and other underrepresented leaders and entrepreneurs succeed. Visit thebrandisfemale.com.