In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, Ryan Donally sits down with Melissa Bishop-Nriagu, one of Canada’s most accomplished middle-distance runners and a proud Windsor-Essex leader.

A graduate of the University of Windsor, Melissa represented Canada at three Olympic Games and made history with a silver medal in the 800 metres at the 2015 World Athletics Championships, becoming the first Canadian woman to medal in the event. She is also a Pan American Games gold medalist and former Canadian record holder.

In this conversation, Melissa reflects on her journey from childhood sports in Windsor-Essex to competing on the world stage. She shares what it takes to train at an elite level, how she handled the pressure of global competition, and the mindset that guided her career. Her motto, “Respect all, fear none,” becomes a powerful theme throughout the episode.

The discussion also explores identity and transition. Melissa speaks candidly about the shift from elite athlete to motherhood, how that changed her perspective, and what it means when your body is your business. She opens up about sponsorships, branding, teamwork, and the unseen realities behind professional athletics.

The episode also includes a fun Windsor-Essex Iconic bracket segment, plus a taste test featuring local favourite TBQ Sauce.

Today, Melissa continues to make an impact through mentorship and her work with Classroom Champions, helping inspire young athletes and students to build confidence, resilience, and leadership skills.

In this episode, you will hear about:

• The journey from Windsor youth sports to the Olympic stage
• Managing pressure while competing at the highest level
• Identity shifts from athlete to mother
• The role sponsorship plays in an athlete’s career
• Mentoring the next generation through Classroom Champions
• A vision for a stronger, more supportive Windsor-Essex by 2040

Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, sport, education, and culture to explore the people shaping Windsor-Essex.

New episodes released weekly.

Episode Chapters

00:00 The sports journey begins
05:47 Introducing Melissa Bishop
06:32 Identity shift from athlete to mother
09:07 Discovering the Olympic dream
10:52 The daily life of an Olympian
12:21 Respect all, fear none mindset
14:47 Competing under pressure
16:44 The power of team
18:37 Windsor-Essex Iconic bracket segment
24:19 Tasting local favourite TBQ Sauce
27:07 Branding and sponsorships in athletics
35:50 Classroom Champions and mentorship
38:58 Learning from failure
42:10 Vision for Windsor-Essex in 2040

In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Matthew Dumouchel and Ryan Donally reflect on some missed opportunities in earlier conversations about Windsor-Essex, especially when it comes to iconic places, food, and cultural touchstones that define the region.

They are joined by Dan MacDonald, a longtime Windsor-Essex radio broadcaster with deep roots in the local media scene. Dan has worked with CHUM Radio, 93.9 The River, and AM800 CKLW, where he hosted The Dan MacDonald Show and became known for thoughtful conversations, community storytelling, and a strong connection to local issues. He now hosts afternoon drive on the relaunched 89X, helping bring the iconic alternative station back to life for a new generation of listeners.

Dan shares his journey into radio, the influence of music on his career, and why authenticity matters when connecting with an audience. The conversation explores the real impact local radio has on small businesses, events, and community momentum, along with the importance of partnerships between Windsor and Detroit.

The episode also revisits the Windsor-Essex Iconic Battle of Champions, diving deeper into iconic food, places, transportation, and cultural favourites that sparked strong opinions and lively discussion. From local establishments to unexpected omissions, this episode reinforces how passionate the community is about what represents Windsor-Essex.

In this episode, you will hear about:

• Why authenticity is essential in broadcasting and leadership
• The immediate impact radio can have on local businesses
• Dan’s transition back to 89X and what it represents for the region
• The role of media in supporting arts, music, and culture
• Missed and debated icons in Windsor-Essex
• A shared vision for Windsor-Essex looking ahead to 2040

Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, arts, media, and culture to explore the stories shaping Windsor-Essex.

New episodes released weekly.

Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction and overview of Windsor-Essex Iconic
01:44 Food and local favourites
03:55 Transportation and mobility in Windsor-Essex
07:19 Introducing Dan MacDonald
11:08 Dan’s journey into radio and media
14:13 Public recognition and community engagement
15:51 Tournament of Champions and iconic local establishments
19:12 Windsor’s iconic establishments
20:22 Cultural icons and local favourites
21:25 Taste of the region featuring Lakeside Pickles
25:44 Transitioning back to 89X
30:45 The power of radio for local businesses
37:31 Vision for Windsor-Essex in 2040

Rising, Connecting, and Creating the Future of Business in Windsor-Essex

In this episode of Beyond 2 Bridges, hosts Ryan Donally and Matthew Dumouchel welcome Dr. Josianne Marsan, Dean of the Odette School of Business at the University of Windsor.

Originally from Montreal, Dr. Marsan shares her journey to Windsor-Essex after more than 15 years at Université Laval, where she held senior leadership roles including Vice Dean of Research and Innovation. With a background that bridges academia and real world practice, beginning her career as a computer programmer analyst, she brings a practical and forward looking perspective to business education.

Throughout the conversation, Dr. Marsan outlines her vision for Odette, captured in the motto “Rise, Connect, Create.” She explains why accreditation matters, how the school ranks among the top 6 percent of business schools globally, and why collaboration between academia and the local business community is essential to developing talent and supporting regional economic growth.

The episode also features Dr. Marsan stepping into the Windsor Essex Iconic Battle of Champions, making key bracket selections that determine who advances to the next round. Whether favourites hold strong or early upsets change the course, listeners will need to tune in to hear how it unfolds.

In this episode, you will hear about:

• What Rise, Connect, Create means for the future of the Odette School of Business
• Why accreditation plays a critical role in attracting students and partners
• How research in business education addresses real world challenges
• The importance of alumni and community engagement
• Leadership challenges and opportunities in higher education
• Why Windsor Essex has all the ingredients for future growth

Beyond 2 Bridges brings together voices from business, education, arts, and leadership to explore the people and ideas shaping Windsor-Essex.

New episodes released weekly.

This Episode’s Sponsor: Daniel J. Pike

This episode of Beyond 2 Bridges is proudly sponsored by Daniel James Pike, a Windsor-Essex based writer, graphic designer, and filmmaker and screenwriter, and the founder of County House Pictures. Daniel focuses on crafting compelling stories across film, design, and creative media.

Learn more about Daniel’s work
https://danieljamespike.ca/

Episode Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Valentine’s Day reflections
05:10 Welcoming Dr. Josianne Marsan
06:30 Background, journey, and leadership vision
14:42 Community engagement and Odette’s role
24:35 Vision for the Odette School of Business
33:55 Challenges and opportunities in leadership
38:30 The future of Windsor-Essex