In this episode of The Pal’s Podcast, Ricky Liorti sits down with Marlon and Duke from the Extra Gravy podcast for a wide-ranging conversation about podcasting, creativity, comedy, and building something that lasts.

Dani is off handling exams, so Ricky takes the lead as they dive deep into what it really means to be consistent in podcasting. Marlon shares how discovering podcasts nearly a decade ago inspired him to start Extra Gravy back in 2017, long before Toronto had a real podcast scene. Duke opens up about his own podcast journey, how he balances multiple shows, and what changes once you step behind the mic yourself.

The conversation covers everything from favorite podcast routines and unforgettable episodes to wild stories involving mentalists, hypnotists, and moments that made everyone cry laughing. They also talk candidly about why conversational podcasts work better than rigid interviews, how over-preparing can actually kill great conversations, and why chemistry and excitement matter more than clout.

They don’t shy away from the business side either. From the challenges of monetizing podcasts to why brands are often hesitant to sponsor long-form conversations, this episode pulls back the curtain on the realities creators face today.

This is an honest, funny, behind-the-scenes look at podcasting culture, Toronto creativity, and why the best shows feel like you’re hanging out with friends.

🎶 Music by @distant.matter

📲 Follow us on Instagram @thepalspodcast | @yourpalrick | @danigalarneau

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https://www.instagram.com/apacircuit/

https://www.instagram.com/northernlightspickleball/

https://www.instagram.com/grandviewpickleballclub/

This week on the Pal’s Podcast, Ricky sits down with Michael Chao, CEO and Founder of the newly rebranded APA Canadian Circuit, General Manager of the Northern Lights in the Canadian National Pickleball League, and part owner of Grandview Pickleball Club in Newmarket.

The two dive deep into all things pickleball. Michael shares his path into the sport, how the APA originally started, and what the rebrand means for the future of competitive pickleball in Canada. Ricky and Michael also get into some friendly league banter, especially with both of them owning teams in the CNPL, breaking down the past season and what’s coming next.

They also talk about the upcoming CNPL draft combine, what teams are looking for, and how the Toronto United tournament hosted by APA fits into the bigger picture of growing the game.

If you’re into pickleball, whether as a player, fan, or someone curious about the business side of the sport, this episode is for you.

What happens when two reality-TV obsessed best friends (and full-on parents) try to keep up with drama, diapers, and deadlines at the same time? Join us with Ariana & Renee from Friend Of as we chat Vanderpump Rules, Summerhouse, dream crossovers, parenting vs podcasts (seriously, WHERE’S THE TIME?) and the reality-star moments that still make us gasp.

Follow Ariana & Renee

https://www.instagram.com/friendofpodcast/?hl=en

https://www.instagram.com/thereneereina/?hl=en

https://www.instagram.com/arianajoychristie/?hl=en