What started as a passion project years ago has now blossomed into a podcast that connects people, welcomes them to Saskatoon, and celebrates the hard work of residents that often goes unrecognized. Last season, YXE Underground reached 50,000 downloads/streams. That’s an extraordinary number for a local podcast. Now, heading into Season 6, YXE Underground host/creator Eric Anderson promises to build on that legacy with passionate stories and innovative collaborations that will push the boundaries of podcasting.

“Our listeners have been asking for more content which is really exciting for me,” says Anderson. “Along with regular monthly episodes, mental health expert Lisa Greig will join me for Walking with Lisa. She’s passionate about helping others deal with life’s daily challenges through these bonus episodes.”

Host Eric Anderson introduces the audience to the movers and shakers in Saskatoon with a fresh season of YXE Underground.                (Molly Schikosky)

Season 6 will launch with a look at the Animal Safekeeping Program which provides a safe place for pets of people fleeing from domestic violence. The season will also include a look at the team behind Saskatoon’s Future Artistic Minds as well as a look at the Adult Literacy Program from Foundations Learning and Skills.

“It’s an honour to find these people and share their stories with the public.”

“Saskatoon is full of passionate leaders who want to see their communities thrive,” says Anderson. “It’s an honour to find these people and share their stories with the public. I think the more we know about our community, the more invested we all feel in making it as good as it can be.”

Laura Zmud and Sandra Archibald have helped create a safe space for pets of people escaping domestic violence.  (Rona Andres)

This season YXE Underground features a collaboration with artist Jaymie Raefta, adding a little magic to each episode with animations featuring podcast guests. As with each season, YXE Underground is giving back with the sale of merchandise. The first run of pet bandanas sold out in days, and more are coming. A new YXE Underground t-shirt is also up for sale. All these proceeds are going directly to the Animal Safekeeping Program.

“When our audience buys YXE Underground merchandise this year, I want them to know they are supporting others.”

“This program is doing valuable work to keep animals and people safe as they try to flee interpersonal violence,” Anderson explains. “Saskatchewan has the highest rate of domestic violence in the country and animals are not immune to this reality. The podcast will show the important work this program is doing here. When our audience buys YXE Underground merchandise this year, I want them to know they are supporting others.”

The new season of YXE Underground is a celebration of our community and listeners can join in for the premiere September 13th on all podcasting platforms.

Sam sporting the latest YXE Underground swag raising money for the ASK program.        (YXE Underground)

For more information about the YXE Underground podcast and for past episodes, here’s the link.

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Host/creator Eric Anderson chats with CTV News at Noon host Jeff Rogstad.