From the Ground Up: The Spruce Meadows Podcast
A behind-the-scenes look at the creation and evolution of Spruce Meadows, told by the people who lived it. Hosted by Ian Allison and featuring Linda Southern-Heathcott and Nancy Southern, this series shares personal stories, pivotal decisions, and the moments that shaped one of the world’s premier show jumping venues.
From the Ground Up: The Spruce Meadows Podcast
The People
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The secret to 50 years isn’t a perfect plan. It’s the people.
In Episode 4 of From the Ground Up, Linda, Nancy and Ian celebrate the culture that shaped Spruce Meadows from the beginning: warmth, hospitality, volunteerism, and relationships deep enough to span 50 years. They share stories from the early days - the sponsors dinners at home, the school tours that created lifelong ambassadors, the stables culture Albert Kley built from the ground up - and the wild, wonderful fun that came with building something from scratch.
And then there’s the landmark moment: Queen Elizabeth II's visit, a sparkling Alberta summer day that became a defining chapter in Spruce Meadows history.
This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt that Spruce Meadows isn’t just a venue; it’s a place you belong.
From the Ground Up: The Spruce Meadows Podcast
Produced by Spruce Meadows Media | © 2025 Spruce Meadows Ltd.
For more, visit www.sprucemeadows.com
or follow us @sprucemeadows on Instagram.
From the Ground Up: The Spruce Meadows Podcast
Produced by Spruce Meadows Media | © 2025 Spruce Meadows Ltd.
For more, visit www.sprucemeadows.com or follow us @sprucemeadows on Instagram.
