As a media veteran with more than 30 years of broadcast journalism experience, Graham Richardson is no stranger to Ottawa’s best-kept secrets.
On Aug. 1, Richardson began his new role as managing director of media and communications at Edelman Global Advisory (EGA), which he calls a “thrilling new chapter in my career,” after departing CTV Ottawa.
But whether anchoring the daily news or managing a communications strategy, there are a few things Richardson always makes time for.
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In this instalment of My Ottawa, Richardson lets us in on his favourite music, his go-to cycling paths, his dreams for Ottawa Senator Brady Tkachuk, and the stylists he trusts with his hair …”Or what’s left of it.”
What area of the city/region do you live in?
We live in the Manor Park area of Ottawa just east of downtown. We have been here since 2006 and absolutely love the neighbourhood.
What type of home do you have (condo, house, etc.)?
We live in a house that was originally built in the 1950s. Like most people in Manor Park, we feel like we are constantly rebuilding it! But we love it.
What type of pet do you have?
We have two dogs. Daisy is our dopey loveable blonde golden retriever. Her older brother reminds everyone he has small-dog-itus … and is the boss … despite being a smaller Havenese.
What type of car do you drive?
We are longtime hockey and dance parents … we drive a Honda Pilot … which now fits dogs, not sweaty athletic gear.
What’s your favourite part of town?
That’s very hard. I would say my favourite part of town is where the rivers meet.
What I love most about Ottawa is how close we are to water and nature at all times. So let’s say the river pathway along the mighty Ottawa, from the spectacular River House all the way to Trim Road along the path. (This is a long walk … by bike, it’s much more doable!)
What is your favourite place to eat in Ottawa?
I’ve always loved the informality of the bar at The Whalesbone on Elgin. We also love the Elmdale Oyster House and Tavern.
What is your favourite activity in Ottawa?
Anything on two wheels, no matter the weather. If you follow me on social media, you know I’m an avid cyclist and, like most, I probably have too many bikes. But of course, that’s impossible.
What’s your favourite hobby?
Cycling.
What’s your favourite local charity or cause?
I’m a past board member at the Ottawa Food Bank. I have always respected the simplicity of what they do: they buy and grow food for people who need it … and then they give it to them.
In the last few years especially, their work has been so important for so many people.
What’s your favourite festival?
Bluesfest because it’s at the height of summer and everyone goes … sometimes even if they’re not sure about the band. Close second is CityFolk, because I love September, and Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit are coming this year!
If you were to play tour guide for a first-time visitor to Ottawa for a day, where would you take them?
I would NOT take them to Parliament, until the most beautiful room in the country reopens, the Parliamentary Library!
I would take them through our path system that is second to none in the country. Up the Rideau River through our amazing neighbourhoods, all the way to Hogs Back Falls … then down the canal into downtown … and a quick drink at Tavern on the Hill.
I really think what makes our city so special is our closeness to water and our ability to feel like you’re not in a city of one million people.
What’s your favourite retailer in Ottawa?
Bushtukah Stittsville. Excellent selection, service and expertise for all levels of cycling.
What’s your favourite live music or entertainment venue?
River stage at Bluesfest. It’s not really a venue full-time … years ago we were blown away by the late Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings on a hot summer night. It was an unforgettable show and place to see live music.
What type of music do you listen to?
There are only two types of music, good and bad. I am a massive Springsteen fan, but I listen to a lot of Americana or alternative country like Wilco, Isbell and Tyler Childers, who was incredible at Bluesfest. I have also been delving into The Band for the last few years after taking some years off and discovering parts of their library I had set aside for too long.
Where do you get your hair cut?
The artists at Fiorella Salon on George Street work their magic on what’s left of it … and I’m forever grateful.
What’s your favourite weekend outing to do with family or friends?
Gatineau Park on two wheels with a trip to Wakefield. We stop for a cold one at the Bluebarn Coffee Roasters then make the turn and head home. Sometimes another stop for lunch at Chelsea Pub or the new Chelsea Brewery on the way. I love living close to Quebec and those incredible communities.
What Ottawa personality, past or present, do you admire?
The incredibly talented Patricia Boal, who continues to lead the crew at CTV Ottawa after my departure. She connects with viewers, has a wicked sense of humour, and leverages decades of experience in media to lead young people in the newsroom. A true leader and great friend.
If you took a staycation in Ottawa, what would you do?
I would book a fancy room at the Chateau Laurier, go down to Zoe’s and order the Admiral (I think it’s called?), a fabulous whiskey mix drink served in a glass box with dry ice spilling out of it. Best in winter. Then I would walk over for some oysters at Whalesbone … and end the night with a concert at the NAC … or, if the nightlife commissioner gets his way, take in a live show at a rooftop terrace in the downtown core.
What’s your favourite business event or conference in Ottawa?
There are many, but my favourite event is the Christmas Cheer Breakfast. It kicks off the holiday season in style every year and helps dozens of charities across the city.
What’s your favourite thing to do in Ottawa to pamper yourself?
That’s hard. I don’t really do that … but I love to cross country ski in winter. That’s pampering to me. Quietly gliding through the woods near P17 in Wakefield (I know it’s technically not Ottawa … but it kind of is).
What local business or attraction do you think is one of Ottawa’s best-kept secrets?
Dominion City’s east end tap room and patio. They were very smart and built a deck overlooking the soccer fields for thirsty parents. Great local brew … especially the Sunsplit in summer.
What’s your favourite season to spend in Ottawa?
I love winter, but Ottawa in peak summer is one of the best places in the country. Hot weather, thousands of lakes and rivers … It is a very special place.
What’s your favourite thing about Ottawa?
How much people love it here … And how most people who live here are fine with it not being Toronto or Montreal. But my favourite thing about Ottawa WILL be Brady Tkachuk on Elgin with a very large silver cup over his head as thousands cheer him on … I hope.
