Better Than Not

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the privilege of a return visit with Barry Keane, the long-time drummer for the iconic Gordon Lightfoot. Our conversation continued from where Episode #102 left off. We again delved into Barry's extensive career in the music business including many of his collaborations with notable artists like Andy Kim and appearances in venues like the legendary Massey Hall. Barry talked more on the challenges of touring and the impact of Gordon Lightfoot on Canadian music. He shared more on passion for baseball too. He also spoke into the pressures of studio recording, what influenced his drumming style, and the value of authenticity in music. Barry ended by emphasizing the importance of staying true to yourself in your creative endeavours. For more on Barry, you can find him at www.thelightfootband.com.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of a return visit from Pastor Joshua Scott. When last we chatted (Episode 39) Joshua was still pastor at our church, so that's where we began, with his transition from single church pastor to overseeing multiple campuses at Northview Community Church. We talked about leadership and how Joshua’s heart is in preaching. He shared his passion for engaging in difficult biblical texts. The episode also touched on the significance of historical theologians. We explored the complexities of faith and the importance of scripture in guiding a community especially amidst modern challenges. Joshua spoke about the significance of understanding the Old Testament and encouraged listeners to explore their faith through scripture. For more on Joshua, you can find him at www.northview.org.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the distinct pleasure to be joined by long-time friend and marketing executive Craig Evans. We talked about the old, the new and a lot of the in between from our rock band days to our respective corporate careers while ruminating on the lessons life teaches only through experience. We touched on advertising, the restaurant business, the music world and so much more, even Tesla’s mark on automotive history. Throughout the conversation, we spoke about our respective creative journeys, the need for gratitude, and the courage to embrace change. Be sure to tune in until the end and don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel Better Than Not.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of talking with Kenneth Emig, a transdisciplinary artist and consultant. Kenneth described his journey from high school bass player to acoustics expert and award-winning artist. He shared insights from his music industry experience, acoustics knowledge, and telecommunications work, to highlight the importance of collaboration across disciplines. Kenneth also talked about his transformative journey in dance that further shaped an understanding of his creative expression. He emphasized the value of experiential learning in manufacturing and the role of time and the environment in artistic expression. For more about or to contact Kenneth, you can find him at www.kennethemig.com, on Instagram or on his podcast BAMM - Building Access in Music Making.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of a return visit with friend, scientist and pilot Blake Steels. We talked a range of topics in this episode from the impact of replacement musicians in iconic bands to the legacy of the Avro Arrow. Blake talked about flying adventures, environmental change, military aviation, and the complexities of space exploration. We talked on the implications of AI, consciousness and the mysteries of ancient civilizations, while emphasizing the importance of critical thinking in today's world more than ever. For more on Blake, you can find him at www.cottages4sale.com.

This is a special episode of Better Than Not, dedicated to remembering those who fought in war and returned and those who lost their lives, both sacrificing for the freedom we enjoy today. For this podcast, Bob Gardham returned to discuss the significance of Remembrance Day. Bob spent much of his career in Veterans Affairs where he helped create a website to honour veterans and organized a number of special anniversary events around the world in remembrance of our soldiers. Bob talked about the emotional impact of walking historical battlefields and the importance of documenting history. Bob also delved into the significance of the aboriginal spiritual journey with indigenous solders. You’ll find more at the Veterans Affairs Remembrance website: www.veterans.gc/en/remembrance.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of a return visit with Whitney Schreck - leadership entrepreneur and consultant. Though we started with her new house, we were quickly into her world of creativity, psychology and leadership both in and out of the workplace and their connection to community and relationships. Whitney shared her insight on creating cohorts for professional growth and emphasized the importance of engaging in activities that bring us joy. She talked about her continuing journey of writing and let us in on a little surprise. To know more about Whitney, you can find her on Instagram at whitisms.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of a return visit with actor, filmmaker and author William C. Cole. Our conversation followed the recent success of his short film “The Mythical Cave.” The film was selected for showing at 2025 Cinefest in Sudbury ON as part of CTV's Best In Shorts program. Bill talked about the joys and struggles of being an actor, filmmaking, and the evolving landscape of film production. Bill spoke about his writing and the struggles he’s encountered in completing his third book. He included his new role as an on set liaison officer. He's also running for the ACTRA Toronto Council. If you’re a member, you know who to cast your vote for. For more on William, you can find him on Facebook and Instagram.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of talking with one of my nephews Isaiah Gardham, an engineer and talented musician. We explored Isaiah's journey into music and how he found his passion in high school. We delved into the intersection of music and engineering and the balance between pursuing a passion and a profession. Isaiah shared his experience of attending Berklee College of Music and the influence of notable bluegrass musicians like Tony Rice and Billy Strings. You’ll learn much about the history of bluegrass music and its resurgence in modern music. Isaiah talked about his upcoming performances and the impact of AI on music. We closed with a surprise. For more on Isaiah, you can find him on Instagram.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of talking with Stephen Nordin, musician, former firefighter and assistant fire chief. Steve talked about his journey from lead singer to fire fighter and his drive to save a University of British Columbia firehall. Steve spoke about mental health, the role firefighters can play in the community, and the intricacies of making real change. We discussed how the values that drive us and the stories that connect us can give us vision to see beyond what is toward what could be. He emphasized the need for community involvement in making change happen. For more on Steve, you can find him on Facebook.