Better Than Not

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had a return visit from friend, entrepreneur and agent Max Tremblay, only this time in video. Max is the reason Better Than Not exists. And that’s how we started the episode continuing our most synchronistic friendship. Max spoke candidly about his personal journey, his spiritual awakening and the potential of podcasting as a tool for social change that in essence Better Than Not echoes. Max shared his profound journey through addiction, recovery, and the importance of his surrendering to a higher power. He emphasized the necessity of faith and prayer in finding purpose and meaning in life. He reflected on the importance of helping others and the transformative power of connection. For more on Max, you can find him on Instagram.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of a return visit with author and entrepreneur Scott Walker. We explored the themes of creativity, identity, and happiness. Scott shared his journey of navigating writer's block and redefining his world beyond being a writer. We discussed the science of happiness, the importance of community, and the impact of rapid technological change on emotional well-being. He talked about the importance of community, the impact of loneliness (particularly among men) and the value of reaching out to others. For more on Scott, find him at www.scottiswriting.com.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the privilege to speak with internationally renown cellist Roman Borys, Artistic and Executive Director of Music Toronto and co-founder of the Gryphon Trio. This is the second episode where I talk with artists who will part of this year’s Valley Concert Society's season at the Matsqui Centennial Auditorium in Abbotsford. The Gryphon Trio will perform on Friday November 14th at 7:30pm. In addition to Roman, the Gryphon Trio is Annalee Patipatanakoon (violin) and Jamie Parker (piano). In our conversation, Roman reflected on the Gryphon Trio's 33 years together, the dynamics of chamber music, and the incredible talent he has had occasion to work with throughout his career. He also described the program they will perform at Matsqui. Roman shared insight into the challenges faced by classical musicians and the unique experience of being part of a trio. For more on the Gryphon Trio, you can find them at www.gryphontrio.com. For tickets to their performance in Abbotsford: www.valleyconcertsociety.com.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure to again speak with (this time in video) Dr. Sophie Redlin, a medical doctor, expedition doctor and filmmaker in the UK. We spoke about the complexities of emotional expression in high-stake situations found in professions like medicine or during extreme expeditions. Dr. Redlin explored themes of moral injury, the importance of community in healing, and the intersection of pain and joy. Sophie also shared her journey into filmmaking and its influence on her understanding of human connection and emotional intelligence. The discussion emphasized the need for open conversations about difficult emotions and the hidden curriculum of silence in medicine. Sophie is a Churchill Fellow. You can learn more about her and her work at www.moralinjurypartnership.com/who-we-are.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure to speak with investigative journalist Sam Cooper of The Bureau. Sam took me through his journey into journalism and the alarming realities of money laundering and corruption in Canada. He explained the 'Vancouver model' of money laundering, its connection to the fentanyl crisis, and how it impacts the housing market. He emphasized the need for stronger laws and public awareness to combat these issues, urging citizens to educate themselves and hold their government accountable. The conversation highlighted the importance of independent journalism in uncovering the truth behind these pressing societal problems. Be sure to pick up his book Wilful Blindness and follow his work at www.thebureau.news.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the privilege of speaking with Pastor Jesse Schellenberg of Northview Community Church’s Mission Campus. Jesse talked about his journey to become a pastor, the true essence of Christianity, and the importance of humor in teaching. We delved into the nature of existence, the relationship between faith and science, and the vital role of the church in society. Jesse emphasized the significance of discipleship while sharing personal anecdotes and insights on the impact of teaching. Jesse concluded with encouragement for listeners to find community and support in their faith journey. For more on Pastor Jesse, you can find him at www.northview.org.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I was joined by returning guest Siavash Kianpour--who now sells technology. Our conversation centred around the ever evolving world of technology and selling it. We discussed his transition from working with technology to selling it. We covered self-driving vehicles to drones to how advances in automation impact the world we live in. We explored how technology and AI may play an essential role in enhancing human connection. The episode emphasized the need for practical approaches to emerging technologies and the potential of a more interconnected future. The conversation will give you faith that our future is in good hands.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I was joined by Bob Gardham, my uncle. This was a special episode for me in that I got chat with my father’s brother who is 16 years his junior (he’s closer to my age than my father’s). Our heartfelt conversation spanned decades of family history, personal anecdotes, and reflections on societal changes. Bob spoke about his early years of growing up in Prince Edward Island to his impactful career in Veterans Affairs. We dove into the many connections that shape our lives along with themes of legacy, technology, and the enduring bonds of family. Truly a touching episode through time, filled with the warmth of fond memories.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I was joined by Kiri Jane Erb, Director of Theology at Soul Edge Ministries, and a mom, teacher, speaker and writer. We dove right into Kiri's journey from a secular upbringing to a life dedicated to theological exploration and leadership. She explained how her experiences across continents have shaped her understanding of faith's role in addressing existential questions and fostering resilient communities. We also talked about her forthcoming book Love, War and the Mess In Between. To learn more about Kiri, you can find her at www.souledge.org.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I was joined by author and speaker Peter Burrell. We talked about his two books “Free of Judgment” and “Marriage by the Book,” exploring the themes of marriage, spirituality, and personal transformation. Peter explained the inspiration behind writing the books and shared insights on how changes in perspective can lead to a deeper understanding and harmony in relationships. Peter's ideas offer a fresh take on living a life aligned with spiritual truths. A few surprises did pop up during our conversation too. For more on Peter, you can find him at [email protected].