Better Than Not

In this episode of Better Than Not, I welcomed Elizabeth and Marcel Bergmann, who make up the Bergmann Piano Duo. This is the first episode where I’m talking with artists that will perform at this year's The Valley Concert Society at the Matsqui Centennial Auditorium in Abbotsford. The Bergmann’s will open the 43rd Season on Thursday, October 2nd, joined by violinist Jasper Wood and cellist Sungyong Lim. Both Elizabeth and Marcel are concert pianists who have performed internationally and taken the piano duet to a whole new level. In our conversation, the Bergmann's talked about the profound impact of live performance and the unique connection between the artist and audience. They also shared insights into their creative process and the unique challenges of playing together ... and much more. Come out, experience the beauty of their music that’s sure to take your breath away. For more on Elizabeth and Marcel, you can find them at www.bergmannduo.com. For tickets to their performance: www.valleyconcertsociety.com.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I welcome back friend, musician and music aficionado Craig Collett. Lots of music talk again in this episode and the transformative power of music through the lens of legendary musicians like the late Brian Wilson. Craig talks about how soundscapes and heartfelt lyrics not only shaped the music industry but touched so many worldwide. Craig shares stories of inspiration, healing, and his trip to a place he says everyone needs visit at least one in this lifetime. Tune in for a memorable journey into the world of music and a few surprises along the way.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the privilege of a return conversation with adventurer West Hansen (first time on video). I first talked to West after he led the Arctic Cowboys, a four-person kayak team, to be the first not only to kayak through the Northwest Passage in one season but the first to kayak the passage period. In this conversation, West had just completed the Yukon 1000, a 1000-mile extreme canoe race, and was on his return home. We discussed the challenges of the race, the differences between canoes and kayaks, and the importance of team dynamics in expeditions. West also let me in on news of his plans for another expedition along with a few more surprises. You can find out more about West and his expeditions at www.westhansen.com.

In this episode, I had the privilege of talking with Barry Keane, the renown drummer for the late Gordon Lightfoot. For 48 years, Barry performed along side his friend Gordon Lightfoot. In our conversation, Barry recounted the serendipitous events that led him to connecting with Lightfoot and being part of the North American music scene including unbelievable stories like that of recording the iconic Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald. He shares the influence of family in his musical career and the unpredictable nature of the music industry including memories of performances, the impact of friendship and loss, and his gratitude for the opportunities he has been given. For more on Barry, you can find him at www.thelightfootband.com.

In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with friend Carolyn Garton, who is currently doing missions work in the Ukraine. Carolyn shares her transformative story from the comforts of Canada to her “boots-on-the-ground” service in Ukraine amidst the ongoing war. She recounts the joys and challenges of living in a war zone, her commitment to humanitarian work and the profound impact of her faith. She describes some of the miraculous experiences that have enabled her to maintain a spirit of resilience and hope throughout. For more on Carolyn, you can find her at www.loadsoflove.org.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of talking with sports writer Scott Wheeler, who today writes for The Athletic of The New York Times. He’s written for the Toronto Star, the Globe and Mail, the Toronto Sun and the National Post. He’s also authored the book “On The Clock: Behind the Scenes with the Toronto Maple Leafs at the NHL Draft.” Scott shared his story from local newspaper reporting to covering the PGA tour and the NHL. He talked about the evolution of sports journalism, gave insight into some of the challenges young athletes endure today and shared about his book. To find out more about Scott, you can find him at www.theathletic.com.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure to speak with Robin Sather, a LEGO Certified Professional Builder. We explored his journey from childhood toy enthusiast to professional LEGO builder. We discussed the evolution of LEGO, the impact of the internet on the LEGO community, and the creative processes involved in building large exhibits. Robin shared insights from his experience developing a LEGO Masters TV show in New Zealand, the physical act of storytelling with LEGO building, and the future of LEGO in the digital age. The conversation highlights the universal appeal of LEGO and its ability to connect people across generations. To find out more about Robin, you can find him at www.brickville.ca.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the privilege to speak with Lieven Callewaert, the director of a global consortium exploring the interconnectedness of housing, financing and wellbeing. We discussed the personal and societal implications of the housing crisis, addressing the systemic issues within the housing market as a whole. We explored the multifaceted challenges and innovative solutions that surround housing. Lieven emphasized the ideals of the home versus the investment vehicle of a house and highlighted the urgency of rethinking our approach to housing and the role of social capital in creating sustainable communities. Much of what he talked about, we're not hearing through traditional media channels.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I welcome back film director Nicola Rose to discuss her latest film, Magnetosphere, which is set to release on all major streaming platforms July 22. We delve into the challenges of indie film distribution, the creative process behind directing and writing, and the impact of being brought up in a creative household. Nicola shares insights on navigating health challenges while pursuing her passion for filmmaking and the importance of being in the zone to produce one’s best work. The conversation also touches on her previous film, Goodbye Petrushka and the evolution of media consumption in the film industry. Be sure to catch her film Magnetosphere starring Colin Mochrie, YouTuber Steven He and previous guest on Better Than Not William C. Cole, releasing on all streaming platforms Tuesday July 22.

In this episode of Better Than Not, I was pleased to welcome our Lead Pastor Mark Burch at Northview Community Church in Abbotsford BC. We discussed Mark's journey in becoming a pastor, the importance of youth ministry, and the art of preaching. Mark shared insights on church leadership, the impact of the pandemic on church dynamics, and the need for a welcoming church environment. He emphasized the importance of scripture in ministry and the significance of community engagement. We also touched on influential books and the plans for Northview's growing congregation, concluding with encouragement for those seeking faith and purpose. For more on Pastor Mark, you can find him at www.northview.org.