In this episode of Face2Face, David Peck sits down with development expert and author Ian Smillie to explore his latest memoir, Under Development: A Journey Without Maps. With wit, wisdom, and decades of global experience, Smillie reflects on what he's learned—and unlearned—about international aid, poverty, and the complexity of change. From Sierra Leone to Bangladesh, from the frontlines of the blood diamond trade to the halls of global policy, this thoughtful conversation challenges conventional thinking and offers honest, hopeful insights about what it really means to make a difference.

Get a copy of Under Development here.

Bio:

Ian Smillie is a leading Canadian voice in international development, humanitarian aid, and ethical resource extraction. With over five decades of experience, his work has taken him from teaching in Sierra Leone to advising governments and international organizations on poverty reduction, conflict prevention, and sustainable development. He played a central role in creating the Kimberley Process, an international certification scheme to halt the trade in conflict diamonds, and later chaired the Diamond Development Initiative, promoting fair labor practices for artisanal miners.

A gifted storyteller and respected policy thinker, Ian has written extensively on the challenges and contradictions of foreign aid and global development. His books include Blood on the Stone, Freedom From Want, The Alms Bazaar, and Mastering the Machine. His latest memoir, Under Development: A Journey Without Maps, is a deeply personal reflection on the promise and pitfalls of a life spent working for change.

Recognized as a Member of the Order of Canada, Ian has served on expert panels for the UN Security Council and taught at leading universities. His sharp insight, global experience, and unwavering moral compass continue to shape conversations about justice, equity, and the role of compassion in international affairs.

F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck and Face2Face. Used with permission.

For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.

With thanks to Josh Snethlage and Mixed Media Sound.

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On this episode of Face2Face, David Peck sits down with legendary filmmaker David Cronenberg and acclaimed costume designer Anne Dixon to explore their haunting new film The Shrouds. We dive into grief, storytelling, and the power of collaboration—from Dixon’s sculptural approach to costume design to Cronenberg’s reflections on love, loss, and existentialism. It’s a layered, philosophical conversation about death, creativity, and connection—and one that turns costume and character into deeply human art forms.

Synopsis:

In The Shrouds, visionary filmmaker David Cronenberg delivers one of his most personal and provocative works to date. The film follows Karsh (Vincent Cassel), a grieving tech entrepreneur who, after the death of his wife Becca (Diane Kruger), develops GraveTech—a revolutionary system that allows mourners to monitor the real-time decomposition of their loved ones via high-tech burial shrouds and smartphone apps.

Set in a near-future Toronto, the narrative unfolds as Karsh's creation becomes the center of controversy and intrigue. When several graves, including Becca's, are vandalized, Karsh embarks on a journey to uncover the perpetrators, delving into a web of conspiracies that blur the lines between technology, grief, and obsession. Drawing inspiration from Cronenberg's own experience with loss, The Shrouds is a meditation on mourning, the human desire for connection beyond death, and the unsettling intersections of technology and emotion. With its haunting visuals, a synth-heavy score by longtime collaborator Howard Shore, and a narrative that challenges perceptions of reality and memory, the film stands as a testament to Cronenberg's enduring exploration of the human condition.

David Cronenberg is one of Canada’s most influential and daring filmmakers, renowned for pushing the boundaries of cinema. Often dubbed the “Baron of Blood,” his work explores the dark intersections of technology, the body, and psychological trauma. From cult classics like Videodrome and The Fly to award-winning dramas like A History of Violence and Eastern Promises, Cronenberg has consistently challenged audiences with his provocative storytelling and signature style. With The Shrouds, he turns inward, crafting a deeply personal meditation on grief and connection, once again proving that he remains one of cinema’s most fearless auteurs.

Anne Dixon is a celebrated costume designer whose work spans film, television, opera, and dance, bringing characters to life through meticulous research and a deep understanding of visual storytelling. Her recent collaboration with Viggo Mortensen on The Dead Don’t Hurt showcases her commitment to authenticity, as she recreated 19th-century attire with precision, even commissioning traditional ceinture fléchée belts from Quebec artisans to reflect the film's French-Canadian roots.

Dixon's diverse portfolio includes projects like The Song of Names, Falling, and Anne with an E, earning her accolades such as the CAFTCAD Award and multiple Canadian Screen Award nominations. Her designs are known for their emotional depth and historical accuracy, making her a sought-after talent in the industry.

F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck and Face2Face.

For more information about David Peck please visit his site here.

With thanks to Josh Snethlage and Mixed Media Sound.

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Kenny Robinson is a Canadian comedy legend, actor, writer, and unapologetic truth-teller. In this conversation, David Peck talks with him about his new film The People of Comedy, now streaming on Crave. We explore the intersections of race, identity, and humour in Canada. We talk about comedy as protest, the power of laughter, and why Kenny has never shied away from speaking his mind. From growing up in Winnipeg to founding the iconic “Nubian Disciples of Pryor,” Kenny shares stories that are raw, real, and deeply relevant. This is a bold and brilliant take on what it means to be funny—and fearless.

Synopsis:

People of Comedy: Celebrating 30 Years of The Nubian Show is a powerful documentary from Counterfeit Pictures marking the anniversary of Kenny Robinson’s groundbreaking comedy showcase. Launched in 1995 at Toronto’s Yuk Yuk’s, the Nubian Show became a vital platform for Black and Racialized comedians to share their stories and challenge the industry status quo. Blending stand-up, interviews, and behind-the-scenes footage, the film highlights the showcase’s cultural impact and career-launching legacy, featuring appearances from Russell Peters, Hassan Phills, Crystal Ferrier, and more. A tribute to Robinson’s bold vision and the enduring power of comedy as representation and resistance.

Bio: The Fabulous Kenny Robinson is a living legend on the Canadian Comedy scene. Winner of the Phil Hartman Award, Kenny's irreverent, socially conscientious, intelligent, opinionated and profane style of comedy has made him a fixture and favourite with comedy clubs, festivals, swingers conventions, radio, and television audiences for over 3 decades.

Raunchy, energetic, sharp witted, and sharply dressed; Kenny Robinson is a one-of-a kind act. Not for the weak of heart or narrow minded, Robinson assaults your sensibilities and funny bone with unspoken truths.

The Winnipeg born, Chicago bred Robinson has hosted The Gemini Awards and was twice nominated for his writing and performance in his groundbreaking one hour special Thick and Thin on the CBC. Robinson's greatest legacy may well be his creation of The Nubian Disciples Of Pryor All Black Revue. The Nubian Show is a monthly showcase of comedians of colour, which has been one of the most exciting and successful nights of comedy in Canada since 1995.

This showcase has mentored, and been a spotlight for such comics as Russell Peters, Jean Paul, Trey Anthony, Trixx, Ron Josol, and countless others. For 2 years he was one of the co-hosts of The Morning Rush on Flow 93.5fm, Canada's first black owned hip hop radio station.

As an actor, Robinson has appeared in such films as Third Miracle with Ed Harris, Down To Earth with Chris Rock, Clement Virgo's Love comes Down, and David Sutherland's Love, Sex, and Eating the Bones.

Whether the audience looks for his cutting observational perspectives, political, sexual or what comes up at the moment, Robinson's professional attitude and love for comedy will always deliver.

F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck and Face2Face. Used with permission.

For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.

With thanks to Josh Snethlage and Mixed Media Sound.

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What happens when a daughter refuses to accept silence in the face of injustice? In this episode, Robert Osborne and Face2Face host David Peck dive deep into Malcom Is Missing—a gripping, emotionally charged true story of disappearance, corruption, and one woman’s relentless quest for answers. Journalist and author Robert Osborne joins us to unpack the book’s intimate tone and international scope, from the vibrant chaos of Puerto Vallarta to the murky depths of a broken justice system. This is a story about love, loss, and the power of not letting go.

Grab your headphones—this one’s as much about the heart as it is about the mystery.

Buy it from RMB books.

Malcom Is Missing is a gripping true-crime story that unearths layers of mystery, corruption, and a daughter's relentless pursuit of justice. Robert Osborne crafts a deeply compelling narrative, weaving together the heart-wrenching disappearance of Malcom Madsen with the complex realities of the Mexican justice system. This isn’t just a story about crime—it’s about human resilience, the power of love, and one woman’s determination to uncover the truth, no matter the cost. Through meticulous research and riveting storytelling, Osborne takes us from the vibrant streets of Puerto Vallarta to the dark corridors of power, asking us to consider the lengths we would go to for the people we love.

What sets this book apart is its raw emotional depth. Brooke Mullins, Malcom’s daughter, isn’t just a bystander—she becomes a relentless investigator, a voice for the unheard, and an unshakable force in the face of adversity. This is true crime at its finest: not just a chilling mystery but a deeply human story about justice, loss, and the pursuit of truth. It’s the kind of book that stays with you, challenging you to look beyond the headlines and into the very heart of what it means to seek justice in a world that often resists it.

Perfect for fans of true crime with heart, and a must-read for anyone who believes ordinary people can do extraordinary things.

Robert Osborne is the Senior Producer of Dam Builder Productions. He brings to the table more than 30 years of working in long format television. For much of that time he was an investigative journalist working for CTV, CBC and Global Television.Robert has won more than half a dozen RTNDA Awards, a CAJ Award and an Award of Merit from the Governor General. He has been nominated several times for Gemini awards and been part of a team that won two. In 2012 he was nominated for a CSA Award for Unlocking Alex. In 2018 he won a CSA for best writing in a documentary.

Image Copyright: Dambuilder Productions.

F2F Music & Image Copyright: David Peck & Face2Face. Used with permission.

For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.

With thanks to Josh Snethlage and Mixed Media Sound.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode join David Peck, host of Face2Face, as he chats with filmmakers Anna Toomey and Sian Edwards Beale about their powerful documentary Left Behind, which sheds light on the struggles of children with dyslexia and the fight for literacy education reform. They explore the emotional impact of storytelling, the challenges of filmmaking, and why access to education is a civil rights issue. Join us for an insightful conversation on activism, community-driven filmmaking, and the transformative power of stories.

Synopsis:

Left Behind is a powerful documentary by filmmaker Anna Toomey that exposes the struggles faced by children with dyslexia and the systemic failures in literacy education. Through deeply personal stories, the film highlights the emotional and academic challenges these children endure, while also showcasing the tireless efforts of activists, educators, and parents fighting for change. Blending compelling narratives with critical insights, Left Behind reveals how education inequity disproportionately impacts students with learning differences and underscores why access to literacy is a fundamental civil rights issue. Co-Produced by and with original music from Larry Mullen Jr. from U2 this thought-provoking film is a call to action, urging communities to advocate for inclusive education and systemic reform.

Bios:

Anna Toomey and Sian Edwards Beale are award-winning documentary filmmakers dedicated to shedding light on pressing social justice issues through the power of storytelling. As the creative forces behind Left Behind, their documentary exploring the struggles of children with dyslexia and the fight for literacy education reform, they have crafted a deeply personal and politically charged film that challenges systemic inequities in education.

Anna Toomey is a filmmaker and advocate with a passion for character-driven narratives that highlight underrepresented voices. With a background in documentary production and a commitment to grassroots activism, she brings a nuanced, empathetic approach to storytelling that resonates with audiences and drives meaningful change.

Sian Edwards Beale is a director, producer, and cinematographer whose work focuses on the intersection of storytelling and social impact. With a keen eye for visual storytelling and an emphasis on community collaboration, he believes in the power of film to inspire action and foster dialogue around critical societal issues. Together, Toomey and Edwards Beale champion inclusive and accessible education through their work, using film as a tool for advocacy and awareness. Their collaborative approach highlights the importance of community engagement, ensuring that the stories they tell not only inform but also empower audiences to take action.

F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck and Face2Face. Used with permission.

For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.

With thanks to Josh Snethlage and Mixed Media Sound.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join David Peck, host of Face2Face, as he chats with Canadian music icon Jim Cuddy and filmmaker Dale Heslip to discuss their new film, Blue Rodeo: Lost Together. In this engaging conversation, they explore the intersection of music and storytelling, the creative process behind the film, and the deep connections that make their work resonate with audiences. Tune in for behind-the-scenes insights, heartfelt moments, and a celebration of Canadian artistry.

Synopsis:

Lost Together is an engaging dive into the world of one of Canada’s most beloved bands, Blue Rodeo. With the unmistakable voices of Jim Cuddy and Greg Keelor guiding the way, this documentary blends humor, honesty, and heart to tell the story of their incredible 40-year journey. As Blue Rodeo continues to hit new creative highs, Lost Together takes you behind the scenes of their extraordinary adventure. The film is a delightful and lively celebration of Blue Rodeo’s legacy, their music, and the enduring friendship between two artists. It’s a must-watch for fans and anyone who appreciates how music can bring people together and create something truly special.

Bios:

Jim Cuddy is a Canadian singer-songwriter, best known as the co-founder and frontman of the legendary country-rock band Blue Rodeo. Since the band's formation in 1984, Cuddy's distinctive voice and heartfelt songwriting have helped shape the landscape of Canadian music, earning him multiple Juno Awards and a place in the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. Beyond Blue Rodeo, he has released several acclaimed solo albums, showcasing his signature blend of folk, rock, and country influences. Renowned for his storytelling and timeless melodies, Cuddy remains a beloved figure in Canadian music, continually inspiring audiences with his passion and authenticity.

Dale Heslip is a Canadian filmmaker, director, and creative storyteller known for his work across music, television, and film. With a keen eye for blending visual artistry with compelling narratives, he has collaborated extensively with some of Canada’s top musicians, including Jim Cuddy and Blue Rodeo. Heslip has directed numerous music videos, concert films, and documentaries, bringing a distinctive cinematic style to his projects.

His latest film, Lost Together, continues his tradition of capturing the heart and soul of music on screen. Throughout his career, Heslip has built a reputation for crafting engaging, emotionally rich stories that celebrate creativity and human connection.

F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck and Face2Face. Used with permission.

For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.

With thanks to Josh Snethlage and Mixed Media Sound.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Face2Face host David Peck as he sits down with Keith Nahanee, Janelle Niles, Quentin Lee, and Cindy AuYeung as they discuss Rez Comedy. The first all Indigenous and all Canadian stand up comedy feature film. Get more info here on the Rez Comedy website and look for the World Premiere streaming on February 14th, 2025 on Valentines Day on AAM.TV and Amazon Prime Video.

Trailer here.

Keith Nahanee is from the Squamish Nation in Vancouver, BC Canada. Keith started comedy because of the grief and struggles he saw in those around him. Keith likes to tell stories from both the dark and humorous sides of life on the Rez. There are no cute little Native jokes with Keith. Jump on the horse/canoe and hold on tight as Keith brings you on a ride through the Rez he knows.

Janelle Niles is a Black - Mi’kmaq woman from Sipekne'katik, Nova Scotia. She launched her comedy career in January 2019 in Ottawa, ON. Exploding in the nation's capital with her indigenous comedy show Got Land?, Janelle aims to communicate solidarity through humour and laughter. Her dream is to perform for Just For Laughs in Montreal and one day tour Turtle Island.

Quentin Lee is a multimedia creator and has directed and produced over ten feature films and created over three TV series. Born and raised in Hong Kong, China, Quentin went to high school in Montreal, holds a B.A. in English from UC Berkeley, an M.A. in English from Yale University, and an M.F.A. in Film Directing from UCLA. He’s a winner of 2024 Canadian Screen Awards and the 2020 Roddenberry Foundation Impact Awards for TV creators, a member of the Producers Guild of America, Canadian Media Producers Association and Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Canadian Academy of Cinema and Television, and a two-time recipient of Canada Council Media Arts grants.

Cindy Au Yeung is a winner of 2024 Canadian Screen Awards for the series Comedy Invasion that she edited and produced. Cindy is a Chinese-Canadian editor based in Vancouver with experience ranging from documentaries, scripted live-action series, to animation. As themes of representation have always been an important part of her work, Cindy volunteers as a Board of Director and co-chair of the Diversity & Inclusion committee at the Vancouver Post Alliance.

F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck and Face2Face. Used with permission.

For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.

With thanks to Josh Snethlage and Mixed Media Sound.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Face2Face host David Peck as he chats with Alan Cumming, and director Michael Clowater as they get personal while talking about their new film Drive Back Home.

See it in the theatre or on video on demand.

Drive Back Home: In the winter of 1970, a cantankerous, small town plumber from rural New Brunswick, must drive his beat-up work truck 1000 miles to Toronto to get his estranged, gay brother out of jail after being arrested for having sex in a public park. The two men are then forced to drive back home together at the behest of their hard nosed mother before they kill each other. Inspired by a true story.

Alan Cumming is an award-winning actor, author, and activist celebrated for his diverse and dynamic career across stage, film, and television. Known for his iconic roles in Cabaret on Broadway, the hit series The Good Wife, and films like X2, Alan has captivated audiences with his charisma, wit, and remarkable talent. Beyond acting, he is a best-selling author of memoirs like Not My Father’s Son and Baggage: Tales from a Fully Packed Life, which explore his journey with honesty and humor.

A tireless advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, mental health awareness, and humanitarian causes, Alan's influence extends far beyond entertainment. His distinctive voice, both literal and figurative, has made him a sought-after speaker, podcast guest, and storyteller, engaging audiences with his signature blend of insight, vulnerability, and charm.

More about Alan: www.alancumming.com

Michael Clowater is an acclaimed director and storyteller known for his deeply human and visually striking work in film and advertising. With a keen eye for capturing raw emotion and authentic narratives, Michael’s projects resonate with audiences on a profound level. His film Drive Back Home is a poignant exploration of identity, memory, and connection, showcasing his ability to blend cinematic artistry with heartfelt storytelling.

With a background in directing award-winning campaigns for global brands, Michael brings a unique perspective to his creative endeavors, combining technical expertise with a passion for exploring the human condition. Whether behind the camera or in conversation, he is a masterful communicator who draws viewers into the worlds he creates with authenticity and purpose.

F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck and Face2Face. Used with permission.

For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.

With thanks to Josh Snethlage and Mixed Media Sound.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join Face2Face host David Peck as he sits down with the visionary and Oscar nominated filmmaker Raoul Peck to explore his latest masterpiece, Ernest Cole: Lost and Found. Known for his deep, transformative storytelling, Peck delves into the life of Ernest Cole, the trailblazing South African photographer who captured the stark realities of apartheid. This poignant conversation uncovers Cole’s legacy and 60,000 photographs discovered in Sweden, the profound philosophy behind his art, and the remarkable rediscovery of his lost archive. Tune in for a riveting dialogue about art, democracy, and the human spirit—where every image is a story and every story a call to action. Raoul emphasizes the importance of storytelling in challenging perceptions, fostering community, and encouraging critical thinking. He also discusses the role of citizens in democracy and the need for education and engagement in societal issues. Don't miss this extraordinary episode celebrating the intersection of activism and artistry.

Ernest Cole: Lost and Found, winner of Cannes film festival documentary prize, L’Œil d’or 2024, is about, a South African photographer who was the first to expose the horrors of apartheid to a world audience. His book House of Bondage, published in 1967 when he was only 27 years old, led him into exile in NYC and Europe for the rest of his life.

Raoul Peck recounts his wanderings, his turmoil as an artist and his anger at the silence or complicity of the Western world in the face of the horrors of the Apartheid regime. He also recounts how, in 2017, 60,000 negatives of his work were discovered in the safe of a Swedish bank. Peck's, search for the soul of overlooked artist Ernest Cole, is nestled in an international thriller, delving into the complexities of race through his timeless imagery.

Look for a January 17th, 2025, for a North American VOD release: M2K Films & Photon Films and Magnolia Pictures

Raoul Peck is an internationally acclaimed filmmaker, writer, and activist known for his thought-provoking and socially conscious works. Born in Haiti, Peck’s storytelling often explores themes of identity, social justice, and historical memory. His award-winning films include I Am Not Your Negro, a documentary on James Baldwin’s unfinished manuscript, which received an Oscar nomination and widespread critical acclaim. A former Minister of Culture in Haiti, Peck’s works reflect a commitment to amplifying marginalized voices and challenging systemic injustices. With a career spanning decades, his projects have premiered at prestigious festivals such as TIFF, Berlinale, and Cannes. Through his unique lens, Peck continues to craft stories that provoke dialogue and inspire change on a global scale.

F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck and Face2Face. Used with permission.

For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.

With thanks to Josh Snethlage and Mixed Media Sound.

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Join Face2Face host David Peck as he sits down with Adam Sneyd, associate professor of political science at the University of Guelph, to discuss his latest book, Hidden Politics in the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Sneyd offers a critical perspective on the 17 SDGs, highlighting their vague definitions, ineffective measurement tools, and underlying political motivations.

He advocates for a more participatory, transnational approach to global development, urging a shift away from hyper-capitalist frameworks. This thought-provoking conversation explores the challenges of achieving meaningful progress and emphasizes the importance of engaged, practical discussions in the pursuit of sustainable development.

Bio:

Adam Sneyd is an associate professor of political science at the University of Guelph specializing in the politics of the global economy. He is the author of numerous books that analyze the politics of global development, including Politics Rules: Power, Globalization and Development.

Find more about him here.

F2F Music and Image Copyright: David Peck and Face2Face. Used with permission.

For more information about David Peck’s podcasting, writing and public speaking please visit his site here.

With thanks to Josh Snethlage and Mixed Media Sound.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.