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  • A Day to  Remember

    A Canadian Remembrance Day Tribute
    They walk among us every day. At the grocery store, at the hockey rink, and in our communities. They are ordinary Canadians who have answered an extraordinary call to serve their country.
    This tribute honours the brave men and women of the Canadian Armed Forces who have fought for freedom, defended our nation, and brought hope to people around the world.
    From the battlefields of two World Wars to Korea, Afghanistan, and countless peacekeeping missions and right here at home, generations of Canadians have sacrificed so much for others.
    Some returned home to joyful reunions. Others returned carrying the invisible scars of war. Tragically, thousands never came home at all.
    We remember their courage, their families, and their sacrifices. We honour those who served, those who continue to serve, and those who gave everything.
    They are our ordinary heroes. We will never forget. Lest we forget.

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    4 min
  • Aaron Pritchett - Cowboy Christmas

    Canadian country music star Aaron Pritchett joins Terry for a candid, funny, and heartfelt conversation on The Reluctantly Podcast.
    With the Coast to Coast Cowboy Christmas Tour alongside George Canyon just around the corner, Aaron shares what fans can expect, including plenty of laughs, great music, and unscripted moments.
    The conversation takes a trip down memory lane, from Aaron’s childhood in British Columbia and his early musical influences like Stevie Wonder and James Brown to the surprising discovery that country music was his calling.
    Aaron also talks proudly about his talented sons and their musical careers, his recent marriage to Sandy Rae, and how finding love has changed his perspective on life, family, and success.
    Plus, there’s golf course trash talk, a mysterious upcoming project, and details about a special European Christmas river cruise.
    Great stories, genuine laughs, and a side of country Christmas cheer!
    Key Topics
    Pritchett and George Canyon have been friends since crossing paths in the late 1990s, and their Coast to Coast Cowboy Christmas performances rely on set lists, stories, and spontaneous interaction rather than rehearsed banter.
    Pritchett grew up in northern British Columbia, including time in Boston Bar and Kitimat, and remembers traveling to Prince George for hockey tournaments and later returning there to perform.
    His early musical touchstones included Stevie Wonder, James Brown, Sam Cooke, Motown, Elvis Presley, and The Beatles; Randy Travis’s appearance on television helped turn him toward country music.
    Local artist Bing Armstrong showed Pritchett that a Canadian musician could get on the radio, while Rick Tippy mentored him on both music and the importance of having his personal life in order.
    Pritchett says entertainment and connecting with an audience are central strengths, even as he downplays claims that he is the greatest singer, songwriter, or instrumentalist.
    His son Jordan developed as a guitarist and singer, played with Faber Drive, collaborates with Danielle in Cross Parallel, releases solo work, and produces Pritchett’s music; sons Braden and Mason perform together as the R&B/soul duo Atlantis One.
    Pritchett’s children have joined him on stage, and Jordan is expected to perform with him and George Canyon during the Christmas tour.
    Pritchett and Sandy Rae married privately in February and celebrated with family in June. He says their relationship helped him put his identity as a husband and father ahead of career validation.
    The 2027 Coast to Coast Cowboy Christmas Danube River cruise is planned for November 21-29, traveling between Budapest and Vienna with performances and city excursions.
    Takeaways
    “We have a set list, but when it comes to the rehearsal part of it, there really isn't any of that.”
    “It's gotta be as honest and genuine as you possibly can get.”
    “Those were the songs of my childhood that made me love music.”
    “Randy Travis came on this TV show and I was, ‘Who's this guy? What's this voice?’”
    “I can be somebody in this industry if I work hard enough to and get some recordings done and go and get on the radio.”
    “I really take pride in my entertainment factor when you come to a show.”
    “That's what it takes, is that kind of devotion.”
    “My identity now is being my wife's husband and being the best dad I possibly can.”
    “I don't feel like I have to prove anything to anyone in my music career.”
    “Getting on stage is still great and it's a lot of fun, but it's not my major focus in the world.”
    key frameworks
    action items
    Chapters
    00:00 - Introducing the Coast to Coast Cowboy Christmas tour
    02:39 - Why Pritchett and George Canyon skip rehearsed stories
    05:41 - Growing up in northern B.C. and playing hockey in Prince George
    08:42 - From Motown and Stevie Wonder to country music
    14:04 - Bing Armstrong and Rick Tippy’s influence
    16:13 - A family without a musical legacy, and Pritchett’s performer instinct
    20:34 - Jordan, Cross Parallel, and the next generation of musicians
    24:23 - Sharing the stage with his children
    26:17 - A surprise wedding and finding a partner
    28:13 - How family reshaped Pritchett’s identity and priorities
    31:06 - A secret collaboration and the 2027 Danube cruise
    33:24 - Tour dates, Edmonton stop, and closing conversation
    www.aaronpritchett.com
    www.reluctantlypodcast.com
    @AaronPritchett @ZoneOnePodcast @TheWealthRoundUp @thenetworkofgiving @TheAlbertaGolfPodcast @DistilleryDiscovery
    #AaronPritchett #GeorgeCanyon #Canadiancountrymusic #CoasttoCoastCowboyChristmas, #countrymusiccareer #family #musicinfluences #rivercruise

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    35 min
  • Jacquie Daniels - Where Waylon Meets Dolly

    Roots, rebellion, rhinestones, and a whole lot of attitude! Award-winning outlaw country powerhouse Jacquie Daniels joins Terry on The Reluctantly Podcast for a spirited conversation about music, identity, resilience, and refusing to fit into anybody else's box.
    From her Métis heritage and musical upbringing to finding her voice in a male-dominated industry, Jacquie shares the experiences that shaped her fearless approach to life and performing. She talks about her musical influences, the inspiration behind her songs, her Nashville songwriting recognition, and why putting on a show means more than simply playing music.
    There are plenty of laughs along the way, including questionable airplane etiquette, her obsession with rhinestones, and the dangers of picking a fight with someone wearing sparkles!
    It's an entertaining, honest, and occasionally outrageous conversation about standing your ground, chasing your dreams, and staying unapologetically yourself.
    Outlaws never die, and Jacquie Daniels is living proof!
    Key Topics
    Daniels explains “Outlaws Never Die” as a statement of identity, moral conviction, and standing up to bullies.
    She credits her family, martial arts, and Métis and Cree heritage with shaping her values and sense of justice.
    Her father introduced her to guitar, while demanding early singing practice helped build her vocal endurance and persistence.
    Daniels says artists need bandmates who share their standards, while autonomy and collaboration help creativity thrive.
    She describes being pushed toward a softer, more feminine performance style and the unequal scrutiny women face onstage.
    Influences including Bonnie Tyler, Faith Hill, Tara Lightfoot, and Taylor Momsen helped her embrace her powerful voice and return to music.
    Daniels identifies as an entertainer, emphasizing stagecraft, audience energy, and the distinct impact of live shows.
    Her Artist Blueprint is intended to share practical experience on EPKs, grants, career choices, and lessons learned without paywalls.
    She discusses award-winning songwriting, the themes behind “Tax Man,” and the upcoming song “In My Bones.”
    Daniels shares upcoming performance plans and urges artists to explore music beyond their genre to keep growing.
    Chapters
    00:00 - Meet Jackie Daniels: roots, rebellion, resilience
    02:32 - What “Outlaws Never Die” means to her
    06:31 - Family lineage, fairness, and standing up for others
    11:45 - A musical childhood built on persistence
    16:15 - Finding bandmates who share your ambition
    20:27 - Gendered expectations and perfectionism in music
    28:18 - A powerful voice, unapologetic style, and real-life Jackie
    32:04 - The artists who helped her reclaim her voice
    39:51 - Why she calls herself an entertainer
    46:09 - Encouraging young artists to take up space
    49:38 - The Artist Blueprint and sharing hard-won knowledge
    55:06 - "Tax Man,” songwriting awards, and “In My Bones”
    01:02:03 - Crossing genres, upcoming shows, and international ambitions
    @jacquiedaniels www.jacquiedanielsmuzic.com
    www.reluctantlypodcast.com
    @ZoneOnePodcast @TheWealthRoundUp @thenetworkofgiving @DistilleryDiscovery @TheAlbertaGolfPodcast
    #JackieDaniels #outlawcountry #womeninmusic #liveperformance #ArtistBlueprint #EPK #independentmusicians #TaxMan #Southernrock #yegmusic #edmontonmusic

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    1 hr 9 min
  • Irvin Miller - Country Funk

    What does a 23-year-old kid from the East Coast know about the blues? Turns out, a hell of a lot!
    Terry sits down with rising Canadian blues and country-soul sensation Irvin Miller, a young man with an old soul, a powerhouse voice, and musical instincts that seem decades beyond his years.
    From skipping school to dig through vinyl records in Halifax to sleeping in his minivan while chasing gigs, Irvin shares his remarkable journey. He talks about the influence of B.B. King, Mahalia Jackson, and the Temptations, the importance of faith, and the Winnipeg blues community that helped shape his career.
    Now signed to Sky Song Records, with a full-length album planned for 2027, Irvin is just getting started.
    It's a conversation about passion, perseverance, authenticity, and why great music should always make you feel something.
    Trust me, man...you'll want to remember this name.
    Key Topics
    Irvin Miller explains how his grandfather's name and a love of traditional styles inform his identity and presentation.
    He credits Bill Withers, Freddie King, Waylon Jennings, Mahalia Jackson, B.B. King, the Temptations, and Marvin Gaye as formative influences.
    Miller describes gospel music as his musical home and a path back to faith, while emphasizing that listeners need not share his beliefs to feel the music.
    After leaving university, he toured in a minivan, taking informal gigs and playing wherever he could for a meal and a chance to sing.
    He says his first full-length record is in preparation, with new music planned for summer 2027.
    Miller traces his writing confidence to moving from the East Coast to Winnipeg at around age 20 and finding support in Manitoba's music scene.
    He recounts bombing at the Times Change(d) High & Lonesome Club before earning encouragement from Big Dave McLean and returning to the weekly blues jam.
    Miller says emotionally honest music matters more than looking cool, and describes blues as music that connects people through shared struggles.
    He frames each milestone as a reason to keep refining his craft, and says audiences deserve his complete effort for the money and time they give.
    Takeaways
    “I'm not doing anything new or creating anything. What I'm doing is paying homage to the people that have inspired me greatly.”
    “All I can hope to do is to relay that feeling.”
    “When you're looking for it, it's gonna be everywhere.”
    “All I wanted to do was just give people, if they weren't exposed to it yet, I just wanted them to feel what the weight and impact that these songs held.”
    “I couldn't care less about being cool.”
    “The blues is beautiful because it makes you feel something.”
    “I hear all those things I had to get through.”
    “It's always fine-tuning.”
    “If you're taking money from people at the door, that's a very valuable thing.”
    “If you're not giving them everything, then you're giving nothing.”
    key frameworks
    The woodworking/lathe metaphor: career growth as continual shaping and sanding, with each milestone prompting further refinement.
    Chapters
    00:00 - Meet Irvin Miller, a young singer with an old-soul sound
    02:24 - A family name and a commitment to tradition
    04:06 - The records and gospel voices behind his sound
    07:35 - Church, faith, and gospel as a musical gateway
    10:07 - Building a team and preparing a 2027 full-length
    12:47 - Record-store discoveries and a do-it-yourself first tour
    18:51 - The Temptations, emotional honesty, and what blues is for
    23:45 - Finding his writing voice and a home in Manitoba
    26:26 - Big Dave McLean and the Times Change(d) blues jam
    31:21 - Hard years, gratitude, and the craft of constant refinement
    37:32 - A lifelong passion and giving audiences everything
    42:03 - Road stories, local bars, and meeting people
    www.irvinmiller.com
    @irvinmillerband
    www.reluctantlypodcast
    @ZoneOnePodcast @TheWealthRoundUp @thenetworkofgiving @TheAlbertaGolfPodcast @DistilleryDiscovery
    #IrvinMiller #blues #gospelmusic #Canadianblues #Winnipegmusicscene #BigDaveMcLean #countryfunk #liveperformance

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    44 min
  • SecondHand Dreamcar - Dana, Harry, Jamie

    Nine musicians, one massive sound, and absolutely no plans for synchronized choreography!
    Terry sits down with Dana Wylie, Harry Gregg, and Jamie Cooper of Edmonton's Juno-nominated nine-piece powerhouse, Secondhand Dreamcar.
    Fresh off the release of their sophomore album, *Get Ready*, the band shares the story behind their unlikely beginnings, their explosive live performances, and the chemistry that makes nine accomplished musicians sound like one.
    From recording live off the floor to navigating egos, crowded stages, and the realities of making a living in music, the conversation explores what makes this band tick.
    They also discuss their Juno nomination, musical influences, upcoming Canadian tour dates, dreams of playing Europe, and why opening for Tedeschi Trucks Band would be the ultimate gig.
    It's an entertaining, candid conversation about musical passion, collaboration, and finding something special when you least expect it.
    Key Topics
    Band's live performance dynamics
    Recording live off the floor
    Band's collaborative songwriting process
    Impact of Juno nomination on the band
    Touring strategies and future plans
    Band's evolution and growth
    Music production insights
    Balancing personal lives and touring
    Creative process for setlists and recordings
    Chapters
    00:00 - Introduction to Secondhand Dreamcar
    04:00 - Performance vs. Illusion in Music
    08:52 - Band's Size and Venue Challenges
    14:51 - Band’s Future Goals and Aspirations
    19:04 - Band’s Approach to Collaboration
    22:55 - Handling Egos and Creative Input
    24:40 - Band’s Creative Process and Idea Sharing
    26:46 - Touring Schedule and Band Cohesion
    27:37 - Family Life and Band Commitments
    30:08 - Setlist and Song Selection Strategies
    31:49 - Band’s Future Aspirations
    32:44 - Next Album and Creative Direction
    34:33 - Growth and Development Over Time
    35:04 - European Tour and Audience Reception
    36:14 - Band’s Musical Influences and Development
    37:46 - Previous Musical Genres and Experience
    40:22 - Harry Gregg’s Producing and Genre Experience
    41:37 - Transition from Other Genres to Blues and Roots
    43:14 - Dream Collaborations and Influences
    44:32 - Upcoming Tour Dates and Closing Remarks
    www.secondhanddreamcar.com
    www.reluctantlypodcast.com
    @SecondhandDreamcar @ZoneOnePodcast @TheWealthRoundUp @thenetworkofgiving @TheAlbertaGolfPodcast @DistilleryDiscovery
    #SecondhandDreamcar #liveperformance #recordingprocess #bandchemistry #musicindustry #albumrelease #touring #songwriting #banddynamics #musicproduction

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    46 min
  • Jordan Hart & Emily Schultz - Long Time Coming

    Two of Canada’s most compelling singer-songwriters join Terry: Emily Schultz and Jordan Hart. Their paths first crossed in Edmonton’s music community, and today they are partners in marriage, music, and the stage.
    Terry traces the story back to the Christmas Jam, where a thirteen-year-old Emily sang alongside her sister Samantha. Emily and Jordan then discuss their duet “Keep Her Warm,” the healing power of songwriting, and why support beats competition in music.
    Jordan shares the making of his new single, “Something You Can Hold On To,” released September 25, and the vintage ribbon microphone behind its choir-like harmonies.
    Plus: their coming full-length duet record, a 2027 international tour, and a fall Canadian run wrapping up in Edmonton at the Rooster Cafe and Kitchen just before Christmas.
    Listen now to hear the stories, the harmonies, and the music behind their next chapter. Visit EmilySchultz.com to watch “Keep Her Warm.”
    KeyTopics
    Musical journey from Edmonton to international stages
    The importance of community and support in music
    Songwriting as a form of emotional expression
    The dynamics of musical collaboration and support
    Upcoming tour plans and the challenges of touring with a band
    The role of family and early influences in musical development
    The emotional power of music and performance
    The process of recording and producing music at home
    Balancing personal life and artistic growth
    The future of Emily and Jordan's musical projects
    Chapters
    00:00 -Introduction to Emily Schultz and Jordan Hart
    02:12 -The emotional impact of their music and performances
    04:01 -Their long-standing relationship and musical collaboration
    06:52 -Early influences and family background in music
    09:52 -The journey from Edmonton to touring across Canada
    14:47 -The creative process behind their latest music
    20:05 -Recording techniques and the use of choir in their music
    24:57 -Balancing personal life, marriage, and music career
    29:50 -The therapeutic power of songwriting and sharing
    35:05 - Upcoming tour plans and future projects
    40:06 -The importance of community and support in their music
    45:20 -Reflections on their musical growth and future ambitions
    49:52 -Closing thoughts and gratitude
    www.emilyschultz.com
    www.jordanhartsound.com
    www.reluctantlypodcast.com
    @Jordanhartsound @emilynschultz
    @ZoneOnePodcast @TheWealthRoundUp @thenetworkofgiving @TheAlbertaGolfPodcast @DistilleryDiscovery
    #musicjourney #songwriting #performance #musicalcommunity #duet #touring #emotionalmusic #collaboration #Canadianartists #musicalgrowth 

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    1 hr 2 min
  • GEDFest '26

    Nine years after the passing of Tragically Hip frontman Gord Downie, his music, legacy and impact continue to bring Canadians together.
    On this episode of The Reluctantly Podcast, Terry sits down with Gedfest Edmonton organizers Neil Brown and Tyson Brown, along with Kyle Noon of Hip tribute band Hypnotical, to talk about Gedfest 26 — a nationwide celebration of Gord Downie and The Tragically Hip happening October 17 (Edmonton Show). Check www.gedfest.ca for show dates in your area.
    They trace Gedfest’s growth from a single Calgary event into a movement spanning 12 cities, sharing stories about the music, the fans and the deeply personal connections that keep the Hip’s legacy alive.
    Terry also digs into his own four decades in Edmonton radio, including unforgettable Hip concerts, the band’s early days, and an incredible night playing pool with Gord Downie and Midnight Oil’s Peter Garrett.
    It’s music, memories, Canadiana and a great cause — with proceeds supporting local cancer charities across the country.
    Key Topics
    The origins of Gedfest and its growth across Canada
    The role of tribute bands in celebrating Canadian music
    The impact of Gord Downie and the Tragically Hip on Canadian culture
    The charitable initiatives supported by Gedfest, including cancer research and awareness
    The upcoming Gedfest event in Edmonton on October 17th
    The influence of the Tragically Hip on Canadian identity and unity
    The importance of local charities and community support in Gedfest's mission
    Memorable moments and stories from Tragically Hip concerts and events
    The process of organizing tribute bands and securing permissions
    The significance of Canadian music in fostering national pride
    Chapters
    00:00 — Gedfest 2026 and the episode’s guests
    01:06 — How Gedfest grew from Calgary to a national event
    04:18 — The founders, cancer-care fundraising, and local causes
    08:17 — Fundraising goals and the Man Van
    10:30 — Family connections, cancer, and personal motivation
    13:23 — Hypnotical and the Tragically Hip tribute bands
    17:07 — Gedfest’s reach, including Buffalo
    18:41 — The Hip’s legacy and the tribute-band experience
    25:23 — Memories of the final tour and unforgettable shows
    34:20 — Songwriting, Canadian identity, and Hip lyrics
    37:59 — Event details, local charities, and ways to support
    46:16 — Terry’s radio memories and what makes the music bring people together
    52:29 — Favorite songs and the Road Apples album
    56:31 — Invitation to Gedfest and episode sign-off

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    1 hr 4 min
  • Les Bits Encore - Oilers! Sports!

    The Edmonton Oilers are back—and so are Quinn Phillips and Paulina Denholm from The Bits! Terry welcomes two of his favourite sports guests back to The Reluctantly Podcast for a wide-ranging, unfiltered conversation ahead of the #Oilers’ season opener.
    The trio tackles the controversial #AlexFormenton signing, the Oilers’ history of offering second chances, and the bigger questions surrounding hockey culture, accountability, and making sports a safer, more welcoming space for women. They also dig into #MikeBabcock behind the bench, Edmonton’s goaltending, life without #DarnellNurse, Ryan Nugent-Hopkins’ place in Oilers history, and reasons for optimism heading into the new season.
    Then things get lighter with the surging Edmonton Elks, #NFL predictions, and Terry getting a crash course in #fantasyfootball—including learning how to actually change his lineup.
    Sports, strong opinions, laughs, and absolutely no shortage of tangents.
    Key Topics
    Off-season moves of the Edmonton Oilers
    Impact of recent signings like Alex Formenton
    Team culture and issues in men's sports
    Coaching styles and leadership in hockey
    Fantasy football strategies and league insights
    CFL enthusiasm and fan engagement
    The significance of player character and accountability
    The influence of sports culture on team dynamics
    Chapters
    00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction
    02:00 - Edmonton Oilers' Off-Season Highlights
    03:56 - Significance of Alex Formanton Signing
    05:54 - Team Culture and Past Incidents
    10:10 - Historical Context of Second Chances in Hockey
    14:53 - Addressing Sexual Assault and Accountability
    20:05 - The Role of Leadership and Coaching Styles
    25:06 - The Impact of Court Verdicts on Sports Culture
    30:00 - Goalkeeping and Defensive Strategies
    35:03 - Player Development and Leadership in Oilers
    40:01 - Coaching Styles and Team Dynamics
    45:44 - NFL and CFL Season Outlook
    49:48 - Fantasy Football Insights and Strategies
    55:03 - Engagement with Sports Fans and Community
    58:54 - Closing Remarks and Future Outlook
    www.thebits.ca www.reluctantlypodcast.com
    @TheBitsYeg @ZoneOnePodcast @TheWealthRoundUp @TheAlbertaGolfPodcast @DistilleryDiscovery @thenetworkofgiving
    #EdmontonOilers #sportsculture #teammanagement #coaching #CFL #sportsdiscussion #womeninsports

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    1 hr 1 min
  • Maureen & Randall Purvis - A Dance to Remember

    As Remembrance Day approaches, Terry sits down with Maureen and Randall Purvis of the No Stone Left Alone Memorial Foundation to explore how a promise made by a 12-year-old girl in 1971 grew into an international movement of remembrance.


    Since its official beginning in Edmonton in 2011, No Stone Left Alone has connected thousands of students with Canada’s military history by bringing them into cemeteries to place poppies on veterans’ headstones, say their names, and simply say, “Thank you.” Today, the initiative reaches hundreds of locations across multiple countries.


    Maureen and Randall discuss the importance of passing remembrance to a new generation, the upcoming Dance to Remember fundraiser, the power of volunteers and community support, and their vision for ensuring the mission continues for generations to come.


    It’s a conversation about service, sacrifice, gratitude, community—and keeping a promise that no stone will be left alone.
    Key Topics
    The origins of No Stone Left Alone and its significance
    The evolving recognition of veterans' sacrifices over the years
    Upcoming fundraising events including the Dance to Remember
    The importance of community involvement and volunteer support
    Educational efforts to keep the memory of fallen soldiers alive
    The role of government and military support for remembrance initiatives
    The impact of international involvement and global recognition
    Strategies for sustaining and expanding the organization’s reach

    Chapters

    (00:00) - Introduction to No Stone Left Alone and its significance
    (01:06) - Maureen and Randall Purvis share the origins of the organization
    (02:34) - Personal stories and the importance of remembrance
    (05:04) - Changes in remembrance practices over the years
    (07:00) - The impact of recent global events on remembrance awareness
    (09:22) - The significance of the annual Dance to Remember event
    (12:50) - The power of community and volunteer involvement
    (14:09) - The emotional experience of attending remembrance ceremonies
    (16:37) - Details about the upcoming Dance to Remember and fundraising efforts
    (19:20) - Exciting auction items and sponsorship opportunities
    (21:09) - The importance of volunteer support across Canada
    (22:51) - The national remembrance ceremony and future plans
    (26:01) - Ways to get involved and support No Stone Left Alone
    (30:02) - Fundraising ideas and ongoing support opportunities
    (32:55) - The significance of community support and military recognition
    (35:47) - Closing remarks and upcoming events

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    38 min
  • Melody McArthur - She's All That

    Terry sits down with multidisciplinary Cree artist, actor, musician, writer, mentor, and entrepreneur Melody McArthur. Melody shares how grief, loss, an abusive relationship, and years of self-doubt shaped her determination to build a meaningful creative life. She reflects on stepping beyond her comfort zone, trusting intuition, overcoming imposter syndrome, and using every opportunity to help others see what is possible. Melody also discusses her early musical influences, Indigenous identity, touring with the ground breaking all-Indigenous musical Bear Grease, performing off-Broadway, and joining Audible’s Indigenous Writers’ Circle. The conversation explores her forthcoming album and memoir project, The Gospel Truth, as well as a deeply personal new podcast focused on missing and murdered Indigenous people. With honesty, humour, and vulnerability, Melody explains why storytelling, community, compassion, and taking risks remain central to everything she creates—and why talent means little without the courage and drive to keep going.
    Key Topics
    The experiences that shaped Melody’s ambition
    Building confidence through risk-taking and stepping outside her comfort zone
    Growing up in Canyon Creek and Slave Lake
    Discovering performance as a child
    Leaving an abusive relationship and rediscovering her identity
    Launching a podcast about missing and murdered Indigenous people
    Bear Grease, off-Broadway history, and Indigenous representation
    Mentorship, creative collaboration, and her upcoming writing projects
    Addiction, mental health, social responsibility, and root causes
    Why representation can inspire people to pursue their own dreams
    Chapters
    Absolutely — here they are with the timestamps in parentheses:(00:00) - Where to begin?
    (01:21) - Why Melody’s story has many layers
    (02:15) - Grief, loss, and a bigger-than-self mindset
    (03:14) - Comfort zone, risk-taking, and imposter syndrome
    (04:53) - Finding opportunities
    (06:59) - Supporting artists is part of her own art
    (09:41) - How childhood sensitivity shaped her growth
    (12:06) - Growing up isolated in Canyon Creek and Slave Lake
    (13:04) - The early impact of Shania Twain
    (15:24) - Becoming a storyteller, not just a singer
    (16:17) - Early stage life, pageants, and talent shows
    (18:14) - Singing as a vessel and becoming vulnerable onstage
    (18:43) - Leaving abuse and rediscovering herself on tour
    (20:56) - Internal change, spirituality, and self-protection
    (21:53) - Launching a podcast on missing and murdered Indigenous people
    (23:20) - First cases, audience response, and doing the work carefully
    (24:20) - Research, emotional limits, and pacing the project
    (26:25) - Why social media comments reveal hidden information
    (27:48) - Community roots, Bear Grease, and shared social issues
    (29:45) - Why long-form storytelling matters in true crime
    (31:15) - Mentoring younger people and encouraging them to try
    (33:23) - Taking risks before knowing the full plan
    (34:30) - Compassion, healing, and recovering after loss
    (37:18) - Loss of a son and her father, and finding meaning again
    (38:17) - Juggling the lyric book, podcast, gigs, and seventh album
    (40:02) - Applying to Audible’s writer’s circle
    (41:23) - Mentorship, alignment, and creative growth
    (42:48) - Workshops, networking, and the book project
    (43:41) - A future collaboration she cannot yet discuss
    (43:49) - Bear Grease, off-Broadway history, and representation
    (45:29) - Broadway vs. off-Broadway explained
    (46:36) - What off-Broadway feels like as an artist and audience member
    (48:37) - Pride in performing for Indigenous communities
    (50:43) - Keeping the story universal while rooted in culture
    (52:25) - Division, leadership, and the power of collective action
    (53:13) - Speaking her mind on social media
    (54:29) - Could politics be part of the future?
    (55:02) - Staying open to possibility without forcing it
    (56:01) - Using humor to handle disagreement
    (57:18) - Why Melody could be an effective leader
    (58:39) - Becoming the “someone” you’re waiting for
    (59:09) - Why her family never formed a band
    (60:38) - Survival, family history, and cultural reconnection
    (63:53) - Residential school trauma and intergenerational impact
    (65:41) - What needs to be talked about now
    (66:19) - Addiction as a symptom, not the root problem
    (67:48) - Society’s role in shaping people and outcomes
    (69:34) - Labels, race, and unlearning division
    (70:37) - What is next for Melody
    (71:01) - Returning to acting and auditioning
    (72:28) - Barriers, bias, and trusting the universe
    (74:00) - Anxiety, stage work, and channeling energy
    (76:01) - Vulnerability, homelessness, and social responsibility
    (76:50) - Where to find Melody online
    (78:11) - The Secret Sound story and a $5,000 win
    (80:10) - Wrap up over beers
    www.melodymcarthur.ca
    www.reluctantlypodcast.com
    @ZoneOnePodcast @TheWealthRoundUp @thenetworkofgiving @TheAlbertaGolfPodcast @DistilleryDiscovery

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    1 hr 24 min

About Reluctantly...

From the publisher's feed

Remarkable people with fantastic stories that deserve to be heard. Terry Evans let's the guest tell their story. Comics, Musicians, Sports Personalities, Entrepreneurs, Weirdos, Wackos and Nutbars.…