The Bandtogether Podcast

In this episode we have the privilege of speaking with professional hockey journeyman Josh Gratton. Josh’s successful hockey career included an AHL Calder Cup Championship in 2005, NHL stops in Philadelphia and Phoenix as well as time in Russia, Finland and the United Kingdom. Never one to shy away from a physical altercation or fight, Josh discusses his struggles dealing with multiple concussions throughout his career and how they ultimately affected his mental health. Josh reflects on the impact of yoga, physical fitness and diet on coping and managing his health. Listen as Josh discusses the freedom he has experienced from shame and inner pain through vulnerably sharing his story!

We are so honoured to speak with former NHL hockey player Jake Newton as he vulnerably and courageously shares his experience dealing with being sexually abused as a child. During the 2011-12 season, Jake began his journey of recovery including intensive therapy, multiple times a week, as he began to process his childhood trauma. Jake details his the healing journey including the effects of meditation, affirmations, visualization and talk therapy. Jake’s powerful story has been featured in the Hockey News. Join us for this incredible interview with such an amazing and inspirational man!

During this episode we have the opportunity to chat with a member of our own community April Prescott. April’s wide range of knowledge includes yoga instruction, mindfulness and mediation training through UC Berkeley as well as instructing in the area of trauma informed practice. April’s added background and formal studies in education at the University of Alberta give her the unique ability communicate her knowledge and experience in very practical and usable ways. Through her own practice of awareness and growth, April also reflects on her own journey with depression and anxiety.  Join us for this insightful and encouraging conversation with April!

Phil Calvert currently works with International Justice Mission, whose work involves responding and rescuing children being exploited and abused through online cyber-sex trafficking. Phil has presented on how technology is fuelling a staggering and alarming growth of cyber-sex trafficking. Phil discusses how vicarious trauma he has experienced through IJM’s impactful and highly emotional work has affected him and steps he takes to cope. Phil also details his own personal mental health journey as well as the effects of EMDR therapy on his psyche. Phil is a proud Calgarian where he currently resides with his Wife and 2 children.   

After being convicted of possession of narcotics with intent to sell, Doug Bopst was sentenced to months in jail. During his time locked in his cell, Doug overcame his addiction issues and inner demons through a focus on faith, family and fitness. Leveraging his amazing story of transformation, Doug is now an award-winning personal trainer, author, speaker and business owner. Doug’s amazing story of transformation has been featured in national media outlets such as the Today Show and Men’s Health. Join us for this captivating and inspirational story of transformation with an amazing man!

In this episode we continue our amazing conversation with Jordin Tootoo. Jordin shares his thoughts and experiences going through alcohol rehab during his professional hockey career. Jordin also reflects on the meaning in his story, life after hockey and his advocacy work. We thank Jordin for lending his time to the Band Together Community and are deeply grateful to have connected! Listen and enjoy!

In this episode we have the privilege of speaking to retired NHL veteran and the first ever player of Inuk descent, Jordin Tootoo. Jordin shares vulnerably about the tragic loss of his brother by suicide, the stress of competition at the highest level and his struggle with alcohol addiction and experience in rehab.

Jordin’s tireless work through the ‘Team Tootoo Fund’ raising awareness and funds youth suicide prevention, mental health awareness and violence against women is truly inspirational. Jordin is a role model to an entire community and culture and we are honoured to have the opportunity to chat!

In this episode we are honoured to speak with world renowned mindfulness and meditation coach, teacher and speaker Cory Muscara. After spending 6 months living in silence as a monk while meditating for 14 + hours each day, Cory now brings the lessons learned about mindfulness to people in a practical and innovative way. Cory has been featured on the Dr. Oz show numerous times, runs a widely successful podcast called 'Practicing Human' and has recently written a powerful book called 'Stop Missing Your Life.' Cory's meditations have been heard by more than 5 million people in over 50 different countries. Join us as we learn tangible steps and tools to becoming more present everyday!

In this episode we have the opportunity to interview Author, TV personality, professional athlete and life coach, Mike Diamond. Mike’s story of his own struggles battling addiction, life-threatening health problems and a diagnosis with a chronic illness is truly amazing and inspirational. Best known for his work on the hit TV shows NY Ink and Bondi Ink Tattoo Crew, Mike’s life has been full of diversity and challenge. In 2019, Mike set a Guinness World Record by running a half marathon everyday for 30 days to raise money and awareness for Layla Rae, who was battling a rare autoimmune disease. We are so pleased to be able to connect with Mike to discuss how we can begin to develop an unbreakable mindset!

In this episode we are honoured to interview Canadian Olympian Clara Hughes! Clara is a six-time Olympic medalist in cycling and speed skating and the only athlete in history to win multiple medals in both the Summer and Winter Games. Clara was given the honour of being the Canadian Flag Bearer for the 2010 Vancouver Olympic Games.

As the National Spokesperson for Bell Canada’s Mental Health initiative and the ‘Let’s Talk’ campaign Clara has a loud and powerful voice. By candidly sharing her own past struggles with depression, Clara has helped break down the stigma associated with mental illness. Join us for this inspiring interview with a Canadian Legend!