BIGGER THAN ME PODCAST
Get inspired by people who make a difference bigger than themselves with host Aaron Pete. From overcoming obstacles to finding motivation, these guests will inspire you to dream bigger and strive for greatness!Popular guests include Premier David Eby, Vassy Kapelos, Brent Butt, Ariel Helwani, Rav Arora, Tara Henley and the Millennial Therapist.
Mon, March 24, 2025
191. Ravi Kahlon: What is Being Done About the Housing Crisis?
Is the BC NDP Solving the Housing Crisis? British Columbia's Minister of Housing, Ravi Kahlon, sits down with Aaron Pete to discuss the housing crisis, new legislation, Indigenous housing, US tariffs, and municipal challenges. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, March 17, 2025
190. David Coletto: What Will Decide the 2025 Federal Election?
A Canadian Polling Expert breaks down the upcoming 2025 election. David Coletto joins to discuss the key factors shaping the race, including Pierre Poilievre’s challenges, Mark Carney’s rise, Trump’s influence, affordability concerns, media dynamics, and shifting voter mindsets with host Aaron Pete. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, March 10, 2025
189. Maxime Bernier: Leader of the People's Party of Canada on the 2025 Election
What's the difference between Conservatives and the People's Party of Canada? Maxime Bernier joins Aaron Pete to discuss his party’s differences from the Conservatives, immigration, COVID-19, woke culture, the CBC, and why he believes Pierre Poilievre is a globalist. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, March 05, 2025
188. Mike Le Couteur: Are Politicians Avoiding Tough Interviews?
CTV News senior political correspondent Mike LeCouteur speaks with Aaron Pete about political accountability, media bias, the decline of traditional news, and the rise of alternative media. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Sat, March 01, 2025
187. Karina Gould: Fighting to Become the Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada
Who will represent the Liberal Party in the next election? Karina Gould joins Aaron Pete to discuss her bid for Liberal Party leadership, her vision for Canada, the challenges facing the party, Pierre Poilievre, Mark Carney, the carbon tax, reconciliation, and the future of Canadian politics. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, February 24, 2025
186. Harrison Lowman: Trudeau’s Legacy, Poilievre’s Rise & Canadian Media
Harrison Lowman, Managing Editor of The Hub, speaks with Aaron Pete about Canada’s shifting media landscape, Justin Trudeau’s legacy, Pierre Poilievre’s rise, and the challenges facing the country. They explore journalism’s role in shaping public discourse, media subsidies, and why conservative perspectives are gaining traction. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, February 17, 2025
Tara Henley: 15 Ways to Fix the CBC Before It’s Too Late
The CBC is in crisis—can it be saved? Journalist Tara Henley joins Aaron Pete to break down 15 ways to fix the CBC before it’s too late. They expose media bias, lost public trust, government influence, and why so many Canadians are calling to defund the CBC. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, February 10, 2025
184. Eric Peterson: Corner Gas, Comedy & Playing Oscar Leroy
Eric Peterson, the legendary Oscar Leroy from Corner Gas , joins Aaron Pete to discuss landing the role, the show's success, Brent Butt, and its cultural impact on Canada. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, January 01, 2025
183. Rick Hansen: Can One Person Change the World?
Aaron Pete sits down with Rick Hansen to explore his transformative journey from a life-altering accident to becoming a global advocate for people with disabilities, the emotional challenges he overcame, the inspiration he drew from Terry Fox, the iconic Man in Motion World Tour, and the powerful lessons of resilience, interdependence, and breaking barriers to create a more inclusive world. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Thu, December 26, 2024
182. Fred Ewanuick: From Shy Kid to Beloved Hank Yarbo on "Corner Gas"
Aaron Pete sits down with Fred Ewanuick to discuss his journey from shy class clown to playing Hank Yarbo on Corner Gas , working with Brent Butt, the show’s cultural impact, memorable moments like meeting The Tragically Hip, and the importance of mentorship, humuor, and Canadian values. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Sat, December 21, 2024
181. Andrew Christopher Performs LIVE and Talks About Overcoming Loss
Aaron Pete hosts an intimate live event with singer-songwriter Andrew Christopher, exploring his artistic journey, the challenges of balancing family and art, and his bold pivot to original music and meaningful projects. Through heartfelt performances, Andrew reflects on personal loss, his creative process, and the healing power of music. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, December 16, 2024
180. Vassy Kapelos: Could Trump Tariffs Cause a Recession in Canada?
Aaron Pete sits down with Vassy Kapelos, Chief Political Correspondent for CTV News, to tackle pressing topics like Canada's political polarization, the impact of Donald Trump’s tariffs, whether journalists should avoid bias, and the challenges of holding leaders like Justin Trudeau accountable. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, December 09, 2024
179. Holly Doan: Are Government Subsidies Destroying Trust in Media?
Aaron Pete sits down with Holly Doan, publisher of Blacklock's Reporter , to explore media bias, government subsidies, True North Media, defunding the CBC, Joe Rogan's Trump interview, and the critical role of independent journalism in Canada. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, December 02, 2024
178. Federal Minister Patty Hajdu on the COVID-19 Pandemic & Reconciliation
Aaron Pete sits down with Patti Hajdu, former Minister of Health and current Minister for Indigenous Services, to discuss leading during the COVID-19 crisis, reconciliation, the $360 billion Indigenous infrastructure gap, residential school denialism, and the challenges facing Indigenous businesses in Canada. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, November 26, 2024
177. Candice Malcolm: Should We Criminalize Indian Residential School Denialism?
Aaron Pete sits down with Candice Malcolm to discuss Indian Residential School denialism, free speech, True North Media, the CBC's unmarked graves story, and the impact of Leah Gazan's proposed bill on Canadian politics and freedom of expression. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, November 13, 2024
176. Mo Amir: What Role Does Media Play in a Democracy?
Aaron Pete sits down with Mo Amir, host of This is VanColour, to discuss bias in news, trust in media, political polarization and the craft of conducting meaningful interviews. They explore the role of media in fostering an informed electorate, the challenges of balanced reporting, and the importance of an informed democracy. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Sat, November 09, 2024
175. Dr. Scott Sheffield: How to Honour Veterans on Remembrance Day
Aaron Pete and Associate Professor of History Dr. Scott Sheffield as they discuss how to honour veterans this Remembrance Day. They explore the contributions of Indigenous service members in Canada, insights from WWII community efforts, and historical perspectives on current conflicts like the war in Ukraine. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, November 04, 2024
174. Mass of Man: Is Music a Tool for Healing?
Nico DeGiacomo, also known as Mass of Man, joins Aaron Pete to explore how creating music as an artist helped him confront challenges like depression and bullying. They discuss his powerful lyrics, collaborations with artists like Vin Jay and Gawne, and the healing role music has played in his life. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, October 28, 2024
173. Aiemann Zahabi: Is Justin Trudeau Leading Canada Down the Wrong Path?
UFC Fighter Aiemann Zahabi slams Justin Trudeau’s leadership, discusses rising food prices, and breaks down the impact of the carbon tax. Aiemann Zahabi also shares why he backs Pierre Poilievre for Canada’s next election and gives an inside look at his upcoming fight at UFC Edmonton with host Aaron Pete. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, September 30, 2024
172. Gary Anandasangaree: National Truth & Reconciliation Day with the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations
Aaron Pete is joined by Gary Anandasangaree, the Federal Minister for Crown-Indigenous Relations, on National Truth and Reconciliation Day to discuss his journey from youth advocate to shaping policy at the UN, his work on racial disparities in Ontario’s Education Act, his commitment to UNDRIP, and efforts to improve housing and Indigenous rights through federal initiatives and treaty negotiations. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
S2 E2 · Sun, September 22, 2024
Taste of Abby: Loren Taves Has Aaron Try Pumpkin Cider!
In this episode of Taste of Abby , Aaron sits down with Loren Taves from Taves Family Farm to explore his family's rich farming legacy, his transition from engineering to full-time farming, and their commitment to giving guests lifelong memories through innovative sustainability practices, agritourism, and unique experiences like cider tastings and pumpkin patches. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
S2 E1 · Fri, September 20, 2024
Taste of Abby: Mama Maan Surprises Aaron with Her Signature Spicy Hot Sauce
Aaron speaks with Mama Maan from Maan Farms about her family's journey from India to Canada, their passion for providing unforgettable food and farming experiences, and how they've blended tradition and innovation to create a thriving business in the Fraser Valley. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, September 18, 2024
171. Sonia Furstenau: What is the BC Green Party Platform?
Aaron Pete speaks with BC Green Party Leader Sonia Furstenau to discuss key issues shaping British Columbia's future. Together, they explore the BC Green Party's platform, tackling urgent matters like climate change, healthcare, housing, the cost of living crisis and Indigenous reconciliation. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, September 10, 2024
170. John Rustad: Are the BC Conservatives Ready to Govern?
Aaron speaks with BC Conservative Leader John Rustad on climate change, his interview with Jordan Peterson, whether he would fire Bonnie Henry and his solutions for housing, taxes, and immigration. John Rustad critiques the current NDP government's spending, healthcare failures, and drug policies. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, September 03, 2024
169. Premier David Eby: Is The BC NDP on the Right Track?
Aaron Pete interviews Premier David Eby, discussing his political journey with the BC NDP and key issues like housing affordability, infrastructure, carbon tax, government accountability and addressing the opioid crisis in British Columbia. Learn more about Enbridge: https://www.enbridge.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, August 27, 2024
168. Kevin Falcon: Is the BC United Party Relevant?
Aaron Pete interviews BC United leader Kevin Falcon, discussing his return to politics, the controversial rebranding from BC Liberals to BC United, and the challenges of healthcare reform, addiction recovery, taxation, housing affordability, and First Nations land rights. Learn more about Enbridge: https://www.enbridge.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Fri, August 23, 2024
167. Vin Jay: The Shocking Problem with Our Culture
Join Aaron and Vin Jay as they discuss the problem with mainstream music, trauma, marriage and the therapeutic journey behind his lyrics. Vin Jay is a dynamic rapper, musician, and philosopher, recognized for his powerful music that combines deep, introspective themes with high-octane energy, designed to inspire and motivate listeners to overcome challenges. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, August 20, 2024
166. Evan Solomon: Trump Assassination Attempt, The Deep State & Trust in Media
Aaron Pete and Evan Solomon delve into politics, discussing the impact of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump, Democratic unrest, the "deep state," balancing freedom and security, and trust in government funded media. Evan Solomon is a seasoned Canadian journalist and political commentator, known for his work with GZERO Media and as a former host of major political programs on CBC and CTV, where he provided in-depth analysis on national and international affairs. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, August 14, 2024
165. Steve Paikin: Can We Trust Government Funded News?
Aaron Pete speaks with Steve Paikin on the role of curiosity in journalism, the evolving media landscape, and the impact of media biases on political coverage in Canada, along with invaluable advice for aspiring leaders. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, August 12, 2024
164. Dr. Julian Somers: Tackling Addiction, Homelessness & Political Hurdles
Aaron Pete discusses the key to addressing addiction and homelessness with acclaimed clinical psychologist Dr. Julian Somers, exploring his transformative work, the clash between science and politics, and potential solutions inspired by global strategies. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, July 02, 2024
163. Dr. Shahana Alibhai: How to Improve Health Care, Anxiety, Depression & Nutrition
Join us as Dr. Shahana Alibhai shares her journey from physician to patient, battling postpartum OCD, anxiety, and depression, and advocating for a compassionate, empathetic approach to mental health in healthcare. Dr. Shahana Alibhai is a family physician and mental health expert, is renowned for her TEDx talk on "Emotional Literacy for Better Mental Health" and her work with organizations like UBC and Scotiabank, blending her personal postpartum anxiety journey with her professional expertise. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Thu, June 27, 2024
162. Carrielynn Victor: Indigenous Wisdom and Nature in Art
Experience the vibrant celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day with a live recording from our Art Show Interview, where Carrielynn Victor brilliantly connects art, nature, and cultural heritage through ecosystem restoration, intergenerational connections, and storytelling. Carrielynn Victor is an artist, plant harvester, author, storyteller, mother, conservationist, fisher and medicines practitioner. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, June 17, 2024
161. Nigel Biggar: Was Colonialism All Bad? Reconciling the Past
Can colonialism be morally justified? Nigel Biggar explores the distinctions between colonialism and colonization, motivations behind European expansion, Sir John A. Macdonald's legacy, and the ongoing impact on First Nations people, including the controversial claims of unmarked graves at Kamloops Residential School, while advocating for integrity and humility in confronting our colonial past. Nigel Biggar is a retired professor of ethics and author known for his work on the moral complexities of colonialism, including his book "Colonialism: A Moral Reckoning. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, June 11, 2024
160. Stephen Yeung: McDonald's Business Owner on Hiring, Scaling, & Workplace Culture
Ever wondered how to effectively manage young staff in today's challenging job market? Join us as Stephen Yeung, a seasoned entrepreneur operating five McDonald's locations, shares his insights on fostering a positive workplace culture, bridging generational gaps, and maintaining a productive and respectful environment. Stephen Yeung is a McDonald's owner-operator known for balancing work, community involvement, and employee care. Transitioning from managing gas stations to five McDonald's locations, he fosters a positive workplace culture and supports new hires with continuous communication. Recognized for exceptional customer service, Stephen is committed to making impactful decisions, benefiting the community through initiatives like McHappy Day, Ronald McDonald House and local fundraising. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, June 04, 2024
159. Jonathan Kay: The Shocking Evolution of Political Correctness
Jonathan Kay and Aaron Pete explore the balance between cultural sensitivity and open dialogue. The two focus on political correctness and Indigenous issues, delving into the history, language, and current debates surrounding these topics. Jonathan Kay is a Toronto-based editor for Quillette, a host of the Quillette podcast, and author of the Deeply Problematic and Let's Get Board substacks. Follow him on X at @jonkay . Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, May 28, 2024
158. Bill Deresiewicz: Are Universities on the Wrong Track?
Bill Deresiewicz, a former Yale professor, and Aaron Pete discuss how liberal arts degrees impact personal development, the challenges in higher education, and the importance of diverse perspectives and mentors in building a democratic society. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, May 20, 2024
157. Kris Sims: Impact of Carbon Tax & Wealth Tax on Citizens and the Economy
Kris Sims and Aaron Pete explore the real-life impacts of the carbon tax, scrutinize government rebates and exemptions, and evaluate the broader economic consequences, while also discussing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's financial strategies and Pierre Poilievre's perspectives on fiscal policy and accountability. Kris Sims, the Alberta Director for the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, is a BCIT journalism graduate with a rich career history in radio, Parliament Hill, and CTV, passionate about advocating for taxpayers' rights. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, May 14, 2024
156. Colette Trudeau: Strategies on How to Build a Strong Team
Aaron Pete sits down with Colette Trudeau to discuss how to build strong teams, leadership strategies, and fostering a healthy workplace culture. They delve into Colette's deep connection to her Métis heritage and her passion for music, underscoring the importance of cultural awareness. Colette Trudeau is a Métis singer-songwriter and the CEO of Métis Nation British Columbia, known for her leadership in advancing Métis culture and rights, as well as her diverse music career spanning rock to EDM. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, May 07, 2024
155. Michael Moses: Confronting Residential School Denialism & Fostering Unity in Politics
City councillor Michael Moses confront Indian Residential School denialism and discusses the book "Grave Error: How the Media Misled Us". He also talks about his work advocating for marginalized voices in Williams Lake, highlighting the crucial role of diverse perspectives in democratic governance and the ongoing dialogue on Indigenous rights and reconciliation in a conversation with Aaron Pete. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, April 22, 2024
154. Aiemann Zahabi: How to Develop Mental Toughness & Defy the Odds with a UFC Fighter
Aiemann Zahabi reveals how to develop grit and determination, the spiritual and physical benefits of observing Ramadan, his impressive 4-fight winning streak in the UFC, and his latest endeavour with a new YouTube channel. Aiemann Zahabi is a Canadian bantamweight fighter in the UFC, celebrated for his string of early first-round victories and as the sibling of Tristar Gym's famed head coach, Firas Zahabi. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Thu, April 11, 2024
153. Michael Geist: Problems with the Online Harms Act, TikTok Ban & Antisemitism in Canada
Michael Geist delves into the troubling rise of antisemitism in Canada, highlighting the challenges Jewish students encounter in academia and its broader societal effects. He also scrutinizes the Online Harms Act, assessing its ability to curb online hate while maintaining free expression, all discussed alongside host Aaron Pete. Michael Geist is a prominent Internet and e-commerce law expert. He holds the Canada Research Chair in Internet and E-commerce Law at the University of Ottawa. An advocate for digital rights, Geist influences public policy on privacy, copyright, and access to information. His work, featured in national and international publications and his widely-read blog, positions him as a key figure in shaping discussions on internet governance and digital freedoms. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, April 08, 2024
152. Vin Jay: How to Craft Impactful Music That Motivates & Inspires Listeners
Vin Jay offers guidance on crafting music that deeply connects with audiences, advising fellow artists on strategic releases, the significance of emotional authenticity in songs, and how producing high-quality music can significantly elevate an artist's career. Vin Jay, a dynamic hip-hop artist, captivates audiences with his raw storytelling and impactful lyrics, rising to fame with his hit song "Mumble Rapper vs. Lyricist," a testament to his strategic and resonant approach to music. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, April 02, 2024
151. Nancy Robertson: Acting, Corner Gas and Comedy
Nancy Robertson takes us through her acting journey, highlighting her initial struggles leading up to her iconic role in Corner Gas. She delves into the show's unique chemistry and her own personal development in a conversation filled with nostalgia and laughs, hosted by Aaron Pete. Nancy Robertson, celebrated for her role as Wanda in "Corner Gas," Canada's most-watched sitcom, has earned a Gemini Award, Canadian Comedy Award nominations, and Leo Awards for her versatile performances across TV, film, and stage, including a gender-transforming role in "Alice" and critical acclaim for "The Delicate Art of Parking." Recently, she shone as Billie in AMC's "Lucky Hank," adding to her impressive legacy and recognition as one of MORE Magazine's "Most Compelling Women." Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, March 25, 2024
150. Kylie Bartel & Chris Bertram LIVE: Boosting Performance with Mental Health Insights
Marking 150 episodes and four transformative years, this anniversary episode of 'Bigger Than Me' delves deep with mental health expert Kylie Bartel and features Dr. Chris Bertram's insights on the interplay of nature, trauma, and peak performance, highlighting our journey from resilience to growth. Tune in for a riveting live discussion in Studio C at Cowork Chilliwack, as we explore the intricacies of therapy, the influence of the natural world, and the psychology behind achieving flow states, culminating in an interactive audience Q&A. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, March 19, 2024
149. Mike Malott: Inside the Heart of a UFC Fighter, Grit, and the Pursuit of a Dream
Discover the relentless spirit of UFC welterweight Mike Malott in our latest episode, where he reveals his journey from a hopeful youth to a seasoned fighter, emphasizing perseverance, support, and the art of rising after a fall, in a conversation with host Aaron Pete. Mike Malott, who initiated his martial arts training at the young age of 12, has risen through the ranks to establish himself as a prominent contender in the UFC welterweight division. Since embarking on his professional career in 2012, Malott has distinguished himself with a series of notable victories, showcasing a dynamic fighting style that has captivated fans and analysts alike. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, March 05, 2024
148. Chief Willie Sellers: Indian Residential Schools, Indigenous Leadership & Reconciliation
Chief Willie Sellers of Williams Lake First Nation discusses Indian Residential Schools, the harmony of cultural preservation with community advancement and reflects on his reconciliation efforts, in an enlightening interview with Aaron Pete. Willie Sellars, from Williams Lake, BC and a member of the Williams Lake First Nation (WLFN) of the Secwepemc Nation, became one of the youngest elected Councillors in WLFN history at 24 and, after a decade on Council, was elected Chief in 2018. Previously a Wildland Firefighter and later the Special Project Coordinator in the WLFN Economic Development Department, Willie managed new business initiatives and community consultations. He is also an award-nominated author of "Dipnetting with Dad" and the upcoming "Hockey with Dad." Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, February 27, 2024
147. Jean Teillet: Weaving the Narrative of Métis Culture, Rights, and Resilience
Join us as we explore Métis culture with Jean Teillet, an influential advocate and descendant of Louis Riel, who intertwines her legal expertise and artistic passion in championing Indigenous rights. In this conversation, Jean delves into the Métis' rich history, their fight for recognition, and how recent legal victories are shaping their path toward self-governance, offering insights into her book, "The Northwest is Your Mother," and the vibrant future of Métis advocacy. Jean Teillet, now retired and named Emeritus Counsel at Pape Salter Teillet LLP, is renowned for her pivotal role in Indigenous rights litigation, including R. v. Powley, and her contributions to Métis and First Nation communities, along with receiving numerous accolades such as the Governor General’s Meritorious Service Cross and authoring "The North-West is Our Mother." Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, February 20, 2024
146. Evan Solomon: Political Narratives, Media & The Importance of Debate
Join Aaron Pete and Evan Solomon as they delve into the transformative role of media, exploring the evolution from the printing press to digital platforms, the power of narrative control, and the dynamics of Canadian political discourse, highlighting Solomon's transition from digital media pioneer to influential geopolitical analyst and the critical role of curiosity and debate in molding society. Evan Solomon, a seasoned journalist and author with a career spanning digital media, political reporting, and television hosting, including CTV's Power Play and Question Period, now leads GZERO Media and contributes to Eurasia Group's management. His work, from hosting national political programs to writing award-nominated books on energy and food crises, reflects a deep engagement with global politics and societal issues, balanced by personal interests in music, sports, and family life as a McGill University alumnus and parent. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, February 13, 2024
145. Candice Malcolm: Crime, Politics and Indian Residential Schools Debate
Candace Malcolm, founder of True North Media, discusses independent media, politics, drug decriminalization, and gender representation, advocating for nuanced discourse on Indian Residential Schools and debating the topic with Aaron Pete. Candice Malcolm, an investigative journalist, best-selling author, and nationally syndicated Toronto Sun columnist, is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of True North. With a history of reporting from conflict zones and uncovering significant terrorist networks within Canada, her work has garnered global attention. A Vancouver, BC native, Candice holds two master's degrees and resides in Toronto with her family. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, February 06, 2024
144. Dr. Sara Kuburic: Therapist on Trauma, Self-Care & Mindfulness
Sara Kuburic shares her journey of self-discovery, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, personal responsibility, and the impact of key questions on personal growth, while host Aaron Pete moves the conversation towards understanding the essence of living a fulfilling life. Dr. Sara Kuburic, also known as the @millennial.therapist on Instagram, is an existential psychotherapist, consultant, and author of the book IT'S ON ME. A former columnist for USA Today, she is driven by a passion to help individuals embrace change and lead lives that are authentic, free, and meaningful. Drawing on her own experiences of living through wars and navigating complex relationships, Sara is deeply invested in exploring and understanding the intricacies of human existence. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, January 30, 2024
143. Vassy Kapelos: Challenging Politicians in CTV Power Play Interviews
Canadian journalist Vassy Kapelos joins Aaron Pete to discuss her path into journalism, passion for politics, the importance of balanced reporting, and her expertise in navigating challenging interviews with political figures. Vassy Kapelos, based in Ottawa, is currently hosting CTV's "Question Period," "Power Play," and the national radio program "The Vassy Kapelos Show" on iHeartRadio Canada. With a career highlighted by multiple awards including two Canadian Screen Awards, she has extensive experience in political coverage, having previously hosted CBC's "Power & Politics" and served as Global News’ Ottawa Bureau Chief. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, January 23, 2024
142. Bingx: Confronting Demons and Forging Artistic Identity Through Music
Bingx shares his raw and harrowing journey to musical success with host Aaron Pete. From overcoming personal struggles with Tourette's, OCD, and addiction, to transforming these challenges into artistic strength. Bingx takes us on a walkthrough of his audio engineering techniques and shares key insights on the complexities of the music industry. Seattle-born rapper and vocalist Bingx, also known as Chanler Hendrickson, melds his love for hip-hop's lyrical finesse with the deep emotions of grunge in his music, drawing influence from a diverse range of artists including 50 Cent and Third Eye Blind. Bingx has over 100,000 monthly listeners on Spotify and over 27,000 subscribers on YouTube. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, January 16, 2024
141. Dan Oostenbrink: Regenerative Farmer Gives Shocking Gardening Tips!
Join Dan Oostenbrink and Aaron Pete on a journey into sustainable farming, exploring the intersection of biodiversity, soil health, and community-driven agriculture for a healthier world. Dan Oostenbrink, co-operator of The Local Harvest Market, combines his educational background with a passion for regenerative farming, producing a diverse range of crops using no-till methods. His decade-long journey in organic gardening is driven by a commitment to healthy soils, nutrient-dense foods, and the belief in building resilient communities through sustainable agriculture. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, January 09, 2024
140. Chief Clarence Louie: Osoyoos Indian Band is Creating Jobs & Making Money
Discover the secrets of economic success of the Osoyoos First Nation with Chief Clarence Louie and host Aaron Pete. Chief Louie delves into the history of Native people's work ethic, leadership, tradition, and modern entrepreneurship. Chief Clarence Louie is the Chief of the Osoyoos First Nation in British Columbia, renowned for his transformative leadership in Indigenous economic development. A visionary leader, he has been instrumental in fostering entrepreneurship and self-reliance within his community, emphasizing the importance of hard work and cultural preservation. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, January 02, 2024
139. Aiemann Zahabi: The UFC, New Years Resolutions & Weight Loss
Join Aaron Pete as he sits down with UFC bantamweight Aiemann Zahabi. Fresh from his victory at UFC 289 in Vancouver, Zahabi reveals his combat strategies and discusses his approach to personal goals. Tune in to hear about effective New Year's resolutions, innovative weight loss methods, the benefits of fasting and cold plunges, and maintaining motivation. This episode is a unique blend of professional sports insights and personal wellness advice. Join the Juji Club: https://www.jujiclub.com/en-ca Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, December 19, 2023
138. Special Holiday Episode: Unwrapping the Meaning of Christmas with Tim Srigley
Tune in for a holiday-packed episode where we journey through eggnog aging with "sugar bug" Aaron Pete, reminisce about our fiery hot sauce challenge, delve into the heart of Christmas traditions and the meaning of gift-giving, share personal stories about supporting cancer research, and wrap up with an animated chat on Christmas movies, potential fasting challenges, and the intricacies of Christmas music, all steeped in the true spirit of the festive season. Help Tim Raise Money for Cancer Research: https://tourdecure.ca/participant/1736/1053/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, December 12, 2023
137. JZAC - Independent Hip-Hop Artist on Lyricism, Creativity and Business
Aaron chats with JZAC about his love for hip-hop, Polish background, and how he comes up with his lyrics. They dive into how wrestling mixes with music, chat about what freestyle in hip-hop really means, and get into the nitty-gritty of making music while juggling the creative and business sides. Plus, they'll talk about JZAC's album 'It's Still Real To Me, Damn It!' Jerry Zajac, known as JZAC, is a New Hampshire-born rapper with Polish immigrant roots. Renowned for his authentic storytelling and sharp lyrics, he first gained online fame with his viral freestyles in 2016. Now a prominent figure in hip-hop and based in Los Angeles, JZAC has produced four albums, with his latest work, "It's Still Real To Me, Damn It," highlighting his dynamic artistry. Listen to JZAC here: https://www.youtube.com/@JZACMusic Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, December 05, 2023
136. Bigger Than Me Podcast Live Show with Singer-Songwriter Rebecca Sichon
Join host Aaron Peep and singer-songwriter Rebecca Sichon from Mission, BC, as they explore her musical journey, the challenges of the music industry, and enjoy a live performance in a conversation that promises to inspire and enlighten. Canadian singer-songwriter Rebecca Sichon showcases her expanding musical talent in her 2021 EP "Dream Book," where her love for modern R&B and exceptional vocal skills shine through in tracks like “Innocence” and “Our Garden.” A rising star since childhood, Rebecca's journey has seen her evolve from singing "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" at age five to winning multiple Fraser Valley Music Awards and collaborating with notable artists, poised for a breakout in the global music scene. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, November 28, 2023
135. Matthew James - A Beginners Guide to Drinking Whisky
Have you ever wondered what makes whiskey so distinct and unique? Let me take you on a trip down the whiskey lane with none other than Matthew James of Whiskey on the West Coast. This episode, packed with insights and intriguing facts, peels back the layers on the world of whiskey, starting from the stories behind Matthew's successful YouTube channel. As we journey through the rich history of whiskey, we uncover the intricate differences between bourbon and whiskey, Canadian whiskey, and the complexities of rye whiskey varieties. We delve into whiskey production practices and how they influence the taste of this timeless drink. From discussing whiskey filtration to tasting various brands, the episode holds a wealth of information for both seasoned whiskey enthusiasts and novice sippers. Matthew enlightens us about the regulations around Canadian whiskey and how the process of chill filtering impacts the quality of the drink. The latter half of the conversation focuses on the influence of marketing on whiskey and the importance of not judging a whiskey by its label. Does the soil type where the whiskey is grown affect its flavor? Can celebrity endorsements sway perceptions? As we mull over these questions, Matthew provides a hands-on guide on how to properly taste and enjoy whiskey. We also debate the concept of terroir in whiskey, testing its validity. Whether you're a whiskey aficionado or a curious beginner, this episode takes you one step closer to becoming a true whiskey connoisseur. So, pour yourself a glass and join us. Cheers! Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, November 21, 2023
134. Ariel Helwani - Sports Journalism, Combat Sports and the UFC
Ariel Helwani, the premier voice in sports journalism, along with Aaron, delves into insights from his career, the art of storytelling, and the motivating journeys of prominent fighters like Corey Sandhagen, Israel Adesanya, Alexander 'The Great' Volkanovski, and Conor McGregor, all while emphasizing the importance of trust, resilience, and emotional connection in the world of sports reporting. Ariel Helwani is a prominent Canadian sports journalist celebrated for his extensive coverage of the UFC and the broader world of MMA. Born in Montreal, Ariel has been at the forefront of MMA journalism, hosting shows like "The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani." His insightful interviews and in-depth analyses have solidified his reputation as a leading voice in the sport. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, November 14, 2023
133. Angela Murphy - How to Support Children's Mental Health
School psychologist and "Wonder Pup" series author Angela Murphy discusses the overlooked struggles of the 'class clown', the rise in student mental health concerns post-pandemic, and the benefits of animal therapy and self-care, drawing from her personal experiences and insights from her books. Angela Murphy is an author, educator, school psychologist and Complex Trauma Resource's Director of School Programs. Angela completed an undergraduate degree in Psychology from Dalhousie University, and later completed a B.Ed. degree from the University of Calgary (U of C). Next, she completed a Master's degree in Child and Applied Psychology from the U of C. Angela brings expansive knowledge from her work over the past 16 years in schools, 13 years in Indigenous communities, and the past 6 years working from a trauma informed lens. Order the "Wonder Pup" books on Amazon.ca Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, November 07, 2023
132. Rav Arora - Race, Religion, Free Speech & Interviewing Jordan Peterson
Independent journalist Rav Arora joins us to challenge mainstream views on white privilege, discuss his journey from India to Canada, and address topics ranging from historical injustices, the Canadian media's decline to the COVID vaccine debate and the impact of psychedelics on mental health with host Aaron Pete. Rav Arora is an essayist and independent journalist writing on Substack. Passionate about challenging mainstream views, he writes extensively on civil liberties, free speech, pharmaceutical drugs, and psychedelic therapy. His thought-provoking pieces can be found on "The Illusion of Consensus" Substack, as mentioned on The Joe Rogan Experience. Rav's insights have been showcased on renowned podcasts, including conversations with luminaries like Jordan Peterson, Russell Brand and Ben Shapiro. Subscribe to Rav Arora: https://www.illusionconsensus.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Thu, November 02, 2023
131. Dr. Amanda McCormick: Youth Crime & Domestic Violence
Dr. Amanda McCormick discusses youth crime, systemic racism, intimate partner violence, and the complexities of gambling addiction, all within the framework of the criminal justice system. Dr. Amanda McCormick is an Associate Professor at the University of the Fraser Valley, specializing in Criminology and Criminal Justice. She is deeply involved in research on policing strategies, family violence, and at-risk youth, among other public safety issues. With over 30 research projects and numerous publications to her name, she also actively participates in committees focused on domestic violence awareness. Dr. McCormick teaches various courses and is currently working on several research projects centered on intimate partner violence. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, October 30, 2023
130. Tara Henley: The Polarization of Media & The Affordability Crisis
Acclaimed journalist Tara Henley dives into heated discussions on Canadian journalism, scrutinizing the Online News Act, media polarization, Big Tech's influence, and the future of journalistic integrity, all while exploring solutions for restoring public trust and fostering a more equitable and accountable media landscape in Canada. Tara Henley, an acclaimed Canadian journalist and author of the bestseller "Lean Out: A Meditation on the Madness of Modern Life," boasts a versatile 20-year career across various media platforms, including TV, radio, and print. With experience as a producer at CBC Radio and contributions to renowned publications like The Guardian and The Los Angeles Times, she is a respected voice in journalism, currently contributing to the Globe and Mail and hosting a popular Substack newsletter and podcast on heterodox thought. Follow her on Substack: https://tarahenley.substack.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, October 24, 2023
129. Benjamin Perrin: Do 'Tough on Crime' Policies Work? How to Fix the Criminal Justice System
Professor Benjamin Perrin, author of "Indictment: The Criminal Justice System on Trial," challenges 'tough on crime' policies, highlights systemic flaws, and explores solutions to reimagine a justice system that heals rather than punishes with host Aaron Pete. Benjamin Perrin is a professor at the Peter A. Allard School of Law at the University of British Columbia. He has served in the Prime Minister’s Office as in-house legal counsel and lead policy advisor on criminal justice and public safety. He was also a law clerk at the Supreme Court of Canada. He is the national best-selling author of Overdose: Heartbreak and Hope in Canada’s Opioid Crisis (Penguin Random House, 2020). His latest book and podcast is Indictment: The Criminal Justice System on Trial (University of Toronto Press). Order Indictment Here: https://utorontopress.com/9781487533731/indictment/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, October 16, 2023
128. BRENT BUTT: Corner Gas, Comedy & his Novel 'HUGE'
Canadian creator Brent Butt shares his transition from rural life to creating the iconic sitcom Corner Gas. Aaron and Brent's conversation navigates through his work on TV, the nuances of his novel 'HUGE', reflections on creativity, and the nature of humour, offering a mix of entertainment and insight for fans and budding creators alike. Brent Butt, originating from Tisdale, Saskatchewan, rapidly rose through the ranks of the comedy world, ultimately creating the internationally recognized and acclaimed sitcom, Corner Gas. His versatility is evident as he successfully branched into various mediums, including films and animation, securing his status as one of Canada's multifaceted talents. With notable projects like Corner Gas: The Movie, Corner Gas: Animated Hiccups and No Clue under his belt, his influence in the entertainment industry continues to grow. His debut novel, HUGE, symbolizes the extension of his creative horizon, which is available now! Grab your copy of HUGE: https://linktr.ee/brentbuttbooks Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
S3 E5 · Wed, October 11, 2023
5. EQ in Workplace & Career Advancement | Emotional Intelligence Explained
In the final episode, Aaron and Carolyn explore the art of self-leadership, navigating the evolving job market, dissecting leadership styles, and offering insights on remote working, bravery in career advancement, and the importance of emotional intelligence in daily life. Join host Aaron Pete on the Bigger Than Me Podcast for an enlightening Emotional Intelligence mini-series with renowned expert Carolyn Stern. In this 5-part series, we'll delve into why EQ matters and how it affects you, your family, and your workplace. Get ready to explore the various facets of Emotional Intelligence and enhance your life in meaningful ways! Learn more about Carolyn Stern: https://carolynstern.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
S3 E4 · Mon, October 09, 2023
4. Surviving the Holidays & Navigating Family Conflict | Emotional Intelligence Explained
Carolyn Stern provides an essential holiday survival guide, as we delve into family dynamics, boundaries, meaningful gift-giving, and emotional intelligence to help you navigate festive gatherings with enjoyment and less stress. Join us for the fourth instalment of this mini-series. Join host Aaron Pete on the Bigger Than Me Podcast for an enlightening Emotional Intelligence mini-series with renowned expert Carolyn Stern. In this 5-part series, we'll delve into why EQ matters and how it affects you, your family, and your workplace. Get ready to explore the various facets of Emotional Intelligence and enhance your life in meaningful ways! Connect with Carolyn Stern: https://carolynstern.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
S3 E3 · Sat, October 07, 2023
3. How to Overcome Triggers & Become Resilient | Emotional Intelligence Explained
In the third edition of this series, Emotional Intelligence Expert Carolyn Stern shares insights on the importance of facing adversity, balancing curiosity and judgment, and how to develop emotional resilience to achieve a fulfilling life. Join host Aaron Pete on the Bigger Than Me Podcast for an enlightening Emotional Intelligence mini-series with renowned expert Carolyn Stern. In this 5-part series, we'll delve into why EQ matters and how it affects you, your family, and your workplace. Get ready to explore the various facets of Emotional Intelligence and enhance your life in meaningful ways! Learn more about Carolyn Stern: https://carolynstern.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
S3 E2 · Thu, October 05, 2023
2. How to Develop Confidence, Independence & Leadership Skills | Emotional Intelligence Explained
In the second episode of the series, emotional intelligence expert Carolyn Stern discusses the dynamics of independence, interdependence, and emotional growth. Tune in for a captivating exploration that promises fresh perspectives on self-reliance, resilience, and personal development! Join host Aaron Pete on the Bigger Than Me Podcast for an enlightening Emotional Intelligence mini-series with renowned expert Carolyn Stern. In this 5-part series, we'll delve into why EQ matters and how it affects you, your family, and your workplace. Get ready to explore the various facets of Emotional Intelligence and enhance your life in meaningful ways! Learn more about Carolyn Stern: https://carolynstern.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
S3 E1 · Tue, October 03, 2023
1. What is EQ and Why Does it Matter? | Emotional Intelligence Explained
Aaron and Carolyn Stern delve headfirst into the profound significance of emotional intelligence, taking the conversation beyond textbook definitions to real-life experiences and effects. By accurately identifying, understanding, expressing, and managing emotions, the two unravel the power it harnesses in reshaping our framework. Join host Aaron Pete on the Bigger Than Me Podcast for an enlightening Emotional Intelligence mini-series with renowned expert Carolyn Stern. In this 5-part series, we'll delve into why EQ matters and how it affects you, your family, and your workplace. Get ready to explore the various facets of Emotional Intelligence and enhance your life in meaningful ways! Learn more about Carolyn Stern: https://carolynstern.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Thu, September 28, 2023
127. Jessica McDiarmid: The Highway of Tears, Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women & Reconciliation
Jessica McDermott discusses her book "Highway of Tears," which illuminates the pressing call for justice, understanding, and societal reform for National Truth and Reconciliation Day. She delves into topics such as the Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls Inquiry, racism and pathways to reconciliation. Jessica McDiarmid is a Canadian journalist who has worked across North America and Africa, writing for publications such as the Toronto Star , Chatelaine, the Associated Press, Maisonneuve , the Harvard Review and many others. Her first book, Highway of Tears , was a finalist for the 2019 RBC Taylor Prize and the BC/Yukon Book Prize. Learn more: https://jessicamcdiarmid.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
S2 E5 · Sat, September 23, 2023
Taste of Abby: Discover the Astonishing Impact of Bees
Dive into the buzzing world of beekeeping with Judy and Mike Campbell as they share their transformation from federal public servant and educator to passionate bee guardians, explore the environmental significance of bees, unveil the diverse range of hive-derived products like honey, candles, and mead that you can find at Campbell's Gold Honey Farm & Meadery. Welcome to the Taste of Abby podcast mini-series! In this series, we'll explore Canada's largest farming community, connecting with farmers, creators, and restaurant owners. We'll dive into how they harvest from the land, strive towards sustainability, and strengthen our region. Join Aaron Pete as we deepen our connection to these lands and explore the tastes of Abby. Learn more: https://campbellsgold.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
S2 E4 · Thu, September 21, 2023
Taste of Abby: The Art of Making Craft Beer with Paul Sweeting
Listen in as Paul Sweeting takes us from his early days in a liquor store to becoming the owner of Ravens Brewing Company, where he crafts award-winning beer using locally-sourced ingredients. Welcome to the Taste of Abby podcast mini-series! In this series, we'll explore Canada's largest farming community, connecting with farmers, creators, and restaurant owners. We'll dive into how they harvest from the land, strive towards sustainability, and strengthen our region. Join Aaron Pete as we deepen our connection to these lands and explore the tastes of Abby. Ravens Brewing Website: https://ravensbrewing.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
S2 E3 · Tue, September 19, 2023
Taste of Abby: MLA Pam Alexis on the BC Floods, Food Security & Farmers
Prepare for an insightful chat with Pam Alexis, Minister of Agriculture and Food, as we delve into her transition from Mayor of Mission to an influential Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), explore her dedication to BC's diverse farming community, and discuss her commitment to ensuring food security. Welcome to the Taste of Abby podcast mini-series! In this series, we'll explore Canada's largest farming community, connecting with farmers, creators, and restaurant owners. We'll dive into how they harvest from the land, strive towards sustainability, and strengthen our region. Join Aaron Pete as we deepen our connection to these lands and explore the tastes of Abby. Learn more about MLA Pam Alexis: https://pamalexis.ca/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
S2 E2 · Sun, September 17, 2023
Taste of Abby: Improve Your Cooking with Chef Jeff Massey
Listen in as Aaron Pete engages in a fascinating conversation with Jeff Massey, co-owner and chef at Restaurant 62, exploring the vital role of local farming, the artistry of seasonal menus, the sourcing of local produce, and the complex craft of dish creation. Welcome to the Taste of Abby podcast mini-series! In this series, we'll explore Canada's largest farming community, connecting with farmers, creators, and restaurant owners. We'll dive into how they harvest from the land, strive towards sustainability, and strengthen our region. Join Aaron Pete as we deepen our connection to these lands and explore the tastes of Abby. Learn more about Restaurant 62: https://www.restaurant62.ca/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
S2 E1 · Fri, September 15, 2023
Taste of Abby: Amir Maan on Sustainable Strawberry Farming & Agritourism at Maan Farms
Tune in as Amir Mann, director and farmer at Mann Farms, walks us through his family's cutting-edge vertical farming system, their proactive approach to climate change, their enthusiasm for local produce, and their enduring love for Canadian agriculture. Welcome to the Taste of Abby podcast mini-series! In this series, we'll explore Canada's largest farming community, connecting with farmers, creators, and restaurant owners. We'll dive into how they harvest from the land, strive towards sustainability, and strengthen our region. Join Aaron Pete as we deepen our connection to these lands and explore the tastes of Abby. Learn more about Maan Farms: https://maanfarms.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, September 12, 2023
126. Doug Harris: Condominium Law, Strata Corporations & the Evolution of Urban Living
Peek behind the veil of condo ownership with esteemed guest, Professor Doug Harris. Together, Aaron and Professor Harris traverse through the evolution of condo ownership, from its 1960s beginnings to its modern-day role in urban living. Their conversation dives into the unique dynamics of condo living, exploring landlord-tenant relationships, co-ops, detached parcels, and the intricate legalities such as residential tenancy laws and strata corporation governance. They also examine the challenges municipalities face in providing rental housing, consumer protection in multi-unit developments, smoking rules, and Doug’s call for thoughtful housing policy. Douglas Harris, a professor at the Allard School of Law since 2001, has significantly contributed to property law and legal history, authoring award-winning books on Indigenous fisheries in British Columbia. After his call to the British Columbia bar in 1994 and playing in Canada's Olympic field hockey team, he pursued further education, earning LLM and PhD degrees in legal history, and later served in various administrative roles at UBC, receiving teaching awards. Currently, he's focusing on condominium property law, co-authoring a leading Canadian property law casebook, and fostering collaboration on law and cities through the Law & Cities Research Group. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, September 05, 2023
125. Roy Henry Vickers: First Nations Artist on Overcoming Trauma & Indigenous Wisdom
Join us for our 125th episode, as we dive into the richness of Indigenous wisdom, as revealed by our cherished guest, the acclaimed artist, Roy Henry Vickers. From his birthplace, the ancient village of Kitkatla, Roy Henry Vickers guides us through a narrative brimming with ancestral Indigenous wisdom. Aaron Pete's conversation with him explores not only timeless teachings but also his personal experiences. Aaron Pete and Roy Henry Vickers delve into his unique perspective as a colorblind artist, his battle with trauma, the struggles in sharing his art, and his path to recovery. Roy Henry Vickers is a renowned Canadian artist, born in June 1946, who has created a significant impact through his blend of traditional First Nations imagery and contemporary techniques. His art reflects his Tsimshian, Haida, and Heiltsuk descent and a profound connection to the land. In addition to his artistic achievements, Vickers is a public speaker on creativity, healing, and spiritual growth, and he has received honors such as the Order of British Columbia and the Order of Canada for his contributions to art and Indigenous rights. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, August 29, 2023
124. Dr. Teresa Liu-Ambrose: The Science of Healthy Aging
Join, Aaron Pete, and guest Teresa Liu-Ambrose, a renowned physical therapy professor at the University of British Columbia, as they delve into the vital importance of physical exercise, particularly for the elderly, and the essential roles that cardio, strength training, diet, and sleep hygiene play in maintaining overall health. From debunking common myths about melatonin and nightcaps to examining the effects of COVID-19 on the brains of aging adults, Teresa Liu-Ambrose provides insights on safe exercises that are key to preserving cognitive functions as we age. Dr. Teresa Liu-Ambrose, PhD, PT, Professor, is a physical therapist and a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Healthy Aging at the University of British Columbia, Department of Physical Therapy. She is Co-Director of the Centre for Aging SMART at Vancouver Coastal Health and is Director of Vancouver Falls Prevention Clinic. Dr. Liu-Ambrose’s research focuses on understanding the role of exercise in promoting cognitive and mobility outcomes in older adults. Her research findings have been implemented into clinical practice, community programs, and international practice guidelines or recommendations to promote healthy aging. She is a fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences and a member of The College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists, Royal Society of Canada. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Thu, August 24, 2023
123. Dana Tizya-Tramm: Former Chief Reflects on Indigenous Politics
Join today's Bigger Than Me episode with former Chief Dana Tizya-Tramm and host Aaron Pete as they journey through resilience, childhood trauma recovery, and leading community activism for climate change and justice. This enriching conversation explores Dana's connection with ancestry, the influence of indigenous governance, the complexities of indigenous justice, and the impact of climate change. Dana Tizya-Tramm, a prominent indigenous leader, has been honored for his service as a Former Chief and his current role as a Yukon school board trustee. His remarkable efforts in Yukon's education system, coupled with his staunch advocacy for indigenous rights and climate justice, have secured his position among the TIME 100, recognizing him as one of the world's most influential individuals. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, August 22, 2023
122. Amanda Peters: Mi'kmaq Author on Her Debut Novel "The Berry Pickers"
Prepare to be enchanted by the power of storytelling as Aaron sits down with Amanda Peters, an esteemed author and professor with a deep connection to her ancestral roots and culture. In this captivating discussion, Amanda shares her journey to becoming a writer and the importance of community and identity in her art. From her inspiring family support to an exclusive sneak peek into her innovative creative process behind her novel, "The Berry Pickers," Amanda's transformative approach to writing and inspiration drawn from a conversation with an artist will leave you spellbound. Amanda Peters is an author and serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of English and Theatre at Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, August 15, 2023
121. MP Joyce Murray: Liberal Government, Politics & Conservation
This week Aaron sits down with Member of Parliament Joyce Murray to explore her impactful journey. From her early work in reforestation to her pivotal roles in British Columbia Provincial politics and Canadian Federal Politics, this episode provides a deep insight into Joyce's dedication and service. Joyce Murray is a Canadian politician and Member of Parliament (MP) known for her diverse contributions to environmental stewardship and governance. Co-founder of a reforestation company in British Columbia, she transitioned into provincial politics, serving in various cabinet positions. Elected as an MP in 2008, Murray's dedication to sustainable development, climate change solutions, and community well-being has marked her as a significant figure within the Liberal Party. Her career illustrates a blend of entrepreneurial spirit and political leadership at both provincial and federal levels, reflecting a commitment to responsible environmental and social practices. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, August 08, 2023
120. Lorne Cardinal: Corner Gas, Acting & Indigenous Advocacy
We invite you to take a seat and get to know Lorne Cardinal - Cree community member, seasoned actor, dedicated director, and skilled producer. You'll be captivated as we journey through the intriguing world of acting, exploring Lorne's unique methods, from the Pachinko Clown Method to European style theatre training. The stage is set for an engaging discussion of Lorne's most recognized work - Corner Gas. Uncover the story behind his famous phrase “all right, exciting” and delve into the deep impact it has had on audiences across the nation. We also touch on the often overlooked challenge of typecasting and the emotional complexity of closing a chapter in one's career. The curtain falls as Lorne shares his plans for his YouTube channel, where he'll share stories from writers and poets who've made a mark on him. But it's not all about the spotlight. We also talk about the pressing issue of Indigenous rights and Lorne's own experiences. He shares his perspective on the struggle, the importance of generational involvement, and his hopes for the future. This episode is a journey through the life of a passionate storyteller and his impact on the world of acting. So sit back, relax, and let Lorne Cardinal guide you through a world where narrative and character come to life. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, August 01, 2023
119. Julian Peterson: Human Creativity, Artificial Intelligence & The Essay App
Discover the transformative power of the Essay App with its founder Julian Peterson in this Bigger Than Me Podcast episode. Uncover the tool's innovative features designed to enhance writing skills and critical thinking. Julian's guidance takes us through the app's conception, inspired by his renowned father, Dr. Jordan Peterson, and emphasizes the importance of human input in the creative process. Explore the art of clear articulation, writing aesthetics, and the intriguing parallels between writing and music. Gain valuable essay tips and insights into challenging preconceptions. Learn how to harness the Essay App's potential for a captivating journey through the world of words and ideas with Julian Peterson. Julian Peterson is a musician, software developer, entrepreneur, and founder of Essay App. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, July 25, 2023
118. Dr. Elizabeth Gow: How Many Birds Do Cats Kill?
Dr. Elizabeth Gow, a research scientist and environmental advocate, answers the question of how many birds cats kill. Delve into the delicate balance of ecosystems and the profound impact of human actions on nature. Marvel at the fascinating world of bird migration and explore the crucial need for conservation amid ecosystem threats. Engage in thought-provoking discussions on the unique role of cats in our environment and their influence on bird populations. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, July 18, 2023
117. Dr. Chris Bertram: How Flow States Enhance Performance & Ignites Creativity
What if you could tap into a state of mind where time distorts, creativity overflows, and optimal performance is the norm? This is the realm we explore with Dr. Chris Bertram, a leading authority in learning and performance optimization, as we unravel the enigma of flow states. Aaron and Chris dive headfirst into how this heightened state of consciousness influences athletes, creatives, and business executives alike, exploring its origins, characteristics, and the tantalizing way it bends our perception of time. Their discussion takes a fascinating turn as they examine the ways in which flow states could be the antidote to modern-day struggles like burnout, imbalanced work-life, and achieving peak performance under high-pressure environments. They delve into the science of mental preparation, emphasizing the need to build a skillset to effectively manage pressure. Chris and Aaron debate the potential of innovative technologies — like a drone controlled by the mind — to enhance performance further. And, introduce you to the concept of micro flow experiences; those fleeting moments of complete presence that can be a real game-changer in learning and performance. Finally, the two discuss how goal setting can fuel our passions and the role of technology in self-improvement. And, of course, they reinforce the importance of nurturing a growth mindset. So, if you're ready to navigate the fascinating terrain of human performance, flow states, and their potential for personal and professional growth, join them for this enlightening conversation! It’s time to unlock your potential and find your flow. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 3:35 Flow States Explained 10:17 How to Enter a Flow State 20:30 Micro Flow Experiences 33:58 Mental Performance & Breathing Techniques 45:36 Working with Canadian Golfer Nick Taylor 52:46 Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder 58:05 Parkinson's Disease 1:00:44 How to Get Motivated Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, July 04, 2023
116. Roy Ratnavel: From Prisoner to Executive - The Power of Resilience
Imagine being imprisoned at just 17 years old in a Sri Lanka prison camp and then miraculously finding your way to Canada, where you'd go on to become a successful executive. That's the incredible story of Roy Ratnavel, author of Prisoner Number 1056, who joins Aaron in this deeply inspiring conversation. Aaron Pete and Roy Ratnavel explore the importance of hard work, resilience, and staying true to one's values, as Roy shares his remarkable journey that highlights the power of hope and humanity even in the darkest situations. Together, Roy and Aaron discuss the challenges of populism, the strife and war that erupted in Sri Lanka, and the key message that people must see each other as humans and focus on our shared bonds. Roy reflects on his experiences in Canada, the kindness of strangers that touched his heart, and the importance of work-life balance, differentiating oneself in a competitive environment, and continuously striving for improvement. His story serves as a potent reminder of the potential for growth and success in the face of adversity. As the two wrap up our conversation, Roy shares his lessons in gratitude, balance, and recognizing the opportunities afforded to us in a free country. The endorsement of his book by Prime Minister Brian Mulrooney brings Roy's journey full circle, further solidifying the impact of his experiences on his outlook on life and the world around him. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, June 27, 2023
115. JP Siou: Pushing Physical and Mental Limits in the Spartan Death Race!
Imagine being pushed to your absolute physical and mental limits, only to discover you're capable of so much more than you ever thought possible. That's precisely the challenge our guest, personal trainer, nutrition coach, and mindset mentor JP Siou, is preparing to face in the upcoming Spartan Death Race! Listen as JP shares his inspiring story of transitioning from culinary arts to computer science and ultimately finding his true passion in the world of fitness. We explore his transformation from "super lazy" to a dedicated fitness professional and the importance of building trust and creating a safe space for clients to reach their full potential. Discover the incredible power of physical training in building resilience and how people often surprise themselves with their inner strength. Dive into the world of endurance racing as JP discusses his preparation for the upcoming Death Race, using David Goggins' philosophy to "callous his mind" and keep pushing forward. Learn how his experience is inspiring others to challenge themselves, overcome adversity, and unlock their inner greatness! Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, June 20, 2023
114. Bruce McIvor: Reconciliation, Land Acknowledgements & Pretendians
Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Bruce McIver, author of "Stand Off: Why Reconciliation Fails Indigenous People and How to Fix It," as we explore the question of whether land acknowledgments silence Indigenous voices. Delving into the power of humor in challenging the status quo, we discuss meaningful advocacy for Indigenous communities and the delicate balance of supporting well-intentioned allies. Highlighting the tendency to overlook real-world issues faced by Indigenous people, we unmask the ongoing effects of colonization and emphasize accountability for institutions and individuals. In addition, Aaron Pete and Bruce McIvor examine the harm caused by "pretendians" and the role of status cards in perpetuating discrimination against Indigenous people. Navigating the complex matter of former judge Mary Ellen Turpel-Lafond's actions and their impact on Indigenous communities, we invite you to tune in for an honest, informative, and thought-provoking discussion on the road to true reconciliation. Dr. Bruce McIvor is a renowned lawyer, historian, and author specializing in Aboriginal law and advocating for Indigenous rights. He is also an Adjunct Professor at the University of British Columbia and actively involved in organizations such as the Manitoba Métis Federation and Amnesty International Canada. Buy his book: https://brucemcivor.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Thu, June 15, 2023
113. HOT ONES HOT SAUCE CHALLENGE - Tim & Aaron Try To Survive SPICY WINGS!
Can you handle the heat? Join Tim Srigley and Aaron Pete as they pay homage to Sean Evans and his legendary Hot Ones interviews. Brace yourselves for a fiery adventure as they sample progressively spicier wings, making our way up to the scorching 2.5 Million Scoville Last Dab: Apollo Hot Ones Hot Sauce ! Listen in as they battle the heat, channeling the spirit of Sean Evans, all while asking each other questions and maintaining our cool. Will they conquer the challenge, or will the spice emerge victorious? But wait, there's more! On top of our spicy wing showdown, Tim shares exciting updates from his leather workshop, discussing recent collaborations with sponsors and his experiences with laser cutting. The two reminisce about our past encounters with Hot Ones and analyze its effect on the show's guests. Tune in to this sizzling episode and find out for yourself! Watch the full interview on YouTube here: https://youtu.be/Wq4OLIkxmwA Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, June 12, 2023
112. Vin Jay: A Musical Journey Filled With Courage, Growth & Personal Development
Join Aaron Pete in an exclusive interview with rapper Vin Jay as they dive into his latest project, the 'Karma' EP, and discuss the meaning behind the songs. They also touch on Vin Jay's collaboration with Enkay 47 on the powerful track 'Coward' while exploring topics of personal development, courage, and artistic growth. Vin Jay is a renowned American independent rapper and songwriter, widely recognized for his viral hit "Mumble Rapper vs. Lyricist" with over 20 million views on YouTube. With over 700K monthly listeners on Spotify and 350K YouTube subscribers, Vin Jay continues to captivate audiences with his music, focused on motivation, family, and living a meaningful life. From his album "Prophecy" addressing mental health and addiction to the collaborative project "High Frequency" with Bingx, and the introspective album "The Human Experience," Vin Jay's artistry never ceases to inspire. Discover his incredible singles on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Music today. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction to Vin Jay 1:40 Karma EP 3:45 Brain Dead by Vin Jay 9:50 Break Down by Vin Jay 18:27 Being Vulnerable in Music 24:01 These Days by Vin Jay 29:31 Killer Vin Jay feat. Krizz Kaliko 35:43 Vin Jay Going on Tour?? 40:51 What's Doubt by Vin Jay 46:01 Coward Enkay47 x Vin Jay 52:44 Tim's Take Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, June 05, 2023
111. Aiemann Zahabi: Canadian UFC Fighter on Fitness & Mental Health
Join host Aaron Pete in an exhilarating conversation with Aiemann Zahabi, the Canadian UFC fighter, as they delve into his highly anticipated upcoming fight in Vancouver, BC for the UFC 289 PPV card. Aiemann reveals valuable insights on what viewers can glean from MMA fighters and the profound lessons they can teach us. Discover Aiemann's perspective on the crucial role of physical, mental, and spiritual health in leading a meaningful life and uncover how Aiemann copes with nerves and manages the pressure leading up to such a high-stakes event. Aiemann Zahabi is a bantamweight division of the UFC and the younger brother of renowned Tristar Gym head trainer Firas Zahabi. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:24 How MMA Impacts Confidence 9:29 Weight Classes & Size 14:27 Physical Fitness 19:24 Mental Health & Wellness 30:03 Spiritual Wellbeing 34:17 UFC 289 in Vancouver Canada 44:15 Tim's Take Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, May 29, 2023
110. Camden Hutchison: Is Freedom of Expression in Danger? Law Professor Provides Key Insights
Aaron and Camden Hutchison discuss the fundamental concept of freedom of expression and its origins, as well as the ideas of influential thinkers such as John Locke and Sir John Stuart Mills. They explore why freedom of expression is essential and the various approaches democracies take to protect it. Additionally, the conversation turns to the controversial Canadian Bills C-11 and C-18, also known as the Online Streaming Act and Online News Act, respectively. Aaron and Camden present compelling counterarguments in favor of these bills while highlighting their potential risks and dangers. Camden Hutchison is an Associate Professor at the Peter A. Allard School of Law, where his research and teaching focus on corporate transactions, comparative corporate governance, and the historical development of corporate law. He has also published on corporate taxation and competition law. His current research focuses on the relationship between legal policy and entrepreneurship. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, May 22, 2023
109. Eddie Gardner: Secrets to Finding Peace Through Indigenous Wisdom
Join Aaron Pete as he sits down with Elder Eddie Gardner, also known as "T’it’elem Spath," to explore Indigenous culture, tradition, and the Halq'eméylem language. As a respected Indigenous Elder from the Skwah First Nation and an elder-in-residence with the University of the Fraser Valley, Mr. Gardner shares his knowledge and teachings with students and faculty. In this episode, he highlights the beauty of the Halq'eméylem language by breaking down a few words for the listeners, while also discussing opportunities for reconciliation with Indigenous people. As a knowledge keeper and protector of his Indigenous language, Mr. Gardner works with other Indigenous leaders to revitalize the language and ensure its practice. In addition to his advocacy work, he is committed to preserving and continuing the practice of Sweat Lodge ceremonies in the Fraser Valley. Tune in to learn from Mr. Gardner's insights on Indigenous culture and his tireless efforts to promote reconciliation and healing. Chapters: 0:00 What Does it Mean to Be an Elder? 9:33 Indigenous Culture & Science 13:55 Indigenous Creation Story 25:26 Lessons for Young People 30:45 Connection to the Ancestors 42:59 Indigenous Language 54:58 Teachings from the Land Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, May 15, 2023
108. Kylie Bartel: How to Approach Self Care & Family Conflict
Aaron and Kylie Bartel dive into the importance of self-care. They discuss what self-care is, how to create a self-care plan, and the value it can bring to your life. The two also tackle the tough topics of family conflict and political conflict and share tips on how to find peace in these challenging situations. Kylie is a counselling therapist and rider mindset coach with a passion for horseback riding and the great outdoors. She specializes in helping horseback riders overcome challenges such as pressure, stress, performance anxiety, and relational communication, empowering them to connect more deeply with their horses and achieve their goals. Chapters: 0:00 Self-Care & Coping Mechanisms 7:00 Unhealthy Coping Mechanisms 10:28 Epidemic of Loneliness 13:28 Responsibility 17:37 Finding Purpose 34:24 Treat Yourself Like Someone Worth Caring For 40:56 Tradition 48:39 How to Approach Family Conflict 54:18 How To Approach Political Conflict Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, May 08, 2023
107. Kris Sims: How Taxes Are Causing Financial Stress!
Aaron and Kris Sims delve into the topic of taxation, exploring its effects, advantages, and obstacles. During their conversation, they delve into municipal, provincial, and federal taxes. Kris, who is affiliated with the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, sheds light on certain taxes that adversely affect impoverished individuals, farmers, and entrepreneurs. Specifically, she highlights the Carbon Tax, Provincial Sales Tax, and Government Sales Tax (GST) and their ramifications. Kris Sims, a small-town British Columbia native, has been working and paying taxes since age 12, taking on jobs in horse stables, fast food joints, and gas stations. After attending BCIT's journalism school, she worked in radio on Vancouver Island and as a legislative assistant on Parliament Hill in Ottawa. She then joined News Talk Radio 580 CFRA as a producer, reporter, and anchor, ultimately becoming a journalist for the CTV Parliamentary Bureau. Sims was a founding reporter for Sun News Network, covering issues of personal liberty, big government, and the rights of small town and rural Canadians until the network shut down. She later served as a director of communications on Parliament Hill and as a senior producer for Evan Solomon at CFRA Radio. Sims is passionate about advocating for taxpayers' rights and has deep family roots in Alberta's rodeo country. When not busy with her work, she enjoys reading Ayn Rand with her husband and two children on a riverbank. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 3:09 Philosophy of Taxes 6:39 Origin of Taxes 11:14 Kris's Passion for Taxes 19:44 Municipal, Provincial & Federal Taxes 30:08 Political Parties & Taxes 37:07 Why Balance the Budgets? 44:06 Tax the Rich? 48:45 Canadian Taxpayers Federation 54:28 Standing Up For Taxpayer Rights 59:23 Tim's Take Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, May 01, 2023
106. Adriana Barton: The Surprising Benefits of Music
Aaron sits down with Adriana Barton, an author with extensive experience in music, to discuss how her years of intensive training have shaped her unique perspective on the transformative power of music. Together, they delve into Adriana's experiences as a musician, including injuries sustained while playing the cello, while also exploring the incredible benefits of music - from improving mental health to enhancing athletic performance and even combatting dementia. As the conversation deepens, Aaron and Adriana also highlight how music can reflect and shape cultural identity, providing a powerful insight into its global impact. Adriana Barton is a journalist and author of Wired for Music: A Search for Health and Joy Through the Science of Sound (Greystone Books, 2022). A former staff health reporter and copy editor at The Globe and Mail , she has written about medical research, neuroscience, visual arts, music and pop culture for publications including the Boston Globe , Reader’s Digest , Utne , Azure , Western Living and San Francisco Bay Guardian . She studied the cello for 17 years with teachers including international solo artist Antonio Lysy and former Cleveland Orchestra principal cellist Stephen Geber. Research projects have taken her to Syria, Jordan, India, Cuba, Zimbabwe and Brazil. Follow her at AdrianaBarton.com. Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:15 Playing the Cello 12:28 Injuries from Playing the Cello 21:10 Writing Wired For Music 34:51 Benefits of Music 46:20 Cultural Differences in Music 49:06 Order Wired For Music 51:16 Tim's Take Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, April 24, 2023
105. Enkay 47: Mental Health & Vulnerability in Hip-Hop
In a recent interview, Aaron and Enkay47 discuss the rapper's inspiring journey to success and his passion for hip-hop. Enkay47's musical genius is highlighted throughout the interview, particularly in his collaborations with Gawne on songs like "Basement" and "Twenty21," and his own tracks like "Is That What You Wanted," "Rainfall," and "In My Head." The conversation also touches on Enkay47's latest EP, "Fragments," and his upcoming song "No One Can Stop Me." Additionally, Enkay47 opens up about his most vulnerable tracks, "Shooting Star" and "I'm Not Okay," and how his music speaks to mental health and overcoming addiction. The interview leaves a positive and inspiring message about chasing your dreams and overcoming obstacles. Enkay47, born Nathan Kawaguchi, is an American rapper and songwriter from Silverton, Oregon. He began writing music at age 15 to make friends and was later inspired to help others through music. Enkay47's music spans multiple genres, including heartfelt acoustic tracks like "Once in a Lifetime" and raw underground bangers like "Ready for War II." His music has been featured in The Source, Hip Hop DX, and Billboard, and even appeared on "American Dad!" Enkay47 has released several successful albums, including "The Iron Curtain" and "My Own Lane," which charted highly on iTunes and Google Play. His music has received over 47 million streams and over 100 chart placements worldwide. With vulnerable subject matter and a unique style, Enkay47 is quickly making a name for himself as an up-and-coming artist in the music industry. Listen to Enkay 47: https://enkay47.com/ Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 2:55 Getting Started in Rap 9:46 Twenty21 Ft. Gawne 17:19 Is That What You Wanted? by Enkay 47 22:49 Rainfall by Enkay 47 25:42 In My Head Ft. Sarah Clearly 28:48 Safe by Enkay 47 35:19 Shooting Star by Enkay 47 40:47 I'm Not Okay by Enkay 47 44:47 Basement Ft. Gawne & Atlus 46:36 Demons by Enkay 47 50:16 Coward Ft. Vin Jay 56:28 Push by Enkay 47 1:00:26 One More Drink by Enkay 47 1:03:29 Love with Borderline by Enkay 47 1:09:09 No One Can Stop Me Ft. Durand The Rapper 1:18:48 Tim's Take Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, April 17, 2023
104. Quake Matthews: Canadian Rapper, Singer & Songwriter
Aaron Pete interviews Canadian rapper, singer, and songwriter Quake Matthews. They discuss Quake's journey into music, including his start in the rap battle scene. The conversation also covers Quake's latest album, "The Myth X," with a focus on specific tracks and their themes. Quake also gives insights into his latest single 'Try' and his upcoming album, "The Dark Room," which is expected to feature more introspective and personal lyrics, exploring themes of mental health, relationships, and self-discovery. Quake Matthews is a Canadian rapper, singer, and songwriter known for his introspective and socially conscious lyrics. Originally from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Quake began his music career in the early 2000s and has since released several critically acclaimed albums, including "The Book of Matthew," "Rap Music," and "Celebrate the Struggle." His latest album, "The Myth X," released in 2021, is a collaborative project with producer and DJ, DJ IV. The album showcases Quake's versatility as an artist, blending elements of hip-hop, trap, and electronic music to create a unique and engaging sound. With tracks like "I'm Fine" and "Way Up," "The Myth X" explores themes of personal growth, mental health, and the challenges of navigating the music industry. Check out Quake Matthews: https://www.quakematthews.com/ Chapters: 0:00 Introduction 1:41 Rap Battles 5:23 Representing Halifax 7:27 Working with Classified 11:46 Way Up ft. Snak the Rapper 16:30 Hailey's Comet Song 20:12 I'm Fine ft. Bishop Bigante & Ghetto 24:52 Try by Quake Matthews 31:13 Upcoming Album 'The Dark Room' 32:39 Tim's Take Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, April 11, 2023
103. Carolyn Stern: Emotional Intelligence, Leadership & Empathy
In an interview with Carolyn Stern, Aaron Pete delves into her personal experiences with emotions during her upbringing, how she developed a passion for emotional intelligence, and her perspective on what emotional intelligence entails. Additionally, he seeks Carolyn's guidance on practical steps individuals can take to enhance their EQ, as well as discusses her first book, The Emotionally Strong Leader: An Inside Out Journey to Transformational Leadership. Carolyn Stern is a renowned Emotional Intelligence and Leadership Development Expert, speaker, and professor who has spent over 20 years teaching emotional skills to both students and leaders. She used to view being labeled as 'emotional' as negative, but now realizes that expressing emotions is a powerful tool. Carolyn's courses and training programs have been adopted by top universities and corporations across North America, and she is passionate about helping individuals and companies connect authentically, communicate effectively, and thrive collectively through emotional intelligence. She believes that incorporating emotional intelligence into every aspect of our lives leads to more fulfilling and successful lives. Get a Copy of Carolyn's Book: https://carolynstern.com/book/ Chapters: 1:08 Carolyn's Background 7:50 Education 10:28 Overcoming Adversity 19:28 What is Emotional Intelligence 21:24 What is Empathy? 26:09 Self-Improvement 36:24 The Emotionally Strong Leader: An Inside Out Journey to Transformational Leadership 40:33 How Do We Find Peace? 47:40 How to Connect with Carolyn Stern 49:57 Tim's Take Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Thu, April 06, 2023
102. Michelle LeBaron: How to Resolve Conflicts & De-Escalate Political Conversations
In an interview with Aaron, Michelle Lebaron discussed her interest in conflict resolution, which stemmed from her background in law and mediation. She highlighted the challenges within family law, where people can become vicious towards one another. Michelle also shared her thoughts on how to de-escalate political and religious discussions, as well as how to approach negotiations. Michelle LeBaron is a highly acclaimed scholar specializing in conflict transformation, arts, and resilience. Her research focuses on two main areas: conflict across religious and worldview differences, and the role of arts in collective memory and reconciliation processes. As a recipient of a Wallenberg Fellowship, she worked with renowned visual artist Dr. Kim Berman and other artists to explore the role of arts in South African transitional justice. Michelle's books include Changing Our Worlds: Art as Transformative Practice and The Choreography of Resolution: Conflict, Movement and Neuroscience. Her work spans various disciplines and communities and includes initiatives like Dancing at the Crossroads and Enacting Resilience. Michelle is a sought-after keynote speaker and consultant on intercultural conflict resolution, the role of arts in fostering resilient leadership, and creative ways of engaging political and religious conflicts. With a background in law and mediation, Michelle has a wealth of experience in dispute resolution and multiculturalism. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, April 03, 2023
101. Justin Clancy: Musician Talks Addiction, Mental Health & Personal Growth
Aaron asked Justin Clancy about his journey into music and how it became a true passion for him. The two also discussed Clancy's evolution as a songwriter, the first book he attempted to write, his experience with losing friends to addiction, and his personal growth. Clancy's remarkable voice was also a topic of conversation. In addition, the interview covered Clancy's upcoming tour with Chris Webby and Ekoh, which will take them to various Canadian cities, including Victoria, Vancouver, Chilliwack, Kelowna, Calgary, and Edmonton. Justin Clancy is a rapper and musician from Boston, Massachusetts. He gained popularity with his introspective and emotionally-charged lyrics, which tackle issues such as mental health, addiction, and personal growth. Clancy's music often features soulful beats and melodic hooks, providing a backdrop for his honest and vulnerable storytelling. Clancy first gained attention with his debut single "The Bottom Line," which has since been streamed millions of times on Spotify. He has since released several EPs and albums, including "The Color Blue" and "The Saint of Lost Causes," showcasing his versatile style and unique perspective. With his authentic approach to music and dedication to his craft, Justin Clancy has established himself as a rising talent in the hip-hop industry. Chapters: 0:59 How Did Justin Clancy Get Started in Music? 6:09 Addiction, Sobriety & Recovery 11:34 Is It Good to Live with Regret? 15:44 Empty Space - Justin Clancy Ft. Slug (of Atmosphere) 22:08 Being an Independent Artist 26:40 Working with Chris Webby 30:13 Tour Coming to Canada! Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, March 29, 2023
100. Terrance McKinney: UFC Fighter Overcomes Adversity and Shares His Mindset
For the 100th episode of the Bigger Than Me Podcast, Aaron Pete interviewed Terrance McKinney. During their conversation, Aaron delved into various topics such as Terrance's beginnings in mixed martial arts, his triumph over adversities during his youth, his journey towards joining the UFC, and his unique mindset. Terrance McKinney is an American mixed martial artist who competes in the lightweight division of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC). He was born on September 3, 1995, in Spokane, Washington, USA. McKinney started training in martial arts at the age of 14, and he began his professional MMA career in 2018. He quickly gained attention for his knockout power and flashy style, earning the nickname "T.Wrecks." In June 2021, McKinney made his UFC debut on short notice and shocked the world by knocking out opponent Matt Frevola in just seven seconds, which tied the record for the fastest knockout in UFC lightweight history. He then went on to defeat Fares Ziam via unanimous decision in his second UFC bout. McKinney has a professional MMA record of 11 wins and 3 losses, with 7 wins by knockout and 3 by submission. He continues to be a rising star in the UFC lightweight division, and many fans and analysts are excited to see what he will accomplish in the future. Chapters: 5:01 Wrestling Background 6:58 How to Stay Motivated 8:26 Training with Kevin Holland 11:09 Developing a Healthy Mindset 13:59 The UFC 15:37 Starting a Family 17:42 How to Stay Positive 24:11 Aaron Reflects on 100 Episodes Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, March 20, 2023
99. Dr. Peter Ross: BC Floodwaters Contaminated with Cocaine & Splenda
Peter Ross discusses with interviewer Aaron Pete the report he co-authored that exposes the discovery of an "astounding diversity" of contaminants, including cocaine and pesticides, in the Sumas Lake region following the November 2021 floods, and also shares his thoughts on the impact of the report and his Healthy Waters Program. Raincoast Conservation in partnership with other organizations conducted a seven-week study which found 177 "new and emerging contaminants" in the water, including painkillers, pesticides, and sucralose, raising concerns about the health of fish habitat and the people in the area. The study identified excessive nutrients, metals, hydrocarbons, and pesticides as the primary pollutants of concern, highlighting the impacts of domestic and agricultural practices on the fish habitat in the region. Dr. Peter S. Ross is an ocean pollution expert who has published over 160 scientific articles and book chapters on pollutants in the oceans. He discovered that the region's killer whales are the most contaminated marine mammals in the world, and recently reported on the widespread distribution of microplastics in the NE Pacific and Arctic oceans. He is the founder of the Ocean Pollution Research Program and the Plastics Lab at Ocean Wise, and has advised industry, government, the G7, the European Union, and the OECD on priority pollutants and microplastics. Dr. Ross is now Senior Scientist at Raincoast Conservation Foundation, where he is developing a new community-oriented Healthy Waters Program. Read the full report: https://www.raincoast.org/reports/flood/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, March 15, 2023
98. Michael Geist: The Importance of Freedom of Expression Online
During their conversation, Aaron asked Michael about his experiences in law school, journey into teaching, and his podcast Law Bytes. Michael shared his passion for internet, e-commerce, and tech law, which led to a discussion about the potential impacts of two proposed Canadian legislation bills, Bill C-11 the Online Streaming Act and Bill C-18 The Online News Act. Dr. Michael Geist is a law professor at the University of Ottawa where he holds the Canada Research Chair in Internet and E-commerce Law and is a member of the Centre for Law, Technology and Society. He has obtained a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree from Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto, Master of Laws (LL.M.) degrees from Cambridge University in the UK and Columbia Law School in New York, and a Doctorate in Law (J.S.D.) from Columbia Law School. Dr. Geist serves on many boards, including Ingenium, Internet Archive Canada, and the EFF Advisory Board. He was appointed to the Order of Ontario in 2018 and has received numerous awards for his work including the Canadian Journalists for Freedom of Expression Vox Libera Award in 2018, the Kroeger Award for Policy Leadership and the Public Knowledge IP3 Award in 2010, the Les Fowlie Award for Intellectual Freedom from the Ontario Library Association in 2009, the EFF’s Pioneer Award in 2008, and Canarie’s IWAY Public Leadership Award for his contribution to the development of the Internet in Canada. More information can be obtained at http://www.michaelgeist.ca . Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, March 13, 2023
97. Linda Lebrun: How to Succeed on Substack with Substack Employee
Linda Lebrun, who works on writer partnerships at Substack, was interviewed by Aaron on the Bigger Than Me Podcast. During the interview, Aaron asked Linda about the founding of Substack, the services it provides, its uniqueness, and how people can get started. Linda shared her personal story and explained how Substack came into being. She emphasized the significance of using our voices and how Substack can help us increase our self-assurance and empower ourselves. Additionally, Linda offered valuable advice for individuals who aspire to initiate their own businesses and leverage their voice to make a positive impact in the world. Linda Lebrun is on the Writer Partnerships team at Substack, where she helps writers succeed and thrive. Her job is to cultivate Substack's relationships with experts who cover finance, investing, and economics topics. She helps them launch on Substack and develop successful publications so they can attain independence on their own terms. Prior to working at Substack, she worked in the investment industry, in traditional roles in portfolio management and the brokerage business. Substack is a platform that allows writers to create and publish newsletters, build an audience, and monetize their content through paid subscriptions. With a user-friendly interface, writers can distribute their content easily and use tools to grow their audience. The platform's subscription-based model allows writers to earn money directly from readers, while Substack takes a 10% fee on all subscription revenue. Substack also provides a range of services, including legal and financial advice, editorial support, and promotional tools. Overall, Substack provides a flexible and powerful platform for writers to build their brand, grow their audience, and monetize their content. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, March 06, 2023
96. Mike Squires: Inside the Mind of Music Producer!
Aaron asks Mike Squires about how he got started in the music industry, reaching 250,000 monthly listeners on Spotify, and his creative process. Aaron also inquires about how Mike selects artists to work with and how he creates songs. Mike Squires is a photographer with photos featured in Forbes, on music album covers, and Times Square billboards. He has released a photo book that tells the stories of his unforgettable experiences, including international tours with musicians like Watsky and Chris Webby. The book features intimate portraits, emotional moments, and infectious performances from various musicians. This prolific collection of photos captures years of intimate portraits, emotional moments, and infectious performances featuring musicians like Watsky, Chris Webby, Sammy Adams, Sean Kingston, Fabulous, French Montana, Mason Ramsey, The D’Amelios, Spose, Camila Recchio, and many more, transporting viewers to another time and place. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Thu, March 02, 2023
95. Philip Slayton: Identity Politics & Freedom in Canada
Aaron asks Philip Slayton about his experiences in law, and his thoughts on the profession. The two also discuss his books Lawyers Gone Bad: Money, Sex and Madness in Canada’s Legal Profession , Nothing Left to Lose: An Impolite Report on the State of Freedom in Canada , and Antisemitism: An ancient hatred in the age of identity politics . Philip Slayton is a former law professor and lawyer who worked on major corporate transactions before retiring from legal practice in 2000. Since then, he has authored eight books, including "Lawyers Gone Bad" and "Mighty Judgment", and independently published "Bay Street", a legal thriller. His most recent works include "How To Be Good: The Struggle Between Law and Ethics" and "Antisemitism: An ancient hatred in the age of identity politics". Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, February 27, 2023
94. Darian Kovacs: Jelly Digital Marketing & PR
Darian talks about starting his business Jelly Digital Marketing & PR, the importance of having communication strategies, and his podcast Marketing News Canada. Darian Kovacs is the Indigenous (Metis Nation) founder of Vancouver based PR, digital ads & SEO company Jelly Digital Marketing & PR and digital marketing school, Jelly Academy. He is the host of the podcast Marketing News Canada and on the board of NPower Canada. Darian specializes in mixing PR with digital marketing and has worked with numerous internationally renowned brands on developing and executing their digital marketing and PR strategies. Darian lives in Fort Langley, BC with his wife and four children and likes to mountain bike, swim watercolour and read in his free time. Learn more about Jelly Marketing: https://jellymarketing.ca/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, February 20, 2023
93. Willie Sellars: Chief of Williams Lake First Nation, Hockey Player & Author
In a conversation with Willie Sellars, Aaron inquires about his journey to becoming Chief of the Williams Lake First Nation, and delves into the themes of his books "Dipnetting with Dad" and "Hockey with Dad." They also chat about Willie's love for hockey and exchange thoughts on the prospects for the future of First Nation communities. Willie Sellars is a member of the Williams Lake First Nation who became one of the youngest elected councillors in his community's history at age 23. He served on council for a decade before being elected Chief in 2018, and then re-elected for a second term. As Chief, Willie oversaw the negotiation of British Columbia's first government-to-government agreement on cannabis, which led to the development of Sugar Cane Cannabis, the province's first farm-gate cannabis facility. Willie is also an award-winning children's book author, having written "Dipnetting with Dad" and "Hockey with Dad". Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, February 14, 2023
92. Chad Anheliger: Canadian UFC Bantamweight Fighter
Chad Anheliger tells Aaron about how he became a mixed martial artist, how MMA has influenced his life outside the cage and his journey into the UFC. Chad also talks about his new gym opening, what you can expect in 2023 and the potential for him to be on a UFC Canada fight card. In this video, Chad Anheliger shares his journey to become a UFC Bantamweight fighter. Chad shares his tips on how to become a successful fighter, from training hard to staying motivated. He also provides some insight into his experience fighting in the UFC and shares some advice for aspiring MMA fighters. If you're interested in learning more about the journey to become a UFC fighter, then you need to watch this video! Subscribe to our Newsletter : https://aaronpete.substack.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, February 06, 2023
91. Anickan: Artist, Producer & Filmmaker
Aaron spoke with Anickan about his work as an artist, producer, and filmmaker. Aaron asks about Anickan becoming an artist, and his latest album 'Interstellar Love Story' which released on January 22nd 2023. An awakening of the hybrid breed of artist is among us. As a Multi-Hyphenate Recording Artist, Producer, Professional Street Dancer, & Award Winning Independent Film Maker, Anickan is undeniably a fresh new force. From his initial rise in the sunny valley of Phoenix, AZ to his now ascending reach, Anickan’s journey is dedicated to his elaborate and critical artistic introspection, which he uses as a power tool to interconnect art and human experience. Confessional raps, entrancing melodies, filmic 808’s, and spacey distorted electro reflect Anickan’s off-kilter sonic vision. These tonal attributes, his passion for film, and aptitude for innovation deem Anickan’s sound somewhat of a musical cinematic experience. The Essence and familiarity of artists such as Kanye West , Kid Cudi , Travis Scott , Childish Gambino and 070 Shake can be encountered within Anickan’s compositions. After his 2020 debut album “SPRPWR” which landed him collaborations with independent powerhouses such as Futuristic , Chris Rivers , Oswin Benjamin , and more, Anickan is scheduled for release of his upcoming album ‘INTERSTELLAR LOVE STORY’ January 22nd, 2023. Listen to Interstellar Love Story: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLzNHnTRbK5-z9JE3MK5WqzrZs5SMArzSQ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, January 31, 2023
90. Tchadas Leo: Our Native Land Podcast & Journalism
Aaron sits down with Tchadas Leo to discuss his popular podcast Our Native Land, his passion for journalism and storytelling. Tchadas Leo is an award winning Indigenous podcasting/TV host and producer of CHEK TV’s Our Native Land. He is currently completing his Broadcasting and Online Journalism Diploma at BCIT. Tchadas’ journalistic stories has also been featured on CBC Edmonton and he enjoys making stories to share with the public. He is also the host of 2 other podcasts that are based in Indigenous culture, tourism and language. Besides being in the broadcasting industry, Tchadas is an Indigenous actor who’s been on such films as Luna: Spirit of the Whale and the Great Salish Heist. Listen to Our Native Land Podcast: https://www.cheknews.ca/podcasts/our-native-land/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, January 24, 2023
89. Sharon Bond-Hogg: Indigenous Cuisine & the Kekuli Cafe
Aaron and Sharon sit down to discuss her Indigenous cuisine business - the Kekuli Cafe. Sharon Bond-Hogg was born and raised in Merritt, British Columbia, and is a member of the Nooaitch First Nation. Sharon is married to Darren Hogg of Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan, and they are the founders and owners of Kekuli Aboriginal Foods Inc., also known as Kekuli Café. They jointly own the Kekuli Café West in Kelowna and the Kekuli Bannock Food Truck, "Don't Panic…We Have Bannock!" Sharon is graduating with her MBA from the Beedie School of Business and Simon Fraser University this year. Sharon is also the owner and chief executive officer of Kekuli Café Properties Inc, where she brings her passion and vision for an Indigenous QSR to communities across Canada. Learn more about the Kekuli Cafe: https://www.kekulicafe.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, January 10, 2023
88. David Schaepe: Sto:lo Culture & History
David Schaepe and Aaron Pete discuss Sto:lo history, archaeology, land acknowledgements and what reconciliation really means. Dr. David Schaepe is the Director & Senior Archaeologist of the Stó:lō Research and Resource Management Centre at Stó:lō Nation. He has worked for over 15 years as a community-based researcher addressing issues of aboriginal rights and title, heritage management policy and practice, repatriation, land use planning, archaeological research, and education and outreach. He earned his PhD in Anthropology from the University of British Columbia in 2009. In addition to working at Stó:lō Nation, he is an adjunct professor in Simon Fraser University’s School of Resource and Environmental Management, and an instructor of Indigenous Studies at the University of the Fraser Valley. His research interests are multi-disciplinary in nature and include household archaeology, oral history, Stó:lō-Coast Salish settlement patterning and community organization, cultural landscape management, and issues of aboriginal rights and title. Dr. Schaepe has over 25 years of experience in archaeology/anthropology, and cultural heritage research and resource management. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, November 28, 2022
87. Vin Jay: Rapper & Independent Hip-Hop Artist
Aaron asks Vin Jay about becoming a musician, his hit song Mumble Rapper vs Lyricist, the decision to stay independent, and his album High Frequency with Bingx. Vin Jay also talks about his album The Human Experience and specifically the songs Paradise and Doubt. The two dive into the importance of pursuing your passion, the impacts of psychedelics, social media and what Vin Jay has in store for 2023. Vin Jay is an American independent rapper and songwriter who is well known for his viral song “Mumble Rapper vs. Lyricist”, which has been watched on YouTube over 20 million times. He currently has over 700 thousand monthly listeners on Spotify, and over 350 thousand subscribers on YouTube. He has continued to release amazing music focused on motivation, family and pursuing a meaningful life. In 2020, he released his album Prophecy, which covers topics like mental health, addiction, and the state of the rap industry. In 2021, Vin Jay and Bingx released their album High Frequency. This album, as Vin Jay describes, added many elements to his style. Shortly after, Vin Jay released his profound album The Human Experience. This album provides insights on the power of meaningful relationships, the impacts doubters can have and truly reflects elements of the human experience. Most recently, he has released several incredible singles which are available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Music. Listen to Vin Jay on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/2DQkr7ZMTqNrlz5HcXZeI7?si=cFhKvp_eRSW28f88hDQZEg Shop Vin Jay Merchandise: https://youngestprophet.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, November 21, 2022
86. Ellis Ross: Addressing Poverty in Indigenous Communities
Aaron asks Ellis about his personal background, his thoughts on the role of Chief & Council, poverty in Indigenous communities, and his past interview on CTV Power Play. Ellis Ross was elected MLA for Skeena in 2017 and again in 2020. He currently serves as the Official Opposition Critic for Energy and LNG. Ross has previously served as the Official Opposition Critic for Environment and Climate Change Strategy, and Minister of Natural Gas Development and Minister Responsible for Housing. He has worked in both the private and public sectors, with business experience in hand logging, beach-combing, and construction. Ross worked full-time as a taxi boat operator until the Haisla Nation Council requested that he become their first full-time councillor. Ellis served in this position for eight years, from 2003 to 2011. In 2011, Ellis was elected Chief Councillor of the Haisla Nation and was re-elected by acclamation in 2013. Ross has been recognized as a business leader by both BC Business magazine and Canadian Business magazine. In 2012, Ross was appointed the inaugural chair of the Aboriginal Business and Investment Council. In 2014, he was the only First Nations leader among 25 Canadians invited by then-Finance Minister Jim Flaherty to attend a public policy and budget retreat. In recognition of his community service, Ross was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medal in 2013 and the Order of B.C. in 2014. Ross actively enjoys golf, soccer, and basketball. He has a passion for seeing people succeed in athletics, school, and life, which drove his coaching style. One of the highlights of his career is coaching the Mount Elizabeth Secondary School senior girl’s basketball team to a zone championship. He is a proud father of two daughters and a proud grandfather. Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://aaronpete.substack.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, November 14, 2022
85. Tara Henley: Woke Culture, Journalism & the CBC
Tara Henley and Aaron Pete talk about what made her become a journalist, her career, the reasons she left the CBC and becoming an independent voice on Substack. She is the writer of Lean Out with Tara Henley which is a current affairs newsletter focusing on heterodox writers and thinkers. Lean Out publishes essays and interviews, along with a weekly podcast conversation with an author. Paid subscribers also receive roundups of reading recommendations. Tara Henley is a Canadian journalist and the author of the national bestseller Lean Out: A Meditation on the Madness of Modern Life . Her 20 year career spans TV, radio, online media, magazines, and newspapers. She has worked as a producer on George Stroumboulopoulos Tonight and on current affairs morning and afternoon shows at CBC Radio, in both Vancouver and Toronto. A former books columnist for the Toronto Star, and for Metro Morning, Toronto's top morning radio show, Henley is now a regular contributor to the books section of the Globe and Mail. Her writing has appeared in publications across Canada and around the world, including The Guardian, The Los Angeles Times, The Daily Mail, and The New York Post. Tara was also a finalist for the New York Festivals International Radio Program Awards. Tara Henley publishes a popular Substack newsletter and podcast on heterodox thought. Subscribe to Tara Henley on Substack: https://tarahenley.substack.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, November 07, 2022
84. Marion Buller: Missing & Murdered Indigenous Women & Girls Inquiry
Marion Buller and Aaron Pete sit down to discuss the Caribou-Chilcotin Justice Inquiry, First Nations court, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. The Honourable Marion Buller was appointed the first woman First Nations judge in British Columbia in 1994 and was appointed as chief commissioner for the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls in 2016. Prior to being appointed to the Provincial Court bench, Judge Buller worked as a civil and criminal lawyer (1988 – 1994). Judge Buller Bennett served as both a director and president of Canada’s Indigenous Bar Association and has been a member of the B.C. Police Commission and the Law Court Education Society. She was the Commission Counsel for the Caribou-Chilcotin Justice Inquiry and published reports and articles dealing with Aboriginal rights and legal services for First Nations in BC. Judge Buller was instrumental in starting the First Nations Court of British Columbia in 2006.Judge Buller received her bachelor's degree in anthropology from the University of Victoria, and went on to study law there as well. Judge Buller is currently resident in Port Coquitlam, British Columbia, where she sits on the Provincial Court Bench, but maintains band membership with the Mistawasis First Nation in Saskatchewan.In 2012, Judge Buller received the Distinguished Alumni Award from the UVic Faculty of Social Science.Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://aaronpete.substack.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/7RRAeumn0RQListen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7jl39CsCYhImbLevAF6aTe?si=dc4479f225ff440b Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/bigger-than-me-podcast/id1517645921 Listen on Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5idXp6c3Byb3V0LmNvbS8xMDc3MjYyLnJzcw?sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwiA8JKF2tT0AhUPmp4KHR2rAPkQ9sEGegQIARAC Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Fri, October 28, 2022
83. Tim Srigley: HALLOWEEN EDITION! Scary Movie Recommendations & Spooky Stories
Tim Srigley and Aaron Pete sit down for the first ever Halloween episode. Aaron is dressed up as the Joker from the DC comic books. Tim Srigley, from Black Flag Leather Goods dresses up as Alan from the Hangover that was played by Zach Galifianakis. The two discuss the meaning of Halloween, spooky stories, the best scary movies, what scary movies mean, and the brilliance of the Joker characters. The two also discuss costume ideas for 2022. Tim Srigley lives in Chilliwack, BC, with his wife and 3 year old daughter. He started leather working in July of 2020. He was on a 3 month paternity leave from work and looking for a hobby to do while his daughter napped each day. That hobby turned into a business and he was suddenly selling a good amount of small goods (wallets, belts, camera straps, etc). It quickly got out of hand and that was all he was doing in his free time. Tim decided to try his hand at making YouTube videos on leather craft and began growing an audience. He decided to close his books and devote his time to YouTube . As of right now he has 4705 subscribers and the channel has turned into just as much of a hobby as the leather craft itself. In his videos he talks about how to get started in leather work, things to avoid, and great tools to use. He shares templates and tutorials on how to make things like leather cup holders, wallets, card holders, as well as tips and tricks. Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://aaronpete.substack.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, October 24, 2022
82. Matthew James: Whisky Tasting & Reviews
Matthew James and Aaron Pete sit down to taste a variety of whiskeys and review them. They try the Macallen 12 year, GlenAllachie, Shelterpoint, Crown Royal Whisky, Brothers Bond, Tomatin Highland and Laphroaig. Matthew explains why the age of the whisky matters, adding spring water, letting the whisky sit, and different regions in Scotland. The two also discuss fishing, finding your passion and so much more. Matthew is a local whisky aficionado(read: geek) Over the last decade he has developed a passion for learning about “Aqua Vitae,” otherwise known as the “water of life.” This has involved taking part in masterclasses from whiskey experts all over the world, pouring whisky at festivals throughout the lower mainland and generally trying whatever new whisky a he comes across. He has a particular interest in Single Malt Scotch, specifically from the Islay and Campletown regions. Matthew is endlessly curious to learn and enjoys every opportunity he gets to share this passion with others. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, October 17, 2022
81. Dr. Marvin Rosenau: DESTRUCTION of the Fraser River
Aaron sat down with Marvin Rosenau to learn about the current state of the Fraser River. The river has been impacted by over-fishing, larger dykes, and floods. Marvin is a biologist that has spent years studying the fish populations and habitats. In this conversation he explains the damage and risks the Fraser River faces. Marvin is an instructor in the Fish Wildlife and Recreation Program (FWR) at the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT). At BCIT he teaches Fish Ecology and Management as well as Environmental Monitoring at the second year level. Marvin has had a 35-year history of working in freshwater fisheries in the province of British Columbia. This includes stints as a consultant, in academia, with the International Pacific Salmon Fisheries Commission and with the provincial Ministry of Environment. Marvin worked extensively on lower Fraser River white sturgeon during the 1990s as a BC fisheries program biologist and as a Director and member of the Science Committee with the Fraser River Sturgeon Conservation Society. He has a BSc (Honours) and an MSc from the Department of Zoology, University of British Columbia, and a DPhil from the Department of Biological Sciences at the University of Waikato in Hamilton, New Zealand. Learn more about the Heart of the Fraser: https://movingimages.ca/products/the-heart-of-the-fraser Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, October 10, 2022
80. Kylie Bartel: Overcoming Financial Stress, Anxiety, Depression and Addiction
Aaron and Kylie Bartel sit down to discuss anxiety, depression, addiction and other mental health challenges. They go on to discuss meaning, purpose, flow states and other positive mind sets. Near the end Kylie talks about animal therapy, and how horses play a role in her counselling practice. Kylie is a counselling therapist and rider mindset coach from Chilliwack, BC Canada. Kylie is an avid horseback rider and wilderness enthusiast so she specializes in integrating horses and outdoor activities into counselling therapy and coaching. Kylie also works with horseback riders to navigate pressure, stress, performance anxiety, tension, lack of motivation, trouble with focus, and relational communication. By helping riders understand themselves more, Kylie empowers riders to connect more deeply with their horses and reach for their highest goals. Kylie has worked intensively with seasoned horsemen and enjoys blending performance sport psychology with relational horsemanship. Whether it’s asking the tough questions, building skills, or swinging up into the saddle, Kylie believes that generally speaking, it’s better outside. Visit Kylie Bartel's Website: https://www.kyliebartel.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/EcfMp8AaLeU Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, October 04, 2022
79. Nathan Pachal: Running for Mayor of Langley City
Aaron asks Nathan about his work on city council, his interest in local government and his recent run to become the Mayor of the City of Langley. Aaron goes on to ask Nathan about ego, the importance of disagreeing and the role of collaboration. Whether through his blog or by working with other members of Council, various community groups, and regional and city committees, Nathan has worked hard to bring forward awareness around intersecting components of affordable, sustainable, healthy, happy, and accessible community design.Over the years, he has written thousands of blog posts on these theme, and has helped bring world-renowned urban design speakers to the community. As a strong supporter of agricultural and green spaces, he authored a report on the Agricultural Land Reserve entitled “Decade of Exclusions? A Snapshot of the Agricultural Land Reserve from 2000-2009 in the South of Fraser.”He believes that we need a diverse transportation system that allows people to take transit, cycle, walk, or drive throughout the entire region. He co-authored a report —“Leap Ahead: A transit plan for Metro Vancouver”— to bring awareness to the importance of accessible transit networks. In 2010, He completed the SFU & City of Surrey Transportation Lecture Program and presented on “Complete Streets”. Support Nathan Pachal: https://www.nathanpachal.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Thu, September 29, 2022
78. John Borrows: Reconciliation, Indigenous Law & The Queen Passing
Aaron visited John Borrows on Vancouver Island to discuss Indigenous law, the queen and reconciliation. Borrows shares his mother’s influence in learning Anishinaabe law, and for the passion he has for teaching Indigenous laws. John Borrows is a Canadian academic, jurist, and a full professor at the University of Toronto Law School where he is the Loveland Chair in Indigenous Law. He is known as a leading authority on Canadian Indigenous Law and constitutional law and is an Officer of the Order of Canada. Borrows is Anishinaabe/Ojibway, and a member of the Chippewas of the Nawash First Nation in Ontario, Canada. Borrows, along with his colleague Val Napoleon, was instrumental in creating the joint common law and Indigenous law degree (JD/JID) program at the University of Victoria Faculty of Law, the first program in a Canadian law school to allow an integrated study of the Canadian common law and indigenous legal traditions. The program is a four-year program, and opened in Fall 2018. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, September 26, 2022
77. Darwin Hanna: First Nations Economic Development
Aaron sits down with Darwin Hanna to discuss First Nations Economic Development. The two dive into the the process for Indigenous communities to develop their own economies, the challenges they face, and the legal tools they can utilize. Darwin Hanna is a a member of the Nlaka’pmux Nation from the community of Lytton. He is an author, lawyer, adjunct professor with Peter A. Allard School of Law, and director with the piyeʔwiʔx kt Language Foundation Society. Darwin Hanna is a founding partner of Callison & Hanna, which focuses on Aboriginal Law. For the past 21 years, he has been an Adjunct Professor at the Allard School of Law at UBC and has taught First Nations and Economic Development. He is the author of Legal Issues on Indigenous Economic Development published by LexisNexis. He is a member of the working group of officials to explore how UNDRIP will be implemented in the NWT. Learn more about Callison & Hanna: https://www.chlaw.ca/ Buy his book on First Nations Economic Development: https://store.lexisnexis.ca/en/categories/product/legal-issues-on-indigenous-economic-development-skusku-cad-6596/details Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, September 19, 2022
76. Mathew Point: First Nation Housing On-Reserve
Mathew Point and Aaron Pete sit down to discuss his business Creek Cedar Construction. Mr. Point believes in building up capacity of his employees, supporting their personal/professional development, and reinvesting in First Nation communities. Aaron and Mathew talk about National Truth & Reconciliation Day, careers in trades, housing in Indigenous communities, sobriety and First Nation economies. Mathew grew up on Seabird Island, working periodically with various trade industries before graduating high school. He attended the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) over several years periodically mostly focused on sciences. He dropped out after not being able to focus on his studies. He battled addiction over the years until he committed to his sobriety in 2019. From there, he focused his energy on recovery and his career. Mathew worked with Stqoya Construction on Seabird Island, climbed the ranks and quickly became the foreman. Shortly after, Mathew chose to focus his energy on politics within Seabird Island Band. He split his time between council work and to help a former employer develop a new company called Tuya. Mathew saw this company go from a 3 man crew to a multimillion dollar company in 2 years, and felt the urge to start his own business. Mathew resigned from his position on council and put his energy and focus into Creek Cedar Contracting. His business focuses on providing employment, mentorship and services to First Nation people and First Nation communities in the lower-mainland. Learn more about Cedar Creek Construction: https://www.creekcedar.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, September 12, 2022
75. Eric Carter: Skier, Endurance Coach & Trail Runner
Aaron sits down with Eric Carter to discuss his experiences skiing around the world. Aaron also asks about Eric's research on the effects of competing at altitude and altitude chambers.Eric Carter is an elite ski mountaineering racer, endurance coach, and trail runner. He received a PhD for his research on high altitude and exercise physiology from the University of British Columbia. Eric is originally from Minneapolis, Minnesota, and is currently living in Squamish, BC. He is also a member of the U.S. National Ski Mountaineering Team and competed on the '14/'15 and '15/'16 World Cup Circuits as well as the 2015 World Championships. When he is not skiing, he enjoys alpine climbing and mountain running. He is sponsored by Arc'teryx and SkiUphill. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Thu, September 08, 2022
74. Darryl Plecas: UNCENSORED on Corruption, Policing & Politics in Canada
During the first interview with Darryl, the court case against the Clerk of the House Craig James and Sergeant-At-Arms Gary Lenz was still proceeding, so Darryl had to be tempered to avoid interfering with the investigation. Now, Darryl Plecas comes on for the second time to discuss the findings of the investigation, and corruption within the BC Legislature. Aaron Pete and Darryl also discuss Brenda Lucki, Justin Trudeau and other scandals in Canada. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, September 05, 2022
73. Yvon Dandurand: Youth Crime Prevention, Organized Crime & Corruption
Aaron speaks with criminologist Yvon Dandurand to discuss his latest book Youth Crime Prevention & Sports . Aaron also raises the topic of corruption. Specifically, he raises the challenges Darryl Plecas faced when he pointed out corruption, and the current allegations against of Brenda Lucki, the current commissioner with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). The two also discuss organized crime, human trafficking, and cancel culture in universities. Yvon Dandurand is a criminologist at the University of the Fraser Valley, British Columbia (Canada), and a Fellow and Senior Associate of the International Centre for Criminal Law Reform and Criminal Justice Policy, a Vancouver-based research institute affiliated with the United Nations Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Programme. His long career in teaching, research and policy development in the fields of crime prevention and criminal justice has led him to specialize in comparative research. He has been involved in numerous criminal justice reform and capacity building projects in Canada and abroad, including several projects and studies in the areas of organized crime, human trafficking, witness protection, corruption, crime prevention, policing, and corrections. Pre-order his book Youth Crime Prevention & Sports: https://bristoluniversitypress.co.uk/youth-crime-prevention-and-sports?fbclid=IwAR12J3njmLzFQrYxXYLK8SQgJ7Cu_z9-j6sd9eutKVUkgIWa9JZ6E1BWeSE Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, August 29, 2022
72. William Johnson: Vancouver Tech Journal, Entrepreneurship & Business
Aaron sits down with William Johnson, the creator of Vancouver Tech Journal, to discuss technology, business and leadership. Specifically, the two explore technological innovations taking place in the health and agriculture sector. They also talk William being brought into a family in Canada from an orphanage in Kingston. William is a Vancouver-based writer who’s contributed to local, regional and national publications. He is currently general manager of the Vancouver Tech Journal, which was recently named the top newsletter for technology news in Vancouver by the Georgia Straight. With a focus on business and technology, William’s writing has been featured in outlets including Billboard, BCBusiness, Maclean’s, The Globe & Mail, Daily Hive, BetaKit, Ottawa Magazine, and University Affairs. In addition, William has been a speaker on communications and innovation at events like the #BCTECHSummit, Uniting the Prairies, TechVancouver, Marketing Connect, and BC AMA’s Vision conference. William previously combined his editorial work with full-time in-house jobs, most recently as director of marketing and communications at Innovate BC and head of communications at the Downtown Vancouver Business Improvement Association. He is actively engaged in the B.C. business community, currently serving in volunteer roles with the BrainStation and the Business Council of B.C. William also studied political science at Carleton University and public relations at the University of Toronto. He is active on Twitter @notionport . You’re invited to subscribe at www.vantechjournal.com Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, August 23, 2022
71. Julen Etxabe: Religion, Philosophy, Indigenous Culture & Law
Aaron Pete and Julen Etxabe discuss how law interacts with religion, philosophy and Indigenous culture. Aaron asks Julen about his perspectives on western culture, belief systems, decolonization and meaning. Julen Etxabe is an Assistant Professor at Peter A. Allard School of Law at the University of British Columbia and the Canada Research Chair in Jurisprudence and Human Rights. Grounded on cultural and humanistic approaches to law, Etxabe is the author of The Experience of Tragic Judgment (Routledge, 2013) and has edited Cultural History of Law in Antiquity (Bloomsbury, 2019). He is also the co-editor of Rancière and Law (Routledge, 2018) and Living in a Law Transformed: Encounters with the Works of James Boyd White (Michigan, 2014). From 2012 to 2017 he was editor-in-chief of No-Foundations: An Interdisciplinary Journal of Law and Justice and is a member of the editorial committee of Law & Humanities. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, August 15, 2022
70. Erin Ryan: What is being done about ANIMAL CRUELTY?
Erin Ryan and Aaron Pete sit down on episode 70 of the Bigger Than Me Podcast to talk Erin developing a passion for nature, attending UBC for a degree in biology, her graduate research on rodent pest control, the Jane Goodall Act, having tigers as pets, and so much more. Erin Ryan is a Wild Animal Welfare Specialist with the BC SPCA’s Science & Policy Division. Much of her work focuses on urban wildlife, including wildlife and rodent “pest” control. She has experience in research, communications, stakeholder relations, fundraising and event planning. Erin holds a BSc in Applied Biology and an MSc in Applied Animal Biology from the University of British Columbia. Erin is a proud member of the Syilx nation. Erin has been a passionate follower of The Fur-Bearers for many years with a shared passion for improving wildlife welfare and ending inhumane trapping. In 2019, she was a co-recipient of the Clements Award for “Outstanding Organization”, awarded to the AnimalKind program. Support the BC SPCA: https://spca.bc.ca/ Support the Fur-Bearers: https://thefurbearers.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Thu, August 11, 2022
69. Tim Srigley II: Whisky Shenanigans
Tim was a past guest on the podcast. Tim is the creator behind Black Flag Leather Goods. Aaron and Tim catch up, drink whisky and discuss their background and current events. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, August 08, 2022
68. Ilia Poznak: Mental Toughness, Psychology & Meaning
Ilia Poznak is an organizational psychologist, consultant, hiker, Jiu-Jitsu martial artist, photographer and mindset coach. Ilia and Aaron dive into the importance of mental toughness, how psychology can help people learn about themselves, the importance of facing physical adversity, and finding meaning in your life. Ilia also talks about his work helping support people in reaching their full potential, and the reasons he chooses to hike steep mountain ranges. Follow Ilia on Instagram , LinkedIn , and YouTube . Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, August 03, 2022
67. Grace Kennedy: Journalism, Community & The Fraser Valley Current
Aaron and Grace talk about her role with the Fraser Valley Current, and the stories she has written over the past year. The two also discuss journalism, municipal politics, community and so much more. Grace Kennedy is a mother and reporter with the Fraser Valley Current. Grace grew up in Langley and has been focused on journalism since she was a teen, when she helped start Langley Fine Arts School’s first online newspaper. After graduating from University of King’s College journalism program, Grace returned to the Fraser Valley and began working in community newspapers. She has been nominated for three BC Yukon Community Newspaper Association awards, and was named New Journalist of the Year in 2019. Grace started at The Current in April 2021, and has continued to focus on community news that makes local reporting so exciting and important. She also is heavily involved in editing The Current and its stories. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, July 26, 2022
66. Joel Bakan: The World Economic Forum, Psychopathic Corporations & Twitter Lawsuit
Aaron Pete & Joel Bakan discuss the role corporations play in western society and his recent movie The New Corporation . The two also discuss Mr. Bakan's recent lawsuit against twitter. Joel Bakan is an author, filmmaker, musician, podcast host, and a professor of law at the University of British Columbia. His work examines the social, economic, and political dimensions of law, and he has published in leading legal and social science journals as well as in the popular press. Mr. Bakan recently released the film The New Corporation . Bakan has won numerous awards for his scholarship and teaching, worked on landmark legal cases and government policy, and served frequently as a media commentator. He is currently suing twitter. Learn more about Joel Bakan on his website: https://joelbakan.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, July 18, 2022
65. Henry Braun: Mayor of Abbotsford, Businessman & Community Leader
Henry Braun is a Canadian politician and businessman. He is the current mayor of Abbotsford, British Columbia. In this interview, Aaron Pete and Henry Braun discuss his family, entrepreneurship, culture, faith, and education. The two also talk about Mayor Braun's work during the 2022 Fraser Valley floods.Braun was born in Paraguay. His parents were Russian Mennonite refugees from the Mennonite colonies of southern Ukraine who fled to Paraguay during World War II. Before entering politics, Braun was a rancher and the CEO Pacific Northern Rail Contractors Corp. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, July 11, 2022
64. Á’a:líya Warbus: Sharing Indigenous Culture Through Art
Á'a:Líya Warbus is a writer, director, actress, hip hop artist, mother, paddler, pow-wow dancer, activist and business owner. She owns Salish Legends Media , an Indigenous film and media team. In this conversation, Aaron Pete and Á’a:líya talk about Indigenous values and how to share them through mediums like music, film and podcasts. The two also discuss the importance of identity, finding your passion, lifting up your community and the benefits of canoe races. Á’a:líya Warbus is a First Nations filmmaker from the Stó:lō Nation and a graduate of the University of British Columbia Film Production Program. Á’a:líya is a very active member in her culture and community, balanced by a healthy lifestyle in sports and fitness. She is an loving wife and mother of 3. Learn more about Salish Legends Media: https://www.salishlegendsmedia.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, July 04, 2022
63. Farhan Mohamed: Community, Journalism, Entrepreneurship & the Online News Act
Farhan Mohamed is the Co-founder & CEO of Overstory Media Group (OMG), the former Editor in Chief of of the Daily Hive, an Ismaili Muslim and father. In this interview, Aaron Pete and Farhan Mohamed discuss journalism, entrepreneurship, Bill C-18 and making a difference in the community. Farhan Mohamed attended Simon Fraser University and Capilano University. He has worked with Pacific Newspaper Group. From there, he became the editor-in-chief and partner of the Daily Hive. Today, he is the Co-founder and CEO of Overstory Media Group. Through OMG, he aims to reimagine local journalism and reconnect community members. OMG media controls local media organizations like The Coast, Capital Daily, Vancouver Tech Journal, Fraser Valley Current, Burnaby Beacon, Calgary Citizen, New West Anchor, Tasting Victoria, Oak Bay Local, The Westshore, and more. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, June 28, 2022
62. Nikos Harris: Crime, Law & Justice in Canada
Aaron Pete and Nikos Harris discuss criminal law, justice, mandatory minimum sentencing, Peter A. Allard School of Law, and education. Nikos Harris is an award-winning professor who also has extensive experience as appellate counsel. He has authored numerous articles on issues in criminal law and evidence, and his writing has been cited in a number of trial and appellate judgments. Nikos has served as a guest speaker for a number of organizations including Continuing Legal Education, the Trial Lawyers Association, and Crown Counsel of British Columbia. He is also is an advocacy advisor for the Supreme Court Advocacy Institute which assists counsel in preparing submissions for the Supreme Court of Canada. Nikos served as a judicial clerk at the British Columbia Court of Appeal and was a Raymond Herbert Award recipient. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, June 20, 2022
61. Shayla Raine: Indigenous Writer & Author of "The Way Creator Sees You"
Shayla Raine is a Cree author from Maskwacis, Alberta. Her book, The Way Creator Sees You, is about a Plains Cree boy who struggles to accept his Indigenous features after facing adversity at school. In this conversation, Shayla shares her experiences growing up, and her journey into writing and publishing The Way Creator Sees You. Her book has been highlighted by Indiginews, the Toronto Star, APTN News and CBC. Aaron Pete asks about her childhood, experiences in the Canadian military, the journey of writing her first book, and the documentary series she is working on that releases in 2022.Shayla Raine used writing as a creative outlet growing up, and now uses writing as a form of healing. Shayla self-published “The Way Creator Sees You” on Amazon in January 2022. The poem was a creative side-project Shayla did while editing her manuscript, Mimikwas. Shayla is currently finishing the editing stage of her fiction novel which is about a Cree girl that uses physical activity as a form of healing from trauma. Shayla is currently working on a documentary called Decolonizing Wellness with her partner, Ryan Oliverius. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, June 14, 2022
60. Clint Hames: Former Mayor of Chilliwack & Community Leader
Clint Hames and Aaron Pete sit down to discuss the importance of community, the impact of leadership, and the role of politics. The two also discuss Clint's appearances on Chill TV , his band Judy Tuesday , and his involvement with the Chilliwack Players Guild . Over the past 40 years Clint has amassed a comprehensive resume including work in the non-profit, private and public sector. He worked for 17 years in executive positions within a large non-profit and founded and ran a private sector, human service organization for 25 years. During that time, he also served his community as an elected City Councillor for 9 years, the city's Mayor for 9 years and spent 18 years representing his community on the Regional District Board (equivalent to a County Board in other jurisdictions) including 3 years as Chair. Upon retiring as Mayor in 2008, Clint was appointed by an Order in Council (Canada) to serve on the Board of the Canada Lands Company, a non-agent Crown Corporation involved in the development of surplus federal properties. During this term he served as the Chair of the Human Resources, Governance and Investment Committees as well as Board Vice Chair. He retired from this position in 2018. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, June 06, 2022
59. Darryl Plecas: Criminal Justice, Corruption & BC Politics
Darryl Plecas and Aaron Pete discuss the role of education, the importance of encouragement, criminology, criminal justice, safe injection sites, the defund the police movement, BC politics, the Legislature, corruption, and the responsibilities of journalists. The Honourable Darryl Plecas was first elected for MLA (Member of the Legislative Assembly) Abbotsford South in 2013, and was re-elected with even greater support in 2017. Mr. Plecas courageously faced many controversies and challenges during his time as MLA. Aaron and Darryl discuss many of these challenges during the interview. Previously, Dr. Plecas was the RCMP Senior University Research Chair and Director for the Centre for Public Safety and Criminal Justice Research at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV). Darryl has worked with UFV for 34 years. He is the author or co-author of more than 200 books, international journal articles, and research reports addressing a broad range of public safety issues. Darryl also co-authored a book in his role as professor emeritus at UFV, focuses on how government professionals can make better decisions. Dr. Plecas has proudly volunteered with many organizations, including the Salvation Army, the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC), the Justice Institute of BC, the United Way, the Abbotsford Police Department (APD), the Fraser Valley Child Development Centre, and the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse. He is also the recipient of numerous recognitions including the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia Award for Public Safety, the CCSA Award of Excellence, the University of the Fraser Valley's Teaching Excellent Award, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, and the Order of Abbotsford. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, May 30, 2022
58. Dr. Peter Ross: Ocean Pollution, Plastics & Contaminated Killer Whales
Aaron Pete sits down with Dr. Peter Ross to learn about ocean pollution, plastics, and chemicals. He discovered the region’s killer whales to be the most ‘contaminated marine mammals in the world’ in a groundbreaking study, and reported on the widespread distribution of microplastics in the NE Pacific and Arctic oceans. In this interview, Dr. Ross explains the causes of ocean pollution, what is being done to address this growing global problem and what individuals can do to help. Dr. Peter S. Ross is an internationally recognized ocean pollution expert working as a senior scientist with Raincoast Conservation Foundation, and an adjunct professor at the University of British Columbia as well as the University of Victoria. Dr. Ross is a Science Manager and ocean pollution scientist with a demonstrated history of working in the academic, government and private sectors. Skilled in conservation research, Public Engagement, Media interactions, Scientific Publishing, Report Writing, Policy Analysis. Strong education professional with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from Utrecht University in the Netherlands, and MSc from Dalhousie University in Halifax, Canada. He recently served as the Vice-President of Research at Ocean Wise, where he founded the Ocean Pollution Research Program, launched PollutionTracker and the Plastics Lab . He served for 16 years as a federal Research Scientist with Fisheries and Oceans Canada. His work with priority pollutants and microplastics has led to numerous invitations to advise industry, government, the G7, the European Union, and the OECD. His work has been featured prominently in national and international media. Dr Ross is now Senior Scientist at Raincoast Conservation Foundation , where he is developing a new community-oriented Healthy Waters Program . Peter Ross LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-ross-53241855/?originalSubdomain=ca Peter Ross Twitter: https://twitter.com/calypsocoast Donate to Raincoast Conservation: https://www.raincoast.org/donate/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, May 24, 2022
57. Dr. Shelley Canning: Healthcare, Nursing & Ageism
Aaron sits down with Dr. Shelley Canning to learn about careers in nursing, the challenges health care professionals face, and what improvements can be made. Dr. Canning highlights her research on quality of life, perceptions of seniors, the Gero Nurses podcast, and agism. Dr. Shelley Canning is an Associate Professor in Nursing at the University of the Fraser Valley. She is the coordinator of the University of the Fraser Valley's (UFV) Centre for Education and Research on Ageing (CERA), and a research associate with the Health & Social Innovation Hub (CHASI). Shelley completed her doctoral studies in the School of Nursing at UBC where her dissertation research explores issues of engagement, meaning, and quality of life for older adults with advanced dementia. Shelley obtained her BSN (hons) and MSN from UBC, and prior to this completed a BSc and secondary school teaching certificate at the University of Victoria. Her nursing practice background includes palliative oncology and community health. Dr. Canning has been a faculty member at UFV since 2006 primarily teaching gerontology content. Shelley has been involved in a variety of departmental and institutional committees. She is currently a member of the Board of Governors, Senate and the Senate Research Committee. Additionally, Shelley is the director of the Gerontological Nurses Association. Her teaching is geared towards developing professionalism and supporting best practice with a focus on care for older persons; she also strives to integrate an understanding of the importance of research in supporting evidence informed practice through teaching students in Directed Studies. Connect with Shelley Canning on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelley-canning-0a145289/?originalSubdomain=ca Connect with Shelley Canning on Twitter: https://twitter.com/shelley_canning Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, May 16, 2022
56. Dean Werk: Great River Fishing, Conservation & Glamorous Camping Domes
Aaron Pete and Dean Werk sit down to talk about the fishing adventures Dean and his team provides through Great River Fishing , and the glamorous camping experiences he provides through Fraser Canyon Riverside Domes . The two also talk about the work that goes into becoming a fisherman, the different types of fish, conservation and fishing tour guides. “The journey never ends when you share the passion” – Dean Werk Born and raised in Chilliwack, British Columbia, Dean has been fishing British Columbia’s lakes and rivers for over 50 years. He became involved in the sport-fishing industry 34 years ago and has been dedicated to the preservation of the White Sturgeon ever since. Dean is heavily involved in the fishing community and sits on the Board of Directors for the Fraser Valley Salmon Society and the Technical and Community working groups for the Recovery of White Sturgeon. Dean actively shares his passion and works with children teaching them to fish and respect the importance of conservation. Dean is very connected to the river and all the people who share it. He has established solid relationships with many First Nations Bands, including the Yale First Nations who settle along the shores of our rivers. Dean’s true passion is Sturgeon and he lives for the anticipation of not knowing how big the next fish could be or how many times it will jump. Dean also enjoys Spey casting double hand fly rods for Salmon, Steelhead and Trout. He likes finding a private piece of river and trying to cast near perfect loops and capturing everything in his surroundings. Dean loves to share days on the rivers with new guests and friends sharing his knowledge about conservation and all our fish species. Ensuring that this resource is here for us to share with our children, grandchildren and great grandchildren for many generations is the key to feeling fulfilled. Learn more about fishing adventures: https://greatriverfishing.com/ Learn more about glamorous camping experiences: http://greatriverfishing.com/uncategorized/fraser-canyon-riverside-domes/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, May 09, 2022
55. Bud Mercer: RCMP, Winter Olympics & Chilliwack City Council
Aaron Pete and Bud Mercer sit down and talk about Bud’s service as an RCMP officer, working as the Chief Operating Officer for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic & Paralympic Games Integrated Security Unit, and becoming a City Council member in 2018. Bud Mercer is an elected City Councillor for the City of Chilliwack, British Columbia. Prior to being elected to this role in 2019, Bud was the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Plenary Properties LTAP which is an affiliate company of Plenary Group Canada. Plenary Group, formed in 2005, is Canada’s leading Public Private Partnership (PPP) Developer employing people across Canada with offices in Toronto, Edmonton, Vancouver and most recently Ottawa. Prior to Bud taking on his responsibilities as the CEO of Plenary Properties LTAP on the 1st of December 2010, Bud was a member of Canada’s Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Bud joined the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in 1976. His career spanned 34 plus years and throughout those years he served Canada from the Atlantic to the Pacific, the far north and points between. He has extensive policing experience at the City (municipal), Provincial, Federal and International levels. In Bud’s last 10 years with the RCMP he served at Command and Executive levels within these business lines. In these various capacities, Bud represented the RCMP while working in the United States, Europe, Asia and Australia. In October 2007, then Assistant Commissioner Bud Mercer assumed responsibilities as the Chief Operating Officer for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic & Paralympic Games Integrated Security Unit. In this role, Assistant Commissioner Bud Mercer was responsible for all aspects of security planning for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Assistant Commissioner Mercer commanded approximately 15,000 personnel and had responsibility for a budget in excess of 550 million dollars. In 2009 Mercer received the Order of Merit from the Governor General of Canada in recognition of his 30+ years of service to the citizens of Canada and in 2011 the Meritorious Service Award from the Province of British Columbia in recognition of his leadership and professionalism in leading the planning and execution of security requirements for the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympic Games. Bud is married, has four children, 7 grandchildren and lives in Chilliwack in the Province of British Columbia. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, May 03, 2022
54. Caroline Phelps: Skwachàys Lodge Aboriginal Hotel & Art Gallery
Caroline Phelps is the Artist In Residence Program Coordinator, Cultural Liaison Lead at the Skwachàys Lodge Aboriginal Hotel & Gallery in Vancouver, BC. Caroline Phelps is from both Nuu Chah Nulth; Sto:Lo Territories and of Hawaiian descendent. Ancestral Name is QwAACWA which comes from Ahousaht BC. Caroline promotes and will always love the summer traditional Tribal Canoe Journeys, where they support their youth in guiding them in a good way using our culture protocol, also welcoming every culture to this wonderful celebration and keeping our traditions alive. Caroline has been working with textiles for over 24+ years now, whether it’s a star-blanket or a block quilt or working with cedar bark. The blankets that are custom made are for many different reasons such as new born baby: life’s achievements and or in time of memorial to honour peoples loved ones. Aaron Pete and Caroline Phelps talk about the Skwachàys Lodge Aboriginal Hotel & Gallery, how it came about, what guests can expect to learn, and supporting Indigenous artists. The two also discuss the Tribal Canoe Journeys, Hereditary Chiefs, different First Nation communities, Indian Day School and so much more. Listen on Spotify . Listen on Apple Podcasts . Listen on Google Podcasts . Watch on YouTube . Chapters: 0:00:00 The Skwachàys Lodge Aboriginal Hotel & Gallery 0:37:18 Tribal Canoe Journeys 0:52:26 Learning Indigenous Traditions 1:07:23 Indian Day School 1:24:56 Artist In Residence Program Coordinator 1:35:21 Upcoming Events Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, April 25, 2022
53. Kris Cu: Wildlife Photographer, Science Communicator & Birder
Aaron asks Kris Cu about moving from the Philippines to Canada, finding his passion for nature, researching bugs, and photographing birds throughout British Columbia. In this conversation, Kris and Aaron go through the amazing photos Kris has taken of owls, birds, ducks and other animals. More specifically, Kris shares his tools, techniques and ethics around his nature photography. Kris identifies himself as a birder, and shares the apps he uses to identify birds and hear their calls, camera equipment and tools he uses to capture photographs of various birds. Kris Cu is a biological sciences alumnus from SFU and the Conservation Engagement and Outreach worker for Birds Canada. He is passionate about biodiversity conservation, sustainability and science communication. In his spare time, he enjoys capturing images of wildlife, landscapes and outdoor portraits. Visit Kris Cu's Nature Photography Website: https://www.kriscu.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, April 19, 2022
52. Tim Srigley: Craftsman, Leather Expert & YouTube Creator
Tim Srigley is the craftsman behind Black Flag Leather Goods a great leather-working YouTube channel . Tim Srigley lives in Chilliwack, BC, with his wife and 3 year old daughter. He started leather working in July of 2020. He was on a 3 month paternity leave from work and looking for a hobby to do while his daughter napped each day. That hobby turned into a business and he was suddenly selling a good amount of small goods (wallets, belts, camera straps, etc). It quickly got out of hand and that was all he was doing in his free time. Tim decided to try his hand at making YouTube videos on leather craft and began growing an audience. He decided to close his books and devote his time to YouTube . As of right now he has 4705 subscribers and the channel has turned into just as much of a hobby as the leather craft itself. In his videos he talks about how to get started in leather work, things to avoid, and great tools to use. He shares templates and tutorials on how to make things like leather cup holders, wallets, card holders, as well as tips and tricks. In this conversation, Aaron and Tim drink whisky and talk about starting YouTube channels, society, family, choosing a hobby, and sharing your passion with others. More specifically, Tim shares his experience working with leather, the journey of starting the Black Flag Leather Goods YouTube channel , his recommendations when starting a YouTube channel, how to make money on YouTube, as well as tips and ticks to make a successful channel. Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/C5CrxBT7wec Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, April 13, 2022
51. Pepita E. McKee: Overcoming Adversity & Making a Difference
Pepita Elena McKee shares how she overcame adversity, makes a difference in her career, and how she became the CEO of Impact Resolutions . Aaron and Pepita talk about mediating between corporations and Indigenous communities regarding developments, her personal background, attending university and founding Impact Resolutions. Pepita Elena McKee is the CEO of Impact Resolutions , an award–winning researcher, engagement specialist, and social strategist. Pepita attended Langara College for Aboriginal Studies, Simon Fraser University for a bachelors and masters degree in sociology and anthropology. She has worked as a social and health consultant, socio-economic analyst, and now acts as a human environment regulatory and monitoring and evaluation specialist with Impact Resolutions. She acts as a director for the Enrichment League, a Community Liaison with the First Nation Education Foundation and works on a sub-committee with Women in Mining BC. Pepita is the Co-Chair for the Technical Advisory Committee of the Indigenous Centre for Cumulative Effects. Chapters: 0:00:00 Introduction 0:02:14 Mediating Between Corporations & Indigenous Communities 0:24:58 First Nations Economic Development 0:33:52 United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous People 1:01:08 Overcoming Adversity 1:53:20 Starting Impact Resolutions 2:08:51 Reconciliation in BC 2:18:56 Working with Impact Resolutions Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, April 04, 2022
50. Dr. Keith Carlson: Stó:lō History, Christianity & Canada
Keith Thor Carlson is a father, husband, professor of History at the University of the Fraser Valley, Tier One Canada Research Chair in Indigenous and Community-Engaged History, and ethnohistorian. Professor Carlson’s scholarship is designed and conducted in partnership with communities and aspires to answer questions that are of relevance to those communities. His interests include: Indigenous history, Indigenous historical consciousness, and the history of settler colonialism — especially in western Canada and north western USA. The approach he takes is to invert the classic scholarly gaze and to forefront the perspective of Indigenous partners. “So what intrigues me most is not the history of Indigenous people in Canadian or American history, but the history of Canadian and American society within Indigenous histories,” offers Carlson. His focus is on the history of the Coast Salish of British Columbia and Washington and has worked extensively with Hukbalahap veterans in the Philippines. Visit his website: https://www.keiththorcarlson.com/ Grab his book: A Stó:lõ Coast Salish Historical Atlas Listen on YouTube: https://youtu.be/0WrsxLQsCkA Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, March 28, 2022
49. Dr. Dara Kelly: Indigenous Economics, Money & Potlatches
Aaron and Dr. Dara Kelly delve into the functioning of Indigenous finance prior to colonization, with a specific focus on the economic and leadership aspects of potlatches. Dr. Kelly enlightens the listeners on the intricate relationship between Indigenous culture and the concept of money. Dara Kelly is an Assistant Professor at Simon Fraser University's Beedie School of Business. She is from the Leq’á:mel First Nation, part of the Stó:lō Coast Salish. Dara earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Commerce from The University of Auckland Business School in Aotearoa-New Zealand. Her doctoral research focused on the Coast Salish economy of affection, examining concepts of freedom, unfreedom, wealth, and reciprocity within Coast Salish philosophy. She conducted the research using methodologies derived from Coast Salish philosophy, protocols, and worldview. Dara also holds a Master of Commerce from The University of Auckland Business School, where her thesis explored feminine ancestral leadership with Māori business leaders. She obtained her Bachelor of Arts from the University of British Columbia (UBC). Dara has worked as a researcher at the Mira Szászy Research Centre for Māori and Pacific Economic Development at The University of Auckland Business School and has professional experience in leadership development programming. This episode is sponsored by the Real Estate Foundation of BC. Learn more about the REFBC by visiting: https://www.refbc.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, March 22, 2022
48. Paul van Westendorp: Asian Giant Hornet, Honey Bees, & Agriculture
Paul van Westendorp is a bee expert, researcher and British Columbia's Provincial Apiculturist. In 2019, Mr. van Westendorp was called in to help address the Asian Giant Hornets discovered in Nanaimo, BC. As provincial apiarist, van Westendorp oversees statistics and the provincial beekeeper registry, which includes approximately 4,300 beekeepers, most of whom are hobby beekeepers concentrated in the Fraser Valley. In an interview with Provincial Employees Association, Paul comments “The importance of bees is not a luxury. Deep down we know that without bees we are in trouble”. Introduction to Beekeeping Course: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/agriculture-seafood/animals-and-crops/animal-production/bees/bee-courses Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LsIQlr1lbWc Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Thu, March 17, 2022
47. Tyler Olsen: BC Floods, Journalism & the Fraser Valley Current
Tyler Olsen is a father, journalist, reporter, and managing editor of the Fraser Valley Current . Tyler grew up in Vernon, graduated with a bachelor of journalism from Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, and then went to work for his hometown paper. In 2010, he moved to the Fraser Valley to start working at the now-defunct Chilliwack Times, and began reporting for the Abbotsford News in 2014. Over the last decade Tyler has covered crime, courts, politics, municipal affairs, health care and a range of other issues. He has been nominated five times for the Jack Webster Award for Community Reporting, winning twice. Having identified a local need for a journalism outlet that prioritizes quality and depth, Tyler launched the Current in March. Subscribe to the Fraser Valley Current: https://fvcurrent.com/ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/zw19Y_PWA-A Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, March 14, 2022
46. Gurleen Maan: Goat Yoga, Wine, Haunted Corn Maze & Weddings at Maan Farms
Gurleen Maan is the Creative and Operations Director at her family's farm Maan Farms Market & Estate Winery. Maan Farms has a long and proud history of farming and creating unique experiences for the citizens of Abbotsford, the Fraser Valley, and Greater BC. Started in 1977, Maan Farms began as a small roadside stand selling berries and over the years has shifted from conventional farming to an Agritourism business providing unique farm experiences for all ages such as: an Adult Easter Egg Hunt called Bunnies & Booze, Goat Yoga, Haunted Corn Maze, Weddings & they also have an Estate Winery. Today, the farm is run by Devinder, Kris and their 3 children Gurleen, Amir, and Gaurav Maan. Learn more today: https://maanfarms.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, March 07, 2022
45. Matthew Hawkins: Around Chilliwack, Photographer, Podcast Host & Community Leader
Matthew A. Hawkins is a father, videographer, photographer, podcast host, content creator for Around Chilliwack, founder of Hawkins Media and Board Member for the CEPCO Creative Commission. As the founder and chief operator of Hawkins Media and its subsidiary, FilmAds.ca, his goal is to use his passion for art—particularly film—and the creative process as a whole to produce works of both personal and professional value. While pursuing that passion, he has learned how to not only create work that excels both aesthetically and substantively, but to effectively market it as well. Matthew is also on the Board of Directors for Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation (CEPCO) Creative Commission. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, February 28, 2022
44. Stephen Hui: Hiker & Author of 105 Hikes In and Around BC
Stephen Hui is a father, expert hiker, author, and photographer in British Columbia. Stephen Hui has been hiking, backpacking, and scrambling in British Columbia’s Coast Mountains for 30 years. Hui is the author of Best Hikes and Nature Walks With Kids In and Around Southwestern British Columbia , coming to bookstores in May 2022. His first two books, 105 Hikes In and Around Southwestern British Columbia and Destination Hikes In and Around Southwestern British Columbia , were #1 B.C. bestsellers. Hui lives in Vancouver, B.C. — in the territories of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations. His outdoor writing and photography have appeared in the Georgia Straight , Toronto Sun , Le Journal de Montréal , and Where Vancouver . Visit 105hikes.com . Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, February 21, 2022
43. Dr. Geetanjali Gill: Responsibilities of a Citizen & Global Development
Geetanjali Gill is a mother, wife, researcher, associate professor at the University of the Fraser Valley and Gender and Development Consultant. Geetanjali studied in Canada and the UK in the field of International Development Studies. She has taught international development studies courses at the University of Sussex (UK), as well as at Simon Fraser University and Kwantlen Polytechnic University. In addition to her academic teaching, Geetanjali has worked for more than 16 years as an international development practitioner and researcher in the UK, Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and North America. Geetanjali continues to engage in international development consultancies, working most recently with HelpAge International, Right to Play International, Canadian Foodgrains Bank, the British Council, and United Nations. She has also worked with donors such as Global Affairs Canada and the European Union, as well as with the Government of Mauritius. Geetanjali actively engages with international NGOs that are based in BC and Canada, and she is a member of the BC Council for International Cooperation (BCCIC), United Nations Association in Canada-Vancouver Branch (UNAC-V), Canadian Association for the Study of International Development (CASID), and Canadian Association of Development Professionals (CAIDP). Chapters: 0:00:00 Introduction 0:02:02 What is a Citizen? 0:23:51 The Role of Adversity 0:41:47 Having a National Identity 0:47:43 Gender & Development 1:20:24 What Courses Does Geetanjali Teach? 1:47:44 International Development Practitioner & Researcher 2:07:42 Understanding Developing Countries 2:17:00 Family Life 2:35:17 Choosing UFV Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, February 14, 2022
42. Lee Harding: Biologist on Wolves & Caribou in BC
Lee Harding is a father, grandfather, biologist, environmental consultant, hunter, and researcher. In this conversation, Aaron and Lee talk about the wolf culling that is taking place in British Columbia. Aerial wolf reduction involves the shooting of wolves from a helicopter, which the province claims is the most effective and humane way to reduce wolf populations in remote areas to protect Caribou. Mr. Harding's research suggests this is inaccurate, and in the conversation they discuss viable alternatives. After graduating from a California university with a B.Sc. degree in Wildlife Management (1970), Lee guided for a season in northern British Columbia, hunting Stone’s sheep, moose, caribou and mountain goats. He consulted in wildlife ecology in the Arctic for five years, where he worked closely with First Nations trappers in studies of furbearers, muskoxen and caribou. He was an Environment Canada biologist and program manager for 20 years, and after taking early retirement from the Canadian Wildlife Service, went to Japan for a PhD in Wildlife Toxicology from Gifu University (2003). He was an environmental consultant for another 20 years (1998–2007). Dr. Harding is a Registered Professional Biologist in British Columbia, Canada and a member (retired) of the College of Applied Biology (B.C.), the American Society of Mammalogists and the British Columbia Field Ornithologists. Most of his writing is in government technical reports, technical reports for consulting clients and newspaper/magazine articles. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, February 08, 2022
41. Sonny McHalsie: Stó:lō Researcher, Historian, Author & Educator
Sonny McHalsie, also known as Naxaxalhts'i is a father, grandfather, historical researcher, cultural researcher, author, editor, tour guide, educator and member of Shxw’ow’hamel First Nation. Sonny was an editor of Towards a New Ethnohistory: Community-Engaged Scholarship among the People of the River . He was a co-author of the book T owards a New Ethnohistory: Community Engaged Scholarship among the People of the River . I Am Stó:lō: Katherine Explores Her Heritage (1997) – focusing on his family and his daughter. He contributed to and served on the editorial board of the award-winning publication A Stó:lō Coast Salish Historical Atlas (2001) . He was also the author of We Have To Take Care OF Everything That Belongs To Us in Bruce Miller’s Be OF Good Mind (2007). He also wrote the foreword in Keith Thor Carlson’s The Power Of Place, The Problem Of Time (2010). Sonny McHalsie has expertise in Halq’eméylem Place Names, Fishing, and Stó:lō Oral History. He has been featured in documentaries for Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN), CBC & Omni. CBC, APTN and Omni. Subscribe on YouTube Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, January 25, 2022
40. Sami Khan: Climate Change, Sustainable Energy & Engineering
Sami is an Assistant Professor in the School of Sustainable Energy Engineering at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver. His research focus currently is improving carbon capture technology. In this conversation, Aaron and Sami discuss climate change, sustainable energy, CO2, how Mr. Khan became interested in the topic and the role chemical engineers can play. He leads the Engineered Interfaces for Sustainable Energy (EISEn) group, studying creative ways to enhance the performance and longevity of sustainable energy systems. He teaches both graduate and undergraduate courses in energy engineering at SFU, and his multidisciplinary research group is particularly interested in clean energy solutions in remote Canadian communities.Sami was born in Pune, India and immigrated to Canada. A chemical engineer by training from the University of Toronto, Sami’s interest in science and policy piqued when he interned at Ontario Power Generation, reviewing compliance to nuclear safety codes and standards as part of the Darlington Nuclear Station refurbishment project. Sami’s motivation to use his engineering knowledge to impact policy making subsequently led him to pursue a Masters’ degree in Technology and Policy from Massachusetts Institute of Technology. In his Masters’ thesis, Sami studied the market for rare-earth metals with applications in hydropower systems. He received the Hydro Research Foundation Award from the US Department of Energy, and was recognized as the Young Researcher of the Year at the World Hydropower Congress in Beijing, China in 2015. He obtained his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from MIT in June 2020. Sami has previously worked in the rare-earth mining industry in Canada, and was a Science and Technology Advisor to the Chief Scientist of Natural Resources Canada. He has taught high school and university students in South Korea, Kazakhstan and Mexico, and has volunteered in Indonesia through the GiveLight Foundation, supported by the Priscilla King Gray Public Service Fellowship from MIT. He is an avid biker, sailor, foodie and geography geek, and yearns to sail around the world one day. He is an uncle to four nieces and is an alumni mentor at both his alma maters. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, January 18, 2022
39. Andrew Christopher: Canadian Singer/Songwriter & Host of the AC Podcast
Andrew Christopher is a Father, Husband, Singer, Songwriter, Entertainer and Host of the AC Podcast. Andrew Christopher, as he often says, is “living the dream”. He values time with his wife, 3 kids and his work as a father and husband in Ryder Lake, BC, above all else. The fact that he is able to create and perform music as a career is a result of some hard life lessons which have molded him into the artist, and man he is today. Andrew lost his daughter, Lilee-Jean, to cancer in 2013 at 2.5 years old. His dad went to jail in 2017 and was mostly absent since adolescence. A sense of responsibility to live a good life in honor of his daughter, some deep soul-searching, plant medicines, and reading a book given to him by his drummer, Dylan, changed Andrews life in a way that cannot be explained via biography. Growing up with The Beatles, Garth Brooks, piano lessons, and singing in the church choir gave Andrew a great head start in music. He played drums in band class, picked up an acoustic guitar along the way and wrote some of his first songs in high-school. After a pretty serious, but financially frustrating stint as front man in Pardon My Striptease (Pray (for LJ) #1 iTunes + top 20 99.3 “fox seeds” band) Andrew started busking on Granville island to make ends meat and build up a substantial cover song repertoire which now amasses over 500 songs. He recorded his first solo album “Gone” and busking quickly turned into warmer, dryer venues such as pubs, and private parties. His busiest year to date had him performing 274 gigs and sold over 1,000 copies of his debut album. Most recently ‘AC’ has ventured into the podcast world (The AC Show, Between Sets) and started a new original project with his close friend and fellow beer lovin’, hockey fanatic, family man, Jamie Rowe. Parliament of Owls (credit Jamie with the name) was a match made in heaven and is as much about family and friendship as it is songwriting. Their self-titled album has sold over 2,000 CD’s. Yes, Andrew is still selling Compact discs off stage as an ode to his longing for the good ol’ days, but it can also be found everywhere music is streamed. To get a glimpse of who Andrew really is you need to see him perform. You need to feel his joy, his pain and his insatiable lust for life connect with you through song. Bigger Than Me Podcast Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/BIGGERTHANMEPODCAST Bigger Than Me Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/biggerthanmepodcast/ Bigger Than Me LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bigger-than-me-podcast/?viewAsMember=true SUPPORT THE PODCAST: https://www.patreon.com/biggerthanmepodcast Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, January 11, 2022
38. Adam Gibson: Mixed Martial Arts, Entrepreneur & Community Leader
Adam Gibson is a father, husband, entrepreneur, community leader, and black belt martial artist. Mr. Gibson is a father of two boys, married to his wife Stephanie, and owns and operates a martial arts school in Chilliwack. Their business also provides a before and after school childcare program that picks kids up directly from school. Adam is an avid athlete that loves martial arts, skiing, surfing, and playing golf. He also recently started dirt biking with his two boys. He cares about his community and is an active volunteer. You can look more into his business and what they offer at Chilliwackmartialarts.com. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Sun, December 26, 2021
What is this podcast about?
Our podcast focuses on role models and leaders from a variety of backgrounds. We have interviewed Indigenous leaders, small business owners, artists, neuroscientists, professors, politicians, musicians, community leaders, and photographers to learn about their journey and how they make an impact bigger than themselves. Don't forget to hit the follow button and the bell icon to be notified of new episodes.
Tue, November 30, 2021
37. Carin Bondar: Biology, Science Communication & School Board
Carin Bondar is a Canadian biologist, writer, filmmaker, instructor, speaker, television personality, mother, and School Board Trustee in Chilliwack, BC. Video Interview: https://youtu.be/n5m85h_kTS0 Her work focuses on increasing science literacy and communication. Recently elected to the Chilliwack School Board , Bondar is an advocate for STEM education and for keeping girls in STEM subjects through high school. Bondar is author of the books Wild Sex and Wild Moms (Pegasus, New York), she is writer and host of the online series based on her books, which have garnered over 150,000,000 views. Bondar’s work appears on National Geographic , Discovery Worldwide , TED , Animal Planet , Netflix and The Science Channel . She is an adventurer and explorer, having discovered 7 new species of beetles and snails in the remote jungles of Borneo with her research team from the Netherlands (Leiden) and Italy (Verona). Bondar lives in Chilliwack, British Columbia with her four children, three dogs and one cat. Carin Bondar's Website: https://carinbondar.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, November 16, 2021
36. Carrielynn Victor: Indigenous Artist, Conservationist, & Medicines Practitioner
Carrielynn Victor is an artist, plant harvester, illustrator, storyteller, mother, conservationist, fisher and medicines practitioner within S'ólh Téméxw (the Fraser Valley). Video Interview: https://youtu.be/z4vx8zhKSPs Eastern Fraser Valley based artist Carrielynn is a descendant of Coast Salish ancestors that have been sustained by S’olh Temexw (their land) since time immemorial and Western European ancestors that settled around Northern Turtle Island beginning in the 1600’s. Carrielynn was born and raised in S’olh Temexw and nurtured by many parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles. Along with owning and operating an art practice, Carrielynn maintains a communal role as a plant practitioner, and is the Manager of Cheam First Nation’s Environmental Consultancy. The philosophy and responsibilities of these land based communal roles are fundamental for informing the story, style and the details of Carrielynn’s artwork. With ancient and modern design principles combined, Carrielynn’s professional artistic practice takes the form of murals, canvas paintings, drums, paddles and in recent years, illustrations for scientific reports and children’s books. Website: https://carrielynnvictor.com/about Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, November 09, 2021
35. Scott Sheffield: Canadian Military History & Indigenous Involvement
Scott Sheffield is a researcher of Indigenous Military History, Father, Husband, author and associate professor of history at the University of the Fraser Valley. VIDEO INTERVIEW: https://youtu.be/FZAytR_pxCw Scott has been married to his wife Kirsten for 27 years, and they have two sons. Scott Sheffield is involved with two different research projects at the University of the Fraser Valley. The first is the culmination of almost two decades of research and publication on the subject of Indigenous people and the Second World War. The second is focussed on the experience of the Second World War in British Columbia. Mr. Sheffield has published 2 books as sole or lead author, and a third in which he was a major co-author. More information is available below: Purchase: Indigenous Peoples and the Second World War by Scott Sheffield Purchase: The Red Man's on the WarPath by Scott Sheffield A Commemorative History of Aboriginal People in the Canadian Military by P. Whitney Lackenbaurwith, John Moses, R. Scott Sheffield, Maxime Gohier Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, October 26, 2021
34. Laura Lee Reid: Heritage Chilliwack & History Researcher
Laura Reid is the President and Co-Founder of Heritage Chilliwack, and a guest service agent at the Royal Hotel Chilliwack. Most notably, Laura works to preserve the rich history of her community. Laura was involved in trying to 'Save the Paramount' and writes blog posts about the community of Chilliwack. Laura was born and raised in B.C. She moved to Chilliwack as a teen and her appreciation of the city’s history began when her family moved into a heritage home. Laura graduated from Chilliwack Senior Secondary and after raising her family in Coquitlam, she and her husband returned to Chilliwack in 2002 and purchased a 1931 home. In her varied career, Laura has been a small business owner, worked in the film and television industry in props and set decoration and currently works at Chilliwack’s historic Royal Hotel. She has completed courses in heritage and museum studies in the University of Victoria’s Cultural Resource Management Program. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, October 19, 2021
33. Dr. Ryan D'Arcy: Neuroscientist & Entrepreneur
Ryan D'Arcy is an entrepreneur, neuroscientist, father, and husband. He is the co-founder, President, and Chief Scientific Officer of HealthTech Connex a brain health technology company. He also holds Professorship appointments at Simon Fraser University and the University of British Columbia, where he serves as a BC Leadership Chair in neuroimaging and neurotechnology. As well, Mr. D’Arcy has spoken for TedX three times, speaking frequently on brain health innovations around the world. His work is driven fundamentally by the interface between neuroscience and non-invasive biomedical imaging. The work blends basic studies of complex neural systems with clinical work that uses functional imaging to improve the treatment of brain diseases and disorders. Watch the video interview: https://youtu.be/8PeWYibbc-E Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, October 05, 2021
32. Brian Minter: Gardening Icon & Community Leader
Brian Minter is a gardening icon, broadcaster, author, columnist, international speaker, husband, father and grandfather. Mr. Minter is the Chair for Tourism Chilliwack and a board member for Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation. Brian Minter began sharing his passion for plants with British Columbia’s gardeners when, in 1970, he and his wife Faye purchased Country Garden Store, a garden shop that had been part of Chilliwack’s community since 1957. Mr. Minter, a University of British Columbia graduate (BA) and Master Gardener, quickly became BC’s go-to garden expert through his experience at both the garden centre and the display gardens. As such, He has hosted countless radio and television shows, is a frequent gardening columnist and is the author of Canadian Best Seller, ‘Brian Minter’s New Gardening Guide – Fresh Approaches for Canadian Gardeners’. A recipient of the ‘Order of Canada’, an ‘Honorary Doctorate of Technology’, and many other awards, Brian is well known from his magazine and syndicated newspaper columns and TV and radio programs. Brian is in demand internationally as a speaker by industry and gardening groups alike. Brian has sat on the boards of many community organizations including past Chancellor of the University of the Fraser Valley. Just recently, Brian received an Award of Merit from the Perennial Plant Association in recognition of outstanding contributions to the perennial industry. He was also inducted into the Gardening Writers Association’s Hall of Fame ‘in recognition of a lifetime of exceptional work and spirit promoting gardening and garden communications to the public.’ Minter Country Gardens: https://mintergardening.com/about/brian-minter/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, September 28, 2021
Alex Harte
Alex Harte is a photographer, loving partner, program officer for the Centre for Sustainable Rural Development. Most notably, Alex noticed that recent graduates were not able to properly celebrate their academic accomplishments due to COVID-19. In response, Alex began offering his time as a photographer by donation. Alex works hard to hear his guests story and make sure that these photo shoots are positive, memorable experiences. Mr. Harte attended the University of the Fraser Valley and Vancouver Island University for his bachelor's degree in geography. As well, Mr. Harte is enrolled at Vancouver Island University for a master's degree in Community & Rural Planning. Video Interview: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyVyWQLX8ThXnx8G9Bu_EYg Book Alex for Photography by emailing: alexhartephotography@gmail.com Alex Harte Website: https://alexhartephotography.com/ Alex Harte Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hartealex/?hl=en Alex Harte LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-harte-373201b2/ Bigger Than Me Podcast Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/BIGGERTHANMEPODCAST Bigger Than Me Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/biggerthanmepodcast/ Bigger Than Me LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bigger-than-me-podcast/?viewAsMember=true SUPPORT THE PODCAST: https://www.patreon.com/biggerthanmepodcast Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=35374462&fan_landing=true)
Tue, September 28, 2021
31. Alex Harte: Photographer & Entrepreneur
Alex Harte is a photographer, loving partner, program officer for the Centre for Sustainable Rural Development. Most notably, Alex noticed that recent graduates were not able to properly celebrate their academic accomplishments due to COVID-19. In response, Alex began offering his time as a photographer by donation. Alex works hard to hear his guests story and make sure that these photo shoots are positive, memorable experiences. Mr. Harte attended the University of the Fraser Valley and Vancouver Island University for his bachelor's degree in geography. As well, Mr. Harte is enrolled at Vancouver Island University for a master's degree in Community & Rural Planning. Video Interview: https://youtu.be/Q1Fy6PVOpIk Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
S1 E4 · Thu, September 16, 2021
4. Shanal Prasad - How To Start a Business
Shanal Prasad is the principal lawyer at Alpine Legal Services. His educational background includes experience as a Chartered Professional Accountant, and a law degree from Thompson Rivers University. He practices Real Estate Law, Business Law, and Wills & Estates Law. As well, he serves on the board of directors for South Fraser Community Futures. Alpine Legal Services: www.alpinelawyers.com Starting a business? Here are great local resources: Stó:lō Community Futures offers support services for Indigenous owned/controlled businesses within S'ólh Téméxw, the Stó:lō Traditional Territory from Fort Langley to Yale, on both sides of the Fraser River. Our offers include business counseling, access to loan capital programs, business training workshops, and growth guidance. Visit their website to get started: https://www.stolocf.ca/ Community Futures South Fraser serves small business owners and entrepreneurs in Chilliwack and Abbotsford. They provide basic business advisory services including free one-on-one coaching conversations for small to medium-sized business owners. If you’re wanting to grow your business in a specific way, we have a specialist that can help. Visit their website to get started: https://southfraser.com/ Community Futures North Fraser serves small business owners and entrepreneurs in Harrison Hot Springs, Agassiz and Mission. They provide basic business advisory services including free one-on-one coaching conversations for small to medium-sized business owners. If you’re wanting to grow your business in a specific way, we have a specialist that can help. Visit their website to get started: https://northfraser.org/ Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=35374462&fan_landing=true) Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
S1 E3 · Tue, September 14, 2021
3. Camden Hutchison - How To Start a Business
Mr. Hutchison is an assistant professor at Peter A. Allard School of Law. He teaches Business Organizations, a course that discusses the formation of a business organization, like sole-proprietorships, partnerships and incorporations. He has a strong understanding of corporate law, legal research and the important differences between business organizations. Camden Hutchison LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camden-hutchison-9918101a/ Starting a business? Here are great local resources: Stó:lō Community Futures offers support services for Indigenous owned/controlled businesses within S'ólh Téméxw, the Stó:lō Traditional Territory from Fort Langley to Yale, on both sides of the Fraser River. Our offers include business counseling, access to loan capital programs, business training workshops, and growth guidance. Visit their website to get started: https://www.stolocf.ca/ Community Futures South Fraser serves small business owners and entrepreneurs in Chilliwack and Abbotsford. They provide basic business advisory services including free one-on-one coaching conversations for small to medium-sized business owners. If you’re wanting to grow your business in a specific way, we have a specialist that can help. Visit their website to get started: https://southfraser.com/ Community Futures North Fraser serves small business owners and entrepreneurs in Harrison Hot Springs, Agassiz and Mission. They provide basic business advisory services including free one-on-one coaching conversations for small to medium-sized business owners. If you’re wanting to grow your business in a specific way, we have a specialist that can help. Visit their website to get started: https://northfraser.org/ Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=35374462&fan_landing=true) Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
S1 E2 · Thu, September 09, 2021
2. Tim McAlpine - How To Start a Business
Tim McAlpine has a deep understanding of credit unions, entrepreneurship, and running a small business. Tim McAlpine is the founder and CEO of Currency Marketing, and the founder of Cowork Chilliwack. He is also a creative entrepreneur, father, husband, Director for Mount Lehman Credit Union and Director for Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation. He is also the organizer for TEDx Chilliwack and the Director for Startup Grind. His mindset of revamping and updating your business plan is sets a strong example for other business owners. In his full Bigger Than Me Podcast interview, Mr. McAlpine says “Don’t fall in love with the solution, fall in love with the problem”, which is great advice for individuals considering starting their own business. Cowork Chilliwack: https://www.coworkchilliwack.com/ Currency Marketing: https://www.currencymarketing.ca/about Starting a business? Here are great local resources: Stó:lō Community Futures offers support services for Indigenous owned/controlled businesses within S'ólh Téméxw, the Stó:lō Traditional Territory from Fort Langley to Yale, on both sides of the Fraser River. Our offers include business counseling, access to loan capital programs, business training workshops, and growth guidance. Visit their website to get started: https://www.stolocf.ca/ Community Futures South Fraser serves small business owners and entrepreneurs in Chilliwack and Abbotsford. They provide basic business advisory services including free one-on-one coaching conversations for small to medium-sized business owners. If you’re wanting to grow your business in a specific way, we have a specialist that can help. Visit their website to get started: https://southfraser.com/ Community Futures North Fraser serves small business owners and entrepreneurs in Harrison Hot Springs, Agassiz and Mission. They provide basic business advisory services including free one-on-one coaching conversations for small to medium-sized business owners. If you’re wanting to grow your business in a specific way, we have a specialist that can help. Visit their website to get started: https://northfraser.org/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
S1 E1 · Tue, September 07, 2021
1. Nina Zetchus - How to Start a Business
Nina Zechtus has a strong background in credit unions, starting a business, and financial literacy. Nina Zechtus has family lineage from Sts’ailes First Nation. Nina is also involved with the Stó:lō Business Association, Business Manager II for Vancity, a Lending Committee Member for Stó:lō Community Futures, owner of Luna Float, and is on the Board of Directors for Moytelexw formerly Sts'ailes Development Corporation. Luna Float: https://www.lunafloat.ca/ Starting a business? Here are great local resources: Stó:lō Community Futures offers support services for Indigenous owned/controlled businesses within S'ólh Téméxw, the Stó:lō Traditional Territory from Fort Langley to Yale, on both sides of the Fraser River. Our offers include business counseling, access to loan capital programs, business training workshops, and growth guidance. Visit their website to get started: https://www.stolocf.ca/ Community Futures South Fraser serves small business owners and entrepreneurs in Chilliwack and Abbotsford. They provide basic business advisory services including free one-on-one coaching conversations for small to medium-sized business owners. If you’re wanting to grow your business in a specific way, we have a specialist that can help. Visit their website to get started: https://southfraser.com/ Community Futures North Fraser serves small business owners and entrepreneurs in Harrison Hot Springs, Agassiz and Mission. They provide basic business advisory services including free one-on-one coaching conversations for small to medium-sized business owners. If you’re wanting to grow your business in a specific way, we have a specialist that can help. Visit their website to get started: https://northfraser.org/ Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=35374462&fan_landing=true) Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, August 24, 2021
30. Derek Epp: Chief of Tzeachten First Nation & Community Leader
Derek Epp is a father, husband and the Chief of Tzeachten First Nation. He sits on the Board of Directors for the Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce, he is the Secretary-Treasurer for the Stó:lō Xwexwilmexw Executive, and was elected to the First Nation Health Council. Derek is also the Vice President for the Ts’elxwéyeqw Tribe Management Ltd. Derek Epp is a proud descendant of the Wealick family and is honoured to walk with the Xwelmexw name Weli’leq while serving his community. Mr. Epp received a Diploma in Social Services while specializing in First Nations studies. VIDEO INTERVIEW: https://youtu.be/CT1-Sa_dxlo Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, August 10, 2021
29. Nina Púlemiya Zetchus: Owner of Luna Float & Indigenous Leader
Nina Zetchus is a wife, mother, owner of Luna Float, Account Manager II at Vancity. Nina is on the Board of Directors for Sto:lo Business Association and Moytelexw formerly Sts'ailes Development Corporation. She is also a Lending Committee Member for Sto:lo Community Futures. Luna Float is Chilliwack’s first and only Float Therapy Wellness Centre, conveniently located in the heart of Garrison Village. Float Therapy, or simply "Floating", is based on a scientific approach to deep relaxation called Restricted Environmental Stimulation Technique or R.E.S.T. for short. People float for many many different reasons, including stress and anxiety relief, relaxation, meditation, enhanced healing and recovery, pain management, creative exploration, introspection and mental conditioning. In this conversation, Aaron and Nina discuss Indigenous culture, financial literacy, small businesses, Vancity, Luna Float, her relationship and becoming a mother. VIDEO INTERVIEW: https://youtu.be/vs-gu2h2RyA Luna Float: https://www.lunafloat.ca/about.html Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, July 27, 2021
28. Andrew Victor: Pastor & Chief of Cheam First Nation
Andrew Victor is the Chief of Cheam First Nation, Pastor for Chilliwack Native Pentecostal Church, Council Member with First Nations Health Council, Father, and Husband. Previous to becoming Chief of Cheam First Nation, Andrew served as a Council Member. Andrew also serves as a Council member with the First Nations Health Council, which is a provincial-level political and advocacy organization that is representative of and accountable to BC First Nations. As well, Mr. Victor received his Bachelor's of Arts in Intercultural/Multicultural and Diversity Studies at Prairie College in Alberta Canada. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, July 20, 2021
27. Tim McAlpine: Entrepreneur & Founder of Cowork Chilliwack
Tim McAlpine is the founder and CEO of Currency Marketing, and the founder of Cowork Chilliwack. He is also a creative entrepreneur, father, husband, Director for Mount Lehman Credit Union and Director for Chilliwack Economic Partners Corporation. Tim McAlpine lives in Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada. He is the President and Creative Director of Currency Marketing, a digital marketing agency specializing in helping credit unions attract and engage with young adults. Tim believes that credit unions and the credit union movement need to work harder to prove that there is a difference and that it matters. Cowork Chilliwack is a collaborative workspace. They provide a community of like-minded business people including solo entrepreneurs, freelancers, remote-workers and small teams that call Chilliwack home. In this conversation, Tim and Aaron discuss entrepreneurship, small businesses, family, credit unions vs. banks, social media, Cowork Chilliwack, Currency Marketing, and so much more! Cowork Chilliwack: https://www.coworkchilliwack.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, July 12, 2021
26. Eddie Gardner: Indigenous Elder & Council Member for Skwah First Nation
“T’it’elem Spath”, Eddie Gardner is a Stó:lō Elder from the Skwah First Nation, an elder-in-residence with University of the Fraser Valley, a defender of Wild Salmon, knowledge keeper, and protector of the Halq’eméylem language. Eddie Gardner graduated from University of Prince Edward Island with a Bachelor of Arts in 1972. He has worked for over 10 years to ensure Wild Salmon do not go extinct. As well, he has worked with other Indigenous leaders to try to keep the Halq’eméylem language alive and ensure it is practiced. Mr. Gardner further works to ensure Sweat Lodge ceremonies are continued in the Fraser Valley. In this conversation, Eddie Gardner and Aaron discuss Indigenous music, Indigenous culture, the environment, wild salmon, spirituality, elders, meaning and so much more! Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, June 30, 2021
25. Dr. Martha Dow: Sociologist, Professor & Director of CHASI & Sociologist
Martha Dow is an associate professor, community leader, sociologist, mother, and Director of the Community Health and Social Innovation Hub (CHASI) at the University of the Fraser Valley. Martha Dow's most notable classes include: Introduction to Sociology, Death and Dying, Sociology of Families, Deviant Behaviour, and Sociology of Sexuality. Dr. Dow’s work emphasizes action-oriented research, community collaboration, and evidence-based decision-making. She completed her BA and MA in Sociology at the University of Western Ontario and her PhD in Educational Studies at the University of British Columbia. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, June 21, 2021
24. Inez Louis: Indigenous Leader, Nurse & Health & Wellness Director for Cheam First Nation
Inez Louis is a loving mother, Indigenous leader, wife, Nurse, and the Health and Wellness Director for Cheam First Nation. Inez is from Skowkale First Nation, within the Sto:lo territory. Inez was previously the Strategic Operations Planner with the health department in the Sto:lo Service Agency. She is a two-time nominee for the Juno Award for Aboriginal Album of the Year first for her 2010 album, Singsoulgirl and again in 2014 for her album Burn Me Down. As well, Inez Louis was chosen for the Chilliwack Mural Festival. The photo was taken by her husband Justin Louis, and the mural was painted by Kevin Ledo. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, June 09, 2021
23. Spencer Huesken: Sociologist & Organizational Researcher
Spencer Huesken is a sociologist, organizational researcher, consultant and instructor at the University of the Fraser Valley! Spencer grew up in Chilliwack on the farmlands of Greendale playing music and driving tractors. Spencer currently splits his time between Chilliwack BC with his partner and their animals, and Kingston Ontario where he is working to complete his doctorate at Queen’s University. Spencer’s research interests are in the social psychology of self, selfhood, and organizational behavior. His PhD work primarily focuses on the digital transformations of work and labour and the reorganization of self in the age of new media. More recently, Spencer has been active in community focused research, bringing his program of research to the Community Health and Social Innovation HUB at the University of Fraser Valley, working on several COVID-19 related projects. Spencer is driven by his passion of love, learning, and understanding. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Mon, June 07, 2021
22. Trevor McDonald: Entertainer & Host of 89.5 The Drive
Trevor McDonald is a husband, entertainer, host of 89.5 The Drive, business owner, and Executive Director of the Downtown Chilliwack Business Improvement Association. Mr. McDonald grew up in Downtown Chilliwack, and works hard to champion his community. Trevor has hosted 89.5 The Drive radio station for 9 years, emceed Party in the Park in Downtown Chilliwack, and supported fundraising events for nonprofits. He has been the recipient of the Stan Rogers Legacy Award from the Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce in 2017 and an honorary Paul Harris Fellowship Award from the Chilliwack Rotary Club in 2018 for service to the community. In this conversation Aaron and Trevor discuss some of the challenges Trevor has faced, and how he overcame the adversity. The two talk about mentors, hosting a radio station, the pressure of being an entertainer, living in poverty, addiction, supporting small businesses, and family life. Trevor McDonald Website: https://www.trevormcdonald.com/community Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, February 24, 2021
21. Lucas Simpson: Artist & Entrepreneur
Lucas Simpson is a local artist with an art exhibit at the Chilliwack Cultural Centre, he is involved in Kopialine Publishing, and is involved in bringing public art to his community. Lucas Simpson works with an acrylic medium on canvas, he specializes in in stylized impressionist-esc landscapes and enjoys. taking on more abstract figurative pieces. When it comes to his landscape work, he is. drawn to perspectives that have a unique. background focus with a. convoluted foreground that offsets the focus of the painting. He chooses not to blend colours because it gives a more abstract and complex perspective to. even the simplest objects. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, February 10, 2021
20. Kim Gemmell: Author & Community Leader
Kim Gemmell is an author, wife, mother and inspirational speaker. Through life’s journey she shares her trials and tribulations, included with some great triumphs along the way. Her story sends a message of humbled gratefulness accompanied with the power to rise above adversity with new found strength. She equips her audience to find the tools we all possess, but perhaps don’t know we had, in order to live a wonderful life, even though it may not be perfect. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Thu, November 19, 2020
19. Sue Knott: City Councillor & Cancer Survivor
Sue Knott is a mother, wife, traveller, Chilliwack City Councillor, cancer survivor, Executive Director of Chilliwack Hospice Society and a pillar in the Chilliwack community. Sue Knott has 40 years of solid business experience. She started her career with BC Telephone Company and retired as a Senior Manager in 2004. She went on to run the Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce as CEO for several years. In 2008, Sue was elected to Chilliwack City Council and continues in that position currently. Sue Knott has been extremely involved in our community and has volunteered on. dozens of Boards including Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation, Chilliwack Cultural Centre Society, and the Chilliwack Agricultural Commission. She is a past President of the Chilliwack Mt Cheam Rotary Club. Sue has two beautiful daughters Melody Atrill and Haley Wakefield. She is married to her best friend Norm Knott and has embraced a huge extended family. In her spare time Sue enjoys artistic endeavors of all kinds, cooking for friends and family and travelling the world. Sue is thrilled to be part of the community in Chilliwack, the most beautiful place on earth. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, November 10, 2020
18. Adrian Starks: Author & Keynote Speaker
Adrian Starks is a Keynote Speaker, Bestselling Author, Personal Development Coach, CCO of Connect Now Business Network LTD and Founder of Champion UP®. His mission is to help entrepreneurs, students and organizations with teams who are feeling stuck, uninspired or unfulfilled. Giving them tools and strategies to get out of the ruts they are in, Adrian will empower these individuals to become their own Champions of Change, no matter how stressful their environments may be. Champion Up is a philosophy that began with the desire to help everyone see that they can courageously make their own changes and become their very own Champion in any endeavor. In this conversation we discuss adversity, personal growth, motivation, meaning, and change. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, November 03, 2020
17. Jon Heidt: Criminologist & Author
Jon Heidt is a husband, father, professor, author, and a researcher at the University of the Fraser Valley. Jon Heidt is an associate professor of criminology at the University of the Fraser Valley in British Columbia, Canada. He completed his B.A. in sociology from the University of Montana and his Ph.D. in criminology from Simon Fraser University in 2012. His doctoral dissertation, entitled The Evolution of Criminological Theories, passed with no revisions and was awarded a dean’s medal. He has been studying criminological theories for over 15 years and has taught a variety of courses at different academic institutions in British Columbia. He has co-authored a textbook from Sage Publications called Introducing Criminological Thinking: Maps, theories, and understanding and is a contributor to the best-selling Understanding Crime in Canada textbook (edited by Professor Neil Boyd). His work has appeared in The Journal of Theoretical and Philosophical Criminology , Critical Criminology, The International Journal of Criminology and Sociological Theory, and The Encyclopedia of Criminology and Criminal Justice . Dr. Heidt was also involved with research on the supervised injection sites in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside during his Ph.D. In 2018, he completed a study on cannabis legalization and will complete a follow-up study in 2020. He is currently in the middle of an evaluation study about the reintegration of serious offenders and a study on sports involvement and crime prevention. His other interests include ethnography, corrections, and the history of the criminal justice system. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, October 28, 2020
16. Katie McKay: Entrepreneur & Business Owner
Katie McKay is a mother to two children, entrepreneur, owner of three different businesses, and community leader. Katie McKay is a part owner and Director of Marketing for Chewie Media. She is owner and publisher of What's On! Chilliwack Magazine, and owner of Connect Now Business Network. Katie is a Master Practitioner of Neuro Linguistic Programming and is passionate about helping you, both personally and professionally, to achieve your goals. She believes in connections and collaboration and is also inspired by the friendships and support that fellow entrepreneurs can give to one another. No one understands you and what you’re going through as a business owner like a fellow business owner does. NLP allows her to look deeply under the surface, and her very honest and real attitude to life means she will tell you exactly what she sees and how you can change things to make your life and business better. Katie is all about showing you how you can be more visible, motivated, confident, focused and empowered. Working with her is a journey, not a sprint, but she guarantees that she will help you to become a better version of yourself, whilst also making great connections along the way. Katie won Business Mom of the Year and is the proud mum to two beautiful kids, Natalie and Jake who make every day an adventure. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, October 13, 2020
15. Bill Turnbull: Owner of The Town Butcher & Community Leader
Bill Turnbull is a husband, entrepreneur, owner of the Town Butcher, and community leader. Bill Turnbull is the owner and operator of the Town Butcher in Chilliwack, BC. Mr. Turnbull was working at IGA, and wondered why they did not offer local meats from farmers. Through asking this question, The Town Butcher was born. Bill Turnbull created the Town Butcher to provide local, hormone free, GMO free, high quality meat to the community. Mr. Turnbull has put a lot of work into turning the Town Butcher into a community landmark. He works hard to support local initiatives and charities through his business. In this conversation we talk about a lot. We discuss chicken, turkey, beef, culture, community, responsibility, leadership, the Canadian Military, Chilliwack, small businesses and personal growth. Find The Town Butcher: https://thetownbutcher.com/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, October 07, 2020
14. David Jimmie: Chief of Squiala First Nation & Community Leader
David Jimmie is a father, husband, Chief, community leader, President of both the Sto:lo Nation and Ts'elxweyeqw Tribe. He has worked hard to build relationships between indigenous communities and various levels of government. David Jimmie is the Chief and CEO of Squiala First Nation located in Chilliwack, BC. He is the President of Sto:lo Nation representing 10 Sto:lo communities and is also the President of the Ts’elxweyeqw Tribe representing 7 communities. He is the former co-chair alongside the National Chief for the National Chief’s Committee on Fiscal Relations and is now a board member on the National Joint Advisory Committee on Fiscal Relations. David also owns and operates a DJimmie Construction (DJC) which has built 224 homes and 175 apartment units in Chilliwack, BC and Westbank, BC. DJC is currently building a 330-unit townhome development in Chilliwack. David is a strong believer in living through experience which led him to purchase an around the world ticket in 2008 to embark on a journey that would carry him through 19 countries in 1 year. He is currently exploring new ventures to diversify revenue streams for Squiala and the Ts’elxwyeqw while ensuring rights and title are protected. David is a strong advocate for education and culture and has a Masters Degree in Business Administration from Simon Fraser University and is also a Licensed Residential Builder. FULL VIDEO INTERVIEW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EHH9BI00chQ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Thu, October 01, 2020
Kelsey John
Kelsey John is a Father, Council member for Chawathil First Nation, Homeless Outreach Worker, and community leader. Kelsey John has grown up on Chawathil First Nation in Hope, BC. Kelsey John became a Councillor for Chawathil First Nation in their last election. He is the primary portfolio holder for Community Family Services, Health and Education. As a Homeless Outreach Worker, Kelsey connects clients with community resources and housing resources. As a community leader he encourages community development dialogue and growth. Living on-reserve was a vastly different experience which Kelsey discusses. In this conversation we talk about Indian Residential School, trauma, Colonialism, 60s scoop, Chawathil First Nation, indigenous politics, and resilience. Find out more about Chawathil First Nation: https://www.bcafn.ca/first-nations-bc/lower-mainland-southwest/chawathil-first-nation Find the podcast: https://biggerthanmepodcast.buzzsprout.com/ Bigger Than Me Podcast Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/BIGGERTHANMEPODCAST/?modal=admin_todo_tour Bigger Than Me Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/biggerthanmecommunity Bigger Than Me LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bigger-than-me-podcast/about/?viewAsMember=true Bigger Than Me Instagram Page: https://www.instagram.com/biggerthanmepodcast/ Bigger Than Me YouTube Page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyVyWQLX8ThXnx8G9Bu_EYg?view_as=subscriber Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=35374462&fan_landing=true)
Thu, September 24, 2020
13. Jason Lum: City Councillor & Business Owner
Jason Lum is a Father, Husband, Chilliwack City Councillor, Chair of the Fraser Valley Regional District, Director of Business Development for Myriad Corporation, and strong community member. Lum’s first two terms saw him take an active role on several Committees, including Chairing the Public Safety Advisory Committee, Vice-Chairing the Transportation Advisory Committee, as well as acting as the Council Liaison for the Chilliwack Innovation Network, and the Chilliwack Creative Commission. He has been elected three times to the Executive of the Lower Mainland Local Government Association by his peers in Local Government, and most recently completed two terms as President of the Association. His efforts on behalf of the City have helped raise awareness around issues from homelessness and mental health, to flood protection to senior levels of government. In 2016 Lum was elected Chair of the Fraser Valley Regional District, and leads a 23 member board of Directors as one of the youngest elected Regional District Chairs in the Province. Prior to his election in 2011, Lum was the youngest elected president of the Chilliwack Chamber of Commerce, and a board member on a number of local charitable and non-profit organizations. Lum is also a small business owner, and a member of the Mount Cheam Rotary Club, with deep roots in the community. Recently, he was chosen as one of UFV’s “Top 40,” which recognizes 40 outstanding alumni whose ideas, passion, leadership and achievements have helped shape UFV and the communities they serve. Lum is a longtime resident of Chilliwack, and currently resides in Yarrow with his wife, Sheila. Jason Lum's Website: https://www.jasonlum.ca/about-jason Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, September 16, 2020
12. Shanal Prasad: Lawyer, CPA & Business Owner
Shanal Prasad is a lawyer, Chartered Professional Accountant, and owner of Alpine Legal Services. He has also faced immense adversity throughout his life. Growing up near Langley, B.C., Shanal attended Kwantlen Polytechnic University where he graduated with his Bachelor of Business Administration majoring in Accounting. Throughout this time, he worked for his family business building and installing cabinets and doing home renovations, while also running his own tutoring business and volunteering in the community. It was during these times that Shanal developed a passion for working with small businesses and entrepreneurs, and providing assistance to those who need it. After graduating with his BBA, Shanal went on to obtain his CMA (now CPA) designation, while working in a variety of roles in industry. At this point, Shanal decided to pursue his dream of becoming a Lawyer, and enrolled in Thompson Rivers University’s Faculty of Law, where he obtained his Juris Doctorate. During the summers between law school, Shanal volunteered with the UBC Law Students’ Legal Advice Program where he provided free legal services to low-income persons. After law school, Shanal completed his articles at a law firm in the Fraser Valley where he also worked as an Associate. From there, Shanal branched off to start his own law firm, Alpine Legal Services, in Chilliwack where he presently resides. His practice areas include business law, real estate law, and wills and estates law. A firm believer in giving back, Shanal serves on the board of directors of Community Futures South Fraser, and also volunteers his services through Access Pro Bono. As a self-proclaimed "tech-geek", his approach to running his law firm is to fully embrace, utilize, and leverage the latest in technology as much as possible, and to ensure his practice is streamlined, flexible, and efficient in order to maximize value for his clients and to save them time and money. Shanal is a member in good standing with the Chartered Professional Accountants of British Columbia and Canada, as well as the Law Society of British Columbia and the Canadian Bar Association. Find Alpine Legal Services: https://alpinelawyers.business.site/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, September 09, 2020
11. Leonard Wiens: Community Leader & Manager of the Royal Hotel Chilliwack
Leonard Wiens is the Manager of the Royal Hotel Chilliwack, a father, husband and role model for the community he serves. The Royal Hotel Chilliwack was built in 1908 and has served guests for 110 years. This local gem holds the history of individuals who helped build the community of Chilliwack. Leonard Wiens takes being a steward for this heritage site seriously. In this podcast we discuss the different ways he tries to keep this heritage site relevant to the community. In the second half of the podcast we discuss his role as a father, husband and family man. We discuss the complex decisions an individual must make when getting married, having children and choosing a career. Infused in this part of the discussion is the way religious values helps guide these complex issues. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, August 26, 2020
10. David Shearer: Artist, Creator & Entrepreneur
David Shearer is an artist and freelance Graphic Designer from Abbotsford, BC, Canada with over 30 years of experience. He's spent his life in the pursuit of drawing and in so developed a way for everyone to draw, the "reverse colouring book" - Köpialine. He lives with his fiancé and their 4-year-old daughter with a new baby girl expected within a month. David loves the expression of art and the never-ending mystery of its secrets. David and Aaron discuss a variety of topics. Topics include the commitment people have to their identities, the value in drawing and artistic endeavours, family life, responsibility and meaning and personal growth. Check out Köpialine by David: https://kopialine.com/ Find Köpialine on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kopialine/ Find Köpialine on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kopialine/ Find Köpialine on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCirpY9yPsvJtgLmC7Qn7xbQ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, August 19, 2020
9. Dr. Zina Lee: Criminologist & Professor
Zina Lee is the Director of Criminology and Criminal Justice at the University of the Fraser Valley. Dr. Lee also acts as a professor and offers courses on Psychological Explanations of Criminal and Deviant Behaviour and Quantitative Research Techniques. Dr. Lee completed her graduate degrees in law and forensic psychology, and a postdoctoral fellowship in clinical child psychology. In this interview, Dr. Lee and I discuss the importance of research skills,critical thinking, and writing. We also discuss criminology, criminal minds, the courses she offers, defunding the police and much more! Connect with Zina Lee on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zina-lee-b3763a18b/ Find Dr. Lee at the University of the Fraser Valley: https://www.ufv.ca/criminology/faculty-staff/lee-zina.htm Find the podcast on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bigger-than-me-podcast Check out our website: https://biggerthanmepodcast.buzzsprout.com/ Join our Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3089667531069809 Find us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/biggerthanmepodcast/ Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=35374462&fan_landing=true) Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, August 12, 2020
8. Mark LaLonde: Chief Safety Officer at SFU & Educator
Mark LaLonde is the Chief Safety Officer at Simon Fraser University. He also offers a criminology course on risk assessment and management at the University of the Fraser Valley. Mr. LaLonde has previously worked as the Director of International Operations for Xpera. Prior to that, Mark worked as a consultant for the United Nations. Mark LaLonde has also worked as an officer for Vancouver Police Department. In this podcast we discuss Mark's professional background, his course on risk management at UFV, his role as Chief Safety Officer at SFU, COVID-19, earthquakes, volcanoes, news and much more. Mark LaLonde can be found on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marklalonde/ Mark LaLonde at SFU: https://www.sfu.ca/srs/contact/leadership.html Mark LaLonde Photography: https://twitter.com/MarkMwlalonde Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, August 05, 2020
7. Anouk Crawford: Family Lawyer & Business Owner
Anouk Crawford is a family lawyer who runs Vale Family Law and Mediation in Chilliwack, BC. As a family lawyer, she has significant experience working with families coping with depression, anger and high-conflict separation. Anouk and I discuss Anouk's background, current events, family law, separation, domestic violence, Vale Family Law, and Anouk's service to the community. For more information about Anouk please visit their website at: https://www.valefamilylawandmediation.com/about-us/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valefamilylawandmediation Alternatively, you can follow her on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anouk-crawford-8ab19bb9/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/valefamilylawandmediation/ Join the Bigger Than Me Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/3089667531069809 Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=35374462&fan_landing=true) Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, July 22, 2020
6. Kevin Westell: Bencher, Lawyer & Community Leader
Kevin Westell is a father, fiance, community member and lawyer. Mr. Westell is a founding partner at Pender Litigation in Vancouver, BC. Similarly, he gives back to the legal community in multiple ways. For example, Mr. Westell teaches trial advocacy skills to law students. He serves as president of the Advocate's Club and much more. In this conversation, Mr. Westell is asked about his involvement in the community, and personal background. Mr. Westell and I also discuss criminal law and the court system, in a Canadian context. More specifically, we analyze the overarching roles of Crown Counsel, Defence Counsel and the Judiciary. For more information on Mr. Westell visit: https://www.penderlitigation.com/lawyers/kevin-westell/ Find him on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-westell-50924613/?originalSubdomain=ca Support the show (https://www.patreon.com/user?u=35374462&fan_landing=true) Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, July 15, 2020
5. Brett Kentala: Real Estate Agent & Community Leader
Brett Kentala was born and raised in Chilliwack, BC. At age 20, he began his journey in real estate. Over the past 5 years, Mr. Kentala has been a realtor specializing in the Fraser Valley area. Mr. Kentala has an amazing fiance, named Sarah. He is a father of two beautiful children named Mattias and Mayleigh who are ages four and two. In this conversation you see how important decisions you make in your early 20s can be, and how determination can be the key to success! Mr. Kentala hopes to share information and educate people of all ages on the realities of the real estate market in the lower-mainland. Find them on Facebook or Instagram @thekentalateam or @brettkentala. Check out their website: https://www.discoverchilliwackliving.com/the-kentala-team-1 K.Kentala Photography: https://www.kkentalaphotography.ca/ Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, July 08, 2020
4. Trevor Johnson: Community Leader
This episode focuses on the adversity of youth, and how role models can help change the trajectory for young people. Trevor Johnson obtained his Bachelor's Degree from the University of the Fraser Valley. He is mindful, intelligent, and very humble. We discuss his background, and personal development. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, June 24, 2020
3. Rebekah Myrol: Psychology Communicator
Rebekah Myrol is a current student at the University of the Fraser Valley. She is an honest, driven individual. In this conversation, Rebekah discusses her background to explain her passion and enthusiasm for psychology. Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Wed, June 17, 2020
2. Jonny Singh: Business Owner & Educator
Jonny Singh owns a small business called Beyond Nutrition, in Chilliwack BC. In this podcast we discuss communication, health, community, nutrition and how to make a difference! Jonny is an inspiring, caring individual and it was an honour to have him as a guest! Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
Tue, June 09, 2020
1. Jacob Caouette: Indigenous Leader & Law Student
Jacob and I grew up in Downtown Chilliwack, and faced adversity throughout our childhood. Unfortunately, there were a lack of role models during our adolescence. In this interview it is clear that Jacob took these challenges, and grew because of them. A running theme in this podcast is to search and find community members, and small businesses to be role models for today's youth! Send us a text Support the show www.biggerthanmepodcast.com
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