Host Peter McCully chats with Andrea Silver, a pharmacist and member of the board of the College of Pharmacists about the groundbreaking initiatives taken by British Columbia to provide free access to contraceptives, with more than 60 types being made available. The first segment of the podcast focuses on Silver's insights into the free contraceptive program, discussing its reception, implementation and the notable increase in individuals benefiting from free contraceptives. The statistics reveal that almost 300,000 people have availed themselves of these services since the program's initiation, showcasing a significant positive response. Silver emphasizes the program's impact on contraceptive choices. The discussion extends to the broader societal implications, linking unintended pregnancies to health and economic challenges, making the case for providing families with the best possible start. In the second segment, McCully talks with Black Press Media journalist Lauren Collins who had the opportunity to interview Health Minister Adrian Dix about the program and benefits. “There are longer-term benefits, and this will take longer to assess. It’s impact, for example, on unwanted pregnancies and other issues, that will take longer to assess, obviously, than the period that it's been in place so far. But it's our belief, and certainly the belief of those that study this issue that there will be other benefits beyond that,” said Dix. “Across the board, I think it's been launched successfully, it's worked for women, it's saved money and it's better health care. I think that it's going to be followed in other jurisdictions as well”. Dix emphasizes the financial relief for younger women, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of healthcare and financial considerations. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Caitlin Vanderhaeghe of Vancouver, the president, CEO, and co-founder of KidStar Nutrients. Vanderhaeghe discusses her experience on ‘Dragons’ Den’, where she secured a partnership with Arlene Dickinson and Wes Hall. Vanderhaeghe shares her journey into the health and wellness industry, the conversation dives into the inspiration behind starting KidStar Nutrients, focusing on the importance of quality products for children's health and the significance of iron deficiency, and how Caitlin's personal experience inspired the creation of a unique iron supplement. “I was really dissatisfied with what I found on the market,” said Vanderhaege. “And then my second daughter ended up being iron deficient. And so I went on a hunt to find her a product and in the process I realized that I had to just make one. We actually made the iron products for her specifically. Iron is the number one nutrient deficiency in the world, and also here in Canada, and it's very much lacking from our diet today." The KidStar founder reflects on the challenges of launching a business during the pandemic and the subsequent shipping issues. "We launched in January of 2020, unknowing of what was coming. So, it was a huge hurdle to be honest." The podcast delves into Vanderhaeghe’s entrepreneurial spirit, shaped by her childhood experiences of selling flowers and having a paper route. Vanderhaeghe reflects on her experience on the TV show, the nerve-racking moments on stage, and the subsequent positive impact on Kidstar Nutrients' business. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts.

Host Peter McCully chats with Perry Bulwer of Port Alberni on Vancouver Island. Bulwer has written a book entitled Misguided: My Jesus Freak Life in a Doomsday Cult, taking the podcast listener on a journey through his tumultuous experience with the Children of God cult. Starting with his initial encounter at a Chinese restaurant in Port Alberni, Perry recounts the allure that drew him into the depths of the cult. "They saw something in me, something receptive,” said Bulwer. "The dogma and the teachings I learned in the Catholic Church weren't that much different from what they were preaching and they were taking advantage of that." Bulwer explains the origins of the cult, tracing its roots back to California in 1968 and the charismatic leader David Berg, the cult's radical preaching, its migration to Canada, and the controversies surrounding its practices add layers to the story. The podcast reflects on the emotional toll of living in a cult, as the author describes the internal conflicts and doubts that eventually led him to leave. Upon returning to Canada, he faced the daunting task of rebuilding his life, marked by educational pursuits and personal rediscovery. The episode captures the resilience required for post-cult recovery, offering a glimpse into Perry's transformative journey. Bulwer has been an advocate for cult survivors since 2004. “There's a lot of psychological damage to that generation who were born in the group,” he said. “Once I turned my mind to it and understood what had happened to them, I had to speak up. I started doing that in 2004 and basically have continued to this day to be an advocate in that sense.” If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts.

Host Peter McCully chats with Ken McGoogan, author of Searching for Franklin. McGoogan shares insights into his exploration of the Franklin Expedition, discussing the challenges of writing history and the significance of on-site research. The podcast explores the psychological and physical hardships faced by Franklin and his crew during their Arctic expeditions, emphasizing the harsh conditions, confinement on ships, and the challenges of wintering in the ice. Lady Jane Franklin's pivotal role in the story was explained. “She was still heavily involved in sending out expeditions, but she also mythologized Franklin,” said McGoogan. “He had already been acclaimed as the man who ate his boots, but now he became the discoverer of the Northwest Passage, which was not true.” McGoogan reflects on surprising discoveries during his research, notably proposing a theory related to trichinosis from eating infected polar bear meat as a possible cause of the expedition's tragic end. “Take those barrels that I'm saying they used to transport me. Maybe there's still some traces of meat in those barrels that could be tested, that would then corroborate my theory,” he said. Barney Bentall, a frequent Arctic traveller, provides a unique perspective on Franklin's legacy and the profound experiences one encounters in the desolate beauty of the Arctic. “It's pretty powerful when I get to Beachy Island, and I have had the good fortune of going there probably six times,” said Bentall. “This is a place where it is extremely difficult to get to. I've had the good fortune to be there, and it's a very moving place. It really hits you, just the desolation and the beauty of the place, but my God, how hard it would be to survive there.” McGoogan also draws contemporary lessons from Franklin's story, emphasizing the balance between determination and hubris, and the importance of listening to local knowledge. The author is returning to the arctic in 2024 on an Adventure Canada Tour. The company is currently sponsoring a contest to win a $5,000 travel credit. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts.

Host Peter McCully chats with two remarkable authors, Haley Healey whose book Her Courage Rises was nominated for a B.C. and Yukon Book Award and Jess Housty, whose book of poetry found its way to the top of the B.C. best sellers list. In the first segment, McCully asks about Healey's book, designed to introduce young readers to a group of trailblazing women from B.C. and the Yukon. Healey explains that her inspiration for writing this book came after a five-day hike near Tofino, where she toured Cougar Annie’s Garden and was fascinated by the story of the pioneer homesteader. This curiosity led her to uncover publish 50 stories of women, many not been featured in history books. Haley hopes young readers will be inspired to pursue their dreams and learn about these incredible women who defied societal norms. “Many have led unconventional lives and done remarkable things,” said Healey. “I hope young readers and all readers are inspired to follow their own dreams and live the life they want, even if it's unconventional.” Healey is a self-proclaimed trailblazing woman, who has taught in remote communities, guided canoe expeditions and balanced motherhood with adventure. In the second segment of the ‘Made in B.C. Book Club, the podcast transitions to Housty, who discusses her book of poems, Crushed Wild Mint. Housty lives in Bella Bella and her deep love for the land and her cultural heritage are evident in her poetry. She describes how her father's quiet poetry and her upbringing surrounded by the beauty of the land influenced her writing. Housty’s involvement in community-driven non-profit work, particularly in food security and herbalism, highlights the importance of food security, especially in remote communities. She also touches on the resurgence of efforts to preserve and pass down oral histories and cultural traditions. The podcast episode includes Housty sharing a poem inspired by her younger child, who believes that the wind originates in the bellies of wolves when they howl. This poem, titled ‘Breath’, reflects Jess's love for her children and her connection to her culture and territory. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts.

Host Peter McCully talks with Lucy and Stewart MacNeil about the Barra MacNeils Christmas concert tour that began in Whitehorse and ended on Cape Breton Island.  Lucy and Stewart discuss the impact of their music on audiences, especially during the Christmas season. They highlight the role of family in their performances, emphasizing the unique sound that comes from singing together as a family. The siblings reminisce about their roots in Sydney Mines, Cape Breton, and how the name ‘Barra MacNeils’ originated from the small Scottish island of Barra, known for its rich Gaelic singing tradition. "Barra is an island off the coast of Scotland, a small little wee island," said Stewart MacNeil. “That's where the association is. That's where it started at Kisimul Castle. Although it's a very small island, there's a huge tradition, especially of Gaelic singing." Stewart MacNeil recalling a unique encounter at Eastside Mario's in Sydney, where a Chinese women's basketball team unexpectedly joined in singing 'Auld Lang Syne', demonstrating the universal power of music. The siblings share anecdotes about recording Christmas albums in May, creating a festive atmosphere with a turkey dinner during the recording process, and the significance of certain songs like ‘Miner's First Noel’. Bruce Guthro, a dear friend, neighbour and songwriter, is fondly remembered, as is his song ‘Bound for Bethlehem’. Stewart MacNeil recounts Bruce becoming a legend in Europe with the band Runrig. The podcast touches on the MacNeil families enduring connection t, and the impact of their performances on the community, especially during the holiday season. The siblings express their gratitude for the continued support of their fans and the evolving traditions within their own families. The podcast includes a wide selection of seasonal music: 'Carol of the Bells,' 'Christmas in Carrick,' 'Miner's First Noel,' 'Bound for Bethlehem,' 'God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,' 'I Saw Three Ships,' 'Christmas in Killarney,' and 'Auld Lang Syne.' If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts.

  On this Edition of Today in BC, the Union of British Columbia Municipalities explores the pressing issue of wildfires in British Columbia and their profound health impacts. Three speakers delve into the physical and mental health consequences of wildfires, emphasizing the challenges faced by communities, healthcare workers and vulnerable populations. Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, sheds light on the complexities of evacuating vulnerable individuals from long-term care facilities amidst the crisis. He emphasizes the significant strain placed on the healthcare system and healthcare workers. “Can you imagine continuing to work and caring for people away from your home, travelling with them while your own home is in jeopardy?” said Dix. “It is an extraordinary thing for our healthcare community to have done that and achieve that, I think, requires from me and from everyone in the province, gratitude and appreciation.” Armel Castellan, a warning preparedness meteorologist, provides a perspective on the unprecedented heatwaves and droughts that exacerbated the wildfire situation. He highlights the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events due to climate change, which contribute to prolonged wildfire seasons and hazardous smoke conditions. Dr. Angela Yao, a senior scientist in environmental health services, discusses the long-term health impacts of wildfire smoke exposure. She presents research findings linking smoke exposure to respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems and even cognitive function. Yao emphasizes the need for proactive measures, such as improving indoor air quality and creating personal action plans to mitigate the health risks associated with wildfires. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

On this podcast episode of ‘Today in BC’, host Peter McCully sits down with Chelsea Watt, a contestant on the iconic game show, ‘Jeopardy!’ Watt shares her journey from being a lifelong fan of the show to becoming a contestant, discussing the rigorous audition process, the thrill of being on the show, the unexpected challenges she faced and the excitement of being in the contestant pool. "One of my goals, if there was a Canadian question, was I wanted to get it correct and not embarrass all of Canada,” said Watt. “There was a question where the answer was Celine Dion, and I did buzz in first, and I did get it correct, so I was happy with that.” Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at what it's like to be a contestant on the beloved quiz show, from the quick turnaround between episodes to the importance of keeping game outcomes a secret until they air. “People were so excited for me, and they were so excited to watch it. I was just like, ‘you guys are going to be wildly disappointed with how this turns out,’” said Watt. “You always feel a bit bad that it maybe didn't turn out the way that they hoped. I managed to keep the secret.” Watt discusses her strengths and weaknesses in different subjects or the pressure of living up to the ‘Jeopardy! girl’ reputation at pub trivia nights. She also shares some of her favorite ‘Jeopardy!’ contestants and moments from the show's recent history, offering insight into what makes the program so enduring. McCully asked Watt about host Ken Jennings. "He’s so funny, really kind, super quick-witted. It's very clear when you're playing or watching other people play that Ken knows most of the answers,” said Watt. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart and Google podcasts.

Host Peter McCully chats with Wolfgang Depner, legislative reporter for Black Press Media about the recently concluded fall session of the legislature, highlighting the key issues discussed. Depner reports on the intense debates surrounding housing legislation, with a focus on bills promising to reshape the housing landscape and the challenges faced by opposition parties in scrutinizing them. The episode also explores the various facets of affordability in BC, extending beyond housing to encompass topics like gas prices, carbon taxation, and healthcare. “The legislature now takes a break; we'll be back in February,” says Depner. “That session will also turn out to be a fairly busy one, unfolding against the backdrop of the next provincial election in mid to late October. If the fall session was busy, I expect the spring session of next year to be even busier and potentially more controversial and acrimonious.” Environment Minister George Heyman's perspective on BC's commitment to emission reduction and clean energy investments is highlighted as he is attending the COP28 in Dubai. (The Conference of Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change). External events, such as the Israel-Hamas conflict and fallout between Canada and India, add a global context to the provincial discussions in the fall session that tackled multiple issues, including the opioid crisis, healthcare challenges, and the overarching concern of climate change. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Darrell McKay, a retired engineer from Campbell River and actively involved in humanitarian efforts, chats with host Peter McCully from Ukraine. McKay, on his fifth trip to the war-torn region, provides a first-hand account of the dire conditions faced by the people. From sitting on the front stoop of a safehouse near the front line to witnessing the devastating impact of drone warfare, McKay shares stories of resilience and heroism amid the ongoing conflict. "I'm sitting in the front stoop of a safe house, 20 kilometers away from the front line. I can't say where it is right now. Just can't give away the identity of the house. But it's close enough that there's mortars coming in and constant air raids." McKay discovered stretchers were in short supply, leaving Ukrainian soldiers with a crude alternative: dragging bodies using a rope in a figure-eight pattern. Determined to make a difference, McKay focused on the positive and initiated a fundraising campaign. To date he has purchased 500 stretchers to aid the soldiers on the front lines. “I'm amazed. I'm at the total now of donated money up to $55,000,” said McKay. “I've had a lot of people show faith in me to deliver the goods. The organization that I'm working with it's called Ukrainian Patriot and has let me directly spend the money. So, there's no middleman. In the grocery store a few weeks ago. I spent $3,000. $3,000 made up 350 food bags.” McKay says a food bag will feed a couple for 5 or 6 days. “We’ve dispersed those along the way, and these are internally displaced people, some of them don't have homes, some are staying in rec centres, some are sleeping on cots and offices, they don't have homes anymore,” he said. “That was money donated by people that heard your podcast, saw my Facebook.” McKay tells McCully mortar fire and land mines and are part of the active warfare as well as the use of drones. "The drone warfare has changed things beyond belief,” he said. “It's not like sitting there shooting guns at each other and mortar firing tanks. These little things can go 100 km/h. There's no outrunning them. There's no hiding from them." McKay is also working with a documentary crew, focused on the efforts of Ukraine Patriot. You can find out more about McKay’s efforts see photos of his travels on his Facebook page. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Pamela Martin, longtime B.C. news anchor and journalist, discussing the enriching aspects of her retirement, her journey in journalism and her current dedication to volunteer work, particularly with organizations like Coastal Mental Health and the Pacific Autism Family Network. Martin broke barriers as the first female reporter at CKNW news radio in the 1970s, with her unique perspective on stories, earning her a spot on the anchor desk at BCTV. The former Miss Teen USA attended university in Mexico and Italy. “I actually recommend that everyone live in another country if they can,” said Martin. “It was just a phenomenal experience. You learn another language and about a culture in a way that you can't learn as a tourist. I look back on those as really great, mind-expanding experiences.” Post-journalism, Martin embraced a role as the director of engagement for Premier Christy Clark, reflecting on the transition, the golden age of television news and the experience of interviewing global figures like Fidel Castro and Bill Clinton. Martin is busy in retirement, working with Coastal Mental Health and also sheds light on the Pacific Autism Family Network, telling the touching story of friends dedicated to creating a haven for neurodiverse children and providing details about the network's comprehensive approach. The Pacific Autism Family Network has an annual fundraiser called ‘Launch,’ held in December in Vancouver. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with economist Jock Finlayson, who discusses a range of economic and societal issues affecting British Columbia, providing valuable insights. The former chief policy officer for the Business Council of Canada now serves with the Independent Contractors and Businesses Association. ‘Housing is just simply unaffordable. Home ownership has moved out of reach for a huge proportion of the population,” said Finlayson. “We're looking at three per cent population growth rates for British Columbia and it's quite extraordinary. Renters are the group I worry about the most. A lot of our frontline workforce, including in the small business world, consists of relatively young British Columbians who are in the workforce doing service jobs, helping keep the economy going.” When asked about interest rates, the economist mentioned a potential rise in insolvencies and bankruptcies due to the challenging financial environment, emphasizing interest rates are likely to decline in the coming months, advising people to wait before taking out loans. The discussion turns to government regulations on short-term vacation rentals and the challenges of balancing policy measures with economic principles. “We are in a housing crisis, especially at the rental end of the markets,” said Finlayson. “So I do have some sympathy with the policymakers feeling the pressure to do something or be seen to do something. These restrictions that have been brought in are not going to solve the problem, frankly.” The podcast also explores the complexities of the tax system and the need for a simpler, flatter income tax structure.  The challenges of affordability, supply and demand for electric vehicles are discussed, emphasizing the need for realistic targets in the transition to electrification. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts. Host Peter McCully chats with Wolfgang Depner, legislative reporter for Black Press Media. The podcast opens with Depner explaining the circumstances surrounding the resignation of Dr. Sanjiv Gandhi, the Deputy Leader of the B.C. Green Party. The provincial and federal carbon tax was hotly debated in the legislature the past two weeks, as podcast listeners will hear from Premier David Eby, Leader of the Opposition Kevin Falcon, BC Green  Party house leader Sonia Furstenau and B.C. Conservative Party leader John Rustad. “If you look at the big picture, two out of the four are threatening to get rid of it (carbon tax) if the stars align, as in the case of BC United,” said Depner.  “Now, BC United has made the point, ‘look, the current system is not working, but we're going to come forward with environmental policies that are actually going to work’. But you can already see this issue becoming, to some degree… the defining issue in the next provincial election.” During the session the NDP government introduced legislation increasing density for housing. “That change also comes along with changes to how public hearings are going to take place,” said Depner. “Down the line, there will be fewer public hearings. Public hearings will still take place outside of OCP reviews. But there will be far fewer of the, and OCP reviews will now happen every five years.” During the session discussed, Falcon made the argument that newly introduced legislation restricting short-term vacation rentals would hurt people looking for accommodation for Swift’s scheduled 2024 concerts, because Vancouver does not have enough hotel rooms to accommodate large events. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts.

Eric Brunt of Victoria is now in his fifth year of documenting the 'untold' stories from Canada’s remaining Second World War veterans. Currently the Canadian War Service* Veteran population is estimated to be 9,297 (1,493 females and 7,804 males).  As Brunt traverses the country, he interviews these aging heroes, capturing their memories and experiences. He shares how, as Remembrance Days pass, the number of World War II veterans is rapidly declining, making it crucial for us to make a conscious effort to learn their stories and honor their sacrifices. The podcast includes portions of interviews from B.C. veterans Charlie Hammerton, Jessie Swail and George Brewster. "I'm hoping that this will make my generation and hopefully future generations more connected to this generation and wanting to know more of what they did,’ says Brunt. "If we can hold on to a personal story and put ourselves in their shoes, that’s really helping, and that's really making sure that we hold on to that history and don't lose it.” The conversation highlights the reluctance of veterans to share their traumatic experiences, revealing the profound challenges they faced upon returning home, particularly in seeking mental health support. Many suffered in silence, harboring the weight of their experiences for decades. Eric's interviews serve as a therapeutic outlet for these veterans, allowing them to finally share their stories, sometimes for the first time. The podcast offers insights into the diversity of veterans' backgrounds, including Indigenous Canadians who served during the war. The treatment of Indigenous veterans is especially emphasized, as they often experienced acceptance and equality within their regiments during the war but were subject to discrimination and inequality upon their return. The episode includes the remarkable story of Reuben Sinclair of New Westminster, who became the oldest living veteran in Canada at 111 years of age. The Eric Brunt Collection will be released in 2024 when the Canadian War Museum launches its digital archives. Anyone hoping to share their story can reach Brunt at ericbruntmedia@gmail.com. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Neil Osborne of the Canadian rock band 54-40. Osborne shares insights and stories from his lengthy music career. Osborne discusses the band's enduring success, their approach to songwriting and the importance of live performances. The episode delves into their latest album, West Coast Band, and offers a glimpse into the creative process behind their music. Osborne's journey in the music industry began with a chance encounter with bandmate Brad Merritt in high school in Tsawwassen. The two bonded over their shared love for music, which eventually led to the formation of 54-40 in 1977. Their enduring partnership is a testament to their deep connection and shared interests. “We thought we were on a mission, we were on a mission,” said Osborne. “Then we, all of a sudden, weirdly, we had a career, record companies and that whole game.” The episode explores the evolution of the band's songwriting process. From early jam sessions to more recent experiments with thematic storytelling, 54-40's creative approach has evolved over the years. The band’s co-founder shares how their latest album was inspired by reminiscing about their experiences as a band during COVID and turning those stories into songs. The latest album was mixed by Adam Kasper, known for his work with iconic bands like Nirvana, Soundgarden and Pearl Jam. The album represents a literal storytelling approach, showcasing the band's experiences and stories in a straightforward manner. The episode includes a discussion of the song ‘Working on It’, which humorously captures the band's dedication and hard work. It's also testament to their commitment to delivering great performances to their audience. “We know it's a collective experience, especially with people that have seen us and followed us and stuck with us over the years,” said Osborne. “So that's the constant. And that's still the driving force behind why we're still here.” You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

On this edition of Today in B.C., host Peter McCully chats with two authors, Kathy Wagner and David Norwell, on the sixth edition of the ‘Made in B.C. Book Club’. In the first segment, David Norwell talks about A Complex Coast, a soul-searching personal account of his 1,700-kilometre solo kayak journey from Victoria to Alaska. The book contains many illustrations done by Norwell, who said it was a way for him to explain things that he couldn’t describe in words. “I had so much fun writing this book because it's also an ‘I Spy’, a maze, a recipe book and there's a crossword puzzle,” said Norwell. “I just really wanted to be playful with it. I wanted to illustrate and write something that people could be a little bit surprised by. The whole goal of the book is to help people on their own journeys and inspire people to go out on their own little adventures, however big or small.” In the second segment McCully, chats with Wagner about Here with You, a memoir of love, family and addiction. It's the powerful story of a mother struggling to save her son and the strength and hope for change she found in her grief. “Tristan had some successes during those six years because I was fighting for him and I was advocating for him in the only way that I knew how outside of the systems of care,” said Wagner of her son. “But there is nothing, and I know that even still today, there is nothing that a parent can do for a child who is not ready to seek help. I think that is one of the greatest shortfalls of our current system of care for people with mental health and addiction issues.” You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the album Wildflower as members B. J. Cook and David Foster were presented with a star on the BC Entertainment Hall of Fame's StarWalk. Host Peter McCully chats with Cook who talks about being a showgirl at The Cave Supper Club in Vancouver, before leaving to play the Elegant Parlour nightclub run by Tommy Chong. Foster and Cook were members of the Ronnie Hawkins Band, before Cook founded Skylark. “I suggested that we put our own band together. And this is before we were married,” said Cook. “We want to be together, so let's put a band together. And David said, ‘if you can get Doug Edwards, Steve Pugsley and Cat Hendricks, I'll put a band together’. When we came back, David went to Victoria. I had to stay in Vancouver. They were all available. So, I called David and I said, ‘you better come back, we've got our band.’” McCully asked Cook about the origin of the song. “Dave Richardson was David's really good friend,” said Cook. “He was a cop and he used to sit in his patrol car and write lyrics. Then he took it over to Doug Edwards with a stack of lyrics, or poems. Doug looked at Wildflower, and he said, ‘I wrote it in 20 minutes’. He said, ‘I just felt it. I loved it I just thought it was the most beautiful song.’” The song ‘Wildflower’ has been covered more than 200 times. “The combination of David's amazing arrangement, he was 23 years old. He was a kid,” said Cook. “And the magic of his arrangement of ‘Wildflower’, the beautiful song that it is, and then on top of it, Donnie Gerard's magnificent voice. If anybody else could have sung it, I don't think it would have been the hit that it was. I think the combination of all those things made it a hit record.” Cook talks about a run-in with Johnny Cash in her early nightclub days, dating Robin Williams and her daughter Amy Foster’s success writing songs for Michael Buble. The podcast contains the song ‘Wildflower’, as recorded by Skylark. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Mandy and Ryan Johnston, the founders of Sea Gods Paddleboards, who take us on an inspiring journey through their entrepreneurial adventure, sharing their remarkable story of turning a passion into a thriving business. From the beautiful beaches of White Rock, to shipping paddle boards worldwide, the couple's dedication to creating top-notch paddle boards is matched only by their commitment to promoting the sport they love. "We wanted to paddleboard on the ocean. We're living out here, and it's beautiful, and it's what we want to do with our two little kids,” said Mandy. However, they couldn't find boards that matched their vision. Fueled by their passion and an entrepreneurial spirit, they decided to embark on the journey of creating the perfect paddle boards. What sets Sea Gods apart is their commitment to both artistry and performance. Mandy discusses how they wanted to infuse creativity into their boards, making them not just functional but also visually appealing. They joined forces with artists to bring unique designs to life, ensuring that each board carries a specific theme that matches the feeling and purpose of the paddleboard, whether for yoga or adventure. As they navigated their path, Mandy and Ryan realized the importance of connecting with their customers on a personal level. They didn't just aim to sell boards; they aimed to build a community and share their love for paddleboarding.   "Rather than just selling boards, we were selling the idea of the sport and then helping people navigate all the different things that are out there,” said Ryan The couple share their adventure of getting on the TV show ‘Dragon’s Den’, the nerve-wracking experience of standing in front of the Dragons, and the lessons they learned during their pitch. The experience gave them valuable insights, including engaging with organizations like the BDC for business support. You can find more information on Sea Gods SUP Paddle Boards here. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Stephen Fearing, the singer-songwriter who has enjoyed both a successful solo career and member of ‘Blackie and the Rodeo Kings’ for more than 25 years. “Whenever we get back together, it's right back where we left off,” said Fearing. “And that's remarkable after 27 years. We've been through divorces and rehab and death, and we've watched each other grow old and lose family members and we've lost band members. We've been through a lot and it's still there. It's still very strong. And each one of us at this point cherishes it, I think is probably the right word.” Fearing discusses the band’s unique sound, a blend of different styles brought together by the individual strengths of the three vocalists in the band, Fearing, Tom Wilson and Colin Linden, and their ability to authentically cover a wide range of musical genres, from folk to blues to rock, all while maintaining their own distinctive style. The episode explores their collaborative albums, Kings and Queens and Kings and Kings, where the band worked with a diverse lineup of artists, including Emmylou Harris and Vince Gill. The podcast features the song ‘O Glory, lost those blues again’, from their latest album, Oh Glory, which was recorded remotely during the pandemic. Fearing discusses the challenges of remote recording and the unique dynamics that allowed them to continue making music despite physical distance. “There is a sense of being in motion that suddenly was curtailed, and it forces one to sit and reflect and think there's nothing else to do,” said Fearing. “It's the job ahead of you is to sit still and learn how to do that and be at peace with yourself. There are songs on the album that directly reflect that. I do think of it as a kind of spiritual feeling.” Additionally, the conversation touches on Fearing's experiences living in various regions, including Ireland, Ontario, Victoria and Halifax, and how each place has contributed to his perspective as a songwriter. He expresses his love for travel and how it has influenced his creative journey. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Colin Mochrie and Asad Mecci of ‘HYPROV’. The pair are set to bring their unique blend of humour and hypnosis to B.C. stages next month. Volunteers from the audience are hypnotized and then engage in spontaneous improvisational comedy alongside Mochrie, a comedy legend in the field who attended theatre school in Vancouver. “I love B.C. It was where I discovered improv. My family still lives there,” he said. “To me, (Vancouver) is hands-down like one of the most beautiful cities. Mountains, you’ve got the ocean, and every once in a while, you’ve got me.” The podcast explores the journey from inception to the huge success of the show, while sharing humorous stories and insights. Mecci, a master hypnotist, explains how he merged hypnosis with improv to create an unconventional yet wildly successful show. "We create an instant improv troupe out of the people who are on stage,” he said, discussing the unexpected hilarity that unfolds during performances. “They become an instant improv troupe with us.” The show has been a big hit from off-Broadway to residencies in Las Vegas. “When Assad says ‘we're looking for 20 people’, it's just a stampede,” said Mochrie. “Everywhere we go, no matter in Canada, in the States, small towns or bigger towns, people want to be a part of the show. They come up with just the best stuff that real improvisers would never come up with, just to keep me on my toes.” McCully asked about the secret to performing improv comedy and Mochrie tells the story of being in an MRI for 90 minutes under study. “The part of the brain that deals with self-criticism, activity goes away,” he said. “The part of the brain that deals with creativity blossoms. So somehow improvisers do naturally what Asad does through hypnosis.” The show will play in British Columbia in November, the dates can be found here. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca. You may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Dr. Reka Gustafson, chief medical health officer for Vancouver Island, about various aspects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and its implications. Gustafson emphasizes the unique opportunity the pandemic has provided to closely observe the adaptation of a transmittable respiratory virus in an age of advanced genetic and laboratory analysis. "One of the interesting things about this pandemic is that it gave us for the first time the ability to look at a generally transmittable respiratory virus in the age of advanced genetic analysis, advanced laboratory analysis and essentially watch it adapt to us and us adapt to it,” said Gustafson. The podcast delves into the importance of immunization as the most effective way to reduce the severity of COVID-19 infections. It also discusses the routine infection control measures to prevent transmission. Gustafson explains vaccination recommendations, emphasizing vaccines should be offered to various high-risk groups, including the elderly, individuals in long-term care facilities and those with underlying medical conditions. "The COVID vaccination is particularly important for these individuals, but available for anybody and recommended generally six months after your last infection or vaccine." Dr. Gustafson addresses common misconceptions about COVID-19, including the notion the virus hasn't changed and highlights the importance of understanding the evolving nature of the virus. "I think the biggest misconception that I still see is maybe the lack of appreciation of how much things have changed,” said Gustafson. “We can really now think of this virus as other viruses that circulate in our population that some people need to pay particular attention to and for which we have an effective vaccine that can reduce our likelihood of serious illness." The podcast reflects on the lessons learned from the pandemic, emphasizing the need for a measured approach to risk and the challenge of addressing societal impacts. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Wolfgang Depner, legislative reporter for Black Press Media. Depner explains the tone for the opening session of the fall sitting of the B.C. legislature was set by the BC Conservative party, who recently gained party status when Bruce Banman crossed the floor from the BC United Party. BC Conservative Leader John Rustad’s opening question was regarding SOGI 123 and MLA Banman stood in the house to talk about explicit content available in certain fictional books in public school libraries. Depner tells McCully: “The sound and the dynamic of the place has changed. It has made question period more interesting, one might say. It has given the whole legislature a different sound. Any number of speakers certainly from the NDP, certainly from the BC Greens have raised concerns about the tone in the legislature. The Conservatives for their part have said that they're just speaking on behalf of constituents.” British Columbia is in the first of a three-year trial period for decriminalizing the possession of small portions of hard drugs. The drug use bill received some fine tuning, with changes introduced under first reading. Homeless counts are updated as well as the average cost of renting and purchasing housing in British Columbia. McCully asked Depner about the proposed fines for BC Ferries, which include $7,000 for missing a sailing. “It's really hard to make an assessment how effective they will be,” said Depner. “But I would say it shows that certainly from the government's perspective that it wants to improve the service.” You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with legendary musician Paul Rodgers, known for his role in bands like Free, Bad Company and The Firm. Rodgers shares insightful anecdotes and reflections on his remarkable musical journey. "When we came to the end of the world, when COVID hit, everything came to a screeching halt and everyone was on lockdown,” said Rodgers, discussing the catalyst for his new album, Midnight Rose. “I ended up being at home sitting with an acoustic guitar and I thought, ‘I'll just go back over my songs.’” Rodgers reminisced about his early days in music, highlighting the valuable lessons instilled by his first manager, Joe Bradley. "Get there early, do a good gig, get the money,” he said. “I love that one. Get the money, right? And get home safe. And that's what we always did, and we try to do anyway.” The podcast delves into his humble beginnings, from receiving his first guitar as a teenager to forming his first band, Brown Sugar, the formation of Free with guitarist Paul Kossoff and the unexpected success of their hit song ‘All Right Now’, and his involvement in supergroups like Bad Company and The Firm, where he worked alongside iconic musicians like Jimmy Page. After the death of lead singer Freddie Mercury, Queen toured with Rodgers. “To be honest, we were only going to tour four or five dates for fun,” he said. “That's what the original plan was. But it turned into four years and two world tours and a bunch of live albums. Which were great, and a studio album too, so it was quite good.” Over the course of his career, Rodgers has had his hand in over 30 albums sold more than 100 million copies. His latest album, Midnight Rose, was recorded in British Columbia and marks his return to original music after 25 years. Rodgers credits his wife, Cynthia, for her instrumental role in the album's production and introduces the story behind one of its singles contained in the podcast ‘Take Love.’ You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Tyler Turner and Kayleen Vanderree, two remarkable individuals who participated in Season 9 of ‘The Amazing Race Canada’, finishing as runners-up. They talk about their journey, sharing insights into the challenges they faced, the lessons they learned and the remarkable experiences they encountered along the way. Over the course of three intense weeks, they navigated physical challenges, mental tasks and the unpredictability of the race. Turner's story of resilience following a skydiving accident showcases his determination to continue pursuing adventure despite life-altering injuries. Vanderree, a commercial scuba diver and travel blogger, brought her adventurous upbringing and diverse skill set to the race. From sailing to snowboarding, she had a wealth of experiences that proved invaluable during the competition. The podcast explores the dynamics of their relationship, emphasizing how ‘The Amazing Race Canada’ placed their partnership under a microscope. They candidly discuss the intensity of the race, their competitive spirit, and the challenges they faced as a couple. The podcast also touches on the incredible generosity of strangers they encountered during the race. Despite the prevalence of smartphones and GPS, they were amazed by the kindness of people who went out of their way to provide directions and assistance. This reaffirmed their belief in the inherent goodness of people, even in high-stress situations. “I knew it about Canada, but it just confirmed the generosity of the people that live here”, said Turner. “And we really did test that because we showed up in like the craziest stress, we're a mess and just screaming and yelling and they stopped their day and they'd find directions or help us out or whatever. So, it was really amazing, the generosity of Canadians”. Turner and Vanderree share anecdotes from their time on the race, providing listeners with a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges, triumphs and camaraderie that defined their experience. The mental challenges in particular emerge as some of the most daunting obstacles they faced, testing their problem-solving abilities and resilience. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

In a wide-ranging interview, host Peter McCully chats with the Leader of the BC United Party, Kevin Falcon. Falcon says the catalyst behind the party's name change from the BC Liberals was driven by members who wanted to emphasize a party focused on British Columbia's interests and uniting people around principles supporting a free enterprise, private sector-driven economy. “And through the course of that selection process, we came up with BC United,” said Falcon. “And I like it because I love the idea of unity and united. I really believe that in British Columbia, regardless of where you were born or what God you choose to pray to or you know, who you choose to love, I think it's important that people feel really welcome in a party that is anchored by principles and wants to try and get different results than we're seeing today.” Falcon strongly opposes the NDP's approach to drug decriminalization, labelling it a "reckless decriminalization program" without proper safeguards with negative consequences, such as open drug use in public spaces and the rising overdose death rates. He also discusses policy initiatives related to education, including the return of letter grades and restricting smartphone use in schools. The podcast episode also covers housing affordability, a pressing issue in British Columbia. Falcon criticizes the current government's approach, which he said focuses on taxing housing without adequately addressing the supply side of the problem. He advocates for streamlining the approval process for housing projects and reducing government taxes and fees on housing to make it more affordable for individuals and businesses. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Federal NDP leader Jagmeet Singh who discusses pressing issues such as rising inflation, the high cost of groceries, the housing crisis, healthcare, wildfires, and support for small businesses. Singh proposes a windfall tax on corporate grocery chains that have increased their profits during difficult times, with the revenue used to reduce grocery costs through rebates. “When people are feeling like the costs are high, they're right, the costs are high, in fact they're record high. And at the same time, corporate grocery chains are also posting not just any old profits, but record profits. And we said, wait a second. If your costs have gone up and you've kept your prices high enough to match your costs, then your profits would stay the same”. Singh also advocates for stricter penalties for consumer abuse and increased competition in the grocery industry. “We also need to make sure that we are following the competition bureau's recommendations, which is to increase competition, and we want to focus on local independent grocers and having more of them”. In a wide-ranging interview, Singh discusses the importance of expanding healthcare coverage to include dental care and medication. With the increasing frequency of wildfires across the country, Singh joined the call for the creation of a national firefighting force. Highlighting the overreliance on international firefighters and the need for a dedicated, well-equipped force to tackle wildfires promptly. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts.

On this edition of ‘Today in BC’, host Peter McCully chats with two authors, Kennedy Stewart and Margot Fedoruk, on the fifth edition of the ‘Made in B.C. Book Club’. In the first segment, Fedoruk, of Gabriola Island, talks about her memoir which has been shortlisted for Taste Canada’s Culinary Literary Award. Through dark humour and quirky characters, Feroduk reflects on marriage, motherhood, isolation, food and family. Cooking Tips for Desperate Fishwives is a memoir infused with recipes, from the Eastern European fare of the author’s childhood to more adventurous coastal B.C. cuisine. The very first line of the book catches readers attention: “The night I ran over Rick with my car.” “It was quite the night,” said Fedoruk. “And it's funny because I used to tell the story and that's how a lot of my stories came about. I'd tell them to friends and laugh or cry or a little bit of both. And then eventually I'm realizing ‘that would be a great opening to my memoir.’” There’s a recipe with the story for ‘Killer Lasagna’. In the second segment McCully chats with Stewart, the former Mayor of Vancouver. In the book Decrim, he outlines how ending the war on drugs and recognizing the overdose crisis as a public health issue will help reduce stigma related to substance use, increase access to health services and decrease harms related to criminalization in British Columbia. “What we're doing isn't working and what it's doing is costing people's lives,” said Stewart. “It is the number one killer of young people in British Columbia now, the largest killer of kids aged 10 to 18. We can't keep our heads in the sand here. You should really listen to the health professionals and the police who have written lots of informed reports on this, and we have to move in the direction that I outlined in the book, decriminalization, safer supply and really treating it like a medical emergency that it is.” If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts.

In this podcast episode, Peter McCully talks with best-selling author John Valiant, the author of Fire Weather: The Making of a Beast. In May 2016, Fort McMurray, the hub of Canada's petroleum industry and America's biggest foreign supplier, was overrun by wildfire and drove 88,000 people from their homes in a single afternoon. Vaillant warns this was not a unique event but a shocking preview of what we must prepare for in a hotter, more flammable world. Vaillant says that approximately 200,000 Canadians have been forced to evacuate their homes at some point during the summer of 2023. “That's the population of Regina,” said Vaillant. “That's a major Canadian city that has been forced from their homes. Wildfire for Canadians now is really a national security threat. It's a threat to public health and safety, but it's also a threat to our national security. It’s so destabilizing to have the entire city of Yellowknife basically on the road.” The conversation delves into the growing threat of wildfires in the context of climate change and the devastating impact on communities in British Columbia, Alberta and the Northwest Territories. Vaillant tells McCully what he learned from interviewing firefighters. “They're aggressive, proactive folks who go in there and save property, they save lives,” he said. “That's what they do. Imagine people like that going into a neighborhood and you can't save anything. These folks are dedicated to service and so to not be able to protect the citizens that they're charged with protecting it's really wounding. But I think the real injury is not being able to protect the community in the way that you've been trained to and the way that you really want to.” The podcast conversation discusses the changing behaviour of fire due to climate change, the influence of insurance companies in responding to these risks and the urgent need to address these challenges. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart, YouTube and Google podcasts.

Host Peter McCully talks with Jeff Hummel to update the efforts underway to salvage the SS Pacific in an update to a podcast interview earlier in 2023. On Nov. 4, 1875, the SS Pacific departed Victoria Harbour, B.C. and some 12 hours later, it was on the bottom. It collided with a ship called the Orpheus on its way to Nanaimo, sinking in the first few hours of a 100-year storm. Newspaper accounts at the time reported as much as 200 pounds of gold were onboard the SS Victoria. In 2022, after a dozen offshore expeditions, the wreck was found and Hummel’s company, Rockfish Inc., has been granted salvage rights by U.S. courts. Much of the technology required to find the wreck was built by Hummel and his team, including robotic dive vehicles. Hummel says the robots they have now are what are some refer to as a ‘flying eyeball’. ‘They're basically observation robots that just have a little grabber on the front,” he said. “We're building larger robots which are about the size of a small refrigerator. They have two robotic arms on them. One of them is a six-function arm, and the other one is a four-function arm. And we're designing and developing all of that technology ourselves.” McCully asked how the robotic vehicles are controlled when recovering artifacts. Hummel explained that the team has developed a unique method. “We plan on having the vessel on site, but the actual robotic operators will be located in Seattle in a control van, and the connection for the data will be through Starlink,” said Hummel. “We can run multiple robots simultaneously from the ocean with operators. “We believe that a lot of the artifacts on the Pacific are perfectly preserved. We expect to find things made of wool, things made of leather, potentially paper-preserved food. So if things were in glass containers with a cork or a wax seal on them, they could be completely, perfectly preserved. We expect to find incredible artifacts.” Once the recovery is complete, the Northwest Shipwreck Alliance (Hummel is a founder) hopes to create a museum dedicated to the SS Pacific. Updates on the progress of the recovery efforts may be followed here. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with renowned B.C. blues guitarist David Gogo, who shared insights into his musical journey, personal inspirations and his 2022 album release, Silver Cup. Gogo, from Nanaimo, has established himself as a prominent figure in the blues music scene, earning accolades such as guitarist of the year at the Junos and the Maple Blues Awards. Growing up, Gogo's love for music was fostered by his father's eclectic record collection, which featured the likes of CCR, Hank Williams, and blues legends like BB King and Taj Mahal. The musical inclination seemed to run in the family, as Gogo talks about his cousins, Paul and John Gogo, who are also accomplished musicians. Over the course of his career, Gogo has released 16 albums. His most recent release, Silver Cup, came to fruition during the pandemic. Gogo collaborated with his friend Steve Mariner, and together they recorded the acoustic album at his house. The inspiration for the album's title came from an antique silver cup bequeathed to Gogo by his late grandmother, which held sentimental value and sparked an interest in family history. McCully asked Gogo about his use of bottle slides. He explained the slide guitar technique originated in the Mississippi Delta and is an integral part of the blues genre. Gogo's preference is using glass slides, and he even shared entertaining stories of playing slide guitar with unconventional objects. “I think the weirdest one was, a guy walked up and he pulled out his glass eye,” said Gogo. “And I said, ‘wipe it off first’. So, he wiped it off. And I played slide guitar with his glass eye. I've done pool cues and eight balls and pool balls. But yeah, the glass eye slide, that was bizarre.’ Gogo brings a new single to the podcast entitled ‘You Used to Mean So Much To Me’. In addition to his musical endeavours, Gogo also hosts a podcast called Soul Bender. The podcast serves as a platform for sharing stories and memories from his encounters with renowned musicians. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

“It used to be that you would walk into your pharmacy and you would grab some toothpaste and get your medication and leave. But now I think that over the next few years, we're going to see pharmacies change into essentially health hubs," says Lindsey Dixon, a BC pharmacist specializing in healthcare education. Dixon joins host Peter McCully to discuss the new extended prescribing powers for pharmacists and the transformation of pharmacies into health hubs. Lindsey, a registered pharmacist with over 10 years of experience, explained that pharmacies are evolving to become places where individuals can access healthcare and sit down with a pharmacist for assessments. “The shift toward an appointment-based system will revolutionize the way pharmacies function. It's not just about dispensing medications anymore; pharmacies are becoming key players in providing healthcare.” These extended powers aim to ease the load on the healthcare system, particularly for individuals without a family doctor. Pharmacies are more accessible than many medical clinics and doctor's offices, with longer hours and multiple locations. Lindsey stressed that pharmacists' ability to provide immediate healthcare and assessments is a significant advantage. With the new prescribing powers, pharmacists can help patients by renewing prescriptions for chronic conditions, altering medications to address side effects, administering various injections, and even prescribing birth control. The expanded role of pharmacists in healthcare marks a positive change for both patients and pharmacists. Lindsay expressed satisfaction in being able to use more of her training and knowledge to help patients. She discussed her YouTube channel, which provides evidence-based health information to the public. Through interviews with experts and informative videos, Lindsay aims to make healthcare more accessible and empower individuals with knowledge. “Pharmacies are no longer just places to pick up medication. They are evolving into centers where individuals can receive comprehensive healthcare, medication reviews, assessments, and advice on managing minor ailments. The future of pharmacies as health hubs is promising, as they bridge the gap in accessible healthcare and provide valuable services to their communities.” You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Black Press Media journalist and award-winning filmmaker, Arnold Lim. Lim’s parents moved to Canada from South Korea, with just $5 in their pocket. When Arnold was born, his father put aside a certain amount of money to buy a camera to document his growth. “When I was 16, he gave that camera to me. I remember that moment and thinking to myself, ‘I am going to be a photographer one day. I'm going to tell stories through a lens,’” said Lim. Directing the feature film All in Madonna, which won numerous awards in 2020, Lim has followed it with his own story My Name is Arnold. It details the story of when he was 10 years old growing up in Blue River, B.C. “I was the only Asian kid in the school, and it wasn't always an easy experience,” he said. “People would hit me; they would call me names. No one cared, no one did anything. I didn't do anything.  It was a time where I went to school angry almost every single day. Maybe to process that and maybe for cathartic reasons, I wrote a short, I called it, My Name is Arnold.” My Name is Arnold recently won awards at the Vancouver Asian Film Festival, for Best Overall Short Film and Best Performance. Lim has worked as a photo manager at the last four Olympic Games and tells McCully of his experience in Japan and China during the COVID-19 pandemic. ‘(In Japan) The rooms are so tiny over there, I was getting claustrophobic,” said Lim “We weren't allowed to leave the room. So, we got stuck in the room and they were giving us food, three meals a day, a bottle of water with every meal. We couldn't go anywhere. It was so challenging. And then when I was in China, when you go to eat or go into the restaurants, everyone is wearing those white hazmat suits. So, you're the only one not wearing that. So, the foreigners are put into a hotel and then they have people in hazmat suits feeding you. It's a really surreal experience.” You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Tom Hooper, with Kevin Kane and brother Chris played their first gig in junior high school, in Kelowna. ‘I think it was 1978. My grade seven dance, my elementary school. I was in grade seven and Chris and Kevin were in grade nine. We were playing some pretty cool music. Everything from Honky Tonk Woman from the Stones to ‘Just what I needed’ by the Cars, A Matt the Hoople song, an Iggy Pop song. I think the teachers didn't know what to expect of us.’ The band's breakthrough came with their critically acclaimed album "Treehouse" in 1987. The album featured the hit single "All the Things I Wasn't" and showcased their ability to craft catchy melodies and poignant lyrics. Grapes of Wrath's music often explored introspective themes and featured rich harmonies that set them apart from other bands. Hooper, who is a self-admitted ‘Beatles nerd’, says it was a ‘Pinch me moment’, when they were at Abbey Studios in London to mix their album ‘These Days’. ‘We basically were put up the flat, which is attached to Abbey Road (Studios). In fact, I was just playing a gig last night and I was telling the story of my bedroom in this flat. There's a picture of the Beatles hanging out in this bedroom and Ringo standing on top of the fireplace mantle. And that was my room. And my courtyard window opened up to the Abbey Road Studios. It was pretty incredible,’ says Hooper. One of the more successful Canadian bands of the eighties and nineties, ‘The Grapes of Wrath’ are back out playing gigs in 2023. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart and Google podcasts.

Darrell McKay of Vancouver Island has made four visits to Ukraine to help with humanitarian efforts in the war-stricken country. Host Peter McCully talks with McKay, a retired civil engineer who has been using his photography to highlight the conflict in Ukraine. McKay discovered that stretchers were in short supply, leaving Ukrainian soldiers with a crude alternative: dragging bodies using a rope in a figure-eight pattern. Determined to make a difference, McKay focused on the positive and initiated a fundraising campaign. He successfully raised funds, procuring 102 portable stretchers, costing $37 each, to aid the soldiers on the front lines. In his mission to provide relief, McKay helped with delivery of crucial medical supplies to the city of Kramatorsk. Hemostats, chest seals, and tourniquets were among the items supplied to support the soldiers in dealing with shrapnel and bullet wounds. McKay recalls heartwarming encounters with the grateful recipients, who exhibited unwavering hospitality and appreciation for the aid they received. “The oldest person was a 94-year-old lady,” said McKay. “She'd just been taken from her home and it was a town near Bakhmut. She said she was in the garden. They came to get her out to evacuate her. She looked at her garden, locked her front door, and she left her place. And when we talked to her, she said that she was quite comfortable. She's got faith in her boys. She said she knows she's going to go home. Her boys will win. That just shows you the will of the Ukrainian people, said McKay. McKay says he was taken by surprise by how much people care. “One friend in particular e-mailed me $1,000, which was amazing,” he said. “She just said, please give this to some of the people in refugee centre that may need help.’ So, I sorted this ‘thousand dollars into envelopes. When I saw a family in need that I could tell was really in dire straits, I'd give them this envelope. On the envelope it said ‘A gift from Canada.’ People were quite surprised. A couple of them actually came up to me crying and said ‘thank you very much.’ The money was enough to get a hotel room for a couple days in Poland and a few meals, just enough hopefully to bridge in between leaving their country and getting to their new refugee centre.” You can find out more about McKay’s efforts see photos of his travels on his Facebook page. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

On this edition of ‘Today in BC’, host Peter McCully chats with two authors, C.C. Chris Humphreys and Adrian Raeside on the fourth edition of the ‘Made in B.C. Book Club’. In the first segment of ‘Today in B.C’, Chris Humphreys, a playwright, actor, voiceover artist, and award-winning author, captivates readers with his latest book, Someday I'll Find You, a compelling tale of intrigue and romance set against the backdrop of the Second World War. His father, a British fighter pilot, and his mother, a Norwegian spy, met and fell in love amidst the chaos of war. Humphreys explains that the story provided him with an opportunity to understand his parents better, exploring the complexities of their lives and the choices they made. In the interview, Humphreys discusses his acting career. His father, Peter, and his grandfather, Cecil, were both actors. “It was actually even worse than that because my mother's parents were also actors, so all four grandparents were actors,” he said. “So, I, call it the curse in the blood rather than the family business. I think I was doomed to pursue the family line.” Humphreys acknowledges the influence of his theatrical experiences on his writing. His novels are character-driven, with the dialogue playing a significant role in moving the story forward and revealing the depths of the characters. Raeside explores the emotional journey of a young boy coping with the loss of his beloved pet in a heartwarming new book, Paradise for Cats: Return to Rainbow Bridge. This companion book to the widely acclaimed Rainbow Bridge to Pet Paradise focuses on the unique bond between humans and their feline companions, offering solace and a touch of humour during times of grief. Raeside, a renowned cartoonist and author with more than 20 books to his credit, spoke about his inspiration for Paradise for Cats. "I got the idea from looking at some of these pet loss publications,” he said. “Some of them quite serious and some of them quite sad. And I thought, for a young kid, they don't want to be traumatized any more than they are from losing. Probably their best friend their entire life is a dog or a cat. So, I wanted to do something that was humorous, but also ended on an up note to say that, ‘look, everything's still OK.’" In addition to Paradise for Cats, Raeside's recent books include The World According to Dogs: An Owner's Manual and Wildlife for Idiots, which showcase his ability to entertain and enlighten readers with his witty observations on pet behaviour and wildlife. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Tom Jackson, an actor, musician, activist and philanthropist as he was in Parksville recently in concert performing as part of the S.O.S. (Society of Organized Services) 55th anniversary legacy celebrations. Jackson has dedicated himself to philanthropy and humanitarian work. He is the founder of the annual Huron Carole concert series, which has raised more than $250 million for social services. His unwavering commitment to making a positive impact on society has earned him numerous accolades and recognition, including the Companion of the Order of Canada. “If part of your DNA is helping others, you are guaranteed success,” said Jackson. “Doesn't matter what field you're in, if that's part of your makeup, you'll be more successful in your field than you can ever dream of. That's the one thing that I've learned. The second thing? ‘You can teach that’. You don't have to teach a child kindness. You only need to be kind.” Jackson's music often explores themes of love, hope and the challenges faced by Indigenous communities in Canada. Through his music, he has become a prominent advocate for Indigenous rights and a voice for marginalized communities. Beyond his musical talents, Jackson has also made a name for himself as an accomplished actor. He has appeared in numerous film and television productions, showcasing his versatility and range as a performer. One of his most notable roles was in the hit Canadian series North of 60, where he portrayed Chief Peter Kenidi, a character that resonated with audiences and earned him widespread acclaim. The actor co-stars in Sullivan’s Crossing, which has been renewed for a second season and will be distributed to the U.S. and abroad. Jackson tells host McCully about sitting in the captain’s chair in Star Trek, and starring along Liam Neeson in the movie Cold Pursuit. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart and Google podcasts.

Host Peter McCully chats with folksinger/songwriter John McLachlan, who has recorded four albums of Gordon Lightfoot music and performs a tribute show as well. McLachlan says he was introduced to the music of Lightfoot at an early age. “I was in Grade 4, and Ms. Dolan, the student teacher, brought a Gordon Lightfoot album to school and she played the ‘Canadian Railroad Trilogy’.  I just was captivated by its story. It told an awful lot about the workers, which I thought was a neat thing about it,” said McLachlan. The podcast includes nine Lightfoot songs as sung by McLachlan, including ‘Summer Side of Life,’ a topical song about the Vietnam War and the young men in the summer of their youth. “I found it a really evocative song to do, all these years later as an adult,” said McLachlan. “It has a very different feel to it, and it took me back to then. I was only 11 when the song came out. So not as aware of the Vietnam War, not with the depth that you have as a being a bit older. I think it really captures the feel of the time and what was happening then.’ McLachlan had seen Lightfoot in concert 30 times over the years and tells the stories behind his favourite songs, including one that bumped Paul McCartney out of the number one spot on the music charts. The acoustic arrangements are in the spirit of the originals but with some different arrangements and are performed with Marc Atkinson and Scott White. “My band's approach to all of this, when I've looked at these songs to record them myself, I've tried to find ways to either do them a little differently or make them more personal to me,” said McLachlan. “I didn't want to do them the same. I didn't want to play ‘Sundown’ with exactly the same solo. How can I compete with his classic version?” You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Ashley Davidoff, a public education officer with the Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness about how to be prepared for, and respond to, emergency situations like wildfires and floods. “Regardless of the nature of the emergency, there are three steps to take to be better prepared,” said Davidoff. “Know your hazards, make a plan, and prepare emergency supplies, including an emergency kit and grab and go bags. The best way to prepare yourself for a wildfire would to be create that emergency plan with details like how you'll communicate with loved ones and where you'll meet in the event of an evacuation. Because knowing what to do in advance will reduce anxiety and help keep you focused and safe.” Davidoff talks about what items should be included in grab-and-go bags, the content of which can vary given the situation. “You'll want to ensure that your grab-and-go bag includes things like ready-to-eat food and water, a phone charger and battery bank, a small battery powered or hand crank radio, a battery -owered or hand crank flashlight as well,” said Davidoff. “Extra batteries for those items. You want to make sure you have a small first aid kit and personal medications, anything that you may need, personal toiletries and items such as an extra pair of glasses or contactless lenses and solution if you use those. Include a copy of your emergency plan, as well as copies of important documents like insurance papers and identification, some cash and small bills just in case those interact, and credit card systems go down in that emergency. You want to make sure you have seasonal clothing and an emergency blanket.” Extreme heat is responsible for the highest number of weather-related deaths annually in British Columbia.  “Heat stroke is absolutely an emergency, and overheating can be harmful to your health, and it could be potentially deadly,” said Davidoff. Information on formulating emergency plans for various emergency scenarios can be found here, as well information on financial emergency assistance. Emergency information updates can be found here. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart and Google podcasts.

Host Peter McCully chats with actor Greyston Holt, who has played a security guard on Alcatraz, a cowboy, sang with Deanna Carter, been a werewolf on Bitten, appeared in a romance movie with his wife (actor Cristina Rosato), had the gritty lead role in House of Chains and more. Holt’s early dream was of being a musician; however, he says he enjoys working alone. “I like not relying on other people,” he said. “And as much as I enjoy the collaborative aspect of being in a band - the creative part of it, you still have different personalities you're relying on. And so acting is a solo endeavour. You have a team, I have my manager, my agent, but the creative part is all me.” Holt’s work has seen him nominated for two Leo Awards in Canada and a Golden Maple Award – a Los Angeles-based award presented to Canadians who have become prominent in American entertainment. He has appeared in numerous popular television shows and films, solidifying his presence in the industry, including Night Agent a recent top-five show for Netflix. One of his most notable roles was as Clayton Danvers in the supernatural drama series Bitten. Holt's portrayal of Clayton, a charming and powerful werewolf, garnered him widespread recognition and a dedicated fan base. Holt said it was by far his most challenging role. Holt’s preparation for the role took him hiking into the North Shore mountains of Vancouver with his friend's dog. “I went off the trail and I stripped down completely naked and just ran around the forest and howled,” he said. “And I think the dog was a little confused, to be honest. In the show it's part of the lore. I just felt like tapping into that wild side of me.” Holt and Rosato found themselves in a unique situation early in the COVID-19 pandemic. As no other working actors could be within six feet of each other on the set, they became the first couple to film in Canada in a movie called A Wedding to Remember, shot in Kelowna. Holt recently became a father (daughter Sienna), saying it has been both incredible and challenging. “I think it's given me a new patience, a new sort of perspective on life, which is helpful for my career,” he said. “It's a new chapter in our lives and we're taking it on.’ If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Carolyn Thomas, a Mayo Clinic trained women's health advocate, a heart attack survivor, blogger, author, and speaker. Recently, she was a speaker at the Canadian Women's Heart Health Summit held in Vancouver. Every seven minutes a Canadian woman is diagnosed with heart disease, every 20 minutes a Canadian woman suffers a heart attack. The author of ‘A Woman’s Guide to Living with Heart Disease,’ Thomas says that heart disease has completely changed everything in her life. ‘I've had to learn to pace myself every day interrupted by naps sometimes. For example, even chatting with you I considered an outing. I call these days, one outing day or two outing days or rarely I'll have a three-outing day. I used to have five outings on my way to my first outing, pre heart attack. When you go from running around with your hair on fire to being very cautious and careful. It's a very profound change.’ One of the key contributions Carolyn Thomas has made is shedding light on the gender disparities in heart disease. Traditionally, cardiovascular disease has been seen as a predominantly male issue, with research and treatments primarily focused on men. However, Thomas recognized that women often experience different symptoms and risk factors, leading to misdiagnosis and inadequate care. ‘The first time I went in, I was told that I was in the right demographic for acid reflux and I should go home and see my family doctor and get a prescription for antacids. I felt so embarrassed that day that when my symptoms continued, which of course they did, I was too embarrassed to go back to emerge. I believed that doctor, he told me very confidently, it is not your heart. Plus, I'd rather have indigestion than heart disease,’ says Thomas. Thomas is working to bridge this gender gap by educating both women and medical professionals about the unique aspects of women's heart health. Through her blog and book, Thomas has been able to reach a wide audience, offering insights and practical advice on topics such as recognizing heart attack symptoms in women, managing risk factors, and navigating the healthcare system. Her blog ‘Heart Sisters’ for women living with heart disease can be found here. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Cassie and Maggie MacDonald, traditional Celtic musicians from Nova Scotia. They are known for their exceptional musicianship and dynamic performances that blend traditional Celtic music with contemporary influences. The duo was playing a number of stops in B.C., the province where their parents got together. ‘Their love story is quite romantic. They dated when they were younger and then fell out of touch. And our father moved all the way to Vancouver - they weren't in contact for a long time. Our Mother decided to fly out to visit him on a whim. And then they were married, I think later that year. So, the British Columbia air was rife with romance at that time,’ says Cassie. Born and raised in Antigonish, Nova Scotia the sisters grew up in the rich musical traditions of their Celtic heritage, the duo was influenced by their grandfather, celebrated fiddler Hugh MacDonald. They began performing as a duo in 2010, and quickly gained a reputation for their intricate fiddle and piano arrangements, tight vocal harmonies, and captivating stage presence. Cassie is a master fiddler who has won numerous awards for her virtuosic playing, including the 2016 Canadian Folk Music Award for Instrumental Solo Artist of the Year. Her playing is steeped in the traditions of Cape Breton fiddle music, but she also incorporates influences from other Celtic and folk styles. Maggie is a talented pianist who has developed a unique style of accompaniment that draws on her classical training as well as her love for Celtic music. She is also a gifted vocalist, and her soulful singing adds depth and emotion to the duo's performances. Cassie and Maggie have released several albums, including "Sterling Road" and "The Willow Collection," both of which have received critical acclaim. McCully asked Cassie MacDonald how she saw the music industry evolving in the future. ‘Music is the soundtrack to your life. So, every bit of it, the tough bits and the fun bits and the, ridiculous bits. They all have a place in the music.  I think if you can come up with music that reflects who you are, you'll never be lost in a way. People get really upset about things changing and streaming and revenue streams. And it's the same in every industry. We can't really fight against the wave. You have to carve out,’ as Maggie said, ‘Your own perspective and stay true to that.’ The podcast also features the Gaelic contemporary tune, ‘Seileach’. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Alison Stanley, a veterinarian technician, and Karen Kamachi, the thrift store manager from RAPS, the Regional Animal Protection Society Animal Hospital in Richmond, a full service, not-for-profit veterinary clinic. RAPS funds medical services through donations and its thrift stores, now the focus of a TV show, ‘Pets and Pickers’. The staff at the Animal Hospital work tirelessly to offer low-income pet family’s access to top healthcare. To fund these treatments, RAPS has a unique solution: their thrift stores. ‘When people think not-for-profit, they think we're a very low-cost veterinary clinic,’ says Stanley. ‘That's not the case. We are average cost. Any owner can apply for financial assistance. We have a subsidy program, and we also have payment plan programs.’ An energetic and dedicated group of animal loving “pickers” comb through donated mystery bins containing abandoned storage locker items, all money raised goes to pay for vet care and lifesaving surgeries. It’s a one-of-a-kind “pets and pickers” relationship with an uplifting mission: to help animals and their people. Kamachi says that donations at the thrift store have gone up considerably since the show began airing. ‘I've had people from all over North America send me stuff in the mail. I have had jewelry, stamps, I've had money come from all over North America because they saw ‘Pets and Pickers. And our general quality of donations has gone up because now people know what we do.’ Marty Kramer - former rock and roll tour and road manager for musicians including Neil Young, The Guess Who, Burton Cummings and now is their star volunteer and journeyman picker for RAPS.  You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

On this edition of ‘Today in BC’, host Peter McCully chats with two authors, Susan Musgrave of Haida Gwaii and Sam Wiebe of New Westminster, on the third edition of the ‘Made in BC Book Club’. In the first segment of ‘Today in BC’, Susan Musgrave talks about two books. The first a book of poems entitled ‘Exculpatory Lilies’ was dedicated for her late daughter and husband and has been selected for the shortlist for the prestigious 2023 Griffin Poetry Prize. Musgrave also worked with Chef Lisa Ahier on her book of stories and recipes from Tofino’s SoBo Restaurant. ‘You can find great recipes online now for anything. So, I think the stories and cookbooks are what interests people and they like to make the food, but they like knowing the story behind something. It's a combination of the Southern influence on her cooking and the way she includes all the people who work for her. And she has profiles about that, or people who are friends but who bring her ingredients,’ says Musgrave. Sam Wiebe is the author of ‘Sunset and Jericho’. Set in Vancouver it is the latest installment of what’s been described as "Terminal City’s grittiest, most intelligent, most sensitively observed contemporary detective series". Wiebe told McCully, ‘Vancouver has been, a really important part of the Wakeland series since the beginning. I chose it because it's the city that I know the best. It's where I grew up and I think that its history really lends itself to the detective crime fiction genre. we have this beautiful picture, postcards, image, a very cutting edge, progressive city. And then there's this darker side. I think that putting those sides in conversation is just really good for the kind of books that I write.’ For his book, Hell and Gone, Sam Wiebe received a silver medal from the Independent Publisher Book Awards.  You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Raymond Salgado joins Host Peter McCully to talk about competing in the television show “Canada’s Got Talent.’ ‘Once I got the opportunity to participate this year, it really wasn't something that I was expecting. A lot of the memories, a lot of the opportunities coming my way.  This whole experience has been very validating to me.’ Salgado says that he had just finished auditioning for ‘American Idol’, when the opportunity arose. ‘It's interesting because at the time I just came off of auditioning for American Idol and that didn't really go my way at the time, I think that was a huge turning point for me because I realized, it's not that I wasn't vocally ready, it was just not the right time in that moment.’ The only person in British Columbia to make it as a finalist, Salgado talks about the talented people in and around Nanaimo on Vancouver Island. ‘It's just crazy.  There's so much talent in Nanaimo and it's really cool to see people just being able to share their gifts with our community and being able to share that on a world platform. There's just so much talent.  I'm not surprised, but I'm also just so happy that we've been able to represent well with music and with the arts.’ Lauren Spencer Smith and Cameron Whitcomb competed on ‘American Idol’ and Carlow Rush and Jacksun Fryer of ‘Funkanometry’ recently competed on ‘America’s got Talent,’ all of Nanaimo. The podcast contains Salgado’s version of ‘Feeling Good’, which launched him into the final. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Black Press Media Journalist Lauren Collins who examines policing transitions in BC. Collins spoke with SFU criminology professor Robert Gordon, and a former police officer himself, and tells McCully what he had to say regarding restoration of provincial police service in B.C. and the creation of at least three regional police services. ‘The all-party committee report that was done on reforming police, the police act in BC, which, was released a couple of years ago now after some public and public consultation, extensive public and professional consultation that, all party committee, was unanimous in its recommendations that amongst other things, there'd be a provincial police service to replace the RCMP, coupled with regional police services.’ As Collins explains, at a news conference Public Safety Minister and Solicitor General Mike Farnworth was asked if now is the time to be starting the conversation toward regionalization. ‘I know it’s very much a topic of discussion,” Farnworth said, noting there’s a “significant amount” of work and consultation involved with local governments, whether it was on the lower Island or Metro Vancouver.’ Last November, Premier David Eby promised $230 million over the next three years in police funding for 250-270 RCMP vacancies in rural detachments and regional units, as well as to hire more officers for specialized units such as major crime, the sexual exploitation of children unit and money laundering. You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Brad Merritt, bassist and one of the founding members of Canadian rock band 54-40 with Neil Osborne. The two met in High School in Tsawwassen. The band’s first gig December 8th, 1980 was at the Palomino Club in Port Coquitlam, the night that John Lennon was shot in New York. ‘I’m driving out there and I hear that on the radio that John Lennon's been shot. it was just a gut punch. As anybody that, loved music and loved the Beatles as I did,' said Merritt. ‘I don't think there was any greater context than what happened, but he ended, we started, it was something, I tell you, Peter, he is one of the most influential musicians. And he was an icon and he represented something that was bigger than himself and a true artist.’ With his distinctive bass lines and solid rhythm section work, Merritt has been an integral part of the band's sound for over three decades. In addition to the music, 54-40 has been active in social and political causes supporting organizations like amnesty International, the Canadian Cancer Society and Every Woman's Health Clinic in Vancouver. Merritt says, ‘It's what we do. I think that art can be separate from that, but on a human level, it's something that people should involve themselves with. As a band, as an entity that has a chance to influence people or raise money, we like to do that. McCully asked Merritt how he feels about the new artificial intelligence writing and chat programs and what possible effect could that have on the music industry, good or bad? ‘I'm sure that artists will use it as well. And there's nothing we can do about it. It's going to be the new reality, so I think acceptance is going to be important. And then how it's actually utilized.  I think people yearn for authenticity, And something is, generated by chat GPT. Eventually music's going to be composed by it as well. And some of it's going to be catchy and some of its' going to be commercialized. I have a feeling that humanity will be able to sort this out. My point is that there has to be an essence of the artist in whatever's created, whether AI is used or isn't used, it won't stand the test of time.’ It's not just their musical range that makes 54-40 special. The band's lyrics are also a major part of their appeal. Over the years, they have tackled a wide range of topics, from love and relationships to politics and social justice. The podcast contains the new single to be released in the fall of 2023, the title track from the upcoming album ‘West Coast Band.’ The group will be touring extensively as well. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment. (West Coast Band - 0sborne / Merritt / Glenn / Johnson)

Host Peter McCully chats with Darren Lee of Langley who has won numerous awards for his tribute performances, including the "Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist" award at the prestigious Elvis Presley Enterprises competition in Memphis, Tennessee. Lee had a successful run in Las Vegas performing nine shows a week for 11 years as a star in the American Superstars Show, as well as a show in Maui for 4 years. McCully asked Lee about his resemblance to Elvis, and asked if he gets strange looks now and again when out at the grocery store. ‘I have a normal job where I drive a truck for a restaurant supply company. if a restaurant needs a stove or an oven or napkins or dishes or whatever, I deliver it. There are days where I will have a show that night, and so I'll go to work fully on - hair and makeup and everything and it's, Hey it’s Elvis! Another day they'll see me with a hat on my head, not shaving for a week. And then it's, Oh my God, it's Elvis! It goes with the territory and it's cool.’ Lee's tribute to Elvis is a celebration of the music and legacy of one of the greatest entertainers of all time. His attention to detail is impeccable, from his signature jumpsuits to his trademark hip-shaking dance moves. Lee’s fans rave about his energy and charisma on stage. Robin Lee, Darren’s brothers is also an Elvis tribute artist. ‘He was left-handed when he was born, but my mother turned him right-handed. When he dances, it's the complete opposite of me. So, we've done a lot of shows that we call the Presleys. It's the two of us doing the show. We don't say you are Jesse and I'm Elvis, but it was basically, what if Elvis's twin brother hadn't died at birth, would there have been two of them?' You will find a listing of Lee’s upcoming B.C. performances here. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Dr. Reka Gustafson, Chief Medical Health Officer for Vancouver Island and the former Medical Health Officer for the City of Vancouver talk about COVID, the Flu, current immunization plans and long-term effects of COVID. Dr. Gustafson says that the (Flu and RSV) respiratory season was unusual when compared with the previous 5 to 10 years but would be considered predictable. Recently the World Health Organization downgraded the the COVID Pandemic declaring it is no longer a global emergency as the number of cases, hospitalizations and deaths has been mostly stable the past few months. ‘What that declaration really meant is that for years, countries prioritized preventing COVID. Above other things that were important for the health and well-being of the population. It's no longer the case,’ says Gustafson. ‘Are we going to be dealing with COVID 19? Yes, we are. We deal with influenza. We deal with RSV, but we also really need to make sure that we return to full education, full participation in society connecting with our families, connecting with our friends, because every one of those things is critical for health.’ McCully asked what the most common misconceptions about COVID are. ‘I think one of the most common misconceptions is a lack of appreciation of how much this infection has changed. I would say that there is a number of behaviors that people have adopted during the pandemic, and I think there is a misconception that it would be of benefit to continue those,’ says Gustafson. The Chief Medical Officer also talks about mental health issues, and long-term health effects of COVID, and the challenge of review of the response to the pandemic. ‘One of the challenges that I think is going to be hard to do, is to actually have a very rational, critical look at what was done, not defensively, not in an attempt to justify the actions taken, but meaningfully and humbly reviewing what worked, what didn't work, what was critical and beneficial, what probably wasn't necessary and did harm - to make sure that we have an educated and learned response next time.’ You will find ‘Today in B.C.’ podcasts on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, iHeart and Google podcasts. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Dr. Robert Thirsk who holds the Canadian record for the most time spent in space at 205 days. Born in New Westminster, Thirsk joined the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) as part of the first group of Canadian astronauts. He went on to work on the development of space robotics and remote sensing applications, and he conducted research in microgravity and life sciences. Thirsk spent 188 days aboard the International Space Station (ISS) in 2009. ‘Mars is the ultimate destination. It's the dream. We want to go to Mars to answer some fundamental questions that humanity has. Did Mars ever harbor life? We don't think there's life there today. But 3 billion years ago, we think that Mars teamed with oceans and lakes, and typically where water is found, there's a chance that life might have evolved there as, well. So, the Mars astronauts of 15 or 20 years from now will not find life there, but they may come home with a fossil. That'd be the news event of the 21st century,’ says Thirsk. Following his time with the CSA, Thirsk served as Chancellor at the University of Calgary. On the podcast, McCully asks Thirsk about Artificial Intelligence, the Artemis Project and whether he thinks we are alone in the universe. ‘I do think there's a very good chance that there is intelligent life out there. Having said that I'd also like to say that it could be that we're it as well in terms of intelligent life. So, it behooves us to take good care of this planet, be good stewards of this planet - because we might be it.’ Throughout his career, Thirsk has received numerous awards and honors, including the Order of Canada, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, and the NASA Exceptional Service Medal. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

Host Peter McCully chats with Sean Jamieson, a mild-mannered Financial Planner during the week and B.C. Ghostbuster Super Fan on the weekends. Jamieson got started in the group when his wife hired the group to join them for his birthday, after attending a movie at a local theatre. ‘They kidnapped me at the end of the movie, put me in a jumpsuit, and put me in the Ecto One, and took me out into the public to do some Ghost Busting. We ended up at a mall in Langley. Where we couldn't take two steps without everybody coming up wanting to take pictures.’ The B.C. Ghostbusters are not unique fan group, there are hundreds of groups around the world, says Jamieson. ‘There are multiple chapters in many provinces and many states, I don't think every province has a chapter registered yet, but there's certainly Ghostbusters in every province and hundreds of chapters across the U.S. and around the world. There are some countries that have really taken this by storm. Singapore, for example, has thousands of members in their Ghostbusters chapters, and they all showed out in force. Back when the 2016 Ghostbusters movie came out, they showed up at the premiere all in costume.’ The B.C. Ghostbusters make appearances at various events and have been known to make appearances at children’s birthday parties. ‘Last year we were asked to come out and do an appearance at a five-year old's birthday party,’ says Jamieson. ‘It was outdoors in a park.  When we showed up at the park, the area where the picnic was being set up for the party was already all decorated.  And everything was Ghostbusters. The tablecloth was Ghostbusters. The streamers in the trees were Ghostbusters. there was flags everywhere. Ghostbusters, this little boy was full Ghostbuster's jumpsuit wearing his proton pack already. This guy's five. This movie came out in 1984 and this guy knows all the lines and he's five! He was so excited to see us.’ B.C. Ghostbuster appearances are for charity donations to S.P.C.A., B.C. Cancer Society and B.C. Children’s Hospital. If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.