The Pulse

"Send us a text about this episode!" (23:18) Nanaimo blues artist David Gogo recently attended the Juno Awards with his sixth nomination. Gogo discusses his music career spanning over 30 years, his influences and his approach to songwriting. He also talks about his fondness for dressing sharply for performances. The podcast contains the tune “Diamond in the Rough”. (08:50) Cheryl Dill, p...

"Send us a text about this episode!" (22:58) From Truck Driver to National Science Host: “Quirks and Quarks” host Bob McDonald of Victoria shares his inspiring journey of how a university dropout became one of Canada's most beloved science journalists through simply saying "Yes" to opportunities - in his memoir, “Just Say Yes”.  (12:00) Parksville's volunteer-run Recy...

"Send us a text about this episode!" (07:19) Ken Neden from Arrowsmith Search and Rescue discusses the fundraising campaign for a state-of-the-art thermal drone. He details how the new drone would greatly enhance their search capabilities by distinguishing people through thermal imaging, a significant upgrade from their current equipment. Neden says,"We're finding a lot more us...

"Send us a text about this episode!" (08:24) Lloyd Derry, entertainment director of the Parksville Beach Festival Society unveils the exciting performer lineup for Rock the Park (August 8-10) featuring Prism and the Powder Blues Band, alongside tribute performances, and talks about a special performance by Chilliwack on July 12. Derry says the sound system has been upgraded and “Will be...

"Send us a text about this episode!" (24:24) Natalie MacMaster discusses her musical journey, reflects on her Cape Breton fiddle music heritage, her professional career spanning decades, and balancing touring with raising seven musically talented children with Donnell Leahy. MacMaster shares memorable performances, including playing with symphony orchestras and touring globally while she...

"Send us a text about this episode!" (08:20) Jeremy Perkins, owner of the award-winning French Press Coffee Roasters shares his journey from being a professional viola player in London to becoming a coffee expert on Vancouver Island. He discusses the complexities of coffee sourcing, the importance of ethical considerations in the industry, and his philosophy on roasting techniques. (29:2...

"Send us a text about this episode!" Captain Canada, who came out of retirement to address recent political tensions regarding Canada's sovereignty chats with Dave Graham. "Being polite doesn't mean passive. We're like a hockey player, respectful of the game, but ready to drop the gloves when necessary,” says Captain Canada. Through various street interviews, (“You Sa...

"Send us a text about this episode!" Former Parksville Mayor Chris Burger, shares his compelling 1987 Sasquatch encounter in Whiskey Creek. "It was a giant ape. With long hair... its arms were spread out, and it was looking at us", Burger described his encounter while with two friends. His experience led him to embrace the local Sasquatch lore, even featuring Bigfoot merchandis...

"Send us a text about this episode!" “Participate in a Flying Phil Memorial Video” On this episode of the Pulse Community Podcast, Memories of Flying Phil, and how you can be a part of memorial video project being produced by Pancake Productions. "Paradise Found: PQB Solving the Doctor Shortage" Dr. Edward Aasman, is one of eight new healthcare professionals recruited to the Pa...

"Send us a text about this episode!" Dave Graham and Peter McCully welcome Jennifer Bate, Executive Director of the McMillan Arts Center (The MAC), who discusses the historic building's significance, upcoming renovations, and its role as a cultural hub.  "I think that every community needs an artistic hub, a centre. Every artist needs a place where they feel that they have a se...

"Send us a text about this episode!" This episode of The Pulse Community Podcast features an in-depth interview with rock legend Randy Bachman, discussing BTO's upcoming "Back in Overdrive" tour starting in Victoria in April. Bachman shares the fascinating origin story of "Taking Care of Business," including the serendipitous appearance of a pizza-delivering pian...

"Send us a text about this episode!" The Pulse Podcast with Peter McCully & Dave Graham features earthquake seismologist Taimi Mulder, who discusses seismic activity around Vancouver Island and addresses common misconceptions about earthquakes. She explains the region's unique geological position on the Juan de Fuca plate system and discusses the potential for a major earthquake...

"Send us a text about this episode!" Hosts Dave Graham and Peter McCully explore two significant topics: Donald Trump's controversial suggestion about Canada becoming the 51st state and the possibility of having another Prime Minister from British Columbia. The episode features candid street interviews capturing diverse local opinions on these matters, in a segment entitled “You sai...

"Send us a text about this episode!" Hosts Peter McCully and Dave Graham bring listeners a chat with Meghan Stewart of True North Distilleries of Qualicum Beach, British Columbia's first female-owned and operated craft distillery. Stewart discusses their innovative approach, commitment to using BC-sourced ingredients, and their recent National recognition as Most Innovative Craft Di...

"Send us a text about this episode!" This episode hosted by Peter McCully & Dave Graham showcases two generations of community leaders working to create positive change in their respective spheres.  Janel van Dongen of Nanoose discusses her role as chair of 100 Kids For Change Oceanside , a youth-led philanthropy organization where members meet quarterly to pool their $10 contributio...

"Send us a text about this episode!" Hosts Peter McCully and Dave Graham chat with Staff Sergeant Travis de Coene from the Oceanside RCMP, who provides crucial insights into current scams targeting the community, emphasizing the importance of skepticism toward unsolicited calls requesting money transfers or personal information. He shares valuable advice about holiday season safety. Accl...

"Send us a text about this episode!" This episode of the Pulse Community Podcast with hosts Peter McCully and Dave Graham, features interviews with two key guests. Peter Jory discusses the district's new cell phone policy, declining student enrollment, and challenges facing the school system post-COVID. He highlights the policy's positive impact on classroom environments and th...

"Send us a text about this episode!" Podcast Hosts Peter McCully and Dave Graham delve into the festive spirit of Parksville Qualicum Beach. They kick off with highlights from the Tigh Na Mara Toy Drive, celebrating record-breaking contributions of gifts and donations.  The episode also features Robin Mair and Monica Scott, co-founders of Mint Cleaning Products, recounting their thrillin...

"Send us a text about this episode!" The Pulse Community Podcast's debut episode features interviews with two local entrepreneurs: Brian Webber from Fireside Books and Jordan Schley of Care2Talk healthcare. The podcast, hosted by Peter McCully and Dave Graham, explores local business innovation and community connections. Brian Webber shares insights into the local book market, highl...