Better Than Not

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of a return visit with Tizneem Jiancaro, PhD, master coach and engineer. We explored a wide range of topics in this episode including the nature of perception, the evolution of AI, the importance of memory and beliefs, and the journey of self-discovery. Tizneem talked about the significance of mystery in the human experience and the need for p...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the good fortune of a return visit with renown bassist, producer, composer and arranger Peter Cardinali. Through Peter’s extensive career, he’s been part of the evolution of music recording and seen the changes first hand from analog to digital formats from inside the industry. Peter shared more stories about his iconic $45 bass that is still his bass of c...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the privilege of talking with Tony Keller, long-time columnist at Canada’s national newspaper The Globe and Mail. Tony writes on economics, politics, public policy and international affairs. I invited Tony on to talk about his recent article on immigration in Canada, which is one of the best depictions of what we've experienced that I've read. Tony talked...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of a return visit with Canadian artist Kirk Sutherland to talk about his world of art. Kirk shared his unique approach to teaching art, emphasizing the importance of observation and the ever-changing nature of color. We talked about the intersection of art and technology, particularly in the context of AI and digital art. Kirk's insights o...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the distinct pleasure of a return visit with Michael Butler, PhD of Astrophysics. Michael is a speaker with Apologetics Canada. We again explored the intricate relationship between science and God with a particular focus on Michael’s area of expertise—quantum gravity. We discussed how both science and religion seek to explain the world. Michael emphasized...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of speaking with Sylvain Lapointe, trumpet player and founder of Buzz Brass, an award-winning brass quintet that blends classical chamber music with innovative performance. This is the third episode where I talk with artists who will be part of this year’s Valley Concert Society’s season at the Matsqui Centennial Auditorium in Abbotsford. Buzz...

In this episode, I had the distinct pleasure to welcome Kristal Toews, Pastor of Discipleship at Northview Community Church, to Better Than Not. Kristal leads the team responsible for the in-depth and remarkable Bible studies at Northview that I've often talked about on the podcast. Kristal talked about her journey in becoming a pastor, growing up in a missionary family, and the impact of cult...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I again had the pleasure to talk with LEGO Certified Professional Robin Sather, LEGO’s first certified professional in the world. We began our discussion around LEGO’s evolving landscape with the rise of knockoff brands, the importance of building experiences, and the impact of LEGO on creativity and storytelling. We explored Robin's recent projects, the art...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the privilege to talk with Alone: Season 9’s Adam Riley, a professional alpaca shearer and adventurer. Adam shared his journey from introverted, book-reading child in the UK to seasoned traveler and survivalist—though he doesn’t think of himself as one. He talked of his many adventures across sea (soloing the Pacific Ocean) and land including time in both...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the privilege of a return visit with Barry Keane, the long-time drummer for the iconic Gordon Lightfoot. Our conversation continued from where Episode #102 left off. We again delved into Barry's extensive career in the music business including many of his collaborations with notable artists like Andy Kim and appearances in venues like the legendary Mas...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of a return visit from Pastor Joshua Scott. When last we chatted (Episode 39) Joshua was still pastor at our church, so that's where we began, with his transition from single church pastor to overseeing multiple campuses at Northview Community Church. We talked about leadership and how Joshua’s heart is in preaching. He shared his passion...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the distinct pleasure to be joined by long-time friend and marketing executive Craig Evans. We talked about the old, the new and a lot of the in between from our rock band days to our respective corporate careers while ruminating on the lessons life teaches only through experience. We touched on advertising, the restaurant business, the music world and so...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of talking with Kenneth Emig, a transdisciplinary artist and consultant. Kenneth described his journey from high school bass player to acoustics expert and award-winning artist. He shared insights from his music industry experience, acoustics knowledge, and telecommunications work, to highlight the importance of collaboration across discipline...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of a return visit with friend, scientist and pilot Blake Steels. We talked a range of topics in this episode from the impact of replacement musicians in iconic bands to the legacy of the Avro Arrow. Blake talked about flying adventures, environmental change, military aviation, and the complexities of space exploration. We talked on the implica...

This is a special episode of Better Than Not, dedicated to remembering those who fought in war and returned and those who lost their lives, both sacrificing for the freedom we enjoy today. For this podcast, Bob Gardham returned to discuss the significance of Remembrance Day. Bob spent much of his career in Veterans Affairs where he helped create a website to honour veterans and organized a number...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of a return visit with Whitney Schreck - leadership entrepreneur and consultant. Though we started with her new house, we were quickly into her world of creativity, psychology and leadership both in and out of the workplace and their connection to community and relationships. Whitney shared her insight on creating cohorts for professional grow...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of a return visit with actor, filmmaker and author William C. Cole. Our conversation followed the recent success of his short film “The Mythical Cave.” The film was selected for showing at 2025 Cinefest in Sudbury ON as part of CTV's Best In Shorts program. Bill talked about the joys and struggles of being an actor, filmmaking, and the evo...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of talking with one of my nephews Isaiah Gardham, an engineer and talented musician. We explored Isaiah's journey into music and how he found his passion in high school. We delved into the intersection of music and engineering and the balance between pursuing a passion and a profession. Isaiah shared his experience of attending Berklee Col...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of talking with Stephen Nordin, musician, former firefighter and assistant fire chief. Steve talked about his journey from lead singer to fire fighter and his drive to save a University of British Columbia firehall. Steve spoke about mental health, the role firefighters can play in the community, and the intricacies of making real change. We d...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had a return visit from friend, entrepreneur and agent Max Tremblay, only this time in video. Max is the reason Better Than Not exists. And that’s how we started the episode continuing our most synchronistic friendship. Max spoke candidly about his personal journey, his spiritual awakening and the potential of podcasting as a tool for social change that in ess...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of a return visit with author and entrepreneur Scott Walker. We explored the themes of creativity, identity, and happiness. Scott shared his journey of navigating writer's block and redefining his world beyond being a writer. We discussed the science of happiness, the importance of community, and the impact of rapid technological change on...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the privilege to speak with internationally renown cellist Roman Borys, Artistic and Executive Director of Music Toronto and co-founder of the Gryphon Trio. This is the second episode where I talk with artists who will part of this year’s Valley Concert Society's season at the Matsqui Centennial Auditorium in Abbotsford. The Gryphon Trio will perform o...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure to again speak with (this time in video) Dr. Sophie Redlin, a medical doctor, expedition doctor and filmmaker in the UK. We spoke about the complexities of emotional expression in high-stake situations found in professions like medicine or during extreme expeditions. Dr. Redlin explored themes of moral injury, the importance of community in he...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure to speak with investigative journalist Sam Cooper of The Bureau. Sam took me through his journey into journalism and the alarming realities of money laundering and corruption in Canada. He explained the 'Vancouver model' of money laundering, its connection to the fentanyl crisis, and how it impacts the housing market. He emphasized the...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the privilege of speaking with Pastor Jesse Schellenberg of Northview Community Church’s Mission Campus. Jesse talked about his journey to become a pastor, the true essence of Christianity, and the importance of humor in teaching. We delved into the nature of existence, the relationship between faith and science, and the vital role of the church in society...