Better Than Not

In this episode of Better Than Not, I was joined by returning guest Siavash Kianpour--who now sells technology. Our conversation centred around the ever evolving world of technology and selling it. We discussed his transition from working with technology to selling it. We covered self-driving vehicles to drones to how advances in automation impact the world we live in. We explored how technology a...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I was joined by Bob Gardham, my uncle. This was a special episode for me in that I got chat with my father’s brother who is 16 years his junior (he’s closer to my age than my father’s). Our heartfelt conversation spanned decades of family history, personal anecdotes, and reflections on societal changes. Bob spoke about his early years of growing up in Prince Edw...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I was joined by Kiri Jane Erb, Director of Theology at Soul Edge Ministries, and a mom, teacher, speaker and writer. We dove right into Kiri's journey from a secular upbringing to a life dedicated to theological exploration and leadership. She explained how her experiences across continents have shaped her understanding of faith's role in addressing exis...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I was joined by author and speaker Peter Burrell. We talked about his two books “Free of Judgment” and “Marriage by the Book,” exploring the themes of marriage, spirituality, and personal transformation. Peter explained the inspiration behind writing the books and shared insights on how changes in perspective can lead to a deeper understanding and harmony in rel...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I welcomed Elizabeth and Marcel Bergmann, who make up the Bergmann Piano Duo. This is the first episode where I’m talking with artists that will perform at this year's The Valley Concert Society at the Matsqui Centennial Auditorium in Abbotsford. The Bergmann’s will open the 43rd Season on Thursday, October 2nd, joined by violinist Jasper Wood and cellist Su...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I welcome back friend, musician and music aficionado Craig Collett. Lots of music talk again in this episode and the transformative power of music through the lens of legendary musicians like the late Brian Wilson. Craig talks about how soundscapes and heartfelt lyrics not only shaped the music industry but touched so many worldwide. Craig shares stories of insp...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the privilege of a return conversation with adventurer West Hansen (first time on video). I first talked to West after he led the Arctic Cowboys, a four-person kayak team, to be the first not only to kayak through the Northwest Passage in one season but the first to kayak the passage period. In this conversation, West had just completed the Yukon 1000, a 1...

In this episode, I had the privilege of talking with Barry Keane, the renown drummer for the late Gordon Lightfoot. For 48 years, Barry performed along side his friend Gordon Lightfoot. In our conversation, Barry recounted the serendipitous events that led him to connecting with Lightfoot and being part of the North American music scene including unbelievable stories like that of recording the ico...

In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with friend Carolyn Garton, who is currently doing missions work in the Ukraine. Carolyn shares her transformative story from the comforts of Canada to her “boots-on-the-ground” service in Ukraine amidst the ongoing war. She recounts the joys and challenges of living in a war zone, her commitment to humanitarian work and the profound impact of her f...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure of talking with sports writer Scott Wheeler, who today writes for The Athletic of The New York Times. He’s written for the Toronto Star, the Globe and Mail, the Toronto Sun and the National Post. He’s also authored the book “On The Clock: Behind the Scenes with the Toronto Maple Leafs at the NHL Draft.” Scott shared his story from local newspa...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the pleasure to speak with Robin Sather, a LEGO Certified Professional Builder. We explored his journey from childhood toy enthusiast to professional LEGO builder. We discussed the evolution of LEGO, the impact of the internet on the LEGO community, and the creative processes involved in building large exhibits. Robin shared insights from his experience de...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I had the privilege to speak with Lieven Callewaert, the director of a global consortium exploring the interconnectedness of housing, financing and wellbeing. We discussed the personal and societal implications of the housing crisis, addressing the systemic issues within the housing market as a whole. We explored the multifaceted challenges and innovative soluti...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I welcome back film director Nicola Rose to discuss her latest film, Magnetosphere, which is set to release on all major streaming platforms July 22. We delve into the challenges of indie film distribution, the creative process behind directing and writing, and the impact of being brought up in a creative household. Nicola shares insights on navigating health ch...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I was pleased to welcome our Lead Pastor Mark Burch at Northview Community Church in Abbotsford BC. We discussed Mark's journey in becoming a pastor, the importance of youth ministry, and the art of preaching. Mark shared insights on church leadership, the impact of the pandemic on church dynamics, and the need for a welcoming church environment. He emphasiz...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I’m joined by musician and President of Alma Records, Peter Cardinali. Peter talks of his early musical influences, his journey from playing accordion to bass, and his experiences touring Europe at a young age. Peter shares defining moments in his career in particular the transition from live performer to session player and working with artists like Anne Murray....

In this episode of Better Than Not, I am joined by returning guest Payman Kianpour, founder of Kepstrom. In this conversation we explore the intricate relationship between design and human emotions, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, love, and respect in collaborative processes. The discussion delves into what Payman called - forming, storming, norming, and performing - highlighting how navi...

In this episode of Better Than Not, I am joined by an old friend Blake Steels. Our conversation explores our shared history, Blake's diverse career journey from music to nuclear physics, and his current role in real estate. We discuss the importance of music in our lives, the impact of education, and the significance of social connections. Blake delves into the environmental implications of nu...

In this episode of Better Than Not, Dr. Michael Butler, an astrophysicist from the University of Saskatchewan, joins me to discuss the intersection of science and faith. The conversation explores how scientific principles can support biblical understanding, the challenges of evolutionary theory, and the role of AI in modern research. Dr. Butler shares his journey from a Christian upbringing to a c...

Returning to the Better Than Not Podcast in this episode is author Scott Walker. In our candid conversation, Scott talks about trying to figure out what’s next in his creative journey. Having immersed himself in writing for the last six years, he had reinvented himself as L.A. Scott in the shared writing world of Cozy Vales from our last conversation. But he noticed something was missing. He talks...

Returning to the Better Than Not Podcast in this episode is the host of The Cody Tucker Show and historian, Cody Tucker himself—only this time in video! Cody is back with lots on the go. His new book “And Now You Know” is out, filled with stories like those in his popular reels connecting strange and fascinating facts about movies, music, history and more. His book was published the same day he ap...

Returning to Better Than Not in this episode is actor, author, writer, director and filmmaker William C. Cole. We talked more about Bill’s books this time around–Love Lonely and Who Lies Beside Me. We also talked a lot more about Bill’s acting with a behind-the-camera description of what an actor experiences while filming. What the camera captures and we see as viewers are quite different to what...

In this episode, I am joined by Doug Dueck, the Founder and President of Well of Plenty. A father of three and grandfather to six, Doug is an entrepreneur with a background in farming and real estate development. He not only knows how to put technology together but how to connect talented people—a true business leader—as you will discover in our conversation. Our discussion covers his founding of...

Returning to Better Than Not podcast in this episode is friend and comedian Scott Stewart. Scott brings a surprise to this episode, which you’ll soon find out, I was not anticipating and in-line with his last visit titled--No Risk, No Reward. Scott performs stand-up in Los Angeles area. You can find Scott on Instagram at @scottstewartcomedy or the many comedy stages in L.A.

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Christopher Wright. Chris is the International Ministries Ambassador of the Langham Partnership International, a consortium of trusts founded by John Stott, a position previously held by Stott. Chris has been an Anglican clergyman for over 40 years and recognized as an Old Testament scholar. He’s also written over 40 books. Born in Belfast, Ireland, Chris was or...

In this episode, I am joined by Jake Gold. Jake is the co-founder of The Management Trust, a 6-season Canadian Idol judge and the manager of iconic Canadian band The Tragically Hip. With over 40 years of managing talent, Jake has seen a lot, an understatement by any measure. Born in New Jersey, Jake grew up in Toronto, started his career by managing a friend’s band, and never looked back. Jake tel...