Calgary Culture: The Perspectives YYC Podcast

Babur Ilchi - Uyghur Advocacy

Perspectives YYC — Fri, 06 Nov 2020 08:55:00 -0700

This episode I speak with Babur Ilchi. He's a photographer, a podcaster, and most importantly an Uyghur. His people are under oppression by China and through their colonial actions, Babur believes his people are subject to a genocide. Our discussion highlights his roots in his culture and country. His work to highlight all the suffering of the Uyghur people. And he apparently likes pineapple on pizza. I mean... talk about controversy. If you're interested in learning more about the Uyghur peoples, check out his podcast Tarim Talks Podcast.
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Thanks, as always, to the Alberta Podcast Network for your support.

Alex Williams - Podcaster and Sandwich Aficionado

Perspectives YYC — Fri, 04 Sep 2020 09:00:00 -0600

Alex Williams

I met Alex a few months ago in our Podcast Brunch Club. He asked to interview me, and I asked to interview him in turn. He allowed me to appropriate his warm up routine for interviewing - a process that I think has really helped me to connect with my guests (for my other podcast) and which I am truly grateful. He’s also got a sandwich named after him. Which is pretty cool. However, he hates peanut butter so... I'm not sure we can still be friends. Look for him and his podcast My Wax Museum. I don’t know when OUR talk comes out - but you’ll just have to subscribe to his podcast to keep listening for that. Shameless plug. Here’s my chat with Alex and for now, the conclusion of this season of Perspectives YYC.

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This episode is brought to you by the Alberta Podcast Network - locally grown, community supported. The APN exists to provide support and community to local podcast initiatives here in Alberta.

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This episode's sponsor are CPA Alberta - Chartered Professional Accountants are here to help you navigate your personal or business financial planning during the COVID pandemic; and The Calgary Foundation - The Foundation facilitates collaborative philanthropy by making powerful connections between donors and community organizations for the long-term benefit of Calgary and area. In 2019-20, Calgary Foundation saw $35.4 million in new contributions, had an asset base of $1.0 billion and granted $54.9 million to 996 charitable organizations.
It is the strategic partnerships with our generous fundholders and effective nonprofits that enable us to do great work and build a vibrant community. The strength and value of a community foundation is reflected in a strong and sustainable charitable sector.

Caine Chow pt. 2 - Discovering Womanhood

Perspectives YYC — Fri, 14 Aug 2020 10:29:54 -0600

Caine Chow and I sat down last February to focus on her journey finding her authentic self. Her discovery of Womanhood. Her unique perspective both as a Calgarian, 2nd generation Chinese Canadian, and her own life experiences help me frame some of the questions about a world that I'm foreign to. Our first talk focused largely on her entrepreneurial energy in building Kokedama but also hinted at how much of that was tied into her being true to her emerging self. As we discuss, a "self" that has likely been present since her birth.
Thanks to Caine for the time and as a caveat, the episode has been delayed through all of these world (and personal) changes so if you want to keep or catch up with Caine and where she is now, check her out on her instagram @thetransplanter
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This episode is brought to you by the Alberta Podcast Network - locally grown, community supported. The APN exists to provide support and community to local podcast initiatives here in Alberta.

This episode's APN referral is to Repodcasting - a project by cousins Lucia and Janet who ask what movies could have been with different casting choices and production events. You can check their conversations out on any streaming platform or head to albertapodcastnetwork.com for their work and the ever-growing pantheon of Alberta podcasting content.
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This episode's sponsor is CPA Alberta - Chartered Professional Accountants are here to help you navigate your personal or business financial planning during the COVID pandemic.

Sasha Ivanov - Technology and Art

Perspectives YYC — Mon, 09 Mar 2020 12:00:00 -0600

Sasha Ivanovic. Programmer, Teacher, Creative

Two years ago I met a very fascinating man who was really into computers. He showed up at an art show I put on and we struck up a conversation about technology and art. I then found out he was teaching at U of C and he gave me the opportunity to work with his students on building an art app. While it didn’t conclude in anything market ready, we’ve since kept in touch about that next opportunity to bring technology and creativity together.

Sasha Ivanov talks to me about the tech world of today and his field of evolutionary computing. Warning - if you’re frightened of AI, algorithms, and computers in general, this will probably not assay any of your fears. But if we can get more people like Sasha running the show, I’m sure we can delay our inveitblae robot overlords for some time and keep making amazing interactive and expansive art together.

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Podcasts like Candian Podcast Award Winner Cross Pollination. A podcast focused on that buzz word it’s impact. What happens when you combine different fields, knowledge, and talents to create something new? Listen to Cross Pollination to find out. Click on the Business and Marketing section on the Alberta podcast network homepage albertapodcastnetwork.com

Alice Lam: Calgary Community Builder and Advocate

Perspectives YYC — Thu, 20 Feb 2020 20:00:00 -0700

On this episode I sit down with Alice Lam, an incredible entrepreneur and Calgarian motivated by culture and community building. We met through mutual friends Caleb and Kitty, owner and operators of Sought and Found Coffee Roasters in Crescent Heights. They told me of this mystical woman landlord who built night markets and backyard community parties and was scouring the city for like minded people to help stimulate arts and culture, even offering contacts through her property management career to access spaces for shows and events. I have since learned that her connection to the city is one that defines her. Everything she does is underlined by an innate desire to push calgary forward into the collaborative environment we all desire. Hear her vision for the city we live in, where she comes from and how her life has shaped her vision of what Calgary can be.
Whether it’s working to develop neighbourhoods, building artists spaces, creating neighbourhood events, inventing a volunteer app (www.vollyapp.com), apparently writing children’s fiction, administrating for the women’s march, advocating for the Chinese Canadian community, and the myriad other pieces of her resume… I think we can all agree on one thing: There cannot possibly be a way that this woman sleeps!
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This episode is brought to you by the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. The APN is a project created by Karen Unland to provide support and community to local podcast initiatives here in Alberta. Podcasts like my new collaboration with Kyle Marshall: Kyle and Dave vs the Machine.
Kyle, a foolish genius with a heart of gold, has created a machine that is hell bent on world destruction, unless we comply with its demand to watch movies and review them. Movies from a specific year. In the order in which they premiered each week.

Our first season is 1999.

If you’re interested in flashing back to an era before Y2K but full of ominous writing and bleak outlooks and doomsday itself… look no further than The Machine forcing us to watch Message in a Bottle.

Seriously. We had to watch that piece of shit. And talk about it. On record. Find us on your podcast streaming platform. We’re apparently on instagram and twitter and stuff @kdvtm or find us on the Alberta podcast network homepage. www.albertapodcastnetwork.com

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Our main sponsor for this episode is the ATB Finacial Entrepreneur Centre.

Daniel had a dream to start his own electronic bike business in Alberta. Even though he had initial success on his own, he was having trouble finding a bank to help him. Then he saw the literal sign when he spotted ATB’s Entrepreneur Centre. With ATB’s help, he was able to expand his product line and e-store, and now has a successful online business. His story shows that when banking isn’t a barrier, great things can happen.
To hear more about Daniel’s journey, visit atb.com/daniel, or visit atbentrepreneurcentre.com to learn how ATB can help you and your business.

The Camera Store Show - Evelyn Drake

Perspectives YYC — Fri, 31 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0700

This week a Photography double header: I chat with marketing director, photographer and friend, Evelyn Drake. The Camera Store is putting on a 2 day show. He Said/She Said and The Camera Store Staff Exhibition. I got to take a quick peek at how the show came together and what makes the store, its employees, and its role in Calgary so unique. The Opening Night is Feb 7, from 6-10. The headliners Julian and Bianca Ferreira are doing a talk Feb 8 at 10 am. And then the gallery closes in the afternoon on the 8th. Don't miss this. It will be a great opportunity to see the creativity and passion behind the counters that makes the space so unique.

Thanks to Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB Financial. They've provided me great support and connection to other Albertan podcasters like It's a Conspiracy Theory. Andrew, Charlie, and Greg post their investigative conversations delving into the REAL matters at hand. And for other great podcasting content check out the APN at www.albertapodcastnetwork.com

The APN is proudly powered by ATB Financial and The Branch, their clubhouse, arts venue, and financial institution for creatives and cultural workers here in Alberta. Here in Calgary, they have an amazing location right on Stephen Ave on 1 st sw, looking up at the Calgary Tower. They are also sponsoring my favourite local art month Exposure Photography Festival right here in Calgary. Imagine, a whole month of incredible photography, exhibitions, talks, meet and greets, and hopefully generally warmer weather. If you don’t know about it, you need to check out The Fence. ATB is everywhere art is in the city and I’ve become grateful for all their tireless efforts to keep creativity growing here in the city.

For more info check out atb.com/thebranch

MRU's Intersections - a chat with Curtis Dez

Perspectives YYC — Fri, 31 Jan 2020 08:00:00 -0700

This week a Photography double header: I chat with friend, photographer, and professional Risk Manager, Curtis Desniatyk. Or Dez for short. He's put together a yearly show in collaboration with Mount Royal University and the Exposure Photography Festival, here in Calgary, Alberta. This year's show - Intersections - focuses on "street" photography - or, as I learned in our chat, more about the intersection of photography and humanity and culture. Curtis is always looking to connect his audience with other people and what better way of showing this than using the Main Hall of the University to get the word out.
selected artists: Curtis (Dez) Desiatnyk, Jeremy Fokkens, Asim Overstands, Zach Polis, Cary Schatz and Anne Tapler White.
The opening is Feb 6, 3pm at MRU. Artists will be in attendance with some presentations. But the work itself will remain up for a year! So definitely make some time to check it out. I know I can't wait to see it.

Thanks to Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB Financial. They've provided me great support and connection to other Albertan podcasters like PopCycle. Check out Eric and Chris's conversations and other great podcasting content at www.albertapodcastnetwork.com

For more info check out atb.com/thebranch

Caine Chow. Kokedama. Entrepreneur. Artists. Transitioning Female.

Perspectives YYC — Mon, 06 Jan 2020 10:00:00 -0700

A little while ago I had the pleasure of sitting down with my friend Caine Chow. Caine used to have a tiny hidden shop called Kokedama Atelier at the back of a men’s store called Stuff4Him. I was amazed when I saw these weird tiny trees and plants growing out of… moss balls. Fanstatic art. And such an eccentric and positive person. Male presenting at the time. My wife and I have had the pleasure of befriending Caine as a entrepreneur, artist, parent, and recently a transitioning female.

In this episode Caine and I sit down to discuss her life leading up to today. The parallels between pushing out of the corporate world and her movement to find her own identity were fascinating and I am planning to continue our conversation.

Check her work out @kokedama.ca

Last year I was accepted into the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB Financial. The founder Karen Unland has partnered with ATB Financial to bring local Albertan podcasts to bring to you local Albertans by connecting local sponsors from Alberta to us.

Sponsors like the TELUS World of Science Edmonton, home of the Canadian debut of Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes. This special exhibition runs until February 17 in Edmonton. It will feature more than 300 artifacts, costumes, props and interactive elements to bring the Marvel Universe to life. Imagine traveling through the mysterious mirror dimension of Doctor Strange, digitally transforming into Iron Man, and posing for selfies with Black Panther, Spider-Man, and other iconic Marvel characters

Visit telusworldofscienceedmonton.ca to buy tickets and check on special hotel deals if, like me, you’re not in Edmonton. Hey Marvel fans, this is the only place in Canada right now where you can see this exhibition.

Speaking of local podcasts. Karen herself has a great podcast where she sits down with her daughter to learn about what being a teen actually is about. Need some teen-spraining to catch you up on recent things? Press play on their conversations on “That’s a Thing?”

You can find their informational sessions on any podcasting platform or through the APN website www.albertapodcastnetowrk.com. They’re in the Movies and Pop Culture section. Just scroll to the bottom!

A quick sponsor note. Many of you know of my recent health issues. I mean who gets diagnosed with Epilepsy at age 41? #notbitter. And I’ve been very vocal of my amazement of the awesomeness of Alberta Health Services. But outside of particular chronic or major emergency issues and the speed in which their system integrates everything (at least compared to the Toronto I left 7 years ago) their amazing general services (shout out to 811! Nurses rock!) have been a key part when Helen and I worried our son Emerson was sick. As he grows older he’s learning to have great confidence in our health system. They have a quick 30 second spot they’d like to hear.]

Phillip David. Gambling Photographer

Perspectives YYC — Tue, 17 Dec 2019 12:00:00 -0700

After a few weeks to collect myself I’m here to get the Perspectives mojo back.

To start off, this episode is a conversation I had with Phillip David this past September. I had learned that my friend was moving away from Calgary and I wanted to know why. I first met Phillip probably in 2013 when he answered a Kijiji ad to buy a tripod from me! Ha. Down in the lobby of my condo. We exchanged socials and moved from there. He’s shown his work in both Perspectives art shows and in our magazine. He was a professional online poker player, as you’ll notice in our talk and has his take on both the art life, how it relates through his structured gambling experience, and his own insight into the Calgary art scened and why he was on his way back to Saskachetwan. Check out his work on instagram @innercitystreetcorner

Thank you to the Alberta Podcast Network for your support. Built by Karen Unland and powered by ATB Financial, the APN is an initiative to push Alberta run podcasts to the next level. Podcasts like Calgary-run “Eat more Barbecue” created by Ryan Sanderson. If you’re into meat and fire and things of that nature, check out https://eatmorebarbecue.ca or look at all our other friends at the Alberta Podcast Network on albertapodcastnetwork.com

A quick moment to thank ATB Financial. I’ve experienced first hand their direct support for Alberta entrepreneurs and local culture. ATB has recently built creative centres known as The Branch. One in Downtown Edmonton and one right here in Calgary on Stephen Avenue. ATB Branch for Arts and Culture understands artists don’t live by the rules of standard pay schedules. It’s a creative space for creative professionals and just one more way ATB will always be more than a bank. Visit atb.com/thebranch to find out how ATB’s Branch for Arts and Culture can support your career in the arts.

Talking "Street" with Calgary Photographer Alvin Paringit

Perspectives YYC — Tue, 01 Oct 2019 20:58:00 -0600

Last month I sat down with friend and talented photographer Alvin Paringit to get caught up on a busy year and discuss the "street photography" scene, inspiration, and the idea of photography itself. For others. For our selves. The role of the subjects, particularly in the public street photo scene. And to generally discuss both of our artistic existential struggles. He let me put a mic on him. This was the result.
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Perspectives YYC is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. The APN, created by Karen Unland, supports and grows local Alberta podcasts. Podcasts like my good friend Kyle Marshall’s Putting It Together. Kyle’s got a number of podcasts and is a prominent supporter of podcasting here in Calgary. This show is his expression of his love of Stephen Sondheim’s work as a musical composer. Each episode explores a different angle and perspective on a huge body of work. Conversations with industry professionals to get both a performer and audience’s view of the power of musical theatre. You can find Putting It Together on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or follow Kyle on social media @thekylemarshall

Street Art: Harvey Nichol

Perspectives YYC — Mon, 16 Sep 2019 14:00:00 -0600

Today we speak to Harvey Nichol. Harvey’s work is starting to pop up around the city. His latest mixed medium are built on skateboards and found items like broken frames! They’re incredible! We’ll get into how we met but more interestingly his tragic and full life. A life that really informs the layers you see in his work.

Perspectives YYC is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. The APN supports and grows local Alberta podcasts. Podcasts like Anticulture with Josiah Sinanan. Josiah's podcast project explores the nature of what cultural identity really means. He believes that the true "culture" of an individual and their lives is only found when we take the time to hear what they have experienced from their own point of view. His latest and season ending episode is with Rachel Doelzahl, the infamous activist in the states who was “outed” as a white woman posing as a black woman pushing for black rights. He spends time with her to get her story across while connecting with his own experiences as a mixed race individual here in Calgary. Challenge your concept of culture; his work can be found at josiahsinanan.com or through the APN the APN website: albertapodcastnetwork.com

On the topic of race and culture in Alberta, keep an eye out for: The Common Ground Podcast, a five-part series exploring narratives of hate and counter-hate in Alberta. Created by Irfan Chaudry, director of the Office of Human Rights, Diversity and Equity at MacEwan University in collaboration with Iman Bukhari from the Canadian Cultural Mosaic Foundation in Calgary. Prompted by the rise in police-reported hate crimes in Alberta, and a desire to examine what can be done to improve the way we look at each other. Find the podcast at macewan,ca/OHRDE (whic stands for Office of Human Rights, Diversity and Equity). Or search for Common Ground Podcast in the podcatcher of your choice.

This episode is brought to you in part by The Alberta Blue Cross Wellness Summit, a day to explore fresh perspectives and practices around wellness at work. It's happening October 10th at the Renaissance Edmonton Airport Hotel. Sign yourself up at thewellnesssummit.ca

Calgary Green Candidate Thana Boonlert

Perspectives YYC — Mon, 09 Sep 2019 09:00:00 -0600

I sit down with Thana Boonlert - street photographer , mountain hiker, and Calgary's Federal Green Party Candidate. This man loves a challenge. We chat about what he sees in this campaign; how he's dealt with his recent lay off/job loss; the impression of inner city Calgarians he's getting from endless door-knocking; the status of politics in general; and why he wants to work with the Green Party. He believes we need to have #courage to invest our votes in our personal beliefs and not in partisan strategy. He believes that the Green Party has the base scientific and empathetic roots to take Canada there. He believes this fall will reflect this! Let me know what you think! Is Calgary more Progressive than we think? If we get away from the fear of job loss and the boom-busy economy - do we care about the planet long term?
Thanks to Mayowa for the killer intro track Gorgeous - his work can be found on Spotify.
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Thanks, as always, to the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB, for their amazing support. Check out fellow Albertan Podcast The Read Along - A 30 minute podcast book club! Scott and Anita Bourgeous work through fun books, one chapter at a time with insight and humour so you don't have to!

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A quick note from our main sponsor ATB. Calgary Pride month is here so I wanted to highlight that ATB takes pride in all Albertans. That means standing up for what is right in the workplace, in our communities and alongside community partners, including fYrefly in Schools, Calgary Library's Reading with Royalty program, Edmonton and Calgary Pride, and the Calgary Sexual Health Centre. At ATB, we believe Pride is a stance. A stance for love, diversity, and self-worth. A stance for acceptance, in our workplace, in the communities we serve, and with our community partners.

Learn more at atb.com/pride

Like New Vintage | Secret Shop YYC

Perspectives YYC — Tue, 27 Aug 2019 10:00:00 -0600

Today we have a special conversation with the minds behind Like New Vintage and Secret Shop YYC - Nick, Tam, and Jimmy. We spend a bit of time to explore who they are, where they came from, and how they are working together to stimulate and grow creative culture here in Calgary. Their series of fashion, music, performance shows have been gaining traction here on the ground floor in Calgary. They have vision, direction, and great perspective on what’s hip and cool collaborative programs - like their upcoming show with Velour Clothing Exchange and Pulse Dance Studios aptly named “Something from Nothing”. If you’re listening to this before Aug 30, get online and get tickets ASAP as it’s small and looks to be a killer fashion/dance show at cSpace King Edward.

Shout out to Kyle Marshall of Media Lab YYC for the studio space, production, and awesome positive vibes. If you’re ever looking to chat with something who REALLY LOVES podcasts, you need to sit down with Kyle. And to last episode’s guest A.Y.E. who has donated another track from his album Soul Food for this production. Calgary collaboration!

You can find all involved parties online through attached links - check the description, instagram, website, posts to find out more! And thank you for your time. Even listening is the start of the collaborative energy we need here in the city to keep the ball moving forward.

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Perspectives YYC is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. The APN is the brainchild of Karen Unland who's only purpose in life, it seems, is to support and grow local podcasts. Podcasts like I Don’t Get It - a theatre and show review podcast based out of Edmonton by two writers Fawnda Mithrush and Paul Blinov, produced by Andrew Paul. Their detailed insight and synergy together as cohosts shines a great light into Edmonton from November 2013! They really have been around. In a good way. They can be found at idontgetityeg.com and through the APN website: albertapodcastnetwork.com

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A quick note from our main sponsor ATB. In light of our approaching Calgary Pride month, I wanted to highlight that ATB takes pride in all Albertans. That means standing up for what is right in the workplace, in our communities and alongside community partners, including fYrefly in Schools, Calgary Library's Reading with Royalty program, Edmonton and Calgary Pride, and the Calgary Sexual Health Centre. At ATB, we believe Pride is a stance. A stance for love, diversity, and self-worth. A stance for acceptance, in our workplace, in the communities we serve, and with our community partners.

Learn more at atb.com/pride

Calgary Hip Hop Artist A.Y.E.

Perspectives YYC — Mon, 19 Aug 2019 09:00:00 -0600

I had the honour of sitting down with A.Y.E. - The #yyc Hip Hop Artist blowing up Spotify right now with his latest album Soulfood the Autobiography Of. We originally met on Stephen Ave in the middle of winter when I had a projector and he had a music video to cast on the RBC building downtown! We speak about his musical family, his roots, his developing into the musician today. We get into modern culture and what he believes to be a lost concept: soul food, history, family versus the fast food generation, quick hits and no substance.

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Perspectives YYC is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. The APN was built by Karen Unland whose only purpose in life, it seems, is to support and grow local podcasts. Podcasts like

Ed - Conversations about the Teaching Life - a podcast for teachers by teachers hosted by Shane Lawrence. For more fascinating albertan podcast info get on the Alberta Podcast Network at www.albertapodcastnetwork.com on instagram facebook and twitter as @albertapodnet

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This episode’s sponsorship message if from The Alberta Blue Cross Summit, a day to explore fresh perspectives and practices around wellness at work. Hear what Linda Crawford of Alberta Blue Cross had to say about the summit:

It’s happening October 10th at the Renaissance Edmonton Airport Hotel.

Promotor TO of F.L.I. Productions

Perspectives YYC — Mon, 05 Aug 2019 09:00:00 -0600

In this episode I sit down with Taylor Odishaw-Dyck, aka TO, aka Fake James, and the creator of FLI Productions. We met initially through Austin Kamenz, co-conspirator and street artist. Together with Ty Javos, we built #WakeMotif - a private invite only art, music, performance event last March. What an incredible event. And now, from wake, we move to the Zoo #ZooMotif.

Our conversation covers Energy Exchange; the necessity of an environment of collaboration; Humility; "Ego-death"; and the Future of Calgary culture. Yet another example of why I’m convinced Calgary is about to explode with genuine creative energy. The next step for Calgary is collaboration and interaction. Exclusive Music provided by Vanilla Sun.

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Perspectives YYC is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. The APN is the brainchild of Karen Unland who's only purpose in life is to support and grow local Albertan podcasts. Podcasts like

Modern Manhood - a series created by German Villegas focused on the divergent and often negative concept of masculinity. He has spent the last 5 years developing this conversation and pulling apart social and cultural influences that seem to drive so many men to despair. And, shameless self-promotion - I’m on it! Albeit briefly, on his latest episode to discuss just this - the effect of media tropes on men! Check his work out at modernmanhood.org or through the APN site albertapodcastnetwork.com/social-issues

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A quick note from our main sponsor ATB. ATB takes pride in all Albertans. That means standing up for what is right in the workplace, in our communities and alongside community partners, including fYrefly in Schools, Calgary Library's Reading with Royalty program, Edmonton and Calgary Pride, and the Calgary Sexual Health Centre. At ATB, we believe Pride is a stance. A stance for love, diversity, and self-worth. A stance for acceptance, in our workplace, in the communities we serve, and with our community partners.

Learn more at atb.com/pride

Live Creatively With Matthew Mort

Perspectives YYC — Mon, 22 Jul 2019 10:00:00 -0600

Welcome to Calgary Culture: The Perspectives YYC Podcast

A series of conversations with a series of local creators - as we try to get serious about culture here in Calgary.

Season 3 episode 2

Today we sit down with Matthew Mort. The happiest man alive. If you don’t know him yet, you will. Because Matt Mort is everywhere. Except here. Unfortunately, Matt moved to Vancouver right after recording this, dammit.

Why did he leave us?

For happiness and positivity of course.

Before he left we got a chance to quickly muse about all things Matt and while a short 40ish minute interview could never encapsulate his energy, I hope this gets you a glimpse of why people chant his name.

Without further ado, ladies and gentlemen and everything around and in between. I present to you Matt Mort.

Check out Matt’s latest project in collaboration with Brad Lancaster @discoverconnection - their project to promote a life full of connection. Check them out on facebook or youtube!

Today’s soundtrack was provided by Handmade. A local band and extension of all that is Matt Mort, Handmade is available on Spotify, facebook, instagram, and the internet in general.

Perspectives YYC is a proud member of the Alberta Podcast Network, powered by ATB. The APN is the brainchild of Karen Unland who’s only purpose in life, it seems, is to support and grow local podcasts. Podcasts like Girl Tries Life - a series by Victoria Smith who runs a website by the same name. She was one of the first APN members to reach out to me after we discovered we had shared a guest, personal stylist Sarah Schmidt! If you’re looking for an Albertan woman who decided to say Heck Yes to life - who wants to show you how she’s built a life around doing instead of saying you will - check out her work at girltrieslife.com and all the other amazing podcast awesomeness at albertapodcastnetwork.com

Spoken Word Artist Audrey Lane Cockett

Perspectives YYC — Mon, 08 Jul 2019 03:00:00 -0600

Audrey Lane Cockett is a spoken word artist, poet, activist, performer, and scientist to boot! I had the honour of sitting down with her to discuss the creative process and lifestyle, both in the context of the Calgary art scene. We delve into her start in performing (hint: Grade 6 science project?!?!), existential and spiritual musings (of course. It's me.), and she graces us with a live performance too! Thank you Audrey Lane for being awesome and I hope you (the listener) connect with her as well!

Shout out to Media Lab YYC for the studio time, production, expertise, and general awesomeness.
Special shout out to Twizzie Ramos for the dope collab music track with Audrey Lane for the intro. Check out his album Sunflower Samurai on Spotify!

And special shout out to APN - The Alberta Podcast Network powered by ATB. We're officially on the roster and excited to join the Alberta Podcasting Community!

Calgary Culture: The Trailer

Perspectives YYC — Wed, 03 Jul 2019 15:00:00 -0600

Welcome to Calgary Culture: The Perspectives YYC Podcast. My show where I chat with current creatives and collaborators; entrepreneurs and fascinating humans. Together I hope we can offer you a glimpse of what's happening on the ground here in Calgary and to encourage you to come and interact with us. I believe we are on the #cusp of a huge cultural shift here in Calgary. Come CUSP with us!

Personal Stylist Sarah Schmidt

Perspectives YYC — Tue, 04 Jun 2019 10:00:00 -0600

I got to sit down with Sarah Schmidt, personal stylist, entrepreneur, writer (from our Issue 2 - check it out!) and all around nice person. We chat about her growth and emergence as a stylist and the spiritual link she draws between fashion, physical expression, and finding our true(r) selves. Hope you enjoy!
Thanks as always to Media Lab YYC and Thomas Thomas Band!

Inspirational Influencer - Jessica Jansen Olstad

Perspectives YYC — Wed, 22 May 2019 08:00:00 -0600

In today’s episode I sit down with Jessica Jansen, founder of Love for Lewiston Foundation - A charitable foundation dedicated to raising awareness of SMA - Spinal Muscular Atrophy. After suffering the tragic loss of her own second child to SMA when he was just 6 months old, we learn how she was able to take this tragedy and turn it into a force that of hope rather than misery. Her message of Hope, Motivation, and Inspiration through spiritual growth and courage makes an amazing and humbling conversation. Her message of CHANGE to the world - get off your asses and do something about it.
Thanks always to Thomas Thomas Band and Media Lab YYC. And to all the listeners and supporters out there working to make Calgary a better place each day!

Change Summit - Alkarim Devani, Richard De Los Reyes, Brett McDermott, Pete Emes

Perspectives YYC — Tue, 14 May 2019 06:00:00 -0600

A short summit with Alkarim Devani, Richard De Los Reyes, Brett McDermott, and Pete Emes. 4 successful Calgarian Entrepreneurs and I reflect on the city, succeeding working with our dreams, and where Calgary might be heading next. A great conversation which inspired me to reflect on my own work with Perspectives YYC and the push for change, growth, and creativity! We talk about origin stories, politics, business thinking, and even the merits of a $15 smoothie!
Thanks again to Kyle Marshall of Media Lab YYC, Thomas Thomas Band (new EP on Spotify, What!?!?!) and special thanks to ATB Entrepreneurial Centre for allowing us use of their conference room for this recording!

Filmmaker Anna Cooley

Perspectives YYC — Thu, 02 May 2019 06:00:00 -0600

This past March I had the pleasure of sitting down with Filmmaker and Production Company Owner Anna Cooley. A born Calgarian creator, Anna shared with me her experience growing into an artist, establishing herself in the industry, and her experiences experimenting with new feature concepts.
Thanks always to Thomas Thomas who just released their debut EP on Spotify. And of course my Partner-In-Digital-Crime (podcast production, not actual felonies) Kyle Marshall and Media Lab YYC for the continued partnership and support.

Trans Poet Ashley Miles

Perspectives YYC — Thu, 28 Mar 2019 08:00:00 -0600

In January I had the honour of sitting down with Ashley Miles. At the time of record she considered herself Non-Binary and Gender Fluid. We met through a referral by our mutual friend, poet, mother, and all around awesome person Amanda Hiebert. Ashley created a poem for our Issue 3 and we discuss this work, poetry at large, her experience of the gender issue, politics, heck... we discuss it all. I want to thank her for working with us to keep building this Perspectives movement in the city.
In the spirit of non-binary, Thomas Thomas's amazing track Gracious Host appears in its entirety at the end. And thank you, always, to my incredible producer Kyle Marshall and Media Lab YYC.

Future Womb Founder Mikaela Cochrane

Perspectives YYC — Fri, 15 Mar 2019 00:00:00 -0600

I had the pleasure of sitting down with front woman, lead singer, and founder of Future Womb - a Psychedelic Darkwave Popera baby of the Canadian prairies - their words, not mine! Mikaela is vibrant, creative, and open to discussing her roots, experiences, and music with us. They have a single dropping today, March 15! And their album release will be April 19! Calgarian born and raised, we discuss everything from her start on a karaoke machine, experiences as a cis-female in the male-band-music scene, to musical theatre and, believe it or not, even her band's creation and creative process! It's a jam packed hour, hope you like it!
Thanks, as always, to Media Lab YYC for the recording, studio, mentorship, and general awesomeness. And to fellow Calgary Band Thomas Thomas for their track Gracious Host!

Calgary Artist Dean Stanton

Perspectives YYC — Tue, 05 Mar 2019 23:00:00 -0700

I had the great pleasure of sitting down with renown Calgary artist Dean Stanton! We chat about... well... pretty much everything! Art, politics (?), Calgary, creativity, you name it... we probably cover it somehow. At least... felt that way. Haha. You can see Dean's art all over the city but it's on our podcast that we get down to his story! Amazing how he's been able to be a self-employed artist in Calgary since the 90s! Great insight and mentorship.
Thank as always to Thomas Thomas for their amazing track Gracious Host. And congrats on the recent announcement of their debut EP. We'll do our best to have some exclusive links here!
And of course to Media Lab YYC - without whom none of this would be possible!

Filmmaker Ingrid Vargas

Perspectives YYC — Sun, 24 Feb 2019 01:00:00 -0700

I met Ingrid Vargas last year while building a photography show. She brought prints of floral film photographs. They were beautiful. But I soon learned her true form of artistry was the creation of movies! Amazing! She has given me the honour of chatting on record about art, Calgary, being a woman, among other things! Thank you to Ingrid, and of course to MediaLabYYC for the production. Thank you to Thomas Thomas for the killer intro/outro track. With all the big changes in my life to date, I'm super grateful to know so many amazing creatives in this city!

Green Party Rep Thana Boonlert

Perspectives YYC — Fri, 08 Feb 2019 15:00:00 -0700

A few years ago I met Thana Boonlert street-shooting on Stephen Ave. We chatted about our craft and over the course of an insta-friendship and then some coffee dates, I learned he was an engineer in training and, go figure, an agent of social change. As a member of the Green Party of Alberta and now officially representing Calgary for the soon to be announced political campaign, Thana Boonlert is running on his belief in science and rationality. While we here at Perspectives YYC must steer clear of any specific political lean, one question arose in the recording of this session at Thana's launch party: Can Reason Win Over Rhetoric in Modern Politics? The only contribution we can make is to offer an avenue for said discussion to take place.
Thanks to Thana and the Green Party of Alberta for allowing us access to this great event. And as always to MediaLabYYC for production and Thomas Thomas Band for this hot intro/outro track!

Geo-Physicist Eric Wicherts

Perspectives YYC — Wed, 30 Jan 2019 16:00:00 -0700

I met an incredible man, Eric Wicherts, at Phil&Sebastian Coffee Shop. 90+ year old Dutch-Canadian, husband to painter And Wicherts, war vetran, geo-physicist, owner of a luxury passenger train. And super nice. He gave me a run down of meeting his wife to having 3 kids each on a different CONTINENT. And of course we talk about how amazing Calgary is! (Especially compared to Toronto, hehehe) And when he's done, he walks out of the studio - mid session. Proper thug. Thank you Eric. Thank you to MediaLabYYC for audio production and hosting. Thank you Thomas Thomas Band for amazing tunes. And thanks to coffee shops in general, that a foolish man like me could befriend an incredible achiever like Eric!

Documentary Photographer George Webber

Perspectives YYC — Wed, 23 Jan 2019 01:00:00 -0700

We had the distinct honour of sitting down with George Webber, esteemed, famous, and incredibly fun. A casual conversation that stretches across history, process, philosophy, and general awesomeness.
Incredible new track by band Thomas Thomas. And as always, great thanks to Kyle Marshall at Media Lab YYC for production.
Our hope is to further hone our content to show just how amazing Calgary is. Incredible creatives that, regardless of notoriety, want to keep encouraging the art scene to grow and evolve!

Bonus - Issue 2 Launch Nov 3 2018

Perspectives YYC — Sun, 20 Jan 2019 15:00:00 -0700

Here is a pre-post season quickie. Kyle from MediaLabYYC did me the great honour of attending our Issue 2 Launch and we recorded this podcast. As a fare-thee-well to my music collaborators I've included full track cuts of the songs from Handmade and Mellori.
This event occurred at the incredible seafood restaurant Rodney's Oyster House.
It features quick chats with Issue 2 collaborators: Arlene Hufalar, Graham Boyd, and Geordan Spicer.

Media Producer Kyle Marshall

Perspectives YYC Presents — Sun, 16 Dec 2018 09:32:00 -0700

As with everything I approach, I found myself in an impromptu interview with my producer Kyle Marshall. A fascinating human being who has experienced several swings in life and has come out looking to give back. Founder of the community-focused digital lab MediaLabYYC, Kyle is beginning to establish himself as a source of digital awesomeness and has been a great supporter of like-minded movements, such as ours here at Perspectives YYC. He’s knowledgeable on computers, phones, audio, video, music, cinema… shit… if there’s “media” attached to it, Kyle’s your man. Thanks Kyle for being an incredible producer and friend!

Painter + Street Artist Austin Kamenz

Perspectives YYC Presents — Sun, 09 Dec 2018 09:19:00 -0700

We sat down with Austin Kamenz, local street artist and awesome dude at Vintage Caffeine Co. Austin has a solo show up there and wanted to get his inspirational perspective out to the world. From tagging rail cars near Vancouver to studying fine art with his girlfriend here in Calgary, Austin’s working hard to grow the art scene here in the YYC. As the Perspectives Team grows, we work to get you connected more with the human beings that create too!

Konmari Consultant Helen Youn

Perspectives YYC Presents — Tue, 04 Dec 2018 20:03:00 -0700

Helen Youn is my wife, the mother of our son Emerson, and my best friend. She’s also the only Certified Konmari Consultant in the Prairies! And while we probably spend more time talking about me (so selfish!) truthfully, I wanted to have this recording of where we are as we surpass 18 years together already. She’s talented, straight forward, artistic, entrepreneurial, beautiful, and the love of my life! #gushing

p.s. shout out to Esther for the question in the ‘cast!

Mountaineer Jacquôt Marshall

Perspectives YYC Presents — Mon, 19 Nov 2018 22:34:00 -0700

Jacquôt is a friend I have made who loves coffee, mountains, and people. Mostly people. I invited him to the podcast as he started a new journey in a new career in hopes of harnessing his incredible energy for our venture here at Perspectives YYC.

Thanks, as always, to Kyle Marshall and MediaLabYYC and to Handmade.

Artist Alex Kwong

Perspectives YYC Presents — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 11:04:00 -0700

Alex and I met online to build a large public art project and while that didn’t take, we chat about our vibe, his talent, and his outlook on Calgary’s art scene - largely philosophically.

Thanks to MediaLabYYC and Handmade for production and musical accompaniment - and please take a moment to give us a rating, a review, and a follow!

Painter Jill Paddock

Perspectives YYC Presents — Wed, 31 Oct 2018 21:30:00 -0600

I sat down with Jill Paddock, awesome local artist, mom, and general human being. We talk art, Calgary, painting on basement floors, mental health and, of course, a bit about West Elm and the appropriation of art! Take a listen, let us know what you think! And thank you as always for your support.

Environmentalist Olivia Johnson

Perspectives YYC Presents — Sun, 21 Oct 2018 14:41:00 -0600

I sat down with Olivia Johnson, artist, geo-activist, event coordinator, awesome young lady. We got to speaking about her trips to build Earth Ships, mental health, and the experience of growing up in Calgary, looking for an outlet for her creativity.

New intro/outro song by Handmade.

Calgarian Band Handmade

Perspectives YYC Presents — Mon, 08 Oct 2018 10:54:00 -0600

Sat down with @handmade.music - a project by Connor Mead dedicated to a close personal friend's tragic loss. Connor and his girlfriend/bandmate Alicia stopped by to chat with me about the Calgary music scene and to perform two tracks from their upcoming EP!

Nvrlnd Founder Kelly Johnsgaard

Perspectives YYC Presents — Fri, 28 Sep 2018 15:57:00 -0600

Sat down with Kelly Johnsgaard, founder of the collective known as Nvrlnd Ranch.

Painter Modern Emulsions

Perspectives YYC Presents — Sat, 15 Sep 2018 12:41:00 -0600

I met Magda who runs Modern Emulsions and had a chat about her start, growth, and incredible spiritual persona! Here's our conversation and the beginning of a collaborative relationship!

Spoken Word Poet Zaire Sealy

Perspectives YYC Podcast — Wed, 05 Sep 2018 13:44:00 -0600

Sit down chat with poet, performer, all around dope human being Zaire Sealy. Musical intro/outro by the new artist Mellori

Street Photographer Alvin Paringit

Perspectives YYC Presents — Fri, 24 Aug 2018 21:17:00 -0600

An interview with my friend and photographic collaborator Alvin Paringit and music from new Calgary artist Mellori. Thank you to MediaLabYYC for recording, tutoring, editing, and just awesome-ing the start of our broadcast!