Eat This! Drink That!

Founders Jamie Gerus and Jeff Wright are the team that makes FIZZ non-alc Bottle Shop a touchstone for product and knowledge. In a time where more consumers are looking for beverage alternatives this store on Lower Johnson fits so well into the vibe that is LoJo. Independent boutiques, cafes, and unique stores sit adjacent to this bijoux. Come along for a conversation about their philosophy, their selection, and their aspirations.

John Gunn recalls how Jane Goodall would sign her messages to him with "Love" for as the UN Messenger of Peace she clearly was also loved in return. Gunn and his colleagues are aiming for the installation of four sculptures across Sudbury celebrating the concrete interest Jane showed in what some call "the Regreening City of Hope". Come along and learn what they are exploring in creating novel monuments that get young people to be inquisitive."Why did she choose us?" Gunn asks. Gunn insists we must never forget the visits she made to the region - the largest land reclamation project in the world. "When Jane Goodall died the world stopped for a moment."

Come along to Cyprus and meet Mustafa Afsaroglu. He and his team are using waste olive pits (plus a bio-based adhesive) to create Pit-Board. Their sustainable composite panel material has so many applications as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional surfaces. This greener option can be used homes in cabinetry and countertops, modular furniture in office settings, and has no VOCs nor formaldehyde. Curing is at ambient temperatures so there is another plus. Feedstock comes from both sides of the island (Turkish and Greece) and is a new way to unite a country that has the last divided capital in Europe.

What do we really know about policing? The movies are so sensational and many of the multitude of book covers are bold, and brassy. If you want an authentic insiders' view try "Tightrope" by Jenn Hyland. Jennifer originally served with a west coast municipal police service, went on to the RCMP, and ultimately was Deputy Chief Constable in Surrey, BC. A very personal story, there is the career arc, but also how the work impacted herself and her vision of family; it is more than that. It has elements of a history shared by all who serve. Long hours, late nights are an accepted part of the process, but those - and the following of cases to their end - made for stress, MS, PTSD, and her ultimate decision to conclude her service. She hopes by sharing that it will help others who protect the vulnerable.Come along for the conversation, learn more, and walk the tightrope with her.

Recorded in December - the season where we consume too much of everything - this episode is about addictions. Michael Leahey, founder and CEO of Better Now, speaks about his own journey with alcohol and how that ultimately resulted in his collaboration in forming an organization that helps others regain their health, their relationships, and even keep their job. Breaking the conveyor belt of dependency from any substance is not easy, but Michael has some hard won solutions - and people to support you - to help. Also to be broadcast on CKLU just before Dry February this conversation might be of value to you or someone you know.

I am re-releasing this episode in 2026 as it fits with a theme I have been exploring. Enjoy!The holidays are upon us. Soon after comes the cusp of dry-February so what do you serve? Low-alc, non-alc, alc alternatives... this category is surging. Inclusive hospitality now demands you as a host, and certainly restaurants and events, must have an array of what we once called "near-beer" and de-alcoholized wines on hand. Some guests will have both sorts and are doing "damp drinking" and that greatest group in Gen Z. Join Mark Kuspira in the conversation about the changes in the beverage world and what his company, Soft Crush, is doing in response.

I started reading posts by Debbie Rosaline on LinkedIn. Was it pre-COVID? She definitely had insights and aligned with thoughts I too had about the wine and hospitality industry. She also wrote about luxury brands and high-touch service, so I thought she would be an ideal guest here on QOL. We set a date to talk. I think we will have more conversations. Join us here on this episode and follow her journey of discovery of Canadian wines, wines of the world, and the changes and challenges facing the industry globaly.

Maybe you have seen a documentary on freediving? You may have marveled at the seeming effortlessness and tranquility of just entering the water and going down, perhaps to depths where it almost seems unbelievable.Chris Hanhimaki insists, however, that “freediving is the purest way that a human can interact with the underwater world.“There's no reliance on tanks or anything external,” Hanhimaki said. “It's just holding your breath and diving into the depths. I consider it a very meditative and somewhat spiritual practice.“Some people freedive to observe wildlife, {others] to compete in depth and pool competitions … the root of it all is simply just diving with nothing but your breath and body.”How did Hanhimaki get involved? How did a Northern Ontario boy get engaged in this? “About four years ago now, my wife and I moved to Costa Rica. There, I fell in love with the ocean. It was like my soul returned home. I just wanted to be on, in, and under the water every day.This text is part of an article written in the summer of 2025 when Chris came to Sudbury and explored the depths of Ramsey Lake as well as offering a one day introduction to this amazing experience.Go to https://www.thesudburystar.com/news/freediving-its-just-holding-your-breath-and-diving-into-the-depths and read the full story. Listen along here and be captivated by his description of what freediving is.

As we start a new year join a conversation on what Monika Ghent and her colleagues offer at the Living Earth School of Herbalism. Their online courses are a great place to start your journey. You may want to improve your health in 2026 by seeing what can be stand alone or as complimentary to traditional Western medicine. In addition the school has field studies, workshops and more through its location in Maple, Ontario.

I think Rainbow Kitchen does so much more than "Feed the Belly and Feed the Soul" for their Monday to Friday breakfast and lunch is vital to so many. Their school programs and varied menu allows people of all ages in Esquimalt - and beyond - to continue and to thrive. No questions asked, you can come for something nutritious, warm, and flavourful and if you wish you can bring some home for dinner, tomorrow, a friend, or roommate. I speak with Executive Director Patrick Jawes soon after his 6th anniversary with the organization. The topic? Well, I don't recall this program happening on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day, but here in the spirit of fellowship during the darkest days of the calendar I offer this conversation.

Come along to 760 Broughton Street in Victoria and meet Jonathan Morissette. He and his wife have recently opened a shop offering a broad selection of non-alcohol beverages. Softer Drink has spirit-free bottles from across the globe, non-alcohol wines, and cocktails, as well as unique teas. Jonathan shares their entrepreneurial journey, an overview of their inventory, and an invitation to visit this beautiful retail space that includes an eye-fetching tasting bar.

Come along for a half hour conversation about diabetes. Glenn Thibault not only is a key figure at Diabetes Canada - he will share his exact title - but also lives with the disease. We talk about how people dealt with the challenges in the past and how technology is improving quality of life for all today. What will tomorrow bring in management and control?

I met Bree Sharratt at the Thursday Esquimalt Market. It was Halloween and she was dressed as a giraffe. Now that's a conversation opener. It was her teas that prompted a visit to Langford and a tour of her shop. In this episode you will hear her passion for teas and infusions. Check out what she offers by googling Island Elixirs and of course listen along.I apologize for the slight background hum. Despite filtering the compressor blowing out the underground sprinkler system (as well as pounding rain on the seatainer's metal roof) across the street there is residual drone.

In this episode of QOL I share the delight in finding this bijoux space. Aerth saunas is a very special third place. Sitting by the fire pit Viki tells us of her journey imagining this, designing it, constructing it, and what it means to those who come to experience it.

Expert hospitality consultant Daniel Cronin has decades of experience assembling the perfect beverage... for you! We talk about ingredients, history (pouring the classics), and the growing segment of the "spirit-free" drinks world.

Another one of the interviews I've been wanting to do for some years. I had to ask myself what the delay and hesitation was; and so I said "go for it" and requested an opportunity. Julian Daly was kind enough to say yes.Julian is the CEO of Our Place Society. Victoria is not immune to the challenges of addictions, homelessness, and the weight of mental health issues. They are challenges national in scope.I am glad I got to learn from Julian that the situation outside, on the street, in the 900 block of Pandora, is not what goes on inside. Learning that this location is just one of ten sites and that there are possibilities beyond temporary sheltering and food services, has been valuable to me.Recovery, and even employment, is also discussed here. Have a listen.

Murals! Yes, the Sherlock Holmes Walk - adjacent to the Toronto Reference Library - features interesting interpretations of the contents and time of author Conan Doyle. Apologies for the sound quality, but this was recorded outdoors on a breezy day between buildings with ventilation. Kindly accompanied by Cliff Goldfarb we learn about the panels of inspired images. In the last portion we go up to the 5th floor collection to sit surrounded by books on or about Doyle, the books he wrote, the time period, and anything related to Sherlock Holmes. Yes, there is a Deerstalker and even a pipe sitting on the mantlepiece.

Dr. Gifford-Jones (Dr. Ken Walker) passed away on Canada Day 2025. He had long crossed the century mark and continued writing through his following time. His last book was on retirement living, but readers likely recall his 5 decade contribution to explanations on health and wellness. How wonderful to have the chance to visit with his daughter Diana, and learn more about this amazing man and his work.

We've been wanting to sit down and talk for years. Finally, we did it. Welcome Bryan Cooper to the podcast! Here is our discussion on men's mental health, and specifically his journey.

Well, we visited Simply The Best in Victoria for all things men's wear, so this time we are off to celebrate the 50 years of Fashion Fair. While so many specialty women's stores have disappeared, Sheila Bracken has survived. What is the key to her success? It is commitment combined with her personality. It comes down to being Sheila. Joined by her business partner Jocelyn Tait they together dress women for all occasions.Check out the article I wrote earlier in 2025:Lively's Fashion Fair Ladies Wear says 'cheers to 50 years' | Sudbury Star

All my guests share one or more attributes; they are fascinating! Eric Boutilier is a subject matter expert on transportation (specifically rail service in Northern Ontario), and with that skill (and frustration) he has once again produced a game. "Tripped" takes you on a journey across North America, and just like the famous "Trouble" there are roadblocks and setbacks that impede your travel. Eric is a new mover to Thunder Bay and this comes up in our conversation also.

This is a short selection from an article I wrote in early summer 2025.Alex Tétreault started putting down written words for as long as he can remember. “It was a bit of an escape for me, and I just found it really fun.” He is Greater Sudbury's 8th Poet Laureate. Writing can be a liberating, but also sequestering process. For Tétreault this tension is very important. “It allows me to be as specific or as vague as I want and it gives me the time to reflect and choose the right words to get my ideas across the way that I want them to.” The play he crafted is in book form too. It is in French.“It was first produced by me and the Théâtre du Nouvel-Ontario (TNO) in June 2023. Because theatre is ephemeral and I wanted this story to keep being told. I submitted it to Prise de parole for publication and here we are. As a thoughtexercise I did translate it for a performance.”His play (and now book) Nickel City Fifs is setin Sudbury at Zigs Bar... Yes, the iconic Zigs is still open. “I wrote it and direct it, but oh God, no, I don't act in it,” he laughs long.What is the underlying pinch that made him write it? “For me I really wanted my Francophone and Queer identities to co-exist. I was always trying to get more French into Sudbury PRIDE.” Tétreault sees the work he does as very Sudbury-centric but applicable to the wider world.

Broadcaster, and wearer of many hats, John Lindsay has been part of Sudbury since the sixties. He has been a school board trustee, served on many committees, and has been an activist on many fronts... including bike infrastructure. He is fun to talk to and engaging as a conversationalist. I recall John's late night radio program as well as TV interviews with artists and musicians. Come along for a look back on John's life and career.

Visiting Taylor Bell at Wildness Ranch Glamping Retreat in Chelmsford, Ontario you begin to realize the alure of being in a tent under a forest canopy. The big open marshland to the south would be a birdwatcher's paradise. Perhaps watch meteor showers or the Northern Lights while sitting by your campfire. Off-grid this is not just a place to unwind and unplug, but to regain some peace.

On the hottest days of the year Lecoupe Ice is busy ensuring you and your beverages keep cool. I spoke with Daniel Mensour about this second and third generation Sudbury family business at their manufacturing centre in Val Caron. Block ice and cube ice for your cooler, Luxury Ice Balls and prisms for specialty drinks, what you find are consumables that improve your quality of life. Come along and listen to Daniel speak about what they have been doing for local and regional markets since 1945 - and learn about the newest products that will be sold world-wide.

Occupying 1/3 of you day, and your life, sleep is an essential part of living. What if your rest and revitalization is affected negatively by physiology, habits, condition within or even beyond your control? Take charge of this essential part of your quality of life by having a conversation with Tierney Gunthorpe. A specialist in Sleep Apnea Tierney and I have a wide ranging romp through everything from pillows to sleep environments.

I think Louis-Philippe Desjardins and I had contact more than a decade ago. He was involved in community based agriculture and CSA boxes was his thing. It still is. With a greenhouse and the addition of milling plus Silo 6 pastas he is one busy farmer-entrepreneur. Come along for the wide ranging conversation on food and food production.

I've heard about Haskap, but really had limited exposure to them. Reading that they are like a blueberry and a raspberry got together and had a baby gave me a deeper understanding of the flavour profile... sort of.The juice is lovely as a way to launch your day, the fruit leather explosive with deep purple notes, and jam that is like nothing the grocery stores sell. Yum!It was a delight to visit with Tara Hamilton at their family farm near St. Charles, Ontario. This program was recorded out in their extensive fields, as well as indoors at their store and production facility. There is the sound of refrigeration in the last 10 minutes. I have filtered out some of the background sounds.

Son and father, Sandro and Roberto Pegoraro are the effort, energy, and enthusiasm behind Pepperaro.Hot Maple Syrup, Hot Honey... there is a whole spectrum of pepper influenced products. They are getting ready for season 2025 with expanded planting, and more of everything.Come along and listen to their story, their aspirations and inspirations.

Karen Newington is an Ontario transplant. She's come from the hospitality program at Guelp and was immersed in the wine world of Niagara. Finding work at a wine bar in Duncan, B.C. she arrived at Unsworth. Yes, Vancouver Island grows grapes and makes exceptional wines.Come along for a tour of the property and a sampling of their white wines.

Now from her permanent studio overlooking the French River Laurie Cochrane puts her mind and spirit into stunning paintings. Come along and listen as she discribes the colours, formats, and content of art that just pleases the soul of those from northern Ontario. Wispy bent white pines may be stereotypic, but they are so comforting... you can almost hear the wind singing in their needles.

He has worked as a line cook, he has done work camps, he has years of experience in food preparation and presentation; meet Sylvain. His passion project is to address food insecurity in the French River area. Listen along and be captivated by his passion.

Hugh Kruzel interviews Kaitlin Fong about her online platform, Dine Find, which helps people with dietary restrictions find suitable restaurants. Kaitlin, who has gluten and dairy allergies, and her co-founder, who is vegetarian and egg-free, are creating an app to address the challenges of dining out with dietary restrictions. Dine Find launches on May 15 with a website, offering features like a directory, blog, and restaurant recommendations. They plan to expand to help all Canadian and will of course target cities like Toronto early. Kaitlin has won pitch competitions, securing additional funding for her venture. The platform aims to promote inclusive dining and support local businesses.

Hugh Kruzel and Daniel Clarke discussed the challenges of elder care, focusing on the differences between long-term care and retirement homes. Daniel highlighted the need for proactive planning, noting that 50,000 people in Ontario are waiting for long-term care beds. He emphasized the importance of tailoring care to individual needs, including cultural and linguistic preferences. Daniel's platform, Elderado, helps families find suitable elder care options by providing detailed information on 1,400 homes in Ontario. They also touched on the emotional and logistical challenges of moving elderly family members, particularly in terms of maintaining community connections and addressing spousal reunification issues.

Come along and meet Shiv. Hardworking this young entrepreneur is carving out a piece of his own following. From 8 am to midnight his family's food truck offers authentic flavours and great value. Following his father's recipes you just know you are in for a taste adventure. Soon as you drive along the Kingsway in Sudbury there will be two unique menus and with warming weather some outdoor seating... Indian Masala is a destination!

Chefs Rob Ruthart and Kris Roszel have teamed up to do a menu that is more than their exceptional soup and bread. Rob does lovely loaves crusted with corn meal, while Kris takes traditional soup recipes and explores how they can be expressed in novel and exciting ways. The choices also include some super tasty melts - like the extra garlicy Vampire Slayer - and an all-day breakfast. Watch chalkboard for daily specials and be delighted.

The ice storm is over, the snow is melting, and the sap is running. This weekend (April 5 and 6) you should visit SucrerieSéguin Sugarbush. There will be taffy, and of course maple syrup for sale. See the landscape and embrace this spring tradition. Bring your rubber boots!

Here's a conversation with Susan Levesque about the future downtown art gallery. Susan is fundraising for this project and speaks about the value of the gallery to residents and visitors, the location, and its 20,000 sq ft, 5 floor presence in Tom Davies Square.

Edmonton was a happening place in the wild west of the 70s and 80s. Masha Krupp showed up on the scene and became the coat check girl at The Point After. This interview takes place at the launch of her book on the stars of hockey and football who showed up at The Point for dinner, drinks and dancing.

Let's talk with Richard Barlow about the Habitat for Humanity's ReStore. Richard is the manager and definitely passionate about what this resale venue offers all kinds of people. As we talk and walk about the store it is apparent this is not someone's junk. There are treasures to be found, and as everything that comes in is a donation, prices are super accessible. Visit and be surprised by the selection.

Okay, you don't have to go halfway 'round the world to talk about wine... you can just cue up this episode. Kritian Kielmayer knows about wine! Not just Hungarian vineyards and bottles, but the broad european landscape. I had the good fortune to sit and listen to his words on wine at the Kimpton BEM in the fall of 2024. He has buckets of passion for this industry and the enjoyment of what starts out as grapes... and becomes so much more.

With a broad repertoire - at his fingertips - Nicolas Kilhoffer is one with the keyboards. I had the good fortune of hearing (and watching) him play at St. Peter and St. Paul's Anglican Church in Esquimalt. Studying piano at 7 he taught himself the organ at 10 and by 2017 was enrolled the Conservatoire in Strasbourg. This 22 year old can make the pipes sing. He has now returned to France after travel to Canada (studying at UVic), Hawaii, and teaching in Nairobi.

Black and white images of couples, colour photos of dancers, a fully kitted out studio... Michael Kaiser is ready for you on-site, or out in the landscape of your choice. His wedding photos are remarkable and timeless. There is an inventiveness and playful nature to what he produces. Join me for a conversation with this professional on what photography and photographic memories can do for your quality and enjoyment of life.

I wanted to know more about the use of AI in some current research and applications. Over coffee at Salute - here in Sudbury - Augustin Marks de Chabris outlined his Master's thesis work on potential efficencies using AI in the underground/mining environment. Naturally we talked about robotics, cybersecurity, and the future. I found Augustin optimistic and at the same time very aware of the hestitancy by many in the adoption of new technologies. In all a very topical and fascinating conversation.

Family photos, documents, memories... the Koivu family has preserved their history. In late 2024 I went to visit with them and look through albums and be listen to stories. George was 99 then, and this was the first year he had missed being present at a Remembrance Day ceremony. Two weeks later daughter Kathy texted me to share that their Dad was gone. Mentionned in one article, featured in another I now covered his memorial service at the local (Chelmsford) Legion. This episode is a tribute to a life lived well.

Ryan and I have been wanting to do an episode of QOL together for years. And finally... we did it! Ryan's motto is "If you have a dream, don't let anything stop you," and you can add "Dream big, work harder," to that philospohy. His store on Lasalle is just filled with great messages. Come along and listen to how Ryan's positivity is infectuous.

Want to know more about plans for the new central library? CEO and Chief Librarian Brian Harding walks me through the decision-making and process of relocating the central library. We talk broadly and specifically about everything from cost, to how this is an opportunity to express new and best practices in service delivery. Accessibility, use of natural light, investment in literacy are but three of the areas we touch on.

I visited with Melissa and Lisa to see what they have created on Regent Street in Sudbury. Adjacent to The Nickel Refillery this cute space offers guests and place to hang out. Not only is there great coffee (and teas) but handmade vegan and vegetarian soups and sandwiches. Here we have a conversation about their entreprenneurial journey and what's on the menu.

What was once a tonic to soothe the emperor came a drink that can be called a digestif. The Italians call this alcoholic beverage amaro, and Germans magenlikor. The history of the Zwack family and the unfolding of the political and economic landscape of Hungary are parallel stories. Take the tour and understand the ingredients and aromatics that make up this unique product line. Many thanks to Szabados Olivér for the conversation at Uniucm Ház in Budapest.

In this episode of QOL we visit with Sue Scherzingerat Gourmet World. From cold cuts to cheese, and chocolates to cookies, this is the place to go for all kinds of European goodies. Yes, I think you can do all your holiday shopping right here! There are always sandwiches (served with a snappy Knax pickle) and soup for a satisfying lunch. Let's explore the aisles and show cases with Sue and see the house-made cakes and desserts. Check out their website to see it all: www.gourmetworld.ca

I've had the pleasure of knowing Don since high school. We weren't always connected but our worlds collided from time to time. Because flights cross-Canada sometimes have layovers or long delays there were opportunities to renew that friendship. I was in Calgary on the cusp of a weather event when we spoke about Don's years in the Canadian Forces. We also returned to the story he shared of taking his Dad to Vimy Ridge and the beaches of Normandy. I knew someday I'd make a record to supplement the photos Don took on this adventure supporting his Dad's dream.