Eat This! Drink That!

Podcaster, journalist and outdoor enthusiast Meg Carney joins me to talk about the importance of fresh air experiences. A contributor to Field and Stream magazine Meg love to hike, climb, paddle and speaks often about gear. We discuss longevity, durability, and dependability of kit as well as the impact of choices when we should be leaving no trace.

Mark Sherry has pivoted and his latest development is an app that compares prices across grocery stores. Do you have time to look at flyers and take your list to two or three stores to save a buck? What if an algorithm can do it for you in mere moments. Would it change your shopping behaviour? Maybe.Have a listen and find out about GOFER and how it may cut your costs and suggest which provisioner is your best deal.

Rachelle Rocha, ever the innovator, is always looking for ways to improve your Quality of Life. She and her co-owner see "food as medicine" and everything they do supports that belief. Not only is Seasons a pharmacy, but it is also a food store and more. Because of the amount of floor space devoted to the Culinaria, and kitchen, Seasons qualified to sell beer, wine, cider, and perry. It is the first to do this in the category of services they offer. It makes them a true destination for shoppers who understand the philosophy of their store and intentions.

Come along for a conversation with Jason Goossen. Jason and his family currently operate 3 unique stays on their Okanagan property that will delight you. No sound of traffic, a brook, a farm, an orchard, sage fragranced air, and sweeping views will bring down your tension.It truly is a delight that delivers glamping plus!

What a great organization! Deb Pella Keen speaks about the founder and his motivation to promote real Canadian maple trees.Our laneways, farm driveways, and even cities have to actively plant native species. Invasives and aggressives - like the European or Norway Maple - are not the leaf of our flag.Listen along and discover how you can support and even participate in protecting our heritage.

This is not my usual direction. Sure, I've covered some hard topics, but speaking about killers is way off my map. I hesitated for some years to read Michael Arntfield's "Murder City" but there it was on my shelf... it was only a matter of time before I read it from cover to cover. The next step - naturally - was inviting Michael to this program, When you listen along you will see the linkage to questions about quality of life. I post this caution: listen only if you are ready for some content that may disturb you: London, Ontario never was safe. What other horrors exist in this great country? Recent events again highlight that there are some we have to fear. Perhaps by asking difficult questions we as a nation can avoid a future that includes serial killers, missing children and women, and tragedies of mass shootings. Where is the justice for those who have had their future stolen?

A blast from the past: This episode originally was broadcast some years ago. I felt it was time to revisit the interview with rancher Dylan Biggs.Dylan kindly shares knowledge of the landscape and the reasons why where he is is ideal for raising cattle.From the saddle he knows and understands the animals and environment. One day I hope to visit and learn even more about TK Ranch.

So many older adults have either no portraits nor recent photos. These are not just for their lives but perhaps for their obituary. Why should they not have a professional image for sharing now and then.This is a rerelease of an interview with Peter Istvan who started capturing images of his parents and the neighbours who lived in the same residence. He now has taken it to the next level.Peter has gone from working in health care in Parry Sound, but began considering what he would do in his "golden" years. Fully kitted out with great lighting and quality techniques/technology Peter's images are more than just keepsakes. Come along and listen to his motivation in what he does with his camera, how he builds rapport, and the results he achieves.

This is a rerelease of a conversation with Bill Steer.With his books, articles, podcasts, and presence on CBC Back Roads Bill Steer is the embodiment of outdoor awareness. His work includes the collaborative creation of the Canadian Ecology Centre near Mattawa. It is his decades of getting kids (and adults) outside and in touch with the landscape and history of Northern Ontario that is an amazing legacy. To think that Champlain and so many other explorers portaged and canoed the waterways of the region is so experiential and immersive. Come along for a conversation I wanted to have with Bill for years... I am so glad it finally happened.

This is a rerelease of a program I recorded with Sam Hauck in early 2025. What a great person to talk to about the BC wine world. Sam has been all across this province, and knows the people and the properties in detail. He is a contributor to MyVanCity on bottles and uses social media to share his experiences. From Lillooet to Osoyoos and Cawston to Cowichan Sam has a passion that goes back to the 1980s and even brought about a relocation to the heart of the Okanagan to be closer to the vineyards and folk who bring joy to our tables, enhance our enjoyment of life, and lift our pleasure in sharing food.

This is a rerelease of a program recorded in 2025. It is worth sharing not just as the original broadcast. Camp Maple Leaf sites are across Canada. Many thanks to National Program Director, April Young for her time. She shares the value the summer programs bring to not just military families and their children, but to others who can benefit from confidence and skills.Besides, who doesn't want to go to camp, to learn to swim, to fish, to sit around a fire at day's end, and to watch the night sky.Children in military families are often uprooted from their communities and connections; their schooling interrupted and safety net disappears. "... Frequent relocations inherent in military life can challenge their ability to develop lasting friendships."Yes, they have been around since 1955 but I bet you may never have heard of Camp Maple Leaf. This is an opportunity to learn about what they nurture and grow.Here is their mission statement:"We give children of Canadian Military families and children who share similar unique life challenges a camp to call their own. Camp Maple Leaf supports and celebrates campers for who they are, and fosters friendships that follow them home."Visit www.campmapleleaf.ca for more details and to request a spot for your family, your children, or even grandchildren.Camp Maple Leaf is operated by The Camp Tanamakoon Charitable Foundation, Inc and as a registered Canadian charity you can support their efforts with a one-time donation or consider annual giving through their site or via Canada Helps. You could even volunteer!

Come along to Government Street and make Emily Carr's home in Victoria a destination. She was born there. She lived there until her late teens and again in her 20s. She taught art classes at her dining room table. Her paintings capture the spirit of the west coast, its forests, its shorelines, and even the dynamics of trees moving in the wind. Emily Carr paintings today can fetch over $3 million and are sought by museums and collectors worldwide. Do read her books, and consider touring and taking an art class at this wonderful place in Canadian history.

Many thanks to Doug Bell for sharing his passion for fruit wines. Our conversation on where the winery is, its history, the products available, and even plans for the future... is all here. You will find that there are great stories in the journey and what they offer. You will learn how the project got its name, and know that over a million visitors have been welcomed. Maybe Prince George BC is your next destination?

This is a rerelease of a recording made some time ago and was only shared on radio. Here it is now ready to listen anytime you are ready. North Bay's John Sallie has some thoughts to share on life and what matters. Is it what you need, want desire? No, he says we don't need to clutch things . This episode explores what motivates us as we pass through the decades.His sixth decade is affording him the liberty to do more of what pleases him; that means more time devoted to writing. "It all goes by so fast so live for today."

Vancouver Island is the home to many vineyards. The climate favours varieties like Pinot Gris but there is much experimentation. Tricia and Steve arrived after detailed investigation of potential in the Okanagan, Italy and their home state of California. They have transformed a lavender farm into what is now Cobble Hill Winery. An east and south facing slope in the front is like a big advertisement with new rows of Chenin Blanc. Not far from Cowichan Bay it is a pretty corner of the world. Come along for the listen and find out how delighted they are to be here, growing grapes, and making wine.

Thanks to my guest Melissa Valliant, Communications Director at Beyond Plastics, for coming to talk about plastics and plastic pollution. We learn plastics are everywhere, including in us. If you want to know more about "The Problem with Plastic" by Judith Enck you might find a copy in your local library... This is not a story of despair. The subtitle is "How we can save ourselves and our planet before it's too late," so there is a sense of hopefulness as well as ways we can wean ourselves from dependency and addiction to this growing problem.

Western Engineering student Ribal Zebian has some ideas about what we build, where we build, and how we build, homes.Rising cost of materials and labour are just part of the equation. Zebian proposes modular units, built in climate controlled factories as a solution. He is willing to live for a year in one of his prototypes.Come along for a conversation about his journey and what he proposes for Canadians.

What can you write about when your heart is touched? Something like The Victoria Hand Project has such value... it says so much about both the generosity of, and the importance of, addressing a pressing need. Loss of a hand can happen in so many different ways: infection, industrial injury... and the cruelty of landmines.Come along to University of Victoria and find out how they are responding to this challenge.

I interviewed Holland Marshall the first time for a print story. His interest in specifically homelessness, addiction and the way society responds to these challenges brings us back together. This time our conversation covers some new ground based on his recent observations specifically in Sudbury. But don't mistake this for a uniquely Sudbury story. Those living "rough" have a perennial Canadian problem once the temperature drops: cold and frostbite. Warming using open flame in highly flammable tents or cardboard shelters is no solution. It can, and has, resulted in fires and death. Growing numbers of individuals living outside over the last decade - and especially during COVID - has exacerbated the outcomes no one would wish on anyone.

Want to know more about the Villa Eyrie? Of course you do. Located near the summit of the Malahat Pass this romantic resort is a perfect escape. Really only half an hour outside of Victoria the drive alone is worth it. The dining room has a view like no other. The rooms so comfortable... and well kitted out for cocooning and relaxation. Samantha Johnson is the Assistant General Manager and she has her fingers on the pulse of the property. Her she speaks about what makes Villa Eyrie a destination whether for breakfast/brunch, lunch/dinner or an overnight stay.

Angela Mustone has a line of wellness products. She was in from Montreal showcasing her catalogue. The ideal spot to do this is the Villa Eyrie. Located at the top of the Malahat Drive the romantic getaway now carries her intimacy oils, candles, body paint. You can visit their spa to make purchases that will enhance your (single or plural) quality of life. Angela speaks on her journey, development, and aspirations.

An exceptional look and feel is the goal of Design de Plume (DDP) and Principal Jennifer Taback RGD. Her team offers a unique perspective that makes their work attractive to clients world-wide; "We integrate Indigenous knowledge with leading-edge design solutions."This Sudbury Ontario based company knows no geographic boundaries. Listen to our conversation on the roots of the organization, their journey, and recent successes.

You must consider making a pilgrimage to dine at Vij's. Vikram Vij laughs when called an overnight success; there have been years of hard work and sacrifice to achieve this pinnacle of a dining destination. Books, TV, and the restaurant(s) each display his passion for showcasing the best of his heritage and the ingredients that the ocean and land of British Columbia and Canada offer up. Vikram acknowledges it is not all him; it is teamwork. And what a well-oiled operation it is. Seamless service ensures you will be so pleased you can't wait for your next visit.Explosions of flavour plus such amazing tastes and textures have put Vij's on the map.

Where there are fish I can guarantee you will find Bob Izumi. This is a joyous conversation that celebrates Bob's 38 years of television production. with 26 shows a year (do the math) he covered lots of miles and met thousands of people. It's more than fishing it is about being outdoors on a lake hearing the loons, seeing the sunrise, breathing deeply and appreciating being Canadian. Starting in his teens Bob never has run out of lakes to fish nor a passion to do so... and to share his adventures. Fishing is very democratic; from a simple line and hook to expensive gear, to specialized boats and technology.Come along for the story of how Bob made the programs, and his thoughts for today and the future.

Car-free zone? Inner city cores that have life and encourage living. Fume-free coffee or lunch at a sidewalk cafe? A conversation that is not overwhelmed by exhaust... where you sit under a tree canopy and the birds are a background symphony. Is it a pipe-dream? Stephen Burgen, journalist at the Guardian has lived in Spain for a quarter century and shares his observations of change and improvement. Are there examples we can learn from and what can we embrace? Urban parks, strolling, improved life expectancy, intergenerational interactions... we touch on all these topics here in this episode.

NOTE: This is a broadcast that was initially shared in 2024. I felt it was worthy of another listen.Dr. Trevor Hancock is a retired Public Health physician. His work included time in New Brunswick as a family doctor, in Toronto at Public Health, and lastly at University of Victoria. He contributes weekly - for the last decade - to the Victoria Times-Colonist and writes about determinants of health. We have a conversation about smoking and how rates have changed and how we hope to see it drop further.

Dr. Kendra Coulter is the author of  Defending Animals. I read an article in the Globe and Mail and just had to have a conversation with her here on QOL . Coulter is a Professor of Management and Organizational Studies, at Huron University College at Western. She is a Fellow of the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics, and Member, Royal Society of Canada's College of New Scholars, Artists, and Scientists.This program is being re-released to stimulate additional awareness of abuse and neglect of all animals.Though specific reference to Marineland is not made, there are responsibilities we have towards all captive animals.

There were the legacy breweries - the big boys of the business - then came the micros, and here we are talking with Dan van Netten about his nano-brewery on Vancouver Island.He really isn't new to the industry nor to brewing; I am told he began his journey in high school with first batches of beer and wine.Howl is located on Lyle Street in Esquimalt in a historic building that once was a green grocer/convenience store from 1909. It was known as a neighbourhood candy store for years.Come along for a conversation that explores how Dan got into beer, what he produces now, and his aspirations for a tasting room.

I think it was a decade ago when I first interviewed Linda Miller on this program. Linda has a successful matchmaking service that may be just what you are looking for. Misty River Introductions has a 30 plus year history of success in making connections happen. I thought since we are in a post-pandemic period it would be good to talk once again with Linda to see how things were during COVID and now in 2026.

NB - This is a previously broadcast episodeThough reference to dates, times and locations may reflect a time already past the content is still germaneThis rerelease is also a tribute to the many years NORCAT was under the energetic leadership of CEO Don DuvalWhat do you know about NORCAT and its signature annual event PITCH? Come along for a conversation with Brendan Skiffington and hear how this project advances ideas, supports innovation, and drives entrepreneurial activity. What do you know about NORCAT?This episode's focus really is on one specific activity thatNORCATPITCHThis is also a celebration of the years under the directionof CEO Don Duval. Previously broadcast

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.