Harmonious Gentlemen

In this episode, the Harmonious Gentlemen explore the complex figure of Donald Trump—not just as a politician, but as a symbol. They discuss how his persona evokes strong reactions, why people still support him, and the psychology behind "Trumpism." With empathy at the heart of the conversation, the Gentlemen consider how to approach such a divisive topic, and reflect on the emotional and psychological forces driving today's political landscape.

In this episode, we delve into some of Alberta's hidden stories, focusing on the forgotten tragedies that shaped our province's infrastructure and industrial growth. We'll recount the harrowing tale of Charles Elick, a survivor of the devastating Frank Slide, and explore how he and others endured the aftermath of one of Canada's deadliest natural disasters. But Elick's survival is only the beginning. We'll discuss the broader dangers of coal mining in Alberta, the toll it took on communities, and the lasting legacy of industrialization. Join us as we reflect on the human cost of building our modern world, the risks that workers faced, and the scars that remain on the land and in memory.

Reflecting on the season that was. Looking ahead to the season that will be. Refocusing on the pursuit of harmony.

In this one, the Gentlemen talk about world travel while soaking in Graham's hot tub.

In this one, the Gents get curious about curiosity. Don't worry, no cats were harmed. Thanks to Cilantro and Chive for hosting us, and serving us delicious Blindman Brews alongside their own tasty treats.

In this episode, the gents discuss the idea of "change" over breakfast and coffee.  Since the beginning of the podcast, all three gentlemen have moved on from working together in the same school.  We all experience change, but some of us seek it out while others avoid it.  Some of us get excited about it, and others feel trepidation.  How do you respond to major life changes?  How does an upcoming change make you feel?  Do you choose change or let it happen to you?  Is change in opposition to simplicity?  Is change harmonious?

In this episode, the gents talk about rabbits, elk, and other organisms making a life in our cities. They are joined by Darcy Visscher, a professor of biology at The King's University in Edmonton, who brings his expertise to the table. How is urban ecology changing? What should we be concerned about? How does this relate with human problems such as homelessness? Why are there so many dang rabbits running around these days? Wanna find out? Give this episode a listen!

Graham's dream comes true and the Gents take a trip to Edmonton to experience Love Pro Wresting. Thanks to Spencer for having us and Effy for talking to us after the show.

Despite the controversy of recent golf comments, Chris decides to walk back into the fire of an old topic: sports. Whether you love 'em, hate 'em, or ignore 'em, they are a big part of our world. We spend immense amounts of time, energy, and money on sports; as participants, parents, and fans. Is this the way it should be? Whether you consider yourself a sports fan or not, give this episode a shot - and let us hear your cheers and boos afterwards!

What's inside Tyler's head these days? What do Chris and Graham think about it? Critiquing ideology, bumbling through Zizek's progressive philosophy, living simply but hypocritically, controversial leanings towards anarcho-socialism, hatred for golf, love for loud music, niche sci-fi, and wrestling.

In this episode, the gents talk about phones and social media. More specifically, should our kids be using them? Would schools be better with a phone ban? Would students be better off? Why don't we just do something about it?

Chris brings the heat with a surprise topic. Do we have free will? What does that even mean? Is God moving us around like pieces on a game board? Are we cogs in the machine of evolutionary nature? We hope you choose to listen to this episode, but if you don't, we hope fate leads you there anyway.

The gentlemen return for part two of a conversation about gambling and its effect on society, addiction, mental health, and where we're headed with sports betting. It's a topic they've discussed before, but this time, the gents are joined by long-time listener, friend, and ex-casino employee, Mike. He shares his thoughts on the issue and tells a few stories from his days as a dealer and pit boss. At the end of the episode, the crew takes an expensive field trip.

Brian Keating is a professional speaker, writer, broadcaster, international nature tour guide, and naturalist. He joins the gents to talk about travelling around the world exploring the greatest wonders of nature, elephant funerals, hippo attacks, zoos, office owls... and much more! . . . #nature #wildlife #canada #alberta #ecology #naturalist #travel #animals

In this episode, the gents are joined by long-time listener and contributor, Kenton. As a follow-up to Graham's recent episode about the science of Climate Change, they discuss Alberta's recent energy crisis, our reliance on fossil fuels, the push for cleaner energy sources, and the role of private industry in solving environmental problems. As a long-time employee within the Oil and Gas sector, Kenton provides a new, although not uncommon, perspective for the gents to approach harmoniously. He provides data, experience, and thought-provoking insight to a topic that's so important globally, and has significant relevance within Alberta specifically. It's a great conversation, and we can't wait for you to hear it. . Thanks again to our harmonious friends at: Blindman Brewing: www.blindmanbrewing.com Veldhuisen Construction: www.veldhuisen.ca Cilantro and Chive: www.cilantroandchive.ca The King's University: www.kingsu.ca

Can you define anxiety? Can you identify anxiety in people around you? Do you, or someone close to you, struggle with anxiety? How should we deal with increasing rates of anxiety? Can we talk about it harmoniously? . Thanks again to our harmonious friends at: Blindman Brewing: www.blindmanbrewing.com Veldhuisen Construction: www.veldhuisen.ca Cilantro and Chive: www.cilantroandchive.ca The King's University: www.kingsu.ca

How much time do you spend each day thinking about the news and current affairs? Is this healthy? Are you in the know, or blissfully unaware? Where do you get your news? Facebook? Twitter? Tik-Tok, YouTube, Instagram, or Threads (like Graham)? Or do you surf the web, watch TV, or read the newspaper - like the actual, folded up bundle of paper and ink, newspaper? Or are you enlightened by podcasts? Do you trust the media you consume? Are you losing your appetite? Or is the news a consistent part of your daily diet? Is it making you healthier? Are you a better person for it? Linguist, author, human rights and political activist, Noam Chomsky says: “All over the place, from the popular culture to the propaganda system, there is constant pressure to make people feel that they are helpless, that the only role they can have is to ratify decisions and to consume.” But he also says: “The general population doesn't know what's happening, and it doesn't even know that it doesn't know.” So what do we do? Is the news essential to our survival? Or is it killing us? . Thanks again to our harmonious friends at: Blindman Brewing: www.blindmanbrewing.com Veldhuisen Construction: www.veldhuisen.ca Cilantro and Chive: www.cilantroandchive.ca The King's University: www.kingsu.ca

In this episode, Graham quizzes Chris and Tyler about the science of Climate Change. Without getting too political, they talk about responses to the Climate Change Crisis and share their feelings about the topic as it comes up in conversation with friends and family. What is Climate Change? How big of a deal is it? Do we talk about it enough? What actions are required in order to solve the problem? Give this episode a listen to rekindle the conversation about this topic, but stay tuned for part two with a surprise guest, coming soon! . Thanks again to our harmonious friends at: Blindman Brewing: www.blindmanbrewing.com Veldhuisen Construction: www.veldhuisen.ca Cilantro and Chive: www.cilantroandchive.ca The King's University: www.kingsu.ca

Consumerism, Christmas, and a Layered Sandwich Cake . Merry Christmas from the Gents! Join them at Phil's for a conversation about the value of tradition, the consumerization of popular holidays, and strange cakes. . Thanks to our harmonious friends at: Blindman Brewing: www.blindmanbrewing.com Veldhuisen Construction: www.veldhuisen.ca Cilantro and Chive: www.cilantroandchive.ca The King's University: www.kingsu.ca

Today, gamblers have more options than ever. The AGLC's paradoxical mandate is to ‘maintain the integrity of gaming activities while maximizing the financial return (to Albertans)” - akin to a person committing to a healthy diet but also to eating as much as possible.  Our government is addicted. But as long as citizens keep electing leaders that are happy to fund society on the backs of gamblers, and as long as Albertans like us keep showing up to volunteer, the same might be said for all of us. That we are all addicts. ("Who Wants Albertans to Gamble More?" - Evan Osenton, AlbertaViews.ca). . Thanks to our harmonious friends at: Blindman Brewing: www.blindmanbrewing.com Veldhuisen Construction:  www.veldhuisen.ca Cilantro and Chive: www.cilantroandchive.ca The King's University: www.kingsu.ca

Join the Gents as they chat with surprise guest, Jonathan Luscombe about growing up Queer in Central Alberta. In more recent years, Jonathan has played a big role in a local Pride Society, working towards creating a safe and inclusive community for all people. In this conversation they touch on a number of topics including the value of grassroots advocacy, nuanced communities, empathy, drag, and politics. Jonathan shares stories of challenge and success while working towards their goals, and a vision for how to continue the conversation harmoniously. . This episode is brought to you by our harmonious friends at: Blindman Brewing: www.blindmanbrewing.com Veldhuisen Construction: www.veldhuisen.ca Cilantro and Chive: www.cilantroandchive.ca The King's University: www.kingsu.ca

As the autumn winds whisper through the streets, it's not just the leaves that shiver. Some say the ghosts have a habit of making an appearance when you least expect it, and the line between the living and the dead gets blurry enough to make you question your sanity. Welcome to Red Deer, where the ghost stories are as real as the misnamed elk themselves, and the mysteries are as thick as the evening fog… . This episode is brought to you by our harmonious friends at: Blindman Brewing: www.blindmanbrewing.com Veldhuisen Construction: www.veldhuisen.ca Cilantro and Chive: www.cilantroandchive.ca The King's University: www.kingsu.ca . . . #mystery #haunted #alberta #canada #society #culture #conspiracytheories #reddeer #history #ghosts #paranormal

Fifty years ago, Chris' grandparents worked as psych nurses in Michener Center, where, at the time, over 1000 patients lived and learned. Alberta in the sixties, seventies, and eighties had more patients institutionalized, per capita, than any other province in Canada. It's not a secret that Michener Center's legacy included archaic and dehumanizing practices that needed to end. Abuse, neglect, and even forced sterilization were a part of the culture there.  The Proverbs say, “A good reputation and respect are worth much more than silver and gold.” How do we measure the reputation of a community? Can a city or town have values? Whose job is it to uphold them? When we pull down the walls of a mental institution or a residential school, do we convince ourselves that we have undone what went on behind them?  It's not hard to imagine that there is more than dust and rubble buried in the piles that are left behind. . Thanks to our harmonious friends at: Blindman Brewing: www.blindmanbrewing.com Veldhuisen Construction:  www.veldhuisen.ca Cilantro and Chive: www.cilantroandchive.ca The King's University: www.kingsu.ca

In 1954, the face of the Prince of Darkness was discovered lurking in the Queen of England's hair... Inspired by the similarly-named blog post by Kevin Anderson (see link below), this episode is a departure from the usual format, but a return to the familiar topic of conspiracy theories. Conspiracy theories are an important part of our history, and taking a closer look at how a specific controversy was handled by a prominent Albertan can tell us a lot about who we are. The question is, what can we do about it? . A special thanks to Kevin Anderson, author of Conspiracy Theories and the Canadians who Love Them, and instructor of Canadian history and Canadian Studies at the University of Calgary and Mount Royal University. His blog post on activehistory.ca was relied on heavily for this episode. Check it out at https://activehistory.ca/blog/2020/11/16/conspiracy-theories-and-the-canadians-who-love-them/ . Thanks to the anonymous voice actor who played John Blackmore. . Thanks to our harmonious friends at: Blindman Brewing: www.blindmanbrewing.com Veldhuisen Construction: www.veldhuisen.ca Cilantro and Chive: www.cilantroandchive.ca The King's University: www.kingsu.ca

In this episode, the Gents were joined by author, pastor, and all-around great guy, John Van Sloten. In a back room, surrounded by oak barrels and beer, they discussed the challenges of discerning God's voice, alternative views of "Church", macro-zoom lenses, and John's beautiful new book, God Speaks Science. . Thanks to our harmonious friends at: Blindman Brewing: www.blindmanbrewing.com Veldhuisen Construction: www.veldhuisen.ca Cilantro and Chive: www.cilantroandchive.ca The King's University: www.kingsu.ca

In this reflective journey, the gents take a deep dive into their first 98 episodes, candidly exploring moments of changing their minds, grappling with hypocrisy, and confronting regrets. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation as they set the stage for a brand-new century of harmonious discussions. . Thanks to Blindman Brewing, 5024 General Store, and Cilantro and Chive for making this possible. And thanks to Red Hart Brewing for hosting us. . Come celebrate with us on September 16th at Blindman Brewing in Lacombe. It's their anniversary party, and there will be live music, games, and great beer. Plus, we'll be recording our 100th episode and giving away some cool, new merch!

Who's into conspiracy theories now? . Have you heard the news? Apparently, some pretty powerful people have been keeping secrets from the general public. This doesn't really surprise us, but when the secret involves space-age technology and alien bodies, it definitely piques our interest. After discussing our own thoughts on whether or not this is legit, we connect this story to other conspiracy theories and our feelings about their harmful impact on society. . We'll be taking a few weeks off during August, but will be back in full force starting in September. Keep an eye out for special re-release episodes and details about our upcoming 100th Episode Celebration!

In this special adventure episode, the Gents take part in Pub Quiz Night at Red Hart Brewing before heading in separate directions to enjoy the beginnings of their summer holidays. They keep each other in the loop as they adventure in their own unique ways. Summertime is here! Build community, have some fun, and keep it harmonious!

In this episode, we get together with Dave Dale to debrief Alberta's recent election and talk about the state of democracy as a whole. Dave ran in the Lacombe-Ponoka riding as a member of the NDP. He reflects on the experience of running for election, knocking on hundreds of doors, losing the race to Jennifer Johnson (and her cookie dough comments), and remaining harmonious while campaigning as an underdog. Full disclosure: we reached out to candidates from multiple parties in various Central Alberta ridings, but Dave was the only one who got back to us! What a gent!

Join hosts Tyler, Chris, and Graham on The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast as they dig into the intricacies of dissent, protest, and civil disobedience, all while savoring mouthwatering giant pancakes at Phil's restaurant. The gentlemen examine the distinctions between legal protest, civil disobedience, and revolutionary action, tackling profound questions about their personal thresholds for taking action against injustice. With syrup flowing and plates piled high, Tyler, Chris, and Graham reflect on the historical significance of civil disobedience, drawing inspiration from influential figures such as Mahatma Gandhi, Rosa Parks, and Martin Luther King Jr. Then, they discuss their own willingness to engage in acts of civil disobedience, navigating the ethical complexities involved. They invite listeners to ponder their own moral compass and consider the role of dissent in shaping a more just and equitable society. Prepare to be challenged and inspired as The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast pushes the boundaries of civil discourse, inviting listeners to explore the power of collective action and personal convictions.

Buckle up! In this special episode, you can join the gents on their voyage to Cow-town for the East Town, Get Down music and food festival. Their adventure begins on a busy highway, and meanders through scenic cocktail establishments, too-small parkades, empty dive-bars, rockin' bowling alleys, and hoppin' Phillipino restaurants. The quest leads them to a Phillipino restaurant, where long-ago guest and favourite rapper, Homeboy Sandman performs. They deliver a t-shirt, and talk to a special guest before making the long, dark trek home.

With a particularly significant provincial election looming, the gents felt like attempting a harmonious conversation about politics. The conversation starts with general reflections on the state of our world and political discourse. Why does it seem to be getting harder and harder to have harmonious conversations about basically everything, but politics in particular? What's changed? Then, they share opinions about how democracy currently operates and whether or not this is the way it should be. How does privilege relate? Additionally, they talk about the horrible comments made recently by local UCP candidate, Jennifer Johnson. How much are voters willing to overlook when it comes to the integrity of their representative? When politicians say the quiet part out loud, does it actually help their campaign? Give the conversation a listen and let the gents know what you think. Whether you live in Alberta or not, this episode should start some good conversations about the state of our democracy. Keep it harmonious, or at least try!

In this episode of The Harmonious Gentlemen, the gents discuss "The Wisdom of Your Body" by Hillary L. McBride. The book explores how we can find healing, wholeness, and connection through embodied living, but let's face it - sometimes our bodies can be a pain in the butt (or neck, or knee). The gents share their reflections on the book, what they've learned, and what they continue to wonder about. They discuss ways to overcome societal pressures and expectations to develop a more positive self-image and a healthier relationship with ourselves and others. For some, embodiment can even lead to a fuller experience of the divine! Tune into this, the first book club episode, for some laughs, insights, and a reminder to appreciate the amazing machine that is our body. . A huge, special, thanks to Hillary L. McBride for writing this book, which was well-received by the gents. And thanks to Codi who recommended this book in a previous episode, and listeners who encouraged us along the way or read along with us!

In this episode, the Gents share something interesting and scientific. Through linguistic politics, plastic-eating worms, and the economics of happiness, they seek a harmonious approach to the complex world they live in. This episode was recorded in the company of friends, at the Craft Beer Commonwealth in Red Deer, Alberta.

Youths in the wild, password management, people who don't help when help is clearly needed... The gents got together at Phil's restaurant to rant and complain about pet peeves over eggs and corn beef hash. What exactly are pet peeves and where do they come from? If developing pet peeves is unavoidable, and annoying others with our behaviour is inevitable, how do we navigate this topic harmoniously? For starters, don't talk about it with your mouth full - and make sure you listen to this episode.

How can we do the most good for the world? What's the "elephant in the room" when it comes to opiate addiction? What does working for two years in the Alberta Oil Sands look like? . In Episode 89, the Gentlemen prove that they know how to read by taking turns sharing about something they've read recently. They present their key learnings, reflections, challenges, and questions to each other and have a brief conversation. The topics vary greatly, but they find harmony in the end. . Discussed in this episode: Doing Good Better by William MacAskill Opioids and the Elephant in the Room by Vincent Lam Ducks: Two Years in the Oil Sands by Kate Beaton . The Harmonious Gentlemen Book Club: The Gents are going to read The Wisdom of Your Body by Hillary L. McBride. Join them by reading it yourself! They will discuss the book in a future episode and would love to hear your thoughts along the way.

When you think about the "youth of today", are you hopeful or hopeless? In Episode 88, The Gents are joined by educator (he won the flippin' Governor General History Award for Excellence in Teaching), skateboarder, punk rocker, and "Rad Dad", Kristian Basaraba. They discuss whether or not we should be worried about the future of our species and how we can do a better job coming alongside the young people in our society more harmoniously. They talk a bit about parenting, teaching, Tik-Tok, and the good that results from a do-it-yourself punk-rock attitude. Thanks to Kristian for joining the Harmonious Gentlemen. Check out one of his more recent projects with the Rad Dads, at www.raddadsyeg.com

Father Cristino Bouvette, who is of Métis and Cree-Ojibwe heritage, joins the gents and discusses his view on faith and reconciliation as an Indigenous person and Catholic priest. He explains his rational, measured, and nuanced positions and shares an inside perspective on the recent Papal visit. From a unique point of view, Father Cristino addresses ideas such as ideological colonization, racial immunity, marxification, the media's illogical conclusions, and the importance of friendship in moving forward harmoniously. The gentlemen hope this episode serves as a catalyst for important conversations we need to keep having.

Did you know that our friends at Blindman Brewing enjoy a well-crafted story almost as much as they enjoy a well-crafted IPA? Over the past number of years they have worked with Alberta writers and CKUA to bring these two art forms together by publishing micro-fictions on the sides of their super-tall cans. The Gents have loved reading these stories while sipping a Super Session, Coffee Stout, or Super Mild, but had the pleasure of hearing some of these stories told live at a special event in the taproom at Blindman. In this episode, the Harmonious Gentlemen touch on the importance of a good story and how they are an important part of a more harmonious society. But, this one isn't about the Gents. It features the stories, told in the writer's own voice, as performed at the "Session Stories" event at Blindman earlier this year. We hope you are able to sit back and enjoy these terrific tales as much as we did!

Join the Harmonious Gentlemen as they delve into the world of Artificial Intelligence. The rapid advancement in AI technology has led to both excitement and fear. In this episode, they explore the potential benefits and dangers of AI, and separate fact from fiction. They'll be discussing the latest developments in AI and what they mean for our future. From ChatGPT to self-driving cars to intelligent robots, they'll be examining the impact of AI on society and the economy. They'll also be discussing the ethical implications of AI and the responsibilities of scientists, engineers, and policymakers. So whether you're an AI enthusiast or a skeptic, this episode is for you. Tune in to "The Rise of Artificial Intelligence: Brave New World or Dystopian Nightmare" and be part of the conversation.

In this episode, the Gents are enlightened on the traditions of a mysterious Christian denomination you've probably never heard of. Jess joins the pod and graciously shares her experiences with the religion known discretely as the "2x2's" by outsiders. She goes on to share an honest look into her deconstruction process and provides insight to the joys of reconstruction as well. It's a conversation well worth listening to. It's vulnerable. It's beautiful. And, of course, it's harmonious. . Follow Jessica's deconstruction story on Instagram: @mysoftself . Read "Preserving the Truth: The Church with No Name and its Founder, William Irvine" to learn more: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61885980-preserving-the-truth

In this episode, the Gents discuss the all-too-common experiences of burnout, stress, anxiety, and depression. These are issues that many of us face at some point in our lives, and it's important to have open and honest conversations about them. They explore the causes of these challenges and the difficulty in managing and coping with them. Whether you're dealing with these issues yourself or just looking to better understand and support those who are, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

In episode 82, the gents met up with special guest Will Fraser at their favourite skate cafe in Lacombe to chat about snowboarding, extreme sport athletes, psychology, and self-awareness. It was a very rad conversation that we think you'll love, no matter how extreme you are!

Join the gents for an early morning chat at Phil's restaurant. They get sincerely braggadocious and explore the intricacies of pride, and humility. Why is it so hard to brag on command? Why is it so easy to do it unintentionally? Is bragging healthy? And most importantly, which gent brags the most? Honestly, let them know what you think about that last one!

In Episode 80, the Gents try something different. Acting on the suggestions of loyal listener Andy, they attempt to take opposing sides on a series of topics. Starting with a surprise debate on a fairly serious topic, one needs to argue against his true feelings. Facing a moral dilemma, two are put on the spot and forced to analyze their choices. Finally, they discuss an ethical issue that is quickly becoming a reality in the world of science and medicine.

Episode 79 is all about bullying, getting bullied, and how to stand up to a bully harmoniously. The gents start their conversation by defining the term, "bullying", then dive deep into the past, revealing stories of being victims and perpetrators. The chat changes directions quickly and they move on to a discussion of what bullying looks like in the adult worlds of work, politics, and economics. Give this one a listen, tell your friends, and let them know what you think... or else!

In episode 78, Peter joins the gents for an enlightening conversation about conversion therapy, empathy, forgiveness, and religious freedom.

In this episode, the gents explore their impending demise. It's not as gloomy as you'd think, and they discover that death is actually pretty easy to talk about. Is there a "right way" to grieve? What's the best way to die? Does it matter what happens to your body after you die? Chris, Graham, and Tyler kill it on this one, but as always, they'd love to hear your thoughts. Get in touch on social media or send them an email at harmoniousgentlemen@gmail.com.

In Episode 76, the Gents take their show on the road to Angry Bear Growlers in Airdrie. There, they meet with a friend of a friend of the podcast, Dason, and hear his story of joining, participating in, and eventually leaving, the Mormon Church. Dason knows his stuff and shares a bit about the history of the church, the modern church, and his story of deconstruction and leaving. Dason shares with honest humility, and throughout the episode it becomes increasingly apparent that harmony is important to him. Thanks to Angry Bear Growlers for hosting, Blindman Brewery for brewing tasty brews, 5024 General Store and Cilantro and Chive for keeping it real, and especially Dason for joining us for this harmonious conversation. Learn more at www.straightfromthetapirsmouth.com, Dason's blog about a faith crisis and faith transition away from believing that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is the one true church on the earth.

In this episode, the Gents revisit a topic they happen to know a bit about. They start the conversation by addressing public perception of teachers and the comments they hear regularly about their chosen field of work. From there the chat meanders... from busting myths and defending the profession, to critical self-reflection and questioning career choices. Is public education broken? What's the solution? How do three educators find the time to create a podcast? Teachers must not work very hard...

It's the start of a new season (whatever that means), and the Gents are fired up and ready to go. In this episode they address the idea of awkwardness and why they avoid certain topics. They identify the inconsistencies in how they talk on and off the podcast, and wrestle with their fears of being cancelled. Considering who they are, should they tiptoe around hot issues? Or is it important to model civil discourse around topics that they may not feel qualified to talk about? They also talk about which topics may be ahead and touch on whether or not harmony is a realistic, or even worthy, goal for the podcast. It's a bit of an identity crisis, but don't worry, they aren't done yet!