Julie McCarthy: Jewels Says

Jewels says it's probably OK to tell little ones the truth when they have questions as long as we keep the explanations at their level, but also acknowledges, as usual, that she could be wrong. And if you have little loved ones in your life (don't we all?), she recommends writing good old fashioned letters and cards because young children like receiving mail and they'll know that you're thinking about them, even if they don't tell you.Try it sometimeemail: jewelssays@gmail.comNot actively checking Instagram, but still there... @jewelssays Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says 2025 will bring a lot of changes, reflecting on the past, hopefully FINALLY feeling better and fewer disappointments.Not likely, but one can at least dream, right?Oh, and men are not the default human and women ARE funny. And if you're sick for more than three days, SEE A DOCTOR.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Invisible Women - Caroline Criado Perez Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says that magical holiday experiences are worth doing and she wishes she had given her own children more experiences like her children are giving her grandchildren. Little ones can sense anger and tension even if you try hiding it, but hey! you name me a family with no dysfunction and I'll name you a family you don't know very well. Get some therapy! Then again, who can afford therapy?Mele Kalikimaka email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysJewels Sings: I'll be Drunk for Christmas Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says that as much as the past week was great, she feels guilty for not cancelling plans to stay in London longer, for loving the occasional late night G&T and a sparkling gorgeous dress and shoes. Maybe she's just a bad woman. Oh well. Grandfather Abe kind of made up for everything. Happy Christmas week, no matter whether or how you celebrate. Even if that's just some relaxo time alone. email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysJewels Sings: I'll be Drunk for Christmas Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says she forgot to remind everyone that she'll be doing a set on Aidan O'Loughlin's Thirst Trap this Saturday at the Bloor Street West Comedy Bar. Plus some listener comments on incels and universal vasectomies.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysJewels Sings: I'll be Drunk for Christmas - album and merchThirst Trap Tickets Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says she'd really like to hire tradespeople to fix issues at home and the rental property, and SURELY other people manage to successfully do so... why oh why can't WE hire anyone competent? Are competence and communication asking too much? Shouldn't heating issues be treated as a priority in December? Abe shares his most recent boiler debacles... one of which is still to be resolved.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysJewels Sings Christmas Album and merch - celebrating dysfunctional families everywhereEpisode References:AMI Electronics - Abe's dad goals - "We repair what others can't"South Park - You Call the Handyman Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says don't tell someone you love their daughter because your actions tell the truth. Life is short and undeserved commitment is overrated, so we should encourage young people to walk away when they recognize red flags, and vasectomies for everyone would prevent a lot of grief.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysJewels SingsEpisode References:The SlumflowerWorkin Moms. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says... oh where to even BEGIN? As usual, jewels has something to say about a few things, like traffic, shows, expectations, parties and beauty. Oh, and she would really prefer to keep Toronto's bike lanes that were only recently put in at taxpayers' expense. email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysMusic and Merch: jewelssings.comEpisode References:Lindsey StirlingGeorge Costanza, ArchitectThirst Trap at the Comedy Bar Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Jewels sits down with multi Juno award winning sound engineer Patric McGroarty, owner of Saint Clarens Records and producer of Jewels Sings: I'll be Drunk for Christmas.Our chat ranges from helpful recording tips, hiring musicians and producers, changes in the music industry, the value of creating something versus just working and his favourite thing ever - producing an album.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysPatric's Instagram: @saintclarensJewels SingsEpisode References:Saint Clarens Records Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says she's always been a bit strange, and talks about the self imposed pressure to make up for wasted opportunities and potential. If Ethel Merman can put out a disco album at age 71, maybe Jewels Sings wasn't such a ridiculous idea after all.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysJewels SingsThirst Trap at the Comedy Bar: December 14thEpisode References:The Ethel Merman Disco Album on Spotify and Apple Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says you're going to love hearing Aidan's perspective on how to approach interviews, build a career in television and comedy writing, happiness and the importance of humour.Plus I talk more than I should have in this episode, but... I'm a chatter, what can I say?Check out Aidan's monthly show Thirst Trap at the Bloor West Comedy Bar in Toronto, and subscribe to his blog.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysMusic and merch: jewelssings.comAidan's Insta: @aiderzBlog: Thirst TrapEpisode References:Comedy BarWorkin' MomsTallBoyz Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says she might be a bit of a hoarder when it comes to certain things, and even though haute couture is out of the question for most of us, we could all probably afford better quality if we bought less stuff. But don't underestimate the value of costume worthy clothing.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Niagara FallsCanada's Got TalentNet-a-Porter Canada (prices in USD WHYYYYY??)HoltRenfrew.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels chats today with two lovely young men, Caden and Landon, about their social media business, theatre, dating apps, girlfriends, marriage... these guys are thoughtful, ambitious, busy... a far cry from the basement dwelling trolls and incels we hear about all too often.Jewels says she really enjoys engaging with such bright young people and they're everywhere. email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysGoons: @goonsmediacoEpisode References:Kelowna Actors Studio Evil Dead - ON NOW until November 2nd 2024Canada's Got Talent - Free studio audience tickets ON NOW - Niagara Falls, Ontario Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says she might need to start burying her head in the sand to save her sanity from the relentless onslaught of dire news and social media posts, and mentions a couple of modern feminist heroes plus some suggestions to curtail violence that will never fly.Warning: this episode contains references to sexual assaultemail: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Podcast: The Story: Inside the Land of Silent WomenCastration: What Does the Data Tell UsThe Zeze Millz Show with The Slumflower Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels is joined once again by Canadian comedian, culture critic and content creator Andrew Johnston to chat 2024 US election buzz, bullsh*t, and predictions.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysAndrew's Instagram: @mandrewbrawnstonEpisode References:Podcasts:Trump's Project 2025: Up Close and Personal: Apple and SpotifyCall Her Daddy – Alex Cooper: Apple and SpotifyThe Story: The historian who picked nearly every winner calls the US election: Apple and SpotifyThe Al Franken Podcast: Apple and SpotifyThe Story: Why Tech Billionaires are Backing Trump: Apple and SpotifyAl Franken Book: Lies and the Lying Liars Who Tell Them Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says live performances are worth supporting, whether they're music, dance, comedy or theatre and if more of us attended early shows, more shows would be available and we could all get to bed at a reasonable hour.Yes, she's definitely getting old. Too old to accomplish anything heroic or start a night out after 9:00 pm.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssays Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says marriage should not be an aspirational goal, you don't need a wedding to wear a dress and have a party if that's really the point and there are a lot of good reasons to think long and hard before legally binding yourself to a partner. And a lot of stupid non-reasons that motivate some of us to do it anyway.Plus the romantic story of her parents' wedding day. email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssays Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Michael Esposito II is back for the second half of our chat about some intrusive, even embarrassing thoughts we have, like checking people out, irrational worrying, parental fear of letting go, their children's safety... maybe you can relate.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysMichael's Instagram: @mespo2 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Singer and actor Michael Esposito II joins Jewels again for a great grand and glorious chat about those weird intrusive thoughts we all have, Michael's album, hot men, OnlyFans, the lure of the ocean... we chatted for so long we needed two episodes.This episode is part one.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysMichael's Insta: @mespo2Episode References:Michael's album: Night and Day Jazz Standards Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says she hasn't quite yet come down to earth after Mamma Mia and shares some of the trials and favourite moments from both on stage and backstage. Her experience was also a reminder that the world is still full of wonderful young people and you're never too old until you're dead.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Kelowna Actors Studio - Education Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says most of us don't remember details as well as we think, it's hard to remember everything you've said to whom and a child's world today is very different from their parents' and grandparents'. Best to adapt rather than stubbornly clinging to old ideas and mistakes. It's better for us too. email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssays Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says she sometimes doesn't understand why children think the way they often do, even though she was an irrational child herself once upon a time, and even though lice aren't a health risk, they're gross and caused her nightmares back in the day.And it's possible that if a child looks excessively unkempt, people might subconsciously treat them as though they're not cared for. email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssays Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels chats with Kelowna Actors Studio Resident Music Director Spencer "appropriately named" Bach about his passion for playing, teaching, learning, listening to and sharing music and particularly musical theatre. Thank you for the music. If lockdown taught us anything, it was the importance of art. OH and is Spencer related to Johann Sebastian? We may never know.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysSpencer's Instagram: @spencer_bachEpisode ReferencesKelowna Actors StudioJohann Sebastian Bach Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says people are fascinating when you take the time to get to know them. She chats with actor/singer/great guy Michael Esposito II, who is playing Sky in Kelowna Actors Studio's Mamma Mia, and he has an album!!email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Michael's Instagram: @mespo2 Short Path: HopeShort Path: ExistNight and Day - Michael's albumWorkshop – The History of SummerJonathon MonroAdam MatthiasNora McLellan Deerhurst resortAlan Menken Musical: The Apprenticeship of Duddy KravitzRyan Scott Oliver Musical: 35 mm Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says Kelowna has some pretty impressive sports and showbiz venues, and she especially appreciates the Kelowna Actors Studio's investment in the technical side of their productions. The tech team are the unsung heroes. PLUS: Don't buy Mamma Mia tickets from resellers who inflate prices or are selling fake tickets!! YES THIS IS HAPPENING.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Prospera PlaceRotary Centre for the ArtsKelowna Actors Studio - Mamma Mia ticketsKelowna Community TheatreJewels Says: Airbnb : Not for Me (previous episode) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says one of the great things about an extended stay in Kelowna and being in Mamma Mia is the fabulous women she has met, one of whom is today's guest, Delphine Litke.Delphine is an actor, podcaster, a beautiful singer, a beautiful person, and one of Jewels' newest fun friends.Instagram: @jewelssaysemail: jewelssays@gmail.comEpisode References:Delphine's Instagram: @delphinesirenKelowna Community Theatre - this is where Mamma Mia is playingMamma Mia TicketsRock me Baby TicketsRocky Mountain High - an Evening with John Denver - TicketsBarb Samuel - Sista B and the BoysThe Tingle Podcast on SpotifyLee Holdridge and Lee on WikipediaKelowna Fringe Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says even though the Canadian public health care system is better than nothing, and hospitalization probably won't bankrupt you, it's no day at the beach trying to get medical care for something relatively inconsequential. And she loves having a chin again.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Jewels Says: Renovation Reminiscing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says love is blind - well, she's obviously not the first person to say that, but she AGREES that love is blind. When you love someone, even if that someone is a dog, they look so beautiful to you. Plus a less than satisfying - but final - scam conclusion.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Jackie Pirico's Instagram: @jackiepirico Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says sometimes the most mundane things can be frustrating when your life is too easy. Like finding an acceptable swimsuit or suffering in insufferable stilettos.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:The Shoe Doesn't Walk Celine Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says JFL Montreal is BACK, even if on a small scale - mostly men though - and as pride month wraps up, the complainers might need to be reminded of what's been happening to women's reproductive rights that we've taken for granted, and if you don't like what people post on social media, you are free to ignore it. We all make mistakes and life isn't fair, so we might as well relaaaaax and let things that annoy us go rather than amplifying them.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Just for Laughs Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says she felt a bit of the jewels jinx when she traveled to Kelowna, but is she being petty? Should you stand your ground when someone invades your space or just step aside and let them? Should you feel guilty for standing firm? Maybe the choice is to feel guilty or resentful. email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Okanagan Valley, BCMamma Mia! in KelownaMuster Dogs on Netflix - Snoop's favourite Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says the Ashley Madison documentary may be more layered than you might expect... it raises issues of hypocrisy, security, monogamy, marriage and has a few interesting characters. And whoever said dogs are just dumb animals has never truly known or loved a dog. Their personalities are as unique as ours in many ways, and her temporary charge, Snoop, is no exception. email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Ashley Madison: Sex, Lies and ScandalWired.com: Ransomware Is More Brutal than EverKelowna Actors Studio: The ProducersSoulpepper Theatre: Age Is a FeelingHotdocs: Donate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says it would be nice not to care about looking old, but she's pretty happy to be back to looking like herself. Is that shallow? Maybe, but it's ok to appreciate the icing on a cake and still be grateful for everything else that really matters.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Dr. Dominic BrayHayley McGee Patric McGroarty - Saint Clarens RecordsJewels Sings: I'll Be Drunk for Christmas Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels chats with comedian Andrew Johnston on non-profit financial woes and grifters, some of the ups and downs of self made content and the importance of creative work in all our lives, stage time and relentlessly putting one creative step in front of the other for its own sake, even if - or especially if - you feel like you're in the deepest, darkest rut. Do it for yourself because the streamers pay a pittance.Plus Andrew's new album! May 31st Live Album Recording at the Comedy Baremail: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssays@mandrewbrawnstonEpisode References:Sirius XM Comedy Club Ben Miner @abenminer Sound ExchangeSuper Bloom Show: @superbloomshow Co hosted with Babs Gray @babs_gray Babs' podcast: Toxic: The Britney Spears StoryAnd last but not least, though less important than the album record show: Laugh Sabbath at The Comedy Bar Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels chats with Ben Afleck about podcasts, travel, their shared love of theatre, Ben's diverse professional and creative successes thus far and the reticence, risks and rewards of creating something new.Plus Ben introduces World's Best Pod, launching soon.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssays@bestolondonBest of London podcastEpisode References:Peter Kay's Car ShareAdam and Joe ShowPunch Drunk immersive theatreViola's Room - available now!You Me Bum Bum TrainRomano Viazzani - London TangoDerren Brown - How to Beat the Casino Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels chats with her firstborn, Katherine, about plastic surgery, cosmetic enhancements and specifically, her greatest gift yet, aside from the obvious - the facelift - what it was like, the results so far and how her recovery is going.No more melting candle.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysKatherine: @kathbumEpisode ReferencesDr. Dominic Bray@drdominicbray - you need to see Dr. Bray's results!Just Baskits in SarniaSedation Solutions Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels chats this week with Grandfather Abe the Babe about his perspective on some of the differences between women's and men's expectations in a relationship and what motivates men to cheat. email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Chidera Eggerue: @theslumflower Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says she's struggling a bit with the no caffeine, low salicylate pre-facelift diet, maybe it's not such a bad thing to be high maintenance and it's important to support people who have the courage to create something.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Tom Hearn on TourEdinburgh FringeHot Docs - Documentaries, not Hot Doctors JFL Montreal - No shows because IT'S CANCELLED. BOOOOOOOAndrew Johnston - creator and host of Andrew's Legends' Ball Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says don't judge a place by what you see on the news, 'news' or clickbait. Most people are great and even though she hasn't been to Florida in over 20 years, one weekend in St. Augustine left her wanting more.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Dr. Gabor MatéSt. Augustine Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says Kerrie must have been born with BDE as she clearly demonstrated throughout her childhood. Don't feel badly if you don't have it though... you're in good company. It wouldn't be special if it weren't at least a little bit rare.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Hidden Brain: The Ugly Side of Beauty Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says even though she's happy to be aging, and grateful for her good health, she has never been able to shake the self consciousness about the visible part of the process. And now, Katherine has come to the rescue.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Dr. Dominic BrayInstagram: @drdominicbrayClinique de ModeInstagram: @kerriemarieryan Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says she used to enjoy special occasions a lot more when her children were young, even though she was a bit of a frazzled mess at times and a bit overwhelmed with so many responsibilities. Like the daily grind of making food. And guilt because we should be grateful to have so much food. email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssays Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says she has a hard time understanding a lot of things, like why some people seriously hate live theatre, or adults who are fine with shirking responsibility, or how the world will ever emerge from violence and chaos. email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:London show ticket recommendations from a listener (not confirmed by me):ShowFilmFirstTheatre MonkeyLove TheatreToday TIX - lots for NYC but might be better to show up at the box office if you're there to avoid fees Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says it's her own fault she was scammed but thankfully it was for small sum. Plus she shares highlights from her week in New York City with Grandfather Abe the Babe, Joanne and Richard.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:The Scam CompanyAmerican Museum of Natural HistoryMarie's Crisis CafeNintendo New YorkLego Store New YorkBack to the Future Tommy (not Tommy Boy)AladdinSpamalotThe Lion King Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says she completely understands why her agent dropped her and reminds you that even though it's never too late to try new things, it's better to start young, because your future can take some unexpected turns. And she imagines a life with her mother Dorothy if things had gone differently for them both.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Grey Gardens DocumentaryGrey Gardens Film Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says maybe stubborn independence doesn't serve us well, we really only have choices if we believe we have choices and the social media companies need to be more accountable for customer safety.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:The Slumflower Hour Podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels chats with acclaimed comedy writer, Heidi Brander.Heidi says a TV comedy writers' room is a lot like it's depicted on 30 Rock. If you aspire to a seat in one of those rooms, you should know that no one wants to read anything, so stand up comedy was Heidi's path to writing jobs. Plus, like it or not, making connections matters more than you think.email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysHeidi:Instagram: @heidibranderIMDBEpisode ReferencesHeidi Brander - Big Shiny JokesThis Hour has 22 MinutesBaroness von Sketch - UnfoundedSon of a Critch Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says she has the three year rule for a reason, it shouldn't take anyone that long to get out of a relationship with someone who treats you disrespectfully and it's worth challenging some of the ideas you grew up with.Plus some lessons from a former relationship that soured over 40 years ago.Email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssays Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says romantic love is overrated and sometimes even dangerous, so Valentine's day should celebrate ALL the loves in our lives – friends, family, pets and especially the children in our lives. Today's special guest, Kalie, shares some of her insight from working with children. It's possible to be firm, fair and fun. If in doubt, sing, don't shout! If you have the privilege of hearing Kalie sing, you will understand why the children pay attention. One of my favourite Kalie songs - A Red Dwarf Star is Born – Science Songs by AsapSCIENCE - you're welcome.AND if you can get to Sarnia in May 2024, YOU CAN SEE Kalie as ARIEL in The Little Mermaid (sorry, people who can't get to Sarnia)Email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram @jewelssaysKalie: @misskalie Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says she appreciates a well written sitcom, not everyone wants to be partnered up, giving birth does not ruin your figure, and wouldn't we all appreciate a lot less criticism? email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:Katherine Ryan: Parental GuidanceHot in ClevelandLove on the SpectrumNyad Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jewels says perspective is powerfully influenced by our lived experiences, and shares how this hit home on her recent night out for dinner and dancing with a gal pal. Email: jewelssays@gmail.comInstagram: @jewelssaysEpisode References:KISS (no tour dates listed) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.