KC Keeping It Real

The Tokyo Summer Olympics were unique in several ways - no crowds, delayed a year, sweltering heat and athletes bringing mental health into the mainstream.  In this episode I'm joined by Jassett Crooks, a Therapist with the Canadian Mental Health Association. We talk about the impact that professional sports and fame puts on mental health. In particular, we discuss Simone Biles and Naomi Osaka.  Show Notes: Toyko Olympics  How Simone & Naomi are changing the conversation on mental health  

For over 3 decades Marlene Corey has been a TV Producer/Director and has worked contract assignments with TSN, CBC Sports and Dome Productions all while being a full time staff Producer with Cogeco.  Marlene recently received the Athena Award as part of the Windsor Essex Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards in May 2021.  In this episode we chat about the power of community and collaboration. Her journey into journalism and the importance of mentoring.  Show Notes: Athena Award Athena International  Your TV    

Last week AMAZON bought MGM for $8.45 billion.  And a few weeks ago there was the AT&T merger with Warner Media and Discovery. This could be a pivotal moment for Big Tech and Industry. In this episode of KC Keeping It Real, Sarah Marrs, Chicago Film Critic & Writer, is back to explain the significance of this deal. Is this the start of more mergers? What does this mean for your Amazon Prime viewing? How will this impact the theatre experience? Sarah breaks it all down for us.  Show Notes: Warner Borthers Discovery  New York Times article Good luck, Amazon. Unpacking MGM's vault may be harder than it sounds Lainey Gossip   

Back by popular demand! Sue Taylor is back to talk online dating.  We talk about the ins and outs of the most popular platforms, safety considerations, perfecting your profile and photo and how to meet your sole-mate!   Show Notes: Match Tinder Bumble Hinge Elite Singles   

As a fellow divorcee I can share that is one of the most emotionally wrenching experiences of my life. I can also share that 11 years post-divorce I'm happier and more fulfilled than ever! In this episode I'm joined by fellow divorcee, Sue Taylor. We share insights and information based on our divorce expereinces.  Sue also shares tips for online dating! Not to be missed!!  

Suicide deaths have generally held steady in Canada, averaging around 4,000 a year. Of those, 90 per cent were people already suffering from a mental health illness. In further tragic statistics, for every suicide death, there are 25 to 30 attempts.  In this episode my guest is Mark Henick, Mental Health Advocate and Strategist joins me in advance of his keynote remarks at Wake Up Speak Up on May 4.  Mark has lead an unbelievalbe life faced with divorce, financial strain, trauma, mental illness and abuse. Yes, his story is one of resiliency and hope.  In this interview, Mark shares the journey of writing his book, "So-Called Normal", thoughts on the mental healthcare system, what he would say to someone thinking about suicide and why it's important to not take things too seriously.    Show Notes: Mark Henick  Ted Talks  The Man in the Light Brown Jacket  USA Today   

It's that time of year again! The 2021 Academy Awards are happening on Sunday, April 25. To say it's been a unique year for cinema would be an understatement. Yet, there are a number of very strong Oscar contenders.  In this episode I'm joined by fellow movie lover Vincent Geogrie, Executive Director, Windsor International Film Festival. We chat about the state of the film industry, the significance of awards, film fesitvals and our pics for the major categories.  Show Notes:  Oscar Nominations 2021 Variety Magazine  Windsor International Film Festival  AM800 Dan MacDonald Show 

Judy Garland, Richard Burton, Glenn Close, Alfred Hitchcock, Peter O'Toole - these are just some of the Hollywood legends who have never won an Academy Award.  As we gear up for the 2021 Oscars on April 25, Producer Rob and I share our thoughts on Oscar snubs, misses and surprises. We also share our thoughts the Best Picture nominees from the past 5 years to see how they've aged. And finally we share some of our favourite Oscar moments.  Show Notes: Paul Giamatti Best Oscar Hosts  Why "Crash" beat "Brokeback Mountain" Rob Lowe & Snow White Open Oscars 

Over the last couple of years the Windsor Essex Compassionate Care Community has developed to provide supports and connections for our community. Whether it's check ins with some of our most vulneralbe, or virtual sessions being offered from the comfort of your home, the WECCC is all about enriching the community and creating connections.  In this episode, I'm joined by Joe Perry, a social worker, entertainer and now lead on the WECCC. He shares what it's all about, how to access the service and why connection is more important than ever.  Show Notes: Windsor Essex Compassionate Care Community  Windsor Star article How to Live to Be 100 Gilda's Club 

Were you one of the millions who tuned into the TV Event of the Year? On March 7 Oprah showed how an interview should be done when she spoke with Prince Harry and Meaghan Markle. You've heard all of the revelations. Now in this episode of KC Keeping It Real we look at the interview with a mental health lens.  In this episode I'm joined by Dana St. Jean, Pandemic Response Therapist with the Canadian Mental Health Association in Windsor-Essex. We do a deep dive into suicidation, the stress of living under a microscope and the trauma associated with grief.  Show Notes: CMHA Pandemic Response Therapist  Bereavement Services  The Interview 

Being a successful entrepreneur takes skills, patience and perseverance. In this episode I'm joined by Maiko Sakai, founder of Airtight Concepts, a business strategy consultant. As the Queen of Counterintuitive Strategies, Maiko helps entrepreneurs boost sustainable profitablility for her clients' businesses.  We talk about the top 3 tips for successful entrepreneurs, decision-making, the Creation Archetype and the importance of "showing up." Show Notes: Airtight Concepts Creation Archetype Quiz 

In this episode Olympian Noelle Montcalm joins me to talk about training for the 2021 Toyko summer Olympics, training during a pandemic and what keeps her motivated.  Show Notes: Tokyo Summer Olympics University of Windsor Track and Field Sole Focus Project Fast and Female - Empowering Women Through Sport 

What makes people feel better than music? In this episode of KC Keeping It Real, I'm joined by my good friend Dan MacDonald to talk all things Grammys. We break down our picks for the major categories, our favourite Grammy moments and more! Show Notes: Top Grammy moments Grammy Awards 2021 Grammy 2021 Predictions 

70% of mental health problems have their onset during childhood or adolesence Funding to child mental health services has decreased by almost 50% over the last 25 years 5 out of 6 children with a mental health issue will not receive treatmentEven prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a mental health crisis. The pandemic has shone the light more brightly on the crisis and the gaps. This is particularly apparent for youth. In this episode I'm joined by Noah Corio, Director, Public Relations, for Noah's House Foundation. This foundation aims to bridge the gap between mental and emotional support offered in Windsor by bringing the city its first ever mental health-focused youth centre.Show Notes:Noah's House Pandemic driving more young people to seek mental health helpYouth Mental Health Canada Facts about Mental Health The Liberty Project 

We're Back.....Just in time for Valentine's Day Producer Rob and I share our thoughts and opinions on "The Prom" produced by Ryan Murphy. The film, now playing on Netflix, includes an all-star cast including Meryl Streep, Golden Globe nominee James Corden and Nicole Kidman. The film features a troupe of hilariously self-obsessed theatre stars who swarm into a small conservative Indiana town in support of a high school girl who wants to take her girlfriend to the prom.Show Notes:The Prom Rotten Tomatos Review Golden Globes 2021 

Did you know that our skin is the largest organ in our bodies? In this episode I talk with Charmaine Gillis, owner of Ocean Bottom Soap Company. Charmaine is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to all things wellness and being a powerhouse business woman. Her hustle is amazing!Charmaine shares that self-care can start with  what we expose our bodies to. Learn about her journey and why it's more important than ever to invest in quality products for your body, your mind and overall health. Show Notes:Ocean Bottom Soap Co. 

Natasha E. Feghali, an award winning Canadian for her philanthropy in community and strong dedication to education. She is the receipient of the 40 Under 40 United Way/ Leadership Windsor-Essex Award 2018 as well as numerous awards and recognitions; most notably the Sovereign Canadian Medal in 2015 for her dedication to education and the future of entrepreneurship and youth. In addition to teaching full-time locally and internationally, Natasha is a property owner, entrepreneur and philanthropist. Show Notes:Natasha Feghali English as a Second Language The Handmaid's Tale 

Welcome to the 1st episode of 2021!Our theme for January is Peak Performance for 2021!We can't reach peak performance if our physical and mental health is not a priority. In this episode I'm joined by Health & Wellness Coach, Ashleigh Atkinson. Ashleigh has a WEALTH of information and has helped hundreds of people reach their health and fitness goals, myself included. Whether you are looking for some motivation to get started, or want to "up your game" this year, Ashleigh shares lots of great info and tips to make 2021 your best year! Show Notes: Iron Forged FitnessCanadian Physique Alliance Muscle Insider 

In this final installment of Holi-Yay or Neigh for 2020, we share thoughts on one of Producer Rob's favourite Hallmark movies - "Christmas at Pemberley Manor." You may have to dig a little to find it but check it out. Show Notes: Christmas at Pemberley Manor

Happy Holidays!For Christmas Eve we are pleased to share our latest Holiday movie review. In this episode we share our thoughts on "Love Lights Hanukkah" featured on the Hallmark Channel. Show Notes:Love Light HanukkahToronto Star Review

I'm SO excited to share my final episode of 2020 with you. My special guest is a friend, mentor and all around Powerhouse!!Laura Fredrick is the Billion Dollar ASK Maker who is CEO & Founder of The Ask. She trains and coaches individuals, businesses and non-profits on How to Ask and Get exactly what you want. Her latest book, "The ASK: For Business, For Philanthropy, For Everyday Living is the "must have book" for anyone who wants to achieve their ultimate best life!Show Notes:Laura Fredricks, The Epert on The ASK Laura Fredricks YouTube Hollywood Report (Oct 2020) Shonda Rhimes 

Super excited to share our thoughts on "Happiest Season."This movie broke premiere records for viewership for any original film on Hulu in its opening weekend & attracted more new subscribers than any other previous feature title. Hear how many Golden Rings we give this film. Show Notes:Happiest SeasonHappiest Season - Variety article 

In this episode I'm joined by co-host Dan MacDonald host of the Dan MacDonald show on AM800. We share some of our favourite things to give and receive for Christmas. All are local. Be sure to check out my FIRST video episode on the link below:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TV1ifKOOnJw&t=752sShow Notes;Thank YOU to all of these vendors for participating in our Holiday Giving episode!! Oceans Bottom Soap Company Sarah’s BakeryElysian Beauty BarEnvy BoutiqueEsteem Medical Asthetics Image ClinicKnotty CreationsTracey’s Creative Candles What’s Poppin’Soda Pop BrosWindsor Tea EmporiumA Little Cloud Studio Storytellers Book Store

We're BACKKKK! This week Producer Rob & I share our thoughts on Christmas Waltz from the Hallmark Channel. Enjoy!!Thank You to Banwell & Windsor Pharmacy for sponsoring this series! Show NotesChristmas Waltz

Doug Smith is a journalist with The Toronto Star who has covered the Toronto Raptors for 25 years!!He recently published "We the North" about the journey of a new NBA team in Canada from humble beginnings to Jurassic Park. The book is a MUST read for any basketball fan. In this episode Doug shares fascinating insights about covering the team, his relationships with coaches and players and his favourite stadium to watch a game live. Show Notes:We the North (book)Doug Smith Toronto RaptorsDoug Smith - The Toronto Star 

In this Installment of Holi-Yay or Neigh, Producer Rob & I share our thoughts on Christmas on the Square featuring the ONE and only Dolly Parton. Sponsored by Banwell Pharmacy.  Christmas on the Square 

Did you know that Windsor is home to 3 UFC athletes? In this episode I meet up with Kyle Prepolec, a professional mixed martial artist. He has competed in some of the biggest fight promotions in the world like Bellator and UFC.  We talk about the dedication and training needed to be a UFC fighter and his thoughts on the sport. Show Notes:UFChttps://www.mmafighting.com/ 

Ho Ho Ho. In this Installment of Holi-Yeah or Neigh Producer Rob and I share our thoughts and reviews of "Holly & Ivy" from Hallmark.  Show Notes: Holly and Ivy

Sandra Pupatello knows a thing or two about leadership, business, politics and the power of community. She represented Windsor for 16 years in the Ontario Provincial Government,  serving most of her years in Cabinet as Minister of Industry and Trade.In this episode we catch up with Sandra who shares thoughts on women leaders, the US election and experiencing loss. Show Notes:Sandra Pupatello  

We're back with Holi-Yeah or Neigh Installment 2. This time Producer Rob and I review "One Royal Holiday" from Hallmark. Thank you to our Holiday Movie Review sponsor Banwell Pharmacy. Show Notes:One Royal Holiday Banwell Pharmacy

Happy Holidays! Welcome to the first installment of KC Keeping It Real's Holi-Yay or Neigh Holiday Movie Review. Each week leading up until December 25 Producer Rob and I review a holiday movie. This week we watched "Holidate". Each film is reviewed using the Five Golden Rings rating system, with "5" being a movie leaving you in the holiday spirit. We encourage you to watch with us. And please be sure to let us know your thoughts. Holidate is currently available on Netflix. 

Since the onset of the pandemic a lot of us are experiencing exhaustion. This is even more pronounced for women in particular working mothers.In this episode I have the pleasure of talking to Chivon John, Wellness Educator, Speaker and Global Wellness Specialist at Shopify. Chivon is a passionate advocate of mental health and is devoted to helping ambitious achievers unlearn exhaustion as a necessary price of success. In addition to her wellness work, Chivon is an active member of her community and is devoted to making wellness resources more accessible for marginalized communities. In addition, Chivon is the Keynote speaker at the CMHA-WECB Women's Wellness Symposium on November 12, 2020. Show Notes:Chivon JohnShopifyTaking It GlobalCMHA-WECB Women's Wellness Symposium

Mike Kakuk comes into thousands of homes every day. He is family. For over 20 years thousands of listeners have started their morning with the Mike, Lisa Williams and Steve Bell on The Morning Drive on AM800 out of Windsor Ontario. In this episode I chat with Mike about the life of a morning show host, the best parts of the job and the person he would love to interview.  Show Notes:The Morning Drive Detroit TigersGolden RescueTed Lasso - Apple TV

October is Breast Cancer Awareness MonthOver the last 20 years, early detection and research have played critical roles in the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of breast caner. In this episode, I talk to Dr. Lisa Porter, Professor of Biomedical Sciences at the University of Windsor and ED or WE-SPARK Health Institute and Peggy Polewski, Breast Cancer Survivor and Advocate. Dr. Porter shares how important research has been for breast cancer treatment. A lot of exciting things happening right here at the University of Windsor. And Peggy shares openly and honestly about what a breast cancer diagnosis looks and feels like. A positive mind-set and humour are essential!Show NotesPorter LabWindsor Cancer Research Group WE SPARK Play for a CureBreast Cancer Society of Canada Windsor Essex Cancer Centre Foundation Healing Pretty 

Imagine becoming a first-time Member of Parliament in Canada. In this episode of KC Keeping It Real I chat with Irek Kusmierczyk, MP for Windsor-Tecumseh about his first year in office, the BUSY life of a politician and what goes on behind the scenes. Show Noteshttps://www.ourcommons.ca/members/en/irek-kusmierczyk(71820)https://www.wetech-alliance.com/City of WindsorLondon School of EconomicsPoland

Believe it or not we are in the final stretch in the race to the White House. In this episode I'm joined by esteemed journalist Zeeshan Aleem to talk about activities during the last few weeks of the Presidential campaign. At this point nothing is shocking, but it remains surprising.  Show Notes: Zeeshan Aleem Vox articlesPsychology of Donald TrumpBolivia Coup is Still Happening Portrait of a Lady on FireProspect Park - Brooklyn 

What a difference a week makes. In the past seven days it's been revealed that President Trump paid only $750 in federal taxes, ambushed the moderator and his opponent during the first debate and then tested positive for COVID-19. In this episode of KC Keeping It Real, Dr. Lydia Miljan, Professor of Political Science, University of Windsor joins me to talk about the debate, President Trump's psyche and what the future may hold for American politics. Show NotesCommentary of First Presidential Debate Diagnosed with COVIDPresident Trump's Taxes 

Thanks to the success of RuPaul's Drag Race and most recently Canada's Drag Race, there's never been a more exciting time to be a Drag Queen. Recently I had the chance to chat with Koko Starr about the life of a Drag Queen. Catch the Queens Live at upcoming shows through Lavender Promotions. Show Notes:RuPaul's Drag RaceCanada's Drag RaceKoko Starr 

Gavin Michael Booth is an award winning filmmaker. He works as a writer, director, producer, cinematographer and editor in the entertainment industry. He is an extremely driven and creative artist who has over fifteen years experience working within the film medium. He is definitely someone who always "keeps it real." In this episode we talk about one of his latest projects, "Last Call", what it's like living in Los Angeles amidst the pandemic and advice for those looking to get into the film industry. Show NotesGavin Michael Booth Bio Gavin's YouTube pageLast Call Theatrical Release 

After months of campaigning, Erin O'Toole was elected as the new leader of the federal Conservative party. By no means a household name, many Canadians know nothing about the man who may be the future Prime Minister. In this episode I'm joined by Andrew Brander, Senior Consultant with Crestview Strategy and Conservative insider. Find out why Canadians should be excited about Erin O'Toole's leadership and what we need to know about him. We also talk discuss the strategy of his campaign, relationship with the media and more! Show NotesErin O'TooleMaclean's Erin O'Toole's victory in 5 chartsMeet Erin O'TooleCrestview Strategy

There is no bigger issue for parents and educators than the safe return to the classroom for students. With less than 2 weeks until the start of the school year, there remain more questions than answers. Mario Spagnuolo, Local President of the Greater Essex Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario, joins me to provide clarity about the plans the Windsor-Essex Boards have shared. Class size remains a concern.  Show NotesGreater Essex County District School Board plan Windsor Essex County Catholic School Board plan Province of Ontario Back to School Plans Toronto Schools plans for reopeningSick Kids Statement on School Reopenings

Amidst the allegations of a toxic workplace environment at The Ellen Show, the Governor General's office, America's Got Talent and the Children's Aid Society of Toronto, this episode explores the nucleus of toxic workplaces and pro-active measures that companies can take to create a healthy, productive environment. Tony Gareri is my special guest. Tony is a the CEO of Roma Moulding. Upon being names CEO in March 2011 Tony laid the foundations for a culture shift that would profoundly affect the way they would do business.  Today Tony is an Ambassador for a workplace culture and happiness. Show Notes: Roma Moulding Tony Gareri Why a Toxic Workplace is a Liability for CompaniesEllen DeGeneresChildren's Aid Society Toronto Governor Generals Office

Skin is the largest organ in the body. In this episode of KC Keeping It Real I speak with Vanessa Steele, Manager & Lead Medical Aesthetician at Image Clinic. We talk about the importance of outstanding customer service, what you need to do to get the skin you deserve and why everyone should give Botox a try.  Show NotesImage ClinicVivier Skin Care Colour ScienceFacts about BotoxBenefits of Gardening

The 72nd annual Emmy awards include exciting nominations, including an unprecedented number from streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, Apple TV & Disney+.  Here to break it all down with me is Sarah Marrs, @Cinesnark. We look at the hits, misses and who we hope to see accepting awards in the virtual ceremony scheduled for September 20.  Show NotesList of nominees Snubs & Surprises The Hollywood Read Future of the Movie Industry Snyder Cut & Justice League 

In this episode of KC Keeping It Real I'm joined by Sarah Cipkar, Student Trustee at the Greater Essex County District School Board in Windsor. We discuss the various options for the safe re-opening of schools in September, the negative impact that home schooling has on students, parents and teachers.  NotesFall Re-opening plans to be announced next week People wary of full return to the classroom $250 million is needed just for safe return of Toronto area schools Hospital for Sick Children Return to School Recommendations Government of Ontario Approach to Reopening Schools Cipkar Development Christopher Nolan Batman TrilogyTenet Delayed again due to COVID

Amidst the latest ethical scandal facing the Liberal provincial government, I sat down with Scott Duquette, current president of the Windsor-Tecumseh PC Association, to talk about ethics and politics. How do governments regularly find themselves in ethical dilemmas, do you have to be ethical to be a politician anymore? And what goes on behind the scenes?Show NotesToronto Star - Background and Latest DevelopmentsWE CharityWindsor Tecumseh Conservative Ass. Twitter @srduquette3Media Works Studios

In this episode I talk to Joyce Zuk, Executive Director of Family Services Windsor Essex, about being a female politician, leadership, COVID responses and politics. And find out where you are likely to find Joyce hanging out on a weekend. The answer is sure to surprise you!!Show NotesFamily Services Windsor EssexJohn Maxwell Leadership booksCity of Windsor Women Representation - Municipal Government Canada

Nikki Pett and her staff at Sigma Promotions are gurus when it comes to customer service. In a COVID world, and moving forward, it's more important than ever before for businesses to have exemplary customer service. Learn some simple tips and strategies that will set you up for success no matter the size of your business. Show Notes Website - www.sigmapromotions.comEVA Principle - Engage Value Appreciate 

We only have one body so we better take care of it! Today I'm joined by Dr. Natasha Zajmalowski ND, a Naturopathic Doctor who always has invaluable information to share. Learn easy, natural ways to improve energy, sleep and diet. Show Notes:www.proactive-healthcare.com

To say it's been a devastating week would be an understatement. In this episode I'm joined by Irene Moore Davis and Teajai Travis to discuss the death of George Floyd, the protests happening in response and the role that each of us has to play. Show Notes: Canadian organizations to support:@blacklegalactioncentre@niacentre@blklivesmatter@blackhealthcan@blackwomeninmotion@blackyouthhelplineCanadian Anti-racism Education and Research SocietyUrban Alliance on Race RelationsVoices + sources to follow and amplify:Trevor Noah: https://twitter.com/TheDailyShow/status/1266523344624631809?s=20https://twitter.com/TheDailyShow/status/1266523374207057922?s=20 Rachel Cargle: https://linktr.ee/1thatgotawayyAustin ChanningEricka Hart https://www.instagram.com/p/CA4VcqhAphU/Layla F SaadThe Conscious KidTa Nahisi CoatesDonte ColleyThe Fat Sex TherapistMatters of RepresentationHere We ReadThe Nap MinistryMonique MeltonQuestions to ask yourself, if they apply to you:- Why is it imperative not to be silent?- Why it is up to *me* to do the work?- How do I account for my white privilege and/or positional power so I don’t reinforce it?Movies Referenced:American Son  - available on NetflixWhen They See Us - available on Netflix 

Nothing in our lives has been unaffected by the COVID19 pandemic, including sports. Veteran Sports Reporter, Steve Bell, joins me to talk about what professional sports will look like in a COVID world and when will our kids be able to get on the field/rink again?