The Canadian Star System with Steve Patterson

On this week's episode, Steve and Diana chat with the star of the new hit CBC comedy Son Of a Critch - Newfoundland's own, Mark Critch! Mark explains how weird it was to play his own father while doing voice over for a character based on his own childhood, what it felt like to recreate his family's living room, and the surreal comedy advice he got from Dan Aykroyd in the 90s.Mark introduces us to fellow East Coast comedian, Vicky Mullaley! Also from Newfoundland, Vicky has a hellova hell gig story, how support from fellow comedians like Mark has helped her career, and why doing funny song parodies and videos during the pandemic kept her sane.You can follow Mark on twitter @markcritch or on Insta @critchmark.You can check out more of Vicky's video on her website: www.vickeymullaley.com or follow her on Twitter @VickyMullaleyHOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com)This show is brought to you by The Apostrophe Podcast Network and is powered by Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Steve and Diana go on an EPIC journey with none other than legendary comedian and weed aficionado, Tommy Chong. What do they talk about? WHAT DO THEY NOT TALK ABOUT?! Grab a seat and buckle up because this chat goes everywhere from growing up poor in Alberta and going to church for entertainment, to hustling at pool, to the rise of Cheech and Chong, to sharing a jail cell with the Wolf of Wall Street! In a beautifully unique twist, Tommy shines a posthumous light on someone we should all know more about in Canada - poet Patrick Lane. Tommy and Patrick grew up together and Patrick's journey from blue collar labourer to one of Canada's most respected poets is incredible. Steve and Diana are honoured to have Patrick's widow Lorna Crozier (a well-respected poet as well) read one of Patrick's poems called ‘Hummingbird.'To learn more about Tommy Chong, check out his website at www.tommychong.com or follow him on Twitter @tommychongTo learn more about Patrick Lane, please visit www.patricklane.ca where you can learn more about the release of his posthumous book of poetry curated by Lorna Crozier called ‘The Quiet in Me.'To learn more about Lorna Crozier, please also check out: www.lornacrozier.caHOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com)This show is brought to you by The Apostrophe Podcast Network and is powered by Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Diana and Steve chat with the songwriter's songwriter of songwriters, none other than Mr. Ron Sexsmith!Ron talks about how Elvis Costello helped launch his early career, how the town of Stratford inspired the cover art for his new album ‘Hermitage,' and of course - he and Steve wax poetic about the beauty of a ‘good pun.'Ron shines the spotlight on his fellow musician, songwriter and friend Lori Cullen! Lori describes how music has saved her life through Covid, as well as her collaboration with Sexsmith and Swinghammer. And if that sounds like a sexy combination of words, just wait till you hear her story about that album being accidentally played at a swinger's party.To find out more about Ron Sexsmith including upcoming tour dates, be sure to check out his website www.ronsexsmith.com and follow his pun-tasticness on Twitter @ronsexmith To learn more about Lori Cullen be sure to check out her website www.loricullen.com where you can find the videos and albums we chatted about.To learn more about Steve's mini-spotlight of the Winnipeg Comedy Festival, go to https://www.winnipegcomedyfestival.com/And to learn more about the comedians from the Winnipeg Comedy Festival that Steve adored, check out:Ryan Williams on Twitter: @rywilliamscomic and on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpeuEl80wKS4VkRnxQd0XbwBree Parsons on Insta: @Brieparsonscomedy and on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjUGbC97DxjNDatADhaZm6wMatt Falk: Website: www.mattfalkcomedy.comHOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com)This show is brought to you by The Apostrophe Podcast Network and is powered by Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we head east to celebrate Canada's Queen (and Princess Warrior) of Comedy - Mary Walsh! As a founding member of the legendary sketch groups CODCO and This Hour Has 22 Minutes, Mary muses on why Newfoundland produces so many great comedians, how she's been playing old characters since she was young, and the origin story of Marg Delahunty.Mary shines the spotlight on her fellow Newfoundland comedian and writer Dave Sullivan! Dave and Mary star in the award-winning web series The Missus Downstairs on Bell Fibe, (which just won Best Performance at the LA Comedy Film & Screenplay Festival!) Dave explains the backstory to the hilarious web series as well as everyone's obsession with Mary Brown's chicken.Check out more of Mary Walsh on her website www.marywalsh.ca or follow her on Twitter @marywalsh11You can also follow Dave Sullivan on Twitter @DaveJSullivanAnd to watch The Missus Downstairs in Canada, go to www.tv1.bell.ca/fibetv1/shows/the-missus-downstairs HOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com)This show is brought to you by The Apostrophe Podcast Network and is powered by Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week we keep Season Two rocking and rolling along with legendary Canadian musician, radio host and storyteller, Randy Bachman!Randy regales Steve and Diana with rock star quality stories from the road, how The Guess Who got their start (hint, that wasn't their original name!) how Vinyl Tap came to be on CBC Radio and its new, syndicated home at Corus Entertainment!Randy shines the spotlight on his son, Tal Bachman - a star in his own right, but how could we say no to double Bachmen? Tal talks about the joy of working and touring with his Dad, and the genesis of their hilarious, unscripted YouTube show called Bachman & Bachman.NOTE: This episode was recorded prior to Randy announcing that health issues have forced him to postpone his Vinyl Tap live tour - which has now been rescheduled for November of 2022. For more information on Randy's upcoming tour dates, check out www.randybachman.comTo listen to the new Vinyl Tap show, go to: www.vinyltap.com/To watch Bachman & Bachman on Youtube, check out: www.youtube.com/c/BachmanBachmanchannelYou can follow Randy on Twitter @RandysVinylTapYou can follow Tal on Twitter @tal_bachmanMINI SPOTLIGHT: To pre-order the novel OTHER PEOPLE'S SECRETS by Meredith Hambrook, check out: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/709903/other-peoples-secrets-by-meredith-hambrock/9781639100989?fbclid=IwAR3kogiqoIlJI-3c5IztFoYfnRM5XlbnIH_Wn32n7SMmKhypQFlj-yy27w4Or follow Meredith on Facebook: @meredithhambrockbooksHOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com)This show is brought to you by The Apostrophe Podcast Network and is powered by Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

To kick off Season Two of the podcast, Steve and Diana chat with one of Canada's brightest, energetic and positive personalities - star of the new CBC comedy ‘Run the Burbs' - Andrew Phung!Andrew explains how including his Vietnamese/Chinese parents into his love of comedy made them his biggest fan (to the point where his Mom will tell people on airplanes to watch Kim's Convenience). Plus he explains his love of sneakers, Calgary and getting his start in improv at Loose Moose Theatre.Andrew introduces us to the woman who plays his sister Carol on ‘Run The Burbs,' Kimberly-Ann Truong! Kimmy (as she likes to be called) is a triple threat who was thrilled to finally play an actual Vietnamese character on Broadway in Miss Saigon, and how her head nearly exploded when she read the script for 'Run the Burbs' with so many Vietnamese characters. Kimmy also regails us with stories of taking mandatory classes on set etiquette through the acting union (which no one else had to do!) and the exciting new projects she has coming out soon, including ‘Take Note' on NBC.To support The Possible Garden Project (which Diana shone a spotlight on this episode), check out their GoFundMe page at: https://gofund.me/a13d1eecOr visit their website at: possiblegarden.orgHOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com)This show is brought to you by The Apostrophe Podcast Network and is powered by Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, we talk about upcoming episodes!Steve is busy preparing for The Debaters Live Tour so Diana and our technical director Donovan announce our Season Two launch date, and how you can see both him and Steve live in person in the next few months! (Fun fact, Diana writes for the Debaters Live tours, so even though she's not physically there, she's kinda there.)If you're keen to see The Debaters Live, check out the tour schedule here: https://debaterslive.com/And if you'd also like to see Diana be funny on stage, you can follow her all female improv and standup comedy show Girls Nite Out on Twitter at https://twitter.com/GirlsNiteComedyAnd on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/girlsniteoutcomedyimprov/HOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com)This show is brought to you by The Apostrophe Podcast Network and is powered by Acast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special ‘bonus' episode, Steve, Diana and our technical producer, Donovan, recap some of the best answers from Season One to the question, ‘The Canadian star system is…'Guests such as Allana Harkin, Griffin Cork, Fred Penner, Bruce McCulloch, Terry O'Reilly, Colin Mochrie and Deb McGrath weigh in with what they think the Canadian star system is, should be and could be!If you haven't already, be sure to listen to all their episodes from Season One, which should tide you over until we launch Season Two very soon!HOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the special BONUS EPISODE of The Canadian Star System, where our featured guest is none other than author, podcaster, keynote speaker, advertising guru, and *technically,* Steve and Diana's podcast boss - Terry O'Reilly.If you're a fan of Terry's insanely popular CBC Radio show and podcast, UNDER THE INFLUENCE, then you're going to love this bonus episodeDiana and Steve dive into Terry's newest book, MY BEST MISTAKE, and talk about how finding the ‘hidden gift' in a terrible situation can be the first step towards pulling yourself up out of the mud you may feel stuck in. In these weirdo times where everything seems bleak and so many people feel broken and defeated, we hope this conversation about how mistakes can be gifts is the early Christmas present you didn't know you needed! Terry also shines the spotlight on HIS favourite podcasts that you're definitely going to want to subscribe to (along with all the excellent Apostrophe podcasts!)If you'd like to find out more about Terry's new book, MY BEST MISTAKE, check out his website www.terryoreilly.ca. And if you'd like to learn more about the other excellent podcasts in the Apostrophe Podcast Network, (such as WE REGRET TO INFORM YOU), be sure to go to www.apostrophepodcasts.caYou can follow Terry on Twitter @terryoinfluence and on Instagram @terryoinfluenceYou can follow the Apostrophe Podcast Network on Twitter @apostrophepod & Instagram @apostrophepod HOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For our season one finale, we are THRILLED to have the Canadian Queen of R&B and soul - none other than Jully Black! Jully regales us with tales of meeting the other Queen (of England) and shares some of the wise words of wisdom from her mother. She also explains how having a degree in law enforcement has been invaluable when navigating the complicated and often financially dangerous aspects of the music industry.Jully introduces us to the incredible actress Vinessa Antoine! Vinessa is the first Black female lead of a Canadian drama series on the hit CBC show Diggstown (which is a huge accomplishment but also bonkers that it took this long to happen). Vinessa talks about the importance of having a supportive, Black showrunner in Floyd Kane, the gruelling job of acting on General Hospital and the love she has for her surf double.To learn more about Jully Black, check out her website at www.jullyblack.ca and follow her on Twitter @JullyBlack and on Instagram @MissJullyBlackTo learn more about Vinessa Antoine find her on Instagram: @therealvinessaantoine Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Steve and Diana chat with none other than legendary musician and children's performer Fred Penner! Fred discusses his long and illustrious music career, which started helping troubled teens early on in his life and how two big mortality checks in his life drove him to search for his bliss. Plus, he explains how he's survived the critics thanks to his wife's wise words, ‘It's none of your business.'Fred introduces us to Winnipeg singer-songwriter and musician JP Hoe! Steve was mesmerized by JP's ingenious video for his song, ‘Beautifully Crazy,' and JP explains the importance of the Winnipeg arts scene, his holiday album and how he met Fred Penner over olives and soft cheese.To learn more about Fred Penner, check out his website www.fredpenner.com or on Twitter @PennerFred and on Instagram @fpenner5To learn more about JP Hoe, check out his website at www.jphoe.com and check out the video for Beautifully Crazy at https://youtu.be/OjfqjQXG0aI or on Spotify at: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6EtgUAY8OttzTLTwfO2X9l?si=hoFXmHPdRB-KQehAHaQZJg. You can follow JP on Twitter @jphoe and Instagram @jphoeHOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Steve and Diana chat with musician, author, and community newspaper entrepreneur Dave Bidini! In what might be the most Canadian episode ever, they discuss bringing Stompin' Tom Connors out of retirement, singing O Canada with his band The Rheostatics at a hockey game the night before his wedding, apologizing to Gordon Lightfoot and of course - the importance of community newspapers. Dave introduces us to fellow acclaimed singer/songwriter Selina Martin! Selina discusses her journey from growing up on a farm in the Ottawa valley to living in the south of France. And continuing with the Canadian theme, Selina tells us about how she became known as ‘Campfire Geddy,' as well as her latest album ‘Caruso's Brain.' To learn more about Dave Bidini and The Rheostatics, check out www.rheostatics.ca and for the West End Phoenix, go to www.westendphoenix.com. You can follow Dave on Twitter at @hockeyesque and on Instagram @DaveBidini. ​​To learn more about Selina Martin, check out her website at www.selinamartin.com where you can buy her new album on Bandcamp. Follow her on Twitter @SelinaMartin and Instagram @selina.martin.1.HOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this week's episode, Steve and Diana talk to one of their dear comedy friends, standup, writer, producer and viral sensation, Darcy Michael! Darcy explains how he and his husband, Jer, became TikTok sensations with over 2 million followers after his dog went viral first. Darcy also shares some hilarious life hacks, getting back to touring and his own podcast, HIGH SCHOOL SUCKED.Which segues perfectly to the guest he shines a light on, fellow comedian, actor and his podcast co-host Jane Stanton! Jane talks about learning to skate for her recurring role on the new ‘Mighty Ducks: Game Changers' TV series, meeting Emelio Estevez, and both Jane and Darcy discuss how their late-in-life ADHD diagnoses changed their lives for the better.To learn more about Darcy Michael, check out his website www.darcymichael.com or on Twitter, @thedarcymichael Instagram @thedarcymichael , and of course, TikTok.To learn more about Jane Stanton, check out her website at https://thejanestanton.com/ or on Instagram at @thejanestantonHOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Steve and Diana chat with none other than one of Canada's most eclectic and charming musicians, Hawksley Workman! Hawksley talks about his 2020 album, ‘Less Rage More Tears,' why he loves the smaller arts scene in Peterborough where he now lives and why we should incorporate more comedians into rock shows.Hawksley shines the spotlight on his new Peterborough friend and Monday morning walk buddy, Jeremiah Brown! Jeremiah tells his incredible story of going from sitting on his parent's couch watching the Olympics to winning an Olympic medal for rowing in just four years and how that changed his life. Plus, he spills the beans on the incredibly unique way he met Hawksley by selling a microphone on Craigslist.To learn more about Hawksley Workman, check out his website https://hawksleyworkman.com/ or on Twitter @HawksleyWorkman and Instagram @HawksleyWorkman To learn more about Jeremiah Brown, check out his website at: www.the4yearolympian.com or on Twitter @jeremiahfbrown and Instagram @the4yearolympianHOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Steve and Diana chat with one of Canada's hardest working rock bands, The Sheepdogs! Band members Ryan Gullen and Ewan Currie talk about their new album, ‘No Simple Thing,' as well as the support they've gotten from their hometown of Saskatoon, and what it was like landing on the cover of Rolling Stone magazine. Ryan and Ewan introduce us to one of Canada's best drummers - Dani Nash. Dani talks about coming out from behind the drum kit to record her first self-titled album and its new wave sound, what it's like to trust your drummer when you're also a drummer and why small venues are so important to the health of live music. To learn more about The Sheepdogs, check out their website or www.thesheepdogs.com on Twitter @thesheepdogs and Instagram @thesheepdogs.To learn more about Dani Nash, check out her website at: www.daninash.com and you can find her on Instagram @daninashmusic.HOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week Steve and Diana chat with Canadian Screen Award winning actor Lorne Cardinal! Lorne explains how playing rugby has helped make him a team player both in front of and behind the camera, how it felt getting a theatre named after him, and his post Corner Gas career on the CBS drama FBI: Most Wanted. Lorne introduces us to Christine Robinson, the Executive Director of The Canadian Animal Assistance Team. Christine tells us about the mandate of their volunteer-driven program which provides accessible spay/neuter programs to remote and underserved communities and how Covid has adversely affected the program. Plus, if you listen carefully you can hear the interruption of several animals in the background of her personal animal sanctuary.To learn more about Lorne Cardinal, his website is: https://lornecardinal.com/ and you can find him on Twitter @lornecardinal and Instagram @lornecardinal.To learn more about Christine Robinson and The Canadian Animal Assistance Team, check out the company website www.caat-canada.org or on Twitter @Caat_Canada and Instagram @Caat_Canada HOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Steve and Diana chat with none other than Canadian singer/songwriter/podcaster/author/activist/host/TV star/national gem Jann Arden! Jann discusses the upcoming third season of her hit CTV series JANN and the origins of her hit song ‘Insensitive,' as well as the work she's done to stop the inhuman export of live horses via air cargo to Japan.Jann shines the spotlight on fellow singer/songwriter Rose Cousins! They reveal how they became each other's Covid buddies using virtual walkie-talkies, the origins of her new Juno-award winning album BRAVADO, and Steve admits which of Rose's songs puts him on the floor every time. To learn more about Jann Arden, be sure to check out here website at www.jannarden.com. You can also learn more about how to stop the export of live horses by going to www.horseshit.ca. To follow Jann on the socials, check her out on Twitter @jannarden and Instagram @jannarden.To learn more about Rose Cousins, her website is www.rosecousins.com and you can follow her on Twitter @rosecousins and Instagram @rosecousins. HOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

*A NOTE ABOUT THIS EPISODE FROM DR. SHELLEY BOYD:First, it is important to note that information provided today is not meant to substitute for an eye exam with your healthcare provider, and no giving or receiving of personal health information is implied. And also, Dr Boyd wishes to clarify that in compliance with COVID guidelines, her St Michael's Hospital research program in AMD remains closed – ensuring that her patients are safe and not exposed to unnecessary risk – while her Oshawa practice remains open for urgent and essential care. Like the rest of us, she is looking forward to returning to a new norm in the months ahead, and to seeing many of you again.SHOW NOTES:This week Steve and Diana chat with Canadian comedy legend Ron James! Ron regales us with stories from the road, explains why his love of touring Canada fills his heart more than chasing fame in America ever could, and the excellent career advice he got from none other than Billy Connolly. Ron introduces us to his friend… scientist, ophthalmologist and entrepreneur Dr. Shelley Boyd. Dr. Boyd is the founding director of Canada's only dedicated ‘Dry' Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) clinic at St. Michael's Hospital. Dr. Boyd explains why Canadians are at the forefront of this field, how blindness has the highest effect on the healthcare system and why quitting smoking is good for your eyes.To learn more about Ron James, check out his website at www.RonJames.ca or follow him on Twitter @TheRonJamesShow or on Instagram @ramblinronjames. You can learn more about his new book, ‘All Over The Map - Rambles and Ruminations from the Canadian Road' here: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/209922/all-over-the-map-by-ron-james/9780385671132To learn more about Dr. Shelley Boyd, you can read about her work at St. Michael's Hospital here: http://stmichaelshospitalresearch.ca/researchers/shelley-boyd/For more information on issues related to vision loss, check out: https://cnib.ca or https://www.fightingblindness.ca/HOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Diana and Steve chat with a brand new Canadian citizen, who is also a motivational speaker, author and the CEO/founder of Peace by Chocolate… Tareq Hadhad! Tareq tells the story of how his family's home and chocolate factory in Damascus was destroyed during the Syrian war, forcing them to live in a refugee camp for years before being welcomed into the small Nova Scotian community of Antigonish where they rebuilt their chocolate business, ‘Peace by Chocolate.'Tareq introduces us to another new Canadian, Syrian artist Houssam Alloum. Houssam spent over 400 hours drawing a portrait of Tareq's father holding a chocolate bar with the word ‘peace' in Arabic. Houssam explains his style of ‘hyper realistic' art, why he chooses to show his life experiences through his artwork and how art can bring awareness to important causes like eradicating gun violence against children.To learn more about Tareq and his new book, ‘PEACE BY CHOCOLATE BOOK: THE HADHAD FAMILY'S REMARKABLE JOURNEY FROM SYRIA TO CANADA,' check out his website at www.tareqhadhad.com.And if you'd like to order their delicious chocolate online, be sure to go to www.peacebychocolate.ca. You can also follow both Tareq and Peace by Chocolate on the socials here: @TareqHadhad @Peacebychoco on Twitter and @TareqHadhad and ​​@PeaceByChocolate on Instagram To learn more about Houssam Alloum and his work, be sure to check out his website: https://www.houssamalloum.com and follow him on Instagram @houssamalloum. HOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Steve and Diana chat with the original ‘Survivorman,' Les Stroud! Les reveals how his love of nature was inspired by Jacques Cousteau and Tarzan, which bugs are the most delicious, how foraging in nature led to his new culinary TV series ‘Wild Harvest' and his return to his first love… music.Les introduces us to singer-songwriter Angie Nussey, who has not only recorded with Les, but nature also inspired her love of music. Angie tells us why she thinks Mozart ripped off birds, and why she has been releasing a new song every month with an explanation of its origins for her new album, ‘I Have No Idea What I'm Doing.'To learn more about Les Stroud, his new TV series ‘Wild Harvest' and his music, check out lesstroud.ca and follow him on the Twitter at @reallesstroudTo hear Angie Nussey's music, check out her website angienussey.com and follow her on Instagram @angienusseyHOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Steve and Diana talk to correspondent and producer for ‘Full Frontal with Samantha Bee,' Allana Harkin! Allana talks about her love of her hometown, Hamilton, producing Full Frontal while on a boat during the pandemic, and why Canada needs its own late-night talk show.Allana shines the spotlight on Indigenous fashion designer and model, Lesley Hampton, who not only dressed Allana for The Emmys but has been endorsed by the musician Lizzo! Lesley explains how she started her first fashion line before finishing design school at George Brown, why ‘slow fashion' is so important, and why her company is working to shift how the fashion industry can affect mental health issues. To learn more about Allana Harkin, follow her on Twitter and Instagram @allanaharkin. Check out Full Frontal with Samantha Bee here: https://www.tbs.com/shows/full-frontal-with-samantha-beeAnd to learn more about Indigenous fashion designer Lesley Hampton, check out her website: https://lesleyhampton.com/Photo credit: Billie Chiasson (for Lesley Hampton's promotional photo)HOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Steve and Diana chat with Diana's favourite Canadian musician (Sorry Jim Cuddy, but you haven't yet returned her calls), Dan Mangan. Dan explains how the pandemic forced his company Side Door Access (www.sidedooraccess.com) to pivot from being the Airbnb of venues to an online platform for artists to connect with virtual audiences. He talks about his goal of 100,000 artists making $100,000 a year, as well as his cover tunes album called ‘Thief' and why he's passionate about helping other white Canadians educate themselves on Indigenous issues.Dan introduces us to the Vancouver based powerhouse musician and composer and his neighbour - Veda Hille. Veda shares how she first collaborated with Dan on the song ‘The Indie Queens are Waiting' - thanks to owing his sister money and she discusses her new autobiographical show, ‘Little Volcano' - which combines her own songs with the music of Bach. To learn more about Dan Mangan and Side Door Access, check out the websites www.sidedooraccess.com and www.danmanganmusic.comYou can also follow Dan on Twitter and Instagram @danmanganmusicAnd to learn more about Veda Hille and her new show Little Volcano, go to www.vedahille.com. To hear Nicholas Krgovich's album of Veda Hille cover songs, check out: https://nicholaskrgovich.bandcamp.com/album/this-spring-songs-by-veda-hille-2You can also follow Veda on Twitter @vedahille and on Instagram @loveyoulikealionHOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Steve & Diana chat with Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi, who was awarded the ‘World Mayor Prize' in 2014. Mayor Nenshi talks about how he got talked into politics by trying to talk other people into politics. He also tells us why his political colour is purple, and how his post Mayoral life will include ‘Seva' - selfless acts of service - and finally watching Game of Thrones.Mayor Nenshi introduces us to Calgary actor, podcaster, producer and filmmaker, Griffin Cork. Griffin is part of a new generation of young people who are changing the way we think about theatre and film in Western Canada. Griffin is embarking on the second season of his web series called, ‘Abracadavers' and spills the beans about hosting a daily podcast with his equally talented and artistic mother, Karen Johnson-Diamond.To learn more about Mayor Nenshi you can go to the City of Calgary's website https://www.calgary.ca/citycouncil/mayor.html or follow him on Twitter and Instagram @nenshiAnd to learn more about Griffin Cork, you can visit his website at http://www.griffincork.com, listen to his podcast ‘The Breakfast Dish' https://thebreakfastdish.buzzsprout.com/ or follow him on on Twitter and Insa @griffincorkHOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Steve and Diana chat with Emmy award-winning actor Annie Murphy! Annie admits how nervous she was on the first day of shooting Schitt's Creek, how her mother boldly asked Fred Penner to be in her short film, and how tapping into her dark side was smashingly therapeutic on her new AMC series, ‘Kevin Can F*ck Himself.'Annie introduces us to her best friend and incredibly talented Shakespearean actor, Antoine Yared. Antoine spills the tea on his long-term friendship with Annie and talks about what it was like to learn how to speak English at 16 and then be the first Lebanese actor to play Romeo at the Stratford Festival only a few years later.To learn more about Annie Murphy you can follow her on the socials at: @annefrances and to learn more about Antoine Yared, follow him on Insta @Ant1.yaHOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Steve and Diana chat with Canadian improv legend and nicest human alive, Colin Mochrie, who regales them with the tale of his worst gig ever, and how he knows that Peter Mansbridge packs a strong punch. Colin shares the spotlight with his incredibly talented wife, Deb McGrath, who explains how she met the Queen of England, and why she chose to step back from her career to raise Kinley Mochrie - who just happens to be our third guest! That's right! It's a three episode treat! Kinley is a rising acting star and trans activist who may or may not be responsible for the drum kit in Colin's office. To learn more about Colin Mochrie you can check him out at www.colinmochrie.com or follow him on the socials at:Twitter & Facebook @ColinMochrieInsta: @colinmochrie7591And to learn more about Deb McGrath, follow her on Insta @debmcgrathics.And to learn more about Kinley Mochrie, you can find her on Twitter and Insta @kinleymochrieHOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Steve and Diana chat with Canadian sketch comedy royalty, Bruce McCulloch of Kids in the Hall. Bruce talks about what it's like to be back together again for the Amazon reboot of Kids in the Hall, how writing for SNL created his lifelong commitment to KITH and why he develops new sketch talent with groups like TallBoyz and the featured guests he introduces us to, Folk Lordz.Todd Houseman & Ben Gorodetsky started as an improv duo called Folk Lordz in Edmonton and quickly pivoted to creating digital sketches that reflect their urban-Indigenous and Russian-Jewish-Canadian roots. Their absurd and darkly satirical 18-part sketch series caught the eye of Bruce McCulloch and we're thrilled he introduced them to us and the world!To learn more about Bruce McCulloch follow him on the socials at:Twitter @BrucioMcCullochAnd to learn more about Folk Lordz, check out their website at: www.folklordz.comTo watch the sketch ‘Statues' references in the interview, click on this! The Statue: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGBDjT__sJoTwitter: @folklordz Instagram: @folklordzHOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Steve and Diana chat with none other than Olympic legend, Silken Laumann. Not only did Silken overcome a near career-ending injury to go on to win an Olympic medal, but her memoir ‘Unsinkable' has helped demystify issues around mental health and spawned her new non-profit, ‘We Are Unsinkable.'Find out the story behind her incredibly unique name, how opening up about her own mental health issues has inspired others and how she stacks up against Diana when it comes to speed-typing.Silken shares the spotlight with 15-year-old youth activist Arissa Roy, who is not only an ambassador for ‘We Are Unsinkable,' but she has started ‘Project Power Global' which fights for access for education to alleviate poverty.To learn more about Silken Laumann and the work of 'We Are Unsinkable' check out:www.WeAreUnsinkable.comTwitter @Unsinkable Instagram @unsinkablestoriesAnd to learn more about the work Arissa Roy is doing, check out:https://www.projectpowerglobal.orgTwitter: @itsarissaroy Instagram: @arissa_royHOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Steve and Diana chat with one of their favourite Canadian Sarahs - none other than Juno and Canadian Screen Award-winning singer-songwriter, Sarah Slean! Fresh off having a new baby, getting nominated for a Juno AND her first Canadian Screen Award (spoiler alert - she won!) Sarah talks about how she found out about her latest Juno nomination while in her housecoat scrubbing her kitchen floor, why she is running to become a leader at SOCAN, plus she inadvertently gives a lot of plugs for Side Door Access. Sarah rolls out the red carpet for Iranian-Canadian actor turned political hopeful Ali Momen who has put his successful acting career on hold in order to run for the Ontario Liberal nomination in Parkdale-High Park. Coincidentally, where Steve lives! Ali shares his experience being an immigrant to Canada and having his first McChicken, why providing affordable childcare is so important to the economy and why we need to have an artistic vision in today's politics. To learn more about what Sarah Slean is up to, go to www.sarahslean.comTwitter @sarahsleanInstagram @sarahsleanAnd to learn more about Ali Momen, check him out here: www.alimomen.caTwitter: @alimomenInstagram: @alimomenHOST: Steve Patterson (Twitter: @patterballs)PRODUCER & CO-HOST: Diana Frances (Twitter @dianafrancesvan)TECHNICAL PRODUCER: Donovan Deschner from Fracture A Femur Productions (www.fractureafemur.com)MUSIC BY: Imagine Sound Studios (www.imaginesoundstudios.com) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Our inaugural episode features Canadian comedy legend and Order of Canada member Rick Mercer. Rick shares stories about making television in Canada, meeting President Obama, and how it was so easy to get content for Talking To Americans, that he and his producers got to see a LOT of afternoon baseball games. Plus, a surprise tidbit about Jack Layton's bedroom!Rick shines the spotlight on fellow stand-up comedian Sophie Buddle, the first woman to win a Juno for Best Comedy Album. Find out how Sophie was destined to become a comedian when she started stand-up at the tender age of 15 (and was almost immediately the funniest one on amateur nights), why we should all thank our mothers for our sense of humour, and excellent advice for anyone thinking of getting into comedy. To learn more about what Rick Mercer is up to, go to www.rickmercer.com Twitter @rickmercer Instagram @itsrickmercerAnd to learn more about Sophie Buddle, check her out here: www.sophiebuddle.comTwitter: @sophiebuddleInstagram: @sophbudsFind the show notes for this episode here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Canada doesn't really have a 'star system' like our neighbours to the south. In fact, many of our celebrities have had to leave the country to find the work and recognition they deserve. Well, THE CANADIAN STAR SYSTEM aims to change that. Each week, host Steve Patterson (CBC Radio's The Debaters) and his producer/co-host Diana Frances (Canadian Screen Award-winning comedy writer) interview a well-known Canadian celebrity who then shines the spotlight on someone THEY think should also be a star. That person joins the conversation and we learn why they are worthy of being a household name... in households other than their own.Season One guests include: Order of Canada member Rick Mercer (who shines a light on Juno award-winning comedian Sophie Buddle), Olympic legend Silken Laumann (who shares the spotlight with teen activist Arissa Roy), Emmy award-winning actress Annie Murphy (who rolls out the red carpet for actor Antoine Yared) and singer-songwriter Dan Mangan (who shares the love with fellow musician Veda Hille), plus many, many more! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.