The Stories That Brought You Here

Bruce Alexander is a psychologist and professor emeritus at Simon Fraser University. He actively taught at SFU from 1970 to 2005. In this interview, he will speak about many of the pivotal experiences he had during that time. One of which, occurred during the 70s, while he was volunteering at a methadone clinic in Vancouver's downtown eastside. There, he would engage in conversations with heroin users, and learn more about why they chose to use the drug. These talks would help set him on a path to conducting an experiment that questioned the standard beliefs of the day about drug addiction - The Rat Park Experiment. Bruce will share many interesting stories from his life, and give some fascinating insights about his lifetime search for the truth about addiction. All that, and much more. ___________________________________________________________________________ If you are interested in learning more about recording an audio memoir, for yourself, or for a loved one, please click on this, or go to myaudiomemoir.com to find out more. ____________________________________________________________________________ To stay up-to-date with new episodes, here are some of the ways you can subscribe... Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here 

Gregory Franklin has travelled the world photographing bears up-close in the wild. From pandas to grizzlies to polar bears, he has had many unique experiences while taking photographs of these amazing animals. He will explain his process and philosophy that allows him to be in incredibly close proximity with not only bears, but also mountain gorillas in East Africa. He will also speak about how after a tragic circumstance occurred in his life, he felt moved to do something he had never done before. That was to carve a 26-foot tall healing pole on his property. This act of personal healing, had a profound impact on him, but more so, in the lives of many others who have since visited the site it stands on. What would follow for Gregory, was an epic ten-year project–the building of his home, Franklin Castle. Based on 15th and 16th century architecture, and made of limestone, he built this house, brick by brick, almost purely on his own. It is now, not just a place for him to enjoy, but also for the community of Pender Island. Gregory will go into great detail explaining how the building of this amazing structure unfolded over the years, his work with sculpture, and share something special he enjoys doing for others during the Christmas holidays. All that, and so much more. ___________________________________________________________________________ If you are interested in learning more about recording an audio memoir, for yourself, or for a loved one, please click on this, or go to myaudiomemoir.com to find out more. ____________________________________________________________________________ To stay up-to-date with new episodes, here are some of the ways you can subscribe... Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here     

Marc grew up on a dairy farm in South Central Ontario. After finishing high school, he decided to join the Canadian military. For nine years, he had a variety of unique experiences while in the army. This included a transfer from Ontario to British Columbia. It was while living in Comox, he felt a shift within himself and that a change was needed. He decided to leave the military and return to school. In the years that followed, he would earn a degree in psychology. To support himself while in university, he worked as a radio DJ, as well, as a crisis counsellor. He will share some behind the scenes details about working at a small town radio station. Speak about his recent trip to Europe while on tour with Sarah Smith, and describe some of the important creative pursuits in his life. All that and much more. ___________________________________________________________________________ If you are interested in learning more about recording an audio memoir, you can email me by clicking this. ____________________________________________________________________________ To stay up-to-date with new episodes, here are some of the ways you can subscribe... Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here 

In this episode, Paul Williamson will reflect on the many careers he has had in his life. From a logger, newspaper reporter, teacher, lawyer and ultimately a Supreme Court Judge of British Columbia. He will discuss the reasons, and actions he took at various stages in his life, that made him choose between certain paths. Chronicling some of the diverse experiences he had along the way. We also go in depth into learning about his journey to becoming a lawyer. He will explain some key elements of how the legal system works, and describe some of the meaningful cases in which he was a part of, including, The Nisga'a Treaty. ___________________________________________________________________________ If you are interested in learning more about recording an audio memoir, you can email me by clicking this. ____________________________________________________________________________ To stay up-to-date with new episodes, here are some of the ways you can subscribe... Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here 

Sarah Smith is a singer/songwriter, who has been performing almost all of her life. She will describe how she first got inspired to sing as a child in church. The musical journey she embarked on eventually led to a decade of playing with the proto-Punk band, The Joys. A busy and creative solo career would follow, which has included multiple album releases, regularly touring through Germany and so much more. Sarah will share many fascinating stories about all aspects of her life, including personal challenges she faced along the way. Then, how she came out the other side, through surrender and service. To find out more about Sarah, her music, and more...please visit her website: www.sarahsmithmusic.com Photo credit to Kevin Vyse ____________________________________________________________________________ If you are interested in learning more about recording an audio memoir, you can email me by clicking this. ____________________________________________________________________________ To stay up-to-date with new episodes, here are some of the ways you can subscribe... Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here   

Misha will share stories about his time working, and living, in various parts of Africa while in his twenties. From there, we enter into a dynamic conversation on the subjects of beauty, art, depression, Hawaii, romantic love...and so much more. Please enjoy this wide-ranging, and surprising interview, with a very thoughtful and amazing person. ___________________________________________________________________________ If you are interested in learning more about recording an audio memoir, you can email me by clicking this. ____________________________________________________________________________ To stay up-to-date with new episodes, here are some of the ways you can subscribe... Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here 

This past August long weekend, the 2024 Mosaic Festival took place in the pine forest behind the Community Hall. An annual community arts and culture festival produced by Ptarmigan Arts, Mosaic Fest celebrates the diversity of the land we live on and the beings who inhabit it. It features music, workshops, and nature-based programming. The festival had a big upgrade this year with a change of venues, to a beautiful property, which was generously offered by Karl Hamson. It was three amazing days of music and art. On the last night, I decided to take my handheld audio recorder and have some fun. I selected random people from the audience, and asked them to pick a number between 1 and 5. Based on what number they chose, they got a pre-written list of three questions to answer- a silly one, a surface one, and a deep one. The results were fascinating and delightful. Thank you to all the lovely people who agreed to participate...I hope you enjoyed playing along with me, as much as I enjoyed recording it with you. ____________________________________________________________________________ If you are interested in learning more about recording an audio memoir, you can email me by clicking this. ____________________________________________________________________________ To stay up-to-date with new episodes, here are some of the ways you can subscribe... Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here 

Carolyn made her way to the West Coast, from England, in the mid-eighties. At that time, she was beginning what would turn out to be a 35-year career in nursing. The journey would lead her to become the first community nurse on Mayne Island, and then, after moving to Pender Island, continuing that role here. She will speak about her experiences in that time, as well, discuss her many years working in palliative care, a portion of her work, that was deeply important to her. Carolyn will also speak about growing up in England, learning to sail with her father there, and all the many things she is up to, in retirement. ____________________________________________________________________________ If you are interested in learning more about recording an audio memoir, you can email me by clicking this. ____________________________________________________________________________ To stay up-to-date with new episodes, here are some of the ways you can subscribe... Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here 

This series is dedicated to learning about the unique and important history of South Pender Pioneer families and their connection to S,DÁYES (South Pender Island) and the surrounding Salish Sea. Shelley will speak about the Henshaw family history on South Pender Island and trace the family story back to her grandmother, Mabel Baker, who survived the wreck of the RMS Lusitania in 1915. The Pender family connection, would begin with her uncle, Len, then her father, and a few of the other brothers would soon follow. Shelley explains that a group purchase of farmland in the Spalding valley by the Henshaw brothers would occur not long after. She would wind up spending many of her childhood summers on the island, and now, years later, has retired on South Pender. This interview has been made possible with funding from: the Capital Regional District, the Pender Island Community Resource Centre, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council/W̱SÁNEĆ School Board, the Pender Islands Museum, and the South Pender Historical Society.

This series is dedicated to learning about the unique and important history of South Pender Pioneer families and their connection to S,DÁYES (South Pender Island) and the surrounding Salish Sea. Debbie Friesen, the daughter of William Walker, will tell the story of how her grandfather and his brother, bought property on South Pender and built a cabin over a hundred years ago. She will share stories about her experiences as a child visiting the island with her parents, and explain how her time on the island, help to foster a special connection to Pender. That, and so much more. This interview has been made possible with funding from: the Capital Regional District, the Pender Island Community Resource Centre, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council/W̱SÁNEĆ School Board, the Pender Islands Museum, and the South Pender Historical Society.  

This series is dedicated to learning about the unique and important history of South Pender Pioneer families and their connection to S,DÁYES (South Pender Island) and the surrounding Salish Sea. Janet, the daughter of Hope and Geoff Jennens, will speak about her family's time living on South Pender. She and her sister, Josephine, had the unique experience of being raised on the island during the 40s and 50s. Janet will share stories about her family's farming activities, the various work her father did, the education she received, and so much more. This interview has been made possible with funding from: the Capital Regional District, the Pender Island Community Resource Centre, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council/W̱SÁNEĆ School Board, the Pender Islands Museum, and the South Pender Historical Society.

This series is dedicated to learning about the unique and important history of South Pender Pioneer families and their connection to S,DÁYES (South Pender Island) and the surrounding Salish Sea. In the 1970s, Frank came to live on South Pender Island with his uncle, Bill Wilson, who had recently married, Sybil Conery. He spent his formative teen years living with his uncle and Sybil, and she would go on to play a very important role in his life. Upon her death in 2014, Frank took it upon himself to learn the full history of the Conery family. From his extensive family research, Frank will provide an incredible array of stories about the Conery's time on South Pender Island, and will detail how the family's connection to the Gulf Islands stretches all the way back to the 1890s. This interview has been made possible with funding from: the Capital Regional District, the Pender Island Community Resource Centre, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council/W̱SÁNEĆ School Board, the Pender Islands Museum, and the South Pender Historical Society.

This series is dedicated to learning about the unique and important history of South Pender Pioneer families and their connection to S,DÁYES (South Pender Island) and the surrounding Salish Sea. Lynne, the first grandchild of Dora and Arthur Crane, will speak about her family's experience living on South Pender in the 1920s and 30s. Based on stories from her mother Barbara's memoirs, one of Dora and Arthur's four children, Lynne will describe the personalities and values of her grandparents, detail the adventures the family engaged in while on the island, and so much more. This interview has been made possible with funding from: the Capital Regional District, the Pender Island Community Resource Centre, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council/W̱SÁNEĆ School Board, the Pender Islands Museum, and the South Pender Historical Society.

This series is dedicated to learning about the unique and important history of South Pender Pioneer families and their connection to S,DÁYES (South Pender Island) and the surrounding Salish Sea. Kelly and Ruth, siblings and decedents of the original South Pender settler family, will speak about their family connection to Pender. They will both share stories about summer visits to Pender when they were children, and reminisce about some of their extended family members they spent time with while growing up. Kelly will also read a poem, written in the 1880's, by their great-grandfather, Arthur Spalding, titled - 'The Hermit'. That, and so much more This interview has been made possible with funding from: the Capital Regional District, the Pender Island Community Resource Centre, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council/W̱SÁNEĆ School Board, the Pender Islands Museum, and the South Pender Historical Society.

This series is dedicated to learning about the unique and important history of South Pender Pioneer families and their connection to S,DÁYES (South Pender Island) and the surrounding Salish Sea. Barb and John, two descendants of the original Pender settler family, will speak in depth of their family connection to Pender. Barb will open with a chronological description of the family history on Pender. They will both share stories of visits to South Pender when they were children during the 50s and 60s. They will provide insight as to what life was like for their grandparents, Lilias and Arthur Spalding. They will talk about why Pender Island was so special to them as children, and why it was important for both of them to make Pender Island their home. That, and so much more. This interview has been made possible with funding from: the Capital Regional District, the Pender Island Community Resource Centre, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council/W̱SÁNEĆ School Board, the Pender Islands Museum, and the South Pender Historical Society.

This series is dedicated to learning about the unique and rich history of the W̱SÁNEĆ Saltwater People and their traditional connection to their Salish Sea Homeland including S,DÁYES (South Pender Island). PENÁĆ, is a teacher of SENĆOŦEN language at the ȽÁU, WELṈEW̱ Tribal School. He will describe how speaking the SENĆOŦEN language and immersion in it, has positively impacted him, and his students. He will also speak about his involvement in art, and how the influences and styles, vary quite differently among First Nations. That, and so much more This interview has been made possible with funding from: the Capital Regional District, the Pender Island Community Resource Centre, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council/W̱SÁNEĆ School Board, the Pender Islands Museum, and the South Pender Historical Society.

This series is dedicated to learning about the unique and rich history of the W̱SÁNEĆ Saltwater People and their traditional connection to their Salish Sea Homeland including S,DÁYES (South Pender Island). Robert Clifford, is a member of the Tsawout First Nation and an Assistant Professor at the Peter A. Allard School of Law at UBC. He will speak about some of his PhD research which explores the ways WSÁNEĆ laws are generated by and reflect the values, philosophies, lands, and worldviews of the WSÁNEĆ people. He will explain how the complexity of trying to fit aboriginal law into Canadian law, has layers of challenging issues, and will examine some of those issues. As well, he will speak about what it means to take in traditional WSÁNEĆ stories and have a living relationship with them, in order to make them part of you. That, and so much more. This interview has been made possible with funding from: the Capital Regional District, the Pender Island Community Resource Centre, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council/W̱SÁNEĆ School Board, the Pender Islands Museum, and the South Pender Historical Society.

This series is dedicated to learning about the unique and rich history of the W̱SÁNEĆ Saltwater People and their traditional connection to their Salish Sea Homeland including S,DÁYES (South Pender Island). Mavis Underwood, a W̱SÁNEĆ elder, had been working to promote betterment in opportunities for First Nations, and to influence needed social change in the areas of education, human and social development, health, and housing. She will speak about her lifetime of work in these areas, share lessons learned from her mother and father while growing up, and read a poem she wrote just after the birth of her first daughter. That, and so much more. This interview has been made possible with funding from: the Capital Regional District, the Pender Island Community Resource Centre, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council/W̱SÁNEĆ School Board, the Pender Islands Museum, and the South Pender Historical Society.

This series is dedicated to learning about the unique and rich history of the W̱SÁNEĆ Saltwater People and their traditional connection to their Salish Sea Homeland including S,DÁYES (South Pender Island). Eric Pelkey, the Hereditary Chief of Tsawout of the W̱SÁNEĆ Nation, will speak about his family's reef net fishery, which existed near Bedwell Harbour on S,DÁYES. He will provide some ancient stories and history of S,DÁYES and explain why that land is deeply important to the W̱SÁNEĆ people. As well, he will share stories as told to him by family members who witnessed a sea monster, that is believed to have once lived in the Pender Canal. That, and so much more.  This interview has been made possible with funding from: the Capital Regional District, the Pender Island Community Resource Centre, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council/W̱SÁNEĆ School Board, the Pender Islands Museum, and the South Pender Historical Society.

This series is dedicated to learning about the unique and rich history of the W̱SÁNEĆ Saltwater People and their traditional connection to their Salish Sea Homeland including S,DÁYES (South Pender Island). Earl Claxton Jr., a W̱SÁNEĆ elder, will speak about how he became involved in the ȽÁU, WELṈEW̱ Tribal School's plant nursery and garden. He will share some of his vast knowledge on native plants. As well, explain the technique for reef net fishing, an ancient and sustainable salmon harvesting method used by the W̱SÁNEĆ people. That, and so much more. This interview has been made possible with funding from: the Capital Regional District, the Pender Island Community Resource Centre, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council/W̱SÁNEĆ School Board, the Pender Islands Museum, and the South Pender Historical Society.

This series is dedicated to learning about the unique and rich history of the W̱SÁNEĆ Saltwater People and their traditional connection to their Salish Sea Homeland including S,DÁYES (South Pender Island). J,SIṈTEN, a W̱SÁNEĆ elder, shares stories about his decades of time spent working at the ȽÁU, WELṈEW̱ Tribal School and the important work he has done, along with many others, to help preserve the SENĆOŦEN language. He will speak about the deep importance to the W̱SÁNEĆ people, to the land and the natural environment. That, and so much more. This interview has been made possible with funding from: the Capital Regional District, the Pender Island Community Resource Centre, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council/W̱SÁNEĆ School Board, the Pender Islands Museum, and the South Pender Historical Society.

This series is dedicated to learning about the unique and rich history of the W̱SÁNEĆ Saltwater People and their traditional connection to their Salish Sea Homeland including S,DÁYES (South Pender Island). ȻOSINIYE, a W̱SÁNEĆ elder, will speak about the SENĆOŦEN language, and how her father, the late Dave Elliott Sr., created an alphabet to help preserve the language. She will share ancient stories, including one about the creation of the Gulf Islands. As well, speak about challenges faced by herself, her family and her ancestors, due to colonization. That, and so much more. This interview has been made possible with funding from: the Capital Regional District, the Pender Island Community Resource Centre, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council/W̱SÁNEĆ School Board, the Pender Islands Museum, and the South Pender Historical Society.

This series is dedicated to learning about the unique and rich history of the W̱SÁNEĆ Saltwater People and their traditional connection to their Salish Sea Homeland including S,DÁYES (South Pender Island). SELILIYE, a W̱SÁNEĆ elder, shares stories about her time as a young girl spent on S,DÁYES, harvesting clams and watching members of her community participating in traditional practices. She will also talk about her involvement and the importance of preserving their traditional SENĆOŦEN language, connections to the Lummi Nation, and some of the challenging situations she faced while attending day school as a child. That, and so much more. This interview has been made possible with funding from: the Capital Regional District, the Pender Island Community Resource Centre, the W̱SÁNEĆ Leadership Council/W̱SÁNEĆ School Board, the Pender Islands Museum, and the South Pender Historical Society.

Everest's passion for building began when she was five with the construction of a multi-level tree fort on Pender Island. Years later, she would build her own cabin on Savary Island. She has since had a fascinating career as a designer and sculptor of form with function for over two decades. In this interview, we will take a deep dive into her architectural philosophy, the method and process of how she designs. Everest will also share stories about competing in downhill mountain biking, creating musical furniture, attending Emily Carr University, how she got her name, and so much more. ______________________________________________________________________ To stay up-to-date with new episodes, here are some of the ways you can subscribe... Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here 

Luke moved to Vancouver Island from England at the age of nine. Having a deep interest in art at that young age, he would find encouragement from teachers along the way. As the years went on, he found inspiration for his art through Victoria's punk scene, hitching across Canada and international travel. An illustrator, designer, muralist and painter, he co-founded the Island Folds residency with his wife, Ange and became the City of Victoria's first artist in residence in 2016. In this wide-ranging interview, we explore these subjects along with the power of humour, hustling, developing trust, self-confidence, learning through travel, pranks and much more. _________________________________________________________________________ To see some of Luke's work we talked about, and more, please visit: lukeramseystudio.com/ ________________________________________________________________________ To stay up-to-date with new episodes, here are some of the different ways you can listen and subscribe... Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here   

Chanda was born in Peace River, Alberta and spent much of her childhood outdoors connecting with nature and animals. In adulthood, she found work as a fire lookout observer in northern Alberta. It was there, while living in quiet isolation, Chanda began to focus on music. Her confidence and talents would begin to flourish, and she soon went on to record her first album. Chanda shares stories from these years, describes how she met her husband, Dan, and discusses the eleven-year journey of infertility they had been on. She will speak about the struggles involved, lessons learned, and how she feels now that they are pregnant.  _______________________________________________________________________ To enjoy some of the songs and videos we discussed in this episode, please click the links below: Deer and Coyote - Fly (Offical music video) Deer and Coyote - Seeing Stars (Offical music video) _____________________________________________________________________ To find out more about creating your own personal oral history recording, you can e-mail me at - myaudiomemior[at]outlook.com ______________________________________________________________________ To stay up-to-date with new episodes, here are some of the ways you can subscribe... Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here     

Gregory was born in Birmingham, England during the Second World War. While still quite young, the death of his mother, would create a set of circumstances for him that ultimately led to a very challenging childhood. When he entered his late-teens he joined The Royal Air Force and began a career in the military for the next decade. By his thirties, a desire for something more in life lead Gregory to move to Canada. The choice to invest some of his spare time taking courses at university would then shift his life in a direction he never would have predicted. Gregory will speak about these experiences as well as what it was like being a farmer in Ireland, being a teacher and why donkeys are such great animals. _____________________________________________________________________ To find out more about creating your own personal oral history recording, you can e-mail me at - myaudiomemior[at]outlook.com ______________________________________________________________________ To stay up-to-date with new episodes... Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here   

Judith grew up in post-war America in the state of Virginia. While in her twenties, she would have many interesting work experiences, which included teaching children with disabilities and pregnancy counselling. In her thirties, on a visit to Costa Rica to see her father, she became inspired to move there. She lived there for five formative years and eventually met her future partner, Brent. Judith will share stories from those times, the importance of creating art, finding her place, and so much more...enjoy. _____________________________________________________________________ To find out more about creating your own personal oral history recording, you can e-mail me at - myaudiomemior[at]outlook.com ______________________________________________________________________ To stay up-to-date with new episodes... Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here   

While growing up in Alberta, Curtis had his first job experience at his Mom's health food store. As he entered his teens, he would begin working in the restaurant industry, and years of amazing experiences would follow. By his mid-twenties, he decided to shift gears and began selling commercial real estate in Vancouver. This career path took on various forms for nearly two decades, until he sought a change in his life and moved to Pender Island. Curtis will share stories from those years and explain how, and why, he created, Woods On Pender. _____________________________________________________________________ To find out more about creating your own personal oral history recording, you can e-mail me at - myaudiomemior[at]outlook.com ______________________________________________________________________ Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here 

In 2009, Sherry Anne has a chance meeting at a music festival with a man named, Mathew. They fell in love, moved to Pender, got married and had a child together. While living on the island, they became deeply involved in the music scene and would eventually open a restaurant, which provided a unique space for touring and local musicians to perform. Sherry Anne will share stories from these times, as well, speak very openly about the challenges she faced as a new mother and how she ultimately came out the other side of that experience, in a way she never expected. All this and more, in an incredibly honest and inspiring interview with a wonderful person. Enjoy.   To find out about Sunday Common Table Fellowship gatherings at the Community Hall, email - commontablependerisland{at}gmail.com _____________________________________________________________________ To find out more about creating your own personal oral history recording, you can e-mail me at - myaudiomemior[at]outlook.com ______________________________________________________________________ Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here 

While Deb was growing up in Gibsons, BC, she spent a significant amount of time exploring the outdoors. This helped her form a deep connection with the natural world, and later, would serve as an influence for her to study geography and resource management in university. A fascinating journey followed including, unique work environments, travel, teaching, exploring creative ways to manage forests and much more. Deb will speak about these experiences, as well, responsibility to place, finding common ground, how to get closer to living sustainably and the importance of collaboration. ______________________________________________________________________ To find out more about creating your own personal oral history recording, you can e-mail me at - myaudiomemior[at]outlook.com ______________________________________________________________________ For ways to follow along and find out about new episodes... Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here 

In the late-sixties, Jon moved from his birthplace of Montreal to Calgary. It was there he began working in the airline industry and would become his career for more than three decades. The job led to many profound experiences for him, including meeting his partner of over forty years, John Cowan. Their life together on Pender Island has allowed them to slow down, and discover great benefits from it. As well, Jon will speak candidly about his experience of being a gay man in Canada during the previous decades. He will describe some of the challenges he faced during that time and how things have dramatically changed for the better in his community. All this and so much more, in a very open and honest interview with a wonderful guy. Enjoy.   Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere Twitter - https://twitter.com/StoriesBrought YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here   

While living in Ontario in his late-teens, Mike played guitar in a music duo. He and his musical partner were successful enough to both earn a living from it for six years. In his twenties, he shifted gears and opened a restaurant with his wife, Kelly. After a number of years, they sought change and in the late nineties, moved to the West Coast. Circumstances and chance would lead Mike to his next career, that of a wine barrel salesman. The job required him to be away for extended periods of time, but also allowed him to pursue his new passion, being a volunteer for the Pender Island Fire Department. Mike will speak in depth about these experiences, the passion he has for serving our community, his thoughts on leadership and so much more. Please enjoy this episode with our local Fire Chief, the wonderful, Mike Dine.   Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere Twitter - https://twitter.com/StoriesBrought YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here 

While growing up in Montreal, Annette spent a lot of time at the local swimming pool. It led to her discovering the sport of water polo, which would become a very important part of her life. She will speak about those years in the water, her love of singing, stories from the service industry, English literature and how she is now starting a new career as a real estate agent. All that and much more, in a delightful interview with lots of laughter.   Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere Twitter - https://twitter.com/StoriesBrought YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here 

Having grown up in various locations throughout British Columbia, Jim was witness to some fascinating provincial history in his youth. While in his teens, he landed a summer job working at the Vancouver Stock Exchange, this would lead him to a lifelong career in the investment business. Jim will speak about some of the life experiences he had along the way, the lengthy history the MacDonald family has with Pender Island and how his relatives immigrated to Canada centuries ago. That and so much more. Enjoy!   Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere Twitter - https://twitter.com/StoriesBrought YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here  Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/64GCX2abpl8GfJ1AzjPQiB

Laurie will share stories from the cross-Canada cycling trip they and a friend went on and describe how the experience changed their life. They will also talk about the construction business they started and how the encouragement they received from their boss at the time, helped to make it happen. As well, Laurie will talk about supporting others through music promotion, and how misconceptions about them and members of their friend group created significant challenges in the past. That and so much more, with an absolutely fantastic person. Enjoy!   Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere Twitter - https://twitter.com/StoriesBrought YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here

After growing up in a suburb of Montreal with eight siblings, Mary Anne found herself in Berkeley, California as a young adult in the late sixties. She even made it to Woodstock! She will explain how those experiences shaped her, why she transitioned into becoming a subsistence farmer for six and a half years, and how she began a thirty-five-year career working with children in a therapeutic role. Mary Anne will also describe how her passion for the environment recently inspired her to create films, as a way to raise awareness and create change. All that and much more. Please enjoy.   Here is a link to Mary Anne's film -To Do List For The Climate Crisis - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=joKi3CPe_IY To subscribe and follow future episodes of the podcast... Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere Twitter - https://twitter.com/StoriesBrought YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here

This time around I interview the wonderful, Madelin Emery. We talk about the journey she has been on while building her house, her passion for pottery and how she became involved with a truth and reconciliation circle on Pender Island. Madelin will also speak very openly about the challenges she faced due to the unexpected suicide of her partner and her path to healing. She will honour their memory by sharing stories about his life. That and much more, in a very candid and honest interview.   To purchase a 2023 calendar made by Geneva Jacobs, please click this. Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere Twitter - https://twitter.com/StoriesBrought YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here

Welcome to the fifth episode of this special series titled - Welcome Home. This is a chance to meet some of the new residents to Pender Island, hear why they chose to live here, how they are participating in the community and what the experience of living here has been like so far. Next up in the series is, Johnny Cunningham. During the spring of 2020, Johnny was living, and working in Victoria as a cook at a prestigious golf club. He had also started a new relationship with a woman living on Pender. Johnny will describe how life events unfolded for him and allowed him to move here. He will also speak about his passion for cooking, why he has a love of photography and the lessons he has learned from his time in nature, waiting to take that perfect picture.   All that and much more...enjoy!   To purchase a 2023 calendar made by Geneva Jacobs, please click this. To keep updated with new episodes, you can join the Facebook group-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere Also on Twitter - https://twitter.com/StoriesBrought And on YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here

I speak to Kathryn about her experiences as the Artist in Residence for the city of Victoria, between 2019 and 2021. She will describe some of the projects she developed during that time and reflect on her enjoyment of participating in community art. Kathryn will also speak about how she began playing music at a young age, which led to the formation of the three-piece band, Immaculate Machine. She will share stories from those early touring years and how her life dramatically changed when she was asked to join, The New Pornographers during the mid-2000's as they were rising in popularity.   To purchase a 2023 calendar made by Geneva Jacobs, please click this. Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere Twitter - https://twitter.com/StoriesBrought YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here    

Robert's story begins forty-nine years ago with the purchase of a summer home on South Pender Island. It then weaves through community development in James Bay, drinking kava in the Vanuatu islands, a week with an elephant, sacred dance journeys, magical happenings in Scotland and closes with the transformation of the Pender Island Health Centre. I found myself deeply inspired by the stories and experiences Robert shared in this interview, I hope you will too. I would describe this episode as...elegant like tango and splendorous like new minted gold.   To purchase a 2023 calendar made by Geneva Jacobs, please click this. Facebook-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere Twitter - https://twitter.com/StoriesBrought YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here      

Welcome to the fourth episode of this special series called - Welcome Home. This is a chance to meet some of the new residents to Pender Island, hear why they chose to live here, how they are participating in the community and what the experience of living here has been like so far. Next up in the series is David Leadbeater. Having been born and raised in Calgary, the idea of living in the Gulf Islands always seemed like a dream to him. Soon after retiring from his career with an excavating company in the Lower Mainland, he and his wife Deanna, made that dream happen. In this interview, David will describe how he moved to the Fraser Valley in the mid-seventies and met his future wife at a Halloween party. The two stayed in that area for decades raising their two sons. Now all four of them have pooled their resources and are co-owners of the property on Pender. As well, David will speak about and the pleasure he receives from kayaking in the ocean and tell the incredible story of the first home, he and Deanna lived in after they were married, a reconstructed CPR train station. All that and more in a great interview with a great guy. Enjoy! To keep updated with new episodes, you can subscribe through Podbean... ...or join the Facebook group-https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere Also on Twitter - https://twitter.com/StoriesBrought And on YouTube - YouTube - The Stories That Brought You Here

Welcome to the third instalment of this special series called - Welcome Home. This is a chance to meet some of the new residents to the island, hear why they chose to live on Pender, how they are participating in the community and how the experience of living here is going. Next up in the series, is the fantastic Stefani Williams. While this is actually her second time as a resident of the island, it was the first one that had a deep impact on her life. She opened Slow Coast Coffee in her early-twenties and it was there, she would meet her future husband, Chris. Early on in their relationship, they moved away off the island, and soon became pregnant with twin boys. Stef will describe how her young family's life unfolded during those many years away and what made them ultimately return to Pender in 2021. As well, Stef will speak about the benefits of living in a multi-generational housing situation, how she created her own clothing business, why she was passionate about homeschooling her children, and her joy of frequenting farm stands. All that and more, in a great little interview. Enjoy!

As the world has changed over the past few years, so has our island. Many people have decided to make a big move in their lives and relocate to our little paradise. This series is a chance to meet some of our new residents, get to know them a bit better, find out why they chose Pender, how they would like to participate in the community and ultimately, welcome them to their new home. The series continues with Jorgen Jespersen. In the early spring of 2021, Jorgen, his wife, Lee-Ann and their two daughters made the move from Edmonton to Pender. In the years leading up to this, their family had made numerous trips to the island to visit their close friends. Those experiences inspired them to make a big change in their lives and move to the West Coast. Jorgen will describe how this all unfolded, as well, speak about his sixteen year career as a youth worker in Edmonton and how he and his wife got joined a running club on the island.  He will also explain how he got involved with the ambulance service on the island and share stories about growing up on a dairy farm in Barrhead, Alberta. All that and much more in a delightful little interview, with a great guy.   To keep updated with new episodes, subscribe through Podbean. Or...Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/thestoriesthatbroughtyouhere Twitter - @StoriesBrought  

As the world has changed over the past few years, so has our island. Many people have decided to make a big move in their lives and relocate to our little paradise. This series is a chance to meet some of our new residents, get to know them a bit better, find out why they chose Pender, how they would like to participate in the community and ultimately, welcome them to their new home. This series begins with Alexandra Harrison. In 2021, she and her partner, Joe, had been living in Brentwood Bay on the Saanich Peninsula. That spring, they decided that they would begin to look for a house to purchase. Through a combination of the impactful experiences she had in her youth at her grandfather's home on Galiano Island and Joe's deep involvement in disc golf, Pender seemed like a dream if they could make it happen.  Alexandra will explain how things unfolded for them along the way, describe the fascinating story of how she started her own business as a proposal writing consultant, how that work allows her to work from home and the positive experiences she has had living here. All that and more, in great little interview with a fantastic person. Enjoy.    

This time around, I speak with the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Saanich North and the Gulf Islands, Adam Olsen. Having grown up on the Saanich Peninsula as a member of Tsartlip First Nation (W̱JOȽEȽP), Adam will speak at length about many of the unique experiences he and his family had during those early years. This will include the story of how his parents developed a business involving Cowichan sweaters. Adam will also describe the lessons he learned from a previous job as a server at Butchart Gardens and his pursuit of becoming a hockey play-by-play announcer. He will give thanks to the person who first encouraged him to become involved in local politics. He will also speak about the commonality of substance abuse in our society and how important it is to acknowledge the damaging effects of stigmatization.  All this and much more, in a very wide ranging interview with a very interesting person from our community. Enjoy.

When Paul was a young boy, he spent his summers visiting his grandparents at their home on the Sunshine coast. The memories from that time have influenced him greatly. So much so, that he was inspired to build a home on Pender Island similar to the one his grandparents had. Paul tells a short story about the importance of being able to provide similar experiences for his grandchildren today.

Joanna met her friend, Barbara Ann, at the age of three while living on Pender Island. They reconnected years later while attending the same high school in West Vancouver. This led to a lifetime of friendship between the two. Joanna describes some of the many shared experiences they had. Some of those as young mothers, each raising families of four children and spending summers together on Mayne Island.

Richard tells the story of helping to preserve the Saturna Island community hall, which was build in 1933. He also shares some details about other original community halls in the Southern Gulf Islands, their historical significance, acoustic qualities and why we should care about keeping them standing.

Carol began her experience of living on Galiano Island at the age of two. After moving off the island at age twelve, she eventually returned in 2001 to care for her ailing mother during the last six years of her life. Carol will speak about her memories of those years and what it meant to her to have returned home to Galiano.

In 2005, Shelley and her husband, Steve, purchased property on Pender and started building a house. By the following year, they had moved in and began living on the island.  We start the interview with Shelley (who was also a new Mom at the time) reflecting back on those years and detailing some of the experiences she had as a new resident. From there, Shelley speaks about how she developed a passion for food, which led to her creating her catering business - Shel's Kitchen. She will also talk about what it was like growing up the youngest of six girls, the profound impact her Mom had on her life, and how hosting karaoke nights while living on Vancouver Island, turned into her writing and performing her own music. All that and more in a fantastic little interview with a fantastic person. Enjoy.