Host Peter McCully chats with Andrea Silver, a pharmacist and member of the board of the College of Pharmacists about the groundbreaking initiatives taken by British Columbia to provide free access to contraceptives, with more than 60 types being made available.

The first segment of the podcast focuses on Silver's insights into the free contraceptive program, discussing its reception, implementation and the notable increase in individuals benefiting from free contraceptives. The statistics reveal that almost 300,000 people have availed themselves of these services since the program's initiation, showcasing a significant positive response.

Silver emphasizes the program's impact on contraceptive choices.

The discussion extends to the broader societal implications, linking unintended pregnancies to health and economic challenges, making the case for providing families with the best possible start.

In the second segment, McCully talks with Black Press Media journalist Lauren Collins who had the opportunity to interview Health Minister Adrian Dix about the program and benefits.

“There are longer-term benefits, and this will take longer to assess. It’s impact, for example, on unwanted pregnancies and other issues, that will take longer to assess, obviously, than the period that it's been in place so far. But it's our belief, and certainly the belief of those that study this issue that there will be other benefits beyond that,” said Dix. “Across the board, I think it's been launched successfully, it's worked for women, it's saved money and it's better health care. I think that it's going to be followed in other jurisdictions as well”.

Dix emphasizes the financial relief for younger women, offering a unique perspective on the intersection of healthcare and financial considerations.

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Host Peter McCully chats with Caitlin Vanderhaeghe of Vancouver, the president, CEO, and co-founder of KidStar Nutrients.

Vanderhaeghe discusses her experience on ‘Dragons’ Den’, where she secured a partnership with Arlene Dickinson and Wes Hall.

Vanderhaeghe shares her journey into the health and wellness industry, the conversation dives into the inspiration behind starting KidStar Nutrients, focusing on the importance of quality products for children's health and the significance of iron deficiency, and how Caitlin's personal experience inspired the creation of a unique iron supplement.

“I was really dissatisfied with what I found on the market,” said Vanderhaege. “And then my second daughter ended up being iron deficient. And so I went on a hunt to find her a product and in the process I realized that I had to just make one. We actually made the iron products for her specifically. Iron is the number one nutrient deficiency in the world, and also here in Canada, and it's very much lacking from our diet today."

The KidStar founder reflects on the challenges of launching a business during the pandemic and the subsequent shipping issues.

"We launched in January of 2020, unknowing of what was coming. So, it was a huge hurdle to be honest."

The podcast delves into Vanderhaeghe’s entrepreneurial spirit, shaped by her childhood experiences of selling flowers and having a paper route.

Vanderhaeghe reflects on her experience on the TV show, the nerve-racking moments on stage, and the subsequent positive impact on Kidstar Nutrients' business.

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Host Peter McCully chats with Perry Bulwer of Port Alberni on Vancouver Island.

Bulwer has written a book entitled Misguided: My Jesus Freak Life in a Doomsday Cult, taking the podcast listener on a journey through his tumultuous experience with the Children of God cult.

Starting with his initial encounter at a Chinese restaurant in Port Alberni, Perry recounts the allure that drew him into the depths of the cult.

"They saw something in me, something receptive,” said Bulwer. "The dogma and the teachings I learned in the Catholic Church weren't that much different from what they were preaching and they were taking advantage of that."

Bulwer explains the origins of the cult, tracing its roots back to California in 1968 and the charismatic leader David Berg, the cult's radical preaching, its migration to Canada, and the controversies surrounding its practices add layers to the story.

The podcast reflects on the emotional toll of living in a cult, as the author describes the internal conflicts and doubts that eventually led him to leave.

Upon returning to Canada, he faced the daunting task of rebuilding his life, marked by educational pursuits and personal rediscovery. The episode captures the resilience required for post-cult recovery, offering a glimpse into Perry's transformative journey.

Bulwer has been an advocate for cult survivors since 2004.

“There's a lot of psychological damage to that generation who were born in the group,” he said. “Once I turned my mind to it and understood what had happened to them, I had to speak up. I started doing that in 2004 and basically have continued to this day to be an advocate in that sense.”

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Host Peter McCully chats with Ken McGoogan, author of Searching for Franklin. McGoogan shares insights into his exploration of the Franklin Expedition, discussing the challenges of writing history and the significance of on-site research.

The podcast explores the psychological and physical hardships faced by Franklin and his crew during their Arctic expeditions, emphasizing the harsh conditions, confinement on ships, and the challenges of wintering in the ice.

Lady Jane Franklin's pivotal role in the story was explained.

“She was still heavily involved in sending out expeditions, but she also mythologized Franklin,” said McGoogan. “He had already been acclaimed as the man who ate his boots, but now he became the discoverer of the Northwest Passage, which was not true.”

McGoogan reflects on surprising discoveries during his research, notably proposing a theory related to trichinosis from eating infected polar bear meat as a possible cause of the expedition's tragic end.

“Take those barrels that I'm saying they used to transport me. Maybe there's still some traces of meat in those barrels that could be tested, that would then corroborate my theory,” he said.

Barney Bentall, a frequent Arctic traveller, provides a unique perspective on Franklin's legacy and the profound experiences one encounters in the desolate beauty of the Arctic.

“It's pretty powerful when I get to Beachy Island, and I have had the good fortune of going there probably six times,” said Bentall. “This is a place where it is extremely difficult to get to. I've had the good fortune to be there, and it's a very moving place. It really hits you, just the desolation and the beauty of the place, but my God, how hard it would be to survive there.”

McGoogan also draws contemporary lessons from Franklin's story, emphasizing the balance between determination and hubris, and the importance of listening to local knowledge.

The author is returning to the arctic in 2024 on an Adventure Canada Tour. The company is currently sponsoring a contest to win a $5,000 travel credit.

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Host Peter McCully chats with two remarkable authors, Haley Healey whose book Her Courage Rises was nominated for a B.C. and Yukon Book Award and Jess Housty, whose book of poetry found its way to the top of the B.C. best sellers list.

In the first segment, McCully asks about Healey's book, designed to introduce young readers to a group of trailblazing women from B.C. and the Yukon.

Healey explains that her inspiration for writing this book came after a five-day hike near Tofino, where she toured Cougar Annie’s Garden and was fascinated by the story of the pioneer homesteader.

This curiosity led her to uncover publish 50 stories of women, many not been featured in history books. Haley hopes young readers will be inspired to pursue their dreams and learn about these incredible women who defied societal norms.

“Many have led unconventional lives and done remarkable things,” said Healey. “I hope young readers and all readers are inspired to follow their own dreams and live the life they want, even if it's unconventional.”

Healey is a self-proclaimed trailblazing woman, who has taught in remote communities, guided canoe expeditions and balanced motherhood with adventure.

In the second segment of the ‘Made in B.C. Book Club, the podcast transitions to Housty, who discusses her book of poems, Crushed Wild Mint.

Housty lives in Bella Bella and her deep love for the land and her cultural heritage are evident in her poetry. She describes how her father's quiet poetry and her upbringing surrounded by the beauty of the land influenced her writing.

Housty’s involvement in community-driven non-profit work, particularly in food security and herbalism, highlights the importance of food security, especially in remote communities. She also touches on the resurgence of efforts to preserve and pass down oral histories and cultural traditions.

The podcast episode includes Housty sharing a poem inspired by her younger child, who believes that the wind originates in the bellies of wolves when they howl. This poem, titled ‘Breath’, reflects Jess's love for her children and her connection to her culture and territory.

If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

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Host Peter McCully talks with Lucy and Stewart MacNeil about the Barra MacNeils Christmas concert tour that began in Whitehorse and ended on Cape Breton Island. 

Lucy and Stewart discuss the impact of their music on audiences, especially during the Christmas season. They highlight the role of family in their performances, emphasizing the unique sound that comes from singing together as a family.

The siblings reminisce about their roots in Sydney Mines, Cape Breton, and how the name ‘Barra MacNeils’ originated from the small Scottish island of Barra, known for its rich Gaelic singing tradition.

"Barra is an island off the coast of Scotland, a small little wee island," said Stewart MacNeil. “That's where the association is. That's where it started at Kisimul Castle. Although it's a very small island, there's a huge tradition, especially of Gaelic singing."

Stewart MacNeil recalling a unique encounter at Eastside Mario's in Sydney, where a Chinese women's basketball team unexpectedly joined in singing 'Auld Lang Syne', demonstrating the universal power of music.

The siblings share anecdotes about recording Christmas albums in May, creating a festive atmosphere with a turkey dinner during the recording process, and the significance of certain songs like ‘Miner's First Noel’.

Bruce Guthro, a dear friend, neighbour and songwriter, is fondly remembered, as is his song ‘Bound for Bethlehem’. Stewart MacNeil recounts Bruce becoming a legend in Europe with the band Runrig.

The podcast touches on the MacNeil families enduring connection t, and the impact of their performances on the community, especially during the holiday season. The siblings express their gratitude for the continued support of their fans and the evolving traditions within their own families.

The podcast includes a wide selection of seasonal music: 'Carol of the Bells,' 'Christmas in Carrick,' 'Miner's First Noel,' 'Bound for Bethlehem,' 'God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen,' 'I Saw Three Ships,' 'Christmas in Killarney,' and 'Auld Lang Syne.'

If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

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  On this Edition of Today in BC, the Union of British Columbia Municipalities explores the pressing issue of wildfires in British Columbia and their profound health impacts.

Three speakers delve into the physical and mental health consequences of wildfires, emphasizing the challenges faced by communities, healthcare workers and vulnerable populations.

Adrian Dix, Minister of Health, sheds light on the complexities of evacuating vulnerable individuals from long-term care facilities amidst the crisis. He emphasizes the significant strain placed on the healthcare system and healthcare workers.

“Can you imagine continuing to work and caring for people away from your home, travelling with them while your own home is in jeopardy?” said Dix. “It is an extraordinary thing for our healthcare community to have done that and achieve that, I think, requires from me and from everyone in the province, gratitude and appreciation.”

Armel Castellan, a warning preparedness meteorologist, provides a perspective on the unprecedented heatwaves and droughts that exacerbated the wildfire situation. He highlights the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events due to climate change, which contribute to prolonged wildfire seasons and hazardous smoke conditions.

Dr. Angela Yao, a senior scientist in environmental health services, discusses the long-term health impacts of wildfire smoke exposure. She presents research findings linking smoke exposure to respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems and even cognitive function. Yao emphasizes the need for proactive measures, such as improving indoor air quality and creating personal action plans to mitigate the health risks associated with wildfires.

If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

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On this podcast episode of ‘Today in BC’, host Peter McCully sits down with Chelsea Watt, a contestant on the iconic game show, ‘Jeopardy!’

Watt shares her journey from being a lifelong fan of the show to becoming a contestant, discussing the rigorous audition process, the thrill of being on the show, the unexpected challenges she faced and the excitement of being in the contestant pool.

"One of my goals, if there was a Canadian question, was I wanted to get it correct and not embarrass all of Canada,” said Watt. “There was a question where the answer was Celine Dion, and I did buzz in first, and I did get it correct, so I was happy with that.”

Listeners get a behind-the-scenes look at what it's like to be a contestant on the beloved quiz show, from the quick turnaround between episodes to the importance of keeping game outcomes a secret until they air.

“People were so excited for me, and they were so excited to watch it. I was just like, ‘you guys are going to be wildly disappointed with how this turns out,’” said Watt. “You always feel a bit bad that it maybe didn't turn out the way that they hoped. I managed to keep the secret.”

Watt discusses her strengths and weaknesses in different subjects or the pressure of living up to the ‘Jeopardy! girl’ reputation at pub trivia nights.

She also shares some of her favorite ‘Jeopardy!’ contestants and moments from the show's recent history, offering insight into what makes the program so enduring.

McCully asked Watt about host Ken Jennings.

"He’s so funny, really kind, super quick-witted. It's very clear when you're playing or watching other people play that Ken knows most of the answers,” said Watt.

If you have suggestions or comments, send a voice message to podcast@blackpress.ca you may be part of our audio podcast mailbag segment.

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