Powered by Age Podcast
By PBAAFC Ambassadors
Powered by Age PodcastMay 05, 2022
S4 E13 - Transitioning Into July
Our 113th Zoomcast (June 30, 2022);
Guest hosted by Jesse Wentzloff.
Today’s host, CJSF Public Affairs Coordinator Jesse Wentzloff, invites Nansey Sinclaire to introduce her daughter, Vancouver Island University fine arts student Christine Battye. We watch and discuss a video of the exhibition Art Action Arising, a compilation of works from the Qualicum Beach Art Battle, curated by Christine.Christine tells us about the art battle, the process of creating the exhibit, and her artistic style and creative process.
Neall Ryon reads his poem There’s Room Here and complements his reading with a You Tube video of O Canada sung in 11 different languages.
We close by discussing how we plan to celebrate Canada Day.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S4E12 - A Smooth Summer Solstice
Our 111th Zoomcast (June 23, 2022);
Our host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell announces the launch of her video poem Choose to Challenge.
Neall Ryon reads an article an extract from Letters from an American by Heather Cox Richardson about the chaotic history of Juneteenth. Read at heathercoxrichardson.substack.com
Lesley Hebert reads the poem Bed in Summer by RL Stevenson and we share our summer memories and talk about the impact of summer on our creativity.
Charlotte reads her poem Can you Imagine?
Neall shares his plan to create a book by travelling to various communities across the province and gathering creative writing from seniors. Anyone interested in taking part or sponsoring Neall’s project can contact him at ncr223@gmail.com
Listeners hear different versions of the song Summertime.
In closing, Charlotte reminds us that the nature or our podcast is to “speak up listen up act upon” – to share ideas and work for change – and encourages listeners to contact her at pbaafc@gmail.com to have their work recorded for the easy listening section of the PBA website.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S4E9 - Celebrating the Best of PBA, Volume 2
Our 108th Zoomcast (June 2, 2022);
Revisit more of the best moments of the Powered By Age Podcast, featuring some of our favourite guests: Shibani Gokhele, Doretta Lau, and Hassan Aj Konter
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S4E8 - Celebrating the Best of PBA, Volume 1
Our 108th Zoomcast (May 26, 2022);
Revisit some of the best moments of the Powered By Age Podcast, Featuring Zentangle and the 411 Seniors Centre Ukelele program!
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S4E7 - Xicanx
Our 107th Zoomcast (May 19, 2022);
Our host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell introduces Greta de Leon, Executive Director of the American Research Network and co-curator of the new feature exhibition Xicanex at the UBC Museum of Anthropology. Speaking to us from Morelos, Mexico, Greta discusses the importance of this diverse exhibition of Chicano art, poetry and stories by self-identified Chicano artists, and its relationship to migrant workers and indigenous people in B.C. She reads a poem from the exhibition, H is a Word my Tongue Cannot Speak by Anjelica Maria Aguilera, and answers our
questions about the show.
To find out more, go to xicanxart.com. Contact Greta at gretadeleon@arenet.org
Neall Ryon reads his poem The Poet
#CharlotteSistaCFerrell reads her poem I’m on Fiyahh
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S4E6 - Celebrating Asian Heritage
Our 106th Zoomcast (May 12, 2022);
Our host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell welcomes us with an overview for Asian Heritage month. We introduce ourselves with information about our backgrounds.
Yoshimi tells us about growing up among other Japanese immigrants eking out a living in Canada in the 40s. She reveals the transition that occurred when a student in a new school encouraged her to start using her real name instead of the “Mary” a teacher had given her. Prafulla shares her life’s journey from India to Canada with expansive tributes to the family matriarch. Lesley talks about her origins in the UK. Neall shares his knowledge of various cultures and languages.
Neall announces his plans to travel and do research for an upcoming publication, “The Wisdom of Seniors.” To contribute, send a short bio and one favorite poem that you have written to ncr223@gmail.com.
Neall reads 14th century Meng Hao-Ran’s 14th Century Chinese poem Spring Morning and its English translation, followed by Easter Parade, his response to Meng’s poem.
#CharlotteSistaCFerrell leads us in a Qi Gong minute and a virtual hug to embrace our varied identities.
Lesley reads four haiku inspired by a visit to a nature park in Japan.
Yoshimi shares her short story Tell Your Mother.
To listen to our SPINs (stories, poems, interviews and novelties) emerging from our podcasts, go to https://poweredbyage.com To hear any recordings of our podcasts aired through CJSF, go to https://cjsf.ca/contents/sistac
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S4E5 - Celebrating Mothers' Day
Our 105th Zoomcast (May 5, 2022);
Our host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell welcomes us to CJSF Radio listener appreciation week and announces we will be honoring Mothers Day with special a special presentation and poetry. Regarding Mother’s Day, STAR Elder and story keeper Kendra Crowell shares her perspective on Indigenous People’s world view of the earth as our “mother” and the sacred interconnected nature of life. She describes the powerful roles mothers and grandmothers especially hold among Indigenous people and encourages listeners to attend powwows as a way of gaining a greater understanding. She concludes with an invitation to attend the Trout Lake Pow Wow on Indigenous Day, June 21, 2002.
We discuss various Mother’s Day traditions and share a virtual hug with our listeners.
Neall Ryon reads two of his poems dedicated to his mother, An Ode to Mary and Ordinary Mary.
Dr. Ramona Srinivasen reads a tribute to her mother-in-law, Vasundhara (Athai), and the extensive gifts she passed on to their family.
Charlotte reads her acrostic poem Happy Mother’s Day Everyday dedicated to all the mothers involved in this podcast and our listeners.
Lesley Hebert reads her poem Magic, dedicated to Mother Earth.
We listen to the Lillooet Nation Women’s Warrior Song and Elder Kendra explains the lyrics: I am warrior woman, I am strong, the Goddess lives within.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
Are we Old Enough? Relationships and Sexual Intimacy
Our 104th Zoomcast (April 28, 2022);
Our host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell introduces #CherylGuidry, a nurse practitioner, relationship coach and founder of https://www.safedatingover50.com/. Cheryl discusses types of intimacy and answers numerous questions. She stresses the importance of feeling comfortable with our aging bodies and talking about intimacy. We discuss the benefits of touch; the impact of the Covid pandemic; and the importance of confirming and practicing safe sex. You can contact Cheryl through her website.
Ann Daskel invites listeners to a seniors’ photography show The Collective Agency Project at the Pendulum Gallery in the lobby of 885 Georgia St.
Our poetic offerings include Neall Ryon’s poem Intimacy, #CharlotteSistaCFerrell’s poem When My Man Kisses Me and Yoshimi’s poem Junkyard Dog.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S4 E3 - Poems of Intimacy 2
Our 103rd Zoomcast (April 21, 2022);
Our host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell announces our continued celebration of National Poetry Month and invites Lesley Hebert to read her poem Inner Child. In response, Neall Ryon reads Talk to the Child from his book From the Other Side.
Yoshimi reads her poem Blood Lines and tells us about the mentoring she received from the poet who inspired it.
Jeannie Kamins shares a poem she wrote to her husband on Valentine’s Day, the poem he wrote in response, and the ceramic memorabilia box she keeps them in. Neall Ryon responds with his
poem Intimacy.
Charlotte reads her poem Integrals of Life on intimacy with nature. We engage in free ranging discussions about intimacy with self and others and the concept of Intention Healing.
Charlotte highlights upcoming PBA sessions and encourages us to record a SPIN - story, poem, interview, or ‘novelty’- item for the PBA website. Contact her at pbaafc@gmail.com.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S4 E2 - Poems of Intimacy
Our 102nd Zoomcast (April 14, 2022);
Our host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell extends thanks and positive thoughts with her poem, Thank You for Being Wonderfully You, then invites us to continue our celebration of International Poetry Month #SpeakingOfIntimacy, by sharing poems with each other.
Dr. Ramona Srinivasen reads her haiku Two Graceful Seagulls. Jeannie Kamins recites Lewis Carroll’s Jabberwocky from memory. Prafulla Vyas reads Stacy Kozawi’s poem The Knitting Club from James Barry’s anthology Themes on the Journey. Lesley Hebert reads her nature-embracing poem Still Life with Tree. Neall Ryon reads his poems The Words I Love and Intimacy.
Joel Flynn discusses an idea about doing virtual karaoke sessions for seniors. He thoughts around music and intimacy included sentiments about his father’s song Fiddler’s Green, which you can hear at https://soundcloud.com/podstream/fiddlers-green-doug-flynn-sings-a-song-for-his-sister
We discuss the benefits of memorization and the connection between music, language and memory.
#CharlotteSistaCFerrell closes today’s podcast with her poem Rebirthing I Worthiness, and encourages everyone to write or share a poem next week. Listeners can email pbaafc@gmail.com to get an invitation.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S4 E1 - Aspects of Intimacy
Our 101st Zoomcast (April 7, 2022);
Our host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell announces that PBA will be celebrating National Poetry Month throughout April and expressing its theme “Speaking of Intimacy,“ and invites us to share images and thoughts about partner, personal, family, community and spiritual intimacy.
We discuss the importance of trust for emotional and physical intimacy.
Presenting a familiar type of intimacy, #CharlotteSistaCFerrell reads Love Time, Poem Time, for her book Heart Balm - Just For You.
Lesley Hebert reads her culinary oriented poem, Love Apples, and Neall Ryon reads his poems Intimacy and In the Stillness,
Dr. Ramona Srinivasan reads Dear Lover and Someone from Shilpa Sekha’s book Echoes of Silence.
#CharlotteSistaCFerrell plays her spoken word poem, Heart of my Heart - an appeal to a heart that has retreated from intimacy. Available on You Tube, Just for You, Jazzy Spoken Word.
We discuss poetry as an act of intimacy with ourselves and Lesley reads A Jug of Wine, A Loaf of Bread and Thou from the Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam. Neall closes with Rumi’s poem True
Love.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3 E50 - Celebrating our 100th Episode
Our 100th Zoomcast (March 30, 2022);
#PowereredByAge host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell welcomes us to today’s program celebrating its 100th episode as Canada’s longest running senior-led podcast.
Marion Pollack, 411 Sr. Centre’s Board Chair, commends the ways our podcast has helped increase seniors’ comfort with technology and otherwise build an age-friendly world for seniors; she thanks our
host, #CharlotteSistaCFerrell for her tireless work and advocacy.
Co-host Jesse Wentzloff, Public Affairs and Talk Coordinator for CJSF FM, congratulates us for our community building work, variety of creative expressions and for reaching our the 100th episode.
Chris Morrissey of QUIRKE thanks PBA for providing a voice for LGBTQ?+ Elders and welcoming their presentations throughout its 100 episodes. Four members of QUIRKE present special readings: Cynthia Cole reads her poem Card Art. Val Innes reads from QUIRKE’s publication Together We Stand. Ellen reads her poem You’ve Struck a Rock. Pat Hogan reads part of Blame it on the Wimmen, her autobiographical work about lesbian activism.
Joel Flynn, owner of Pod-Stream, the original recording site for PBA, describes ways we surmounted some space, time and organizing challenges during our early podcasts. He sings Van Morrison’s Into the Mystic.
Jane Belanger, ukulele instructor and Judy Hinds, craft instructor-volunteers at the 411 Sr. Center, present a video about their programmes and sing and play You are My Sunshine. New classes will be announced.
Poet, Neall Ryon presenter of the greatest number of poems during PBA, reads his poem I Am the Heart.
We end with a flow of greetings and accolades from podcast contributors and attendees, including Wilda Keir, Yoshimi Yokano, Dr. Ramona Srinivasan, Delsa Delgeit, Lesley Hebert, and Juliet Rebello.
You can obtain copies of Together We Stand; Queer Elders Speak Out, at the Public Library, or email spuds1536@aol.com. For e-versions of the QUIRKE’S recent zines, contact innes.val@gmail.com
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3 E49 - Healing Through Smell and Touch
Our 99th Zoomcast (March 24, 2022);
Our host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell welcomes us to our continuing celebration of International Women’s History Month and its theme #Breakthebias. Our featured presenters share how they broke dual biases against discontinuing traditional nursing to master extensive new skills and knowledge required for multi-discipline holistic health practitioners.
Rohanna Goodwin-Smith, author of the new book, Scent and Soul, reveals the boldness required to retire as a RN then delve into researching the essential functions of the sense of smell and becoming a registered aromatherapist. She shares a wealth of information on the essential roles our sense of smell plays in health or healing.
Yoshimi Yokano describes the biases and scorn she faced when she gave up her nursing career to become a therapeutic massage practitioner. She reads her poem Healing Work and stresses the importance of having family members understand and support what you love to do and getting in touch with our innate healing powers.
Neall Ryon reads I am Tomorrow, his poem about the impact our lifestyles have on our health.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3E48 - Breaking the Educational Bias
Our 98th Zoomcast (March 17, 2022);
Our host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell announces our third week of exploring the #InternationalWomensHistoryMonth theme #breakthebias. Today’s focus is on how our presenters have experienced bias as entrepreneurs; how they break biases, and what others might do.
Our first presenter, Diamond Toastmaster, Muriel Shabazz encourages us with a quote from Harriet Tubman ,“Every great dream begins with a dreamer.” She pivoted from owning one of
L.A.’s premier soul food restaurants and catering businesses to becoming a member of five Toastmaster programs and speaking across the US, Africa and Canada. She reminds us that we are never too old to change the world through strength, patience, and passion, emphasizing that “people are aching for something new so, at whatever age, we all have something to offer.”
Lisa Futrell introduced her mother, Dr. Rose Edgar, who has been a ground breaker for Black women throughout her life and is still going strong in her 80s.
Our second guest, educator and solopreneur Wilda Keir shares her philosophy of unlimited opportunity and tells us about multiple occasions when she created her own job to help children left behind by the educational system. She is passionate about identifying children not given an opportunity to learn a broad range of career possibilities because someone has presumed, they have limited capacities. Participants discuss a variety of biases we have overcome ranging from age to color, language, culture, and nationality.
Neall Ryon reads An Ode to Mary, a poem about his mother’s challenging life.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3E47 - Breaking The Entrepreneurial Bias
Our 97th Zoomcast (March 10, 2022);
As our celebration of International Women’s month continues, our host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell invites participants to introduce themselves by sharing entrepreneurial influences, memories or
activities.
Deborah Thorne, the Information DIVA, shares lessons she learned throughout her lengthy career as a serial entrepreneur increasingly learning how to #breakthebias or biases that entrepreneurial women face. She shared how she learned about collaboration and networking through home based cosmetic, jewelry and fashion businesses then expanded to currently hosting international multi-day virtual business conferences and coaching people over 50 into endeavors like book publishing. If you would like Deborah to connect you to people and opportunities, text DIVA to 21000; phone or text direct to 1-310-497-1640 or go to https://calendly.com/theinformationdiva/letsdocoffee.
Nansey Sinclaire, a member of our PBA production team, introduces her “Happiest Pup Pet Services” and tells us about biases she faced when working as her husband’s business partner. As a ‘solopreneur’ Nansey has connected her observations about the importance of good customer service to a project where she is writing a book for pet owners and delighting customers with adorable pet photos. Her experiences inspire discussion on overcoming bias through professionalism, situational-conflict resolution, positive self esteem and self-awareness. You
may contact Nansey through https://www.happiestpuppetservices.ca/
In support of the Ukraine, Neill Ryon reads his poem The Church with No Roof. Charlotte reminds us to record our poems, stories, interviews and ‘novelties’ for poweredbyage.com.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3E46 - Breaking the Bias
Our 96th Zoomcast (March 3, 2022);
Our host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell invites participants to introduce themselves with thoughts and quotes for International Women’s Month. She reads the short affirmative poem for #BreaktheBias.
The 411 Seniors Centre’s Services Coordinator Rosemary Collins shares inspirational quotes and presents some pertinent facts about ageism. She feels that assumptions about elders’ lack of intellectual capacity is worse for women because of the additional impact of sexism, and notes that seniors’ invisibility and lack of access to services and civic engagement is exacerbated by the digital divide. She encourages us to push back against ageism by grouping together to share coping strategies and advocate for the return of “live” human beings assisting seniors with government and other services.
In recognition of International Women’s Day, Neall Ryon reads his poem Who is She to You?
Rosemary Collins announces that the 411 tax clinic begins on March 7 runs to Apr 28. For an appointment phone a real human being at 604 684 8171.
#CharlotteSistaCFerrell invites us to get up and move to This Girl is on Fire by Alicia Keys.
Neall Ryon invites feedback on his new poem The Cat.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3E45 - 411 Seniors Centre Income Tax Clinic
S3 E45 - Our 95th Zoomcast (February 24, 2022);
Our host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell welcomes us to Canada’s longest running senior led podcast.
For this week’s “breaking news”, Maggie Taylor from 411 Senior Centre Income Tax Clinic talks about this free volunteer service. She answers questions and advises seniors to file by the April 30 deadline to ensure continuation of benefits such as SAFER and GIS. Gather all your information slips and phone 604 684 3171 to book an appointment. Listeners outside of Vancouver can get information about free income tax preparation for seniors in other places.
To celebrate Neall Ryon’s 82nd birthday, Dr. Ramona Srinivasen sings Nat King Cole’s’ You Will Never Grow Old and #CharlotteSistaCFerrell engages us in her call and response poem Neall is Always On.
Prompted by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Neill Ryon reads his poem Hard Time Done Come, followed by the more positive poems Forgiveness and Siddhartha by the River.
Our new podcaster Amandeep Randhawa leads us in a series of yoga exercises and stretches. She offers Zoom classes every day from 8-9 a.m. Pacific Time (11-12 am Toronto time). For more information contact Charlotte Ferrell at pbaafc@gmail.com.
#CharlotteSistaCFerrell invites listeners to email her at pbaafc@gmail.com for an invitation to to join our Women’s History Month presentations beginning March 3, as well as our 100th episode celebration at the end of March.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3E44 - Now (411 News) and Then (Black History)
Our 93rd Zoomcast (February 17, 2022);
We recognize Family Day with our stories about our “most memorable” family members.
Host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell introduces the presenters for our new definition of “Breaking News”: Beneficial, Reliable, Encouraging, Applicable, Kind, Interesting, Notable, Gems.
411 Senior Services Coordinator Rosemary Collins shares information about the Centre’s Information and Referral Service, outlines types of assistance offered by BC Housing, and discusses the SAFER subsidy and subsidized housing program. She announced that 411’s tax clinic will run March 7 to April 28 to assist seniors with current and past year returns and GST rebates. Next week we will hear more details on ‘getting organized’ for tax preparation. For assistance with government services, housing, or income tax, make an appointment by email contact411@411seniors.bc.ca or phone our human operator at 604 684 8171.
Hannah Shin confirms that STAR Institute will attend the Horizons Conference May 26-29 to share findings on seniors and the digital divide. She welcomes listeners to take part in the conference’s three days of workshops being held at SFU (Simon Fraser University) Downtown. Anyone interested can email Hannah at Hannah_shin@sfu.ca or phone her at 604 684-8171.
#CharlotteSistaCFerrell recognized Black History Month with inspirational quotes by Olympic gymnast Simone Biles; Actor Chadwick Boseman; and Poet, Langston Hughes about intelligence, beauty and belief. #NeallRyon reads his untitled poem about emancipation and the “virus of peace”. #LesleyHebert continues her poetry readings inspired by Black BC history from Wayde Compton’s 49th Parallel Psalm.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3E43 - 411 News and Black History Celebration
Our 93rd Zoomcast (February 10, 2022); 411 News and Black History Celebration;
Host, #CharlotteSistaCFerrell introduces our special guest presenters with our new ‘beneficial, positive’ “Breaking News” First, Rosemary Collins, 411 Centre’s Information and Referral Services Coordinator, discusses services offered by I & R (Information and Referral). Key issues such as homelessness and loss of the GIS benefit drive 411’s advocacy work. To contact I & R for assistance navigating the complexities of government benefits or to speak with Rosemary, phone 604-684-8171 or email contact411@411seniors.bc.ca .
Next, Hannah Shin an embedded researcher for SFUs Science and Technology for Aging Institute currently ‘placed’ at the 411 Centre, announces the Horizon Conference, which aims to strengthen links between academia and the community. It is taking place at SFU Downtown May 26-29, 2022. The 411 Centre and STAR will share knowledge about aging in a digital world.
Hannah emphasized that seniors with experience and opinions about resolving the digital divide are encouraged to participate in the Conference. She invited anyone interested to phone her at 604-689-8171 or email hannah.shin@sfu.ca. The conference fee will be paid for participants willing to take part in its workshops.
Continuing our celebration of Black History Month, Charlotte invites us to introduce ourselves with sound and movement. She engages us in her original “call and response” poem How Can you Run with the Horses when Running with the Horsemen Tires You Out? Lesley Hebert recognizes Black BC history by reading The Chief Factor and The Commodore from Wayde Compton’s 49th Parallel Psalm. Neall Ryon reads his poem Never Give Up and Charlotte closes with inspirational quotes from Booker T. Washington and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3E42 - Celebrating Black History
Our 92nd Zoomcast (Febuary 3, 2022);
Our host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell introduces Scott Riesterer, Seniors’ Programme Coordinator at Kitsilano Neighbourhood House, who talks about Kits House programs for seniors. Better At Home is a United Way program that helps seniors continue to live independently by providing subsidized light housekeeping, volunteer drivers and grocery shopping. To find a Better at Home service in your area phone 211 or go to https://betterathome.ca/map-search/. Other services for seniors include Heart to Home at https://www.hearttohomemeals.ca/, a non-profit service offering free delivery, and the for-profit meal delivery service Fresh Prep at https://www.freshprep.ca
Dr. Ramona Srinivasan sings Young at Heart, a pre-birthday song for Neall Ryon, and Neill reads his new poem Never Give Up.
#CharlotteSistaCFerrell begins our celebration of Black History Month with a history of BHM in Canada and some inspirational quotes. She invites us to participate in her call and response poem by Mary McLeod Bethune. Lesley Hebert reads JD from 49th Parallel Psalm, Wayde Compton’s poem about Governor James Douglas, who invited Black Americans to come to BC from California during the Thompson River gold rush.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3E41 - Remembering Gail Harwood
Our 91st Zoomcast (January 27, 2022);
Our host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell invites 411 Board member Monica Murguia to open today’s session with the Breaking News that the 411 Centre reopens on January 31. Activities include support services information and referral, free internet and phone access. Appointments are recommended. All activities will follow Covid-19 protocols. The centre is at 333 - 330 Terminal, close to Stadium station.
Our introduction “prompt” for today is ‘mountains’ and we introduce ourselves by sharing thoughts or memories about mountains. Supporting media promotion of the word, “Listen”, we discuss the importance of greeting people sincerely, making eye contact and waiting to hear people’s response to the greeting, “How are you?”
Charlotte highlights the enthusiastic way Gail Harwood participated in our podcasts as a “Peer Leader” from its 2019 launch until her recent passing. Neall Ryon remembers spiritual discussions he held with Gayle with his poems The Monk and The Shadow. We hear The Moment by Margaret Atwood submitted by CJSF Radio Coordinator Robin Eriksson. Charlotte reads two
tribute poems, Gail and Bring on the Peacemakers. Closing the tributes, Prafulla Vyas read her poem My Sunset in a Teacup. Gail’s persistence, faith and humor are anchored in our hearts.
Gail’s family members notified us they are delighted that Gail’s recordings are available on the SPINs (Stories, Poems, Interviews, and Novelties) section of the poweredbyage.com website. Listeners are encouraged to record SPINs on their phones or in special sessions with our production team. We are especially looking for people to record interviews of other seniors. To record a SPIN, submit ideas for future podcasts or to take part in them, contact Charlotte at pbaafc@gmail.com
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3 E40 - Celebrating National Hug Day
Our 90th Zoomcast (January 20, 2022);
To celebrate National Hug Day, founded by Kevin Zaborney in 1986, we introduce ourselves with a word that makes us feel happy and a story about a memorable hug.
We experiment with touching hands across our Zoom screens and discuss ways of giving virtual hugs.
Johnnie Proby, an international Sound Therapy Practitioner, leads a discussion of the relationship between the vibrations of the singing voice and the seven body chakras. Johnnie and
Dr. Ramona Srinivasen lead us in a series of yogic self-hugs.
Lesley Hebert tells a heart-warming story about a random act of kindness.
Charlotte reads her poem Just for You which was the inspiration for her book Heart Balm~Just
for You.
Jeannie Kammins, a 411 Sr. Center volunteer, and Board member expresses the “kindness power” of volunteers spending time advocating for equitable housing and internet access for seniors. We comment on ways volunteerism brings happiness to volunteers as well as those they serve and say goodbye by signing off with a happy thought.
Charlotte invites listeners to hug someone by interviewing them for the SPIN section of the PBA website. To submit ideas for future programmes or to take part in upcoming podcasts, contact
Charlotte at pbaafc@gmail.com or use the contact button at https://www.poweredbyage.com
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3 E39 - Kindness, Compassion, and Service
Our 89th Zoomcast (January 13, 2022);
Host Charlotte 'SistaC' Ferrell presents today’s theme of Kindness, Compassion and Service and how they connect to Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy as a leader.
Neall Ryon presents dramatic poems on the theme of kindness: Disorientation by Theoretical Physicist Dr. Katie Mack, followed by his own poems, Its Only a Dollar; The Courage to Fear; and Wholeness.
Lesley Hebert accentuates a sense of compassion with her poems Hope, Raccoon, and Inner Child.
Charlotte plays an excerpt from Dr. King’s life-assessing sermon, “The Drum Major Instinct,” delivered Feb 4, 1968, two months before his assassination. We reflect on the powerful outcome of his consistent service as a relentless leader in the Civil Rights movement. We discuss kindness as a way of being, springboard for action and a way to heal the trauma of separation. The power of loving oneself and having compassion for others was anchored by
listening to a recording of Luther Vandross singing The Impossible Dream.
To submit ideas for future programmes or to take part in upcoming podcasts, contact Charlotte at pbaafc@gmail.com or on our website, www.poweredbyage.com
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant;and G & F Financial.
S3E38 - Cold Days, Creativity and Future Plans
Our 88th Zoomcast (January 6, 2022);
Our host, Charlotte 'Sista C' Ferrell, announces that future podcast sessions will begin with breaking news about Covid Omicron restrictions and how the 411 Centre and other senior
centres are modifying or ceasing their programs. PBA will help more people learn to use remote communications and increase their comfort in presenting topics or their creative writing.
We introduce ourselves by sharing something that the recent heavy snowfall has made us realize. We discuss pills and supplements we use to nurture our immune systems and cautions about overdosing.
Joel Flynn invites suggestions for “Threefer” segments – three songs by one artist which form a cohesive narrative or focus on a particular theme. He shared the links to the edited version of last week’s Beatles medley.
Per the host’s prompt to write about the coldest day in our memory, Jeannie Kammins reads “January 1977”, a memory of a day out in Saskatoon at 40 below. Chris Morrissey reads “A drop of 70 Degrees” about her return to Prince George, B.C. at Christmas after teaching in a missionary school in tropical Brunei. Lesley Hebert reads her poem Twelfth Night.
Charlotte asks us to brainstorm words beginning with Br, Be and Ba which leads to “Brain”, “Belly” and “Back” being identified as topics for future episodes. Dr. Ramona sent a happiness calendar for use in our podcasts and email to homebound participants.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3E37 - Uplifting New Year’s Wishes
Our 86th Zoomcast (December 30, 2021);
We introduce ourselves by sharing good things we will take with us into the new year.
Joel Flynn introduces Chris Schultz from Horizon School of Music who talks about the school’s programmes for adults and at-risk youth. Inspired by the recently released Beatles documentary, Joel sings Let it Be, Here Comes the Sun, and Hey Jude.
Neall reads his joyful tribute to his brother, A White Ford Pickup with Texas Plates, Jeannie Kamins reads her poem One Kick at the Can, and Charlotte Ferrell reads her Kwanzaa poem
Stepping Through Kwanzaa.
We share our intentions for the New Year. Dr. Ramona Srinivasan shares her intention to follow the mantra 'Lokah samasta sukino bhavantu' (May all living beings everywhere be happy and free).
Our host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell invites listeners to hear all the issues we covered in 2021 by listening to podcast recordings on You Tube, Spotify, iTunes or our website, poweredbyage.com.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3 E36 - Holiday Cheer
(Our 86th Zoomcast December 23, 2021);
Our host #CharlotteSistaCFerrell welcomes everyone to our Holiday Cheer podcast and Nansey Sinclair and her daughter Christine share a fun Christmas trivia game.
Joel Flynn sings a selection of holiday songs: Dean Martin’s Marshmallow World, It’s Beginning to Look Like Christmas, Silver Bells and Let it Snow.
Neall Ryon reads his poems: Siddhartha by the River and In the Stillness.
Ramona, Leslie and others comment on ways the poems generate positive emotions and self-reflection.
In recognition of Kwanzaa, December 26-Jan 1, #CharlotteSistaCFerrell reads a segment of the Annual Message by #KwanzaaFather, Dr. Maulana Karenga, “bringing greetings of celebration, solidarity and continuing struggle for good in the world.”
Elizabeth Wu reads To Ann, a poem dedicated to a friend in hospice.
Charlotte invites listeners to hear our past episodes and register to join our Zoomcasts at www.poweredbyage.com
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3 E35 – Johnnie Proby
Our 85th Zoomcast (December 16, 2021);
Host #Charlotte Sista C Ferrell introduces our featured presenter, Johnnie Proby, a jazz and gospel recording artist, and ‘Sound Healing Practitioner. She sings Nat King Cole’s The Christmas Song, which generates a discussion about the powerful ways music and other vocal practices stimulate healing vibrations that regulate stress and act as a memory trigger for people with memory loss. Our virtual participants introduce themselves with the name of their favorite song. Johnnie explains how the words, tone or pace of our favorite songs help create our Heart song. Dr. Ramona Srinivasen chants the Lotus Sutra and explains it relaxing effect. Nansey Sinclaire shares how calming her heart while walking dogs and encountering a bear has lead to the bear walking past without bothering them.
Neall Ryon shares his poem The Yellow Umbrella which includes the song Sing a Song of Sunshine. You can enjoy more of Neall’s poems at fromtheotherside.ca
Listeners can get in touch with Johnnie at johnnieproby.com, or go to https://experience.heartmath.com/free for free meditations
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3 E34 - Gratitude
Our 84th Zoomcast (December 9, 2021);
Host Charlotte Sista C Ferrell introduces our theme for today, Gratitude, and welcomes 411 Centre Board member Jeannie Kammins, who shares a poem incorporating all the things she is grateful for.
Lesley Hebert reads her poem A Posy of Gratitude.
Ramona Srinivasan tells us the story of how her brother’s unfortunate accident led to her meeting
her husband.
Charlotte reads her poem Thank you for Being my Children from her book From Pillows to
Pillars.
Neill Ryon shares his story, Grateful for the Dishes, and reads In Appreciation, a poem from his
book From the Other Side.
We discuss how hearing each others’ expressions of gratitude increased our appreciation for all
the conveniences and choices we have and how it reduces stress and anxiety.
Jeannie announces the 411 Centre’s free Christmas decoration workshop on December 13, 10:30 to noon, and the December 22 Holiday Celebration. Call 604 684 8171 for reservations as numbers are limited. This is also the number to call for information and referral services or to become a member and/or volunteer.
Charlotte invites listeners to check out the ”S.P.I.N.”- Easy Listening segments on the PoweredbyAge.com website and to contact her at pbaafc@gmail.com to receive invitations and reminders to participate in our weekly Thursday podcast creation meetings.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3 E33 - Breaking News and Beautiful Brains
Our 83rd Zoomcast (December 2, 2021);
Host, #CharlotteSistaCFerrell introduces David Handelman, Chair of the 411 Seniors’ Programme and Membership Committee, and a longstanding Board Member. He announces the launch of Telus Internet for Good -the second phase of Telus programs that reflect positive reception to the appeals by 411 and other senior centers to make mobile phone and internet services more affordable for low-income seniors. The program extends the Telus Mobility for Seniors program which provides a $25 per month cell phone package and refurbished phones to seniors who receive the Guaranteed Income Supplement. For only $10 per month, the new Telus Internet for Good program provides seniors with no-contract home internet, installation of a router that gives ‘wi-fi’ access to tv, computers, and laptops- enabling affordable access to programs like our PBA podcasts, video medical calls, and connection to other services. Call Gurpreet Sandhu at the 411 Senior Center --604 684-8171 - if you need assistance applying to the program, computer help, or a free or low-cost computer.
The main event for today’s podcast is Your Beautiful Brain, facilitated by Ramona Srinivasan who leads off with fun facts on Brain Health and ways to improve it. Charlotte talks about the functions of different areas of the brain. and we discuss practices that support them. Ramona elicits comments on the powerful ways expressing gratitude nurtures our brains. Charlotte invites all listeners to write a gratitude story, poem, or another expression to share next week. (Dec 9) . Information about Telus for Good is available at https://www.telus.com/en/social-impact/connecting-canada/seniors/application
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3 E32 - Thinking About Words
Our 82nd Zoomcast (November 25, 2021);
We introduce ourselves with a “word of the day” and our host Charlotte Ferrell invites us to present pictures which are “worth 1000 words.” Neall Ryon shows us a photo of him chatting with a panda in China. Ramona Srinivasen describes an 80-year-old family photo. She tells us about the people in the picture, and we discuss connections between pictures and memories. Charlotte shows us a picture of a robot camera, and talks about its potential use in future programming.
Neall Ryon reads his poem How Dare You Write Poetry! In our feedback on his reading, we consider boundaries as both limitations and challenges.
Charlotte provides information on the online writers’ resource kindlepreneur.com and shows us one of its free writers, tools, lists of trigger words for emotions such as energy, fear and trust.
Ramona Srinivasan tells us about her upcoming workshop on “The Brain”
Charlotte encourages us to pass along information on our podcast and to send contact information for potential new members to pbaafc@gmail.com
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3 E31 - Introducing the STAR Institute
Our 81st Zoomcast (November 18, 2021);
Host, Charlotte Ferrell Introduces special guests Andrew Sixsmith and Hannah Shin of SFU’s STAR Institute who describe the community-based research they are conducting with the 411 Seniors’ Centre on the digital divide and accessible technology. They highlight the value of having a researcher onsite, assisting 411 Center volunteers with the arduous task of helping seniors install the Covid-19 vaccination QR code on their phones, and documenting other priority issues.
We discuss issues around the Provincial government roll out of the Covid-19 vaccination card, and the importance of providing immediate feedback to governmental and business entities that seniors (and others) need alternative-non digital ways of receiving vital information.
Information on the STAR Institute can be found at https://www.sfu.ca/starinstitute.html
Information on the Institute’s study on the BC vaccine card rollout is here: http://www.sfu.ca/starinstitute/about/institute-activities/responding-to-the-bc-vaccine-card-rollout.html
For a printed copy of the survey or to share questions and concerns, contact Hannah Shin by email hannah_shin@sfu.ca or by phone her at 250-580-3719.
Charlotte encouraged listeners to visit the 411 Seniors Centre Society, which serves all BC seniors, at 333 Terminal Avenue. Phone (604) 684-817l for an appointment to use the computer resource centre or for assistance on immigration, income tax, housing and other services.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Grant; and G & F Financial.
S3 E30 - Remembrance
Our 80th Zoomcast (November 11, 2021);
Charlotte Ferrell welcomes us to this special Remembrance Day episode to share memories and engage in a wide-ranging discussion of our sometimes conflicted thoughts on this day. Ramona Srinavasan shares songs and memories of her mother and her childhood in Mumbai. Charlotte Ferrell shares memories of her father inspired by an Automobile Club handbook. Lesley Hebert describes a map of her father’s World War Two march through Europe and his feelings about November 11.
Our discussion topics include the complex issue of women in the military, sexual abuse prevention, ways to use social media and education to encourage social change, the rise of
intergenerational collaboration and global awareness of alternatives to war, and the nature of democracy.
Charlotte outlines upcoming programmes and encourages people to contact her at pbaafc@gmail.com with their programming ideas.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Program; and G & F Financial.
S3 E29 - Diwali Celebration
Our 79th Zoomcast (November 4, 2021);
Charlotte Ferrell welcomes us to our first hybrid Zoom/live programme from the 411 Centre, where members are celebrating Diwali, the Hindu Festival of Lights.
Ramona Srinivasanan talks about Diwali customs, sings a Sanskrit song celebrating the triumph of light over darkness, and shows us a table of traditional offerings to Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth. She introduces traditional rangoli and answers our questions as we share the relaxing, cooperative, time-consuming process of creating a rangoli design with 411 Centre members who have come to the center for the event.
Everyone compliments Jeannie Kamins, a 411 Senior Center Board Member and professional artist for coming in early to sketch the designs on a table for this engaging group activity where people fill in the design with an array of paint powders.
411 Centre Membership and Volunteer Coordinator Gurpreet Pannu tells us more about Diwali and answers our questions. Gurpreet outlines future 411 programming plans, and explains the INR programme, which helps seniors to navigate government services and assistance. For more information on 411 membership, which is currently free, please email Gurpreet at gsandhu@411seniors.bc.ca or phone 604 6848171 Ext 242.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons Program; and G & F Financial.
S3 E28 - Putting out Your Best Voice Possible
Our 78th Zoomcast (October 28, 2021);
Charlotte updates the goal for exploring ways to “put our best voices possible” in reading or creative writing is to increase opportunities to have our work published as audio books or included in “listening sessions” hosted on websites, such as PBA or community radio stations, such as CJSF. She invites us to introduce ourselves with a notable event associated with the date on a coin, and to describe the types of writing we enjoy doing.
We share feedback on an exercise where we read short segment of our own, or others’ work. Lesley Hebert plays with reading part of her travel story Soccer Fever at different speeds, and reads it normally later in the podcast. Neill Ryon repeats the exercise with an extract from The Artists Way by Judith Cameron and we discuss the goals of these reading exercises. We give Delsa Degait feedback on a reading of Sad Guru’s advice on fear, anxiety and insecurity.
We discuss an audio clip by from Becoming by Michelle Obama.
Neill read part of his short story Universum Fabulum.
Charlotte provides ideas on how to use collaboration to meet the challenges of self-publishing and recording audio books – two potentially income-generating activities several of our
podcasters have expressed a desire to pursue.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada-New Horizons Program; and the G & F Financial Group.
S3 E26 - Poetry by Peter Jailall
Our 76th Zoomcast (October 14, 2021);
Host Charlotte Sista C Ferrell introduces Peter Jailall, our featured guest, who is a retired teacher continuing his work as an activist through storytelling and poetry performances across Canada and the Caribbean. He evokes comments about the influence of grandparents after tenderly reading his poems Aja and Aji, dedicated to his paternal grandfather and grandmother. Listening to his poems Gratitude, When September Comes, and Black Skin generate discussion of systemic racism and sexism.
Members of our live “Zoomcast” discuss the benefits of creative arts and meditation in the
classroom as demonstrated by hearing Peter read his anti-bullying book for children, Stop! Stop! Don’t Be a Bully! which is available for purchase through Amazon.ca.
Charlotte concludes with possible topics for future PBA podcast meetings and welcomes ideas. Listeners can send suggestions to pbaafc@gmail.com
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons
Program; and F & G Financial.
S3 E27 - Put Your Best Voice Forward
Our 77th Zoomcast (October 21, 2021);
Our host, Charlotte Sista C Ferrell invites us to introduce ourselves with an animal sound that reflects our feelings about the past week, and introduces Robin Eriksson, a PBA Podcast mentor who is also Program Coordinator at CJSF radio.
She opens our skill-based session, “Put Your Best Voice Forward” with a guided meditation on bodily awareness.
We listen to Lesley Hebert’s description of Japanese soccer fans, Neill Ryon’s poem The Yellow Umbrella, Chris Morrissey’s childhood vacation memory, Delsa Degait’s poem on a Buddhist monk, Prafulla Vayas’s poem about a kitten and Peter Jailall’s poem You Must be Born Again. Robin gives each one a different cue for re’vitalizing their reading by varying the speed, intonation or vocal range to add tension, drama and power to their voices. Although none of the group had previously experienced such cues everyone expressed happiness with the effect and new way of experiencing their writing.
Robin announces that the new CJSF studio at SFU is almost ready to begin in-person broadcasts. Those interested in taking part in more extensive preparation to host a radio show or record their writing can email her at cjsfprog@sfu.ca. Charlotte announced PBA future sessions will continue to offer audio and virtual technology skill building; she welcomed everyone to email her at pbaafc@gmail.com to share ideas or register to join our podcast program.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society; The Government of Canada: New Horizons
Program; and G & F Financial
S3 E25 - The Meaning of Cheer
Our 75th Zoomcast (October 7, 2021);
To celebrate our 75th episode, our host Charlotte Ferrell recalls past program accomplishments, such as covering all 20 topics initially indicated as key elements in creating an “Age-Friendly City.”.
Delsa Degeit introduces her friend and upcoming feature guest, award-winning poet Peter Jailall.
Inspired by last week’s episode on tribute poems, Nansey Sinclaire reads Where does the Time Go? a meditation in celebration of Older Person’s Day. Rosario Larion reads her poem The Being Next Door. Aparna reads an introspective tribute to her mother and Lesley Hebert reads an endearing acrostic poem.
Charlotte leads an activity—"write your heart more cheer” from her book Heart Balm Just for You. We brainstorm adjectives around the concept of “Cheer” and use them to create a poem or paragraph to the accompaniment of “Dance of Life: Relaxing Fantasy Music for relaxation and meditation” and “Upbeat Study Music: Deep Focus for Complex Tasks”.
Peter Jailall shares his poem “Old Fight, with accolades for older people’s contributions to our society.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society, Vancouver; the government of Canada- Information and Referral; and F & G Financial.
S3 E24 - Awareness, Celebration and Tributes
Our 74th Zoomcast (September 30, 2021); Hosted by #CharlotteSistaCFerrell
Charlotte welcomes us to our 74th edition-- Powered by Age’s second “birthday” anniversary as a senior-led podcast program. JesseWentzloff plays Stevie Wonder’s Happy Birthday to Ya.
In recognition of Canada’s new September 30 national holiday, Truth and Reconciliation Day, we watch two videos and discuss the issues and ways to move forward. In the first, Chief Robert Joseph highlights the horrific ways Indigenous children’s lives were devastated as they were separated from their parents and sent to residential schools. The second, 94 Calls in 94 Days, encourages everyone to learn the Truth and Reconciliation Commission Calls to Action and put one into practice daily.
Nansey Sinclaire reads and explains the rationale for the UN proclamation of October 1 as the International Day of Older Persons. This year’s focus is “Digital Equity for all Ages.” Charlotte helps us to write a tribute poem to ourselves based on acrostics of our names and reads her poem Rebirthing I Worthiness. Poems we create today will be read Oct. 1, at a “Seniors Day” event at the 411 Senior Center., Vancouver.
Sponsored by the 411 Seniors Centre Society, Vancouver; The Government of Canada,
Information and Referral Services, and F & G Financial.
S3 E23 – Re-imagine Yourself through Memory, Mindfulness and Meditation
Our 73rd Zoomcast (September 23, 2021);
Charlotte introduces today’s facilitators/ podcast mentors: Jesse Wentzloff and Nansey Sinclaire. Nansey opens today’s session with a humorous narrative on typical human concern about schedules and success versus the memory of mi versus re-imagining life where world peace, Tupperware lids and odd socks.
Delsa Degeit explains the difference between mindfulness and meditation. She leads us through a guided meditation. We discuss how the experience affected us and discuss the nature and purpose of silence.
Neall reads a poem from the Bhagavad Gita about the nature of God.
Jesse comments on the value of silence within a podcast or radio show when people are nudged to reflect upon their lives or practice an unfamiliar meditation.
Charlotte gives a preview PBA’s Thursday’s 2nd year birthday celebration where she will present a Tribute Poem writing workshop where selected poems will be presented Oct 1 at the 411 Senior Centre’s annual program dedicated to the U.N. International Day of Older People.
S3 E22 - Inspirational Prompts
Our 72nd Zoomcast (September 16, 2021);
Our podcasters write and read inspiring stories based on Charlotte’s prompt:
"a 7.5-year-old child and their 75-year-old relative are planning to make a lunch to take outside. Write how you think their conversation will go.”
Stories included “A picnic with Nana”, and A first day of Preschool.
Charlotte presents ideas for using paper plates and found materials to create crests representing us as individuals, our backgrounds, and our state of mind. We describe our creations to the group and discuss the history and meaning of crests in various cultures. Neall Ryon reads a new poem, the Yellow Umbrella.
S3E21 - The Why, What and When of Important Senior Issues
Our 74th Zoomcast September 9, 2021);
Charlotte introduces Marion Pollack, 411 Senior Centre Society Chair and seniors’ advocate, who outlines key election issues, emphasizing national standards for affordable long term care; increased community-based funding for senior housing; affordable health and Pharmacare. Marion encourages listeners to vote and to consider joining the 411 Centre Seniors’ Issues Committee. For information, phone (604) 684-8171.
Our other guest--environmental activist, Susan Gage—enlightens us about elder and intergenerational protests at the Fairy Creek old growth logging site and ongoing court cases against logging companies and the RCMP. Susan believes it is both a privilege and a responsibility for elders to play key roles in environmental activism. Our online ‘zoomsters’ echoed these concerns and expressed interest in joining letter writing or other advocacy efforts to get more healthy brain and mental health programs for seniors; reducing the 2 year wait for subsidized housing; and universal, affordable daycare for young families to ease this burden on grandparents.. .
Neall Ryon, Nansey Sinclair and Lesley Hebert read Neall’s multi-voice performance piece The Alien, a short story with a big nudge to consider how we treat others. Host, #CharlotteSistaCFerrell notes that stories and poems are powerful advocacy tools and welcomes more. Next week we will be celebrating our 75th Episode.
S3E20 - Sharing Stories
Our 70th Zoomcast (September 2nd, 2021);
Another week of stories and other writing from our PBA podcasters.
Last week, Author/Host Charlotte Sista C Ferrell gave us 2 alternative Writing Prompts to use in writing either a poem or a mini-story, and several participants share their responses this week.
These prompts are as follows:
- Imagine you woke up to discover it is 30 years in the future. Describe or write what you would say to the first person you meet.
- Write a funny or silly “to do list” that you would give to a kid who asks what they could do to earn $20.
We also hear a short story by award-winning author Neall Ryon who has just braved the odds and published a new book of stories and is making sales.
S3E19 - Writers at Work
Our 69th Zoomcast (Aug 26th, 2021);
Host, #Charlotte Sista C Ferrell opened with a welcome to our featured presenters, Una Bruhns and Lesley Hebert; others participating as guests introduced themselves.
Una, a published author and writing activity leader began with inspiring Haiku poems about the Cherry Blossom festival. This led to others’ sharing memories of cherry blossom festivals and several inquiries about the nature of Haikus. Una anchored the structure of this three-line poem with 5 syllables, 7 syllables, then 5 syllables. Aside from encouraging us to experiment writing a haiku about anything that inspires us – plants, people, events. Her rich bounty of inspiration included sharing how she created the book, Poetry in Photography where poems convey feelings generated by photos. Her tips are to read other people’s poems; use writing prompts and participate in critique groups.
Leslie demonstrated the value of participating in a review or critique by reading a suspenseful attention-locking passage from her memoir- Japan travelogue in the works. As a career writer and - English as a Second Language instructor, Leslie has not only educated hundreds of students, she’s won awards and had some recent poems selected for publication. Her tips were to always carry a notebook, go out into the world, “relax, observe, and just let your words come.
Our engaged “zoomcast” guest participants also described ways that writing enriches their lives. These included Jenny, Neall, Ramona, Del and Maria who will be sharing their work in upcoming podcasts.
S3E18 - Influencers
Our 78th Zoomcast (Thursday, Aug 19);
We learn the Who, Why and What about "Influencers", and explore whether YOU could be one with our guest, Dr. Ramona Srinivasan.
She has been teaching in schools and colleges, across Mumbai for 40 years. Her students included Bollywood film stars, and the grandson of the then Prime
Minister of India, Morarji Desai.
She has written several textbooks in History and workbooks in French. I received a publication award for her published thesis,Diarchy in the Bombay Presidency.
Her other passions include singing, mostly Western music in choirs in India and Canada as well. IShe also sing spiritual songs in Sanskrit, known as bhajans (kirtans), which she continues here on zoom every Sunday, with a group in Lagos , Nigeria.
She has always been a voracious reader, and is ever grateful to the libraries in Canada, which permit me to continue reading one fiction and one nonfiction book every week. In Toronto, she joined the Active Adults Centre, in Mississauga, where she participated in various events, like a fundraiser with the Active Goan Adults, and volunteer work in Telephone Reassurance.
S3E17 - Island Hopping
In the midst of this Heat Wave, we have a cool treat for you. Join our Podcast ship and enjoy Nansey Sinclaire’s travelogue “Day trip to Nanaimo”. You will almost feel the sea breeze as we travel along the waterfront, roam downtown, and check out the restaurants, museums, and art galleries. Imagine an overnight stay with a little jaunt over to Newcastle, Protection or Gabriola Island from downtown Nanaimo. Get answers to your questions on where, how, or how much it takes to travel to the islands “across the way.” Hear about special ferry fees for seniors on certain days. Nansey is a PBA production team member, former radio show host, innovative 50+ owner of a pet ‘nurturing’ business, and a community services volunteer.
S3 E16 - Chi, That’s Nice
Charlotte Sista C Ferrell welcomes us to the start of “Awesome August”.
We do our customary self intros of people online at the start, we hear an overview of today’s “Chi, that’s Nice” – energizing Breathing and Chair Yoga class with Gurpreet Sandhu, the Memberships and Volunteering Coordinator for 411 Seniors Centre. Gurpreet describes and demonstrates simple, daily, arm and shoulder movements that help us to feel rejuvenated. She took us through some seated neck stretches that help relieve stress or strains after long periods of sitting, especially before going to sleep. Listeners may be able to follow the audio from Gurpreet’s excellent descriptions. According to her, “Yoga is a great way for people to gain balance and strength in all phases of life.”
Today, we also heard award-winning Author, Neall Ryon read a story from his latest book, the Brighton Tarot Card Mystery. He shared how his “Cold Break” story evolved from a writing prompt for a 24 hour writing contest. Next Week our Awesome August feature will be a Travelogue by Nansey Sinclaire with tips on how we can enjoy the “fantasy islands” a short ferry ride away.
S3 E15 - Celebrating Pride with QUIRK-E
Our 65th Zoomcast (July 30, 2021);
Charlotte acknowledges that we are previewing and creatively acknowledging the onset of PRIDE Week in Vancouver this weekend. Some members of our podcast group are also members of QUIRK-E the QUeer wRiting and Imaging Kollective for Elders. We discussed the stories written by Cyndia, Don, and River; a mini history of PRIDE and its new directions from Chris. We also discussed the many applications for QUIRK-E’s new Zine about overcoming Black Racism in Canada. Next month we begin Awesome August” with explorations of Extended or Alternative Health, Chair Yoga, an sample workshops being considered for dual presentation on Zoom.
S3 E14 - Movement and Health
Our 64th Zoomcast (July 22, 2021);
We discuss the importance of reviewing and following the Covid-19 regulations the 411 Senior Center and other senior centers are communicating to members as they slowly resume services. Charlotte presents some colorful infographics on ways exercise benefits muscles, circulation, and brain health. She leads an “virtual outdoor movement” activity where everyone first imagines themselves like a small animal and mimics its movement, then we go a guided visioning activity moving as tree branches. We concluded there is a benefit to breaking up our hour-long weekly meeting with exercises and will invite practitioners of different modalities, such as Emotional Freedom Technique.
S3 E13 – A Writing Roundtable
Our 63rd Zoomcast (July 15, 2021);
Charlotte facilitated our discussion of favorite authors, writing styles and the challenges or schemes some independent writers face, especially older ones. Neall describes how loving his work provides the motivation to enter contests such as the Writers’ Weekly periodic 24- hour short story contest. Chris and Lesley are making progress in organizing segments they have written for memoires. Lesley shared the benefits of joining a readers’ group where everyone reads segments of their work and gets feedback. Dr. Ramona, a retired professor likes writing children stories, vignettes and exploring “influencers.” Charlotte shared her positive experience in getting her book, Heart Balm Just for You accepted into the Vancouver Public Library system.
S3 E12 - Getting to Know You And What you Love
Our 62nd Zoomcast (July 8, 2021);
Charlotte welcomed new and existing participants to introduce themselves around something they love to do. We used the Zoom “rooms” and discussed how the interests and skills identified will help us select future topics or activities. Chris informed us that City Council has approved a new LGBTQ2+ Center after 20 years. Nansey is keen on presenting a travelogue of beautiful, nearby affordable places; Diane loves sharing a variety of writing styles and teaching holistic health practices; Neal described new explorations of the emotional world reflected in his poetry and a new book of short stories. Jesse confirmed people will be able to make appointments to record new SPINS for the PBA website. Our next two months will be termed Awesome August, and Savvy September.