Shows
Gower HourGower Hour, Episode 12: Superintendent of the Trinity Alps Unified School District Jaime GreenIn this episode of Gower Hour, host Bode Gower sat down with the Superintendent of the Trinity Alps Unified School District Superintendent Jaime Green. They explored various topics including rural education, legislative efforts in Washington D.C., and much more. Listen in as we bring you closer to today's politics through the lens of the next generation of leaders.2025-07-0258 min
Gower HourGower Hour, Episode 11: California State Assemblyman Damon ConnollyIn this episode of Gower Hour, host Bode Gower sat down with California State Assemblyman Damon Connolly. They explored various topics including wildfire mitigation, housing affordability, water sustainability, and much more. Listen in as we bring you closer to today's politics through the lens of the next generation of leaders.2025-06-0459 min
Gower HourGower Hour, Episode 10: Chair of the Mendocino County Inland Water and Power Commission Janet Pauli and Lake County Supervisor Eddie CrandellIn this episode of Gower Hour, host Bode Gower sat down with Chair of the Mendocino County Inland Water and Power Commission Janet Pauli and Lake County Supervisor Eddie Crandell. They explored various topics including the Potter Valley Project, it's implications for the North Coast, and much more. Listen in as we bring you closer to today's politics through the lens of the next generation of leaders.2025-05-0744 min
Gower HourGower Hour, Episode 9: Former California State Senator Josh NewmanIn this episode of Gower Hour, host Bode Gower sat down with Former California State Senator Josh Newman. They explored various topics including CTE programs, broadband, his political future, and much more. Listen in as we bring you closer to today's politics through the lens of the next generation of leaders.2025-04-0955 min
Gower HourGower Hour, Episode 8: Chair of the California Democratic Party Rusty HicksIn this episode of Gower Hour, host Bode Gower sat down with the Chair of the California Democratic Party Rusty Hicks. They explored various topics including broadband access, rural living, the 2024 election, and much more. Listen in as we bring you closer to today's politics through the lens of the next generation of leaders.2025-03-0559 min
Gower HourGower Hour, Episode 7: California State Assemblyman Chris RogersIn this episode of Gower Hour, host Bode Gower sat down with California State Assemblyman Chris Rogers. They explored various topics including wildfire mitigation, education funding, water rights, and much more. Listen in as we bring you closer to today's politics through the lens of the next generation of leaders.2025-02-0559 min
Gower HourGower Hour, Episode 6: California State Assemblywoman Heather HadwickIn this episode of Gower Hour, host Bode Gower sat down with California State Assemblywoman Heather Hadwick. They explored various topics, including rural inequities, career pathways, and much more. Listen in as we bring you closer to today's politics through the lens of the next generation of leaders.2025-01-0159 min
Gower HourGower Hour, Episode 5: Post-Election EpisodeIn this episode of Gower Hour, host Bode Gower sat down with elected officials from all across Mendocino County, sharing their plans and priorities for their communities. He'll also be offering his post-election analysis from a young person’s perspective, diving into one of the most consequential elections of our lifetime. Listen in as we bring you closer to today's politics through the lens of the next generation of leaders.2024-12-0458 min
Gower HourGower Hour, Episode 4: Mendocino County Superintendent Nicole Glentzer and Executive Director of the SSDA Yuri CalderonIn this episode of Gower Hour, host Bode Gower sat down with Mendocino County Superintendent Nicole Glentzer and Executive Director of the Small School Districts’ Association Yuri Calderon. They explored various topics, including the challenges of educating youth in rural areas, parents involvement in education, and much more. Listen in as we bring you closer to today's politics through the lens of the next generation of leaders.2024-11-0658 min
Gower HourGower Hour, Episode 3: Sonoma County Supervisor James GoreIn this episode of Gower Hour, host Bode Gower sat down with Sonoma County Supervisor and President of the National Association of Counties James Gore. They explored various topics, including broadband, water issues, and the upcoming electoral landscape. Listen in as we bring you closer to today's politics through the lens of the next generation of leaders. 2024-10-0258 min
Gower HourGower Hour, Episode 2: Mendocino County Sheriff Matt KendallIn this episode of Gower Hour, host Bode Gower sat down with Mendocino County Sheriff Matt Kendall. They dived into a range of important topics from homelessness to Prop 36 to marijuana enforcement and much more. Listen in as we bring you closer to today's politics through the lens of the next generation of leaders.2024-09-0459 min
Gower HourGower Hour, Episode 1: Mendocino County Supervisor-elect Madeline ClineIn this episode of Gower Hour, host Bode Gower sat down with Mendocino County Supervisor-elect Madeline Cline. They dived into a range of important topics from the inadequacies of rural representation in politics, the impact on age discrimination in politics, and much more. Listen in as we bring you closer to today's politics through the lens of the next generation of leaders.2024-08-1759 min
My Person Died Too62. Limiting Beliefs & The Stories We Tell OurselvesWhat are limiting beliefs?
Where do they come from?
How do they stop me from doing what I'd really love to do?
How do they impact my grief?
How can I change them?
We answer all these questions and more in this insightful episode about how limiting beliefs and old wounds can shape our lives and also our grief.
Don't forget to check out our book "The Stupid Shit People Say To Grievers". It's available worldwide via Amazon. Click on the link for your country below to...2024-04-2335 minMy Person Died Too60. Grief In The WorkplaceThis week we have a very important conversation around returning to work after the loss of someone you love.
We discuss the ridiculous amount of bereavement leave that most workplaces offer, how you may feel emotionally, and the expectations you may put on yourself. We share our own personal experiences, as well as those of some of our listeners, and suggest some things that you and your workplace can do to make the transition back to work a little gentler.
Feel free to share this episode with other grievers and workplaces. We really need to...2024-04-0953 minMy Person Died Too56. But if I re-partner, who will I be with in heaven?It's a question that will sometimes cross your mind when you're widowed and might be starting to consider dating again...
"But if I re-partner, who will I be with in heaven?"
In this episode, John and Carolyn discuss their own personal thoughts on this topic, and how this question has affected some of their clients' decisions on whether to date after loss.
Please note that we are simply providing our own personal thoughts and beliefs on this sensitive topic and are not trying to say that this is the truth, nor should be...2024-03-1227 minMy Person Died Too55. Life As A Solo Dad: Meet Connor CoganThis week we introduce you to a very special guest, who is also one of our My Person Died Too Facebook Community members.
Connor Cogan was happily married to his beautiful wife Kate, with whom he shares three amazing kids. Life was going great, until it wasn't.
Connor shares his heartfelt stories of loss, grief, solo parenting, and learning to live again without his beloved Kate by his side.
Connor speaks with raw vulnerability about how different his life looks now, the ways he teaches their kids about grief, and the importance of...2024-03-0555 minMy Person Died Too54. Grieving In A New YearWe are back with the first episode of 2024.
This week we talk about what it feels like carrying grief into a new year. This can be one of those sneaky times when grief unexpectedly hits hard.
We both share some of the ways our grief has changed over the years, with the recent 8 year anniversary of John's wife Michelle's passing, and as Carolyn approaches the 7 year anniversary of her husband Tony's death.
We finish up with our "ins and outs" for 2024. The things we want to leave behind and the things we want...2024-02-2755 minMy Person Died Too53. Post Traumatic GrowthPost-Traumatic Growth is best described as the positive psychological changes that some individuals
experience in the aftermath of a challenging or traumatic event.
In this episode we discuss the answers to the following questions and share some our our own personal experiences.
What is Post-Traumatic Growth?
Does everyone experience Post-Traumatic Growth?
What are the personality traits of those who experience Post-Traumatic Growth?
How do you increase your chances of Post-Traumatic Growth?
Can Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Post-Traumatic Growth co-exist?
What does the term "finding meaning" m...2023-12-261h 12My Person Died Too52. Grief And The Weird Shit We DoGrief can cause you to do some really weird shit... things that you probably never imagined yourself doing.
But now, as you're doing these things, they don't feel weird at all.
In this episode, John and Carolyn share some of their own personal experiences, plus others from some of our grief community.
We've come to the conclusion that nothing is weird in grief, because EVERYTHING is weird in grief!
Don't forget to check out our book "The Stupid Shit People Say To Grievers". It's available worldwide via Amazon. Click on the...2023-12-1920 minMy Person Died Too50. Grief TruthsIn the time that we've both been widowed, we sure have learnt a lot of grief truths!
It would take us an entire week to share them all, so we've hand selected a few (or 30) to discuss this week.
Don't forget to check out our book "The Stupid Shit People Say To Grievers". It's available worldwide via Amazon. Click on the link for your country below to order:
US:
The Stupid Sh*t People Say to Grievers: Polo, John, Gower, Carolyn: 9798373054041: Amazon.com: Books
AUS:
The Stupid Sh*t People Say to...2023-12-0536 minMy Person Died Too48. Grief AnonymousThis week we asked for your questions, rants, observations or anything you wanted to share that you've experienced during your grief.
Everything is anonymous, so nothing was out of bounds.
And you sure did deliver!
We chose a cross selection of your responses so that we could share a few of the topics that come up regularly with our coaching clients, but may not often be spoken about openly.
We realize that some of these conversations may feel inappropriate for some of our listeners, however when we decided to do this...2023-11-2149 minMy Person Died Too46. If I Could Relive One Day With YouIf you were given the chance to relive one day with your person, which day would it be?
This is the question we asked some of our listeners, and we loved sharing their beautiful stories.
We also shared details of the day we would relive with our late spouses.
Check out our book "The Stupid Shit People Say To Grievers". It's available worldwide via Amazon. Click on the link for your country below to order:
US:
The Stupid Sh*t People Say to Grievers: Polo, John, Gower, Carolyn: 9798373054041: Amazon...2023-11-0741 min
The Uncensored Critic PodcastOrlando Mendez on The Voice USA, Country Music and Future ReleasesOrlando Mendez aka “The Cuban Cowboy”, star of The Voice USA in 2022 talks country music, being mentored by Camila Cabello and his upcoming EP’s.
Orlando was one of the starts on the USA’s edition of The Voice, at his auditions (available on YouTube) he won the mentorship of Camila Cabello (songs include “Havana” and “Señorita”) and proceeded to make his mark not only on the show but on country music.
Since then he has a series of EP’s that will become available this year and into 2024, his next song “Where I Am Right Now” will be...2023-10-2827 minMy Person Died Too43. It's Okay To Change Your MindIn the early days of grief, it's normal to want to make big decisions regarding your future, decisions that you feel are permanent.
It might be deciding to never sell the home you lived in with your loved one who died, or a widowed person might decide they never want to re-partner.
These decisions are real and are how you feel at that time.
While it's completely fine to stick with these decisions if you choose, what happens if over time you change your mind?
In this episode, John and Carolyn...2023-10-1736 minMy Person Died Too42. What We've Been Up ToIt's been 7 months since our last episode and we are so excited to be back!!!
In this episode we share just what we've both been up to in this past 7 months.
Carolyn tells us about the flesh-eating bacteria that took her by surprise back in March and almost killed her; what has kept her going through this latest challenge; how she has dealt with it without her beloved Tony by her side, and some of her tips for getting through hard things.
On a lighter note, John shares some of the big, exciting...2023-10-1056 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastMarianne Oldham on A Monster Calls and Devising TheatreMarianne Oldham is an actress who was also part of the incredible company who made A Monster Calls at the Bristol Old Vic which transferred to London in Summer 2018. A show discussed in depth on this show and one that stays extremely close to my heart.
She is also well-known for her roles in:
A Very English Scandal
Finding Your Feet
Crimson Field
The Impressionists
As well as a huge body of work in the theatre with credits that include:
Present Laughter
A...2023-10-091h 16My Person Died Too41. What To Do With All Their Stuff?!?!"When is the right time to go through my person's stuff & what the hell do I do with it?"
These are common questions from grievers after their loved one dies.
In this episode we share some of our own personal experiences and helpful tips, as well as some of our client's stories to help you find what feels right for you if you find yourself in this situation.
Our brand new book, "The Stupid Shit People Say To Grievers" is now available worldwide via Amazon. Click on the link for your country below...2023-03-0734 minMy Person Died Too40. Different After You: Meet Michele Neff-HernandezOur very special guest this week is Michele Neff-Hernandez.
Michele is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Soaring Spirits International, a non-profit organization providing peer support programming for widowed people worldwide. Michele is the author of Different After You: Rediscovering Yourself and Healing after Grief or Trauma published by New World Library in February of 2022. Her passion for supporting widowed people and the power of integration fuels her presentations and her community activism.
Michele has received a local, state, and national recognition for her work in founding Soaring Spirits, including a letter of recognition...2023-02-281h 02My Person Died Too39. Our Book: A Sneak PeekIn this episode we give you a sneak peek into our brand new book, The Stupid Shit People Say To Grievers.
We share how this book came about, including the messages we both received from our late spouses guiding us to write it, the challenges of writing a book from opposite sides of the world, the finished product, and our hopes for the book.
The Stupid Shit People Say To Grievers is now available worldwide via Amazon. Click on the link for your country below to order:
US:
The Stupid Sh...2023-02-2130 minMy Person Died Too38. Grief Is So Damn LonelyGrief can feel incredibly lonely.
You will often hear a grieving person say that they can be in a room full of people and still feel very alone.
In this episode, John & Carolyn take a closer look at what makes grievers feel so isolated and alone, and some ways to help.
We are both very passionate about this topic, which we're sure you'll be able to tell when you listen!
We are super excited to let you know that our brand new book, The Stupid Shit People Say To Grievers is...2023-02-1449 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastChristopher McElroen on Directing for TheatreChristopher McElroen is a director and founder of theatre companies The American Vicarious and Classic Theatre of Harlem based in Brooklyn in New York City.
He creates work that reflects what unites and divides the population of the United States through productions such as The Invisible Man and The Debate: Baldwin vs Buckley the latter you'll be able to catch at the Stone Nest Theatre in London's West End this year.
Christopher has also been a guest speaker at some of the most illustrious institutions in the world from Pace University, Stanford, and New York Un...2023-02-0754 min
Fertility ForwardEp 107: Goodbye Perfection and Hello Balance, with Katie DewhurstFinding balance and welcoming that balance into your life will help you create a lifestyle that leads to being a healthy person while also having room for the indulgences and other “good” parts of life you don’t want to miss out on. Our guest today is Katie Dewhurst, the founder, and CEO of Hello Balance, a health and wellness company helping millennial women optimize their health through food. She’s a certified functional medicine health coach and nutritionist, a cookbook author, and the founder of the Hello Baby Prenatal Nutrition course. Her health coaching approach is based on the late...2023-02-0242 minFertility ForwardEp 106: Immunology in Fertility Care with Dr. Daniel SteinThe health of your immune system can gravely affect your fertility and ability to become pregnant. Joining us today on Fertility Forward is specialist Dr. Daniel Stein, to talk about how immunology affects fertility care. In this episode, you will hear all about immunotolerance, how a functioning immune system is beneficial to pregnancy, when your immune system affects your ability to carry a pregnancy and how to know, as well as how to test for any immune system issues affecting your fertility. We also discuss why blood tests may not be helpful, how to spot treatments that aren’t go...2023-01-2620 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastAbdullah Khan on DirectingAt such a young age Abdullah Khan has already achieved so much in the film industry.
At the age of 18 he was working on the sets of Star Wars, Fast and Furious: Hobbs and Shaw, and 1917.
As well as, working for Neal Street Productions with Sam Mendes.
In 2021 he founded his own production company Rosebud Films and has made short films such as Find the Light with George Mackay, and Path to Ecstacy with Mike Jibson, Louie Serkis, and myself!
Great talk about how you can make a great picture.
2022-12-201h 23
The Uncensored Critic PodcastRebecca Reaney on Movement and the Importance of ActorsRebecca is a movement director, actress, and all round lover of the arts.
She specialises in movement sequences for screen and stage.
Rebecca and I both worked together at GSA on our public show Widows by Ariel Dorfman and Tony Kushner, and it was a pleasure to learn from her techniques and rehearsal activities to help myself and my peers immerse ourselves in the play, and find the inner journey of our characters.
She is also incredibly passionate about just how important actors are to themselves and to the world with what they ca...2022-06-111h 19Fertility ForwardEp 90: Infertility 101Struggling with infertility and trying to conceive can often feel lonely and isolating. If only there was a simple and practical guide for those on this journey. Well, now there is! Join us today for an intimate conversation about Rena Gower’s new book, Infertility 101: A Quick & Concise Guide to the Club You Never Wanted to Join, which touches on a diverse range of topics and materials that those struggling with infertility may be grappling with. In this episode, Rena shares how she channeled her personal experience into writing the book, how she hopes to destigmatize the topic of in...2022-05-2630 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastMike Jibson on the Actor's Journey and performing in Hamilton in the West EndMike Jibson in an incredible actor and another member of the GSA family, and since graduating he has worked across stage, screen and television with some of the best people in the business. From Lin-Manuel Miranda, Sam Mendes and Anne Hathaway to name a few!
We both worked together recently on the upcoming short film A Path to Ecstasy with Louie Serkis, son of Andy! Filmed in Casino Nightclub in Guildford, directed by Abdullah Khan, due to be released later this year.
Mike talks about the journey of an actor, the countless auditions, the success i...2022-05-211h 33
Grains Matter ChatterEpisode 96 - Weekly Market UpdateHappy May Long.This week we are very happy to welcome Bob Smith to our Grains Matter Chatter family. Bob started as a Grain Merchandiser with North Gower Grains in Jan this year. Welcome Bob. Another volatile week in the markets, thanks for tuning in, have a great weekend. 2022-05-2015 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastAndrew Davidson on Meisner and Script AnalysisAndrew is a director and composer who has been involved in a variety of projects across the artistic industry.
From plays, musicals, cabaret, opera, and ballet he is a man who loves the arts!
I've had the pleasure of being taught by Andrew at GSA, looking at the play Rabbit Hole by David Lindsay-Abaire, how to breakdown the text, learn lines mechanically, but not perform mechanically. Perform with one thought to the next, engaging and listening to your scene partner, and live in the moment without wondering what your next line is.
Andrew di...2022-05-141h 23
Councillor Glen's Stittsville UpdatesMAY 14: Improving transportation on Stittsville Main StreetLive from Sunray Park in the southern end of Stittsville
- Tick key giveaway from Ottawa Public Health - email glen.gower@ottawa.ca
- Family Bike Ride tomorrow - register at https://glengower.ca
- Stittsville Main Street Public Realm Plan - see the plan for pedestrians and cyclists, and five things we're doing to help with traffic on the street
- May 19 - public meeting for 1364 Stittsville Main Street
- May 31 - public meeting for 6310 Hazeldean Road
- Police launch "Project Noisemaker" - targeting speeding and noise. Hear it, see...2022-05-1410 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastChris Palmer on the Human Voice and its PowerChris is an inspirational voice teacher as well as person, and it was great to hear about her journey working with the voice.
She is currently the Head of Voice at the Guildford School of Acting, with BA and MA's in Advanced Voice Studies. She works with actors, singers, and even politicians about how they can use their voices to their best effect.
Her practice is all about learning from one another, what you can gain from each other from listening and observing from each others voices and traits in the rehearsal room, or indeed any...2022-04-181h 13The Uncensored Critic PodcastDan Canham on A Monster Calls, creating Movement for Theatre, and Film ProductionDan is a movement director with a wealth of experience in the industry as a filmmaker and especially as a movement director. He has worked with Sally Cookson on A Monster Calls (Bristol and London Old Vic) and Jane Eyre (Bristol Old Vic and National Theatre). As well as, Kneehigh, Punchdrunk, DV8, and Fabulous Beast companies.
He also has his own theatre company Still House, links to his and the company's work is below.
Dan takes me through his inspirations to be involved in movement, working together with others, and how to overcome bad days in...2022-04-071h 14
The Slow ReaderFlow My Tears, the Policeman SaidIn this episode, I review Flow My Tears, the Policeman Said by Philip K. Dick - but I'm joined by special guest Josh Wetenkamp! Josh and I picked this book to review late last year, and we finally got together to read it & pick it a part. Great discussion ensued.
You can find Josh's podcast on all major platforms, including Apple Podcasts:
Science Fiction Shorts.
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/stephen_g
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2474979-stephen-gower
Support The Slow Reader by contributing to their tip jar: https...2022-02-181h 00
The Slow Reader2022 PreviewWelcome to the 2022 Preview! Not much in the way of reviews today, but instead I outline my plan for the upcoming year in books for me. Although, I do have ONE review at the end of the show for the Star Trek: The Next Generation tie-in novel, Hearts & Minds by Dayton Ward.
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/stephen_g
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2474979-stephen-gower
Support The Slow Reader by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/slow-reader
Find out more at https://slow-reader.pinecast.co2022-01-1109 min
The Slow ReaderYear End - 2021It's the end of 2021! That means it's time to finish up with the last couple of stories that I read. In this episode, a review of Darktown by Thomas Mullen, A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, and a reading of 2 B R 0 2 B by Kurt Vonnegut, Jr.
"Teleporter" sound effect courtesy of Freesound.org - https://freesound.org/people/blendcache/sounds/379993/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/stephen_g
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2474979-stephen-gower
Blog: https://www.noformatblog.ca
Support The Slow Reader by contributing to their...2021-12-2032 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastMatt Coulton on Jacques LeCoq and the Neutral MaskMatthew (Matt) Coulton is an actor and movement director with a passion for physical theatre.
He trained at Central School of Speech and Drama in Collaborative and Devised Theatre graduating in 2014, and since has been a part of several movement influenced shows and theatre companies. Including Chester Storyhouse, Leicester Curve and BBC TV and Radio.
He's part of projects here in the UK as well as in Sweden with his own theatre company Artistic Rebellion where he acts as co-founder. Most recently the companies' work has been on display at the Varberg Festival in 2019.
2021-12-1658 min
The Hopeful Activists' PodcastWhat next for Climate Action? COP26 and beyond.Amongst the mixed responses to COP26, how do we carry on with action for climate justice and keep hope alive? Abi Thomas and Rich Gower find out.If you would like to look at Emma Major's climate justice art during the programme click here.Thanks so much to all our contributors, in order of appearance:Promise SalawuRenew Our WorldTearfundRachel ManderA RochaFaith for the ClimateYoung Christian Climate NetworkSue WillsherWriting here...2021-11-191h 26
The Slow ReaderThe Only Good IndiansThe Only Good Indians
In this episode I talk about the books I've read since the last episode, when Patrick from the Consume Us podcast joined me to talk about a book we tried to finish by a set deadline (check out Episode 22 for the titles). I also have a more in-depth review of The Only Good Indians by Stephen Graham Jones.
Links to author interviews on Jays From Home:
Andrew Forbes
Jason Love
Books mentioned in this episode:
The Utility of Boredom by Andrew Forbes
Slices of Americana by Jason Love
...2021-11-1016 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastJuna N Joey on Country Music and Musical InspirationsJuna N Joey have a unique country sound that makes their music have a lasting impression on you, and they are bound to do great things.
Having found success at such a young age, Juna N Joey have performed on both sides of the Atlantic, alongside Twinnie, with Nickelodeon and America's Got Talent.
They talk me through their inspirations to be a musician and what they want to achieve in the future.
Furthermore, they treat me to a track from their upcoming EP called Something Good To Miss at the end of the sh...2021-10-2054 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastAdrian Schiller on Arthur Miller's The Crucible and working with Yael FarberAdrian Schiller is an actor with many credits that stand across Film, TV and Theatre to his name. He's worked on video games to Shakespeare, and has a great knowledge of the actor's process and the industry itself.
It was great to talk to him about his role in the astonishing 2014 production of The Crucible, directed by Yael Farber where he played Reverend John Hale.
He discusses Hale's journey across the play, how his beliefs are challenged, and how he feels responsibility to the injustice that occurs in the text. The play written as an...2021-10-091h 00The Uncensored Critic PodcastRose Ryan on Laban, the "Efforts", and the Importance of MovementRose is a movement teacher at GSA (Guildford School of Acting) whose passion for Rudolf Laban's work is unparalleled.
Having trained at the Laban centre, as well as studied MA movement at the Central School of Speech and Drama, she has become fascinated by the vast potential our bodies have in the non-verbal realm, and how we can transform ourselves physically.
She takes me through his "Efforts", the various movement exercises that he asked his actors to engage in to find their emotional and spiritual selves. His work pioneers movement and just how crucial it is to...2021-09-2558 min
The Slow ReaderThe Finish Line - with Patrick from the Consume Us PodcastIn today's episode I am joined by special guest Patrick from the Consume Us podcast. We both read a book we've been pushing to get through and talk about them.
Patrick read Folk Horror: Hours Dreadful and Things Strange by Adam Scovell.
I read The Lost World by Michael Crichton.
We also mentioned a few other books:
The Only Good Indians by Stephen Graham Jones
Green Grass, Running Water by Thomas King
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/stephen_g
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2474979-stephen-gower
...2021-08-2749 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastSabina "Sabs" Netherclift on Jacques LecoqSabina "Sabs" Netherclift is a teaching fellow at GSA with over 20 years of movement experience.
She has worked with many companies including the Young Vic, Central and the English National Opera.
Her primary teaching point at GSA is the work of movement director Jacque Lecoq, having trained with the man himself in Paris.
She schools me on his foundations, the way he worked with his students, and how you can create anything with movement!
Lecoq was devoted to observing the natural world, its elements and movements. He also used masks to st...2021-08-091h 02The Uncensored Critic PodcastStu Goodwin on A Monster Calls and Devised TheatreStu was part of the simply astonishing cast and creative team that put together the spellbinding play A Monster Calls that premiered at the Bristol Old Vic and transferred to the London Old Vic in 2018.
Stu shares with me the process of building a show essentially from scratch, working with Sally Cookson, and how devising needn't be something to be scared of for an actor!
So much covered about the play, devising, and how saying YES to things goes a long way!
Oliver Gower
Spotlight Link: https://www.spotlight.com/9097-9058-52...2021-08-041h 26Fertility ForwardEp 69: A Holistic Approach to Women’s Health with Dr. Anna Barbieri of TārāMDSo much of women’s health is based solely on conventional medicine, leaving little room for other evidence-based methods. Today we talk to Dr. Anna Barbieri who has a passion for truly personalized patient-centered care for women from preventative care to complex gynecologic issues. Dr. Barbieri is a board-certified gynecologist with additional training in integrative medicine. She completed a residency in OB-GYN at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City, where she is now an assistant clinical professor and a member of the Mount Sinai Center of Excellence for Menopause and Integrative Gynecology. Together with Dr. Suzanne Fenske, Dr...2021-07-2934 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastLaura Elphinstone on Chernobyl and Devised TheatreLaura and I worked together on the National Theatre's "My Country; a work in progress" and I feel proud to call her a friend as well as a fellow actor. Laura has vast experiences in theatre, TV, and film, since our time at the National, she has worked on BBC's Des, Line of Duty, and HBO's Chernobyl, and Game of Thrones.
She's also worked at the Bridge Theatre, and another production at the National, Jane Eyre, in collaboration with the Bristol Old Vic.
That's just a small handful of her incredible career to date!
La...2021-07-221h 06Fertility ForwardEp 68: Normalizing Third-Party Reproduction and Adoption with Lori Metz, LCSW, CCM, BC-TMHEvery child will eventually ask the question, “Where do babies come from?” Your answer will have a lasting impact on the way they think about what it means to be part of a family, especially if they were adopted or conceived with a donated sperm or egg, also known as third-party reproduction. Today’s guest believes that compassion, love, and honesty are critical in helping families come to greater acceptance, understanding, and celebration of their journey with third-party family building. Lori Metz is a psychotherapist, licensed clinical social worker, certified case manager, and a Board Certified TeleMental Health Provider, as wel...2021-07-2235 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastBen Furey on Voice, Dialects, and working on BroadwayBen Furey is voice and dialect coach currently teaching at the Guildford School of Acting (GSA).
His credentials include working with actors of all ages in the USA and UK, coaching them on accents, vocal ability, and engagement with text.
He has taught children in Matilda to speak Russian, and young American actors in Billy Elliot to speak with a Geordie accent! As well as coaching an actress to safely scream eight times a week!
It was so interesting to hear Ben talk about his experience on both sides of the Atlantic, the s...2021-07-171h 04
The Slow ReaderThe Slow Reader at the MoviesEpisode Description
In today's Slow Reader episode, it's not about books - it's a bonus episode about movies! I recently watched The Rock, Dr. No, and From Russia With Love.
You can view my Letterboxd profile if you want to see more of my movie reviews - there aren't many.
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/stephen_g
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2474979-stephen-gower
Blog: https://www.noformatblog.ca
Support The Slow Reader by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/slow-reader
2021-07-1507 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastHannah Couzens on Photography and Capturing the MomentHannah is a multi-award winning photographer based in St. Albans, Hertfordshire, and she talks me through the various elements of photography in its various forms.
She has a wealth of experience from qualifying into The British Institute of Photography at 19 years of age to being in the running to win the National Business Women's award in 2019.
She has shot all over the world, working with actors, athletes and everyone in between. She talks about her inspiration and her obsession with light and how it helps to paint a picture without a canvas or an easel, bu...2021-06-231h 03The Uncensored Critic PodcastAlex Sedgley Talent Agent Curtis BrownSomething slightly different in this episode, I was on a zoom call with the lovely Alex Sedgley from agency Curtis Brown who represent people such as Stanley Tucci and Daniel Mays.
She answers questions and gives advice on how to contact agents to get representation, and how to work with one when you get signed up.
Credit to Casting Connections for organising this call, and for allowing me to upload the recording.
Apologies for the sound quality throughout the episode.
Oliver Gower
SPOTLIGHT PIN: 9097-9058-5261...2021-06-141h 54
The Uncensored Critic PodcastAshten York on Performance Inspiration, Singing, and Passion to be a PerformerAshten is a singer, actress, and dancer, she graduated from the Guildford School of Acting in 2017 with a BA in Musical Theatre. Since her graduation she has started her own singing business Ashten York Singing which you can find on Instagram and her website, links to her pages are below.
She also has toured around Europe as a member of the performance crew onboard Viking cruises, and currently she is embarking on her second tour with the company, where she will premiere her new one woman show, comprised of songs that have touched her heart. I know f...2021-06-1159 minThe Uncensored Critic PodcastChristian Patterson on Acting and Working at the National TheatreChristian and I both worked together at the National Theatre on a piece called "My Country; a work in progress", a verbatim play that centred around the result of the EU referendum of 2016 under the guidance of Rufus Norris, and Poet Laureate, at the time, Carol Ann Duffy. An experience that both of us treasure to this very day.
It was a genuine pleasure to hear Christian's stories about his early life and work, to the challenges of working as an actor, and working at the National Theatre by my side.
Oliver Gower
Sp...2021-05-141h 17The Uncensored Critic PodcastDavid Barnett on BrechtDavid Barnett is currently Professor of Drama at the University of York.
David's primary research point is the work of Brecht, and the Berliner Ensemble, he has written countless journal entries and articles about the foundations of Brecht's practice.
Telling the reader, performer, and director, how you can apply them to a production, and for that matter, any existing play, and come up with a different angle depending upon the social contradictions that are hiding beneath the surface.
We talk about three foundations of Brecht's work, GESTUS, HALTUNG, and, VERFREMDUNG.
This con...2021-04-301h 15The Uncensored Critic PodcastSimon Furness on Anton Chekhov's Uncle VanyaSimon is an actor and Chekhov specialist.
We talk everything from Simon's earliest memories of Chekhov at drama school, to discussing Chekhov's yin-yang approach to life as a man of science, yet has a spiritual attachment to him at the same time.
We discuss Anton Chekhov's Uncle Vanya, and how Chekhov's influence was very much with us during the pandemic, and how he can capture life's humorous moments, even in the darkest of times.
Both these things and everything in between makes Chekhov one of the most celebrated playwrights of our age.
Ol...2021-04-131h 12
The Uncensored Critic PodcastHarry Burton on Harold PinterWelcome to The Uncensored Critic Podcast!
Thank you so much for tuning in and listening to my show.
For my first episode I had the pleasure of talking to long-term collaborator, and friend of Harold Pinter, Harry Burton.
We discuss everything from Pinter's early years growing up in Hackney, living through post-WW2 London, to finding out the best way to tackle Pinter's work in performance.
We take a close look at "The Caretaker", first performed in 1960, tells the story of Aston, recovering from electric shock therapy, who brings a random tramp ho...2021-04-021h 21
The Slow ReaderGladiator-At-Law and Louis RielFirst official episode of 2021; in this episode I talk about books that I read so far this year, including reviews for Gladiator-At-Law (Frederick Pohl & C.M. Kornbluth) and Louis Riel (Chester Brown). No plans for upcoming books just yet!
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/stephen_g
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2474979-stephen-gower
Support The Slow Reader by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/slow-reader
Find out more at https://slow-reader.pinecast.co2021-03-0907 min
Jays From HomeIntroductionsEpisode Notes
Introducing Jays From Home, a new casual fan podcast hosted by Matt & Steve Gower. In the introductory episode, we explain the concept of the show, and talk about Toronto Blue Jays, baseball, and our personal lives around the three true outcomes of the sport:
Home Runs
Walks
Strike-Outs2021-02-2845 minFertility ForwardEp 46: 2020 Recap with Rena Gower and Dara GodfreyWelcome to this mini-episode of the Fertility Forward Podcast where, today, it’s just your hosts, Rena Gower and Dara Godfrey. Listen in as they debrief on the biggest topic of 2020 – the COVID-19 pandemic – and share some of their hopes for 2021. Find out what Rena and Dara’s experience of the pandemic has been like, including recording via Zoom rather than at the studio, having less time for self-care, and missing human connection, and hear how they have both been coping with these challenges. While this past year hasn’t been easy for anyone, there are also some silver linings, i...2021-01-2131 minThe Slow ReaderNew Year New BooksNew year, new books!
A quick episode to take a short look at the year that was (2020) and what I'm looking ahead to the year that is (2021).
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/stephen_g
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2474979-stephen-gower
Support The Slow Reader by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/slow-reader
Find out more at https://slow-reader.pinecast.co2021-01-1803 minFertility ForwardEp 40: How to Overcome Stress For the HolidaysGoing through infertility treatment is already a stressful experience for many patients and, at the time of a global pandemic, the emotional burden is likely even more difficult. In today’s episode, host Rena Gower is joined by Dara Godfrey, nutritionist and Registered Dietician at RMA New York, and Dr. Kimberley Thornton, a reproductive endocrinologist at RMA New York, who share their perspectives on overcoming the upcoming holiday stress brought on by infertility and COVID-19. Listen in as the panel discusses some coping mechanisms for this stressful time, including having a pre-prepared cocktail conversation response, just saying no, and be...2020-12-0349 minFertility ForwardEp 39: Hope and Healing: The Infertility JourneyIn the next installment of the Hope and Healing panel, host Rena Gower is joined by three guests, who each bring their unique experience and share their perspectives on the infertility journey. We welcome back Dr. Lucky Sekhon, a reproductive endocrinologist at RMA, and we also hear from Ariel Schnur, a fertility nurse at RMS, and Rachel Rachel Hess, who provides a patient perspective. Find out about the pros and cons of procedures like IUI and IVF, why the waiting game is the most emotional part of the process, and why not every retrieved egg is useful. The panel...2020-11-251h 01
The Slow ReaderHeroin Diaries and Paper TownsIn this episode I review The Heroin Diaries and Paper Towns. I also talk about starting to re-read Harry Potter & The Prisoner of Azkaban and Ready Player One (in advance of November 24 when Ready Player Two is released).
I highly recommend following along with the podcast 372 Pages We'll Never Get Back for both Ready Player One and Ready Player Two.
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/stephen_g
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2474979-stephen-gower
Support The Slow Reader by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/slow-reader2020-11-0710 minFertility ForwardEp 37: Hope and Healing: Conversations on Pregnancy and Infant LossToday your host Rena Gower is joined by three guests who each bring their unique experience and perspective on the topic of pregnancy and infant loss. We have Dr. Lucky Sekhon, a reproductive endocrinologist at RMA, Nancy Berlow, a social worker who has her own practice and is a consultant for a pregnancy loss support group, and Jennifer Browder, an inspiring woman who shares her story. Listeners can expect to learn about this topic from medical, mental health, and patient perspectives, giving them a well-rounded idea of what families go through who have suffered a miscarriage or lost a...2020-10-2958 minGrains Matter ChatterEpisode 19 - Grain Market UpdateThis week on Grains Matter Chatter we talk about a really exciting new harvest premium on at North Gower Grains. Also give an update on the markets and talk about prices that keep climbing. Harvest is full tilt ahead it really is an exciting time of year. Happy harvest everyone! Stay health and safe. If you'd like to take advantage of the premium and great prices give us a call!Office: 613-489-0956Geoff Guy: 613-880-2707Bob Orr: 613-720-1271Delores Foster: 613-880-74582020-10-2409 min
The Slow ReaderThe Ever-Growing PileIn The Ever-Growing Pile, I talk about the problem I have with my "to-read" shelf and how it keeps growing. I also review Red Rising by Pierce Brown and The Magicians by Lev Grossman.
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/stephen_g
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/2474979-stephen-gower
Alternative Airwaves: https://www.alternativeairwaves.com
21 to Go: https://21-to-go.pinecast.co
Support The Slow Reader by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/slow-reader
Find out more at https://slow-reader.pinecast.co2020-10-2208 min
The Slow ReaderJurassic Park ReviewWelcome back to The Slow Reader! Quite an update this time around. New this episode are some time markers if you want to jump around and listen to specific parts. No intro music this time - didn't have anything I felt fit the episode.
00:42 - What have I read since March 31?
03:55 - What am I currently reading?
05:03 - Jurassic Park Review
07:08 - What's Next?
08:07 - Wrap-Up
Books mentioned in the podcast:
George Lucas Life Magazine Bio
Spock, Messiah!
One Good Reason: A Memoir of Addiction and Recovery, Music and Love
Magic Time
For Your...2020-08-0408 minThe Hopeful Activists' PodcastLockdown LessonsHUGE thanks to Dr J for allowing us to use his music on this episode. It's all taken from his album Journey, which is available athttps://drjpresents.bandcamp.comnow stop reading this and go and buy it!Thank you so much to Dr J, Rachel Mander, Alison Dennis, Danielle Wilson, Sophie Gower and Sam Ward for sharing your lockdown lessons with us.Tracks used: Leaving Orphanhood Behind, Belong, Night Fall.2020-07-3116 minGrains Matter ChatterEpisode 5 - Grain Market Update & Crop TalkEpisode 5 of Grains Matter Chatter presented by North Gower Grains. This weeks episode is hosted by Geoffrey Guy and Delores Foster, Grain Merchandisers at North Gower Grains. Warm welcome our very first special guest, Chris Olbach, Pioneer's Agronomist Rep for Eastern Ontario. Chris talks about what he is seeing in the fields around the country side and what should be top of mind for crop farmers this time of year. Weekly market update and debrief on the newly released USDA monthly stocks report. Along with an update on what's going on at NGG this week. 2020-07-1020 min