Shows
The SillPodcast Episodes will Resume in September 2024The Sill has had a near seven year run, having posted 229 consecutive episodes without interruption, since July 10, 2017, and Harry and I have decided to take a production break. There will be no more new 'The Sill' podcast episodes added from May 6, 2024 to September 3, 2024.We will continue to post references to our existing 229 episode archive, covering an eclectic mix of episodes under 9 separate categories… All of this, and more, will remain available on The Sill website: https://thesillpodcast.comWe appreciate and welcome your ongoing feedback and support and we’ll keep you informed of any changes or u...
2024-05-1902 minThe SillTSP228 - Hernia Chronicles: Stories of Repair, Recovery, and ResilienceOne in four men will have to deal with a hernia in their lifetime. Peter and Harry have a phone discussion about their respective inguinal hernias and compare their private versus public care experiences in Ontario, Canada: Peter at the Shouldice Hospital, Harry at a public hospital. SPECIAL NOTE: While private hospitals are not allowed under Ontario's Private Hospitals Act, Shouldice Hospital is one of seven private hospitals in the province grandfathered under the Act. The hospital has been continuously family run from its inception but is partially publicly funded.Shouldice Hospital - https...
2024-05-0531 minThe SillTSP227 - My Chess Memoir: Kyle CreamerIt’s an open secret that Peter’s co-host Harry is obsessed with the game of chess, as is The Sill’s interview guest, Kyle Creamer, who harry met at the Bluenose Open chess tournament in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Kyle’s first published book chronicles his journey towards the title of Grandmaster.Kyle Creamer - https://kylecreamerauthor.comDuration: 37:07Credit: Kyle Creamer reads an excerpt from his book ‘My Chess Memoir” and movie segment from ‘The Life Of A King’.Posted: April 21, 2024HighlightsStrategic elements of the game of chessExperiences...
2024-04-2137 minThe SillTSP226 - A Defence of Poetry in the Digital AgeFollowing Harry’s recent talk at Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, Peter reached out to him by phone to discuss the highlights of the presentation and celebrate the release of Harry’s latest poetry book titled ‘Fractures’.Duration: 27:23Credit: YouTube Segment with Mary Oliver - Wild GeesePosted: April 7, 2024HighlightsHarry discusses his poetry and latest book release "Fractures"Peter engages in a conversation with Harry about the relevance of poetry in the digital age and the process of self-publishingHarry shares insights on poetry, self-publishing, and the importance of poetry in moder...
2024-04-0727 minThe SillTSP222 - Relevant Voices ReturnIn acknowledgement of the exponential growth of podcast listeners around the world, The Sill presents a montage of episode segments for those of you who are new to our podcast. This episode includes excerpts from some of our past ‘Planetary Postcards’ and ‘The Undefinable Spirit’ interviews. The complete episodes of the included interviewees, in sequential order: 1. TSP064 - The Undefinable Spirit: Dr. Claudia Six on her book, Erotic Integrity.2. TSP081 - The Undefinable Spirit: Re-imagining Architecture with Robert Arnone.3. TSP096 - The Undefinable Spirit: Drew Marshall, a red letter agnostic theist.4...
2024-02-1137 min
The SillTSP219 - Exit Stage Left: Good leavings. (TSP031 Revised)Last rights, or last rites? Before the curtain is drawn, somber or joyful, which would you choose?Duration: 25:18Posted: December 31, 2023Highlights:* Preferences for own funerals and ways to celebrate life and honour the deceased* Personal experiences with funerals, including those of family members* Harry's desire to be cremated and have his ashes spread under an oak tree* Celebrating life instead of tear-filled ceremonies and sadness at funerals* Pre-funeral funerals and involving the person while they are still alive* Peter's experience with his father's funeral and breaking with...
2023-12-3125 min
The SillTSP204 - Rising Tides of DiscontentMuch of what we take for granted in the affluent West is a direct result or consequence of the impulse to protest injustices and other forms of oppression. There are more ways than ever, in the modern world, to express and actualize our discontent. From the use of social media to creating a podcast to approaching a local politician, protest, both individual and group, continues to be a powerful agent for change.Duration - 32:30Credits: YouTube Segment with Peter Finch from the movie NetworkPosted: June 4, 2023
2023-06-0432 min
The SillTSP200 - PH Factor: Flying Loose - The Sill lands on 200.In this milestone - 200th episode of The Sill, hosts Peter and Harry mine the audio landscape created over the last six years. Favourite episodes, experiences gained and lessons learned, we share the joys and challenges of producing more than one hundred hours of varied and thoughtful content.Duration - 31:13Posted: April 9, 2023
2023-04-0931 min
The SillTSP182 - PH Factor: Hit The Road Jack - The Covid Catalyst MigrationsCovid induced social distancing protocols and affordability issues have been instrumental in driving Canadians into smaller towns and cottage country, where larger living spaces are available. Working and studying from home has become a reality for many, and one that few wish to give up. Co-host Harry Posner and his partner have joined the ranks of Canadians in this rapidly growing segment.Duration: 39:23Featuring: Kaitlan Klein of Century 21 Millennium Inc. Real Estate in Brampton, OntarioPosted: July 31, 2022
2022-07-3139 min
The SillTSP180 - PH Factor: The Sill 2017-2022 - Oh, the changes we’ve seen!Five years in, The Sill podcast is turning a corner in more ways than one. For starters, Harry and his family are relocating to the beautiful Annapolis Valley of Nova Scotia. In this nostalgic review Peter and Harry recall the beginnings, the evolutionary process, and reflect on their respective personal experience of producing the podcast. Duration: 36:12Posted: July 3, 2022
2022-07-0336 min
The SillTSP161 - PH Factor: Corroding Connections - Are we heading into a societal meltdown?Perhaps even more important than the physical challenge of Covid-19 is the impact brought on by the increasing divisiveness evident in communities, small and large. Do we have enough energy and goodwill left to avoid the potential for a social Chernobyl?Duration - 38:25Credits: Harry Posner - ‘Prayer For Healing’ Brown eyes and blue eyes Racism experiment Children Session - Jane Elliotthttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGvoXeXCoUY Jane Elliott on her "Blue Eyes/Brown Eyes Exercise" and Fighting Racism https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2z-ahJ4uws the famous experiment with sc...
2021-10-1038 min
The SillTSP157 - PH Factor: Citizen Engaged - Challenging the status quo.Co-host Harry Posner shares his motivation and experience from a recent World Freedom rally and march held in Toronto on July 24, 2021. Challenged by co-host Peter Noce to elaborate, the conversation spirals outward to include the many varied layers embedded in, and as a result of, the Covid crisis.Explicit Content (only one word in the entire podcast)Duration - 36:09
2021-08-1536 min
The SillTSP153 - Planetary Postcards: Pietro Noce - Bed & Bike in Southern ItalyPietro Noce, first cousin of co-host Peter Noce is the proprietor B & B "La Meridiana" - Bed & Bike in Celico, Calabria. In this first foray into globetrotting, The Sill connects us to the cultural life and realities of living in and running a business in a small southern Italian town. B & B " La Meridiana" on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bedandbikeinsilaDuration - 49:28
2021-06-2049 min
The SillTSP132 - Time Trek: Pasteurization - Don’t cry over ‘spoilt’ milk.The invisible universe of the biome became more visible through the work of many 19th century scientific researchers. One of the preeminent adventurers into the microbial world, Louis Pasteur unveiled the essential role micro-organisms play in the healthy functioning of our ecosystems. Famous for the process of pasteurization, Pasteur was also instrumental in breaking new ground in the vaccine and hygiene domains.Duration - 35:52YouTube excerpts with comic Orny Adams - ‘I Was Raised on Germs’ & comic George Carlin - ‘Fear of Germs’
2020-08-3035 min
The SillTSP131 - The Undefinable Spirit: Janet-Lynn Morrison - From 0 to fierce.If there was ever an example of how a world view can impact one’s life, Janet-Lynn Morrison is one. Understanding, forgiveness and resiliency resonate throughout our phone conversation with this intelligent and caring soul. Her story of moving ‘from 0 to fierce’ is compelling and inspirational. Janet-Lynn Morrison: https://www.janet-lynn.comDuration - 45:21Book Link: Million Dollar Soup - https://www.janet-lynn.com/the-million-dollar-soup/
2020-08-1645 min
The SillTSP130 - PH Factor: Every Breath You Take - The body politic.Is it even possible anymore, that human beings can communicate with each other, directly and authentically, given the pandemic of politicization? The challenge to defy categorization is paramount in our attempt to resist the ‘isms’ that have engulfed us. Duration - 48:52Two additional YouTube segments featuring Esther Perel on ‘The communication error we all make, and how it intensifies conflict’
2020-08-0248 min
The SillTSP129 - Time Trek: F’ Me, F’ You - The history of pejoratives.The history of pejoratives touches on religion, social mores and political correctness, vividly expressing strong emotions or sentiments. The use of swear words was well accepted up until the Renaissance, after which these so-called ‘dirty’ words became ostracized, litigated, and otherwise suppressed. EXPLICIT CONTENTDuration - 35:04Additional YouTube segment featuring swear words in different languages.
2020-07-1935 min
The SillTSP128 - The Undefinable Spirit: Nicole Wicki - Courage, conviction and cure.Numerous times in her young life, Nicole Wicki, has had the courage to make life changing decisions en route to making a life more connected to nature, balancing body and mind. Swiss born and raised, she currently makes her home on a remote 10 acre farm on ‘Te Waipounamu’ (Maori name for New Zealand’s South Island), striving to live off the grid, while embracing a healthier lifestyle. Nicole Wicki: http://www.wickiwell.comDuration - 27:32Additional segment featuring interviewee Nicole Wicki, with the second segment featuring New Zealand’ s Current Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern.
2020-07-0527 min
The SillTSP127 - PH Factor: It’s A DIY World - Peggy Lee’s Delicious LipsDo-it-yourself, on the surface a new fad propelled by the COVID crisis, is in fact an age old go to and accepted MO throughout human history. Using the creation of a DIY audiobook - Peggy Lee’s Delicious Lips - as an example, we talk about the process from A to Z.Duration - 34:12Segment with author Harry Posner narrating a section from his newly released audiobook, Peggy Lee’s Delicious Lips
2020-06-2134 min
The SillTSP126 - The Undefinable Spirit: Dr. Claudia Six returns to talk about relationships and sex during COVID-19.In our second interview with Dr. Six we explore changes to relationships in the face of a global pandemic. Surprisingly, when it comes to the world of our primal instincts, our sexual life has remained for the most part remained unchanged during this period of personal and social upheaval. Claudia Six: http://www.drsix.netDuration - 27:12
2020-06-0727 min
The SillTSP125 - PH Factor: Necessity is the mother.During the mother of all crises, another mother is stepping up to give birth to a plethora of creative responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. Not surprising, in light of other historical upheavals, out of which emerged new and unique technologies and approaches to problem solving.Duration - 36:14VoxBox: YouTube segment - Family invents ‘Hug Glove’ so they can cuddle their Grandma on Mother’s Day.
2020-05-2436 min
The SillTSP124 - The Undefinable Spirit: Sandy Brown, citizen first, Mayor second.A down to earth conversation with the Mayor of Orangeville, a small town in Southern Ontario Canada, as the community responds to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. From Zoom coffee chats to encouraging support for small business, Mayor Sandy Brown offers a very candid and grounded perspective. Mayor Sandy Brown: https://www.orangeville.ca/council-1/members-of-council/sandy-brown-mayorDuration - 34:22VoxBox: YouTube segment - 'My Corona' by Chris Mann
2020-05-1034 min
The SillTSP123 - Time Trek: What a difference a year makes.We hop in our time machine and come out Sept 11, 2021, a year after the all clear was given on the COVID-19 Pandemic and we have witnessed numerous changes for the better, and some for the worse. From the micro to the macro, we’ve undergone a variety of transformations on a scale previously unimagined.Duration - 30:53VoxBox: YouTube Segment - Corona Lockdown! Can Anything Positive Come From This? with Russell Brand
2020-04-2630 min
The SillTSP122 - PH Factor: COVID-19 - What is a life worth?At the time of this podcast, the number of global COVID-19 cases has eclipsed the 1,000,000 mark with over 50,000 deaths. We are confronting an unparalleled firestorm of ethical and moral dilemmas, in the face of mushrooming economic turmoil. Over 3 days, and from a distance, these issues and more, inform a time-lapse dialogue.Duration - 1:05:21Featuring author Andrew Welch, “Save the people, save all of the people, and we’ll save the economy - Hammer vs. Paint Roller” https://thevaluecrisis.blogspot.com
2020-04-121h 05
The SillTSP121 - PH Factor: COVID-19, tragedy or opportunity?The COVID-19 is proving transformational on a level that has not been seen since 911. Could this be a pivotal paradigm shift in the way we treat each other and all life forms on the planet?Duration - 47:28Poems by: Harry Posner - Ode To A Virus - written on January 29, 2020 & Father Richard Henrick, OFM - Lockdown - March 13, 2020Music by: Erin Bolton - erinboltonmusic.com - 'World Speaking' and 'Quarantine'
2020-03-3047 minThe SillTSP120 - Time Trek: Hagia Sophia - Church of the holy wisdom.For almost fifteen hundred years, the largest basilica in the world, Hagia Sophia, was at the spiritual centre of both the Christian and Muslim worlds. An architectural wonder, it inspired builders and designers of sacred spaces for centuries.Duration - 23:12Credit: NPR excerpt on 'The Sound of The Hagia Sophia, More Than 500 Years Ago.' Highlights:Architectural features of the Hagia SophiaTransformation of the Hagia Sophia from a church to a mosqueHistorical and cultural significance of the Hagia SophiaAcoustic engineering of the Hagia SophiaUse of technology to explore the buildingSignificance of the...
2020-03-1623 min
The SillTSP119 - The Undefinable Spirit: Sohayla Smith’s peace of the heart.Singer songwriter, music therapist, belly dancer and more, Sohayla shares her very human approach to art and community. Sohayla Smith: http://www.sohaylasmith.comDuration - 24:29VoxBox: Sohayla Smith’s - For A Moment and Oh The Day Medley
2020-03-0224 min
The SillTSP118 - PH Factor: Hurry up and wait.We spend an average of 5 years waiting in lines and queues during our lifetime. Is waiting a waste of time, or can we alter our perspective about these (commonly) anxiety-making situations?Duration - 33:11VoxBox: Harry Posner - "Wait for it.”
2020-02-1733 min
The SillTSP117 - Time Trek: Paradise or infogedden?An exploration into the evolution of information gathering, its historical milestones, including moral and ethical implications for the human condition. From Tesla to Turing and beyond, does the expanding data highway offer us more unprecedented challenges than benefits?Duration - 36:49VoxBox: You Tube excerpts from 1970 - IBM Vintage Computers Promo Film - Historical Data Processing and The Myths of Big Data/Science Comedian Vince Ebert
2020-02-0336 min
The SillTSP116 - The Undefinable Spirit: Richard Mongiat and the big picture.On the heels of the last podcast, between dog and wolf, inspired by a painting (Entre Chien et Loup) of the same name, the hosts discuss all things art with painter Richard Mongiat, whose focus and range of activities elevate him beyond the typical one note artist. Richard Mongiat: https://www.richardmongiat.comDuration - 40:47VoxBox: CBC digital archives - Excerpt from ‘Gallery patrons shocked by Prent sculptures’ - Broadcast March 12, 1973
2020-01-2040 min
The SillTSP115 - PH Factor: Between dog and wolf.The balancing act of our primal instincts versus our domestic existence from children’s stories to the world of cinema, from Paganism to Christianity, the symbol of the wolf has been a central theme, painted in both a positive and negative light.Duration - 22:26VoxBox: Audiobook excerpt from White Fang, by Jack London - DBS Audio Books
2020-01-0622 min
The SillTSP114 - Time Trek: Inside The Pod - Where to, from here?A look at the future of podcasting and its relevance as just another media platform, among many that have been or will be absorbed by the ‘big boys’. The hosts, Peter and Harry, discuss the joys, challenges and purpose of the Sill podcast and its ‘limitless’ possibilities.Duration - 26:28Opening Segment: Beau York on Ted Talks - The Power of PodcastingVoxBox: Excerpt from The BBC Academy Podcast - Podcastology episode six: Future directions
2019-12-2326 min
The SillTSP113 - PH Factor: Hunger Reigns - Feast, famine and faith.Nearly a billion people in the world experience hunger, while nearly a billion are obese. Like many challenges confronting society in today’s world the issue is not availability, it is excessive waste and distribution. Our collective hunger and survival is not limited to food. From fasting to spiritual searching, and everything in between, our quest for ‘nourishment’ comes in many forms.Duration - 28:50Included Segment: Harry Posner recites his poem ‘We Of The Full’
2019-12-0928 min
The SillTSP112 - Transcendent Tunes: Harry Chapin’s shot to the heart.Harry Chapin left us too soon, but he left us with compelling stories reflecting the era he lived in. Although not one of his most well known hits, Sniper, is perhaps his most eloquent, timeless comment on humankind’s fragile psyche.Duration - 29:43VoxBox: YouTube - Harry Chapin questions and answers (Soundstage)Music Credit: Harry Chapin - Sniper & Cats In The Cradle.
2019-11-2529 min
The SillTSP111 - Time Trek: Sapien Signatures - Traces of us.Kilroy was here. The urge to leave our stamp on history seems to be inherent to the nature of homo sapiens. Stepping into the past at a local museum, provides the hosts a context for examining our obsession with legacy. Museum of Dufferin (MOD): https://dufferinmuseum.comDuration - 38:10VoxBox: YouTube PBS interview on ‘Internet history is fragile. This archive is making sure it doesn’t disappear’Music Credit: Al Stewart - Time Passages
2019-11-1138 min
The SillTSP110 - PH Factor: Branding - Look at me, I’m relevant.From the personal to the political, from products to corporate identity, the rise of branding as a way of creating and maintaining relevance is understandable in a world that encourages hubris.Duration - 23:46VoxBox: YouTube interview with Yuval HarariMusic Credit: k. d. Lang - Constant Craving
2019-10-2823 min
The SillTSP109 - Transcendent Tunes: Non, Je Ne Regret Rien - The little sparrow’s anthem.No other singer has as powerfully embodied their music as did Edith Piaf. Rising from her hard scrabbled life, spanning two world wars, she sang her way to international stardom, until her untimely death at 47.Duration - 26:32VoxBox: YouTube interview on Je Ne Regret RienMusic Credit: Edith Piaf - Je Ne Regret Rien
2019-10-1426 min
The SillTSP108 - The Undefinable Spirit: Stefan Wiesen - Painting the world green.Dufferin - Caledon federal Green Party candidate Stefan Wiesen says, quote, “We must take a holistic approach to build a modern state that leaves nobody behind.” His obvious passion and commitment for the environment and people is evident in his clear-headed and grounded approach to the issues we all face.Duration - 35:21VoxBox: On YouTube, 2 clips from ‘This Hour Has 22 minutes’ Music Credit: Louie Armstrong - Wonderful World
2019-09-3035 minThe SillTSP107 - Time Trek: The Yo-Yo - Spinnin’ wheel got to go round.Surprisingly, the modern toy called the Yo-yo has a long venerable history. From ancient China, to Napoleon’s France, to Richard Nixon at the Grand Ole Opry, this toy for all ages continues to fascinate and entertain.Duration - 22:03VoxBox: On YouTube, Doctor Lucky Meisenheimer - Inside The World’s Biggest YoYo CollectionMusic Credit: Blood, Sweat & Tears - Spinning Wheel
2019-09-1622 minThe SillTSP106 - The Undefinable Spirit: Michael McCreary - Punching up, never down.Brampton born and Orangeville raised Michael McCreary is an ‘aspie’ of a different colour. With a mind as agile as a whippet, Michael navigates his life with humour and humility, bestowing on us a deeper understanding of what it means to be autistic.Michael McCreary: https://www.aspiecomic.comDuration - 35:48VoxBox: Compilation of Michael McCreary bits and clipsMusic Credit: Isley Brothers - It’s Your Thing
2019-09-0235 minThe SillTSP105 - PH Factor: Freezing footprints.The impulse to archive has been aided and abetted by the exponential advance in recording technologies, which begs the question: What have we sacrificed in pursuit of our never ending desire to preserve memories?Duration - 24:06VoxBox: YouTube segment with comedian Norm MacDonald on the Evolution of PhotographyMusic Credit: Fastball - G.O.D. (Good Old Days)
2019-08-1924 minThe SillTSP104 - Digging Words: CONSERVATISM - Trapped in amber.The nature of conservatism is more complicated than current polarized thinking would suggest. From its political beginnings after the French Revolution to populist America and Britain, the impulse to remain true to inherited tradition is both a stabilizing force and one prone to ossification.Duration - 35:19VoxBox: Rowan Atkinson - excerpt from Conservative Conference on YouTubeMusic Credit: The Kinks - Well Respected Man
2019-08-0535 minThe SillTSP103 - Transcendent Tunes: Woody and Arlo on the ‘rails’.Woody Guthrie’s ‘This Land Is Your Land’ and his son, Arlo Guthrie’s ‘City Of New Orleans (written by the under appreciated Steve Goodman) can be considered anthems of a nation. The first being a response to the status quo - ‘God Bless America’ and the second an homage to life on the rails.Duration - 33:02VoxBox: Compilation of various artists performing ‘This Land Is Your Land’ and the ‘City Of New Orleans’Music Credit: Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings - This Land Is Your Land & Arlo Guthrie - The City Of New Orleans
2019-07-2233 minThe SillTSP102 - Time Trek: Encoding, foreboding?Starting with Morse code in the mid 19th century the beginnings of encoding technology eventually evolved into the ubiquitous use of barcodes today. This mini revolution has ramifications well beyond retail convenience and routine record keeping. Duration - 24:44VoxBox: YouTube segment with comedian James May rambling about barcodes and supermarketsMusic Credit: The Five Americans - Western Union
2019-07-0824 minThe SillTSP101 - The Undefinable Spirit: Andrea Bird - Dancing on the curve of life.Accomplished artist Andrea Bird connects art to love and death. Her theme of ‘holding loosely’ infuses Andrea’s work and positive world view. Andrea Bird: http://andreabird.comDuration - 30:22VoxBox: William Shatner - from the CD ‘Has Been’Music Credit: Belle Starr - This Must Be The Place
2019-06-2430 minThe SillTSP100 - PH Factor: The little ‘cast’ that could!Our special celebratory milestone moment where we reminisce across 2 years of podcasting and what led up to it. Our conversation includes podcast excerpts, special moments, joys and challenges along the way.Duration - 38:13VoxBox: Compilation of interview snippets from our ‘Undefinable Spirit’ series of podcastsMusic Credit: John Denver - The Little Engine That Could
2019-06-1038 minThe SillTSP099 - Transcendent Tunes: Yesterday, it was scrambled eggs.A Lennon/McCartney classic covered by more artists than any other song in music history. A simple sentiment turned musical treasure, cherished by young and old.Duration - 21:06VoxBox: Youtube audio segment of video with Paul McCartney in live performance singing Yesterday, spliced together with another Youtube audio segment of Daffy Duck’s partial version of YesterdayMusic Credit: Beatles - Yesterday
2019-06-0421 minThe SillTSP098 - Time Trek: Optics, near and far.Man’s quest to explore beyond the limits of the senses led to the evolution of optical theory and eventual development of telescopic and microscopic devices. Enhancing our vision, both outer and inner, profoundly changed our perspective of our universes, large and small.Duration - 26:41VoxBox: Youtube segment on the ‘Life of Galileo Brecht’Music Credit: Joni Mitchell - Woodstock
2019-05-2726 minThe SillTSP097 - Digging Words: PORTMANTEAU - Two’s company.Packing more into less is the basis for the creation of portmanteau words. From motel to hazmet to liger and beyond, these linguistically blended words, pro or con, have become part of our lexicon.Duration - 28:31VoxBox: Youtube segment featuring Norm Crosby on the Dean Martin ShowMusic Credit: Men At Work - People Just Love To Play With Words
2019-05-2028 minThe SillTSP096 - The Undefinable Spirit: Drew Marshall, a red letter agnostic theist.Inveterate seeker, Drew Marshall talks about his quest for truth on God, life, death, and faith. Among other self discoveries made during his journey, which has included living in Australia, the deserts of Israel and walking the El Camino trail in Spain, he talks to us how ‘doubt’ can be an integral and useful tool in discovering your spiritual path.Duration - 26:05VoxBox: Youtube segment with Rowan Atkinson telling the ‘Gospel of John’ Music Credit: Bruce Cockburn - The Soul Of A Man
2019-05-1326 minThe SillTSP095 - Transcendent Tunes: Cole Porter’s Begin The Beguine.A signature of the big band era, Begin The Beguine, exemplifies the versatility of Swing music. The lyrics embody the joy of a sudden but temporary love, the melody of which was made famous by one of the greatest big band leaders, Artie Shaw.Duration - 21:06VoxBox: various artists' renditions of Begin The Beguine, featuring Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Mario Lanza, Ella Fitzgerald, Eve Becke, Pete Townsend and Juglio Iglesias.Music Credit: Artie Shaw - Begin The Beguine.
2019-05-0621 minThe SillTSP094 - PH Factor: Notre Dame, the unmaking of history.The tragic fire at Notre Dame de Paris on the 15th of April, 2019, sparked a slew of social, political, and religious reactions. 850 years of history gone up in flames, provides the backdrop for a lively discussion about this historic event.Duration - 29:32VoxBox: Harry Posner quoting Victor Hugo and Youtube audio segment from the movie The Hunchback of Notre DameMusic Credit: Edith Piaf - Notre Dame de Paris
2019-04-2929 minThe SillTSP093 - Time Trek: Podcasting, birth and beckoning.15 years into the podcasting evolution has seen an exponential rise in both programming and popularity, not the least of which is due to the rise and constant upgrading of smartphone technology, as well as corporate interest and acquisitions.Duration - 27:38VoxBox: Youtube segment from Saturday Night Live (SNL) radio interview with Alec Baldwin - Schweddy balls.Music Credit: David Foster - You’re The Voice
2019-04-2227 minThe SillTSP092 - Digging Words: BUT - Au Contraire.One of the unsung workhorses of the English language, the word ‘but’ is frequently overused. 'But', this seemingly insignificant three letter word packs a whole lot of punch. Duration - 20:55VoxBox: Harry Posner - Ode To ButMusic Credit: Lewcinda Williams - Everything But The Truth
2019-04-1520 minThe SillTSP091 - The Undefinable Spirit: Donna McCaw, Elora’s creative dynamo.Teacher, actor, traveler, activist Donna McCaw shares her passion for creativity, community, and the simple joys of having fun. From poetry to saving our water, she demonstrates compassion and a love for life.Donna McCaw: http://donnamccaw.comDuration - 24:56VoxBox: Audio segments from YouTube - Fry and Laurie sketchesMusic Credit: George Jones - Don't Need Your Rockin' Chair
2019-04-0824 minThe SillTSP090 - PH Factor: What’s up with DST?The pros and cons of Daylight Saving Time have been the subject of an ongoing debate since the late 19th century. There’s validity on both sides of the argument, despite the lack of general agreement as to its efficacy.Duration: 23:45VoxBox: Audio segments from YouTube - George Carlin on ‘Time’Music Credit: Bill Hayley & His Comets - (We’re Gonna) Rock Around The Clock
2019-04-0123 minThe SillTSP089 - Transcendent Tunes: Hey kids, it’s twinkle time.For millennia, lullabies have lulled children into slumber land. From ancient Egypt to modern day, tunes like Twinkle,Twinkle, Little Star and their relative importance often goes unnoticed or unappreciated.Duration: 22:41VoxBox: Audio segments from YouTube - Various artists and performers.Music Credit: Israel "IZ" Kamakawiwoʻole - Twinkle Twinkle Little StarHIghlights:History and significance of lullabiesOrigins and variations of the song "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star"Importance of lullabies and their soothing effects on childrenBenefits of singing lullabies to premature infantsOther famous lullabies and their composersTherapeutic and bonding aspects o...
2019-03-2522 minThe SillTSP088 - Time Trek: Ikebana - Time for reflection.The birth of Ikebana, or the Japanese art of flower arranging, dates back to the 7th century. Combining the mindfulness of the Buddhist traditions with Shinto’s connection to nature, this refined art form can offer the West unexpected insights into the essence of life.Duration - 29:17VoxBox: Audio segments from YouTube - Kung Fu episodeMusic Credit: Kingston Trio - Where Have All The Flowers Gone
2019-03-1829 minThe SillTSP087 - Digging Words: SYMBIOSIS - You scratch my back…From the simple notion of mutual dependence the idea of symbiosis has expanded to include a variety of relationship dynamics, that surrounds us at every turn. Running the gamut from parasitism to mutualism, symbiosis encompasses more than the obvious benevolence.Duration: 26:13VoxBox: Audio segments from YouTube - Elvis Presley, Ted Talk & Cheers segmentsMusic Credit: James Brown - It’s A Man’s, Man’s, Man’s, World
2019-03-1126 minThe SillTSP086 - The Undefinable Spirit: The bassoon takes a bow, with Nadina Mackie.Solo bassoonist, Nadina Mackie is the most widely recorded Canadian bassoonist in history, with 17 new works for solo bassoon and orchestra written for her in the last decade. Nadina intimately describes her journey.
Nadina Mackie: https://nadinamackie.com
Duration: 37:49VoxBox: Audio segments from YouTube - March 2014 - Trumpet virtuoso Guy Few and bassoonist Nadina Mackie. The Canadian duo stopped by the Classic 107 studio to talk with host Bill Richardson.
Music Credit: Nadina Mackie and Guy Few - Silver Angel ConcertoPosted: August 27, 2023Highlights:Introduction of Nadina Mackie as a special...
2019-03-0437 minThe SillTSP085 - PH Factor: Lines That Blind - Why should I trust you?Can you trust what you can’t see? The ideas of trust and respect have become nebulous concepts in a world of promises and betrayal.Duration: 28:23VoxBox: Audio segments from YouTube - Esther Perel - Once a Cheater, Always a Cheater?Music Credit: Beyonce - Trust In Me
2019-02-2528 minThe SillTSP084 - Transcendent Tunes: Jolson rocks.‘Rock-A-Bye Your Baby With A Dixie Melody’, a transcendent tune from a transcendent performer. Russian born singer Al Jolson rocked the world with his African-American inspired jazz singing style. Spanning five decades of musical and audio evolution, as the “greatest entertainer” of his day, he left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.Duration: 28:49VoxBox: Audio segments from YouTube - Al Jolson, Judy Garland, Sammy Davis Jr., Jerry Lewis & Aretha FranklinMusic Credit: Al Jolson - Rock-A-Bye Your Baby With A Dixie Melody
2019-02-1828 minThe SillTSP083 - Time Trek: Degeneracy trumps Fascism.Out of the ashes of the Wiemar Republic, Hitler’s National Socialist Party rose to absolute power, and immediately set out to cleanse the nation, of all “anti-Aryan” culture. The Degenerate Art Show of 1937, exemplified this highly calculated program.Duration: 27:34VoxBox: Audio segments from YouTube - Doug Stanhope on nationalism &Ursonate - Kurt Schwitters - ARTE CreativeMusic Credit: Dogcatmouse Singers - Der Kommisar
2019-02-1127 minThe SillTSP082 - Digging Words: BRAGGADOCIO - Bigger, yet often smaller, than life.First used in 1590, the word ‘Braggadocio’ has come to represent the epitome of human vanity. Our history and our modern world is replete with examples of this rarely used and archaic word.Duration: 27:29VoxBox: Audio segments from YouTube - Muhammad Ali clips, The Braggarts Dilemma & Donald Trump clips.Music Credit: Carly Simon - You’re So Vain
2019-02-0427 minThe SillTSP081 - The Undefinable Spirit: Re-imagining Architecture with Robert Arnone.President and owner, Robert Arnone, of R.H. Carter Architects shares the often unseen inner workings of the Architectural world. Spanning a 30 year career, he describes how the ‘doing of architecture’ has, and is evolving.R.H. Carter & Associates: https://www.rhcarter.comDuration: 46:28VoxBox: Audio segment from YouTube - Monty Python - Architecture Comedy SketchMusic Credit: Bruce Springsteen - 10th Avenue Freeze Out & The National - Blood Buzz Ohio
2019-01-2846 minThe SillTSP080 - Transcendent Tunes: Led Zeppelin’s celestial climb.One of the greatest rock bands of all time creating one of the most, some would say, earth shattering and lasting songs in music history. A timeless and evocative tune, shared and enjoyed by generation after generation.Duration: 27:20VoxBox: Audio segment from YouTube - Robert Plant on Writing Led Zeppelin's ‘Stairway To Heaven’ (Radio.com Minimation). The podcast opening features a BBC segment with Jimmy Page on how Stairway To Heaven was written.Music Credit: Led Zeppelin - Stairway To Heaven
2019-01-2127 minThe SillTSP079 - Time Trek: Spanning the Ages.Arcing back through time, we explore the architectural and social impact of ‘the arch’ over the centuries, on our civilizations, and its symbolic resonance.Duration: 22:46VoxBox: Audio segment from YouTube - Ancient History: Rome If You Want To, The Pantheon (EP2) - Drive Thru HistoryMusic Credit: Licensed & Royalty Free by Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) - Crossing the Chasm
2019-01-1422 minThe SillTSP078 - New Year, New Self: I resolve.In the face of the inevitability of accelerating change, how in the world can we positively integrate these shifts, while maintaining a true sense of self?Duration - 28:06VoxBox: Audio segment from YouTube - Terence McKenna: Trust YourselfMusic Credit: Charles Wright & The Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band - Express Yourself
2019-01-0728 minThe SillTSP077 - The Sill Podcast 2018 In Review: Cogent clips.Our first full year of podcasting spanned a diverse landscape of ideas, interlacing the large and serious with the profane and fun, as reflected in the excerpts included in this podcast.Duration - 27:48VoxBox: Podcast clips from ‘The Sill’ episodes recorded in 2018Music Credit: Frank Sinatra - It Was a Very Good Year
2018-12-3127 minThe SillTSP076 - So, you think you can podcast? You can.The reality of podcasting is a bit more complicated than talking into a microphone. Taking an initial idea to a finished product, entails a variety of considerations, from topics to technical requirements to content delivery.Duration: 34:44VoxBox: Audio segment from YouTube - On podcastingMusic Credit: Bonnie Raitt - Something To Talk About
2018-12-2434 minThe SillTSP075 - Resistance Is Futile: Zoomers tackle tech.Seniors are tackling the challenges of technology to remain connected and relevant. Overcoming fears and learning obstacles have become part of yet another phase of life.Duration: 28:44VoxBox: Audio segment from YouTube - Woody AllenMusic Credit: Jimmy Durante - Young At Heart
2018-12-1728 minThe SillTSP074 - Transcendent Tunes: Dylan’s Revolutionary Epiphany.Like A Rolling Stone, Dylan's six plus minutes masterpiece, defied the expectations of folk music enthusiasts and the music industry itself, inspiring a new generation of balladeers.Duration - 27:39VoxBox: Audio segment from YouTube - Robbie RobertsonMusic Credit: Bob Dylan - Like A Rolling Stone
2018-12-1027 minThe SillTSP073 - Digging Words: AMBEDO - Deep diving in the shallows.Human beings have created words for untranslatable experiences since the dawn of language. We explore a brand new word from an unusual new dictionary created by John Koenig.Duration - 27:38VoxBox: Audio segment from YouTube - John Koenig's video and TedTalk on his word, AmbedoMusic Credit: Joni Mitchel - Woodstock
2018-12-0327 minThe SillTSP072 - Hook, Line and Sinker: The boy who cried wolf.How do we know what we know? The inner struggle to determine what is real and what is fiction has preoccupied humanity since the emergence of intelligent life.Duration - 29:57VoxBox: Audio segment from YouTube - Densel Washington interview on ‘information’ and War Of The Worlds 1938 radio broadcast segmentMusic Credit: The Undisputed Truth - Smiling Faces Sometimes
2018-11-2629 minThe SillTSP071 - Transcendent Tunes: Searing and soulful ‘Strange Fruit’.Billie Holiday’s most iconic and recognized song, has been acknowledged as the harbinger of the civil rights movement in America. The song’s origin may surprise and enlighten even those of us who are familiar with this transcendent tune.Duration - 27:59VoxBox: Audio segment from YouTube - Rene Marie audio segment, Nina Simone references the Civil Rights MovementMusic Credits: Billie Holiday (& Nina Simone & Rene Marie) - Strange Fruit
2018-11-1928 minThe SillTSP070 - We Don’t Know You Anymore: The deluded self.The eternal question of who we are: Are we a singularity or a multiplicity? The self has been the subject of exploration for Millennia, so who are we now?Duration - 28:49VoxBox: Audio segment from YouTube video - Abbot & Costello - Segment of ‘Who’s On First’Music Credits: The Who - Who Are you?
2018-11-1228 minThe SillTSP069 - The Undefinable Spirit: Celebrating the spoken word with Valentino Assenza.As host of the popular radio program Howl, Valentino Assenza has interviewed the likes of Nino Ricci and Margaret Atwood among other literary lights. A veteran of the Toronto spoken word scene, Valentino shares his love of language and other word-based art forms. Note: Our phone interview with Valentino was intermittently compromised by the quality of our connection.Duration - 25:54 VoxBox: Audio segment from YouTube video - Insider's view of the 1930s radio studio showing the production of dramatic sound effectsMusic Credits: Beatles - The Word
2018-11-0525 minThe SillTSP068 - Digging Words: RISIBLE - I amuse you, I make you laugh?In unpacking the word RISIBLE, we discover the importance of humour in helping us deal with our day to day living and life in general. From health benefits to tech humour, the range of risibility is all encompassing.Duration - 29:29 VoxBox: The Nonna (Paola) that couldn't use Siri Music Credits: Donavon Frankenreiter - Life, Love & Laughter
2018-10-2929 minThe SillTSP067 - Transcendent Tunes: Feeling those ‘Good Vibrations’.In the midst of the turmoil in the mid 60’s, five young Californians surfed the rising musical waves to pop music’s iconic stardom. The pinnacle moment birthed the release of the much loved ‘pocket symphony’, Good Vibrations.Duration - 24:04VoxBox: Brian Wilson (The Beach Boys)Music Credits: The Beach Boys - Good Vibrations and George Gershwin, The Ronettes, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Chuck Berry and The Beach Boys
2018-10-2224 minThe SillTSP066 - The Hippo and The Oxpecker: Repairing the synapses of community.From the Humongous Fungus of Oregon to the wave of human migration spreading across our planet, life has become more dependent then ever on the value of connectivity.Duration - 28:19VoxBox: Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the World Wide Web.Highlights:Importance of connection and continuity in communitiesSymbiotic relationship between a hippo and an oxpeckerInterconnectedness of nature and the humongous fungusRole of storytelling in communitiesChallenges of technology, including software updates and lack of compatibilityConcept of open source technologyImpact of social media on global connectivity and individual isolationPower of art to connect people universallyRelationships...
2018-10-1528 minThe SillTSP065 - The Undefinable Spirit: Globetrotting with The Pattons.Have you ever thought about pulling up roots and heading out into the great wide open? Chantal Patton and her family have and did.Growing Up Without Borders: https://www.growingupwithoutborders.comDuration - 29:48VoxBox: Steve Martin - Comedy excerpt
2018-10-0829 minThe SillTSP064 - The Undefinable Spirit: Dr. Claudia Six on her book, Erotic Integrity.The Undefinable Spirit: Dr. Claudia Six talks to us about discovering your sexual soul in her book, Erotic Integrity.Dr. Claudia Six: http://www.drsix.netA frank and open discussion about one of the most problematic aspects of human life - sexuality. Dr. Claudia Six offers pathways to recognizing, repairing and recovering our sexual soul.Duration - 44:24VoxBox: Liz Miele - Feminist sex positionsMusic Credits: Salt-N-Pepa - Let’s Talk About Sex and Right Said Fred - I'm Too Sexy
2018-10-0144 minThe SillTSP063 - Digging Words: ZEITGEIST - The air we breath.How the zeitgeist informs our evolution. Pointing out the varying zeitgeists that underpin our recent history.Duration - 24:37 VoxBox Segment: Peter Joseph Interviewed on 'The Marker' - Tel Aviv TV | The Zeitgeist MovementMusic Credit: Nicky Wire - I killed the Zeitgeist
2018-09-2424 minThe SillTSP062 - Whose Got The Right Time?: An enigmatic dimension.Why are we obsessed with time? Both art and technology employ and utilize different aspects of this man-made dimension.Duration - 24:40 VoxBox: Dave Allen on the subject of TimeMusic Credit: Pink Floyd - Time
2018-09-1724 minThe SillTSP061 - The Absence Of Silence: Is technology engulfing us in a world of noise?The short answer is yes… The sonic landscapes through which we move offer us both challenges to, and opportunities for, our general health.Duration - 24:32VoxBox: Assorted YouTube segmentsHighlights:Impact of technology on sound and noise levelsEffects of sound on hearing impairmentCharacteristics of sound: frequency, quality, and loudnessMeasurement of sound volume in decibelsIntroduction of noise pollution through technologyPositive and negative aspects of soundChallenges faced by people with hearing impairment"Wall of sound" technique used by producer Phil SpectorSeeking out quiet spaces to escape noise pollutionImportance of protecting hearing and limiting ex...
2018-09-1024 minThe SillTSP060 - In My Craw: What’s bugging you?Pet peeves have been exacerbated by, but not limited to, technology. Venting steam, in the face of a world that so often diminishes human values.Duration - 27:08 VoxBox: On YouTube - 100 People Tell Us Their Pet Peeves | Keep it 100 |Music Credit: Benjamin Clementine - I Won’t Complain
2018-09-0327 minThe SillTSP059 - Digging Words: UBIQUITOUS - It’s everywhere.Take a word, any word. There’s a world of meaning waiting to be mined. Join Peter and Harry as they dig their vocabulary shovels into the word 'ubiquitous'. Duration - 21:39 VoxBox: On YouTube - He’s everywhere - Chicken Man & On You Tube - 3 DICKS ON A BENCH discuss ubiquitousMusic Credits: On YouTube - FUNNY SONG #3 - The Long Word Song and Fleetwood Mac - Everywhere
2018-08-2721 minThe SillTSP058 - Head and Heart: A tenuous tango.Where thought and emotion intersect is a veritable no-man’s land, on our ongoing search for perspective and empathy. Duration - 26:48 VoxBox: On YouTube - Forest Blakk: Find Me [Spoken Word]Music Credits: Harry Dial & His Blusicians - My Head Says Yes, But My Heart Says No and Paul McCartney - Let Me Roll It
2018-08-2026 minThe SillTSP057 - The Undefinable Spirit: Nanci Malek, not afraid to ask.Interning at MuchMusic, CityTV, YTV, Nanci Malek has spent the last 38 joyful years producing and directing music and film, as well as promoting the Canadian entertainment industry.Duration - 20:37VoxBox: MP for Wellington-Halton Hills, Michael Chong, opposes Melanchthon Mega-Quarry & The song about the Melanchthon Quarry, by Mr Hobo Wally - Walk With Me, Stop The Quarry.Music Credit: Gordon Lightfoot - Seven Island Suite and Andy Kim - This Is The Girl
2018-08-1320 minThe SillTSP056 - You Can Lead A Horse To Water: Consumer con contagion.Have I got a deal for you! Lost in the whirlpool of stuff, decoupling from consumer clutter.Duration - 25:06VoxBox: George Carlin on ‘Stuff’Music Credit: Patti Page - How Much Is That Doggy In The Window?
2018-08-0625 minThe SillTSP054 - You Talkin' To Me?: I couldn't even begin to think, about knowing how to answer that question.Beginning near the end of the 18th century, our fascination with Speech Technology has brought us to the age of virtual assistance in the form of Siri, Alexa and others. What does this all mean?Duration - 26:26 VoxBox: HAL 9000 from Space Odyssey 2001 on YouTubeMusic Credit: Harry Nilsson - Everybody’s Talkin’
2018-07-2326 minThe SillTSP052 - 52 Pick-Up: A year of podcasting.From initial concept to uploaded podcast, Peter and Harry chat about the in and outs of podcasting. This one year retrospective, includes snippets from some of our last 51 episodes.Duration - 33:46VoxBox: YouTube ExcerptMusic Credit: Frank Sinatra - It Was A Very Good Year
2018-07-0933 minThe SillTSP050 - Malware: Pop-up spawns metafiction.A discussion of Harry’s novella-in-progress, in which the author gets real about art as an act of defiance.Duration - 24:38VoxBox: Audiopedia’s ‘Meta-joke’ on YouTubeMusic Credit: Daft Punk - Technologic
2018-06-2524 min
The SillTSP045 - The Undefinable Spirit: Blues & Jazz Bops Into Town: 16 years of musical joy.Peter and Harry talk with Orangeville Blues & Jazz Festival founder Larry Kurtz.Orangeville Blues & Jazz: https://orangevillebluesandjazz.caDuration - 18:22VoxBox: Miles Davis, Buddy Guy, BB King and Etta James Music Credit: John Scofield - I Don’t Need No Doctor
2018-05-2118 minThe SillTSP039 - My Life Has Value: Rethinking Populism.Examining the relevance of populism in our current world and the challenge confronting the new generation.Duration - 25:28VoxBox: Movie Clip from ’Network’ - delivered by actor Peter Finch as Howard BealeMusic Credits: Sly & The Family Stone - Everyday People and Parachute Club - Rise Up
2018-04-0925 minThe SillTSP035 - Riffing On Music: Talking about revolution.A hop and a skip across music’s influential landscape, “Songs in the key of life”.Duration - 33:19VoxBox: George Martin & The BeatlesMusic Credits: Eva Noce, Beethoven, Beatles, Chuck Berry, Pink Floyd
2018-03-1233 minThe SillTSP016 - Paranoia: Into your life it will creep.Harry and Peter conspire to enter the world of ‘what if’ and ‘could it be that...?’ From Big Brother to Big Google, they ask the question: should we be looking over our shoulders?Duration - 21:15Music Credit: Buffalo Springfield - For What It’s Worth
2017-10-3021 minThe SillTSP014 - Altered Realities: Is anybody out there?Peter and Harry, on a natural high, discuss the value of wriggling out of our normal skin.Duration - 23:48Music Credit: Beatles - I Am The Walrus
2017-10-1623 minThe SillTSP003 – The Art of Poetry: Poet Laureate waxes poetic.Harry Posner discusses his views, plans and ideas, on becoming Dufferin County's first Poet Laureate.Duration - 24:59
2017-07-3125 minThe SillTSP000 - Intro: Peter & Harry, who do they think they are?Brief Bio chat introducing Peter & Harry.Duration - 15:10
2017-07-1015 min