Vanessa Reich-Shackelford - Podcast Details

Shows

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoOh, We Give Thanks: A Bread Communion"Oh, We Give Thanks: A Bread Communion" Sunday, November 26, 10:50 am, 2023 In this quiet service, we will make space to be fed, to reflect on our times around the table and how they have shaped us, to share some of the food we love, and to fill up on the nourishment of giving thanks. If you have a baked good to donate to the table (for sharing at a service or afterwards), please let Vanessa know (VRSouthern@uusf.org). Others inspired at the last minute can just put it out at coffee hour after service! ...2023-11-261h 17

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoOh, We Give Thanks: A Bread Communion"Oh, We Give Thanks: A Bread Communion" Sunday, November 26, 10:50 am, 2023 In this quiet service, we will make space to be fed, to reflect on our times around the table and how they have shaped us, to share some of the food we love, and to fill up on the nourishment of giving thanks. If you have a baked good to donate to the table (for sharing at a service or afterwards), please let Vanessa know (VRSouthern@uusf.org). Others inspired at the last minute can just put it out at coffee hour after service! ...2023-11-2617 min

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoA Hermit's Life"A Hermit's Life" Sunday, March 12, 10:50 am Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister, Preaching A part of me dreams of being a hermit -- not all year, but part of every year, and not completely alone but a lot alone. And so I spent part of sabbatical reading about hermit's lives and the pieces that feel most gorgeous. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister; Rev. Laura Shennum, Minister of Congregational Life; Dennis Adams, Worship Associate; Gregory Stevens, Canvass Testimony; Ben Rudiak-Gould, Songleader; Bill Ganz, Pianist Eric Shackelford, Camera; Jonathan Silk...2023-03-121h 10

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoA Hermit's Life"A Hermit's Life" Sunday, March 12, 10:50 am Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister, Preaching A part of me dreams of being a hermit -- not all year, but part of every year, and not completely alone but a lot alone. And so I spent part of sabbatical reading about hermit's lives and the pieces that feel most gorgeous. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister; Rev. Laura Shennum, Minister of Congregational Life; Dennis Adams, Worship Associate; Gregory Stevens, Canvass Testimony; Ben Rudiak-Gould, Songleader; Bill Ganz, Pianist Eric Shackelford, Camera; Jonathan Silk, Communications Director...2023-03-1226 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoSome of What I Learned on My Sabbatical: Reclaiming Time and Empathy At a recent trip to the DeYoung Museum, to see the exhibit by Black South African artist Lhola Amira, I was made aware of (at least) two parts of the righting of the heart and mind around our shared human history. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister; Sam King, Worship Associate; Shawnette Sulker, Soprano; Mark Sumner, Songleader; Jon Silk, Drummer; Wm. García Ganz, Pianist Shulee Ong, Camera; Eric Shackelford, Camera; Jonathan Silk, Communications Director; Joe Chapot, Live Chat Moderator; Thomas Brown, Sexton; Carrie Steere-Salazar, Flowers; Linda Messner, Head Usher; Ralph Fenn, Les James, Tom Brookshire, Zoom Coffee Hour LIVESTREAM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DnikWdJ1E8 OOS: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IbTftR9ipv2nkL6lYUEkuA7uZbUU_i67/view?usp=share_link PLAYLIST: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGWIRF9PinfwPGOdVb00NNSJaAgz3MasT"Some of What I Learned on My Sabbatical: Reclaiming Time and Empathy" Sunday, February 26, 10:50 am The gift of sabbatical is supposed to be about time -- fallow time, time "on the balcony" of your own life, time to rekindle flames that burn low. What I found was a new thread in an ongoing tapestry I have been weaving about time and my struggles with and against it; and about empathy. The two are related. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister; Rev. Laura Shennum, Minister of Congregational Life; Mari Magaloni Ramos, Worship Associate; Reiko...2023-02-2627 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoMourning and Celebrating At a recent trip to the DeYoung Museum, to see the exhibit by Black South African artist Lhola Amira, I was made aware of (at least) two parts of the righting of the heart and mind around our shared human history. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister; Sam King, Worship Associate; Shawnette Sulker, Soprano; Mark Sumner, Songleader; Jon Silk, Drummer; Wm. García Ganz, Pianist Shulee Ong, Camera; Eric Shackelford, Camera; Jonathan Silk, Communications Director; Joe Chapot, Live Chat Moderator; Thomas Brown, Sexton; Carrie Steere-Salazar, Flowers; Linda Messner, Head Usher; Ralph Fenn, Les James, Tom Brookshire, Zoom Coffee Hour LIVESTREAM https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8DnikWdJ1E8 OOS: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1IbTftR9ipv2nkL6lYUEkuA7uZbUU_i67/view?usp=share_link PLAYLIST: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGWIRF9PinfwPGOdVb00NNSJaAgz3MasT"Mourning and Celebrating" Sunday, February 19, 10:50 am At a recent trip to the DeYoung Museum, to see the exhibit by Black South African artist Lhola Amira, I was made aware of (at least) two parts of the righting of the heart and mind around our shared human history. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister; Sam King, Worship Associate; Shawnette Sulker, Soprano; Mark Sumner, Songleader; Jon Silk, Drummer; Wm. García Ganz, Pianist Shulee Ong, Camera; Eric Shackelford, Camera; Jonathan Silk, Communications Director; Joe Chapot, Live Chat Moderator; Thomas Brown, Sexton; Carrie Steere-Salazar, F...2023-02-1926 min

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoWhat the Pecans have to Teach?“What the Pecans have to Teach?” (November 21, 2021) Worship Service I know -- What does Vanessa mean by this?! Drawing on a chapter in Robin Wall Kimmerer's "Braiding Sweetgrass" a little more about the pecans in your pie, and their life story and wisdom, to lead us soulfully into the week ahead. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister; Linda Harris, UUSC Chair; Bell Choir led by Reiko Oda Lane, Organist; Choir led by Mark Sumner, Music Director; Maddy Gerlach, Soprano; Sylvie Jensen, Alto; Nancy Munn, Soprano; Morgen Warner, Soprano; Jon Silk, Drummer; Wm. García Ganz, Piani...2021-11-211h 17

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoWhat the Pecans have to Teach?“What the Pecans have to Teach?” (November 21, 2021) Worship Service I know -- What does Vanessa mean by this?! Drawing on a chapter in Robin Wall Kimmerer's "Braiding Sweetgrass" a little more about the pecans in your pie, and their life story and wisdom, to lead us soulfully into the week ahead. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister; Linda Harris, UUSC Chair; Bell Choir led by Reiko Oda Lane, Organist; Choir led by Mark Sumner, Music Director; Maddy Gerlach, Soprano; Sylvie Jensen, Alto; Nancy Munn, Soprano; Morgen Warner, Soprano; Jon Silk, Drummer; Wm. García Ganz, Piani...2021-11-2116 min

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San Francisco"Higher Love: Installation Service""Higher Love: Installation Service" (October 3, 2021) Worship Service "The Installation Service of Senior Minister Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern" This is a sermon (Higher Love) about where this ministry together takes us and some of what we learn along the way. Our preacher, the Rev. Elizabeth Lerner Maclay, is the Senior Minister of the First Unitarian Church of Providence, RI. Rev. Maclay has been in Providence since 2017 in a congregation that first gathered in 1720! Rev. Maclay played a central role while serving in Maryland for the successful passage of that state's Marriage Equality legislation, as well as...2021-10-041h 54

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San Francisco"Higher Love: Installation Service""Higher Love: Installation Service" (October 3, 2021) Worship Service "The Installation Service of Senior Minister Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern" This is a sermon (Higher Love) about where this ministry together takes us and some of what we learn along the way. Our preacher, the Rev. Elizabeth Lerner Maclay, is the Senior Minister of the First Unitarian Church of Providence, RI. Rev. Maclay has been in Providence since 2017 in a congregation that first gathered in 1720! Rev. Maclay played a central role while serving in Maryland for the successful passage of that state's Marriage Equality legislation, as well as...2021-10-0420 min

Kiwis in BusinessEp 33 - Kiwi spotting and wine tasting with Kiwiness ToursJoin Vanessa Wards, Director & Guide at Kiwiness Tours, as she takes us on a beautiful journey of owning a business! Born and bred on the Matakana coast, Vanessa (aka Ness) talks to Linda about her Kiwi bird spotting tours at Tawharanui Peninsula and the wine tasting tours she’s created in the region.“I grew up at Tawharanui Regional Park, as my dad is the ranger there. This area is so beautiful so I started offering a range of tours, leveraging off the little wine trail we have here on the Matakana Coast,” says Ness. “By night I go out t...2021-03-2919 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoSaying "I'm Sorry"Saying "I'm Sorry" (January 17, 2021) Worship Service What is a "good apology" one with grace and authenticity of the kind that makes it land and gives it the power, or just potential power, to heal. It's always relevant, and more so perhaps today to have this skill at hand. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Meg McGuire, Ministerial Intern Dennis Adams, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organist Eric Shackelford, soloist Leandra Ramm, soprano Brielle Marina Neilson, alto Ben Rudiak-Gould, tenor Asher Davison, bass Mark Sumner, conductor/pianist ...2021-01-1921 min

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoSaying "I'm Sorry"Saying "I'm Sorry" (January 17, 2021) Worship Service What is a "good apology" one with grace and authenticity of the kind that makes it land and gives it the power, or just potential power, to heal. It's always relevant, and more so perhaps today to have this skill at hand. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Meg McGuire, Ministerial Intern Dennis Adams, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organist Eric Shackelford, soloist Leandra Ramm, soprano Brielle Marina Neilson, alto Ben Rudiak-Gould, tenor Asher Davison, bass Mark Sumner, conductor/pianist ...2021-01-191h 27

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoFrom Fragility to Accountability"From Fragility to Accountability" (July 26, 2020) This Sunday, there is a journey we'd like you to take with us. Let us go as seekers. We will pack a little bag and wander along a less traveled path. It's a path that we hope, one day, will become well worn as others follow us into a new place. We won’t be following an easy trail, but the promise of this journey is that we will become less anxious and more steadfast in the work of anti-racism. We have a responsibility that has been nagging at us for generation upon genera...2020-07-2731 min

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoPoetry for Summer Musing"Poetry for Summer Musing" (July 19, 2020) Periodically diving deep in the world of poetry is like asking someone to hold a frame around the ordinary or a magnifying glass against the small that holds universes. What better time for such presence to ordinary that is anything but ordinary than summer days -- bring a blade of grass to put between your teeth! Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Sam King, Worship Associate Jill Rachuy Brindel, cello Marilyn Thompson, pianist Asher Davison, song leader Wm. García Ganz, pianist Eric Shackelford, camera 2020-07-201h 04

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoPoetry for Summer Musing"Poetry for Summer Musing" (July 19, 2020) Periodically diving deep in the world of poetry is like asking someone to hold a frame around the ordinary or a magnifying glass against the small that holds universes. What better time for such presence to ordinary that is anything but ordinary than summer days -- bring a blade of grass to put between your teeth! Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Sam King, Worship Associate Jill Rachuy Brindel, cello Marilyn Thompson, pianist Asher Davison, song leader Wm. García Ganz, pianist Eric Shackelford, camera 2020-07-2023 min

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoThe Power of Witnessing"The Power of Witnessing" (July 12, 2020) In W.H. Auden's poem "Musee des Beaux Arts" the poet describes two Brueghel paintings and in both something about the witnessing or missing of huge moments in the human drama was/is the theme. It got me thinking about this act of witnessing, why and how it is important to us, a salve, a buoy. And how it might actually be one of the most important and not-so-difficult gifts we can give one another. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Alex Darr, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organist 2020-07-131h 19

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoThe Power of Witnessing"The Power of Witnessing" (July 12, 2020) In W.H. Auden's poem "Musee des Beaux Arts" the poet describes two Brueghel paintings and in both something about the witnessing or missing of huge moments in the human drama was/is the theme. It got me thinking about this act of witnessing, why and how it is important to us, a salve, a buoy. And how it might actually be one of the most important and not-so-difficult gifts we can give one another. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Alex Darr, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organist 2020-07-1322 min

Complete Service-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoExquisite Risk"Exquisite Risk" (July 5, 2020) Following on our sermon on "Negotiating Risk" (May 17) we will look this Sunday at the flip side of risk -- that part of engaging life that is scary but gorgeous and transformative, that keeps us growing and alive. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Dennis Adams, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organist Gilead Wurman, baritone Asher Davison, bass-baritone Wm. Garcia Ganz, pianist Eric Shackelford, camera Joe Chapot, Social Media Chat Support Alex Darr, Zoom Remote Host Jonathan Silk, OOS, Sound, Podcasting, Video Edits 2020-07-061h 10

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoExquisite Risk"Exquisite Risk" (July 5, 2020) Following on our sermon on "Negotiating Risk" (May 17) we will look this Sunday at the flip side of risk -- that part of engaging life that is scary but gorgeous and transformative, that keeps us growing and alive. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Dennis Adams, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organist Gilead Wurman, baritone Asher Davison, bass-baritone Wm. Garcia Ganz, pianist Eric Shackelford, camera Joe Chapot, Social Media Chat Support Alex Darr, Zoom Remote Host Jonathan Silk, OOS, Sound, Podcasting, Video Edits 2020-07-0626 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoThe Perfect Day"The Perfect Day" (June 28, 2020) In the story of creation told in Hebrew Scriptures, after six days of work creating heaven and earth, God took a day off. And so there’s a long tradition in Judaism and Christianity and Islam this day of Sabbath so the actual day that’s marked as such as different in each tradition. It is a day of mandatory rest. A day in which we are supposed to pretend that everything is perfect as it is and well in the gorgeousness of life at our feet. To me this is a genius creation by m...2020-06-3021 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoLost Stories"Lost Stories" (June 21, 2020) June 19th, every year, also known as Juneteenth, Freedom Day, Black Fourth of July, is the day in The United States that we commemorate June 19, 1865, when two and a half years after the Emanciation Proclamation was implemented, enslaved African Americans in parts of the South finally got word of their liberation. As we commemorate that date we will look at the history of lost stories, as part of the legacy of slavery and the founding fabric of the United States. We will tell the story of Bilali. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister 2020-06-2332 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoFor Such a Time as ThisFor Such a Time as This (June 7, 2020) Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Rochelle Fortier Nwadibia, Worship Associate Ben Rudiak-Gould, tenor Asher Davison, bass-baritone Wm. Garcia Ganz, pianist Eric Shackelford, camera Joe Chapot, Social Media Chat Support Alex Darr, Zoom Remote Host Jonathan Silk, OOS, Sound, Podcasting, Video Edits 2020-06-0923 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoNegotiating Risk"Negotiating Risk" (May 17, 2020) Life is risky business, always, and always has been, but life right now has put the idea of risk at the center of our lives, and in more ways than one. Let's talk risk and what it brings into sharp(er) focus in our own lives and the world, and how this close dance-with-risk might change us! Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Sam King, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organ Mark Sumner, bass Wm. Garcia Ganz, piano Asher Davison, bass-baritone Eric Shackelford, camera Joe...2020-05-1926 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoIt Takes a Village: The People Who Shaped Us"It Takes a Village: The People Who Shaped Us" (May 10, 2020) Mothers are important, but also mothering and befriending, grand parenting and neighboring all shape us too as we grow, come to know ourselves, choose how and who we'd like to be in the world. This Mother's Day we will celebrate the stories of, as Garrison Keillor says, "The Mothers and Others." Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Anish Johnson, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organ Mark Sumner, bass Wm. Garcia Ganz, piano Brielle Nielson, mezzo-soprano Asher Davison, bass-baritone Jo...2020-05-1221 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoHow Are You Feeling?"How Are You Feeling?" (May 3, 2020) Fred Rogers taught us that it's important to express our feelings, and to be listened to and respected. It's not always easy to say what's in our hearts. We need to feel safe and know that others can be trusted. It's what we strive for in our Sunday School, and in all of our church interactions. This Sunday, we'll draw lessons from Mr. Rogers neighborhood that can help us on our way. This Sunday concludes our formal Sunday School programming. Our children and youth will join us virtually for the start of worship...2020-05-0525 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoLife in the Monastery"Life in the Monastery" (April 26, 2020) Part of me has always wanted to live in a monastery. The only problem is that my spouse wouldn't agree, and there are all those vows too. Lately, though, there is a lot monastic about my life, and maybe yours. What if we think of framing our time of stay-at-home as "Life in the Monastery"? What would that mean or might it. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Dennis Adams, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organ Giacomo Fiore, electric guitar and electronics My-Hoa Steger, pianist ...2020-04-2825 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoEarth’s Lessons"Earth’s Lessons" (April 19, 2020) On April 22,1970 “teach-ins” launched the first Earth Day. Fifty years later, voices from across the globe are demanding that we wake up, double down, and respond more quickly to the climate crisis. “Climate change is a timed test” (McKibben) and the 2020s will be our exam. This is neither a test of individual purity, nor an exam we can pass alone. In this time of trauma and possibility, what are we learning? How can our faith help us to answer this existential call? Rev. Lindi Ramsden, Guest Minister Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Se...2020-04-2121 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoEaster in Holy Week Times"Easter in Holy Week Times" (April 12, 2020) This, you might say, is not exactly an Easter time. The events of Holy Week, as it is traditionally celebrated, feel so much more accurate a description of where most of us find ourselves around the globe. We live now, more than we often do, together in the shadow of loss, keeping company with human limitations, facing our mortality, and present to all the ways in which bad things happen to good and not-so-good people alike. You might say we are a Covid-19 global tribe weather Holy Week times. So where is th...2020-04-1422 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoPerspective: The Power of Climbing up onto the Balcony and What Can We See?"Perspective: The Power of Climbing up onto the Balcony and What Can We See?" (March 29, 2020) We all know that anxiety and fear sharpen our minds and brains down to a narrow tunnel of needs and priorities and put our thoughts on infinite repeats of certain “What If’s” — or a long, tired, bleak list of them. The antidote to that is, in part, perspective, what one author called, “Getting up on the balcony.” So, let’s try and get up there, this morning. What can we see from the balcony of these days? What’s the long view? What do we ourse...2020-03-3022 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoAre We Saved?"Are We Saved?" (March 22, 2020) A sermon about the age-old religious question and the honest-to-God answer (at least by this preacher)! Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Rev. Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister Joe Chapot, Office Assistant & Young Adult Coordinator Reiko Oda Lane, organ My Hoa Steger, piano Michele Kennedy, soprano Asher Davison, bass Eric Shackelford, camera Jonathan Silk, OOS, Sound, Podcasting, Video Edits 2020-03-2324 min $That\'s the Ticket!$ That's the Ticket!Episode 1: COVID-19 - Insights from Around the World Welcome to the first episode of That’s the Ticket, hosted by Vanessa Hennessey and Rinat Ben Avraham! This podcast should normally be about travel, but due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve changed the topic of the first episode. During the 18th and 19th of March 2020, Rinat and Vanessa received recordings from around the world by people who share what it is like for them to be in this current strange situation in their part of the world. You’ll hear Erica in Italy, Anders in the Anland Islands in Finland, Melissa in Austra...2020-03-2036 min $That\'s the Ticket!$ That's the Ticket!COVID-19: Insights from Around the World Welcome to the first episode of That’s the Ticket, hosted by Vanessa Hennessey and Rinat Ben Avraham! This podcast should normally be about travel, but due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we’ve changed the topic of the first episode. During the 18th and 19th of March 2020, Rinat and Vanessa received recordings from around the world by people who share what it is like for them to be in this current strange situation in their part of the world. You’ll hear Erica in Italy, Anders in the Anland Islands in Finland, Melissa in Austra...2020-03-2000 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoA Thousand Cuts and the Work of Healing"A Thousand Cuts and the Work of Healing" (March 8, 2020) This week we will look at what are called micro-agressions, how they unfold even in our community, how we intervene and imagine a world without them. Members Mari Maglione and Michael Bossier from Fake Comedy Radio, Don Shearer, Rochelle Fortier-Nwadibia and our ministers will lead a journey of skits and reflection as we explore this way to be better and more whole together. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Sharon Weld, Ministerial Intern Dr. Mark Sumner, Music Director Reiko Oda Lane, organ Wm...2020-03-0921 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoWhat Goes Around..."What Goes Around..." (March 1, 2020) So many stories, good stories — aren’t we in need of some good stories — to tell of another possible law of the universe. Or maybe just another addition to the Golden Rules worth risking on. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Sharon Weld, Ministerial Intern Nancy Buffum, Annual Operating Fund Drive Campaign Co-Chair Joe Dellert, Annual Operating Fund Drive Campaign Co-Chair Dr. Mark Sumner, Music Director Reiko Oda Lane, organ Wm. García Ganz, piano Scott Benbow, Trustee Eric Shackelford, camera Jonathan Silk, OOS, So...2020-03-0224 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoHonesty and Legacy II: Inspecting the Family Tree"Honesty and Legacy II: Inspecting the Family Tree" (January 19, 2020) Once we hit on the idea that our legacy as a person, a family or a nation is tied inextricably to our history, we have to own the responsibility to dig into that history, especially the parts that got papered over or conveniently forgotten. We looked at that in November (or started to) around the United State’s history with Native and Indigenous peoples. Let’s look this morning at two families and their journeys and just some of what they unearthed and had/have to reckon with...2020-01-2120 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoAngels Among Us: Christmas Eve Candlelight ServiceAngels Among Us (December 24, 2019) Please join us for a retelling of the story of Christmas, for carols and candlelight and an invitation for the spirit of the season to take hold of us! This year there will be no pageant, but plenty of story telling, candles, gorgeous music of all kinds, and magic. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Rev. Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister; Sharon Weld, Ministerial Intern Richard Davis Lowell, Worship Associate Dr. Mark Sumner, Music Director Reiko Oda Lane, organ and bell choir director Nancy Cooke Munn...2020-01-1325 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoBiophilia, the Urge to Connect with LifeBiophilia, the Urge to Connect with Life (August 25, 2019) Edward O. Wilson introduced the idea that we humans had the urge to connect with other forms of life in his 1984 book, "Biophilia". What happens when we have that connection, though, is just as important, how it changes us and our relationship to the world; that love may be what saves us! Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Christine Patch-Lindsay, Worship Associate Laurel Sprigg, soprano My-Hoa Steger née Lê, piano Shannon Warto, song leader Eric Shackelford, Welcome Dan Wiffen, video camera 2019-08-2622 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoPoetry and Life DistilledPoetry and Life Distilled (July 7, 2019) Following on the theme of spaciousness and invitations to sit with life and go deep, we will spend a Sunday hour sitting with the wisdom source and texts of a few arresting, delightful works of poetry. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Sam King, Worship Associate Reiko Oda Lane, organ Christine Tulis, harp and vocals Asher Davison, song leader Eric Shackelford, video camera Jonathan Silk, OOS, Sound, Podcasting 2019-07-0825 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 58: Nemaiah Shaw, Apprentice Aircraft Maintenance EngineerThis time, we look at the trades again and speak with Nemaiah Shaw, who tells us why she loves being an apprentice aircraft maintenance engineer, what it takes to become one, and her excitement for her eventual licensing. She also tells us what it's like navigating a career with low participation of women, her love for learning, and her hopes for the future of her career. Nemaiah Shaw is an apprentice Aircraft Maintenance Engineer with a passion for rotary wing aircraft working at the Langley Airport. As a student Nemaiah had a passion for the subject and...2019-06-1820 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 55: Ella Chan, Sci-Files YouTube Host & StudentElla Chan joins host Danniele to talk about all sorts of topics, including starting university and the importance of balancing the A in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics). She tells us about how she became interested in a career in STEAM and even what it's like behind the scenes of her YouTube channel, Sci-Files. Plus, she reveals the nerdy things she does in her spare time and gives great advice for those starting out in university. Fun fact: Ella was also a keynote speaker at Creating Connections 6.0 on May 4, 2019. Ella Chan is an 18-year-old student...2019-05-0723 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 54: Ellyne Kinney, Senior Systems Engineer, Earth Observation SystemsFor Ellyne Kinney, her curiosity and drive to have a successful career started early, and you'll hear all about it in this interview with Best of the WWEST host Danniele. She relives her time working on big deal astronomy projects (Hubble Space Telescope and Goddard Space Flight Center to name-drop just a couple), tells us about her fascination with space, and gives advice on how to be successful both in post-secondary school and in STEM careers. Ellyne Kinney is a senior solutions engineer of Earth Observations Systems at MDA. Ellyne joined MDA in May 2018 and develops the t...2019-04-1628 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 53: Rike Moon, Manager, STEAM Mentor Initiatives, Science WorldIn this episode, Rike Moon tells Danniele about her journey from a farm in Germany to her career at Science World in Vancouver. Rike gives great advice for STEM students and professionals, takes us down memory lane to explain how she overcame crippling exam anxiety, and gives us a glimpse into her non-professional life during the Lightning Round. Plus, you will never guess her most memorable moment at Science World - trust us, you just have to hear it. Rike Moon is the Manager of STEAM Mentor Initiatives at Science World. She has worked in the science m...2019-04-0338 min

Best of the WWESTAnia Kwiatkowski, PhD, Nuclear PhysicistThis time, Danniele hears from Ania Kwiatkowski, PhD, a nuclear physicist at TRIUMF who is passionate about her work. She talks about the friendly competitiveness of her field, and why she loves nuclear physics so much. You'll hear about how she is working in her dream job, and the advice she has for students to get them to their dream jobs, too. Ania Kwiatkowski is a research scientist at TRIUMF and adjunct faculty at the University of Victoria in the Department of Physics and Astronomy. She focuses on understanding the ground-state properties of radioactive ions using ion-trapping...2019-03-2943 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoBoldness!Boldness! (March 10, 2019) This Sunday our Annual Operating Fund Campaign begins! Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Rev. Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister Shari Halliday-Quan, Ministerial Intern Kelli Murray and Laurence Pulgram, AOF 2019 Dr. Mark Sumner, Choir Director Reiko Oda Lane, organ and bell choir director Millie Phillips, soprano Diane Allen, Vision/Mission, Chair Eric Shackelford, camera Shulee Ong, camera Scott Miller, Livestream Technical Support and camera Jonathan Silk, Podcasting, OOS, Livestream, Videos 2019-03-1121 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 51: Mily Mumford, Writer/Director/ScientistHost Danniele is joined by Mily Mumford to talk about scifi, bridging theatre and science, and the study of psychological effects of being in space. Mily tells us why she wants to be the "Black Mirror" of theatre and her passion for mental health awareness and support. She also gives advice for students and women in STEM that you don't want to miss. Mily Mumford is a writer, filmmaker, theatre creator and scientist based in Vancouver BC. After completing her Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience at the University of Victoria, Mily is now pursuing a M...2019-03-0632 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoGift Culture: the Gift ExperimentGift Culture: the Gift Experiment (March 3, 2019) What does it mean not to think of life as ownership? Other people have had this idea. How does it change us? We will kick off this experiment on Sunday. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Rev. Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister Dennis Adams, Worship Associate Dr. Mark Sumner, Choir Director Reiko Oda Lane, Organist Bill Lowell, Membership Kensington UU Choir Kate Offer,soloist Ariel Andrew,soloist Hsuanwei Fan,soloist Asher Davison,soloist Wm. Garcia Ganz, piano Gayle Reynolds...2019-03-0420 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 50: Dana Mills, Youth STEM Outreach Coordinator, Yukon CollegeAlison Anderson and the Yukon Edition of Best of the WWEST are back! This time, you'll hear from Dana Mills, who spends a lot of time with children and youth - and loves it! You'll hear why it's so important to support youth in their passions and the fascinating research Dana undertook about youth transitioning out of foster care. Plus, find out what she would bring to a deserted island and who inspires her. Dana Mills recently moved to Whitehorse from Ontario and has assumed the role of Youth STEM Outreach Coordinator at Yukon College. She is...2019-02-2026 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 49: Pamela Tannouri, Technology Development Manager, HealthTech ConnexFrom being the first employee at her current workplace, to growing a startup, to managing a team that is creating a revolutionary "blood pressure cuff for your brain," Pamela Tannouri tells host Danniele all about her journey through her career. She shares her wins, challenges she's had to overcome, and the progress her team has made in the development of their medical device. Pamela also shares some tips about maintaining work/life balance and Danniele and Pamela close the episode off with a lively lightning round. Pamela Tannouri is the Technology Development Manager and cultural champion for...2019-02-2032 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 48: Monika Stachura, PhD, Research Scientist, TRIUMFIn this episode, you'll hear from Monika Stachura, PhD, about her career as a research scientist and her important work coordinating the UBC program IsoSiM (Isotopes for Medicine and Science) at the University of British Columbia. She also fills us in on how to have a successful interdisciplinary career and how STEM research is heading in a more interdisciplinary direction. Plus, she tells us about her active life outside of work, what she would do if she weren't in her current field, and how to use your network to make connections and thrive. Please note a small...2019-02-0637 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoWrestling with TimeWrestling with Time (January 27, 2019) One of our UU Saints, Charles Darwin, wrote: "A man who dares to waste one hour of time has not discovered the value of life.” We are all destined to wrestle with time, it's passage, its limits, what it can be and what it can devolves into, and the refrain of the modernity since it began: how to be in a world of "speeded up.” Let's look this morning at at what it means to be forever engaged in wrestling with time, and how to thrive in the midst of it. 2019-01-2826 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoThe Myth of InevitabilityThe Myth of Inevitability (January 20, 2019) Sometimes in the telling of history backwards, everything looks as if it was leading to the place we arrived at -- a kind of foreordained destiny. But it is rarely so in people's lived experience. On this MLK Sunday we will look back at some of the stories and chapters of the American Civil Right's struggle and this myth of inevitability, as we prepare ourselves to live into the next chapter of it. Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior Minister Rev. Alyson Jacks, Associate Minister Rochelle Fortier Nwadibia, Worship Associate 2019-01-2224 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 47: Jennifer Jakobi, PhD, Associate Dean & WWEST Associate Chair (UBCO)Danniele sits down with Jennifer Jakobi, PhD, newly appointed WWEST Associate Chair at the University of British Columbia Okanagan. They cover subjects such as how to give students the opportunity to empower themselves, what Jennifer does as the WWEST Associate Chair, why she's so fascinated by her neuromuscular research, and what can help STEM professionals move forward in their careers successfully. Dr. Jennifer Jakobi is an associate professor at the School of Health and Exercise Sciences and Associate Dean of Academic Programs for the Faculty of Health and Social Development at the University of British Columbia's Okanagan...2019-01-2242 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 46: Leigh Joseph, Ethnobotanist & Community ActivistIn this episode, we hear from Leigh Joseph about collaborative work at a community level, observing people out on the land and learning their stories that connect them to their place. Leigh talks about how having a more Indigenous presence in ethnobotany is key to community collaboration, and how researching traditional Indigenous plant medicine can help Indigenous communities return to their cultural practices and build a foundation for healing and self-care at a community and cultural level. Leigh Joseph (Styawat) is an ethnobotanist, researcher and community activist. She is from the Squamish First Nation and she works...2019-01-0842 min

Sermons-First Unitarian Universalist Society of San FranciscoHoly FamiliesHoly Families (December 23, 2018) We'll gather the day after this to tell the ancient story of love made real in a particular infant, and yet as Unitarian religious educator Sophia Lyon Fahs taught, "Each night a child is born is a holy night." We might even say that every child, every person, every family is a miracle. In this multi-generational Sunday morning service, we celebrate families of many types, each statistically unlikely collections of stardust, DNA, histories and former strangers that miraculously came to be. Shari Halliday-Quan, Ministerial Intern Rev. Vanessa Rush Southern, Senior...2018-12-3115 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 45: Marcia MacDonald, PhD, Deputy Director, World Anti-Doping AgencyMarcia MacDonald, PhD, chats with host Danniele this week about working at the World Anti-Doping Agency. You'll hear about how her work helps to implement more efficient processes in the Athlete Biological Passport Program or ABP. But you'll also hear about Marcia's life as a woman in STEM - how relocating from Vancouver to Montreal for her career has been, and what she is most passionate about outside of work (hint: it involves activism in a big, worldwide issue that we are all familiar with - but you'll have to listen to find out more!). Marcia MacDonald i...2018-12-1834 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 44: Leslie Leong, Civil Engineer & Visual ArtistIt's time for another Yukon-focused Best of the WWEST episode! Host Alison Anderson talks with Leslie Leong about whether or not new technology really simplifies our lives, whether or not we should separate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) from the arts, and what needs to be done to advance women in STEM. Plus, you'll hear about some really cool art projects that Leslie has completed and is currently working on. Leslie Leong is a Civil Engineer and visual artist living and working in Whitehorse, Yukon. She makes art in many forms, often with a technical focus and...2018-12-0238 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 43: Bella Kazwell, Web Engineering Lead, AsanaIn this episode, Bella Kazwell, Web Engineering Lead at Asana, a leading web-based work management system, tells host Danniele about her work at Asana. She describes how she got her dream job and gives advice for all STEM professionals. You'll also learn about the struggles she has faced - and overcome - as a woman in tech. Bella Kazwell is the Web Engineering Lead at Asana, with more than 15 years of experience in engineering roles. She has spent the past seven years on the engineering team of Asana, building products to empower teams to thrive. Fo...2018-11-2032 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 42: Kai Scott, Principal Partner, TransFocus ConsultingHere at Westcoast Women in Engineering, Science and Technology, we don’t just focus on increasing the presence of women in STEM. We focus on increasing diversity in STEM overall, and this week’s episode looks at one piece of the diversity puzzle: how to support trans and non-binary people in the workplace. Danniele is joined by Kai Scott, Principal Partner at TransFocus Consulting, to discuss how organizations can be the best employers they can for trans and non-binary folks. Kai tells us how expanding the binary within a workplace is beneficial for everyone, and how taking steps towards examining one’...2018-10-3142 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 41: Aerin Jacob, PhD, Ecologist, Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation InitiativeIn this episode, WWEST manager Danniele speaks with Aerin Jacob all about the importance of diversity in STEM, but especially in ecology and conservation. Aerin tells us about her hopes to include new ideas and other ways of knowing in conservation, how and why she wakes up feeling inspired every day, and how her work is positively affecting the world at large. Aerin joined us remotely from Canmore, Alberta; please forgive the occasional audio hiccup from our remote recording. Aerin's E-mail address (remove spaces): aerin @ y2y . net Aerin Jacob is a Conservation...2018-10-2241 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 40: Carmen Wong, PhD, Ecologist Team Leader, Kluane National ParkIn yet another Yukon-focused episode, Alison Anderson speaks with Carmen Wong all about ecology. You'll find out that it's about more than just trees and bears! Plus, you'll hear Carmen's views on what role scientists should play in communities, her experiences working closely with First Nations elders, and her advice for anyone hoping to enter STEM and ecology. Carmen Wong is the Ecologist Team Leader at Kluane National Park and Reserve. She has a PhD in Forest Ecology from the University of British Columbia. At Kluane, she oversees the park’s monitoring, which includes Dall’s sheep, moun...2018-10-1032 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 39: Jessica Lu, Corporate AnalystIn this episode, Jessica takes us along on her past journeys to Ireland, China, and Rome through her memories and the life lessons she learned. We learn about what it's like to study science in university, why she loves working at Genome BC, and her passion for science communication. Jessica also gives some simple, yet poignant advice to students new to university: “Try new things.” Jessica Lu is a Corporate Analyst at Genome BC. In her role, Jessica supports relationships with key stakeholders by providing measuring outcomes and impacts of funded programs. For a full tran...2018-10-0242 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 38: Rachel Nelson, Marine Mammal TrainerWhat's Rachel Nelson's favourite part of her job? The otters, of course! Join host Danniele as she chats with Rachel about landing her dream job at the Vancouver Aquarium, how you can help combat pollution in the ocean, and building relationships with animals. Plus, you’ll find out how pole dance fitness classes actually pair nicely with her work as a marine mammal trainer. Rachel Nelson is a Marine Mammal Trainer at the Vancouver Aquarium. She is currently a sea otter trainer but loves working with animals of all kinds. For a full transcription of th...2018-09-1834 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 37: Jocelyn Joe-Strack, PhD Student, Land Use Planning and First Nations StudiesIn this episode of Best of the WWEST: Yukon Edition, Alison Anderson chats with Jocelyn Joe-Strack about going back to the land. Jocelyn tells us how she thinks about the First Nations way in her work strengthening the land planning process in the Yukon. She talks about finding the best solutions for all parties involved as First Nations rebuild and heal from the experiences of colonialism and residential schools. You'll also find out little tidbits about Jocelyn, such as her nickname for her husband and what she would bring with her if she were stranded on a deserted island! 2018-08-3042 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 36: Danniele Livengood, Program Manager, WWESTBest of the WWEST producer Vanessa interviews WWEST Program Manager Danniele about what got her into STEM, why she loves the work she does at WWEST, and what it takes to run such a program. She also gives insight into working with various non-profit entities and how their activities can work in tandem with WWEST's goals. Plus, you'll learn fun facts such as what her favourite activity was at summer camp and how she defines success. Danniele Livengood is the Program Manager of Westcoast Women in Engineering, Science and Technology (WWEST) at Simon Fraser University, operating under t...2018-08-2146 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 35: Colleen Legzdins, PhD, Entrepreneur & Metals and Materials EngineerHow does someone who hates math and science with no role models of women in STEM end up as a Metals and Materials Engineer? Colleen Legzdins will tell you all about it in this interview with WWEST Manager Danniele. Rest assured - if you are interested in STEM but not much interest in science and math, you can still have a successful and rewarding STEM career, as Colleen demonstrates with her story. You'll learn how she pursued her education while starting a family, the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, and making a real difference for the environment with her work. 2018-08-0737 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 34: Kirsten Hogan, Environmental EngineerAlison Anderson, the WWEST Associate Chair at Yukon College, interviews Kirsten Hogan and asks the real questions: What challenges does the Yukon face when it comes to environmental engineering, especially mining and environmental reclamation? Why is it important to get more women engineers registered across Canada? And just why does she love the Yukon anyway? Kirsten has over 15 years of experience in Environmental Engineering with a focus on contaminated sites management and remediation, and greenhouse gas emissions quantification and management. For a full transcription of this episode, click here. Relevant Links: Aperture Co...2018-07-2420 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 33: WWEST Celebrates LGBT STEM DayOn July 5th, WWEST Manager Danniele and Best of the WWEST Producer Vanessa visited the Telus World of Science for the First International Day of LGBTQ+ People in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math! (Short name: LGBT STEM Day.) Vanessa chats with other organizations who took part in this event to help raise awareness and increase support for LGBTQ+ people in STEM and finds out what brought them there and why they find it important. You'll hear from a variety of great organizations directly and indirectly related to STEM fields, and you can visit their websites by clicking the links below. 2018-07-2425 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 32: Stacey Mulcahy, Principal Program Manager, the Garage, MicrosoftIf you're looking for some insight into Microsoft's employee engagement, look no further. In this episode, Stacey Mulcahy tells us all about working at The Garage at Microsoft - why she loves it, what she does, and how maker spaces like The Garage can bring community together. She also describes what it's like being "a prototype" and how she defines success for herself. Stacey Mulcahy is the Principal Program Manager of the Garage at Microsoft Vancouver. She’s an international speaker and teacher and spent many years working in the digital agency space as a developer. She enj...2018-07-1044 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 31: Dawn MacDonald, Institutional Research and Planning Officer, Yukon CollegeChickens in the kitchen, positron beams, and asking big questions about the universe - you will hear about all of these things in this episode with Dawn MacDonald. Alison Anderson, WWEST Associate Chair at Yukon College, interviews Dawn in this next installment of Best of the West: Yukon Edition. Dawn MacDonald earned her Bachelors in Applied Mathematics with a Theoretical Physics concentration at the University of Western Ontario in 1997, and was the only woman in many of her classes at that time. She benefited from mentorship by faculty in the Space Physics department and Positron Beam laboratory...2018-06-1919 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 30: Dr. Lori Brotto, Psychologist & ProfessorIn this episode, Danniele speaks with Dr. Lori Brotto about her career in psychology and gynaecology and how they can intersect. She gives a glimpse into her research and her newly published book, Better Sex Through Mindfulness. In addition, you'll hear about how she survived her early years in university, why it is so important for women to be informed about their sexual health, and how collaboration and networking can be extremely helpful in a career. Dr. Lori Brotto is a professor in the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of British Columbia. She conducts re...2018-06-1938 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 29: Angelica Lim, PhD, A.I. RoboticistCome along with Dr. Angelica Lim and Best of the WWEST host Danniele on a windy journey through Angelica's discovery of computing science and her passion for robots! Angelica talks about her studies taking her all over the globe and how she settled in at Simon Fraser University. You'll also find out how robots can connect people in a "human-like and grounded way." Angelica is an Assistant Professor of Professional Practice in Computing Science at Simon Fraser University, who has studied and worked in robotics for over 10 years in Canada, France and Japan. She has been featured on...2018-06-0531 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 28: Deanna Burgart, IndigeneerIn the second installment of Best of the WWEST's Yukon Edition, WWEST Associate Chair Alison Anderson sits down with Deanna Burgart to discuss her work integrating Indigenous traditional knowledge in engineering. Listen for her tips for getting young people engaged in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and a little sample of a song that will help you remember the quadratic formula! Deanna Burgart is the President and COO of Indigenous Engeering Inclusion, Inc. She is a self-proclaimed "Indigeneer" and President of Indigenous Engineering Inclusion Inc. In addition to being co-founder of Empowered Innovation Enterprise, she...2018-05-2326 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 27: Gail Anderson, PhD, Forensic EntomologistIn this episode, WWEST manager Danniele chats with Dr. Gail Anderson about bugs and other animals, a career in forensics that makes a real difference in the world, and the benefits of university if one chooses to attend. Gail also reveals how she achieves work/life balance, her journey from a young forensic entomologist to professorship, and the importance of being a mentor to young people in STEM. Gail holds a Burnaby Mountain Endowed Professorship at Simon Fraser University. She is a forensic entomology consultant to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and Municipal Police across Canada...2018-05-0842 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 26: Halimat Alabi, Interactive Visualization DesignerOur guest of this episode, Halimat Alabi, has been many places and done many things. Listen as she brings us along on her journey through video game design, film and television, and research and teaching, with lots of laughs and poignant moments. She also gives advice for achieving work-life balance, including balancing family and career, and gives us insight into cutting edge visual analytics research. Formally trained as an engineer, Halimat describes herself as an interactive visualization designer. She is currently an instructor for the Art Institute and doing visual learning analytics research at Simon Fraser University...2018-04-2437 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 25: Katie Aitken, PhD, Ornithologist, Yukon CollegeWWEST Associate Chair Alison Anderson hosts this episode with Dr. Katie Aitken and speaks to her about bird watching, practicing science in the Yukon, and even what birds can teach us about climate change. This episode is the first in a series by WWEST's Associate Chair at Yukon College in Whitehorse, YT. This series gives listeners a glimpse of the lively STEM community in the Great White North. Dr. Katie Aitken is an instructor in the School of Science at Yukon College in Whitehorse, Yukon, and is an adjunct professor in the Department of Renewable...2018-04-1025 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 24: Judy Myers, PhD, Professor Emerita, ZoologyWhat was it like to rub elbows with the first Canadian women pioneering for other women's place in STEM? From the early days of the Society for Canadian Women in Science and Technology (SCWIST) to witnessing the early days of the NSERC Chairs for Women in Science and Engineering, Dr. Judy Myers has seen a lot in her long career in Zoology. She covers topics such as raising a family while working full time in STEM, how to elevate women's status in STEM, and time saving tips for achieving work-life balance. Dr. Judy Myers is currently Professor...2018-03-2734 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 23: Zhila Pirmoradi, PhD, Industrial EngineerHear all about improving processes at the City of Vancouver, industrial engineering, and mentoring immigrant women in STEM in this interview with Zhila Pirmoradi, PhD. She'll also share why she gladly lets her professional life be present in her spare time and how she dealt with being a new immigrant to Canada, as well as how she happened to find herself studying Mechatronic Systems Engineering at Simon Fraser University. Zhila Pirmoradi is an Industrial Engineer who has her PhD in Mechatronic Systems Engineering from Simon Fraser University. Passionate to utilize her research in industry, as a Business...2018-03-1333 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 22: Holly Burton, Leadership Coach Holly Burton joins WWEST manager Danniele with her "awkward turns of phrase" (her words!) and fills us in on leadership coaching, her passion for elevating women in male-dominated fields, and everything from how she copes with stress to her thoughts on the mining industry. She also lets us in on a not-so-secret tidbit: Very few people know what they want to be when they grow up. Holly Burton is a leadership coach for women in male-dominated industries. She works one-on-one with ambitious women to help them get promoted and create the careers they actually want in industries t...2018-02-2642 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 21: Best of the WWEST Highlight ReelBest of the WWEST producer Vanessa showcases highlights from the podcast! You'll hear from many of our guests about their successes, as well as their struggles and how they overcame them. They'll also give advice for STEM professionals and students in STEM, plus some extra tidbits including some exciting work being done to engage women and girls in STEM and how our guests experience work-life balance. For a full transcription of this episode, click here. Hosted by: Vanessa Reich-Shackelford Theme Music: “Positive and Fun” by Scott Holmes Produced by: Vanessa Reich-Shackelford Please...2018-02-1332 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 20: Rahael Jalan, PhD, Founder, Eagles of TomorrowRahael Jalan, PhD, joins Danniele to discuss her journey from India to Canada, where she settled to help Aboriginal youth excel in mathematics. She speaks about traveling the world to do her work, how she entered mathematics as a student in India, and her passion for sharing the gift of education with those less fortunate. Rahael Koshy Jalan is the founder/director of "Eagles of Tomorrow Education Society." Eagles of Tomorrow’s mission is to provide a comprehensive program in mathematics fundamentals for success in STEM and other areas of learning which require a solid foundation in math...2018-01-2327 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 19: Angie Byron, Drupal Core CommitterJoin WWEST manager Danniele for a lively interview with Angie Byron. Topics include the vast world of open source programming, how Drupal and open source can change the world for the better, and Angie's mission to push some of that change forward. You'll also find out little tidbits about Angie in her life outside of Drupal. Angie Byron is the Senior Director of Product and Community Development at Acquia. She is also a Drupal core committer, recipient of the Google-O'Reilly Open Source Award for Best Contributor, co-author of the O'Reilly book Using Drupal, and an open source...2018-01-0942 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 18: Negar Roghanian, PhD Student, Civil EngineeringIn this interview, Negar Roghanian tells us all about her life as a PhD student in Civil Engineering at the University of British Columbia. You'll hear about Negar's work producing a coating material that extends the life span of concrete pipes, her journey from her home country of Iran to Canada, and her passion for creating sustainable, eco-friendly materials that will support infrastructure for decades to come. Negar Roghanian is a research assistant and PhD candidate at the SIERA (sustainable infrastructure research) group at UBC as part of the department of Civil engineering. Her research focuses on...2017-12-1925 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 17: Jo Miller, Founder, Be LeaderlyJo Miller chats with WWEST manager Danniele about sponsorship versus mentorship. What does it mean to have a sponsor? How is a mentor different? And how can this propel women in technology so they can lead and thrive as women of influence? This President's Dream Colloquium minisode is chock full of advice and inspiration for any woman who is striving to be more of a leader in their field. Jo founded Be Leaderly after meeting too many women with leadership potential that outshone their current positions. In her day job, Jo is CEO of Women’s Leadership Co...2017-11-1621 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 16: Dr. Danielle Gaucher, Social Psychology Professor, University of WinnipegAs part of the President's Dream Colloquium, Danniele speaks with Dr. Danielle Gaucher all about gendered language in job advertisements - how does gendered language influence women's participation in STEM? How does social science research help to implement best practices in creating job advertisements? And how is visual attention a part of gendered language? Listen to find out! Danielle Gaucher (PhD, University of Waterloo) is an Associate Professor of Psychology and Director of the Intergroup Relations and Social Justice Laboratory at the University of Winnipeg, MB, Canada. She studies how social inequality is maintained at individual and i...2017-11-1515 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 15: Leigh Wall, Apprentice Truck and Transport MechanicThis week, we are joined by Leigh Wall, Apprentice Truck and Transport Mechanic, Student Recruiter, and Public Speaker. Hear all about Leigh's passion for engaging women and girls in Trades, her advice for women and girls who are considering those Trades, and fun facts like her favourite word (which goes a little skin deep!). Plus, Leigh relays her experiences in her apprenticeship program as the only woman out of 15 participants. Leigh Wall is a Student Recruitment Specialist at Vancouver Community College, as well as an Apprentice Truck and Transport Mechanic. As a natural progression and out of...2017-11-0638 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 14: Dr. Steven Spencer, Psychology Professor, Ohio State UniversityIt's time for another mini episode as part of the President's Dream Colloquium, this time with Dr. Steven Spencer, Psychology Professor and Robert K. and Dale J. Weary Chair in Social Psychology at The Ohio State University. Danniele chats with Dr. Spencer about the exciting work he and others at the Engendering Success in STEM Consortium are undertaking to create environments in which women and girls can reach their true, actual potential in STEM. Dr. Spencer is the Robert K. and Dale J. Weary Chair in Social Psychology at The Ohio State University. Dr. Spencer does research on...2017-10-1314 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 13: Jane Gachuche, Fire Safety Engineer in TrainingFire Safety Engineering, big families, and coming to Canada from Kenya to study and work - these are all topics covered in this interview between WWEST manager Danniele and Jane Gachuche, consultant and Fire Safety Engineer in Training. Plus, get Jane's advice for students and young STEM professionals (sneak peek: she loves co-op programs!) and hear how she has navigated being a woman in STEM - both in university and beyond. Jane is a project consultant in building and fire safety engineering at Jensen Hughes Consulting in Richmond, BC. Jane earned her degree in Civil Engineering from...2017-09-2929 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 12: Shari Graydon, Founder, Informed OpinionsAs part of the President's Dream Colloquium, WWEST manager Danniele chats with Shari Graydon of Informed Opinions for this minisode. Shari, an award-winning author, advocate, and speaker on the topic of women in media and advertising, shines light on the statistics of expert women participation in the media and lets us in on the exciting future initiatives of Informed Opinions. You can see Shari's talk at the Colloquium here. An award-winning author, advocate and speaker with 25 years of experience on both sides of the microphone, Shari Graydon founded and currently leads Informed Opinions, a non-profit project of...2017-09-2513 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 11: Dr. Maria Klawe, President, Harvey Mudd CollegeBest of the WWEST welcomes Dr. Maria Klawe, president of Harvey Mudd College in Claremont, California. Danniele chats with Maria in this minisode about how she ended up in a STEM field, her most memorable moments as a former chairholder of WWEST at UBC from 1997-2003, and how one can successfully balance a demanding career and family obligations. Dr. Maria Klawe joined Harvey Mudd from Princeton University after serving 14 years at the University of British Columbia. Dr. Klawe is a renowned lecturer and has given talks at international conferences, national symposia, and colleges across the U.S. a...2017-09-1816 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 10: Cybele Negris, CEO, Webnames.caBest of the WWEST chats with Cybele Negris, CEO of Webnames.ca. What have been her most memorable moments in her career? What does she do to achieve work-life balance? And what is her dirty little secret? Find out in this episode! You'll also learn about board governance, what her university experience was like, and her advice for students and young people who are heading into university and the workforce. Cybele Negris is CEO & Co-Founder of Webnames.ca, Canada’s original .CA Registrar and accredited registrar for hundreds of domain extensions as well as provider of webhosting, em...2017-09-0145 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 9: Anne Simon, PhD, Virologist and "X-Files" Science AdvisorWWEST Assistant Coordinator and new host, Vanessa, sits down with Anne Simon, PhD, a virologist, professor at the University of Maryland, and the Science Advisor for the "X-Files" television series. Dr. Simon gives an overview of her work and laboratory, gives advice for both students and professors in STEM, and speaks about her greatest accomplishments. We also get a small glimpse into the new and exciting "X-Files" season, and fun facts such as who - dead or alive - she would like to have dinner with. This episode is a cross-over with Not Another X-Files Podcast Podcast. 2017-08-1843 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 8: Janet Fraser, PhD, BC Green Party MLA CandidateDanniele interviews Janet Fraser, PhD, BC Green Party MLA candidate. Janet lets us into her world of serving as a Trustee with the Vancouver School Board, studying chemistry and working as a project leader and manager of clinical trials; and juggling career and family. Janet dispenses advice to young STEM professionals and students, and gives us a rare glimpse into STEM in Vancouver schools. Janet Fraser, PhD, was born in the UK and earned Chemistry B.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees from the University of Bristol. Since then she has been an academic researcher, a...2017-08-0931 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 7: Victoria Camp, Geological EngineerThis episode we're talking to Victoria Camp, an Engineer in Training working in geological engineering at BGC Engineering Inc. She talks to us about getting to explore many different facets of geological engineering, what her time at university was like, and the places she loves to travel (for work and fun!). Listen for her advice to young STEM professionals and students, and a fun fact about herself that up to this point, not many people have known! Victoria is a geological engineer with BGC Engineering Inc, a geotechnical consulting firm based in Vancouver. In the past two y...2017-07-1739 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 6: Gordana Pejic, Software EngineerDanniele speaks with Gordana Pejic, a software engineer originally from Serbia, who immigrated to Canada to receive a masters degree in Software Systems. She fills us in on her volunteer work with the Society for Canadian Women in Science and Engineering (SCWIST), her future plans, and her exciting work developing software for autonomous vehicles. Make sure to listen for the lightning round, where she reveals what she wishes her superpower could be, and the one food she would eat for the rest of her life! Gordana Pejic received her B.Sc in Electrical Engineering from the University of...2017-07-0445 min

Alpine Valley School PodcastBelongingWhat does it mean to belong at school? How can a young person’s life be shaped by the unique brand of support and acceptance available in democratic schools like Alpine Valley? These are the questions host Missa Gallivan takes on in episode 4. Her guest, Vanessa Reich-Shackelford is an AVS graduate who talks about her experience as a teenager at Alpine Valley School and how finding a community that saw her and accepted her for who she was helped shape her young life and propelled her into a successful academic career. Links mentioned on the sho...2017-06-2938 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 5: WWEST Goes to the YukonRecently, WWEST Chairholder Dr. Lesley Shannon took a trip to the Yukon to visit women engineers who are part of an initiative called 30 by 30, a commitment made by Engineers Canada, in collaboration with the 12 provincial and territorial engineering regulators, to raise the percentage of newly licensed engineers who are women to 30% by the year 2030. Women make up more than half of the Canadian population, but are significantly under-represented in the engineering profession; less than 12% of practicing licensed engineers are women. Join Dr. Shannon as she speaks with two successful women engineers, Sandra MacDougall and Alison Anderson, in a sp...2017-06-2621 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 4: Christiana Cheng, PhD, Research AssociateBest of the WWEST host Danniele interviews Christiana Cheng, PhD, Research Associate at the Rick Hansen Institute. Christiana talks about her undergraduate and graduate degrees in biology at Simon Fraser University and fellowship in Japan, lets us in on the favourite parts of her field (hint: it involves a strong network between provinces and hospitals), offers advice for students of science (take your time!), parents of scientists (give your kids equal opportunities), and future scientists alike; and reveals her tips for dealing with stress. Christiana is a Research Associate at the Rick Hansen Institute where she works...2017-06-1331 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 2: Justine Munich, PhD StudentThis week, we speak with Justine Munich, a PhD student in physics at Simon Fraser University who also works with the ALPHA Collaboration at CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research). Justine fills us in on the truth about life in academia from the perspective of a woman in STEM. She candidly tells us about her struggles, but also about her successes and proudest moments. Find out what furry friend she hangs out with in her spare time, what her favourite book is, and how her career is relating to the world at large. Justine is a...2017-04-2539 min

Best of the WWESTEpisode 1: Cole Brown, Web DeveloperOn the very first episode of Best of the WWEST, host Danniele talks to Cole Brown, lead front-end web developer at iamota, about how she got into web development, some of the challenges she faced breaking into the tech industry, and her secret superpowers (which include sewing, cat training, and swimming)! Cole is the lead front-end web developer at iamota, a full service digital agency recognized as one of BC’s fastest growing companies. She has worked in the industry for over 15 years, and is passionate about empowering technology users while they browse the web. For a...2017-04-0744 min