The Sill

Due to the growing response and level of interest in our two part podcast series on Aging, in the Fall of 2022...

Part 1. TSP186 - PH Factor: Getting Older - Where to from here?

Part 2. TSP187 - PH Factor: Getting Older - Rediscovering the Self.

Link to TSP186: https://www.thesillpodcast.com/tsp186-ph-factor-getting-older-where-to-from-here/

Link to TSP187: https://www.thesillpodcast.com/tsp187-ph-factor-getting-older-rediscovering-the-self/

In this previous podcast episode, we dive into the history and cultural significance of profanity, exploring the origins and usage of various swear words, their impact on language and culture, and societal attitudes towards swearing. The discussion covers the association of profanity with gender, religion, and social behaviour, as well as its portrayal in literature and media. We also touch on the neurological aspects of swearing and its role in emotional expression.

Explicit content.

Duration - 35:17

Credits: Additional YouTube segment featuring swear words in different languages.

Tap link below for direct access:

TSP129 - 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…

Modern western medicine would be wise to embrace and integrate the traditional art of healing.

Duration - 27:53

Posted: February 19, 2018

HIghlights:
* Benefits of natural remedies and integrative medicine
* Importance of considering weight, lifestyle, and nutrition before medication
* Holistic and naturopathic treatments gaining popularity
* Criticism of profit motive in pharmaceutical industry and side effects of medications
* Limited focus on nutrition in medical education
* Benefits of garlic, oil of oregano, saltwater, vitamin E, and onion as natural remedies
* Personal experiences with homemade remedies
* Importance of preserving the jungle for medicinal resources
* Conflicting information from food companies and small farmers
* Importance of positive mindset and lifestyle choices in health and well-being

TSP214 - Do It Yourself Healing: Carrots versus chemicals. (TSP032 Revised) Modern western medicine would be wise to embrace and integrate the traditional art of healing.

From Spotify... Our most listened to podcast on Spotify.

TSP185 - PH Factor: The Confucius Way - K.I.S.S. realized.

Direct link to podcast: https://www.thesillpodcast.com/tsp185-ph-factor-the-confucius-way-kiss-realized/

1. Ever pondered the wisdom of Confucius? In this podcast we discuss how ancient insights on morality & social harmony are surprisingly relevant today, and the art of leading with kindness—a lesson from Confucius that still rings true.

2. We dive into the complex tapestry of Chinese culture, examining the pivotal role of family as seen through Confucian eyes, and explore how these age-old traditions shape personal identity and societal expectations.

3. Simplicity isn't just a lifestyle, it's wisdom passed down through the ages. Using the KISS principle, 'Keep It Simple Stupid,' or 'Keep It Simple and Straightforward', to put a more positive slant on the original phrasing, to help focus us on the power of living mindfully and embracing the present moment.

4. Have you heard about 'lagom'? This Swedish concept advocates for 'just the right amount,' and it's a topic we delved into, drawing parallels with Confucian balance. It's all about finding contentment in moderation.

5. Tech is fantastic, but what happens when it fails? In this podcast conversation we highlight the critical need for backup skills and self-reliance and reinforcing an age-old lesson: always be prepared.

Spotify has been expanding its audiobook offerings significantly. As of 2024, Spotify's audiobook catalog includes over 300,000 titles. The platform's integration of audiobooks into its existing music and podcast service aims to create a comprehensive audio content ecosystem for its users.

Spotify - Music, Podcasts & Audiobooks all conveniently available in one very well designed and easy to use App which automatically connects to your car, computer and all mobile devices...

1. Ever noticed how the presence of a smartphone can change the vibe of a room? We discuss the "brain drain" phenomenon. It’s not just about missing notifications; it’s about how these devices can lead to stress and even depression. Our reliance on smartphones is shaping our society in ways we're just starting to understand.

2. Have we become too dependent on our pocket-sized tech? We talk about the Swiss Army knife of the modern age: the smartphone. It's a great tool, but with great connectivity comes the risk of addiction and distracted driving. It pays to be mindful of how we use our technology.

3. AI is advancing at a breakneck pace, but are we ready for the implications? We explore the future of cell phones and the importance of keeping a watchful eye on artificial intelligence. It's crucial that we scrutinize these rapid developments to prevent misuse.

4. On a bus trip through Montreal, Harry witnessed a sea of screens and a drought of human interaction. We ponder the paradox of connection in the digital age on the latest podcast. How has our communication shifted and what does this mean for our real-life connections?

5. We share some of your frustration. Our podcast digs into the indirect communication takeover, from texts to emails, and how this affects our interpersonal relationships. Is the convenience of digital communication worth the potential intrusion into our lives?

TSP201 - PH Factor: Surviving The Lifeline - Cutting the cord. TSP201 - PH Factor: Surviving The Lifeline - Cutting the cord. Smartphones have become the Swiss Army knives of the 21st century, in that they provide one source ac…

TSP117 - 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 - 36:49

VoxBox: You Tube excerpts from 1970 - IBM Vintage Computers Promo Film - Historical Data Processing and The Myths of Big Data/Science Comedian Vince Ebert

Posted: February 3, 2020

TSP117 - 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 …

2024 marks the 20 year Anniversary of the Orangeville Blues and Jazz Festival... Founder Larry Kurtz talks about how it all began, on The Sill, in 2018...

TSP045 - 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 (2018) - https://www.thesillpodcast.com/tsp045-the-undefinable-spirit-blues-jazz-bops-into-town-16-years-of-musical-joy/

Orangeville Blues & Jazz: https://orangevillebluesandjazz.ca

Duration - 18:22

VoxBox: Miles Davis, Buddy Guy, BB King and Etta James

Music Credit: John Scofield - I Don’t Need No Doctor

TSP045 - 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.ca Duration - 18:22 VoxBo…

THE RESILIENCE OF INDEPENDENT PODCASTS

"While it’s true that some major players in the podcasting industry have faced setbacks, independent podcasts have continued to thrive. These grassroots creators epitomize the essence of podcasting – a platform where anyone with a microphone and a story can find an audience. Unlike traditional media, where gatekeepers control access, podcasting offers a level playing field for creators of all backgrounds and interests.

Independent podcasts often have loyal and engaged audiences, built through authenticity, niche content, and community engagement. Unlike corporate giants, these creators are nimble, able to pivot quickly in response to audience feedback, and can produce content with little to no budget. Moreover, they’re not beholden to shareholders or advertisers, allowing them to maintain creative control and pursue their passions without compromise."

In memory of Andrea Bird (died May 10, 2024), a compassionate, creative and truly human spirit, we once again offer up this extraordinary interview we had with her in 2019 - https://www.thesillpodcast.com/tsp101-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: https://andreabird.com
“Microdosing helped me come to terms with my own death”
https://torontolife.com/city/microdosing-helped-me-come-to-terms-with-my-own-death/

Duration - 30:22

VoxBox: William Shatner - from the CD ‘Has Been’

Music Credit: Belle Starr - This Must Be The Place

Posted: June 24, 2019

TSP101 - 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: https://a…

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https://open.spotify.com/show/5OaTHulheZMmM162b4bKXx?si=f0d4d7e3996c4b07

Over 600 million monthly users in 2024 and over 250 million paid subscribers in 2024.

TSP228 - Hernia Chronicles: Stories of Repair, Recovery, and Resilience

One 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://www.shouldice.com

Duration: 31:39

Posted: May 5, 2024

Highlights
* Inguinal hernia repairs
* Personal experiences and insights
* Surgical procedures and recovery processes
* Private vs public healthcare systems
* Informative details about hernias
* Addressing hernias and seeking medical help
* Different surgical procedures (mesh-free vs mesh repair)
* Recovery experiences and timelines
* Hospital experiences and level of care
* Insights and support for others going through similar experiences

TSP228 - Hernia Chronicles: Stories of Repair, Recovery, and Resilience One 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…

Our goal, in the recording of this coming Sunday's (May 5/24) podcast - TSP228 - Hernia Chronicles: Stories of Repair, Recovery, and Resilience, was to shed light on the condition and the surgical options available, providing insights and support to those who might be on a similar path.

If you or someone you know is dealing with an inguinal hernia, I hope our experiences can offer some guidance and reassurance. Remember, every case is unique, and it's essential to consult with medical professionals to determine the best course of action for your health.

Thank you for reading, and if you want to hear more about our experiences in detail, be sure to listen to the podcast episode. Stay informed, stay supported, and take care of your health.

Much of our listenership growth has been attributable to the overall interest and growth in the podcast industry, as it continues to rise.

In 2024, this format (podcasts) has attracted and surpassed 500 million active podcast listeners in the world. This accounts for roughly 1 out of every 4 people accessing the Internet.

"Hey, Peter, who's going to listen to us?"

"I'm not sure, Harry, but it seems we crossed the 80,000 listens/downloads mark a couple of days ago, for all our 228 episodes so far, so some people are listening."

Thanks to those of you that have and are listening, and to those of you that have let us know.

TSP227 - My Chess Memoir: Kyle Creamer

It’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.com

Duration: 37:07

Credit: Kyle Creamer reads an excerpt from his book ‘My Chess Memoir” and movie segment from ‘The Life Of A King’.

Posted: April 21, 2024

Highlights
* Strategic elements of the game of chess
* Experiences and insights of guest Kyle Creamer in competitive chess
* Mental and emotional challenges of competitive chess
* Kyle's experience with chess and its impact on his life
* Lessons learned from chess
* Self-publishing a book and advice for writers
* Challenges and rewards of promoting a book
* Supportive and engaging dynamic between podcast hosts and Kyle
* Anticipation of a chess match between Kyle and Harry

TSP227 - My Chess Memoir: Kyle Creamer It’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 Ope…

"Chess is like a story, where we are the authors of our destinations. Like every good chess move, in life remember to practice what you learn.

Often, in a game of chess you end up making the wrong moves and suffer the consequences a good number of times before you learn from your mistakes and gradually take the high road of excellence, just as in life, we learn to embrace challenges, to get up when we fall because every one of your mistakes will teach you a lesson that makes you even sturdier than you already are."

https://www.thesillpodcast.com/

TSP226 - A Defence of Poetry in the Digital Age

Following 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: 27:23

Credit: YouTube Segment with Mary Oliver - Wild Geese

Posted: April 7, 2024

Highlights
* Harry 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-publishing
* Harry shares insights on poetry, self-publishing, and the importance of poetry in modern times
* The conversation delves into the relevance of poetry in the digital age and the impact of self-publishing on the literary world
* Harry emphasizes the mystery and depth of poetry and its role in reconnecting people to the natural world and each other
* The discussion explores the evolution of language and the impact of consumer culture on communication
* Harry highlights the role of poetry in keeping language alive and authentic, countering the superficiality of modern communication
* The conversation extends to the process of self-publishing and the challenges and rewards of bringing one's work to the public
* Harry shares his motivation for releasing his latest book, 'Fractures,' and the significance of compiling his poetry into a cohesive collection
* Harry shares his website where his work is available for reading and purchase, and recites a line from one of his poems, leaving a lasting impression on the host and listeners

TSP226 - A Defence of Poetry in the Digital Age Following 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 ce…

Harry and I would like to thank you for your ongoing interest and contribution to a still growing listenership, which has significantly exceeded even our most optimistic expectations.

We're both very grateful and appreciative and will continue in our efforts to inform and entertain you, and ourselves, in the process.

https://www.thesillpodcast.com

Language is ever-evolving, but what happens when consumer culture starts scripting our conversations? Join Harry and I, as we examine how poetry serves as a lifeline to authenticity in communication. Through poetry, we find a defense against the superficialities that pervade our daily interactions. Harry shares his thoughts on the visceral nature of poetry and its power to challenge social issues offer a compelling perspective. Join us for a linguistic journey that reclaims the depth of our words, this Sunday, April 7, on TSP226 - A Defence of Poetry in the Digital Age.