Join us for our 125th episode, as we dive into the richness of Indigenous wisdom, as revealed by our cherished guest, the acclaimed artist, Roy Henry Vickers. From his birthplace, the ancient village of Kitkatla, Roy Henry Vickers guides us through a narrative brimming with ancestral Indigenous wisdom. Aaron Pete's conversation with him explores not only timeless teachings but also his personal experiences. Aaron Pete and Roy Henry Vickers delve into his unique perspective as a colorblind artist, his battle with trauma, the struggles in sharing his art, and his path to recovery.Roy Henry Vickers is a renowned Canadian artist, born in June 1946, who has created a significant impact through his blend of traditional First Nations imagery and contemporary techniques. His art reflects his Tsimshian, Haida, and Heiltsuk descent and a profound connection to the land. In addition to his artistic achievements, Vickers is a public speaker on creativity, healing, and spiritual growth, and he has received honors such as the Order of British Columbia and the Order of Canada for his contributions to art and Indigenous rights.Send us a textEye-Opening Moments PodcastEye-Opening Moments are stories of adversity, encounters, and perspectives. They are...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showwww.biggerthanmepodcast.com

Join, Aaron Pete, and guest Teresa Liu-Ambrose, a renowned physical therapy professor at the University of British Columbia, as they delve into the  vital importance of physical exercise, particularly for the elderly, and the essential roles that cardio, strength training, diet, and sleep hygiene play in maintaining overall health. From debunking common myths about melatonin and nightcaps to examining the effects of COVID-19 on the brains of aging adults, Teresa Liu-Ambrose provides insights on safe exercises that are key to preserving cognitive functions as we age.Dr. Teresa Liu-Ambrose, PhD, PT, Professor, is a physical therapist and a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Healthy Aging at the University of British Columbia, Department of Physical Therapy. She is Co-Director of the Centre for Aging SMART at Vancouver Coastal Health and is Director of Vancouver Falls Prevention Clinic. Dr. Liu-Ambrose’s research focuses on understanding the role of exercise in promoting cognitive and mobility outcomes in older adults. Her research findings have been implemented into clinical practice, community programs, and international practice guidelines or recommendations to promote healthy aging. She is a fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences and a member of The College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists, Royal Society of Canada.Send us a textEye-Opening Moments PodcastEye-Opening Moments are stories of adversity, encounters, and perspectives. They are...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showwww.biggerthanmepodcast.com

Join today's Bigger Than Me episode with former Chief Dana Tizya-Tramm and host Aaron Pete as they journey through resilience, childhood trauma recovery, and leading community activism for climate change and justice. This enriching conversation explores Dana's connection with ancestry, the influence of indigenous governance, the complexities of indigenous justice, and the impact of climate change. Dana Tizya-Tramm, a prominent indigenous leader, has been honored for his service as a Former Chief and his current role as a Yukon school board trustee. His remarkable efforts in Yukon's education system, coupled with his staunch advocacy for indigenous rights and climate justice, have secured his position among the TIME 100, recognizing him as one of the world's most influential individuals.Send us a textEye-Opening Moments PodcastEye-Opening Moments are stories of adversity, encounters, and perspectives. They are...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showwww.biggerthanmepodcast.com

Prepare to be enchanted by the power of storytelling as Aaron sits down with Amanda Peters, an esteemed author and professor with a deep connection to her ancestral roots and culture. In this captivating discussion, Amanda shares her journey to becoming a writer and the importance of community and identity in her art. From her inspiring family support to an exclusive sneak peek into her innovative creative process behind her novel, "The Berry Pickers," Amanda's transformative approach to writing and inspiration drawn from a conversation with an artist will leave you spellbound.Amanda Peters is an author and serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of English and Theatre at Acadia University in Wolfville, Nova Scotia.Send us a textEye-Opening Moments PodcastEye-Opening Moments are stories of adversity, encounters, and perspectives. They are...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showwww.biggerthanmepodcast.com

This week Aaron sits down with Member of Parliament Joyce Murray to explore her impactful journey. From her early work in reforestation to her pivotal roles in British Columbia Provincial politics and Canadian Federal Politics, this episode provides a deep insight into Joyce's dedication and service.Joyce Murray is a Canadian politician and Member of Parliament (MP) known for her diverse contributions to environmental stewardship and governance. Co-founder of a reforestation company in British Columbia, she transitioned into provincial politics, serving in various cabinet positions. Elected as an MP in 2008, Murray's dedication to sustainable development, climate change solutions, and community well-being has marked her as a significant figure within the Liberal Party. Her career illustrates a blend of entrepreneurial spirit and political leadership at both provincial and federal levels, reflecting a commitment to responsible environmental and social practices.Send us a textEye-Opening Moments PodcastEye-Opening Moments are stories of adversity, encounters, and perspectives. They are...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showwww.biggerthanmepodcast.com

We invite you to take a seat and get to know Lorne Cardinal - Cree community member, seasoned actor, dedicated director, and skilled producer. You'll be captivated as we journey through the intriguing world of acting, exploring Lorne's unique methods, from the Pachinko Clown Method to European style theatre training. The stage is set for an engaging discussion of Lorne's most recognized work - Corner Gas. Uncover the story behind his famous phrase “all right, exciting” and delve into the deep impact it has had on audiences across the nation. We also touch on the often overlooked challenge of typecasting and the emotional complexity of closing a chapter in one's career. The curtain falls as Lorne shares his plans for his YouTube channel, where he'll share stories from writers and poets who've made a mark on him.But it's not all about the spotlight. We also talk about the pressing issue of Indigenous rights and Lorne's own experiences. He shares his perspective on the struggle, the importance of generational involvement, and his hopes for the future. This episode is a journey through the life of a passionate storyteller and his impact on the world of acting. So sit back, relax, and let Lorne Cardinal guide you through a world where narrative and character come to life.Send us a textEye-Opening Moments PodcastEye-Opening Moments are stories of adversity, encounters, and perspectives. They are...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showwww.biggerthanmepodcast.com

Julian Peterson, founder of the Essay App, discusses the tool's innovative features, importance of human input in creativity, parallels between writing and music, essay tips, and insights into challenging preconceptions. Explore the transformative power of the app for a captivating journey through words and ideas.

Dr. Elizabeth Gow, a research scientist and environmental advocate, answers the question of how many birds cats kill. Delve into the delicate balance of ecosystems and the profound impact of human actions on nature. Marvel at the fascinating world of bird migration and explore the crucial need for conservation amid ecosystem threats. Engage in thought-provoking discussions on the unique role of cats in our environment and their influence on bird populations.Send us a textEye-Opening Moments PodcastEye-Opening Moments are stories of adversity, encounters, and perspectives. They are...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showwww.biggerthanmepodcast.com

What if you could tap into a state of mind where time distorts, creativity overflows, and optimal performance is the norm? This is the realm we explore with Dr. Chris Bertram, a leading authority in learning and performance optimization, as we unravel the enigma of flow states. Aaron and Chris dive headfirst into how this heightened state of consciousness influences athletes, creatives, and business executives alike, exploring its origins, characteristics, and the tantalizing way it bends our perception of time. Their discussion takes a fascinating turn as they examine the ways in which flow states could be the antidote to modern-day struggles like burnout, imbalanced work-life, and achieving peak performance under high-pressure environments.They delve into the science of mental preparation, emphasizing the need to build a skillset to effectively manage pressure. Chris and Aaron debate the potential of innovative technologies — like a drone controlled by the mind — to enhance performance further. And, introduce you to the concept of micro flow experiences; those fleeting moments of complete presence that can be a real game-changer in learning and performance. Finally, the two discuss how goal setting can fuel our passions and the role of technology in self-improvement. And, of course, they reinforce the importance of nurturing a growth mindset. So, if you're ready to navigate the fascinating terrain of human performance, flow states, and their potential for personal and professional growth, join them for this enlightening conversation! It’s time to unlock your potential and find your flow.Chapters:0:00 Introduction3:35 Flow States Explained10:17 How to Enter a Flow State 20:30 Micro Flow Experiences33:58 Mental Performance & Breathing Techniques45:36 Working with Canadian Golfer Nick Taylor 52:46 Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Disorder 58:05 Parkinson's Disease1:00:44 How to Get Motivated Send us a textEye-Opening Moments PodcastEye-Opening Moments are stories of adversity, encounters, and perspectives. They are...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showwww.biggerthanmepodcast.com

Imagine being imprisoned at just 17 years old in a Sri Lanka prison camp and then miraculously finding your way to Canada, where you'd go on to become a successful executive. That's the incredible story of Roy Ratnavel, author of Prisoner Number 1056, who joins Aaron in this deeply inspiring conversation. Aaron Pete and Roy Ratnavel explore the importance of hard work, resilience, and staying true to one's values, as Roy shares his remarkable journey that highlights the power of hope and humanity even in the darkest situations.Together, Roy and Aaron discuss the challenges of populism, the strife and war that erupted in Sri Lanka, and the key message that people must see each other as humans and focus on our shared bonds. Roy reflects on his experiences in Canada, the kindness of strangers that touched his heart, and the importance of work-life balance, differentiating oneself in a competitive environment, and continuously striving for improvement. His story serves as a potent reminder of the potential for growth and success in the face of adversity.As the two wrap up our conversation, Roy shares his lessons in gratitude, balance, and recognizing the opportunities afforded to us in a free country. The endorsement of his book by Prime Minister Brian Mulrooney brings Roy's journey full circle, further solidifying the impact of his experiences on his outlook on life and the world around him.Send us a textEye-Opening Moments PodcastEye-Opening Moments are stories of adversity, encounters, and perspectives. They are...Listen on: Apple Podcasts   SpotifySupport the showwww.biggerthanmepodcast.com