PLEASE VISIT WWW.ELIANNALEV.COM - THIS SITE IS NO LONGER

THIS SITE IS NO LONGER BUT I LIVE ON, ONLINE...

2010-03-10T16:30:00.000-08:00

Blogspot has been fun but now I have a new, fancy real website: www.eliannalev.com

Yeah! It's finally happened!

Bookmark it. Check it out. Love it. I do.

Episode 21 - The Louise Burns Experience

2010-02-02T20:39:00.001-08:00

Click here to listen to Episode 21 of the People's Program Project.

Yah! As of Feb. 7th, the People's Program Project will be one year old! To celebrate, I asked the super sweet and immensely talented Louise Burns to join me for an afternoon of chatting and pomello eating. When Louise was in her teens, she played in the pop band Lillix, which gave her incredible experience and insight in the music industry. The lady's written music with Linda Perry! She's toured the world! She met Madonna! Now she does equally as exciting stuff, just on a different level. She's in the pop noir trio the Blue Violets and has a solo project called Moonshiner. Both are absolutely delightful. We talk about what it's like to live a pop star dream in your teens, the awesomeness that is Japan and experiencing true Hollywood weirdness. Expect to hear a lot more of this beautiful lady's voice in the very near future.

As for me, well, um, I'm a single mum now. I have a dog named Dutchess "Dutchie" Fancydance. (Pictured above.) She's a five-year-old Blue Heeler/Chihuahua cross and 100% snugglemuffin. I don't how how I got so lucky to get such a dream dog. She's very special. It's weird, though, having this little creature be absolutely infatuated with me. Not sure if I can get used to it. Now I know how all my ex-boyfriends felt.

Gonna try to work on podcast stuff in the near future but for now, your best place to get your fill of me and my stories is through my column with the Vancouver Observer. It's called I'm a Good Story and it's kinda like P3 but in written form. Just me chatting with rad people who are doing rad stuff. Fun stuff. Also, I have a Tumblr account, which is basically snapshots of my emo moments. And my website will be up and running soon, hopefully. Be sure to check back there when you can.

Thanks to everyone who's been listening this past year. And thanks to everyone who's taken part. It really means the world to me. Get in touch, write@eliannalev.com
I'd love to keep hearing your stories and sharing them with the podcast world.

Episode 20 - The Rape Whistle Fan Club Experience!

2010-01-04T18:49:00.001-08:00

Click here and or here to listen to Episode 20 of the People's Program Project.

Ayma and Elly here. We decided to trepidatiously launch our new project, which might be sketch comedy related. Comedy. What a word.

It's called Rape Whistle Fan Club and it's basically us doing a variety of stuff that makes us laugh and hopefully you too.

On this episode we debut the Scat Explosion, a talk show entirely inspired by Randy Bachman's CBC program Vinyl Tap. (Please click on that link. It's amazing.)

Thanks to our rowdy but enthusiastic studio audience, Karen Pinchin, Ben Frey and Cam MacLeod.

We're hoping to get on a bill for our live performance debut some time soon. We'll keep you posted via the Facebook fan page we'll inevitably create and force our friends to join.

Episode 19 - The Rain City Chronicles Experience Part Two

2009-12-20T14:57:00.001-08:00

Click here to listen to Episode 19 of the People's Program Project, featuring part two of Rain City Chronicles.

Here is the second half of the event I co-organized on Dec. 1st at Little Mountain Studios. It featured performances by...

Jenna Rogers, who sang a song (you can't really hear the guitar on the the podcast...sorry about that) and told a story about being in a band with a wizard, but I had to cut it out...

Vancouver Observer editor Linda Solomon, who talked about frenching a US president (!)...

Amanda McCuaig, who talked about taking her boyfriend home to Idaho and showing him what Republicans are really like...

Taz Van Rassel told a story about surviving life on the streets of Kitsilano (a fancy neighbourhood here in Vancouver) ...

Lizzy Karp told a story about growing up non-Mormon in Salt Lake City...

And our last performer Lisa Joyce, who talked about the first time she thought she was dying, with a fitting song to accompany it.

There was also a performance by the hilarious duo of Good Morning World, Pat Kelly and Pete Oldring. But the audio was sort fucked up so I couldn't really use it. Check them out on YouTube...they are super funny and talented.

Not sure when the next podcast will be out. Probably in the New Year. Until then, read my column and visit my Tumblr site, as those are easier to update. Happy holidays, y'all!

Episode 18 - The Rain City Chronicles Experience

2009-12-06T13:45:00.000-08:00

Click here to listen to episode 18 of the People's Program Project.

One of the things I've been working hard on recently is a storytelling night called Rain City Chronicles. We had our first event on December 1st at Little Mountain Studios. It was a great success. We've got nothing but really positive feedback and it seems like the city is ready for this kind of thing. We plan on doing it every season so the next one should be in March. This special episode of P3 features stories by CBC Radio 3's Grant Lawrence, who talked about his first experience with a pacific octopus...

Rain City Chronicles co-organizer and freelancer writer Karen Pinchin, who talked about her first time getting in a car with a stranger...

Sex guy and Manhussy's Cam MacLeod, who talks about the first time he realized girls go crazy when you've had sex with them...

Talent Time's Paul Anthony, who talks about his first parentless road trip...

And me. I told a story about the first time I sang with Belle and Sebastian on stage...

Music is by Basil Waugh...

I'll try to have the second half of the evening out in podcast format by next week. In the meantime, enjoy!

I'm a Good Story

2009-11-27T08:23:00.000-08:00

The Vancouver Observer is letting me write a column. It's gonna be weekly. Click here to read it. Follow along if you can! Also...

The first Rain City Chronicles storytelling night, which is being organized by Lizzy Karp, Karen Pinchin and myself, is happening on Tuesday, Dec. 1 at Little Mountain Studios. It is going to be amazing, to say the least. The theme is first, to honour our first event. I'm gonna try to record the night for my podcast so stay tuned.

Storytellers will include:

Paul Anthony
Lizzy Karp
Pat Kelly and Peter Oldring
Grant Lawrence
Ayma Letang
Elianna Lev
Karen Pinchin
Taz van Rassel
Linda Solomon

Featuring musical performances by:

Lisa Joyce
Jenna Rogers
Basil Waugh

That's Right

2009-11-17T18:38:00.000-08:00

To listen to the People's Program Project, click here.

It has been a while, hasn't it? I have been busier than ever and out of town so no hard feeling, alright?

Something very exciting is scheduled to happen either this week or next so stay tuned.

No podcast for a while longer but soon enough. I'm co-organizing a storytelling night at Little Mountain with some really great storytellers (myself included) on Dec. 1st but I'll promote that in more details when it's a little more organized. It's a-coming.

Ok, first off, our friends at Vancouver Is Awesome are doing a donation drive. Please consider donating 'cause they are, well, awesome. Very posicore, very community focused, very supportive. Awesome all around. Do it. Give them some money.

Next, we have some photos of my trip to NYC. It was very different than other trips - I was dealing with some internal emo issues, but luckily had some wonderful moments. Including...

Seeing my dear friend Sue and her wittle bacon-ette, Lucy. This wee little thing knows how to ask for crackers and drum sticks (as in the musical instrument, not the food) in sign language. She seriously knows how to drum. At 18 months. Not only is it incredibly cute but incredibly impressive.

Going to Rice to Riches, which is one of my favourite places on earth. I have a thing for rice pudding. They have a whole variety of flavours. It's worth a trip every few years.

Seeing my NYC friends, including my dear friend Bob. He's one of my favourite people of all time. I've known him for 10 years and it's always a blast of good vibes every single time I see him, regardless of how long it's been. Hanging out with him is a failsafe method to happiness. Also, his production company is putting out some very satisfying programming. Worth investing in cable for.

This girl is amazing. I spent a lot of time with her this time around and couldn't have asked for a better host. I found myself at very interesting, happening events that I wouldn't have otherwise. She also convinced me to get a $7.50 manicure, which was the best thing I could have ever done. (We'll get to that.)
Rachel and David put on such a beautiful wedding. So down-to-earth and downhome and unpretentious. They held it at the Polanise Terrace. And while the Poles aren't generally known for their exquisite taste (but those who have it, fucking have it,) the wedding made up for it in heart. And really, when it comes to a celebration of love, that's the only things that matter. Here's the beautiful, happy couple...

The next day they had a brunch for out-of-towners, which was at an authentic German beer hall. I was happy because there were plates of meat everywhere, and those were just the appetizers.

Then I stayed at a hotel called the Gershwin. It's the kind of place that sells itself on its decor, but the decor was horrendous. I have a feeling it was built by people who have no idea about taste or design or art but call things "funky." Luckily, the staff were fantastic and the location was great - right next to the equally as tacky and offensively stupid Sex Museum. Don't waste your time there. Here was my room -and my manicure, which I absolutely fell in love with. I couldn't (and can't) stop starting at it.

The weather was worse than Vancouver's pretty much the whole time I was there. That sucked. But luckily, on the last full day I was there, the rain stopped and I booted it to that big park in the middle of the city. I stumbled across a beautiful statue, called Romeo and Juliet (oh and my manicure again.)

The next morning was glorious so I got up early, hurried back to Central Park and found a statue that I've wanted to see since I was 14 and obsessed with Alice in Wonderland, after reading this book. Here it is (along with my manicure, again.)

Other highlights include: going to B EAST, which is a beautiful club thing, for some party thrown by Ryan McGinness, I believe. There were all these fancy big time artist and designer types (and Kelly Osbourne.) Unfortunately I was not prepared for such a party and felt shlepy and grumpy the whole night. But there was really fun music.

Seeing my good friend Lisa and checking out terrible comedy. We were more or less the only two people there and were heckled by the comedian on our way out.

Spending a lovely night with my friend Sam, wandering the West Village and having a good heart to heart.

So there. Glad I took the time to update things. These days I'm more prone to post things on Tumblr but I'll go back and forth till my site is finally up. Which won't be for a while. But when my exciting thingy is done in the next week or so, I'll surely let you all know. Lots to do until then. Please stay tuned.

Due to popular demand...

2009-11-03T10:54:00.000-08:00

Since I get so many hits on this site looking for anything Ali Liebert-related, I thought I'd treat you all to her auditioning for a role in a movie of the week, but as Liza! I hope she (as in Liza) gets the part.

Bookmark and check back often and frequently

2009-10-29T07:40:00.000-07:00

www.noneandonly.com

www.eliannalev.com

That's where all my links will be housed for now. At least until my full website is up. A big huge thank you to Sean Sullivan, master of everything he sets his mind to.

Not to confuse

2009-10-23T13:05:00.001-07:00

So I'm going to keep this blog for the People's Program Project and stuff related to my career and writing. My Tumblr will be for more personal blogging. I don't have time to do much (unpaid) podcasting until maybe December, unfortunately. (That's right. I'm currently getting paid to do a podcast. More details to come when that shit's done.)

I hope this isn't confusing. Let's keep it simple. For the People's Program Project and links to stuff I've published, we've got this blogspot. For stuff about my brain, go to Tumblr. Sometimes the two will collide. I hope to have it all in one spot: www.noneandonly.com but that won't be for a while yet.

Inspiration Vacation

2009-10-17T15:12:00.000-07:00

To listen to the People's Program Project, click here.

I decided to take a day out to do nothing at home. So I'm blogging.

I'm currently taking a business course and working on a huge contract and organizing an event and doing freelance, which has been a lot of work and a lot of stress. I generally haven't been fun to be around. However, the last few nights have helped me break from my general storm cloudy mood and allowed me to feel inspired again. On early Friday morning, I went to first screening of Where the Wild Things Are. It's probably one of the best films I've ever seen. I've had a begrudging crush on Spike Jonze since this video. I know he's all cool for school but that's probably why I like him.

The book has always resonated with me. I passed it along to my little friend Audrey (pictured above) for either her first birthday or Christmas. It's timeless, eloquent, poignant. (I'm not saying anything that hasn't been said before.) Anyhow, the movie is beautiful. The puppetry or whatever you call it is awe-inspiring. The acting is great. And the story spoke to me. I think it's 'cause I apparently have a mood disorder and it's all about moods and emotions and hard they are to control and understand. So there is my review.

Then, last night, my good friend Katie took me to Jay Z as a belated birthday present. (I've been celebrating all month, and don't continue to stop until Nov 1, when I'm attending David Sedaris as part of another rad birthday gift.) I don't know what to say about a man whose marketing plan includes likening himself to God. It was really fun and inspiring. I was taken by how, unlike Mr. Jonze, Hova was totally not too cool for school. He came across as positive and incredibly grateful towards the audience. He spent a good 10 minutes pointing out to members of the audience and telling them how happy he was that they were there. At one point he said "I don't know who, but someone here is going to change the world." And a good majority of the crowd believed him. Very nice. In honour of last night, here's my favourite Jay Z video. I love how his girl in the video dances.

Oh, and this girl was very impressive too. What a performer and what a voice. And what a body.

So yah! Inspired all around. Now I need some help. Antisocial had a Vans sample sale. I can't tell if these are too Hot Topic or just fun. They're totally not me but I'm trying to wear more colour:

Can't wait for tomorrow. I'm making brunch for my Common Wealth family - a total of six people and two wee ones.

Bad Realtor

2009-10-16T12:35:00.000-07:00

Gary Shlitz from ryan anderson on Vimeo.

Check out my eye acting debut! I was told to dress as a young, urban professional, which I interpreted as Kits wife, which meant Lulu Lemon and those horrendous Guess purses.

Gary Shlitz - Tazman Vanrassel
Director - Pat Kelly
Cinematography - Ryan Anderson
Camera Op - Ryan Anderson & Thom Stitt
Editor - Ryan Anderson

We're All Clearly Unstable

2009-10-13T21:38:00.000-07:00

To listen to the People's Program Project, click here.

I have never been busier than I am right now. It's hard to see how much I'm accomplishing, because I'm so consumed with my work, but I'm sure the payoff will be grand.

Lots going on. I've been working all night so I have to make this brief. I've included a couple of photos from my birthday roast. It was a really special and fun night. I felt a lot of love. My mum and best friend Chris were both in town for it too, making it extra special. My brain is currently fried. I need sleep. I will keep you posted when things are actually happening. The podcast will have to wait for a while as there's simply too much on my plate, but I certainly miss it.

By the way, I get a lot of traffic from people looking for the Peoples Program. (I highly recommend you watch the video on that link. I think it speaks pretty clearly.) I have nothing to do with the Peoples Program, which, btw, appears to be incredibly dodgy. But for those of you who stumble across my website looking for said "program," I really wish you all the best. Please, think clearly.

(Mini) Episode 17

2009-09-27T13:25:00.000-07:00

To listen to Episode 17 of the People's Program Project click here.

On this short episode, I talk about being called a whore and the conclusion I came to justifying it. I also spend a few minutes talking about my friend Zoë Verkuylen Blilie. She's a woman of many hats, and also a good friend of mine. Which is awesome. She happens to be one of the strongest, most positive women I know.

I met her years ago after doing a thingy for CBC Radio 3 about her band Red Light Sting. We became fast friends and started watching Top Model together every Wednesday. When I was going through a bad breakup, she'd regularly take me swimming at Eileen Dailly out in Burnaby. She's also a former gymnast and coach, and once took me to this bouncy gym that's full of stunt people just hanging out, practicing stunts. It was super fun, except I jarred my back within five minutes. Here's a picture of Zoë doing her thing:

Anyhow, she's since moved to Seattle and continues to do amazing things. Some of these things include tour managing TV on the Radio and managing Sebastian Grainger. But the project I'm most excited about finds her behind the mic in a studio out in LA. She somehow managed to score a co-hosting position on a delightful radio show called Left In La, alongside David Cousin. They're really fun to listen to and I suggest you tune in. The first episode has Tunde Adebimpe, of TV on the Radio, and their second episode has thespian and songstress Scartlett Johansson. So be sure to listen to Left In La. It's really fun and Zoë and David's positivity is infectious.

Also, Zoë has a great blog, which features tour photos and other fun stuff.

I don't think I've ever been busier (or more stressed) than I am right now. Luckily I took a few days out to decompress before I throw myself back into it. In that time, I checked out some of the Vancouver Comedyfest. Some highlights included:

*Watching a heckler think he could piss off Todd Barry at the Vogue and Mr. Barry, along with the whole audience, tearing the moron a new one.

*Giving Paul F. Tompkins a guided historic tour of Granville Street.

*Reggie Watts' coke comedown "song."

*These girls, my hopefully new best friends, singing this song.

*Picnicface, in general.

*Local boy Taz VanRassel holding his own among some big players, including this guy from the Office and this fellow, from 30 Rock.

Oh, and I'm looking to interview someone with Tourettes Syndrome. It's research for my book. So if you'd like to share your experience having the syndrome, please get in touch.

Episode 16 - The Paul Anthony Experience

2009-09-13T16:54:00.001-07:00

To listen to Episode 16 of the People's Program Project, click here!

Paul Anthony is a actor, "singer" and host of Talent Time. Here are some links to things we talked about on this podcast episode...

Here's a video of the Candy Girls Cabaret, performed without irony, which is aok!

When Paul is asking me if I seduced comedian Ryan LaChance, he's referring to this article, which features an interview I did for Vice with our friend (and my favourite comedian) Phil Hanley.

Here's a video for the movie SUCK. There are quite a few big names in it but Paul plays a lead role. It apparently is getting a lot of press at the Toronto Film Festival.

Fred and Sharon, who are real and genuine. I interviewed them for the Canadian Press. (Though I can't find the article anywhere online.)

On a personal note, I've been busy making the most of the end of summer and working on some contracts and freelance and stuff. This week I'm starting a course so no more fun party times for me, or at least a scaled back version. I went to Harrison Hot Springs earlier this week for a last minute getaway. I would highly recommend it, especially if you're from Vancouver. It's so darn close. Lovely place, lovely people and the hot springs are magical. Except for the adult pool, in which couples who are lovingly floating each other around on their backs give anyone trying to reenact So You Think You Can Dance dirty looks. Here's the view from our room:

There's some exciting news I'd like to share but can't just yet. So stay tuned.

Episode 15 - The Nathan Fielder Experience

2009-08-31T22:35:00.000-07:00

To listen to episode 15, click here.

When I was in university, I wanted to write for television. I imagined being the next David E. Kelly. I had this idea to create a series about ordinary people, like Sri Lankan dishwashers and gawky substitute teachers. Unfortunately UVic's writing program didn't focus on that style of writing so I gave up on that dream. (I write the news for City TV on occassion, but it's totally different.) So it was real neat to meet Nathan Fielder. The Vancouver-born comedian has been writing for TV since he was 23. (He's now 26.) He currently lives in LA where he writes for Important Things with Demetri Martin.

I also share an anecdote about a weird chain of restaurants here and their unavoidable hostesses.

I had some technical problems with my audio, which is why my intro sounds like I'm in an echo chamber but I kind of like it.

Also on this episode, I got my writing partner Ayma Letang to sit in and help me find my voice. Here's a picture of her and her beautiful cheekbones.

Next episode will be devoted entirely to Paul Anthony, everyone's favourite man about town. Until then, check back here for news. There's some coming on the way. And check out the Links to Click section, cause they are all worth clicking. Today I added my dear friend Sarah Steinberg's blog, which is one of my most favourite blogs ever. She's real funny and smart and stylish.

Easy like Sunday Morning

2009-08-30T17:57:00.000-07:00

Look, an S&M swing horse.

My friend Daniel Perlmutter started a podcast called Sundays with Dan. He interviews me on episode two. I tried to be kind of funny but I think I need help. Dan's also one of the guys from Automatic Vaudeville, which is a funny filmmaking studio thing.

My podcast is coming soon.

Point Break

2009-08-24T20:18:00.000-07:00

A few announcements.

First off, I did a really interesting interview with Nathan Fielder. You might recognize him from the times you went to your parents house and they were watching This Hour Has 22 Minutes. Well, he's in LA now, where he was hired to write for Important Things with Demetri Martin. I'm going to work on editing in the next few days and hope to have something out soon-ish.

Other upcoming episodes include the lovely and talented Lisa Joyce, Paul Anthony and Andy Dixon, who turns 30 tomorrow.

Also, my arm candy is co-hosting a show tomorrow (August 25) at the Biltmore. It's called Arrogance and it's co-hosted by Dave Shumka of Stop Podcasting Yourself (of which I'm a big fan.) It pits improvisers against comedians in the ultimate showdown. Here's the flyer.

Finally, Lightning Dust has a new album out. They're the beautiful little band who let me use their song "Wind Me Up" as the theme for my podcast. Anyhow, their new album is called Infinite Light and it's delightful. They're playing the Biltmore on Thursday here in Vancouver so be sure to come down if you're in town.

Nike SB

2009-08-20T18:03:00.001-07:00

In my three years at the Canadian Press, the article I was most proud of was the one above. I think it was a slow weekend (I worked weekends) and I wanted a reason to check out Nike's premier skate video and so I somehow made a story out of it. I remember being so frustrated that Nike turned down my request to be interviewed because I wasn't "core" media. But I have to give them credit. They know exactly what they're doing. Hence the video below.

Yummy.

!Attention!

2009-08-15T15:08:00.001-07:00

I'm looking for a professional photographer who'd be open to working on an exciting project ON SPEC. If it flies (which we'll make happen, obviously) it'll be awesome and good exposure. So please get in touch, noneandonly@gmail.com

Hit It

2009-08-14T12:51:00.000-07:00

It's been an interesting little while. So much crazy stuff going on, all of which I can't talk about.

Oh hey, check it. Pink Mountaintops has a new video, directed by fellow Jew Shira Blustein. A few of my babe friends are in it:

The "lead singer," Deandra, is one of my most favourite girls alive. Her boobs almost turned me gay once. True story. The story ended with me crying, partly out of confusion and partly out of hilarity while Deandra laughed her horse, dry laugh, till she could barely breath. She's one of those rare gems who doesn't bullshit. Here's a picture of her at my best friend Chris' birthday:

Last night was the first night of Olio. My main man Nardwuar was part of an improv night where he went on stage and told his crazy stories and then some improv people interpreted them.

On the podcast front, I'm still working on a few things. Aiming to interview Paul Anthony next week and my friend who's intentionally homeless for the next six months. So keep checking back. I know you do anyways.

Episode 14

2009-08-06T16:46:00.000-07:00

Click here to listen to Episode 14 of the People's Program Project.

After a month long hiatus, we have an episode out. And it's a great one, which includes two stories and a musical interlude by a mysterious artist who shall not be revealed. Yet.

The first story is called Long Beautiful Hair. The second one is called Not the Leavening Agent. I'm not going to give a summery, 'cause they're strong enough on their own.

So if anyone knows the French word for "yeast infection" get in touch: noneandonly@gmail.com

Here are the pictures I promised of my tattoo, before and after (the after is a bit cropped.)

Thanks Chad, for making my life a little easier.

I just found out today that I know yet another person who's going to the Toronto Film Festival. The absolutely darling Alex Craig, along with Corey Adams, will be having the world premier of their film, Machotaildrop at the festival. Alex is one of those solid guys who blows your mind away with his niceness. The nicest man, husband and father. I'm pretty good friends with his beautiful wife Saz D, and have spent so many fun times having dance parties in their living room and lovely afternoon eating delicious food on their porch. Here's a picture of them on one of the best nights of my life. Definitely in my top ten:

So congrats to those boys. So impressed.

Support Your Local Skate Shop

2009-08-05T07:52:00.001-07:00

If you're in Vancouver tomorrow, come down to AntiSocial to watch Dear & Yonder, a documentary about ladies who surf. It's getting a lot of good buzz from all the lady blogs out there so I'm really excited to check it out. On a side note, I have to express my sincere love for Antisocial and its owners Michelle and Rick. I've never seen two business people put so much into a community. They are selfless. It gives me a warm feeling in my heart. Michelle was my go-to girl when I used to be the resident skateboard expert at the Canadian Press...she has supplied me with many a good quotes. She is also so committed to the community, it's a real inspiration. And Rick is by far the most humble person I've ever met, considering his ridiculous talent. If I had a kid, these are the type of people I'd want to use as roles models. So yeah, big fan of Antisocial.

And I want to say a huge congratulation to Ali Liebert, Paul Anthony and Craig Anderson, who all have one or two films in the Toronto Film Festival. That's a big deal. To celebrate, here's a hot picture of Ali:

Speaking of Paul, he's hosting Talent Time tonight. If you haven't gone, go. It's a bizarre experience.

Working on the podcast today. It's actually going to be really good. Really funny.

Let Yourself Go

2009-08-02T20:49:00.000-07:00

So I don't have a podcast ready yet but I have another one you could listen to in the meantime. I shared a story at Stop Podcasting Yourself Live the other night. Click here to listen. It was such a great show. Graham and Dave are such marvels and Charlie Demers' quick wit is really something else. I can't say enough good things about these guys. If you don't subscribe to them already, get on it. Top notch comedy.

My outfit that night was inspired by this commercial:

I've been feeling nostalgic. I didn't quite pull it off like Cindy did. However, it made me realize that in my old age, I'm getting less and less conservative.

A few announcements. My good friend Les Ramsay is having an art show, put on by Life Collective: I'm pretty sure this guy will be huge so check him out before he explodes.

Also, I am really busy right now. I hope to have a podcast episode by this week, for reals. Thanks for everyone who cares enough to check in. It means the world to me.

PS I really love my friends. I hope they know that.

How low can one go

2009-07-24T15:35:00.000-07:00

Here's a bit of fiction I wrote for Vice. It's pretty much all made up. But seriously... have you ever had a nightmare neighbour? I wanna hear stories.

Waiting for my bestie Ronit to roll in from Toronto. Very excited. Going to show her around my favourite place in the world. Aiming for the Richmond Night market (aka heaven on earth) this weekend and lots of beaching. Also, looking for easy camping destinations. I've lived here for 11 years and have never been camping, not once. Oh and y'all should check out the Biltmore on Tuesday. Stop Podcasting Yourself is doing a live show. Yeah, that's all I got to say.

Yuck

2009-07-23T17:32:00.000-07:00

I know enough about design to know my current layout is really ugly. I messed something up with html and my awesome nerd whiz neighbour is currently picking up a foster cat so she can't be at my side during this dire time. I will try not to freak out and vacuum instead.

To distract you from the ugly lay out, I've included a photo of me unsuccessfully trying to reenact that scene from that 80s movie where the girl gets out of the pool. Anyone know which one I'm talking about because I'm drawing a blank on the name or whether it even existed. I want to stress this was an unsuccessful attempt.

I feel bad about not posting a podcast but I've been really busy having a fun summer. I've never really enjoyed summer in this city because I spent a long time working evenings and weekends. I decided to try and make the most of it this time since my schedule is much different now. But I'm slowly getting things together and when things come together a bit more, they will surely be good. I should also let it be known that I'm working on various projects, in various stages, so it's hard to keep really focused all the time. So there you have it.

UPDATE: Sean and Karen are hands down the best neighbours/friends ever. I will dedicate a book to them one day.

Group Hug

2009-07-22T23:29:00.000-07:00

A Steinberg, Finlason, Jacot, Lev co-production. Marie Pierre is an alter ego who's a hyper-sexual, androgynous Cirque du Soliel reject.

Illustration, voice, writing, animation and editing: Sarah Steinberg (Check out her other animations. They're funny and very observant.)

Marie Pierre Concept: Chris Jacot and Elianna Lev

Hair, makeup, wardrobe, photo direction: Matthew Finlason and Chris Jacot

Look Out World

2009-07-19T21:14:00.000-07:00

See the hot blond girl in the middle? Her name is Ali Liebert. Get used to seeing her around. And don't say I didn't call it...

I had a really productive weekend, that included, but wasn't limited to, a) attending the best Laugh Gallery show I've ever attended (I was totally blown away with Trevor Boris, my dear Porno's colleague on VOT...I never gave that show much credit) b) listening to serenades on the fiddle...

c) buying a sweet gold mess choker and most importantly d) attending the wiener dog races. Hello? Wiener dog races?!

Aw, my new friend.

Oh, I have a friend whose heart is a bit sore now and I advised her to do the following. Pick your favourite love songs on your iTunes and arrange them from happiest to saddest. Then cut and copy your playlist and send it to me: noneandonly@gmail.com or leave a comment. I'm doing some research.

Also, if you have any good stories about being trashed while travelling Europe, please get in touch.

And cut

2009-07-15T21:23:00.000-07:00

Above is a picture of two of my closest girl friends, Lizzie and Natalie. They are my British birds. Two of the most beautiful women I know. We hadn't hung out together in a while, cause well Natalie is busy raising two beautiful children (she just gave birth a few months ago) and Lizzie is busy studying to be an animal doctor and I'm busy living like a 22-year-old. Anyhow, they make me happy.

I wrote this for Vice about two talented young fellas. Actually, they're really talented and I feel bad I didn't get a chance to stress that more in the article. But visit their website or check out their shows to see for yourself. I really love writing for Vice because they give me full creative feedom and let me write whatever I want and my editor believes in me and pushes me and I usually end up exposing way more of myself than I want but I'm a slave to my craft. In a good way. I always feel really weird and exposed after an article is published because so much is left to be interpreted. I mean, I'm writing satire and a lot of it is juiced up for entertainment but at the same time, my name is attached to it and a lot of people don't get it. Like my dad. I recently did an interview with this up and coming animator (actually I wrote about him for Vice a while back) who worked on children's animation for a long time and then did this thing for Spike and Mike. I asked if that's affected his career in any way. He said his reputation is built on professionalism and work ethic more then content. I've been thinking about that a lot lately.

My interview fell through tonight so the podcast won't be out for a little while. I spent a lot of time in Richmond today, shopping for my apartment, so at least I'm being productive.

The Master

2009-07-13T19:54:00.000-07:00

So my dear friend Matthew Finlason came over last night and did what he does best: Rearranged things in a way that looks nice, while making me feel better about myself...eventually. He's fucking ruthless and makes you feel like a piece of shit during the whole process but it's all for the greater good. As a sceptical journalist type, I question everything he does, especially since I know he makes it up as he goes along. He Twitted about the whole process:

@noneandonly lives like a pig refusing ever to evolve her stale attitudes that manifest themselves in stagnant decor and ignorant energy

@noneandonly to her credit she does allow me to manipulate object to increase the perception of space but not without a fight. She's single

@noneandonly is learning that a woman's clean space and cookies will keep a man because a tight little body only gets him home from the bar

You get the picture.

Anyhow, my place is coming together slowly. I hate living in disarray. Here's some of my favourite parts of my new apartment:

He decided to put my most adorable Red Bean photo above my bed. Something about inspiring harmony and companionship. Or something. I love that print. It was taken by the very talented and posi-core Toby Bannister during an adventure in Japan.

I really like what he did here. He took my ex-boyfriend's skateboard and made it into a shelf. You can't see but one of those books is the Kama Sutra. I used to have it on my coffee table, which weirded people out. Boys picked it up more often then girls did. It really wasn't for shock value...I just really like the binding. When it becomes winter and I need to use this heater, I'll have to put up an actual shelf.

This used to be the central piece in my old place. I love it but now I find it a bit sad, especially since there's some heavy history behind it. Sonja Ahlers painted it. I think it works here. I think. Still getting used to it.

Not loving where the Neko Case poster is...it needs to be lowered. I spent a lot of time making a wall of pictures, with all my animal pictures and paintings, above my couch but Matt didn't like it. I guess it's a work in progress.

One of my most prized possession is my pink elephant lamp. Matt moved it into my kitchen, which was a pretty empty, boring space before. I guess I can dig it.

What does this have to do with the People's Program Project? Not much. Well, actually, Matthew is featured in one of my podcast episodes. Can you guess which one?

I guess this is starting to merge into a personal blog, which I was struggling with but now I think I'm okay with.

Well, I'll tease future episodes: a story about trying to explain an embarrassing ailment to a pharmacist in a foreign land, a chat with the very popular man-about-town and host of Talent Time Paul Anthony, maybe something from Bronx Cheer (if I have the courage to re listen to an interview I did with them for Vice that went horribly wrong. One of my personal worst experiences interviewing ever. Nothing to do with them though...they're very lovely and talented boys), a collab with Jeff Hamada from BOOOOOOOM and an interview and new material from songstress extrodinare, Lisa Joyce Parry.

Porno Von Pornstein

2009-07-09T16:50:00.000-07:00

You know that girl who's sometimes on Video on Trial? The really hot one with a big mouth? Yeah, the crazy hot one? Anna Von Frances? Well, her and I go WAAAAAY back. I'm the only person she still lets call her Porno (long story.) I could (and should) probably write a novel about our relationship. That girl is one hell of a human being. I won't go into describing her as there really are not enough words but yeah. She's something else.

Anyhow, she throws parties and a bunch of other crazy stuff. I guess she runs a website too. Anyhow, she sent me a bunch of questions about my favourite spots in Vancouver. I could talk about my love for Vancouver all day. Check it out.

That photo that accompanies the interview was taken by Jon West last year. His talent frightens me. He's one of those rare people who excels at anything and everything he does. Anything he sets his mind to, he masters. He is very, very special. I'm grateful to have known him.

Episode 13 - Let's Go Crazy

2009-07-06T18:13:00.000-07:00

To listen to Episode 13, click here.

Back in January, I went crazy. I don't think it was the first time, but it was the first time that I behaved in such a way that several of my closest friends voiced their concerns and I went and got help. I documented the process so I can turn it into something bigger, which will be published eventually. But for now, I've been interested in the idea of going crazy, as it seems everyone experiences it at some point in life.

On this episode we hear two story. The first one is about a friend's decent into madness, which resulted in her doing something very wholesome, for seven days straight, non-stop.

The second story is about what drove my friend to read her boyfriend's diary, twice, and what happened as a result.

I'd love to hear your story about going crazy. Feel free to get in touch at noneandonly@gmail.com

So I'm settling into my place very nicely. It's so amazing to be out of my old place, which was a clusterfuck of noise and motion and non-stop madness. This apartment is peaceful and I'm surrounded by loads of lovely energy. Also, enjoying the Vancouver summer. Some interesting events have been happening, which will definitely be touched upon in later episodes. So stay tuned.

My life is incredibly post-modern

2009-06-29T22:42:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of that day I sort of took part in that reality TV thing. I spend a lot of time making fun of people on reality TV so it was a very bizarre experience. I'm doing a piece on it (eventually) so you'll hear all one day. You'll also probably hear a lot about the whole concept in the next year or so. Despite it being a total fucking head trip, I'm really proud to be part of something so inspiring. The end result is going to be amazing. The fellow in the middle photo, Keith Behrman, is one heck of a talented director.

The next episode will be a little while longer since I just moved into my new place. Hung my first painting all on my own with a drill and everything (with some serious guidance.) The space is pretty amazing. Actually, make that super amazing. I will be taking full advantage of my backyard and patio. It's been ages since I've lived in anything other than an apartment. It's magic.

But the next episode will be about going crazy and the different ways it can happen. Really juicy stuff.

Vice outtake

2009-06-23T23:34:00.000-07:00

The fabulous Niki Kendall and I spent a hellish day driving around the Lower Mainland looking for pawn shop people to talk to for Vice. What we learned was that people in pawn shops don't want to talk, much less have a photo taken, much less have to sign a release form. Our hard work and efforts are printed in the latest issue of Vice. I thought I'd post what I thought was a brilliant interview that didn't get published 'cause the fellow wouldn't let us take his photo. But imagine a large grumpy Russian guy...

Grumpy Russian guy who works at pawn shop who also didn’t want to give his name. He said he wasn’t the owner but another Russian guy from another pawn shop said he was lying to us and was in fact the owner.

Russian Guy: I have accent. I no want to talk.

Vice: I understand accents very well. So has there ever been people who come in that seem weird and you didn’t want to buy their stuff?

There’s lots of stuff we no buy because we can’t resell.

Like what?

Electronics. You buy today computer four times as much, after two months the computer in store cost two thousand dollar.

Right, uh ok. What’s the most popular item people are buying right now?

What they buying? They no buying nothing. People have no money to buy nothing.

So no one’s buying anything?

You see people in the store?

How many people come in a day?

You see people in the store? I think I give good information.

I’ve never been in a pawn shop before so I’m trying to understand how they work.

Well now you’ve been in pawn shop.

Yeah it’s exciting! It’s exciting! You’ve worked here for 15 years, why did you want to work here?

Where I have to work? I’m a very old guy to work different place.

What’s your dream job?

No dream.

You have no dreams?

I dream to go home.

Back to Russian?

To go home.

Today?

Yeah.

And what do you have at home?

To see my wife. That what I want to do. (Smiles for the first time in the conversation. Then a customer came in.)

Episode 12 - The Bogus Tokus Experience

2009-06-17T18:13:00.001-07:00

To listen to Episode 12, click here To read the coinciding Vice article, click here.

WARNING: I'm not trying to alienate my audience who doesn't enjoy thrash or skateboarding. Just listen to this episode the whole way through. These guys are great storytellers.

So, people in East Vancouver tend to enjoy thrash, I think it's safe to say. One band that's really getting people excited these days is Bogus Tokus. To those unfamiliar with them, it's made up of members of Adelaide, STREETS and Pride Tiger, Heavy Feather and Lord Beginner, Featherwolf and some other ones. I sat down with Mapee and Colin McKill one warm afternoon in my kitchen to discuss a variety things including, but not limited to...

- Ambition.
- CMJ mascara bands.
- Stealing Jokes.
- The first Lolapalloza
- A dub band inspired by Minor Threat called Minor Spliff.
- The new Children skateboards put out by Bummer High (if anyone has a picture of these fuckers, please send one my way: noneandonly@gmail.com)
- This movie:

- Homemade stunts.

- One of the worst night of my life...
- ...which involved my ex trying to land Gassy Jack and eating shit:

- The concept for the new Bison t-shirts.

Big hugs to Mapee and Colin for giving a great interview. Mad love. Those boys are funny.

It will be a while till the next podcast 'cause I'm living out of boxes and such while I move to my new mature, adult home. Can't wait till that's over and done with.

Episode Up To 11

2009-06-05T21:39:00.001-07:00

To listen to episode 11, click here.

So I hope this embed works. If it does, this is how I feel sometimes:

I'm going through some stuff right now (like the teen boy crying at his computer) but I don't really know how deep I want to delve into it (like his father getting mad at him for doing so.)(I don't know what the keyboard cat represents. Maybe my ongoing quest for a peaceful balance?) I generally don't have much to hide but I'm hoping to channel what I'm going through into something creative that will reach a larger audience. So in the meantime I'll hold off. Basically, I want to invest my crazy emotional life experiences in a more productive and creative way then the fellow in the video posted above.

Anyhow, I wish I could be more consistent with posting P3 but life's gotten in the way. And this month is going to be crazy too. I'm moving out of the place I've been in for the last three and a half years. I've totally outgrown it. My current place is very loud. (As an aside, I sound like I've recorded myself in a can of empty beans on this episode because I did my intro and extro in my bathroom, since my apartment is super loud now that all the windows are open due to the heat. The acoustics in my bathroom aren't the greatest.) This place has been very good to me but I needed something a little more mature and I was lucky enough to find something pretty sweet. But enough about me (at least for now.)

On this episode I talk to two beautiful actress friends of mine. Ali Liebert talks about moving to LA for pilot season and the roommate she was paired up with upon arrival. The second chat is with Rukiya Bernard, who tells me about her experience being a black actress in Vancouver.

Okay back to me. Here's some pictures of my trip to TO last month.

This is Sonja Ahlers in front of an run-down cash outlet with some of the most non-ironic artwork I've seen in a while. Who don't need cash? Raise a hand please.

This is the unflappable and ultra-stylish Jess Way. She's one of those girls that you can't get enough of 'cause her energy is infectious. I could use some of her right about now.

I ran into my dear, old friend Catto while she was putting up art for her first solo show at a fancy hip gallery. I ended up attending and it was a success! The fact that she failed to apply for a liquor license (they take 10 days to process) didn't ruin the evening in the slightest. Her art is that good! (And she found a loophole and served liquor anyhow. )

My dad took me to this marble temple out in the middle of nowhere. It was a wonderful day spent with the man I love, respect and admire the most in the world. (Well, after Ludacris. And Danny Bonaduce, of course. Oh, and the midget actor from Seinfeld.)

I also got to check out the AGO, which is a masterpiece. Gehry did not disappoint. (Unlike the other guy. Ugh.)

Going up.

And down. (Naw, that's just an excuse to post a picture of my favourite shoes. And some borderline camel toe.)

Seriously. The pricey admission is worth it.

What else? Oh, I interviewed two of the funniest comedians around Vancouver for Vice.

Lightning Dust will be playing a show put on by Lifetime on June 16th. They'll be playing with Ladyhawk and a very special guest that I'm sure most people already know about (Hint: They're from Guelph.) Lifetime do great things and are good people. I think I'm helping out at the door for that one.

What do I have in store for upcoming episodes? New music and interviews with Lisa Joyce Parry, Bogus Tokus (former members of STREETS and some other party bands I forget the names of...I guess you'll find out when I interview them) and an interview with a girl who went crazy on her boyfriend and read his diary. Has that happened to you? It's happened to me. Four times. With the same ex. So stay tuned!

Time Peace

2009-05-24T19:33:00.000-07:00

I'm back from TO but I'm nowhere near to having a new episode up. I'm sure no one will be losing sleep over it but I put pressure on myself and don't feel too hot about it.

The TV making experience was overwhelming and surreal. Luckily, the director was very talented and made me feel at ease, during a point in my life where things were not the least bit peaceful. (A lot has happened since then and I'm in a different place, thankfully. Sorry to be cryptic...it'll all come out one day.) I don't think it'll ever be seen, thank goodness, but I'm planning on doing a bigger piece about the whole experience for a big broadcaster. So stay tuned.

Above we have a photo of my mum. It was an ad campaign for watches. My mum used to model...she's really beautiful. Anyhow, the photo hangs in my parent's basement and most of my friends who I grew up remember it vividly. Like, when I visit TO they ask if that watch picture of my mum still hangs in the basement. It's one of those images that burns into your brain. I love it. Simple concept visually, but what an impact, hey? What a fox.

So I had to edit this post because I was feeling incredibly depressed when I originally wrote it. I have to start making a valid effort when it comes to writing on this blog 'cause some things are happening now that I can't say too much about but they're exciting and basically, yeah, my writing has to be a bit snappier.

Episode 10 - Podcast Host special!

2009-05-10T20:00:00.000-07:00

To listen to episode 10, click here.

On this episode I was lucky enough to get some stories from other podcast hosts who I admire. On this episode we speak with Drew and Dawn, Grant Lawrence of CBC Radio 3 and the hilarious and very kind Graham Clark of Stop Podcasting Yourself. I got them to share their most emo moments with me and I shared one was well.

Also, I talk about my experience in an Israeli army training camp I attended when I was 14(!). I've posted this before, but here's a picture of me shooting an M16, while I was there. Also on that trip, I was aquainted with a now-famous celebrity who was also sent on that same program.

There is a desperate lack of music and thank yous on this episode. I simply didn't have time to do the music, which bums me out. And I didn't get to thank Amber Webber and Josh Wells of Lightning Dust and their label for letting me use their song Wind Me Up with permission. So thanks! I'll be seeing them at the Bonnie Prince Billy show on Thursday. Yohay! Also thank you so much to my fellow podcast hosts that took the time to share their stories with me. It means the world to me!

I'm involved with some TV making tomorrow and I'm quite nervous so wish me luck!

Sowwy.

2009-05-10T07:59:00.000-07:00

So things have been really busy lately. Like, this weekend I planned to take some time out and relax before going to Toronto next week. And maybe do some cleaning. Then Vice asked me to do this thing and I agreed and it turned out miserably. Never in my professional career have I not accomplished what I was meant to accomplish. It seriously bummed me out.

Tomorrow I'm taking part in TV making, in which my life will be dissected. Don't ask. I'm feeling stressed out. I intend to document my taking part in reality TV so stay tuned for that.

I'm hoping to work on a short episode 10 today but it depends on a lot of things. If things come together, it'll be a special segment devoted to other podcast hosts, including Drew and Dawn and Grant Lawrence.

In the meantime, here's an article I wrote about cock snobs. Seriously, don't get mad at me, male species. I just wrote the thing.

Oh you know what's better than gaung to help numb you when you're feeling depressed? This. I don't have a TV and they had season four in the free box at work. It's seriously the best medication if you want to tune out from the world and focus on something else. Like American chavs and wags. But replace the strapping footballers with your grandfather's older brother.

Episode Nine - The Chris Smith Experience

2009-04-29T18:11:00.001-07:00

To listen to episode nine, click here.

Do you like music? Yes? Well that's great news because we've got some music on this episode.

My friends introduced me to Christopher Smith and told me he was a talented musician. I went on their word and decided to feature him on the podcast. I gave his music a listen and was very impressed. It reminds me of a striped down version of the Hidden Cameras. Anyhow, I feel very lucky to be able to be one of the first places to broadcast his stuff. His album will be released on Boompa in the near future.

Also on this episode, I sat down with a good friend of mine (and former co-worker)to talk about her experience covering the war in Afghanistan.

Recently, I attended a big hair party. My friend Scott Smith documented the night. This is the result:

Oh, and a HUGE congrats to Aaron Beckum, who got a sweet internship in LA with the Directors Bureau. Some of my favourite filmmakers are part of that group so, yeah. Mind blowing. Couldn't have gone to a more deserving person. This is only the beginning...

Episode Eight

2009-04-20T13:15:00.000-07:00

To listen to episode eight, click here.

First off, some good and bad news. The good news is that the man behind P3's music, the amazingly talented Aaron Beckum, is really busy these days. He does a bunch of stuff, which you can learn about on his website. So that means he won't be able to work on the podcast for now. Bummer! I'm so very grateful for all the work he put into this project...I wish I could express how blown away I am by his talent. The podcast won't be the same without him. But not to fret...he'll likely be involved in some way in future episodes and I plan on doing a feature on him and his music some time soon.

Here's a picture of him and his beautiful wife Ang (in the middle), looking dapper at a Big Hair party we attended recently.

My dear friend Stacey spent an hour and a half on my hair and makeup that night so I felt compelled to post a picture of the hard work she put into that.

On this episode we have two stories:

That's Europe - A year ago, I spent the month of April in Berlin, visiting my ex-boyfriend who was living there at the time. I sat him down to reminisce about the time we visited a place called the Liquidrom. It was a very bizarre and unsettling experience. Warning: There is lots of nudity in this piece.

Breakdown Make Up - It's amazing what comes out when you're getting your makeup done. This story shares a few examples of that.

On the topic of ex-boyfriends, I got to interview one of mine for Vice. Click here to have a look. Ben Frey is not only a good friend and talented artist but he's also the guy who created this podcast's logo.

What do you all think about being friends with an ex? Yay or nay? I'm yay for the most part, though I suppose it depends on each person. The only two ex's I'm not friends with are the two I happened to be in love with...strange how things work.

Next episode should have an interview with a local artist I recently discovered that really blows my brains. So stay tuned for that.

Episode Seven - Free of Script!

2009-04-12T20:48:00.000-07:00

To listen to episode seven, click here.

Ever question yourself? You know, where you wonder what the hell you're doing with your life and you question if you'll ever amount to anything, especially the exceptionally high standards you set yourself. Well, if you can relate, listen to this episode and be inspired.

There are two stories by two remarkable people.

Bombastically Canadian - In this story, my friend (who's a TV personality) talks about what it's like to be a white, gay, Jamaican who was raised in Canada.

Disfellowship - This is the story about one woman who lost everything and what it took to start over again.

On this episode, I totally freestyled it. You see, I've worked in broadcast for a while, the hard news kind of stuff where when you project your voice, you have to sound professional. When I've been doing this podcast, which is very much my thing, I've had a hard time projecting my voice. Do I want to sound authoritative, like I've always been trained to sound? Or do I want to be me? So I tried it without a script for the first time. I hope it gets easier. Please tell me if you notice a difference. I'd love to hear your feedback.

A few more items to touch upon: I'm looking for musicians who want to share their music and their stories. Ideally in Vancouver. So if you'd like to share your (unlicensed) music with me, get in touch. noneandonly@gmail.com

Also, I want to say thank you from the bottom of my heart, to everyone who's felt compelled to share their stories with me, on the podcast and otherwise. I can't tell you how much I appreciate it. My goal with P3 was to inspire people with storytelling and that's what seems to be happening. So let's keep it rolling. If you like what we do, tell everyone you know. Storytelling is important to people. It does a lot more than most people realize. It's a beautiful thing.

Episode Six

2009-04-01T19:09:00.001-07:00

Click here to listen to episode six.

Now that Aaron's back, we are back on track. And it feels so good. It feels so right.

Hey guess what? We got some more press. The local blog Beyond Robson wrote a wee little blurb. Yah!

Oh and check it:

We were actually #1 for a day but I didn't think to take a screen grab. So you'll have to trust me on that one. But #2 ain't so bad either. I'm in good company. (Thank you so much to Katie Lapi for being a wiz at graphic design.)

So let's get down to business. On this episode, we've got two stories:

We've All Been Scammed Before - Some of my friends share stories about getting scammed.

Articulating Bravery - A friend of mine built up the courage to go seek help for some of her issues. When she finally met with a therapist, she was thrown off by an unexpected surprise.

In that particular piece, the word "handicapped" is used several times when referring to someone with disabilities. Can someone tell me if that word is considered offensive or derogatory? Because I honestly don't know.

And the song at the end of the piece is called "Another Intervention" and it was written and performed by the wonderful and talented Aaron Beckum.

Get in touch or leave a comment. Our email address is noneandonly@gmail.com

I'd love to hear your worst scam story - either getting scammed or scamming someone else. Or get in touch just to say hi. We love dialogue!

Non-Episode Five

2009-03-27T17:43:00.000-07:00

To listen to Non-Episode Five, click here.

Aaron is back from Kansas, but his computer broke and he's swamped and sick so that means he won't be able to work on P3 stuff for a little while longer. (Get better soon Aaron!) I missed putting out a podcast so I decided to go ahead and give it a go on my own. Please note that I totally massacre the intro and ending song...so sorry in advance! I'm still figuring this stuff out.

It also means there's no amazing soundtrack, which is a bummer. But since this podcast is about storytelling I decided to try to flex my storytelling muscles. So I recount a recent night out where I went to see Will Oldham concert in Vancouver. I haven't really left the house much in the last few months, so going out was a bit of an adventure. Plus, it was the first time I got to see Oldham in concert. He's one of my favourites. It was a great night out, filled with magic and mystery and fun, which you will hear all about in the podcast. Oh and if you were at the Will Oldham show in Vancouver, please tell me what you thought. Drop me an email at noneandonly@gmail.com

I posted my favourite song of the evening above, though it was from another show, not the Vancouver one. Still, you'll get the picture.

Oh, and I got my first bit of press! Click here to read. It also interviews Sarah Buchanan, who started something similar to P3 called Life After Radio. Have a listen 'cause it's really great.

Stay tuned for next week, when the music will be back on track and everything will be right in the world.

In the meantime

2009-03-21T18:34:00.000-07:00

I miss Aaron and his wife Ang. They're in Kansas this week doing important things. Which is why episode five (!) of the People's Program Project will be another little while but hopefully not too long. The upcoming episode will feature a story about what happens when you build up the courage to do something you never thought you'd be able to do, only to be thrown completely off guard and knocked down again. Also, it should have some really good stories about getting scammed. So, in the meantime, here's a new video from my favourite lady singer, Neko Case.

Her new album is a wee bit adult comtemporary for my taste but still pretty decent. It's a grower. The strongest song is called Prison Girls and there's this one line that goes "I love your long shadows and your gun powder eyes" that reminds me of someone I think of often and fondly. Anyhow, the video was illustrated by Vancouver-based artist Julie Morstad and her brother Paul. I find her art simply delightful. Check out her childrens books if you can. They're published by Simply Read.

I like the bit with the tiger getting a combing.

Oh, and one more thing. I did two interviews this week. It was an interesting experience being on the other end of things. But a good experience. The ladies asking the questions were both really sweet and I'm excited to see how well they edit out all the times I say "um" and "like."

Episode Four - The Ashley Webber Experience

2009-03-13T16:52:00.000-07:00

To listen to episode four, click here.

Oh, well hello there. I'm really excited about this episode because I get to play some original music by an artist who I've admired for a long time. Her name is Ashley Webber.

I've known Ashley since her days as the bass player of the Organ. Since leaving the band, she's gone on to do some really amazing work with Pink Mountaintops, her twin sister's band Lightning Dust (whose song I use for the opening and closing theme to the podcast) and one of my musical obsessions, Will Oldham. (She's the lady singing on his album Lie Down in the Light.)

Ashely was sweet enough to lend me her time and let me interrogate her about her musical career, including her connection to the one and only goeteed king of under-bite rock, Chad Kroeger.

Also on this episode, we have part two to Life Left on the Road, the story we played last week about people who recycle roadkill. On this segment, the Roadkill Warrior describes an integral moment he had with a dying bear.

Oh and check out what this guy does. He writes a new short story twice a week. I certainly don't have that much drive but I sure wish I did.

Aaron is gone for a little while so the next episode likely won't be up for a few weeks. But keep listening and spread the word if you like what we're doing. And get in touch at noneandonly@gmail.com to tell me your stories. I want to hear them.

Episode Three

2009-03-02T12:22:00.000-08:00

To listen to episode three, click here.

Third time's a charm? Three times a lady? What other cliches with the word "three" can I think of? Here's the breakdown for episode three of P3.

Dancing on the Ceiling - In the mid-90s, my friend was a teenager who lived near Manchester. Like most of her peers, she was obsessed with the Brit Pop movement. This tells the story of her innocent and chance encounter with a musician who happened to be the king of the genre at the time, and how it changed her life.

Life Left on the Road - The story of two people who devote a good part of their lives to recycling roadkill. I originally wrote this story for the Canadian Press. Click here to read it.

The Course is Crystal Clear - My friend Dan has a strong connection to crystals - but not by choice.

Second order of business: The song on the first piece is called Alcohol & Tylenol and it was written by Aaron Beckum, the show's ridiculously talented musical director.

Also, I mentioned in episode two that I'd read out some more most absurd moments. I tried doing that but I kept messing up and it was too much of a process so I'm just going to post two of my favourites on here. The first one is from Sonja Ahlers, who's one of my favourite artists. She's published two beautiful books and makes adorable angora bunnies. Look her up. Here's her story of her most absurd moment ever:

1999

using the first royalty cheque from my first book temper,temper to buy a plane ticket to go see my longterm penpal friend who was in my favourite band at the time to go see them play for real and meet up in SF to drive to LA. i was 'in love'. i thought he was my 'soul mate' because we made the same 'art'. he resembled vincent gallo. buffalo 66 had come out earlier that year.
it was a total disaster. the most absurd moment of it all was being backstage at a fugazi show with him and seeing vincent gallo in a pimped out 7-piece suit with hat and lady accessory. being there in this surreal experience holding together a broken heart and hating every second of being backstage like cattle was the most absurd moment of my life.

it was truly absurd.

unfortunately my friend was a totally self-involved asshole musician. the upside is that we worked it out and are still friends. he is definitely one of my friend soulmates. it is easy to be friends with someone who lives in a remote part of france and who i never see.

Second comes from Sheila Campbell. If you're a fan of Stop Podcasting Yourself, then you'll know she's Abby's aunt. She's also very funny.

Pedantic Hypocrasy

We had rented a banquet room in a downtown hotel in Switzerland's capital city of Berne and were in search of a convenient unloading spot in the underground carpark. All of the nearest spots were occupied and as we had some heavy items to move we opted to park directly outside the entrance with the hazard lights on. This unfortunately meant that we were blocking one of the two lanes in which to drive but there was little traffic and we guessed it would take only a few minutes. One or two cars passed without too much ado but it was clear to us that the next car approaching contained an old man in the process of blowing a gasket. His car swiftly pulled up alongside our parked car thus blocking the only thoroughfare remaining. He applied his full body weight to the driver's side automatic window button and had begun foaming and spitting on the glass well before it lowered entirely. He seethed as he berated us in his thick and phlegmy Swiss German for our confounded stupidity, inconsideration and basic disregard for the rules of the carpark. Couldn't we see that we were blocking a lane of traffic for God's sake!? When we made an attempt to point out the irony of the situation as he too was blocking a lane of traffic and had cars queuing behind him his anger turned to blind rage and our focus quickly switched to his writhing and pulsing jugular vein. Our lack of effort to speak to him in a polished form of the local dialect and blatant insubordinance when addressing an elder were nearly enough for cause to send this man into cardiac arrest. Our reprieve came in the form of a quickly growing stream of honking horns behind his car. Our giggling and pointing were about all this man could take but before he drove off he was clear to let us know that not only were we devoid of sense or respect but we had just wasted five minutes of his time while he explained what should have been obvious. At that point we pretended to cry and then resumed our fits of laughter while pointing out that there were still no cars behind our vehicle and that we were finished our unloading but we were soon interrupted by the waiting cars honking horns and the sound of his car peeling off into the carpark.

I wonder how many days it was before one of his neighbours called police to report a funny smell coming from his apartment.

Thanks to everyone who submitted. I really appreciate it.

Finally, I'd like to give a big congratulations to Dave Shumka and Graham Clark of Stop Podcasting Yourself for their one year anniversary. Their podcast is enjoyable (that's an understatement) and you should really listen. Here's something they did together a while back that I quite enjoyed (I'll admit. I'm a HUGE Queen Latifah fan.) Hope you do too.

Oh yeah. I started a Facebook group. If you like what we do, join. Tell all your friends so I don't have to bug people to listen. And get in touch at noneandonly@gmail.com

It's Coming

2009-02-27T17:29:00.001-08:00

Episode Three will be a few more days. What you can look forward to? Let's just say, Brit Pop, roadkill and magical crystals. Sound enticing? In the meantime, here's an amazing video of a few kids playing a Black Mountain song. Enjoy. I did.

Episode Two

2009-02-18T18:41:00.000-08:00

To listen to episode two click here.

First off, thanks so much for listening to the first episode of the People's Program Project. I wish I could express how much it means to me and Aaron that you would spend your time listening to this collaboration. So thank you sincerely. Secondly, thanks SO SO SO much to those people who were kind enough to give me feedback. It was incredibly valuable and insightful and helpful. It means so much to me that you'd not only listen but spend time thinking about how this project could be better. Please continue to send your comments and suggestions my way: noneandonly@gmail.com

Okay, so on the second episode, we have three stories:

Traffic Camp tells the story of a dear friend of mine and her adventures at a traffic radio station, and the devoted following it garnered.

The Most Absurd Moment Ever tells a series of stories about some of my friends' most absurd moments ever.

Numb but Alive is a piece I wrote as a final project for my writing degree in university, close to seven years (!) ago. It's about my father's experience in the war and how he became immune to the sight of death.

For the next episode, I want to hear about your most absurd moment ever, so please email me at noneandonly@gmail.com. I'll read some of the best ones on episode three.

Finally, I apologize if I sound somewhat depressed in this episode. I'm dealing with some life changing stuff right now, which I might do a piece on in the future. But I promise more pep next time.

Episode One and a little spiel

2009-02-05T16:57:00.000-08:00

To listen to episode one, click here.

Welcome to the temporary web home of the People's Program Project. I'm going to be using this until my website, www.noneandonly.com, is ready to go.

For the majority of my adult life, I've been lucky enough to tell stories for a living. As a result, I've become obsessed with finding good ones. The People's Program Project (or P3 for short) is my attempt to do that.

The plan is to start local. All the people in my life are talented, funny, articulate and great storytellers. So my storytelling vault is pretty much endless. But the plan is to eventually start hearing stories from outside my little world, to truly make this program project that of the people.

So on the first episode we have three stories (and a really long intro and extro.) They are:

A Small Band in a Large Amphitheatre
A few years ago my friend's band was asked, seemingly out of nowhere, to spend a month opening for a ginormous band. I asked said friend, blind-item styles, about what it was like to tour with the biggest band in the world.

Never Been Caught Stealing
The story of a former retail manager who became obsessed with stealing from her own store.

Courage: Living Up to Her Name
The story of a recent reunion with my first baby.

There's a lot of people who helped put this podcast together. They are:

Aaron Beckum - He's the musical director of the show and all around very talented fellow. He's also one of the founders of the Amazing Alphabet People's Coalition. The podcast would be nothing without him.

Dave Shumka: A local comedian who hosts the consistently hilarious Stop Podcasting Yourself. Let's call him the technical director, because he taught me everything I needed to know about podcasting. He's a whiz.

Josh Wells and Amber Webber: Also known as Lightning Dust. They provided the sweet, beautiful theme song, Wind Me Up, with permission from their label Jagjaguwar.

Ben Frey: This mindblowingly talented artist designed the podcast's logo. Good thing he owed me a favour. You can check out more of his stuff here.

Steve Pratt: He's the director of CBC Radio 3 (which I used to freelance for) and a multimedia master who has been so generous with his time. If it wasn't for his encouragement, I'd never have even thought about starting a podcast.

Thanks so much for your interest and stay tuned. Drop me a line at noneandonly@gmail.com and let me know what you think.

Stay iTuned!

2009-01-15T15:52:00.000-08:00

The People's Program Project is coming soon.