E12 - CAAT Tales: Heart, Humour & Health & Safety, Curtis Runions and Tom Brennan Take the Mic

In this episode of CAAT Tales, host Julie White brings listeners a warm, funny, and deeply human conversation with longtime faculty member and union steward Curtis Runions—a communications professor whose mix of heart, humour, and quiet discipline has shaped classrooms and colleagues alike. From his daily guitar‑practice streak (“once I start a streak, I don’t like to break the streak” ) to his unexpected path from childcare centres to college teaching, Curtis opens up about the moments that shaped him, the joy of watching students cross the graduation stage, and the meaningful work of supporting members as a steward.Later in the episode, Julie sits down with Tom Brennan, a faculty representative on the Joint Health and Safety Committee. Tom demystifies what the committee actually does, why inspections matter, and how faculty can play a proactive role in keeping classrooms safe. He shares practical insights—from reporting hazards to navigating emergencies—and highlights the behind‑the‑scenes work that keeps campuses running smoothly. As Tom puts it, the committee’s job is simple but essential: “everything you could think of in that building is looked at from a health and safety perspective”This episode blends storytelling, practical guidance, and a celebration of the people who make our college community stronger. Whether you’re tuning in during winter reading week or catching up later, it’s an empowering listen.YouTube Code for Music clearance: NPXY0YQVYZIJHMOW