Harmonious Gentlemen

Join the gents at Phil’s as they discuss the intricacies of childhood over eggs, bacon, and shredded hashbrowns. They exchange stories, discuss the reliability of memory, and a few philosophical questions as well. How would you define childhood? When does it end? Can we ever get it back? Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the Gentlemen attempt to reflect, reset, and reharmonize. It’s a casual conversation, meandering between the professional, personal, and podcast aspects of life - but in the comfy taproom of Blindman, they stumble dangerously close to wisdom. Is the world changing in a way that makes it harder to be harmonious? After years of doing this, does anyone even know what harmonious means? Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this special summertime episode, the gents talk about travelling from different locations on the globe. What are your thoughts on travel? Is it something we should all do? How do we travel harmoniously? Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

What makes someone worth following?This time, the Harmonious Gentlemen wrestle with the messy reality of leadership. Why do some leaders inspire while others divide? Is leadership earned or simply claimed? Do titles matter, or are the best leaders the people no one notices?From history to everyday life, the conversation challenges what we think we know about influence, power, and responsibility; and asks whether all of us are leading someone, whether we realize it or not. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the gents are joined by Elliot, the funniest teenager in Canada. They talk about the art and sport of improv, and how it makes us into better human beings. It’s a great conversation about openness, vulnerability, and saying yes. Stick around until the end when Elliot coaches Tyler, Chris, and Graham through their first improv drill. It goes about as well as you’d expect it to. Elliot competed with Lindsay Thurber’s High School improv team, which took home gold at this year’s Canadian Improv Games National Championship. Follow Thurber Theater Arts on Instagram here: Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

When did you first realize you were getting older? Was it the gray hairs, the sore back, the changing priorities—or simply the realization that time keeps moving whether we’re ready or not?In this episode, the Harmonious Gentlemen take a break from Alberta politics to reflect on the experience of aging and ask some big questions along the way. Why do many people report becoming happier as they grow older? What does our culture get wrong about ageing? What can we learn from the world’s longest-lived communities? And how should the awareness of our own mortality shape the way we live today?From personal stories and scientific research to philosophy, faith, and a few laughs about the realities of middle age, this conversation explores what time takes from us, what it gives back, and how we might embrace the journey ahead. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode the gents were lucky enough to sit down with Dr. Jared Wesley, political scientist, commentator, and author of numerous posts on the Substack aptly titled, Decoding Politics. They talk about the need for getting back to the basics of democracy and three rules for helping us all make sense of what’s going on politically. Then, Jared shares about his work with a project called, “Common Ground”, in which he explores what it actually means to be Albertan.Check out Jared’s Substack at: https://drjaredwesley.substack.com/ Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the Gents are joined by Nate Pike - a paramedic, political commentator, and the creator of "The Breakdown," a popular independent media platform focused on Alberta politics and holding government officials accountable. They discuss his experiences in this field, and the recent proposed changes to Alberta’s electoral boundaries and this impact on our democratic rights. They also talk about his investigation into controversial government medical procurement contracts involving MHCare Medical, which led to a $6 million defamation lawsuit and a temporary court injunction against him in early 2025. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

Dogs are known as "man's best friend", but do we know why? It turns out dogs and humans have been evolving together for thousands of years, and it looks like we're in it together for the long haul. The gents dive into various theories of domestication, chemical explanations for bonding, and the ethical challenges of owning a "fur-baby". What does it say about humans that we chose companionship with another species? Why do humans love dogs more than… other humans sometimes? It seems that our canine fellowship has a lot to teach us about harmony. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

This episode was originally recorded and released in September, 2022. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

Join the gents in their conversation about morality and ethics. First, they try to define the terms and question where these things come from. Then, they dive into different scenarios challenging their sense of loyalty, honesty, and justice.Thanks to Blindman Brewing, Cilantro and Chive, the King’s University, and Birdy Coffee Co. for sponsoring this episode.Thanks to Phil’s restaurant for the breakfast.Thanks to our listeners and subscribers. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the gents are joined by Jon Davies - Clinical Counsellor at Social Shift Therapy and Wellness. They explore pressing topics such as mental health, masculinity, relationships, emotions and feeling, resilience, and influences on boys and men. In addition to providing perspectives on these issues, they explore practical tools for supporting adolescent boys and what it means to be a harmonious man in today’s society..Learn more about the HuMan project and check out Jon’s Therapy and Counselling Collective at www.socialshiftwellness.com Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the Gents are joined by Mark and Witty Sandle. Dr. Mark Sandle is a professor of History at the King’s University in Edmonton, and Witty works as a Spiritual Director. They discuss the challenge and importance of navigating difference in our lives and relationships. Some look forward, while others look back, for hope and inspiration. What can we do to foster long-lasting, fruitful relationships, when it feels like we aren’t even looking in the same direction? Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

Dr. Jeffrey Dudiak is Professor of Philosophy at The King’s University in Edmonton, one of Tyler’s favourite teachers of all time, and a great podcast guest. In this episode, the second in what they’re calling, “the King’s Series”, the gents explore the definitions, challenges, and applications of truth and wisdom in today’s world. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

Part One of the King’s Series with Jonathan Nicolai-deKoning. In this episode, the gents sit down with Jonathan to talk about justice, mercy, humility, and his role as Program Director for the Micah Centre at the King’s University in Edmonton.Explore Justice and Development through King’s Micah CentreThrough internships, special lectures, experiential learning, relationship building, and more, the Micah Centre at The King’s University explores ways of seeking justice in today’s local and global contexts.The resources and activities of the Micah Centre are open to all students and are designed to expose students to the causes and consequences of poverty, non-sustainable environmental practices, systemic racism and discrimination, and more. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

Andrew Wakefield’s 1998 study linking the MMR vaccine to autism sparked one of the most influential—and damaging—public health controversies of our time. In this episode of Harmonious Gentlemen, we unpack how flawed science, media amplification, and misplaced skepticism helped popularize vaccine hesitancy. This is a conversation about evidence, accountability, and why responsible science communication matters now more than ever.NOTES AND RESOURCES:Overviewhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3136032/Wakefield Studyhttps://www.thelancet.com/pdfs/journals/lancet/PIIS0140-6736(97)11096-0.pdfhttps://share.google/yMcVsIyojuexBD6RgThe Doctor Who Fooled the World - Brian Deerhttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7759370/Brian Deer Articleshttps://www.bmj.com/content/342/bmj.c7452MMR does not cause Autism Studies and Linkshttps://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC554056/https://www.canvax.ca/sites/default/files/201806/IAC_MMRVaccineDoesNotCauseAutism_2017.pdf (links within)Article with more Linkshttps://www.uchealth.org/today/mmr-vaccines-do-not-cause-autism/Nationwide Study (over 650,000 sample size)https://www.acpjournals.org/doi/10.7326/M18-2101Article on Vaccine hesitancyhttps://www.cidrap.umn.edu/measles/1-4-us-adults-mistakenly-believe-mmr-vaccine-causes-autism-survey-reveals Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

‘Twas a cozy night in Lacombe, and the Gents and their families reflected on the year that was while looking ahead to the year that will be. In this short, but special, episode you’ll hear a few additional voices with unique perspectives on what’s truly important. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

Why is doing the right thing together so hard? In this episode, we’re joined by Ross Smillie, who brings wisdom and clarity to a conversation about collective action—its promise, its pitfalls, and its unintended consequences. We dig into the Tragedy of the Commons, real-world examples of shared responsibility breaking down, and what this means for everything from environmental issues to social change. A thoughtful, grounded discussion about why cooperation matters—and why it so often fails. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

This episode is a bit different. Recently, the Gents were asked by their friends at Red Hart Brewing to host their famously-fun quiz night. This sounds like a lot of fun, and it was, but it’s difficult as well. With the pressure mounting, the Gents got together to go through their trivia questions in preparation for the great event. They don’t discuss much, and aren’t challenged to be harmonious, but they ask a lot of medium-to-hard questions about people and their accomplishments! If you like trivia, this episode is for you - it’s designed for you to play along. If this isn’t for you, go back 100 episodes or so and find something that piques your interest. There’s gotta be something decent back there! Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

As miscellanea means, in the usual sense, “a miscellaneous collection of different things”, a single miscellaneum is logically impossible because variety and diversity (in their usual senses) are attributes of groups of things, not of individual things; for example, a populace can be varied and diverse, but a person cannot be various or diverse. Nevertheless, this is an episode about a miscellaneous collection of different things. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

To put it simply, we’ve been going through some stuff lately, and hope, whatever it is, has been difficult to find. Where does hope come from? What happens when it runs out? How can we turn things around? Can hope exist without a little bit of despair?Want to win a prize pack? Become a subscriber to our Substack and fill out this short (2 minutes) form about hope. It’s the one Chris sent to Tyler and Graham in preparation for the episode. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

Wiebo Ludwig was a fiercely committed anti-oil and gas activist who moved his family to Trickle Creek in northwestern Alberta to live simply and resist what he saw as the destruction of the land. In the 1990s, his confrontation with the oil industry escalated into a series of controversial events that divided Canadians. Was he a defender of the environment or a dangerous extremist? His story forces us to wrestle with uncomfortable questions: How far should protest go in the face of perceived injustice? When does conviction cross the line into violence? And what do we risk, or gain, when we act on absolute belief? Big thanks to Bailey, who joins the gents to provide personal context and insight throughout the conversation. And shout out to Birdy Coffee for hosting us for the recording and for the wondrous cappuccino. Here are some resources used in the planning of this episode. Check them out to learn more:Wiebo’s War by Canadian Director David YorkSaboteures: Wiebo Ludwig’s War Against Big Oil (Book)https://www.amazon.ca/Saboteurs-Wiebo-Ludwigs-War-Against/dp/1551990539Short Documentary, CBC Big Life with Daniel RichlerEdmonton Journal Articlehttps://edmontonjournal.com/news/local-news/who-is-wiebo-ludgwig-part-1Edmonton Sun Articleshttps://edmontonsun.com/2013/08/17/weibo-ludwigs-family-admits-to-nothing-apologizes-for-nothing-but-says-acts-of-sabotage-in-alberta-were-justifiedhttps://edmontonsun.com/2012/04/09/dead-at-the-age-of-70CBC Articleshttps://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/wiebo-ludwig-the-making-of-an-eco-warrior-1.1240294https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/convicted-bomber-ludwig-arrested-in-b-c-pipeline-blasts-1.906851https://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ludwig-says-whole-community-to-blame-for-shooting-1.181531Miscellaneoushttps://www.pembina.org/reports/beyond-ecoterrorism.pdfhttps://www.dominionpaper.ca/articles/4396.htmlhttps://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/ludwig-found-guiltyhttps://thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/ludwig-farm-shootinghttps://thetyee.ca/Opinion/2012/04/11/Wiebo-Ludwig-Obituary/ Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

The internet has changed the world in so many ways: Politically, socially, and economically. Our lives are very much “online” these days, and there isn’t really anything we can do about it. The internet is extremely powerful, but is it moving civilization forward in a positive way? Is the technology we use every day getting better, providing a more efficient service, or improving our lives? Does the internet open doors or does it have us trapped? It seems like a topic we’ve touched on over the years, but this time we’re diving in a bit deeper - thanks to Cory Doctorow’s concept of “Enshittification”, Yanis Varoufakis’ arguement for “Technofeudalism: What Killed Capitalism”, and the case study of Charlie Kirk’s killing and the roller coaster of response in the days that followed. It’s not our most cheerful episode, but we’re glad we had the conversation. Let us know what you think using the good ol’ interweb..Thanks as always to our rad sponsors: Blindman Brewing, Cilantro and Chive, The King’s University, and Birdy Coffee Co..See our first real attempt at doing the podcast as a video: Check out the full version of Aesop Rock’s song and music video, Mindful Solutionism: Aesop Rock - Mindful Solutionism (Official Video)Learn more about Cory Doctorow’s Enshittification: How the internet got so bad - YouTubeListen to Yanis Varoufakis explain what a Cloudalist is: Yanis Varoufakis: The new ruling class are not ‘capitalists’ - YouTube Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

We (Graham and Tyler) got together to chat about the ongoing teacher strike in Alberta. The intent of this episode is to shed light on current events from the perspective of local educators, ourselves included, and to provide some context for our non-teacher listeners. The topic hits close to home for us, and challenges our ability to remain harmonious, but we try. Our desire is to be honest, transparent, and hopeful throughout - this last part being the most difficult - and we hope the episode is helpful. Thanks to our colleagues who shared their thoughts on short notice.Note: The views expressed in this episode are those of Graham, Tyler, and a handful of other local educators. Their comments are their own and are not a representation of the Alberta Teachers Association, their schools, or their employer. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

This episode is about slowing down, reflecting on the past, and looking to the future. We’re on the edge of a new Harmonious season, and, before we dive in, we feel like we need to figure a few things out. Why are we doing the things we are doing? What’s the point? Are we living up to our own expectations? We talk about the podcast, of course, but extend the conversation to relationships, careers, and pursuits beyond this silly hobby we have. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

If you could hang out with anyone for one hour, who would you choose? Is there anyone you would refuse to spend one hour with? What's the most harmonious response to these questions?Thanks to our sponsors: Blindman Brewing (blindmanbrewing.com), Cilantro and Chive (cilantroandchive.ca), and the King's University in Edmonton (kingsu.ca) for being the best. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the gents discuss anger. From mild annoyance to volcanic rage, how do we harness the potential of these emotional responses and use them harmoniously. Are we too quick to express our displeasure or do we bottle up our feelings and burn up inside? Is anger something we should avoid or embrace?Let us know what you think about this episode. How angry did it make you? What can we do better? What are we doing well? What should we talk about next?Photo by Nik on UnsplashBig thanks to Blindman Brewing, Cilantro and Chive, and the King’s University in Edmonton, for the support. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the gents discuss Schadenfreude - feeling pleasure as a result of others’ misfortune. They talk about the Coldplay Kiss Cam Incident and dive into the the societal forces that create such a phenomenon. Is it ethical? Is it moral? Is it harmonious to feel joy when others suffer? Oh yeah, Peter is on this episode too! Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

Every good podcast needs to have a pig episode. Francis the pesky porker caught the attention of Central Albertans when he escaped his intended fate and remained a fugitive for nearly five months. Learn more about this pig, and much more on this unique episode with the gents. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the gents discuss friendship. What does it mean to be a “good” friend? Why does it feel like we don’t have any friends? Are the Harmonious Gentlemen BFF’s?Thanks to our sponsors:Blindman BrewingThe King’s UniversityCilantro and ChiveAnd a special thanks to Phil’s Restaurant in Red Deer for the breakfast. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the gents discuss what it means to be proud of your country, province or city. Is it “good” to be patriotic? Or is it Harmonious to be less so? Considering world events and current political tensions, there’s lots to talk about. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the gentlemen roll up their sleeves—literally—to donate blood and reflect on the life-saving impact of this simple act. Along the way, they explore the fascinating and sometimes unsettling history of blood donation, from ancient superstitions to modern science. Why do we give? Who benefits? And what does it say about our collective responsibility to one another? Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the gentlemen tackle a word that often sparks discomfort and debate: privilege. What exactly is it, and how does it differ from power? Is privilege inherently unjust, or can it be used for good? Through honest reflection and respectful dialogue, we explore the many forms of privilege—racial, economic, social, and beyond—and examine the roles they play in our lives. Can we acknowledge the advantages we have without guilt? Would a world without these imbalances be more just—or simply more complicated? Join us as we ask not just what we have, but what we’re willing to do with it. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

As Canadians head to the polls, the Harmonious Gentlemen sit down with Natalie Appleyard, Socio-Economic Policy Analyst at Citizens for Public Justice (CPJ), to talk about what it means to build a more just society—together. Recorded live at Blindman Brewing, this episode blends honest storytelling, policy insight, and community-minded reflection. What role can ordinary citizens play in shaping a fairer future? And how do we move from polarization to shared purpose? Tune in for a thoughtful conversation over a well-crafted pint. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

Episode 137 of the Harmonious Gentlemen plunges into the fascinating world of health fads and wellness trends—from detox teas and crystal healing to cryotherapy and cold plunges (yes, we tried it!). Why do we buy into miracle cures and lifestyle fixes, even when the science is shaky? The gents examine what makes a health habit smart, when it crosses into fad territory, and how to make informed choices in a world full of wellness noise. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

What if the world wasn’t built on competition, but on reciprocity? In this episode, the Gentlemen reflect on two powerful books — The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer and Birding to Change the World by Trish O’Kane — to explore what the natural world can teach us about generosity, attention, and belonging. From berry bushes to bird songs, we ask how small acts of care might offer big lessons for how we live, learn, and lead. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we dive deep into the unfolding health care scandal shaking Alberta. From allegations of political interference and questionable contracts to whistleblower revelations and public outcry, we break down the key players, the latest developments, and what this means for the future of health care in the province. Join us as we unpack the details, explore the broader implications, and ask the tough questions about accountability, transparency, and trust in the system. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

Dr. Caroline Brookfield joins the Gents for a thought-provoking and fun conversation about how creativity is something inside all of us that can be discovered, trained, and used to make the world a better place for ourselves and those around us. How tolerant of ambiguity are you? Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

The Gents continue their conversation about whether or not a divine force is at work in the universe, and if so, what is this “God” like?Featuring audio from:* Amipotence vs. Omnipotence - Thomas Jay Oord* Father Richard Rohr: "God Loves Things By Becoming Them"* Thomas Merton - Life In His Own Words* Neil deGrasse Tyson: Atheist or Agnostic? | Big Think* Why Atheists and Believers Are Actually Agnostic | Bill Nye | Big Think* A Conversation with Rachel Held Evans Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

When it comes to the existence of God, people hold a wide range of perspectives—atheism, agnosticism, deism, theism... In this episode, we explore why these conversations can be difficult and how personal experiences shape our views of the divine. Rather than debating religion or faith, we consider big questions: Does God exist? If so, what kind of God? And how do people claim to experience or understand the divine? With openness and respect, we seek understanding—not certainty—while remaining harmonious in the process. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this fascinating episode, the Gentlemen sit down with Tyler Buit to explore the science and stories behind genetically modified organisms (GMOs). From their origins and practical applications to their portrayal in media and marketing, the conversation dives into the facts and myths surrounding this controversial technology. Together, they discuss the ethical implications of GMOs and how they shape our world. Tune in for an eye-opening discussion that bridges science, ethics, and everyday life, as the Gentlemen work towards understanding and harmony. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we take a deep dive into modern masculinity and the role models shaping young men today. From figures like Donald Trump, Elon Musk, and Jordan Peterson to the broader cultural changes redefining what it means to be a man, we share our personal thoughts, questions, and stories. Are these role models helping or hurting? How are young men navigating the pressures and expectations placed on them in today’s world? With plenty of laughs, honest reflections, and our attempt at depth and humor, we explore the challenges and opportunities of being a man in the modern age. Join us as we search for harmony in an ever-changing, complex conversation. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this thought-provoking episode, the Gentlemen tackle the complex and inspiring topic of sacrifice. What does it really mean to give something up for the benefit of others? Chris, Tyler, and Graham share personal stories, unpack the connection between generosity and well-being, and explore the social and cultural roots of selflessness. But is sacrifice always a good thing? They delve into the tension between self-sacrifice and self-love, the motivations behind our actions, and whether some sacrifices can go too far. Plus, listener feedback, spicy recommendations, and a few laughs along the way. Grab your metaphorical parachute—it’s going to be a ride! Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this deeply personal and emotional episode, the Harmonious Gentlemen continue their conversation with Peter Rockhold, who shares his personal story of leaving the Christian Reformed Church of North America. Reflecting on his powerful speech delivered at a recent Classis meeting, Peter opens up about the struggles, convictions, and cultural tensions that led to his decision.  The Gentlemen explore the broader realities of the culture wars shaping our lives, the challenges they pose for faith communities, and the toll they take on individuals. As they say a bittersweet farewell to their friend and honorary Gent, this episode offers a candid and compassionate conversation about faith, change, and navigating divisions with grace. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of The Harmonious Gentlemen, the Gents are once again joined by their long-time friend and past guest, Peter Rockhold. Peter, formerly a leader in the Christian Reformed Church in Alberta and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, leads a thought-provoking conversation on the current state of culture wars in North America, particularly the church’s role in these divisive times. Peter opens up about his personal experiences navigating the intersection of faith and identity, offering insight into how members of the vulnerable communities are affected by the ongoing cultural and religious tensions. They discuss the true victims of culture wars, the responses to a growing divide, and the ways we can move toward greater understanding, inclusion and harmony. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the Gents revisit the topic of phones and their impact on mental health.  Codi Kreil returns, providing insight and expertise to the conversation.  Continuing a previous conversation, this one goes deeper.  Can we trust everything we read about social media and phones?  Is a moral panic what we need to right the ship in a mental health crisis?  How do we manage our collective addiction to social media?  Stop scrolling, go for a walk, and give this episode a listen! Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the Harmonious Gentlemen are joined by Kath Hoffman, former Executive Director of Safe Harbour, to discuss the pressing issue of homelessness in Central Alberta. With two decades of experience providing housing, detox support, outreach services, and Indigenous support, Safe Harbour has been at the forefront of helping vulnerable residents find stability.Together, they explore the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness, the vital role of community support, and the ongoing efforts to create lasting solutions. Join us as we dig into the realities of housing insecurity, the impact of local initiatives, and the power of empathy in addressing this critical issue. Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, the Harmonious Gentlemen explore the complex figure of Donald Trump—not just as a politician, but as a symbol. They discuss how his persona evokes strong reactions, why people still support him, and the psychology behind "Trumpism." With empathy at the heart of the conversation, the Gentlemen consider how to approach such a divisive topic, and reflect on the emotional and psychological forces driving today's political landscape. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, we delve into some of Alberta's hidden stories, focusing on the forgotten tragedies that shaped our province's infrastructure and industrial growth. We'll recount the harrowing tale of Charles Elick, a survivor of the devastating Frank Slide, and explore how he and others endured the aftermath of one of Canada’s deadliest natural disasters.But Elick's survival is only the beginning. We’ll discuss the broader dangers of coal mining in Alberta, the toll it took on communities, and the lasting legacy of industrialization. Join us as we reflect on the human cost of building our modern world, the risks that workers faced, and the scars that remain on the land and in memory. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe

Reflecting on the season that was. Looking ahead to the season that will be. Refocusing on the pursuit of harmony. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com Get full access to The Harmonious Gentlemen Podcast at harmoniousgentlemen.substack.com/subscribe