PODCAST · society
QOL
by Hugh Kruzel
Hugh Kruzel's program Quality of Life (QOL) was originally launched as "Eat This! Drink That!" some 8 years ago. Hugh visits anywhere - and explores - any topic that improves your quality of life.
Episodes
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Do you have a hidden disability? Check out what wearing a sunflower means
Hidden disability? Well, we see a cane - maybe a hearing aid - and we know this person might have had an injury, or a challenge for life... but what if the hurdle is anxiety or autism, or arthritis, or dementia? Wearing a lanyard or pin with the sunflower is a discrete way to say "I need more…
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What do you know about the wines of Argentina
What a delight to have a conversation with Jasmine Montgomery. She represents several progressive wineries of Argentina. Her 15 year stay brought her into contact with more than Malbec. The "emblematic" grape of the country is still riding a wave of enthusiasm but it is joined by many you have…
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No More Noise! Advocacy by Ingrid Bouday so important to QOL
What is the effect of noise on your life? We now know hearing loss can contribute to Alzheimer’s disease. Ingrid Bouday joins me in conversation about quiet, silence and noise; specifically human made noise both persistent and punctuations in our day. Her group "No More Noise" advocates for...
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Problems on Pandora and elsewhere addressed by Themis Security
Pandora's 900 block (and more) is ground zero for violence, homelessness, drugs, and anti-social behaviour. VicPD is obviously involved in quelling the volume, but others are also putting an effort in to make it safer for everyone. Collaboration with so many is the only way to damp the unrest.…
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Are you a shift worker? Audra Starkey can help
Our world depends on shift workers. They are our emergency workers: police, fire, ambulances... and nurses, doctors, and so much more. Our transportation system functions 24/7 as does much manufacturing. We don't shut down and maybe the 9-5 world of work is becoming mythology. Audra Starkey knows...
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Downsizing one way to extend your quality of life: Ask Jim Stover
At some point the stairs become a challenge. The laundry room may be in the basement, and you just can't do it anymore. There could be a health crisis or a fall. Suddenly your forever home is a burden what with gutters to clear, and maybe a roof that needs care. James (Jim) Stover to the rescue....
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Sticker campaign brings more visibility to Highway 69 inaction
Highways 69 is a vital piece of our provincial and national highway system. If that is true why are 68 kilometers still just 2 lanes? Deaths and injuries from collisions (many head-on) continue to mount. Does Queen's Park hear the pleas to act? MPPs France Gelinas and Jamie West have launched a...
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Hazel is the inspiration for amazing ice cream bars
Wave back to Adrien Smart. He brings Hazel's Ice Cream Bars to the Thursday Esquimalt market. What a treat! Inspired by Hazel these locally produced bars are now in chain grocery stores - you can even find them in the Yukon - and so many unique spots like country fairs and festivals. Great…
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The RCAF Snowbirds do their swansong
The countdown is closing in on the last days of the Snowbirds. This Canadian airshow favourite is soon to fly no more. In Victoria they arrived at YYJ after a flypass to celebrate the BC Aviation Museum's unveiling of their piece of history. The crowd cheered and the huge turnout celebrated…
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From NYC Margaret Ross talks menus and more
A Master's graduate from Milan Margaret Ross is now in Manhattan. She has done so much with menus and design in hospitality that we could talk for hours including about airline food. Here we have a conversation about restaurants, presentation, what's hot and what's not... and of course the…
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Flavour enhanced using the skills of Dr. Yana Steudel
In the air - at altitude - your senses are diminished. Put food in your mouth and it can seem flat and shallow. Most inflight caterers could add salt, seasonings/spices, fats, or sweet elements. Dr. Yana has created a fresh option that triggers sensations and expressions without more of…
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Emandare: A new to me vineyard/winery is pure delight
I thought I knew all about Vancouver Island wineries so it was delightful to start a conversation with Mike Nierychlo. He and his wife Robin are not just growing grape but raising a family on this little piece of paradise. A truly quiet corner of the Cowichan Valley you will find this a…
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Kerry McGregor speaks about working in Australia as life circumstances change
So maybe you are 50, or 60, or life throws a curve ball at you... what systems are in place to be that safety net? Have you saved enough? Did you ask to be "downsized" or pushed aside? Skills are lost, and corporate knowledge/wisdom disappears, but often no one cares except the worker who is laid...
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Getting home repair list checked off - with one click
What could really improve your quality of life? I believe crossing off tasks - getting stuff fixed or jobs completed - really can remove stress and anxiety. There may be 10 small projects, but you never seem to have the time, the tools, or the skills, to "Git-R-Done!" Okay, not exactly one click,...
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Let's talk about airline food with Richard Foss
With social media and phone cameras it seems everyone is documenting the plates that are presented in restaurants; with time on our hands while transiting the continent and planet airline food gets even more attention. Join me for an enlightening conversation with author Richard Foss who is an...
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A journey with Cacao: going from bean to bar
An invitation from Leanne Teron and John Cave and add the associated words cacao and chocolate... it couldn't be a more delightful way to spend a Sunday afternoon! Understanding the growing, the cultivation, the origins of the trees, pods and their beans, brings a better appreciation of the...
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Sam Jones knows how to make a great cup of coffee
It has been years... what a wonderful reconnection with Sam Jones. Here we are at his 2%Jazz Hillside location talking about what makes a great cup of coffee. In the hospitality industry for more than 3 decades Sam has created a welcoming 3rd place for you to meet at; what he offers as a brew...
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Hearing an essential element in enjoying your Quality of Life
Loss of sight (or diminishment) can be terrible; taste and smell can also decline. But the incremental decline in hearing often goes unnoticed, until something triggers action. Join me in conversation with 3 subject matter experts as we discuss how easy it is to improve your quality of life with...
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Learn about regenerative processes from Louis De Jaeger
A total treat to connect with eco-thought leader Louis De Jaeger. I've been following him (maybe you have too) on various social media platforms. He speaks, writes, and motivates more than just his Belgian countrypersons to consider the value of food over pharma. He has influenced even their king...
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Visiting Victoria Classic Lingerie to talk about comfort
Can you imagine wearing an undergarment that does fit? Apparently, few people ever take the time or make the effort to ensure the bra you wear is for you. Though this is a visit with a specific provisioner in Victoria the situation is countrywide and global. And my guest on this episode…
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Improve your driving skills and enjoyment with some learning
19 turns, elevation gain (and descent too) plus instruction and this is a place to improve your driving skills. You can google Island Motorsports Circuit and learn more about what they offer. I kept hearing about the place and had the urge to know more. I had the pleasure of a morning visit to…
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Esquimalt High School's Culinary program is exceptional
"Yes, Chef!" certainly rings out as acknowledgement in the kitchen and prep area at Esquimalt High School. Brandon Aris has been guiding the culinary program here for 15 years. Students learn food safety, knife skills, programing and planning, and how to turn ingredients into a meal. From basics...
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The Wines of Averill Creek
Andy Johnston has a beautiful spot on overlooking the Cowichan Valley. The terrace is a perfect spot to progress through the spectrum of natural wines he produces from his vineyards. At about 7000 cases this winery has never gone off-island for fruit. Pinot is the focus though there are other...
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Visiting Merridale for cider, distilled apple beverages and a great patio
It had been more that 15 years since my last visit to Merridale. It was like the time just dropped away once Jan and I started our conversation about all things apple. For her it has been a nearly 3 decade project. The results are wonderful. This may be a destination for dining and retail... but...
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In Taiwan sustainability efforts can be part of your hotel or train travel
Ian Lin and Anita Wu have a company that manufactures hotel slippers and covers for your train seat headrest. They are also making bags for shipping laptops and more at their Washcan operation. The cool thing is that these are not single use! The slippers are biodegradable and are like the other...
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Talking about cancer with Joe Hunwicks
Joe Hunwicks and I connected for a different reason, but it opened up a new opportunity. He was willing to talk about his current cancer journey. A new round of radiation began this past week; like for so many firefighters the cancer originally was in his lungs. Joe shares how today's…
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Ryes & Shine is a Langford destination
Born out of the times of COVID here is a project that brings a smile to those who discover what it does. Words spelt so many ways can evoke that. Cheeky turns, a hint of wry humour and the result is eye and ear catching; Ryes and Shine is definitely that. Kelly Darwin offers more than a just a...
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Acupuncture? Why not!
Acupuncture? Have you tried it? Would you? What if it improved your Quality of Life? Meet Alexandra (Alex) Henneberry. She is a graduate of Pacific Rim College and is a Registered Acupuncturist (R.Ac). We take time to talk about the philosophy, treatment, and impact. Alex kindly shares her vision...
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Mustard Seed ensuring people don't go hungry: A visit to the Food Bank
This episode starts back at the Viewfield Food Distribution Centre where Chris Hammer speaks about fruit rescue. The next conversation is about preparing food for the Queens Street site... and so of course we transfer there to see where individuals and families can find the nourishment they need....
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Touring the multifaceted Food Security Distribution Centre with Treska Watson
Viewfield Road is a little off most people's maps, but beside the many warehouses and businesses there is a key player in the regional food system. Executive Director Treska Watson takes us for a walk from the loading bays through all the spaces that ensure so much food is directed and…
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Mayor Barb Desjardins on Quality of Life in Esquimalt
She has been elected 5 times! Definitely doing something right. Mayor Bard Desjardins has been influential in shaping this township: its mix of housing, its recreational and retail spaces, plus the relationship with the Canadian Navy are part of what makes it work. Mayor Barb reflects on the...
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O.U.R. Ecovillage part 3: On site in the Healing Sanctuary
I recall participating in retreats here. In this episode we are inside the hand sculpted cob building that is the Healing Sanctuary. Brand Gallagher and I talk more about the Ecovillage and how it came to be. She shares the history of almost 3 decades of learning how to be a community and also a...
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O.U.R. Ecovillage - Part Two
This is Part Two of my visit to the O.U.R. Ecovillage. Brandy Gallagher shares more about the philosophy of the place, offers a tour of the buildings and systems that make it a showcase of the possible. Come along for a walk and talk.
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O.U.R. Ecovillage more than an intentional community
This is part one of a four episode series. It didn't start that way; it sort of just happened. When opportunity presents itself, you should run with it. Brandy Gallagher gave me two of the greatest gifts: she shared her time and enthusiasm. It has been more than 17 years since my last visit to…
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Forward thinking with Amy Friesen of Tea & Toast
Tea & Toast ? The name of Amy Friesen's company caught my attention... maybe yours too? It is a launch pad for conversations about the future. Your future, your loved one's future. Aging does not necessarily mean a diminishment, but if we don't talk about stairs, vision, cognition, then...
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The Esquimalt Farmers Market is a community magnet
Who doesn't love a market? A farmers' market is a real community event. In Esquimalt Mel was kind enough to share the history and current progress of the local market. We have a conversation about merchants, music, and shoppers. Sitting right in the same park where the Thursday evening weekly…
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Volunteers at the Ecovillage
Come along and meet some wonderful young people. You can hear their hopefulness and enthusiasm. Staying at the EcoVillage they help with the farm and all the chores. Dan was working on installing a green roof, while others were on gardening and animal husbandry duties. Preparation for a free-food...
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Meet someone who recommends how to fix airline experience gaps
What a pleasure to talk to someone who has the ear of airlines; well, if he is brought in to consult and recommend. It is more than getting passengers from A to B to C says Vassilios Georgakopoulos. As an airline consultant he focuses on the inflight experience. Mostly he fixes that gap between...
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Blue Grouse offers stunning views of vineyards... come for a taste experience
Many thanks to Stacy Hornemann for the conversation and opportunity to taste current offerings at Blue Grouse Winery. The views from their reception centre are stunningly perfect. You could spend the day just looking out over the vines to the mountains beyond. But - of course - you are here to...
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Alderlea is a winery you must visit when in the Cowichan
Want to live the dream? Well Julie Powell and Zac Brown are. They are now the team carrying Alderlea Vineyards forward. It is a pretty property with a gentle slope towards the modifying lake water. Make a reservation and you will find such value in understanding the vineyard's history and...
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The Holocene Distilling Project creates magic
Where eco-friendly objectives, a philosophy that generates bottles of magic, and tastes/flavours that are unique... what do you have? Holocene Distilling Project is actually not far off the Trans-Canada Highway near Cobble Hill, but under towering evergreens it feels a world away. Go to their...
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Get out into nature... it will do you good
Prescribing time in nature is something that has come of age. It isn't just a West Coast thing that requires a tie-dyed t-shirt. Dr. Melissa Lem kindly tells us some 20,000 Canadian health professionals agree that to reduce stress, and maybe even extend your quality of life, you need to see…
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Let's talk with author Mark Leslie
Cornucopia... maybe that's word? Talking with Canadian author Mark Leslie ( Lefebvre ) you can't but recognize his ability to leap from concept to completion. He is a prolific writer of "speculative fiction" and that in itself is very broad topic. Listen along a find out how many books he has...
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Crystal Shawanda plays at Knox Hall May 1st 2026
What a delight to have a conversation with Crystal Shawanda. This blues/rock/jazz performer has power and precision both as a singer and storyteller. Her voice shares stories of the highs and lows of life in a way no one else does. Catch her on tour from coast to coast to coast as she tours this...
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Let's celebrate the 90 years of Gerard Courtin
Okay! I'll admit it: talking to Dr. Gerard Courtin is a bit like a walk down Memory Lane for me. A very personal experience perhaps? But there are so many of us who attended his classes, went to labs, did field trips... we followed him up and over blackened hills, and into snowy landscapes. His...
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"Wake Up Call" book launch
It's happening this week: a book launch. Melanie Rollins and Lynne Dupuis are ready to welcome you at Place des Arts in Sudbury. Listen along for details. If you can't attend, you can still order a book. It provides a very useful framework to help non-profits with governance as well as being...
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2025 was tough: Let's have a conversation with Isaac Harvey
We've been wanting to talk for some time: well, here it is. Isaac Harvey speaks about his happier 2026 and the challenges of 2025. He now has secure supportive housing and funding to ensure care. Bestowed with an MBE he may now have even more of voice when it comes to accessibility and...
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Amandipp Singh and his Enable Talent tools
Lived experience can lead to launching a business. "Enable Talent" is more than a business. Amandipp Singh has built a network of people and a platform addressing the employment barriers facing people with disabilities. It empowers and solves challenges. It delivers "value over advice" says…
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Amy Wald talks evolving sustainable tourism and conscious travel
Not that we were unconscious, but now we are asking questions and often pushing the travel industry to think about what it offers and the implications of the suite of services. From carbon offsets, to being aware of the potential to raise communities' opportunities, Amy is asking "Why?" when it...
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Farmer, grower, winery owner and lover of all that makes a glass sing
It is a narrower number of passionate people who are involved in all the activities that eventually make wine for you to enjoy. Todd Anderson will install posts and training wire, drive a tractor, watch the grapes grow, harvest, encourage the magic that transforms juice into wine... all this and...
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does QOL have?
QOL currently has 293 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is QOL about?
Hugh Kruzel's program Quality of Life (QOL) was originally launched as "Eat This! Drink That!" some 8 years ago. Hugh visits anywhere - and explores - any topic that improves your quality of life.
How often does QOL release new episodes?
QOL publishes regularly with 293 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to QOL?
You can listen to QOL on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts QOL?
QOL is created and hosted by Hugh Kruzel.
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