CAAT Tales (the podcast)

In this heavy-hitting episode, host Julie White takes us to the front lines of a system in crisis. From a spirited rally outside the offices of MPP Nolan Quinn to the devastating news of mass layoffs and "involuntary transfers" at St. Lawrence College, this episode explores the human cost of chronic underfunding and systemic restructuring.We hear from union leaders, frontline healthcare workers, and students who are all witnessing the erosion of public education in real-time.We talk with Local 417 President Christina Decarie about the historic mass layoff of faculty across SLC.Finally, we transition from the structural to the personal with author Deanna Davies, whose new book, The In-Between, offers a somatic lens on navigating profound uncertainty and loss.Key Segments & Timestamps[00:26] The Rally at Cornwall: Julie White introduces the episode from a protest in support of education, highlighting the "consequences in real time" of recent provincial decisions.[01:20] Solidarity in the Face of Demoralization: OPSEU/SEFPO President J.P. Hornick discusses the fight against an employer trying to "deliberately demoralize" staff and the filing of an unfair labor practice.[03:37] The Healthcare Connection: Frontline healthcare workers and college alumni explain why the "starving" of the college system directly threatens the longevity of public healthcare and the local workforce.[13:12] A Student’s Perspective: Jack Peets, a nursing student, describes a campus without a library or bookstore and the crushing burden of the 70% loan to 30% grant OSAP flip.[19:44] The Loss of Varsity Culture: Coach Ryan VanDyl speaks on the cancellation of tournament sports—like cross-country and golf—and the impact on student mental health and recruitment.[24:07] The "Saddest Day" at SLC: Christina Decarie, President of Local 417, breaks down the elimination of faculty positions and the "shifting sands" of the St. Lawrence/Fleming merger.[35:21] Member Spotlight: Deanna Davies: A moving conversation about Davies' new book, The In-Between, exploring embodied leadership and the cost of silence during times of organizational threat."Cuts aren't numbers on a spreadsheet. They're people. They're services. They're the future of public education." — Julie White"Silence is not neutral, empty or passive. Silence does something. When information disappears... uncertainty becomes embodied." — Deanna DaviesResources MentionedThe In-Between by Deanna Davies: Available on Amazon and Lulu.Elevate3.ca: For more information on Deanna’s work in somatic healing and leadership.OPSEU/SEFPO Local 417 & 418: Updates on the St. Lawrence College faculty and support staff advocacy.Calls to ActionStay Informed: Follow the ongoing updates regarding the St. Lawrence College and Fleming College merger and its impact on regional programming.Contact Your Representative: Hold local MPPs accountable for the funding of public post-secondary education.Tell Doug Ford workers and students are united for fair education. Sign the open letterSupport Local Authors: Check out The In-Between for insights on staying grounded when the external world lacks stability.

This episode dives into the uncertainty facing faculty and support staff at St. Lawrence and Fleming Colleges as layoffs, program suspensions, and an unprecedented merger reshape the sector.Julie speaks with Christina Decarie and Tabatha Rutledge about what came out of recent fireside chats, what involuntary transfers may look like, and why so many answers simply don’t exist yet.We also cover the historic first day of part‑time/sessionals bargaining, the union’s unfair labour practice filing, and the growing demand for transparency from the College Employer Council.OPSEU/SEFPO President JP Hornick joins to break down why the union took this step and what it means for workers across the system. Finally, we hear from Local 418 Lead Steward April Stevens, who shares the support staff perspective and the impact of withheld information on bargaining.This episode is about accountability, solidarity, and navigating a sector in crisis — together.00:00 — Opening & Episode Overview Uncertainty, change, and community strength as the merger and layoffs unfold.01:28 — A Historic First Day of PT/Sessional Bargaining Solidarity at the table and the union’s response to withheld information.02:10 — Why the Union Filed a ULP The push for transparency and a halt to layoffs and merger actions.03:14 — Know Your Rights Preview Upcoming segment on layoffs, displacement, recall, and severance.03:27 — Fireside Chats: What We Learned Christina and Tabatha reflect on turnout, questions, and member concerns. 05:29 — What Involuntary Transfers Could Look Like Campus moves, program shifts, and why so many answers don’t exist yet.08:45 — Declining a Transfer & Seniority Questions What happens if you refuse, and what we still don’t know about merged lists.09:47 — Supporting Members Through the Unknown Resumes, advocacy, steward training, and preparing for first‑ever processes.12:07 — Local Elections & Leadership Changes Why new voices and many hands are needed now more than ever.13:53 — The Tone on Campus: Uncertainty & Stress Layoff fears, timelines, recall, and the reality of shifting sands.16:34 — Precarity & Partial‑Load Losses The human impact of disappearing work.17:16 — Any Hope? College optimism, program development, and the realities behind it.19:02 — What Happens Next More questions heading to management — and why compassion matters.20:56 — Christina’s Retirement & Hidden Impacts Why assumptions can hurt and why kindness matters.21:21 — How Layoff Decisions Are Actually Made Seniority, process, and the myth of “being nice.”22:29 — Transition to JP Hornick The shift in power at the bargaining table.22:43 — JP Hornick: Why This Moment Matters Historic bargaining, disclosure failures, and the ULP.25:47 — The Funding Crisis & Systemic Threats Why the sector is at a breaking point.27:30 — A Call for a Moratorium on Layoffs Protecting jobs and resisting government‑driven restructuring.28:41 — JP’s Message to Faculty & Staff Solidarity, power, and why fighting back matters.28:51 — April Stevens: Support Staff Perspective Transparency failures, bargaining impacts, and the Georgian closures.

In this episode, we take you inside a pivotal moment for Ontario’s public college system. Julie speaks with local organizer Tabatha Rutledge about the April 29th provincial Day of Action — a rolling rally from Kingston to Brockville to Cornwall calling attention to the chronic underfunding of Ontario’s colleges and the growing threat to accessible, community‑based education.Tabatha shares why this rally matters, what’s at stake for students, workers, and communities, and how collective action can push back against the erosion of public education. From bus logistics to the deeper fight against privatization, this conversation captures the urgency and energy behind the movement.In the second half of the episode, Julie sits down with Dale Gartshore and Greg Dickson to unpack a historic milestone: the first‑ever bargaining table meeting for Ontario’s part‑time and sessional faculty. They discuss momentum across all four CAAT divisions, the realities of precarity, and why this first contract will shape the future of the entire college sector.Plus, this week’s Member Spotlight features Adam McGregor, whose sabbatical research explores how Ontario’s universities are navigating performance‑based funding, financial pressures, and shifting expectations.Key TopicsThe April 29th Day of Action: purpose, route, and how to participateWhy chronic underfunding threatens accessibility, local education, and community workforce developmentThe impact of the St. Lawrence–Fleming mergerHow faculty and support staff can attend without violating workload rulesThe importance of solidarity across campuses and divisionsHistoric first bargaining meeting for part‑time and sessional facultyWhat “raising the floor” means for all college employeesMember Spotlight: Adam McGregor’s research on Ontario’s Strategic Mandate Agreement 3Featured GuestsTabatha Rutledge — Rally organizerDale Gartshore — Divisional Executive, Part‑Time & Sessional FacultyGreg Dickson — Vice Chair, Part‑Time & Sessional Bargaining TeamAdam McGregor — Faculty member and researcher (Member Spotlight)Resources & LinksOpen Letter: Workers and Students United for Fair Education link:Workers and students united! – OPSEU/SEFPOBus Registration Form link:EDUCATION RALLY, APRIL 26Wear red on April 29th.Sign the open letter.Talk to your colleagues, students, neighbours, and community.And if you can — get on the bus.

We had to go old-school to get today's podcast posted due to some technical errors (so we're a little late and it's a bit bumpy, but we're here!).Episode 20 is a deep‑dive into one of the most turbulent weeks in Ontario’s college sector. The surprise merger announcement between St. Lawrence College and Fleming College sets the stage for a full episode examining organizing, transparency, precarity, and the future of public post‑secondary education.The episode includes:A convention‑floor update on the emergency OPSEU/SEFPO motionA candid interview with Fleming College Academic Local President Kim Bell (Local 352)A full Fine Print Forum panel unpacking the April 14 town hall with SLC's Support & Academic Local Presidents Amanda Shaw, Christina Decarie and Christina ChryslerA celebration of Gillian Axten’s provincial Human Rights AwardA sector‑wide analysis of staffing with Martin Lee (Algonquin College)The 411 on the 417 union updates

The episode discusses the unexpected integration announcement by St. Lawrence College and Fleming College, its impact on the campus workforce, and the support and solidarity among members and colleges in response to the announcement.TakeawaysUnexpected integration announcementImpact on campus workforceSupport and solidarity

The conversation delves into the financial transparency and deficit within the college, the challenges and struggles faced by faculty members, and the representation of part-time and sessional faculty. It provides insights into the financial details, the impact of layoffs, and the need for transparency. Additionally, it explores the struggles of faculty life, including the lack of accessibility to information and the importance of representation for part-time and sessional faculty.00:00 Intro01:15 Beyond the Headlines: March College Conversations07:40 Part-Time & All In: Dale & Greg on Bargaining Prep18:55 Kinda, Sorta, Maybe Grievable26:10 Under 35 Opportunity28:45 Closing Thoughts

In this special edition of CAAT Tales, we shine a light on OPSEU/SEFPO Region 4 activism, the people stepping up, and the pressures reshaping our sector.From constitutional debates to hardship supports, from a newcomer’s first steps into union life to Algonquin College’s escalating crisis, this episode captures the grit, humour, and heart that fuel our movement. These are the stories behind the work — and the workers behind the stories.00:00 – Welcome: Why This Moment Matters for Region 401:29 – Gillian Axten: Inside the Constitution Committee (Nerd Heaven Edition)05:05 – Tabatha Rutledge: Hardship, Humanity & Accountability08:45 – Lending Our Skills: Francophone Work & Provincial Engagement13:00 – Arya Raju: From International Student to Union Delegate22:28 – Algonquin College: Cuts, Chaos & Collective Pushback38:03 – Tracy Henderson: Stepping Up to the Executive Board45:57 – Christina Chrysler: What’s Coming at OPSEU Convention55:11 – Closing Thoughts: Transparency, Solidarity & Next Steps

In this International Women’s Month edition of CAAT Tales, we celebrate the women who shape our lives, our classrooms, and our communities. Guest host Ekta Singh returns with a deeply warm and reflective installment of Belonging at the Table, joined by professors Xu Han and Allison Taylor. Together, they explore the women who raised them, the food and traditions that anchor their identities, and the ways care, culture, and leadership show up in their teaching at St. Lawrence College.We also continue our popular segment Is It a Gripe or a Grievance?, where Gillian Axten breaks down Article 13, academic freedom, and what faculty can do when instructional direction conflicts with professional judgment.Finally, in our Member Spotlight, host Julie White sits down with part-time faculty member Maria Helena Delgado, who shares her journey from Bogotá to Kingston, her work as an interpreter, and the courage that lives inside every accent..TakeawaysThe influence of women in everyday acts is powerfulNavigating academic contracts and asserting academic freedom is essential Embracing change and new opportunitiesThe power of mentorship and impactful teachingChapters00:00 The Power of Women in Everyday Acts05:55 Family Traditions and Cultural Identity11:32 Transition to Canada and Family Support17:07 Cultural Understanding and Communication23:02 Teaching Indigenous Ways of Knowing30:07 Empowering International Students and Cultures35:21 Cultural Understanding and Inclusivity in Education42:17 Embracing Diversity and Unique Experiences

In this episode of CAAT Tales, host Julie White sits down with longtime SLC Trades Professor Barry Botham for a deeply human conversation about grief, caregiving, and the unexpected path that led him to become an end‑of‑life doula.Barry shares how supporting students through profound loss reshaped his work, what it means to hold space for people at the end of life, and why he’s now designing a 22‑string reverie harp for use in music therapy.Later, in the Fine Print Forum, Communications Lead Christina Chrysler unpacks the Ontario Court of Appeal’s recent ruling on Bill 178 — the 2017 back‑to‑work legislation that ended the faculty strike. She breaks down what the decision means for our Charter rights, how the Oakes test shaped the outcome, and what this precedent could mean for future bargaining across the labour movement.Plus, in Know Your Rights, Curtis Runions walks listeners through the foundational workload caps in Article 11 of our Collective Agreement — 44 hours total, 18 teaching contact hours, and the upcoming increase to seven hours of complementary functions.It’s an episode that blends humour, humanity, legal insight, and practical guidance—reflecting the full spectrum of life in our college community.YouTube Code for Music clearance: NPXY0YQVYZIJHMOW

This week on CAAT Tales, we explore belonging, applied research, and the financial realities shaping student life at SLC.Ekta Singh speaks with Dr. Maha Othman about identity, faith, and the rhythms of Ramadan in Belonging at the Table.We spotlight nursing faculty Julie Dyke and Andrea Rochon, whose new NSERC/COCO‑CIF grant is driving a province‑wide applied research project in long‑term care.And we close with Financial Aid Advisor Kyle Valpy and Local 417 Communications Officer Christina Chrysler, unpacking the Ford government’s OSAP changes and what they could mean for students.🕒 Chapters00:26 — Welcome & Episode Overview Host Julie White introduces segments on Belonging, research, and the financial pressures facing students.01:55 — OSAP Changes Explained What the shift from 85% to 25% grants means and how students are reacting.03:16 — Federal vs. Provincial Funding Kyle breaks down how OSAP assessments actually work.04:10 — Student Concerns Living allowance gaps, affordability worries, and early questions.07:19 — Student Advocacy & Save OSAP Organizing, rallies, and the political context.09:12 — Supports Beyond OSAP Emergency funds, bursaries, food resources, and debunking the “OSAP means you can’t work” myth.13:05 — Who Applies for OSAP? Why 65% of domestic students apply—and why more should.16:39 — Tuition Increases The upcoming 2% annual rise and what it signals.🍲 22:03 — Belonging at the Table: Dr. Maha OthmanIdentity, faith, mentorship, and the sensory memories of Ramadan.26:21 — The Aroma of Home Soup simmering before iftar and the grounding role of Quran recitation.30:16 — Rhythms of Ramadan Fasting, prayer, and time management.34:02 — Sharing Ramadan with Students Visibility, connection, and inspiration.35:12 — Institutional Awareness Prayer spaces, scheduling challenges, and what support looks like.40:48 — Key Arabic Phrases Ramadan Kareem, Eid Mubarak, and how to offer meaningful greetings.🔬 44:45 — Member Spotlight: NSERC/COCO‑CIF GrantA three‑year applied research project focused on long‑term care placements and nursing recruitment.45:36 — Teaching & Research Journeys How Julie and Andrea arrived at this work.50:35 — The Project’s Core Question Improving LTC placements to strengthen the workforce pipeline.52:20 — Social Media Strategy Reframing LTC as meaningful, skilled, and rewarding.55:07 — Scope & Timeline A province‑wide initiative with multi‑site partnerships.1:03:07 — Student Research Assistants Building capacity and creating paid opportunities.1:04:46 — Advice for COCO‑CIF Applicants Start early, build partnerships, think big.Interested in learning more about the grant process? Visit College and Community Social Innovation Fund grants | Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of CanadaCollege and Community Social Innovation Fund grants | Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of CanadaYouTube Code for Music clearance: NPXY0YQVYZIJHMOW

Creativity, Coding, and Collective Power: Chris Trimmer, Dale Gartshore & James DupuisThis episode marks a turning point for CAAT Tales as we expand our spotlight to include the growing movement of part‑time and sessional faculty across Ontario’s colleges. With certification finally secured after eight long years, a new division is taking shape—and the work of organizing, connecting, and building power is happening right now.We open the show with Steward Chris Trimmer, whose mix of psychology, music, data, and student‑centred teaching sets the tone for how creativity and advocacy can intersect on campus. But the heart of this episode is our deep dive into the province‑wide mobilization underway for part‑time and sessional faculty.Dale Gartshore from Local 125 joins us to unpack the historic 2017 vote, the sealed ballot boxes, and the overwhelming 71 percent mandate that finally became official in 2024. Dale walks us through what certification means, why EMF signings are the engine of this moment, and how the upcoming 24‑college roadshow is designed to build relationships, strengthen composite locals, and prepare for a first collective agreement that truly reflects the needs of precarious faculty. Watch for them coming to SLC campuses in early April!Finally, James Dupuis opens up about the Game Programming industry, sharing his passion for working with students and problem-solving. He admits that Professor isn’t a role he thought he’d see on his resume when he was in high school, but it is a role he’s found comfort in.💡 Why This Episode MattersPart‑time and sessional faculty now have a certified division, a bargaining team, and a province‑wide organizing plan—and this episode helps set the stage for what comes next. It’s a moment of momentum, clarity, and collective purpose, and we’re bringing it directly to the members who will shape the first agreement.Chapters:01:01 Getting to Know Your LEC: Chris Trimmer04:39 Chris's Path to Teaching at SLC07:40 Music, CBT, and Teaching Philosophy09:40 Joining Local 417 & the Data Group13:51 Collaboration across the College15:32 Launching Part Time & All In15:51 Meet Dale Gartshore17:24 The Climate for Part-Time Faculty20:19 Solidarity In Action22:52 Growth of Part-Time Faculty & Precarity25:07 The Roadshow and Member Engagement28:37 Preparing for a First Collective Agreement34:46 The CAAT Family42:56 Is it a Gripe or a Grievance?44:26 Member Spotlight - Meet James Dupuis50:22 Growing in the Game Programming Industry56:04 The Madden-ing Years59:55 Shaking the Dislike for Presentations01:02:28 Game Programming is Much More than GamingYouTube Code for Music clearance: NPXY0YQVYZIJHMOW

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

🎙️ Show NotesFine Print Forum + Getting to Know Your LEC: John HolmesWelcome back to CAAT Tales, hosted by Julie White.In this episode, we launch our very first Fine Print Forum, bringing Local 417 voices together to unpack the headlines shaping our campuses and our sector. Then we shift gears and get to know LEC member John Holmes—including one of the most unintentionally hilarious rapid‑fire answers we’ve had yet.📰 Fine Print ForumProvincial Funding Announcement — What Does $6.4B Really Mean?Guests:Christina Decarie, President, Local 417Chris Chrysler, Communications Officer, Local 417We break down the February 12th provincial announcement and explore:Why $6.4B is significant—but still years overdueHow chronic underfunding continues to shape Ontario collegesThe lack of clarity around allocation, timelines, and strings attachedWhy faculty and students shouldn’t let their guard downThe political timing of the announcement and its impact on pre‑bargainingThe risk of public perception shifting back to “greedy teacher” narrativesOSAP Restructuring & Tuition IncreasesThe conversation turns to:The shift toward 75% loans / 25% grantsHow tuition increases act as a “poor tax”Barriers for mature students, rural students, and low‑income familiesThe ripple effects on enrolment, labour shortages, and community wellbeingWhy access to education is a necessity—not a privilegeCAAT Pension Plan Governance ReviewWe discuss:The appointment of a new acting CEO and plan managerWhy current issues relate to governance, not fund performanceOPSEU/SEFPO’s transparency and oversightWhy members should stay informedLeadership News: Glenn’s New RoleGlenn’s appointment as chair of the Ontario Regional Economic and Workforce Innovation Network sparks a conversation about:The importance of rural and northern college representationHow smaller colleges build collective strengthEnsuring leadership stays connected to on‑the‑ground realitiesIs it a Gripe of a Grievance? Coordinator Roles: Rights & RealitiesGillian joins briefly to answer a member question:There is no right to become coordinatorManagement makes the appointmentCoordinators are encouraged to rotate and take breaks🎤 Getting to Know Your LEC: John HolmesJohn’s JourneyHis early goal of joining the Foreign ServiceStudying at RMC and paying his own tuition to avoid mandatory serviceTeaching around the worldWhat brought him back to Canada and eventually to SLCWhy he loves the flexibility, collegiality, and idea‑driven environment of teachingUnion StewardshipJohn reflects on:Why he stepped into the steward roleThe importance of data, fairness, and collective rightsLessons from global workplacesEncouraging colleagues to get involved in whatever way they canYouTube Code for Music clearance: NPXY0YQVYZIJHMOW

In this episode of CAAT Tales, we introduce a brand‑new feature: Belonging at the Kitchen Table. Host Julie White kicks things off with a rapid‑fire chat with Lisa Macdonald, one of Local 417’s first part‑time/sessional stewards.Then, Ekta Singh sits down with Dr. Sephora Kerekou to explore culture, identity, teaching, and the meaning of Black History Month through the lens of resilience and belonging.We wrap with a Member Spotlight featuring Stacey Airhart and her daughter Aspen, who share their family’s five‑year journey with the 1000 Hours Outside initiative—and how outdoor time builds connection, wellbeing, and joy. This episode closes with a deeper dive into personal leave in our Is it a Gripe or a Grievance segment.Episode Chapters:00:00 — Welcome to CAAT Tales Julie opens the episode and previews our three features: Get to Know Your LEC, Belonging at the Kitchen Table, and our Member Spotlight.00:28 — Get to Know Your LEC: Lisa Rapid‑fire questions with Lisa, one of Local 417’s first part‑time sessional stewards. Shoes, storytelling, collectivist values, and why she stepped into union leadership.17:21 — Belonging at the Kitchen Table: Dr. Sephora Kerekou Hosted by Ekta Singh. A conversation about culture, identity, teaching, military service, entrepreneurship, and the meaning of Black History Month.39:46 — Member Spotlight: Stacey & Aspen on 1000 Hours Outside A joyful look at outdoor family life, wellbeing, and building habits of movement and connection—featuring Aspen’s favourite winter adventures.49:57 — Closing Reflections Julie wraps the episode with gratitude and a look ahead.Want to sign your union card? Visit slcfaculty.caClick here for more about the 1000 Hours Outside .YouTube Code for Music clearance: NPXY0YQVYZIJHMOWPixaby World African Music 473985

This week on CAAT Tales, we bring you an episode that balances deep personal reflections with essential union insights. We sit down with Christine Tong, a statistics and psychology professor who shares her "zigzag" journey from being a 15-year-old immigrant to becoming an expert in data analytics. Christine discusses how her background in evidence-based research is helping Local 417 build more efficient systems for monitoring faculty workloads.We also dive into a crucial Is it a Gripe or a Grievance segment with Gillian to discuss SWF violations and overtime pay. Finally, we travel to the East Coast for a member spotlight with Denise Nielsen, who reflects on her sabbatical research into AI, communications, and the importance of finding authenticity in a digital world.Key Segments & Timestamps[01:41] Rapid Fire: Getting to Know Christine TongKingston Eats: Why Northern Chinese BBQ is the go-to spot for authentic flavor.Simple Joys: Finding peace in pet cuddles.Life Lessons: The power of telling your younger self that "it’s okay to fail."Cultural Traditions: The "Evil Monkey Spirit" and the New Year's Eve drive to clear out negative "juju."[06:27] The Zigzag Path to St. Lawrence CollegeChristine details her non-linear career path, including degrees in Biochemistry, Psychology, and Education.The transition from a Research Associate at the Cancer Care Institute to teaching at SLC.The Reward of the International Stream: Overcoming the "double language" barrier (English and Statistics) to guide international students through their new lives in Canada.[15:29] Data & The Union: Making Systems SmarterWhy Christine joined the LECEfficiency Project: Using AI and coding to automate the screening of 2,000+ timetables to flag workload violations, saving stewards hours of manual labor.[23:45] Is it a Gripe or a Grievance: SWFs and OvertimeThe Issue: What happens when you put in extra time due to program staffing needs?The Advice: Ensuring you receive proper compensation for "super overtime" (47+ hours) and when to demand a revised SWF.[25:38] Member Spotlight: Denise Nielsen’s SabbaticalRoots & Traditions: Connecting with Irish/Celtic traditions like Imbolc to find grounding.The "Chip Butty": A controversial comfort food involving French fries and buttered bread.Sabbatical Research: Developing advanced communication modules for graduates, focusing on conflict resolution and interpersonal skills.[41:52] Communications in the Age of AIThe Shift in Focus: How student engagement with long-form reading is changing and the need for dynamic content.Authenticity is King: Why trust and "human-ness" are becoming the most important parts of professional communication as AI floods the market.The Power of Step-Back: Why taking a sabbatical is essential for preventing burnout and reassessing your teaching philosophy.Notable Quotes"I took a crazy zigzag path to get here. You get to where you need to be eventually, and the journey is as much part of the experience as the destination." — Christine Tong"Nobody’s on top of this [AI] stuff. We have to give ourselves the grace to just recognize that we’re in the middle of a hugely transformative time in education." — Denise NielsenYouTube Code for Music clearance: NPXY0YQVYZIJHMOW

This episode features Jay Krawchuk, electrical trades instructor and Local 417 steward, whose 40‑year career spans Manitoba, Alberta, BC, Nova Scotia, and Ontario. Jay shares how regional cultures shape the trades, why labour movements matter more than ever, and how political decisions continue to impact apprenticeship, safety, and job quality.He reflects on his path from prairie farm kid to educator, the future of trades in an AI world, and what he’s learned from five different unions across Canada. Jay also talks about wrapping up his time at SLC and heading back to Victoria—possibly returning to the classroom once again.Plus: The 4‑1‑1 on the 4‑1‑7 with quick union updates, andIs It a Gripe or a Grievance? where we unpack this week’s workplace frustrations.00:00 — Welcome & Episode Setup02:45 — From Prairie Roots to the Electrical Trade07:30 — Teaching Across Canada13:10 — How Trades Are Valued Across Provinces18:40 — Politics, De‑Skilling & Protecting the Trade22:00 — AI, Intuition & the Future of Skilled Trades24:30 — Stewardship, Solidarity & Union Life29:40 — What’s Next: Retirement & Returning to BC32:00 — Is it a Gripe or a Grievance?35:00 — The 4-1-1 on the 4-1-7Apply to become a Part-Time Organizer - https://opseu.org/news/apply-to-be-a-part-time-sessional-college-faculty-member-organizer/302855/Learn more about Local 417 at slcfaculty.caYouTube Code for Music clearance: NPXY0YQVYZIJHMOW

In this episode, We check in with Local 417’s Acting Treasurer Carla Kingston and then turn the microphone over to Local 418 President Amanda Shaw, who led our Support Staff through one of the most challenging years in their history.Carla, whose experience resulted in the much-heralded Kingston Decision arbitration award, shares her personal journey from part-time teaching to a full-time role, emphasizing the significance of mentorship and advocacy within the union framework.Then we’ll discuss the evolving landscape of education and labor relations, particularly in the context of budget cuts and privatization. Amanda will delve into the impact of these changes on faculty and support staff, highlighting ongoing challenges and the importance of union support.The conversation also touches on the future of education, the role of technology, and the necessity of building strong relationships among staff to navigate these turbulent times.The discussion further explores the implications of the recent support staff strike and negotiations, with Amanda highlighting the need for solidarity among faculty and support staff. She reflects on the importance of understanding collective agreements and the role of stewards in advocating for members' rights. Chapters00:59 Rapid fire with Carla Kingston04:17 Teaching was a Dream07:33 Delivering Excellence in Supply Chain Management12:48 The Grievance Behind the "Kingston Award"20:51 Getting Through the Tough Times to Get To the Good Times23:43 Is it a Gripe or a Grievance?25:50 Local 418 President Amanda Shaw Joins the Podcast29:08 Layoffs Started in October 202436:13 How Can Members of 417 Help 418?38:18 Impact on the Changing Nature of Work42:27 All Staff in Colleges Are Now OPSEU Links & Resources:• Visit us: slcfaculty.ca• Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcastsMusic clearance: NPXY0YQVYZIJHMOW

We tee up an episode full of union updates, opportunities to get involved, and a spotlight on one of Local 417’s most dedicated leaders - Tabatha Rutledge00:28 – Christina Decarie on the January 29 GMMDelegate and observer selection for ConventionWhy Convention and Regional Meetings are genuinely exciting (yes, really)Virtual vs. in‑person participationTravel, childcare, and accessibility supportsWhy these events build real solidarity across Ontario10:25 – Bylaw AmendmentsA quick breakdown of what it means to be a composite local and why the bylaws need updating to reflect equitable representation for all faculty groups.12:38 – How to Join the GMMWhere to find the Zoom link (Friday Digest) and how to put your name forward if you can’t attend live.13:21 – The 4‑1‑1 on the 4‑1‑7: Equity Executive Board ElectionsJulie explains:The seven equity-deserving groupsWho can run (hint: you don’t need to be a steward)Nomination deadline: January 26Voter registration deadline: February 4Electronic voting: February 5–1016:36 – Get to Know Your LEC: VP Tabatha RutledgeA warm, funny, and insightful conversation covering:Rapid‑fire questions (Shania Twain, cannonballs, Fraggle Rock)Her 25‑year teaching journeyWhy she still nurses on weekendsThe joy of watching students growHow she became the longest‑serving member of the LECHer role in membership engagement and provincial work30:18 – Provincial AdvocacyTabatha shares her involvement in:The Bargaining Advisory CommitteeSave Our CollegesRegional and provincial solidarity efforts44:00 – Gripe or GrievanceWe close the episode with this week’s question about a gripe or grievance. And it is one that may warm the hearts (or tempers) of program coordinators!

In this episode of CAAT Tales, the official podcast of SLC Faculty Local 417, we explore the personal and professional lives of our union members. From a rapid-fire session with our Communications Officer to a deep dive into the transformative power of belonging in higher education, this episode highlights the human connections that drive our local forward.Segment 1: Getting to Know Christina ChryslerCommunications Officer Christina Chrysler joins the show for a "rapid-fire" introduction and a discussion on her dual roles as an artist and a union leader.• Life as an Artist-Educator: Outside of teaching, Christina is an installation artist and oil painter who lives on 37 acres with alpacas, fainting goats, and chickens.• The Cyclical Nature of Change: Reflecting on 13 years at the college, she observes that many "new" ideas are actually old ways of operating, noting that underfunding has occasionally forced the institution to stray from its core values.• Union Leadership & Strategy: Christina details the strategic nature of her role, including preparing for bargaining cycles (the next collective agreement expires in 2027) and using social media to maintain relationships in an increasingly remote work environment.Segment 2: Is it a Gripe or a Grievance? – Moving ExpensesThis segment clarifies member rights regarding campus transfers.• Key Reference: Under Article 27.15, up to $1,000 may be allocated for moving expenses.Segment 3: Member Spotlight – The Research of Belonging with OasisMuhammad Owais Aziz (Oasis) discusses his PhD research on how educators experience belonging.• A Unique Path to SLC: Formerly a healthcare professional, Owais moved to Canada to prioritize family time and joined SLC after a spontaneous meeting with the dean where he requested a "free coffee" in exchange for his resume.• Dynamic Belonging: Owais defines belonging not as a static state, but as a dynamic construct that fluctuates based on daily interactions.• The Student Connection: A major finding of his research is that students profoundly shape a faculty member's sense of belonging.• Micro-Interactions, Macro Impact: Owais emphasizes that small acts of kindness, like knocking on a colleague's door to check in or offering a smile, are essential for building a healthy organizational culture.Segment 4: The 411 on the 417 – Union Updates• Hold the Date: The General Membership Meeting (GMM) is scheduled for January 29th from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. via Zoom.• Bylaw Amendment: The meeting will address a motion to amend operational bylaws to reflect the local's status as a composite local.Stay Connected:• Website: slcfaculty.ca• Newsletter: Read the December edition of CAAT Tales for full details on upcoming motions Chapters01:35 Rapid fire with Christina Chrysler04:54 Journey into Teaching and Lifelong Learning07:27 Watching Change Happen at the College13:52 Passions Outside of Teaching14:37 Getting Involved with the LEC27:23 Is it a Gripe or a Grievance?28:35 Member Spotlight - Introducing Owais Aziz36:29 Community and Belonging in Cornwall45:19 Defining Belonging and Its Importance49:31 Micro-Interactions and Their Impact on Belonging51:31 The Impact of Colleagues and Supervisors on Belonging53:26 Student Influence on Faculty Belonging57:15 The Role of Mentorship in Student Success Music clearance: NPXY0YQVYZIJHMOW

🎧 Festivities, Faculty, and a Few Grievances  This holiday special brings together warm wishes from stewards, a thoughtful chat on inclusivity, and a playful airing of grievances (Seinfeld-style). We celebrate retiring steward Dan Somers, shine a light on Bill 33’s impact on post-secondary education, and wrap it all in union spirit. Tune in for cheer, reflection, and a call to action—because faculty voices matter all year long.And for those who love a good cameo - OPSEU/SEFPO President JP Hornick's voice is featured!01:29 Holiday wishes from the Local 417 Executive Committee03:38 Tips on being inclusive over the holiday break with Ekta Singh14:03 Airing of Grievances with Gillian Axten22:50 Feature interview - Dan Somer's final Motion to Adjourn from the LEC & Retirement from SLC·       43:04 The Importance of Grievances and Collective Agreements·       44:41 Navigating Investigations: Strategies for Support·       46:18 Career Highlights and Future Aspirations·       47:24 The Evolution of Union Representation·       49:42 Closing Thoughts and Reflections on Retirement52:18 What we need to know about Bill 3354:39 Gripe or grievance: Understanding Professional Development Leave DenialsMusic clearance: NPXY0YQVYZIJHMOWVoice of Frank Costanza (played by the late Jerry Stiller): Seinfeld ep. 166 "The Strike" 18 December 1997

In this episode of CAAT Tales, we sit down with Gillian Axten, the Lead Steward for Local 417 and a self-described person who runs on "chaos" and "copious amounts of coffee". Gillian takes us through her journey from working as a guidance counselor and psychotherapist to becoming a fixture at St. Lawrence College—a career move she jokingly attributes entirely to her mother’s influence.We delve into the "less sexy" but vital backend work of the union. Gillian explains her role as a big-picture strategic planner, detailing her work on the provincial constitution committee and the complex "competitive Sudoku" of scheduling arbitrations. She also shares the story behind the seminal Kingston grievance, a major victory that secured full-time positions across the province, and discusses the strategy behind filing mass grievances to effect change.Whether she is coaching football, teaching mental health resilience to paramedics, or planning her sabbatical, Jillian’s focus remains on the "collective good". She offers candid advice for aspiring stewards and explains why having an "exit strategy" is actually an act of solidarity for younger faculty.In This Episode, We Cover:• The Counselor Who Teaches: How Gillian transitioned from counseling in high schools to teaching mental health and addiction at the college, while maintaining her identity as a counselor first.• Strategic Stewardship: Insight into the role of a Lead Steward, including policy grievances, the constitution committee, and the disability caucus.• Historic Wins: A look back at the "Kingston grievance" that changed the provincial landscape for staffing and the strategy behind the mass filing of 80 grievances in 2017.• The Collective Mindset: Jillian’s philosophy on union work, balancing individual needs with the collective good, and the importance of self-care and exit strategies.• Know Your Rights: A breakdown of teaching contact hours (maximum 18 per week) and the new increase in complimentary functions to 7 hours effective January 1st.Links & Resources:• Visit us: slcfaculty.ca• Subscribe: Wherever you get your podcastsMusic clearance: NPXY0YQVYZIJHMOW

This week we chat with Local 417 President Christina Decarie (1:30) , getting to learn more about her passion for puzzles, how John Anderson made a huge impact on her career and what it's like being the president of the CAAT-A Local. Then Lead Steward Gillian Axten weighs in on something that most of us have experienced in the past in Is It a Gripe or a Grievance? (34:30) This week's Member Spotlight comes with a SPOILER ALERT as Professor Polina Buchan (35:56) talks about her passion project and the recent release of The Awesome True Story of Santa. You can find Polina's book at Bookland in the west end of Kingston, at Novel Idea, or online through Indigo.ca, or Amazon.Finally, The 4-1-1 on the 4-1-7 (48:15) talks about how Local 417 now represents ALL faculty and counsellors at SLC.

With program reductions, enrolment challenges and more stealing our attention, worry spreads faster than facts. In this first episode of CAAT Tales, we talk with Communications Officer Christina Chrysler about why this podcast was launched and what SLC Faculty Local 417 members can expect as Ontario’s college crisis unfolds - and the impacts are felt at St. Lawrence College. Local 417 President Christina Decarie, Vice President Tabatha Rutledge, and Lead Steward Gillian Axten also sit down to unpack the collective agreement, clear up misconceptions, and share how we can face the months ahead together.Music license: NPXY0YQVYZIJHMOW