Paul talks with Dr. Harriet Fraad—activist, psychotherapist and author—about the much under-discussed connection between capitalism and loneliness. Though in recent years there has been a great deal of work within mainstream media, such as popular magazines and news articles, on the “loneliness epidemic”—the pervasive sense of our being disconnected from one another and the emotionally difficulty of this—seldom does such media implicate larger political economic structures, as producing the epidemic itself. In contrast Dr. Fraad invites us to look at how capitalism, particularly with a focus on demoralizing forms of wage labour, keeps us isolated and apart. In turn, community is undermined and people do not feel cared about. Dr. Fraad and Paul, on a positive note, explore how this can be overcome when we—together—challenge capitalism and work to create a cooperative, harmonious and ultimately healthier society.  Learn more about Dr. Fraad here, as well as watch her insightful Democracy At Work videos (part of the “Capitalism Hits Home” series) here.  *** CREDITS Producer - Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - Peter Restivo  Music - Paul Salvatori

Paul talks with Dr. Harriet Fraad—activist, psychotherapist and author—about the much under-discussed connection between capitalism and loneliness. Though in recent years there has been a great deal of work within mainstream media, such as popular magazines and news articles, on the “loneliness epidemic”—the pervasive sense of our being disconnected from one another and the emotionally difficulty of this—seldom does such media implicate larger political economic structures, as producing the epidemic itself. In contrast Dr. Fraad invites us to look at how capitalism, particularly with a focus on demoralizing forms of wage labour, keeps us isolated and apart. In turn, community is undermined and people do not feel cared about. Dr. Fraad and Paul, on a positive note, explore how this can be overcome when we—together—challenge capitalism and work to create a cooperative, harmonious and ultimately healthier society.  Learn more about Dr. Fraad <a href="https://www.harrietfraad.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>, as well as watch her insightful Democracy At Work videos (part of the “Capitalism Hits Home” series) <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/democracyatwrk/videos" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>.  *** CREDITS Producer - Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - Peter Restivo  Music - Paul Salvatori

Episode #128 - Dr. Harriet Fraad - Capitalism and Loneliness

Michael Lynk

Paul talks with Michael Lynk, law professor and former United Nations Special Rapporteur (2016 – 2022) on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian Territories occupied since 1967. Michael, citing formative experiences in his own life, shares how he first became involved in issues of Palestinian justice, the way--using legal and human rights frameworks as Rapporteur--he was able to determine Israel is committing the crime of apartheid against the Palestinian people and what is incumbent on us, fellow members of the international community, to challenge and overturn that. Learn more about Michael here. *** CREDITS Producer - Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - Peter Bull Music - Paul Salvatori

Paul talks with Michael Lynk, law professor and former United Nations Special Rapporteur (2016 – 2022) on the situation of human rights in the Palestinian Territories occupied since 1967. Michael, citing formative experiences in his own life, shares how he first became involved in issues of Palestinian justice, the way--using legal and human rights frameworks as Rapporteur--he was able to determine Israel is committing the crime of apartheid against the Palestinian people and what is incumbent on us, fellow members of the international community, to challenge and overturn that. Learn more about Michael <a href="https://law.uwo.ca/about_us/faculty/michael_lynk.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>. *** CREDITS Producer - Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - <a href="https://www.peterbullmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peter Bull</a> Music - Paul Salvatori

Palestine in Perspective (Episode 6): In Conversation with Michael Lynk

Rebecca Stein

Paul talks with Duke University professor and cultural anthropologist, Rebecca Stein, about her insightful work on the ways in which activists are using social and digital media to challenge, resist and expose the crimes of the Israeli state against Palestinians, as well as the challenges they face from the state itself—committed to distorting or manipulating actual documentary footage—to deny the crimes themselves. As Rebecca reveals, the state's military and often with the support of the larger Israeli society ultimately do so to further achieve violent colonial and imperialistic ends, the unsufferable costs of which are endured by Palestinians daily.  This is the fourth episode of The Dark Room's "Palestine in Perspective" series, which from here on in (with possible exceptions) be available in audio format only.  Learn more about Professor Stein here, including her most recent book Screen Shots: State Violence on Camera in Israel and Palestine. *** CREDITS Producer - Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - Peter Bull Music - Paul Salvatori

Paul talks with Duke University professor and cultural anthropologist, Rebecca Stein, about her insightful work on the ways in which activists are using social and digital media to challenge, resist and expose the crimes of the Israeli state against Palestinians, as well as the challenges they face from the state itself—committed to distorting or manipulating actual documentary footage—to deny the crimes themselves. As Rebecca reveals, the state's military and often with the support of the larger Israeli society ultimately do so to further achieve violent colonial and imperialistic ends, the unsufferable costs of which are endured by Palestinians daily.  This is the fourth episode of The Dark Room's "Palestine in Perspective" series, which from here on in (with possible exceptions) be available in audio format only.  Learn more about Professor Stein <a href="http://www.rebeccalstein.com/about-1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>, including her most recent book Screen Shots: State Violence on Camera in Israel and Palestine. *** CREDITS Producer - Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - <a href="https://www.peterbullmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peter Bull</a> Music - Paul Salvatori

Palestine in Perspective (Episode 5): In Conversation with Rebecca Stein

Henry Giroux

Paul talks to well-known political educator, author and writer, Henry Giroux, about the value of radical education and how it empowers learners to critique, resist and challenge various forms of oppression—from racism and poverty to classism and sexism. For Henry this involves rejecting conventional educational models, often found in public education, that primarily train or condition students to “succeed” in the neoliberal marketplace. Instead Henry offers insight into how education, in the spirit of Paolo Freire’s (a mentor to and seminal influence on Henry) Pedagogy of the Oppressed, can be much more profound. Through dialogue that interrogates the structures under which they live, it is a formidable means by which students can reimagine society—grounded in care and mutuality rather than crude individualism and competition—while acting collectively to realize it.  Learn more about Henry, including access to his work here. *** CREDITS Producer - Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - Peter Bull Music - Paul Salvatori

Paul talks to well-known political educator, author and writer, Henry Giroux, about the value of radical education and how it empowers learners to critique, resist and challenge various forms of oppression—from racism and poverty to classism and sexism. For Henry this involves rejecting conventional educational models, often found in public education, that primarily train or condition students to “succeed” in the neoliberal marketplace. Instead Henry offers insight into how education, in the spirit of Paolo Freire’s (a mentor to and seminal influence on Henry) Pedagogy of the Oppressed, can be much more profound. Through dialogue that interrogates the structures under which they live, it is a formidable means by which students can reimagine society—grounded in care and mutuality rather than crude individualism and competition—while acting collectively to realize it.  Learn more about Henry, including access to his work <a href="https://www.henryagiroux.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>. *** CREDITS Producer - Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - <a href="https://www.peterbullmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peter Bull</a> Music - Paul Salvatori

Episode #127 - Henry Giroux - Fighting Oppression through Education

Paul talks with Toronto-based author and seasoned entrepreneur, Rose Catalano, about her journey into and through non-fiction writing. Immigrating from Italy at a young age, Rose shares what it was like growing up in Toronto while having to contend unfair gender expectations against women, how she overcame them (in significant part with guidance and encouragement from her grandmother) and, finally, went on to become a successful business owner—where she, again, would have to battle pervasive sexism in a field not welcoming to women. Much of what has allowed Rose to surmount difficult life challenges is a strong set of values, allowing her to remain courageous and resilient. She explores this further in her latest book, It’s Not My Fault: Reclaiming Leadership and Values, where she invites readers to become a socially responsible and positive force for change.   Learn more about Rose and purchase her books here. *** CREDITS Producer – Dr. Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host – Dr. Paul Salvatori Music – “Down Days” (David Renda)

Paul talks with Toronto-based author and seasoned entrepreneur, Rose Catalano, about her journey into and through non-fiction writing. Immigrating from Italy at a young age, Rose shares what it was like growing up in Toronto while having to contend unfair gender expectations against women, how she overcame them (in significant part with guidance and encouragement from her grandmother) and, finally, went on to become a successful business owner—where she, again, would have to battle pervasive sexism in a field not welcoming to women. Much of what has allowed Rose to surmount difficult life challenges is a strong set of values, allowing her to remain courageous and resilient. She explores this further in her latest book, It’s Not My Fault: Reclaiming Leadership and Values, where she invites readers to become a socially responsible and positive force for change.   Learn more about Rose and purchase her books <a href="https://www.rosecatalano.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>. *** CREDITS Producer – Dr. Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host – Dr. Paul Salvatori Music – “Down Days” (David Renda)

Episode #126 - Rose Catalano - Strength and Values for Leadership

David Miller

Paul talks with UK scholar, David Miller, about recently losing his position University of Bristol—as a professor of political sociology—for being critical of the Israeli state. Connecting this to his work, David shares how a powerful lobby, comprised of various groups and working closely with the, have been successful in framing such criticism as “anti-Semitism.” In fact, this has been an unfair charge leveled against him by the lobby and played a significant role in his being fired. Finally, Miller discusses how the lobby purposely obscures or directs attention away from Israel’s state-sanctioned racism, reflected in its oppressive laws and violence against Palestinians, while falsely presenting the state—through public relations and other effective techniques—as a democracy. Follow David on Twitter and view the petition to help reinstate him at the University of Bristol here.  You may also watch the video version of this episode either on YouTube or Facebook.  

Paul talks with UK scholar, David Miller, about <a href="https://mondoweiss.net/2021/10/after-success-against-corbyn-israel-lobby-ousts-uk-scholar/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">recently losing his position University of Bristol</a>—as a professor of political sociology—for being critical of the Israeli state. Connecting this to his work, David shares how a powerful lobby, comprised of various groups and working closely with the, have been successful in framing such criticism as “anti-Semitism.” In fact, this has been an unfair charge leveled against him by the lobby and played a significant role in his being fired. Finally, Miller discusses how the lobby purposely obscures or directs attention away from Israel’s state-sanctioned racism, reflected in its oppressive laws and violence against Palestinians, while falsely presenting the state—through public relations and other effective techniques—as a democracy. Follow David on <a href="https://twitter.com/tracking_power" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and view the petition to help reinstate him at the University of Bristol <a href="https://www.change.org/p/bristol-university-give-professor-david-miller-his-job-back" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>.  You may also watch the video version of this episode either on <a href="https://youtu.be/mp4JStdMu0A" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube</a> or Facebook.

Palestine in Perspective (Episode 4): In Conversation with David Miller

Gideon Levy

Paul talks with well-known, Gideon Levy, about his courageous (and award-winning) work--exposing the criminal violence of the Israeli state against the Palestinian people--the extent to which efforts exist to undermine this within Israeli civil society itself and how the international community can help end the illegal Israeli occupation of Palestine. Watch the video of the full discussion, of which this episode is the audio, on YouTube. Follow and receive updates on Gideon’s journalism through his Haaretz page, where he regularly publishes insightful articles on the plight of the Palestinian people.

Paul talks with well-known, Gideon Levy, about his courageous (and award-winning) work--exposing the criminal violence of the Israeli state against the Palestinian people--the extent to which efforts exist to undermine this within Israeli civil society itself and how the international community can help end the illegal Israeli occupation of Palestine. Watch the video of the full discussion, of which this episode is the audio, on <a href="https://youtu.be/rCJXZo1FEro" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">YouTube</a>. Follow and receive updates on Gideon’s journalism through his <a href="https://www.haaretz.com/misc/writers/WRITER-1.4968119" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Haaretz</a> page, where he regularly publishes insightful articles on the plight of the Palestinian people.

Palestine in Perspective (Episode 3): In Conversation with Gideon Levy

Richard Falk

Paul talks with Richard Falk, Professor of International Law and Practice, Emeritus (Princeton University) and prolific human rights author, about his experience as former United Nations Special Rapporteur on "the situation of human rights in the Palestinian territories occupied since 1967”, the parallels between former South African and current Israel apartheid—oppressing the Palestinian people—and Israel’s attempt to undermine the legitimacy of the upcoming (September 2021)and fourth UN anti-racism conference in New York City.   Learn more about Richard at richardfalk.org and his recently published memoir discussed in the episode, Public Intellectual: The Life of a Citizen Pilgrim, here. Finally, video of the discussion, for which this episode is the audio can be seen here.

Paul talks with Richard Falk, Professor of International Law and Practice, Emeritus (Princeton University) and prolific human rights author, about his experience as former <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_Special_Rapporteur" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">United Nations Special Rapporteur</a> on "the situation of human rights in the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palestinian_territories" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Palestinian territories</a> occupied since 1967”, the parallels between former South African and current Israel apartheid—oppressing the Palestinian people—and Israel’s attempt to undermine the legitimacy of the upcoming (September 2021)and fourth UN anti-racism conference in New York City.   Learn more about Richard at <a href="richardfalk.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">richardfalk.org</a> and his recently published memoir discussed in the episode, Public Intellectual: The Life of a Citizen Pilgrim, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Public-Intellectual-Life-Citizen-Pilgrim/dp/1949762327/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>. Finally, video of the discussion, for which this episode is the audio can be seen <a href="https://youtu.be/M4bvyBSp1z8" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>.

Palestine in Perspective (Episode 2): In Conversation with Richard Falk

This is the audio of the recent video interview, sharing the title of this podcast episode.  In the interview, Paul speaks with renowned Israeli historian and activist, Ilan Pappe, on the history of Palestine, the ongoing attempt by Israel to ethnically cleanse the Palestinian people (within and outside the illegally occupied Palestinian territories by the state) and, finally, how Israel has been relatively successful in avoiding prosecution for crimes against humanity, including major public relations campaigns—branding it as “progressive” and “democratic.” Ilan sheds light on how such branding is now being undermined by independent and social media, exposing the darker and inhumane side of Israel, while also galvanizing international support for the Palestinian struggle for justice. Learn more about Ilan Pappe here. 

This is the audio of the recent <a href="https://youtu.be/lAnXhcr16iU" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">video interview</a>, sharing the title of this podcast episode.  In the interview, Paul speaks with renowned Israeli historian and activist, Ilan Pappe, on the history of Palestine, the ongoing attempt by Israel to ethnically cleanse the Palestinian people (within and outside the illegally occupied Palestinian territories by the state) and, finally, how Israel has been relatively successful in avoiding prosecution for crimes against humanity, including major public relations campaigns—branding it as “progressive” and “democratic.” Ilan sheds light on how such branding is now being undermined by independent and social media, exposing the darker and inhumane side of Israel, while also galvanizing international support for the Palestinian struggle for justice. Learn more about Ilan Pappe <a href="https://socialsciences.exeter.ac.uk/iais/staff/pappe/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>.

Palestine in Perspective: In Conversation with Ilan Pappe

Dwight Longenecker

Paul talks with American writer, Catholic priest and thinker, Fr. Dwight Longenecker, about evil, pride and selfishness. Reflecting ideas in his recent book, Immortal Combat: Confronting the Heart of Darkness, Fr. Dwight elucidates the dark side of our humanity, providing difficult though important insight into how dishonesty underlies the three and the dangerous consequences, for both ourselves and others, where we fail to confront it. Being a genuinely good person, as Fr. Dwight shows, is much harder than simply appearing to say and do the right things, even where that might gain us praise from others and allow us to “get ahead” in the world. Learn more about Fr. Dwight here.    *** CREDITS Producer - Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - Peter Bull Music - Paul Salvatori

Paul talks with American writer, Catholic priest and thinker, Fr. Dwight Longenecker, about evil, pride and selfishness. Reflecting ideas in his recent book, <a href="https://www.sophiainstitute.com/products/item/immortal-combat" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Immortal Combat: Confronting the Heart of Darkness</a>, Fr. Dwight elucidates the dark side of our humanity, providing difficult though important insight into how dishonesty underlies the three and the dangerous consequences, for both ourselves and others, where we fail to confront it. Being a genuinely good person, as Fr. Dwight shows, is much harder than simply appearing to say and do the right things, even where that might gain us praise from others and allow us to “get ahead” in the world. Learn more about Fr. Dwight <a href="https://dwightlongenecker.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>.    *** CREDITS Producer - Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - <a href="https://www.peterbullmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peter Bull</a> Music - Paul Salvatori

Episode #125 - Fr. Dwight Longenecker - Evil in Us

Insightful discussions and interviews on controversial topics of society and culture, human rights, social justice and education. The Dark Room is produced and hosted by Dr. Paul Salvatori.

Always funny to hear dense people&#39;s opinions on smart people

Hilarious

The Dark Room

Ryan Oats

Centuries ago the Earth was believed to be flat. In fact, it was heresy to think otherwise. Throughout years of expedition and exploration we have since deemed the truth to be that there is a curvature to the planet which ultimately renders it spherical. This, along with the various imagery provided by space agencies such as NASA have conjured an unshakable notion that the Earth is indeed round. But what if the information we have all come to accept as truth was not entirely so? What if the world was indeed flat and the powers that be have merely led us to believe falsified information? According to “flat earth vegan” Ryan Oats, this is exactly what has been going on.  Jordan Randall speaks with Ryan Oats, a Flat Earth Theory activist, a vegan and musician. Citing Eric Dubay as one of his main sources, Oats describes the “flat earth” as just one of the many lies being perpetuated by world leaders. Find out more about Eric Dubay here: http://www.ericdubay.com/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwgGxgY3Wff8dnz2fv65fHw And be sure to check out Ryan Oats’ YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/user/ChromaKeyCriminals

Centuries ago the Earth was believed to be flat. In fact, it was heresy to think otherwise. Throughout years of expedition and exploration we have since deemed the truth to be that there is a curvature to the planet which ultimately renders it spherical. This, along with the various imagery provided by space agencies such as NASA have conjured an unshakable notion that the Earth is indeed round. But what if the information we have all come to accept as truth was not entirely so? What if the world was indeed flat and the powers that be have merely led us to believe falsified information? According to “flat earth vegan” Ryan Oats, this is exactly what has been going on. Jordan Randall speaks with Ryan Oats, a Flat Earth Theory activist, a vegan and <a href="https://enveloper.bandcamp.com/releases" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">musician</a>. Citing Eric Dubay as one of his main sources, Oats describes the “flat earth” as just one of the many lies being perpetuated by world leaders. Find out more about Eric Dubay here: <a href="http://www.ericdubay.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.ericdubay.com/</a> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwgGxgY3Wff8dnz2fv65fHw" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwgGxgY3Wff8dnz2fv65fHw</a> And be sure to check out Ryan Oats’ YouTube channel here: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/ChromaKeyCriminals" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/user/ChromaKeyCriminals</a>

Episode #107 - Flat Earth Vegan: Ryan Oats

Brian Goldman

Most of us appreciate receiving kindness. After all, it reminds us we matter. But actually showing kindness requires going beyond ourselves and that can be difficult. Dr. Paul Salvatori talks to Dr. Brian Goldman, emergency room physician and radio host, about his recent book, The Power of Kindness: Why Empathy Is Essential in Everyday Life, and what—in the process of writing that book—he discovered it takes to be kind in an increasingly impersonal world. As Dr. Goldman illuminates, stress and other difficult pressures we face therein make it tempting not to be kind, such that we easily become selfish and fail, as it were, to put ourselves in the shoes of others. Nonetheless, the potential or capacity for kindness is inherent in us all and when we successfully manage to exercise it, we, and the world around us, is ultimately better for it. Learn more about Dr. Brian Goldman, including his own podcast—White Coat, Black Art—on the hidden side of hospital life, here. *** CREDITS Producer - Dr. Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Dr. Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - Peter Bull Music - Dr. Paul Salvatori

Most of us appreciate receiving kindness. After all, it reminds us we matter. But actually showing kindness requires going beyond ourselves and that can be difficult. Dr. Paul Salvatori talks to Dr. Brian Goldman, emergency room physician and radio host, about his recent book, The Power of Kindness: Why Empathy Is Essential in Everyday Life, and what—in the process of writing that book—he discovered it takes to be kind in an increasingly impersonal world. As Dr. Goldman illuminates, stress and other difficult pressures we face therein make it tempting not to be kind, such that we easily become selfish and fail, as it were, to put ourselves in the shoes of others. Nonetheless, the potential or capacity for kindness is inherent in us all and when we successfully manage to exercise it, we, and the world around us, is ultimately better for it. Learn more about Dr. Brian Goldman, including his own podcast—White Coat, Black Art—on the hidden side of hospital life, <a href="/thedarkroom/episode/doctorbriangoldman.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>. *** CREDITS Producer - Dr. Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Dr. Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - <a href="https://www.peterbullmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peter Bull</a> Music - Dr. Paul Salvatori

Episode #109 - Dr. Brian Goldman 

Dr. Paul Salvatori narrates a conversation between two friends, Kinza Ansari and Hibah Salaria, who attend the same Toronto high school. The pair candidly discuss the challenges they’ve had to face growing-up “brown”, namely South Asian, in Western society and the associated—and often unfair—expectations others have for them in terms of gender, race and family. Their conversation illuminates that, though each of us desires to be unique, “fitting-in” is central to a healthy sense of identity and belongingness. Without it, we don’t feel complete. *** CREDITS Producers - Dr. Paul Salvatori &amp; Kinza Ansari Writer &amp; Host - Dr. Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - Peter Bull Music - Dr. Paul Salvatori

Dr. Paul Salvatori narrates a conversation between two friends, Kinza Ansari and Hibah Salaria, who attend the same Toronto high school. The pair candidly discuss the challenges they’ve had to face growing-up “brown”, namely South Asian, in Western society and the associated—and often unfair—expectations others have for them in terms of gender, race and family. Their conversation illuminates that, though each of us desires to be unique, “fitting-in” is central to a healthy sense of identity and belongingness. Without it, we don’t feel complete. *** CREDITS Producers - Dr. Paul Salvatori &amp; Kinza Ansari Writer &amp; Host - Dr. Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - <a href="https://www.peterbullmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peter Bull</a> Music - Dr. Paul Salvatori

Episode #108 - Brownie Points (Bonus Episode)

Tatum Dooley

Have you been persuaded by an “influencer”? Do you really know? Dr. Paul talks to Toronto-based journalist and art curator, Tatum Dooley, about the rise of influencers, namely popular individuals online selling what appears to be a “natural” or “ordinary” part of their lives, and how they are pairing—through agencies like Toronto’s #paid—to with trendy brands to strategically push their products.    Bearing on the power of images and art, the discussion explores how ethical influencer marketing is and to what extent audiences can make informed choices as to whether to buy from them, thereby having the opportunity to resist the allure of advertising.  Learn more about Tatum here. You can also read her engaging pieces, discussed in this episode, on influencer culture at The Walrus (“We’ll All Be Social Media Sell Outs Soon”) and  Real Life (“Cost of Simplicity”). *** CREDITS Producer - Dr. Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Dr. Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - Peter Bull Music - Dr. Paul Salvatori

Have you been persuaded by an “influencer”? Do you really know? Dr. Paul talks to Toronto-based journalist and art curator, Tatum Dooley, about the rise of influencers, namely popular individuals online selling what appears to be a “natural” or “ordinary” part of their lives, and how they are pairing—through agencies like Toronto’s #paid—to with trendy brands to strategically push their products.    Bearing on the power of images and art, the discussion explores how ethical influencer marketing is and to what extent audiences can make informed choices as to whether to buy from them, thereby having the opportunity to resist the allure of advertising.  Learn more about Tatum <a href="https://tatumdooley.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>. You can also read her engaging pieces, discussed in this episode, on influencer culture at <a href="https://thewalrus.ca/well-all-be-social-media-sellouts-soon/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The Walrus</a> (“We’ll All Be Social Media Sell Outs Soon”) and  <a href="https://reallifemag.com/cost-of-simplicity/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Real Life</a> (“Cost of Simplicity”). *** CREDITS Producer - Dr. Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Dr. Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - <a href="https://www.peterbullmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peter Bull</a> Music - Dr. Paul Salvatori

Episode #120 - Exploring the unsettling rise of "influencer" culture with Tatum Dooley 

As gun violence continues to rise in Toronto, many are divided as to what the “proper” response to ending it should be. For some, it’s a tough-on-crime approach that focuses on legally disciplining, as through incarceration, perpetrators of gun violence. For others, like Rev. Sky Starr, it involves being sensitive and responsive to the needs of communities, especially those directly affected by such violence. In this episode, Dr. Paul Salvatori speaks with Rev. Sky about how she first became involved in compassionate efforts to end gun violence, her continuing work—within and beyond Toronto's Jane and Finch community—to help others heal in its traumatic aftermath and the role spirituality can play in governments better ensuring safe communities while respecting the rights and dignity of all.   Learn more about Rev. Sky and Out of Bounds—the grief and trauma support group of which she’s both founder and executive director—here. Further info on the “Community Interfaith Remembrance” event, hosted by Out of Bounds and discussed by Rev. Sky in this episode, can be accessed there as well.   *** CREDITS Producer - Dr. Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Dr. Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - Peter Bull Music - Dr. Paul Salvatori

As gun violence continues to rise in Toronto, many are divided as to what the “proper” response to ending it should be. For some, it’s a tough-on-crime approach that focuses on legally disciplining, as through incarceration, perpetrators of gun violence. For others, like Rev. Sky Starr, it involves being sensitive and responsive to the needs of communities, especially those directly affected by such violence. In this episode, Dr. Paul Salvatori speaks with Rev. Sky about how she first became involved in compassionate efforts to end gun violence, her continuing work—within and beyond Toronto's Jane and Finch community—to help others heal in its traumatic aftermath and the role spirituality can play in governments better ensuring safe communities while respecting the rights and dignity of all.   Learn more about Rev. Sky and Out of Bounds—the grief and trauma support group of which she’s both founder and executive director—<a href="https://outofboundsjf.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>. Further info on the “Community Interfaith Remembrance” event, hosted by Out of Bounds and discussed by Rev. Sky in this episode, can be accessed there as well.   *** CREDITS Producer - Dr. Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Dr. Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - <a href="https://www.peterbullmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peter Bull</a> Music - Dr. Paul Salvatori

Episode #119 - Anti-Gun Violence Advocate & Therapist - Rev. Sky Starr

Kathleen Wynne

Dr. Paul Salvatori speaks with former Ontario Premier and current provincial Member of Parliament, Kathleen Wynne, about how the progressive and social-minded politician entered politics, the activist outlook and philosophy that has guided her throughout her career and even the place of love in the often combative world of politics. As might be expected given the media attention it’s received, the discussion does not shy away from the controversial Ontario sex-ed curriculum Kathleen introduced while Premier. Shedding new light, Kathleen shares how the curriculum was first developed, how she handles the harsh pushback it still receives and, perhaps most importantly, the essential role it plays in the care and education of young people. Thank you to Wendy Weston, Kathleen’s assistant, for helping coordinate this episode of The Dark Room.   *** CREDITS Producer - Dr. Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Dr. Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - Peter Bull Music - Dr. Paul Salvatori

Dr. Paul Salvatori speaks with former Ontario Premier and current provincial Member of Parliament, Kathleen Wynne, about how the progressive and social-minded politician entered politics, the activist outlook and philosophy that has guided her throughout her career and even the place of love in the often combative world of politics. As might be expected given the media attention it’s received, the discussion does not shy away from the controversial Ontario sex-ed curriculum Kathleen introduced while Premier. Shedding new light, Kathleen shares how the curriculum was first developed, how she handles the harsh pushback it still receives and, perhaps most importantly, the essential role it plays in the care and education of young people. Thank you to Wendy Weston, Kathleen’s assistant, for helping coordinate this episode of The Dark Room.   *** CREDITS Producer - Dr. Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Dr. Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - <a href="https://www.peterbullmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peter Bull</a> Music - Dr. Paul Salvatori

Episode #118 - Former Ontario Premier & Social Justice Advocate - Kathleen Wynne

Cathy Crowe

Live talk and discussion with tireless homeless advocate, educator, writer and recipient of the Order of Canada, Cathy Crowe, about her recently published book, A Knapsack Full of Dreams: Memoirs of a Street Nurse. Hosted at Eastminister United Church (Toronto), Cathy reads from the book—providing a window into her beginnings as a social justice nurse—followed by an intriguing conversation, alongside Anna Willats, on the difficult challenges and rewards fighting homelessness in Canada.   Special thanks to Another Story Bookshop for organizing the event. You can learn more about and purchase Cathy’s book here.   

Live talk and discussion with tireless homeless advocate, educator, writer and recipient of the Order of Canada, Cathy Crowe, about her recently published book, A Knapsack Full of Dreams: Memoirs of a Street Nurse. Hosted at <a href="https://eastendunited.ca/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Eastminister United Church</a> (Toronto), Cathy reads from the book—providing a window into her beginnings as a social justice nurse—followed by an intriguing conversation, alongside Anna Willats, on the difficult challenges and rewards fighting homelessness in Canada.   Special thanks to <a href="https://anotherstory.ca/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Another Story Bookshop</a> for organizing the event. You can learn more about and purchase Cathy’s book <a href="https://books.friesenpress.com/store/title/119734000072503186" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">here</a>.

Book Launch - Cathy Crowe's "A Knapsack Full of Dreams: Memoirs of a Street Nurse" 

Why it's important to understand the role anger, closely associated with pain, plays in fueling gun and other forms of violence, as well as the perpetrator's perspective--without endorsing or promoting it. Find "Sins of the Father: How Abuse at Home Led Me into the Criminal Underworld", Vito's story mentioned in the cast, here: https://bit.ly/2KFIvEf 

Why it's important to understand the role anger, closely associated with pain, plays in fueling gun and other forms of violence, as well as the perpetrator's perspective--without endorsing or promoting it. Find "Sins of the Father: How Abuse at Home Led Me into the Criminal Underworld", Vito's story mentioned in the cast, here: <a href="https://bit.ly/2KFIvEf" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/2KFIvEf</a>

The Dark Room Unscripted #5 - Anger: The Pain Behind Gun Violence Pt. 2

Carlo Polidoro Lopez

As the well-known proverb goes, “one man’s art is another one’s treasure”. This may aptly be applied to Montreal-based artist, Carlo Polidoro Lopez, whose daring work is literally made up with garbage, also characterizing its beauty and originality.  Dr. Paul talks with Carlo, alongside his son, Alex, about his work and how it began in adult life rather than as a a “wonder child”. Defying traditional Western aesthetics, Carlo’s non-linear work—blending a smorgasbord of colour and texture—invites the viewer to rethink what it means to be creative. For Carlo this involves drawing from both his personal and collective past, as a multiethnic Canadian, while giving form to raw thoughts and feelings as they occur to him in the very process of making art.   View Carlo’s most recent work on Instagram. You can also learn more about Carlo on his website.   *** CREDITS Producer - Dr. Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Dr. Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - Peter Bull Music - Dr. Paul Salvatori

As the well-known proverb goes, “one man’s art is another one’s treasure”. This may aptly be applied to Montreal-based artist, Carlo Polidoro Lopez, whose daring work is literally made up with garbage, also characterizing its beauty and originality.  Dr. Paul talks with Carlo, alongside his son, Alex, about his work and how it began in adult life rather than as a a “wonder child”. Defying traditional Western aesthetics, Carlo’s non-linear work—blending a smorgasbord of colour and texture—invites the viewer to rethink what it means to be creative. For Carlo this involves drawing from both his personal and collective past, as a multiethnic Canadian, while giving form to raw thoughts and feelings as they occur to him in the very process of making art.   View Carlo’s most recent work on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/po_li_do_ro/?hl=en" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. You can also learn more about Carlo on his <a href="https://www.carlopolidorolopez.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a>.   *** CREDITS Producer - Dr. Paul Salvatori Writer &amp; Host - Dr. Paul Salvatori Sound Editor - <a href="https://www.peterbullmusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Peter Bull</a> Music - Dr. Paul Salvatori

Episode #117 - Mixed-Media Artist - Carlo Polidoro Lopez

Recently, some have suggested a pill could be the solution to the "loneliness epidemic". Dr. Paul instead entertains how altruistic love, namely putting others before ourselves, might be the healthier and better solution. It might also prevent tragedies like the recent death of Carson Cremini, in British Columbia, from happening too. 

Recently, some have suggested a pill could be the solution to the "loneliness epidemic". Dr. Paul instead entertains how altruistic love, namely putting others before ourselves, might be the healthier and better solution. It might also prevent tragedies like the recent death of Carson Cremini, in British Columbia, from happening too.

The Dark Room Unscripted #4 - Loving Our Way out of Loneliness

A recent story about why it's important to be honest in today's freelance or "gig" economy not only to be ethical in business but promote a more trusting, socially cohesive world. 

A recent story about why it's important to be honest in today's freelance or "gig" economy not only to be ethical in business but promote a more trusting, socially cohesive world.

The Dark Room Unscripted #3 - Be Honest

Why young men become violent when they feel they don't matter and how healthy bonding can prevent that, as well as what we--as a society--can do to be part of that patient and caring process. 

Why young men become violent when they feel they don't matter and how healthy bonding can prevent that, as well as what we--as a society--can do to be part of that patient and caring process.

The Dark Room Unscripted #2 - Young Men and Violence

In the wake of a high number of shootings in Toronto this past long-weekend, as well as the mass shootings in the United States that took place during the same time, Dr. Paul Salvatori shares a brief word on the need to address the pain behind gun violence in order to better understand and end it, while encouraging respectful face-to-face dialogue (offline) as the means through which this can occur.  This is the first episode of "The Dark Room Unscripted", featuring off-the-cuff reflections by Dr. Paul. In keeping with the topic of this episode, "Too Young for a Funeral"--a recent song by Dr. Paul (under the artist name "Salvatori")--follows the discussion. 

In the wake of a high number of shootings in Toronto this past long-weekend, as well as the mass shootings in the United States that took place during the same time, Dr. Paul Salvatori shares a brief word on the need to address the pain behind gun violence in order to better understand and end it, while encouraging respectful face-to-face dialogue (offline) as the means through which this can occur.  This is the first episode of "The Dark Room Unscripted", featuring off-the-cuff reflections by Dr. Paul. In keeping with the topic of this episode, "Too Young for a Funeral"--a recent song by Dr. Paul (under the artist name "Salvatori")--follows the discussion.

The Dark Room Unscripted - The Pain Behind Gun Violence

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