Bring Back The Porch

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Bring Back The Porch, a podcast about simpler times when folks sat on their porch, and felt a sense of community. Everything was discussed on the porch from life, family, politics, and religion. Hosted by Bernie Leahy, this podcast aims to reignite those conversations, while giving people a chance to share their perspectives. 

  1. 1D AGO

    What Pharmacists Really Do (Most People Have No Idea)

    What does a pharmacist actually do? Many people see the busy professionals behind the counter but don’t fully understand the expertise and training involved. In this episode of Bring Back The Porch, host Brian sits down with local pharmacist Ethan Swanson to explore the evolving role of pharmacists in Canada, the education required to enter the profession, and how pharmacists help patients every day. March is Pharmacy Appreciation Month in Canada, making it the perfect time to highlight the critical role pharmacists play in our healthcare system. Ethan shares insights into the responsibilities of pharmacy assistants, pharmacy technicians, and pharmacists, and explains how pharmacists collaborate with doctors and patients to ensure medications are safe and effective. You’ll also learn how pharmacists in Alberta have one of the broadest scopes of practice in the world, including the ability to prescribe certain medications, administer vaccines, extend prescriptions, and help patients manage their health. Whether you're curious about becoming a pharmacist, want to understand your medications better, or simply want to know how pharmacists support your healthcare team, this conversation provides valuable insights. 00:00 Introduction What does a pharmacist actually do? 01:30 Meet Pharmacist Ethan Swanson 02:05 How Long Does It Take to Become a Pharmacist? 05:10 Do Pharmacists Still Compound Medications? 06:20 Drug Shortages and Compounding Pharmacies 09:20 The Pharmacist’s Clinical Check Explained 10:40 Why You Should Build a Relationship With Your Pharmacist 12:05 Do Pharmacists Ever Disagree With Doctors? 13:20 Alberta Pharmacists Have One of the Broadest Scopes of Practice 16:00 What Happens When You Ask a Pharmacist for Advice 17:20 When a Pharmacist Refers You to a Doctor or Hospital 20:45 Ask Your Pharmacist – Communication Matters 21:40 What Happens If You Run Out of a Prescription? 24:10 How Pharmacists Help Reduce Pressure on Hospitals 25:00 Final Thoughts & Closing 👍 Support the Show Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

    18 min

  2. 2D AGO

    Spaghetti and Meat Sauce for Under $20

    Learn how to prepare a delightful spaghetti and meat sauce for a family of four without breaking the bank. Discover tips and tricks from experienced cooks on saving money while enjoying great meals at home. Have you ever wanted to cook a delicious meal for your family without spending a fortune? Tonight on the Porch, we’ll explore how to make spaghetti and meat sauce for under $20, with insights from seasoned cooks Lynnette and Curtis. They share valuable tips on budgeting, ingredient selection, and cooking techniques that can help you create an amazing dinner without the stress. Ingredients You’ll Need To create this budget-friendly dish, gather the following ingredients: - Pasta (we used Spaghetti) - 2 onions - 1 clove of garlic - Spices (your choice - we used basil, oregano, Italian seasoning, fennel, salt and pepper) - 2 cans of crushed tomatoes - Olive oil - Ground pork (a cheaper alternative to ground beef) This entire meal can be prepared for about $15.60, making it perfect for feeding a family of four. Step 1: Preparing Your Ingredients Before you start cooking, it’s essential to prepare your ingredients. Curtis and Lynnette emphasize keeping garlic and onions separate to avoid overcooking the garlic, which can lead to bitterness. To prepare: - Chop the onions and garlic, seperating them to maintain their individual flavours. - Remember that onions should be sweated until translucent, which brings out their natural sugars, enhancing the overall taste of the dish. Step 2: Cooking the Sauce Once your ingredients are prepped, it’s time to cook the sauce: 1. Heat olive oil in a large pan and add the onions, stirring until they are translucent. 2. Introduce the ground pork to the pan, breaking it apart as it cooks. 3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute. 4. Once the meat is browned, add the crushed tomatoes and season with your chosen spices. 5. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 20-30 minutes to let the flavours meld together. Pro Tip: Budget-Friendly Ingredients Using ground pork instead of ground beef not only saves money but also allows for a delicious sauce that doesn’t skimp on flavour. Consider shopping for seasonal vegetables to incorporate into your sauce or as a side dish, as they are often cheaper and fresher. Step 3: Cooking the Pasta While your sauce is simmering, cook the pasta: - Boil water in a separate pot and add salt to enhance the flavour of the pasta. - Cook the pasta according to package instructions until it reaches al dente. - Drain the pasta and mix it with the sauce, or serve the sauce over the pasta on individual plates. Cooking for your family doesn’t have to be expensive. With the right ingredients and techniques, you can whip up a delicious spaghetti and meat sauce for under $20. Remember to keep it simple, use ingredients on sale, and don’t hesitate to experiment with flavours.  Did you enjoy this episode? Let us know and we will make more cooking segments. Share your ideas at bringbacktheporch.com Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!  Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

    28 min

  3. 4D AGO

    Top 10 Fraud Schemes with Sgt. Adam Gregory of MHPS

    Fraud is one of those crimes that is continually evolving, with tactics becoming more sophisticated and often harder to detect. Today on the Porch Brian welcomes Sgt. Adam Gregory to discuss what you can do to protect yourself. Sgt. Gregory shares key insights on recognizing fraud and protecting yourself and your loved ones. Understanding these strategies is crucial, especially as we observe Fraud Prevention Month. Understand the Evolution of Fraud Fraud is not a static crime; it evolves based on social trends, seasons, and societal circumstances. For example, during holiday seasons or times of crisis, fraudsters adapt their tactics to exploit people's emotions and vulnerabilities. They are not just targeting individuals; organized crime is now multi-billion dollar operations that require awareness from everyone.  Why is Fraud Evolving? - **Social Media Influence:** The rise of social media has given fraudsters new platforms to reach potential victims. They craft messages that resonate with current events or popular sentiments, making their scams seem more legitimate. - **Seasonal Changes:** Fraud schemes often change with the seasons. For instance, scams may focus on gift-giving during the holidays or on tax-related fraud during tax season.  The Emotional Manipulation of Fraudsters Fraudsters prey on emotions, using fear, urgency, or desire to manipulate victims into acting quickly without thinking. This emotional manipulation is often accompanied by secrecy, making it essential to maintain open communication with trusted individuals about any suspicious situations. The Importance of Communication One of the most effective ways to prevent fraud is by fostering open communication. Whether it’s discussing potential scams with family members or verifying suspicious requests for money, talking about these issues can prevent many fraudulent incidents. Conclusion In summary, fraud is a continually changing crime that affects everyone, regardless of age or background. By understanding the evolving nature of fraud, maintaining open communication, recognizing red flags, and taking proactive steps, we can protect ourselves and others from falling victim to these schemes. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:09 The Persistence of Fraud and Its Evolution 02:12 Social Media Trends and Seasonal Scams 03:09 Common Misconceptions About Fraud Victims 04:38 Why Victims Don't Report Fraud 06:09 The Role of Communication in Prevention 10:39 The Grandparent Scam Explained 12:55 Artificial Intelligence and Voice Cloning Risks 15:50 Top Fraud Types in Medicine Hat 16:19 Investment and Cryptocurrency Fraud 18:32 Government Agency and Tax Scams 21:08 Rental and Marketplace Fraud 22:49 Device Hacking and Digital Security 24:22 Relationship and Romance Scams 26:18 Online Marketplace Safety Tips 28:43 Safe Practices for Renting and Buying Online 30:59 Fake Job and Overpayment Scams 32:24 Identity Theft and Data Security 34:00 Resources for Fraud Prevention and Victims 35:14 Final Tips and Conclusion  Resources Medicine Hat Police Service Fraud Resources - https://www.medicinehat.ca/en/services/fraud-prevention.aspx Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre - https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/ Alberta Community Crime Prevention Association - https://www.accpa.ca/ Equifax - https://www.equifax.ca/ Fraud Prevention Month (Alberta) - https://www.alberta.ca/fraud-prevention-month.aspx  Guest Links LinkedIn - https://w Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!  Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

    37 min

  4. 6D AGO

    More Than You Think: Redefining Homelessness Support

    More Than You Think: Understanding the Broader Impact of The Mustard Seed Brian welcomes Philip Calvert from the Mustard Seed to discuss their new campaign “More Than You Think”. In the realm of homelessness, misconceptions often cloud our understanding. Many view the issue through a narrow lens, forgetting that those experiencing homelessness are individuals with complex stories. “More Than You Think” seeks to illuminate the broader services provided by the Mustard Seed. The campaign aims to reshape the narrative around homelessness. Traditionally, the conversation has centred on immediate needs like shelter and food. However, as Philip explains, The Mustard Seed offers a much more comprehensive suite of services that are vital in moving individuals from homelessness to sustainable living. The campaign highlights that when community members contribute, whether through donations or volunteer efforts, they are part of a larger solution that encompasses far more than just charity. One of the goals of the campaign is to combat the stereotypes often associated with homelessness. Philip emphasizes the importance of language: instead of labeling individuals as "homeless people," we should refer to them as "people experiencing homelessness." This simple shift in phrasing humanizes the issue and acknowledges that homelessness is a circumstance, not an identity. The campaign encourages people to consider the varied and complex reasons that lead to homelessness, moving away from a simplistic view that paints individuals as a monolithic group. It invites community members to engage in conversations that reflect the nuances of each person's experience, fostering empathy and understanding. Events like the Coldest Night of the Year play a crucial role in raising awareness and funds for local initiatives. Philip acknowledges the hard work of volunteers and participants in these events, stating that all funds raised remain in Medicine Hat. This ensures that contributions directly support the individuals who need it most. Rebuilding trust within the community is vital for The Mustard Seed, especially after challenges faced in 2025. Philip outlines three key domains that contribute to building trust. The Mustard Seed is committed to these principles, ensuring that they remain transparent and engaged in the community. The "More Than You Think" campaign is more than just a fundraising initiative; it is a call to action for the community to see the broader impact of The Mustard Seed's work. By understanding the extensive services provided and challenging the stereotypes surrounding homelessness, we can create a more inclusive dialogue that encourages empathy and fosters sustainable solutions.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:31 The Inspiration Behind 'More Than You Think' 02:04 Scope of Services and Broader Mission 03:17 Campaign Duration and Future Plans 05:04 Addressing Stereotypes and Misconceptions 06:37 The Impact of Events Like Coldest Night of the Year 09:09 Walking in Someone Else's Shoes 11:05 Building and Rebuilding Community Trust 15:32 Overcoming NIMBY and Community Concerns 18:41 Shifting the Narrative to People-Centric Stories 19:57 Myth Busting: What Charities Really Do 21:43 Intake Process and Personal Stories 24:43 Addressing Pride and Asking for Help 25:01 How to Support and Connect with The Mustard Seed 27:37 Closing Remarks and Community Call to Action Resources TheSeed.ca - https://theseed.ca Guest Links Website - https://theseed.ca Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!  Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

    30 min

  5. MAR 10

    The Power of Perseverance: Joe Miller's Life Story

    Today on Bring Back The Porch we welcome Mark Miller who has a great story to tell about his late father Joe. Joe Miller came from humble beginnings overcoming adversity and with an unwavering spirit, left a lasting impact on everyone he met. Brian and Mark delve into Joe’s remarkable journey from Calcutta, India to Medicine Hat. Have you ever wondered how a person can rise from the depths of hardship to become a beacon of hope in their community? Mark speaks of his father’s life, as he faced tremendous challenges but emerged as a figure of strength and kindness. Joe’s story not only inspires, but also teaches us valuable lessons about perseverance and the importance of community. Learn about his early struggles, his journey to find family, and the profound impact he had on those around him. Joe Miller was born in India in 1935, the child of a Bengali mother and an unknown European father. Abandoned as a toddler, he was placed in an orphanage where he faced neglect and hardship. He endured a traumatic childhood, including being beaten by his foster mother, but he escaped, embarking on a harrowing journey of survival. At just five years old, Joe ran away from his abusive foster home, beginning a journey that would take him across India. He traveled 9,000 miles on foot, often relying on the kindness of strangers or taking odd jobs to survive. His journey led him to a British Air Force camp during World War II, where he found a sense of belonging and support from a mechanic named Nelson Taylor. Joe eventually travelled to London, England, marking a turning point in his life, as he adjusted to a new environment and learned to navigate familial relationships. He faced challenges in adapting to a different culture and language but persevered.He charted a winding path from post-war London to across the Atlantic to Canada, finally ending up in Medicine Hat. Known for his generosity and kindness, he volunteered extensively and became involved in various local clubs. His time as a wedding photographer and a maitre d’ helped him connect with people from all walks of life, creating a network of friends who cherished his spirit.  With the assistance of his son Mark, Joe eventually went on to write two books "Who Am I: A Little Book of Hope" was publshed in 2020   "I Am Who I Am: A Life Well-Lived" published in 2026 Both are available on Amazon Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:17 Joe Miller's Early Life in India and Adoption 02:14 Journey to England and Immigration to Canada 06:54 Joe Miller's Career and Community Involvement 08:50 Cultural Roots and Family Legacy 11:12 DNA Testing and Ancestry Discoveries 12:07 The Power of Humility and Community Connection 15:22 Perseverance Through Life's Challenges 17:18 Writing the Book and Sharing His Story 19:49 Future Projects: Documentary and Movie Ideas 24:16 Lessons of Hope and Resilience 25:38 How to Get a Copy of the Book and Final Thoughts3 Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!  Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

    28 min

  6. MAR 8

    Creating a music movement

    In this engaging conversation, local musicians Tim Herman and Muriel Erick share their musical journeys, the evolution of music events in their community, and the importance of fostering young talent. They discuss their recent bluegrass show, the rise of local music venues, and initiatives like the Treble Makers and Uke Crew that encourage participation from all ages. The conversation highlights the vibrant music culture in Medicine Hat and the positive impact of live music on community engagement.  takeaways Music often starts at home, influenced by family. Participating in music festivals helps build confidence. Local music events are thriving and expanding. Bluegrass is gaining popularity in unexpected places. Creating opportunities for youth in music is essential. Community support is crucial for local musicians. The Uke Crew offers a welcoming space for beginners. Live music fosters connections and community spirit. Mistakes in music can lead to growth and improvement. Engaging with music can be beneficial for mental health. Titles The Genesis of Musical Journeys Bringing Bluegrass to the Community  sound bites "You got to try it at least once." "We never turn anybody away." "Music's good for the brain." Chapters 00:00 The Genesis of Musical Journeys 05:17 Bringing Bluegrass to the Community 11:08 The Rise of Local Music Events 12:02 Creating Opportunities for Young Musicians 20:10 The Uke Crew: A New Musical Venture 23:55 Upcoming Musical Events and Community Engagement Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!  Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

    34 min

  7. MAR 7

    Behind the Sirens

    In this episode, Fire Chief Eakins discusses the 2025 annual report, community safety initiatives, emergency response strategies, and future challenges facing the fire service in Medicine Hat. Gain insights into fire prevention, response times, social media impact, and innovative programs shaping the future of firefighting. About Fire Chief Eakins Fire Chief Eakins has been at the forefront of the fire service in Medicine Hat, leading initiatives that prioritize community safety and enhance emergency response. With years of experience, he understands the critical role of the fire department in not just responding to emergencies but preventing them. The Shift Towards Community Safety The fire service has traditionally focused on responding to emergencies, but Chief Eakins emphasizes a proactive approach through community safety initiatives.  - **Community Safety Branch:** This department is pivotal in educating the public about fire prevention. Chief Eakins highlights the hiring of a fire life safety educator, which has significantly boosted public education efforts. - **Preventative Focus:** By investing in community education, the fire service aims to reduce the incidence of fires, ultimately saving lives and property. Chief Aikens notes, "...the more work that we can do on the front end to prevent fires will certainly save us on the back end." Enhancing Emergency Response The fire service's ability to respond swiftly to emergencies is critical. Chief Eakins discusses several improvements that have been implemented: - **Improved Response Times:** The goal is to have the first engine on scene within six minutes and 20 seconds. This commitment has been supported by initiatives such as traffic preemption systems that change traffic lights in favour of the responding vehicles. - **Training and Preparedness:** Continuous training ensures that firefighters can gear up and respond within 80 seconds, a crucial factor when every second counts. Social Media’s Role in Community Engagement Social media has become an essential tool for the fire service to connect with the community. Chief Eakins reports impressive growth in their social media following, with Facebook and Instagram engagement increasing by 320% and 420%, respectively. This rise reflects: In conclusion, the fire service is evolving to address the challenges of modern emergencies through proactive education, improved response strategies, and effective community engagement. By focusing on these areas, the fire department is better equipped to handle emergencies and educate the public on fire safety. For further insights, be sure to check out the complete annual report from Chief Eakins. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Fire Chief Aikens' Welcome 02:29 Community Safety Initiatives and Public Education 03:16 Social Media Growth and Community Engagement 04:21 Expanding Roles of Firefighters Beyond Fires 05:16 Top Emergency Responses and Call Volume Trends 06:52 Medical First Response and Community Support 07:41 Motor Vehicle Collisions and Traffic Safety 09:25 Collision Hotspots and Traffic Safety Insights 10:30 First Responder Academy and Youth Engagement 13:20 Response Times and Gear Up Efficiency 16:04 The Critical Role of 911 Communications 18:36 Next-Generation 911 and Future Technologies 20:16 Community Outreach with the Homeless and Encampments 24:00 After the Fire Program and Home Safety Education 26:28 To Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!  Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

    33 min

  8. MAR 5

    Distraction or Democracy

    Today on Bring Back the Porch, we dive into Alberta's upcoming referendum questions and the real motives behind them. It's a complex situation where the government might be playing a game of optics rather than addressing critical issues like healthcare and education. With a referendum that feels more like a self-fulfilling prophecy than a genuine call for public input, we discuss whether citizens will even engage in this process. The last referendum saw only 38% turnout, and with multiple questions on the ballot, will people feel overwhelmed? As we unpack the implications of these questions, it raises the concern: is this referendum merely a distraction from more pressing issues facing Albertans?  0:00 Introduction  01:02 The Political Context of Alberta's Referendum 02:16 Voter Participation and Referendum Challenges 03:40 Cost and Distraction of Referendums 04:35 Immigration and Political Rhetoric 05:49 Constitutional and Federal Negotiations 08:17 Alberta Next Panel and Public Engagement 09:23 Separation Referendum and Public Sentiment 12:52 Independence Movements and Political Persistence 14:00 Grassroots Movements and Political Polarization 16:22 Recall Petitions and Political Impact 17:31 Emerging Political Parties and Future Elections 20:27 Potential Leadership and Political Movements 21:48 Labour Movements and Political Influence 23:46 Media Strategy and Political Flooding 25:07 Economic Outlook and Oil Prices 29:38 Federal Politics and Leadership Dynamics 32:36 City Council Performance and Public Engagement 37:10 Conclusion and Future Outlook The Alberta government has proposed nine referendum questions, which have raised eyebrows and sparked debates. The discussion around these questions reveals much about the political climate in Alberta today. While many citizens feel overwhelmed by the number of issues being addressed, it's essential to understand the motivations behind these questions. The recent push for a referendum can be seen as a strategic move by the UCP to consolidate power and distract from pressing issues such as healthcare and education funding. Jim Groom emphasizes that this is not merely about gathering public opinion; it’s about crafting narratives that serve political agendas. One of the key concerns raised is the potential low turnout for the referendum. Historically, previous referendums have seen limited participation, often due to voter apathy or confusion over complex questions. Engaging citizens in meaningful discussions about these topics is crucial for a healthy democracy. The Alberta Next panel has played a significant role in shaping these referendum questions. However, critics argue that the panel's approach has been biased, steering discussions toward specific outcomes that align with government interests. This raises questions about the validity of the referendum questions and whether they genuinely represent the will of the people. As Alberta grapples with pressing issues like education and healthcare, the referendum serves as a distraction from essential conversations. Citizens must remain vigilant and question whether the government is genuinely interested in their input or merely using the referendum to reinforce its political position. Understanding the motivations behind Alberta's referendum questions is crucial for citizens as they navigate their political landscape. Engaging in informed discussions and actively participating in the democratic process is essential for ensuring that the governm Thank you for listening and sharing you are one in a million! We are excited to announce our community is growing and we couldn't do it with out you!  Hey we need your support. Like and subscribe to Bring Back The Porch Podcast Support the show

    39 min
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About

Bring Back The Porch, a podcast about simpler times when folks sat on their porch, and felt a sense of community. Everything was discussed on the porch from life, family, politics, and religion. Hosted by Bernie Leahy, this podcast aims to reignite those conversations, while giving people a chance to share their perspectives. 

Information

  • Creator
    Bernie
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    115
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Bring Back The Porch
  • Show Website
    Bring Back The Porch