All posts by karimkanji

Ben Johnson: A Candid Reflection on Track and Field, Legacy, and Justice

Ben Johnson
Ben Johnson

In a recent conversation, legendary sprinter Ben Johnson offered a deep dive into his thoughts on the track and field industry, pulling no punches as he questioned the authenticity of the sport and the performances of its athletes. He voiced his skepticism, suggesting that much of what the public sees is more about optics than genuine competition. For Ben, the future of track and field hinges on a generational shift, with younger athletes stepping up to take the lead in what he sees as an evolving landscape.

Ben also touched on the brutal reality of being an elite sprinter, noting that the physical demands often lead to short, intense careers. Drawing from his own experiences, he painted a picture of a sport that is as unforgiving as it is exhilarating.

The conversation took a personal turn as Ben spoke about his late coach, Charlie Francis. A figure whose influence on Canadian track and field cannot be overstated, Francis’s innovative training techniques were pivotal to Ben’s success. Ben stressed his unwavering commitment to Francis’s methods, attributing much of his career achievements to the guidance he received from his coach.

Beyond the track, Ben reflected on the crucial role his mother played in his life and career. He credited her strength and support as the foundation that kept him focused, especially during the most challenging times of his life.

The discussion also delved into the concept of justice—or the lack thereof—in Ben’s career. He passionately discussed the unjust ban that has barred him from coaching and participating in the sport, likening his struggle to the biblical tale of David and Goliath. This ban, he argued, has not only affected his livelihood but also represents a broader injustice within the world of athletics.

One of the more intriguing stories Ben shared involved Andre Jackson, a mysterious figure connected to his longtime rival, Carl Lewis. Ben recounted the lengths Jackson went to avoid recognition, adding yet another layer to the complex world of track and field. The conversation also shed light on the unconventional methods some athletes use to pass drug tests, further highlighting the murky underbelly of the sport.

Despite the setbacks and controversies, Ben remains hopeful for justice and resolution. He recounted the betrayal he felt when his drink was spiked, leading to a failed drug test, and expressed his frustration at the lack of accountability from those in power. Yet, even in the face of these challenges, Ben holds on to the hope that the truth will eventually come to light.

As the conversation drew to a close, Ben offered sage advice to young athletes. He emphasized the importance of loving the sport and using it as a stepping stone to secure a scholarship for a free education in the United States. He advised against returning to Canada, pointing out the greater opportunities available in America for building a successful life and career.

Finally, Ben spoke about his legacy. He expressed a strong desire to clear his name and expose the corruption he believes is rampant within the athletics world. His message to young athletes was clear: use sports as a means to better your future, but be aware of the limitations and challenges that come with it, particularly within the Canadian system.

This candid conversation with Ben Johnson offers not just a glimpse into the mind of a legendary athlete, but also a sobering look at the realities of a sport that, for all its glory, is fraught with challenges and injustices.

This is Episode #296.

This episode was sponsored by WELCOME TO TRAVEL. 

Olympic FOMO: A Unique Approach to Olympic Coverage with Jemeni and Mark Strong

Welcome back to another exciting episode of “Welcome with Karim Kanji.” This time, we had the pleasure of hosting the dynamic duo, Jemeni and Mark Strong, who will be gracing our screens with their show “Fear of Missing Olympics” (Olympic FOMO) during the CBC Paris Olympics coverage.
Our conversation kicked off with a sneak peek into their upcoming show. While the full details are still under wraps, Jemeni and Mark provided intriguing insights into what viewers can expect. They emphasized their dedication to offering a fresh and engaging perspective on Olympic coverage, blending storytelling, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and cultural elements to create an experience beyond the usual statistics.
As we delved deeper into their extensive careers in entertainment and media, Jemeni and Mark reflected on their long-standing friendship and dedication to charity work. They reminisced about their early days in underground hip-hop radio, sharing stories from Jemeni’s all-female hip-hop show, Droppin’ Dimes. Jemeni highlighted the challenges she faced in a male-dominated industry, while Mark revealed that he was the infamous caller who would hang up every week, adding a humorous twist to their shared history.
The heart of our discussion centered on “Fear of Missing Olympics.” Jemeni and Mark outlined their vision for the show, focusing on delivering a mix of Olympic coverage that showcases the human side of the athletes and the cultural richness of the host city. They are committed to highlighting diverse stories and perspectives, moving beyond the top headlines to include lesser-known but equally compelling narratives.
One particularly exciting element of their show is the inclusion of interviews with musicians and artists. Jemeni, with her deep roots in the music industry, plans to bring a unique blend of music and sports, providing viewers with a distinct perspective on the Olympics.
Our conversation wasn’t all business, though. We shared some lighthearted moments, including a funny incident from a TV show and a spirited debate about the best subway stations in Toronto. We also reminisced about Randy’s Patty and our plans to do a show about its return, with Mark hinting at having some insider information.
As we wrapped up, we discussed potential future collaborations, expressing our mutual appreciation and gratitude. This meeting was a productive exchange of ideas and experiences, setting the stage for what promises to be a groundbreaking show during the Paris Olympics.
Stay tuned for more updates on “Olympic FOMO” and don’t miss the chance to catch Jemeni and Mark Strong’s unique take on the world’s greatest sporting event.
This is Episode #295.

Tiger Woods: A Conversation with Bob Harig

Bob Harig
Bob Harig
Welcome to the show, the most respected golf writer today, Bob Harig!

Bob Harig is a distinguished golf writer now with Sports Illustrated, who previously lent his talents to ESPN and the Tampa Bay Times. Bob’s journey into the world of golf started in the suburbs of Chicago, where he worked as a caddie. His hard work and dedication earned him an Evans Scholarship, paving his way to Indiana University.

Bob’s career is nothing short of impressive. He’s had the privilege of following and documenting the incredible career of Tiger Woods, witnessing firsthand all of Woods’ major championship victories. His deep insights and compelling storytelling have made him a highly respected voice in the golf community.

Karim Kanji and Bob Harig discussed Harig’s new book, Drive: The Lasting Legacy of Tiger Woods.

The discussion delved into Tiger’s physical challenges and mental strength, his journey from amateur to professional, and his career highlights and legacy.

The episode also highlighted the lasting impact of Tiger Woods on golf and society. Despite the complicated nature of his legacy, the participants emphasized the importance of not compromising and setting daily goals to stay on track, drawing inspiration from Tiger’s drive and resilience.

Find more information about Drive: The Lasting Legacy of Tiger Woods and Bob Harig here: https://www.amazon.ca/Drive-Lasting-Legacy-Tiger-Woods/dp/1250288754

This is Episode #294.

Donovan Boucher – Canadian Boxing legend

Donovan Boucher
Donovan Boucher

Welcome to the show, Canadian boxing icon, Donovan Boucher!

Karim Kanji and Donovan Boucher engaged in a personal conversation, sharing details about their current activities and reminiscing about their past experiences, including Donovan’s involvement in boxing and personal anecdotes from his life.

Donovan discussed his boxing journeys, including his shared experiences with Shawn O’Sullivan and including his transition into the professional boxing world. The conversation culminated in the detailed retelling of the intense build-up to their pivotal fight at Varsity Arena, where Boucher emerged victorious in the second round, solidifying his position in the boxing world.

Boucher also shared details about his boxing career, his children’s academic successes, and his transition into stunt work and the movie industry. The conversation touched on the current state of boxing, with a focus on the highly anticipated fight between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul. They shared their diverse opinions on whether such fights are beneficial for the sport and speculated on the potential outcomes of the match.

The conversation also delved into the financial hardships faced by fighters, drawing attention to the role of promoters like Don King and the tendency of some fighters to squander their earnings. They shared anecdotes about fighters who have suffered financial losses due to mismanagement and betrayal. The conversation underscored the significance of financial literacy for fighters and the need to be discerning about entrusting their finances to others. Additionally, they expressed hope for a more transparent and fair financial landscape for fighters in the future.

This is Episode #293.

Patrick Hakeem

Patrick Hakeem
Patrick Hakeem

In the latest episode of “Welcome with Karim Kanji,” we shine the spotlight on Patrick Hakeem, a comedian whose roots span the globe, enriching his comedic lens with layers of multicultural experience. Born in Montreal, Patrick’s half-Syrian, half-Ecuadorian heritage, combined with growing up in an all-Italian neighborhood, imbues his comedy with a rich tapestry of cultural influences.

The conversation ventured into Patrick’s recent stand-up special and album recording, shedding light on the intricacies and challenges encountered amidst a pandemic-laden world. Amidst the laughs, Patrick revealed insights into the Sirius XM realm, offering a glimpse into the lesser-known territory of radio royalties for comedians.

With a shared disinterest in political satire, Patrick and I navigate the terrain of comedy with a focus on personal connection. Their exchange underscored the vital role of relatability in crafting humor, delving into Patrick’s journey from reluctance to embrace stand-up amidst distractions.

Anecdotes flowed as Patrick and I recounted encounters with audience dynamics, from the absurdity of a self-proclaimed minority to the disruptive presence of hecklers. Patrick also lamented the dwindling platform for Canadian comedians, reflecting on Much Music’s transition and the saturation of comedy specials in the streaming era.

Throughout the episode, a deeper narrative emerged, painting a portrait of resilience amidst a changing comedic landscape. Patrick Hakeem’s journey serves as a testament to the power of cultural fusion in comedy, bridging divides with laughter and shared experiences.

Tune in to “Welcome with Karim Kanji” for a captivating exploration of comedy, culture, and the ever-evolving world of entertainment.

Check Patrick Hakeem out on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/patrickhakeembro/

This is Episode #292 of the Welcome! podcast.

Mary Ormsby on Ben Johnson: World’s Fastest Man*

Mary and I discuss Mary’s upcoming book, “World’s Fastest Man*,” which focuses on Ben Johnson’s life and career including the process of researching and uncovering new perspectives on events from the past.

We also delved into the 1988 Seoul Olympics, discussing their individual experiences during the event and the cultural significance of the Ben Johnson and Carl Lewis rivalry.

Mary recounted her journey to writing Ben Johnson’s book, detailing her initial resistance due to her lack of experience and discomfort with the subject matter. She explained how she eventually agreed after retiring from her job at the Star and receiving encouragement from Ben, despite feeling uncomfortable with the idea of being the one to tell his story. Mary also reflected on her belief in the miscarriage of justice surrounding Ben’s story, expressing her determination to do her best to understand and tell his story.

This episode also explored the complex dynamics between Ben Johnson and his coach, Charlie Francis, shedding light on Francis’s coaching techniques and the introduction of performance-enhancing drugs into Johnson’s training regimen. We also examined the prevalent culture of drug use in the 1980s athletic community and Johnson’s decision to use steroids despite the ethical implications.

The discussion provided insight into the blurred lines between fair competition and rule-breaking, as well as the impact of these factors on Johnson’s mindset and career trajectory.

For more information on Mary Ormsby’s book please visit: https://sutherlandhousebooks.com/prod…

This is Episode #291 of the Welcome! podcast.

Kris Siddiqi

Welcome to the podcast, Kris Siddiqi!

We talked about the Canadian comedy scene, Siddiqi’s experiences in television, and his personal life. We also discussed the death of the Just for Laughs Festival and the need for more exposure for local comedians across Canada.

We also talked about Siddiqi’s roles in Law & Order and the presence of Canadian actors in the show. Kris and I also discussed his experiences hosting galas at the Winnipeg Comedy Festival and the challenges of raising children in the entertainment industry.

The conversation also touched on the shifting terrain of comedy, with Kris and I raising questions about the impact of the democratization of comedy content and the absence of traditional gatekeepers. We explored the challenges of navigating the vast quantity of comedy specials on platforms like Netflix and the need for comedians to carve out their unique voices in this new comedic landscape.

The meeting ended with Kris sharing details about his recent projects in television, such as the Netflix show, I Woke Up A Vampire, and Apple TV’s The Changeling.

Visit Kris on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/thesiddiqs/?hl=en

This is Episode #290 of the Welcome! podcast.

Dan Speerin: Toronto Tomorrow

dan speerin and karim kanji
dan speerin and karim kanji

Life’s journey is a winding road, filled with unexpected twists and turns. Recently, I had the honour of engaging in a profound conversation with my friend, Dan Speerin. Together, we embarked on a reflective journey, delving into our pasts and sharing personal stories that have recently shaped our lives.

As I reminisced with Dan, memories flooded back—moments of joy, personal losses, and the profound impact of the pandemic on our plans and experiences. Our conversation was more than just an exchange of tales; it was a deep dive into the essence of our shared humanity.

Dan’s recounting of his journey to Toronto Metropolitan University struck a chord with me. His resilience in the face of early struggles and his determination to succeed in the Canadian entertainment industry were inspiring. But beyond his personal narrative, Dan shed light on the vital role universities play in nurturing talent. His advocacy for mentorship and industry insights resonated deeply with me, reflecting my own belief in the power of guidance and support for aspiring creators.

The conversation took a thought-provoking turn as Dan and I discussed the significance of storytelling. We explored how narratives, like the cautionary tale of Elizabeth Holmes and Theranos, shape perceptions and behaviors. Together, we emphasized the importance of bridging generational divides and fostering better understanding through effective communication.

Navigating the complexities of podcast monetization amidst the pandemic was another topic we tackled. Dan and I shared insights into the challenges faced by events-based organizations and the potential for local podcasting networks to thrive in our communities.

Check out Dan’s show on Global AM 640: https://globalnews.ca/national/program/toronto-tomorrow

This episode is brought to you by Welcome To Travel!

This is Episode #289 of the Welcome! podcast.

Unveiling the Depths: A Riveting Conversation with Beth French

Beth French
Beth French

In a recent podcast episode that will undoubtedly leave ripples in your soul, our host, Karim Kanji, engaged in a profound dialogue with none other than the remarkable Beth French. Together, they embarked on a journey that touched upon the vast expanse of the sea, the intricacies of personal health, and the awe-inspiring challenge known as the Ocean Seven Challenge.

The conversation set sail with reflections on the sea’s proximity to their respective locations and the diverse accessibility it offers across different regions. Beth, a force of nature, shared poignant insights into her health journey, including her son’s profound love for water activities and her courageous participation in the Ocean Seven Challenge. Picture this: conquering seven global channels solo, without any form of assistance – an extraordinary feat that only someone of Beth’s caliber could undertake.

Yet, beneath the surface lies a story of resilience and determination. Beth candidly opened up about her battle with ME, unveiling the physical pain, bedridden moments, and the often underestimated struggles that accompanied her condition. Her decision to venture into channel swimming after becoming a single mother speaks volumes about her indomitable spirit, tackling both health barriers and the unique challenges of solo parenting.

The conversation further explored the contrasting perspectives of our hosts on open water. While Beth embraced it as a transformative experience, Karim found himself navigating a wave of apprehension.

Beth, ever the storyteller, unveiled the significance of documenting her channel swimming exploits. Her transformative journey involved pushing personal boundaries, conquering mental and physical hurdles, and realizing her own capabilities. The decision to attempt all seven channels in a single year reflects not just her resilience but also her quest to comprehend her body’s extraordinary capabilities.

Yet, the story doesn’t end there. The conversation extended to the challenges Beth encountered while filming her swimming adventures and parenting Dylan, her son with autism. It’s a testament to her multifaceted journey, encapsulating not just personal triumphs but the intricate dance of life’s challenges.

Join us on as we dive into this exploration of resilience, self-discovery, and the awe-inspiring journey of Beth French, as she navigates the seas and the ebbs and flows of life’s challenges. This blog post is just the surface; the podcast is the deep dive.

This is Episode #288 of the Welcome! podcast.

Unveiling the Sonic Legacy: A Deep Dive into Grant Avenue Studio’s Control Room

grant avenue studio
grant avenue studio

Welcome to an enriching exploration in the latest episode of “Welcome To The Music,” where Karim Kanji, alongside Gregg Tilston, unfolds the intricate narrative of Grant Avenue Studio’s Control Room. In this episode, we engage in profound conversations with the masterminds behind the scenes, Mike Bruce and Andrew Lauzon.

This piece delves into the heart of Hamilton’s musical legacy, unraveling the studio’s rich history. From hosting distinguished visitors to the meticulous crafting of a distinctive “house sound,” we venture into the personal anecdotes that breathe life into this iconic space.

Mike and Andrew generously take us on a behind-the-scenes tour, sharing their journey and offering exclusive insights into the studio’s intricacies. The mixing and editing suite, featuring high-end gear tailored for independent producers, is laid bare for our exploration.

Our discourse explores the timeless allure of vintage gear, shining a spotlight on unique sonic qualities like the Neumann M49B mic. Andrew passionately emphasizes the irreplaceable value of vintage gear, crafting a sonic signature that echoes the concept of a “house sound.”

The narrative weaves around the idea that a studio’s historical legacy serves as an everlasting inspiration for artists, propelling the creation of new musical stories. The episode concludes with tantalizing hints about upcoming talent in Hamilton, promising a vibrant future for the local music scene.

Join us in this podcast episode as we celebrate the essence of musical storytelling and its profound influence on shaping the future of sound. Step into the magic of Grant Avenue Studio and uncover the sonic legacy it holds within its walls.

This is Episode #287 of the Welcome! podcast.