Tag Archives: Toronto

podcast

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.

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.

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.

podcast

Gabriela Casineanu

Gabriela Casineanu is an award-winning author who founded the Immigrant Writers Association in 2018.

The IWA is a non profit organization that assists new Canadian immigrants find support to express themselves through creative writing.

Each year the IWA releases a new anthology featuring short stories and poetry from their members. This past Tuesday the IWA released a new anthology called Finding The Way featuring 12 new Canadian writers. https://immigrantwriters.com/finding-the-way/

Finding The Way features writing from new Canadians that have come from Ghana, Ukraine, Romania, USA, India, Cuba, Senegal, United Arab Emirates, Trinidad and Tobago.

This is Episode #275 of the Welcome! podcast.

podcast

Amin Kanji

Amin Kanji is one of 8 children raised by Jaffer and Khadija Kanji. His eldest brother is Noordin Kassam whom I interviewed in 2018. This is a continuation in a series of conversations I have with all the KKC siblings. Including my dad.

This is Episode #268 of the Welcome! podcast.

SPOTIFY
Apple Podcasts
TuneIn
Pocket Casts
You can also subscribe to the podcast via RSS Feed if you so desire.

podcast

Randell Adjei | Ontario’s Poet Laureate

Randell Adjei is Ontario’s first Poet Laureate. Hailing from Scarborough, Randell is an author, spoken word artist, educator, community leader and entrepreneur. RISE Edutainment is a social enterprise which seeks to give opportunity to youth across the city.

In this conversation we discuss:

  • what exactly does a Poet Laureate do
  • who inspired Randell to take up poetry in the first place
  • graduating as his high school valedictorian after a less than stellar beginning
  • starting RISE
  • working with companies like Holt Renfrew
  • his involvement with the Scarborough Hospital Foundation’s Love, Scarborough initiative
  • his favourite things about Scarborough
  • and so much more!

Follow the links for more information:

https://www.lovescarborough.ca/

https://www.randelladjei.com/

https://www.riseedutainment.com/

https://www.ontariopoet.org/

This is Episode #266 of the Welcome! podcast.

 

SPOTIFY
Apple Podcasts
TuneIn
Pocket Casts
You can also subscribe to the podcast via RSS Feed if you so desire.

podcast

Adil Dhalla | Play Advocate

Adil Dhalla is a Community Organizer, Social Entrepreneur and Play Advocate. Currently, Adil is the Director of Community for Camp Reset.

Learn more about Camp Reset at https://www.thisisreset.org/copy-of-home.

Almost 12 years ago Adil co-founded a start up called My City Lives. On their first anniversary I asked Adil 5 Questions:

  • What motivates you to do what you do on a daily basis?
  • If you had 30 seconds to impart your wisdom on a classroom of soon-to-be graduates, what would you say?
  • In your opinion, what has been one of the most important technological developments over the past 12 months?
  • If you had a crystal ball, what would you say will be the most important technological development over the next 12 months?
  • Who is one of Canada’s tech stars and why?
  • In this episode we finish off with a new 5 Questions. Listen to the end to hear the questions and Adil’s answers.

This is Episode #265 of the Welcome! podcast.

 

SPOTIFY
Apple Podcasts
TuneIn
Pocket Casts
You can also subscribe to the podcast via RSS Feed if you so desire.

podcast

Aneil Gokhale | Toronto Foundation

Aneil Gokhale is the Director of Philanthropy for the Toronto Foundation. In his role he is responsible for the development and management of the new business portfolio.  In this episode we discuss:

  • his work with the Toronto Foundation the Love, Scarborough fundraising initiative in support of the Scarborough Health Network Foundation.
  • how he switched from business and science to philanthropy.
  • his favourite things in Scarborough.
  • how young adults can become involved in philanthropy.
  • why Toronto is the best city in the world…for some people.

This is Episode #264 of the Welcome! podcast.

Listen here: 

SPOTIFY
Apple Podcasts
TuneIn
Pocket Casts
You can also subscribe to the podcast via RSS Feed if you so desire.

 

podcast

Husein Madhavji: Donkeyhead

husein madavji donkeyhead
husein madavji donkeyhead

This is Husein’s second appearance on the podcast. In this episode Husein calls in from hot and sunny Dubai where rumour has it that it is cold at night. Husien stars in the new film, Donkeyhead.

Donkeyhead is a 2021 Canadian comedy-drama film written and directed by Agam Darshi in her directorial debut. It stars Darshi as Mona, a woman tasked with taking care of her father with the help of her three siblings after he is diagnosed with cancer and his health starts to deteriorate.

This is Episode #262 of the Welcome! podcast.

Listen here: 

SPOTIFY
Apple Podcasts
TuneIn
Pocket Casts
You can also subscribe to the podcast via RSS Feed if you so desire.

 

podcast

Anuk Karunaratne

Anuk Karunaratne is the Executive Vice President of Business Operations for the Toronto Blue Jays.

Before the start of the 2021 regular season we sat down for a look back at the 2020 season as well as a look forward to the 2021 season and beyond.

This is Episode #255 of the Welcome! podcast.


Listen here: 

SPOTIFY
Apple Podcasts
Google Play Music
Stitcher 
TuneIn
Pocket Casts
You can also subscribe to the podcast via RSS Feed if you so desire.