listenuptv's Podcast

Listen Up #346 - The Aboriginal Predicament (VIDEO)

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 00:09:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up â Shaking up the status quo on Canadaâs Aboriginal Predicament.. Weâre here in beautiful British Columbia today to listen to Canadaâs Aboriginal people. They make up nearly 4 percent of our population. But their demographic leads the country in every social ill we face. Today weâll show you those realities, and explore ideas for a future of healing. Our story will take us across relationships aboriginal people have with Canada. Weâll listen for a spiritual view from a Christian church with a regretted past.

Listen Up #345 - Spirituality & Children (VIDEO)

listenup@listenuptv.com — Mon, 24 Mar 2008 00:06:00 GMT

Spirituality and children â a new study says it's good for their happiness. Today, weâre putting science and spirituality together for some surprising conclusions about happiness. The Happy Lab, a research group at the University of British Columbia, has new facts that say spirituality helps kids become happy. The scientific groupâs founder joins us to examine that study today. And weâll watch families try to navigate some of the deepest mysteries of how children absorb spiritual ideas that are Christian. Like what about Easter? That holiest of Christian holidays?

Listen Up #343 - Tragedy in Bridgewater (VIDEO)

listenup@listenuptv.com — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 00:02:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up: parenting trials that turn to tragedy. The circumstances surrounding a Nova Scotia pre-teenâs murder send ripples of horror through parents everywhere. Karissa Boudreau. Itâs a name that should have remained relatively unknown. A name that belonged to a 12-year-old girl. But Karissaâs name hit the headlines, when she disappeared after arguing with her mother in the parking lot of a Nova Scotia store. Two weeks later, police recovered her body from a river. Her death has been labeled homicide. Every parent of adolescents knows the stresses of raising teens. Today, weâll explore those stresses and we'll also look for spiritual solutions that can make a difference. THE CONTEXT On January 27. 12-year-old Karissa Boudreau disappears. Karissaâs mother Penny Boudreau tells police the two had argued in the parking lot of a grocery store. Penny reports she went into the grocery store, returning 10 minutes later to find her daughter missing. February 9. Karissaâs body is found--covered in snowâbeside the bank of the Lahave River. Not far from where her mother says she was last seen alive. Police are treating her death as a homicide, an isolated incident, the first in Bridgewater since 1993.

Listen Up #341 - Freaking Out at 40 (VIDEO)

listenup@listenuptv.com — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 21:26:00 GMT

Researchers say the mid-life crisis is real! The Context A study involving 2-million people in 72 countries around the world suggests that both men and women are less happy in their forties than at any other time in their lives. It reveals a global pattern of miserable middle age - a pattern that seems to apply regardless of demographics. Researchers found that people everywhere follow a U-shaped curve of psychological well being. The happiness dip in our forties, they believe, is intrinsic to human nature and temporary. The average, fit 70-year-old, is likely to be as happy and mentally healthy as a 20-year-old.

Listen Up #338 - Urban Struggles (VIDEO)

listenup@listenuptv.com — Sun, 3 Feb 2008 21:24:00 GMT

What's being done about low income, violence and children at risk? Today - a look at a confusing picture around poverty and urban struggle in Canada. While experts debate the data on poverty, no one can argue this fact: Canada is one of the wealthiest countries in the world. And yet millions in this nation struggle daily against the painful realities of low income, and lack of resources. Even our schools are no longer the safe-havens they once were. A recent panel investigation into school-based violence in Toronto blamed a culture of silence and fear among students and staff thatâs leading to unreported incidents. Today, weâre seeking understanding and inspiration on urban struggles. Weâll meet a group of urban, single moms best described as heroes. And we'll find out what they face when they send their children to school.

Listen Up #336 - Money Makeover (VIDEO)

listenup@listenuptv.com — Sun, 20 Jan 2008 21:31:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up â money make-over. When greed rules our financial decisions, our finances end up in a mess. The New Year is â for many people - a time to focus on finance. Following on the heels of holiday extravagance, restraint becomes the word. But itâs not just families that are re-evaluating their dollar decisions. Governments are also being cautious in the midst of concerns about the potential for recession. And much of that concern is rooted in the sub-prime crisis; a âmade-in-Americaâ? crisis thatâs impacting financial markets around the world.

Listen Up #334 - Influencing for Africa (VIDEO)

Sun, 6 Jan 2008 21:29:00 GMT

Leveraging influence for Africa. Hollywoodâs doing it, and so are countless Canadians; from big names to the lesser known. Weâll explore their innovative approaches to caring for the health of Africa. Whether theyâre adopting babies, opening schools, raising money at rock concerts, or speaking at public rallies, Hollywoodâs biggest names have been leveraging their star power to generate positive change in Africa for years. But countless, lesser-known people are also getting in on the act. Today, weâll explore the innovative approaches three Canadians are taking to caring for the health of Africa.

Listen Up #331 - Afghanistan on the Ground (AUDIO)

Sun, 16 Dec 2007 18:59:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up - Canadaâs war time mission and the reality of hope over it all. On the ground in Afghanistanâ

Afghanistan is a land locked in mystery and mountains. Many have tried to conquer it and failed.

And the cost has been high, not just in human lives but dollars.

Parliament has a big decision to make. To extend its mission until 2011 or pull out in 2009.

In the meantime thereâs a war of another kind going on Afghanistanâs soil â a developmental war - and Canada is heavily engaged. Our guests today are recently back from that front in Afghanistan â Listen Up Producer Dave Pascoe and Denise Lodde of 100 Huntley Street.

Listen Up #330 - Waiting for Christmas (AUDIO)

Sun, 9 Dec 2007 18:56:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up; Christmas contradictions. We explore the fuss and fundamentals behind the festive frenzy.

The Christmas shopping season is in full swing, and whether you celebrate for religious reasons or just because itâs a good excuse to party, the impact of the festive season on our calendars and on our culture is huge.

With all the shopping, decorating and celebrating at this time of year, stress levels rise and bank accounts fall.

Today weâll explore Christmas realities; here in Canada, and around the world.

Listen Up #329 - Taser Tragedy: Who is my Neighbour? (VIDEO)

Sun, 2 Dec 2007 18:49:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up, Looking for Kindness. We visit Vancouver International Airport to explore what went wrong in our response to someone in need.

It was on the floor of Vancouver International Airport that Canada has faced a question that hits close to home. âDo we have what it takes to be a good neighbour?â? Recently, a traveler died after being tasered by the RCMP.

Thanks to a video of the incident that was posted on the Internet, his final cries of frustration and agony have echoed around the world.

What went wrong? Could something as simple as kindness have prevented such a tragedy?

Listen Up #328 - Pro Sports: Winning the Character Game (VIDEO)

Sun, 25 Nov 2007 16:16:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up, we examine the sport celebrity phenomenon â are athletes the right people to be looking up to? We all have our idyllic sports heroes who make us proud; persevere against all odds and inspire us with their remarkable abilities. But alongside our heroes thereâs a long list of convicted pro athletes - Mike Tyson, Michael Vick, Marion Jones, Rob Ramage, Pete Rose, and Barry Bonds. Why have so many athletes fallen from grace?

Listen Up #326 - Remembering Burma (VIDEO)

Mon, 12 Nov 2007 02:22:00 GMT

More than 2-million Canadians are being remembered for their service in times of war and peace. Today weâll bring you greetings from soldiers in Afghanistan. But weâll also travel back through the decades and visit with veterans of whatâs been called âCanadaâs Forgotten War;â? Burma, where Canadians still lie in unmarked jungle graves.

While Canadaâs mission in Afghanistan has been mired in controversy, most Canadians concede the desperate humanitarian need there cannot be ignored. Weâll have more on that story in an upcoming Listen Up, with our producer Dave Pascoe back from assignment in Afghanistan

Caring for the human cost when there is no democracy has always been whatâs driven our soldiers to sacrifice. Case in point, todayâs veterans call to remember the Forgotten War - the 1940 to 1945 campaign for Burmaâs independence. Veterans of that war are still leveraging their concern for the people there. Burmaâs military junta recently brutalized protestors who demonstrated against a 500 % increase in the cost of essential goods. Led by peaceful Buddhist monks, the Burmese were protesting forced labor, political prisoners, the regimeâs violence, and a lack of food and widespread poverty. It all brought back memories for Burmese refugees to Canada.

Today, Burmese refugees in Ottawa pay tribute to Canadaâs care for freedom in their homeland.

Listen Up #326 - Remembering Burma (AUDIO)

info@listenuptv.com — Sun, 11 Nov 2007 19:50:00 GMT

Today - a special Remembrance Day edition of Listen Up TV.

More than 2-million Canadians are being remembered for their service in times of war and peace. Today weâll bring you greetings from soldiers in Afghanistan. But weâll also travel back through the decades and visit with veterans of whatâs been called âCanadaâs Forgotten War;â? Burma, where Canadians still lie in unmarked jungle graves.

While Canadaâs mission in Afghanistan has been mired in controversy, most Canadians concede the desperate humanitarian need there cannot be ignored. Weâll have more on that story in an upcoming Listen Up, with our producer Dave Pascoe back from assignment in Afghanistan

Caring for the human cost when there is no democracy has always been whatâs driven our soldiers to sacrifice. Case in point, todayâs veterans call to remember the Forgotten War - the 1940 to 1945 campaign for Burmaâs independence. Veterans of that war are still leveraging their concern for the people there. Burmaâs military junta recently brutalized protestors who demonstrated against a 500 % increase in the cost of essential goods. Led by peaceful Buddhist monks, the Burmese were protesting forced labor, political prisoners, the regimeâs violence, and a lack of food and widespread poverty. It all brought back memories for Burmese refugees to Canada.

Today, Burmese refugees in Ottawa pay tribute to Canadaâs care for freedom in their homeland.

Listen Up #325 Power of the Arts (VIDEO)

Thu, 8 Nov 2007 02:20:00 GMT

With more than 27-hundred murals, Philadelphia is the mural capital of the world. Listen Up traveled there recently, and uncovered stories of how this particular art form is bringing healing â to artists, and to entire communities.

âBeauty will save the world.â? So says a character in Dostoevskyâs 19th century novel, The Brothers Karamazov.

A lovely thought â but one that just might be rooted in truth - and the city of Philadelphia illustrates it.

A unique mural arts program is there literally blanketing the town with public art. And the impact is proving transformative.

Later in the program weâll meet an artist whoâs creating a mural on the theme of forgiveness - with the help of dozens of prison convicts.
Weâll also visit a community that truly became âa communityâ? through planning and creating a mural of their own.

Listen Up #325 - The Power of the Arts (AUDIO)

info@listenuptv.com — Wed, 7 Nov 2007 19:33:00 GMT

Listen Up #324 Selfish Driving (VIDEO)

Mon, 29 Oct 2007 02:21:00 GMT

Canadians are letting out their road rage â selfish and aggressive driving is on the rise â Itâs a growing problem. As police react with stiffer penalties; street racers, risk takers, and aggressive drivers are making roads and highways increasingly dangerous. Almost 1-in-every-5 vehicle crashes today is caused by aggressive driving. And whether its cell phones, PDAs, radios or simply the chatter of other passengers, time spent behind the wheel is no longer distraction free. Today weâll look at what can be done to make our roads safer. Join us as we look at safety on the roads.

Listen Up #324 - Selfish Driving (AUDIO)

info@listenuptv.com — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 18:03:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up, Canadians are letting out their road rage â selfish and aggressive driving is on the rise â

Itâs a growing problem. As police react with stiffer penalties; street racers, risk takers, and aggressive drivers are making roads and highways increasingly dangerous.

Almost 1-in-every-5 vehicle crashes today is caused by aggressive driving.

And whether its cell phones, PDAs, radios or simply the chatter of other passengers, time spent behind the wheel is no longer distraction free.

Today weâll look at what can be done to make our roads safer. Join us as we look at safety on the roads.

Listen Up #323 - Amish Grace - One Year Later (AUDIO)

info@listenuptv.com — Sun, 21 Oct 2007 17:47:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up - One year since an Amish schoolhouse tragedy began redefining the word forgiveness, even for the Amish. Also, an exclusive interview today on Listen Up!

Welcome to Listen UP, where one year since the Amish school house killings the Amish have built a school and called it New Hope. Today a story of how that new hope is taking forgiveness all around the world.

Listen Up #322 Unreasonable Accommodation? (AUDIO)

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 01:41:00 GMT

Unreasonable Accommodation

Listen Up #322 Unreasonable Accommodation? (VIDEO)

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 01:09:00 GMT

(UN)reasonable Accommodation?

Listen Up #321 Mission Afghanistan (AUDIO)

Sun, 7 Oct 2007 20:36:00 GMT

Mission Afghanistan - the world ponders the right approach to stabilizing a nation. 3-dozen countries maintain a presence in Afghanistan. Canadian troops are in the most hostile of territories there. But casualties are mounting -- and Taliban guerrillas have enjoyed a resurgence in the south. Canadaâs military mandate in Kandahar expires in 2009. And as the date draws closer - public debate is growing over what â if any - continued role we should play there beyond that time. Today, Listen Up looks behind the headlines to ask â âwhatâs the best way to be a force for positive change in such a broken and troubled land?â

Listen Up #321 Mission Afghanistan (VIDEO)

Sun, 7 Oct 2007 20:35:00 GMT

Listen Up #320 Doubting Teresa (AUDIO)

Sun, 30 Sep 2007 18:23:00 GMT

a dark secret only revealed ten years after her deathâ.Mother Teresa and her doubts about God. Today we head out to explore a journey of darkness. How could it be that our generationâs most famous Christian woman, Mother Teresa worried that God had abandoned her? Mother Teresa came from Albania, a country where communism banned belief in God. But by age 12 she knew she was chosen by God for service to the poor. By 18, she left for a Calcutta convent. Nine years later she made her vow to be a âspouse of Christâ? and began her journey to establishing the Missionaries of Charity. She opened more than 160 centers of care in India, by her death at age 87; she had homes for the destitute and dying in over 100 countries, and thousands of nuns to carry out the work. She had won the Nobel Peace Prize, and begged President Bush and Saddam Hussein to not go to war over Iraq. Vowing to own nothing, and with only a simple Indian dress, a veil, and one pair of sandals, she was able to influence decades of conversation about what does it mean to follow Jesus. Today - Weâll ask what is the Catholic Church thinking in releasing dark secrets Mother Teresa begged to be destroyed and talk with the priest who culled through Mother Teresaâs private letters and diary of angst and loneliness. Weâll also visit with a science writer whose work studying the brain waves of nuns sheds some light on doubting Teresaâs darkness. And what about Mother Teresaâs monthly habit of time spent with a spiritual director? Listen Up will take you on a journey to a Jesuit spiritual director to examine what do we do when we doubt God Loves us.

Listen Up #320 Doubting Teresa (VIDEO)

Sun, 30 Sep 2007 18:21:00 GMT

a dark secret only revealed ten years after her deathâ.Mother Teresa and her doubts about God. Today we head out to explore a journey of darkness. How could it be that our generationâs most famous Christian woman, Mother Teresa worried that God had abandoned her? Mother Teresa came from Albania, a country where communism banned belief in God. But by age 12 she knew she was chosen by God for service to the poor. By 18, she left for a Calcutta convent. Nine years later she made her vow to be a âspouse of Christâ? and began her journey to establishing the Missionaries of Charity. She opened more than 160 centers of care in India, by her death at age 87; she had homes for the destitute and dying in over 100 countries, and thousands of nuns to carry out the work. She had won the Nobel Peace Prize, and begged President Bush and Saddam Hussein to not go to war over Iraq. Vowing to own nothing, and with only a simple Indian dress, a veil, and one pair of sandals, she was able to influence decades of conversation about what does it mean to follow Jesus. Today - Weâll ask what is the Catholic Church thinking in releasing dark secrets Mother Teresa begged to be destroyed and talk with the priest who culled through Mother Teresa's private letters and diary of angst and loneliness. Weâll also visit with a science writer whose work studying the brain waves of nuns sheds some light on doubting Teresaâs darkness. And what about Mother Teresaâs monthly habit of time spent with a spiritual director? Listen Up will take you on a journey to a Jesuit spiritual director to examine what do we do when we doubt God Loves us.

Listen Up #319 - Atheism: Is Faith Stupid? (VIDEO)

Wed, 20 Jun 2007 03:55:00 GMT

Today we take a closer look at belief. It's prompted by the unexpected move that the best seller list is being topped by atheistic manifestos. We'll find out why this revival in atheism is underway and what to make of it. We'll also explore the psychology of belief and take a closer look at the journey for meaning, compassion and God.

Listen UP #319 - Atheism: Is Faith Stupid? (AUDIO)

Sun, 17 Jun 2007 15:00:00 GMT

Listen Up #318 - Making Faith Accessible (VIDEO)

Sun, 10 Jun 2007 15:00:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up, making faith accessible. We go on location to visit a library built to honour the message of the worldâs most popular preacher, Billy Graham. Heâs been called "the worldâs most popular preacher." Spiritual counselor to the meek and mighty alike. At 88, Reverend Billy Graham is in the twilight years of life. His body is wearing out. But a whole new generation is taking steps to see that the message he proclaimed in 85 countries, on six continents continues. Itâs a message the world seems to want.

#318 - Making Faith Accessible

Sun, 10 Jun 2007 15:00:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up: Making faith accessible. We go on location to visit a library built to honour the message of the world's most popular preacher Billy Graham. He's been called the world's most popular preacher. Spiritual counselor to the meek and mighty alike. At 88, Reverend Billy Graham is in the twilight years of life. His body is wearing out. But a whole new generation is taking steps to see that the message he proclaimed in 85 countries, on six continents continues. It's a message the world seems to want.

Listen Up TV 317 - Immigrants: Coming or Going?

Sun, 3 Jun 2007 15:00:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up: Collision on the immigration highway. When immigrants and their new country get the best from each other. Today we want to show you a remarkable story of what can be possible when people cross cultural barriers in immigration and get to know each other. We will explore that today and bring a story of Canadians helping refugees from Sudan return to their troubled homeland. A journey of potential lost, and found. But first, this year, Canada will welcome more than a quarter million new residents through immigration. That is more than last year. Higher targets and higher demands for professionally educated people because immigration is a cornerstone of nation building for Canada. In this season of our country's growth, immigration is how the government handles labor shortages caused by our aging population. Yonge Street in multi ethnic Toronto - Canada's largest city. More than half its population was born outside Canada. 40 % of the population here has a mother tongue that is not English. A nearby church has over 90 languages in its congregation But is Canada wasting its foreign treasure? A new study from Montreal's Institute for Research on Public Policy estimates inadequate recognition of immigrant credentials costs the Canadian economy up to $5 billion a year.

#317 - Immigrants: Coming or Going?

Sun, 3 Jun 2007 15:00:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up: Collision on the immigration highway. When immigrants and their new country get the best from each other. Today we want to show you a remarkable story of what can be possible when people cross cultural barriers in immigration and get to know each other. We'll explore that today and bring a story of Canadians helping refugees from Sudan return to their troubled homeland. A journey of potential lost, and found. But first, this year, Canada will welcome more than a quarter million new residents through immigration. That's more than last year. Higher targets and higher demands for professionally educated people because immigration is a cornerstone of nation building for Canada. In this season of our country's growth, immigration is how the government handles labor shortages caused by our aging population. Yonge Street in multi ethnic Toronto - Canada's largest city. More than half its population was born outside Canada. 40 % of the population here has a mother tongue that's not English. A nearby church has over 90 languages in its congregation. But is Canada wasting its foreign treasure? A new study from Montreal's Institute for Research on Public Policy estimates inadequate recognition of immigrant credentials costs the Canadian economy up to $5 billion a year.

Listen Up TV 316 - Teen Sex: Protection, Passion and Purity

Sun, 27 May 2007 15:00:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up, is a newly approved vaccination enough to keep girls sexually safe? That story next. If you live in North America, you have probably heard of HPV - Human Papillomavirus: a sexually transmitted virus that is one of the leading causes of cervical cancer. It is also the target of a new vaccine approved in North America for girls and women from 9 to 26. That 9-year-olds should even be considered for inoculations against sexually transmitted infections is raising eyebrows and provoking discussions among parents. Today, we willl hear from parents and experts who tackle everything from teen fashion to frank family talk on teen sex.

#316 - Teen Sex: Protection, Passion and Purity

Sun, 27 May 2007 15:00:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up is a newly approved vaccination enough to keep girls sexually safe? That story next. If you live in North America, you've probably heard of HPV - Human Papillomavirus - a sexually transmitted virus that's one of the leading causes of cervical cancer. It's also the target of a new vaccine approved in North America for girls and women from 9 to 26. That 9-year-olds should even be considered for inoculations against sexually transmitted infections is raising eyebrows and provoking discussions among parents. Today, we'll hear from parents and experts who tackle everything from teen fashion to frank family talk on teen sex.

#315 - Mental Illness

Mon, 21 May 2007 03:49:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up - mysteries of the ailing mind: moving towards understanding and compassion for the mentally ill. Canada has joined the other G-8 nations in establishing a National Mental Health Commission. Meanwhile, Canadian researchers are also on the cutting edge of diagnosing the causes of mental illness. Today, Listen Up visits the Toronto lab of a leading neuro-scientist who is recently pinpointed one of the genetic causes of schizophrenia and also talks with the CEO of the Canadian Mental Health Association to understand the scope and impact of mental illness. We'll also hear from two extraordinary people living with Mental Illness, and how their lives are ones of courage and compassion.

Listen Up TV 315 - Mental Illness

Sun, 20 May 2007 15:00:00 GMT

#314 - Virginia Tech

Mon, 14 May 2007 03:52:00 GMT

Today we're searching for hope and healing from out of the depths of the Virginia Tech tragedy. Later in the show, we'll travel to Blacksburg, Virginia, and meet some of the people deeply affected by the massacre. We'll speak with a bereavement specialist for her insights into the impact such devastation has on those involved, as well as on the broader community. We'll also visit with a counselor who is working with churches and social service agencies to create circles of care around people with complex needs, including those who suffer under the burden of mental illness. Ironically, it was not long after the sun came up on Monday, April 16, 2007 that the campus of Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia descended into darkness. A lone gunman, with a grudge against the world, had determined this would be the day to seek his revenge. At 7:15 that morning, 23-year-old Virginia Tech student Sung-Wee Cho - a man with a history of mental illness - shot and killed two people at a co-ed residence on campus. He returned to his own room long enough to mail out a package to the media, that would later be described as a multimedia manifesto. The package included photos, video clips and an 1800 word diatribe. It was a package that would give voice to his rage from beyond the grave. Two hours after the first shooting, Cho's second rampage began. Armed with two guns and countless rounds of ammunition, he moved methodically from classroom to classroom in the engineering faculty Norris Hall, mowing down everyone in sight. It was only when police finally broke through the doors of the building, that Cho brought an end to the carnage, by turning the gun on himself. When the sounds of the guns had silenced, 33 people were dead, including the gunman.

Listen Up TV 314 - Lessons from Virginia Tech

Sun, 13 May 2007 15:00:00 GMT

#313 - Cowboy Culture

Mon, 7 May 2007 03:39:00 GMT

Lessons from life in the Rodeo Ring! Whatâs kicking in the heart of a cowboy? Today we take the program to the wide open range of Alberta, and to the fascinating folks who raise the beef you enjoy. This week we take a look at Cowboy Culture - its games, its chores, and its approach to God. Itâs hard to figure out just how much this sport has branded Calgary â but the fact that locals call this place âCow Townâ? should give you an idea. This is the Calgary Stampedeâs Rodeo Royale â preliminaries to the big event in summer - and Â million dollars is up for whoever can make the most of man over beast.

#312 - Exposing "The Secret"

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 03:36:00 GMT

Finally, the secret to the Universe uncovered? Today a closer look at The Secret and what it claims is the key to happiness. Today we just couldnât resist helping you take a closer look at a best selling phenomenon sweeping North America. Itâs called The Secret â and despite its name itâs gotten very public. The Secret is something a collection of authors claim is delivered in all great religions of the world. They say it's a fundamental "law of the universe" -- one that began at the beginning of time and that always will be. Today â weâll critique what The Secret is â what, beyond a bonanza of books and DVDâs, is The Secret really marketing?

#311 - Sex for Sale

Sun, 15 Apr 2007 21:33:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up -Sex for Sale - a new court challenge aims to have prostitution decriminalized. It's been called the world's oldest profession and while most societies stigmatize prostitution; cultural attitudes towards the selling of sex range from the death penalty to sex workers being licensed, unionized, and even paying taxes. In Canada, prostitution is, technically, legal. But communicating for the purposes of prostitution, living off the avails of prostitution, and keeping a common bawdy house are not. And that makes sex-for-sale unnecessarily dangerous according to a new group that's mounting a constitutional challenge to decriminalize prostitution. We'll look into the grim realities of the sex trade today, and hear from people who work with prostitutes and sex workers and also hear from a woman who left a lifestyle of drugs and prostitution.

#310 - Evidence of Easter

Mon, 9 Apr 2007 03:35:00 GMT

Christianity is a faith built on evidence. Historical evidence and evidence of how Christian truths affect people's minds and hearts. For two thousand years there have been challenges to both dimensions of the worldâs most popular faith. This Easter is no different. Those challenging the facts of Christianity this time arenât theologians or archeologists â the challenge to Easter this year is coming from the trinity of Titanic Producer James Cameron, Emmy award winning journalist Simcha Jacobivici, and forensic paleobiologist Charles Pellegrino. Easter celebrates the life and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Jesus, the Bible tells, gave his physical body as the final price needed to restore humanity to its relationship with God. Eyewitness accounts of the gruesome death are recorded in Gospel writings of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. Those same eyewitnesses also give testimony to the reality that Jesus was resurrected â and shortly after returned to heaven. The Jesus Family Tomb story says it provides an avalanche of evidence that Jesus actually lived, but it disputes the physical ascension of his body based on the authorâs rediscovery of a tomb that earlier archeologists had dismissed as unimportant. Weâll hear both sides of that controversy today. Weâll also hear from Jim Wallis â a âRed Letter Christianâ? - and discover why some are digging into the words of Jesus with new enthusiasm. Join us for an interview with Jim Wallis - who says that the message contained in the red-letter verses (words spoken by Jesus) is a radical one âone that promotes a transformation of the heart and willâ?.

#309 - Family Meltdown

Sun, 1 Apr 2007 21:17:00 GMT

Is juvenile delinquency, sexual activity, stealing, gang violence, bullying and teacher victimization increasing among young people? A new study by the Vanier Institute says yes. What are parents and society doing to contribute to the problem?

According to a recent study by the Vanier Institute, there has been a dramatic increase over the last few decades in the number of children and teens with severe problematic behaviours. In Canada, the rate of violent acts among girls more than doubled during the 90s. Juvenile delinquency rates increased âspectacularlyâ? from the 1960s to the 90s. Canadaâs cities have experienced a resurgence of youth gangs. And the number of 7-to-11-year-old delinquents has increased and the types of crimes they commit have become more serious. On todayâs program, weâll find out some answers.

Listen Up TV 309 - Family Meltdown

Sun, 1 Apr 2007 15:00:00 GMT

Is juvenile delinquency, sexual activity, stealing, gang violence, bullying and teacher victimization increasing among young people? A new study by the Vanier Institute says yes. What are parents and society doing to contribute to the problem? According to a recent study by the Vanier Institute, there has been a dramatic increase over the last few decades in the number of children and teens with severe problematic behaviours. In Canada, the rate of violent acts among girls more than doubled during the 90s. Juvenile delinquency rates increased "spectacularly" from the 1960s to the 90s. Canada's cities have experienced a resurgence of youth gangs. And the number of 7-to-11-year-old delinquents has increased and the types of crimes they commit have become more serious. On today's program, we'll find some answers.

#308 - Canadian Aid to Afghanistan

Tue, 27 Mar 2007 13:26:00 GMT

Caring for a country in crisis. As the government renews commitment to Afghanistan, those involved on the front lines dig deeper to address the real cost of healing a nation. Today we look at new approaches to paying the cost for bringing relief to a country ruined by religious extremism. Afghanistanâs recent Taliban rule, two decades of war and four years of drought has left the land desolate and its people desperate. More than one million children have been killed, disabled, or orphaned. Half of all men ages 14 to 40 have been killed or maimed. 80 % of its teachers have either fled the country or been killed. Today we discover Canadian children are also part of the fallout. The neglect of mental health services to children whose parents serve as soldiers has launched an Inquiry. Weâll find out why and whatâs being done about it as we hear about the cost families pay for service abroad. Greg Lubimiv Health Partners International of Canada

Listen Up TV 307 - Contemporary Slavery

Tue, 27 Mar 2007 13:24:00 GMT

A Hollywood film tackles one of the greatest social ills of all time with Amazing Grace. The hymn that inspired the movie rose from the ashes of human bondage. The song lives on. So does slavery. If there's one thing Hollywood can't resist, it's a great story. A story with passion and conflict, tragedy and redemption. The new film, Amazing Grace, tells such a story. It's the evocative, true life tale of a 19th Century social reformer named William Wilberforce -- a man whose faith compelled him to campaign against the slave trade But two centuries after Wilberforce, slavery continues to thrive in our world today. 27 million people - more than at any other time in human history. Today we'll hear from two men who've recently freed slaves. Modern day abolitionists will tell us why slavery can be eradicated in our lifetime!

#307 - Contemporary Slavery

Sun, 18 Mar 2007 20:53:00 GMT

"Defeating human trafficking is a great moral calling of our time." Condoleezza Rice, U.S. Secretary of State A Hollywood film tackles one of the greatest social ills of all time with Amazing Grace. The hymn that inspired the movie rose from the ashes of human bondage. The song lives on. So does slavery. If there is one thing Hollywood cannot resist, it is a great story. A story with passion and conflict, tragedy and redemption. The new film, Amazing Grace, tells such a story. It is the evocative, true life tale of a 19th Century social reformer named William Wilberforce -- a man whose faith compelled him to campaign against the slave trade But two centuries after Wilberforce, slavery continues to thrive in our world today. 27 million people - more than at any other time in human history. Today we will hear from two men who have recently freed slaves. Modern day abolitionists will tell us why slavery can be eradicated in our lifetime!

#305 - Sects and the City

Fri, 16 Mar 2007 14:21:00 GMT

Living at peace, learning to love our neighbours when we differ. Muslims & Christians have lived side by side for centuries in many parts of the world, and with varying levels of peace. These two massive religions share many common interests but also many distinctions. Respect and tolerance for faith motivated convictions is shaping free speech, human rights, international security issues, and education. It's even shaping what a young girl can wear to a soccer game, where in Canada an 11 year old hijab wearing player became a political point for societal integration. Today we listen in on how Canadians are working out their differences. From a Christian pastor investigated for hate mongering to a missionary kidnapped by Muslim extremists, we'll bring you the drama of differences. And we'll look at Christian - Muslim relations through the lens of humour with Little Mosque on the Prairie producer, Zarqa Nawaz. We'll also hear how academics are facilitating multi-faith dialogue for their students and we've added a Question and Answer segment called Fair Play at the end of our show too!

#304 - Amazing Grace & the Abolition of Slavery

Sat, 10 Mar 2007 14:14:00 GMT

It's been 200 years since the Abolition of Slavery, but why is it still happening? Today â we look at an event that changed the history of the world - The abolition of slavery. Weâll focus on a man known as the Hero of Humanity, William Wilberforce. Weâll find out why todayâs political leaders are being exposed to a new movie that celebrates how Wilberforce used his Parliamentary influence to end slavery. The movie is called Amazing Grace â named for the famous old hymn written by a repentant slave trader, John Newton. Today weâll find out how this look back at history is being used to inspire a work against modern day slavery. Youâll be shocked where todayâs slaves are trapped. Slaves harvesting the chocolate we may eat, the clothes we may wear, weaving carpets, while the world sits unaware. Weâll feature an interview with a man who has personally rescued hundreds from 21st century slavery â you donât want to miss it!

Listen Up TV 305 - Sects in the City

Sun, 4 Mar 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Living at peace -- learning to love our neighbours when we differ... Muslims & Christians have lived side by side for centuries in many parts of the world, and with varying levels of peace. These two massive religions share many common interests but also many distinctions. Respect and tolerance for faith motivated convictions is shaping free speech, human rights, international security issues, and education. It's even shaping what a young girl can wear to a soccer game, where in Canada an 11 year old hijab wearing player became a political point for societal integration. Today we listen in on how Canadians are working out their differences. From a Christian pastor investigated for hate mongering to a missionary kidnapped by Muslim extremists, we'll bring you the drama of differences. And we'll look at Christian - Muslim relations through the lens of humour with Little Mosque on the Prairie producer, Zarqa Nawaz. We'll also hear how academics are facilitating multi-faith dialogue for their students and we've added a Question and Answer segment called "Fair Play" at the end of our show too!

Listen Up TV 304 - Amazing Grace & the Abolition of Slavery

Sun, 25 Feb 2007 16:00:00 GMT

It's been 200 years since the Abolition of Slavery, but why is it still happening? Today we look at an event that changed the history of the world - the abolition of slavery. We'll focus on a man known as the Hero of Humanity, William Wilberforce. We'll find out why today's political leaders are being exposed to a new movie that celebrates how Wilberforce used his Parliamentary influence to end slavery. The movie is called Amazing Grace, named for the famous old hymn written by a repentant slave trader, John Newton. Today we'll find out how this look back at history is being used to inspire a work against modern day slavery. You'll be shocked where today's slaves are trapped. Slaves harvesting the chocolate we may eat, the clothes we may wear, weaving carpets, while the world sits unaware. We'll feature an interview with a man who has personally rescued hundreds from 21st century slavery - you don't want to miss it!

#303 - African Green Revolution

Sun, 18 Feb 2007 16:39:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up. Farmers fight for a better way to use aid dollars in Africa. Today the battle over wise use of aid dollars to help the hungriest people. Should foreign aid be used to grow food in Africa and sustain its struggling agricultural economy, or should it be used to deliver food Today, we examine the dilemma from the perspective of the Africans who are rallying for a farmer-centred solution in their countries. Weâll also talk to the National Coordinator for Micah Challenge Canada who is working hard to increase Canadian Foreign Aid and use it more effectively to help those in need.

Listen Up TV 303 - The African Green Revolution

Sun, 18 Feb 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Farmers fight for a better way to use aid dollars in Africa. Today the battle over wise use of aid dollars to help the hungriest people. Should foreign aid be used to grow food in Africa and sustain its struggling agricultural economy, or should it be used to deliver food? Today, we examine the dilemma from the perspective of the Africans who are rallying for a farmer-centred solution in their countries. We'll also talk to the National Coordinator for Micah Challenge Canada who is working hard to increase Canadian Foreign Aid and use it more effectively to help those in need.

Listen Up TV 302 - Vancouver's Downtown Eastside

Sun, 4 Feb 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Fighting back against evil as one of Canada's worst criminal trials gets underway. Today on Listen Up TV, the trial of missing women that has put Canada's justice system into unprecedented challenge on a case which exposes just how evil humanity can be. We'll take you to Vancouver where the stories of women whose deaths are now the focus of an enormous trial has launched resolve of "never again." Twenty-six murdered women, all of them desperate, drug addicted prostitutes, whose final years were spent on the dangerous streets of Vancouver's Downtown eastside. But there is hope and today we'll hear from some amazing organizations working tirelessly in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside bringing value, respect, trust, friendship, and love to those who so desperately need it.

#302 - Vancouver's Mission Women Trial

Sun, 4 Feb 2007 14:59:00 GMT

#301 - Selective Parenting

Mon, 29 Jan 2007 02:22:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up - The Baby Business, and where the options science creates are taking us.

The natural work of having babies is becoming a complex journey of ethical choices. Reproductive technologies, screening for genetic diagnosis, and sex selection is creating a market for baby making that is moving forward fast ahead of our ability to discuss what might be right and what should be wrong.

Today, a university of the heart says weâre on a slippery slope to wiping out a very valuable part of our intelligence when we select for perfect babies. And, one womanâs intimate road to motherhood. Weâll also talk with parents of Down Syndrome children and hear their struggles and their triumphs.

#300 - Celebrating 300 Shows

Mon, 22 Jan 2007 03:45:00 GMT

WEâRE CELEBRATING! Itâs our 300th show and weâre taking the opportunity to look back on where weâve come from and reflect on all that weâve learned. Denise Lodde, a former producer of this show, has been invited back to help Listen Up look back over the past 7 years. She will host Listen UP TV as Lorna Dueck occupies the âhotâ? seat.

#299 - Video Gaming

Mon, 15 Jan 2007 02:12:00 GMT

A 10 billion dollar a year industry - Video Games. Kids clamour for them. Parents worry about their influence. And experts advise caution.

Listen Up TV 299 - Video Gaming

Sun, 14 Jan 2007 16:00:00 GMT

A 10 billion dollar a year industry - Video Games. Kids clamour for them. Parents worry about their influence. And experts advise caution.

#298 - Africa on the Silver Screen

Sun, 7 Jan 2007 18:29:00 GMT

Hollywood's attempt at telling the African struggle for justice - Leonardo DiCaprio, George Clooney and the people who stay after the camera's go away. It was once known as the Dark Continent but today, Africa is lighting up movie screens around the world. Hotel Rwanda told the failed story of the United Nations attempt to prevent a genocide. A lesson now being applied by those desperate to help 2.5 million displaced refugees facing what many call the slow genocide of Sudan - including Hollywood mogul George Clooney. We'll see his rescue attempts today, and watch in on another famous star. Leonardo DiCaprio said the astounding challenges of Africa taught him new meaning of the human spirit and the African energy for dealing with the most insurmountable problems. BLOOD DIAMOND his latest movie brings to the world the devastation caused by illegal diamond trading across Africa. What responsibility do we have when the injustice of Africa takes to the silver screen?

Listen Up TV 298 - Africa on the Silver Screen

Sun, 7 Jan 2007 16:00:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up â Hollywoodâs attempt at telling the African struggle for justice â Leonardo DiCaprio, George Clooney and the people who stay after the cameraâs go awayâ.

It was once known as âthe Dark Continentâ? but today, Africa is lighting up movie screens around the world. Hotel Rwanda told the failed story of the United Nations attempt to prevent a genocide. A lesson now being applied by those desperate to help 2.5 million displaced refugees facing what many call the slow genocide of Sudan â including Hollywood mogul George Clooney. Weâll see his rescue attempts today, and watch in on another famous star.

Leonardo DiCaprio said the astounding challenges of Africa taught him new meaning of the human spirit and the African energy for dealing with the most insurmountable problems. BLOOD DIAMONDS his latest movie brings to the world the devastation caused by illegal diamond trading across Africa.

What responsibility do we have when the injustice of Africa takes to the silver screen?

Listen Up TV 297 - 2006 Year in Review

Sun, 31 Dec 2006 16:00:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up: a look back at 2006!
Today, some of the stories that shaped our yearâ

Itâs common for people to look back at year end. Taking time to reflect on the past can be a fruitful process: one that gives birth to fresh resolve and new ideas for tackling old challenges.

Today, weâre remembering the year that was.

First, the international view. 2006 is just getting started when Iran announces plans to restart work on its nuclear energy program. Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon suffers a massive stroke. And Palestinians elect the terrorist organization Hamas in a stunning election result. Here at home, Canadians also go to the polls, and deliver the reins of the federal government into the hands of the Conservative party -- for the first time in more than a decade.

February, and the Winter Olympics in Torino, Italy captivate the world, providing a happy distraction from global problems. Also in February, the Muslim world erupts in angry, violent demonstrations, following the publication of newspaper cartoons negatively depicting the prophet Muhammad.

Meanwhile, Canadaâs largest cities get a lot of attention with concerns highlighting gangs and gun-related violence, homelessness and poverty. Listen Up hears from Dr. Eugene Rivers, that help could be a close as the local church down the block.

Itâs March and former Yugoslavian president, Slobodan Milosevic is found dead in his prison cell at The Hague, just as his four-year war crimes trial is drawing to a close. Former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein testifies at his trial for the first time. And North American students eager for freedom from the constraints of studying and school, take part in that annual ritual known as Spring Break.

Listen Up is looking back at 2006, at stories which caught our heart â like the elections in Haiti â and the struggle for democracy there. Amid the turmoil, we spoke with former playboy model Susie Krabacher who has found a new purpose in life, caring for Haitian orphans.

For Easter, we visited the fire-ravaged community of Lewis Creek and Barrier B.C. â to hear an incredible story of a communityâs forgiveness.

From forest fire to heated controversy. Throughout 2006, Canadians debate our role in Afghanistan, where our soldiers are engaged in active combat. And as the casualties mount, politicians wrestle over the extent of our involvement.

In May, thousands of people are killed and hundreds of thousands left homeless in Indonesia when an earthquake strikes Java Island. Former Enron executives Kenneth Lay and Jeffrey Skilling are found guilty of fraud and conspiracy by a Houston jury. And theatre goers around the world await the release of the movie version of The DaVinci Code â based on a book hailed as the most popular and controversial novel of our time.

Two African nations: Uganda and Sudan. Both have endured struggles that have devastated their populations, victimizing innocents and displacing countless thousands of people. Listen Up went looking for hope behind the headlines.

Closer to home, one of the top issues of concern to Canadians in 2006 was the environment. Listen Up went looking for the spiritual side of the story.

September saw Americans mark the fifth anniversary of nine-eleven, Pope Benedict 16th create a furor in the Muslim world for quoting a derogatory 14th-century text, and thousands of Canadian women flock to Torontoâs Air Canada Centre, when Billy Grahamâs daughter, Anne Graham Lotz, comes to speak.

In Canadian politics, Canadaâs First Nations citizens unite to say their historic native land claims can no longer be ignored. Caledonia, Ontario becomes the focal point for that unrest. Plans to build a subdivision on land the Six Nations people claim is theirs are overtaken by force.

October. International outrage follows the explosion of a nuclear device in the mountains of North Korea.
Americans are stunned by three school shootings in the space of a week. Listen Up travels to Pennsylvania to learn about the amazing story of forgiveness that arises in the midst of one of those tragedies.

In November, former Iraqi president Saddam Hussein is found guilty of crimes against humanity and is sentenced to death. Lebanese Christian cabinet minister Pierre Gemayel is assassinated and Israelis and Palestinians agree to a ceasefire in Gaza. Here at home, delegates from around the world gather in Halifax to discuss micro-credit â the big business of giving tiny loans to poor people. And when Canada pledges 40-million to international micro-credit programs, Listen Up is there to find out why.

December, and Canadaâs parliament wrestles with the issue of whether to reopen debate on same sex marriage.

#297 - 2006: Year in Review

Sat, 23 Dec 2006 16:17:00 GMT

Looking back at some of the highlights of 2006.

#296 - Christmas Special: Longing for Belonging

Sat, 23 Dec 2006 16:16:00 GMT

Weâve gathered in the home of a friend for todayâs Christmas broadcast. We hope this setting will help you feel a family welcome to our interviews today. Weâre in beautiful Oakville, Ontario, Canada. Here one of our broadcast friends has prepared a Christmas wonderland for you to enjoy. Our topic is the âLonging for Belongingâ?. We all have a spark that says âwho is my family ?â? That can sometimes have a complicated, and even painful conclusion. Today, the search for a happy ending in the quest to answer our longing for belonging. Here are our story guests for today. Faith Goodman is a volunteer with the Childrenâs Aid Foundation of Toronto. Faith lives in a city where there is not enough homes for children. Sheâll tell us why and what to do about it. Trent Kilner has no family line or documentation to explain his origins, his doesnât even know his birth date. Trent had an interesting reunion with our next guest Thanh Campbell. Thanh has three young sons, and is co-ordinator of a reunion of Operation Babylift. That was a government sponsored evacuation of 57 orphaned babies rescued from Vietnam that arrived in Canada â Operation Babylift is reuniting these young men, weâll hear their journey today. Longing for Belonging â someone working behind the scenes on this story and now stepping into the picture is our own associate producer, Melinda Estabrooks, and sheâs brought along her dad - Paul Estabrooks. Melindaâs own story involves a dramatic reunion with a birth mother who had to leave her at a Philippine orphanage. Weâll hear father & daughter realities of the longing for belonging. Christmasâ the celebration of God forever welcoming us into supernatural love through the gift of Jesus. Jesus began walking with the human race by becoming a baby in a manger. The gift that launched our celebration of Christmas. Bigger love than what our hearts can imagine. God invites us to move through our brokenness and bring our longing for belonging to Jesus. The Christmas message is that that there has been enough love given to set your world right again â thatâs what salvation means.

#295 - The Best Christmas Present

Sun, 17 Dec 2006 16:13:00 GMT

It's Christmas time and North American shoppers are hitting the malls and the Internet, in search of the perfect Christmas gift. Retailers are happy to meet the demand, and stores are all decked out to entice shoppers into the Christmas spirit. For the indecisive giver, gift cards abound. With pre-loaded plastic, it's now possible to give a loved one a gift of everything from groceries to gasoline. One hotel chain this year is offering gift cards loaded with up to $100-thousand dollars. Catalogues are also big at this time of year. Luxury retailer Nieman Marcus suggests their idea of the perfect Christmas present for the person who has everything: a trip into outer space. While charitable organizations have gotten into the catalogue business as well, inviting shoppers to purchase everything from livestock to clothing for poor third world families. World Vision is one of those organizations offering an alternative to the consumer gift-giving trend.

Listen Up TV 295 - The Best Christmas Present

Sun, 17 Dec 2006 16:00:00 GMT

Itâs Christmas time and North American shoppers are hitting the malls and the Internet, in search of the perfect Christmas gift.

Retailers are happy to meet the demand, and stores are all decked out to entice shoppers into the Christmas spirit. For the indecisive giver, gift cards abound. With pre-loaded plastic, itâs now possible to give a loved one a gift of everything from groceries to gasoline. One hotel chain this year is offering gift cards loaded with up to $100-thousand dollars.

Catalogues are also big at this time of year. Luxury retailer Nieman Marcus suggests their idea of the perfect Christmas present for the person who has everything: a trip into outer space. While charitable organizations have gotten into the catalogue business as well, inviting shoppers to purchase everything from livestock to clothing for poor third world families. World Vision is one of those organizations offering an alternative to the consumer gift-giving trend.

#294 - Revisiting Same-Sex Marriage

Sun, 10 Dec 2006 16:11:00 GMT

Gay Marriage gets a round of second thought in Canada's House of Commons and the rights of children argue against a social experiment of same sex marriage. Canada is putting the final steps in place to close the public debate on whether gay marriage should be permanent or not. While over 10,000 gay marriages have been legalized in Canada, there are still calls to revisit the issue. Objectors are asking the government to set apart a heterosexual marriage from a gay one. Today we look at one the strongest reasons for that request the future of children and their rights to know their genetic origins. Complications are arising from the gay marriage experiment. Religious freedoms are at risk, warn church leaders. Some have been taken to court and lost work for simply expressing their religious beliefs on homosexuality. Educating children in those beliefs is now considered homophobic in Canada. And two groundbreaking cases are in the courts where homosexual partners are asking to have three parents registered on the child's birth certificate.

Listen Up TV 293 - Our Planet in Crisis

Sun, 3 Dec 2006 16:00:00 GMT

Global warming, pollution, wildlife extinction, poisons and pesticides. What are we doing to this planet we call home? When world leaders gathered in Nairobi for a UN climate change conference recently, they learned our oceans are becoming more acidic, threatening the food chain. Droughts and floods in Africa are related to deforestation, and climate change is moving faster than human efforts to counteract it. We'll learn more about Canada's participation in the conference, and speak to critics who say our government isn't doing enough to address environmental concerns. We'll visit with two Halifax professors and learn that human domination is driving many seafood species to dangerously low levels. We'll also hear from environmentalist Dr. David Suzuki and speak with former U.S. Vice-President Al Gore about his new film "An Inconvenient Truth." Finally, we'll meet two men who believe caring for creation is not only the smart thing to do, it's their spiritual duty.

#293 - Our Planet in Crisis

Sun, 3 Dec 2006 13:23:00 GMT

Listen Up TV 292 - Microcredit: Tiny Loans, Tremendous Impact

Sun, 26 Nov 2006 16:00:00 GMT

More than a billion people the world over survive on less than a dollar a day. But those who work with the poor, say giving them tiny loans can have a tremendous impact... This week we're bringing you the show from Halifax, where we've found a gathering of people who want to revolutionize the way the world's poorest people get access to money. Imagine, 90 percent of the world's population can never access the banking services you and I take for granted. Today, we'll talk with a Nobel Peace Prize winner who says extreme poverty can become history. Also today, Listen Up will talk with the banker to the poor for the world's richest family; Bill and Melinda Gates. Why are they getting involved? And we'll talk one-on-one with Canada's Minister of Foreign Affairs on why your tax dollars are going to help the micro credit revolution. Financial services that transform lives.

#292 - Microcredit

Thu, 23 Nov 2006 14:28:00 GMT

#291 - Prison Reform

Mon, 20 Nov 2006 02:27:00 GMT

As Canada's federal government takes steps to crack down on crime and criminals others point to the need for reform within our country's prisons. Canada's justice system has been making headlines. Our federal government has tabled a bill that if passed, would toughen sentences for crimes involving firearms. Other bills will eliminate conditional sentences for serious and violent offences and make it easier to designate criminals as dangerous offenders. They're also preparing sweeping changes to the Youth Criminal Justice Act. In short, they're calling for more criminals to be sent to jail and stay there for longer terms. We'll speak with Canada's Correctional Investigator to get his thoughts on how these proposed changes could impact Canada's prisons. We'll also hear from people who work with offenders inside Canada's prisons, a man whose family has been touched by violent crime, and two people who have served sentences in Canada's federal penitentiaries.

Listen Up TV 291 - Prison Reform

Sun, 12 Nov 2006 16:00:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up â As Canadaâs federal government takes steps to crack down on crime and criminals others point to the need for reform within our countryâs prisons.

Canadaâs justice system has been making headlines. Our federal government has tabled a bill that if passed, would toughen sentences for crimes involving firearms. Other bills will eliminate conditional sentences for serious and violent offences and make it easier to designate criminals as dangerous offenders. Theyâre also preparing sweeping changes to the Youth Criminal Justice Act. In short â theyâre calling for more criminals to be sent to jail and stay there for longer terms.

Weâll speak with Canadaâs Correctional Investigator to get his thoughts on how these proposed changes could impact Canadaâs prisons.

Weâll also hear from people who work with offenders inside Canadaâs prisons, a man whose family has been touched by violent crime, and two people who have served sentences in Canadaâs federal penitentiaries.

Listen Up TV 290 - Faith that Forgives: Amish Anguish Part 2

Sun, 5 Nov 2006 16:00:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up, the choice of forgiveness and how the Amish model a response to evil.

WeÃïïre back this week with Part Two of a story that captured hearts around the world for the message it spoke on tragic crime and forgiveness.   In a reclusive Amish community in Nickel Mines, PA., life forever changed when an outside gunman stormed a one room school and shot ten Amish girls, killing five of them before he killed himself.   We continue last weekÃïïs look at the devastation. Today Ãïï the choice to forgive Ãïï what does it mean and how does it work?

ÃïïHow was this forgiveness lost, or how has it faded out among American citizens who say it is foreign?   We Amish do not wish to be recognized as a more forgiving church than any other denomination. There are millions all over the globe who would forgive the same as us. Forgiveness cannot be bought or borrowed. It needs to be practiced and nurtured daily. It will not happen overnight.Ãïï    -Benuel Fisher (Newspaper article from Oct 23/06 Intelligencer Journals, Lancaster, PA)

Living in closed community gives the Amish a chance to teach that more than most. Christ is the model for all of life to these people, and if Christ extended forgiveness to the human race, so must they.

Since Listen UpÃïïs first visit to this crime scene, the Amish have moved deeper into helping the traumatized children who survived the school house massacre.

#290 - Amish School Shooting - Part 2

Sun, 5 Nov 2006 02:29:00 GMT

Weâre back this week with Part Two of a story that captured hearts around the world for the message it spoke on tragic crime and forgiveness. In a reclusive Amish community in Nickel Mines, PA., life forever changed when an outside gunman stormed a one room school and shot ten Amish girls, killing five of them before he killed himself. We continue last weekâs look at the devastation. Today â the choice to forgive â what does it mean and how does it work? âHow was this forgiveness lost, or how has it faded out among American citizens who say it is foreign? We Amish do not wish to be recognized as a more forgiving church than any other denomination. There are millions all over the globe who would forgive the same as us. Forgiveness cannot be bought or borrowed. It needs to be practiced and nurtured daily. It will not happen overnight.â? -Benuel Fisher (Newspaper article from Oct 23/06 Intelligencer Journals, Lancaster, PA) Living in closed community gives the Amish a chance to teach that more than most. Christ is the model for all of life to these people, and if Christ extended forgiveness to the human race, so must they. Since Listen Upâs first visit to this crime scene, the Amish have moved deeper into helping the traumatized children who survived the school house massacre.

#289 - Faith that Forgives - Amish Tragedy Part 1

Sun, 29 Oct 2006 21:19:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up, we take you to Pennsylvania and the Amish schoolhouse tragedy to examine faith that forgives.

When an armed gunman seized and slaughtered young Amish schoolgirls in their one-room schoolhouse in Nickel Mines, Pennsylvania before turning the gun on himself he did more than commit an unspeakable crime. His heinous final acts set in motion a series of events that would turn the eyes of the world to the pretty, pastoral hamlet, and leave them in awe at what they beheld there.

For in the depths of their anguish, the Amish community to which the girls belonged chose to respond to their profound loss not with bitterness and hatred, but with acts and expressions of forgiveness.

And in the days and weeks that followed the tragedy, the world was left to ponder the ramifications of their choice.

Listen Up TV 289 - Faith that Forgives: Amish Anguish Part 1

Sun, 29 Oct 2006 16:00:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up, we take you to Pennsylvania and the Amish schoolhouse tragedy to examine faith that forgives.

And in the days and weeks that followed the tragedy, the world was left to ponder the ramifications of their choice.

#288 - Caledonia Part 2 of 2

Sun, 22 Oct 2006 20:22:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up, the battle for law and order when neighboring citizens canÃ??t agree on whose law rules the land. We look at CanadaÃ??s home on native land and the Caledonia dispute next. Ã?Â

Old thoughts of racism have come back to create a Canadian headache whose tension goes back 200 years. Tension over who owns tracts of land Canadians call home. Today we look at the Caledonia land dispute. A battle over a new subdivision that native people say should not be developed because the land was issued to the Six Nations people in 1784. Today, violence and protest have drawn the battle lines in fear over this tract of land, judges orders are being ignored, and no one seems to have answer for resolving a deeply held conflict that First Nations people say could be repeated at a 1000 disputed land claims across Canada.. What the legal mess is doing is sending many to the history books for a lesson in how to move forward in making a more peaceful future.

#287 - Caledonia - Part 1 of 2

Sun, 15 Oct 2006 20:38:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up, the battle for law and order when neighboring citizens canÃÂ??t agree on whose law rules the land. We look at CanadaÃÂ??s home on native land and the Caledonia dispute next. ÃÂ?ÃÂ

Listen Up TV 287 - Our Home on Native Land Part 1

Sun, 15 Oct 2006 15:00:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up, the battle for law and order when neighboring citizens canÃïït agree on whose law rules the land. We look at CanadaÃïïs home on native land and the Caledonia dispute next. ÃïÂ

#286 - Sick & Tired

Sun, 8 Oct 2006 20:18:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up â some practical tools for feeling better. From the worst disease in the world to the common loss of hope in our health â insights for your well beingâ Today we tackle the fear that our health isnât always in our control. As millions head out for flu shots, and for protection from what the season ahead might hold, we hear today from a medical group telling us the real danger facing us is the next pandemic Should we be getting ready, and if so, how? Weâll also hear a call for stopping the spread of the worldâs deadliest disease, AIDS. Abstinence advocates say their research is marginalized in the worldâs greatest area of need. Finally, weâll hear how to recover hope for our health from a doctor, and from a victim of a horrifying car crash â spiritual tools for realities that frighten us most.

Listen Up TV 286 - Sick & Tired

Sun, 8 Oct 2006 15:00:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up â some practical tools for feeling better. From the worst disease in the world to the common loss of hope in our health â insights for your well beingâ

Today we tackle the fear that our health isnât always in our control. As millions head out for flu shots, and for protection from what the season ahead might hold, we hear today from a medical group telling us the real danger facing us is the next pandemic Should we be getting ready, and if so, how? Weâll also hear a call for stopping the spread of the worldâs deadliest disease, AIDS. Abstinence advocates say their research is marginalized in the worldâs greatest area of need. Finally, weâll hear how to recover hope for our health from a doctor, and from a victim of a horrifying car crash â spiritual tools for realities that frighten us most.

#285 - Divorce in Canada

Mon, 2 Oct 2006 02:50:00 GMT

Today on Listen Up - changes in divorce rulings in Canada expand what commitment will cost, even after a break up. The messy business of putting marriage to rest has been given a reality check from Canada's Supreme Court. We'll look into its recent ruling on retroactive child support payments with the country's top divorce lawyer, Phil Epstein. We'll also ask about court precedent on emotional trauma of divorce, and joint custody changes and how they're being handled. And, with over a billion dollars in child support payments in areas across the country, lawyer Phil Epstein explains how a new ruling by the Supreme Court of Canada means the children of divorce should be getting fair financial assistance. Amid all the acrimony and thousands of cases behind him, Mr. Epstein gives his views on why so many couples end up in heartbreak. With more than 40 years of marriage to his own credit, he'll give us his opinion on recovering faltering relationships. We'll also hear from an expert on step-parenting on how to stabilize children in the face of divorce and hear Jessica's story of divorce and reconciliation.

Listen Up TV 285 - Divorce in Canada

Sun, 1 Oct 2006 15:00:00 GMT

Listen Up TV 284 - Down Under: Australia's Cultural Exports

Sun, 24 Sep 2006 15:00:00 GMT

Cultural branding has been a lucrative export for Australia and since the Australia Free Trade Agreement was made with the United States last January, the growing trend is likely to continue. But Australia's cultural image is also popular amongst locals Ãïï recently, thousands gathered to mourn the loss of the once-thought un-stoppable Steve Irwin. Prime Minister John Howard said he had known Steve Irwin, and that the country had lost a "wonderful and colourful son".

AustraliaÃïïs Prime Minister made headlines of his own in stating his country would demand more respect for its Christian heritage - weÃïïll talk about AustraliaÃïïs colourful approach to exporting its culture and its faith, today.
Today we look at some of the new innovative cultural exports Australia is presenting.