Peer Review - The University of Calgary Alumni Podcast

Theanna Bischoff, BA’06, is a registered psychologist and the author of two novels, "Cleavage" and “Swallow". On this episode of Peer Review we discuss the publishing process, why her books tackle challenging subjects, and Theanna explains why she prefers not to mix her psychology career with her writing.

David Gray, BA’88, is the host of the Calgary Eyeopener and a journalist at CBC/Radio-Canada. As a journalist of 20 years, Gray has covered stories from around the world, always striving to present the view of everyday people. Never one to shy away from expressing his opinion, David has been vocal about his on-again, off-again relationship with the University of Calgary. On this episode of the podcast, we revisit David’s time at UCalgary, discuss what it was like to travel to the Middle East with

Matt Embry, BA’99, started making movies when he was eight years old. Armed with remarkable hustle and ambition, Embry has gone on to experience the film industry on both sides of the camera. Now, as president of Spotlight Productions, Embry has helped produce and direct several Calgary focused documentaries and programs that have aided in telling the story of the city he loves. On this episode of Peer Review, we talk about the importance of receiving an all encompassing university experience, the

Vicki Stroich, BFA’99, has been a part of Alberta Theatre Projects for nearly 15 years. After starting as a student intern, Vicki went on to contribute to the company’s artistic and organizational success for 12 years before being named ATP’s Executive Director in 2013. Known not only in the local theatre community, Stroich has had an impact globally as former president of the Literary Managers and Dramaturgs of the Americas. On this episode of Peer Review, we revisit Vicki’s university days as a

Maurice Yacowar, BA’62, completed his degree when the University of Calgary was still UAC, a branch of the University of Alberta. Known as the controversial first editor of the Gauntlet, the university’s student newspaper, Maurice went on to a successful career in academia as a film professor, and as a dean at Brock University, Emily Carr Institute of Art and Design and at the University of Calgary. On this episode of the podcast, we discuss Maurice’s controversial Gauntlet days, his role in

Kali Taylor, BComm’10, firmly understands the important role today’s youth will have in shaping tomorrow’s energy industry. As the executive director of Student Energy, a global non-profit that is creating a movement of young leaders committed to transitioning the world to a sustainable energy future, Kali has become a global powerhouse. On this episode of Peer Review, we discuss the importance of youth leadership, life as a “hippie in a suit,” and new sustainable energy trends.

Alyssa Tilston, BComm’12, launched The Sugar Cube, Calgary’s mobile candy store, in March 2013. When she is not selling sweets on the streets, she works as a Marketing Manager at Sure Systems Ltd. On this episode of the podcast, we discuss her undergraduate experience at UCalgary, how to successfully use social media to grow a small business, and debate whether or not chips should be considered candy.

On this first episode we catch up with former astronaut and UCalgary’s new chancellor, Robert Thirsk, BSc’76, LLD’09 as he discusses growing up in Calgary as a provincial wrestling champion, his favourite music for space travel, and what it means to be UCalgary’s 13th chancellor. ucalgary.ca/alumni