ALFA Relations

“Every workout counts even if it’s only for 15 minutes. Just do it.” Anonymous. In episode 29, the ALFA Relations team is joined by Isabel Pasian-Rozahegy to discuss fitness and well-being. Isabel gives her definition of fitness, explains the benefits of exercising, and gives advice on training motivation. In addition, Isabel talks about the inspiration behind her fitness journey and what she finds most challenging with exercising.  Follow Isabel: https://www.instagram.com/pasian.isabel/ Follow ALFA: https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/

In episode 28th, the ALFA team is joined by photographer, social media director for CSU, culinary pro, and Concordia’s very own, Melvin Herbilla. He discusses his process of taking photos and some of the work he has done. In addition, he talks about his role as social media director for the Concordia Student Union and his work as a youth worker. Melvin also gives the listeners some background on how he got into professional cooking and what he enjoys most about culinary. Follow Melvin: https://www.instagram.com/herb.photographie/ Follow ALFA: https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/

In episode 27, the ALFA Relations team is joined by co-founder and director general of Grow Still, Jasmine "Jas" Mascarenhas. She explains what Grow Still is, their mission statement and the services they offer. In addition, she discusses the origins, the inspiration, a typical day and the roles and responsibilities at Grow Still. ALFA also talks about their partnership and the importance of a community-collaborative approach. Follow Grow Still  https://growstill.org/ Follow ALFA https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/ CHECK OUT: Care2Share circles (Up coming event on May 26th about Substance Abuse/Addiction) https://www.facebook.com/events/4082495725145930/?acontext=%7B%22ref%22%3A%2252%22%2C%22action_history%22%3A%22[%7B%5C%22surface%5C%22%3A%5C%22share_link%5C%22%2C%5C%22mechanism%5C%22%3A%5C%22share_link%5C%22%2C%5C%22extra_data%5C%22%3A%7B%5C%22invite_link_id%5C%22%3A322205279263370%7D%7D]%22%7D Presencing Institute https://www.presencing.org/ Vipassana Meditation https://www.dhamma.org/en-US/index

In episode 26, the ALFA Relations team is joined by the man behind ALFA and American ally Jay. They update the viewers on the status of COVID-19 in Canada and the US. They inform the listeners of case numbers, vaccine info and vaccine process. In addition, the team discusses the outcomes/feelings in regard to measures implemented by the Canadian and US governments and how COVID-19 is affecting mental health.    Resources: Taking care of your mental and physical health during the COVID-19 pandemic https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/mental-health.html?utm_campaign=hc-sc-phm-21-22&utm_medium=sem&utm_source=ggl-grant&utm_content=ad-text-en&utm_term=mental%20health%20covid&adv=2122-0008&id_campaign=12663558361&id_source=119762101629&id_content=511679450585 https://www.concordia.ca/health/mental/services.html https://www.mcgill.ca/wellness-hub/access-care/access-virtual-services Info-Social 811 Psychosocial telephone advice and referral : Info-Social 811 Tel-jeunes Telephone: 1‑800‑263‑2266 Website: www.teljeunes.com  LigneParents Telephone: 1‑800‑361‑5085 Website: www.ligneparents.com (in French only) Elder abuse Province-wide elder abuse crisis and referral Telephone: 1‑888‑489‑2287 Caregiver Support Caregiver Support is a free and confidential phone consultation, information and referral service for the caregivers, as well as friends and family, practitioners and health care professionals. Telephone: 1‑855‑852‑7784 Email: info-aidant@lappui.org SOS domestic abuse Free, anonymous and confidential 24/7 service for victims of domestic abuse and anyone affected by it Telephone: 1‑800‑363‑9010 Provincial helpline for victims of sexual assault Telephone (24/7): Montreal region: 514‑933‑9007 Everywhere in Québec: 1‑888‑933‑9007 Province-wide suicide prevention hotline Telephone: 1 866 APPELLE or 1‑866‑277‑3553 Drug help and referral Telephone (24/7)Montréal area: 514‑527‑2626 Elsewhere in Québec: 1‑800‑265‑2626 Tel-Écoute – Ligne Le Deuil Telephone: 1‑888‑533‑3845 Website: www.tel-ecoute.org/services (French only) Deuil-jeunesse Telephone consultation, individual and family interventions for both adults and children.  Telephone: 1‑855‑889‑3666  Website: www.deuil-jeunesse.com (in French only) Crisis help line Community organization that supports people experiencing emotional distress Telephone: 1 855 EN LIGNE or 514‑278‑2130 Québec telephone crisis lines Locate a Québec telephone crisis line in your area at www.lignedecoute.ca (in French only). Mouvement santé mentale Québec Toolkit for strengthening mental health at work. Website: https://mouvementsmq.ca/trousse_covid/ (in French only) Protecting your well-being – American Sign language Protecting your well-being in the COVID-19 pandemic – American Sign language (ASL)  Learn more Don’t forget about mental health while at home! (PDF 304 Kb) Don’t forget about mental health! (PDF 304 Kb) Related Mental health Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Québec Answers to questions about Coronavirus (COVID-19) How to recognize a reliable source of information on health Preventing deconditioning in seniors during the pandemic

“When people talk, listen completely. Most people never listen.” Ernest Hemingway. In episode 25, the ALFA Relations team is joined by Elizabete dos Santos to discuss workplace conflict. She explains her background in HR, conflict scenarios, and ultimately how to prevent them. In addition, ALFA explores the differences between AHSC’s Human Relations program versus HEC’s, the most suitable methods for resolving conflict and how textbook knowledge gets thrown out once in the workforce.  Follow ALFA  https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/

In episode 24, the ALFA Relations team discuss everything from life skills such as finance, communication, cooking, routine, time management to the best chicken nuggets you’ll ever have. Follow ALFA  https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/

In episode 23, the ALFA Relations team is joined by english high school teacher, Neala Popowich. She discusses bill 101, bill 21, racism, and the reason she teaches in a french high school instead of an english one. In addition, she gives advice to those looking to study a second language and tips for individuals aspiring to become a teacher.  Follow ALFA  https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/

“Happiness is the meaning and the purpose of life, the whole aim and end of human existence.” - Aristotle. In episode 22, the ALFA Relations team is joined by the first chair of Applied Human Science and legendary Concordia professor, Randy Swedburg. He discusses how the Applied Human Science department came to be, his mission statement and his time teaching in the beginning of AHSC. In addition, he talks about what it’s like being a professor versus a chair in the department, Elderhostel Canada, his work and experience working for Corrections Canada and using leisure as a verb.  Follow ALFA  https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/

“I can't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.” - Jimmy Dean. In episode 21, the ALFA Relations team returns back to the trio for an episode filled with laughter and life updates. The squad discusses their hunt for a job and new beginnings in the workforce. In addition, Allen gives advice on what to do when rejected from a job interview. Follow ALFA  https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/

“I try to see interviewing as performance art, and just take it as it comes.” - Liz Phair. In episode 20, the ALFA Relations team is led by Alex and Allen, due to Luca being out because of work. They give the listeners an update on their lives and their hunt for jobs. In addition, they discuss their process of getting a job and provide advice on interviewing and getting into the workforce as recent graduates/soon to be graduates.  Follow ALFA  https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/

“A wise person should have money in their head, but not in their heart.” - Jonathan Swift. In episode 19, The ALFA Relations team is joined by Concordia student and founder of FutureMe Finance, Maria Stawnichy. She discusses the idea and origins of her program and her personal journey with finances as an emerging adult. In addition, she breaks down her finance program, explains the importance of setting realistic goals and values and shares what her values mean to her in relation to finances. Maria also explains the “money mindset” and gives advice to emerging adults on how to be more financially efficient.  Follow FutureMe Finance  https://futuremefinance.ca/ https://www.instagram.com/futuremefinance/ Follow ALFA  https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/

“Music does bring people together. It allows us to experience the same emotions. People everywhere are the same in heart and spirit. No matter what language we speak, what color we are, the form of our politics or the expression of our love and our faith, music proves: We are the same.” - John Denver. In episode 18, the ALFA Relations team is joined by music producer, A&R, P.R, and producer manager, Manny Matthews. He discusses where his passion for music spawns from, his story behind wanting to get into producing music, and his experience with management. In addition, Manny talks about the Montreal music scene, what he looks for in artists, and the importance of collaboration for growth. ALFA also converses with Manny about mental health and the struggles of upcoming music talent.  Manny's socials:   Manny's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/immanuelmatthews/ Manny's Twitter: https://twitter.com/immanuelmatt Manny's projects: https://linktr.ee/mannymatthews   Manny's collaborators:   Tibe: https://www.instagram.com/prodbytibe/ Yiff: https://www.instagram.com/soufwestyiff/ foulchild: https://www.instagram.com/foulchild/ Kaheem Isica: https://www.instagram.com/kaheemisica/ Seven LC: https://www.instagram.com/iam7lc/ and more...   Follow ALFA https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/

“Fear is often our immediate response to uncertainty. There's nothing wrong with experiencing fear. The key is not to get stuck in it.” (Gabrielle Bernstein). In episode 17, the ALFA Relations team catches up and discusses uncertain times. The team talks about their mental health break and the importance of prioritizing it. Allen breaks down his experience of getting COVID-19 and the pressures of finding his first place. In addition, Alex gets everyone up to the date with the chaos of her last semester and potential job prospects. The team also catches up with Luca and explores his experience of trying to get into the workforce.   Follow ALFA https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/

“Listening doesn’t mean I’m agreeing with you, it means I’m listening to understand you.” - Diane Fulton. In episode 16, the ALFA Relations team is joined by Concordia University professor Diane Fulton to discuss leadership. She talks about the importance of leadership, the benefits and challenges of it and what it takes to be an effective leader. In addition, she gives insight on leadership, decision-making, and conflict during the global pandemic, and breaks down the difference between a leader, a manager, and a facilitator.   Follow ALFA https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/?hl=en

“Without communication, there is no relationship. Without respect, there is no love. Without trust, there’s no reason to continue” - Anonymous. In episode 15, the ALFA Relations team is joined by brand ambassador and best friend, Patrick Laranjeiro to talk about relationships. They discuss dating during COVID-19, the struggles of being socially distant, and dating outside of your culture and religion. In addition, they explore what the most important factors are in a relationship to succeed and how to build trust with your partner. Book: The Relationship Cure https://www.amazon.ca/Relationship-Cure-Strengthening-Marriage-Friendships/dp/0609809539   Follow ALFA Relations  https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/   Follow Project Vive https://www.instagram.com/viveproject/

“You gotta take the good with the bad and you gotta be able to be mentally tough, more than physically” - Jay Jackson. In episode 14, the ALFA team is joined by their talented graphic designer and great friend, Jay Jackson! This episode explores Jay’s career in theft prevention, his past as a Sergeant in the Marine Corp, being a father, as well as, his passion for graphic design. How does he do it all? Listen to find out! Follow Jay Jackson https://www.instagram.com/jayjaxon/ Follow ALFA Relations https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/ “BE YOUR OWN ALFA” hoodies are still available on instagram until February 12th, 2021.

Bottle up, "to keep (a feeling or emotion) inside instead of expressing it; to hide (a feeling or emotion)" - Merriam Webster. In episode 13, the ALFA Relations team are joined by Vive’s project manager of events, Stefania Restagno. Stefania joined the ALFA team to discuss and promote Vive’s “Don’t Bottle It Up” event - an event meant to destigmatize the notions that revolve around mental health. In this episode, the team, facilitated by Stefania, conduct their own simulation of DBIU and dive deep into their own mental health journeys.  Vive’s “Don’t Bottle It Up” event: DATE: January 28th, 2021 TIME: 7pm to 9pm WHERE: Zoom The event is free to attend, however, they will be taking donations! All proceeds will be donated to Head and Hands, an organization whose mission is to provide youth with the tools they need to make informed decisions about their physical and mental well-being. Don’t Bottle It Up event Tickets: https://e.sparxo.com/Vive-DBIU Vive’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/viveproject/ Vive’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/concordiavive Enactus Concordia: https://www.instagram.com/enactus_concordia/ Head and Hands: https://headandhands.ca/ Mental health resources at Concordia: https://www.concordia.ca/health/mental/services.html https://www.concordia.ca/health/mental.html   BE YOUR OWN ALFA hoodies still available at: https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/

“Lots of people want to ride with you in the limo, but what you want is someone who will take the bus with you when the limo breaks down.” - Oprah Winfrey. In episode 12, the ALFA Relations team are joined by their fourth member - Faisal Nouri - the F to their ALFA! He discusses his experience of moving to Canada from Lebanon, in his teens, and what that transition was for him. In addition, the team discusses Faisal’s contribution to ALFA and how the idea came to be. His passion for photography, and his aspirations of the future are also explored. Strap in and get ready, because this episode is a bumpy ride! https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/ https://www.instagram.com/faisalnouri/

“Wanting to be someone else is a waste of who you are.” - Kurt Cobain. In episode 11, the ALFA Relations team discusses what being your own ALFA means to them, as well as disclosing some personal experiences that relate to their own journeys. In addition, they reveal the launch of the “Be Your Own ALFA” hoodies and the meaning behind the brand. Be Your Own ALFA is about being unique and embracing yourself for who you are. We’re all systems our own journey and it's about trusting that process.  https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/ EMAIL: alfarelations@gmail.com

"Do not wait until the conditions are perfect to begin. Beginning makes the conditions perfect." - Alan Cohen. In episode ten, the ALFA Relations team wraps up their first season with a year in review. They discuss what they learned about the process of starting their podcast; taking a look at their first episode to now, and what that process has been like. In addition, they look back on their funniest, favorite, and stressful moments on the podcast. Lastly, they hint at upcoming projects being released in 2021 and talk about New Year’s resolutions. So ALFAs, what are your thoughts on New Year’s resolutions? REMINDER Season 2 premieres on January 12th, 2021 We launch our project on January 12th, 2021 as well!  https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/

“We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing.” -George Bernard Shaw. In episode nine, the ALFA Relations team is joined by Concordia professor and play expert, Steven Henle. He defines what play is, the importance of play in adults, and how playfulness leads to relationship satisfaction. In addition, he discusses how to play amidst the pandemic, teaching in a virtual world compared to in-person and the future of teaching. So ALFAs, how will you continue to play as you grow older? https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/ Link to CAPS- https://www.concordia.ca/students/success/career-planning.html?utm_source=redirect&utm_campaign=career-planning-services Link to FutureReady- https://www.concordia.ca/students/success/future-ready.html?utm_source=vanity&utm_campaign=futureready Metaphor that we can all use to add a playful attitude in our lives, despite our disabilities. https://www.ted.com/talks/amy_purdy_living_beyond_limits?language=en Play-related research, concepts, examples. https://www.ted.com/talks/stuart_brown_play_is_more_than_just_fun?language=en

“An empty lantern provides no light. Self-care is the fuel that allows your light to shine brightly.” - Unknown. In episode eight, the ALFA Relations team discuss the completion of their first ever giveaway and the importance of supporting small/local businesses. The teams checks in with their Instagram followers, in addition to checking in with themselves to discuss how they’ve been doing with the end of semester. The importance of mental health and self-care is brought up, as the team urges students to take care of themselves during these times. Remember to check-in with those around you! How are you all doing? Drop your one word check-in! https://www.instagram.com/kat.lands/ https://www.instagram.com/thiccthinndesigns/ https://www.instagram.com/alfarelations/  https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1EHOvoAnquFsx9qIBHAW-WDEqrsZurznj

"Teamwork begins by building trust. And the only way to do that is to overcome our need for invulnerability." – Patrick Lencioni. In episode seven, a respected individual known as “the People’s Champion”, joins the ALFA Relations team to discuss his journey with group development. This man is no other than Dr. Timothy Farmer: a mentor, a counseling psychologist, and professor. He explores the roots of the Applied Human Science department at Concordia, his visual impairment and how he’s had to adapt, and his involvement in some civil rights movement. In addition, he discusses the essential parts for an effective team and the “hippie” times of an AHSC course, working in task groups. So, are you ready for Saturday nights with Timmy?

“To inspire, educate and empower people and organizations to achieve their peak potential in human communication and life purpose, through evolutionary change.” - Ron Thiessen. In episode six, counseling psychologist, consultant, change evolutionist, author, and professor Ron Thiessen joins the ALFA Relations team to discuss his life journey and purpose. He explores different topics, such as mission statements, the importance of setting goals and his work as a counseling psychologist, professor and change evolutionist. In addition, he gives the ALFA listeners a breakdown of his book, Reset Your Internal GPS. So ALFAs, are you ready to create your own mission statement?

It's one thing to follow a faith, though it's another to lead one. In episode five, family man, pastor, and student, Graeme Dyck, joins the ALFA Relations team to discuss his spiritual transition from partier to pastor. They discuss the changes Graeme has gone through, including his move from Winnipeg to Montreal, his journey of becoming a pastor, his community work and his take on fatherhood.

“The power of radio is not that it speaks to millions, but that it speaks intimately and privately to each one of those millions.” -Hallie Flanagan. In Episode four, local celeb and Montreal radio legend Cat Spencer joins the ALFA Relations team to discuss his journey of radio. He talks about the state of radio twenty years ago versus now, some missed opportunities, the future of the industry in Montreal, adapting to the new conditions due to COVID-19, his thoughts on podcasting, and much more.

Anxiety: Apprehensive uneasiness or nervousness usually over an impending or anticipated ill (Merriam-Webster). In Episode three, the ALFA Relations team discusses Luca’s personal growth in overcoming social anxiety, Allen facing his fears and saying yes to new opportunities, and Alex’s openness to making new friends.

Since the beginning of time, human beings have been faced with new challenging circumstances for which they had to adapt. Having faced our latest challenge in 2020, how are you adapting? In Episode two, the ALFA Relations team brings awareness to Suicide Prevention month, discusses adapting to the new status quo caused by COVID-19, and provides tips to listeners on how to succeed with online schooling. Help Hotlines/Services: https://www.crisisservicescanada.ca/en/looking-for-local-resources-support/?fbclid=IwAR1Bv9VGlmSZsfkDmJnoxlW8y2NaIwREbJE8p1-qaSxUU0R3VHwa--XYpzQ https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ https://suicideactionmontreal.org/en/?fbclid=IwAR08Tgv4XpcHw-xC0lK3IA4uMZQaXZOTJ8gKP_2SrVrd377tdfKJ3SHEiMM http://www.concordia.ca/coronavirus/wellbeing/mental-health.html?fbclid=IwAR0MgV86thCQWUcewOMGe-JrO2BQHOZPFnmNNvgHX-0S1Ar29nvrkIoMXLA https://www.mcgill.ca/wellness-hub/?fbclid=IwAR3i7zYI56svYwZFHPufYzy4vkJWygPJmz6W8TlIWY6GxjBSF5HuiUoDVuQ https://www.mcgill.ca/thewelloffice/emergencies?fbclid=IwAR2B4eQkTLl-g-v5m4XFweill9lvZXAYyw-qEpiKm7fioOc33mqW9IwY8xg#:~:text=Tel.%3A%20514%2D723%2D,for%20people%20affected%20by%20suicide

Every good story starts at the beginning. In episode one, the ALFA Relations squad explores the origins of how they met, how the idea of the podcast came to be, what ALFA Relations is all about, their goals, and what they plan to do going forward.