The Sanctuary

In this captivating episode of The Sanctuary,  rising Nigerian artist OG Mage dives deep into his incredible journey from software engineer to full-time musician.OG Mage opens up about the viral success of his breakout hit "Head of State," revealing how a simple Instagram reel with a flute sample turned into one of the most talked-about drill songs. He shares the wild story of shooting the music video in just two days with help from his Abuja community, proving that grassroots support can create magic.The conversation explores his creative process, from his university days coordinating a Christian rap group to collaborating with legendary Nigerian rapper Ill Bliss on "Like An OG." OG Mage discusses his unique approach to features, his spiritual connection to music-making, and the stories behind his captivating cover art designs.Beyond the music, he reveals his multifaceted background as a digital artist and software engineer who taught himself to code by writing out the code on paper before he even had a laptop. From working at MTN to his recent role at D Brand, he explains how he finally leapt to pursue music full-time.Looking ahead, OG Mage teases his upcoming EP "The Calm" and hints at "The Storm" - a major project featuring collaborations with established artists like Skales. Throughout the conversation, his core message rings clear: consistency is everything.This episode offers an intimate look at an artist who's building something authentic in the Nigerian music scene, one collaboration and one consistent step at a time.Check him out @ogmagegram

In this explosive episode of The Sanctuary, host Israel sits down with Dwayne Marcial, former Director of Artists and Industry Development at the East Coast Music Awards (ECMA), for an unfiltered, no-holds-barred account of what really happened behind the scenes of one of Atlantic Canada's most important music organizations.Dwayne pulls no punches as he reveals the shocking reality of organisational dysfunction, alleged conflicts of interest, and the systematic exclusion that led to the dramatic ousting of Executive Director Blanche Israel and his own resignation. From mysterious 10-year handshake deals with no paperwork to board members vacationing in Mexico during crunch time, this conversation exposes the deep-rooted problems plaguing the institution meant to champion Atlantic Canadian artists.Dwayne reveals how a petition signed mostly by non-members led to organisational chaos, why six board members resigned in rapid succession, and how the organisation burned through Executive Directors in a single year while haemorrhaging funds that should have supported artists.But beyond the drama, this conversation is ultimately about the future of Atlantic Canada's music scene. Dwayne shares his vision for reform, explains why he believes artists of all genres—not just Celtic and folk—deserve equal support, and offers hard-won advice for musicians navigating an industry where politics often trumps talent.Whether you're an artist, industry professional, or simply someone who cares about supporting regional music, this episode will leave you questioning how music organisations operate and what real change looks like. Dwayne's passionate call for transparency, accountability, and genuine inclusivity is about reimagining what music advocacy should be in 2025.This is the conversation the music industry needs to hear, delivered with the brutal honesty that only comes from someone who witnessed it all from the inside.@realdjslim

In this candid conversation, Melissa Shadows opens up about her journey from traditional marriage to embracing non-monogamy, polyamory, and BDSM.She shares how photography and erotic art became both a creative outlet and a form of healing, and how trust, vulnerability, and the right partners shaped her evolution as a submissive.There is a dive into topics of jealousy, compersion, building meaningful connections, and what it really takes to thrive in alternative lifestyles.Enjoy this honest, vulnerable, and deeply human story about self-discovery, pleasure, and growth.

Mark Gane, the multi-talented musician, songwriter, visual artist, designer, and gardener best known as a founding member of Martha and the Muffins. Mark opens up about his latest experimental project, "Garden Music" - an ambient album that blends decades of collected sounds with evocative plant names as inspiration.We explore Mark's creative origins, growing up surrounded by music and art through his family, and how his early days at the Ontario College of Art led to forming Martha and the Muffins in 1977. Mark shares the story behind their unconventional band name and reflects on decades of making music.The conversation dives deep into his unique songwriting process for Garden Music, where he collected 40+ years of field recordings and musical fragments, then composed around common plant names like "Blue Mist," "Deadly Nightshade," and "Love Lies Bleeding." He discusses the challenge of knowing when a piece is complete, the importance of track sequencing, and how gardening serves as both inspiration and personal therapy.From experimental music techniques to climate consciousness, from creative confidence to the meditative nature of gardening, this episode offers insight into an artist who seamlessly blends multiple passions into a cohesive creative vision.Check out the album on Bandcamp

On this episode of The Sanctuary, Pedro, the electrifying lead singer and guitarist of the band Black Budget, opens up about the band’s origins as a lockdown project, their evolution into a powerhouse trio, and the deep camaraderie that fuels their music.Dive into the desert-punk sound of Black Budget, a thrilling mix of Queens of the Stone Age grit and early Green Day hooks and discover how Pedro crafts melodies that linger in your head for days. He shares the wild story behind their breakout track Whistleblower, inspired by UFO conspiracy theories and government secrecy, and why it’s become a fan favourite live.From landing a deal with King Pizza Records to their love for Toronto’s NXNE Festival (where they’ve become regulars), Pedro dishes on the band’s DIY ethos, their merch creativity (including drummer-made hot sauce!), and big dreams of touring Europe and pressing vinyl.For aspiring artists, Pedro drops golden advice on breaking into festivals and staying genuine in the music scene. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or new to Black Budget’s sound, this episode is a backstage pass to their world—raw, melodic, and full of heart.Pedro Alvarado is the lead vocalist and guitarist of Toronto Desert Punk band Black Budget. The band is known for their raw energy, explosive performances, and haunting guitar riffs.Pedro and Black Budget are part of Brooklyn based label, King Pizza Records. Pedro is also the co-founder of music media platform Critical Zero, which focuses on spotlighting local and touring artists from all over the world.Pedro and Black Budget have performed at some of Toronto's most iconic venues like El Mocambo, Horseshoe Tavern, Sneaky Dee's, and they have opened for legendary punk acts, like Teenage Bottlerocket and The Queers.@blackbudgetlive

In this episode, Jennifer Roe, the executive director of Folk Alliance International, discusses her journey in the folk music industry, the importance of community and networking, and the upcoming Folk Alliance Conference in Montreal.Jennifer shares insights into the organization's mission, the significance of building relationships within the music community, and tips for artists preparing to showcase their work at the conference.The conversation highlights the excitement and opportunities that the conference brings to artists and attendees alike.Jennifer Roe assumed the Executive Director position at Folk Alliance International (FAI) in April 2024 after serving as the Interim Executive Director. She joined the FAI team in 2013 and quickly transitioned into a leadership role managing the staff and contractors and overseeing the day-to-day operations. She worked in partnership with the former Executive Director to help grow the organization, doubling the budget, and stabilizing operations.Jennifer’s career began in Washington, D.C., where she worked on Capitol Hill for the U.S. Senate Majority Leader before transitioning to serve on his Presidential campaign. She continued in the public sector at the Commodity Futures Trading Commission before managing the office of a small lobbying firm. After returning to her roots in Kansas City, Jennifer shifted gears, working with individuals with disabilities and eventually establishing an administrative services business, where FAI became a valued client.Her dedication to the organization reflects her commitment to fostering the rich tapestry of folk music and sustaining a vibrant, interconnected community. With a political background prior to FAI, she is a strong advocate for arts and culture at both federal and state levels.Under Jennifer's guidance, FAI's global network has expanded to include more than 3,000 members—a diverse community of cultural sector entrepreneurs and leaders encompassing artists, record companies, publishers, presenters, agents, managers, arts administrators, diplomats, and more. Under Jennifer’s experienced leadership, the organization will continue to grow in diversity and service of the membership including scholarships, enhancing FAI’s regional chapters, and advocating strongly for the rights and interests of the independent music sector.Find out more @folk_alliance

Lola Loops is a passionate multi-disciplinary artist residing on the unceded and illegally occupied territories of the Squamish, Tsleil-Waututh, and Musqueam Nation, Aka Vancouver, BC. Her journey into the world of performance art began with a simple Hoop, where she found a captivating medium for exploring her body's movements in spiral form. This initial fascination blossomed into a diverse skill set spanning into street and contemporary dance, ritual theatrics, soft acrobatics, dynamic stilt dance, and clowning.Having honed her craft over years of dedicated practice, Lola has cultivated a deep understanding of movement and expression, evident in every captivating performance she delivers. Her artistic endeavours serve as a testament to her unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries and crafting unforgettable experiences for audiences.In addition to her prowess on stage, Lola boasts a wealth of experience behind the scenes in event management and production. Notably, she has played integral roles within production management teams, overseeing diverse staff, conducting casting calls, show curations, auditions and ensuring flawless execution of events from start to finish.A staunch advocate for inclusivity and diversity within the circus community, Lola brings a unique perspective to her work. She is dedicated to fostering environments where all artists feel valued and represented, championing inclusivity at every turn.As the owner, booking manager and performer for Lola Loops Entertainment, Lola seamlessly navigates the intricate world of talent booking and client relations. Her expertise in managing artist profiles, media assets, and promotional materials ensures a polished and professional image for her company.Her impact stretches across borders as she shares her artistry through mesmerizing performances and immersive workshops, both locally and internationally. Renowned for her expertise in contemporary circus-style hoop dancing and expressive choreography, Lolas workshops inspire creativity and forge deep connections with students, solidifying her status as a revered luminary in the global circus community.Beyond her professional endeavours, Lola is deeply entrenched in Vancouver's vibrant arts community. She is a familiar presence on the local scene, gracing stages across the city and collaborating with a diverse array of production companies spanning burlesque, drag, variety, dance, and circus arts. Through these collaborations, Lola has cultivated meaningful connections with fellow artists and creators, contributing to the rich cultural fabric of Vancouver’s artistic landscape.

Bethany is an indie-rock experimenter who sets introspective lyrics against innovative instrumentation, resulting in music that stirs and swings in equal measure. As a longtime member of Halifax’s venerable music scene, Bethany has led multiple outfits, wielding a Jaguar in art-rock bands and breaking it down neo-soul style in her solo project Shadow, which released a pair of concept EPs (The Dark/The Dawn) in 2019. She’s a road veteran who has charted on college radio, performed with orchestras, and travelled the Canadian festival circuit. She's re-emerging from a time of creativity and introspection for a full-length album released, for the first time, under her given name. Recorded with her longtime band Andrew Jackson and Andrew MacKelvie (the horn section) and Casey Thompson and Shane Martin (the rhythm section), the eight songs on Handwritten Notes find Bethany moving thrillingly between guitar and piano. The songs search, reflect and question, with outcomes ranging from satisfied to resolute to unrequited. Stories told with the wisdom of experience (and a dynamic vocal range). Bethany is a journey of the heart. Check her out @bethany.hfx

Papa started in Public Health as a volunteer HIV and STI tester, counsellor and PrEP navigator at an outreach centre in the heart of downtown Denver, CO around fifteen years ago. He quickly became known as a safe space for LGBTQIA+ people, and people that practiced alternative sexualities such as non-monogamy and BDSM/Kink.Throughout his career Papa Bear has worked in HIV and STI Prevention for AIDS Service Organizations and Federally Qualified Health Centers, managed a State Health Department's HIV prevention program, and is currently contracted by the CDC to provide Capacity Building Assistance and education to health departments, medical providers, outreach workers, and other HIV and STI stakeholders across the country.He was honoured to present on the unique sexual healthcare needs of people who practice BDSM/Kink to the public health community at an international conference in Washington D.C. in 2023 and 2024. Papa Bear has made it his personal mission to bring sex-positive, stigma-free, sexual health education to the BDSM/Kink Community as well as other often overlooked minority sexual communities while also being a political advocate protecting our right to be who we are.

Andrew Moyes, the VP of Fan Expo, discusses the preparation and highlights of the upcoming Fan Expo event.In this episode of the podcast, we cover topics such as the logistics of organizing the event, the involvement of key partners, the two buildings of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, the importance of the app for attendees, Andrew Moyes' background and role in Fan Expo, the role of volunteers, and what fans can expect at the event.FAN EXPO Canada (August 22 - 24, 2024) is the largest comics, sci-fi, horror, anime, and gaming event in Canada and the third-largest Pop Culture event in North America. The show has grown from a small comic book convention attracting 1,500 fans into a multi-faceted and multiple-day citywide event that attracts hundreds of thousands of people from around the world.Every year, FAN EXPO Canada offers exciting family-friendly attractions, events, and world-renowned celebrities! Previous guests include Stan Lee, Patrick Stewart, Buzz Aldrin, William Shatner, Christopher Lloyd, Elijah Wood, Leonard Nimoy, Carrie Fisher, Gillian Anderson, and stars from hit television shows: The Walking Dead, Star Trek, The Vampire Diaries, Arrow, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Teen Wolf, Doctor Who, Gotham, Criminal Minds, Castle, and many, many more.The all-ages pop culture convention expects to host over 125,000 fans in 750,000 sq. ft. of the Metro Toronto Convention Centre for the four-day event.