Welcome with Karim Kanji
Welcome is a series of in depth conversations with interesting people doing interesting things.
Episodes
Rik Emmett discusses his latest poetry collection and the artistic process behind it, including the themes of resilience, humility, and “leaning into” life’s challenges. Reflecting on writing during the pandemic, he shares candid thoughts on technology’s double-edged impact, the erosion of human connection, and his concerns about modern society—while still holding onto optimism and purpose through art.
The conversation also explores...
On this episode of “My First Joke,” host Karim Kanji welcomes Toronto-based comedian John Mostyn for an honest and hilarious conversation about the journey into stand-up comedy. John shares how moving from Glasgow to Canada—and overcoming social anxiety—set him on a path to the stage. He recounts his early days in comedy, the nerves of performing for small crowds, and the gradual transition to making comedy a full-time career.
John ...
In this episode, comedian Nitish Sakhuja joins us for an open and insightful conversation about his path in stand-up comedy. Nitish reflects on his personal health journey during the pandemic, the challenges and surprises of performing virtual shows, and how he found his comedic voice through years of experience. He shares stories from Toronto’s unique “weed show” scene, discusses the realities of moving to Los Angeles for greater ...
In this episode, Karim Kanji sits down with Toronto comedian Ernie Vicente for an insightful and entertaining conversation about the journey from everyday life to the comedy stage. Ernie shares how a college presentation and a viral wedding video inspired him to pursue stand-up, and reflects on the nerves and excitement of his first open mic experiences.
The discussion covers Ernie’s evolution as a comic—from experimenting with one-...
In this episode, Karim Kanji sits down with comedian Nick Reynoldson for a candid and entertaining look at Nick’s two-decade journey in stand-up comedy. Nick shares how he stumbled into comedy through Humber’s writing and performance program, discovering his passion during a three-minute set at Yuk Yuk's. He reflects on the thrill of immediate audience feedback and the creative freedom that drew him to stand-up.Nick recounts hi...
Marc Jordan discussed his biography, “Rhythm of My Heart,” with Karim Kanji, highlighting the collaborative process with author Don Breithaupt and reflecting on his personal experiences, including challenges with dyslexia and substance use that shaped his artistic journey.
He shared stories from his early performances at The Gasworks, emphasizing its significance in his career and expressing concerns about the current viability of m...
Almost two years ago I had the opportunity to chat with Ben Johnson.
In this episode, Karim Kanji connects with legendary Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson for a candid and reflective conversation.
From there, the conversation turns to the world of track and field. Ben expresses his deep skepticism about the current state of the sport, raising questions about athlete performance, industry transparency, and the authenticity of co...
Former Barenaked Ladies frontman Steven Page joins Gregg Tilston and Karim Kanji to talk creativity, collaboration, and the stories behind his latest projects. From the making of Explosive Hits Vol. 1 with the Trans Canada Highwaymen, to singing “Hallelujah” at Jack Layton’s memorial, to rediscovering music during lockdown — Steven opens up about the moments that shaped him. He even performs live. A must-listen for Canadian music f...
On this episode, Karim and his son, Kahzmir, hit record during a drive to chat about the Toronto Blue Jays’ 2025 season — the good, the bad, and the downright confusing. From big-name signings that didn’t pan out to surprising breakout moments, the two dig into what went wrong, what went right, and what gives them hope for next year.
Between laughs, mini-rants, and a few serious fan takes, their conversation captures what it means t...
In 2023, I had the opportunity to speak with John "Gibby" Gibbons. As the Blue Jays play for the 2025 World Series against the LA Dodgers, I thought I would share this episode with all of you.
We talked about:
- Two WS rings with Braves and 1986 Mets
- Getting umps to throw John out
- World Baseball Classic (Ohtani and Trout)
- One of John’s good friends, JP Ricciardi – disliked in Toronto among the fan base. Why does JP get a bad...
After more than a decade behind the mic, I’ve been thinking about why I still do this — why I keep podcasting after all these years, through so many changes in the media world. In this solo episode, I look back at my journey: from recording my very first show in a basement studio in Mississauga to hosting Welcome with Karim Kanji, Welcome to the Music, My First Joke, and Lost Venues.
It all started 16 years ago on a flight home from...
After a short hiatus, Welcome with Karim Kanji is back! 🎙️
In this comeback episode, Karim reflects on his 10+ years of podcasting, the many projects he’s launched along the way — from Welcome to the Music to My First Joke — and what’s next for the Welcome feed. He shares updates on his passion projects, including the upcoming Lost Venues series and his new adventures in stand-up comedy.
Expect candid conversations, spontaneous solo...
This is my showcase set from May 13, 2025.It was held at the Comedy Bar on Bloor Street in Toronto.Thanks to @ComedyBarMax and my instructor, John Mostyn.
I finally got on stage and faced my fears! Here's my "first joke". Told on stage at the Danforth Comedy Bar in Toronto. March 10th, 2025.
Thanks to my instructor, Rebecca Reeds and all the other students.
Carlos Yance is my next guest on My First Joke. Carlos is a comedian based in Scarborough. He can be found at comedy clubs and shows across the city. He is very funny and is always repping Scarborough.
Visit Carlos Yance on Instagram to keep up to date on where he’s performing next!
Every great laugh starts with one brave joke. Join me on My First Joke, where comedians share the hilarious, awkward, and inspiring stories behind their first time on stage. From bombing to bringing the house down, we dig into the journeys of today’s funniest people.
You can subscribe here:
Whether you’re a comedy superfan or just need a good laugh, this podcast delivers punchli...
Welcome to to the podcast, Harry Rios. Summary: We discussed Harry's musical style, which combines Latin music and New Orleans jazz, and reflected on his upbringing in New Orleans. Harry emphasized the unique appreciation for live music in his hometown compared to other places, such as Florida. He shared his journey into music, highlighting the influence of his musical household and the challenges he faced with music theory, whic...
In this episode, track and field legend Ben Johnson joins Karim Kanji for an unfiltered discussion on the highs and lows of his career, the controversies that have shaped his life, and his thoughts on the current state of athletics.
Ben shares his skepticism about the authenticity of the sport and calls for a new generation of athletes to take the reins. He reflects on the intense demands placed on elite sprinters and the sho...
Welcome back to another exciting episode of "Welcome with Karim Kanji." This time, we had the pleasure of hosting the dynamic duo, Jemeni and Mark Strong, who will be gracing our screens with their show "Fear of Missing Olympics" (Olympic FOMO) during the CBC Paris Olympics coverage.
Our conversation kicked off with a sneak peek into their upcoming show. While the full details are still under wraps, Jemeni ...
**Welcome to the Music: Gene Champagne**
Join Karim Kanji as he sits down with Gene Champagne, a renowned musician known for his work with the Killjoys, Teenage Head, and his solo projects.
Gene shares insights into his illustrious music career and his latest EP, reminiscing about iconic lost music venues and their impact on his journey. He delves into his creative process, revealing his love for early 70s power pop and ...
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