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“When we pass over to the other side, we become everything, we become one with all. All the traditions, this connects back to the phrase ‘I and I’, . . .I (the individual self) am a part of divinity connected to the Larger Self, all traditions speak about this, I am physical and I am spiritual. . ..I AM, I AM.” -SL After a long hiatus, due to personal and professional circumstances in Robert’s life, Episode 42 of QuestHands returns with the highest dose of Spirit & Love. This long awaited episode for the first time in Questhands history varies away from the structure to pay tribute to Sydney Jo Miller (July 4th 1994 - September 13th 2017). Beloved daughter, sister, friend, dancer, model, artist, teacher, mentor and even QuestHands co-host of Episode 26. Whichever role she played in your life, she was bound to illuminate it with her colourful personality. While dancing on Royal Caribbean’s Quantum of the Seas in 2016, Robert had the honour to meet, dance and explore Asia with Sydney. They were like Tigger and Pooh. Her yang to his yin. Robert being Canadian, with a lifestyle of yoga, meditation and veganism. While Sydney from North Carolina, USA, over a decade younger, a louder, fearless, rockstar beauty. They connected through their love of animals, efficiency, ice cream, avocados and well, life. With Sydney’s passing coinciding with September’s Suicide Awareness Month and October’s Mental Health Awareness Month, Robert decided to include these key topics in the spotlight to help shed stigmas. “I don’t want to be remembered for me as an individual, ‘she did this’ or ‘she was that’. What I want to leave behind are the teachings, alive and living in others. So they can carried forward.” -SLJoining Robert in this powerful conversation is Sandi Loytomaki. Who Robert couldn’t think of a  more suitable person to dialogue and offer their light on. Robert and Sandi are celebrating 1 decade of friendship after meeting through their 3HO Kundalini Yoga Teachers Training. Besides being a fellow yogi, Sandi is one of Robert’s greatest inspirations for all matters human and Spirit. It was from a very young age that she always wanted to help not only people and all living beings. She is a teacher and someone who is dedicated to carrying on the ways of her ancestors, and accessing indigenous medicine way lineage.  She is very clear to have it be known that her wisdom shared is not about her, but simply Universal principals that she is a vehicle to offer to us as a whole.“I have something new to learn everyday, and the day that I don’t learn something new, is the day that it is my time to return home.” -SLTogether Robert and Sandi listen to some of Sydney’s thoughts, then reflect further on what resonates with them. This conversation builds into rich offerings for all, especially regarding mental health, the essence of life and death, Spirit and our true nature. “Where did this voice come from in me, why is that voice there? Do I want to choose to keep that part of me present? Or is it time that this part of me dies and returns to Source? So I can birth something new out of myself?” -SLIt is an amazing ‘Law of Attraction’ how Sydney got to explore her ancestry in Korea, while she celebrated her passion. This was quite symbolic for Sandi to hear as she has constantly been exploring her ancestry and identity. Where theres a will, theres a way. Be it of medicine or athleticism. She had the opportunity to study and work in Finland which was a profound experience.“Because we are physical and spiritual beings we can go anywhere at anytime, we can meet anyone at anytime. So I can go into an altered state of consciousness and I can communicate with my ancestors, I can communicate with my family that is present in the physical world at this time, I can communicate with other elders in different places of the world. And it’s just the way we are wired. I like to say, ‘It’s just the way we are hardwired and softwired’. I don’t need a cellphone to do that, I don’t need internet to do that.” -SLSandi speaks clearly and slowly for us all to grasp some understanding on the various topics. Truly a humble Guru here to serve and friend to all. A wonderful concept she explained is ‘Hardwire’ & ‘Softwire’. Hardwired is the way our neurology (neurones, cells, nerves) is set up in the body. While Softwired is of vibrations, intuition development and Soul knowing. Some valuable self development tools were shared, such as free flow speaking, journalling or a creative art project. Sandi encouraged us to develop our ‘witnessing ability’. To remember to go back, to read and listen where these aspects of ourselves are coming from. To live with intent, to feel and experience yourself to move things. “Our internal cleansing waters, the tears that happen when we grieve, that many cultures and traditions want to restrain or withhold or must happen within a certain timeframe. In the west there is all these conditions with whether you should cry or shouldn’t cry and when you should cry or shouldn’t cry, and if you cry too much you are weak or if you cry at all you are weak, depending on what gender you are or where you are. We never hear how beautiful and wonderful crying is and how cleansing it is and how positive it is. And how the tears of sadness are just as wonderful as the tears of joy.” -SLSydney speaks on her cleansing shower ritual which Sandi clarified and affirmed how she was not just cleansing her physical being, but all aspects of her being to lay the intent of returning to original essence. Sandi also shared great knowledge around humans being composed of up to 74% water and the importance of our internal and external plumbing systems. For our blood to move properly within for nutrients to be absorbed and for our toxins and wastes to get out.  How when you cleanse you are making space for something nourishing, and to be mindful of that. If not then the harmonic resonance of what was dominantly there before will return.“I no longer have a bucket list, my bucket list is to live truly, madly, deeply, fully, completely, every moment of every day that I am alive. So every morning I wake up, that’s my quest.” -SLSandi speaks holistically on death and of personal choices to leave Earth. These are taboo topics for us, especially in societies where religious, cultural and medical ideologies are enforced but not questioned. There is lots of talk around prolonging life and staying away from death. However by putting all this aside, if we just look at death as another aspect of life; individually coming in as a vibration form, a soul journey that no one knows but that soul itself. Then really, who are we to judge what that soul chooses? For it is all about the experience, the evolution, learning and growth.“If you don’t have a foundation, it is very difficult to build a house, particularly in certain areas of the world. The same thing happens with our consciousness. We can’t build a higher consciousness without a foundation”. -SLNo ‘Weekly Quest’ was needed as Sandi offered multiple invitations for our conscious growth. Sandi challenges us to take at least 1 thing from what we have heard and take it out into action in your life. To plant seeds with ourselves to look at these topics with a different perspective. When Robert asked her, ‘How can we connect and communicate with loved ones who have passed over?’ Sandi, wants us to focus first into connecting with yourself. To call out to them and allow yourself to feel their presence.“I am extremely grateful for this opportunity to share, and these teachings are not my teachings, these teachings come from the elders, these teachings come from the Universe, these teachings are humanities teachings, I just happen to be a vehicle that has worked hard to remember them and has the desire to carry them forward.” -SL*Music featured throughout this QuestHands podcast is by Dj Shiva  www.iamdjshiva.comTUNE IN NEXT TIME FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“I had a really well known guru author once tell me, 'Don’t label yourself as Spiritual Artist, don't go down this path that you have gone'. He said, 'you are spiritual, just make music. Just make music.' ” -SSIt has been quite a few months without a fresh episode release due to the fullness of life evolving and expanding for host Robert. However it was worth the wait for the special guest we had. Someone who provides a very important aspect to the QuestHands show. This Episode features Sarah Shivarani, more commonly known as Shiva or DJ Shiva. Ring a bell? Yes! Her music is featured and sampled throughout the podcast. She is Iranian, born in England, raised in Florida and currently lives in Los Angeles. “It dawned on me that oh, I did this to myself, and it woke me up and snapped me out of this negative spiral I was in; and my life took a turn at that point in my life.” -SSShiva was constantly inviting me to visit her in LA, however with Robert’s cruise ship contracts and unpredictable freelance life; as well as not being based in Toronto for over a decade, he encouraged her to visit Toronto, Canada. He was light about it, having that fun ‘daydreaming’ energy to the desire, as she had never been yet. Well who woulda thunk what proceeded next. Shiva was invited to play a set on one of the outdoor stages at this years Toronto Pride Festival.“I had to make this music that has been calling me since I was a child” -SSThis manifestation was truly remarkable and a perfect example of ‘Law of Attraction’. Robert and Shiva met at an Abraham Hicks Law of Attraction Cruise 4 years ago where they only spent a few hours physically engaging through a dance party and chatting briefly afterward. Their resonance was enough to desire to keep in touch through the cosmos and cyberspace. Shiva did not even submit a proposal or application to perform in Toronto. IT JUST HAPPENED. . .“The more you can chill out the better, thats the funny part, the work is chilling out” -SSShiva was happy and tickled with alignment with certain numerology patterns occurring with the ‘Number 5’. This being the 41st episode, thus 4+1 = 5. Her birthday was also a few days later where she turned 32, and 3+2= 5. She also got #5 on the ‘QuestWheel’. The number 5 is the most dynamic and energetic of all the single-digit numbers. It is unpredictable, always in motion and constantly in need of change. Although it is molded from an almost equal mix of masculine and feminine qualities, in general the 5 is slightly more feminine -- albeit a daring, tomboyish kind of feminine, with nothing demure or submissive about her. Perfect for this time and space in Shiva’s life, especially how numerically the name ‘Shiva’ is also a 5.“But really, what it really means on a deeper level is, Joy. I want to feel joyful wherever I am at, and I know that the more that I feel that, the easier the other things will roll on in. So really the immediate success is, am i having fun today no matter what happens, did i enjoy myself, was i nice to myself?” -SSRobert and Shiva seized this unique opportunity to not only catch up as friends but to artistically collaborate in live performance seeing they are both performing artists. It been a tiring yet profoundly multidimensional enriching experience for them both. Truly spiritual siblings as mirrors to each other. The fullest of days balancing, brainstorming, rehearsals, performing, taking voguing class with Iconic Leyomi, attending a Vogue Ball, visiting family, being a tourist, recording this podcast, and somehow eating and sleeping a bit. Total ‘Carpe Diem’ of seizing the day. “Love it in the becoming, love it as its growing. It is constantly evolving and the more we can love it where it is, the faster it can evolve into something better, which incorporates self acceptance and unconditional love. -SSShiva is committed to conscious living yet is forever a playful child seeking out the fun and joy in her experiences. She always knew she wanted music in her life and continues to have generous unique ideas in how to share music as meditation and medicine for us all to receive. It will be exciting to hear and experience her next level of expansion and future collaborations with Robert and his creative collective, ‘House of D.A.M.’This episode marks the first one featuring a fellow ‘Abrahamster’ (someone who follows the teachings of Abraham Hicks as both Robert and Shiva do).You can listen, support and follow Shiva through her Official Website or jump directly to your favourite social media accounts below:www.iamdjshiva.comINSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/djshivaTWITTER: https://twitter.com/iamDJShivaSOUNDCLOUD: https://soundcloud.com/iamdjshivaiTUNES for her 2 EP’s ‘Dark Moon’ & ‘The Art of Allowing’: https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/shiva/id193386570About Abraham Hicks: http://www.abraham-hicks.com/lawofattractionsource/about_abraham.phpThe theme of this ‘Weekly Quest’ is CAREER. Fine tune your focus. Think about the one thing, that if you did every day for a year, would absolutely take you to the next level in your career! Not 3 things or 5 things, but 1 thing. Once you have decided this one thing, create a time block for that one thing. Whether it is 10 mins or 1 hour or 90 mins, a focus block, put away all distractions. Put your laptop off wifi, your phone in another room and you set your timer. Dedicate yourself to that focus block as if you were having a meeting with someone. Take your meeting with yourself just as seriously. Dedicate yourself and your time to that one thing you said you were going to do!*Music featured throughout this QuestHands podcast is by Dj Shivawww.iamdjshiva.comTUNE IN NEXT TIME FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“Somebody once said there is no bad clay, there are are only bad potters. But I counter that by saying, ‘No there is bad clay, but a bad potter doesn’t know the difference between good and bad clay”. -SGThis Episode features Susan Gold who is part of QuestHands history being the first direct blood relation to a previous show’s guest. Marimba Gold-Watts from Episode 36 is Susan’s daughter. Just like where Marimba lives in NYC, Susan is from the east coast but has been in San Francisco for 44 years now. She worked for The San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) as a Teacher for 25 years, sneaking Art into English and History whenever she could.“I started out as an art teacher, but soon found out that I could do more art if I wasn't directly teaching arts. So I taught english and history and incorporated a tremendous amount of arts into my curriculum. And also I found that the art of teaching is an art form. It’s a genuine art form and you are an entertainer. You are on a stage with your students.” -SGLocated in Golden Gate Park lies The Sharon Arts Studio where Susan currently spends all her time as an Independent Ceramic Artist and studio teacher. She has been part of this building and community for 21 years. You could say she found home. Some people feel she does indeed live there for the amount of hours which she puts in. From all her years of sculpting with her hands she has no problem opening bottles and jars at home. Susan also shares some interesting general information about sculpting in regards to the ratio of male to female, countries and traditions. This episode was actually recorded in one of the classrooms that Susan teaches in, which made Robert happy for being in such a creative artistic space.“It can’t be just San Francisco that changes, it has to be more wide spread because if there is a more widespread community here, we will get more and more people who come here to take advantage of that support (understandably) and then the whole burden of support will come onto us (San Fran) as oppose to other cities.” -SGIt was fun for Robert to observe how aspects of Susan reminded him of his friend Marimba. She also reminded Robert of his own mom. Both these woman truly grateful to travel the world and see different countries and cultures due to where their ambitious children were living through studies or employment at the time. A favourite place Susan got to see was Cape Town, South Africa, which she described as a similar city to San Francisco but on steroids in comparison to the characteristics.“I wish that people can overcome their prejudice, their narrowness, their fears and reach out to one another in a beautiful natural peaceful way” -SGSusan is a friendly, responsible, diverse teacher, mother and artist. It was humbling of her to reveal that her greatest strength is also her greatest weakness ‘Perseverance’. As sometimes we humans need to know when to stop trying and let go. Susan loves spreading enthusiasm and sharing in the pleasures of her students discoveries.“When some obstacle comes up I don’t think, oh it’s all over, this is the end. You know, I think, I’ll get through that and then there will be another one around the corner to overcome.” -SG (reflecting on her Father’s phrase: ‘That’s life, one thing after another’)To check out and purchase some of Susan’s art visit: http://www.susangoldceramics.comYou can follow her on Instagram too: https://www.instagram.com/susangoldceramics/The theme of this ‘Weekly Quest’ is HEALTH. Make sure to exercise but don’t overdo it. Eat lots of greens, yes kale really is good for you. Be conscious with your body, check in with your body as often as you can. See where you are holding tension in your body and let it go.*Music featured throughout this QuestHands podcast is by Dj Shiva www.iamdjshiva.comTUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“Just take a beat to think about what’s next”. -KBThis Episode features the multifaceted artist and visionaire Kyle Banks. What is interesting is that Kyle was scheduled to be featured on Episode 3 a year ago when Robert was visiting his sister (who Kyle worked with), however something shifted on the day. All in perfect timing, life offered another blessed moment in time. Here they are in San Francisco, city of diverse free thinking and forward values.“Even if something negative is happening to me, just trying to understand why it is happening, what is happening and how I can grow from it is a positive take on a negative situation. It makes life easier to deal with.” -KBKyle is deep. No really. Besides his introspective conscious reflections on the human psyche and how we interact with one another, he is vocally a ‘Bass’. At the time of the recording he was in The Lion King US Touring Cast. A show he was able to be part of in Las Vegas and Broadway. An actor, singer and dancer (at heart), Kyle is a multifaceted person with many skills and passions. He testified to be blessed to be doing exactly what he wants. Born and raised in New Orleans, Louisiana; he carries that southern slower chill charm. Robert was enwrapped in Kyle’s chill vibe and resonated on similar values and opinions, especially the need for greater awareness and open dialogue on our mental health. He also had a nice clear reflection on how ‘hard work’ is healthy when it’s inspired by ones passion.“I used to try to block out these huge segments of time where I would meditate for 10 mins and try to keep my mind from drifting off to anywhere but it is really not what it is all about. It is about just finding that inner peace even if it is for 10 seconds, just that awareness.” -KBKyle used his hands a few times throughout the episode to offer himself subtle ‘golf clap’ applauses. He can he silly but more so beholds the traits of courage, sensitivity, freedom of expression and compassionate love. His family and friends are important to him, along with his openess to meet new people. He is a very patient person and is learning to demonstrate that more with himself these days.“When I think about the wealth of friendship I think about friends that accept me for who I am without judgement. They allow me to be who I am and I feel it does not come with any expectations. I can always tell when it is authentic.” -KBThe beautiful thorn in his side is due to his work founding, creating and sustaining a new platform called, ‘The Tenth Magazine’ along with co-founders Andre Jones and Khary Septh. A project of collaboration facilitated by many it is an art and culture publication that documents the history, ideas and aesthetics of the Black LGBTQ community. Finally an exciting outlet in having a space to come together as artists, intellects and thinkers contributing back to our own community. Even more profound to take back control of the images that are being portrayed in media and other publications usually by white men. To take back the power and tell honest stories. It is the most fulling work of Kyle’s life to date. He is building it to be a successfuland sustainable project as he departs The Lion King Production. In 2017 their vision is to expand with more digital content, film and partnerships with Slay Television.  Robert has put it out there to collaborate one day, especially with Robert’s passion of Vogue and how it influenced the name of the Tenth Magazine. You can find ‘The Tenth Magazine’ in bookstores and newsstands throughout the USA and soon the world. For more information on this exciting venture check out:http://thetenthmagazine.comhttps://www.instagram.com/thetenthzine/https://twitter.com/thetenthzine https://www.facebook.com/thetenthzine/?fref=ts“When you can stand where you are and find joy, that is the ultimate success.” -KBThe theme of this ‘Weekly Quest’ is ROMANCE. There is no better why than to start welcoming love into your life than by starting with yourself. Date yourself. Love yourself. Explore yourself. Often Romance is starting right into our face but we cannot recognize it. When you are more in tune with who you are you will be more aware of similar energies around you.*Music featured throughout this QuestHands podcast is by Dj Shivawww.iamdjshiva.comTUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“I think that success comes when you really know who you are. If you don’t know how to control your mind or know how to control your mind, your thoughts, or what this body means, this spirit means; then you are not successful.” -RK  This episode is only the 2nd one to be recorded in Canada. It occurred in a very unique creative building, The Dovercourt House. A symbolic place for host Robert having obtained his Kundalini Yoga Certification and rehearsals with the Canadian renown Kajea d’Dance Company. Rakesh Sukesh is featured in this episode. He was born in Kerala, a tropical lush southern part of India and is currently based in Switzerland. “I don’t like cities. I am more a nature guy. I like both water and mountains. Where there is nature, where there is lush, there is life, where there is growth. Where I can feel the energy of the core of this planet. Not a concrete surface.” -RSHe started out predominately as a Bollywood dancer in entertainment and media then later trained in Bangalore with more contemporary styles, yoga and martial arts. It was here that he was introduced to Kalaripayattu, an ancient traditional martial art form that rigorously trains the body and mind. Rakesh later started to travel to Europe as a performer but had passport challenges being hired. “Kalari means ‘space’ and Payatt means ‘activity’, so it is the activity that happens in s space. I call the technique Payatt Intransit, ‘the activity in transit, always going somewhere.” -RSRakesh predominately teaches now across the world a fusion genre which he calls Payatt Intransit; a contemporary movement method using Kalaripayattu—a martial art from South India—combining contemporary movement techniques, yoga and energy works. His teaching emphasizes the intricacy of movement to get to the core of the mind/body connection, and enable a more fluid expression. A school in Montreal brought him to Canada and this is how he had the opportunity to come to Toronto.“i always say in my class for example, I cannot know myself without seeing another person. Imagine if you are in a room that is completely empty and you grew up there your whole life. You would not even know you are a human being until you see another human being. So I think all the things we see around is a point of reference for us to know what I am. That I why I say that every one brings a mirror for you.” -RSRakesh comes from a family where they follow ancient spiritual knowledge. He feels he carries this rich depth in his DNA as well as inserts it into his creative work. Rakesh is a wise man with a youthful playful charm. He feels truly alive when he is teaching, like a vessel transmitting what he perceives from life to others. “I am talking about more the root of yoga, trying to find the union with things inside and around you. Or try to recognize the union that is actually happening from things inside and around you. I am very much interested in this and I come from a family where we discuss this. This would be our coffee conversation where we discuss this. We don’t consider these things ‘deep’, we should be thinking about these things everyday. You’re breathing, you’re alive and if you are not thinking about that what else would you think about is my question.” -RSRakesh is one of those humble beings that you feel comfortable being around within a few minutes. There is a compassionate, non-judgemental energy he carries. It is truly timeless. He states that his strength is in his desire to know more, not for selfish knowledgable accumulations but in regards to whatever will help him dive deeper and know this life more. He shared so many great reminders with us from letting go and the continual journey towards happiness.“Somehow I don't associate myself with the space around me, because I move every second or third week to a new space. So I guess I enjoy my company, and me, myself in my body, and so it’s great everywhere.” -RS“i think we can re-alter our entire being with our imagination, but it probably doesn't happen over night or even in 10 years. Maybe over many civilizations it can transform.” -RS“When I say ‘teachers’ I don’t mean just the people that taught me in a classroom. I find a conversation can be a teacher, an object could be a teacher, a colour could be a teacher, anything could be a teacher.” -RS“My work has nothing to do with implying my way of thinking. My work is asking them to look at themselves” -RSRakesh shared with us one of his spiritual teachers who provides tools we can all apply to our lives. Sadhguru is a well articulated person from india who is not vague or superficial. He is quite clear and constructive offering confirmations in the choices we make in life as well as good reminders.http://isha.sadhguru.orgRakesh also encouraged us at minimum to sit quietly for 15 mins a day and to drink water out of a copper glass.You can check out Rakesh’s Payatt INtransit as well as see where he is teaching next here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=54oBGtlloGkhttps://www.facebook.com/Payatt-INtransit-1448888612042264/The theme of this ‘Weekly Quest’ is FAMILY. To spend a week with a grandparent or elder and listen to their life experience. They carry wisdom of a whole life they lived. You don’t need to believe in what they say, just listen to it.*Music featured throughout this QuestHands podcast is by Dj Shiva www.iamdjshiva.comTUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“There is this word ‘neshama’ which is hebrew for ‘breath/breathing’. נְשִׁימָה. It is almost like when someone is a part of you. When you are breathing they are part of your very being. When I think of romance I think of this word which can also be applied to friends and family too.” -EYThis episode features one of Robert’s coolest and most admirable friends, Elaine Young. They met during Frosh Week to welcome the new eager students at the University of Toronto almost 2 decades ago. Elaine is many things, for this event she was the Event Conceptual Organizer bringing together music, design, dance, theatre and fashion. “At 23 I thought that everything I learnt, I had to unlearn and begin again. But at 23 you have had enough going on to know what you need to forget.” - EYIt is wonderful to have friends that through the thick and thin, dark and light years, they remain. Elaine is this person to Robert. Where respect, inspiration, joy and jokes all meet. “I’m grateful for having happy problems. Some people have some real problems. I mean I have all my limbs, I can speak, I can breathe properly, I could go to yoga this morning, I got off a plane yesterday. I have very happy problems” -EYElaine is a globetrotter having lived abroad in Europe and Asia for many years. She now finds herself in NYC attending the New York University Gallatin School of Individualized Study, close to completing her Masters. Robert is happy about this as Toronto and NYC are just an hour flight apart. However she has learned to be adaptable and realizes that home is wherever she is.“I tell people how it is very important for my body to take me for a walk, and allow it to do what it needs to do without it being disconnected from my mind. I really need to do that, because it makes me harmonize. I think being physical is important”. -EYThree key words that describe Elaine’s passionate focuses are the arts, sciences and fashion. She naturally is a curious cat and is excited to almost be done school. This will allow her more time and freedom to get back to the lab, to creatively cook up stuff and seeing what manifests. “Reaching infinitely higher than you want to be, or think you can be. Even if all else fails, you have still gone half that much, because you went for it, you went for the pinnacle.” -EYShe wants to be remembered for creating and loving ‘Critical Beauty’ and is reaching for more purposeful matching creativity with social change in a humanitarian way. Scientific images related to life such as cells, viruses and micro-biotic stuff reflecting parallels in us and the universe fuel her work. Forever curious yet calculated, grounded yet a dreamer.“Just cause you can, doesn't mean you should. I think No is a really important thing to understand.” -EYThings that are important to her and she wanted to share:BLACK MIRROR Netflix Series: This sci-fi anthology series explores a twisted, high-tech near-future where humanity's greatest innovations and darkest instincts collide. https://www.netflix.com/ca/title/70264888BBC’s PLANET EARTH DOCUMENTARIES: Dazzling, state-of-the-art high-definition imagery highlights this breathtaking documentary series featuring footage of some of the world's most awe-inspiring natural wonders -- from the oceans to the deserts to the polar ice caps. http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p02544td MANUFACTURED LANDSCAPES: This documentary reveals the gritty underside of industrial landscapes. Photographer Edward Burtynsky explores the subtle beauty amid the waste generated by slag heaps, dumps and factories. Memorable scenes include a Chinese iron factory where employees are berated to produce faster, and shots of children playing atop piles of dangerous debris. The contrasts between wealth and poverty are most striking in Shanghai, with new high-rises towering above old slums. http://www.edwardburtynsky.com/site_contents/Films/Manufactured_Landscapes_Film.html PRESS PAUSE PLAY: The digital revolution of the last decade has unleashed creativity and talent in an unprecedented way, with unlimited opportunities. But does democratized culture mean better art or is true talent instead drowned out? This is the question addressed by PressPausePlay, a documentary film containing interviews with some of the world's most influential creators of the digital era.https://vimeo.com/channels/presspauseplaySIDEWAYS: Sideways Film is a documentary and factual sales agency established in 2010 that specialises in worldwide Broadcast, All Rights, Digital, Educational and in-flight licensing. We work closely with our filmmakers to ensure that every title offers a unique perspective and gets the attention it deserves. http://www.sidewaysfilm.com/about/About Elaine’s creative focus and work:The LAByrinth brand is inspired by the invention of the telescope and microscope, how it revolutionized the way we see the World and made it possible to observe phenomena previously invisible to the naked-eye, forever changing what we know as our visible landscape. The name LAByrinth is a combination of two meanings: LAB [abbreviation for laboratory], a place dedicated to scientific discovery and experimentation; and labyrinth, an intricate structure similar to DNA and a metaphor for the intricacies of Nature, that is composed of interconnecting passages, split paths and dead ends requiring decoding in order to understand its logic.www.LAB-yrinth.net www.instagram.com/LabyrinthprojectThe theme of this ‘Weekly Quest’ is HEALTH. To source all your groceries this week locally. To know where they are all coming from. And/OR for all the meals you make this week to be made with no processed ingredients.*Music featured throughout this QuestHands podcast is by Dj Shiva www.iamdjshiva.comTUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“I think that we have the opportunity to move forward and choose people to be in your life who can be your family. Who have the same values that you do. Who also help you create a sense of awareness that kind of constantly allows you to lift up and not feel pessimistic about yourself and about the state of the world. I think that it is very important to almost choose your family and define what you want it to be, so that you can move forward in life. Rather than letting yourself be stuck in relationships with people who do not allow you to move forward.” -MGWThis episode is the first one recorded back on land, as Robert’s time in Asia on the Quantum of the Seas has reached it’s completion. The irony for this Canadian host is that once again this episode (and it’s guest) are from the United States of America. Besides this episode being special as the first one back on land, it is special for the reason that Robert had the chance to reunite and interview a dear friend who is like a sister to him. Marimba Gold-Watts was born and raised in San Francisco, California but has been based in NYC for over 15 years now. Robert and Marimba met many moons ago at the legendary Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre. They travelled, taught and performed all around America in the second company, ‘Ailey 2’. “Even though we were making such minimal amounts of money, it was amazing to bring art and culture to all these people who really have never had this exposure. So there was no wealth and yet there was a tremendous amount of wealth culturally in what we were doing and we were experiencing as artists.” -MGWIt was quite lethargic being back in NYC and reminiscing with her about these experiences when hope and dreams were fuel to an energetic pace of living. Marimba’s spin on the QuestWheel landed on ‘Wealth’. She shared how during our company days we were making only $230 a week before tax deductions and had to pay for rent and food from that. We were living off beans and rice, cooking in hotel rooms off a hot pot almost burning the place down with smoke alarms going off. We also slept 3 to a room to save money here and there. Yet with all these challenges, the wealth of purpose through art and cultural shared in the various marginalized communities we visited, satisfied the blood, sweat and tears.“I am someone who wants other people to succeed.”                   -MGWThe day of this recording it was a sensitive strange day post the US elections. An exhausted grey energy and overcast consumed the city. I’ve never seen NYC this way. We met and recorded this episode in midtown manhattan at Marimba’s bodywork studio which she shares with her husband and his martial arts acupuncture practice. Marimba is a Pilates Teacher, Dance Teacher and Bio Dynamic Cranial Sacrum Therapist. Her company is called ‘Articulating Body’. For being in Manhattan, this studio was charged with a harmonious energy and calm. What was really exciting is that one of the most popular podcasts in the world is recorded in this exact same building just 3 more floors up, ‘This American Life’; who's episodes are downloaded by over 2 million listeners at a time. Hopefully their success will rub off on QuestHands.“I felt a sensation like warm caramel sliding down the back of my spine as I lay down on the floor.” -MGWMarimba is an optimistic person who does not get bogged down in drama. She has overcome many things including not being able to walk properly for years due to an injury. A healthy life, family and friends are important to her. She is a unique blend of being forever young, yet a wise old grandma. An infectious laugh with dialogue that is spoken with a mindfulness of conscious selected thoughts. Marimba is extremely persistent and a creative artist from dance to healing to cooking. She definitely wins the ‘QuestHands ‘Gold Star’ award (if it existed) for saying the word ‘quest’ the most out of any guest that has ever been on the show. “We need to be a lotmore mindful about how we use this earth.” -MGW“If you don’t have a strong sense of self in relationships, then you can’t be a support for someone else. You also can’t lean on someone else if you don’ know yourself.”                -MGWTo read more about Marimba and to visit and book a session with her in New York City, visit: http://www.articulatingbody.comOn the FaceBook page Marimba shares articles and photographs about health : https://www.facebook.com/ArticulatingBody/https://www.instagram.com/articulatingbody/The theme of this ‘Weekly Quest’ is FAMILY. To remember that as adults we have the ability tochoose the people to be in our life as family. Those who have the same values that you do who also help you create a sense of awareness that allows you to lift up. Remember this and not victimize yourself to be stuck in relationships with people who do not allow you to move forward.*Music featured throughout this QuestHands podcast is by Dj Shiva  www.iamdjshiva.comTUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“Give me the permission from The Universe, that it won’t be offended by me if I don’ have the time to do what I have to do during my lifetime, before I die.” -KSThis episode features Kira Shulaeva from St. Petersburg, Russia. The first QuestHands guest from Russia. She is a professional multi-instrumentalist playing the violin, piano and voice. Kira also composes music and loves to dance. Although she passed 3 different entry exams for post secondary special music schools, she was proud to study and receive her university degree in her home city.“I am a musician and an artist, well maybe firstly an artist and then musician”. -KSRobert enjoyed revisiting his few brief memories of visiting St. Petersburg many moons ago and getting insights from Kira in a few things. He learned that the subways system needs to be low because there are underground water channels. For this reason St. Petersburg is known as the ‘Venice of the North’.“I have to find what I have to find, and it’s even better not to know about this. Just follow the right way step by step. We can see the next step only after we took the previous step. You can’t see 100 steps forward.” -KSKira embodies and exudes what Robert wishes for all artists, which is to ‘not give a shit!’ and be herself. She is eclectic and kinda in her own world. As a child she shared the memory of looking out her window to other houses windows, and seeing the variations of what lay in those spaces. This evolved her love of shapes and the quirky word ‘Tubes’. She also mentioned an odd statement about how all her memories are memories of memories. “When I smoke, I like to see how it goes from my mouth, the shape, it’s like my spirit spreading around people.” -KSShe loves to laugh and to connect in good conversation with others. Kira laughed a lot during this show. Especially in contract to my ‘clean’ lifestyle as she spoke about her joy of smoking, drinking and not sleeping a lot. It was fun for her to make fun of me and to see the joy in our differences.“I have to find what I have to find, and it’s even better not to know about this. Just follow the right way step by step. We can see the next step only after we took the previous step. You can’t see 100 steps forward.”-KSShe claimed to be self conscious with her English language and simple answers. However words put together are poetry in motion with expressive statements to the listener. How wondrous to support a musician with such an array of open ideas and talents.“Yeah, I just try to look at myself from the side. I don’t know how to explain it. I just try to leave all feelings in myself, not to get rid of them. Just watching this from the side. Like when we are watching a movie. We can believe we are in this movie or we can just watch the movie without analyzing why the director used these costumes? Why he put this hero in this place? Why he ran in this creek?” -KS“I think people shouldn’t be scared of nothing, especially in relationships. The biggest problem in relationships is when people start to be scared of their freedom. That’s not right.” -KS“Don’t be scared to watch at bad things. For example if someone is trying to cross the road and a car just kills him, don’t be scared to look at this person. Even if it is a really bad body, really tortured; because it happened on your way. If you travelled through this place you shouldn’t turn your head to another side because it happened in your life.” -KSCheck out more information and art from Kira at:https://soundcloud.com/kira-shulaeva-kirahttps://vk.com/kirashulaevaThe theme of this ‘Weekly Quest’ is CAREER. Just do what you like to do. You have to love what you do. Try to work really hard and value your time. Even on a lunch break, see and guide what your brain is thinking. Remember people too, don’t step on them to get ahead. Don’t feel you are alone and have to fight.*Music featured throughout this QuestHands podcast is by Dj Shivawww.iamdjshiva.comTUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“Through the theory of ‘incarnation’ my soul already knows all this is gonna happen, and so I gotta ride along with it. The ‘Soul’ is ‘God-like’, ‘Spark of God’. It does not feel anything, it can digest everything, it’s just experience. But my physical body as a person, Oh My God, it’s a nightmare, it’s been crazy. I’ve had a lot of dark years. Why? Because that’s the experience.” -夏竹This episode features 夏竹 (Tommy). A wonderful young man with a vitality and wit like no other. He offered us the analogy of how the country of China is shaped like a rooster and so he is from the ‘stomach’. South of the Yangtze River, Huangshi, Hubei. Like most of my Chinese guests, their names have interesting meanings and stories. ‘Tommy’ was a self chosen name inspired by an Italian taxi driver character in a Mafia style game he enjoyed called ‘The City of Lost Heaven’, which he played from 14 yrs old. Tommy’s original name (夏克天)made him sick and turned heads when he introduced himself. Why? Because it meant ‘To go against the Heavens’. Where his mom is from has an abundance of bamboo and he loves bamboo; so he chose a new name ‘Zhu’ meaning bamboo at 6 yrs old. With the family name ‘Xia’ meaning ‘summer’, he is 夏竹 ‘The Bamboo in the Summer’.“Just let me die peacefully. I want to go to sleep and die without any senses, and transcend myself into the sky. Wow, and touch the stars”. -夏竹Tommy works as Youth Staff for ages 3-17 on the cruise ship which he describes as someone that guarantees their safety and ensures they are having fun. He used to be a teacher and so is good with kids, however does not subscribe to a mainstream traditional value system. What is common is to strictly ‘listen and follow your elders’. Tommy tells the youth:“You need to do this because you want to do it, because it makes you happy. Not because you mom and dad say so.”-夏竹You will notice right away how Tommy has the ‘gift of the gab’ but not in an empty chatter kind of way. It is actually the opposite. He is a thoughtful, philosophical, blunt, clear, and descriptive speaker. He has studied english for 15 years along with the help of movies and video games. Tommy’s Dad give him a serious blunt wake up call before an important University entry-level examination. Although this moment broke his heart, it inspired a resilience and ability to focus into his excellence during 4 years of college. It was there he learned major foundations of English, Physics and experienced an array of odd part time jobs in society. “Since our dimension and frequency is so different, you still exist, you live in the Universe I will never know about, you will expand my consciousness. I won't call you lower or higher, you are open to all possibilities just like different aspects and perspectives of a crystal.” -夏竹    (On talking to people you hate)Tommy was not afraid to talk about shameful historic and current truths about China. He experienced lower standard medical practices when he was just a kid which caused stunted development of his muscles and bones, leading to two required surgeries. This also happened to millions of kids between 1970 & 1990. He mentioned how the ‘red cash envelopes’ which are a common gift at Chinese New Year, are used to have doctors and surgeons provide better care and surgery to the patient. This can sadly lead to bankruptcy and being shunned by some families. Another dark side is how most people are focused on the economy and making money as opposed to celebrating the rich cultural Spiritual heritage on Confucianism and Taoism. As insightful and revealing as Tommy’s disclosures were, Robert made Tommy state two positive things about China. This first being represented by the exquisite Lotus Plant. The roots being ‘Confucianism’, the stem being ‘Philosophy’ and the flower being ‘Buddhism’. This is the foundation and timeless rich philosophical knowledge that is respected and studied around the world. The second aspect Tommy spoke on was the vast diversity that China beholds. Four different races in the North, East, South and West along with their own cuisines, landscapes and agricultural offerings. He looks forward to a day where China can rise into celebrating their diverse abundance in a vital way attracting travellers naturally.“I will always love you but maybe I don’t like you that much anymore. Because you can’t call it home if even with breathing it gives you disease”. -夏竹 (On his Love of China)Tommy is full of life force energy. He is fast twitched, playful, and celebrates a diverse array of passions in nature, sports, consciousness and art. He is a natural born artist who feels a bit sad to have not pursued it professionally but believes there is still hope. He started painting since he was 2yrs old. At 4 or 5yrs old he remembered not having (or even knowing about) an eraser so he put sticky rice on the paper to cover his design and when it dried started again. In regards to dance he clearly remembers watching a street dance movie when young. He was so inspired that he started dancing along side with them, but when his grandmother saw him, she insisted he stop. In Chinese culture it is shameful to overact and show yourself out. One needs to be a good student. It is shameful to be lower than other students. Tommy has a strong body, mind and spiritual nature. It is enhanced with his open mind in gathering awareness through each experience and knowledge from other sources, especially Bashar (A highly respected controversial Conscious Being from another realm). Tommy is currently focused onbeing fluent in Japanese and practicing Vegetarianism. He has dreamed of travelling and made it happened. Robert has no doubts where his dreams can and will lead him next.“You have to stand your ground, if you are not who you are, what makes you special? What else would make you able to say before you go to the other side, ‘I was here.’ -夏竹“As long as you feel it will work for you, it will work for you.”      -夏竹“I am very honoured and happy to say I did it my way, not their way” -夏竹“When I workout it’s not just simple physical suffering. The thing is, the Spirit has to be there; and for the Spirit to be there, the Heart has to be there.” -夏竹“I like demons, demons are cool, why not? They used to be Angels, don’t judge them”. -夏竹With Google and YouTube being blocked in China, Tommy shared a great website for Mandarin speakers to understand. It summarizes all information together from Religions, Documentaries, Conspiracies, Extra-Terrestrial knowledge and more: www.awaker.cnThe theme of this ‘Weekly Quest’ is SELF DEVELOPMENT.  Try to talk to someone that you really dislike, hate or those who you don't completely agree with.Try to listen to them for a week and talk less if a good conversation cannot happen. Listen and try to make them be patient with you.  Be very rational about the whole process, record it mentally and see what you can find out and learn from that very person.*Music featured throughout this QuestHands podcast is by Dj Shivawww.iamdjshiva.comTUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“Remember that we are all stardust, and a star died so you can live and a star is a celestial being so that means something, its powerful, its a sacrifice from The Universe that is much bigger than you.” -VMEpisode 33 is a special one. It being themed as the ‘Jesus Episode’ due to the number 33 being a divine mirror power number, as well as the apostle Jesus Christ transcending at 33 years of age. It features Vid Marjanovic from Belgrade, Serbia who is a Sound Technician, Music Producer and DJ. Vid is the perfect guest for this episode as he is the most similar mentally and spiritually to host Robert’s consciousness and life values.“Those every one of our experiences The Universe knows itself better, so it’s not like ‘my experience’ and ‘your experience’. It’s just the universe experiencing itself through our experiences.” -VMVid describes himself as just a regular humble guy that makes art. He creatively goes by the name ‘Estray’ offering multicultural sounds, world music, chill out spheres, downtempo designed for yoga/meditation; but can move your body as well. He has travelled Europe as DJ for various events and has the goal to move south of the Equator to Peru where the Sun, warmth and more feminism creative energy thrives.“So there is no bad or good experiences, it’s just experiences. Because the universe doesn’t have that false moral thinking of judgemental, just infinite possibilities.”  -VMVid has a strong relationship with the Sun, he says it is the most important thing to him and humanity. 90% of the music and musicians he resonates with comes from people and cultures living near the equator.“When I lost the fear of dying, when I accepted that it’s something part of me, which actually now I feel is something beautiful because you are coming back to the light, you are coming back to the stars. In that way when I accepted that, it opened so many doors. Suddenly I started to feel so brave in many different aspects of my life and I was more confident in myself as well. I was following my intuition and heart more and more. thinking less and less with my brain. Because brain is illusion, brain is ego. It is a tool for ego. So basically we have 2 brains and scientists confirmed that by finding neuro cells in the heart.” -VMVid spoke freely about Dimethyltryptamine, Ayahuasca, DMT and other natural sacred psychedelic compounds one can take which open portals of the humans perception of matter and anti-matter, reality, eternity, past, present and future. A fascinating conversation exploring various likeminded topics and learning new things along the way. Both Robert and Vid hope to collaborate one day on some video projects and wellness retreats. Perhaps in Peru where Vid is off to create his second album in a better environment suited for the specific essence he desired to be cultivated.“Whenever I feel that my heart is beating in some direction during some sort of experience I have not had in my past lives, I just go there. Whatever I feel is new for me, my soul, which is refreshing me, I’m just going there without any fear or guilt. And that’s beautiful.” -VMIt was so sweet yet powerful that the statement ‘To Be Happy’ came up twice in this interview. For what he dreamt of being when he grew up and for what his grandest wish would be. This was quite the statement reflecting on how humans feel we need this or that or he or she to be happy. When happiness is all that truly matters.To follow Vid and get updates: https://www.facebook.com/estrayofficialTo listen to his music: https://soundcloud.com/estray-1To Contact Vid or to Book him write to: estrayinfo@gmail.com*Music featured throughout this QuestHands podcast is by Dj Shiva  www.iamdjshiva.comThe theme of this ‘Weekly Quest’ is HOBBIES. Specifically to the passion of Travel. Go somewhere that your past life was or your future life will be. Travel as you wish. It could be physical or mental. allow the leisure of travel to be playful and in the flow your life.TUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA (FB, TW, INSTA) @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“Agaar means ‘Air’ in Mongolian, but when it comes to names it means more like ‘Universe’. Something bigger than Air, that includes the Earth and Sky and everything. So it’s a pretty heavy name. A pretty big name given from my mom”. -AThis episode features Agaar. A talented friendly man from the countryside of Inner Mongolia. His parents still live there but he is now based in Northern China where it still can get as cold as -35c. A unique name that most people on the cruiseship defaulted to just call him ‘G’. Robert enjoyed rolling his R’s saying his name but enjoyed more getting to know someone from somewhere so different to Robert’s upbringing. Agaar lived in the countryside known as the grasslands with 600 sheep and 60 cows. A traditional life with no neighbours and lots of work.  He went to school with 200 students and 10 teachers. He knew nothing about being the minority until meeting Chinese people in middle school.“Let me put it this way, I grew up in the country side, I grew up with over 600 sheep and 60 cows, they drink water every day and the water is not gonna come out by itself, it’s a lot of work. I did so much work everyday to keep them healthy and everything else as well”. -AAgar’s role on the cruiseship is as Crews Staff which Robert describes as being the ‘cheerleaders’ of the ship. They host parties, go-go dance, lead lots of activities, have game shows and overall help the guests have a good time. An interesting place to end up after many different experiences around China and from being a musician and singer for many years. It does however sit well with his friendly confident personality.“The Sky is everything, the Sky & the Earth are the two things that matters most, that I am grateful for. They give me everything & protect me everyday”. -AAgaar has an amazing pair of ears. He can hear details of distinction that many cannot. Robert recalls being in a crew training with Agaar where he impersonated the officer of a western european country and was bang on perfect. So funny. He does have a future goal of cross training to be a Sound Technician which would honour his natural enhanced gift with sound.“Get up where you fell down”. -AWhat is amazing about Agaar is his open friendly nature. A patient, respectful person who has not been swept up in the internet technology craze. He firmly believes in face to face communication and celebrating laughter gathering in groups. He loves to travel and meet new people as well feels that we are all artists in different ways.“Stay a little bit far from your phones. Have real conversations with the people you love. Just sit down and talk with your mouths, not with your fingers. I’m not really a fan of technology, maybe its because I grew up in the countryside”-AThe theme of this ‘Weekly Quest’ is WEALTH. To count your spending and access your needs and the moneys to not be left empty pocketed. Be prepared.*Music featured throughout this QuestHands podcast is by Dj Shiva www.iamdjshiva.comTUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“You can still be 100% right in what you think, but if you give this message not in the right way, people may still not appreciate it.” -MVEpisode 31 happens to feature a 31 year old man, Melgert Veer. He is from The Netherlands, the province of Utrecht which is 30-40 minutes away from Amsterdam. He works as Sports Staff on the ship with a niche focus on the stimulated skydiving experience, iFly. Although he enjoys sports, he prefers sports that immerse you in the natural world. Such activities as cliff climbing, survival runs in forests and trails.“To be healthy is number one. You can have lots of money but still not be healthy, that is not success. Success is not having pain, of course having money to do what you want to do with free time is important too.” -MVMelgert is QuestHands’s first dutch guest with his unique gentle accent, however there are no stereotypes here. As Melgert spoke freely about some controversial topics as women, nudity, overpopulation and pro-choice. He is not on Facebook and has the goal to continue working with iFly but on land in the Netherlands.“Ya for me balance is very important, that the person is not from one day to another completely different. That one day they love you and the next day say you are a liar.”       -MVThe theme of this ‘Weekly Quest’ is ROMANCE. To explore the beauty, structure, sensation and visceral experience with ‘feet’. Massaging, touching, kissing, and sucking them. Explore mutual play.TUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“I enjoy helping people, sometimes I wish I was the president and could just sort things out.”-SPEpisode 30 begins a new cycle finally welcoming back a female to QuestHands. This episode features Samantha Paixao of Johannesburg, South Africa. She is the Cruise Program Administrator who works directly with the Cruise Director. A very demanding busy task of details and time sensitive decisions. Yet Samantha does it with grace and ease. She claims that it is easy for her. How amazing for her to be in her flow and connection of skills, bringing ease to the workplace. She is a great demonstration to us all. A soft spoken, mature, clear communicator with class.“I would just love it if the whole would come to peace. That the fighting would stop, the raping, the violence, the killing, the thieving and we’ll have equality.” -SPRobert welcomed back once again Jessica Monea Evans to co-host as she is Samantha’s friend too. This made Robert very happy as the lil piggie in the middle of these two lovely ladies. They had the epiphany that Jessica resembles Tracy Chapman which was trip and a hoot. All in good fun and celebrating the joys and jokes of life.“Forgive and let it go instead of bottling it up and keeping it for yourself.” -SPSamantha testified a few times of her desire for marriage and starting a family. Ask and you shall receive, and so here’s hoping that the rockets of desire launched on this show align in her favour in the near future. In the mean time, shopping, friends and traveling the world will do.“I’m a family person. It gives me more energy once I've seen family, when we reunite and everyone is happy.” -SPThe theme of this ‘Weekly Quest’ is FAMILY. Try your best to spend more time with your family, especially your parents because they are getting old. If you are far away and meeting in person is not possible, there is always social media or a telephone.TUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“As long as you stand behind the choices you make, it’s awesome. Once you cannot stand to look yourself in the mirror then you need to stop and start changing your life.” -DMThis episode features the energetic Davor Markuš from Croatia. A country with 7 National Parks and an incredible coastline. He works as Sports Staff on the ship with a speciality position as an iFly Instructor. iFly is a simulated skydiving experience in a wind tunnel. He knew right away that he would resonate with it and so did the training. Devour aka as Markus, has worked on cruise ships for 3 years and 6 years on land in various entertainment positions. He loves working and interacting creatively with people. Robert did not know if he could handle all of Davor’s energy so he welcomed back on the show to be a co-host a previous guest from episode 23, Ms Jessica Monea Evans.“I do have bad days, but they last about 6 hours and then I’m back to the track when I see people, especially when I am working with people. When I am there I can take their energy and give them my energy.”-DMWith Robert being an avid people watcher it was inevitable that Davor would catch his eye. Not only is he super positive, outgoing, fun and energetic, but he wears from time to time colourful harm pants that catch the eye. Robert’s eye anyhow. From the first hello, Robert knew he had to be on QuestHands. Devour had a rough childhood being labeled with ADHD getting grounded and scolded often. However it was with his parents firm hand with tough love that has made him who he is today. A man with incredible ambition for living his life to the fullest. “I’ll accept you even if you stab me 20 times in the back, I’ll still give you the 21st chance. It’s Universe Karma, Energy, God, whatever you wanna call it. Soul?” -DMDavor wouldn’t mind being SuperMan. Someone who wants to be able to do everything and anything. A true lover of all of life. His professional goal is to become a Cruise Director for ships which Robert feels would be a beyond suitable fit with his personality and ability to make people smile, and remember that life is supposed to be fun! “If you don’t like your job change it. You can always find something if you are willing to work. You will learn something in between until you find something you love. Just wake up in the morning, it’s a new day for something new. Even if it’s the same job, still you can learn something new in different conversations.” -DMDavor has an infectious laugh that cultivates joy. The section of Word Association during this show somehow turned into a vocal variation between the three probably do to Davor being a bit of a Nutcase. He is an amazing blend of intellect and imagination. A man that has been watching Dragon Ball, Sailor Moon and Pokemon Anime series for 18 years now, and has learned the German language from watching tv. He loves TV and Films and can see himself acting in the future too. He doesn’t deny his love of females which comes across various times during the show. Stay tuned for a future invention of a double decker sofa couch and a reunion of his Red Hot Chili Peppers Tribute Band. Anything is possible with a man who believes that everything is Awesome.“As I said, just waking up in the morning it’s an awesome day. Whatever happens during the day, it’s life. It’s in the past, I cannot change it, just accept it, learn from it.” -DM“I always say, I’ve already made it, I just need to go there.” -DM“Every day is an awesome day.” -DMThe theme of this ‘Weekly Quest’ is ROMANCE. For committed couples, try something new. Whether in or outside of the relationship. For single people, just go for it. If you like someone you already have the ‘no’ answer, so the positive answer of ‘yes’ is the only risk worth taking. Don't let the fear stop you.TUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“I am grateful for what I have. What I have and what I have been given the chance to have. As I have said before thoughts become our reality, so I am grateful for the chance to have all those thoughts. Which pretty much says I am grateful for everything that is here.” -BJThis episode features Blair Johnston who is an Australian from Melbourne, however is a resident of Japan having lived in Osaka for 14 years. This episode is unique for two reasons. Firstly that it was recorded on land in a cute cafe in Osaka while Robert was at port. Secondly the fact that Robert got to reunite with his old friend Blair. They met in 2009 when Robert lived and worked at Universal Studios Japan performing in the musical ‘Wicked’.  After the two met for an amazing vegetarian buffet lunch, Robert couldn't resist having Blair on QuestHands as he is such a positive, conscious man. Robert and Blair reconnected on many topics that they used to talk about years back.On Death: “It is the grand mystery, but there is also something fun about it. It’s like a new adventure. So given that I love adventure, the fear is a lot less. There is always fear with new adventure, thats half the fun of it. It’s gotta be scary, it’s like a big ride.” -BJAt the start of the episode Blair shared a childhood story of being stranded on a tree for 15 minutes, hanging there like a monkey. A cool foreshadow because since 2004 he has been co-running PowerArts International with his amazing partner. A world class gymnastics school offering various movement and specialty classes to all ages. The gym keeps expanding and Robert was truly excited to see the growth, hoping on his next visit he can teach there. “Any small bit or energy, but it together and you get big energy. And you can do many things with big energy”. -BJBlair is to Robert one of those friends where the conversation just picks up where it left off, no matter how many years have past. He is a spiritual, conscious living, vegetarian brother. Full of joy, positivity, and love. He lives with 2 birds, 2 dogs and even with a busy full-time teaching schedule has time for his epic hobby of War Hammer. A geeky yet zen hobby of building, painting and playing with these characters. Robert had a blast sipping coffee and teasing Blair how much of a monkey he is, while Blair was sweet to state how almost every question was a ‘great’ question. Truly a child at heart, he students always tell him he is like a 4yr old child. It is so important to have balance, and Blair does as an intelligent wise man, who’s focus is to encourage and remind people the importance of having fun.“What I teach is a sport, but I don’t like to teach it as a sport. It’s not about winning or losing, it’s about doing it and enjoying what you are doing. And being an acrobat, you know being able to do things like spin in the air, flip in the air, it’s fun. It should be enjoyable. I always want my students to know that, always have fun with that, and then take that fun out of the gym and always be fun.” -BJTo learn more about Blair’s awesome gym and school offerings check them out at:www.powerarts.orghttps://www.facebook.com/powerarts.acro/The theme of this ‘Weekly Quest’ is WEALTH. When you say you don't have money, you don’t have money. Even if you do have money. So for this week, get rid of the phrase, ‘I don’t have money’. You will notice you will always have money in your wallet. It will just come. If you feel you want to say or think something, perhaps say ‘I’d rather spend money on. . .’TUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“I’m a fan of superheroes they're a good example of how its within the human potential to push beyond difficulty and to come out ok in the end” -DDThis episode features Dave Donnelly from a town close to Glasgow, Scotland. He is a musician and a good friend. Dave now plays the Alto Sax professionally but started with a simple recorder in school. His influences to play the sax stem from listening to the British band, ‘Madness’ that his dad often played; along with his brother playing the sax.  Dave now gets to travel the world being part of cruise ship orchestras.“I think humans spend a lot of time trying to preserve what we have and to make sure what we have lasts and I think it’s important to realize it won’t, it doesn’t. In this existence as far as we know, nothing actually lasts forever. Not a thing in this reality”. -DDRobert will never forget the first time he met Dave. Even though it was in a busy crew hallway, he took the time to stop and be present. They chatted and seized a moment of kindness without rushing off to the next agenda. Dave reminds Robert of the character Big Max from Big Hero 6 for the descriptive reasoning stated above.“You know the saying, ‘All Good Things Must Come to an End’ ? Well I think that applies to everything. Absolutely everything. Our lives, our race, our existence. . .etcetera. But there are people that concentrate so hard on making their money off that industry or business, that they don't want to let that go.” -DDDave strives to be a good guy and friend which most people that meet him would believe he is successful at. Not being in a hurry and being open to what different people, places and circumstances can offer you is key. Dave is passionate about travelling and open to how he grows through the adventures. He is proud to be Scottish yet doesn’t conform to stereotypes.“At this point in time, I am trying to develop myself but with no particular time limit on it. I am just seeing how the world influences me, how people’s ideas and things can change the way I think.” -DD“I haven’t been bored in ages. I don’t know why.” -DD“I just don’t think, it’s perfect.” -DDThe theme of this ‘Weekly Quest’ is ROMANCE. If you have someone special in your life, tell them 3 things you like about them. If you do not have someone at this point and you see someone you like, say just 1 nice thing to them because 3 would be creepy to a stranger.TUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“God loves you for who you are no matter what. So you don’t have to go through no body, a building, a temple to solidify or seek validation that your love for God is real. I’m a gay man and a christian, you can be both.” -COThis episode features Corey Odems. He is also from Nashville, Tennessee just like Kuba from last weeks episode. This weeks show is unique in the sense that it is the first time having a co-host. Structure is wonderful but so are surprises and flux in our lives. One of Robert’s favorite podcasts and biggest inspirations in general is Ru Paul, as is for Corey. Ru Paul’s show is co-hosted with his best friend Michelle Visage called ‘What’s The Tee’. Robert’s co-host this week is Sydney Miller from Wilmington, North Carolina. Sydney is a fellow dancer with Robert in his shows and has been a great support to Robert with crazy ship life and an avid QuestHands listener. Corey gets to hang out with all the DreamWorks characters and share them with the passengers. His favorite is Gloria from Madagascar who’s sassy character reminds him of himself. He is also an actor, singer and dancer who also has a university and Masters degrees.“I think it’s important for us to observe the person, see where that person comes from, cause you can know right away if that person is good for you or not. I believe our spirit will tell you right away before you say a word.” -COOne of the first things that thrilled Robert upon meeting Corey is that he knows how to Vogue. Voguing is a part of some people’s nature with how they carry themselves and dance. Corey has it going on, there were a few crew parties where he was on fire on the dance floor. One of Robert’s passions is Voguing, so there was a nature magnetism in meeting each other. On the other side of the spectrum is Corey’s Spirituality as a Christian. He speaks about knowing who God was since he was 4 years old. He claims to have always felt His presence.  “My relationship with God has nothing to do with the Church.” -COBoth Corey and Sydney brainstormed and offered two simple practical tasks to aid in uplifting ones self esteem. Corey mentioned having a large jar set somewhere accessible in your room or home. Whenever something awesome happens that you achieved, experienced or were complimented on, write it on a small piece of paper. Whenever you are having a low moment, simply reach in and select a random paper to read, remember and refresh your perspective regarding yourself and your potential. Sydney offered the simple yet empowering task of talking aloud to yourself when you shower. A powerful time to let go and rebuild to a new state of being.“It doesn’t matter if you believe in God or not, having that time where you can have 'me time', to sit & think about where you are going is so healthy for a person.” -COCorey also spoke so eloquently about how freedom is linked to his idea of success. He is a very sweet, funny, optimistic, positive guy with a wonderful imagination. There is no doubt the future holds great things for him which is evident with his drive and colourful personality. “My imagination is really what gets me by everyday, it’s so powerful, it makes be me feel like I can do anything. So many people have told me, you are not good enough to do this, you are not smart enough to do that. But I always relied on my imagination. My imagination is what got me here.” -CO“My imagination takes me to different places, like this is how it could happen or if you do get it, you can see yourself on a big stage. So it pushes me, it pushes me to get better than what I am.” -COYou can follow and communicate with Corey and his upcoming adventures in the following ways:https://www.instagram.com/coreyodems/https://www.facebook.com/therealcoreyodems/?fref=tshttps://twitter.com/coreyaodems snap chat: musictalent27 The theme of this ‘Weekly Quest’ is FRIENDS. To be more open to accept others that are not like you. To embrace people who you think are weird or from another background. You never know how they may change ur life for the better. Start with a friendly hello.TUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“I’M NOT A BELIEVER SO I DON’T BELIEVE THAT RELIGION MIGHT HELP YOU. LIKE THERE IS SOME GOD WHO WILL SAVE YOU. I BELIEVE THAT YOU HAVE TO DO IT FOR YOURSELF. IF YOU WON’T DO IT, NO BODY ELSE WILL DO IT.”  -KKThis episode features Kuba Kawnik who was born in Łódź, Poland. For the last decade calls Nashville, Tennessee in the United States home. Travelling is part of his nature as a multi-instrumentalist guest entertainer. He is best known for his performances on a vibraphone, using a specialized 4-mallet technique as well as the unique and eery theremin instrument. For many years Kuba has been travelling the globe performing on different cruise lines with his own show, however he is currently on The Quantum of the Seas performing with Robert in Sonic Odyssey as the Earth Harpist. This is a lovely surprise for Robert as he met Kuba a year ago for a few weeks as he was being introduced to this unique production but they never had a chance to perform together until now.“I JUST LOVE MAKING PEOPLE HAPPY, I LOVE THAT PEOPLE AROUND ME ARE HAPPY, I REALLY DO, IF THEY ARE NOT,  IT HURTS ME A LITTLE BIT.” -KKRobert was also pleasantly surprised with how friendly, gentle and laid back Kuba is for being a Polish person. It is so awesome to have stereotypes shattered with our day to day interactions with new people from around the world. Kuba is passionate not only about music but health and happiness as well. He acknowledges that health is the greatest wealth and the key to being capable of doing what we wish. He invests in this with regular exercise. Robert was so surprised how sympathetic Kuba is in regards to how he truly cares for other people’s wellbeing. It is one of his greatest joys to make people happy and smile. This is due to his friendly social nature and charm. However he also acknowledges his challenges with bouts of laziness and anger which is all part of being human.“I USED TO BE A BELIEVER, I WAS RAISED IN A CATHOLIC FAMILY. BUT ONE TIME THERE WAS A METAMORPHOSIS, AND BOOM, IT HAPPENED RIGHT AWAY. IF YOU WOULD ASK ME, HOW LONG IT WOULD TAKE YOU TO DO THIS METAMORPHOSIS, I WOULD SAY ONE DAY. YES OF COURSE I WAS THINKING ABOUT IT FOR A LONG TIME, AND THEN BOOM, IT HAPPENED. AND I AM A MUCH BETTER PERSON FOR IT.” -KKKuba also spoke strongly about not being a ‘Believer’ in religion, but in self reliance. The importance in developing yourself and being aware of your capacity and potential to continually learn and problem solve. Kuba’s music and personality are welcoming to people of all ages and races. He is a smart, confident, hard working man who is working on expanding his show to the Chinese market.  His ambition never seems to expire, no surprise with this curious positive person that Robert feels resembles Jack Skellington from the Tim Burton’s film, “The Nightmare Before Christmas”.“I LOVE PEOPLE AND I AM SUPER FRIENDLY, AND I HEAR IT FROM OTHERS THAT IT SPREADS OUT AND IS CONTAINGEOUS.” -KK“WORK ON YOURSELF” -KKCheck out Kuba’s music and more here: www.kubavibes.comThe theme of this ‘Weekly Quest’ is WEALTH. Look at your goals. Reflect on the goals you wanted to do then did them. Remember the joy and thrill, but most importantly the ability to attain it. Now see which goal you want to attack now in this current cycle of your life.TUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“Silence is very important to me, I can calm myself down and try to do something more seriously, without silence it would be a disaster to me. So thats why, I need it and enjoy it.” -FLEpisode 24 features 24 year old Fernando (Bin) Lu. ‘Bin’ is a combination of 2 Chinese character letters. One being ‘Literature’ and the other ‘Sports’. He is indeed a balance of them both making his parents proud. His hometown which he loves very much is Wenzhou, Zhejiang, China. The man that can move mountains with his deep voice. Almost. Movement and being active is a part of his life as his role on this ship is as sports staff, a nice position for someone who dreamed of being a basketball superstar in his youth. There are numerous sports and activities he teaches and supervises, his favourite being ‘FlowRider’ (a surfing simulator). Robert loves distinct characters, along with their unique traits and Fernando’s voice is one of them. It is very cool as it adds to a mature, wise storyteller character. Fernando also has a gift and passion to learn languages having studied Spanish in University and from working in Italy on Costa Cruises. All this adds to a very special accent. “I don’t have everything I want in my life, but I AM blessed enough that I have all that I need in my life at this moment, for this I am grateful.” -FLFernando is a very positive optimistic man. Truly a gem to have around the ship as he wants to be here. There is great power in deciding and enjoying where you are and not defaulting to complaining. It is Fernando’s values in honouring friendships and community that speak to his happy nature. This comes from a strong family bond which is his priority to keep, even when working so far away. It was powerful to have a repetitive theme appear throughout the interview, ‘the importance of listening’. Fernando also reflected in a unique way of experiencing silence in his life.“Listening plays an important role to build up a good relationship, because most people don't listen to each other, they just want to talk. But imagine if all the people are talking, who is listening?” -FLFernando described himself as being 50% traditional Chinese. From traveling the world and making friends from different countries, one cannot help but grow in being more open and cultured. Similar to Denald from Episode 19, Curiosity fuels Fernando’s life. He is open to challenges and trying new things. Robert was flattered how he spoke highly of him and the perspectives Robert offered. The feeling is mutual toward Fernando being a strong warm hearted man. Even if he eats chicken feet! In Fernando’s words. . .”That’s it.”“Try to think of about things from different sides, don’t always stay in the same opinion. Otherwise you live a hard life and may make other people feel sad and disappointed. So try and switch your mind and think more about others. That is what I am trying to do at the moment. It’s hard but we need to try it.” -FLThe theme of this ‘WeeklyQuest’ is FAMILY. To leave out some time and go back home to stay with your family. For at least 2 hrs, talk with them, share stories, put your phone away, stay away from the tv, have a meal at the same table, talk but listen to your family. This is especially important for people that work far from home. Even for those who may have some family challenges, reach out to them and listen. Be gracious with your communication.TUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!

“No one has as much trust and dependency in things, than I have trust and dependency in. I’m not saying that anyone else isn’t trust worthy, but I just feel like, no one can be as efficient as me, especially when it comes to me.” -JMEThis episode features Jessica Monea Evans, 1 of 3 black woman out of approximately 1300 crew members on the Quantum of the Seas ship. She was born in North Carolina but is based in Los Angeles, California. Visiting China was on her bucket list so it is pretty cool she made it over to the ‘Far East’. Jessica works as a Technical Stage Staff doing a variety of theatre production tasks including ‘rigging’ which involves suspension of a flying performer. Robert first learnt of met Jessica through a poster advertising Afro Funk Fitness Classes for the crew. Initially it seemed like an illusional mirage on a cruise ship in Asia, however it was true, and both Afro Funk and Jessica are fabulous.“When people ask where I am from, thinking I am from another country, I say I am from Venus; because I refuse to be associated with a place (now I don’t like generalizations) but I definitely don’t like a place that has been demolishing and mucking up my people for so long.” -JMERobert was pleased to learn that Jessica is also interested in Numerology and is kind of lazy and busy to fully understand the depths of it. She did know that 23 is 2 + 3 = 5 which is her Life Number, so pretty cool she is being featured on episode 23. Jessica shared that the zodiac signs between Robert and herself (Capricorn & Taurus) are quite compatible which made a lot of sense with how easy the interview flowed. It does of course help that they are both into arts and wellness. Jessica always wanted to be in the arts even with big obstacles along the way. Her inner drive, focus and determination speaks to the character she is today.“SELF is the basis of life, so if you have a basic idea of what that is in general, I feel like a lot of things will unfold for your future.” –JMEJessica acknowledges that her greatest strength is in management. In executing details, communication and making things happen. She is a peacemaker who believes in making the time to see eye to eye, hear each other out and use our strengths to work together in harmony. Jessica doesn’t take life too serious and allows laughter to be part of her day. She also enjoys making up her own words just for the fun of it.“I consider myself to be a very unique situation.” –JME“It’s ok to get along. It’s ok to have a conversation and discuss hardships instead of beating people’s asses.” –JMECheck out the website for Afro Funk Dance Fitness which Jessica is proud to be apart of. Learn about this unique cardio workout that incorporates world music for All Ages and All Levels. Stay posted for upcoming teacher certifications, similar to Zumba.www.movedancelive.com on Facebook search: ‘Afro Funk’ and ‘Move Dance Live’You can also reach Jessica for any inquires and for her up coming Nubian Management Consulting Business; offering assistance for ‘start up’ artists and companies in solidifying their brand at: jessicamoneaevans@gmail.com The theme of this ‘WeeklyQuest’ is HEALTH. To take some time daily and hydrate your body with clean water. Remember you can always boil the water to eliminate extra particles that need not be there. Also to add more fruits and vegetables to your diet to replenish and feed you body the extra vitamins and minerals you may be lacking to be healthy.TUNE IN NEXT WEEK FOR ANOTHER GREAT EPISODE. SIGN UP FOR THE UPCOMING NEWSLETTER BELOW AND JOIN US ON SOCIAL MEDIA @QUESTHANDSTHANKS FOR LISTENING!   ENJOY THE QUEST!