EP85: From Russia to Canada: Politics, Culture & Warning Signs

Welcome back to another episode of the Couple Casuals Podcast!In this episode, Stefano sits down with Alex Glikman — political commentator and host of The Alex Glikman Show — for a raw, unfiltered conversation on culture, politics, and the future of Canada.Alex shares his journey from immigrating to Canada from Russia to building a platform where he speaks openly on today’s biggest issues. From personal growth and discipline to the responsibility that comes with having a voice online, this episode goes far beyond surface-level conversation.The discussion dives deep into global conflict, including the Russia–Ukraine war, and how lived experience shapes Alex’s perspective on politics, leadership, and national identity.From there, the conversation shifts into Canadian politics — breaking down the Trudeau era, the rise of Mark Carney, and why many Canadians feel disconnected from what’s actually happening in the country. Throughout the episode, Stefano and Alex dive into:• Alex’s upbringing in Russia and transition to Canada• the reality behind the Russia–Ukraine conflict and its human impact• how social media influence comes with real responsibility• the dangers of drugs, fast culture, and instant gratification• why Justin Trudeau sparked a new wave of political awareness• how media and PR shape Canadian elections and public opinion• Pierre Poilievre’s campaign strengths — and where it fell short• the impact of emotional voting vs policy-based voting in Canada• concerns around long-term Liberal leadership and political dominance• the effects of immigration and generational voting patterns• rising cost of living, housing affordability, and economic pressure• why Canada risks becoming a “rich vs poor” country• government spending, foreign aid, and the strain on everyday Canadians• the role of media, narrative control, and political messaging• freedom of speech, culture shifts, and where society is headingAlex also gives his perspective on where Canada is going — and why many people feel the country is at a turning point politically, economically, and culturally.This is a real, honest conversation that challenges ideas, questions narratives, and pushes deeper thinking about what’s happening in Canada today.Grab a casual, lock in, and let’s get into it.Host: Stefano (stefo)Instagram: @drstefohttps://www.instagram.com/drstefo?igs...Guest: Alex GlikmanInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexgmanofficial?igsh=MXA3ZmFjcDhocjE1Yg==This episode is brought to you by Canada First — secure your home with Canada’s best home fortification. Visit https://canadafirst.com/ to learn more.Follow Canada First on Instagram!https://www.instagram.com/canadafirst.inc?igsh=OGd4YjZ5enV0M2t5CHAPTERS0:00 Intro Clip + Opening0:30 Alex Glikman Intro1:31 Toronto Weather Talk2:11 Growing Up in Russia2:53 Russia-Ukraine Conflict4:39 Putin & Power5:36 Moving to Toronto7:39 Life Lessons Growing Up8:46 Finding a New Path9:13 Social Media Journey10:07 Voice & Responsibility11:11 Anti-Drug Message13:23 Fentanyl & Risk Culture14:29 Social Media for Kids16:13 Trudeau Sparked Politics18:37 Canadian Voting Habits20:02 Liberal PR Machine20:44 Why Conservatives Lost22:30 Pierre’s Campaign Mistakes24:30 Long-Term Liberal Rule27:20 Lack of Accountability28:14 Trudeau Scandals29:08 NDP Convention Chaos30:13 Free Speech Debate31:27 Culture, Kids & Schools32:46 Are Canadians Soft?33:31 Canadian Athletes Undervalued34:52 Canada vs America35:40 Affordability Crisis37:04 Carney’s Economic Claims39:10 Floor Crossing Debate40:45 Respecting Voters41:43 Corruption or Politics?42:37 Conservative Party Problems43:41 Should Pierre Stay?45:40 Why Carney Lands47:30 Carney, Trump & Optics49:37 Trump’s 51st State Talk51:14 Tariffs & Negotiation53:08 Media Narratives55:00 Canada’s Future Direction57:00 Immigration & Identity59:10 What Makes Canada Great1:01:25 Proud to Be Canadian1:03:53 The Salute