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Leaders on the Frontier

Since its inception in 1999, the Frontier Centre for Public Policy has been steadfast in its mission to foster Ideas for a Better Tomorrow. Through research, publications, educational events and policy analysis, Frontier has impacted dozens of governments and policy sectors. With Western Canadian roots and a drive to cultivate responsible citizenship, Leaders on the Frontier features discussions of common sense and good governance from this non-partisan, cutting-edge think tank.

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  1. 100

    Canadians Are Leaving—and It's Costing Us All | Kim Moody

    Canadians are paying more taxes than ever… so why does it feel like we're getting less?  Tax expert Kim Moody joins David Leis to explain why families, entrepreneurs, and investors are leaving Canada—and why that's bad news for everyone. When people and businesses move their money elsewhere, Canada loses the investment needed to pay for hospitals, roads, schools, and public services.  Is Canada taxing itself into decline? And what policy changes could turn things around? 

  2. 99

    Can Canada Protect the Arctic? Why it Matters! | LIVE SHOW

    The Arctic is becoming one of Canada's greatest economic and strategic opportunities—but also one of its biggest national challenges. As global powers compete for influence in the North, can Canada afford to keep standing still?  Join David Leis live with Robyn Lore from NeeStaNan, former Liberal MP Robert-Falcon Ouellette, and Lieutenant-Colonel (Ret'd) David Redman as they discuss the upcoming Reclaiming the North conference in Winnipeg and why strategic utility corridors, Arctic sovereignty, and economic development are critical to Canada's future.  How do we move from vision to action? What policies are needed? And what happens if Canada fails to act?  The conversation starts here but the future depends on what we do next.  Join us live on YouTube, Thursday at 2pm CT.  The conference is September 14&15.  Buy tickets here: https://frontiercentre.org/ 

  3. 98

    Why Investors Are Giving Up on Canada | Catherine Swift

    Why are investors avoiding Canada?  Catherine Swift joins David Leis to explain why businesses are leaving, investment is drying up, and jobs are disappearing. She argues the problem is caused by bad government policies.   From taxes and red tape to pipelines, mining, and government spending, Swift explains why she believes Canada has become one of the hardest places to do business—and what policy changes could turn things around.  If Canada wants more jobs, higher wages, and a stronger economy, where do we start? 

  4. 97

    Most Canadians Will NEVER Own a Home, What Happened? | July 9 Live Show

    It is now impossible for MOST Canadians to buy a home in Canada!  The latest Demographia International Housing Affordability Report presented by Frontier Centre ranks many Canadian cities among the least affordable in the world. For millions of Canadians, owning a home is no longer just difficult—it's out of reach. This is destroying the middle class.   So how did we get here? Is it immigration, government policy, zoning rules, taxes, or a lack of housing supply? And most importantly, what policies could actually make homes affordable again?  Join David Leis live with Joel Kotkin, internationally recognized urban studies expert; Wendell Cox, principal author of the Demographia International Housing Affordability Report; and Marco Navarro-Genie, VP of Research at Frontier Centre, as they unpack the latest findings and discuss real policy solutions to Canada's housing crisis. 

  5. 96

    We've Forgotten Who We Are. Here's How We Get it Back | Conrad Black

    Where is Canada actually headed?  David Leis sits down with Conrad Black for an honest conversation about Canada’s identity, its history, and the pressures building across politics, the courts, and the economy as we head toward 2027.  They talk about concerns around the rule of law and judicial activism, and whether courts are starting to reshape how laws are applied. Black also weighs in on rising frustration in Western Canada, especially Alberta, where questions about sovereignty and federal policy are getting louder.  Then there’s the bigger picture: taxes, trade with the United States, and whether Canada is still set up to compete and grow in today’s world.  At the core of it all is a simple question: is Canada still being governed in a way that works for Canadians? 

  6. 95

    Are We Entering a New Era of Online Surveillance in Canada? | Josh Dehaas

    Canada is rolling out new laws to regulate online content—but at what cost?   David Leis and Josh Dehaas, with Canadian Constitution Foundation, break down Bill C9 and many other censorship bills that are aimed at protecting children online, but raise serious questions about free speech, privacy, and government control over information.   From age verification and internet surveillance concerns to AI regulation and censorship risks, Josh shares whether Canada is crossing a line between safety and overreach.   At the heart of it is a policy clash: protecting people online… versus protecting open expression in a digital age.  

  7. 94

    Is Canadian Citizenship Losing its Meaning?

    Citizenship is supposed to be more than a passport. It's the foundation of our democracy, our freedoms, and the shared values that hold the country together.  But what does it actually mean to be a Canadian citizen today? What rights come with citizenship? What responsibilities? And have we forgotten why citizenship matters in the first place?  Join David Leis live with Dorothy Dobbie, Gerry Bowler, and Marco Navarro-Genie, VP of research at Frontier Centre.  If citizenship is the glue that holds a country together, what happens when that glue starts to weaken? 

  8. 93

    Criminals Know Something About Canada You Don’t | Scott McGregor

    Canada’s immigration policy is a train wreck, and it’s creating real security risks.  Former RCMP intelligence analyst Scott McGregor explains how gaps in policy, weak enforcement, and slow deportation systems are being exploited by organized crime and foreign actors in Canada.  This isn’t just about border control—it’s about policy failure. From ports to courts, the system is struggling to keep up, and criminals know it.  The question is simple: what policy changes are needed before the gaps get worse? 

  9. 92

    Are Human Rights Commissions Silencing Canadians? | Live Show

    Human Rights Commissions across Canada are being accused of going far beyond their original role—now deciding cases that critics say involve speech, research, and opinion rather than clear discrimination.  Supporters call them protection. Critics call them overreach.  So what are they really doing today and should they be reformed or shut down entirely?  Join David Leis live with columnist Barbara Kay, lawyer Collin May, and professor Barry Cooper as they break down how these commissions work, how powerful they’ve become, and what it could mean for free expression in Canada. What policy changes are needed to correct this?  

  10. 91

    Land Claims will change Canada Forever | Bruce Pardy

    Why land claims are raising alarm bells for homeowners.  Law professor Bruce Pardy joins David Leis to discuss why court decisions, B.C. Indigenous land claims, and government policy are raising new questions about property rights in Canada.  What do the Cowichan case in B.C. and the recent New Brunswick ruling actually mean? Why aren't property rights protected in Canada's Constitution? And what happens when uncertainty over land ownership starts affecting housing, investment, and economic growth?  This isn't just a legal debate. It's about whether Canadians can have confidence in the future of homeownership and property rights. 

  11. 90

    Have Canada's courts become political?

    From the Emergencies Act to land claims and property rights, some of Canada's most important issues are being decided in the courts. But are judges simply applying the law or are they playing a bigger role in shaping public policy?  Former Manitoba judge Brian Giesbrecht says public trust in the courts is declining and that judges have become too involved in political and social issues.  Join David Leis live with Giesbrecht, Alberta lawyer Leighton Grey, and Marco Navarro-Genie, VP of Research at Frontier Centre, as they share the growing power of the courts, controversial rulings, and what it all means for Canadians. Why does this matter? What policies need to change? 

  12. 89

    Is Canada Still a Safe Country? | LCol. David Redman

    Canada is not secure, and according to Lieutenant-Colonel (Ret.) David Redman, the risks and our "enemies" are already here.   Redman, who served in the Canadian Armed Forces for 27 years, reveals just how weak Canada's border is, our failing immigration enforcement, and explains how the courts and policing systems are not keeping up with reality.   He raises serious concerns about known threats operating freely in Canada, questions whether Canada is properly prioritizing its own military before sending billions to Ukraine, and warns that allies like the United States may act to protect their own interests regardless of Canada’s position.   What does it take to get Canada back in control of its borders, its laws, and its national security?  

  13. 88

    New Brunswick Court Pushes Back on Land Claims, or Not? | Bruce Pardy

    Did a New Brunswick court just shift the land claims debate in Canada?  A new ruling is raising major questions about how Aboriginal title interacts with private property—and whether Canada’s courts are starting to draw clearer lines after dangerous uncertainty.  Join David Leis live with law professor Bruce Pardy, as he breaks down the New Brunswick decision, how it compares to B.C., and what it could mean for property owners across the country.  Is this a turning point for property rights or just the beginning of a bigger legal battle? 

  14. 87

    The Battle Over Hunting, Fishing, and Crown Land in Canada

    Is public land still truly public?  Most Canadians don’t think twice about Crown land—it’s where people hunt, fish, camp, and get away from the city. But that access is becoming a real point of tension.  David Leis is joined by Jesse Zeman of the BC Wildlife Federation and Chris Heald of the Manitoba Wildlife Federation to talk about what’s changing on Crown lands across Canada, and why more people are worried they’re slowly getting locked out.  They break down new policy shifts, conservation rules, and land-use decisions that could affect everyday Canadians, not just hunters and anglers. If access keeps shrinking, it changes how families use the land, how communities connect with nature, and who gets to enjoy Canada’s outdoors at all. 

  15. 86

    Is Alberta’s Separation Movement Falling Apart?

      Frustration with Ottawa is growing, emotions are running high, and the separation movement in Alberta appears more divided and chaotic than ever. Court decisions, political infighting, and questions about leadership and strategy are leaving many Albertans asking: what’s actually going on?  Is there a real plan behind the movement—or is this spiraling out of control? And instead of dismissing the anger, should Canada be addressing the policy issues driving people toward separation in the first place?  Join David Leis live with Cory Morgan, author and contributor with the Western Standard, and Marco Navarro-Genie, VP of Research at Frontier Centre, as they unpack the growing tensions, the political fallout, and what could happen next. 

  16. 85

    Why Canada Feels Broken and What Could Change It | Mike de Jong

    Former BC Finance Minister Mike de Jong has spent years inside government making real budget decisions during economic stress and crisis periods in British Columbia. He reflects on what actually worked in office, balancing budgets, managing deficits, and dealing with the political pressure that comes with long-term planning.  He also breaks down where policy is creating roadblocks today, especially around housing, LNG, investment, and uncertainty over land and regulation. But it’s not just criticism, he also explains what a realistic path forward looks like if governments focus again on growth, investment, and clear rules. 

  17. 84

    Pipeline Deal Could Change Canada... If It Gets Built

    Another pipeline promise but will this one actually get built?  Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and Prime Minister Mark Carney say a new oil pipeline from Alberta through B.C. is moving ahead, with construction expected to begin in 2027. But after years of delays, political battles, and cancelled projects, many Canadians are asking: is this finally happening, or is it another empty promise?  How would a new pipeline impact Canada’s economy, energy security, jobs, and cost of living? And what obstacles still stand in the way?  Join David Leis live with Dan McTeague, President of Canadians for Affordable Energy, and Chris Bloomer, former CEO of the Canadian Energy Pipeline Association, as they break down what this project could mean for Canada’s future and share policy solutions. 

  18. 83

    Why America Is Frustrated With Canada | Pete Hoekstra

    U.S. Ambassador to Canada Pete Hoekstra joins David Leis for a blunt conversation about trade, pipelines, critical minerals, China, and why the U.S. is growing frustrated with Canada’s direction.  Hoekstra says America wants to partner with Canada, grow prosperity, protect freedoms, and build major projects together, but warns the relationship is being tested by harmful policies, trade barriers, and political decisions coming out of Ottawa.  He says the U.S. is taking Canada’s words seriously and shares what closer ties with China could mean for Canada’s future.

  19. 82

    Canada's Immigration Crisis Is Affecting Your Future

    Is Canada’s immigration system out of control and why does it feel like no one is fixing it?  Housing costs are climbing, services are stretched, and more Canadians are asking the same question: what changed, and can this still be fixed?  Join David Leis live with Riley Donovan, researcher and journalist, and Marco Navarro-Genie, VP of Research at Frontier Centre, as they break down what’s really going on, why it matters right now, and what policy changes could actually turn things around. 

  20. 81

    Can Land Claims Affect Your Property?

    There’s a lot happening right now with Aboriginal land claims and policies like DRIPA, but most Canadians aren’t sure what it actually means. Does it affect private property? Does it create uncertainty for homeowners or investors?  Join David Leis live with Tom Isaac, B.C. lawyer focused on Aboriginal law, and Bruce Hallsor, real estate lawyer, as they walk through what’s happening, what it means in plain language, and what Canadians should be watching for next.  If you own property, plan to, or care about where the country is headed, this one matters. 

  21. 80

    Why Is Life in Canada So Expensive?

    Life in Canada is getting more expensive, and a lot of people are asking why.  David Leis talks with former trade minister Ed Fast about what’s happening with Canada’s economy right now—from trade with the U.S. to rising costs at home.  They break down why Canada is struggling to keep up in a fast-changing world, and what it means for jobs, prices, and the future. You'll want to hear this.  

  22. 79

    Is Canada "Going Down the Tubes"?

    Is Canada still a good place to do business?  More companies are holding back investment or moving it elsewhere. That means fewer opportunities, slower growth, and pressure on jobs and living standards.  Why is this happening? What’s driving capital out of Canada? And what policy changes could help turn things around?  Join David Leis live with Catherine Swift, President of the Coalition of Concerned Manufacturers & Businesses of Canada, and Ron Koslowsky, business and investment strategist, as they talk through what’s going on and what Canada needs to do next. 

  23. 78

    The Truth About Canada’s Immigration Crisis

    Canada’s immigration system is under serious pressure, and people are starting to notice.  Record-high immigration levels, a strained housing market, and growing concerns about fraud and public safety are forcing a tough question: is the system working the way it should?  Researcher and journalist Riley Donovan breaks down what’s changed, what the latest reports are revealing, and why this debate is no longer avoidable. From temporary foreign workers to citizenship rules and labour shortages, the policies shaping Canada today will define what the country looks like tomorrow. What policy changes need to happen? 

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Since its inception in 1999, the Frontier Centre for Public Policy has been steadfast in its mission to foster Ideas for a Better Tomorrow. Through research, publications, educational events and policy analysis, Frontier has impacted dozens of governments and policy sectors. With Western Canadian roots and a drive to cultivate responsible citizenship, Leaders on the Frontier features discussions of common sense and good governance from this non-partisan, cutting-edge think tank.

HOSTED BY

Return to Reason

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Leaders on the Frontier have?

Leaders on the Frontier currently has 23 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Leaders on the Frontier about?

Since its inception in 1999, the Frontier Centre for Public Policy has been steadfast in its mission to foster Ideas for a Better Tomorrow. Through research, publications, educational events and policy analysis, Frontier has impacted dozens of governments and policy sectors. With Western Canadian...

How often does Leaders on the Frontier release new episodes?

Leaders on the Frontier has 23 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Leaders on the Frontier?

You can listen to Leaders on the Frontier on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Leaders on the Frontier?

Leaders on the Frontier is created and hosted by Return to Reason.
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