Let's Talk Politics

Send us Fan MailA $29 million jet proposal is easy to headline. Lead in school drinking water, mold in portables, and classrooms so hot a student passes out during an exam are easier to ignore, until you realize they’re happening in a province that can afford better. In this episode of Let’s Talk Politics, we sit down with René Jansen in de Wal, President of the Ontario English Catholic Teachers' Association (OECTA), to unpack the reality inside Ontario’s classrooms—and what years of chronic underfunding have actually delivered.We break down the government’s claims of “historic” education spending against the reality of a billion-dollar shortfall once inflation and transparency are factored in. René explains how bundling childcare funding into education spending muddies the picture, and why families are feeling the consequences: larger class sizes, fewer staff supports, and schools being pushed to do more with less.We also dig into governance at Queen’s Park, including supervisors replacing trustees, and why that shift can weaken transparency and community accountability.Then we zoom out to the bigger stakes: OSAP cuts and student debt pressures, the risk of sliding toward U.S. style privatization, and how public education functions as an economic investment and a democratic equalizer.René lays out what needs to change now: smaller class sizes, stronger mental health supports, safer schools—especially in the face of rising technology and social media pressures—and a public commission that brings parents, students, educators, and communities to the same table.If you care about funding public education and the future of Ontario’s public schools, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Like, subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend—and let us know what you’re seeing in your local school.Disclaimer: This episode was recorded on March 30, 2026. While some developments may have changed since then, the ideas and insights discussed remain relevant.

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to move from grassroots community leadership to the federal cabinet table? In this episode of Let’s Talk Politics, host Julia Pennella sits down with Mandy Gull-Masty, the Minister of Indigenous Services of Canada, for a raw and insightful look at the evolution of representation in Canada.Minister Gull-Masty shares her journey from the Grand Council of the Crees to the halls of Parliament, offering a masterclass in how to bring an authentic local voice to the national stage. We explore the "human" side of policy—how global events ripple out to affect local communities—and why she believes the future of Canada is brighter than ever, thanks to a new generation of youth who aren't just waiting for the future; they are leading it right now.Inside the Conversation:The Global-Local Ripple Effect: Why international events and federal decisions have an outsized impact on remote communities.The Path to Power: The Minister reflects on her political journey from Band Council to federal politics and the weight of being a "first" in her field.What "Community" Truly Means: A deep dive into the personal philosophy that keeps her grounded amid the pressures of Ottawa.Breaking the Silence: The importance of Indigenous Peoples being the primary architects of their own stories and the significance of her current portfolio.The Youth Revolution: Why the innovation, storytelling, and cultural reclamation of Indigenous youth are the keys to Canada’s success.Disclaimer - this interview was recorded on March 11, 2026.Support the Show!Enjoyed this conversation? There are three easy ways to support the podcast so we can keep bringing you stories that shape our nation:Subscribe to the channel so you never miss an episode.Like or leave a comment on this video to help others find this conversation.Share this episode with a friend or colleague who cares about the future of Canadian leadership.Every share truly helps keep our podcast running!

Send us Fan MailAlberta can feel like two places at once: a province of mountains, parks, and big ambition, and a province carrying a new political tension that keeps showing up in national headlines. I sit down with NDP MLA Lizette Tejada, Alberta’s shadow Minister for Immigration and Multiculturalism, to talk through what is actually happening beneath the noise and what it means for everyday life in 2026. We unpack Alberta’s plan to add citizenship markers to government IDs and why it raises real concerns about privacy, stigma, and discrimination, especially for newcomers and racialize Albertans. We also challenge the claim the Smith government is putting forward that a marker “streamlines services” when healthcare and education are already under strain, and when added red tape costs money without improving outcomes. If you care about immigration policy, multiculturalism, civil liberties, or how governments quietly reshape everyday life, this part of the conversation will stick with you.From there we move to the affordability crisis in Alberta: minimum wage stagnation, fast-rising rents, utilities after caps come off, and insurance increases that hit households month after month. We connect those pressures to the rise in separatist rhetoric, and we talk about how to hold space for frustration without feeding grievance politics that creates uncertainty and threatens Alberta’s economic future inside Canadian confederation.Quick heads up: this episode was recorded on March 6, 2026 so while the news may have changed the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. Make sure to subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review. 

Send us Fan MailRed tape can sound responsible until you realize it often means “wait your turn” while people keep getting hurt. This is Part 2 of my conversation with Jade Pichette, Director of Programs and Advocacy at Pride At Work Canada.We’re continuing the conversation around what’s needed to modernize the Employment Equity Act in Canada and the frustrating gap between what governments say about inclusion and what they actually implement for LGBTQIA2S+ workers. We also wrestle with the question that keeps coming up in policy rooms: how do you price out policy programs when the federal government hasn’t even collected the data to measure it properly? From census data and research gaps to committees, consultations, and the temptation to blame “the previous government,” we dig into how bureaucracy slows down workplace inclusion and why that delay is a political choice more than a technical one. We also talk through the push for stronger accountability tools, including the idea of an independent equity commissioner, and why “common sense” without hard data points still matters when communities can describe the realities they face the moment they walk into a workplace.Then we step back and look at the cultural side of change. We share what it’s like to find unexpected allies across party lines, why queer and trans rights debates feel more polarized right now, and why mainstream queer love stories, even in hyper masculine spaces like hockey, can be so powerful. The thread that ties it all together is safety and economics: if you cannot be yourself at work, your opportunities shrink, and equality becomes theoretical.This episode drops on International Transgender Day of Visibility—so take a moment to show up, speak out, and support the trans community.Quick heads up—this episode was recorded on March 17, 2026.And just a few days later, a major update was announced: the National Employment Equity Council was officially launched which brings together 20 labour unions, human rights, advocacy, and community organizations all working to modernize Canada’s employment equity act framework. It’s a step in the right direction and a reflection of years of collective advocacy to make sure Canada’s laws actually reflect today’s workforce.Subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review. 

Send us Fan MailRights don’t live on paper, they live in paycheques, rent payments, and whether you can afford to stay safe. We sit down with Jade Pichette, Director of Programs and Advocacy at Pride At Work Canada, to unpack a blunt idea that cuts through the noise: economic security is the defining issue for queer and trans people right now. When money shapes access to housing and healthcare, it also shapes power, and it helps explain why backlash politics can be so well funded and so persistent.We walk through Pride At Work Canada’s top federal policy priority: modernizing the Employment Equity Act. Jade explains why explicitly including 2SLGBTQI+ people and Black Canadians is more than a recognition win, it changes how federally regulated workplaces collect data, set inclusion plans, and measure results. We also dig into the piece most equity policies miss: intersectionality. Because if the system only allows one checkbox, it fails to capture the layered realities of people living at the intersection of multiple identities—the very groups facing the deepest economic gaps.Then we get practical about politics. Jade shares what it’s like meeting MPs across party lines, why many assume the work is already finished, and how capacity constraints and shifting parliamentary priorities can stall real implementation even when the research and recommendations exist. Quick heads up—this episode was recorded on March 17, 2026.And just a few days later, a major update was announced: the National Employment Equity Council was officially launched which brings together 20 labour unions, human rights, advocacy, and community organizations all working to modernize Canada’s employment equity act framework. It’s a step in the right direction and a reflection of years of collective advocacy to make sure Canada’s laws actually reflect today’s workforce. Subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review. 

Send us Fan MailAI is supposed to make life cheaper, faster, and more productive, so why does inflation still feel stubborn and why do rate cuts still feel uncertain? Welcome to Part 2 of my conversation with Senior Economist at Indeed, Brendon Bernard. In this episode, we dig into a counterintuitive idea: the AI boom can be inflationary before it becomes disinflationary. When trillions flow into data centers, chips, and the electricity needed to power them, that investment can lift aggregate demand and add real cost pressure in energy and hardware. The payoff comes later, when AI actually reshapes workflows and pushes down the price of services people buy every day.We also pull lessons from earlier technology waves, especially the long ramp from “computers are everywhere” to the late-1990s productivity surge. The benefits didn’t arrive on day one, and AI may follow a similar timeline. We talk about what it would look like for AI to finally lower the cost of legal work, accounting, financial advice, education support, and other knowledge-work services, and why the “human touch” still matters in roles built on trust, coaching, care, and interpersonal judgment.Then we zoom in on the labor market. For many experienced workers, things can look steady even in AI-exposed occupations. For younger workers trying to get a first foothold, the picture is more complicated: weaker postings in highly exposed roles, a post-pandemic tech hangover, and a tough question about causality as interest rate hikes overlap with the rise of generative AI. We close with the policy challenge: how do governments plan for re-skilling and economic security when we don’t yet know whether AI mostly augments workers or automates whole task bundles, and whether today’s safety net is built for long-term income risk?Subscribe, share, and leave a review, and tell us what you’re seeing firsthand: is AI helping your work, changing your job search, or shrinking entry-level opportunities?Quick heads up. This episode was recorded on February 19, 2026 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded. The thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. Everything in this episode is for educational purposes only. Not financial advice. 

Send us Fan MailThe numbers say Canada’s economy is stable. Everyday life tells a different story.We sit down with Brendon Bernard, Senior Economist at Indeed, to explain that disconnect and translate the labor market data into what it means for your job search, your workplace, and your family decisions. We get into why Canada is stuck in a low hire, low fire cycle, how that freezes opportunity even when unemployment doesn’t spike, and why young workers and career switchers feel the pain first.From there, we dig into a pressure point that shapes everything from household budgets to labor force participation: childcare. Brendon shares what his parent-focused research reveals about Canada’s $10-a-day childcare policy, including the uncomfortable truth that lower fees don’t help much if you can’t get a spot. We talk about what the employment data actually shows in child daycare services, why waitlists persist, and how municipal politics and infrastructure decisions can quietly determine whether new childcare capacity ever materializes. If you care about productivity, GDP, and who can afford to work, this part connects the dots.Then we tackle the two-letter topic that keeps changing the rules: AI. We break down AI-driven productivity gains, the difference between tools that augment workers versus systems that automate entire tasks, and what that could mean for entry-level jobs, wages, and inequality. Finally, we ask why Canada isn’t seeing a full AI boom in the numbers yet, what’s different in the US, and where Canada might still win through investment, energy, and critical minerals. Subscribe, share the episode with a friend, and leave a review so more people can find the show.Quick heads up: This episode was recorded on February 19, 2026 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded. The thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. Everything you hear in this episode is for educational purposes only. Not financial advice. 

Send us Fan MailTrillions are pouring into AI, but where does the real value live—and who gets left behind? We sit down with Chief Economist and EVP Research at Centurion Asset Management, Carl Gomez to unpack the economic engine behind the AI surge, from the debt and equity financing that fuels data centers to the market incentives forcing CEOs to overhaul their playbooks. The story goes far beyond gadgets and hype: AI spending is now a visible pillar of U.S. growth, reshaping capital flows, valuations, and how firms hire, train, and compete.We dive into the market split where companies with credible AI strategies pull ahead while “old world” models face compression. Carl explains how automation is erasing classic entry-level tasks—building models, drafting memos, cleaning data—squeezing the on-ramp for young workers and widening the gap between those who can orchestrate AI and those unable to translate business needs into machine-executable steps. We explore whether this productivity is new value or a transfer from wages to capital, and what that means for labor market mobility, training, and pay.Zooming out, we connect AI infrastructure to geopolitics: the U.S.–China tech race, chip supply chains, and the policy shockwaves from tariffs and trade realignments. We discuss why bond yields have reacted to shifting confidence in the dollar, why gold catches a bid when reserve-currency nerves flare, and how alliances and export controls shape who owns compute and where returns accrue. Through it all, one theme holds: communication, judgment, and trust still decide outcomes. The edge isn’t just code—it’s the human ability to frame problems, persuade stakeholders, and integrate tools into real workflows.If you’re trying to understand where the opportunities hide, how risks stack up, and what skills matter most, this conversation offers a practical roadmap. Listen, share your take, and help others find the show—subscribe, leave a review, and tell a friend what stood out to you.Quick heads up this episode was recorded on February 17, 2026 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. Also everything we talk about in this episode is for educational purposes only and its not financial advice.

Send us Fan MailA housing boom can feel like prosperity—until the numbers stop adding up.We sat down with chief economist and EVP Research at Centurion Asset Management, Carl Gomez to examine Canada’s great housing reset and why an economy so tied to mortgages, pre-sales, and condo construction is now confronting record-low business investment and stagnant productivity. From Toronto to Vancouver, investor-driven micro-units crowd the skyline while families search for livable, mid-sized homes. That mismatch sits at the heart of today’s slowdown: oversupply where demand is thin, and scarcity where people actually want to grow.We trace how the last decade funneled capital toward residential investment and away from machinery, software, and R&D, and what that trade-off means for wages, growth, and resilience. Carl explains why resets can take close to a decade, how absorption rates signal a long clearing process, and why rents and prices may still need to adjust before the market balances. We also dig into the smarter personal finance playbook for 2026: when renting can beat buying, how to weigh mobility and opportunity cost, and what it really takes to build wealth outside of a single leveraged asset.Policy isn’t off the hook. We break down Nova Scotia’s first-time buyer pilot and the broader risks of demand-side boosts that pull tomorrow’s buyers into today’s market while socializing downside. Then we pivot to the structural fixes: unlocking the missing middle, reforming development charges, streamlining approvals near transit, and creating conditions for firms to scale at home. With U.S. industrial policy reshaping supply chains and the AI boom accelerating, Canada faces a choice—double down on housing as a growth crutch or invest in productivity that compounds.If our take on housing, affordability, and productivity got you thinking, tap follow, share this episode with a friend, and leave a quick review so more listeners can find the show. Your support helps us bring sharper conversations to your feed every week.Quick heads up this episode was recorded on February 17, 2026 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. Also everything we talk about in this episode is for educational purposes and not to be taken as financial advice.

Send us Fan MailPrices climbed faster than paychecks, bonds rewrote the cost of money, and the old promises of globalization fell apart in plain sight. We sit down with Carl Gomez, chief economist and EVP of research at Centurion Asset Management, to map the Great Reset: why term premiums are back, why “higher for longer” isn’t just a headline, and how a K-shaped economy is sorting winners and strugglers by birth year and balance sheet.Carl brings decades across capital markets and real estate research to explain how a security-first world reshapes inflation, borrowing, and asset values. We dig into the mechanics of bond repricing, the end of the consumer nirvana powered by offshoring, and why models fail when human behaviour shifts under stress. Then we get practical: what rising mortgage resets mean for Canadian households, why the math isn't mathing anymore, and how to think about liquidity, risk, and timing when the future carries fatter tails.The conversation also explores generational pivots in spending and work. Gen Z and millennials are choosing mobility and experiences over 25-year mortgages, while AI squeezes entry-level roles and pushes new skill paths, from trades to creator economies. We compare North America’s aging demographics with emerging markets building middle classes, and we unpack how immigration policy whiplash hits growth and housing supply. Through it all, we focus on what actually helps: budgeting with stress tests, building compound skills, and demanding policy that raises productivity instead of chasing headlines.If you’re rethinking housing, career moves, or investments in a higher-rate world, this is your field guide. Listen, share with a friend who needs a new playbook, and leave a review to tell us what you’re changing first.Quick heads up this episode was recorded on February 17, 2026 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. Also everything we talk about in this episode is for educational purposes and vibes only its not financial advice.

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to Season 2 of Let’s Talk Politics.And welcome to another year of… whatever this is.Another year where economists whisper “recession” as affordability slips further out of reach.Another year where genocide plays out on our phone screens in real time. Another year of rising global tension, where democracies are stress-tested daily and “World War III” no longer feels entirely hypothetical.Wildfires. Hurricanes. Climate disasters intensifying — while some politicians still debate whether climate change is real.And on top of it all, we’re racing into an AI revolution that will reshape power, labour, and security faster than our institutions can keep up.I know you’re doom-scrolling.I know you’re overwhelmed.I know you feel powerless.So do I.But here’s my promise this season: we’re going to talk about it.Not scripted talking points. Not rage bait. Not partisan spin.Real dialogue. Real experts. No BS.Because talking is how we practice democracy — even when we disagree. Democracy doesn’t collapse overnight. It erodes in silence. It erodes when we disengage. When we retreat into our corners of the internet because politics feels too messy, too polarizing, too exhausting.And yes — it is exhausting.But opting out doesn’t protect democracy. Participating does.This season, I’m bringing you the experts’ experts — economists decoding the markets, policy thinkers who understand how government actually works, political insiders who know how power really moves.We’ll break down what’s happening so you can move from anxiety to analysis.And we’ll look to history, too — because there are literal playbooks for moments like this: create fear, control the narrative, move fast in chaos, consolidate power while everyone else is disoriented.Knowledge is power. That’s why media and education are often the first targets when power wants fewer questions asked. Informed citizens are harder to manipulate. Informed citizens demand accountability. Informed citizens uphold democracy simply by participating in it.This podcast isn’t about telling you what to think.It’s about giving you the tools to think.So take these conversations to your dinner table.To your after-work drinks.To your group chats.Because democracy isn’t just something we inherit.It’s something we practice.And one of the simplest — most radical — ways to practice it…is to talk.So Let’s Talk Politics.

Send us Fan MailThis is part 2 of my conversation on all things manufacturing and industrialization with Alex Greco, Senior Director of Manufacturing and Value Chains at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.Manufacturing's future in Canada hinges not on machines but on people. The sector faces what Alex describes as a "skills mismatch" rather than just a labor shortage. While companies struggle to find workers, the real challenge lies in finding people with the right skills in data analysis, cybersecurity, electronics, and robotics that modern manufacturing demands.Solving this requires a multi-faceted approach, says Alex and includes developing programs directly linked to industry needs, creating ongoing learning and reskilling initiatives for current workers, expanding STEM and trades education in schools, and aligning immigration policies to bring in high-demand skilled workers. A national workforce strategy emerges as the critical missing piece—one that introduces manufacturing to students early, streamlines credential recognition, and creates clear career pathways into the sector.Alex also points to the power of government procurement and how it represents a powerful yet underutilized tool for building manufacturing resilience. With federal spending around $20 billion annually, shifting from low-cost to strategic purchasing could drive demand for domestic innovation. Reforming the RFP process to incentivize local content and partnerships with Canadian companies would give manufacturers the runway they need to scale new technologies. As Greco puts it, "Every dollar spent by government is a vote for the kind of economy we want." This philosophy extends to addressing forced labor in supply chains and building defense manufacturing capabilities to meet Canada's ambitious NATO commitments. The path forward requires coherence and urgency—building not just for trade, but for Canada's economic future across all provinces and territories.Quick heads up, this episode was recorded on August 6, 2025 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant.Check out the Canadian Chamber of Commerce's Work:What a ‘patent box’ is and why it can help solve Canada’s productivity problem - The Globe and MailQ&A: Curing Our Productivity Paralysis Will Require Incentives, Innovation and IP - Canadian Chamber of CommerceCanada’s next move starts a few thousand feet below the ground - The HillCanada-U.S. Trade Tracker - Business Data LabHow to Undermine U.S. Manufacturing: Debunking Aluminum Tariff Myths - Business Data Lab

Send us Fan MailCanada’s manufacturing sector stands at a pivotal crossroads. With U.S. protectionist trade policies sending shockwaves through global markets, supply chains, and the manufacturing industry, the golden age of free trade and globalization is behind us. In its place is a new era where national resilience and strategic autonomy take precedence—one that demands a complete reimagining of Canada’s industrial strategy.Joining me in this episode to unpack the challenges and innovations shaping Canada’s manufacturing sector is Alex Greco, Senior Director of Manufacturing and Value Chains at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. Throughout his career, Alex has been a leading advocate for manufacturers across the country, helping to strengthen value chains in sectors like mechatronics, aerospace, and defence. From advanced manufacturing to public policy, Alex has been a key voice for the manufacturing industry at the decision-making table. Alex helps bust the myth that Canadian manufacturing is stuck in the past. Forget the dusty factory floors and ‘80s-era assembly lines—today’s manufacturing facilities are powered by smart sensors, AI-driven robotics, and digital twins that predict maintenance before problems even start. This is the cutting edge of making things in Canada—and it’s a future that needs smart policy and public buy-in to thrive.Alex highlights regulatory harmonization across provinces as a major challenge. He explains  that in Canada, manufacturers can face approval processes that take up to two years—compared to just 60 days in competing U.S. jurisdictions. If we want to foster innovation and attract investment, we need to break down these regulatory roadblocks and build manufacturing ecosystems that can thrive in the digital age.Securing our industrial future means investing in strategic sectors like digital manufacturing, biotech, clean energy, and advanced materials, while preparing our workforce for the technological transformation already underway.Don’t go too far—my conversation with Alex Greco on the future of Canadian manufacturing continues in Part 2.Check out the Canadian Chamber of Commerce's Work:What a ‘patent box’ is and why it can help solve Canada’s productivity problem - The Globe and MailQ&A: Curing Our Productivity Paralysis Will Require Incentives, Innovation and IP - Canadian Chamber of CommerceCanada’s next move starts a few thousand feet below the ground - The HillCanada-U.S. Trade Tracker - Business Data LabHow to Undermine U.S. Manufacturing: Debunking Aluminum Tariff Myths - Business Data LabQuick heads up, this episode was recorded on August 6, 2025 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. 

Send us Fan MailHunger doesn't discriminate, but our systems often do. In 2024, Statistics Canada reported that 10 million Canadians — including 2.5 million children — lived in households that couldn’t reliably afford food. That’s families skipping meals, parents making impossible choices, and children going to school hungry in one of the world's wealthiest nations.And while food insecurity touches every province, it cuts even deeper in the territories. In Nunavut, nearly half the population struggles with access to food. In the Northwest Territories and Yukon, it's more than 1 in 5. These numbers don’t just tell us who’s missing meals — they tell us who’s being left behind economically.Because food insecurity isn't just about food. It’s a red flag for deeper financial distress — households choosing between rent, medication, heat, or a week of groceries. It’s a symptom of poverty — and a signal for policy failure.Jasmine Ramze Rezaee, Director of Policy and Community Action for Community Food Centres Canada, joins us to challenge conventional wisdom about hunger and food insecurity in Canada. With passion and precision, she dismantles the myth that food insecurity is simply about food. "Food insecurity is not a food problem," she explains, "it's an income problem." This critical distinction shapes everything about how we should respond to this growing crisis.The conversation takes us beyond emergency food relief to examine the structural forces creating hunger: stagnant wages, skyrocketing living costs, and inadequate social support systems that effectively "legislate poverty." We explore how traditional approaches like food banks, while necessary, cannot solve the underlying issues alone. Instead, Ramsey-Razai presents a compelling case for policy solutions like a new Groceries and Essentials Benefit, $150 per adult, $50 per child, that would provide direct financial support to 9 million struggling Canadians.Perhaps most powerful is her framing of food security as fundamental to democracy itself. "Rising inequality, rising poverty, and rising food insecurity does and will undermine democracy," she warns. By connecting hunger to our broader social contract, she reveals how addressing food insecurity isn't just about feeding people – it's about the kind of society we want to build.Whether you're concerned about poverty, inequality, or the future of our democratic institutions, this episode offers both sobering insights and practical pathways forward. Listen now to understand why hunger persists in Canada and what meaningful solutions might look like.Check out Jasmine Ramze Rezaee and Community Food Centres Canada’s policy recommendations here:https://act.beyondhunger.ca/page/66634/action/1 What good are human rights if you’re always hungry? We need a new benefit for groceries and essentials: https://www.thestar.com/opinion/contributors/what-good-are-human-rights-if-youre-always-hungry-we-need-a-new-benefit-for/article_0c7c92e8-b3fc-11ef-b2ca-0f7c0e42a2db.html Food insecurity sources: https://proof.utoronto.ca/food-insecurity/ 

Send us Fan MailTariff threats, labor shortages, and political uncertainty are creating unprecedented challenges for Canadian manufacturers. Matt Conley, Manager of International Trade and Skills Policy at Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME), provides a powerful perspective on navigating these turbulent waters while building resilience in Canada's manufacturing sector.What once seemed settled — the free trade relationship between Canada, the US, and Mexico — has been thrown into question. As Conley notes, "You should always expect the unexpected in politics." Despite these challenges, he emphasizes that the USMCA agreement has generated billions in prosperity across all three countries, creating countless jobs and making products more affordable for consumers. The solution isn't walking away from the negotiating table but continuing crucial discussions that benefit manufacturing sectors across North America.For small and medium-sized Canadian manufacturers, specific supports are essential for global competitiveness. CME's blueprint "Securing Canada's Economic Future" outlines 17 proposals to strengthen the sector, from reducing redundant paperwork to improving tax competitiveness through investment incentives for new equipment and technology. With an aging workforce approaching retirement, addressing labor shortages requires both domestic training initiatives and streamlined immigration processes. Currently, disconnects between labor market assessments and immigration components create unnecessary administrative burdens that disproportionately impact smaller manufacturers.See the blueprint here: https://cme-mec.ca/initiatives/blueprint-to-strengthen-canadian-manufacturing/ Perhaps most critically, Matt suggests that Canadian productivity lags due to internal trade barriers between provinces. Different truck weight regulations and duplicative permitting requirements force manufacturers to navigate multiple regulatory environments within their own country – so much so that some businesses have historically routed products through the US to avoid these interprovincial obstacles. With new tariffs making this workaround unfeasible, addressing these internal barriers has become even more urgent.Conley's message to the federal government is clear: "You have a fantastic manufacturing sector in Canada with some of the smartest, most capable people willing to work hard and find solutions. Just give them the tools they need." By reducing red tape, eliminating internal trade barriers, and accelerating infrastructure projects, Canada can unleash world-class products across global markets. Quick Heads up: this episode was recorded on June 6, 2025, so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded that thought and ideas still remain relevant. Subscribe to hear more conversations on how policy decisions impact Canadian industry and what's being done to create economic resilience in uncertain times.

Send us Fan MailTrade wars have real consequences, and right now Canada's manufacturing sector is absorbing the shock of escalating US tariffs firsthand. When steel and aluminum tariffs jumped from 25% to 50%, they didn't just change numbers on paper – they fundamentally altered the landscape for thousands of businesses and workers across the country.Matt Conley, Manager of International Trade and Skills policy at Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME), takes us inside the industry's fight to navigate this uncertain terrain. The data paints a sobering picture: manufacturing has shed 55,000 jobs since February, merchandise exports plummeted 10.8% in April (the largest drop in nearly 17 years outside the pandemic), and investment decisions are frozen as businesses struggle to plan amid unpredictable border conditions.What makes this situation particularly challenging is the deeply integrated nature of North American supply chains. That iconic "Canadian" product you love might contain components from both sides of the border – meaning tariffs don't just hurt exports, they can also increase production costs. This interconnectedness is precisely why CME led a delegation to Washington DC for 23 meetings with lawmakers from both parties, in both the Houe of Representatives and the Senate, advocating for a North American approach rather than tribalistic trade policies.The conversation expands beyond immediate challenges to explore potential solutions: the renewed push for "Made in Canada" manufacturing, provincial premiers coming together to dismantle internal trade barriers, and the possibilities and practical limitations of market diversification beyond the US. Throughout these discussions runs a common thread – the remarkable resilience of Canadian manufacturers who continue to adapt and innovate despite unprecedented headwinds.Whether you're directly connected to manufacturing or simply concerned about Canada's economic future, this episode offers crucial insights into how trade tensions are reshaping our industrial landscape and what it means for all Canadians. Quick Heads up: this episode was recorded on June 6, 2025, so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded that thought and ideas still remain relevant. Share your thoughts on the importance of stable trade relationships and manufacturing's role in our economy!

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to Let’s Talk Politics! This is Part 2 of my conversation with economist and Director of the Centre for Future Work, Jim Stanford. In this episode, Stanford brings clarity to contentious economic debates and issues — from wealth inequality and corporate power to the misleading narratives that shape our political discourse. It’s a candid, eye-opening discussion you won’t want to miss.Born and raised in Alberta, Stanford dismantles the province's separatist rhetoric with insider precision, revealing how record-breaking oil industry profits have failed to improve life for average Albertans. "Real wages have fallen. They're lower than they were 10 years ago," he explains, pointing to deliberate policy choices—frozen minimum wages, anti-union labor laws, and corporate tax cuts—that prevent prosperity from reaching working people. Rather than blaming Ottawa, Stanford argues Albertans should scrutinize their provincial leaders and corporate executives who benefit from this arrangement while promoting divisive nationalism as a distraction.The conversation shifts to inflation's true drivers, challenging the conventional thought that workers' wages fuel inflation. Stanford explains that record corporate profits—not labor costs—correlated with inflation's rise and fall during the pandemic recovery. "Unit labor costs had no correlation to it whatsoever," he notes, explaining how unique post-pandemic conditions created opportunities for companies to exploit disrupted supply chains and commodity shortages.Stanford also addresses recurring anxieties about AI and technology eliminating jobs, having witnessed similar panics throughout his career. "We've never experienced what I would call mass technological unemployment," he observes, explaining that while AI will transform work, the greater threats come from changing employment relationships rather than technology itself. His human-centered economic perspective provides a refreshing alternative to abstract metrics and theoretical models disconnected from lived reality.Challenge your economic assumptions and gain a clearer understanding of the forces shaping our economy by listening to this thought-provoking episode. Share your thoughts with us and subscribe for more insightful conversations that connect complex economic issues to everyday lives.Quick heads up this episode was recorded on June 9, 2025 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded. The thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. Check out some of Jim Stanford's work here:Let’s drop the phoney Alberta versus Canada nonsense. The province has met the enemy — and it is them 

Send us Fan MailCanada at a Crossroads: Jim Stanford on Tariffs, Recession Risk, and Rethinking EconomicsWhat happens when a leading economist breaks down the storm clouds gathering over Canada’s economy? Jim Stanford, Director of the Centre for Future Work, delivers a compelling analysis of how looming U.S. tariffs could trigger a recession on par with the downturns of the 1980s and ’90s.Stanford argues we’re living through “a hinge point in history”—a moment demanding a shift in economic thinking. He outlines how Trump’s threatened tariffs could damage Canada through multiple channels: collapsing exports, frozen investments, jittery consumers, and a slowing global economy. Even if the threats vanish tomorrow, Stanford warns the uncertainty has already done real harm.But this isn’t just doom and gloom.Stanford pushes back against overblown claims that interprovincial trade barriers are costing the economy hundreds of billions, calling them political theater. The real story? Most barriers are minor—things like alcohol regulations and licensing rules—not massive economic roadblocks.And here’s the twist: 80% of Canada’s GDP is created and consumed within our borders. That domestic strength, Stanford says, offers critical resilience. He makes the case for strategic industrial policy, crediting government involvement for successes in auto, aerospace, telecom—and even the oil sands.If you're looking for a fresh, unfiltered take on Canada’s economic future—one that’s honest about the risks but clear-eyed about the opportunities—this episode is for you.Tune in now to understand what’s really at stake, and how Canada can chart a smarter, more resilient path forward.Quick heads up this episode was recorded on June 9, 2025 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded. The thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. Check out some of Jim Stanford's work here:Here’s why we will survive Donald Trump’s tariffs — the answer is right in front of us`

Send us Fan Mail​​The transformation of Toronto's waterfront represents a microcosm of urban challenges and opportunities facing major cities across North America. Tim Kocur, Executive Director of the Waterfront BIA, takes us deep into how this iconic area is evolving while tackling some of the most pressing urban issues of our time.Toronto stands at a crossroads of urban development. With housing prices soaring to globally significant levels and condos shrinking to "shoebox" proportions, families face difficult choices about city living. Kocur offers a refreshingly candid perspective on where urban housing must go: "We're very clearly only at the beginning of a generational or almost revolutionary shift in thinking about how people live in cities." He challenges traditional North American expectations around single-family homes and suggests density—when thoughtfully designed—can create highly livable communities, pointing to international cities like Seoul where apartment living is normalized across all socioeconomic levels.Beyond housing, the conversation tackles the painful reality of homelessness and public safety—issues that affect not just resident quality of life but visitor perceptions and business viability. The Waterfront BIA collaborates with five other downtown BIAs to advocate for comprehensive solutions that go beyond band aid fixes to tackle issues of homelessness, crime and public drug use. Kocur addresses the funding challenges municipalities face, contextualizing recent tax increases within Toronto's decade of below-inflation tax adjustments and making a compelling case for how downtown Toronto's success drives national prosperity.Despite these challenges, Toronto's waterfront buzzes with so much vibrancy and energy. From the Tall Ships Festival at Sugar Beach to expanded bike-sharing programs connecting to the Toronto Islands, the waterfront strikes a thoughtful balance between practical urban planning, community engagement, and vibrant tourist appeal. Kocur's vision demonstrates how urban waterfront spaces can serve as laboratories for the future of city living—places where density, sustainability, and livability converge to create communities that work for everyone.Ready to experience Toronto's waterfront transformation firsthand? Follow the Waterfront BIA on social media to discover the latest events and activities that are reshaping this dynamic neighborhood. Learn more about the Waterfront BIA here:Waterfront BIACheck out the Toronto Board of Trade report published with the Waterfront BIA:Ripple Effect: Unlocking Toronto’s Waterfront Potential Check out the Toronto Waterfront Festival Happening June 28-29, 2025 details here:Toronto Waterfront Festival 

Send us Fan MailToronto's shoreline holds untapped potential that could transform the city's global standing. Tim Kocur, Executive Director of the Waterfront BIA, reveals that what we see today represents only half of what's possible for the 10-kilometer stretch connecting Exhibition Place through the central harbor to the developing Port Lands.Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) occupy a unique space in urban development—technically agencies of the city but independently funded and operated by local businesses. The Waterfront BIA raises $2.5 million annually to support everything from social media promotion and street cleaning to major public space improvements, community events, and policy advocacy. What stands out in Kocur's approach is the BIA's role as the glue between major waterfront stakeholders. With Harbourfront Centre, Waterfront Toronto, Exhibition Place, the Toronto Islands, and Port Toronto all operating independently, coordination becomes essential. "We're the eighth largest waterfront stakeholder," Kocur explains, positioning the BIA as the glue binding these separate visions into something cohesive.Perhaps most surprising is Toronto's standing as the ninth-best city globally in benchmarks measuring arts, culture, quality of life, and urban experience. Drawing inspiration from waterfronts around the world—from Baltimore and San Antonio to Cape Town’s Victoria & Albert development—the BIA focuses on identifying gaps and crafting creative solutions. One of their latest projects included a wayfinding signage program that solved a persistent problem where visitors struggled to locate major attractions despite being only blocks away. Their Waterfront Reconnect initiative is transforming forbidding highway underpasses into vibrant, illuminated gateways to the shore.Ready to experience Toronto's waterfront transformation firsthand? Follow the Waterfront BIA on social media to discover the latest events and activities that are reshaping this dynamic neighborhood. Don’t go too far! Tim’s back for Part Two, where we dive into some of the most pressing issues facing Toronto—from affordable housing and homelessness to exciting new developments like a hovercraft service connecting Toronto to Niagara. Tune in to hear how Toronto’s waterfront is transforming into a world-class destination.Learn more about the Waterfront BIA here:Waterfront BIACheck out the Toronto Board of Trade report published with the Waterfront BIA:Ripple Effect: Unlocking Toronto’s Waterfront Potential Check out the Toronto Waterfront Festival Happening June 28-29, 2025 details here:Toronto Waterfront Festival 

Send us Fan MailMoney talks, and what it's saying about gender equality in Canada isn't pretty. We've left  $180 billion of GDP growth on the table by failing to ensure women's full participation in our economy. That's not just a moral failing—it's economic malpractice.Joining us once again to break it all down is Marwa Abdou, Senior Research Director at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce’s Business Data Lab — and what she uncovered is nothing short of sobering. At our current pace, we won't see gender equality in our lifetimes, our daughters' lifetimes, or even our granddaughters' lifetimes. Canada ranks among the worst developed nations for pay equity, with women earning just 87 cents for every dollar earned by men—and even less for women of color.The barriers are systemic and deeply entrenched. While male-dominated industries like manufacturing, resource extraction, and construction are making progress, they’re still far from being truly welcoming environments for women to enter and thrive. Women entrepreneurs face steeper challenges accessing capital, especially in the Prairies and Atlantic provinces, where support ecosystems are thinner and traditional industries dominate. And while we talk about diversity and inclusion, too often it remains performative rather than transformative.Real accountability means embedding equity goals into how organizations evaluate power, performance, and progress. Marwa suggests, this means linking diversity targets to executive compensation, establishing representation goals that reflect talent pool demographics rather than maintaining the status quo, and implementing rigorous audit systems. We need to move beyond training sessions and toward structural change that recognizes women's economic participation isn't optional—it's essential.For young women considering entrepreneurship, Marwa’s message is clear: "You belong here, even if it doesn't feel like it yet. The business world perhaps wasn't built with you in mind, but that doesn't mean you can't build something extraordinary within it." Start messy, start small, but start—and demand not just inclusion, but the opportunity to lead and transform.Listen now to explore how accelerating gender equality isn't just about doing what's right—it's about building the resilient, innovative economy Canada needs.Check out Marwa Abdou’s work here: Barely Breaking Ground: The Slow Stride of Progress for Women in Business Leadership and Entrepreneurship: https://businessdatalab.ca/publications/barely-breaking-ground/Women Entrepreneurs: Canada’s Biggest Missed Business Opportunity: https://businessdatalab.ca/publications/women-entrepreneurs-canadas-biggest-missed-business-opportunity/ 

Send us Fan MailWhat’s the real economic cost of excluding women from the workforce, business opportunities, and leadership roles in Canada? The answer might shock you – nearly $180 billion in lost GDP according to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce. This eye-opening figure represents more than just a moral failure; it's a massive missed business opportunity that Canada simply can't afford.Our conversation with Marwa Abdou, Senior Research Director with the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Business Data Lab, goes beyond the standard talking points on gender equity to explore the hard economic realities. With her background working with global organizations like the World Bank and OECD, Marwa brings data-driven clarity to a conversation often clouded by misconceptions and platitudes.The reality for women in Canadian business is stark: only 5% of CEOs in top companies are women, less than 1 in 5 businesses are majority women-owned, and a mere 2.3% of venture capital funding goes to all-female founding teams. These aren't just social justice statistics – they represent billions in untapped economic potential during a time when Canada desperately needs to boost productivity and competitiveness.What makes this situation particularly frustrating is that women face not just one barrier but multiple "glass ceilings" and "broken rungs" throughout their careers. From entry-level bias to the promotion plateau in middle management, from boardroom exclusion to disproportionate care responsibilities, women navigate an obstacle course that men simply don't encounter. The problem isn't a lack of education, skills or ambition – it's a deeply entrenched ecosystem that makes scaling exponentially harder for women entrepreneurs and executives.Ready to understand what policies could move the needle on this critical economic issue? Curious about how trade policy, regulatory reform, and a reimagined care economy could transform Canada's economic landscape? This episode offers concrete insights into how businesses and policymakers can turn gender equity from a talking point into an economic advantage. Don't miss part two of our conversation, where we'll dive deeper into workplace changes and practical advice for women entrepreneurs navigating these challenging waters.Check out Marwa Abdou’s work here:Barely Breaking Ground: The Slow Stride of Progress for Women in Business Leadership and Entrepreneurship: https://businessdatalab.ca/publications/barely-breaking-ground/Women Entrepreneurs: Canada’s Biggest Missed Business Opportunity: https://businessdatalab.ca/publications/women-entrepreneurs-canadas-biggest-missed-business-opportunity/ 

Send us Fan MailPolling has quietly revolutionized Canadian politics, transforming from occasional front-page news to a constant stream of data that shapes both voter behavior and party strategy. Political analyst  Éric Grenier joins us to unpack this evolution and what it means for democracy in the digital age."The fact that polling numbers come out adds credence, adds urgency to political conversations," Grenier explains, highlighting how data doesn't just measure public opinion—it actively shapes it. This was dramatically demonstrated in the recent federal election when daily polling reinforced a two-party narrative that contributed to the NDP's worst-ever electoral performance at just 6% support.The conversation takes fascinating turns through regional political landscapes. In Quebec, the Liberals made surprising inroads with francophone voters who have long been skeptical of federal Liberal leadership. Atlantic Canada revealed complex voter realignments, with Liberals picking up traditionally Conservative ridings in Nova Scotia while losing ground in rural Newfoundland. These shifts challenge conventional wisdom about regional voting patterns and suggest new electoral possibilities.Perhaps most striking is Grenier's analysis of Canadian voter fluidity. Unlike Americans, Canadians regularly switch party allegiances—sometimes dramatically. "One in five Canadians changed their minds over the last couple of months," Grenier notes about the pre-election period. This fluidity stems from our less class-based politics and regionalized party system, creating opportunities and challenges for political strategists.The episode concludes with a sobering look at Alberta separatism, where polling shows 25-35% support for independence. However, this sentiment appears more tied to federal leadership than a fundamental desire for separation—a revealing insight into the complex relationship between western Canada and Ottawa.Quick heads up this episode was recorded on May 29, 2025 so while the news may have changed this conversation was recorded the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. This conversation offers invaluable context for understanding Canada's evolving political landscape. Subscribe now and join us next week for another in-depth exploration of the forces shaping our democracy.Follow Éric on:X: https://x.com/EricGrenierTW The Writ: https://www.thewrit.ca/ The Numbers/Les Chiffres: https://www.patreon.com/cw/thenumberspod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWrit 

Send us Fan MailThe chronic underfunding of Ontario's public services has reached a critical tipping point, and the latest provincial budget has only deepened concerns among experts and citizens alike. This eye-opening conversation with Kelly Baker, founder of Informed Advocacy, pulls back the curtain on what's really happening with healthcare and education funding in Ontario.Baker doesn't mince words when analyzing the provincial budget's impact on healthcare: "They're showing a 2% growth in healthcare year over year. I think that's just not realistic." With an aging population, millions without access to family doctors, and emergency rooms at capacity, this minimal increase fails to address even basic inflationary costs. The consequences? A system where preventable issues escalate into expensive emergency care scenarios. As Baker points out, keeping people in emergency rooms or hospitals becomes "the most expensive way to deliver care" – creating a vicious cycle of higher costs and poorer outcomes.The education sector faces similar challenges. The Toronto District School Board (TDSB) projects a staggering $58 million deficit for 2025-2026, with infrastructure literally crumbling in some schools. Drawing from her experience as a former TDSB media relations coordinator, Baker observes that many problems are cyclical – the same issues she saw years ago continue today, suggesting a pattern of short-term fixes rather than sustainable solutions. When schools flood during rainstorms and essential programs face cuts, the consequences extend far beyond budget spreadsheets to impact student learning and community well-being.For organizations hoping to influence government priorities, Baker recommends focusing on the long-term economic impact of current underfunding. By demonstrating how proper investment now prevents ballooning costs later, advocates can frame their message in terms that resonate with budget-conscious officials. As summer approaches, this is the perfect time to reassess engagement strategies and align advocacy efforts with the government's stated economic priorities. Quick heads up this episode was recorded on May 27, 2025 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant.What's your experience with Ontario's public services? Have you noticed the effects of these funding decisions in your community?

Send us Fan MailThe political winds have shifted dramatically in Canada following a transformative federal election that has ushered Mark Carney into the Prime Minister's Office. This episode dives deep into the new government's first moves with expert analysis from Kelly Baker, founder of Informed Advocacy and one of Canada's top lobbyists.Carney's approach to governance already shows stark contrasts to his predecessor. His cabinet, notably slimmed down to 28 ministers and 10 secretaries of state, with many political newcomers filling key roles. This business-oriented cabinet structure raises questions about whether government can—or should—operate like the corporate world, especially when facing complex challenges like American tariff threats and looming recession concerns.The historic visit of King Charles III, who delivered the throne speech in Parliament, signals Carney's strategic pivot toward strengthening international relationships beyond the United States. As Kelly explains, this diplomatic maneuver serves multiple purposes: reinforcing Commonwealth ties, demonstrating Canada's international allies, and positioning the country to diversify its trade relationships in uncertain economic times.Perhaps most controversial is the government's decision to delay the federal budget until fall—a move that creates significant ripple effects for provinces and municipalities that depend on federal funding commitments. Kelly provides insight into how this budgetary uncertainty impacts provincial planning for critical public services from healthcare delivery to housing initiatives and infrastructure planning, revealing the complex interdependencies between different levels of government.Want to understand how the political chess pieces are moving in Canada's new parliamentary configuration? Listen now for expert analysis on what these early decisions tell us about Carney's governance approach and their potential impact on Canadians across the country.Quick heads up this episode was recorded on May 27, 2025 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. So Let’s Talk Politics with Kelly Baker. 

Send us Fan MailThe political ground beneath Canada has shifted dramatically. In the wake of a historic federal election that saw both major parties crack 40% of the vote, Prime Minister Mark Carney now leads a Liberal minority government facing extraordinary challenges on multiple fronts.Stepping into the House of Commons with a freshly appointed cabinet, Carney must immediately navigate Alberta separation threats, tariff pressures from Trump's America, and the delicate dance of leading a parliament where his predecessor's ghost still lingers. His cabinet selections reveal a calculated balance – enough fresh faces to signal change while retaining experienced hands to maintain stability during turbulent times.Perhaps most fascinating is the generational realignment revealed in voting patterns. The Liberals dominated among older white men– traditionally Conservative territory – while Poilievre's Conservatives captured unprecedented support from millennials and Gen Z voters. This political fluidity, where Canadians cross party lines based on issues rather than tribal loyalty, stands in stark contrast to America's hardening political divisions.Inside Carney's cabinet, fault lines are already appearing. Environment Minister Stephen Guilbeault's comments about new pipelines contradicts PM Carney's more development-friendly stance. Is this hinting at the tensions that will define this government? Meanwhile, the opposition landscape has transformed with Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre losing his own seat and now seeking redemption through an Alberta by-election.For anyone trying to make sense of today’s volatile political era, political strategist Stephanie Mitton—CEO and Founder of Beacon North Strategies—joins us to unpack the unfolding political drama and share her strategic insights on Canada’s current political landscape.Whether you lean left or right, understanding perspectives across the political spectrum helps grasp the complexity of issues facing the country. As Carney implements his first priority – a middle-class tax cut by July 1st – the question remains whether this former central banker can translate his financial expertise into political success amid provincial tensions and global economic uncertainty.Quick heads up this episode was recorded on May 15, 2025 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. Listen now to understand the forces reshaping Canadian politics and what lies ahead in this new parliamentary chapter.

Send us Fan MailThe political landscape has shifted dramatically following Canada's historic election, and we're here to make sense of it all. Political analyst Éric Grenier joins us to decode the fascinating demographic shifts that defined this election – older voters surprisingly breaking for the Liberals while younger Canadians moved toward the Conservatives.We also explore why King Charles reading the throne speech created a moment of historical significance but reveals the monarchy's limited relevance for most Canadians. Grenier offers a candid assessment: "While some people are still very attached to the monarchy, there's not a lot of passion to get rid of it, and not a lot of passion to keep it."The government's controversial decision to delay the federal budget until fall raises questions about transparency and strategy. Is Carney trying to accommodate economic uncertainty from Trump's tariff threats, or avoiding fiscal accountability? We examine both possibilities and what they mean for governance.Cabinet appointments reveal Carney's approach to leadership – bringing in new faces while maintaining experienced ministers. But the unified mandate letter signals a departure from Trudeau's style toward a more centralized governance approach focused on economic priorities.Listen now for these insights and more as we navigate Canada's political pressure cooker – a minority government facing economic uncertainty and a dramatically changed voter landscape. Quick heads up this episode was recorded on May 29, 2025 so while the news may have changed this conversation was recorded the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. Subscribe for part two where we'll dive into the evolution of polling, social media's impact on politics, and fascinating regional trends including Alberta separatism and Quebec's electoral dynamics.Follow Eric on:X: https://x.com/EricGrenierTW The Writ: https://www.thewrit.ca/ The Numbers/Les Chiffres: https://www.patreon.com/cw/thenumberspod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWrit 

Send us Fan MailWestern alienation and Alberta separatism take center stage as Dan Arnold, Chief Strategy Officer at Pollara Strategic Insights breaks down the complex dynamics fueling separatist sentiment in Canada's oil-rich province.Political influencers like Preston Manning have significantly amplified separatist messaging, claiming "a vote for Carney liberals is basically a vote for the breakup of Canada." Arnold explains how public opinion follows political leadership, potentially growing separatist support from 20% to 30%, though likely not enough to win a referendum. The conversation explores an Alberta separatist group's proposed referendum question and the contradictions in their platform—wanting independence while maintaining Canadian benefits like pensions and passports.The digital media landscape plays a critical role in this movement, with alternative media creating echo chambers that reinforce grievance narratives. Arnold provides fascinating insights into modern polling methodology, explaining how researchers don't just measure baseline support but identify which messages might change opinions and which spokespeople would be most effective in referendum campaigns.Data collection has evolved dramatically, moving from telephone surveys to sophisticated online platforms that test visual elements and measure reactions to different scenarios. This technological advancement helps researchers understand younger demographics who consume political information through entirely different channels than previous generations.Drawing from his experience teaching political management at Carleton University, Arnold emphasizes how understanding the fundamental "ballot question" driving voter decisions remains essential to political success. The recent Liberal victory demonstrates how quickly fortunes can shift when voter priorities change from cost of living concerns to fears about Trump-style politics.Want to understand what drives Western discontent? This episode offers unique insights into the data behind the headlines and why timing and messaging matter more than ever in Canadian politics. Subscribe now to continue exploring the forces shaping our political landscape.Quick heads up: This episode was recorded on May 18, 2025, so while some headlines may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the insights still remain relevant. Subscribe now to continue exploring the forces shaping our political landscape.

Send us Fan MailPrime Minister Mark Carney's early days as Prime Minister have been defined by bold moves and high-stakes diplomacy. Joining us today to unpack the fast moving political scene, is Dan Arnold, Chief Strategy Officer at Pollara Strategic Insights. The Prime Minister's first face-to-face meeting with Donald Trump provided a defining moment when Carney firmly but diplomatically responded to Trump's jest about acquiring Canada with "You're in real estate, and there are some things that aren't for sale. And Canada’s Not for Sale." This exchange, which went viral across social media platforms, reinforced Carney's image as someone who can effectively represent Canadian interests while maintaining a productive relationship with an unpredictable ally.  In today's politics, these visual moments matter enormously - perhaps more than policy details for many voters who consume their politics through social media clips rather than traditional news outlets.Perhaps most fascinating is the dramatic demographic realignment revealed in the recent federal election. For the first time since 1930, both major parties, Liberals and Conservatives,  cracked 40% of the popular vote, with Conservatives making significant inroads with younger voters while Liberals performed unexpectedly well with white male seniors. This role reversal challenges conventional political wisdom and suggests deep shifts in how generational cohorts perceive the major parties. Meanwhile, growing separatist sentiment in Alberta presents perhaps Carney's biggest challenge moving forward. Unlike Quebec separatism, Alberta's movement stems from economic and political alienation - a sense that Ottawa doesn't respect the province's industries and priorities. As an Alberta-raised Prime Minister, Carney has unique credibility to address these concerns, but navigating this national unity challenge while implementing his broader agenda will test his political skills in the months ahead.Quick heads up—this episode was recorded May 18, 2025, so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. 

Send us Fan MailThe ice-cold reality of Canada's housing market takes center stage in our latest deep dive with Chief Economist at British Columbia Real Estate Association, Brendon Ogmundson. Housing sales have plummeted nearly 10% compared to last year as buyers retreat in the face of tariff uncertainty and stubbornly high interest rates. This market stagnation, persisting since 2022, raises critical questions about where we're headed—especially as newly-appointed Housing Minister Gregor Robertson sidesteps questions about whether home prices should actually fall.What's particularly fascinating is the contradicting signals we're receiving about consumer financial health. On one hand, total consumer debt in Canada has ballooned to $2.5 trillion, with non-mortgage delinquencies surging. Yet mortgage defaults remain near historic lows at just 0.17%—far below even financial crisis levels. Ogmundson explains this paradox while warning about a potential "iceberg" scenario where rising unemployment combined with higher mortgage payments could trigger serious market disruption. The generational shift in debt philosophy compounds these concerns, as younger Canadians approach mortgages with dramatically different expectations than their parents, often relying on substantial family gifts averaging $150,000 just to enter the market.We also explore how policy decisions are shaping housing affordability, from the controversial foreign buyers ban extension to the crushing impact of development cost charges that can add up to 35% to a home's final price. Perhaps most compellingly, Ogmundson outlines how prefabricated construction might be our best hope for solving the supply crisis—if we can overcome decades of lagging productivity growth nationally.  Whether you're a homeowner, prospective buyer, or simply concerned about Canada's economic future, this conversation provides crucial insights into the complex forces shaping where we'll live and how much we'll pay. Subscribe now and join us for more eye-opening discussions about the policies affecting your daily life.Quick heads up: this episode was recorded on May 8, 2025 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. Want to keep up with Brendon? Check out his economic analysis on BCREA’s website: https://www.bcrea.bc.ca/economics/#monthly-publications

Send us Fan MailEconomic uncertainty hangs like a fog over Canada’s future — and in this episode, Brendon Ogmundson, Chief Economist at the British Columbia Real Estate Association, helps us cut through it. He breaks down the complex forces reshaping our financial landscape, from housing markets to global trade tensions.But beyond the usual indicators lies something harder to pin down: what Ogmundson calls “uncertainty as more of a vibe than something that can be quantified.” It’s a vibe that’s freezing consumer confidence and sidelining homebuyers, with BC home sales now sitting 20–25% below the 10-year average.The stakes are rising. With potential U.S. tariffs on the horizon and economic policy uncertainty measured at levels four times higher than during the 2008 financial crisis, markets are bracing for impact. Even though BC enjoys more diversified trade — sending only 50% of exports to the U.S., compared to much higher figures in other provinces — it remains vulnerable to global headwinds. As Ogmundson puts it: “We’re a small, open economy. If the global economy slows, the BC economy will slow as well.”The conversation takes a surreal but fitting turn, comparing our current moment to a Twilight Zone episode — one where fear and unpredictability rule the day. It’s a powerful metaphor for a strange, unstable era where economic “stagflation-lite,” soaring construction costs, and stalled development pipelines feel all too real.If you're looking to understand the intersection of trade tensions, housing affordability, and monetary policy — all from a BC lens — this episode is essential listening. Ogmundson’s insights go beyond the headlines, offering a grounded perspective on why this moment feels so different from past downturns — and what we should be watching next.Quick heads up: this episode was recorded on May 8, 2025, so while the news may have evolved, the insights still hit home.

Send us Fan MailThe political landscape of Canada underwent a seismic shift in the 2025 federal election, with dramatic changes from Newfoundland and Labrador to Southwestern Ontario. From historic nail-biters to unexpected flips, this episode takes you behind the curtain of a transformative campaign.Pierce Collier, a seasoned Liberal strategist with deep roots in Newfoundland and Labrador, walks us through the remarkable story of Terranova's 12-vote margin – likely the closest federal race in Canadian history. We explore how demographic shifts, particularly among rotational workers traveling between Newfoundland and Labrador and Alberta, are gradually reshaping Atlantic Canada's traditionally Liberal voting patterns.The conversation shifts to Ontario's crucial 905 region, where the once-reliable Liberal "Red Wall" crumbled. Crime emerged as the decisive issue for voters in York and Peel regions, overshadowing affordability concerns that dominated previous elections. Collier provides fascinating insights into how voter demographics shifted, with older voters gravitating toward Carney's Liberals while younger voters and certain immigrant communities moved away from their traditional Liberal support.We also cover Prime Minister Carney's first face-to-face meeting with US President Donald Trump, where Carney's firm "never" response to suggestions about Canada becoming the 51st state resonated strongly with Canadians across the political spectrum. This moment of diplomatic assertiveness gives us a glimpse into the new Prime Minister's international approach.Whether you're a political junkie, a campaign strategist, or simply a curious citizen, this deep dive into Canada's electoral shifts will help you understand the forces reshaping our democracy. Subscribe now for more insightful analysis of the stories behind the headlines.Quick Heads up: this episode was recorded on April 30, 2025, so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. 

Send us Fan MailThe 2025 Canadian federal election will be remembered as one of the most remarkable political comebacks in the country’s history. Against overwhelming odds, Mark Carney led the Liberal Party from a staggering 24-point deficit to a minority government victory — just shy of a majority — while also securing the popular vote. A sweet triumph over Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives.This wasn’t your typical election. Canadians were casting their votes with an eye on the global stage — in a world where Donald Trump’s America posed direct threats to Canada’s sovereignty and economic security. In the end, voters chose stability over slogans, experience over experimentation, and a leader they believed could stand toe-to-toe with Trump at the negotiating table.While Conservatives avoided discussing Trump's threatened tariffs, Carney positioned himself as the steady hand needed to navigate economic turbulence. As liberal strategist Pierce Collier explains, "The voters are the ones who set the issues... they told us very loud and clear that Trump was their number one concern."The Conservatives post-election response reveals deeper issues within the party. Rather than acknowledging strategic missteps, some members blamed provincial Conservative leaders – what Collier calls "loser talk from people who have won nothing." The federal Conservative party now faces a potential leadership review while Alberta's Premier introduces legislation making referendums on separation easier.This episode offers unprecedented insight into campaign strategy, voter psychology, and the delicate balance between domestic concerns and international pressures. Whether you're a political junkie or simply curious about Canada's future, you'll gain valuable perspective on one of the most consequential elections in Canadian history.Don't miss part two as we continue unpacking this historic political moment and what it means for Canada's relationship with our southern neighbor.Quick Heads up: this episode was recorded on April 30, 2025, so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. 

Send us Fan MailThe politics of education run deeper than most of us realize. When Vito Totino, a councillor on the York Catholic Teachers Executive, joined me to discuss Ontario's education landscape, he revealed startling realities about what's happening in our classrooms.Since 2018, Ontario's education system has been systematically underfunded by more than $1,500 per student annually. This isn't just a number – it's manifested in overcrowded classrooms, teachers lacking basic resources, and most alarmingly, a dramatic rise in classroom violence. Contrary to public perception, this violence isn't happening in high school hallways but predominantly involves our youngest and most vulnerable students. With over 50,000 children on autism support waitlists and early intervention programs slashed, many special needs students arrive at school without crucial therapy or coping mechanisms.Our conversation ventured into how technology is reshaping education. While social media and AI present legitimate challenges like distraction and cyberbullying, they also offer powerful teaching opportunities when properly integrated. Yet teachers rarely receive adequate training on these tools, with the onus falling on individual educators to adapt on their own time. This disconnect between rapidly evolving classroom realities and slow-moving policy responses exemplifies why having educators' voices at the decision-making table matters.Perhaps most illuminating was Vito's perspective on what unions truly do beyond negotiating contracts. As Pope Francis noted, unions serve as "voices for the voiceless," essential for maintaining humane conditions within capitalist systems. They provide crucial protection and advocacy for workers while establishing standards that benefit society at large – from healthcare benefits to workplace safety.Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply concerned about the future of education, this conversation offers critical insights into the political forces shaping our classrooms. Subscribe to hear more discussions that go beyond headlines to explore the systems affecting our everyday lives.

Send us Fan MailThe political landscape is shifting rapidly as Canada's federal election reaches its climax. In this timely conversation, Neil McKenna brings his sharp strategic insights to unpack the forces shaping voter decisions in one of the most unpredictable races in recent memory.McKenna cuts through the noise surrounding recent campaign controversies, including the "stop the steal" button incident, explaining why such political theatre might grab headlines but ultimately undermines public trust without significantly moving votes. His analysis of Pierre Poilievre's persistent struggles with female voters highlights a critical strategic failure - "Women make up probably half the country, and if half the country is not super excited about you, that probably doesn't spell electoral success."The conversation takes a fascinating turn examining how voters make their decisions - whether based on party loyalty, leadership appeal, or local candidate strength. Drawing from his extensive campaign experience in both urban and rural ridings, McKenna reveals how successful representatives like Wayne Long can transcend party identification to build personal connections with constituents across political divides.Former Prime Ministers are making rare campaign appearances, but do they actually sway votes? McKenna offers a nuanced take on the differing impacts of Stephen Harper's endorsement for Poilievre versus Jean Chrétien's support for Mark Carney. With the NDP polling at historical lows and potentially facing loss of official party status, we explore the complex dynamics of strategic voting and whether progressive collaboration might prevent vote splitting.As ballots are about to be cast, McKenna boldly predicts a slim Liberal majority government while emphasizing the importance of civic participation regardless of political affiliation. This episode provides essential context for understanding the forces at play in Canada's pivotal federal election.Don't miss the chance to vote on April 28th! Your voice matters in determining Canada's future direction.Disclaimer: this episode was recorded on April 17, 2025 so while the news may have changed since this conversation, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant.

Send us Fan MailNeil McKenna brings nearly a decade of experience from Parliament Hill, the Prime Minister's Office, and the Senate to deliver a refreshing Atlantic Canadian perspective on Canada's federal election landscape. As Senior Associate at Porter O'Brien, one of New Brunswick's top public affairs firms, McKenna offers unique insights that mainstream political coverage often overlooks.The conversation begins with a striking revelation: St. John is considered "the most tariff-exposed city in Canada." This vulnerability creates a palpable anxiety among voters whose livelihoods in export-dependent industries like oil refining and pulp manufacturing hang in the balance of Canada-US relations. While affordability remains a universal concern, the specter of American tariffs carries particular weight in New Brunswick, where economic uncertainty directly translates to job security fears.McKenna provides nuanced analysis of Susan Holtz's historic win as New Brunswick's first female premier, explaining how this provincial shift resulted from local dynamics rather than signaling federal voting intentions. Unlike Ontario's pattern of electing opposing parties provincially and federally, New Brunswick's political culture is shaped by distinct linguistic divides and immediate local concerns.The discussion takes a fascinating turn as McKenna theorizes about declining voter turnout, suggesting that information overload and constant polling create premature narratives about inevitable outcomes. His candid assessment of party campaign strategies gives high marks to Mark Carney for effectively embodying calm leadership during uncertain times, while critiquing Conservatives for their delayed pivot from carbon tax messaging to addressing emerging economic concerns with the United States.For anyone seeking to understand how global politics affects communities beyond Ottawa and Toronto, this conversation offers valuable perspective on how Atlantic Canadians are processing political messages and what really drives their voting decisions as election day approaches.Quick heads up: This episode was recorded on April 17, 2025 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant.

Send us Fan MailWhat does it mean when your very existence becomes political? When a simple lawn sign signals far more than party preference? When motherhood itself becomes a political act?Nneka Allen, founder of the Empathy Agency Inc., guides us through these profound questions in an unforgettable conversation that transcends typical political discourse. Drawing from her family's deep roots in the Underground Railroad and growing up in Windsor's historic Sandwich Town, Allen reveals how socialism and communalism shaped her worldview long before she understood political labels."If one person is struggling, it's everyone's business," Allen explains, describing the philosophy that guided her family and now informs her support of the NDP. For Allen, displaying an NDP lawn sign in a Conservative neighbourhood isn't about opposition but alignment: ensuring her actions match her values, regardless of community pressure.The conversation takes a powerful turn as Allen articulates how Black women's identities carry inherent political weight in a society built on white supremacy. "Everything I do that doesn't align with the standard of whiteness is a political act," she shares, from her decision to stop straightening her hair decades ago to the strategic choices about which spaces she enters. This constant navigation between dominant culture and authentic selfhood permeates every aspect of her life.As co-editor of "Collecting Courage," Allen discusses the importance of Black people telling their own stories to counter strategic erasure from national memory. These narratives encompass both pain and joy—a multiplicity that challenges simplified portrayals of Black experience. The oral traditions that sustained her family's history through generations now serve as tools for expanding our collective consciousness.Perhaps most thought-provoking is Allen's exploration of "radical kinship"—reimagining who we consider related to us. This framework challenges capitalist individualism, asking us to consider what society might look like if policies centered on love and community rather than profit.Despite the discouraging aspects of our current political landscape, Allen leaves us with a powerful reminder of hope: "Our power is always with the people, it's always in community." From a woman descended from those who "weren't meant to survive," this message resonates with undeniable truth—we are more powerful than we've been led to believe.About Nneka Allen:Nneka Allen is a Black Afro-Métis woman, a Momma, and a descendant of the Underground Railroad. Her ancestry includes African survivors of the Transatlantic Slave Trade who built North America through both free and forced labour on stolen land.Over centuries, her freedom-seeking ancestors forged connections with the First Peoples of Turtle Island, linking Nneka to her Cherokee and Lumbee heritage.As a relationship builder, stone-catcher, freedom fighter, storyteller, and leadership coach. In 2018, Nneka founded The Empathy Agency Inc., where she has a passion for guiding clients toward hope, purpose, and justice in their connections with themselves, others, and Earth.  Empowering wholeness and embracing humanity through empathy is her mission!Website: https://www.theempathyagency.ca/meet-the-founderBsky: https://bsky.app/profile/nnekaallen.bsky.socialSubstack: https://substack.com/@nnekaallen

Send us Fan MailThe political landscape in Canada has never been more volatile, with leadership changeovers, looming elections, and economic uncertainty creating a perfect storm for businesses and citizens alike. How can organizations navigate this chaos while preparing for an uncertain future? What does the rise of economic nationalism mean for Canadian policy and prosperity?Conal Slobodin, Vice President at Crestview Strategy, brings his unique perspective from both government and corporate worlds to address these pressing questions. Drawing from his experience at Walmart and in government relations, he offers candid insights about the growing disconnect between political rhetoric and everyday economic realities facing Canadians.At the heart of our conversation is a call for reimagining the relationship between government and business. Rather than continuing the adversarial approach that has dominated recent years, Slobodin makes a compelling case for collaboration based on mutual understanding and appropriate risk-sharing. Government programs must evolve beyond supporting only "safe bet" investments if Canada hopes to compete with American jurisdictions that aggressively court economic development.We also explore the critical issue of interprovincial trade barriers—those seemingly small regulations that collectively hamper national unity and economic growth. From credential recognition to alcohol transportation restrictions, these barriers symbolize a fragmented approach to nationhood that undermines our competitive position globally. Recent progress between Ontario and Atlantic provinces offers hope, but much work remains.Whether you're a business leader trying to understand political risk, a policy enthusiast interested in economic nationalism, or simply a Canadian concerned about affordability and economic opportunity, this conversation provides valuable context for understanding the forces shaping our national future. Listen now to gain insights that go beyond partisan talking points and get to the heart of Canada's economic challenges and opportunities.Just a quick note: this episode was recorded on April 22, 2025, so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. 

Send us Fan MailThe political landscape in Canada stands at a critical juncture as the 2025 federal election looms just one week away. In this riveting conversation with Conal Slobodin, Vice President at Crestview Strategy, we unpack the seismic shifts reshaping voter demographics and campaign strategies across the country.A fascinating phenomenon emerges as young men gravitate toward Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives while older women align with Mark Carney's Liberals—a complete reversal from the 2015 election dynamics. Social media has revolutionized political outreach, with Poilievre masterfully engaging disaffected young voters by validating their frustrations and offering pathways forward. Meanwhile, candidates struggle to balance domestic affordability concerns with the looming specter of Trump-era tariffs.The conversation takes a critical turn as we examine the surprising absence of comprehensive campaign platforms so late in the election cycle. While the Liberals and NDP have released costed plans with significant spending, the Conservatives have opted for high-level messaging—a strategy that might prove either brilliant or disastrous. We dive deep into natural resource development, particularly the contentious Ring of Fire project, exploring whether economic growth can proceed while respecting Indigenous sovereignty.Perhaps most compelling is our discussion of Northern Affairs and Arctic sovereignty—issues receiving insufficient attention as climate change transforms Canada's northern frontier. Slobodin delivers a passionate assessment of Canada's unpreparedness for defending its Arctic interests, arguing convincingly that military presence alone cannot secure our northern territories without parallel investments in community infrastructure and quality of life.Ready to understand what's truly at stake in this watershed election? This episode delivers expert analysis on how Canada's political future hangs in the balance between competing visions for prosperity, sovereignty, and national identity. Subscribe now and join the conversation about who will lead Canada through the gathering storm.Just a quick note: this episode was recorded on April 22, 2025, so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. 

Send us Fan MailGeorge Soule takes us behind the curtain of NDP strategy, revealing the fascinating disconnect between federal idealism and provincial pragmatism that shapes progressive politics across Canada. With rare candor, this veteran political strategist unpacks why the NDP appears more centrist and economically-focused in prairie provinces while taking different positions federally.Having worked directly with Jack Layton during the historic 2011 Orange Wave, Soule shares never-before-heard stories about what truly drove that unprecedented breakthrough. "Jack Layton wasn't Jack Layton until after 2011," he reveals, detailing how years of grassroots organizing, Quebec outreach, and fortuitous timing created perfect conditions for electoral success. The conversation illuminates how Layton's genuine ability to connect with voters—"eating rubber chicken in church basements" and building relationships one handshake at a time—laid groundwork that eventually paid off when Liberal support collapsed.The episode also tackles a pressing question for progressives worldwide: why are working-class voters increasingly supporting conservative candidates? Soule offers thoughtful analysis on how right-wing messaging provides simpler narratives about economic struggles, while progressive parties face the challenge of communicating how they can simultaneously support both equity issues and labor concerns. "The right just has the easier argument," Soule admits, before exploring how progressives might reclaim this narrative.Whether you're passionate about Canadian politics, interested in progressive strategy, or simply enjoy insider political stories, this conversation provides valuable perspective on how political movements evolve, succeed, and sometimes struggle to maintain their core coalitions. Soule's election predictions for the upcoming federal contest offer a fitting conclusion to this rich exploration of Canada's political landscape.Have questions about political strategy or progressive organizing? Reach out to George at On Step Strategies for expert guidance on government relations and public affairs.

Send us Fan MailMy guest today is George Soule, NDP strategist and Principal at OnStep Strategies. George joins me to unpack what the polls are really telling us, why the Liberal Party’s shift to the centre-right matters, and why working-class voters may be drifting toward the Conservatives. And of course, we dive into where the NDP fits in, from big policy wins like dental care to the recent dip in their polling numbers.In this episode, we break down what’s behind the NDP’s drop in the polls, and why their message may not be resonating with voters. We explore the growing conversation around strategic voting, vote-splitting, and how Canada’s multi-party system is being challenged by a creeping two-party dynamic. With voter turnout continuing to decline, we ask what it will take to re-engage the electorate and what campaigns can do to earn attention and trust.We dig into the media’s role in shaping public perception, including how party leaders are engaging with both traditional and social media platforms. We also hone in on the Conservative Party of Canada and Pierre Poilievre and his combative approach with reporters and traditional media. We also discuss  why his campaign may have been slow to pivot from their “Canada is broken” message to addressing the real need for a clear tariff action plan for Canadians. Plus, we look at why national polling numbers can be misleading in a riding-by-riding reality, and what the recent narrowing of the Conservative lead means for all parties heading into the election. It’s a fast-changing political landscape—and we’re here to help you make sense of it.Quick heads-up: this episode was recorded on April 15, 2025 so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. So Let’s Talk Politics with George Soule.

Send us Fan MailWhat do U.S. tariffs, youth unemployment, and your grocery bill have in common? This week—everything.I’m joined by Brendon Bernard, Senior Economist at Indeed, to unpack two major flashpoints shaking Canada’s economy: new U.S. tariffs with big implications for Canadian jobs, and a troubling rise in youth unemployment that could shape our labour market for years to come.A staggering 25% of Canadians aged 15–24 have never held a job—a sharp jump from just a decade ago. What’s behind this shift? We dig into the data and the deeper story with one of Canada’s leading labour economists.We also get into:Why job seekers—especially young people—are facing steeper oddsThe quiet drop in job postings and job hoppingHow population growth, immigration shifts, and interest rates are all collidingFrom the fading glow of a post-pandemic job-seeker’s market to the mounting pressures of a more competitive economy, we break down what’s happening—and why it matters.Whether you’re a policy wonk, economics nerd, or just wondering why your bananas cost $1.50 more—this episode is for you.

Send us Fan MailEver wonder what really happened during the 2008 financial crisis, and how Canada managed to weather the storm? Or why our housing market is so…well, interesting? In this episode of Let's Talk Politics, we sit down with the brilliant Don Drummond, a leading Canadian economist, to unpack some seriously complex issues with a dose of real-world perspective.We dive into the recent political sparring over economic leadership during the 2008 financial crisis, and Don sets the record straight about the collaborative effort that kept Canada afloat during a global meltdown. It wasn't just about one person; it was teamwork, folks! We explore the crucial roles played by the Bank of Canada, the Finance Minister, OSFI, and even CMHC, and why their coordinated approach mattered.But we don't stop there. We tackle the housing market puzzle, the impact of immigration policies, and the challenges of bridging the skills gap. Don shares eye-opening stories from his time working with CEOs and his experiences talking to workers and average Canadians across the country, revealing the disconnect between policy and reality.This isn't your typical dry economics lesson. Don's insights are sharp and his stories are real . We're talking about the human side of economic decisions, the importance of listening to diverse perspectives, and the need for a 'Team Canada' approach in tough times.Join us for a thought-provoking conversation that's both informative and deeply engaging. Because when it comes to Canada's economic future, we're all in this together. Tune in and let's talk politics – and economics – with a dose of humanity.

Send us Fan MailJoin me for a deep dive into Canada’s productivity problem with the brilliant Canadian economist Don Drummond. We explore why Canada’s small businesses struggle to scale, the policies that could help them grow into global industry leaders, and the critical need to reduce our dependence on American imports.We also unpack the key entrepreneurial and cultural differences between Canada and the U.S. and what it will take to position Canada as a top destination for business investment. Don shares his insights on the tax policies he developed during his career at Finance Canada, along with some entertaining behind-the-scenes stories from his time working with former Prime Ministers Jean Chrétien and Brian Mulroney.From tax policies to economic growth strategies, this episode is packed with fascinating insights and candid stories that every Canadian business leader, policy wonk, or economics enthusiast needs to hear. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges conventional ideas about Canada’s fiscal and tax policies—and explores the path forward.With over 20 years of experience at Finance Canada, a tenure as Chief Economist at TD Bank, and now as a fellow in residence at C.D. Howe Institute and Stauffer-Dunning Fellow at Queen’s University - School of Policy Studies, Don brings his unparalleled expertise in the field of economics to this conversation. 

Send us Fan MailCanada’s economy is at a crossroads. U.S. tariffs have exposed deeper weaknesses—lagging productivity, sluggish investment, and over-reliance on the U.S. market. But could this be the wake-up call Canada needs? In this special episode of Let’s Talk Politics, we sit down with Don Drummond, one of Canada’s top economic minds, to unpack the risks and opportunities that lie ahead with the looming threat of US tariffs on the Canadian economy. With over two decades of experience at Finance Canada, a stint as Chief Economist at TD Bank, and now a leading voice at the C.D. Howe Institute and Stauffer-Dunning Fellow at Queen’s University, Don brings deep insight into fiscal, monetary, and tax policy. In part 1 of this 3-part series, we break down how tariffs are hitting Canadian jobs, particularly the auto sector, the lonnie, and Canada’s economic growth. Plus, we dive into the big questions: How can Canada build a stronger economy? What role do policy changes, trade diversification, and productivity investment play? We also explore ethical investing, environmental policy, and what’s next for interest rates. If you care about where Canada’s economy is headed, you won’t want to miss this episode—listen now!

Send us Fan MailIn this episode on Let’s Talk Politics, we welcome David Boudeweel-Lefebvre, a recognized expert in government and public affairs with 20 years of experience in politics, lobbying, and coalition building. As the founder of Boudeweel Public Affairs, David has built a business that bridges the gap between Québec and English Canada, helping businesses and policymakers navigate the country’s complex political landscape in both official languages.In this episode, David and Julia dive into Quebec’s unique political and economic challenges, including how the province plans to protect its key industries—aerospace, steel, aluminum, and mining—from potential U.S. tariffs under a Trump administration. David also shares his insights from years in public affairs and government relations, debunking the misconception that Quebec is too complex for English Canada to navigate. They also discuss Premier Legault’s stance on economic protectionism, the upcoming Liberal leadership race, and the federal political landscape post-Trudeau.Plus, David shares expert insights on how being a native Quebecois speaker shapes voter appeal in federal politics, the rise of the Bloc Québécois, shifting voter sentiment in Quebec, and how some provincial parties are rebranding to better reflect local interests. We also take a look at Quebec’s political history—from referendums and separatist movements to the NDP’s Orange Wave under Jack Layton in 2011. Whether you're interested in trade policy, federal politics, or Quebec’s evolving role in Canada, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Let’s Talk Politics with David Boudeweel-Lefebvre.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode on Let’s Talk Politics, we welcome David Boudeweel-Lefebvre, a recognized expert in government and public affairs with 20 years of experience in politics, lobbying, and coalition building. As the founder of Boudeweel Public Affairs, David has built a business that bridges the gap between Québec and English Canada, helping businesses and policymakers navigate the country’s complex political landscape in both official languages.In this episode, David and Julia dive into Quebec’s unique political and economic challenges, including how the province plans to protect its key industries—aerospace, steel, aluminum, and mining—from potential U.S. tariffs under a Trump administration. David also shares his insights from years in public affairs and government relations, debunking the misconception that Quebec is too complex for English Canada to navigate. They also discuss Premier Legault’s stance on economic protectionism, the upcoming Liberal leadership race, and the federal political landscape post-Trudeau.Plus, David shares expert insights on how being a native Quebecois speaker shapes voter appeal in federal politics, the rise of the Bloc Québécois, shifting voter sentiment in Quebec, and how some provincial parties are rebranding to better reflect local interests. We also take a look at Quebec’s political history—from referendums and separatist movements to the NDP’s Orange Wave under Jack Layton in 2011. Whether you're interested in trade policy, federal politics, or Quebec’s evolving role in Canada, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Let’s Talk Politics with David Boudeweel-Lefebvre.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we dive into the dynamic political tactics of Pierre Poilievre, leader of the Conservative Party of Canada. We also explore the challenges facing Canadian democracy, as political discourse becomes increasingly polarizing, and how these tactics may impact public perception of democratic institutions. What’s next for Canada’s political future, and what role will social media and economic pressures play in the upcoming elections?Tune in for insights on how the Conservative Party is reshaping the political narrative and the broader implications for Canada’s democratic institutions, as well as predictions on what the political landscape could look like in the months to come.Quick heads up: this episode was recorded on January 20, 2025, so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant. 

Send us Fan MailIn this two-part episode, we break down the whirlwind events that have shaken the country: Chrystia Freeland’s resignation as finance minister, Trump’s tariff threats and bold claim to make Canada the 51st state, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s resignation, and how Pierre Poilievre’s Conservatives are seizing the moment amid the political turmoil.Joining us is Eugene Lang, a powerhouse in Canadian policy with decades of experience bridging government, business, and academia. From Parliament Hill to the boardroom, Eugene offers a masterclass in Civics 101 and shares his insights on what’s next for Canada’s political landscape.Let’s talk politics with Eugene Lang.

Send us Fan MailThis week, we're diving into Trump's claim that the U.S. is somehow subsidizing Canada. With new tariffs escalating tensions between these two longtime allies, we break down the real story behind trade deficits, why Canada isn't getting a "free ride," and how interconnected our economies truly are. From lumber and oil to Netflix and maple syrup, trade between the U.S. and Canada is way more complex than just looking at imports and exports. We also explore the ripple effects of protectionist policies, the role of NAFTA, and why "Made in America" isn’t as simple as it sounds. Tune in for a fun, engaging, and eye-opening conversation that challenges the myths and gets to the facts!Quick heads up: this episode was recorded on January 20, 2025, so while the news may have changed since this conversation was recorded, the thoughts and ideas still remain relevant.