The Honourable and The Hack

Every spring, the government of Newfoundland and Labrador tables a budget. The public sees the highlights. What they don't see is everything that happens behind the lock-up door — and what the numbers actually mean once you know how to read them. Andrew Parsons has been on the inside — as a cabinet minister who helped build budgets. Alex Bill has been on the outside — as a journalist locked in a room with binders, no phone, and a deadline. In Episode 21, they bring both perspectives to NL's Budget 2026 for an analysis you won't hear anywhere else. In this episode: • What a budget lock-up actually is — and why it exists • The experience from both sides of the table: cabinet minister vs. journalist • A breakdown of the key numbers in NL's Budget 2026 • What the government is prioritizing — and what they're not saying out loud • The deficit, debt servicing, and what it means for the province's financial future • What insiders watch for that the public never notices • The political strategy behind how budgets are presented and messaged • Andrew's honest take on what he would have done differently Whether you're a political junkie, a concerned taxpayer, or just someone who wants to understand where the money goes — this is the episode that actually explains it. Mailbag: [email protected] Stay Connected: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHack Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7LkQE67ItNWoKWlcBbhQmy Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-honourable-and-the-hack/id1864962121 Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

He went from a gas station in rural Newfoundland to 300+ restaurants, a Blue Jays concession at Rogers Centre, and a 289-page report on one of the most consequential financial deals in NL history. Greg Roberts — the man behind Mary Brown's and Fat Bastard Burrito — joins Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill for a conversation you won't find anywhere else.Greg Roberts is arguably one of the most successful private business leaders in Newfoundland and Labrador history. In this episode, he pulls back the curtain on the real story — from leveraging his family home to acquire the Mary Brown's parent company, to keeping employee turnover at 35% in an industry that averages over 100%.In this episode:• The origin story: From Cards Harbour to a CA firm to a gas station in rural NL• Why he leveraged everything — including a second mortgage on the family home — to acquire the Mary Brown's parent company• 300+ Canadian restaurants, Fat Bastard Burrito, and expansion into five countries• How the Toronto Blue Jays partnership changed Mary Brown's national profile — and what he learned the hard way about the World Series• The behavioural science philosophy behind industry-low employee turnover (35% vs. the 85–125% industry average)• Why 90% of Mary Brown's franchisees are new Canadians — and why he says that's one of the brand's greatest strengths• The Mary Brown Centre, the Raptors, and why sports sponsorships are central to the brand's strategy• Greg's unfiltered, numbers-driven take on the Churchill Falls / Gull Island negotiations with Hydro Quebec — and why he wrote a 289-page financial analysis on the deal• Why he believes the 2041 deadline makes this the defining economic issue of our generation in NL• The Hurricane Fiona benefit concert and what Greg does quietly that he never talks aboutWhether you're a business leader, a political observer, or just a Newfoundlander who wants the real deal — this one's essential listening.Mailbag: [email protected] Connected:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHackSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7LkQE67ItNWoKWlcBbhQmyApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-honourable-and-the-hack/id1864962121Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

What does it take to help build one of the biggest comedy success stories Canada has ever produced?In this episode of The Honourable & The Hack, Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill sit down with Andrew Barnsley — Emmy and Golden Globe-winning producer, CEO of Project 10 Productions, and one of the producers behind Schitt’s Creek and Son of a Critch.Barnsley takes us inside the real business of television: how producers find ideas, build projects, raise financing, assemble talent, and turn creative concepts into shows that can reach audiences around the world. He shares the story of his first big break, the call that helped lead him to Schitt’s Creek, and the slow-build journey that turned it from a smart Canadian comedy into a global hit.The conversation also dives into Son of a Critch, Barnsley’s deep personal ties to Newfoundland and Labrador, and why the province has the potential to become a much bigger force in film and television production. From tax credits and infrastructure to talent, training, and access, this is a fascinating look at the creative and economic side of the screen industry.If you love Schitt’s Creek, care about Canadian storytelling, or want a behind-the-scenes look at how hit television really gets made, this is an episode you will want to watch.If you enjoy conversations that mix politics, culture, business, and real stories from accomplished guests, make sure to like, comment, and subscribe.Mailbag: [email protected]: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

Social media was supposed to make politics more accessible. In many ways, it did. But it also opened the door to something much uglier.In this episode of The Honourable & The Hack, Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill pull back the curtain on the darkest side of political life online — the trolls, the pile-ons, the private messages turned public, and the kind of personal attacks that go far beyond disagreement. Andrew opens up about the moment social media stopped being a tool for connection and started becoming something far more toxic.Among the most disturbing examples is the appalling post that said Andrew’s wife “deserved” her serious illness because of political decisions he had made. It was not criticism. It was cruelty. And for Andrew and Alex, it stands as one of the clearest examples of how political discourse on social media has crossed the line from public debate into something deeply personal, vicious, and dehumanizing.The conversation explores what it feels like to watch attacks like that spread online, to see cruel posts gain traction, and to notice former friends, acquaintances, and even family members showing up in the likes and comments under content that never should have been tolerated in the first place. Andrew talks about how, after a certain point, he stopped responding altogether — not because people disagreed with him, but because the tone had shifted into something far darker.Andrew reflects on how Facebook once gave him a direct and effective way to connect with constituents across a large rural district, especially during emergencies, in ways politicians of earlier generations never had. But after the 2016 budget, things changed. The trolls came out in force. Private messages were screenshotted and posted publicly. Public anger aimed at government became more personal, more vicious, and more public. Then came COVID, when things got even worse and online behaviour became even more extreme.The episode also looks at the broader impact of this culture on politics itself. Andrew explains that when he moved from opposition into government, he consciously tried to shift away from the usual attack politics and take a more measured, more responsible approach. Alex argues that today’s Newfoundland and Labrador government still shows signs of carrying its opposition guerrilla tactics into office — that the edge is still there, and the blades never really got put away. That leads to a bigger question: whether parties eventually learn that permanent attack mode has a shelf life.They also discuss why the abuse often seems even worse for women in politics, how words like crook get thrown around so casually on social media, and how platforms like Facebook and Twitter have blurred the line between political criticism, mob behaviour, and outright dehumanization. It is a theme that has come up before on The Honourable & The Hack, with guests like David Cochrane also reflecting on how social media has changed public life, damaged political discourse, and pushed parts of it into deeply troubling territory.This is a candid, revealing, and at times disturbing conversation about trolling, online abuse, political discourse, social media, and the collapse of basic human decency in public life.Mailbag: [email protected] Connected:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHackSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7LkQE67ItNWoKWlcBbhQmyApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-honourable-and-the-hack/id1864962121Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

What does it take to build a business empire in Newfoundland — and what does it actually cost? In this episode of The Honourable and The Hack, we sit down with John Steele — CEO of Long Play Capital, owner of Steele Hotels, President of Brigus Production Company, and one of the most recognizable names in Newfoundland and Labrador's business and cultural landscape. John is the son of the late media mogul Harry Steele, and he's spent decades carving out his own identity in a province where business, culture, and community are deeply intertwined.We talk about how he found his footing growing up in the shadow of a larger-than-life father, what it took to build something distinctly his own, and why Newfoundland is one of the most unique — and unpredictable — places in the country to do business.From Steele Communications to Steele Hotels, from radio to rock concerts, John's career is a masterclass in reading a room — and in knowing when to build something the market didn't know it needed yet.📩 Got a question for a future mailbag episode? Send it to: [email protected]'re building toward a full mailbag episode this spring — and we need your questions.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

Veteran journalist Ashley Fitzpatrick joins Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill for a wide-ranging conversation on Newfoundland and Labrador politics, polling, federal political messaging, and the province’s place in Atlantic Canada’s energy future. The discussion begins with the latest premier approval polling and whether public polling in Newfoundland and Labrador really tells us much at all. From there, the conversation turns to Pierre Poilievre’s appearance on Joe Rogan, the growing power of influencers in political communication, and how modern politicians are trying to reach voters outside traditional media. It then shifts into a deeper look at energy, Churchill Falls, Gull Island, Muskrat Falls, Atlantic interconnections, and whether Newfoundland and Labrador is being fully included in the national energy conversation.Ashley brings years of reporting experience on politics, business, energy, and the environment, and offers sharp insight into how the media covers polling, how political strategy is changing, and why Newfoundland and Labrador still has to fight to be heard in major national discussions. This is a smart, candid episode about what’s shaping politics in the province right now and what could define its future.📩 Got a question for a future mailbag episode?Send it to: [email protected]’re building toward a full mailbag episode this spring — and we need your questions.🔗 Stay Connected🎥 Watch on YouTube:👉 https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHack🎧 Listen on Spotify:👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/13uw982Y8Br4CvTs🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts:👉 https://podcasts.apple.com📘 Follow on Facebook:👉 https://www.facebook.com/TheHonourableAndTheHackDisclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

What can we learn from a life in the law? In Episode 15 of The Honourable & The Hack, Andrew and Alex sit down with Supreme Court of Canada Justice Malcolm Rowe for a thoughtful conversation about his career, the cases that have shaped it, and the path that led him from Newfoundland and Labrador to the highest court in the country.They discuss Justice Rowe’s early roots, his legal journey, and the experiences that helped define his approach to the law. The episode also offers a rare and insightful look at the Canadian justice system, the role of the Supreme Court, and the kinds of legal decisions that can have a lasting impact on the country.Whether you’re interested in Canadian politics, the courts, public service, or the stories behind influential careers, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.📩 Got a question for a future mailbag episode?Send it to: [email protected]’re building toward a full mailbag episode this spring — and we need your questions.🔗 Stay Connected🎥 Watch on YouTube:👉 https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHack🎧 Listen on Spotify:👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/13uw982Y8Br4CvTs🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts:👉 https://podcasts.apple.com📘 Follow on Facebook:👉 https://www.facebook.com/TheHonourableAndTheHackDisclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

In this episode of The Honourable & The Hack, Andrew and Alex sit down to catch up on the latest developments in Newfoundland and Labrador politics.The House of Assembly has opened with plenty of energy — and a fair bit of turbulence. The hosts break down what has been happening in the chamber, including heated exchanges during Question Period and the Speaker stepping in to address decorum in the House.The conversation also turns to the Bay du Nord project announcement, one of the biggest economic developments in the province in recent years. The guys offer their perspectives on the political and economic implications, and the hosts discuss what the announcement could mean for Newfoundland and Labrador going forward.Along the way, Andrew and Alex also pull back the curtain on how the House of Assembly really works, particularly during Question Period — explaining the strategy, preparation, and political theatre that viewers often see but may not fully understand.Finally, the hosts weigh in on which politicians have been the top performers so far this session, offering their thoughts on how the government, opposition, and key players have handled the early days of the sitting.As always, expect a candid conversation, a few stories from inside government, and some friendly banter along the way.📩 Got a question for a future mailbag episode?Send it to: [email protected]’re building toward a full mailbag episode this spring — and we need your questions.🔗 Stay Connected🎥 Watch on YouTube:👉 https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHack🎧 Listen on Spotify:👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/13uw982Y8Br4CvTs🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts:👉 https://podcasts.apple.com📘 Follow on Facebook:👉 https://www.facebook.com/TheHonourableAndTheHackDisclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

Episode 13 of The Honourable & The Hack features John Samms — a well-known lawyer in St. John's, Newfoundland who never expected to find himself in the middle of provincial politics.John’s time in government began when Andrew Parsons persuaded him to join the Department of Justice as Executive Assistant to the Minister. That role eventually led him into the Premier’s Office, giving him a front-row seat to how government works behind the scenes.In this episode, Andrew, Alex, and John discuss:• How John unexpectedly became a Liberal insider• What it was like working inside the Department of Justice and the Premier’s Office• The political dynamics that led to the most recent change of government• How the current government and opposition have been performing since the election• What political insiders see that the public often missesThe conversation also includes plenty of friendly banter — with Andrew and John trading a few barbs about their time working together in government — while Alex and John reflect on their days together in law school, including a debate over who was actually the better basketball player.If you enjoy conversations about politics, government, and the stories that happen behind the scenes, this episode offers a candid and entertaining insider perspective.Email the show for future Mailbag episodes:[email protected]:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

How do politicians survive a bad news cycle?What are the unwritten rules between journalists and elected officials?And what’s the story that every politician truly fears?In Episode 12 of The Honourable & The Hack, Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill take listeners inside the intersection of politics and journalism — and pull back the curtain on how stories really unfold.The episode begins with a listener mailbag question from Fraser about the makeup of Cabinet and whether proportional regional representation should be required — and whether Cabinets have historically reflected population distribution.Then the main discussion begins:• The unwritten rules between politicians and the press• What “off the record” really means• When to comment — and when it doesn’t matter• The strategic use of leaks• How reporters recognize when risk is being transferred• How to survive a bad news cycle• Why leadership style matters in crisis• The stories politicians fear most — including personal allegations and family being dragged into politicsThis is a candid look at the reality behind the headlines.📩 Got a question for a future mailbag episode?Send it to: [email protected]’re building toward a full mailbag episode this spring — and we need your questions.🎥 Watch on YouTube:👉 www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHackDisclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice.

In Episode 11 of The Honourable & the Hack, Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill sit down with Paul Lane, Speaker of the Newfoundland and Labrador House of Assembly and long-time MHA.From his early days on Mount Pearl City Council to serving in both PC and Liberal caucuses — and now presiding over the House as an Independent Speaker — Paul reflects on:• What first drew him into politics• The realities of party politics vs. serving as an Independent• The responsibilities and authority of the Speaker• What really happens behind the scenes in the House of Assembly• The biggest challenges facing the legislature this session• Stories from his time in provincial and municipal politicsIt’s a candid conversation about leadership, loyalty, and the delicate balance required to maintain order in one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s most important democratic institutions.🎥 Watch on YouTube:👉 www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHackDisclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice.

Season 1, Episode 10 of The Honourable & The Hack features one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s most recognizable voices — Alan Doyle.Alan joins Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill for a wide-ranging conversation about his new song, his 2026 tour kicking off at the end of February, and his latest book — inspired by a family road trip around Newfoundland in a Honda Odyssey.They discuss:• Exploring the “new” Newfoundland and what makes this place unique• Russell Crowe’s first visit to St. John’s• What it’s like being a celebrity in Newfoundland and Labrador• The changing business of music — and why making records today looks very different than it did in the 80s and 90s• How life on the road led Alan into acting, writing, and theatreThe episode closes with a personal moment as Andrew shares how Great Big Sea helped cure homesickness during his first days at university.Thoughtful. Funny. Deeply Newfoundland.

What does junior hockey really look like behind the scenes — and how is it different from professional leagues like the AHL and ECHL?In Episode 9 of The Honourable & the Hack, hosts Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill sit down with Glenn Stanford, President of the Newfoundland Regiment, for a thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation on hockey, leadership, and athlete development in Newfoundland and Labrador.Glenn reflects on his unconventional path into professional hockey — a journey that began not on the ice, but through elite careers in basketball and soccer, coaching, and sport administration. He shares fascinating stories from his early days in hockey, including how St. John’s nearly became the farm team of the Minnesota North Stars, long before the era of the “Baby Leafs.”The discussion draws on Glenn’s experience across multiple levels of the game, including the American Hockey League, ECHL, and now the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, with a particular focus on what makes junior hockey fundamentally different.Topics include:How junior hockey in the QMJHL differs from the AHL and ECHLThe rigors of travel for teams based in NewfoundlandThe business realities of operating teams in non-traditional marketsThe importance of education, mentorship, and off-ice supports for young athletesBalancing player development, competitiveness, and long-term well-beingThis episode goes beyond wins and losses. It’s a conversation about developing young people, building sustainable organizations, and understanding sport as part of a broader social and economic ecosystem.🎥 Watch on YouTube:👉 https://www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHack🎧 Listen on Spotify:👉 https://open.spotify.com/show/13uw982Y8Br4CvTs🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts:👉 https://podcasts.apple.com📘 Follow on Facebook:👉 https://www.facebook.com/TheHonourableAndTheHackDisclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice.

Politics in Newfoundland and Labrador — and across Canada — has picked up the pace dramatically, with a rapid series of developments unfolding over the past week.In this episode of The Honourable & the Hack, Andrew and Alex step back and break down what’s changed, why it happened so quickly, and how these decisions are being communicated to the public.The hosts focus on provincial, municipal, and federal updates — including the Conservative Party convention, early signals from the new provincial government, and five major decisions that landed almost back-to-back in just days.A central theme throughout the episode is communication: how governments explain decisions, how quickly the public expects answers, and what happens when political timelines collide with today’s rapid media cycle. It’s also one of the first times the hosts’ different professional backgrounds lead to clearly different interpretations of the same events.In this episode, we discuss:Pierre Poilievre receiving 87% support at the CPC convention and what it may signal for caucus dynamicsWhether strong leadership support could lead to more — or fewer — floor crossings“One Week – Five Decisions,” including:Infrastructure priority changes and cancelled or re-scoped projectsSenior leadership departures in consumer protection and health servicesThe dismissal of the Town Council in VictoriaThe reinstatement of a provincial tuition freezeVenture NL and the government’s evolving economic messagingThe growing challenge of aligning government decision-making with today’s rapid news cycleThe episode wraps with a look ahead to upcoming guests, including Glenn Stanford of the NL Regiment Hockey Team and musician, actor, and author Alan Doyle.

Trailblazer, Cabinet Minister, & Energy Advocate | Charlene Johnson on Politics, Energy, and LeadershipIn this episode of The Honourable & the Hack, Andrew and Alex sit down with Charlene Johnson, former Newfoundland and Labrador Cabinet Minister and current CEO of Energy NL, for a wide-ranging and candid conversation about leadership, energy, and the realities of governing.Charlene reflects on her time in provincial politics as one of the youngest people ever elected to the House of Assembly, and as the first woman to have a child while serving in Cabinet—at a time when no parental leave policies existed for elected officials. She speaks openly about the personal and professional challenges that came with breaking new ground, and how those experiences shaped her approach to leadership.The conversation dives deep into Newfoundland and Labrador’s offshore oil and gas sector, including what Charlene describes as a “lost decade” of federal support under the Trudeau government, and how momentum has shifted significantly under the Carney government. She explains why Newfoundland and Labrador is uniquely positioned to supply some of the lowest-carbon oil in the world, and why simply shutting down production does not reduce global emissions—especially when worldwide demand remains at roughly 100 million barrels per day, supporting not just transportation but medical equipment, consumer goods, and critical supplies.Charlene also discusses the importance of balancing traditional energy with emerging technologies, noting that Energy NL actively supports a broad mix of energy development, including renewable and lower-carbon solutions.Beyond energy, Charlene shares her most meaningful memories from Cabinet, reflects on the achievements she’s most proud of, and joins Andrew and Alex in an insider conversation about how decisions are really made behind the scenes. The episode wraps with a thoughtful discussion on underrated premiers, effective leadership, and how a simple “get things done” mindset can drive real progress.This is a candid, informed, and engaging conversation that offers rare insight into politics, policy, and leadership—from someone who has lived it.🎥 Watch the full episode:👉 YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheHonourableandTheHackDisclaimer:The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

In this episode of The Honourable & the Hack, the hosts sit down with Kate Cadigan, the youngest person ever elected to St. John’s City Council.Kate shares what motivated her to enter municipal politics, why she began organizing her campaign more than a year before election day, and how preparation, structure, and the right people helped turn a first-time run into a win.The conversation explores:What prompted Kate to run for city councilHow her campaign was planned, organized, and managedThe role of mentors, advisors, and campaign leadershipEarly impressions of City Hall and how council actually worksWhat surprised her most after getting electedLessons for anyone—especially younger candidates—thinking about runningIt’s a candid discussion about discipline, credibility, and learning quickly once the job begins—without political talking points or spin.

In this episode of The Honourable & the Hack, hosts Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill sit down with Eugene Manning, former President of the Newfoundland and Labrador Progressive Conservative Party and a candidate in the most recent PC leadership race.The conversation begins with a look at the latest provincial election results — what they revealed, how the parties are responding, and what the outcome means now that the campaign signs are down and the real work resumes.From there, the discussion widens to some of the big issues facing Newfoundland and Labrador, including the future of major projects, the role of the civil service, and how governments balance ambition with execution. Eugene also shares his perspective on how political parties regroup after elections — and what the Federal Conservative Party might learn from its provincial counterparts.The episode wraps with a grounded discussion about the work of the House of Assembly, including governance, accountability, and what effective opposition and government should look like in the months ahead.This is a thoughtful, experience-driven conversation about politics after election night — where strategy, policy, and leadership matter most.👇 Join the conversation in the comments:What should parties focus on now?What lessons should be taken forward federally?What do you expect from the House of Assembly in the next session?Subscribe for new episodes of The Honourable & the Hack on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

In Episode 4 of The Honourable & the Hack, Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill step back to reflect on what they’ve learned so far in the world of podcasting — including some of the feedback and listener comments that have landed closest to home.Then, they get into what really matters: what comes next.The hosts go out on a limb with their predictions for 2026, including the possibility of defections and major debates — or “rackets,” as they’re known in Newfoundland and Labrador — inside the House of Assembly. Drawing on firsthand experience, they talk about decorum in the House, how it’s changed over time, and some of the most memorable rackets they’ve witnessed.The conversation then widens to the national stage, where a series of quiet but significant moves within the federal civil service before the holiday break caught the attention of those watching closely on Parliament Hill. The hosts unpack what those shifts could signal — including the potential for a federal Cabinet shuffle and broader political consequences in the year ahead.This episode blends reflection, insider perspective, and informed speculation — the kind of conversation you don’t often hear once the cameras are rolling.👇 Join the discussion in the comments:Do you see defections coming in 2026?Is decorum in the House getting better — or worse?Are we headed for a Cabinet shuffle sooner than expected?Subscribe for new episodes of The Honourable & the Hack, where experience meets curiosity — and nothing is off limits.Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and their guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any employer, organization, or institution. This content is intended for discussion and commentary and should not be considered professional, legal, or political advice. Some discussion in this episode includes speculation and forward-looking commentary based on publicly available information and personal experience.

In Episode 3 of The Honourable & the Hack, hosts Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill are joined by Tim Powers, Chairman of Summa Strategies, commentator with VOCM, and a frequent guest on Power & Politics.The conversation begins with Tim’s family background and personal history, setting the stage for a broader discussion about how experience, perspective, and values shape political judgment.From there, the episode turns to recent developments in federal politics, including high-profile floor crossings and what they reveal about power, timing, and political calculation. The hosts and Tim discuss how Prime Minister Mark Carney was able to enter the political arena and stabilize the Liberal Party at a critical moment, reshaping the electoral landscape.They also examine Pierre Poilievre’s prospects following his election loss, and the challenges of adapting strategy and tone when faced with a fundamentally different opponent.A key theme throughout the episode is leadership authenticity. The discussion explores whether modern politicians rely too heavily on constantly shifting polling data and focus-grouped messaging, often at the expense of speaking candidly. The hosts point to leaders who have continued to perform well by projecting consistency and authenticity — including Doug Ford and several independent politicians in Newfoundland and Labrador.The episode closes with a thoughtful reflection on how political discourse has changed over time, including the growing role of centralized political machinery, rigid talking points, and a decline in professional courtesy across party lines. The conversation considers how issues are increasingly weaponized, and what that means for governance, public trust, and democratic debate.New episodes release weekly.⚠️ DisclaimerPlease note: This show is intended for entertainment and thoughtful discussion. The views expressed are those of the hosts and guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employers or affiliated organizations. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and seek information from multiple sources.

In Episode 2 of The Honourable & the Hack, hosts Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill sit down with David Cochrane, the host of Power & Politics on CBC, for a wide-ranging conversation about journalism, politics, and how major news stories are actually uncovered.David reflects on his early roots in Newfoundland and Labrador, his first steps into journalism, and the path that eventually led him to the national stage. Along the way, he shares what it’s really like to chase leads, earn trust, protect sources, and decide when a story is ready to go public.The conversation explores how scoops are made — from uncovering the details of the 2003 Newfoundland and Labrador provincial budget before it was announced, to the most impactful story of David’s career — and the judgment calls that separate responsible journalism from speculation.Andrew, Alex, and David also discuss how politics and political coverage have evolved over time, often in challenging ways, and what it’s like to be a journalist operating in an era of heightened polarization. David speaks candidly about navigating criticism, public pressure, and the realities of being on the receiving end of hostility, while maintaining professionalism and perspective.This episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at journalism, public life, and the responsibility that comes with informing the public — without the shouting, spin, or shortcuts.New episodes release weekly.⚠️ DisclaimerPlease note: This show is intended for entertainment and thoughtful discussion. The views expressed are those of the hosts and guest and do not necessarily reflect those of their employers or affiliated organizations. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and seek information from multiple sources.

In the debut episode of The Honourable & the Hack, hosts Andrew Parsons and Alex Bill introduce the show, its format, and what viewers and listeners can expect in future episodes.Andrew, a retired cabinet minister, and Alex, a journalist and author, bring two different perspectives to the same table — one from inside government and one from outside it. Together, they explore stories of provincial and national significance, going beyond the headlines to discuss politics, culture, history, sports, music, and the moments that shape our country.In Episode 1, they also dive into the recent provincial election in Newfoundland and Labrador, including the realities of transitioning governments, how cabinets are selected, and what it means to move from campaign mode to governing.The conversation explores:- The transition between governments after an election- The process and pressures involved in picking cabinet- Taking on complex legacy files as a new minister- Major policy and economic issues, including the Churchill Falls MOU and offshore development such as Bay du NordThis episode sets the tone for the series — informed, respectful, and curious conversations that explain what really happens and why it matters.New episodes release weekly.⚠️ DisclaimerPlease note: This show is intended for entertainment and thoughtful discussion. The views expressed are those of the hosts and guests and are not intended as advice or official commentary. Listeners are encouraged to form their own opinions and seek additional sources where appropriate.