Real Talk Ryan Jespersen

Rob's choked about being duped into signing a petition, Stephen and Robyn have spicy takes on fighting in hockey, and Deaner wants you to GET OUT OF THE PASSING LANE. Real Talkers fire up their Flamethrowers courtesy the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park. If you find yourself in need of a summer fix, look no further: The new Picnic Peach Cobbler Blizzard Treat is here to dazzle your taste buds! Visit a DQ in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, or Baseline Road today! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected]

It's one thing to have a million (or billion) dollar idea. It's another thing to turn that idea into a legitimate business. So, what's the secret to a successful startup? We talk inspiration, team building, problem solving, and growth strategies in a special Founders edition of the Real Talk Round Table. 2:31 | My Fertility Labs CEO Sarah Harper, Elev Homes co-founder Jean Bruce Koua, and Gummy Nutrition Lab CEO Jolene Ali tells us how they went from idea to startup, how they're getting past early hurdles, and the best advice they've ever received. LEARN MORE ABOUT EDMONTON UNLIMITED: https://edmontonunlimited.com/ MY FERTILITY LABS: https://www.myfertilitylabs.com/ GUMMY NUTRITION LAB: https://www.gummynutritionlab.com/ ELEV HOMES: https://www.elevhomes.ca/ 55:45 | Forget Pride...Erika has no shame! We take a look at a particularly fiery moment between Cheryl Oates and Erika Barootes on the newest episode of The Discourse as they discuss Pride organizations banning the United Conservative Party. CHECK OUT THE DISCOURSE: https://rtrj.info/052324Discourse 1:01:00 | The Real Talk Golf Classic presented by CWB Wealth is close to selling out! We'd love for you to join us Thursday, June 20 at The Ranch G&CC for Edmonton's Best Golf Tournament in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. REGISTER TODAY: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS: https://www.ecfoundation.org/funds/th... 1:04:34 | Rob's choked about being duped into signing a petition, Stephen and Robyn have spicy takes on fighting in hockey, and Deaner wants you to GET OUT OF THE PASSING LANE. Real Talkers fire up their Flamethrowers courtesy the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! If you find yourself in need of a summer fix, look no further: The new Picnic Peach Cobbler Blizzard Treat is here to dazzle your taste buds! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch RECEIVE EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates

Full disclosure: Ryan feels strongly that fighting is an important part of hockey. But, there are several compelling arguments to ban fighting from the game. We know more about short- and long-term effects of repeated blows to the head. We've lost several former NHL heavyweights to suicide, while many more suffer long-term effects of CTE. Maybe it's not surprising a majority of Canadians polled (including self-identified "true hockey fans") would take fighting out of the game for good. 5:25 | Mario Canseco gets into the nitty gritty of Research Co's polling on fighting in hockey. READ MORE: https://researchco.ca/2024/05/17/canada-hockey-2/ 31:00 | Where do you stand on toppling statues of controversial figures in Canadian history? Mario takes us into their polling on this polarizing topic. READ MORE: https://researchco.ca/2024/05/03/statue-toppling-canada/ 55:20 | Real Talker Gilles wants to know how Ryan reconciles his views on fighting in hockey and his approach to parenting. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: [email protected] 59:22 | Have you seen the new portrait of Princess Kate? How about that one of King Charles? Ryan and Johnny take a look. 1:03:45 | Real Talker Sheryl's note about our NorthwestFest Filmmakers' Round Table is one of Ryan's favourite emails of the year. Find out why! WATCH THAT FILMMAKERS ROUND TABLE: rtrj.info/050324NWF GOLFERS: The Real Talk Golf Classic presented by CWB Wealth is close to selling out! We'd love for you to join us Thursday, June 20 at The Ranch G&CC for Edmonton's Best Golf Tournament in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. REGISTER TODAY: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS: https://www.ecfoundation.org/funds/th... FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch STEP UP YOUR SUPPORT FOR THE SHOW - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates

Is the "Alberta Advantage" disappearing? For decades, the province has boasted higher wages, lower unemployment, and a lower cost of living than the rest of Canada. But the numbers show a troubling trend. We investigate what's behind it, and what the future could look like, in this episode of Real Talk. 3:03 | Why is Alberta's minimum wage the lowest in the country? Why aren't private sector workers sharing in their employers' record profits? Is Alberta inherently anti-union? Economist Dr. Jim Stanford takes us into his report, "Alberta's Disappearing Advantage". READ THE REPORT: https://afl.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Alberta-Disappearing-Advantage-Jim-Stanford.pdf 42:15 | It's the perfect time of year to spot wildlife in Jasper! We feature some amazing options to tour, hike, or paddle your way to the perfect photograph in #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. BOOK YOUR JASPER GETAWAY: https://www.jasper.travel/ 44:48 | Can Justin Trudeau possibly regain ground he's lost to Pierre Poilievre? What do the Alberta NDP's new membership numbers mean for its leadership race? Could Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe lose his job? What the heck is going on in B.C. politics? And, is Quebec really trending toward another referendum? 338Canada's Philippe Fournier joins us from Montreal. CHECK OUT PHILIPPE'S SUBSTACK: https://www.338canada.ca/ 1:23:05 | We're celebrating 10,000 followers on our RealTalkRJ TikTok! Ryan and Johnny revisit our recent post about a political mixer aimed at "youth" aged 14-25. SGT. KERRY SHIMA ON REAL TALK: https://rtrj.info/070422Shima GOLFERS: The Real Talk Golf Classic presented by CWB Wealth is close to selling out! We'd love for you to join us Thursday, June 20 at The Ranch G&CC for Edmonton's Best Golf Tournament in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. REGISTER TODAY: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS: https://www.ecfoundation.org/funds/th... FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch STEP UP YOUR SUPPORT FOR THE SHOW - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates

Is this strike three for House Speaker Greg Fergus? The Opposition Conservatives are crying foul after yet another partisan display from the Liberal MP serving in what's supposed to be a non-partisan role. Ryan and Charles Adler debate whether or not it's time for Fergus to go (13:30). But first... 3:30 | How bad are the optics around a political "youth mixer" aimed at 14-25 year olds? (Just kidding..they're SUPER BAD). Ryan, Chuck, and Johnny talk about a now-cancelled event planned in Clive, Alberta. We get into the Fergus flare-up (13:30) before touching on the question everybody's asking: can the Edmonton Oilers beat the Dallas Stars (22:20)? Later in the show, Ryan asks Charles if the death of Iran's president and a potential International Criminal Court date for Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu could advance peace in the Middle East (37:00). We wrap with an update on serial killer Robert Pickton (39:50). 47:00 | Who doesn't love a good reunion story? Shout out to Real Talker Brinley for passing along a feel-good story out of Australia. It's perfect for Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy! SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ GOLFERS: The Real Talk Golf Classic presented by CWB Wealth is close to selling out! We'd love for you to join us Thursday, June 20 at The Ranch G&CC for Edmonton's Best Golf Tournament in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. REGISTER TODAY: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS: https://www.ecfoundation.org/funds/th... FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch STEP UP YOUR SUPPORT FOR THE SHOW - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates

KP says police were right to break up campus demonstrations, Jeff says Charles Adler's out to lunch on Jerry Seinfeld, Dave calls out Jespo for "slimy old tricks," Todd has a message for The Discourse host Erika Barootes, Ron says the Liberals have themselves to blame for poor polling, and Rene says Pierre Poilievre and Gil McGowan have something in common. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] When you visit the Dairy Queens in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, make sure you tell 'em Real Talk sent you!

Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi and Chamber of Commerce CEO Doug Griffiths visit the Real Talk studio for a candid conversation about the present and future of Alberta's capital city. 3:07 | The State of the City: we talk about Edmonton's population growth (100,000 new residents over the past two years!), the housing crunch, strains on social services, a 9% property tax hike, challenges in the downtown core, trends in transit ridership, Council's relationship with the provincial government, the new TAPYEG political party, and Premier Danielle Smith's musings about expanding rail service across Alberta. EDMONTON CHAMBER OF COMMERCE: https://www.edmontonchamber.com/ 1:07:05 | KP says police were right to break up campus demonstrations, Jeff says Charles Adler's out to lunch on Jerry Seinfeld, Dave calls out Jespo for "slimy old tricks," Todd has a message for The Discourse host Erika Barootes, Ron says the Liberals have themselves to blame for poor polling, and Rene says Pierre Poilievre and Gil McGowan have something in common. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] When you visit the Dairy Queens in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, make sure you tell 'em Real Talk sent you! GOLFERS: The Real Talk Golf Classic presented by CWB Wealth is close to selling out! We'd love for you to join us Thursday, June 20 at The Ranch G&CC for Edmonton's Best Golf Tournament in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. REGISTER TODAY: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS: https://www.ecfoundation.org/funds/th... FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Premier Doug Ford's government is prepared to wage war on the City of Toronto if it proceeds with plans to decriminalize minor possession of hard drugs. This, as Premier David Eby's government in British Columbia is all but trashing its plan to do the exact same thing. What's the right move, amid an opioid crisis that's killed 43,000 Canadians since 2016? We get into it (36:25) in this episode, in addition to a whole bunch of your feedback on city building, cancer, journalism, research funding, and the pains of parenting. 4:56 | Who would have thought rezoning bylaws could light a fire under so many people? Ryan and Johnny circle back on Calgary's marathon (sixteen-day!) Council meeting, and your response to our May 15, 2024 Real Talk Round Table on placemaking. WATCH THAT EPISODE: https://rtrj.info/051524RTRT 20:11 | RIP Dutchy. Ryan and Johnny celebrate the life and career of Darren Dutchyshen, dead at 57. 30:12 | Why are so many young people dying from Cancer? Ryan reads an email from Real Talker Harry. 36:25 | Ontario's PC government says it'll fight Toronto tooth and nail if the city proceeds with plans to decriminalize possession of small amounts of illicit drugs. We revisit our recent conversation with Guy Felicella and Mo Amir about B.C. recriminalizing possession, and how the two stories fit together. GUY AND MO ON REAL TALK: rtrj.info/050824BCPOLI 54:10 | How can we stop journalism from dying a slow death in Canada? Real Talker Shane has a few thoughts after our May 14, 2024 interview with Amber Bracken. AMBER ON REAL TALK: rtrj.info/051424Bracken LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK: [email protected] 1:00:45 | Maybe it's not such a bad thing after all for Premier Danielle Smith's government to review how research is funded at Alberta post-secondaries. Real Talker Cyril makes the case. REAL TALK ROUND TABLE ON BILLS 18 & 20: rtrj.info/041624RTRT 1:11:03 | We wrap the show with powerful messages from Real Talkers Jay and Sheryl about our March 19, 2024 interview with sex trade abolitionist Andrea Heinz. WATCH THAT INTERVIEW: rtrj.info/031924Heinz GOLFERS: The Real Talk Golf Classic presented by CWB Wealth is close to selling out! We'd love for you to join us Thursday, June 20 at The Ranch G&CC for Edmonton's Best Golf Tournament in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. REGISTER TODAY: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS: https://www.ecfoundation.org/funds/th... FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Star actor Nathan Fillion shone a spotlight on his hometown of Edmonton the other day, posting a video of the brand new Nathan Fillion Civilian Pavilion on historic Whyte Avenue. The "parklet" is just one of many placemaking initiatives, part of a strategic effort toward density and walkability. Cities around the world are reimagining public spaces. How different will our communities look ten, twenty, fifty years from today? 3:03 | Amos Kajner-Nonnekes, Puneeta McBryan, and Kalen Anderson lay out the logic behind modern city building, including the concept of placemaking. We cover rezoning controversies, car (and pedestrian) culture, and more. VIGNETTES: https://www.edmontondowntown.com/articles/vignettes/ EDMONTON DBA: https://www.edmontondowntown.com/ 38:41 | May Long Weekend is the perfect time to visit Jasper National Park! Check out our Top Five To Do list in this week's #MyJasper Memories, proudly presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. BOOK YOUR JASPER GETAWAY: https://www.jasper.travel/ GOLFERS: The Real Talk Golf Classic presented by CWB Wealth is close to selling out! We'd love for you to join us Thursday, June 20 at The Ranch G&CC for Edmonton's Best Golf Tournament in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. REGISTER TODAY: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS: https://www.ecfoundation.org/funds/th... LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK: [email protected] FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Have the federal Liberals taken over the Alberta NDP? Could a Naheed Nenshi leadership win spell the end of the so-called "worker's party"? Hours after pulling out of the Alberta NDP leadership race, labour leader Gil McGowan joins Ryan in studio for a campaign post-mortem. Later in the episode, photojournalist Amber Bracken tells us why she's choked at the state of journalism, and why the general public needs to start giving a rip. 3:35 | Gil tells us why he withdrew from the NDP leadership race, why he's concerned about the party's direction, and whether or not he's endorsing a candidate for leader. 43:40 | Amber Bracken says more Canadians need to care about troubling trends in journalism. The World Press Photo of the Year Award winner talks about her fired-up Twitter thread on World Press Freedom Day, and takes us into her photo essay in Alberta Views on a 10-year-old fundraising phenom. AMBER'S ALBERTA VIEWS FEATURE: https://albertaviews.ca/run-for-the-children/ Save 50% on a one-year subscription to Alberta Views with the promo code AVRJ: https://albertaviews.ca/subscribe/ AMBER'S PHOTOGRAPHY: https://www.amberbracken.com/ 1:17:50 | Have you ever considered becoming a mentor? Ryan shines a light on BGCbigs' 100 Men in 100 Days campaign. BECOME A MENTOR: https://bgcbigs.ca/100Men/ GOLFERS: The Real Talk Golf Classic presented by CWB Wealth is close to selling out! We'd love for you to join us Thursday, June 20 at The Ranch G&CC for Edmonton's Best Golf Tournament in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. REGISTER TODAY: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS: https://www.ecfoundation.org/funds/th... LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK: [email protected] FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Have you seen the video of baton-wielding police officers clearing a pro-Palestine encampment at the University of Alberta? Current and former students and professors are speaking out, ripping the U of A for calling in the cops. Meantime, University president Bill Flanagan is doubling down, saying it's his job to "take all reasonable measures to prevent harm." What's the right call here? How do demonstrations - regardless of theme - factor into a post-secondary institution's mandate? We get into it with Charles Adler. 4:40 | This episode is presented by the Juno Beach Centre, Canada’s Second World War museum and cultural centre located in Normandy, France. As the 80th anniversary of D-Day approaches, Real Talk is proud to support the Flag Sponsorship Program, preserving the legacy of the Canadians who served in WWII. SPONSOR A FLAG: https://www.junobeach.org/flag-sponsorship-program/ 6:45 | Chuck takes a look at a nasty cross-check to Oilers superstar Connor McDavid's face, cops clearing protestors at the University of Alberta (15:30), a Conservative MP calling out Tim Horton's (30:35), Donald Trump comparing migrants to Hollywood's most famous cannibal (34:00), and Naheed Nenshi calling United Conservative MLAs "monkeys" (39:10). Charles Adler is presented on Real Talk by Tice Automotive Consultants. Buying a vehicle should be fun! Tice can make that happen: https://www.ticeautomotive.com/ 51:07 | Eighty years after Canadian soldiers helped liberate Holland from German occupation, Dutch citizens continue to recognize our country's contribution. Dennis Meijeringh of the Dutch Legacy Keepers of Canadian Heroes joins us in studio to explain the significance of Canadian military involvement 80 years ago, and why it resonates with younger Dutch generations to this day. 1:03:40 | We celebrate an amazing idea becoming reality - and a beloved Hollywood star's reaction - in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy. SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch ACCESS EXCLUSIVE PERKS - BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Gerald things Jerry Seinfeld needs to "grow a pair," Alison says we need to get serious about rail options for rural Albertans, and Peter says the government is "caving to the delusional demands of the far-right fringe". Real Talkers are all fired up for The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, make sure you let 'em know Real Talk sent you!

Do not despair! Human life on Earth may not be doomed, after all. We connect with five Planet Protectors in this edition of The Best of Real Talk. We talk about our plastic problem, the future of wildfires, and our most precious natural resource: water. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch GET FREE, LIMITED EDITION REAL TALK SOCKS WHEN YOU BECOME A PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

We get it: not everybody has time to catch every single episode of Real Talk. That's why we've put together The Best of Real Talk: Politics Edition. These are the key moments from our highest-profile political interviews of 2024, including a few that made national news. Enjoy the highlight reel from our recent conversations with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, Premier Danielle Smith, Minister Randy Boissonnault, Osoyoos Mayor Sue McKortoff, and every candidate vying for the leadership of the Alberta NDP. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch GET FREE, LIMITED EDITION REAL TALK SOCKS WHEN YOU BECOME A PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Ottawa has approved the B.C. government's request to recriminalize the use of illicit drugs in public spaces. This, about a year and a half after the province introduced a pilot project allowing adults to carry up to 2.5 grams of drugs for personal use without facing criminal charges. The move comes amid growing concerns around "hard" drug use in public, including playgrounds and hospitals. 3:55 | Recovery expert Guy Felicella and TV/podcast host Mo Amir tell us why they think the drug pilot crashed, and what it means for harm reduction efforts across the country. CONNECT WITH GUY: https://guyfelicella.com/ THIS IS VANCOLOUR: https://www.thisisvancolour.com/ GARTH MULLINS ON REAL TALK: https://rtrj.info/121020Mullins 32:20 | Check your junk mail and spam folders! All of a sudden, our Real Talk newsletters are being diverted out of folks' inboxes. Ryan has details on how you can win your way into NorthwestFest, Canada's longest-running documentary film festival. 35:45 | Ryan and Johnny debrief after the interview with Mo and Guy. We see what Real Talkers in the YouTube live chat have to say about politics and drug policy. 41:50 | Why did a multi-billion dollar carbon capture and storage project in Alberta hit the skids? Max Fawcett, lead columnist at Canada's National Observer, shares his theory. But first, Max takes us into his column on Pierre Poilievre coming for your charter rights. Make sure you stick around for Real Talker Brynley's query about the Karl Marx photo on Max's bookshelf. READ MAX'S WORK: https://www.nationalobserver.com/ 1:15:20 | We love hearing about first-time visits to Jasper National Park! We take a look at photos Alyssa shared from her "bucket filling" spring break family getaway. Plus, you've still got time to check out Taste of Spring in Jasper! It's #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. TASTE OF SPRING: https://www.jasper.travel/taste-of-spring/ 1:27:30 | Gerald things Jerry Seinfeld needs to "grow a pair," Alison says we need to get serious about rail options for rural Albertans, and Peter says the government is "caving to the delusional demands of the far-right fringe". Real Talkers are all fired up for The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, make sure you let 'em know Real Talk sent you! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch GET FREE, LIMITED EDITION REAL TALK SOCKS WHEN YOU BECOME A PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

This episode is about the WHY. Why is it newsworthy (or not) that senior officials were pressured to support Alberta's wind and solar moratorium? Why might the government be walking back its controversial Bill 20? Why might Premier Danielle Smith be considering changes to Alberta's auto insurance industry? Why could an ethical quagmire mean the end of a federal cabinet minister's career? And why on earth would Pierre Poilievre be picking a fight with business advocacy groups across the country? 4:15 | The Discourse co-hosts Cheryl Oates and Erika Barootes go back and forth on The Narwhal scoop about the renewables moratorium, tension between the province and municipalities (11:45), public auto insurance (22:00), Minister Randy Boissonnault (29:00), and Poilievre's National Post op/ed (39:00). 48:05 | Emmy and Peabody Award-winning comedian Paul Mecurio tells us if he agrees with Jerry Seinfeld about political correctness killing comedy, and how he booked Paul McCartney to do his podcast. SEE PAUL IN EDMONTON MAY 10 & 11: https://wem.thecomicstrip.ca/attraction/paul-mecurio/ CHECK OUT PAUL'S PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/inside-out-with-paul-mecurio/id1118318083 1:26:00 | The Real Talk Golf Classic presented by CWB Wealth is close to selling out! We'd love for you to join us Thursday, June 20 at The Ranch G&CC for Edmonton's Best Golf Tournament in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. REGISTER TODAY: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-golf-classic SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS: https://www.ecfoundation.org/funds/the-real-talk-julie-rohr-scholarship-fund/ LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK: [email protected] FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Political correctness is killing comedy. So says one of the all-time greats, Jerry Seinfeld, in an interview with The New Yorker. Is he right? We ask Charles Adler and our live audience (24:07). Later in the episode, Jason Leslie of the Alberta Chambers of Commerce has his Eye on Alberta Business - taxes and electricity costs in particular. 5:30 | Presented by Tice Automotive Consulting, Charles Adler gives us his take on Governor Kristi Noem's book passage about meeting North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un (!), Alberta Premier Danielle Smith's "fib" about the renewables moratorium (13:14), and Seinfeld's comments about the state of stand-up comedy in 2024. BUYING A VEHICLE SHOULD BE FUN: https://www.ticeautomotive.com/ 37:00 | Did you catch our Real Talk Round Table: Filmmakers Edition? Ryan revisits our May 3 episode ahead of NorthwestFest's Opening Night: May 9. GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY: https://www.northwestfest.ca/ WATCH THE ROUND TABLE: rtrj.info/050324NWF 42:15 | Were you a little surprised to see Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre tell Canadian business owners to cancel their Chamber memberships? We sure were. Ryan puts Poilievre's National Post op/ed in front of Jason Leslie from the Alberta Chambers of Commerce before discussing the ACC's advocacy on corporate taxes and electricity rates. Jason takes a second to congratulate all the nominees for the 2024 Alberta Business Awards of Distinction (June 20), and shares a few details about the ACC's AGM coming up May 23-25 in Red Deer. ALBERTA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE: https://abchamber.ca/ 1:03:09 | We LOVE hearing from younger members of our audience like Brady, 11, who doesn't miss a single edition of Positive Reflections! Brady shared a super cool video of a very considerate elephant named Shanmai - we haven't stopped smiling! SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Colin's wondering where all the money's going, LD's fed up with UCP suck-ups, Gabriel just can't take a certain Real Talk panel seriously, and James says Liberal corruption is making him sick. Real Talkers are all fired up for The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, let 'em know Real Talk sent you!

When's the last time a film really moved you? Documentaries in particular have a way of connecting with us and inspiring us to action. In this special edition of the Real Talk Round Table, we hang out with filmmakers whose work is featured at NorthwestFest, Canada's longest-running non-fiction film festival. We talk about where they get their inspiration, how they best connect with audiences, and whether or not they think Ryan's out of line for taking his shoes off when he flies. 2:40 | Guy Lavallee, Katrina Beatty, Blake McWilliam, and Ben Judkins join our Real Talk Round Table to talk about their NorthwestFest films, including Send Kelp (8:14), The Wounds Within: An Endometriosis Story (24:22), and The Cigarette Surfboard (42:40). GET TICKETS TO NORTHWESTFEST: https://www.northwestfest.ca/ 1:02:55 | The filmmakers chime in on our unofficial, unscientific Twitter poll about a high-speed rail line between Calgary and Edmonton. 1:12:40 | Do you visit movie theatres now as much as you did before the pandemic? Guy explains how audience habits have changed. We take a look at other featured films coming up at NorthwestFest, including Billy & Molly: An Otter Love Story (1:22:30). 1:29:50 | Colin's wondering where all the money's going, LD's fed up with UCP suck-ups, Gabriel just can't take a certain Real Talk panel seriously, and James says Liberal corruption is making him sick. Real Talkers are all fired up for The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, let 'em know Real Talk sent you! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Did Pierre Poilievre deserve to get kicked out of the House of Commons for calling Justin Trudeau a "wacko PM"? Should Greg Fergus resign as Speaker of the House? How much responsibility should the Prime Minister take for the tone of today's politics? We get into gamesmanship, theatre, and communication strategy in this episode of Real Talk. 8:35 | But first...was anybody surprised to see the Alberta government walk back its plan to defund public transit supports for seniors and low-income Albertans? We sure weren't. The biggest question now is, who thought that was a good idea in the first place? 17:40 | Pierre Poilievre was kicked out of the House of Commons this week after calling Justin Trudeau a "wacko PM". Did the Opposition Leader deserve the boot? Did he maybe kinda sorta get ejected on purpose? 36:50 | Premier Danielle Smith is investing close to $10M to look at ramping up passenger rail in Alberta. Would you take a high speed train between Calgary and Edmonton? How about between Calgary and Banff, or Banff and Jasper? What about a super-network connecting Lethbridge all the way to Fort McMurray? EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 53:55 | Now this is REAL Talk. Ryan reads emails from Ian and Sheryl re: our March 19 interview with sex trade abolitionist Andrea Heinz. ANDREA ON REAL TALK: rtrj.info/031924Heinz FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Does shooting a puppy and writing about it in a book automatically kill South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem's shot at the Vice Presidency? Does defunding a public transit program designed for low-income and senior Albertans make any sense - optically, politically, or otherwise - for Alberta Premier Danielle Smith? 4:50 | Emmy Award-winning talk radio legend Charles Adler chimes in on Noem, the UCP's public transit cuts (26:20), Minister Randy Boissonnault's uncomfortable ethics predicament (37:15), the electoral future of the Edmonton-Centre federal riding (41:03), Ayahuasca and magic mushrooms for mental health (yeah, you read that right 46:55), Alberta's first municipal political party - TAPYEG (1:01:30), and the Edmonton Oilers matchup against the LA Kings (1:09:05). 32:55 | May is a perfect time for rock climbing in the Rocky Mountains! In this episode of #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper, we introduce you to the crew at Rockaboo Mountain Adventures. GET CLIMBING: https://rockaboo.ca/ EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

For the first time in Alberta's history, political parties will be players in the October 2025 municipal elections. TAPYEG is the first party to introduce itself to voters in Edmonton. In this episode, we meet some of the people behind TAPYEG, and hear why they believe they can do a better job than the current mayor and council. 3:34 | TAPYEG board members Jeffrey Hansen-Carlson, Naseem Bashir, and Al Amer tell us why they founded the political party/think tank, how they expect to disrupt City Hall, and how they'll pull off a promised tax cut within 100 days of forming municipal government. LEARN MORE: https://www.tapyeg.ca/ 50:38 | Since Connie Walker's last Real Talk appearance, she's won a Peabody Award and a Pulitzer Prize, and she was just named to TIME's list of The 100 Most Influential People for 2024. We talk to her about the incredible global response to her "Stolen" podcast series, and what it was like to attend the TIME Gala in NYC alongside Dua Lipa, Michael J. Fox and Uma Thurman. WATCH CONNIE'S FIRST REAL TALK INTERVIEW IN 2022 | https://rtrj.info/071122Walker CONNIE'S WORK: https://www.conniewalker.com/ 1:28:16 | You have to see these STUNNING photos captured from the cockpit of Real Talker Jodi's plane as she flew over Slave Lake (there's an Edmonton Oilers playoff angle)! Jodi told us she thought they were perfect for Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy...and we agree! SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Gabriel sounds off on 15 Minute Cities, James is nervous about the feds selling TMX, and Angela has a message for Alberta's duly-elected mayors and councillors. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, tell 'em Real Talk sent you!

Another wild week in Alberta politics, as Premier Danielle Smith's government introduces sweeping changes to how city and town councils are elected, operate, and are held accountable. The UCP's Bill 20 opens the door for municipal political parties, restores union and corporate donations, and empowers the province to remove elected councillors (when it's "in the public interest"). Question is, are the changes good or bad for democracy? What do they mean for the average Albertan? Back by popular demand...it's our Group Chat Round Table! 2:10 | Jenny Adams, Sarah Hamilton, and Jarrett Campbell take on municipal political parties (10:00), the return of union and corporate donations (26:05), the power to fire city councillors (29:00), Bill 18 - the Provincial Priorities Act (31:10), Pierre Poilievre's roadside photo op (34:00), and the Alberta NDP leadership race (48:30). 57:00 | Gabriel sounds off on 15 Minute Cities, James is nervous about the feds selling TMX, and Angela has a message for Alberta's duly-elected mayors and councillors. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, tell 'em Real Talk sent you! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Are you better off with partisan politics at the local level? Will Alberta benefit from its provincial government inserting itself into funding agreements between municipalities and the feds? As Premier Danielle Smith's UCP government rolls out Bill 18 - the Provincial Priorities Act - and opens the door for municipal political parties, we ask, "What does it all mean for YOU?" 3:05 | Alberta Municipalities president Tyler Gandam and past presidents Cathy Heron and Lisa Holmes discuss how Alberta's most prominent new legislation will impact everyday service delivery and infrastructure development in communities across the province. LEARN MORE: https://www.abmunis.ca/news/bill-18-what-municipalities-need-know 39:15 | Lisa Holmes responds to Grande Prairie Mayor Jackie Clayton's assessment of (Lisa's boss) Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi's "defiant and aggressive" Twitter posts aimed at Premier Smith. Lisa and Cathy go on to discuss Andre Corbould's seemingly sudden departure as Edmonton city manager, security threats facing politicians and public figures, and the upcoming wildfire season. MISSED MAYOR CLAYTON ON REAL TALK? WATCH NOW: rtrj.info/042324GP TALK TO US: [email protected] FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Claire Porter Robbins is just back from Jerusalem, where she's been covering the Israel-Hamas war for The New Yorker, The Atlantic, and The Globe & Mail. Prior to that, she worked for Doctors Without Borders in Gaza. 2:15 | Claire tells us about the grim state of healthcare in Gaza, including reports of mass graves at the Nasser and al-Shifa hospitals. She talks about the psychological impact of war on children, Canada's military presence in Israel/Palestine, and whether or not there's any hope for peace in the region. CHECK OUT CLAIRE'S WORK: https://www.claireporterrobbins.com/ 52:35 | Ryan reads an email from Real Talker "Selinger" about bias and opinion in interviews. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 1:02:25 | The Fairmont Jasper Park Golf Course opens May 10! If you're looking to get your swing ready for opening day, we've got you covered in #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. BOOK YOUR JPL GOLF GETAWAY: https://www.jaspermountaingolf.com/ 1:05:15 | Grande Prairie Mayor Jackie Clayton raised more than a few eyebrows with her assessment of Edmonton Mayor Amarjeet Sohi's social media posts aimed at Premier Danielle Smith during our April 23 interview. Ryan and Johnny get into some of your feedback. MISSED MAYOR CLAYTON ON REAL TALK? WATCH NOW: rtrj.info/042324GP FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

All eyes are on Grande Prairie as the northern Alberta city bids adieu to the RCMP and welcomes its own municipal police service. "GP" becomes the first Alberta city since Camrose in 1956 to introduce a new police service, and both proponents and critics of Premier Danielle Smith's plan to establish a provincial police force will be paying close attention to how the transition plays out. 2:30 | Mayor Jackie Clayton explains the move away from the RCMP, how she thinks the Provincial Priorities Act will impact Grande Prairie (19:00), municipal political parties (26:17), GP's approach to clearing homeless encampments (34:30), cost of living and skyrocketing utilities (41:55), her take on the future of hydrogen (45:30), Premier Danielle Smith's musings about Red Deer as a city of million people (47:40), the Alberta is Calling campaign (51:00), her hesitation around "15 Minute Cities" (52:40), and the looming wildfire season (57:20). LET US KNOW WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT THE INTERVIEW: [email protected] FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

When you think of the state of Planet Earth, do you feel optimism or dread? We couldn't blame you for having a bit of a pit in your stomach, considering everything we see in the news. We humans are tough on our home planet. Is it possible to reverse the negative impacts we create, and preserve a healthy future for generations to come? In this special Earth Day episode of Real Talk, we hear about amazing research being done in Alberta that could address our plastic problem in particular (56:45), but also oil spills and other environmental catastrophes. 2:50 | But first...federal Jobs Minister Randy Boissonnault joins Ryan in studio ahead of his address to the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce. We talk about the Canadian Hydrogen Convention, carbon capture, and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith telling Ottawa to stay in its lane re: federal funding for housing, healthcare, and research. Plus, Ryan asks Randy about the rumour a car's been parked outside his house for the past week with "Axe the Tax" signs. 25:45 | Charles Adler tells us what he thinks the cops need to do about the protestor parked outside Minister Boissonnault's house. We talk about a protest outside Parliament over the weekend, where demonstrators chanted "October 7th, we're almost free...long live October 7th!" 56:45 | It's Earth Day! What're we going to do about our plastic problem? Microplastics are being discovered on Mount Everest, the deepest depths of the ocean, and in placentas. Athabasca University researcher Dr. Srijak Bhatnagar tells us how microbes could be a big part of the solution, and not just for plastic waste. LEARN MORE: https://www.athabascau.ca/news/research/microbes-environment REAL TALK WORLD WATER DAY ROUND TABLE: rtrj.info/032124Water 1:42:20 | Our hearts are full after the Evening of Hope Gala. Ryan gives a special shout out to Real Talker AJ and everybody who's signed their organ donor card in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Dwayne says Danielle Smith is a threat to medical research in Alberta, KP and Rene say Premier Smith's bang on with Bill 18, and Gabe has a bone to pick with Charles Adler. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, tell 'em Real Talk sent you!

Kathleen Ganley's team is fed up with Jespo talking like their campaign's cooked. They say while the former Justice Minister might not be the favourite (or the biggest name) in the Alberta NDP leadership race, she's far from out of it. She argues her case - and tells us where she thinks the Hoffman and Nenshi campaigns are missing the mark - in a special episode of Real Talk. 2:50 | Team Ganley debuts its new campaign video exclusively on our show. Ryan asks Kathleen about the elephant in the room (6:00), opposing Danielle Smith (12:20), allegiance to "The Left" (15:22), raising minimum wage (17:20), reforming the Alberta Energy Regulator (19:20), private service providers in healthcare (28:50), the Hoffman campaign (33:30), divorcing from the federal NDP (38:20), increasing Alberta's corporate tax rate (46:00), the Nenshi disadvantage (49:14), fundraising (52:10), and a rumour the ban on union and corporate donations to political parties may be reversed (54:54). 1:06:17 | Did you know Real Talk Patrons receive exclusive perks, like whiskey tastings, film festival passes, VIP election night viewing parties, and Real Talk branded socks? Ryan gives a shout out to the Real Talkers that support us every month via Patreon. Thank you! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen 1:09:05 | Dwayne says Danielle Smith is a threat to medical research in Alberta, KP and Rene say Premier Smith's bang on with Bill 18, and Gabe has a bone to pick with Charles Adler. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, tell 'em Real Talk sent you! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Millions of Canadians are feeling the effects of a serious housing crunch. And every single one of us is feeling the effects of climate change. The federal governmen't spending billions and billions of dollars to address these very real issues - but is it working? Are we getting bang for our (billions of) bucks? We take a closer look at Ottawa's plans for housing and the carbon tax (28:45) in this episode of Real Talk. 5:00 | Hon. Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure, and Communities responds to Pierre Poilievre calling him "the worst Immigration Minister in Canadian history," tells us how record numbers of new Canadians are impacting the housing crunch, and tells us how the feds are approaching existing housing deals with Alberta's big cities in light of Premier Danielle Smith's "Stay Out of My Backyard" bill (Bill 18). 22:58 | Real Talker Sarah, a lawyer, tells us why she's nervous about Bill 18 and how it might impact medical research in Alberta. CHECK OUT SARAH'S "CAR FREE" APPEARANCE ON REAL TALK: https://rtrj.info/011524MommyPedals 28:45 | Is the carbon tax ACTUALLY effective? Like, is there proof it's actually lowering emissions in Canada? University of Ottawa economist Nic Rivers takes us into what we know (and what we don't). 1:04:45 | Ryan and Johnny are just a liiiiiiittle bit excited about the Real Talk Golf Classic presented by CWB Wealth on Thursday, June 20! Have you registered yet to play, volunteer, or sponsor this annual fundraiser for the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship? SIGN UP TODAY: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... 1:08:10 | STOP THE PRESSES: former UCP president Erika Barootes agrees with Rachel Notley on something! We take a quick look at the newest episode of The Discourse. SUBSCRIBE TO THE DISCOURSE: https://www.youtube.com/@UC1WjKtBGH6U0S6HDePuLjkw FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

There's a lot to understand in Budget 2024, delivered April 16 by Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. Are you a renter hoping to buy your first home? An entrepreneur getting ready to sell the business you built? An average Canadian struggling to make your payments, including that cell phone bill? Whether you obsess over politics or pay no attention whatsoever, we all want to understand how the budget affects our own bottom line. We talk to three experts from three different angles in this post-Budget episode of Real Talk. 2:25 | The Pembina Institute's Scott MacDougall and The Fraser Institute's Jake Fuss dig into the details of Budget 2024. 38:00 | Spring is one of the most magnificent times to visit Jasper! We feature a new culinary and cultural celebration - Taste of Spring - in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. BOOK YOUR JASPER GETAWAY: https://www.jasper.travel/taste-of-spring/ 40:10 | Does Budget 2024 go far enough for Canadians with disabilities? Don Slater from Disability Without Poverty gets real about the government's $6B Disability Benefit. MORE: https://www.disabilitywithoutpoverty.ca/ 1:03:33 | Smokers and vapers will pay more in 2024. Ryan and Johnny talk about the impact of that specific tax increase. 1:11:00 | Real Talker Garth says there will be electoral implications to this federal budget. Ryan reads his email to [email protected]. FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC = JUNE 20: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

You've seen the headlines: Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says all federal funding to universities, school boards, health and housing authorities, and other entities needs to flow through her office...or she'll take PM Justin Trudeau's government to court. Bill 18 - dubbed the "Stay Out of My Backyard" Bill by Premier Smith - seeks to ensure projects have Alberta's blessing before proceeding. The implications of the legislation are far-reaching, to say the least. In this episode, we find out how it could impact Alberta's post-secondaries, including research, reputation, and beyond. 3:18 | International Relations professor and researcher Dr. W. Andy Knight, PhD student Andrea Dekeseredy, and University of Alberta alum Andy Grabia dig into one of the top political stories in the country on a special edition of the Real Talk Round Table. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC = JUNE 20: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says federal funding for things like housing, harm reduction, and research needs to flow through the province. Her government's introducing legislation that will force municipalities, housing and health authorities, and other entities to secure provincial approval before striking deals with Ottawa. Smith says the feds are operating outside their lane. Municipalities, for one, say dealing with Ottawa is the only way they're able to get anything done. 3:40 | Charles Adler gives us his take on Bill 18 - the Provincial Priorities Act, before explaining why he thinks the UCP is dominating the NDP on fundraising (16:55). As jury selection begins in Donald Trump's criminal trial, we look at New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu's curious defence of his Trump endorsement (22:35). Is there room for another federal political party in Canada? Adler responds to our April 12 Real Talk Round Table with founders of the Canadian Future Party (31:30). We take a look at Iran's aerial attack on Israel (40:50), and what it means for the international community. Real Talker Marcello has a question about Adler's political leanings (44:20), and Chuck ties it to Bill Maher's monologue about The Left driving a bus off a cliff (47:00). 55:00 | Real Talker Ron tells us why he thinks Danielle Smith's Bill 18 is the wrong move for Alberta. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 58:15 | We love Real Talker Lucinda's submission for Positive Reflections - some of the best Google Maps images we've ever seen! Positive Reflections is presented weekly by Kuby Renewable Energy. CHECK OUT THE POST: https://www.instagram.com/p/C5bve6GoGun/?img_index=1 GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC = JUNE 20: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Mike has a message for the "F Trudeau" crowd, Michael and Bob the Builder think Danielle Smith's out of line with the Provincial Priorities Act, dog lover Fiona says we need to crack down on dangerous canines, and Adam demands the right to purchase 4L milk jugs full of vodka for $49.95. It's The Flamethrower presented by the Dairy Queens of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] VISIT THE DQs IN PALISADES, NAMAO, NEWCASTLE, WESTMOUNT, AND BASELINE ROAD!

Are you a conservative turned off by the current tone of the Conservative Party of Canada? Are you a liberal who just can't support the Justin Trudeau-led government anymore? Or maybe you're somebody who hasn't voted in past, but you would if there was a party that felt like a fit? We look at the Canadian Future Party - a new "centrist" party - in this edition of the Real Talk Round Table. 2:40 | Interim leader Dominic Cardy, co-founder Rick Peterson, and party member Dicky Dikamba tell us why they started the party, how it differs from existing legacy parties, and how they intend to grow the grassroots. CHECK IT OUT: https://www.ourcanadianfuture.ca/ 1:02:20 | Mike has a message for the "F Trudeau" crowd, Michael and Bob the Builder think Danielle Smith's out of line with the Provincial Priorities Act, dog lover Fiona says we need to crack down on dangerous canines, and Adam demands the right to purchase 4L milk jugs full of vodka for $49.95. It's The Flamethrower presented by the Dairy Queens of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] VISIT THE DQs IN PALISADES, NAMAO, NEWCASTLE, WESTMOUNT, AND BASELINE ROAD! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC = JUNE 20: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

How bad is foreign election interference in Canada? What are we learning from the inquiry underway in Ottawa? Do polls even matter 18 months out from an election? What does Anthony Housefather's decision to stay a Liberal MP say about the future of that party, if anything? And, is it possible Naheed Nenshi isn't the saviour many are saying he'll be for the Alberta NDP? 5:15 | Political writer Evan Scrimshaw looks at Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's testimony at the foreign interference inquiry, the latest federal polls (17:40), Housefather's decision to remain a Liberal following the Palestine statehood vote (26:00), Rachel Gilmore calling out Pierre Poilievre's communications team (34:45), and why Evan thinks Naheed Nenshi's Alberta NDP leadership campaign is "a sinking ship" (45:30). READ EVAN'S WORK: https://scrimshawunscripted.substack.com/ 1:01:35 | Real Talker Wendy responds to Jen Gerson's April 9 appearance on the show, and tells us why she sold her car...for good. NO MINIVAN? NO PROBLEM: https://youtu.be/4osV6Xy9Bys?si=5b94VXRPCPekxTdt 1:10:20 | Real Talker Jim from Vernon has a theory about why cancer rates are up around the world. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 1:14:20 | Real Talker AJ shares his powerful personal story about organ donation. EVENING OF HOPE - APRIL 20: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/evening-of-hope-tickets-797818335117?aff=efbevent FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC = JUNE 20: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

"I'll literally find that grease ball and hook a chain around his ankle and drag him behind my pickup truck," reads a post from Liam Brennan on an Osoyoos community social media page, referencing the BC town's CAO Rod Risling in the context of a property tax increase. The threat - far from the only one - forced Mayor Sue McKortoff to take action. You'll find out how she and her colleagues are bringing the whole province on board to address harassment and threats aimed at public officials. Stick around as we look at Alberta's latest threat to sue the feds (59:15), and what it means for you. 8:40 | Osoyoos Mayor Sue McKortoff tells us about the specific death threat forced her hand, as the town lobbies other municipalities and the province to toughen up laws around harassment and abuse. 44:25 | Join Ryan on Saturday, April 20 in Fort Saskatchewan at An Evening of HOPE! Funds raised at this gala fundraiser will benefit organ donor families, thanks to the great work by the Andy Polanski Charitable Foundation. TICKETS/INFORMATION: https://www.apcf.ca/ 47:40 | Prompted by talk about organ donation, Ryan reads a powerful story submitted by Real Talker Lesley in NWT. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 56:35 | The only gay ski week in the Canadian Rockies kicks off April 12 in Jasper! We find out how some Jasper businesses are among the first in Canada to become Rainbow Registered in this edition of #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. JASPER PRIDE: https://jasperpride.ca/ 59:15 | Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says she'll take Ottawa to court if the feds continue to strike big deals directly with municipalities. Ryan explains who could win here, why it's happening when it is, and ultimately who will be stuck with the tab. 1:09:50 | Real Talker Colin has no time for Charles Adler's take on the two Cane Corsos that killed the boy in Edmonton on April 1. JEREMY ALLEN "GRIEF" INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/091222Allen 1:15:25 | Real Talker Jared follows up on a dog-related email he sent us in December 2023 with "a story of redemption and ruination." FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC = JUNE 20: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-golf-classic REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Justin Trudeau's said it a million times: eight out of ten Canadians receive more from the Canada Carbon Rebate than what they pay in carbon taxes. If that's true, why aren't more Canadians on board with the Liberal government's approach to climate action? Is it possible the rebate itself is actually the biggest problem with the carbon tax? Political columnist Jen Gerson makes that argument in this super-sized episode of Real Talk. 5:00 | But first...should parents be charged when their children commit heinous crimes? Ryan and Johnny take a look at sentencing hearings for James and Jennifer Crumbley, whose son Ethan killed four schoolmates in Oxford, Michigan in November 2021. 9:50 | Real Talkers have a LOT to say about the tragic death of 11-year-old Kache Grist, who was killed by two Cane Corsos owned by his dad's roommate. Ryan reads emails to [email protected]. GO FUND ME: https://www.gofundme.com/f/funeral-costs-for-kache 29:20 | Jen Gerson tells us what prompted her to co-found The Line, one of Canada's most-read sources of online conservative commentary. She explains why she thinks the carbon tax rebate is actually the biggest problem with the carbon tax (44:25), and gives us her take on Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek's biggest mistake (1:25:20). READ THE LINE: https://www.readtheline.ca/p/jen-gerson-the-problem-with-the-carbon FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

An 11-year-old boy is dead after two Cane Corsos owned by his dad's roommate attacked him during a Spring Break visit. The dogs, subjects of two other police complaints in 2024 alone, were seized and euthanized. How should society handle tragedies like this? Ultimately, whose fault is it? And what does "justice" look like? 3:45 | Charles Adler talks it out with Ryan and Johnny (all three of them dog owners), along with Real Talkers in our YouTube live chat. Later, we get into Donald Trump's communication technique (45:24) and Pierre Poilievre's unsolicited endorsement from Alex Jones (59:17). RYAN'S POLL RE: DOG ATTACKS: https://x.com/ryanjespersen/status/1777344036413841662 1:14:52 | This week's Positive Reflection presented by Kuby Energy comes courtesy Real Talker Cara. Who doesn't love a good water rescue? Thanks Cara! SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Real Talker Clyde is ALL fired up about the carbon tax increase, and has a message for his customers and fellow Canadians. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park: Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected]

Within the next couple of years, people will be moving into new homes in the 100% Hydrogen-fuelled community of Bremner, just east of Edmonton. It'll be the first neighbourhood of its kind in North America. Planners are bullish, expecting close to 90,000 residents when it's all built out. Bigger picture, what does the future of home hydrogen look like? How is it different than natural gas? Is it actually a step toward sustainability? How do we know it's safe? Will hydrogen take jobs away from oil and gas workers? What about water impacts? Why not go with wind and solar? 2:35 | ATCO's Greg Caldwell, Qualico's Brad Armstrong, and Gradient Thermal's Cameron Doepker discuss plans (and justification) for Bremner, and the future of hydrogen in Alberta and across the country. ATCO: https://www.atco.com/en-ca.html QUALICO: https://qualicocommunitiesedmonton.com/ GRADIENT THERMAL: https://www.gradientthermal.com/ 1:05:38 | Real Talker Clyde is ALL fired up about the carbon tax increase, and has a message for his customers and fellow Canadians. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park: Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

How do the Feds plan to invest their way out of a housing crisis? What proof do we have the $10/day childcare program is paying off? What does the future of pharmacare look like in provinces saying "No thanks" to the proposed plan? And how can Canadians trust the government's procurement process after that $60M ArriveCAN app debacle? We check in with Hon. Anita Anand (34:10) in this episode of Real Talk. 7:30 | But first...Ryan and Johnny talk get Real about their track record with dentist and doctor visits, Real Talker Sean says boo birds at the Flames game don't speak for all Calgarians (14:38), Real Talker Caroline has insights on politicians who swap values for power (20:23), and Real Talker Jake shares his informed take on Temporary Foreign Workers (28:23). EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 34:10 | Anita Anand, President of the Treasury Board of Canada, joins us a few minutes ahead of a big pre-budget announcement in Calgary. FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 59:40 | Real Talker Lisa is married to an Alberta Sheriff. She tells us how they're feeling about a proposed Alberta Police Force. Real Talker Sunil fact checks Max Fawcett's March 28 comments about inflation (1:06:10). We revisit our fascinating conversation with Trina Moyles about the 2024 wildfire season (1:15:00), and hear from Real Talker Heather (1:21:38), who says she's just trying to keep her head above water re: politics and everything else! REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Experts are predicting one of the worst wildfire seasons in Canadian history in 2024. We find out why (and what we can do about it) in this episode. But first, it's another scoop for Real Talk as NDP MLA David Shepherd tells us why he's endorsing "outsider" Naheed Nenshi as the next leader of the Alberta NDP, and sheds light on the personal health challenges that halted Shepherd's own plans to seek the NDP's top job. 2:35 | The MLA for Edmonton-Centre makes his announcement in the Real Talk studio. 41:20 | The responses to Ryan's tweet about Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek getting booed at a recent Flames game are...somethin' else. Jespo and Johnny take a quick look at some of the comments. 52:50 | The Jasper Canadian Rockies Half Marathon goes Saturday, April 27! We take a look at the myriad of options (5k, 10k, half marathon, and family fun run) and perks connected to this breathtaking annual tradition in #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. REGISTER: https://jaspercanadianrockieshalf.ca/ 55:00 | Trina Moyles spent seven years working as a fire tower lookout in northwestern Alberta. She's the author of "Looking: Love, Solitude, and Searching for Wildfire in the Boreal Firest," and the cover feature "Alberta is Burning" in the April issue of Alberta Views. Trina takes us into the world of wildfires, and explains why this year could prove to be the worst on record. KNOCK 50% OFF A SUBSCRIPTION TO ALBERTA VIEWS WITH THE PROMO CODE "AVRJ" -- https://albertaviews.ca/ DR. MIKE FLANNAGAN ON REAL TALK (MAY 2023): https://www.youtube.com/live/bsYbKigZWXc?si=9v7F2h2eQllL3p7L&t=400 KYLE BRITTAIN ON REAL TALK (MAY 2023): https://www.youtube.com/live/B4MdnTYb4ik?si=mOT7cbzdFOEaeZLb&t=160 EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

A rough reception for Mayor Jyoti Gondek, booed during an appearance at centre ice during the Calgary Flames South Asian Celebration game. It's the latest challenge for Gondek, whose popularity has taken a significant hit in recent months, as evidenced by the recall petition we discussed during our March 25, 2024 episode. 5:30 | What does the heckling say about Calgarians, or even Canadians...if anything? Charles Adler gives us his take on this story, along with an update on the Danielle Smith/Steven Guilbeault spat, and an infamous five year anniversary of an interview that changed the course of Ryan and Chuck's careers. 46:40 | Is Ottawa ignoring a big opportunity for Canadian LNG exports? Alberta Chambers of Commerce President and CEO Shauna Feth lays out the business implications of a recent visit by the Greek PM, changes to the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Cap, the carbon tax increase, the Temporary Foreign Worker program, Pharmacare, and more. UPCOMING JOB FAIRS: https://www.abchamber.ca/alberta-hiring-opportunities/ TALENT DEVELOPMENT TASK FORCE: https://www.abchamber.ca/talent-development-task-force/ ALBERTA PERSPECTIVES SURVEY: https://rtrj.info/040224ACCABPerspectives 1:24:25 | Shout out to Donna Jean Wilde! The 58 year old Magrath, AB resident broke the Guinness World Record for longest time in an abdominal plank (female), holding the gut-busting fitness pose for just over four and a half hours! How could we not feature her incredible accomplishment in this week's Positive Reflections presented by our friends at Kuby Renewable Energy?! SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's taking his "Axe the Tax" rallies across the country ahead of another carbon tax increase on April 1. Meantime, more than 200 economists have signed an open letter criticizing Poilievre's message and calling for "sound evidence and facts" in the debate around carbon pricing. Predictably, prominent Conservatives like Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe are questioning the credibility of the economists who've signed the letter. SO...who's telling the truth, and who's deliberately misleading Canadians? 4:20 | Max Fawcett gives us his unflinching takes on Pierre Poilievre's "Spike the Hike" rallies (and Justin Trudeau's carbon tax communication breakdown). Max and Ryan dig into Alberta's fuel tax increase (33:30), how provincial governments are fuelling inflation (37:30), the possibility of a President Trump-PM Poilievre-Premier Smith scenario (39:30), Rakhi Pancholi pulling out of the Alberta NDP leadership race and endorsing Naheed Nenshi (57:13), Poilievre and Nenshi both drawing big crowds in Edmonton (1:08:40), and an RCMP report on risks facing Canada (1:12:50). READ MAX IN THE NATIONAL OBSERVER: https://www.nationalobserver.com/ 1:19:30 | Real Talker Kathy emails in re: our coverage of the Alberta NDP leadership race. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 1:23:03 | Real Talker Kimberly gives us a heads up on how the town of Westlock, AB is responding to a recent plebiscite banning Pride flags on public property. 1:24:30 | Gabriel's sick of Jespo and Adler "blowing smoke" up Elon Musk's ass, Pam says it's time for Adler to "say the g-word" re: the Israel-Hamas war, Carolyn says Ryan's driving her crazy with comments on plastic bag bans, Gillian wonders if "dudebro comedians" would survive poking fun at themselves instead of punching down, and Paul's got a hot take on Alberta's plan for municipal political parties. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, make sure you let 'em know Real Talk sent you! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre's taking his "Axe the Tax" rallies across the country ahead of another carbon tax increase on April 1. Meantime, more than 200 economists have signed an open letter criticizing Poilievre's message and calling for "sound evidence and facts" in the debate around carbon pricing. Predictably, prominent Conservatives like Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe are questioning the credibility of the economists who've signed the letter. SO...who's telling the truth, and who's deliberately misleading Canadians? 4:20 | Max Fawcett gives us his unflinching takes on Pierre Poilievre's "Spike the Hike" rallies (and Justin Trudeau's carbon tax communication breakdown). Max and Ryan dig into Alberta's fuel tax increase (33:30), how provincial governments are fuelling inflation (37:30), the possibility of a President Trump-PM Poilievre-Premier Smith scenario (39:30), Rakhi Pancholi pulling out of the Alberta NDP leadership race and endorsing Naheed Nenshi (57:13), Poilievre and Nenshi both drawing big crowds in Edmonton (1:08:40), and an RCMP report on risks facing Canada (1:12:50). READ MAX IN THE NATIONAL OBSERVER: https://www.nationalobserver.com/ 1:19:30 | Real Talker Kathy emails in re: our coverage of the Alberta NDP leadership race. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 1:23:03 | Real Talker Kimberly gives us a heads up on how the town of Westlock, AB is responding to a recent plebiscite banning Pride flags on public property. 1:24:30 | Gabriel's sick of Jespo and Adler "blowing smoke" up Elon Musk's ass, Pam says it's time for Adler to "say the g-word" re: the Israel-Hamas war, Carolyn says Ryan's driving her crazy with comments on plastic bag bans, Gillian wonders if "dudebro comedians" would survive poking fun at themselves instead of punching down, and Paul's got a hot take on Alberta's plan for municipal political parties. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, make sure you let 'em know Real Talk sent you! FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch

Were you shocked to see Rakhi Pancholi pull out of the Alberta NDP leadership race with three months to go? (We were!) Many people saw the popular Edmonton MLA as a legitimate successor to Rachel Notley, and a formidable candidate to be the next Premier of Alberta. So, what's up? 3:49 | Rakhi tells us when and why she decided to leave the leadership race and endorse Naheed Nenshi. 21:54 | First responders out of Edmonton have been equipping Ukrainian firefighters in proper PPE, and training them in tactical combat casualty care. Firefighter Aid Ukraine's Kevin Royle checks in live from Ukraine, and Nikki Booth joins from Edmonton, for an update on the group's work in one of the world's hardest-hit war zones. SUPPORT FIREFIGHTER AID UKRAINE: https://www.firefighteraidukraine.com/ 35:45 | We love when you share your #MyJasper Memories with us! That's what the Whidden family did, telling us all about their trip to Jasper National Park. (We love their family tradition "Animal Bingo"!) Plus, the Jasper Pride & Ski Festival is just weeks away - we cover it all, courtesy of our friends at Tourism Jasper. FESTIVAL DETAILS: https://jasperpride.ca/ 38:48 | APTN journalist Danielle Paradis tells us about her assignment covering the impacts of climate change in Canada's high arctic, resulting in the six-part podcast series The Place That Thaws. CHECK OUT THE PLACE THAT THAWS: https://www.aptnnews.ca/ourstories/theplacethatthaws/ EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors

Gil's in, and Rakhi's out. On an eventful day in the Alberta NDP leadership race, we find out why the president of the Alberta Federation of Labour figures he's the best best to return the NDP to power. 2:00 | But first...Rakhi Pancholi's out of the NDP leadership race, withdrawing and endorsing Naheed Nenshi just moments before we record this episode. Ryan offers some initial thoughts (more at 1:01:50). 3:40 | Gil McGowan tells us why he might be the next Peter Lougheed (!), and why he thinks the NDP lost the most recent provincial election. Speaking with Ryan an hour before officially launching his campaign, Gil gives us a few scoops on his plans for Alberta's energy industry, electricity grid, insurance, and more. CHECK OUT GIL'S CAMPAIGN: https://gilforalberta.ca/ 1:01:50 | Ryan and Johnny discuss Rakhi Pancholi's departure from the NDP leadership race, and get into the YouTube Live comments. 1:22:45 | We're all horrified by the Baltimore bridge collapse. Ryan and Johnny take a look at the video footage and some of the early reports. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Landon Johnston thinks Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek's doing such a lousy job, he organizes a petition to recall her from office. Instead of ignoring the petition, which is unlikely to succeed, Gondek invites Johnston to sit down one-on-one at City Hall and discuss his concerns. What was said during their brief meeting, and where do both parties go from here? 2:55 | Mayor Gondek tells us what she and Johnston discussed, how she's responding, and how the recall petition has impacted her personally and politically. 36:00 | Charles Adler tells us about receiving the key to the City of Toronto, then tells us what he thinks about Mayor Gondek meeting with the guy who wants her run out of office. Chuck and Ryan discuss Donald Trump's half-a-billion-dollar legal woes, and horrific famine conditions in Gaza. 1:29:55 | We LOVE follow-up stories with happy endings! This week's Positive Reflection is submitted by Lew, who joined us on the show just over a year ago to talk about his journey with homelessness and addiction. We guarantee you'll be moved by his update. WATCH LEW'S DEC. 21, 2022 INTERVIEW: https://rtrj.info/122122Lew SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch QUALIFY FOR EXCLUSIVE PERKS! BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.