Real Talk Ryan Jespersen

One of Canada's biggest wind farms is set to fire up in Alberta. At peak generation, it'll provide enough juice to power 160,000 homes. But it wasn't smooth sailing getting the $600M project built. The province continues to treat renewables differently than its golden goose: oil and gas. With jurisdictions around the world competing for billions of dollars of investment in wind and solar, will Alberta still be Canada's Energy Capital fifty years from now? 2:55 | Thomas LoTurco, EVP for Eastern US, Canada, and Government Affairs for EDP Renewables introduces us to their Sharp Hills wind farm, and talks about the implications of Alberta's regulatory red tape and renewables moratorium, landowner negotiations, and public skepticism. LEARN MORE ABOUT SHARP HILLS: https://www.edpr.com/north-america/news/2024/01/22/edp-renewables-north-america-announces-operations-commencement-sharp-hills-wind 34:30 | In one of the more creative emails we've received about healthcare and education, Real Talker "Edgar" says Albertans are a lot like the beef they're so proud of. BE LIKE EDGAR...SEND US AN EMAIL: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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 Liberal Cabinet is in Montreal, trying to figure out how to gain back the ground they've lost to Pierre Poilievre. Alberta NDP supporters are taking a closer look than ever before at their up-and-comers, with Rachel Notley's resignation official. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis takes a hint from the people of Iowa, and bows to kiss Trump's ring. 2:20 | Charles Adler nails down what the Liberals need to figure out at their Cabinet retreat, predicts the dynamic of the Alberta NDP leadership race, takes a few swipes at Take Back Alberta founder David Parker, and summarizes Ron DeSantis' brief run at the Presidency. 57:45 | We've got an update following Sarah Bisbee's appearance on the show (she told us all about her suburban family of six going completely car-free), including an email from Real Talker Coreen. Plus, Real Talker Ken tells us why he supports the show on Patreon despite the fact he "could get it for free." You're the best, Ken! Ryan lays out a few great reasons to become a Real Talk Patron. BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen 1:07:30 | Real Talker Shalaine's email made our week. Ryan shares it as a Positive Reflection presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kubyenergy.ca/ WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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 cold snap just about broke Alberta's power grid. Deportation looms for the man that caused a high-profile tragedy. People still don't know how to zipper merge. Real Talkers are fired up for The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected]

What does the workforce of the future look like? What will drive growth, retain talent, and ultimately dictate success? What are the world's leading jurisdictions doing? Why are others being left in the dust? When does government need to lead, and when should it get out of the way? What are today's post-secondary students looking for, and what's the best way for industry to connect with tomorrow's brightest minds? 2:10 | Alberta Chambers of Commerce CEO Shauna Feth, NorQuest College CEO Carolyn Campbell, and Deloitte's Elise Sethna discuss talent development and retention, and how it relates to Alberta's future prosperity. LEARN MORE ABOUT ALBERTA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE: https://www.abchamber.ca/ TAKE THE ALBERTA PERSPECTIVES SURVEY: https://www.albertaperspectives.ca/hub CHECK OUT NORQUEST: https://www.norquest.ca/home.aspx 59:00 | A cold snap just about broke Alberta's power grid. Deportation looms for the man that caused a high-profile tragedy. People still don't know how to zipper merge. 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] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

Quick Dick McDick is one of Canada's most-watched YouTubers. Millions of people have watched his videos on farming, politics, cooking, and more. And, he's the only Real Talk guest (as far as we know) who's released a video of themselves taking a poop in the woods. 2:10 | @QuickDickMcDick joins us live from his farm near Tuffnell, Saskatchewan to talk about the future of prairie New Democrats, the impact of the carbon tax on family farms, a life-saving rescue involving his friend, and his booming stand-up comedy career. GIT YER QUICK DICK GEAR: https://quickdickmcdick.ca/ EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

Rachel Notley took the Alberta NDP from four to 54 seats in the Legislature. She took an unlikely bunch from obscurity to a majority government, and put her progressive stamp on a province that had seen back-to-back conservative dynasties. Upon announcing her intent to resign as leader of the now-Official Opposition, she triggers a race of legitimate contenders vying to be Alberta's next NDP premier. 2:40 | Former Energy Minister Marg McCuaig-Boyd, former Notley senior advisor Leah Ward, and founding president of the UCP Erika Barootes talk to us about Rachel's legacy, the scuttlebutt around potential leadership candidates, and the future of the Alberta NDP. 39:00 | Ryan shares some photos and a dance floor video (!) from his recent trip to Jasper. #MyJasper Memories is presented Wednesdays on Real Talk by our friends at @JasperAlberta @JasperAlberta . BOOK YOUR JASPER IN JANUARY GETAWAY: https://www.jasper.travel/january/ 51:00 | Real Talker Gillian moved to Alberta months before Rachel Notley's NDP formed government in 2015. She tells us what she thinks sets Notley apart from other politicians. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 56:03 | With a former Minister of Energy in studio, we can't help but address the near-blackout situation Alberta faced with its electricity grid under strain over the weekend. 1:04:10 | We bumped the originally-scheduled guest for this episode when Rachel Notley announced her resignation. He's one of Canada's most-watched YouTubers, so it's no surprise Quick Dick McDick had a little fun with our request to move his interview to Thursday, January 18. Ryan plays the response we received from @QuickDickMcDick . (It's amazing.) BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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 right-wing media personality Tucker Carlson visits Edmonton, Danielle Smith will be joining him on stage. Is it a mistake for Alberta's Premier to make a public appearance with the man who called immigrants "dirty" and white supremacy "a hoax"? 3:10 | Matthew Hays and Peter McCaffrey hash it out. READ MATTHEW'S PIECE: https://calgaryherald.com/opinion/columnists/opinion-should-smith-be-elevating-american-brand-of-misinformation CHECK OUT THE ALBERTA INSTITUTE: https://www.albertainstitute.ca/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

Why did Alberta need to issue an emergency alert about electricity amidst a deep freeze? How did the energy capital of Canada get to the point it can't meet its own power demand when extreme weather hits? Is it Rachel Notley's fault for moving away from coal? Is it past (or present) Conservative government's fault for deregulating the market and failing to secure reliable backup power? 4:00 | Energy economist David Gray takes the politics out of the conversation about Alberta's electricity grid, and explains why the province is in such a perilous position. FOLLOW DAVID ON TWITTER: @TheRealDKGray 27:08 | As Donald Trump looks to own the Iowa caucuses, is the writing on the wall for Nikki Haley and Ron DeSantis? Charles Adler calls it how he sees it. 55:57 | Eighteen months ago, Sarah Bisbee and her family said goodbye to their minivan. Since then, they've logged more than 10,000 km on their electric bikes. She tells us what prompted the move, and why it's not as difficult as most people might think. FOLLOW SARAH ON INSTAGRAM, TIK TOK and TWITTER: @mommypedals 1:21:00 | Inspired by our January 11, 2024 conversation about Magic Mushrooms and Coca leaves, Real Talker Cyrus shares his Macchu Pichu memories in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] BOOK YOUR FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kubyenergy.ca/ BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

Alexandra's had enough from the "eco-warrior" at the dog park, Larry thinks Ryan crossed the line with his Shrooms talk, and Garth says he's being misportrayed as an "oil-drunken hillbilly". All three fire up their Flamethrowers, presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] In Edmonton or Sherwood Park? Visit a DQ in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, or on Baseline Road!

The world didn't end when Canada legalized Cannabis. Should we do the same with Shrooms? Researchers tout mental health benefits from Psilocybin, yet the naturally-occurring psychedelic found in more than 200 species of fungi remains outlawed. 4:20 | Dana Larsen raised eyebrows when he mailed Shrooms and cocoa leaves to every MLA in BC. He tells us why he did it, talks about the fallout from Vancouver police raiding his mushroom dispensaries, and explains why he thinks all drugs should be legal. LEARN MORE ABOUT DANA'S DISPENSARY: https://mushroomdispensary.com/ 39:40 | Does Alberta really need more liquor stores? David Clement thinks the people should decide. The North American Director for the Consumer Choice Center explains why he thinks Premier Danielle Smith should loosen restrictions to allow grocery and convenience stores to sell booze. CHECK OUT THE CCC: https://consumerchoicecenter.org/ 57:35 | Brandi Morin was arrested by Edmonton Police, detained, and charged with Obstruction at an encampment site in Edmonton on January 10. The award-winning journalist (and Real Talk Editorial Board member) tells us what happened, and what she's seen and heard as the sites are being dismantled. 1:20:46 | Ryan's brother Kyle, along with Real Talkers "Stunt Doc" and Stean chime in on our January 10 Real Talk Round Table with Edmonton Councillor Aaron Paquette and Renee Vaugeois from the Coalition for Justice and Human Rights. 1:28:54 | Alexandra's had enough from the "eco-warrior" at the dog park, Larry thinks Ryan crossed the line with his Shrooms talk, and Garth says he's being misportrayed as an "oil-drunken hillbilly". All three fire up their Flamethrowers, presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park - Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

People across Canada are watching Edmonton Police dismantle homeless encampments as temperatures drop below -30C. Amid the outcry, we've seen fires, fatalities, weapons seizures, and other disturbing trends. Advocates say the shelter system is broken. The general public knows the whole situation is unsustainable. So...what's the fix? 2:50 | Edmonton Councillor Aaron Paquette and Renee Vaugeois of the Coalition for Justice and Human Rights get real about root causes, symptoms, systemic issues, and potential solutions. COALITION FOR JUSTICE.& HUMAN RIGHTS: https://www.coalition4jhr.org/ 53:35 | Peter Burgess lost his daughter Elan under shocking and tragic circumstances in July of 2007. Since then, he's raised more than $150,000 for the Stollery Children's Hospital through his "Freezing Father" initiative. Peter tells us Elan's story live from his winter camp. DONATE: https://www.freezingfather.org/ 1:11:00 | Jasper in January kicks off this weekend! Ryan highlights a few of the amazing events available to visitors through the month. JASPER IN JANUARY DETAILS: https://www.jasper.travel/january/ EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

Canada's plummeting in global rankings of gender parity in politics. Talented women are walking away from elected office. MP Leslyn Lewis is backing a conspiracy theory involving vaccines, sex ed, and the United Nations. Nobody appears to have a solution to the housing crisis. And BC politicians are up in arms after receiving magic mushrooms in the mail. WHY IS NOBODY TALKING ABOUT THIS? We connect with two of Canada's most to-the-point political commentators in this episode of Real Talk. 5:10 | Supriya Dwivedi's back to discuss her feature in Chatelaine and Dr. Leslyn Lewis joining forces with a loon. READ SUPRIYA'S PIECE IN CHATELAINE: https://chatelaine.com/longforms/female-politicians-canada-safety/ PRESS PROGRESS PIECE ON THE UN PETITION AUTHOR: https://pressprogress.ca/conservative-mp-helped-draft-text-of-conspiratorial-united-nations-petition-author-of-petition-says/ 43:00 | Mo Amir explains why landlord Pierre Poilievre won't lower your rent, why Lululemon's stock is soaring without Chip Wilson, and why shrooms should be legal. MARCH 4/21 REAL TALK ROUND TABLE ON PSYCHEDELICS: https://rtrj.info/030421Shrooms CHECK OUT THIS IS VANCOLOUR: https://www.thisisvancolour.com/ EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

Dr. Leslyn Lewis can't be serious. The high-profile Conservative MP is backing a petition calling for Canada to walk away from the United Nations. Dr. Lewis' critics (like Liberal MP Rob Oliphant) are calling on opposition leader Pierre Poilievre to speak out against Lewis' endorsement, wondering aloud if Conservative foreign policy would be to “abandon our international obligations on human rights, women’s rights, children and so much more". 6:07 | Does Canada need the UN? Does the UN need Canada? What might be the consequences of leaving the UN? Do questions like this even deserve our valuable time and attention? Charles Adler chimes in. 35:30 | Premier Danielle Smith isn't ruling out changes to Alberta's liquor retail regulations which would pave the way for supermarkets and convenience stores to enter the booze business. What's the ripple effect for entrepreneurs, including liquor store owners? The CEBA repayment deadline is looming. How many businesses will be able to meet their obligations...and what if they can't? Alberta Chambers of Commerce President and CEO Shauna Feth has her Eye on Alberta Business. CHECK OUT ALBERTA CHAMBERS: https://www.abchamber.ca/ 1:06:50 | We love this Positive Reflection submitted by Real Talker Justin about an orphaned cat that found a home amongst capybaras at a Malaysian zoo! SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ SIGN UP TO PLAY, VOLUNTEER, OR SPONSOR THE REAL TALK POND HOCKEY CLASSIC (FEB 3): https://ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen SIGN UP FOR THE REAL TALK POND HOCKEY CLASSIC: https://ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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 Gerald's demanding details from Ryan, and Real Talkers Stephen and Cameron have strong words for people pooh-poohing renewables. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected]

What's the right move with homeless encampments and open drug use? Should Canada ban cigarettes for good? Is it really that outrageous to suggest certain clothing brands aren't for everybody? Veteran broadcasters Lynda Steele and Jody Vance tackle these hot button questions and more in our first Real Talk Round Table of 2024. 0:15 | But first...got plans on Saturday, February 3? SIGN UP TO PLAY, VOLUNTEER, OR SPONSOR THE REAL TALK POND HOCKEY CLASSIC (FEB 3): https://ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey 2:45 | Jody Vance and Lynda Steele talk Alzheimer's, drug use in playgrounds, tent cities, Surrey's policing debacle, political parties at the municipal level, Health Canada's proposed cigarette ban, and billionaire Chip Wilson's controversial comments about Lululemon's marketing. CHECK OUT STEELE AND VANCE: https://www.cheknews.ca/shows/steele-and-vance/ 1:07:55 | Real Talker Gerald's demanding details from Ryan, and Real Talkers Stephen and Cameron have strong words for people pooh-poohing renewables. It's The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen SIGN UP FOR THE REAL TALK POND HOCKEY CLASSIC: https://ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

Andrew MacDougall held the highest-profile communications job in Canada, as Prime Minister Stephen Harper's director of comms. His boss is generally remembered as tight-lipped around media and hostile toward scientific researchers. 5:13 | Now a director at Trafalgar Strategy in the UK, MacDougall tells us about the evolution of his position on the politics of climate action, how the Harper era compares to the Trudeau (and Poilievre) era, the UK's renewables boon, and the future of Canada's energy industry. WATCH OUR JUNE 20 INTERVIEW WITH "FIRE WEATHER" AUTHOR JOHN VAILLANT: rtrj.info/062023Vaillant 40:03 | Real Talker Garth says the oil and gas industry is being treated unfairly. Real Talker Gabe says Canadians need to give their heads a shake re: emissions. Ryan reads their emails to [email protected]. 51:00 | Real Talker Carolyn says Charles Adler deserves a spanking. Ryan reads her email about Chuck's call to deport the driver responsible for the Humboldt Broncos bus crash. 1:01:38 | Real Talker Gillian is "finally" able to enjoy hockey again! Ryan reads her email about the PWHL. SIGN UP TO PLAY, VOLUNTEER, OR SPONSOR THE REAL TALK POND HOCKEY CLASSIC (FEB 3): https://ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen SIGN UP FOR THE REAL TALK POND HOCKEY CLASSIC: https://ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

What is the next great disruption? Which new innovation will be most transformative? Exactly how will AI continue to change the game? What are the updated secrets to success in 2024? 2:00 | Innovation strategist and best-selling author Shawn Kanungo tells us how this year will be most different from the year previous. He explains why strategy is energy, predicts The Death of Superstars, and tells us how to best position ourselves in a dynamic, competitive job market. CHECK OUT SHAWN'S BOOK: https://shawnkanungo.com/ 43:55 | It's a magical time of year to visit Jasper! Ryan lays out the perfect weekend itinerary in #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. LEARN MORE ABOUT JASPER IN JANUARY: https://www.jasper.travel/january/ 1:08:50 | A Mom keeps her son's memory alive by shipping his vinyl collection around the world: it's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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're shaking things up in the final Flamethrower of 2023, presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! Jenny, Sarah, KO, Johnny, and Jespo give us their own personal rants. (Ryan really turns up the temperature at the end!) FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] When you visit the DQs in Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road, tell 'em Real Talk send you!

It's our final episode of 2023! Enjoy what is arguably The Most Entertaining Real Talk Round Table of the Year. 2:30 | Jenny Adams, Sarah Hamilton, and Katherine O'Neill give us their top news stories - in Alberta, across the country, and around the world. 1:07:10 | We're shaking things up in the final Flamethrower of 2023, presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! Jenny, Sarah, KO, Johnny, and Jespo give us their own personal rants. (Ryan really turns up the temperature at the end!) FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen SIGN UP FOR THE REAL TALK POND HOCKEY CLASSIC: https://ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

It's a recurring conversation in Canada, if not around the world: is Canadian oil more "ethical" than oil from elsewhere, is activity in Alberta's oil sands "clean" enough...and does any of this actually matter on the international stage? A couple of episodes ago, David Knight Legg argued the world needs more Alberta for three main reasons. In this episode, our guests fact check those three points. CHECK OUT THAT EPISODE: https://rtrj.info/121823DKL 2:45 | Markham Hislop, publisher of Energi Media, takes issue with DKL's claim that Alberta's producing the cleanest barrels of oil in the world. READ MARKHAM'S WORK: https://energi.media/ 22:55 | Dr. Andrew Leach says he agrees with some of what DKL had to say, but not all. The author of "Between Doom & Denial: Facing Facts About Climate Change" lays it out. ORDER ANDREW'S BOOK: https://sutherlandhousebooks.com/product/between-doom-and-denial/ 48:35 | It's a magical time of year to visit Jasper! We highlight some of the most spectacular holiday culinary options in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. BOOK YOUR JASPER GETAWAY: https://www.jasper.travel/january/ 51:00 | Would you choose to work 100% from home, 100% at the office, or a mix of both? Ryan reads comments after our December 19 Real Talk Round Table with Heather Thomson, Puneeta McBryan, and Cory Wosnack. 56:35 | An overwhelming majority of Real Talkers think Jaskirat Singh Sidhu should be allowed to stay in Canada. Ryan reviews the results of our unofficial, unscientific Twitter poll. 1:01:10 | Ryan reads one of the most powerful emails we've ever received, from Real Talker Brandon, a family member of killer Robert Svekla. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen SIGN UP FOR THE REAL TALK POND HOCKEY CLASSIC: https://ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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

What does the future look like for workers, job seekers, employers, entrepreneurs, and property owners? Is it really a doomsday scenario for downtowns? When will we see restored confidence in new business ventures? Will employers ever expect a full "return to work" scenario? We explore the most relevant and interesting trends in this episode of Real Talk. 1:45 | Heather Thomson, Puneeta McBryan, and Cory Wosnack look back at 2023, then ahead to 2024, through their expert lenses (and crystal balls). EDMONTON DBA: https://www.edmontondowntown.com/ CENTRE FOR CITIES & COMMUNITIES: https://www.ualberta.ca/business/centres/cities-communities/index.html AVISON YOUNG: https://www.avisonyoung.ca/web/edmonton EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

Jaskirat Singh Sidhu is responsible for one of the most horrific collisions in Canadian history. He was handed an eight-year sentence in 2019 after pleading guilty to dangerous driving causing death and bodily harm in the April 6, 2018 crash that killed 16 members of the Humboldt Broncos hockey club and injured 13 others. Now, he faces deportation to India. Is that justice served? 3:00 | But first, David Knight Legg, former principal advisor to Premier Jason Kenney, tells us why he thinks Canada blew a big opportunity at COP28. READ DKL'S PIECE IN THE POST: https://nationalpost.com/opinion/david-knight-legg-if-guilbeault-actually-cared-about-coal-burning-hed-back-natural-gas 42:15 | Charles Adler doesn't need more than a minute to tell us how he feels about Jaskirat Singh Sidhu being deported: it's black and white for Chuck. Not so for Ryan. TAKE OUR TWITTER POLL: https://twitter.com/ryanjespersen/status/1736786168170299434 1:26:30 | Ryan reads a feel-good email from Real Talker Stef, checking in from Nelson, BC. 1:28:00 | We love the Fresh Nets initiative, highlighted in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. CHECK IT OUT: https://freshnets.ca/ SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

Why can't people figure out how to zipper merge? When did conservatism become radicalism? And what the hell are we going to do about sick kids on mattresses in hospital hallways? Real Talkers fire up their Flamethrowers, courtesy the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park: Newcastle, Westmount, Palisades, Namao, and Baseline Road. FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected]

As long as oil rides high, Alberta's flush. But while the province is on pace for a $5B+ budget surplus, property taxes are on the rise in virtually every community, as everyday folks struggle to pay their basic monthly bills. As you'll see early in this episode, our Real Talk Round Table is sounding the alarm. 3:20 | Mayor Tyler Gandam (Wetaskiwin), Councillor Andrew Knack (Edmonton), and Councillor Krista Gardner (Calmar) explain what Alberta municipalities will soon look like if the province doesn't pony up $1.75B in infrastructure funding. Our Alberta Municipalities panel gives us their top political storylines for 2023, including policing and public safety, healthcare shortages, and political parties infiltrating municipal elections. CHECK OUT ALBERTA MUNICIPALITIES ONLINE: https://www.abmunis.ca/ 1:16:00 | Why can't people figure out how to zipper merge? When did conservatism become radicalism? And what the hell are we going to do about sick kids on mattresses in hospital hallways? Real Talkers fire up their Flamethrowers, courtesy the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park: Newcastle, Westmount, Palisades, Namao, and Baseline Road. FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

Hospitals are bursting at the seams. Patients are waiting a year and a half for surgery. Doctors, nurses, and paramedics are walking away from careers they once dreamed of having. Meantime, Ottawa's spending billions on a new dental care plan - but Canadians have a ton of questions. We get the straight goods from Alberta doctors and dentists in this episode of Real Talk. 0:30 | But first...today's a great day to sign up for the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic! You won't want to miss this amazing annual event on Saturday, February 3 in St. Albert, all in support of a great cause. REGISTER TO PLAY, SPONSOR, OR VOLUNTEER: https://ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey 4:40 | Dr. Paul Parks, president of the Alberta Medical Association, tells us about the province-wide tour he just completed, his recent meeting with the Health Minister, concerns around public funding for naturopaths, pushback on nurse practitioner clinics, and questions around why the Chief Medical Officer of Health hasn't been seen in public for weeks. CHECK OUT THE AMA ONLINE: https://www.albertadoctors.org/services/media-publications/presidents-letter/pl-archive/acute-care-we-are-acting-for-you 31:45 | Are you looking for a different holiday gift this season? Real Talk is proud to support the work of HOPE International. Ryan talks about his personal experience with their giving catalogue. SUPPORT HOPE INTERNATIONAL: https://gifts.hope-international.com/ 36:40 | Ottawa's spending billions of dollars on a new Canadian Dental Care Plan. Despite Monday's announcement, details are sparse regarding who's eligible and when, implications for existing dental insurance, etc. We talk to Dr. Jenny Doerksen from the Alberta Dental Association. MORE ON THE CANADIAN DENTAL CARE PLAN: https://www.albertadentalassociation.ca/2023/12/11/dentists-and-their-patients-still-have-questions-about-the-canadian-dental-care-plan/ 56:35 | "Life comes at you fast...especially in dog years." Real Talker Jared sent us this amazing email just hours after losing his beloved dog Augie. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

In just six weeks, Premier Danielle Smith's government hit the (nuclear) reset button on healthcare delivery, invoked the Sovereignty Act over federal clean electricity regulations, kinda sorta committed to a referendum on an Alberta Pension Plan, and took a record-setting delegation to COP28 in Dubai. 5:50 | The Discourse hosts Cheryl Oates and Erika Barootes lay out the biggest stories to come out of Fall Session, and give their predictions for what to expect in Alberta politics in 2024. SUBSCRIBE TO THE DISCOURSE ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@UC1WjKtBGH6U0S6HDePuLjkw THE DISCOURSE PODCAST: https://thediscoursepod.podbean.com/ 57:00 | There's a new dinner and theatre experience in Jasper...but don't delay, or you'll miss it! We take a look at a wonderful holiday offering from Jasper Theater Productions in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. GET YOUR TICKETS: https://jaspertheater.ca/ 1:00:55 | Real Talker Riley's heartbroken after hearing our interview with Tristin Hopper on December 12. Real Talkers Brad and Jason have something to say about Charles Adler's comments about plastic straws on December 11. Ryan reads their emails to [email protected]. BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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 all about optics. How bad is it when the federal NDP leader (the "working class" party) rocks a Versace tote bag in public? How about when the mayor of Calgary pulls out of a Hanukkah celebration? And why are everyday moderates leaving The Left? 5:24 | National Post columnist Tristin Hopper takes on the politics of Hannukah in 2023, NDP leader Jagmeet Singh's expensive taste (25:00), and why moderates are fleeing The Left (38:00). READ HOPPER'S PIECE ON THE VERSACE BAG: https://nationalpost.com/opinion/satire-dear-diary-versace-bag 56:20 | Real Talker "Travis" is pissed about our climate change conversation with Charles Adler on December 11, and Real Talker "Lauren" expects more from our discussions about homelessness. Ryan reads their emails (cursing and all). EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] SUPPORT REAL TALK ON PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

Should Mayor Jyoti Gondek have told a little white lie to get out of Calgary's annual menorah lighting at City Hall? How many more university presidents need to resign across the United States? Have climate change doomsday prophets lost the room? 3:50 | Charles Adler gives us a healthy dose of Canadian Common Sense - the language around climate change (7:20), Mayor Gondek's menorah lighting snub (28:30), UPenn president's resignation (39:45), Indian interference in Canada (38:40), and carbon tax = inflation (49:40). 1:07:40 | We love it when a lottery win goes to the person who needs it more than anybody else. That's the case in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. TELL US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ ORDER YOUR REAL TALK MERCH: https://ryanjespersen.com/merch BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

Tom's demanding an explanation around Alberta's attendance at COP. Cheryl's giving Ryan an award (not a compliment). Michael the Conservative says people need to vacate their echo chambers. Angela's clapping back at a recent email targeting Westlock town council. They've all fired up their Flamethrowers, presented Fridays on Real Talk by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected]

Alberta's been in the spotlight for much of COP28. The province sent the biggest provincial delegation in Canada's history at COP. It also received a "Fossil of the Day Award" by the Climate Action Network (not a good thing). We welcome three Albertans who attended the UN Climate Change Convention to find out why they went, what they said and saw there, and what they hope comes of it all. 2:10 | Calgary Climate Hub co-founder Dr. Joe Vipond checks in from Dubai, while UN Knowledge Keeper Sharon Morin joins Ryan in studio. CALGARY CLIMATE HUB: https://www.calgaryclimatehub.ca/ 24:05 | Varme Energy CEO Sean Collins joins the conversation from Norway. CHECK OUT VARME ENERGY: https://www.varme.ca/ 55:50 | Tom's demanding an explanation around Alberta's attendance at COP. Cheryl's giving Ryan an award (not a compliment). Michael the Conservative says people need to vacate their echo chambers. Angela's clapping back at a recent email targeting Westlock town council. They've all fired up their Flamethrowers, presented Fridays on Real Talk by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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's rolled out a "strict" framework to cap oil and gas emissions, and you'll never guess what: the prairie premiers hate it. The federal Environment Minister and Jobs Minister both join us (from Dubai and Ottawa, respectively) to talk COP28, Alberta vs. the feds, Cap and trade, carbon capture tech, and plastics bans. 1:30 | But first...make sure you don't miss the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic on Saturday, February 3, 2024! REGISTER TO PLAY, VOLUNTEER, OR SPONSOR: https://ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey 3:30 | Adrienne Arsenault had CBC president Catherine Tait in the hot seat the other night. Ryan and Johnny discuss 600+ layoffs at the national broadcaster, and bigger implications. 20:30 | Have you seen the Lincoln Project's latest hit piece on Donald Trump? 26:40 | Real Talker "Dr. Paul" worked with a bunch of Nurse Practitioners through his career in the NICU. Ryan reads Dr. Paul's email in response to our recent Real Talk Round Table. WATCH THAT ROUND TABLE: rtrj.info/113023RTRT EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 31:30 | Grade nine students at an Alaska high school butchered a moose in science class. Ryan and Johnny chat about it - you've got to see the photo! 43:10 | Real Talker "Brock" takes issue with MLA Janis Irwin and some of her NDP colleagues. Ryan reads Brock's email in response to our conversation with Dave Cournoyer and Deron Bilous. CATCH THAT CONVO: rtrj.info/120623ABNDP 48:18 | Canada's Minister of Environment and Climate Change Steve Guilbeault joins us live from COP28 in Dubai. 1:12:30 | Canada's Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages Randy Boissonnault joins us live from Ottawa to discuss the new federal oil and gas cap. BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/

Despite losing the election in May, the Alberta NDP has a lot of things going for it. The party won more seats in (typically conservative) Calgary than the UCP did. It earned more total votes across the province than when it formed government in 2015. While leader Rachel Notley hasn't yet resigned, it's widely expected she'll trigger the race to replace her in the new year. So...who will it be? 2:10 | Ryan pins down former NDP cabinet minister Deron Bilous and longtime political commentator Dave Cournoyer, insisting they name names in Dave's annual Alberta Politics Survey. TAKE DAVEBERTA'S ALBERTA POLITICS POLL: https://daveberta.ca/ 46:15 | Before we know it, Jasper in January will be back! Ryan highlights some of this year's top draws in #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. BOOK YOUR JASPER IN JANUARY GETAWAY: https://www.jasper.travel/ 49:00 | Does the Alberta NDP need to change its name? Who will the new leader be? The guys discuss what 2024 might look like for Alberta's Official Opposition. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

Danielle Smith's critics say there's no way to justify Alberta sending a delegation to Dubai for the UN Climate Change Convention. Her supporters say that's where business is done, and Alberta would be foolish to miss out. In this episode of Real Talk, National Observer columnist Max Fawcett tells us where he lands, before getting into the Alberta NDP's upcoming leadership race and Pierre Poilievre's viral housing video. 0:45 | But first...registration is open for the third annual Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic. It's sure to sell out, so don't delay! SIGN UP: https://ryanjespersen.com/pond-hockey 2:40 | Max Fawcett talks COP-28, the difference between Jason Kenney's UCP and Danielle Smith's UCP, the next leader of the Alberta NDP, and Pierre Poilievre's viral housing video. READ MAX'S WORK: https://www.nationalobserver.com/ 1:01:30 | Can the leader of the federal NDP - the "socialist" party - get away with rocking a Rolex and carrying a Versace bag? Ryan and Johnny discuss Jagmeet Singh's latest optics issue. 1:08:12 | Have you checked out the newest episode of The Discourse? Cheryl Oates and Erika Barootes field a question from one of their listeners - Alberta Premier Danielle Smith. CHECK OUT THE DISCOURSE ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@UC1WjKtBGH6U0S6HDePuLjkw SUBSCRIBE TO THE DISCOURSE PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/the-discourse/id1713385479 EMAIL US: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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's increasing tax credits for journalism outlets. Alberta's got 100 representatives at COP-28. Everybody's got an opinion on what's a wise use of your tax dollars and what's a waste. We get into both stories - and talk about return on public investment - in this episode of Real Talk. 3:35 | The feds struck a deal with Google worth $100M/yr, but is it a win? Is the agreement a step in the right direction toward saving journalism in Canada? Dr. Michael Geist takes the politics out of the story, and gets to the straight goods. READ MORE: https://www.michaelgeist.ca/ 29:20 | Why is Charles Adler laughing off polling showing Canadians think life would be more affordable under Pierre Poilievre? Is it hypocritical to criticize Alberta for sending a 100-person delegation to COP-28? Ryan gets into it with the Titan of Talk. 1:01:40 | Employment is up in Alberta, DOW's got a $12B deal, and rallies against the carbon tax are gaining momentum. Alberta Chambers of Commerce president and CEO Shauna Feth shines the spotlight on Alberta business. ALBERTA CHAMBERS OF COMMERCE: https://www.abchamber.ca/ OCTOBER LABOUR FORCE STATS: https://open.alberta.ca/dataset/7124f6a2-9de2-44ec-a30b-3430aca3a4cd/resource/8aef4579-3758-4122-9313-61d7ac993969/download/tbf-labour-market-notes-2023-11.pdf SHOP LOCAL THIS HOLIDAY SEASON: https://chambermarket.ca/ 1:20:40 | Thanks to Real Talker Karen for submitting this week's Positive Reflection: a heart-warming story of unlikely inter-generational roommates! SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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 Talkers are all fired up about "natural stupidity," the Councillor Jennifer Rice controversy in Edmonton, political parties at the municipal level, the Alberta Pension Plan idea, and the town of Westlock voting on banning Pride flags and crosswalks. The Flamethrower is presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park: Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road.

Nurse practitioners are being encouraged to open their own clinics, as part of Alberta's plan to address a growing shortage of family doctors. NPs are qualified registered nurses with additional education to take their skills to the next level. While the government's decision appears to be a no-brainer, not everybody loves it (most especially family docs). 2:55 | Athabasca U president Dr. Alex Clark, Dr. Jennifer Knopp-Sihota, and recent graduate Chantelle Gray explain what nurse practitioners do (and don't do), address dissatisfaction expressed by the AMA, and tell us what else they'd do to fix healthcare in Alberta. MORE ON NP-LED CLINICS: https://www.athabascau.ca/news/faculty/faculty-of-health-disciplines/what-do-nurse-practitioner-led-clinics-mean-for-health-care-in-alberta DR. CLARK'S OP/ED: https://edmontonjournal.com/opinion/columnists/opinion-nursing-practitioners-a-solution-hidden-in-plain-sight OUR RECENT INTERVIEW WITH FAMILY DOC BRADLEY MARTIN: rtrj.info/111423Martin OUR RECENT INTERVIEW WITH AMA PRESIDENT DR. PAUL PARKS: rtrj.info/110923Parks 47:10 | Ryan and Johnny read audience feedback after the Real Talk Round Table. 49:00 | Ryan revisits his comments earlier this week on homelessness, and reads a few comments from our Instagram post. 1:11:40 | WTF is Elon Musk doing? Ryan and Johnny touch on Musk telling Disney CEO Bob Iger to "G-F-Y". (Yikes!) 1:19:35 | Real Talkers are all fired up about "natural stupidity," the Councillor Jennifer Rice controversy in Edmonton, political parties at the municipal level, the Alberta Pension Plan idea, and the town of Westlock voting on banning Pride flags and crosswalks. The Flamethrower is presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park: Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road. FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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 government is pushing heat pumps. Right around the time the Liberals paused the carbon price for home heating oil, they committed to working with provincial governments to subsidize heat pumps for lower-income Canadians. Premiers Scott Moe and Danielle Smith are the loudest critic of the plan, saying the technology isn't a serious counter to the cold of a Canadian winter. 4:12 | Patrick McMahon has designed and managed residential retrofit rebate programs for the City of Edmonton and Energy Efficiency Alberta. Now the GM of Energuy, Patrick explains how heat pumps work, and tells us who's right: the climate activists who say heat pumps are silver bullets, or Premiers Moe and Smith, who say they're useless on the Prairies. 39:52 | There's an amazing new way to explore magnificent Maligne Canyon! Catch the details in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. LEARN MORE: https://www.sundogtours.com/ 42:00 | Ryan digs deeper into Danielle Smith's plan to establish a new Crown corporation. 54:15 | Real Talker Cindy gets real about affordability challenges facing disability-impacted families. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

Danielle Smith is doubling down on her defiance of Ottawa's Clean Energy Regulations. Alberta's Premier invoked the Sovereignty Act, saying she'll fight the feds in court over a mandate to get Alberta's grid to Net-Zero by 2035. Meantime, Edmonton councillor Jennifer Rice is in the hot seat after burning through 19 (!) staffers in two years in what insiders call a "tyrannical" work environment. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. Oh, and new polling shows Justin Trudeau's Liberals are on pace to lose more than 100 seats in the House of Commons. 5:15 | Charles Adler takes on all of the above, and tells us what he thinks about Alberta outlawing photo radar on ring roads. 1:01:15 | Once-legendary publication Sports Illustrated has been exposed for straight-up lying to their readers. Ryan and Johnny talk about AI infiltrating sports journalism. OUR INTERVIEW W/ EDWARD TIAN ABOUT GPT Zero: https://rtrj.info/011023Tian 1:07:30 | Real Talker Jillian promised her Positive Reflections submission would make us smile...and she was right! We love how photographer Helga Stentzel uses everyday clothing to create images of faces, animals, and much more! CHECK OUT HELGA STENTZEL ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/helga.stentzel/?img_index=1 SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

Pollution and pensions plans are front and centre in this fiery edition of The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected]

Midlife is an interesting place to be. You may be caring for kids while caring for your parents. You've likely experienced love, and heartbreak, and wins, and losses. Midlife No. 2 is a collection of essays sharing Canadian reflections on critical midlife topics like housing, home, birth, death, race, identity, gruelling courses of medical treatment, and the COVID and post-COVID eras. All authored by former staffers at the University of Alberta's newspaper The Gateway. You'll hear from six of them in this special edition of our Real Talk Round Table. 3:10 | Sarah Chan tells us how a Gondola ride got her thinking. Jhen Pabillano shares her Lessons in Letting Go. Neil Parmar muses on No Place At All. 30:05 | Erika Thorkelson has a new take on Haunted Mansions. Dave Alexander gets deep about Head Smashed In Buffalo Jump. Neal Ozano explains how he started seeing "scrapportunities". BUY THE BOOK: https://www.midlifebook.ca/ 58:30 | Ryan and John muse about what they just heard, including thoughts on the social pressures around alcohol. 1:05:40 | Pollution and pensions plans are front and centre in this fiery edition of The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

It's our third birthday! Thanks to the millions of you who've watched or listened to Real Talk ever since we launched, and those that have discovered this community more recently. Ryan and Johnny kick off this episode with a special shout out to Real Talkers just like you. 6:25 | Planet Earth's on pace for a three degree rise in temperature, with catastrophic consequences. Meantime, the carbon tax could be on its way out in Canada, and the Supreme Court struck down Ottawa's toxic plastics ban. It's not an easy time to be a climate activist. Seth Klein explains how young people could turn the tide, why the carbon tax was never the silver bullet, and why Canada needs more heat pumps. READ SETH'S BOOK: https://www.sethklein.ca/book READ HIS NATIONAL OBSERVER PIECE: https://www.nationalobserver.com/2023... CHECK OUT THE SURVEY RESULTS: https://static1.squarespace.com/stati... "APPLY" FOR THE YOUTH CLIMATE CORPS: https://www.goodgreenjobsforall.ca/ EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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 don't know much about what an Alberta Pension Plan would actually look like. Up for debate: the amount Alberta could pull out of the national plan, whether or not contributions and draws would actually be higher or lower than with the CPP, who would influence where the funds would be invested, and how long the province's demographics would sustain an Alberta pension advantage. So, basically, everything. We go on a fact finding mission in this episode of Real Talk. 3:00 | Murray Gold is one of Canada's preeminent pension experts. Gil McGowan represents 175,000 workers as president of the Alberta Federation of Labour. They get into a new report questioning the wisdom of an Alberta Pension Plan. READ THE REPORT: https://afl.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Big-Risks-No-Rewards-pension-report-15NOV23.pdf 50:00 | You might know it as Black Friday, but in Jasper, the big days for deals is called Moonlight Madness! We highlight a few great investments waiting for you in Jasper National Park in this edition of #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. PLAN YOUR JASPER GETAWAY: https://www.jasper.travel/ 54:00 | Real Talker Michael believes the Alberta NDP needs a rebrand, and Real Talker Ron needs to get something off his chest re: Israel and Hamas. Ryan dips into the Real Talk Mailbag. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

CSIS says foreign states are targeting Canadians through social media. The general public is losing trust in institutions. Vaccination rates are way down. Many people simply don't know who they can trust. 3:00 | This is Professor Timothy Caulfield's wheelhouse. The professor of health law and science policy, author, TV host, and speaker joins Ryan in studio for a fascinating conversation about the information ecosystem, the politics of health policy (including Preston Manning's COVID report), and the "both sides" conundrum facing journalists. READ TIM'S "HEALTHY DEBATE" PIECE: https://healthydebate.ca/2023/08/topic/bothsidesism-scientific-consensus-matters/ CHECK OUT THE DISCOURSE ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/9w3e5JG7saY?si=FPSaPuZV19tpaInd 57:00 | You've got a lot to say about our coverage of the Israel-Hamas war. Ryan reads emails from Real Talkers Michael, Kyle, and Jenny. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

The University of Alberta fired the head of its campus sexual assault centre after she signed an open letter calling reports of sexual violence during Hamas’s Oct. 7 attack on Israel an “unverified accusation.” What the hell was she thinking? Whatever happened to believing survivors? And what's with union leaders and Pride Centre execs signing on, too? Is anybody actually thinking this through? 3:05 | Ariella Kimmel and Kristin Raworth talk to us about the "so-called feminists" who signed the open letter, and why it's inherently anti-Semitic. READ THEIR PIECE: https://www.readtheline.ca/p/kristin-raworth-and-ariella-kimmel SEE WHO ELSE SIGNED THE OPEN LETTER: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeQunbQuMjaKhUF90LqP7rmRPYLGHzSX5FjPMzHPC-rVPromw/viewform?pli=1 34:50 | Charles Adler might still be a bit stunned by what happened to his Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the final 20 seconds of the Grey Cup. We talk CFL, unions making political endorsements, and whether or not Canadians still care about the environment (based on a recent Angus Reid poll). 1:14:10 | Real Talker Stacey writes in from New Brunswick in response to our November 17 Real Talk Round Table on Canada's affordability crisis. 1:17:45 | Real Talker Landon shares the story of Ronald McNair, whose left an amazing legacy despite his tragic death at just 35 years of age. Positive Reflections is presented Mondays on Real Talk by our friends at Kuby Renewable Energy. SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kubyenergy.ca/ BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

Shots fired! Lance from The Pas has thoughts on the APP, Gerald's not sold on private healthcare, Kyle wants hands off his TFSAs, and Judy just wants a wave! THE FLAMETHROWER is presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park: Palisades, Namao, Newcastle, Westmount, and Baseline Road. Tell 'em Real Talk sent you!

Who can even afford to live anymore? Groceries are up. Utilities are up. Insurance is up. Mortgages are up. Rents are up. Tuition's up. What's NOT up? Disposable incomes. This episode of Real Talk is dedicated to finding solutions for Canadians just barely getting by. 3:00 | Yasmin Abraham, Cherise Burda, and Dr. Brendan Haley are taking action on affordability. The members of the IRPP's new Affordability Action Council talk solutions on our Real Talk Round Table. LEARN MORE: https://irpp.org/affordability/ 1:11:15 | Our November 16 conversation about anti-Semitism with Tasha Kheiriddin resonated with Real Talker Charlie. 1:13:50 | Real Talker Mitzi isn't sure about Manslaughter charges for Matt Petgrave, but she says something needs to be done in the wake of Adam Johnson's tragic death. 1:22:20 | Shots fired! Lance from The Pas has thoughts on the APP, Gerald's not sold on private healthcare, Kyle wants hands off his TFSAs, and Judy just wants a wave! Real Talkers are all fired up for this week's Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! VISIT THE DAIRY QUEENS IN PALISADES, NAMAO, NEWCASTLE, WESTMOUNT, & BASELINE ROAD...tell 'em Real Talk sent you! BUST OUT YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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 no "quick fix" for the issues leading the headlines. Anti-Semitism and Islamophobia is on the rise, news outlets are dying on the vine, and politics are infiltrating your pension plan. Senator Paula Simons and Tasha Kheiriddin share potential solutions in this thought-provoking episode of Real Talk. 3:00 | Senator Paula Simons explains why the Liberals' Online News Act is such a disaster, why an Alberta Pension Plan might be an even bigger disaster, what she makes of rampant anti-Semitism and Islamophobia in Canada, and her annual Yegquest initiative. READ PAULA'S PENSION COLUMN: https://albertaviews.ca/pension-folly/ PARTICIPATE IN YEGQUEST: https://www.instagram.com/hendayyegchick/ 45:00 | Real Talker Rob is riled up over Alberta's threat to pull out of the Canada Pension Plan. EMAIL US: [email protected] 48:30 | Real Talker Robb has a theory around the UCP's changes to Alberta Health Services. 51:35 | Ryan touches on the Red Deer Catholic School Board turfing controversial (former) trustee Monique LaGrange. 55:45 | We love hearing from our haters! Ryan and Johnny have some fun with a message from Don after our November 15 chat with Toronto Star columnist Bruce Arthur. 59:25 | Political analyst, author, and lawyer Tasha Kheiriddin says Gen Z has "nothing to remember" about the Holocaust. We talk about the rise of anti-Semitism in Canada, and the international community's role in pursuing peace in the Middle East. READ TASHA'S OP/ED: https://nationalpost.com/opinion/we-said-wed-never-forget-the-holocaust-but-gen-z-has-nothing-to-remember 1:21:05 | Real Talker Crystal says she's never been more scared to be Jewish. 1:26:50 | Ryan responds to criticism around Real Talk's coverage of the Israel-Hamas war. BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

It's a horrific story: hockey player Adam Johnson dies after an opposing player's skate slashes his neck. Two weeks after the tragedy, British police arrest a man on suspicion of manslaughter. The hockey world (and society at large) is split: was a crime committed on the ice that night? 2:45 | Toronto Star columnist Bruce Arthur tells us why he doesn't think Matt Petgrave should face charges in Adam Johnson's death. Plus, we get into Bruce's column on how the internet (and social media) is making the Israel-Hamas war even worse. READ BRUCE IN THE STAR: https://www.thestar.com/opinion/star-columnists/what-will-help-ease-the-latest-mideast-crisis-well-it-won-t-be-the-internet/article_39c7beba-7f29-5cb5-9df1-4b0fe313fb16.html 1:09:00 | Marmot Basin opens tomorrow! Learn more about the new Knob Quad and family-friendly details (including discounts and child care) in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. CHECK OUT LIVE WEB CAMS AT MARMOT BASIN: https://www.skimarmot.com/ 1:12:10 | Real Talker Michael says we need to "do better" in covering the Israel-Hamas war. Ryan reads Michael's email to [email protected]. 1:23:20 | Real Talker Karen tells a first-hand story about her support of the Juno Beach Centre. SUPPORT THE FLAG SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM: https://www.junobeach.org/ BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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 of Real Talk includes updates on two people we've featured in past. One international, one closer to home - both are tough pills to swallow, but are important stories to be told. 3:20 | Ryan opens the Charles Adler interview with an update on Vivian Silver, who was believed to be taken hostage by Hamas on October 7. Later, Charles tells us why he was so put off by Piers Morgan's interview with Jeremy Corbyn about the terrorist group. Before signing off, Adler explains why he was so impacted by recent ageism aimed at the Princess of Wales. 20:50 | Real Talker Chris wonders what "old school Conservatives" were *actually* like. Ryan reads his email to Charles, who answers without hesitation. 48:00 | At just 35 years of age, family physician (and Real Talker) Dr. Bradley Martin is walking away from his rural clinic. He tells us why he made the difficult decision, what might have changed his mind, and what he thinks of the UCP's overhaul of Alberta Health Services. 1:30:00 | We feature the wonderful story of Annie the dog, shared by Real Talker Brayden from Coquitlam, in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ FOLLOW US ON TIKTOK, TWITTER, & INSTAGRAM: @realtalkrj 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.

Calgary Chris is convinced privatized healthcare is coming to Alberta, Lisa is dead set against an APP, and Darrell's wondering where all the poppies are. We fire up The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected]