Real Talk Ryan Jespersen

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]

Remembrance Day has evolved over the years. Canada's role in international peacekeeping missions, along with Afghanistan, Kosovo, Latvia, and other parts of the world has reminded a new generation of the sacrifices our military members and their families make every day. You'll hear three very different and powerful perspectives during this special episode as Real Talk Remembers. 1:04 | Real Talk is proud to join our presenting sponsor We Know Training in supporting the Juno Beach Centre Association's Flags for Juno 80 effort. Ryan opens the show with details on how you can help honour the sacrifices made by Canadians who contributed to victory in the Second World War. DONATE TO THE JUNO BEACH CENTRE: https://www.junobeach.org/ 2:55 | Lt. Col. (Ret.) Laurie Hawn, Col. Chris Hunt, and Hon. Col. J'lyn Nye join us for a Remembrance Day edition of the Real Talk Round Table. Don't miss this meaningful conversation about the past, present, and future of Canadians serving at home and around the world. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CANADIAN FORCES: https://forces.ca/en/ NO STONE LEFT ALONE: https://www.nostoneleftalone.ca/ MILITARY FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE: https://cfmws.ca/ LEARN ABOUT RAY GILBERT: https://themilitarymuseums.ca/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=311:w80-ray-gilbert&catid=113:second-world-war 1:12:25 | 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] 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

It's happening: the Danielle Smith government is completely overhauling Alberta Health Services, starting from the top all the way down. While nobody can claim the current system is working flawlessly, there are a million different concerns around how the changes may affect frontline workers and the millions of patients that rely on the system every year. 2:28 | Minister of Health Adriana LaGrange takes questions on expert policy consultation, recruiting and retaining healthcare workers, preserving system integration, service delivery beyond acute care, privatization, and political ideology influencing health policy. 19:17 | Alberta Medical Association president Dr. Paul Parks tells us how Alberta doctors feel about the UCP's plan to overhaul healthcare delivery. CHECK OUT THE AMA ONLINE: https://www.albertadoctors.org/ 45:27 | Is Alberta's renewables landscape really as "Wild West" as the province would have us believe? Is the moratorium on new wind and solar projects defensible, or is the regulator (AUC) already doing its job? Dr. Ian Urquhart takes us into his Alberta Views feature "Where to Put a Solar Farm". REAL TALKERS: KNOCK 50% OFF A ONE-YEAR SUBSCRIPTION TO ALBERTA VIEWS WITH THE PROMO CODE "AVRJ" -- https://albertaviews.ca/ BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 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.

Information leaked to the NDP put Albertans on notice: the province is overhauling Alberta Health Services in dramatic fashion. Hours later, Health Minister Adriana LaGrange confirmed the UCP is replacing executive leadership, redirecting oversight and accountability, and considering foundational changes across the board. 0:25 | Ryan opens the show with his own thoughts on the UCP plan to blow up and rebuild AHS, and what it means for you. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] UPDATE: Minister LaGrange joins Ryan on Thursday's show. Watch or listen live at 8:30am MT or later on demand. 16:00 | Filmmaker Nisreen Baker tells us why she made "Arab Women Say What?!," and explains its relevance to the Israel-Hamas war. SEE THE FILM ON NOV. 9 IN EDMONTON: https://www.metrocinema.org/production/arab-women-say-what/ LEARN MORE: https://www.nfb.ca/film/arab-women-say-what/ 41:30 | MLA David Shepherd, Opposition Critic for Health, tells us what troubles him most about the government's plan for AHS. 1:00:50 | Jasper's Veterans Appreciation Event is underway, with events all the way through 'til November 12. We highlight the many different ways you can thank Canadian veterans in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. DETAILS & ITINERARY: https://www.jaspervetfest.com/ 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.

ome voters love the fact there's no political party influence at the municipal level in Alberta. Other voters can't stand it - they'd prefer a bit more predictability. Amid rumblings the Alberta government's considering changing the rules to allow party influence at city halls, we investigate the pros and cons. 3:20 | Pollster Janet Brown and Alberta Municipalities president Tyler Gandam dig into the results of a new survey asking Albertans how they feel about political parties at the municipal level of government. DETAILED RESULTS: https://www.abmunis.ca/system/files/2023-09/Political%20Parties%20in%20Alberta%20Municipal%20Elections%20-%20Sep%202023.pdf LEARN MORE ABOUT ALBERTA MUNICIPALITIES: https://www.abmunis.ca/ 52:45 | Ryan and Johnny commiserate over the hapless Edmonton Oilers. 56:12 | Real Talker "Garth," an immigrant from Jamaica, says he's hesitant to support EDI initiatives at work. Ryan reads his email, then he and Johnny share their own thoughts. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 1:09:40 | Real Talk is proud to support the Flags for Juno 80 initiative through the Juno Beach Centre Association. Ryan explains how you can receive a Canadian flag that flew over the museum in Normandy, complete with a certificate of authenticity. DONATE TO THE JUNO BEACH CENTRE: 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.

In what's believed to be the largest political convention in Alberta history, nearly 4,000 people gathered in Calgary for the United Conservative Party AGM. By the end of the weekend, the David Parker-led Take Back Alberta had taken control of the UCP board, and the party's most ardent supporters had passed several controversial resolutions. 3:05 | What does this all mean for Premier Danielle Smith and everyday Albertans? The Discourse co-hosts Erika Barootes and Cheryl Oates approach the story from very different angles. SUBSCRIBE TO THE DISCOURSE ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDiscoursePod SUBSCRIBE TO THE DISCOURSE ON APPLE PODCASTS: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-discourse/id1713385479?ign-itscg=30200&ign-itsct=podtail_podcasts 20:10 | Charles Adler explains why the UCP AGM was a "Social Conservative orgy," and how he expects federal Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre to respond. 48:40 | One week into fall session at the Alberta Legislature, what do the UCP government's priorities mean for small and medium-sized businesses? Alberta Chambers CEO Shauna Feth shines a spotlight on Alberta business. LEARN MORE ABOUT ACC: https://www.abchamber.ca/ 1:05:06 | What a survival story! We love this submission from Real Talker "Delaney," featured in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kubyenergy.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.

Our inbox was SLAMMED after our interview with Premier Danielle Smith. Real Talkers bring the heat in this #ABLEG-inspired edition of The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! FIRE UP YOUR FLAMETHROWER: [email protected]

How do great achievers get where they are? What drives them? What barriers did they bust down? Where do they see themselves going from here? We pick the brains of three of Edify Edmonton's Top 40 Under 40 in this episode of Real Talk. 2:00 | Top 40s Sheliza Kluge, Sonny Sekhon, and Heather Thomson talk career/life balance, Gen Z in the workplace, post-pandemic economics, philanthropy, and more. CHECK OUT THE FULL TOP 40 UNDER 40 LIST: https://edifyedmonton.com/ GET TICKETS FOR NOV. 28 @ THE WINSPEAR: https://tickets.edifyedmonton.com/top-40-under-40-2023/ 54:10 | Whatever happened to "earning your stripes"? Ryan and Johnny talk about evolving expectations in the workplace. 1:03:30 | Our inbox was SLAMMED after our interview with Premier Danielle Smith. Real Talkers bring the heat in this #ABLEG-inspired 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 been said water is the new oil. If that's the case, why is the province (and most of its citizens) ignoring major threats to such a valuable natural resource? 2:50 | Geophysicist Jenny Yeremiy explains why some Alberta communities are projected to run out of water as early as January 2024, and what can be done about it. The oil and gas reclamation expert brings us up to speed on coal exploration in the Eastern Slopes, a controversial logging project, and explains why she's confident Alberta can get to a Net Zero electricity grid by 2035. 32:30 | Allegra Pacheco joins live from Bethlehem with a first-hand account of the humanitarian disaster that is the Israel-Hamas war. The longtime human rights attorney tells us about her work representing Palestinians in front of the Israeli Supreme and military courts, her work with the United Nations, and what she thinks the international community needs to do right now. 58:10 | Ryan and John reflect on our November 1 interview with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, including your comments on the Alberta Pension Plan and the possibility of fast tracking grade ten students into the trades. 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.

Cost of living is up - way up - for the average Albertan. What're Premier Danielle Smith's plans to make things like electricity and auto insurance more affordable? How's she planning on responding to Ottawa's carbon tax break for Atlantic Canadians? How far is she willing to stick out her neck on an Alberta Pension Plan? And will Edmonton be seeing $300M after Calgary got a bunch of cash for its new arena? 2:00 | Premier Smith joins Ryan in studio for an exclusive half-hour interview, including details on why she was barred from attending the NHL Heritage Classic at Commonwealth Stadium. 38:00 | Ryan reads your responses to the Premier Smith sit-down, including a few questions submitted by Real Talkers that didn't make it into the interview. EMAIL US: [email protected] 54:50 | November's a perfect time to visit Jasper National Park! This week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper outlines the top five reasons to head out to the mountains this month. BOOK YOUR JASPER GETAWAY: https://www.jasper.travel/ CHECK OUT JASPER'S VETERANS APPRECIATION EVENT: https://www.jaspervetfest.com/ 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 going to be hearing a whole lot more from Alberta. The province and the feds aren't even close on the details around getting Alberta's electricity grid to Net Zero, including a 15 year discrepancy on the timeline. And that's not all. The October 30th Throne Speech gives us a reasonably good idea of how the Smith government plans to get Alberta well positioned to manage a forecasted population of 10 million people (double current numbers) by 2050. 3:10 | Ryan runs through the Speech from the Throne, and hones in on what most jumped out at him. 25:06 | Yaniv Yaakov's family's been missing since October 7, when his brother, his brother's girlfriend, and his two nephews were kidnapped from the Nir Oz kibbutz. He tells us how he's coping, and what he wants the world to know. 41:50 | What can Israel (and everybody else) learn from the American invasion of Iraq? How do those lessons apply to the fight against Hamas? "Bug-Eyed and Shameless" journalist Justin Ling takes us into his feature piece "You Can't Bomb Your Way To Safety." SUBSCRIBE TO BUG-EYED AND SHAMELESS: https://www.bugeyedandshameless.com/p/israel-ground-war-gaza-hamas EMAIL US: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen FAIRMONT JPL FIRST RESPONDERS APPRECIATION RATE: https://www.jasper-park-lodge.com/off... 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.

Fall session at the Alberta Legislature kicks off today with the Speech from the Throne: what can we expect from Premier Danielle Smith's UCP government, and Rachel Notley's Official Opposition NDP? Does this Alberta Pension Plan idea actually have legs, or is it doomed to fail (and hurt the government along the way)? 2:00 | Longtime senior staffers Cheryl Oates and Erika Barootes are teaming up on a new political podcast called The Discourse. They tell us what sets their show apart, and what they're keeping an eye on this legislative session. SUBSCRIBE TO THE DISCOURSE ON YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/LmjTJNdoAio?si=jUw5R5BidLBWsaul SUBSCRIBE TO THE DISCOURSE ON SPOTIFY: https://open.spotify.com/show/4aqzcOu4xsWlFUeytCpULw Note: The Discourse will be available on Apple Podcasts later this week. 32:00 | Charles Adler talks Nickelback, the Heritage Classic, Matthew Perry, the Alberta Pension Plan, and the Israel-Hamas war in his weekly appearance on the show. 59:10 | We're one day away from Halloween! This week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy features some of Ryan's favourite family costumes through the years, and a Dad who's set the highest Halloween bar we've ever seen! GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kubyenergy.ca/ EMAIL US: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen FAIRMONT JPL FIRST RESPONDERS APPRECIATION RATE: https://www.jasper-park-lodge.com/off... 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.

Danica's got a beef with the Edmonton Oilers, Lindsey's hot under the collar over Halloween, and Dan's sick of social justice initiatives on ice. We bust out The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! EMAIL US: [email protected]

Plans for an Alberta Pension Plan will dominate much of the focus as Alberta's MLAs return to the Legislature for fall session next week. If an APP truly is as unpopular as it appears to be, how much longer will Premier Danielle Smith ride that horse? 4:35 | Corey Hogan, Zain Velji, and Annalise Klingbeil talk Alberta Pension Plan, the federal Liberals' carbon tax adjustment for Atlantic Canada, ousted Ontario MPP Sarah Jama, and the Alberta NDP's next leader. LISTEN TO THE STRATEGISTS: https://thestrategists.ca/ 1:08:40 | Danica's got a beef with the Edmonton Oilers, Lindsey's hot under the collar over Halloween, and Dan's sick of social justice initiatives on ice. We bust out The Flamethrower presented by the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! EMAIL US: [email protected] GET TICKETS TO BARNEY BENTALL ON OCTOBER 28 @ FESTIVAL PLACE: https://casamentalhealth.org/events/b... BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen FAIRMONT JPL FIRST RESPONDERS APPRECIATION RATE: https://www.jasper-park-lodge.com/off... 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.

Hall of Fame goaltender Ken Dryden never thought he'd play in the NHL. It wasn't until the six-time Stanley Cup champion won his first exhibition game that he started to believe he might belong in The Show. Singer/songwriter Barney Bentall's raised more than $5M for charity, touring across Canada with his band The Caribou Express. What inspired these two men to reach their true potential? How have they overcome adversity in their personal and professional lives? What's the most important message they'd share with their fellow Canadians? Find out in this episode of Real Talk. 2:30 | Ken Dryden talks about his hockey and political career, and why he reconnected with more than 30 classmates 60 years later for his new book "The Class". CHECK OUT KEN'S BOOK: https://reviewcanada.ca/magazine/2023/11/ken-and-company/ 38:50 | Barney Bentall chats about the connection between music and mental health ahead of his October 28 show in Sherwood Park in support of CASA. GET TICKETS TO BARNEY BENTALL ON OCTOBER 28 @ FESTIVAL PLACE: https://casamentalhealth.org/events/barney-bentall-concert/ EMAIL US: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen FAIRMONT JPL FIRST RESPONDERS APPRECIATION RATE: https://www.jasper-park-lodge.com/off... 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 times of turmoil, Fred Rogers' mom used to tell him to "look for the helpers". The legendary children's entertainer shared the story many times through his television career, most especially when the cruelty of real life felt like too much for his young (and older) audience to bear. 3:30 | Mark Cherrington is one of those helpers. The Edmonton man has dedicated his life to helping marginalized people. From babies without diapers to kids without winter boots, from teens being sexually exploited to seniors who'd otherwise starve, Mark's on call 24 hours a day whenever a serious need arises. Mark joins Ryan in studio to share real life stories from the street, explain how he got started, why he operates independently, and why he's often seen as an enemy of the establishment. SUPPORT MARK'S WORK: https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/john-humphrey-centre-for-peace-and-human-rights/ FOLLOW MARK: https://twitter.com/MarkCherrington SUPPORT HARVEST HILLS CARES CALGARY: https://harvesthillscares.ca/ 1:24:30 | The Jasper Dark Sky Festival is wrapping up in style this weekend, with the first-ever Jasper Dark Sky Festival Space Ball! Get details on this hilarious, super fun, interactive, adult-only event in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. SPACE BALL DETAILS: https://www.jasperdarksky.travel/event/jasper-dark-sky-space-ball EMAIL US: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen GET TICKETS TO BARNEY BENTALL ON OCTOBER 28 @ FESTIVAL PLACE: https://casamentalhealth.org/events/barney-bentall-concert/ FAIRMONT JPL FIRST RESPONDERS APPRECIATION RATE: https://www.jasper-park-lodge.com/off... WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/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.

If Canadians were voting today, polling shows Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives would form a massive majority government, while Justin Trudeau's Liberals would see their seats cut in half. What's behind such a surge for the CPC? Is the solution to the Liberal Party's woes as simple as a leadership change? And how does Jagmeet Singh's NDP factor into all of this? 2:35 | Professional poll analyst Philippe Fournier says the Conservatives would win 205 seats (up from 117) if an election was held right now, while the Liberals would plummet from 158 to just 81. The editor-in-chief at 338Canada explains what's driving momentum in both directions, and what might turn the tide over the next couple of years. CHECK OUT 338CANADA: https://338canada.com/ 38:35 | We've received more feedback from our October 19 interview with Ghada Sasa than any other segment in recent memory. Ryan reads emails from Real Talkers Crystal, Marco, Cyrus, Cheryl, Mariah, Jason, Rene, and Jared. EMAIL US: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen GET TICKETS TO BARNEY BENTALL ON OCTOBER 28 @ FESTIVAL PLACE: FAIRMONT JPL FIRST RESPONDERS APPRECIATION RATE: https://www.jasper-park-lodge.com/off... WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/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.

Chen Zeigen and his family are holding out hope his mother, Vivian Silver, is still alive. The longtime peace activist is believed to be among those taken hostage from a kibbutz near the Gaza Strip on October 7. In this episode of Real Talk, Chen tells us about Vivian's lifelong commitment to campaigning for peace in the region, and what he thinks she'd say about what's happening right now. 2:25 | But first...Charles Adler talks to us about a rise in antisemitic sentiments on North America, Pierre Poilievre's "apple munching" interview, and both Poilievre and Justin Trudeau warning Alberta about leaving the Canada Pension Plan. 30:22 | Chen Zeigen joins us from Tel Aviv, where he and his family are doing everything they can to secure the safe release of his mother Vivian Silver, believed to be among Israeli hostages being held somewhere in Gaza. 49:20 | Pride tape was spotted on an NHL player's stick over the weekend. Will Commissioner Gary Bettman do anything about it? Ryan and Johnny discuss. 52:30 | Thanks to Real Talker Landi for sharing this week's Positive Reflection presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. We love the story of a mom's 30 year mission to help her son achieve his goal of becoming a pilot! GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ SEND US YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/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 have a lot to say about Ryan's October 19 interview with Ghada Sasa from Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East. Adam, Clay, Garth, Pam, Cam, and Catalina fire up The Flamethrower presented by our friends at the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! SEND US YOUR BEEF: [email protected]

You wouldn't think bike lanes would be so divisive. Urban planners and cycling advocates make compelling arguments why every community should prioritize pedal-powered transportation. But still, we see outcry every time a Canadian city (like Edmonton or Calgary) invests in that type of infrastructure. What's missing from public debate? Is it possible to get everybody on the same page? 2:30 | No matter how you feel about bikes, bike lanes, public transit, or city planning, we guarantee you'll learn something from our Real Talk Round Table: Dutch Cycling Embassy's Chris Bruntlett, MADE's Danielle Soneff, and Paths for People's Stephen Raitz. CHECK OUT DCE: https://dutchcycling.nl/ CHECK OUT MADE: https://joinmade.org/ CHECK OUT PATHS FOR PEOPLE: https://pathsforpeople.org/ 1:00:56 | Real Talkers have a lot to say about Ryan's October 19 interview with Ghada Sasa from Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East. Adam, Clay, Garth, Pam, Cam, and Catalina fire up The Flamethrower presented by our friends at the DQs of Northwest Edmonton and Sherwood Park! SEND US YOUR BEEF: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen FAIRMONT JPL FIRST RESPONDERS RATE: https://www.jasper-park-lodge.com/offers/first-responders-appreciation-rate/ WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/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.

You've seen the signs at protests around the world: "Decolonize Palestine". What does that actually mean? What are the implications? What is the right way to pursue peace in the region? When can violence be justified, if ever, and what role should the international community play in the Israel-Hamas war? 1:52 | Ghada Sasa is completing her PhD in Political Science at McMaster University, and sits on the board at Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East. The third-generation Palestinian refugee talks to us about decolonization, genocide, and what she thinks Canadians should be doing about the Israel-Hamas war. CHECK OUT CJPME: https://www.cjpme.org/ 35:00 | Ryan debriefs with the audience after Ghada's interview. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 55:26 | Law professor Martin Olszynski made waves calling for a public review of the Alberta Energy Regulator in his October 18 Real Talk interview. We take a look at what you have to say about it. BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/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.

“If you believe in fairness, common sense and the sanctity of the Canadian Constitution, today is a great day,” said Alberta Premier Danielle Smith, after the Supreme Court ruled 5-2 that the federal government's Impact Assessment Act was unconstitutional and intrusive. That's the angle you'd expect from a politician who's long argued the Feds overstep their boundaries into provincial jurisdictions. But what does the ruling actually mean for new pipelines, natural gas plants, and other energy infrastructure in Canada? 2:15 | But first...as the IDF and Hamas blame each other for a deadly explosion at a hospital in Gaza, Real Talker Brendan pleads for humanity in the region. Ryan opens the show with Brendan's email to [email protected]. 8:30 | Law professor Martin Olszynski represented World Wildlife Fund Canada as an intervenor in front of the Supreme Court. He dumbs down the decision so we can understand what it means moving forward. Do provinces get a free pass to approve whatever they like? Martin says not exactly... READ MARTIN'S BLOG: https://ablawg.ca/2023/10/16/wait-what-what-the-supreme-court-actually-said-in-the-iaa-reference/ 41:00 | How will innovation and technology shape where we'll live, how we'll look, and who we'll be? Longtime science broadcaster and author Jay Ingram blows our minds ahead of his presentation on October 21 at the Jasper Dark Sky Festival. This interview is presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. CHECK OUT THE JASPER DARK SKY FESTIVAL: https://www.jasperdarksky.travel/ ORDER JAY'S BOOK: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Future-of-Us/Jay-Ingram/9781668003350 1:17:50 | Turns out the Holy Spirit told a Red Deer School Trustee to "go for it" and post a meme comparing Hitler Youth to students at Pride celebrations. At least, that's what Monica LaGrange claims. Ryan tells us what's new about this ridiculous story out of Central Alberta. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/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.

For nearly a decade, Calgarians have seen arena talks gain momentum, then fall apart. Then, just a short time ago, a deal. Approved by council in a unanimous vote with no public debate, the city will front more than $830M - more than three times what it agreed to in 2019 - while the Flames will kick in $40M. 2:40 | So, what changed? What prompted the about face from formerly-critical councillors like Courtney Walcott and Jasmine Mian? What does the agreement do to Calgary's bottom line? Jeremy Klaszus, founder and Editor-in-Chief of The Sprawl, takes us into the real costs of Calgary's new arena deal. SUPPORT THE SPRAWL: https://www.sprawlcalgary.com/ 55:45 | Ryan and Johnny take a look at the top story in Alberta politics over the past 24 hours: the disappearance of MLA Janis Irwin's cat Oregano. Ryan asks an important question being ignored by the mainstream media. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/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 death toll of Israelis and Palestinians - many of them innocent civilians - killed over the past ten days is staggering, and you get the sense this war is only just beginning. As everyday Canadians publicly declare their support for Palestine *or* Israel, it's easy to feel like society is painfully divided. Who really wants to pick a side when it comes to children and the elderly being killed by missile strikes? 5:00 | Charles Adler tells us what prompted his newspaper column "Never Again. Again" over the weekend. Plus, we look at the Supreme Court's decision against the federal government's Impact Assessment Act (remember the "No More Pipelines" bill?), Premier Scott Moe invoking the notwithstanding clause in Saskatchewan, Heather Stefanson's apology to Manitobans, and Jagmeet Singh's dwindling popularity among NDP members. 59:45 | We love the story of 72-year-old Sam Kaplan keeping his promise to his 99-year-old Mom. It's this week's Positive Reflection presented by 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/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/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.

Russ calls Ryan's interview with Alberta's finance minister "tepid tea" (buuuurn) in this week's edition of Trash Talk. Plus, Jon and Marie tell us how they're responding to the NHL's ban on Pride Tape. SEND US YOUR RANT: [email protected]

Alberta's boom isn't limited to oil and gas. Its craft brewing scene is Canada's best. So, what's the secret? On this Real Talk Round Table, we crack a few cold ones with three of the province's most passionate beer evangelists. 2:12 | Polyrhythm Brewing's Chelsea Tessier, Bent Stick Brewing's Cole Boyd, and the Alberta Craft Beer Guide's Andrew Ironmonger bring their favourite brews to the Real Talk studio, and tell us what makes Alberta's beer scene so special. 1:00:02 | Russ calls Ryan's interview with Alberta's finance minister "tepid tea" (buuuurn) in this week's edition of Trash Talk. Plus, Jon and Marie tell us how they're responding to the NHL's ban on Pride Tape. SEND US YOUR RANT: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/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.

Is Alberta really entitled to more than half the funds in the Canada Pension Plan? How serious is the government about trying to withdraw those funds and establish a provincial plan? What are the chances the whole thing could backfire? 0:20 | Alberta's Minister of Finance Nate Horner makes the case for an Alberta Pension Plan. TAKE THE SURVEY: https://www.albertapensionplan.ca/ 32:00 | Two former Quebec junior hockey players pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting a minor in June 2021 as their team celebrated a championship win. We take a look at Nicolas Daigle and Massimo Siciliano's guilty plea, and the bigger implications on the sport. 56:20 | You have a lot to say about the NHL banning Pride Tape. Ryan reads some of the responses to his tweet about the decision. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/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 violent attack by someone out on bail. Cops accused of excessive force. Homeless encampments cleared by police. Missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls. Serious charges stayed for unreasonable delay. Deaths of imprisoned people from overdose or suicide. The headlines tell the story of a broken criminal justice system. In this episode of Real Talk, we find out if and how it can be fixed. 3:15 | But first...in one of the more cowardly and regressive moves in recent pro sports history, the NHL has banned Pride Tape from warmups. Ryan and Johnny take a look at what the biggest stars in the game are saying, and wonder who'll be first to take a fine to show some love to LGBTQ hockey fans. 17:35 | Benjamin Perrin's putting Canada's criminal justice system on trial. The UBC Law professor and former justice advisor to Prime Minister Stephen Harper explains why our system is such a mess, and plots a course forward. CHECK OUT BEN'S BOOK "INDICTMENT": https://benjaminperrin.ca/ 52:00 | The Jasper Dark Sky Festival is almost upon us! We take a look at some of the coolest options and activities for families...most of them free! LEARN MORE: https://www.jasperdarksky.travel/ 57:17 | Real Talkers have a lot to say about the Israel-Hamas War, and our early coverage of it. Ryan reads some of the best emails sent to [email protected]. BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/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 world watched in horror as Hamas fighters inflicted the deadliest attack in Israel's history over the weekend. An unimaginable assault on innocent civilians, including babies and the elderly, leading Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to declare that his country was “at a war”. 1:30 | Ryan opens the show with a few observations about what's happening in Israel in Gaza as well as here in Canada and elsewhere around the world. 4:10 | Kinneret Ozeri spent the weekend in and out of bomb shelters with her husband and their three daughters. She joins us live from their home in Harish, Israel, to try to explain the toll the terror attack has taken on their family and friends. 24:15 | We revisit our May 11 interview with Mousa Qasqas, a Palestinian-Canadian activist from Edmonton. FULL INTERVIEW WITH MOUSA: https://www.youtube.com/live/h_uEsAc2SYg?si=YMuSzDi2YLAE5cRy&t=450 26:12 | We ask Charles Adler what he thinks about pro-Palestine rallies held in Canada as terror attacks were still being carried out in Israel. Ryan and Charles also touch on Premier-elect Wab Kinew's historic victory in Manitoba last week. 1:00:00 | Helen Naslund is serving an 18-year sentence for killing her husband, after enduring horrific abuse for more than 30 years. Her story is the subject of a new podcast, In Her Defence, hosted by The Globe & Mail's Jana Pruden, who joins Ryan in studio. CHECK OUT THE PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/in-her-defence/id1707875517?i=1000628278975 LEARN MORE ABOUT AB COUNCIL OF WOMEN'S SHELTERS: https://acws.ca/ 1:28:15 | Have you ever thought about your legacy one hundred years from now? This week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy is dedicated to all of us who might benefit from stepping away from the rat race from time to time. GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kubyenergy.ca/ BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/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 sound off on Nazis in the House of Commons, political posturing, an Alberta Pension Plan, coal mining in the Rockies, and leaf blowers (!) in this week's edition of Trash Talk! SUBMIT YOUR RANT: [email protected]

Canada's got an affordable housing crisis. Nobody can argue that. But is cracking down on short-term rentals like Airbnbs the right solution? The federal government is considering it as part of a bigger-picture plan. What ripple effects should homeowners and real estate investors expect? 11:15 | Ryan's not sure it's the right move. We take a look at what Real Talkers are saying in the YouTube live chat. 36:00 | Half of 13,000 post-secondary students polled say they've experienced sexual or gender-based violence on campus. Student leaders are demanding action. Our Real Talk Round Table features Rachele Preston from the University of Lethbridge, Prabhjit Grewal from Mount Royal University, and Chris Beasley from the University of Alberta. LEARN MORE: https://www.caus.net/news/2023/8/30/students-demand-action-on-sexual-violence-prevention 1:07:20 | Ryan revisits his mental health quiz from our October 5 episode, which revealed the potential for a "major depressive episode". COUNSELLING ALBERTA: https://www.counsellingalberta.com/ 1:18:05 | Real Talkers sound off on Nazis in the House of Commons, political posturing, an Alberta Pension Plan, coal mining in the Rockies, and leaf blowers (!) in this week's edition of Trash Talk! SUBMIT YOUR RANT: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/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 talk mental health and addiction today...DON'T SCROLL PAST! We get it...it's uncomfortable subject matter. But we guarantee you'll learn something (and maybe even save yourself) by checking out this extended-length episode of Real Talk. 3:25 | But first...Ryan opens the show with a few thoughts about Wab Kinew and the NDP's big victory in Manitoba. How does it change the political dynamic across the Prairies, and how do the PCs begin their brand rehabilitation? 11:10 | It's National Depression Screening Day. Sarah Rosenfeld from the Calgary Counselling Centre explains why screening is so important, even if you feel like everything's fine. Ryan takes a quick quiz live on the show, and is surprised by the result. TAKE THE QUIZ: https://areyoufeelingok.com/ 37:20 | Why are we okay with funding schools and kids sports on the backs of gambling addicts? Recovering gambler Andree Busenius and Alberta Views Editor Evan Osenton dig into Alberta's ugly addiction. SUBSCRIBE TO ALBERTA VIEWS for 50% off with the promo code AVRJ: https://albertaviews.ca/ 1:47:23 | The Jasper Dark Sky Festival is fast approaching! We shine a light on a few of the highlights through the first weekend of this amazing annual event in #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. BOOK YOUR JASPER GETAWAY: https://www.jasperdarksky.travel/ EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/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.