Real Talk Ryan Jespersen

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.

Do you have a strong opinion on the proposed Alberta Pension Plan? It's leading national news headlines, as the Alberta government is asking citizens to chime in on the idea. In this episode of Real Talk, we get a couple different perspectives so you can make an informed decision. 3:40 | Canadians have come to trust Dr. Trevor Tombe's informed, non-partisan takes on economic matters. The University of Calgary economist explains why the UCP's Alberta Pension Plan idea is "full of holes". READ TREVOR'S COLUMN: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-albertas-pension-plan-idea-is-full-of-holes/ DIG EVEN DEEPER: https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=4576950 46:00 | NDP MLA Shannon Phillips tells us why she thinks the APP is "a monumentally stupid idea". The Official Opposition Finance Critic also tells us how she thinks the government should respond to skyrocketing electricity costs and a devastating death toll due to drug poisonings. 1:12:00 | Do you have your Halloween costume picked out? Johnny takes us through some of the top themes for 2023. 1:16:23 | Real Talker Tina D. has lots to say about our conversation with Charles Adler about the former Nazi SS soldier applauded in the House of Commons. Tina takes us back to the early 1930s in famine-ravaged Ukraine, and really gets us thinking. 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.

Our elected MPs gave a former Nazi SS soldier a standing ovation in the House of Commons. Alberta wants to pull out of the Canada Pension Plan. Manitoba's PC Party is making some mind-boggling moves just days before an election. We've got a lot to talk about in this episode of Real Talk! 2:55 | Who should be most embarrassed by 300 or so federal MPs standing to applaud a former Nazi SS soldier? What prompted the Manitoba PCs to run bone-headed billboards days away from an election? Charles Adler gives us his Canadian Common Sense. 33:50 | What do Alberta businesses need to not just survive, but thrive? What can we read into the latest GDP and population growth numbers? What will entrepreneurs and Chambers be watching this fall legislative session? Alberta Chambers of Commerce President and CEO Shauna Feth joins Ryan in studio to shine the spotlight on Alberta business. CHECK OUT AB CHAMBERS ONLINE: https://www.abchamber.ca/ 1:02:52 | The entire country's watching Alberta's move toward a provincial pension plan. Ryan shares a few thoughts at this early point in the campaign. 1:08:50 | We're all so sorry to hear of Chris Snow's passing. Ryan and Johnny reflect on our conversation with Chris' wife Kelsie, host of the "Sorry, I'm Sad" podcast. WATCH OUR INTERVIEW WITH KELSIE SNOW: https://www.youtube.com/live/vsemtZW-H4U?si=idBoIpyJF0pDEKpe&t=2392 SUPPORT THE SNOW FAMILY: https://www.gofundme.com/f/234ds-help-the-snow-family 1:19:40 | A 13 year old in White Rock, BC just struck a big deal with Sony. We celebrate his amazing achievement 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/ 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.

Everybody's talking about the "1 Million March 4 Children" that went down earlier this week, so it's no surprise you've got a LOT to get off your chest. In response to our inbox being absolutely slammed, it's an extended edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! EMAIL US: [email protected]

People don't feel safe these days. Whether it's riding inner-city transit or living in a remote, rural location, Canadians are experiencing escalating rates of violent crime. What's the solution? Bail reform? Tougher sentences? More robust support services? 3:30 | The presidents of the Alberta Crown Attorneys' Office (Dallas Sopko) and the Criminal Trial Lawyers Association (Paul Moreau) join us for a Real Talk Round Table on crime and punishment. 1:05:30 | Our dear friend Supriya Dwivedi is back with a straight-shooting take on tensions between Canada and India, including an indictment of Canadian media coverage over the years. Careful you don't spit out your coffee when you hear her talk about "hate boners" (immediately an all-time Real Talk quote)! 1:27:45 | Everybody's talking about the "1 Million March 4 Children" that went down earlier this week, so it's no surprise you've got a LOT to get off your chest. In response to our inbox being absolutely slammed, it's an extended edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.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.

Thousands of Canadians participated in the 1 Million March 4 Children, organized to "free children from the bondage of indoctrination; breaking a system designed to sexualize our children". Thousands more showed up in counter-protest. At the end of it all, were you left with a pit in your stomach? 2:04 | Ryan reflects on the 1 Million March 4 Children, one day later. 24:40 | How do we fix our communities? In Alberta, both municipal and provincial governments face a housing crisis, increased rates of violent crime, crumbling infrastructure, and many other challenges. Our Alberta Municipalities Round Table features St. Albert Mayor Cathy Heron, Wetaskiwin Mayor Tyler Gandam, and Legal Mayor Trina Jones. CHECK OUT ALBERTA MUNICIPALITIES: https://www.abmunis.ca/ 1:25:08 | Ryan reads an email from Real Talker Kyle, who takes issue with a few of Max Fawcett's points from our September 20 episode. 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 eyes of the energy world are on Calgary, as Alberta hosts the World Petroleum Congress. It makes perfect sense for Premier Danielle Smith to greet the Saudi delegation at the airport...but does the photo op kill Canada's claim around "ethical oil"? 4:20 | Max Fawcett takes that question (and more)...but first, the lead columnist for Canada's National Observer shares his thoughts on the "1 Million March 4 Children" happening across Canada. READ MAX'S COLUMN ON THE WPC: https://www.nationalobserver.com/2023/09/20/opinion/so-much-ethical-oil 35:47 | With more than 300 children sick from the E. coli outbreak at multiple Calgary daycares, it's fair to expect a public inquiry. MLA Diana Batten, a former RN and current Opposition Critic for Childcare, Child & Family Services, gets into it. 54:05 | If you've never checked out the Jasper Dark Sky Festival, it's an absolute must! Ryan runs through the lineup for the 2023 edition, running from October 13-29 in Jasper National Park. MORE DETAILS: https://www.jasperdarksky.travel/ 58:14 | The Real Talk community is broad and diverse, so it's no surprise when a story in the news directly impacts an audience member. Ryan reads an email from "Christine," whose daughter was hospitalized in Calgary with E. coli, and Jeff, who remembers the Walkerton E. coli outbreak in 2000. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 1:07:00 | There's been a huge response to our September 19 interview with Harman Kandola about the murder of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Our TikTok alone had more than 100,000 views in less than a day. Ryan reads an email from Kristie, who no doubt speaks for a whole bunch of people. 1:10:30 | Feeling guilty about bringing children into an uncertain world? Don't! That's the message from Real Talker Amanda, who sent us a note after our September 19 interview with For Our Kids Alberta co-founders Heidi Bergstrom and Claire Kraatz. 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.

It's official: Canada says India's responsible for the cold-blooded killing of Canadian Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, BC on June 18, 2023. Shortly after the Prime Minister made the bold statement in the House of Commons this week, Canada expelled a senior Indian diplomat. India followed suit, sending a Canadian diplomat home. Federal politicians across party lines are calling for accountability, but what does that look like? We discuss in this enlightening episode of Real Talk 5:53 | But first...Heidi Bergstrom and Claire Kraatz have been experiencing "climate anxiety" for several years. They've joined a new group - For Our Kids - to connect with other Canadians in the same boat, and find ways to take action to save the planet. CHECK OUT FOR OUR KIDS: https://www.forourkids.ca/ 27:30 | Prime Minister Justin Trudeau made international news this week, when he pointed the finger at India for the murder of a Canadian Sikh leader in Surrey, BC on June 18, 2023. World Sikh Organization VP Harman Singh Kandola says Indian surveillance of Sikh activists in Canada has been happening for years. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE WSO: https://www.worldsikh.org/?gclid=CjwKCAjwjaWoBhAmEiwAXz8DBfubsckCW0ZXct6g5nbv4eB1BTYJaFbczpNO7j1VO3BZdpHLx1TzehoC4EkQAvD_BwE 1:16:20 | Ryan digs into the Real Talk mailbag. Kyle and Cameron have something to say about our interview with gender-affirming health care provider Dr. Kate Greenaway (Sept. 13), and Lisa says our education-themed Real Talk Round Table (Sept. 6) didn't go far enough. 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.

From Donald Trump's gaffe in an interview over the weekend to Congresswoman Lauren Boebert's caught-on-camera debacle at a Denver theatre...from the horrific E. coli outbreak at Alberta daycares to NHL coach Mike Babcock leaving Columbus before coaching a single game...get the informed, common sense insights you need to make sense of what's going on around you in this episode of Real Talk! 4:00 | The Hon. Marc Garneau was the first Canadian in Space, and later in his career, was widely regarded as one of the most respected Members of Parliament. We talk to the former president of the Canadian Space Agency about the Liberals plummeting polling, Canada's affordability crisis, the past, present, and future of Canadians in Space, and his upcoming appearances at the Jasper Dark Sky Festival. SEE MARC GARNEAU IN JASPER: https://www.jasperdarksky.travel/ 30:02 | Alberta's Chief Medical Officer of Health says he didn't initially see the "urgency" in 300+ kids getting E. coli eating food from a filthy kitchen. Donald Trump says it was himself - not his lawyers - who believed the last election was stolen. Mike Babcock's gone from the Columbus Blue Jackets before training camp even begins. Charles Adler brings his Canadian Common Sense to this week's appearance on Real Talk. 1:20:57 | What's the most amazing anniversary gift you've ever given or received? A Kansas farmer goes (WAY) above and beyond in this week's Positive Reflections presented 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/ 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

Ronnie's sick of the politics of affordable housing. Michelle says trans rights aren't up for debate. And Morgan wonders what ever happened to real conversations about real issues with real people. It's Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/

Canada's experiencing a full-blown housing crisis. Millions of people literally can't afford a place to live, and experts say we need to add more than three million units by 2030. How did we get here, and how do we begin to fix it? We focus on what pollsters say is the number one issue impacting Canadians in this episode of Real Talk. 4:40 | Marie-Josée Houle is Canada's first Federal Housing Advocate. Jennifer Keesmaat is Toronto's former chief planner and the founder of Markee Developments. Jeromy Farkas is a former Calgary councillor and a tireless advocate for affordable housing. The formidable trio forms this week's Real Talk Round Table as we explore root causes and potential solutions to Canada's housing crisis. 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.

Imagine what hundreds of parents in Calgary are going through right now. Their kids are terribly sick with a rare form of E. coli because the daycare they trusted served food from a cockroach-infested kitchen. At least twenty of those kids are in hospital, seven of them on dialysis. Meantime, the daycares are cleared to re-open: who'd want to send their kids back...but what options to many of those families have? 5:55 | ER Dr. Shazma Mithani explains what's so unique about this type of E. coli, and helps us understand the severe complication known as hemolytic uremic syndrome, a disease that affects kidney function. Also, what do you need to know about back-to-school flu season, and up-to-the-minute details on vaccines? Dr. Mithani has us covered. 34:50 | Good luck if you're looking for affordable housing in Vancouver. Mo Amir explains why so many people are left high and dry in the Lower Mainland. The host of This is VANCOLOUR dissects recent federal political polling, and tells us how he feels about Pierre Poilievre's infamous airplane address earlier in the week. CHECK OUT MO'S SHOW: https://www.thisisvancolour.com/ 1:24:40 | Why is the Toronto Zoo limiting screen time for a "teenaged" gorilla? Johnny presents a hilarious (but thought provoking) story from The Big Smoke. 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.

What do you know about trans and non-binary health care? It seems like politicians are talking about it more than physicians themselves, and it's safe to say it's become one of the more polarizing topics in Canada in recent years (including at the Conservative Party Convention over the weekend). We talk to a physician and a CPC delegate in this enlightening episode of Real Talk. 3:50 | Dr. Kate Greenaway's been working with trans and non-binary patients for more than twenty years. She explains what "gender-affirming care" entails, and why she thinks politicians and the general public have too much say in a personal matter. CHECK OUT THE FORIA CLINIC: https://www.foriaclinic.com/ 35:35 | Jennifer Laewetz was in Quebec City for the CPC Convention over the weekend. She talks to us about the "culture war" influence on policy resolutions, her own priorities as an Indigenous person around duty to consult, and the buzz around Pierre Poilievre's public address on a WestJet flight (she was on the plane). 56:15 | The Jasper Dark Sky Festival has officially added a third weekend! We take a look at the out-of-this-world experiences available in Jasper from October 12-29 in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. LEARN MORE: https://www.jasperdarksky.travel/ 58:50 | Speaking of space, have you seen the 1,000 year old "alien corpses" displayed in Mexico's Congress? We can't help but take a look. 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.

Pierre Poilievre's Conservatives are riding high. The party's out-polling Justin Trudeau's Liberals by a wide margin, and that was *before* this weekend's packed CPC Convention in Quebec City. Of course, there's still an eternity before the next federal election. But is the writing on the wall? 5:20 | Before we talk politics with David Herle, Ryan reads an email from Real Talker Garth about "the undeniable accusation that the media narrative is unmistakably pro-liberal, pro-Trudeau, and pro-left." EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 14:35 | What was the most important moment of the Conservative Convention this weekend? Should the Liberals be shaking in their boots? Veteran political strategist and podcaster David Herle dissects Poilievre's hour-long speech, explains why there won't be a Liberal leadership review anytime soon, and lays out a plan to address Canada's housing crisis. The host of The Herle Burly takes us into the politics of the path to Net Zero, and zeroes in on the key issues that'll determine the outcome of the Manitoba election. CHECK OUT THE HERLE BURLY: https://www.airquotesmedia.com/thb 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.

Did Canada's Conservatives put positive polling momentum at risk at this weekend's convention in Quebec City? We take a look at some of the grassroots initiatives (restricting gender-affirming surgery) vs. issues where Poilievre's gaining ground (affordable housing), and discuss where and how the CPC needs to stay focused if it wants to govern again. 5:00 | But first...no matter how many years it's been since 2001, September 11 will always stir memories and even emotions with most people. Charles Adler and Ryan look back twenty-two years, then ask, "Have we forgotten?" Then, Adler analyzes the CPC Convention through a common sense lens. 55:10 | Gerald thinks Angus Reid asked the wrong question in a poll about parent's rights. Our interview with Jackie Rae Greening about merit-based hiring rubbed Lauren the wrong way. Winch has a thought about our interview with Take Back Alberta's David Parker. And Curtis is wondering when we're going to feature a Real Talk Round Table about housing (the answer is this Friday!). Ryan reaches into the Real Talk mailbag. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 1:16:03 | We love this story out of the UK about the recovery of priceless family heirlooms in this week's Positive Reflections presented by our friends at Kuby Renewable Energy. 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.

Our "Bursting at the Seams" episode on September 6 has Kenneth, Dallas, and Stean all fired up. It's an all-education edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/

Losing a parent to cancer at a young age would have an enormous impact on anybody. It's hard to imagine how a young person could pick up the pieces, let alone move forward in pursuit of an education and a career. In this episode, you'll meet Manuela Lopez Aldana and Tyler Gauchier, the 2023 recipients of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. 2:00 | Manuela tells us about her family's move from Columbia to Canada, the impact of losing her Dad, and why she wants to assist immigrant and Indigenous populations with digital literacy. Tyler shares how his Dad passed on Indigenous guiding and tracking skills, and why he's pursuing a career in environmental and conservation sciences. APPLY FOR THE REAL TALK JULIE ROHR SCHOLARSHIP: https://ryanjespersen.com/scholarship CHECK OUR ART4GOOD "EMERALD WATERS" FUNDRAISER: https://art4good.ca/emerald-waters/ REGISTER FOR THE REAL TALK GOLF CLASSIC on JUNE 20, 2024: https://real-talk-golf-classic.square.site/ 49:20 | Our "Bursting at the Seams" episode on September 6 has Kenneth, Dallas, and Stean all fired up. It's an all-education edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.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.

The loudest voices don't always represent majority opinions. In this episode of Real Talk, we find out what Canadians actually think about a parent's right to be informed, the next Prime Minister of Canada, appropriate supports for wildfire evacuees, parole for convicted killers, and more. 6:15 | Our September 6 episode about class sizes in Alberta resonated with a bunch of you. Ryan shares a few messages from Real Talkers - some seeing classes more than FORTY students. 7:45 | Shachi Kurl understands Canadians more than most. As president at the Angus Reid Institute and a national media pundit, it's her job to figure out what we think of hot-button issues (and why). She breaks down poll results on New Brunswick and Saskatchewan requiring parental permission for student pronoun changes, Pierre Poilievre blowing past Justin Trudeau in popularity polling, and Joe Biden's future as POTUS. CHECK OUT ANGUS REID ONLINE: https://angusreid.org/ 45:50 | Fresh off a win at the National Native Media Awards, APTN journalist Dani Paradis takes us into the under-told story of the unhoused evacuees of the NWT. It's hard to believe, but one of the men convicted in the killings of two Metis hunters is already up for parole. Dani updates that story right before she heads back to court to cover it. READ DANI'S WORK: https://www.aptnnews.ca/national-news/nwt-evacuation-order-lifted-unhoused-evacuees/?fbclid=IwAR0CQ_mUNnQ-CZlM_lBGX5ktjdTt108YcbrTRMJRg1-p72X4UVY9N-lEI1E_aem_AWl9qL0K2Yncftd9MRQ_eGUNyl5Y6-cs1xMmfq_Pgz5CVSavKALu0xgiLuw6TOZ3YpY 1:20:45 | Have you watched Painkiller on Netflix or Dopesick on Apple TV? Ryan and Johnny compare the two, and share a few thoughts on the opioid crisis. 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.

Canada's richest province spends the least per student on education. Classrooms are packed, teachers are stretched, and kids aren't getting the supports they need. What's going on in Alberta? 2:30 | Karlee Hren has been teaching elementary school for more than a decade. Laurence Miall's a journalist whose eldest child just started kindergarten. They join Ryan in studio to talk about crowded classrooms, provincial education budgets, private school funding, pronoun policies, Pride flags in schools, uniforms, standardized testing, and more. If you care about the future of education (and our kids), you don't want to miss this conversation! READ LAURENCE'S PIECE IN ALBERTA VIEWS: https://albertaviews.ca/ KNOCK 50% OFF A ONE-YEAR SUBSCRIPTION TO ALBERTA VIEWS WITH THE PROMO CODE AVRJ: https://albertaviews.ca/subscribe/ 1:26:30 | The Jespersen family's recent trip to Jasper is front and centre in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. Ryan also shares some of the amazing opportunities to explore Jasper National Park through September and October. BOOK A GUIDED GLACIER TOUR: https://rockaboo.ca/ CHECK OUT THE JASPER DARK SKY FESTIVAL: https://www.jasperdarksky.travel/ 1:34:30 | Real Talker JK has a few thoughts on Ontario and Saskatchewan requiring schools to get parental permission for pronoun changes. 1:38:55 | Real Talker Kathy has a lot on her mind after listening to our "Canada in the Year 2060" episode with climate journalist Anne Shibata Casselman. 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.

Science says it's too late to avoid some of the inevitable impacts of climate change. Journalist Anne Shibata Casselman spent six months investigating what Canada's likely to look like in 2060. Her findings are shocking, to say the least. We get into her Macleans feature on this episode of Real Talk. But first... 5:18 | The trial of "Freedom Convoy" co-organizers Tamara Lich and Chris Barber begins today. Charles Adler tells us why every Canadian should care about the outcome. Plus, how bad is the Doug Ford/Greenbelt story? And what consequences (if any) should a Red Deer Catholic School trustee face for comparing Nazi and Pride flags? 32:00 | Summers lost to fire and smoke. Biblical floods. Dying forests. Retreating coasts. Economic turmoil and political unrest. It’s going to be a weird century. Journalist Anne Shibata Casselman takes us into her Macleans feature "Canada in the year 2060". READ THE PIECE: https://macleans.ca/society/environment/canada-in-the-year-2060/ 1:30:30 | It was a record-setting Tee Up for Tots golf tournament at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge this year. Ryan celebrates the $1.123 MILLION fundraiser for the Stollery Children's Hospital 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/ 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 decades, officials at the Calgary Stampede knew a predator was working with the famed Young Canadians, but covered it up. Strategist Stephen Carter pulls no punches in telling us what needs to happen next. Advocate Danielle Aubry explains how scandals like this can continue undetected for years. MP George Chahal tells us why he thinks the Stampede needs to pay a price for being complicit. Enjoy this episode of The Best of Real Talk! ryanjespersen.com #RealTalkRJ

Of all the ways to blow $44 billion... Social media experts Kathleen Smith, Karly Watson, and Beverley Theresa give us the goods on the future of Twitter and TikTok. Branding experts Josh Dunford and Ashley Harrigan explain the science of branding, and what makes for a brilliant (or bone-headed) rebrand. Enjoy this episode of The Best of Real Talk! ryanjespersen.com #RealTalkRJ

Alberta's Environment Minister Rebecca Schulz tells us about her closed door meeting with federal Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault. NDP Energy Critic tells us why she thinks Alberta's government is out to lunch pressing pause on renewables. Andrew Leach cuts through the political noise and breaks down the current and future economics of Canada's energy industry. Rural Municipalities of Alberta President tells us why he thinks the government is making the right move with its moratorium on wind and solar. ryanjespersen.com #RealTalkRJ

Mayor Bob Young wasn't tolerating any lunacy at a recent Leduc Council meeting. Randy Boissonnault lets us know what he thinks about the "Straight Pride Green Shirt Guy" at the Calgary Stampede. Our Pride Real Talk Round Table provides three fascinating perspectives. Enjoy this episode of The Best of Real Talk! ryanjespersen.com #RealTalkRJ

Aaron Jayjack's death-defying storm chasing blows our mind. Chris Gloninger tells us why he walked away from a big broadcasting job in the States. Enjoy this episode of The Best of Real Talk! ryanjespersen.com #RealTalkRJ

Real Talkers are riled up about a whole bunch of things - from our David Parker interview to gun control to the CFL to "platforming" - in a raucous edition of Trash Talk presented by our friends at Local Environmental Services! SUBMIT YOUR TRASH TALK: [email protected]

There's just something about a farm family recipe. Whether the food is inspired by a cultural or ethnic tradition, season, or region, nothing compares to an iconic dish passed down for generations. Pull your chair up to the table as we celebrate Western Canadian cuisine! 3:15 | Twyla Campbell and Dan Clapson are two of Canada's most-respected food writers. The dynamic duo joins Ryan around the Real Talk Round Table to dig into their stunning new book, "Prairie: Seasonal, Farm-Fresh Recipes Celebrating the Canadian Prairies." CHECK OUT PRAIRIE: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/691738/prairie-by-dan-clapson-and-twyla-campbell/9780525611929 1:10:15 | We learn something new on Real Talk every day! Today's lesson is courtesy Real Talker Devin, who brings some interesting background to last week's chat about "fullscap" paper. 1:14:45 | Real Talkers are riled up about a whole bunch of things - from our David Parker interview to gun control to the CFL to "platforming" - in a raucous edition of Trash Talk presented by our friends at Local Environmental Services! SUBMIT YOUR TRASH TALK: [email protected] KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.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.

"I don't think it matters." Sports talk veteran Jason Gregor was trending across Canada last week after CBC host Mark Connolly asked him why there weren't any women on the roster of Gregor's upstart AM station Sports 1440. 3:00 | Claire Hanna is just back from covering the FIFA Women's World Cup in Australia. The Team Canada volleyball alum, now TSN's Ottawa bureau chief, tells us why she thinks it matters to have women behind the mic and in front of the camera. 34:23 | Jackie Rae Greening is Jason Gregor's boss. The hall of fame broadcaster, now program director at Sports 1440 (and other stations), tells us what she thinks about his comments and the bigger picture of representation in media. 50:10 | Music is coming to the mountains September 8 and 9! We feature the Jasper Folk Music Festival in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. TICKETS: https://www.jasperfolkmusicfestival.ca/ 55:40 | We've been flooded with emails, tweets, and comments about our August 18 interview with Take Back Alberta founder David Parker. Ryan reads five that rose above the rest. 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.

Imagine what a boring world it'd be if we all agreed on everything all the time! In this episode of Real Talk, we read your takes on our August 21 interview with Take Back Alberta founder David Parker. Then, we find out why the Rural Municipalities of Alberta supports the province's seven-month moratorium on new wind and solar projects. 5:05 | Real Talkers have a lot to say about our David Parker interview. Some of you loved it, some of you hated it. Ryan reads a bunch of emails, and checks the tape after being called out by Real Talker Emily. 35:30 | The Rural Municipalities of Alberta are one of the only (if not THE only) advocacy groups to speak out in support of Alberta's moratorium on new wind and solar projects. President Paul McLauchlin explains why. CHECK OUT RMA: https://rmalberta.com/ 1:12:15 | Three people are in serious condition after a targeted shooting at West Edmonton Mall last night. Ryan and Johnny discuss the lockdown, and what may have led to the attack. 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 follow Alberta politics, you've no doubt heard about Take Back Alberta. The group has taken over the United Conservative Party board, and claims responsibility for ousting former premier Jason Kenney. Critics of founder David Parker say he's a religious extremist, a misogynist, and worse. We ask him about all of it on this episode of Real Talk. 3:05 | Take Back Alberta...from whom? Founder David Parker talks to Ryan about his relationship with Premier Danielle Smith, his mission to control school boards across the province, his comments about women working outside the home, the so-called "climate cult," his support for the Coutts border blockaders, and more. 51:35 | Charles Adler has exactly zero time for David Parker, and he holds nothing back. 1:17:30 | Ryan and Johnny can't help but laugh at Kid Rock, caught on camera over the weekend. 1:24:00 | Mark Fuhrmann is an absolute legend. The Canadian, now living in Norway, just completed an 11,000km (!) journey in a kayak: nearly a full year alone at sea raising money for charity. We highlight his remarkable achievement in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kubyenergy.ca/ SUPPORT MARK'S FUNDRAISER: https://www.gofundme.com/f/7qgtz-paddle-for-life 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.

Brad's pissed at Ryan's comment about incels, Kathy's pissed off at a bunch of politicians, and Michael's pissed off at the idea of moving the Grey Cup to Thanksgiving weekend. It's another rowdy edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! SEND US YOUR TRASH TALK: [email protected] KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/

Tens of thousands of Canadians have fled their homes as wildfires destroy Kelowna and threaten Yellowknife. 3:50 | Kelowna is burning as Ryan and Johnny record this episode. They begin with a couple personal angles on the Kelowna fire, including a friend who lost everything overnight. 21:15 | Real Talkers have responded in a BIG way to yesterday's feature on Alberta's skyrocketing electricity prices. Ryan reads a bunch of your Twitter comments and takes a look at the barbs being tossed between Premier Danielle Smith and federal Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault. 35:40 | Real Talkers Thesco and Brock chime in on our interview with Tristin Hopper about Jordan Peterson, Joe Rogan, and Pierre Poilievre. 41:50 | NWT Minister of Environment and Climate Change Shane Thompson, also the Minister of Municipal and Community Affairs, joins Ryan a couple hours before Yellowknife's mandatory evacuation deadline. 52:50 | Real Talker Christine responds to our August 17 interview with Dr. Toor by sharing a journal entry she wrote after asking her doctor for a birth control prescription in 1979. 56:20 | Brad's pissed at Ryan's comment about incels, Kathy's pissed off at a bunch of politicians, and Michael's pissed off at the idea of moving the Grey Cup to Thanksgiving weekend. It's another rowdy edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! SEND US YOUR TRASH TALK: [email protected] KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.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.

"This is where health care meets human rights." Dr. Rupinder Toor and her colleagues are lobbying the feds to make birth control free. She tells us why she founded Project EmpowHer in this episode of Real Talk. 3:10 | Polls show 83% of Canadians approve of free prescription birth control. 70% feel the issue is urgent. Dr. Toor takes us into the history, current reality, and potential future of contraception in Canada. SIGN THE PETITION: https://petitions.ourcommons.ca/en/Petition/Details?Petition=e-4516 CHECK OUT PROJECT EMPOWHER: https://projectempowher.ca/ 48:30 | Thurman Brietzke, 29, is facing charges after targeting a Muslim family with a racist, Islamophobic, homophobic rant. Ryan and Johnny take a look at the troubling story. 54:30 | Canada's got a cost of living crisis. That includes housing, groceries, insurance, and utilities. We look at one number in particular in Alberta that demands a response from the provincial government. 1:13:45 | It's hard to imagine the stress Yellowknife residents are feeling, as more than 20,000 people are evacuating the northern city due to wildfire. What role should governments and companies like Air Canada play in emergency situations like this? EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.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.

In just a few years, Jordan Peterson has amassed a following of millions of disciples. Pierre Poilievre dominated the Conservative Party's most recent leadership race, and doubled its membership in just a couple of months. How'd they do it, and what does it say about Canada? Tristin Hopper breaks it down in this episode of Real Talk. 4:10 | But first...this might be the most ironic back to work order we've seen yet. 5:15 | How'd Jordan Peterson go from a virtual unknown to an internationally-known author and speaker? Why is Pierre Poilievre polling so much higher than any other Conservative leader in recent memory? National Post columnist Tristin Hopper explains. 29:30 | Have you ever experienced Symphony Under the Stars in Jasper? It's a MUST for anybody looking to make life-long memories at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Get new details on this year's edition in today's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. SECURE YOUR SPOT AT SYMPHONY UNDER THE STARS: https://jasperparklodge.ticketbud.com/symphony-under-the-stars-2023 31:40 | Mark Dorin loves oil and gas. Just ask him. But he says Alberta's industry simply isn't ethical. The founder of the Polluter Pay Federation joins Ryan in studio to talk renewables, remediation, R-Star, coal, and how the average Albertan can see through the smokescreens. 1:16:15 | You had a lot to say after our August 15 episode asked, "Is the CFL Dying?" Ryan reads your IG messages, tweets, emails, and we play our first-ever Real Talker video message from "Nasher," who's got a very interesting proposal for future Grey Cups. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.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 it too late to save Canadian football? Attendance is down in almost every market, and there doesn't appear to be a "next generation" of fans. The worst situation might be in Edmonton, where team president Victor Cui just walked away from the winless team. 8:40 | Don't you dare tell Travis Currah the CFL's dying. The host of the 2 and Out CFL Podcast (and season ticket holder for two CFL teams!) tells us how his love for the league started, why he's optimistic for the future, and how the CFL can possibly justify expansion talk. CHECK OUT THE 2 AND OUT PODCAST: https://cfl2andout.podbean.com/ 1:11:00 | With all this talk about wind and solar, Real Talker Don's wondering why we're not talking more about about water. Marie hopes we never stop talking about the Calgary Stampede sexual abuse scandal. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 1:15:35 | Real Talk is proud to partner with art4good to raise funds for the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. ORDER YOUR PRINT: https://art4good.ca/emerald-waters/ 1:18:00 | Did you realize legendary TV personality and painter Bob Ross was taking us all on a journey over time? You'll see what we mean (and it'll blow your mind!) in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kubyenergy.ca/ BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.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.

Everything costs more these days. Mortgages, gas, groceries...you name it, you're probably paying more for it. You've no doubt noticed your power bill is way higher than it used to be. Why is that, and what can you do about it? We find out in this episode of Real Talk. 7:30 | But first, what do you make of Pierre Poilievre's recent bump in the polls? New numbers suggest the Conservative leader would form a majority government if Canadians voted today. (Of course, Canadians aren't voting today - or anytime soon - but that doesn't mean it's not an interesting development) Charles Adler breaks down the story in a way only he can. 35:40 | David "DK" Gray is an energy economist with a thirty year career as a load forecaster, system planner, and analyst. The former executive director of the Utilities Consumer Advocate cuts through the political spin and explains what the NDP did wrong, what the UCP's doing wrong, and what needs to happen for Albertans to pay less for power. 1:09:15 | David unveils "Emerald Waters," a special edition print you can purchase via art4good in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. ORDER YOUR PRINT: https://art4good.ca/emerald-waters/ BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.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 got a LOT to get off your chest when it comes to green energy. Mikey can't hold his tongue about the UCP moratorium on green energy. Garry says you best not forget about oil and gas. Alex says he knows interventionist bullsh*t when he sees it. All three take centre stage in this week's Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services. SEND US YOUR TRASH TALK: [email protected]

What an "electrifying" week it's been on Real Talk! Prompted by political and industry developments, we've spent a bunch of time talking about renewable energy and Alberta's future in that space. New Myrnam School, about two hours east of Edmonton, is currently shortlisted as one of the World's Best Schools for Environmental Action. This episode, we find out what makes this school so special. 2:47 | Robert "Mr. T" Tymofichuk won a Prime Minister's Award for Teaching about a year ago. Principal Danielle Eriksen just accepted an Alberta Emerald Award on behalf of her school. Recent grade 12 graduate Hannah Saruk represents a student group that's won seven consecutive A+ for Energy grants. They tell us all about their school, which might quite literally be the Best in the World. CHECK OUT NEW MYRNAM SCHOOL: https://www.newmyrnamschool.ca/project-s-videos OUTREACH & HOMESCHOOL CENTRE: https://www.mohc.ca/ 1:15:15 | You've got a LOT to get off your chest when it comes to green energy. Mikey can't hold his tongue about the UCP moratorium on green energy. Garry says you best not forget about oil and gas. Alex says he knows interventionist bullsh*t when he sees it. All three take centre stage in this week's Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services. SEND US YOUR TRASH TALK: [email protected] KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/ BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.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.

What can Alberta do to position itself for another century's worth of jobs, investment, and affordable living? Our "electrifying" week of Real Talk continues with NDP energy critic Nagwan Al-Guneid, a longtime oil and gas professional, and energy economist Andrew Leach. 2:30 | Ryan starts the show with a look at the devastation in Lahaina, an historic community on the island of Maui. Hurricane Dora-fuelled winds drove a wildfire through community, killing at least 36 people, displacing thousands more, and destroying much of the city that once served as the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom. 8:00 | Nagwan Al-Guneid, the Alberta NDP Energy & Climate Critic for Electricity, Renewables, & Utilities, makes her Real Talk debut. She responds to UCP Environment Minister Rebecca Schulz's appearance on yesterday's episode, and explains how her party would approach wind and solar development. 35:10 | Energy economist Dr. Andrew Leach explains the short- and longer-term potential impacts of the UCP's moratorium on new wind and solar projects in Alberta. What's really prompting it? What message does it send to industry? How much of this has to do with protecting natural gas? What's Premier Danielle Smith right about, and where is she wrong? 1:08:30 | Ryan reads "powerful" (we can't help ourselves) emails about electricity from Tom in Lethbridge and Amy, who successfully fought to kill the Foothills solar project near Frank Lake. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.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.

Alberta's led the nation by a country mile in renewable energy development. So, how does it make sense to impose a seven-month moratorium on new wind and solar projects? Environment Minister Rebecca Schulz rolls out the government's rationale on this episode of Real Talk. 4:15 | But first, a shout out to Real Talkers who take the time to let us know how our shows are impacting their daily lives! Ryan reads a few "bouquets" emailed to [email protected]. 7:45 | Alberta's UCP government says there's no way the province can get to a net-zero grid by 2035. Critics say stalling new wind and solar projects creates a self-fulfilling prophecy. Minister of Environment and Protected Areas Rebecca Schulz talks to us about renewables, natural gas, utility prices, plastic bag bans, hydrogen investments, the future of water, and Alberta's reputation. 36:30 | Where's all this concern around farm land and electricity-generating eyesores coming from? We take a look at a not-so-long-ago video of Rob Anderson, Premier Danielle Smith's top advisor, calling renewables a "scam". Plus, emails from Real Talkers Sarah and Janice get us thinking about the future of renewables in rural Canada. 59:00 | Don't delay: book your Jasper cabin getaway today! This week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper includes an opportunity to book a brand new four bedroom chalet at Pine Bungalows for 40% off! CHECK OUT THESE AMAZING CHALETS: https://pinebungalows.com/ 1:10:20 | Remember our conversation last week about Health Canada's new cigarette warnings? Real Talker Deanna writes in with a very personal take on an overlooked impact of smoking and vaping. BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.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.

Alberta's UCP government announces a six month moratorium on wind and solar projects, citing rural concerns including loss of agricultural land and impact on scenery. Is it a wise or witless move? Over the next few episodes, we'll hit the story from a bunch of different angles. 4:50 | Charles Adler tells us what he thinks about green energy getting the red light in Alberta. Plus, did the Prime Minister troll his critics on purpose, posting a photo with his son at the Barbie movie? 30:50 | Real Talker Shalaine tells us what she thought of the Barbie movie, and where she'd like the conversation to go. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 40:55 | Binnu Jeyakumar understands the power industry better than most. The director of the Pembina Institute's electricity program explains why the Alberta Advantage applies to renewables, too. She says the UCP's moratorium could mean higher household costs, fewer jobs, and billions of investment dollars lost. CHECK OUT THE PEMBINA INSTITUTE: https://www.pembina.org/ 1:23:30 | We love how Rob Kenney responded to his dad walking out on their family when Rob was a young teen. We shine light on his "Dad, How Do I?" initiative in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. GET YOUR FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ BECOME A REAL TALK PATRON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.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.