Real Talk Ryan Jespersen

Both the UCP and NDP are claiming a win at the only televised debate of the 2023 Alberta Election. Who's right? How do you gauge success? Did either leader - Danielle Smith or Rachel Notley - actually move the needle with undecided (or even "decided") voters? 2:10 | The Strategists produce and host one of Canada's favourite political podcasts. Stephen Carter, Corey Hogan, and Annalise Klingbeil join Ryan to recap the debate's most notable moments. Don't miss their takes on who scored better on image, messaging, and the intangibles! CHECK OUT THE STRATEGISTS: https://thestrategists.ca/ CHECK OUT ANNALISE'S SUBSTACK "GO OUTSIDE": https://gooutside.substack.com/ 57:05 | What exactly was wrong with former Alberta Party leader Stephen Mandel's suit at the 2019 Alberta Election Debate? Johnny presses Ryan on a bold statement earlier in the episode. 59:30 | Tania's got a strong message - delivered out of love (!) - for our Thursday Round Table guests (and Ryan), and Ned's sick of politics as sport. Both sound off in this week's Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/ WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

The only televised debate of the 2023 Alberta Election goes down tonight. What can we expect from Danielle Smith and Rachel Notley? Who has the upper hand? Does it even matter? Furthermore, does anybody even recognize the United Conservative Party anymore? 2:00 | Our Group Chat Round Table reconvenes with Katherine O'Neill, Harman Kandola, and Jenny Adams, veterans of multiple conservative campaigns. We open with observations on what sets this debate apart from any other in Alberta history. Then, our panelists discuss the abhorrent comments from UCP candidate Jennifer Johnson about gender minority students, and what an appropriate response from Danielle Smith looks like. We look back at the PC/WRP merger (Katherine was PC Party president at the time), and how that set the table for today's version of the UCP. Our panel discusses Rob Anderson (Smith's top advisor) defending a far-right commentator, NDP candidate Kevin Van Tighem's comments about the oil and gas industry, and polling discrepancies out of Calgary. All in all, this is an hour of Alberta election coverage you won't want to miss! Let us know what you think: [email protected] WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

It's a total disaster. For decades, Alberta has allowed oil and gas companies to ignore their legal obligation to clean up old wells, tailings ponds, and other environmental liabilities. It's obvious to anybody paying attention that the Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) can't be trusted to look out for the public nor the planet. 4:00 | Markham Hislop has been covering the oil and gas industry for years, as publisher of Energi Media. He takes us into his investigative series "Unethical Oil: Alberta's Secret Shame," and explains how we got to this point. How bad is this mess? What happens if it's not cleaned up? Who on earth is going to foot the bill? Every Albertan needs to watch this interview. READ MARKHAM'S REPORTING: https://energi.media/ CHECK OUT MARKHAM'S PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/energi-talks/id1534771882 35:45 | Snow is disappearing from Jasper's hiking and biking trails, meaning May Long Weekend is a perfect time to head to the mountains! This week's #MyJasper Memories highlights some of the best early season options to explore Jasper National Park. CHECK OUT THE VENTURE BEYOND VIDEO SERIES: https://www.youtube.com/@JasperAlberta 39:50 | Our coverage of Canada's opioid crisis continues as Dr. Andrea Sereda and Guy Felicella join Ryan to talk harm reduction, safer supply, and political opportunism. Why are we so hesitant to accept evidence-based practices in this space? How do we hit stigma head on? What's the number one thing Guy, a survivor of six overdoses, wants you to remember about this issue? 1:17:10 | We are nothing without you, our amazing audience. Since the very first episodes of Real Talk, Brenda Walmsley was the first to sign into the live stream and wish us a "Good morning" in the comments. Ryan takes a minute to pay tribute to a forever friend. WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Nobody will blame you for being confused about voter intention across the province. Duelling polls from Abacus Data and Janet Brown have the UCP either losing big or winning big in Calgary. So, what's a voter to think? Ryan opens the show with campaign developments over the past 24 hours, including both parties' tax plans, controversial comments about transgender students from a UCP candidate in central Alberta, and a proposed plan for forced drug rehab. 10:40 | Ten years ago, Ben Perrin was Prime Minister Stephen Harper's advisor on justice and public safety. The UBC Law professor and best-selling author follows up on yesterday's interview with Adam Zivo about Canada's "safer supply" program. CHECK OUT PROF. PERRIN'S BOOK "OVERDOSE": https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/605163/overdose-by-benjamin-perrin/9780735237889 44:50 | Rachel Gilmore might be Canada's most-trolled journalist. The longtime major network correspondent on far right extremism, conspiracy theories, and misinformation was let go by Global News just two weeks after winning a national journalism award. In one of her first interviews since being laid off, Rachel talks to us about the personal toll of being threatened on an almost-daily basis, and her biggest worry re: the future of journalism, and women working in the field. FOLLOW RACHEL ON TIK TOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@rachel_gilmore?lang=en FOLLOW RACHEL ON TWITTER: https://twitter.com/atRachelGilmore?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Could the UCP really be blowing a big lead in Calgary? Will the NDP be able to hold on and win the election on May 29? Do you even believe what the polls are saying, or is your gut telling you something different? We take a look at some of the top headlines two weeks out from Election Day, and what they could mean outcome-wise. But first... 9:55 | Is the federal government's "safer supply" approach actually fuelling a new opioid crisis in Canada? Is additions research really "politicized and ideologically driven"? Journalist Adam Zivo joins Ryan (from Odesa, Ukraine) to get into his expose published in the National Post. NOTE: PM Stephen Harper's former policy advisor Ben Perrin joins us Tuesday, and harm reduction expert Guy Felicella joins us Wednesday, to respond to Adam's report. READ ADAM'S REPORT: https://nationalpost.com/feature/how-the-liberal-governments-safer-supply-is-fuelling-a-new-opioid-crisis 38:10 | Does UCP leader Danielle Smith seriously think police should be taking orders from the Premier? Did NDP candidate Kevin Van Tighem hurt his party with an essay comparing oil and gas workers to slaves? Charles Adler takes a look at the top political headlines in Alberta two weeks out from the election. 1:22:30 | Every golfer who's played a course lined with houses can relate to the nightmare of a rogue shot smashing a big, expensive window. We LOVE the story of a homeowner who paid it forward, featured in this week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy! GET YOUR FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Jeff says people need to chill over the new Canadian passports, Laurie argues school buses are getting less safe in Alberta, and Monty's wondering what the hell happened to the candidates that lost the UCP leadership race. Buckle up for another fiery edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/

What do Alberta's towns and cities most need right now? A solution to violent crime? Better access to healthcare? $30 billion to save essential infrastructure from collapse? This episode, four Alberta mayors tell us their top priorities two weeks out from the provincial election. 3:35 | Violent crime is up in Edmonton almost 17% over last year. Mayor Amarjeet Sohi knows it's part of the reason why the downtown core's not nearly as vibrant as it once was. What's the solution? Sohi joins Ryan in studio to discuss his State of the City address earlier in the week, crime prevention, harm reduction, the baffling decision to spare an Edmonton cop from charges in the brutal beating of teen Pacey Dumas, and the new Indigenous name for the longest river valley pedestrian trail in North America. 34:15 | Experts say Alberta's got a $30 billion problem on its hands. You might not have heard about it because it's not sexy: it's an infrastructure deficit. And it's a big deal. Mayors Cathy Heron (St. Albert), Tyler Gandam (Wetaskiwin), and Angela Duncan (Alberta Beach) form our Real Talk Round Table, and tell us what they want to see from provincial party leaders through the election campaign. CHECK OUT AB MUNIS ONLINE: https://www.abmunis.ca/ 1:05:25 | The Lebanese Burger Mafia premiered at Hot Docs in Toronto just a couple weeks ago, and this weekend, Omar Mouallem's feature film about the Burger Baron brand will close NorthwestFest. The filmmaker shares his personal connection to the story, and explains what it says about the immigrant journey in Canada. The interview wraps with Omar's thoughts on Ryan's controversial conversation with Mousa Qasqas the day before. NORTHWESTFEST: https://www.northwestfest.ca/ 1:28:30 | Jeff says people need to chill over the new Canadian passports, Laurie argues school buses are getting less safe in Alberta, and Monty's wondering what the hell happened to the candidates that lost the UCP leadership race. Buckle up for another fiery edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/ WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Violence is escalating again in the Gaza Strip, as Israel airstrikes target the militant Islamic Jihad group. UN Secretary-General António Guterres condemned civilian loss of life, saying the deaths of the women and children were “unacceptable and must stop immediately”. 7:30 | Mousa Qasqas has been advocating for peace in the Middle East his entire adult life. The Palestinian Canadian organizer shares his thoughts on why the fighting continues, and why it's not "anti-Semitic" to criticize Israel. CANADA PALESTINE CULTURAL ASSOCIATION: https://cpcayeg.ca/ MOUSA'S EVENT ON SUNDAY: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/palestinian-day-at-the-park-tickets-626747186707 36:15 | With wildfires burning across Alberta, violent crime on the rise in both rural and urban communities, and the opioid crisis continuing to claim lives, it's no wonder the average Canadian might tell you they don't feel safe. Public Safety Minister Bill Blair explains how Ottawa's helping the wildfire fight, and the best ways to cut down on crime. WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Sources inside the United Conservative Party say a faction's already organizing against Danielle Smith. Rumour has it if the UCP doesn't win big on May 29, she could be ousted as party leader. 3:00 | Are the rumblings valid or not? Veteran political columnist Graham Thomson tells us what he's hearing and what his gut's telling him. What does Graham make of Take Back Alberta founder David Parker's claim he "controls the premier's office"? And, with all this talk about Danielle Smith, is the media doing its job in applying proper scrutiny to Rachel Notley and the NDP? Ryan and Graham get into it. 40:52 | Thanks to the tireless work of firefighters across Yellowhead County, Jasper's power supply is stable, shelves are stocked, and the sky is clear. Ahead of May Long Weekend, we focus on some of the best spring openings in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. PLAN YOUR SPRING GETAWAY TO JASPER: https://www.jasper.travel/ 43:43 | We hear a lot of talk about "diversification" from political parties eager to earn your vote. What are Alberta tech companies actually looking for in terms of political commitments? Council of Canadian Innovators president Benjamin Bergen explains where government can lead and where it should get out of the way. Plus, why is Alberta struggling more than any other province to recruit software engineers? Ben lays it out. WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Another day, another apology from Danielle Smith. The UCP leader is facing fire for comments in November of 2021 comparing vaccinated people with followers of Adolf Hitler. Even if her party weathers these storms and wins the election, what're the chances Danielle Smith stays on as leader? 3:40 | Talking about the Holocaust is personal for Charles Adler. The Emmy Award-winning broadcaster explains why, in assessing Danielle Smith's latest "optics issue". Plus, what's the key takeaway from Canada expelling Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei? 34:10 | Cultural values need to be central to research involving Indigenous people in Canada. Athabasca University associate professor Dr. Josie Auger joins Ryan in studio to explain how her kikapekiskwewin podcast came about, and why Indigenous knowledge is so important to shaping the future in all fields. CHECK OUT THE PODCAST: https://aufa.ca/member-news/2023/3/2/aufa-members-launch-indigenous-research-podcast-kikapekiskwewin LEARN MORE ABOUT DR. AUGER: https://news.athabascau.ca/research/au-researcher-studies-the-impact-of-sexual-violation-on-indigenous-women-2/ WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Alberta's on fire. More than 100 wildfires are burning, more than 30 of them out of control. We look at the front-line and long-term storylines, as well as the political implications, in this episode of Real Talk. 6:40 | Why are wildfires so much worse these days? Dr. Mike Flannigan's been in the field for more than 40 years. The Research Chair for Predictive Services, Emergency Management, and Fire Science at Thompson Rivers University explains why May can be such a combustible month, how we can tell climate change is a factor, and what needs to change over the next few years. CHECK OUT MIKE'S WORK: https://www.mikeflannigan.com/ FOLLOW FREELANCE VIDEOJOURNALIST KYLE BRITTAIN: https://twitter.com/KyleBrittainWX 37:25 | What do wildfires have to do with Gordon Lightfoot? Political blogger (and lawyer) Susan Wright joins Ryan to explain. The commentator known as "Susan on the Soapbox" also digs into the implications of Danielle Smith leaving an Alberta Pension Plan and the Sovereignty Act out of the UCP's platform. READ SUSAN'S BLOG: https://susanonthesoapbox.com/ 1:12:05 | We guarantee you'll smile when you see the heroic rescue in this week's Positive Reflections! After a nine-month-old puppy fell 30 feet down a cliff, firefighters rigged up a winch to save the little fella. Positive Reflections is presented by our friends at Kuby Renewable Energy. KUBY'S HIRING: https://kubyenergy.ca/ WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen 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.

With the UCP and NDP polling neck and neck, and the Alberta election less than four weeks away, it's no surprise this week's Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services is 100% politics! KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/

Is our personal information at risk of being stolen? (Probably.) Do we truly understand the barriers people using wheelchairs encounter every day? (Probably not.) Is it possible for divorce proceedings to be a little less nasty? (Here's hoping!) This episode of Real Talk celebrates The Art of Innovation, as highlighted in the May issue of Edify. But first... 5:30 | When's the last time you went to a movie theatre? Cinemas helped shape our connection to arts and culture for decades, but they've fallen on hard times in recent years. In fact, many of them (that haven't already closed) are fighting to survive. Director Raphael Sbarge's film "Only in Theatres" tells the story of the revered Laemmle family, and their mission to save their legendary Los Angeles theatre. CHECK OUT THE NORTHWEST FEST LINEUP: https://www.northwestfest.ca/2023-films 30:25 | When Nidhi Hegde, Arne Andres, and Melissa Bourgeois see red flags, hurdles, and inefficiencies, they do something about it. That's what makes them innovators, featured in the May issue of Edify. Do divorces have to be nasty and expensive? Does AI have to go hand-in-hand with privacy risk? Do daily tasks in a wheelchair have to be so damn inconvenient? Our Real Talk Round Table panelists say no! GET YOUR TICKETS TO EDIFY'S INNOVATION EVENT: https://tickets.edifyedmonton.com/innovation-event-2023/ 58:25 | With the UCP and NDP polling neck and neck, and the Alberta election less than four weeks away, it's no surprise this week's Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services is 100% politics! KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/ WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen 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.

May the 4th be with you! (Don't worry, even if you're not a Star Wars geek like Ryan, you'll still find plenty of value in this episode.) What can we learn from Star Wars about chaos, change, dictators and democracy, fear, hope, and redemption? On this "Star Wars Day" edition of Real Talk, 4:45 | We're living in a time of unprecedented and rapid change. An age of chaos. Democracies are in decline around the world. People feel lonelier and more rudderless than in any other time in recent history. Author Stephen Kent believes part of the solution is hiding in plain sight: it's Star Wars. CHECK OUT STEPHEN'S BOOK: https://www.stephendkent.com/howtheforcecanfixtheworld 29:35 | Recent research shows nearly 80% of Canadian youth aged 16-25 say climate change impacts their overall mental health. That's four out of five young people! John Whidden designed an education program to help elementary school-aged kids understand climate change, learn about solutions, and take action. The environmental educator with the Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) tells us why he did it. LEARN ABOUT CPAWS: https://cpaws.org/ 1:05:00 | Have you heard of "nature bathing"? Johnny and Ryan talk about the mental health benefits of unplugging (for real). PATREON: 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 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.

1:25 | He's had his life threatened, but Corb Lund ain't backing down. The award-winning singer-songwriter is on a mission to stop coal mining in the Rocky Mountains. As election campaigns dominate headlines across Alberta, Lund tells us why he's so motivated to have the eastern slopes on everybody's radar. 36:50 | This year marks the 50th anniversary of Secretariat's Triple Crown. It's also been fifty years since Curtis Stock started covering the sport. The Canadian Horse Racing Hall of Fame journalist joins Ryan for a captivating conversation about the greatest race horse of all time, and the Canadian jockey who rode him. CHECK OUT CURTIS STOCK'S NEW BOOK "THE TURCOTTES": https://www.chapters.indigo.ca/en-ca/books/the-turcottes-the-remarkable-story/9780228104247-item.html?ikwsec=Books&ikwidx=22 1:05:20 | What a barn burner! We received a ton of feedback after yesterday's barn burner with Erika Barootes and Cheryl Oates. Ryan and John debrief after the back-and-forth brouhaha comparing UCP and NDP election platforms. CHIME IN: [email protected] 1:10:13 | Renowned mural artists are in Jasper right now, adding a whole new element of beauty to the already-stunning mountain town. This week's #MyJasper Memories highlights UpLift! The Jasper Mural Festival, underway from May 1-20. It's another great reason to visit Jasper! FOLLOW UpLift! ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/uplift.fest.jasper/ PATREON: 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 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.

Senior campaign advisors Erika Barootes (UCP) and Cheryl Oates (NDP) aren't messing around on today's show. The senior campaign advisors come out punching in what proves to be a must-watch episode of Real Talk. But first... 1:30 | Canadians lost a legend - "our poet laureate" - when Gordon Lightfoot passed away Monday night at 84 years of age. Ryan and Johnny begin the show with a look at Lightfoot's legendary career. 7:50 | Cheryl Oates and Erika Barootes are used to life in the trenches. The former senior staffers for Premiers Rachel Notley and Danielle Smith, respectively, now working the campaigns in Calgary, square off over which party's got the better plan for Alberta and why. 51:00 | How do you feel about a blanket apology for past statements on social media? Ryan and Johnny debate UCP candidate Chelsae Petrovic's statement, including how it affects both parties moving forward. AGREE OR DISAGREE? EMAIL THE SHOW! [email protected] 1:02:45 | It's a harsh reality: there are homeless infants and children in crisis in our cities. Kids Kottage is the Edmonton area's first and only crisis prevention centre for young kids. Demand for services is up 80% in recent years. Janine Fraser and Troy Chalifoux explain why, and what we can do to help society's most vulnerable citizens. LEARN MORE: https://www.kidskottage.org/ WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen 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.

Election season is officially underway in Alberta. Real Talk has you covered with comprehensive analysis of key storylines on Day One of the campaigns. 2:35 | Democracy itself is on the ballot this time around, argues Dr. Jared Wesley. The U of A political scientist leads off our Alberta politics super episode in studio with an examination of exactly what's at stake, and why he (and prominent conservative Ken Boessenkool) argue United Conservative Party leader Danielle Smith isn't actually a conservative. DEMOCRACY ITSELF ON THE BALLOT: https://theconversation.com/democracy-itself-is-on-the-ballot-in-albertas-upcoming-election-203817 DR. WESLEY'S PRE-ELECTION POST-MORTEM: https://drjaredwesley.substack.com/p/this-is-not-a-prediction ALBERTA - NOT AS POLARIZED AS YOU MIGHT THINK: https://cground.substack.com/p/873198d0-79bf-42c7-a590-ff20f0c5e63f DANIELLE SMITH - NOT A CONSERVATIVE: https://theline.substack.com/p/jared-wesley-and-ken-boessenkool?utm_source=substack&utm_campaign=post_embed&utm_medium=web 30:30 | Former Calgary councillor Jeromy Farkas wants to know how his former council colleagues "can possibly justify" an agreement with the province to develop Calgary's new arena district. The candidate for mayor in the most recent municipal election explains why the devil's in the details, and compares Calgary's deal with the one that got Edmonton's ICE District built. 52:05 | Political scientist Duane Bratt isn't inherently against public money for developments like arenas. But he has a couple big problems with the deal between the province and the city of Calgary. He lays out what they are. CHECK OUT DR. BRATT'S TWITTER THREAD: https://twitter.com/DuaneBratt/status/1651683655612522496?s=20 1:10:10 | Alberta's election will come down to one thing, says Charles Adler. The talk radio legend tells us what he thinks the "ballot box question" is this time around. Will Danielle Smith's admiration of Florida Governor Ron DeSantis help or hurt her with voters? Will UCP candidate Chelsae Petrovic be successful in her attempt to get ahead of damaging social media posts? 1:39:50 | THANK YOU to everybody who supported the 2023 Alzheimer's Face Off Pro/Am this past weekend! Ryan gets personal in this edition of Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. KUBY ENERGY IS HIRING! https://kubyenergy.ca/ WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Quick Dick McDick and Brett Kissel are used to big reactions. Quick Dick's YouTube videos see six-figure views on a regular basis, and Kissel's Juno Award-winning country music career speaks for itself. In this episode of The Best of Real Talk, we learn about QDM's rapid rise as one of Canada's most-watched conservative commentators, and the thinking behind Brett Kissel's controversial lockdown-themed single "Line in the Sand". WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Ashley Wanamaker never thought millions of people would check out her TikTok videos about mental health. The self-described "accidental TikTok therapist" explains how counselling's evolved over the past couple of years in this episode of The Best of Real Talk. We loved our time in the Real Talk studio with filmmaker Trevor Anderson and photographer Fish Griwkowsky, discussing their newest project "Before I Change My Mind". If you're intrigued by non-binary representation in society and sport, you won't want to miss this entertaining conversation. WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

What's the secret to living well in the face of adversity? How can we manage mental illness, disease, and other factors standing in the way of healthy relationships with family and friends? YouTube phenom Lauren Kennedy West and author/broadcaster Justin Bourne get intensely personal in this episode of The Best of Real Talk. WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

We feature three forces of nature in this episode of The Best of Real Talk. It's impossible not to be inspired by Shawn Kanungo, Bean Gill, and Brian McPherson! WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Tens of millions of people have watched Johann Hari’s TED Talks about our collective addiction to technology. The evidence is all around us. In this episode of The Best of Real Talk, the author of “Stolen Focus” explains what’s been taken from us, and how to get it back. Are you on the ChatGPT train? More and more people are using artificial intelligence to replace "human powered" writers and other content creators. What are the implications of this AI, in particular for post-secondary institutions already on the lookout for plagiarism? Princeton student Edward Tian tells us about the app he developed to sniff out ChatGPT. WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Michael's choked about our conversation this week about hydrogen, and Avery's antagonized by our 4/20 episode. Both Real Talkers sound off in a "clap back" edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/

Are you overwhelmed by stories of the eventual demise of human life on Planet Earth? Could you use a little encouragement, or even evidence that our grandchildren's grandchildren might still be able to survive here? Don't miss this episode's Real Talk Round Table ahead of Earth Day on April 22. But first... 0:30 | Did you lose your blue checkmark on Twitter this week? Did you pay to keep yours, or maybe get one for the first time? Does any of this matter? Recently-unverified Ryan and Johnny discuss. 7:00 | Video of the Dalai Lama inviting a young boy to "suck his tongue" prompted outrage around the world, followed by claims Tibetan culture was being misinterpreted and misrepresented. Angela Rose founded PAVE after surviving an abduction and sexual assault as a teen. She shares her thoughts on this international story. LEARN MORE ABOUT PAVE: https://www.shatteringthesilence.org/ 31:40 | With Earth Day approaching (April 22), our Real Talk Round Table presented by Urban Timber features movers, shakers, and difference makers in sustainability: Athabasca U researcher Dr. Gina Martin, Canopy founder Nicole Rycroft, and Emissions Reduction Alberta CEO Justin Riemer. Don't miss this ultimately encouraging conversation about packaging, deforestation, industry emissions, fast fashion, and the impact of climate change on youth mental health. DR. MARTIN'S RESEARCH ON MENTAL HEALTH: https://youtu.be/NY2FupedpGQ CANOPY'S AUDACIOUS PLAN: https://canopyplanet.org/ EMISSIONS REDUCTION AB: https://eralberta.ca/ CHECK OUT URBAN TIMBER'S BOXCAR COLLECTION: https://www.urbantimber.ca/ 1:16:02 | Michael's choked about our conversation this week about hydrogen, and Avery's antagonized by our 4/20 episode. Both Real Talkers sound off in a "clap back" edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/ WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Happy 4/20! Whether you celebrate the annual "Weed Day" or not, you're guaranteed to learn something in this special episode of Real Talk. 5:30 | Chances are somebody you know is using CBD for something. The market's flooded with oils, extracts, tinctures, lotions and potions promising some sort of health benefit. But what does the evidence say? Does CBD actually have healing powers? Health myth buster Tim Caulfield kicks off our 4/20 episode with a fact check. HERE'S MORE ON TIM: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/authors/255688/timothy-caulfield 45:45 | For years, she's been one of Canada's most well-known cannabis activists. So, why is 4/20 "bittersweet" for Jodie Giesz-Ramsay (aka Jodie Emery)? Don't miss this informative, insightful take on the pros and cons of cannabis legalization from somebody who sees it from a bunch of different angles. FOLLOW JODIE ON IG: https://www.instagram.com/jodieemery/ WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Is it even possible to succeed in politics without being nasty? Thomas Lukaszuk and Brian Mason locked horns at the Alberta Legislature for years. In one well-publicized exchange, after Mason described the PC deputy premier as a "decorative hood ornament" in Premier Alison Redford's government, Lukaszuk suggested the NDP leader was more like the "Legislature's tail pipe". Despite significant ideological differences, the two always shared a friendship outside the political arena. Is such a relationship even realistic anymore? 4:20 | Lukaszuk and Mason reunite on Real Talk to discuss the past, present, and future of Alberta politics. We cover the evolution of Alberta's Conservative and New Democratic parties, and some of the stories making headlines less than six weeks out from the election. 44:25 | Is there a cooler way to explore Jasper National Park than on a Harley Davidson? We don't think so! This week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper shines the spotlight on Jasper Motorcycle Tours, where there's a fit for every visitor regardless of age, ability, and experience! BOOK YOUR JASPER MOTORCYCLE TOUR: https://jaspermotorcycletours.com/ 47:15 | Did the United Conservative Party get a fair shake from Thomas and Brian? Adam Sweet, founding VP of Policy and Bylaw for the UCP, joins Ryan in studio to debrief after our opening interview. Adam's with Clean Prosperity now - he explains how a new incentive in the federal budget could mean billions of dollars and thousands of jobs for Alberta. If you're eager to learn more about the "clean energy arms race" and the future of hydrogen on the prairies, don't miss this one! CHECK OUT CLEAN PROSPERITY: https://cleanprosperity.ca/posts/ 1:21:25 | Ryan follows up on our conversation with Globe and Mail journalist Vanmala Subramaniam re: a huge public sector strike...but not before Johnny gets something off his chest! WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

150,000 public servants say they'll strike if they don't have a deal with the feds by tonight. The negotiations are highlighting what employees in Canada have come to expect: raises equal to (skyrocketing) inflation and flexible work from home policies. How much of an impact will an eventual agreement between PSAC and Ottawa have on other workplaces across the country? 6:50 | Vanmala Subramaniam is the Future of Work reporter for The Globe and Mail. She tells us what led to what could be the largest strike in Canadian history, and what it means for Canadians filing taxes or applying for passports. Plus, what's the number one storyline Vanmala's keeping an eye on, trend-wise? She tells us! CHECK OUT VANMALA'S STORY IN THE GLOBE: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/business/article-more-than-150000-federal-public-servants-could-go-on-strike-by/ 33:25 | Angie Mellen was diagnosed with an eating disorder at sixteen years old. Her personal journey includes attempts on her life, including one not too long ago. She joins Ryan in studio for Real Talk about disordered eating, manipulative marketing, and what needs to change in the fitness industry. EATING DISORDERS IN THE FITNESS INDUSTRY: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/online-eating-disorders-in-the-fitness-industry-tickets-538008898097 51:30 | Not everybody agrees with Ryan's take on the #DefundTheCBC movement. He gets into some of the "less gracious" replies to his take on yesterday's show. RYAN AND CHARLES ADLER ON "DEFUNDING THE CBC": https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=271&v=rGhaWNuWVno&feature=youtu.be WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Pierre Poilievre is promising to "defund the CBC" if his Conservative party forms government. The Opposition leader is emboldened after his campaign to have the national broadcaster's Twitter account labelled as "government funded media". This is a popular refrain for populist conservative leaders...but what might the actual consequences look like? 4:30 | "Pierre Poilievre is like that one kid in high school..." Emmy Award-winning talk host Charles Adler has lots to say about the CPC leader's promise to defund the CBC. None of it is flattering. 27:00 | Looking to win your playoff pool? We've got NHL.com contributor Derek Van Diest in studio with his picks for who'll emerge from the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs. 54:30 | Is there anything better than dogs FaceTiming? (The answer is no.) You're guaranteed to smile at this week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy! FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kubyenergy.ca/ WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

A trio of banger emails this week as Marilyn wonders who's on the health care chopping block, Donna's choked at Danielle Smith, Thom's predicting a "proper shitfit," and Alison's dedicating her vote to a specific Real Talk guest. Meet the headliners of this week's Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/

What does the future of Canada's energy industry look like? Max Fawcett tees up the good, bad, and ugly of Alberta oil and gas, then Dr. Heather Exner-Pirot and Janetta McKenzie debate whether or not Alberta oil is "ethical" in this Canadian energy super episode of Real Talk! 4:00 | We heard from a TON of you after Ryan's interview with longtime opinion columnist Licia Corbella on April 12. That included a twitter thread from Max Fawcett. The lead columnist for Canada's National Observer kicks off this episode with a few fact checks, and his own opinions on what issues will shape Alberta's upcoming election. CHECK OUT MAX'S TWITTER THREAD: https://twitter.com/maxfawcett/status/1646537476641800193?s=20 READ MAX'S COLUMN ON HOUSING PRICES: https://www.nationalobserver.com/2023/04/13/opinion/we-are-all-blame-canada-brutal-housing-market 29:28 | Is Alberta oil ethical? Dr. Heather Exner-Pirot and Janetta McKenzie debate yes and no respectively in this week's edition of the Real Talk Round Table presented by Urban Timber. We hit the question from a bunch of different angles (including "Does it even matter?") with the Alberta Views contributors. CHECK OUT THE APRIL ISSUE OF ALBERTA VIEWS: https://albertaviews.ca/ Use the promo code AVRJ to save 50% off a one year subscription of Alberta Views! 1:01:13 | Marilyn wonders who's on the health care chopping block, Donna's choked at Danielle Smith, Thom's predicting a "proper shitfit," and Alison's dedicating her vote to a specific Real Talk guest. Meet the headliners of this week's Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/ WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

You know an iconic image the second you see it. Captured by photographer Jason Franson, the shot of a healthcare worker appearing to extend her middle finger to Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has everybody talking. Healthcare will be a major theme in campaigns leading up to the election expected on May 29. Will Albertans trust Danielle Smith with one of their most important public services, or will Rachel Notley's NDP convince them otherwise? 6:10 | The NDP is polling well in Calgary...but does it matter? Basic math suggests the UCP could win big in Alberta's rural ridings and stay in power. Political scientist Dr. Lisa Young gets into pollster Janet Brown's newest numbers, and (more importantly) explains what they mean. SUBSCRIBE TO LISA'S SUBSTACK: https://lisayoung.substack.com/ 37:20 | Longtime opinion columnist Licia Corbella leaves no doubt around who she'll support this election. The conservative scribe joins Ryan to explain why she thinks some of Danielle Smith's most damaging recent headlines are overblown. (This interview ignited a wildfire under our live audience!) EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 1:11:37 | Have you ever ballet skied? You don't need any experience to participate in Marmot's Basin Ballet in Jasper this weekend! We feature this super fun throwback sport in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by our friends at Tourism Jasper. REGISTER FOR THE BASIN BALLET: https://www.skimarmot.com/mountain/upcoming-events/basin-ballet/ WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

5:13 | "This might be political suicide," said UCP candidate Chelsae Petrovic before suggesting some heart attack victims should take more personal accountability. The mayor of Claresholm and candidate for the riding of Livingstone/Macleod is refusing to apologize for her statement during a podcast interview, suggesting critics are taking her remarks out of context. Charles Adler tells us how he sees the latest "bozo eruption" impacting the election landscape (if at all). Plus, Alberta's Ethics Commissioner confirms she's investigating Premier Danielle Smith's controversial phone call with Artur Pawlowski weeks before he faced charges relating to the Coutts border blockade. Will this story still be a story seven weeks from now, when Albertans go to the polls? 35:00 | Canada's police chiefs are telling Canadian premiers much of law enforcement's work is "pointless," considering the cushy bail conditions granted to serial offenders. National Post columnist Tristin Hopper's been covering this development, and joins Ryan to talk about it. Also, why aren't more people talking about the Mass Casualty Commission's final report on the Nova Scotia massacre? 1:01:35 | We LOVE the story Real Talker Lacey shared about a Florida boy who'd been bullied for a homemade t-shirt he made. This week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy highlights an amazing update to a story that started off in a discouraging direction. GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION! [email protected] WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

We're not talking about news, politics, or pop culture this episode. We're talking about suicide. Approximately twelve people die by suicide every day in Canada. Can those deaths be prevented? 0:01 | Kyle Dubé lost his son Luke to suicide two years ago, at just sixteen years old. The "Relentless" podcast host joins Ryan in studio for a powerful conversation about why suicide is complicated. CHECK OUT KYLE'S PODCAST: https://www.youcan.ca/relentless-series/ 35:14 | Anna Mehler Paperny has made multiple attempts on her life over the years. The award-winning journalist and author of "Hello I Want To Die Please Fix Me" shares why she decided to write such an intensely personal book, and what she'd say to somebody else in the same situation. CHECK OUT ANNA'S BOOK: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/551057/hello-i-want-to-die-please-fix-me-by-anna-mehler-paperny/9780735272828 YOU DESERVE TO BE HEARD. TALK SUICIDE IS HERE TO LISTEN: https://talksuicide.ca/ EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Dead rodents and asbestos in the walls, fires due to outdated electrical just waiting to happen...the Prime Minister's official residence at 24 Sussex Drive is an absolute mess. Ryan says it's time to take the politics out of this discussion and fix the problem once and for all. Lower income-earning Albertans will soon be hit hardest when the government's temporary electricity rate cap expires. Economist Blake Shaffer argues there's a better policy approach to manage rising power costs. Plus, can our grid handle an influx of electric vehicles? Shaffer's been doing a bunch of research - he takes us into it. CHECK OUT BLAKE'S WORK: https://www.blakeshaffer.ca/ 29:20 | What would Chris Selley do if he was making the call on 24 Sussex Drive? The National Post columnist lets us know, and explains how he arrived at that decision. 44:50 | How much do you know about how insects reproduce? Would you be surprised to learn human survival depends on bugs getting it on? Filmmaker Andrew Gregg takes us into his wild new documentary Bug Sex. (Note: this interview is temporarily interrupted by a storm near Andrew's house. It continues later in the episode.) WATCH BUG SEX (something we never thought we'd type): https://www.cbc.ca/natureofthings/episodes/bug-sex There are always a whole bunch of reasons to visit Jasper! This week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper highlights the upcoming Jasper Canadian Rockies Half Marathon and the Jasper Pride & Ski Festival. REGISTER TO RUN: http://jaspercanadianrockieshalf.ca/ REGISTER TO PARTY: https://jasperpride.ca/ Ryan touches on a couple stories on our radar: Donald Trump's day in court, and Galen Weston's big raise. Real Talker "Angry Adam" chimes in on Tik Tok - the good, the bad, and the ugly. Ryan reads his email to [email protected]. FOLLOW @REALTALKRJ ON TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj CALLING ALL GOLFERS! Registration is officially open for the second-annual Real Talk Golf Classic. Join us Thursday, June 22 at 2pm at The Ranch Golf & Country Club in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. It's guaranteed to sell out. Secure your foursome today! SIGN UP: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... SPONSORSHIP INQUIRIES: [email protected] WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

It's the biggest news story in the world...or, at least it's being treated that way. Donald Trump, the first current or former president in American history to face criminal charges, appears in a NYC court for arraignment. Already, massive crowds of supporters and opponents are clashing. What's at stake? What does this mean for Trump's personal and political future, and potential unrest in the US? Don't miss our conversations with one of the "superstar brothers of #Resistance Twitter" Brian Krassenstein and talk radio legend Charles Adler. 3:54 | Alberta premier Danielle Smith says if the CBC doesn't retract and apologize for its reporting on her conversation with controversial street preacher Artur Pawlowski, she'll sue. What impact will Smith's dust-up with the national broadcaster, and her relationship with Pawlowski, have on the upcoming provincial election? Ryan tees it up. 6:40 | Real Talker Russ says there's more to the Smith/Pawlowski story than what mainstream media's focusing on. Ryan reads Russ' email to [email protected]. 12:33 | Brian Krassenstein and his twin brother Ed made a big name for themselves as thorns in Donald Trump's side for many years. The founders of hillreporter.com "uncovered multiple plots by right wing Americans to damage the credibility of those working for truth and order," including a 2018 plot to smear former FBI director Robert Mueller with false rape allegations. Brian joins Ryan for an early look at the Trump arraignment story. CHECK OUT KRASSENSTEIN'S DEMOCRATIC INFORMER: https://krassenstein.news/ 37:48 | Charles Adler applies his classic Canadian common sense to the Trump story, then gets closer to home with the Smith/Pawlowski situation. What's the likely outcome of Smith's threat to sue the CBC? Watch or listen to find out! 1:00:00 | The second we received Real Talker Garth's email, we knew it was a perfect fit for Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy. You have to hear how Garth's paying it forward after realizing the big benefits of listening to Real Talk. We LOVE it, Garth! GET A FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ TELL US WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT THE SHOW: [email protected] CALLING ALL GOLFERS! Registration is officially open for the second-annual Real Talk Golf Classic. Join us Thursday, June 22 at 2pm at The Ranch Golf & Country Club in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. It's guaranteed to sell out. Secure your foursome today! SIGN UP: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... SPONSORSHIP INQUIRIES: [email protected] WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

This is the most "moving" Trash Talk to date...in the gnarliest way. You'll see what we mean, as Ryan reads turbocharged text on the federal budget, student burnout, constipation (yup), and the NHL's Pride problem. Trash Talk is presented by Local Environmental Services. KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/

Danielle Smith's got a couple fires to put out. She started one of them herself, and a UCP candidate out of Lethbridge lit the match on the other. Could either situations cost the Premier the election in May? 2:07 | How bad is the video of Premier Smith's call with "pastor" Artur Pawlowski before his trial earlier this year? Ryan kicks off the show with a perspective check. AGREE OR DISAGREE? EMAIL US! [email protected] 12:43 | There's a mental health crisis happening all around us. We may be talking more candidly these days about mental illness and therapy, but that doesn't mean big barriers like stigma and funding aren't still factors at play. This week's Real Talk Round Table presented by Urban Timber features CASA CEO Bonnie Blakley, psychologist Caitlin Ebbers, and "success story" Madeleine Lowe. Parents: when's the right time to reach out for help? Watch this interview to find out. REGISTER FOR CASA'S RED DEER GOLF TOURNEY ON JULY 27 AT ALBERTA SPRINGS: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/casagolfclassic2023-reddeer/event/reddeer/ 43:14 | On March 28, labour economist Dr. Joseph Marchand explained why he thinks Alberta's energy boom isn't translating into a jobs boom. Real Talker Mike emailed the show, taking issue with Dr. Marchand's reasoning. It prompted us to reach out to Diane Francis, the National Post's Editor-at-Large, to dig into her recent piece on Alberta's next resource boom. As you'll see, the veteran columnist rolls in hot! READ DIANE'S COLUMN ON LITHIUM: https://financialpost.com/diane-francis/alberta-resource-boom-lithium 1:06:00 | Real Talker Sheryl isn't sure our focus is as comprehensive as it needs to be in mourning the murders of two Edmonton police officers earlier this month. Our recent interview about Saskatoon's private school scandal resonated deeply with Real Talker Hope. Ryan reads both emails sent to [email protected]. 1:11:30 | This is the most "moving" Trash Talk to date...in the gnarliest way. You'll see what we mean, as Ryan reads turbocharged text on the federal budget, student burnout, constipation (yup), and the NHL's Pride problem. Trash Talk is presented by Local Environmental Services. KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/ CALLING ALL GOLFERS! Registration is officially open for the second-annual Real Talk Golf Classic. Join us Thursday, June 22 at 2pm at The Ranch Golf & Country Club in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. It's guaranteed to sell out. Secure your foursome today! SIGN UP: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... SPONSORSHIP INQUIRIES: [email protected] WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Let's face it: budget coverage is usually pretty boring. The average person doesn't spend much time digging into how governments plan on spending their money. This episode, we focus on the real life stuff: how does the federal government's big-spending, "clean economy"-focused fiscal plan impact you and your family? 1:18 | Erica Ifill isn't your average economist. The animated co-host of the Bad & Bitchy podcast and columnist with The Hill Times brings her signature candid commentary to the table as she and Ryan dig into Budget 2023. CHECK OUT ERICA'S PODCAST: https://www.badandbitchy.com/ 31:57 | It's not all doom and gloom in the restaurant business! Three entrepreneurs featured in Edify's annual Best Restaurants issue join Ryan in studio to discuss post-COVID challenges, changing consumer habits, and farm-to-table menu development. Don't miss Nadine Lewis (Cafe Caribbean), Ed Donszelmann (Otto), and Blair Lebsack (RGE RD)! TICKETS TO EDIFY'S BEST RESTAURANT EVENT: https://edifyedmonton.com/ CAFE CARIBBEAN: https://www.cafecaribbean.ca/ OTTO: https://www.ottofoodanddrink.com/ RGE RD: https://www.rgerd.ca/ 1:05:27 | Jasper Pride & Ski Festival is just around the corner! This week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper highlights some of the must-attend events of this ten-day annual tradition. LEARN MORE: https://jasperpride.ca/ 1:10:50 | Real Talker Mike's not convinced oil companies are scared of big infrastructure investments. Ryan reads Mike's email taking issue with our March 29 interview with labour economist Dr. Joseph Marchand. TELL US WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT THE SHOW: [email protected] CALLING ALL GOLFERS! Registration is officially open for the second-annual Real Talk Golf Classic. Join us Thursday, June 22 at 2pm at The Ranch Golf & Country Club in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. It's guaranteed to sell out. Secure your foursome today! SIGN UP: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... SPONSORSHIP INQUIRIES: [email protected] WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

"Donald Trump is the biggest threat to democracy...and the greatest threat to the Canada/US relationship." That, from former US Ambassador to Canada Bruce Heyman, who headlines this episode of Real Talk. 2:13 | Donald Trump kicked off a rally in Waco, TX with a song by a January 6th prison choir. He's calling the 2024 election "the final battle". What the hell is going on? Former US Ambassador to Canada Bruce Heyman tells us about his personal experience with Trump, and why he says the former POTUS remains such a threat. You won't want to miss former Ambassador Heyman's insights on President Biden's visit to Canada (and whether or not he'll seek re-election), China brokering a peace deal between Saudi Arabia and Iran, and the future of Canada/US trade. CHECK OUT AMBASSADOR HEYMAN'S BOOK: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/The-Art-of-Diplomacy/Bruce-Heyman/9781982102678 37:40 | Why isn't this oil boom bringing jobs with it? Does a $15/hr. minimum wage have anything to do with it? Labour economist Dr. Joseph Marchand dumbs down his fascinating research so the rest of us can understand it. Why is Big Oil hesitant to spend money right now? Would Danielle Smith or Rachel Notley dare campaign on lowering or raising the minimum wage? What's Alberta's next big industry? (And how on earth does Dr. Marchand navigate life without a smart phone?!) Watch to find out! DIG INTO THE DATA ON ALBERTA'S JOB MARKET: https://ideas.repec.org/a/eee/juecon/v71y2012i1p165-174.html GOVERNMENT REPORT ON $15/HR MINIMUM WAGE: https://www.alberta.ca/release.cfm?xID=867676DD301D0-957E-602E-B638B5039C13B9FB HERE'S MORE ON $15/HR MINIMUM WAGE: https://ideas.repec.org/p/ris/albaec/2020_015.html TELL US WHAT YOU THINK ABOUT THE SHOW: [email protected] CALLING ALL GOLFERS! Registration is officially open for the second-annual Real Talk Golf Classic. Join us Thursday, June 22 at 2pm at The Ranch Golf & Country Club in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. It's guaranteed to sell out. Secure your foursome today! SIGN UP: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... SPONSORSHIP INQUIRIES: [email protected] WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

US President Joe Biden's 27-hour visit to Ottawa dominated the news cycle across the country: was that the whole point? Today's expert guests analyze the key moments, the distractions, and the bigger picture around POTUS in Canada. In other news, two Edmonton Police officers killed March 16 will be honoured today with a regimental funeral and procession. Ryan opens the show with a few thoughts about the service for Travis Jordan and Brett Ryan. 3:33 | Trade, jobs, and security were top of the list when POTUS and PMJT met in Ottawa for the first time since Biden was elected. Kathleen Petty, host of CBC's West of Centre podcast, explains how the average Canadian can evaluate the value of these visits, and makes an important point about interruptions to the news cycle. 38:18 | No doubt provoked by Kathleen Petty's promise he'd "light the house on fire," Charles Adler rolls red hot into today's show. See for yourself what led the Titan of Talk to grab his Emmy off the shelf (literally)! Chuck says the Conservatives dropped the ball during Biden's visit. After you hear him out, let us know if you agree or disagree: [email protected] 57:55 | How did 14-year-old journalist Wyatt Sharpe wind up with a press pass to cover POTUS' visit from the front row? The host of The Wyatt Sharpe Show brings his unique blend of youthfulness and informed insight, and takes us behind the scenes of his biggest assignment to date. CHECK OUT WYATT'S SHOW: https://www.youtube.com/@thewyattsharpeshow 1:08:03 | Ryan's just a few hours removed from a visit to The Happiest Place on Earth, so this week's Positive Reflections is a no-brainer. Don't miss his family's Disneyland review, including a ride on the brand new Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway! Positive Reflections is presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. GET YOUR FREE SOLAR QUOTE: https://kubyenergy.ca/ CALLING ALL GOLFERS! Registration is officially open for the second-annual Real Talk Golf Classic. Join us Thursday, June 22 at 2pm at The Ranch Golf & Country Club in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. It's guaranteed to sell out. Secure your foursome today! SIGN UP: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... SPONSORSHIP INQUIRIES: [email protected] WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Jocelyne is sticking up for all the starving students in this week's edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/

When a first responder is killed in the line of duty, their entire community feels the loss. This episode of Real Talk is dedicated to Edmonton Police constables Travis Jordan and Brett Ryan, murdered while responding to a domestic call early Thursday morning. 3:55 | John Kirkman lost friends and colleagues in Mayerthorpe, Wetaskiwin, and St. Albert over the course of his career as a first responder. The former EMT and ten-year RCMP veteran joins Ryan in studio for a powerful conversation you won't want to miss. GOFUNDME FOR CST. JORDAN & CST. RYAN'S FAMILIES: https://www.gofundme.com/f/cst-ryan-cst-jordan-memorial-fundraiser 30:47 | When a community experiences major loss like the deaths of Brett Ryan and Travis Jordan, people gather with loved ones to talk about it. That's the spirit of this week's Real Talk Round Table presented by Urban Timber. Ryan connects with Katherine O'Neill, Harman Kandola, and Jarrett Campbell, who share their thoughts on the connection between police and civilians, and some of the questions that come up in tragedies like this. 57:07 | Jocelyne is sticking up for all the starving students in this week's edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/ Calling all golfers: registration is officially open for the second-annual Real Talk Golf Classic! Join us Thursday, June 22 at 2pm at The Ranch Golf & Country Club in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. It's easily the most fun golf tournament in Edmonton, and it's guaranteed to sell out. Secure your foursome today! SIGN UP: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... SPONSORSHIP INQUIRIES: [email protected] WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

This episode, we cover the implications of China meddling in our democracy, and the future of electric vehicles in Canada. But we begin the show with tragic breaking news: the murders of two Edmonton Police officers, killed while responding to a domestic call at an apartment block west of downtown. 0:55 | Edmonton Police constables Travis Jordan and Brett Ryan were shot and killed in the line of duty early Thursday morning. Ryan begins the show reflecting on our inability as civilians to truly understand the inherent risks of this profession, and the rise of domestic violence calls in Alberta and across the country. WATCH OUR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE ROUND TABLE FROM MARCH 8: https://www.youtube.com/live/ImTTTk_tYoI?feature=share&t=100 12:07 | The Government of Canada closes comments on its proposed zero-emission vehicles regulations on the day we're recording this episode. The Pembina Institute's transportation director Adam Thorn explains why the regulations matter, and what the EV landscape might look like two, five, and ten years down the road. OF NOTE: Edmonton experienced a minor earthquake during this interview! Check out Ryan's camera shaking around 12:12. CHECK OUT THE PEMBINA INSTITUTE: https://www.pembina.org/ 29:40 | Did you see Ryan's camera shaking around the 12:12 mark? While we didn't feel much in the studio, astute Real Talkers like "Arty Miss" in the YouTube live chat let us know we'd experienced a minor earthquake. We take a look at the evidence from Environment Canada. Fascinating stuff! 35:57 | Do you have confidence in Canada's democracy? Do you trust recent election results? Joanna Chiu is a B.C.-based journalist covering national and international news for the Star. A former correspondent in Hong Kong and Beijing, and a graduate of the Columbia University School of Journalism, she is the author of "China Unbound," which examines the global political impacts of China's rise. We guarantee you'll better understand the bigger picture around Beijing's end game after catching this interview. Fascinating stuff. FOLLOW JOANNA ON TWITTER: https://twitter.com/joannachiu READ HER WORK IN THE STAR: https://www.thestar.com/authors.chiu_joanna.html ORDER HER BOOK: https://houseofanansi.com/products/china-unbound 1:14:40 | Are you following Real Talk on TikTok? Recent posts have been going off, including hundreds of comments from Real Talkers just like you! When we say this is Canada's most engaged talk audience, we've got the receipts! Calling all golfers: registration is officially open for the second-annual Real Talk Golf Classic! Join us Thursday, June 22 at 2pm at The Ranch Golf & Country Club in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. It's easily the most fun golf tournament in Edmonton, and it's guaranteed to sell out. Secure your foursome today! SIGN UP: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-g... SPONSORSHIP INQUIRIES: [email protected] WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Do we do enough to hold corporations, organizations, and politicians accountable when they behave badly? From toxic leaks to greasy politics, today's episode investigates some of the top stories in the country, and what Canadians are doing about them. 4:09 | Chief Allan Adam didn't mince words on the March 6 episode of Real Talk. Straight up, he called Imperial Oil's nine-month toxic tailings pond leak "a cover-up". Chief Adam's comments have aged well, as Ottawa's stepping in to demand action while the Alberta Energy Regulator sits on its hands. We continue our coverage of this explosive story. 18:33 | Pierre Poilievre knows China didn't throw the 2021 federal election...but that won't stop him from suggesting that's the case. Is this a Trump 2.0 "stolen election" play? Ryan looks back at a week-old op/ed from the Conservative Party's 2021 national campaign manager and stacks it up against the Opposition leader's statement yesterday. (They don't square up.) 26:40 | "Conflicts of interest run deep in Saskatchewan politics. This is why I'm grateful for Real Talk." Ryan reads an email from Real Talker Steve relating to our coverage of the Legacy Christian Academy scandal in Saskatoon. WATCH OUR INTERVIEW RE: THE $25M CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT: https://www.youtube.com/live/_sWH8J81fSI?feature=share&t=1400 35:25 | The Jasper SkyTram opens in a week! It's one of the coolest ways to explore Jasper National Park. Get on board in this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper! CHECK OUT THE JASPER SKYTRAM: https://www.jasper.travel/things-to-do/skytram/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw2cWgBhDYARIsALggUhovol7nGeoGrhYjmuaVEDhfBw1wmpbivyhLF00E0tccvrwmKt0CnIoaAms1EALw_wcB 37:55 | Is ESG actually worth it? Does it makes financial sense for corporations and organizations to actually invest in the Environmental, Social, & Governance movement? Onyen CEO Laurie Clark, twice named one of Canada's 100 Most Powerful Women, gets into recent polling around how the average Canadian actually feels. Fascinating stuff. (Did this interview resonate with you? Let us know! [email protected]) 1:07:25 | Have you subscribed to Alberta Views yet? Use the promo code AVRJ to knock 50% off a one-year, ten-issue subscription to the magazine for engaged citizens. SUBSCRIBE TODAY: https://albertaviews.ca/ 1:08:30 | Calling all golfers: registration is officially open for the second-annual Real Talk Golf Classic! Join us Thursday, June 22 at 2pm at The Ranch Golf & Country Club in support of the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. It's easily the most fun golf tournament in Edmonton, and it's guaranteed to sell out. Secure your foursome today! SIGN UP: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-golf-classic SPONSORSHIP INQUIRIES: [email protected] WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Caitlin Erickson's been threatened, followed, and had her house set on fire after speaking out against her former school, Saskatoon's Legacy Christian Academy. She was in the courtroom yesterday for the school's former athletic director's first appearance on sexual assault and sexual exploitation charges. The spokesperson for a proposed $25M class action lawsuit brings us up to speed on this major story. But first... 1:40 | Cason Feuser was playing with his buddies near Rocky Mountain House when all of a sudden he was fighting for his life. A cougar attacked the seven-year-old from behind, inflicting multiple life-threatening injuries. Seven months later, Cason and his mom Chay share his amazing survival story. 23:20 | Fifty former students have joined a proposed $25M class action lawsuit targeting Legacy Christian Academy. Meantime, the Saskatoon private school's former athletic director had his first court appearance this week, charged with sexual assault and sexual exploitation. LCA alum Caitlin Erickson tells us what it was like to be in court yesterday, and explains why she thinks the Saskatchewan government's new reporting standards for private schools fall short. HERE'S OUR AUG 10 INTERVIEW WITH OTHER LCA ALUMNI: https://www.youtube.com/live/dNaPsms29DA?feature=share&t=2651 51:30 | The Weeknd walks away with the most hardware at the Juno Awards of 2023, held last night in Edmonton. Don't miss Johnny's Junos Review, only here on Real Talk! WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

2:00 | After seven years of brutal harassment, broadcaster Jody Vance finally got to face her bully in court. She spoke with us Friday just before the court date, and returns to the show to tell us all about it. Jody shares how it felt to deliver her victim impact statement, and what she makes of Richard Sean Oliver's sentence. 33:20 | Who pissed in Hugh Grant's Corn Flakes? Charles Adler serves up his take on the movie star's less-than-generous red carpet performance at the Oscars. 39:20 | Real Talker Jared wrote into the show after watching our February 22 interview featuring "Wheelie Peeps" Bean Gill and Brian McPherson. He offers up great insights into "invisible disabilities". WATCH THE WHEELIE PEEPS SEGMENT: https://www.youtube.com/live/056zJYeNI3g?feature=share&t=1190 SEND US AN EMAIL! [email protected] 44:55 | In part two of our interview with Charles Adler, he tells us what the sentence would look like if he was the judge in Jody Vance's criminal harassment case. Plus, he explains why the Chinese election interference story is "catnip for RWNJs". 59:00 | We love hearing about Real Talkers' Random Acts of Kindness! Dion emailed his Positive Reflection after his kids did something super cool during their trip to Las Vegas. Way to go, Kneller family! Positive Reflections is presented Mondays on Real Talk by Kuby Renewable Energy. GET YOUR FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/ WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

Adam's sick of hearing about "rage farming," and Gabe says there's no such thing as the "far left" in Canada. Both of them blow off a whole bunch of steam in this week's edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/

From an Edmonton MP's visit to Ukraine, to a broadcaster's battle against an online harasser, to the UCP's plan for healthcare, this is a Real Talk episode you'll want to catch from start-to-finish. 3:15 | Heather McPherson's just back from Ukraine, where the Member of Parliament for Edmonton-Strathcona met with diplomats and civilians amid Russian attacks. She tells us about what she saw there, how it shaped her opinion on supports from Canada. The NDP MP also chimes in on Chinese interference in Canadian democracy, including where she says the Prime Minister's falling short. 19:39 | It's a big day for broadcaster Jody Vance. She joins Real Talk an hour before facing her harasser in court. Jody tells us how it all started, why she pressed charges, what she makes of his guilty plea...and she says his name out loud for the first time, right here on Real Talk. 36:00 | Underfund, criticize, privatize. That's Dr. Rebecca Graff-McRae's assessment of the UCP plan for healthcare in Alberta. The Parkland Institute research manager takes us into her feature in the March issue of Alberta Views, and explains why the province's healthcare crisis isn't even close to being fixed. SUBSCRIBE TO ALBERTA VIEWS: the promo code AVRJ knocks 50% off a one-year, ten-issue subscription at https://albertaviews.ca/subscribe/ 1:16:03 | Adam's sick of hearing about "rage farming," and Gabe says there's no such thing as the "far left" in Canada. Both of them blow off a whole bunch of steam in this week's edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/ WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

The Alberta city of Grande Prairie (population 68,000) has $10M from the province to transition from the RCMP to a municipal police service. It's interesting timing, with Premier Danielle Smith intent on replacing the Mounties with a provincial force. Ryan chats with Mayor Jackie Clayton and Councillor Dylan Bressey on the heels of Monday's 8-1 city council vote in favour of the move. But first... 4:37 | No, you won't soon be able to buy cocaine in BC convenience stores. Moira Wyton, journalist for The Tyee, joins to fact check the story that grabbed Canada's attention last week. Meantime, BC becomes the first jurisdiction in Canada to cover prescription contraception April 1st. Rachel Notley says she'll do the same thing in Alberta if the NDP wins the May election. What are the implications? 35:40 | Who's going to pay for Grande Prairie's new municipal police service? How is it possible without a tax increase, as Mayor Jackie Clayton's promising? What convinced Councillor Dylan Bressey to change his mind and vote in favour of replacing the RCMP? Do the elected officials fear they're being used as pawns by a provincial government intent on establishing a provincial police force? We get into a story with significant implications across Alberta. 1:07:03 | Would you take your kids to Vegas? Ryan and Johnny weigh the pros and cons. SHOOT US AN EMAIL: [email protected] WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.

On International Women's Day, we feature back-to-back Real Talk Round Tables presented by Urban Timber: the heavy lifting emergency shelters are doing in Alberta, and game-changing opportunities for women in the male-dominated aviation industry. 1:40 | It's an ugly reality: domestic violence is more of an issue now than ever before in Alberta, and thousands of women and children are being turned away from emergency shelters operating at capacity. Jan Reimer, Marla Poelzer, and survivor Candice Ryan join for a to-the-point talk about root causes, life-saving resources, and what needs to change. ALBERTA COUNCIL OF WOMEN'S SHELTERS: https://acws.ca/ JESSICA MARTEL MEMORIAL FOUNDATION: https://jessicamartelmemorialfoundation.com/ 42:07 | Fewer than 10% of pilots are women. Fewer than 5% of aircraft maintenance technicians are women. Fewer than 20% of air traffic controllers are women. Kendra Kincaide wants to change that. The CEO of Elevate Aviation joins colleague Nova Andrews and graduate Cassara Nash to explain how they're introducing more women to careers in aviation, and which barriers still exist. CHECK OUT ELEVATE AVIATION'S FREE NINE-WEEK COURSE: https://elevateaviation.ca/ 1:13:50 | Spring Break is nearly upon us! It's a perfect time of year to take the family to Jasper. This week's #MyJasper Memories highlights a few season-specific opportunities, including a dog sledding adventure back in time! BOOK YOUR JASPER SPRING BREAK GETAWAY: https://www.jasper.travel/ 1:16:50 | Who's in the room? Are we living up to the promises we're making to our little girls by following through with actions? Women hold just 35% of leadership positions, despite being at least 50% of the workforce. We wrap this special episode of Real Talk with a video produced by Hoopla Media. LEARN MORE ABOUT HOOPLA'S "EVERY OPPORTUNITY" CAMPAIGN: https://hooplamedia.ca/iwd WEBSITE: https://ryanjespersen.com/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/RealTalkRJ INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/RealTalkRJ/ TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@realtalkrj PATREON: https://www.patreon.com/ryanjespersen THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING OUR SPONSORS! https://ryanjespersen.com/sponsors The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.