Real Talk Ryan Jespersen

It's a new era for Real Talk! The first show from our new location features Alberta Premier-designate Danielle Smith, who joins us in studio just a couple hours before her swearing-in ceremony. 4:07 | What is Premier-designate Danielle Smith's first order of business once she swears in? What's her message to Albertans who say she's not yet earned a mandate to govern? What did she say to Prime Minister Trudeau during their first official phone call? Why won't she seek the open seat in Calgary-Elbow? Will she unblock people on Twitter, now that she'll be leading Alberta's government? We cover a lot of ground in our first interview since Smith's UCP leadership victory. 42:43 | Huupe is the world's first "smart" basketball hoop, and it's transforming how people play one of the most popular sports on the planet. The technological innovations and interpersonal implications place Huupe in the spotlight of this week's The Leading Edge presented by Leading Edge Physiotherapy. LIFE SHOULDN'T HURT: https://leadingedgephysio.com/ 55:51 | If you've heard Brandi Morin on Real Talk before, you know she's a force of nature. The journalist (and member of our Real Talk Editorial Board) was in New York City over the weekend accepting an Edward R. Murrow Award for her six-part Al Jazeera series on Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. We're proud to feature Brandi in this week's edition of Positive Reflections presented 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 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 love hearing from our international audience members! Marty in Melbourne is the star of this week's edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services. KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/

0:57 | Starting October 1, travellers will no longer be required to wear masks, provide proof of vaccination, or use the ArriveCAN app to enter Canada. Ryan kicks off the show with an early look at his unofficial, unscientific Twitter poll on non-mandatory mask use "in transit". CHECK OUT THE POLL: https://twitter.com/ryanjespersen/status/1574401471801856006 14:13 | Emmy Award-winning talk radio legend Charles Adler tells us whether or not he'll continue to mask up on planes, and how he arrived at his decision. Chuck also chimes in on the stories making news over the weekend, including Pierre Poilievre clapping back at derogatory comments aimed at his family, W. Brett Wilson's bizarre obsession with the Prime Minister, and CBC anchor Ginella Massa's statement about women wearing (or not wearing) hijabs in Canada. 37:52 | Cancer patients in BC have the longest wait times for care in the country. Journalist Andrea Woo tells us why, expanding on her excellent reporting for The Globe and Mail. READ ANDREA'S RECENT WORK: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-british-columbia-cancer-care-staff-shortages/ 58:57 | Brian Jean wants to "axe taxes" as Alberta's next premier. But where's he been for the last month or so? We take a look at an...interesting video posted by the former Wildrose Party leader with about a week to go in the UCP leadership campaign. 1:05:05 | Not every Positive Reflection has a happy ending. Sometimes, we feature stories of people making the most of a tragic circumstance. That's the case in this week's edition, presented by Kuby Energy. GET YOUR FREE SOLAR QUOTE: 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 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.

9:07 | Political operative Craig Chandler, fired by Danielle Smith this week, is suing Mount Royal University's Dr. Duane Bratt and private citizen Cassandra Raugust for defamation. But why? In an exclusive interview, the two defendants share their side of this bizarre story stemming from prank calls purporting to be from the Smith UCP leadership campaign. HEAR THE CALLS MADE TO CASSANDRA: https://twitter.com/thisismecassie/status/1561021051005329409?s=11&t=tcNAJqlkGb6f9tdhDMzqaQ https://twitter.com/thisismecassie/status/1561547577673367552?s=11&t=uafC63BZuOFO0CYjeiovfg https://twitter.com/thisismecassie/status/1561549195735072769?s=11&t=s6L0Vn9TG5w11fik-NYbog 30:32 | Does the United States still see Canada's claim to the Northwest Passage as "illegitimate"? Prompted by an email from Real Talk subscriber Lydia, we speak with Yale University political scientist Dr. Andy Knight about the Arctic territory, its historical connection to Canada, and present-day implications including climate change (including international shipping routes) and national security. 42:44 | More than a thousand elected representatives and other engaged Albertans gathered in Calgary last week for the Alberta Municipalities Convention & Trade Show. What do you need to know? We check in with ABMunis president Cathy Heron and director Dylan Bressey for an update on an Alberta police force, EMS and other healthcare services, the "strained" relationship between different levels of government, and more. CHECK OUT ALBERTA MUNICIPALITIES: https://www.abmunis.ca/ 1:10:45 | This is our final show from Real Talk Studio 1.0! Ryan and John have an update for you as we prepare to move into our new digs next week. Circle Tuesday, October 11 on your calendar - we expect that'll be our first show from Studio 2.0! 1:14:14 | We love hearing from our international audience members! Marty in Melbourne is the star of 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 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.

4:05 | In a scene straight out of the movies, NASA scientists (intentionally) crashed a satellite into an asteroid ten million kilometres away from Earth. It's an early step in establishing a "planetary defence" strategy. Does it make you feel more safe, knowing humans may avoid the fate of the dinosaurs? 16:45 | For nearly a third of his life, Brad Galloway was a white supremacist. Now, he works to combat hate, extremism, and terrorism in Canada. He tells Real Talk how he fell into extremism, and how he got out. Is the far-right group "Diagolon" (whose leader Jeremy Mackenzie joked about sexually assaulting Anaida Poilievre) a threat to security in Canada? How can the average person spot red flags, and what should we do about them? Don't miss this important conversation. LEARN MORE ABOUT BRAD'S WORK: https://preventviolence.ca/ 39:29 | Dr. Sajjad Fazel is demanding more from politicians. The health policy expert, frustrated by divisive, partisan attacks, says it's time we see more empathy and respect from elected officials. READ SAJJAD'S THREAD: https://twitter.com/SajjadFazel/status/1573795401106423811?s=20&t=LjkdrKb4_jq_lR5r9L8VJA 1:02:34 | Are you still driving with a Graduated Driver's License (GDL)? Alberta's making changes to how it certifies drivers. Johnny gets personal about his own situation (and it's pretty hilarious). 1:09:31 | The Jasper Dark Sky Festival is happening October 14 to 23! Don't miss your chance to experience the world's largest dark sky preserve in stunning fashion. #MyJasper Memories is presented Wednesdays on Real Talk by our friends at Tourism Jasper. LEARN MORE & GET YOUR TICKETS: https://jasperdarksky.travel/ 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.

0:20 | Is Italy back on the road to fascism? Will thousands of Canadians be left uninsured for damages from Hurricane Fiona? What are the implications of Alberta pushing back on Ottawa's "firearms confiscation program"? What percentage of Real Talkers polled will still wear masks on airplanes? There's a lot to keep an eye on these days. Ryan opens the show with a few quick hits. 11:01 | Is the election of Italy's new PM Giorgia Meloni an indicator that country is back on the road to fascism? What does the far-right coalition government mean for Italy, the EU, and the "western world"? Dr. Piero Garofalo, author of "Internal Exile in Fascist Italy" sets the scene (going back a hundred years), and brings us up to present day. ORDER DR. GAROFALO'S BOOK: https://www.amazon.com/Books-Piero-Garofalo/s?rh=n%3A283155%2Cp_27%3APiero+Garofalo 37:51 | Real Talker "Darren" emailed the show, taking issue with the oft-invoked phrase "common sense politics". It perfectly tees up our upcoming interview with Dr. Sajjad Fazel on Wednesday. EMAIL REAL TALK: [email protected] 43:05 | In this week's The Leading Edge: cyborg cockroaches. No, seriously. They're real, they're fascinating, and one day they might save your life. The Leading Edge is presented Tuesdays on Real Talk by Leading Edge Physiotherapy. LIFE SHOULDN'T HURT: https://leadingedgephysio.com/ 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.

Audience member Catalina's email about the "Mushy Middle" lit a fire under a whole bunch of Real Talkers, including a few featured in this week's edition of Trash Talk. We couldn't help ourselves - we had to include Flames coach Darryl Sutter, too. Trash Talk is presented by Local Environmental Services. KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/ SUBMIT YOUR TRASH TALK: [email protected]

0:24 | Does Dale Smith owe Garnett Genuis an apology? Ryan kicks off the show with a look at a tweet from the independent journalist that went viral after CPC leader Pierre Poilievre accused "Journo Dale" of threatening his MP. 8:27 | Supriya Dwivedi chimes in on the story, including thoughts on the role the Parliamentary Press Gallery plays (or should play) in this brouhaha. Is the relationship between politicians (Conservatives in particular) and the national media about to get even worse? This is one of the spiciest exchanges Supriya and Ryan have ever had - make sure you check it out! 36:01 | How is the UK winning the race against climate change? Science journalist Anne Shibata Casselman and Caroline Brouillette, national policy director at Climate Action Network Canada, form this week's Real Talk Round Table. Why has Canada failed to make meaningful progress on emissions reductions? What do the next few years look like - politically, economically, and otherwise? CHECK OUT ANNE'S PIECE IN THE WALRUS: https://thewalrus.ca/uk-climate-change/ CHECK OUT CAROLINE'S PIECE IN POLICY OPTIONS: https://policyoptions.irpp.org/magazines/july-2022/canada-cop27-course-correct/ 1:10:34 | Audience member Catalina's email about the "Mushy Middle" lit a fire under a whole bunch of Real Talkers, including a few featured in this week's edition of Trash Talk. We couldn't help ourselves - we had to include Flames coach Darryl Sutter, too. Trash Talk is presented by Local Environmental Services. KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/ SUBMIT YOUR TRASH TALK: [email protected] 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.

0:25 | How bad is the damage to Alberta's reputation when a cabinet minister praises the "Freedom" convoy? Today's show opens with a deep dive into Kaycee Madu's comments about COVID restrictions and those who fought them. 6:31 | Dr. Duane Bratt, political scientist out of Mount Royal University, explains why Minister Madu's comments may be bad for the province, but good for Kaycee's career. We analyze MP Michelle Rempel Garner's unignorable disdain for colleague Garnet Genius channeling Freddy Mercury (ish) in the House of Commons, and former President Donald Trump's claim he "thought about" declassifying documents, thus, declassified them. DIG INTO DR. BRATT'S WORK: https://www.amazon.ca/Books-Duane-Bratt/s?rh=n%3A916520%2Cp_27%3ADuane+Bratt 45:18 | Daughters Day celebrates the achievements of women in Alberta. We check in with chair Dr. Vivian Abboud and award recipient Delmy Garcia-Hoyt to learn more about the challenges facing immigrants to Canada, women living in poverty, and more. CHECK OUT DAUGHTERS DAY: https://daughters-day.com/ 1:00:28 | An email from Real Talker "Catalina" got many of us thinking - including panelists Charles Adler, Erica Ifill, and Mo Amir - when she asked who else belonged to the political "mushy middle". Erica and Mo were particularly critical of the premise of Catalina's email during their September 21 panel on Real Talk, prompting a reply from the author...which Ryan reads in this episode. We're all about furthering the discussion on Real Talk. Thanks to Catalina for following up, and keeping us thinking! 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 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.

1:17 | Do you need to brace for World War III? Vladimir Putin says he's "not bluffing" about using nukes. We open with a look at this developing story on the Russian President's plan in Ukraine. Plus, what would you do with $1.34B? That's the conversation two anonymous Americans are having after the third-largest lottery windfall in US history. 15:53 | The Unofficial Opposition Real Talk Round Table is back! Erica Ifill and Mo Amir have a chemistry you can't manufacture. Don't miss their takes on the Prime Minister at the piano, the "Mushy Middle" of the political spectrum, married couples seeking elected office together, and Alberta cabinet minister Kaycee Madu's expressed support of the "Freedom" convoy. READ ERICA'S PIECE ON THE QUEEN: https://www.hilltimes.com/2022/09/21/the-queen-is-gone-and-im-glad-her-reign-is-over/383458 CHECK OUT MO'S SHOW: https://www.cheknews.ca/shows/this-is-vancolour/ 1:10:20 | It's a perfect time of year to visit beautiful Jasper, Alberta! This week's #MyJasper Memories lays out some wonderful options for seasonal experiences like (heated jacket) motorcycle/sidecar tours, Indigenous Fireside Storytelling, and Jasper Food Tours. PLAN YOUR OWN #MYJASPER MEMORIES: https://www.jasper.travel/ 1:13:30 | We get into the Real Talk mailbag to hear from Carolyn and Ron (in what we promise will be the last we discuss Justin Trudeau singing Queen...unless there are new developments). 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 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.

0:40 | Canada's Prime Minister was singing karaoke at a hotel bar a couple nights before the Queen's funeral: do you care? Ryan and John review some of the more prominent criticism of PM Trudeau's "down time," and check on what Real Talkers have to say about it. 15:14 | Are you happy at your job? It's International Week of Happiness at Work. Talent recruiter David Bolton explains what Canadians care about most at their jobs, and how trends have changed over the years. CHECK OUT WHAT DAVID'S TEAM DOES AT ROBERT HALF: https://www.roberthalf.ca/en 32:26 | Travis Toews wants to be Alberta's next premier. The former finance minister lays out his plan for party unity, Alberta's future in Canada, a provincial pension plan, re-indexing income tax and social supports (including AISH), and addressing the opioid crisis. CHECK OUT THE TOEWS CAMPAIGN: https://www.toewsforalberta.ca/ 58:54 | Researchers at the University of Alberta Telerobotic and Biorobotic Systems Group are literally changing lives. Combining AI, machine learning, and exoskeleton technology earns them the spotlight in this week's edition of The Leading Edge presented by Leading Edge Physiotherapy. LIFE SHOULDN'T HURT: https://leadingedgephysio.com/ 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.

0:25 | As millions tuned in to watch Queen Elizabeth II's funeral, Ryan opens the show with a look at what some Canadians did to observe the occasion. 6:34 | Nobody does Canadian Common Sense like Charles Adler. The RTDNA Lifetime Achievement Award winning talk host shares what led to his so-called "renaissance," and analyzes today's political landscape in plain language everybody should consume. 44:35 | Ryan hosted a "rev contest" over the weekend, won by a Ford Mustang Super Snake at a whopping 130.4 decibels. Gearheads won't want to miss this video! 47:03 | Are you a member of the "mushy middle"? Real Talk subscriber Catalina gets us all thinking with a thought-provoking email to [email protected]. 57:50 | A woman with scientific superpowers (no, seriously!) headlines this week's edition of Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Renewable Energy. If somebody you know is living with Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease, you must check out the story of Joy Milne. 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 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.

Johnny winds up in the crosshairs of today's Trash Talk! Hilarious stuff, as always, submitted by Real Talkers to [email protected] and presented by our friends at Local Environmental Services. KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/

0:28 | It's Julie Rohr Day in our home city of Edmonton. Ryan opens the show remembering the founding member of the Real Talk Editorial Board, who passed away a year ago today. 8:30 | Julie Rohr's legacy includes the Real Talk Julie Rohr Scholarship. The inaugural winner, Hani Bombaywala, shares her own story of loss, and explains the very personal reason why she's pursuing a career in nursing. DONATE TO THE REAL TALK JULIE ROHR SCHOLARSHIP: https://www.ecfoundation.org/funds/the-real-talk-julie-rohr-scholarship-fund/ SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS: https://ryanjespersen.com/scholarship 34:00 | It's always a great conversation when Jody Vance and Lynda Steele join the Real Talk Round Table. Don't miss this raw, honest conversation about hate mail and threats, mental health therapy, today's media landscape, and Monday's federal holiday to remember Queen Elizabeth II. CHECK OUT STEELE & VANCE ON CHEK: https://www.cheknews.ca/shows/steele-and-vance/ 1:29:25 | Johnny winds up in the crosshairs of today's Trash Talk! Hilarious stuff, as always, submitted by Real Talkers to [email protected] and presented by our friends at 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 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.

0:30 | Roger Federer is hanging up his tennis shoes. Ryan and John, who admittedly know very little about tennis, discuss the 20-time Grand Slam Champion's legacy. Plus, there's an update from our friends in Jasper: the mountain town is open for business and safe to visit! Great news for everybody who had their vacation plans altered due to the Chetamon Mountain wildfire. FURTHER UPDATES ON JASPER: https://www.jasper.travel/ 11:53 | Just days after their candidate was soundly defeated, senior Charest campaign staffers Chris Rougier and Michelle Coates Mather take us behind the scenes of the Conservative Party of Canada leadership race, including when they knew Pierre Poilievre was going to win, and what they with they'd done differently. 39:47 | Has Justin Trudeau met his match in the new Conservative leader? Globe and Mail columnist Gary Mason argues that could be the case. Plus, there are a ton of similarities between the CPC and UCP (Alberta) leadership races. Gary gets into it all. 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.

0:20 | It's Pierre Poilievre vs. the Mainstream Media...at least that's what the new Conservative leader wants you to believe. Ryan opens the show with a look at yesterday's dust-up between Poilievre and national political correspondent David Akin. 14:41 | Could the combative tone set by Poilievre through his campaign, and early in his tenure as leader, wind up biting the Conservative Party? Was David Akin out of line for speaking out at Poilievre's news conference on Tuesday? National Post columnist Tristin Hopper checks in. 38:46 | There are global forces at play, in analyzing the evolution of Conservative politics in the US, Canada, and elsewhere. Author, political analyst, and podcaster Jared Yates Sexton takes us into his new book The Midnight Kingdom: A History of Power, Paranoia, and the Coming Crisis. Don't miss this expose into how white supremacist lies, religious mythologies, and poisonous conspiracy theories built the modern world and threaten to plunge us into an authoritarian nightmare. CHECK OUT JARED'S WORK: https://www.amazon.com/Jared-Yates-Sexton/e/B00B50IHYK%3Fref=dbs_a_mng_rwt_scns_share 1:09:47 | "Mark my words." Real Talker Ron says he's convinced Pierre Poilievre is the next Prime Minister of Canada...but he's not exactly thrilled about "the Conservatives as they currently stand". Ryan reads Ron's email to [email protected]. 1:06:28 | The Chetamon Mountain wildfire isn't threatening any communities at this time, but authorities are still advising against travel to Jasper at this time. We have the latest update in this week's edition of #MyJasper Memories. STAY ON TOP OF CHETAMON WILDFIRE NEWS: https://www.jasper.travel/realtalk/ 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.

0:30 | Real Talk is all about real conversations about real issues in a context that really matters. Today, that includes better understanding what's driving inflation and rising interest rates, paying attention to the opioid crisis claiming thousands of human lives every year, and addressing food waste in our communities. We also thought you might care about the new iPhone upgrade that allows you to retract texts you wish you wouldn't have sent...so that's where Ryan and Johnny kick off the show! 15:20 | Inflation and interest rates have risen to levels we haven't seen since the 1990s. How much longer will this trend last, how bad could it get, and what can the average person do to adjust? Economist Alex Gainer make sense of it all, and doesn't shy away from the politics involved, either. 44:22 | Will Cardinal-Mawer's uncle "Mopstick" (Maurice) and cousin Jacob were shot and killed near Glendon, Alberta on March 27, 2020. Will gives Real Talk an unflinching assessment of what it's like to be an Indigenous person mourning murdered relatives and pursuing justice "in public". Will sees REAL life everyday as a street outreach worker. He tells us how rising costs and other factors are affecting society's most marginalized citizens. Thousands of people die in Canada every year from drug poisoning. Will talks about his first-hand (almost daily) experiences relating to this crisis. FOLLOW WILL ON INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/thewolvesarecalling/?hl=en 1:10:50 | 40% of food is wasted around the world. A website/app pairing up businesses and consumers is "democratizing the fight against food waste". We shine a light on Too Good To Go in this week's edition of The Leading Edge presented by Leading Edge Physiotherapy. CHECK OUT TOO GOOD TO GO: https://toogoodtogo.ca/en-ca/ LIFE SHOULDN'T HURT: https://leadingedgephysio.com/ 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.

9:09 | What a whooping. Pierre Poilievre is the new leader of Canada's Conservatives, blowing the rest of the field out of the water with nearly 70% of the vote from party members. But will he secure enough support from the general public to become Prime Minister? How will his message evolve? Plus, the Prime Minister announces he'll seek a fourth term. How likely is another Trudeau win, especially in light of Poilievre's "arrival"? Emmy Award-winning talk host Charles Adler shares his thoughts. 42:07 | When we promise you REAL Talk, we mean it. Our team booked death educator Jeremy Allen several days ago to discuss grief and loss in light of last week's horrific tragedy in Saskatchewan. Over the weekend, Jeremy and his family said goodbye to their bulldog Bryan. This interview starts very personal, and widens out from there. Grab a tissue or two and allow yourself to really get into it. CHECK OUT DEATH ED: https://www.deathed.ca/ 1:15:09 | A sand artist named Claire Eason is the subject of this week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy. Claire's 65-foot tribute to Queen Elizabeth II on Bamburgh Beach caught the attention of people around the world, including Real Talker Mikaela, who shared the story with us. We love hearing what's inspired or encouraged you through the week! SUBMIT YOUR POSITIVE REFLECTION: [email protected] 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 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.

Gerry has Motley Crue in his crosshairs in this week's edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Waste! KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/ SEND US YOUR TRASH TALK: [email protected]

8:00 | Is it "too soon" for critics of The Queen, or those with even stronger feelings about the Monarchy, to be publicly airing their disdain? Supriya Dwivedi says no. She and Ryan discuss Queen Elizabeth II's lengthy reign, and evaluate some of the more uncomfortable (valid) perspectives on social media. Plus, does the public deserve more transparency from the Saskatchewan RCMP? And, how bad was Francois Legault's commentary on immigrants to Quebec? SUBSCRIBE TO SERIOUSLY WITH SUPRIYA AND RYAN: https://seriouslypod.com/ CHECK OUT THE PODCAST: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/seriously-with-supriya-and-ryan/id1633490807 FIND SERIOUSLY ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL3YTxuQYdtjK0k0ksGbmRQ 37:11 | Harman Kandola, Jenny Adams, and Katherine O'Neill return as the Group Chat Round Table reconvenes on Real Talk. We discuss public sentiment around Queen Elizabeth II's passing, the horrific tragedy affecting James Smith Cree Nation, Alberta's $13B budget surplus, and what a Pierre Poilievre victory means for the federal political landscape. 1:07:06 | Gerry has Motley Crue in his crosshairs in this week's edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Waste! KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/ SEND US YOUR TRASH TALK: [email protected] 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.

0:25 | Saskatchewan fugitive Myles Sanderson dies in police custody, the Royal Family is gathered at Queen Elizabeth II's bedside, and millions of Canadians are figuring out how they'll navigate yet another jump in interest rates. Ryan opens the show with a look at today's top stories. 19:53 | The average Canadian household needs to find an additional $400/month to manage Wednesday's interest rate increase. But...how? Personal finance expert Laurie Campbell explains why rates are up, whether or not they're likely to jump again, and where people should start their search for savings. 39:22 | Systemic racism is impacting health outcomes in Canada. We know that for a fact...but there's a lot we don't know, too. Dr. Lorraine Thirsk is using innovative new research methods at Athabasca University to better understand what the future of healthcare needs to look like in Canada. She takes us into the process and early findings, and explains the implications from patient and professional perspectives. CHECK OUT OTHER REAL TALK SEGMENTS ON SYSTEMIC RACISM IN HEALTH CARE: DR. BUKOLA SALAMI: https://youtu.be/cTLjWwP8FmI?t=4837 DR. JAMES MAKOKIS: https://youtu.be/_WanLgFz2T4?t=376 CHECK OUT ATHABASCA UNIVERSITY: 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.

0:34 | Canadians with variable rate mortgages, lines of credit, and other obligations will be paying more after the Bank of Canada raised its overnight rate by 75 basis points to 3.25%. Ryan opens the show with some general observations just moments after the rate hike was announced. 9:17 | Philippe Fournier is all about politics and polling. The 338Canada founder gives us a sense of the biggest issues at play in the Quebec's election, and who might walk away the winner. Plus, we look at a Nanos poll suggesting 70% of Canadians are turned off by "Freedom convoy" support, and hash out who might be most affected by that reality (hint: it's Pierre Poilievre). CHECK OUT 338CANADA: https://338canada.com/ 45:44 | It's quite unusual to see opposition to Danielle Smith's proposed "Alberta Sovereignty Act" from Conservatives and the NDP alike. We review Alberta Premier Jason Kenney's scathing assessment of the proposed legislation, and assess what it might mean for some of the "middle ground" candidates in the UCP leadership race. 51:08 | It's a bit of a different edition of #MyJasper Memories this week on Real Talk, as the Chetamon wildfire continues to burn, and officials in Jasper are asking would-be visitors to reconsider their travel plans. Ryan shows highlights of his recent visit to the Jasper Park Lodge golf course, just hours before the fire started to spread. GET UPDATES ON THE CHETAMON MOUNTAIN WILDFIRE: https://www.jasper.travel/wildfire/ 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.

0:25 | People around the world are mourning one of the worst mass killings in Canadian history. Police say at least ten people are dead, and at least 18 more injured, after two brothers went on a stabbing spree at multiple locations across James Smith Cree Nation and nearby Weldon, Saskatchewan. Ryan shares an update on the manhunt and an email from Real Talker listener Joy, to open the show. 11:27 | Rob Clarke served as an RCMP Sergeant and Member of Parliament, so he's processing the tragedy out of Saskatchewan through a number of different lenses. The member of Muskeg Lake First Nation tells us why he established a GoFundMe fundraiser for victims of the attacks in Saskatchewan, and where he intends to transfer the nearly $100,000 raised (at the time of our interview). CHECK OUT THE GOFUNDME: https://www.gofundme.com/f/funerals-and-counseling 31:33 | For decades, Canadians have trusted Charles Adler to bring an informed, personal perspective to national news stories. Today is no different, as Chuck shares his thoughts on what occurred in Saskatchewan over the long weekend. We also take an introductory look at Britain's new PM Liz Truss, and evaluate UCP leadership candidate Brian Jean's recent posts about lockdowns and vaccinations. 1:01:44 | Every Tuesday, our friends at Leading Edge Physiotherapy shine the light on innovation in the world around us. Today, it's the remarkable (ocean-saving) Thaely shoes! CHECK OUT THAELY SHOES: https://thaely.com/ LIFE SHOULDN'T HURT: https://leadingedgephysio.com/ 1:09:34 | Our first episode every week, Kuby Energy presents Positive Reflections. In this week's edition, one proud mom's remarkable rental, and a chimpanzee returned to the Ukrainian zoo from which it escaped. Love it! 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 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.

Things get personal in this week's edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! Submit your Trash Talk to [email protected]. KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/

7:15 | NASA is headed back to the Moon for the first time in fifty years. Astrophysicist Dr. Katie Mack explains why the Artemis 1 mission is such a big deal, and what we could learn from returning to the Moon. Make sure you catch this mind-blowing conversation! CHECK OUT KATIE'S BOOK: https://www.astrokatie.com/ 31:59 | Ryan and Johnny debrief after the fascinating interview with Dr. Mack, including musings on updating the language we use. 38:42 | What would you do with $13B? Ryan takes a look at the replies you submitted to his tweet about Alberta's budget surplus. 50:56 | Things get personal in this week's edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! Submit your Trash Talk to [email protected]. KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/ NOTE: Real Talk is taking Friday and Monday off. We'll be back live Tuesday, September 6 at 8:30am MT/10:30am ET. Subscribe to our Real Talk Sunday Message for weekly updates and bonus content relating to the show! 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.

0:47 | What would you do with an extra $13B? It's a good problem to have for the Alberta government, which is running a far bigger surplus than expected, thanks to relatively high resource revenues. Ryan discusses a few different options on how that surplus could be reinvested. 6:22 | What would you do if you came across a dog (or a child) in a hot car? It happened to Ryan yesterday. We take a look at what you told us via his unofficial, unscientific Twitter poll. CHECK OUT THE POLL RESULTS: https://twitter.com/ryanjespersen/status/1564676737744924672 13:39 | "It's pretty clear what a horse head symbolizes." Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek talks about death threats levelled at her and her family, and lays out what we (politicians, media, and the general public) need to do about online rage and offline (real life) implications. CHECK OUT MAYOR GONDEK'S TWITTER THREAD: https://twitter.com/JyotiGondek/status/1563994106468380672 42:42 | Is Justin Trudeau really rolling out body armour-clad Climate Police officers, like Danielle Smith's saying? Canada's National Observer lead columnist Max Fawcett fact checks the story, and shares his thoughts on who should be held responsible for spreading misinformation, and how. READ MAX'S WORK: https://www.nationalobserver.com/ 1:11:22 | Sunday, September 11 is Be More Kind Day. Real Talk is proud to support this important initiative. Ryan tees up our involvement with Be More Kind Day, which we'll officially announce tomorrow - Thursday, September 1. Be sure to check out that episode! 1:13:51 | This week's #MyJasper Memories features a remarkable Jasper resident: brain injury survivor Elissa Cummings. Don't miss this feature, part of the continuing Venture Beyond video series. CHECK OUT ELISSA'S FULL FEATURE: https://www.jasper.travel/discover-jasper/venture-beyond-series/ 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.

11:11 | "Human wildlife" is how Charles Adler describes Elliot McDavid, the man who confronted Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland in Grande Prairie over the weekend. Adler's being criticized for "attacking conservatives" with his assessment. He and Ryan discuss the difference between a fair and unfair label, and explore the roots of many Albertans' demand to be treated differently than their fellow Canadians. 37:27 | "F*ck off, you f*ckwads." That was Mayor Diane Therrien's message to QAnon supporters attempting to place Peterborough police officers under citizen's arrest. We talk to Mayor Therrien about the international attention she received for her comments, what her text inbox looked like after she tweeted out her personal phone number, and why she's not seeking re-election. Do not miss this interview with Ryan's new favourite politician! 1:01:22 | Johnny and Ryan recap the interview with Mayor Therrien, including their thoughts on the differences between Gen X'ers, Millennials, and Gen Z in politics, the workforce, and elsewhere. 1:06:46 | Have you ever experienced vertigo? Do you know someone who has? They may benefit from the TRV Chair, in the spotlight in this week's edition of The Leading Edge presented by Leading Edge Physiotherapy. LIFE SHOULDN'T HURT: 1:08:46 | We love when you email the show. Ryan reads messages from Chris (gun control) and Chantal (sexism in the workplace) sent to [email protected]. 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.

0:54 | What an absolute embarrassment for Alberta. By now, you've likely seen Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland being verbally accosted by a goon in the lobby of Grande Prairie City Hall. Ryan kicks off the show reviewing video of the incident, and focusing what high-profile politicians are (and aren't) saying. 12:02 | "This is not our Grande Prairie," says Mayor Jackie Clayton...but is that accurate? Her Worship tells us what the first few minutes after the encounter were like, and how she plans to manage the damage to her region's reputation. 33:37 | Real Talkers have a lot to say about what happened in Grande Prairie, and the bigger picture of hate, vitriol, and violence in politics and elsewhere. Ryan reads a couple powerful emails sent to [email protected]. 45:24 | Alanna Hnatiw has seen her fair share of poisonous politics. The Sturgeon County Mayor shares her thoughts on the Grande Prairie incident, then takes our questions about the Prairie Gardens controversy. The popular agri-tourism business was recently shut down by the County...but why? We go beyond the headlines to get the real story behind what led to the closure. We wrap with the Mayor's take on the potential of hydrogen (and other energy industry activities) in the area. 1:20:36 | Keanu Reeves headlines this week's edition of Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy! GET YOUR FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: kubyenergy.ca 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.

Ty, a "severely normal" audience member who's "seen enough around him to step up and write into the show for the first time" highlights another red hot edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! SEND US YOUR TRASH TALK: [email protected] KEEP IT LOCAL: https://localenvironmental.ca/

11:10 | The White House hired social media strategist Megan Coyne a while back, and it's paying immediate dividends. Supriya Dwivedi and Ryan lead with yesterday's all-out Twitter blitz taking down Republican misinformation re: student loan forgiveness. We also discuss "lack of consensus" re: masks in Ontario schools this fall, and Dr. Leslyn Lewis comparing vaccine mandates to the Holocaust. SUBSCRIBE TO SERIOUSLY WITH SUPRIYA AND RYAN: https://seriouslypod.com/ 34:31 | In what proves to be one of the most candid, insightful, and impactful Real Talk Round Tables in the history of this show, Nora Loreto, Erica Ifill, and Kristin Raworth shine a light on what appears to be a coordinated online campaign of threats and harassment targeting women working in politics and journalism. You won't want to miss this extended-length, pull-no-punches discussion on how we as individuals (and a collective) need to hit this problem head-on. READ NORA'S PIECE ON HARASSMENT AND THE MEDIA: https://readpassage.com/the-problem-with-our-conversation-on-harassment-of-journalists/ 1:35:57 | Ty, a "severely normal" audience member who's "seen enough around him to step up and write into the show for the first time" highlights another red hot edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services! SEND US YOUR TRASH TALK: [email protected] 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 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.

0:43 | Americans making less than $125,000 annually will be eligible for up to $10,000 of their federal student loans. Ahead of our interview at 39:06 with Elamin Abdelmahmoud, Ryan addresses some of the early praise and criticism around the announcement by President Joe Biden. 8:28 | The Mass Casualty Commission in Halifax has shone a light on the inner workings (and dysfunction) within the RCMP. We bring you some of the key moments of RCMP Commissioner Brenda Lucki's testimony, and highlight some of the responses we've received from Real Talkers to [email protected]. 18:48 | RCMP Commissioner Lucki says concerns over political interference in the police investigation have been overblown, and she's growing frustrated with questions on the subject. Rod Giltaca would disagree. The CEO of the Canadian Coalition for Firearm Rights tells us what stood out to him through Lucki's testimony at the MCC, and shares how he sees the gun lobby in the US and Canada as completely separate entities. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CCFR: https://firearmrights.ca/ 39:06 | It took Elamin Abdelmahmoud ten years to pay off his $45,000 student loan, and it goes without saying he's not alone. The senior culture writer for BuzzFeed News explains why forgiving student loans isn't a slap in the face, but the right thing to do. Elamin and Ryan discuss the political viability of "free" post-secondary education in Canada, and the debt load facing younger adults. READ ELAMIN'S COLUMN: https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/elaminabdelmahmoud/biden-student-loan-forgiveness 1:00:44 | We wrap the show with a follow-up to yesterday's impromptu conversation about the best stops in shopping mall food courts. Saving the best for last! 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.

5:47 | Does RCMP Commissioner Brenda Lucki have any idea what's going on within Canada's national police force? The question is fair, after her damning testimony at the Mass Casualty Commission following the horrific mass shooting in Nova Scotia in April of 2020. Ryan opens the show summarizing what Canada's top cop told (or didn't tell) the MCC over the past couple of days. 17:44 | Iconic retailer Zellers is coming back...but will Canadians support it? Will the return to brick and mortar work for the formerly-popular discount retailer? Consumer behaviour expert Heather Thomson tells us why Zellers closed years ago, and what to watch for when it opens its doors again. LEARN MORE ABOUT HEATHER: http://heatherthomson.ca/about/ 42:50 | "If you can dodge a wrench...you can dodge a ball." Most people know the one-liners from the popular film "Dodgeball," but how much do you know about the actual sport? As Canada prepares to host the World Dodgeball Championships, we talk to the president of the World Dodgeball Federation and one of Team Canada's top stars. CHECK OUT THE WORLD DODGEBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS: https://worlddodgeballfederation.com/2022-world-dodgeball-championships/ 59:19 | The Columbia Icefield is one of Canada's most magnificent natural treasures. In this week's #MyJasper Memories, we learn about Rockaboo Mountain Adventures' "Tread Lightly" Glacier Hikes, and the future of net zero, environmentally-conscious tourism in Jasper National Park. BOOK YOUR GLACIER ADVENTURE: https://rockaboo.ca/ 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.

1:14 | Dove Canada is capitalizing on the controversy around Lisa LaFlamme's firing, encouraging women to #KeepTheGrey. Ryan opens the show with an email from Real Talker Laurie, a hairstylist, who offers a unique (and entertaining) angle on aging. 13:39 | Zeller's is coming back to Canada. No, seriously! Ryan and John muse about what the iconic Canadian retailer's return might look like (ahead of our chat with retail expert Heather Thomson tomorrow). 15:06 | Andrew Coyne, likely Canada's most-read political commentator, chimes in on Lisa LaFlamme, Pierre Poilievre and Diagolon, Danielle Smith's proposed Alberta Sovereignty Act, and the future of conservatism in Canada. Don't miss this interview! 39:29 | Constitutional lawyer David Khan explains why the Alberta Sovereignty Act is "gaslighting," and explains why he thinks there's still space on the political spectrum for the Alberta Liberal Party (despite its recent leadership race that drew exactly zero candidates). 59:03 | We feature a "punk rock" water brand for "straight edge" consumers in this week's edition of The Leading Edge presented by Leading Edge Physiotherapy. LIFE SHOULDN'T HURT: https://leadingedgephysio.com/

Poof...gone. Thirty-five years into a storied career, veteran news anchor Lisa LaFlamme is unceremoniously cut loose by bean counters at CTV. We talk to talk radio legend Charles Adler about the state of media in Canada, and what prompts decisions like this. Chuck also chimes in on the "bacon and eggs" vibe of Pierre Poilievre's latest video aimed at PM Justin Trudeau. Journalists, in particular women of colour, are being subjected to a coordinated hate campaign across the country. Senator Paula Simons, an award-winning journalist, shares her thoughts on how such threats should be addressed, and how attitudes in newsrooms have evolved over the years. Back after a week on the beach, Ryan looks back on the restorative impact of sand between the toes in this week's edition of Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy. GET YOUR FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: kubyenergy.ca

Real Talk is on vacation! Enjoy our Best Of episodes this week, featuring some of our favourite recent interviews. We’re back at it live on August 22, 2022. ryanjespersen.com

Real Talk is on vacation! Enjoy our Best Of episodes this week, featuring some of our favourite recent interviews. We’re back at it live on August 22, 2022. ryanjespersen.com

Real Talk is on vacation! Enjoy our Best Of episodes this week, featuring some of our favourite recent interviews. We’re back at it live on August 22, 2022. ryanjespersen.com

Real Talk is on vacation! Enjoy our Best Of episodes this week, featuring some of our favourite recent interviews. We’re back at it live on August 22, 2022. ryanjespersen.com

Real Talk is on vacation! Enjoy our Best Of episodes this week, featuring some of our favourite recent interviews. We’re back at it live on August 22, 2022. ryanjespersen.com

2:40 | Rest in Power, Ben Stelter. The six-year-old superfan of the Edmonton Oilers passed away Tuesday evening after bravely battling glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer. Ryan opens the show honouring the boy who brought the entire hockey community together. 7:54 | In less than a month, Conservative Party of Canada (CPC) voters will select their new leader. Jean Charest may be lagging in the polls, but he says he'll fight to the end. Ryan asks the former Quebec Premier about Pierre Poilievre missing the debate (and earning Stephen Harper's endorsement), his proposed tweak to the carbon tax, daycare funding, Reconciliation, and more. 43:47 | Following yesterday's interviews with alumni from Saskatoon's Legacy Christian Academy, Ryan checks in with Saskatchewan NDP leader Carla Beck. What would appropriate government action look like? Are there funding implications? The conversation evolves to provincial political dynamics across western Canada, the rise of populism, and the role of Crown corporations.

13:12 | Hockey parents conflicted about registering their kids for the fall won't want to miss this interview with Jeff Nash. The longtime hockey player, coach, official, and production professional has personal experience with the highs and lows of the sport, including being hazed as a rookie in Junior. "Nasher" shares how a backyard rink project influenced his feelings about his kids playing the game, and talks about being the change in a sport facing a cultural crisis. 44:11 | Sean Kotelmach and Jillian Kudryk are two of the (at least) eighteen alumni of Saskatoon Christian Centre Academy who've joined a $25M class action lawsuit against their former school. Allegations of sexual assault, emotional and physical abuse including so-called "gay exorcisms" and punitive isolation policies, gaslighting, and manipulation have prompted calls for criminal and government investigations, and suspension of public funding for what's now known as Legacy Christian Academy. Sean and Jillian share their personal stories, including what prompted them to come forward after many years. 1:10:05 | We received a bunch of emails after our segment on a racist, sexist essay that took third prize in an Alberta government contest. Ryan reads messages from Anton and Jenny, who submitted their takes to [email protected]. (Congratulations to Jenny, spontaneously awarded our Real Talk Email of the Month for August. Enjoy your free Real Talk studio mug!) 1:16:50 | There's an amazing new way to explore Jasper National Park! Open Top Touring presents vintage tours with a modern twist. Jump on board for a ride in this week's edition of #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper! CHECK OUT MORE OPPORTUNITIES TO EXPLORE JASPER: https://www.jasper.travel/realtalk/ 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.

0:33 | "They even broke into my safe!" Former President Donald Trump says the FBI raid of his Mar-A-Lago mansion is "an attack by Radical Left Democrats". Ryan opens the show with up-to-the-minute commentary of this major, developing story. 13:18 | The third-place winner in the Alberta government's "Her Vision Inspires" essay contest espouses Great Replacement Theory, suggests it's "harmful" to "promote women break into careers that men traditionally dominate," and proposes families receive medals (no, seriously!) for having two or more children. NDP MLA Rakhi Pancholi talks about who needs to answer for selecting the essay as a winner, and what message it sends to Albertans and the rest of the country. 44:29 | Hockey journalist Jashvina Shah says it may be time to disband Hockey Canada. The author of "Game Misconduct: Hockey's Toxic Culture and How To Fix It" plots out a way forward for millions of hockey fans rocked by multiple allegations of sexual assault aimed at former Team Canada players. CHECK OUT JASHVINA'S BOOK: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/57136757-game-misconduct READ HER GLOBE & MAIL OP/ED: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-it-should-be-game-over-for-hockey-canada-if-the-organization-doesnt/ 1:20:16 | This week's The Leading Edge celebrates an inventor and entrepreneur whose innovation makes reading more affordable and accessible for the blind community. The Leading Edge is presented Tuesdays on Real Talk by Leading Edge Physiotherapy. LIFE SHOULDN'T HURT: https://leadingedgephysio.com/ 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.

6:57 | Alex Jones owes $49.3M to parents of a child killed in the Sandy Hook massacre, after repeatedly claiming the mass shooting was a hoax. Supriya Dwivedi analyzes the verdict out of Texas - the first of three Sandy Hook-related cases against Jones to be decided - and what it may mean for the larger misinformation ecosystem. (Supriya's assessment may surprise you.) 34:45 | Former PM Stephen Harper's endorsement hasn't accomplished what Pierre Poilievre no doubt hoped it would...but why? Emmy Award-winning talk host Charles Adler breaks it down. Plus, how does Chuck feel about Poilievre's "Amigo" video, zeroing in on the Prime Minister's family vacation? Watch and find out! 1:09:37 | Inspired by Charles' assessment of Canada's conservative landscape, Ryan shares a Twitter thread that caught his attention over the weekend. 1:17:55 | This week's edition of Positive Reflections celebrates two species making a comeback from near-extinction! Thanks to Brynley for submitting these good news stories to [email protected]. Positive Reflections is presented the first show of every week by our friends at Kuby Energy. GET YOUR FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/

0:56 | Conspiracy theorist Alex Jones suffered a major blow in court this week, which could wind up costing the Infowars host a fortune. Ryan recaps developments in the defamation trail launched by parents whose child died in the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting in 2012. 12:25 | Just a few days ago, Robyn Doolittle sat down with "E.M.," the woman who filed a lawsuit against Hockey Canada over an alleged group sexual assault by some members of Canada’s world junior hockey team in 2018. The investigative journalist for the Globe and Mail updates us on this developing story, and talks about bigger-picture implications of the scandal plaguing both the national organization and Canada's favourite sport. READ ROBYN'S REPORTING: https://www.theglobeandmail.com/canada/article-woman-at-centre-of-hockey-canada-allegations-interviewed-by-police/ 43:15 | Prompted by Ryan's interview with former BC Premier Christy Clark on Wednesday, author Chris Turner explains why the "Ethical oil" argument failed to resonate over the past decade or so. What's the best way to advocate for Canadian energy, who should be doing it, and what should the key message be? We get into it with the author of "How To Be A Climate Optimist: Blueprints For A Better World". CHECK OUT TURNER'S BOOK: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.ca/books/668167/how-to-be-a-climate-optimist-by-chris-turner/9780735281974 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.

0:24 | The final CPC leadership debate goes tonight. Ryan starts the show with a bit of commentary and a reminder there's a new episode of Seriously for you to check out! CHECK OUT SERIOUSLY WITH SUPRIYA AND RYAN: https://seriouslypod.com/ 9:54 | At just 13 years old, Wyatt Sharpe has established himself as one of Canada's rising talents. The host of The Wyatt Sharpe Show returns to Real Talk to reflect on some of his recent high-profile interviews, and his impression as a future voter on the current state of political discourse. What a remarkable young man! SUBSCRIBE TO THE WYATT SHARPE SHOW: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEI-thoRF6_EGuhc_1eMQYw 33:28 | Ryan dips into the Real Talk mailbag, and reads a few emails from audience members Elske, Ron, and Grant. EMAIL THE SHOW: [email protected] 39:30 | How do you fix a "broken" health care system? Is Canada really as divided as everybody says it is? What do current leadership races say about the future of the UCP and CPC? Former BC Premier Christy Clark makes her Real Talk debut ahead of her keynote at the Let's Grow, Canada! conference in Edmonton on August 11. REGISTER TO ATTEND: https://www.centreiceconservatives.ca/post/the-power-of-the-centre 1:18:54 | Comedian Dane Cook, 50, recently proposed to his "long-term" girlfriend Kelsi Taylor, 23. Ryan and Johnny chat about the optics. 1:26:41 | There's a new tour in town! In this week's #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper, we learn about Jasper Food Tours. BOOK YOUR JASPER FOOD TOUR: https://jasperfoodtours.com/ LEARN MORE ABOUT JASPER: https://www.jasper.travel/realtalk/ 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.

0:20 | Alberta's top Dr. Deena Hinshaw took home a quarter-million dollar bonus in 2021, and not everybody's thrilled about it. Plus, MLA Leela Aheer jumped in front of an angry bull at the Strathmore Stampede, quite possibly saving a man's life. Ryan recaps the weekend's headlines to kick off the show. 16:08 | Canada's "lazy" foreign policy is a growing vulnerability, argues Dr. Bob Murray. The senior fellow at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute explains why he believes Canada's national security is at risk, and why losing a seat on the UN Security Council is about more than ego. READ DR. MURRAY'S OP/ED: https://thehub.ca/2022-07-22/robert-murray-canadas-lazy-foreign-policy-is-a-growing-vulnerability-as-global-threats-rise/ 38:28 | She literally grabbed a bull by the horns over the weekend. UCP leadership candidate Leela Aheer tells us what was going through her mind when she jumped a fence to stop a postentially-deadly attack at the Strathmore Stampede. Ryan asks her about the angsty theme of the leadership race to this point, Dr. Deena Hinshaw's bonus, vaccinations for kids under five, and the battle for board seats in her riding association of Chestermere-Strathmore. 1:04:05 | Art is helping the healing process at the Strathcona Community Hospital. We feature the Strathcona Community Hospital in this week's The Leading Edge presented by Leading Edge Physiotherapy. LIFE SHOULDN'T HURT: https://leadingedgephysio.com/ 1:06:30 | Environmental activists on Vancouver Island flattened the tires of more than 30 SUVs over the weekend. Ryan and John muse about what they'd do if they caught somebody in the act. 1:14:00 | A remarkable act of bravery by seven-year-old "Massiah" is our Positive Reflection this week. Thank you to everybody who submits good news stories to [email protected]. Positive Reflections is presented by Kuby Energy. GET YOUR FREE SOLAR QUOTE TODAY: https://kubyenergy.ca/

"To all the folks I've blocked before..." Ryan delivers an important reminder about social media in this week's edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services.

7:55 | Seriously podcast co-host Supriya Dwivedi takes a look at Jean Charest's attack ad aimed at Pierre Poilievre, and Elizabeth May's intent to take back the leadership of the federal Green Party. SUBSCRIBE TO SERIOUSLY: https://seriouslypod.com 35:12 | What does the future of conservative politics in Canada look like? Who speaks for "the middle" anymore? What are the short- and long-term implications of the CPC leadership race? Centre Ice Conservatives founder Rick Peterson, executive director Azim Jiwani, and author Tasha Kheiriddin join for this week's Real Talk Round Table. REGISTER FOR CENTRE ICE ON AUGUST 11: https://www.centreiceconservatives.ca/ CHECK OUT TASHA'S BOOK: https://therightpathbook.com/ 1:15:13 | Ryan and John debrief after the Real Talk Round Table, including the power behind the word "woke". 1:20:00 | "To all the folks I've blocked before..." Ryan delivers an important reminder about social media in this week's edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental Services. GET A QUOTE TODAY: https://localenvironmental.ca/

1:08 | For the first time in this UCP leadership race, Albertans had their first chance Wednesday night to hear from candidates vying to be the next Premier. Edmonton Journal reporter Ashley Joannou checks in from her office at the Alberta Legislature, and shares her observations from the Medicine Hat debate. 17:30 | Ryan reads some of your comments about Danielle Smith's proposed "health spending account" - $300 per person - and shares his thoughts about what could or should be covered as part of a more fulsome approach to government-funded public health care. 22:40 | We receive a ton of great emails to [email protected]. That includes notes from Barry and Phoebe, who both qualified for a Real Talk Email of the Month award with their takes on stepping off the soap box, addressing rape culture, and supporting health care workers who are "burnt to a crisp". NOTE: Our planned interviews with former BC Premier Christy Clark and journalist Brandi Morin will be rescheduled at their earliest availability. Sometimes, things happen and plans fall through...that's Real Life!

9:03 | Aaron Paquette is an award-winning author, artist, and the first Indigenous councillor in Edmonton's history. He discusses his involvement in the "Grandin mural" project years ago, and his experiences this week attending the Pope's apology in Maskwacis and mass at Commonwealth Stadium. Prepare for a thoughtful, challenging assessment of the "aftermath" of the papal visit. READ UP ON THE BACKGROUND OF CLR. PAQUETTE'S MURAL PROJECT: https://yegarts.tumblr.com/post/80708942561/walking-together-the-journey-of-aaron-paquette 41:59 | It seems everybody is talking about a horrific email sent from the (now former) president of Valbella Gourmet Foods to Canmore Pride organizers. Dr. Kristopher Wells explains why he believes the RCMP should get involved, and talks about the bigger-picture importance of Pride. Plus, the co-founder of Pride Tape shares his thoughts around the culture problem plaguing Hockey Canada, and the Alberta government's relatively slow action on a Monkeypox vaccine. SUPPORT PRIDE TAPE: https://pridetape.com/ LEARN MORE ABOUT THE 2022 PRIDE CUP: https://icedistrict.com/events/event/icedis-7470-pride-cup-2022-08-06 1:07:16 | Every Wednesday, we celebrate the beauty of Jasper National Park with #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. This week, we congratulate our friends at Marmot Basin on being named a Mountain Collective destination as one of the best ski destinations on the planet! We also hear from Real Talkers Brian and Laurie, who celebrated a very special wedding anniversary at one of Jasper's most magnificent spots! LEARN MORE ABOUT JASPER: https://www.jasper.travel/realtalk/