Real Talk Ryan Jespersen

2:20 | It's official: hockey fans get their first Battle of Alberta in 31 years! Ryan and Johnny kick off the show with their thoughts ahead of Game One on Wednesday. 8:39 | Emmy Award-winning talk host Charles Adler makes his bi-weekly appearance on Real Talk, sharing his thoughts on the horrific mass shooting in Buffalo, NY, the Conservative Party's leadership race, Jason Kenney's leadership review, and the legacy of David Milgaard, who passed away over the weekend. 47:02 | Canadians are sending millions of dollars worth of PPE and other emergency equipment to Ukraine via the organization Firefighter Aid Ukraine. We're joined live by Vitalii Hrytsko of Ukraine's State Emergency Service, and Edmonton firefighter Kevin Royle, project director at FAU. Learn more and donate: https://www.firefighteraidukraine.com/ 1:12:14 | This week's edition of Positive Reflections is personal for Ryan, who celebrates his long-time friend Declan - an optimistic, courageous 13 year old who just realized a major, long-time dream! Send us your Positive Reflection: [email protected] Positive Reflections is presented by Kuby Energy. https://kubyenergy.ca/

It's a grass roots political edition of Trash Talk, presented by Local Environmental, fuelled by your emails to [email protected]!

2:57 | Ryan starts the show with breaking news, as mourners at slain Al Jazeera journalist Shireen Abu Akleh's funeral are met with violence from Israeli defence forces. Plus, Elon Musk says his $44B Twitter purchase is "on hold": what does that mean moving forward? 11:49 | Veteran Alberta political correspondents Graham Thomson and Catherine Griwkowsky dig into the most important details of Jason Kenney's UCP leadership review, Brian Jean's presence at the Legislature, and a recent opinion from the Alberta Court of Appeal. Read Catherine's work: https://www.politicstoday.news/alberta-today/ Read Graham's work: https://ipolitics.ca/opinions/kenney-takes-a-victory-lap-while-the-race-is-still-underway 38:46 | The stars of The Strategists podcast join for their bi-annual Real Talk Round Table. Zain Velji, Corey Hogan, and Stephen Carter make for a wildly-entertaining (and informative) half hour analyzing the federal Conservative leadership race, Kenney's UCP leadership review, and NDP leader Jagmeet Singh being harassed in Peterborough. See The Strategists live on May 19: https://thestrategists.ca/products/the-strategists-live-in-edmonton 1:15:36 | It's a grass roots political edition of Trash Talk, presented by Local Environmental, fuelled by your emails to [email protected]!

Sometimes, there's a day that demands Real Talk go into overtime. This is one of those days. We cover the stories making headlines, and make sure you know what's going on "off the radar," too. 3:14 | Described as a "cultural phenomenon" related to the war in Ukraine, the Saint Javelin brand has quickly become recognized as a symbol of Ukrainian resistance to the Russian invasion. Ryan talks to founder and CEO Christian Borys just moments after he announced a partnership with the World Ukrainian Congress to fund non-lethal military equipment for Ukraine. Learn more: https://www.saintjavelin.com/ and https://www.ukrainianworldcongress.org/ 14:52 | Is Twitter set to become even nastier if Elon Musk's purchase goes through? Christopher Bouzy, founder of BotSentinel.com, explains the role bots and trolls play in poisoning public dialogue. 32:38 | Speaking of Twitter, our most recent Question of the Week presented by Y Station shows many Real Talkers are cynical (or at least concerned) about the future of the social media platform. Ryan reviews the results of our most recent survey, and tees up the current one (about SCOTUS Roe v. Wade). CHIME IN: https://ryanjespersen.com/question-of-the-week 38:18 | The killing of veteran Palestinian-American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh is described as "deliberate and targeted" by Al Jazeera, the outlet she represented for many years. We review what we know at this point, including reports from journalists who were near Abu Akleh when she was shot, and criticism around "whitewashed" reporting and response from western media outlets and elected representatives. 47:17 | How much do you know about the political maneuvering happening in your own backyard? Ryan connects with Alberta Mayors Cathy Heron, Janet Jabush, and Trina Jones for an update on a potential Alberta Provincial Police Service, EMS in crisis, and changes to the Municipal Government Act. Learn more about work being done by Alberta Municipalities: https://www.abmunis.ca/ 1:27:28 | Inspired by his conversation with the Mayors, Ryan shines light on a very personal Twitter thread from a BC-based family doctor, @drherrling. 1:31:09 | Hours after Conservative Party of Canada leadership candidates squared off in Edmonton, Ryan reviews highlights and themes of the official English language debate. What jumped out at you as you watched Wednesday's showdown? Send us an email: [email protected] 1:41:14 | Federal NDP leader Jagmeet Singh was targeted and harassed by self-identified "Freedom Convoy" supporters during a stop in Peterborough, ON. We take a look at public response to this heinous circumstance, including Mr. Singh's message to the public after the fact.

3:03 | Award-winning photojournalist Leah Hennel takes us into Alberta ICUs, ERs, and COVID wards via the stunning images in her new book, "Alone Together: A Pandemic Photo Essay". Check out more of Leah's work: https://leahhennelphotography.com/ Get your copy of the book: https://bookpublishers.ab.ca/titles/alone-together/ 18:24 | REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN for our Real Talk Golf Classic on June 23rd at The Ranch! Ryan shares a few details about the big day, which you won't want to miss! REGISTER: https://ryanjespersen.com/real-talk-golf-classic 21:21 | It's been three years since the Chuckegg Wildfire tore through more than 800,000 acres near High Level, AB. Mayor Crystal McAteer and Chief James Ahnassy of the Dene Tha' First Nation look back on May of 2019, and share how their communities have been working together ever since to address the challenges of living in such a remote, rural region. 43:30 | Should we de-extinct animals like the Woolly Mammoth? Should we be concerned insect populations are plummeting? Do mushrooms and mould actually rule the world? Anthropomania podcast hosts Jay Ingram and Niki Wilson look at nature through a human lens, and explain why an "empathetic world view" is so important. Subscribe: https://anthropomania.com/ 1:05:44 | This week's #MyJasper Memories celebrates Jasper local Naji Khouri, whose entire job is to ensure visitors to the region have the best-possible experience. Whether you're looking to chase summits or birdie putts, eat picnics or five-star spreads, or sleep under the stars or in the lap of luxury, Naji's got you covered! Check out more about his story (and amazing options to explore Jasper) here: https://www.jasper.travel/realtalk/

8:18 | National Observer columnist Sandy Garossino says it's time for "an adult conversation about abortion". She lays out exactly what that conversation needs to look like, including the role men need to play. Read Sandy's column here: https://www.nationalobserver.com/2022/05/07/opinion/lets-have-adult-conversation-about-abortion 34:10 | Ryan reviews the results of Monday's unofficial, unscientific Twitter poll on pandemic-related data collected from Canadians' cell phones, and privacy concerns around the common practice. Check out the final poll results: https://twitter.com/ryanjespersen/status/1523665964448899074?s=20&t=uxJhV43esR9uLarsLsk4NA 43:30 | It's one of the most powerful films you'll ever see. Love in the Time of Fentanyl screens at NorthwestFest on Friday, May 13. We catch up with filmmaker Colin Askey, and harm reduction workers Ronnie Grigg and Trey Helten. Get your tickets to see Love in the Time of Fentanyl at NorthwestFest: https://www.northwestfest.ca/films-2022-backend/love-in-the-time-of-fentanyl 1:21:26 | Every Tuesday, we feature innovators and difference makers in The Leading Edge presented by Leading Edge Physio. This week, it's Priority Printing in the spotlight! https://leadingedgephysio.com/

3:59 | Ryan kicks off the week with a couple stories making news over the past couple of days, including Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's surprise trip to Ukraine with Deputy PM Chrystia Freeland and Minister of Foreign Affairs Mélanie Joly. We also take a look at the "BlueDot" story, and ask how you feel about being anonymously tracked to contribute to public health data. 17:04 | Poultry producers across North America are being hammered by Avian Flu, with tens of millions of birds culled, including more than 900,000 in Alberta alone. Lisa Bishop-Spencer of the Chicken Farmers of Canada joins to explain how Avian Influenza is spreading across different provinces, what it means for farmers and consumers, and how controversial culling methods in the US are impacting conversations in Canada. 41:07 | Continuing our conversation around ethics and Agriculture, farming couple Jeff and Coralee Nonay explain what it means to operate a "family farm" these days, including facing criticism from animal rights advocates. Let us know what you think about the issue: [email protected] 1:19:25 | This week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy highlights a "Take what you need" community pantry initiated by a young guy named Hunter. Plus, we focus on a fundraiser aimed at assisting Ukrainians. Learn more about it here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/yeg4ukraine

Ryan rolls out the best rants of the week, as submitted to [email protected]. Buckle up for another edition of Trash Talk, presented by Local Waste.

4:29 | Supriya Dwivedi breaks down last night's CPC Leadership Debate, highlighting her two key points. Per usual, Supriya pulls no punches in sharing her personal perspective on the SCOTUS Roe v. Wade story, and the impact its having on conversations in Canada. 36:40 | This week's Real Talk Round Table welcomes three of the brilliant professionals featured in Edify's Innovation issue. Dr. Lilly Pang talks about "The Poop Scoop" (using wastewater to glean COVID data), "Mr. Robot" Dr. Joseph Ross Mitchell explains how Artificial Intelligence is improving healthcare, and Dr. Mark Summers talks about "Carbon Burial" - how Alberta is managing its "poison" as renewable energy scales up. Check out Edify's Innovation issue: https://edifyedmonton.com/ Join us on May 11: https://tickets.edifyedmonton.com/innovation-event-2022/ 1:19:13 | Giddy up! Local Environmental presents another rowdy edition of Trash Talk! Submit your Trash Talk: [email protected]

11:02 | Athabasca University Master of Counselling student Karli Jahn just won AU's 3 Minute Thesis (3MT) competition with her research around weight stigma. She joins us to discuss the "pathological" way we view fat, and how stigma affects treatment outcomes in counselling. 32:04 and 58:05 | Ryan reads your emails about Avian Flu and abortion discussions on the show. 39:40 | New York Times best-selling author Angie Thomas takes us into the pages of "Concrete Rose," her follow-up to "The Hate U Give," which sold more than 3.5M copies. Angie talks about kickstarting conversations about racism, challenging her audience with perspectives outside their own, and the most powerful feedback she's ever received from a reader.

6:50 | Could a SCOTUS decision impact abortion access in Canada? Joyce Arthur of the Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada, Meghan Doherty of Action Canada for Sexual Health and Rights, and activist Robyn Schwarz, Ph.D. form a Real Talk Round Table on abortion rights. 39:58 | He brought the world the Ghostbusters theme song, but Ray Parker, Jr.'s career is about way more than that! The legendary singer/songwriter joins filmmaker Fran Strine for a Real Talk exclusive ahead of Opening Night at NorthwestFest. Real Talk is proud to be the presenting sponsor of "Who You Gonna Call?" on Friday, May 6 at 7pm MT at Metro Cinema. TICKETS: https://www.northwestfest.ca/ 57:27 | Where do Real Talkers land on Alberta Premier Jason Kenney's leadership review? We review the results of our most recent Get Real: Question of the Week presented by Y Station. ANSWER THIS WEEK'S QUESTION: https://ryanjespersen.com/question-of-the-week 1:10:13 | Hop on a hog for this week's edition of #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper, featuring the award-winning Jasper Motorcycle Tours! MORE: https://www.jasper.travel/realtalk/

2:52 | Ryan opens the show by taking a look at Politico's exclusive report the Supreme Court of the United States has voted to strike down the landmark Roe v. Wade decision. 15:09 | Animal rights advocate and freelance journalist Jessica Scott-Reid gives her take on the Avian Flu outbreaks impacting poultry producers across North America, including the controversial cull of 5.3 million chickens at a facility in Iowa. 37:54 | Conservative MP Eric Duncan and Liberal MP Rob Oliphant share their personal connections to Canada's long-standing blood donation ban, and explain why politicians from virtually all parties support recent steps taken by Canadian Blood Services. But, do discriminatory policies remain in place? 49:45 | In this week's edition of The Leading Edge presented by Leading Edge Physio, we celebrate the business legacy of Unbelts founder Claire Theaker-Brown, who built a sustainable fashion brand offering living wages, stable hours, and upward mobility to employees in China and Canada.

6:07 | The Titan of Talk, Canadian media legend Charles Adler, joins for his bi-weekly appearance on Real Talk. He chimes in on "Woodstock for the Witless," the rally in Ottawa over the weekend, along with Canada lifting its blood ban, the Archbishop of Canterbury's recent apology for residential schools, and Jean Charest's CPC leadership campaign. 37:31 | Canada must do more to ensure people in developing nations have access to COVID-19 vaccines. That's the message Dr. Madhu Pai intended to deliver to the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Development last week. The McGill University professor and Canada Research Chair in Epidemiology and Global Health explains why his message was interrupted, why he thinks Canada hasn't taken international obligations seriously, and what he hopes human beings learn from the past two-plus years. Read Dr. Pai's blog post here: https://microbiologycommunity.nature.com/posts/canada-should-support-vaccine-self-sufficiency 1:02:55 | In a special edition of Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy, Ryan checks in with Kaleo Collective founder Layna Haley. Demand is way up for resources for single moms, including their annual "Love You Mama" Mothers Day event. Donate to Kaleo Collective here: https://kaleocollective.ca/

#TrashTalk | Ryan reads a revved up email from a Real Talker about what is really bothering them this week. Presented by Local Environmental.

10:18 | Supriya Dwivedi makes her regular Friday appearance, and digs into her Op/Ed published in the Globe & Mail about Elon Musk, Twitter, and what "free speech" really means. Supriya and Ryan get into Jean Charest's climate plan, Doug Ford's budget ahead of the Ontario election, and how climate change is creating a new age of infectious dangers. 45:14 | Jean Charest goes one-on-one with Ryan as his cross-country Conservative Party leadership campaign continues. The former federal Environment Minister explains how he believes his climate plan maintains credibility despite dropping a consumer tax, details what he'd say to demonstrators arriving in Ottawa this weekend, and takes your questions about the housing crisis, $10/day child care, and legalizing all drugs. 1:13:39 | It's the end of our work week, which means another lively edition of Trash Talk!

Ryan's back in our home studio after a couple days in Jasper, and shares a few highlights from the trip around 1:15:41. 13:13 | Vitor Marciano's been involved in conservative politics across Canada for more than twenty years. The former National Policy Chair for the federal Conservatives is now volunteering as MLA Brian Jean's spokesperson. Vitor takes us behind the scenes of the UCP, and answers some direct questions about Jason Kenney's leadership review, Jean's future with the party, and what it'll take for the provincial Conservatives to win re-election in 2023. 43:25 | In her high school yearbook, Anita Cardinal-Stewart wrote she wanted to be a lawyer when she "grew up". At 17, she finished high school via correspondence, even going into labour while studying for her BIO 30 exams. Her goal of being a lawyer seemed virtually impossible. Cut to present day, she's just earned her Juris Doctor at the University of Alberta, and has been named the inaugural winner of the Justice Abella Award. A fierce advocate of Indigenous survivors of the Sixties Scoop and victims of forced sterilization, Anita shares what motivates her most today, and how her perspective has changed over the years.

2:54 | United Conservative MLA Leela Aheer gives her personal perspective on how government can combat systemic racism, on the heels of Ryan's interview with NDP MLA David Shepherd earlier this week. We get into "calls from inside the house" criticizing Premier Jason Kenney's leadership (in the context of his leadership review), the Brian Jean Factor, Alberta's curriculum review, and Leela's member statement yesterday on Female Genital Mutilation. 25:33 | It's a special edition of #MyJasper Memories live from Jasper, as Ryan checks in with Tahlon Sweenie, Director of Golf Operations at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge ahead of opening day at the course - May 7. Book your golf here: https://www.fairmont.com/jasper/golf/the-fairmont-jasper-park-lodge-golf/ #MyJasper Memories is presented by Tourism Jasper. Check out some of the highlights Jasper has to offer here: https://www.jasper.travel/realtalk/ 37:47 | What does Elon Musk's $44B Twitter takeover mean for users of the social media site? What are some of the potential gains and losses, and some of the stories flying under the radar? Are conversations about "free speech" on point, as the public dissects this story? Dr. Aimée Morrison of the University of Waterloo, and social media strategist Beverley Theresa lay it out.

Real Talk is on the road! Ryan hosts from the beautiful Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge in Jasper, AB, where he's speaking at the Community Leaders Camp: https://13waysinc.com/camp/ 5:55 | Doug Griffiths, former Progressive Conservative minister Doug Griffiths, founding CEO of 13 Ways, Inc., talks about the state of present-day conservatism in Alberta, Jason Kenney's leadership review, and 13 pathways to success (the follow-up to Doug's book, "13 Ways To Kill Your Community". https://13waysinc.com/ 28:34 | Why are we ignoring engineers when it comes to COVID mitigation strategies? Matthew Oliver, P.Eng. explains what led to his Twitter thread earlier this week, taking aim at medical doctors and researchers mocking his colleagues working in ventilation and filtration. Thread: https://twitter.com/sameo416/status/1518418260349177856?s=20&t=BXbC3tlPgzBno5qUrC2KkQ 43:14 | Author, economist, and political scientist Chris Blattman takes us into his new book, "Why We Fight: The Roots of War and the Paths to Peace". The University of Chicago professor analyzes what's fuelling Putin's war in Ukraine, how to interrupt the evolution of conflict into war, and why NHL players' birth cities have a correlation to how violent they are on the ice. https://chrisblattman.com/why-we-fight/ 59:26 | In this week's The Leading Edge presented by Leading Edge Physio, we highlight an innovative new program at MacEwan University. The first of its kind in Canada, The Distinguished Visiting Artist in Country Music program aims to launch aspiring performers into a career in country music. https://www.macewan.ca/campus-life/news/2022/04/news-dvacm-launch-22/

4:06 | Ryan and John take a look at Monday's breaking news: Elon Musk's reported $43B purchase of Twitter. Will his (rumoured) ownership of the social media platform impact how (or if) you continue to use it? The conversation continues later in the show at 1:00:51. 9:48 | A proposed Anti-Racism Act (Bill 204) fell at the Alberta Legislature, meaning at least for now, government departments will continue to not track race-based data. We talk to the MLA behind the private members bill, Edmonton-City Centre's David Shepherd, along with Dunia Nur of the African-Canadian Civic Engagement Council. 38:25 | It's a big day for Andrew Walker, as the longtime Canadian sports broadcaster launches his new show The Hedge - https://thehedgepod.com/. We talk to Walks about his move from "mainstream media" to an independent podcast, and the significance of betting and fantasy to today's sports fan. 1:06:40 | This week's Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy features a 15-year-old who found thousands of dollars in a stolen safe, and tracked down the rightful owner. Now that's a story that'll restore your faith in humanity! Send us your Positive Reflection: [email protected]

#TrashTalk | It's Friday, so brace for another rowdy edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental!

2:53 | Emmy-winning comedian Paul Mecurio gets the show started with a laugh. The two-time COVID sufferer talks about isolating in NYC, and helping his 94-year-old Mom sort through her stuff. See Paul at The Comic Strip April 22 & 23: https://wem.thecomicstrip.ca/ 13:03 | Supriya Dwivedi makes her weekly Friday appearance, tackling Dr. Leslyn Lewis' claim that Bill Gates is undermining Canadian sovereignty, Pierre Poilievre's double standard (?) on Canada's housing crisis, and Edmonton as a model for affordable housing. 41:58 | The Alberta Technology Symposium just wrapped in Calgary, and we welcome two industry leaders to this week's Real Talk Round Table. Koleya Karringten, Executive Director of the Canadian Blockchain Consortium, and Adam O'Brien, CEO of Bitcoin Well, explore Alberta's tech ecosystem, including how to attract new investment and support innovation hubs. 1:13:10 | It's Friday, which means another edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental. Submit your Trash Talk to [email protected]!

4:20 | On the eve of Earth Day, researchers Jared Gonet, Dr. Jeffrey Farner, and Dr. Evan Davies take us into the work they're doing to protect the planet. The conversation covers incorporating Indigenous worldviews with more "western" ideas of conservation, microplastics and nanoplastics in the world's water supply, and computer models informing our understanding of future water demand. 34:20 | A group of engaged citizens continues to fight a proposed solar farm in Edmonton's river valley. Kristine Kowalchuk, chair of the Edmonton River Valley Conservation Coalition, explains why they believe the proposed location is a bad fit, and what she wants the public to do about it. Learn more: https://www.ervcc.com/ 43:39 | Ukraine's defence ministry is using Clearview AI facial recognition to identify Russian soldiers on the battlefield, at checkpoints, and elsewhere. Ethically Aligned AI CEO Katrina Ingram explains why the technology is so controversial, and how it does (or will) impact people around the world.

2:50 | Professional poet and spoken word artist Laureate Wakefield Brewster joins us a week after he was introduced to Calgary City Council as the city's sixth Poet Laureate. He tells us when he first knew he perceived the world as an artist would, what it means to "infiltrate" society, and how he's approaching his two-year term. 27:35 | Blaise Boehmer, former Director of Communications for Alberta Premier Jason Kenney, shares his take on Kenney's leadership review, the Brian Jean factor, record insurance profits in Alberta, the UCP approach to harm reduction, and other political stories making news across the province. 58:38 | In this week's edition of #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper, we show off a couple ways you can get high up into the alpine in Jasper National Park. Marmot Basin still offers world class mountain riding until closing day on May 1, and the Jasper SkyTram just opened for the season! Learn more here: https://www.jasper.travel/realtalk/

4:50 | Earlier this month, Megan Wright publicly left what she says was her "dream job" with Leduc Fire Services. In front of Leduc city councillors, she cited allegations of harassment and sexual misconduct throughout her career. Megan joins Ryan to explain what led to her resignation, and how the mental health implications of a career in first response contributed to her experience. 45:20 | In this week's edition of The Leading Edge presented by Leading Edge Physiotherapy, we shine the spotlight on Food for Thought, a family-run non-profit providing hot meals for school children that might otherwise go hungry. Learn more here: https://www.foodforthoughtedmonton.com/ 47:19 | His career as a fashion-turned-nature photographer has earned David Liittschwager accolades around the world. The National Geographic legend tells us why he specifically chose three elusive sea creatures for his stunning new book, "Octopus, Seahorse, Jellyfish". (A warm welcome to our audience members who typically download the Real Talk podcast, but are here to see David's mesmerizing photos!) 1:13:09 | The first show of every week, Kuby Energy presents Positive Reflections. This week, we highlight the remarkable story of Gabriel Clark, a 12-year-old woodworker whose Ukraine fundraiser smashed every goal, skyrocketing him to Instagram fame along the way!

#TrashTalk | It's Friday, so brace for another rowdy edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental!

9:13 | Political analyst (and lawyer and broadcaster) Supriya Dwivedi shares her take on Pierre Poilievre's big Alberta crowds, early campaign positions taken by Jean Charest, Patrick Brown, and Dr. Leslyn Lewis. Plus, lax COVID attitudes and the connection to Ontario's upcoming election, the rumoured federal "truck tax," and Elon Musk's quest to buy Twitter. 38:49 | We celebrate unsung healthcare heroes in this week's Real Talk Round Table. Medical Laboratory Technologists Shawna Gawreluck, Ahmed Mostafa, and Anne Halpin share about their "behind the biohazard doors" profession, and explain the impact COVID's made on the work they do. 1:11:59 | It's Friday, which means time for a (curiously somewhat family-friendly) edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental! Submit your Trash Talk to [email protected]

7:47 | How do you find a therapist that's a good fit? Registered clinical counsellor Megan Jespersen (yes, she's Ryan's sister!) explains how you can tell if you'd benefit from therapy, how to choose the right counsellor, and how to tell if the sessions are effective or not. Megan discusses the evolution of stigma around counselling, the growth of specific specialties (ie - religious trauma), and what "making space" means to her. 40:35 | We're staring down a sixth (!) wave of COVID-19, and everybody's got questions. How contagious is this new subvariant? How necessary is a fourth dose of the vaccine? Should we cancel gatherings for Easter, Passover, or Ramadan? Drs. Lynora Saxinger and Darren Markland take your questions, and share their (very candid) personal thoughts as we enter the third year of the pandemic.

4:36 | Max Fawcett, lead columnist for Canada's National Observer, responds to Ryan's Tuesday interview with David Knight Legg about Canadian energy and Russia's war in Ukraine. The former editor of Alberta Oil magazine digs into Canada's role in lowering global emissions, the politics of international petroleum markets, and the "coal-powered" criticism of electric vehicles (EVs). 34:08 | Beloved former news anchor, talk radio host, and author Lynda Steele joins from Vancouver, where she's just launched a new weekly column at theorca.ca. Lynda shares her thoughts on Canada's skyrocketing cost of living, in particular on the West coast, and gets personal about her parents' journeys with Alzheimer's disease. 1:15:45 | It's Wednesday, which means another visit to the mountains via #MyJasper Memories presented by Tourism Jasper. Get up to speed on some exciting events touching down in Jasper National Park over the next couple weeks, including the Jasper Half Marathon and the Uplift! Jasper Mural Festival. Find more details at jasper.travel/realtalk.

4:23 | David Knight Legg, founding CEO of Invest Alberta, lays out his theory of the "real" reason Vladimir Putin invaded Ukraine. Legg argues Canadian interests need to better assert themselves in the global energy trade. Plus, the former Principal Advisor to Alberta Premier Jason Kenney explains how he would advise Kenney through his current leadership review. 39:26 | He's an Emmy Award winner, an RTDNA Lifetime Achievement Award winner, and one of the most talented talk radio hosts the world has ever seen. The legendary Charles Adler joins Ryan for an extended conversation; his first on-air interview since leaving his nationally-syndicated radio show nearly a year ago. Don't miss Chuck's takes on the war in Ukraine (including how his family's history during WWII shapes his present-day perspective), Kenney's leadership review, the CPC leadership race, and life away from the AM dial.

3:29 | On the heels of Alberta Premier Jason Kenney's address to party members over the weekend in Red Deer, UCP founding president Erika Barootes and political scientist Dr. Duane Bratt debate whether or not Kenney will survive his leadership review, and the implications either way. Plus, we evaluate the early stages of the federal Conservative leadership race. 42:56 | Ryan and producer John Hicks review the weekend's top stories, including how inflation is impacting payouts from the Tooth Fairy, NBA star Jrue Holiday's 8-second shift that earned him $255,000, and Will Smith's ten-year Oscars ban. 56:21 | In this week's edition of Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy, we learn why so many Ukrainians are getting married in the midst of a terrible war, and see a truly heart-warming moment in amateur sport. Send us your Positive Reflections! Email us anytime at [email protected]

#TrashTalk | It's Friday, so brace for another rowdy edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental!

28:18 | The federal government's 2022 budget is supposed to help Canadians with the skyrocketing cost of living. Did it? Political strategist Sarah Biggs and economist/journalist Erica Ifill share their takes on the Liberal's fiscal plan. 53:56 | Two years into a pandemic, how do we rebuild, reinvigorate, and reconnect our communities? Puneeta McBryan and Lisa Holmes share their thoughts and experiences, including decentralizing community building, and encouraging and enabling non-traditional leadership. Learn more about the first-ever Community Leaders Camp, April 25-28 in Jasper, AB: https://13waysinc.com/camp/ 1:19:55 | Buckle up for another lively edition of Trash Talk, presented by Local Environmental!

3:22 | Ryan shares his thoughts on Real Talk's recent break, including details on the work being done behind the scenes to address the events of March 17 and 18. 21:58 | Journalist Brandi Morin, just back from the Vatican, shares her observations around Pope Francis' apology for the Catholic Church's role in residential schools, and what it means for Reconciliation in Canada.

I didn't stand up for what is right today. I'm going to do better in the future.

#TrashTalk | It's Friday, so brace for another rowdy edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental!

2:18 | Ryan and Sarah follow up on Thursday's debate. 19:42 | Dalhousie University professor Dr. David Black tees up sports angles on Russia's attack on Ukraine. Are international sports sanctions effective in impacting foreign policy? Should Russian athletes be held accountable by fans for past support of Vladimir Putin? How much courage are Russian athletes showing, speaking out against Putin's war? 41:32 | National political columnists Supriya Dwivedi and Brian Lilley form this week's Real Talk Round Table. On the docket: Canada's involvement in Ukraine, the CPC leadership race, and personal and policy approaches to this stage of the pandemic. 1:17:50 | Plus, it's Friday, so brace for another rowdy edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Environmental!

12:20 | Registered psychologist Dr. Angela Grace and curriculum experts Dr. Carla Peck and Dr. Dwayne Donald discuss the Alberta government increased funding for charter schools and delaying new math and English curriculums for Grades 4-6 until next year, while moving ahead with the updated curriculum for students in kindergarten to Grade 3 starting September 2022. 49:59 | Author of All Made Up: The Power and Pitfalls of Beauty Culture, from Cleopatra to Kim Kardashian, Rae Nudson unpacks the backlash against Kim Kardashian's "work hard" business advice for women. 59:38 | Things get heated! Jespo and Hoyles go toe-to-toe on issues that matter to them including social media celebrities and what responsibilities they, if any, do and don't have.

1:55 | Ryan unpacks Brian Jean's landslide win in the Fort McMurray-Lac La Biche byelection, with 63% of the vote. 15:39 | Associate Professor of Law at the University of Alberta, Dr. Ubaka Ogbogu on facing ongoing harassment and threats after Alberta's Premier singled him out calling him "deranged" and a "NDP law professor" on social media. He details if he's going to take legal action against Jason Kenney. 40:32 | #MyJasper Memories | Ryan offers a round-up of activities and places in Jasper National Park, including: the new wilderness-inspired accommodation, the Forest Park Hotel, a ski for free deal, and the only gay ski week in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper Pride. Presented by Tourism Jasper. 43:34 | Energy journalist Markham Hislop on the rapid adoption of renewable energy around the world and global automakers shifting to electric, without Alberta's government keeping pace with the trends. 1:01:53 | Newly elected Brian Jean shares about easily winning the Fort McMurray-Lac La Biche byelection on Tuesday night and his focus to have Kenney removed as leader of the United Conservative Party.

2:29 | Canada’s Ambassador to the United Nations Bob Rae discusses the nation's role on the world stage and how our country can and should deal with Russia's aggression towards Ukraine. 27:43 | Edmonton-based photographer Dale MacMillan joins us live from Poland where he's working with the humanitarian group, Medair, to help refugees from Russia-invaded Ukraine. 43:43 | Criminal defense lawyer Kyla Lee on the trucker involved in the deadly Humboldt Broncos' bus crash, Jaskirat Sidhu, and the rejection of his bid to stay in Canada after completing his sentence. 1:07:57 | #TheLeadingEdge | Ryan shares about Pride Tape, the rainbow-coloured athletic tape designed to show support for LGBTQ players and inclusion through sport. Presented by Leading Edge Physiotherapy.

4:04 | Calgary Beltline resident Meaghan Walsh on weekly “freedom” demonstrations taking over 17th Avenue in south-central Calgary on Saturday afternoons, why counter-protestors are starting to show up, and the local police's uneven response to the different sides. 18:15 | Computer scientist Dr. Ryan Henry on the establishment of the National Cybersecurity Consortium, and the need for it as cyber warfare is being waged by Russia, and other actors. 47:56 | Rural Alberta physician Dr. Brad Martin shares about becoming quite the grump during the pandemic and how he found a way passed it with the help of his family and Real Talk. 61:10 |#QuestionoftheWeek | Ryan reviews Real Talkers' takes on the most recent survey about current affairs, including International Women's Day, Russia invading Ukraine, and Alberta removing the gas tax. Presented by Y Station. #PositiveReflections | A look at the positive side of life. Presented by Kuby Energy.

4:25 | Ryan and the team discuss a new poll on the Conservative leadership race. It found Pierre Poilievre is the favourite amongst Conservative voters to lead the federal party. 11:06 | Dr. Andy Knight on what the Coutts border blockade, January 6th insurrection, and Russia's invasion of Ukraine indicates there is a new world order in the making. 40:26 | #RealTalkRoundTable | Economist Dr. Kent Fellows and journalist Tim Querengesser discuss high oil prices and their impacts on Canadians' bottom-lines, Alberta government's coffers, and the auto industry. #TrashTalk | Ryan let's it rip on Real Talker emails about what's pissing 'em off this week. Presented by Local Environmental.

#TrashTalk | Ryan lets it rip on Real Talker emails about what's pissing 'em off this week. Presented by Local Environmental.

4:54 | Ryan and editorial producer Sarah Hoyles discuss Canada Border Services Agency rejecting trucker driver Jaskirat Singh Sidhu's bid to stay in Canada after serving his sentence for his involvement in crash that killed 16 members of the Humboldt Broncos hockey team. 20:10 | Dr. David Novog explains what is at stake as Russian forces take control of nuclear power plants in Ukraine and what it means for the safety of the invaded country, the region, and global community. 38:31 | Conservative commentator Tasha Kheiriddin on the expanding federal leadership race, why she's endorsing Jean Charest, and what the future could hold for the Party.

2:30 | Ryan ponders what the new Saturday morning call-in radio show featuring the Alberta Premier will sound like, who is paying for it, and how it will be used to further Jason Kenney's leadership. 15:01 | McMaster University economist Dr. Adam Lavecchia explains what The Bank of Canada interest rate increase means for Canadians' every day lives and expenses. 33:15 | Question of the Week | Ryan reviews Real Talkers thoughts about Russia's invasion of the sovereign country, Ukraine. 39:49 | Science journalist David McRaney shares about his investigation of why some people never change their minds while others do in an instant. #MyJasper Memories | Ryan announces murals are coming to Jasper for the first-ever UpLift! Jasper Mural Festival. Street artists from across Canada will be in the mountain town on April 23-May 8, 2022 adding some colour and style to many of Jasper's walls, alleyways, and buildings. Plus, Ryan shares a Real Talker's story about misadventure while hiking in the National Park. Presented by Tourism Jasper

2:17 | Ryan and Sarah review the news headlines including Alberta's Premier Jason Kenney having a block party on Twitter where he stopped many Albertans from accessing his account. 11:50 | Wilfrid Laurier University's Dr. Izabela Steflja on how war affects women from the battlefield to the home front, and their ability to commit war crimes. 32:46 | #TheLeadingEdge | The first centre of its kind in Canada, The Zebra Centre, supports kids who have experienced abuse, using a continuum of multi-disciplinary resources. Presented by Leading Edge Physio. 34:45 | An International Women's Day discussion about what defines womanhood, with transgender advocate Marni Panas, breast cancer survivor Christina Belding, and childless woman expert Melanie Notkin.

11:58 | McGill University political scientist, Dr. Aaron Erlich on the disinformation campaigns waged by Russia to control its citizens and reinforce the illegal invasion of Ukraine. 39:36 | The creator of Little Mosque on the Prairie and author of the new book, Jameela Green Ruins Everything, Zarqa Nawaz discusses how the "freedom convoy", and now Putin, are making Muslims look good. 1:17:50 | #PositiveReflections | Ryan shares about kind acts in the world to get the week started on a lighter note. Presented by Kuby Energy.

#TrashTalk | Ryan unleashes the wrath of Real Talkers who have written in to share what's ticking them off this week. Presented by Local Environmental.

6:46 | Ryan chimes in on Jason Kenney dragging the Office of the Premier through the mud by attacking Albertans on social media. 16:27 | The Canada Research Chair in Climate Change and Health Dr. Sherilee Harper shares about contributing to the new UN report on Climate Change and the stark warnings it contains. 41:48 | A discussion about how to talk to kids about war and other important but challenging topics. Ryan is joined by psychologists Dr. Jacqueline P. Leighton, Dr. Lynette Shultz, and Dr. Elsie Lobo. 1:23:53 | #TrashTalk | Ryan unleashes the wrath of Real Talkers who have written in to share what's ticking them off this week. Presented by Local Environmental. Plus, a special goodbye to technical producer, Sam Brooks, as he's moving on from Real Talk.

4:02 | Activist Bashir Mohamed and first-term Edmonton city councilor Michael Janz discuss being on an alleged list of critics kept by local police and what it means for anyone who may question law enforcement in Alberta's capital city. The Edmonton Police Service declined to be interviewed and the Edmonton Police Association has not responded to our requests. 32:37 | #QuestionoftheWeek | Ryan reviews the results from our latest survey, focusing on "freedom" convoys and illegal occupations across Canada. Presented by Y Station. 36:35 | A conversation about eat, sleep, and exercise, how each affects one another, and overall health. Ryan welcomed sleep scientist Dr. Jonathan Charest, registered dietitian Heather Reid, and personal trainer Graham Doody.

7:40 | A review of the latest news, including the 169 potential graves uncovered at the former site of St. Bernard’s Indian Residential School, 370 kilometres northwest of Edmonton. Plus, the Alberta government's cabinet shuffle and plans to unilaterally amend the Municipal Government Act to prevent municipalities like Edmonton from implementing their own health measures including a mask mandate. 19:45 | Ukrainian Canadian Congress' Orysia Boychuk and Ukrainian National Federation president Jurij Klufas on the invasion of Ukraine by Russia, Canada's response, and how Ukrainian Canadians are coping. 42:42 | Captain Coby, aka Coby Perry, shares about building a massive following online for speaking his mind about the “Freedom” Convoy, Coutts blockade and other current events, on TikTok and other social media platforms. 1:12:35 | #MyJasper Memories | No surprise here...Jasper is one of Top 30 national parks in the world, according to Outside Magazine. The Real Talk team remsninnce about some of their favourite spots in Jasper National Park. Presented by Tourism Jasper.