Real Talk Ryan Jespersen

Industries change quickly, and skill sets can become obsolete. Add a pandemic on top, and it's fair to say employees and employers face an entirely different reality than they did a year or so ago. Deloitte's National Workforce Transformation Leader Kathy Woods joins for an informative (and hilarious) look at how people of all ages can be "future ready". Twenty or so years ago, they all collaborated on the University of Alberta's official student newspaper - The Gateway. This past year, nearly thirty talented writers resolved to reconnect and collaborate on a reflection of middle age. The result is a powerful, hilarious, heart-wrenching book called "Midlife". Sarah Chan, Jhenifer Pabillano, Adam Rozenhart, Amanda Ash, Geoff Moysa, and Raymond Biesinger hang out for one of the more memorable (and moving) hours in Real Talk history. 24:06 - Kathy Woods 49:31 - Midlife part 1 with Sarah Chan, Jhenifer Pabillano and Adam Rozenhart 1:29:26 - Midlife part 2 with Amanda Ash, Geoff Moysa and Raymond Biesinger

We dig deeper into Ottawa's plan for affordable childcare with Federal Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Rural Economic Development Maryam Monsef. What happens if provinces like Alberta say "No" to federal funding based on strings attached? Grain farmer Allison Ammeter, chair of the Plant Protein Alliance of Alberta explains why the provincial government's cancellation of a paltry $250k commitment means the collapse of their organization. We get into the significant economic implications of global demand for plant proteins, and what it could mean for agricultural producers on the Prairies. It's Canadian Infertility Awareness Week, so we check in with Dr. Alda Ngo, Kristina Melia, and Linda Hoang. What new options exist for Canadians hoping to start a family, what are some of the most significant barriers they'll face, and what proactive steps can people take to improve their chances? Plus, we recap yesterday's interview with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, including childcare, travel restrictions, a looming federal election, and his strained relationship with Alberta Premier Jason Kenney. 14:08 - Minister Maryam Monsef 30:47 - Allison Ammeter 49:44 - Infertility Round Table

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau makes his Real Talk debut the day after releasing the first federal budget in two years. Trudeau makes his first public statement on Derek Chauvin's murder conviction in the death of George Floyd, then he and Ryan get into budget talk. They cover the Liberals' national child care plan, a Universal Basic Income, business subsidies (and when to cut them off), whether or not there'll be an election this year, coal mining in the Rockies, the two Michaels (Kovrig and Spavor) detained in China, international travel restrictions, Trudeau's strained relationship with Alberta Premier Jason Kenney, and 4/20.

On the heels of the Liberals' first federal budget in two years, we get into the numbers. Is this more of an election platform than a budget? Does it strike the right balance between investing in post-pandemic recovery and plotting a path back to balance? Jason Hatcher, Deirdre Mitchell-MacLean, and Semhar Tekeste dig into the details. Plus, it's April 20th - Happy 4/20! Our "Puff Puff Panel" - Jonas Jespersen, Lisa Campbell, Nathan Mison, and Akanksha Bhatnagar - sparks up conversation on the evolution of Canada's legal Cannabis industry, stigma that remains around Cannabis use, and where the trends are going in months and years to come. 33:10 - Budget 2021 Round Table 1:35:18- 4/20 Puff Puff Panel

Will Erin O'Toole's climate plan be enough to push the Conservative Party of Canada into government next federal election? Will support for carbon pricing be enough to convince swing voters? Will it alienate the base on the Prairies? Conservative strategist Melissa Caouette of Canadian Strategy Group gets into it. As China gets set to move forward with its digital yuan, there are questions around transparency, surveillance, prevalence, and potential impact on global currencies (most especially the US dollar). Pulitzer Prize-winning Wall Street Journal correspondent James T. Areddy digs into the details, and provides valuable insight into what makes the Chinese government tick. Plus, it's Monday, so our friends at Kuby Energy present another inspiring edition of Positive Reflections! 14:57 - Melissa Caouette 38:10 - James Areddy 2:20:15 - Positive Reflections

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.

With Grace Life churchgoers continuing to gather in "underground" fashion following the closure of their building by Alberta Health Services, Knox United Rev. Dr. Greg Glatz joins to explain why he called out the church in a scathing, open letter. As Albertans continue to demand their provincial government hit pause on problematic draft K-6 curriculum, University of Calgary's Dr. Yvonne Poitras Pratt, Alberta Teachers Association president Jason Schilling, and Edmonton Public School Board chair Trisha Estabrooks get into the nitty gritty of what's problematic, why, and what citizens can do about it. Plus, it's Friday, so buckle up for a supercharged edition of Trash Talk, presented by Local Waste! 11:02 - Rev. Dr. Greg Glatz 34:42 - Curriculum Round Table 1:46:33 - Trash Talk

"The West wants in" when it comes to meaningful investment from the federal government. With the Liberals' budget coming out on Monday, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities' Western Economic Solutions Taskforce (WEST) is honing in on specifics. Saskatoon Mayor Charlie Clark, Yorkton Councillor Randy Goulden, and Rural Municipalities of Alberta president Paul McLaughlin discuss the potential impact of expanding national trade corridors, improving rail safety, addressing costs facing Canadian farmers, and other proposals. Ask any rural resident or business owner in Canada: crime is often a very real and pervasive issue. Filmmaker Geoff Morrison, who just released season two of Farm Crime on CBC Gem, talks about some of the more remarkable stories and common sentiments he's seen. Ryan wraps up the show with a powerful follow-up to yesterday's discussion about Emily (and Colby) Cave. 20:51 - WEST panel 1:17:56 - Geoff Morrison

With Ottawa sending $6B to Air Canada (and other airlines looking for the same), what does this mean for the country's airline industry...and the millions of Canadians that endeavour to start travelling again ASAP? Are the federal Liberals really "nationalizing" Air Canada, and does this qualify as a "bailout"? Former Air Canada executive and business professor at McGill University, John Gradek, takes our coverage to new heights. (Sorry, we couldn't help ourselves.) It's hard to imagine a 45% tuition increase, but that's what future University of Alberta law students are looking at. Lawyer Amanda Hart-Dowhun and law students Denis Ram and Sarah Kreikle take us into their organized efforts to stop the increase, and explain why increased tuition might actually cost the University more than administrators realize. 21:55 - John Gradek 39:03 - Law School tuition panel

Professor Timothy Caulfield and Dr. Shazma Mithani fact check a viral video from "mental wealth coach" Kaylor Betts. Ryan debates "platforming," "de-platforming," and the premise behind what qualifies as "Real Talk". We get into your emails to [email protected], including commentary on Grace Life Church continuing to gather en masse in defiance of public health orders. With the price of Bitcoin surging again, and China unveiling its own digital currency, Bitcoin Well CEO Adam O'Brien checks in (and shows off his flamethrower...for real). 17:51 - Prof. Timothy Caulfield & Dr. Shazma Mithani 1:35:54 - Adam O'Brien

Ryan starts the show with commentary on Sunday's debacle at Grace Life Church. As demonstrators tore down fences erected by Alberta Health Services, where was the "rule of law" Premier Jason Kenney's called for in past? We open the show with another Real Talk Round Table: why are landowners forced to fund their own environmental studies on coal mining in the Rocky Mountains? What are researchers discovering, and what does the general public need to know? Dr. Brad Stelfox, Mandy Olsgard, and Colton Vessey continue our conversation. A recent survey commissioned by MNP shows 53% are within $200 of insolvency at any given moment. Personal finance educator and author Kelley Keehn has a few tips to keep you on the right track. Hundreds of people have donated to a fundraiser in honour of Rob White, who lost his life saving a dog on the North Saskatchewan River. Rob's wife Bobbi, his sons Strider and Alliance, and his best friend Chris Barrett share a few stores about the man described as "Father to a thousand people." Plus, it's Monday morning, so we read your inspirational messages for this week's Positive Reflections, presented by Kuby Energy! 17:24 - Coal Round Table 55:13 - Kelley Keehn 1:19:12 - The White family and Chris Barrett 1:57:19 - Positive Reflections

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.

How does a "social justice church" differ from other houses of worship? Shouldn't social justice be the driving force behind any religious community? Rev. Tyler Ho-Yin Sit's New City Church in Minneapolis has been featured in the New York Times and The Atlantic. He joins Ryan to discuss the intersection of Christianity and politics, Derek Chauvin standing trial for murdering George Floyd, and recent racism-fuelled violence targeting people of Asian descent. Singer/songwriter Corb Lund, biologist Katie Morrison, and consultant David Luff check back in to update Albertans on the coal file in this week's Real Talk Round Table. And, of course, it's Friday, so brace yourselves for an extra-spicy edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Waste! 12:41 - Rev. Tyler Ho-Yin Sit 41:00 - Coal Round Table 1:42:57 - Trash Talk

Through this pandemic, Canadians have become more familiar with their Chief Medical Officers of Health than ever before. How well do we understand their mandate? Where does their authority begin and end? What happens if elected officials ignore evidence-based advice? Former Alberta CMoH Dr. James Talbot pulls back the curtain, and evaluates the performance of Alberta's current CMoH Dr. Deena Hinshaw. Dr. Talbot also shares a couple stories of his own experience, including the move that ultimately led to his dismissal. Today is Yom HaShoah, otherwise known as Holocaust Remembrance Day. Stacey Leavitt-Wright, Dr. Colin Muscat, and Marnie Bondar gather for a powerful conversation about this horrific time in human history, and instances of anti-Semitism we see flaring up today. 12:36 - Dr. James Talbot 50:12 - Yom HaShoah Round Table

With a third wave of the pandemic (and another lockdown) upon us, how do we ensure this is the last time it happens? Toronto ER Dr. Kashif Pirzada lays out what it'll take to eliminate COVID-19 completely. As Alberta's Chief Medical Officer of Health faces fire for withholding details relating to a "concerning outbreak," Edson Mayor Kevin Zahara explains why information sharing is so important. Susan Wright, the lawyer and blogger behind Susan on the Soapbox, makes her Real Talk debut to discuss her recent column on "cruel" UCP policies, resistance, and hope. Athabasca University history professor Dr. Eric Strikwerda argues Alberta's draft curriculum will make the province the "laughing stock" of Canada, and points out some glaring examples of inaccuracies and omissions. Plus, it's our first show of the week, so we focus on some good news stories with "Positive Reflections" presented by Kuby Energy! 19:33 - Dr. Kashif Pirzada 52:44 - Mayor Kevin Zahara 1:15:38 - Susan Wright 1:42:45 - Dr. Eric Strikwerda 2:17:17 - Positive Reflections

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.

Not every Real Talk guest can segue effortlessly between Ramona Quimby, QAnon, and history's greatest TV shows...but Scaachi Koul can. The senior culture writer for Buzzfeed News joins from NYC, kicking off Friday's show. Research and innovation at the University of Alberta is on display, as we feature the winners from the annual "Three Minute Thesis (3MT)" competition. Real Talk about affordable child care continues with MLA Rakhi Pancholi, who lays out what an NDP government would do on the file. Plus, it's Friday, so buckle up for an especially-rowdy edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Waste! 8:12 - Scaachi Koul 39:39 - 3MT Round Table 1:15:47 - MLA Rakhi Pancholi 2:08:47 - Trash Talk

April 1st means most of Alberta's $25/day child care subsidies are done. Glengarry Child Care executive director Brad West explains what that means for the families at his facility, his staff, and his business. With Alberta headed toward a "third wave" of variant-heavy cases of COVID-19, Dr. Lynora Saxinger and Dr. Gosia Gasperowicz guide us through the stats, trends, and headlines we need to understand. Why is University of Regina professor Sean Tucker calling for a public inquiry into the Alberta government's handling of COVID-19 outbreaks at meat packing plants? Dr. Tucker takes us into the 600+ pages of documents he reviewed through his lens as a occupational health and safety expert. The Metis Nation of Alberta is calling for the government to re-do its draft K-6 curriculum. President Audrey Poitras explains why she calls it "another example of Alberta's continued colonial practice over Metis peoples." 17:01 - Brad West 38:01 - Dr. Lynora Saxinger & Dr. Gosia Gasperowicz 1:19:00 - Dr. Sean Tucker 1:34:39 - Audrey Poitras

How do we thrive in a complex world, with disaster all around us? "Meltdown" author Chris Clearfield lays it out for leaders and everyday folks. Alberta's doctors vote "no" to a negotiated deal with the government - what does it mean? Health law/policy expert Dr. Lorian Hardcastle checks in from the University of Calgary. What are the short- and long-term impacts of COVID-19 on children, and how do we need to respond? Children First Canada CEO Sara Austin joins for a powerful conversation. Plus, a ton of your emails about Alberta's draft curriculum for K-6 Social Studies. Real Talkers are riled up! 17:16 - Chris Clearfield 41:41 - Dr. Lorian Hardcastle 1:05:12 - Sara Austin

Why are so many people - both parents and educators - so upset with Alberta's Draft Social Studies K-6 Curriculum? Dr. Carla Peck and Dr. Dwayne Donald explain where they believe the new roadmap falls short, and why it "sets Alberta Social Studies back decades". What does "anti-racism" advocacy actually look like, and how can people be leaders on this front in their own communities? Amarjeet Sohi, Brooks Mayor Barry Morishita, and Jenelle Saskiw discuss a recent "life-changing" course at MacEwan University, and dig into important equity issues facing Canadians today. 11:08 - Dr. Carla Peck and Dr. Dwayne Donald 43:31 - Amarjeet Sohi, Mayor Barry Morishita, Jenelle Saskiw

We're back at it after a week away! Minister of Environment and Climate Change, the Hon. Jonathan Wilkinson, joins to discuss the Supreme Court of Canada's recent ruling against Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Ontario's challenge of the federal Carbon Tax. Economist Dr. Andrew Leach, one of the architects of former Alberta Premier Rachel Notley's climate plan, explains why he supports the provinces' challenge of Justin Trudeau's levy. Lawyer, researcher, and pundit Supriya Dwivedi gives her take on the SCoC's ruling, Conservative Party of Canada members saying "no" to bolstering party policy re: climate change, vaccine roll-out across the country, and Canadaland's recent report on Brian Lilley and Ivana Yelich. Plus, it's Monday, so Ryan rolls out a unique edition of Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy! 9:48 - Hon. Jonathan Wilkinson 39:37 - Dr. Andrew Leach 1:07:25 - Supriya Dwivedi 1:58:08 - Positive Reflections

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.

Targeted, racist expressions and attacks have increased against Canadians and Americans of Asian descent through the COVID-19 pandemic. The world watched in horror this week as a gunman took the lives of eight people, predominantly Asian women, in Atlanta, GA. UCal Berkeley cultural anthropologist Dr. Lok Siu, former PC MLA Teresa Woo-Paw, founder of Act2endracism, and researcher Rajah Maggay of ParityYEG and Political D.I.V.A.S. join for a candid and moving Real Talk Round Table about anti-Asian racism. Plus, it's Friday, so buckle up for another fiery edition of Trash Talk presented by Local Waste! 32:00 - Real Talk Round Table 1:46:00 - Trash Talk

Karen Gosbee's "glittering marriage" nearly ended her life. The author of "A Perfect Nightmare," now co-chair of Calgary's Mental Health and Addiction Community Strategy and Action Plan, joins Mayor Naheed Nenshi to explain how this new approach changes the landscape (and how it can work in cities around the world). Renowned climatologist and geophysicist Dr. Michael E. Mann, author of "The New Climate War," discusses what's new in The Fight to Take Back the Planet, and what it means for Canadians. Plus, Ryan gets into the Real Talk inbox, and reads your emails submitted to [email protected]. 5:17 - Mayor Naheed Nenshi & Karen Gosbee 38:08 - Dr. Michael E. Mann

As CEO of Invest Alberta, David Knight Legg's job is to attract investment to the province. Formerly Premier Jason Kenney's principal secretary, he's now tasked with finding ways to boost energy, agriculture, tourism, tech, and other sectors. He joins Ryan off the top of the show to explain what hasn't worked in past, and what he thinks will work now. Dr. Alexander Wong is an infectious disease specialist in one of Canada's hardest-hit COVID-19 regions: the province of Saskatchewan. He stays into overtime to discuss new variants, vaccine hesitancy, concerns around the Oxford AstraZeneca shot, social justice through a pandemic lens, and more. One of the first black, openly gay orchestral conductors in the world, Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser is used to being one of the "others". The star of the documentary Disruptor Conductor joins Ryan (his childhood friend!) for an entertaining, enlightening, powerful exploration of the power of music, and how he's ultimately changing lives. 6:37 - David Knight Legg 44:14 - Dr. Alexander Wong 1:39:58 - Daniel Bartholomew-Poyser

LGBTQ Catholics may not have been surprised by the Vatican's declaration that same-sex unions are a sin it cannot bless, but that doesn't mean the message didn't sting. Rev. Michael Coren, an Anglican cleric, columnist, and broadcaster, shares his response, including why he ultimately left the Catholicism. Jamie Manson, president of Catholics 4 Choice, and one of the few LGBTQ columnists in religious media through her time at the National Catholic Reporter, speaks to the advocacy work being done on this front. Ryan and Sam take on the story making headlines around the world — Alberta's "War Room" quarrelling with Netflix over the streaming giant's "Bigfoot Family" cartoon. 10:31 - Rev. Michael Coren 35:48 - Jamie Manson 1:09:08 - War Room vs. Netflix

It's been a year since the WHO declared COVID-19 to be a global pandemic, and people are tired. We've seen generosity and altrusm abound, but there are signs people are losing patience, too. VICE health and wellness journalist Katie Way joins from Brooklyn to reveal "Why Everyone Is Acting Like An Asshole Lately". With Premier Jason Kenney trailing Rachel Notley's NDP in several recent polls, Alberta's United Conservative Party will hold a leadership review at its 2022 AGM. So, why not 2021? Founding party president Erika Barootes shares her insight on the significance of the process, and her evaluation of Premier Kenney's leadership to this point. Plus, we review the results of our most recent (and super fun) Get Real: Question of the Week by Y Station, and bring you Positive Reflections, presented by Kuby Energy! 9:36 - Katie Way 33:55 - Erika Barootes 1:29:58 - Positive Reflections

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.

After Thursday's "ornery" start, Ryan welcomes Dr. Melanee Thomas and Dr. Lise Gotell to respond, and expand the conversation around bias on university campuses. Our long-anticipated "Solar Panel" features Dr. Sara Hastings-Simon, Heather MacKenzie, and Jake Kubiski, who take your questions on battery storage, cost barriers, government incentives, climate justice, and more. Plus, it's Friday, so buckle up for another rowdy edition of Trash Talk, presented by Local Waste! 6:07 - Dr. Melanee Thomas 24:28 - Dr. Lise Gotell 44:38 - Solar Panel 1:51:53 - Trash Talk

Dr. Seuss Enterprises announced six books deemed racist are going out of print, and their online asking price immediately jumped. What does this say? We talk to University of Central Arkansas philosophy professor Dr. Jacob Held, editor of "Dr. Seuss and Philosophy: Oh, the Thinks You Can Think!" Are universities in Canada inherently biased against conservatives? Trent University's Dr. Christopher Dummitt, University of Alberta's Dr. Jared Wesley, and investigative journalist Steven Zhou dig in. 16:30 - Dr. Jacob Held 40:46 - Bias on campuses panel

Ryan and Sam have some fun out of the gates, completing a light-hearted edition of the Real Talk Question of the Week, presented by Y Station. Family lawyers Jo-Anne Stark and Marcus Sixta talk divorce, child custody, and steps to eliminate stress through family court proceedings. Osmundsen Holdings CEO Kelly Thompson digs into his recent Twitter thread, explaining why United Conservative government policy is actually chasing international investment away from Alberta. 35:19 - Family law panel 1:41:31 - Kelly Thompson

She was so convinced Lethbridge Police officers were monitoring her movements, she filed a Freedom of Information request. What former Environment Minister Shannon Phillips discovered was a chilling trend. The NDP MLA from Lethbridge West joins us for an exclusive interview on her first suspicions, the implications of the surveillance, and what she wants to see done about it. On the heels of International Women's Day, Drs. Sandra Davidge, Colleen Norris, and Jane Schultz explain why women are neglected under our current healthcare model (starting with research), and which specific issues demand more attention and action. 3:56 - MLA Shannon Phillips 40:15 - Women's Health panel

Happy International Women's Day! Emmy Award-winning ESPN host/reporter Jen Lada joins us from Milwaukee to share insights on her double-duty job, covering college football and hosting a morning radio show. Entrepreneurs, innovators, and investors Shelley Kuipers, Rhiannon Davies, and Amanda Hall form a Real Talk Round Table you won't want to miss. We cover financial feminism, funding gaps for women, global trends in wealth allocation, and many other important focal points. Scarlet Bjornson, founder of No Woman Without, explains how "period poverty" got on her radar, and why she went beyond making a simple donation. Plus, it's Monday, so we start another week off on the right foot with Positive Reflections, presented by Kuby Energy! 7:25 - Jen Lada 50:10 - Women Investors Panel 1:29:55 - Scarlet Bjornson 2:01:12 - Positive Reflections

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.

Between vaccines and new variants and businesses re-opening and health experts sounding alarms, it can be tough for the average person to know how to feel about proper COVID protocols. Dr. Gosia Gasperowicz, a developmental biologist, spells out what the numbers say, and describes a road to "COVID Zero". They're women who've held elected office, and decided to leave on their own terms. Our Real Talk Friday Round Table features a fantastic trio: author and former MP Celina Caesar-Chavannes, Calgary Councillor Druh Farrell, and Edmonton Public School Trustee Bridget Stirling. You'll want to watch every minute of why they decided to move on, where they're going, and what's driving their journey. Plus, buckle up for another rowdy edition of Trash Talk, presented by Local Waste! 12:06 - Dr. Gosia Gasperowicz 45:19 - Women Leaving Politics Round Table 1:47:01 - Trash Talk

For years, researchers have drawn a line from oil sands activity to recurring rare forms of cancer in Fort Chipewyan and Fort McKay. Athabasca Chipewyan First Nation Chief Allan Adam, whistleblower Dr. John O'Connor, and James Turk from Ryerson University's Centre for Free Expression explain why they think provincial and federal governments haven't taken this health threat seriously. How much do you know about psychedelics? How could Psilocybin ("magic mushrooms"), Ayahuasca, and other approaches assist in effective treatments, including for mental health? Psychiatrist Dr. Peter Silverstone, Jazmin Pirozek of the Canadian Psychedelic Association, and journalist Ryan Hook explore what could be a game-changing approach. 6:11 - Cancer Whistleblower Panel 37:52 - Psychedelics Panel

What on earth are NFTs, and why are collectors paying millions of dollars for ten-second digital video clips? Reuters finance journalist Elizabeth Howcroft joins us from London to get into her recent feature on art collector Pablo Rodriguez-Fraile. Is the entire Christian community getting a bad rap as select churches continue to defy public health orders? Pastor Greg Hochhalter gets into how they've manage this pandemic year at Sherwood Park Alliance Church, and describes how his congregation has gathered in community without gathering in person. Mike Cameron experienced the worst kind of tragedy when his girlfriend was murdered by her ex-partner. The author of "Becoming a Better Man" takes on emotional vulnerability, "toxic masculinity," and choosing creativity over judgement, in what proved to be one of the most powerful interviews we've seen yet on the show. 41:01 - Elizabeth Howcroft 1:00:39 - Pastor Greg Hochhalter 1:42:57 - Mike Cameron

Why are 18-30 year olds proving to be most susceptible to investment fraud? We talk to Hilary McKeekin from the Alberta Securities Commission about desperation, and how "get rich quick" schemes target young professionals. We heard from (literally) more than a hundred of you who reached out to [email protected] and told us you wanted Real Talkers to hear Les Landry's story. We check in with the citizen organizer, founder of #PeopleFightingPoverty, and learn about why he's taking matters into his own hands. Todd Babiak is a master storyteller. The CEO of Brand Tasmania, co-founder of Story Engine, and author of several celebrated novels checks in (at 4am his time!) to lay out how Alberta needs to tell its story to the rest of the world. It's a live branding exercise you won't want to miss. Plus, plenty of your emails on various subjects throughout this "easy breathing" episode of Real Talk! 22:32 - Hilary McKeekin 1:04:22 - Les Landry 1:35:54 - Todd Babiak

Can the relationship between Ottawa and Alberta really be as positive and collaborative as Minister Seamus O'Regan portrayed it to be on Friday's show? We ask longtime pollster and political commentator David Herle, former top advisor to Prime Minister Paul Martin, to chime in. The host of The Herle Burly podcast tells us why he thinks CPC leader Erin O'Toole has problems brewing within his party, and if he believes the Liberals will call an election this spring. The Alberta budget released last week isn't bad news for everybody, but it's a tough one for post-secondary institutions. Hardest hit is the University of Alberta. Dr. Laurie Adkin and Ricardo Acuna tell us why they believe the cuts are "vindictive," and explore different options for the university moving forward. Closing in on the one year mark with this pandemic, more and more people are acknowledging its effects on their mental health and wellbeing. Riaz Meghji, a former colleague of Ryan's at the Breakfast Television, takes us into his new book about the five habits for meaningful human connection, Every Conversation Counts. Plus, it's Monday, so prepare to be inspired by another edition of Positive Reflections, presented by Kuby Energy! 9:02 - David Herle 37:40 - University Cuts Panel (Dr. Laurie Adkin & Ricardo Acuna) 1:38:11 - Riaz Meghji 2:26:36 - Positive Reflections

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.

The Hon. Seamus O'Regan oversees one of the federal government's busiest portfolios. Canada's Minister of Natural Resources chimes in on what Ottawa's doing or has done on Keystone XL, Enbridge Line Five, abandoned and orphaned wells, wind and solar, and more (including questions submitted by Alberta Mayors Alanna Hnatiw and Barry Morishita on hydrogen and a national energy corridor). On the heels of the UCP's budget, released Thursday afternoon, we dig into the details with political scientist Dr. Chaldeans Mensah, conservative strategist Melissa Caouette, podcaster Kathleen Smith, and millwright-turned-teacher Stephen Anderson. Plus, it's Friday, so buckle up for another rowdy edition of Trash Talk, presented by Local Waste! 8:15 - Hon. Seamus O’Regan 45:16 - Alberta Budget Round Table Part 1 (Dr. Chaldeans Mensah & Melissa Caouette) 1:12:52 - Alberta Budget Round Table Part 2 (Kathleen Smith & Stephen Anderson) 2:20:22 - Trash Talk

Albertans are bracing for a tough budget today. Official Opposition finance critic Shannon Phillips lays out what she's expecting to see from the UCP, and what the NDP would do differently. Tens of thousands of seniors (and their families) were unable to successfully schedule vaccinations online yesterday, as Alberta Health Services' website couldn't keep up to demand. Enter the brilliant Dr. Kory Mathewson. The DeepMind research scientist took it upon himself to fix the problem ("in six minutes"), and share his solution with the world via Twitter. He explains how and why he did it, and responds to an outpouring of gratitude from complete strangers. We've been talking about sustainable farming and ranching in past weeks, as well as food waste. What about when those world collide? Ranchers Ryan Kasko and Jill Burkhardt tell us how their beef operations benefit from thinking "outside the farm". Speaking of cows, what's up with butter lately? Why is the entire world talking about it, including Jimmy Fallon, the BBC, and the New York Times? Julie Van Rosendaal, the food columnist driving this international story, joins to tell us how it all came about (and sort out what it means for consumers). 12:13 - MLA Shannon Phillips 42:11 - Dr. Kory Mathewson 1:09:06 - Ryan Kasko & Jill Burkhardt 1:37:04 - Julie Van Rosendaal

If you had a hard time finding Real Talk on your favourite podcast platform yesterday, you weren't alone. Podboard100 managing director Stephen Brogarth explains why some of the most prominent platforms have recently come under "DDoS" attack. Calgary Police Constable Tad Milmine's personal survival story is both troubling and remarkable. On Pink Shirt Day, he explains how he overcame child abuse and struggles around his sexuality to establish the international charity Bullying Ends Here. Blake Shaffer (University of Calgary) and Joshua Rhodes (University of Texas at Austin) have worked collaboratively to determine what we can learn from the Lone Star State's recent energy woes. The dynamic duo joins Ryan to talk wind, solar, nuclear, natural gas, coal, and other forms of power - and to respond to Monday's conversation about Alberta's energy future with former talk show host Danielle Smith. Journalist Elise Stolte is spearheading a new approach to "engagement journalism" with the Edmonton Journal's Groundwork initiative. She brings us up to speed on why it's such an effective method of storytelling, and provides the latest details impacting seniors around COVID-19. Conor Ruzycki has spent the past decade studying pharmaceutical aerosols. The PhD candidate in mechanical engineering explains what we've learned about how this virus spreads, and simple steps each of us can take to flatten the curve. 8:15 - Stephen Brogarth 19:15 - Cst. Tad Milmine 39:20 - Power Grid Panel (Blake Shaffer and Joshua Rhodes) 1:10:10 - Elise Stolte 1:40:13 - Conor Ruzycki

There's no question racist language, signage, and symbolism was on full display at an "anti-lockdown" rally in Edmonton over the weekend. Senator Paula Simons and former federal cabinet minister Amarjeet Sohi clearly agree it needs to be addressed, but have different thoughts on how. They join Ryan for a great back-and-forth out of the gates. Alberta's upcoming provincial budget promises to be a tough one. What goes into the difficult decisions government faces? Dr. Trevor Tombe and Ted Kouri roll out a new project at TheNext30.ca, aimed at educating the public on the budget process. (How would you save $10B?) She's a Real Talker - and an ultramarathoner. What's motivating Laura Sherrer-Townsend to complete 50 ultramarathons before her 50th birthday? We find out. Plus, after his high-profile interview with former talk radio host Danielle Smith, Ryan reads your emails, sent to [email protected]. 5:51 - Amarjeet Sohi & Senator Paula Simons 38:10 - Dr. Trevor Tombe & Ted Kouri 1:31:45 - Laura Sherrer-Townsend

With their pastor still sitting in jail for defying public health orders, congregants at GraceLife Church west of Edmonton packed the house to capacity yet again Sunday morning. Ryan reviews some of the messaging from the pulpit, and reads emails describing how Real Talkers would respond to the situation. Now-former talk show host Danielle Smith walked away from a prominent radio gig on Friday, and joins Ryan for an exclusive one-on-one. She explains why she resigned, shares her assessment of public discourse these days, discusses some of her more controversial moments on the radio, and divulges whether or not she's considering a return to politics. A few days after NASA's Perseverance rover landed successfully on Mars, planetary biologist Emily Lakdawalla explains what we've learned out of the gates, and what she's most looking forward to seeing in the months and years to come. Plus, it's Monday, so we get our week started on the right foot with another inspiring edition of Positive Reflections, presented by Kuby Energy! 37:50 - Danielle Smith 1:38:25 - Emily Lakdawalla

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.

The world watched as NASA's Perseverance rover touched down on Mars. World-renowned theoretical astrophysicist Dr. Katie Mack, author of The End of Everything, joins us for a wonderfully-captivating conversation about this huge accomplishment. We observe and discuss Black History Month with conservative strategist Semhar Tekeste, photographer Eric Domond, and educator Andrew Parker. You won't want to miss their unique perspectives on looking back and looking forward. Following our look at the Fred Meyer dumpster story out of Portland, we talk about mitigating food waste with Leftover Foundation's Garnet Borch. And, of course, it's Friday, so buckle up for another lively edition of Trash Talk, presented by Local Waste! 6:04 - Dr. Katie Mack 37:42 - Black History Month Round Table 1:34:17 - Garnet Borch 2:08:21 - Trash Talk

As Portland police officers guarded dumpsters full of food outside the Fred Meyer grocery store, Dr. Juniper Simonis was there documenting it. They join us out of the gates to talk about policing, community activism, social supports, and food waste. Real Talk viewer Darren, a grain farmer, took issue with viewer Jared's Trash Talk email on Friday (which essentially called "sustainable beef" an oxymoron). Darren suggested we reach out to UC Davis researcher Dr. Frank Mitloehner, so we did. One of the world's foremost experts on animal science and GHG emissions joins for a great conversation on sustainable agriculture. It's no secret Calgary faces huge challenges. Global oil prices are in the tank, downtown office vacancy is right around 30%, and there are very fair questions about the city's future. A new PAC - Look Forward Calgary - launched this week, and offered to make Real Talk their first media stop. Board members Darby Lee Young, Shelley Kuipers, and Irfhan Rawji explain the point of the exercise, and what their version of a reinvented Calgary looks like. 13:55 - Dr. Juniper Simonis 1:05:05 - Dr. Frank Mitloehner 1:34:34 - Look Forward Calgary Panel

Are provincial and federal whistleblower protections really "toothless and useless"? David Hutton, Ian Bron, and James Turk from Ryerson University's Centre for Free Expression lay out their message to the Alberta government, and explain why they're so concerned about the legislative review currently underway. How do we demonstrate "moral courage in messy times"? New York Times best-selling author Irshad Manji explains why uncomfortable conversations are so important, leading up to her February 18th virtual event - epl.ca/speakers-series. After Edmonton Police officers booted houseless individuals from a heated transit centre into -30C cold, Blake Desjarlais tells us about his beloved cousin Pierre, and outlines what humane policy needs to look like in serving society's oft-marginalized population. 5:23 - Whistleblowers Panel 35:20 - Irshad manji 1:08:41 - Blake Desjarlais

For several years, Irene Deschenes suffered sexual abuse at the hands of a Catholic priest. She joins us along with her lawyer Loretta Merritt to explain how their recent Supreme Court victory paves the way for true justice to be served. The public school board in Red Deer, Alberta will not observe Pride Week; instead, they'll promote a "Diversity Week" this year. We talk to longtime Red Deer school trustee Dianne Macaulay and LGBTQ2S+ advocate Dr. Kristopher Wells about why specific Pride celebrations are important. Emergency department Dr. Shazma Mithani, infectious diseases Dr. Lynora Saxinger, and ICU Dr. Darren Markland provide fact checks following interviews with UCP MLA Drew Barnes and Lt. Col. (Ret.) David Redman last week about easing pandemic restrictions. Yale Law professor, New York Times magazine writer, and Slate Political Gabfest co-host Emily Bazelon checks in from Connecticut to make sense of post-January 6th America, Donald Trump's second impeachment acquittal, and the early stages of Joe Biden's presidency. mCloud Technologies CEO Russ McMeekin explains why they're moving corporate headquarters to Calgary, and where he finds reason for optimism in a strained economy. Plus, we get our week started off on the right foot with another edition of Positive Reflections presented by Kuby Energy! 3:02 - Irene Deschenes and Loretta Merritt 19:01 - Red Deer Public Schools Pride Panel 37:11 - Doctors' Fact Check Panel 1:18:43 - Emily Bazelon 1:38:00 - Russ McMeekin