Brian Crombie Radio Hour

As the year winds down, The Brian Crombie Hour takes a thoughtful look at how the past can inform the future — in business and beyond. Brian Crombie is joined by Joanne Archibald, PhD, Canadian historian and founder of Livy Consulting, for a deep dive into why organizational history is one of the most underused assets in today's marketplace. Joanne works with Canadian companies that have rich archives but struggle to turn them into meaningful narratives. In this episode, she explains how heritage can strengthen branding, marketing, internal culture, and trust — and why authentic storytelling resonates more than ever in a crowded, noisy world. The conversation also explores Joanne's transition from academia to entrepreneurship, the challenges of building a purpose-driven consulting firm, and what Canada's historical identity — including lessons from figures like Prime Minister Louis St. Laurent — can teach organizations about leadership and legacy. A smart, reflective episode about identity, storytelling, and using history not as nostalgia — but as strategy.

On this special Christmas Day episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian slows the pace for a thoughtful and engaging conversation about where Christmas truly comes from. Joined by Jacqueline Murray, PhD, FRHistS, University Professor Emerita in the Department of History at the University of Guelph, the discussion explores how ancient solstice celebrations, medieval customs, and centuries of cultural storytelling shaped the holiday we know today. The episode examines how pagan rituals blended into Christian traditions, how St. Nicholas evolved into Santa Claus, why Christmas trees were once controversial, how the holiday was nearly banned during the Puritan era, and how Charles Dickens helped redefine Christmas as a season of generosity, charity, and community. A warm, insightful, and timeless conversation that reminds us Christmas has always been a living tradition — shaped by history, belief, and humanity's enduring search for light in dark times.

Brian speaks with Martin Buckland. Martin is one of the world's leading Executive Career Management Practitioners. He holds multiple designations in resume writing and coaching and specializes at the Senior Manager level and above and those who aspire to be business leaders. Martin Buckland talks about Santa's resume! This is a very fun but also very thoughtful review of those critical qualities Santa needs, and many of us aspire to.

In this special pre-Christmas episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian Crombie steps away from politics and headlines to offer something different — a moment of laughter, reflection, and calm in the middle of the holiday rush. Brian is joined by Carla Collins — comedian, actor, author, and one of Canada's most beloved voices in comedy — for a warm, funny, and deeply human conversation about why laughter may be the best survival tool during the holidays. They explore comedy at Christmas, managing seasonal stress, and how Carla blends humor and wellness through her Laugh of Attraction and Comedic Meditation work. Carla also shares details about her holiday and New Year performances, including her Boxing Day and December 27 shows in London, Ontario, and her New Year's Eve headline show in Barrie — a night of gourmet dining and comedy to ring in the new year with joy. The episode closes with a short Christmas message from Brian on choosing presence over perfection, connection over chaos, and finding peace in a season that can be joyful — and complicated — all at once. No politics. No noise. Just laughter, perspective, and a gentle pause before Christmas.

In this timely episode of The Brian Crombie Radio Hour, Brian Crombie is joined by Ann Fitz-Gerald, Director of the Balsillie School of International Affairs and one of Canada's foremost experts on defence, security, and geopolitics, for a critical discussion on Canada's national security future. With decades of experience spanning senior roles in the U.K., NATO, and the Pearson Peacekeeping Centre — and as the first civilian woman admitted to the Royal Military College's defence studies program — Ann Fitz-Gerald brings rare insight into strategy, sovereignty, and national preparedness. The conversation explores a question Canada has long avoided:How does Canada protect its sovereignty, economy, and security in a rapidly changing global order? Topics include Canada's fragmented approach to national security, what the new U.S. national security strategy signals for allies, the growing importance of AI, data, cybersecurity, and critical minerals, and Canada's absence from key global conversations shaping strategic trade and supply chains. Ann also explains why Canada needs a formal expert advisory council and a clearer long-term vision to move from reacting to deciding its future. This is not a partisan discussion — it's a strategic one. At a moment when geopolitics, technology, and economic security are converging, this episode makes the case for why Canada needs a coherent national security strategy now more than ever.

In this powerful episode of The Brian Crombie Radio Hour, Brian Crombie sits down with Rose Barroso — luxury real estate executive, custom home builder, and author of the forthcoming memoir Indestructible: Transforming Survival into Success. Born in Portugal and raised in Toronto, Rose grew up facing abandonment, abuse, and instability. In this deeply moving conversation, she shares how confronting trauma became the foundation of her resilience and leadership — allowing her to rise and succeed in two of the most male-dominated industries. Rose opens up about breaking generational cycles of abuse, reclaiming her voice, and transforming pain into purpose. This episode is an honest exploration of healing, strength, and what it truly means to be indestructible. A must-listen for anyone navigating adversity, personal growth, or leadership through lived experience.

In this special two-part episode of The Brian Crombie Radio Hour, Brian Crombie explores one of the most urgent challenges facing Canada today: why a country rich in scientific talent and discovery continues to struggle with innovation, productivity, and economic growth. Part one features Dr. Peter Singer, Special Advisor to the Director General of the World Health Organization and co-founder of Grand Challenges Canada. Dr. Singer examines Canada's long-standing failure to commercialize its world-class research — from mRNA breakthroughs to life-changing pharmaceuticals — and outlines the policy, funding, and cultural changes needed to turn discovery into domestic prosperity. In part two, Brian is joined by Neil Seeman, author, educator, and CEO of Sutherland House Experts, who tackles the human side of innovation. Neil explains why culture, collaboration, risk-taking, and authentic connection matter as much as capital and policy — and why Canada must rethink how it nurtures talent, entrepreneurship, and creative courage if it wants to compete globally. Together, Singer and Seeman present a complete picture of Canada's innovation challenge — and a roadmap for building an economy that rewards bold ideas, keeps talent at home, and turns potential into progress.

Brian Crombie speaks with Steven Charlap, founder of Medome.AI, about how artificial intelligence can put patients back at the centre of healthcare. Born from personal tragedy, Medome.AI is designed to improve diagnostic accuracy, strengthen doctor–patient conversations, and help patients arrive informed and prepared — without replacing physicians. A timely conversation on preventive care, patient empowerment, and what the future of healthcare can look like when technology supports, rather than replaces, human connection.

Brian Crombie is joined by Dr. Anna Wilkinson, a family physician with a special interest in oncology and an Associate Professor at the University of Ottawa, for a timely and evidence-based conversation about prostate cancer screening — and why current approaches may need to change. Dr. Wilkinson bridges primary care and oncology, studying how screening guidelines translate into real-world outcomes. In this episode, she explains why prostate cancer screening today looks very different than it did decades ago, and why outdated assumptions may be contributing to rising rates of advanced, incurable disease.Topics discussed include:

Brian Crombie is joined by Mario Lefebvre, one of Canada's most experienced economists, for a candid discussion on the biggest risk to Canada's economic future — and it isn't tariffs. With 35 years of experience, including senior roles at the Bank of Canada, Conference Board of Canada, Ivanhoé Cambridge, and now Aviseo Conseil, Mario explains how low productivity, weak business investment, and an uncompetitive tax environment are quietly undermining Canada's economy more than trade disputes or deficits. In this episode, they explore:

Join Brian Crombie as he sits down with Toronto's top boutique matchmaker, Shannon Tebb, to uncover what modern dating really looks like — and why emotional connection is the number one priority for today's singles. Shannon shares why busy, successful men are turning to matchmakers for genuine compatibility, discretion, and meaningful relationships. Get practical, actionable advice on how to:Share stories instead of running interviewsBe curious, present, and playfulBuild chemistry in the crucial first 90 daysPlus, Shannon's biggest insight: “Marry your best friend — the one you can be fully yourself with.” They also dive into dating apps, personal branding, emotional intelligence, and the success stories behind her Premium Service. Whether you're new to dating or navigating the modern scene, this episode is packed with strategies to make meaningful connections. If you want, I can also draft a few catchier, punchier title options that might stand out in podcast feeds. Do you want me to do that?

Brian Crombie welcomes economist, playwright, and debut novelist Ann Cavlovic to discuss her newly published book Count on Me. Ann's novel is a sharp, funny, and deeply honest look at elder abuse, family dysfunction, single motherhood, and the emotional and financial realities of caregiving. Drawing from her own experiences supporting aging parents, she exposes a crime that often goes unseen: elder abuse within families. In this episode, Ann explores:

Brian Crombie dives into Toronto real estate's biggest stories of 2025. Real Estate Forum 2025: Hear insights from top developers on stabilized markets, why land is being called the trade of the decade, and how multifamily properties could become the next big opportunity. Luxury Condo Market with Saul Sanchez: Explore Toronto's new wave of luxury condos, featuring large suites, curated amenities, boutique buildings, and learn why downsizers are reshaping the market. A must-listen for investors, homeowners, and anyone curious about the evolving Toronto real estate landscape.

Brian Crombie is joined by Dr. Heather Exner-Pirot, one of Canada's foremost voices on energy policy, pipelines, Indigenous relations, and resource development. Central to the national discussion on Canada's new Pipeline MOU, Heather breaks down why it's a major political and economic talking point. In this episode, Heather explores:

Brian Crombie welcomes Devon Cranson, Founder and President of Cranson Capital, one of Toronto's leading real estate private equity and exempt market dealers. Having raised over $300 million from accredited investors and serving on 27 active development projects worth more than $3 billion across Ontario, Devon shares his insights on the future of housing in the region. In this episode, Devon explains:

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian sits down with Amanda Carrasco — survivor, advocate, legal professional, business owner, and author of Becoming the Brave One: My Journey to Justice. Amanda shares her deeply moving story of surviving multiple sexual assaults, childhood adversity, and the devastating murder of her sister and her sister's family — and how she transformed that pain into a life dedicated to healing and justice.Together, they explore her journey through trauma and resilience, her work in restorative justice, and the emotional process of reclaiming identity, self-worth, and hope. Amanda opens up about shame, forgiveness, rebuilding trust, parenting through trauma, and finding purpose through helping others. This unforgettable conversation is a testament to the strength of the human spirit — and a reminder that no matter what you've been through, healing is possible and bravery can be reborn.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Jo-Ann Roberts — writer, democracy advocate, and former Interim Leader of the Green Party of Canada — for an urgent and thought-provoking conversation about the state of Canadian democracy. Drawing from her book Storm the Ballot Box: An Insider's Guide to a Voting Revolution, Jo-Ann breaks down why more Canadians than ever are choosing not to vote, with participation among young people at a troubling low.Together, they explore why lowering the voting age to 16 could help reverse the trend, how other countries are already making the change, and what the research reveals about young voters' long-term engagement. The conversation also tackles broader democratic reforms, from mandatory voting and recall elections to improved civic education and greater political accountability. It's a timely, energizing episode that asks a crucial question: could empowering young voters be the key to revitalizing Canada's democracy?

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Parisa Mahboubi, Associate Director of Research at the C.D. Howe Institute, for an in-depth look at what's really happening in Canada's immigration system. Drawing on data and personal experience, Parisa explains why numeric targets have overtaken a focus on skills, how the temporary resident and international student programs have become unbalanced, and why the current system feels unpredictable for newcomers. They also explore the broader impact on housing, infrastructure, and public confidence — and the key reforms Canada needs to build a clearer, fairer, and more sustainable immigration model. A thoughtful, timely, and essential conversation for anyone concerned about Canada's future.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Fred Cassano, National Real Estate Leader at PwC Canada, for a timely deep dive into the future of housing and real estate in Canada. Drawing on PwC's extensive survey of over 1,250 industry leaders, they explore why the condo market has stalled, why purpose-built rentals are booming, and why only top-tier office space remains in demand.They also unpack the impacts of labour shortages, private equity investment, ESG priorities, and Canada's growing need for 500,000 new homes a year. Fred outlines why condo sales today could drive higher rents in 2026, how Canada is falling behind in AI and data centre development, and what real estate leaders urgently want from government — faster approvals, smarter permitting, and lower barriers to building. It's a must-listen conversation for anyone concerned about housing affordability, investment trends, or the future of Canadian cities and the economy.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by one of Canada's most respected political pollsters, Nik Nanos of Nanos Research, for a timely and revealing look at the shifting currents of Canadian politics. Together, they break down what the latest data is really saying, why the Conservatives can't seem to break through even with low NDP support, the surprising uptick in Liberal momentum around Mark Carney, and how razor-thin margins in key ridings helped shape the last federal election. Their conversation also explores the bigger forces influencing Canada's political future, including the Alberta–Canada pipeline deal, Indigenous participation and legal challenges, public opinion on energy exports, and growing separatist sentiment in Alberta — including talk of closer ties to the U.S. They examine how the evolving Canada–U.S. relationship is impacting confidence, the economy, and national direction, and whether the country is ready to take risks or remain stuck in a political holding pattern.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is first joined by Neil Seeman, entrepreneur, researcher, columnist, and one of Canada's clearest thinkers on innovation and the economy. Neil argues that Canada doesn't have a creativity problem, but a commercialization problem. Together they explore why Canadian ideas struggle to scale, why young talent is leaving, how global capital is shifting, and what Canada must do to compete in an AI- and clean-tech-driven world. Neil breaks down the psychology of innovation, the power of honest collaboration, and what it will take to turn Canadian invention into Canadian prosperity.Brian is then joined by STEEP Daniels (Jesus Guggenheim) painter, filmmaker, cultural catalyst, and 2025 Resident Artist for the Ekran Polish Film Festival. STEEP shares how a spontaneous artistic tribute to Prince launched his connection to the festival, leading to a decade-spanning exhibition and the creation of this year's festival trailer. They explore how his paintings become cultural movements, how Polish storytelling shapes his work, and why giving back, particularly to SickKids, is woven into everything he creates. The result is a rich, heartfelt conversation about art, identity, and using creativity as a force for community and change.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian welcomes Greg Vezina, President of Hydrofuel Inc. and one of Canada's boldest clean-tech innovators. They explore breakthrough technologies that could transform the global energy landscape from micro-ammonia production to photochemical reactors that convert methane into clean hydrogen and valuable carbon products… all powered by light. Greg breaks down why ammonia may be the missing link in hydrogen adoption, why pipelines often outperform power lines, and why Canada needs a return to basic math and science thinking if it hopes to lead the next energy revolution.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Meredith Preston McGhie, one of the world's leading practitioners in conflict resolution and the Secretary General of the Global Centre for Pluralism. For nearly 30 years, Meredith has worked at the front lines of peacebuilding across Africa and Asia — from the Naga in Northeast India, to ethnic dialogues in Nigeria and Kenya, to UN efforts in Kosovo, Iraq, South Sudan, Somalia and Sudan. Few people understand conflict, diversity, and democratic resilience the way she does.Meredith brings realism, experience, and a rare optimism grounded in decades of hard-won lessons from conflict zones. She believes and demonstrates that pluralism isn't idealistic. It's necessary. And that in times of division, ordinary people have extraordinary power to create peace.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by three Mississauga residents demanding real transparency in our city's budget: community advocate, George Tavares, local business owner, Kim Pines, and resident leader for financial accountability, Athina Tagidou.Together, they break down the big questions City Hall isn't answering. These include why taxes are rising faster than inflation every year, how “blended rates” hide the true tax increase, why Mississauga pays 62% of Peel Police costs but gets less than half the say, and why claims of “no room to cut” don't match the data. Other questions they discuss include why public engagement is collapsing, how quality of life is slipping while the budget keeps growing, and the looming MPAC reassessment that could mean thousands more in taxes. This episode emphasizes that residents deserve honest budgeting, clearer communication, real oversight, and leadership that treats public dollars with the same discipline families bring to their own budgets.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Peter Dickinson, Ukraine Editor at the Atlantic Council, for a candid breakdown of the leaked U.S. peace proposal for Ukraine, a document that looks far more Moscow-made than Washington-led. Together, they unpack a “U.S. plan” written in Russian-style diplomatic language, negotiations happening largely between the U.S. and Russia without Ukraine, and proposed territorial concessions in Donetsk. Other topics of conversation include weak security guarantees Ukraine cannot trust, the real situation on the battlefield, why Russia is pushing for a deal, and what this means for Europe, NATO, and global security.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Danielle Papillon-Richardson and Phillip Richardson of Black Opal Advisors — co-authors of the upcoming book "Funny, Not Funny: Humanity's Risk Register". Together they dig into AI's rapid evolution, why fewer than 10% of businesses use it effectively, and the growing challenge of AI deception and hallucinations. They also explore the urgent need for global AI governance, the major risks facing humanity — from AI to climate to geopolitics — and how psychology shapes our response to them. Danielle offers practical advice for leaders on how to implement AI responsibly, while Phil breaks down the existential risk landscape with clarity and humour. A fascinating, provocative, and hopeful conversation about the future of AI — and the future of us.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Amy Jiang, Principal at BA Group and one of the leading transportation planning engineers shaping the future of development across the Greater Toronto Area. Amy brings 20 years of experience working on the GTA's biggest and most transformational projects — including the 30-year redevelopment of the Downsview Airport lands that will eventually welcome 165,000 residents and 50,000 jobs.In this conversation, they discuss what transportation planning really is, the future of Downsview, what makes a community feel alive, secrets of successful large-scale developments, and Amy's personal journey in engineering.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian sits down with friend and advisor Pierre-Jean Esmieu-Fournel, a Paris-based financier whose life story and sharp analysis cut through the noise on Europe's economic crisis. PJ shares his experience inside France's welfare state including fully covered metastatic cancer treatment worth €320,000/year, and why the system is now at a breaking point, France's fiscal reality, and a political system in turmoil. He also discusses retirement ages, pension models, health-care tradeoffs, and demographic pressures hitting all three nations.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Sam Savrajan behavioral scientist and former financial executive for an urgently needed, honest conversation about Canada's debt, deficits, and economic future. They tackle the critical, often-avoided questions which include the debt cycle, why governments obscure where money is really going, voter power and the raising GST and retirement age. This is a must-listen for anyone demanding honest, transparent, and sustainable governance.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Sergio Marchi, former Toronto alderman, long-time Member of Parliament, Cabinet Minister, and Canada's Ambassador to the World Trade Organization. Sergio has lived almost every chapter of public service. Now, from his home in Tremblant, he's written a remarkable new book, "Pursuing a Public Life", aimed at inspiring the next generation of Canadians to step into politics, leadership, and national service.In this conversation, they explore why young Canadians are drifting away from politics and what we must do to reconnect them with the country's democratic life as well as the 78 lessons from a career in public service drawn from Sergio's decades navigating city hall, Parliament Hill, cabinet, and international diplomacy. Other topics of conversation include the allure of international NGOs versus domestic politics, why Canada urgently needs young people to recommit to the home front, and so much more!

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian chats with Katia Stern, a board-certified clinical sexologist who has had one of the most fascinating career journeys he's heard: from lawyer to fitness competitor to executive coach — and now doing her PhD research on perimenopausal women. Katia tells Brian very candidly that you can have the perfect-looking life — success, real estate, the gym body, the titles — and still feel like you're disappearing on the inside when perimenopause hits. That's what drove her to this work: so many women in their 40s and 50s feeling invisible, struggling with body changes, intimacy, hormones, and no one explaining what's happening.Together, they discuss the difference between “sexy coaching” online and real, science-based clinical sexology, how perimenopause affects relationships and desire, why a lot of her private clients are actually men trying to understand their partners, and how tools like hypnotherapy, nutrition, and strength training can help women get their confidence and pleasure back.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian opens with a reflection on the defining economic and political moment facing Canada today. From rising interest rates and a housing crisis to stalled productivity and growing global pressures, Brian outlines why Canada stands at a critical turning point and what bold action is needed to move forward. Then, Brian is joined by Eric Guntermann, PhD, Chief Data Scientist at Empirical Intelligence, for a data-driven look at how Canadians really see their country's politics. Together, they explore what Canadians think of Prime Minister Mark Carney, where voters are shifting across party lines, how Americans view Canada, and why understanding public opinion is key to rebuilding confidence and progress.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by historian, author, and teacher J.D.M. Stewart, one of Canada's foremost experts on our prime ministers, to discuss his insightful book "The Prime Ministers: Canada's Leaders and the Nation They Shaped." Together they explore what history can teach Mark Carney — and any future leader — about governing a complex, diverse country like Canada. Drawing from the examples of past prime ministers, Stewart highlights four timeless lessons in leadership. Stewart and Brian discuss how these qualities — pragmatism, teamwork, courage, and inspiration — remain essential to leadership today, and what kind of vision could once again unite and propel our country forward.

This Remembrance Day, join Brian for a special conversation with award-winning historian and bestselling author Allan Levine about his latest book, "The Dollar-a-Year Men".Allan, the author of 16 acclaimed books including King: A Life Guided by the Hand of Destiny and Toronto: Biography of a City, has spent his career uncovering the people and moments that shaped our nation. A long-time columnist for the Winnipeg Free Press and contributor to the Globe and Mail, National Post, and Maclean's, he brings a storyteller's depth to Canada's wartime history.In "The Dollar-a-Year Men", Allan recounts how, during World War II, hundreds of business leaders volunteered their expertise to serve in government for a symbolic salary of one dollar a year. Under the bold leadership of C.D. Howe, these men transformed Canada into an industrial and military powerhouse — coordinating munitions, shipbuilding, and aircraft production that helped turn the tide of war. Allan and Brian discuss what drew Allan to this story, how figures like Howe managed to mobilize private industry at lightning speed, and whether this model of public–private collaboration could have lessons for today's world. Brian also shares a personal connection — his grandfather, Hugh Arthur Crombie, served on the War Munitions Board and was recognized by Prince Philip for his wartime contributions.This Remembrance Day, we remember not only those who fought on the front lines, but those who built the machinery of victory at home — Canadians whose sense of duty, innovation, and patriotism still inspire us today.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, join Brian for a compelling conversation with Jeff Rubin, renowned economist, former CIBC Chief Economist, and author of A Map of the New Normal.Jeff argues that Canada's economy is standing at a crossroads. As the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement comes up for renewal, protectionism south of the border is reshaping our trade reality. Rubin warns that Canada can no longer rely on the U.S. market, predicting rising mortgage rates and growing vulnerability in a potential trade war.Together they discuss whether Prime Minister Mark Carney's plan to double non-U.S. exports is realistic — or merely political theatre. Rubin says Europe offers little growth and limited market access, while the real opportunities lie with BRICS countries like China and India, despite strained diplomatic ties. Jeff also challenges Canada's current tariff strategy, asking: Why are we matching U.S. tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles when our own EV production is stalled?It's a thought-provoking look at how Canada must adapt — balancing values, politics, and economic survival in an increasingly divided global economy.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian speaks with Audrey Hyams Romoff, a leading PR executive for major global brands and the author of the powerful new memoir, "The Ripple Eclipse: Turning the Tide of Inherited Trauma." Audrey shares her remarkable journey balancing a high-profile career in public relations with the deeply personal legacy of her family's Holocaust survival.In her conversation with Brian, she opens up about her mother's time in Auschwitz, the mysterious deaths of her parents, and how four generations of women have navigated pain, silence, and ultimately healing. Brian and Audrey also explore how her professional life in PR intersects with her mission to foster openness, empathy, and resilience both in her work and within her family. It's an emotional, raw, and inspiring conversation about survival, self-discovery, and strength.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Mark Borkowski. Mark is the President of Mercantile Mergers & Acquisitions Corp. and a veteran sell-side advisor with over 400 transactions since 1987. In 2026, record dry powder meets too few quality targets as private equity and strategics remain cash-rich but selective. Mark explores active roll-up sectors such as dental, veterinary, HVAC, and plumbing, and how private credit reshapes bids. He reveals value drivers like clean financials and normalized EBITDA, common deal killers, succession pitfalls, valuation bridges, and hidden opportunities in receivership and power-of-sale real estate.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Carl Gomez, one of Canada's leading economists, for a deep dive into the Bank of Canada's interest rate cuts, the mortgage reset crunch, and the broader forces shaping our economy. Carl explains how the Bank's move to lower rates from 5% to 2.25% is stabilizing inflation fears but warns that the real solutions to Canada's economic slowdown must come from structural reform, not just monetary policy.Together they explore:How upcoming mortgage renewals could raise payments by $1,000 a month for many householdsWhy the housing market is cooling — and what that means for affordability and investmentThe impact of U.S. trade tariffs on manufacturing and industrial real estateAnd why Canada must pivot toward productivity, AI innovation, and diversified trade if it wants real, lasting growth

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by veteran political strategist Rick Anderson, Principal at E4 Strategies, for a sharp, behind-the-scenes look at the high-stakes political brinkmanship now gripping Ottawa.As budget votes loom and party leaders posture, are we heading toward a federal election — or just another round of political chicken? Rick shares his insider forecast: why an election right now would be economic madness, how U.S. trade wars and global instability are shaping Canada's political calculus, and why Mark Carney may have the right strategy for Canada.They also dive into Canada's fiscal health, the balancing act between climate policy and energy security, and whether embracing Chinese electric vehicles could reshape our auto sector.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by members of a remarkable volunteer organization to celebrate more than a century of compassion, craftsmanship, and community service.The Needlework Guild began in Dorset, England in 1882, founded to help children orphaned by mining disasters in Wales. The movement spread across Britain and North America — and today, the Toronto branch proudly stands as the only remaining North American chapter.Each year, its 300 dedicated members knit, sew, and purchase new clothing and essential items for 21 frontline social service agencies across the GTA. Last year alone, they donated over 22,000 items — from baby layettes and winter coats to hats, mittens, blankets, and personal hygiene products.You'll hear inspiring stories from longtime members:• Sue Garskey, who first got involved through her mother, has held many roles including president, and still supports the Guild even after moving to Ottawa.• Joyce Hisey, recipient of the Order of Canada, who has spent a lifetime organizing volunteers and is now the Guild's membership coordinator.• Cathy Reith, who joined about nine years ago, stepped in as secretary and then president, and now helps lead the Guild through a new generation of giving.• Brenda Rathbone, who joined eight years ago and now runs social media and outreach, helping connect the Guild's mission to the wider community.Together, they share how knitting hats, mittens, and baby layettes has become both a craft and a calling — a tradition that blends creativity with compassion.And fittingly, this interview airs on the same day as the Guild's annual Distribution Day, when all their year's work culminates in delivering thousands of handmade and purchased goods to people who need them most.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Danielle Nonog, a former adult entertainer turned branding and confidence coach, for a frank and fascinating conversation about the impact of pornography on relationships, intimacy, and our broader culture. Drawing from her personal experience in the adult industry, Danielle argues that pornography can act as a gateway drug — desensitizing viewers, distorting expectations, and normalizing transactional relationships. We explore how this culture shapes dating apps, “sugar baby” dynamics, and the influencer economy of platforms like TikTok and OnlyFans.Their discussion goes beyond judgment to ask harder questions:How does porn consumption affect empathy and connection?Why do some people escalate toward more extreme content?Can men and women rediscover healthy, authentic relationship models?Danielle also shares her story of reinvention and self-empowerment, helping others especially women build confidence, purpose, and identity beyond the adult industry.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Sarita Samaroo, real estate broker, investor, and founder of Property Investment Hub, to discuss her bold warning about Canada's housing market — and why she believes a major correction may be underway. Sarita and Brian break down the warning signs: rising mortgage delinquencies, power-of-sale listings, falling condo prices, and stalled new developments. They explore the ripple effects on homeowners, renters, and developers, and how policy, interest rates, and investor psychology are combining to reshape the market. She argues that what's happening isn't just a cyclical dip, but a structural shift — one that could reset affordability and investment strategies for years to come. We also discuss how investors can protect themselves, what opportunities might emerge from the downturn, and what governments should (and shouldn't) do next.