Brian Crombie Radio Hour

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.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by two leading voices on Canada's Arctic — Stephen Van Dine, City Manager of Yellowknife and longtime expert in northern governance and sustainable development, and Dr. Rob Huebert, Professor of Political Science at the University of Calgary and one of Canada's foremost authorities on Arctic defence and security.Together, we explore how Canada's North is becoming the new frontier for both economic opportunity and national security. Stephen Van Dine shares his first-hand perspective from Yellowknife, a community at the crossroads of mining, infrastructure, and Indigenous-led development and discusses the ambitious Arctic Economic Security Corridor, a proposed 900-kilometre highway to the Northwest Passage. Rob brings a defence and geopolitical lens, outlining the urgent need for Canada to invest in Arctic sovereignty, critical minerals strategy, and military infrastructure. They discuss China's expanding presence in northern waters, Russia's submarine activities, and the international debate over control of the Northwest Passage and what it all means for Canada's future.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Christina Caron, economist, author, and former senior policy advisor to two Prime Ministers. Christina has served as a federal public service executive, think tank economist, and diplomat and now focuses on how environmental deterioration is reshaping our economy. Together they discuss her powerful argument that rising food prices are not just a temporary or local issue, but a global and systemic consequence of environmental damage. As climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution intensify, they erode productivity growth, strain agricultural yields, and ultimately make us all poorer.Christina explains how the loss of “natural capital” — our forests, soils, water, and ecosystems is undermining prosperity and driving the persistent rise in real food prices worldwide. They also explore what policy actions Canada must take to reverse this trajectory: investing in renewable energy, protecting biodiversity, and recognizing that environmental sustainability and economic growth are not opposites, they're inseparable.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Charles Burton, Senior Fellow at the Macdonald-Laurier Institute and one of Canada's foremost experts on China. A former diplomat at our embassy in Beijing and longtime professor at Brock University, Charles brings decades of experience studying China's political evolution, security strategy, and its growing influence on Western democracies. Together they discuss his upcoming book, "The Beaver and the Dragon: How China Outmaneuvered Canada's Diplomacy, Security, and Sovereignty", exploring how Canada's policies toward China have evolved — from early optimism during the reform era to today's growing concerns over espionage, human rights, and global power shifts.Charles shares vivid memories from his time in China during the Mao and Deng years, offers insight into the fate of democratic movements after Tiananmen Square, and reflects on the lessons Canada must learn to defend its independence and democratic institutions."The Beaver and the Dragon" launches October 21.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Michael Schuster, Ontario's first Real Estate Divorce Specialist (since 2011) and Certified Divorce Specialist (since 2019), for an insightful discussion on how divorce changes the rules of real estate. Michael shares lessons from his work helping couples sell their homes amid emotional and financial upheaval—explaining why divorce sales are not like ordinary listings. Together they explore the legal and psychological complexities of matrimonial home sales, from consent and sabotage to post-separation adjustments, and how to navigate them without losing money—or your sanity.He also shares advice from his book "Divorce and Selling Your Home", including how to choose the right professionals, when to stage (and when not to), and why neutrality and preparation are key to closing successfully.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Jim Stanford, economist and director of the Centre for Future Work, for a vital discussion on the future of Canada's auto industry amid rising U.S. tariffs and shifting global trade dynamics. Together they examine the latest moves by Stellantis and General Motors — from Jeep production moving to the US to GM's paused EV van line in Ingersoll — and what these developments mean for Canadian jobs, manufacturing, and sovereignty. Jim explains how Donald Trump's tariff strategy could unravel decades of integration under the Free Trade Agreements and the Auto Pact before that and why Canada must rethink its industrial policy to protect and grow our manufacturing base. Jim also shares his vision for a stronger, self-reliant industrial strategy — one that safeguards good jobs, embraces the EV transition, and positions Canada for long-term competitiveness.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian speaks with Amanda Christmann Larson, an American writer and humanitarian currently living in Ukraine, documenting the human side of war. Amanda shares her firsthand experiences from Kyiv and communities near the front lines, where she's gathering stories for her upcoming book about resilience, courage, and cultural survival amid Russia's invasion. Together they discuss the extraordinary spirit of the Ukrainian people, how creativity and community endure under siege, and why defending Ukraine is vital for the future of democracy and cultural identity. Amanda offers rare insight into everyday life under threat—schools built underground, families staying strong, and volunteers rebuilding what's been destroyed.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Philip MacKellar, analyst, portfolio manager, and General Manager of Contra the Heard Investment Newsletter (since 2023; with Contra since 2011). Together, they dig into their contrarian, value-oriented approach to U.S. and Canadian markets—how they hunt for unloved, undervalued names and sometimes step into M&A and other special situations, including bonds, preferreds, and converts. They cover the AI boom: opportunity, bubble risks, and why shorting hype can be hazardous, balance-sheet tells: cash, current ratio, debt, and avoiding dilution traps, forced selling and other contrarian entry points, ETFs: when they help, when they hurt, and holding 20–35 positions with multi-year horizons—no day trading, no fads.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Linda McQuaig, award-winning investigative journalist, Toronto Star columnist, and author of eight national bestsellers, to discuss her first novel, The Road to Goderich. Set against the backdrop of the 1837 Rebellion in Upper Canada, the novel follows a young Scottish woman, Calandra, whose journey of love, betrayal, and self-discovery unfolds amid the struggle against the undemocratic “Family Compact” elite. Linda and Brian explore how this often-forgotten uprising helped shape Canadian democracy—and how its themes still echo in our politics today. They also discuss her sharp critiques of PM Mark Carney's climate change and defence spending policies, her views on Canada's democratic evolution, and what inspired her to shift from nonfiction to historical fiction.

On tonight's episode of The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian begins this episode with Sherry Double, author, entrepreneur, and transformation coach. Together, they explore the power of reinvention: how to rebuild, reimagine, and redefine your life at any stage. Sherry shares her remarkable journey of starting over after profound personal and professional challenges from burnout and loss to surviving a life-threatening medical error. Brian concludes his show with an uplifting and empowering conversation with Pat Browne and Penelope Mathieson, co-hosts of the brand-new Sauga 960 AM show NEXT CHPTR CHATS, a show about reinventing life after 55, airing Mondays at 3 PM & 7 PM and Saturdays at 10 PM!

Tonight on the Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Heather Exner-Pirot. Dr. Heather Exner-Pirot, Executive Director of the Macdonald-Laurier Institute's Natural Resources, Energy and Environment Program, examines how excessive environmental regulation and bureaucratic lawfare constrain Canada's growth. She argues that well-meaning environmental policies now block investment, stall infrastructure, and deepen the housing and affordability crises. The discussion covers the Impact Assessment Act, Canada's stalled critical mineral strategy, and global energy security. Heather highlights Indigenous-led assessments as a path forward and warns that global climate policies can worsen energy poverty abroad.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Aled ab Iorwerth, Deputy Chief Economist at the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), for an in-depth discussion on the state of Canada's housing market. Together, they explore the surge in mortgage delinquencies and powers of sale, the decline in housing starts, and the pressures facing Toronto's condo market. Aled shares his insights on how rising interest rates, unemployment, and fiscal deficits are reshaping the market—and warns that capital leaving construction could trigger a boom-bust cycle in the years ahead. This conversation also looks forward: how to boost private investment, reduce development fees, and improve productivity to address Canada's housing supply shortage.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie hour, join Brian for a powerful and timely conversation with Vivian Bercovici, former Canadian Ambassador to Israel, as we discuss the extraordinary and emotional developments in the Middle East. Vivian shares her firsthand perspective on the release of 20 hostages held by Hamas, describing the profound mix of relief, grief, and resilience felt across Israel. We explore how President Trump's rapid diplomatic negotiations, led with Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, achieved the release within ten days — and what this means for future peace efforts.Together, they also examine Mark Carney's recognition of a Palestinian state, the contrasting strategies between Washington and Ottawa, and the broader implications for Canada's role in the region. Vivian offers a rare window into Israel's mood today — the celebration of freedom, the scars of captivity, and the enduring hope for lasting peace. Tune in for a candid discussion about rebuilding Gaza, the call for a “denazification-like process” to root out extremism, and the delicate balance of power involving Qatar, Turkey, and Egypt.

This Thanksgiving Monday at 6 PM on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian brings you a special conversation about one of the most important qualities we can cultivate: empathy.He interviews Dr. Anita Nowak, professor at McGill University, author, and leading voice on empathy in business, leadership, and life. Anita believes that “Empathy is humanity's superpower”—a force that not only strengthens our personal relationships, but also drives better workplaces, more compassionate politics, and healthier communities. As you sit down with family and friends this Thanksgiving, join us for an inspiring discussion about how empathy can bring us closer together.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, you can expect a double author showcase with acclaimed Canadian authors. First, Brian sits down with Aamir Hussain, whose debut novel "Under the Full and Crescent Moon" imagines a matriarchal Islamic city in the 8th and 9th centuries and explores the roles of women, religion, and freedom across Saudi and Canadian contexts. Together, they discuss female imams, the diversity of Islamic traditions, and how fiction can illuminate complex cultural and spiritual questions.Then, Brian welcomes Merilyn Simonds, Governor General's Award finalist and author of "Walking with Beth: Conversations with My Hundred-Year-Old Friend". Her book chronicles her friendship with Beth, a remarkable 105-year-old woman whose life embodies resilience, curiosity, and joy. Together we explore themes of aging, ageism, friendship, and living fully at every stage of life. Tune in for two rich, thought-provoking interviews that span centuries of ideas and the wisdom of long lives well lived.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Join Brian for a fascinating conversation with Carrie-Anne Mercer, seasoned marketing leader and executive advisor, as we dive into the future of artificial intelligence. Together, they explore how AI is transforming marketing—enhancing efficiency, scale, and personalization—while still relying on human creativity and discernment. Carrie-Anne shares insights from a recent global conference in Cambridge, UK, where experts from around the world gathered to discuss AI for good and inclusivity, with inspiring examples of companies using AI to serve underserved communities. They also discuss the ethics of AI, the risks of concentrated control in a few corporations, and the challenges it poses for education and society. Carrie-Anne offers an optimistic yet realistic perspective: AI won't replace human jobs but will evolve them, and with the right oversight, can become a force for positive change.Tune in to hear about AI's potential, its pitfalls, and why human judgment will always matter.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, join Brian for a powerful and eye-opening conversation with Paul Smetanin, President and CEO of the Canadian Centre for Economic Analysis. Paul introduces the concept of “Ponzinomics” — his term for how Canada has treated infrastructure spending as a political prop rather than a long-term economic necessity. He explains how decades of under-planning and short-term announcement politics have left our country worse off than Mexico when it comes to infrastructure certainty, costing us $600 billion in lost economic potential.Together they explore why housing starts are at a 30-year low and what this means for young Canadians, how infrastructure delays can erase up to $144 billion in potential benefits, and why housing in Ontario is uniquely taxed at 36% of its value. They even touch on what systemic changes from a national infrastructure plan to multi-year funding and transparent ledgers could turn things around. Don't miss this candid discussion on why Canada's infrastructure and housing crisis is a matter of intergenerational fairness and how we can start fixing it.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian is joined by Ron Butler, one of Canada's most outspoken mortgage brokers, for a hard-hitting conversation about the surge in power-of-sale and foreclosure listings across the Greater Toronto Area.Together They Explore: • Why power-of-sale listings have risen by 20% each month over the past four months,• How the collapse of the foreign student housing market has left many homeowners unable to carry their mortgages,• The growing impact of unemployment, rising property taxes, and vanishing private lending options on mortgage defaults,• What the slowdown in new residential construction means for housing supply,• And Ron's bold ideas for fixing affordability – from cutting development fees and taxes on new homes to opening land for much-needed housing.Ron doesn't pull punches. If you want to understand what's really happening in Ontario's housing and mortgage markets – and what it could mean for you – you won't want to miss this!

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Dan McCarthy and Murray Simser for a fascinating discussion on a question first raised during the 1988 federal election. In that year's leaders' debate, John Turner famously warned:“Once a country yields its economic levers, once a country yields its energy … once a country yields its agriculture … once a country opens itself to a subsidy war with the United States … then the political ability of this country to remain as an independent nation — that has gone forever, and that is the issue of this election.”They explore whether Turner was right — tracing Canada's trade history from the McDonald Royal Commission and the 1988 Free Trade election, through the promises and pitfalls of economic integration, to the challenges of dealing with President Trump's protectionist agenda. Dan and Murray share insights on how globalization has reshaped sovereignty, the missed opportunities for adjustment programs in the 1990s, and the ongoing question of how much sovereignty Canada can afford to give up in future trade deals.Their conversation also looked ahead: Should Canada pursue deeper integration with the U.S. through a security perimeter and labor mobility, or diversify trade with other global partners? And what does it mean for Canada's political independence when the U.S. increasingly views us as its “51st state”?

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Dr. Jacqueline Murray, PhD, FRHistS—University Professor Emerita (University of Guelph), Fellow of St. Michael's College, and 3M National Teaching Fellow—for a thought-provoking conversation on masculinity. Drawing on her expertise in medieval history and gender studies, Dr. Murray explores how concepts of manhood have evolved across centuries and why these debates remain urgent today.Together they examine the so-called “crisis of masculinity,” unpacking the pressures young men face as media portrayals, social expectations, and cultural stereotypes reinforce narrow ideals. Dr. Murray challenges the notion that masculinity has ever been singular, noting that even in the Middle Ages, honor, integrity, and provider roles varied across classes and communities—offering a richer, more nuanced view than today's headlines. They conclude this episode with a call to reimagine masculinity for the modern age—not around dominance or aggression, but around honor, moral compass, and self-worth. Dr. Murray argues society thrives when young men embrace diverse masculinities and when role models reflect integrity over bravado. It's an eye-opening exchange connecting lessons from history to the challenges of today.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Alex Letko. Alex Letko, Regional Manager for Central Canada at LetkoBrosseau and Portfolio Manager, analyzes markets, investment strategies, and the AI boom. He recalls the 1987 stock market crash, noting parallels with today as a few AI firms dominate valuations, similar to the dot-com bubble. He warns of challenges in infrastructure profitability but highlights the firm's emerging markets fund focused on unmet needs like water, clean energy, and healthcare. Alex sees Canada facing recession risks but benefiting from a relatively strong fiscal position among G7 nations. He predicts Canada may outpace U.S. growth by 2026, with opportunities in infrastructure, natural resources, defense, and high-tech.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Tony Irwin about Purpose Built Rental Properties and the housing crisis in the GTA. Tony Irwin, President and CEO of Rental Housing Canada and Federation of Rental Housing Providers of Ontario, discusses the challenges and opportunities in transitioning from condominiums to purposeful rental housing development. He explains that while the two types of housing may look similar to consumers, the economic models are fundamentally different, with condominiums benefiting from pre-sales for financing while purposeful rentals require significant upfront equity and may not be profitable for the first decade. Tony highlights that pre-construction condos were often sold as investments based on expected appreciation, while purpose-built rentals are sold as homes. We discuss the advantages of professional management in purpose-built rental buildings, emphasizing the creation of community and long-term resident satisfaction. He discusses the challenges in the housing market, emphasizing the need for government intervention to address declining building starts and permits. Tony highlights the importance of combining government action with factors like lower interest rates and economic confidence to stimulate development. He expressed concern about job losses in the industry and the long-term implications of not planning adequately for future housing demands.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Neil Seeman. Neil reflects on his front-page opinion piece about Charlie Kirk, calling him an intellectual rooted in a more civilized era, much like William F. Buckley. He notes that Kirk was unafraid to question his own beliefs, debate opponents, and resist the false comfort of consensus. Neil highlights Kirk's skill in challenging others with sharp yet cheerful inquiry, particularly engaging young people in dialogue. Like Buckley, Kirk combined ideological rigor with humor, able to poke fun at overly serious thinkers, including himself. Neil argues this tradition is fading in today's social media-driven discourse.

Tonight on the Brian Crombie  Radio Hour, Brian interviews Richard Lyall about his report from last week. This report is on the state of housing starts and sales across 34 municipalities in the Greater Golden Horseshoe, including the City of Toronto, is troubling and should set off the alarm bells for policymakers across all three levels of government.“Housing projects have been shelved and the industry has hit a wall,” Lyall said. “The outlook is bleak, and we are trending in the wrong direction. We need governments to take concrete action to lower the #tax burden and modernize the process to kick-start the industry. Our economy will be in dire straits if we do not act quickly.”Richard Lyall, President of RESCON, the Residential Construction Council of Ontario, is a prolific writer, speaker and commentator on what has and is going wrong with the housing sector in the GTA. Brian closes this episode with his ten point plan to address our housing crisis. 

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Kirsten Eastwood. Kirsten is the President of Dress for Success Toronto and leads a charity dedicated to empowering women through work attire, career development tools, and a strong support network. She highlights the role of clothing in balancing authenticity with professional expectations during interviews and at work. Dress for Success focuses on women facing systemic barriers, addressing high unemployment rates among young women aged 18-29 by building confidence and networking skills. Kirsten stresses LinkedIn, research, clear goals, and gratitude as key to effective networking. She shares Yodi's journey from persecution in South America to success at Legal Aid, inspiring the upcoming Beyond the Suit fundraiser on October 8.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Murat Croci. Murat is the co-founder and co-CEO of Ibex Biosciences and brings two decades of biotech leadership and five patents to advancing breakthrough treatments. Founded in 2015, Ibex is developing two transformative drugs: a single-dose malaria cure that blocks parasites from entering red blood cells, showing strong effectiveness in animal models, and an antibody drug conjugate targeting chemoresistant colorectal cancer. Using alpaca-based antibodies against CD147, this ADC achieves 100% efficacy in mouse models, eliminating tumors that typically recur in 35% of patients. The company focuses on colon cancer first, with potential expansion to melanoma and ovarian cancer. Brian closes this episode with some thoughts of his six year anniversary of the Brian Crombie Radio Hour. 

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Dominic Cardy.  Dominic is the leader of the Canadian Future Party and former New Brunswick Education Minister. He raises urgent concerns about Canada's immigration and defense priorities. Dominic warns that next year hundreds of thousands of temporary foreign workers may lose their legal status, stressing the need for better integration to avoid social tensions. He cautions that the asylum system risks collapse from unjustified claims, harming true refugees and eroding trust. On defense, Dominic argues that a global conflict is already unfolding with Russia, China, and allied forces escalating threats. He calls for Canada to boost defense spending, invest in modern technologies like drones, and reduce reliance on the U.S. for security.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Brian Iselin about the state of the war in Ukraine. Brian Iselin, the founder of the European Institute of Professional Intelligence Officers, discusses the war in Ukraine, Russian drone incidents, and technological advancements in war. Russia is facing significant military decline and is unlikely to sustain its current military efforts past 2026.Iselin details the high rates of troop and equipment losses suffered by Russia, noting that their replacement and production rates are insufficient to counteract the attrition. He also highlighted the severe strain on Russia's social and economic systems due to the war, including the overburdening of healthcare and social security systems. Iselin concludes that Ukraine's strategy of waiting out Russia may ultimately lead to the latter's collapse, though this could happen suddenly once certain thresholds are reached.Brian Iselin's expertise in intelligence and strategic matters, particularly regarding the war in Ukraine and Russia's military situation,  provides insights on various geopolitical topics including Western support for Ukraine, NATO cohesion, and the impact of sanctions on Russia's oil revenue. The conversation concludes with discussions about emerging technologies like AI-controlled fighter jets and non-lethal warfare tactics, along with analysis of political challenges in the European Parliament.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Beth Sturdevant about Charlie Kirk and a “firestorm” of vocal and aggressive comments her posts about him generated on her social media. She posted about Charlie Kirk and his reputation on social media and was surprised at friends that Un-friended her and the many positive but also many negative responses she received. She has historically been “progressive” but then she came out in support of Charlie Kirk. She wonders about our openness to different points of view. Beth is a spiritual healer and master Reiki practitioner who, through navigating the adversities of her own life's journey, and healing her inner warrior spirit, has found authentic purpose and joy in her life again, and made it her mission to help others do the same. Brian closes with his own thoughts on Charlie Kirk, his assassination, his positions and how he believes they need debate/discussion and to consider moderate positions.

Tonight on the Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Anna Paluzzi about Rewirement (her term for redefining yourself in retirement) and networking. Anna contributed a chapter to the bestselling book about networking: The Ripple Effect authored by David Tsubouchi and Marc Keeley. She held numerous senior positions at Metrolinx, Northern Telecom, Canadian Tire and board roles.