Brian Crombie Radio Hour

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. 

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Nic Marks about his new book: HAPPINESS IS A SERIOUS BUSINESS. Nic is a statistician, speaker, and author who shows that happiness isn't a feel-good extra—it's a powerful performance multiplier. His research reveals that happier employees are more engaged, more innovative, and 20–30% more productive. They also stay longer, with unhappy teams facing turnover rates up to three times higher.The combined effect of higher output and lower attrition means happier employees deliver over twice the value of those who are merely “OK”.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Kim Wright and Sabrina Nanji. A panel featuring Kim Wright of Wright Strategies and Sabrina Nanji of Queen's Park Observer analyzes the Ontario Liberal leadership review and Bonnie Crombie's resignation. Bonnie secured just 57% support, meeting the threshold to stay but falling well short of expectations. Wright argues that any result beginning with a five signaled weakness, pointing to Crombie's rocky third-ballot win, her late choice to run in Mississauga, campaign mistakes, and lack of a seat as major obstacles. Nanji emphasizes Bonnie's indecision on where to run, weak organization, and failure to win Mississauga seats, noting internal tensions and reports of a caucus revolt against her leadership.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Andrew Fox. Andrew is a foreign affairs expert and former British airborne army officer. He discusses the recent Jerusalem attacks, the UN, and the future of the Middle East. With extensive experience in Israel, Gaza, and Ukraine, he shares insights on modern warfare, disinformation, and the shifting dynamics of global conflict. His PhD research explores how technology and asymmetric strategies shape today's battles. Andrew warns that Western recognition of Palestine without clear frameworks risks emboldening Hamas and driving Israel to extremes, undermining peace efforts. He stresses the dangers of rising global anti-Semitism fueled by false genocide narratives and calls for stronger societal resilience.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Dan McCarthy and Murray Simser. Dan  and Murray highlight the alarming rise of youth unemployment in their article Generation At Risk: Youth Jobs And Canada's Economic Future. Statistics Canada reports this summer's job market for returning students is the 3rd worst since 1976, with unemployment for students reaching 18% and some youth groups nearing 25%. Only 1997 and the Covid year of 2020 were worse. Factors driving this crisis include a weak economy, Trump tariffs, manufacturing layoffs, competition from foreign workers, and the impact of AI on entry-level jobs. Murray stresses the government's response has been slow despite unprecedented levels of youth joblessness, while Dan notes programs like the Youth Employment Skills and Training Initiative fall far short of the scale required. With 920,000 young Canadians not engaged in education, training, or work, urgent action is needed. As Styx sang in Crystal Ball: “I wonder what tomorrow has in mind for me. Or am I even in its mind at all?” For today's youth, that question is more sobering than ever.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Dr. Thomas Verney, a clinical psychologist and author, about the complex crisis facing men today, emphasizing that while not all men are affected equally, many are struggling with identity issues and joblessness, particularly young men without formal education or specialized skills. Together they discuss the debate around toxic masculinity and the challenges men face in adapting to changing societal roles and the rise of right-wing politics among young men. Young men are struggling with identity, relationships, and societal value, with declining graduation rates and increased suicide rates among young men.Thomas speaks about the evolving definition of masculinity in a rapidly changing society, how societal changes, gender roles, and biological factors influence men's development and experiences, while examining the impact of toxic masculinity, incel culture, and the decline of traditional male roles in teaching and leadership. He concludes about the importance of active parenting, the need for more male role models, and the challenges of modern romantic relationships in the digital age.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Sabrina Nanji, founder of the Queens Park Observer newsletter, about her publication's success as a one-woman operation that provides a mix of credible analysis and gossip, attracting readers across the political spectrum. Their discussion covers Doug Ford's rising popularity in Ontario, his political strategies, and the upcoming Ontario Liberal Party convention where Bonnie Crombie's leadership is under review. The conversation concludes with an analysis of political dynamics and leadership possibilities within the Liberal party, including potential candidates and the challenges facing the opposition parties in Ontario.The Ontario Liberal Party convention this weekend will determine whether Bonnie Crombie remains party leader, with Sabrina reporting that delegates are split and Crombie needs 66% support to survive the leadership review. Crombie faced criticism for failing to win her own Mississauga riding despite significant PC opposition, including Patrick Brown's mother-in-law as the candidate, and the party's post-campaign report highlighted strategic mistakes including delayed riding selection and insufficient get-out-the-vote efforts in close races.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Dani DePetrillo of Right at HomeCanada about our coming tsunami of Seniors and how we will care for them. In the next ten years the number of Canadians over 80 will increase by 50%, in twenty years, it will double. This interview focuses on discussing home care services provided by Right at Home Canada, with Dani sharing her expertise as Chief Operating Officer and explaining how their organization supports seniors who wish to age in place through various care services.The discussion covers the challenges of supporting an aging population, including the combination of government funding, family support, and technology needed to meet increasing demand, while also addressing evolving family caregiving dynamics and changing perceptions of aging. The conversation concludes with a discussion of health monitoring technology and long-term care approaches, including personal experiences of care and the importance of creating welcoming environments for seniors.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Jack Siegel, a prominent lawyer in Toronto, who shares his experiences with Ken Dryden and provides a tribute to Ken Dryden who passed last week. Jack met Ken in 2004 when he became the Liberal Party candidate in his riding. Jack notes Ken's unique ability to connect with people, particularly children, and described chairing Ken's 2005-2006 election campaign. Jack discusses Ken's political career, highlighting his passion for childcare and his role in negotiating universal child care agreements, which were delayed by the NDP's non-confidence vote in 2005. Ken's career was also a topic covered, focusing on his achievements in hockey and later in politics. Jack even pointed to Ken Dryden's views on a progressive and successful future for Canada, emphasizing that social safety net expansion and economic success are not mutually exclusive. Based on several interviews with or about political leaders in the past several weeks, Brian closes with some thoughts about leadership in political parties and the Ontario Liberal Party leadership review this weekend with some questions for delegates. 

Tonight on the Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews George Smitherman about the Liberal Leadership review at the convention this weekend. Together they discuss leadership, organization and what it takes to win. George is one of Canada's most distinctive and impactful politicians in the past decades. He is a former Canadian politician and broadcaster. He represented the provincial riding of Toronto Centre in the Legislative Assembly of Ontario from 1999 to 2010, when he resigned to contest the mayoralty of Toronto in the 2010 municipal election. 

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Graham and Monika Burwise about relationships. The interview dives into the intersection of personal growth and relationships, revealing why so many people struggle to form lasting, fulfilling connections. They unpack the myths, fantasies, and misunderstandings that create conflict, co-dependency, and disappointment, and highlight how relationship dynamics reflect personal growth and self-mastery. From the mechanics of attraction and infatuation to the deeper work of building enduring intimacy, they provide insights and practical principles that guide individuals and couples toward healthier, more empowered partnerships. Along the way, they share some of the most profound, hard-earned wisdom they've uncovered — insights that not only transform relationships but also enhance overall life fulfillment. Graham and Monika, founders of the Global Awakening Institute, are world-renowned relationship and life mastery mentors recognized for their ability to spark profound change. With decades of mastery and lived experience, they've developed a groundbreaking approach that doesn't just improve relationships — it revolutionizes them. Known for cutting-edge insights and a no-nonsense approach, they help individuals and couples break destructive patterns, unlock deeper intimacy, and step into the next level of their personal power. Their work goes far beyond surface-level fixes — it creates lasting transformation that reshapes how you love, live, and lead.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Dan Donovan, Publisher and Editor of Ottawa Life Magazine. They discuss what Carney needs to do for his fall, and fast. Brian closes with his own seven point plan for the Carney government this fall. Dan Donovan is also a former political staffer, stand up comedian and an excellent writer. We discuss various concerns about Canada's current challenges, including rising violent crime, immigration policies, and housing affordability, while discussing the need for balanced law enforcement and better coordination between different levels of government. The conversation concludes with an analysis of the political landscape, including the dynamics between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre, and the challenges facing Canada's housing development and economic policies.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brianinterviews Elena Davlikanova and Sgt. Yevheniy Malik to discuss if Putin wants peace? Sgt. Yevheniy Malik is a veteran of Ukraine's 36th Marine Brigade and Elena Davlikanova is a senior fellow at the Sahaidachnyi Security Centre and the Centre for European Policy Analysis (CEPA).Elena covers recent Russian strikes on civilians, including a deadly missile and drone attack that killed 23 people, while Yevheniy explains Ukraine's strategy of targeting Russian oil refineries and railways to cripple Russia's economy. Together, they discuss the ongoing war, the need for robust Western support, and their concerns about Russian misinformation. Elena warns that Putin's goal is not peace but victory, regaining influence by dividing the world and forcing sanctions relief. She argues that without strong security guarantees and European protection of Ukraine's skies, Russia could escalate toward a wider European war by 2030.

Tonight on The Brian Crombie Hour, Brian interviews Jon Allen, a former Canadian ambassador to Israel 2006 to 2010. He discusses the two-state solution as the only viable option for peace between Israelis and Palestinians. Jon expresses hope that with proper leadership and compromise on long-standing issues, a two-state solution could still be achieved. He shares historical examples of seemingly intractable conflicts that were eventually resolved, including the Yom Kippur War, the Irish Troubles, and the end of apartheid in South Africa. He expresses optimism that peace between Israelis and Palestinians is possible, citing the example of post-World War II Europe as a precedent for reconciliation. Jon believed that eventually, the mothers of both Israelis and Palestinians would demand an end to the violence for the sake of their children's future.Jon provides a detailed analysis of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's political strategy and current situation. He describes Netanyahu as an effective but divisive leader who has never supported a two-state solution, and who is now prolonging the Gaza war for political reasons as he faces criminal charges and a commission of inquiry. Jon notes that Netanyahu's recent actions, including firing security officials and promoting conspiracy theories about a "deep state" opposing him, have damaged Israel's international standing.